bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Emb-trattunet: a novel edge loss function and transformer-CNN architecture for multi-classes pneumonia infection segmentation in low annotation regimes
Authors: Bougourzi Fares , Dornaika Fadi , Nakib Amir , Taleb-Ahmed Abdelmalik
Published: March 2024

One of the primary challenges in applying deep learning approaches to medical imaging is the limited availability of data due to various factors. These factors include concerns about data privacy and the requirement for expert radiologists to perform the time-consuming and labor-intensive task of labeling data, particularly for tasks such as segmentation. Consequently, there is a critical need to develop novel approaches for few-shot learning tasks in this domain. In this work, we propose a Novel CNN-Transformer Fusion scheme to segment Multi-classes pneumonia infection from limited CT-scans data. In total, there are three main contributions: (i) CNN-Transformer encoders fusion, which allows to extract and fuse richer features in the encoding phase, which contains: local, global and long-range dependencies features, (ii) Multi-Branches Skip Connection (MBSC) is proposed to extract and fuse richer features from the encoder features then integrate them into the decoder layers, where MBSC blocks extract higher-level features related to the finer details of different infection types, and (iii) a Multi-classes Boundary Aware Cross-Entropy (MBA-CE) Loss function is proposed to deal with fuzzy boundaries, enhance the separability between classes and give more attention to the minority classes. The performance of the proposed approach is evaluated using two evaluation scenarios and compared with different baseline and state-of-the-art segmentation architectures for Multi-classes Covid-19 segmentation. The obtained results show that our approach outperforms the comparison methods in both Ground-Glass Opacity (GGO) and Consolidation segmentation. On the other hand, our approach shows consistent performance when the training data is reduced to half, which proves the efficiency of our approach in few-shot learning. In contrast, the performance of the comparison methods drops in this scenario. Moreover, our approach is able to deal with imbalanced data classes. These advantages prove the effectiveness and efficiency of the proposed EMB-TrAttUnet approach in a pandemic scenario where time is critical to save patient lives.
The Effects of Switching to Video Therapy on In-Session Processes in Psychotherapy During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Edelbluth Susanne , Schwartz Brian , Lutz Wolfgang
Published: March 2024

Objective and Aim

This study aimed to assess the impact of switching from face-to-face (f2f) psychotherapy to video therapy (VT) due to the COVID-19 pandemic on in-session processes, i.e., the therapeutic alliance, coping skills, and emotional involvement, as rated by both patients and therapists.

Methods

A total of N = 454 patients with mood or anxiety disorders were examined. The intervention group (IG) consisted of n = 227 patient-therapist dyads, who switched from f2f to VT, while the control group (CG) consisted of n = 227 patient-therapist dyads, who were treated f2f before the pandemic. To evaluate the effects of switching to VT on in-session processes, three longitudinal piecewise multilevel models, one per process variable, were fitted. Each process variable was regressed on the session number with a slope for the three sessions before switching to VT and a second slope for up to six VT sessions afterwards.

Results

The therapeutic alliance significantly increased after switching from f2f to VT across the two groups (IG and CG) and raters (patients and therapists) with no differences between IG and CG. On average, patients rated the therapeutic alliance better than therapists. Coping skills significantly increased after switching from f2f to VT across the two groups and raters, but the CG rated coping skills higher than the IG after the switch. Overall, therapists rated coping skills higher than patients. Emotional involvement did not significantly increase after switching to VT across the two groups and raters and there was no significant difference between patient and therapist ratings.

Discussion

In conclusion, the switch to VT had no negative impact on the therapeutic alliance and emotional involvement. However, more coping skills were reported in the CG than in the IG after the switch to VT, which was mainly due to a stagnation in patient-rated coping skills in the IG.
New hard tick (Acari: Ixodidae) reports and detection of Rickettsia in ticks from Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Colombia
Authors: Oviedo Ángel , Rodríguez Miguel M. , Flores Fernando S. , Castro Lyda R.
Published: March 2024

The Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta (SNSM), located in northern Colombia, is considered a geographical island with high levels of biodiversity and endemism. However, little is known about tick species and their associated microorganisms at the SNSM. In this study we sampled host-seeking ticks in areas of the town of Minca within the SNSM. We collected 47 ticks identified as Amblyomma pacae, Amblyomma longirostre, Amblyomma ovale, Amblyomma mixtum, Haemaphysalis juxtakochi, Ixodes sp. cf. Ixodesaffinis and Ixodes sp. Of these ticks, we tested for Rickettsia spp. by amplifying the gltA, SCA1, and 16S rRNA genes via PCR. Rickettsia amblyommatis was detected in one pool of 3 larvae and in a female of A. pacae. Additonally, we isolated Rickettsia sp. belonging to the group of spotted fevers in larvae of A. longirostre. This study reports new findings of six species of ticks and two species of Rickettsia within the SNSM.
Towards invasion ecology for subterranean ecosystems
Authors: Nicolosi Giuseppe , Gerovasileiou Vasilis
Published: March 2024

