bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Near-Infrared (NIR) Spectroscopy as an Alternative for Predicting n-Alkane Concentration in Excreta of Laying Hens: NIR-Generated Data for Dietary Composition Estimation
Authors: Dardabou Laid , Martínez Ávila José Carlos , Schmidt Markus Werner , Dublecz Károly , Schwarz Christiane , Ibáñez Miguel Angel , Gierus Martin
Published: March 2024

N-alkanes offer a promising approach for assessing the nutritional contribution of external sources to the diets of laying hens in free-range production systems. However, traditional laboratory methods, involving extraction, purification and gas chromatographic analysis, are both economically burdensome and time-consuming. Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) is emerging as a viable alternative, with varying degrees of accuracy depending on the chemical nature and concentration of the component of interest. In our research, we focus on the accuracy of NIRS in predicting the concentrations of n-alkanes (C25–C33) in excreta under simulated free-range conditions with two different diets: one containing a commercial feed with minimal n-alkane content and another containing 1% alfalfa on top of the commercial feed. Spectra processing and calibration were tailored for each n-alkane, with NIRS performance influenced by diet type. Notably, plant predictions using NIR-generated data were consistent with laboratory results, despite a slight tendency toward overestimation (3.40% using the NIRS-generated C25-C29-C33 combination versus 2.80% using laboratory analysis). This indicates the potential of NIRS as an efficient tool to assess n-alkanes in excreta of laying hens and, consequently, the nutritional contribution of the free-range environment, providing rapid and cost-effective results.
Geotechnical and Structural Damages Caused by the 2023 Kahramanmaraş Earthquakes in Gölbaşı (Adıyaman)
Authors: Akar Fahriye , Işık Ercan , Avcil Fatih , Büyüksaraç Aydın , Arkan Enes , İzol Rabia
Published: March 2024

On 6 February 2023, two independent earthquake pairs on the East Anatolian Fault Zone, with epicenters in Pazarcık (Mw = 7.7) and Elbistan (Mw = 7.6) districts of Kahramanmaraş province, caused great destruction. Adıyaman and Gölbaşı districts of this city are among the settlements most affected by the earthquake. Especially in the district where geotechnical damages are most observed, the destructive effects of earthquakes have been clearly observed in buildings with different structural systems. In this study, information is given about the earthquakes that hit the region and the fault zone where the earthquakes occur. Geotechnical and structural damages occurring in the villages and center of the district were evaluated within the scope of earthquakes and structural engineering. It can be stated that damages observed in the district center are generally caused by soil–structure interaction problems. The fact that masonry structures, which are widely used in rural areas, do not benefit from any engineering services has an impact on the level of damage. The main reason for the damages occurring in the reinforced concrete structures in the district is the reinforced concrete system that is not designed properly or not built in accordance with the design. This case study demonstrated the importance of earthquake–soil–structure interactions in line with earthquake-resistant building design principles.
Anthracene Absorption and Concentration Dynamics in Radishes
Authors: Shimazu Haruki
Published: March 2024

This study examined the absorption and concentration of anthracene (AN) in the garden radish. Experiments were conducted to grow radishes from the sowing stage in soil contaminated with AN and to grow radishes in soil contaminated with AN following maturity (27 days after sowing). Regarding growth in the AN-containing soil from sowing onward, the AN concentrations during the growing period in both the soil and radishes decreased exponentially over time, albeit with a time lag. Regarding growth in the AN-containing soil after maturity, the AN concentrations in the roots and leaves had a higher density than those in the stems. In these experiments, positive relationships between the AN levels in the soil and radishes were observed. It was inferred that the greater the degree of soil contamination, the greater the effect was on the amount of AN assimilated by radishes. The concentration ratio (radish-to-soil; Cr/Cs) decreased exponentially with the number of days following AN application. It was interpreted that AN was significantly absorbed in the early stages of radish growth and some of the AN returned to the soil as the growth period progressed. According to the results regarding the change over time in the Cr/Cs content in radish parts, it is suggested that soil AN was well absorbed through the roots to circulate within the organism, and it is preferentially distributed and accumulated in the roots and leaves, which have high organic matter content.
Multi-Directional Viscous Damping Absorbing Boundary in Numerical Simulation of Elastic Wave Dynamic Response
Authors: Zhao Jianguo , Yu Yang , Xu Hao , Zhang Rongtang , Ma Yuxi , Li Jialiang
Published: March 2024

Numerical seismic wave field simulation is essential for studying the dynamic responses in semi-infinite space, and the absorbing boundary setting is critical for simulation accuracy. This study addresses spherical waves incident from the free boundary by applying dynamic equations and Rayleigh damping. A new multi-directional viscous damping absorbing boundary (MVDB) method is proposed based on regional attenuation. An approximate formula for the damping value is established, which can achieve absorbing the boundary setting by only solving the mass damping coefficients without increasing the absorbing region grid cells or depending on the spatial and temporal walking distance. The validity and stability of the proposed method are proven through numerical calculations with seismic sources incident from different angles. Meanwhile, the key parameters affecting the absorption of the MVDB are analyzed, and the best implementation scheme is provided. In order to meet the requirements of mediums with different elastic parameters for boundary absorption and ensure the high efficiency of numerical calculations, the damping amplitude control coefficients k can be set between 1.02 and 1.12, the thickness of the absorbing region L is set to 2–3 times of the wavelength of the incident transverse wave, and the thickness of the single absorbing layer is set to the size of the discrete mesh of the model Δl.
Surveillance of Bacterial Meningitis in the Italian Hospital of Desio: A Twenty-Year Retrospective Study
Authors: Intra Jari , Carcione Davide , Sala Roberta Maria , Siracusa Claudia , Brambilla Paolo , Leoni Valerio
Published: March 2024

