bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antigen clustering effect on immunogenicity in prefusion-stabilized spike-based COVID-19 vaccines
Authors: Matthews Melissa M. , Kim Tae Gyun , Kim Keon Young , Obata Fumiko , Shibata Satoshi , Shibata Noriko , Iha Higor Alves , Meshcheryakov Vladimir , Hsieh Tzung-Yang , Collins Mary , Tamai Miho , Sasaki Daiki , Fujii Jun , Ishikawa Hiroki , Wolf Matthias
Published: April 2024

Initial studies on the immunogenicity of SARS-CoV-2 (CoV-2) spike protein as a protein subunit vaccine suggested sub-optimal efficacy in mammals. Although protein engineering efforts have produced CoV-2 spike protein sequences with greatly improved immunogenicity, additional strategies for improving the immunogenicity of CoV-2 protein subunit vaccines are scaffolding and the use of adjuvants. Comparisons of the effectiveness of engineered protein-only and engineered protein-nanoparticles vaccines have been rare. To address this gap, we inoculated mice with two doses of either sequence-optimized trimeric spike protein or one of several sequence-optimized spike nanoparticles. We measured their immune response up to two months after the first dose. We also measured the immune response and protection against live virus in hamsters inoculated with either sequence-optimized trimeric spike protein or a liposome-based sequence-optimized spike nanoparticle. We found that in the presence of adjuvant, the antibody and neutralization titers elicited by spike-nanoparticles were not significantly greater than those elicited by spike-only in mice, even at doses as low as 0.1 µg/animal. Hamsters vaccinated with spike-only or spike-nanoparticles were equally protected from live virus one month after their first inoculation. These results indicate that sequence-optimized protein subunit vaccines in the form of individual prefusion-stabilized trimers can be as effective in improving immunogenicity as in scaffolded form.
RETRACTED: Geological and geomorphological characteristics of a crater lake breakout lahar at Akita-Yakeyama Volcano, NE Japan.
Authors: Minami Yusuke
Published: April 2024

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
GNPNAT1 promotes cancer cells metastasis through stabilization Slug in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: He Jinqi , Li Faxiang , Jing Zihan , Ren Xingmei , Jia Dexin , zeng Yuan , Yu Yan
Published: April 2024

Background
Lung cancer is a common malignant tumor with high morbidity and mortality rate. GNPNAT1 has been identified as a metastasis-associated gene in LUAD. However, the exact role and related mechanism of GNPNAT1 in regulating LUAD metastasis remain largely unknown.
Method
We analyzed the expression of GNPNAT1 in the TIMER2, GEPIA2 and GEO databases and confirmed the results by immunohistochemistry (IHC). The potential biological functions of GNPNAT1 in LUAD was investigated based on TCGA-LUAD database. The correlations between GNPNAT1 and cancer immune characteristics were analyzed via the ESTIMATE and CIBERSORT R package. The underlying mechanisms of altered GNPNAT1 expression on LUAD cell tumorigenesis, proliferation, migration, invasion, and metastasis were explored in vitro and in vivo.
Result
We demonstrated that GNPNAT1 expression was markedly increased in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) tissues and negatively correlated with the overall survival (OS) of patients. hsa − miR − 1−3p and hsa − miR − 26a − 5p were the upstream miRNA targets of GNPNAT1. GNPNAT1 was positively correlated with the infiltration levels of CD8 T cells, memory activated CD4 T cells, NK cells resting, Macrophages M0, Macrophages M1, Neutrophils, gamma delta T cells, Eosinophils, and was negatively correlated with memory resting CD4 T cells, regulatory T cells (Tregs), resting NK cells, Monocytes, resting dendritic cells, resting mast cells. GNPNAT1 knockdown significantly inhibited proliferation, migration, invasion, EMT, and metastasis of LUAD cell, while overexpression of GNPNAT1 revealed the opposite effects. Rescue assay showed that Slug knockdown reversed GNPNAT1-induced LUAD cells migration, invasion, and EMT. Mechanistically, GNPNAT1 promoted cancer cells metastasis via repressing ubiquitination degradation of Slug in LUAD.
Conclusion
These data indicated that GNPNAT1 was critical for proliferation, migration, invasion, EMT process, and metastasis of LUAD cells and may be a potential therapeutic target for LUAD.
The prognostic value of serum creatinine dynamics in neonates
Authors: Chisavu Flavia , Schiller Adalbert , Chisavu Lazar , Stroescu Ramona , Boia Marioara , Steflea Ruxandra , Gafencu Mihai
Published: April 2024