Invasive alien species (IAS) are widely recognized as a major threat to ecosystems globally. Despite the growing interest and research effort on biological invasions, the impact of IAS on both terrestrial and aquatic subterranean habitats remains considerably under-studied in comparison to other environments. The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) has established global targets to mitigate the impacts of IAS, emphasizing the need for countries, organizations, and the scientific community to identify gaps in knowledge, monitoring, and management strategies for IAS. To this end, we mapped knowledge gaps in biological invasions of subterranean habitats that emerged from the first systematic surveys of the available information. We suggest that there are five main gaps restricting our ability to understand and tackle biological invasions in subterranean ecosystems. Given the vulnerability of subterranean ecosystems and the lack of attention they have received in conservation policies, it is crucial to increase research emphasis on IAS. This opinion paper aims to stimulate such efforts and contribute to the preservation of these ecosystems.
A phase 1 trial of the MEK inhibitor selumetinib in combination with pembrolizumab for advanced or metastatic solid tumors
Authors: Chénard-Poirier Maxime , Hansen Aaron R. , Gutierrez Martin E. , Rasco Drew , Xing Yan , Chen Lin-Chi , Zhou Heng , Webber Andrea L. , Freshwater Tomoko , Sharma Manish R.
Published: March 2024

MEK inhibitors have immunomodulatory activity and potential for synergistic activity when combined with PD-1 inhibitors. We evaluated selumetinib (inhibitor of MEK1/2) plus pembrolizumab (anti‒PD-1 antibody) in patients with advanced/metastatic solid tumors. In this phase 1b study, adults with previously treated advanced/metastatic solid tumors received pembrolizumab 200 mg intravenously every 3 weeks plus selumetinib on days 1‒14 per 3-week cycle (2 weeks on/1 week off); selumetinib dosing began at 50 mg orally twice daily with escalation in 25 mg increments for ≤ 35 cycles. Primary endpoints were dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs), adverse events (AEs), and treatment discontinuations due to AEs. Thirty-two patients were enrolled. Dose escalation was completed up to selumetinib 125 mg twice daily. The target DLT rate of 30% was not reached at any dose level. In the selumetinib 100 mg group, 2/11 patients (18.2%) experienced DLTs (n = 1 grade 3 diarrhea, n = 1 grade 3 fatigue). In the selumetinib 125 mg group, 3/14 (21.4%) experienced DLTs (n = 1 grade 2 retinal detachment, n = 1 grade 3 retinopathy, n = 1 grade 3 stomatitis). Dose-related changes in pharmacokinetic exposures were observed for selumetinib and N-desmethyl selumetinib up to 100 mg (saturation at 125 mg). Two patients achieved partial responses (1 each with selumetinib 75 mg and 125 mg) for an objective response rate of 6%. The study was stopped early because of insufficient efficacy. Although the target DLT rate was not reached at any dose level and no new safety signals were identified, selumetinib plus pembrolizumab had limited antitumor activity in this population. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03833427.
The development of the student online learning patience scale (SOLPS)
Authors: Eryilmaz Ali , Basal Ahmet
Published: March 2024

Learning does not happen immediately; it takes time and effort. Thus, patience is a virtue required for any type of successful learning. Given the increasing prevalence of online learning, understanding students’ patience is necessary to devise ways to sustain it. In this study, we define online learning patience as the ability to steadily continue studying or practicing in the online learning environments, even when it becomes difficult or takes a long time. The present study aimed to develop and validate a new instrument, the Student Online Learning Patience Scale (SOLPS), using a cross-sectional research design. The study participants, distributed across four distinct groups: Exploratory (n = 250 students), Confirmatory (n = 266 students), Validity for Impulsivity and Test-anxiety (n = 486 students), and Validity for Self-control (n = 232 students). The items in the scale were based on the literature and analysis of interviews with students. The scale structure was examined through Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA), and reliability and validity were tested. The final SOLPS consists of 10 items with one dimension and can be used to create teaching methods and strategies that increase students’ online learning patience.
Hydrogeochemical and environmental isotope study of Topusko thermal waters, Croatia
Authors: Pavić Mirja , Briški Maja , Pola Marco , Borović Staša
Published: March 2024

Thermal waters in Topusko (Croatia), with temperatures of up to 65 °C, have been used for heating, health, and recreational tourism for the past fifty years. Hydrogeochemical monitoring can provide insights into deeper geological processes and indicate system changes from baseline levels. It helps to identify potential anthropogenic impacts, as well as natural changes. Hydrogeochemical, geothermometrical, and environmental isotope studies of thermal waters in Topusko were conducted to improve the existing conceptual model of the Topusko hydrothermal system (THS), providing a baseline for continuous monitoring of the thermal resource. 2-year thermal springs and precipitation monitoring took place from March 2021 until March 2023. Major anions and cations, stable and radioactive isotopes (i.e. 18O, 2H, SO42−, 3H and 14C) and geothermometers were used to assess the origin of thermal waters in Topusko and their interaction with thermal aquifer. The results indicate the meteoric origin of thermal water, which was recharged in colder climatic conditions around the late Pleistocene–Early Holocene. Thermal water was last in contact with the atmosphere before approximately 9.5 kyr. Ca-HCO3 hydrochemical facies suggests carbonate dissolution as the dominant process driving the solute content. Geothermometrical results indicate an equilibrium temperature in the reservoir of 90 °C.
Pre-emergence herbicides widely used in urban and farmland soils: fate, and potential human and environmental health risks
Authors: Parven Aney , Md Meftaul Islam , Venkateswarlu Kadiyala , Gopalan Saianand , Megharaj Mallavarapu
Published: March 2024

