bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transmural Ultrasonography in the Evaluation of Horse Hoof Internal Structures: Comparative Qualitative Findings—Part 1
Authors: Castro-Mesa Andrés Felipe , Resende Faleiros Rafael , Martínez-Aranzales José Ramón
Published: June 2023

Ultrasonography is commonly used to evaluate equine lameness-related structures, but traditional hoof approaches cannot adequately visualize internal structures such as the lamellar layer. To address this limitation, we used 62 healthy hooves without digital radiographic abnormalities, made up of thirty anatomical pieces (phase 1) and thirty-two hooves from living horses (phase 2). In both phases, half of the digits were submerged in water (group 1) and the other half in water and ice (group 2) for 24 h. Ultrasonographic views and temperature and humidity measurements were taken every two hours, and sagittal sections were obtained in phase 1. Good quality images were obtained in both phases. The transmural technique allowed the evaluation of several structures of the DEJ (tubular and lamellar strata of the hoof wall, sublamellar dermis, and solar and coronary papillae) and of the distal phalanx (extensor process, parietal surface, and apex). Our findings suggest that the transmural technique following hoof submersion can be useful for internal evaluation of hoof conditions, such as laminitis. However, further validation of the technique in natural or experimental cases is required.
Discriminant Analysis Approach in Morphometric Differentiation and Characterization of Serbian Autochthonous Goats
Authors: Maksimović Nevena , Cekić Bogdan , Ćosić Ivan , Ružić Muslić Dragana , Caro Petrović Violeta , Stojiljković Nenad , Stanišić Nikola
Published: June 2023

This study investigated the possibility of using morphometric measurements to differentiate the autochthonous Serbian White goat breed from Saanen and Balkan goats, which were used as sire and dam breeds in its creation. For this purpose, a multivariate discriminant analysis was used. A total of 11 morphometric traits were measured in 98 does of 3 breeds: Saanen (n = 28), Balkan (n = 28), and Serbian White (n = 42), aged 2 to 7 years, in 4 different locations. Univariate analysis of variance revealed a significant difference in body measurements of all three breeds, with Saanen goat being the largest in format and Balkan the smallest. Discriminant analysis extracted six out of eleven tested morphometric traits with the strongest discriminatory power: heart girth, head length, chest depth, head width, pelvic width, and body length. Mahalanobis distances were significant between all three genetic groups. The discriminant function correctly classified 95.24% of the Domestic White goats investigated to their source group. The classification accuracy of the function was cross-validated and indicated an overall success rate of 91.84%. The results of this research showed that there was a clear separation between Serbian White, Saanen, and Balkan goats. The present findings could help a more rapid field assessment of Serbian White goats.
Short-Term Thermal Stress Affects Immune Cell Features in the Sea Urchin Paracentrotus lividus
Authors: Murano Carola , Gallo Alessandra , Nocerino Aurora , Macina Alberto , Cecchini Gualandi Stefano , Boni Raffaele
Published: June 2023

Due to global warming, animals are experiencing heat stress (HS), affecting many organic functions and species’ survival. In this line, some characteristics of immune cells in sea urchins subjected to short-term HS were evaluated. Paracentrotus lividus adult females were randomly divided into three groups and housed in tanks at 17 °C. In two of these tanks, the temperatures were gradually increased up to 23 and 28 °C. Celomatic fluid was collected after 3 and 7 days. The coelomocytes were morphologically typed and evaluated for their mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), lipoperoxidation extent (LPO), and hydrogen peroxide content (H2O2). Respiratory burst was induced by treatment with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA). HS caused a significant change in the coelomocytes’ type distribution. MMP increased in the 23 °C-group and decreased in the 28 °C-group at both 3 and 7 days. LPO only increased in the 28 °C-group at 7 days. H2O2 progressively decreased together with the temperature increase. Respiratory burst was detected in all groups, but it was higher in the 17 °C group. In conclusion, the increase in temperature above the comfort zone for this animal species affects their immune cells with possible impairment of their functions.
Classification of Daily Body Weight Gains in Beef Calves Using Decision Trees, Artificial Neural Networks, and Logistic Regression
Authors: Grzesiak Wilhelm , Zaborski Daniel , Pilarczyk Renata , Wójcik Jerzy , Adamczyk Krzysztof
Published: June 2023

The aim of the present study was to compare the predictive performance of decision trees, artificial neural networks, and logistic regression used for the classification of daily body weight gains in beef calves. A total of 680 pure-breed Simmental and 373 Limousin cows from the largest farm in the West Pomeranian Province, whose calves were fattened between 2014 and 2016, were included in the study. Pre-weaning daily body weight gains were divided into two categories: A—equal to or lower than the weighted mean for each breed and sex and B—higher than the mean. Models were developed separately for each breed. Sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and area under the curve on a test set for the best model (random forest) were 0.83, 0.67, 0.76, and 0.82 and 0.68, 0.86, 0.78, and 0.81 for the Limousin and Simmental breeds, respectively. The most important predictors were daily weight gains of the dam when she was a calf, daily weight gains of the first calf, sex of the third calf, milk yield at first lactation, birth weight of the third calf, dam birth weight, dam hip height, and second calving season. The selected machine learning models can be used quite effectively for the classification of calves based on their daily weight gains.
Reduced Prognostic Role of Serum PCT Measurement in Very Frail Older Adults Admitted to the Emergency Department
Authors: Russo Andrea , Salini Sara , Gava Giordana , Merra Giuseppe , Piccioni Andrea , De Matteis Giuseppe , Tullo Gianluca , Novelli Angela , Petrucci Martina , Gasbarrini Antonio , Landi Francesco , Franceschi Francesco , Covino Marcello
Published: June 2023

