bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Characterization of two novel HIV-1 recombinant forms (CRF01_AE/B and C/B/CRF01_AE) Among Men Who Have Sex with Men in Hebei Province, China
Authors: Jia Jianru , Zhang Bin , Chen Sisi , Shi Haoxi , Zhang Zhen , Fan Weiguang 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

In recent years, many new circulating recombinant forms (CRFs) and unique recombinant forms (URFs) of human immunodeficiency virus type one (HIV-1) have been discovered among men who have sex with men (MSM) in China. In this study, we report two HIV-1 URFs (BDL154 and BDL161) identified in the MSM population in Hebei Province, China. The phylogenetic tree and recombination analysis based on the near-full-length genome (NFLG) sequences showed that BDL154 was a recombination form originated from CRF01_AE and subtype B, whereas BDL161 consisted of subtypes C ,B and CRF01_AE. BDL154 and BDL161 contained three and eight fragments, respectively. The analysis of recombination breakpoints showed that the recombination pattern of BDL154 sequence was the insertion of one B gene fragment into the backbone of CRF01_AE, whereas the recombination pattern of BDL161 sequence was the insertion of two CRF01_AE and two B gene fragments into the backbone of subtype C. The emergence of CRF01_AE/B and C/B/CRF01_AE suggests that we should continuously monitor the recombinant forms of HIV-1 among MSM population, which can provide the data for the controlling of HIV-1 epidemic.
Genome-wide identification and expression analysis of the PP2C gene family in Apocynum venetum and Apocynum hendersonii
Authors: Chen Jiayi , Wang Yue , Wu Yongmei , Huang Xiaoyu , Qiu Xiaojun , Chen Jikang , Lin Qian , Zhao Haohan , Chen Fengming , Gao Gang 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
Protein phosphatase class 2C (PP2C) is the largest protein phosphatase family in plants, which plays an important role in plant growth and development and response to adversity stress. Apocynum is a perennial persistent herb, divided into Apocynum venetum and Apocynum hendersonii. It mainly grows in saline soil, desert and other harsh environments, and is widely used in saline soil improvement, ecological restoration, textile and medicine. It was found that Apocynum hendersonii is more tolerant of adverse conditions. The main purposeof this study was to investigate the PP2C gene family and its expression pattern under salt stress and to identify important candidate genes related to salt tolerance.
Results
In this study, 68 AvPP2C genes and 68 AhPP2C genes were identified from the genomes of Apocynum venetum and Apocynum hendersonii, respectively. They were classified into 13 subgroups based on their phylogenetic relationships and further analyzed for their subcellular locations, gene structures, conserved structural domains and cis-acting elements. The results of qRT-PCR analyses of seven AvPP2C genes and seven AhPP2C genes proved that they differed significantly in gene expression under salt stress. It has been observed that the PP2C genes in Apocynum venetum and Apocynum hendersonii exhibit different expression patterns. Specifically, AvPP2C2, 6, 24, 27, 41 and AhPP2C2, 6, 24, 27, 42 have shown significant differences in expression under salt stress. This indicates that these genes may play a crucial role in the salt tolerance mechanism of Apocynum venetumand Apocynum hendersonii.
Conclusions
In this study, we conducted a genome-wide analysis of the AvPP2C and AhPP2C gene families in Apocynum, which provided a reference for further understanding the functional characteristics of these genes.
A Novel Remote Sensing Image Encryption Scheme Based on Block Period Arnold Scrambling
Authors: Wang Guanpeng , Ye Xiaolin , Zhao Boyu 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

In this paper, a new spatiotemporal chaos model is proposed. The model is the Hash Arnold Coupled Logistic Map Lattices (HACLML) based on the Arnold Coupled Logistic Map Lattices (ACLML). By introducing hash index chain mapping, the chaotic performance of lattice is improved. Then, a novel image encryption algorithm is obtained based on the HACLML. During the scrambling phase of image encryption, a point-to-block encryption algorithm is designed. In addition, the diffusion encryption algorithm is designed according to the structure of HACLML and double hash index chain. The security analysis results show that the designed encryption algorithm has highly resistant to deciphering.
