bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
VSFCM: A Novel Viewpoint-Driven Subspace Fuzzy C-Means Algorithm
Authors: Tang Yiming , Chen Rui , Xia Bowen
Published: May 2023

Nowadays, most fuzzy clustering algorithms are sensitive to the initialization results of clustering algorithms and have a weak ability to handle high-dimensional data. To solve these problems, we developed the viewpoint-driven subspace fuzzy c-means (VSFCM) algorithm. Firstly, we propose a new cut-off distance. Based on this, we establish the cut-off distance-induced clustering initialization (CDCI) method and use it as a new strategy for cluster center initialization and viewpoint selection. Secondly, by taking the viewpoint obtained by CDCI as the entry point of knowledge, a new fuzzy clustering strategy driven by knowledge and data is formed. Based upon these, we put forward the VSFCM algorithm combined with viewpoints, separation terms, and subspace fuzzy feature weights. Moreover, compared with the symmetric weights obtained by other subspace clustering algorithms, the weights of the VSFCM algorithm exhibit significant asymmetry. That is, they assign greater weights to features that contribute more, which is validated on the artificial dataset DATA2 in the experimental section. The experimental results compared with multiple advanced clustering algorithms on the three types of datasets validate that the proposed VSFCM algorithm has the best performance in five indicators. It is demonstrated that the initialization method CDCI is more effective, the feature weight allocation of VSFCM is more consistent with the asymmetry of experimental data, and it can achieve better convergence speed while displaying better clustering efficiency.
Analyzing Spatial-Temporal Change of Vegetation Ecological Quality and Its Influencing Factors in Anhui Province, Eastern China Using Multiscale Geographically Weighted Regression
Authors: Wang Tao , Zhao Mingsong , Gao Yingfeng , Yu Zhilin , Zhao Zhidong
Published: May 2023

Vegetation is a crucial component of terrestrial ecology and plays a significant role in carbon sequestration. Monitoring changes in vegetation ecological quality has important guidance value for sustainable development. In this study, we investigated the spatial and temporal variation characteristics of Ecological Quality Index of Terrestrial Vegetation (EQI) in Anhui Province during the growing season from 2000 to 2020 using trend analysis, partial correlation analysis and bivariate spatial autocorrelation analysis. Based on the Multiscale Geographically Weighted Regression (MGWR), the spatial heterogeneity of the effects of average temperature, precipitation, elevation, slope, and human activity factors on EQI was explored. Our results showed an increasing trend in EQI during the growing season in Anhui Province from 2000 to 2020. The significantly increasing areas accounted for 43.49%, while the significantly decreasing areas accounted for 3.60%. EQI had a mostly positive correlation with precipitation and a negative correlation with average temperature (p < 0.1), showing a higher sensitivity to precipitation than to temperature. Additionally, EQI tended to increase initially and then decrease with increasing elevation and slope. Furthermore, our analysis revealed a significant negative spatial correlation between human activity intensity and EQI (p < 0.01). The bivariate global autocorrelation Moran index between EQI and human activity in 2000, 2005, 2010, 2015, and 2018 were −0.418, −0.427, −0.414, −0.487, and −0.470, respectively. We also found that the influencing factors explain 63–83% of the spatial variation of EQI, and the order of influence of factors on EQI is elevation > human activity > slope > average temperature > precipitation. MGWR results indicated that human activities and topographic factors had a stronger impact on EQI at the local scale, while climate factors tended to influence EQI at the global scale.
An Integrated Approach for the Environmental Characterization of a Coastal Area in the Southern Atacama Desert
Authors: Bonnail Estefanía , Cruces Edgardo , Rothäusler Eva , Oses Rómulo , García Ayón , Ulloa Christopher , Navarro Nuria , Rojas-Lillo Yesenia , Parra Valdivia Álvaro , Catalán Garrido Ricardo , Abad Manuel
Published: May 2023

Desert areas in northern Chile are highly valuable ecosystems. While human activities are impacting the area in different ways, there are few environmental studies available. The current study analysed the ecological health status (water, sediment, biota) of a northern coastal area in the Atacama Region, including a national park (with a protected marine area), a tourist and benthic management area, and an industrial area. Results from the physical–chemical characterization and physiological state of organisms of ecological importance (macroalgae and microalgae) were integrated to determine pollution and toxic responses. The results identified high and moderate pollution levels for Bi, Ca, As, Ag and Cd in sediments. The As concentration in sediments is the leading environmental problem, with average values above the threshold effect level, associated with fine sediments. The stations showed increasing contamination and stress from north to south (national park > tourist and benthic management area > industrial area), associated with the proximity to the discharge of mining waste from the Salado River. The national park registered the poorest health status as demonstrated by high Cu bioaccumulation and high photosynthetic stress in the macroalgae and the lowest biomass concentration of the microalgae in water. The tourist and benthic management area demonstrated high As concentrations in sediments and Cd bioaccumulation. The industrial area was the least contaminated area, exhibiting lower photosynthetic stress and bioaccumulation.
Study on the Oscillating Phenomenon of Welding Pool with Different Penetration States in Short-Circuiting GMAW
Authors: Qian Haoxuan , Chen Tao , Xue Songbai
Published: May 2023

