bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Allelic variation in the autotetraploid potato: genes involved in starch and steroidal glycoalkaloid metabolism as a case study
Authors: Li Hongbo , Brouwer Matthijs , Pup Elena Del , Lieshout Natascha van , Finkers Richard , Bachem Christian W. B. , Visser Richard G. F. 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background
Tuber starch and steroidal glycoalkaloid (SGA)-related traits have been consistently prioritized in potato breeding, while allelic variation pattern of genes that underlie these traits is less explored.
Results
Here, we focused on the genes involved in two important metabolic pathways in the potato: starch metabolism and SGA biosynthesis. We identified 119 genes consisting of 81 involved in starch metabolism and 38 in the biosynthesis of steroidal glycoalkaloids, and discovered 96,166 allelic variants among 2,169 gene haplotypes in six autotetraploid potato genomes. Comparative analyses revealed an uneven distribution of allelic variants among gene haplotypes and that the vast majority of deleterious mutations in these genes are retained in heterozygous state in the autotetraploid potato genomes. Leveraging full-length cDNA sequencing data, we find that approximately 70% of haplotypes of the 119 genes are transcribable. Population genetic analyses identify starch and SGA biosynthetic genes that are potentially conserved or diverged between potato varieties with varying starch or SGA content.
Conclusions
These results deepen the understanding of haplotypic diversity within functionally important genes in autotetraploid genomes and may facilitate functional characterization of genes or haplotypes contributing to traits related to starch and SGA in potato.
Gleditsia sinensis galactomannan-based composite hydrogel with exceptional water retention
Authors: E Yuyu , Chang Zeyu , Li Wen , Li Pengfei , Lei Fuhou , Jiang Jianxin , Duan Wengui , Yuan Shengguang , Wang Kun , Peng Xiaopeng 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
A novel epoxy-cross-linked hyaluronic acid/galactomannan composite hydrogel was prepared from Gleditsia sinensis using various alkyl glycidyl ethers as cross-linking agents. The morphological, physicochemical, and mechanical properties of the obtained hydrogels were comparatively investigated and discussed. The optimal composite hydrogel (GM/HDE/HA) exhibited high storage modulus (210 Pa), loss modulus (27.8 Pa), and water retention properties (95%). Hydrogels with high molecular weight (Mw) hyaluronic acid showed higher water retention properties than those with low-Mw hyaluronic acid (80% water retention properties). The molecular docking simulations of hyaluronic acid confirmed the higher formation energies of the high-Mw hyaluronic acid (-14.98 Kcal/mol) than that of the low-Mw hyaluronic acid (-6.90 Kcal/mol). This study offers a new design strategy for a water retention hydrogel by optimizing the cross-linked dimension with various-length polymer chains as cross-linkers. These remarkable advantages make hydrogels have enormous potential in the application of cosmetics and biomedical.
AhGSNOR negatively regulates Al-induced programmed cell death by regulating intracellular NO and redox homeostasis
Authors: Pan Chunliu , Li Xia , Jian Changge , Zhou Yunyi , Wang Aiqin , Xiao Dong , Zhan Jie , He Longfei 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Aims
The toxicity of aluminum (Al) in acidic soil inhibits plant development and reduces crop yields. Programmed cell death (PCD) is one of the important mechanisms in the plant response to Al toxicity. However, it is yet unknown if S-nitrosoglutathione reductase (GSNOR) provides Al-toxicity tolerance.
Methods
AhGSNOR was cloned and its expression was analyzed. The NO content, SNO content, and GSNOR activity in roots of wild type and AhGSNOR transgenic tobacco under different Al stress conditions were detected, as well as root elongation, cell death, antioxidant enzyme activity, H2O2 level and lipid peroxidation degree. The relationship between AhGSNOR and TRXh was also explored.
Results
Transcription and protein expression of AhGSNOR were both induced by Al stress. Both AhGSNOR-overexpressing transgenic and antisense tobacco plants exhibited a late flowering phenotype compared to the wild type, implying that stability of AhGSNOR expression is required for normal growth and development. Moreover, AhGSNOR overexpression reduced Al-induced nitric oxide (NO) and S-nitrosothiol accumulation, the inhibitory effect of Al stress on root elongation and the degree of cell death, and enhanced antioxidant enzyme activity to effectively remove hydrogen peroxide. In addition, AhTRXh directly interacted with AhGSNOR in peanut in vitro and in vivo. Expression of NtTrxh3 in AhGSNOR-overexpressing transgenic plants was significantly upregulated.