Background: This study aims to evaluate the prognostic role of serum PCT in older patients with suspect sepsis or infective diagnosis in the Emergency Department (ED) with a particular focus on the clinical consequences and characteristics due to frailty status. Methods: This is a observational retrospective study conducted in the ED of a teaching hospital. We identified all consecutive patients aged ≥ 80 years admitted to the ED and subsequently hospitalized for clinical suspicion of infection. Inclusion criteria were: age ≥ 80 years and clinical suspicion of infection; availability of a PCT determination obtained < 24 h since ED access; and Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS) determination. Study endpoints were the diagnostic accuracy of PCT for all-cause in-hospital death, infective diagnosis at discharge, and bloodstream infection. Diagnostic accuracy was calculated via ROC analysis and compared in the patients with severe frailty, measured by CFS > 6, and patients with low or moderate frailty (CFS 1–6). A multivariate analysis was performed to calculate the adjusted odds of raised PCT values for the study endpoints. Results: In total, 1459 adults ≥ 80 years with a clinical suspicion of infection were included in the study cohort. The median age of the sample was 85 years (82–89), with 718 (49.2%) males. The multivariate models revealed that, after adjusting for significant covariates, the PCT values at ED admission were significantly associated with higher odds of infective diagnosis only in the fit/moderately frail group (Odds Ratio [95% CI] 1.04 [1.01–1.08], p 0.009) and not in very frail patients (Odds Ratio [95% CI] 1.02 [0.99–1.06], p 0.130). Similarly, PCT values were significantly associated with higher odds of in-hospital death in the fit/moderately frail group (Odds Ratio [95% CI] 1.01 [1.00–1.02], p 0.047), but not in the very frail ones (Odds Ratio [95% CI] 1.00 [0.98–1.02], p 0.948). Conversely, the PCT values were confirmed to be a good independent predictor of bloodstream infection in both the fit/moderately frail group (Odds Ratio [95% CI] 1.06 [1.04–1.08], p < 0.001) and the very frail group (Odds Ratio [95% CI] 1.05 [1.03–1.07], p < 0.001). Conclusions: The PCT values at ED admission do not predict infective diagnosis, nor are associated with higher odds of in-hospital death. Still, in frail older adults, the PCT values in ED could be a useful predictor of bloodstream infection.
Metallothioneins, a Part of the Retinal Endogenous Protective System in Various Ocular Diseases
Authors: Jamrozik Daniel , Dutczak Radosław , Machowicz Joanna , Wojtyniak Alicja , Smędowski Adrian , Pietrucha-Dutczak Marita
Published: June 2023

Metallothioneins are the metal-rich proteins that play important roles in metal homeostasis and detoxification. Moreover, these proteins protect cells against oxidative stress, inhibit proapoptotic mechanisms and enhance cell differentiation and survival. Furthermore, MTs, mainly MT-1/2 and MT-3, play a vital role in protecting the neuronal retinal cells in the eye. Expression disorders of these proteins may be responsible for the development of various age-related eye diseases, including glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and retinitis pigmentosa. In this review, we focused on the literature reports suggesting that these proteins may be a key component of the endogenous protection system of the retinal neurons, and, when the expression of MTs is disrupted, this system becomes inefficient. Moreover, we described the location of different MT isoforms in ocular tissues. Then we discussed the changes in MT subtypes’ expression in the context of the common eye diseases. Finally, we highlighted the possibility of the use of MTs as biomarkers for cancer diagnosis.
Effect of Crocetin on Basal Lipolysis in 3T3-L1 Adipocytes
Authors: Cimas Francisco J. , De la Cruz-Morcillo Miguel Ángel , Cifuentes Carmen , Moratalla-López Natalia , Alonso Gonzalo L. , Nava Eduardo , Llorens Sílvia
Published: June 2023

Crocetin (CCT) is a natural saffron-derived apocarotenoid that possesses healthy properties such as anti-adipogenic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities. Lipolysis is enhanced in obesity and correlates with a pro-inflammatory, pro-oxidant state. In this context, we aimed to investigate whether CCT affects lipolysis. To evaluate CCT’s possible lipolytic effect, 3T3-L1 adipocytes were treated with CCT10μM at day 5 post-differentiation. Glycerol content and antioxidant activity were assessed using colorimetric assays. Gene expression was measured using qRT-PCR to evaluate the effect of CCT on key lipolytic enzymes and on nitric oxide synthase (NOS) expression. Total lipid accumulation was assessed using Oil Red O staining. CCT10μM decreased glycerol release from 3T3-L1 adipocytes and downregulated adipose tissue triglyceride lipase (ATGL) and perilipin-1, but not hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL), suggesting an anti-lipolytic effect. CCT increased catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, thus showing an antioxidant effect. In addition, CCT exhibited an anti-inflammatory profile, i.e., diminished inducible NOS (NOS2) and resistin expression, while enhanced the expression of adiponectin. CCT10μM also decreased intracellular fat and C/EBPα expression (a transcription factor involved in adipogenesis), thus revealing an anti-adipogenic effect. These findings point to CCT as a promising biocompound for improving lipid mobilisation in obesity.
Gender Differences in Oxidative Stress in Relation to Cancer Susceptibility and Survival
Authors: Allegra Alessandro , Caserta Santino , Genovese Sara , Pioggia Giovanni , Gangemi Sebastiano
Published: June 2023

