bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Searching for Scalable Networks in Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Infrastructure Using Spatio-Attack Course-of-Action
Authors: Son Seok Bin , Kim Dong Hwa
Published: April 2023

Unmanned aerial vehicles are increasingly being applied to various applications for a variety purposes, such as delivery, communication relay, mapping, and surveillance services. Through these, it is possible to provide flexible and stable network services. Unmanned aerial vehicles perform a wide range of tasks using Internet-of-Things technology, which needs Internet access. These internet connections, however, make it more possible for attackers to execute various security attacks on unmanned aerial vehicles. Therefore, it is crucial to identify the attack behavior of the adversary, which is called “course-of-action”, to preserve security in the unmanned aerial vehicle infrastructure. Based on learned data, the existing course-of-action method has the drawback of not functioning on various networks. As a result, in this paper, we propose a novel heuristic search-based algorithm to apply to various unmanned aerial vehicle infrastructures. The algorithm can build the optimal heuristic functions in various unmanned aerial vehicle network environments to explore the attack course-of-action and design the optimal attack paths to maximize total reward. Applying the proposed algorithm in two unmanned aerial vehicle network scenarios allowed us to confirm that the best attack path is well established.
How Well Can We Infer Selection Benefits and Mutation Rates from Allele Frequencies?
Authors: Soriano Jonathan , Marzen Sarah
Published: April 2023

Experimentalists observe allele frequency distributions and try to infer mutation rates and selection coefficients. How easy is this? We calculate limits to their ability in the context of the Wright-Fisher model by first finding the maximal amount of information that can be acquired using allele frequencies about the mutation rate and selection coefficient– at least 2 bits per allele– and then by finding how the organisms would have shaped their mutation rates and selection coefficients so as to maximize the information transfer.
A New Three-Way Incremental Naive Bayes Classifier
Authors: Yang Zhiwei , Ren Jing , Zhang Zichi , Sun Yuqing , Zhang Chunying , Wang Mengyao , Wang Liya
Published: April 2023

Aiming at the problems of the dynamic increase in data in real life and that the naive Bayes (NB) classifier only accepts or rejects the sample processing results, resulting in a high error rate when dealing with uncertain data, this paper combines three-way decision and incremental learning, and a new three-way incremental naive Bayes classifier (3WD-INB) is proposed. First, the NB classifier is established, and the distribution fitting is carried out according to the minimum residual sum of squares (RSS) for continuous data, so that 3WD-INB can process both discrete data and continuous data, then carry out an incremental learning operation, select the samples with higher data quality according to the confidence of the samples in the incremental training set for incremental learning, solve the problem of data dynamics and filter the poor samples. Then we construct the 3WD-INB classifier and determine the classification rules of the positive, negative and boundary domains of the 3WD-INB classifier, so that the three-way classification of samples can be realized and better decisions can be made when dealing with uncertain data. Finally, five discrete data and five continuous data are selected for comparative experimental analysis with traditional classification methods. The results show that 3WD-INB has high accuracy and recall rate on different types of datasets, and the classification performance is also relatively stable.
Maximum Penetration Height and Intrusion Speed of Weak Symmetric Plane Fountains in Linearly Stratified Fluids
Authors: Inam Mohammad I. , Lin Wenxian , Armfield Steven W. , Khatamifar Mehdi
Published: April 2023

The flow behavior of weak symmetric plane fountains in linearly stratified fluids is studied numerically with three-dimensional simulations over a range of the Froude (Fr), Reynolds (Re), and stratification numbers (s). The two main parameters describing the fountain characterization are the dimensionless maximum fountain penetration height (zm) and intrusion velocity (uint), which differ significantly at different flow development stages. It was found that the stratification stabilizes the symmetry of the weak fountains, which makes the fountain become asymmetric at a larger Fr value, and zm at the fully developed stage continues to increase as a result of the intrusion, which continually changes the ambient fluid stratification features, thus the buoyant force. The evolution of intrusion experiences three distinct stages. Both Fr and s have effects on zm and uint, with the effect of Fr usually larger than that of s. The overall impacts of Fr and s can be quantified in terms of Frasb, with a and b varying for different parameters. With numerical results, empirical correlations are produced in terms of Frasb for each relevant parameter, which generally predict the results very well.
Subduction and Hydrogen Release: The Case of Bolivian Altiplano
Authors: Moretti Isabelle , Baby Patrice , Alvarez Zapata Paola , Mendoza Rosmar Villegas
Published: April 2023

