bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Multi-Omics Insights into the Impact of Increased Litter Size on Sow Gut Microbiota: Unveiling the Role of Serotonin-Associated Microbiota in Fertility Enhancement
Authors: Chen Yanli , Wei Siyu , Wang Yan , He Yanmin , Liu Yalin , Shaoyong Weike , Sun Lou , Gan Yujie , Zong Xin , Xiang Yun , Wang Yizhen , Jin Mingliang 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Backgroud Compelling evidence has established a strong link between the gut microbiota and host reproductive health. However, the specific regulatory roles of individual bacterial species on reproductive performance are not well-understood. It is crucial to gain a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms underlying gut microbiota, in order to mitigate potential threats to both farm animals and human health.
Results In the present study, Jinhua sows with varying reproductive performances under the same diet and management conditions were selected to explore potential mechanisms on the intricate relationship between the gut microbiome and host reproductive performance using 16S sequencing, metagenomics and serum metabolomics. Our findings revealed that the KEGG pathways for base excision repair and DNA replication were enriched, along with gene-level enhancements in spore formation, in sows with higher reproductive performance, indicating that the gut microbiome experiences stress. Further analysis showed a positive correlation between these changes and litter size, indicating that the host acts as a stressor, reshaping the microbiome. This adaptation allows the intestinal microbes in sows with high reproductive performance to enrich specific serotonin-related bacteria, such as Oxalobacter formigenes, Ruminococcus CAG 382, Clostridium leptum, andClostridium botulinum. Subsequently, the enriched microbiota may promote host serotonin production, which is positively correlated with reproductive performance in our study, known to regulate follicle survival and oocyte maturation.
Conclusions Our study provides a theoretical basis for understanding the interactions between gut microbes and the host. It highlights new insights into reassembling gut microbiota in sows with higher litter sizes and the role of serotonin-related microbiota and serotonin in fertility.
Disulfidptosis-mediated immune microenvironment regulation characteristics in atherosclerosis：novel insights from bioinformatics analyses
Authors: Zhao Huanyi , Jin Zheng , Li Junlong , Fang Junfeng , Wu Wei 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background: Atherosclerosis (AS) is the leading cause of coronary heart disease, which is the leading cause of death worldwide. Recent studies have identified disulfidptosis as a new type of cell death that may be involved in onset and development of many diseases. However, the role of disulfidptosis in AS is not clear. In this study, bioinformatics analysis and in vivo and in vitro experiments were performed to evaluate the potential relationship between disulfidptosis and AS.
Methods: Atherosclerosis-related sequencing data were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). Bioinformatics techniques were used to evaluate differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with disulfidptosis-related AS. Hub genes were screened using least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) and random forests (RF) methods. In addition, we established a foam cell model in vitro and an AS mouse model in vivo to verify the expressions of hub genes. In addition, we constructed a diagnostic nomogram with hub genes to predict progression of AS. Finally, the consensus clustering method was used to establish two different subtypes, and associations between subtypes and immunity were explored.
Results: In this study, 9 disulfidptosis-related AS DEGs were identified from GSE28829 and GSE43292 datasets. Evaluation of DEGs using LASSO and RF methods resulted in identification of 4 hub genes (CAPZB, DSTN, MYL6, PDLIM1), which were analyzed for diagnostic value using ROC curve analysis and verified in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, a nomogram including hub genes was established that accurately predicted the occurrence of AS. The consensus clustering algorithm was used to separate patients with early atherosclerotic plaques and patients with advanced atherosclerotic plaques into two disulfidptosis subtypes. Cluster B displayed higher levels of infiltrating immune cells, which indicated that patients in cluster B may have a positive immune response for progression of AS.
Conclusion:In summary, disulfidptosis-related genes including CAPZB, DSTN, MYL6, and PDLIM1 may be diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets for AS. In addition, these genes are closely related to immune cells, which may inform immunotherapy for AS.
