bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Spatiotemporal dynamics of endophytic fungal diversity in the roots of Amomum villosum Lour
Authors: Li Xiao-Gang , You Xiao-Xu , Zhang Xing-Kai , Gu Wen , Yang Pei , He Sen , Yu Jie , Cao Guan-Hua 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the colonization and diversity of endophytic fungi in Amomum villosum roots under different planting locations and growth ages and to analyze the fungal composition. In this study, we performed Illumina-based ITS rDNA sequencing to investigate the effects of growth ages, and sample plots on the rhizosphere fungi of A. villosum. The results of the colonization analysis showed that arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and dark septate endophytes (DSEs) widely colonized the roots of A. villosum, but the colonization abundance no longer increased significantly with increasing growth age. Glomus was the dominant AMF, and Exophiala, Cladosporium and Cladophialophora were the dominant DSEs. Phoma, Acremonium, Myrothecium and Trichoderma were supposed to be the dominant beneficial fungi. Alpha and beta diversity showed that the diversity, abundance and community composition of root fungi were not significantly correlated with growth ages but were affected by planting locations. Taken together, the diversity and abundance of fungal communities in the roots differed significantly by planting location, and some were affected by the growth ages of A. villosum. DSEs were considered to be dominant beneficial microorganisms and were largely responsible for the growth and development of A. villosum, weakening continuous cropping obstacles.
NEK2 is a potential pan-cancer biomarker and immunotherapy target
Authors: Zhang Lanyue , Li Yang , Liao Wenxin , Liu Tingting , Deng Juexiao , Shen Fujin 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background.
NEK2 is a member of the NEKs family and plays an important role in cell mitosis. Increasing evidence suggests that NEK2 is associated with the development of multiple tumors, but systematic studies of NEK2 in cancer are still lacking. Therefore, we evaluated the prognostic value of NEK2 in 33 cancers to elucidate the potential function of NEK2 in pan-cancers.
Methods.
We explored the role of NEK2 in pan-cancers using The Cancer Genome Atlas(TCGA)and Genotype-tissue expression༈GTEx༉database, and we also analyzed the association between NEK2 pan-cancers gene expression, protein expression, tumor microenvironment༈TME), and drug sensitivity through various software and web platforms such as R, CCLE, the Human protein atlas༈HPA༉, cBioPortal, CancerSEA and GEPIA 2. 0.We also conducted in vitro experiments to preliminarily verify the function of NEK2 in cervical cancer.
Results.
NEK2 is overexpressed in almost all tumors, and mutation of NEK2 are associated with a poorer tumor prognosis. In addition, the correlation between NEK2 and immune features such as immune cell infiltration, immune checkpoint genes, tumor mutational burden(TMB), Microsatellite instability(MSI) etc. suggest that NEK2 could potentially be applied in the immunotherapy of tumors.
Conclusion.
NEK2 may be a potential pan-cancer biomarker and immunotherapeutic target for improving the efficacy of tumor therapy.
Synergistic Fiber Hybridization: Unlocking Superior Mechanical Performance in Cementitious Composites
Authors: Selvan Karthigai , Ismail Abdul Aleem Mohamed , Rathinavel Nidhya 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

This study investigates the effects of various fibers and their combinations on the mechanical properties of fiber-reinforced cementitious composites (FRCC). Sixteen distinct mix designs were prepared, each incorporating different types and proportions of fibers, Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA), Polypropylene (PP), Basalt, and Banana fibers, while maintaining a consistent cement-to-sand ratio of 25% to 75%. The objective was to evaluate how these fibers influence the compressive, flexural, and tensile strengths of the FRCC. The results revealed significant variations in mechanical properties based on fiber type and content. Mixes containing PVA and Basalt fibers demonstrated superior compressive strength, flexural strength, and tensile strength compared to those with other fibers. Notably, hybrid fiber combinations, such as PVA and Basalt or PVA and PP, showed enhanced mechanical performance, indicating the synergistic benefits of combining different fiber types. In contrast, Banana fibers alone were less effective in improving mechanical properties but contributed positively when combined with synthetic fibers. The study highlights the potential of fiber hybridization in optimizing the performance of cementitious composites. The strategic use of PVA and Basalt fibers, both individually and in combination, provides a promising approach for developing high-strength, durable FRCC suitable for diverse construction applications. These findings offer valuable insights for future research and the development of advanced composite materials with tailored mechanical properties.
