bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Adsorption of 2,4-Dichlorobenzoic Acid on Carbon Nanofibers Produced by Catalytic Pyrolysis of Trichloroethylene and Acetonitrile
Authors: Ozerova Anna M. , Tayban Elena S. , Lipatnikova Inna L. , Potylitsyna Arina R. , Bauman Yury I. , Prosvirin Igor P. , Shubin Yury V. , Vedyagin Aleksey A. , Mishakov Ilya V. , Netskina Olga V.
Published: October 2023

In this study, carbon nanofibers were synthesized by the catalytic pyrolysis of trichloroethylene (CNF-Cl) and its mixture with acetonitrile (CNF-Cl-N). The addition of acetonitrile resulted in the incorporation of nitrogen in the CNF (0.33 at%), the removal of chlorine, an increase in oxygen-containing functional groups on the surface (from 1.6 to 3.6 at%), and an increase in the volume of mesopores (from 0.35 to 0.41 cm3·g−1) and macropores (from 0.115 to 0.393 cm3·g−1). The study of 2,4-DCBA adsorption on both CNFs revealed that the adsorption capacity showed dependence with a maximum on the 2,4-DCBA concentration in the solution, which was attributed to the electrostatic interactions of adsorbate with adsorbent at various pHs. The adsorption forces were effective over distances greater than the size of the 2,4-DCBA molecule, indicating volume pore filling. The maximum adsorption capacity occurred at 0.7–1.2 mM and a pH of 3.4 ± 0.1. CNF-Cl-N exhibited lower 2,4-DCBA adsorption than CNF-Cl-N due to its lower specific surface area, lower micropore volume, and higher concentration of oxygen-containing groups on the surface. However, these differences were not significant, suggesting that CNFs produced from both chlorine-containing wastes and their mixtures with nitrogen-containing compounds can be effectively used for water treatment to remove 2,4-DCBA.
The Role of Cyclin-Dependent Kinases (CDK) 4/6 in the Ovarian Tissue and the Possible Effects of Their Exogenous Inhibition
Authors: Scavone Graziana , Ottonello Silvia , Blondeaux Eva , Arecco Luca , Scaruffi Paola , Stigliani Sara , Cardinali Barbara , Borea Roberto , Paudice Michele , Vellone Valerio G. , Condorelli Margherita , Demeestere Isabelle , Lambertini Matteo
Published: October 2023

The combination of cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) 4/6 inhibitors with endocrine therapy is the standard treatment for patients with HR+/HER2− advanced breast cancer. Recently, this combination has also entered the early setting as an adjuvant treatment in patients with HR+/HER2− disease at a high risk of disease recurrence following (neo)adjuvant chemotherapy. Despite their current use in clinical practice, limited data on the potential gonadotoxicity of CDK4/6 inhibitors are available. Hence, fully informed treatment decision making by premenopausal patients concerned about the potential development of premature ovarian insufficiency and infertility with the proposed therapy remains difficult. The cell cycle progression of granulosa and cumulus cells is a critical process for ovarian function, especially for ensuring proper follicular growth and acquiring competence. Due to the pharmacological properties of CDK4/6 inhibitors, there could be a potentially negative impact on ovarian function and fertility in women of reproductive age. This review aims to summarize the role of the cyclin D-CDK4 and CDK6 complexes in the ovary and the potential impact of CDK4/6 inhibition on its physiological processes.
Cross-Talks between RKIP and YY1 through a Multilevel Bioinformatics Pan-Cancer Analysis
Authors: Baritaki Stavroula , Zaravinos Apostolos
Published: October 2023

Recent studies suggest that PEBP1 (also known as RKIP) and YY1, despite having distinct molecular functions, may interact and mutually influence each other’s activity. They exhibit reciprocal control over each other’s expression through regulatory loops, prompting the hypothesis that their interplay could be pivotal in cancer advancement and resistance to drugs. To delve into this interplay’s functional characteristics, we conducted a comprehensive analysis using bioinformatics tools across a range of cancers. Our results confirm the association between elevated YY1 mRNA levels and varying survival outcomes in diverse tumors. Furthermore, we observed differing degrees of inhibitory or activating effects of these two genes in apoptosis, cell cycle, DNA damage, and other cancer pathways, along with correlations between their mRNA expression and immune infiltration. Additionally, YY1/PEBP1 expression and methylation displayed connections with genomic alterations across different cancer types. Notably, we uncovered links between the two genes and different indicators of immunosuppression, such as immune checkpoint blockade response and T-cell dysfunction/exclusion levels, across different patient groups. Overall, our findings underscore the significant role of the interplay between YY1 and PEBP1 in cancer progression, influencing genomic changes, tumor immunity, or the tumor microenvironment. Additionally, these two gene products appear to impact the sensitivity of anticancer drugs, opening new avenues for cancer therapy.
Fractionation versus Adaptation for Compensation of Target Volume Changes during Online Adaptive Radiotherapy for Bladder Cancer: Answers from a Prospective Registry
Authors: Pöttgen Christoph , Hoffmann Christian , Gauler Thomas , Guberina Maja , Guberina Nika , Ringbaek Toke , Santiago Garcia Alina , Krafft Ulrich , Hadaschik Boris , Khouya Aymane , Stuschke Martin
Published: October 2023

