bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tradeoffs in growth and fuel reduction when using prescribed fire in young mixed conifer stands
Authors: York Robert , Russell Kane Winslow
Published: April 2024

Background

Following high-severity wildfires in conifer forests that rely on wind dispersal for regeneration, reforestation practices are used to hasten the development of large, fire-resistant trees that are better able to persist through the next fire. Planted forests, however, are particularly prone to high-severity wildfire effects for the initial decades following their establishment. This vulnerability suggests the need for surface fuel reduction treatments in the early stages of stand development. Such treatments would be aligned with the disturbance regime of frequent-fire forests and could also hasten the development of multi-aged structures dominated by fireresistant trees. Conventional treatments early in stand development include shrub competition reduction and precommercial thinning, but prescribed fire is typically avoided. To assess the potential for inclusion of prescribed fire in young stand management, we investigated how four different treatments – mastication, mastication plus herbicide, two prescribed burns, and mastication plus two burns – affected individual and stand-level growth versus fuel loads in young mixed-conifer plantations in the north-central Sierra Nevada, California, USA.

Results

Total surface fuel load more than doubled over five years in the mastication only and mastication plus herbicide treatments. Fuel accumulation was avoided in the two treatments that included prescribed fire. Stand growth was similar across the mastication only, mastication plus herbicide, and mastication plus burn treatments. Stand growth was lowest in the burn only treatment. The mastication plus herbicide treatment maximized individual tree growth, especially for white fir and incense-cedar. Individual tree growth was similar among the burn only, mastication only, and mastication plus burn treatments.

Conclusions

Mastication followed by repeated prescribed burning could be a viable management strategy to reduce wildfire hazard without sacrificing growth in young mixed-conifer stands that are entering a vulnerable stage of fire risk. Mastication in combination with herbicide may facilitate the growth of large, fire-resistant trees, but does not address surface fuel buildup. The use of fire alone can effectively reduce fuels, but stand growth may be somewhat low relative to mastication and herbicide. Incorporating prescribed fire is a promising approach for protecting planted stands from high-severity fire while transitioning them into multi-aged structures. Gapbased silvicultural systems that facilitate the development of multi-cohort stands can also use prescribed fire broadly in order to restore heterogeneity and low surface fuel loads.
Predictive Value of Inflammatory Prognostic Index for Contrast-Induced Nephropathy in Patients Undergoing Coronary Angiography and /or Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Jiang Yan , Luo Baolin , Chen Yaqin , Peng Yanchun , Lu Wen , Chen Liangwan , Lin Yanjuan
Published: April 2024

Aims
The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between IPI levels and Contrast-Induced Nephropathy (CIN) risk and postoperative clinical outcomes in patients undergoing coronary angiography (CAG) and/ or percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).
Methods
A total of 3,340 consecutive patients who underwent CAG and/or PCI between May 2017 and December 2022 were enrolled in this study. Based on their baseline IPI levels, patients were categorized into four groups. Clinical characteristics and postoperative outcomes were compared among these groups. In-hospital outcomes focused on CIN risk, repeated revascularization, major bleeding, and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), while the long-term outcome examined the all-cause readmission rate.
Results
Quartile analysis found a significant link between IPI levels and CIN risk, notably in the highest quartile (p < 0.001). Even after adjusting for baseline factors, this association remained significant, with an adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR) of 2.33 (95%CI 1.50–3.64; p = 0.001). Notably, baseline IPI level emerged as an independent predictor of severe arrhythmia, with aOR of 0.50 (95%CI 0.35–0.69; p < 0.001), particularly driven by the highest quartile. Furthermore, a significant correlation between IPI and acute myocardial infarction was observed (p < 0.001), which remained significant post-adjustment.
Conclusions
For patients undergoing CAG and/or PCI, baseline IPI levels can independently predict clinical prognosis. As a comprehensive inflammation indicator, IPI effectively identifies high-risk patients post-procedure. This study underscores IPI's potential to assist medical professionals in making more precise clinical decisions, ultimately reducing mortality and readmission rates linked to cardiovascular disease (CVD).
Reversal of stress- or chemotherapy-induced immunosuppression by socheongryong-tang aqueous extract
Authors: Jeon Youngsic , Ko Hyeonseok , Woo Dong-Young , Kim Taejung , Kang Ki Sung , Kim Su Nam , Kim Young-Joo
Published: April 2024

Socheongryong-tang (SCRT) has been recognized as a traditional medication for managing chills and fever in East Asian countries, including Korea, China, and Japan. This study aimed to elucidate the novel biological activity and mode of action underlying the immunity-boosting effects of SCRT in murine macrophages. Our findings demonstrate that SCRT significantly enhances phagocytic activity, productions of nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), and mRNA expression of cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), and interleukin-6 (IL-6). These effects are attributed to the activation of the reactive oxygen species (ROS)/mitogen activated protein kinases (MAPKs)/nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling axis. Importantly, SCRT maintains its immunomodulatory effects even under stressful conditions induced by hydrocortisone (HCOR) treatment or chemotherapy with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). This resilience against stress or chemotherapy-induced immunosuppression underscores the potential of SCRT aqueous extract as a promising therapeutic agent for mitigating immunosuppression associated with stress or chemotherapy.
Priming Grapevines through Oregano Essential Oil Vapour Results in a Metabolomic Shift Eliciting Resistance against downy mildew
Authors: Fandino Ana Cecilia Aliaga , Vigneron Nicolas , Alfonso Esteban , Burdet Jean-Philippe , Remolif Eric , Cattani Amanda Malvessi , Smit-Sadki Tara , Cluzet Stéphanie , Valls Josep , Pétriacq Pierre , Rienth Markus
Published: April 2024