Response Characteristics of Potassium Availability in Red Soil with Different Parental Materials to Different Fertilization Practices
Authors: Liu Shujun , Li Yazhen , Hu Dandan , Han Tianfu , Huang Jing , Li Hao , liu kailou 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background and aims:
Red soil is one of the main soil types in southern China, but potassium (K) availability varies greatly among red soils developed from different parental materials. The objective was to provide precise guidance for efficiently utilizing potassium resources in red soil regions.
Methods
This study selected red soils developed from three different parental materials, which include quaternary red clay (QRC), granite (GRA), and purple sand shale (PSS) in red soil regions. A pot experiment was conducted with varying practices of fertilization, including straw mulching (S), nitrogen-phosphorus-K fertilizer application (NPK), nitrogen-phosphorus-K fertilizer application with straw mulching (S + NPK), livestock manure application with straw mulching (S + M), and no fertilizer application (CK). Then, crop biomass, K uptake, exchangeable K (EK)and non-exchangeable K (NEK) were analyzed, meanwhile, the correlation between soil EK, NEK and crop K uptake were discussed.
Results
The results showed that compared to CK, S, NPK, S + NPK, and S + M treatments significantly increased maize biomass and K uptake on red soils developed from QRC, GRA, and PSS, with increases ranging from 27.55–412.76% and 28.74–340.00%, respectively. Compared to CK, the different fertilization practices resulted in increases of 25.00–119.05% and 4.76–104.20% in exchangeable K (EK)and non-exchangeable K (NEK), respectively. However, there were differences among different parental materials. Both QRC and PSS showed a significant trend of higher EK content in the S + NPK treatment, while on GRA, the NPK, S + NPK, and S + M treatments all showed a significant trend of higher EK content. Further research revealed a significant positive correlation between EK, NEK, and crop K uptake on red soils developed from GRA and PSS. In contrast, no significant relationship was observed on red soils developed from QRC.
Conclusion
s On red soils developed from different parental materials, the effectiveness of fertilization practices such as straw mulching, chemical fertilizer, and organic manure varied greatly in increasing maize biomass, K uptake, EK, and NEK. Additionally, the soil K fertility level of different parental materials significantly influenced the quantitative relationship between EK, NEK, and crop K uptake.
Radon-thoron exhalation and emanation determinations from mylonitic rock samples collected in north Abu Rusheid, Egypt
Authors: Sakr Sara , Sahoo Sarata Kumar , Inoue Kazumasa , Saleh Gehad Mohamed , Kamar Mohamed SalEMs , Feky Mohamed Galal El , Taher Atef El , Janik Miroslaw 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Mylonitic rocks in north Abu Rusheid, Egypt are rich in naturally occurring radioactive materials (NORMs), including uranium mineralization. These rocks are significant sources of indoor radon (Rn) and thoron (Tn) for the general public if used as building materials. They are occupational exposure sources of Rn and Tn for mine workers. Determination of Rn and Tn exhalation and emanation from mylonitic rocks is necessary to accurately assess the risk of exposure to natural ionizing radiation. In the present study, Rn and Tn mass exhalation rate (EX) and emanation fraction (EM) were determined simultaneously, based on the activity concentrations of 226Ra and 232Th, in 27 mylonitic rock samples collected from three trenches (TCHA, TCHB, and TCHC) in north Abu Rusheid. The mean Rn EX values of TCHA, TCHB, and TCHC were 0.73 ± 0.14, 0.49 ± 0.19, and 0.66 ± 0.38 Bq/kg·h, respectively; and the corresponding mean Rn EM values were 0.105 ± 0.023, 0.091 ± 0.033 and 0.111 ± 0.038, respectively. The mean Tn EX values of TCHA, TCHB, and TCHC were 1626 ± 346, 1098 ± 539, and 1851 ± 1733, respectively; and the corresponding mean Tn EM values were 0.042 ± 0.004, 0.034 ± 0.012, and 0.047 ± 0.020, respectively. Correlations of Rn EX and EM with 226Ra activity concentration, Tn EX, and EM with 232Th activity concentration, and 226Ra activity concentration with 232Th activity concentration were determined.
