bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improving Dental Implant Outcomes: CNN-Based System Accurately Measures Degree of Peri-Implantitis Damage on Periapical Film
Authors: Chen Yi-Chieh , Chen Ming-Yi , Chen Tsung-Yi , Chan Mei-Ling , Huang Ya-Yun , Liu Yu-Lin , Lee Pei-Ting , Lin Guan-Jhih , Li Tai-Feng , Chen Chiung-An , Chen Shih-Lun , Li Kuo-Chen , Abu Patricia Angela R.
Published: May 2023

As the popularity of dental implants continues to grow at a rate of about 14% per year, so do the risks associated with the procedure. Complications such as sinusitis and nerve damage are not uncommon, and inadequate cleaning can lead to peri-implantitis around the implant, jeopardizing its stability and potentially necessitating retreatment. To address this issue, this research proposes a new system for evaluating the degree of periodontal damage around implants using Periapical film (PA). The system utilizes two Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) models to accurately detect the location of the implant and assess the extent of damage caused by peri-implantitis. One of the CNN models is designed to determine the location of the implant in the PA with an accuracy of up to 89.31%, while the other model is responsible for assessing the degree of Peri-implantitis damage around the implant, achieving an accuracy of 90.45%. The system combines image cropping based on position information obtained from the first CNN with image enhancement techniques such as Histogram Equalization and Adaptive Histogram Equalization (AHE) to improve the visibility of the implant and gums. The result is a more accurate assessment of whether peri-implantitis has eroded to the first thread, a critical indicator of implant stability. To ensure the ethical and regulatory standards of our research, this proposal has been certified by the Institutional Review Board (IRB) under number 202102023B0C503. With no existing technology to evaluate Peri-implantitis damage around dental implants, this CNN-based system has the potential to revolutionize implant dentistry and improve patient outcomes.
Comparing Performance of Spectral Image Analysis Approaches for Detection of Cellular Signals in Time-Lapse Hyperspectral Imaging Fluorescence Excitation-Scanning Microscopy
Authors: Parker Marina , Annamdevula Naga S. , Pleshinger Donald , Ijaz Zara , Jalkh Josephine , Penn Raymond , Deshpande Deepak , Rich Thomas C. , Leavesley Silas J.
Published: May 2023

Hyperspectral imaging (HSI) technology has been applied in a range of fields for target detection and mixture analysis. While HSI was originally developed for remote sensing applications, modern uses include agriculture, historical document authentication, and medicine. HSI has also shown great utility in fluorescence microscopy. However, traditional fluorescence microscopy HSI systems have suffered from limited signal strength due to the need to filter or disperse the emitted light across many spectral bands. We have previously demonstrated that sampling the fluorescence excitation spectrum may provide an alternative approach with improved signal strength. Here, we report on the use of excitation-scanning HSI for dynamic cell signaling studies—in this case, the study of the second messenger Ca2+. Time-lapse excitation-scanning HSI data of Ca2+ signals in human airway smooth muscle cells (HASMCs) were acquired and analyzed using four spectral analysis algorithms: linear unmixing (LU), spectral angle mapper (SAM), constrained energy minimization (CEM), and matched filter (MF), and the performances were compared. Results indicate that LU and MF provided similar linear responses to increasing Ca2+ and could both be effectively used for excitation-scanning HSI. A theoretical sensitivity framework was used to enable the filtering of analyzed images to reject pixels with signals below a minimum detectable limit. The results indicated that subtle kinetic features might be revealed through pixel filtering. Overall, the results suggest that excitation-scanning HSI can be employed for kinetic measurements of cell signals or other dynamic cellular events and that the selection of an appropriate analysis algorithm and pixel filtering may aid in the extraction of quantitative signal traces. These approaches may be especially helpful for cases where the signal of interest is masked by strong cellular autofluorescence or other competing signals.
Bergmann’s Rule under Rocks: Testing the Influence of Latitude and Temperature on a Chiton from Mexican Marine Ecoregions
Authors: Hernández-P Raquel , Benítez Hugo A. , Ornelas-García Claudia Patricia , Correa Margarita , Suazo Manuel J. , Piñero Daniel
Published: May 2023

Bergmann’s rule relates the trend of increasing body size with higher latitudes, where colder climates are found. In the Mexican Pacific, three marine ecoregions are distinguishable across a latitudinal gradient. Stenoplax limaciformis is an abundant chiton species that is distributed on rocky shores in these ecoregions. Geometric morphometric analyses were performed to describe the shape and size variation of S. limaciformis between marine ecoregions that vary in sea surface temperature with latitude, thus testing Bergmann’s rule. Individuals’ body shape ranged from elongated to wide bodies. Although there was variation in chitons’ body shape and size, the was no evidence of allometry among localities. The Gulf of California is the northernmost ecoregion evaluated in this work, where larger chitons were observed and lower sea surface temperature values were registered. The results suggest that S. limaciformis follows a trend to Bergmann’s rule, such as endotherms. These mollusks do not need heat dissipation, but they do need to retain moisture. In addition, larger chitons were observed in zones with high primary productivity, suggesting that chitons do not delay their maturation due to food shortage.
Exploring the Impact of Contaminants of Emerging Concern on Fish and Invertebrates Physiology in the Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Impellitteri Federica , Multisanti Cristiana Roberta , Rusanova Polina , Piccione Giuseppe , Falco Francesca , Faggio Caterina
Published: May 2023

