bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unexpected mobility activities of the sedentary sea pen Pteroeides griseum (Cnidaria: Scleralcyonacea)
Authors: Giusti Michela , Angiolillo Michela , Canese Simonepietro , Tunesi Leonardo
Published: December 2023

The sea pen Pteroeides griseum (Bohadsch, 1761), belonging to the order Scleralcyonacea (Cnidaria, Octocorallia), is a lesser-known anthozoan species well-adapted to inhabit soft seabed environments, particularly muddy or sandy substrates. Like other sea pens, it can grow in dense aggregations in both infra- and circalittoral zones, significantly enhancing the complexity and biodiversity of these habitats. Contrary to the prevailing notion that this species lacks the capability for active movement across the seabed, we present the first recorded observation of rolling behaviour in a P. griseum colony, documented during a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) survey. In this survey, a colony assumed a wheel-like shape, likely by inflating its body with seawater, initiating a rolling motion across the seabed, driven by the strong currents in the area. Without any apparent disturbance from the ROV, the colony covered a linear distance of approximately 7 m within a span of 4 minutes. This study documents the peculiar rolling behaviour exhibited by this species, underscoring the significance of this capacity in advancing our understanding of the species' biology and ecology.
Causal relationship between circulating cytokines and the risk of systemic sclerosis: A bidirectional Mendelian-randomization study
Authors: Song Hua , Zheng Jinxin , Shao Shunzi , Chen Hongwei , Zhu Yun , Kassim Sajjaad , Wang Dandan , Sun Lingyun
Published: December 2023

Objectives
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease characterized by immune dysfunction, vasculopathy, and fibrosis. While cytokines likely contribute to SSc pathogenesis, it is unclear whether particular cytokines play a causal role. We aimed to investigate potential causal relationships between circulating cytokines and SSc using Mendelian randomization.
Methods
We conducted a bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization study using summary data from published genome-wide association studies of SSc (2,313 cases, 15,881 controls) and 43 cytokines (up to 31,781 individuals). Single nucleotide polymorphisms associated with cytokine levels were selected as instruments to proxy genetically determined circulating concentrations. Potential causal relationships between exposures and outcomes were investigated primarily through inverse variance weighted Mendelian randomization analysis. To substantiate the robustness of our findings, we additionally conducted several complementary sensitivity analyses utilizing alternative Mendelian randomization methods, including MR-Egger, weighted median, simple and weighted mode, and MR-PRESSO.
Results
Among the cytokines analyzed, tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) demonstrated a significant causal association, whereby genetically predicted lower TRAIL levels increased SSc risk. Other circulating cytokines including TGF-β, IL-6, and PDGF, have no causal relationship with SSc.
Conclusion
Our findings implicate reduced circulating TRAIL level as a potential causal factor in SSc risk, providing novel insights into disease pathogenesis. These findings position TRAIL as a putative upstream regulator in SSc, suggesting modulation of the TRAIL signaling cascade may represent a promising therapeutic approach in SSc.
Guideline-Discordant Neuro-prognostication as an Indicator of Self-Fulfilling Prophecy Bias in Post-Cardiac Arrest Care
Authors: Mian Tabarak M. , Sharma Yash , Guerra Antonio , Idris Ahamed , Sharma Kartavya
Published: December 2023

Background
Higher rates of ‘early’ withdrawal of life supportive therapy (WLST), often defined as a timeframe less than 72 hours after cardiac resuscitation, have been interpreted as indicating therapeutic pessimism and lower post-resuscitation quality of care. However, this approach overlooks guideline-congruent criteria and patient specific factors that justify early WLST, and conversely, ignores the possibility of guideline discordant WLST beyond 72 hours. In this retrospective study of post-cardiac arrest patients who underwent WLST due to predicted poor neurological outcome (WLST-N), we adjudicated guideline discordance at the individual patient level to better quantify the potential extent of self-fulfilling prophecy bias.
Methods
Out-of-hospital cardiac arrest survivors spanning over a decade at a single institution were identified from two databases – Group 1: Dallas-Fort Worth Resuscitation Outcomes Consortium Cardiac Arrest registry (Epistry) (2011–2015); Group 2: Get With The Guidelines® resuscitation registry (2016–2022). Electronic medical records were manually reviewed to identify patients who died from WLST-N. We assessed the concordance of objective clinical data with consensus recommendations from the American Academy of Neurology 2006 practice parameters for Group 1, and European Resuscitation Council 2014 guidelines for Group 2.
Results
Guideline-discordant neuro-prognostication was found in 9% of patients (13 of 139) who survived until Intensive Care Unit admission and 25% (13 of 52) of WLST-N cases. Early WLST-N at < 72 hours occurred in 35% (18 of 52) of WLST-N cases, but half of these prognostic decisions were adjudicated as appropriately predictive of poor outcome (Cerebral Performance Category 3–5).
Conclusion
The potential extent of self-fulfilling prophecy bias due to therapeutic pessimism may be much lower than suspected based on published rates of ‘early’ WLST-N.
Epidemiological analysis and preventive strategies of pediatric burns inpatients in a Hangzhou hospital from 2020 to 2022: a retrospective study
Authors: Zhou Yichong , Dai Yefeng , Yue Xiaojie , Liu Yuxin , Zhao Xiong , Lin Li
Published: December 2023

