bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Influence of Exogenous Nitrogen Input on the Characteristics of Phytolith-Occluded Carbon in the Kandelia obovata Soil System
Authors: You Huiming , Zheng Lidi , You Weibin , Tan Fanglin , Wang Fangyi , Cao Yan , Le Tongchao , Lin Jie , Lv Jiangrong
Published: November 2023

Phytolith-occluded Ccarbon (PhytOC) is an important carbon sink in wetland ecosystems and a mechanism for long-term carbon sequestration. In recent years, nitrogen pollution has become increasingly severe and poses a threat to the healthy development of coastal ecological environments and socio-economic development; therefore, studying the impact of nitrogen deposition on the sequestration potential of PhytOC in the soil of coastal wetlands is highly significant. In the present study, two indoor tidal simulation experiments were set up with and without the planting of vegetation. The sequestration capacity and factors that influence soil PhytOC in the Kandelia obovata soil system were compared and analyzed under five nitrogen concentrations. The analysis shows that with the introduction of Kandelia obovata, the occluded carbon content of the soil phytoliths was significantly increased by 31.45% compared with the non-plant group, and the PhytOC content of the soil increased by 7.94%. The exogenous nitrogen input reduced the PhytOC content of the soil, with a rate of decline exceeding 26%. The PhytOC of the soil phytoliths and the PhytOC content of the soil in the planting group increased with increasing nitrogen concentration, while that of the non-plant group decreased as the concentration of nitrogen increased. The non-plant group was more affected by the exogenous nitrogen concentration than the planting group, and the soil microbial biomass carbon and microbial biomass nitrogen were the main factors that influenced changes in the PhytOC. In conclusion, nitrogen input has a significant inhibitory effect on soil PhytOC sequestration potential in coastal wetlands. Planting Kandelia obovata helps to improve the stability of carbon in wetland soil.
Bioaccumulation of Potentially Toxic Elements in Tilia tomentosa Moench Trees from Urban Parks and Potential Health Risks from Using Leaves and Flowers for Medicinal Purposes
Authors: Mitrović Miroslava , Kostić Olga , Miletić Zorana , Marković Milica , Radulović Natalija , Sekulić Dimitrije , Jarić Snežana , Pavlović Pavle
Published: November 2023

Potentially toxic element (PTE) contamination in medicinal plants, particularly those growing in urban environments, can cause human health issues. Therefore, this study evaluated trace element accumulation and translocation patterns (As, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, Sr, and Zn) in the aboveground tissue of common Tilia tomentosa Moench, often used as a medicinal plant, sampled in Belgrade’s urban parks (Zemunski Park, Park Blok 63, and Park Topčider). Our results indicated that this species exhibits the ability to accumulate and translocate PTEs, particularly Cu, in its aboveground parts. It was found that the levels of Cu and Sr in flowers were within the toxic range for plants, indicating a potential risk in using T. tomentosa flowers from Park Topčider for medicinal purposes. The maximum Estimated Daily Intake of Ni from the consumption of leaves and flowers of plants growing in two parks (Zemunski Park and Park Topčider) exceeded the corresponding Provisional Tolerable Daily Intake. Additionally, the Carcinogenic Risk calculated for Cr present in flowers was above the USEPA limit (3.021 × 10−3), indicating possible adverse effects on human health and a carcinogenic risk from ingesting tea prepared from T. tomentosa flowers from Park Topčider. Our research underlines how crucial it is to cautiously use medicinal tree species growing in urban parks in residential areas.
Experimental Study on Pedestrian Behaviors during Fire Emergency Conditions with Minecraft: Case Studies in a Classroom
Authors: Zhang Zhichao , Zhang Wenke , Ma Yueyao , Lee Eric Wai Ming , Shi Meng
Published: November 2023

The comprehension of the fire evacuation process is crucial for developing effective evacuation management strategies to enhance pedestrian safety. In this study, we construct a classroom with internal obstacles forming intersecting pathways in Minecraft, and conduct a series of virtual evacuation experiments involving multiple pedestrians to investigate the pedestrian behaviors. Case studies in a single-exit classroom demonstrated that normal obstacles and fire in the main evacuation path prompt pedestrians to detour, and pedestrians exhibit fire-avoidance behavior in advance during fire emergency. In the two-exit classroom experiments, normal obstacles have a limited effect on the exit choices of pedestrians, as they primarily choose the nearest exit. Pedestrians positioned in the center of classroom are influenced by their initial orientations, and some pedestrians opt for exits in their initial facing directions. The presence of fire has a greater influence on pedestrians’ exit choices, with most opting for exits away from the fire. Furthermore, during fire emergencies, some pedestrians engage in risk-taking behavior by choosing higher-risk paths in pursuit of a faster evacuation. These adventurous pedestrians proactively plan routes that maximize their distance from the fire and exhibit orderly queuing behavior. These findings are helpful to reveal pedestrian behaviors during fire emergencies.
How Does Fire Suppression Alter the Wildfire Regime? A Systematic Review
Authors: Hai Jiaying , Zhang Ling , Gao Cong , Wang Han , Wu Jiansheng
Published: November 2023