We determined the distribution, fate, and health hazards of dimethenamid-P, metazachlor, and pyroxasulfone, the effective pre-emergence herbicides widely used both in urban and agricultural settings globally. The rate-determining phase of sorption kinetics of these herbicides in five soils followed a pseudo-second-order model. Freundlich isotherm model indicated that the herbicides primarily partition into heterogeneous surface sites on clay minerals and organic matter (OM) and diffuse into soil micropores. Principal component analysis revealed that soil OM (R2, 0.47), sand (R2, 0.56), and Al oxides (R2, 0.33) positively correlated with the herbicide distribution coefficient (Kd), whereas clay (R2, ‒ 0.43), silt (R2, ‒ 0.51), Fe oxides (R2, ‒ 0.02), alkaline pH (R2, ‒ 0.57), and EC (R2, ‒ 0.03) showed a negative correlation with the Kd values. Decomposed OM rich in C=O and C–H functional groups enhanced herbicide sorption, while undecomposed/partially-decomposed OM facilitated desorption process. Also, the absence of hysteresis (H, 0.27‒0.88) indicated the enhanced propensity of herbicide desorption in soils. Leachability index (LIX, < 0.02–0.64) and groundwater ubiquity score (GUS, 0.02‒3.59) for the soils suggested low to moderate leaching potential of the herbicides to waterbodies, indicating their impact on water quality, nontarget organisms, and food safety. Hazard quotient and hazard index data for human adults and adolescents suggested that exposure to soils contaminated with herbicides via dermal contact, ingestion, and inhalation poses minimal to no non-carcinogenic risks. These insights can assist farmers in judicious use of herbicides and help the concerned regulatory authorities in monitoring the safety of human and environmental health.

Graphical abstract
Pyruvate Kinase M2 Nuclear Translocation Regulate Ferroptosis-Associated Acute Lung Injury in Cytokine Storm
Authors: Wang Haiting , Fan Chenyu , Chen Xuelian , Zhou Wei , Guo Li , Zhao Feng , Ye Shuang , He Shuangjun , Chen Yi
Published: March 2024

Cytokine storm (CS) is linked with macrophage dysfunction and acute lung injury (ALI), which can lead to patient mortality. Glycolysis is preferentially exploited by the pro-inflammatory macrophages, in which pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2) is a critical enzyme. The mechanism underlying the link between CS and ALI involves cell death, with the recently discovered programmed cell death known as ferroptosis being involved. However, the relationship between the glycolysis and ferroptosis in the context of CS-related ALI remains unclear. CS-associated ALI induced by poly I:C (10 mg/kg, i.v) and LPS (5 mg/kg, i.p) (IC: LPS) exhibit significant ferroptosis. Ferrostatin-1 (ferroptosis inhibitor) treatment attenuated IC:LPS‑induced mortality and lung injury. Moreover, Alveolar macrophage (AM) from IC:LPS model exhibited enhanced glycolysis and PKM2 translocation. The administration of ML-265(PKM2 monomer/dimer inhibitor) resulted in the formation of a highly active tetrameric PKM2, leading to improved survival and attenuation of ALI. Furthermore, ML-265 treatment decreased ferroptosis and restored the balance between anaerobic glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation. Notably, in patients with lung infection, intracellular expression level of PKM2 were correlated with circulating inflammation. Enhanced ferroptosis and PKM2 nuclear translocation was noticed in CD14+ blood monocytes of lung infection patients with CS. In conclusion, PKM2 is a key regulatory node integrating metabolic reprograming with intra-nuclear function for the regulation of ferroptosis. Targeting PKM2 could be explored as a potential means in the future to prevent or alleviate hyper-inflammatory state or cytokines storm syndrome with aberrant ferroptotic cell death.
Amygdala Volume is Associated with ADHD Risk and Severity Beyond Comorbidities in Adolescents: Clinical Testing of Brain Chart Reference Standards
Authors: Nárai Ádám , Hermann Petra , Rádosi Alexandra , Vakli Pál , Weiss Béla , Réthelyi János M. , Bunford Nóra , Vidnyánszky Zoltán
Published: March 2024

Understanding atypicalities in ADHD brain correlates is a step towards better understanding ADHD etiology. Efforts to map atypicalities at the level of brain structure have been hindered by the absence of normative reference standards. Recent publication of brain charts allows for assessment of individual variation relative to age- and sex-adjusted reference standards and thus estimation not only of case-control differences but also of intraindividual prediction. Methods. Aim was to examine, whether brain charts can be applied in a sample of adolescents (N = 140, 38% female) to determine whether atypical brain subcortical and total volumes are associated with ADHD at-risk status and severity of parent-rated symptoms, accounting for self-rated anxiety and depression, and parent-rated oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) as well as motion. Results. Smaller bilateral amygdala volume was associated with ADHD at-risk status, beyond effects of comorbidities and motion, and smaller bilateral amygdala volume was associated with inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity, beyond effects of comorbidities except for ODD symptoms, and motion. Conclusions. Individual differences in amygdala volume meaningfully add to estimating ADHD risk and severity. Conceptually, amygdalar involvement is consistent with behavioral and functional imaging data on atypical reinforcement sensitivity as a marker of ADHD-related risk. Methodologically, results show that brain chart reference standards can be applied to address clinically informative, focused and specific questions.
Antioxidant capacity and lipid composition of Brachionus plicatilis and Artemia enriched with a mixture of different post-processing formats of Navicula salinicola and Isochrysis galbana and lipid emulsions
Authors: Galindo A. , Pérez J. A. , Almansa E. , Rosa G. P. , Jiménez I. A. , Venuleo M. , Acosta N. G. , Rodríguez C.
Published: March 2024