Defence priming of plants with natural products is extensively studied in the agricultural field to reduce the use of synthetic and copper-based pesticides. Previous studies have shown that Oregano essential oil vapour (OEOV) is an effective priming agent against downy mildew (DM) in grapevine (Vitis vinifera L. cv. Chasselas), activating different transcriptomic regulated defence mechanisms. In the present study, we complement transcriptomic data with metabolomic insights, confirming some previous regulating patterns and highlighting new mechanisms underlying OEOV-induced resistance. A significant modulation of the phenylpropanoid pathway was noted. The data also confirmed the induction of an oxidative stress response indicated by an up-regulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS)-related genes and a congruent depletion of putative L-glutathione. Interestingly, OEOV promoted the accumulation of organic metabolites such as terpenes and other potential phytoalexins, which could potentially contribute to grapevine innate immune response to Plasmopara viticola. Overall, this study uncovered a diverse influence of OEOV on V. vinifera defence mechanisms against DM, enhancing our comprehension of the mode of action of essential oils. This insight offers various prospects for crafting innovative biocontrol products, fostering a more dynamic and sustainable approach to agriculture.
Validity of rapid urease test using swab of gastric mucus to mucosal forceps and 13C-urease breath test: a multicenter prospective observational study
Authors: Yoshikawa Takaaki , Yamauchi Atsushi , Kou Tadayuki , Murao Takahisa , Kamada Tomoari , Suehiro Mitsuhiko , Kawano Koichiro , Haruma Ken , Yazumi Shujiro
Published: April 2024

Background: Theoretically, a rapid urease test (RUT) using a swab of the gastric wall (Swab-RUT) for Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is safe. However, the validity and utility of Swab-RUT remain unclear. Therefore, we assessed the validity and utility of Swab-RUT compared to RUT using mucosal forceps of the gastric wall (Forceps-RUT) and 13C-urease breath test (UBT).
Methods: This study was a multicenter prospective observational study. When the examinees were suspected of H. pylori infection during esophagogastroduodenoscopy, we performed Swab-RUT and Forceps-RUT continuously. When the examinees were not suspected of H. pylori infection, we performed Swab-RUT alone. We validated the status of H. pylori infection using UBT.
Results: Ninety-four examinees were enrolled from four institutions between May 2016 and December 2020 (median age [range], 56.5 [26–88] years). In this study, the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of Swab-RUT to UBT were 0.933 (95% confidence interval: 0.779–0.992), 0.922 (0.827–0.974), and 0.926 (0.853–0.970), respectively. The Kappa coefficient of Swab-RUT to UBT was 0.833, and that of Swab-RUT to forceps-RUT was 0.936. No complications were observed in this study.
Conclusion: Swab-RUT is a valid examination for the status of H. pylori infection compared to the conventional Forceps-RUT.
Flood risk mitigation in small catchments using an early-warning system based on machine learning models
Authors: Luppichini Marco , Vailati Giada , Fontana Lorenzo , Bini Monica
Published: April 2024

In consideration of ongoing climate changes, it has been necessary to provide new tools capable of mitigating hydrogeological risks. These effects will be more marked in small catchments, where the geological and environmental contexts do not require long warning times to implement risk mitigation measures. In this context, deep learning models can be an effective tool for local authorities to have solid forecasts of outflows and to make correct choices during the alarm phase. However, in small river basins, model uncertainty appears to play an important role. In this study, we address this issue by providing machine learning models able to estimate uncertainty on the basis of the observed hydrometric height. Once the deep learning models have been trained, their application is purely objective and very rapid, permitting the development of simple software that can be used even by lower skilled individuals.
GMP Production of [18F]FE-PE2I on a TRACERLab FX2 N synthesis module, a Radiotracer for in vivo PET Imaging of the Dopamine Transport
Authors: Ferrat Melodie , Moein Mohammad Mahdi , Cananau Carmen , Tegnebratt Tetyana , Saliba Paul , Norman Fredrik , Steiger Carsten , Bratteby Klas , Samén Erik , Dahl Kenneth , Tran Thuy A.
Published: April 2024

