bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
P047 Management of patients using intrauterine contraception device- how a 3d scan can help to make a diagnosis?
Authors: Aziz Najia
Published: May 2024

Introduction

3D scanning can enhance the ability of a clinician to make an accurate diagnosis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the usage of 3D scanning in making a correct diagnosis of uterine anomalies and location of intrauterine contraception (IUC).

Methods

It was a retrospective analysis of patient’s notes that had 2D and 3D ultrasound done in Sexual and Reproductive healthcare clinic over a period of 6 months. All patients who had ultrasound done in relation to coil were included. The exclusion criteria were when ultrasound was done in terms of pelvic pain or bleeding and patient was not using IUC.

Results

90 patients were included in the analysis and all of them had both; 2D and 3D ultrasound. 57% of patients attended clinic with lost threads. 13% had bleeding problems and 8% had unsuccessful removal/insertion previously.

On ultrasound examination, 88% had coil placed at fundal location and 7% had low lying coil. 5% of patients had myometrial penetration of coil. 38% of patients were reassured about coil location and in 35% of cases coil was either removed or replaced. Gynaecology referral was done in 12%. 1 patient was diagnosed with sub-septate uterus.

Discussion

This study has shown that 3D scanning enhances the image quality by facilitating in the accurate location of coil especially in cases of myometrial penetration. It also helped in diagnosis of sub-septate uterus, which is not easily plausible with 2D scanning.
P048 Attitude of healthcare professionals’ and healthcare students’ attitudes towards teenage pregnancy and parenting
Authors: Taylor Anne-Marie
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Britain used to be known for its high rates of teenage pregnancy. It was labelled a ‘shameful record’ by the Labour government and the Teenage Pregnancy Strategy was launched. Rates of teenage pregnancy are falling. 3.4% of babies born in 2015 were to mothers under the age of 20, compared with 10.3% in 1970. Teenage pregnancy is strongly associated with social disadvantage and health problems. Studies have been done into life outcomes of teenage parents but there is limited research about attitudes of healthcare professionals towards this group.

Methods

An original 12 part questionnaire was designed to assess attitudes towards teenage pregnancy and parenting. 502 questionnaires were returned. A scoring system was devised (1–5) with 5 being a positive view and 1 being negative view using a Likert scale. Respondents could leave comments in the free text sections.

Results

55% of respondents think that teenage pregnancy is a public health problem. 18% had been affected by teenage pregnancy in their personal lives. 85% of respondents interact with teenage parents as part of their job role. 49% of HCPS would be happy discussing contraception with a patient of any age.

Improved access to contraception was the most favoured intervention to reduce teenage pregnancy followed by media campaigns aimed at teenagers.

Discussion

Teenage pregnancy can be an emotive topic and it is important to be aware of the potential stigma teenage parents may receive. This research also showed some interesting differences between attitudes towards male and female teenage parents.
P053 Together in electric screams: the frustrations of gum electronic patient records
Authors: Pao David , Stevens John , Lockton Dan
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Many GUM clinics have shifted from paper to Electronic Patient Records (EPR). While paper has limitations, its natural functionality – e.g. free-form writing, sketching and page-turning – is intuitive and easy to exploit. EPR promises so much, but how easy or intuitive is it in current clinical GUM practice?

Methods

A mixed methods paper survey asking GUM clinicians about the EPR they use.

Part one asked about usability and function with fourteen 7-point Likert-scale items. Part two guided respondents to describe qualitatively how EPR affected their sense of the clinical consultation.

Results

Out of 33 surveys distributed, 28 were returned (85%) by mixed staff groups from 3 clinics using the same EPR.

Likert-scale items underwent chi-square analysis after collapsing responses into positive and negative groups. All 14 items were negatively skewed away from neutral; 8 of these were significant (p<0.05): history overview, accuracy with multiple visits, getting lost, mirroring clinical reality, use of graphics, amount of clicking, searchability and support of clinical practice. Further analysis will explore this deviation from neutral.

Qualitative responses described frustration, reduced competence/autonomy, interrupted flow, poor eye contact, poor history overview, repeated questions - particularly with symptomatic patients or with multiple episodes of care.

Discussion

There is dissatisfaction with this EPR system, both in the way it functions and its impact on the clinician-patient consultation. Further research is warranted to assess the extent of these issues with other GUM EPR systems, and to explore ways of engaging with clinical information that help rather than hinder clinical performance.
Analytical and experimental evaluation of two-layered unsaturated sand bearing capacity
Authors: Ghasemzadeh Hasan , Akbari Fereshteh , Khayatian Hossein
Published: May 2024

Pavement design methods based on principles of unsaturated soil mechanics take into account high soil shear strength due to matric suction resulting in more economical design especially in long roads. In this study, the bearing capacity of two-layer unsaturated sand was investigated using both analytical and experimental methods. At first, using the limit equilibrium method an analytical formula was proposed to determine the bearing capacity of two-layer unsaturated sand in which linear suction profile was considered in soil layers. It should be considered that the constant matric suction distribution assumed by the previous researchers does not show the real profile of matric suction within the soil, sometimes resulting in miscalculated unsaturated bearing capacity. Also, the bearing capacity of two-layer unsaturated poorly graded sand was investigated experimentally in different suctions by a special unsaturated chamber apparatus (UCA) designed for this purpose. The results show more than double increase of unsaturated soil bearing capacity with Sr  = 25% compared to saturated soil. The formation of failure wedges in all experiments was investigated by image processing. An acceptable agreement was obtained between the theoretical and experimental bearing capacity results.
The Dirac equation as a linear tensor equation for one component
Authors: Akhmeteli Andrey
Published: May 2024

