bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiproxy provenance analyses in the Devonian Villavicencio Formation of the Mendoza Precordillera, Argentina: correlation and geotectonic implications for the SW Gondwana margin
Authors: WENGER FEDERICO D. , ARNOL JONATAN A. , URIZ NORBERTO J. , CINGOLANI CARLOS A. , ABRE PAULINA , BASEI MIGUEL A.S.
Published: September 2023

This work focuses on the sedimentary provenance of the Villavicencio Formation of the Mendoza Precordillera and integrates the information obtained with previous work on other coeval units of the Precordillera Central of San Juan province (Gualilán Group: Talacasto and Punta Negra formations) in western Argentina. Multiproxy provenance analyses are carried out from different applied methodologies (petrography, geochemistry, morphological, and cathodoluminescence studies of detrital zircon grains, and analysis of U-Pb and Lu-Hf isotopes). The Villavicencio Formation is mostly composed of pelites and very fine-grained psammites. The major components are quartz, both monocrystalline and polycrystalline, and metamorphic lithics that associate this unit with a recycled orogen. Regarding geochemistry, the Chemical Index of Alteration (CIA) values are similar to the Post-Archean Australian Shales (PAAS), indicating a null to incipient degree of weathering. The ratios between different trace elements and rare earth elements (REEs) suggest the felsic composition of the source area. Th/U ratios differ, but a secondary uranium enrichment is inferred. The morphological analysis of the zircon grains reveals their mainly plutonic origin. The integration of U-Pb data with Lu-Hf data shows a juvenile-mantle origin in which the populations are dominantly Mesoproterozoic and ɛHf of positive values (up to 12), indicating poor differentiation. The Villavicencio Formation would be the product of deltaic deposits in which its components are dominantly from the Western Pampean Sierras associated with the Grenville orogen, assuming exhumation and erosion of the Mesoproterozoic basement. The data support the hypothesis of equivalence and correlation with the Punta Negra Formation in the Devonian depocenters of the south-central region of the San Juan Precordillera.
A Comparative Analysis on Employee Training: Competency-based vs Traditional
Authors: MAUNSELL-TERRY James , TAŞKIN Nazım
Published: September 2023

The study examines competency-based and traditional based training programs, within the context of their effectiveness and impact on employee performance outcomes. Results found that employers have recognised the weakness of traditional training formats, with some placing a higher value on experience and proof of performance abilities, over academic and professional qualifications. The most prominent finding was that training formats must contain both traditional and competency-based elements. These two factors are in turn linked to directly impacting employee performance, and are suggested as being a more accurate longer term measure. The interviews revealed that employees consider that performance can be linked to and measured by a number of factors including productivity output, staff motivation, engagement, job satisfaction, retention, and customer satisfaction.
Modeling Gut Neuro-Epithelial Connections in a Novel Microfluidic Device
Authors: De Hoyos Manolo , Yu Xi , Gonzalez-Suarez Alan , Mercado-Perez Arnaldo , Krueger Eugene , Hernandez Jeric , Druliner Brooke , Linden David R. , Beyder Arthur , Chen Sisi , Fedyshyn Yaroslav , Revzin Alexander
Published: September 2023

Organs that face external environments, such as skin and gut, are lined by epithelia, which have two functions – to provide a semi-permeable barrier and to sense stimuli. The intestinal lumen is filled with diverse chemical and physical stimuli. Intestinal epithelial cells sense these stimuli and signal to enteric neurons which coordinate a range of physiologic processes required for normal digestive tract function. Yet, the neuro-epithelial connections between intestinal epithelial cells and enteric neurons remain poorly resolved, which leaves us with limited mechanistic understanding of their function. We describe the development of a two-compartment microfluidic device for modeling neuro-epithelial interactions, and apply it to form the gut’s neuro-epithelial connections. The device contains epithelial and neuronal compartments connected by microgrooves. The epithelial compartment was designed for cell seeding via injection and confinement of intestinal epithelial cells derived from human intestinal organoids. We demonstrated that organoids planarized effectively and retained epithelial phenotype for over a week. In the second chamber we dissociated and cultured intestinal myenteric neurons including intrinsic primary afferent neurons (IPANs) from transgenic mice that expressed the fluorescent protein tdTomato. IPANs extended projections into microgrooves, surrounded and frequently made contacts with epithelial cells. The density and directionality of neuronal projections were enhanced by the presence of epithelial cells in the adjacent compartment. Our microfluidic device represents a platform for dissecting structure and function of neuro-epithelial connections in the gut and other organs (skin, lung, bladder, and others) in health and disease.
Comparing Flipped Classroom with Traditional Instruction for Post-Partum Intra-Uterine Device Training Among Medical Students in a Ugandan Public University: A Quasi-experimental Study
Authors: Pebolo Pebalo Francis , Bongomin Felix , Awor Sylvia , Arwinyo Baifa , Ojara Sande , Opee Jimmyy , Jackline Ayikoru , Okot Jerom , Ssenuni Eric , Ouma Simple , Nakimuli Annettee
Published: September 2023