Live prey used by the aquaculture industry are usually poor in some essential nutrients including long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFA) and must be enriched to improve their nutritional value prior to larval feeding. Standard enrichment protocols are commonly based on lipid emulsions, being associated to a high oxidative stress condition. The combination of microalgae and lipid emulsion can palliate this situation, where the oxidative stress can be partially compensated by the antioxidant compounds present in microalgae. The maintenance of living microalgae in culture facilities is laborious, and the produced biomass may present fluctuating properties, leading to a serious bottleneck in the cultivation of live prey. Hence, substitutes for live microalgae including pastes or dried formats are receiving increasing research attention due to its nutritional stability, longer shelf-life and easy handling. In this study four different microalgae formats combined with a lipid emulsion are tested as enrichment products for Brachionus plicatilis and Artemia. Thus, fresh, frozen and spray-dried Navicula salinicola (NFRE, NFRO and NSD, respectively), and spray-dried Isochrysis galbana (ISD) were mixed with a commercial oil concentrate (IncromegaTM) or a marine lecithin (LC 60®), and added for 5 h to the rotifer or Artemia culture media. The antioxidant capacity of the microalgae extracts and the live prey activity of antioxidant enzymes, peroxides index (PxI) and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) were evaluated. The lipid profile of microalgae formats and enriched live preys was also determined. Ethyl acetate extract was the most antioxidant active extract of all microalgae formats. In addition, overall, I. galbana seems to be better than any N. salinicola format for a more effective protection against oxidative stress and for live prey lipid enrichment. Both rotifer and Artemia cultured with the mixture of I. galbana and the lipid emulsion generally showed higher DHA/EPA and EPA/ARA ratios. Moreover, the combination of the microalgae with LC 60® lipid emulsion highly favored Artemia´s polar lipid and DHA incorporation. Among microalgae products, both spray-dried formats better enhanced live prey n-3 LC-PUFA content. Our results highlight the great potential of new microalgae-derived products to improve effectiveness of current live prey lipid enrichment protocols used in aquaculture.
Novel Fe-MOF@Cu/NiAl-LDH as Photo-Catalysts in Methane Bireforming: Effect of Preparation Strategy
Authors: El‑Hafiz Dalia R. Abd , Sakr Ayat A.‑E.
Published: March 2024

In this work, Fe-MOF@Ni/CuAl-LDH nanocomposites are developed for the first time in photocatalytic CO2/CH4 conversion to ultrapure formaldehyde. The reaction takes place in a dynamic (continuous flow) photosystem working under atmospheric pressure in presence of visible-light irradiation. The visible-light-active photocatalysts are prepared using two strategies in order to enhance both morphology and optical properties of the new composite. First strategy based on growing of MOF on the in-situ N2 exfoliated LDH using solvothermal reaction (FMNHT and FMCHT), where, the MOF is formed on surface and/or inside lamellar layer. The second based on formation of LDH around the previously prepared Fe-MOF via microwave assisted method (NFMMW and CFMMW). The data herein indicate that, both samples NFMMW and CFMMW, have LDH/MOF strong electronic coupling and exhibit an adjustable band gap share in improve charge generation/separation rate, reduce e−/h+ recombination rate and increase light absorption capacity. Those characteristics provide higher efficiency in photocatalytic CH4/CO2 conversion and give high selectivity toward ultrapure formaldehyde formation (99.9%).
Resistance Profile, Terbinafine Resistance Screening and MALDI-TOF MS Identification of the Emerging Pathogen Trichophyton indotineae
Authors: De Paepe Roelke , Normand Anne-Cécile , Uhrlaß Silke , Nenoff Pietro , Piarroux Renaud , Packeu Ann
Published: March 2024

The emerging pathogen Trichophyton indotineae, often resistant to terbinafine (TRB), is known to cause severe dermatophytoses such as tinea corporis and tinea cruris. In order to achieve successful treatment for these infections, insight in the resistance profile of T. indotineae strains and rapid, reliable identification is necessary. In this research, a screening medium was tested on T. indotineae strains (n = 20) as an indication tool of TRB resistance. The obtained results were confirmed by antifungal susceptibility testing (AST) for TRB following the in vitro broth microdilution reference method. Additionally, AST was performed for eight other antifungal drugs: fluconazole, itraconazole, voriconazole, ketoconazole, griseofulvin, ciclopirox olamine, naftifine and amorolfine. Forty-five percent of the strains were confirmed to be resistant to terbinafine. The TRB resistant strains showed elevated minimal inhibitory concentration values for naftifine and amorolfine as well. DNA sequencing of the squalene epoxidase-encoding gene showed that TRB resistance was a consequence of missense point mutations in this gene, which led to amino acid substitutions F397L or L393F. MALDI-TOF MS was used as a quick, accurate identification tool for T. indotineae, as it can be challenging to distinguish it from closely related species such as Trichophyton mentagrophytes or Trichophyton interdigitale using morphological characteristics. While MALDI-TOF MS could reliably identify ≥ 95% of the T. indotineae strains (depending on the spectral library), it could not be used to successfully distinguish TRB susceptible from TRB resistant strains.
Dissipativity of Stochastic Competitive Neural Networks with Multiple Time Delays
Authors: Tang Dandan , Wang Baoxian , Hao Caiqing
Published: March 2024

The $$(Q,R,S)-\gamma -$$

(
Q
,
R
,
S
)
-
γ
-

dissipative of stochastic competitive neural networks (SCNNs) with leakage delays and discrete delay is studied. Firstly, Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional is constructed, which studies the relationship between various types of time delays. Secondly, by using integral inequality technique, the linear matrix inequality (LMI) criterion of $$(Q,R,S)-\gamma -$$

