bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Identification of candidate genes for feed efficiency and growth traits in Wenchang chickens
Authors: Cai keqi , liu Ranran , Wei Limin , Wang Xiuping , cui Huanxian , Luo Na , Wen Jie , Chang Yuxiao , Zhao Guiping 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
Wenchang chickens are one of the most popular local chicken breeds in the Chinese chicken industry. However, the low feed conversion efficiency is the main shortcoming of this breed. Therefore, we urgently need to find a more precise breeding method to improve the feed efficiency of Wenchang chickens. In this study, we explored important candidate genes and variants for feed efficiency and growth traits by genome-wide association study (GWAS) analysis.
Results
Estimates of genomic heritability for growth and feed efficiency traits, including residual feed intake (RFI), average daily food intake (ADFI), average daily weight gain (ADG), body weight at 87, 95, 104, 113 days of age (BW87, BW95, BW104 and BW113), ranged from 0.05 to 0.44. Important candidate genes were screened related to feed efficiency and growth traits were screened, including PLCE1, LAP3, MED28, QDPR, LDB2 and SEL1L3 genes.
Conclusion
The results identified important candidate genes for feed efficiency and growth traits in Wenchang chickens and provide a theoretical basis for development of new molecular breeding technology.
WWP1 localizes in the Golgi apparatus and contributes to maintaining glycosaminoglycan synthesis in adipocytes
Authors: Nozaki Yuka , Suwa Fumika , Furuya Kazuhiro , Komeno Masahiro , Hoshino Shunsuke , Mizunoe Yuhei , Higashi Kyohei , Kobayashi Masaki , Higami Yoshikazu 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

White adipocytes are a major component of white adipose tissue (WAT) and help to maintain systemic metabolic homeostasis because they store energy and secrete adipokines. In mice deficient in the protein WWP1 (WW domain-containing E3 ubiquitin protein ligase 1) oxidative stress in adipocytes is increased but insulin resistance induced by obesity is improved. However, the specific roles of WWP1 in adipocytes remain unclear. Here, we show that in 3T3L1 adipocytes WWP1 is localized in the Golgi apparatus and can protect the Golgi apparatus from monensin-induced disruption. By contrast, WWP1 knockdown by short hairpin RNA not only failed to protect the Golgi apparatus but also enhanced Golgi apparatus disruption by monensin. The Golgi apparatus acts as a central organelle to establish accurate protein glycosylation of proteoglycans containing glycosaminoglycans, including chondroitin sulfate (CS) and heparan sulfate (HS). Thus, we measured the amount of CS and HS and found that WWP1 overexpression increased CS and HS levels, whereas WWP1 knockdown decreased them. Furthermore, obesity-related increases in HS were prevented by WWP1 knockout in adipose tissue. In summary, we show that WWP1 in adipocytes localizes to the Golgi apparatus and may protect Golgi apparatus structure by contributing to the synthesis of proteoglycans.
Effects of Intra-Session Exercise Sequence and Circadian Rhythms on Physical Capacity and Sleep Quality in Obese Women
Authors: Cho Yeong-Hyun , Seo Tae-Beom 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the effects of exercise orders and circadian rhythms on body composition, blood lipids, physical fitness and upper- and lower-extremity muscular functions in adult obese women. Forty-four women with obesity were divided into the obesity control group (OCG), aerobic-resistance exercise in the morning group (ARMG), resistance-aerobic exercise in the morning group (RAMG), aerobic-resistance exercise in the evening group (AREG), and resistance-aerobic exercise in the evening group (RAEG). The combined exercise program consisted of treadmill exercise and weight training, and all participants performed the exercise for 8 weeks. Body weight, body mass, body mass index and fasting glucose were significantly decreased in the RAMG at post. while other body compositions and blood lipids did not change at the post compared the baseline. Upper-and lower-extremity muscular functions and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index value was significantly lower in all exercise groups versus OCG. Our findings provide new evidence that resistance-aerobic exercise order in the morning might positively improve body weight, body mass, body mass index and fasting glucose in obese women. In addition, physical fitness and upper- and lower-extremity muscular functions and sleep quality might be improved by performing regular exercise programs regardless of exercise order and timing.