Genetic, developmental, biochemical, and environmental variables interact intricately to produce sex differences. The significance of sex differences in cancer susceptibility is being clarified by numerous studies. Epidemiological research and cancer registries have revealed over the past few years that there are definite sex variations in cancer incidence, progression, and survival. However, oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction also have a significant impact on the response to treatment of neoplastic diseases. Young women may be more protected from cancer than men because most of the proteins implicated in the regulation of redox state and mitochondrial function are under the control of sexual hormones. In this review, we describe how sexual hormones control the activity of antioxidant enzymes and mitochondria, as well as how they affect several neoplastic diseases. The molecular pathways that underlie the gender-related discrepancies in cancer that have been identified may be better understood, which may lead to more effective precision medicine and vital information on treatment options for both males and females with neoplastic illnesses.
Advances in the Manufacturing Process of Space Maintainers in Pediatric Dentistry: A Systematic Review from Traditional Methods to 3D-Printing
Authors: Zarean Paridokht , Zarean Parichehr , Sendi Pedram , Neuhaus Klaus W.
Published: June 2023

Background: Three-dimensional (3D) printing is an innovative technology widely used in dentistry for manufacturing objects of various shapes using different materials. It has gained increasing popularity in the field of pediatric dentistry, particularly in the production of space maintainers, which serve as a preventive orthodontic treatment following the early loss of primary molars. Aims: In this systematic review, we present a comprehensive overview of the manufacturing process for space maintainers, ranging from traditional procedures to the advancements in 3D printing technology. Materials and Methods: Our review adheres to the PRISMA criteria and includes scientific articles published until 27 May 2023, without any restriction on the publication period and language. To conduct our research, we searched electronic databases, such as Medline, Web of Science, and Embase, using specific keywords and MeSH terms. Results: We identified 9 articles that discussed the CAD/CAM manufacturing and 3D printing of various types of space maintainers. Conclusions: Based on this systematic review, it is evident that 3D-printed space maintainers offer great potential as an alternative to conventionally processed ones, by addressing their limitations. However, further studies are required to evaluate the accuracy, efficacy, and clinical success rates of different 3D printing technologies, materials, and designs for additive manufacturing of space maintainers.
Tensiometric and Thermodynamic Study of Aliphatic and Aromatic Amine in Aqueous D-Glucose Solutions: A Comparative Study
Authors: Tasneem Shadma
Published: June 2023

The surface tensions of aqueous taurine (TAU) and tyramine (TYR) with D-glucose mixed solvents were elevated from 298.15 to 318.15 K by the KSV sigma 702 tensiometer. The purpose of the study was to elucidate comparative studies of the thermodynamic and transport aggregation properties of aliphatic and aromatic amine, i.e., taurine and tyramine, which provide information in pharmacology and biochemistry. The experimental data investigated by this study were utilized to evaluate various interfacial parameters, including surface pressure, surface excess concentration, and other thermodynamic parameters of surface assembly, which are discussed in terms of solute–solvent and solute–solute interactions. The surface tension data have been analyzed using the Gibbs adsorption isotherm. The results signify that the negative isotherm exhibited by the ionic solute, i.e., taurine, an aliphatic amine, is contrary to the positive isotherm of tyramine, a biogenic aromatic amine. Both the amines exhibit surface properties such as surfactant molecules, which is elucidated in terms of ionic–hydrophilic and hydrophobic–hydrophobic interactions. The positive entropy values state that the process of surface formation is favored by entropy gain as well as the enthalpy effect. The present system provides a better understanding of the intermolecular interactions, which are required for their usefulness in the field of nutrition, pharmacy, and the food industry.
Area-Efficient Realization of Binary Elliptic Curve Point Multiplication Processor for Cryptographic Applications
Authors: Aljaedi Amer , Jamal Sajjad Shaukat , Rashid Muhammad , Alharbi Adel R. , Alotaibi Mohammed , Alanazi Dalal J.
Published: June 2023

