bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ATF4/NUPR1 axis promotes cancer cell survival and mediates immunosuppression in clear cell renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Lu Yongliang , Chen Weihao , Xuan Yundong , Li Xiubin , Wu Shengpan , Wang Hanfeng , Guo Tao , Wang Chenfeng , Tian Shuo , Li Huaikang , Lai Dong , Zhao Wenlei , Huang Xing , Zhao Xupeng , Wang Baojun , Zhang Xu , Li Hongzhao , Huang Yan , Ma Xin
Published: February 2024

Cancer cells encounter unavoidable stress during tumor growth. The stress-induced transcription factor, activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4), has been reported to upregulate various adaptive genes involved in salvage pathways to alleviate stress and promote tumor progression. However, this effect is unknown in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). In this study, we found that ATF4 expression was remarkably upregulated in tumor tissues and associated with poor ccRCC outcomes. ATF4 depletion significantly impaired ccRCC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in vitro and in vivo by inhibiting the AKT/mTOR and epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related signaling pathway. RNA sequencing and functional studies identified nuclear protein 1 (NUPR1) as a key downstream target of ATF4 for repressing ferroptosis and promoting ccRCC cell survival. In addition, targeting ATF4 or pharmacological inhibition using NUPR1 inhibitor ZZW115 promoted antitumor immunity in syngeneic graft mouse models, represented by increased infiltration of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. Furthermore, ZZW115 could improve the response to the PD-1 immune checkpoint blockade. The results demonstrate that the ATF4/NUPR1 signaling axis promotes ccRCC survival and facilitates tumor-mediated immunosuppression, providing a set of potential targets and prognostic indicators for ccRCC patients.
Dietary intake of folate, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, and riboflavin and the risk of incident dementia
Authors: Kishida Rie , Yamagishi Kazumasa , Koutatsu Maruyama , Ikeda Ai , Sata Mizuki , Tanaka Mari , Okada Chika , Kubota Yasuhiko , Hayama-Terada Mina , Shimizu Yuji , Muraki Isao , Umesawa Mitsumasa , Imano Hironori , Sankai Tomoko , Okada Takeo , Kitamura Akihiko , Kiyama Masahiko , Iso Hiroyasu
Published: February 2024

Background/Objectives: Low intake of B-vitamins may increase dementia; However, epidemiological evidence, particularly for riboflavin (vitamin B₂), remains sparse. The aim of this study was to examine the association between dietary intakes of B-vitamins (riboflavin, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, and folate) and the incidence of disabling dementia necessitating care under the Japan’s national insurance over a 15-year observation period.
Methods: As part of the Circulatory Risk in Communities Study, a prospective study involving a community-based cohort of 4,171 Japanese individuals aged 40 to 69 years was conducted. Dietary intakes of B-vitamins were estimated through a single 24-hour dietary recall method. Hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals of disabling dementia were estimated using area-stratified Cox proportional hazard models.
Results: Over a median follow-up of 15.4 years, 887 cases of disabling dementia were identified. Riboflavin intake was inversely associated with risk of disabling dementia among men and women; comparing the highest and lowest quartiles, multivariable hazard ratios and 95% CIs were 0.55 (95% CI 0.39–0.78; P for trend < 0.001) in men and 0.51 (0.39–0.68; P for trend < 0.001) in women. A similar inverse association was observed for vitamin B12 intake among men, and folate intake among women, with multivariable hazard ratios and 95% CIs of 0.69 (0.49–0.98; P for trend = 0.04) and 0.66 (0.49–0.88; P for trend = 0.0008), respectively.
Conclusions: Our findings suggest that dietary intake of B-vitamins, especially riboflavin, is associated with a reduced risk of disabling dementia in Japanese individuals.
Detection and Characterization of Microplastics in Commercial Salts in India
Authors: Vittal Rajeshwari , Xavier Sneha , Mohan Masmarika , Chakraborty Anirban , Chakraborty Gunimala
Published: February 2024

Plastic waste accumulation is an ever-growing menace affecting both aquatic and terrestrial environments. One of the primary concerns associated with plastic pollution is the accumulation of microplastics (MPs) in the ecosystem, particularly in the marine ecosystem. Microplastics pollution in marine environment is a matter of grave concern because marine resources are one of the primarily contributors to human food supply. In addition, the marine environment possesses a plethora of bioactive compounds that are used in a wide variety of products, intended for human use. One of the easiest routes of MPs ingestion from marine environment is through salt, an indispensable ingredient in cooking. This study aimed at analysing commercial brands of sea salt and rock salt for the presence of MPs by Nile red fluorescent staining (NR) and characterizing the plastic polymers by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). A total of thirty different brands of salts available in India were collected and analysed. The results indicate that presence of MPs is highly prevalent in sea salts with variable number, particles size and polymer types. In sea salt samples, the number of MPs ranged between 13- 27 particles/100g whereas in rock salt, it ranged between 8- 29 particles/100g. Both plastic microfibers and MPs were detected in the categories of samples analysed, ranging between 2- 14 particles/100 g for microfibers and 2- 27 particles/100g for microparticles. The size of MPs ranged between 19.45μm - 512.91μm in sea salts and between 29.69μm– 1432.85μm in rock salt. FTIR Spectroscopy identified polyethylene terephthalate as the most prevalent polymer (37%) in the salt samples, followed by polyvinyl chloride (25.9%) polypropylene (22.2%), polyethylene (11%), and polystyrene (3.7%). This study highlights yet another source of MPs ingestion by humans. Given the fact that salt is a preservative, a taste enhancer, and a source of an essential micronutrient, there is an imminent need for potential mitigation techniques to ensure MP-free salts for human consumption.
Postprandial blood glucose and insulin response in healthy adults when lentils replace high glycemic index food ingredients in muffins, chilies and soups
Authors: Ramdath D.Dan , Chamoun Dita , Duncan AM , Lukus Patricia , Loreto Michael , Pals-Horne Frances , Hawke Aileen
Published: February 2024

