bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
First transcriptome analysis of the venom glands of the scorpion Hottentotta zagrosensis (Scorpions: Buthidae) with focus on venom lipolysis activating peptides
Authors: Salabi Fatemeh , Jafari Hedieh , Mahdavinia Masoud , Azadnasab Reza , Shariati Saeedeh , Baghal Mahsa Lari , Tebianian Majid , Baradaran Masoumeh
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Scorpion venom is a rich source of biological active peptides and proteins. Transcriptome analysis of the venom gland provides detailed insights about peptide and protein venom components. Following the transcriptome analysis of different species in our previous studies, our research team has focused on the Hottentotta zagrosensis as one of the endemic scorpions of Iran to obtain information about its venom proteins, in order to develop biological research focusing on medicinal applications of scorpion venom components and antivenom production. To gain insights into the protein composition of this scorpion venom, we performed transcriptomic analysis.

Methods

Transcriptomic analysis of the venom gland of H. zagrosensis, prepared from the Khuzestan province, was performed through Illumina paired-end sequencing (RNA-Seq), Trinity de novo assembly, CD-Hit-EST clustering, and annotation of identified primary structures using bioinformatics approaches.

Results

Transcriptome analysis showed the presence of 96.4% of complete arthropod BUSCOs, indicating a high-quality assembly. From total of 45,795,108 paired-end 150 bp trimmed reads, the clustering step resulted in the generation of 101,180 de novo assembled transcripts with N50 size of 1,149 bp. 96,071 Unigenes and 131,235 transcripts had a significant similarity (E-value 1e-3) with known proteins from UniProt, Swissprot, Animal toxin annotation project, and the Pfam database. The results were validated using InterProScan. These mainly correspond to ion channel inhibitors, metalloproteinases, neurotoxins, protease inhibitors, protease activators, Cysteine-rich secretory proteins, phospholipase A enzymes, antimicrobial peptides, growth factors, lipolysis-activating peptides, hyaluronidase, and, phospholipase D. Our venom gland transcriptomic approach identified several biologically active peptides including five LVP1-alpha and LVP1-beta isoforms, which we named HzLVP1_alpha1, HzLVP1_alpha2, HzLVP1_alpha3, HzLVP1_beta1, and HzLVP1_beta and have extremely characterized here.

Discussion

Except for HzLVP1_beta1, all other identified LVP1s are predicted to be stable proteins (instability index <40). Moreover, all isoform of LVP1s alpha and beta subunits are thermostable, with the most stability for HzLVP1_alpha2 (aliphatic index = 71.38). HzLVP1_alpha2 has also the highest half-life. Three-dimensional structure of all identified proteins compacts with three disulfide bridges. The extra cysteine residue may allow the proteins to form a hetero- or homodimer. LVP1 subunits of H. zagrosensis potentially interact with adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL) and hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL), two key enzymes in regulation of lipolysis in adipocytes, suggesting pharmacological properties of these identified proteins.
Natural products: promising therapeutics for targeting regulatory immune cells in the tumor microenvironment
Authors: Song Peng , Song Fei , Shao Tingting , Wang Pengjuan , Li Rongkun , Chen Zhe-Sheng , Zhang Zhaofang , Xue Guozhong
Published: November 2024

Regulatory immune cells regulate immune responses through various mechanisms, affecting the occurrence, development, and therapeutic effects of tumors. In this article, we reviewed the important roles of regulatory immune cells, such as regulatory T cells (Tregs), regulatory B cells (Bregs), myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), regulatory dendritic cells (DCregs), and tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), in the tumor microenvironment (TME). The immunomodulatory effects of natural products, such as polysaccharides, polyphenols, glycosides, alkaloids, terpenoids, quinones, and other compounds, which affect the functions of regulatory immune cells through molecular signaling pathways, thereby enhancing the potential of the antitumor immune response, are discussed. These findings provide new ideas and possibilities for the application of natural products in tumor treatment, which can help enhance the effectiveness of tumor treatment and improve patient prognosis.
Tracing the historical foundations of infliximab in Crohn’s disease treatment: a cited reference analysis
Authors: Yeung Andy Wai Kan
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The use of infliximab to treat Crohn’s disease patients has been evaluated for decades. The current work aimed to identify the historical roots of this research topic.

Methods

The literature database Web of Science Core Collection was searched to identify relevant papers. Cited reference analysis on the identified literature set was performed using CRExplorer, a dedicated bibliometric software. The disruption index was computed with an automated routine described by Leydesdorff and Bornmann, which is freely available online. Based on data from citation count and reference list, the disruption index can range from −1 to +1, with −1 meaning a continuity from existing research and +1 meaning a disruption.

Results

This analysis successfully identified key references dealing with infliximab use on Crohn’s disease patients, such as the original report that introduced the Crohn’s Disease Activity Index (CDAI) in 1976, the first case series reporting a favourable outcome of infliximab infusion on 10 patients published in 1995, the first randomized controlled trial published in 1997, the ACCENT I and ACCENT II trials published in 1999 and 2002, and a couple of European consensus guidelines on the diagnosis and management of Crohn’s disease.

