bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transmission Lines in Modern Communication Systems: A Systematic Review
Authors: Briones Mika Allyana , Fung Anajasnie Shamei , Arboleda Edwin
Published: May 2024

This review aims to comprehensively synthesize the most recent research, collected from reputable databases, focusing specifically on transmission line. It examines advancements and challenges in data transmission. Fiber optics remains dominant, with new fiber designs and signal processing techniques like SDM improving capacity. Researchers are also addressing signal distortion and crosstalk. Beyond fiber optics, the review explores findings in coaxial cables and the promise of graphene for future high-speed transmission. Novel methods for mitigating crosstalk are presented. The findings highlight a trend towards more dependable, effective, and versatile transmission methods, with implications for various industries and electronic systems.
Correlational Analysis of Genetic Mutations and Galectin Levels in Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Markalunas Ella G. , Arnold David H. , Funkhouser Avery T. , Martin Julie C. , Shtutman Michael , Edenfield William J. , Blenda Anna V.
Published: May 2024

Background: Galectins are innate immune system regulators, associated with disease progression in cancer. This paper aims to investigate the correlation between mutated cancer-critical genes and galectin levels in breast cancer patients to determine whether galectins and genetic profiles can be used as biomarkers for disease and potential therapy targets. Materials and Methodology: Prisma Health Cancer Institute’s Biorepository provided seventy-one breast cancer patient samples, including all four stages as well as major molecular subtypes and histologies of breast cancer. Hotspot mutation statuses of cancer-critical genes were determined using multiplex PCR in tumor samples from the same patients by Precision Genetics and the University of South Carolina Functional Genomics Core Facility. The galectin levels of patients’ sera were analyzed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to measure the concentrations of galectins-1, -3, and -9. Analysis was performed using JMP software to compare mean and median serum galectin levels between samples with and without specific cancer-critical genes including pooled t-test, Wilcoxon test, ANOVA, Tukey’s range test, and Steel Dwass Method (α=0.05). Results: Our analysis indicates that KIT mutations correlate with elevated serum levels of galectin-1 and -9 in patients with breast cancer. In patients with Luminal A subtype, FLT3 mutation correlates with lower serum galectin-1 and -9 levels and TP53 mutations correlate with higher serum galectin-3 levels. Patients with invasive ductal carcinoma had significantly higher serum galectin-3 levels than patients with ductal carcinoma in situ. Patients with both TP53 and PIK3CA mutations exhibit elevated serum galectin-3 levels, while patients with one or neither mutation show no significant difference in serum galectin-3 levels. In addition, metastatic breast cancer samples were more likely to have KIT or PIK3CA mutation compared to primary breast cancer samples. Conclusion: The relationship between genetic mutations and galectin levels has the potential to identify appropriate candidates for combined therapy, targeting genetic mutations and galectins. Further understanding of the effect of genetic mutations and galectin levels on cancer progression and metastasis could aid in the search for biomarkers for breast cancer diagnosis, disease progression, and prognosis.
Stable Production of a Recombinant Single-Chain Eel Follicle-Stimulating Hormone Analog in CHO DG44 Cells
Authors: Byambaragchaa Munkhzaya , Park Sei Hyen , Kim Sang-Gwon , Shin Min Gyu , Kim Shin-Kwon , Park Myung-Hum , Kang Myung-Hwa , Min Kwan-Sik
Published: May 2024

This study aimed to produce single-chain recombinant eel follicle-stimulating hormone (rec-eel FSH) analogs with high activity in Chinese hamster ovary DG44 (CHO DG44) cells. We recently reported that an O-linked glycosylated carboxyl-terminal peptide (CTP) of the equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) β-subunit plays contributes on high activity and time-dependent secretion in mammalian cells. We constructed a mutant (FSH-M) in which a linker including the eCG β-subunit CTP region (amino acids 115 to149) was inserted between the β-subunit and α-subunit of wild-type single chain eel FSH (FSH-wt). Plasmids containing eel FSH-wt and eel FSH-M were transfected into CHO DG44 cells. Single cells expressing each protein were isolated from 10 and 7 clones, respectively. Secretion increased gradually during the cultivation period and peaked at 4,000–5,000 ng/mL on day 9. The molecular weight of eel FSH-wt was 34–40 kDa, while that of eel FSH-M increased substantially, with two bands at 39–46 kDa. Treatment with PNGase F to remove the N glycosylation sites decreased the molecular weight remarkably to approximately 8 kDa. The EC50 value and maximal responsiveness of eel FSH-M were approximately 1.23- and 1.06-fold higher than those of eel FSH-wt, indicating that the mutant showed slightly higher biological activity. Phosphorylated extracellular regulated kinase (pERK1/2) activation exhibited a sharp peak at 5 min, followed by a rapid decline. These findings indicate that the new rec-eel FSH molecule with the eCG β-subunit CTP linker showed potent activity and could be produced in massive quantities using the stable CHO DG44 cell system.
A Bibliometric Review of the Trends of Construction Digitalization Research in the Last Decade
Authors: Ametepey Simon O. , Aigbavboa Clinton , Thwala Wellington Didibhuku , Addy Hutton
Published: May 2024