Objective
The epidemiological characteristics of pediatric burn inpatients in our hospital over the past three years were analyzed to provide some advice for prevention and treatment strategies.
Methods
Data from 728 pediatric burn inpatients younger than 14 years of age admitted to our unit between January 1, 2019, and December 31, 2019, were collected. Age, gender, injury condition, injury factors, injury time, postinjury treatment and prognosis were analyzed.
Results
The proportion of children in the 1–3 age group was the highest (457 patients, 62.8%). 161 burn injuries (22.1%) occurred at a single site, and 567 burn injuries (77.9%) occurred at two or more sites at the same time. The burn sites from the most to least common were the trunk, upper limb, lower limb, head, face and neck, hip and perineum. The burn area was mostly between 5%-15% of the total body surface area (TBSA) (433 patients, 59.5%), the burn depth was mostly shallow (Ⅱ° to deep Ⅱ°) (405 patients, 55.6%), and the severity was mostly moderate (470 patients, 64.6%). Hydrothermal scald (673 patients, 92.4%) was the main injury factor in this group, followed by flame burn (32 patients, 4.4%). With increasing age, the proportion of hydrothermal scald gradually decreased, and the proportion of flame and other causes of burns gradually increased; these differences were statistically significant (х2= 47.471, P < 0.01). There were 672 burn cases in the household (92.3%) and 56 burn cases in outdoor and public places (7.7%). The proportion of outdoor and public burn injuries in rural children was greater than that in urban and suburban children. The daily peak burn times were 11:00–13:00, 17:00 and 20:00, and the monthly peak burn times were May, July and October, respectively. There were only 183 patients (25.1%) who received regular cold therapy after injury. Clinical outcomes were significantly different between patients who received reasonable treatment and those who did not (Z = 3.439, P < 0.01) and between those who received rational treatment and those who received irrational treatment (Z = 2.040, P < 0.05). Among the pediatric burn inpatients discharged with complete healing of the II° wound, the hospital stay of the children covered with acellular dermis was significantly shorter than that of the children in the conventional dressing change group (t = 3.646, P = 0.004).
Conclusion
Pediatric burns often occurred at 1–3 years of age, and most of the children had Ⅱ° combined deep burns. Indoor hydrothermal scald was the main injury factor, and regular cold therapy was not widely used. Early application of acellular dermis covering II° wounds can accelerate wound healing and reduce the length of hospital stay.
Increased serum caspase-1 in adult-onset Still’s disease
Authors: Matsumoto Haruki , Yoshida Shuhei , Koga Tomohiro , Fujita Yuya , Sumichika Yuya , Saito Kenji , Sato Shuzo , Asano Tomoyuki , Mizokami Masashi , Sugiyama Masaya , Migita Kiyoshi
Published: December 2023

Background
Caspase-1 is an essential component in the inflammasome activation cascade. This study assessed the potential of serum caspase-1 level as an inflammatory biomarker in patients with adult-onset Still’s disease (AOSD).
Methods
The study included 51 consecutive patients diagnosed with AOSD based on the Yamaguchi criteria, 66 patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) as a disease control, and 36 healthy subjects. Serum concentrations of caspase-1 were measured using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). In AOSD patients, the serum levels of 69 cytokines were analyzed using a multi-suspension cytokine array, and a cluster analysis of each cytokine was performed to identify specific molecular networks.
Results
AOSD patients had significantly increased serum caspase-1 levels versus RA patients (p < 0.001) and healthy subjects (p < 0.001). Serum caspase-1 also had significant positive correlations with AOSD disease activity score (Pouchot score r = 0.59, p < 0.001) and serum ferritin (r = 0.54, p < 0.001). Furthermore, among AOSD patients, significant correlations existed between serum caspase-1 and inflammatory cytokines, including IL-18. On immunoblot analysis, the cleaved form of caspase-1 (p20) was detected in the serum of untreated AOSD patients not in those from inactive AOSD patients receiving immunosuppressive treatments.
Conclusions
Caspase-1 can be a useful biomarker for the diagnosis and monitoring of AOSD. Activation of caspase-1 could be correlated with the inflammatory component of AOSD, specifically through the induction of proinflammatory cytokines via inflammasome activation cascades.
Temperature Dependence of Viscoelasticity of Lubricating Oil with Adsorptive Polymer Additives Sheared in Nanogaps
Authors: Nozue Takumi , Itoh Shintaro , Okubo Naoya , Fukuzawa Kenji , Zhang Hedong , Azuma Naoki
Published: December 2023

Adsorptive polymer additives have been reported to improve the retention capacity of oil films under hydrodynamic lubrication and to reduce friction under boundary lubrication. These effects are believed to result from the formation of a polymer adsorption film on the surface that acts as a lubricious coating. Polymer adsorption films have become dominant in nanometer-order microscopic gaps. However, their mechanical properties are difficult to quantify. This hinders the development of polymer additives. In our previous study, we successfully measured the shear viscoelasticity of lubricants (base oils) sheared in nanogaps using an originally developed measurement method called the fiber wobbling method (FWM). In this study, we measured the shear viscoelasticity of polymer-added lubricants in nanogaps by using FWM. In addition, we developed a heating stage in the FWM to quantify the temperature dependence of shear viscoelasticity in nanogaps. As a result, the viscosity index improved and elasticity was observed in the nanogap, where the polymer adsorption film was dominant. Furthermore, our results indicate that the elasticity of the adsorbed polymer film originates from entropic elasticity.
Cultural Characteristics, Genetic Diversity and Population Structure Analysis of an Emerging False Smut Pathogen Ustilaginoidea Virens Collected from Different Agro Climatic Zones of India
Authors: Bashyal Bishnu Maya , Yadav Gaurav Kumar , Chugh Chetna , Sharma Sapna , Sunani Sunil Kumar , Shakouka Mohamad Ayham , Gupta Ashish Kumar , Krishnan Gopala
Published: December 2023