In this historical context, the Mediterranean Sea faces an increasing threat from emerging pollutants such as pharmaceuticals, personal care products, heavy metals, pesticides and microplastics, which pose a serious risk to the environment and human health. In this regard, aquatic invertebrates and fish are particularly vulnerable to the toxic effects of these pollutants, and several species have been identified as bio-indicators for their detection. Among these, bivalve molluscs and elasmobranchs are now widely used as bio-indicators to accurately assess the effects of contaminants. The study focuses on the catshark Scyliorhinus canicular and on the Mediterranean mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis. The first one is a useful indicator of localised contamination levels due to its exposure to pollutants that accumulate on the seabed. Moreover, it has a high trophic position and plays an important role in the Mediterranean Sea ecosystem. The bivalve mollusc Mytilus galloprovincialis, on the other hand, being a filter-feeding organism, can acquire and bioaccumulate foreign particles present in its environment. Additionally, because it is also a species of commercial interest, it has a direct impact on human health. In conclusion, the increasing presence of emerging pollutants in the Mediterranean Sea is a serious issue that requires immediate attention. Bivalve molluscs and elasmobranchs are two examples of bio-indicators that must be used to precisely determine the effects of these pollutants on the marine ecosystem and human health.
Skeletal Muscle MicroRNA Patterns in Response to a Single Bout of Exercise in Females: Biomarkers for Subsequent Training Adaptation?
Authors: Grieb Alexandra , Schmitt Angelika , Fragasso Annunziata , Widmann Manuel , Mattioni Maturana Felipe , Burgstahler Christof , Erz Gunnar , Schellhorn Philipp , Nieß Andreas M. , Munz Barbara
Published: May 2023

microRNAs (miRs) have been proposed as a promising new class of biomarkers in the context of training adaptation. Using microarray analysis, we studied skeletal muscle miR patterns in sedentary young healthy females (n = 6) before and after a single submaximal bout of endurance exercise (‘reference training’). Subsequently, participants were subjected to a structured training program, consisting of six weeks of moderate-intensity continuous endurance training (MICT) and six weeks of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) in randomized order. In vastus lateralis muscle, we found significant downregulation of myomiRs, specifically miR-1, 133a-3p, and -5p, -133b, and -499a-5p. Similarly, exercise-associated miRs-23a-3p, -378a-5p, -128-3p, -21-5p, -107, -27a-3p, -126-3p, and -152-3p were significantly downregulated, whereas miR-23a-5p was upregulated. Furthermore, in an untargeted approach for differential expression in response to acute exercise, we identified n = 35 miRs that were downregulated and n = 20 miRs that were upregulated by factor 4.5 or more. Remarkably, KEGG pathway analysis indicated central involvement of this set of miRs in fatty acid metabolism. To reproduce these data in a larger cohort of all-female subjects (n = 29), qPCR analysis was carried out on n = 15 miRs selected from the microarray, which confirmed their differential expression. Furthermore, the acute response, i.e., the difference between miR concentrations before and after the reference training, was correlated with changes in maximum oxygen uptake (V̇O2max) in response to the training program. Here, we found that miRs-199a-3p and -19b-3p might be suitable acute-response candidates that correlate with individual degrees of training adaptation in females.
Establishment of a Rodent Glioblastoma Partial Resection Model for Chemotherapy by Local Drug Carriers—Sharing Experience
Authors: Kubelt Carolin , Hellmold Dana , Peschke Eva , Hauck Margarethe , Will Olga , Schütt Fabian , Lucius Ralph , Adelung Rainer , Scherließ Regina , Hövener Jan-Bernd , Jansen Olav , Synowitz Michael , Held-Feindt Janka
Published: May 2023

Local drug delivery systems (LDDS) represent a promising therapy strategy concerning the most common and malignant primary brain tumor glioblastoma (GBM). Nevertheless, to date, only a few systems have been clinically applied, and their success is very limited. Still, numerous new LDDS approaches are currently being developed. Here, (partial resection) GBM animal models play a key role, as such models are needed to evaluate the therapy prior to any human application. However, such models are complex to establish, and only a few reports detail the process. Here, we report our results of establishing a partial resection glioma model in rats suitable for evaluating LDDS. C6-bearing Wistar rats and U87MG-spheroids- and patient-derived glioma stem-like cells-bearing athymic rats underwent tumor resection followed by the implantation of an exemplary LDDS. Inoculation, tumor growth, residual tumor tissue, and GBM recurrence were reliably imaged using high-resolution Magnetic Resonance Imaging. The release from an exemplary LDDS was verified in vitro and in vivo using Fluorescence Molecular Tomography. The presented GBM partial resection model appears to be well suited to determine the efficiency of LDDS. By sharing our expertise, we intend to provide a powerful tool for the future testing of these very promising systems, paving their way into clinical application.
Fibroblast Growth Factor 23: Potential Marker of Invisible Heart Damage in Diabetic Population
Authors: Kurpas Anna , Supel Karolina , Wieczorkiewicz Paulina , Bodalska Duleba Joanna , Zielinska Marzenna
Published: May 2023