The integration of digital technologies into construction practices has emerged as a pivotal area of interest, reflecting its substantial influence on the future trajectory of the construction industry. This study undertakes a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of literature on construction digitalization spanning from 2013 to 2023, sourced from the Elsevier Scopus database. Employing key terms such as "construction digitalization," "BIM," "construction 4.0," and "digital construction methodologies," the research methodically extracts and scrutinizes relevant articles. Advanced tools like the VOS viewer were utilized to delve into the bibliometric networks, offering insights into prevailing research trends within the built environment sector. The findings reveal a pronounced emphasis on digital modeling, automation, blockchain technologies, and emerging paradigms such as smart contracts and modular construction. This investigation enriches the academic discourse by elucidating the varied subtleties, ongoing shifts, and prospective directions in the ever-evolving landscape of construction digitalization research.
Deficiency of ValRS-m Causes Male Infertility in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Duan Xin , Wang Hao Lin , Cao Zhi Xian , Su Na , Wang Yu feng , Zheng Ya
Published: May 2024

The Drosophila spermatogenesis has the renewal of germline stem cells, meiosis of spermatocytes, and morphological transformation of spermatids into mature sperm. We previously demonstrated that Ocnus (ocn) plays an essential role in spermatogenesis. ValRS-m (Valyl-tRNA synthetase, mito-chondrial) gene was downregulated in ocn RNAi testes. By hatchability testing, we found that ValRS-m-knockdown induced complete sterility of male flies. We also concluded that ValRS-m-knockdown inhibited the transition from spermatogonia to spermatocytes and caused accumulated spermatogonia in testes. To understand the intrinsic reason for this destruction, we further conducted transcriptome sequencing analysis in ValRS-m RNAi testes. A total of 7710 dif-ferentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified to have at least a 2-fold change with a p-value of
Thermal Emittance Measurement of Very Low-Emissive Materials for Solar Thermal Applications
Authors: Gaudino Eliana , Farooq Umar , Caldarelli Antonio , Strazzullo Paolo , De Luca Daniela , Di Gennaro Emiliano , Musto Marilena , Russo Roberto
Published: May 2024

In the quest for more efficient solar thermal systems, accurately determining the thermal emittance of low-emissive materials is crucial in determining the power losses. This paper describes the calorimetric method designed to precisely measure the thermal emittance of Selective Solar Absorbers (SSAs) to be used in High Vacuum Flat Plate Collectors (HVFPCs). The method's capability is demonstrated through the successful correction of thermal emittance values for copper samples of varying sizes, including dimensions down to 49 cm². Results highlight the method's potential to significantly reduce measurement errors associated with small-size and/or low-emittance samples, providing a path forward to improve the design and efficiency of SSAs. This research marks a significant step in advancing solar thermal technology by enabling emittance measurements with a precision better than 0.003, which is essential for the development of high-performance solar thermal absorbers. The method has also been applied to correct the thermal emittance value of SSA measured in previous measurement campaigns, and it allows a better estimation of the SSA efficiency conversion curve.
Application of Multiplex Genome Editing Technology on Targeted Improvement of Ecological Adaptability of the Geng Rice Variety Jiahe212
Authors: He Dengmei , Chen Xi , Zhou Ran , Huang Chenbo , Li Yanhui , Peng Zequn , Li Dian , Duan Wenjing , Cao Liyong , Cheng Shihua , Zhan Xiaodeng , Sun Lianping , Wang Shiqiang
Published: May 2024

The flowering period of rice significantly impacts variety adaptability and yield formation. Properly shortening the reproductive period of rice varieties can expand their ecological range without significant yield reduction. Targeted genome editing, like CRISPR/Cas9, is an ideal tool to fine-tune rice growth stages and boost yield synergistically. In this study, we developed a CRISPR/Cas9-mediated multiplex genome editing vector containing five genes related to three traits: Hd2, Ghd7, and DTH8 (flowering stage genes), along with the recessive rice blast resistance gene Pi21 and the aromatic gene BADH2. This vector was introduced into the high-quality Geng rice variety in Zhejiang province, Jiahe212 (JH212), resulting in 34 T0 plants with various effective mutations. Among the 17 mutant T1 lines, several displayed diverse flowering dates, but most exhibited undesirable agronomic traits. Notably, three homozygous mutant lines (JH-C15, JH-C18, and JH-C31) showed slightly earlier flowering dates without significant differences in yield-related traits compared to JH212. Through special Hyg and Cas marker selection of T2 plants, we identified 7, 6, and 2 fragrant glutinous plants devoid of transgenic components, respectively. These single plants will serve as sib lines of JH212 and potential resources for breeding applications, including maintenance lines for Xian-Geng interspecific three-line hybrid rice. In summary, our research offers practical insights and potential resources for targeted improvement of Geng rice varieties, and would also promote the Geng rice varieties expending from the southward to the northward.
Electronic Logistic Management Information System in Public Health Facilities and its Implications for the Medicine Supply Chain in Singida District Council, Tanzania
Authors: Milulu Anwar , Mwita Stanley , Basinda Namanya
Published: May 2024