The oscillating phenomenon of the weld pool has a direct physical correspondence with its penetration state, which has broad application prospects in the monitoring of weld penetration states. This article studied the characteristics of the oscillating phenomenon of the weld pool in short-circuiting gas metal arc welding (S-GMAW) with different penetration states based on a welding high-speed photography system. The results show that the form of the liquid bridge electric explosion impact on the weld pool is “surface impact” in S-GMAW. The oscillation frequency of the weld pool decreases as the size of the weld pool increases. Compared with the partially penetrated weld pool, the boundary conditions of the fully penetrated weld pool had different boundary conditions, resulting in higher oscillation amplitude and lower oscillation frequency. In S-GMAW, no difference in welding voltage signal, caused by the difference in amplitude of the weld pool oscillation with different penetration states, was observed.
Performance of a Closed Cycle Power Takeoff for a Shore-Based Wave Energy Device
Authors: Bellec Morgane , Gibson Lee , Meskell Craig
Published: May 2023

A promising class of devices for ocean wave energy conversion is called the oscillating water column in which the wave power is transferred to an airflow that rotates a turbine. A closed cycle power takeoff (CCPTO), in which air is forced through two valves and a turbine, has two main benefits for such a system: it allows a unidirectional turbine, and it smooths the large variations in pressure due to irregular (i.e., polychromatic) seas. This paper presents the design of a CCPTO for a shore-based installation, with particular attention paid to the turbine. The entire system is simulated with a reduced order model for a range of sea states to estimate the operating conditions of the turbine. It is found that the pressure drop range is modest but strongly dependent on the tide and sea chamber geometry. The geometry of the turbine is initially developed with a 1D preliminary design of the blades and then the turbine performance is analysed and the design is refined using Reynolds Averaged Navier–Stokes simulations. The design process is conducted based on the geometry and the sea climate of a real-life wave energy installation located in Mutriku (Spain). A turbine that displays efficient performance over a wide range of sea states is obtained. The overall performance of this turbine as part of the entire CCPTO system is assessed and leads to an energy output of ∼1500 kWh for one month in sea conditions at Mutriku wave power plant in Spain. It is concluded that the CCPTO deserves further development in any fixed oscillating wave column system.
Numerical Study on Vibration Response of Compressor Stator Blade Considering Contact Friction of Holding Ring
Authors: Ma Jiaobin , Liu Zhufeng , Zhang Di , Xie Yonghui
Published: May 2023

There are many kinds of assembly structures in heavy-duty gas turbine compressor stator blades which have significant influence on the complex damping vibration characteristics. At present, compressor design is becoming more and more compact, so it is very meaningful to accurately obtain stator blade vibration characteristics of structures with contact damping. Firstly, a fretting slip friction dynamic model was introduced, and then a vibration analysis model of the compressor stator blade with outer ring structure was established based on the slip friction theory. Then, the vibration response of the compressor stator blade was obtained according to various working conditions, and the main factors affecting the vibration characteristics of the stator blade were revealed. Finally, the vibration response of the blade under a particular exciting force condition was simulated. The results show that the damping vibration characteristics of the compressor stator blades were affected by the excitation force and the normal load of the contact surface. The vibration response curve of the stator blade and the equivalent stiffness coefficient of the contact surface were analyzed, and the friction motion of the contact surface changed with the change of the working condition. The model can simulate the nonlinear vibration characteristics of stator blades. This method provides a reference for the vibration safety analysis of compressor stator blades.
Student-Led Research in Atmospheric Science
Authors: Preston Ari D. , Reed David E.
Published: May 2023

Engaging students in research is critical to their development as atmospheric scientists [...]
Atomic Lifetimes of Astrophysical Interest in Ions of Fe
Authors: Träbert Elmar
Published: May 2023

Multiply charged ions of iron dominate the EUV spectrum of the solar corona. For the interpretation of such spectra, data on both the atomic structure and the transition rate are essential, most of which are provided by theory and computation. The wavelengths of observed spectra are used to test the predicted energy level structure, while the line intensities depend on level lifetimes and branch fractions. A number of electric dipole and higher-order transition rates have been measured over the years in the laboratory, mostly by beam-foil spectroscopy, at heavy-ion storage rings, and at various ion traps. In this paper, the state of the knowledge base on level lifetimes in all ions of Fe is assessed, and the problems of further progress are outlined.
Third-Party Disability for Significant Others of Individuals with Tinnitus: A Cross-Sectional Survey Design
Authors: Beukes Eldré W. , Andersson Gerhard , Manchaiah Vinaya
Published: May 2023

There is currently increasing awareness of third-party disability, defined as the disability and functioning of a significant other (SO) due to a health condition of one of their family members. The effects of third-party disability on the SOs of individuals with tinnitus has received little attention. To address this knowledge gap, this study investigated third-party disability in the significant others (SOs) of individuals with tinnitus. A cross-sectional survey design included 194 pairs of individuals from the USA with tinnitus and their significant others. The SO sample completed the Consequences of Tinnitus on Significant Others Questionnaire (CTSOQ). Individuals with tinnitus completed standardized self-reported outcome measures for tinnitus severity, anxiety, depression, insomnia, hearing-related quality of life, tinnitus cognitions, hearing disability, and hyperacusis. The CTSOQ showed that 34 (18%) of the SOs were mildly impacted, 59 (30%) were significantly impacted, and 101 (52%) were severely impact. The clinical variables of tinnitus severity, anxiety, and hyperacusis in individuals with tinnitus were the best predictors of the impact of tinnitus on SOs. These results show that the SOs of individuals with tinnitus may experience third-party disability. The effect of the individual’s tinnitus on their SO may be greater when the individual with tinnitus has a higher level of tinnitus severity, anxiety, and hyperacusis.
Recent Progress in Electrolyte Additives for Highly Reversible Zinc Anodes in Aqueous Zinc Batteries
Authors: Shen Qibin , Wang Yuanduo , Han Guanjie , Li Xin , Yuan Tao , Sun Hao , Gong Yinyan , Chen Taiqiang
Published: May 2023

