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Quantifying spectral information about source separation in multisource odour plumes
Odours released by objects in natural environments can contain information about their spatial locations. In particular, the correlation of odour concentration timeseries produced by two spatially separated sources contains information about the distance between the sources. For example, mice are able to distinguish correlated and anti-correlated odour fluctuations at frequencies up to 40 Hz, while insect olfactory receptor neurons can resolve fluctuations exceeding 100 Hz. Can this high-frequency acuity support odour source localization? Here we answer this question by quantifying the spatial information about source separation contained in the spectral constituents of correlations. We used computational fluid dynamics simulations of multisource plumes in two-dimensional chaotic flow environments to generate temporally complex, covarying odour concentration fields. By relating the correlation of these fields to the spectral decompositions of the associated odour concentration timeseries, and making simplifying assumptions about the statistics of these decompositions, we derived analytic expressions for the Fisher information contained in the spectral components of the correlations about source separation. We computed the Fisher information for a broad range of frequencies and source separations for three different source arrangements and found that high frequencies were more informative than low frequencies when sources were close relative to the sizes of the large eddies in the flow. We observed a qualitatively similar effect in an independent set of simulations with different geometry, but not for surrogate data with a similar power spectrum to our simulations but in which all frequencies were a priori equally informative. Our work suggests that the high-frequency acuity of olfactory systems may support high-resolution spatial localization of odour sources. We also provide a model of the distribution of the spectral components of correlations that is accurate over a broad range of frequencies and source separations. More broadly, our work establishes an approach for the quantification of the spatial information in odour concentration timeseries.
Machine learning identified novel players in lipid metabolism, endosomal trafficking, and iron metabolism of the ALS spinal cord
AbstractAmyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease affecting motor neurons. Although genes causing familial cases have been identified, those of sporadic ALS, which occupies the majority of patients, are still elusive. In this study, we adopted machine learning to build binary classifiers based on the New York Genome Center (NYGC) ALS Consortium’s RNA-seq data of the postmortem spinal cord of ALS and non-neurological disease control. The accuracy of the classifiers was greater than 83% and 77% for the training set and the unseen test set, respectively. The classifiers contained 114 genes. Among them, 41 genes have been reported in previous ALS studies, and others are novel in this field. These genes are involved in mitochondrial respiration, lipid metabolism, endosomal trafficking, and iron metabolism, which may promote the progression of ALS pathology.
Exploring associations between the FTO rs9939609 genotype and plasma concentrations of appetite-related hormones in adults with obesity
Associations between variants in the FTO locus and plasma concentrations of appetite related hormones are inconsistent, and might not work in a dose dependent fashion in people with obesity. Moreover, it is relevant to report meal related plasma concentrations of these hormones in persons with obesity given the growing interest in their pharmacological potential in obesity therapy. We find it clinically relevant to examine associations between the SNP rs9939609 genotypes and homeostatic appetite regulation in individuals with BMI ≥35 kg/m2. This study explored associations of the rs9939609 genotypes to plasma concentrations of acylated ghrelin, active glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), and total peptide YY (PYY), and moderating effects of fat mass (FM), in 96 adults (69% female) with BMI ≥35 kg/m2, using a cross sectional observation study designed to have 1/3 of participants each with genotypes TT, AT and AA, respectively. Participants were median (25th, 75th percentile) 42.5 (32, 50) years of age, weighed 120.9 (109.6, 142.4) kg, and had a BMI of 42.8 (39.5, 46.4) kg/m2. Acylated ghrelin, active GLP-1, and total PYY were measured in the fasted state and half-hourly for 2.5h after a standardized meal. We evaluated associations between genotype and appetite hormones in regression analysis controlling for FM and sex. Genotype did not associate with fasting or postprandial (area under curve, AUC) GLP-1 or PYY. Genotype did not associate with fasting acylated ghrelin, but in females with genotype AA, increased FM was associated with higher fasting and postprandial (AUC) acylated ghrelin concentrations relative to genotypes TT (fasting p = 0.025; AUC p = 0.004) and AT (fasting p = 0.002; AUC p < 0.001). This novel finding warrants further investigation.
Reconstructing the experienced temperature during the larval oceanic migration of anguillid eels from otolith stable oxygen isotopes
Shifting temporal trends and disparities in sarcoidosis mortality in the United States: A retrospective analysis from 1999 to 2020
Introduction Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory disease characterized by granulomas, the etiology of which remains unclear. This study examines sarcoidosis-related mortality trends in the United States from 1999 to 2020, with a focus on disparities pertaining to patient sex, geographical location, and urbanization status. Methods We analyzed death certificate data from the CDC WONDER database, using ICD-10 code D86. Age-adjusted mortality rates (AAMR) per 1,000,000 people were calculated. Trends were analyzed using Joinpoint regression models to determine annual percentage changes (APC). Results A total of 37,956 Sarcoidosis-related deaths were documented from 1999 to 2020 in the United States. The AAMR increased from 3.9 in 1999 to 6.4 in 2020. Significant mortality increases were observed from 1999–2001 and again from 2018–2020. Mortality rates were consistently higher among women compared to men. A significant difference in AAMR was observed across states, with highest mortality in the South region and lowest in the West region. Urbanization trends shifted from higher AAMR rates in metropolitan to non-metropolitan areas post-2018. Non-Hispanic Black individuals experienced the highest mortality rates throughout the study period. Conclusions This study highlights significant racial and geographic disparities in sarcoidosis-related mortality. Women, Black patients, and those residing in non-metropolitan areas are at the highest risk for Sarcoidosis associated mortality. Targeted public health interventions are required to address these prevalent disparities.