Effective management of the medicine supply chain is crucial for ensuring the availability of essential medicines and supplies in public health facilities. This study aimed to determine the utilization of the electronic logistic management information system (e-LMIS) in public health facilities and its implications for the medicine supply chain. A mixed-methods approach, combining both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods was used. The study was conducted in 106 healthcare providers from 35 public health facilities in Singida District. Six key informants were interviewed in a qualitative method. Of 106 participants, (62.3%) said they were somehow competent in e-LMIS utilization. In in-depth interviews, respondents underscored the system's utility for tracking stock levels, procurements, and managing orders. Staff shortage and lack of customized training were mentioned as major challenges, hindering efficiency in managing drug supplies. This study highlighted the positive impact of e-LMIS on various aspects of the medicine supply chain, including the timely submission of orders and enhanced inventory management. Sustained management support and regular utilization of the e-LMIS system are crucial for building and maintaining competence among healthcare providers, thereby optimizing the medicine supply chain and ultimately improving healthcare delivery.
The Influence of Knowledge about Anemia, Dates, and Iron Tablets on Hemoglobin Levels in Prospective Pregnant Women at South Klaten Community Health Center
Authors: Yulaikah Siti , Kuswati Kuswati
Published: May 2024

Background: Anemia, commonly known as a deficiency in blood, influences individual behavior. Higher knowledge about anemia before conception correlates with a greater awareness of nutritional needs. Preventing anemia in preconception women involves iron tablet consumption, while dates serve as an alternative means to prevent anemia. This study aims to ascertain the influence of anemia knowledge, date consumption, and iron tablet intake on hemoglobin levels among prospective pregnant women at the Klaten Selatan Community Health Center. This research heald on January to September 2023 in the operational area of the Klaten Selatan Community Health Center.

Methods: This research adopts a pre-experimental design employing a one- group pretest-posttest study. Purposive Random Sampling method is used, encompassing 40 research subjects. The dependent variable is hemoglobin levels, while the independent variables are knowledge about anemia, date consumption, and iron tablets. Data collection involves primary data through questionnaire responses and observation sheets. Research analysis includes univariate analysis, bivariate analysis utilizing the Spearman Rho test for knowledge variables and the Friedman test for date and iron tablet consumption variables. Results: There is a significant impact of knowledge about anemia (p = 0.000), date consumption (p = 0.0094), and iron tablet intake (p = 0.0073) on hemoglobin levels among prospective pregnant women.

Conclusion: Knowledge about anemia influences hemoglobin levels, and there is an increase in hemoglobin levels after consuming dates and iron tablets among prospective pregnant women at the Klaten Selatan Community Health Center.

 

Keywords: Knowledge, Dates, Iron Tablets, Hemoglobin Levels

 
The Effect of Giving a Combination of Lavender Aromatherapy Oil and Oxytocin Massage on the Smooth Flow of Breast Milk in Breastfeeding Mothers
Authors: Yasiroh Umi , Wardani Endah Kusuma , Soekardjo Soekardjo
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Breast milk is known to have good nutritional content, following WHO recommendations regarding the importance of exclusive breastfeeding for babies during the first six months. The factors inhibiting the release of breast milk are very diverse, and one way to overcome this is by giving a combination of lavender aromatherapy oil and oxytocin massage by massaging the back area of the spine. Combining these two methods can influence the flow of breast milk to increase the release of the hormone oxytocin. The research aimed to identify the effect of a combination of lavender aromatherapy oil and oxytocin massage on the smooth flow of breast milk in breastfeeding mothers.

Methods: This type of research is pre-experimental with a one-group pretest-posttest design approach. The number of respondents was 30 breastfeeding mothers using the accidental sampling research method according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The independent variable combines lavender aromatherapy oil and oxytocin massage, given three times a week according to the SOP for 15-20 minutes for each respondent. The dependent variable is smooth breastfeeding, conducting interviews and observations before and after the intervention. Data analysis used the Wilcoxon test.

Result: The research results before the intervention were that half of the respondents had good breastfeeding fluency, namely 15 people (50%), and after being given the intervention, most respondents had good breastfeeding fluency, namely 20 people (66.7%). The Wilcoxon test results showed a p value of 0.000, which means that there is an effect of giving a combination of lavender aromatherapy oil and oxytocin massage on the smooth flow of breast milk in breastfeeding mothers.
Conclusion: It is hoped that the results of this research can be applied to support exclusive breastfeeding and used as a source of information, reference, and comparison in handling breast milk disorders in breastfeeding mothers for further research
THE EFFECT OF EDUCATIONAL VIDEOS ABOUT REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH ON PROMISCUOUS ATTITUDE IN STUDENTS AT SMP MUHAMMADIYAH 2 GAMPING, SLEMAN, YOGYAKARTA
Authors: Yumna Aisyah Nurul , Suryaningsih Endang Koni
Published: May 2024

Background: Teenagers are the next generation who can shape the nation in a better direction and have far-sighted thinking that can benefit themselves, their families, and the surrounding environment. In the same word, teenagers who are still unstable tend to experience lower self-control and self-awareness than adults. Teenagers must understand promiscuity because it can have bad consequences for the growth and development of children as well as teenagers. The study aimed at knowing the effect of educational videos on reproductive health on promiscuous attitude in students at SMP (Junior High School) Muhammadiyah 2 Gamping, Sleman, Yogyakarta.

Methods: The research applied the Quasy Experiment with a one-group pretest-posttest design. The population in this study was class VII students amounting to 110 students. The sampling technique used was Proportionate stratified random sampling with a total sample of 43 respondents. The data were analyzed using Paired t-tests.

