bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
WITHDRAWN: Prognostic Pyroptosis-Related Gene Signature and Immunotherapy Targets in Kidney Renal Clear Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Song Mengyu , Zhu Zhipeng , Geng Qilong , Chen Bo , Cao Guodong 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Background
Kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC) is a common type of renal cancer with poor prognosis and limited treatment options. Pyroptosis, a non-apoptotic form of cell death, has been shown to regulate tumor microenvironment and impact the prognosis of various cancers, including KIRC. However, the role of pyroptosis-related genes (PRGs) in KIRC remains poorly understood. Therefore, we aimed to construct a PRG signature to predict prognosis and identify potential immunotherapy targets for KIRC patients.
Methods
We utilized transcriptomic data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and identified 27 PRGs with prognostic value in KIRC. We used multivariate Cox regression analysis to identify a 5-gene signature (CASP3, CASP4, CHMP3, CHMP4A, and CHMP4C) and divided patients into high-risk and low-risk groups based on their risk scores. We then performed survival analysis and constructed a nomogram to predict the survival probability of KIRC patients. We also performed functional annotation and pathway enrichment analysis of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between high-risk and low-risk groups to identify potential immunotherapy targets.
Results
The 5-gene signature had a significant prognostic value in KIRC, as patients in the high-risk group had a poorer prognosis and shorter survival time compared with those in the low-risk group. The risk score calculated based on the signature was an independent prognostic factor. The prognostic model had excellent predictive ability, as shown by the ROC analysis and cross-validation. The DEGs between high-risk and low-risk groups were enriched in immune-related pathways,suggesting potential immunotherapy targets for KIRC.
Conclusions
We constructed a PRG signature that predicts prognosis and identifies potential immunotherapy targets for KIRC patients. The signature has excellent predictive ability and provides insights into the role of pyroptosis in KIRC. These findings could guide the development of new immunotherapy strategies for KIRC and improve the prognosis of KIRC patients.
Trial registration:
Not applicable
Didge You Sleep: A Feasibility Study of Didgeridoo Training for Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Badami Varun , Abaalkhail Nawaf , Petro Alex , Alessi Cathy , Martin Jennifer L. , Sanchez Maria Christina , Dzierzewski Joseph M. , Suarez Alex , Fung Constance H. 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Intolerance of positive airway pressure therapy for obstructive sleep apnea is common. Upper airway muscle therapies show promise as alternative treatments. The didgeridoo, which is a musical instrument, can be used for upper airway muscle training. Our goal was to develop a group-based didgeridoo training program for obstructive sleep apnea. We conducted a proof-of-concept single-arm study consisting of a structured didgeridoo training regimen. We surveyed patients at a large medical facility about their interest in the program. We developed and tested a manual of procedures for conducting a 4-session group program that instructed participants on use of the Medical Didgeridoo. We also refined procedures for baseline and 4-month follow-up assessments, which included measures of daytime sleepiness and apnea-hypopnea index. Interviews were conducted at follow-up to obtain feedback about the program. Of the 56 survey respondents, 67% reported difficulty with positive airway pressure, expressed interest in participating in a structured upper airway muscle training program, and indicated that they would be willing to practice exercises for 30 minutes per day. After in-depth screening of 15 patients, we recruited five patients to participate in the structured training program; all five completed the program and were able to learn to play basic sounds on the provided instrument, and four stated they would continue to play the Medical Didgeridoo after completion of the program. Given the significant level of interest and excellent participation in the didgeridoo training program, it may be feasible to conduct a large-scale study to assess treatment response.
Rayleigh-Monte Carlo Method for Image Noise Detection and Elimination
Authors: Abbas Jamal Kamil K. , Ruhaima Ali Abdulkadhum , Hayder Dunya Muhee , Al-Shaikhli Taha Raad 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
The issue of identifying areas of distortion in images is a common problem encountered in digital media processing. Traditional filtering methods often rely on setting thresholds that are dependent on the specific image being processed, leading to imprecise results. Adaptive filters have been proposed as a solution, but they are not without their technical difficulties. This paper presents a study on the effectiveness of the Rayleigh distribution method in identifying distortion areas in images. Monte Carlo estimation was used to estimate the distribution of image content, and the results showed that the Rayleigh distribution is highly efficient at identifying areas of distortion. The filtering process was then applied only to the regions with deformation, while ensuring that all other features of the image were preserved. The novelty of this study lies in the use of the Rayleigh distribution method to identify areas of distortion in images. The purpose of this study was to improve the quality of images by using a more precise filtering method that only targets distorted areas. The theoretical framework of this study is based on the application of the Rayleigh distribution method in digital media processing. The approach used in this study involved the use of Monte Carlo estimation to determine the effectiveness of the Rayleigh distribution method. The findings of this study show that the Rayleigh distribution method is highly effective in identifying areas of distortion in images, leading to higher quality images than traditional filtering methods. The research findings have practical implications for digital media processing industries, where the quality of images is paramount. By using the Rayleigh distribution method, images can be processed more efficiently, leading to improved quality and reduced processing time. Socially, improved image quality can have a positive impact on areas such as medical imaging, where accurate and high-quality images are crucial for diagnosis and treatment. Overall, this study offers an original and effective solution to the problem of identifying areas of distortion in images. By using the Rayleigh distribution method, images can be processed more precisely, leading to higher quality results. The use of Monte Carlo estimation provides a solid foundation for future research in this area.