Study of Sublethal Effects of Beta-cypermethrin of Evergestis extimalis (Lepidoptera: Pyralididae)
Authors: Zeng Yuanfang , Shen YinYin , Lai Youpeng 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Evergestis extimalis, a significant pest of rape plants, has developed resistance to commonly used insecticides due to prolonged and excessive chemical insecticide use. This study aimed to preliminarily explore the sublethal effects of beta-cypermethrin on E. extimalis and its detoxification mechanism at the molecular level. In the F1 generation, sublethal effects diminished, yet population biological parameters showed an upward trend, potentially contributing to the resurgence of E. extimalis. Specifically, the developmental duration of 1st instar larvae in the F1 generation was significantly extended compared to the control, while other stages and life table parameters remained largely unaffected. Under beta-cypermethrin stress, glutathione S-transferase (GSTs) activity exhibited an induction-inhibition-induction pattern, carboxylesterase (CarE) activity remained elevated for 72 hours, and cytochrome P450s (P450s) activity initially declined before increasing in the LC25 treatment group. Transcriptome analysis revealed 1501 differentially expressed genes, primarily enriched in metabolic, biosynthetic, and detoxification metabolism pathways. Among these, 14 P450s, 5 CarEs, 4 GSTs, and 2 UDP-glycosyltransferases (UGTs) were identified. Enzyme activity kits were utilized to assess detoxification enzyme responses to beta-cypermethrin, revealing significant reductions in fecundity in the F0 generation. The LC25 treatment group exhibited a significantly lower daily egg production compared to the control. The F1 generation exhibited an upward trend in life table parameters, indicating a potential stimulatory effect of beta-cypermethrin stress on reproductive capacity.
Effect of sorghum flour-containing pasta on postprandial glycemia, appetite and energy intake in healthy individuals
Authors: Khan Imran , Johnson Stuart , Yousif Adel , Gamlath Shirani , Ahmad Jamil , Almajwal Ali 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

BACKGROUND
In vitro studies suggest that incorporating sorghum flour into staple foods including pasta reduces their starch digestibility and hence may suppress postprandial blood glucose levels, appetite and energy intake; however, these effects in humans have yet to be reported.
OBJECTIVE
To investigate the effect of red and white sorghum-containing pasta on blood glucose response, appetite and energy intake in humans.
METHODS
In a randomised crossover design, healthy individuals (n = 20) consumed the following three iso-caloric test meals (each providing 50 g available carbohydrates) as breakfast: control pasta (CP) made from100% durum wheat; 30% red sorghum pasta (RSP) and; 30% white sorghum pasta (WSP). Blood glucose and subjective appetite were measured postprandially for 2 and 3 h, respectively. Energy intakes from ad libitum lunch consumed 3 h after breakfast and for the remainder of the day were also measured. Incremental areas under or over the curves (iAUCs/iAOCs) for blood glucose and appetite parameters were calculated.
RESULTS
The RSP meal resulted in significantly lower blood glucose response and glucose iAUC (0-120 min) compared to CP meal (P = 0.005, P = 0.017, respectively). Compared to CP meal, the RSP meal resulted in significantly higher satiety rating and iAUC (P = 0.033, P = 0.029, respectively), lower hunger rating and iAOC (P = 0.002, P = 0.004, respectively) and lower prospective food intake rating and iAOC (P ˂ 0.001). Energy intake at ad libitum lunch was significantly lower after the RSP meal than after the CP meal (P = 0.001).
CONCLUSION
The results indicate that red sorghum addition into pasta provides a product inducing reduced glycemia, favourably changed appetite parameters and decreased subsequent energy intake.
Causal relationship between immune cells and bladder cancer: a bi-directional Mendelian randomization study
Authors: HY AnNeng , Lv ZongYing , Chen GuiYuan , Lin YuHang , Zhu XiaoLe , Li JunYang , Yu XiaoDong 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Previous studies have explored the role of immune cells on bladder cancer（BCa）. This bi-directional Mendelian randomization (MR) study further assessed 731 immunocyte phenotypes on whether BCa a causal relationship exists and provides some evidence of causality.
Methods: The summary data for immune cell phenotypes was derived from a study cohort, including 3,757 individuals from Sardinia with data on 731 immune cell phenotypes. The summary data for BCa were obtained from their respective genome-wide association studies (GWAS). We used inverse variable weighting (IVW) as the primary analysis method. In addition, we simultaneously employed multiple analytical methods, including MR-Egger, weighted mode, simple mode, and weighted median, to strengthen the final results. Finally, sensitivity analyses were conducted to verify the stability and feasibility of the data.