Aqueous zinc batteries (AZBs) are one of the most promising large-scale energy storage devices by virtue of their high specific capacity, high degree of safety, non-toxicity, and significant economic benefits. However, Zn anodes in aqueous electrolyte suffer from zinc dendrites and side reactions, which lead to a low coulombic efficiency and short life cycle of the cell. Since electrolytes play a key role in the Zn plating/stripping process, versatile strategies have been developed for designing an electrolyte to handle these issues. Among these strategies, electrolyte additives are considered to be promising for practical application because of the advantages of low cost and simplicity. Moreover, the resulting electrolyte can maximally preserve the merits of the aqueous electrolyte. The availability and effectiveness of additives have been demonstrated by tens of research works. Up to now, it has been essential and timely to systematically overview the progress of electrolyte additives in mild acidic/neutral electrolytes. These additives are classified as metal ion additives, surfactant additives, SEI film-forming additives, and complexing additives, according to their functions and mechanisms. For each category of additives, their functional mechanisms, as well as the latest developments, are comprehensively elaborated. Finally, some perspectives into the future development of additives for advanced AZBs are presented.
Analysis of Static Plantar Pressures in School-Age Children with and without Functional Hallux Limitus: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Cuevas-Martínez Claudia , Becerro-de-Bengoa-Vallejo Ricardo , Losa-Iglesias Marta Elena , Casado-Hernández Israel , Turné-Cárceles Oriol , Pérez-Palma Laura , Martiniano João , Gómez-Salgado Juan , López-López Daniel
Published: May 2023

Background: The presence of hallux limitus in adulthood is frequently encountered in clinical practice, generating other biomechanical, structural, and functional compensations in dynamics secondary to blockage of the main pivot in the sagittal plane, the first metatarsophalangeal joint. In addition, the presence of functional hallux limitus (FHL) in school-age children is also increasing. Currently, there is a lack of scientific literature about this condition in the pediatric population, and early diagnosis is necessary to reduce future biomechanical disorders and avoid the development of foot arthritis. The purpose of this research was to identify static plantar pressures in school-age children with and without hallux limitus. Methods: A total sample of 106 children aged between six and twelve years old was divided into two groups: the case group (53 subjects with functional hallux limitus) and the control group (53 subjects without functional hallux limitus). Data were acquired with the participants in a standing barefoot position on the pressure platform, and the hallux limitus functional test was performed in a sitting position to classify the individuals into the determined study group. The variables analyzed in the research were: plantar pressure, bilateral forefoot and rearfoot surface area, bilateral forefoot and rearfoot ground reaction forces, bilateral forefoot and rearfoot distribution of body weight, total left and right surface area, maximum pressure of the left foot and right foot, medium pressure of the left foot and right foot, ground reaction forces of the left foot and right foot, and the weight of each foot. Results: Age was the only descriptive quantitative variable that showed a significant difference between the two study groups, with a p-value of 0.031. No statistically significant differences were found between groups in the bilateral forefoot and rearfoot surface area, ground reaction forces, distribution of body weight, or maximum and medium plantar pressure in the left and right foot. Conclusions: Changes in the location of the maximum pressure were observed, particularly in older participants with FHL, but these results were not significant. The findings of this study did not show significant differences between the static plantar pressures of school-age individuals with and without functional hallux limitus.
A New Breakpoint to Classify 3D Voxels in MRI: A Space Transform Strategy with 3t2FTS-v2 and Its Application for ResNet50-Based Categorization of Brain Tumors
Authors: Koyuncu Hasan , Barstuğan Mücahid
Published: May 2023

