bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anti-Phosphatidylserine, Anti-Prothrombin, and Anti-Annexin V Autoantibodies in Antiphospholipid Syndrome: A Real-Life Study
Authors: Roselli Daniele , Bonifacio Maria , Barbuti Giovanna , Rossiello Maria , Ranieri Prudenza , Mariggiò Maria
Published: July 2023

The antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) increase the risk of developing thrombotic events and may coexist with a variety of autoimmune diseases. They can be detected chronically or temporarily in patients with infectious diseases, during drug therapy, or in cases of cancer. A thrombotic event with aPL detection is known as antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) and the diagnostic criteria include the presence of lupus anticoagulant (LA), anticardiolipin (aCL) and β2-glycoprotein-1(aβ2GPI) antibodies. Other autoantigens recognized in APS are phosphatidylserine (aPS), prothrombin (aPT) and Annexin-5 (aA5). This real life study aimed to explore the connections between laboratory criteria and the prevalence of “non-criteria aPL” in APS. This study followed 300 patients with thrombosis and employed two phospholipid sensitivity assays for LA detection, chemiluminescence assays for aCL and aβ2GPI and enzyme-linked immunoassays for aPS, aPT and aA5. A significant association was found between aPS and aCL (r = 0.76) as well as aβ2GPI (r = 0.77), while the association with LA was less significant (r = 0.33). The results of the aPT and aA5 test did not correlate with criteria-antiphospholipid antibodies (r < 0.30). Since the risk of thrombotic complications increases with the intensity and the number of positive autoantibodies, measuring aPT and aA5 autoantibodies may be useful, particularly in aCL/aβ2GPI-negative patients or in cases of isolated LA positivity.
A Case of Penile Metastasis from Prostate Cancer, Identified by 68Ga-PSMA PET/CT, Mimicking Peyronie’s Disease: A Diagnostic Challenge
Authors: Gossili Farid , Langkilde Niels Christian , Zacho Helle D.
Published: July 2023

A 70-year-old man with high-risk prostate cancer (PCa) received radiation therapy and androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). The patient developed penile tenderness, compatible with Peyronie’s disease upon physical examination. An ultrasound revealed a matching hypoechoic plaque and a thrombus in the vena dorsalis profunda, which were treated with anticoagulants. A follow-up ultrasound showed no abnormalities. Despite the use of analgesics, the patient suffered from persistent pain, later accompanied by an increasing PSA level of up to 7.5 ng/mL, despite ADT. 68Ga-PSMA PET/CT showed a PSMA uptake consistent with PCa penile metastasis. Due to severe pain and the presence of metastatic PCa, the patient was referred for penectomy. Histopathological analysis confirmed metastases originating from the PCa. This case underscores the importance of 68Ga-PSMA PET/CT in diagnosing PCa metastases and vigilance towards urogenital symptoms as potential indicators of metastases, despite the rarity of penile metastases.
Optimization of Revision Hip Arthroplasty Workflow by Means of Detailed Pre-Surgical Planning Using Computed Tomography Data, Open-Source Software and Three-Dimensional-Printed Models
Authors: Andrzejewski Krzysztof , Domżalski Marcin , Komorowski Piotr , Poszepczyński Jan , Rokita Bożena , Elgalal Marcin
Published: July 2023

Background. In revision hip arthroplasty (RHA), establishing the center of rotation (COR) can be technically challenging due to the acetabular bone destruction that is usually present, particularly in severe cases such as Paprosky type II and III defects. The aim of this study was to demonstrate the use of open-source medical image reconstruction software and low-cost 3D anatomical models in pre-surgical planning of RHA. Methods. A total of 10 patients, underwent RHA and were included in the study. Computed tomography (CT) scans were performed for all cases, before surgery and approximately 1 week after the procedure. The reconstruction of CT data, 3D virtual planning of the COR and positioning of acetabular cups, including their inclination and anteversion angles, was carried out using the free open source software platform 3D Slicer. In addition, anatomical models of the pelvis were built on a desktop 3D printer from polylactic acid (PLA). Preoperative and postoperative reconstructed imaging data were compared for each patient, and the position of the acetabular cups as well as the COR were evaluated for each case. Results. Analysis of the pre- and post-op center of rotation position data indicated statistically insignificant differences for the location of the COR on the X-axis (1.5 mm, t = 0.5741, p = 0.5868) with a fairly strong correlation of the results (r = −0.672, p = 0.0982), whilst for the location of the COR in the Y and Z-axes, there was statistical dependence (Y axis, 4.7 mm, t = 3.168 and p = 0.0194; Z axis, 1.9 mm, t = 1.887 and p = 0.1081). A strong correlation for both axes was also observed (Y and Z) (Y-axis, r = 0.9438 and p = 0.0014; Z-axis, r = 0.8829 and p = 0.0084). Analysis of inclination angle values showed a statistically insignificant difference between mean values (3.9 degrees, t = 1.111, p = 0.3092) and a moderate correlation was found between mean values (r = −0.4042, p = 0.3685). Analysis of the anteversion angle showed a statistically insignificant difference between mean values (1.9 degrees, t = 0.8671, p = 0.4192), while a moderate correlation between mean values was found (r = −0.4782, p = 0.2777). Conclusions. Three-dimensional reconstruction software, together with low-cost anatomical models, are very effective tools for pre-surgical planning, which have great potential use in orthopedic surgery, particularly RHA. In up and in- and up and out-type defects, it is essential to establish a new COR and to identify three support points within the revision acetabulum in order to correctly position acetabular cups.
Evaluation of the Relationship between Osteoporosis Parameters in Plain Hip Radiography and DXA Results in 156 Patients at a Single Center in Turkey
Authors: Ilyas Gokhan , Ipci Fikri Burak
Published: July 2023

