bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Verification and Accuracy Analysis of Single-Frequency Occultation Processing Based on the BeiDou Navigation System
Authors: Li Ruimin , Du Qifei , Yang Ming , Tian Haoran , Sun Yueqiang , Meng Xiangguang , Bai Weihua , Wang Xianyi , Tan Guangyuan , Hu Peng
Published: April 2023

GNSS single-frequency occultation processing technology has the advantage of simple instrumentation, but it is not clear about the accuracy of the Beidou-based single-frequency occultation processing. This paper verifies the single-frequency occultation processing algorithm of the BeiDou navigation system (BDS) and analyzes its accuracy based on occultation observation data from the FY3E satellite. The research aimed to verify the single-frequency ionospheric relative total electron content (relTEC), analyze the accuracy of the reconstructed second frequency B3∗’s excess phase Doppler, and analyze the accuracy of the refractive index products. Results: (1) As for relTEC and excess phase Doppler, the correlation coefficient between single-frequency occultation processing and dual-frequency occultation processing is greater than 0.95. (2) The relative average deviations of the excess phase Doppler of B3∗ are mostly less than 0.2%, and the relative standard deviations are mostly around 0.5%. (3) The bias index and root mean square index of single/dual-frequency inversion have good consistency compared with ERA5 data. All the results show that the single- and dual-frequency inversion refractive index products have comparable accuracies, and the accuracy of the standard deviation of single-frequency inversion refractive index products over 25 km being slightly lower than that of dual-frequency inversion refractive index products.
Effects of Visitor Influx on the Indoor Climate of the Milan Cathedral
Authors: Huerto-Cardenas Harold Enrique , Aste Niccolò , Del Pero Claudio , Della Torre Stefano , Leonforte Fabrizio , Blavier Camille Luna Stella
Published: April 2023

The indoor climate of non-climatized churches is usually subject to cyclical fluctuations of temperature and relative humidity induced by external climate conditions which might be dampened by the high thermal capacity of their envelope. However, several phenomena affect their indoor climate (e.g., internal gains due to people and artificial lighting, air infiltration, etc.), which lead to environmental variations that might jeopardize the artworks contained within. In particular, one of the most influential parameters that may affect non-climatized churches is the massive and intermittent presence of people who constantly visit their spaces. In such regard, long-term monitoring allows the collection of environmental data with different building operation conditions and visitor fluxes. This paper analyses the indoor climate of the Milan Cathedral (Duomo di Milano) in Italy for three continuous years (including the lockdown period that occurred in 2020 caused by the COVID-19 pandemic), with a focus on visitors’ effects on the indoor environment and the conservation of the main artworks contained within. The results of the analysis have shown that spaces with huge volume are most influenced by the opening of the doors rather than the hygrothermal contribution of the intermittent presence of massive crowds. Moreover, the absence of visitors for a prolonged period correlates with an improvement in the indoor conservation conditions for artworks, especially those made of hygroscopic materials, due to the reduction in short, rapid climate fluctuations.
Correction: Phairuang et al. Ambient Nanoparticles (PM0.1) Mapping in Thailand. Atmosphere 2023, 14, 66
Authors: Phairuang Worradorn , Piriyakarnsakul Suthida , Inerb Muanfun , Hongtieab Surapa , Thongyen Thunyapat , Chomanee Jiraporn , Boongla Yaowatat , Suriyawong Phuchiwan , Samae Hisam , Chanonmuang Phuvasa , Suwattiga Panwadee , Chetiyanukornkul Thaneeya , Panyametheekul Sirima , Amin Muhammad , Hata Mitsuhiko , Furuuchi Masami
Published: April 2023

There were errors in the original article [...]
Recent Urban Issues Related to Particulate Matter in Ploiesti City, Romania
Authors: Sanda Mia , Dunea Daniel , Iordache Stefania , Predescu Laurentiu , Predescu Mirela , Pohoata Alin , Onutu Ion
Published: April 2023