Conclusion

Cited reference analysis could reveal the historical origins of the use of infliximab in treating Crohn’s disease. Highly cited references included CDAI, important early clinical studies, and European consensus guidelines. The important cited references identified by the analysis provided solid foundation to support subsequent research.
Herbal formula xuling-jiangu improves bone metabolic balance in rats with ovariectomy-induced osteoporosis via the gut-bone axis
Authors: Chen Juan , Ng Szetuen , Xu Pengchao , Chen Sainan , Li Shengqiang , Chen Xuan , Xie Lihua , Ge Jirong
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The XuLing JianGu recipe (XLJGR) is an empirical traditional Chinese medicine formula used for the treatment of osteoporosis. This study aims to explore the effects of XLJGR on the intestinal microbiota composition and endogenous metabolites in ovariectomized (OVX) rats.

Methods

An OVX rat model was established to evaluate the intervention effects of XLJGR. The measured indicators included bone density, serum bone metabolism markers, and an analysis of the types and abundances of intestinal microbiota, along with changes in endogenous metabolites. Additionally, MC3T3-E1 cells were used to validate the differential metabolites.

Results

XLJGR significantly reduced the abundance of Bacteroides, Butyricicoccus, and other bacterial strains in the gut. KEGG metabolic pathway enrichment analysis showed that XLJGR intervention led to notable changes in pathways such as peptidoglycan biosynthesis, carbapenem biosynthesis, and vancomycin resistance. Moreover, XLJGR significantly upregulated key intestinal microbiota metabolites, including gabapentin(GAB), camphoric acid(CAA), and nonanedioic acid(AZA), thereby promoting the proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of MC3T3-E1 cells.

Discussion

This study highlights the potential biomedical applications of XLJGR in promoting bone health by positively affecting intestinal microbiota and metabolic characteristics. These findings suggest that XLJGR may serve as a viable alternative in the treatment of osteoporosis, warranting further exploration of its therapeutic mechanisms and clinical applications.
A sex-dependent role of Kv1.3 channels from macrophages in metabolic syndrome
Authors: Peraza Diego A. , Benito-Salamanca Lucía , Moreno-Estar Sara , Alonso Esperanza , López-López José R. , Pérez-Garcia M. Teresa , Cidad Pilar
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the foremost single cause of mortality and disability globally. Patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) have a higher incidence of CAD, and poorer prognosis. The low-grade inflammation associated to T2DM contributes to increased morbidity and worst outcomes after revascularization. Inflammatory signaling in the vasculature supports endothelial dysfunction, leukocyte infiltration, and macrophage activation to a metabolic disease (MMe) specific phenotype, which could contribute to the metabolic disorders and ascular damage in T2DM. We have previously found that Kv1.3 blockers inhibit the development of intimal hyperplasia, thereby preventing restenosis. This inhibition was enhanced in a mouse model of T2DM, where systemic Kv1.3 blockers administration also improve metabolic dysfunction by acting on unidentified cellular targets other than vascular smooth muscle. Here we characterize the MMe phenotype in our T2DM model with a focus on macrophage Kv1.3 channels, to explore their contribution to vascular disease and their potential role as targets to ameliorate T2DM vascular risk.

Methods and Results

Male and female BPH mice fed on high-fat diet (HFD) develop metabolic syndrome (MetS) and T2DM. mRNA levels of several K+ channels (KV1.3, KCa3.1, Kir2.1) and macrophage markers (TNFα, NOS2, CD36) were analyzed. The MMe phenotype associated with increased CD36 expression. Channel-specific fingerprinting highlights a gender-specific increase of KV1.3 mRNA fold change in LPS stimulated macrophages from HFD compared to standard diet (SD). KV1.3 functional expression was also significantly increased after LPS stimulation in female HFD macrophages compared to SD. Functional studies showed that macrophage's KV1.3 channels of BPH female mice did not contribute to phagocytosis or metabolic profile but were relevant in cell migration rate.

Conclusion

Altogether, our data suggest that by inhibiting macrophage infiltration, Kv1.3 blockers could contribute to disrupt the vicious cycle of inflammation and insulin resistance, offering a novel approach to prevent MetS, T2DM and its associated cardiovascular complications in females.
Overexpression of vacuolar H+-pyrophosphatase from a recretohalophyte Reaumuria trigyna enhances vegetative growth and salt tolerance in transgenic Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Li Ningning , Cui Yuzhu , Zhang Zijian , Wang Shuai , Sun Yaqing , Zhang Shaoying , Li Guolong
Published: November 2024