Objectives: To assess postprandial blood glucose response (PBGR), relative glycemic response (RGR) and insulin response when 25 g available carbohydrates (AC) is replaced with cooked lentils in the formulation of muffins, chilies and soups.
Methods: In randomized, crossover studies, healthy adults consumed foods containing 25 g AC from green lentils, red lentils or a control (wheat muffin, n=24; rice chili, n=24; potato soup, n=20). Blood collected at fasting and at 15, 30, 45, 60, 90 and 120 min was analyzed to derive incremental area under the response curve (iAUC) for glucose and insulin, RGR and maximum concentration (CMAX). Treatment effects were assessed with repeated measures ANOVA.
Results: Replacement of 25 g AC with green lentils significantly decreased glucose iAUC compared to chili and soup (P<0.0001) but not muffin (P=0.07) controls, while also eliciting a significantly lower insulin iAUC for all 3 foods (muffin P=0.03; chili P=0.0002; soup P<0.0001). Red lentil foods significantly decreased glucose iAUC (muffin P=0.02; chili P<0.0001; soup P<0.0001) compared to controls, with a significantly lower insulin iAUC for chili and soup (P<0.0001) but not muffin (P=0.09). The RGR for muffin, chili and soup was 88, 58 and 61%, respectively, for green lentils, and 84, 48 and 49%, respectively, for red lentils.
Conclusions: PBGR, insulin and RGR are decreased when lentils are incorporated into food products providing credible evidence to promote carbohydrate replacement with lentil-based foods.
Intraprocedural CT guided Navigation with Ventilatory Strategy for Atelectasis (ICNVA): a modified electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopy
Authors: Dai Shaohua , Xu Guoqiu , Chen Zhiguo , Tang Jian
Published: February 2024

Background: CT-body divergence limits the accuracy of electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopy (ENB) in peripheral lung lesions diagnosis. We developed intraprocedural CT guided Navigation with Ventilatory Strategy for Atelectasis (ICNVA) ENB for patients with peripheral lung lesions.
Methods: Retrospective observational study in which ten consecutive patients with pulmonary lesions (without bronchial direct connection) underwent ICNVA-ENB was conducted. We collected three sets of CT data: preENB CT, post-anesthesia intubation CT, and postENB CT.
To evaluated the accuracy of ICNVA-ENB, we measured the distance between the ENB probe and the actual lesion location, but also recorded the results of rapid on-site evaluation (ROSE), and postoperative pathology. To evaluate the impact of CT-body divergence induced by atelectasis, we calculated the mutual position distance of target lesions in preENB CT, post-anesthesia intubation CT and postENB CT. Furthermore, ENB operation time, operative complications were recorded.
Results: Our analysis revealed that the distance between the navigation probe with the actual location of lesion center is 4–10 (5.90±1.73) mm. The ROSE results were consistent with the postoperative pathological diagnosis in 9 out of 10 patients (90%). The ICNVA-ENB atelectasis CT-body divergence was smaller than traditional ENB ((12.10±3.67)mm vs (6.60±2.59)mm, p＜0.01). The ENB operation time was 20-53(29.30±10.14) minutes and one patient developed slight intrapulmonary hemorrhage.
Conclusions: ICNVA-ENB can reduce the CT-body divergence and appears to be safe and accurate for patients with peripheral lung lesions.
Association Rule Mining of Aircraft Incident Causes based on Apriori Algorithm
Authors: Chen Huaqun , Yang Minghui , Tang Xie
Published: February 2024

Combining accident causation 2–4 model with Apriori algorithm of data mining technology, an association rule of aircraft incident causation is proposed. The data cleaning model based on expert system is adopted on the python platform with the statistics of unsafe events in Civil Aviation of China in 2023. The accident cause 2–4 model divides the factors leading to aircraft unsafe incidents into internal and external factors of HMI organization. The top 30 TF-IDF words of each level are taken as the cause factors of the level, and strong association rules between aircraft unsafe events and cause factors are found through the iterative method of searching layer by layer with Apriori algorithm. Taking the 3-year unsafe incidents of Southwest Air Traffic Management Bureau in CAAC as an example, 90 cause-causing factor sets were identified, and unsupervised and supervised learning methods were respectively adopted. The support, confidence and improvement degrees of the two methods were compared using the complex network diagram of aircraft accident cause-causing generated by Gephi. The comparison results revealed that the analysis of association rules among factors is no longer limited to a single node, the index difference of association rules is increased, and the strong causality is more significant. It points out the direction of accident prevention and prediction.
Growth performance, protein utilization and haemato-biochemical parameters of broilers fed marama bean (Tylosema esculentum) based diets
Authors: Tjetjeo Samuel , Marume upenyu
Published: February 2024