Fire suppression has become a fundamental approach for shaping contemporary wildfire regimes. However, a growing body of research suggests that aggressive fire suppression can increase high-intensity wildfires, creating the wildfire paradox. Whether the strategy always triggers the paradox remains a topic of ongoing debate. The role of fire suppression in altering wildfire regimes in diverse socio-ecological systems and associated research designs demands a deeper understanding. To reconcile these controversies and synthesize the existing knowledge, a systematic review has been conducted to screen 974 studies on the relationship between fire suppression and wildfire regimes. The rigorous screening process led to the selection of 37 studies that met our stringent criteria for inclusion. The selected literature was quantitatively analyzed in terms of study areas, study design and methods, and the impact of fire suppression on wildfire regimes. Several critical findings were revealed: 1. Numerous studies have focused on northern mid- and high-latitude biomes, neglecting tropical savannas where wildfires are frequent and intense. Further exploration in these regions is imperative. 2. Existing studies have predominantly employed methods such as difference analysis, regression analysis, and scenario simulations. Appropriate methods could be selected based on the study area, data availability, and understanding of fire regimes. 3. Despite the consensus that fire suppression reduces the total burned area, the emergence of the wildfire paradox remains controversial, with approximately equal amounts of the literature supporting and contradicting the wildfire paradox. A noteworthy pattern was observed: the wildfire paradox is more likely to occur in fuel-limited systems, specific vegetation types, and smaller scale and longer term studies. This systematic review highlights that the occurrence of the wildfire paradox is intricately tied to ecosystem feedback mechanisms for suppression and the research scale adopted. It is necessary to incorporate a comprehensive and multi-scale assessment of how local wildlands respond to suppression into wildfire management policy-making processes. This assessment will ensure a more informed and effective wildfire management strategy adapted to local conditions.
Plasma Effects on Properties and Structure of Corn Starch: Characterization and Analysis
Authors: Chen Cunshe , Tong Fang , Sun Ruohao , Yang Jufang , Pang Zhihua , Liu Xinqi
Published: November 2023

This research investigated the impact of air plasma and high-pressure plasma treatments on corn starch. The resulting samples were characterized by particle morphology, molecular polymerization degree, molecular functional groups, and crystallinity. SEM analysis revealed that plasma treatment altered the surface morphology of corn starch, with variations observed depending on the duration of treatment. UV/Vis spectroscopy results indicated that longer plasma exposure times increased maximum absorbance values with less complete peak shapes. FTIR results demonstrated that plasma treatment disrupted the crystalline structure of starch, resulting in decreased molecular polymerization. Lastly, XRD results showed a proportional relationship between plasma treatment duration and the intensity of the diffuse peak, indicating that prolonged plasma exposure increased the amorphous nature of starch.
Glimpsing the Future of Animal Welfare through a Bottle of Milk: Insights from Chinese University Students
Authors: Liang Yaoming , Chen Ruiqi , Liu Hongfu , Han Li , Yin Shu
Published: November 2023

The consumption patterns of university students hold the power to significantly influence market trends. This study illuminates the escalating emphasis on animal welfare in these students’ purchasing choices, specifically concerning milk products. Utilizing a discrete choice experiment, we identified a pronounced preference among students for milk products with animal welfare certifications. Students were segmented into three categories based on their motivations: “Quality–Oriented” (20.55%), “Emotionally Intuitive” (30.67%), and “Quality–Emotion Balanced” (48.77%). The “Emotionally Intuitive” group manifested the most robust inclination toward such certifications. Based on these findings, we recommend tailored market strategies targeting these distinct segments. Moreover, our findings emphasize the importance of intensifying animal welfare education, shaping a market aligned with animal welfare principles, and fostering a broader societal environment attuned to animal welfare.
Quasielastic Neutron Scattering Study on Thermal Gelation in Aqueous Solution of Agarose
Authors: Onoda-Yamamuro Noriko , Inamura Yasuhiro , Yamamuro Osamu
Published: November 2023

The dynamics of water and agarose molecules in an agarose aqueous solution has been studied by means of quasielastic neutron scattering (QENS). The dynamic structure factor S (Q,E) of the agarose aqueous solution was fitted well to the sum of the Lorentz and delta function. The former is attributed to the diffusive motion of water molecules and the latter to the local vibrational motion of agarose molecules. The self-diffusion coefficient D of water molecules was obtained from the Q-dependence of the width of the Lorentz function, while the mean square displacement  of agarose molecules was obtained from the Q-dependence of the intensity of the delta term. In the cooling direction, both D and  decreased with decreasing temperature and showed discontinuous changes around the thermal gelation temperature (around 314 K). In the heating direction, however, D and  did not show the obvious change below 343 K, indicating a large hysteresis effect. The present results of  and D revealed that the thermal gelation suppresses the motion of the polymer and accelerates the diffusion of water molecules. The activation energy Ea of the diffusion of water in the sol state is the same as that of bulk water, but the Ea in the gel state is clearly smaller than that of bulk water.
Ovine KRTAP36-2: A New Keratin-Associated Protein Gene Related to Variation in Wool Yield
Authors: Zhou Huitong , Li Wenhao , Bai Lingrong , Wang Jiqing , Luo Yuzhu , Li Shaobin , Hickford Jonathan G. H.
Published: November 2023

