bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effect of foliar application of Silicic acid on biological parameters of Lipaphis erysimi and activity of plant defensive enzymes in rapeseed
Authors: R Karthik , Deka Mukul Kumar , Ajith S , Kalita Surajit , Prakash N. B. 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Silicic acid (SA) is an important source of silicon (Si) that induces resistance in plants against insect pests. The present investigation aimed to investigate the impact of foliar spray of SA on the biological parameters of aphid, Lipaphis erysimi and the activity of defensive enzymes in rapeseed. The results demonstrated applying 0.4% SA significantly reduced the nymphal period, adult longevity and fecundity of L. erysimi compared to the control. In the 0.4% SA- treated rapeseed, the nymphal period, adult longevity and fecundity of L. erysimi were 7.00 days, 7.96 days and 23.52 nymphs/ female, respectively, while in the control, these were 7.92 days, 8.80 days and 26.04 nymphs/ female, respectively. The present investigation revealed that there were no significant changes in activity of defense related enzymes such as peroxidase (POD), polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and phenylalanine ammonia- lyase (PAL) in 0.4% SA- treated rapeseed without aphid infestation. However, a significant increase in the activity of these enzymes was observed in rapeseed amended with 0.4% SA that were subsequently infested with aphids. The application of SA significantly increased the Si content in rapeseed. Furthermore, the study established a significant negative correlation between Si content and biological parameters of L. erysimi.
Cyclin E1/CDK2 Activation Defines a Key Vulnerability to WEE1 Kinase Inhibition in Gynecological Cancers
Authors: Ma Jianhui , Kim Daehwan , Chung Heekyung , Liu Wen , Jeong Kangjin , Ozmen Tugba , Ozmen Furkan , Rames Matthew , Kim Sangyub , Guo Xiao , Jameson Nathan , de Jong Petrus , Yes Steven , Harford Laurie , Li Jiali , Mathews Cara , Doroshow Deborah , Charles Vincent , Kim Doris , Fischer Kimberlee , Samatar Ahmed , Jubb Adrian , Bunker Kevin , Blackwell Kimberly , Simpkins Fiona , Meric-Bernstam Funda , Mills Gordon , Harismendy Olivier , Lackner Mark 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Upregulation of Cyclin E1 and subsequent activation of CDK2 accelerates cell-cycle progression from G1 to S phase and is a common oncogenic driver in gynecological malignancies. WEE1 kinase counteracts the effects of Cyclin E1/CDK2 activation by regulating multiple cell cycle checkpoints. Here we characterized the relationship between Cyclin E1/CDK2 activation and sensitivity to the selective WEE1 inhibitor azenosertib. We found that ovarian cancer cell lines with high levels of endogenous Cyclin E1 expression or forced overexpression were exquisitely sensitive to azenosertib and these results extended to in vivo models of ovarian and uterine serous carcinoma. Models with high Cyclin E1 expression showed higher baseline levels of replication stress and enhanced cellular responses to azenosertib treatment. We found azenosertib synergized with different classes of chemotherapy and described distinct underlying mechanisms. Finally, we provided early evidence from an ongoing phase I study demonstrating clinical activity of monotherapy azenosertib in patients with Cyclin E1/CDK2 activated ovarian and uterine serous carcinomas.
The burden of acid soils for crop production in sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Silva Joao , Aramburu-Merlos Fernando , Baudron Frederic , Gameda Samuel , Sida Tesfaye , Ruganzu Vicky , Meliyo Joel , Jaleta Moti , Chamberlin Jordan , Hijmans Robert 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Acid soils are widespread across sub-Saharan Africa. Agricultural lime can be used to alleviate production constraints associated with soil acidity, but lime is not widely available in the region, and it is unclear how profitable its use would be. To guide potential investments in lime market development, we estimated the profitability of acid soil remediation through liming. Crop yield loss to soil acidity occurs on 32.7 M ha, or 23% of sub-Saharan Africa’s cropland. The burden of acid soils is $6.0 billion (6% of the current production value), and 70% of that could be profitably alleviated. Under prevailing conditions, liming would be profitable in the year of application on 4.6 M ha, with an average profitability of $340 ha-1, and on 5.7 M ha when considering the multiple years that liming has an effect. Intensification of crop production and lower relative lime/output prices could make liming profitable on more cropland.