Background: Acute kidney injury (nAKI) is common in neonates with increased mortality and hospitalization. Less is known about the creatinine dynamics outside acute kidney injury and impact on survival in new-borns in the first week of life.
Methods: We performed an observational, retrospective, single-centre study on new-borns admitted to “Louis Turcanu” Emergency County Hospital for Children between 2014 and 2022. The cohort consisted in 1106 neonates with serum creatinine values recorded in the first day of life and at least another measurement between days 2 and 7. We evaluated the outcomes of ascending serum creatinine trend on mortality, hospital stay and chronic kidney disease development.
Results: 23.4% (259) babies had an ascending trend of serum creatinine andhad on day one higher urea levels, lower haemoglobin and thrombocytes, lower serum proteins and higher degrees of inflammation compared to the ones with a descending trend. A rising creatinine increased the risk of nAKI in the first seven days by 12.93 times and overall nAKI by 4.07 times. Ascending creatinine trend independently increased mortality in the entire cohort by 1.92 times and 4.65 times in the subgroup of patients without AKI. In the crude analysis, ascending creatinine trend increased the risk of chronic kidney disease by 8.74 times and in adjusted model, only nAKI was an independent risk factor (8.57 times).
Conclusions: Rising creatinine in the first week of life independently increased nAKI development and mortality. Even patients with small serum creatinine rises that did not reached nAKI presented higher mortality.
Relationship between sarcopenia indices and BMD variables in healthy community-dwelling older women
Authors: Jeon Yun Kyung , Kim Keunyoung
Published: April 2024

The objective of this study was to investigate the association between sarcopenia indices and bone mineral density (BMD) values using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and to examine the proper threshold of sarcopenia-related indices in healthy older women. Eighty-six community-dwelling healthy postmenopausal women aged over 50 (median 67; IQR 60-73) were enrolled. Body composition, including skeletal muscle index (SMI) and BMD values of the L-spine(LS) and femoral neck (FN) were evaluated using DXA. Hand-grip strength (HGS) and the speed of the 6-minute walk test (6 MWS) were used as sarcopenia indices to evaluate physical performance. HGS and 6MWS were significantly decreased in patients with osteopenia or osteoporosis and BMD of the FN. BMD values from the LS and FN were significantly correlated with HGS. The 6MWS, as a performance score, was significantly associated only with the BMD of the FN. In postmenopausal older women, muscle strength and gait speed can be the indices to estimate femoral neck BMD rather than lumbar BMD. Older women with low HGS and 6 MWS scores can be a red flag for musculoskeletal health, and more attention is required.
Spatial Distribution Characteristics and Influencing Factors of Chinese MAS Based on GIS
Authors: Yu Pengfei , Yang Xiaoming , Wu Wanyi , Guan Jianliang
Published: April 2024

To articulate the spatial distribution [1][2] idiosyncrasies of martial arts schools within the People's Republic of China, utilizing the capabilities of Geographic Information Systems (GIS 10.7), this investigation endeavors to examine a plethora of factors influencing such patterns. By harnessing the geographic latitude and longitude data for 492 martial arts schools across 31 provinces in mainland China as of Feb 2024, this study employs a suite of analytical tools including but not limited to nearest neighbor analysis, kernel density estimation, the disequilibrium index, spatial autocorrelation, and geographically weighted regression analysis within the ArcGIS environment, to graphically delineate the spatial distribution nuances of martial arts schools. The investigation draws upon variables such as martial arts boxings, wushu hometowns, demographic densities, educational attainment levels within the populace, and regional cultural influences to elucidate the spatial distribution idiosyncrasies of martial arts schools. The spatial analytical endeavor unveiled a Moran's I value of 0.172, accompanied by a Z-score of 1.75 and a P-value of 0.079, signifying an uneven and clustered distribution pattern predominantly concentrated in provinces such as Shandong, Henan, Hebei, Hunan, and Sichuan. The delineation of martial arts schools exhibited a prominent high-density core centered around Shandong, flanked by secondary high-density clusters with Hunan and Sichuan at their heart. Amongst the array of variables dissected to explain the spatial distribution traits, the explicative potency of "martial arts boxings", " wushu hometowns" and "population density" exhibited a descending trajectory, whilst "educational level of the populace" inversely correlated with the geographical dispersion of martial arts schools. The entrenched regional cultural ethos significantly impacts the spatial layout of martial arts institutions, endowing them with distinct regional characteristics.
St. Louis Enhancing Engagement and Retention in HIV/AIDS Care (STEER): a participatory intersectional needs assessment for intervention and implementation planning
Authors: Humphries Debbie , Marotta Phillip , Hu Yue , Wang Victor , Gross Greg , Rucker Darius , Jones Johnnie , Alam Faiad , Brown Tawnya , Carter Chelsey R. , Spiegelman Donna
Published: April 2024

Background

Missouri is one of seven priority states identified by the Ending the HIV Epidemic Initiative, and St. Louis contains almost half of the people living with HIV (PLWH) in Missouri. As St. Louis has a marked history of structural racism and economic inequities, we utilized the Intersectionality Based Policy Analysis (IBPA) framework to guide a participatory needs assessment for planning and program development.

Methods

The planning team included researchers, the lead implementer from our community partner, and two community representatives, and had biweekly 60-90 minute meetings for 18 months. The planning team discussed and approved all research materials, reviewed and interpreted results, and made decisions about outreach, recruitment, conduct of the needs assessment and development of the planned intervention. The needs assessment integrated information from existing data, (1) interviews with (a) PLWH (n=12), (b) community leaders (n=5), (c) clinical leaders (n=4), and (d) community health workers (CHWs) (n=3) and (e) CHW supervisors (n=3) who participated in a Boston University-led demonstration project on CHWs in the context of HIV and (2) focus groups (2 FG, 12 participants) with front line health workers such as peer specialists, health coaches and outreach workers. A rapid qualitative analysis approach was used for all interviews and focus groups.