Results: The results of the analysis showed that the average promiscuous attitude before the given intervention was 75.27. The average promiscuous attitude after the given intervention increased to 79.45. With the results of the paired t-test, the p-value of (0.000) ≤ 0.05 was obtained.

Conclusion: It can be concluded that educational video about reproductive health influences in improving the promiscuous attitude in students of SMP Muhammadiyah 2 Gamping, Sleman, Yogyakarta.
Optimizing the Implementation of an Electronic-Based Government System (SPBE) in Overseas Official Travel Permits in Higher Education
Authors: Rohmat Aas , Muhtarom Muhammad , Ismiyanto Ismiyanto , Elisanti Evi , Febriani Anies Fortina
Published: May 2024

The research aims to determine the optimization of the implementation of an electronic-based government system (SPBE) in licensing overseas official travel for state civil servants in higher education. The research method used is descriptive qualitative. The normative legal approach is research that examines document studies using various secondary data. The research location is at one of the universities in the city of Solo. Data collection techniques are carried out using literature studies, observation, interviews, and documentation through field observations as research objects. Data analysis in this research uses qualitative analysis techniques. The research results show that optimizing the implementation of an electronic-based government system requires an appropriate policy framework, so that the SPBE vision can be achieved. SPBE is expected to be able to realize an integrated work process that is effective, efficient, and improves the quality of public services on overseas official trips at universities. The development of SPBE can increase ASN human resources in mastering information and communication technology both in quality and quantity so that overseas official travel services are optimal for state civil servants in higher education. The conclusion of this research is to maximize or minimize achieving a goal precisely, effectively, efficiently, and beneficially in implementing an Electronic-Based Government System (SPBE) during overseas official trips.
Entrepreneurial Government Pada Pemerintahan Desa Cibiru Hilir Kecamatan Cileunyi Kabupaten Bandung
Authors: Tati Tati , Febriyanti Feni , Latifah Yantsa Kahfi
Published: May 2024

Konsep pemerintahan wirausaha dalam konteks pemerintahan daerah sangat relevan untuk diadopsi dalam pola pikir para pejabat pemerintah. Undang-Undang Nomor 23 Tahun 2014 Tentang Pemerintahan Daerah memberikan ruang yang luas bagi penerapan pendekatan baru dalam pengelolaan pemerintahan secara efisien, efektif, responsif, dan transparan terhadap kebutuhan masyarakat. Hal serupa juga terjadi di Desa Cibiru Hilir di Kecamatan Cileunyi, Kabupaten Bandung yang merupakan salah satu pemerintah daerah. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui bagaimana konsep Entrepreneurial Government diterapkan dalam pemerintahan Desa Cibiru Hilir. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah penelitian kualitatif. Teknik pengumpulan data meliputi wawancara, observasi, dan dokumentasi. Informan yang ditentukan berjumlah tujuh orang dengan menggunakan teknik purposive sampling, sedangkan keabsahan data dipastikan melalui teknik analisis data. Temuan penelitian menunjukkan bahwa implementasi pemerintahan wirausaha dalam tata kelola Desa Cibiru Hilir belum dilaksanakan secara optimal ditinjau dari aspek berorientasi pelanggan, efisiensi pengelolaan anggaran, daya tanggap, daya saing, dan inovasi/kreativitas.
The effect of alcoholic extract of Citrullus colocynthis on the structural manifestations of the parasite Fasciola gigantica and its comparison with the drug pendazole
Authors: Nawar Ali Mutlak , Dawood Wissam Malik , Kadhem Nagham Yassin
Published: May 2024

The current study aims to find out the effect of alcoholic extracts of the fruit of the Citrullus colocynthis plant, as it was during the current study during the period from 12/2/2022 to 24/4/2023 and by 206 livers for cows, including (31) infected livers and 1348 livers for sheep that did not show infection. In the current study, the incidence of giant liver Fasciola gigantica cows was 15.04%, while sheep hadn't infection during the study period. The results of the current study show that there are different effects in the tissues of the treated worms if compared to the control group, which was showing the integrity of the tissues well after 6 hours, as it is observed the layers of the body wall, spines and muscle layers that cover the wall, as well as the parenchyma tissue in which the body systems are embedded, which did not notice any changes in those tissues and structures, which include (for intestinal backfilling, testicles, mules and uterus). As noted, the damages vary according to the concentration of separation and deformation in the longitudinal and circular muscles, and a few cells are seen in the tenderloin. The thorns are still present in the cover, and the effect of the drug albendazole is little practical Clearly.
Gut commensals require Peyer’s patches to induce protective systemic IgA responses
Authors: Wilmore Joel , Harris Joshua , Zoccoli-Rodriguez Victoria , Delaney Mara , Cruz Tania , Guadette Brian
Published: May 2024

Gut educated IgA secreting plasma cells that disseminate beyond the mucosa and into systemic tissues have been described as providing beneficial effects from disease in several contexts. Several bacteria have been implicated in the induction of systemic IgA, however the mechanisms that result in differential levels of induction by each bacterial species are still unknown. Here we show, the commensal bacteria, Bacteroides fragilis (Bf), is an efficient inducer of systemic IgA responses. The ability of Bf to induce the production of bone marrow IgA plasma cells and high levels of serum IgA relied on high levels of gut colonization in a dose-dependent manner. Colonization induced Bf-specific IgA responses were severely diminished in the absence of Peyer’s patches, but not the murine cecal patch. Colonization of mice with Bf, a natural human commensal, resulted in few changes within the microbiome and the host transcriptional profile in the gut, suggesting a commensal relationship with the host. Bf colonization did benefit the mice by inducing systemic IgA that led to increased protection in a bowel perforation model resulting in lower peritoneal abscess formation. These findings demonstrate a critical role for bacterial colonization and Peyer’s patches in the induction of robust systemic IgA responses that confer protection from bacterial dissemination outside of the gut.
Analysis of 16S rRNA amplicon data illuminates the major role of environment in determining the marine plastisphere microbial communities
Authors: Ramakodi Meganathan P. , Saravanan Palanivishwanath
Published: May 2024