Knowledge, Attitude and Acceptance regarding Bone marrow transplantation in caregivers of beta-thalassemia major patients
Authors: Jayaram Purva Reddy , Devadas Sahana , Jain Paridhi , C Gayathri Devi 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Objective Knowledge, Attitude and Acceptance regarding Bone marrow transplantation in caregivers of beta-thalassemia major patientsMethods A cross-sectional study was conducted among the caregivers of pediatric patients with beta thalassemia major in blood transfusion centres in Bangalore, India. Their knowledge, attitude and acceptance regarding bone marrow transplantation was assessed using a validated questionnaire. The study aimed to identify factors that influence care givers’ decision about bone marrow transplantation.Results The knowledge, attitude and acceptance of the caregivers towards bone marrow transplantation is shown to depend on gender, education and socio-economic status. The results of this study reveal that male caregivers generally exhibited higher levels of knowledge and had a better attitude towards it as compared to their female counterparts. Higher education and socio-economic status were associated with better knowledge, more favourable attitudes and a higher acceptance towards the procedure as well.
Consumption Based Responsibility for GlobalWarming and the Distribution of Impacts of SwissClimate Policy
Authors: Landis Florian 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Different consumption patterns have been linked to different levels of responsibility forcurrent greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and it is well established that the affluent are re-sponsible for higher levels of global ghg emission than are the poor. Here I couple a lifecycle assessment of consumer goods with household survey data about consumption pat-terns to arrive at household level responsibility for global ghg emissions by consumptioncategory. This allows me to provide a detailed analysis of how different consumption cat-egories contribute to this responisibility. From this, I offer some insights into how thisinformation can be used for the design of policies that create equitable outcomes.
I conclude that the distributional impacts of ghg pricing with revenue recycling willremain unproblematic as climate policy continues to cover more ghgs from more regions.If it is desired that high-income households make a bigger contribution to the emissionsreduction effort than others, focusing climate policy on transport (high confidence), eatingout, and clothing (both with lower confidence) may provide avenues for achieving that.This is the case, since responsibility for ghg emissions from these consumption categoriesincreases faster with income than it does for other goods.
Multi-objective particle swarm optimization with integrated fireworks algorithm and size double archiving
Authors: Zhang Yansong , Liu Yanmin , Zhang Xiaoyan , Song Qian , Ouyang Aijia , Yang Jie 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

The multi-objective particle swarm optimization (MOPSO) is an optimization technique that mimics the foraging behavior of birds to solve difficult optimization problems. It is based on the theory of population intelligence.MOPSO is well known for its strong global search capability, which efficiently locates solutions that are close to the global optimum across a wide search domain. However, similar to many other optimization algorithms, the fast convergence property of MOPSO can occasionally lead to the population entering the local optimum too soon, obstructing researchers from investigating more efficient solutions. To address this challenge, the study proposes a novel framework that integrates the Fireworks Algorithm (FA) into MOPSO and establishes a size-double archiving mechanism to maintain population diversity. By preventing population homogenization, this mechanism promotes the retention of better solutions. Additionally, by fusing evolutionary data analysis with particle information, the study offers new individual optimal choices and adaptive parameter tuning to improve the algorithm's robustness and adaptability and better manage the complexity of multi-objective optimization problems (MOPs). The suggested algorithm is compared with several existing MOPSOs and multi-objective evolutionary algorithms (MOEAs) in simulation experiments. Standard test problems like ZDT, UF, and DTLZ are used in the experiments. The new algorithm performs exceptionally well in terms of improving convergence and population diversity, as well as demonstrating significant competitiveness for solving MOPs. Each algorithm's performance is thoroughly evaluated using the Friedman rank test.
