bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Disturbance Frequency Trajectory Prediction in Power Systems Based on LightGBM Spearman
Authors: Xing Chao , Liu Mingqun , Peng Junzhen , Wang Yuhong , Liu Yixiong , Gao Shilin , Zheng Zongsheng , Liao Jianquan
Published: January 2024

Addressing the issue of reduced system inertia and significantly increased risk of system frequency deviation due to high penetration of renewable energy sources, this paper proposes a power system disturbance frequency trajectory prediction method based on light gradient boosting machine (LightGBM) Spearman to provide data support for advanced system stability judgment and the initiation of stability control measures. Firstly, the optimal cluster is determined by combining the K-means clustering algorithm with the elbow method to eliminate redundant electrical quantities. Subsequently, the Spearman coefficient is used to analyze feature correlation and filter out electrical quantities that are strongly correlated with frequency stability. Finally, a frequency trajectory prediction model is built based on LightGBM to achieve accurate prediction of disturbed frequency trajectories. The method is validated using a case study on the New England 10-machine 39-bus system constructed on the CloudPSS 4.0 full electromagnetic cloud simulation platform, and the results show that the proposed method has high accuracy in frequency trajectory prediction.
Remaining Useful Life Prediction of Electromagnetic Release Based on Whale Optimization Algorithm—Particle Filtering
Authors: Su Xiuping , Zhang Zhilin , Wei Jiaxin
Published: January 2024

The DC circuit breaker is a crucial equipment for eliminating faults in DC transmission lines. The electromagnetic release functions as a critical component that restricts the circuit breaker’s lifespan. It is essential to prioritize its safety and reliability during usage and predicting its remaining useful life (RUL) is paramount. This paper proposes a new prediction technique based on particle filtering (PF) and the whale optimization algorithm (WOA) for the remaining useful life of electromagnetic release. The particle filtering algorithm is a commonly used technique in practical engineering fields such as target tracking and RUL prediction. It is a mainstream method for solving the parameter estimation of non-linear non-Gaussian systems. The WOA is introduced to improve the PF algorithm in order to ensure the diversity of particles and lessen the effect of particle degradation. The WOA replaces the traditional resampling process, and after each computation is finished, the weights of the particles in the particle set are reassigned in order to improve the particle distribution and increase algorithm accuracy. The rate of loss of the spring reaction force and the striker counterforce are chosen as the degradation characteristics after the degradation factors of electromagnetic release are analyzed. The degradation curves at different temperatures of electromagnetic release are obtained using the accelerated life test, and the full-life data during normal operation are derived using the Arrhenius equation. Finally, the RUL is predicted by comparing this paper’s method with the conventional PF method. The experimental results demonstrate that the method presented in this paper can more accurately predict the RUL of the electromagnetic release and has a higher prediction accuracy.
Energizing the Now: Navigating the Critical Landscape of Today’s Energy Challenges—An In-Depth Review
Authors: Popescu Catalin , Apostu Simona Andreea , Rădulescu Irina Gabriela , Mureșan Jianu Daniel , Brezoi Alina Gabriela
Published: January 2024

Today’s energy challenges are multifaceted. Over the past 30–40 years, energy issues have been discussed and published on an extensive scale. The green transition involves concrete actions related to increasing energy efficiency, replacing fossil fuels with alternative fuels, producing energy using renewable resources, creating various means of transport that use electric motors, identifying technical solutions that generate an increased energy yield in the case of buildings, and waste reduction, reuse and recycling. In order to attain a climate-neutral environment, it is mandatory to impose regulations, measures and actions to help decarbonize the energy sector. The analysis of published articles on these issues is the subject of this large and information-dense review. Concretely, the transition to climate neutrality will generate obvious advantages at an economic, social and technological level, for example, the opportunity for economic growth, new business models and new markets, and the generation of new jobs or technological development. At the same time, this paper underscores the need for a multifaceted approach, integrating technological innovation, policy intervention and global cooperation for an effective energy transformation. The review suggests future issues and research directions, focusing on viable strategies for energy transition and its socio-economic environmental impacts.
Research Progress on Heavy Metal Passivators and Passivation Mechanisms of Organic Solid Waste Compost: A Review
Authors: Zhong Yuanping , Yang Wenqing , Zhuo Qian , Cao Zhi , Chen Qinghua , Xiao Liren
Published: January 2024

Organic solid waste is a renewable resource as it can be transformed into a valuable product through various technologies. Composting is considered to be the most economical and effective technology for treating organic solid waste, but excessive amounts of heavy metals in organic solid waste compost are harmful to the environment. The current focus is on the addition of heavy metal passivators to organic solid waste to reduce the mobility and biotoxicity of heavy metals in situ or ex situ. The aims of this paper are to provide an overview of heavy metal passivators and their passivation mechanisms in the field of organic solid waste composting and to provide a reference for research on the control of heavy metal pollution in the treatment of organic solid waste.
Efficient Privacy-Aware Forwarding for Enhanced Communication Privacy in Opportunistic Mobile Social Networks
Authors: Assiri Azizah , Sallay Hassen
Published: January 2024

