bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vertebral monstrosities: Phenotypically shortened fish with deformed vertebrae in endemic fish genus Hypselobarbus (Bleeker 1860), (Teleostei: Cyprinidae) from Western Ghats, India
Authors: M. Jeevan T. , Devadas Dayal , Ramteke Karan Kumar , Jaiswar A. K.
Published: August 2023

The vertebral deformity in four fish species of genus Hypselobarbus (Bleeker 1860), collected from three different river systems of the Western Ghats, biodiversity hotspot of India, are reported here. The radiographic images revealed reduced intra-vertebral space in comparison with the normal vertebrae. The phenotypic deformities have led to the deepening of the body with a more robust and reduced length. The deformed vertebrae were between 25 and 32. Slight genetic divergence of 1.1% between normal and deformed specimens in Mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 gene of Hypselobarbus lithopidos and H. thomassi and no divergence in H. dobsoniand H. jerdoni was observed. Several environmental and genetic factors might have influenced the development of these robust short-bodied phenotypes in these rivers and possess slight genetic divergence from normal specimens. The specimens were collected from areas with high anthropogenic stresses, abate water quality, and habitat, which could also be a possible reason. However, these deformities may also be the result of the stress during embryonic and early life stages.
A Descriptive Study of Needlestick or Sharps Injuries in National Healthcare Group Polyclinics Dental Clinics in Singapore From 2014-2020
Authors: Wong Vivian , Chao Priscilla , Lee Sabrina , Lee Eng , Lang Lily , Koh Holy , Low Kenneth
Published: August 2023

Introduction
All dental staff face risk of needlestick or sharps injuries (NSI). Many instruments used in dental procedures are sharp.
Aim
This study aims to identify factors associated with NSI among dental staff by evaluating circumstances and staff designation involved. This allows targeted intervention to prevent/reduce NSI.
Methods
NSIs were reported through an electronic incident reporting system from 2014 to 2020. Reports included nature and extent involved. Statistical analysis was carried out to find associations between factors such as injury site, type of instrument and staff designation.
Results
A total of 63 NSIs were included in this study. The type of device was found to be significantly associated with staff designation (p=0.04, p<0.05) with significantly more dental burs causing injury in dentists and more injuries caused by ‘other instruments’ in health attendants (p= 0.0083). Staff designation was significantly associated with the instance where sharp incident occurred (p <0.001). Dentists and dental assistants were more likely to sustain injuries during a dental procedure than before procedure and after procedure (p=0.0167).
Conclusions
Dentists are prone to NSI due to the use of dental burs and needles. Targeted interventions might help prevent NSIs.
Granular Vortex Spin-Torque Nano Oscillator for Reservoir Computing
Authors: Shreya Sonal , Jenkins Alex , Rezaeiyan Yasser , Li Ren , Bohnert Tim , Ferreira Ricardo , Moradi Farshad , Farkhani Hooman
Published: August 2023

In this paper, we investigate the granularity in the free layer of the magnetic tunnel junctions (MTJ) and its potential to function as a reservoir for reservoir computing where grains act as oscillatory neurons while the device is in the vortex state. The input of the reservoir is applied in the form of a magnetic field which can pin the vortex core into different grains of the device in the magnetic vortex state. The oscillation frequency and MTJ resistance vary across different grains in a non-linear fashion making them great candidates to be served as the reservoir's outputs for classification objectives. Hence, we propose an experimentally validated area-efficient single granular vortex spin-torque nano oscillator (GV-STNO) device in which pinning sites work as random reservoirs that can emulate neuronal functions. We harness the nonlinear oscillation frequency and resistance exhibited by the vortex core granular pinning of the GV-STNO reservoir computing system to demonstrate waveform classification.
An assessment of Inside surface temperature (Tin) upon introduction of green facade of varying Leaf Area Index (LAI), through mathematical model
Authors: Mitra Sreemoyee , Das Vinay Mohan
Published: August 2023

Increasing urbanization has led to the deterioration of green space, raising concerns about the environmental impact and quality of urban living. In response to these challenges, the concept of green façades has emerged as a promising solution, particularly in enhancing the energy efficiency of built structures. This study aims to explore the thermal behavior of opaque constructions when integrated with vegetation during high radiation phases, focusing on the geographical location of Delhi. The mathematical model proposed by Susorova is employed to investigate the impact of foliage and façade orientation on the inside surface temperature (Tin) of walls. The independent factors considered are leaf area index (LAI) and incoming radiation, as they significantly influence thermal performance. Specifically, the study reveals that the effect of LAI varies during direct and diffused radiation phases. For eastern and western façades, an LAI of 1 or 2 yields the most significant reduction in Tin during high radiation phases, whereas the northern façade benefits from an LAI of 4 due to its exposure to diffused radiation. The southern façade exhibits a similar pattern as western and eastern façades, but with minimal variation in temperature magnitude. Additionally, the study delves into the contribution of short-wave radiation, long-wave radiation, and convective heat/gain in the heat balance equation, studying their influence with varying LAI. The findings of this research provide valuable insights for designing green façades on vertical structures in similar climatic conditions to optimize passive cooling and overall energy efficiency.
Phylogenetic relationship between Contracaecum spp. (Nematoda, Anisakidae) parasitizing cormorants (Aves, Phalacrocoracidae) from Argentina
Authors: Garbin Lucas Emiliano , Servián Andrea , Fuentes Lautaro , Morgenthaler Annick , Millones Ana , Fuchs Daniela , Diaz Julia Inés , Navone Graciela Teresa
Published: August 2023