Natural hydrogen is known to be generated in the crust by water/rock interactions, especially the oxidation of iron-rich rock or radiolysis. However, other sources, especially deeper ones, exist. In the context of subduction, the dehydration of the slab, the destabilization of the NH4, and the hydration of the mantle wedge above the subducting lithosphere may generate H2. We present here a compilation of the known gases in the central part of the Pacific subduction and the results of a first field acquisition dedicated to H2 measurements in Bolivia between La Paz and South Lipez. Various zones have been studied: the emerging thrust faults of the western borders of the Eastern Cordillera, the Sajama area that corresponds to the western volcanic zone near the Chile border northward from the Uyuni Salar, and finally, the Altiplano-Puna Volcanic Complex in South Lipez. Soil gas measurement within and around the Salar itself was not fully conclusive. North of the Uyuni Salar, the gases are very rich in CO2, enriched in N2 and poor in H2. On the opposite, southward, all the samples contain some H2; the major gas is nitrogen, which may overpass 90% after air correction, and the CO2 content is very limited. On the western border of the Cordillera, the δC13 isotope varies between −5 and −13‰, and it is not surprisingly compatible with volcanic gas, as well as with asthenospheric CO2. The methane content is close to 0, and only a few points reach 1%. The isotopes (−1‰) indicate an abiotic origin, and it is thus related to deep H2 presence. The high steam flow in the geothermal area of South Lipez combined with the H2 content in the water results in at least 1 ton of H2 currently released per day from each well and may deserve an evaluation of its economic value. The nitrogen content, as in other subduction or paleo-subduction areas, questions the slab alteration.
Preserving Intangible Heritage through Tangible Finds: The “Skull with Ears”—St. Luciella ai Librai’s Church (Naples, Italy)
Authors: Macchia Andrea , Montorsi Stefania , Salatino Giorgia , Albini Romana , Cerilli Eugenio , Biribicchi Chiara , Faella Massimo , Rogliani Angela , de Caro Tilde , Lubritto Carmine , Vetromile Carmela , Di Cicco Maria Rosa , Ambrosini Andrea , Sperduti Alessandra
Published: April 2023

The present study reports the conservative first aid concerning the human cranium known as the “Skull with Ears”, which is conserved in the crypt of Santa Luciella ai Librai’s church in Naples, Italy. These remains have historically been worshipped by devotees within the cult of the “abandoned souls”. The skulls were “adopted” by the Neapolitan population and treated with particular care in exchange for divine favors. The critical preservation status of the “Skull with ears” required a multidisciplinary approach aimed at defining the taphonomy and anthropological features of the cranium, while determining the state of its conservation by using a multi-analytical approach. Multispectral imaging, 3D modeling, X-ray imaging, microscopical observations, and microbiological tests enabled the documentation of the cranium while assessing this state of conservation. Electron scanning microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) in the attenuated total reflectance (ATR) mode, and radiocarbon dating allowed for essential data to be obtained on the cranium’s history and constituent components. The results that were obtained from both the analysis of the cranium and the environmental monitoring of the crypt showed the advanced degradation of the bones due to a significant bacterial attack, which was facilitated by the inadequate environmental conditions at the site of conservation. The acquired data enabled the definition of the most suitable conservation strategy and the securing of the cranium.
Local Microtubule and F-Actin Distributions Fully Constrain the Spatial Geometry of Drosophila Sensory Dendritic Arbors
Authors: Nanda Sumit , Bhattacharjee Shatabdi , Cox Daniel N. , Ascoli Giorgio A.
Published: April 2023

Dendritic morphology underlies the source and processing of neuronal signal inputs. Morphology can be broadly described by two types of geometric characteristics. The first is dendrogram topology, defined by the length and frequency of the arbor branches; the second is spatial embedding, mainly determined by branch angles and straightness. We have previously demonstrated that microtubules and actin filaments are associated with arbor elongation and branching, fully constraining dendrogram topology. Here, we relate the local distribution of these two primary cytoskeletal components with dendritic spatial embedding. We first reconstruct and analyze 167 sensory neurons from the Drosophila larva encompassing multiple cell classes and genotypes. We observe that branches with a higher microtubule concentration tend to deviate less from the direction of their parent branch across all neuron types. Higher microtubule branches are also overall straighter. F-actin displays a similar effect on angular deviation and branch straightness, but not as consistently across all neuron types as microtubule. These observations raise the question as to whether the associations between cytoskeletal distributions and arbor geometry are sufficient constraints to reproduce type-specific dendritic architecture. Therefore, we create a computational model of dendritic morphology purely constrained by the cytoskeletal composition measured from real neurons. The model quantitatively captures both spatial embedding and dendrogram topology across all tested neuron groups. These results suggest a common developmental mechanism regulating diverse morphologies, where the local cytoskeletal distribution can fully specify the overall emergent geometry of dendritic arbors.
Unveiling the Differences in Signaling and Regulatory Mechanisms between Dopamine D2 and D3 Receptors and Their Impact on Behavioral Sensitization
Authors: Kim Kyeong-Man
Published: April 2023