The Dirac equation is one of the most fundamental equations of modern physics. It is a spinor equation, but some tensor equivalents of the equation were proposed previously. Those equivalents were either nonlinear or involved several components of the Dirac field. On the other hand, the author showed previously that the Dirac equation in electromagnetic field is equivalent to a fourth-order equation for one component of the Dirac spinor. The equivalency is used in this work to derive a linear tensor equivalent of the Dirac equation for just one component. This surprising result can be used in applications of the Dirac equation, for example, in general relativity or for lattice approximation of the Dirac field, and can improve our understanding of the Dirac equation.
Impact of Tutorial Modes with Different Time Flow Rates in Virtual Reality Games
Authors: Chen Boyuan , Yan Xinan , Hu Xuning , Kao Dominic , Liang Hai-Ning
Published: May 2024

Virtual reality's (VR) unique affordances compared to traditional media have produced innovative interaction modes and tutorial methodologies in VR games. Existing research predominantly focuses on the performance of VR tutorial modes, such as the placement of text and diagrams within tutorial content. However, few studies have delved into other attributes of tutorials. This study categorizes 4 VR game tutorial modes based on time flow: (1) traditional instruction screen, (2) slow motion, (3) bullet time, and (4) context-sensitive mode. This paper evaluates the impact of these 4 VR game tutorial modes with varying time flow rates on controls learnability, engagement-related outcomes, and player performance. We conducted a between-subjects experiment with 59 participants. Results indicated that bullet time significantly enhanced controls learnability, reduced cognitive load, and improved player performance when compared to other tutorial modes. Our research contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of VR game tutorials and offers practical guidance for game designers, underscoring the potential of bullet time to enhance learnability and game experience.
Assessing Reliability for Quantifying Social Interactions among Crayfish
Authors: Smith Lee Ann , Nadolski Jeremy , Jacobs Grace , Ogle Jodi M. , Srinivasan Madhusudan P. , Tanner Hannah N. , Steele Elizabeth R. , Marguerite Nicole T. , Bierbower Sonya , Steen Slane , Easterling Isaac , Greenhalgh Abigail , Pankau Cecilia , McCubbin Shelby , Behymer Brad , Cooper Robin L.
Published: May 2024

Animal behavior is a useful way to evaluate the environment and can be a predictive tool to assess not only the effects of treatments in a laboratory setting, but also the status of ecological habitats. As invasive species of crayfish encroach on territories of native species, the social behaviors and interactions can be informative for ecological studies. For a wider and more impactful effect, training community scientists using a scoring system to record the social interactions of crayfish that includes both the level of aggression and intensity would provide useable data to monitor the environment. Amateur scientists with little training were fairly reliable in their average scoring of the crayfish and the maximum behavior score with an expert as well as among themselves. However, the number of interactions was not as a reliable metric to compare with the expert or just among the amateurs.
Supplementary Figure S1 from Exercise-induced β2-adrenergic Receptor Activation Enhances the Antileukemic Activity of Expanded γδ T-Cells via DNAM-1 Upregulation and PVR/Nectin-2 Recognition
Authors: Baker Forrest L. , Smith Kyle A. , Mylabathula Preetesh L. , Zúñiga Tiffany M. , Diak Douglass M. , Batatinha Helena , Niemiro Grace M. , Seckeler Michael D. , Pedlar Charles R. , O'Connor Daniel P. , Colombo Jamie , Katsanis Emmanuel , Simpson Richard J.
Published: May 2024

Supplemental Figure S1: The percentage or MFI of activating, inhibitory, and chemokine receptors among Vd2+ and Vd1+ T-cells before and during acute exercise
Abstract 104: Early Rescue of Lymphatic Function Limits Atherosclerosis Progression in

Ldlr
-/-

Mice
Authors: Milasan Andreea , Smaani Ali , Martel Catherine
Published: May 2024

Background:
Lymphatic function impairment occurs before the onset of atherosclerosis in mice and is precociously associated with a defect in the propelling capacity of the collecting lymphatic vessels (LV). Lymphatic transport can be restored in mice by systemic injections of a mutant form of VEGF-C (VEGF-C 152s). In the present study, we aimed to determine whether and how early modulation of collecting LV function could restrain atherosclerosis onset and limit its progression.

Methods:
Ldlr
-/-
mice at 6 weeks of age were injected intraperitoneally with VEGF-C 152s or with PBS every other day for 4 weeks, fed on high fat diet (HFD) for an additional 8 weeks to promote plaque progression, and switched back on chow diet for 4 more weeks to stabilize the lesion.