Anisakidae nematodes have a wide host and geographic distribution. Species of the genus Contracaecum parasitize aquatic organisms such as piscivorous birds and mammals as their definitive hosts. Several Contracaecum species have been reported parasitizing Phalacrocoracidae in South America. The aim of this work is to highlight phylogenetic relationships between Contracaecum species parasitizing shags based on both molecular markers and the papillae pattern arrangement on the male tail. Some Contracaecum specimens parasitizing Red-legged cormorants from the Ría Deseado (RD), and other nematodes parasitizing eight dead Neotropic cormorants from San Miguel del Monte lagoon (SMML), Argentina, were collected and analyzed. An integrative analysis allowed us to recognize Contracaecum chubutensis parasitizing Phalacrocorax gaimardi, and Contracaecum australe parasitic in Phalacrocorax brasilianus. According to obtained mtDNAcox2, ITS1, ITS2, and SSrRNA isolates, Contracaecum sp. parasitizing P. gaimardi matched with the previously reported C. chubutensis parasitizing P. atriceps from Bahía Bustamante, Chubut province. Likewise, Contracaecum sp. isolates parasitizing P. brasilianus clustered with C. australe from Chile. Besides, the papillae pattern arrangement of the male tail allowed us to understand the interspecific and genetic relationships between the Contracaecum species. The analysis confirm that C. chubutensis specimens parasitizing P. gaimardi from RD represent a new host and the southernmost record for the species. Whereas, those C. australe specimens parasitizing P. brasilianus from SMML provide a new geographical record for the species and the extension of its distribution range. Present results also confirm the inland and marine distribution of C. australe and C. chubutensis, respectively.
In Situ Graphene Synthesis Study in Inductively Coupled Radiofrequency Thermal Plasma Reactor using Methane Precursor
Authors: Mahmoud Reem , Gitzhofer François , Blanchard Jasmin , Abatzoglou Nicolas
Published: August 2023

While numerous studies are available on methane pyrolysis chemical kinetics and the effect of plasma parameters on graphene synthesis, a comprehensive understanding of the formation mechanism remains elusive without in situ analysis. This study aims to utilize a sampling probe for the first time to collect graphene locally on transmission electron microscopy grids and perform a localized sampling and analysis of the gas composition (during graphene synthesis) using mass spectrometry. This technique provides a 3D tracking of methane pyrolysis in radiofrequency inductively coupled thermal plasma reactor for graphene production. Response surface methodology based on central composite design is employed to obtain a 3D visualization of the synthesis process. Quadratic and cubic models are developed, followed by comprehensive analysis of variance. A comparison of the gas-phase chemistry resulting from the in situ measurements with thermodynamic equilibrium calculations reveals that the process is controlled by thermochemical kinetics. H2, C2H2, C2H4, C3H6, and C6H6, as well as residual CH4, are the main hydrocarbons found in the graphene nucleation zone. The primary pathway for methane pyrolysis and graphene formation in RF plasma is through H2 and C2 hydrocarbons, while graphene nucleation and growth reactions are terminated 350 mm from the plasma torch nozzle exit. Morphology, quality, mean particle size, and the number of layers of the produced graphene samples, locally collected at different locations by 3D axisymmetric probe scanning, were investigated using TEM, high-resolution TEM imaging, and Raman analysis. The gathered information is highly valuable for plasma reactor design.
Social Welfare Receipt, Race, and Participatory Behavior
Authors: Davis Brandon
Published: August 2023

This paper examines how the resources associated with the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, and the Unemployment Insurance program affect political participation. The research on policy feedback on mass publics has produced greater results relative to research on feedback and political participation. However, prior research has not disaggregated resource feedback effects thoroughly enough to decipher whether the monetary resources provided by a social welfare program are independent of the effects of the duration of receipt nor have they disaggregated the effects by race to estimate the racialized feedback effects. This is crucial because the primary questions surrounding the development of social welfare programs are: who should get it, how much they should get, and how long they should get it for. Research has also found that social welfare programs can produce disparate resource feedback effects, both encouraging and discouraging participatory behavior. To answer these questions, I utilize the 1997 National Longitudinal Survey of Youth. I incorporate three comprehensive measures of social welfare receipt which allow the estimation of the effects over time. I find that the amount of aid received, and the duration of receipt are both significant factors in shaping participatory behavior but depending on the program I find heterogeneous effects. The disparate effects persist across social welfare programs and race.
Residential proximity to metal emitting industries and toenail metal concentration in the US Gulf States
Authors: Lin Joyce JY , Werder Emily , Lawrence Kaitlyn G , II W. Braxton Jackson , Sandler Dale P , Dickerson Aisha S , Engel Lawrence S , Rule Ana M
Published: August 2023