Results

The IBPA was used to guide team discussions of team values, definition and framing of the problem, questions and topics in the key informant interviews, and implementation strategies. Applying the IBPA framework contributed to a focus on intersectional drivers of inequities in HIV services. The effective management of HIV faces significant challenges from high provider turnover, insufficient integration of CHWs into care teams, and organizational limitations in tailoring treatment plans. Increasing use of CHWs for HIV treatment and prevention also faces challenges. People living with HIV (PLWH) encounter multiple barriers such as stigma, lack of social support, co-morbidities, medication side effects and difficulties in meeting basic needs.

Conclusions

Addressing intersectional drivers of health inequities may require multi-level, structural approaches. We see the IBPA as a valuable tool for participatory planning while integrating community engagement principles in program and implementation design for improving HIV outcomes.
Machine learning constructs a diagnostic prediction model for calculous pyonephrosis
Authors: Yang Bin , Zhong Jiao , Yang Yalin , Xu Jin , Xu Jinming , Wan Chuanping , Geng Erkang , Liu Hua , Liu Jianhe
Published: April 2024

In order to provide decision-making support for the auxiliary diagnosis and individualized treatment of calculous pyonephrosis, the study aims to analyze the clinical features of the condition, investigate its risk factors, and develop a prediction model of the condition using machine learning techniques. A retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical data of 268 patients with calculous renal pelvic effusion who underwent ultrasonography-guided percutaneous renal puncture and drainage in our hospital during January 2018 to December 2022. The patients were included into two groups, one for pyonephrosis and the other for hydronephrosis. At a random ratio of 7:3, the research cohort was split into training and testing data sets. Single factor analysis was utilized to examine the 43 characteristics of the hydronephrosis group and the pyonephrosis group using the T test, Spearman rank correlation test and chi-square test. Disparities in the characteristic distributions between the two groups in the training and test sets were noted. The features were filtered using the minimal absolute value shrinkage and selection operator on the training set of data. Auxiliary diagnostic prediction models were established using the following five machine learning (ML) algorithms: random forest (RF), xtreme gradient boosting (XGBoost), support vector machines (SVM), gradient boosting decision trees (GBDT) and logistic regression (LR). The area under the curve (AUC) was used to compare the performance, and the best model was chosen. The decision curve was used to evaluate the clinical practicability of the models. The models with the greatest AUC in the training dataset were RF (1.000), followed by XGBoost (0.999), GBDT (0.977), and SVM (0.971). The lowest AUC was obtained by LR (0.938). With the greatest AUC in the test dataset going to GBDT (0.967), followed by LR (0.957), XGBoost (0.950), SVM (0.939) and RF (0.924). LR, GBDT and RF models had the highest accuracy were 0.873, followed by SVM, and the lowest was XGBoost. Out of the five models, the LR model had the best sensitivity and specificity is 0.923 and 0.887. The GBDT model had the highest AUC among the five models of calculous pyonephrosis developed using the ML, followed by the LR model. The LR model was considered be the best prediction model when combined with clinical operability. As it comes to diagnosing pyonephrosis, the LR model was more credible and had better prediction accuracy than common analysis approaches. Its nomogram can be used as an additional non-invasive diagnostic technique.
Assessing the causal relationship between CRP,IL-1α, IL-1β, and IL-6 levels and intervertebral discdegeneration: a two-sample Mendelianrandomization study
Authors: Yan Xin-an , Shen Erdong , Cui Aiyong , Zhou Fengjin , Zhuang Yan
Published: April 2024

Growing research has suggested an association between chronic inflammation and Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD),but whether there is a causal effect remains unknown. This study adopted two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) approachto explore the etiological role of chronic inflammation in IVDD risk. Here, summary statistics for C-reactive protein (CRP),interleukin (IL)-1α, IL-1β, IL-6 expression and IVDD were obtained from genome-wide association studies (GWAS) of Europeanancestry. MR analyses were conducted by using inverse variance weighted (IVW), Wald Ratio, weighted median, and MR-Eggermethod. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to assess the robustness of the results. The MR analyses suggested a lackof causal association of CRP, IL-6 , and IL-1α levels on IVDD (CRP-IVDD: odds ratio [OR] = 0.97, 95% confidence interval[CI] : 0.86-1.09, P = 0.583; IL-6-IVDD: OR =1.04, 95% CI: 0.86-1.27, P = 0.679; IL-1α-IVDD: OR=1.09, 95%CI : 1.00-1.18,P=0.058). However, there was a sign of a connection between genetically elevated IL-1β levels and a decreased IVDDincidence(OR=0.87, 95%CI: 0.77-0.99, P=0.03). Our findings suggest a connection between IL-1β levels and the risk of IVDD.However, due to the support of only one SNP, heterogeneity and pleiotropy tests cannot be performed, the specific underlyingmechanisms warrant further investigation.
Can patients with longstanding Bulimia Nervosa suffer from Severe and Enduring Eating Disorder? A qualitative study
Authors: Robinson Paul , Guidetti Giulia , Kasriel Jessica , Khawandanah Jomana , Hughes Maxine , Hachem Zeinab
Published: April 2024