Results:
Early treatment with VEGF-C 152s first improved lymphatic molecular transport in 6-week-old Ldlr
-/-
mice and subsequently limited plaque and macrophage accumulation, while improving inflammatory cell migration through the lymphatics in HFD-fed mice. The contraction frequency of the collecting LVs was significantly increased following treatment throughout the whole atherosclerotic process and resulted in enhanced plaque stabilization. This early and maintained rescue of the lymphatic dysfunction was associated with an upregulation of VEGFR3 and FOXC2 expression on lymphatic endothelial cells, albeit without modifying eNOS expression. Systemic injections with VEGF-C 152s did not initially alter mice cholesterol levels and lipoprotein profile. Unsurprisingly, total plasma cholesterol levels increased when the pro-atherogenic regimen was applied and an improved absorptive capacity of the mesenteric LVs was reflected by the presence of chylomicron remnants and lower levels of VLDL and LDL/IDL in the VEGF-C-treated group. VEGF-C 152s also did not significantly modulate HDL levels throughout the process. This indicates that VEGF-C-dependant stimulation of lymphatic function, independent of cholesterol levels, is responsible for subsequent atherosclerotic plaque buildup.

Conclusions:
Early treatments that specifically target the lymphatic contraction capacity prior to lesion formation might be a novel therapeutic approach for the prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis.
Abstract 110: Genetic Analysis Implicates LDL Cholesterol Reduction and Plasminogen Activator-inhibitor 1 Antagonism as Therapeutic Interventions for Venous Thromboembolism
Authors: Klarin Derek , Busenkell Emma , Judy Renae , Lynch Julie , Aragam Krishna , Chaffin Mark , Haas Mary , Assimes Themistocles L , Huang Jie , Lee Kyung Min , Shao Qing , Huffman Jennifer E , Huang Yunfeng , Sun Yan V , Vujkovic Marijana , Saleheen Danish , Miller Donald R , Reaven Peter , DuVall Scott , Boden William , Pyarajan Saiju , Gaziano J. Michael , Concato John , Rader Daniel J , Cho Kelly , Chang Kyong-Mi , Wilson Peter W , Smith Nicholas L , O’Donnell Christopher J , Tsao Philip S , Kathiresan Sekar , Natarajan Pradeep , DAMRAUER Scott M ,   VA Million Veteran Program
Published: May 2024

Introduction:
Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a significant heritable cause of cardiovascular-related mortality, yet previously published GWAS have only identified 11 genome-wide significant (P<5x10
-8
) risk loci to date.

Hypothesis:
Genetic variants affecting multiple biological pathways are associated with VTE risk and may reveal novel therapeutic targets.

Methods:
Using EHR data, we identified individuals with and without clinical VTE in the Million Veteran Program and UK Biobank participants. Individuals were genotyped on customized Affymetrix Biobank arrays, and we tested 13 million genotyped and imputed DNA variants for association with clinical VTE using logistic regression models adjusting for age, sex and population structure. We then meta-analyzed across the two datasets and set a P<5x10
-8
for statistical significance. In downstream analyses, we examined genetic variant-plasma protein associations at P<5x10
-8
generated from SOMAscan data quantifying 3,622 plasma proteins in 3,301 healthy participants from the INTERVAL study to identify VTE risk variants that alter protein concentrations in human plasma. We then performed a Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to evaluate the causal role of lipids (HDL cholesterol/LDL cholesterol/triglycerides) on VTE risk using a 222-variant lipid genetic risk score and set P<0.016 (0.05/3 lipid fractions) for statistical significance.

Results:
We identified 26,066 VTE cases and 624,053 controls. Following meta-analysis, we identified 21 novel VTE loci implicating known VTE risk factors including body mass index (
LMOD
) and hypercoaguability (
VWF, FX, PROC, PROS1
). Four of the VTE risk variants were associated with changes in protein concentrations in plasma resulting in a pro-coagulant effect, including an increased expression of 1) Factor Xa, a current VTE therapeutic target, and 2) plasminogen activator-inhibitor 1, a possible novel therapeutic target. Through MR analysis, we provide evidence that LDL cholesterol, may be a causal risk factor for VTE (OR=1.17 per SD increase in LDL cholesterol, P=0.003).

Conclusions:
Here, we assembled the largest reported cohort of individuals with clinical VTE and genetic data and identify novel associations with therapeutic implications.
“What’s in a name?” Bairdia fasciata Brady, 1870, and two new Caribbean species of Bairdoppilata (Bairdiidae, Podocopida, Ostracoda)
Authors: MADDOCKS ROSALIE F. , HORNE DAVID J.
Published: May 2024

The single specimen of Bairdia fasciata Brady, 1870 in the Great North Museum, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK, is declared to be the holotype by monotypy. Because it is a closed carapace, the internal characters remain unknown. Taxonomically, neither the genus nor the species is identifiable, nor can the subsequent identification in Belize be confirmed. New sampling at the type locality in the Cape Verde Islands is recommended, to recover a population for taxonomic re-description.
Here, two new species of Genus Bairdoppilata are described from the carbonate platform of Belize, Ba. magnafasciata, n. sp. and Ba. parvafasciata, n. sp. Both display similarities to B. fasciata from the Cape Verde Islands, but neither one can be identified with that species. Both species are widely distributed in shallow coastal assemblages around the central and northern Caribbean. In taxonomy, names matter, and the correction of published misidentifications is essential. Clarification of these species enables more accurate delineation of ecological and biogeographical distributions in Caribbean assemblages.
New species of Neomachilellus Wygodzinsky 1953 (Insecta: Archaeognatha: Meinertellidae) from Madre de Dios, Peru
Authors: PALACIOS-MARTINEZ IÑIGO
Published: May 2024

