bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
N6-methyladenosine-modified TRIM37 augments sunitinib resistance by promoting the ubiquitin-degradation of SmARCC2 via activating the Wnt signaling pathway in renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Luo Qiang , Dai Ting , Dong Yihong , Liang Jianpeng , Xu Zhipeng , Sun Zhixia 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Tripartite motif-containing 37 (TRIM37) is reportedly a key member of the superfamily of TRIM proteins. Emerging evidence underscores the close association between dysregulated TRIM37 expression and the progression of various human malignancies. However, the precise biological functions and regulatory mechanisms of TRIM37 remain elusive. This study aimed to elucidate the impact of TRIM37 on the chemotherapy sensitivity of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and uncover its specific molecular regulatory role. Using RT-qPCR and western blot assays, we assessed TRIM37 expression in both RCC patients and RCC cells. Through in vitro and in vivo experiments, we investigated the effects of TRIM37 silencing and overexpression on RCC cell proliferation, stemness capacity, and chemotherapy sensitivity using colony formation and sphere formation assays. Additionally, a co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) experiment was conducted to explore putative interacting proteins. Our results revealed elevated TRIM37 expression in both RCC patient tumor tissues and RCC cells. Functional experiments consistently demonstrated that TRIM37 silencing reduced proliferation and stemness capacity while enhancing chemotherapy sensitivity in RCC cells. Furthermore, we discovered that TRIM37 mediates the degradation of SMARCC2 via ubiquitin-proteasome pathways by activating the Wnt signaling pathway. In conclusion, this study not only sheds light on the biological role of TRIM37 in RCC progression but also identifies a potential molecular target for therapeutic intervention in RCC patients.
jrfapp: A Python package for joint inversion of apparent S-wave velocity and receiver function time series
Authors: Veisi Mohammad , Motaghi Seyed Khalil , Schiffer Christian 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Receiver function (RF) inversion is a well-established method to quantify a horizontally layered approximation of the S-wave velocity structure beneath a seismic station using deconvolved signals of P to S converted teleseismic earthquake waves. It is well-known that the RF inverse problem is highly non-unique and non-linear, and various tools exist that may overcome this problem. One of the most-commonly used methods is joint inversion with other seismological data that are sensitive to S-wave velocity, such as surface waves or S-waveforms. In this contribution, we present a joint inversion framework along with a Python package that implements the joint inversion of RF and the so-called apparent S-wave velocity (VS,app). We assess its performance and feasibility through several synthetic tests. Our implementation includes a pseudo-initial model estimation using two alternative methods, which helps address the inherent non-uniqueness of the joint inversion of RFs and VS,app. This implementation enhances the resolving power of the joint inversion, enabling estimation of S-wave velocities with resolution approaching that of deep controlled source seismic methods. As an illustration, we showcase a real-data example from a permanent station in the Makran subduction zone southeast of the Iranian Plateau. We compare our joint inversion results with several S-wave velocity models obtained through a deep seismic sounding profile and joint inversion of surface wave dispersion and RFs. This comparison shows that although we note a slightly lower sensitivity of our proposed method at greater depths (beyond 50 km), the method yields much better results for shallow structures compared to joint inversion of RFs and surface waves.
Physicochemical Properties, Antimicrobial activity and Docking Study of Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC)
Authors: Alamri Abdullah , Sayed Hossam , Farghaly Abdel-Rahman , Ismail Khatib Sayeed , El-Aasar Mohammed Ramadan , Ibrahim Diaa A. , Alamier Wleed , Amri Nasser 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC), a renowned natural polymer, finds versatile applications, especially in medicine. This study explores the effect of 4-(2-chloroethyl)morpholine hydrochloride, a biologically active compound, on polymer properties and biological activity. Various concentrations (1%, 5%, 10%, and 15%) from 4-(2-chloroethyl) morpholine hydrochloride in CMC were examined to assess the changes in the polymer properties and the biological impact. The results indicated that elevated antimicrobial agent percentages amplify the zone of inhibition and markedly change the polymer's thermal and optical characteristics. A higher concentration of 4-(2-chloroethyl)morpholine hydrochloride also reduces CMC degradation and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) reveals significant surface modifications. Remarkably, our compound displayed good antibacterial and antifungal activities and the suggested mechanism studies proposed that our compound could act as a potential succinate dehydrogenase inhibitor (SDHIs), which was proved by the agreeable molecular docking study. The current study could help the title compound to be a lead compound for exploring highly bioactive antimicrobial and antifungal substrates, especially the potential SDHIs.