Introduction:
Available evidence suggests that traditional method of instructions might not be the best for skill development and advanced knowledge acquisition due to their non-interactive nature if compared to flipped classroom (FC). Yet, it remains unclear whether a FC using audio-visual aids outperforms traditional teaching methods for medical students in low-resource settings. Our study aimed to evaluate the preliminary effectiveness of the FC in teaching postpartum intrauterine device (PPIUD) knowledge and insertion skills to undergraduate medical students in clinical rotations.
Methods
A two-arm, quasi-experimental design was used. The FC group underwent a pre-recorded lecture and video on PPIUD insertion, followed by interactive sessions and procedural practice. The traditional group received an hour-long lecture and onsite skills demonstration, followed by skill practice. Paired t tests were used to determine knowledge and skills acquisition in each group and independent samples t tests was be used to compare groups. Stata version 17 and GraphPad Prism version 9 were used for analysis.
Results
A total of 67 students were included in the final analysis, 37 in the traditional group and 30 in the FC group. There was a significant improvement in post-test scores compared to pre-test scores in both groups p < 0.001. The mean post-test score was higher for FC compared to the traditional teaching methods group although, it was not statistically significant (p = 0.069). Certain categories of students performed better with FC, especially those who failed pre-tests p = 0.021), in bachelor or of medicine and bachelor of surgery (MBChB) year 3 class (p = 0.011), students who joined the university directly from advanced level certificate (p = 0.018) and aged younger than 25 years (p = 0.002). There was no statistically significant difference in the mean procedure performance score between the intervention and the traditional teaching methods (p = 0.634).
Conclusion
The FC had shown a positive impact on the knowledge and skills of medical students indicating its role in reproductive health training in resource-limited settings. Additionally, future studies could investigate how FC can combined with other teaching methods to create a blended learning approach that maximizes the benefits and enhanced learning.
MiR-1434 Regulates Abdominal Preadipocytes Differentiation and Adipogenesis by Targeting IGFBP2 in Chickens
Authors: Yang Xueqin , Yang Zhuliang , Sun Tiantian , Xiao Cong , Zeng Linghu , Zou Leqin , Li Shuxia , Zhang Zhen , Liao Qianhui , Chai Ruitang , Yang Xiurong
Published: September 2023

High-intensity selection has dramatically increased growth rate and daily weight gain in broilers, but the accompanying problem is the excessive deposition of abdominal fat. According to our previous transcriptome analysis, insulin-like growth factor binding protein 2 (IGFBP2) and miR-1434 were identified as involved in abdominal fat. In this study, we further investigated their function in the proliferation and differentiation of chicken preadipocytes. The results indicated that overexpression of IGFBP2 promoted the proliferation and differentiation of preadipocytes, while interference of IGFBP2 inhibited cell proliferation and lipogenic differentiation. The regulatory effect of miR-1434 on the proliferation and differentiation of preadipocytes was opposite to that of IGFBP2. Dual-luciferase reporter assay proved that miR-1434 directly binds to the 3'-untranslated region (3'UTR) of IGFBP2. As expected, the miR-1434 mimics eliminated the impact of the overexpression vector of IGFBP2 on preadipocytes. In brief, we revealed that miR-1434 promoted the proliferation and differentiation of preadipocytes by blocking IGFBP2expression, thus impacting deposition in broilers. These findings may provide a novel target for improving chicken meat quality.
Macrophage Infiltration in 3D Cancer Spheroids to Recapitulate the TME and Unveil Interactions within Cancer Cells and Macrophages to Modulate Chemotherapeutic drug efficacy
Authors: Singh Khushwant , Gautam Pramod K.
Published: September 2023

Background: Recapitulating the tumor microenvironment (TME) in vitro remains a major hurdle in cancer research. In recent years, there have been significant strides in this area, particularly with the emergence of 3D spheroids as a model system for drug screening and therapeutics development for solid tumors. However, incorporating macrophages into these spheroid cultures poses specific challenges due to the intricate interactions between macrophages and cancer cells.
Methods: To address this issue, in this study, we established a reproducible healthy multicellular 3D spheroid culture with macrophage infiltrates in order to mimic the TME and modulate the drug’s efficacy on cancer cells in the presence of macrophages.A 3D spheroid was established using the human cancer cell lines CAL33 and THP1 cell derived M0 macrophage were used as a source of macrophages. Cellular parameters including tumour metabolism, health, and mitochondrial mass were analysed in order to establish ideal conditions. To modulate the interaction of cancer cells with macrophage the ROS, NO2, and H2O2 levels, in addition to M1 and M2 macrophage phenotypic markers, were analyzed. To understand the crosstalk between cancer cells and macrophages for ECM degradation, HSP70, HIF1α and cysteine proteases were examined in spheroids using western blotting.
Results: The spheroids with macrophage infiltrates exhibited key features of solid tumors, including cellular heterogeneity, metabolic changes, nutrient gradients, ROS emission, and the interplay between HIF1α and HSP70 for upregulation of ECM degradation enzymes. Our results demonstrate that tumor cells exhibit a metabolic shift in the presence of macrophages. Additionally, we have observed a shift in the polarity of M0 macrophages towards tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) in response to cancer cells in spheroids. Results also demonstrate the involvement of macrophages in regulating HIF-1α, HSP70, and ECM degradation cysteine proteases enzymes.
Conclusions: This study has significant implications for cancer therapy as it sheds light on the intricate interaction between tumor cells and their surrounding macrophages. Additionally, our 3D spheroid model can aid in drug screening and enhance the predictive accuracy of preclinical studies. The strength of our study lies in the comprehensive characterization of the multicellular 3D spheroid model, which closely mimics the TME.
Ultra-fast photochemistry in the strong light-matter coupling regime
Authors: Groenhof Gerrit , Toppari Jari , Morozov Dmitry , Dutta Arpan , Tiainen Ville , Duarte Luis , Markesevic Nemanja Nemanja , Quresh Hassan
Published: September 2023

