bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Mutation of the LRG1 Rho-GAP gene is responsible for the hyper branching C-variant phenotype in the Quorn mycoprotein fungus Fusarium venenatum A3/5
Authors: Connell John , Bates Helen J. , Geoghegan Ivey , Wilson Fiona , Harrison Richard J. , Price R. Jordan 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Quorn mycoprotein, a protein-rich meat alternative, is produced through large-scale fermentation of the fungus Fusarium venenatum. However, a major challenge during F. venenatum fermentation is the consistent appearance of mutants called colonial variants (C-variants). These C-variants have a highly branched morphology, which ultimately lead to a less desirable final product and early termination of the fermentation process. This study aimed to identify the genetic mutations responsible for C-variant morphology.
Results
We first isolated both C-variant and wild-type strains from commercial fermentation samples and characterised radial growth rates on solid media. Whole genome sequencing facilitated the identification of mutations in a gene called jg4843 in 11 out of 12 C-variant isolates, which was not observed in the wild-type isolates. The jg4843 gene was identified as the ortholog of LRG1, a Rho-GTPase activating protein that regulates the Rho1 signalling pathway affecting fungal growth.
Notably, the mutations in jg4843 were primarily located in the RhoGAP domain responsible for LRG1 activity. To confirm the role of these mutations, we used CRISPR/Cas9-mediated homology-directed recombination to introduce the C-variant mutations into the wild-type isolate, which successfully recapitulated the characteristic C-variant morphology.
Conclusions
This study identified mutations in the LRG1 ortholog jg4843 as the genetic cause of C-variant morphology in commercial fermentation F. venenatum isolates. Understanding this genetic basis paves the way for developing strategies to prevent C-variants arising, potentially leading to more efficient and sustainable production of Quorn mycoprotein.
RSGM: A Multimodal Image Matching Scheme Guided by Regional Semantics
Authors: Jin Fangwei , Liao Yun , Liu Junhui , Qian Xu , Li YunPeng , Teng RongRui , Hu ZongXiao , Duan Qing 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Multimodal image feature matching technology plays an important role in computer vision research, and a lot of work has been done to improve the matching performance. However, existing matching methods lack sufficient extraction of descriptor information and clear semantic guidance during the matching process. Most descriptors only contain pixel information, neglecting region-based and inter-image information. While some approaches attempt to incorporate semantic information into descriptors, they do not utilize this information during the actual matching stage, leading to potential incorrect matches when similar object types are present in the images. In order to solve these problems, We put forward a new multimodal local image feature matching method that includes a novel descriptor extraction method and a new matching scheme. During the feature extraction and fusion stage, similarity information, regional semantic information of image pairs, as well as neighboring pixel information of corresponding match points from different images are fused to enrich the feature descriptors. In the matching stage, a method guided by regional semantic information(RSGM) is employed to enhance the overall matching effect. Finally, extensive experiments demonstrate that RSGM performs exceptionally well on multimodal image datasets. The code for RSGM is available at: https://github.com/LiaoYun0x0/RSGM.
Perceptions of voluntary workers in cancer organisations on the knowledge of secondary breast cancer symptoms , healthcare communication and diagnostic referral pathways among the patients they support in Northern Ireland
Authors: Boma Charity Ibiyekaribo , Flannagan Carrie , Warwick Jacque 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background: In secondary breast cancer (SBC) cancer cells spread to other areas of the body and at this stage treatment is no longer curative. Studies show increase in SBC prevalence in the United Kingdom (UK) and also linked early detection to lower mortality rates and better prognosis. Studies have reflected that adequate healthcare communication can enhance early diagnosis and improve patients' quality of life.
Aim: Explore perceptions of voluntary workers in cancer organisations on knowledge of SBC symptoms, healthcare communication and diagnosis impact among patients they support in Northern Ireland (NI). Method: Descriptive exploratory approach using semi-structured interviews with a purposive sample of five voluntary workers from breast cancer organisations between June-August 2023. Data was analysed using thematic analysis to develop descriptive themes.
