bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isolation and identification of feather-degrading bacteria and cloning and expression of the keratinase gene
Authors: Ma Chengying , Feng Yingying , Chen Bingrui , Meng Zhichao , Meng Dongheng , Fan Yonghong , Zhang Yinghao
Published: April 2024

In this study, the strain CY-A, which has high feather degradation efficiency, was screened from the soil of a chicken pen. Bacillus tequilensis was identified by biological methods. The keratinase gene (bta) of Bacillus tequilensis CY-A was cloned by genetic engineering. The gene is 1110 bp in length, contains an open reading frame of 1089 bp and encodes 369 amino acids. The obtained gene sequence and amino acid sequence have been registered to GenBank under the database accession number OR733336.1. The physicochemical properties, secondary structure and tertiary structure of the protein were analysed by bioinformatics tools, and the relative molecular mass was found to be 37.953 kDa. The tertiary structure of keratin was 98.30% similar to that of Bacillus subtilis arpE. Finally, the keratinase gene bta was ligated to the expression vector pET28a (+) to construct the expression plasmid pET28a(+)-bta, which was subsequently transformed into E. coli BL21 (DE3) to generate engineered recombinant bacteria. Recombinant keratinase Bta was purified using Ni2+ column affinity chromatography with a molecular weight of approximately 37.953 kDa. Further studies on its recombinant enzymatic properties revealed that the enzyme activity of Bta was 283.93 U/mL, the optimum pH was 8, and the optimum reaction temperature was 50°C. Ca2+ has a very significant role in promoting Bta. EDTA and SDS can significantly inhibit the enzyme activity of Bta, which indicates that the enzyme activity requires metal ions. At a concentration of 10 mmol. L-1, PMSF almost completely inhibited the enzyme activity of Bta, indicating that Bta is a typical serine protease. The identification of the keratinase gene provides a theoretical basis for further improving keratinase activity via genetic engineering.
Evaluation of the Soft Tissue Effects of Early Childhood Caries on Oral Health-Related Quality of Life: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Kurt Ayça , Bolat Damla , Hatipoğlu Ömer
Published: April 2024

Early Childhood Caries (ECC) is a prevalent oral disease that primarily affects children. The objective of this study was to examine the prevalence of ECC, the extent of caries, and its impact on soft tissue and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in children aged 3–6 years using the Early Childhood Oral Health Impact Scale (ECOHIS). The study participants comprised 300 children in the specified age range and their respective parents or caregivers. Clinical examinations of the children were carried out using the dmft, pufa, and ICDAS II indexes. Thereafter, the ECOHIS was administered through personal interviews with the parents or caregivers. The findings revealed a significant negative influence of ECC on OHRQoL (p < 0.05). The overall mean ECOHIS score was 0.62 ± 0.552, with significantly higher scores in children with a pufa index score > 0 than in those with a pufa index score of = 0 (p < 0.05). Children with deep caries had significantly higher ECOHIS scores than those with initial caries (p < 0.05). Early detection and management of caries play a vital role in enhancing the OHRQoL of children and their families. Parents and dental practitioners should be well-informed and proactive in implementing preventive measures to promote better oral health outcomes.
Changes in Upper Limb Kinematics in Children with Cerebral Palsy After Lower Limb Surgery
Authors: Gokceoglu Yasar Samet , Bilgili Fuat , Sardogan Cansu , Koyuncu Dağhan , Akalan Ekin , Demirel Mehmet
Published: April 2024

Backround
Cerebral palsy (CP), which is characterized by movement and posture disorders, is a neurological disorder that affects the movement of both the lower and upper extremities. Current research on gait analysis in children with cerebral palsy is mostly focused on the lower extremities, whereas research on the upper extremities is limited to three-dimensional gait analysis. However, in many countries, visual gait analysis is used instead of three-dimensional gait analysis owing to its high cost. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of lower extremity surgery in children with cerebral palsy using visual gait analysis and to determine whether upper extremity kinematics change after lower extremity surgery.
Methods
The study included 30 children (17 diplegic and 13 hemiplegic) with a mean age of 8.9 years and 29 healthy children (15 boys and 14 girls) with a mean age of 9.3 years. The efficacy of the surgical procedure was determined using Edinburgh Visual Gait Scores before and after surgery. Bilateral upper limb kinematics, including wrist, elbow, shoulder, trunk, and head flexion/extension angles, as well as trunk and head lateral flexion and shoulder abduction in the coronal plane during the initial contact and mid-stance phases, were measured during all gait phases using Kinovea 0.9.5 software by 2 different observers. Preoperative, postoperative, and control groups were compared by ANOVA. The ICC test was used to evaluate the interobserver reliability between the 2 observers. Student’s t test was used to compare EVGS scores.
Results
Postoperative outcomes at the wrist and elbow were found to differ in the sagittal plane, with notable adjustments in the flexion/extension angles during the initial contact and midstance phases. In addition, compared with those in the preoperative phase, the Edinburgh Scale (Edinburgh) score showed favorable postoperative improvements.
Conclusions
This study revealed changes in the kinematics of the upper extremities after lower extremity surgery. However, further prospective randomized controlled trials with larger cohorts are needed to confirm these findings and increase the validity of these measurements.
Trial Registration
This study was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT05957783, titled "Changes in Upper Limb Kinematics in Children with Cerebral Palsy After Lower Limb Surgery." The trial was publicly registered on 07/24/2023 to ensure transparency and reproducibility of the research process. The party responsible for the trial registration was Yaşar Samet Gökçeoğlu, which is contactable via sametgokceoglu@gmail.com.
Precision medicine targets for prostate cancers in African American men
Authors: jung mira
Published: April 2024