Strong coupling between molecules and confined light modes of optical cavities to form polaritons can alter photochemistry, but the origin of this effect remains largely unknown. While theoretical models suggest a suppression of photochemistry due to the formation of new polaritonic potential energy surfaces, many of these models do not account for the energetic disorder among the molecules, which is unavoidable at ambient conditions. Here, we combine experiments and simulations to show that for an ultra-fast photochemical reaction such thermal disorder prevents the modification of the potential energy surface and that suppression is due to radiative decay of the lossy cavity modes. We demonstrate that by increasing the coupling strength we can reduce such losses and enhance reactivity of the strongly coupled system, in contrast to the theoretical paradigm, which would predict stronger suppression. We also show that the excitation spectrum under strong coupling is a product of the excitation spectrum of the "bare" molecules and the absorption spectrum of the molecule-cavity system, suggesting that polaritons can act as gateways for channeling an excitation into a molecule, which then reacts "normally". Our results therefore imply that strong coupling provides a means to tune the action spectrum of a molecule, rather than to change the reaction.
FairMobi-Net: A Fairness-Aware Deep Learning Model for Urban Mobility Flow Generation
Authors: LIU Zhewei , Huang Lipai , Fan Chao , Mostafavi Ali
Published: September 2023

Generating realistic human flows across regions is essential for our understanding of urban structures and population activity patterns, enabling important applications in the fields of urban planning and management. However, a notable shortcoming of most existing mobility generation methodologies is neglect of prediction fairness, which can result in underestimation of mobility flows across regions with vulnerable population groups, potentially resulting in inequitable resource distribution and infrastructure development. To overcome this limitation, our study presents a novel, fairness-aware deep learning model, FairMobi-Net, for inter-region human flow prediction. The FairMobi-Net model uniquely incorporates fairness loss into the loss function and employs a hybrid approach, merging binary classification and numerical regression techniques for human flow prediction. We validate the FairMobi-Net model using comprehensive human mobility datasets from four U.S. cities, predicting human flow at the census-tract level. Our findings reveal that the FairMobi-Net model outperforms state-of-the-art models (such as the DeepGravity model) in producing more accurate and equitable human flow predictions across a variety of region pairs, regardless of regional income differences. The model maintains a high degree of accuracy consistently across diverse regions, addressing the previous fairness concern. Further analysis of feature importance elucidates the impact of physical distances and road network structures on human flows across regions. With fairness as its touchstone, the model and results provide researchers and practitioners across the fields of urban sciences, transportation engineering, and computing with an effective tool for accurate generation of human mobility flows across regions.
Pulmonary Manifestations and their Determinants in Long Covid Patients: A Retrospective Cohort Study after One Year Follow-Up, From Iran
Authors: Fallahi Mohammad Javad , Lankarani Kamran Bagheri , Honarvar Behnam , Jalalpour Amir Hossein , Shamsnia Seyed Ali , Peiravi Mina , Rafiee Fatemeh , Rad Neda Defaee , Zeraatiannejad Mastaneh , Bahadori Amir Reza
Published: September 2023

Background and aimPost-Covid-19 condition or long covid syndrome (LCS), including both pulmonary and extra-pulmonary manifestations, were reported in about 90% of covid-19 infected hospitalized patients. This study aims to determine pulmonary manifestations of LCS and its associated factors in hospitalized patients.MethodsThis retrospective cohort study was conducted on patients who were admitted due to Covid-19 in the referral hospital of Covid-19 in Shiraz, Iran. The list of patients with a history of hospital admission due to Covid-19 was provided by the deputy for curative affairs of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences (SUMS), Shiraz, Iran. Then, by systematic randomized sampling method, 300 patients were selected and invited to come to Motahari Clinic affiliated to SUMS, Shiraz, Iran. A general questionnaire including demographic and socioeconomic factors was filled out for every patient. We evaluated the patients in three stages: pre-hospital, hospital, and post-hospital. A Modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) questionnaire was also used for dyspnea assessment and pulmonary function test (PFT) was performed for examining lung function.Finding290 patients with a mean age of 53.23±13.4, and female to male ratio of 1.65, accepted our invitation and referred to the clinic. Of the participants, 115(39.7%) were previously diagnosed with diabetes mellitus (DM), cardiovascular disease (CVD), or obesity (BMI > 30). The mean length of hospital stay due to covid-19 was 8.78±1 days (median = six days) while 47(16.2%) had a history of admission to ICU. This study was conducted about one year after the patients were discharged from the hospital (mean=327±124.4 days, median = 306 days). Out of all, 176 (60%) had mMRC score≥1, including 66 (22.8%) with severe dyspnea. Furthermore, 147 (50.7%) had abnormal PFTs, including 123 (42.4%) with impaired TLco and 46 (15.8%) with a restrictive pattern of lung disease. In univariate analysis, patients who were admitted to the ICU (p=0.002) or who had received corticosteroids (p=0.024) during hospital admission showed milder dyspnea after one-year follow-up. Logistic regression revealed a reverse association between ICU admission and the severity of dyspnea (p=0.04).ConclusionAppropriate treatment and care during hospitalization and continued regular follow-up for at least one year after discharge is crucial to provide a significant enhancement of Covid-19 infected patient's overall prognosis. The Long-term pulmonic consequences of Covid-19 need special attention.
Enhancing the durability and antibacterial activity of glass ionomer restorative material enriched L-arginine and Nano-titanium for pit and fissure sealing
Authors: Elgamily Hanaa Mahmoud , Aboalazm Emad , Youssef Ahmed M.
Published: September 2023

