bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dental DNA Mutations Occurring after Death: A Novel Method for Post-Mortem Interval (PMI) Estimation
Authors: Bianchi Ilenia , Grassi Simone , Nardi Eleonora , Castiglione Francesca , Focardi Martina
Published: August 2024

Post-mortem interval (PMI) estimation remains one of the major challenges in forensic practice, especially for late PMIs beyond 7–10 days after the death of the subject. In 2022, an innovative method to investigate the occurrence of mutations induced by the death of a subject in the DNA of post-mortem dental pulps at different PMIs was developed, applying a next-generation sequencing (NGS) analysis. The present study aims to apply the same method of analysis to a small sample of teeth belonging to the same subject and analyzed at different PMIs/accumulated degree days (ADDs), and of teeth extracted from different subjects but analyzed at the same PMI/ADD to verify the repeatability of the results obtained in relation to the time elapsed since death. A total of 10 teeth were collected from 6 patients (3 males and 3 females) with PMI varying from 8 to 35 days, and ADD from 157.4 to 753.8. We found 1754 mutations in 56 genes, with more than 700 mutations having a prevalence > 5% and more than 300 variants considered of interest for the purposes of the study. Mutations that were not present at lower PMIs but manifested in later PMIs in pulps belonging to the same subject demonstrate that they can only have been acquired by the subject after death and according to the time elapsed since death. In total, 67 somatic mutations in 29 out of the 56 genes of the used panel occurred in a fashion that allows an association with specific PMI/ADD ranges (within 8 days, between 17 and 28, and beyond 30 days after death). The results suggest that temperature and humidity could influence the rate of DNA degeneration in dental pulps, thus PMI should be estimated in ADD more than days. The preliminary validation supports the hypothesis that the innovative method could be a useful tool for estimating the post-mortem interval even beyond the first week after death, but further analyses are needed to customize a specific genetic panel for forensic investigations and verify the influence of degenerative processes of soft tissues surrounding dental elements on DNA degeneration of pulps.
The Effect of Ascorbic Acid on Hepatic Ischaemia–Reperfusion Injury in Wistar Rats: An Experimental Study
Authors: Ximenes Jorge Luiz Saraiva , Rocha-Filho Joel Avancini , Galvão Flavio Henrique Ferreira , Lanchotte Cinthia , Kubrusly Marcia Saldanha , Leitão Regina Maria Cubero , Jukemura Jose , Moscoso Agustin Vintimilla , Abdo Emilio Elias , D’Albuquerque Luiz Augusto Carneiro , Figueira Estela Regina Ramos
Published: August 2024

Liver ischaemia–reperfusion (IR) during hepatic surgeries can lead to liver cell death via oxidative stress and the activation of immune cells, the release of cytokines, and damage-associated molecular patterns. Ascorbic acid has been shown to confer potential protective effects against IR injury, mainly due to its antioxidant properties. This study evaluated the effect of ascorbic acid infusion at different time points during hepatic IR in rats. Thirty-six male Wistar rats were divided into control and experimental groups that received the same total ascorbic acid dose at three different infusion times: before ischaemia, before reperfusion, or before both ischaemia and reperfusion. All of the animals experienced hepatic IR injury. We measured the hepatic enzymes, cytokines, and portal blood flow. Animals receiving ascorbic acid before both ischaemia and reperfusion had lower liver enzyme levels, reduced inflammation, and better portal venous flow than other animals. Divided doses of ascorbic acid before IR may be beneficial for reducing liver injury associated with IR.
Function Analysis of a Maize Endo-1,4-β-xylanase Gene ZmHSL in Response to High-Temperature Stress
Authors: Pang Shengyan , Zheng Hongyan , Zhang Jiankui , Ren Xiaotian , Zong Xuefeng , Zou Junjie , Wang Lei
Published: August 2024

Rising temperature is a major threat to the normal growth and development of maize, resulting in low yield production and quality. The mechanism of maize in response to heat stress remains uncertain. In this study, a maize mutant Zmhsl-1 (heat sensitive leaves) with wilting and curling leaves under high temperatures was identified from maize Zheng 58 (Z58) mutant lines generated by ethyl methanesulfonate (EMS) mutagenesis. The Zmhsl-1 plants were more sensitive to increased temperature than Z58 in the field during growth season. The Zmhsl-1 plants had lower plant height, lower yield, and lower content of photosynthetic pigments. A bulked segregant analysis coupled with whole-genome sequencing (BSA-seq) enabled the identification of the corresponding gene, named ZmHSL, which encodes an endo-β-1,4-xylanase from the GH10 family. The loss-of-function of ZmHSL resulted in reduced lignin content in Zmhsl-1 plants, leading to defects in water transport and more severe leaf wilting with the increase in temperature. RNA-seq analysis revealed that the differentially expressed genes identified between Z58 and Zmhsl-1 plants are mainly related to heat stress-responsive genes and unfolded protein response genes. All these data indicated that ZmHSL plays a key role in lignin synthesis, and its defective mutation causes changes in the cell wall structure and gene expression patterns, which impedes water transport and confers higher sensitivity to high-temperature stress.
Bridging Neurobiological Insights and Clinical Biomarkers in Postpartum Depression: A Narrative Review
Authors: Zhang Keyi , He Lingxuan , Li Zhuoen , Ding Ruxuan , Han Xiaojiao , Chen Bingqing , Cao Guoxin , Ye Jiang-Hong , Li Tian , Fu Rao
Published: August 2024