Background
Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that is characterized by a degeneration of the dopaminergic system. Dopamine transporter (DAT) positron emission tomography (PET) imaging has emerged as a powerful and non-invasive method to quantify dopaminergic function in the living brain. The PET radioligand, [18F]FE-PE2I, a cocaine chemical derivative, has shown promising properties for in vivo PET imaging of DAT, including high affinity and selectivity for DAT, excellent brain permeability, and favorable metabolism. The aim of the current study was to scale up the production of [18F]FE-PE2I to fulfil the increasing clinical demand for this tracer.
Results
Thus, a fully automated and GMP-compliant production procedure has been developed using a commercially available radiosynthesis module GE TRACERLab FX2 N. [18F]FE-PE2I was produced with a radiochemical yield of 39 ± 8% (n = 4, relative [18F]F− delivered to the module). The synthesis time was 70 minutes, and the molar activity was 925.3 ± 763 GBq/µmol (250 ± 20 Ci/µmol). The produced [18F]FE-PE2I was stable over 6 hours at room temperature.
Conclusion
The protocol reliably provides a sterile and pyrogen–free GMP-compliant product.
Children and adolescents at risk for seclusion and restraint in inpatient psychiatric treatment: a case control study
Authors: Czernin Klara , Bründlmayer Anselm , Oster Anna , Baumgartner Josef S. , Plener Paul L.
Published: April 2024

Background: To reduce coercion in acute inpatient child and adolescent psychiatric units, a better understanding of individuals at risk for seclusion and/or restraint (S/R) is needed. We report data on the proportion of patients secluded/restrained and factors associated with higher risk of S/R.
Methods: A case-control study included all admissions (n=782) to a department of child and adolescent psychiatry within 36 months between 2019 and 2022. Data on age, gender, out of home care, primary and comorbid ICD-10 diagnoses, length of stay, prior/multiple admissions were compared between admissions with and without S/R using chi square tests for categorical and t-tests for continuous variables. Uni- and multivariate binary logistic regression models were computed.
Results: The overall proportion of S/R was 12.8% (n=100). Females (p=.001), patients in out of home care (p<.001), with prior admission (p<.001), Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD; p<.001) and Borderline personality disorder (BPD; p<.001) were at a significantly higher risk of S/R. Length of stay in days (OR 1.01), out of home care (OR 3.85), PTSD (OR 6.20), BPD (OR 15.17), Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)/conduct disorder (OR 4.29), and manic episode/bipolar disorder (OR 36.41) were significantly associated with S/R in multivariate regression.
Conclusions: Child and adolescent psychiatric staff should consider risk factors when using coercive measures. Patients with PTSD and/or BPD are the most vulnerable subgroup. Clinical practice needs to be adapted in order to prevent the use of S/R and its potential hazards.
Investigation of the Effects of an 8-Week Cross-Country Skiing Exercise Program on Various Reaction Time Parameters, Selective Attention and Academic Achievement in Adolescents
Authors: ÇAĞIN Musab , POLAT Sezen ÇİMEN , SAROL Halil , RAMOS Amador GARCÍA , ÇEVİKER Abdulkerim
Published: April 2024

Exercise slows or helps reverse the shrinkage of key cognitive brain regions such as the hippocampus, which is important for information processing, learning, reasoning and planning. For this reason, it is thought that regular exercise of individuals, especially during adolescence, which is considered one of the most important processes of development, can increase their performance in areas where cognitive activities are at the forefront. Cross-country skiing, one of the leading branches of winter sports, has a much more complex structure, unlike the branches that are widely preferred today (football, basketball, volleyball, etc.) and is a branch where many motor skills are exhibited at the same time. For this reason, the effects of cross-country skiing, which is defined as more complex and difficult than other branches, on cognitive activities are a matter of curiosity. In this context, the aim of the research is; The aim of this study is to examine the effects of 8-week cross-country skiing exercise on various reaction time parameters, selective attention and academic achievement in adolescent individuals. The study involved 54 adolescents who had no prior experience in any licensed sports. The participants were divided in experimental and control groups. Reaction performances were determined using the ÇAĞIN Hand and Foot Reaction Tests, selective attention performances were evaluated using the Flanker Test and academic achievement was determined using the e-Okul system. Two-way ANOVA revealed significant group × time interactions for hand and foot simple, selective, discriminative reaction time, selective attention and academic achievement (p<0.05) due to improved values at post-test for the experimental group but not for the control groups. No significant group × time interactions were observed for correct reaction rate for all reaction parameters (p>0.05). The study concludes that the cross-country skiing exercise, which was applied to adolescents for eight weeks, had a positive impact on the parameters of reaction, selective attention and academic achievement. Therefore, parents are suggested to encourage their children to exercise and engage in sports practices like cross-country skiing to improve cognitive and academic performance during adolescence.
TREM2 Recognition of Candidalysin Orchestrates Mucosal Immunity in Oropharyngeal Candidiasis
Authors: Deng Weiwei , Chen Yishan , Liu Siqi , Lin Kefan , Zhang Kai , Wang Di , Yu Zhiying , Zhao Weijia , Xu Yingping , Wang Xiaowen , Yang Bin , Li Ruoyu , Liang Yunsheng
Published: April 2024