This study describes a new species of jumping bristletail, Neomachilellus mercurialis sp. nov., discovered during a research expedition at the Los Amigos Biological Station in Madre de Dios, Peru. The specimens could not be morphologically assigned to any known species within the genus Neomachilellus s. str. Wygodzinsky 1953. Morphological examination revealed distinct differences in various characters, morphometric measurements, and pigmentation patterns compared to other species. The new species exhibits submedian, widened, oval-shaped ocelli, pigmentation on articles I‒VII of the maxillary palpi, and strong pigment on the femora, tibiae, and tarsi of the legs. Notably, femora and tibiae lack spines or prominent spiniform setae, while the tarsi feature spine-like setae characteristic of the nominal subgenus. The newly discovered species shares a close relationship with other taxa of Neomachilellus, specifically belonging to the muticus-group of species. Urgent taxonomic revision and molecular studies are warranted for this genus, emphasizing the ongoing challenges in understanding Archaeognatha.
Ciliate symbionts of bivalves with notes on their worldwide geographic distribution
Authors: MAYÉN-ESTRADA ROSAURA , DÁVILA STHEFANE , DIAS ROBERTO JUNIO PEDROSO
Published: May 2024

The shells, mantle cavities and various organs of mollusks serve as suitable habitats for symbiotic ciliates, as commensal, epibiotic and parasitic. With about 80,000 species, molluscans are distributed in freshwater, marine and terrestrial habitats; symbiotic ciliates have been recorded in bivalves, gastropods and polyplacophorans; however these records have not been integrated in comprehensive revisions. The goal of this work is to provide an updated checklist of the ciliates involved as symbionts of bivalve molluscs worldwide. Available records of symbiotic species of ciliates were compiled and checked, along with their molluscan hosts and localities. We obtained data for 165 species of ciliates as symbionts of 158 bivalve hosts, distributed in 31 countries, regions and seas. This is the first comprehensive study to review the biodiversity of ciliates associated with bivalves and show that only a small fraction of this class of molluscs has been studied in terms of their symbiotic relationships with ciliates.
First reliable fossil record of the subfamily Rhysipolinae (Hymenoptera: Braconidae): a new subgenus and species of the genus Rhysipolis Foerster, 1863 from Baltic amber
Authors: BELOKOBYLSKIJ SERGEY A. , MANUKYAN ANDRANIK R.
Published: May 2024

A new fossil subgenus and species of the genus Rhysipolis Foerster, 1863 from the subfamily Rhysipolinae, Rhysipolis (Granulopolis) simutniki Belokobylskij, subgen. et sp. nov., are described and illustrated from late Eocene Baltic amber. The genus Trichelyon Ortega-Blanco & Engel, 2012 is synonymised with Clinocentrus Haliday, 1833 (syn. nov.) and a new combination, Clinocentrus tadkeshwarense (Ortega-Blanco & Engel, 2012), comb. nov., is suggested. The status of the previously described species in the subfamily Rhysipolinae are discussed.
A new species of the electric fish Microsternarchus Fernández-Yépez 1968 (Gymnotiformes: Hypopomidae) from the lower Amazon basin, Brazil
Authors: SOUSA TRYCIA , WOSIACKI WOLMAR B. , MURIEL-CUNHA JANICE , PRUDENTE BRUNO S. , SOUSA RODRIGO S. , PEIXOTO LUIZ A. W.
Published: May 2024

A new species of Microsternarchus is described from clear water streams in the lower Rio Amazonas basin, Brazil, increasing the known species in the genus to three. The new species is distinguished from congeners by a unique set of characters including an elongated caudal filament (35.1–36.8% of the total length) and distinct irregular suborbital blotches. A dichotomous key to the species of Microsternarchus is provided.
History and historical DNA: Identity of Chelodina intergularis Fry, 1915 and type localities of C. intergularis and C. rugosa Ogilby, 1890
Authors: KEHLMAIER CHRISTIAN , KUCHLING GERALD , SHEA GLENN , GEORGES ARTHUR , ZHANG XIUWEN , FRITZ UWE , THOMSON SCOTT
Published: May 2024

Based on the phylogenetic placement of a near-complete mitogenome sequence of the holotype of Chelodina intergularis Fry, 1915 generated with hDNA approaches, we present evidence for the synonymy of this nominal species with Chelodina rugosa Ogilby, 1890. The type specimens of both taxa are housed in the Australian Museum, Sydney. Scrutinizing historical records, we conclude that the type locality of both taxa is most likely the vicinity of Somerset, at the northern extremity of Cape York Peninsula, Queensland, Australia. We figure and describe both type specimens. Our results support the earlier conclusion that the exceptional arrangement of intergular and gular scutes in the holotype of C. intergularis is an individual aberration.
A new species of Metron Godman, 1900 (Lepidoptera, Hesperiidae) from the western Amazon, with a unique hindwing color pattern in Hesperiina, its phylogenetic placement, and an illustrated key for the genus
Authors: DOLIBAINA DIEGO RODRIGO , MIELKE OLAF HERMANN HENDRIK , CASAGRANDE MIRNA MARTINS , GRISHIN NICK V.
Published: May 2024