Reaumuria trigyna, a wild and endangered salt-secreting small shrub, is distributed in arid and semi-arid areas of Inner Mongolia, China. An H+-pyrophosphatase gene (RtVP1) was isolated from R. trigyna according to transcriptomic data, which encoded a plasma membrane and tonoplast-localized protein. RtVP1 was quickly upregulated by NaCl and exogenous abscisic acid treatment and rescued the sucrose deficiency sensitive phenotype of the AtVP1 mutant (avp1). Transgenic Arabidopsis overexpressing RtVP1 exhibited a higher leaf area, plant height, fresh weight, root length, and soluble carbohydrate accumulation compared to the wild type (WT) under normal conditions. RtVP1 overexpression increased the seed germination rate and decreased the reduction rate of fresh weight, root length, and chlorophyll content in transgenic plants under salt stress. Catalase enzyme activity, proline content, relative water content, and soluble sugar content were significantly increased in transgenic Arabidopsis under salt stresses, but the malondialdehyde content was dramatically decreased. More K+ and less Na+ were accumulated in transgenic Arabidopsis leaves, resulting in a relatively lower Na+/K+ ratio. In transgenic Arabidopsis roots, K+ was unchanged, but Na+ and the Na+/K+ ratios were reduced compared to those in WT. More Na+ and K+ were accumulated in the intracellular of transgenic yeast, and the Na+/K+ ratio was significantly reduced compared to the control. These results showed that R. trigyna RtVP1 promotes the vegetative growth of plants, mainly by regulating carbohydrate metabolism, and confers salt tolerance in transgenic Arabidopsis by maintaining Na+/K+ homeostasis and enhancing the antioxidant and osmotic regulatory capacity. These results indicated that RtVP1 can serve as an important candidate gene for genetic improvement of crop yield and salt tolerance.
Comparative transcriptomic and proteomic analyses of two salt-tolerant alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) genotypes: investigation of the mechanisms underlying tolerance to salt
Authors: Hang Jiahui , Song Ting , Zhang Ling , Hou Wenjun , Liu Xiaoxia , Ma Dongmei
Published: November 2024

Abiotic stressors such as salt stress restrict plant development and output, which lowers agricultural profitability. In this study, alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) varieties with different levels of salt tolerance were examined using high-throughput RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) and Tandem Mass Tags (TMT) technologies to study the reactions of the root systems to salt stress, from transcriptomics and proteomics perspectives. The varieties Atlantic (AT) and Zhongmu-1 (ZM-1) were selected and evaluated after 2 h and 6 h of treatment with 150 mM NaCl. The results showed that under salt stress for 2 h, 1810 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and 160 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) in AT were screened, while 9341 DEGs and 193 DEPs were screened in ZM-1. Under salt stress for 6 h, 7536 DEGs and 118 DEPs were screened in AT, while 11,754 DEGs and 190 DEPs were screened in ZM-1. Functional annotation and pathway enrichment analyses indicated that the DEGS and DEPs were mainly involved in the glutathione metabolism, biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, glycolysis/gluconeogenesis, carbon fixation in photosynthetic organisms, and photosynthesis pathways. A series of genes related to salt tolerance were also identified, including GSTL3 and GSTU3 of the GST gene family, PER5 and PER10, of the PER gene family, and proteins such as APR and COMT, which are involved in biosynthesis of secondary metabolites. This study provides insights into salt resistance mechanisms in plants, and the related genes and metabolic pathways identified may be helpful for alfalfa breeding in the future.
Coming out of isolation: impacts of COVID-19 on physical activity, diet, mental well-being, and sleep over time
Authors: Billings Joel , Kwesell Allison , Cosby Stephanie , Lin Shuyang
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic lockdown significantly disrupted daily routines and impacted physical activity, diet, mental well-being, and sleep. This mixed-methods study investigates these changes over three periods—pre-pandemic, pandemic onset, and one-year post-onset—to understand their causes and inform public health policy for improved resilience during future crises.

Methods

A mixed-methods study was conducted with 34 US participants who completed open-ended qualitative questions and quantitative assessments in May 2020 and May 2021. Participants were recruited via social media from 10 states with high COVID-19 cases. Quantitative data categorized health changes (positive, negative, or no change), while qualitative data were analyzed thematically to explore reasons for these changes and uncover interrelationships among health behaviors.

Results

Quantitative results showed that, during the pandemic onset, most participants experienced negative changes in diet, mental well-being, and sleep, while physical activity varied. By one-year post-onset, improvements were noted across all health pillars, with mental well-being and sleep showing the most significant positive changes. Thematic analysis of qualitative data revealed stress, anxiety, and personal motivations as key drivers of health behaviors. Participants’ narratives provided a deeper understanding of these shifts that a Likert-style survey alone could not capture, highlighting the interconnectedness of health pillars.

Discussion

The findings demonstrate the importance of addressing mental well-being to improve overall health resilience. Public health interventions should prioritize mental health and consider the interrelated nature of health behaviors. The mixed-methods approach combined quantitative trends with qualitative insights, offering a comprehensive understanding of why health changes occurred, providing actionable guidance for future public health policy.
Gender differences in the effects of urban environment on nighttime exercise behaviours: a qualitative study
Authors: Su Yuqin , Pan Xiaoli , Li Yike , Li Guanchong , Zhang Guodong
Published: November 2024

Objective

With the acceleration of urbanization, nighttime exercise behaviours have rapidly emerged. Existing research indicates a correlation between urban environments and physical activity; however, studies focusing specifically on nighttime are still insufficient, particularly regarding gender differences. This study aims to identify the key factors in urban environments that influence residents’ nighttime exercise behaviours and to explore the gender differences within these influences.