The landscape of oral mucosal immunity, particularly in the context of oropharyngeal candidiasis (OPC), remains largely uncharted. By employing single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) on murine models of OPC, we have illuminated the immune dynamics within this niche. We discovered a new subpopulation: TREM2-expressing macrophages, intrinsic to the oral mucosa, which infiltrated in response to Candida albicans (C. albicans) infection. However, these macrophages were significantly depleted under cortisone acetate (CA)-induced immunosuppression. This study unveiled the pattern recognition receptor (PRR) characteristics of TREM2 during OPC, where TREM2 demonstrated the ability to directly recognize candidalysin at positions G65, N73, and N91-K92, inducing downstream inflammatory signaling regulation of TNF-α, which orchestrated macrophage and neutrophil responses and influenced Th17 cell differentiation. As a result, the absence of TREM2 increases the susceptibility of mice to OPC. Conversely, administering TREM2 agonists has been shown to facilitate the clearance of OPC induced by CA in mice. Therefore, our findings expand the understanding of TREM2 beyond its known association with neurodegenerative diseases and metabolic disorders, positioning it as a key receptor in bridging the host-fungus immune interface, and providing novel therapeutic insights for glucocorticoid-induced OPC.
Tunisian Artemisia campestris L.: A Potential Therapeutic Agent against Myeloma - Phytochemical and Pharmacological Insights
Authors: Limam Inès , Ghali Ridha , Abdelkarim Mohamed , Ouni Anis , Araoud Manel , Abdelkarim Mouaadh , Hedhili Abderrazek , Fennira Fatma Ben-Aissa
Published: April 2024

Background
Artemisia campestris L. (AC) leaves are widely recognized for their importance in traditional medicine. Despite the considerable amount of research conducted on this plant overworld, the chemical composition and the biological activity of the leaves grown in Tunisia remains poorly investigated. In this study of AC, various solvent-based extraction methods were employed (hexane, ethyl acetate and methanol) to investigate its bioactive constituents by LC-MS analysis, and their antioxidant, antimicrobial, antifungal and anticancer activities.
Results
Data analysis revealed diverse compound profiles in AC extracts. Methanolic and ethyl acetate extracts exhibited higher polyphenolic content and antioxidant activities, while Hexane showed superior phytosterol extraction. Ethyl acetate extract displayed potent antimicrobial activity against multi-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Additionally, all extracts demonstrated, for the first time, robust antifungal efficacy against Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus niger. Cytotoxicity assays revealed the significant impact of methanolic and ethyl acetate extracts on metastatic breast cancer and multiple myeloma, examined for the first time in our study. Moreover, further analysis on multiple myeloma cells highlighted that the ethyl acetate extract induced apoptotic and necrotic cell death and resulted in an S phase cell cycle blockage, underscoring its therapeutic potential.
Conclusions
This investigation uncovers novel findings in AC, notably the identification of lupeol, oleanolic acid, ursolic acid, stigmasterol and β-sitosterol, previously unreported. The study sheds light on the promising role of AC extracts in therapeutic interventions and underscores the need for continued research to harness its full potential in medicine and pharmaceutical development.
Evaluating Guideline and Registration Policies Among Neurology Journals: A Cross-Sectional Analysis.
Authors: Tran Andrew V. , Stadler John K. , Ernst Zachary , Smith Caleb A. , Nees Danya , Hughes Griffin K. , Vassar Matt
Published: April 2024

Background
Neurological disorders have had a substantial rise the last three decades, imposing substantial burdens on both patients and healthcare costs. Consequently, the demand for high-quality research has become crucial for exploring effective treatment options. However, current neurology research has some limitations in terms of transparency, reproducibility, and reporting bias. The adoption of reporting guidelines (RGs) and trial registration policies has been proven to address these issues and improve research quality in other medical disciplines. It is unclear the extent to which these policies are being endorsed by neurology journals. Therefore, our study aims to evaluate the publishing policies of top neurology journals regarding RGs and trial registration.
Methods
For this cross-sectional study, neurology journals were identified using the 2021 Scopus CiteScore Tool. The top 100 journals were listed and screened for eligibility for our study. In a masked, duplicate fashion, investigators extracted data on journal characteristics, policies on RGs, and policies on trial registration using information from each journal’s Instruction for Authors webpage. Additionally, investigators contacted journal editors to ensure information was current and accurate. No human participants were involved in this study. Our data collection and analyses were performed from December 14, 2022, to January 9, 2023.
Results
Of the 356 neurology journals identified, the top 100 were included into our sample. The five-year impact of these journals ranged from 50.844 to 2.226 (mean [SD], 7.82 [7.01]). Twenty-five (25.0%) journals did not require or recommend a single RG within their Instructions for Authors webpage, and a third (33.0%) did not require or recommend clinical trial registration. The most frequently mentioned RGs were CONSORT (64.6%), PRISMA (52.5%), and ARRIVE (53.1%). The least mentioned RG was QUOROM (1.0%), followed by MOOSE (9.0%), and SQUIRE (17.9%).
Conclusions
While many top neurology journals endorse the use of RGs and trial registries, there are still areas where their adoption can be improved. Addressing these shortcomings leads to further advancements in the field of neurology, resulting in higher-quality research and better outcomes for patients.
On the randomized multiple row-action methods for solving linear least-squares problems
Authors: Wu Nian-Ci , Liu Chengzhi , Wang Yatian , Zuo Qian
Published: April 2024