Integrated analysis of miRNAs and mRNAs in thousands of single cells
AbstractThe simultaneous sequencing of multiple types of biomolecules can facilitate understanding various forms of regulation occurring in cells. Cosequencing of miRNA and mRNA at single-cell resolution is challenging, and to date, only a few such studies (examining a quite limited number of cells) have been reported. Here, we developed a parallel single-cell small RNA and mRNA coprofiling method (PSCSR-seq V2) that enables miRNA and mRNA coexpression analysis in many cells. The PSCSR-seq V2 method is highly sensitive for miRNA analysis, and it also provides rich mRNA information about the examined cells at the same time. We employed PSCSR-seq V2 to profile miRNA and mRNA in 2310 cultured cells, and detected an average of 181 miRNA species and 7354 mRNA species per cell. An integrated analysis of miRNA and mRNA profiles linked miRNA functions with the negative regulation of tumor suppressor and reprogramming of cellular metabolism. We coprofiled miRNA and mRNA in 9403 lung cells and generated a coexpression atlas for known cell populations in mouse lungs, and detected conserved expression patterns of miRNAs among lineage-related cells. Based on this information, we identified informative age-associated miRNAs in mouse and human lung cells including miR-29, which can be understood as a conserved marker for immunosenescence. PSCSR-seq V2 offers unique functionality to users conducting functional studies of miRNAs in clinical and basic biological research.
Research on the construction of an urban underground parking space color system from the perspective of psychological perception
Color, an intuitive element affecting human senses, can adapt to the environment of a space, evoke emotional responses, trigger and accumulate visual experiences, and enhance the effectiveness of color in shaping spatial atmosphere and reinforcing spatial divisions. In the context of rapid urban underground space development, examining the rational application of color in underground parking spaces is crucial for improving guidance, comfort, and aesthetics. This exploration is essential for achieving high-quality development in urban underground parking environments. Based on color psychology and using typical cities in China as case studies, this paper develops a color analytical framework for urban underground parking spaces through the process of “color field investigation—analysis of color influencing factors—color system construction—color application and control” and proposes a detailed chromatographic scheme. Within this framework, color field investigation serves as the foundation for determining color usage. Key influencing factors for color selection include color elements and their relationships, the type of underground parking space, and public color perception demands. The color system has been constructed including safe colors, prohibited colors, and theme colors, which has been further divided into basic, auxiliary, and accent colors. This study provides a replicable and practical theoretical and applied framework for urban underground space management and urban color planning. The framework facilitates the establishment of a standardized color system and chromatographic scheme that aligns with urban aesthetics and public psychology, thereby improving development quality and supporting the high-quality development of urban underground spaces.
Optical tuning of polymer functionalized zinc oxide quantum dots as a selective probe for the detection of antibiotics
Enhancing Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) performance: Analyzing the role of human resource practices in Sri Lanka’s telecommunication industry through Lewin’s change management model
In recent years, the Sri Lankan telecom industry has experienced significant expansion and transformation, leading to a notable increase in mergers and acquisitions (M&A). This study investigates the impact of human resource practices on M&A performance, utilizing Lewin’s Change Management Model as a framework. The research is based on a questionnaire survey, examining factors influencing the performance of M&A in Sri Lanka Telecom industry, such as communication (Unfreeze), training (Change), leadership (Refreeze), and performance (M&A outcomes). Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) reveals that communication significantly influences training (β = 0.800), while training has a strong effect on leadership (β = 1.062), both directly and indirectly via communication (β = 0.850). Additionally, performance is positively impacted by training (β = 0.819) and leadership (β = 0.459), with communication exerting a substantial indirect influence on performance (β = 0.655). These results underscore the necessity for an integrated approach that enhances organizational performance and adaptability in an evolving business landscape. To optimize M&A outcomes, organizations are encouraged to prioritize leadership development, invest in comprehensive training programs, and align communication strategies effectively. This research contributes valuable insights into the management of change within the telecom sector, promoting sustainable growth and success in future M&A endeavours.