Microplastics (MPs) are a potential threat to the marine environment and its associated ecosystem functions. Earlier investigations revealed that the microbiome plays a crucial role in deciding the fate of MPs in the environment. Further studies also highlighted the influences of environment and polymer types on the plastisphere microbiome. Nevertheless, the major factor that determines the plastisphere microbiome remains elusive. Thus, we examined the publicly available marine plastisphere data generated from polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and polystyrene (PS), collected from three different locations to identify the importance of environment and /or polymer types in shaping the microbiome. The beta diversity analyses showed a clear distinction between samples collected from different locations. The PERMANOVA results illustrated a significant influence of environment and sample type (control/PE/PP/PS) on the microbial communities. However, the influence of sample type on microbial diversity was not significant (P-value>0.05) when the control samples were removed from the dataset but the environment remained a significant factor (P-value<0.05). Further, the differential abundance analyses explicitly showed the abundance of several taxa to be significantly influenced (adjusted P-value<0.05) by the locations than the polymer types. Thus, this study suggests that both the surrounding environment and polymer types determine the microbial communities on marine MPs but the role of environment in shaping the microbial composition is greater than that of polymer types.
GATA1: A Key Biomarker for Predicting the Prognosis of Patients With Diffuse Large B- cell Lymphoma
Authors: Zhang Yuxin , Wang Yue , Wang Shifen , Cui Dawei , Wei Zheng
Published: May 2024

Background
Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is a common and highly aggressive type of lymphoma. Iron metabolism plays a critical role in human diseases, however, which remains completely unclear in patients with DLBCL. The aim is to explore the genetic characteristics and molecular mechanisms underlying iron metabolism in patients with DLBCL.
Methods
Based on the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and the GeneCards database, weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was performed on the DLBCL sample (GSE83632) and Iron metabolism-related datasets. Enrichment analysis(GO/KEGG enrichment analysis and GSEA enrichment analysis) was used to screen the key gene and analyze its expression and possible mechanism of action in patients with DLBCL. The quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) was used to verify the expression of GATA1 gene.
Results
GATA-binding factor 1 (GATA1), as a key gene of iron metabolism in DLBCL patients, was related to the myeloid cell differentiation and granulocyte differentiation pathways to affect CD4+ T cells, B cells, and monocytes. GATA1 was strongly positively correlated with sensitivity to multiple targeted drugs including imatinib, nilotinib, and crizotinib, but negatively correlated with the PI3K and CDK9 inhibitors. The patients with high GATA1 expression had higher overall survival and better prognosis than the patients with low expression. Additionally, high expression of GATA1 gene was confirmed in DLBCL patients by qRT-PCR analysis.
Conclusions
GATA1 as one of the important genes of iron metabolism suggested a significant biomarker for predicting the prognosis of DLBCL patients.
Revealing the intricacies: A comprehensive study of the CARD14 gene in Psoriatic patients of Indian descent
Authors: Singh S. , Pradhan D. , Puri P. , Sharma Shruti , Jain A. K.
Published: May 2024

Several Genome Wide linkage Studies on psoriasis performed to gain insight of genetic architecture of the disease. Caspase Recruitment Domain-containing family 14 (CARD14) also known as CARMA2 or BIMP2; cytogenic location: 17q25.3, is a scaffold protein that primarily controls the skin epidermis’s nuclear factor kB (NF-kB) signaling pathway activity in skin epidermis, a master gene for inflammation, has been shown to be linked with rare, heritable form of psoriasis. CARD14 is predominantly expressed in keratinocytes and epithelial cells, but also in unidentified dermal cells. For better understanding of molecular processes involved in CARD14 underlying Indian psoriatic patients, we analyzed gene expression of 42 moderates to severe cases of plaque psoriasis and same number of controls using qPCR and its validation through Immunohistochemistry (IHC). This study identifies that the expression of CARD14 in dermal endothelial cells among patients with psoriasis and explores the potential functional consequences associated with an overactive CARD14 gene. Furthermore, the expression data from the western population was consistent with the results of the qPCR validation of the candidate gene. There is a significant correlation between Indian psoriasis vulgaris patients and CARD14 up-regulation, as evidenced by a roughly two-fold shift in lesional tissue expression. This provides insights into the pathways and genes linked to the pathogenesis of psoriasis.
Exploring Adaptive Strategies and Resilience to Drought Stress Across Diverse Populations of Sporobolus Ioclados in the Cholistan Desert
Authors: Rehman Abdul , Memon Rabia Asma , Hameed Mansoor , Naz Nargis , Shah Anis Ali , Gatasheh Mansour K. , Shaffique Shifa , Abbas Toqeer
Published: May 2024