Objective: The US Gulf region is heavily reliant on metal-emitting petrochemical and manufacturing industries. We characterized the effect of residential proximity to metal-emitting sites and metal body burden in Gulf states residents with particular attention to potential differential exposure burden by race.
Methods: We measured toenail concentrations of arsenic, chromium, lead, manganese, mercury, and selenium using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry in 413 non-smoking men from the Gulf Long-term Follow-Up Study. Point sources of industrial metal emissions were identified using the US EPA’s National Emissions Inventory (NEI) database and geocoded to participant residential addresses. For each metal, we assessed associations of toenail metal concentrations with the inverse-distance weighted number of emissions sites and volume of air-metal emissions within 30 km radial buffers of participant residences using multivariable linear regression. Results were stratified by race.
Results: Compared to self-identified Non-Hispanic (NH) White participants, NH Black participants lived closer to NEI sites but had 23-70% lower toenail metal concentrations adjusting for other personal/behavioral factors. Residential proximity to lead-emitting NEI sites was positively associated with toenail Pb concentration while proximity to mercury-emitting NEI sites was inversely associated with toenail Hg concentration. Findings for lead were significantly attenuated after adjustment for neighborhood-level socioeconomic factors.
Conclusion: Residential proximity to lead-emitting NEI sites in the US Gulf region is associated with a higher body burden of lead. However, this relationship may be driven in part by non-NEI factors related to residence in industry-adjacent neighborhoods.
Acacia nodule-associated bacteria induced plant growth promotion and soil N availability
Authors: Yu Lina , You Fang , Wu Songlin , Lu Zhaohua , Huang Longbin
Published: August 2023

Background and aims
Legume-rhizobia symbiotic N fixing potentially contribute to restoring fertility in mined land during rehabilitation efforts. Particularly, Acacia spp. stands out as an important legume of native vegetation, while their symbiotic relationship development and impacts on soil rehabilitation have not been fully understood.
Methods
In our glasshouse experiment, symbiosis relationship between three Acacia species (A. holosericea, A. ampliceps, and A. auriculiformis) and bacterial inoculum (Acacia nodule-associated bacteria (NAB), Bradyrhizobium diazoefficient CB1809, and Rhizobium leguminosarum bv viciae RLV248) and the effects of seedling ages on nodule formation were investigated. Additionally, the symbiotic nodule development and their the impacts on plant growth, plant N acquisition, and soil N availability were compared.
Results
The results revealed all three Acacia seedlings successfully formed nodules, with each displaying distinct morphology. Seedlings at 8 weeks demonstrated higher efficacy to form nodules than the those of 12 and 16 weeks old. A. auriculiformis is mostly effective to form nodules with all bacterial inoculums, especially with NAB. Rhizobium in A. auriculiformis nodules are dominated by Bradyrhizobium. Mesorhizobium is predominant in A. ampliceps nodules. Both Bradyrhizobium and Mesorhizobium are highly abundant in the nodules of A. holosericea. Symbiotic nodule development also induced plant growth promotion and N acquisition, with CB1809 the mostly effective. Notably, NAB inoculation could significantly enhanced soil N availability in addition to promoting plant growth.
Conclusion
These findings underscore the significance of Acacia-NAB symbiosis as a beneficial strategy to boost plant growth, increase soil N availability, and potentially aid in ecological rehabilitation endeavors.
Regulatory mechanism for the human glioblastoma cell-specific expression of the human GD1c/GT1a/GQ1b synthase (hST8Sia V) gene
Authors: An So-Young , Lee Ji-Won , Kim Hee-Do , Kim Kyoung-Sook , Cho Jong-Hyun , Kim Cheorl-Ho , Lee Young-Choon
Published: August 2023

In this study we observed that human GD1c/GT1a/GQ1b synthase (hST8Sia V) is particularly expressed in human glioblastoma cells. To address the mechanism regulating human glioblastoma-specific gene expression of the hST8Sia V, after the transcription start site (TSS) was identified by the 5’-rapid amplification of cDNA end with total RNA from human glioblastoma U87MG cells, the 5’-flanking region (2.5 kb) of the hST8Sia V gene was isolated and its promoter activity was examined. By luciferase reporter assay, this 5’-flanking region revealed strong promoter activity in only U-87MG cells, but not in other tissue-derived cancer cells. 5’-deletion mutant analysis showed that the region from -1140 to -494 is crucial for transcription of the hST8Sia V gene in U87MG cells. This region contains the activator protein-1 (AP-1) binding site, the main target of the c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) downstream. The AP-1 binding site at -1043/-1037 was proved to be indispensable for the hST8Sia V gene-specific expression in U87MG cells by site-directed mutagenesis. Moreover, the transcriptional activation of hST8Sia V gene in U87MG cells was strongly inhibited by a specific JNK inhibitor, SP600125. These results suggest that the hST8Sia V gene-specific expression in U87MG cells is controlled by JNK/AP-1 signaling pathway.
Synthesis of dual-modified Fe-doped and carbon-coated Li4Ti5O12 anode based on industrial H2TiO3 for Li-ion batteries
Authors: Jiang Xinyu , Ma Guangqiang , Chen Qiyuan , Ge Hongwei , Yan Beilei , Deng Lin , Tian Congxue , Wu Chuanbao , Zhu Qinmei
Published: August 2023