Dopamine receptors are classified into five subtypes, with D2R and D3R playing a crucial role in regulating mood, motivation, reward, and movement. Whereas D2R are distributed widely across the brain, including regions responsible for motor functions, D3R are primarily found in specific areas related to cognitive and emotional functions, such as the nucleus accumbens, limbic system, and prefrontal cortex. Despite their high sequence homology and similar signaling pathways, D2R and D3R have distinct regulatory properties involving desensitization, endocytosis, posttranslational modification, and interactions with other cellular components. In vivo, D3R is closely associated with behavioral sensitization, which leads to increased dopaminergic responses. Behavioral sensitization is believed to result from D3R desensitization, which removes the inhibitory effect of D3R on related behaviors. Whereas D2R maintains continuous signal transduction through agonist-induced receptor phosphorylation, arrestin recruitment, and endocytosis, which recycle and resensitize desensitized receptors, D3R rarely undergoes agonist-induced endocytosis and instead is desensitized after repeated agonist exposure. In addition, D3R undergoes more extensive posttranslational modifications, such as glycosylation and palmitoylation, which are needed for its desensitization. Overall, a series of biochemical settings more closely related to D3R could be linked to D3R-mediated behavioral sensitization.
A Guide to Perform 3D Histology of Biological Tissues with Fluorescence Microscopy
Authors: Laurino Annunziatina , Franceschini Alessandra , Pesce Luca , Cinci Lorenzo , Montalbano Alberto , Mazzamuto Giacomo , Sancataldo Giuseppe , Nesi Gabriella , Costantini Irene , Silvestri Ludovico , Pavone Francesco Saverio
Published: April 2023

The analysis of histological alterations in all types of tissue is of primary importance in pathology for highly accurate and robust diagnosis. Recent advances in tissue clearing and fluorescence microscopy made the study of the anatomy of biological tissue possible in three dimensions. The combination of these techniques with classical hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining has led to the birth of three-dimensional (3D) histology. Here, we present an overview of the state-of-the-art methods, highlighting the optimal combinations of different clearing methods and advanced fluorescence microscopy techniques for the investigation of all types of biological tissues. We employed fluorescence nuclear and eosin Y staining that enabled us to obtain hematoxylin and eosin pseudo-coloring comparable with the gold standard H&E analysis. The computational reconstructions obtained with 3D optical imaging can be analyzed by a pathologist without any specific training in volumetric microscopy, paving the way for new biomedical applications in clinical pathology.
Micro RNAs and Circular RNAs in Different Forms of Otitis Media
Authors: Kotowski Michal , Adamczyk Paulina , Szydlowski Jaroslaw
Published: April 2023

The aim of this comprehensive review was to present the current knowledge on the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in acute, recurrent, and chronic forms of otitis media. Special attention was focused on cholesteatoma of the middle ear. MicroRNAs modulate gene expression, which, in turn, influences the development and likelihood of the recurrence of acute and aggressive chronic middle ear inflammatory processes. Moreover, this study discusses the modulating role of a specific subgroup of noncoding RNA, circular RNA (circRNA). Recognizing the precise potential pathways and the mechanisms of their function may contribute to a better understanding of the molecular bases of middle ear diseases and identifying novel methods for treating this demanding pathology. Articles published between 2009 and 2022 were used in this analysis. In this review, we provide a complete overview of the latest progress in identifying the role and mechanisms of particular miRNAs and circRNAs in acute, recurrent and chronic forms of otitis media.
Extracellular Vesicles as Potential Bladder Cancer Biomarkers: Take It or Leave It?
Authors: Teixeira-Marques Ana , Lourenço Catarina , Oliveira Miguel Carlos , Henrique Rui , Jerónimo Carmen
Published: April 2023

Bladder cancer (BC) is the 10th most frequently diagnosed cancer worldwide. Although urine cytology and cystoscopy are current standards for BC diagnosis, both have limited sensitivity to detect low-grade and small tumors. Moreover, effective prognostic biomarkers are lacking. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are lipidic particles that contain nucleic acids, proteins, and metabolites, which are released by cells into the extracellular space, being crucial effectors in intercellular communication. These particles have emerged as potential tools carrying biomarkers for either diagnosis or prognosis in liquid biopsies namely urine, plasma, and serum. Herein, we review the potential of liquid biopsies EVs’ cargo as BC diagnosis and prognosis biomarkers. Additionally, we address the emerging advantages and downsides of using EVs within this framework.
Sirtuin 6 Regulates the Activation of the ATP/Purinergic Axis in Endothelial Cells
Authors: Astigiano Cecilia , Piacente Francesco , Laugieri Maria Elena , Benzi Andrea , Di Buduo Christian A. , Miguel Carolina P. , Soncini Debora , Cea Michele , Antonelli Antonella , Magnani Mauro , Balduini Alessandra , De Flora Antonio , Bruzzone Santina
Published: April 2023

Sirtuin 6 (SIRT6) is a member of the mammalian NAD+-dependent deac(et)ylase sirtuin family. SIRT6’s anti-inflammatory roles are emerging increasingly often in different diseases and cell types, including endothelial cells. In this study, the role of SIRT6 in pro-inflammatory conditions was investigated by engineering human umbilical vein endothelial cells to overexpress SIRT6 (SIRT6+ HUVECs). Our results showed that SIRT6 overexpression affected the levels of adhesion molecules and sustained megakaryocyte proliferation and proplatelet formation. Interestingly, the pro-inflammatory activation of the ATP/purinergic axis was reduced in SIRT6+ HUVECs. Specifically, the TNFα-induced release of ATP in the extracellular space and the increase in pannexin-1 hemichannel expression, which mediates ATP efflux, were hampered in SIRT6+ cells. Instead, NAD+ release and Connexin43 expression were not modified by SIRT6 levels. Moreover, the Ca2+ influx in response to ATP and the expression of the purinergic receptor P2X7 were decreased in SIRT6+ HUVECs. Contrary to extracellular ATP, extracellular NAD+ did not evoke pro-inflammatory responses in HUVECs. Instead, NAD+ administration reduced endothelial cell proliferation and motility and counteracted the TNFα-induced angiogenesis. Altogether, our data reinforce the view of SIRT6 activation as an anti-inflammatory approach in vascular endothelium.
Spontaneous Bone Marrow Edema: Perfusion Abnormalities and Treatment with Surgical Decompression
Authors: Littman Jake , Gil Holly , Aaron Roy
Published: April 2023