Background: The aim of the current study is to determine the relationship between osteoporosis findings in plain X-ray and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) measurement results and to create an alternative diagnostic method for osteoporosis without DXA measurement when necessary. Methods: DXA values and hip radiographs of 156 patients were retrospectively analyzed. Singh index (SI), Dorr index (DI), cortical thickness index (CTI), and canal-to-calcar ratio (CCR) measurements from both plain hip radiographs were determined by two observers. The correlation of the DXA parameters (hip total T-score, femoral neck T-score, hip total Z-score, hip total bone mineral density [BMD], and femoral neck BMD) and osteoporosis markers on plain hip radiography (SI, DI, CTI, and CCR) was calculated. In addition, patients were evaluated by dividing them into three groups according to the level of their T-scores (normal, osteopenia, and osteoporosis). In addition, cut-off values were calculated for CTI and CCR. Results: The mean age was 68.27 ± 8.27 (50–85) years. There was a strong correlation between hip total T-score values and SI, DI, and CTI (r = 0.683, −0.667, and 0.632, respectively), and a moderate correlation (r = −0.495) with CCR. When both hips were compared, there were strong correlations between radiographic parameters (r = 0.942 for SI, 0.858 for DI, 0.957 for CTI, and 0.938 for CCR, all with p < 0.001). When patients divided into three groups according to the T-score level were compared in terms of SI, DI, CTI, and CCR, it was found to be directly related to osteoporosis level (all p < 0.001). In the differentiation of osteopenia and osteoporosis, the cut-off values were 50.4 degrees for CTI and 60.3 degrees for CCR. Conclusion: Good correlations between hip total T-score values and SI, DI, CTI, and CCR (r = 0.683, −0.667, 0.632, and −0.495, respectively) indicate that the presence of osteoporosis can be detected by hip radiography findings without DXA.
Topological Methods for Studying Contextuality: N-Cycle Scenarios and Beyond
Authors: Kharoof Aziz , Ipek Selman , Okay Cihan
Published: July 2023

Simplicial distributions are combinatorial models describing distributions on spaces of measurements and outcomes that generalize nonsignaling distributions on contextuality scenarios. This paper studies simplicial distributions on two-dimensional measurement spaces by introducing new topological methods. Two key ingredients are a geometric interpretation of Fourier–Motzkin elimination and a technique based on the collapsing of measurement spaces. Using the first one, we provide a new proof of Fine’s theorem characterizing noncontextual distributions in N-cycle scenarios. Our approach goes beyond these scenarios and can describe noncontextual distributions in scenarios obtained by gluing cycle scenarios of various sizes. The second technique is used for detecting contextual vertices and deriving new Bell inequalities. Combined with these methods, we explore a monoid structure on simplicial distributions.
Adapted Education for Gifted Students in Norway: A Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Lenvik Astrid , Jones Lise Øen , Hesjedal Elisabeth
Published: July 2023

In this article, we describe the mixed methods research (i.e., quantitative survey and qualitative interviews) we conducted to investigate adapted education for gifted students in Norway. The survey results showed that the teachers (n = 132) used differentiation strategies and agreed that gifted students need an adapted education that extends beyond the regular curriculum. We identified three themes related to adapted education based on an analysis of the student interview data (n = 17, aged 12–15) and four themes based on an analysis of the teachers’ responses to the open-ended survey question regarding adapted education. We also investigated similarities and differences between teacher and student themes: both groups reported similar enrichment strategies applied within adapted education and similar barriers and systematic challenges to its facilitation.
Nonlinear Stochastic Adaptive Control for DFIG-Based Wind Generation System
Authors: Zhang Jian , Wan Yong , Ouyang Quan , Dong Meng
Published: July 2023

The aim of this paper is to extract the maximum power from wind energy for the doubly fed induction generator based wind turbine system (DFIG-WT) under the continuous stochastic perturbations of wind speed. The DFIG-WT is modeled as the Itô stochastic differential equations. The stochastic backstepping control method and the gain suppressing inequality technique are employed to guarantee that the relative rotor speed to the optimal value is bounded in probability. Furthermore, we extend the bounded result to the asymptotic stability of the rotor speed control loop. In addition, the parametric uncertainties in DFIG-WT are also considered in our control synthesis. The simplicity, robustness and efficiency of the designed controller are verified under the special wind speed with white noise by the numerical simulation of a 660 KW DFIG-WT.
Optimal Capacity of a Battery Energy Storage System Based on Solar Variability Index to Smooth out Power Fluctuations in PV-Diesel Microgrids
Authors: Susanto Julius , Shahnia Farhad
Published: July 2023