Highly aligned bacterial cellulose/PPy gradient conductive membranes for directed cell differentiation under electrical stimulation
Authors: Wang Li , Qi Fuyu , Wang Hao , Li Shuangshuang , Hu Sanming , Shi Zhijun , Yang Guang , Chen Hong 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Both of the topographical and gradient conductive cues can influence the cellular activity and thereby tissue regeneration. However, they have not been combined simultaneously onto biomaterial with electrical stimulation to demonstrate the synergistic role so far. Herein, we assume that a bacterial cellulose (BC) -based membrane by incorporating aligned nanofibers and a concentration gradient of polypyrrole (PPy) with electrical stimulation treatment will promote cell differentiation in peripheral nerve regeneration. The results showed that PPy were successfully deposited on the aligned BC/PPy with gradient conductive structure, which exhibited good mechanical property, thermal stability, the gradient decrease in surface resistance, gradient increase in surface current from the up to down segments, as well as excellent biocompatibility. Especially, the membranes promoted the gradient proliferation and differentiation of PC12 cells in vitro. Importantly, combined with electric field (EF), the aligned BC/PPy gradient conductive membranes synergistically directed the differentiation of PC12 cells. The overall results suggest the aligned BC/PPy gradient conductive membranes with EF could be a promising therapeutic strategy to guide cellular activities for peripheral nerve regeneration.
Novel multifibrillar carbon and oxidation-stable carbon/ceramic hybrid fibers consisting of thousands of individual nanofibers with high tensile strength
Authors: Denk Jakob , Liao Xiaojian , Knolle Wolfgang , Kahnt Axel , Greiner Andreas , Schafföner Stefan , Agarwal Seema , Motz Guenter 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

In this study, multifibrillar carbon and carbon/ceramic (C/SiCON) fibers consisting of thousands of single nanofibers are continuously manufactured. The process starts with electrospinning of polyacrylonitrile (PAN) and PAN/oligosilazane precursors resulting in poorly aligned polymer fibers. Subsequent stretching leads to parallel aligned multifibrillar fibers, which are continuously stabilized and pyrolyzed to C or C/SiCON hybrid fibers. The multifibrillar carbon fibers show a high tensile strength of 911 MPa and Young’s modulus of 154 GPa, whereas the multifibrillar C/SiCON fibers initially have only tensile strengths of 407 MPa and Young’s modulus of 77 GPa, due to sticking of the nanofibers during the stabilization in air. Additional curing with electron beam radiation, results in a remarkable increase in tensile strength of 707 MPa and Young's modulus of 98 GPa. The good mechanical properties are highlighted by the low linear density of the multifibrillar C/SiCON fibers (~1 tex) compared to conventional C and SiC fiber bundles (~200 tex). In combination with the large surface area of the fibers better mechanical properties of respective composites with a reduced fiber content can be achieved. In addition, the developed approach offers high potential to produce advanced endless multifibrillar carbon and C/SiCON nanofibers in an industrial scale.
Heavy metals removal by the microalgae Chlorococcum dorsiventrale : insights from enzymatic and molecular analysis
Authors: Hmani Rihab , Elleuch Jihen , Elleuch Fatma , Drira Marwa , Michaud Philippe , Aleya Lotfi , Abdelkafi Slim , Fendri Imen 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Heavy metals are one of the main threats to marine life and ecosystems and any remedial action in that regard is urgently required. The aim of this work is to study the bioaccumulation of cadmium, chromium and lead in the microalgae Chlorococcum dorsiventrale isolated from Tunisian coastal waters along with assessing its enzymatic and molecular responses. This strain tolerated Cd and Cr accumulation while resisting that of Pb. Cd and Cr exposures elicited a decrease in chlorophyll, lipid and polysaccharide contents whereas no damages were detected following Pb treatment. For protein content, no significant changes were seen except for Pb which exhibited a slight increase after treatment with 5 mg/L. Stress defense-related genes expression using qRT-PCR revealed that exposure to Pb and Cr induced an up-regulation of catalase, superoxide dismutase and photosystem II protein D1 encoding genes while heat shock protein 70 was slightly overexpressed. As a result, removal efficiencies for Cr and Pb attained 89% and 95% respectively. The mechanisms whereby C. dorsiventrale was able to induce Cr biosorption were intracellular and extracellular adsorption while Pb was predominantly removed by adsorption.