This paper proposes a novel hardware design for a compact crypto processor devoted to elliptic-curve point multiplication over GF(2233). We focus on minimizing hardware usage, which we obtain using an iterative bit–serial finite field modular multiplier for polynomial coefficient multiplication. The same multiplier is also used for modular squares and inversion computations, further optimizing the hardware footprint. Our design offers flexibility by permitting users to load different curve parameters and secret keys while keeping a low-area hardware design. To efficiently generate the control signals, we utilize a finite-state-machine-based controller. We have implemented the proposed crypto processor on Virtex-6 and Virtex-7 FPGA devices, and we have evaluated its performance at clock frequencies of 100, 50, and 10 MHz. Specifically, for one point multiplication computation on Virtex-7 FPGA, our crypto processor uses 391 slices, attains a maximum frequency of 161 MHz, has a latency of 4.45 ms, and consumes 77 mW of power. These results, along with a comparison to state-of-the-art designs, clearly demonstrate the practicality of our crypto processor for applications requiring efficient and compact cryptographic computations.
Mesoscopic Effects of Interfacial Thermal Conductance during Fast Pre-Melting and Melting of Metal Microparticles
Authors: Minakov Alexander , Schick Christoph
Published: June 2023

Interfacial thermal conductance (ITC) affects heat transfer in many physical phenomena and is an important parameter for various technologies. The article considers the influence of various mesoscopic effects on the ITC, such as the heat transfer through the gas gap, near-field radiative heat transfer, and changes in the wetting behavior during melting. Various contributions to the ITC of the liquid-solid interfaces in the processes of fast pre-melting and melting of metal microparticles are studied. The effective distance between materials in contact is a key parameter for determining ITC. This distance changes significantly during phase transformations of materials. An unusual gradual change in ITC recently observed during pre-melting below the melting point of some metals is discussed. The pre-melting process does not occur on the surface but is a volumetric change in the microstructure of the materials. This change in the microstructure during the pre-melting determines the magnitude of the dispersion forces, the effective distance, and the near-field thermal conductance. The knowledge gained can be useful for understanding and optimizing various technological processes, such as laser additive manufacturing.
Formation of Rational Sets of Machines for Excavation Work in Urban Areas
Authors: Lapidus Azariy , Topchiy Dmitriy , Kuzmina Tatyana , Efimov Vladimir
Published: June 2023

The study is aimed at developing a tool for the formation of a rational set of machines for excavation work in urban areas. The instrument to be developed will affect the main project parameters, such as the project cost and term of implementation. An expert survey was launched among the leading specialists of the construction industry to make a set of significant parameters and identify the weighting ratio, since both are required to select the machines for rational sets designated for excavation work in urban environments. The equation of multiple regression was solved to determine the extent of significance by calculating Fisher’s ratio. This equation shows that significant parameters are inter-related and can be used in this method. A method for making a rational set of machines, designated for the performance of excavation work in urban environments, has the following stages: at the first stage, the choice of the necessary excavation work at the construction site is made; at the second stage, limitations, arising at the site, are introduced; at the third stage, the minimum number of major machines is determined; at the fourth stage, a rational set of machines is made step by step. If implemented, this study demonstrates the high economic efficiency of the proposed method of expanding excavation work in urban environments. The study shows that the use of a mathematical model will boost the project’s success, as it demonstrates the critical factors of risk at the initial stage of the life cycle of a construction project.
Non-Probabilistic Reliability Analysis of Slopes Based on Fuzzy Set Theory
Authors: Shu Suxun , Qian Jiajun , Gong Wenhui , Pi Kang , Yang Zhiquan
Published: June 2023

Aimed at the problem of fuzzy uncertainty of geotechnical parameters in slope stability analysis, a non-probabilistic reliability analysis method for slopes based on fuzzy set theory is proposed. Geotechnical parameters are described as fuzzy numbers, which are transformed into interval numbers at different cut set levels by taking fuzzy sets. The corresponding non-probabilistic reliability indexes and failure degrees of the slope are calculated by the non-probabilistic reliability analysis method based on the ellipsoidal model, and then the overall failure degree of the slope is obtained by weighted average to judge the stability state of the slope. The feasibility of the method was verified by a case analysis. The results show that the type and shape parameters of the fuzzy affiliation function of geotechnical parameters have a great influence on the non-probabilistic reliability of the slope. The slope failure degrees obtained from trapezoidal fuzzy numbers were larger, the slope failure degrees obtained from triangular fuzzy numbers and normal fuzzy numbers were medium, and the slope failure degrees obtained from lognormal fuzzy numbers were smaller. When considering soil parameters as triangular fuzzy numbers, normal fuzzy numbers, or lognormal fuzzy numbers, with the reduction of the shape parameters, the non-probabilistic reliability indexes of the slope increased while the failure degrees decreased. Additionally, adopting the overall failure degree to evaluate the stability of the slope can effectively solve the problem where the calculation results are too conservative (if the non-probabilistic reliability index is greater than 1) to judge the stability state of the slope in the traditional non-probabilistic reliability method.
A Percentile Method to Determine Cold Days and Spells in Bangladesh
Authors: Alam Md. Mahbub , Mahtab A. S. M. , Ahmed M. Razu , Hassan Quazi K.
Published: June 2023