Three-dimensional (3D) image analyses are frequently applied to perform classification tasks. Herein, 3D-based machine learning systems are generally used/generated by examining two designs: a 3D-based deep learning model or a 3D-based task-specific framework. However, except for a new approach named 3t2FTS, a promising feature transform operating from 3D to two-dimensional (2D) space has not been efficiently investigated for classification applications in 3D magnetic resonance imaging (3D MRI). In other words, a state-of-the-art feature transform strategy is not available that achieves high accuracy and provides the adaptation of 2D-based deep learning models for 3D MRI-based classification. With this aim, this paper presents a new version of the 3t2FTS approach (3t2FTS-v2) to apply a transfer learning model for tumor categorization of 3D MRI data. For performance evaluation, the BraTS 2017/2018 dataset is handled that involves high-grade glioma (HGG) and low-grade glioma (LGG) samples in four different sequences/phases. 3t2FTS-v2 is proposed to effectively transform the features from 3D to 2D space by using two textural features: first-order statistics (FOS) and gray level run length matrix (GLRLM). In 3t2FTS-v2, normalization analyses are assessed to be different from 3t2FTS to accurately transform the space information apart from the usage of GLRLM features. The ResNet50 architecture is preferred to fulfill the HGG/LGG classification due to its remarkable performance in tumor grading. As a result, for the classification of 3D data, the proposed model achieves a 99.64% accuracy by guiding the literature about the importance of 3t2FTS-v2 that can be utilized not only for tumor grading but also for whole brain tissue-based disease classification.
Molecular Characterization and Expression Pattern of leptin in Yellow Cheek Carp (Elopichthys bambusa) and Its Transcriptional Changes in Response to Fasting and Refeeding
Authors: Xie Min , Gao Jinwei , Wu Hao , Cheng Xiaofei , Zhang Zhou , Song Rui , Li Shaoming , Zhou Jie , Li Cheng , Zeng Guoqing
Published: May 2023

Leptin, a secretory protein encoded by obese genes, plays an important role in regulating feeding and energy metabolism in fish. To study the structure and function of the Leptin gene in yellow cheek carp (Elopichthys bambusa), the full-length cDNA sequence of leptin was cloned, named EbLep. The full-length cDNA of Eblep was 1140 bp, and the length of the open reading frame (ORF), which can encode a protein of 174 amino acids, was 525 bp. The signal peptide was predicted to contain 33 amino acids. Sequence alignment showed that the amino acid sequence of Leptin was conserved in cyprinid fish. Despite large differences between primary structures, the tertiary structure of the EbLep protein was similar to that of the human protein and had four α-helices. The EbLep mRNA transcript was detected in all tested tissues, with the highest expression in the liver and lowest expression in the spleen. In this study, short-term fasting significantly increased the mRNA expression of EbLep in the liver, which returned to a normal level after 6 days of refeeding and was significantly lower than the normal level after 28 days of refeeding. In the brain, the mRNA expression of EbLep significantly decreased during short-term fasting and significantly increased to a higher value than the control group after 1 h of refeeding. It then rapidly decreased to a lower value than the control group after 6 h of refeeding, returning to the normal level after 1 day of refeeding, and significantly decreasing to a lower value than the control group after 28 days of refeeding. To sum up, the change in the mRNA expression of EbLep in the brain and liver may be an adaptive strategy for different energy levels.
Identification and Characterization of Infectious Pathogens Associated with Mass Mortalities of Pacific Oyster (Crassostrea gigas) Cultured in Northern China
Authors: Zhang Xiang , Huang Bo-Wen , Zheng Yu-Dong , Xin Lu-Sheng , Chen Wen-Bo , Yu Tao , Li Chen , Wang Chong-Ming , Bai Chang-Ming
Published: May 2023

The Pacific oyster (Crassostrea gigas) aquaculture industry increased rapidly in China with the introduction and promotion of triploid oysters in recent years. Mass mortalities affecting different life stages of Pacific oysters emerged periodically in several important production areas of Northern China. During 2020 and 2021, we conducted a passive two-year investigation of infectious pathogens linked to mass mortality. Ostreid herpesvirus-1 (OsHV-1) was detected to be associated with mass mortalities of hatchery larvae, but not juveniles and adults in the open sea. Protozoan parasites, such as Marteilia spp., Perkinsus spp. and Bonamia spp. were not detected. Bacterial isolation and identification revealed that Vibrio natriegens and Vibrio alginolyticus were the most frequently (9 out of 13) identified two dominant bacteria associated with mass mortalities. Pseudoalteromonas spp. was identified as the dominant bacteria in three mortality events that occurred during the cold season. Further bacteriological analysis was conducted on two representative isolates of V. natriegens and V. alginolyticus, designated as CgA1-1 and CgA1-2. Multisequence analysis (MLSA) showed that CgA1-1 and CgA1-2 were closely related to each other and nested within the Harveyi clade. Bacteriological investigation revealed faster growth, and more remarkable haemolytic activity and siderophore production capacity at 25 °C than at 15 °C for both CgA1-1 and CgA1-2. The accumulative mortalities of experimental immersion infections were also higher at 25 °C (90% and 63.33%) than at 15 °C (43.33% and 33.33%) using both CgA1-1 and CgA1-2, respectively. Similar clinical and pathological features were identified in samples collected during both naturally and experimentally occurring mortalities, such as thin visceral mass, discolouration, and connective tissue and digestive tube lesions. The results presented here highlight the potential risk of OsHV-1 to hatchery production of larvae, and the pathogenic role of V. natriegens and V. alginolyticus during mass mortalities of all life stages of Pacific oysters in Northern China.
Brain-Derived Estrogen Regulates Neurogenesis, Learning and Memory with Aging in Female Rats
Authors: Huang Yuanyuan , Sun Wuxiang , Gao Fujia , Ma Haoran , Yuan Tao , Liu Zixuan , Liu Huiyu , Hu Jiewei , Bai Jing , Zhang Xin , Wang Ruimin
Published: May 2023