Methods

Purposeful sampling was employed to conduct semi-structured interviews with 30 residents who regularly engage in nighttime exercise. All transcribed interviews were analyzed using Colaizzi’s phenomenological data analysis method.

Results

The findings revealed that physical environment and environmental perception are the two primary factors influencing nighttime exercise behaviour. These factors are further divided into 10 specific sub-themes: lighting, green spaces, site facilities and layout, traffic coherence, entertainment facilities, smart sports equipment, sense of safety, convenience, pleasure, and sense of belonging.

Conclusion

Females demonstrate a heightened sensitivity to the perception of the physical environment, placing greater emphasis on the feelings and experiences it provides. Males, on the other hand, focus more on the direct impact of the physical environment, such as its specific effects on exercise performance. Future urban planning and public policy should give greater consideration to gender differences in the use of urban exercise facilities, ensuring that nighttime exercise environments meet the needs of residents of different genders. This approach will contribute to enhancing overall community vitality and improving residents’ health.
Chasing among older-aged gamblers: the role of mentalizing and psychological distress
Authors: Ciccarelli Maria , Pizzini Barbara , Cosenza Marina , D’Olimpio Francesca , Griffiths Mark D. , Nigro Giovanna
Published: November 2024

Background

Despite the increasing proportion of older-aged individuals suffering from problematic gambling, research on gambling among this specific age cohort is still in its infancy. Chasing is a pathognomonic feature of disordered gambling and is considered one of the key risk factors in the transition from recreational to disordered gambling. Despite the increased research on chasing over the past decade, no previous study has ever examined the psychological determinants of chasing behavior among old-aged gamblers. Given the importance of chasing in facilitating and maintaining problem gambling, and the paucity of research examining gambling among older individuals, the present study is the first to empirically investigate the joint role of chasing behavior, negative affectivity, and mentalizing among older-aged gamblers.

Methods

The sample comprised 116 older-aged gamblers who were administered the South Oaks Gambling Screen (SOGS), the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21) and the Reflective Functioning Questionnaire (RFQ-8) to assess gambling severity, psychological distress, and mentalizing, respectively. Participants also performed the ChasIT, a computerized task that assesses chasing behavior, in which participants were randomly assigned to three different experimental conditions: loss, control, and win.

Results

No effect of the experimental conditions of ChasIT on chasing behavior was observed. Regression analyses indicated that heightened levels of gambling severity and lower levels of certainty about mental states (i.e., hypermentalizing) predicted both the decision to chase and chasing frequency. Along with problem gambling and hypermentalizing, chasing frequency was also predicted by high levels of depression.

Conclusions

The present study demonstrated the association between disordered gambling, depression, and hypermentalizing in chasing behavior among older-aged gamblers. The findings make an important contribution to providing insight regarding variables that are associated with chasing among older-aged gamblers, one of the least represented populations of gamblers in the literature. The results suggest that specific training on mentalizing abilities could help gamblers to reflect on their own behaviors in terms of mental states, rather than following the impulse to gamble in order to ameliorate poor mood.
Development of personalized profiles of students with autism spectrum disorder for interactive interventions with robots to enhance language and social skills
Authors: Herrero-Martín Javier , Fonseca David , Caro-Via Selene , Canaleta Xavi
Published: November 2024

The inclusion of students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in mainstream education (primary and secondary, in the range of 4-5 to 8-10 years old) is a complex task that has long challenged both educators and health professionals. However, the correct use of digital technologies such as personalization settings and interaction with robots has clearly shown how these new technologies can benefit ASD students. However, it is essential to characterize the profile, problems, and needs of each student, since it is not possible to generalize an accessible approach for all users. The work presented shows the creation and validation, through pilot tests, of an instrument that outlines the main needs of a student with ASD, based on behavioral variables. In a later phase, instructional sequences will be designed and adapted through digital tablets and interaction with a robot to improve specific aspects identified in the initial profile. The results demonstrate the method’s ability to assess and prioritize profiles satisfactorily which helps create a design adjusted to each student. The first pilot tests have been well received by ASD students, who have shown increased interest in the contents and methods used in this approach. Motivation levels and engagement have also increased, and social interactions with their peers have improved.
The influence of policy advocacy and education on medical staff’s adaptation to diagnosis related groups payment reform in China: an analysis of the mediating effect of policy cognition
Authors: Ni Zhi-Ying , Zhang Bo-Kai , Song Lei , Zang Zhao-Yan , Yu Hong
Published: November 2024

Introduction

In recent years, China has been carrying out the Diagnosis Related Groups (DRGs) payment reform, which has an impact not only on payment methods and medical expenses, but also on the behaviors of medical staff. Some of these behaviors are unexpected by policymakers, such as turning away critically ill patients, disaggregating hospitalization costs, setting up disease groups with higher points, and so on. This phenomenon attracted the attention of some scholars, who put forward a few positive intervention measures, mainly including policy advocacy and system improvement. The scholars believed that the former was more feasible. However, there is a lack of research on the effects and influencing processes of these interventions. Therefore, this study aims to explore the influence of policy advocacy and education on medical staff’s adaptation to DRGs payment reform in China and the role of policy cognition in this process, in order to provide experiences for the smooth implementation and sustainable development of DRGs payment system.