Unveiling pathogenic and non-pathogenic FGF14 repeat expansions: identification, sequence, and secondary structure
Authors: Depienne Christel , Mohren Lars , Erdlenbruch Friedrich , Leitão Elsa , Kilpert Fabian , Hönes G. Sebastian , Thieme Andreas , Sturm Marc , Park Joohyun , Schlüter Agatha , Ruiz Montserrat , Prida Moisés Morales de la , Casasnovas Carlos , Becker Kerstin , Roggenbuck Ulla , Pechlivanis Sonali , Kaiser Frank , Synofzik Matthis , Wirth Thomas , Anheim Mathieu , Haack Tobias , Lockhart Paul , Jöckel Karl-Heinz , Pujol Aurora , Klebe Stephan , Timmann Dagmar , Kaya Sabine , Schroeder Christopher 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Repeat expansions in FGF14cause autosomal dominant late-onset cerebellar ataxia (SCA27B), with pathogenic thresholds estimated between 250 and 300 AAG repeats. However, the complete sequences of pathogenic and non-pathogenic alleles remain largely unknown. Here, we identify FGF14 repeat expansions as the most commonly missed cause of cerebellar ataxia using a combination of short-read genome sequencing, long-range PCR and nanopore sequencing. We compare FGF14 alleles in 154 patients with ataxia and 802 controls and report an enrichment of pure FGF14 expansions above 180-220 repeats in patients. Conversely, AAGGAG and interrupted alleles are more frequent in controls. Distinct 5'-flanking regions correlate with repeat stability. SCA27B patients have a characteristic phenotype, including frequent episodic ataxia and downbeat nystagmus, similar to those with a novel nonsense variant (SCA27A). Interestingly, pathogenic and non-pathogenic repeats form different secondary structures. Our results emphasize the importance of sequencing both the repeat expansion and its flanking region for accurate clinical interpretation.
Transfer of ethanol to a solvent during Fermentation in the Presence of Agitation
Authors: Sirkar Amalesh , Roy Sebak , Sahu Somak Jyoti 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

The aqueous phase mass transfer coefficient (Kaq) for ethanol transfer to the organic phase during fermentation has been successfully correlated with various system parameters in the presence of suspended yeast flocs under agitated conditions. In particular, a semi-empirical correlation of Kaq with the rpm of the stirrer, the void space in the broth, and the surface area of dead cells has been developed. In general, it has been found that Kaq increases with the rpm of the stirrer and the ratio of the void volume to the dead cell surface area. Kaq' increases marginally though with higher incubation time at a given rpm of stirrer. The correlation is valid within a period of 12 to 30 hours of incubation time. The RPM range is 200 to 300 and the ratio of void volume to dead cell surface area ratio ranged from 3.86×10-4 to 1.69×10-3 meter. The fermentation time required was only 25 to 30 hours compared to conventional fermentation systems, where it takes a minimum of 40 to 48 hours. The organic phase mass transfer coefficient (Korg) is 300 to 500 times higher than Kaq. This is due to the drag of the yeast floc surfaces to the ethanol transferring eddies from the bulk to the interface.