Bone marrow edema (BME), also termed bone marrow lesions, is a syndrome characterized by bone pain and the appearance of high signal intensity on T2 fat-suppressed and short tau inversion recovery (STIR) MRI sequences. BME can be related to trauma or a variety of non-traumatic diseases, and current treatment modalities include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), bisphosphonates, denosumab, extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT), the vasoactive prostacyclin analogue iloprost, and surgical decompression. Spontaneous BME is a subset that has been observed with no apparent causative conditions. It is most likely caused by venous outflow obstruction and intraosseous hypertension. These are mechanistically related to impaired perfusion and ischemia in several models of BME and are related to bone remodeling. The association of perfusion abnormalities and bone pain provides the pathophysiological rationale for surgical decompression. We present a case of spontaneous BME and a second case of spontaneous migratory BME treated with surgical decompression and demonstrate resolution of pain and the high signal intensity on MRI. This report provides an integration of the clinical syndrome, MR imaging characteristics, circulatory pathophysiology, and treatment. It draws upon several studies to suggest that both the bone pain and the MRI characteristics are related to venous stasis, and when circulatory pathologies are relieved by decompression or fenestration, both the bone pain and the MRI signal abnormalities resolve.
Bioglues Based on an Elastin-Like Recombinamer: Effect of Tannic Acid as an Additive on Tissue Adhesion and Cytocompatibility
Authors: Sarisoy Alp , Acosta Sergio , Rodríguez-Cabello José Carlos , Czichowski Phillip , Kopp Alexander , Jockenhoevel Stefan , Fernández-Colino Alicia
Published: April 2023

More than 260 million surgical procedures are performed worldwide each year. Although sutures and staples are widely used to reconnect tissues, they can cause further damage and increase the risk of infection. Bioadhesives have been proposed as an alternative to reconnect tissues. However, clinical adhesives that combine strong adhesion with cytocompatibility have yet to be developed. In this study, we explored the production of adhesives based on protein-engineered polymers bioinspired by the sequence of elastin (i.e., elastin-like recombinamers, ELRs). We hypothesized that the combination of polyphenols (i.e., tannic acid, TA) and ELRs would produce an adhesive coacervate (ELR+TA), as reported for other protein polymers such as silk fibroin (SF). Notably, the adhesion of ELR alone surpassed that of ELR+TA. Indeed, ELR alone achieved adhesive strengths of 88.8 ± 33.2 kPa and 17.0 ± 2.0 kPa on porcine bone and skin tissues, respectively. This surprising result led us to explore a multicomponent bioadhesive to encompass the complementary roles of elastin (mimicked here by ELR) and silk fibroin (SF), and subsequently mirror more closely the multicomponent nature of the extracellular matrix. Tensile testing showed that ELR+SF achieved an adhesive strength of 123.3 ± 60.2 kPa on porcine bone and excellent cytocompatibility. To express this in a more visual and intuitive way, a small surface of only 2.5 cm2 was able to lift at least 2 kg of weight. This opens the door for further studies focusing on the ability of protein-engineered polymers to adhere to biological tissues without further chemical modification for applications in tissue engineering.
Progress of Research on the Physiology and Molecular Regulation of Sorghum Growth under Salt Stress by Gibberellin
Authors: Liu Jiao , Wu Yanqing , Dong Guichun , Zhu Guanglong , Zhou Guisheng
Published: April 2023

Plant growth often encounters diverse abiotic stresses. As a global resource-based ecological problem, salinity is widely distributed and one of the major abiotic stresses affecting crop yields worldwide. Sorghum, a cereal crop with medium salt tolerance and great value for the development and utilization of salted soils, is an important source of food, brewing, energy, and forage production. However, in soils with high salt concentrations, sorghum experiences low emergence and suppressed metabolism. It has been demonstrated that the effects of salt stress on germination and seedling growth can be effectively mitigated to a certain extent by the exogenous amendment of hormonal gibberellin (GA). At present, most of the studies on sorghum salt tolerance at home and abroad focus on morphological and physiological levels, including the transcriptome analysis of the exogenous hormone on sorghum salt stress tolerance, the salt tolerance metabolism pathway, and the mining of key salt tolerance regulation genes. The high-throughput sequencing technology is increasingly widely used in the study of crop resistance, which is of great significance to the study of plant resistance gene excavation and mechanism. In this study, we aimed to review the effects of the exogenous hormone GA on leaf morphological traits of sorghum seedlings and further analyze the physiological response of sorghum seedling leaves and the regulation of sorghum growth and development. This review not only focuses on the role of GA but also explores the signal transduction pathways of GA and the performance of their responsive genes under salt stress, thus helping to further clarify the mechanism of regulating growth and production under salt stress. This will serve as a reference for the molecular discovery of key genes related to salt stress and the development of new sorghum varieties.
The Fraser Complex Proteins (Frem1, Frem2, and Fras1) Can Form Anchoring Cords in the Absence of AMACO at the Dermal–Epidermal Junction of Mouse Skin
Authors: Esho Temitope , Kobbe Birgit , Tufa Sara , Keene Douglas , Paulsson Mats , Wagener Raimund
Published: April 2023