Methods

A questionnaire survey was conducted among 650 medical staff in five large general hospitals in Zhejiang Province, China, to understand their participation and feedback on policy advocacy and education, their adaptation to the current DRGs payment reform, and their cognition of relevant policies. After descriptive statistical analysis, partial correlation analysis, multiple linear regression models and bias correction Bootstrap sampling method were used to analyze the mediating effect of policy cognition factors.

Results

All respondents had participated in organized collective policy advocacy and education activities in the past year, but the degree of satisfaction and recognition was not very high. 59.5 percent said their adaptation to the DRGs payment reform was average. Nearly half did not regularly pay attention to and participate in the management of the medical costs of patients with DRGs through compliance. And they had a low understanding of the specific rules of DRGs payment and did not form a high policy identity. The mediating effect values of policy cognition were 0.148, 0.152, 0.108, and 0.057, respectively, when the frequency and quality of policy advocacy and education influenced medical staff’s adaptive perception and adaptive behaviors.

Discussion

The organized collective policy advocacy and education can promote medical staff’s adaptation to DRGs payment reform by improving their policy cognition, and the action paths are diverse. Policymakers and hospital managers need pay attention to this phenomenon, and formulate demand-centered, value-oriented whole-process advocacy and education strategies while constantly improving the DRGs payment system. All of these provided a basis for further research and practice of positive intervention in DRGs payment reform.
Comparing the economic burden of disease by physical activity levels among persons with and without disabilities in the Republic of Korea
Authors: Lee SeungCheor , Oh Chang-Mo , Jung Young-il , Park So-Youn , Oh In-Hwan
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The World Health Organization recommends at least 150 min of physical activity per week for persons with and without disabilities. This study compared the differences in the economic burden of diseases between persons with and without disabilities based on their physical activity. What is known in the field is that physical activity is beneficial to health, but there is a disparity between persons without disabilities and persons with disabilities, and our research aims to increase physical activity among persons with disabilities.

Methods

Economic burden of disease includes service costs such as outpatient, hospitalization, and pharmaceutical expenses for disease treatment, and persons with disabilities are those who have received a disability classification legally registered by the Korean Ministry of Health and Welfare, and there are 15 types of disabilities. For exercise records, we calculated the cost in 2020 for people with exercise records in 2018 so that they can have at least 1 year of exercise records, as health checkups are available from January to December of the year. Physical activity attainment is defined as 150 min or more of physical activity per week based on World Health Organization guidelines.

Results

Calculating the economic burden of disease by physical activity for persons with and without disabilities, both experienced a difference in hospitalization costs owing to fewer hospital days with physical activity achievement, with the difference being greater for persons with disabilities. Regarding disability type, achievers showed a 41.1% difference in total costs for mental class disorders, 16.7% for external bodily function disorders, and 11.1% for internal organ disorders.

Discussion

Physical inactivity has a significant impact on the economic burden of persons with disabilities compared to persons without disabilities, with 11.8% fewer persons without disabilities who were physically active for 150 min or more per week compared to 21.4% fewer persons with disabilities. In terms of healthcare spending, exercise can help keep persons with disabilities healthy. Therefore, there is a need for exercise programs tailored to persons with disabilities to increase physical activity in line with World Health Organization recommendations to reduce health inequalities between persons with and without disabilities.
Exposure to ambient air pollutions and its association with adverse birth outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis of epidemiological studies
Authors: Desye Belay , Berihun Gete , Geto Abebe Kassa , Berhanu Leykun , Daba Chala
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Air pollution is a significant global public health concern. However, there is a lack of updated and comprehensive evidence regarding the association between exposure to ambient air pollution and adverse birth outcomes (preterm birth, low birth weight, and stillbirth). Furthermore, the existing evidence is highly inconsistent. Therefore, this study aims to estimate the overall association between ambient air pollution and adverse birth outcomes.

Methods

In this study, initially a total of 79,356 articles were identified. Finally, a total of 49 articles were included. We conducted compressive literature searches using various databases, including PubMed, Scientific Direct, HINARI, and Google Scholar. Data extraction was performed using Microsoft Excel, and the data were exported to STATA 17 software for analysis. We used the Joanna Briggs Institute’s quality appraisal tool to ensure the quality of the included studies. A random effects model was employed to estimate the pooled prevalence. Publication bias was assessed using funnel plots and Egger’s regression test.

