bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cdc6 activity analysis reveals possible unknown function in root meristem cells of Vicia faba
Authors: Musiałek Marcelina W. , Rybaczek Dorota
Published: July 2023

Cell division cycle 6 (Cdc6) protein regulates the licensing of DNA replication, maintains centrosome stability, participates in DNA damage response (DDR) pathways and activates cell cycle checkpoints. The mechanisms responsible for Cdc6 relocation in the cell cycle are evolutionary conserved. Here, we analyzed changes in Cdc6 activity following hydroxyurea-induced replication stress and caffeine-induced premature chromosome condensation (PCC). We used Vicia faba root meristem cells as a model to explore the dynamics of activity changes of Cdc6, Chk1 and Chk2 proteins and their phosphorylated forms (Cdc6Ser54ph, Chk1Ser345ph and Chk2Thr68ph) under the conditions of prolonged replication stress. We observed the areas of increased Cdc6 activity that were not reported for animal cells: (i) the presence of clusters associated with low-density chromatin (euchromatin), (ii) the frequent vicinity of Cdc6 clusters to the most dense regions of constitutive heterochromatin. Cdc6 remains within the nucleus throughout the interphase which may suggest its new, yet unknown function in plants. The results of changes in Cdc6 activity during prolonged replicative stress also indicate that Cdc6 plays an important role in maintaining the cell cycle checkpoint in S phase when stress conditions last longer.
Study on the Influence of Temporal and Spatial Resolution of Rainfall Data on Watershed Flood Simulation Performance
Authors: Pan Xinxin , Hou Jingming , Wang Tian , Li Xinyi , Jing Jing , Chen Guangzhao , Qiao Juan , Guo Qingyuan
Published: July 2023

To investigate the impact of temporal and spatial resolution of rainfall data on watershed flood simulation performance, the rainfall data from meteorological stations and the gridded rainfall data from meteorological forecasts for a rainfall event were adopted in this study. Interpolation methods were applied to generate rainfall processes with different spatial and temporal resolutions. A hydrodynamic model was employed to simulate the flow rates at various sections of the watershed under different rainfall scenarios. The results show that as the spatial and temporal resolutions decreased, the flood variation patterns at various sections remained consistent. Namely, the determination coefficient (R2) decreased, whereas the root means square error (RMSE) and mean absolute error (MAE) increased, and the errors in peak flow rates and the fluctuation amplitudes of the flow rates at the sections increased as well. Moreover, a decrease in temporal resolution led to a delay in the peak flow timing. Significant differences were observed between the simulation results generated from the two different rainfall datasets. The R2 values for the simulated flow rates at each section were all above 0.75 for the observed rainfall data, while 40% of the results based on meteorological forecast data were below 0.5. Overall, the simulation results using observed rainfall data outperformed those using meteorological forecast data. Through the comparative analysis of simulation results including the rainfall characteristic parameters such as the watershed-averaged precipitation (AVP) and the coefficient of variation (CV), it was found that AVP had a strong correlation with the peak flow and its increase or decrease directly affected the peak flow. On the contrary, CV showed a negative correlation with the peak flow.
A Situational Analysis of Ear and Hearing Care in South Korea Using WHO Ear and Hearing Care Situation Analysis Tool
Authors: Yoon Chul Young , Lee Juhyeong , Lee Junhun , Kong Tae Hoon , Seo Young Joon
Published: July 2023

Objectives: The World Health Organization emphasizes lifelong management of hearing diseases and suggests a state-led management program. In addition, the 'Ear and Hearing Care Situation Analysis Tool ' was produced and distributed so that the state-led management program could be implemented well. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to fill 'Ear and Hearing Care Situation Analysis Tool ', understand the current situation of ear and hearing management in Korea, establish a basis for establishing and improving policies related to hearing diseases, and produce data to report to World Health Organization.
Methods: The 'Ear and Hearing Care Situation Analysis Tool 'consists of a total of two sections, 41 questions in Section 1 and 203 questions in Section 2. Section 1 consists of questions that can evaluate health policies and support services. Section 2 consists of questions to evaluate the services and human resources of the ear and hearing management sector.
Results: Policies such as hearing aid support are in place, and outreach services such as free hearing tests are also being actively conducted. In all medical institutions, ear and hearing management treatment could be received, and medication prescriptions could be received without distinction. Workers such as audiologists, language therapists, special education teachers, and sign language interpreters, were specialized because they had well-established guidelines for training.
Conclusion: Overall, the domestic ear and hearing management sector has confirmed that policies and services are well prepared close to advanced countries compared to the current status of countries. It can be reported to World Health Organization to help improve domestic ear and hearing management policies and expand medical services.
Fcγ-receptor-independent controlled activation of CD40 canonical signaling by novel therapeutic antibodies for cancer therapy
Authors: Reitinger Carmen , Beckmann Karsten , Carle Anna , Blümle Eva , Jurkschat Nicole , Paulmann Claudia , Prassl Sandra , Kazandijan Linda V. , Nimmerjahn Falk , Fischer Stephan
Published: July 2023