Analysis of bituminous pavements with artificial and recycled aggregates on sustainable roads
Authors: Teijón-López-Zuazo Evelio , Vega-Zamanillo Ángel , Santos Cristina Calmeiro dos ,   David Gómez-Carrascal2
Published: October 2023

Abstract

This research carried out compares the behavior of traditional bituminous mixes with other sustainable mixes reusing recycled materials, waste or additives that improve mechanical or rheological characteristics. We have obtained the stresses and deformations in the pavement sections analyzed and the fatigue laws, determining the number of 13t axles that the material can support. For Heavy Vehicle (HV), with an Annual Average Daily Heavy Traffic (AADHT) of at least 800 HV by day (HV/d), the mixes investigated show a section durability loss of 12-15%, which can be considered acceptable. However, for minor traffic, for AADHT up to 25 HV/d, all the sustainable mixes tested improve the durability of the traditional mixes. However, for traffic below 25 HV/d, the data obtained do not recommend the use of sustainable materials in the case of a single pavement layer. As a wearing course, they can be laid in cycle paths or pedestrian areas.
First Steps Towards Facilitating the Learning of Using Wearable Lower-limb Exoskeletons withImmersive Virtual Reality
Authors: Rodriguez-Fernandez Antonio , Berg Alex van den , Cucinella Salvatore Luca , Lobo-Prat Joan , Font-Llagunes Josep M. , Marchal-Crespo Laura 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Purpose:
Wearable lower-limb robotic exoskeletons have developed rapidly in recent years for the gait rehabilitation and ambulatory assistance of people with spinal cord injury (SCI). However, the learning process to use an exoskeleton is lengthy and tedious as it requires the learning of sequential sub-tasks to trigger steps, e.g., shifting the weight between legs and hip thrust. Timely, the emergence of exoskeletons has coincided with the commercialization of low-cost head-mounted displays (HMDs) that make immersive virtual reality (IVR) a viable rehabilitation tool. HMDs could be a valuable tool to promote the learning of using exoskeletons. However, it is still an open question how immersive virtual environments should be designed to enhance the learning of this especially complex motor task.
Methods:
In this study, we developed an HMD-IVR-based system for training to control wearable lower-limb exoskeletons. The system simulates a virtual walking task of an avatar resembling the sub-tasks needed to trigger steps with an exoskeleton. We ran an experiment with forty healthy participants to investigate the effects of first- (1PP) vs. third-person perspective (3PP) and the provision (or not) of concurrent visual feedback of participants' movements on the walking performance -- namely distance walked, trunk inclination, and stride length --, as well as the effects on embodiment, usability, cybersickness, and perceived workload.
Results:
We found that all participants learned to execute the walking task. However, no clear combination of perspective and visual feedback improved the learning of all sub-tasks concurrently. Instead, the key seems to lie in selecting the appropriate perspective and visual feedback for each sub-task. In particular, the 1PP improved the stride length while training with concurrent visual feedback did not enhance learning overall. Notably, participants embodied the avatar across all training modalities with low cybersickness levels. Still, participants' cognitive load remained high, leading to marginally acceptable usability scores.
Conclusion:
Our findings suggest that to maximize learning, patients should train sub-tasks sequentially using the most suitable combination of person's perspective and visual feedback for each sub-task. This research offers valuable insights for future developments in IVR to support individuals with SCI in improving the learning of walking with wearable exoskeletons.