(
Q
,
R
,
S
)
-
γ
-

dissipative in the mean square sense of SCNNs is obtained. Furthermore, the obtained LMI criterion is extended to the passivity in the mean square sense, stability in the mean square sense, $$(Q,R,S)-\gamma -$$

(
Q
,
R
,
S
)
-
γ
-

dissipative and passivity. Finally, the effectiveness of the obtained results are verified by numerical simulation.
Properties and practicability of convergence-guaranteed optimization methods derived from weak discrete gradients
Authors: Ushiyama Kansei , Sato Shun , Matsuo Takayasu
Published: March 2024

The ordinary differential equation (ODE) models of optimization methods allow for concise proofs of convergence rates through discussions based on Lyapunov functions. The weak discrete gradient (wDG) framework discretizes ODEs while preserving the properties of convergence, serving as a foundation for deriving optimization methods. Although various optimization methods have been derived through wDG, their properties and practical applicability remain underexplored. Hence, this study elucidates these aspects through numerical experiments. Particularly, although wDG yields several implicit methods, we highlight the potential utility of these methods in scenarios where the objective function incorporates a regularization term.
The Transition from Darcy to Nonlinear Flow in Heterogeneous Porous Media: I—Single-Phase Flow
Authors: Arbabi Sepehr , Sahimi Muhammad
Published: March 2024

Using extensive numerical simulation of the Navier–Stokes equations, we study the transition from the Darcy’s law for slow flow of fluids through a disordered porous medium to the nonlinear flow regime in which the effect of inertia cannot be neglected. The porous medium is represented by two-dimensional slices of a three-dimensional image of a sandstone. We study the problem over wide ranges of porosity and the Reynolds number, as well as two types of boundary conditions, and compute essential features of fluid flow, namely, the strength of the vorticity, the effective permeability of the pore space, the frictional drag, and the relationship between the macroscopic pressure gradient $${\varvec{\nabla }}P$$

∇

P

and the fluid velocity v. The results indicate that when the Reynolds number Re is low enough that the Darcy’s law holds, the magnitude $$\omega _z$$

ω
z

of the vorticity is nearly zero. As Re increases, however, so also does $$\omega _z$$

ω
z

, and its rise from nearly zero begins at the same Re at which the Darcy’s law breaks down. We also show that a nonlinear relation between the macroscopic pressure gradient and the fluid velocity v, given by, $$-{\varvec{\nabla }}P=(\mu /K_e)\textbf{v}+\beta _n\rho |\textbf{v}|^2\textbf{v}$$

-

∇

P
=

(
μ
/

K
e

)

v
+

β
n

ρ

|
v
|

2

v

, provides accurate representation of the numerical data, where $$\mu$$
μ
and $$\rho$$
ρ
are the fluid’s viscosity and density, $$K_e$$

K
e

is the effective Darcy permeability in the linear regime, and $$\beta _n$$

β
n

is a generalized nonlinear resistance. Theoretical justification for the relation is presented, and its predictions are also compared with those of the Forchheimer’s equation.
Expression and significance of SIRT6 in human peritoneal dialysis effluents and peritoneal mesothelial cells
Authors: Shi Shuai-Shuai , Zhang Yi-Qiang , Zhang Lu-Qi , Li Yun-Feng , Zhou Xiao-Shuang , Li Rong-Shan
Published: March 2024

Sirtuin 6 (SIRT6) can inhibit the fibrosis of many organs. However, the relationship between SIRT6 and peritoneal fibrosis (PF) in peritoneal dialysis (PD) remains unclear. We collected 110 PD patients with a duration of PD for more than 3 months and studied the influence of PD duration and history of peritonitis on SIRT6 levels in PD effluents (PDEs). We also analyzed the relationship between SIRT6 levels in PDEs and transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1), IL-6, PD duration, peritoneal function, PD ultrafiltration (UF), and glucose exposure. We extracted human peritoneal mesothelial cells (HPMCs) from PDEs and measured the protein and gene expression levels of SIRT6, E-cadherin, vimentin, and TGF-β1 in these cells. Based on the clinical results, we used human peritoneal mesothelial cells lines (HMrSV5) to observe the changes in SIRT6 levels and mesothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (MMT) after intervention with PD fluid. By overexpressing and knocking down SIRT6 expression, we investigated the effect of SIRT6 expression on E-cadherin, vimentin, and TGF-β1 expression to elucidate the role of SIRT6 in mesothelial-to-epithelial transition in PMCs. Results: (1) With the extension of PD duration, the influence of infection on SIRT6 levels in PDEs increased. Patients with the PD duration of more than 5 years and a history of peritonitis had the lowest SIRT6 levels. (2) SIRT6 levels in PDEs were negatively correlated with PD duration, total glucose exposure, TGF-β1, IL-6 levels, and the dialysate-to-plasma ratio of creatinine (Cr4hD/P), but positively correlated with UF. This indicates that SIRT6 has a protective effect on the peritoneum. (3) The short-term group (PD ≤ 1 year) had higher SIRT6 and E-cadherin gene and protein levels than the mid-term group (1 year < PD ≤ 5 years) and long-term group (PD > 5 years) in PMCs, while vimentin and TGF-β1 levels were lower in the mid-term group and long-term group. Patients with a history of peritonitis had lower SIRT6 and E-cadherin levels than those without such a history. (4) After 4.25% PD fluid intervention for HPMCs, longer intervention time resulted in lower SIRT6 levels. (5) Overexpressing SIRT6 can lead to increased E-cadherin expression and decreased vimentin and TGF-β1 expression in HPMCs. Knocking down SIRT6 expression resulted in decreased E-cadherin expression and increased vimentin and TGF-β1 expression in HPMCs. This indicates that SIRT6 expression can inhibit MMT in HPMCs, alleviate PF associated with PD, and have a protective effect on the peritoneum.
Sorptive Removal of 133Ba from Aqueous Solution Using a Novel Cellulose Hydroxyapatite Composite Derived from Cigarette Waste
Authors: Kusumkar Vipul Vilas , İnan Süleyman , Galamboš Michal , Viglašová Eva , Daňo Martin
Published: March 2024