Activation of CD40-mediated signaling in antigen-presenting cells is a promising therapeutic strategy to promote immune responses against tumors. Most agonistic anti-CD40 antibodies currently in development require Fcγ-receptor (FcγR)-mediated crosslinking of CD40 molecules for meaningful activation of CD40 signaling but have limitations due to dose-limiting toxicities. Here we describe the identification of CD40 antibodies which strongly stimulate antigen-presenting cells in an entirely FcγR independent manner. These Fc-silenced anti-CD40 antibodies induce and efficient upregulation of costimulatory receptors and cytokine release by dendritic cells. Binding to the CD40L interaction region on CD40 appears to be a prerequisite to achieving such strong activities. Finally, the most active identified anti-CD40 antibody shows activity in humanized mice. More importantly, there are no signs of obvious toxicities whereas the clinical-stage anti-CD40 antibody CP-870,893 induced severe signs of toxicity even at a lower dose. These studies thus demonstrate potent activation of antigen-presenting cells with anti-CD40 antibodies lacking FcγR-binding activity and open the possibility for an efficacious and safe combination therapy for cancer patients.
Convergence Results on the General Inertial-Mann-Halpern and General Inertial Mann Algorithms
Authors: Gebregiorgis Solomon , Kumam Poom
Published: July 2023

In this paper, we prove strong convergence theorem of the general inertial Mann-Halpern algorithm for nonexpansive mappings in the setting of Hilbert spaces.we also prove weak convergence theorem of the general inertial Mann algorithmfor k-strict pseudo-contractive mappings in the setting of Hilbert spaces. These convergence results extend and generalize some existing results in the literature.Finally, we provide examples to verify our main results.
Genome-wide investigation to assess copy number variants in the Italian local chicken population
Authors: Cendron Filippo , Cassandro Martino , Penasa Mauro
Published: July 2023

Background
Copy number variation (CNV) holds significant functional and evolutionary importance. Numerous ongoing CNV studies aim to elucidate the etiology of human diseases and gain insights into the population structure of livestock. High-density chips have enabled the detection of CNV with increased resolution, leading to the identification of even small CNV. This study aimed to identify CNV in local chicken breeds and investigate their distribution within the genome.
Results
The distribution of CNV was more prominent in the first six chromosomes and primarily associated with loss types. Most CNV among breeds were of types 0 and 1, and the minimum length of CNV was significantly larger than that reported in previous studies. Interestingly, chromosome 16 had a high proportion of its length covered by copy number variation regions (CNVR), with the major histocompatibility complex being the likely cause. Among the identified genes within CNVR, only those present in at least three animals across breeds (n = 95) were discussed to reduce the focus on redundant CNV. Some of these genes have been associated to functional traits in chickens. Notably, several CNVR on different chromosomes harbor genes related to muscle development, tissue-specific biological processes, heat stress resistance, and immune response. Quantitative trait loci (QTL) were also analyzed to investigate potential overlapping with the identified CNVR: 54 out of the 95 gene-containing regions overlapped with 428 QTLs associated to body weight and size, carcass characteristics, egg production, egg components, fat deposition, and feed intake.
Conclusions
Genomic phenomena that can cause changes in the distribution of CNV within the genome over time and the comparison of the differences among the CNVR of the local chicken breeds reported in the present study could help in their conservation.
Contamination and Health Risk Assessment of Heavy Metals in Soil Surrounding an Automobile Industry factory in JiaXing, China
Authors: Liu Tingting , Wang Zhen
Published: July 2023

The auto parts industry occupies an important strategic position in our national economy, which brings about the pollution problem in the processing of auto parts, especially in the soil polluted by heavy metals. Soil samples were collected from an automobile parts company in Jiaxing, China, and the data were evaluated by the land accumulation index method. It is found that the heavy metal pollution in the downwind direction of the Automobile Parts Co., Ltd. is mainly As, CD, Zn mixed heavy metal pollution, the distribution is not uniform. The coefficient of variation of As was the largest, and the regional variation amplitude was larger. The coefficient of variation of CD, Cr and Ni is 50%, the coefficient of variation of Zn is 39.38%, and the coefficient of variation of PB is the lowest. The accumulative index of AS and CD was 6, which was a very serious pollution. The content of As was 1994.7 mg/kg, the multiple of over-standard was more than 44 times, and the distribution of As in soil was irregular. The pollution level of Zn is Grade 3, which belongs to moderate pollution. The farther away from the downwind outlet of the plant, the lower the pollution degree of heavy metals in the soil. According to the health risk assessment, the main route of heavy metals entering the body is through the mouth, through the way of breathing. Exposure to heavy metals is far less harmful than oral exposure, so we need to pay special attention to farmland soil heavy metal pollution.
Better Than Maximum Likelihood Estimation of Model- based and Model-free Learning Styles
Authors: Yazdani Sadjad , Vahabie Abdol-Hossein , Nadjar-Araabi Babak , Ahmadabadi Majid Nili
Published: July 2023