Identification of Adult Ixodid Tick Species by Raman Spectroscopy of Their Feces
Authors: Dou Tianyi , Holman Aidan P. , Hays Samantha R. , Donaldson Taylor G. , Goff Nicolas , Teel Pete D. , Kurouski Dmitry 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Background: Ticks and tick-borne diseases pose significant challenges to cattle production, necessitating effective control measures based on understanding tick presence, identification, abundance, and dispersal. The standard method for inspection is visual and physical examination of restrained animals, but the limitations of human sight and touch can allow for larval, nymphal, and unfed adult ticks to remain undetected due to their small size and attachment sites. However, Raman spectroscopy, an analytical tool widely used in agriculture, shows promise for tick-species identification of tick-infested cattle. Raman spectroscopy provides a non-invasive and efficient method for acquiring data by leveraging the interaction between molecules and light, allowing for the identification of molecular constituents within specimens.
Methods: Raman spectroscopy was employed to analyze the structure and composition of tick feces deposited on host skin and hair during blood-feeding. Feces from 12 ixodid tick species spanning five genera were scanned. Spectral data were subjected to a machine-learning model called partial least squares discriminant analysis. In addition, we compared and evaluated feces of the horn fly, Haematobia irritans, after feeding on cattle, using Raman spectroscopy and the same analytical procedures.
Results: Raman spectroscopy of tick feces identified six genus/sub-genus taxonomic groups at overall true prediction rates ranging from 92.3 to 100. At the species level, Raman spectroscopy identified Dermacentor albipictus, D. andersoni and D. variabilis at the overall true prediction rates of 100, 99.28 and 100, respectively. There were distinct differences between horn fly and tick feces in blood and guanine vibrational features. The overall true prediction rate for separating tick and horn fly feces was 98%.
Conclusions: Our findings highlight the proficiency of Raman spectroscopy in reliably identifying tick species through their feces and its potential for practical field-based applications to identify tick infested cattle.
Restoration through trenches does not demand organic fertilization and sawdust coverage on plant establishment
Authors: Ribeiro Sabrina Santos , Martins Walmer Bruno Rocha , Rodrigues Julia Isabella Matos , Oliveira Victor Pereira , Cruz Denis Conrado , Silva Arystides Resende , Ferreira Gracialda Costa , Lopes José do Carmo Alves , Rego Anna Kayne Costa , Schwartz Gustavo , Barbosa Rodrigo de Souza 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Forest restoration in post-open pit mining areas is complex and faces the challenge of “recreating” the soil under horizontal disruption, representing strong barriers to root growth. Hence, trenches (paths opened by digging) for planting are an alternative to improve root development conditions and plant growth. This study aimed to evaluate growth of six tree species planted in trenches under three treatments: Topsoil or control (TS), Sawdust (SD) and Cow manure (CM). The trenches (1 m in height and length by 40 m long) were filled with topsoil. In the 6-m space between trenches, two treatments were performed: soil covered and not covered by sawdust to test natural regeneration. Six tree species (250 individuals) in pits over trenches where Mean Annual Increment in height (MAIHt,), diameter (MAIDSH), crown area (MAICA), and survival were assessed. After 18 months, mortality was 2.4%, Clitoria fairchildiana, Tachigali vulgaris, and Croton matourensis showed highest MAIHt and MAIDSH, and the C. fairchildiana presented the highest MAICA with no statistical differences among treatments. Sawdust coverage had no effects on litter amounts and on tree species from the natural regeneration. Herbs and grasses covered 45.5% and 57.2% of the soil with and without sawdust. Based on growth and mortality, C. fairchildiana, T. vulgaris, and C. matarensis can be recommended for initial restoration after kaolin mining.
On Skill Transfer of Memory and Attention Technology-Based Training: A Scoping Review
Authors: Al-Kabbany Ahmad , Gamal Farah , Azzam Hoda , Said Mohamed El , Yasser Reem , Ehab Roaa 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Attention and memory skills are essential capacities that can have a profound impact on one’s life and, consequently, on society at large. There has always been a need for effective attention and memory training, which has been growing recently. This growth is due to several reasons including the increasing level of awareness on the positive influence that cognitive readiness can have on productivity in all sectors of the world’s economy. In response to this pressing need, research has focused on adopting new technologies to build innovative tools that can address this challenge. Chronologically, computer-based then mobile-based then, most recently, virtual reality (VR)-based memory and attention training frameworks have been proposed with potentially promising results. This scoping review aims at investigating the skill transfer or cross-impact of the technology-based training of memory and attention. Particularly, this review is meant to cover the computer, mobile, and VR-based training frameworks that featured the following transfer scenarios: 1) attention training to memory improvement, 2) memory training to attention improvement, 3) and cognitive training to improvements in memory and attention. In conclusion, most of the articles covered in this review indicated that near and distant transfer between different cognitive aspects do exist across diverse technologies, e.g., computer, mobile, and VR. Having such a map from frameworks to skills would help us optimize training program development and content design. While we focused on attention and memory, other cognitive aspects appeared among the affected factors including reaction time and inhibitory control.