Results: Themes developed include: Lack of awareness and knowledge of SBC; Communication gap in breast cancer care provision; Impact of diagnosis; Gaps in SBC cancer care. Findings suggest limited support for SBC patients, healthcare communication is not optimal, and impacts patients' experiences and delayed diagnosis. Awareness of patients, public, HCPs is unclear and there are limited SBC nurses, support groups, information on SBC, limited access to clinical trials, and treatment options for SBC patients.
Conclusions: SBC awareness is limited in NI, therefore efforts to provide more information and better support for SBC patients through provision of more SBC nurses, support groups and accessibility to clinical trial can facilitate better experiences through their illness journey. HCPs training on person-centred communication can influence better outcomes for SBC patients.
Decoding Hotel Ratings: A Cultural and Developmental Lens on Traveler Behavior
Authors: Marukhlenko Daria , Lensky Artem , Feroz Gohar 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Using a large dataset of 545,000 reviews from 27,000 hotels, this study investigates how travelers’ nationalities influence hotel review ratings and their relationship with cultural dimensions and human development indicators. The presented analysis shows that hotel ratings can serve as predictors of components of the Human Development Index, with the Education Index showing the strongest association (adjusted R2 is 42.6%). The predictive power of hotel ratings was also compared to Hofstede’s dimensions in the context of predicting Human Development Index components.
In terms of Hofstede’s dimensions we discovered that ”Individualism vs Collectivism” and ”Long-Term Orientation” dimensions exhibit the strongest associations with hotel ratings (adjusted R2 is 44.9% and 30.1% correspondingly), though the study’s focus on European hotels may limit generalizability.
In terms of rating patterns, English-speaking countries and Israel use narrower score ranges with higher means (8.66±1.46), while predominantly Muslim countries employ wider ranges, resulting in lower means (7.96 ± 1.79). European and Asian countries generally fall between these extremes.
The paper concludes with practical implications of the presented findings to the tourist recommender systems.
Quantification of mechanical fields inside invasive cancer cells: Description of a new method using Digital Volume Correlation and Confocal Microscopy
Authors: Gangneux Aurélie , Gaboriau Aymerick , Caille Laetitia , Mesnil Marc , Bokam Prasanth , Vendeuvre Tanguy , Sebille Stéphane , Defamie Norah , Germaneau Arnaud 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Cell invasion process, which appears in the progression of tumors, such as glioblastoma, is highly dependent on cellular mobility. Cellular movement results from the interaction of chemical, biological and mechanical factors both inside and outside the invasive cancer cell. To identify and understand the relationship between these factors, it is necessary to quantify and visualise the extra- and intracellular kinematic fields during cell movement. This study proposes a new methodology for the experimental measurement of full kinematic fields inside cancer cells and the use of a digital twin simulation of the cell to obtain the stress and force fields. This approach combines confocal microscopy, Digital Volume Correlation (DVC), and the Finite Element Method (FEM) to achieve precise and comprehensive measurements. To demonstrate the efficiency of this methodology, highly invasive cells from human glioblastomas have been used as a model, and their mechanical behaviour on a substrate was studied over time during their development.
Development of fuzzy logic-based expert systems for optimizing TIG welding parameters of low carbon steel plates
Authors: Aloraier Abdulkareem , Ikpe Aniekan 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

The complex experimental procedure involved in TIG welding sequence, selection of ideal input parameters and further challenges during tensile testing to obtain the ultimate tensile strength (UTS) value of a given material may lead to inaccurate output depending on the experimental and test procedures. Moreover, while traditional optimization techniques which is sometimes based on trial and error, or prolonged experimental process may be time-consuming and costly, fuzzy logic-based expert systems offer a more effective solution to optimizing welding input variables for optimal output response. In this study, TIG welding input parameters derived from design of experiment for 20 weld runs were employed in welding AISI 1015 low carbon steel plate, and the welded samples were subjected to tensile testing to determine the UTS values. UTS of the control sample was obtained as 385 MPa, while UTS values of 409.670, 412.265, 410.256, 414.624, 415.563, 413.314, 411.432 and 408.306 MPa were obtained from the tensile test with corresponding welding input parameters (voltage, current, welding speed and gas flow rate, from weld runs No. 4, 5, 7, 8, 13, 14, 15 and 18. However, optimal UTS values of 407.923, 411.186, 408.874, 414.123, 415.116, 411.874, 409.702 and 406.827 MPa were obtained from the fuzzy logic optimization at the same No. of weld runs. Regression plot of the experimental and fuzzy logic predicted output response revealed R2 value of 0.9892 which is very close to 1, indicating the accuracy of the optimization sequence. This was further confirmed from a correlation plot which clearly indicated a strong positive correlation between the experimental and fuzzy optimized UTS values. The robust results of the study demonstrate the effectiveness and reliability of the fuzzy logic-based expert system in optimizing TIG welding parameters for low carbon steel plates.