Severe Dysphagia in a Patient with Wallenberg Syndrome and Killian Jamieson Diverticulum: A Case Report
Authors: Cotaoco Carmel , Goto Takao , Koyama Misaki , Sato Taku , Kondo Kenji , Ueha Rumi 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Lateral medullary syndrome (Wallenberg syndrome) and Killian Jamieson diverticulum are both conditions known to cause dysphagia. Here we present the first reported case of severe dysphagia due to Wallenberg syndrome and a Killian Jamieson diverticulum discovered incidentally during videofluoroscopic swallowing study.
Case Presentation
A 66-year-old male previously diagnosed with Wallenberg syndrome was referred to our hospital due to severe dysphagia. Pre-operative work-up revealed decreased left-sided pharyngeal contraction, left vocal fold paralysis, impaired laryngeal elevation, and poor upper esophageal sphincter relaxation during swallowing. Furthermore, on videofluoroscopic swallowing study, an incidental finding of a contrast-filled outpouching of the esophagus on the left, below the level of the cricopharyngeus, indicated the presence of a pharyngoesophageal diverticulum. The patient underwent bilateral cricopharyngeal myotomy with diverticulectomy, laryngeal suspension surgery, and tracheostoma revision. The diagnosis of a Killian Jamieson diverticulum was confirmed based on intra-operative findings, as the diverticular pouch was indeed seen to be located below the cricopharyngeal muscle.
Conclusion
For patients with severe dysphagia that does not improve with swallowing rehabilitation, swallowing improvement surgery is an option. It aims to improve pre-operatively identified dysfunctional sites in the swallowing mechanism. It is important to always consider pharyngoesophageal diverticula as a possible cause of dysphagia so as not to miss the diagnosis. In this patient’s case, diverticulectomy was necessary to ensure the best possible outcomes in terms of improving his dysphagia.
Assessment of Insulin Resistance, Oxidative Stress, and Liver Function in Type 2 Diabetic Patients on Dapagliflozin
Authors: Hadid Khalil A. , Alassaf Fawaz A. , Abed Mohammed N. , Alsaaty Mohammad Harith 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Investigation of the effect of dapagliflozin, on insulin resistance (InRs), glycemic control, oxidative stress (OS), and liver function in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) by evaluating the consequence of adding dapagliflozin to metformin.
Methods
This retrospective cohort study enrolled 117 participants from November 2023 to April 2024. Participants were assigned into three groups. The control group included 48 healthy individuals; the metformin group (DM + MET) included 39 patients, and the metformin and dapagliflozin group (DM + MET + DAPA) included 30 patients.
Results
The DM + MET + DAPA group had significantly higher serum insulin and InRs than the DM + MET group (p > 0.001 and 0.05 respectively). Dapagliflozin did not disrupt liver function tests. Conversely, A significant decrease in AST levels (p < 0.01) was observed compared to metformin alone. Analysis of OS markers revealed a significant increase in malondialdehyde level and a decrease in total antioxidant capacity (p < 0.01) in dapagliflozin users compared to the DM + MET group.
Conclusion
Adding dapagliflozin to metformin did not improve insulin sensitivity in type 2 diabetics who are beyond the early stage of the disease, possibly due to deteriorated OS. However, the apparent reduction in AST and neutral effect on other liver function parameters suggests dapagliflozin as an add-on therapy to metformin in diabetic liver diseases. However, routine monitoring of insulin sensitivity is recommended in this patient group.