Stability Analysis of Fractional Difference Equations with Delay
Authors: Joshi Divya , Bhalekar Sachin , Gade Prashant 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Long-term memory is a feature observed in systems ranging from neural networks to epidemiological models. The memory in such systems is usually modeled by the time delay. Furthermore, the nonlocal operators, such as the "fractional order difference" can also have a long-time memory. Therefore, the fractional difference equations with delay are an appropriate model in a range of systems. Even so, there are not many detailed studies available related to the stability analysis of fractional order systems with delay. In this work, we derive the stability conditions for linear fractional difference equations with a delay term $\tau$. We have given detailed stability analysis for the cases $\tau=1$ and $\tau=2$. The results are extended to nonlinear maps.
Mathematics Subject Classification (2020) 37E05 · 39A30 · 26A33
Assessment of Land Use /Land Cover Changes and its Future Predictions Using CA-Markov with ANN Simulation for Berhampore, West Bengal, India
Authors: Mustaquim Md. , Islam Woheeul 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Land use and land cover (LULC) change is a multifaceted and dynamic process influenced by factors like population growth, economic development, and climate shifts. This study delves into the LULC changes spanning 1991 to 2021 in Berhampore, a district headquarters in Murshidabad, West Bengal, India. Notable findings include an expansion of built-up land from 5.25–9.30%, a reduction in agricultural land from 81.98–72.36%, and an increase in plantation or forest land from 8.45–13.23%. The change transition matrix highlights significant shifts, notably the transformation of agricultural land into built-up areas (15.92 km²) and conversion to plantation or forest land (25.96 km²) and water bodies (5.54 km²). A chord diagram visually represents the transition matrix's outcomes. Utilizing the Future Land Use Simulation (FLUS) model, the study forecasts Berhampore's LULC for 2031. Forecasts indicate an ongoing increase in built-up land and a decrease in agricultural land. Concurrently, the area of plantation or forest land is projected to expand. Employing remote sensing and GIS techniques, the research tracks LULC changes and engages in a focus group discussion with local stakeholders. Findings underscore the intricate interplay between LULC, urbanization, and environmental dynamics. The study underscores the urgency of sustainable city planning, resource management, and community involvement to manage these transformations while preserving community well-being and ecological equilibrium. As cities expand and populations grow, this research highlights the imperative to balance development with environmental preservation for the greater benefit of society and nature.
Bioinformatics analysis of the role of RNA modification regulators in polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Quan Kewei , Zilin You , Gaopi Deng , Yunmei Li , Shuting Ning 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
PURPOSE: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common metabolic/endocrine disorder among women of reproductive age. The pathogenesis of PCOS is related to race, genetics, environment, hyperandrogenemia, hyperinsulinemia, and obesity. However, studies on the molecular mechanisms underlying the relationship between RNA modification and PCOS are lacking. Thus, herein, we investigated the potential common genetic and molecular pathways between RNA modification and PCOS using bioinformatics analyses.
METHODS: The GSE34526, GSE5850, and GSE98421 datasets were downloaded from the National Center for Biotechnology Information Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Intersecting differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and RNA modification-related genes (RMRGs) in the GSE34526 dataset were analyzed, and a Venn diagram was drawn. Thereafter, Gene Ontology, pathway enrichment (KEGG) analysis, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), gene set variation analysis (GSVA), and immune infiltration analysis were performed. Finally, a protein-protein interaction network and mRNA-miRNA, mRNA-RBP, and mRNA-Transcription factor (TF) regulatory networks were constructed. The ROC curves and expression of hub genes were identified.