Various decision-making systems work together to shape human behavior. Goal-directed and habitual systems are the two most important systems studied by reinforcement learning (RL) through model-based (MB) and model-free (MF) learning styles, respectively. Human behavior resembles the combination of these two decision-making paradigms, achieved by the weighted sum of the action values of the two styles in an RL framework. The weighting parameter is often extracted by the maximum likelihood (ML) or maximum a-posteriori (MAP) estimation method. In this study, we employ RL agents that use a combination of MB and MF decision-making to perform the well-known Daw two-stage task. ML and MAP methods result in less reliable estimates of the weighting parameter, where a large bias toward extreme values is often observed. We propose the knearest neighbor as an alternative nonparametric estimate to improve the estimation error, where we devise a set of 20 features extracted from the behavior of the RL agent. Simulated experiments examine the proposed method. Our method reduces the bias and variance of the estimation error based on the obtained results. Human behavior data from previous studies is investigated as well. The proposed method results in predicting indices such as age, gender, IQ, the dwell time of gaze, and psychiatric disorder indices which are missed by the traditional method. In brief, the proposed method increases the reliability of the estimated parameters and enhances the applicability of reinforcement learning paradigms in clinical trials.
Ventilatory status and secondary brain injuries in infants with moderate neonatal encephalopathy treated by hypothermia
Authors: Bernard Mélanie , debillon Thierry , Guellec Isabelle , Vilotitch Antoine , Ego Anne , chevallier Marie
Published: July 2023

We evaluated the association between mechanical ventilation (MV) and secondary brain injury (SBI) in infants with moderate neonatal encephalopathy (NE) under therapeutic hypothermia (TH) in the first 72 hours of life. MV was not associated with SBISO. Hypotension was greater in the MV group, which had greater use of sedatives.
A Highly Efficient Open-shell Singlet Luminescent Diradical with Strong Magnetoluminescence Properties
Authors: Abdurahman Alim , Shen Li , Wang Jingmin , Niu Meiling , Li Ping , Peng Qiming , Wang Jianpu , Lu Geyu
Published: July 2023

Developing open-shell singlet (OS) diradicals with high luminescent properties and exceptional single-molecule magnetoluminescence (ML) performance is extremely challenging. Herein, we propose a strategy to enhance luminescent efficiency by adjusting the donor conjugation of OS diradicals, thereby achieving a highly luminescent diradical, DR1, with outstanding stability, and making it a viable option for use in the emitting layer of organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs). More importantly, the 0.5 wt.%-DR1 doped film demonstrates significant single-molecule magnetoluminescence (ML) properties. A giant ML value of 210% is achieved at a magnetic field of 7 T, showing the great potential of DR1 in magneto-optoelectronic devices.
Evaluating Implementation of NCCN Guideline-Directed Genetic Screening Recommendations for Patients with Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Ghosh Aditya Kumar , Bhushan Sheena , Abidoye Oluseyi , Rynarzewska Ania Izabela , Robinson Shane , Sampat Devi
Published: July 2023

Purpose
In 2019, the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) recommended genetic testing for all patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). To evaluate the status of implementation of these guidelines in a loco-regional setting, we performed a retrospective, observational study among patients with newly diagnosed PDAC who received oncologic care at Northeast Georgia Medical Center in Georgia.
Methods
Chart abstraction of patients with newly diagnosed PDAC from January 1, 2020 to December 31, 2021, was performed to include information on genetic testing recommendation and completion, and time from diagnosis to testing. The deidentified dataset was then analyzed using appropriate descriptive and associative statistical testing.
Results
Of the cohort of 109 patients, 32 (29.4%) completed genetic screening; 16 (14.7%) were screened within 10 days of diagnosis. Among the 77 (70.6%) patients who did not receive genetic screening, 45 (41.3%) were not recommended genetic screening despite treatment intent with standard of care therapy. However, 32 (29.4%) were not recommended genetic screening in conjunction with a desire to pursue palliative care/hospice/or due to terminal illness.
Conclusions
The study highlighted the gap in implementation of NCCN guideline-directed genetic testing in PDAC patients as only a third underwent testing suggesting the need for systematic processes to facilitate testing. The test was more likely to be completed if done early in the course, especially soon after the diagnosis. Research is needed to explore discussing genetic testing for the large proportion of patients who are terminally ill at diagnosis where genetic screening would potentially benefit the family members.
Alexithymia, Intolerance to Uncertainty and Psychopathological Dynamics in Subjects Suffering from Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus: A Preliminary Exploratory Study
Authors: Merlo Emanuele Maria , Tutino Rita , Myles Liam Alexander MacKenzie , Settineri Salvatore , Lia Maria Carmela , Minasi Domenico
Published: July 2023

Background
Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) represents a serious chronic condition affecting a wide number of people. Discussion of the physical issues associated with T1DM pervades the literature, however, there is less discussion of the psychological consequences. Psychopathology, alexithymia and uncertainty can be considered as clearly present in this population, and known to be harmful for the onset, maintenance and worsening of disorders. This study aimed to highlight the presence and directions assumed by these phenomena in subjects suffering from T1DM.
Methods
105 subjects (F: 60%), aged between 11 and 17 years old (M: 13.88; SD: 2.16) affected by T1DM were included. To assess the presence of psychopathology, SAFA scales (Depression, Anxiety and Somatic symptoms) were included in the protocol together with TAS-20 and IUS-12, respectively, which evaluate the presence and role of alexithymia and intolerance to uncertainty in the sample.
Results
A concerning presence of anxiety, depression and somatic symptoms was found in the sample. Psychopathology appeared to be consistently represented in the sample, often overcoming pathological indexes. Alexithymia and uncertainty were common, highlighting their role in the light of the main pathology (T1DM). Continuity with current state of the art emerged, underlining the need for interventions.
Conclusions
Active psychopathology together with high rates of alexithymia and intolerance to uncertainty were prevalent in the sample. Adolescent subjects suffering from diabetes demonstrated its impact on psychological functioning while the results underlined some psychological phenomena possibly exacerbating general health status.
Can pulsed lighting help adults with dyslexia to read better: Testing LeFloch and Ropars’s hypothesis
Authors: Lapeyre Eole , Melmi Jean-Baptiste , Colé Pascale , Calabrèse Aurélie
Published: July 2023