AMACO (VWA2 protein), secreted by epithelial cells, is strongly expressed at basement membranes when budding or invagination occurs in embryos. In skin, AMACO associates with proteins of the Fraser complex, which form anchoring cords. These, during development, temporally stabilize the dermal–epidermal junction, pending the formation of collagen VII-containing anchoring fibrils. Fraser syndrome in humans results if any of the core members of the Fraser complex (Fras1, Frem1, Frem2) are mutated. Fraser syndrome is characterized by subepidermal blistering, cryptophthalmos, and syndactyly. In an attempt to determine AMACO function, we generated and characterized AMACO-deficient mice. In contrast to Fraser complex mutant mice, AMACO-deficient animals lack an obvious phenotype. The mutually interdependent basement membrane deposition of the Fraser complex proteins, and the formation of anchoring cords, are not affected. Furthermore, hair follicle development in newborn AMACO-deficient mice showed no gross aberration. Surprisingly, it appears that, while AMACO is a component of the anchoring cords, it is not essential for their formation or function.
A Clinical Psychological View about Delusional Characterizations in Subjects with Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorder during the COVID-19 Period
Authors: Maglia Marilena , Signorelli Maria Salvina , Petralia Antonino , Verduzzo Idria , Carmen Concerto , Rodolico Alessandro , Di Piazza Jennifer , Caponnetto Pasquale
Published: April 2023

(Background) The period experienced during the COVID-19 virus and the respective social regulations associated with it caused enormous psychosocial stress. (Objective) The objective of the present work was to observe whether the lived period induced a change in delusional characterizations in subjects with schizophrenia spectrum disorder. (Methods) A systematic literature review was conducted following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines for systematic reviews of the PRISMA GROUP. The literature search was conducted from November 2021 to May 2022, using various scientific platforms including PubMed. (Results) A total of 865 articles were found, from which 176 duplicates were removed. The remaining articles were reviewed by reading the titles and abstracts; fourteen were included. (Conclusions) During this research, it was possible to confirm the initial thesis, namely that delirium absorbs external reality by being modified by it. It was observed that the speed of absorption is estimated to be directly proportional to the speed of the modification of social reality and to the impact that the latter has on the subject’s private sphere. Moreover, the situation of radical change represented a condition of abnormal psychosocial stress, which led to an increase in diagnoses of schizophrenia spectrum disorders and, specifically, a weighty increase in diagnoses of brief psychotic disorder (BDP). In the coming years, it is estimated that there will be an increase in diagnoses of schizophrenia spectrum disorder caused by both environmental and biological factors.
Osteomalacia in Adults: A Practical Insight for Clinicians
Authors: Arboleya Luis , Braña Ignacio , Pardo Estefanía , Loredo Marta , Queiro Rubén
Published: April 2023

The term osteomalacia (OM) refers to a series of processes characterized by altered mineralization of the skeleton, which can be caused by various disorders of mineral metabolism. OM can be genetically determined or occur due to acquired disorders, among which the nutritional origin is particularly relevant, due to its wide epidemiological extension and its nature as a preventable disease. Among the hereditary diseases associated with OM, the most relevant is X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH), which manifests in childhood, although its consequences persist into adulthood where it can acquire specific clinical characteristics, and, although rare, there are XLH cases that reach the third or fourth decade of life without a diagnosis. Some forms of OM present very subtle initial manifestations which cause both considerable diagnosis and treatment delay. On occasions, the presence of osteopenia and fragility fractures leads to an erroneous diagnosis of osteoporosis, which may imply the prescription of antiresorptive drugs (i.e., bisphosphonates or denosumab) with catastrophic consequences for OM bone. On the other hand, some radiological features of OM can be confused with those of axial spondyloarthritis and lead to erroneous diagnoses. The current prevalence of OM is not known and is very likely that its incidence is much higher than previously thought. Moreover, OM explains part of the therapeutic failures that occur in patients diagnosed with other bone diseases. Therefore, it is essential that clinicians who treat adult skeletal diseases take into account the considerations provided in this practical review when focusing on the diagnosis and treatment of their patients with bone diseases.
Comparison of Lactate Clearance with Established Risk Assessment Tools in Predicting Outcomes in Acute Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding
Authors: Allo Gabriel , Gillessen Johannes , Gülcicegi Dilan , Kasper Philipp , Chon Seung-Hun , Goeser Tobias , Bürger Martin
Published: April 2023