Opportunistic mobile social networks (OMSNs) have become increasingly popular in recent years due to the rise of social media and smartphones. However, message forwarding and sharing social information through intermediary nodes on OMSNs raises privacy concerns as personal data and activities become more exposed. Therefore, maintaining privacy without limiting efficient social interaction is a challenging task. This paper addresses this specific problem of safeguarding user privacy during message forwarding by integrating a privacy layer on the state-of-the-art OMSN routing decision models that empowers users to control their message dissemination. Mainly, we present three user-centric privacy-aware forwarding modes guiding the selection of the next hop in the forwarding path based on social metrics such as common friends and exchanged messages between OMSN nodes. More specifically, we define different social relationship strengths approximating real-world scenarios (familiar, weak tie, stranger) and trust thresholds to give users choices on trust levels for different social contexts and guide the routing decisions. We evaluate the privacy enhancement and network performance through extensive simulations using ONE simulator for several routing schemes (Epidemic, Prophet, and Spray and Wait) and different movement models (random way, bus, and working day). We demonstrate that our modes can enhance privacy by up to 45% in various network scenarios, as measured by the reduction in the likelihood of unintended message propagation, while keeping the message-delivery process effective and efficient.
Effect of Combined High-Pressure Homogenization and Biotechnological Processes on Chitin, Protein, and Antioxidant Activity of Cricket Powder-Based Ingredients
Authors: Rossi Samantha , Gottardi Davide , Barbiroli Alberto , Di Nunzio Mattia , Siroli Lorenzo , Braschi Giacomo , Schlüter Oliver , Patrignani Francesca , Lanciotti Rosalba
Published: January 2024

The main objective of this work was to evaluate the combined effect of a biotechnology process, based on selected yeast strains, and a high-pressure homogenization (HPH) treatment on the microbiological quality, structural organization of proteins, chitin content, and antioxidant activity of a mixture of cricket powder (Acheta domesticus) and water. Compared to untreated samples, the cricket matrix treated with HPH four times at 180 MPa promoted the growth of the inoculated Yarrowia lipolytica and Debaryomyces hansenii strains. HPH did not affect the concentration of chitin; however, the combination with microorganisms tended to reduce the content. Although the antioxidant activity increased from 0.52 to 0.68 TAC mM/TE after a 48 h incubation in the control, it was further improved by the combination of HPH and D. hansenii metabolism, reaching a value of 0.77 TAC mM/TE. The combination of the two approaches also promoted a reduction in the intensity of bands with molecular weights between 31 and 21.5 kDa in favor of bands with a lower molecular weight. In addition, HPH treatment reduced the number of accessible thiols, suggesting protein structure changes that may further impact the technological properties of cricket powder.
Food Waste from Campus Dining Hall as a Potential Feedstock for 2,3-Butanediol Production via Non-Sterilized Fermentation
Authors: Caldwell Alicia , Su Xueqian , Jin Qing , Hemphill Phyllicia , Jaha Doaa , Nard Sonecia , Tiriveedhi Venkataswarup , Huang Haibo , OHair Joshua
Published: January 2024

Food waste is a major issue that is increasingly affecting our environment. More than one-third of food is wasted, resulting in over $400 billion in losses to the U.S. economy. While composting and other small recycling practices are encouraged from person-to-person, it is not enough to balance the net loss of 80 million tons per year. Currently, one of the most promising routes for reducing food waste is through microbial fermentation, which can convert the waste into valuable bioproducts. Among the compounds produced from fermentation, 2,3-butanediol (2,3-BDO) has gained interest recently due to its molecular structure as a building block for many other derivatives used in perfumes, synthetic rubber, fumigants, antifreeze agents, fuel additives, and pharmaceuticals. Waste feedstocks, such as food waste, are a potential source of renewable energy due to their lack of cost and availability. Food waste also possesses microbial requirements for growth such as carbohydrates, proteins, fats, and more. However, food waste is highly inconsistent and the variability in composition may hinder its ability to be a stable source for bioproducts such as 2,3-BDO. This current study focuses specifically on post-consumer food waste and how 2,3-BDO can be produced through a non-model organism, Bacillus licheniformis YNP5-TSU during non-sterile fermentation. From the dining hall at Tennessee State University, 13 food waste samples were collected over a 6-month period and the compositional analysis was performed. On average, these samples consisted of fat (19.7%), protein (18.7%), ash (4.8%), fiber (3.4%), starch (27.1%), and soluble sugars (20.9%) on a dry basis with an average moisture content of 34.7%. Food waste samples were also assessed for their potential production of 2,3-BDO during non-sterile thermophilic fermentation, resulting in a max titer of 12.12 g/L and a 33% g/g yield of 2,3-BDO/carbohydrates. These findings are promising and can lead to the better understanding of food waste as a defined feedstock for 2,3-BDO and other fermentation end-products.
An Efficient Cubic B-Spline Technique for Solving the Time Fractional Coupled Viscous Burgers Equation
Authors: Ghafoor Usama , Abbas Muhammad , Akram Tayyaba , El-Shewy Emad K. , Abdelrahman Mahmoud A. E. , Abdo Noura F.
Published: January 2024

The second order Burger’s equation model is used to study the turbulent fluids, suspensions, shock waves, and the propagation of shallow water waves. In the present research, we investigate a numerical solution to the time fractional coupled-Burgers equation (TFCBE) using Crank–Nicolson and the cubic B-spline (CBS) approaches. The time derivative is addressed using Caputo’s formula, while the CBS technique with the help of a θ-weighted scheme is utilized to discretize the first- and second-order spatial derivatives. The quasi-linearization technique is used to linearize the non-linear terms. The suggested scheme demonstrates unconditionally stable. Some numerical tests are utilized to evaluate the accuracy and feasibility of the current technique.
Platelet Count/Spleen Diameter Ratio as a Non-Invasive Predictor of Esophageal Varices in Cirrhotic Patients: A Single-Center Experience
Authors: Patil Srinith , Patnaik Swarup Kumar , Kanungo Manjit , Uthansingh Kanishka , Narayan Jimmy , Pradhan Subhasis , Mishra Debakanta , Sahu Manoj Kumar , Pati Girish Kumar
Published: January 2024