Keratin-associated proteins (KAPs) are structural components of wool fibres. High-glycine/tyrosine (HGT)-KAPs are a subset of the KAP family, and their abundance in fibres varies. In this study, we report the discovery of an ovine HGT-KAP gene to which we assigned the name KRTAP36-2. Polymerase chain reaction and single-strand conformation polymorphism (PCR-SSCP) analyses revealed four variants of this gene in a screening population of 170 sheep from a variety of breeds. The DNA sequencing of the variants revealed four single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and a dinucleotide deletion. Three of these SNPs were in the coding region, and one of these was non-synonymous and potentially led to the amino acid substitution p.Cys27Gly near the middle of the protein. The remaining SNP was located near the putative TATA box, and the di-nucleotide deletion was near the putative transcription initiation site. The effect of this variation in KRTAP36-2 was investigated in 274 Southdown × Merino lambs that were the progeny of five sires. Variation was only found to be associated with wool yield, that is, the proportion of the greasy fleece that remained as clean fleece upon scouring (expressed as a percentage). This may have some value in increasing wool production.
Genome-Wide Identification and Characterization of CLAVATA3/EMBRYO SURROUNDING REGION (CLE) Gene Family in Foxtail Millet (Setaria italica L.)
Authors: Ren Xuemei , Chen Jinjie , Chen Shuwan , Zhang Hui , Li Li
Published: November 2023

The CLAVATA3/EMBRYO-SURROUNDING REGION (CLE) genes encode signaling peptides that play important roles in various developmental and physiological processes. However, the systematic identification and characterization of CLE genes in foxtail millet (Setaria italica L.) remain limited. In this study, we identified and characterized 41 SiCLE genes in the foxtail millet genome. These genes were distributed across nine chromosomes and classified into four groups, with five pairs resulting from gene duplication events. SiCLE genes within the same phylogenetic group shared similar gene structure and motif patterns, while 34 genes were found to be single-exon genes. All SiCLE peptides harbored the conserved C-terminal CLE domain, with highly conserved positions in the CLE core sequences shared among foxtail millet, Arabidopsis, rice, and maize. The SiCLE genes contained various cis-elements, including five plant hormone-responsive elements. Notably, 34 SiCLE genes possessed more than three types of phytohormone-responsive elements on their promoters. Comparative analysis revealed higher collinearity between CLE genes in maize and foxtail millet, which may be because they are both C4 plants. Tissue-specific expression patterns were observed, with genes within the same group exhibiting similar and specific expression profiles. SiCLE32 and SiCLE41, classified in Group D, displayed relatively high expression levels in all tissues except panicles. Most SiCLE genes exhibited low expression levels in young panicles, while SiCLE6, SiCLE24, SiCLE25, and SiCLE34 showed higher expression in young panicles, with SiCLE24 down-regulated during later panicle development. Greater numbers of SiCLE genes exhibited higher expression in roots, with SiCLE7, SiCLE22, and SiCLE36 showing the highest levels and SiCLE36 significantly down-regulated after abscisic acid (ABA) treatment. Following treatments with ABA, 6-benzylaminopurine (6-BA), and gibberellic acid 3 (GA3), most SiCLE genes displayed down-regulation followed by subsequent recovery, while jasmonic acid (JA) and indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) treatments led to upregulation at 30 min in leaves. Moreover, identical hormone treatments elicited different expression patterns of the same genes in leaves and stems. This comprehensive study enhances our understanding of the SiCLE gene family and provides a foundation for further investigations into the functions and evolution of SiCLE genes in foxtail millet.
Generation of Mutants from the 57B Region of Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Steinmetz Eva Louise , Noh Sandra , Klöppel Christine , Fuhr Martin F. , Bach Nicole , Raffael Mona Evelyn , Hildebrandt Kirsten , Wittling Fabienne , Jann Doris , Walldorf Uwe
Published: November 2023

The 57B region of Drosophila melanogaster includes a cluster of the three homeobox genes orthopedia (otp), Drosophila Retinal homeobox (DRx), and homeobrain (hbn). In an attempt to isolate mutants for these genes, we performed an EMS mutagenesis and isolated lethal mutants from the 57B region, among them mutants for otp, DRx, and hbn. With the help of two newly generated deletions from the 57B region, we mapped additional mutants to specific chromosomal intervals and identified several of these mutants from the 57B region molecularly. In addition, we generated mutants for CG15651 and RIC-3 by gene targeting and mutants for the genes CG9344, CG15649, CG15650, and ND-B14.7 using the CRISPR/Cas9 system. We determined the lethality period during development for most isolated mutants. In total, we analysed alleles from nine different genes from the 57B region of Drosophila, which could now be used to further explore the functions of the corresponding genes in the future.
Effect of Supervised and Unsupervised Exercise Training in Outdoor Gym on the Lifestyle of Elderly People
Authors: Barbosa Welmo A. , Leite Carine Danielle F. C. , Reis Carlos H. O. , Machado Alexandre F. , Bullo Valentina , Gobbo Stefano , Bergamin Marco , Lima-Leopoldo Ana Paula , Vancini Rodrigo L. , Baker Julien S. , Rica Roberta L. , Bocalini Danilo S.
Published: November 2023