The aim of the present study was to test Le Floch and Ropars’ hypothesis according to which dyslexia is mainly triggered by visual processing deficits, namely an absence of eye dominance, which induce the aberrant perception of afterimages for individual letters. According to these authors, dyslexic readers would be expected to produce reading performances very similar to those of controls under pulsed lighting conditions. 23 participants with dyslexia and 19 control readers were recruited and asked to perform two reading tasks under three different lighting conditions; standard lighting, pulsed lighting and a combination of the two. We used two reading measures for each participant and each lighting condition: (1) a reading accessibility index (using the MNREAD test) and (2) a text reading comprehension score. To control for individual differences in reading skills, all participants also completed a series of French standardized tests which were used to compute an individual reading impairment score. Finally, visual acuity and eye dominance were measured to control for participants’ visual function. We found no effect of lighting conditions on either of the two reading measures. This was true for all reading impairment score values and irrespective of whether participants showed eye dominance or not. Furthermore, even under pulsed lighting, individuals with dyslexia did not reach the reading performance of skilled adult readers, regardless of their eye dominance. In conclusion, we failed to show a clear positive impact of pulsed lighting on the reading skills of adults with dyslexia. This set of results does not support the visual hypothesis of dyslexia proposed by Le Floch and Ropars.
Effect of Aluminizing on the Oxidation of Inconel 718 and Inconel 738LC Superalloys at 925-1050°C
Authors: Telbakiroğlu Y. Burak , Konca Erkan
Published: July 2023

A study was undertaken to investigate and compare the high temperature oxidation behaviors of aluminized Inconel 718 and Inconel 738LC nickel-based superalloys. Bare and high activity chemical vapor deposition (CVD) aluminized Inconel 718 and Inconel 738LC samples were oxidized in air at 925, 1000 and 1050°C for 200 hours. Detailed cross-sectional examinations, elemental analyses, mass change measurements, and x-ray diffraction studies were performed. It was observed that the oxidation resistances of both Inconel 718 and 738LC alloys were significantly improved by the Al2O3 layer formed on the NiAl phase that was created on the surfaces of the samples during aluminizing. The beneficial effect of aluminizing was found to be more evident in the case of 738LC alloy samples which showed lower oxidation rates in all test temperatures. It is suggested that the higher aluminum content of the Inconel 738LC alloy, which is 3.43 wt.% vs. 0.49 wt.% in 718, slows down the diffusional flux of Al away from the NiAl phase to the substrate and hence it is the main reason for the superior oxidation resistance of this alloy.
Doxorubicin-Induced Modulation of TGF-β Signaling Cascade in Mouse Fibroblasts: Insights into Cardiotoxicity Mechanisms
Authors: Patricelli Conner , Lehmann Parker , Oxford Julia Thom , Pu Xinzhu
Published: July 2023

Doxorubicin (DOX)-induced cardiotoxicity has been widely observed, yet the specific impact on cardiac fibroblasts is not fully understood. Additionally, the modulation of the transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) signaling pathway by DOX remains to be fully elucidated. This study investigated DOX’s ability to modulate the expression of genes and proteins involved in the TGF-β signaling cascade in mouse fibroblasts from two sources by assessing the impact of DOX treatment on TGF-β inducible expression of pivotal genes and proteins within fibroblasts. Mouse embryonic fibroblasts (NIH3T3) and mouse primary cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) were treated with DOX in the presence of TGF-β1 to assess changes in protein levels by western blot and changes in mRNA levels by quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Our results revealed a dose-dependent reduction in cellular communication network factor 2 (CCN2) protein levels upon DOX treatment in both NIH3T3 and CFs. Moreover, we observed that DOX inhibited the TGF-β1 induced expression of BMP1 in NIH3T3 cells, while BMP1 levels remained high in CFs, and that TGF-β1 induces the phosphorylation of SMAD2 in both NIH3T3 cells and CFs. While DOX treatment diminished the extent of phosphorylation, the reduction did not reach statistical significance. DOX also inhibited the TGF-β1 induced expression of COL1 in NIH3T3 cells and CFs. Finally, DOX inhibited the TGF-β1 induced expression of Atf4 and increased the expression of Cdkn1a, Id1, Id2, Runx1, Tgfb1, Inhba, Thbs1, Bmp1, and Stat1 in NIH3T3 cells but not CFs, indicating the potential for cell-specific responses to DOX and its modulation of the TGF-β signaling pathway. Understanding the underlying mechanisms of the ability of DOX to modulate gene expression and signaling pathways in fibroblasts holds promise for future development of targeted therapeutic strategies to mitigate DOX-induced cardiotoxicity specifically affecting CFs.
Sahel medical intelligence using ChatGPT. One more tool but not the definitive solution
Authors: Llorente-Nieto Pedro , Ramos-Rincón José-Manuel , González-Alcaide Gregorio
Published: July 2023