Tunable Schottky barriers and magnetoelectric coupling driven by ferroelectric polarization reversal of In2Se3/MnI3 multiferroic heterostructures: A first-principles study
Authors: Guo Hao , Zhang Tao , Shen Jiao , Liang Ying , Fan Haidong , Jiang Wentao , Wang Qingyuan , Tian Xiaobao 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Two-dimensional (2D) multiferroic materials are recognized as promising candidates for next-generation nanodevices due to their tunable magnetoelectric coupling and distinctive physical phenomena. In this study, we proposed a novel 2D multiferroic van der Waals heterostructure (vdWH) by stacking atomic layers of ferroelectric In2Se3 and ferromagnetic MnI3. Using first-principles calculations, we found that the MnI3/In2Se3 vdWH exhibit robust metallic conductivity across various spin and polarization states, preserving the distinctive band characteristics of isolated In2Se3 and MnI3. However, the alignment of Fermi levels causes the conduction band minimum (CBM) and valence band maximum (VBM) of In2Se3 and MnI3 to shift relative to their original band structures. Remarkably, the MnI3/In2Se3 with the upward polarization state of In2Se3 exhibits an Ohmic contact. Switching the polarization direction of In2Se3 from upward to downward can transform the MnI3/In2Se3 vdWH from an Ohmic contact to a p-type Schottky contact, while also modifying its dipole moment, magnetic strength and direction. Based on these properties of MnI3/In2Se3 vdWH, we designed the field-effect transistors (FETs) with high on/off rates and nonvolatile data storage device. Furthermore, the Schottky barrier heights (SBHs), magnetic moment, and dipole moment of MnI3/In2Se3 vdWH can also be effectively regulated by reducing the interlayer distance. With the continuous reduction of the interlayer distance of MnI3/In2Se3 vdWH, its easy magnetization axis is expected to shift from in-plane to out-of-plane. These findings offer new insights for the design and development of the next-generation spintronic and nonvolatile memory nanodevices.
Surgical treatment of primary intracranial and extracranial communicating leiomyosarcoma: a case report
Authors: Pu Kuairong , Wang Tianhong , Li Zhe , Lin Xiwen , Wu Jun , Shao Dongchuan , Zhao Nan 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background: Primary intracranial-extracranial communicating leiomyosarcomas, capable of invading both the intracranial and extracranial regions and involving complex anatomical structures, are exceedingly rare neoplasms.
Case presentation: A 37-year-old male patient who initially presented with a subcutaneous mass on the left frontal vertex. Following surgical intervention, a recurrent lump appeared on the left frontotemporal vertex. Symptoms, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a lump on the left frontal vertex accompanied by an irregular abnormal lesion. On both occasions, the diagnosis of leiomyosarcoma was confirmed. The patient underwent leiomyosarcoma excision under general anesthesia. Recurrence of the leiomyosarcoma occurred 2 years and 4 months post-surgery, necessitating an expanded excision of the lesion. After 2 years of follow-up, no significant complications were observed, and the patient's condition remains stable.
Conclusion: Primary extracranial communicating leiomyosarcoma is an exceptionally rare entity, with surgery currently serving as the primary treatment modality. The decision to excise the lesion should be based on the patient’s age, tumor location, pathological features, and the presence of distant metastases.
Critical Analysis and Application of Enhanced Hunter-Prey Algorithm for MPPT in Photovoltaic Systems Under Complex Partial Shading Conditions
Authors: Li Zhuoxuan , Fu Changxin 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

The Hunter Prey Optimization (HPO) algorithm represents a novel population-based optimization approach renowned for its efficacy in addressing intricate problems and optimization challenges. Photovoltaic (PV) systems, characterized by multi-peaked shading conditions, often pose a challenge to conventional Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) techniques in accurately identifying the global maximum power point. In this research, an MPPT control strategy grounded in Improved Hunter Prey Optimization (IHPO) is proposed. Eight distinct shading scenarios are meticulously crafted to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed MPPT method in capturing the maximum power point. The performance evaluation is conducted utilizing both MATLAB simulation and an embedded system, alongside a comparative analysis with alternative power tracking methodologies, considering the diverse climatic conditions across different seasons. Simulation outcomes demonstrate the capability of the proposed control strategy in accurately tracking the global maximum power point, achieving a commendable efficiency of 100% across seven shading conditions with a tracking response time of approximately 0.2 seconds. Verification results obtained from the experimental platform illustrate a tracking efficiency of 98.75% for the proposed method. Finally, the IHPO method's output performance is evaluated on the StarSim RCP platform, indicating a substantial enhancement in the tracking efficiency of the photovoltaic system while maintaining rapid response times.