The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of supervised and unsupervised physical training programs using outdoor gym equipment on the lifestyles of elderly people. Methods: physically independent elderly people were randomly distributed into three groups: supervised training (n: 20; ST), unsupervised training (n: 20; UT) and control (n: 20; C). The ST and UT groups completed a 12-week program, with exercises performed three times a week. The ST group underwent weekly 30 min sessions consisting of a 5 min warm-up (walking at 60% of HRmax), followed by 20 sets of 30, “monitored by a metronome with 30” of passive recovery between sets and a five-minute cool-down. The following equipment was used: elliptical, rowing, surfing and leg press. The UT group was instructed to freely attend the gym and train spontaneously using the same equipment used by ST. Lifestyle changes were evaluated using a questionnaire containing specific domains. Results: no significant differences were identified in the domains for family, physical activity, nutrition, smoking, sleep, behavior, introspection, work and overall score; however, the values corresponding to the alcohol domain for the ST and UT groups were lower (p < 0.05) than the C group, remaining even lower after the 12 weeks of intervention. Time effect (p < 0.05) was found only in the ST group for the physical domains, sleep, behavior and overall score. Conclusion: elderly people submitted to supervised and unsupervised physical exercise programs using outdoor gym equipment present positive changes in lifestyle parameters compared to physical inactive elderly people.
Female Leadership during COVID-19: The Effectiveness of Diverse Approaches towards Mitigation Management during a Pandemic
Authors: Ozdenerol Esra , Bingham-Byrne Rebecca Michelle , Seboly Jacob
Published: November 2023

This paper tackles the question of how female leaders at national levels of government managed COVID-19 response and recovery from the first COVID-19 case in their respective countries through to 30 September 2021. The aim of this study was to determine which COVID-19 mitigations were effective in lowering the viral reproduction rate and number of new cases (per million) in each of the fourteen female presidents’ countries—Bangladesh, Barbados, Belgium, Bolivia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Iceland, Lithuania, New Zealand, Norway, Serbia, and Taiwan. We first compared these countries by finding a mean case rate (29,420 per million), mean death rate (294 per million), and mean excess mortality rate (+1640 per million). We then analyzed the following mitigation measures per country: school closing, workplace closing, canceling public events, restrictions on gatherings, closing public transport, stay-at-home requirements, restrictions on internal movement, international travel controls, income support, debt/contract relief, fiscal measures, international support, public information campaigns, testing policy, contact tracing, emergency investment in healthcare, investment in vaccines, facial coverings, vaccination policy, and protection of the elderly. We utilized the random forest approach to examine the predictive significance of these variables, providing more interpretability. Subsequently, we then applied the Wilcoxon rank-sum statistical test to see the differences with and without mitigation in effect for the variables that were found to be significant by the random forest model. We observed that different mitigation strategies varied in their effectiveness. Notably, restrictions on internal movement and the closure of public transportation proved to be highly effective in reducing the spread of COVID-19. Embracing qualities such as community-based, empathetic, and personable leadership can foster greater trust among citizens, ensuring continued adherence to governmental policies like mask mandates and stay-at-home orders, ultimately enhancing long-term crisis management.
Postpartum Lifestyle Behaviors among Women with Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy: Data from the HUNT Study
Authors: Hafskjold Ingrid , Rangul Vegar , Ringvoll Hanne , Kolberg Marit , Haug Eirin B. , Blomhoff Rune , Henriksen Hege Berg , Horn Julie
Published: November 2023

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease later in life. Clinical guidelines for postpartum follow-up after HDP often recommend lifestyle counseling to reduce this risk. However, knowledge about lifestyle behaviors and perceptions among women with a history of HDP is limited. We linked data from the fourth survey of the population-based Trøndelag Health Study (HUNT4) with data from the Medical Birth Registry of Norway. The associations between HDP and postpartum lifestyle behaviors and perceptions were examined using multivariable logistic regression. In a secondary analysis, HUNT4 participants with a recent history of pre-eclampsia were compared with women with a recent history of pre-eclampsia participating in a postpartum pilot intervention study. Lifestyle behaviors and perceptions were self-reported and included diet (intake frequency of fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, and sugar-sweetened beverages), alcohol intake, physical activity, sleep, smoking, lifestyle satisfaction, and the importance of a healthy lifestyle. Among 7551 parous HUNT4 participants, 610 had a history of HDP. We found no differences in lifestyle behaviors between women with and without a history of HDP. However, women with HDP had higher odds of being unsatisfied with their lifestyle. Women with pre-eclampsia participating in a postpartum lifestyle intervention study tended to have a healthier lifestyle at baseline than women participating in HUNT4. Future studies should explore how lifestyle intervention programs could be adapted to the needs of women who have experienced HDP or other pregnancy complications that are associated with an increased risk of CVD.
Improving Sleep Quality, Daytime Sleepiness, and Cognitive Function in Patients with Dementia by Therapeutic Exercise and NESA Neuromodulation: A Multicenter Clinical Trial
Authors: Teruel-Hernández Esther , López-Pina José Antonio , Souto-Camba Sonia , Báez-Suárez Aníbal , Medina-Ramírez Raquel , Gómez-Conesa Antonia
Published: November 2023