The present work aimed to assess the ambient levels of air pollution with particulate matter for both mass concentrations and number of particles for various fractions in Ploiesti city during the lockdown period determined by the COVID-19 pandemic (March–June 2020). The PM10 continuously monitored data was retrieved from four air quality automatic stations that are connected to the Romanian National Network for Monitoring Air Quality and located in the city. Because no other information was available for other more dangerous fractions, we used monitoring campaigns employing the Lighthouse 3016 IAQ particle counter near the locations of monitoring stations assessing size-segregated mass fraction concentrations (PM0.5, PM1, PM2.5, PM5, PM10, and TPM) and particle number concentration (differential Δ) range between 0.3 and 10 microns during the specified timeline between 8.00 and 11.00 a.m., which were considered the morning rush hours interval. Interpolation maps estimating the spatial distribution of the mass concentrations of various PM fractions and particle number concentration were drawn using the IDW algorithm in ArcGIS 10.8.2. Regarding the particle count of 0.5 microns during the lockdown, the smallest number was recorded when the restriction of citizens’ movement was declared (24 March 2020), which was 5.8-times lower (17,301.3 particles/cm3) compared to a common day outside the lockdown period (100,047.3 particles/cm3). Similar results were observed for other particle sizes. Regarding the spatial distribution of the mass concentrations, the smaller fractions were higher in the middle of the city and west (PM0.5, PM1, and PM2.5) while the PM10 was more concentrated in the west. These are strongly related to traffic patterns. The analysis is useful to establish the impact of PM and the assessment of urban exposure and better air quality planning. Long-term exposure to PM in conjunction with other dangerous air pollutants in urban aerosols of Ploiesti can lead to potential adverse effects on the population, especially for residents located in the most impacted areas.
Ab Initio Double-Differential Ionization Cross-Section Calculations in Antiproton–Helium Collisions
Authors: Barna Imre Ferenc , Pocsai Mihály András , Tőkési Károly
Published: April 2023

We present ionization cross-sections for antiproton and helium collisions based on an ab initio time-dependent coupled channel method. In our calculations, a finite basis set of regular helium Coulomb wave packets and Slater function were used. The semiclassical approximation was applied with the time-dependent Coulomb potential to describe the antiproton–electron interaction. Three different projectile energies were considered as 10, 50 and 100 keV. We found clear evidence for the formation of the anti-cusp in the differential distributions.
Fixed-Point Theorems for Nonlinear Contraction in Fuzzy-Controlled Bipolar Metric Spaces
Authors: Mani Gunaseelan , Gnanaprakasam Arul Joseph , Kumar Santosh , Ege Ozgur , De la Sen Manuel
Published: April 2023

In this paper, we introduce the concept of fuzzy-controlled bipolar metric space and prove some fixed-point theorems in this space. Our results generalize and expand some of the literature’s well-known results. We also provide some applications of our main results to integral equations.
Blood Glucose Level Time Series Forecasting: Nested Deep Ensemble Learning Lag Fusion
Authors: Khadem Heydar , Nemat Hoda , Elliott Jackie , Benaissa Mohammed
Published: April 2023

Blood glucose level prediction is a critical aspect of diabetes management. It enables individuals to make informed decisions about their insulin dosing, diet, and physical activity. This, in turn, improves their quality of life and reduces the risk of chronic and acute complications. One conundrum in developing time-series forecasting models for blood glucose level prediction is to determine an appropriate length for look-back windows. On the one hand, studying short histories foists the risk of information incompletion. On the other hand, analysing long histories might induce information redundancy due to the data shift phenomenon. Additionally, optimal lag lengths are inconsistent across individuals because of the domain shift occurrence. Therefore, in bespoke analysis, either optimal lag values should be found for each individual separately or a globally suboptimal lag value should be used for all. The former approach degenerates the analysis’s congruency and imposes extra perplexity. With the latter, the fine-tunned lag is not necessarily the optimum option for all individuals. To cope with this challenge, this work suggests an interconnected lag fusion framework based on nested meta-learning analysis that improves the accuracy and precision of predictions for personalised blood glucose level forecasting. The proposed framework is leveraged to generate blood glucose prediction models for patients with type 1 diabetes by scrutinising two well-established publicly available Ohio type 1 diabetes datasets. The models developed undergo vigorous evaluation and statistical analysis from mathematical and clinical perspectives. The results achieved underpin the efficacy of the proposed method in blood glucose level time-series prediction analysis.
Multi-Objective Optimisation of a Novel Bypass Graft with a Spiral Ridge
Authors: Xenakis Antonios , Ruiz-Soler Andres , Keshmiri Amir
Published: April 2023