(1) Background: The current study examined the correlations between platelet count (PC), spleen diameter (SD), and their ratio to establish a non-invasive technique for predicting the presence of oesophageal varices in cirrhotic patients. (2) Methods: The current study was an observational study conducted in the Gastroenterology Department at IMS and SUM Hospital from November 2019 to November 2021. Consecutive cirrhotic patients without a history of gastrointestinal bleeding were enrolled in the study, and the esophageal varices were assessed. The patients underwent the necessary tests, including upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, liver function testing, abdominal ultrasonography, and full hemograms. All these parameters were analyzed statistically through SPSS version 23, and p ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant. (3) Results: There were significant differences between cases with and without esophageal varices in the following parameters: PC, SD and their ratio, hemoglobin, and ALT level. The PC/SD ratio of ≤ 1400 was associated with a sensitivity of 90.9%, specificity of 80.8%, and a positive predictive value of 82.56% in predicting the presence of oesophageal varices, as per receiver operating curve (ROC) analysis in our study. (4) Conclusions: Esophageal varices can be predicted non-invasively using the platelet count, spleen diameter, and PC/SD ratio.
The Prognostic Utility of KRAS Mutations in Tissue and Circulating Tumour DNA in Colorectal Cancer Patients
Authors: Petit Joel , Carroll Georgia , Zhao Jie , Pockney Peter , Scott Rodney J.
Published: January 2024

This study aims to investigate the long-term prognostic utility of circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) KRAS mutations in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients and compare this with KRAS mutations in matched tissue samples. Tumour tissue (n = 107) and ctDNA (n = 80) were obtained from patients undergoing CRC resection and were analysed for KRAS mutations. The associations between KRAS mutation and overall survival (OS), cancer-specific survival (CSS), and recurrence-free survival (RFS) were analysed. All outcomes were measured in years (y). A total of 28.8% of patients had KRAS mutations in ctDNA and 72.9% in tumour tissue DNA. The high frequency of KRAS mutations in tissue samples was due to 51.4% of these being a detectable low mutation allele frequency (<10% MAF). Comparing KRAS mutant (KRASmut) to KRAS wild-type (KRASwt) in ctDNA, there was no association found with OS (mean 4.67 y vs. 4.34 y, p = 0.832), CSS (mean 4.72 y vs. 4.49 y, p = 0.747), or RFS (mean 3.89 y vs. 4.26 y, p = 0.616). Similarly, comparing KRASmut to KRASwt in tissue DNA there was no association found with OS (mean 4.23 y vs. 4.61 y, p = 0.193), CSS (mean 4.41 y vs. 4.71 y, p = 0.312), or RFS (mean 4.16 y vs. 4.41 y, p = 0.443). There was no significant association found between KRAS mutations in either tissue or ctDNA and OS, CSS, or RFS.
Quality, Thermo-Rheology, and Microstructure Characteristics of Cubic Fat Substituted Pork Patties with Composite Emulsion Gel Composed of Konjac Glucomannan and Soy Protein Isolate
Authors: Wei Lai , Ren Yuqing , Huang Lu , Ye Xinnan , Li He , Li Jian , Cao Jinnuo , Liu Xinqi
Published: January 2024

Composite emulsion gel can effectively mimic animal adipose tissue. In this study, composite emulsion gels composed of soy protein isolates and konjac glucomannan (KGM) were prepared as plant-based cubic fat substitutes (CFS). The effects of CFS on the quality and structure of pork patties were investigated in terms of the proximate composition, lipid oxidation stability, technological characteristics, color, sensory attributes, texture, thermo-rheological behavior, and microstructure. CFS samples composed of various ratios of KGM were added to lean meat patties to ascertain the optimal CFS composition for its potential replacement of pork back fat in patties. The addition of CFS containing 7.0% KGM was found to decrease the hardness of the lean meat patties by 71.98% while simultaneously improving their sensory quality. The replacement of pork back fat with CFS also reduced the fat content of the patties to as little as 3.65%. Furthermore, the addition of CFS enhanced the technological characteristics, lipid oxidation stability, and surface color of the fat-replaced patties, with no significant impact on their overall acceptability. The gel network of the patties was shown to be fine and remained compact as the fat replacement ratio increased to 75%, while the texture parameters, storage modulus, and fractal dimension all increased. Quality and structure improvements may allow the composite emulsion gels to replace fat in pork patties to support a healthy diet. This study may be beneficial for the application and development of plant-based cubic fat substitutes.
HERVs: Expression Control Mechanisms and Interactions in Diseases and Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection
Authors: Mantovani Federica , Kitsou Konstantina , Magiorkinis Gkikas
Published: January 2024