This study investigated growth performance, protein utilization and blood parameters in broiler chickens fed diets containing marama bean (MB). Three hundred day-old broiler chicks were randomly allocated to 5 dietary treatments with eight replicates. The chicks were fed commercial starter diets from 1 to 14 days. The experimental diets were offered during the grower and finisher phases. Five isonitrogenous and isoenergetic diets with the inclusion of marama bean at 0 (MB0, control), 7 (MB7), 14 (MB14), 21 (MB21) and 28% (MB28) were formulated. From the results, Diets containing marama bean had lower average daily gain (ADG) and higher feed conversion ratios (FCR) compared to the control diet. In both phases, the birds fed diet containing MB7 diet had higher ADG compared with other marama bean containing diets. The birds fed control diet also had high cumulative weight gain followed by the birds fed the MB7 diet. In both feeding phases, protein efficient ratio (PER) and specific growth rate (SGR) were higher in birds fed the control diet followed by those fed MB7 diet. With regards to serum metabolites, birds fed control diet had the highest amounts of calcium, phosphorus and total albumin followed by those fed the MB7 diet. However, total protein, total globulin and cholesterol were higher in the birds fed MB7 compared to the control. Higher values for alkaline transferase (ALT) were obtained in all diets containing marama bean compared with the control. In conclusion, inclusion of marama bean meal in diets at 7% provided the optimum performance.
Study on the inhibitory activity and mechanism of Mentha haplocalyx essential oils nanoemulsion against Fusarium oxysporum growth
Authors: Liao Hongxin , Wen Jinrui , Nie Hongyan , Ling Cuiqiong , Zhang Liyan , Xu Furong , Dong Xian
Published: February 2024

As a green and environmentally friendly natural product, Mentha haplocalyx essential oil (MEO) inhibits F. oxysporum, but its field application is limited by its poor water solubility. The nanoemulsion can improve bioavailability and provide a green way to prevent and control P. notoginseng root rot. In this study, Tween-80 and anhydrous ethanol were selected as carriers, and the ultrasonic method was adopted to prepare a nanoemulsion of MEO (MNEO) with an average particle size of 26.07 nm. Compared with traditional emulsion of MEO (MTEO, MEO dissolved in an aqueous solution of 2% DMSO and 0.1% Tween 80), MNEO was superior in inhibiting F. oxysporum in terms of spore germination, hyphal growth, and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). Through transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses, it was found that both MNEO and MTEO can inhibit the Glycolysis/Gluconeogenesis and Starch and Sucrose metabolism pathways of F. oxysporum. Nevertheless, MNEO can inhibit the expression of more genes and metabolites. In addition, some key genes in meiosis, ribosome, and ribosome biogenesis were also significantly downregulated only under MNEO treatment. These genes and metabolites provide valuable information for the later prevention and control of F. oxysporum and provide a theoretical basis for better utilization of MEO resources to develop plant-derived bacteriostatic agents and agricultural modernization and ecological development.
A study on the value estimation of LNG cold heat with application to the liquefaction of various refrigerants
Authors: Asante Daniel Owusu , Galanido Russel J. , Jo Youngjoo , Cho Jungho
Published: February 2024

Refrigeration effects lower than − 20°C can be traditionally achieved using a vapor-recompression refrigeration cycle with various refrigerants having their own supply temperatures. In this study, the values contained in the liquefied natural gas (LNG) cold heat have been estimated when more than 30 pure refrigerants are liquefied by exchanging heat with LNG instead of using a vapor-recompression refrigeration cycle. There was a total of 35 selected refrigerants for evaluation of cold heat price contained in LNG, which includes n-butane, propane, propylene, ammonia (NH3), 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane (R-134a), hydrochlorofluorocarbon (R-22) etc. Simulation works have been carried out for each single refrigeration cycle using the Peng-Robinson equation of state in combination with TWU’s alpha function. PRO/II with PROVISION V2021, a steady-state simulation tool from Aveva Company, was used to model the refrigeration cycle and LNG cold heat value estimation. It was concluded that the estimated values of the LNG cold heat were inversely proportional to refrigerant supply temperature since the compressor power is proportionally increasing when the refrigerant supply temperature is lower and vice versa.
Functional constraints on tetrapod feeding ecology were released long after terrestrialisation
Authors: Deakin William , Donoghue Philip , Rayfield Emily
Published: February 2024