Bacterial meningitis is a severe infection with a high fatality rate, and affects children in particular. Three vaccines against the most common bacterial causatives of meningitis, Haemophilus influenzae type b, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Neisseria meningitides, exist. Monitoring the type and incidence of bacterial meningitis is important for making future prevention and control plans. In this study, we retrospectively analyzed data regarding bacterial meningitis recovered in the Italian Hospital of Desio from 2000 to 2019. Samples from a total of 128 patients were included. Streptococcus pneumoniae was the most common microorganism, isolated in 45 cases, followed by Neisseria meningitidis (14), Listeria monocytogenes (8), Streptococcus agalactiae (group B) (4), and Haemophilus influenzae type b (2). The implementation of vaccination schedules decreased the number of bacterial meningitis cases caused by H. influenzae type b, S. pneumoniae, and N. meningitidis. Considering the bacterial meningitis cases in subjects aged 0–12 years, no H. influenzae type b strain was isolated, five cases of N. meningitidis were identified before the introduction of vaccination, and seven S. pneumoniae strains were isolated before the introduction of the PCV13 vaccination. Surveillance studies allowed us to monitor changes in bacteria distribution and to guide vaccination strategies.
Grey Wolf Optimizer with Behavior Considerations and Dimensional Learning in Three-Dimensional Tooth Model Reconstruction
Authors: Wongkhuenkaew Ritipong , Auephanwiriyakul Sansanee , Chaiworawitkul Marasri , Theera-Umpon Nipon , Yeesarapat Uklid
Published: March 2024

Three-dimensional registration with the affine transform is one of the most important steps in 3D reconstruction. In this paper, the modified grey wolf optimizer with behavior considerations and dimensional learning (BCDL-GWO) algorithm as a registration method is introduced. To refine the 3D registration result, we incorporate the iterative closet point (ICP). The BCDL-GWO with ICP method is implemented on the scanned commercial orthodontic tooth and regular tooth models. Since this is a registration from multi-views of optical images, the hierarchical structure is implemented. According to the results for both models, the proposed algorithm produces high-quality 3D visualization images with the smallest mean squared error of about 7.2186 and 7.3999 μm2, respectively. Our results are compared with the statistical randomization-based particle swarm optimization (SR-PSO). The results show that the BCDL-GWO with ICP is better than those from the SR-PSO. However, the computational complexities of both methods are similar.
Femtosecond Laser Cutting of Human Crystalline Lens Capsule and Decellularization for Corneal Endothelial Bioengineering
Authors: Ben Moussa Olfa , Parveau Louise , Aouimeur Inès , Egaud Grégory , Maurin Corantin , Fraine Sofiane , Urbaniak Sébastien , Perrache Chantal , He Zhiguo , Xxx Sedao , Dorado Cortez Oliver , Poinard Sylvain , Mauclair Cyril , Gain Philippe , Thuret Gilles
Published: March 2024

The bioengineering of corneal endothelial grafts consists of seeding in vitro cultured corneal endothelial cells onto a thin, transparent, biocompatible, and sufficiently robust carrier which can withstand surgical manipulations. This is one of the most realistic alternatives to donor corneas, which are in chronic global shortage. The anterior capsule of the crystalline lens has already been identified as one of the best possible carriers, but its challenging manual preparation has limited its use. In this study, we describe a femtosecond laser cutting process of the anterior capsule of whole lenses in order to obtain capsule discs of 8 mm diameter, similar to conventional endothelial grafts. Circular marks made on the periphery of the disc indicate its orientation. Immersion in water for 3 days is sufficient to completely remove the lens epithelial cells and to enable the seeding of corneal endothelial cells, which remain viable after 27 days of culture. Therefore, this method provides a transparent, decellularized disc ready to form viable tissue engineered endothelial grafts.
Integrated Analysis of lncRNAs and mRNAs Reveals Complex Gene Network Mediated by lncRNAs and Regulatory Function of MuLRR-RLK-AS in Response to Phytoplasma Infection in Mulberry
Authors: Liu Zixuan , Liu Chaorui , Zhao Teng , Yang Lulu , Shang Qiqi , Wang Gefan , Liu Zhaoyang , Gai Yingping , Ji Xianling
Published: March 2024