Spinel Li4Ti5O12 (LTO) is a promising candidate for lithium-ion battery anodes because of its exceptional stability and safety. However, its extensive application is limited by a high comprehensive cost, poor electronic conductivity, and other inherent defects. This work presents a novel synthesis procedure to synthesize carbon-coated Fe-doped LTO composites through carbon reduction, in the presence of Fe-containing industrial H2TiO3 as the titanium source, and glucose as the carbon source. The presence of the Fe-dopant is confirmed through XRD, with Rietveld refinement and EDS experiments. Results show that Fe2+ replaces a portion of Ti4+ after doping, leading to an increase in the LTO cell parameters and the corresponding cell volume. FLTO/C, presents a capacity of 153.79 mAh g-1 at 10 C, and the capacity decay per cycle is only 0.0074% after 1000 cycles at 5 C. Moreover, EIS experiments indicate that the incorporation of Fe and carbon lowers the charge transfer resistance and improves the diffusion and migration of Li+. Notably, since this preparation process requires no additional Fe source as a raw material, it is simple, cost-effective, and suitable for large-scale production and further application.
Enhancing PLA Toughness with Minimal PBAT Additives: Unveiling the Role of Phase Interface and Particle Size through In Situ Reactive Compatibilization
Authors: Li Lin , Li Tian-xiang , Zhao De-fang , Xie Yu-hui , Wu Feng , Xie Delong , Wang Chi , Liu Yuxin , Mei Yi
Published: August 2023

Polylactide (PLA) was melt blended with low amounts of poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) using a simple reactive extrusion process herein, aiming to address the inherent brittleness of PLA without significantly compromising its stiffness. PLA/PBAT (90/10) blends with a small amount of peroxide (0.02 phr) and a second crosslinker agent TAIC (triallyl isocyanurate) were produced to explore the structure-performance relationship evolution in reactive extrusion. The results showed that the PLA blend with an appropriate amount of TAIC (i.e., 1.0 phr) exhibited a remarkable increase in elongation at break, reaching as high as 76.8%, which was 22 times higher compared to pure PLA and 6.8 times higher than unmodified PLA/PBAT blends. Furthermore, the sample with high elongation also demonstrated a high stiffness, boasting a Young's modulus of 1.6 GPa and a yield strength of 43 MPa. It was evident that both interfacial adhesion and PBAT size significantly influenced the stretchability of the PLA/PBAT blends. The combination of enhanced compatibility and optimized PBAT phase size of approximately 1.0 µm worked synergistically to enhance the toughness of PLA. Notably, either larger or smaller particle sizes did not contribute favorably to enhancing the toughness of PLA, even if compatibility was improved. The addition of small amounts of TAIC successfully reduced the PBAT phase size but did not enhance compatibility, leading to subpar mechanical performance. Conversely, higher TAIC contents resulted in over-crosslinking, despite considerable improvements in compatibility. This study offers a versatile, scalable, and practical method to prepare fully biodegradable PLA blends with high toughness.
Ab initio protein structure prediction – the necessary presence of external force field as it is delivered by Hsp40 chaperone
Authors: Roterman Irena , Stapor K , Konieczny L
Published: August 2023

Background The aqueous environment directs the protein folding process towards the generation of micelle-type structures, which results in the exposure of hydrophilic residues on the surface (polarity) and the concentration of hydrophobic residues in the center (hydrophobic core). Obtaining a structure without a hydrophobic core requires a different type of external force field than those generated by a water. The examples are membrane proteins, where the distribution of hydrophobicity is opposite to that of water-soluble proteins. Apart from these two extreme examples, the process of protein folding can be directed by chaperones, resulting in a structure devoid of a hydrophobic core.Results The current work presents such example: DnaJ Hsp40 in complex with alkaline phosphatase PhoA-U (PDB ID − 6PSI) - the client molecule. The availability of WT form of the folding protein - alkaline phosphatase (PDB ID − 1EW8) enables a comparative analysis of the structures: at the stage of interaction with the chaperone and the final, folded structure of this biologically active protein. The fuzzy oil drop model in its modified FOD-M version was used in this analysis, taking into account the influence of an external force field, in this case coming from a chaperone.Conclusions The FOD-M model identifies the external force field introduced by chaperon influencing the folding proces. The identified specific external force field can be applied in Ab Initio protein structure prediction as the environmental conditioning the folding proces.
Local delivery of Doxorubicin prodrug via lipid nanocapsule-based hydrogel for the treatment of glioblastoma
Authors: Wang Mingchao , Bergès Raphaël , Malfanti Alessio , Préat Véronique , Bastiancich Chiara
Published: August 2023

Glioblastoma (GBM) recurrences appear in most cases around the resection cavity borders and arise from residual GBM cells that cannot be removed by surgery. Here, we propose a novel treatment that combines the advantages of nanomedicine and local drug delivery to target these infiltrating GBM cells. We developed an injectable lipid nanocapsules (LNC)-based formulation loaded with lauroyl-doxorubicin prodrug (DOXC12). Firstly, we demonstrated the efficacy of intratumoral administration of DOXC12 in GL261-GBM-bearing mice, which extended mice survival. Then, we formulated an injectable hydrogel by mixing the appropriate amount of prodrug with the lipophilic components of LNC. We optimized the hydrogel by incorporating cytidine-C16 (Cyt-C16) to achieve a mechanical stiffness adapted for an application in the brain post-surgery (DOXC12-LNCCL). DOXC12-LNCCL exhibited high DOXC12 encapsulation efficiency (95%) and a size of approximately 60 nm with sustained drug release in vitro for over 1 month. DOXC12-LNCCL exhibited enhanced cytotoxicity compared to free DOXC12 (IC50 of 49 and 89 nM, respectively) on GL261 GBM cells and prevented growth of GL261 spheroids cultured on organotypic brain slices. In vivo, post-surgical treatment with DOXC12-LNCCL significantly improved the survival of GL261-bearing mice. The combination of this local treatment with the systemic administration of anti-inflammatory drug ibuprofen further delayed the onset of recurrences. In conclusion, our study presents a promising therapeutic approach for the treatment of GBM. By targeting residual GBM cells and reducing the inflammation post-surgery, we present a new strategy to delay the onset of recurrences in the gap period between surgery and standard of care therapy.
Inhibiting Anti-angiogenic VEGF165b Activates a Novel miR-17-20a-Calcipressin-3 Pathway that Revascularizes Ischemic Muscle in Peripheral Artery Disease
Authors: Ganta Vijay , Batan Sonia , Kuppuswamy Sivaraman , Wood Madison , Reddy Meghana , Annex Brian
Published: August 2023