Rice false smut (RFS) instigated by the fungus Ustilaginoidea virens, has emerged as one of the most devastating grain diseases in the mainstream of rice-planting regions worldwide. A total of fifty six distinct isolates of Ustilaginoidea virens collected from different states of India were characterized morphologically and also at molecular level. Isolates showed variation in the size of the spore, color of mycelium and shape of the hyphae. The spores were globose, irregularly round to elliptical and warty on the surface with diameters ranging from 4.12 to 6.34 µm. The maximum colony diameter was found in Telangana isolate Uv305 (66.00 mm) and minimum was in Uttar Pradesh isolate Uv214 (17.50 mm). Genetic Diversity was analyzed by using 12 SSR primers out of which 7 were found to be polymorphic The number of alleles per locus vary from 5 to10. The maximum number of polymorphism was shown by UvSSR97 followed by UVSSR79, UvSSR226 and Uv SSR276 while least polymorphism was observed in UvSSR107, and Uv163 primer. The Dendrogram generated based on polymorphic data revealed a considerable amount of diversity by grouping the isolates in five clusters. The PIC ranged from 0.079 to 0.900. The value of Shannon information index ranged from 2.99 to 4.52. The pairwise population fixation index (FST) value also indicated significant genetic variation among all compared geographical populations. All the isolates could be grouped into three groups according to their genetic structure confirmed through model based cluster algorithm using STRUCTURE v2.3.4. This in-depth understanding of U. virens population structure and diversity holds valuable implications for effectively managing rice false smut disease on a comprehensive scale.
Yu Linzhu alleviates primary ovarian insufficiency by improving proliferation and energy metabolism of granulosa cells through HIF1α/Cx43 pathway
Authors: Ruan Xin , Wang Pengxu , Wei Maolin , Yang Qingqing , Dong Xiaoying
Published: December 2023

Background
Yu Linzhu (YLZ) is a classical Chinese traditional fomula, which has been used more than 600 years regulating menstruation to help pregnancy. However, the mechanism of modern scientific action of YLZ needs to be further studied.
Methods
Thirty SD female rats were divided into three groups to prepare the blank serum and drug-containing serum, and then using UHPLC-QE-MS to identify the ingredients of YLZ and it’s drug-containing serum. Twenty-four SD female rats were divided four groups, except the control group, 4-vinylcyclohexene dicycloxide (VCD) was intraperitoneally injected to establish a primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) model of all groups. By using vaginal smear to show that the estrous cycle of rats was disturbed after modeling, indicate that the POI model was successfully established. The ELISA test was used to measure the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), estradiol (E2) and anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) levels in the serum of rats. HE stain was used to assess the morphology of ovarian tissue. The localization and relative expression levels of CX43 protein were detected by tissue immunofluorescence. Primary ovarian granulosa cells (GCs) were identified by cellular immunofluorescence. CCK8 was used to screen time and concentration of drug-containing serum and evaluate the proliferation effect of YLZ on VCD-induced GCs. ATP kit and Seahorse XFe24 were used to detect energy production and real-time glycolytic metabolism rate of GCs. mRNA and protein expression levels of HIF1α, CX43, PEK, LDH, HK1 were detected by RT-PCR and WB.
Results
UHPLC-QE-MS found 1702 ingredients of YLZ and 80 constituents migrating to blood. YLZ reduced the FSH while increased the AMH and E2 levels. In ovarian tissues, YLZ improved ovarian morphology, follicle development and the relative expression of CX43. In vitro studies, we found that YLZ increased the proliferative activity of GCs, ATP levels, glycolytic metabolic rate, HIF1α, CX43, PEK, HK1, LDH mRNA and protein levels.
Conclusions
The study indicated that YLZ increased the proliferation and glycolytic energy metabolism of GCs to improve the follicular development so that further alleviated the ovarian function.
Association Between Early Echocardiography Screening and Intraventricular Hemorrhage in Preterm Infants: A Prospective Observational Multicenter Study
Authors: Terroba-Seara Sandra , Oulego-Erroz Ignacio , Palanca-Arias Daniel , Galve-Pradel Zenaida , Delgado-Nicolas Sara , Pérez-Pérez Alicia , Rodríguez-Ozcoidi Jorge , Lavilla-Oiz Ana , Bravo María Carmen , Lavanda-Montalvo Leticia , Méndez-Abad Paula , Zafra-Rodríguez Pamela , Rodeño-Fernández Lorena , Montero-Gato Jon , Bustamante-Hervás Carmen , Val Cristina Vega-Del , Rodríguez-Fanjul Javier , Mayordomo-Colunga Juan , Alegría-Echauri Iosune , Pérez-González Andrea
Published: December 2023