Phytoplasma disease is one of the most serious infectious diseases that affects the growth and development of mulberry. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play an important role in plants’ defense systems; however, the contribution of lncRNAs in the response to phytoplasma infection in mulberry is still largely unknown. Herein, strand-specific RNA sequencing was performed to profile the mRNAs and lncRNAs involved in the response to phytoplasma infection in mulberry, and a total of 4169 genes were found to be differentially expressed (DE) between healthy and phytoplasma-infected leaves. Moreover, 1794 lncRNAs were identified, of which 742 lncRNAs were DE between healthy and infected leaves. Target prediction showed that there were 68 and 44 DE lncRNAs which may function as cis and trans-regulators, targeting 54 and 44 DE genes, respectively. These DE target genes are associated with biological processes such as metabolism, signaling, development, transcriptional regulation, etc. In addition, it was found that the expression of the antisense lncRNA (MuLRR-RLK-AS) of the leucine-rich repeat receptor-like protein kinase gene (MuLRR-RLK) was decreased in the phytoplasma-infected leaves. Interestingly, it was found that overexpression of MuLRR-RLK-AS can inhibit the expression of MuLRR-RLK. Moreover, it was found that the expression levels of PTI-related and MAPK genes in the transgenic MuLRR-RLK Arabidopsis plants were significantly higher than those in the wild-type plants when inoculated with pathogens, and the transgenic plants were conferred with strong disease resistance. Our results demonstrate that MuLRR-RLK-AS, as a trans-regulatory factor, can inhibit the expression of the MuLRR-RLK gene and is a negative regulatory factor for mulberry resistance. The information provided is particularly useful for understanding the functions and mechanisms of lncRNAs in the response to phytoplasma infection in mulberry.
Investigating Biomechanical Postural Control Strategies in Healthy Aging Adults and Survivors of Stroke
Authors: Thompson Lara A. , Melendez Roni A. Romero , Chen Ji
Published: March 2024

As the aging populations, both nationwide and worldwide, rapidly increase, falls leading to unintentional injury and death subsequently increase. Thus, developing an understanding of biomechanical postural control strategies used to maintain balance in aging healthy adults, and those that have suffered stroke, are critical. Here, we were interested in how one’s body segments stabilize relative to one another, and in space, in order to maintain balance. To accomplish this goal, we studied 30 healthy individuals and 8 survivors of stroke between 60 and 85 years old, both before and after several weeks of sensory training. Motion capture data were acquired to assess participants’ body kinematics during walking: forward (easiest), forward-tandem, backward, and backward-tandem walking (most challenging). Deviations (via the observation of the absolute angle with deviations, or AADs) of the head, thorax, and lumbar areas relative to an earth vertical reference, as well as how one body segment stabilized in space or relative to the inferior body segment (via the observation of anchoring indices, or AIs), were explored. The results provide metrics (AADs and AIs) that can assess aging posture. Further, the results show an initial indication that, for aging individuals, training could lead to improved head and body stabilization in space.
Dissociation between Selecting and Orienting Attentional Reading Deficits: A Study in Adults with Epilepsy
Authors: Siéroff Eric , Slama Yael , Manouvrier Jordane , Laurent Agathe
Published: March 2024

Word reading requires a range of spatial attention processes, such as orienting to a specific word and selecting it while ignoring other words. This study investigated whether deficits of these spatial attention processes can show dissociations after hemispheric lesions. Thirty-nine patients with left or right focal epilepsy and 66 healthy participants had to read aloud four-letter words presented in the left and right visual hemifields. There were three successive blocks of presentation: in the unilateral block, a single word was presented in one of the visual hemifields; in the bilateral block, two words were presented simultaneously, one in each visual hemifield; in the cued block, two words were also presented, but only the cued word had to be reported. Twenty-one patients, twelve with a left and nine with a right hemisphere lesion, showed a word reading deficit. Four had specific difficulties in the cued block, suggesting an attentional selection reading deficit. Twelve patients had an asymmetric reading deficit, suggesting an attention orientation or a visual field deficit. Five patients had more complex deficits. The visual field presentation procedure may help to reveal different types of reading disorders in patients with epilepsy and to dissociate orienting and selecting deficits.
Adherence to Epilepsy’s Medical Recommendations
Authors: Jopowicz Anna , Piechal Agnieszka , Bronisz Elżbieta , Kurkowska-Jastrzębska Iwona
Published: March 2024

The primary problem in the treatment of epilepsy is poor seizure control. Several studies have shown that non-adherence to doctors’ recommendations regarding drug dosage, time of drug administration as well as lifestyle modifications are the most frequent causes of the persistence or reoccurrence of seizures, other than cases of misdiagnosis and poor drug selection. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of non-compliance with medical recommendations, both in relation to medicine dosage, regularity of administration and lifestyle, and also to determine the factors affecting patients with diagnosed epilepsy. This study was carried out on a total of 169 patients diagnosed with epilepsy who were under the care of an outpatient neurology clinic. The assessment of compliance was performed using the Patient Rating of Compliance Scale (PRCS), Clinician Rating Scale (CRS) and authors’ scale. Depending on the scale used, varying degrees of non-compliance were noted. They were as follows—65.3% on the authors’ scale, 10% on the PRCS and 9% on the CRS. The following factors influenced compliance with doctors’ recommendations: type of epilepsy, consumption of alcoholic beverages, frequency of follow-up visits to the neurology clinic, type of pharmacotherapy and number of medicines taken.
Cognitive Biases and Socio-Occupational Functioning Mediate the Relationship between Executive Functions and the Severity of Psychopathology among Young Adults with Psychotic-like Experiences: 1-Year Follow-Up Study
Authors: Arciszewska-Leszczuk Aleksandra , Cechnicki Andrzej , Frydecka Dorota , Kruk Dawid , Gawęda Łukasz
Published: March 2024

