bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prospective Observational Study of a Non-Arthroscopic Autologous Cartilage Micrografting Technology for Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Tsoukas Dimitrios , Muntean Ilie , Simos Christos , Sabido-Vera Ruben
Published: November 2023

Autologous micrografting technology (AMT®) involves the use of autologous micrografts to stimulate/enhance the repair of damaged tissue. This study assessed the efficacy and safety of the AMT® procedure in patients with early stages of knee osteoarthritis. Briefly, the AMT® procedure involved extraction of auricular cartilage, disaggregation using the Rigeneracons® SRT in 4.0 mL of saline solution, and injection of the disaggregated micrografts into the external femorotibial compartment area of the affected knee. Ten patients (4 men, 6 women; age range: 37–84 years) were included in the study. In all patients, there was a steady improvement in knee instability, pain, swelling, mechanical locking, stair climbing, and squatting at 1- and 6-months post-procedure. Improvement in mobility was observed as early as 3 weeks post-procedure in 2 patients. Significant improvements were seen in mean scores of all five subscales of Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS [KOOS symptoms, KOOS pain, KOOS ADL, KOOS sport and recreation, and KOOS quality-of-life]) between pre-procedure and 1- and 6-months post-procedure (all p ≤ 0.05). Autologous auricular cartilage micrografts obtained by AMT® procedure (using Rigenera® technology) is an effective and safe protocol in the treatment of early stage knee osteoarthritis. These encouraging findings need to be validated in a larger patient population and in a randomized clinical trial (RCT).
Exploring the Disease-Associated Microglia State in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Jauregui Carlota , Blanco-Luquin Idoia , Macías Mónica , Roldan Miren , Caballero Cristina , Pagola Inma , Mendioroz Maite , Jericó Ivonne
Published: November 2023

Background: Neuroinflammation, and specifically microglia, plays an important but not-yet well-understood role in the pathophysiology of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), constituting a potential therapeutic target for the disease. Recent studies have described the involvement of different microglial transcriptional patterns throughout neurodegenerative processes, identifying a new state of microglia: disease-associated microglia (DAM). The aim of this study is to investigate expression patterns of microglial-related genes in ALS spinal cord. Methods: We analyzed mRNA expression levels via RT-qPCR of several microglia-related genes in their homeostatic and DAM state in postmortem tissue (anterior horn of the spinal cord) from 20 subjects with ALS-TDP43 and 19 controls donors from the Navarrabiomed Biobank. Results: The expression levels of TREM2, MS4A, CD33, APOE and TYROBP were found to be elevated in the spinal cord from ALS subjects versus controls (p-value < 0.05). However, no statistically significant gene expression differences were observed for TMEM119, SPP1 and LPL. Conclusions: This study suggests that a DAM-mediated inflammatory response is present in ALS, and TREM2 plays a significant role in immune function of microglia. It also supports the role of C33 and MS4A in the physiopathology of ALS.
Long-Term Clinical Outcomes of Ahmed Valve Implantation in Aniridic Glaucoma
Authors: Bolek Bartłomiej , Wylęgała Edward , Tarnawska Dorota
Published: November 2023

Background: This study assessed the efficacy and safety of Ahmed valve implantation in patients with aniridic glaucoma for three consecutive years. Methods: Six adult patients (seven eyes) with Ahmed valve (AV) implants for aniridic glaucoma were enrolled in the study. The primary outcome measures were intraocular pressure reduction, glaucoma medication use, success rates, and visual acuity after AV implantation. A 30% reduction in IOP from baseline without the need for re-intervention was considered an effective treatment. The cessation of antiglaucoma medications was defined as complete success. Intraoperative and postoperative complications were included as secondary outcome measures. Measurements were performed preoperatively, at the first week, and 1, 3, 6, 12, 18, 24, 30, and 36 months postoperatively. Results: A total of seven eyes (6 patients) were evaluated 36 months after AV implantation. The mean ± SD values of IOP preoperatively at 1 day, 1 week, and 1, 3, 6, 12, 18, 24, 30, and 36 months postoperatively were 30.4 ± 4.0 mmHg, 14.6 ± 4.6 mmHg, 16.1 ± 4.6 mmHg, 20.7 ± 7.0 mmHg, 14.5 ± 2.7 mmHg, 16.5 ± 5.9 mmHg, 16.2 ± 4.0 mmHg, 16.3 ± 4.3 mmHg, 17.2 ± 10.1 mmHg, 17.6 ± 6.9 mmHg, and 18.2 ± 5.5 mmHg, respectively. At the last follow up, the mean IOP was reduced by 40.2%. The qualified success rate was 85.7%. One patient (one eye) at the last follow-up visit did not require antiglaucoma medications, resulting in a complete success rate of 14.3%. Intra- and postoperative mild or moderate subconjunctival bleeding was observed in all the patients. No other major/minor intraoperative or postoperative complications were noted. Conclusions: In long-term follow up, the AV implantation procedure is well-tolerated and relatively safe for reducing IOP in adult aniridia patients with glaucoma. These results should be validated through studies involving a larger patient cohort.
Adipokines in Rheumatoid Arthritis: Emerging Biomarkers and Therapeutic Targets
Authors: Bilski Jan , Schramm-Luc Agata , Szczepanik Marian , Mazur-Biały Agnieszka Irena , Bonior Joanna , Luc Kevin , Zawojska Klaudia , Szklarczyk Joanna
Published: November 2023