Purpose
The Sahel is a region in conflict where the development of medical intelligence (MEDINT) presents various complications. The ChatGPT application is a tool based on artificial intelligence that can be useful in some phases of the intelligence cycle.
Methods
We designed a series of 20 prompts oriented to the different phases of the MEDINT cycle and the answers were analyzed by 4 experts using a Likert scale according to criteria of relevance (range 1– completely irrelevant to 5 – completely relevant) and coherence (range 1– completely incoherence to 5 – completely coherence). Scores were summarized with descriptive statistics.
Results
Among the 160 evaluations generated after the analysis by the experts, the median accuracy score was 3 (mean 3.25, SD 0.99). In direction (mean 4.08, SD 0.14) and elaboration (mean 3.92, SD 0.67), the application shows above-average results in both criteria. In the rest of the phases, the results are consistent, but not relevant. Experts discreetly consider coherence (mean 2.5, SD 0.33)
Conclusions:
1) ChatGPT can be useful as a guide when creating a MEDINT plan for a region.
2) In the rest of the phases, the application itself recognizes its limitations due to not being able to access information in real time or analyze new data.
Artificial intelligence systems based on large language models, can be configured for specific topics and access to restricted data. Therefore, we recommend the advanced study of use of these tools in the field of medical intelligence.
Evaluation of Supervised Learning Models for Automatic Spam Email Detection
Authors: Assegie Tsehay Admassu
Published: July 2023

This paper compares the performance of different supervised learning algorithms for email spam detection. The comparison considered performance measures such as the area under the curve (AUC), F-score, precision, and confusion matrix. The paper evaluated the performance of eight supervised learning algorithms for email spam detection. The first stage collected the dataset of emails from the Kaggle repository. The second stage involves pre-processing, duplicate removal, and the dataset features scaling. After the pre-processing stage, the study employed a synthetic minority technique for balancing samples representing the spam and no spam emails in the dataset. In the final stage, the supervised learning algorithms are trained on the pre-processed dataset and then the test result is analyzed. The comparison shows the random forest (RF) model performing at higher accuracy than the other models. The RG model achieved 96.6% accuracy in email spam detection. Thus, the result demonstrates that different models tend to perform differently in email spam detection.
Visualisation of bluetongue virus in the salivary apparatus of Culicoides biting midges highlights the accessory glands as a primary arboviral infection site
Authors: Busquets Marc Guimerà , Brown Faye V. , Carpenter Simon T. , Darpel Karin E. , Sanders Christopher J.
Published: July 2023

Background
Arthropods transmit a wide range of pathogens of importance for the global health of humans, animals, and plants. One of these arthropod vectors, Culicoides biting midges (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae), are the biological vectors of several human and animal pathogens, including economically important livestock viruses like bluetongue virus (BTV). Like other arthropods-borne viruses (arboviruses), Culicoides-borne viruses must reach and replicate in the salivary apparatus, from where they can be transmitted to susceptible hosts through the saliva during subsequent blood feeding. Despite the importance of the salivary gland apparatus for pathogen transmission to susceptible animals from the bite of infected Culicoides, these structures have received relatively little attention, perhaps due to the small size and fragility of these vectors.
Results
In this study, we developed techniques to visualize the infection of the salivary glands and other soft tissues with BTV, in one of the smallest known arbovirus vectors, Culicoides biting midges, using three-dimensional immunofluorescence confocal microscopy. We showed BTV infection of specific structures of the salivary gland apparatus of female Culicoides vectors following oral virus uptake, related visualisation of viral infection in the salivary apparatus to high viral RNA copies in the body, and demonstrated for the first time, that the accessory glands are a primary site for BTV replication within the salivary apparatus.
Conclusions
Our work has revealed a novel site of virus-vector interactions, and a novel role of the accessory glands of Culicoides in arbovirus amplification and transmission. Our approach would also be applicable to a wide range of arbovirus vector groups including sandflies (Diptera: Psychodidae), as well as provide a powerful tool to investigate arbovirus infection and dissemination, particularly where there are practical challenges in the visualization of small size and delicate tissues of arthropods.
Identification of a Disulfidptosis-related gene associated with the prognosis of pancreatic cancer
Authors: Fan Wei , Fan Shaoyong , Zhou Ming , Hou Huiming , Zou Wen , Gong Li , Shuai Yongming , Li Ji , Wan Liangqi , Hu Liangshen , Xu Tao , Zheng Xianglong , Yu Jiangtao , Wang Rongqing , Deng Chaoqun , Chen Zhenhua , Xie Zan , Yin Haibin
Published: July 2023