RETRACTED: Evaluation of the interaction between Fusarium culmorum isolates and Pratylenchus thornei on barley
Authors: ÖZDEMİR Fatma Gül GÖZE , ARICI Şerife Evrim , ELEKÇİOĞLU İBRAHİM HALİL , TOSUN BEKİR 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
TITLE: Cortico-Spinal Intermittent Theta Burst Stimulation Propelling Sensorimotor Function Recovery in Complete Spinal Cord Injury: Randomized Control Trial Protocol
Authors: Patel Deeksha , Banerjee Rohit , Farooque Kamran , Gupta Deepak , Garg Bhavuk , Kumar Nand , Kocchar KP , Jain Suman 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background:Intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) is a non-invasive stimulation technique to induce neuronal and synaptic plasticity. The induced cortical plasticity is imperative in the recovery of motor and sensory functions. Spinal cord injury (SCI) causes damage to neurons and results in sensorimotor dysfunction. The effect of iTBS on recovery of motor and sensory dysfunction in complete SCI (cSCI) is still elusive. This study aims to assess the effect of iTBS on cortico-spinal tract integrity, plasticity, and regaining of motor and sensory function in cSCI patients. The rationale behind using an iTBS protocol is to modify and augment the communication between spared neurons of the cortico-spinal tract and strengthen the synaptic transmission, which will improve motor function in underlying muscles.
Methods: A total of 48 patients will be recruited and randomly divided into placebo and real stimulation groups. iTBS along with a rehabilitation program will be administered to the placebo and real stimulation groups. Follow-up will be done at 1 month, 2 months, and 3 months after the intervention.
Result: The outcome of the study will be defined by electrophysiological parameters elicited by single and paired-pulse stimulation, ASIA score, pain, activities of daily life, quality of life, anxiety, depression, and biomarkers related to SCI.
Discussion: The results of this study will uncover the effectiveness of iTBS stimulation on (i) recovery of motor and sensory function in cSCI (ii) excitability of cortico-spinal tract (iii) neurological recovery and modulation of pain (iv) cortical reorganization after injury. Intermittent theta-burst stimulation (iTBS) in conjunction with an individualized rehabilitation program may serve as an integrated strategy to rejuvenate locomotor abilities and improve the overall quality of life for people with complete spinal cord injuries (SCI).
Trial Registration: The study is registered in the Clinical Trials Registry- India (CTRI) with reference number CTRI/2022/11/047038.
Analysis of Income Effects of Agricultural Technology Services on Farm Households
Authors: Shi Dongmei , Liu Meiyan , Chen Xiaoqian , Hu Jian 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Science and technology innovation is the source of agricultural economic growth, and agricultural technology services are a critical part of improving the effect of innovation. This paper analyzes the income effect of agricultural technology services provided by different subjects using PSM, RIF, etc. Overall, the income of farmers receiving agricultural technical services increased by 5.34 thousand yuan on average; the income effect is higher for farmers who grow cash crops, and the income of farmers receiving services from government departments increased by 4.67 thousand yuan. Besides, the income of farmers who receive technical guidance is at least 16.37 thousand yuan higher than those who do not, and the income of farmers who receive technical services provided by the government is 9.87 thousand yuan higher than those who choose other service providers. Moreover, agricultural technical services can narrow the income gap between farmers, especially low-income farmers, and the farmers who grow grain crops exhibit the characteristics of a “U-shaped” relationship. However, it has a greater effect on the high-income group among the farmers who grow cash crops. The technical services provided by the government are beneficial to reducing the number of low-income farmers.