Human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) are the result of retroviral infections acquired millions of years ago; nowadays, they compose around 8% of human DNA. Multiple mechanisms have been employed for endogenous retroviral deactivation, rendering replication and retrotransposition defective, while some of them have been co-opted to serve host evolutionary advantages. A pleiad of mechanisms retains the delicate balance of HERV expression in modern humans. Thus, epigenetic modifications, such as DNA and histone methylation, acetylation, deamination, chromatin remodeling, and even post-transcriptional control are recruited. In this review, we aim to summarize the main HERV silencing pathways, revisit paradigms of human disease with a HERV component, and emphasize the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and HERV interactions during HIV infection.
Sequence Analysis of Six Candidate Genes in Miniature Schnauzers with Primary Hypertriglyceridemia
Authors: Tate Nicole M. , Underwood Michaela , Thomas-Hollands Alison , Minor Katie M. , Cullen Jonah N. , Friedenberg Steven G. , Mickelson James R. , Xenoulis Panagiotis G. , Steiner Joerg M. , Furrow Eva
Published: January 2024

Miniature Schnauzers are predisposed to primary hypertriglyceridemia (HTG). In this study, we performed whole genome sequencing (WGS) of eight Miniature Schnauzers with primary HTG and screened for risk variants in six HTG candidate genes: LPL, APOC2, APOA5, GPIHBP1, LMF1, and APOE. Variants were filtered to identify those present in ≥2 Miniature Schnauzers with primary HTG and uncommon (<10% allele frequency) in a WGS variant database including 613 dogs from 61 other breeds. Three variants passed filtering: an APOE TATA box deletion, an LMF1 intronic SNP, and a GPIHBP1 missense variant. The APOE and GPIHBP1 variants were genotyped in a cohort of 108 Miniature Schnauzers, including 68 with primary HTG and 40 controls. A multivariable regression model, including age and sex, did not identify an effect of APOE (estimate = 0.18, std. error = 0.14; p = 0.20) or GPIHBP1 genotypes (estimate = −0.26, std. error = 0.42; p = 0.54) on triglyceride concentration. In conclusion, we did not identify a monogenic cause for primary HTG in Miniature Schnauzers in the six genes evaluated. However, if HTG in Miniature Schnauzers is a complex disease resulting from the cumulative effects of multiple variants and environment, the identified variants cannot be ruled out as contributing factors.
Spitz Melanocytic Tumors: A Fascinating 75-Year Journey
Authors: Chatzopoulos Kyriakos , Syrnioti Antonia , Linos Konstantinos
Published: January 2024

Over the last 75 years, our understanding of Spitz lesions has undergone substantial evolution. Initially considered a specific type of melanoma, the perception has shifted towards recognizing Spitz lesions as a spectrum comprising Spitz nevi, Spitz melanocytomas, and Spitz melanomas. Spitz lesions are known for posing a significant diagnostic challenge regarding the distinction between benign neoplasms displaying atypical traits and melanomas. A comprehensive understanding of their molecular basis and genomic aberrations has significantly improved precision in classifying and diagnosing these challenging lesions. The primary aim of this review is to encapsulate the current understanding of the molecular pathogenesis and distinct clinicopathologic characteristics defining this intriguing set of tumors.
Exploring Multi-Tissue Alternative Splicing and Skeletal Muscle Metabolism Regulation in Obese- and Lean-Type Pigs
Authors: Wang Wei , Li Wangchang , Liu Weiwei , Wang Zishuai , Xie Bingkun , Yang Xiaogan , Tang Zhonglin
Published: January 2024

Alternative splicing (AS) is a crucial mechanism in post-transcriptional regulation, contributing significantly to the diversity of the transcriptome and proteome. In this study, we performed a comprehensive AS profile in nine tissues obtained from Duroc (lean-type) and Luchuan (obese-type) pigs. Notably, 94,990 AS events from 14,393 genes were identified. Among these AS events, it was observed that 80% belonged to the skipped exon (SE) type. Functional enrichment analysis showed that genes with more than ten AS events were closely associated with tissue-specific functions. Additionally, the analysis of overlap between differentially alternative splicing genes (DSGs) and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) revealed the highest number of overlapped genes in the heart and skeletal muscle. The novelty of our study is that it identified and validated three genes (PYGM, MAPK11 and CAMK2B) in the glucagon signaling pathway, and their alternative splicing differences were highly significant across two pig breeds. In conclusion, our study offers novel insights into the molecular regulation of diverse tissue physiologies and the phenotypic differences between obese- and lean-type pigs, which are helpful for pig breeding.
The Impact of Limited English Proficiency on Healthcare Access and Outcomes in the U.S.: A Scoping Review
Authors: Twersky Sylvia E. , Jefferson Rebeca , Garcia-Ortiz Lisbet , Williams Erin , Pina Carol
Published: January 2024

A majority of individuals with limited English proficiency (LEP) in the U.S. are foreign-born, creating a complex intersection of language, socio-economic, and policy barriers to healthcare access and achieving good outcomes. Mapping the research literature is key to addressing how LEP intersects with healthcare. This scoping review followed PRISMA-ScR guidelines and included PubMed/MEDLINE, CINAHL, Sociological Abstracts, EconLit, and Academic Search Premier. Study selection included quantitative studies since 2000 with outcomes specified for adults with LEP residing in the U.S. related to healthcare service access or defined health outcomes, including healthcare costs. A total of 137 articles met the inclusion criteria. Major outcomes included ambulatory care, hospitalization, screening, specific conditions, and general health. Overall, the literature identified differential access to and utilization of healthcare across multiple modalities with poorer outcomes among LEP populations compared with English-proficient populations. Current research includes inconsistent definitions for LEP populations, primarily cross-sectional studies, small sample sizes, and homogeneous language and regional samples. Current regulations and practices are insufficient to address the barriers that LEP individuals face to healthcare access and outcomes. Changes to EMRs and other data collection to consistently include LEP status and more methodologically rigorous studies are needed to address healthcare disparities for LEP individuals.
Evaluation of Mobile Applications for Patients with Diabetes Mellitus: A Scoping Review
Authors: Lee Jung Lim , Kim Youngji
Published: January 2024