Results: 16 immune cell traits involving the four immunological signal types (MFI, RC, AC, and MP) were shown to be significantly correlated with the risk of BCa in our investigation. BCa was positively correlated with 5 immune cell traits (P < 0.05, OR > 1); However, the remainder BCa incidence decreases by 11 traits (OR<1, P<0.05). Furthermore, none of them revealed reverse causality, heterogeneity, or horizontal pleiotropy (P > 0.05).
Conclusions: Through a comprehensive bi-directional MR analysis, we were able to reveal a complicated causal link between several immunological phenotypes and BCa, focusing on the intricate network of interactions between the immune system and BCa. The results of this study provide fresh viewpoints and resources for investigating immunotherapeutic targets and BCa preventive tactics.
The Role and Mechanism of Periostin in the Formation of Breast Prosthesis Capsule
Authors: Yang Ying , Li Shumo , Bian Li , Dai Xiaoming , Hu Jun , Ma Yun , Wang Zhiyuan 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Capsular contraction is the most common complication after breast augmentation or reconstruction, and is the main reason underlying patient dissatisfaction and additional subsequent surgeries. Periostin is an extracellular matrix protein and a member of TGF-β superfamily. Studies have shown that periostin is closely related to fibrosis, collagen cross-linking and tissue remodeling. In this study, we observed the expression of periostin and other fibrosis-related proteins in the capsule of human breast silicon implant, assessing their relationship with the extent of capsule fibrosis. By using human breast derived fibroblasts with manipulated periostin expression level, we explored periostin’s impact on other fibrosis-related cytokines, fibroblast proliferation, differentiation, and collagen synthesis. Furthermore, we employed a murine model of prosthesis implantation to elucidate the roles of periostin and lysyl oxidase (LOX) in capsule formation. Immunohistochemical analysis of clinical capsular specimens revealed a significant correlation between periostin expression levels and the severity of capsular contracture. In vitro experiments using human breast-derived fibroblasts demonstrated that periostin promotes fibroblast proliferation and regulates the expression of key fibrosis-related proteins such as LOX, BMP-1, fibronectin, and tenascin-C at both protein and mRNA levels. Moreover, periostin was found to induce fibroblast differentiation into myofibroblasts and enhance collagen production. In the murine model of prosthesis implantation, periostin and LOX were observed to increase the thickness of the prosthesis capsule, whereas the administration of the LOX inhibitor β-aminopropionitrile (BAPN) significantly attenuated capsule formation. Our study underscores the significant role of periostin in the pathogenesis of breast prosthesis capsule formation and contracture. These findings provide novel insights into the mechanisms underlying capsular contracture and suggest periostin as a potential therapeutic target for mitigating this complication.
Hard X-ray inverse Compton scattering at photon energy of 87.5 keV
Authors: Sakai Yusuke , Babzien Marcus , Fedurin Mikhail , Kusche Karl , Williams Oliver , Fukasawa Atsushi , Naranjo Brian , Murokh Alex , Agustsson Ronald , Simmonds Andrew , Jacob Paul , Stenby George , Malone Robert , Polyanskiy Mikhail , Pogorelsky Igor , Palmer Mark , Rosenzweig James 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Production of hard X-ray via inverse Compton scattering at photon energyies below 100 keV range aimed at potential applications in medicine and material research is reported. Experiments have been performed at the Brookhaven National Laboratory, Accelerator Test Facility, employing the counter collision of a 70 MeV, 0.3 nC electron beam with a near infra-red Nd: YAG laser (1064 nm wavelength) pulse containing 100 mJ. Clear K-edge absorption contrast of the hard X-ray photons through a range of Au filters near 100 micron thickness is observed. The radiation distribution of the scattered photon beam beam is verified in a single shot measurements to be nearly monochromatic through the contrast provided by the Au K- edge at 80.7 keV.