Battery energy storage systems can be integrated with photovoltaic (PV)-diesel microgrids as an enabling technology to increase the penetration of PV systems and aid microgrid stability by smoothing out the power fluctuations of the PV systems. This paper focuses on this topic and aims to derive correlations between the optimal capacity of the smoothing batteries and variabilities in the daily solar irradiance. To this end, the two most commonly used moving average and ramp rate control techniques are employed on a real solar irradiance dataset with a 1-min resolution for a full calendar year across 11 sites in Australia. The paper then presents the developed empirical model, based on linear regressions, to estimate the batteries’ optimal capacity without requiring detailed simulation studies, which are useful for practitioners at the early stages of a project’s feasibility evaluation. The performance of the developed technique is validated through numerical simulation studies in MATLAB®. The study demonstrates that the empirical model provided reasonably accurate estimates when using the moving average smoothing technique but had limited accuracy under the ramp rate control technique.
Preparation and Characterization of Lauric Acid/Modified Fly Ash/Graphene Composite as Low-Cost and Eco-Friendly Phase Change Materials for Thermal Energy Storage
Authors: Liu Peng , Cui Xinglan , Wang Yajing , Zhang Zhikai , Rao Jun , Jiang Shuai , Gu Xiaobin
Published: July 2023

Fly ash is a kind of industrial solid waste that is considered “hazardous waste”. In this study, a supporting matrix of modified fly ash (MFA) was employed to package lauric acid (LA) via a facile direct impregnation method involving less experimental error. A low-cost and eco-friendly form-stable phase change material (PCM) of LA/MFA/graphene (G) was fabricated, with G as the thermal conductivity enhancer. The preparation and leakage testing of an LA/MFA/G form-stable PCM (FSPCM) were investigated in detail. The leakage test results indicated that good package efficiency was obtained using MFA with a higher specific surface area and richer pore structure to pack the LA. Then, LA/MFA/G composites were characterized via scanning electronic microscope (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscope (FTIR), differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), and thermal gravimetric analyzer (TGA). The results showed that excellent form stability was obtained by adding MFA as the supporting matrix. The SEM analysis indicated that LA could be well dispersed into the structure of MFA. The FTIR analysis demonstrated that the components of the FSPCM were quite compatible. The results of the DSC illustrated that LA/MFA/G (5 wt. %) had a melting point of 45.38 °C and a latent heat of 41.08 J/g. The TGA analysis revealed that the prepared FSPCM had better thermal stability compared with LA within its working temperature range. In addition, the effects of G on the heat transfer performance of the prepared FSPCM were examined. In short, using MFA with a higher specific surface area and richer pore structure to pack the LA via a simple preparation process with less experimental error can contribute to good performance. The research not only improved the comprehensive utilization of solid waste, but also promotes the application of FSPCM in the field of building energy conservation.
The Impact of Climate Change and Window Parameters on Energy Demand and CO2 Emissions in a Building with Various Heat Sources
Authors: Jezierski Walery , Krawczyk Dorota Anna , Sadowska Beata
Published: July 2023

This article presents an original study on the impact of climate change and the area of windows Awi (factor X1), the thermal transmittance coefficient of windows Uwi (factor X2), and the coefficient of total solar transmittance factor of the glazing ggl (factor X3) on the index of annual usable energy demand for heating EUH (function Y) of a single-family residential building in the climatic conditions of Bialystok (Poland), which were loaded with an equal gradual increase in average monthly external temperature by Δθe,n (factor X4). Based on the results of the computational experiment, a deterministic mathematical model of this dependence was developed, and the effects of selected factors on the Y function were analyzed for the considered climatic conditions. Moreover, in cases of selected variants, the influence of the energy source on the amount of final energy used and CO2 emissions was studied. It was found that an increase in the average monthly external temperature reduces the EUH of the tested building by 8.4% per every 1 °C of increase in Δθe,n. The reduction in CO2 emissions as a result of climate change is visible for systems with low efficiency and high emission factors (wood boiler), while in the case of pro-ecological high-efficiency systems (with a ground-source pump heat) it is inappreciable. Due to the need to decarbonize buildings, knowledge about the impact of the properties of windows, which are the weakest element in terms of heat loss through the building envelope, as well as the type of heat source on heat demand and CO2 emissions, is very important for engineers and designers when making the correct decisions.
Unveiling Thyroid Disease Associations: An Exceptionality-Based Data Mining Technique
Authors: Zhang Xinyu , Lee Vincent C. S. , Lee James C.
Published: July 2023

Background: The prevalence of thyroid disease has seen a rapid increase in recent times, primarily attributed to the fast pace of lifestyles that often result in poor dietary choices, work-life imbalances, social stress, genetic mutations, and improved diagnostic capabilities. However, the precise contribution of these factors to thyroid disease remains a subject of controversy. Consequently, there is a pressing need to gain a comprehensive understanding of the related associations in order to potentially mitigate the associated morbidity and mortality rates. Methods: This study employed association rule mining techniques to reveal hidden correlations among complex and diverse epidemiological connections pertaining to thyroid disease associations. We proposed a framework which incorporates text mining and association rule mining algorithms with exceptionality measurement to simultaneously identify common and exception risk factors correlated with the disease through real-life digital health records. Two distinctive datasets were analyzed through two algorithms, and mutual factors were retained for interpretation. Results: The results confirmed that age, gender, and history of thyroid disease are risk factors positively related to subsequent thyroid cancer. Furthermore, it was observed that the absence of underlying chronic disease conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, or obesity, are associated with reduced likelihood of being diagnosed with thyroid cancer. Conclusions: Collectively, the proposed framework demonstrates its sound feasibility and should be further recommended for different disease in-depth knowledge discovery.
Exploring Consumer Behavior and Preferences toward White Shrimp in Taiwan
Authors: Jhan Hao-Tang , Lee Hsin-Ta , Ting Kuo-Huan , Liu Wen-Hong
Published: July 2023