Background
Powders of standard particle sizes do not enhance glass-ionomer cement (GIC); nonetheless, certain nanoparticles may provide noticeable strength improvements. Despite the bioavailability of fluoride release from GIC, The main reason GIC restorations still fail is secondary caries. This study aims to reinforce the mechanical properties and improve the antibacterial efficiency of conventional restorative GIC supplemented with 1% L-arginine (Arg) and 3% Titanium dioxide nanopowder (TiO2NPs) for pit and fissure sealing after enamel surface pre-treatment with acid etching and without mechanical preparation.
Methods
A study analyzed 100 extracted human third molars, divided into two groups based on fissure sealant application: Control group; conventional restorative Glass Ionomer Ionofil Plus (IP) (VOCO, GmbH, Cuxhaven, Germany) and Experiment group; Arg-TiO2 incorporating Glass Ionomer Ionofil Plus. Specimens were tested for enamel shear bond strength, microleakage, surface analysis, and fluoride ions release. Specimens were incubated with Streptococcus mutans (ATCC 25175), Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus (NRRL B-442), and Actinomyces viscous (ATCC 19246) for antibacterial evaluation using adherent/planktonic bacterial count test.
Results
The experimental Arg-TiO2 (IP) GIC group obtained a lower microleakage %, higher shear bond strength, and more constant fluoride released compared to the control (IP) GIC group (statistically significant results (P = 0.01, 0.002, and < 0.001 respectively). The adherent L. rhamnosus bacterial count had the highest count from different adherent bacterial in Arg-TiO2 (IP) GIC group (P < 0.001) as well as had a higher count compared to other adherent L. rhamnosus bacterial count in the control group (without GIC)and (IP) GIC group (P < 0.05). Moreover, the lack of adherent S. mutans bacterial count in Arg-TiO2 (IP) GIC compared to planktonic/ adherent S. mutans bacterial count in the control group and (IP) GIC group (P < 0.05).
Conclusion
The incorporation of 3%TiO2 NPs and 1% l-arginine in (IP) GIC, enhanced the mechanical properties of (IP) GIC with a more fluoride release and promising antimicrobial efficiency.
The secretor status of the blood group antigens in saliva and the risk of getting oral cancer: a systematic review
Authors: Walpola Thamodi , Jayawardhane Dilrukshi , Weerasekara Ishanka
Published: September 2023

​Background: Human ABO blood group type and the antigenic secretor status is hypothesized to cause oral diseases including oral cancer. Secretor status is the ability of individuals to secrete blood group antigens into body fluids. This study was aimed to evaluate the secretor status effect of ABO antigens of saliva in patients with oral cancers or oral potentially malignant disorders relative to healthy adults.
Methods: A systematic and comprehensive online search from inception to 28 April 2022 was carried out in Medline, Embase, PsycInfo and Emcare. The language was limited to English. Yielded records were screened by two independent reviewers at the title & abstract phase, and at full text screening. Studies investigating adults (≥18 years) with oral cancers or oral potentially malignant disorders compared to adults free of oral cancer were included to this study. Data were extracted according to a pre-identified inclusion and exclusion criteria. Methodological quality was assessed, and the findings were analyzed narratively. Meta-analyses were conducted to pool the odds of the non-secretor status of oral cancers and oral potentially malignant disorders compared to healthy adults.
Results: The search resulted a total of 34 studies from 3 databases. Nine duplicates were removed. During the title & abstract screening, 11 irrelevant studies were excluded. Twelve studies were screened during the full text screening, and 8 articles were eligible to be included in the final analysis. A pooled odds ratio (OR) of 3.80 (95%CI, 1.53 – 9.44) was estimated when pooled 1254 oral cancers and oral potentially malignant disorders patients compared to 666 healthy adults.
Discussion and Conclusion: The odds of being a non-secretor is approximately 3.8 times higher in patients with oral cancers and oral potentially malignant disorders compared to healthy adults. Lack of ABO blood group antigens in body fluids of non-secretors, are more exposed to exogenous antigens than secretors. The host-parasite interactions of secretors and non-secretors underlying the oral cancer and other diseases may evidence to support or refuse them. The relationship of ABO blood type with the risk of getting oral cancer is at an inconclusive state. The findings warrant use of non-secretor status as a non-expensive early screening test for oral cancers or oral potentially malignant disorders.
Achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions critical to limit climate tipping risks
Authors: Möller Tessa , Högner Annika (Ernest) , Schleussner Carl-Friedrich , Bien Samuel , Kitzmann Niklas , Lamboll Robin , Rogelj Joeri , Donges Jonathan , Rockström Johan , Wunderling Nico
Published: September 2023