Background: VEGF165a increases the expression of microRNA-17-92 cluster, promoting developmental, retinal, and tumor angiogenesis. We have previously shown that VEGF165b, an alternatively spliced VEGF-A isoform, inhibits the VEGFR-STAT3 pathway in ischemic endothelial cells (ECs) to decrease their angiogenic capacity. In ischemic macrophages (Møs), VEGF165b inhibits VEGFR1 to induce S100A8/A9 expression, which drives M1-like polarization. Our current study aims to determine whether VEGF165b inhibition promotes perfusion recovery by regulating the miR-17-92 cluster in preclinical PAD.
Methods: Hind limb ischemia (HLI) induced by femoral artery ligation and resection was used as a preclinical PAD model. Hypoxia serum starvation (HSS) was used as an in vitro PAD model. VEGF165b was inhibited/neutralized by an isoform-specific VEGF165b antibody.
Results: Systematic analysis of miR-17-92 cluster members (miR-17-18a-19a-19b-20a-92) in experimental-PAD models showed that VEGF165b-inhibition induces miRNA-17-20a (within miR-17-92 cluster) in HSS-ECs and HSS-bone marrow derived macrophages (BMDMs) vs. respective normal and/or isotype matched IgG controls to enhance perfusion-recovery. Consistent with the bioinformatics analysis that revealed RCAN3 as a common target of miR-17 and miR-20a, Argonaute-2 pull-down assays showed decreased miR-17-20a expression and higher RCAN3 expression in the RISC complex of HSS-ECs and HSS-BMDMs vs. the respective controls. Inhibiting miR-17-20a induced RCAN3 levels to decrease ischemic angiogenesis and promoted M1-like polarization to impair perfusion recovery. Finally, using STAT3 inhibitors, S100A8/A9 silencers and VEGFR1-deficient ECs and Møs, we show that VEGF165b inhibition activates the miR-17-20a-RCAN3 pathway independent of VEGFR1-STAT3 or VEGFR1-S100A8/A9 in ischemic ECs and ischemic Møs, respectively.
Conclusion: Our data revealed a hereunto unrecognized therapeutic ‘miR-17-20a-RCAN3’ pathway in the ischemic vasculature that is VEGFR1-STAT3/S100A8/A9 independent and is activated only upon VEGF165b inhibition in PAD.
Immunomodulatory Effect of Probiotic Exopolysaccharides in a Porcine in vitro Co-culture Model Mimicking the Intestinal Environment on ETEC Infection
Authors: Kiššová Zuzana , Mudroňová Dagmar , Link Róbert , Tkáčiková Ľudmila
Published: August 2023

The aim of this study was to evaluate the immunomodulatory effect of EPS-L26 isolated from the probiotic strain Lactobacillus (Limosilactobacillus) reuteri L26 BiocenolTM, in a model of infection with an enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC) by establishing monocultures consisting of the IPEC-J2 cell line or monocyte-derived dendritic cells (moDCs) and creating a 3D model of cell co-cultures established with IPEC-J2 cells and moDCs. The immunomodulatory and immunoprotective potential of used EPS-L26 was confirmed in monocultures in an experimental group of pretreated cells, where our study showed that pretreatment of cells with EPS-L26 and subsequent exposure to infection resulted in significantly down-regulated mRNA levels of genes encoding inflammatory cytokines compared to ETEC challenge in single cell cultures (in IPEC-J2, decreased mRNA levels for TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, IL-12p35; in moDCs, decreased mRNA levels for IL-1β). Similar to monocultures, we also demonstrated the immunostimulatory potential of the ETEC strain in the co-culture model on directly treated IPEC-J2 cells cultivated on insert chambers (apical compartment) and also on indirectly treated moDCs cultivated in the lower chamber (basolateral compartment), however in the co-culture model the expression of inflammatory cytokines was attenuated at the mRNA level compared to monocultures. Pretreatment of the cells on the insert chambers pointed to the immunoprotective properties of EPS-L26, manifested by decreased mRNA levels in both cell lines compared to ETEC challenge (in IPEC-J2 decreased mRNA levels for IL-12p35; in moDCs decreased mRNA levels for IL-1β, IL-6). Our results suggest intercellular communication via humoral signals derived from IPEC-J2 cells by influencing the gene expression of indirectly treated moDC cells located in the basolateral compartment.
Impact of IL-6 rs1800795 and IL-17A rs2275913 Gene Polymorphisms on the COVID-19 Prognosis and Susceptibility in a Sample of Iranian Patients
Authors: Khafaei Mostafa , Asghari Reza , zafari fariba , sadeghi morteza
Published: August 2023