Metron mentor Dolibaina, O. Mielke & Casagrande, sp. nov. is described from the western Amazon of Brazil, Peru, and Venezuela. The wide white area covering part of the hindwing and body of the new species is unique in Hesperiina and is hypothesized to create a disruptive pattern when the insect is at rest, resembling a bird dropping. Based on genomic data, Metron mentor sp. nov. is recovered as a sister species of all the known species of Metron Godman, 1900. This hypothesis suggests that the similar ventral hindwing of M. mentor sp. nov. to species formerly in Metron and Propertius Evans, 1955, but currently in Metrocles Godman, 1900 may be plesiomorphic. The new species is illustrated and described, a phylogenomic hypothesis for Metron is presented, and an illustrated key for both sexes (when known) is given for all the species and subspecies in the genus.
Ecophysiology and Seedlings Nutrient Contents of Forest Species Ricinodendron heudelotii (Mull. Arg.) and Cola acuminata (P. Beauv.) Influenced by Biofertilizer and Salinity
Authors: Virginie Tchiaze , Cyril Lieujip , Serge Ekwel , Ibrahim Fanteunti , Desire Taffouo
Published: May 2024

Ricinodendron heudelotii and Cola acuminata, are important plants species whose exploitation became abusive over the years due to the high utilization of their fruits as Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFP). They face to multiple challenges: a recalcitrance of seeds and salinity that limits regeneration. Therefore, regeneration seems an appropriate corridor for domestication with the optimization of plant mycorrhizal symbiosis otherwise called arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). But alongside this domestication can be added constraints due to salinity of the soils in coastal region. This justify the aim of this work which was to study dynamics and evaluate the effect of salinity and mycorrhizal biofertilizers on the Ricinodendron heudelotii and Cola acuminata seedlings. To undergo this purpose, data were collected in two villages (Kendje and Njombeng) in Mungo division, and assay were conducted in greenhouse at the Faculty of Science, University of Douala-Cameroon. In the field, the identification of species was assessed over an area of 1600 m² as well as the circumference of the trees, the individual number of Ricinodendron heudelotii and Cola acuminata among other species in order to assess their maturity and rarity in the forest. The second part was carried out in the greenhouse for the purpose of germination, obtaining seedlings and evaluating the effects of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (Gisgaspora margarita) as biofertilizers on the seedlings in saline conditions (0, 50, 100 and 200 mM of NaCl). Some parameters were determined on seedlings (plant growth, dry weight, distribution of ions in plant organs, chlorophyll and carotenoid content) over a period of twenty-six weeks. Globally Cola acuminata is more present in the forest (5.88%) than Ricinodendron heudelotii (1.47%) with average circumference of 105cm for both species. AMF-biofertilizer alleviates the deleterious effect of salt stress on plants growth parameters depending of concentration. Moreover, for those species, the distribution of Na+ is more accumulated in the root’s plants unlike K+ and P which are more concentrated in the leaves.
Effect of Productive Tillers on Seed Yield and Seed Quality of Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.) Varieties in Assosa District, Western Ethiopia
Authors: Ayana Fekede , Tolosa Mosisa
Published: May 2024

Poor management of sorghum tillers is a significant problem in the Benishangul-Gumuz region of Ethiopia, affecting seed yield and quality. An experiment was conducted to determine the impact of sorghum productive tillers on seed yield and quality. The study involved two Sorghum varieties (Assosa-1 and Adukara) and three plant types per spot. The treatments were aligned as RCBD and CRD in factorial combination, replicated three and four times for field and laboratory experiments respectively. Varieties influenced TSW (P < 0.0001), Number of tiller influenced by number plants head matured for seed production (P ≤ 0.0001), plants height (P ≤ 0.0004), The interaction effects of varieties and number of tillers per plant influenced yields, Panicle length (P < 0.0001). For laboratory experiments varieties influenced Speed of germination (P < 0.0001), number of Dead seeds (P < 0.0001). Number of tiller influenced Speed of germination (P < 0.0001), number of Dead seeds, shoot length (P < 0.004), Vigor index one and Vigor index two (P≤0.05). The interaction effects of varieties and number of tillers per plant influenced Standard germination (P < 0.001). The main shoot plants had the highest number of fertile sorghum heads (86.5), followed by primary tillers (27.08). Secondary tillers had the highest plant height (96.52 cm). The main shoot plant yielded more seeds than primary and secondary tillers, with the shoot exceeding these yields by 302.96% and 1333%, respectively. Primary and secondary tillers had higher percentages of dead seeds than the main shoot plant, 53.5% and 45.2%, respectively. The primary and secondary tillers experienced a decline in seedling vigour index one over different periods, while the main sorghum plant varieties, Adukara and Assosa-1, showed an upward trend. The germination percentages of the primary and secondary tillers were less than the 85% Ethiopian seed standard requirement. Because sorghum tillers lower seed quality, they should be eliminated for seed production. If sorghum is grown for grain production, secondary tillers have the benefit of raising overall yield production.
Mineralogical Characteristics of Color-Changing Garnet and the Effect of Light Path Length on Color
Authors: Liu Weiming , Qiu Yan , Guo Ying
Published: May 2024