Background: Pancreatic adenocarcinoma(PAAD) is a digestive solid tumor with a poor prognosis among many common cancers. Now a new way of cell death has been discovered. This mode of death is known as disulfide death and may be associated with tumor progression. However, the role of this gene in PAAD and its relationship to prognosis remains unclear. This study aims to explore the prognostic role of disulfide death-related genes in breast cancer and their effects on immunity and interstitium.
Result: In this study, PAAD samples from TCGA, GTEx, and GEO databases were used to investigate the expression of 10 disulfide death-related genes and the predictive potential of patients' prognosis and survival. Univariate Cox regression analysis was used to analyze 10 genes, and it was found that NCKAP1 and RPN1 were highly expressed in pancreatic cancer tissues and correlated with the overall survival of patients. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that NCKAP1 was an independent factor affecting the prognosis of patients. This study combined NCKAP1 with some clinical factors to construct an ideal prognostic model. In addition, in our study, NCKAP1 was found to be closely related to cancer immune response, and significantly correlated T-cell infiltration, chemotherapy drug sensitivity, and sulfur metabolic channels. The difference in the expression level of NCKAP1 in pancreatic cancer cells and normal controls was verified by the GEO cohort, which was consistent with the public database TCGA.
Conclusion: NCLAP1 may play a role in inducing disulfdptosis and regulating tumor immunity, and can serve as a potential therapeutic target for PAAD.
p38 MAPK fuels proliferation stress and DNA damage impairing the functionality of genetically engineered hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells
Authors: Micco Raffaella Di , Volpe Lucrezia della , Vacca Roberta , Midena Federico , Tavella Teresa , Naldini Matteo Maria , Barcella Matteo , Giannetti Kety , Ferrari Samuele , Beretta Stefano , Farina Giacomo , Alessandrini Laura , Santoro Antonella , Carsana Edoardo , Varesi Angelica , Gilioli Diego , Conti Anastasia , Merelli Ivan , Gentner Bernhard , Naldini Luigi
Published: July 2023

Ex vivo activation and cell cycle progression of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) is a prerequisite to reaching adequate levels of genetic engineering by homology-driven repair (HDR) for clinical applications. Here, we show that shortening ex vivo culture mitigates the p53-mediated DNA damage response initiated by the concomitant exposure to nuclease and template delivery vectors and endows edited HSPCs with greater hematopoietic reconstitution capacity upon transplantation. However, this comes at the cost of a lower HDR-mediated gene correction, rendering ex vivo culture an unavoidable step, although detrimental. Mechanistically, we uncovered that ex vivo activation triggers a p38 MAPK-mitogenic ROS axis that fuels proliferation stress and heightens DNA damage burden across HSPC subsets. p38 inhibition prior to genetic engineering delayed G1/S transition, expanded transcriptionally-defined hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), and increased multi-lineage output at single-cell resolution. Accordingly, in vivo analyses coupled with clonal tracking revealed superior engraftment, persistence throughout serial transplantation, and enhanced polyclonal repertoire of p38 inhibitor-treated gene-edited HSPCs. Altogether, our data point to proliferative stress as a driver of human HSPC dysfunction with fundamental implications for advancing precise gene correction into clinical practice.
SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence among healthcare workers in Haiti, December 2021
Authors: MICHEL Edwige , Jean-Denis Gladzdin , Denis Hetsner , Bouilly Roberta , Pierre Jean Samuel , Lafontant Donald , Alboth Jocelyne André , Pierre Manise , Dély Patrick , Boncy Jacques , Birmingham Maureen , Marseille Samson
Published: July 2023

Background
Healthcare workers are an exposed group for SARS-CoV-2 and this exposure is a public health priority. Transmission can occur from infected patients to staff and from infected staff to patients and co-workers, thus undermining the health care system. This study estimated the seroprevalence in this population and identified some associated factors.
Methods
We analyzed the exposure of healthcare workers in ten (10) large hospitals providing care to patients with covid-19 by testing for antibodies to SARS-CoV-2. Potential risk factors such as age, vaccination history, barrier measures such as masking were explored through a questionnaire.
Results
From December 06 to 15, 2021, among 3743 health care workers in major hospitals providing care to patients with covid19, a sample of 566 had received serological testing for SARS-COV-2. The mean age was 39 years, 62% were female, and about 12% had hypertension. The vast majority did not reveal any signs and symptoms compatible with COVID19, 62% had already received anti-covid19 vaccine.
The national prevalence regardless of vaccination status was 44%, with a predominance of male gender, age group 60 and older, and the Western Department. Prevalence among unvaccinated persons was 11.59% and never wearing masks was an increased risk of developing antibodies to SARS-COV2.
Conclusion
Among health care workers, covid-19 affects both sexes with a female predominance. The age group over 60 years is the most affected and not wearing a mask is a risk factor associated with virus detection.
Examining the superpower-based representation of eating disorder illness and recovery with data mining of The Art of Starving
Authors: Sargent Rebecca J , Tucker Brad E
Published: July 2023

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Significant decline of an endemic bustard in the Canary Islands
Authors: Ucero Alberto , Alonso Juan C. , Palacín Carlos , Abril-Colón Inmaculada , Álvarez-Martínez José M.
Published: July 2023

The declines of species are caused by a combination of factors that affect survival or breeding success. We studied the effects of a set of environmental and anthropogenic variables on the disappearance of African houbara bustards Chlamydotis undulata fuertaventurae on Fuerteventura (Canary Islands), once the main stronghold of this endangered bird. Of 83 male display sites detected in 1997-1998, only 29 remained occupied in 2020-2021 (65% decrease in only 23 years). We compared habitat quality, density of conspecifics, other steppe birds and crows, presence of human infrastructure, and degree of environmental protection between these 29 extant sites and the 54 extinct sites using univariate analyses and generalised linear models. The most influential variable in the abandonment of display sites was the Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), used as an indicator of food resources available to the species, which suggests a strong effect of aridification due to climate change on the species’ extinction process. Power line density was the second most important factor. This suggests that hubaras have survived where higher vegetation productivity has enabled a higher breeding success, and powerline fatalities have caused lower mortality. Higher densities of houbaras, other steppe birds and crows at extant display sites confirmed the better habitat quality in these areas. Extant display sites, located generally in protected areas, had also lower densities of human infrastructure (buildings, roads). We discuss the conservation implications of these results and provide management recommendations for this endangered subspecies.
Assessment of Strength and Microstructural Properties of GGBS based Sustainable Geopolymer Concrete with parametric variations in alkaline solutions
Authors: Prusty Satya Ranjan , Murmu Debadutta , Panigrahi Ramakanta , Jena Sanghamitra
Published: July 2023