Two-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography (2DSTE) detects myocardial dysfunction despite a preserved left ventricular ejection fraction. Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) has become a promising biomarker of cardiovascular risk. This study aimed to determine whether FGF23 may be used as a marker of myocardial damage among patients with diabetes mellitus type 2 (T2DM) and no previous history of myocardial infarction. The study enrolled 71 patients with a median age of 70 years. Laboratory data were analyzed retrospectively. Serum FGF23 levels were determined using a sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. All patients underwent conventional echocardiography and 2DSTE. Baseline characteristics indicated that the median time elapsed since diagnosis with T2DM was 19 years. All subjects were divided into two groups according to left ventricular diastolic function. Individuals with confirmed left ventricular diastolic dysfunction had significantly lower levels of estimated glomerular filtration rate and higher values of hemoglobin A1c. Global circumferential strain (GCS) was reduced in the majority of patients. Only an epicardial GCS correlated significantly with the FGF23 concentration in all patients. The study indicates that a cardiac strain is a reliable tool for a subtle myocardial damage assessment. It is possible that FGF23 may become an early diagnostic marker of myocardial damage in patients with T2DM.
Spatial and Ecological Factors Modulate the Incidence of Anti-NMDAR Encephalitis—A Systematic Review
Authors: Alentorn Agustí , Berzero Giulia , Alexopoulos Harry , Tzartos John , Botero Germán Reyes , Martínez Andrea Morales , Muñiz-Castrillo Sergio , Vogrig Alberto , Joubert Bastien , Jiménez Francisco A. García , Cabrera Dagoberto , Tobon José Vladimir , Delgado Carolina , Sandoval Patricio , Troncoso Mónica , Galleguillos Lorna , Giry Marine , Benazra Marion , Verdin Isaias Hernández , Dade Maëlle , Picard Géraldine , Rogemond Véronique , Weiss Nicolas , Dalakas Marinos C. , Boëlle Pierre-Yves , Delattre Jean-Yves , Honnorat Jérôme , Psimaras Dimitri
Published: May 2023

Anti-NMDAR encephalitis has been associated with multiple antigenic triggers (i.e., ovarian teratomas, prodromal viral infections) but whether geographic, climatic, and environmental factors might influence disease risk has not been explored yet. We performed a systematic review and a meta-analysis of all published papers reporting the incidence of anti-NMDAR encephalitis in a definite country or region. We performed several multivariate spatial autocorrelation analyses to analyze the spatial variations in the incidence of anti-NMDA encephalitis depending on its geographical localization and temperature. Finally, we performed seasonal analyses in two original datasets from France and Greece and assessed the impact of temperature using an exposure-lag-response model in the French dataset. The reported incidence of anti-NMDAR encephalitis varied considerably among studies and countries, being higher in Oceania and South America (0.2 and 0.16 per 100,000 persons-year, respectively) compared to Europe and North America (0.06 per 100,000 persons-year) (p < 0.01). Different regression models confirmed a strong negative correlation with latitude (Pearson’s R = −0.88, p < 0.00001), with higher incidence in southern hemisphere countries far from the equator. Seasonal analyses showed a peak of cases during warm months. Exposure-lag-response models confirmed a positive correlation between extreme hot temperatures and the incidence of anti-NMDAR encephalitis in France (p = 0.03). Temperature analyses showed a significant association with higher mean temperatures and positive correlation with higher ultraviolet exposure worldwide. This study provides the first evidence that geographic and climatic factors including latitude, mean annual temperature, and ultraviolet exposure, might modify disease risk.
Failure without Tears: Two-Step Attachment in a Climbing Cactus
Authors: Rowe Nick P. , Cheng Clavel Lily , Soffiatti Patricia
Published: May 2023

Climbing plants can be extremely adaptable to diverse habitats and capable of colonising perturbed, unstructured, and even moving environments. The timing of the attachment process, whether instantaneous (e.g., a pre-formed hook) or slow (growth process), crucially depends on the environmental context and the evolutionary history of the group concerned. We observed how spines and adhesive roots develop and tested their mechanical strength in the climbing cactus Selenicereus setaceus (Cactaceae) in its natural habitat. Spines are formed on the edges of the triangular cross-section of the climbing stem and originate in soft axillary buds (areoles). Roots are formed in the inner hard core of the stem (wood cylinder) and grow via tunnelling through soft tissue, emerging from the outer skin. We measured maximal spine strength and root strength via simple tensile tests using a field measuring Instron device. Spine and root strengths differ, and this has a biological significance for the support of the stem. Our measurements indicate that the measured mean strength of a single spine could theoretically support an average force of 2.8 N. This corresponds to an equivalent stem length of 2.62 m (mass of 285 g). The measured mean strength of root could theoretically support an average of 13.71 N. This corresponds to a stem length of 12.91 m (mass of 1398 g). We introduce the notion of two-step attachment in climbing plants. In this cactus, the first step deploys hooks that attach to a substrate; this process is instantaneous and is highly adapted for moving environments. The second step involves more solid root attachment to the substrate involving slower growth processes. We discuss how initial fast hook attachment can steady the plant on supports allowing for the slower root attachment. This is likely to be important in wind-prone and moving environmental conditions. We also explore how two-step anchoring mechanisms are of interest for technical applications, particularly for soft-bodied artefacts, which must safely deploy hard and stiff materials originating from a soft compliant body.
Neutrosophic Autocratic Multi-Attribute Decision-Making Strategies for Building Material Supplier Selection
Authors: Nafei Amirhossein , Huang Chien-Yi , Chen Shu-Chuan , Huo Kuang-Zong , Lin Yi-Ching , Nasseri Hadi
Published: May 2023