This study identifies and explores the key factors and issues that influence Taiwanese consumer behavior and preferences when it comes to the consumption of white shrimp. It aims to increase consumer confidence in, and purchase intention for, private-brand white shrimp and to develop marketing strategies and models for farmers who operate a self-produced, self-sold model. This study adopted the Alphabet theory and EKB modeling to obtain a holistic picture of white shrimp purchase behavior and consumer preferences. A semi-questionnaire was conducted with 921 consumers of white shrimp between November 2020 and March 2021, of which 787 questionnaires were valid and used in this study. Our study revealed the following noteworthy points. Freshness and drug residue are the two main concerns of white shrimp purchasers. The results of the consumer study show the existence of statistically significant differences between the defined segments in terms of general characteristics, consumption habits and behavior, and motivation for product awareness and purchase intention, as well as determination of the option of obtaining white shrimp for consumption. Our findings suggest that there is a significant correlation between product awareness and purchase intention. This has a number of practical implications for the self-produced, self-sold aquaculture farmer. In particular, it highlights the importance of the following: 1. establishing connection and trust by business model innovation, 2. improving product image and value, 3. providing product safety information to increase purchase intention and willingness to pay, and 4. developing production and sale plans in response to market demand.
Dissipation Kinetics and Risk Assessment of Diniconazole, Dinotefuran, Metconazole, and Tebuconazole in Raphanus sativus L.
Authors: Kwak Yunseon , Song Min-Ho , Yu Ji-Woo , Lee Ji-Ho
Published: July 2023

This study investigated the degradation characteristics and conducted a risk assessment of four pesticides (Diniconazole, Dinotefuran, Metconazole, and Tebuconazole) in the leaves and roots of radish. Radish was cultivated in two greenhouse fields, and samples were collected at 0, 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, and 10 days after pesticide application. Sample analysis was performed using LC-MS/MS, and the recovery rates ranged from 70.1% to 118.6%. The biological half-life of Diniconazole was found to be 6.2 days (leaf and root), Dinotefuran was 5.3 days (leaf) and 4.6 days (root), Metconazole was 9.3 days (leaf) and 3.2 days (root), and Tebuconazole was 8.0 days (leaf) and 5.1 days (root). After comparing the maximum residue limits (MRL) of each pesticide in Korea with the residues during the pre-harvest interval (PHI), Diniconazole showed a Hazard quotient (HQ) exceeding 1, indicating potential risks for true consumers. Furthermore, Tebuconazole showed an HQ of 0.3 or higher, indicating a significant level of risk.
Characteristics and Functional Properties of Maillard Reaction Products from α-Lactalbumin and Polydextrose
Authors: Dai Kexin , Wang Jiangpeng , Luo Yingting , Tu Yaqi , Ren Fazheng , Zhang Hao
Published: July 2023

The characteristics and the functions of Maillard reaction products (MRPs) produced by polydextrose (PD), a new type of prebiotic, and α-lactalbumin (α-LA) were valued. PD and α-LA were incubated at 60 °C and 79% relative humidity for up to 72 h to prepare MRPs. The results showed that the absorbance and fluorescence intensity of heated α-LA-PD increased, and the amount of free amino groups reduced as the reaction progressed, which confirmed the formation of different stages of MRPs. Electrophoresis revealed an increase in molecular mass and the degree of covalent cross-linking. The secondary structure of MRPs experienced no significant changes with the measurement of circular dichroism (CD), while the tertiary structure gradually unfolded, exposing hydrophobic groups. Furthermore, a significant increase was detected in the radical-scavenging activity of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and the ferric reducing/antioxidant power (FRAP) of MRPs. The findings offer a foundation for understanding the structural and functional features of MRPs in formula milk powder.
Nutritional Compositions, Phenolic Contents and Antioxidant Activities of Rainfed Rice Grown in Different Degrees of Soil Salinity
Authors: Sahasakul Yuraporn , Aursalung Amornrat , Thangsiri Sirinapa , Temviriyanukul Piya , Inthachat Woorawee , Pongwichian Pirach , Sasithorn Kamontip , Suttisansanee Uthaiwan
Published: July 2023