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease manifested by joint involvement, extra-articular manifestations, and general symptoms. Adipose tissue, previously perceived as an inert energy storage organ, has been recognised as a significant contributor to RA pathophysiology. Adipokines modulate immune responses, inflammation, and metabolic pathways in RA. Although most adipokines have a pro-inflammatory and aggravating effect on RA, some could counteract this pathological process. The coexistence of RA and sarcopenic obesity (SO) has gained attention due to its impact on disease severity and outcomes. Sarcopenic obesity further contributes to the inflammatory milieu and metabolic disturbances. Recent research has highlighted the intricate crosstalk between adipose tissue and skeletal muscle, suggesting potential interactions between these tissues in RA. This review summarizes the roles of adipokines in RA, particularly in inflammation, immune modulation, and joint destruction. In addition, it explores the emerging role of adipomyokines, specifically irisin and myostatin, in the pathogenesis of RA and their potential as therapeutic targets. We discuss the therapeutic implications of targeting adipokines and adipomyokines in RA management and highlight the challenges and future directions for research in this field.
How the Spreading and Intensity of Interictal Epileptic Activity Are Associated with Visuo-Spatial Skills in Children with Self-Limited Focal Epilepsy with Centro-Temporal Spikes
Authors: Dontaine Pauline , Rouge Coralie , Urbain Charline , Galer Sophie , Raffoul Romain , Nonclercq Antoine , Van Dyck Dorine , Baijot Simon , Aeby Alec
Published: November 2023

This paper investigates brain–behaviour associations between interictal epileptic discharges and cognitive performance in a population of children with self-limited focal epilepsy with centro-temporal spikes (SeLECTS). Sixteen patients with SeLECTS underwent an extensive neuropsychological assessment, including verbal short-term and episodic memory, non-verbal short-term memory, attentional abilities and executive function. Two quantitative EEG indices were analysed, i.e., the Spike Wave Index (SWI) and the Spike Wave Frequency (SWF), and one qualitative EEG index, i.e., the EEG score, was used to evaluate the spreading of focal SW to other parts of the brain. We investigated associations between EEG indices and neuropsychological performance with non-parametric Spearman correlation analyses, including correction for multiple comparisons. The results showed a significant negative correlation between (i) the awake EEG score and the Block Tapping Test, a visuo-spatial short-term memory task, and (ii) the sleep SWI and the Tower of London, a visuo-spatial planning task (pcorr < 0.05). These findings suggest that, in addition to the usual quantitative EEG indices, the EEG analysis should include the qualitative EEG score evaluating the spreading of focal SW to other parts of the brain and that neuropsychological assessment should include visuo-spatial skills.
A Bridge Information Modeling (BrIM) Framework for Inspection and Maintenance Intervention in Reinforced Concrete Bridges
Authors: Mohamed Ahmed Gouda , Khaled Ahmed , Abotaleb Ibrahim S.
Published: November 2023

Reinforced concrete bridges (RCBs) are essential elements of transportation infrastructure, necessitating ongoing inspection and maintenance to guarantee their durability and structural integrity. This research aims to develop an integrated framework for inspection and maintenance intervention in reinforced concrete bridges (RCB), leveraging the potential of as-is Bridge Information Modeling (BrIM). The methodology begins by converting 2D drawings into a 3D as-is BrIM model, facilitating a more accurate representation of the bridge’s current state. This is followed by creating a comprehensive bridge inventory, allowing for meticulous tracking of vital components and their condition. Subsequently, inspection data are acquired using advanced sensing technologies, enabling real-time data collection and analysis. Structural defects are modeled on the as-is BrIM model to enhance diagnostic capabilities, providing a visual representation of areas requiring intervention. The framework also makes it easier to create reports, ensuring that important information is efficiently shared with the right people. A thorough case study using a concrete bridge is used to show the effectiveness of the created framework. The BrIM framework’s potential to improve the bridge inspection and maintenance process was demonstrated by integrating inspection reporting with BrIM, which produced encouraging results. The research contribution to the body of knowledge is significant as the developed framework considerably enhances the administration of bridge inspection and maintenance procedures, resulting in greater efficacy by offering a thorough and clear picture of the bridge’s current state.
Optimization of a Three-Dimensional Culturing Method for Assessing the Impact of Cisplatin on Notch Signaling in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC)
Authors: Anameriç Alinda , Czerwonka Arkadiusz , Nees Matthias
Published: November 2023