Because of the intricate nature of real-world scenarios, experts could encounter many ambiguities throughout the decision-making (DM) process. Adopting a DM strategy in conditions of indeterminacy so that the decision makers are limited to a small number of experts is always helpful in real life. Neutrosophic conception is a convenient technique for handling inconsistent, ambiguous, and uncertain values. This research presents an autocratic DM strategy based on Neutrosophic Sets (NSs) to address these ambiguities. The essential component of the suggested technique is the conversion of diverse management decision and weight matrices into a unified evaluation matrix. Supplier Selection (SS) is a multi-criteria decision-making problem where a limited number of alternative suppliers are evaluated using a limited set of criteria. The suggested methodology based on different score functions is applied to SS issues involving construction materials. The numerical illustrations indicate the success of the introduced method in selecting the best supplier with the least computational complexity. The important point obtained in this research is that adopting a suitable score function appropriate to the characteristics of the data plays an important role in the decision-making process.
Long-Term Outcomes after Surgery for Pheochromocytoma and Sympathetic Paraganglioma
Authors: Torresan Francesca , Beber Arianna , Schiavone Donatella , Zovato Stefania , Galuppini Francesca , Crimì Filippo , Ceccato Filippo , Iacobone Maurizio
Published: May 2023

Background: The prognosis of pheochromocytoma and sympathetic paraganglioma (PHEO/sPGL) is difficult to predict at the time of diagnosis and long-term follow-up data are scarce, especially for apparently benign and sporadic variants. The aim of the study was to analyze the long-term outcomes in PHEO/sPGL patients. Methods: A monocentric series of 170 patients who underwent surgery for PHEO/sPGL was analyzed. Results: The study cohort included 91 female and 79 males with a median age of 48 years (range 6–83). The majority of PHEO/sPGL cases were considered apparently benign at the time of diagnosis; evident malignant behavior was found in 5% of cases. The overall 10-year risk of recurrence was 13%, but it rose up to 33% at 30 years. The risk of new tumor recurrence was higher in patients with hereditary tumors, but the risk was still significant in patients with apparently sporadic variants (20-year risk: 38% vs. 6.5%, respectively; p < 0.0001). The risk of metastatic recurrence was higher in patients with locally aggressive tumors at diagnosis, but the risk was present also in apparently benign variants (5-year risk: 100% vs. 1%, respectively; p < 0.0001). Conclusions: Lifelong follow-up is required not only for hereditary PHEO/sPGL but also for apparently benign and sporadic tumors at diagnosis because of the risk of long-term recurrent disease.
Interactions of IDO and the Kynurenine Pathway with Cell Transduction Systems and Metabolism at the Inflammation–Cancer Interface
Authors: Stone Trevor W. , Williams Richard O.
Published: May 2023

The mechanisms underlying a relationship between inflammation and cancer are unclear, but much emphasis has been placed on the role of tryptophan metabolism to kynurenine and downstream metabolites, as these make a substantial contribution to the regulation of immune tolerance and susceptibility to cancer. The proposed link is supported by the induction of tryptophan metabolism by indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) or tryptophan-2,3-dioxygenase (TDO), in response to injury, infection or stress. This review will summarize the kynurenine pathway and will then focus on the bi-directional interactions with other transduction pathways and cancer-related factors. The kynurenine pathway can interact with and modify activity in many other transduction systems, potentially generating an extended web of effects other than the direct effects of kynurenine and its metabolites. Conversely, the pharmacological targeting of those other systems could greatly enhance the efficacy of changes in the kynurenine pathway. Indeed, manipulating those interacting pathways could affect inflammatory status and tumor development indirectly via the kynurenine pathway, while pharmacological modulation of the kynurenine pathway could indirectly influence anti-cancer protection. While current efforts are progressing to account for the failure of selective IDO1 inhibitors to inhibit tumor growth and to devise means of circumventing the issue, it is clear that there are wider factors involving the relationship between kynurenines and cancer that merit detailed consideration as alternative drug targets.
History, Current Techniques, and Future Prospects of Surgery to the Sellar and Parasellar Region
Authors: Rawanduzy Cameron A. , Couldwell William T.
Published: May 2023

The sellar and parasellar region can be affected by diverse pathologies. The deep-seated location and surrounding critical neurovascular structures make treatment challenging; there is no singular, optimal approach for management. The history and development of transcranial and transsphenoidal approaches by pioneers in skull base surgery were largely aimed at treating pituitary adenomas, which are the most common lesions of the sella. This review explores the history of sellar surgery, the most commonly used approaches today, and future considerations for surgery of the sellar/parasellar region.
The Prognostic Impact of ABO Blood Group in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Following Hepatectomy
Authors: Kaibori Masaki , Yoshii Kengo , Matsui Kosuke , Matsushima Hideyuki , Kosaka Hisashi , Yamamoto Hidekazu , Nakajima Takayoshi , Aoi Kazunori , Yamaguchi Takashi , Yoshida Katsunori , Sekimoto Mitsugu
Published: May 2023

