bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Dysbiosis in Maize Leaf Endosphere Microbiome is Associated with Domestication
Authors: Topcu Ilksen , Bernal Julio S , Antony-Babu Sanjay 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
The effect of domestication and breeding on maize leaf endosphere microbiota is scarcely understood, a knowledge gap is vital to be filled given their roles in plant health. We examined the leaf endosphere microbial communities associated with three plant-groups; teosinte, landraces and elite inbred maize, with the latter including both Mexican and US lines. Particularly, we used 16S-V4 region amplicon sequencing of the leaf endosphere microbiomes to infer how the microbial community of elite inbred maize may have been shaped by the crop’s evolution, and whether they were affected by: (i) the transition from a perennial life history to an annual life history in the wild; (ii) transformation of annual life into landrace maize via domestication; (iii) the northward spread of landrace maize from Mexico to the US; and (iii) breeding of landrace maizes to produce elite inbreds. Additionally, we investigated biomarker taxa, and likely functional profiles using LEfSe analysis, network analysis, and FAPROTAX.
Results
The leaf endosphere microbial community differed among the plant-groups and genotypes, and was markedly affected by domestication, as indicated by a decline in bacterial diversity and changes in microbial community structure between wild (teosinte) and domesticated (maize) Zea. While the microbial community structure was highly stringent and regulated in the teosintes, post-domestication maize landraces and elite inbreds showed high variability, suggesting microbial dysbiosis in the leaf endosphere associated with domestication, and consistent with predictions of the Anna Karenina principle. As such, this finding marks the first evidence of dysbiosis associated with plant domestication. Co-occurrence network analyses revealed the complexity of the network structure increased with domestication. Furthermore, FAPROTAX predictions suggested that the teosintes possessed higher cellulolytic, chitinolytic, and nitrate respiration functions, while the maize landraces and elite inbreds showed higher fermentation and nitrate reduction functions.
Conclusions
Our results showed the leaf endosphere microbial community structures are consistent with community alterations associated with dysbiosis. Altogether, our findings enhanced our understanding of the effects of anthropogenic processes such as crop domestication, spread, and breeding on the leaf endosphere of elite maize cultivars, and may guide the development of evolutionarily- and ecologically sustainable biofertilizers and biocontrol agents.
DEF6 regulates renal ischemia reperfusion injury through suppressing the WWP2 mediated ubiquitination of PARP1
Authors: Hu Haochong , Liu Yiting , Han Shangting , Guo Jiayu , Zhou Jiangqiao , Qiu Tao 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Renal ischemia-reperfusion injury (RIRI) stands as an unavoidable complication arising from kidney surgery, profoundly intertwined with its prognosis. The role of differentially expressed in FDCP 6 homolog (DEF6) in RIRI remains elusive, despite its confirmation as a potential therapeutic target for diverse diseases. Here, we investigated the mechanism by which DEF6 regulated RIRI.
Methods
RNA sequencing data and IP-MS were used to identify the expression and potential targets of DEF6 through bioinformatics analysis. To elucidate the impact of DEF6 on RIRI, both an in vivo model of RIRI in mice and an in vitro model of kidney cell hypoxia/reoxygenation were established. Biochemical and histological analyses were used to investigate the influence of DEF6 on kidney damage mediated by RIRI.
Results
We confirmed that DEF6 was upregulated during RIRI and had a close correlation with RIRI-related inflammation and apoptosis. Moreover, inhibition of DEF6 could mitigate RIRI-induced kidney damage, inflammation, and apoptosis. Through our comprehensive mechanistic investigation, we revealed that DEF6 interacts with poly ADP-ribose polymerase 1 (PARP1) and suppresses the ubiquitination of PARP1. Inhibition of DEF6 resulted in reduced cleaveage of PARP1, leading to a marked suppression of PARP1-mediated apoptosis activation. The aggravation effect on inflammation and apoptosis achieved through DEF6 was nullified by the inhibition of NF-κB and Bax/Bcl2 signaling activation through PARP1 deletion.