The aim of this study was to investigate whether Trail Making Test (TMT) performance is associated with the severity of psychopathological symptoms related to psychosis among young adults with elevated level of psychotic-like experiences (PLEs), and whether this relationship is mediated by cognitive biases and socio-occupational functioning. A total of 187 subjects from a larger population of 6722 young adults participated in this 1-year follow-up study. The inclusion criteria were an elevated level of PLEs (the highest score of the Prodromal Questionnaire) and a lack of schizophrenia diagnosis. Eventually, 134 subjects (71.6%) completed the TMT, as well as the DACOBS scale (cognitive biases), at baseline and were examined twice using the CAARMS (psychopathology) and SOFAS (socio-occupational functioning) scales. In the first (I) and second (II) measurements, the calculated effects indicate indirect-only mediations, which explained 35 and 38% of the variance of the CAARMS. The TMT B execution time was positively associated with the DACOBS scale (β = 0.19, p = 0.028), which was negatively related to the SOFAS I (β = −0.37, p < 0.001) and SOFAS II (β = −0.20, p = 0.016) measurements. A lower score on the SOFAS I predicted a higher score on the CAARMS I (β = −0.50, p < 0.001), and a lower SOFAS II predicted a higher score on the CAARMS II (β = −0.61, p < 0.001). Subtle EF dysfunctions may, over time, translate into a greater severity of symptoms related to psychosis in people with elevated PLEs, and this is mediated by a deterioration of their metacognition and socio-occupational functioning.
Increased O-GlcNAcylation by Upregulation of Mitochondrial O-GlcNAc Transferase (mOGT) Inhibits the Activity of Respiratory Chain Complexes and Controls Cellular Bioenergetics
Authors: Jóźwiak Paweł , Oracz Joanna , Dziedzic Angela , Szelenberger Rafał , Żyżelewicz Dorota , Bijak Michał , Krześlak Anna
Published: March 2024

O-linked β-N-acetylglucosamine (O-GlcNAc) is a reversible post-translational modification involved in the regulation of cytosolic, nuclear, and mitochondrial proteins. The interplay between O-GlcNAcylation and phosphorylation is critical to control signaling pathways and maintain cellular homeostasis. The addition of O-GlcNAc moieties to target proteins is catalyzed by O-linked N-acetylglucosamine transferase (OGT). Of the three splice variants of OGT described, one is destined for the mitochondria (mOGT). Although the effects of O-GlcNAcylation on the biology of normal and cancer cells are well documented, the role of mOGT remains poorly understood. In this manuscript, the effects of mOGT on mitochondrial protein phosphorylation, electron transport chain (ETC) complex activity, and the expression of VDAC porins were investigated. We performed studies using normal and breast cancer cells with upregulated mOGT or its catalytically inactive mutant. Proteomic approaches included the isolation of O-GlcNAc-modified proteins of the electron transport chain, followed by their analysis using mass spectrometry. We found that mitochondrial OGT regulates the activity of complexes I-V of the respiratory chain and identified a group of 19 ETC components as mOGT substrates in mammary cells. Furthermore, we observed that the upregulation of mOGT inhibited the interaction of VDAC1 with hexokinase II. Our results suggest that the deregulation of mOGT reprograms cellular energy metabolism via interaction with and O-GlcNAcylation of proteins involved in ATP production in mitochondria and its exchange between mitochondria and the cytosol.
Palliative Quad Shot Radiation Therapy with or without Concurrent Immune Checkpoint Inhibition for Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Upadhyay Rituraj , Gogineni Emile , Tocaj Glenis , Ma Sung J. , Bonomi Marcelo , Bhateja Priyanka , Konieczkowski David J. , Baliga Sujith , Mitchell Darrion L. , Jhawar Sachin R. , Zhu Simeng , Grecula John C. , Dibs Khaled , Gamez Mauricio E. , Blakaj Dukagjin M.
Published: March 2024

Objectives: Patients with recurrent and metastatic head and neck cancer (HNC) have limited treatment options. ‘QuadShot’ (QS), a hypofractionated palliative radiotherapy regimen, can provide symptomatic relief and local control and may potentiate the effects of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). We compared outcomes of QS ± concurrent ICIs in the palliative treatment of HNC. Materials and Methods: We identified patients who received ≥three cycles of QS from 2017 to 2022 and excluded patients without post-treatment clinical evaluation or imaging. Outcomes for patients who received QS alone were compared to those treated with ICI concurrent with QS, defined as receipt of ICI within 4 weeks of QS. Results: Seventy patients were included, of whom 57% received concurrent ICI. Median age was 65.5 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 57.9–77.8), and 50% patients had received prior radiation to a median dose of 66 Gy (IQR: 60–70). Median follow-up was 8.8 months. Local control was significantly higher with concurrent ICIs (12-month: 85% vs. 63%, p = 0.038). Distant control (12-month: 56% vs. 63%, p = 0.629) and median overall survival (9.0 vs. 10.0 months, p = 0.850) were similar between the two groups. On multivariable analysis, concurrent ICI was a significant predictor of local control (HR for local failure: 0.238; 95% CI: 0.073–0.778; p = 0.018). Overall, 23% patients experienced grade 3 toxicities, which was similar between the two groups. Conclusions: The combination of QS with concurrent ICIs was well tolerated and significantly improved local control compared to QS alone. The median OS of 9.4 months compares favorably to historical controls for patients with HNC treated with QS. This approach represents a promising treatment option for patients with HNC unsuited for curative-intent treatment and warrants prospective evaluation.
Study International Multicentric Pancreatic Left Resections (SIMPLR): Does Surgical Approach Matter?
Authors: Acciuffi Sara , Hilal Mohammed Abu , Ferrari Clarissa , Al-Madhi Sara , Chouillard Marc-Anthony , Messaoudi Nouredin , Croner Roland S. , Gumbs Andrew A.
Published: March 2024