Early risk stratification is mandatory in acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding (AUGIB) to guide optimal treatment. Numerous risk scores were introduced, but lack of practicability led to limited use in daily clinical practice. Lactate clearance is an established risk assessment tool in a variety of diseases, such as trauma and sepsis. Therefore, this study compares the predictive ability of pre-endoscopic lactate clearance and established risk scores in patients with AUGIB at the University Hospital of Cologne. Active bleeding was detected in 27 (25.2%) patients, and hemostatic intervention was performed in 35 (32.7%). In total, 16 patients (15%) experienced rebleeding and 12 (11.2%) died. Initially, lactate levels were elevated in 64 cases (59.8%), and the median lactate clearance was 18.7% (2.7–48.2%). Regarding the need for endoscopic intervention, the predictive ability of Glasgow Blatchford Score, pre-endoscopic Rockall score, initial lactate and lactate clearance did not differ significantly, and their area under the receiver operating characteristic curves were 0.658 (0.560–0.747), 0.572 (0.473–0.667), 0.572 (0.473–0.667) and 0.583 (0.483–0.677), respectively. Similar results were observed in relation to rebleeding and mortality. In conclusion, lactate clearance had comparable predictive ability compared to established risk scores. Further prospective research is necessary to clarify the potential role of lactate clearance as a reliable risk assessment tool in AUGIB.
Developing PMMA/Coffee Husk Green Composites to Meet the Individual Requirements of People with Disabilities: Hip Spacer Case Study
Authors: Fouly Ahmed , Alnaser Ibrahim A. , Assaifan Abdulaziz K. , Abdo Hany S.
Published: April 2023

When replacing a damaged artificial hip joint, treatment involves using antibiotic-laced bone cement as a spacer. One of the most popular materials used for spacers is PMMA; however, it has limitations in terms of mechanical and tribological properties. To overcome such limitations, the current paper proposes utilizing a natural filler, coffee husk, as a reinforcement for PMMA. The coffee husk filler was first prepared using the ball-milling technique. PMMA composites with varying weight fractions of coffee husk (0, 2, 4, 6, and 8 wt.%) were prepared. The hardness was measured to estimate the mechanical properties of the produced composites, and the compression test was utilized to estimate the Young modulus and compressive yield strength. Furthermore, the tribological properties of the composites were evaluated by measuring the friction coefficient and wear by rubbing the composite samples against stainless steel and cow bone counterparts under different normal loads. The wear mechanisms were identified via scanning electron microscopy. Finally, a finite element model for the hip joint was built to investigate the load-carrying capacity of the composites under human loading conditions. The results show that incorporating coffee husk particles can enhance both the mechanical and tribological properties of the PMMA composites. The finite element results are consistent with the experimental findings, indicating the potential of the coffee husk as a promising filler material for enhancing the performance of PMMA-based biomaterials.
Precision Medicines for Retinal Lipid Metabolism-Related Pathologies
Authors: Ana Raquel da , Gliszczyńska Anna , Sanchez-Lopez Elena , Garcia Maria L. , Krambeck Karolline , Kovacevic Andjelka , Souto Eliana B.
Published: April 2023

Oxidation of lipids and lipoproteins contributes to inflammation processes that promote the development of eye diseases. This is a consequence of metabolism dysregulation; for instance, that of the dysfunctional peroxisomal lipid metabolism. Dysfunction of lipid peroxidation is a critical factor in oxidative stress that causes ROS-induced cell damage. Targeting the lipid metabolism to treat ocular diseases is an interesting and effective approach that is now being considered. Indeed, among ocular structures, retina is a fundamental tissue that shows high metabolism. Lipids and glucose are fuel substrates for photoreceptor mitochondria; therefore, retina is rich in lipids, especially phospholipids and cholesterol. The imbalance in cholesterol homeostasis and lipid accumulation in the human Bruch’s membrane are processes related to ocular diseases, such as AMD. In fact, preclinical tests are being performed in mice models with AMD, making this area a promising field. Nanotechnology, on the other hand, offers the opportunity to develop site-specific drug delivery systems to ocular tissues for the treatment of eye diseases. Specially, biodegradable nanoparticles constitute an interesting approach to treating metabolic eye-related pathologies. Among several drug delivery systems, lipid nanoparticles show attractive properties, e.g., no toxicological risk, easy scale-up and increased bioavailability of the loaded active compounds. This review analyses the mechanisms involved in ocular dyslipidemia, as well as their ocular manifestations. Moreover, active compounds as well as drug delivery systems which aim to target retinal lipid metabolism-related diseases are thoroughly discussed.
Kidney Biopsy in a Patient with Cardiorenal Metabolic Syndrome—How to Interpret Histopathology
Authors: Zakharova Elena , Vorobyeva Olga
Published: April 2023