Results

In this study, the pooled prevalence of at least one adverse birth outcome was 7.69% (95% CI: 6.70–8.69), with high heterogeneity (I2 = 100%, p-value < 0.001). In this meta-analysis, high pooled prevalence was found in preterm birth (6.36%), followed by low birth weights (5.07%) and stillbirth (0.61%). Exposure to PM2.5 (≤10 μg/m3) throughout the entire pregnancy, PM2.5 (≤10 μg/m3) in the first trimester, PM10 (>10 μg/m3) during the entire pregnancy, and O3 (≤10 μg/m3) during the entire pregnancy increased the risk of preterm birth by 4% (OR = 1.04, 95% CI: 1.03–1.05), 5% (OR = 1.05, 95% CI: 1.01–1.09), 49% (OR = 1.49, 95% CI: 1.41–1.56), and 5% (OR = 1.05, 95% CI: 1.04–1.07), respectively. For low birth weight, exposure to PM2.5 (≤10 μg/m3) and PM2.5 (>10 μg/m3) throughout the entire pregnancy was associated with an increased risk of 13% (OR = 1.13, 95% CI: 1.05–1.21) and 28% (OR = 1.28, 95% CI: 1.23–1.33), respectively.

Conclusion

This study highlighted a significant association between ambient air pollution and adverse birth outcomes. Therefore, it is crucial to implement a compressive public health intervention.

Systematic review registration

The review protocol was registered with the record ID of CRD42024578630.
Convolutional long short-term memory neural network for groundwater change prediction
Authors: Patra Sumriti Ranjan , Chu Hone-Jay
Published: November 2024

Forecasting groundwater changes is a crucial step towards effective water resource planning and sustainable management. Conventional models still demonstrated insufficient performance when aquifers have high spatio-temporal heterogeneity or inadequate availability of data in simulating groundwater behavior. In this regard, a spatio-temporal groundwater deep learning model is proposed to be applied for monthly groundwater prediction over the entire Choushui River Alluvial Fan in Central Taiwan. The combination of the Convolution Neural Network (CNN) and Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) known as Convolutional Long Short-Term Memory (CLSTM) Neural Network is proposed and investigated. Result showed that the monthly groundwater simulations from the proposed neural model were better reflective of the original observation data while producing significant improvements in comparison to only the CNN, LSTM as well as classical neural models. The study also explored the performance of the Masked CLSTM model which is designed to handle missing data by reconstructing incomplete spatio-temporal input images, enhancing groundwater forecasting through image inpainting. The findings indicated that the neural architecture can efficiently extract the relevant spatial features from the past incomplete information of hydraulic head observations under various masking scenarios while simultaneously handling the varying temporal dependencies over the entire study region. The proposed model showed strong reliability in reconstructing and simulating the spatial distribution of hydraulic heads for the following month, as evidenced by low RMSE values and high correlation coefficients when compared to observed data.
Construction of 2022 Qatar World Cup match result prediction model and analysis of performance indicators
Authors: Song Yingzhe , Sun Gang , Wu Chao , Pang Bo , Zhao Wuqi , Zhou Rui
Published: November 2024

This research investigates the influence of performance metrics on match outcomes and constructs a predictive model using data from the Qatar World Cup. Employing magnitude-based decision and an array of machine learning algorithms, such as Decision Trees, Logistic Regression, Support Vector Machines, AdaBoost, Random Forests, and Artificial Neural Network, we examined data from 59 matches, excluding extra time. Fourteen performance indicators were integrated into the model, with two types of match outcomes—winning and non-winning—serving as the output variables. The ANN model exhibited the highest predictive performance, achieving an accuracy of 75.42%, an AUC of 76.96%, a precision of 72.73%, a recall of 65.31%, a specificity of 77.03%, and an F1 score of 68.82%. SHAP analysis revealed that “On Target”, “Shooting Opportunity”, and “Ball Progressions” were the most influential features. These findings underscore the critical role of shooting accuracy and the creation of scoring opportunities in determining match outcomes. Consequently, this study developed an accurate model for predicting match outcomes and meticulously analyzed the match performance. Coaches should prioritize the sensitive indicators identified in this study during training and structure training sessions accordingly.
Analyzing the adoption of nutrition-sensitive carp-SIS polyculture technology: evidence from a case study in Bangladesh
Authors: Hossain Nusrat Zaitun , Grote Ulrike , Dubey Sourabh Kumar
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Small indigenous species (SIS) of fish are rich in micronutrients that are essential to combat the existing malnutrition in Bangladesh. However, their availability is constantly decreasing due to gradual environmental degradation making their availability irregular and hence expensive in the market. Integrating SIS with carps in homestead ponds is being promoted as a form of nutrition-sensitive aquaculture to enhance both production and consumption of these nutrient-rich species. Various improved pond management techniques (IPMTs) are suggested to boost the nutrition-sensitive carp-SIS polyculture.

Objectives

This study examines the trends and factors influencing the adoption of IPMTs using the sustainable livelihood framework (SLF) approach. We address the following three key questions: (i) What are the trends in production and consumption of fish, in particular SIS from homestead ponds? (ii) Have farm households adopted or disadopted IPMTs over time? (iii) What are the determinants of adoption and disadoption of IPMTs?