Under current emission trajectories, at least temporarily overshooting the Paris global warming limit of 1.5 °C above pre-industrial levels is a distinct possibility. Permanently exceeding this limit would substantially increase the risks of triggering several climate tipping elements with associated high-end impacts on human societies and the Earth system. It is essential to assess this risk under emission pathways that temporarily overshoot 1.5 °C. Here, we investigate the tipping risks associated with a number of policy-relevant future emission scenarios, using a stylised Earth system model that comprises four interconnected core tipping elements. We find that tipping risks until 2300 increase by 5 % for every tenth of a degree above 1.5 °C if global warming levels do not return to 1.5 °C or lower by the end of this century. If overshoots above 1.5 °C are limited in both peak temperature and duration (return below 1.5 °C in 2100), tipping risks until 2300 can be kept below 3 %. We show that achieving and maintaining at least net-zero greenhouse gas emissions is paramount to minimise tipping risks on multi-century timescales. Our results underscore that stringent emission reductions in the current decade in line with the Paris Agreement 1.5 °C limit are critical for planetary stability.
Are you Ready? Students’ Hurricane Preparedness Behaviors and Plans
Authors: Abukhalaf Amer Hamad Issa , Okhai Ratna
Published: September 2023

As many studies show that college students are ill-prepared for hurricanes, it is critical to further study how to engage college students to be better prepared. Our study examined this by answering one main research question "What encourages college students to take hurricane preparedness action?" A quantitative approach was used in this study's data collection and analysis, and 578 students from five universities and community colleges in Florida participated in our study. We designed an online questionnaire based on three main protective behaviors (preparing an emergency supply kit, an evacuation plan, and a communication plan) and six behavioral constructs (threat possibility, threat severity, self-efficacy, response efficacy, subjective social norms, and sense of responsibility). Based on our multi-linear and logistic regression models, risk perception had a statistically insignificant impact on students’ intentions to take hurricane protective behaviors. Similarly, responsibility had a statistically insignificant (or significant but weak) on students’ intention in the behavioral models. However, efficacy and social norms had the strongest impact on students' intentions in all models. By addressing specific hurricane preparedness behaviors, our fills a research gap and engages US college campuses to better understand and plan their emergency management with consideration for their students’ preparedness behaviors.
Experiences of Delivering and Receiving Mental Healthcare in the Acute Hospital Setting: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Romeu Daniel , Guthrie Elspeth , Saraiva Sonia , Czoski-Murray Carolyn , Hewison Jenny , House Allan
Published: September 2023

Background
Recent investment in UK liaison psychiatry services has focused on expanding provision for acute and emergency referrals. Little is known about the experiences of users and providers of these services. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of users of acute liaison mental health services (LMHS) and those of NHS staff working within LMHS or referring to LMHS. A secondary aim was to explore the potential impact of a one-hour service access target on service delivery.
Methods
Cross-sectional qualitative study. Individual interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and interpreted using framework analysis.
Results
Service users reported mixed experiences of LMHS, with some reporting positive experiences and some reporting poor care. Most service users described the emergency department (ED) environment as extremely stressful and wished to be seen as quickly as possible. Staff described positive benefits of the one-hour access target but identified unintended consequences and trade-offs that affected other parts of the liaison service.
Conclusions
The assessment and treatment of people who attend ED with mental health problems needs to improve and particular attention should be given to the stressful nature of the ED environment for those who are extremely agitated or distressed.
Genome-wide characterization of SDR gene family and its potential role in seed dormancy of Brassica napus L
Authors: Zhang Fugui , Chen Tianhua , Liu Nian , Hou Xinzhe , Wang Ling , Cai Qing'ao , Li Rui , Qian Xingzhi , Xu Hong , Zhu Zonghe , Zheng Wenyin , Yu Yan , Zhou Kejin
Published: September 2023

Rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) with short or no dormancy period are easy to germinate before harvest (pre-harvest sprouting, PHS). PHS has seriously decreased seed weight and oil content of B. napus. short-chain dehydrogenase/ reductase (SDR) genes have been found to related to seed dormancy in rice and Arabidopsis by promoting ABA biosynthesis. In order to clarify whether SDR genes are the key factor of seed dormancy in B. napus, homology sequence blast, protein physicochemical properties, conserved motif, gene structure, cis-acting element, and gene expression analysis were conducted in present study. Results shown that 142 SDR genes, unevenly distributed on 19 chromosomes, has been identified in B. napus genome. Among them, four SDR clusters present in chromosome A04、A05、C03、C04 were also identified. These 142 SDR genes were divided into four subfamilies on phylogenetic tree. Members of the same subgroup have similar protein character, conserved motifs, gene structure, cis-acting elements and tissue expression profile. Specially, the expression levels of genes in subgroup A and D were gradually decreased, but greatly fluctuated in subgroup B with the development of seeds. However, the expression levels of three genes in subgroup C and four genes in group B were rapidly raised at the late stage of seed development (64 days after flowering). Mostly, we explored four seed dormancy related candidate genes which were significantly higher expressed in weak dormancy seeds than that in nondormancy seeds. These findings provide a key information for investigating the function of BnaSDR on seed dormancy in B. napus.
Ionospheric Disturbances at Low-latitude during Severe Geomagnetic Storm Events
Authors: Kenpankho Prasert , Pansong Chollada
Published: September 2023

