bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feasibility of Optical Genome Mapping from Placental and Umbilical Cord Sampled after Spontaneous or Therapeutic Pregnancy Termination
Authors: Goumy Carole , Ouedraogo Zangbéwendé Guy , Bellemonte Elodie , Eymard-Pierre Eleonore , Soler Gwendoline , Perthus Isabelle , Pebrel-Richard Céline , Gouas Laetitia , Salaun Gaëlle , Véronèse Lauren , Laurichesse Hélène , Darcha Claude , Tchirkov Andrei
Published: December 2023

Optical genome mapping (OGM) is an alternative to classical cytogenetic techniques to improve the detection rate of clinically significant genomic abnormalities. The isolation of high-molecular-weight (HMW) DNA is critical for a successful OGM analysis. HMW DNA quality depends on tissue type, sample size, and storage conditions. We assessed the feasibility of OGM analysis of DNA from nine umbilical cord (UC) and six chorionic villus (CV) samples collected after the spontaneous or therapeutic termination of pregnancy. We analyzed quality control metrics provided by the Saphyr system (Bionano Genomics) and assessed the length of extracted DNA molecules using pulsed-field capillary electrophoresis. OMG data were successfully analyzed for all six CV samples. Five of the UC samples did not meet the Saphyr quality criteria, mainly due to poor DNA quality. In this regard, we found that DNA quality assessment with pulsed-field capillary electrophoresis can predict a successful OGM analysis. OGM data were fully concordant with the results of standard cytogenetic methods. Moreover, OGM detected an average of 14 additional structural variants involving OMIM genes per sample. On the basis of our results, we established the optimal conditions for sample storage and preparation required for a successful OGM analysis. We recommend checking DNA quality before analysis with pulsed-field capillary electrophoresis if the storage conditions were not ideal or if the quality of the sample is poor. OGM can therefore be performed on fetal tissue harvested after the termination of pregnancy, which opens up the perspective for improved diagnostic yield.
The Swedish Standardized Course of Care—Diagnostic Efficacy in Esophageal and Gastric Cancer
Authors: Kanold Philip , Nyhlin Nils , Szabo Eva , van Nieuwenhoven Michiel
Published: December 2023

Fast-track pathways for diagnosing esophageal or gastric cancer (EGC) have been implemented in several European countries. In Sweden, symptoms such as dysphagia, early satiety, and other alarm symptoms call for a referral for gastroscopy, according to the Swedish Standardized Course of Care (SCC). The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic yield of the SCC criteria for EGC, to review all known EGC cases in Region Örebro County between March 2017 and February 2021, and to compare referral indication(s), waiting times, and tumor stage. In our material, EGC was found in 6.2% of the SCC referrals. Esophageal dysphagia had a positive predictive value (PPV) of 5.6%. The criterion with the highest PPV for EGC was suspicious radiological findings, with a PPV of 24.5%. A total of 139 EGCs were diagnosed, 99 (71%) through other pathways than via the SCC. Waiting times were approximately 14 days longer for patients evaluated via non-SCC pathways. There was no statistically significant association between referral pathway and primary tumor characteristics. The results show that a majority of the current SCC criteria are poor predictors of EGC, and some alarm symptoms lack a sufficiently specific definition, e.g., dysphagia. Referral through this fast track does not seem to have a positive impact on disease outcomes.
A Pineal Germinoma with Rapid Enlargement following Tumor Resection
Authors: Hsu Chia-Jung , Liao Hsiang-Chih , Hueng Dueng-Yuan , Tseng Kuan-Yin
Published: December 2023

The natural course of pineal germ cell tumors (GCTs), particularly their post-operative progression, is not well understood. We report a rare case of pineal region GCT showing rapid enlargement within 2 weeks following surgical resection. A young adult male presented with progressive headache and diplopia for several weeks. Although elevation of β-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-HCG) and α-fetoprotein (AFP) levels suggested that a large pineal mass lesion observed on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) might be a β-HCG/AFP-producing tumor, whether the mass was truly a GCT remained unclear. We performed an endoscopy-assisted suboccipital infratentorial approach with removal of the tumor that was diagnosed as germinoma via histopathological investigation. During the week preceding chemotherapy, the patient’s consciousness rapidly worsened. MRI showed that the residual pineal germinoma had enlarged and even compressed the tectum and thalamus. Emergency chemotherapy and radiotherapy were prescribed, and the patient received invasive ventilation for respiratory failure. Unexpectedly, the patient recovered within a short period. Importantly, total regression of the pineal germinoma, accompanied by β-HCG and AFP levels returning to normal range, was observed 4 months after chemotherapy. These phenomena suggest that the rapid enlargement of the pineal germinoma, which might be induced by aggressive surgical cytoreduction, responds well to chemoradiotherapy.
Evaluation of the Reliability and the Performance of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Radiomics in the Presence of Randomly Generated Irrelevant Features for Prostate Cancer
Authors: Xue Cindy , Yuan Jing , Lo Gladys G. , Poon Darren M. C. , Chu Winnie C. W.
Published: December 2023