There has been increasing interest in mobile healthcare for diabetes management. However, there remains limited evidence regarding the effectiveness of these mobile applications (apps). This scoping review aimed to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of mobile diabetes management apps. We used the following search terms: “mobile app”, “mobile application”, and “diabetes”. We included only articles written in English and published between January 2016 and August 2021. We identified two, six, and four articles focused on type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, and both diabetes types, respectively. Five, four, and three of these studies reported on the apps’ functionality, usability, and both, respectively. Our findings indicated that diabetes mobile apps allowed for convenient user experience and improved blood sugar levels in patients with diabetes. Considering these findings, usability must be comprehensively evaluated by using definitions such as the ISO9241-11 usability definition or the mobile application rating scale (MARS) when developing diabetes-related apps. For the feasibility of diabetes mobile apps, we recommend that HbA1C and self-management be included as evaluation variables. Given the increasing importance of continuous management for patients with diabetes, interventions using mobile apps are bound to become effective tools for patient-led self-management.
Special Issue “Deployment of Proteomics Approaches in Biomedical Research”
Authors: Fernández-Irigoyen Joaquín , Santamaría Enrique
Published: January 2024

Many angles of personalized medicine, such as diagnostic improvements, systems biology [...]
Mechanosensitive Cation Channel Piezo1 Is Involved in Renal Fibrosis Induction
Authors: Drobnik Marta , Smólski Jakub , Grądalski Łukasz , Niemirka Szymon , Młynarska Ewelina , Rysz Jacek , Franczyk Beata
Published: January 2024

Renal fibrosis, the result of different pathological processes, impairs kidney function and architecture, and usually leads to renal failure development. Piezo1 is a mechanosensitive cation channel highly expressed in kidneys. Activation of Piezo1 by mechanical stimuli increases cations influx into the cell with slight preference of calcium ions. Two different models of Piezo1 activation are considered: force through lipid and force through filament. Expression of Piezo1 on mRNA and protein levels was confirmed within the kidney. Their capacity is increased in the fibrotic kidney. The pharmacological tools for Piezo1 research comprise selective activators of the channels (Yoda1 and Jedi1/2) as well as non-selective inhibitors (spider peptide toxin) GsMTx4. Piezo1 is hypothesized to be the upstream element responsible for the activation of integrin. This pathway (calcium/calpain2/integrin beta1) is suggested to participate in profibrotic response induced by mechanical stimuli. Administration of the Piezo1 unspecific inhibitor or activators to unilateral ureter obstruction (UUO) mice or animals with folic acid-induced fibrosis modulates extracellular matrix deposition and influences kidney function. All in all, according to the recent data Piezo1 plays an important role in kidney fibrosis development. This channel has been selected as the target for pharmacotherapy of renal fibrosis.
Effects of Habitual Dietary Change on the Gut Microbiota and Health of Silkworms
Authors: Wang Guang , Ding Xueyan , Yang Jiameng , Ma Lu , Sun Xiaoning , Zhu Ruihong , Lu Riming , Xiao Zhitian , Xing Zhiyi , Liu Jingbin , Pan Zhonghua , Xu Shiqing , Sima Yanghu
Published: January 2024

Diet plays a crucial role in shaping the gut microbiota and overall health of animals. Traditionally, silkworms are fed fresh mulberry leaves, and artificial diets do not support good health. The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between the dietary transition from artificial diets to mulberry leaves and the effects on the gut microbiota and physiological changes in silkworms as a model organism. With the transition from artificial diets to mulberry leaves, the diversity of the silkworm gut microbiota increased, and the proportion of Enterococcus and Weissella, the dominant gut bacterial species in silkworms reared on artificial diets, decreased, whereas the abundance of Achromobacter and Rhodococcus increased. Dietary transition at different times, including the third or fifth instar larval stages, resulted in significant differences in the growth and development, immune resistance, and silk production capacity of silkworms. These changes might have been associated with the rapid adaptation of the intestinal microbiota of silkworms to dietary transition. This study preliminarily established a dietary transition–gut microbial model in silkworms based on the conversion from artificial diets to mulberry leaves, thus providing an important reference for future studies on the mechanisms through which habitual dietary changes affect host physiology through the gut microbiome.
Inhibiting Neutrophil Extracellular Traps Protects against Ultraviolet B-Induced Skin Damage: Effects of Hochu-ekki-to and DNase I
Authors: Inaba Issei , Hiramoto Keiichi , Yamate Yurika , Morita Akihiro , Tsutsumi Tomonari , Yasuda Hiroyuki , Sato Eisuke F.
Published: January 2024