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a prevalent cancer type, with cisplatin being a primary treatment approach. However, drug resistance and therapy failure pose a significant challenge, affecting nearly 50% of patients over time. This research had two aims: (1) to optimize a 3D cell-culture method for assessing the interplay between tumor cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in vitro; and (2) to study how cisplatin impacts the Notch pathway, particularly considering the role of CAFs. Using our optimized “3D sheet model” approach, we tested two HNSCC cell lines with different cisplatin sensitivities and moderate, non-mutated NOTCH1 and -3 expressions. Combining cisplatin with a γ-secretase inhibitor (crenigacestat) increased sensitivity and induced cell death in the less sensitive cell line, while cisplatin alone was more effective in the moderately sensitive line and sensitivity decreased with the Notch inhibitor. Cisplatin boosted the expression of core Notch signaling proteins in 3D monocultures of both lines, which was counteracted by crenigacestat. In contrast, the presence of patient-derived CAFs mitigated effects and protected both cell lines from cisplatin toxicity. Elevated NOTCH1 and NOTCH3 protein levels were consistently correlated with reduced cisplatin sensitivity and increased cell survival. Additionally, the Notch ligand JAG2 had additional, protective effects reducing cell death from cisplatin exposure. In summary, we observed an inverse relationship between NOTCH1 and NOTCH3 levels and cisplatin responsiveness, overall protective effects by CAFs, and a potential link between JAG2 expression with tumor cell survival.
Gene Expression and DNA Methylation as Prognostic Markers in Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer: Analysis of Circulating Tumor Cells and Paired Plasma-Derived Exosomes
Authors: Hussein Mohamed Ali , Munirathinam Gnanasekar
Published: November 2023

Prostate cancer (PCa) is the most prevalent cancer among men and is the second leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States [...]
Fertility and Pregnancy Outcomes after Fertility-Sparing Surgery for Early-Stage Borderline Ovarian Tumors and Epithelial Ovarian Cancer: A Single-Center Study
Authors: Ko Mu-En , Lin Yi-Heng , Huang Kuan-Ju , Chang Wen-Chun , Sheu Bor-Ching
Published: November 2023

This study examined treatment outcomes, including preserved fertility, menstrual regularity, and pregnancy outcomes, in patients with stage I epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) or borderline ovarian tumors (BOTs) who underwent fertility-sparing surgery (FSS). Patients with stage I EOC and BOTs who were aged 18–45 years and underwent FSS between 2007 and 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. Significant differences between various subgroups in terms of disease recurrence, menstrual irregularity due to the disease, and pregnancy outcomes were analyzed. A total of 71 patients with BOTs and 33 patients with EOC were included. In the BOT group, the median age was 30 (range, 19–44) years. Recurrence occurred in eight patients, with one case exhibiting a malignant transformation into mucinous EOC. Among the 35 married patients with BOTs, 20 successfully conceived, resulting in 23 live births and 3 spontaneous abortions. A higher pregnancy rate was observed in those without prior childbirth (82.4%) than in those who had prior childbirth (33.3%). In the EOC group, the median age was 34 (range, 22–42) years. Recurrence occurred in one patient. Menstrual regularity was maintained in 69.7% of the patients. Among the 14 married patients in this group, 12 achieved a total of 15 pregnancies (including 2 twin pregnancies), 16 live births, and 1 spontaneous abortion. The results of the study confirmed that FSS is a favorable surgical option for young women with early-stage BOTs or EOC who wish to preserve their fertility. However, additional investigations are needed to validate these findings.
A Self-Regulation Intervention Conducted by Teachers in a Disadvantaged School Neighborhood: Implementers’ and Observers’ Perceptions of Its Impact on Elementary Students
Authors: Cunha Jennifer , Guimarães Ana , Martins Juliana , Rosário Pedro
Published: November 2023

Self-regulated learning contributes to students’ academic success and their future as citizens. However, self-regulation skills are seldom or poorly promoted during instruction. To address this gap, the current article reports data on the implementation of an evidence-based intervention (i.e., a narrative-based intervention called “Yellow Trials and Tribulations”) in a disadvantaged school neighborhood. Prior studies showed positive results of this intervention in promoting elementary students’ self-regulation skills. Still, the data are mainly quantitative and limited to students’ reports or classroom observations made by researchers. Hence, the current study aimed to explore the implementers’ and observers’ perceptions of the impact of the intervention. Four elementary teachers implemented the intervention in their fourth-grade classes (N = 96 students). For each session, the implementers and observers completed a session sheet collaboratively, as well as individual final reports at the end of the intervention. The records were analyzed through a direct content analysis. The data indicated a perceived increase in knowledge and the use of self-regulation skills in the educational context and in daily life routines. Moreover, the data allowed for the identification of other positive gains of the intervention. The findings extended prior research while helping researchers to further understand the impact of the narrative-based intervention. The implications for research and educational practice are provided.
Association between Serum Lactate and Morbidity and Mortality in Neonates: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Matsushita Felipe Yu , Krebs Vera Lucia Jornada , De Carvalho Werther Brunow
Published: November 2023