Density Peaks Clustering Algorithm with Connected Local Density and Punished Relative Distance
Authors: Xiong Jingwen , Zang Wenke , Zhao Yuzhen , Liu Xiyu 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Density peaks clustering (DPC) algorithm has been widely applied in many fields due to its innovation and efficiency. However, the original DPC algorithm and many of its variants choose Euclidean distance as local density and relative distance estimations, which affects the clustering performance on some specific shaped datasets, such as manifold datasets. To address the above-mentioned issue, we propose a density peak clustering algorithm with connected local density and punished relative distance (DPC-CLD-PRD). Specifically, the proposed approach computes the distance matrix between data pairs using the flexible connectivity distance metric. Then, it calculates the connected local density of each data point via combining the flexible connectivity distance measure and k-nearest neighbor method. Finally, the punished relative distance of each data point is obtained by introducing a connectivity estimation strategy into the distance optimization process. Experiments on synthetic, real-world, and image datasets have demonstrated the effectiveness of the algorithm in this paper.
Supernumerary chromosomes contribute to karyotypic diversity within cryptic species of the subgenus Stenocranius (Cricetidae, Rodentia): comparative analyses of chromosomes and synaptonemal complexes
Authors: Pavlova Svetlana V. , Romanenko Svetlana A. , Matveevsky Sergey N. , Kuksin Aleksander N. , Dvoyashov Ivan A. , Kovalskaya Yulia M. , Petrova Tatyana V. 
Published: May 2023

Abstract

The subgenus Stenocranius includes two cryptic species, Lasiopodomys raddei and L. gregalis; the latter has three allopatric and genetically well-isolated lineages having unclear taxonomic rank. To determine possible karyotypic differences, 121 individuals from 37 localities (among them, 15 are previously unpublished sampling sites) were analysed. Besides differences in some chromosome traits, higher intra-specific karyotypic variation within L. gregalis is mostly due to various numbers of small heterochromatic acrocentric B chromosomes (Bs) whose number does not vary intra-individually. The Early Pleistocene relic L. raddei carries stable initial karyotype 2n = 36 without Bs, while among the L. gregalis lineages, the number of Bs varies from one to five: increasing from older lineage A to evolutionarily younger lineages B and C. In both cryptic species, the distribution pattern of ribosomal DNA varies in A chromosome sets and on Bs, whereas telomeric sequences are located only at the ends of all chromosomes, including Bs. Immunodetection of several meiotic proteins indicates that meio-Bs are transcriptionally inactive and have a pattern of meiotic behaviour similar to that of sex chromosomes. Further research is needed to clarify the nature, mechanisms of inheritance and stability of supernumerary chromosomes in narrow-headed voles.
Altered gut microbe metabolites in patients with AONFH: an integrated omics analysis
Authors: Yue Chen , Ma Maoxiao , Guo Jiayi , Li Hongjun , Yang Yuxia , Liu Youwen , Xu Bin 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Background
Alcohol-induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head (AONFH) is caused by excessive alcohol consumption. The gut microbiota (GM) participates in regulating host health, and its composition can be altered by alcohol. The aim of this study was to improve our understanding of the GM and its metabolites in patients with AONFH.
Methods
The GM of AONFH patients and normal controls (NCs) was characterized by analyzing fecal samples using 16S rDNA and metabolomic sequencing via liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. To identify whether GM changes at the species level are associated with gut bacteria genes or functions in AONFH patients, metagenomic sequencing of fecal samples was performed.
Results
The abundance of 58 genera differed between the NC group and the AONFH group. Klebsiella, Holdemanella, Citrobacter, and Lentilactobacillus were significantly more abundant in the AONFH group than in the NC group. Metagenomic sequencing indicated that most of the species that exhibited significantly different abundance in AONFH subjects belonged to the genus Pseudomonas. Fecal metabolomic analysis identified several metabolites that were present at significantly different concentrations in the AONFH group and the NC group; these metabolites were involved in vitamin B6 metabolism, retinol metabolism, pentose and glucuronate interconversions, and glycerophospholipid metabolism. Furthermore, we found that these differences in metabolite levels were associated with altered abundances of specific bacterial species.