Although 17β-estradiol (E2) can be locally synthesized in the brain, whether and how brain-derived E2 (BDE2) impacts neurogenesis with aging is largely unclear. In this study, we examined the hippocampal neural stem cells, neurogenesis, and gliogenesis of 1, 3, 6, 14, and 18-month (Mon) female rats. Female forebrain neuronal aromatase knockout (FBN-ARO-KO) rats and letrozole-treated rats were also employed. We demonstraed that (1) the number of neural stem cells declined over 14-Mon age, and the differentiation of astrocytes and microglia markedly elevated and exhibited excessive activation. KO rats showed declines in astrocyte A2 subtype and elevation in A1 subtype at 18 Mon; (2) neurogenesis sharply dropped from 1-Mon age; (3) KO suppressed dentate gyrus (DG) neurogenesis at 1, 6 and 18 Mon. Additionally, KO and letrozole treatment led to declined neurogenesis at 1-Mon age, compared to age-matched WT controls; (4) FBN-ARO-KO inhibited CREB-BDNF activation, and decreased protein levels of neurofilament, spinophilin and PSD95. Notably, hippocampal-dependent spatial learning and memory was impaired in juvenile (1 Mon) and adulthood (6 Mon) KO rats. Taken together, we demonstrated that BDE2 plays a pivotal role for hippocampal neurogenesis, as well as learning and memory during female aging, especially in juvenile and middle age.
Space Environment Impacts Homeostasis: Exposure to Spaceflight Alters Mammary Gland Transportome Genes
Authors: Patel Osman V. , Partridge Charlyn , Plaut Karen
Published: May 2023

Membrane transporters and ion channels that play an indispensable role in metabolite trafficking have evolved to operate in Earth’s gravity. Dysregulation of the transportome expression profile at normogravity not only affects homeostasis along with drug uptake and distribution but also plays a key role in the pathogenesis of diverse localized to systemic diseases including cancer. The profound physiological and biochemical perturbations experienced by astronauts during space expeditions are well-documented. However, there is a paucity of information on the effect of the space environment on the transportome profile at an organ level. Thus, the goal of this study was to analyze the effect of spaceflight on ion channels and membrane substrate transporter genes in the periparturient rat mammary gland. Comparative gene expression analysis revealed an upregulation (p < 0.01) of amino acid, Ca2+, K+, Na+, Zn2+, Cl−, PO43−, glucose, citrate, pyruvate, succinate, cholesterol, and water transporter genes in rats exposed to spaceflight. Genes associated with the trafficking of proton-coupled amino acids, Mg2+, Fe2+, voltage-gated K+-Na+, cation-coupled chloride, as well as Na+/Ca2+ and ATP-Mg/Pi exchangers were suppressed (p < 0.01) in these spaceflight-exposed rats. These findings suggest that an altered transportome profile contributes to the metabolic modulations observed in the rats exposed to the space environment.
Circulating Hsp70 Levels and the Immunophenotype of Peripheral Blood Lymphocytes as Potential Biomarkers for Advanced Lung Cancer and Therapy Failure after Surgery
Authors: Safi Seyer , Messner Luis , Kliebisch Merten , Eggert Linn , Ceylangil Ceyra , Lennartz Philipp , Jefferies Benedict , Klein Henriette , Schirren Moritz , Dommasch Michael , Lobinger Dominik , Multhoff Gabriele
Published: May 2023

Lung cancer remains a devastating disease with a poor clinical outcome. A biomarker signature which could distinguish lung cancer from metastatic disease and detect therapeutic failure would significantly improve patient management and allow for individualized, risk-adjusted therapeutic decisions. In this study, circulating Hsp70 levels were measured using ELISA, and the immunophenotype of the peripheral blood lymphocytes were measured using multiparameter flow cytometry, to identify a predictive biomarker signature for lung cancer patients pre- and post-operatively, in patients with lung metastases and in patients with COPD as an inflammatory lung disease. The lowest Hsp70 concentrations were found in the healthy controls followed by the patients with advanced COPD. Hsp70 levels sequentially increased with an advancing tumor stage and metastatic disease. In the early-recurrence patients, Hsp70 levels started to increase within the first three months after surgery, but remained unaltered in the recurrence-free patients. An early recurrence was associated with a significant drop in B cells and an increase in Tregs, whereas the recurrence-free patients had elevated T and NK cell levels. We conclude that circulating Hsp70 concentrations might have the potential to distinguish lung cancer from metastatic disease, and might be able to predict an advanced tumor stage and early recurrence in lung cancer patients. Further studies with larger patient cohorts and longer follow-up periods are needed to validate Hsp70 and immunophenotypic profiles as predictive biomarker signatures.
Organoids: Construction and Application in Gastric Cancer
Authors: Huo Chengdong , Zhang Xiaoxia , Gu Yanmei , Wang Daijun , Zhang Shining , Liu Tao , Li Yumin , He Wenting
Published: May 2023

Gastric organoids are biological models constructed in vitro using stem cell culture and 3D cell culture techniques, which are the latest research hotspots. The proliferation of stem cells in vitro is the key to gastric organoid models, making the cell subsets within the models more similar to in vivo tissues. Meanwhile, the 3D culture technology also provides a more suitable microenvironment for the cells. Therefore, the gastric organoid models can largely restore the growth condition of cells in terms of morphology and function in vivo. As the most classic organoid models, patient-derived organoids use the patient’s own tissues for in vitro culture. This kind of model is responsive to the ‘disease information’ of a specific patient and has great effect on evaluating the strategies of individualized treatment. Herein, we review the current literature on the establishment of organoid cultures, and also explore organoid translational applications.
Not-So-Sweet Dreams: Plasma and IgG N-Glycome in the Severe Form of the Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Plećaš Doris , Mraz Nikol , Patanaude Anne Marie , Pribić Tea , Pavlinac Dodig Ivana , Pecotić Renata , Lauc Gordan , Polašek Ozren , Đogaš Zoran
Published: May 2023