The randomized row-action method is a popular representative of the iterative algorithm because of its efficiency in solving the overdetermined and consistent systems of linear equations. In this paper, we present an extended randomized multiple row-action method to solve a given overdetermined and inconsistent linear system and analyze its computational complexities at each iteration. We prove that the proposed method can linearly converge in the mean square to the least-squares solution with a minimum Euclidean norm. Several numerical studies are presented to corroborate our theoretical findings. The real-world applications, such as image reconstruction and large noisy data fitting in computer-aided geometric design, are also presented for illustration purposes.
AMS subject classifications: 65F10, 65F20, 65F25, 65D10, 68W20
The effects of mobile phone addiction on bedtime procrastination in university students: the masking effect of physical activity and anxiety
Authors: Meng Shuqiao , Zhang Yu , Tong Wenxia , Ge Xiaoyu , Tang Lingling , Zhang Meng , Tang Wenjing , Onyebuchi Nzubechi , Han Yahui , Han Shanshan , Li Bo
Published: April 2024

Purpose
Good sleep is one of the necessary conditions to ensure the normal performance of the physiological and psychological functions of college students. This study aimed to explore the relationship between mobile phone addiction and bedtime procrastination among Chinese college students and the mediating mechanisms of physical exercise and anxiety between the two, with a view to seek ways to prevent and intervene in college students' sleep procrastination and improve their sleep quality.
Methods
Using SPSS 29.0 analysis with Bootstrap's method, 3,800 first-year students, sophomores, and juniors were given the Mobile Phone Addiction Tendency Scale, Bedtime Procrastination Scale, Physical Activity Scale, and Anxiety Scale. The results of the analyses included mediation tests and effect analyses of anxiety and physical activity.
Results
(1)The correlation analysis revealed significant positive correlations between mobile phone addiction and bedtime procrastination (r = 0.149, p < 0.01) as well as anxiety (r = 0.497, p < 0.01). Additionally, there was a significant negative correlation between mobile phone addiction and physical activity (r = -0.447, p < 0.01). Physical activity was also found to have significant negative correlations with anxiety (r = -0.506, p < 0.01) and bedtime procrastination (r = -0.424, p < 0.01). Furthermore, anxiety showed a significant positive correlation with bedtime procrastination (r = 0.334, p < 0.01). (2) Physical activity and anxiety acted as substantial mediators between mobile phone addiction and nighttime procrastination. Both mediators had considerable masking effects, with the mediating effect amounting to 50.3% and 25.1%, respectively. (3) Physical exercise and anxiety played a chain mediating role between mobile phone addiction and bedtime procrastination, and the masking effect was also significant, with a mediating effect size of 13.4%.
Conclusions
This study reveals the special characteristics of the influencing factors and pathways of bedtime procrastination in this group of college students, providing targeted evidence for the prevention and intervention of bedtime procrastination in college students. It also has an important reference value for the effects of exercise and comprehensive intervention to improve bedtime procrastination and enhance the quality of sleep in college students.
Reaction Rebalancing: A Novel Approach to Curating Reaction Databases
Authors: Phan Tieu-Long , Weinbauer Klaus , Gärtner Thomas , Merkle Daniel , Andersen Jakob L. , Fagerberg Rolf , Stadler Peter F.
Published: April 2024

Purpose: Reaction databases are a key resource for a wide variety of applications in computational chemistry and biochemistry, including Computer-aided Synthesis Planning (CASP) and the large-scale analysis of metabolic networks. The full potential of these resources can only be realized if datasets are accurate and complete. Missing co-reactants and co-products, i.e., unbalanced reactions, however, are the rule rather than the exception. The curation and correction of such incomplete entries is thus an urgent need.
Methods: The SynRBL framework addresses this issue with a dual-strategy: a rule-based method for non-carbon compounds, using atomic symbols and counts for prediction, alongside a Maximum Common Subgraph (MCS)-based technique for carbon compounds, aimed at aligning reactants and products to infer missing entities.
Results: The rule-based method exceeded 99% accuracy, while MCS-based accuracy varied from 81.19% to 99.33%, depending on reaction properties. Furthermore, an applicability domain and a machine learning scoring function were devised to quantify prediction confidence. The overall efficacy of this framework was delineated through its success rate and accuracy metrics, which spanned from 89.83% to 99.75% and 90.85% to 99.05%, respectively.
Conclusion: The SynRBL framework offers a novel solution for recalibrating51chemical reactions, significantly enhancing reaction completeness. With rigorous validation, it achieved groundbreaking accuracy in reaction rebalancing. This sets the stage for future improvement in particular of atom-atom mapping techniques as well as of downstream tasks such as automated synthesis planning.
Relationship between risk of locomotive syndrome and low back pain in Japanese postpartum women: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Kajiwara Yuu , Matsumoto Daisuke , Inoue-Hirakawa Tomoe , Kawabe Rika , Nagai-Tanima Momoko , Aoyama Tomoki
Published: April 2024