Objectives: To interview a series of patients with bulimia nervosa of longstanding to establish their symptoms and examine the suggestion, using qualitative analysis, that the term “Severe and Enduring Bulimia Nervosa (SEED-BN)” might be appropriate and helpful.
Methods: 12 participants with Bulimia Nervosa, one male, were interviewed with the help of an interview guide. Interviews were recorded and transcribed. Transcripts were analysed using Thematic Analysis.
Results: participants with Bulimia Nervosa described serious problems in many realms, especially social, psychological, family and relationships.
Conclusions: Bulimia nervosa of long duration is associated with many serious symptoms. It seems likely that recognition of long standing bulimia nervosa as a severe and enduring eating disorder could encourage clinicians and families to pay attention to the wide variety of problems suffered by this group. Further research is required to examine this proposal. .
Validation of the English version of TOY8 Developmental Screening Tool: Examining Measurement Invariance Across Languages, Gender and Income Groups
Authors: Wo Su Woan , Alagappar Ponmalar , Yahya Amira Najiha , Woo Pei Jun
Published: April 2024

Background: National Health and Morbidity Survey in Malaysia (2022) revealed that there is a significant increase in developmental delay among young children. Early detection is required by using a developmental screening tool that is easy to access and cross-culturally effective. Thus, the TOY EIGHT developmental screening tool (TOY8) was developed, utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) technology and a standardized parent proxy questionnaire. The objective of this study is to examine the validity and reliability of the English TOY8 (based on existing validated Malay Toy8) and to examine measurement invariance across language versions, gender, and income groups.
Methods: TOY8 was designed and developed to screen the developmental aspects in children aged 3 to 5 years old in two languages: Malay and English, by an interdisciplinary expert panel drawing upon both national and international guidelines. Two samples of parents and their children were recruited: 1767 dyad to complete the English Toy8 and another 1724 dyad to complete the Malay Toy8.
Results: The CFA results indicate that the model structure of the English version of TOY8 matches that of the Malay version of TOY8. The split-half reliability coefficient indicated adequate to high reliability which is also consistent with the previous Malay version of TOY8. Our results showed that all configural and metric invariance model across groups showed good fit to the data demonstrating that a multiple-group CFA was appropriate. Lastly, scalar invariance was only achieved in certain domains across gender, not in the language version of income groups.
Conclusion: The English TOY8 is found to be a valid and reliable screening tool to identify developmental milestones of children aged 3-5 years old in Malaysia. In addition, configural and metric invariances across groups in all domains were established indicating the cross-cultural equivalent of the items; scalar invariance was established across genders in most of the domains of 3-5 years old. This implies that our study aligns with previous literature regarding child development, which indicates that there is a general similarity in gender and cross-cultural development domains in the first years of life but not for older children in term of language and socioemotional skills.
Double knots versus triple knots facia closure method during cesarean section; is there a difference in pain sensation or cosmetic satisfaction? A randomized controlled trial comparing two different surgical methods in terms of pain and cosmetic satisfaction
Authors: Baş Sevda , ADIGÜZEL Fikriye Işıl , HEJAZI Ghaith , NARIN Raziye
Published: April 2024

Background
This study aims to compare the effects of two different fascia closure techniques on cosmetic and pain outcomes after a cesarean section.
Methods
Patients planned for cesarean section were randomized into two groups. In Group I (double knots group), the edge of the fascia was identified with a Kocher clamp. A synthetic absorbable multifilament suture was used to close the fascia in a continuous fashion, starting from the opposite side up to the Kocher clamp. The knots were tied with the same single suture. In Group II (triple knots group), the edge of the fascia was fixed with the same suture material instead of the Kocher clamp. The fascia was closed similarly, starting from the opposite corner via the second loop. The loops from the first suture were tied to the second suture. Postoperative pain at and around the incision line was measured on the 1st, and 10th days postoperatively on the NRS (Numeric Rating Scale). Analgesic medication required during hospitalization was also recorded. Patient satisfaction with the final aesthetic results of the incision was assessed using a 10-point scale at the 1st and 3rd months postoperatively.
Results
A total of 711 patients were enrolled, of which 218 were randomized to each interventional group (109 patients in each of the two groups). There was no significant difference in pain scores between the groups on the 1st and the 10th postoperative days (p > 0.05). There were significant differences in nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and paracetamol use between groups during the post-cesarean hospitalization. Regardless of the type of drug, patients in Group I required higher doses of pain medication than those in Group II, with median doses of NSAIDs of 3(0–5) vs. 2(0–4) and median doses of paracetamol of 4(1–7) vs. 2(0–6), respectively (p < 0.001). Group II had significantly higher aesthetic satisfaction scores than Group I in both measurements, with a median score of 9(4–10) vs. 8(2–10) at the end of the first month and 10 (5–10) vs. 9(3–10) at the end of the third month (p = 0.03,0.02, respectively).
Conclusion
Compared to double knots, fascia closure with the triple knot closure method is statistically associated with a higher aesthetic satisfaction score and less need for painkillers.
Transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses of the response of sainfoin (Onobrychis viciifolia) seedings to low-temperature stress
Authors: Cheng Jiao , Wang kun , Yao Yuheng , Wu Shiwen , Nan Lili
Published: April 2024