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a prevalent disease associated with increased risk for cardiovascular and metabolic diseases and shortened lifespan. The aim of this study was to explore the possibility of using N-glycome as a biomarker for the severe form of OSA. Seventy subjects who underwent a whole-night polysomnography/polygraphy and had apnea–hypopnea index (AHI) over 30 were compared to 23 controls (AHI under 5). Plasma samples were used to extract 39 glycan peaks using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) and 27 IgG peaks using capillary gel electrophoresis (CGE). We also measured glycan age, a molecular proxy for biological aging. Three plasma and one IgG peaks were significant in a multivariate model controlling for the effects of age, sex, and body mass index. These included decreased GP24 (disialylated triantennary glycans as major structure) and GP28 (trigalactosylated, triantennary, disialylated, and trisialylated glycans), and increased GP32 (trisialylated triantennary glycan). Only one IgG glycan peak was significantly increased (P26), which contains biantennary digalactosylated glycans with core fucose. Patients with severe OSA exhibited accelerated biological aging, with a median of 6.9 years more than their chronological age (p < 0.001). Plasma N-glycome can be used as a biomarker for severe OSA.
A Holistic Perspective on How Photobiomodulation May Influence Fatigue, Pain, and Depression in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Beyond Molecular Mechanisms
Authors: Laakso E-Liisa , Ewais Tatjana
Published: May 2023

Background: Numerous mechanisms, mostly molecular, have been tested and proposed for photobiomodulation. Photobiomodulation is finding a niche in the treatment of conditions that have no gold-standard treatment or only partially effective pharmacological treatment. Many chronic conditions are characterised by symptoms for which there is no cure or control and for which pharmaceuticals may add to the disease burden through side effects. To add quality to life, alternate methods of symptom management need to be identified. Objective: To demonstrate how photobiomodulation, through its numerous mechanisms, may offer an adjunctive therapy in inflammatory bowel disease. Rather than considering only molecular mechanisms, we take an overarching biopsychosocial approach to propose how existing evidence gleaned from other studies may underpin a treatment strategy of potential benefit to people with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Main findings: In this paper, the authors have proposed the perspective that photobiomodulation, through an integrated effect on the neuroimmune and microbiome–gut–brain axis, has the potential to be effective in managing the fatigue, pain, and depressive symptoms of people with inflammatory bowel disease.
Valproate-Induced Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Shnayder Natalia A. , Grechkina Violetta V. , Trefilova Vera V. , Efremov Ilya S. , Dontceva Evgenia A. , Narodova Ekaterina A. , Petrova Marina M. , Soloveva Irina A. , Tepnadze Liia E. , Reznichenko Polina A. , Al-Zamil Mustafa , Altynbekova Gulnara I. , Strelnik Anna I. , Nasyrova Regina F.
Published: May 2023

Valproic acid (VPA) and its salts (sodium calcium magnesium and orotic) are psychotropic drugs that are widely used in neurology and psychiatry. The long-term use of VPA increases the risk of developing adverse drug reactions (ADRs), among which metabolic syndrome (MetS) plays a special role. MetS belongs to a cluster of metabolic conditions such as abdominal obesity, high blood pressure, high blood glucose, high serum triglycerides, and low serum high-density lipoprotein. Valproate-induced MetS (VPA-MetS) is a common ADR that needs an updated multidisciplinary approach to its prevention and diagnosis. In this review, we consider the results of studies of blood (serum and plasma) and the urinary biomarkers of VPA-MetS. These metabolic biomarkers may provide the key to the development of a new multidisciplinary personalized strategy for the prevention and diagnosis of VPA-MetS in patients with neurological diseases, psychiatric disorders, and addiction diseases.
Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Cardiac Diseases and Therapeutic Strategies
Authors: Huang Yafei , Zhou Bingying
Published: May 2023

Mitochondria are the main site of intracellular synthesis of ATP, which provides energy for various physiological activities of the cell. Cardiomyocytes have a high density of mitochondria and mitochondrial damage is present in a variety of cardiovascular diseases. In this paper, we describe mitochondrial damage in mitochondrial cardiomyopathy, congenital heart disease, coronary heart disease, myocardial ischemia–reperfusion injury, heart failure, and drug-induced cardiotoxicity, in the context of the key roles of mitochondria in cardiac development and homeostasis. Finally, we discuss the main current therapeutic strategies aimed at alleviating mitochondrial impairment-related cardiac dysfunction, including pharmacological strategies, gene therapy, mitochondrial replacement therapy, and mitochondrial transplantation. It is hoped that this will provide new ideas for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases.
Association between Food/UGT2B7 Polymorphisms and Pharmacokinetics/Pharmacodynamics Properties of Indapamide in Healthy Humans
Authors: Abbas Banaz , Sabri Nagwa A. , El-Khouly Amal A.
Published: May 2023