Radiomics has the potential to aid prostate cancer (PC) diagnoses and prediction by analyzing and modeling quantitative features extracted from clinical imaging. However, its reliability has been a concern, possibly due to its high-dimensional nature. This study aims to quantitatively investigate the impact of randomly generated irrelevant features on MRI radiomics feature selection, modeling, and performance by progressively adding randomly generated features. Two multiparametric-MRI radiomics PC datasets were used (dataset 1 (n = 260), dataset 2 (n = 100)). The endpoint was to differentiate pathology-confirmed clinically significant (Gleason score (GS) ≥ 7) from insignificant (GS < 7) PC. Random features were generated at 12 levels with a 10% increment from 0% to 100% and an additional 5%. Three feature selection algorithms and two classifiers were used to build the models. The area under the curve and accuracy were used to evaluate the model’s performance. Feature importance was calculated to assess features’ contributions to the models. The metrics of each model were compared using an ANOVA test with a Bonferroni correction. A slight tendency to select more random features with the increasing number of random features introduced to the datasets was observed. However, the performance of the radiomics-built models was not significantly affected, which was partially due to the higher contribution of radiomics features toward the models compared to the random features. These reliability effects also vary among datasets. In conclusion, while the inclusion of additional random features may still slightly impact the performance of the feature selection, it may not have a substantial impact on the MRI radiomics model performance.
Current Challenges in the Diagnosis of Pediatric Cutaneous Mastocytosis
Authors: Ługowska-Umer Hanna , Czarny Justyna , Rydz Agnieszka , Nowicki Roman J. , Lange Magdalena
Published: December 2023

Pediatric mastocytosis is mostly a cutaneous disease classified as cutaneous mastocytosis (CM), which is characterized by mast cell (MCs) accumulation in the skin and the absence of extracutaneous involvement. Based on the morphology of skin lesions, CM can be divided into three major forms: maculopapular CM (MPCM), diffuse CM (DCM) and mastocytoma of the skin. A positive Darier’s sign is pathognomonic for all forms of CM. MPCM is the most common form, presenting with red-brown macules or slightly raised papules. Mastocytoma is characterized by solitary or a maximum of three nodular or plaque lesions. DCM is a rare, severe form which presents as erythroderma, pachydermia and blistering in the infantile period of the disease. CM is associated with MC mediator-related symptoms, most commonly including pruritus, flushing, blistering, diarrhea and cramping. Anaphylactic shock occurs rarely, mainly in patients with extensive skin lesions and a significantly elevated serum tryptase level. Childhood-onset MPCM and mastocytoma are usually benign diseases, associated with a tendency for spontaneous regression, while DCM is associated with severe mediator-related symptoms, an increased risk of anaphylaxis and, in some cases, underlying systemic mastocytosis (SM). In contrast to adults, SM is a rare finding in children, most commonly presenting as indolent SM. However, advanced SM sporadically occurs.
Changes in Vertebrobasilar Artery Dissection Visible with High-Resolution Vessel Wall Imaging: A Serial Follow-Up Study
Authors: Cho Eunjeong , Won Youjin , Lee Ui Yun , Hwang Seung Bae , Kwak Hyo Sung
Published: December 2023

Background: High-resolution vessel wall imaging (HR-VWI) can identify vertebrobasilar artery dissections (VBADs) due to its good intramural hematoma and intimal flap visualization. Although the clinical course of VBADs is known to be benign, changes in VBADs visible using HR-VWI at follow-up are unknown. Thus, this study aimed to assess serial changes in VBADs using HR-VWI at follow-up. Materials and methods: Patients with neurological symptoms from VBADs who had undergone both initial and follow-up HR-VWI examinations were retrospectively enrolled. Enrolled patients with VBADs at the initial HR-VWI after acute symptom onset underwent serial follow-up with HR-VWI at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months. Patients were classified into three groups based on the results of follow-up HR-VWI examinations: type 1 = wall thickness of the dissected artery; type 2 = no interval change; and type 3 = occlusion. Results: Fifteen patients (median age: 50 years, nine males) were enrolled in this study. All patients initially showed an intimal flap and a double lumen. Twelve (80%) patients showed strong wall enhancement. Nine (60%) patients had an intramural hematoma. During serial follow-up, nine (60.0%) patients showed type 1 lesions due to attachment of the intimal flap to the vessel wall, five (33.3%) showed type 2, and one showed type 3. Four patients with BA dissection showed type 2 lesions without change in the intimal flap or the double lumen. Conclusions: Changes in VBADs in HR-VWI were observed during the follow-up period. Most patients with VBADs showed the healing process, such as the disappearance of the intimal flap and the double lumen.
DyLFG: A Dynamic Network Learning Framework Based on Geometry
Authors: Wu Wei , Zhai Xuemeng
Published: December 2023