Online adaptive radiotherapy (ART) allows adaptation of the dose distribution to the anatomy captured by with pre-adaptation imaging. ART is time-consuming, and thus intra-fractional deformations can occur. This prospective registry study analyzed the effects of intra-fraction deformations of clinical target volume (CTV) on the equivalent uniform dose (EUDCTV) of focal bladder cancer radiotherapy. Using margins of 5–10 mm around CTV on pre-adaptation imaging, intra-fraction CTV-deformations found in a second imaging study reduced the 10th percentile of EUDCTV values per fraction from 101.1% to 63.2% of the prescribed dose. Dose accumulation across fractions of a series was determined with deformable-image registration and worst-case dose accumulation that maximizes the correlation of cold spots. A strong fractionation effect was demonstrated—the EUDCTV was above 95% and 92.5% as determined by the two abovementioned accumulation methods, respectively, for all series of dose fractions. A comparison of both methods showed that the fractionation effect caused the EUDCTV of a series to be insensitive to EUDCTV-declines per dose fraction, and this could be explained by the small size and spatial variations of cold spots. Therefore, ART for each dose fraction is unnecessary, and selective ART for fractions with large inter-fractional deformations alone is sufficient for maintaining a high EUDCTV for a radiotherapy series.
Multidisciplinary Application of Robotic Surgery in Cancer Disease
Authors: Hoeppner Jens , Thomaschewski Michael
Published: October 2023

Robotic assistance systems are utilized in minimally invasive surgery with a rapidly increasing frequency [...]
The Incidence Trend and Management of Thyroid Cancer—What Has Changed in the Past Years: Own Experience and Literature Review
Authors: Kaliszewski Krzysztof , Diakowska Dorota , Miciak Michał , Jurkiewicz Krzysztof , Kisiel Michał , Makles Szymon , Dziekiewicz Anna , Biernat Szymon , Ludwig Maksymilian , Ludwig Bartłomiej , Sutkowska-Stępień Karolina , Sebastian Maciej , Domosławski Paweł , Sutkowski Krzysztof , Wojtczak Beata
Published: October 2023

Because of ambiguous and widely debated observations concerning the incidence, trend, and management of TC, we performed this analysis. We drew attention to some events, such as “cancer screening activity”, introduction of noninvasive follicular neoplasm with papillary-like nuclear features (NIFTP) to TC types, possibility of papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC) active surveillance (AS), occurrence of personalized medicine in TC management, and, finally, COVID-19 pandemic time. Because of the opinion that all changes have been made mostly by PTC, we compared it to the remaining types of TC in terms of incidence, clinical and pathological characteristics, and treatment. We analyzed patients treated in a single surgical center in eastern Europe (Poland). The prevalence of TC significantly increased from 5.15% in 2008 to 13.84% in 2015, and then significantly decreased to 1.33% in 2022 when the COVID-19 pandemic lasted (p < 0.0001). A similar trend was observed for PTC, when the incidence significantly increased to 13.99% in 2015 and then decreased to 1.38% in 2022 (p < 0.0001). At that time, the NIFTP category was introduced, and observation of PTMC began. The prevalence of FTC and MTC also increased until 2015 and then decreased. Significant differences in age, types of surgery, necessity of reoperation, and pTNM between PTCs and other types of TCs were observed. The average age was significantly lower in PTC patients than in patients with the remaining types of TC (p < 0.0001). Four milestones, including NIFTP introduction, the possibility of PTMC AS, personalized cancer medicine, and the COVID-19 pandemic, may have influenced the general statistics of TC.
Detection of Malignant Skin Lesions Based on Decision Fusion of Ensembles of Neural Networks
Authors: Ichim Loretta , Mitrica Razvan-Ionut , Serghei Madalina-Oana , Popescu Dan
Published: October 2023

Today, skin cancer, and especially melanoma, is an increasing and dangerous health disease. The high mortality rate of some types of skin cancers needs to be detected in the early stages and treated urgently. The use of neural network ensembles for the detection of objects of interest in images has gained more and more interest due to the increased performance of the results. In this sense, this paper proposes two ensembles of neural networks, based on the fusion of the decisions of the component neural networks for the detection of four skin lesions (basal cancer cell, melanoma, benign keratosis, and melanocytic nevi). The first system is based on separate learning of three neural networks (MobileNet V2, DenseNet 169, and EfficientNet B2), with multiple weights for the four classes of lesions and weighted overall prediction. The second system is made up of six binary models (one for each pair of classes) for each network; the fusion and prediction are conducted by weighted summation per class and per model. In total, 18 such binary models will be considered. The 91.04% global accuracy of this set of binary models is superior to the first system (89.62%). Separately, only for the binary classifications within the system was the individual accuracy better. The individual F1 score for each class and the global system varied from 81.36% to 94.17%. Finally, a critical comparison is made with similar works from the literature.
Proinflammatory IFNγ Is Produced by but Not Required for the Generation of Eomes+ Thymic Innate CD8 T Cells
Authors: Won Hee Yeun , Liman Nurcin , Li Can , Park Jung-Hyun
Published: October 2023