In this paper, we investigated the characteristics of Total Electron Content (TEC) using Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) satellites at low-latitudes during geomagnetic storms, focusing on the severe geomagnetic storm events that occurred on March 24, 2023, and April 23–24, 2023. The GNSS receiver stations at low-latitude are situated in Bangkok, (13.729°N, 100.780°E) and Chumphon (10.724°N, 99.375°E), Thailand. The TEC data were collected from three sources: GNSS satellites receivers, International GNSS Service (IGS), and International Reference Ionosphere (IRI). We compared the GPS TEC, IGS TEC, and IRI TEC. Subsequently, we examined the correlation between the levels of geomagnetic storms and ionospheric TEC disturbances. The results showed that the geomagnetic storm levels correspond to ionospheric TEC disturbances. We found that during the occurrence of a geomagnetic storm, TEC values tend to continuously increase and then return to normal within a few days. During the storm events, TEC values were increased by approximately 10–35 percent over Bangkok and up to 75 percent over Chumphon. The correlation between the geomagnetic storms levels and TEC disturbances are found to be significantly associated with the intensity of geomagnetic storms. An increase in the intensity of strong geomagnetic storms, there are positive correlations with higher TEC values. However, during quiet periods, TEC maintains its normal levels without showing a decrease below the baseline value, indicating a negative correlation observed.
Multiomics provided insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying black-colored mantle in scallops
Authors: Wang Caihui , Wang Fukai , Chen Min , Zhu Peican , Song Junlin , Ning Junhao , Lu Xia , Wang Chunde , Liu Bo
Published: September 2023

Systematic development of genetic breeding should be based on a good understanding of good growth traits, e.g., color traits, which can greatly influence organismal function. Melanin greatly influences the physiological functions of organisms; however, such studies on scallops are scarce. In this study, we collected the black mantle tissues from Bohai Red scallops and sequenced the transcriptome and metabolome, with normal-colored (white) mantle tissues as control (three black and three normal). Our results revealed that the pigment component in the black mantle of scallops was indeed melanin. Based on the transcriptome data, 1314 differentially expressed genes were obtained and subjected to the Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis. The upregulated genes in the black mantle were mainly enriched in transition metal ion binding, hydrolytic enzyme activity, and copper ion binding. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis revealed that the up- and downregulated genes were enriched in different pathways, suggesting that the pathways for the formation of the black mantle were unique. Several candidate genes associated with black mantle formation in scallops were identified. Among them, the downregulation of MAO and GST genes and upregulation of CYP3A and PKA genes may have a positive effect on the formation of black mantle in scallops. The differentially expressed metabolites were mainly enriched in metabolism-related biological pathways. This suggested that the formation of black mantle in scallops may affect physiological functions related to metabolism in scallops. Therefore, this study revealed several candidate genes related to the formation of black mantle in scallops via multiomics and provided a theoretical basis for breeding scallops with black mantle with high economic value.
Exploring Knowledge, Attitude, and Intention towards Advance Care Planning, Advance Directive, and the Patient Self-Determination Act among Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Tsai Shang-Feng , Yeh Te-Feng , Chen Cheng-Hsu , Chang Ching-Yi , Yang Jia-Yi , Hsiao Ching-Ching , Hsu Shu-Chuan , Chen Shih-Yun , Lin Huan-Yi
Published: September 2023

Background:
Hemodialysis holds the highest incidence and prevalence rate in Taiwan globally. However, the implementation of advance care planning (ACP), advance directives (AD), and patient self-determination acts (PSDA) remains limited. Our objective was to examine the current status of ACP, AD and PSDA and explore potential opportunities for enhancement.
Methods:
We developed a novel questionnaire to assess individuals' knowledge, attitudes, and intentions regarding ACP, AD, and PSDA. We also collected baseline characteristics and additional inquiries for correlation analysis to identify potential influencing factors. Student's t-test and Analysis of Variance were employed to assess significance.
Results:
Initially, a cohort of 241 patients was initially considered for inclusion in this study. Subsequently, 135 patients agreed to participate in the questionnaire study, resulting in 129 valid questionnaires. Among these respondents, 76 were male (59.9%), and 53 were female (41.1%). Only 13.2% had signed AD. A significant portion (85.3%) indicated that they had not discussed their dialysis prognosis with healthcare providers. Additionally, a mere 14% engaged in conversations about life-threatening decisions. Ninety percent believed that healthcare providers had not furnished information about ACP, and only 30% had discussed such choices with their families. The findings revealed that the average standardized score for ACP and AD goals was 84.97, while the attitude towards PSDA received a standardized score of 69.94. The intention score stood at 69.52 in standardized terms. Potential candidates for ACP initiation included individuals aged 50 to 64, possessing at least a college education, being unmarried, and having no history of diabetes.
Conclusion
Awareness levels concerning ACP, AD, and PSAD remained notably constrained among patients undergoing hemodialysis. Nevertheless, a positive attitude prevailed, and a significant number of patients were open to signing AD. Nephrologists should engage in ACP from the earliest stages, and considering the characteristics mentioned earlier, initiation of the process could be focused on patients aged 50 to 64, with at least a college education, unmarried status, and no history of diabetes.
Decentralized triangular relative navigation of multiple UAVs based on relative range and inertial measurements
Authors: Alizad Meysam , Hadi Hadi
Published: September 2023