Background
Pregnancy and childbirth lead to various physiological and anatomical changes, often resulting in low back pain and decline in physical activity in postpartum women. Locomotive syndrome is reportedly associated with low back pain and physical activity levels. However, the prevalence of locomotive syndrome and related factors in postpartum women have not been thoroughly investigated. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the relationship between locomotive syndrome risk and low back pain and physical activity in postpartum women.
Methods
In this cross-sectional study, we included 86 women (30.0 ± 4.2 years) within 1 year postpartum. We assessed the locomotive syndrome risk using the stand-up test and 2-step test, physical activity using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short Form, and low back pain using the Oswestry Disability Index. The Oswestry Disability Index score and physical activity levels were compared between groups with and without the risk of locomotive syndrome.
Results
Overall, 45 women (52.3%) had a high risk of locomotive syndrome. The high-risk locomotive syndrome group had significantly higher Oswestry Disability Index [10 (0–26)] than the non-locomotive syndrome group [4 (0–24)] (p < 0.001). However, no significant difference was observed between the two groups in terms of age, number of births, or proportion of women with low physical activity levels.
Conclusions
The findings suggest that more than half of the women within 1 year after childbirth were at risk of locomotive syndrome, suggesting a relationship between locomotive syndrome and low back pain. Prevention of postnatal low back pain may necessitate addressing decline in prenatal motor function. The findings underscore the importance of early identification and intervention for locomotive syndrome risk in postpartum women to prevent future low back pain and improve mobility.
Pan-genome Analysis of GT64 Gene Family and Expression Response to Verticillium wilt in Cotton
Authors: Zhao Zengqiang , Zhu Zongcai , Jiao Yang , Zhang Guoli
Published: April 2024

Background
The GT64 subfamily, belonging to the glycosyltransferase enzyme family, plays a critical function in plant adaptation to stress conditions and the modulation of plant growth, development, and organogenesis processes. However, a comprehensive identification and systematic analysis of GT64 in cotton are still lacking.
Results
This study used bioinformatics techniques to conduct a detailed investigation on the GT64 gene family members of eight cotton species for the first time. A total of 39 GT64 genes were detected, which could be classified into five subfamilies according to the phylogenetic tree. Among them, six genes were found in upland cotton. Furthermore, we investigated the precise chromosomal positions of these genes and visually represented their gene structure details. Moreover, we forecasted cis-regulatory elements in GHGT64s and ascertained the duplication type of the GT64 in the eight cotton species. Evaluation of the Ka/Ks ratio for similar gene pairs among the eight cotton species provided insights into the selective pressures acting on these homologous genes. Additionally, we analyzed the expression profiles of the GT64 gene family. Through overexpression of GHGT64_4 in tobacco, overexpression of this gene in tobacco could improve disease resistance of tobacco. Subsequently, VIGS experiments conducted in cotton demonstrated reduced disease resistance upon silencing of the GHGT64_4, suggesting its involvement in affecting lignin and jasmonic acid biosynthesis pathways, thus impacting cotton resistance. Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) revealed an early immune response against Verticillium dahliae in G. barbadense compared to G. hirsutum. qRT-PCR analysis indicated that some GT64 genes might play a role under various biotic and abiotic stress conditions. Subcellular localization results showed that GHGT64_4 is mainly located in the endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus.
Conclusions
These discoveries enhance our knowledge of GT64 family members and lay the groundwork for future investigations into the disease resistance mechanisms of this gene in cotton.
Development of a Nomogram for Diagnosing Malignant Biliary Strictures: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Xia Peichen , Yin Minhao , Han Xu , Zhu Hong
Published: April 2024

Background
Diagnosing biliary strictures is a significant clinical challenge. Currently, there is no reliable clinical evaluation system to guide diagnosis and treatment.
Aims
The aim of this study was to investigate the potential risk factors associated with malignant biliary strictures (MBS) and to develop a nomogram for assessing the malignancy of biliary strictures.
Methods
Patients with biliary strictures admitted to the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University were included and the medical records of them were analyzed to identify independent risk factors associated with MBS through least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) and logistic analysis. Subsequently, a nomogram was established to aid clinical diagnosis.
Results
The study comprised 602 patients, with 290 patients classified as benign and 312 as malignant. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that symptoms of fever, CA19-9, presence or history of choledocholithiasis, imaging findings of malignancy, and ERCP results indicative of malignancy were identified as independent predictors of MBS, and the AUC value of the nomogram was 0.917 in the training set and 0.897 in the validation set.
Conclusions
The study identified several independent predictors for determining MBS and constructed a nomogram to assist in the diagnosis of biliary strictures. When the total point of the nomogram was greater than 128.0, the patient was considered to have a high likelihood of MBS.
Staging of improbability inside hydrograph investigation of river sink of partially scorched hilly section
Authors: Patil Rajvardhan Shrikant , Bharadiya Nitin Nathalal
Published: April 2024

SWAT requires daily precipitation. In simulation 18 precipitation files have been used. On a daily basis rainfall statistics is exercised, in order to model the surface runoff SCS curve quantity method is implemented. This paper, focused on the blow of atmosphere transform lying on hydrographs. Beginning from year 2003 to 2022 hydrographs have been drawn, and analysis has been carried out. We found interesting results as; due to melting of glaciers in the Amu Darya River basin has a tremendous impact on hydrograph. A model has been prepared and Hydrograph analysis has been carried out. Due to variations in the Hydrograph, we can study the change in the collection of discharge through the catchment area also we can study the variations in the stream flow. From hydrograph analysis and disparity, people living in nearby areas are suffering from water scarcity. Farmers are suffering due to uncertainty in the collection of water and changes in climatic conditions. Industries are not able to draw a sufficient amount of water for production. A detailed study of hydrograph and its impact on society has been broadly mentioned. This article mainly emphasizes on application of SWAT modeling of hydrological processes in changing environment.
Increased Serum MMP-9 in Long-COVID May Reflect Activation of Microglia by SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein
Authors: Kempuraj Duraisamy , Tsilioni Irene , Aenlle Kristina K. , Klimas Nancy G. , Theoharides Theoharis C.
Published: April 2024