Innate CD8 T cells are proinflammatory effector T cells that achieve functional maturation in the thymus prior to their export into and maturation in peripheral tissues. Innate CD8 T cells produce the Th1 cytokine IFNγ but depend on the Th2 cytokine IL-4 for their generation. Thus, innate CD8 T cells can permute the intrathymic cytokine milieu by consuming a Th2 cytokine but driving a Th1 cytokine response. The cellular source of IL-4 is the NKT2 subset of invariant NKT (iNKT) cells. Consequently, NKT2 deficiency results in the lack of innate CD8 T cells. Whether NKT2 is the only iNKT subset and whether IL-4 is the only cytokine required for innate CD8 T cell generation, however, remains unclear. Here, we employed a mouse model of NKT1 deficiency, which is achieved by overexpression of the cytokine receptor IL-2Rβ, and assessed the role of other iNKT subsets and cytokines in innate CD8 T cell differentiation. Because IL-2Rβ-transgenic mice failed to generate both NKT1 and innate CD8 T cells, we postulated an in vivo requirement for IFNγ-producing NKT1 cells for innate CD8 T cell development. In-depth analyses of IL-2Rβ-transgenic mice and IFNγ-deficient mice, however, demonstrated that neither NKT1 nor IFNγ was required to induce Eomes or to drive innate CD8 T cell generation. Instead, in vivo administration of recombinant IL-4 sufficed to restore the development of innate CD8 T cells in NKT1-deficient mice, affirming that intrathymic IL-4, and not IFNγ, is the limiting factor and key regulator of innate CD8 T cell generation in the thymus.
Friction Coefficient Dynamics of Tribological Coatings from Engine Lubricants: Analysis and Interpretation
Authors: Domínguez García Saúl , Béjar Gómez Luis , Maya Yescas Rafael , Lara Romero Javier , Castro Cedeño Baltazar , Espinosa Medina Marco Antonio
Published: October 2023

Even today, there is no full understanding of the relationship between the physical, chemical, and mechanical properties and the behavior of the lubricating films formed in tribological systems. Most of the published scientific research measures and reports the overall values of friction and wear, but the information given via statistical signals in the tribological tests is, in general, dismissed, leaving a hole in the study of the dynamics of tribological systems. In this work, an experimental study of statistical friction data, coating characteristics, and tribological performance is carried out using a pin-on-disk tribometer to test some metallic samples coated with lubricant films under several experimental conditions. The results indicate that long deposition times at high deposition temperatures of coatings from engine oil develop low-friction intervals, which fall until 20% of the uncoated coefficient friction. However, an unexpected and unfavorable behavior of the coatings was observed for the short deposition times and high temperature. In these conditions, the developed friction profiles reached a maximum level of friction that was 20% more than the uncoated coefficient friction. Moreover, it was found that the proper analysis and interpretation of the statistical data, in combination with the characterization of the coatings, describes the dynamics of the interactions between the bodies in contact and reveals the transitions of the surfaces with non-homogeneous properties throughout their depth.
Determining Resampling Ratios Using BSMOTE and SVM-SMOTE for Identifying Rare Attacks in Imbalanced Cybersecurity Data
Authors: Bagui Sikha S. , Mink Dustin , Bagui Subhash C. , Subramaniam Sakthivel
Published: October 2023

Machine Learning is widely used in cybersecurity for detecting network intrusions. Though network attacks are increasing steadily, the percentage of such attacks to actual network traffic is significantly less. And here lies the problem in training Machine Learning models to enable them to detect and classify malicious attacks from routine traffic. The ratio of actual attacks to benign data is significantly high and as such forms highly imbalanced datasets. In this work, we address this issue using data resampling techniques. Though there are several oversampling and undersampling techniques available, how these oversampling and undersampling techniques are most effectively used is addressed in this paper. Two oversampling techniques, Borderline SMOTE and SVM-SMOTE, are used for oversampling minority data and random undersampling is used for undersampling majority data. Both the oversampling techniques use KNN after selecting a random minority sample point, hence the impact of varying KNN values on the performance of the oversampling technique is also analyzed. Random Forest is used for classification of the rare attacks. This work is done on a widely used cybersecurity dataset, UNSW-NB15, and the results show that 10% oversampling gives better results for both BMSOTE and SVM-SMOTE.
Double-Outlet Left Ventricle: Case Series and Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Lioncino Michele , Calcagni Giulio , Badolato Fausto , Antonelli Giovanni , Leonardi Benedetta , de Zorzi Andrea , Secinaro Aurelio , Brancaccio Gianluca , Albanese Sonia , Carotti Adriano , Drago Fabrizio , Rinelli Gabriele
Published: October 2023