Conclusions
Our study provides a comprehensive landscape of the GM and metabolites in AONFH patients and substantial evidence for interplay between the gut microbiome and metabolome in AONFH pathogenesis.
Does corruption foster income inequality in sub-Saharan African countries?
Authors: HOUSSOU Kuessi Prince , ALINSATO Alastaire Sèna 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
The aim of this paper is to analyse the effect of corruption on income inequality for Sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries. To do so, the paper uses panel data covering the period 2002–2017, the Fractional Regression Method (FRM) as well as the Generalized Moment Method (GMM-two stage system) to highlight the effect of corruption on income inequality for 44 SSA countries. The results of the estimations show that with the FRM method the corruption perception index (CPI) is statistically significant and positively affects the GINI index which represents the income inequality indicator, and with the GMM method that better governance of states in terms of controlling corruption significantly reduces income inequality. The main contribution of this research is both academic and political. On the academic side, it fills the gap in the literature on the link between corruption and income inequality, particularly in SSA. On the policy side, the paper suggests that controlling the level of corruption in the public sector by the relevant institutions should be considered one of the most effective weapons in reducing income inequality in SSA countries.
JEL Classification: O10 O43 P37
Evaluation of the use of Kolin plus™ FC (polyherbal formulation) as a natural replacer of choline chloride in weaned piglet diets: Effects on performance and blood variables
Authors: Chaves Rhuan , Leal Diego , de Paula Ygor , Boas Andreia Vilas , Toledo Ana , López-Ferrer Sígfrido , Cantarelli Vinicius , Garbossa Cesar 
Published: May 2023

Abstract

Background
Choline is a vitamin-like nutrient that plays a crucial role in several biological processes. Choline is typically added to pig diets in the form of choline chloride. However, the use of this synthetic choline has some disadvantages such as high capacity to absorb moisture, oxidative loss of vitamins in feed and its metabolism generates a compound that can taint animal-origin products. Thus, we conducted a study to evaluated the effects of feeding diets containing natural choline (Kolin plus™ FC) as a replacement of choline chloride on performance and blood variables of weaned piglets.
Results
The use of Kolin plus™ FC tended (p = 0.09) to improve the feed conversion ratio in the pre-starter II phase. No statistical differences were observed for the remaining performance variables. The mortality did not differ among treatments. There were no differences among treatments for any blood variable evaluated.
Conclusion
The polyherbal formulation Kolin Plus™ FC successfully replaced choline chloride in weaned piglet diets without compromising the growth performance and health of nursery piglets.
Organizational Capacity for Collaborative Adaptive Governance: An Empirical Assessment of a Large Landscape Network
Authors: Bixler R. Patrick , Essen Maureen , Thomsen Jennifer , Johnson Shawn , Atshan Samer , Shariatmadari Auva 
Published: May 2023

Abstract

Collaborative adaptive governance has become a prominent, if not dominant, framework for thinking about multi-scalar and cross-jurisdictional environmental management. The literature broadly and consistently suggests that learning and collaboration are two key dimensions for adaptive governance and that inter-organizational networks provide the institutional framework for addressing social-ecological system challenges. Surprisingly little scholarship addresses the influence of network structure on an organization’s capacity to engage in adaptive governance. In the following, we establish a quantifiable, statistical relationship between network structure (i.e., organizations and their arrangement among a network) and organizational capacity for collaborative adaptive governance. We use a linear network autocorrelation model (lnam) to test the relationship between organizational capacity for adaptive governance (operationalized as capacity for learning and collaboration) and how that relates to network structure across the three hypothesis: (1) that social position – operationalized as network centrality – is related to organizational capacity, (2) that subgroup or community structure – operationalized as modularity – is related to organizational capacity, and (3) that there is a social contagion effect of organizational capacity for adaptive governance. Our results identify an empirical relationship between organizational-level collaborative and learning capacity and those organizations in positions of brokerage. This work contributes to our understanding of the role of bridging organizations and networks for large-scale environmental management.
Alcohol-fueled social interactions: Modeling College student Intimate Partner Violence Perpetration, Eating Disorder Symptomatology, and Alcohol Salience
Authors: Claydon Elizabeth A. , Ward Rose Marie , Davidov Danielle M. , Zullig Keith J. 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Intimate partner violence (IPV) perpetration’s relationship with alcohol salience to college experience and eating disorder (ED) symptomatology is not well understood. Midwestern university students (n=1,580) participated in an online survey. Structural equation models examined the relationship between these variables. All models fit the data well, however, the risk factors of IPV perpetration or alcohol use were not significantly associated with ED symptomatology. However, IPV perpetration was significantly associated with both alcohol use (β = .13, p < .01) and alcohol salience (β = .11, p < .01). College students reported higher levels of perpetration and alcohol salience, which may indicate alcohol-fueled social interactions.