The low long-term patency of bypass grafts is a major concern for cardiovascular treatments. Unfavourable haemodynamic conditions in the proximity of distal anastomosis are closely related to thrombus creation and lumen lesions. Modern graft designs address this unfavourable haemodynamic environment with the introduction of a helical component in the flow field, either by means of out-of-plane helicity graft geometry or a spiral ridge. While the latter has been found to lack in performance when compared to the out-of-plane helicity designs, recent findings support the idea that the existing spiral ridge grafts can be further improved in performance through optimising relevant design parameters. In the current study, robust multi-objective optimisation techniques are implemented, covering a wide range of possible designs coupled with proven and well validated computational fluid dynamics (CFD) algorithms. It is shown that the final set of suggested design parameters could significantly improve haemodynamic performance and therefore could be used to enhance the design of spiral ridge bypass grafts.
Effect of Passive Ultrasonic Irrigation, Er,Cr:YSGG Laser, and Photon-Induced Photoacoustic Streaming against Enterococcus faecalis Biofilms in the Apical Third of Root Canals
Authors: Seghayer Ibrahim , Lee Angeline H. C. , Cheung Gary S. P. , Zhang Chengfei
Published: April 2023

Purpose: This study aimed to compare the antibacterial effectiveness of passive ultrasonic irrigation (PUI), Er,Cr:YSGG laser (WTL), and photon-induced photoacoustic streaming (PIPS) using an Er:YAG laser against Enterococcus faecalis biofilms in the apical third of root canals. Methods: Root canals of 70 single-rooted human teeth were instrumented and infected with E. faecalis for 3 weeks to form biofilms. The samples were randomly divided into five groups as follows: (i) PUI + 3% NaOCl (n = 16); (ii) Er,Cr:YSGG laser (n = 16); (iii) PIPS + 3% NaOCl (n = 16); (iv) positive control group (n = 10); and (v) negative control group (n = 10). The bacterial content in the root canal was sampled using (a) the paper-point sampling method before (S1) and after (S2) treatment and (b) pulverising the apical 5 mm of the root. The number of bacteria recovered from each group was counted as colony-forming units (CFUs). The amount of reduction between the groups was compared with the Kruskal–Wallis test and post-test Dunn’s multiple comparisons tests. The significance level was set at 5% (p < 0.05). Results: The samples from the paper-point sampling method showed that the amount of bacteria before (S1) and after treatment (S2) was significantly different between PIPS and WTL, as well as between the PUI and WTL groups. In contrast, no significant difference was found between the PIPS and PUI groups. From the pulverised samples, the results indicated no significant difference among all experimental groups in the amount of bacterial reduction in the apical 5 mm of the root. Conclusions: PUI and PIPS showed a significantly greater reduction in bacterial content within the main root canal compared with the WTL. There was no difference among all experimental groups in the apical third of the root.
Development and Characterization of Inducible Astrocyte-Specific Aromatase Knockout Mice
Authors: Wang Jing , Pratap Uday , Lu Yujiao , Sareddy Gangadhara , Tekmal Rajeshwar , Vadlamudi Ratna , Brann Darrell
Published: April 2023

17β-estradiol (E2) is produced in the brain as a neurosteroid, in addition to being an endocrine signal in the periphery. The current animal models for studying brain-derived E2 include global and conditional non-inducible knockout mouse models. The aim of this study was to develop a tamoxifen (TMX)-inducible astrocyte-specific aromatase knockout mouse line (GFAP-ARO-iKO mice) to specifically deplete the E2 synthesis enzymes and aromatase in astrocytes after their development in adult mice. The characterization of the GFAP-ARO-iKO mice revealed a specific and robust depletion in the aromatase expressions of their astrocytes and a significant decrease in their hippocampal E2 levels after a GCI. The GFAP-ARO-iKO animals were alive and fertile and had a normal general brain anatomy, with a normal astrocyte shape, intensity, and distribution. In the hippocampus, after a GCI, the GFAP-ARO-iKO animals showed a major deficiency in their reactive astrogliosis, a dramatically increased neuronal loss, and increased microglial activation. These findings indicate that astrocyte-derived E2 (ADE2) regulates the ischemic induction of reactive astrogliosis and microglial activation and is neuroprotective in the ischemic brain. The GFAP-ARO-iKO mouse models thus provide an important new model to help elucidate the roles and functions of ADE2 in the brain.
A Highly Diverse Olenekian Brachiopod Fauna from the Nanpanjiang Basin, South China, and Its Implications for the Early Triassic Biotic Recovery
Authors: Wu Huiting , Zhang Yang , Chen Anfeng , Stubbs Thomas L.
Published: April 2023