To investigate molecular mechanisms underlying prostate cancer health disparities, the primary prostate epithelial cell cultures were established from the tumors and adjacent non-tumor tissues of prostatectomy specimens of African American (AA) men surgically treated for cancer. We performed whole genome sequencing of 10 tumor samples paired with 10 non-tumor controls derived from the same donors using next generation sequencing technologies. Here, we report that tumor cells harbor various mutations with insertion/deletion variants, some of which are unique in individual specimens. Comparative analyses of genomic profiling revealed that 40% of the cohort harbored more than 20 mutated genes with high impactful consequences, coinciding with clinical-pathological characteristics of patients, including higher Gleason’s grade and T3 clinical stage. Several mutated genes were oncogenes or potentially oncogenic variants of tumor suppressors, affecting key pathways in the carcinogenic process. Our study highlights unique somatic gene alterations in AA patient-derived prostate tumor cells offering potentially targetable drivers in support of precision medicine for individual prostate cancers rather than disease specific therapies.
Analysis of the Impact of Digital Literacy on Life Satisfaction (2019- 2022) for Older Adults in South Korea: A National Community-Based Panel Study
Authors: Lee Hocheol
Published: April 2024

This study analyzed the effects of digital literacy on life satisfaction in older adults aged 65 years and above in modern day Korea. It utilized raw data from the 2019–2022 Report on the Digital Divide, an annual survey conducted by the Korean Ministry of Science and Information and Communications Technology. A total of 4,216 participants were assessed from 2019–2022. Correlation between digital literacy and life satisfaction was analyzed using Pearson correlation analysis and polynomial linear regression analysis. Life satisfaction was significantly positively correlated with digital access, digital competency, and digital utilization in all the years. In 2019, participants’ life satisfaction score rose significantly by 0.15 with every one-point increase in digital competency. It further rose by 0.035 in 2020, 0.030 in 2021, and 0.116 in 2022. Digital literacy was consistently positively correlated with life satisfaction in each year from 2019–2022. Of the three main elements, digital competency had the strongest impact and digital information, income, and education level also significantly impacted life satisfaction. While digital competency improved steadily from 2019 to 2022, it remains below 50% for Korea’s older adult population. Further efforts are required to improve digital competency and subsequent life satisfaction among Korea’s older adult population.
Horizontal gene transfer from chloroplast to mitochondria of seagrasses in the Yellow–Bohai Seas
Authors: Yong Yu-shun , Qin Hua-Wei , Wen Yun , Zhou Yue , Ma Rui-Xue , Zhong Ming-Yu , Zhang Quan-Sheng
Published: April 2024

Background: Seagrasses are ideal for studying plant adaptation to marine environments. A previous study reported the transfer of lost chloroplast (cp) genes to the nuclear genome. However, it remains unclear whether the lost cp genes were transferred to the mitochondrial (mt) genome.
Result: A divergent evolutionary trajectory was determined between cp and mt genomes across four seagress species. The cp genome exhibited a more stable genome structure, while the mt genome displayed structural diversity. Compared to other monocotyledons, these seagrasses have smaller mt genomes. This study revealed significant gene loss during evolution, including the complete loss of all cp-rpl19 genes in Zosteraceae; most of cp-ndh genes in Hydrocharitaceae; and mt-rpl and mt-rps genes in all seagrasses, except for the mt-rpl16 gene in P. iwatensis. Notably, most ribosomal protein genes were lost in both mt and cp genomes. Horizontal gene transfer showed that the deleted cp genes were not transferred to the mt genome. Extensive sequence transfer between the organelles of the four seagrasses was discovered, with the mt genome of Zostera containing a large portion of DNA transferred from the cp genome. Rearrangement analyses revealed an inversion in the cp genome of R. sinensis, which had not been reported previously. Moreover, four positively selected genes (atp8, nad5, atp4, and ccmFn) and five variable regions (matR, atp4, atp8, rps7, and ccmFn) were identified in seagrasses, potentially associated with their adaptation to the marine environment.
Conclusion: In this study, we assembled and annotated the complete organelle genome of R. sinensis. This study enriches the genomic resources and provides new evidence of dynamic gene evolution in seagrasses.
The RNAi enhancer enoxacin inhibits the growth and migration of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma cells
Authors: Torabi Parisa , Torkian Hanieh , Miri Seyed Rohullah , Moradi Sharif
Published: April 2024