Positive Association Between Blood Trihalomethane Concentrations and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Cross-Sectional Study (NHANES)
Authors: Zhou Size , Qian Songwei , Yu Bowen , Shen Xiaofeng , Zhao Ye , Guo Xiaoling , Ji Weiping 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background: Trihalomethanes (THMs) is a common byproduct of disinfection that has been shown to be hepatotoxic. However, the relationship between THMs and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) remains unclear.
Methods: This study selected 9475 adults from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 1999 to 2012, and the concentrations of various THMs including chloroform (TCM), bromodichloromethane (BDCM), dibromochloromethane (DBCM), and bromoform (TBM) in their blood were analyzed. NAFLD was identified based on the levels of the fatty liver index (FLI), Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT), and Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST).
Results: In the multiple logistic regression model, we found TBM, Br-THM and TTHM concentrations were significantly positively correlated with NAFLD, The odds ratios (ORs) were 1.27 (95% CI 1.07-1.50), 1.19 (95% CI 1.01-1.40), and 1.27 (95% CI 1.07-1.52), respectively, indicating the risk of NAFLD was on the rise with the increase of these THM concentrations. Although the ORs of blood TCM and Cl-THM concentrations were not significant, there was a trend suggesting an increased risk of NAFLD with the increase of their concentrations.
Conclusion: This study suggested that THMs exposure is associated with NAFLD in the USA population, and more prospective studies are still needed to confirm this finding and elucidate the underlying mechanisms in the future.
Deep brain stimulation alleviates Parkinsonian motor deficits through desynchronizing GABA release
Authors: Shu Yousheng , Xu Zongyi , Duan Wei , Yuan Shuyu , Zhang Xiaoxue , You Chong , Yu Jin-Tai , Wang Jian , Li Jia-Da , Deng Suixin 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

High-frequency deep brain stimulation (DBS) of subthalamic nucleus (STN) is an effective clinical therapy for Parkinson's disease (PD), but the underlying cellular and circuit mechanism remains unclear. Here we find a critical role of asynchronous release (AR) of GABA induced by high-frequency stimulation (HFS) at STN in the improvement of motor functions in dopamine-depleted (DD) mice. HFS at 130 Hz causes an initial inhibition followed by desynchronization of spiking activity of STN neurons, largely attributable to presynaptic GABA release. In contrast, low-frequency stimulation (LFS) at 20 Hz produces much weaker AR and a neglectable effect on spiking activity of STN neurons. Further experiments demonstrate that the activation of parvalbumin (PV) axons, but not non-PV axons, from external globus pallidus (GPe) is both necessary and sufficient for the therapeutic effect of DBS. A decrease in AR strength diminishes the high-frequency DBS effect, whereas an increase in AR strength enhances the effect of low-frequency DBS. Together, our results reveal a crucial role of asynchronous GABA release from GPe PV neurons in the improvement of motor functions under Parkinsonian conditions.
Association between preoperative diaphragm thickening fraction and postoperative pulmonary complications in patients undergoing thoracoscopic esophagectomy for esophageal cancer
Authors: Okura PT Kazuki , Hasegawa MSc PT Kakeru , Sakamoto PT Ririko , Takahashi PT Yusuke , Nagaki  , Wakita  , Sato  , Kasukawa  , Miyakoshi  
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Objective:
This study aimed to investigate the association between preoperative diaphragm thickening assessed using ultrasound imaging and postoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs) in patients undergoing thoracoscopic esophagectomy for esophageal cancer.
Methods:
This single-center, prospective, cohort study enrolled patients with esophageal cancer who were scheduled to undergo thoracoscopic esophagectomy between June 2021 and May 2024. The diaphragm thickening fraction (DTF) was measured using ultrasound imaging preoperatively and at 1 and 2 weeks postoperatively. Our primary outcome comprised overall PPCs. We investigated the longitudinal change in the DTF and the relationship between the DTF and PPCs. We also examined the optimal cutoff value for the ability of the DTF to predict PPCs.