The radiation of tetrapods during the Devonian and Carboniferous was associated with a transition from aquatic to terrestrial environments, with attendant changes in feeding ecology that are poorly characterized. Using a theoretical morphospace and functional optimality approach, we characterize the functional evolution of tetrapod mandibles, finding an antagonistic relationship between the strength, rotational efficiency and the height of jaw morphologies. We further show that the regions of morphospace occupied by the jaws of aquatic, semi-aquatic and early terrestrial tetrapods are optimised within this trade-off. As terrestrial amniotes radiated, they explored broader regions of jaw morphospace that are suboptimal with respect to the trade-off. We interpret this as a release of functional constraint on the jaw morphology of later branching terrestrial herbivores, with new functional demands driving evolutionary innovation. While feeding in aquatic and terrestrial environments is fundamentally different, the functional requirements of the lower jaw do not change. Instead, the jaws of aquatic species perform adequately on land.
Event Type and Relationship Extraction Based on Dependent Syntactic Semantic Augmented Graph Networks
Authors: Zuo Min , Song Zexi , Liu Yueheng , Zhang Qingchuan , Cai Yuanyuan , Wu Di
Published: February 2024

In the domain of natural language processing, tasks such as trigger word extraction, event type recognition, and event relation extraction occupy pivotal positions. These tasks enable the discernment and extraction of salient information through profound analysis of textual content, thereby not only extricating key event data but also facilitating a deeper understanding of the semantic essence of the text. The process of extracting trigger words and event types often grapples with the complexities posed by polysemous words and intricate sentence structures, which can lead to deficiencies in the semantic representation of sentences. Addressing this challenge, this paper introduces a Dependency Syntactic Analysis model and proposes a novel framework Event Type Extraction Model base on Gravitational Network with Enhanced Dependency Semantics(GNEDS) that elucidates the intricate relationships and structures among words in a sentence. This approach significantly enriches the comprehension of contextual information, thereby enabling more precise identification of trigger words and their contextual affiliations, and consequently enhancing the text’s semantic representation.Furthermore, in the realm of event relation recognition, while traditional research has predominantly concentrated on intrasentential event relations, real world texts frequently exhibit event relations that span multiple sentences and entail complex contextual and implicit reasoning. This complexity often results in the sub-optimal performance of existing models in cross-sentence event relation extraction tasks. To overcome this limitation, this study introduces Graph Convolutional Neural Network (GCN) and the innovative concept of document nodes. Consequently, a Document Event Relationship Extraction based on Graph Convolutional Network with Enhanced Dependency Semantics(GCNEDS) is proposed that extends the scope to encompass a broader spectrum of global information, thereby enabling the amalgamation of textual information across various levels. This model is adept at capturing the long-distance dependencies between individual sentences within a document with greater accuracy, representing a significant advancement in the field of event type and relationship extraction based on dependent syntactic-semantic augmented graph networks.
Effect of dealloying temperature on ligament morphology and size of hierarchically porous silver and its mechanical behaviour
Authors: Sun Yikai , Liu Endian , Li Zaijiu , Jin Qinglin , Sun Daliang
Published: February 2024

Hierarchically porous metal materials show great potential for applications in catalysis, energy storage, etc. However, its brittle nature is unfavorable to the application scope and prospect of hierarchically porous metal materials. In this paper, a three-level hierarchically porous silver (THPS) was prepared by a combinational method of Gasar and dealloying processes. THPS with ligament size in range of 16–55 nm was prepared by chemical dealloying with citric acid at different temperatures. The results show that the temperature has a significant effect on the structure of THPS. As the temperature increase, the structure of the nano-ligament is coarsened, the hardness and elastic modulus of THPS show a downward trend.
Nanotechnology for Thermal Comfort and Energy Efficiency in Educational Buildings: A Simulation and measurment Approach in BSh Climate
Authors: Soleymani Marzieh , Amrollahi Rezvaneh , Taghdir Samaneh , Barzegar Zahra
Published: February 2024

Educational buildings have a large share and impact on urban development. While research shows a significant portion of non-industrial energy consumption in these buildings, obtaining optimal thermal comfort in educational buildings remains one of the main concerns in achieving the grounds to promote students’ best performance and efficiency. Extensive research has been done in this field, however, this research presents a new approach to the diverse use of nanotechnology techniques which improve its properties and components in the buildings, aiming to reduce energy consumption and increase thermal comfort. In this paper, thermal comfort and energy consumption is evaluated in a 12-class elementary school located in Shiraz City. Aeropan and nano-PCM is used in the window glass and walls of the studied case. This evaluation presents the simulation and experimental analysis of thermal comfort (PMV) and energy consumption of three classroom alignments in the school building including the Linear-shape (LS), the Integrated Linear-shape (ILS), and the U-shaped (US) alignment. The simulation was performed using EnergyPlus 9.6 software, while the experimental data was collected using TESTO 425 device. The result of this research shows that after applying nano-PCM and Aeropan techniques in window glass and walls, the US alignment has the highest reduction in energy consumption (annual monthly average of 11.80%) compared to LS and ILS alignments. This alignment includes an energy consumption reduction of 12.03% in the coldest, and, 11.66% in the hottest day of the year in addition to increasing the annual thermal comfort of school by the use of nanomaterials.
Prognostic scoring system based on indicators reflecting the tumor glandular differentiation and microenvironment for patients with colorectal cancer
Authors: Kobayashi Toshinori , Ishida Mitsuaki , Miki Hisanori , Yamamoto Nobuyuki , Harino Takashi , Yagyu Takuki , Hori Soshi , Hatta Masahiko , Hashimoto Yuki , Kotsuka Masaya , Yamasaki Makoto , Inoue Kentaro , Hirose Yoshinobu , Sekimoto Mitsugu
Published: February 2024