Long-COVID is a major health concern because many patients develop chronic neuropsychiatric symptoms, but the precise pathogenesis is unknown. Matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) can disrupt neuronal connectivity and was elevated in patients with COVID-19. MMP-9 was measured in the serum of long COVID patients and healthy controls, as well as in the supernatant fluid of cultured human SV-40 microglia, by commercial ELISA. Results were analyzed with one-way ANOVA. MMP-9 in the serum of Long-COVID patients and supernatant fluid from cultured human microglia stimulated by recombinant SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein was assayed by ELISA. MMP-9 was significantly elevated in the serum of Long-COVID patients compared to healthy controls. Moreover, cultured human microglia released MMP-9 when stimulated by Spike protein. In conclusion, MMP-9 may contribute to the development of Long-COVID and serve both as a prognostic biomarker and as target for treatment.
Gut microbiota, human blood metabolites and esophageal cancer: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: LI Xiuzhi , Xu Bingchen , Yang Han , Zhu Zhihua
Published: April 2024

Background:Unbalances in the gut microbiota have been proposed as a possible cause of esophageal cancer, yet the exact causal relationship remains unclear.Objectives:To investigate the potential causal relationship between the gut microbiota and esophageal cancer with Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis.Methods:Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) of 207 gut microbial taxa (5 phyla, 10 classes, 13 orders, 26 families, 48 genera, and 105 species) and 205 gut microbiota metabolic pathways conducted by the Dutch Microbiome Project (DMP) and a FinnGen cohort GWASs of esophageal specified the summary statistics. To investigate the possibility of a mediation effect between the gut microbiota and esophageal cancer, mediation MR analyses were performed for 1,091 blood metabolites and 309 metabolite ratios.Results:MR analysis indicated that the relative abundance of 10 gut microbial taxa was associated with esophageal cancer but all the 12 gut microbiota metabolic pathways with esophageal cancer indicated no statistically significant association existing. Two blood metabolites and a metabolite ratio were discovered to be mediating factors in the pathway from gut microbiota to esophageal cancer.Conclusion:This research indicated the potential mediating effects of blood metabolites and offered genetic evidence in favor of a causal correlation between gut microbiota and esophageal cancer.
Using glycerol-inducible expression system to overexpressed maltooligosaccharide-forming α-amylase in Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Li Xiangyi , Yang Jianghua , Li Yonglu , Yan Xu , Pan Shiyou , Du Liqin , Wei Yutuo
Published: April 2024

In order to meet the desire of maltopentaose (G5) in industrial application, we developed a glycerol-inducible expression system in Bacillus subtilis to overexpress maltooligosaccharide-forming α-amylase from Bacillus cereus ATCC 14579 (BcMFAse). Verifying the glycerol-inducible promoter, optimizing fermentation conditions, comparing homologous promoter and constructing double translation initiation sites were studied. Results shown that the optimal induced time for glycerol-inducible promoter is at 8 h, the optimal induced concentration of glycerol is 1% and the optimized fermentation medium was consisted of 2% tryptone, 0.6% yeast exact, 1% NaCl and 0.6% casein hydrolysate with highest BcMFAse activity (~1549.9 U/mL) promoted by PGlpD in 500 mL triangular flask. Comparing to the homologous promoter, PGlpDL from Bacillus paralicheniformis A4-3 exhibited stronger ability to promoted the expression of BcMFAse and the maximum BcMFAse activity was ~2364.6 U/mL. The BcMFAse activity achieved ~3137.5 U/mL by constructing double translation initiation sites (TISs) at 5´-untranslated region(5´-UTR) of promoter PGlpDL. This study provided a high-efficiency way for overexpressing the BcMFAse in B. subtilis, which would economically producing G5 on industry.
Marshall-Olkin Cosine Topp-Leone Family of Distributions with Application to Real-life Datasets
Authors: Osi Abdulhameed , Doguwa Sani , Yahaya Abubakar , Zakari Yahaya , Usman Abubakar
Published: April 2024

The Marshall-Olkin (MO) family of distributions is a flexible framework that is adept at modeling complex dependence structures and tail behaviors in a variety of real-life datasets. This paper introduces a new member of the MO family called the Marshall-Olkin Cosine Topp-Leone G family. We derive several mathematical properties of this family, including the moment, moment generating function, Renyi's entropy, and the distribution of order statistics. We also provide some special cases of this class. To estimate the model parameters, we use the method of maximum likelihood. We explore the performance of this method through simulation studies, which show that biases and root-mean-square errors decrease as the sample size increases. To demonstrate the usefulness of our model, we apply it to two real-world datasets. Our findings show that, in comparison with existing distributions, our model provides the best fit for these data.
Minimally invasive posterior fossa decompression in Chiari malformation type I with and without syringomyelia
Authors: zhang Lei , chen Hongfu , zhang Hui , Ji Peizhi
Published: April 2024