Dementia is a progressive decline in cognitive functions caused by an alteration in the pattern of neural network connections. There is an inability to create new neuronal connections, producing behavioral disorders. The most evident alteration in patients with neurodegenerative diseases is the alteration of sleep–wake behavior. The aim of this study was to test the effect of two non-pharmacological interventions, therapeutic exercise (TE) and non-invasive neuromodulation through the NESA device (NN) on sleep quality, daytime sleepiness, and cognitive function of 30 patients diagnosed with dementia (non-invasive neuromodulation experimental group (NNG): mean ± SD, age: 71.6 ± 7.43 years; therapeutic exercise experimental group (TEG) 75.2 ± 8.63 years; control group (CG) 80.9 ± 4.53 years). The variables were evaluated by means of the Pittsburg Index (PSQI), the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), and the Mini-Cognitive Exam Test at four different times during the study: at baseline, after 2 months (after completion of the NNG), after 5 months (after completion of the TEG), and after 7 months (after 2 months of follow-up). Participants in the NNG and TEG presented significant improvements with respect to the CG, and in addition, the NNG generated greater relevant changes in the three variables with respect to the TEG (sleep quality (p = 0.972), daytime sleepiness (p = 0.026), and cognitive function (p = 0.127)). In conclusion, with greater effects in the NNG, both treatments were effective to improve daytime sleepiness, sleep quality, and cognitive function in the dementia population.
Correlational Study of Aminopeptidase Activities between Left or Right Frontal Cortex versus the Hypothalamus, Pituitary, Adrenal Axis of Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats Treated with Hypotensive or Hypertensive Agents
Authors: Prieto Isabel , Segarra Ana Belén , Banegas Inmaculada , Martínez-Cañamero Magdalena , Durán Raquel , Vives Francisco , Domínguez-Vías Germán , Ramírez-Sánchez Manuel
Published: November 2023

It has been suggested that the neuro-visceral integration works asymmetrically and that this asymmetry is dynamic and modifiable by physio-pathological influences. Aminopeptidases of the renin–angiotensin system (angiotensinases) have been shown to be modifiable under such conditions. This article analyzes the interactions of these angiotensinases between the left or right frontal cortex (FC) and the same enzymes in the hypothalamus (HT), pituitary (PT), adrenal (AD) axis (HPA) in control spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), in SHR treated with a hypotensive agent in the form of captopril (an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor), and in SHR treated with a hypertensive agent in the form of the L-Arginine hypertensive analogue L-NG-Nitroarginine Methyl Ester (L-NAME). In the control SHR, there were significant negative correlations between the right FC with HPA and positive correlations between the left FC and HPA. In the captopril group, the predominance of negative correlations between the right FC and HPA and positive correlations between the HPA and left FC was maintained. In the L-NAME group, a radical change in all types of interactions was observed; particularly, there was an inversion in the predominance of negative correlations between the HPA and left FC. These results indicated a better balance of neuro-visceral interactions after captopril treatment and an increase in these interactions in the hypertensive animals, especially in those treated with L-NAME.
Unraveling the Potential of miRNAs from CSCs as an Emerging Clinical Tool for Breast Cancer Diagnosis and Prognosis
Authors: Nogueras Pérez Raquel , Heredia-Nicolás Noelia , de Lara-Peña Laura , López de Andrés Julia , Marchal Juan Antonio , Jiménez Gema , Griñán-Lisón Carmen
Published: November 2023

Breast cancer (BC) is the most diagnosed cancer in women and the second most common cancer globally. Significant advances in BC research have led to improved early detection and effective therapies. One of the key challenges in BC is the presence of BC stem cells (BCSCs). This small subpopulation within the tumor possesses unique characteristics, including tumor-initiating capabilities, contributes to treatment resistance, and plays a role in cancer recurrence and metastasis. In recent years, microRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as potential regulators of BCSCs, which can modulate gene expression and influence cellular processes like BCSCs’ self-renewal, differentiation, and tumor-promoting pathways. Understanding the miRNA signatures of BCSCs holds great promise for improving BC diagnosis and prognosis. By targeting BCSCs and their associated miRNAs, researchers aim to develop more effective and personalized treatment strategies that may offer better outcomes for BC patients, minimizing tumor recurrence and metastasis. In conclusion, the investigation of miRNAs as regulators of BCSCs opens new directions for advancing BC research through the use of bioinformatics and the development of innovative therapeutic approaches. This review summarizes the most recent and innovative studies and clinical trials on the role of BCSCs miRNAs as potential tools for early diagnosis, prognosis, and resistance.
Interrogating the Role of miR-125b and Its 3′isomiRs in Protection against Hypoxia
Authors: Wong Lee Lee , Fadzil Azizah Binti , Chen Qiying , Rademaker Miriam T. , Charles Christopher J. , Richards Arthur Mark , Wang Peipei
Published: November 2023

MiR-125b has therapeutic potential in the amelioration of myocardial ischemic injury. MicroRNA isomiRs, with either 5′ or 3′ addition or deletion of nucleotide(s), have been reported from next-generation sequencing data (NGS). However, due to technical challenges, validation and functional studies of isomiRs are few. In this study, we discovered using NGS, four 3′isomiRs of miR-125b, i.e., addition of A (adenosine), along with deletions of A, AG (guanosine) and AGU (uridine) from rat and sheep heart. These findings were validated using RT-qPCR. Comprehensive functional studies were carried out in the H9C2 hypoxia model. After miR-125b, isomiRs of Plus A, Trim A, AG and AGU mimic transfection, the H9C2 cells were subjected to hypoxic challenge. As assessed using cell viability, apoptosis, CCK-8 and LDH release, miR-125b and isomiRs were all protective against hypoxia. However, Plus A and Trim A were more effective than miR-125b, whilst Trim AG and Trim AGU had far weaker effects than miR-125b. Interestingly, both the gene regulation profile and apoptotic gene validation indicated a major overlap among miR-125b, Plus A and Trim A, whilst Trims AG and AGU revealed a different profile compared to miR-125b. Conclusions: miR-125b and its 3′ isomiRs are expressed stably in the heart. miR-125b and isomiRs with addition or deletion of A might function concurrently and concordantly under specific physiological and pathophysiological conditions. In-depth understanding of isomiRs’ metabolism and function will contribute to better miRNA therapeutic drug design.
Whole-Genome Sequencing-Based Profiling of Antimicrobial Resistance Genes and Core-Genome Multilocus Sequence Typing of Campylobacter jejuni from Different Sources in Lithuania
Authors: Aksomaitiene Jurgita , Novoslavskij Aleksandr , Malakauskas Mindaugas
Published: November 2023