Double-outlet left ventricle (DOLV) is an abnormal ventriculo-arterial connection characterized by the origin of both great arteries from the morphological left ventricle. The aim of our paper is to describe the morphological and imaging features of DOLV and to assess the prevalence of the associated malformations and their surgical outcomes. METHODS From 2011 to 2022, we retrospectively reviewed the electronic case records of patients diagnosed with DOLV at the Bambino Gesu Children’s Hospital. A systematic search was developed in MEDLINE, Web of Science, and EMBASE databases to identify reports assessing the morphology and outcomes of DOLV between 1975 and 2023. RESULTS: Over a median follow-up of 9.9 years (IQR 7.8–11.7 y), four cases of DOLV were identified at our institution. Two patients were diagnosed with (S,D,D) DOLV subaortic VSD and pulmonary stenosis (PS): one patient had (S,D,D) DOLV with doubly committed VSD and hypoplastic right ventricle, and another patient had (S,D,L) DOLV with subaortic VSD and PS (malposition type). Pulmonary stenosis was the most commonly associated lesion (75%). LITERATURE REVIEW: After systematic evaluation, a total of 12 reports fulfilled the eligibility criteria and were included in our analysis. PS or right ventricular outflow tract obstruction was the most commonly associated lesion (69%, 95% CI 62–76%). The most common locations of VSD were subaortic (pooled prevalence: 75%, 95% CI 68–81), subpulmonary (15%, 95% CI 10–21), and doubly committed (7%, 95% CI 4–12). The position of the great arteries showed that d-transposition of the aorta was present in 128 cases (59% 95% CI 42–74), and l-transposition was present in 77 cases (35%, 95% CI 29–43).
The Effect of TMJ Intervention on Instant Postural Changes and Dystonic Contractions in Patients Diagnosed with Dystonia: A Pilot Study
Authors: Akbulut Ayse Selenge
Published: October 2023

(1) Background: The aim of the present study is to analyze the instant postural changes and changes in the dystonic contractions among patients with dystonia following the use of an intraoral device called a key integrative dynamic TMJ treatment appliance (KIDTA). (2) Methods: Twelve subjects, previously diagnosed with dystonia were enrolled. Their existing records were utilized to assess the changes in their posture and dystonic contractions. The posture analysis was conducted using a mobile application (APECS). The initial records (T0) and records acquired after the delivery of the KIDTA (T1) were utilized in the analysis. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was performed to compare parameters between T0 and T1, with a significance level set at p < 0.05. (3) Results: Based on the Wilcoxon signed-rank test, statistically significant differences in T1 compared to T0 were observed in the severity of dystonic spasms, body alignment, head shift, head tilt, shoulder alignment, shoulder angle, axillae alignment, ribcage tilt, pelvic tilt, knee angle, and tibia angle (p < 0.05). (4) Conclusions: Within the limitations of the present pilot study, an intervention to the TMJ through a KIDTA appliance seems to mitigate the severity of dystonic contractions and improve the posture with respect to certain postural parameters.
Robust Minimum Divergence Estimation for the Multinomial Circular Logistic Regression Model
Authors: Castilla Elena , Ghosh Abhik
Published: October 2023

Circular data are extremely important in many different contexts of natural and social science, from forestry to sociology, among many others. Since the usual inference procedures based on the maximum likelihood principle are known to be extremely non-robust in the presence of possible data contamination, in this paper, we develop robust estimators for the general class of multinomial circular logistic regression models involving multiple circular covariates. Particularly, we extend the popular density-power-divergence-based estimation approach for this particular set-up and study the asymptotic properties of the resulting estimators. The robustness of the proposed estimators is illustrated through extensive simulation studies and few important real data examples from forest science and meteorology.
Addressing Language Diversity in Early Years Mathematics: Proposed Classroom Practices through a Live Brief Assessment
Authors: Hizli Alkan Sinem , Sahin Ipek Derya
Published: October 2023

There is a growing emphasis on the role of language in teaching and learning mathematics, most significantly in classrooms with increased language diversity. Consequently, teachers face considerable challenges in accommodating diverse needs and must employ strategies to support all students. It is, therefore, crucial to provide prospective teachers with opportunities to enhance their pedagogical approaches while raising their awareness of the relationship between language and mathematics. In this respect, Live Brief assessments in Higher Education, which involve students working on authentic projects/tasks from a school, may be a promising avenue. This research draws on the 19 Live Brief group presentations prepared by a total of 118 Year 1 prospective primary school teachers, specifically focusing on the language-related challenges faced by a local school in early years mathematics. The data encompassed prospective teachers’ proposed practices, including one-to-one, small group and whole class activities, that aimed to address language diversity. Data analysis was informed by Moschkovich’s three perspectives on the relation between language and teaching and learning mathematics, namely lexicon, register and situated-sociocultural perspectives. While a lexicon perspective was commonly evident in the activities, the manifestation of a situated socio-cultural perspective mainly in the one–to-one activities is noteworthy, given its social and discursive nature. Three themes encapsulated a range of practices suggested in the findings: explicit vocabulary teaching, different strategies of scaffolding and utilising multi-sensory approaches. While the lexicon and register perspectives were commonly evident, the situated socio-cultural perspective was much less commonly manifested in the practices. We offer implications to initial teacher education curriculum, future research and policies about teaching and learning mathematics.
Joint Optimization of Memory Sharing and Communication Distance for Virtual Machine Instantiation in Cloudlet Networks
Authors: Shao Jianbo , Liang Junbin
Published: October 2023