Purpose:To determine whether the application of a protocolized early echocardiographic screening for low systemic blood flow and guided inotropic therapy is associated with reduced intraventricular hemorrhage in preterm infants.
Methods: Prospective, observational multicenter study between September 2020 and September 2021 in nine neonatal intensive care units. Preterm infants below 33 weeks of gestational age were eligible. The exposure variable was early targeted neonatal echocardiography screening for low systemic blood flow. Five of the centers performed early screening and guided inotrope therapy (intervention group), and 4 centers did not (control group). Our main outcome was >grade II intraventricular hemorrhage or death within the first 7 days of life. Inverse probability of treatment weighting based on the propensity score accounting for the clustered nature of data was used for the main analysis.
Results: 332 preterm infants (131 in the intervention group and 201 in thecontrol group) were included. Protocolized early echocardiography screening for low systemic blood flow and guided inotropic treatment was associated with a significant reduction in > grade II intraventricular hemorrhage or early death (odds ratio 0.285 (95% CI: 0.133-0.611); p=0.001)
Conclusions: Early echocardiography screening for low systemic blood flow and guided inotropic treatment may reduce the incidence of intraventricular hemorrhage in preterm infants.
Clinical Features at Diagnosis Are Associated With the Need of Emergency Invasive Procedures and Intensive Care Unit Admission in Patients With High-risk Neuroblastoma – A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Voglino Valerio , Persano Giorgio , Martucci Cristina , Ioris Maria Antonietta , Castellano Aurora , Serra Annalisa , Prete Laura Del , Giordano Ugo , Natali Gian Luigi , Paolo Pier Luigi , Stracuzzi Alessandra , Crocoli Alessandro , Inserra Alessandro
Published: December 2023

Purpose
Patients affected by high-risk may occasionally need emergency procedures due to acute complications during induction chemotherapy.
The aim of the present study is to find risk factors associated with these complications.
Methods
Patients diagnosed with high-risk neuroblastoma from January 2013 until February 2022 were retrospectively reviewed.
Primary outcomes were the need of emergency invasive procedures and the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) admission.
Clinical data at diagnosis were recorded and the correlation with the primary outcomes was analyzed.
Results
Fifty patients were diagnosed with high-risk neuroblastoma.
Six patients required emergency procedures for hemothorax (2 patients), hemothorax and hemoperitoneum (1 patient), hydronephrosis (3 patients); two of them were admitted to ICU.
Factors associated with emergency procedures were stage 2 hypertension (p = 0.0001), higher number of vascular IDRF (p= 0,0068), larger diameter of the primary tumor (p = 0,0043), high LDH levels (p < 0.0001) and low levels of urinary VMA (p < 0.0001).
Factors associated with ICU admission were stage 2 hypertension (p = 0,0229), high levels of LDH (p < 0.0001) and low levels of urinary VMA (p< 0.0001).
Discussion
Specific features at diagnosis are associated with the need of emergency invasive procedures and ICU admission in high-risk neuroblastoma patients.
Numerical simulation of contact surface stress distribution based on stress-magnetization effect surface
Authors: Zhao Shuai , Xu Xinjun , BI Yaxuan
Published: December 2023

Taking the rough surface of C45 steel grinding as the research object, we established a two-dimensional finite element model of the rough surface and its surrounding air by using ANSYS, and studied the contact properties between the rough surface and the rigid plane under normal load (≤ 10MPa). On this basis, ANSYS Apdl language was used to establish a force-magnetic coupling model, and further simulated the impact of different load conditions on the leakage magnetic field on the contact surface. The results showed that according to the zero-crossing point of the normal component of the leakage magnetic field or the extreme point of the tangential component, the number of stress concentrations on the contact surface and the stress level of the corresponding area can be effectively determined. This method has certain reference value for studying the surface contact stress distribution between parts.
Delineating the relationship between planting density and agronomic performance in hybrid winter wheat for elevated yield and nitrogen utilization in the eastern Huang-Huai-Hai Region
Authors: zhang yulu , Du yihang , Li wenlu , Zhu Zixin , Jia Jing , Meng Fanggang , Zhang Shenquan , zhao changxing
Published: December 2023

The study aimed to clarify the impact of different planting densities on accumulation and remobilization of dry matter and nitrogen as well as yield in hybrid winter wheat varieties and their relationships, providing the theoretical basis for high-yield cultivation of hybrid winter wheat in the eastern Huang-Huai-Hai region. During the 2021–2023 winter wheat growing seasons, hybrid variety ‘Jingmai 17’ and conventional variety ‘Jimai 22’ were selected as experimental materials. The study investigated the effects of three planting densities (150 plants/m², 300 plants/m², and 450 plants/m²) on the flag leaf SPAD value, leaf area of per culm (LAC), dry matter and nitrogen accumulation and remobilization, grain yield (GY), and its components during the winter wheat growth period. The findings indicated that the hybrid variety ‘Jingmai 17’ maintained a larger LAC after anthesis, exhibited a slower decline in flag leaf SPAD value during the middle to late grain-filling stages, and had a longer duration of green leaf area post-anthesis, which was conducive to the accumulation of photosynthetic assimilates. This was evidenced by the higher biomass at maturity and post-anthesis, as well as biomass remobilization, thousand-grain weight (TGW), and grain numbers per unit area (GN), compared to ‘Jimai 22’, displaying a distinct heterosis with a yield exceeding standard of up to 10.6%. At a planting density of 300 plants/m², both varieties achieved a suitable LAC, which helped to maintain flag leaf SPAD values during the grain-filling stages, and a slower rate of leaf senescence post-anthesis. This suitable population density enhanced the biomass at maturity, post-anthesis, and the harvest index (HI), resulting in higher GN and TGW, and thus, a higher yield. At 300 plants/m², both varieties not only had higher nitrogen accumulation at maturity but also maintained high pre-anthesis nitrogen remobilization and remobilization rate, and the higher yield resulted in moderate nitrogen use efficiency (NUE). Notably, ‘Jingmai 17’ exhibited significant heterosis in nitrogen harvest index (NHI) and NUE. In conclusion, the hybrid variety ‘Jingmai 17’ demonstrated significant heterosis, and a planting density of 300 plants/m² was found to optimally balance yield and NUE.
Myeloid signature in the tumor immune microenvironment impacts the prognosis of urachal carcinoma
Authors: Zhou Tailai , Chen Hengxin , Wang Yuhang , Wu Menghai , Wang Yinzhao , Dao Pinghong , Huang Chuyang , Li Yong , Yan Yuzhong , Chen Minfeng
Published: December 2023