Sainfoin (Onobrychis viciifolia) is a valuable native legume forage in northwest China and is commonly used as fodder for livestock. However, low temperatures (LW) not only affect the yield and quality of sainfoin but also its geographical distribution. The leaves of the cold-tolerant new line of P4 and the cold-sensitive material of 13709 were collected after low temperature (4℃) treatment to evaluate their molecular regulatory mechanisms during low temperature via integrative analyses of their transcriptomes and metabolomes. A comprehensive analysis was conducted, including the detection of 6619 metabolites and annotation of 6939 genes using UPLC-MS/MS analysis and the IIIumina HisSeq system. The metabolomics analysis revealed 26 common differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs) in the cold-tolerant and cold-sensitive sainfoin at different comparisons, these metabolites are mainly divided into lipids and lipid-like molecules, and phenylpropanoids and polyketides. Transcriptome analysis identified 1045, 1412, 5010, and 3119 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in different comparisons at the same time points. By integrating the transcriptomic and metabolomic datasets, it was observed that several DAMs were closely associated with DEGs. Functional enrichment analysis of DAMs and associated DEGs highlighted their involvement in anthocyanin biosynthesis and amino acid metabolism. Six candidate genes from the above pathways were selected for controlling the adaptation to LW stress. These findings provide valuable insights into the metabolic regulation of sainfoin under LW stress and offer guidance for improving its cold resistance and selecting cold-tolerant varieties.
Dual Impacts of Urbanization and Precipitation on Subsidence in Chongqing Revealed by SBAS-InSAR
Authors: Zhang Jinlai , Tao Yuxiang , Kou Pinglang , Jin Zhao , Huang Yijian , Cui Jinhu , Liang Wenli , Liu Rui
Published: April 2024

Rapid urbanization in Southwest China has exacerbated ground subsidence, imposing severe threats to infrastructure and the environment. However, an understanding of the intricate multi-factorial mechanisms inducing urban subsidence remains inadequate. This study harnesses 44 Sentinel-1A images and InSAR to gauge spaciotemporal patterns of urbanized subsidence in Chongqing from 2021–2022. Results reveal subsidence up to 8 mm/yr across 26 km2, with hotspots near subway lines, construction sites, and agricultural regions. Subsidence along metro lines likely stems from excavation and vibrations during operation. The proliferation of high-rise buildings has sharply increased loading, accelerating consolidation and deformation. Agricultural land experiences substantial subsidence due to groundwater extraction. Moreover, precipitation demonstrates a negative correlation with subsidence. Heavy rainfall during spring and summer replenishes soil moisture, alleviating consolidation. Whereas reduced precipitation in fall and winter diminishes support from bedrock, aggravating subsidence. These findings underscore anthropogenic activities as primary drivers of urban subsidence. Monitoring infrastructure and minimizing land conversion is critical for mitigation. This study demonstrates InSAR's prowess in unveiling subsidence mechanisms, guiding sustainable urban development.
Tuning LLaMA Model with Mental Disorders Knowledge
Authors: Zhao Xiujie , Gao Yu , Zhang Yimeng
Published: April 2024

Large Language Models (LLMs) have shown its strong emergent ability in many general domain and can achieve good results in natural language processing (NLP) tasks. However, LLMs have not yet shown promising ability in the medical field, especially in the diagnosis of mental disorders, due to the protection of patients' private information and the limitation of psychological terminology. To this end, we collected nearly 7000 real medical records of various mental disorders from a specialized hospital and used them as instruction after data cleansing and manual proofreading for psychological field. We proposed the model named “ZhiXin”, a LLaMA-based model that has been fine-tuned with our own instruction. The experimental results show that our model outperforms the state-of-the-art approaches in terms of mental disorders diagnosis. In the meanwhile, our model also ensures the Safety, Usability and Smoothness of the response which is closer to the answer of a psychiatrist during the diagnosis of mental disorders. Thus ZinXin model can help patients and families with intelligent assisted diagnosis and reduce the workload of psychologists.
Preschool Teachers Attitude Towards Inclusive Education for Students With Autism Spectrum Disorders in Public Schools, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 2024. Multicenter Cross Sectional Study
Authors: TSEGAYE MIZAN , MENBERE FASIL , GODIE YOHANNES , BIRHANU DIRES
Published: April 2024

Background
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder primarily impacting social communication and behavior. The prevalence of ASD has been rapidly increasing, leading to a corresponding rise in the number of children with ASD attending mainstream schools. Preschool and primary school teachers have a vital role in identifying and supporting these children. However, the extent of teachers' Attitude towards including children with ASD in their classrooms remains uncertain.
Objective
The aim of this study was to evaluate the attitude towards including children with autism spectrum disorders in their classrooms, and associated factors among preschool and primary school teachers in public schools in Addis Ababa.
Methods and Materials:
Data from preschool and primary school teachers were collected using a self-administered questionnaire between September 2023 and December 2023. The collected data were analyzed utilizing SPSS version 27. Descriptive statistics were employed to summarize the findings, while bivariate binary logistic regression was utilized to examine associations between variables.
Results
The study findings revealed that only 35.5% of teachers had adequate knowledge, and the mean attitude score was 3.4, indicating a slight positive inclination towards inclusive education. Teachers between the ages of 20 and 25 had 90% lower knowledge compared to those above 40 years (AOR = 0.1, 95% CI = 0.48–0.7) with a p-value of 0.014. Furthermore, teachers with a positive attitude towards including students in regular classes were 72% more likely to have adequate knowledge (AOR = 0.28, 95% CI = 0.1–0.6) with a p-value of < 0.001. Finally, teachers whose source of knowledge about ASD did not come from surrounding people were 2.5 times more likely to have a positive attitude (AOR = 2.5, 95% CI = 1–6).
Conclusion and recommendation
The findings of this study indicate teachers displayed a generally positive attitude towards ASD. This highlights the need for increased emphasis on educational interventions aimed at enhancing attitudes towards ASD further.
Synthesis, evaluation of mechanical properties of chitosan-PVA nanofibers scaffold properties with decellularized periodontal tissue
Authors: Rzazadeh Fahimeh , Alizadeh Ali Akbar , Shirvani Fatemeh , Alavi Omid , Alipour Hamed , rezazadeh Hojat , Khorami Elham Tayebi , Tabesh Amir
Published: April 2024