Conclusions
The findings from our study indicate that DEF6 suppressed the WWP2 mediated ubiquitination of PARP1 and modulates the activation of NF-κB and Bax/Bcl2 pathway, thus involved in RIRI-induced inflammation and apoptosis. These results suggest that DEF6 holds promise as a potential therapeutic target for mitigating RIRI.
Biomimetic Freestanding Microfractals for Flexible Electronics
Authors: Barua Amit , Gogoi Rituporn , Reddy Pulikanti Guruprasad , Jolaiy Saman , Bodaghi Mahdi , Laukkanen Timo , Speck Thomas , Sariola Veikko , Sharma Vipul 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

The microfractals of leaf skeletons can be effective substrates for flexible electronics due to their high surface-to-volume ratio, transparency, breathability and flexibility. The challenge lies in replicating these fractal surfaces at the microscale in a way that is scalable, freestanding, and integrable with various materials. In this study, we present a novel method for the biomimetic microfabrication of leaf-skeleton-based fractal surfaces. We utilized a modified electrospinning method, replacing the fiber collector with a metalized biotic collector to replicate the microstructures. The biomimetic microfractals demonstrated over 90% replication accuracy, > 80% transparency, good stretchability, and breathability, and were freestanding. The method is versatile, allowing for the use of a wide range of polymers in biomimetic microfabrication. For application in flexible electronics, biomimetic conductive fractal patterns (BCFP) were fabricated by immobilizing Ag Nanowires (AgNW) using a simple spray-based method. The BCFP exhibited high conductivity with sheet resistances < 20 Ω sq− 1 while maintaining good transparencies. The BCFP adheres conformally to human skin, acting as an electronic skin (e-skin). To demonstrate the application, the BCFP was used to fabricate a tactile pressure sensor. In addition to their excellent transparency at low sheet resistances, stretchability, moisture resistance, and tight conformal bonding with the target surface, the BCFP also allows the evaporation of perspiration, making them suitable for long-term use as epidermal sensors. The application of BCFP in advanced bionic skin was demonstrated through gesture monitoring experiments.
Effect of past extensive ulcers on fecal calprotectin in ulcerative colitis
Authors: Ishida Natsuki , Egami Takatoshi , Takebe Tomohiro , Takahashi Kenichi , Asai Yusuke , Tamura Satoshi , Matsuura Tomoharu , Yamade Mihoko , Iwaizumi Moriya , Hamaya Yasushi , Yamada Takanori , Osawa Satoshi , Sugimoto Ken 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Ulcerative colitis (UC) causes extensive ulceration attributable to intestinal inflammation. This study investigated the effect of past extensive ulcers (PEUs) on fecal calprotectin (FC).
Methods
This retrospective, single-center, observational study included patients with UC with a Mayo endoscopic subscore of 0. UC with scarring or pseudopolyposis was defined as PEU and FC and fecal immunochemical occult blood test (FIT) values ere compared. The marker levels of patients in the PEU and non-PEU groups were examined to assess clinical relapse within 12 months.
Results
Of the 61 included patients, 27 had UC with PEUs and 34 had UC without PEUs. Albumin, hemoglobin, and FIT values between groups were not significantly different; however, the C-reactive protein and FC values of the PEU group were significantly higher than those of the non-PEU group. The FC values of the clinical relapse and remission groups within 12 months differed significantly. The cutoff values for the prediction of relapse within 12 months for all patients (area under the curve [AUC], 0.709; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.512–0.907) and the non-PEU group (AUC, 0.893; 95% CI, 0.724–1.000) were both 118 mg/kg.
Conclusions
The FC values of patients with UC and PEUs increased; therefore, it may not be a sufficiently accurate biomarker.