The 10th percentiles (10P) of the daily minimum (Tmin) and maximum (Tmax) during 1971–2000 were determined to estimate a threshold for cold days. This 10P (a standard of extreme climatic condition suggested by the World Meteorological Organization) threshold was applied with the daily Tmin and Tmax in the winter months (December, January, and February) of 2000 to 2021 to calculate the number of cold days, and consecutively, cold spells, and their trends. A cold day was declared when the daily Tmax and/or Tmin was lower than that of the 10P threshold, and the average temperature was ≤17 °C in a weather station. In this research, the cold days and spells were categorized into five classes, namely extreme (≤13 °C), severe (>13–14 °C), very (>14–15 °C), moderate (>15–16 °C), and Mild (>16–17 °C). Moreover, a cold spell was considered when such cold days persisted for ≥2 consecutive days in at least two nearby stations. The results revealed a higher number of average cold days during winter in the western and northwestern districts of Bangladesh, and it reduced gradually in the south, southeast, and northeast. Dinajpur and Rajshahi districts showed the highest number of extreme and severe categories of cold days, i.e., 4.81 and 3.24 days/year, respectively. Rajshahi division had the highest number of cold spells on average (3.24/year), and Rangpur division had the highest number of extreme-category (the category that carries the lowest temperature range, ≤13 °C) cold spells (1.29/year). January was the coldest month, with the maximum number of cold days and spells. The highest average number of cold days (25.54%) was observed during the second ten days of January (i.e., 11–20 January). Significant increasing trends were found in the cold days of 11–20 December (5 stations), 21–31 December (3 stations), and the month of December (13 stations). In contrast, significant decreasing trends were noticed for the 1–10 January period in three weather stations. Our proposed 10P method could be used to determine the cold days and spells in Bangladesh that might be useful for the policy makers in formulating appropriate strategies in minimizing the impact of cold regimes during the winter season.
Instability of Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation: Observations, Modelling and Relevance to Present and Future
Authors: Liu Zhengyu
Published: June 2023

The Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) has changed dramatically during the glacial–interglacial cycle. One leading hypothesis for these abrupt changes is thermohaline instability. Here, I review recent progress towards understanding thermohaline instability in both observations and modelling. Proxy records available seem to favor thermohaline instability as the cause of the abrupt climate changes during the glacial–deglacial period because the deep North Atlantic water mass and AMOC seemed to have changed before the North Atlantic climate. However, most fully Coupled General Circulation Models (CGCMs) so far seem to exhibit monostable AMOC, because (1) these models have failed to simulate abrupt AMOC changes unless they are forced by an abrupt change of external forcing and, (2) these models have shown opposite freshwater convergence from the current observations. This potential model bias in the AMOC stability leaves the model projection of the future AMOC change uncertain.
Bakry–Émery Curvature Sharpness and Curvature Flow in Finite Weighted Graphs. Implementation
Authors: Cushing David , Kamtue Supanat , Liu Shiping , Münch Florentin , Peyerimhoff Norbert , Snodgrass Ben
Published: June 2023

In this paper, we discuss the implementation of a curvature flow on weighted graphs based on the Bakry–Émery calculus. This flow can be adapted to preserve the Markovian property and its limits as time goes to infinity turn out to be curvature sharp weighted graphs. After reviewing some of the main results of the corresponding paper concerned with the theoretical aspects, we present various examples (random graphs, paths, cycles, complete graphs, wedge sums and Cartesian products of complete graphs, and hypercubes) and exhibit various properties of this flow. One particular aspect of our investigations is asymptotic stability and instability of curvature flow equilibria. The paper ends with a description of the Python functions and routines freely available in an ancillary file on arXiv or via github. We hope that the explanations of the Python implementation via examples will help users to carry out their own curvature flow experiments.
Hamiltonian Indices of Three Classes of Graphs Obtained from Petersen Graph
Authors: Lv Shengmei , Zhao Liying
Published: June 2023

In this paper, we mainly consider the Hamiltonian indices of three classes of graphs obtained from Petersen graph, that is, the minimum integer m of m-time iterated line graph Lm(G) of these three classes of graphs such that Lm(G) is Hamiltonian. We show that the Hamiltonian indices of those graphs obtained by replacing every vertex of Petersen graph with a n-cycle or a complete graph of order n, or adding n pendant edges to each vertex of Petersen graph are both 2. In addition, we also study the situations of adding an edge to these three classes of graphs and obtain that their Hamiltonian indices are both 2.
Identifying Intraoperative Spinal Cord Injury Location from Somatosensory Evoked Potentials’ Time-Frequency Components
Authors: Li Hanlei , Gao Songkun , Li Rong , Cui Hongyan , Huang Wei , Huang Yongcan , Hu Yong
Published: June 2023

Excessive distraction in corrective spine surgery can lead to iatrogenic distraction spinal cord injury. Diagnosis of the location of the spinal cord injury helps in early removal of the injury source. The time-frequency components of the somatosensory evoked potential have been reported to provide information on the location of spinal cord injury, but most studies have focused on contusion injuries of the cervical spine. In this study, we established 19 rat models of distraction spinal cord injury at different levels and collected the somatosensory evoked potentials of the hindlimb and extracted their time-frequency components. Subsequently, we used k-medoid clustering and naive Bayes to classify spinal cord injury at the C5 and C6 level, as well as spinal cord injury at the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine, respectively. The results showed that there was a significant delay in the latency of the time-frequency components distributed between 15 and 30 ms and 50 and 150 Hz in all spinal cord injury groups. The overall classification accuracy was 88.28% and 84.87%. The results demonstrate that the k-medoid clustering and naive Bayes methods are capable of extracting the time-frequency component information depending on the spinal cord injury location and suggest that the somatosensory evoked potential has the potential to diagnose the location of a spinal cord injury.
Feasibility Study of 3D FACT and IVIM Sequences in the Evaluation of Female Osteoporosis
Authors: Zhang Shuo , Guo Qianrui , Yang Yang , Feng Hongbo , Zhao Yan , Guo Peng , Li Di , Du Xuemei , Song Qingwei
Published: June 2023