Rice (Oryza sativa) is a staple food crop for over half of the world’s population. However, drought as a result of climate change has led to increased soil salinity, thereby reducing agricultural potential, especially rice nutritional compositions and biochemical properties. Nevertheless, soil management by using suitable fertilizers might be able to improve rice quality even though these rice samples were grown in soil with a high degree of salinity. This study investigated nutritional compositions, phenolic contents, and antioxidant activities of twenty-five rainfed rice samples in Khao Dawk Mali 105 (KDML105) and Rice Department 15 (RD15) varieties grown in soil with different degrees of salinity. The soil, however, had been improved by the usage of fertilizer at the tillering and booting stages. Results indicated that all rice samples exhibited similar nutrients, total phenolic contents (TPCs), and antioxidant potentials, suggesting that appropriate fertilizer could improve rice qualities. Principle Component Analysis (PCA) and Pearson correlation results suggested that regardless of rice varieties, organic matter (OM) and soil potassium (Ks) showed a very strong positive correlation with protein and minerals (Ca, Na, K, and Fe), while opposite results were observed with soil pH. Moderate to very weak correlations were also observed between soil parameters and TPCs, as well as between soil parameters and antioxidant activities. The received information will be useful for the future development of appropriate fertilizer usage in salt-tolerant rice with particular nutritional quality.
A Chaos-Enhanced Fractional-Order Chaotic System with Self-Reproduction Based on a Memcapacitor and Meminductor
Authors: Wang Xuan , Cao Yinghong , Li Hongjie , Li Bo
Published: July 2023

Chaotic signals generated by chaotic oscillators based on memory elements are suitable for use in the field of confidential communications because of their very good randomness. But often their maximum Lyapunov exponent is not high enough, so the degree of randomness is not enough. It can be chaos enhanced by transforming it to fractional order using the Caputo differential definition. In this paper, based on the proposed hyperchaotic oscillator, it is extended to a fractional-order form to obtain a chaos-enhanced fractional-order memcapacitor meminductor system, in which several different styles of chaotic and hyperchaotic attractors are found. The dynamical behaviour of the system is studied using bifurcation diagrams, Lyapunov exponent spectrums and Lyapunov dimensions. The multistability of the system is explored in different initial orbits, and the spectral entropy complexity of this system is examined. Finally, a hardware implementation of the memcapacitor meminductor system is given, which demonstrates the effectiveness of the system. This study provides a reference for the study of chaos-enhanced.
Assessing the Differential Abundance of Maternal Circulating MicroRNAs or Interferon-Stimulated Genes with Early Pregnancy
Authors: DeCarlo Andrea N. , Parrish Joseph , Quarles Jasmine D. , Long Nathan M. , Pratt Scott L.
Published: July 2023

Interferon-stimulated genes (ISG) and microRNA (miRNA) present in maternal circulation have been reported to be diagnostic of pregnancy in cattle prior to day (d)30 of gestation. The objective of this study was to assess specific ISG and miRNA abundance on d 18 of gestation. Cattle were subjected to estrous synchronization and artificially inseminated to a single Angus sire. At time of insemination (d 0) and d 18 post-insemination, blood was collected and total RNA isolated. Differential abundance (DA) in specific ISG and miRNA between d 0 and d 18 samples in pregnant (n = 10) and open (n = 10) cows were assessed via RT-qPCR. The relative Ct values were normalized using abundance of cyclophilin or the geometric mean of specific miRNA for the ISG and miRNA genes of interest, respectively. The DA of the ISG were increased due to pregnancy (p < 0.05); however, there was no expected day of gestation by pregnancy interaction. Relative abundance of Bta-miR-16 increased on d18 regardless of pregnancy status (p < 0.05). None of the miRNA evaluated in this study were associated with pregnancy status. These data indicate that certain ISG may serve as early indicators of pregnancy in cattle, but abundance of the miRNA does not.
Mitochondrial DNA in Human Diversity and Health: From the Golden Age to the Omics Era
Authors: Hernández Candela
Published: July 2023

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is a small fraction of our hereditary material. However, this molecule has had an overwhelming presence in scientific research for decades until the arrival of high-throughput studies. Several appealing properties justify the application of mtDNA to understand how human populations are—from a genetic perspective—and how individuals exhibit phenotypes of biomedical importance. Here, I review the basics of mitochondrial studies with a focus on the dawn of the field, analysis methods and the connection between two sides of mitochondrial genetics: anthropological and biomedical. The particularities of mtDNA, with respect to inheritance pattern, evolutionary rate and dependence on the nuclear genome, explain the challenges of associating mtDNA composition and diseases. Finally, I consider the relevance of this single locus in the context of omics research. The present work may serve as a tribute to a tool that has provided important insights into the past and present of humankind.
Genome-Wide Characterization of Calmodulin and Calmodulin-like Protein Gene Families in Paulownia fortunei and Identification of Their Potential Involvement in Paulownia Witches’ Broom
Authors: Li Lijiao , Guo Na , Cao Yabing , Zhai Xiaoqiao , Fan Guoqiang
Published: July 2023

As significant Ca2+ sensors, calmodulin (CaM) and calmodulin-like proteins (CML), have been associated with a variety of environmental conditions in plants. However, whether CaMs/CMLs are related to the stress of phytoplasma infection has not been reported in Paulownia fortunei. In the current study, 5 PfCaMs and 58 PfCMLs were detected through a genome-wide investigation. The number of EF-hand motifs in all PfCaMs/CMLs varied. Bioinformatics analyses, including protein characteristics, conserved domain, gene structure, cis-elements, evolutionary relationship, collinearity, chromosomal location, post-translation modification site, subcellular localization and expression pattern analyses, represented the conservation and divergence of PfCaMs/CMLs. Furthermore, some PfCaMs/CMLs might be involved in plants’ reaction to phytoplasma infection and exogenous calcium therapy, indicating these genes may play a role in abiotic as well as biotic stress responses. In addition, subcellular localization analysis showed that PfCML10 was located in the cell membrane and nucleus. In summary, these findings establish a stronger platform for their subsequent functional investigation in trees and further characterize their roles in Paulownia witches’ broom (PaWB) occurrence.
The Transmission Patterns of the Endosymbiont Wolbachia within the Hawaiian Drosophilidae Adaptive Radiation
Authors: Corpuz Renée L. , Bellinger M. Renee , Veillet Anne , Magnacca Karl N. , Price Donald K.
Published: July 2023