Use of the Da Vinci SP ® Surgical System in Robot-assisted Nipple-sparing Mastectomy: A Single-Center, Retrospective Study
Authors: Lee Sae Byul , Kim Jisun , Chung Il Yong , Kim Hee Jeong , Lee Jong Won , Son Byung Ho , Ko Beom Seok 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

We investigated the safety and performance of the Da Vinci SP single-port robot (SP robot) in nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM) with immediate reconstruction. Medical records of 60 women aged ≥ 19 years who had undergone SP robot-assisted unilateral or bilateral NSM with immediate reconstruction between October 2020 and August 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. Stage I (31, 47.1%) was the most common pathological tumor-node-metastasis stage, followed by stages II (22, 33.3%), 0 (7, 10.6%), and III (4, 6.0%). The median total duration of NSM performed by a breast surgeon and reconstruction performed by a plastic surgeon was 154.0 min (interquartile range [IQR], 130.5–206.0 min) and 133.0 min (IQR, 80.0–255.0 min), respectively. The median length of hospitalization was 5.5 d (IQR, 3.0–9.0 d). Conversion to robotic multiport or open surgery was not required in any case. The median duration to drain removal was 5.0 d (IQR, 4.0–6.0 d). Recurrence of cancer within 6 months was not observed in any patient. SP robot-assisted NSM with immediate reconstruction was performed successfully in all patients without conversion to open surgery or the incidence of significant perioperative complications, indicating its precision and ability to minimize the size of the surgical incision.
Expanding and Linking Protected Areas Network: A Case Study of GAP Analysis and Corridor Design for Brown Bears in Iran
Authors: Ara Sahar Roshan , Askaripour Nariman 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

The brown bear is Iran's largest carnivore with a wide distribution range. However, the brown bear is listed as nationally endangered. Brown bears' habitats in Iran are very fragmented, especially at the local scale. Thus, researching the potentially suitable habitat areas in a human-dominated landscape like Lorestan province in Iran is vital to ensure the conservation of this species. In this study, we used a presence-only based maximum entropy (MaxEnt) approach to model the brown bear's habitat suitability. Then, we utilized the Gap Analysis to identify the gap between highly suitable habitat areas and the existing protected areas network. Furthermore, the potential habitat corridors were designed between some protected areas, and between a protected area and a no-hunting area to maintain connectivity between them. Our results showed that the most important variables impacting the distribution of brown bears were the distance from roads, annual precipitation, elevation, and distance from agricultural lands respectively. The results also demonstrated that only 7.4% of Lorestan province is considered a highly suitable habitat, with 36.07% remaining unprotected. In conclusion, this study can be a valuable tool for expanding the current protected and no-hunting areas and establishing new ones in the province and other similar regions.
The parameterized modified SOR-like method for saddle point problems from Stokes equations *
Authors: Ma Changfeng , Yu Xiaojuan 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Inspired by MSOR-like iteration method proposed by Guo et al. [25] and NMSSOR iteration method proposed by Najafi et al. [32], parameter acceleration technique and preconditioning matrix Q are used, we establish a parameterized modified SOR-like (PMSOR-like) method for non-singular and singular saddle point problems. Theoretical analysis show that the convergence and semi-convergence properties of the PMSOR-like method can be guaranteed under suitable conditions. For nonsingular cases, we give the local theoretical optimal parameters of PMSOR-like method and the corresponding convergence factor. In addition, numerical examples are given to verify the efficiency of the proposed method.
Vision-Sharing System for Android Avatars to Enable Remote Eye Contact
Authors: Shinkawa Kaoruko , Nakajima Mizuki , Nakata Yoshihiro 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Maintaining eye contact is a fundamental aspect of non-verbal communication, yet current remote communication tools, such as video calls, struggle to replicate the natural eye contact experienced in face-to-face interactions. This study presents a cutting-edge vision-sharing system for android avatars that enables remote eye contact by synchronizing the eye movements of the operator and the avatar. Our innovative system features an eyeball integrated with a wide-angle lens camera, meticulously designed to mimic human eyes in both appearance and functionality. This technology is seamlessly integrated into android avatars, enabling operators to perceive the avatar's surroundings as if physically present. It provides a stable and immersive visual experience through a head-mounted display synchronized with the avatar’s gaze direction. Through rigorous experimental evaluations, we demonstrated the system's ability to faithfully replicate the operator's perspective through the avatar, making eye contact more intuitive and effortless compared with conventional methods. Subjective assessments further validated the system's capacity to reduce operational workload and enhance user experience. These compelling findings underscore the potential of our vision-sharing system to elevate the realism and efficacy of remote communication using android avatars.