Cloudlet networks are an emerging distributed data processing paradigm, which contain multiple cloudlets deployed beside base stations to serve local user devices (UDs). Each cloudlet is a small data center with limited memory, in which multiple virtual machines (VMs) can be instantiated. Each VM runs a UD’s application components and provides dedicated services for that UD. The number of VMs that serve UDs with low latency is limited by a lack of sufficient memory of cloudlets. Memory deduplication technology is expected to solve this problem by sharing memory pages between VMs. However, maximizing page sharing means that more VMs that can share the same memory pages should be instantiated on the same cloudlet, which prevents the communication distance between UDs and their VMs from minimizing, as each VM cannot be instantiated in the cloudlet with the shortest communication distance from its UD. In this paper, we study the problem of VM instantiation with the joint optimization of memory sharing and communication distance in cloudlet networks. First, we formulate this problem as a bi-objective optimization model. Then, we propose an iterative heuristic algorithm based on the ε-constraint method, which decomposes original problems into several single-objective optimization subproblems and iteratively obtains the subproblems’ optimal solutions. Finally, the proposed algorithm is evaluated through a large number of experiments on the Google cluster workload tracking dataset and the Shanghai Telecom base station dataset. Experimental results show that the proposed algorithm outperforms other benchmark algorithms. Overall, the memory sharing between VMs increased by 3.6%, the average communication distance between VMs and UDs was reduced by 22.7%, and the running time decreased by approximately 29.7% compared to the weighted sum method.
High Performance Software Architectures for Remote High-Speed Data Acquisition
Authors: Turkmanović Haris , Karličić Mihajlo , Rajović Vladimir , Popović Ivan
Published: October 2023

There are various tools for real-time data acquisition and analysis of high-frequency signals. Usually, the tools for data acquisition and analysis are incompatible with each other, expensive, or require the utilization of various technologies. Designing a unique toolset for real-time data acquisition and analysis of high-frequency signals presents a large challenge, both in terms of hardware and software design. Some of the main challenges include fulfilling strict real-time performance requirements, using cost-effective hardware components, and designing a software architecture with minimal software latency for data sampling on an embedded platform and data analysis on a PC machine. This paper presents a software architecture design methodology for embedded platforms, including an RTOS and an Ethernet interface, along with the application architecture on the host side. To demonstrate the advantages of the proposed methodology, a prototype consisting of the STM32H747 microcontroller, FreeRTOS operating system, and a GUI application based on the Qt framework has been created. It has been shown that using the proposed architecture design methodology makes it possible to preserve the maximal hardware sampling rate utilizing a 100 Mbps Ethernet link. In the experiments, sampling rates up to 4.57 MSps for 10-bit resolution and real-time transfer of data over Ethernet link and visualization on host PC have been achieved with this specific MCU.
A Finite Element Analysis Model-Based Study on the Effect of the Frame on Membrane Stresses in Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells
Authors: Zhang Zikuan , Tan Yongle , Yang Daozeng , Chu Tiankuo , Li Bing
Published: October 2023

The frame of a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) has an important impact on durability and reliability of a proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC). In this study, the finite element analysis method has been used to build a two-dimensional model that can quickly screen and compare different frame structures and improve the design. Simulation results show that the membrane in the gap between the frame and the active area will generate a large amount of stress, close to the yield strength of the membrane under this condition, after application of the pressure difference. Further, an appropriate frame structure can improve the structural consistency between the frame and the area with moving materials, reduce membrane stress and improve reliability. The problem of stress concentration on the membrane at the joint area is solved by introducing a double-layer frame structure to limit membrane deformation. Hence, this can effectively alleviate the impact of the gap at the joint area and improve the durability of MEA.
Comparative Physiological, Transcriptomic, and Metabolomic Analyses of Acacia mangium Provide New Insights into Its Molecular Mechanism of Self-Incompatibility
Authors: Zhang Ruping , Huang Liejian , Zeng Bingshan
Published: October 2023

Acacia mangium is well known as a valuable commercial tree species in the Acacia genus. A. mangium was recently found to be self-incompatible (SI), but its SI mechanism is not clear, which has hindered the progress of genetic improvement of A. mangium with strong resistance. To confirm the SI type of A. mangium, pollen germination was observed via fluorescence microscopy at 0 h, 3 h, 6 h, 9 h, 12 h, and 24 h after self-pollination. We found over ninety percent of the pollen grains produced no pollen tube growth on the stigma/style. To further explore the SI molecular mechanism of A. mangium, tests of the transcriptome and metabolome were carried out after self-pollination. Observations of pollen germination after self-pollination using fluorescence microscopy suggested that the SI type of A. mangium is gametophytic self-incompatibility (GSI). A combined transcriptomic and metabolomic analysis showed that DEGs (differentially expressed genes) related to SI (6 S-glycoproteins, 93 F-box proteins, 69 26S proteasomes, 38 calcium-dependent protein kinases/calmodulin and 41 thioredoxin genes) were significantly enriched in six KEGG (sulfur metabolism, tyrosine metabolism, phenylalanine metabolism, butanoate metabolism, and valine, leucine, and isoleucine degradation). Further analysis of these six pathways revealed the enrichment of SI-related DEGs corresponding to succinate, methylmalonate, and 3-hydroxypropane. These three metabolites were significantly downregulated. The analysis of transcripts and metabolites suggested that transcripts of SI-related gene families (thioredoxin and F-box protein) were significantly upregulated under the regulation of transcription factors (TFs) after self-pollination, leading to a decrease in metabolites (such as succinate, methylmalonate, and 3-hydroxypropionate). We also further speculated that TFs (MYB, HB-HD-ZIP, AP2/ERF-ERF, and bZIP) and gene families (thioredoxin and F-box protein) were important factors related to the SI of A. mangium.
Using Dielectric Constant Measurement to Monitor Ethanol Fermentation and Anaerobic Co-Digestion of Lignocellulosic Biomass
Authors: Jákói Zoltán Péter , Lemmer Balázs , Dobozi Réka , Hodúr Cecilia , Beszédes Sándor
Published: October 2023