Objective: Lactate is a marker of hypoperfusion in critically ill patients. Whether lactate is useful for identifying and stratifying neonates with a higher risk of adverse outcomes remains unknown. This study aimed to investigate the association between lactate and morbidity and mortality in neonates. Methods: A meta-analysis was performed to determine the association between blood lactate levels and outcomes in neonates. Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched from inception to 1 May 2021. A total of 49 observational studies and 14 data accuracy test studies were included. The risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for observational studies and the QUADAS-2 tool for data accuracy test studies. The primary outcome was mortality, while the secondary outcomes included acute kidney injury, necessity for renal replacement therapy, neurological outcomes, respiratory morbidities, hemodynamic instability, and retinopathy of prematurity. Results: Of the 3184 articles screened, 63 studies fulfilled all eligibility criteria, comprising 46,069 neonates. Higher lactate levels are associated with mortality (standard mean difference, −1.09 [95% CI, −1.46 to −0.73]). Using the estimated sensitivity (0.769) and specificity (0.791) and assuming a prevalence of 15% for adverse outcomes (median of prevalence among studies) in a hypothetical cohort of 10,000 neonates, assessing the lactate level alone would miss 346 (3.46%) cases (false negative) and wrongly diagnose 1776 (17.76%) cases (false positive). Conclusions: Higher lactate levels are associated with a greater risk of mortality and morbidities in neonates. However, our results do not support the use of lactate as a screening test to identify adverse outcomes in newborns. Research efforts should focus on analyzing serial lactate measurements, rather than a single measurement.
Optical Characteristics of Silver Thin Films from Island to Percolation in the Ultra-Wide Infrared Spectral Range
Authors: Liu Pian , Shi Zhe , Teng Daoxiang , Liu Fuyan , Cao Yue , Lin Yanping , Yang Zhiyong , Yang Anping , Zheng Yuxiang , Chen Liangyao
Published: November 2023

Silver (Ag) thin films have garnered significant attention due to their unique optical properties. This paper systematically investigates the optical characteristics of Ag films prepared using the electron beam evaporation method. The investigation was conducted using spectroscopic ellipsometry and covers a broad wavelength range of 1679 nm to 36 µm (0.738–0.034 eV), spanning from near-infrared to far-infrared regions. Optical and dispersion models were developed to analyze the impacts of Ag nanostructures on the complex refractive indices, dielectric functions, and reflectance. The results indicate that Ag particles and coalescence films exhibit non-metallic and low absorption properties, while Ag percolation and continuous films present a typical Drude model. The reflectance of Ag films increases as the film coverage ratio increases, and it can reach close to 100% in continuous film. Additionally, a non-destructive, non-contact, and vacuum-free means of confirming the percolation threshold of Ag films was proposed based on the slope of the imaginary part curve. This work is useful to guide simulations and provide a basis for the applications of Ag films in different fields.
Long-Term Efficacy and Safety of Dupilumab in Patients with Atopic Dermatitis: A Single-Centre Retrospective Study
Authors: Ortoncelli Michela , Macagno Nicole , Mastorino Luca , Gelato Federica , Richiardi Irene , Cavaliere Giovanni , Quaglino Pietro , Ribero Simone
Published: November 2023

Introduction: There are few long-term effectiveness and safety data for dupilumab in the treatment of atopic dermatitis (AD). The aim of this study was to evaluate efficacy and safety of dupilumab for up to three years after treatment initiation. Materials and Methods: We collected data from patients ≥ 12 years with severe AD who started dupilumab at the Dermatology Clinic of the Turin University Hospital between December 2018 and October 2022. Clinic and patient reported outcomes were evaluated from baseline, up to 3 years (T9), every 4 months. Results: A total of 418 patients were observed. A progressive decrease in the meanEASI was observed: from 23.64 at baseline to 2.31 at T9. Similar trends were observed in patients’ reported outcomes. The achievement of EASI75 and EASI90 was observed in 75.58% of patients and 53.49%, respectively, at T1 (4 months), and in 92.55% and 80.85% at T9; DLQI 0/1 was achieved at T9 in 61.7%. Mean NRSpp ≤ 4 was achieved at T9 in 91.5% (86 out of 94 patients). The most common adverse event was conjunctivitis occurring in 13% of patients on average at each timepoint analyzed. Conclusions: Dupilumab proved to be effective and safe for the treatment of AD in clinical practice, up to 3 years.
Clinical Efficacy and Openness to New Challenges of Low Dose Rate Brachytherapy for Prostate Cancer
Authors: Kato Manabu , Higashi Shinichiro , Sugino Yusuke , Kajiwara Shinya , Tanaka Shiori , Kitano Goshi , Yamashita Yasuhumi , Ogura Yuji , Tachibana Hiroyuki , Kojima Takahiro , Inoue Takahiro
Published: November 2023

Over a century ago, low-dose-rate (LDR) brachytherapy was introduced to treat prostate cancer (PCa). Since then, it has been widely applied worldwide, including in East Asia. LDR brachytherapy has been performed in 88 institutes in Japan. Beneficial clinical outcomes of LDR brachytherapy for intermediate-to-high-risk PCa have been demonstrated in large clinical trials. These clinical outcomes were achieved through advances in methods, such as urological precise needle puncture and seed placement, and the quantitative decision making regarding radiological parameters by radiation oncologists. The combined use of LDR brachytherapy with other therapeutic modalities, such as external beam radiation and androgen deprivation therapy, for the clinical risk classification of PCa has led to better anticancer treatment efficacy. In this study, we summarized basic LDR brachytherapy findings that should remain unchanged and be passed down in urology departments. We also discussed the applications of LDR brachytherapy for PCa in various clinical settings, including focal and salvage therapies. In addition, we highlighted technologies associated with brachytherapy that are under development.
Exploring Diabetic Retinopathy Patterns in Saudi Arabia: Gender and Diabetes Type Comparison
Authors: Hussain Samraa , AlJohani Naji
Published: November 2023