Indapamide is an effective and safe antihypertensive medication showing a beneficial effect in combination with other antihypertensive agents regarding morbidity and mortality. A comparative study was performed under fasting and fed conditions to investigate the effect of food and selected single nucleotide polymorphisms in the uridine diphosphate glucuronyl transferase (UGT2B7) gene on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics behavior of indapamide 1.5 mg sustained release. Forty-nine healthy volunteers aged 18–55 years were randomized into two groups; 25 volunteers were administered indapamide under fasting conditions and 24 under fed conditions. Genotyping of the UGT2B7 rs7438135 and rs11740316 was done before commencing the study using predesigned TaqMan assays. Results showed that food independently decreased the value of indapamide’ Tmax by 5.5 h and increased the value of Cmax by 8.7 ng/mL. On the other hand, all genetic variants of both UGT2B7 SNPs had no significant impact on the values of Tmax, Cmax, and AUC0–t; however, it was found that rs11740316 variant AG was correlated with a 2.8 h lower MRTinf. Finally, BMI positively correlated with longer MRTinf. It was concluded that none of rs7438135, rs11740316, or food had a significant impact on the pharmacodynamic properties. Food had a modest impact on indapamide Cmax and Tmax values, while there were unremarkable differences in safety and efficacy.
Lung Transplantation for Pleuroparenchymal Fibroelastosis: A Single-Center Experience with Revision of Literature
Authors: Faccioli Eleonora , Verzeletti Vincenzo , Giraudo Chiara , Schiavon Marco , Calabrese Fiorella , Loy Monica , Rea Federico , Dell’Amore Andrea
Published: May 2023

Pleuroparenchymal fibroelastosis (PPFE) is a rare condition characterized by fibrosis involving the pleura and the upper lobes which can be idiopathic or secondary to chemotherapy, transplantations and occupational exposure. For the end-stage form, lung transplantation (LT) is the treatment of choice. The aim of this study was to report our single-center experience for patients subjected to LT for PPFE and comparing it with the already published evidence on this topic. At our center, we have performed 6 bilateral LTs for patients with PPFE (3 males and 3 females) with a median age of 52 years. Median ICU and in-hospital length of stay were 8 and 30 days, respectively. To date, two patients are alive and four are dead, with a median overall survival of 10 months. In addition, after a formal search using the terms “pleuroparenchymal fibroelastosis AND lung transplantation”, we collected 14 studies focused on outcomes after LT. LT for PPFE is technically challenging and its post-operative course could also be complicated. Current available data on LT outcomes are extremely poor and mostly limited to case reports. Further studies need to be published to improve knowledge of this disease and to achieve best outcomes for LT.
Synthesis, Cytotoxicity and Molecular Docking of New Hybrid Compounds by Combination of Curcumin with Oleanolic Acid
Authors: Sowa-Kasprzak Katarzyna , Totoń Ewa , Kujawski Jacek , Olender Dorota , Lisiak Natalia , Zaprutko Lucjusz , Rubiś Błażej , Kaczmarek Mariusz , Pawełczyk Anna
Published: May 2023

Curcumin and oleanolic acid are natural compounds with high potential in medicinal chemistry. These products have been widely studied for their pharmacological properties and have been structurally modified to improve their bioavailability and therapeutic value. In the present study, we discuss how these compounds are utilized to develop bioactive hybrid compounds that are intended to target cancer cells. Using a bifunctional linker, succinic acid, to combine curcumin and triterpenoic oleanolic acid, several hybrid compounds were prepared. Their cytotoxicity against different cancer cell lines was evaluated and compared with the activity of curcumin (the IC50 value (24 h), for MCF7, HeLaWT and HT-29 cancer cells for KS5, KS6 and KS8 compounds was in the range of 20.6–94.4 µM, in comparison to curcumin 15.6–57.2 µM). Additionally, in silico studies were also performed. The computations determined the activity of the tested compounds towards proteins selected due to their similar binding modes and the nature of hydrogen bonds formed within the cavity of ligand−protein complexes. Overall, the curcumin-triterpene hybrids represent an important class of compounds for the development of effective anticancer agents also without the diketone moiety in the curcumin molecule. Moreover, some structural modifications in keto-enol moiety have led to obtaining more information about different chemical and biological activities. Results obtained may be of interest for further research into combinations of curcumin and oleanolic acid derivatives.
Systemic Inflammation, Endothelial Function, and Risk of Periodontitis in Overweight/Obese Adults
Authors: Andriankaja Oelisoa M. , Pérez Cynthia M. , Modi Ashwin , Suaréz Erick L. , Gower Barbara A. , Rodríguez Elaine , Joshipura Kaumudi
Published: May 2023