Dynamic network representation learning has recently attracted increasing attention because real-world networks evolve over time, that is nodes and edges join or leave the networks over time. Different from static networks, the representation learning of dynamic networks should not only consider how to capture the structural information of network snapshots, but also consider how to capture the temporal dynamic information of network structure evolution from the network snapshot sequence. From the existing work on dynamic network representation, there are two main problems: (1) A significant number of methods target dynamic networks, which only allow nodes to increase over time, not decrease, which reduces the applicability of such methods to real-world networks. (2) At present, most network-embedding methods, especially dynamic network representation learning approaches, use Euclidean embedding space. However, the network itself is geometrically non-Euclidean, which leads to geometric inconsistencies between the embedded space and the underlying space of the network, which can affect the performance of the model. In order to solve the above two problems, we propose a geometry-based dynamic network learning framework, namely DyLFG. Our proposed framework targets dynamic networks, which allow nodes and edges to join or exit the network over time. In order to extract the structural information of network snapshots, we designed a new hyperbolic geometry processing layer, which is different from the previous literature. In order to deal with the temporal dynamics of the network snapshot sequence, we propose a gated recurrent unit (GRU) module based on Ricci curvature, that is the RGRU. In the proposed framework, we used a temporal attention layer and the RGRU to evolve the neural network weight matrix to capture temporal dynamics in the network snapshot sequence. The experimental results showed that our model outperformed the baseline approaches on the baseline datasets.
How Was the Staple Food Supply Chain in Indonesia Affected by COVID-19?
Authors: Yudha Eka Purna , Roche Julian
Published: December 2023

During the COVID-19 pandemic, there were significant restrictions on the transportation of food products in Indonesia. The research objective of this study was to investigate the extent to which these restrictions impacted changes in marketing margins at the provincial level in Indonesia. The approach taken was through the examination of trade and freight margin statistical data before the pandemic (2019) and after the pandemic (2020) across a number of different commodity markets: rice, shallots, red chilli pepper, beef, chicken meat and eggs, sugar, and cooking oil. The evidence indicates that the pandemic brought a rapid rise in Indonesian domestic prices as a result of purchasing panic at its start. But after the imposition of transportation restrictions, there were wide variations: some durable food options experienced increased marketing margins, whereas non-durables tended to experience decreased marketing margins in some regions, as fresh products such as red chillies and shallots were discarded as a result of declining consumer purchasing power. The conclusion for policymakers is that any future restrictions should take into account this likely difference in response, in order to minimise economic disruption by calibrating support along the supply chain.
Deep Reinforcement Learning for Resilient Power and Energy Systems: Progress, Prospects, and Future Avenues
Authors: Gautam Mukesh
Published: December 2023

In recent years, deep reinforcement learning (DRL) has garnered substantial attention in the context of enhancing resilience in power and energy systems. Resilience, characterized by the ability to withstand, absorb, and quickly recover from natural disasters and human-induced disruptions, has become paramount in ensuring the stability and dependability of critical infrastructure. This comprehensive review delves into the latest advancements and applications of DRL in enhancing the resilience of power and energy systems, highlighting significant contributions and key insights. The exploration commences with a concise elucidation of the fundamental principles of DRL, highlighting the intricate interplay among reinforcement learning (RL), deep learning, and the emergence of DRL. Furthermore, it categorizes and describes various DRL algorithms, laying a robust foundation for comprehending the applicability of DRL. The linkage between DRL and power system resilience is forged through a systematic classification of DRL applications into five pivotal dimensions: dynamic response, recovery and restoration, energy management and control, communications and cybersecurity, and resilience planning and metrics development. This structured categorization facilitates a methodical exploration of how DRL methodologies can effectively tackle critical challenges within the domain of power and energy system resilience. The review meticulously examines the inherent challenges and limitations entailed in integrating DRL into power and energy system resilience, shedding light on practical challenges and potential pitfalls. Additionally, it offers insights into promising avenues for future research, with the aim of inspiring innovative solutions and further progress in this vital domain.
A Study on Enhancing the Information Security of Urban Traffic Control Systems Using Evolutionary Game Theory
Authors: Pan Ke , Wang Li , Zhang Lingyu
Published: December 2023

In recent years, there has been significant development in intelligent technologies for urban traffic control, such as smart city and vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication. These advancements aim to provide more efficient and convenient services to participants in urban transportation. As the urban traffic control (UTC) system integrates with various networks and physical infrastructure, the potential threats of malicious attacks and breaches pose significant risks to the safety of individuals and their properties. To address this issue, this academic paper focuses on studying the network structure of the UTC system. A signal security game model is constructed based on the concepts of evolutionary game theory (EGT), involving three parties: attackers, upper computers (UC), and traffic signal machines (TSM). The model aims to analyze the evolutionary stability of the strategies chosen by each party, and to explore the relationships between various factors and the strategy choices of the three parties. Furthermore, the stability of equilibrium points in the three-party game system is analyzed using the Liapunov method. The conditions in which UC and TSM, dependent on detection rates and defense costs, choose to abandon defense at pure-strategy equilibrium points were obtained. Finally, MATLAB is utilized for simulation analysis to validate the impact of attack costs, defense costs, and detection rates on the information security of UTC systems.
Communicationless Overcurrent Relays Coordination for Active Distribution Network Considering Fault Repairing Periods
Authors: Elsadd Mahmoud A. , Zobaa Ahmed F. , Khattab Heba A. , Abd El Aziz Ahmed M. , Fetouh Tamer
Published: December 2023