Background: The aim of this study is to search for the predictive value of 3D fat analysis and calculation technique (FACT) and intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) parameters in identifying osteoporosis in women. Methods: We enrolled 48 female subjects who underwent 3.0 T MRI, including 3D FACT and IVIM sequences. Bone mineral density (BMD) values and Fracture Risk Assessment (FRAX) scores were obtained. Proton density fat fraction (PDFF) in the bone marrow and the real diffusion (D) value of intervertebral discs were measured on 3D FACT and IVIM images, respectively. Accuracy and bias were assessed by linear regression analysis and Bland–Altman plots. Intraclass correlation coefficients were used to assess the measurements’ reproducibility. Spearman’s rank correlation was applied to explore the correlation. MRI-based parameters were tested for significant differences among the three groups using ANOVA analyses. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed. Results: The PDFF of the vertebral body showed a negative correlation with BMD (R = −0.393, p = 0.005) and a positive correlation with the FRAX score (R = 0.706, p < 0.001). The D value of intervertebral discs showed a positive correlation with BMD (R = 0.321, p = 0.024) and a negative correlation with the FRAX score (R = −0.334, p = 0.019). The area under the curve values from the ROC analysis showed that the 3D FACT and IVIM sequences could accurately differentiate between normal and osteoporosis (AUC = 0.88 using the PDFF; AUC = 0.77 using the D value). The PDFF value demonstrated a sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of 78.6%, 89.5%, 84.6%, and 85.0%, respectively, in its ability to predict osteoporosis. The D value had a sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV of 63.16%, 92.9%, 65.0%, and 77.8%, respectively, for predicting osteoporosis. Conclusions: The 3D FACT- and IVIM-measured PDFF and D values are promising biomarkers in the assessment of bone quality and fracture risk.
Electrochemical Devices in Cutaneous Wound Healing
Authors: Evans J. Parker , Sen Chandan K.
Published: June 2023

In healthy skin, vectorial ion transport gives rise to a transepithelial potential which directly impacts many physiological aspects of skin function. A wound is a physical defect that breaches the epithelial barrier and changes the electrochemical environment of skin. Electroceutical dressings are devices that manipulate the electrochemical environment, host as well as microbial, of a wound. In this review, electroceuticals are organized into three mechanistic classes: ionic, wireless, and battery powered. All three classes of electroceutical dressing show encouraging effects on infection management and wound healing with evidence of favorable impact on keratinocyte migration and disruption of wound biofilm infection. This foundation sets the stage for further mechanistic as well as interventional studies. Successful conduct of such studies will determine the best dosage, timing, and class of stimulus necessary to maximize therapeutic efficacy.
In Vitro Cytotoxicity of Antiresorptive and Antiangiogenic Compounds on Oral Tissues Contributing to MRONJ: Systematic Review
Authors: Guirguis Robert H. , Tan Leonard P. , Hicks Rebecca M. , Hasan Aniqa , Duong Tina D. , Hu Xia , Hng Jordan Y. S. , Hadi Mohammad H. , Owuama Henry C. , Matthyssen Tamara , McCullough Michael , Canfora Federica , Paolini Rita , Celentano Antonio
Published: June 2023

Background: Invasive dental treatment in patients exposed to antiresorptive and antiangiogenic drugs can cause medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ). Currently, the exact pathogenesis of this disease is unclear. Methods: In March 2022, Medline (Ovid), Embase (Ovid), Scopus, and Web of Science were screened to identify eligible in vitro studies investigating the effects of antiresorptive and antiangiogenic compounds on orally derived cells. Results: Fifty-nine articles met the inclusion criteria. Bisphosphonates were used in 57 studies, denosumab in two, and sunitinib and bevacizumab in one. Zoledronate was the most commonly used nitrogen-containing bisphosphonate. The only non-nitrogen-containing bisphosphonate studied was clodronate. The most frequently tested tissues were gingival fibroblasts, oral keratinocytes, and alveolar osteoblasts. These drugs caused a decrease in cell proliferation, viability, and migration. Conclusions: Antiresorptive and antiangiogenic drugs displayed cytotoxic effects in a dose and time-dependent manner. Additional research is required to further elucidate the pathways of MRONJ.
The Influence of Cleaning Solutions on the Retention of Overdenture Attachment Systems
Authors: Monteiro Sofia , Barreiros Pedro , Mendes Joana , Aroso Carlos , Silva António Sérgio , Mendes José Manuel
Published: June 2023