Conclusions
These results suggested that AhGSNOR was a negative regulatory factor of Al-induced PCD and improved plant Al-tolerance by modulating intracellular NO and redox homeostasis.
Regional differences, dynamic evolution, and influencing factors of high-quality medical resources in China’s ethnic minority areas
Authors: Hao Bangyan , Liang Binghua , Chen Zhuo , Huang Lifeng , Li Chengcheng 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background: In China, as people’s standard of living improves and the medical service system becomes more sophisticated, the demand for higher-quality and improved healthcare services is steadily rising. Inequality in health resource allocation (HRA) is more pronounced in ethnic minority areas (EMAs) than in developed regions. However, little research exists on high-quality medical resources (HQMRs) in China’s EMAs. Hence, we examined the spatiotemporal dynamic evolution of HQMRs in China’s EMAs from 2007 to 2021 and identified the main factors affecting their respective HQMR levels.
Methods: We selected tertiary hospitals to represent the quality of healthcare resources. We employed descriptive statistical techniques to analyze changes in the distribution of HQMRs from 2007 to 2021. We used the Dagum Gini coefficient and kernel density approach to analyse the dynamic evolution of HQMRs in China’s EMAs. We utilised the least squares dummy variable coefficient (LSDVC) to identify key factors affecting HQMR.
Results: The number of HQMRs in each EMA has risen annually. The average number of tertiary hospitals increased from 175 in 2007 to 488 in 2021. The results of the Dagum Gini coefficient revealed that the differences in the HQMR level in China’s EMAs have slowly declined, and intra-regional disparities have now become the primary determining factor influencing overall variations. The kernel density plot indicated that the HQMR level improved significantly during the study period, but bifurcation became increasingly severe. Using the LSDVC for analysis, we found that gross domestic product (GDP) per capita, the size of the resident population, and the number of students enrolled in general higher education exhibited a significant negative correlation with HQMR levels, while GDP and urbanisation rate had a significant promoting effect.
Conclusions: The HQMR level in EMAs has risen rapidly but remains inadequate. The differences in HQMR between regions have continued to narrow, but serious bifurcation has occurred. Policymakers should consider economic growth, education, and population size rather than simply increasing the number of HQMRs everywhere.
Pulse Splitting Technique for Low Sidelobe Time-Modulated Antenna Array Synthesis with Harmonic Suppression
Authors: Sallam Tarek , Attiya Ahmed M. 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
In this paper, pulse splitting approach is proposed to simultaneously reduce the sidelobe level (SLL) of fundamental signal and maximum sideband levels (SBLs) of harmonic signals for time-modulated linear array (TMLA). This is achieved by controlling only the periodic switching time sequence of each element of the TMLA. In pulse splitting, the on-off switching sequence of each radiating element is characterized by multiple rectangular sub-pulses within the modulation period which increase the degrees of freedom in order to better synthesize the desired fundamental pattern with simultaneous suppression of harmonic or sideband radiation. A genetic algorithm (GA) is employed to optimize the switch-on and switch-off instants of each sub-pulse for each element for 16-element uniform amplitude, phase, and space linear antenna array. The simulation results reveal that the proposed method can achieve the desired patterns with very low SLL and SBLs compared with previous published results.
Termites Can Learn
Authors: Ding Yifan Evan , Li Zhenghui 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

It is generally believed that termites can’t learn and are not “intelligent”. This study aimed to test whether termites could have any form of memory. A Y-shaped test device with one release chamber and two identical test chambers was designed and constructed by 3D printing. A colony of damp wood termites was harvested from the wild. Worker termites were randomly selected for experiment. Repellent odors that could mimic the alarm pheromone for termites were first identified. Among all substances tested, a tea tree oil and lemon juice were found to contain repellent odors for the tested termites, as they significantly reduced the time that termites spent in the chamber treated with these substances. As control, a trail pheromone was found to be attractive. Subsequently, a second cohort of termites were operant conditioned by punishment using both tea tree oil and lemon juice, and then tested for their ability to remember the path that could lead to the repellant odors. The test device was thoroughly cleaned between trials. It was found that conditioned termites displayed a reduced tendency to choose the path that led to expectant punishment as compared with naïve termites. Thus, it is concluded that damp wood termites are capable of learning and forming “fear memory”, indicative of “intelligence” in termites. This result challenges established presumption about termites’ intelligence.