Background:
Elevated levels of interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-17A have been linked to hyper inflammation in COVID-19 patients, and their levels are indicative of the progression of the disease. This study aimed to investigate whether single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in IL-6 and IL-17A are linked to COVID-19 susceptibility and prognosis in Iranian patients.
Methods:
The study enrolled 280 COVID-19 patients, divided into 140 non-severe and 140 severe cases. Genotyping for IL-6 rs1800795 and IL-17A rs2275913 was performed using tetra primer-amplification refractory mutation system-polymerase chain reaction (tetra-ARMS-PCR). IL-6 and IL-17A circulating levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The study also investigated predictors of COVID-19 mortality.
Results:
The rs1800795 GG genotype (78/140 (55.7%)) and G allele (205/280 (73.2%)) were significantly associated with a higher risk of severe COVID-19 infection (OR = 2.19, 95%CI: 1.35–3.54, P = .006 and OR = 1.79, 95%CI: 1.25–2.56, P < .001, respectively). The rs1800795 GG genotype was also significantly linked to disease mortality (OR = 1.95, 95%CI: 1.06–3.61, P = .04). In contrast, the rs2275913 GA genotype was found to be protective against severe COVID-19 (OR = 0.5, 95%CI: 0.31–0.80, P = .012), but no significant association was observed with disease mortality. Several predictors of COVID-19 mortality were identified, including INR ≥ 1.2 (OR = 2.19, 95%CI: 1.61–3.78, P = .007), D-dimer ≥ 565.5 ng/mL (OR = 3.12, 95%CI: 1.27–5.68, P = .019), respiratory rate ≥ 29 (OR = 1.19, 95%CI: 1.12–1.28, P = .001), IL-6 serum concentration ≥ 28.5 pg/mL (OR = 1.97, 95%CI: 1.942–2.06, P = .013), and IL-6 rs1800795 GG genotype (OR = 1.95, 95%CI: 1.06–3.61, P = .04).
conclusion:
The results of this study suggest that the rs1800795 GG genotype and G allele are associated with greater disease severity in COVID-19 patients, while the rs2275913 GA genotype is protective. These findings provide insights into the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying COVID-19 and may inform the development of more effective therapies and prognostic tools for this disease.
Dominance of Cotton leaf curl Multan virus-Rajasthan strain associated with third epidemic of cotton leaf curl disease in Pakistan
Authors: Mahmood Muhammad Arslan , Ahmed Nasim , Hussain Athar , Naqvi Rubab Zahra , Amin Imran , Mansoor Shahid
Published: August 2023

Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) is an economically potent crop in many countries including Pakistan, India, and China. For the last three decades, cotton production is under the constant stress of cotton leaf curl disease (CLCuD) caused by begomoviruses/satellites complex that is transmitted through the insect pest, whitefly (Bemisia tabaci). Previously, in 2018, we have identified a highly recombinant strain; Cotton leaf curl Multan virus-Rajasthan (CLCuMuV-Raj) associated with the single strain of Cotton leaf curl Multan betasatellite-Vehari (CLCuMuBVeh) that are dominant in cotton-growing hub areas of central Punjab, Pakistan causing third CLCuD epidemic. In the present study, we have explored the CLCuD diversity from central to southern districts of Punjab (Faisalabad, Lodhran, Bahawalpur, Rahimyar Khan) and the major cotton-growing region of Sindh (Tandojam), Pakistan for two years (2020-21). Interestingly, we found same virus strain (CLCuMuV-Raj) and associated betasatellite strain that was previously reported with the third epidemic in the central Punjab region. Furthermore, we found minor mutations in two genes of CLCuMuV-Raj C4 and C1 in 2020 and 2021 respectively as compared to its isolates in 2018, which exhibited virus evolution. Surprisingly, we did not find these mutations in CLCuMuV-Raj isolates identified from Sindh province. The findings of the current study represent the stability of CLCuMuV-Raj strain and its spread toward the Sindh province where previously Cotton leaf curl Kokhran virus (CLCuKoV) and Cotton leaf curl Shahdadpur virus (CLCuShV) have been reported. The findings of the current study demand future research on CLCuD complex to explore the possible reasons for prevalence in the field and how the virus-host-vector compatible interaction can be broken to develop resistant cultivars.
Introduction of the potter’s wheel as a reflection of social and economic changes during the La Tène period in Central Europe
Authors: Thér Richard , Mangel Tomáš
Published: August 2023

The use of the potter’s wheel or, more generally, rotational motion in pottery-forming was one of the fundamental innovations in pottery technology. This study focuses on the introduction of pottery-forming methods employing rotational movement in relation to social and economic conditions and their transformations during the La Tène period in Central Europe. It builds on our previous work and explores the diversity of technological practices on a broader geographical scale in several regions of the Czech Republic with various demographic, social and environmental conditions during the period. The analysis relies on a recently developed quantitative analytical technique based on calculating the orientation of components of the ceramic body. This approach enhances the structural analysis by delineating intervals of orientation variability for individual forming techniques. This methodology is applied to estimate the contribution of rotational movement in pottery-forming and identify the initial forming techniques. The quantitative analysis of thin sections is supplemented by qualitative classification of diagnostic features observed on X-ray images and CT reconstructions. By implementing this analysis, we have discovered specific developments of pottery-forming practices in the selected regions. The specifics demonstrate the expected links of the studied innovation to local socio-economic conditions, as well as surprising findings indicating that neither the use of the technology nor the resulting products are subject to unilateral selection based on the criterion of economic efficiency.
Establishment and verification of a nomogram to predict risk and prognostic factors of triple-negative breast cancer with organ metastasis based on the SEER cohort study
Authors: Niu Yingjie , Chen Qiuyun , Ni Yi , Zhu Renfei , Wu Jinzhu , Liu Lei , Xu Tonglin
Published: August 2023