The color-changing garnet displays the “alexandrite effect”, changing from green in daylight to purplish-red under incandescent light. The mineralogical characteristics of color-changing garnet is analyzed using Raman spectroscopy, ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy,
an electron probe, and laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS). The color of garnets with different thicknesses was calculated using the International Commission on Illumination (CIE 1976) L*a*b* uniform color system. The results revealed
the presence of rutile inclusions in color-changing garnet. Strong absorption in both the blue-violet zone and orange-yellow zone was the main cause for the color-changing effect of garnet. The distribution pattern of rare earth elements (REE) was left-leaning, showing the enrichment of heavy
rare earth elements (HREE) and depletion of light rare earth elements (LREE). As the total Cr and V concentrations increased, the area of the 574 nm absorption peak in the UV-Vis spectrum also increased, leading to a more significant variation in color ΔE*ab.
The light path length of the gemstone had a significant impact on the extent of the color-changing effect. The color difference reached a maximum and the color-changing effect was most visible when the thickness of the gemstone was 5 mm.
Green Formulation of Descurainia sophia Aqueous Extract Mediated Ag NPs and Determination of Its Anti-Hemangioma Effects
Authors: Luo Jiaqing , Mao Shuaishuai , Ren Aoyun , Huang Wei , Huang Chengmin
Published: May 2024

Hemangioma is a common cancer with severe clinical signs. Finding a new anti-hemangioma supplement or drug inside of the chemotherapeutic drug is valuable. We synthesized silver nanoparticles containing Descurainia sophia leaf for investigating the anti-hemangioma, cytotoxicity,
and antioxidant effects. Characterization of AgNPs was performed by Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM), UV–Visible Spectroscopy (UV-Vis), and X-Ray diffraction analysis (XRD). The plain peak in the wavelength 449 nm revealed the AgNPs synthesis. TEM and FE-SEM analyses
showed that synthesized AgNPs were found to be 16.9 to 48.43 nm mean particle size. For investigating the antioxidant efficacy, the DPPH assay was conducted. AgNPs prevented 50% of DPPH in the dilation of 40 μg/mL. To measure the anti-hemangioma efficacy of AgNPs, MTT assay was applied
on SK HEP-1 and HAEND cell lines. AgNPs had high anti-hemangioma efficacy on above tumor cells without any significant toxicity on HUVEC. The best finding of anti-hemangioma properties of AgNPs was seen in the case of the HAEND cell line. This study indicated significant anti-hemangioma and
antioxidant potentials of AgNPs containing Descurainia sophia.
Experimental investigations of temperature-sensitive shape memory polymer composites for 4D printing
Authors: Dixit Garima , Pandey Pulak Mohan
Published: May 2024

Shape memory polymers (SMPs) and their composites (SMPCs) have emerged as popular materials in a variety of industries due to their unique properties of shape-changing behavior in response to external stimuli. The inclusion of reinforcement may modify the SMPs to enhance their thermal and shape memory properties. Different types of bio ceramics have already been used to alter the thermal and shape memory behavior of SMPs. However, using bioactive glass (BG) as filler to modify these properties has not yet been explored. Despite the significant advantages that shape-memory polymers (SMPs) offer when combined with 3D/4D printing technology, their potential in 3D printing has been explored only to a limited extent. This work created a solvent-based 4D-printed temperature-sensitive shape memory polymer composites (SMPCs) system using polylactic acid (PLA) and bioactive glass (BG). The influence of BG on the thermal as well as shape-memory capabilities of composites was further examined. An increase in the degree of crystallinity and viscoelastic characteristics of PLA/BG composites led to improved shape memory properties, like shape fixity and shape recovery. These findings suggest the potential for using the developed SMPC printed through 4D printing technology, to develop complex shapes for self-foldable structures and smart biomedical devices in the future.
Treatment approach and outcomes of patients with accelerated/blast-phase myeloproliferative neoplasms in the current era
Authors: Patel Anand A. , Yoon James J. , Johnston Hannah , Davidson Marta B. , Shallis Rory M. , Chen Evan C. , Burkart Madelyn , Oh Timothy S. , Iyer Sunil G. , Madarang Ellen , Muthiah Chandrasekar , Gross Iyana , Dean Raven , Kassner Joshua , Viswabandya Auro , Madero-Marroquin Rafael , Rampal Raajit K. , Guru Murthy Guru Subramanian , Bradley Terrence , Abaza Yasmin , Garcia Jacqueline S. , Gupta Vikas , Pettit Kristen M. , Cursio John F. , Odenike Olatoyosi
Published: May 2024

Progression of myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) to accelerated or blast phase is associated with poor survival outcomes. Since 2017 there have been several therapies approved for use in acute myeloid leukemia (AML); these therapies have been incorporated into the management of accelerated/blast-phase MPNs (MPN-AP/BP). We performed a multicenter analysis to investigate outcomes of patients diagnosed with MPN-AP/BP in 2017 or later. In total, 202 patients were identified; median overall survival (OS) was 0.86 years. We also analyzed patients based on first-line treatment; the 3 most common approaches were intensive chemotherapy (n = 65), DNA methyltransferase inhibitor (DNMTi)-based regimens (n = 65), and DNMTi + venetoclax–based regimens (n = 54). Median OS was not significantly different by treatment type. In addition, we evaluated response by 2017 European LeukemiaNet AML criteria and 2012 MPN-BP criteria in an effort to understand the association of response with survival outcomes. We also analyzed outcomes in 65 patients that received allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant (allo-HSCT); median OS was 2.30 years from time of allo-HSCT. Our study demonstrates that survival among patients with MPN-AP/BP is limited in the absence of allo-HSCT even in the current era of therapeutics and underscores the urgent need for new agents and approaches.
Comparing chemical transfection, electroporation, and lentiviral vector transduction to achieve optimal transfection conditions in the Vero cell line
Authors: Jamour Parisa , Jamali Abbas , Langeroudi Arash Ghalyanchi , Sharafabad Behrouz Ebadi , Abdoli Asghar
Published: May 2024

Background

Transfection is an important analytical method for studying gene expression in the cellular environment. There are some barriers to efficient DNA transfection in host cells, including circumventing the plasma membrane, escaping endosomal compartmentalization, autophagy, immune sensing pathways, and translocating the nuclear envelope. Therefore, it would be very useful to introduce an optimum transfection approach to achieve a high transfection efficiency in the Vero cell line. The aim of this study was to compare various transfection techniques and introduce a highly efficient method for gene delivery in Vero cells.