RESULTS: The expression of several RNA modification-related DEGs (RMRDEGs) (ALYREF, AGO2, TET2, YTHDF2, and TRMT61B) differed in PCOS patients. GSEA and GSVA revealed that RMRDEGs were enriched in the hedgehog, MAPK, JAK STAT, and Notch pathways. TFs, including SP7, KLF8, HCFC1, IRF1, and MLLT1, played key roles in TF regulatory networks. CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest gene and miRNA profile alterations in PCOS patients, and confirm the existence of immune-related differences, which should unveil new directions for subsequent research into diagnosis and treatment.
Can Amblyopia of Any Severity be Treated Successfully Irrespective of a Patient’s Age?
Authors: Irfan Sameera , Aadil Nausherwan , Saqib Mohammad 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Introduction: To find out whether full visual recovery is possible in amblyopia at any age?
Materials & methods: In a prospective interventional study, 1701 consecutive cases with poor vision were included irrespective of a patient’s age. After wearing refractive correction for 8-12 weeks and no further improvement in the BCVA, amblyopia therapy was started comprising of full-time patching of good eye along with active use of amblyopic eye by reading and writing 6 hours daily. Regular two weekly follow-ups were conducted.
The endpoint of therapy was achieving a BCVA equal to that of the good eye. A regular post-patching follow-up was conducted for 1-3 years. Statistical analysis comparing the visual acuity at the start and the end of therapy was performed by a paired t-test for each group.
Results: There were 896 males and 805 female cases. 1383 cases (81.3%) had previously failed amblyopia therapy. 49 cases (2.9%) dropped out of the study due to poor compliance to therapy or an incomplete follow-up. For a simplified analysis of results, the 1701 cases were divided into three age groups: Group A: age 4-7 years (473 cases), Group B: age 8-12 years (618 cases) and Group C: age 13-46 years (610 cases). The overall success in Group A and B cases was 98% and 96.9% in Group C cases.
Conclusion: Full visual recovery is possible in amblyopia of any severity and at any age. Age of a patient at presentation should not preclude therapy.
Registry Platform: The study was registered in the WHO International Clinical Trials
Trial Registration Number: NCT02113709
Differential Pulmonary Toxicity and Autoantibody Formation in Genetically Distinct Mouse Strains Following Combined Exposure to Silica and Diesel Exhaust Particles
Authors: Janssen Lisa MF , Lemaire Frauke , Marain Nora Fopke , Ronsmans Steven , Heylen Natasja , Vanstapel Arno , Velde Greetje Vande , Vanoirbeek Jeroen AJ , Pollard K Michael , Ghosh Manosij , Hoet Peter HM 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

BackgroundInhalation of airborne particulate matter, such as silica and diesel exhaust particles, poses serious long-term respiratory health risks. Silica exposure can lead to silicosis and systemic autoimmune diseases, while DEP exposure is linked to asthma and cancer. Combined exposure to silica and DEP, common in mining, may have more severe effects. This study investigates the separate and combined effects of silica and DEP on lung injury, inflammation, and autoantibody formation in two genetically distinct mouse strains, thereby aiming at understanding the interplay between genetic susceptibility, particulate exposure, and disease outcomes. Silica and diesel exhaust particles were administered to mice via oropharyngeal aspiration. Assessments of lung injury and host response included in vivo lung micro-computed tomography, lung function tests, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid analysis including inflammatory cytokines and antinuclear antibodies, and histopathology with particle colocalization.ResultsSilica exposure elicited a well-established inflammatory response marked by inflammatory infiltrates, release of cytokines, and chemokines, alongside limited fibrosis, indicated by collagen deposition in the lungs of both C57BL/6J and NOD/ShilLtJ mice. Notably, these strains exhibited divergent responses in terms of respiratory function and lung volumes, as assessed through micro-computed tomography. Additionally, silica exposure induced airway hyperreactivity and elevated antinuclear antibody levels in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, particularly prominent in NOD/ShiLtJ mice. Lung tissue analysis revealed DEP loaded macrophages and co-localization of silica and DEP particles.ConclusionMouse strain variations exerted a substantial influence on the development of silica induced lung alterations. Furthermore, the additional impact of diesel exhaust particles on these silica-induced effects was minimal.