As one of the predominant benthic organisms in the Palaeozoic, brachiopod was largely eliminated in the Permian–Triassic boundary mass extinction, and then highly diversified in the Middle Triassic. Since fossil data from the Early Triassic are rarely reported, the recovery patterns of Early Triassic brachiopods remain unclear. This study documents a well-preserved fauna that is the most diverse Olenekian brachiopod fauna so far (age constrained by conodont biostratigraphy) from the Datuguan section of ramp facies in South China. This fauna is composed of 14 species within nine genera, including six genera (Hirsutella, Sulcatinella, Paradoxothyris, Dioristella, Neoretzia and Isocrania) found in the Early Triassic for the first time and three new species, including Paradoxothyris flatus sp. nov., Hirsutella sulcata sp. nov. and Sulcatinella elongata sp. nov. The Datuguan fauna indicates that the diversity of Olenekian brachiopod fauna has been underestimated, which can be caused by a combination of reduced habitats (in geographic size and sedimentary type) compared with the end-Permian, great bed thickness making it difficult to find fossils and most species in the fauna having low abundance. Based on the faunal change in the Datuguan section and environmental changes in South China, it can be inferred that brachiopod recovery in the studied section occurred in the latest Spathian rather than the Smithian when the environment started to ameliorate. Global brachiopod data also indicates that the initial recovery of brachiopods happened in the Spathian, and many genera that widely occurred in the Middle or Late Triassic had originated in the Olenekian.
Large-Scale Integration of Single-Cell RNA-Seq Data Reveals Astrocyte Diversity and Transcriptomic Modules across Six Central Nervous System Disorders
Authors: Qian Zhenwei , Qin Jinglin , Lai Yiwen , Zhang Chen , Zhang Xiannian
Published: April 2023

The dysfunction of astrocytes in response to environmental factors contributes to many neurological diseases by impacting neuroinflammation responses, glutamate and ion homeostasis, and cholesterol and sphingolipid metabolism, which calls for comprehensive and high-resolution analysis. However, single-cell transcriptome analyses of astrocytes have been hampered by the sparseness of human brain specimens. Here, we demonstrate how large-scale integration of multi-omics data, including single-cell and spatial transcriptomic and proteomic data, overcomes these limitations. We created a single-cell transcriptomic dataset of human brains by integration, consensus annotation, and analyzing 302 publicly available single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) datasets, highlighting the power to resolve previously unidentifiable astrocyte subpopulations. The resulting dataset includes nearly one million cells that span a wide variety of diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), Huntington’s disease (HD), multiple sclerosis (MS), epilepsy (Epi), and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). We profiled the astrocytes at three levels, subtype compositions, regulatory modules, and cell–cell communications, and comprehensively depicted the heterogeneity of pathological astrocytes. We constructed seven transcriptomic modules that are involved in the onset and progress of disease development, such as the M2 ECM and M4 stress modules. We validated that the M2 ECM module could furnish potential markers for AD early diagnosis at both the transcriptome and protein levels. In order to accomplish a high-resolution, local identification of astrocyte subtypes, we also carried out a spatial transcriptome analysis of mouse brains using the integrated dataset as a reference. We found that astrocyte subtypes are regionally heterogeneous. We identified dynamic cell–cell interactions in different disorders and found that astrocytes participate in key signaling pathways, such as NRG3-ERBB4, in epilepsy. Our work supports the utility of large-scale integration of single-cell transcriptomic data, which offers new insights into underlying multiple CNS disease mechanisms where astrocytes are involved.
Multiomics Analysis Reveals Novel Genetic Determinants for Lens Differentiation, Structure, and Transparency
Authors: Disatham Joshua , Brennan Lisa , Cvekl Ales , Kantorow Marc
Published: April 2023