Optimization of Biogas Production from Potato Peels and Fish Waste using MATLAB
Authors: Ogur Eric 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Optimizing biogas production from organic waste is crucial for sustainable energy and waste management. This study investigates the use of potato peels and fish waste as substrates for anaerobic digestion. By integrating mathematical modelling, experimental design, and computational simulations, the research enhances the understanding and optimization of the anaerobic digestion process. A mathematical model based on Monod kinetics and mass balance principles was developed to describe substrate utilization, biomass growth, and biogas production. This model incorporates variables such as substrate concentration, microbial biomass, and biogas production rate, while accounting for factors like temperature and pH. MATLAB was used to solve the equations and validate the model with experimental data. The experimental setup involved a continuous stirred-tank reactor (CSTR) with controlled operational parameters. A detailed experimental design ensured reliability, involving randomization, blocking, and control experiments. Data on substrate and biomass concentrations, volatile fatty acids, chemical oxygen demand, and total solids were collected and analysed. Results showed a strong linear relationship between actual and predicted biogas yields, with an R2 value of 0.99238, indicating high predictive accuracy. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) confirmed the significant impact of substrate composition, temperature, and pH on biogas production. A refined regression model highlighted the positive impact of higher temperatures and pH levels, while revealing a synergistic interaction between substrate composition and pH. Using Design of Experiments (DoE) and MATLAB optimization, the optimal conditions were found to be 72% potato peels, a temperature of 51°C, and a pH of 7.4, resulting in a predicted biogas production rate of 0.49 L/h. These findings highlight the potential for efficient resource utilization and biogas production. This study provides a comprehensive understanding of the anaerobic digestion process, aiding the development of sustainable biogas production strategies. The integration of mathematical modelling, experimental design, and computational simulations proves invaluable in optimizing biogas production from organic waste, supporting global renewable energy and waste management efforts. The insights gained pave the way for practical applications in industrial and municipal settings, fostering a transition towards a more sustainable future.
Mitigation of Lead (Pb2+) and Cadmium (Cd2+) synthetic wastewater using Datura metel fruit peel biochar- zinc oxide nanocomposite
Authors: Kumar Vaishali , Sable Harsh , Singh Vandana , Pandit Soumya , Ranjan Nishant 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

The high-density elements are harmful even in low quantities such as heavy trace metals; Arsenic, Copper, Cadmium, Lead, Mercury, and Chromium which are hazardous to the natural resources. They enter waterways by industrial operations, mining, urban runoff, agriculture, e-waste, and pesticides and cause cytotoxicity, neurotoxicity, organ damage, cancer, and weak bones. may remedy heavy metal pollution. Some promising methods that could reduce the heavy metal contamination of wastewater are membrane filtration, catalysts, ion exchange, biosorbent, and nanomaterial adsorption. In this study, Datura metel fruit peel biochar (DPB) infused with zinc oxide nanoparticle (ZnO-NP) is used as a nanocomposite for the remediation of Pb2+ and Cd2+ from synthetic wastewater. The best parameters for DPB and DPB-ZnO3 (3% infusion ratio of ZnO-NP) adsorption of Pb2+ and Cd2+ ions in synthetic wastewater were 3% ZnO infusion ratio, 6.75 solution pH, 65 minutes contact time, and 82 mg/l starting heavy metal concentration. Both DPB and DPB-ZnO biosorbents adsorb Pb2+ better than Cd2+ under the indicated conditions. For Cd2+ adsorption, DPB and DPB-ZnO had the greatest capacities of 27.56 and 48.27 mg/g, respectively. DPB and DPB-ZnO had maximal Pb2+ adsorption capabilities of 25.17 and 49.38 mg/g. The current study represents the adsorption capability of the nanocomposite concludes that Pb2+ and Cd2+ can be efficiently remediated from heavy metal contaminated wastewater that gives substantial advantages in terms of environmental protection and human health.