Purpose
Urachal carcinoma, an infrequent yet aggressive tumor, lacks extensive research regarding its pathogenesis and prognosis. The tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) significantly influences the prognosis of malignant tumors. Consequently, understanding the role of TIME in urachal carcinoma remains a critical and unmet need.
Methods
We assessed TIME markers in both tumoral (T) and stromal (S) regions of urachal carcinoma using immunohistochemistry. Subsequently, a risk prediction function (Riskscore) was developed through Lasso regression analysis. The performance of Riskscore was validated in different cohorts using various statistical analyses. Additionally, pathway enrichment analysis was employed to unveil potential mechanisms underlying tumor progression, leading to the identification of potential therapeutic drugs.
Results
Among the 15 cell markers examined, CD16S, CD68S, and CD11bS exhibited significant associations with overall survival in urachal carcinoma. The Riskscore, constructed based on these three myeloid markers, accurately predicted prognosis, offering insights into potential pathways influencing urachal carcinoma progression and identifying promising candidate drugs.
Conclusions
In this study, we established a Riskscore based on the myeloid signature of urachal carcinoma and, for the first time, conducted genetic sequencing for urachal carcinoma. This elucidated insights into the immune landscape and potential therapeutic agents. Our work contributes to advancing the diagnosis and treatment strategies for urachal carcinoma.
Complex biological network analysis revealed the regulation of genes under multiple fungal infected silk of Zea mays
Authors: Kumar Amrendra , Arunachalam Annamalai , Lakshmi PTV
Published: December 2023

Background
Maize (Zea mays L.) is a more versatile and multi-purpose crop, primarily grown as food and feed, but now extensively applied in beauty, drug, and biofuel energy. However, the decline in production is reported to be promoted by the fungal pathogens, which invade developing grain using silk channels and hampering the quantity and quality of maize silk. Since understanding the molecular mechanisms will increase the chance of reducing the fungal infection, an integrated omics approach was undertaken on the transcriptome datasets with the multi-fungus at the maize silks.
Results
The available data sets were classed to A and B for simplicity, but enhancement in the analysis based on the intra and inter-transcriptomic level, keeping control data sets for comparing under the infected conditions. Hence, based on the analysis, the differentially expressed transcript isoforms were identified, which revealed approximately 39651 and 34027 transcript isoforms, 3819 and 3320 alternatively spliced regions along classes A and B. On examination, about 3212 lncRNAs were identified, among which 530 lncRNAs expressed were recognized to play a key role in multiple infectious conditions. Investigation on the complex biological network mediated by the combinations of miRNAs with lncRNAs, lncRNAs with transcript isoforms, lncRNAs with alternatively spliced genes. Interestingly, about 82 lncRNAs exhibited intersectional interactions with miRNAs, AS, and Tiso, which decoded for 103 genes.
Conclusions
This study might have contributed to key functions of response to stimulus, regulating the metabolic and cellular process during the development and of the plants, which eventually enhanced the plants immune or defence mechanisms.
Kirillov-Lipsman orbit method of a class of Gelfand pairs
Authors: Rahali Aymen
Published: December 2023

Let $G:=K\ltimes N$ be the semidirect product with Lie algebra $\mathfrak{g},$ where $N$ is a connected and simply connected nilpotent Lie group, and $K$ is a subgroup of the automorphism group, $Aut(N),$ of $N.$ We say that the pair $(K,N)$ is a nilpotent Gelfand pair when the set $L_K^1(N)$ of integrable $K$-invariant functions on $N$ forms an abelian algebra under convolution.According to Lipsman, the unitary dual $\widehat{G}$ of $G$ is in one-to-one correspondence with the space of admissible coadjoint orbits $\mathfrak{g}^\ddag/G$ of $G.$ Under some assumptions on the pair $(K,N)$ we will show in this work, that the quotient topology of $\mathfrak{g}^\ddag/G$ could be read from the usual topology of some parameters space $\mathcal{P},$ called Mackey's parameters space (will be defined below in section 3). Furthermore, we show that the Kirillov-Lipsman bijection $$\widehat{G}\simeq\mathfrak{g}^\ddagger/G$$is a homeomorphism for a class of Lie groups associated with the nilpotent Gelfand pairs $(K,N).$
PM2.5 prediction based on attention mechanism and Bi-LSTM
Authors: Huang Xin , Liu Zuhan
Published: December 2023