Recent advances in next-generation sequencing and data analysis have provided new gateways for identification of novel genome-wide genetic determinants governing tissue development and disease. These advances have revolutionized our understanding of cellular differentiation, homeostasis, and specialized function in multiple tissues. Bioinformatic and functional analysis of these genetic determinants and the pathways they regulate have provided a novel basis for the design of functional experiments to answer a wide range of long-sought biological questions. A well-characterized model for the application of these emerging technologies is the development and differentiation of the ocular lens and how individual pathways regulate lens morphogenesis, gene expression, transparency, and refraction. Recent applications of next-generation sequencing analysis on well-characterized chicken and mouse lens differentiation models using a variety of omics techniques including RNA-seq, ATAC-seq, whole-genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS), chip-seq, and CUT&RUN have revealed a wide range of essential biological pathways and chromatin features governing lens structure and function. Multiomics integration of these data has established new gene functions and cellular processes essential for lens formation, homeostasis, and transparency including the identification of novel transcription control pathways, autophagy remodeling pathways, and signal transduction pathways, among others. This review summarizes recent omics technologies applied to the lens, methods for integrating multiomics data, and how these recent technologies have advanced our understanding ocular biology and function. The approach and analysis are relevant to identifying the features and functional requirements of more complex tissues and disease states.
Do Serum Galectin-9 Levels in Women with Gestational Diabetes and Healthy Ones Differ before or after Delivery? A Pilot Study
Authors: Pełech Aleksandra , Ruszała Monika , Niebrzydowska-Tatus Magdalena , Bień Katarzyna , Kimber-Trojnar Żaneta , Czuba Monika , Świstowska Małgorzata , Leszczyńska-Gorzelak Bożena
Published: April 2023

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a common metabolic disease that occurs during pregnancy, with the placenta playing an important role in its pathophysiology. Currently, the role of galectin-9 in the development of GDM is unknown. The aim of this study was to compare galectin-9 concentrations in healthy pregnant women and those with GDM. Galectin-9 levels were assessed in serum samples taken both just before and after delivery, as well as in urine samples collected in the postpartum period. Maternal body composition and hydration status were evaluated using the bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) method. There were no statistically significant differences in the concentration of galectin-9 in women with GDM compared to healthy pregnant women in their serum samples taken just before delivery, nor in their serum and urine samples collected in the early postpartum period. However, serum galectin-9 concentrations taken before delivery were positively correlated with BMI and parameters related to the amount of adipose tissue assessed in the early postpartum period. Additionally, there was a correlation between serum galectin-9 concentrations taken before and after delivery. Galectin-9 is unlikely to become a diagnostic marker for GDM. However, this subject requires further clinical research in larger groups.
Mutational Analysis of Anesthetic Binding Sites and Their Effects on GABAA Receptor Activation and Modulation by Positive Allosteric Modulators of the α7 Nicotinic Receptor
Authors: Pierce Spencer R. , Germann Allison L. , Xu Sophia Q. , Menon Saumith L. , Ortells Marcelo O. , Arias Hugo R. , Akk Gustav
Published: April 2023

The positive allosteric modulators (PAMs) of the α7 nicotinic receptor N-(5-Cl-2-hydroxyphenyl)-N′-[2-Cl-5-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-urea (NS-1738) and (E)-3-(furan-2-yl)-N-(p-tolyl)-acrylamide (PAM-2) potentiate the α1β2γ2L GABAA receptor through interactions with the classic anesthetic binding sites located at intersubunit interfaces in the transmembrane domain of the receptor. In the present study, we employed mutational analysis to investigate in detail the involvement and contributions made by the individual intersubunit interfaces to receptor modulation by NS-1738 and PAM-2. We show that mutations to each of the anesthetic-binding intersubunit interfaces (β+/α−, α+/β−, and γ+/β−), as well as the orphan α+/γ− interface, modify receptor potentiation by NS-1738 and PAM-2. Furthermore, mutations to any single interface can fully abolish potentiation by the α7-PAMs. The findings are discussed in the context of energetic additivity and interactions between the individual binding sites.
New Insights on Saporin Resistance to Chemical Derivatization with Heterobifunctional Reagents
Authors: Bortolotti Massimo , Biscotti Francesco , Zanello Andrea , Bolognesi Andrea , Polito Letizia
Published: April 2023