Background:This study aims to identify the risk and prognostic factors of TNBC patients with organ metastasis, furthermore, establish and validate a nomogram to forecast the overall survival (OS).
Methods:The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database was used to collect the clinicopathological data of TNBC patients from 2010 to 2020. All the TNBC patients were divided into two groups: no organ metastasis cohort (n = 32154) and organ metastasis cohort (n = 1199) based on the presence or absence of organ metastasis, including liver, lung, bone, and brain). TNBC patients with organ metastasis were further randomly assigned into a training cohort and testing cohort in a 7:3 ratio. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were used to identify the independent prognostic factors. A nomogram was developed to predict the OS for TNBC patients with organ metastasis. The calibration curve, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) area under the curve (AUC), and the decision curve analysis (DCA) were used to estimate the accuracy and clinical effectiveness of the nomogram.
Results: The median OS after organ metastasis was 12 months and 62 months in the group without organ metastasis. The 2-year survival rate in the liver metastasis cohort was 14.88%, the bone metastasis cohort was 22.17%, the lung metastasis cohort was 25.17% and the brain metastasis cohort was 12.08%. Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that age, T stage, surgery, and chemotherapy were independent factors affecting prognosis in the group with organ metastasis. The nomogram was established by the aforementioned variables.
Conclusions:TNBC patients with organ metastasis had a worse prognosis. Age, T stage, surgery, and chemotherapy were independent prognostic factors of TNBC patients with organ metastasis. The nomogram was recommended for TNBC patients with organ metastasis and helped to make personalized clinical treatment plans.
Transcriptome analysis of reproductive tract tissues of male river prawn Macrobrachium americanum
Authors: Martín-Manzo Miriam Victoria , Morelos-Castro Rosa María , Munguia-Vega Adrian , Soberanes-Yepiz Maritza Lourdes , Cortés-Jacinto Edilmar
Published: August 2023

The river prawn,Macrobrachium americanum (M. americanum), is one of the largest prawns of the genus in Latin America and is an amphidromous species distributed along the Pacific coast of America. This prawn has commercial value due to its size and taste, making it a good option for aquaculture production. Its culture has been attempted in ponds and concrete tanks, but no successful technique can still support commercial production. Understanding the mechanisms that regulate reproduction at the molecular level is very important. This knowledge can provide tools for manipulating transcripts, which could increase the number or size of animals in the culture. However, our understanding of the mechanism that regulates the reproduction ofM. americanumat the molecular level is limited. In this study, we performed transcriptome assembly of the testes, vas deferens, and terminal ampulla ofM. americanum.The cDNA library was constructed and sequenced for each tissue to identify novel transcripts. A combined transcriptome with the three tissues was assembled using Trinity software. Unigenes were annotated using BLASTx and BLAST2GO. The transcriptome assembly generated 1,059,447 unigenes, of which 7,222 genes had significant hits (e-value < 1x10− 5) when compared against the Swiss-Prot database. Around 75 genes were related to sex determination, testis development, spermatogenesis, spermiogenesis, fertilization, maturation of testicular cells, neuropeptides, hormones, hormone receptors, and/or embryogenesis. These results provide new molecular information aboutM. americanumreproduction, representing a reference point for further genetic studies of this species.
Dynamic Weight Assignment with Least Connection Approach for Enhanced Load Balancing in Distributed Systems
Authors: Almhanna Mahdi S. , Murshedi Tariq A. , Al-Turaihi Firas S. , Almuttairi Rafah M. , Wankar Rajeev
Published: August 2023

Load balancing is a critical aspect of managing server resources efficiently and ensuring optimal performance in distributed systems. The Weighted Round Robin (WRR) algorithm is commonly used to allocate incoming requests among servers based on their assigned weights. However, static weights may not reflect the changing demands of servers, leading to imbalanced workloads. To address this issue, this study proposes a dynamic mechanism for assigning weights to servers in the WRR algorithm based on the data rate and incorporates the Least Connection approach for the best result. The dynamic mechanism takes into account the real-time data rate of each server, representing its current load. Servers with higher data rates are assigned higher weights to attract a larger share of incoming requests, while those with lower data rates receive lower weights to manage their loads effectively. This dynamic weight assignment allows the algorithm to adapt to varying workloads and achieve better load balancing across servers. To further refine the distribution of requests, the Least Connection approach is employed to handle tie-breaking situations and for more fairness in distributing the loads. The proposed algorithm is a hybrid of data rate and the Least Connection, it is evaluated through simulations and real-world experiments. The results demonstrate its superiority in achieving improved load balance compared to traditional static-weight WRR algorithms. By dynamically adjusting weights based on data rate and employing the Least Connection approach, the algorithm optimizes server resource usage, minimizes response times, and enhances overall system performance in distributed environments.
Comparative Analysis of Complete Mitochondrial Genomes of Four Tapeworms (Platyhelminthes: Cestoda) and Specific Primers for Identifying the Tapeworms from Chinese soft-shelled turtles (Pelodiscus sinensis)
Authors: Zhang Xincheng , Ren Tong , Zhang Jiping , Li Qingyong , Li Jiansong , Chen Chen , Wang Yakun , Ji Liqin , Hong Xiaoyou , Liu Xiaoli , Lei Luo , Zhu Junxian , Wang Yongchang , Wu Congcong , Chen Haigang , Su Junyu , Zhu Xinping , Li Wei
Published: August 2023