Background/Purpose: The effect of the ABO blood group on the survival of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is unclear. The aim of the present study is to determine the prognostic impact of ABO blood types on the survival of a Japanese population of patients with HCC who underwent surgical resection. Methods: Patients with HCC (n = 480) who underwent an R0 resection between 2010 and 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. Survival outcomes were investigated according to ABO blood type (A, B, O, or AB). Outcomes for type A (n = 173) and non-type A (n = 173) groups after surgery were compared using 1-to-1 propensity score matching to control for variables. Results: In the study cohort, 173 (36.0%), 133 (27.7%), 131 (27.3%), and 43 (9.0%) of participants had Type A, O, B, and AB, respectively. Type A and non-type A patients were successfully matched based on liver function and tumor characteristics. Recurrence-free survival (RFS; hazard ratio [HR] 0.75, 95% confidence interval [Cl] 0.58–0.98, p = 0.038) and overall survival (OS; HR: 0.67, 95% Cl: 0.48–0.95, p = 0.023) for patients with blood type A were both significantly decreased relative to non-type A patients. Cox proportional hazard analysis demonstrated that patients with HCC who have blood type A had a worse prognosis than those with non-type A blood. Conclusion: ABO blood type may have a prognostic impact on patients with HCC after hepatectomy. Blood type A is an independent unfavorable prognostic factor for recurrence-free and overall survival (RFS and OS) after hepatectomy.
Ferrous Salt-Catalyzed Oxidative Alkenylation of Indoles: Facile Access to 3-Alkylideneindolin-2-Ones
Authors: Tian Yunfei , Zheng Luping , Chen Ying , Li Yufei , Wang Mengna , Fu Weijun , Li Zejiang
Published: May 2023

The direct oxidative alkenylation of indoles is achieved by ferrous salts under mild conditions, which provides one effective strategy for the synthesis of 3-alkylideneindolin-2-one in a single step. This reaction system features simple and readily available materials, mild conditions, and easy accessibility. The control experiments also demonstrate a radical pathway was involved in the reaction. Moreover, the method performs well on the gram-scale experiment, which indicates that this method enjoys a broad prospect in synthetic chemistry.
Dual-Doping Strategy for Enhancing Hydrogen Evolution on Molybdenum Carbide Catalysts
Authors: Wei Junling , Xu Li , Hu Lihua , Wang Tiejun , Ma Yufei
Published: May 2023

Hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) is a topic of great interest due to its efficient hydrogen production properties, which can address the increasing demand for clean and sustainable energy sources. On the other hand, molybdenum carbide (MoC) has been widely studied due to its noble metal-like surface electronic properties. In the HER process, it is crucial to regulate the Mo−H bonding energy effectively and increase the electron transfer rate on the MoC catalyst surface in a rational manner. In this study, we introduce highly electronegative nitrogen and non-noble transition metal atoms (Cu or Co) into the molybdenum carbide crystal lattice (N−M−MoC, M: Cu, or Co), which leads to a dual—doping effect. This effect results in the rearrangement of the electronic configuration on the catalyst surface and the enrichment of electrons around Mo atom, leading to an optimization in the Mo−H bonding energy. Moreover, the unique two-dimensional nano-sheet structure of the N−M−MoC materials further promotes the electron transfer and exposure of active sites. Benefiting from the above, the HER performance of the N−M−MoC is significantly improved. Among them, N−Cu−MoC exhibits the lowest overpotential (η10 = 158 mV) and highest stability (about 30 h) in alkaline solutions.
Early Childhood Education in Brazil: Child Rights to ECE in Context of Great Disparities
Authors: Raikes Abbie , Alvarenga Lima Jem Heinzel-Nelson , Abuchaim Beatriz
Published: May 2023

One of the world’s largest countries, Brazil’s national policies on early childhood are some of the most progressive and comprehensive in the world. Notable themes in Brazil’s early childhood system include the national protection of children’s rights, the integration of children’s development, starting at birth, into the national education system, and universal preschool education. These rights are juxtaposed against a highly devolved political structure in the context of significant socioeconomic, racial/ethnic, and geographic disparities. As a result, there is variability in access to quality early childhood settings. This case study explores access to quality early childhood education (ECE) for children aged four to six years. We describe the economic and policy contexts of ECE in Brazil, with emphasis on the role of ECE in addressing regional, racial/ethnic, and economic disparities.
Children with an Anorectal Malformation Going to Primary School: The Parent’s Perspective
Authors: de Beaufort Cunera M. C. , Derikx Joep P. M. , Voskeuil Marijke E. , Atay Josef , Kuijper Caroline F. , de Beer Sjoerd A. , de Jong Justin R. , de Bos Arnout , Vennink Svenja , van Heurn L. W. Ernest , Gorter Ramon R.
Published: May 2023

Background: Continence problems occur often in children with anorectal malformations (ARM). The aim of this study was to evaluate parental experiences with toilet facilities at Dutch primary schools and their experience with how schools deal with ARM children. Methods: This survey was developed in collaboration with the national patient advocacy group (PAG). Recruitment for participation was conducted by the PAG (email listing and social media) and one expertise center for ARM. Participants were parents of school-attending ARM children aged 3 to 12 years. Results: Sixty-one participants (31.9%) responded to the survey. The median age of the children was 7.0 years (IQR 5.0–9.0). Schools were often located in a village (63.9%) and encompassed 100–500 children (77.0%). In total, 14 parents (23.0%) experienced difficulties in finding a primary school. Experiences with the school were described as solely positive (37.7%), solely negative (9.8%), positive and negative (34.4%), and neither positive nor negative (16.4%). Regarding school toilet facilities, 65.6% of the toilets were reported clean and 78.7% were easily accessible. Conclusions: About 25% of parents reported difficulties in enrolling their children into primary school, and 45% reported negative experiences. This highlights the need for improved guidance and the optimization of education in schools when dealing with ARM children.
The Influence of Bullying on Positive Emotions and Their Effect as Mediators between Controllable Attributions of Success and Academic Performance
Authors: Ragusa Antonio , Caggiano Valeria , Obregón-Cuesta Ana Isabel , González-Bernal Jerónimo J. , Fernández-Solana Jessica , Mínguez-Mínguez Luis Alberto , León-del-Barco Benito , Mendo-Lázaro Santiago , Di Petrillo Ema , González-Santos Josefa
Published: May 2023