Dental-implant-supported reconstructions provide comfort and improvements in prosthetic function, adaptation, and stability over conventional treatment options. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of different denture cleansing solutions and their influence on the deterioration and loss of retention of overdenture attachments in a 12-month clinical-use simulation. In this way, ten specimens each of different brands of retentive caps made of Teflon (OT Equator® (Rhein83, Bologna, Italy), Locator® (Zest Anchors, Escondido, CA, USA), Kerator® (KJ Meditech, Gwangiu, Republic of Korea), and Locator R-Tx® (Zest Anchors, Escondido, CA, USA)) were immersed in five different cleaning solutions (Kukident® (P&G Tech, Oxford Parkway, UK), Benfix® (Laboratorios URGO S.L., Guipúzcoa, Spain), Corega® (Stafford Miller, Waterford, Ireland), and Protefix® (Neuhofer Weiche, Parchim, Germany)), and tap water was used as the control group, in a simulation that lasted 12 months. Data were analyzed using two-way ANOVA and a Tukey HSD. Furthermore, a Levene Test and Shapiro–Wilk tests were performed to assess the validation of the ANOVA assumptions. The statistical analysis was performed using R version 4.2.2 software with the significance level set to p < 0.05. There were significant statistical differences between the different manufacturers regarding the retention forces of the attachment’s retentive caps (F = 322.066, p < 0.001). For the cleaning solution groups, different statistical results between Kukident® (P&G Tech, Oxford Parkway, UK) (p < 0.05) and Benfix® (Laboratorios URGO S.L., Guipúzcoa, Spain) (p < 0.05) were observed. There were no significant statistical differences between Corega® (Stafford Miller, Ireland), Protefix® (Neuhofer Weiche, Parchim, Germany), and tap water, even though the retention forces decreased in all of them.
The Central Fluid Percussion Brain Injury in a Gyrencephalic Pig Brain: Scalable Diffuse Injury and Tissue Viability for Glial Cell Immunolabeling following Long-Term Refrigerated Storage
Authors: Pavlichenko Mark , Lafrenaye Audrey D.
Published: June 2023

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) affects millions of people annually; however, our knowledge of the diffuse pathologies associated with TBI is limited. As diffuse pathologies, including axonal injury and neuroinflammatory changes, are difficult to visualize in the clinical population, animal models are used. In the current study, we used the central fluid percussion injury (CFPI) model in a micro pig to study the potential scalability of these diffuse pathologies in a gyrencephalic brain of a species with inflammatory systems very similar to humans. We found that both axonal injury and microglia activation within the thalamus and corpus callosum are positively correlated with the weight-normalized pressure pulse, while subtle changes in blood gas and mean arterial blood pressure are not. We also found that the majority of tissue generated up to 10 years previously is viable for immunofluorescent labeling after long-term refrigeration storage. This study indicates that a micro pig CFPI model could allow for specific investigations of various degrees of diffuse pathological burdens following TBI.
Proteome Analysis of the Antiproliferative Activity of the Novel Chitooligosaccharide–Gallic Acid Conjugate against the SW620 Colon Cancer Cell Line
Authors: Saetang Jirakrit , Sukkapat Phutthipong , Mittal Ajay , Julamanee Jakrawadee , Khopanlert Wannakorn , Maneechai Kajornkiat , Nazeer Rasool Abdul , Sangkhathat Surasak , Benjakul Soottawat
Published: June 2023

Chitooligosaccharide (COS) and gallic acid (GA) are natural compounds with anti-cancer properties, and their conjugate (COS–GA) has several biological activities. Herein, the anti-cancer activity of COS–GA in SW620 colon cancer cells was investigated. MTT assay was used to evaluate cell viability after treatment with 62.5, 122, and 250 µg/mL of COS, GA, and COS–GA for 24 and 48 h. The number of apoptotic cells was determined using flow cytometry. Proteomic analysis was used to explore the mechanisms of action of different compounds. COS–GA and GA showed a stronger anti-cancer effect than COS by reducing SW620 cell proliferation at 125 and 250 µg/mL within 24 h. Flow cytometry revealed 20% apoptosis after COS–GA treatment for 24 h. Thus, GA majorly contributed to the enhanced anti-cancer activity of COS via conjugation. Proteomic analysis revealed alterations in protein translation and DNA duplication in the COS group and the structural constituents of the cytoskeleton, intermediate filament organization, the mitochondrial nucleoid, and glycolytic processes in the COS–GA group. Anti-cancer-activity-related proteins were altered, including CLTA, HSPA9, HIST2H2BF, KRT18, HINT1, DSP, and VIM. Overall, the COS–GA conjugate can serve as a potential anti-cancer agent for the safe and effective treatment of colon cancer.
Advances in the Early Diagnosis of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma and Premalignant Pancreatic Lesions
Authors: Yamada Reiko , Tsuboi Junya , Murashima Yumi , Tanaka Takamitsu , Nose Kenji , Nakagawa Hayato
Published: June 2023