Methods

Based on primary data of 234 households from Barishal district from 2014 and 2022, we perform significance tests to compare project and non-project households in 2014 versus 2022 and apply fixed effects Poisson regression and fixed effects negative binomial regression models to identify household decisions to adopt the IPMTs.

Results and conclusion

Quantitative survey results indicate a significant increase in the production and consumption of SIS over time. In 2014, the project households exhibited adoption rates of 60% or more for various IPMTs such as stocking of fast-growing species, pre-stocking liming, pond dike construction, fertilizer application, stocking of high quality fish seeds, aquatic weed control, and turbidity management. However, by 2022, some of these IPMTs were disadopted by project households and only a few techniques, including providing sunlight exposure to ponds, pre-stocking liming, and supplementary feeding, were more widely used. Additionally, many non-project households also increased their adoption rates of IPMTs significantly. The fixed effects regression model shows that adoption is positively influenced by the number of household members participating in aquaculture, size of the pond, sole ownership of the pond and the number of years household has been involved in aquaculture. Follow-up activities such as monitoring and training of the project beneficiaries and government support are recommended to support long-term adoption of the IPMTs.
Interplay of circular RNAs in gastric cancer - a systematic review
Authors: Guha Dipanjan , Mondal Jit , Nandy Anirban , Biswas Sima , Bagchi Angshuman
Published: November 2024

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have gained prominence as important players in various biological processes such as gastric cancer (GC). Identification of several dysregulated circRNAs may serve as biomarkers for early diagnosis or as novel therapeutic targets. Predictive models can suggest potential new interactions and regulatory roles of circRNAs in GCs. Experimental validations of key interactions are being performed using in vitro models, confirming the significance of identified circRNA networks. The aim of this review is to highlight the important circRNAs associated with GC. On top of that an overview of the mechanistic details of the biogenesis and functionalities of the circRNAs are also presented. Furthermore, the potentialities of the circRNAs in the field of new drug discovery are deciphered.
Cytokine profile, differential somatic cell count, and oxidative status of Italian Mediterranean buffalo milk affected by the temperature–humidity index
Authors: Ciliberti Maria Giovanna , Santillo Antonella , Caroprese Mariangela , Albenzio Marzia
Published: November 2024

In the context of climate change, there has been an increased interest in improving management practices for animals genetically adapted to extreme environmental conditions, such as buffaloes. The temperature–humidity index (THI) is used to determine the severity of heat stress in livestock. This study aimed to evaluate the cytokine profile, oxidative staus, differential somatic cell count (DCC), and the surface expression and activity of myeloperoxidase (MPO) in the somatic cells (SCs) of buffalo. Milk samples (n = 216) were collected from the spring to summer season under three different THI classes (THI < 72; ≤72 THI < 76, and THI ≥ 76). The cytokine profile was determined using ELISA, and the expression of DSCC and MPO was determined by flow cytometry. MPO activity was performed on SC extracts using a specific ELISA kit. Oxidative status was determined by the antioxidant/oxidant balance combining the free radical scavenging activity levels, and reactive oxygen and nitrogenous species. The results on the cytokine profile showed that at the THI ≥ 76 the levels of both IL-10 and IFN-γ were highest. IL-1β secretion was lower at the THI < 72 than at the THI values ranging from ≤72 THI < 76. Higher levels of both TNF-α and IL-12 were registered in both THI < 72 and THI ≥ 76 classes. The level of IL-4 was higher in the THI ≥ 76 class than in the ≤72 to <76 range. Data on DCC showed a decrease in the percentage of macrophages and lymphocytes as the THI increased from the ≤72 to <76 range to THI ≥ 76. Furthermore, the highest percentage of polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMNLs) was registered in both ≤72 to <76 and THI ≥ 76 classes. The MPO activity and surface expression on SC were lower at a THI above 76, which could be associated with an absence of inflammation. A condition of oxidative imbalance was registered as demonstrated by the lower levels of antioxidant/oxidant balance along with increasing THI. Present data demonstrated that buffaloes were able to modulate the alteration of immune response activated by heat stress throughout a series of cross-linked mechanisms involving cytokine networks, different somatic cell distribution, and oxidative status.
Genetic and biological insights into Hydatigera taeniaeformis in invasive black rats from southern Chile
Authors: Alvarez Rojas Cristian A. , Bonacic Cristian , Salgado Rodrigo , Peters Lucia , Fredes Diego , Rubio André V. , Muñoz-Leal Sebastián , Oyarzún-Ruiz Pablo , Aguirre A. Alonso
Published: November 2024

Introduction

This study investigates the genetic variability of Hydatigera taeniaeformis in black rats (Rattus rattus), a common tapeworm that infects cats and rodents worldwide. Despite its widespread presence and zoonotic potential, little is known about the genetic diversity of this parasite in the Americas.

Methods

We conducted DNA barcoding analysis using mitochondrial cox1 gene sequences using samples collected from 171 invasive wild black rats, captured in the temperate rainforest of Southern Chile. We also included two adult parasites isolated from road killed Kodkods (Leopardus guigna), a small felid species native to the Americas.