The present research was carried out at the Khawaja Fareed Government College, Rahim Yar Khan, Pakistan, to check the drought tolerance mechanisms of fifteen distinct ecotypes of Sporobolus ioclados. These ecotypes were cultivated using regular nursery techniques, and then exposed to four different degrees of drought in a carefully monitored experimental setting. The experiment's two-factorial arrangement of populations and drought treatments was performed three times to achieve statistical significance. Sporobolus ioclados's plant height, number of roots, flag leaf area, stomatal features, and proline concentration all varied significantly as a result of the plant's physiological and morphological responses to drought stress. A mixture of statistical methods, including ANOVA, PCA, HCA, and DFA, offered a thorough knowledge of the plant's adaptation processes and the level of ecotype diversity within the species. Drought stress caused significant changes in morphological and physiological features, and proline content was negatively correlated with photosynthetic activity, indicating that proline protects against drought. Sporobolus ioclados populations have varied adaptation strategies, and the species' potential for afforestation in dry environments was shown using PCA and DFA analysis. This work significantly contributes to climate change research and ecosystem conservation by revealing drought-tolerant plants for desert places.
Aerial Image Analysis of Changes in Wetlands between 2019 and 2023 in the Barataria and Breton Sound Basins of Coastal Louisiana
Authors: Potter Christopher
Published: May 2024

Loss of marshlands in the Mississippi Delta plain of Louisiana threatens the future of the region’s economy, one which is heavily reliant on coastal wetland resources. This study builds on previous remote sensing investigations over the Barataria and Breton Sound Basins to make increasingly detailed assessments of changes occurring in coastal wetlands of southern Louisiana from both human extractive activities and repeated hurricanes. Analysis over the past four years (2019 to 2023) using NDWI from aerial image acquisitions revealed that there has been a widespread increase in relatively deep-water coverage (and corresponding losses of marshland coverage) since 2019 over most of the Barataria and Breton Sound Basins. Scouring of formerly shallow water cover and widespread erosion of brackish and fresh marshland shorelines followed the storm surges of Hurricanes Zeta (2020) and Ida (2021). Heightened fragmentation of marshland edges and interior pond features based on patch metric analysis implied that different types of damage inflicted on coastal wetlands of southeastern Louisiana from tropical storms can be characterized using aerial remote sensing.
Halofantrine up-regulates ATP6V0D2 mediating cytotoxic autophagy in glioblastoma and its mechanism
Authors: Huang Ni , Chen Wei , Tang Ke , Liu Guoqi
Published: May 2024

Background
Halofantrine is a drug used to treat malaria, and recent studies have shown that it has potential to treat glioblastoma.
Objective
To study the inhibitory effect of Halofantrine on glioblastoma and its mechanism.
Methods
Based on GEO database and clinical samples, the expression difference of ATP6V0D2 gene in glioblastoma was detected. The inhibitory effect of Halofantrine on U251 cells and the expression of ATP6V0D2 gene and autophagy protein at gene and protein levels were detected in vitro. The importance of ATP6V0D2 gene was verified by constructing stable overexpression and overexpression model of ATP6V0D2 gene in U251 cells. The inhibitory effect and mechanism of Halofantrine on axillary tumor model in nude mice were verified in vivo.
Results
ATP6V0D2 gene was expressed in low level in glioblastoma patients. Halofantrine up-regulates ATP6V0D2 gene mediated U251 cytotoxic autophagy. After ATP6V0D2 knockdown, Halofantrine-mediated cytotoxic autophagy of U251 was inhibited, while overexpression was reversed. In addition, Halofantrine has a good anti-GBM effect in vivo, and its mechanism of action is consistent with in vitro experiments.
Conclusion
Halofantrine can mediate toxic autophagy of U251 cells through up-regulation of ATP6V0D2. ATP6V0D2 is a key tumor suppressor gene in glioblastoma.
Detection of the Mild Myocardial Injury during Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Using Evaluation of Minor Changes on Electrocardiogram and Heart Rate Variability
Authors: Chaikovsky Illya , Dziuba Dmytro , Kryvova Olga , Chumachenko Dmytro , Todurov Boris , Loskutov Oleg
Published: May 2024

Background
As cardiovascular mortality continues to increase globally, Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) with stent placement stands out as a cutting-edge and highly effective treatment for severe cardiovascular diseases. However, the inherent invasiveness of any endovascular procedure introduces the risk of coronary vessel and myocardial damage. This study aimed to evaluate the utility of a novel electrocardiographic metric for detecting subtle myocardial injuries after coronary stenting.
Materials and Methods
This investigation was conducted in 2021 at the Kyiv Heart Institute of the Ministry of Healthcare of Ukraine. The study involved 23 patients who underwent PCI, each subject to a meticulous preoperative examination. A paired measurement approach was employed, encompassing 3-minute ECG recordings both before and several hours after the operation, using a compact ECG device. Each pair of electrocardiograms underwent thorough analysis, scrutinizing 240 primary and computed ECG parameters.
Results
The analysis delineated a distinct subgroup that exhibited significant myocardial damage after stenting. This subgroup was characterized by an older average age and more stents than their counterparts. Notably, a concurrent reduction in the psychoemotional state index was observed alongside ECG alterations in these patients, suggesting a correlation between myocardial damage and psychoemotional distress.
Discussion
The introduction of a new electrocardiographic index has illuminated the subtle myocardial damage incurred during PCI. The findings of this study underscore the complex interplay between physical cardiac trauma and psychological stress, highlighting the importance of a comprehensive approach to post-PCI patient assessment.
Conclusions
The newly devised electrocardiographic metric proved to be a significant advancement in the early detection of myocardial damage after PCI. The metric's ability to capture not only physiological but also psychoemotional changes is a pivotal step toward more integrative post-operative patient care, paving the way for enhanced recovery protocols and personalized treatment strategies in interventional cardiology.
Prevalence of Human and Animal African Trypanosomiasis in Nigeria: a Scoping Review
Authors: Odebunmi Elizabeth O. , Ibeachu Chukwuemeka , Chukwudi Chinwe U.
Published: May 2024