133Ba is a hazardous radionuclide generated during the operation of nuclear power plants. 133Ba needs to be removed from waste solutions because its half-life (10.55 years) and gamma energy pose a significant threat to human health. Cigarette butt (CB) is a waste that causes serious environmental problems. Various types of adsorbent materials are prepared based on the cellulose in its structure. The focus of the present study is to synthesize a novel composite material derived from CBs and to investigate its 133Ba removal capability. Microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) obtained from CBs was modified with hydroxyapatite (HAp) via the co‐precipitation method and converted into a composite adsorbent for the removal of 133Ba ions. Response surface methodology (RSM) based on Box‐Behnken Design (BBD) was employed for the examination of process variables such as initial pH, metal concentration, and adsorbent amount on 133Ba sorption. XRD and FTIR data confirmed the successful isolation of cellulose and the modification of the cellulose surface with HAp. The model F-value (100.04) and R2 (0.99) suggested that the proposed model was significant. Optimum conditions were determined as initial pH of 8, contact time of 134 min, and concentration of 0.01 mol/L, and the barium sorption capacity of MFC‐HAp was found to be 0.75 mmol/g under these conditions. The maximum monolayer barium sorption capacity was determined to be 2.92 mmol/g. Combining cellulose and HAp to be a novel composite adsorbent is useful for reusing CB waste and promising for removing 133Ba ions from aqueous solutions.
Enhancement of the Microstructure and Fatigue Crack Growth Performance of Additive Manufactured Titanium Alloy Parts by Laser-Assisted Ultrasonic Vibration Processing
Authors: Ojo Sammy A. , Manigandan Kannan , Morscher Gregory N. , Gyekenyesi Andrew L.
Published: March 2024

Post-processing techniques can efficiently improve the surface quality, address microstructural defects, and optimize mechanical properties in additively manufactured parts. Surface severe plastic deformation processes such as ultrasonic nanocrystal surface modification (UNSM) integrated with localized laser heating were explored to enhance the surface properties, microstructure as well as the fatigue crack growth properties (FCG) in both directions of built. We successfully induced greater plasticity flow and achieved beneficial refinement of the surface grain structure by precisely controlling the heat and impact energies during surface treatment process. The LA-UNSM process, with the parameters utilized in this study considerably decreased the FCG rates of treated samples, when compared to samples without surface treatment. Improved fatigue crack growth properties along vertical and horizontal orientations after the post-process treatment were attributed to the induced-microstructural changes, improved surface quality, induced compressive residual stresses through gradient structure deformation layer that was prepared on the surface of the material. The fractographic analysis revealed that the cracks mostly originated from the pores in the as-produced state. This observation shows a clear correlation between the surface treatment performed and a substantial improvement in fatigue crack growth resistance.
Comparison of the efficacy of acupuncture with tuina with acupuncture-only in the treatment of peripheral facial paralysis: a network meta-analysis
Authors: Deng Xinyuan , Zhu Hao , Shi Luyan , Li Yanting , Shi Haiping , Wu Yicheng , Zhang Yu
Published: March 2024

At present, traditional Chinese medicine treatment is considered safe for treating peripheral facial paralysis (PFP). Acupuncture-only and acupuncture combined with tuina are widely used for this purpose. However, it is not clear whether acupuncture combined with tuina is better for treating PFP than acupuncture-only. Conventional meta-analysis and network meta-analysis were used to compare the clinical efficacies of acupuncture combined with tuina and acupuncture-only in the treatment of PFP. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs), with the subjects being patients with PFP and treatment interventions including acupuncture combined with tuina, acupuncture-only, tuina-only, placebo, single Western medicine, and steroids combined with other Western medicine were searched from both Chinese and English databases. The primary outcomes included Modified House–Brackmann (MHBN) scores and Sunnybrook Facial Grading System, whereas the secondary outcomes included cure time, Portmann scores, and physical function scale of Facial Disability Index, using conventional meta-analysis and network meta-analysis. The study included 22 RCTs with a sample size of 1814 patients. The results of conventional meta-analysis (MD = 16.12, 95%CI 13.13,19.10) and network meta-analysis (MD = 14.53, 95%CI 7.57,21.49) indicate that acupuncture combined with tuina was better than acupuncture-only in improving MHBN and shortening the cure time (MD = − 6.09, 95%CI  − 7.70, − 4.49). Acupuncture combined with tuina was the optimal therapy for improving MHBN (SUCRA was 100%) and shortening the cure time (SUCRA was 100%). The results of this meta-analysis indicate that acupuncture combined with tuina can significantly improve MHBN and shorten the cure time, compared with acupuncture-only. However, the current evidence is insufficient, and more high-quality clinical studies are needed.