Prognostic stratification is an urgent concern for patients with colorectal cancer (CRC). The desmoplastic reaction (DR) is speculated to mirror the tumor microenvironment. DR types are considered independent prognostic indicators in CRC, but have not been incorporated in previous prognostic nomograms. We aimed to assess the prognostic significance of a novel approach incorporating histopathological indicators reflecting tumor glandular differentiation and microenvironment. We evaluated 329 consecutive patients with CRC who underwent surgical resection at Kansai Medical University. Histological glandular differentiation was scored as 2 (0 point), 3 (1 point), or 4 (2 points). Tumor buddings (TBs) were classified as TB1 (0 point), TB2 (1 point), or TB3 (2 points). pT1 or 2 was considered as 0 point, pT3 or 4 + DR non-immature type as 1 point, and pT3 or 4 + DR immature type as 2 points. Lymph node metastasis was classified as pN0 (0 point), pN1 (1 point), or pN2 (2 points). The preoperative carcinoembryonic antigen levels were categorized as < 5.0 ng/mL (0 point) and ≧ 5.0 (1 point). Considering these factors, the following D&M scoring system was applied: I (0–2 points), II (3–4 points), III (5–6 points), and IV (7–9 points). Kaplan-Meier curves showed significant differences in disease-specific survival and recurrence-free survival among the assigned scores, highlighting their enhanced utility compared with the American Joint Committee on Cancer 8th edition staging system. The D&M scoring system was valuable as the initial prognostic nomogram including DR.
An unusually prolonged Pacific-North American pattern promoted the quad-state tornado outbreak on 10-11 December 2021
Authors: Kim Dongmin , Lee Sang-Ki , Lopez Hosmay , Jeong Jong-Hoon , Hong Jin-Sil
Published: February 2024

This study examines the large-scale atmosphere-ocean environments that led to the winter tornado outbreak across the Ohio Valley on 10–11 December 2021, also known as the quad-state tornado outbreak. Here, we show that the quad-state tornado outbreak occurred under an exceptionally strong and prolonged negative Pacific-North American pattern (PNA), which developed around December 1 and persisted for a month. This unusual PNA produced a strong atmospheric ridge along the south and eastern US seaboard, which in turn helped warm up the Gulf of Mexico and produced large-scale environments conducive for tornadogenesis across the Ohio Valley. Further analysis shows that a broad region across the Ohio Valley is particularly vulnerable to extensive winter tornado outbreaks during long-lived negative PNA, whereas a limited region in the central US is exposed to winter tornado activity during short-lived negative PNA. Finally, although the PNA is a mode of internal variability that occurs with or without El Niño - Southern Oscillation, the occurrence of prolonged negative PNA is more frequent during La Niña than during El Niño.
Evaluating the water status of winter wheat using ground-based spectral data
Authors: Jin Ning , He Liang , Xia Haoming , Zhang Dongyan , Yu Qiang
Published: February 2024

Tracking crop water status is important for assessing crop water balance and developing water-saving irrigation strategies. These actions are of great theoretical and practical significance for promoting sustainable use of regional water resources and for improving crop water use efficiency. We conducted experimental field trials in 2012–2016 for winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under three water treatments (rainfed, deficit-irrigated, and fully-irrigated). Canopy spectral reflectance and leaf water content were measured during the growing season. The Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Ratio Vegetation Index (RVI), and Difference Vegetation Index (DVI) were calculated using all possible combinations of two spectral reflectance bands between 451 nm and 2400 nm. Correlations between these vegetation indices (VIs) and leaf water content before and after irrigation were evaluated. Finally, we established estimation models of leaf water content and compared 16 commonly used VIs (such as NDII, WI, and WBI) at 144 trial plots to select the optimal vegetation index and wavebands. We found that leaf water content and VIs for the three water treatments followed the order of fully-irrigated > deficit-irrigated > and rainfed. Leaf spectral reflectance increased from greening to jointing, and then decreased from jointing to harvest. The spectral bands that were sensitive to crop water content were mainly observed in the visible and near-infrared regions. The highest correlation between leaf water content and VIs was for NDVI when using spectral bands at 1191 nm and 1305 nm. A predictive model was subsequently proposed that accounted for 82% of the leaf water content variation. The average R-square for all VIs was 0.80, indicating that a number of uncertainties remain when only using VIs to track irrigation activity. These results provide guidance for selecting spectral bands when developing portable instruments for monitoring crop water status. Our method to monitor crop water status and irrigation activities is a template that can be used at regional scales.
Impact of educational interventions on Hepatitis B and C awareness among school students of Delhi NCR
Authors: Kaushal Kanica , Aggarwal Priyanka , Dahiya Neha , Bhardwaj Neha , Kumar Guresh
Published: February 2024