Postpartum depression (PPD) affects 174 million women worldwide and is characterized by profound sadness, anxiety, irritability, and debilitating fatigue, which disrupt maternal caregiving and the mother–infant relationship. Limited pharmacological interventions are currently available. Our understanding of the neurobiological pathophysiology of PPD remains incomplete, potentially hindering the development of novel treatment strategies. Recent hypotheses suggest that PPD is driven by a complex interplay of hormonal changes, neurotransmitter imbalances, inflammation, genetic factors, psychosocial stressors, and hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis dysregulation. This narrative review examines recent clinical studies on PPD within the past 15 years, emphasizing advancements in neuroimaging findings and blood biomarker detection. Additionally, we summarize recent laboratory work using animal models to mimic PPD, focusing on hormone withdrawal, HPA axis dysfunction, and perinatal stress theories. We also revisit neurobiological results from several brain regions associated with negative emotions, such as the amygdala, prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, and striatum. These insights aim to improve our understanding of PPD’s neurobiological mechanisms, guiding future research for better early detection, prevention, and personalized treatment strategies for women affected by PPD and their families.
Ferroptosis—A Shared Mechanism for Parkinson’s Disease and Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Duță Carmen , Muscurel Corina , Dogaru Carmen Beatrice , Stoian Irina
Published: August 2024

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) and Parkinson’s disease (PD) are the two most frequent age-related chronic diseases. There are many similarities between the two diseases: both are chronic diseases; both are the result of a decrease in a specific substance—insulin in T2D and dopamine in PD; and both are caused by the destruction of specific cells—beta pancreatic cells in T2D and dopaminergic neurons in PD. Recent epidemiological and experimental studies have found that there are common underlying mechanisms in the pathophysiology of T2D and PD: chronic inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, impaired protein handling and ferroptosis. Epidemiological research has indicated that there is a higher risk of PD in individuals with T2D. Moreover, clinical studies have observed that the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease worsen significantly after the onset of T2D. This article provides an up-to-date review on the intricate interplay between oxidative stress, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and ferroptosis in PD and T2D. By understanding the shared molecular pathways and how they can be modulated, we can develop more effective therapies, or we can repurpose existing drugs to improve patient outcomes in both disorders.
Wastewater Surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 in Zambia: An Early Warning Tool
Authors: Shempela Doreen Mainza , Muleya Walter , Mudenda Steward , Daka Victor , Sikalima Jay , Kamayani Mapeesho , Sandala Dickson , Chipango Chilufya , Muzala Kapina , Musonda Kunda , Chizimu Joseph Yamweka , Mulenga Chilufya , Kapona Otridah , Kwenda Geoffrey , Kasanga Maisa , Njuguna Michael , Cham Fatim , Simwaka Bertha , Morrison Linden , Muma John Bwalya , Saasa Ngonda , Sichinga Karen , Simulundu Edgar , Chilengi Roma
Published: August 2024

Wastewater-based surveillance has emerged as an important method for monitoring the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). This study investigated the presence of SARS-CoV-2 in wastewater in Zambia. We conducted a longitudinal study in the Copperbelt and Eastern provinces of Zambia from October 2023 to December 2023 during which 155 wastewater samples were collected. The samples were subjected to three different concentration methods, namely bag-mediated filtration, skimmed milk flocculation, and polythene glycol-based concentration assays. Molecular detection of SARS-CoV-2 nucleic acid was conducted using real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). Whole genome sequencing was conducted using Illumina COVIDSEQ assay. Of the 155 wastewater samples, 62 (40%) tested positive for SARS-CoV-2. Of these, 13 sequences of sufficient length to determine SARS-CoV-2 lineages were obtained and 2 sequences were phylogenetically analyzed. Various Omicron subvariants were detected in wastewater including BA.5, XBB.1.45, BA.2.86, and JN.1. Some of these subvariants have been detected in clinical cases in Zambia. Interestingly, phylogenetic analysis positioned a sequence from the Copperbelt Province in the B.1.1.529 clade, suggesting that earlier Omicron variants detected in late 2021 could still be circulating and may not have been wholly replaced by newer subvariants. This study stresses the need for integrating wastewater surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 into mainstream strategies for monitoring SARS-CoV-2 circulation in Zambia.
High-Density Genetic Map Construction and Quantitative Trait Locus Analysis of Fruit- and Oil-Related Traits in Camellia oleifera Based on Double Digest Restriction Site-Associated DNA Sequencing
Authors: Lin Ping , Chai Jingyu , Wang Anni , Zhong Huiqi , Wang Kailiang
Published: August 2024