Academic performance (AP) is a topic of particular interest in the academic context. Attributions for academic success (AAS) have been shown to have a significant impact on AP, and more specifically internal controllable attributions (ICA) are closely linked to academic success. Similarly, positive emotions (PE) have a significant influence on AP and may in turn be influenced by bullying. This study examines the connections between ICA of academic success and AP mediated through PE in late primary and early secondary school students and analyzes the relationships between PE and bullying categories. Students (N = 562, 49.46% female, Mage = 11.6 SD = 1.2) reported on their perceptions of ICA and PE in relation to exams and their relationship with bullying through validated questionnaires. The AP was obtained as the average mark of all subjects in the immediately preceding assessment. First, a multiple linear regression analysis considering ICA and PE as predictor variables was carried out, which showed a significantly positive link between ICA and PE, between ICA and AP, and between PE and AP. Subsequently, using the SPSS macro PROCESS, a simple mediation model was implemented to quantify the effect of ICA on AP through PE in exams, and finally an ANOVA between the categories of bullying and PE was performed. The results showed a significant indirect relationship with a positive predictive relationship for AP. The model shows that PE proves to be a significant mediator between ICA and AP, and it is shown that students disengaged from bullying score higher in PE.
The Impact of School Closures during COVID-19 Lockdown on Visual–Motor Integration and Block Design Performance: A Comparison of Two Cohorts of Preschool Children
Authors: Hairol Mohd Izzuddin , Ahmad Mahadir , Muhammad Zihni Muhammad Aminuddin , Saidon Nur Fatin Syazana , Nordin Naufal , Kadar Masne
Published: May 2023

The COVID-19 outbreak has led to the closure of educational institutions, which may prevent children from attaining skills essential for learning, such as visual–motor integration (VMI) and visuospatial constructional ability (often reflected with the Block Design Test, BDT). This study compares VMI and BDT performance between a pre-pandemic cohort (children who attended preschool in late 2019) and a post-pandemic cohort (those physically attending preschool for the first time at the end of 2021). Participants were children attending government preschools with similar syllabi catered for low-income families. The pre-pandemic cohort was part of an earlier study (n = 202 for VMI and n = 220 for BDT) before lockdowns commenced in March 2020. The post-pandemic cohort comprised 197 children who completed the Beery-VMI and 93 children who completed the BDT. Compared to the pre-pandemic cohort, the post-pandemic cohort had significantly lower mean Beery-VMI scores (t(397) = 3.054, p = 0.002) and was 3.162-times more likely to have a below average Beery-VMI score (OR = 3.162 (95% CI 1.349, 7.411)). The post-pandemic cohort also had significantly lower BDT scores than the pre-pandemic cohort (t(311) = −5.866, p < 0.001). In conclusion, children with disrupted conventional preschool education due to the COVID-19 lockdowns were more likely to have below-average VMI and lower BDT scores.
Characterization of Mammary Tumors Arising from MMTV-PyVT Transgenic Mice
Authors: Liu Chien-Liang , Huang Wen-Chien , Cheng Shih-Ping , Chen Ming-Jen , Lin Chi-Hsin , Chang Shao-Chiang , Chang Yuan-Ching
Published: May 2023

Among genetically engineered mouse models of breast cancer, MMTV-PyVT is a mouse strain in which the oncogenic polyoma virus middle T antigen is driven by the mouse mammary tumor virus promoter. The aim of the present study was to perform morphologic and genetic analyses of mammary tumors arising from MMTV-PyVT mice. To this end, mammary tumors were obtained at 6, 9, 12, and 16 weeks of age for histology and whole-mount analyses. We conducted whole-exome sequencing to identify constitutional and tumor-specific mutations, and genetic variants were identified using the GRCm38/mm10 mouse reference genome. Using hematoxylin and eosin analysis and whole-mount carmine alum staining, we demonstrated the progressive proliferation and invasion of mammary tumors. Frameshift insertions/deletions (indels) were noted in the Muc4. Mammary tumors showed small indels and nonsynonymous single-nucleotide variants but no somatic structural alterations or copy number variations. In summary, we validated MMTV-PyVT transgenic mice as a multistage model for mammary carcinoma development and progression. Our characterization may be used as a reference for guidance in future research.
The Role of GLP1-RAs in Direct Modulation of Lipid Metabolism in Hepatic Tissue as Determined Using In Vitro Models of NAFLD
Authors: Petrovic Ana , Igrec Dunja , Rozac Karla , Bojanic Kristina , Kuna Lucija , Kolaric Tea Omanovic , Mihaljevic Vjera , Sikora Renata , Smolic Robert , Glasnovic Marija , Wu George Y. , Smolic Martina
Published: May 2023

Glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) have been shown to improve glucose and lipid homeostasis, promote weight loss, and reduce cardiovascular risk factors. They are a promising therapeutic option for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), the most common liver disease, associated with T2DM, obesity, and metabolic syndrome. GLP-1RAs have been approved for the treatment of T2DM and obesity, but not for NAFLD. Most recent clinical trials have suggested the importance of early pharmacologic intervention with GLP-1RAs in alleviating and limiting NAFLD, as well as highlighting the relative scarcity of in vitro studies on semaglutide, indicating the need for further research. However, extra-hepatic factors contribute to the GLP-1RA results of in vivo studies. Cell culture models of NAFLD can be helpful in eliminating extrahepatic effects on the alleviation of hepatic steatosis, modulation of lipid metabolism pathways, reduction of inflammation, and prevention of the progression of NAFLD to severe hepatic conditions. In this review article, we discuss the role of GLP-1 and GLP-1RA in the treatment of NAFLD using human hepatocyte models.
Thermal Insulation of Hybrid GFRP-Lightweight Concrete Structures
Authors: Arruda Mário R. T. , Cantor Pedro , Bicelli Renato
Published: May 2023