Background: Minimally invasive surgery is increasingly preferred for left-sided pancreatic resections. The SIMPLR study aims to compare open, laparoscopic, and robotic approaches using propensity score matching analysis. Methods: This study included 258 patients with tumors of the left side of the pancreas who underwent surgery between 2016 and 2020 at three high-volume centers. The patients were divided into three groups based on their surgical approach and matched in a 1:1 ratio. Results: The open group had significantly higher estimated blood loss (620 mL vs. 320 mL, p < 0.001), longer operative time (273 vs. 216 min, p = 0.003), and longer hospital stays (16.9 vs. 6.81 days, p < 0.001) compared to the laparoscopic group. There was no difference in lymph node yield or resection status. When comparing open and robotic groups, the robotic procedures yielded a higher number of lymph nodes (24.9 vs. 15.2, p = 0.011) without being significantly longer. The laparoscopic group had a shorter operative time (210 vs. 340 min, p < 0.001), shorter ICU stays (0.63 vs. 1.64 days, p < 0.001), and shorter hospital stays (6.61 vs. 11.8 days, p < 0.001) when compared to the robotic group. There was no difference in morbidity or mortality between the three techniques. Conclusion: The laparoscopic approach exhibits short-term benefits. The three techniques are equivalent in terms of oncological safety, morbidity, and mortality.
Advancements in the Treatment Landscape of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Kimura Takefumi
Published: March 2024

The landscape of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) treatment has expanded significantly with the advent of multi-kinase inhibitors and immune checkpoint inhibitors [...]
Immunotherapy and Radiation Therapy Combinatorial Approaches in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Tojjari Alireza , Yu James , Saeed Anwaar
Published: March 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a prevalent and often fatal liver cancer, presents significant treatment challenges, especially in its advanced stages. This article delves into the promising approach of combining immunotherapy, particularly immune checkpoint inhibitors, with radiation therapy, a cornerstone of HCC management. Our review synthesizes current preclinical and clinical research, highlighting the potential synergistic effects of this combinational treatment. Emerging evidence suggests that this synergy enhances tumor control and improves patient survival rates. The combination leverages the localized, tumor-targeting ability of radiation therapy and the systemic, immune-boosting effects of immunotherapy, potentially overcoming the limitations inherent in each treatment modality when used separately. This integrative approach is especially promising in addressing the complex tumor microenvironment of HCC. However, the treatment landscape is nuanced, with challenges such as patient-specific response variability and potential resistance to therapies. Future research directions should focus on refining these combination strategies, tailoring them to individual patient profiles, and understanding the underlying mechanisms that govern the interaction between immunotherapy and radiation therapy. Such advancements could significantly improve HCC management, setting new standards for patient care and treatment efficacy.
Identification of GB3 as a Novel Biomarker of Tumor-Derived Vasculature in Neuroblastoma Using a Stiffness-Based Model
Authors: Villasante Aranzazu , Corominas Josep , Alcon Clara , Garcia-Lizarribar Andrea , Mora Jaume , Lopez-Fanarraga Monica , Samitier Josep
Published: March 2024

Neuroblastoma (NB) is a childhood cancer in sympathetic nervous system cells. NB exhibits cellular heterogeneity, with adrenergic and mesenchymal states displaying distinct tumorigenic potentials. NB is highly vascularized, and blood vessels can form through various mechanisms, including endothelial transdifferentiation, leading to the development of tumor-derived endothelial cells (TECs) associated with chemoresistance. We lack specific biomarkers for TECs. Therefore, identifying new TEC biomarkers is vital for effective NB therapies. A stiffness-based platform simulating human arterial and venous stiffness was developed to study NB TECs in vitro. Adrenergic cells cultured on arterial-like stiffness transdifferentiated into TECs, while mesenchymal state cells did not. The TECs derived from adrenergic cells served as a model to explore new biomarkers, with a particular focus on GB3, a glycosphingolipid receptor implicated in angiogenesis, metastasis, and drug resistance. Notably, the TECs unequivocally expressed GB3, validating its novelty as a marker. To explore targeted therapeutic interventions, nanoparticles functionalized with the non-toxic subunit B of the Shiga toxin were generated, because they demonstrated a robust affinity for GB3-positive cells. Our results demonstrate the value of the stiffness-based platform as a predictive tool for assessing NB aggressiveness, the discovery of new biomarkers, and the evaluation of the effectiveness of targeted therapeutic strategies.
Quantification of Polystyrene Uptake by Different Cell Lines Using Fluorescence Microscopy and Label-Free Visualization of Intracellular Polystyrene Particles by Raman Microspectroscopic Imaging
Authors: Roth Amelie , Tannert Astrid , Ziller Nadja , Eiserloh Simone , Göhrig Bianca , Guliev Rustam R. , Gonzalez Vazquez María José , Naumann Max , Mosig Alexander S. , Stengel Sven , Heutelbeck Astrid R. R. , Neugebauer Ute
Published: March 2024