Camellia oleifera, an important tree species and source of edible oil in China, has received significant attention owing to the oil’s high unsaturated fatty acid content, which has benefits for human health. However, the mechanisms underlying C. oleifera yield and oil quality are largely unknown. In this study, 180 F1 progenies were obtained from two parents with obvious differences in fruit- and oil-related traits. We constructed a high-density genetic map using a double digest restriction site-associated DNA sequencing (ddRAD-Seq) strategy in C. oleifera. This map spanned 3327 cM and anchored 2780 markers in 15 linkage groups (LGs), with an average marker interval of 1.20 cM. A total of 221 quantitative trait loci (QTLs) associated with fruit- and oil-related traits were identified across three years’ worth of phenotypic data. Nine QTLs were detected simultaneously in at least two different years, located on LG02, LG04, LG05, LG06, and LG11, and explained 8.5–16.6% of the phenotypic variation in the corresponding traits, respectively. Seventeen major QTLs were obtained that explained 13.0–16.6% of the phenotypic variance. Eleven and five flanking SNPs of major QTLs for fruit- and oil-related traits were detected which could be used for marker-assisted selection in C. oleifera breeding programs. Furthermore, 202 potential candidate genes in QTL regions were identified based on the collinearity of the genetic map and the C. oleifera “CON” genome. A potential regulatory network controlling fruit development and oil biosynthesis was constructed to dissect the complex mechanism of oil accumulation. The dissection of these QTLs will facilitate the gene cloning underlying lipid synthesis and increase our understanding in order to enhance C. oleifera oil yield and quality.
Relationship between Gut, Blood, Aneurysm Wall and Thrombus Microbiome in Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Patients
Authors: Nemes-Nikodém Éva , Gyurok Gergő Péter , Dunai Zsuzsanna A. , Makra Nóra , Hofmeister Bálint , Szabó Dóra , Sótonyi Péter , Hidi László , Szappanos Ágnes , Kovács Gergely , Ostorházi Eszter
Published: August 2024

Previous research confirmed gut dysbiosis and translocation of selected intestinal bacteria into the vessel wall in abdominal aortic aneurysm patients. We studied the stool, blood, thrombus and aneurysm microbiomes of 21 abdominal aortic aneurysm patients using 16S rRNA sequencing. Our goals were to determine: 1. whether the microbiome characteristic of an aneurysm differs from that of a healthy vessel, 2. whether bacteria detectable in the aneurysm are translocated from the gut through the bloodstream, 3. whether the enzymatic activity of the aneurysm microbiome can contribute to the destruction of the vessel wall. The abundance of Acinetobacter, Burkholderia, Escherichia, and Sphingobium in the aneurysm samples was significantly higher than that in the microbiome of healthy vessels, but only a part of these bacteria can come from the intestine via the blood. Environmental bacteria due to the oral cavity or skin penetration route, such as Acinetobacter, Sphingobium, Enhydrobacter, and Aquabacterium, were present in the thrombus and aneurysm with a significantly higher abundance compared to the blood. Among the enzymes of the microbiome associated with the healthy vessel wall, Iron-chelate-transporting ATPase and Polar-amino-acid-transporting ATPase have protective effects. In addition, bacterial Peptidylprolyl isomerase activity found in the aneurysm has an aggravating effect on the formation of aneurysm.
Albiflorin Decreases Glutamate Release from Rat Cerebral Cortex Nerve Terminals (Synaptosomes) through Depressing P/Q-Type Calcium Channels and Protein Kinase A Activity
Authors: Lu Cheng-Wei , Lin Tzu-Yu , Chang Ya-Ying , Chiu Kuan-Ming , Lee Ming-Yi , Wang Su-Jane
Published: August 2024

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether and how albiflorin, a natural monoterpene glycoside, affects the release of glutamate, one of the most important neurotransmitters involved in neurotoxicity, from cerebrocortical nerve terminals (synaptosomes) in rats. The results showed that albiflorin reduced 4-aminopyridine (4-AP)-elicited glutamate release from synaptosomes, which was abrogated in the absence of extracellular Ca2+ or in the presence of the vesicular glutamate transporter inhibitor or a P/Q-type Ca2+ channel inhibitor, indicating a mechanism of action involving Ca2+-dependent depression of vesicular exocytotic glutamate release. Albiflorin failed to alter the increase in the fluorescence intensity of 3,3-diethylthiacarbocyanine iodide (DiSC3(5)), a membrane-potential-sensitive dye. In addition, the suppression of protein kinase A (PKA) abolished the effect of albiflorin on glutamate release. Albiflorin also reduced the phosphorylation of PKA and synaptosomal-associated protein of 25 kDa (SNAP-25) and synapsin I at PKA-specific residues, which correlated with decreased available synaptic vesicles. The results of transmission electron microscopy (TEM) also observed that albiflorin reduces the release competence of synaptic vesicles evoked by 4-AP in synaptosomes. In conclusion, by studying synaptosomally released glutamate, we suggested that albiflorin reduces vesicular exocytotic glutamate release by decreasing extracellular Ca2+ entry via P/Q-type Ca2+ channels and reducing PKA-mediated synapsin I and SNAP-25 phosphorylation.
Differential Expression of PACAP/VIP Receptors in the Post-Mortem CNS White Matter of Multiple Sclerosis Donors
Authors: Jansen Margo Iris , Musumeci Giuseppe , Castorina Alessandro
Published: August 2024

Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) are two neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory molecules of the central nervous system (CNS). Both bind to three G protein-coupled receptors, namely PAC1, VPAC1 and VPAC2, to elicit their beneficial effects in various CNS diseases, including multiple sclerosis (MS). In this study, we assessed the expression and distribution of PACAP/VIP receptors in the normal-appearing white matter (NAWM) of MS donors with a clinical history of either relapsing–remitting MS (RRMS), primary MS (PPMS), secondary progressive MS (SPMS) or in aged-matched non-MS controls. Gene expression studies revealed MS-subtype specific changes in PACAP and VIP and in the receptors’ levels in the NAWM, which were partly corroborated by immunohistochemical analyses. Most PAC1 immunoreactivity was restricted to myelin-producing cells, whereas VPAC1 reactivity was diffused within the neuropil and in axonal bundles, and VPAC2 in small vessel walls. Within and around lesioned areas, glial cells were the predominant populations showing reactivity for the different PACAP/VIP receptors, with distinctive patterns across MS subtypes. Together, these data identify the differential expression patterns of PACAP/VIP receptors among the different MS clinical entities. These results may offer opportunities for the development of personalized therapeutic approaches to treating MS and/or other demyelinating disorders.
Effects of Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Treatment on Skeletal Muscle Tissue Recovery in a Rat Model of Collagenase-Induced Tendinopathy: Results from a Proteome Analysis
Authors: Torretta Enrica , Moriggi Manuela , Capitanio Daniele , Orfei Carlotta Perucca , Raffo Vincenzo , Setti Stefania , Cadossi Ruggero , de Girolamo Laura , Gelfi Cecilia
Published: August 2024

Tendon disorders often result in decreased muscle function and atrophy. Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields (PEMFs) have shown potential in improving tendon fiber structure and muscle recovery. However, the molecular effects of PEMF therapy on skeletal muscle, beyond conventional metrics like MRI or markers of muscle decline, remain largely unexplored. This study investigates the metabolic and structural changes in PEMF-treated muscle tissue using proteomics in a rat model of Achilles tendinopathy induced by collagenase. Sprague Dawley rats were unilaterally induced for tendinopathy with type I collagenase injection and exposed to PEMFs for 8 h/day. Gastrocnemius extracts from untreated or PEMF-treated rats were analyzed with LC-MS/MS, and proteomics differential analysis was conducted through label-free quantitation. PEMF-treated animals exhibited decreased glycolysis and increased LDHB expression, enhancing NAD signaling and ATP production, which boosted respiratory chain activity and fatty acid beta-oxidation. Antioxidant protein levels increased, controlling ROS production. PEMF therapy restored PGC1alpha and YAP levels, decreased by tendinopathy. Additionally, myosins regulating slow-twitch fibers and proteins involved in fiber alignment and force transmission increased, supporting muscle recovery and contractile function. Our findings show that PEMF treatment modulates NAD signaling and oxidative phosphorylation, aiding muscle recovery through the upregulation of YAP and PGC1alpha and increasing slow myosin isoforms, thus speeding up physiological recovery.
A Splice Form of VEGF, a Potential Anti-Angiogenetic Form of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Cancer Inhibition
Authors: Dumitru Cristina Stefania , Raica Marius
Published: August 2024

Angiogenesis, primarily mediated by vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), is a fundamental step in the progression and metastasis of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Traditional anti-angiogenic therapies that target the VEGF pathway have shown promise but are often associated with significant side effects and variable efficacy due to the complexity of the angiogenic signaling pathway. This review highlights the potential of a specific VEGF splice form, VEGF165b, as an innovative therapeutic target for HNSCC. VEGF165b, unlike standard VEGF, is a natural inhibitor that binds to VEGF receptors without triggering pro-angiogenic signaling. Its distinct molecular structure and behavior suggest ways to modulate angiogenesis. This concept is particularly relevant when studying HNSCC, as introducing VEGF165b’s anti-angiogenic properties offers a novel approach to understanding and potentially influencing the disease’s dynamics. The review synthesizes experimental evidence suggesting the efficacy of VEGF165b in inhibiting tumor-induced angiogenesis and provides insight into a novel therapeutic strategy that could better manage HNSCC by selectively targeting aberrant vascular growth. This approach not only provides a potential pathway for more targeted and effective treatment options but also opens the door to a new paradigm in anti-angiogenic therapy with the possibility of reduced systemic toxicity. Our investigation is reshaping the future of HNSCC treatment by setting the stage for future research on VEGF splice variants as a tool for personalized medicine.
The Role of the Gut Microbiota in Sanfilippo Syndrome’s Physiopathology: An Approach in Two Affected Siblings
Authors: Barbero-Herranz Raquel , Garriga-García María , Moreno-Blanco Ana , Palacios Esther , Ruiz-Sala Pedro , Vicente-Santamaría Saioa , Stanescu Sinziana , Belanger-Quintana Amaya , Pintos-Morell Guillem , Arconada Beatriz , del Campo Rosa , Avendaño-Ortiz José
Published: August 2024