Effectiveness Of a Community Health Worker-Led Education Intervention on Knowledge, Attitude, and Antenatal Care Attendance of Pregnant Women in Eastern Uganda. A Quasi- Experimental Study
Authors: Lee Seungwon , Kasibante Samuel , Eminai Adam , Wani Solomon , Opii Didan Jacob , Levine Lisa D. , Kanyike Andrew Marvin 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background Uganda experiences high maternal mortality ratios, with suboptimal utilization of maternal health services like antenatal care (ANC), especially in rural areas. Community Health Workers (CHWs), known as Village Health Teams (VHTs), have shown the potential to enhance maternal and child health (MCH) outcomes in Uganda by educating pregnant women in the community. However, their training models need to be refined to boost their performance.Objective We evaluated the effectiveness of a contextually tailored educational intervention delivered by VHTs on the knowledge, attitudes, and antenatal care attendance of pregnant women in Eastern Uganda.Methods We performed a quasi-experimental study using a pre-post-intervention evaluation conducted over six months in Eastern Uganda. We included pregnant women in their first trimester who consented to participate and excluded those in later trimesters. We performed multistage sampling with villages randomly selected and participants enrolled by trained VHTs. The VHTs were trained using a Maternal Newborn Child Health curriculum developed by a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals. The VHTs delivered educational sessions to the participants during home visits throughout their pregnancy. Data was collected on pregnant women's knowledge, attitudes, and antenatal care attendance before and after the intervention. A score of ≥ 75% was considered sufficient knowledge. The Chi-square test was used to test the difference in the proportional change in knowledge and attitude of pregnant women. A paired two-sample t-test assessed changes in ANC attendance pre- and post-intervention. A p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.Results 228 participants were included, with a mean age of 27 ± 5.90 years and gravidity of 2.92 ± 1.47. There was a significant improvement in participant proportions with sufficient MCH knowledge (post-intervention: 80.3% versus pre-intervention: 19.6%, p < 0.001). Attitudes towards healthy MCH behaviors improved post-intervention; 98.7% of women agreed that attending eight or more ANC visits is crucial, compared to 88.1% before intervention (p < 0.001). Additionally, 99.6% of participants recognized a health facility as the best place for ANC post-intervention, compared to 89.9% pre-intervention (p < 0.001). The average number of ANC visits significantly increased from 1.22 to 6.38 (p < 0.001).Conclusion Contextually tailored education delivered by trained CHWS significantly improved maternal health knowledge, attitudes, and ANC attendance among pregnant women in rural Uganda.
Domestic and Irrigation Water Quality on the Southern Slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro
Authors: Codalli Fabia , Shagega Frank , Breuer Lutz , Munishi Subira , Jacobs Suzanne 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

This study assessed the quality of water for drinking and irrigation purposes on the southern slopes of Mt. Kilimanjaro during the dry season under low flow conditions. Fifty-one samples covering 8 different water types were collected in a snapshot sampling campaign over 10 days in February 2023. First, physical, chemical and biological parameters were analysed and compared with Tanzanian and international requirements for drinking and irrigation water quality. The samples were then ranked according to their suitability for drinking and/or irrigation using water quality indices (WQI). All drinking water quality parameters except for E. coli and turbidity were within the reference standards. A generalized problem of faecal contamination was found in the study area, including in domestic water, which highlights the need to identify sources of contamination and remediate before distribution. The drinking water quality index (DWQI) classified 77% of the samples as unsuitable, 4% as poor or very poor and 19% as good or excellent for drinking. Irrigation water quality parameters were within the guidelines of restriction of use except for pH in 5 samples. All samples were classified as safe for irrigation according to the irrigation water quality index (IWQI). However, five other irrigation indices (Kelley’s Index, Soluble Sodium Percentage, Permeability Index, Residual Sodium Bicarbonate and Magnesium Ratio) showed potential problems with excess of sodium and magnesium. A combination of indices is recommended for assessing water quality for irrigation use.
A Harris Hawks optimization-based cellular automata model for urban growth simulation
Authors: Ding Yuan , Zheng Hengyi , Jin Fuming , Chen Dongming , Huang Xinyu 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

This paper proposes an innovative cellular automata model based on the Harris Hawk Optimization (HHO) algorithm. HHO is an intelligent optimization algorithm inspired by the cooperative hunting behavior of Harris's hawks, demonstrating excellent optimization efficiency in spatial searches. Combining the HHO algorithm with the CA model, we establish the HHO-CA model for simulating urban growth in Guangzhou, China. The simulation achieves a total accuracy of 91.95%, an accuracy of urban cells of 82.43%, and a Kappa coefficient of 0.7441, all superior to the Null model. Furthermore, comparing the HHO-CA model with other representative CA models, the HHO-CA model outperforms in total accuracy, accuracy of urban cells, and Kappa coefficient, showcasing significant advantages in using the HHO algorithm to mine transition rules during the simulation of urban growth processes.