Anesthesia management of bilateral femur shaft fracture and left tibiofibular fracture for bilateral sign nail and tibiofibular sign with cervical spine injury and epidural hematoma: a case report
Authors: Tadesse Shitalem , Daniel Tenbite 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Preoperative evaluation by an anesthetist must be performed since 70% of patients with a femur fracture will have an American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score of III to IV. Although they occur rarely between 1 and 7%, bilateral femur fractures are linked to significant morbidity and mortality. Previous reports have described anesthetic management for aged patients who have bilateral femur fracture is difficult and needs team and increased perioperative complications. This case emphasizes the necessity to prepare adequately and improve knowledge and awareness of anesthetic management of patients for bilateral femur fracture and tibiofibular fracture for aged patients and needs multidisciplinary team to cooperate and increase the positive outcome of the patients. Patients with these conditions may present with various sign and symptoms that complicate the administration of anesthesia. Decisions regarding when to operate either before resuscitation or after the patient is resuscitated are one area of concern and consider preserving organ damage from secondary complications and maintain hemodynamic stability to ensure the anesthesia management is optimal and to increase the good outcomes of the patient. Case report: A 50 year old male presented with bilateral femur shaft fracture and left tibiofibular fracture following road traffic accident and was planned for bilateral sign nail and left tibiofibular sign. Patient has cervical spine injury and epidural hematoma. Patient has undergone general anesthesia with endotracheal tube. Conclusion: We present a successful anesthetic management of patients who had bilateral femur fracture and left tibiofibular fracture with cervical spine injury and epidural hematoma. We emphasize the risk of neurological injury while extending the neck during laryngoscopy for tracheal intubation due to cervical spine injuries and we preferred to general anesthesia over spinal anesthesia due to contraindicated for spinal anesthesia in these patients. A detailed pre anesthetic evaluation and multidisciplinary approach as well as planning is utmost important and the anesthetic technique has to be individualized based on the patients anatomical characteristics and associated co-morbidities.
Early detection of low QRS voltage and its association with mortality in patients with sepsis
Authors: Na Soo Jin , Ko Ryoung-Eun , Chung Chi Ryang , Yang Jeong Hoon , Oh Dong Kyu , Lee Su Yeon , Park Mi Hyeon , Lee Haein , Lim Chae-Man , Suh Gee Young 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Various electrocardiographic changes occur during sepsis, but data on the clinical importance of a low QRS voltage in sepsis are still limited. We aimed to evaluate the association between low QRS voltage identified early in sepsis and mortality in patients with sepsis. Between September 2019 and December 2020, all consecutive adult patients diagnosed with sepsis in the emergency room or general ward at Samsung Medical Center were enrolled. Patients without a 12-lead electrocardiogram recorded within 48 hours of recognition of sepsis were excluded. In 432 eligible patients, 12-lead electrocardiogram was recorded within the median of 24 minutes from the first recognition of sepsis, and low QRS voltage was identified in 115 (26.6%) patients. The low QRS group showed more severe organ dysfunction and had higher levels of N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide. The hospital mortality was significantly higher in the low QRS voltage group than in the normal QRS voltage group (49.6% vs. 28.1%, p < 0.001). Similarly, among the 160 patients who required intensive care unit admission, significantly more patients in the low QRS group died in the intensive care unit (35.9% vs. 18.2%, p = 0.021). Low QRS voltage was associated with increased hospital mortality in patients with sepsis.
Deep Neural Network Modeling for Brain Tumor Classification Using Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopic Imaging
Authors: Bjørkeli Erin Beate , Johannessen Knut , Geitung Jonn Terje , Karlberg Anna Maria , Eikenes Live , Esmaeili Morteza 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

This study is motivated by the intricate and expert-demanding nature of magnetic resonance spectroscopy imaging (MRSI) data processing, particularly in the context of brain tumor examinations. Traditional approaches often involve complex manual procedures, requiring substantial expertise. In response, we explore the application of deep neural networks directly on raw MRSI data in the time domain. With brain tumors posing significant health concerns, the imperative for early and accurate detection is paramount for effective treatment. While conventional MRI methods face limitations in rapid and accurate spatial evaluation of diffusive gliomas, accuracy and efficiency are compromised. In contrast, MRSI emerges as a promising tool, offering insights into tissue chemical composition and metabolic alterations. Our proposed model, leveraging deep neural networks, is specifically designed for spectral time series analysis and classification tasks. Trained on a dataset comprising synthetic and real MRSI data from brain tumor patients, the model aims to distinguish MRSI voxels indicative of pathologies from healthy ones. Our results demonstrate the model's robustness in domain transformation, seamlessly adapting from synthetic spectra to in vivo data through a fine-tuning process. Successful classification of MRSI voxels of glioma from healthy tissues underscores the model's potential in clinical applications, signifying a transformative impact on diagnostic and prognostic evaluations in brain tumor examinations. Ongoing research endeavors are directed towards validating these integrated approaches across larger datasets, with the ultimate goal of establishing standardized guidelines and further enhancing their clinical utility.