Design and Application of Fluorescent Probes Based on Flavonoid Dyes for Cysteine Detection
Authors: Liu Jing , Cao Xiaorui , Liu Tiantian , Zhang Yang , Jiao Xiaomeng , Zhang Hongpeng , Bai Yinjuan 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

As an important reactive sulfur species, cysteine plays a crucial role in maintaining the body's redox homeostasis and regulating protein function. Its content in organisms can serve as signaling molecules to directly or indirectly detect certain diseases. Therefore, based on the Michael addition mechanism, five flavonoid fluorescent probes HFL1-5 were designed and synthesized to detect cysteine. Through specific descriptions of IR, 1H NMR, and HRMS experiments, the recognition mechanism of cysteine by HFL was studied, demonstrating that HFL1-5 could generate flavonol derivatives with strong fluorescence emission through addition-cyclization-removal. The probes were evaluated for sensitivity, stability, specificity, and cytotoxicity, and the reasons for the differences in response effects were explained based on their structures. Finally, the best performing HFL5 was selected for cell imaging experiments and successfully applied to the imaging of endogenous and exogenous cysteine in L929 cells. This study indicates that HFL has great potential for application in detecting cysteine.
Design and Application of Algae Light Sensing Circuit Based on Memristor
Authors: Sun Jingru , Ma Wenjing , Li Xiaosong , Sun Yichuang , Hong Qinghui , Zhang Jiliang 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Visual perception systems are of great significance in AI, robotics, and IoT. Despite the satisfactory results achieved by existing photography and camera equipment, issues such as high cost, slow sensing speed, complex structures, and high power consumption remain due to the limitations of their circuit structures. Over hundreds of millions of years of evolution, algae have developed a photosensitive system with a simple structure but high sensitivity and fast response speed. In recent years, significant progress has also been made in the study of algal photosensitivity. Inspired by the photosensitive system of algae, this paper presents an algal photoreceptors model and designs an algal light sensing circuit (ALSC) based on memristors. The ALSC mimics the photosensitive neurons of green algae to perceive optical intensity and accomplishes the high-speed conversion of light signals to spike signals. ALSC has characteristics like a simple structure, high robustness, high nonlinearity, and low power consumption. To evaluate the performance of the proposed ALSC, we implemented it in the spiking camera optic perception module. The simulation and experimental results indicate that, in comparison with the traditional spiking cameras, the structure of the spiking camera based on ALSC is simpler, the conversion speed is increased by 200\%, the power consumption is reduced by 50\%, and it has the characteristics of high robustness and sensitivity. In addition, the circuit structure of visual neurons has high universality. It can be applied to various sensor devices, including touch, smell, temperature, and others, which is significant for the manufacturing of new sensor technologies.
Integrative analysis of taurine metabolism-related genes prognostic signature with immunotherapy and identification of ABCB1 and GORASP1 as key genes in nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Feng Zhang , Yang Yuhang , Luo Wenqi , Li Jinqing , Xie Zhenlian , Zuo Long , Duan Meijiao , Zuo Dongzhi , MO Ruwei , Tang Xuejing , Yi Shijiang , He Xiaosong , Liu Fangxian , Ma Ning , He Feng 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background: Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a highly aggressive malignancy prevalent in Southeast Asia and Southern China, and is characterized by a lack of effective early diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. The 5-year survival rate of patients with advanced NPC remains dismally low (<40%). Therefore, the development of a novel predictive model for prognostic risk of NPC is of paramount importance.