Saporin is a type 1 ribosome-inactivating protein widely used as toxic payload in the construction of targeted toxins, chimeric molecules formed by a toxic portion linked to a carrier moiety. Among the most used carriers, there are large molecules (mainly antibodies) and small molecules (such as neurotransmitters, growth factors and peptides). Some saporin-containing targeted toxins have been used for the experimental treatment of several diseases, giving very promising results. In this context, one of the reasons for the successful use of saporin lies in its resistance to proteolytic enzymes and to conjugation procedures. In this paper, we evaluated the influence of derivatization on saporin using three heterobifunctional reagents, namely 2-iminothiolane (2-IT), N-succinimidyl 3-(2-pyridyldithio)propionate (SPDP) and 4-succinimidyloxycarbonyl-α-methyl-α-[2-pyridyldithio]toluene (SMPT). In order to obtain the highest number of inserted -SH groups with the lowest reduction of saporin biological activities, we assessed the residual ability of saporin to inhibit protein synthesis, to depurinate DNA and to induce cytotoxicity after derivatization. Our results demonstrate that saporin maintains an excellent resistance to derivatization processes, especially with SPDP, and permit us to define reaction conditions, in which saporin biological properties may not be altered. Therefore, these findings provide useful information for the construction of saporin-based targeted toxins, especially with small carriers.
Effects of Atherogenic Factors on Endothelial Cells: Bioinformatics Analysis of Differentially Expressed Genes and Signaling Pathways
Authors: Kotlyarov Stanislav
Published: April 2023

(1) Background: Atherosclerosis is a serious medical condition associated with high morbidity and mortality rates. It develops over many years as a complex chain of events in the vascular wall involving various cells and is influenced by many factors of clinical interest. (2) Methods: In this study, we performed a bioinformatic analysis of Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) datasets to investigate the gene ontology of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in endothelial cells exposed to atherogenic factors such as tobacco smoking, oscillatory shear, and oxidized low-density lipoproteins (oxLDL). DEGs were identified using the limma R package, and gene ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment, and protein–protein interaction (PPI) network analysis were performed. (3) Results: We studied biological processes and signaling pathways involving DEGs in endothelial cells under the influence of atherogenic factors. GO enrichment analysis demonstrated that the DEGs were mainly involved in cytokine-mediated signaling pathway, innate immune response, lipid biosynthetic process, 5-lipoxygenase activity, and nitric-oxide synthase activity. KEGG pathway enrichment analysis showed that common pathways included tumor necrosis factor signaling pathway, NF-κB signaling pathway, NOD-like receptor signaling pathway, lipid and atherosclerosis, lipoprotein particle binding, and apoptosis. (4) Conclusions: Atherogenic factors such as smoking, impaired flow, and oxLDL contribute to impaired innate immune response, metabolism, and apoptosis in endothelial cells, potentially leading to the development of atherosclerosis.
Multi-Omics and Management of Follicular Carcinoma of the Thyroid
Authors: Luvhengo Thifhelimbilu Emmanuel , Bombil Ifongo , Mokhtari Arian , Moeng Maeyane Stephens , Demetriou Demetra , Sanders Claire , Dlamini Zodwa
Published: April 2023

Follicular thyroid carcinoma (FTC) is the second most common cancer of the thyroid gland, accounting for up to 20% of all primary malignant tumors in iodine-replete areas. The diagnostic work-up, staging, risk stratification, management, and follow-up strategies in patients who have FTC are modeled after those of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC), even though FTC is more aggressive. FTC has a greater propensity for haematogenous metastasis than PTC. Furthermore, FTC is a phenotypically and genotypically heterogeneous disease. The diagnosis and identification of markers of an aggressive FTC depend on the expertise and thoroughness of pathologists during histopathological analysis. An untreated or metastatic FTC is likely to de-differentiate and become poorly differentiated or undifferentiated and resistant to standard treatment. While thyroid lobectomy is adequate for the treatment of selected patients who have low-risk FTC, it is not advisable for patients whose tumor is larger than 4 cm in diameter or has extensive extra-thyroidal extension. Lobectomy is also not adequate for tumors that have aggressive mutations. Although the prognosis for over 80% of PTC and FTC is good, nearly 20% of the tumors behave aggressively. The introduction of radiomics, pathomics, genomics, transcriptomics, metabolomics, and liquid biopsy have led to improvements in the understanding of tumorigenesis, progression, treatment response, and prognostication of thyroid cancer. The article reviews the challenges that are encountered during the diagnostic work-up, staging, risk stratification, management, and follow-up of patients who have FTC. How the application of multi-omics can strengthen decision-making during the management of follicular carcinoma is also discussed.
Identification of a NACC1-Regulated Gene Signature Implicated in the Features of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Ngule Chrispus M. , Hemati Hami , Ren Xingcong , Obaleye Oluwafunminiyi , Akinyemi Amos O. , Oyelami Felix F. , Xiong Xiaofang , Song Jianxun , Liu Xia , Yang Jin-Ming
Published: April 2023