Results:
This study enrolled 73 patients. PPCs occurred in 21 (29%) patients, 10 (14%) of whom had pneumonia. The estimated difference between the preoperative and 1-week postoperative least squares means of the DTF was − 56.3% (95% credible interval [CrI]: −65.4, − 47.2) and − 36.5% (95%CrI: −43.7, − 29.2) between the preoperative and 2-week postoperative values. The mean odds ratio of preoperative DTF to PPCs was 0.82 per 10% increase (95%CrI: 0.66, 0.97), after adjusting for potential confounders. According to the receiver operating characteristic curve, the optimal cutoff value predicting PPCs was 123.6%.
Conclusion:
DTF is decreased at 1 and 2 weeks after thoracoscopic esophagectomy in patients with esophageal cancer. The higher the preoperative DTF, the lower the odds of occurrence of PPCs.
Magnetostratigraphic resolution of the late Ediacaran paleomagnetic enigma
Authors: Pierce James , Evans David , Polomski Dana , Youbi Nasrrddine , Mediany Mohamed , Ounar Jihane , Oukhro Rachid , Boumehdi Moulay Ahmed , Strauss Justin , Keller C. Brenhin , Gärtner Andreas , Ovtcharova Maria , Wotzlaw Joern , Linnemann Ulf 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Paleogeography of the Ediacaran Period has remained poorly understood due to paleomagnetic studies commonly yielding perplexing or conflicting data. Here we report new magnetostratigraphic data from the Ediacaran Ouarzazate Group in the Anti-Atlas Mountains of Morocco, which have primary magnetizations supported by a positive conglomerate test and stratigraphically consistent directions within volcanic units across multiple localities. Comprehensive magnetostratigraphic sampling shows highly variable directions, consistent with a rapidly changing geomagnetic field along a longitudinally preferred axis. High-precision geochronology constrains the geomagnetic variability to ~568-562 Ma and suggests rates that are likely too rapid for true polar wander or plate tectonic interpretations. Comparison of igneous- and sedimentary-derived data, using a novel statistical approach combining Bingham and Fisher distributions, indicates a high-inclination paleomagnetic direction that is compatible with independent evidence for regional glaciation. Our analysis produces a late Ediacaran paleogeographic reconstruction that is consistent with paleomagnetic and geologic constraints.
Lymphotoxin-driven meningeal BAFF/CXCL13 imbalance and grey matter injury
Authors: Ramaglia Valeria , Naouar Ikbel , Pangan Andrei , Zuo Michelle , Champagne-Jorgensen Kevin , Patel Jyot , Wang Angela , Pu Annie , Ward Lesley , Ahn Jennifer , Pössnecker Elisabeth , Cenni Bruno , Nuesslein-Hildesheim Barbara , Browning Jeffrey , Pröbstel Anne-Katrin , Gommerman Jennifer 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

In people living with multiple sclerosis (pwMS), brain leptomeningeal immune aggregates associate with subpial cortical pathology and disease progression, but the mechanism leading to this pathology is unknown. Moreover, biomarkers for brain leptomeningeal inflammation, which is very difficult to image, are lacking. In a passive model of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) induced by adoptive transfer of Th17 cells into young SJL/J mice we used a selective covalent inhibitor of Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTKi) to identify the circuitry that drives leptomeningeal inflammation. We found that BTK inhibition reduced the formation of leptomeningeal B cell-rich aggregates and diminished demyelination and axonal loss in the subpial cortex concomitant with a lower ratio of BAFF/CXCL13 in the leptomeninges. Mechanistically, treatment with BTKi interfered with the expression of Lymphotoxin beta Receptor ligands, and co-treatment with a LTβR agonist abrogated the therapeutic benefits of BTKi. We also observed a low BAFF/CXCL13 ratio in CSF collected post-mortem from pwMS that exhibited high levels of leptomeningeal inflammation from matching brain tissue, compared to pwMS with low leptomeningeal inflammation. Together, our data demonstrate that B cell-rich leptomeningeal aggregates in SJL/J adoptive transfer EAE mice are driven by the lymphotoxin pathway resulting in a lower BAFF/CXCL13 ratio in the leptomeninges. BAFF/CXCL13 ratios in the CSF could serve as a potential surrogate marker for B cell-rich leptomeningeal aggregates, providing a better means to stratify and monitor MS patients receiving brain-penetrant drugs such as BTKi.