This paper presents an integrated overcurrent relays coordination approach for an Egyptian electric power distribution system. The protection scheme suits all network topologies, including adding distribution generation units (DGs) and creating new paths during fault repair periods. The optimal types, sizes, and locations of DGs are obtained using HOMER software (Homer Pro 3.10.3) and a genetic algorithm (GA). The obtained values align with minimizing energy costs and environmental pollution. The proposed approach maintains dependability and security under all configurations using a single optimum setting for each relay. The calculations consider probable operating conditions, including DGs and fault repair periods. The enhanced coordination procedure partitions the ring into four parts and divides the process into four paths. The worst condition of two cascaded overcurrent relays from the DGs’ presence viewpoint is generalized for future work. Moreover, a novel concept addresses the issue of insensitivity during fault repair periods. The performance is validated through the simulation of an Egyptian primary distribution network.
Efficiency and Power Loss Distribution in a High-Frequency, Seven-Level Diode-Clamped Inverter
Authors: Stala Robert , Folmer Szymon , Penczek Adam , Hachlowski Jakub , Mikoś Zbigniew
Published: December 2023

The paper presents efficiency and power loss analysis in a high-frequency, seven-level diode-clamped inverter (7LDCB). The inverter is composed of four-level (4L) diode-clamped branches based on MOSFET transistors and Si Schottky diodes. The range of DC-link voltages enables the operation of the inverter in connection with a single-phase power grid. The tested inverter can be controlled using various modulation concepts that affect its parameters, but also energy losses. Carrier-based modulation, which may be useful in a few applications, is compared to selective modulation based on the state machine (SM-based) algorithm. The article demonstrates the efficiency level of the inverter as well as the influence of the modulation method and switching frequency on the efficiency and loss distribution in semiconductor devices. The article also shows the hardware implementation of a complex modulation algorithm based on selective switching states used to maintain voltage balance on three DC-link capacitors. Redundant switching states allow the generation of the same voltage but with the use of a selected DC-link capacitor. This makes it possible to balance the DC-link voltage with the load current. The article presents experimental results, which show the advantage of using the modulation method with selective switching states. First, it allows for equalizing the loading of DC-link capacitors. The second advantage is a more uniform distribution of losses in semiconductor components.
Synthesis of Solar Production and Energy Demand Profiles Using Markov Chains for Microgrid Design
Authors: Radet Hugo , Sareni Bruno , Roboam Xavier
Published: December 2023

Uncertainties related to the energy produced and consumed in smart grids, especially in microgrids, are among the major issues for both their design and optimal management. In that context, it is essential to have representative probabilistic scenarios of these environmental uncertainties. The intensive development and massive installation of smart meters will help to better characterize local energy consumption and production in the following years. However, models representing these variables over large timescales are essential for microgrid design. In this paper, we explore a simple method based on Markov chains capable of generating a large number of probabilistic production or consumption profiles from available historical measurements. We show that the developed approach can capture the main characteristics and statistical variability of real data on both short-term and long-term scales. Moreover, the correlation between both production and demand is conserved in generated profiles with respect to historical measurements.
Research on Risk Measurement of China’s Carbon Trading Market
Authors: Duan Yanzhi , He Chunlei , Yao Li , Wang Yue , Tang Nan , Wang Zhong
Published: December 2023

In today’s environmentally conscious world, carbon trading has emerged as a widely accepted economic instrument to mitigate the externalities resulting from deteriorating environmental problems. Consequently, the use of market-based mechanisms to address environmental issues has reached a global consensus. Many countries are implementing progressive steps by establishing carbon markets to promote low-carbon development and meet their carbon reduction targets. However, the inherent risks in carbon trading markets may hamper the formation of a reasonable carbon price signal, leading to inadequate stimulation of low-carbon technology investments and potential failure to achieve national emission reduction goals. Therefore, managing the risks associated with carbon trading markets is crucial. This study focuses on measuring the risk of China’s carbon market, with the primary aim of exploring carbon price fluctuation patterns and precisely measuring market risks. The risks associated with China’s carbon market are quantified and analyzed using the exponential generalized autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity (EGARCH) model, extreme value theory (EVT), and the value at risk (VaR) method. Results show that (1) the effect of external shocks on each carbon market is asymmetrical, and positive shocks exert considerable leverage effects on carbon price fluctuations. (2) EVT can be used to effectively fit the risks in the carbon markets. The risks of each carbon market show different characteristics. The risk of Hubei and Guangdong carbon markets is relatively small, and the dynamic VaR is nearly ±0.2. (3) Compared with the performance of the Chinese carbon market, the performance of the European Union Emission Trading Scheme is more stable, and its dynamic VaR for most of the period is within ±0.1, which is considerably lower than the VaR of other Chinese carbon markets. This study also proposes suitable policy implications to ensure the healthy and sustainable development of China’s carbon market.
Recent Advances in Information-Centric Networks (ICNs)
Authors: López-Ardao José Carlos , Rodríguez-Pérez Miguel , Herrería-Alonso Sergio
Published: December 2023

The great success of the Internet has been essentially based on the simplicity and versatility of its TCP/IP architecture, which imposes almost no restrictions on either the underlying network technology or on the data being transmitted [...]
Asymptotic Modeling of Optical Fibres: Annular Capillaries and Microstructured Optical Fibres
Authors: Luzi Giovanni , Klapper Vinzenz , Delgado Antonio
Published: December 2023