Characterizing the Dynamics of the Single Cell Tumor Microenvironment and Immune Cell Subpopulations during the Progression of Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Lin Guo , Ge Fan , Huo Zhenyu , Jiang Zhanpeng , Yan Zeping , Kang Kai , Liang Hengrui , Wang Wei 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background
Lung cancer progression typically involves the transition from atypical adenomatous hyperplasia (AAH) to the invasive adenocarcinoma (IA) stage. The immune status in tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a critical role in governing tumor initiation and progression. Nevertheless, the precise variances in the immune microenvironment among these four states remain uncertain.
Methods
We employed diverse methodologies including single-cell, spatial, and bulk RNA-sequencing datasets to elucidate the intricate dynamics and interplay of immune cells. Leveraging the distinctions observed among the four states, we developed a prediction model utilizing machine learning techniques to assess the potential survival advantages for patients.
Results
This research involved a cohort of 52 patients representing four distinct states. Through dimension reduction and clustering techniques, we successfully identified and analyzed nine distinct cell types. In-depth investigation of cell-cell communication and spatial transcriptomics indicated variations in the epithelial-cancer-associated fibroblast (CAF) interaction across the four states. Additionally, our analysis revealed the presence of the macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) signaling pathway in all states, which was associated with notable anti-tumor biological processes. Importantly, the machine learning model based on MIF-related genes exhibited a favorable predictive probability of survival time, as evidenced by an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.68.
Conclusion
Utilizing a multi-dimensional transcriptomics approach, we conducted an in-depth characterization of the temporal evolution of the TME during the progression of LUAD. Our comprehensive analysis elucidated the intricate variances observed across the spectrum from AAH to IA states. Furthermore, we employed an immune-related machine learning model to validate our findings and accurately forecast the potential survival advantages for patients.
Longitudinal study of changes in endolymphatic hydrops assessed by intravenous gadolinium-enhanced inner-ear magnetic resonance imaging following medical treatment in patients with Ménière’s disease: a preliminary study
Authors: Kim Jong Sei , Cho Young-Sang , Ahn Jungmin , Kim Hyung-Jin , Kim Yikyung , Cho Baek Hwan , Chung Won-Ho 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Ménière’s disease (MD) is characterized by episodic vertigo, tinnitus, and hearing loss. Endolymphatic hydrops (EH) is a histologic marker of MD. We aimed to investigate whether symptom improvement following medical treatment would decrease the hydrops ratio calculated by intravenous gadolinium-enhanced inner-ear magnetic resonance imaging (IV Gd MRI) in the cochlea and vestibule. This prospective study included 9 patients diagnosed with unilateral definite MD. All patients were treated medically. Patients underwent IV Gd MRI at diagnosis and follow-up MRI at 6 months after the last vertigo attack. Differences in cochlear hydrops (CH) and vestibular hydrops (VH) ratios of the affected ear before and after medical treatment were measured. Nine patients were enrolled in this study. The hearing level was not significantly (p = 0.759) altered after treatment. Moreover, there was no significant difference in CH ratio (p = 0.083) or VH ratio (p = 0.556) between the initial and follow-up MRI scans. The hydrops ratio did not change in patients after medical control of MD was attained. Because EH did not recover even after symptoms resolved, we conclude that there is no relationship between presenting symptoms and EH.