UV-B radiation induces sunburn, and neutrophils are pivotal in this inflammation. In this study, we examined the potential involvement of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) in ultraviolet B (UVB)-induced skin inflammation, correlating the skin inflammation-mitigating effects of Hochu-ekki-to on UV-B irradiation and NETs. To elucidate NET distribution in the dorsal skin, male ICR mice, exposed to UVB irradiation, were immunohistologically analyzed to detect citrullinated histone H3 (citH3) and peptidylarginine deiminase 4 (PAD4). Reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in the bloodstream was analyzed. To establish the involvement of NET-released DNA in this inflammatory response, mice were UV-B irradiated following the intraperitoneal administration of DNase I. In vitro experiments were performed to scrutinize the impact of Hochu-ekki-to on A23187-induced NETs in neutrophil-like HL-60 cells. UV-B irradiation induced dorsal skin inflammation, coinciding with a significant increase in citH3 and PAD4 expression. Administration of DNase I attenuated UV-B-induced skin inflammation, whereas Hochu-ekki-to administration considerably suppressed the inflammation, correlating with diminished levels of citH3 and PAD4 in the dorsal skin. UV-B irradiation conspicuously augmented ROS and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) production in the blood. Hochu-ekki-to significantly inhibited ROS and H2O2 generation. In vitro experiments demonstrated that Hochu-ekki-to notably inhibited A23187-induced NETs in differentiated neutrophil-like cells. Hence, NETs have been implicated in UV-B-induced skin inflammation, and their inhibition reduces cutaneous inflammation. Additionally, Hochu-ekki-to mitigated skin inflammation by impeding neutrophil infiltration and NETs in the dorsal skin of mice.
DNA and RNA Stability of Marine Microalgae in Cold-Stored Sediments and Its Implications in Metabarcoding Analyses
Authors: Chai Zhaoyang , Liu Yuyang , Jia Siyang , Li Fengting , Hu Zhangxi , Deng Yunyan , Yue Caixia , Tang Ying-Zhong
Published: January 2024

The ever-increasing applications of metabarcoding analyses for environmental samples demand a well-designed assessment of the stability of DNA and RNA contained in cells that are deposited or buried in marine sediments. We thus conducted a qPCR quantification of the DNA and RNA in the vegetative cells of three microalgae entrapped in facsimile marine sediments and found that >90% of DNA and up to 99% of RNA for all microalgal species were degraded within 60 days at 4 °C. A further examination of the potential interference of the relic DNA of the vegetative cells with resting cyst detection in sediments was performed via a metabarcoding analysis in artificial marine sediments spiked with the vegetative cells of two Kareniaceae dinoflagellates and the resting cysts of another three dinoflagellates. The results demonstrated a dramatic decrease in the relative abundances of the two Kareniaceae dinoflagellates in 120 days, while those of the three resting cysts increased dramatically. Together, our results suggest that a positive detection of microalgae via metabarcoding analysis in DNA or RNA extracted from marine sediments strongly indicates the presence of intact or viable cysts or spores due to the rapid decay of relic DNA/RNA. This study provides a solid basis for the data interpretation of metabarcoding surveys, particularly in resting cyst detection.
Metabolic Profiling to Assess Response to Targeted and Immune Therapy in Melanoma
Authors: Farah Chantale , Mignion Lionel , Jordan Bénédicte F.
Published: January 2024

There is currently no consensus to determine which advanced melanoma patients will benefit from targeted therapy, immunotherapy, or a combination of both, highlighting the critical need to identify early-response biomarkers to advanced melanoma therapy. The goal of this review is to provide scientific rationale to highlight the potential role of metabolic imaging to assess response to targeted and/or immune therapy in melanoma cancer. For that purpose, a brief overview of current melanoma treatments is provided. Then, current knowledge with respect to melanoma metabolism is described with an emphasis on major crosstalks between melanoma cell metabolism and signaling pathways involved in BRAF-targeted therapy as well as in immune checkpoint inhibition therapies. Finally, preclinical and clinical studies using metabolic imaging and/or profiling to assess response to melanoma treatment are summarized with a particular focus on PET (Positron Emission Tomography) imaging and 13C-MRS (Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy) methods.
Therapeutic Delivery of Soluble Fractalkine Ameliorates Vascular Dysfunction in the Diabetic Retina
Authors: Rodriguez Derek , Church Kaira A. , Smith Chelsea T. , Vanegas Difernando , Cardona Sandra M. , Muzzio Isabel A. , Nash Kevin R. , Cardona Astrid E.
Published: January 2024

Diabetic retinopathy (DR)-associated vision loss is a devastating disease affecting the working-age population. Retinal pathology is due to leakage of serum components into retinal tissues, activation of resident phagocytes (microglia), and vascular and neuronal damage. While short-term interventions are available, they do not revert visual function or halt disease progression. The impact of microglial inflammatory responses on the neurovascular unit remains unknown. In this study, we characterized microglia–vascular interactions in an experimental model of DR. Early diabetes presents activated retinal microglia, vascular permeability, and vascular abnormalities coupled with vascular tortuosity and diminished astrocyte and endothelial cell-associated tight-junction (TJ) and gap-junction (GJ) proteins. Microglia exclusively bind to the neuronal-derived chemokine fractalkine (FKN) via the CX3CR1 receptor to ameliorate microglial activation. Using neuron-specific recombinant adeno-associated viruses (rAAVs), we therapeutically overexpressed soluble (sFKN) or membrane-bound (mFKN) FKN using intra-vitreal delivery at the onset of diabetes. This study highlights the neuroprotective role of rAAV-sFKN, reducing microglial activation, vascular tortuosity, fibrin(ogen) deposition, and astrogliosis and supporting the maintenance of the GJ connexin-43 (Cx43) and TJ zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) molecules. The results also show that microglia–vascular interactions influence the vascular width upon administration of rAAV-sFKN and rAAV-mFKN. Administration of rAAV-sFKN improved visual function without affecting peripheral immune responses. These findings suggest that overexpression of rAAV-sFKN can mitigate vascular abnormalities by promoting glia–neural signaling. sFKN gene therapy is a promising translational approach to reverse vision loss driven by vascular dysfunction.
Identification and Ranking of Factors Affecting the Delay Risk of High-Rise Construction Projects Using AHP and VIKOR Methods
Authors: Vahedi Nikbakht Mehran , Gheibi Mohammad , Montazeri Hassan , Yeganeh Khaksar Reza , Moezzi Reza , Vadiee Amir
Published: January 2024