Sanfilippo syndrome, or mucopolysaccharidosis type III (MPS III), is a rare lysosomal disease caused by congenital enzymatic deficiencies in heparan sulfate (HS) degradation, leading to organ dysfunction. The most severe hallmark of MPS III comprises neurological alterations, although gastrointestinal symptoms (GISs) have also been shown to be relevant in many patients. Here, we explored the contribution of the gut microbiota to MPS III GISs. We analyzed the composition and functionality of the gut microbiota in two MPS III siblings with the same mutation (c.544C > T, c.1080delC, in the SGSH gene) and the same diet, but with differences in their GISs, including recurrent diarrhea in one of them. Using 16S sequencing, we observed that the MPS III patients exhibited decreased alpha diversity and a lower abundance of Lachnospiraceae and Bifidobacteriaceae accompanied by a higher abundance of the Ruminococcaceae and Rikenellaceae families than the healthy control subjects. Comparing siblings, we found an increased abundance of Bacteroidaceae and a lower abundance of Ruminococcaceae and Akkermansiaceae in the GIS-free patient. This patient also had a higher relative abundance of Sus genes (SusA, SusB, SusE, and SusG) involved in glycosaminoglycan metabolism. We found higher HS levels in the stool of the two MPS III patients than in healthy volunteers, particularly in the patient with GISs. Functionally, whole fecal metabolites from the patient with GISs induced oxidative stress in vitro in healthy monocytes. Finally, the Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron strain isolated from MPS III stool samples exhibited HS degradation ability. Overall, our results reveal different microbiota compositions and functionalities in MPS III siblings, who exhibited differential gastrointestinal symptomatology. Our study may serve as a gateway to explore the impact of the gut microbiota and its potential to enhance the quality of life in Sanfilippo syndrome patients.
5β-Dihydrosteroids: Formation and Properties
Authors: Penning Trevor M. , Covey Douglas F.
Published: August 2024

5β-Dihydrosteroids are produced by the reduction of Δ4-3-ketosteroids catalyzed by steroid 5β-reductase (AKR1D1). By analogy with steroid 5α-reductase, genetic deficiency exists in AKR1D1 which leads to errors in newborn metabolism and in this case to bile acid deficiency. Also, like the 5α-dihydrosteroids (e.g., 5α-dihydrotestosterone), the 5β-dihydrosteroids produced by AKR1D1 are not inactive but regulate ligand access to nuclear receptors, can act as ligands for nuclear and membrane-bound receptors, and regulate ion-channel opening. For example, 5β-reduction of cortisol and cortisone yields the corresponding 5β-dihydroglucocorticoids which are inactive on the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) and provides an additional mechanism of pre-receptor regulation of ligands for the GR in liver cells. By contrast, 5β-pregnanes can act as neuroactive steroids at the GABAA and NMDA receptors and at low-voltage-activated calcium channels, act as tocolytic agents, have analgesic activity and act as ligands for PXR, while bile acids act as ligands for FXR and thereby control cholesterol homeostasis. The 5β-androstanes also have potent vasodilatory properties and work through blockade of Ca2+ channels. Thus, a preference for 5β-dihydrosteroids to work at the membrane level exists via a variety of mechanisms. This article reviews the field and identifies gaps in knowledge to be addressed in future research.
Mechanobiology and Primary Cilium in the Pathophysiology of Bone Marrow Myeloproliferative Diseases
Authors: Tiberio Federica , Coda Anna Rita Daniela , Tosi Domiziano Dario , Luzi Debora , Polito Luca , Liso Arcangelo , Lattanzi Wanda
Published: August 2024

Philadelphia-Negative Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) are a diverse group of blood cancers leading to excessive production of mature blood cells. These chronic diseases, including polycythemia vera (PV), essential thrombocythemia (ET), and primary myelofibrosis (PMF), can significantly impact patient quality of life and are still incurable in the vast majority of the cases. This review examines the mechanobiology within a bone marrow niche, emphasizing the role of mechanical cues and the primary cilium in the pathophysiology of MPNs. It discusses the influence of extracellular matrix components, cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions, and mechanosensitive structures on hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) behavior and disease progression. Additionally, the potential implications of the primary cilium as a chemo- and mechanosensory organelle in bone marrow cells are explored, highlighting its involvement in signaling pathways crucial for hematopoietic regulation. This review proposes future research directions to better understand the dysregulated bone marrow niche in MPNs and to identify novel therapeutic targets.
Evolution and Competitive Struggles of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum under Different Oxygen Contents
Authors: Heo Sojeong , Jung Eun Jin , Park Mi-Kyung , Sung Moon-Hee , Jeong Do-Won
Published: August 2024

Lactiplantibacillus (Lb.) plantarum is known as a benign bacterium found in various habitats, including the intestines of animals and fermented foods. Since animal intestines lack oxygen, while fermented foods provide a limited or more oxygen environment, this study aimed to investigate whether there were genetic differences in the growth of Lb. plantarum under aerobic vs. anaerobic conditions. Genomic analysis of Lb. plantarum obtained from five sources—animals, dairy products, fermented meat, fermented vegetables, and humans—was conducted. The analysis included not only an examination of oxygen-utilizing genes but also a comparative pan-genomic analysis to investigate evolutionary relationships between genomes. The ancestral gene analysis of the evolutionary pathway classified Lb. plantarum into groups A and B, with group A further subdivided into A1 and A2. It was confirmed that group A1 does not possess the narGHIJ operon, which is necessary for energy production under limited oxygen conditions. Additionally, it was found that group A1 has experienced more gene acquisition and loss compared to groups A2 and B. Despite an initial assumption that there would be genetic distinctions based on the origin (aerobic or anaerobic conditions), it was observed that such differentiation could not be attributed to the origin. However, the evolutionary process indicated that the loss of genes related to nitrate metabolism was essential in anaerobic or limited oxygen conditions, contrary to the initial hypothesis.
Development of a Non-Structural Prefabricated Panel Based on Construction and Demolition Waste for Sustainable Construction
Authors: Jaramillo Haidee Yulady , Gómez Camperos July Andrea , Afanador García Nelson
Published: August 2024