Research on the Early Warning Indicator System for Public Safety Risks in County Areas of the Yangtze River Delta Region during Urbanization Process
Authors: Ke Yin 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

China's intense urbanization has profoundly impacted county-level societies, leading to increased diversity and contradictions, and pushing these communities towards a risk society. This is especially pronounced in the Yangtze River Delta, a region of peak urbanization. The stability and progress of these local societies are vital for the region's overall high-quality development. Yet, with ongoing urbanization, these areas face numerous challenges. To effectively tackle these issues, a robust system encompassing pre-evaluation, early warning, and emergency preparedness is essential. This study explores the relationships and structures among various risk factors using grounded theory analysis. Furthermore, it applies the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) to develop a comprehensive risk early warning index system, significantly enhancing the response capabilities to public security challenges in the Yangtze River Delta's county-level societies.
Application of learning portfolio assessment model based on the OBE concept in clinical practice teaching: A controlled study
Authors: Zhang Li , Yang Guangyao , Yang Fen , Peng Yun , Guo Jing 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
The reform of medical education evaluation currently focuses on implementing outcome-based education and process assessments. This study aims to explore the effectiveness of a learning portfolio assessment model based on the outcome-based education (OBE) concept in clinical practice.
Methods
This study employed a quasi-experimental research design. Undergraduate students pursuing an eight-year clinical program and enrolled in 2014 and 2015 cohorts who participated in the internship program from 2020 to 2022 were set as the control group (n = 53, using the traditional evaluation system) and the experimental group (n = 54, using the learning portfolio assessment based on the OBE concept), respectively. After clinical rotations concluded, evaluations included theoretical examinations in the core subjects of internal medicine, surgery, obstetrics, and pediatrics; the National Medical Licensing Examination (NMLE); and a satisfaction survey questionnaire on practical teaching effectiveness.
Results
The experimental group demonstrated superior performance in the theoretical end-of-rotation examinations and the NMLE compared to the control group (P < 0.05). The experimental group exhibited higher satisfaction with the internship through questionnaire, but the difference was not statistically significant (P > 0.05).
Conclusions
The learning portfolio assessment model based on the OBE concept enhanced the students’ clinical practical skills, overall clinical scores, and satisfaction with practical teaching.
Low muscle quality index is associated with increased risk of advanced fibrosis in adult patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: NHANES 2011-2014
Authors: Tantai Xinxing , Ran Qiuju , Wen Zhang , Tuo Shuyue , Liu Na , Dai Shejiao , Wang Jinhai , Qiao Chenyang 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Muscle quality index (MQI) is a novel indicator reflecting the quality of skeletal muscles. The association between MQI and the development of advanced fibrosis in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is unknown. We investigated the association of low MQI with advanced fibrosis among adults with NAFLD using a nationally representative sample of the U.S. population. Adults with NAFLD who participated in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011–2014 were included. Sex-specific standard was used to define low and extremely low MQI. Univariate and multivariate logistic regressions were used to assess the association between MQI level and advanced fibrosis. In the study, 3,758 participants with NAFLD were included. The prevalence of low and extremely low MQI was 11.7% (95% CI: 10.4%-13.0%) and 2.2% (95% CI: 1.6%-2.8%), respectively. Among these participants, 96 were assessed to have advanced fibrosis. Individuals with low [(odds ratio (OR) 2.45, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.22–4.91)] and extremely low MQI (OR 10.48, 95% CI 3.20–34.27) were associated with advanced fibrosis in multivariable analysis. A linear trend relationship was also observed between MQI level and the risk of advanced fibrosis (Ptrend = 0.001). Subgroup and sensitivity analyses yielded similar results to the main analyses. Decreased MQI is highly prevalent, and is associated with an increased risk of advanced fibrosis in adult US population with NAFLD.