Campylobacter jejuni is known as one of the main causative agents of gastroenteritis in humans worldwide, and the rise of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Campylobacter is a growing public health challenge of special concern. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) was used to characterize genetic determinants of AMR in 53 C. jejuni isolates from dairy cattle, broiler products, wild birds, and humans in Lithuania. The WGS-based study revealed 26 C. jejuni AMR markers that conferred resistance to various antimicrobials. Genetic markers associated with resistance to beta-lactamases, tetracycline, and aminoglycosides were found in 79.3%, 28.3%, and 9.4% of C. jejuni isolates, respectively. Additionally, genetic markers associated with multidrug resistance (MDR) were found in 90.6% of C. jejuni isolates. The WGS data analysis revealed that a common mutation in the quinolone resistance-determining region (QRDR) was R285K (854G > A) at 86.8%, followed by A312T (934G > A) at 83% and T86I (257C > T) at 71.7%. The phenotypic resistance analysis performed with the agar dilution method revealed that ciprofloxacin (CIP) (90.6%), ceftriaxone (CRO) (67.9%), and tetracycline (TET) (45.3%) were the predominant AMR patterns. MDR was detected in 41.5% (22/53) of the isolates tested. Fifty-seven virulence genes were identified in all C. jejuni isolates; most of these genes were associated with motility (n = 28) and chemotaxis (n = 10). Additionally, all C. jejuni isolates harbored virulence genes related to adhesion, invasion, LOS, LPS, CPS, transportation, and CDT. In total, 16 sequence types (STs) and 11 clonal complexes (CC) were identified based on core-genome MLST (cgMLST) analysis. The data analysis revealed distinct diversity depending on phenotypic and genotypic antimicrobial resistance of C. jejuni.
Trend Analysis of Large Language Models through a Developer Community: A Focus on Stack Overflow
Authors: Son Jungha , Kim Boyoung
Published: November 2023

In the rapidly advancing field of large language model (LLM) research, platforms like Stack Overflow offer invaluable insights into the developer community’s perceptions, challenges, and interactions. This research aims to analyze LLM research and development trends within the professional community. Through the rigorous analysis of Stack Overflow, employing a comprehensive dataset spanning several years, the study identifies the prevailing technologies and frameworks underlining the dominance of models and platforms such as Transformer and Hugging Face. Furthermore, a thematic exploration using Latent Dirichlet Allocation unravels a spectrum of LLM discussion topics. As a result of the analysis, twenty keywords were derived, and a total of five key dimensions, “OpenAI Ecosystem and Challenges”, “LLM Training with Frameworks”, “APIs, File Handling and App Development”, “Programming Constructs and LLM Integration”, and “Data Processing and LLM Functionalities”, were identified through intertopic distance mapping. This research underscores the notable prevalence of specific Tags and technologies within the LLM discourse, particularly highlighting the influential roles of Transformer models and frameworks like Hugging Face. This dominance not only reflects the preferences and inclinations of the developer community but also illuminates the primary tools and technologies they leverage in the continually evolving field of LLMs.
Minimally Invasive Surgery for Simple Congenital Heart Defects: Preserving Aesthetics without Jeopardizing Patient Safety
Authors: Lo Rito Mauro , Brindicci Ylenia Claudia Maria , Moscatiello Mario , Varrica Alessandro , Reali Matteo , Saracino Antonio , Chessa Massimo , Aloisio Tommaso , Isgrò Giuseppe , Giamberti Alessandro
Published: November 2023

Minimally invasive surgeries for pediatric patients have been proposed for decades, with different approaches in mind. Minimal right axillary thoracotomy (MRAT), proposed two decades ago, allows the preservation of patients’ safety alongside faster aesthetic and functional recovery. The MRAT did not become widely adopted due to the prejudice that to follow a minimally invasive approach, safety and efficacy must be compromised. With this study, we aim to compare MRAT to the standard median sternotomy approach with a focus on safety and clinical outcomes. Between January 2017 and April 2021, 216 patients diagnosed with ASD, pAVSD, or PAPVD underwent surgical repair with different approaches in the same period. MRAT was used for 78 patients, and median sternotomy was used for 138 patients. In this last group, standard median sternotomy (SMS) was used for 116 patients, while a minimal skin incision (SMS mini) was used for 22 patients. There were no major complications overall nor in each specific approach. MRAT enabled the successful repair of simple heart defects, providing similar post-operative and cardiological recovery. MRAT does not compromise patients’ safety and does not prolong the duration of surgery once the learning curve is overcome, which is generally after 15–20 consecutive operations.
Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection in the Upper Gastrointestinal Tract and the Need for Rescue Surgery—A Multicenter Analysis
Authors: Pimingstorfer Philipp , Biebl Matthias , Gregus Matus , Kurz Franz , Schoefl Rainer , Shamiyeh Andreas , Spaun Georg O. , Ziachehabi Alexander , Fuegger Reinhold
Published: November 2023