Aims: To determine the prevalence and predictors of diabetic retinopathy (DR) in Saudi males and females with diabetes. Methods: This cross-sectional study enrolled 507 patients with diabetes between May and August 2018. The data extracted from patients’ records included demographic and clinical information and laboratory investigations. The retinopathy data were based on fundus photography graded into five categories: no DR, NPDR, MNPDR, SNPDR, and PDR. Results: The patients’ mean age was 47.3 years, the majority (59.3%) being female and T2DM being the most common type (52.4%). The prevalence of no DR was 51.4%; NPDR, 4.4%; MNPDR, 7.7%; SNPDR, 3.7%; and PDR, 5.1%. The duration of DM, as well as the severity of hypertension and neuropathy values rose significantly as DR progressed, underlining the pivotal role of hyperglycemia as the primary driver of diabetic complications. The odds ratio for the presence of hypertension was 1.8 (95% CI 0.9–3.5); hypertension showed the highest risk of DR. Stratification according to gender showed a significantly higher DR risk in females than males. Interestingly, nephropathy played a significant role in the DR risk in T1DM. Conclusions: Among T1DM and T2DM patients, the severity of DR is associated with risk factors including the DM duration, hyperglycemia, hypertension, and neuropathy. The impact of these factors varies with gender and diabetes type. Therefore, the severity of DR could define patients at a high risk of macro/microvascular complications and enable earlier interventions to reduce morbidity and mortality among T1DM and T2DM patients.
Educating Medical Students on How to Prescribe Anti-Hyperglycaemic Drugs: A Practical Guide
Authors: Donker Erik M. , Belančić Andrej , Piët Joost D. , Vitezić Dinko , Tichelaar Jelle ,   on behalf of the Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics Teach the Teacher (CP4T) Program and the Early Career Pharmacologists of the European Association for Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics (EACPT)
Published: November 2023

In the light of the rapidly increasing global incidence of, and therapeutic arsenal for, diabetes type 2, this brief report underscores the need for advancements in clinical pharmacology and therapeutics (CPT) education with regard to diabetes type 2. We advocate for the comprehensive training of medical students and junior doctors in line with current guidelines, and emphasize the importance of teaching how to draw up individualized treatment plans based on patients’ specific risk factors and conditions, such as cardiovascular risks, weight, and risk of hypoglycaemia. Within the curriculum, traditional teaching approaches should be replaced by innovative methods such as problem-based learning, which has been shown to be more effective in developing prescribing knowledge and skills. The inclusion of real-world experience and interprofessional learning via so-called student-run clinics is also recommended. Subsequently, innovative assessment methods like the European Prescribing Exam and objective structured clinical examinations (OSCE) are highlighted as essential for evaluating knowledge and practical skills. By adopting these educational advances, medical education can better equip future practitioners to adequately manage the complex pharmacological treatment of diabetes.
Role of Metabolomics in Pathogenesis and Prompt Diagnosis of Gastric Cancer Metastasis—A Systematic Review
Authors: Ursu Ștefan , Ciocan Andra , Ursu Cristina-Paula , Gherman Claudia Diana , Ciocan Răzvan Alexandru , Pop Rodica Sorina , Spârchez Zeno , Zaharie Florin , Al Hajjar Nadim
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Gastric cancer is the fourth most frequently diagnosed form of cancer and the third leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. The aim of this review is to identify individual metabolic biomarkers and their association with accurate diagnostic values, which can predict gastric cancer metastasis. Materials and Methods: After searching the keywords, 83 articles were found over a period of 13 years. One was eliminated because it was not written in English, and two were published outside the selected period. Seven scientific papers were qualified for this investigation after eliminating duplicates, non-related articles, systematic reviews, and restricted access studies. Results: New metabolic biomarkers with predictive value for gastric cancer metastasis and for elucidating metabolic pathways of the metastatic process have been found. The pathogenic processes can be outlined as follows: pro-oxidant capacity, T-cell inactivation, cell cycle arrest, energy production and mitochondrial enzyme impairment, cell viability and pro-apoptotic effect, enhanced degradation of collagen extracellular matrix, migration, invasion, structural protein synthesis, and tumoral angiogenesis. Conclusion: Metabolic biomarkers have been recognized as independent risk factors in the molecular process of gastric cancer metastasis, with good diagnostic and prognostic value.
Methods for Estimating the Impact of Disability Costs for Designing Inclusive Policies
Authors: Mont Daniel , Banks Lena Morgon , Carraro Ludovico , Cote Alex , Hanass-Hancock Jill , Mitra Sophie , Morris Zachary , Nasiir Mercoledi , Pinilla-Roncancio Monica
Published: November 2023

The impact of disability on people’s lives is often underestimated because the extra costs of living with a disability are not accounted for. This paper analyzes several different methodologies for estimating those costs and explores their usefulness in designing inclusive social policies. For example, one approach is to measure what is currently being spent, while another is to estimate what would need to be spent for equal participation. These can be measured using statistical techniques or through a more qualitative methodology. Each of these methods has its advantages and disadvantages. The paper concludes with recommendations for which methodology fits which purpose, and how they can be used together to obtain a full accounting of the extra costs incurred by people with disabilities.
Chromoblastomycosis: New Perspective on Adjuvant Treatment with Acitretin
Authors: Belda Walter , Passero Luiz Felipe Domingues , de Carvalho Caroline Heleno Chagas , Mojica Paula Celeste Rubiano , Vale Pablo Andrade
Published: November 2023