Construction projects, especially those for commercial purposes, require thorough planning and control to ensure success within predetermined budgets and timelines. This research, conducted in Mashhad, Iran, employs the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and VIKOR methods to identify and rank factors influencing delays in high-rise projects. The study, based on a sample of 40 projects, emphasizes the comprehensive nature of our research method. The scale for features in project selection includes societal importance (with different applications including cultural hubs, affordable housing initiatives, and urban renewal for social equity), size (less and more than 20 units in residential projects), and diversity (mixed-use development, inclusive infrastructure, and cultural and recreational spaces), contributing to a comprehensive analysis of construction delays. Expert project managers and engineers provided insights through two questionnaires, and their responses underwent thorough analysis. Our findings not only underscore the significance of factors contributing to project success but also rank their impact on the likelihood of delays. The study reveals that the negative effects of these factors on cost, time, and project quality vary. Time emerges as the most influential parameter, with approximately six times more impact on cost and nine times more on quality. Contractor financial weakness, delays in allocating financial and credit resources, insufficient project resource allocation, contractor technical and executive weakness, and a lack of proper implementation and project control are identified as the most important factors contributing to delays.
Exploring the Efficacy of Amine-Free Anti-Stripping Agent in Improving Asphalt Characteristics
Authors: Al-Saffar Zaid Hazim , Mohamed Hasan Heja Ghazi , Oleiwi Aletba Salam Ridha
Published: January 2024

This research addresses the significant challenge posed by early water damage in highway asphalt pavement, a critical concern affecting pavement service performance. To counteract this issue, the utilization of anti-stripping agents in asphalt is explored as a highly effective technical intervention. In this investigation, a carefully selected amine-free additive was employed to modify the asphalt binder. A comprehensive array of physical and rheological tests, covering aspects such as storage stability, penetration, softening point, ductility, elastic recovery, rolling thin-film oven, retained penetration, the ductility of residue, and rotational viscometer assessments, were conducted to examine the multifaceted impact of the anti-stripping agent on the asphalt binder. Additionally, we assessed the asphalt mixture’s sensitivity to moisture through Marshall stability tests after conditioning for 40 min and 24 h, followed by an enhanced immersion test and moisture susceptibility measurement. The results reveal a nuanced interplay of chemical and physical mechanisms influencing the behavior of the asphalt binder. Notably, the incorporation of an anti-stripping agent at a concentration of 0.25–0.5% (by weight of asphalt binder) led to a substantial improvement in the tensile strength ratio (TSR) to 94.9%, a noteworthy enhancement compared to the 80.6% observed with virgin asphalt mixture. Furthermore, the retained stability index (RSI) exhibited a remarkable increase to 98.1%, surpassing the 87.6% recorded for virgin asphalt. This study not only provides crucial insights into the intricate dynamics of asphalt binder performance but also emphasizes the pivotal role of anti-stripping agents in augmenting the structural integrity and resilience of asphalt pavement.
Achieving Cardiovascular Risk Management Goals and Patient Quality of Life
Authors: Kosobucka-Ozdoba Agata , Pietrzykowski Łukasz , Michalski Piotr , Ratajczak Jakub , Grzelakowska Klaudyna , Kasprzak Michał , Kubica Jacek , Kubica Aldona
Published: January 2024

(1) Background: Eliminating or reducing the severity of modifiable risk factors of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and undertaking health-promoting behaviors is the basis for prevention. (2) Methods: This study included 200 subjects without a history of CVD, aged 18 to 80 years, who had been diagnosed with hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, or diabetes 6 to 24 months before study enrolment. (3) Results: The median 10-year CV risk assessed by the SCORE2 and SCORE2-OP algorithms was 3.0 (IQR 1.5–7.0). An increase in mean cardiovascular risk in the range from low and moderate to very high was associated with a decrease in quality of life both in individual subscales and the overall score. The median number of controlled risk factors was 4.0 (IQR 3.0–5.0). As the mean number of controlled risk factors increased, the quality of life improved in both of HeartQoL questionnaire subscales (emotional p = 0.0018; physical p = 0.0004) and the overall score (global p = 0.0001). The median number of reported health-promoting behaviors undertaken within 3 years before study enrolment was 3.0 (IQR 2.0–4.0). The highest quality of life in each of the studied dimensions was found in people who reported undertaking three health-promoting behaviors. (4) Conclusions: Controlling CVD risk factors and undertaking health-promoting behaviors has a positive impact on the quality of life of patients without a history of atherosclerotic CVD.
Changes in Neurodegeneration and Visual Prognosis in Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion after Resolution of Macular Edema
Authors: Park Chanjoon , Lee Ji Ho , Park Young Gun
Published: January 2024