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is one of the deadliest cancers worldwide. A decrease in the global expression of microRNAs (miRNAs) is observed in various types of cancer, including esophageal cancer. It has been found that the small molecule enoxacin serves as an RNA interference (RNAi) enhancer, increasing the maturation rate of various cellular miRNAs. Here, we show that enoxacin significantly reduces the growth characteristics of ESCC cell lines. It induces cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in ESCC cells, leading to a clear decrease in ESCC cell number and viability. In addition, enoxacin suppresses the ability of cells to migrate and decreases their capacity to form colonies. Mechanistically, we reveal that enoxacin promotes the maturation of miRNAs through the stimulation of TARBP2 protein, the physical partner of DICER1. Taken together, enoxacin potently blocks the growth, motility, and clonogenicity of ESCC cells, paving the way for further investigation of this small-molecule chemical in animal models of ESCC.
Effect of Low-level Laser on Proliferation, Angiogenic and Dentinogenic Differentiation of Human Dental Pulp Stem Cells
Authors: Rezaei Fatemeh , Shakoori Shahrzad , Fazlyab Mahta , Esnaashari Ehsan , Savadkouhi Sohrab Tour
Published: April 2024

Background: The aim was to evaluate the effect of single and double doses of low-level laser irradiation on proliferation of human dental pulp stem cells (DPSC) and expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and dentine sialoprotein (DSP).
Methods: In this experimental in vitro study, after confirming the stemness of DPSCs, the cells were cultured in Dulbecco’s Modified Eagle Medium (DMEM) for MTT assay and VEGF-ELISA and osteogenic medium for DSP-ELISA. The wells containing DPSCs were divided into three main groups and 9 subgroups (n=7). In groups with single low-level laser, 660-nm diode laser was irradiated at 100 mW and 3 J/cm2 energy density for 15 seconds. In groups with double doses of low-level laser the second identical irradiation was after 48 hours. The MTT-assay and ELISA for DSP/VEGF (dentinogenic/angiogenic differentiation) were performed at 1, 7 and 14 days post irradiation. Using the SPSS software 20 (SPSS, Chicago, Ill, USA) with 95% confidence interval (P=0.05), a two-way ANOVA test with Tukey’s post hoc test was used for the effect of LLLI on VEGF and DSP. The One-Way ANOVA was used for of cell proliferation.
Results: Higher proliferation rate in both single and double low-level laser was reported. The difference was statistically significant for double doses of low-level laser (P=0.001, P=0.020 and P=0.000 for 1, 7 and 14 days, respectively). Also after one, 7 and 14 days, cells in significant increase in DSP (P>0.05) and VEGF (P>0.05) was observed that was significantly higher for double doses of low-level laser.
Conclusions: Low level laser enhanced the mitochondrial activity and proliferation of DPSCs. Increased production of DSP/VEGF indicates dentinogenic/angiogenic activity.
Clinical relevance: Low level laser increases the proliferation of DPSCs, elevates the production of VEGF (which means better angiogenesis in regenerative treatments) and increases the production of DSP (which means better dentinogenesis in vital pulp treatments)
Effect of body mass index on the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors in patients with advanced cancer: Is the obesity paradox real?
Authors: Şen Gülin Alkan , Öztaş Nihan Şentürk , Değerli Ezgi , Guliyev Murad , Turna Hande , Özgüroğlu Mustafa
Published: April 2024

Background: Recent studies have shown that an increased body mass index (BMI) is associated with an improved response to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). We evaluated the association between BMI and response to the ICIs in solid tumors.
Methods: We retrospectively analyzed patients with advanced cancer treated with ICIs at one academic center between 2014-2022. We calculated the BMI based on the weight of the patients when they started ICI treatment and divided the patients into two groups: underweight/normal weight (BMI < 25) and overweight/obese (BMI ≥ 25) and compared the treatment responses between these two groups. After excluding underweight patients, we also compared the progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) of normal-weight, overweight, and obese patients.
Results: Overall, 130 patients were evaluated. The median age was 61, and 83.8% were male. 53 (40.7) patients had BMI <25 and 77 (59.3) patients had a BMI ≥ 25. In underweight/normal patients, median PFS was 7.7 months (95% CI: 4.9–10.4) vs 8.7 months (95% CI: 2.6–14.9) in overweight/obese patients (HR 1.03, 95% CI: 0.69–1.53), p = 0.865). In underweight/normal patients, the median OS was 22.1 months (95% CI: 11.1-33.1) compared to 21.3 months (95% CI: 13.8–28.8) in overweight/obese patients (HR 1.02, 95% CI: 0.67–1.57, p = 0.898). The objective response rate (ORR) was 39.6% in underweight/normal patients and 40.3% in overweight/obese patients (p = 0.942). After excluding underweight patients, there were also no significant differences in PFS (p = 0.962), OS (p = 0.609), and ORR (p = 0.815) between patients of normal weight, overweight, and obesity.
Conclusion: In patients with advanced cancer treated with ICIs, there is no impact of BMI on PFS, OS, or ORR. Prospective studies are required to evaluate the prognostic impact of dynamic changes of BMI on the response to ICIs.
Fault Model of the 2024 Noto Peninsula Earthquake Based on Aftershock, Tsunami, and GNSS Data
Authors: Mizutani Ayumu , Adriano Bruno , Mas Erick , Koshimura Shunichi
Published: April 2024