Background: Viral hepatitis, particularly B and C, is a major cause of liver cirrhosis and cancer, leading to about 1.4 million deaths annually. Alarmingly, less than 20% of those with hepatitis are aware of their status, with only 6.3% receiving treatment. School children can play a pivotal role in raising awareness and preventing the spread of infections. This intervention study focuses on understanding and enhancing the knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to Hepatitis B and C, among school children in Delhi NCR aiming to foster dialogue and awareness
Methods: An intervention study was conducted in selected schools across Delhi NCR between September and October 2022 to assess baseline knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to Hepatitis B and C. Three of seven schools were randomly selected by probability sampling representing 9-12 grade students where 901 students participated. Following this, an educational interventional program was conducted with the help of educational material, interactive sessions, and audio-visual aids. Post-intervention assessments were done to measure the impact on knowledge improvement.
Results: The study is expected to provide insights into the current level of awareness regarding Hepatitis B and C. Furthermore, the effectiveness of the intervention was analysed by using the pre-formed questionnaire. The average pre-test knowledge score was 8.9 ± 3.2, while the post-test average was 15.6 ± 4.4, indicating a substantial increase of 6.7 ± 4.7 points (+75.2%). There was a positive correlation of 0.240 between pre and post-test scores. Attitude change before and after the session showed a positive percentage change of +38.0% with a correlation of 0.351. The study indicated substantial improvements in knowledge about hepatitis B and C where awareness about transmission methods and risk factors notably improved.
Conclusion: This interventional study seek to bridge the knowledge gap among school children regarding Hepatitis B and C in Delhi NCR fostering a proactive approach towards prevention, detection, and treatment. The considerable rise in awareness and favourable changes in perspectives post-intervention say that specific health education initiatives are pivotal in raising awareness and comprehension of infectious diseases, ultimately contributing to the overall improvement of community health.
Association between social cohesion and food insecurity among adults in southern Brazil
Authors: Pereira Francielle Veloso Pinto , Canuto Raquel , Schuch Ilaine
Published: February 2024

Background
The situation of food insecurity (FI) has grown worldwide in recent years, especially in developing countries. Studies have shown that aspects of the social environment, such as social cohesion in the neighborhood, may be associated with FI; however, in Brazil, this topic has been little explored. The objective of this study is to verify the association between aspects of the perceived social environment of the neighborhood (social cohesion) and FI.
Methods
This is a cross-sectional study with adults and elderly individuals (n = 400) residing in a healthcare region in Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul (Brazil). The sample is selected proportionally from areas of higher and lower socioeconomic status, and data are collected through household interviews. The presence of FI is assessed using the Brazilian Food Insecurity Scale (short version). The perception of the neighborhood regarding social cohesion is obtained using a questionnaire validated for the Brazilian population. Poisson regression with robust variance was used to estimate the crude and adjusted prevalence ratios (PRs) and their respective 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs).
Results
Individuals with more positive perceptions of social cohesion in the neighborhood are less likely to experience FI than are those with less positive perceptions [PR = 0.73; 95% CI (0.55–0.97)].
Conclusions
The community social environment is independently associated with FI and may have characteristics that positively influence the probability of individuals experiencing FI. Interventions at the community level are necessary to address FI.
Comparative study of three synthesis methods of wollastonite: synthesis, characterization and CO2 mineral sequestration efficiency
Authors: Dahmani Jaouad , khalfaouy Redouan El , Tanji Karim , Gaidoumi Abdelali El , Kindri Hakima El , Addaou Abdellah , Lahsini Ahmed , Laajeb Ali
Published: February 2024

Wollastonite CaSiO3 material type was successfully prepared by three conventional methods: sol-gel, hydrothermal, and solution combustion synthesis. These as-prepared materials were employed for the mineral sequestration of CO2, and the ability of all synthesized materials to fix CO2 has been discussed. The pre- and post-sequestration impact analysis was validated by various characterization techniques, including X-ray diffraction, SEM, TGA, and infrared spectroscopy. X-ray diffraction results showed that all synthesized materials consistently retained the structure of wollastonite, indicating that the synthesis method did not influence the phase purity. The study also demonstrated that the CaSiO3 material produced by the solution combustion method exhibited reduced crystallite size, elucidating its increased ability to bind CO2 during the sequestration process, as supported by the TGA results. These results suggest that particle size can affect carbonate CaCO3 formation. Finally, this work provides us with insights and suggestions about the use of solution combustion as a promising method to be applied for the synthesis of environment-oriented materials that may capture other atmospheric gases, not only CO2.
Effect of nickel acetyl acetonate as lubricant additive in base oils with different molecular structure on in-situ formation and tribomechanism of carbon-based tribofilms of steel-steel sliding pair
Authors: Peng Feng , FAN Shuguang , Song Ningning , Gao Chuanping , Zhang Shengmao , Zhang Yujuan
Published: February 2024