Registration: This study had been registered with PROSPERO (CRD42022379395).
A Comprehensive Investigation of Tenderization Methods: Evaluating the Efficacy of Enzymatic and Non-Enzymatic Methods in Improving the Texture of Squid Mantle — A Detailed Comparative Study
Authors: Altan Can Okan , Kocatepe Demet , Çorapcı Bengünur , Köstekli Bayram , Turan Hülya
Published: March 2024

In this study, enzymatic [papain (P), bromelain (B), and A. oryzae-derived fungal protease (FP); enzyme ratios: 0.012 (v/v), 38 °C, 50 min] and non-enzymatic [control (C; saline), mineral water (95%)–lemon juice (5%) (ML) (1/2:w/v), 38 °C, 50 min)] tenderizing methods on European squid mantle (Loligo vulgaris Lamarck, 1798) were investigated. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) imaging, water holding capacity (WHC), cooking loss (CL), total free amino acids (TFAA), total soluble protein (TSP), hydroxyproline (Hyp), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analyses were performed on uncooked samples. pH, water activity (aw), color, nutritional changes, amino acids (AA), total volatile basic-nitrogen (TVB-N), Warner-Bratzler shear (WBS), texture profile analysis (TPA), and sensory evaluations were performed on both uncooked and cooked samples. A significant decrease in protein content was observed in group P (12.86%) compared to untreated (U) squid (15.16%). During frying, group P absorbed more cooking oil (8.37%) than the other groups. A higher degree of hydrolysis was observed in the enzymatically tenderized groups than in non-enzymatic groups, and a shift in secondary protein structures in favor of random coils. Hydrolysis was confirmed by Hyp and AA analyses. The total AA content order was found as B < P < FP < C < ML < U. ML and FP groups have relatively higher total bitter and umami AA compositions, especially in uncooked samples. FP and ML groups had more favorable results across all analyses, especially in terms of the sensory results, nutritional values, and TPA results of cooked samples. It is concluded that both methods are very convenient regarding industrial usage.
To what extent is the effect of sensory processing sensitivity on distress mediated by resilience? Putting the diathesis-stress model to the test in a sample of gifted adults
Authors: Gucht Veronique De , Woestenburg Dion H. A. , Backbier Esther
Published: March 2024

The purpose of this prospective study was to examine (a) whether Sensory Processing Sensitivity (SPS) measured at baseline (T0) predicts distress at one year follow-up (T1), and (b) whether and in what way resilience mediates the effect of SPS on distress. The study sample consisted of gifted adults. A total of 738 respondents participated in the study at T0 and T1 (mean age of 44.86; 63.4% female). Structural Equation Modeling and logistic regression analysis were conducted. A high level of SPS at T0 predicted psychological (anxiety and depression) and somatic (physical symptoms and fatigue) distress at T1. As far as indirect effects are concerned, results depended upon whether we looked at the negative or positive higher-order dimension of SPS. A higher score on negative SPS was associated with lower resilience which in turn led to more distress, indicating that low resilience increased the negative impact of negative SPS on distress. In contrast, a higher score on positive SPS was related to more resilience, resulting in less distress, suggesting that in this case resilience had a buffering effect. As resilience is a buffer between SPS and distress, follow-up research could focus on psychological interventions aimed at increasing resilience.
The Case Against Organoid Consciousness
Authors: Croxford James , Bayne Tim
Published: March 2024

Neural organoids are laboratory-generated entities that replicate certain structural and functional features of the human brain. Most neural organoids are disembodied—completely decoupled from sensory input and motor output. As such, questions about their potential capacity for consciousness are exceptionally difficult to answer. While not disputing the need for caution regarding certain neural organoid types, this paper appeals to two broad constraints on any adequate theory of consciousness—the first involving the dependence of consciousness on embodiment; the second involving the dependence of consciousness on representations—to argue that disembodied neural organoids are not plausible candidates for consciousness.
The Musculoskeletal Tumor Society Scoring system is a valid subjective and objective tool to evaluate outcomes of surgical treatment of patients affected by upper and lower extremity tumors
Authors: Rizzo A. , Paderno M. , Saccomanno M. F. , Milano F. , Milano G.
Published: March 2024

Purpose

The main purpose of the present study was to evaluate if there is a difference between objective or subjective administration of the MSTS score in a cohort of patients affected by musculoskeletal oncological diseases.

Materials and methods

All patients who underwent surgery for bone or soft tissue localization of neoplastic disease in lower or upper limb from June 2015 to June 2020 were considered eligible. In order to administer the score as a PROM, the MSTS was first translated and cross-culturally adapted in Italian. During follow up visits, all patients filled out Italian versions of SF36, TESS and MSTS. Psychometric properties of the Italian version of MSTS were analyzed. Correlation between objective and self-administered MSTS score was assessed through Pearson’s coefficient.

Results

A finale sample of 110 patients were included: 59 affected by lower extremity involvement and 51 affected by upper extremity involvement. The Italian version of the MSTS score showed good psychometric properties for both lower and upper extremity. The correlation between self-administered and hetero-administered version of the questionnaire was as high as r = 0.97 for lower extremities and r = 0.96 for upper extremities.