On January 1, 2024, at 16:10 (local time), a magnitude (Mw) 7.5 earthquake occurred on the Noto Peninsula, Japan. Japan Meteorological Agency seismic intensity scale of 7 was observed and a tsunami warning was issued for a wide area along the Japan Sea. In this study, we constructed the ﬁnite fault model of this earthquake. First, we estimated the fault geometry based on the aftershock within 7 days after the mainshock, and then, estimated the slip distribution using the tsunami and GNSS data. Most of the obtained fault geometry agreed with the one detected by the Japan Sea earthquake and tsunami project (JSPJ) in the strike angle but not in the dip angle; the angles were more gradual. The slip distribution had two large slip areas on the east and west sides of the hypocenter. The model also indicated that the eastern part of the fault, or the fault buried under the sea ﬂoor, generated the tsunami which was dominant east of the peninsula. In the west of the peninsula, on the other hand, the tsunami generated by the westernmost fault, or the inland fault under the peninsula, hit ﬁrst, and then the tsunami propagating from the east of the peninsula arrived.
Two-year Follow-up of Internet-based Parent Training with Telephone Coaching Aimed at Treating Child Disruptive Behaviors in a Clinical Setting during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Sourander Saana , Westerlund Minja , Baumel Amit , Hinkka-Yli-Salomäki Susanna , Ristkari Terja , Kurki Marjo , Sourander Andre
Published: April 2024

Background:
There is a lack of studies examining the long-term outcomes of internet-based parent training programs implemented in clinical settings during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Objective:
To study two-year outcomes of families with 3–8-year-old children referred from family counseling centers to the Finnish Strongest Families Smart Website (SFSW), which provides digital parent training with telephone coaching aimed at treating child disruptive behaviors.
Methods
Counseling centers in Helsinki identified 50 3–8-year-old children with high levels of disruptive behavioral problems. Child psychopathology and functioning as well as parenting styles and parental mental health were reported by parents at baseline, posttreatment and at 6-, 12- and 24-month follow-ups.
Results
The SFSW program had positive long-term effects on child psychopathology and parenting skills. Improvements in child psychopathology, including Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) total score (Cohen’s d = 0.47, p < .001), SDQ conduct scores (Cohen’s d = 0.65; p < .001) and Affective Reactivity Index (ARI) irritability scores (Cohen’s d = 0.52; p < .001) were maintained until the 24-month follow-up. Similarly, treatment effects of parenting skills measured with the Parenting Scale, including overreactivity (Cohen’s d = 0.41; p = .001) and laxness (Cohen’s d = 0.26; p = .021), were maintained until the 24-month follow-up. Parent training did not have a long-term effect on parental hostility (Cohen’s d = − 0.04; p = .70).
Conclusions:
The study shows that the SFSW parent training program can yield significant long-term benefits. Findings indicate that the benefits of the treatment may vary between different parenting profiles, which is important to consider when developing more personalized parenting interventions.
Identifying and testing adaptive management options to increase river catchment system resilience using a Bayesian Network model
Authors: Adams Kerr James , Metzger Marc J. , Helliwell Rachel , Melville Nicola , Macleod Christopher (Kit) A. J. , Pritchard Jim , Edwards Katie , Glendell Miriam
Published: April 2024

The cumulative impacts of future climatic and socio-economic change threaten the ability of freshwater catchments to provide essential ecosystem services. Stakeholders who manage freshwaters require decision-support tools that increase their understanding of catchment system resilience and support the appraisal of adaptive management options to inform decision-making. Our research aims to test the ability of a Bayesian Network model to identify adaptive management scenarios and test their effectiveness across future pathways to 2050. Using the predominantly arable Eden catchment (320 km2), in eastern Scotland as a case study, we invited stakeholders from multiple sectors to participate in a series of workshops aimed at addressing water resource issues and achieving good ecological status in the catchment both now and in the future. Our participatory methods helped stakeholders overcome multiple layers of complexity and uncertainty associated with future-focused water management. Outputs of a Bayesian Network model simulated both current and future catchment resilience to inform the identification of five management scenarios. The effectiveness of each management scenario was tested using the Bayesian Network model. Three adaptive management scenarios increased catchment resilience and helped achieve good status; a ‘Nature-Based’ management scenario including options such as wetland wastewater treatment methods and rural sustainable drainage systems, a ‘Best Available Technology’ scenario, including aerobic granular sludge treatment, and a management scenario focused on ‘Resource Centres’, including phosphorus recovery from wastewater treatment works and constructed lagoons for crop irrigation. Findings led to a recognition that innovative and collaborative action was required to improve the current and future freshwater conditions.
Variable resolution in scale-resolved simulations of turbulence
Authors: Carlsson Magnus , Wallin Stefan , Girimaji Sharath
Published: April 2024