The study focuses on developing a prefabricated panel for non-structural purposes by optimizing mortar mix designs incorporating recycled microplastic (RMP) and construction demolition waste (CDW) at various ratios (0, 10, 20, 30, and 100%). Experimental procedures encompassed material characterization, mortar specimen manufacturing, compression resistance testing, and thermal/acoustic panel tests following Colombian technical standards. Results indicate that incorporating 20% CDW enhances material strength, with cylinder number 3 (20% of CDW) achieving a resistance of 31.45 MPa. Panels incorporating recyclable waste materials show improved acoustic and thermal insulation properties, with up to 39 dB reduction in sound transmission and a 21 °C decrease in thermal transmission observed (5.6% and 35% for panel and door, respectively). This research advances sustainable construction practices demonstrating the potential of prefabricated panels using recyclable materials, offering eco-friendly solutions with enhanced performance characteristics for construction applications.
Gut Bacterial Communities in the Ground Beetle Carabus convexus
Authors: Magura Tibor , Mizser Szabolcs , Horváth Roland , Tóth Mária , Kozma Ferenc Sándor , Kádas János , Lövei Gábor L.
Published: August 2024

Biological interactions, including symbiotic ones, have vital roles in ecological and evolutionary processes. Microbial symbionts in the intestinal tracts, known as the gut microbiome, are especially important because they can fundamentally influence the life history, fitness, and competitiveness of their hosts. Studies on the gut-resident microorganisms of wild animals focus mainly on vertebrates, and studies on species-rich invertebrate taxa, such as ground beetles, are sparse. In fact, even among the species-rich genus Carabus, only the gut microbiome of two Asian species was studied, while results on European species are completely missing. Here, we investigated the gut bacterial microbiome of a widespread European Carabus species, targeting the V3 and V4 regions of the 16S ribosomal RNA genes by next-generation high-throughput sequencing. We identified 1138 different operational taxonomic units assigned to 21 bacterial phyla, 90 families, and 197 genera. Members of the carbohydrate-degrading Prevotellaceae family, previously not detected in ground beetles, were the most abundant in the gut microbiome of the carnivorous C. convexus. Presumably, individuals from the studied wild populations also consume plant materials, especially fruits, and these carbohydrate-degrading bacterial symbionts can facilitate both the consumption and the digestion of these supplementary foods.
Flow Rate Sensor inside Infusion Tube
Authors: Chui Hsiang-Chen , Xu Ying , Wang Zhiyuan , Zhang Xianting , Li Rui , Qin Kai-Rong
Published: August 2024

Infusion systems are widely used in clinical medicine. Intravenous infusion therapy must be monitored to ensure patient safety. We proposed a compact flow rate sensor device based on the time-of-flight method. This device included one ceramic heater and two infrared sensors. Practical sensor prototypes were fabricated and characterized. The response time was 30 s. The sensor range was estimated to be 33 dB from μL/min to tens of mL/min, covering almost the entire usage range This flow rate sensor can be applied to common infusion tubes. Through the use of a mobile phone app, detailed information can be presented in real time.
Enhancing Pulmonary Diagnosis in Chest X-rays through Generative AI Techniques
Authors: Sanida Theodora , Sanida Maria Vasiliki , Sideris Argyrios , Dasygenis Minas
Published: August 2024

Chest X-ray imaging is an essential tool in the diagnostic procedure for pulmonary conditions, providing healthcare professionals with the capability to immediately and accurately determine lung anomalies. This imaging modality is fundamental in assessing and confirming the presence of various lung issues, allowing for timely and effective medical intervention. In response to the widespread prevalence of pulmonary infections globally, there is a growing imperative to adopt automated systems that leverage deep learning (DL) algorithms. These systems are particularly adept at handling large radiological datasets and providing high precision. This study introduces an advanced identification model that utilizes the VGG16 architecture, specifically adapted for identifying various lung anomalies such as opacity, COVID-19 pneumonia, normal appearance of the lungs, and viral pneumonia. Furthermore, we address the issue of model generalizability, which is of prime significance in our work. We employed the data augmentation technique through CycleGAN, which, through experimental outcomes, has proven effective in enhancing the robustness of our model. The combined performance of our advanced VGG model with the CycleGAN augmentation technique demonstrates remarkable outcomes in several evaluation metrics, including recall, F1-score, accuracy, precision, and area under the curve (AUC). The results of the advanced VGG16 model showcased remarkable accuracy, achieving 98.58%. This study contributes to advancing generative artificial intelligence (AI) in medical imaging analysis and establishes a solid foundation for ongoing developments in computer vision technologies within the healthcare sector.
Use and Abuse of Personal Information, Part I: Design of a Scalable OSINT Collection Engine
Authors: Rheault Elliott , Nerayo Mary , Leonard Jaden , Kolenbrander Jack , Henshaw Christopher , Boswell Madison , Michaels Alan J.
Published: August 2024