Background: At present, there is no consensus on the selection of surgical methods for Chiari malformation type I (CM-I). The extent of decompressive craniectomy, whether subarachnoid exploration is necessary, and whether the hernia tonsils are excised are still controversial. In this study, we put forward our views on these controversial issues. Compared with previous literature, the application of our surgical technique in the treatment of CM-I has better effect and fewer surgical complications.
Methods: From September 2019 to December 2022, the clinical data of 22 patients with CM-I who underwent minimally invasive posterior fossa decompression (PFD) were retrospectively analyzed.
Results: After 4-33 months follow-up, the improvement rate of symptoms and signs were 86%, Chicago Chiari Outcome Scale (CCOC) was an average rating of 14.2. Postoperative cervical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed that syringomyelia were relieved in all cases. The incidence of postoperative complications was 9% (1 case of cerebrospinal fluid leakage and 1 case of subcutaneous effusion).
Conclusions: Minimally invasive posterior fossa decompression is effective in the treatment of Chiari malformation type I with low complication rate.
Comparative analysis of pursestring method versus conventional methods for stoma closure
Authors: Huseynov Amil , Vural Veli
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Stoma surgery, crucial for conditions like Crohn's disease and colorectal cancers, requires effective closure techniques. This study compares the pursestring method to conventional closure methods, focusing on postoperative outcomes and complications.
Methods: The study involved a systematic comparison between the pursestring and traditional linear suturing techniques in stoma closure. Patient selection was based on specific criteria, ensuring a representative sample. Variables such as surgical time, complication rates, and recovery periods were meticulously recorded and analyzed.
Results: The analysis revealed that patients undergoing the pursestring method experienced significantly lower infection rates and quicker healing times. This method, employing a circular suture pattern, proved more effective in minimizing postoperative complications compared to conventional methods.
Conclusion: The pursestring method demonstrates a notable advantage over traditional techniques in stoma closure. Its benefits in reducing infection rates and promoting faster recovery highlight its potential as a preferred method in surgical practice. The study advocates for its broader adoption in clinical settings, considering its positive impact on patient outcomes.
Novel DNA damage repair signature for immunotherapy and a proposed molecular subtyping scheme in gastric cancer
Authors: Li Xing , Wang Chen , Dong Haifeng , Chen Jingyao , Chen Songyao , Li Mingzhe , Chen Hengxing , Deng Cuncan , Zhang Changhua
Published: April 2024

The DNA damage repair (DDR) mechanisms is closely related to the occurrence and progression of cancer cells. The diversity and complexity of DNA repair mechanisms also affect the tumor immune microenvironment. In this study, we analyzed gastric cancer gene-related data to select 19 DDR genes associated with prognosis.Through LASSO and multivariate Cox regression analysis, we obtained a prognostic model for gastric cancer based on two genes (CHAF1A, PER1) and validated it by qPCR with 30 pairs of GC samples. Moreover, small-molecule compounds targeting the antitumor effects of predictive genes were identified through molecular docking. Based on this model, we compared the immune characteristics of the two groups of patients and the differences in tumor immune microenvironment (TME), and further predicted the outcome and prognosis of immunotherapy. Additionally, we used consensus clustering and k-means methods to further identify molecular subtypes of patients, and compared the immune characteristics of the two DDR subtypes and predicted the drug sensitivity of the two subtypes of patients to standard clinical chemotherapy drugs.
Effectiveness of Bilateral Varicocelectomy on Male Infertility; a Case Series Study in Southern Iran
Authors: Eslahi Ali , Omidbakhsh Kian
Published: April 2024

Background and Objective: Varicocele is a common cause of male infertility. The impact of varicocele treatment on fertility has been a topic of debate. Bilateral varicocele has been identified as a significant factor in infertility, offering hope for positive treatment results. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of bilateral varicocelectomy on male infertility.
Methods: A prospective study was conducted from January 2020 to January 2023, involving infertile men with varicocele. Varicocele diagnosis was performed using Color Doppler ultrasonography, and the contralateral maximum vein diameter was measured using an intraoperative Doppler device. Sperm parameters were assessed 6 months post-surgery, with fertility outcomes evaluated 12 months post-surgery.
Results: A total of 180 patients participated in the study. Among them, 55 individuals (30.55%) had unilateral varicocele, while 125 cases (69.44%) presented with bilateral varicocele. Intraoperative measurements revealed a bilateral varicocele prevalence of 93.88% (169/180). Patient follow-up showed significant improvements in sperm parameters at 3 and 6 months post-varicocele surgery, with 59 patients (32.77%) achieving successful pregnancies 12 months after the procedure.
Conclusions: The significance of bilateral varicocele in infertile men is often underestimated. Bilateral varicocelectomy has shown substantial benefits for male fertility. Thorough evaluation by experienced radiologists and andrologists is crucial to avoid missing important pathological findings or adverse treatment outcomes.