A new formulation for scale-resolved simulations of turbulence with variable resolution (VR) is proposed. A delayed detached-eddy simulation (DDES) model based on the k − ω framework is extended with VR-terms representing the commutation terms arising from variable resolution defined in terms of the DDES length scale. The VR-terms are responsible for the exchange of turbulence kinetic energy between the resolved and unresolved partitioning of the computational representation of turbulent flow. The new formulation is implemented in a general-purpose CFD code and applied on two cases, namely, a mixing shear layer and a wall-mounted hump and have been compared with and combined with the baseline model and two additional grey-area mitigation (GAM) formulations. The proposed method is shown to provide the mechanism for the exchange of energy between unresolved and resolved representation of the flow and to enhance the transition from modelled to resolved turbulence and thus improve the prediction of the resolved Reynolds stresses, development of the vorticity thickness for the shear layer flow and the skin friction recovery length for the hump flow.
Characterization of maternally derived antibody titers against porcine circovirus type 2 in serum of piglets and identification of piglets at elevated risk of infection
Authors: Ukita Makoto , Kano Yukine , Taharaguchi Saya , Takino Tadashi , Makita Kohei , Hagiwara Katsuro
Published: April 2024

Background
Porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) is commonly associated with several clinical syndromes and diseases collectively referred to as porcine circovirus-associated disease, which has a significant economic impact on the global swine industry. In Japan, PCV2 is endemic to most pig farms, and vaccination for piglets and/or sows has been implemented on most farms. The present study explored factors associated with piglets at elevated risk of PCV2 infection. Pre-vaccination serum samples were collected, from birth through 19 days, from 39 piglets born to five sows; these specimens were used to measure the titer of maternally derived antibody (MDA) against PCV2, immunoglobulin G concentration, and total protein concentration. Additionally, records of sow parity and piglet body weights were examined.
Results
Regarding anti-PCV2 MDA, the mean maximum sample-to-positive (S/P) ratios among litters born from the five sows differed significantly (p < 0.001). The half-life of the anti-PCV2 MDA was estimated to be 17.4 days (95% confidence interval: 16.2–18.9 days). The trend to lower antibody titers appeared to be attenuated in piglets born from sows with higher parities. Furthermore, among litters from sows with a large number of parities, litters with larger mean birth weights exhibited greater variability in antibody titers. Additionally, within litters of piglets with higher mean birth weights, piglets with lower birth weights or lower serum total protein concentrations exhibited lower antibody titers.
Conclusions
The present study aimed to evaluate the relationship between serum anti-PCV2 MDA titers and several indicators in suckling piglets and to identify characteristics of piglets at elevated risk of PCV2 infection. In the field, indicators such as sow parity, birth weight, and serum total protein concentration may facilitate the identification of piglets at elevated risk of PCV2 infection.
A microenvironment-modulating dressing with proliferative degradants for the healing of diabetic wounds
Authors: Luo Liang , Cheng Lianghui , Zhuang Zhiyong , Yin Mingming , Lu Yuan , Liu Sujuan , Zhan Minle , Zhao Liyuan , He Zhenyan , Meng Fanling , Tian Sidan
Published: April 2024

Diabetic wounds are usually entangled in a disorganized and self-perpetuating microenvironment and accompanied by a prolonged delay in tissue repair. Sustained and coordinated microenvironment regulation and tissue regeneration are key to the healing process of diabetic wounds, yet they continue to pose a formidable challenge. Here we report a rational double-layered dressing design based on chitosan and a degradable conjugated polymer polydiacetylene, poly(deca-4,6-diynedioic acid) (PDDA), that can meet this intricate requirement. With an alternating ene-yne backbone, PDDA degrades when reacting with various types of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and more importantly, generates proliferative succinic acid as a major degradant. Inheriting from PDDA, the developed PDDA-chitosan dressing PCD can eliminate ROS in the microenvironment of diabetic wounds, alleviate inflammation, and downregulate gene expression of innate immune receptors. PCD degradation also triggers simultaneous release of succinic acid in a sustainable manner, enabling long-term promotion on tissue regeneration. We have validated the biocompatibility and excellent performance of PCD in expediting the wound healing on both diabetic mouse and porcine models, which underscores the significant translational potential of this microenvironment-modulating, growth-promoting wound dressing in diabetic wounds care.
Relaxation of mucosal fibronectin fibers in late gut inflammation following neutrophil infiltration in mice
Authors: Rappold Ronja , Kalogeropoulus Konstantinos , Keller Ulrich auf dem , Slack Emma , Vogel Viola
Published: April 2024

The continuously remodeled extracellular matrix (ECM) plays a pivotal role in gastrointestinal health and disease, yet its precise functions remain elusive. In this study, we employed laser capture microdissection combined with low-input proteomics to investigate ECM remodeling during Salmonella-driven inflammation. We also probed the mechanosensitive state of fibronectin, a crucial ECM component with diverse functions dependent on its tensile state. While fibronectin fibers in healthy intestinal tissue are typically stretched, we demonstrated their relaxation only hours after infection in intestinal smooth muscles, despite the absence of bacteria in that area. In contrast, within the mucosa, where Salmonella is present starting 12 hours post-infection, fibronectin fiber relaxation occured exclusively during late-stage infection at 72 hours, and was localized to neutrophil clusters. Using N-terminomics, we identified three new cleavage sites in fibronectin in the inflamed cecum. Our work suggests that the ECM remodeling responses of different tissue layers in the intestine are distinct and carefully orchestrated.
Biogas Production from Different Food Waste Using Small-Scale Floating Drum Type Anaerobic Digester
Authors: Shehata Moustafa , Elsayed Yasser , Mohamed Ayman Mohamed Ibrahim , Ismail Mohammed , Walker Mark , Ibrahim Ibrahim Abdel-Rahman
Published: April 2024