Our study aimed to investigate the applicability of dielectric measurements across three key stages of plant-based biomass utilization: enzymatic hydrolysis of native and microwave pre-processed corn-cob residues, ethanol fermentation of the hydrolysates, and anaerobic co-digestion with meat-industry wastewater sludge. Our major findings reveal that microwave pre-treatment not only accelerates enzymatic hydrolysis but also improves sugar yield. A strong linear correlation (r = 0.987–0.979; R2 = 0.974–0.978) was observed between the dielectric constant and sugar concentrations, offering a reliable monitoring mechanism. During ethanol fermentation, microwave pre-treated samples resulted in higher yields; however, the overall bioconversion efficiency was lower. Dielectric measurements also exhibited a strong linear correlation (r = 0.989–0.997; R2 = 0.979–0.993) with ethanol concentration. Finally, anaerobic co-digestion could be effectively monitored through the measurement of the dielectric constants (r = 0.981–0.996; R2 = 0.963–0.993), with microwave-treated samples showing higher biogas yields. These results demonstrate that dielectric measurements provide a promising alternative for monitoring and controlling biomass utilization processes.
Transient Leukemoid Reaction from T-Cell Large Granular Lymphocytes Post Autologous Stem Cell Transplant in a Patient Affected by Hodgkin Lymphoma
Authors: Duminuco Andrea , Parisi Marina , Milone Giulio Antonio , Cupri Alessandra , Leotta Salvatore , Palumbo Giuseppe A. , Parrinello Nunziatina Laura , Scuderi Grazia , Triolo Anna , Milone Giuseppe
Published: October 2023

Monoclonal T-cell lymphocytosis has been reported in patients with concomitant autoimmune diseases, viral infections, or immunodeficiencies. Referred to as T-cell large granular lymphocytic leukemia (T-LGLL), most cases cannot identify the triggering cause. Only small case series have been reported in the literature, and no treatment consensus exists. T-cell lymphocytosis may also appear after the transplant of hematopoietic stem cells or solid organs. Rare cases have been reported in patients undergoing autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) for hematological diseases (including multiple myeloma or non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma). Here, we describe the singular case of a patient who underwent ASCT for Hodgkin’s lymphoma and displayed the onset of T-LGLL with an uncommonly high number of lymphocytes in peripheral blood and their subsequent spontaneous remission.
Applying a Health Equity Lens to Work-Related Motor Vehicle Safety in the United States
Authors: Pratt Stephanie , Hagan-Haynes Kyla
Published: October 2023

Motor vehicle crashes (MVCs) are the leading cause of fatal work-related injuries in the United States. Research assessing sociodemographic risk disparities for work-related MVCs is limited, yet structural and systemic inequities at work and during commutes likely contribute to disproportionate MVC risk. This paper summarizes the literature on risk disparities for work-related MVCs by sociodemographic and employment characteristics and identifies worker populations that have been largely excluded from previous research. The social–ecological model is used as a framework to identify potential causes of disparities at five levels—individual, interpersonal, organizational, community, and public policy. Expanded data collection and analyses of work-related MVCs are needed to understand and reduce disparities for pedestrian workers, workers from historically marginalized communities, workers with overlapping vulnerabilities, and workers not adequately covered by employer policies and safety regulations. In addition, there is a need for more data on commuting-related MVCs in the United States. Inadequate access to transportation, which disproportionately affects marginalized populations, may make travel to and from work less safe and limit individuals’ access to employment. Identifying and remedying inequities in work-related MVCs, whether during the day or while commuting, will require the efforts of industry and multiple public sectors, including public health, transportation, and labor.
Epigenetic Modulators as Therapeutic Agents in Cancer
Authors: Patnaik Eshaan , Madu Chikezie , Lu Yi
Published: October 2023

Epigenetics play a crucial role in gene regulation and cellular processes. Most importantly, its dysregulation can contribute to the development of tumors. Epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation and histone acetylation, are reversible processes that can be utilized as targets for therapeutic intervention. DNA methylation inhibitors disrupt DNA methylation patterns by inhibiting DNA methyltransferases. Such inhibitors can restore normal gene expression patterns, and they can be effective against various forms of cancer. Histone deacetylase inhibitors increase histone acetylation levels, leading to altered gene expressions. Like DNA methylation inhibitors, histone methyltransferase inhibitors target molecules involved in histone methylation. Bromodomain and extra-terminal domain inhibitors target proteins involved in gene expression. They can be effective by inhibiting oncogene expression and inducing anti-proliferative effects seen in cancer. Understanding epigenetic modifications and utilizing epigenetic inhibitors will offer new possibilities for cancer research.
The Outcome of Childhood Immunoglobulin A Nephropathy with Acute Kidney Injury at the Onset of the Disease—National Study
Authors: Mizerska-Wasiak M. , Płatos E. , Małdyk J. , Miklaszewska M. , Drożdż D. , Firszt-Adamczyk A. , Stankiewicz R. , Bieniaś B. , Sikora P. , Rybi-Szumińska A. , Wasilewska A. , Szczepańska M. , Drożynska-Duklas M. , Żurowska A. , Pukajło-Marczyk A. , Zwolińska D. , Tkaczyk M. , Pańczyk-Tomaszewska M.
Published: October 2023