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) has become the standard treatment for early malignant lesions in the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Its clinical results have been reported to be as good as surgery. The outcomes of rescue surgery after non-curative ESD have been reported to be as good as first-line surgery. The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of ESD in the upper GI tract and the outcomes of rescue surgery after non-curative ESD performed in Linz, Austria, between 2009 and January 2023. A total of 193 ESDs were included and divided into 104 esophageal ESD and 89 gastric ESD procedures. The criteria for curative ESD were in line with established guidelines’ recommendations. For esophageal lesions, the mean lesion size was 40.3 mm and the rate of curative ESD was 56.7%. In the non-curative ESD, the rate of technical failure as the reason for non-curative ESD was 13.3% and the oncological failure rate was 86.7%. Only 48.7% of indicated rescue surgeries were performed. The main reason for not performing surgery was interdisciplinary consensus due to comorbidity. Perioperative complications Dindo–Clavien ≥ 3 occurred in 22.2% of cases with an in-hospital mortality rate of 0. In gastric lesions, the mean size was 39 mm and the rate of curative ESD was 69.7%. The rate of technical failure as a reason for non-curative ESD was 25.9% and the oncological failure rate was 74.1% for non-curative ESD. Rescue surgery was performed in 48.2% of indicated cases. The perioperative rate for major complications was 0. The outcome of ESD in the upper GI tract is in line with the published literature, and non-curative ESD does not worsen surgical outcomes. The available follow-up data are in line with the international published literature, showing a low rate of residual malignancy in surgical resection specimens. Therefore, the indication of rescue surgery for oncological failure remains challenging. Furthermore, the learning curve of ESD has shown a trend towards improving outcomes over time.
Animal Bite Injuries to the Face: A Retrospective Evaluation of 111 Cases
Authors: Maurer Michael , Schlipköter Cornelius , Gottsauner Maximilian , Waiss Waltraud , Meier Johannes K. , Fiedler Mathias , Schuderer Johannes G. , Taxis Juergen , Reichert Torsten E. , Ettl Tobias
Published: November 2023

The treatment of bite wounds to the face is discussed controversially in relation to surgery and antibiotics. The aim of this study is a retrospective evaluation of 111 cases of animal bite injuries to the face that presented to our unit of oral and maxillofacial surgery over a 13-year period. Children under 10 years of age were predominantly involved. A total of 94.5% of the assessed injuries were caused by dogs. Wound infections occurred in 8.1%. Lackmann type II was the most common type of injury (36.9%). The perioral area was affected most frequently (40.5%). Primary wound closure was carried out in 74.8% of the cases. In 91.9% of the cases, antibiotic prophylaxis was prescribed. The most often administered type of antibiotic was amoxicillin with clavulanic acid (62.1%). Patients without antibiotics showed an increased infection rate without significance. Wound infections occurred significantly more frequently in wounds to the cheeks (p = 0.003) and when local flap reconstruction was necessary (p = 0.048). Compared to the other surgical treatment options, primary closure showed the lowest infection rates (4.8%, p = 0.029). We recommend antibiotic prophylaxis using amoxicillin with clavulanic acid and wound drains for wounds of Lackmann class II or higher. Primary closure seems to be the treatment of choice whenever possible.
The Prognostic Value of Arterial Stiffness According to Socioeconomic Status
Authors: Lim Woo-Hyun , Kim Hack-Lyoung , Joh Hyun Sung , Seo Jae-Bin , Kim Sang-Hyun , Zo Joo-Hee , Kim Myung-A
Published: November 2023

Background: Individuals of low socioeconomic status (SES) often exhibit increased cardiovascular risk factors and a worse prognosis. We conducted this study to ascertain whether brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV), a straightforward and reliable measure of arterial stiffness, can hold prognostic value for people with low SES. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed a total of 1266 subjects (mean age 64.6 ± 11.6 years; 47.2% female) without documented cardiovascular disease who had undergone baPWV measurement. The subjects included 633 National Health Insurance Beneficiaries (NHIB) and 633 Medical Aid Beneficiaries (MAB), matched for major clinical features through a 1:1 propensity score matching method. Major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), such as death, non-fatal myocardial infarction, non-fatal ischemic stroke, coronary revascularization, and heart failure necessitating admission, were assessed during the clinical follow-up. Results: During a median follow-up period of 4.2 years (interquartile range, 2.2–5.7 years), there were 77 MACE cases (6.1%). In multivariable Cox regression analyses, baPWV was identified as a significant predictor of MACE in both groups, regardless of the use of three different baPWV criteria (median value, Asian consensus recommendation, and cut-off value obtained by receiver operating characteristic [ROC] curve analysis). In both groups, the baPWV value obtained using ROC curve analysis emerged as the best predictor of MACE. This predictive value was stronger in the NHIB group (hazard ratio, 5.80; 95% confidence interval, 2.30–14.65; p < 0.001) than in the MAB group (hazard ratio, 3.30; 95% confidence interval, 1.57–6.92; p = 0.002). Conclusions: baPWV was associated with future MACE incidence in both NHIB and MAB groups. Since baPWV is simple and cost-effective to measure, it could be efficiently used as a risk stratification tool for individuals with low SES.
Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Consequence of Patient-Intrinsic or -Extrinsic Factors?
Authors: Emmanouilidou Evgenia , Kosmara Despoina , Papadaki Efrosini , Mastorodemos Vasileios , Constantoulakis Pantelis , Repa Argyro , Christopoulou Georgia , Kalpadakis Christina , Avgoustidis Nestor , Thomas Konstantinos , Boumpas Dimitrios , Sidiropoulos Prodromos , Bertsias George
Published: November 2023