The evolution of endosymbionts and their hosts can lead to highly dynamic interactions with varying fitness effects for both the endosymbiont and host species. Wolbachia, a ubiquitous endosymbiont of arthropods and nematodes, can have both beneficial and detrimental effects on host fitness. We documented the occurrence and patterns of transmission of Wolbachia within the Hawaiian Drosophilidae and examined the potential contributions of Wolbachia to the rapid diversification of their hosts. Screens for Wolbachia infections across a minimum of 140 species of Hawaiian Drosophila and Scaptomyza revealed species-level infections of 20.0%, and across all 399 samples, a general infection rate of 10.3%. Among the 44 Wolbachia strains we identified using a modified Wolbachia multi-locus strain typing scheme, 30 (68.18%) belonged to supergroup B, five (11.36%) belonged to supergroup A, and nine (20.45%) had alleles with conflicting supergroup assignments. Co-phylogenetic reconciliation analysis indicated that Wolbachia strain diversity within their endemic Hawaiian Drosophilidae hosts can be explained by vertical (e.g., co-speciation) and horizontal (e.g., host switch) modes of transmission. Results from stochastic character trait mapping suggest that horizontal transmission is associated with the preferred oviposition substrate of the host, but not the host’s plant family or island of occurrence. For Hawaiian Drosophilid species of conservation concern, with 13 species listed as endangered and 1 listed as threatened, knowledge of Wolbachia strain types, infection status, and potential for superinfection could assist with conservation breeding programs designed to bolster population sizes, especially when wild populations are supplemented with laboratory-reared, translocated individuals. Future research aimed at improving the understanding of the mechanisms of Wolbachia transmission in nature, their impact on the host, and their role in host species formation may shed light on the influence of Wolbachia as an evolutionary driver, especially in Hawaiian ecosystems.
The Coastal Areas of the Bay of Naples: The Sedimentary Dynamics and Geological Evolution of the Naples Canyons
Authors: Aiello Gemma , Caccavale Mauro
Published: July 2023

The sedimentary dynamics and geological evolution of the Naples canyons during the Late Quaternary have been studied based on sedimentological and seismo-stratigraphic data. Several factors, including the sedimentary environments, tectonic setting, and volcanic eruptions, have controlled the geological evolution of the coastal and marine areas of the Bay of Naples. The main data and methods include the sedimentological data analysis, the seismo-stratigraphic techniques applied in the geological interpretation of seismic profiles, and the integrated analysis of core data that were previously published. The formation of the Dohrn canyon is controlled by fluvial processes, active in correspondence with the palaeo-Schiazzano River system and by the main eruptive events involving the submarine portion of Naples Bay, including the Campanian Ignimbrite (CI; 39 ky B.P.) and the Neapolitan Yellow Tuff (NYT; 15 ky B.P.). The formation of the Magnaghi canyon is controlled by erosional processes on the continental slope of Procida Island, which was active during the last eruptive phases of the island (Solchiaro Formation; 18 ky B.P.), triggering high rates of volcaniclastic supply.
Physical Activity and the Impact of Continued Exercise on Health-Related Quality of Life Prior to and during Pregnancy: A German Cohort Study
Authors: Kasoha Mariz , Hamza Amr , Leube Ayse , Solomayer Erich-Franz , Frenzel Jochen , Schwab Roxana , Sima Romina Marina , Haj Hamoud Bashar
Published: July 2023

The goal of this study was to examine how regular physical activity before and during pregnancy affected life quality throughout pregnancy. Between July 2020 and May 2021, 218 pregnant women were recruited from 11 outpatient clinics for this survey. Data were collected prospectively in a panel format beginning with the 10th gestational week over a 20-week period. Prior to pregnancy, a previous time point was also defined. The International Physical Activity Questionnaire, the EQ-5D-3L questionnaire, and the EQ-VAS questionnaire were used to collect data on the duration and intensity of daily physical exercises, as well as to assess health-related quality of life and self-estimated health status. The final survey included data from 113 women. During pregnancy, physical activity decreased dramatically. The duration of strenuous activities, but not moderate activities, was significantly reduced. Continuous physical activity independently predicted higher life quality scores at all points of assessment. Cases who participated in moderate and strenuous activities on a regular basis had higher self-estimated health status scores than cases who only participated in moderate activity. Instead of focusing solely on specific types of physical activity, we believe that strategies for motivating all pregnant women to be constantly active should be developed.
Primary Care of the (Near) Future: Exploring the Contribution of Digitalization and Remote Care Technologies through a Case Study
Authors: Pennestrì Federico , Banfi Giuseppe
Published: July 2023