Chromoblastomycosis (CBM) is a neglected human disease, caused by different species of pigmented dematiaceous fungi that cause granulomatous and suppurative dermatosis. This infection is difficult to treat and there are limited therapeutic options, including terbinafine, itraconazole, and tioconazole. Classic treatment is administered for a long period of time, but some patients do not respond properly, and therefore, such therapeutic approaches possess low cure rates. Therefore, it is vital to develop new strategies for the treatment of CBM. In this regard, it has been observed that the association of immunomodulatory molecules such as glucan with therapy carried out with antifungal drugs improves cutaneous lesions in comparison to treatment with antifungal drugs alone, suggesting that drug association may be an interesting and significant approach to incorporate into CBM therapy. Thus, the aim of this work was to associate classical antifungal therapy with the adjuvants imiquimod and acitretin. In the present case, we reported a patient with extensive CBM caused by Fonsaecae pedrosoi, that affected an extensive area of the right leg, that was left without treatment for 11 years. He was treated with a classical combination of itraconazole and terbinafine via the oral route plus topical imiquimod and oral acitretin, as an adjuvant therapy. After five months of treatment, a significant regression of verrucous plaques was observed, suggesting that the use of these adjuvants combined with the classical antifungal drugs, intraconazole plus terbinafine, can reduce treatment time and rapidly improve the patient’s quality of life. This result confirms that the use of coadjuvant drugs may be effective in the treatment of this infectious disease.
Robust Path-Following Control for AUV under Multiple Uncertainties and Input Saturation
Authors: Miao Jianming , Sun Xingyu , Chen Qichao , Zhang Haosu , Liu Wenchao , Wang Yanyun
Published: November 2023

In this paper, a robust path-following control strategy is proposed to deal with the path-following problem of the underactuated autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) with multiple uncertainties and input saturation, and the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy is verified by semi-physical simulation experiments. Firstly, the control laws are constructed based on the traditional backstepping method; the multiple uncertainties are treated as lumped uncertainties, which can be estimated and eliminated by the employed extended state observers (ESOs). In addition, the influence of input saturation can be compensated by the designed auxiliary dynamic compensators. Secondly, to simplify controller design and address the “complexity explosion”, two command filters are used to obtain the estimated value of the unknown sideslip angular velocity and the desired yaw angular acceleration, respectively. Finally, the superiority and robustness of the proposed control strategy are verified through computer simulation. A semi-physical simulation experiment platform is built based on the NI Compact cRIO-9068 and PLC S7-1200 to further demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy.
On the History of Ecosystem Dynamical Modeling: The Rise and Promises of Qualitative Models
Authors: Cosme Maximilien , Thomas Colin , Gaucherel Cédric
Published: November 2023

Ecosystem modeling is a complex and multidisciplinary modeling problem which emerged in the 1950s. It takes advantage of the computational turn in sciences to better understand anthropogenic impacts and improve ecosystem management. For that purpose, ecosystem simulation models based on difference or differential equations were built. These models were relevant for studying dynamical phenomena and still are. However, they face important limitations in data-poor situations. As a response, several formal and non-formal qualitative dynamical modeling approaches were independently developed to overcome some limitations of the existing methods. Qualitative approaches allow studying qualitative dynamics as relevant abstractions of those provided by quantitative models (e.g., response to press perturbations). Each modeling framework can be viewed as a different assemblage of properties (e.g., determinism, stochasticity or synchronous update of variable values) designed to satisfy some scientific objectives. Based on four stated objectives commonly found in complex environmental sciences ((1) grasping qualitative dynamics, (2) making as few assumptions as possible about parameter values, (3) being explanatory and (4) being predictive), our objectives were guided by the wish to model complex and multidisciplinary issues commonly found in ecosystem modeling. We then discussed the relevance of existing modeling approaches and proposed the ecological discrete-event networks (EDEN) modeling framework for this purpose. The EDEN models propose a qualitative, discrete-event, partially synchronous and possibilistic view of ecosystem dynamics. We discussed each of these properties through ecological examples and existing analysis techniques for such models and showed how relevant they are for environmental science studies.
Based on the Feedforward Inputs Obtained by the Intelligent Algorithm the Moving Mirror Control System of the Fourier Transform Spectrometer
Authors: Huang Ying , Duan Juan , Guo Qian , Wang Zhanhu , Hua Jianwen
Published: November 2023

A moving mirror control system of the Fourier transform spectrometer (FTS) based on the feedforward inputs obtained by the intelligent algorithm is proposed in this paper. Feedforward control is an important part of the moving mirror speed control system of the FTS. And it is always difficult to quantitatively calculate the feedforward inputs through a precise mathematical model of the controlled object. Therefore, based on the expected motion law, an intelligent adaptive algorithm for obtaining feedforward inputs of the moving mirror system was designed. The algorithm decomposed the motion stroke into several position points, iteratively obtained the driving quantity of the moving mirror that met the expected instantaneous speed of each position point, and finally obtained the feedforward inputs of the whole motion stroke. The feedforward inputs obtained by the intelligent algorithm combined with the speed loop PID control constitute the complete moving mirror speed control system. Then, we applied the control system to the moving mirror of the FTS and acquired the velocity of the moving mirror. The experimental results show that the control system is feasible, the error of the peak-to-peak velocity is 0.047, and the error of the root mean square (RMS) velocity is 0.003. Compared with the single-speed-loop control system without feedforward inputs, the error of the peak-to-peak velocity is reduced by 43.3%, and the error of the RMS velocity is reduced by 67.7%, realizing a more accurate control of the moving mirror. Therefore, the control system based on the feedforward inputs obtained by the intelligent algorithm is a feasible and effective moving mirror speed control scheme of the FTS.
Application of an Output Filtering Method for an Unstable Wheel-Driven Pendulum System Parameter Identification
Authors: Peng Chao-Chung , Cheng Nai-Jen , Tsai Min-Che
Published: November 2023