This study enhances the Bi-LSTM model by incorporating an attention mechanism, which could provide the model with stronger data generalization capabilities. Moreover, it can predict a broader range of data and exhibits enhanced handling and adaptability to anomalies. Through the utilization of the attention mechanism, this research partitions the weights of the feature values, precisely dividing the input LSTM's feature values based on their weights. This enables the Bi-LSTM to more accurately capture relationships between different feature values in time series and dependencies on various features. Given the diverse air quality conditions in different regions, the introduced attention mechanism in Bi-LSTM manages the weights of different feature values. The Bi-LSTM, enhanced with attention mechanisms, excels at handling relationships in time series data, allowing it to predict PM2.5 values in more complex air quality environments. It demonstrates improved capabilities in handling anomalies. Even in air quality scenarios with various complex conditions, the model maintains satisfactory predictive quality.
WITHDRAWN: Anti-diabetic and hemolytic activity of Antimicrobial Peptide Parapolybia-MP
Authors: Vanathi Grace , Rajesh RP
Published: December 2023

Parapolybia-MP, an antimicrobial peptide belonging to the family of Mastoparans are cationic tetra decapeptide. This peptide is composed of 14 amino acid residues, (INWKKMAATALKMI) and mostly resides in the venom of the Polistes wasp. It has a molecular weight of 1619.00KDa. Parapolybia-MP was custom-synthesized to test its activity. Parapolybia-MP is a group of mast cell degranulating peptides possessing various activities such as anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and cytolytic properties. They also possess strong anti-diabetic activity and hemolytic activity. This peptide is linear in configuration and modifies itself into a cyclic one upon binding to the plasma membrane of the microbes.
Dynamics of structures with a rotational clutching inertia system considering supplemental friction damping
Authors: Bai Xiaoyu , Liang Qigang , Li Luyu , Ou Jinping
Published: December 2023

The innovative Clutching Inertia System (CIS), has garnered increasing recognition for its effectiveness in mitigating structural vibrations. To enhance the efficiency of passive CIS, introducing suitable energy dissipation mechanisms for the rotational inertia component is imperative. This study delves into the dynamic behavior of CIS, augmented with additional friction damping. Initially, the influence of supplementary friction damping within the CIS framework is examined through a dynamic model of a Single-Degree-of-Freedom (SDOF) system, integrated with the CIS and incorporating the Coulomb friction model. Subsequently, to streamline the dynamic analysis of the CIS and optimize the friction force thereby enhancing control efficiency while minimizing inactive durations, the paper introduces two distinct Equivalent Linearization Methods (ELMs). These methods aid in the linearization of the nonlinear dynamics of the CIS. Furthermore, an assessment of the CIS's dynamic performance, subjected to various external excitations, is presented. The findings highlight the crucial role of supplemental friction damping in reducing the inactivity of CIS and enhancing its overall control effectiveness. The employed ELMs demonstrate commendable accuracy and practicality for both response assessment and CIS performance optimization. In essence, the CIS, when integrated with supplemental friction damping, exhibits superior performance in suppressing structural displacement responses across diverse excitations, particularly in longer-period structures. Conversely, a more pronounced efficacy in managing structural acceleration responses is observed in structures with shorter periods. The study concludes that for specific structural applications, enhancing supplemental friction damping is more advantageous for vibration control than increasing the CIS's inertia.
Crucial effect of interleukin-17/IL-17RC signaling on bio-functions of alveolar type II epithelial cell through Akt and STAT pathways
Authors: jin xiaoer , Huang Fang , pu yufan , wang miao , Xue Chunmeng , liao qingbo , Ding Qi
Published: December 2023

The aim of this study was to explore the role of interleukin (IL)-17/IL-17RC signaling in the function of human alveolar type II epithelial cell-derived cell line of A549 cells. An in vitro LPS-challenged A549 cell model was established to assess the expression of IL-17RC. The effects of IL-17 alone or with LPS in A549 were evaluated by detecting the expression of surfactant protein A (SPA), epithelial sodium channel (ENaC), inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and IL-8. Moreover, IL-17RC neutralizing antibody and STAT inhibitor were employed to explore the mechanism underlying IL-17/IL-17RC signaling influencing on A549 cell biological behavior. IL-17RC was expressed on A549 cells and showed a time and LPS dose dependent manner. IL-17 treatment could exert a synergistic effect with LPS, which could result in significantly elevated expression level of TNF-α and IL-8 and reduced expression level of SPA and ENaC. Activation of phosphorylation Akt and STAT were involved in the process of IL-17/IL-17RC signaling effects on A549 cell biological behavior and inhibition the Akt and STAT pathway with AG490 could reverse the effects exerted by IL-17/IL-17RC signaling. The results demonstrated that IL-17/IL-17RC signaling could modulate the biological function of human alveolar type II epithelial cell-derived A549 cells via promoting TNF-α and IL-8 expression, suppressing SPA and ENaC expression, and through activating Akt and STAT signaling pathway.
Pre-operative Prediction of Histopathological Growth Patterns of Colorectal Cancer Liver Metastasis Using an MRI-based Radiomic Models
Authors: Song Chunlin , Li Wenhui , Cui Jingjing , Miao Qi , Liu Yi , Zhang Zitian , Nie Siru , Zhou Meihong , Chai Ruimei
Published: December 2023