To study the wastewater treatment using Bio flocculants Okra gel:
Authors: Rana Mehul Rana Mehul , Nair Anjali Nair Mrs. Anjali 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

This investigation delves into the substitute for flocculants, also referred to as bio-flocculants, used in wastewater treatment processes. Traditional sludge removal methods involve the use of Polyelectrolyte alongside coagulants like aluminum chloride, ferric chloride, and alum. Our study focuses on evaluating the efficacy of natural versus synthetic flocculants and comparing their outcomes. Parameters such as agitation settings, okra preparation techniques, and the dosage of coagulant/bio-flocculant were analyzed to determine the optimal sludge settling conditions. Utilizing quantities of 10, 15, and 20 ml for okra gel and alum respectively, we identified the most effective dosage. Plant-based flocculants emerge as superior substitutes compared to synthetic polymers due to their high efficiency and easy availability. Graphical performance analysis illustrates that okra gel can serve as a viable alternative to chemical polyelectrolytes as a flocculant. Our findings highlight the role of hydroxyl groups in okra gel, which act as active sites for removing colloidal particles during the treatment process
Epsilon Toxin Induces Cytotoxicity by Mediating Autophagy and Apoptosis Processes via the PI3K/AKT/mTOR Signaling Pathway in A549 Cells
Authors: Dashti Ayat , Hosseini Hamideh Mahmoodzadeh , Mirhosseini Seyed Ali 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
Epsilon toxin, synthesized by Clostridium perfringens, is a toxin from the class of pore-forming proteins that are associated with the development of enterotoxaemia in ruminants. As an agent of bioterrorism, exposure of toxin aerosol form causes endothelial cell damage and cytotoxicity in human lung cells. However, little information is available regarding the cytotoxicity and the mechanisms associated with lung cancer cell lines. The aim of the present study was to explore the cytotoxic effects of epsilon toxin on the human lung cell line A549 and its involvement in the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway to clarify the underlying molecular mechanism.
Methods and Results
Following treatment of A549 cells with epsilon toxin, the cytotoxicity by the MTT and LDH assays and the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), cell cycle, and cell apoptosis using flow cytometry assay as well as detection of cell apoptosis with Hoechst 33258 staining were conducted. The expression levels of apoptosis-, autophagy- and PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling-related mRNA and proteins were measured by qRT-PCR and Western blot analysis. Epsilon toxin concentration-dependently induced a reduction in cell viability and an increase in membrane leakage along with ROS generation. Epsilon toxin upregulated the levels of beclin-1, LC3 II/I, and p62 expression while downregulated the PI3K/Akt/mTOR expression levels. Epsilon toxin significantly arrested cell-cycle at the Sub-G1 phase and could further promote apoptosis in A549 cells via increasing the expression level of P53, Bax and caspase-3 while reducing the expression of Bcl-2, confirmed with annexin V/PI and Hoechst 33258 staining.
Conclusions
These findings demonstrated that the epsilon toxin-induced cytotoxicity associated with apoptosis and autophagy processes via the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway.
Cold unfolding of heat-responsive TRPV3
Authors: Wang Guangyu 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

The homotetrameric thermosensitive transient receptor potential vanilloid 1–4 (TRPV1-4) channels in sensory neurons are strongly responsive to heat stimuli. However, their cold activations have not been reported in line with the nonzero heat capacity difference during heat or cold unfolding transitions. Here, along with the experimental examinations of the predicted ring size changes in different domains against the central pore during channel gating at various temperatures, the K169A mutant of reduced human TRPV3 was first found to be activated and inactivated by cold below 42°C. Further thermoring analyses revealed distinct heat and cold unfolding pathways, which resulted in different protein thermostabilities. Thus, both cold and heat unfolding transitions of thermosensitive TRPV1-4 channels may exist once a mutation destabilizes the closed state.
Study on Internal Waves over the Bay of Bengal Using ALOS PALSAR L band SAR Imageries
Authors: Phaniharam Suryanarayanacharyulu , Vignudelli Stefano , R Harikumar , Borra Siviah , TVS Uday Bhaskar , Koluk Siva Srinivas , P Sreenivas , B Ajay Kumar , Joseph Sudheer , Nair T.M Bala Krishanan , C Satheesh 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Using ALOS PALSAR L-band SAR data, internal waves (IWs) with distinct characteristics ranging from weak manifestations to strong signatures are observed throughout the continental shelf edge of the Bay of Bengal and are not confined to a particular region or season. The wavelength, phase speed, and amplitude may vary depending upon the oceanic environmental conditions. The wavelengths computed from the present study vary from 0.17 to 4.8 km, and the phase speed ranges from 0.04 to 0.2 m/s. An attempt was made to study the morphological features of IWs using SAR imagery. IWs with different signatures (elevation and depression) were observed. Interestingly, they coexist simultaneously and crossover in the BOB. This may imply that either the IWs generated from the deep ocean propagating over shelf regions may be reflected or that river discharge may act as a force to disturb stratified layers. In this study, depressed IWs generated off the Kakinada region by the Godavari River plume were observed, and similar IW characteristics were observed in the head BOB. This may imply that many other major and minor rivers may act as another source for the generation of IWs. However, this aspect of the study needs further investigation in the BOB.