A 25-year-old female with a variable presentation of MCTD-A case report
Authors: Kumari Rekha , Khan Maham , Maheshwari Leladher 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Mixed Connective Tissue Disease (MCTD) is a rare connective tissue disease,in which many systems in the body are affected.It involves various mixed features of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), Systemic Sclerosis, Polymyositis, Dermatomyositis, Sjogren’s syndrome and Rheumatoid Arthritis.Positive Anti-U1RNP/SM is highly specific for MCTD. Our case report focuses on a 25-year-old female,who presented with joint pains, symmetric, involving multiple joints associated with pain and low grade fever with no morning stiffness and developed alopecia and a skin rash starting at the nose involving the whole face, neck, back and a distinctive photosensitive bilateral rash on both upper leg regions.This case urges the clinicians to be extra cautious in the diagnosis and management of MCTD,as this disease can lead to various drastic implications i.e., Pulmonary hypertension,restrictive heart disease, renal crisis etc.Moreover,the finding of this disease in this geographical region is unusual and is of special interest to the medical professionals.
Neural Reconnection After Exposure in High Frequency Electromagnetic Fields - In Vivo Study
Authors: Paraš Smiljana , Šnjegota Dragana , Ružić Zoran , Šibarević Maja , Grahovac Jovana , Paraš Milan , Gajanin Radoslav 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Change in cytoarchitecture and reconnection of neurons in rats’ brain under direct two months high frequency electromagnetic field (HFEMF) exposure has been found, supported with data and discussed. HFEMF used in the experiment had the following characteristics: 2.0 GHz frequency, 0.015 A/m intensity, electric field strength of 5.64 V/m, and SAR value was 2.5 W/kg. Rats were exposed for 6 hours a day for 6 days a week, during period of 60 days with experimental HFEMF. Six months after the treatment, histological and unbiased stereological analyses show that there is a reconnection of neurons in rats´ brain, demonstrated by slight increase in their number and production of new dendrites. Effects of HFEMF on neuronal disconnection were detected via caspase, while the SNXS25 protein indicated their reconnection and regeneration. Immunohistochemical analysis of nervous tissue in this paper shows that HFEMF disrupt the work of proteins found on cell membranes and endocytic function of neurons and thus interrupts interneuron communication. The advantage of HFEMF over other methods of treating brain damage is in their controlled and very precise use, with specifically defined characteristics of HFEMF, without ionizing and mutagenic effect on neurons.
Participant experiences with a text message and contingency management intervention for alcohol use during pregnancy and lactation in Cape Town, South Africa
Authors: Erasmus-Claassen Lesley-Ann , Mpisane Noluthando , Williams Petal Petersen , Browne Felicia A. , Myers Bronwyn , Wechsberg Wendee M. , Parry Charles David Heber , Taylor Shantae N. , Washio Yukiko 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
The Western Cape region of South Africa has one of the highest global rates of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), underscoring the urgent need for effective interventions. This qualitative study explores pregnant and lactating participants’ perceptions and experiences of a text message and contingency management (CM) intervention.
Methods
The study involved post-intervention interviews with 10 pregnant participants and 10 post-partum lactating participants. Coding and a thematic analysis approach were applied to the collected data using NVivo 12.
Results
Four main themes emerged from the analysis: (1) program experiences; (2) intervention components; (3) health behavior change; and (4) recommendations for program improvements. The participants valued financial incentives and health-promoting text messages, noting reduced alcohol consumption.
Conclusion
The findings highlighted the potential benefits of the intervention in improving individuals’ health behaviors. However, logistical barriers and the need for expanded support services were identified, emphasizing the importance of refining intervention strategies in resource-limited settings.