Purpose
Histopathological growth patterns (HGPs) of colorectal liver metastases (CRLMs) have prognostic value. However, the differentiation of HGPs relies on postoperative pathology. This study aimed to develop a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-based radiomic model to predict HGP pre-operatively, following the latest guidelines.
Methods
This retrospective study included 93 chemotherapy-naïve patients with CRLMs who underwent contrast-enhanced liver MRI and partial hepatectomy between 2014 and 2022. Radiomic features were extracted from the tumor zone (RTumor), a 2-mm inner ring (RT−2), a 2-mm outer ring (RT+2), and a combined ring (R2 + 2) on late arterial phase MR images. ANOVA and LASSO algorithms were used for feature selection. Logistic regression with five-fold cross-validation was used for model con-struction. Receiver operating characteristic curves, calibrated curves, and decision curve analyses were used to assess model performance. Delong’s test was used to compare different models.
Results
Twenty-nine desmoplastic and 64 non-desmoplastic CRLMs were included. The radiomic models achieved area under the curve (AUC) values of 0.736, 0.906, 0.804, and 0.794 for RTumor, RT−2, RT+2, and R2 + 2, respectively, in the training cohorts. The AUC values were 0.713, 0.876, 0.785, and 0.777 for RTumor, RT−2, RT+2, and R2 + 2, respectively, in the validation cohort. RT−2 exhibited the best performance.
Conclusion
The MRI-based radiomic models could predict HGPs in CRLMs pre-operatively. The differences between dHGP and non-dHGP are primarily observed near the tumor margins, particularly the internal edges.
Elucidating the Correlation between Leupaxin as a Prognostic Biomarker and Immunotherapeutic Efficacy in Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Teng Fei , Chen Yang , Liao Fei , Wang Yingzhao , Jiang YueQuan , Wang ZhiQiang
Published: December 2023

Background: Oesophageal cancer is a prevalent malignant tumour globally, yet it often receives subpar treatment. Recent interest in immunotherapy has instilled hope for cancer patients. However, further research is necessary to comprehend the mechanisms and roles of effective biomarker in oesophageal squamous carcinoma (ESCC).
Methods: We investigated the expression, pathological and prognostic significance, protein interactions, pathway enrichment, immune microenvironment, correlations between immune regulators and infiltration of immune cells, associations with drug resistance genes, as well as chemosensitivity of leupaxin (LPXN) in ESCC. The relative expression of LPXN mRNA and protein was evaluated in both healthy surrounding tissues and ESCC tissues using quantitative polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry, utilizing samples obtained from clinical cases. Furthermore, we investigated the potential role of LPXN in ESCC through a variety of techniques including cell proliferation assays, apoptosis assays, clonogenic assays, migration assays with or without extracellular matrix support. The co-expression of LPXN and PD-L1 at the protein level in oesophageal squamous cell lines was determined by western blotting. We validated the expression of the LPXN gene in ESCC using clinical samples and investigated the correlation between LPXN gene expression and the efficacy of immune therapy for ESCC.
Results:Bioinformatic analysis revealed a favourable association between LPXN and prognosis in ESCC. LPXN and PD-L1 were found to be co-expressed, with LPXN strongly associated with the immune system, related pathways, microenvironment, regulators, cell infiltration levels, genes related to drug resistance, and chemosensitivity. The expression of LPXN in ESCC at both mRNA and protein levels was confirmed in clinical samples of cancerous and normal tissues. Cell-based experiments demonstrated that knockdown of LPXN resulted in decreased cell viability, invasion, proliferation, and migration in ESCC cell lines. In samples that responded well to therapy, LPXN and PD-L1 were overexpressed at the mRNA and protein levels.
Conclusion: The results of our study have revealed the significance and involvement of the immune-related biomarker LPXN in the proliferation and migration processes of ESCC, thereby establishing a novel framework for the treatment of this disease.
Three-dimensional measurement of the depth of invasion in oral squamous cell carcinoma samples using Lugol’s iodine-enhanced micro-computed tomography
Authors: Yu Jiaxin , Liu Kunyu , Zhang Qian , Pu Yumei , Hu Qingang , Xia Chengwan , Wang Yuxin
Published: December 2023

Purpose
Depth of invasion (DOI) in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) guides treatment and prognosis but lacks three-dimensional (3D) insight. We used Lugol’s iodine-enhanced micro-computed tomography (CT) for 3D analysis.
Methods
Fifteen in vitro OSCC samples from Nanjing Stomatological Hospital (July to December 2022) were micro-CT imaged with a slice thickness of 50 µm following 3% Lugol’s iodine staining for 12 h and then pathologically sectioned and stained. The panoramic diagnostic scanner measured pathological DOI digitally. The micro-CT DOI was measured by evaluating the CT value of the boundary of the tumor lesion and comparison with the pathological examination results. Experienced physicians analyzed both measurements, and a statistical analysis was performed to determine their correlation.
Results
Lugol’s iodine-enhanced micro-CT imaging can clearly distinguish various tissue structures, such as tumor tissue, epithelial tissue, muscle tissue, blood vessel structure, and other major tissue structures in three-dimensional space. This imaging technique can help identify and localize suspicious micro-tumor lesions (1.82 × 1.5 × 1 mm) when used in conjunction with pathological sections. The statistical analysis results indicate a strong correlation between pathological DOI and micro-CT DOI (p < 0.001), with a correlation coefficient of 0.995. During the measurement of DOI information, Lugol’s iodine-enhanced micro-CT imaging effectively compensates for the loss of three-dimensional space information in pathological measurements, thereby improving the accuracy of DOI measurement.
Conclusion
Lugol’s iodine-enhanced micro-CT improves OSCC DOI 3D measurement, enhances pathological staging accuracy, and aids treatment decisions and prognosis.
Detection of Sarcocystis albifronsi, Eimeria alpacae, and Cystoisospora felis in Eurasian Lynx (Lynx Lynx) in Northwestern China
Authors: Cui Nannan , Wang Shiyi , Wang Ziqi , Wang Huiqian , Lu Xiao bo , Liu Gang , Wang Yuanzhi
Published: December 2023