The components of Cardiorenal Metabolic Syndrome (CRMS) include central obesity, insulin resistance, hypertension, metabolic dyslipidemia, proteinuria, and/or reduced glomerular filtration rate. Kidney biopsy is rarely performed in patients with CRMS; histopathology findings include glomerulopathy, podocytopathy, mesangial expansion and proliferation, glomerular basement thickening, global and segmental sclerosis, interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy, and arterial sclerosis and hyalinosis. We report a case of CRMS with slow progression during 10 years of follow-up on chronic kidney disease (CKD). The middle-aged patient had central obesity, hypertension, dyslipidemia, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes mellitus, proteinuria, and CKD stage G3b-G4. Kidney biopsy, performed 3 years after the first presentation, led to the diagnosis of chronic thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) and complement-associated glomerulopathy. This was not compatible with the medical history and the course of the disease, and previous kidney biopsy review showed metabolic nephropathy with glomerulomegaly, global and segmental glomerulosclerosis, tubular atrophy and interstitial fibrosis, arteriosclerosis, and lipid embolus in the lumen of one artery, and found neither TMA features nor C3 deposition. The reported case demonstrates the importance of an accurate and thoughtful reading and interpretation of kidney biopsy, and stresses that disregarding medical history may potentially mislead and alter the understanding of the true cause of CKD.
Managing the Conflict of Human–Wildlife Coexistence: A Community-Based Approach
Authors: Tampakis Stilianos , Andrea Veronika , Panagopoulos Thomas , Karanikola Paraskevi , Gkarmiri Rallou , Georgoula Theodora
Published: April 2023

One of the most recent and pressing issues for policymakers to address is the presence of wild boars in urban and rural areas. Their aggressive spread and invasion of human-populated areas have created an alarming problem as the coexistence of wild boars and people poses serious threats to human life and property. Human-caused factors, such as residential zone expansion and land use change, have exacerbated this problem. Furthermore, natural factors, such as predator reduction and climate change effects, create favorable conditions for population growth. This study sought to gain insights into citizens’ perspectives on a current issue, specifically wild boar colonization and coexistence in urban and rural settings. Between September 2021 and November 2022, a survey was conducted in two communities of northern and central Greece, addressing 800 citizens in total. Obtained through hierarchical log-linear analysis, factor analysis and two-step cluster analysis, the findings indicate that rural citizens appear to be more concerned about agricultural production losses and the high risk of road accidents, while the invasion-level perception was high in both areas. Intensive hunting has gained widespread acceptance as a management tool for wild boar populations in both urban and rural areas, while anthropocentric (EGO) and ecocentric (ECO) social groups have emerged.
Predictors of Readmission after the First Acute Coronary Syndrome and the Risk of Recurrent Cardiovascular Events—Seven Years of Patient Follow-Up
Authors: Bustea Cristiana , Tit Delia Mirela , Bungau Alexa Florina , Bungau Simona Gabriela , Pantea Vlad Alin , Babes Elena Emilia , Pantea-Roșan Larisa Renata
Published: April 2023

Recurrent hospitalization after acute coronary syndromes (ACS) is common. Identifying risk factors associated with subsequent cardiovascular events and hospitalization is essential for the management of these patients. Our research consisted in observing the outcomes of subjects after they suffered an acute coronary event and identifying the factors that can predict rehospitalization in the first 12 months and the recurrence of another acute coronary episode. Data from 362 patients admitted with ACS during 2013 were studied. Recurrent hospitalizations were retrospectively reviewed from medical charts and electronic hospital archives over a period of seven years. The mean age of the studied population was 64.57 ± 11.79 years, 64.36% of them being males. The diagnosis of ACS without ST elevation was registered in 53.87% of the patients at index hospitalization. More than half had recurrent hospitalization in the first year after the first ACS episode. Patients with lower ejection fraction (39.20 ± 6.85 vs. 42.24 ± 6.26, p < 0.001), acute pulmonary edema during the first hospitalization (6.47% vs. 1.24%, p = 0.022), coexistent valvular heart disease (69.15% vs. 55.90%, p = 0.017), and three-vessel disease (18.90% vs. 7.45%, p = 0.002) were more frequently readmitted in the following twelve months after their first acute coronary event, while those with complete revascularization were less frequently admitted (24.87% vs. 34.78%, p = 0.005). In multiple regression, complete revascularization during the index event (HR = 0.58, 95% CI 0.35–0.95, p = 0.03) and a higher LVEF (left ventricular ejection fraction) (HR = 0.95, 95% CI 0.92–0.988, p = 0.009) remained independent predictors of fewer early readmissions. Complete revascularization of the coronary lesions at the time of the first event and a preserved LVEF were found to be the predictors of reduced hospitalizations in the first year after an acute coronary event.
Polyelectrolyte Coatings—A Viable Approach for Cultural Heritage Protection
Authors: Gîfu Ioana Cătălina , Ianchiș Raluca , Nistor Cristina Lavinia , Petcu Cristian , Fierascu Irina , Fierascu Radu Claudiu
Published: April 2023

The continuous degradation of cultural heritage artifacts (due to different factors, including the rising air pollution, climate change or excessive biological activity, among others) requires the continuous development of protection strategies, technologies and materials. In this regard, polyelectrolytes have offered effective ways to fight against degradation but also to conserve the cultural heritage objects. In this review, we highlight the key developments in the creation and use of polyelectrolytes for the preservation, consolidation and cleaning of the cultural heritage artifacts (with particular focus on stone, metal and artifacts of organic nature, such as paper, leather, wood or textile). The state of the art in this area is presented, as well as future development perspectives.
Crystalline–Amorphous Nanostructures: Microstructure, Property and Modelling
Authors: Wei Bingqiang , Li Lin , Shao Lin , Wang Jian
Published: April 2023