Results

Our findings revealed only two haplotypes, suggesting low genetic variability in a parasite that arrived in the Americas with the Spanish colonization.

Discussion

These haplotypes are more closely related to parasite populations from Peru, Africa, Australia, and Europe, suggesting an origin linked to the Spanish colonization, possibly from North Africa via the Canary Islands. The study also analyzed infection rates, parasite size, and their correlation with host body size, age, and weight, revealing significant patterns. These results provide new insights into the biogeography and genetic diversity of H. taeniaeformis in a new geographical area, enhancing our understanding of its evolutionary history.
Effects of Inoculation of Thermotolerant Bacillus Strains on Lignocellulose Degradation
Authors: Wang Xiaomin , Gao Jiayuan , Ning Guohui , Zhang Hui , Duan Yajun , Li Jiahui , Wu Yajie , Qi Mingyue , Huang Yali , Yang Zhixin
Published: November 2024

Thise study investigated the effect of three lignocellulolytic thermophilic Bacillus strains (F11, Q1, and FP4) on lignocellulose degradation, enzymatic activities, and microbial community structure in composting. The lignin degradation rate reached 36% in the presence of the inoculant, the hemicellulose degradation rate ranged from 43% (F11) to 51% (Q1), and cellulose degradation rates reached 57% in F11 and in FP4, which were significantly higher than the control (CK). The inoculation treatment could explain 28% of the lignin degradation for all three strains. The contribution of FP4 to hemicellulose and cellulose degradation was 30% and 20%, respectively. Compared to CK, lignin peroxidase activity in the water extract of the compost had increased by 66~145% for inoculation treatments, and manganese peroxidase and laccase activity increased by 114% and 78% for Q1. The inoculation stimulated the growth of indigenous bacteria with stronger lignocellulolytic enzyme-producing ability; such shifts in microbial communities were most likely responsible for the improved lignocellulose degradation.
Genetic Characterization and Fruit Quality Analysis of New Mandarin Hybrids
Authors: Cristofani-Yaly Mariângela , Dezotti Ana Lúcia , Cavichioli Thaís Magni , Roverssi Fernanda , Novelli Valdenice Moreira , Bastianel Marinês
Published: November 2024

Mandarin fruits with good physicochemical quality are desired for the fresh fruit market. The ease of crosses among citrus taxa has been used to expand genetic variability and select new varieties for different fruit markets. With the aim of selecting new commercial varieties, eleven hybrids obtained from the cross between Murcott tangor and Ponkan mandarin were grafted on Rangpur lime rootstock and evaluated for genetic and phenotypical characteristics. It was observed that there are significant differences in the fruit shape, content, and organoleptic characteristics in juice and differential responses to Alternaria alternate, the causal agent of the Alternaria brown spot (ABS) disease. The phenotypic and molecular characterization showed two groups of hybrids, those that resemble Ponkan and others with characteristics closer to the parental Murcott. There are significant differences in the period of fruit maturation among the hybrids and their parents. Considering the parents stand out as the main commercial varieties in the Brazilian mandarin fresh fruit market, these new hybrids have great potential for commercial acceptance and could be an excellent option to extend the period of supply of mandarins. Genetic and phenotypical information will be fundamental for the registration and/or protection of new varieties, which are essential steps that precede the commercial release to the producer.
Transfer of the All-Stage Resistance Stripe Rust (Puccinia striifonnis f. sp. Tritici) Resistance Gene YrZH84 in Two Southwestern Chinese Wheat Cultivars
Authors: Huang Min , Yang Xue , Feng Xianli , Luo Xiaoqin , Chen Qilin , Yu Boxun , Chen Caihong , Huang Kebing , Yang Suizhuang
Published: November 2024

Wheat stripe rust is a fungal disease severely affecting wheat production. Breeding resistant cultivars is the most cost-effective and efficient way to control wheat stripe rust. YrZH84 is an all-stage resistance gene with good resistance to stripe rust. In this study, YrZH84 was introgressed from germplasm Lantian36 (LT36) into the two southwestern Chinese elite wheat cultivars Mianmai367 (MM367, carrying Yr10, Yr26), and Chuanmai104 (CM104, carrying Yr26), using marker-assisted selection. F1 seeds of the two cross-combinations were planted and self-crossed to develop the advanced generations in the field. A total of 397 introgression lines (ILs) were obtained in F6 and genotyped using molecular markers Xcfa2040, Xbarc32 (linked to YrZH84), Yr10 (linked to Yr10), We173, and Xbarc181 (linked to Yr26). The 397 ILs were also evaluated for resistance to stripe rust and agronomic traits, including plant height, number of tillers, spike length, thousand-grain weight, and spikelet number. Finally, 61 lines with appreciative agronomic traits and disease resistance were selected. Among these lines, 31 lines had stripe rust resistance gene YrZH84. These selected lines are expected to become new wheat varieties for their high resistance to stripe rust and excellent agronomic traits that will make important contributions to the control of stripe rust and wheat production.