Aims: This study was performed to fabricate and evaluate the mechanical and cellular properties of PVA-Chitosan scaffold with and without decellularized tissue for its application in tissue engineering.
Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, periodontal ligament tissue from human Wisdom Teeth were extracted. Three groups of scaffolds were fabricated by electrospining method: PVA-Chitosan scaffold, PVA-Chitosan scaffold with 0.5 % decellularized tissue and PVA-Chitosan scaffold with 1 % decellularized tissue (dECM). Then, physical evaluation (water uptake test, weight loss test, tensile test was conducted. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was done for evaluating surface characteristics and morphology. Moreover, in vitro biocompatibility test (MTT assay, Cell adhesion assay) and differentiation test (alkaline phosphatase activity test, Alizarin Red Staining) was done. One Way ANOVA test was used for statistical analysis.
Results: Present study was shown PVA-Chitosan scaffold with dECM had more water uptake and less tensile strength. It also showed higher levels of degradation, cellular adhesion, cellular viability and differentiation than PVA-Chitosan alone. With adding dECM, SEM images demonstrated more fiber diameter, porosity and pore size in scaffolds.
Conclusion: The present data described the characterization of a novel dECM-based PVA-Chitosan scaffold with appropriate mechanical (water uptake and degradation rate) and biological properties (cellular adhesion, cellular viability and differentiation) via decellularizing periodontal tissues in compare it with PVA-Chitosan scaffold alone.
Combination of electrochemical and Fe2+ -activated persulfate oxidation for improving the dewaterability of aerobically digested sludge
Authors: Sarkari Faranak , Gajidoust Hossein , Yan Jia
Published: April 2024

This study uses two methods to condition aerobically digested sludge: electrochemical-Fe2+-activated PDS (E/Fe2+/PS) and Fe2+-activated PDS (Fe2+/PS). Due to the results of current studies, a comparison has been provided between these two methods to indicate the beneficial effect of applying electrical voltage on the generation of sulfate radicals and improving the dewaterability of sludge. TTF is measured to evaluate the efficiency of these conditioning methods. The Fe2+/PS process in the optimal retention time of 17 minutes decreased TTF by 50%. The E/Fe2+/PS process reduced TTF by 64% in the optimal retention time of 13 minutes and the voltage of 5V. In both methods, the optimal Persulfate concentration was 40mg/gDS. Sludge conditioning with both processes reduced compressibility and increased filtration yield, indicating that both methods can act as a physical conditioner (skeleton builder). Also, both pretreatments decreased the bound water of sludge, suggesting that both processes can serve as chemical conditioners, too. However, the E/Fe2+/PS process performs better in sludge conditioning when the concentrations of persulfate and iron are low. This phenomenon can be attributed to the regeneration of ferrous ions (Fe2+), acting as compensatory agents for the insufficiency of Fe2+, thereby ameliorating sludge dewatering efficiency.
Clinical characteristics and detection of MYB-QKI fusions in patients with Angiocentric glioma
Authors: Li Tiemin , Hu Yue , Zhang Huawei , Aihemaitiniyazi Adilijiang , Wei Da , Guan Yuguang , Zhou Jian , Qi Xueling , Wang Mengyang , Wu Bin , Zhu Mingwang , Zhang Linpeng , Luan Guoming , Liu Changqing
Published: April 2024

Purpose
Angiocentric glioma (AG), a benign tumor identified within the last two decades, was officially included in the 2007 WHO Classification of Tumors of the Central Nervous System, WHO grade I. The tumor is relatively rare, with only approximately 100 cases reported. We aim to complement the characteristics and long-term prognosis of AG, as well as to detect MYB-QKI fusions.
Methods
The characteristics of all cases collected between 1 March 2009 and 1 March 2023 at the Beijing Sanbo Brain Hospital, Capital Medical University, were summarized and analyzed. Additionally, all fourteen patients were tested for MYB-QKI fusions.
Results
AG more predominantly occurs in adolescents (median age 16.5-year-old), and commonly presents with drug-resistant epilepsy. AG is frequently localized in the supratentorial regions and only one patient is in the brainstem. Brain parenchyma atrophy, and stalk-like signs can observe in imaging. Pathologically, tumor cells are perivascular pseudorosettes, presenting immunoreactivity for GFAP, S-100, Vimentin, “dot-like” staining for EMA, and low proliferative activity. Pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma (PXA) tumor-like and tumor giant cells were observed in one patient, focal cortex dysplasia was observed in four patients. Twelve of fourteen (85.7%) patients were found with MYB-QKI fusions. Completely surgical resection typically has a satisfactory prognosis with long-term follow-up.
Conclusion
AG is a rare benign tumor with a favorable prognosis after complete resection, characterized by refractory epilepsy, frequently occurring in adolescents. MYB-QKI fusions were detected in most AG patients, as a good defining genetic alteration pathologically. The potential presence of focal cortical dysplasia (FCD) may affect the prognosis of epilepsy.
Comparative Analysis of Plant Disease Detection Models on RISC-Based Systems: AMiniTensorflow Approach
Authors: Tanksale Rushikesh , Mane Sunil B
Published: April 2024