Microstructured optical fibres (MOFs) are a new type of optical fibres that possess a wide range of optical properties and many advantages over common optical fibres. Those are provided by unique structures defined by a pattern of periodic or quasi-periodic arrangement of air holes that run through the fibre length. In recent years, MOFs have opened up new possibilities in the field of optics and photonics, enabling the development of advanced devices and novel optical systems for different applications. The key application areas of MOFs vary from telecommunications and high-power energy transmission to quantum optics and sensing. The stack-and-draw method is a standard manufacturing technique for MOFs, where a preform is first manually created and then drawn in a sophisticated furnace into a fibre with the required final dimensions and position of the air holes. During the manufacturing process, experimenters can control only a few parameters, and mathematical models and numerical simulations of the drawing process are highly requested. They not only allow to deepen the understanding of physical phenomena occurring during the drawing process, but they also accurately predict the final cross-section shape and size of the fibre. In this manuscript, we assume thermal equilibrium between the furnace and the fibre and propose a functional form of the fibre temperature distribution. We utilise it with asymptotic mass, momentum, and evolution equations for free surfaces already available in the literature to describe the process of fibre drawing. By doing so, the complex heat exchange problem between the fibre and the furnace need not be solved. The numerical results of the whole asymptotic model overall agree well with experimental data available in the literature, both for the case of annular capillaries and for the case of holey fibres.
Effects of Seasonal Photoperiod on Growth, Lipid Metabolism, and Antioxidant Response in the Huanghe Carp (Cyprinus carpio haematopterus)
Authors: Wang Wenqian , Su Shengyan , Dong Ping , Feng Wenrong , Li Jianlin , Zhang Chengfeng , Tang Yongkai
Published: December 2023

Photoperiod is one of the most important environmental cues for organisms, and it plays a crucial role in regulating feeding, behavior, growth, and metabolism. However, seasonal photoperiods are often overlooked in carp culture or experiments, with a poorly understood effect on lipid metabolism and oxidative stress in fish. To explore the effects of seasonal photoperiods, we exposed Huanghe carp (Cyprinus carpio haematopterus) to summer photoperiod (14 h light:10 h dark) and winter photoperiod (10 h light:14 h dark) daylight conditions in an eight-week experiment. Our results suggested that the winter photoperiod significantly increased the liver TG level as well as the transcript levels of genes related to lipid synthesis, indicating that the lipid metabolism in Huanghe carp liver was enhanced compared to summer photoperiod conditions, and that lipid deposition may be responsible for the increase in body weight level and hepatosomatic index. Additionally, MDA, GSH, GSH-PX, and T-AOC levels were significantly elevated in the liver of fish under the winter photoperiod, suggesting that Huanghe carp responded to winter photoperiod exposure-induced oxidative stress in the liver by enhancing the antioxidant response. Based on transcriptome analysis, the winter photoperiod activated hepatic autophagy response and the FOXO signaling pathway in Huanghe carp. Combined with the correlation analysis, the Huanghe carp maintains the physiological health of the liver by activating the FOXO signaling pathway-mediated cell cycle regulation and autophagy response in response to oxidative stress during winter photoperiod exposure. Our study provides the first evidence for the physiological regulation of the liver in Huanghe carp under seasonal photoperiod stimulation.
A Label-Free Aptasensor for Turn-On Fluorescent Detection of Aflatoxin B1 Based on an Aggregation-Induced-Emission-Active Probe and Single-Walled Carbon Nanohorns
Authors: Yang Huanhuan , Lv Lei , Niu Mengyu , Zhang Dongjie , Guo Zhijun
Published: December 2023

The determination of the aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) content has received widespread attention in the context of food safety, which is a global public health issue. Accordingly, a label-free and turn-on fluorescent AFB1 determination method is developed herein with an ss-DNA aptamer as the recognition element, 4, 4-(1E,1E)-2, 2-(anthracene-9, 10-diyl) bis(ethene-2, 1-diyl) bis(N, N, N-trimethylbenzenaminium iodide) (DSAI) as the aggregation-induced emission (AIE) fluorescent probe, and single-walled carbon nanohorns (SWCNHs) as the selective part with a fluorescence quenching effect. In the presence of AFB1, the AFB1-specific aptamer undergoes a structural transformation and switches from being a random helix to a folded structure. DSAI’s fluorescence is protected as a result of the resistance of the transformed aptamer adsorbed on the SWCNHs’ surface. Because DSAI’s fluorescence is not quenchable, the fluorescence intensity is calculated as a function of the AFB1 concentration. By simply mixing DSAI, aptamer, AFB1 samples, and SWCNHs, the method can be carried out in 2 h, with a limit of detection (LOD) of 1.83 ng/mL. It has a high selectivity in the presence of other mycotoxins, and its performance is confirmed in soybean sauce with a known concentration of AFB1. The LOD was 1.92 ng/mL in the soy sauce samples and the recovery ranged from 95 to 106%, implying that the presented aptasensor has great potential for food analysis.
Preparation of Glutamine-Enriched Fermented Feed from Corn Gluten Meal and Its Functionality Evaluation
Authors: Fan Lei , Liu Xiaolan , Deng Yongping , Zheng Xiqun
Published: December 2023