Methods

In the current study, three transfection methods were used, including chemical transfection, electroporation, and lentiviral vector transduction, to obtain the optimum transfection conditions in the Vero cell line. Vero cells were cultured and transfected with chemical transfection reagents, electroporation, or HIV-1-based lentivectors under different experimental conditions. Transfection efficiency was assessed using flow cytometry and fluorescence microscopy to detect GFP-positive cells.

Results

Among the tested methods, TurboFect™ chemical transfection exhibited the highest efficiency. Optimal transfection conditions were achieved using 1 µg DNA and 4 µL TurboFect™ in 6 × 104 Vero cells.

Conclusion

TurboFect™, a cationic polymer transfection reagent, demonstrated superior transfection efficiency in Vero cells compared with electroporation and lentivirus particles, and is the optimal choice for chemical transfection in the Vero cell line.
Epiphytic and endophytic bacteria on Camellia oleifera phyllosphere: exploring region and cultivar effect
Authors: Chen Xiaolin , Li Lili , He Yuanhao
Published: May 2024

The epiphytic and endophytic bacteria play an important role in the healthy growth of plants. Both plant species and growth environmental influence the bacterial population diversity, yet it is inconclusive whether it is the former or the latter that has a greater impact. To explore the communities of the epiphytic and endophytic microbes in Camellia oleifera, this study assessed three representative C. oleifera cultivars from three areas in Hunan, China by Illumina high-throughput sequencing. The results showed that the diversity and species richness of endophytic microbial community in leaves were significantly higher than those of microbial community in the epiphytic. The diversity and species richness of epiphytic and endophytic microbes are complex when the same cultivar was grown in different areas. The C. oleifera cultivars grown in Youxian had the highest diversity of epiphytic microbial community, but the lowest abundance, while the cultivars grown in Changsha had the highest diversity and species richness of endophytic microbes in leaves. It was concluded that the dominant phylum mainly included Proteobacteria, Actinobacteriota and Firmicutes through the analysis of the epiphytic and endophytic microbial communities of C. oleifera. The species and relative abundances of epiphytic and endophytic microbial community were extremely different at the genus level. The analysis of NMDS map and PERMANOVA shows that the species richness and diversity of microbial communities in epiphytes are greatly influenced by region. However, the community structure of endophytic microorganisms in leaves is influenced by region and cultivated varieties, but the influence of cultivars is more significant. Molecular ecological network analysis showed that the symbiotic interaction of epiphytic microbial community was more complex.
The single-cell chromatin landscape in gonadal cell lineage specification
Authors: Suen Hoi Ching , Ou Fanghong , Miu Kai-kei , Wang Zhangting , Chan Wai-yee , Liao Jinyue
Published: May 2024

Gonad development includes sex determination and divergent maturation of the testes and ovaries. Recent advances in measuring gene expression in single cells are providing new insights into this complex process. However, the underlying epigenetic regulatory mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we profiled chromatin accessibility in mouse gonadal cells of both sexes from embryonic day 11.5 to 14.5 using single-cell assay for transposase accessible chromatin by sequencing (scATAC-seq). Our results showed that individual cell types can be inferred by the chromatin landscape, and that cells can be temporally ordered along developmental trajectories. Integrative analysis of transcriptomic and chromatin-accessibility maps identified multiple putative regulatory elements proximal to key gonadal genes Nr5a1, Sox9 and Wt1. We also uncover cell type-specific regulatory factors underlying cell type specification. Overall, our results provide a better understanding of the epigenetic landscape associated with the progressive restriction of cell fates in the gonad.
Genome-wide expression analysis of LACS gene family implies GhLACS25 functional responding to salt stress in cotton
Authors: Xu Yuchen , Fu Shouyang , Huang Yiwen , Zhou Dayun , Wu Yuzhen , Peng Jun , Kuang Meng
Published: May 2024

Background

Long-chain acyl-coenzyme A synthetase (LACS) is a type of acylating enzyme with AMP-binding, playing an important role in the growth, development, and stress response processes of plants.

Results

The research team identified different numbers of LACS in four cotton species (Gossypium hirsutum, Gossypium barbadense, Gossypium raimondii, and Gossypium arboreum). By analyzing the structure and evolutionary characteristics of the LACS, the GhLACS were divided into six subgroups, and a chromosome distribution map of the family members was drawn, providing a basis for further research classification and positioning. Promoter cis-acting element analysis showed that most GhLACS contain plant hormones (GA, MeJA) or non-biological stress-related cis-elements. The expression patterns of GhLACS under salt stress treatment were analyzed, and the results showed that GhLACS may significantly participate in salt stress response through different mechanisms. The research team selected 12 GhLACSs responsive to salt stress for tissue expression analysis and found that these genes are expressed in different tissues.