Phenotypic variation seems not to be associated with the genetic profile in Zygopetalum (Orchidaceae): a case study of a high-elevation rocky complex
Authors: Gomes Shaiany Sabrina Lopes , Lopes Juliana Mainenti Leal , de Matos Elyabe Monteiro , Cabral Elisa Guimarães , Azevedo Ana Luisa Sousa , Machado Marco Antonio , de Campos José Marcello Salabert , Neto Luiz Menini , Viccini Lyderson Facio 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

Hybridization associated with polyploidy studies is rare in the tropics. The genus Zygopetalum (Orchidaceae) was here investigated as a case study of Neotropical plants. In the Ibitipoca State Park (ISP), Southeast, Brazil, occurring in outcrops of campos rupestres, it was observed a wide phenotypic variation involving Z. maculatum and Z. triste; individuals with intermediate colors and forms between the species are commonly identified. Chromosomal analysis and DNA amount showed a uniform population. Regardless of the aspects related to the color and shape of floral structures, all individuals presented 2n = 96 chromosomes and an average of 14.05pg of DNA. Irregularities in meiosis associated with chromosome number and C value suggest the occurrence of polyploidy. The genetic distance estimated using ISSR molecular markers revealed the existence of genetic variability, not related to morphological clusters. Morphometric measurements of the flower pieces revealed that Z. maculatum has greater variation than Z. triste but without a defined circumscription. The observed variation can be explained by the polyploid and phenotypic plasticity resulting from the interaction of the genotypes with the heterogeneous environments observed in the study area. The data together contributed to the understanding of evolutionary processes and the origin of diversity in tropical regions.
Opportunities, challenges and the way forward for biomass briquettes in Tanzania
Authors: Kimaro Jerome Gadi 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
The reported study highlights the potential for biomass briquettes as a cleaner and more sustainable alternative to traditional fuels like firewood and charcoal in Tanzania. Focus group discussions and key informant meetings were conducted, involving stakeholders from 16 regions of Tanzania's mainland. Rating scales and SWOT analysis were used to analyze the collected information. Our analysis showed that briquette technology can contribute to reducing deforestation, climate change mitigation, and employment generation. However, it also identified various challenges like market incompetency, limited access to technology, community misconceptions about briquettes, and a lack of political support. To mitigate these challenges and promote the briquette sector in Tanzania, the study suggests various interventions, particularly providing technical training and resources to accelerate production and quality assurance and engaging with policymakers to advocate for supportive policies and incentives. Additionally, developing effective marketing and distribution strategies. In conclusion, the study indicates that Tanzania has the potential to advance the biomass briquette sector, which has positive social, ecological and economic impacts. However, addressing these challenges and realizing their potential benefits will require a collaborative and multifaceted approach involving various stakeholders, like government agencies, researchers, development partners, NGOs, and local communities.
Enzymatic fat dissolution improves detection of small lymph nodes in colon cancer surgery
Authors: Kajitani Ryuji , Munechika Taro , Matsumoto Yoshiko , Nagano Hideki , Aisu Naoya , Yoshimatsu Gumpei , Yoshida Yoichiro , Hasegawa Suguru 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background
Accurate lymph node evaluation is essential for staging colon cancer and guiding postoperative treatment decisions. In this study, we compared the efficacy of a simple enzymatic fat dissolution method with that of the conventional method for lymph node sampling from specimens after colon cancer surgery.
Methods
We enrolled 58 patients who underwent elective laparoscopic surgery for colon adenocarcinoma. The specimens from these patients were treated using fat dissolution and were compared with specimens from 58 patients for which conventional manual palpation was used.
Results
A significantly greater number of lymph nodes were detected by the fat dissolution method compared with the conventional method (average per patient, 27.5 vs 22.6, P = 0.02). In particular, the between-group difference was significant for lymph nodes measuring < 5 mm (average per patient, 26.1 vs 20.9, P = 0.01). Multivariate analysis showed that, compared with the conventional method, the fat dissolution method was significantly associated with identification of lymph node metastasis. The positive rate of lymph nodes ≥ 10 mm in diameter was markedly higher along the inferior mesenteric artery than along the ileocolic artery (100% vs 52.6%).
Conclusions
Use of the fat dissolution method led to an increase in the number of small lymph nodes detected. Rates of metastasis according to lymph node size may depend on the lymph node station.
Effect of Aqueous extract of Glycyrrhiza on Rabbit Ileum in comparison Acetylcholine, Atropine and Ondansetron
Authors: Zulfiqar Tehreem , Khalid Maria , Abaid Tehseen , Malik Tooba , Anser Ammara 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background: Gastrointestinal disorders like Irritable Bowel Syndrome IBS can decrease life quality and increase risk of anxiety and depression. Drugs like Hyoscyamine, Metoclopramide, 5-HT3 receptor antagonists like Alosteron are used nowadays for its symptomatic management but their use is associated with adverse effects leading to decreased patient compliance. Nowadays natural plant-based medicine is preferred by people due to its fewer adverse effects therefore, the present study is designed to evaluate the effect of Glycyrrhiza on intestinal smooth muscle of rabbit. The aim of our study is to define the mechanism of action of Glycyrrhiza in promoting or inhibiting gut motility.