The network interaction between systemic inflammatory mediators, endothelial cell adhesion function, and adiponectin as mediators of the association between metabolic diseases and periodontitis has not been evaluated. The objective of this study is to assess whether the interaction of baseline serum levels of TNF-α, hs-CRP, ICAM-1, VCAM-1, and adiponectin leads to periodontitis. Five hundred and ninety-seven overweight/obese (overweight: BMI 25 to <30 kg/m2; obese: >30 kg/m2) adults, aged 40–65 years, with complete 3-year follow-up data were included. Generalized structural equation models with negative binomial regression were used to estimate the regression coefficient (β) for the outcome number of teeth with probing pocket depth (PPD) ≥ 4 mm and bleeding on probing (BOP) at 3-year follow-up for a 1 standard deviation unit increase (Δ = +1SD) in each biomarker. After adjusting for multiple covariates, baseline ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 had significant direct effects on increased log-transformed number of teeth with PPD ≥ 4 mm and BOP (β: 0.16; 95% CI: 0.02–0.30; β: 0.15; 95% CI: 0.02–0.30, respectively). Baseline hs-CRP showed a significant indirect effect via ICAM-1 on the log-transformed number of teeth with PPD ≥ 4 mm and BOP (β: 4.84; 95% CI: 0.27–9.42). Thus, elevated serum ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 have a significant direct effect and increased hs-CRP has a significant indirect effect on the predicted level of periodontitis at the 3-year follow-up among overweight/obese Hispanic adults.
The Role of Nrf2/sMAF Signalling in Retina Ageing and Retinal Diseases
Authors: Zhang Jialing , Zhang Ting , Zeng Shaoxue , Zhang Xinyuan , Zhou Fanfan , Gillies Mark C. , Zhu Ling
Published: May 2023

Age-related diseases, such as Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, cardiovascular diseases, cancers, and age-related macular disease, have become increasingly prominent as the population ages. Oxygen is essential for living organisms, but it may also cause disease when it is transformed into reactive oxygen species via biological processes in cells. Most of the production of ROS occurs in mitochondrial complexes I and III. The accumulation of ROS in cells causes oxidative stress, which plays a crucial role in human ageing and many diseases. Nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is a key antioxidant transcription factor that plays a central role in many diseases and ageing in general. It regulates many downstream antioxidative enzymes when cells are exposed to oxidative stress. A basic-region leucine zipper (bZIP) transcription factor, MAF, specifically the small MAF subfamily (sMAFs), forms heterodimers with Nrf2, which bind with Maf-recognition elements (MAREs) in response to oxidative stress. The role of this complex in the human retina remains unclear. This review summarises the current knowledge about Nrf2 and its downstream signalling, especially its cofactor—MAF, in ageing and diseases, with a focus on the retina. Since Nrf2 is the master regulator of redox homeostasis in cells, we hypothesise that targeting Nrf2 is a promising therapeutic approach for many age-related diseases.
Aspect Ratio Effects on the Aerodynamic Performance of a Biomimetic Hummingbird Wing in Flapping
Authors: Min Yilong , Zhao Gengyao , Pan Dingyi , Shao Xueming
Published: May 2023

Hummingbirds are flapping winged creatures with unique flight mechanisms. Their flight pattern is more similar to insects than other birds. Because their flight pattern provides a large lift force at a very small scale, hummingbirds can remain hovering while flapping. This feature is of high research value. In order to understand the high-lift mechanism of hummingbirds’ wings, in this study a kinematic model is established based on hummingbirds’ hovering and flapping process, and wing models imitating the wing of a hummingbird are designed with different aspect ratios. Therefore, with the help of computational fluid dynamics methods, the effect of aspect ratio changes on the aerodynamic characteristics of hummingbirds’ hovering and flapping are explored in this study. Through two different quantitative analysis methods, the results of lift coefficient and drag coefficient show completely opposite trends. Therefore, lift–drag ratio is introduced to better evaluate aerodynamic characteristics under different aspect ratios, and it is found that the lift–drag ratio reaches a higher value when AR = 4. A similar conclusion is also reached following research on the power factor, which shows that the biomimetic hummingbird wing with AR = 4 has better aerodynamic characteristics. Furthermore, the study of the pressure nephogram and vortices diagram in the flapping process are examined, leading to elucidation of the effect of aspect ratio on the flow field around hummingbirds’ wings and how these effects ultimately lead to changes in the aerodynamic characteristics of the birds’ wings.
A Case of Craniocervical Junction Arteriovenous Fistulas with a Brainstem Mass Lesion on Imaging: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Peng Zheng , Wang Yunfeng , Pang Cong , Li Xiaojian , Zhuang Zong , Li Wei , Hang Chunhua
Published: May 2023

Intracranial mass lesions occur within the cranial cavity, and their etiology is diverse. Although tumors and hemorrhagic diseases are the common causes, some rarer etiologies, such as vascular malformations, might also present with intracranial mass lesion manifestations. Such lesions are easily misdiagnosed due to the lack of manifestations of the primary disease. The treatment involves a detailed examination and differential diagnosis of the etiology and clinical manifestations. On 26 October 2022, a patient with craniocervical junction arteriovenous fistulas (CCJAVFs) was admitted to Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital. Imaging examinations showed a brainstem mass lesion, and the patient was initially diagnosed with a brainstem tumor. After a thorough preoperative discussion and a digital subtraction angiography (DSA) examination, the patient was diagnosed with CCJAVF. The patient was cured using interventional treatment, and an invasive craniotomy was not required. During diagnosis and treatment, the cause of the disease might not be apparent. Thus, a comprehensive preoperative examination is very important, and physicians need to conduct the diagnosis and differential diagnosis of the etiology based on the examination to administer precise treatment and reduce unnecessary operations.