Biomechanical evaluation of double stranded knot configurations in high strengths sutures and tapes
Authors: Dhillon Mehar , Pastor Tatjana , Zderic Ivan , Hebsacker Sarina , Link Björn-Christian , Richards R Geoff , Gueorguiev Boyko , Pastor Torsten 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Purpose: Recently, a new dynamic high-strength round suture (DC) was introduced featuring a salt-infused silicone core attracting water in a fluid environment to preserve tissue approximation which is also available in tape form (DT). The aims of this study were to (1) assess the influence of securing throw number on knot security of two double-stranded knot configurations (Cow-hitch and Nice-knot) tied with either dynamic (DC and DT) or conventional round sutures (FW) and conventional suture tapes (ST), and (2) compare the ultimate force and knot slippage of (a) Cow-hitch and Nice-knot and (b) DC and DT versus FW and ST when used with their minimal number of needed securing throws.
Methods: Seven specimens of each FW, ST, DC and DT were considered for tying with Cow-hitch or Nice-knots. The base of these Cow-hitch and Nice-knots were secured with surgeons’ knots using 1–3 alternating throws. Tensile tests were conducted under physiologic conditions to evaluate knot slippage, ultimate force at rupture, and minimum number of throws ensuring 100% knot security.
Results: For both Cow-hitch and Nice-knots, 100 % security was achieved with 2 securing throws for DC, DT, ST, and with 3 securing throws for FW. With these minimum numbers of securing throws, ultimate force was significantly higher for Nice-knots versus Cow-hitch tied with DT (p=0.001) and slippage was significantly less with Nice-knots versus Cow-hitch tied with DC (p=0.019).
Conclusions: The minimum number of securing throws required to achieve 100% security was 2 with DC, DT and ST for both with Cow-hitch and Nice-knots configurations, in contrast to FW where 3 securing throws were needed. With these minimum numbers of securing throws, Nice-knots were associated with significantly higher ultimate forces when using DT and lower slippage with DC versus Cow-hitch knots.
Decoding Cab Dynamics: A Comprehensive Analysis of Ride-hailing Data
Authors: Kumawat Ashish , Litoriya Ratnesh , Chourasia Vansh , Yadav Vanshika , Dangi Vishal 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Businesses have long relied on data analytics in ways to improve operational efficiency. To fully benefit from these advantages, a thorough comprehension of the subject is required. The study analyses taxi travel data in a city using exploratory data analysis and advanced statistical approaches. It aims to identify patterns, trends, and insights in ride-hailing data, which could be useful for urban mobility planning, optimizing taxi service operations, and understanding user behaviour. The project uses Mage for ETL operations, analysing ride-hailing data, and storing it in Google BigQuery for efficient management and scalability, with SQL queries for trip details and passenger counts. The study uses Looker Studio to transform analysed data into interactive dashboards, enabling stakeholders to discover trends and improve services across platforms, integrating ETL techniques, cloud data warehousing, SQL analysis, and visualization tools.