The generation of food waste poses an escalating societal challenge. Anaerobic digestion emerges as a sustainable and eco-friendly method for valorization and disposal. A small-scale floating drum-type digester was developed, operating in batch mode to harness biogas from three distinct food waste categories. Potato Waste (PW), Leftover Cooked Food (LCF), and Fish Waste (FW) were utilized as feedstock, maintained at an average temperature of 21°C for a retention time of 10 days, with cow manure serving as the inoculum source. The advances of the current work are built upon comparing biogas production volume and methane content from mono-anaerobic digestion of these various wastes. Examination of cow manure and different substrate samples offers insights into their composition, encompassing total solids, C/N ratio, and pH. Shredded raw wastes were wet-fed into the digester at a 1:1 waste/water ratio. Cumulative production of biogas and the methane fraction were monitored. The maximum cumulative biogas production per kg of waste was observed for LCF (73.5 L/kgWW), followed by FW (53 L/kgWW) and PW (37 L/kgWW). The maxium methane percentage occurred on the 7th to 8th day, with FW displaying the highest methane percentage (72%), trailed by LCF (54.6%) and PW (56%).
A Statement of Novelty
The novelty of this study lies in its multifaceted approach towards enhancing biogas production through mono-digestion of various organic waste materials. By focusing on the comparative analysis of these waste substrates in a controlled laboratory setting, using a simplified and efficiently designed floating drum digester, this research aims to shed light on their individual suitability for anaerobic digestion. Furthermore, the exploration extends to designing and deploying small-scale, decentralized anaerobic digestion systems tailored specifically for localized energy and waste management solutions, particularly beneficial in rural or off-grid areas. Through this integrated investigation, this study gives a comprehensive understanding of mono-digestion's contribution to biogas production and its implications for sustainable waste management practices.
RETRACTED: The Relationship between the Attitudes of Vocational School of Health Services' Students towards Elderly People and their Compassionate Communication Levels
Authors: Aydin Şafak , Çiftçi Meltem Çapar
Published: April 2024

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Humoral immune response characteristics of the susceptible populations after the infection of SARS-CoV-2 BA.5 strain
Authors: Zhang Huan , Ouyang Shi , Li Zhuolin , Jiang Yushan , Peng Tingting , Xi Chang , Zhang Bao , Wu Bo , Ouyang Fen , Li Baisheng , Zhao Wei , Shen Chenguang
Published: April 2024

This study compared the humoral immune characteristics of children, elderly people, pregnant women, and adults infected with BA.5 and XBB strains in Guangzhou, China. It was found that binding and neutralizing antibodies the titers against distinct SARS-CoV-2 strains were low in the acute-phase sera of BA.5 infected patients, while the corresponding titers were significantly increased in the convalescent phase, the antibody titers against the Wuhan strain were the highest. Regardless of whether they were vaccinated, BA.5 infection did not induce high neutralizing antibodies against XBB. During the recovery phase, the titers of antiviral antibodies in the vaccinated population are more robust than those in the unvaccinated population. For BA.5 infections, the specific binding and neutralizing antibody titers in the children group were lower compared to other population groups. In the convalescence period of the disease, the titers of neutralizing antibodies against Wuhan, BA.5 and XBB strains induced by BA.5 infections are significantly correlated in pairs. XBB can induce a broader and balanced antiviral humoral immune response than BA.5 as a first-time infected strain. This finding can provide a reference for the judgment of the future epidemic law of SARS-CoV-2, and provide a scientific basis for developing novel COVID-19 vaccines, especially for discovering customized vaccines and immune strategies for different populations.
Modeling and Evaluating Passenger Evacuation and Risk in Blended Wing Body Aircraft Using Continuous Displacement Agents
Authors: Chen Kun , Wang Xiaotian , Li Pengfei , Xie Jiang
Published: April 2024

In the aviation industry, ensuring efficient emergency evacuation procedures remains paramount for passenger safety. This research endeavors to investigate the evacuation efficacy of Blended Wing Body (BWB) aircraft, evaluating their operational efficiency and practicality during emergency situations through the development of a continuous displacement field evacuation model compliant with airworthiness standards. Twelve carefully constructed experiments were conducted to refine the simulation model, enabling a comprehensive evaluation of BWB aircraft evacuation performance across diverse scenarios. The findings suggest commendable evacuation performance of BWB aircraft, underscored by the significant impact of accurate crew guidance on evacuation efficiency. Furthermore, a positive correlation between Operational Performance Standards (OPS) values and evacuation duration underscores the pivotal role of evacuation protocols. Notably, BWB aircraft necessitate special consideration for scenarios involving inaccessible rear exits, unlike conventional aircraft. This study not only illuminates the strengths and limitations of BWB aircraft evacuation protocols but also furnishes actionable insights for regulatory bodies, aircraft manufacturers, and airlines to enhance emergency readiness and passenger safety.
Effects of exogenous calcium and calcium inhibitor on physiological characteristics of winter rape (Brassica rapa) under low temperature stress
Authors: Wu Junyan , Pan Qiaowen , Muhammad Fahim Abbas , Zhang Lulu , Liu Lijun , Yang Gang , Wang Wangtian , Pu Yuanyuan , Fang Yan , Ma Li , Sun Wancang
Published: April 2024