This paper presents a numerical study on the thermal effect of the insulation of lightweight concrete in hybrid GFRP-concrete structures. In these hybrid structures, the GFRP profiles are totally covered by normal and lightweight concrete and subjected to thermal loads. The problem with GFRP structures is their weak thermal resistance, even at moderately high temperatures. To promote some thermal insulation, it is recommended to cover the GFRP profile with concrete, but this increases its weight. Therefore, lightweight concrete may be a good solution due to its insulation capabilities. For this study, the thermal loads used in the numerical campaign are based on a nominal fire-curved ISO-834, and the temperature is measured at several points. Using these temperatures, it is possible to conclude that the effect of lightweight concrete may provide structural benefits when compared with classical standard structural concrete for covering GFRP profiles using different cover values (from 5.0 cm to 2.5 cm). For this work, commercial finite element software was used for the thermal nonlinear analysis. It was possible to conclude that with lightweight concrete, it is likely to have half of the cover and still maintain the same level of insulation as regular concrete.
De-Sealing Reverses Habitat Decay More Than Increasing Groundcover Vegetation
Authors: Couch Virginia Thompson , Salata Stefano , Saygin Nicel , Frary Anne , Arslan Bertan
Published: May 2023

Modeling ecosystem services is a growing trend in scientific research, and Nature-based Solutions (NbSs) are increasingly used by land-use planners and environmental designers to achieve improved adaptation to climate change and mitigation of the negative effects of climate change. Predictions of ecological benefits of NbSs are needed early in design to support decision making. In this study, we used ecological analysis to predict the benefits of two NbSs applied to a university masterplan and adjusted our preliminary design strategy according to the first modeling results. Our Area of Interest was the IZTECH campus, which is located in a rural area of the eastern Mediterranean region (Izmir/Turkey). A primary design goal was to improve habitat quality by revitalizing soil. Customized analysis of the Baseline Condition and two NbSs scenarios was achieved by using local values obtained from a high-resolution photogrammetric scan of the catchment to produce flow accumulation and habitat quality indexes. Results indicate that anthropogenic features are the primary cause of habitat decay and that decreasing imperviousness reduces habitat decay significantly more than adding vegetation. This study creates a method of supporting sustainability goals by quickly testing alternative NbSs. The main innovation is demonstrating that early approximation of the ecological benefits of NbSs can inform preliminary design strategy. The proposed model may be calibrated to address specific environmental challenges of a given location and test other forms of NbSs.
CrohnDB: A Web Database for Expression Profiling of Protein-Coding and Long Non-Coding RNA Genes in Crohn Disease
Authors: Distefano Rebecca , Ilieva Mirolyuba , Madsen Jens Hedelund , Uchida Shizuka
Published: May 2023

Crohn disease (CD) is a type of inflammatory bowel disease that causes inflammation in the digestive tract. Cases of CD are increasing worldwide, calling for more research to elucidate the pathogenesis of CD. For this purpose, the usage of the RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) technique is increasingly appreciated, as it captures RNA expression patterns at a particular time point in a high-throughput manner. Although many RNA-seq datasets are generated from CD patients and compared to those of healthy donors, most of these datasets are analyzed only for protein-coding genes, leaving non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) undiscovered. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are any ncRNAs that are longer than 200 nucleotides. Interest in studying lncRNAs is increasing rapidly, as lncRNAs bind other macromolecules (DNA, RNA, and/or proteins) to finetune signaling pathways. To fill the gap in knowledge about lncRNAs in CD, we performed secondary analysis of published RNA-seq data of CD patients compared to healthy donors to identify lncRNA genes and their expression changes. To further facilitate lncRNA research in CD, we built a web database, CrohnDB, to provide a one-stop-shop for expression profiling of protein-coding and lncRNA genes in CD patients compared to healthy donors.
Atomic Structure of Mn-Doped CoFe2O4 Nanoparticles for Metal–Air Battery Applications
Authors: Pussi Katariina , Ding Keying , Barbiellini Bernardo , Ohara Koji , Yamada Hiroki , Onuh Chuka , McBride James , Bansil Arun , Chiang Ray K. , Kamali Saeed
Published: May 2023

We discuss the atomic structure of cobalt ferrite nanoparticles doped with Mn via an analysis based on combining atomic pair distribution functions with high energy X-ray diffraction and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy measurements. Cobalt ferrite nanoparticles are promising materials for metal–air battery applications. Cobalt ferrites, however, generally show poor electronic conductivity at ambient temperatures, which limits their bifunctional catalytic performance in oxygen electrocatalysis. Our study reveals how the introduction of Mn ions promotes the conductivity of the cobalt ferrite electrode.
Assessment of Serum Electrolytes, Biochemical, and Inflammatory Markers in Predicting COVID-19 Severity in COPD Patients
Authors: Mim Farzana , Reza Md. Selim , Khalil Md. Ibrahim , Karim Nurul , Shahjalal Hussain Md. , Hossain Md. Ibrahim , Hossain Md. Sabir
Published: May 2023