In most open-source intelligence (OSINT) research efforts, the collection of information is performed in an entirely passive manner as an observer to third-party communication streams. This paper describes ongoing work that seeks to insert itself into that communication loop, fusing openly available data with requested content that is representative of what is sent to second parties. The mechanism for performing this is based on the sharing of falsified personal information through one-time online transactions that facilitate signup for newsletters, establish online accounts, or otherwise interact with resources on the Internet. The work has resulted in the real-time Use and Abuse of Personal Information OSINT collection engine that can ingest email, SMS text, and voicemail content at an enterprise scale. Foundations of this OSINT collection infrastructure are also laid to incorporate an artificial intelligence (AI)-driven interaction engine that shifts collection from a passive process to one that can effectively engage with different classes of content for improved real-world privacy experimentation and quantitative social science research.
Nanomaterials in Immunology: Bridging Innovative Approaches in Immune Modulation, Diagnostics, and Therapy
Authors: Croitoru George-Alexandru , Pîrvulescu Diana-Cristina , Niculescu Adelina-Gabriela , Epistatu Dragoș , Rădulescu Marius , Grumezescu Alexandru Mihai , Nicolae Carmen-Larisa
Published: August 2024

The intersection of immunology and nanotechnology has provided significant advancements in biomedical research and clinical applications over the years. Immunology aims to understand the immune system’s defense mechanisms against pathogens. Nanotechnology has demonstrated its potential to manipulate immune responses, as nanomaterials’ properties can be modified for the desired application. Research has shown that nanomaterials can be applied in diagnostics, therapy, and vaccine development. In diagnostics, nanomaterials can be used for biosensor development, accurately detecting biomarkers even at very low concentrations. Therapeutically, nanomaterials can act as efficient carriers for delivering drugs, antigens, or genetic material directly to targeted cells or tissues. This targeted delivery improves therapeutic efficacy and reduces the adverse effects on healthy cells and tissues. In vaccine development, nanoparticles can improve vaccine durability and extend immune responses by effectively delivering adjuvants and antigens to immune cells. Despite these advancements, challenges regarding the safety, biocompatibility, and scalability of nanomaterials for clinical applications are still present. This review will cover the fundamental interactions between nanomaterials and the immune system, their potential applications in immunology, and their safety and biocompatibility concerns.
Advancements in Nanoporous Materials for Biomedical Imaging and Diagnostics
Authors: Parvin Nargish , Kumar Vineet , Mandal Tapas Kumar , Joo Sang Woo
Published: August 2024

This review explores the latest advancements in nanoporous materials and their applications in biomedical imaging and diagnostics. Nanoporous materials possess unique structural features, including high surface area, tunable pore size, and versatile surface chemistry, making them highly promising platforms for a range of biomedical applications. This review begins by providing an overview of the various types of nanoporous materials, including mesoporous silica nanoparticles, metal–organic frameworks, carbon-based materials, and nanoporous gold. The synthesis method for each material, their current research trends, and prospects are discussed in detail. Furthermore, this review delves into the functionalization and surface modification techniques employed to tailor nanoporous materials for specific biomedical imaging applications. This section covers chemical functionalization, bioconjugation strategies, and surface coating and encapsulation methods. Additionally, this review examines the diverse biomedical imaging techniques enabled by nanoporous materials, such as fluorescence imaging, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT) imaging, ultrasound imaging, and multimodal imaging. The mechanisms underlying these imaging techniques, their diagnostic applications, and their efficacy in clinical settings are thoroughly explored. Through an extensive analysis of recent research findings and emerging trends, this review underscores the transformative potential of nanoporous materials in advancing biomedical imaging and diagnostics. The integration of interdisciplinary approaches, innovative synthesis techniques, and functionalization strategies offers promising avenues for the development of next-generation imaging agents and diagnostic tools with enhanced sensitivity, specificity, and biocompatibility.
Using the Bayes Probability Model to Evaluate the Risk of Accidents Caused by the Electronic Chart Display and Information System
Authors: Vojković Lea , Bakota Mario , Kuzmanić Skelin Ana
Published: August 2024

The obligated implementation of the Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS) began ten years ago, and during this time, we could observe different types of familiarization with the system through its users. The incorrect use of the ECDIS is a problem recognized by the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO), and it is caused by disparate levels of education and the quality of courses. Another aspect of the recognized problem is the unequal length of the ECDIS specific course training period through which users acquire type-specific familiarization with the system. Switching between different types of ECDISs makes users more prone to errors until they become fully familiar with the new product system. This paper analyzes seafarers’ knowledge and ECDIS usage over a 6-year period. Based on obtained data, models that enable risk analysis based on conditional probability were created. This paper presents the use of Bayesian modeling to reduce errors in maritime accidents caused by inadequate use of the ECDIS.
A Method for Predicting High-Resolution 3D Variations in Temperature and Salinity Fields Using Multi-Source Ocean Data
Authors: Cao Xiaohu , Liu Chang , Zhang Shaoqing , Gao Feng
Published: August 2024