Methods: We integrated data from the Genecards, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases to identify differentially expressed genes associated with taurine metabolism in NPC patients. Gene Ontology (GO) and KEGG analyses were conducted to investigate the underlying mechanisms. Subsequently, Cox regression and Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) regression analyses were performed to construct a taurine metabolism-related prognostic signature. Survival, medication sensitivity, and immunological microenvironment evaluations were performed to assess the prognostic utility of the model. Finally, immunohistochemistry (IHC) experiments were performed to validate the model’s prognostic reliability.
Results: Our prognostic model was based on three pivotal taurine metabolism-related genes (TMRGs) (ABCB1, GORASP1, and EZH2). Functional analysis revealed a strong association between TMRGs and miRNAs in cancer. Notably, increased risk scores correlated with worsening tumor malignancy and prognosis. Significant disparities in immune microenvironment, immune checkpoints, and drug sensitivity were observed between the high- and low-risk groups. The protein expression patterns of the selected genes in clinical NPC samples were validated using immunohistochemistry.
Conclusions: A taurine metabolism-related prognostic model for NPC was established based on three genes that effectively predicted the prognosis and response to immunotherapy in patients with NPC. This model offers the potential for improved NPC management.
Aboveground biomass in smallholder Eucalyptus plantations throughout stand rotation in Madagascar: influence of low starter fertilization and weed competition
Authors: Ramanandraibe Iaviantsoa , Bordron Bruno , Sarron Julien , Razafindrakoto Fenitra , Epron Daniel , Rasoarinaivo Angelina , Razafimbelo Tantely Maminiaina , Bouillet Jean-Pierre 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Smallholder Eucalyptus plantations (EP) in Madagascar Central Highlands (MCH) address substantial fuelwood demand and reduce pressure on natural forests. However, their sustainability is challenged by low soil fertility and inadequate management. While fertilization increases tree growth, high mineral fertilizer costs limit its use by smallholder farmers. Both biomass estimating equation and impact of fertilization on smallholder EP in MCH remain poorly documented. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of low starter mineral fertilization (15 kg.ha-1 N, 12 kg.ha-1 P, and 17 kg.ha-1 K) and weed competition on smallholder Eucalyptus robusta growth and aboveground biomass (AGB) while providing allometric equations for AGB estimation. Dendrometric data were collected from six stands aged 2 to 6 years, with fertilized and non-fertilized parts. AGB of 16 trees per stand (8 fertilized, 8 non-fertilized) were destructively measured. AGB of trees were estimated by regression based on tree circumference, height and their combinations. The results indicated circumference as the best single variable predictor (R2 > 0.90) for all tree compartments and stands Fertilization significantly improved global tree survival by 7% and increased height by 3.1 m and circumference by 8.3 cm in 6-year-old stands AGB per hectare globally doubled with fertilization, reaching 55.3 Mg.ha-1at 6 yo compared to 29.2 Mg.ha-1 in non-fertilized plots. Weed cover and biomass had significant negative linear relationships with AGB and survival rate. This study provides robust allometric equations for biomass estimation and highlights that even low fertilizer application combined with effective weed control can significantly enhance AGB production in smallholder EP.
Solid-phase pyrolysis synthesis of nitrogen-doped carbon dots as logic-gate fluorescent probes for dual detection of Cu²⁺ and glutathione
Authors: Yao Zhuoru , Wang Cunjin , Ma Zixin , Zhang Jing , Zhao Xiaoliang , Zhang Weijie , Shi Huanxian 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

This study introduces the synthesis of nitrogen-doped carbon dots (N-L-Ser-CDs) from L-serine and urea through a straightforward and economical one-step solid-phase pyrolysis process. The incorporation of nitrogen into the carbon dots resulted in a remarkable 27.6-fold increase in fluorescence intensity, featuring a peak emission at 405 nm when excited at 330 nm and a significant fluorescence quantum yield of 22.5%. These N-L-Ser-CDs displayed a specific binding affinity for Cu2+, leading to a pronounced fluorescence quenching effect. However, upon interaction with glutathione (GSH), the fluorescence of the N-L-Ser-CDs + Cu2+ complex was selectively restored. This restoration was attributed to the displacement of Cu2+ from the surface of the N-L-Ser-CDs due to the strong interaction between GSH and Cu2+. The mechanism underlying this fluorescence quenching was elucidated as an electron transfer process from the excited state of the N-L-Ser-CDs to Cu2+. Additionally, the sensor developed in this study exhibited a linear detection range of 0–90 µM for Cu2+ with a detection limit of 3 µM, and a linear detection range of 0-120 µM with a detection limit of 3 µM for GSH. By integrating the detection capabilities for both Cu2+ and GSH, a successful logic-gated fluorescent probe was developed. Most importantly, this proposed method offers simplicity, affordability, and ease of use, while also showing potential for practical GSH detection in real urine samples.