China faces a persistent deficiency in feed protein resources. Enhancing the utilization efficiency of indigenous feed protein resources emerges as a viable strategy to alleviate the current deficit in protein feed supply. Corn gluten meal (CGM), characterized by a high proportion of crude protein and glutamine, is predominantly employed in animal feed. Nonetheless, the water-insolubility of CGM protein hampers its protein bioavailability when utilized as feed material. The aim of this study was to augment protein bioavailability, liberate glutamine peptides from CGM, and produce glutamine-enriched CGM fermented feed. We executed a co-fermentation protocol using Bacillus subtilis A5, Lactobacillus 02002, and acid protease to generate the CGM fermented feed. Subsequent in vivo experiments with broilers were conducted to assess the efficacy of the fermented product. The findings revealed that the soluble protein, glutamine, small peptides, and lactic acid contents in the fermented feed increased by 69.1%, 700%, 47.6%, and 125.9%, respectively. Incorporating 15% and 30% CGM fermented feed into the diet markedly enhanced the growth performance and intestinal health of broilers, positively modulated the cecal microbiota structure, and augmented the population of beneficial bacteria, specifically Lactobacillus. These results furnish both experimental and theoretical foundations for deploying CGM fermented feed as an alternative protein feed resource.
Biochemical Profile and Antioxidant Properties of Propolis from Northern Spain
Authors: Rendueles Eugenia , Mauriz Elba , Sanz-Gómez Javier , González-Paramás Ana M. , Vallejo-Pascual María-E. , Adanero-Jorge Félix , García-Fernández Camino
Published: December 2023

The antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial characteristics of propolis, a bioactive compound collected from hives, have prompted its use in the food sector in recent times. This study investigated the physicochemical characteristics, phenolic profile, and antioxidant capacity of 31 propolis extracts collected from Northern Spain. The physicochemical composition (resins, waxes, ashes mineral content, and heavy metals) was within the allowable regulatory limits. The analysis of bioactive compounds enabled the identification of 51 constituents: flavonoids (apigenin, catechin, chrysin, quercetin, and pinocembrin) and phenolic acids (caffeic, ferulic, and coumaric). The mean value of total polyphenols was 42.72 ± 13.19 Pinocembrin–Galangin Equivalents/100 g, whereas a range between 1.64 ± 0.04 and 4.95 ± 0.36 Quercetin Equivalents (QE) g/100 g was found for total flavonoids content. The determination of bioactivities revealed significant antioxidant capacity using DPPH (1114.28 ± 10.39 µM Trolox Equivalents and 3487.61 ± 318.66 µM Vitamin C Equivalents). Resin content in propolis samples was positively and significantly correlated with both polyphenols (rho = 0.365; p = 0.043) and flavonoid composition (rho = 0.615; p = 0.000) as well as the antioxidant capacity TEAC DPPH (rho = 0.415; p = 0.020). A multiple regression analysis modeled the correlation between resin composition, flavonoids, and TEAC DPPH values, yielding a significant regression equation (R2 = 0.618; F (2,28) = 22.629; p < 0.000; d = 2.299). Therefore, evaluating physicochemical parameters and biological activities provides a promising framework for predicting propolis’ quality and antioxidant properties, thus suggesting its potential as a functional and bioactive compound for the food industry.
Development and Characterization of Symbiotic Buffalo Petit Suisse Cheese Utilizing Whey Retention and Inulin Incorporation
Authors: Morais Rebeca , Soares Pedro Ivo , Morais Sinthya Kelly , Oriente Suelma , Nascimento Amanda , Melo Mylena Olga , Sousa Francisca Moises , Cavalcanti-Mata Mario , Lisboa Hugo M. , Gusmão Rennan Pereira , Abrantes Thaisa
Published: December 2023

This study presents the development and characterization of a novel buffalo Petit Suisse cheese, enhanced with symbiotic properties through an innovative whey retention method and incorporating inulin and xanthan gum. The research focused on assessing the cheese’s physicochemical properties, shelf life, lactic acid bacteria viability, syneresis behavior, and the impact of varying concentrations of functional ingredients. The addition of inulin and xanthan gum, following a design of experiments, significantly influenced the cheese’s texture and consistency. Higher inulin concentrations were associated with increased fermentation activity, as indicated by total titratable acidity, which showed an increase from 1.22% to 1.50% over a 28-day period, and pH levels that decreased from 3.33 to 2.96. The syneresis index varied across trials, with the highest reduction observed in trials with increased xanthan gum concentrations, effectively reducing syneresis to 0%. Lactic acid bacteria viability also showed notable variations, with the highest cell survival percentage reaching 107.89% in formulations with higher inulin and xanthan gum concentrations. These results underscore the importance of inulin and xanthan gum in enhancing the cheese’s microbial stability and textural quality. The study concludes that the strategic use of inulin and xanthan gum improves the nutritional profile of buffalo Petit Suisse cheese and optimizes its textural and sensory attributes.
Could Cariprazine Be a Possible Choice for High Functioning Autism? A Case Report
Authors: Miuli Andrea , Marrangone Carlotta , Di Marco Ornella , Pasino Arianna , Stigliano Gianfranco , Mosca Alessio , Pettorruso Mauro , Schifano Fabrizio , Martinotti Giovanni
Published: December 2023