The readiness and associate factors of implementing living wills among healthcare providers in Shenzhen: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Tang Yao , Li Mengshu , Zhu Yiran , Huo Ran , Li Xianhong 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
On January 1st, 2023, Shenzhen became the first city to legalize living wills in China. Although this unprecedented legalization, less was known about the readiness of Healthcare Professionals (HCPs) in Shenzhen in terms of implementing this Act. Our team aimed to timely examine the HCPs’ readiness in Shenzhen during the early stage of the regulation, including their knowledge, attitude and confidence to implement living wills.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted across 16 hospitals in Shenzhen, Mainland Southern China, comprising 12 Grade III hospitals, 2 Grade II hospitals, and 2 Grade I hospitals selected for convenience. A total of 685 registered physicians or nurses participated in the study. Electronic questionnaires were employed to collect data on the demographics, knowledge, attitudes, and confidence levels of HCPs.
Results
Among 685 participants, less than half of them (315, 46.0%) had adequate knowledge (score ≥ 9), and the average correct rate of knowledge was 65.4%. Most (94.0%) of participants had a positive attitude (with a score ≥ 16). About 87.0% of the participants got the higher score (≥ 16) in the confidence-to-implement assessment. The significant predictors of knowledge included having cared for terminally ill patients (OR = 1.391), income less than $4,176 per month (OR = 1.628), holding administrative positions (OR = 0.611). HCPs with bachelor’s degree (OR = 3.348) and master’s degree or above (OR = 2.645), having cared for terminal ill patients (OR = 2.564) were more likely to get positive attitude. Additionally, HCPs who participated in specific training programs on living wills (OR = 1.703) and had cared for terminal ill patients (OR = 3.035) were more likely to hold higher level of confidence.
Conclusions
Although living wills have been legalized in Shenzhen, China, HCPs are not sufficiently prepared to implement it. They get general knowledge, hold positive attitude, but are lacking legal-related knowledge or enough confidence to implement living wills. Training programs addressing living will implementation, especially including legal awareness training, understanding the roles of different HCPs in executing living wills, and how to respect patient autonomy in Chinese culture should be planned at an early stage of a policy issued.
The novel numerical solutions for Caputo-Fabruzo fractional Newell–Whitehead–SegelEquation by using Aboodh-ADM
Authors: Merdan Mehmet , Şahin Yasin , Açıkgöz Pınar 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

This article aims to solve Caputo-Fabruzo fractional differential equations using the Aboodh transform together with the Adomian Decomposition method (A-ADM). Since the Aboodh transform can only be applied to linear equations, ADM is an effective technique for approximating solutions of nonlinear differential equations. In nonlinear systems, the Newell-Whitehead-Segel equation plays an important role, explaining the emergence of stripes in 2-dimensional systems. The findings show that the results obtained from the tables provide superior results compared to the existing conformable q-Shehu homotopy analysis transform method (Cq-SHATM) in the literature. With the help of Matlab package program, numerical values were found to depict three-dimensional surfaces and displayed in a table.
ANN-Based Ground Motion and Physics-Based Broadband Models for Vertical Spectra
Authors: Sharma Varun , Arya Harsh Kumar , Gade Mahesreddy , Dhanya J 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Vertical ground motion plays a crucial role in the design of critical structures, with recorded vertical ground motions often surpassing their horizontal counterparts in the near-field. This study proposes a new simplified Ground Motion Model (GMM) for vertical spectra by combining comprehensive datasets from the NESS and NGA-West2 databases. The proposed Artificial Neural Network (ANN) architecture-based model requires only 288 unknowns to predict spectral accelerations ($Sa$) at 33 distinct periods ranging from 0 to 4 seconds. Notably, this model inherently captures known physical phenomena with reduced variability using a minimum number of unknowns compared to the GMMs existing literature, thus offering a valuable addition to current hazard estimation frameworks. Furthermore, recognizing the necessity for physics-based simulations in vertical ground motion analysis, we introduce a novel physics-based broadband model for vertical spectra using ANN methodology. The proposed broadband model exhibits better robustness due to the comprehensiveness of the dataset utilized and the inclusion of source path and site characteristics at the input layer. Additionally, the model effectively captures the physical trends with minimal deviation. Further, a comparison of the model's output with physics-based simulations for the 2008 Mw 6.9 Iwate earthquake and recorded data showcase its ability to accurately capture the non-ergodic nature of ground motion. The proposed models serve as essential tools for physics-based broadband simulations and hazard assessments in active shallow crustal regions.