Geopolymer binders such as ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) and fly ash (FA) have been promisingly surfaced as probable alternatives to ordinary portland cement (OPC) in concrete preparation over the last few decades. The production of geopolymer concrete (GPC) generates approximately 30–50% less carbon-dioxide (CO2) gas emissions than OPC concrete. GPC not only reduces CO2 emissions, but it also uses industrial solid wastes. To achieve optimum mechanical strength, three parameters which play crucial roles have been considered: Molarity of sodium hydroxide (NH) concentration, solution to binder ratio (S/B) and sodium silicate-sodium hydroxide (NS/NH) proportion. So, in present paper, the mechanical and microstructural characteristics of GPC cured at ambient curing condition using several mixes prepared with varying NaOH concentrations (10M – 16M), solution to binder ratios (Total alkali activator/Total binder content) (0.45 – 0.55) and sodium silicate (NS) to (NH) ratios (1.5 – 2.5) has been investigated. In addition to this, for a conceptualization of environmental impact of GPC, life-cycle assessment (LCA) has been performed.
Neural waves and computation in a neural net model I: Convolutional hierarchies
Authors: Selesnick Stephen Allan
Published: July 2023

The computational resources of a neuromorphic network model introduced earlier are investigated in the context of such hierarchical systems as the mammalian visual cortex. It is argued that a form of ubiquitous spontaneous local convolution, driven by spontaneously arising wave-like activity---which itself promotes local Hebbian modulation---enables logical gate-like neural motifs to form into hierarchical feed-forward structures of the Hubel-Wiesel type. Extra-synaptic effects are shown to play a significant r\^{o}le in these processes. The type of logic that emerges is not Boolean, confirming and extending earlier findings on the logic of schizophrenia.
Anisotropic mechanical response of layered shales: Insights from numerical simulations
Authors: Gao Min , Gong Bin , Liang Zhengzhao , Jia Shanpo , Zou Jiuqun
Published: July 2023

Layered shales exist widely in nature and are often encountered during infrastructure construction. However, the mechanical response of layered shales is significantly affected by the existence of beddings, resulting in the obvious anisotropy characteristics in terms of deformation, strength, and failure mode. To clarify the underlying mechanisms of shale anisotropy that control the safety of engineering projects, the combined numerical simulation and theoretical analysis were conducted. The results show that with the growth of confining pressure, the compressive resistance of shales gradually increases, the shear fractures govern the sample instability, and the anisotropy index continues to decrease. Furthermore, several strength criteria for layered rock masses were summarized, and the modified Jaeger strength criterion was proposed by introducing the anisotropic parameter Rcθ. It can effectively reflect the failure modes and strength features of layered shales under triaxial conditions with the higher accuracy. Besides, the variation of cohesion and internal friction angle of layered shale samples was comprehensively analysed under the triaxial conditions. Clearly, as the inclination angle of bedding planes rises, the cohesion of layered shales first decreases, but then increases under triaxial compression, showing the ‘U’-shaped changing trend. Additionally, the internal friction angle of layered shales grows up gradually with the inclination of bedding planes increasing.
The capacity fading mechanism of high-capacity CrO x （x≥2.5） cathode material for lithium ion battery
Authors: Xu Shan , Lin Ge
Published: July 2023

A series of chromium oxides (CrOx, x ≥ 2.5) as cathode for lithium ion batteries (LIBs) with high capacity were synthesized by a facile method. CV curves and impedance analysis indicated there is some relationship between the structure compositions and electrochemical performance among them. The initial phase transited into two phases in the process of circulation and the higher the ratio of tetrahedrons [CrO4]: octahedrons [CrO6] is, the smaller the potential difference between the two phases. As a case study of Cr8O21 with high ratio of that, ex-situ X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, transmission electron microscope show that the phases after transition is the nanoparticles LiCrO2 close to amorphous and the irreversible phase crystal LiCrO2 without providing any capacity, which is the main cause of the drastic capacity fading in the previous circulation. Moreover, Cr8O21 shows a high discharge capacity of 320 mAh g-1 (10 mA g-1) with capacity retention of 88% after 40 cycles. This study provides insight into understanding the mechanism of the capacity fading of a series of chromium oxides and also possibly a means of studying structural evolution in the metal oxides consisted of different valence state.
The improvement of kinsenoside in wild-imitated cultivation Anoectochilus roxburghii associated with endophytic community
Authors: Zheng Ying , Li Lihong , Liu Xinting , Xu Sirui , Sun Xutong , Zhang Zili , Guo Haipeng , Shao Qingsong
Published: July 2023