Nickel acetyl acetonate (Ni(acac)2), a metal-organic compound, was directly dispersed in base oils alkylated naphthalene (AN-5), diisooctyl sebacate (DIOS), poly-α-olefin (PAO6), and 150N in the presence of commercial dispersant RF1151 (monoallyl poly(isobutylene succinimide). The tribological properties of the lubricants were tested with a four-ball friction and wear tester. The friction-induced in-situ formation of carbon films on rubbed steel surfaces under the catalysis of Ni(acac)2 was investigated, and the as-formed carbon films were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The results show that Ni(acac)2 added in the base oils can release metallic Ni to form nickel layer on the rubbed metal sub-surfaces and catalyze the degradation of the base oil molecules adsorbed to form carbon-based tribofilms. The carbon film formed from AN-5 with six-membered ring structure has a high degree of graphitization and the best friction-reducing and antiwear abilities, and those formed from PAO6 and 150N with linear structure have a low degree of graphitization as well as good tribological properties. Under the lubrication of DIOS with Ni(acac)2, however, there is no carbon film formation while the tribological properties of the lubricant are relatively poor, due to the absence of the catalytic metallic Ni and nickel oxide layer on the rubbed metal sub-surface. Thanks to the catalytic effect of metallic Ni released from Ni(acac)2 for the degradation of various base oils with different molecular structure, the present approach could provide a rational pathway to tune the in-situ formation of carbon-based tribofilm on rubbed steel surfaces so as to effectively reduce the friction and wear of steel-steel sliding pair.
Detection of the 30-bp deletion and protein expression of Epstein-Barr virus latent membrane protein 1 in extranodal nasal type NK/T-cell lymphoma and its prognostic significance
Authors: Lu Xingmei , Li Peng , Huang Kate , Ji Xiuhuan , Lin Rixun , Wang Xiaoyu
Published: February 2024

Extranodal natural killer/T-cell lymphoma (ENKTL) is strongly associated with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection. Latent membrane protein 1 (LMP1) is a major viral oncogene in the EBV carcinogenic process, and 30-base pair (bp) deletion (del-LMP1) was the most frequent mutation. Our study aimed to investigate the prognostic significance of del-LMP1 and LMP1 expression in ENKTL. Total DNA was extracted from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues. Nested polymerase chain reaction was used to identify the del-LMP1, and immunohistochemistry was used to detect LMP1 protein expression. Our results showed that the LMP1 gene was detected in 37/42 cases of ENKTL, of which 2 cases were wild-type, 35 cases had 30-bp deletion, and LMP1-positive expression was detected in 21/42 cases. In the control group, the LMP1 gene was detected in 6/10 cases, and all had 30-bp deletion; LMP1-positive was detected in 4/10 cases. The Fisher’s exact test showed no difference between the two groups in LMP1 gene, del-LMP1, and LMP1 expression. At the same time, del-LMP1 and LMP1 expression in ENKTL had no significant correlation with age, gender, angiodestruction, Ki67 index, and other clinical characteristics, but LMP1-positive expression was associated with tissue necrosis (p = 0.030). ENKTL patients with wild-type LMP1 survived longer than the median survival time of patients with del-LMP1, but the 1-year survival rate in the LMP1-positive group was lower than in the LMP1-negative group. The findings suggest that LMP1 may be closely related to ENKTL, del-LMP1 and LMP1-positive expression may be related to the poor prognosis of this lymphoma in Wenzhou.
The loss of OPA1 accelerates intervertebral disc degeneration and osteoarthritis in aged mice
Authors: Risbud Makarand , Madhu Vedavathi , Hernandez-Meadows Miriam , Coleman Ashley , Sao Kimheak , Inguito Kameron , Haslam Owen , Boneski Paige , Sesaki Hiromi , Collins John
Published: February 2024

NP cells of the intervertebral disc and articular chondrocytes reside in avascular and hypoxic tissue niches. As a consequence of these environmental constraints the cells are primarily glycolytic in nature and were long thought to have a minimal reliance on mitochondrial function. Recent studies have challenged this long-held view and highlighted the increasingly important role of mitochondria in the physiology of these tissues. However, the foundational understanding of mechanisms governing mitochondrial dynamics and function in these tissues is lacking. We investigated the role of mitochondrial fusion protein OPA1 in maintaining the spine and knee joint health in mice. OPA1 knockdown in NP cells altered mitochondrial size and cristae shape and increased the oxygen consumption rate without affecting ATP synthesis. OPA1 governed the morphology of multiple organelles, including peroxisomes, early endosomes and cis-Golgi and its loss resulted in the dysregulation of NP cell autophagy. Metabolic profiling and 13C-flux analyses revealed TCA cycle anaplerosis and altered metabolism in OPA1-deficient NP cells. Noteworthy, Opa1AcanCreERT2 mice with Opa1 deletion in disc and cartilage showed age-dependent disc degeneration, osteoarthritis, and vertebral osteopenia. Our findings underscore that OPA1 regulation of mitochondrial dynamics and multi-organelle interactions is critical in preserving metabolic homeostasis of disc and cartilage.
Leaky pollination barrier in edaphic vicarious alpine plants
Authors: Huber Thomas M. , Fuchs Roman , Robin Julian , Tribsch Andreas , Dötterl Stefan , Schaefer Hanno
Published: February 2024