Introduction: IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is the most common glomerulonephritis worldwide. Decreased glomerular filtration rate is a known risk factor for disease progression. Aim: We aimed to examine factors that may contribute to disease progression in children that present with impaired eGFR at the onset of IgAN. Materials and methods: Of the 175 patients with IgAN from the Polish Registry of Children with IgAN and IgAVN, 54 (31%) patients with IgAN who had an onset of renal function impairment (GFR < 90 mL/min) were eligible for the study. All of them were analyzed for initial symptoms (GFR according to Schwartz formula, creatinine, proteinuria, IgA, C3), renal biopsy result with assessment by Oxford classification, treatment used (R—renoprotection, P—prednisone+R, Aza—azathioprine+P+R, Cyc—cyclophosphamide+P+R, CsA—cyclosporine+P+R, MMF—mycophenolate mofetil+P+R), and distant follow-up. Based on the GFR score obtained at the end, patients were divided into two groups: A—GFR > 90 mL/min and B—GFR < 90 mL/min. Results: In the study group, the mean age of onset was 12.87 ± 3.57 years, GFR was 66.1 ± 17.3 mL/min, and proteinuria was 18.1 (0–967) mg/kg/d. Renal biopsy was performed 0.2 (0–7) years after the onset of the disease, and MESTC score averaged 2.57 ± 1.6. Treatment was R only in 39% of children, P+R in 20%, Aza+P+R in 28%, Cyc+P+R in 9%, CsA+P+R in 7%, and MMF+P+R in 3%. The length of the observation period was 2.16 (0.05–11) years. At the follow-up, Group A had 30 patients (56%) and Group B had 24 patients (44%). There were no significant differences in any of the other biochemical parameters (except creatinine) or proteinuria values between the groups and the frequency of the MESTC score ≥ 2 and <2 was not significantly different between Groups A and B. Patients with normal GFR at the follow-up (Group A) were significantly more likely to have received prednisone and/or immunosuppressive treatment than those in Group B (p < 0.05) Conclusions: In a population of Polish children with IgAN and decreased renal function at the onset of the disease, 56% had normal GFR in remote observation. The use of immunosuppressive/corticosteroids treatment in children with IgAN and impaired glomerular filtration rate at the beginning of the disease may contribute to the normalization of GFR in the outcome, although this requires confirmation in a larger group of pediatric patients.
Prediction of Tubal Rupture in Ectopic Pregnancy Using Methotrexate Treatment Protocols and Hematological Markers
Authors: Seyfettinoglu Sevtap , Adıguzel Fikriye Işıl
Published: October 2023

Ectopic pregnancy is a pregnancy complication in which the embryo implants outside the uterine cavity. Although medical treatment is chosen first, sometimes a rupture may occur, and surgical treatment may be required. The parameters to predict rupture have been the subject of many studies. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of different methotrexate protocols in the treatment of ectopic pregnancy and determine the parameters and methotrexate treatment protocols that can predict the risk of rupture. A total of 128 patients diagnosed with ectopic pregnancy were included in this study. Patients were separated into three categories based on their treatment protocols. Regarding the occurrence of rupture, all three groups were compared. The hematological parameters and methotrexate treatment protocols were analyzed and compared between groups. The mean age was 31.9 years. Parity was significantly higher in patients who received multiple doses of methotrexate compared to the other groups. There were significant variations observed among the groups regarding parity, initial β-hCG values, hematocrit (HTC), and mean corpuscular volume (MCV) (p = 0.048, p < 0.001, p = 0.019, and p = 0.047, respectively). According to receiver operating characteristic analysis, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) levels were significantly associated with histopathologically confirmed tubal rupture (p < 0.05). NLR levels should be examined in ectopic pregnancy, and the possibility of rupture should be considered in cases with high NLR levels. The potential of NLR to predict ectopic pregnancy rupture should be explored in multicenter prospective studies.
Prognostic Value of a New Tool (the 3D/3D+) for Predicting 30-Day Mortality in Emergency Department Patients Aged 75 Years and Older
Authors: Garcia-Pérez Dolors , Vena-Martínez Anabelén , Robles-Perea Laura , Roselló-Padullés Teresa , Espaulella-Panicot Joan , Arnau Anna
Published: October 2023

The 3D/3D+ multidimensional geriatric assessment tool provides an optimal model of emergency care for patients aged 75 and over who attend the Emergency Department (ED). The baseline, or static, component (3D) stratifies the degree of frailty prior to the acute illness, while the current, or dynamic, component (3D+) assesses the multidimensional impact caused by the acute illness and helps to guide the choice of care facility for patients upon their discharge from the ED. The objective of this study was to evaluate the prognostic value of the 3D/3D+ to predict short- and long-term adverse outcomes in ED patients aged 75 years and older. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to identify the predictors of mortality 30 days after 3D/3D+ assessment. Two hundred and seventy-eight patients (59.7% women) with a median age of 86 years (interquartile range: 83–90) were analyzed. According to the baseline component (3D), 83.1% (95% CI: 78.2–87.3) presented some degree of frailty. The current component (3D+) presented alterations in 60.1% (95% CI: 54.1–65.9). The choice of care facility at ED discharge indicated by the 3D/3D+ was considered appropriate in 96.4% (95% CI: 93.0–98.0). Thirty-day all-cause mortality was 19.4%. Delirium and functional decline were the dimensions on the 3D/3D+ that were independently associated with 30-day mortality. These two dimensions had an area under receiver operating characteristic of 0.80 (95% CI: 0.73–0.86) for predicting 30-day mortality. The 3D/3D+ tool enhances the provision of comprehensive care by ED professionals, guides them in the choice of patients’ discharge destination, and has a prognostic validity that serves to establish future therapeutic objectives.
Surface-Modified Silver Nanoparticles and Their Encapsulation in Liposomes Can Treat MCF-7 Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Moors Ellenor , Sharma Vinayak , Tian Furong , Javed Bilal
Published: October 2023