This study aimed to examine the thicknesses of the ganglion cell layer (GCL) and peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) in eyes with resolved macular edema (ME) in branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) and determine their relationship with visual acuity (VA). This retrospective observational case–control study included 57 eyes of BRVO patients with resolved ME after treatment. The macular GCL thickness, peripapillary RNFL thickness, and central macular thickness (CMT) measured on swept-source optical coherence tomography scans with the contralateral eyes used as controls were evaluated. The mean CMT was 270.48 ± 32.7 μm; the mean RNFL thickness was 105.46 ± 25.94 μm in BRVO eyes. Although the average RNFL thickness was decreased in BRVO eyes compared to unaffected eyes, there was no significant difference between the groups. However, the temporal and nasal RNFL thicknesses were significantly different between the groups. The mean affected quadrant had a significantly thinner GCL compared to the corresponding opposite unaffected quadrant (p = 0.02). Final VA was significantly correlated with nasal and middle GCL thicknesses in the affected area (r = −0.512, p = 0.003 and r = −0.537, p = 0.001, respectively); no correlation was found between the average RNFL thickness and mean CMT. The peripapillary RNFL and GCL thicknesses of the affected area were reduced in BRVO eyes compared to unaffected eyes. VA significantly correlated with nasal and middle GCL thicknesses in the affected area. Inner retinal damage occurring in patients with ME secondary to BRVO may be related to the visual prognosis.
The Association between Term Chorioamnionitis during Labor and Long-Term Infectious Morbidity of the Offspring
Authors: Davidi Noa Efrat , Gutvirtz Gil , Sheiner Eyal
Published: January 2024

Background: Chorioamnionitis during labor exposes the fetus to an intrauterine state that may alter the future immune response and may expose the offspring to future susceptibility to infectious disease. We evaluated the long-term pediatric infectious morbidity of children born at term to mothers who have chorioamnionitis during labor. Methods: This was a population-based cohort analysis including only term singleton deliveries at a regional tertiary hospital between the years 1991 and 2021. Offspring to mothers with and without a diagnosis of chorioamnionitis during labor were compared. Offspring hospitalizations up to the age of 18 years involving infectious morbidity were evaluated using the Kaplan–Meier survival curve and a Cox regression model to control possible confounders. Results: A total of 331,598 deliveries were included, 988 (0.3%) of which were of mothers diagnosed with chorioamnionitis during labor. All infectious morbidity rates included in the analysis were comparable between groups. The Kaplan–Meier survival curves were similar for both groups (log-rank = 0.881) and the multivariable analysis ascertained that chorioamnionitis during labor was not a risk factor for offspring’s long-term infectious morbidity (HR 0.929, 95%CI 0.818–1.054, p = 0.254). Conclusions: In our cohort, term chorioamnionitis during labor was not associated with a higher risk of pediatric hospitalization due to infections. The infectious/inflammatory state during labor did not expose nor increase the susceptibility of the term offspring to future infectious morbidity.
Results of Utilizing Cerclage Wires in the Management of Intraoperative Vancouver B1 Fractures in Primary Total Hip Arthroplasties: A Retrospective Cohort Investigation into Clinical and Radiographic Outcomes
Authors: Rocchi Caterina , Di Matteo Vincenzo , Chiappetta Katia , Grappiolo Guido , Loppini Mattia
Published: January 2024

Background: Due to an increase in total hip arthroplasties (THAs), the incidence of periprosthetic hip fractures (PPHFs) is forecast to rise considerably in the next decades, with Vancouver B1 fractures (VB1) accounting for one third of total cases. Femur fixation with cerclages (with or without screws) is considered the current treatment option for intraoperative VB1. Methods: The study retrospectively includes data from patients who developed VB1 PPHFs during THAs from 3 December 2020 to 30 November 2022. The primary outcome of this study was to identify the reintervention-free survival rate. The secondary aim was to determine clinical and radiographic assessment at follow-up, based on Harris hip score (HHS) and limb length discrepancy (LLD). Results: Thirty-seven patients with a mean age of 60.03 ± 15.49 (22 to 77) years old were included. Overall, the Kaplan–Meier analysis estimated a reoperation-free survival rate of 99% (CI 95%) at 6 months. The mean limb length discrepancy (LLD) improved from −3.69 ± 6.07 (range −27.9 to 2.08) mm to 0.10 ± 0.67 (range −1.07 to 1.20) mm. The mean HHS improved from 42.72 ± 14.37 (range 21.00–96.00) to 94.40 ± 10.32 (range 56.00–100.00). Conclusions: The employment of cerclage wires represents an effective strategy for handling intraoperative VB1 fractures. Level III retrospective cohort study.
Imaging of Pulmonary Sarcoidosis—A Review
Authors: Bailey Georgina L. , Wells Athol U. , Desai Sujal R.
Published: January 2024

Sarcoidosis is the classic multisystem granulomatous disease. First reported as a disorder of the skin, it is now clear that, in the overwhelming majority of patients with sarcoidosis, the lungs will bear the brunt of the disease. This review explores some of the key concepts in the imaging of pulmonary sarcoidosis: the wide array of typical (and some of the less common) findings on high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) are reviewed and, with this, the concept of morphologic/HRCT phenotypes is discussed. The pathophysiologic insights provided by HRCT through studies where morphologic abnormalities and pulmonary function tests are compared are evaluated. Finally, this review outlines the important contribution of HRCT to disease monitoring and prognostication.