The Italian Government planned to invest €15 billion of European funds on National Health Service digitalization and primary care enhancement. The critical burden brought by the pandemic upon hospital care mean these investments could no longer be delayed, considering the extraordinary backlogs of many treatments and the ordinary gaps of fragmented long-term care, in Italy and abroad. National guidelines have been published to standardize interventions across the Italian regions, and telemedicine is frequently mentioned as a key innovation to achieve both goals. The professional resources needed to run the facilities introduced in primary care are defined with great precision, but no details are given on how digitalization and remote care technologies must be implemented in this context. Building on this policy case, this paper focuses on what contribution digitalization and telemedicine can offer to specific primary care innovations, drawing from implemented technology-driven policies which may support the effective stratification, prevention and management of chronic patient needs, including anticipatory healthcare, population health management, adjusted clinical groups, chronic care management, quality and outcomes frameworks, patient-reported outcomes and patient-reported experience. All these policies can benefit significantly from digitalization and remote care technology, provided that some risks and limitations are considered by design.
The Moderating Role of Health Variables on the Association between Physical Exercise and Quality of Life in Patients with End-Stage Renal Disease
Authors: Martínez-Majolero Víctor , Urosa Belén , Hernández-Sánchez Sonsoles , Arroyo David
Published: July 2023

Scientific evidence demonstrates the positive impact that physical exercise has on the quality of life (QOL) of patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, no study has proposed a model investigating the effect physical exercise has on the QOL of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients, considering the most frequent associated diseases (diabetes/hypertension). The objectives were (1) to explore the relationship between physical exercise and the QOL of adults with ESRD, and (2) to examine the moderating and/or mediating role of relevant patient variables. This non-interventional study utilized an ex post facto retrospective data analysis design with a sample of 310 patients with ESRD through two validated questionnaires. The dependent variables were the QOL scale (KDQOL-SF), and the physical function dimension (EFFISICA). The independent variables were the regular practice of intense physical activity (DEPINTE) and the daily time (in hours) the patient is in a sedentary attitude (TiParado). The moderating variables were the clinical situation and associated diseases. The mediator variable used was the body mass index. Bivariate and multiple regression analyses were conducted. Findings suggest implementing intense physical activity in transplant recipients and programmes to avoid sedentary lifestyles in dialysis patients have a positive effect in the QOL of ESRD patients.
Correction: Fleary et al. Census Tract Demographics Associated with Libraries’ Social, Economic, and Health-Related Programming. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19, 6598
Authors: Fleary Sasha A. , Gonçalves Carolina , Joseph Patrece L. , Baker Dwayne M.
Published: July 2023

The authors wish to make the following corrections to this paper [...]
Target Localization Method Based on Image Degradation Suppression and Multi-Similarity Fusion in Low-Illumination Environments
Authors: Tang Huapeng , Qin Danyang , Yang Jiaqiang , Bie Haoze , Yan Mengying , Zhang Gengxin , Ma Lin
Published: July 2023

Frame buildings as important nodes of urban space. The include high-speed railway stations, airports, residences, and office buildings, which carry various activities and functions. Due to illumination irrationality and mutual occlusion between complex objects, low illumination situations frequently develop in these architectural environments. In this case, the location information of the target is difficult to determine. At the same time, the change in the indoor electromagnetic environment also affects the location information of the target. Therefore, this paper adopts the vision method to achieve target localization in low-illumination environments by feature matching of images collected in the offline state. However, the acquired images have serious quality degradation problems in low-illumination conditions, such as low brightness, low contrast, color distortion, and noise interference. These problems mean that the local features in the collected images are missing, meaning that they fail to achieve a match with the offline database images; as a result, the location information of the target cannot be determined. Therefore, a Visual Localization with Multiple-Similarity Fusions (VLMSF) is proposed based on the Nonlinear Enhancement And Local Mean Filtering (NEALMF) preprocessing enhancement. The NEALMF method solves the problem of missing local features by improving the quality of the acquired images, thus improving the robustness of the visual positioning system. The VLMSF method solves the problem of low matching accuracy in similarity retrieval methods by effectively extracting and matching feature information. Experiments show that the average localization error of the VLMSF method is only 8 cm, which is 33.33% lower than that of the Kears-based VGG-16 similarity retrieval method. Meanwhile, the localization error is reduced by 75.76% compared with the Perceptual hash (Phash) retrieval method. The results show that the method proposed in this paper greatly alleviates the influence of low illumination on visual methods, thus helping city managers accurately grasp the location information of targets under complex illumination conditions.
Atmospheric and Room Temperature Plasma (ARTP) Mutagenesis Improved the Anti-MRSA Activity of Brevibacillus sp. SPR20
Authors: Songnaka Nuttapon , Lertcanawanichakul Monthon , Hutapea Albert Manggading , Nisoa Mudtorlep , Krobthong Sucheewin , Yingchutrakul Yodying , Atipairin Apichart
Published: July 2023