Crystalline metals generally exhibit good deformability but low strength and poor irradiation tolerance. Amorphous materials in general display poor deformability but high strength and good irradiation tolerance. Interestingly, refining characteristic size can enhance the flow strength of crystalline metals and the deformability of amorphous materials. Thus, crystalline–amorphous nanostructures can exhibit an enhanced strength and an improved plastic flow stability. In addition, high-density interfaces can trap radiation-induced defects and accommodate free volume fluctuation. In this article, we review crystalline–amorphous nanocomposites with characteristic microstructures including nanolaminates, core–shell microstructures, and crystalline/amorphous-based dual-phase nanocomposites. The focus is put on synthesis of characteristic microstructures, deformation behaviors, and multiscale materials modelling.
Thermal Behavior of Polymeric and Other Advanced Materials
Authors: Maciejewska Małgorzata , Rogulska Magdalena
Published: April 2023

Thermal Behavior of Polymeric and Other Advanced Materials is a recently open Special Issue in Materials, which aims to publish original articles, short communications, reviews, and mini-reviews covering the most recent progress in multiple thermal characterizations of diverse materials and provide a platform for scientists from various areas to present their research [...]
Improved Photopyroelectric (PPE) Configuration for Thermal Effusivity Investigations of Porous Solids
Authors: Tripon Carmen , Swapna Mohanachandran Nair Sindhu , Cobirzan Nicoleta , Korte Dorota , Gutt Robert , Bojan Marcel , Franko Mladen , Dadarlat Dorin
Published: April 2023

A new photopyroelectric detection configuration is proposed in order to measure the thermal effusivity of porous solids. Compared with the previously reported detection scheme this configuration makes use of a transparent window in front of the pyroelectric sensor. In such a way, the heat losses by convection at the sensor’s irradiated surface are eliminated, and consequently, the conduction remains the only process responsible for the heat propagation in the whole detection cell. In the paper, the mathematical model for this new configuration is developed, with the main conclusion that the sample’s thermal effusivity can be finally obtained via a fitting procedure with only two fitting parameters (instead of three as previously reported); in such a way, the possible degeneracy of the results is eliminated. The suitability of the method is demonstrated with application on some porous building materials and cellulose-based pressed powders.
Synthesis, Microstructure Investigation, Mechanical and Tribological Behaviour of the AA5083–WC Composite
Authors: Ammar Hany R. , Sivasankaran Subbarayan , Sherif El-Sayed M. , Almufadi Fahad A. , Mekky Abdel-baset H.
Published: April 2023

In this study, AA5083–WC composites were developed by ball milling followed by hot consolidation. The microstructures of the developed composites were investigated using XRD, SEM, EDX, and EBSD. The developed composites exhibited a homogeneous dispersion of WC particulates in the AA5083 matrix without any interactions at the matrix/reinforcement interface. The results confirmed the development of a refined equiaxed grain structure of AA5083–WC composites where the EBSD results revealed an average grain size of 4.38 µm and 3.32 µm for AA5083–6%WC (AW-6) and AA5083–12%WC (AW-12) composites, respectively. The results showed that incorporating WC particulates in the AA5083 alloy matrix significantly improved the compressive stress–strain behaviour and considerably enhanced the resistance to wear and friction. The AA5083–12%WC (AW-12) composite displayed the maximum strength and the highest resistance to wear and friction, whereas the as-milled AA5083 alloy (AW-0) exhibited the lowest strength and the least resistance to wear and friction. The AA5083–12%WC (AW-12) composite exhibited the optimum mechanical and tribological behaviour of the developed composites, making it a promising candidate for tribological applications.
Cometal Addition Effect on Superconducting Properties and Granular Behaviours of Polycrystalline FeSe0.5Te0.5
Authors: Manasa Manasa , Azam Mohammad , Zajarniuk Tatiana , Diduszko Ryszard , Cetner Tomasz , Morawski Andrzej , Wiśniewski Andrzej , Singh Shiv J.
Published: April 2023

The enhanced performance of superconducting FeSe0.5Te0.5 materials with added micro-sized Pb and Sn particles is presented. A series of Pb- and Sn-added FeSe0.5Te0.5 (FeSe0.5Te0.5 + xPb + ySn; x = y = 0–0.1) bulks are fabricated by the solid-state reaction method and characterized through various measurements. A very small amount of Sn and Pb additions (x = y ≤ 0.02) enhance the transition temperature (Tconset) of pure FeSe0.5Te0.5 by ~1 K, sharpening the superconducting transition and improving the metallic nature in the normal state, whereas larger metal additions (x = y ≥ 0.03) reduce Tconset by broadening the superconducting transition. Microstructural analysis and transport studies suggest that at x = y > 0.02, Pb and Sn additions enhance the impurity phases, reduce the coupling between grains, and suppress the superconducting percolation, leading to a broad transition. FeSe0.5Te0.5 samples with 2 wt% of cometal additions show the best performance with their critical current density, Jc, and the pinning force, Fp, which might be attributable to providing effective flux pinning centres. Our study shows that the inclusion of a relatively small amount of Pb and Sn (x = y ≤ 0.02) works effectively for the enhancement of superconducting properties with an improvement of intergrain connections as well as better phase uniformity.