Testudotaenia sp. WL-2016(Platyhelminthes, Cestoda), as a member of Onchoproteocephalidea, was isolated from Pelodiscus sinensis in our previous study in 2016 (GenBank: KU761587.1). It was a new tapeworm found in China, and the only mitochondrial DNA of Testudotaenia reported worldwide. Traditional classification methods are challenging to identify specific cestode species rapidly for performing taxonomic research and disease control studies.We annotated the mitochondrial genome based on the previous sequencing, including analyses of nucleotide composition, codon usage. Ka/Ks, p‑distance, the nucleotide and amino acid similarity of the mitochondrial genomes of Dipylidium caninum, Digramma interrupta, Spirometra erinaceieuropaei, Testudotaenia sp. WL-2016 were analyzed and compared. Testudotaenia sp. WL-2016 and 65 others related cestodes were used to construct a phylogenetic tree with 10 common genes. We chose the trnG and COX3 genes to design specific PCR primers for identification. Testudotaenia sp. WL-2016 was strongly skewed away from A and biased towards G (AT skew= −0.292, GC skew= 0.22). Corresponding to the high T content (42.71%), codons also show relatively high T bias. Both Ka/Ks and p‑distance were less than 1. Data from the mitochondrial genome of Testudotaenia sp. WL-2016 is also valuable for species identification, phylogenies, and biogeography studies. The specific PCR primers enabled us to identify Testudotaenia sp. WL-2016rapidly and accurately at the molecular level, thus providing a basis for classification and identification.
Determinants of credit-seeking among women farmers in southeastern Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Balasha Arsene Mushagalusa , Fyama Jules Nkulu Mwine , Lenge Emery Kasongo , Tambwe Alex Nyumbaiza
Published: August 2023

Smallholder women farmers play a crucial role in agricultural food production and rural development but have limited access to the necessary productive resources. This study sheds light on factors associated with credit-seeking among smallholder women farmers in the Democratic Republic of Congo, explores priority areas for credit allocation, and investigates the role of Village Savings and Loan Associations in providing mutual financial assistance. We collected data from 232 women marshland farmers in Kabare, South Kivu, and Mulungwishi, Upper Katanga, through interviews and two focus groups. Findings indicate that more female farmers in Upper Katanga (60%) intended to seek credit than in South Kivu (48%). Their intention to do so was associated with factors such as age, discussion with fellow farmers, landholding status perception, market access, income generated, and decision-making within the household. Further, findings showed that the absence of microfinance institutions, the lack of credit-related information, and stereotypes around women are considered major limiting factors to accessing credit. This situation has prompted 35% of women farmers to engage in Village Savings and Loan associations, enabling them to support each other and overcome financing challenges. Although there is a notable contrast between the two study areas and the type and amount of credit needed, purchasing agricultural inputs to enhance agricultural productivity is the primary focus for most farmers. The findings provide directions for formulating policies and initiatives that support financial inclusion and offer credit products that meet the specific needs of farmers to sustain inclusive rural development.
Fokas-Lenells equation dark soliton and gauge equivalent spin equation
Authors: Dutta Riki , Talukdar Sagardeep , Saharia Gautam Kumar , Nandy Sudipta
Published: August 2023

We propose the Hirota bilinearization of the Fokas-Lenells derivative nonlinear Schrödinger equation with a non-vanishing background. The bilinear method is applied using an auxilary function to obtain the dark one soliton solution, dark two soliton solution and eventually the scheme for obtaining dark N soliton solutions. The use of auxilary function in bilinearization makes the method simpler than the ones reported earlier. Later, we have introduced a Lax pair for this integrable equation and using a transformation we have shown that this system is gauge equivalent to a spin system, namely the Landau-Lifshitz equation.
Mapping the QTLs associated with pre and post-anthesis developmental stages of wheat under normal and heat conditions
Authors: Fard Mohsen Brajeh , Siahpoosh Mohmmad Reza , Modarresi Mohmmad
Published: August 2023

Global warming affects the crop productions. In this regards, a recombinant inbred lines (RILs) population derived from Kauz (heat-tolerant) × Montana (heat sensitive) was used to mapping the quantitative trait locis (QTLs) associated with phenological durations in normal and heat conditions over two years. The range of broad-sense heritability was recorded between 0.55 and 0.90. Ninety three QTLs were identified in the wheat genome, some of which were stable in two years and some in one year with minor and major effects. The most stable QTLs mapped on chromosomes 1A and 5A at 0.01cM and another on chromosome 2D at 22.83cM regions. Chromosome 2D carried 45% of all QTLs detected in the present study. The genetic distance between two gwm132-gwm484 markers on chromosome 2D consisted of QTLs with the highest LOD (19) and R2 (76.9%). This study provides valuable information for genes controlling the phenological stages in bread wheat.