In this paper, a novel algorithm for cooperative relative navigation of multiple Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) is proposed based on relative range and inertial measurements. In this algorithm, a relative motion estimation model is established for each group of three UAVs that can form a triangle in space. Each group member estimates the relative position and heading angle of the other group members and shares the estimation results with the other group members. When members satisfy the triangle law among their estimated relative position vectors, they can estimate more accurately. After analyzing the observability of the presented model, the necessary conditions for observability are also given, which are less restrictive compared to previous methods. Then, the presented method is compared with the distributed extended Kalman method. The results of both methods are analyzed in the presence of noise, disturbances, and under the condition of disconnection between the members.
Efficacy of a Metacognitive Training Program in Amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment: A 6-Month Follow Up Randomized Controlled Trial.
Authors: Bampa Grigoria , Moraitou Despina , Metallidou Panagiota , Masoura Elvira , Papantoniou Georgia , Sofologi Maria , Kougioumtzis Georgios , Papatzikis Efthymios , Tsolaki Magdalini
Published: September 2023

This study was conducted in response to the increasing prevalence of AD dementia and the significant risk faced by individuals with amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment with multiple domains deficits (aMCI-md). Given the promising effects of MPTs, the primary aim of this study was to further explore their impact by assessing the maintenance of their benefits. Thus, 45 participants were randomly allocated in two groups: the experimental group (n = 22), that received the Metacognitive Training Program (MTP), and the control group (n = 23) that received the Cognitive Exercises Program (CEP). The training programs - the MTP and the CEP - included 10 individual sessions of one hour duration and took place once per week. To test efficacy of the MTP, cognitive and metacognitive outcomes were compared between two groups -Experimental and Control- at four distinct time points: before-after-3 months-6 months after intervention. Based on the study’s findings the positive effects of the MTP were evident over a six-month period. Specifically, already three months post-training, the CG began to show a decline in training-related gains. In contrast, the EG's performance consistently improved, highlighting the superior efficacy of the MTP. Gains attributed to the MTP were detected in cognitive measures: cognitive flexibility and immediate visual recall, as well as in metacognitive measures: metacognitive control, improved metacognitive beliefs of attention and increased use of cognitive strategies.
Study of Cutting Tool Wear on Flank and Rake Faces in CNC Machining of LM13 Al Alloy using PVD Coated and Uncoated Tools: SEM and EDX Investigation
Authors: Sanganagoudar Sahebagouda , Kohir Vishaldatta V
Published: September 2023

This research investigates cutting tool performance in machining LM13 aluminum alloy, focusing on rake face wear. Using SEM and EDX analysis, different PVD-coated and uncoated carbide tools are studied to determine the most effective tool. Results consistently show that the Hard Carbon (HC) coated tool outperforms others, with minimal wear and reduced Built-Up Edge (BUE) formation. HC coating prevents wear-related elements and maintains a clean cutting edge. Overall, the HC-coated tool enhances tool life, cutting efficiency, and surface finish in LM13 aluminum alloy machining, offering valuable insights for industries working with this material.
Silicon application enhances sugarcane growth by impairing the development of larval sugarcane borer
Authors: Sousa Amanda Cristina Guimarães , Pinto Ciro Pedro Guidotti , Santos Ana Letícia Zero dos , Fonseca Sandy Sousa , Camargo Mônica Sartori , Rossi Guilherme Duarte
Published: September 2023

Sugarcane borer, Diatraea saccharalis, is one of the main insect pests of sugarcane fields, and it has been mainly managed by the use of chemical or biological controls. Considering the benefits of Silicon (Si) fertilization against pests, it was assessed the development of sugarcane borer larvae and sugarcane growth with and without Si. A greenhouse experiment was conducted using a factorial design (2x2) with 10 repetitions. Two commercial sugarcane varieties were evaluated: SP80-3280 and IAC91-1099, which has, respectively, susceptibility, and intermediate resistance to D. saccharalis. Si was applied in soil in an equivalent rate of 800 kg of Si ha− 1. Before herbivory, Si increased stalk diameter and plant height in both varieties, and number of leaves and leaf width were only increased in IAC91-1099. After 20 days of herbivory, Si increased stalk diameter in both varieties and plant height in IAC91-1099, but decreased the number of leaves and leaf width in SP80-3280. Larval D. saccharalis showed a reduced weight and a greater index for mandible abrasion after feeding Si-treated plants independently of variety. No influence of Si-treated plants was found in immunological parameters of larvae (total number of hemocytes, cell viability, encapsulation capability, lysozyme active). The activity of phenol oxidase, an immunological and stress marker for insects, was greater in larval D. saccharalis fed with IAC 91-1099, independently of Si. In conclusion, Si application improved sugarcane growth of IAC91-1099 and impaired the development of larval D. saccharalis in both sugarcane varieties.
Boosting antitumor immunity via a tumor microenvironment-responsive transformable trifecta nanovaccine
Authors: Dong Heng , Li Qiang , Meng Dang , Tao Jun , Li Xiaoye , Xiu Weijun , Dai Zhuo , He Ao , Ding Meng , Zhang Yu , Wen Zhi-fa , Xiaodan Su , Elbourne Aaron , Bao Lei , Chen Lin , Mou Yongbin , Teng Zhaogang
Published: September 2023