Pancreatic cancer is one of the most lethal human malignancies, in part because it is often diagnosed at late stages when surgery and systemic therapies are either unfeasible or ineffective. Therefore, diagnosing pancreatic cancer in earlier stages is important for effective treatment. However, because the signs and symptoms may be nonspecific and not apparent until the disease is at a late stage, the timely diagnoses of pancreatic cancer can be difficult to achieve. Recent studies have shown that selective screening and increased usage of biomarkers could improve the early diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. In this review, we discuss recent advancements in the early detection of pancreatic ductal carcinoma and precancerous lesions. These include innovations in imaging modalities, the diagnostic utility of various biomarkers, biopsy techniques, and population-based surveillance approaches. Additionally, we discuss how machine learning methods are being applied to develop integrated methods of identifying individuals at high risk of developing pancreatic disease. In the future, the overall survival of pancreatic cancer patients could be improved by the development and adoption of these new methods and techniques.
Involvement of the Superior Colliculus in SIDS Pathogenesis
Authors: Lavezzi Anna M. , Mehboob Riffat , Piscioli Francesco , Pusiol Teresa
Published: June 2023

The aim of this study was to investigate the involvement of the mesencephalic superior colliculus (SC) in the pathogenetic mechanism of SIDS, a syndrome frequently ascribed to arousal failure from sleep. We analyzed the brains of 44 infants who died suddenly within the first 7 months of life, among which were 26 infants with SIDS and 18 controls. In-depth neuropathological investigations of serial sections of the midbrain showed the SC layered cytoarchitectural organization already well known in animals, as made up of seven distinct layers, but so far never highlighted in humans, albeit with some differences. In 69% of SIDS cases but never in the controls, we observed alterations of the laminar arrangement of the SC deep layers (precisely, an increased number of polygonal cells invading the superficial layers and an increased presence of intensely stained myelinated fibers). Since it has been demonstrated in experimental studies that the deep layers of the SC exert motor control including that of the head, their developmental disorder could lead to the failure of newborns who are in a prone position to resume regular breathing by moving their heads in the sleep-arousal phase. The SC anomalies highlighted here represent a new step in understanding the pathogenetic process that leads to SIDS.
Synthesis and Characterization of Mithun (Bos frontalis) Urine-Based Antibacterial Copper Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Pelesinuo Khriebu Bizo , Sattanathan Govindharajan , Haque Nazrul , Al-Ghanim Khalid A. , Nicoletti Marcello , Sachivkina Nadezhda , Govindarajan Marimuthu
Published: June 2023

The increased prevalence of disease, mortality, and antibiotic resistance among aquatic microorganisms has renewed interest in non-conventional disease prevention and control approaches. Nanoparticles present several benefits in aquaculture and hold significant potential for controlling both human and animal infections. This study reports on the antibacterial properties of green copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) synthesized from the urine of Mithun (MU) (Bos frontalis). In addition, an array of analytical techniques, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV-visible spectroscopy (UV), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), were employed to investigate the synthesized MU-CuO nanoparticles. Aeromonas hydrophila and Aeromonas veronii, two bacterial fish pathogens known to cause severe infectious diseases in fish, were tested for their antibacterial efficacy against MU-CuO NPs. At 100 µg/mL, MU-CuO NPs exhibit enhanced antibacterial efficacy against two bacterial pathogens commonly found in fish. Applications in aquaculture may be looked at given that MU-CuO NPs showed greater antibacterial activity.
Reshaping the Concept of Riedel’s Thyroiditis into the Larger Frame of IgG4-Related Disease (Spectrum of IgG4-Related Thyroid Disease)
Authors: Carsote Mara , Nistor Claudiu
Published: June 2023

Recently, Riedel’s thyroiditis (RT) was assimilated into the larger spectrum of immunoglobulin IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD) in addition to a particular frame of IgG4-related thyroid disease (IgG4-RTD), underlying IgG4-RT, IgG4-associated Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (and its fibrotic variant), and IgG4-related Graves’s disease. Our objective was to overview recent data on RT, particularly IgG4-RD and IgG4-RTD. The case and study– sample analysis (2019–2023) included 293 articles and selected 18 original studies: nine single case reports (N = 9, female/male = 2/1, aged: 34–79 years, 5/9 patients with serum IgG4 available data, 2/5 with high serum IgG4) and four case series (N = 21; 4/5 series provided data on IgG4 profile, 3/21 had serum IgG4 assays, and 2/3 had abnormally high values). IgG4-RD and thyroid findings were analyzed in three cohorts (N = 25). Another two studies (N = 11) specifically addressed IgG4-RTD components. On presentation, the patients may have hypothyroidism, transitory thyrotoxicosis, goiter, long-term history of positive anti-thyroid antibodies, and hypoechoic ultrasound thyroid pattern. The 5-year analysis (N = 66) showed the rate of serum IgG4 evaluation remained low; normal values do not exclude RT. Mandatory histological and immunohistochemistry reports point out a high content of IgG4-carrying plasma cells and IgG4/IgG ratio. Unless clinically evident, histological confirmation provides a prompt indication of starting corticoid therapy since this is the first-line option. Surgery, if feasible, is selective (non-responders to medical therapy, emergency tracheal intervention, and open/core needle biopsy). Current open issues are identifying the role of serum IgG4 assays in patients with IgG4-RD, finding out if all cases of RT are IgG4-mediated, applying IgG4-RTD criteria of differentiation among four entities, and providing an RT/IgG4-RTD guideline from diagnosis to therapy. It remains that the central aim of approaching RT in daily practice is the early index of suspicion in order to select patients referred for further procedures that provide enough histological/immunohistochemistry material to confirm RT and its high IgG4 burden.