This research aims to apply an output filtering method to conduct the system parameter identification of an unstable wheel-driven pendulum system. First, the nonlinear dynamic model of the system is established by utilizing the Lagrangian dynamic theorem. Next, the Least-Square (LS) is introduced for system parameter identification formulation. Nevertheless, considering the real scenario, the wheel displacement is acquired from encoders subject to quantization errors. The pitch angle of the pendulum cart is also accompanied by Gaussian noise. Therefore, using numerical differentiation for angular acceleration in the LS estimations directly would induce incorrect state information seriously. To address this practical issue, an output filtering method is considered. The developed parameter identification algorithm could attenuate the influence of the quantization effect as well as noisy data and thus obtain much more accurate parameter identification results. Comparative simulation reveals that the output filtering method has a superior parameter estimation performance than the direct numerical difference method.
Radiators Adjustment in Multi-Family Residential Buildings—An Analysis Based on Data from Heat Meters
Authors: Bandurski Karol , Górka Andrzej , Koczyk Halina
Published: November 2023

Energy is consumed in buildings through the use of various types of energy systems, which are controlled by the occupants via provided interfaces. The quality of this control should be verified to improve the efficiency of the systems and for the comfort of the occupants. In the case of residential buildings, due to privacy reasons, it is problematic to directly monitor human–building interactions using sensors installed in dwellings. However, data from increasingly common smart meters are easily available. In this paper, the potential use of data from heat meters is explored for the analysis of occupant interactions with space-heating (SH) systems. A pilot study is conducted based on a one-year set of daily data from 101 dwellings. First, the identification of an indoor temperature and a strategy for thermostatic radiator valve (TRV) adjustments for all the investigated dwellings is presented. Second, the performed analysis suggests that 96% of the households did not use the automatic adjustment function of the TRVs since adjustments using the on–off mode were the most common, which could be empirical evidence for Kempton’s theory on mental models of home heating controls. The reasons for this could be the weakness of the TRV as an SH interface and the technical specificity of the analyzed SH (its supply temperature). The preliminary investigation confirms the potential of the proposed methodology, but further research is needed.
Health-Promoting Nature-Based Paradigms in Urban Planning
Authors: Grahn Patrik , Stoltz Jonathan , Skärbäck Erik , Bengtsson Anna
Published: November 2023

Since the 19th century, urban planning has largely been guided by ambitions to improve the population’s wellbeing and living conditions. Parks and green areas have played a significant role in this work. However, the confidence in the function of green areas, and thus the motives for creating urban parks and green open spaces, have shifted over the years, which has affected both the planning and design of green areas. This entry describes three overarching paradigm shifts in urban planning, from the end of the 18th century to today, and the focus is on the major paradigm shift that is underway: how green areas can mitigate climate effects, increase biodiversity and at the same time support people’s health and living conditions in a smart city.
A Comparison of Water Uptake by Transpiration from Different Soil Depths among Three Land Cover Types in the Arid Northwest of China
Authors: Qin Yushi , Zhang Tianwen , Zhang Rongfei , Zhao Ziyan , Qiao Gaixia , Chen Wei , He Lijun
Published: November 2023

In recent decades, the frequency, intensity, and extent of extreme drought events have posed serious threats to ecosystems in vulnerable regions. With low annual precipitation, the arid area in northwest China is a typical ecologically fragile area, and extreme drought events will aggravate desertification in this area. In order to control desertification, various experimental plantations have been established in Northwest China. However, there is no consensus on which plantations are more suitable to become widespread. To explore this, we conducted a comparative study on different plantations from the perspective of long-term deep (100 cm depth) soil moisture balance. In our study, six typical ecosystems were selected for comparison of the variation of soil moisture and control factors. The results showed three main findings. First, the soil moisture of all six ecosystems showed a similar hierarchy of increasing moisture with the increasing depth of the soil layer. However, the deep layer soil moisture (mean = 0.33 ± 0.22 cm3·cm−3) of the artificial poplar (Populus alba) forest exhibited a downward trend over time after the fifth year, but did not at the shallow layer for this ecosystem. Second, the trends of the maximum canopy coverage between the different ecosystems from 2010 to 2019 showed significant differences from one another, with the maximum value of the leaf area index for the poplar forest being the highest (Maximum = 7.13). Third, a negative correlation (R2 = 0.52) was found between deep soil moisture and transpiration for the poplar forest, and a positive correlation (R2 ≥ 0.23) between these two metrics was found for the other five ecosystems. The results revealed that transpiration processes had a different consumption of deep soil moisture due to the differences in the root and canopy density of several plantations. Among these ecosystems, the transpiration of the artificial poplar forest is noticeably large, resulting in a unilateral decline in soil moisture.
Total Lipid Extracts of Honeybee Drone Larvae Are Modulated by Extraction Temperature and Display Consistent Anti-Inflammatory Potential
Authors: Luo Yiming , Guo Yuyang , Zhao Wen , Khalifa Shaden A. M. , El-Seedi Hesham R. , Su Xiaoling , Wu Liming
Published: November 2023