Environmental pollution caused by plastic is a present problem. Polystyrene is a widely used packaging material (e.g., Styrofoam) that can be broken down into microplastics through abrasion. Once the plastic is released into the environment, it is dispersed by wind and atmospheric dust. In this study, we investigated the uptake of polystyrene particles into human cells using A549 cells as a model of the alveolar epithelial barrier, CaCo-2 cells as a model of the intestinal epithelial barrier, and THP-1 cells as a model of immune cells to simulate a possible uptake of microplastics by inhalation, oral uptake, and interaction with the cellular immune system, respectively. The uptake of fluorescence-labeled beads by the different cell types was investigated by confocal laser scanning microscopy in a semi-quantitative, concentration-dependent manner. Additionally, we used Raman spectroscopy as a complementary method for label-free qualitative detection and the visualization of polystyrene within cells. The uptake of polystyrene beads by all investigated cell types was detected, while the uptake behavior of professional phagocytes (THP-1) differed from that of adherent epithelial cells.
Nicotinamide Riboside Augments Human Macrophage Migration via SIRT3-Mediated Prostaglandin E2 Signaling
Authors: Wu Jing , Bley Maximilian , Steans Russell S. , Meadows Allison M. , Huffstutler Rebecca D. , Tian Rong , Griffin Julian L. , Sack Michael N.
Published: March 2024

NAD+ boosting via nicotinamide riboside (NR) confers anti-inflammatory effects. However, its underlying mechanisms and therapeutic potential remain incompletely defined. Here, we showed that NR increased the expression of CC-chemokine receptor 7 (CCR7) in human M1 macrophages by flow cytometric analysis of cell surface receptors. Consequently, chemokine ligand 19 (CCL19, ligand for CCR7)-induced macrophage migration was enhanced following NR administration. Metabolomics analysis revealed that prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) was increased by NR in human monocytes and in human serum following in vivo NR supplementation. Furthermore, NR-mediated upregulation of macrophage migration through CCL19/CCR7 was dependent on PGE2 synthesis. We also demonstrated that NR upregulated PGE2 synthesis through SIRT3-dependent post-transcriptional regulation of cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2). The NR/SIRT3/migration axis was further validated using the scratch-test model where NR and SIRT3 promoted more robust migration across a uniformly disrupted macrophage monolayer. Thus, NR-mediated metabolic regulation of macrophage migration and wound healing may have therapeutic potential for the topical management of chronic wound healing.
Correction: Wu et al. A Novel Truncated DNAzyme Modified Paper Analytical Device for Point-of-Care Test of Copper Ions in Natural Waters. Chemosensors 2022, 10, 72
Authors: Wu Jiayi , Wang Ming , Hong Huanhuan , Lin Jianyuan , Gan Ning , Bi Wenchao
Published: March 2024

The authors make the following corrections to the published paper [...]
Executive Functioning and Language in a Pediatric Population with Autism Spectrum Disorders and Epilepsy: A Comparative Study
Authors: Cano-Villagrasa Alejandro , Porcar-Gozalbo Nadia , López-Chicheri Isabel , López-Zamora Miguel
Published: March 2024

In recent years, there has been an increase in the prevalence of comorbidity between ASD and epilepsy in the pediatric population. Children with ASD and epilepsy often exhibit greater impairments in executive functions such as cognitive flexibility, planning, inhibition, and emotional control, as well as in language dimensions such as phonology, semantics, morphosyntax, and pragmatics. These impairments can significantly impact their maturation and development. The aim of this study was to assess and compare the executive functioning and language skills of 150 participants, divided into three groups: one with ASD only, another with epilepsy only, and the third group with both ASD and epilepsy. The study utilized the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF-2) and Neuropsychological Evaluation of Executive Functions in Children (ENFEN) to assess executive functions, and Clinical Evaluation of Language Fundamentals 5 (CELF-5) to evaluate language skills. The results indicated that participants with this comorbidity had lower scores in both executive functioning and language skills compared to children with only ASD or epilepsy. The presence of epilepsy significantly limits the executive and linguistic performance of children with ASD, negatively affecting language acquisition, functionality, and the ability to carry out basic life activities independently.
Epidemiological Features of Infectious Diseases in Children and Adolescents: A Population-Based Observational Study in Shandong Province, China, 2013–2017
Authors: Wang Wenjing , Wang Haitao , Song Ke , Wang Baoyu , Xue Fuzhong , Zhao Lin , Cao Wuchun ,   Cheeloo EcoHealth Consortium (CLEC)
Published: March 2024