Methodology and Results: An Experimental in-vitro study was carried out in the Pharmacology Department of Services Institute of Medical Sciences Lahore in January 2023. Rabbit Ileal tissue was used. Ileal smooth muscle activity was recorded using Power lab (AD instruments). After mounting, tissue was given rest for 30 minutes after which baseline contractions were recorded. Then 0.8ml of Acetylcholine (10-5) was added and contractions were recorded for 30 seconds. The tissue was washed with Tyrode’s solution three times and then given rest for 3 minutes. Then ileal tissue was treated with Glycyrrhiza 5%,15% and 20% and their effect was recorded. Acetylcholine served as a positive control and action of Glycyrrhiza 5%, 15%, and 20% solution was compared with it. After that Glycyrrhiza was used in the presence of drugs that inhibit intestinal motility; Atropine and Ondansetron 0.0036µM and 0.036µM. Results showed that Glycyrrhiza 5%, 15% and 20% increased intestinal motility significantly (p-value<0.0001) in comparison with Acetylcholine. However, when Glycyrrhiza was used in the presence of antagonists Atropine and Ondansetron, then it reduced intestinal motility significantly (p-value<0.0001).
Conclusion: Aqueous extract of Glycyrrhiza has dual effect on gut motility that is direct muscarinic receptor agonist and indirect modulator of enteric vagus nerve terminal through serotonin 5HT3 receptors.
Long Term Clinical Outcomes of Intravascular-Imaging Guided PCI Versus Angiography-Guided PCI In Complex Coronary Lesions: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Ashraf Danish Ali , Ahmed Usman , Khan Zainab Zaib , Mushtaq Fiza , Bano Shehar , Khan Ali Raza , Azam Saad , Haroon Abdullah , Malik Salman Ahmed , Aslam Raza , Kumar Jai , Khan Farva Zaib , Ashraf Amna Binte , Kumar Sarwan 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background
In this study, we aim to discuss long term clinical outcomes of Intravascular-imaging guided PCI versus angiography-guided PCI in complex coronary lesions over a mean period of two years.
Methods
A systematic search and meta-analysis were conducted to assess the efficacy of using Intravascular Ultrasound or Optical Coherence Tomography guidance in coronary artery stenting compared to angiography. Outcome measures such as Target Lesion Revascularization, Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events, Target Vessel Revascularization, Stent Thrombosis, and Myocardial Infarction were analyzed. Risk ratios were used as the primary outcome measure. Publication bias was evaluated using a modified Cochrane Collaboration's risk of bias tool for Randomized Controlled Trials.
Results
Eleven randomized control trials with 6740 patients were included. For the primary outcome, a pooled analysis (3.2% vs 5.6%, RR 0.61, 0.48–0.77, P < 0.0001, I2 = 0%, Heterogeneity p value = 0.98) showed that the results were in favor of imaging guided PCI. For secondary outcomes, the risk was significantly low in Image guide PCI compared to angiography (4.1% vs 7.2%, RR 00.61, 00.48–0.77, P < 0.0001, I2 = 0%,Pheterogeneity = 0.99) for TVR, (1.3% vs 2.3%, RR 0.57, 0.39–0.83, P = 0.003, I2 = 0%, Pheterogeneity = 0.92) for cardiac death, (6.9% vs 11.3%, RR 0.63, 0.54–0.73, P < 0.00001, I2 = 0%, Pheterogeneity = 0.80) for MACE (Major Adverse Cardiac Events), (0.4% vs 1.3%, RR 0.40, 0.21–0.75, P = 0.004, I2 = 0%, Pheterogeneity = 0.70) for ST and (2.8% vs 3.6%, RR 0.76, 0.58–0.99, P = 0.04, I2 = 0%, Pheterogeneity = 0.63) for MI.
Conclusion
Intravascular Imaging Guided PCI is significantly more effective than Angiography Guided PCI in reducing the risk of TLR, TVR, Cardiac Death, MACE, ST.