Encapsulation of an ultraviolet filter into cationic polystyrene particles via emulsion polymerization with poly(vinyl alcohol)
Authors: Yamazaki Takashi , Shimizu Minori , Yamada Sayuri , Kanda Rina , Tsuji Toshikazu 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Highly effective organic ultraviolet (UV) filters, such as diethylamino hydroxybenzoyl hexyl benzoate (DHHB), are widely used in sunscreens; however, they have remarkably low solubility in water, which limits their use in water-based cosmetics. In this study, DHHB-encapsulated cationic polystyrene particles (PS-DHHB) dispersed in water were prepared via emulsion polymerization. Before polymerization, an emulsifying styrene monomer phase containing dissolved DHHB and a water phase containing low-molecular-weight poly(vinyl alcohol) were prepared, and subsequent polymerization yielded PS-DHHB particles. Crucially, the addition of polystyrene (PS) to the monomer phase contributed to a high solid content, and PS served as a stabilizer, enhancing the encapsulation efficiency of DHHB. Notably, the synthesized PS-DHHB exhibited UV absorption in a range similar to that of DHHB. Furthermore, even when aqueous alcohol (used as an antibacterial agent) was added, no DHHB was leached from the PS-DHHB particles. Finally, we found that the cationic PS-DHHB particles suppressed hair protein loss induced by UV light (320–400 nm) more effectively than cationic PS particles without DHHB. In summary, water-dispersed PS-DHHB particles exhibiting effective UV absorption and adsorption onto hair were developed, and these particles have applications in polymer science and cosmetics.
Carbon Dioxide Gas Permeation Study of Polydimethylsiloxane Membrane Modified Using 3-Aminopropyltriethoxysilane
Authors: Cheong Ying Huay , Shi Linggao , Lai Li Sze 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Greenhouse gas (GHG) emission, especially carbon dioxide (CO2), is increasing significantly and contributing to global warming and climate change. To address this issue, effective CO2 separation technology is required to separate CO2 from industrial flue gases prior to their release into the environment. Among various CO2 separation methods, membrane technology appears promising due to its attractive advantages, such as low fabrication cost, high energy efficiency and small carbon footprint. This study aimed to improve CO2 gas permeation of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) membrane through chemical grafting. 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) containing an amino group was used to modify the surface of the PDMS membrane. The PDMS membrane grafted with APTES was characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy and Differential Scanning Calorimetry. The gas permeation performance of the PDMS membrane was evaluated in terms of CO2 permeance, nitrogen (N2) permeance and CO2/N2 ideal selectivity. After being surface modified using APTES, the PDMS membrane experienced a two-fold increment in the CO2/N2 ideal selectivity.
Dependency on mangroves ecosystem services is modulated by socioeconomic drivers and socio-ecological changes – insights from an insular biodiversity hotspot
Authors: Merven Raphael , Appadoo Chandani , Florens Vincent , Iranah Pricila 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Small island developing states (SIDS) display high biodiversity due to their insular situation but suffer from a disproportionate vulnerability to climate change, economic and environmental shocks. In Mauritius, a SIDS located the Indian Ocean, mangroves ensure essential ecological functions and support coastal communities’ livelihoods, they are however threatened by continuous degradations. In 2020, communities on the southeast of the island experienced compounded overlapping effects of a global pandemic and an ecological crisis, with impacts on livelihoods and well-being. This same area is known for its extent of mangroves. While regulating and provisioning services of mangroves are well documented, this study elucidates some of the lesser-known cultural values attached to mangroves and the ways in which communities depend on them for their well-being. Based on a multi-dimensional ecosystem services framework, an in-person survey was implemented between August and October 2021 in coastal villages on the east-southeast of Mauritius, totalling 281 surveyed households of Mauritians in middle- to low-income categories with livelihoods associated to fishing and/or tourism. The collected data was analysed through distribution analysis, multiple correspondence analysis and logarithmic regression. Our results show that two thirds of respondents depend on mangrove ecosystem services with low (37.2%) to medium and high (26.3%) dependencies. Dependency on mangroves is materialized through cultural services, and as a support for food security and income generation. Socio-economic drivers and multiple crises play a direct and indirect role in mangrove dependency. Study results suggest that precarious households have higher levels of dependency, and are subsequently more vulnerable to mangroves degradation and socio-ecological changes. The impact of changes and socio-economic parameters are therefore essential dimensions to take into account for coastal management and biodiversity conservation policy design in an insular context.