Evaluating food contact surface and its influence on restaurant health ratings
The efficacy of Lacticaseibacillus paracasei MSMC39-1 and Bifidobacterium animalis TA-1 probiotics in modulating gut microbiota and reducing the risk of the characteristics of metabolic syndrome: A randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study
Modern treatment, a healthy diet, and physical activity routines lower the risk factors for metabolic syndrome; however, this condition is associated with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality worldwide. This investigation involved a randomized controlled trial, double-blind, parallel study. Fifty-eight participants with risk factors of metabolic syndrome according to the inclusion criteria were randomized into two groups and given probiotics (Lacticaseibacillus paracasei MSMC39-1 and Bifidobacterium animalis TA-1) (n = 31) or a placebo (n = 27). The participants had a mean age of 42.29 ± 7.39 and 43.89 ± 7.54 years in the probiotics and placebo groups, respectively. Stool samples, anthropometric data, and blood chemistries were taken at baseline and at 12 weeks. The primary outcome was achieved by the probiotics group as their low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol level dramatically lowered compared to the placebo group (the difference was 39.97 ± 26.83 mg/dl, p-value <0.001). Moreover, significant reductions in body weight, body mass index, waist circumference, systolic blood pressure, and total cholesterol were observed in the volunteers treated with probiotics compared to the placebo. In the gut microbiome analysis, the results showed statistically significant differences in the beta diversity in the post-intervention probiotics group. Blautia, Roseburia, Collinsella, and Ruminococcus were among the gut microbiomes that were more prevalent in the post-intervention probiotics group. In addition, this group exhibited increases in the predicted functional changes in ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters, as well as ribonucleic acid transport, the biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids, glycerophospholipid metabolism, and pyruvate metabolism. In conclusion, this research demonstrated that the probiotics L. paracasei MSMC39-1 and B. animalis TA-1 have the efficacy to lower risk factors associated with metabolic syndrome.
The cranium from the Octagon in Ephesos
RETRACTED: Short communication: Upregulation of hypoxia/reoxygenation-induced Shc3 by downregulated miR-455-5p, suppresses trophoblast invasion and is associated with placental inflammation and angiogenesis in preeclampsia
Preeclampsia is characterized by insufficient invasion of extravillous trophoblasts and is a consequence of failed adaption of extravillous trophoblasts to changes in the intrauterine environment developing embryo. Specific miRNAs are implicated in the development of preeclampsia (PE). miR-455-5p is present at low levels in PE but its role is not known. Combining cell and molecular biology methods, we provide evidence of the function and mechanism of miR-455-5p action, and identify its potential target, Shc3, in PE. In vitro, when miR-455-5p was overexpressed in HTR-8/SVneo cells they migrated and invaded more rapidly under hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) than in either hypoxic or normoxic conditions. In contrast, apoptosis of HTR-8/SVneo was reduced in H/R. Shc3 was identified as a direct downstream target gene of miR-455-5p. Overexpression of Shc3 reversed the effect of miR-455-5p, promoting apoptosis and suppressing invasion and migration of HTR-8/SVneo under H/R. Shc3 was highly expressed in H/R, but its level was reduced in isolated hypoxic or normoxic environments. Furthermore, we showed Shc3 overexpression is involved in placental inflammation and angiogenesis inhibition. Finally, we showed that the downregulation of miR-455-5p in PE contributes to increased Shc3 in extravillous trophoblasts, thereby limiting extravillous trophoblast cell invasion. Elevated Shc3 is associated with placental inflammation and angiogenesis inhibition. Thus Shc3 serves as a potential biomarker for PE diagnosis and treatment.
Xen 63 versus Preserflo MicroShunt implant in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma
Hurricane influence on the oceanic eddies in the Gulf Stream region
Bacillus coagulans alleviates hepatic injury caused by Klebsiella pneumoniae in rabbits
Background As an opportunistic bacterial pathogen, Klebsiella pneumoniae (KP) is prone to causing a spectrum of diseases in rabbits when their immune system is compromised, which poses a threat to rabbit breeding industry. Bacillus coagulans (BC), recognized as an effective probiotic, confers a variety of benefits including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Aim The purpose of this study was to investigate whether dietary BC can effectively alleviate hepatic injury caused by KP. Methods In this study, the rabbits were initially pretreated with varying doses of BC (1×106, 5×106, and 1×107 CFU/g), followed by a challenge with KP at a concentration of 1011 CFU/mL. Liver tissues were harvested and processed for histological assessment using H&E and VG stains to assess structural alterations. Biochemical assays were employed to quantify the enzymatic activities of T-SOD and GSH-Px, as well as the MDA content. Furthermore, ELISA was utilized to detect the levels of inflammatory cytokine (IL-10, IL-6, IL-1β and TNF-α) and apoptotic-related gene (Bcl-2, Bax). Results Morphological observation indicated that BC can effectively mitigate KP-induced hepatic sinusoidal dilatation and congestion, as well as ameliorate the degree of hepatic fibrosis. Further analysis showed that BC significantly lowered MDA level in KP-treated rabbits, while enhanced the activities of T-SOD and GSH-Px. Additionally, ELISA result showed that BC pretreatment significantly reduced the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-a, IL-6, IL-1β and pro-apoptotic gene Bax, while increasing the levels of anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 and anti-apoptotic gene Bcl-2 in KP-treated rabbits. Conclusion Above data indicate that BC supplementation effectively attenuated oxidative stress and inflammatory response induced by KP through augmenting the activities of antioxidant enzymes and diminishing the levels of pro-inflammatory factors. Furthermore, it reduced the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio in the liver, thereby inhibiting KP-induced apoptosis. The treatment group receiving 5x106 CFU/g BC benefitted most from the protective effect.