Background
Eurasian lynx (Lynx Lynx) is widely distributed in various habitats in Asia and Europe, and it may harbor multiple pathogens. Currently, the information on protozoan infection in Eurasian lynx is scarce. In this study, we performed nested polymerase chain reaction (nPCR) analysis to detect intestinal protozoan infection in three dead Eurasian lynxes, in northwestern China.
Methods
Three dead Eurasian lynxes, an adult female (#1), an adult male (#2), and a cub male (#3), were sampled in West Junggar Mountain, the northwestern region of Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. The intestine samples were analyzed using nPCR. We used primers targeting the cytochrome C oxidase subunit I gene (COI) for detection of Sarcocystis and Eimeria species and those targeting the small subunit 18S ribosomal RNA gene (18S rRNA) for detection of Cystoisospora species. The nPCR-positive products were sequenced, aligned, and phylogenetically analyzed.
Results
Three intestinal protozoa, Sarcocystis albifronsi, Eimeria alpacae, and Cystoisospora felis, were found in three Eurasian lynxes. The intestine sample of Eurasian lynx #2 was co-infected with S. albifronsi and E. alpacae. In addition, C. felis was only found in the intestine sample of Eurasian lynx #3.
Conclusions
To the best of our knowledge, S. albifronsi and E. alpacae were detected in Eurasian lynx for the first time. In addition, C. felis was detected in Eurasian lynx. These findings extend our knowledge of the geographical distribution and host range of intestinal protozoa.
An analysis of transition-resulted goal scoring patterns in football leagues: a comparison of the first 5 rounds and the last 5 rounds prior midway of the season.
Authors: Eusebio Pedro , Prieto-González Pablo , Marcelino Rui
Published: December 2023

Objective: This study investigated the concept of 'game style' in football, focusing on a team's distinctive approach characterized by tactics, formations, and strategies. The objective is to compare goal-scoring patterns related to "non-offensive transition," "set pieces," "offensive transition," and "positive outcomes" across different league groups.
Methodology: The sample comprises 702 football games, categorized into three league groups: Top Leagues, Marginal Leagues, and Emerging Leagues. A total of 2140 goals were analyzed, classifying them into four types: “No Transitions”, “Set Pieces”, “Offensive Transitions (direct), and “Positive Outcomes” of offensive transitions. The study aims to identify relevant differences between two distinct competitive periods, namely "Rounds 1 to 5" and "Rounds Last 5."
Results: The analysis reveals no significant differences in scoring methods between "Rounds 1 to 5" and "Rounds Last 5" across all variables in the analyzed league groups, except for goals conceded by “No Transition” in the Emerging Leagues. Additionally, results indicate that goals resulting from direct offensive transitions and positive outcomes substantially impact the Top Leagues, constituting 54% of the total scoring.
Conclusion: The study emphasizes the importance of establishing and maintaining consolidated game patterns, as demonstrated by the consistent scoring patterns across different league groups. While most leagues show no variations in scoring methods between early and late rounds, attention to goals conceded by “No Transition” in Emerging Leagues is warranted. The prominence of direct offensive transitions and positive outcomes in Top Leagues highlights the relevance of these strategies in the scoring process, emphasizing the need for teams to focus on developing and implementing effective game patterns.
Regional Variations in Italy’s COVID-19 death toll: An Analysis of Excess Mortality and Associated Factors from 2020 to 2021
Authors: Sanmarchi Francesco , Capodici Angelo , Golinelli Davide , Lenzi Jacopo , Zamparini Manuel , Toth Federico , De Girolamo Giovanni , Stoto Michael A.
Published: December 2023

Background
Italy implemented various measures, including lockdowns and a mass vaccination campaign, to address the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aims to describe the temporal and regional impact of these measures on mortality between March 2020 and December 2021, partitioning the time series into five periods.
Methods
We used National Ministry of Health data on COVID-19 mortality, excess mortality (EM), and vaccine uptake, along with survey data. Avertable mortality was calculated as observed EM minus the lowest EM at the macro-regional level for each study period.
Results
In 2020–21, the estimated total EM was 180,169 deaths, with 76.4% officially attributed to COVID-19. This ranged from 13.5% in the South and Islands (June–October 2020) to 140.0% in the Northeast (March–July 2021). Excess and avertable mortality peaked in the North during the first two periods (March 2020 – February 2021) and in the South and Islands thereafter (March–December 2021). Survey data revealed reduced adherence to stay-at-home orders in the North and lower trust in hospitals and reduced vaccine uptake, especially among the elderly, in the South and Islands. After the initial period, 33,587 excess deaths (18.6%) could have been averted if each macro-region had matched the lowest rates observed post-June 2020. An estimated 40.7% of avertable deaths occurred in Southern and Insular Italy, which constitutes 33.7% of the national population.
Conclusions
Due to differential under-reporting, EM estimates offer a comprehensive view of regional and temporal patterns in COVID-19 mortality. The higher EM in northern Italy during the first year of the pandemic might be linked to lesser adherence to control policies, possibly associated with higher private sector employment. The higher EM in the South and Islands post-March 2021, contributing to 40.7% of avertable EM, could be partly explained by the lower vaccination rates in the population age 80 and older, who experienced the highest age-specific mortality rates and lower trust in the healthcare system in this macro-region.