In situ tumor vaccines (ISTVs) hold great potential in tumor immunotherapy, however, three major obstacles, including inadequate endogenous antigen uptake by dendritic cells (DCs), weak T-cell immune responses, and stubborn immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) still should be fully addressed. Herein, a trifecta nanovaccine (TriNV) with TME-responsive transformable ability is developed to tri-boost antitumor immunity. First, sufficient endogenous tumor-associated antigens (TAAs) were liberated in situ after immunogenic cell death induced by TriNV-based photoimmunotherapy. Under TME, soft-transformed TriNV improved the uptake of TAAs by DCs to enhance acquired immunity. Second, the self-adjuvating TriNV and the TME-responsive released Mn2+ synergistically promoted DC maturation and macrophage M1 polarization by augmenting the stimulator of interferon genes (STING) activation to further amplify T-cell immune responses. Moreover, the decomposition of MnO2 within the core of TriNV exhausted glutathione (GSH) and facilitated O2 release to alleviate hypoxia in TME, thereby overcoming the chemical obstacles of the TME to further mitigate immunosuppression. Thus, the TriNV remarkably eradicated primary tumors and inhibited distant metastasis, demonstrating great potential as a feasible and effective ISTV nanoplatform for combating poorly immunogenic solid tumors.
In Silico approach for the Identification of tRNA-derived Small Non-coding RNAs in SARS-CoV Infection
Authors: Ajmeriya Swati , Bharti Deepak Ramkumar , Kumar Amit , Singh Harpreet , Rana Shweta , Karmakar Subhradip
Published: September 2023

tsRNAs(tRNA derived small non-coding RNAs), including tRNA halves (tiRNAs), and tRNA fragments (tRFs) have been implicated in some viral infections like respiratory viral infections. However, their involvement in SARS-CoV infection is completely unknown. The objective of this study is to determine tsRNAs level in a mouse infected with wild-type, attenuated, and mock-infected SARS-CoV strains. Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) dataset at NCBI with accession ID GSE90624 was used for this study. After a count matrix formation of tRNAs, tRNA differential expression analysis was performed subsequently using DESeq2. tsRNAs were identified from the significantly expressed tRNAs. Differentially expressed tRNAs, followed by tsRNAs derived from each significant tRNAs at different conditions and time points between the two groups.; WT(SARS-CoV-MA15-WT) vs Mock and DE (SARS-CoV-MA15-ΔE) vs Mock were identified. We found significantly differentially expressed tRNAs at 2dpi but not at 4dpi. By quantifying tsRNAs from differentially expressed tRNAs in all the samples belonging to each condition (WT, DE, and Mock), tRFs(tRNA-derived RNA Fragments) were found to be higher in number compared to tiRNAs(tRNA-derived stress-induced RNAs) from tRNAs in all the samples belonging to the WT SARS-CoV strain, indicating non-random formation of tsRNAs, as well as possible involvement of tsRNAs in SARS-CoV viral infection.
PARP inhibitor and immune checkpoint inhibitor may have synergism efficacy in gallbladder cancer
Authors: Chen Yu , Fan Xudong , Lu Ruohuang , Zeng Shan , Gan Pingping
Published: September 2023

Background
Gallbladder cancer (GBC) is aggressive with poor prognosis. PARP inhibitors (PARPi) targets PARP enzymes, showing efficacy in BRCA-mutated patients. Immunotherapy, especially immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), has transformed cancer treatment. Yet, the combined impact of PARPi and ICIs in GBC is unclear.
Methods
We presented a groundbreaking case of a GBC patient with BRCA2 mutations receiving PARPi and ICIs combination therapy after failing multiple-line treatments. NGS-Seq identified BRCA gene mutations. To further investigate the potential mechanisms, we developed a PARP1-BRCA1-BRCA2 pathway related risk score (PBscore) system to evaluate the impact of PARPi on the tumor immune microenvironment via RNA-Seq data. Gene expression and functional analysis identified potential mechanisms associated with the PBscore. Experimental validation assessed the impact of the combination therapy on the tumor microenvironment using multiplexed immunofluorescence imaging and immunohistochemistry in BRCA gene WT/mutation patients.
Results
A BRCA2-mutated GBC patient achieved a remarkable 31-month response to the combination therapy of PARPi and ICIs. RNA-Seq analysis revealed the correlations between PBscore and the levels of immune checkpoints, tumor-infiltrating immune cells (TIICs) and its crucial role in the cancer-immunity cycle. Multiplexed immunofluorescence imaging validated the activation of the tumor microenvironment. Furthermore, as the drug resistance, we observed an upregulation of negative immune checkpoints such as CEACAM1, which indicate multiple ICIs may enhance the efficacy of the therapy.
Conclusion
Our study advances understanding of synergistic PARPi-ICI effects in GBC, offering a promising alternative for BRCA2-mutated patients. However, to solidify its clinical applicability, further validation with a large sample size is needed.