High-resolution three-dimensional (3D) variations in ocean temperature and salinity fields are of great significance for ocean environment monitoring. Currently, AI-based 3D temperature and salinity field predictions rely on expensive 3D data, and as the prediction period increases, the stacking of high-resolution 3D data greatly increases the difficulty of model training. This paper transforms the prediction of 3D temperature and salinity into the prediction of sea surface elements and the inversion of subsurface temperature and salinity using sea surface elements, by leveraging the relationship between sea surface factors and subsurface temperature and salinity. This method comprehensively utilizes multi-source ocean data to avoid the issue of data volume caused by stacking high-resolution historical data. Specifically, the model first utilizes 1/4° low-resolution satellite remote sensing data to construct prediction models for sea surface temperature (SST) and sea level anomaly (SLA), and then uses 1/12° high-resolution temperature and salinity data as labels to build an inversion model of subsurface temperature and salinity based on SST and SLA. The prediction model and inversion model are integrated to obtain the final high-resolution 3D temperature and salinity prediction model. Experimental results show that the 20-day prediction results in the two sea areas of the coastal waters of China and the Northwest Pacific show good performance, accurately predicting ocean temperature and salinity in the vast majority of layers, and demonstrate higher resource utilization efficiency.
Advanced Characterization and Sample Preparation Strategies for Nanoformulations
Authors: Nadkarni Akanksha , Rana Dhwani , Desai Nimeet , Benival Derajram , Joshi Vishvesh , Salave Sagar , Khunt Dignesh
Published: August 2024

The escalating impact and remarkable progress of nanotechnology have shifted the paradigms of medicine and the healthcare system. Nanosystems have emerged, extensively holding the potential to advance disease diagnosis and treatment specificity. The extraordinary attributes imparted by nano-systems have helped in overcoming the limitations of conventional interventions to an extent and led to targeted therapy, to name one. The role of nanotechnology in diagnosis is another breakthrough in its appellation. This article aims to address the current characterization and sample preparation techniques for the analysis of nanosystems and provide insights into novel methodologies and in situ instrumentation that have eased sampling procedures.
Graph-Based Pan-Genome Reveals the Pattern of Deleterious Mutations during the Domestication of Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Chen Guotao , Shi Guohui , Dai Yi , Zhao Ruilin , Wu Qi
Published: August 2024

The “cost of domestication” hypothesis suggests that the domestication of wild species increases the number, frequency, and/or proportion of deleterious genetic variants, potentially reducing their fitness in the wild. While extensively studied in domesticated species, this phenomenon remains understudied in fungi. Here, we used Saccharomyces cerevisiae, the world’s oldest domesticated fungus, as a model to investigate the genomic characteristics of deleterious variants arising from fungal domestication. Employing a graph-based pan-genome approach, we identified 1,297,761 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), 278,147 insertion/deletion events (indels; <30 bp), and 19,967 non-redundant structural variants (SVs; ≥30 bp) across 687 S. cerevisiae isolates. Comparing these variants with synonymous SNPs (sSNPs) as neutral controls, we found that the majority of the derived nonsynonymous SNPs (nSNPs), indels, and SVs were deleterious. Heterozygosity was positively correlated with the impact of deleterious SNPs, suggesting a role of genetic diversity in mitigating their effects. The domesticated isolates exhibited a higher additive burden of deleterious SNPs (dSNPs) than the wild isolates, but a lower burden of indels and SVs. Moreover, the domesticated S. cerevisiae showed reduced rates of adaptive evolution relative to the wild S. cerevisiae. In summary, deleterious variants tend to be heterozygous, which may mitigate their harmful effects, but they also constrain breeding potential. Addressing deleterious alleles and minimizing the genetic load are crucial considerations for future S. cerevisiae breeding efforts.
Microsporum canis Causes Cutaneous and Extracutaneous Feline Dermatophytic Pseudomycetomas: Molecular Identification and Clinicopathological Characteristics
Authors: Hobi Stefan , Tam Wing Yan Jacqueline , Tse May , Nekouei Omid , Chai Yingfei , Hill Fraser I. , Cheung Edmund , Botes Wietz , Saulnier-Troff Francois , McDermott Colin T. , Barrs Vanessa R.
Published: August 2024

Dermatophytic pseudomycetoma (DPM) is a rarely reported invasive fungal infection of humans and animals, especially cats. This study aimed to identify dermatophytes, breed associations, and the frequency of extracutaneous (EC) involvement in feline DPM. Electronic records and formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue (FFPET) from 32 suspected DPM cases in 30 cats were retrieved from a diagnostic laboratory between 2018 and 2024. To confirm DPM and molecular identity, DNA was extracted from FFPET for ITS2 sequencing, and immunohistochemistry was performed on PCR-negative cases. All cases were confirmed as DPM. Microsporum canis was the only dermatophyte identified. The sensitivity and specificity of ITS2 sequencing for M. canis identification in FFPET were 22/32 (68.8%) and 21/22 (95.5%), respectively. Exotic (36.7%) and Persian (23.3%) but not British breeds (26.3%) were over-represented compared to feline admissions at an affiliated veterinary hospital (8.5%, p < 0.001; 3%, p < 0.001; 21.6%, p = 0.817, respectively). Five cases (16.7%) had EC lesions; two had intra-abdominal masses; two had oral cavity masses, including one which extended into the cranial vault; and one had superficial cervical lymph node invasion. Exotic and Persian breeds are over-represented for DPM and M. canis is the primary cause. EC lesions of DPM may occur more commonly than previously thought.