Bridging the Gap for Alice: Charitable Organizations Acting Amid Rising Inflation and Further Solutions Using AI
Authors: Chepuri Nikhil , Porandla Rishika 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Nationwide, nearly 37.9 million U.S. households fall into the Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed (ALICE) category. These households earn above the Federal Poverty Line but below the ALICE Household Survival Budget, making them ineligible for many public assistance programs. Nonprofit organizations like United Way and Feeding America have developed tailored assistance programs to support ALICE households. This study utilizes data from ALICE reports, U.S. Census data, and tools such as the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Data Retrieval Tools and the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta’s Policy Rules Database to analyze the challenges faced by ALICE households. Additionally, data from the Integrated Public Use Microdata Series - Current Population Survey (IPUMS CPS) is examined using Microsoft Excel’s Pivottable to quantify the impact of nonprofit programs through the Household Rasch Food Security Score (FSRASCH) metric. The analysis highlights a significant gap in the number of ALICE households receiving assistance, attributed to inadequate access to information about available programs. To address this, AskALICE, an AI chatbot, is proposed. Developed using Yellow.ai’s Orchestrator LLM, AskALICE provides an accessible, centralized solution to inform ALICE households about eligibility and available assistance programs. By leveraging various data tables, assistance program information, and machine learning capabilities, AskALICE aims to bridge the information gap and enhance economic stability for millions of ALICE households. This study underscores the importance of accessible information in improving support for the ALICE population and proposes a practical solution with significant implications for economic stability.
Racial and ethnic differences in healthcare access and utilization among U.S. adults with melanoma and keratinocyte carcinomas
Authors: Juarez Michelle C. , Shah Jill T. , Lee Nayoung , Stevenson Mary L. , Carucci John A. , Criscito Maressa C. 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

There is a paucity of information on racial and ethnic disparities relating to barriers to care in healthcare access and utilization in patients with cutaneous malignancies. We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of adults with melanoma, basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) in the National Institutes of Health (NIH) All of Us Research Program collected between May 2018 and July 2022. Participants included adults (aged 18 or older) with cutaneous malignancy who completed the Health Care Access and Utilization survey. We identified 5,817 adults who were diagnosed with BCC (67%), cSCC (28.9%), and melanoma (23.9%). Non-Hispanic Black (NHB) and Hispanic patients were more likely than non-Hispanic White (NHW) patients to delay a primary care visit due to cost (p = 0.005 and p = 0.015, respectively). NHB patients were also more likely to delay care due to lack of transportation (p < 0.001). NHB and Hispanic patients were more likely to place importance on seeing a provider from the same background (NHB p < 0.002; Hispanic p = 0.002) and also were more likely to report never being able to see such a provider (NHB p < 0.001; Hispanic p = 0.002). Medicaid/Medicare patients, non-college graduates, and those with lower incomes also faced increased barriers to care, including delays due to cost and transportation issues. People of color with cutaneous malignancies are more likely to delay care in seeing primary care providers due to cost or transportation issues. This study provides important insights on disproportionate healthcare usage among racial/ethnic groups that may help mitigate healthcare disparities
Dynamic stall on airfoils with leading-edge tubercles
Authors: Badia Pere Valls , Hickel Stefan , Scarano Fulvio , Li Mogeng 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Leading-edge protuberances on airfoils have been shown to soften the onset of aerodynamic stall and to increase lift in the post-stall regime. The present study examines the effect of tubercles during dynamic stall. Pitching airfoils with tubercles of different amplitudes are studied by wind-tunnel experiments, where the three-dimensional time-resolved velocity field is determined using large-scale particle tracking velocimetry (PTV). Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations are carried out that complement the experimental observations providing pressure distribution and aerodynamic forces. The dynamic stall is dominated by a vortex formed at the leading-edge; we characterize the vorticity, circulation , and advection path of this dynamic-stall vortex (DSV). The presence of the tubercles profoundly modifies the boundary layer from the leading-edge. The roll-up of the vorticity sheet is significantly delayed compared to a conventional airfoil, resulting in a weaker DSV. The vortex formation is shifted downstream, with the overall effect of a weaker and shorter lift overshoot, in turn enabling a quicker transition to deep stall. Regions of flow separation (stall cells) are visibly compartmentalized with a stable spacing of two tubercles wavelengths.