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the most prevalent long-term respiratory condition. Patients with COPD experience detrimental effects of COVID-19 infection. Objective: To figure out whether COPD is a risk factor influencing the progression of COVID-19 and to explore the clinical value of laboratory biomarkers to assess the severity of COVID-19 in patients with COPD comorbidity. Methods: In total, 1572 participants aged 35 to 70 years were enrolled to a tertiary hospital in Bangladesh between March 2022 and October 2022. Participants were categorized into four groups: (1) control, (2) COPD, (3) COVID-19, and (4) COVID-19 with COPD, and blood levels of clinical laboratory markers were assessed to analyze how these markers differ among the study groups. Results: COVID-19 patients with COPD had a significantly lower level of sodium (131.81 ± 2.8 mmol/L) and calcium (1.91 ± 0.28 mmol/L), and a significantly higher level of NT-proBNP (568.45 ± 207.40 pg/mL), bilirubin (1.34 ± 0.54 mg/dL), fibrinogen (577.27 ± 145.24 mg/dL), D-dimer (2.97 ± 2.25 μg/mL), C-reactive protein (71.08 ± 62.42 mg/L), interleukin-6 (166.47 ± 174.39 pg/mL), and procalcitonin (0.25 ± 0.30 ng/mL) compared to other study groups patients (p < 0.0001). In addition, the GOLD 4 group demonstrated significantly altered clinical parameters among COVID-19 patients with COPD. Furthermore, NT-proBNP, interleukin 6, D-dimer, C-reactive protein, and fibrinogen demonstrated excellent diagnostic performance in predicting disease severity among the COVID-19 patients with COPD, with a cut-off value of 511.2 pg/mL, 51.375 pg/mL, 1.645 μg/mL, 40.2 mg/L, and 510 mg/dL, respectively. Our results also indicate that inflammatory markers had significant positive correlations with the biochemical and coagulation markers in the COVID-19 patients suffering with COPD (p < 0.0001). Conclusions: NT-proBNP, interleukin 6, D-dimer, C-reactive protein, and fibrinogen are the most potential parameters for differentiating severe cases of COVID-19.
Development of Conventional Multiplex PCR Assays for the Identification of 21 West Palaearctic Biting Midge Taxa (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) Belonging to the Culicoides Subgenus Culicoides, including Recently Discovered Species and Genetic Variants
Authors: Dähn Oliver , Werner Doreen , Mathieu Bruno , Kampen Helge
Published: May 2023

In 2006 and 2011, two biting-midge-borne arboviruses of high veterinary importance emerged for the first time in Central Europe: bluetongue virus (BTV) and Schmallenberg virus (SBV). Members of the native Obsoletus and Pulicaris Groups were soon identified as the potential vectors. However, despite several years of extensive taxonomic research on these groups, correct species identification and differentiation from closely related species are still challenging due to isomorphic features, the existence of cryptic species and obsolete PCR identification assays. At present, 17 valid West Palaearctic biting midge species of the Culicoides subgenus Culicoides, including the Pulicaris Group, are known, and additional genetic variants have been described. For many of them, no identification tests are available, and their roles in disease transmission have remained unknown. In this study, 465 GenBank DNA sequence entries of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene were used to design PCR primers as specific genetic markers for 21 West Palaearctic biting midge taxa of the Culicoides subgenus Culicoides. During their validation with DNA from field-collected biting midges and synthetic DNA from biting midge genotypes not available from the field, all primers detected their target taxa, while few showed cross-reactions. Our results indicate the great potential of the new primers in PCR assays and clearly demonstrate the suitability of the COI gene as an excellent marker for the identification of different biting midge species and genetic variants of the Culicoides subgenus Culicoides.
Henneguya correai n. sp. (Cnidaria, Myxozoa) Parasitizing the Fins of the Amazonian Fish Semaprochilodus insignis
Authors: Müller Maria , Figueredo Rayline , Atkinson Stephen , Bartholomew Jerri , Adriano Edson
Published: May 2023

We used a combination of morphological, molecular and biological data to characterize a novel Henneguya (Myxozoa) species infecting the Amazonian prochilodontid Semaprochilodus insignis or “kissing prochilodus”, a popular food fish and aquarium species in the Brazilian Amazon. Twenty-one S. insignis were caught live from the Tapajós river, Pará State, Brazil, then examined for myxozoan infections. Cysts of a novel Henneguya species were observed in the connective tissue of the fins. Myxospores measured 48 ± 4.9 (39.5–60.8) µm total length, of which caudal appendages were 33 ± 4.5 (26.4–45.2) µm and spore body was 15 ± 1.6 (12.4–20.5) µm. The spore body was 4.0 ± 0.6 (2.7–5.3) µm wide × 3.2 ± 0.4 (2.7–3.6) µm thick, with two unequal polar capsules (nematocysts) 7.2 ±0.8 (5.2–8.3) × 1.5 ± 0.3 (1.0–2.2) µm for the larger capsule and 5 ± 0.7 (4.0–6.3) × 1.4 ± 0.2 (1.0–1.8) µm for the smaller capsule. Polar tubules had 8–13 turns. Generative cells, immature and mature myxospores were observed within plasmodia. Ultrastructure showed plasmodia surrounded by collagen fibers, with the plasmodial membrane having pinocytotic channels. Phylogenetic analysis of small subunit ribosomal DNA sequences showed that the new Henneguya species clustered as a sister taxon to Henneguya tietensis, a parasite of the gills of the prochilodontid fish Prochilodus lineatus, from the geographically distant Paraná–Paraguai River basin.