Background
African trypanosomiasis affects both humans (HAT) and animals (AAT). HAT is an NTD targeted for elimination in 2030, and has not been officially reported by WHO from Nigeria in the last decade despite frequent reports of animal carriers. Conversely, the burden of AAT continues to increase. This study synthesized published evidence on the prevalence of African trypanosomiasis within human and animal populations in Nigeria, the trypanosome species involved, the spread of animal reservoirs, and the variability in diagnostic methodologies employed.
Methodology/principal findings
A scoping review was performed following the methodological framework outlined in PRISMA-ScR checklist. A total of 16 eligible studies published between 1993 and 2021 were reviewed. 13 studies reported the prevalence of AAT, and 3 for HAT. Varying prevalence rates were recorded depending on the diagnostic methods employed. The overall prevalence of HAT was 3.6%, and AAT 27.3%. The highest incidence of HAT was detected using the Card Agglutination Test for Trypanosomiasis (CATT), and AAT by PCR, followed by microscopy (the most used technique). Domestic animals like cattle, pigs, and dogs were identified as carriers of the human-infective trypanosomes (T. brucei gambiense).
Conclusion
This study highlights the high prevalence and complex epidemiology of African trypanosomiasis in humans and animals in Nigeria. Remarkably, published evidence indicate that HAT is highly prevalent in Nigeria despite not being reported by WHO. However, only few studies have investigated HAT in Nigeria, indicating limited disease surveillance. Unfortunately, diagnostics challenges and disease reporting protocols seem to limit HAT reporting to WHO. Therefore, adequately coordinated epidemiological surveys and targeted intervention policies are imperative to ascertain the true epidemiological status of HAT in Nigeria towards achieving WHO’s elimination targets in 2030. The presence of animal carriers of human-infective trypanosomes underscores the importance of a one-health approach to avoid breeding the next epidemic clone in Nigeria and combat African trypanosomiasis effectively.
Purification effect and microbial community structure characteristics of modular constructed wetlands on rural domestic sewage
Authors: luo yingli , Niu xiaoyin , Xing liqi , Duan zhenhao , Ma yanfei , Li menghong
Published: May 2024

Modular artificial wetlands represent an effective engineering approach for purifying domestic sewage. This study investigates the purification efficiency of modular wetlands in treating rural domestic sewage by analyzing water quality indicators and microbial community structures under different inflow methods. The results reveal a subtle relationship between hydraulic retention time and the concentrations of various physicochemical indicators in the effluent, the latter demonstrating a trend of initial decrease followed by stabilization.The static series modular constructed wetlands exhibit removal rates of 86.21% for total phosphorus (TP), 88.68% for total nitrogen (TN), 88.70% for nitrate nitrogen (NO3−-N), 96.80% for ammonium nitrogen (NH4+-N), and 97.62% for chemical oxygen demand (COD). In comparison, the circular series modular artificial wetland achieves removal rates of 86.18%, 91.56%, 89.24%, 96.73%, and 97.39% for TP, TN, NO3−-N, NH4+-N, and COD in rural domestic sewage, respectively. Analysis of the microbial community structures in these modular wetlands demonstrates that the static series exhibits higher microorganism abundance, while the cyclic series shows greater species diversity.These findings emphasize the intricate interplay between microbial communities and the purification processes within modular wetlands.
Optimal breastfeeding practice and associated factors among mothers of children 24-36 months of age in Tehuledere District, Northeast Ethiopia
Authors: Seid Osman , Tadesse Ahmed , Abegaz Nigusie Tadesse , Andargie Endalew Minwuye
Published: May 2024

Background
Breastfeeding is among the best and effective ways to promote optimal development of children in early childhood and maternal health. Recent estimates suggested that optimal breastfeeding could prevent around 12% of deaths in under-5 children every year, representing around 800,000 lives in low- and middle-income countries.
Objectives
The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of optimal breastfeeding practice and associated factors among mothers of children 24–36 months of age in Tehuledere District, North East Ethiopia, 2020.
Methods
A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 522 mothers of children 24–36 months of age from March 01–26/2020.Multistage sampling technique was used to select the study participants. Interviewer administered structured questionnaire was used to collect data from the study participants. Data were entered using epi data version 3.1 and analyzed by using SPSS version 20.0. Binary logistic regression analysis was computed.
Results
The prevalence of optimal breastfeeding was 44.3%.Access to media (AOR = 2.547[95% CI = 1.203, 5.395]), having male child (AOR = 2.697[95% CI = 1.492, 4.874]), child birth weight < 2.5kg (AOR = 4.864[95% CI = 1.240, 19.080]) and 1–3 times antenatal care(ANC) visits (AOR = .282[95% CI = .154, .518]) were the factors significantly associated with optimal breast feeding practice.
Conclusions and Recommendations
In this study, the prevalence of optimal breastfeeding practice was low. Access to media, sex of the child, weight of the child and number antenatal care visits were significantly associated. Therefore, enhancing the access to information on optimal breast feeding, minimizing sex preference in child care and strengthening focused ANC by health professionals, district health offices and partners is important in order to improve optimal breastfeeding practice.
Genetic etiology analysis of 244 fetal ventricular septal defect in the prenatal setting
Authors: Wei Bo , Ma Wei , Yu Xin-You , Li Mei-Juan , Ma Yi-Jing , Zhan Fu-Shou
Published: May 2024