This case report was conducted by searching for the following keywords on PubMed: High Functioning Autism, Autism Spectrum Disorder, cariprazine, aripiprazole, partial agonist antipsychotic, DRD2/DRD3. High Functioning Autism (HFA) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by the core symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) with average intellectual abilities, behavioral symptoms such as irritability, hyperactivity, aggressiveness and mood symptoms. HFA is not a term used in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of mental disorders (DSM), but it is commonly used to identify patients diagnosed with Autistic Disorder (AD) or Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS) with average or above average intellectual abilities. Several factors are involved in HFA development, including environmental and genetic factors. In particular, over the last several decades, dopaminergic signaling system dysfunction has been highlighted as being responsible for behavioral patterns. Nowadays, symptoms of ASD lack a specific pharmacological treatment. The only medications approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for symptoms associated with ASD, in particular the irritability, are risperidone and aripiprazole. According to the hypothesis that dopamine receptor DRD2 and DRD3 might be involved in impulsive behavior, stereotypy, repetitive behaviors and language impairment, cariprazine could be a therapeutic option. This molecule is primarily characterized by DRD3 partial agonism and serotonin 5-HT1A partial agonism, with a lower ability to activate DRD2 than other third-generation antipsychotics, such as aripiprazole. We have reported here a case study of treatment of HFA with cariprazine.
A Comparative Assessment of Different Aerogel-Insulated Building Walls for Enhanced Thermal Insulation Performance
Authors: Yang Jianming , Wu Huijun , Liang Yuying , Cen Jian , Zhang Xianyong
Published: December 2023

Aerogel is widely recognized as a superinsulating material with great potential for enhancing the thermal insulation performance of building walls. It can be applied in various forms such as aerogel plasters (AP), aerogel fibrous composites (AFC), and aerogel concrete (AC) in practical engineering applications. This study aims to investigate the most efficient application form for maximizing building insulation performance while minimizing the amount of aerogel used. To predict the thermal insulation performance of aerogel-insulated walls, a resistance–capacitance network model integrating the aerogels’ effective thermal conductivity model was developed and was validated by comparing it with Fluent simulation software results in terms of surface temperature. Using the validated models, the thermophysical parameters, transient thermal properties, and transmission load were predicted and compared among AP, AFC, and AC walls. The results indicate that using AFC can result in approximately 50% cost savings to achieve the same thermal resistance. After adding a 20 mm thickness of aerogel to the reference wall without aerogel, the AFC wall exhibited the highest improvement in thermal insulation performance, reaching 46.0–53.5%, followed by the AP wall, and then the AC wall, aligning with considerations of microstructural perspectives, thermal resistance distributions, and thermal non-uniformity factors. Therefore, giving priority to AFC use could reduce the required amount of silica aerogel and enhance economic efficiency. These results provide valuable insights for theoretical models and the application of aerogel-insulated walls in building engineering insulation.
Probing the Molecular Mechanism of Viscoelastic Relaxation in Transient Networks
Authors: Michida Shota , Chung Ung-il , Katashima Takuya
Published: December 2023

Hydrogels, which have polymer networks through supramolecular and reversible interactions, exhibit various mechanical responsibilities to its surroundings. The influence of the reversible bonds on a hydrogel’s macroscopic properties, such as viscoelasticity and dynamics, is not fully understood, preventing further innovative material development. To understand the relationships between the mechanical properties and molecular structures, it is required to clarify the molecular understanding of the networks solely crosslinked by reversible interactions, termed “transient networks”. This review introduces our recent progress on the studies on the molecular mechanism of viscoelasticity in transient networks using multiple methods and model materials. Based on the combination of the viscoelasticity and diffusion measurements, the viscoelastic relaxation of transient networks does not undergo the diffusion of polymers, which is not explained by the framework of conventional molecular models for the viscoelasticity of polymers. Then, we show the results of the comparison between the viscoelastic relaxation and binding dynamics of reversible bonds. Viscoelastic relaxation is primarily affected by “dissociation dynamics of the bonds” and “network structures”. These results are explained in the framework that the backbone, which is composed of essential chains supporting the stress, is broken by multiple dissociation events. This understanding of molecular dynamics in viscoelasticity will provide the foundation for designing transient networks.
The Application of Genetic Risk Scores in Rheumatic Diseases: A Perspective
Authors: Vaskimo Lotta M. , Gomon Georgy , Naamane Najib , Cordell Heather J. , Pratt Arthur , Knevel Rachel
Published: December 2023