Background: The arrival of the big-data era provides us with a chance to elaborate the spectrum and epidemiological characteristics of infectious diseases in children and adolescents aged 0–18 years in the pre-COVID-19 pandemic era. Methods: We collected data on infectious diseases in 891,981 participants from the Cheeloo Lifespan Electronic Health Research Data-library. The incidence density of each infection was calculated and stratified by age and region. The annual percentage change (APC) in incidence was estimated by logarithmic linear regression. Results: A total of 18,183 cases of 78 infections were diagnosed, with an overall incidence density of 626.33 per 100,000 person-years (PY). Of these, 6825 cases of 50 non-notifiable infectious diseases were identified. Children aged 1–3 years had the highest incidence of infections. The overall incidence revealed a significant increasing trend from 2013 to 2017 (APC = 36.9%, p < 0.05). Hand, foot, and mouth disease, pneumonia, and influenza were the three most common diseases. The incidence of pneumonia, rubella, scarlet fever, zoster, molluscum contagiosum, and syphilis increased significantly during the study period (all p < 0.05). Taian, Binzhou, and Weihai had the highest incidence of all other cities. The incidence of gastrointestinal infections increased markedly in the eastern coastal regions. Conclusions: More stress should be placed on a number of non-notifiable infectious diseases with a high burden and a significant increasing trend. Age-based and regional targeting efforts are needed to prevent and contain infectious diseases among children and adolescents.
Transcriptome and Metabolome Analyses Provide Insight into the Glucose-Induced Adipogenesis in Porcine Adipocytes
Authors: Jiang Susu , Zhang Guohua , Miao Jian , Wu Dianhu , Li Ximei , Li Jiawei , Lu Jianxiong , Gun Shuangbao
Published: March 2024

Glucose is a major energy substrate for porcine adipocytes and also serves as a regulatory signal for adipogenesis and lipid metabolism. In this study, we combined transcriptome and metabolome analyses to reveal the underlying regulatory mechanisms of high glucose (HG) on adipogenesis by comparing differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs) identified in porcine adipocytes. Results showed that HG (20 mmol/L) significantly increased fat accumulation in porcine adipocytes compared to low glucose (LG, 5 mmol/L). A total of 843 DEGs and 365 DAMs were identified. Functional enrichment analyses of DEGs found that multiple pathways were related to adipogenesis, lipid metabolism, and immune-inflammatory responses. PPARγ, C/EBPα, ChREBP, and FOS were identified as the key hub genes through module 3 analysis, and PPARγ acted as a central regulator by linking genes involved in lipid metabolism and immune-inflammatory responses. Gene-metabolite networks found that PPARγ-13-HODE was the most important interaction relationship. These results revealed that PPARγ could mediate the cross-talk between adipogenesis and the immune-inflammatory response during adipocyte maturation. This work provides a comprehensive view of the regulatory mechanisms of glucose on adipogenesis in porcine adipocytes.
Melanocortin Derivatives Induced Vascularization and Neuroglial Proliferation in the Rat Brain under Conditions of Cerebral Ischemia
Authors: Stavchansky Vasily V. , Yuzhakov Vadim V. , Sevan’kaeva Larisa E. , Fomina Natalia K. , Koretskaya Anastasia E. , Denisova Alina E. , Mozgovoy Ivan V. , Gubsky Leonid V. , Filippenkov Ivan B. , Myasoedov Nikolay F. , Limborska Svetlana A. , Dergunova Lyudmila V.
Published: March 2024

Stroke remains the second leading cause of death worldwide. The development of new therapeutic agents focused on restoring vascular function and neuroprotection of viable tissues is required. In this study the neuroprotective activity of melanocortin-like ACTH(4–7)PGP and ACTH(6–9)PGP peptides was investigated in rat brain at 24 h after transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (tMCAO). The severity of ischemic damage, changes in the proliferative activity of neuroglial cells and vascularization of rat brain tissue were analyzed. The administration of peptides resulted in a significant increase in the volume density of neurons in the perifocal zone of infarction compared to rats subjected to ischemia and receiving saline. Immunohistochemical analysis of the proliferative activity of neuroglia cells using PCNA antibodies showed a significant increase in the number of proliferating cells in the penumbra and in the intact cerebral cortex of rats receiving peptide treatment. The effect of peptides on vascularization was examined using CD31 antibodies under tMCAO conditions, revealing a significant increase in the volume density of vessels and their sizes in the penumbra after administration of ACTH(4–7)PGP and ACTH(6–9)PGP. These findings confirm the neuroprotective effect of peptides due to the activation of neuroglia proliferation and the enhancement of collateral blood flow.
Use of eDNA to Determine Source Locations of Deadly Jellyfish (Cubozoa) in an Open Coastal System
Authors: Morrissey Scott J. , Jerry Dean R. , Kingsford Michael J.
Published: March 2024

Challenges associated with cubozoan jellyfish detection and the limitations of current detection techniques limit the ability of scientists to fill critical knowledge gaps surrounding their ecology. Environmental DNA (eDNA), however, has proven useful as an ecological survey tool to detect and study these deadly jellyfish. This study aimed to leverage the power of eDNA to detect and explore the distribution of the Australian box jellyfish (Chironex fleckeri), encompassing both its medusae and polyp life history stages, within an open coastal bay (Horseshoe Bay) of Magnetic Island, Queensland, Australia. Our investigation focused on a hypothesis concerning the source locations of the jellyfish within Horseshoe Bay and, through a comparison of both life history stage distributions, aimed to determine potential population stock boundaries. eDNA results aligned with the predicted nearshore distribution of medusae. Further, the elusive benthic polyp stage was also detected. These findings confirmed Horseshoe Bay as a source location of the jellyfish. Moreover, our evidence supported a model that the area likely represents a population stock of the species. This adds to growing evidence suggesting some cubozoan jellyfish have population stocks of small spatial scales in both open and relatively closed ecosystems such as estuaries. In conclusion, this study serves as a notable example of eDNA’s ability to resolve critical knowledge gaps surrounding cubozoan ecology and to enhance the management ability of these deadly jellyfish to reduce envenomations.
Numerical Covariance Evaluation for Linear Structures Subject to Non-Stationary Random Inputs
Authors: Domaneschi M. , Cucuzza R. , Sardone L. , Lopez S. Londoño , Movahedi M. , Marano G. C.
Published: March 2024