Objective
This study evaluated the application of karyotyping combined with single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array and whole-exome sequencing (WES) of prenatal diagnosis of ventricular septal defect (VSD), and explored the genetic etiology of VSD.
Methods
244 fetuses with VSD diagnosed by prenatal echocardiography were selected, including 59 cases isolated VSD and 185 cases non-isolated VSD, and used for conventional karyotyping and SNP analysis at the same time. Among them, 19 fetuses were used for further Trio-WES detection.
Results
20 chromosomal abnormality were identified by karyotyping/SNP array. Another 21 cases of abnormal copy number variations (CNVs) were identified by SNP array, including 10 cases of pathogenic CNVs and 11 cases of variations of uncertain significance (VUS). 5 cases with (likely) pathogenic genetic variants were identified by Trio-WES. The detection rate of pathogenic chromosomal and gene abnormalities in non-isolated VSD (33/185) was significantly higher than that in isolated VSD (2/59) (17.84% vs 3.39%, p = 0.006). For non-isolated VSD, the detection rate for VSD with extra-cardiac defects (10/20) was significantly higher than that in VSD with cardiac defects (9/45) (50.00% vs 20.00%, p = 0.014) and soft markers (14/116) (50.00% vs 12.07%, p < 0.001). Trisomy 21 and 22q11.2 deletion syndrome were the most common chromosomal abnormalities. Additionally, we found six gene variants might be associated with the causative genetic mechanisms of VSD.
Conclusion
The rational combination of karyotyping, SNP array and Trio-WES can effectively improve the detection rate of chromosomal and gene abnormalities in VSD fetuses. Ultrasound abnormalities, such as VSD with extra-cardiac defects and multiple soft markers added detection of pathogenic abnormalities.
Prevalence and correlates of mental health among COVID-19 patients under the stage of the 2022 Shanghai COVID-19 lockdown
Authors: Mao Xiaofei , Zhang Fan , Zhang Jianguo , Hou Tianya , Ni Chunyan
Published: May 2024

Background: The 2022 Shanghai COVID-19 lockdown may bring about great psychological problems to COVID-19 patients. We aimed to examine the prevalence and correlates of mental health among COVID-19 patients.
Methods: 208 COVID-19 patients were recruited in Shanghai, China through convenience sampling method. Demographic scales and mental health questionnaires (GAD-7, PHQ-9, ISI, and IES-R) were applied. Binary logistic regression analysis was adopted to detect the associated factors.
Results: The incidence rates of anxiety, depression, insomnia, and PTSD was 6.7%, 12.0%, 9.6%, and 23.1% among COVID-19 patients under the stage of the 2022 Shanghai COVID-19 lockdown, respectively. The results indicated that married subjects (OR=19.69, 95% CI= [2.26-171.86], P<0.01) showed higher levels of anxiety, whereas patients who had college degree or above (OR=0.19, 95% CI= [0.04-0.86], P<0.05) and respondents who had children (OR=0.04, 95% CI= [0.04-0.47], P<0.05) might experience lower levels of anxiety. The female patients may have less problems in insomnia (OR=0.33, 95% CI= [0.12-0.89], P<0.05).
Conclusion: Special attention and interventions in mental health should be paid to the infected patients, especially for people being married, obtaining lower levels of educational degree, having no child, and being male.
A Study of the corrosion inhibition of aluminum in ethanol-gasoline blend by using Annona muricata leaves extract
Authors: Benitez Dinora A. Nogueiron , Galvez Ana K. Larios , Sesenes Roy Lopez , Arteaga America M. Ramirez , Rodriguez José G. Gonzalez
Published: May 2024

The effect of Annona muricata leaves extract as an inhibitor of green corrosion of aluminum was investigated 20% cane ethanol and 80% gasoline blend solution for 91 days of immersion. It was evaluated using gravimetric and electrochemical techniques such as electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), linear polarization resistance (LPR) and electrochemical noise (EN). The studies revealed that Annona muricata extract is an efficient corrosion inhibitor, reaching its highest efficiency at concentrations of 20 and 25 ppm. This decrease in the corrosion rate is because the inhibitor adsorbs to the aluminum surface by physisorption according to the Langmuir adsorption isotherm and demonstrated a more notable protective effect Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analyzes were performed, which showed the presence of phenolic compounds, lauric acid, palmitic acid, linoleic acid, vitamin E and other compounds with antioxidant properties. The morphology of the aluminum surface was examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), showing the existence of a protective layer of Annona muricata extract that reduces pitting corrosion susceptibility of aluminum.