Coping and Emotional Development for Adolescents to Reduce Stress (CEDARS): Pilot test of a school-based positive psychological intervention for adolescents
Authors: Kamsickas Lisa , Stephens Jacquelyn E. , Jackson Kathryn , Heard-Garris Nia , Chang Vickie , Schoeps Konstanze , Bussolari Cori J. , Vo Dzung X. , Moskowitz Judith T. , Duncan Larissa G. 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Introduction:
This study tested the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of Coping and Emotional Development for Adolescents to Reduce Stress (CEDARS) a positive psychological intervention (PPI), tailored for adolescents and administered in a classroom setting, in boosting CEDARS skill use and emotional well-being.
Method:
Adolescents (N = 102, 45% female) aged 13-15, in four physical education classes at the same school were randomly assigned by classroom to either receive the CEDARS intervention (n = 59) or engage in the usual class activities (n = 44). Participants completed self-report measures at three time points assessing use of intervention skills, positive and negative affect, depressive symptoms, and perceived stress.
Results and Conclusion:
Groups differed significantly on race with 57% of the intervention group compared to 75% of the control group identifying as Asian or Pacific Islander. Race-adjusted analyses revealed that both groups improved on intervention skill use, negative affect, depressive symptoms, and perceived stress. The group by time interaction was significant such that the CEDARS group increased skill use from pre- to post- intervention and this difference persisted at follow-up. Contrary to hypotheses, there were also significant group by time interactions indicating that the control group had a steeper decline in depression and perceived stress from pre- to post-intervention. Students reported high acceptability and feasibility and suggested key changes to increase engagement. The current study expands on the existing PPI literature focused on adolescents and highlights the need for larger and more diverse samples, as well as developmentally- and culturally-tailored interventions.
Computed Tomography Enterography-Based Radiomics Nomograms to Predict Inflammatory Activity for Ileocolonic Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Ma Yuping , Zhu Luanxin , Cui Bota , Zhang Faming , Li Haige , Zhu Jianguo 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

ObjectivesTo develop and validate nomograms, derived from morphological features, and computed tomography enterography (CTE) -based radiomics, for evaluating inflammatory activity in patients with ileocolonic Crohn’s disease (CD).
MethodsA total of 54 CD patients (237 bowel segments) with clinically confirmed CD were retrospectively reviewed. The simple endoscopic score for Crohn’s disease (SES-CD) was used as a reference standard to quantify the degree of mucosal inflammation and evaluate the disease severity. Radiomics and image morphological features were extracted in the training cohort, and then a morphological model (M-score) and a radiomics model (Rad-score) were built respectively. A combined nomogram was further generated by incorporating M-score and Rad-score. Predictive values of each model were assessed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Calibration curve and decision curve analysis (DCA) were employed to evaluate the accuracy and clinical applicability of the nomogram in the testing cohort.
ResultsThe area under the ROC curve (AUC) of the nomogram, based on the stenosis, comb sign and Rad-score, was 0.834 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.728–0.940] for distinguishing active from remissive disease. Moreover, the nomogram built using comb sign and Rad-score also achieved satisfied AUC [0.781 (95%CI: 0.611–0.951)] in distinguishing mild activity from moderate-to-severe activity. The calibration curve and DCA confirmed the accuracy and clinical utility of both nomograms.
Conclusions Nomograms constructed by combining CTE-based radiomics and morphological features might be a useful supporting tool for grading inflammatory activity, aiding clinical decision-making for the management of CD.