Brevibacillus sp. SPR20 produced potentially antibacterial substances against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The synthesis of these substances is controlled by their biosynthetic gene clusters. Several mutagenesis methods are used to overcome the restriction of gene regulations when genetic information is absent. Atmospheric and room temperature plasma (ARTP) is a powerful technique to initiate random mutagenesis for microbial strain improvement. This study utilized an argon-based ARTP to conduct the mutations on SPR20. The positive mutants of 40% occurred. The M27 mutant exhibited an increase in anti-MRSA activity when compared to the wild-type strain, with the MIC values of 250–500 and 500 μg/mL, respectively. M27 had genetic stability because it exhibited constant activity throughout fifteen generations. This mutant had similar morphology and antibiotic susceptibility to the wild type. Comparative proteomic analysis identified some specific proteins that were upregulated in M27. These proteins were involved in the metabolism of amino acids, cell structure and movement, and catalytic enzymes. These might result in the enhancement of the anti-MRSA activity of the ARTP-treated SPR20 mutant. This study supports the ARTP technology designed to increase the production of valuable antibacterial agents.
Structural and Biochemical Insights into Bis(2-hydroxyethyl) Terephthalate Degrading Carboxylesterase Isolated from Psychrotrophic Bacterium Exiguobacterium antarcticum
Authors: Hwang Jisub , Yoo Wanki , Shin Seung Chul , Kim Kyeong Kyu , Kim Han-Woo , Do Hackwon , Lee Jun Hyuck
Published: July 2023

This study aimed to elucidate the crystal structure and biochemically characterize the carboxylesterase EaEst2, a thermotolerant biocatalyst derived from Exiguobacterium antarcticum, a psychrotrophic bacterium. Sequence and phylogenetic analyses showed that EaEst2 belongs to the Family XIII group of carboxylesterases. EaEst2 has a broad range of substrate specificities for short-chain p-nitrophenyl (pNP) esters, 1-naphthyl acetate (1-NA), and 1-naphthyl butyrate (1-NB). Its optimal pH is 7.0, losing its enzymatic activity at temperatures above 50 °C. EaEst2 showed degradation activity toward bis(2-hydroxyethyl) terephthalate (BHET), a polyethylene terephthalate degradation intermediate. We determined the crystal structure of EaEst2 at a 1.74 Å resolution in the ligand-free form to investigate BHET degradation at a molecular level. Finally, the biochemical stability and immobilization of a crosslinked enzyme aggregate (CLEA) were assessed to examine its potential for industrial application. Overall, the structural and biochemical characterization of EaEst2 demonstrates its industrial potency as a biocatalyst.
Retinoic Acid Receptor β Loss in Hepatocytes Increases Steatosis and Elevates the Integrated Stress Response in Alcohol-Associated Liver Disease
Authors: Melis Marta , Trasino Steven E. , Tang Xiao-Han , Rappa Andrew , Zhang Tuo , Qin Lihui , Gudas Lorraine J.
Published: July 2023

In alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD), hepatic reductions in vitamin A and perturbations in vitamin A metabolism are common. However, the roles that the vitamin A receptors, termed retinoic acid receptors (RARs), may have in preventing the pathophysiology of ALD remains unclear. Our prior data indicate that a RARβ agonist limits the pathology of alcohol-related liver disease. Thus, we generated liver-specific AlbCre–RARβ knockout (BKO) mice and compared them to wild type (WT) mice in an early ALD model. Both strains showed similar blood ethanol concentrations and ETOH-metabolizing enzymes. However, the livers of pair-fed-BKO and ETOH-BKO mice developed higher levels of steatosis and triglycerides than pair-fed-WT and ETOH-WT mice. The increased hepatic steatosis observed in the pair-fed-BKO and ETOH-BKO mice was associated with higher lipid synthesis/trafficking transcripts and lower beta-oxidation transcripts. ETOH-BKO mice also exhibited a higher integrated stress response (ISR) signature, including higher transcript and protein levels of ATF4 and its target, 4-EBP1. In human hepatocytes (HepG2) that lack RARβ (RARβ-KO), ETOH treatments resulted in greater reactive oxygen species compared to their parental cells. Notably, even without ETOH, ATF4 and 4-EBP1 protein levels were higher in the RARβ-KO cells than in their parental cells. These 4-EBP1 increases were greatly attenuated in cultured ATF4-deficient and RARβ/ATF4-deficient HepG2, suggesting that RARβ is a crucial negative regulator of 4-EBP1 through ATF4 in cultured hepatocytes. Here, we identify RARβ as a negative regulator of lipid metabolism and cellular stress in ALD.
Fatigue in Inflammatory Joint Diseases
Authors: Chmielewski Grzegorz , Majewski Michał S. , Kuna Jakub , Mikiewicz Mateusz , Krajewska-Włodarczyk Magdalena
Published: July 2023

Fatigue is a prevalent symptom in various rheumatic diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. It is characterised as a subjective, enduring feeling of generalised tiredness or exhaustion, impacting the patient’s life quality and exacerbating disability. The fatigue nature is multifaceted, encompassing physiological, psychological, and social factors, and although the exact cause of inflammatory joint diseases is not fully understood, several factors are believed to contribute to its development. Despite high prevalence and importance, the symptom is often underestimated in clinical practice. Chronic inflammation, commonly associated with rheumatic diseases, has been proposed as a potential contributor to fatigue development. While current treatments effectively target inflammation and reduce disease activity, fatigue remains a persistent problem. Clinical evaluation of rheumatic diseases primarily relies on objective criteria, whereas fatigue, being a subjective symptom, is solely experienced and reported by the patient. Managing fatigue in inflammatory joint diseases involves a multifaceted approach. Identifying and comprehensively assessing the subjective components of fatigue in individual patients is crucial for effectively managing this symptom in everyday clinical practice.