Conclusions

There is a certain diversity of LACS among different cotton species. Analysis of promoter cis-acting elements suggests that GhLACS may be involved in regulating plant growth, development and stress response processes. GhLACS25 was selected for in-depth study, which confirmed its significant role in salt stress response through virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) and induced expression in yeast cells.
‘Candidatus Phytoplasma mali’ SAP11-Like protein modulates expression of genes involved in energy production, photosynthesis, and defense in Nicotiana occidentalis leaves
Authors: Mittelberger Cecilia , Moser Mirko , Hause Bettina , Janik Katrin
Published: May 2024

Background

‘Candidatus Phytoplasma mali’, the causal agent of apple proliferation disease, exerts influence on its host plant through various effector proteins, including SAP11CaPm which interacts with different TEOSINTE BRANCHED1/ CYCLOIDEA/ PROLIFERATING CELL FACTOR 1 and 2 (TCP) transcription factors. This study examines the transcriptional response of the plant upon early expression of SAP11CaPm. For that purpose, leaves of Nicotiana occidentalis H.-M. Wheeler were Agrobacterium-infiltrated to induce transient expression of SAP11CaPm and changes in the transcriptome were recorded until 5 days post infiltration.

Results

The RNA-seq analysis revealed that presence of SAP11CaPm in leaves leads to downregulation of genes involved in defense response and related to photosynthetic processes, while expression of genes involved in energy production was enhanced.

Conclusions

The results indicate that early SAP11CaPm expression might be important for the colonization of the host plant since phytoplasmas lack many metabolic genes and are thus dependent on metabolites from their host plant.
Association of cooking oil and incident of frailty in older adults: a cohort study
Authors: Dai Miao , Xin Huaping , Dai Weiwei , Huang Xiaohong , Wang Xiang
Published: May 2024

Background

Studies examining the potential association between cooking oil and frailty risk in older adults have produced conflicting outcomes. Therefore, our objective was to explore the relationship between cooking oil (vegetable and animal fat oils), changes in oil usage, and the risk of frailty in older adults.

Methods

We included 4,838 participants aged ≥ 65 years without frailty (frailty index < 0.25) from the 2011 wave of the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey. Follow-up occurred in the 2014 and 2018 waves. Cox proportional hazard models were utilized to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) to examine the association between cooking oil and frailty. Additionally, we evaluated the effect of switching cooking oil on frailty during the follow-up period.

Results

During a median follow-up of 3.0 (2.8–6.9) years, 1,348 individuals (27.9%) developed frailty. Compared to those using vegetable oil, users of animal fat oil had a lower risk of frailty (HR = 0.72, 95% CI: 0.61–0.85). Participants who switched from vegetable oil to animal fat oil, as well as those consistently using animal fat oil, had lower risks of frailty with HRs of 0.70 (0.52–0.95) and 0.63 (0.51–0.77) respectively, compared to those who consistently used vegetable oil. Conversely, individuals who switched from animal fat oil to vegetable oil experienced an increased risk of frailty (HR: 1.41, 95% CI: 1.01–1.97).

Conclusions

The utilization of animal fat oil in cooking exhibited a reduced frailty risk among older adults. Conversely, transitioning from animal fat oil to vegetable oil may elevate the risk. These findings propose that substituting vegetable oil with animal fat oil in the diet may safeguard against frailty.
Delay in the diagnosis of Brucella abortus bacteremia in a nonendemic country: a case report
Authors: Park Jae Hyeon , Kim Taek Soo , Park Hyunwoong , Kang Chang Kyung
Published: May 2024

Background

It is challenging to diagnose brucellosis in nonendemic regions because it is a nonspecific febrile disease. The accurate identification of Brucella spp. in clinical microbiology laboratories (CMLs) continues to pose difficulties. Most reports of misidentification are for B. melitensis, and we report a rare case of misidentified B. abortus.

Case presentation

A 67-year-old man visited an outpatient clinic complaining of fatigue, fever, and weight loss. The patient had a history of slaughtering cows with brucellosis one year prior, and his Brucella antibody tests were negative twice. After blood culture, the administration of doxycycline and rifampin was initiated. The patient was hospitalized due to a positive blood culture. Gram-negative coccobacilli were detected in aerobic blood culture bottles, but the CML's lack of experience with Brucella prevented appropriate further testing. Inaccurate identification results were obtained for a GN ID card of VITEK 2 (bioMérieux, USA) and matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization–time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI–TOF MS) using a MALDI Biotyper (Bruker, Germany). The strain showed 100.0% identity with Brucella spp. according to 16S rRNA sequencing. MALDI–TOF MS peaks were reanalyzed using the CDC MicrobeNet database to determine Brucella spp. (score value: 2.023). The patient was discharged after nine days of hospitalization and improved after maintaining only doxycycline for six weeks. The isolate was also identified as Brucella abortus by genomic evidence.

Conclusion

Automated identification instruments and MALDI–TOF MS are widely used to identify bacteria in CMLs, but there are limitations in accurately identifying Brucella spp. It is important for CMLs to be aware of the possibility of brucellosis through communication with clinicians. Performing an analysis with an additional well-curated MALDI–TOF MS database such as Bruker security-relevant (SR) database or CDC MicrobeNet database is helpful for quickly identifying the genus Brucella.