Adaptation to siliceous versus carbonate substrates is thought to be an important driver of speciation in the alpine flora. The role of the pollination system in formation and maintenance of such species is presently unclear. Here, we chose three species pairs in the genera Gentiana, Primula, and Rhododendron which often occur in geographic proximity or even sympatry, to study the existence of pollination barriers in these lineages. Using remote camera and direct observation approaches, scent and color analyses, and morphological comparisons, we tested the hypothesis that divergent pollinator communities help to maintain genetic separation of plant populations adapted to different soil types. We found differences in frequency, diurnal activity and to some extent also community composition of flower visitors in edaphic vicarious species pairs. Floral traits like color and scent as well as plant-flower-visitor co-distributions indicate that there are divergent but overlapping pollination systems. Our results suggest a relatively small reproductive barrier function of the pollination system. While the adaptation to different soils still seems to be the main force keeping edaphic vicarious alpine plants genetically separated, pollinators might break down hybridization barriers in contact areas.
Graphical Approach to Unveil Evolutionary Relationship from DNA Sequence Analysis
Authors: Khan Riaz Hussain , Salamat Nadeem , Yousef Amr , Baig A. Q. , Shaikh Zaffar Ahmed , Mikhaylov Alexey
Published: February 2024

Graph theory is an efficient bioinformatics approach that offers a methodical approach to modelling and evaluating complex biological data. In this work graph theory was utilized for comparing DNA sequences. Each DNA sequence was break up into nucleotide couples, from which weighted loop digraphs with sixteen vertices was constructed. To assess the sequence similarity distance metrics like Cosine, Correlation, and Jaccard were employed. Nucleotides fragments of 1 different species were examined to confirm the methodology. This research elucidate as an effective tool graph theory is applied for sequence comparison and investigation of biological data in the field of bioinformatics.
Comparative Study on the Application of Water Resources Index for a Highly-Regulated Urbanized Basin
Authors: Ishak Ahmad Fakhri , Lee Wei-Koon , Lim Foo Hoat
Published: February 2024

As water scarcity intensifies in the face of climate change, water resources decision-making process requires the selection of appropriate indices which are subjected to accurate interpretation. This study undertakes a comparative analysis of three water resources indices: the Falkenmark Indicator (FI), Water Stress Index (WSI) and Water Resources Index (WRI). These indices are useful to assess water resource availability but each using different methodology and thus giving different insights to the basin water resource condition. We consider Klang River basin in Malaysia, a highly-regulated and urbanized basin with escalating water demand and competition between sectorial users. The indicator/ indices are derived from water allocation modelling based on historical data between year 2016 to 2018. Results show that consideration of basin storage (WRI) and water abstraction (WSI) offers more realistic representation of the basin water availability. The WRI offers further advantage in terms of temporal resolution over the course of the calendar year. It is concluded that decision-makers and stakeholders stand to benefit from effective water resource management strategies derived based on reliable analysis using the most relevant index.
A Late Nonsyndromic Craniosynostosis with Sagittal, Metopic, and Bilateral Coronal Suture Fusion: Case Report
Authors: Baskurt Ozan , Hicdonmez Tufan
Published: February 2024

Multisutural synostosis, characterized by the fusion of multiple cranial sutures without a clear underlying syndrome, represents a rare subtype of craniosynostosis. Particularly uncommon is the simultaneous fusion of the sagittal, metopic, and bilateral coronal sutures. This report details the case of a 50-month-old boy, previously healthy, who has displayed an abnormal head shape since infancy due to complex, non-syndromic craniosynostosis involving the simultaneous fusion of four sutures. The closure of the sagittal, metopic, and bilateral coronal sutures has led to a distinct head shape marked by flattening of the forehead and anterior skull, contrasting with the typical Mercedes-Benz pattern observed in craniosynostosis cases. Surgical intervention involved osteotomy with symmetrical barrel staves in the parietal and frontal regions, resulting in improved forehead contour following the operation.
Impacts of urban-rural integration on landscape patterns and their implications for landscape sustainability: The case of Changsha, China
Authors: He Yanhua , Wen Chubing , Fang Xuening , Sun Xiao
Published: February 2024

ContextLandscape patterns result from complex social-ecological interactions, such as urban-rural integration which is especially notable in China. However, the impacts of urban-rural integration on landscape sustainability remain understudied.ObjectivesOur objectives were to examine the impacts of urban-rural integration on landscape pattern and to explore its implications for landscape sustainability.MethodsThe study area is the Changsha metropolitan area in central China, which has undergone urban-rural integration since 2005. A three-step approach was used to: (1) assess the spatiotemporal patterns of urban-rural integration dynamics with a multidimensional indicator system; (2) quantify landscape pattern dynamics using landscape metrics; and (3) explore the main drivers and processes in urban-rural integration responsible for the observed changes in landscape pattern through a time-fixed effects model.ResultsOur findings reveal a significant increase in the level of urban-rural integration in Changsha metropolitan area from 2005 to 2020. Concurrently, the regional landscape has experienced increasing trends characterized by the loss and fragmentation of ecological and agricultural patches, alongside heightened connectivity among constructed patches. Urban-rural integration exerts notable impacts on landscape patterns through processes such as societal convergence, economic interaction, technology sharing, and spatial interlinkage, subsequently influencing landscape (un)sustainability.ConclusionsDifferent drivers and processes of urban-rural integration exhibit varying effects on landscape patterns, with complex and intertwined impacts on landscape sustainability. Therefore, integrated landscape governance is imperative to address the disadvantages of urban-rural integration while strategically leveraging its advantages in various social-ecological contexts.