Comparative effects of selenium and N-Acetyl cysteine on oxidative stress in Nω-Nitro-L-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride (L-NAME) induced preeclamptic wistar albino rats
Authors: Yelleti Geethika , Aroor Annayya Rao , Shenoy Revathi P , karmakar Abhibroto , Rao Ashwini V , Lewis Cheryl Rhea , Asok Arjun , Maripini Nihaal , Biswas Monalisa , Varier Veena , Roy Arpita , BS Varashree 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Preeclampsia (PE) is a hypertensive disorder in pregnancy affecting multiple organ systems, leading to significant maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. While the exact mechanisms remain unclear, oxidative stress and inflammatory responses are key factors. This study hypothesized that these factors contribute to pathogenesis of preeclampsia, and that selenium and N-acetylcysteine (NAC) could mitigate these effects.
Methods: Twenty-four female Wistar rats were divided equally into four groups. Group I served as controls, while Groups II, III, and IV received Nω-Nitro-L-arginine methyl aster hydrochloride (L-NAME) to induce hypertension from day 4 to 20 ofgestation. Additionally, Group III received selenium (240 μg/kg/day) and Group IV received NAC (160 mg/kg). On day 20, blood and urine samples were collected to measure malondialdehyde (MDA) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels, as markers of oxidative stress and inflammation, respectively. Serial blood pressure measurements were recorded for all the group.
Results: Selenium improved L-NAME-induced hypertension and proteinuria and significantly reduced the inflammatory response but had little effect on oxidative stress. NAC did not lower blood pressure but significantly reduced proteinuria, IL-6 levels, and oxidative stress.
Conclusions: These findings suggest that selenium and NAC have distinct protective roles, potentially offering combined benefits for cardiovascular and kidney health in hypertensive pregnancies.
Overexpression of MIR-302C-3P Leads to Apoptosis in Human Renal Mesangial Cells
Authors: Huang Wentao , Hao Baojun , Chen Yongqiang , Lin Jinyan , Wu Ting-Ting , Liu Shiwen , Xu Dan , Liang Huixin , Lin Ying , Huang Yingzhen , Wang Qun , Le Jiong , Qian Yi , Qin Shulan 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Objective: The apoptosis of glomerular mesangial cells is closely related to the occurrence and development of diabetic nephropathy (DN). However, the mechanism remains unclear. In the present study, we found that the high-glucose cultures induced the upregulation of the miRNA-302c-3p. This study aimed to investigate the effects of over expression of miR-302c-3p on human glomerular mesangial cells (HRMCs).
Materials and Methods: HRMCs were cultured in vitro and divided into 2 groups: ①: siRNA-NC group, ② siRNA-TIMP3 group. The miR-302c-3p expression was up-regulated in HRMCs by using miR-302c-3p mimic. We measured the expression of MDA, SOD, CAT, and ROS to examine the oxidative stress of cells. The apoptosis rate of cells was determined by flow cytometry, and the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) was examined by the JC-1 detection kit. Real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to detect the relative expression of p53 and Survivin. Protein expression of Bcl-2, BAX, caspase-3, p27, Apaf-1, Cytochrome C, and β-actin was analyzed by Western blot.
Results: Compared with the control group, we found that the overexpression of miR-302c-3p significantly increased the oxidative stress and apoptosis on HRMCs. The level of p53 was significantly increased (p<0.01), and the level of Survivin was reduced significantly (p<0.05) in the miR-302c-3p mimic group. Western blot results showed that the expression of BAX, p27, Apaf-1 and Cytochrome C was significantly up-regulated; the expression of Bcl-2 was significantly down-regulated in the HRMCs in miR-302c-3p mimic group.
Conclusions: These findings indicated that overexpression of miR-302c-3p induced the apoptosis of HRMCs, and might be associated with the oxidative stress.