Mental health competencies are stronger determinants of well-being than mental disorder symptoms in both psychiatric and non-clinical samples
Authors: Zábó Virág , Erát Dávid , Vargha András , Vincze Ágnes , Harangozó Judit , Iváncsics Máté , Farkas Judit , Balogh Gábor , Pongrácz Fanni , Bognár Judit , Nagy Enikő , Gonda Xenia , Purebl György 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
The present study aimed to investigate whether the strength of mental health capacities and the severity of mental disorder symptoms, and their interaction, differ in the strength of their associations with several dimensions of well-being in Hungarian adult psychiatric and non-clinical samples. All respondent in the psychiatric sample (129 patients (44 male, 85 female)) and in the non-clinical community sample (253 adults (43 male, 210 female)) completed the Mental Health Test, six measures of well-being and mental health, and the Symptom Checklist-90-Revised. Including both mental health competencies and mental disorder symptoms in a regression model in both samples can predict patients' well-being even more accurately. Mental health competencies were positively related; mental disorder symptoms were negatively related to subjective well-being. In all models and in both samples, mental health functioning was found to be a stronger determinant of well-being than mental disorder symptoms. The interaction of mental health competencies and mental disorders is no more predictive of well-being in either psychiatric or non-clinical samples than when the effects of each are considered separately. The assessment of mental health competencies has an important predictive value for well-being in the presence of psychopathological symptoms and/or mental disorders.
Experts’ prediction of the actual item difficulty of multiple-choice questions in the Ethiopian Undergraduate Medicine Licensure Examination
Authors: Gedamu Shewatatek , Tadesse Tefera , Moges Belay , Schauber Stefan 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Background
The ability of expert ratings to predict the difficulty level of items to identify test-taker performance is an important aspect of licensure exams. Expert judgment is used as a primary source of information for users to make prior decisions to determine the pass rate of test takers. The nature of the raters involved in predicting item difficulty is central to setting credible standards. Therefore, this study aimed to assess and compare raters' prediction and actual MCQ item difficulty of the 2022 Ethiopian undergraduate medicine licensure examination (UGMLE).
Method
200 Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs) of the 2022 cohort of 815 UGMLE examinees were used in this study and seven physicians participated in the difficulty level ratings. Then, analysis was conducted to understand experts' rating variation in predicting the computed actual difficulty levels of examinees. Descriptive statistics to profile the rater’s assessment results and ANOVA to examine differences between the raters' estimations of the difficulty levels of the MCQs were computed. Additionally, regression analysis was used to understand the interrater variations in their predictions of difficult levels compared to actual difficult levels of MCQs.It was also used to examine the proportion of variation that each rater explained in the predictions of actual difficulty levels across the whole set of MCQs and all UGMLE fourteen domains.
Results
The study revealed statistically significant differences in the mean difficult level ratings of some raters and moderate to high positive linear relationships with some exam domains. But also, statistically nonsignificant relationships were found in some other domains. Thus, considerations have been needed on the observed variability in difficult-level rating values across raters and UGMLE domains. In the regression results, experts' ratings accounted for 33% of the variations in the actual UGMLE difficulty levels. Between the expert-rated and actual difficulty levels, the regression model showed a moderately positive linear correlation (R = 0.57) that was statistically significant at p = .05.
Conclusion
This study demonstrated the complex nature of rating the level of difficulty of MCQs on UGMLE and the benefits of employing prior expert ratings. To improve a rater's rating accuracy in UGMLE, designing strategies in line with the changing nature of assessment methods guarantees to maintain the required reliability and validity of the exam.