Purpose: This research aims to evaluate the performance of four distinct deep learning models, namely EfficientNet B3, GoogLeNet, DenseNet, and VGG16, in the context of plant disease classification. The primary purpose is to investigate their accuracy, efficiency, and resource utilization, providing valuable insights for optimal model selection in agriculture.
Methods: The study employs a systematic approach, training each model on a diverse dataset encompassing various plant types and diseases. The training spans multiple epochs, and model evaluations are conducted using rigorous metrics such as accuracy, precision, recall, and latency. Furthermore, the resource utilization of each model is examined, considering CPU and RAM utilization, temperature, and Total Design Power (TDP).
Results: EfficientNet B3 emerges as the top-performing model, showcasing high accuracy and efficiency across various plant types. GoogLeNet and DenseNet also demonstrate competitive results, while VGG16, though satisfactory, exhibits slightly lower accuracy. In terms of resource utilization, EfficientNet B3 stands out as the most efficient, emphasizing its suitability for resource-constrained environments.
Conclusion: This research contributes valuable insights into the comparative performance of deep learning models for plant disease classification. The findings highlight EfficientNet B3 as a robust and efficient choice, particularly for applications where computational resources are limited. The study underscores the importance of considering both accuracy and resource utilization metrics for informed model selection in agricultural settings, paving the way for enhanced crop disease management strategies.
Status of scientific research integrity knowledge in dental undergraduates from 34 universities in China
Authors: WU Xiaojin , ZHENG Tongxin , NIE Yufei , WU Jingyi , CHEN Jirong , Pathak Janak L , WU Lihong
Published: April 2024

Background
This study aimed to investigatethe status of research integrity knowledge among dental undergraduates from 34 Chinese universities and 5 key demographic regions.
Methods
Questionnaires regarding the knowledge of scientific research integrity including, perception, attitude, and first-hand experience of scientific research integrity were distributed to dental undergraduates of 34 Chinese universities. We divided these universities into 5 key demographic reasons i.e. eastern, western, northern, southern, and central. The questionnaires filled up by 1514 participants were further analyzed.
Results
The results showed that most students acquire scientific integrity knowledge from courses and ideological or political education, and some students from other ways such as books and conferences. In terms of attitude, the vast majority of students are opposed to scientific misconduct, but a small number of students admitted that they have been involved in some sort of violation of scientific integrity by fabricating data, altering experimental results, and so on.
Conclusion Our results indicate that the academic and research environment with strict scientific integrity, implementation of scientific integrity courses in the curriculum, and proper supervision regarding scientific integrity are vital to improving the status of scientific research integrity knowledge in dental undergraduates in Chinese universities.
Exploring some substituted chalcones as DprE1 inhibitors for antitubercular activity: An integrated computational approach
Authors: Amengor Cedric Dzidzor Kodjo , Biniyam Prince Danan , Gyan Patrick , Kekessie Francis Klenam , Harley Benjamin Kingsley
Published: April 2024

The development of extensively drug resistance to Mycobacterium has further hindered WHO efforts in the fight against tuberculosis. Elucidation of new mechanistic pathways against drug-resistant TB is of primary concern. The current study aims to find potential chalcones via an in silico assessment against Decaprenylphosphoryl-β-D-ribose-2-oxidase (DprE1) which is a crucial target for ﬁnding antitubercular drug candidates. We prospected the in silico properties of a library of 30 chalcones having two aromatic rings and either an electron withdrawing or electron donating substituent against DprE1 enzyme. The results showed that the introduction of p-chloro or p-methyl substituents and an indole on the chalcones’ motif played critical roles in their inhibition of Mtb DprE1. These chalcones demonstrated favorable physicochemical, pharmacokinetic, and CYP metabolism characteristics, suggesting that they could be promising drug candidates for further investigation. Analysis of docked complexes revealed that non-covalent bonding interactions are important for the binding and stability of the chalcones within the active site of the protein with estimated free energy of binding ranging from -10.4 to -6.5 kcal/mol. The anti-TB sensitivity findings suggest that the compounds were more potent compared to the pyrazinamide against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Furthermore, the binding stability study performed using molecular dynamics simulation of the DprE1-9C complex disclosed the conformational stability of the complex over 200 ns with average root mean square deviation not exceeding 0.25 nm (2.5 Å). The computational results could immensely contribute toward hit to lead triaging in the search for new DprE1 inhibitors with improved antitubercular activities.
Exploring the neural mechanisms underlying cooperation and competition behaviour: Insights from SEEG Hyperscanning
Authors: Zhang Junsong , Qiao Xiaojun , Li Rui , Huang Huimin , Hong Yang , Li Xiaoran , Li Ziyue , Chen Siyi , Yang Lizhi , Ong ShengTeng , Yao Yi , Wang Fengpeng , Zhang Xiaobin , Lin Gaomin , Xiao Yongna , Weng Mingxiang
Published: April 2024