Low temperature is one of the environmental factors that restrict the growth and geographical distribution of brassica. To investigate the effects of exogenous calcium and calcium inhibitors on the ability of winter rapeseed (Brassica rapa L.) to withstand low temperatures, and its effect on physiological characteristics we used a strong cold-resistant Longyou 7 (L7) and a weak cold-resistant Longyou 99 (L99) cultivar. The seedlings were treated with CaCl2 (20 mmol·L-1) and the calcium inhibitor LaCl3 (10 mmol·L-1) at 0 h, 6 h, 12 h, 24 h and 48 h, the Ca2+ flux and Ca2+ concentration in the roots after 12 h and 24 h of treatment were analyzed, and results after low-temperature treatment, L99 showed Ca2+ efflux with a rate of 30.21 pmol‧cm-2‧s-1, whereas L7 briefly showed efflux then returned to influx. Moreover. our findings illustrate that under low-temperature conditions, the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), and catalase (CAT) were increased by both CK and exogenous CaCl2 treatments. The contents of soluble protein (SP) and proline (Pro) were increased, while the contents of malondialdehyde (MDA) were decreased, resulting in reduced membrane lipid peroxidation. But enzyme activity decreased and MDA content increased following treatment with exogenous LaCl3. The rate of Ca2+ flow showed a higher uptake in L7 roots compared with L99. Calcium ion content in root showed a decrease in ion content in both cultivars after CaCl2 treatment. The results of RNA-seq data revealed that the genes that are differentially expressed in response to low temperatures, hormones, photosystem II, chloroplasts, DNA replication, ribosomal RNA processing, and translation were significantly enriched. This study found significant expression of genes related to cellular signal transduction (MAPK signaling pathway) and material metabolism (nitrogen metabolism, glycerol ester metabolism). The analysis of MAPK signaling pathway and genes in two modules led to the screening of 8 candidate genes related to the regulation of root growth, development and signal transduction.
National assessment of regional sustainability across the United States
Authors: Chapman Eric , Carter Maddison , Harvey Jada , Hatch Ashley , Lucero Clara , Rogers Lauren
Published: April 2024

Industrial agriculture, climate change, biodiversity loss, global conflict, and increasing inequality undermine the life-supporting services provided by our planet. Recently, the global community has started developing frameworks aimed at averting a climate catastrophe. Global agreements are undoubtedly instrumental in providing humanity with a roadmap for sustainable transformation, but policies to affect national and regional change are needed. Here, we argue that regional sustainable transformation is an actionable way to work toward global sustainability. We used the Doughnut Model (DM) and compiled a database of 8 ecological ceiling metrics and 12 social foundation metrics to assess regional sustainability across 32 metro areas and 180 counties in the United States representing roughly 35% of the US population. Using targeted keywords, we reviewed county-level websites to assess to what extent urban and rural counties collaborate on regional sustainable transformation. Finally, we provide two case studies of regional sustainable transformation across urban and rural regions. We found that generally urban areas had lower social foundation deficits (6 of 12 metrics) and higher ecological ceiling overshoot (3 of 8 metrics) compared to rural areas. We also found low levels (16 out of 180 counties) of cross county collaboration between urban and rural counties for sustainability transformation. Disparities across and between urban and rural areas highlight the potential for cross county collaborative programming to increase regional sustainability. We end with a call for increased private and public funding to develop and maintain programs focused on sustainable transformation and increased cross-county collaboration between urban and rural areas.
The complete genome and phylogenetic relatedness of a newly discovered fusagra-like virus infecting Carica papaya in Ecuador
Authors: Cornejo-Franco Juan F. , Reyes-Proaño Edison , Alvarez-Quinto Robert A. , Flores Francisco J. , quito-avila diego fernando
Published: April 2024