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have emerged as a promising tool for cancer treatment due to their unique physicochemical and biological properties. However, their clinical applications are limited by their potential cytotoxicity caused due to oxidation stress and non-specific cellular uptake pathways. To overcome these barriers, surface modifications of AgNPs have been proposed as an effective strategy to enhance their biocompatibility and specificity toward cancer cells. In this study, AgNPs were synthesised using the chemical reduction method and subsequently conjugated with various capping agents such as Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and Bovine Serum Albumin (BSA). Further, this study involves the synthesis of liposomes by using dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine lipid (DPPC) and cholesterol to increase the biocompatibility and bioavailability of AgNPs to MCF-7 breast cancer cells. In vitro, cytotoxicity studies were performed to determine which surface modification method exhibited the highest cytotoxic effect on the MCF-7 breast cancer cells, which was determined through the MTT assay. The AgNPs conjugated with BSA exhibited the highest cytotoxicity at the lowest dosage, with an IC50 of 2.5 μL/mL. The BSA-AgNPs induced a dose-dependent rise in cytotoxicity through the enhancement of nucleophilic dissolution of the AgNPs in cancer cells. In comparison, the unmodified AgNPs had an IC50 value of 3.0 μL/mL, while the PVP-modified AgNPs had an IC50 of 4.24 μL/mL. AgNPs encapsulated in liposomes had an IC50 value of 5.08 μL/mL, which shows that the encapsulation of AgNPs in liposomes controls their entry into cancer cells. The findings of this research have provided insights into the potential use of surface-modified AgNPs and liposomal encapsulated AgNPs as novel therapeutic tools to overcome the conventional treatment limitations of breast cancer cells.
Surface Activation of Calcium Zirconate-Calcium Stabilized Zirconia Eutectic Ceramics with Bioactive Wollastonite-Tricalcium Phosphate Coatings
Authors: Sola Daniel , Chueca Eloy , Wang Shunheng , Peña José Ignacio
Published: October 2023

In this work, we have developed and characterized a ceramic composite based on a core of directionally solidified calcium zirconate-calcium stabilized zirconia (CZO-CSZ) eutectic composite coated with a bioactive glass-ceramic. The aim is to research new orthopedic implants as an alternative to conventional 3Y-TZP bioinert ceramics. The CZO-CSZ eutectic rods were grown from the melt of rods of CaO-ZrO2 in the eutectic composition using the laser floating zone technique (LFZ). The mechanical results indicated that directional eutectics prepared with this technique exhibited good mechanical strength and significant hardness and toughness. The LFZ technique was also used to melt the bioactive coating previously placed by dip coating on the CZO-CSZ rod surface. Depending on the thickness of the coating and the applied laser power, an alloying or coating process was achieved. In the first case, the coating was diluted with the surface of the eutectic cylinder, leading to the segregation of the calcium zirconate and zirconia phases and the formation of a bioactive phase embedding zirconia particles. In the second case, a layer of ceramic glass was formed, well attached to the eutectic cylinder. These layers were both studied from the microstructural and bioactivity points of view.
Antibacterial Activity of Root Repair Cements in Contact with Dentin—An Ex Vivo Study
Authors: Koutroulis Andreas , Valen Håkon , Ørstavik Dag , Kapralos Vasileios , Camilleri Josette , Sunde Pia Titterud
Published: October 2023

This study assessed the antibacterial characteristics of the dentin/material interface and dentin surfaces exposed to experimental hydraulic calcium silicate cement (HCSC) with or without bioactive glass (BG) replacement (20% or 40%) or mixed with a silver nanoparticle (SNP) solution (1 or 2 mg/mL), and Biodentine, TotalFill BC RRM putty and Intermediate Restorative Material (IRM). Human root dentin segments with test materials were assessed at 1 or 28 days. In one series, the specimens were split to expose the dentin and material surfaces. A 24 h direct contact test was conducted against three-day established Enterococcus faecalis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa monospecies biofilms. In another series, the dentin/material interface of intact specimens was exposed to biofilm membranes for 3 days and the antibacterial activity was assessed via confocal microscopy. The interface was additionally characterised. All one-day material and dentin surfaces were antibacterial. Dentin surfaces exposed to HCSC with 40% BG-replacement, Biodentine and IRM had decreased antibacterial properties compared to those of the other cements. The HCSC mixed with a 2 mg/mL SNP solution had the highest antimicrobial effect in the confocal assay. The interfacial characteristics of HCSCs were similar. The test materials conferred antibacterial activity onto the adjacent dentin. The BG reduced the antibacterial effect of dentin exposed to HCSC; a 2 mg/mL SNP solution increased the antibacterial potential for longer interaction periods (three-day exposure).