Cooperation and competition are two of the most important social behaviours in human society. Investigating human social behavior in cooperative and competitive contexts, involving the insula and inferior frontal gyrus (IFG) related to executive function and mentalizing, is crucial for comprehending our social nature. However, the detailed study of their neural oscillations is limited by the deep location of the insula and the time resolution constraints of existing imaging techniques. This study aims to employ advanced hyperscanning and stereo-electroencephalography (SEEG), with high temporal and spatial resolution, to examine intra- and inter-brain dynamics within the insula and IFG during cooperative and competitive tasks. We identified distinct high-gamma responses and observed varying connectivity patterns, with the IFG modulating insula activity during competition, and balanced interactions between the insula and IFG occurring during cooperation. Notably, we observed enhanced inter-brain insula synchronization in competition and greater IFG synchronization in cooperation, elucidating the gamma band's role in social interactions. These results enhance our understanding of the neural bases of cooperation and competition, emphasizing the critical roles of both insula and IFG in social cognition.
Non-clinical investigations about cytotoxic and anti-platelet activities of gamma-terpinene
Authors: Souza Railson Pereira , Pimentel Vinícius Duarte , de Sousa Rayran Walter Ramos , Sena Emerson Portela , Silva Alda Cássia Alves da , Dittz Dalton , Ferreira Paulo Michel Pinheiro , de Oliveira Aldeídia Pereira
Published: April 2024

Gamma-terpinene (γ-TPN) is a cyclohexane monoterpene, isolated from essential oils of pharmacologically active plant species, such as tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia), oregano (Origanum vulgare), rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.), thyme (Thymus vulgaris Marchand) and eucalyptus (Eucalyptus sp.). Terpenes are widely studied for their recognized pharmacological actions on the cardiovascular system, hemostasis and antioxidant actions. The objective of this study was to investigate the cytotoxic and antiplatelet activity of γ-TPN in non-clinical study models. For the in silico evaluation, the PreADMET, SwissADME and SwissTargetPrediction software were used. Molecular docking was performed using the AutoDockVina and BIOVIA Discovery Studio databases. The cytotoxicity of γ-TPN was analyzed by the MTT assay with normal murine endothelial (SVEC4-10) and fibroblast (L929) lines. Platelet aggregation was evaluated with platelet-rich (PRP) and platelet-poor (PPP) plasma from spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), in addition to SVEC4-10 cells pre-incubated with γ-TPN (50, 100 and 200 µM) for 24 h. In in vivo tests, SHR animals were also used, pre-treated by gavage with γ-TPN for 7 days, distributed into four groups (control, 25, 50 and 100 mg/Kg). At the end, blood samples were collected to measure nitrites using the Griess reagent. γ-TPN proved to be quite lipid-soluble (Log P = + 4.50), with a qualified profile of similarity to the drug, good bioavailability, and adequate pharmacokinetics. The monoterpene exhibited affinity mainly for the P2Y12 receptor (6.450 ± 0.232 Kcal/mol), moderate cytotoxicity for L929 (CC50 = 333.3 µM) and SVEC 4–10 (CC50 = 366.7 µM). The presence of γ-TPN in SVEC 4–10 cells was also able to reduce platelet aggregation by 51.57 and 44.20%, respectively, at the lowest concentrations (50 and 100 µM). It was concluded that γ-TPN has a good affinity with purinergic receptors and an effect on the reversal of platelet aggregation and oxidative stress, being promising and safe for therapeutic targets and subsequent studies in the control of thromboembolic diseases.
Network-pharmacology-based study on the mechanism of fibrates regulating HIF-1A in the treatment of ischemic stroke
Authors: Yang Fengjiao , Yan Ya , Gu Yun , Wang Pengyu , Wang Min , Chen Jianjie , Du Xiaoshan , Wang Guangming
Published: April 2024

Ischemic stroke (IS) is a serious threat to people's health, its occurrence risk is closely related to lipid levels and genes. Fibrates are commonly used as adjunctive therapy for IS in clinical practice, some studies have reported that hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF1A) is associated with the occurrence risk of various diseases, so it is important to explore the mechanism of fibrates regulate HIF1A in the treatment of IS. Firstly, the potential targets of fibrates, IS, HIF1A and HIF1A-related genes were obtained through various databases, then their common targets were obtained through Venny 2.1.0. The PPI network of fibrates and HIF1A-related genes was plotted by String platform and Cytoscape3.8.1 software. KEGG pathways of drugs, diseases, HIF1A and HIF1A related genes were obtained by Metascape platform. Finally, molecular docking of fibrates and HIF1A was performed by AutoDock software. In this study, the structure of five fibrates were obtained by reviewing the literature and pharmacopoeia. The common targets of five fibrates and IS showed that only 3 fibrates contained HIF1A. KEGG pathway analysis and molecular docking results showed that fibrates can better regulate HIF1A to treat IS, its main action pathways are pathways in cancer, kaposi sarcoma-associated herpesvirus infection and HIF-1 signaling pathway.