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) is a severe demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS) caused by reactivation of the polyomavirus JC (JCV) typically in immunocompromised individuals. The risk of PML among rheumatic diseases may be higher for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), without, however, a clear association with the type and intensity of background therapy. We present the development and outcome of PML in a 32-year-old female lupus patient under mild immunosuppressive treatment, yet with marked B-cell lymphopenia in the peripheral blood and bone marrow (<1% of total lymphocytes). Despite treatment with the immune checkpoint inhibitor pembrolizumab, the patient showed progressive neurological and brain imaging deterioration and eventually died 15 months after PML diagnosis. To unveil possible underlying genetic liabilities, whole exome sequencing was performed which identified deleterious variants in GATA2 and CDH7 genes, which both have been linked to defective T- and/or B-lymphocyte production. These findings reiterate the possible role of disease-/patient-intrinsic factors, rather than that of drug-induced immunosuppression, in driving immune dysregulation and susceptibility to PML in certain patients with SLE.
Correction: Felsenstein M. et al. Perineural Invasion in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma (PDAC): A Saboteur of Curative Intended Therapies? J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11, 2367
Authors: Felsenstein Matthäus , Lindhammer Flora , Feist Mathilde , Hillebrandt Karl Herbert , Timmermann Lea , Benzing Christian , Globke Brigitta , Zocholl Dario , Hu Mengwen , Fehrenbach Uli , Sinn Bruno Valentin , Pelzer Uwe , Sauer Igor Maximillian , Pratschke Johann , Malinka Thomas
Published: November 2023

In the original publication [...]
Initial Learning Curve for Robot-Assisted Total Knee Arthroplasty in a Dedicated Orthopedics Center
Authors: Dragosloveanu Serban , Petre Mihnea-Alexandru , Capitanu Bogdan Sorin , Dragosloveanu Christiana Diana Maria , Cergan Romica , Scheau Cristian
Published: November 2023

Background and objectives: Our study aimed to assess the learning curve for robot-assisted (RA) total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in our hospital, compare operative times between RA-TKAs and manual TKAs, and assess the early complications rate between the two approaches. Methods: We included 39 patients who underwent RA-TKA and 45 control patients subjected to manual TKA in the same period and operated on by the same surgical staff. We collected demographic and patient-related data to assess potential differences between the two groups. Results: No statistical differences were recorded in regard to age, BMI, sex, Kellgren–Lawrence classification, or limb alignment between patients undergoing RA-TKA and manual TKA, respectively. Three surgeons transitioned from the learning to the proficiency phase in our study after a number of 6, 4, and 3 cases, respectively. The overall operative time for the learning phase was 111.54 ± 20.45 min, significantly longer compared to the average of 86.43 ± 19.09 min in the proficiency phase (p = 0.0154) and 80.56 ± 17.03 min for manual TKAs (p < 0.0001). No statistically significant difference was recorded between the global operative time for the proficiency phase TKAs versus the controls. No major complications were recorded in either RA-TKA or manual TKA groups. Conclusions: Our results suggest that experienced surgeons may adopt RA-TKA using this platform and quickly adapt without significant complications.
Five-Year Efficacy and Safety of TiNO-Coated Stents Versus Drug-Eluting Stents in Acute Coronary Syndrome: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Daoud Frederic C. , Catargi Bogdan , Karjalainen Pasi P. , Gerbaud Edouard
Published: November 2023

(1) Background: Percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) are performed with titanium-nitride-oxide-coated stents (TiNOSs) or drug-eluting stents (DESs). The initial completion of this prospective systematic literature review (SLR) of prospective randomized controlled trials (RCTs) showed that TiNOSs are non-inferior to DESs in major adverse cardiac event (MACE) rates and present a lower risk of recurrent myocardial infarction (MI) at 1-year follow-up. This iteration of the SLR protocol performs the critical assessment of 5-year follow-up outcomes with clinical validity and generalizability assessments. (2) Methods: The previously described SLR and meta-analysis protocol, per PRISMA, Cochrane methods, and GRADE, was applied to 5-year follow-up outcomes. (3) Results: Three RCTs were eligible, comprising 1620 patients with TiNOS vs. 1123 with DES. The pooled risk ratios (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals were MACE 0.82 [0.68, 0.99], MI 0.58 [0.44, 0.78], cardiac death (CD) 0.46 [0.28, 0.76], ischemia-driven target lesion revascularization (TLR) 1.03 [0.79, 1.33], probable or definite stent thrombosis (ST) 0.32 [0.21, 0.59], and all-cause mortality (TD) 0.84 [0.63, 1.12]. The evidence certainty was high in MACE, CD, MI, and ST, and moderate in TLR and TD. (4) Conclusions: TiNOSs in ACS at 5-year follow-up appear safer than DESs and equally efficacious. The pooled RRs stratified by clinical presentation and stent type will be required to test this meta-analysis’s clinical validity and generalize its results to patient populations with varying proportions of clinical presentations and DES options.