Random vibration analysis is a mathematical tool that offers great advantages in predicting the mechanical response of structural systems subjected to external dynamic loads whose nature is intrinsically stochastic, as in cases of sea waves, wind pressure, and vibrations due to road asperity. Using random vibration analysis is possible, when the input is properly modeled as a stochastic process, to derive pieces of information about the structural response with a high quality (if compared with other tools), especially in terms of reliability prevision. Moreover, the random vibration approach is quite complex in cases of non-linearity cases, as well as for non-stationary inputs, as in cases of seismic events. For non-stationary inputs, the assessment of second-order spectral moments requires resolving the Lyapunov matrix differential equation. In this research, a numerical procedure is proposed, providing an expression of response in the state-space that, to our best knowledge, has not yet been presented in the literature, by using a formal justification in accordance with earthquake input modeled as a modulated white noise with evolutive parameters. The computational efforts are reduced by considering the symmetry feature of the covariance matrix. The adopted approach is applied to analyze a multi-story building, aiming to determine the reliability related to the maximum inter-story displacement surpassing a specified acceptable threshold. The building is presumed to experience seismic input characterized by a non-stationary process in both amplitude and frequency, utilizing a general Kanai–Tajimi earthquake input stationary model. The adopted case study is modeled in the form of a multi-degree-of-freedom plane shear frame system.
Patchouli Alcohol: A Potent Tyrosinase Inhibitor Derived from Patchouli Essential Oil with Potential in the Development of a Skin-Lightening Agent
Authors: Kumar K. J. Senthil , Vani M. Gokila , Chinnasamy Muthusamy , Lin Wan-Teng , Wang Sheng-Yang
Published: March 2024

The inhibitory effects of Pogostemon cablin essential oil (patchouli essential oil, PEO) and its primary bioactive compound, patchouli alcohol (PA), on tyrosinase and melanin were investigated in vitro and ex vivo. Treatment with PEO and PA significantly, as well as dose-dependently, reduced forskolin (FRK)-induced melanin biosynthesis, cellular tyrosinase activity, and tyrosinase (TYR) protein expression. However, the transcriptional levels of TYR and tyrosinase-related proteins (TRP-1 and TRP-2) remained unaffected. These results suggest that PEO and PA may directly interrupt tyrosinase enzyme activity, leading to a reduction in melanin biosynthesis. Further experiments supported this notion, revealing that both PEO and PA significantly and dose-dependently inhibited mushroom tyrosinase activity in both the monophenolase and diphenolase phases. Additionally, an in silico molecular docking analysis was performed, utilizing a homology model of human tyrosinase. In conclusion, these findings strongly suggest that patchouli essential oil and its primary bioactive component, patchouli alcohol, hold promise as potential treatments for hyperpigmentary skin conditions and in the development of cosmetic products designed to lighten the skin.
Public Debt and Economic Growth: A Panel Kink Regression Latent Group Structures Approach
Authors: Chen Chaoyi , Stengos Thanasis , Zhang Jianhan
Published: March 2024

This paper investigates the relationship between public debt and economic growth in the context of a panel kink regression with latent group structures. The proposed model allows us to explore the heterogeneous threshold effects of public debt on economic growth based on unknown group patterns. We propose a least squares estimator and demonstrate the consistency of estimating group structures. The finite sample performance of the proposed estimator is evaluated by simulations. Our findings reveal that the nonlinear relationship between public debt and economic growth is characterized by a heterogeneous threshold level, which varies among different groups, and highlight that the mixed results found in previous studies may stem from the assumption of a homogeneous threshold effect.
Nurturing Body Literacy: Transforming Education in the Virtual Reality Era to Shape Children’s Identities and Redefine Educator Roles
Authors: Digennaro Simone , Visocchi Angela
Published: March 2024

The virtual reality era has ushered in significant changes in the identity formation process of children and young individuals. This exploratory research intervention investigates the correlation between social media use and its potential influence on body image development in 9- to 10-year-old children. This study employs a qualitative research-intervention design comprising three phases: focus group discussions, the implementation of an educational intervention, and post-intervention assessments. The research was conducted with 50 children attending a primary school in Cassino, Italy. The findings underscore the importance of nurturing a positive body image from early childhood. This entails emphasising the development of various vital elements within the construct of body literacy, including body awareness, body interception, body perception, and body comprehension. Educators play a critical role in empowering children to foster a healthy body image by adopting an educational approach rooted in the principles of body literacy. The school environment emerges as an ideal setting for promoting body literacy, thus contributing to children’s holistic development and well-being in an age dominated by virtual reality and social media influences.