Honeybee drone larvae are male bees that develop from unfertilized eggs and play a role in colony reproduction. The nutritional value of honeybee drone larvae is due to their high protein, lipid, and other nutrient contents, making them a profitable food source for humans in some cultures. Drone larvae lipids (DLLs) contribute to drone development; however, few studies have explored their substantial compositions and bioactive functions. In this study, we carried out DLL lipidomics analysis using UPLC-Q-Exactive-Orbitrap–MS prior to in vitro anti-inflammatory activity analysis. The results highlighted the importance of the extraction temperature on the DLL composition. A total of 21 lipids were found in the DLL extract, mostly categorized into five groups: nine phospholipids, three sphingolipids, two neutral lipids, one plant glycoglycerolipid, four lipid acyl, and others. Drying extraction at −20 °C produced more sphingolipids, phospholipids, and unsaturated fatty acids. Of 37 fatty acids, 18 were displayed at −20 °C degrees, as shown by GC–MS quantitative analysis. Myristic (246.99 ± 13.19 μg/g), palmitic (1707.87 ± 60.53 μg/g), stearic (852.32 ± 24.17 μg/g), and oleic (2463.03 ± 149.61 μg/g) acids were the predominant fatty acids. Furthermore, we examined the significant in vitro anti-inflammatory effects of DLL (−20 °C) using lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-challenged RAW264.7 cells. Nitric oxide (NO) and reactive oxygen (ROS) production and mRNA expression of IL-6, IL-10, COX-2, and iNOS were significantly decreased, demonstrating the anti-inflammatory function of DLL. Overall, this study provided insight into the lipid composition of DLL, revealed the influence of temperature, and explored the functionality of DLL (−20 °C), allowing for further application of DLLs as functional foods.
Influence of Hazelnut and Walnut Oil Cakes Powder on Thermal and Rheological Properties of Wheat Flour
Authors: Pycia Karolina , Juszczak Lesław
Published: November 2023

The aim of the study was to assess the influence of the addition of powdery hazelnut oil cakes (HOC) or walnut oil cakes (WOC) to wheat flour (WF) on its selected thermal and rheological properties. In the research material, part of the wheat flour (5%, 10%, 15%) was substituted with powdery oil cakes based on hazelnuts and walnuts. The control sample was wheat flour (100% WF). In the tested systems with the addition of hazelnut oil cakes (WFHOC) and walnuts (WFWOC), the characteristics of the gelatinization and retrogradation processes were determined using the DSC method, the gelatinization characteristics of 10% pastes using the RVA method, flow curves and viscosity curves, as well as mechanical spectra. Based on the results obtained, it was found that the type of oil cakes and the level of their addition significantly influenced the thermal and rheological properties of the tested systems. Partial replacement of wheat flour with HOC or WOC significantly influenced most DSC parameters. The highest values of gelatinization enthalpy ∆HG and retrogradation ∆HR were characteristic of the WFWOC5% sample (5.9 J/g) and the control sample (1.3 J/g), respectively. All tested systems showed the properties of shear-thinning non-Newtonian fluids, and the partial replacement of wheat flour with HOC or WOC resulted in a significant reduction in the maximum viscosity of pastes, increasing with the increase in the proportion of oil cakes. WFHOC-based pastes were characterized by higher values of the G′ and G″ modulus, while their values and the values of the K′ and K″ parameters decreased as the share of oil cakes increased. Gels based on all tested systems showed the nature of weak gels (tan δ = G″/G′ > 0.1). Replacing part of the wheat flour with nut oil cakes modified the thermal and rheological properties of pastes and gels, and the observed changes were influenced by both the origin and the level of addition of powdered oil cakes. It was found that WFHOC/WFWOC15% systems had reduced viscosity and weakened viscoelastic properties compared to systems with a lower OC content, which is not a favorable feature from the technological point of view. However, these systems were the most stable, which is an advantageous feature. However, for baking purposes, research should be carried out on the rheological properties of dough made from these mixtures.
“Alma, si ciega vas tras tus antojos”: Going Blindly through Seventeenth-Century Literature
Authors: López Lorenzo Cipriano
Published: November 2023

Faced with the exaltation of sight as a perfect divine creation, so evident in the Uso de los antojos (1623) by Daza de Valdés, and faced with the satirical–burlesque tone of popular literature, dogmatic theology considered it inappropriate to praise a sense that deviated human understanding and made it difficult to comprehend the sacramental mysteries in depth. Through different fragments of literature produced in seventeenth-century Seville, we will see how the Church constructed, parallel to the scientific and popular discourses, a catechetical rhetoric that sought to deny physical sight and any device intended to enhance or restore it. The idea was to promote a knowledge of God guided by faith, allegorized as a blindfolded woman. Thus, we will see how the glasses and the blindfold capitalized two discourses that could feed back on each other and at the same time evidence the porosity of baroque literature towards the new advances in physics.