Modest effect sizes have limited the clinical applicability of genetic associations with rheumatic diseases. Genetic risk scores (GRSs) have emerged as a promising solution to translate genetics into useful tools. In this review, we provide an overview of the recent literature on GRSs in rheumatic diseases. We describe six categories for which GRSs are used: (a) disease (outcome) prediction, (b) genetic commonalities between diseases, (c) disease differentiation, (d) interplay between genetics and environmental factors, (e) heritability and transferability, and (f) detecting causal relationships between traits. In our review of the literature, we identified current lacunas and opportunities for future work. First, the shortage of non-European genetic data restricts the application of many GRSs to European populations. Next, many GRSs are tested in settings enriched for cases that limit the transferability to real life. If intended for clinical application, GRSs are ideally tested in the relevant setting. Finally, there is much to elucidate regarding the co-occurrence of clinical traits to identify shared causal paths and elucidate relationships between the diseases. GRSs are useful instruments for this. Overall, the ever-continuing research on GRSs gives a hopeful outlook into the future of GRSs and indicates significant progress in their potential applications.
Assessing the Influence of HGT on the Evolution of Stress Responses in Microbial Communities from Shark Bay, Western Australia
Authors: Skoog Emilie J. , Fournier Gregory P. , Bosak Tanja
Published: December 2023

Pustular microbial mats in Shark Bay, Western Australia, are modern analogs of microbial systems that colonized peritidal environments before the evolution of complex life. To understand how these microbial communities evolved to grow and metabolize in the presence of various environmental stresses, the horizontal gene transfer (HGT) detection tool, MetaCHIP, was used to identify the horizontal transfer of genes related to stress response in 83 metagenome-assembled genomes from a Shark Bay pustular mat. Subsequently, maximum-likelihood phylogenies were constructed using these genes and their most closely related homologs from other environments in order to determine the likelihood of these HGT events occurring within the pustular mat. Phylogenies of several stress-related genes—including those involved in response to osmotic stress, oxidative stress and arsenic toxicity—indicate a potentially long history of HGT events and are consistent with these transfers occurring outside of modern pustular mats. The phylogeny of a particular osmoprotectant transport gene reveals relatively recent adaptations and suggests interactions between Planctomycetota and Myxococcota within these pustular mats. Overall, HGT phylogenies support a potentially broad distribution in the relative timing of the HGT events of stress-related genes and demonstrate ongoing microbial adaptations and evolution in these pustular mat communities.
Computational Characterization of Undifferentially Expressed Genes with Altered Transcription Regulation in Lung Cancer
Authors: Xin Ruihao , Cheng Qian , Chi Xiaohang , Feng Xin , Zhang Hang , Wang Yueying , Duan Meiyu , Xie Tunyang , Song Xiaonan , Yu Qiong , Fan Yusi , Huang Lan , Zhou Fengfeng
Published: December 2023

A transcriptome profiles the expression levels of genes in cells and has accumulated a huge amount of public data. Most of the existing biomarker-related studies investigated the differential expression of individual transcriptomic features under the assumption of inter-feature independence. Many transcriptomic features without differential expression were ignored from the biomarker lists. This study proposed a computational analysis protocol (mqTrans) to analyze transcriptomes from the view of high-dimensional inter-feature correlations. The mqTrans protocol trained a regression model to predict the expression of an mRNA feature from those of the transcription factors (TFs). The difference between the predicted and real expression of an mRNA feature in a query sample was defined as the mqTrans feature. The new mqTrans view facilitated the detection of thirteen transcriptomic features with differentially expressed mqTrans features, but without differential expression in the original transcriptomic values in three independent datasets of lung cancer. These features were called dark biomarkers because they would have been ignored in a conventional differential analysis. The detailed discussion of one dark biomarker, GBP5, and additional validation experiments suggested that the overlapping long non-coding RNAs might have contributed to this interesting phenomenon. In summary, this study aimed to find undifferentially expressed genes with significantly changed mqTrans values in lung cancer. These genes were usually ignored in most biomarker detection studies of undifferential expression. However, their differentially expressed mqTrans values in three independent datasets suggested their strong associations with lung cancer.
Manual Lymph Drainage for Post-COVID-19 Related Cough, Breathlessness, and Fatigue; Two Case Reports
Authors: Overall Bronwyn , Langley Kaori , Douglass Janet
Published: December 2023

Background: Persistent symptoms after SARS CoV-2 infection such as fatigue, shortness of breath, and cognitive dysfunction that cannot be explained by an alternative diagnosis have been termed long COVID and present a significant emerging public health problem. Current approaches include rehabilitation and symptom management involving multiple health disciplines and as yet there are no pharmaceutical approaches other than routine symptom management. Manual lymph drainage (MLD) has been used to support recovery during pulmonary rehabilitation and reduce chronic inflammation including symptoms associated with long COVID. Case description and outcomes: Two adult females who had reported long-COVID symptoms more than 10 weeks after the resolution of the acute infection were treated with MLD by Remedial Therapists trained in the Dr Vodder method of MLD. Respiratory function (Peak Flow Meter) and blood oxygen levels (Oximeter) were recorded before and after a one-minute sit-to-stand test prior to the treatment. The Dyspnea-12 Questionnaire, the Revised Piper Fatigue Scale, and Likert scales were used to collect client-reported outcomes. Six 45-min treatments were applied weekly, with a follow-up review and treatment at three months. In both cases, all outcomes improved after the third treatment with further improvement noted at three months. Conclusions: MLD may offer a non-invasive, non-pharmaceutical approach to the resolution of long-COVID symptoms such as cough, breathlessness, and fatigue.