Conclusions

The Italian version of the MSTS is a valid tool to evaluate outcomes of surgical treatment of patients affected by extremities tumors and it can be used as a subjective tool for both lower and upper extremity.
Advancement of Analytical Model for Hydrophobic Rectangular Pillared Array on Al-Surface and Its Experimental Validation
Authors: Jaishree Sharma , Bhandari Anupam , Khatri Neha , Singh Bharpoor , Jangra Sahil , Husain Akmal , Kumar Avinash , Goyat M. S.
Published: March 2024

Over the past few decades, self-cleaning surfaces have been significantly investigated due to their commercial applications in various fields. However, the researchers are still lagging in developing better mathematical models and fabricating hydrophobic surfaces for direct espousal in industry. In this study, a force-balanced system-based mathematical model is modified for a rectangular pillared array-based micro-structure and MATLAB simulations were used to validate it theoretically. The same pattern was developed on Al-surface using a single-point diamond turning (SPDT) machine experimentally. The experimental results were validated using coherence correlation interferometry (CCI), optical microscopy, drop shape analyser (DSA), and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). The experimentally estimated and theoretically predicted contact angles of the rectangular pillared array are found in close agreement. Further, the advancement in mathematical models and models-based surface manufacturing strategies can boost the research in this domain to develop robust self-cleaning hydrophobic surfaces.
ENLIGHT (European Network for Light Ion Hadron Therapy) and its role in Hadron therapy
Authors: Georgieva Petya , Dosanjh Manjit
Published: March 2024

Purpose

This study provides a comprehensive overview of the progress in hadron therapy within Europe, particularly highlighting the critical roles of the Proton Ion Medical Machine Study (PIMMS) and
the European Network for Light Ion Hadron Therapy (ENLIGHT).

Methods

Our approach includes a retrospective analysis of the advances in hadron therapy facilities, facilitated by a synthesis of interdisciplinary collaboration data gathered from ENLIGHT's annual meetings since 2002, and an assessment of European-funded projects and networks' contributions to the field.

Results

The results showcase significant advancements in cancer treatment due to collective efforts in hadron therapy, underscored by ENLIGHT’s pivotal role in fostering interdisciplinary cooperation and the harmonization of treatment protocols across Europe.

Conclusion

The evolution of hadron therapy, from its inception to its current impact on patient care, demonstrates the successful realization of complex medical technologies through sustained collaboration and standardized practices across European institutions and projects.
Identification of a disulfidptosis-related lncRNA signature for the prognostic and immune landscape prediction in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Wei Zhengyu , Zhou Chongchang , Fang Yi , Deng Hongxia , Shen Zhisen
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Disulfidptosis, a newly identified form of cell death, is triggered by disulfide stress. Herein, a unique signature was developed based on disulfidptosis-related lncRNAs (DRlncRNAs) for the prognostic and immune landscape prediction of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC).

Methods

Transcriptome, somatic mutation, and clinical data were acquired at The Cancer Genome Atlas database. Individuals were partitioned into training and test cohorts at a 1:1 ratio to facilitate the development of a DRlncRNA signature using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operation method. Based on the median risk score, all HNSCC individuals were stratified into the high-risk group (HRG) and low-risk group (LRG). Kaplan–Meier survival and time-dependent receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses were used to estimate the prognostic value, and a nomogram was generated for survival prediction. To provide a more comprehensive assessment, the tumor microenvironment, functional enrichment, immune cell infiltration, and immunotherapeutic sensitivity were explored between LRG and HRG.

Results

A DRlncRNA signature was established with 10 DRlncRNAs. The corresponding values of areas under the ROC curves for 1–, 3–, and 5–year overall survival were 0.710, 0.692, and 0.640. A more favorable prognosis was noted in the patients with lower risk, along with higher immune scores, increased immune-related functions, and immune cell infiltration, as well as improved response to the immunotherapeutic intervention in comparison with individuals at higher risk.

Conclusion

These findings demonstrate that the developed DRlncRNA signature holds promise as a reliable prognostic marker and predictor of immunotherapy response in HNSCC patients.
Seasonal evaluation of heavy metals and zooplankton distribution and their co-relationship in the Rosetta branch area of the Nile Delta in Egypt
Authors: Younis Mai L. , Rizk El-Sayed T. E. , Elewa Shehata E. , M. Abo-Elfotouh Olfat , Mola Hesham R. A.
Published: March 2024

The River Nile is the artery of Egypt, as it presents more than 96% of the municipal, industrial, and irrigation necessities of Egypt. This study was dedicated to providing data about the effect of pollution at six stations on the River Nile at the Rosetta branch during the period from August 2019 to April 2020, using heavy metals analysis and zooplankton as biological indicators. It was found that the average of heavy metals concentration follows the descending order Al > Fe > Mn > Zn > Ni > Co. Most of the heavy metals recorded its highest values at El-Rahawy station. Zooplankton community was represented by 32 species in addition to 4 Meroplanktons. Five groups of zooplankton were recorded, viz. Rotifera (1717 org./L), Protozoa (552 org./L), Cladocera (54 org./L), Nematoda (46 org./L), and other Meroplankton (44 org./L), dominated by Rotifera followed by Protozoa, Cladocera, Nematoda, and other Meroplanktons contributing 71%, 23%, 2%, 2%, and 2%, respectively. The highest average density of total zooplankton was recorded during spring while the lowest was recorded during summer. The highest similarity of (79.12%) was observed between (Site 1) and (Site 5). Almost all diversity indices were conducted and showed its highest values in site 6. The principal component analysis conducted between heavy metals, and zooplankton showed a significant negative correlation was shown for the dominant zooplankton with the heavy metals except with cobalt. Nematoda and the rotifer Brachionus angularis recorded a positive correlation with heavy metals except cobalt.