Background
Kinsenoside, a predominant pharmacologically active component in Anoectochilus roxburghii, exhibits great liver protective effect for treating non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, autoimmune hepatitis, alcoholic liver injury, and liver fibrosis, etc. Previous research found that the content of kinsenoside in wild-imitated cultivation A. roxburghii (WC) was similar to that of wild-tending cultivation plants (WP). This manuscript disentangled the relationship between kinsenoside and microbiome of A. roxburghii under wild-imitated environment.
Results
Our research found that endophytic bacteria’s diversity and network complexity decreased from WP to WC and tissue-cultured plants (TC). After 3 months of growth in the wild-imitated environment, the microbial composition of TC was significantly differentiated and converged toward WP. Correlation analyses showed that the diversity of bacterial community has a significant positive relationship with the content of kinsenoside, which is the main functional active ingredients in A. roxburghii, and BCP is the key taxa affecting kinsenoside. In addition, acetylacetyl-CoA reductase, a key enzyme for the synthesis of kinsenoside, was significantly enriched in WC and WP.
Conclusion
we proposed that the medicinal quality of A. roxburghii under the wild cultivation imitated method is comparable to wild tending cultivation ones with high kinsenoside content which is likely attributed to the activity of BCP and acetylacetyl-CoA. This study provides a basis for the improvement and sustainable utilization of A. roxburghii resources.
Enhancing Non-Communicable Disease Management in Elderly Families: A Community Outreach Initiative
Authors: Muflih Muflih , Suwarsi Suwarsi , Asmarani Fajarina Lathu , Erwanto Rizky , Amigo Thomas Aquino Erjinyuare
Published: July 2023

Background
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are a significant public health concern, particularly among elderly families. Limited access to healthcare resources and inadequate disease management exacerbate the impact of NCDs on this vulnerable population.
Objective
This study aimed to implement a community outreach initiative focused on enhancing non-communicable disease management in elderly families.
Methods
A comprehensive intervention was designed, including health education workshops, individualized health assessments, and the establishment of support networks. Pre- and post-intervention assessments were conducted to measure changes in knowledge levels, health status, health management practices, health behaviors, and family resilience among elderly families.
Results
Following the intervention, there was a substantial improvement in knowledge regarding NCDs and their management. Additionally, participants exhibited enhanced health status and more effective health management practices. Positive changes in health behaviors, such as regular exercise and balanced nutrition, were also observed. Moreover, family resilience significantly increased, strengthening their ability to cope with health challenges.
Conclusions
The community outreach initiative demonstrated significant positive outcomes in non-communicable disease management among elderly families. Targeted interventions can play a pivotal role in empowering this demographic, promoting their overall health and well-being, and fostering community-based healthcare efforts.
Implementation von Zugänglichkeit / Barrierefreiheit im Kontext von Studieren mit Beeinträchtigung und digitalisiertem Lehren und Lernen
Authors: Podszus Martin , Schulze Gisela C. , Grimminger Sanja
Published: July 2023

Spätestens die einstimmig verabschiedete Empfehlung „Eine Hochschule für Alle“ der Hochschulrektorenkonferenz (2009) hat die U N-Konvention über die Rechte von Menschen mit Behinderungen (C R P D) mit der enthaltenen Forderung nach inklusiver Bildung im Lebensverlauf (U N, 2006 § 24) und dem barrierefreien Zugang zu selbiger (e b d. § 9) zum Handlungsauftrag für Hochschulen gemacht. Die Kultusministerkonferenz (K M K) (2016, 2019) empfiehlt hierzu eine verstärkte Implementierung von digitalisiertem Lernen, um der Diversität der Studierenden Rechnung zu tragen und beispielsweise die Partizipationsmöglichkeiten von Studierenden mit Beeinträchtigungen erheblich verbessern zu können (Ebersold & Evens, 2003). Entscheidend ist es, holistische statt zielgruppenspezifische Lösungsansätze zu entwickeln und neben technischen auch die strukturellen und didaktischen Aspekte zugänglicher Lehre in den Blick zu nehmen (Grundmann & Podszus, 2019; Podszus, 2019a, 2019b). Dies erfordert zum einen Kenntnisse der Stakeholder von digitalisiertem Lehren und Lernen über die Bedarfe Studierender mit Beeinträchtigungen im Hinblick auf Selbiges und zum anderen die Kooperation der beteiligten Stakeholder und Organisationseinheiten innerhalb der Hochschulen sowie deren Unterstützung durch ein wirksames Diversitätsmanagement. Als Herausforderung erweist sich, dass das Thema „Studieren mit Beeinträchtigung“ generell und auch beim Implementieren solcher Diversitätsmanagementstrukturen neben Diversitätsdimensionen wie atypischen Bildungsbiografien, Migrationshintergrund oder Gender nur eine marginale Rolle spielt (Knauf, 2015; Rothenberg, 2012) und die Maßnahmen eine Fokussierung auf Nachteilsausgleiche, Fall-zu-Fall-Lösungen und fakultative Angebote anstelle proaktiver Barrierefreiheit beinhalten (Fisseler, 2013; Podszus, 2019a). Ein für die Betrachtung und Systematisierung von derartigen Implementierungsprozessen und Forschungsfragen nutzbares Modell, die Adaption des Contextualized Model of Accessible E-Learning Practice in Higher Education Institutions für den deutschen Hochschulraum (Podszus, 2019a), soll im Beitrag vorgestellt werden.