A new fusagra-like virus infecting papaya (Carica papaya L.) was genetically characterized. The genome of the virus, provisionally named ‘papaya sticky fruit-associated virus (PSFaV)’, comprises a single double-stranded RNA molecule of 9,199 nucleotides (nt) containing two discontinuous open reading frames. Pairwise sequence comparisons based on complete RNA-dependent-RNA-polymerase (RdRp) sequences revealed identities of 79.4% and 83.3% at the nt and amino acid (aa) levels, respectively, with babaco meleira-like virus (BabMelV), an uncharacterized virus sequence discovered in babaco (Vasconcellea x heilbornii) in Ecuador. Additional plant-associated viruses with sequence identities in the 50% range included papaya meleira virus (PMeV) isolates from Brazil. Phylogenetic analysis based on the amino acid sequences of the capsid protein (CP), RdRp, and CP-RdRp fusion protein genes placed PSFaV in a group within a well-supported clade, which shares a recent ancestor with Sclerotium rolfsii RNA virus 2 and Phlebiopsis gigantea mycovirus dsRNA 2, two fungi-associated fusagraviruses. Genomic features and phylogenetic relatedness suggest that PSFaV, along with its closest relative BabMelV, represent a novel plant-associated virus classified within the proposed fusagraviridae family.
Passive Control of Shock-Wave/Turbulent Boundary-Layer Interaction Using Spanwise Heterogeneous Roughness
Authors: Wu Wencan , Laguarda Luis , Modesti Davide , Hickel Stefan
Published: April 2024

A novel passive flow-control method for shock-wave/turbulent boundary-layer interactions (STBLI) is investigated. The method relies on a structured roughness pattern constituted by streamwise-aligned ridges. Its effectiveness is assessed with wall-resolved large-eddy simulations of the interaction of a Mach 2 turbulent boundary layer flow with an oblique impinging shock with shock angle 40°. The structured roughness pattern, which is fully resolved by a cut-cell based immersed boundary method, covers the entire computational domain. Results show that this rough surface induces large-scale secondary streamwise vortices, which energize the boundary layer by transporting high-speed fluid closer to the wall. A parametric study is performed to investigate the effect of the spacing between the ridges. This investigation is further substantiated through spectral analysis and sparsity-promoting dynamic mode decomposition. We find that ridges with small spacing effectively mitigate the low-frequency unsteadiness of STBLI and slightly reduce total-pressure losses.
Advancing Clinical Decision-Making: Utilizing Machine Learning to Predict Postoperative Stroke Following Craniotomy
Authors: Lu Tianyou , Huang Qin , Luo Tongsen , Lu Yaxin , Li Liping , Cai Jun , Hei Ziqing , Chen Chaojin
Published: April 2024

Objection:
Postoperative stroke (PS) represents a significant and grave complication, which often remains challenging to detect until clear clinical symptoms emerge. The early identification of populations at high risk for perioperative stroke is essential for enabling timely intervention and enhancing postoperative outcomes. This study seeks to employ machine learning (ML) techniques to create a predictive model for PS following elective craniotomy.
Methods
This study encompassed a total of 1,349 cases that underwent elective craniotomy between January 2013 and August 2021. Perioperative data, encompassing demographics, etiology, laboratory results, comorbidities, and medications, were utilized to construct predictive models. Nine distinct machine learning models were developed for the prediction of postoperative stroke (PS) and assessed based on the area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUC), along with sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy metrics.
Results
Among the 1,349 patients included in the study, 137 cases (10.2%) were diagnosed with postoperative stroke (PS), which was associated with a worse prognosis. Of the nine machine learning prediction models evaluated, the logistic regression (LR) model exhibited superior performance, as indicated by an area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUC) value of 0.741 (0.64–0.85), and competitive performance metrics, including an accuracy of 0.668, sensitivity of 0.650, and specificity of 0.670. Notably, feature importance analysis identified "preoperative albumin," "ASA classification," and "preoperative hemoglobin" as the top three factors contributing to the prediction of PS.
Conclusion
Our study successfully developed a real-time and easily accessible parameter requiring LR-based PS prediction model for post-elective craniotomy patients.
How does social exclusion lead to emerging adult relational aggression? Potential Mechanisms of Action of Relative Deprivation and Hostile Attribution Bias
Authors: Tong Lifang , Jiang Yongzhi , Cao Wenjiao , Wang Huizhe
Published: April 2024

Background
Relational aggression, as a specific type of aggression in social relationships in emerging adulthood, is associated with multiple forms of physical and psychological disorders. To date, there has been a lack of systematic and in-depth research on the mechanisms underlying the emergence of relational aggression. The present study aimed to explore the effects of social exclusion on relational aggression and the potential role played by relative deprivation and hostile attributional bias in the relationship between the two.
Methods
A self-report questionnaire on social exclusion, relational aggression, relative deprivation, and hostile attributional bias was administered to 1970 Chinese students between the ages of 18 and 25 years using relevant scales.
Results
There were significant positive correlations between social exclusion, relational aggression, relative deprivation, and hostile attributional bias; relative deprivation mediated the relationship between social exclusion and relational aggression; and hostile attributional bias played a significant moderating role in the direct pathway between social exclusion and relational aggression. Specifically, high hostile attributional bias exacerbated the effect of social exclusion on relational aggression, whereas low hostile attributional bias weakened this mechanism of influence.
Conclusions
This study explored the mechanisms that produce relational aggression in emerging adulthood and found that social exclusion not only directly affects relational aggression but also indirectly affects relational aggression through feelings of relative deprivation. Hostile attributional bias largely moderated the effects of social exclusion on relational aggression. The results of this study not only expand the research perspectives on relational aggression but also provide a theoretical basis for the effective explanation, prevention, and intervention of malignant interpersonal relationships.