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), characterized by a deficiency in estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor2 (HER2), is among the most lethal subtypes of breast cancer (BC). Nevertheless, the molecular determinants that contribute to its malignant phenotypes such as tumor heterogeneity and therapy resistance, remain elusive. In this study, we sought to identify the stemness-associated genes involved in TNBC progression. Using bioinformatics approaches, we found 55 up- and 9 downregulated genes in TNBC. Out of the 55 upregulated genes, a 5 gene-signature (CDK1, EZH2, CCNB1, CCNA2, and AURKA) involved in cell regeneration was positively correlated with the status of tumor hypoxia and clustered with stemness-associated genes, as recognized by Parametric Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (PGSEA). Enhanced infiltration of immunosuppressive cells was also positively correlated with the expression of these five genes. Moreover, our experiments showed that depletion of the transcriptional co-factor nucleus accumbens-associated protein 1 (NAC1), which is highly expressed in TNBC, reduced the expression of these genes. Thus, the five genes signature identified by this study warrants further exploration as a potential new biomarker of TNBC heterogeneity/stemness characterized by high hypoxia, stemness enrichment, and immune-suppressive tumor microenvironment.
Isolated Progression of Multiple Myeloma into the Extramedullary Plasmacytoma of Dura Mater: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Tyczyńska Agata , Turski Mikołaj , Zarzycka Ewa , Zaucha Jan Maciej
Published: April 2023

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a disease caused by the uncontrolled proliferation of clonal plasma cells in bone marrow. Extramedullary plasma cell infiltrations may occur at the time of diagnosis but usually arise during systemic disease progression. Central nervous system (CNS) plasmacytomas are extremely rare (less than 1% of patients with MM) and usually occur as a result of systemic disease progression. The frequency of extramedullary progression to CNS without simultaneous systemic progression is not known. Here, we present a challenging case in which local disease progression to CNS occurred without any signs of systemic progression. The extramedullary plasmacytoma originated from the dura mater of the brain mimicking a brain tumor. We review and discuss further treatment options that are available in such rare clinical scenarios in relation to the treatment already undertaken.
Arabian Partridge Abundance and Limiting Factors at the Northern Boundary of Its Range
Authors: Soultan Alaaeldin , Shah Moayyed Sher , Almalki Ahmed Mohammed , Browne Stephen , Arcilla Nico
Published: April 2023

The Arabian Partridge (Alectoris melanocephala), is an endemic bird species of the Arabian Desert that lives in groups and inhabits rocky hillsides with patchy vegetation. Throughout their range, Arabian Partridges contend with hunting and habitat destruction, factors that may limit their distribution and abundance. Although the abundance of this species has been assumed to be stable, no actual estimate of its population size has been undertaken. We assessed the distribution and estimated the abundance of the Arabian Partridge at the northern boundary of its range in Saudi Arabia. The estimated density and abundance of the Arabian Partridge in Harrat Uwayrid Biosphere Reserve was 25.6 (6.16 SE) birds/km2 and ~118 individuals, respectively, with higher numbers of individuals in less disturbed sites and near rocky outcrops and hillsides. In sites where hunting occurred, as indicated by the presence of hunting shelters, partridge numbers were extremely low or absent. Our study provides the first quantitative assessment of the Arabian Partridge at the northern limit of its range and highlights the need to reduce threats from hunting, livestock grazing, and feral donkeys and to undertake conservation measures to mitigate factors associated with partridge decline.
Effectiveness of Computerized Cognitive Training by VIRTRAEL on Memory and Executive Function in Older People: A Pilot Study
Authors: Rute-Pérez Sandra , Rodríguez-Domínguez Carlos , Vélez-Coto María , Pérez-García Miguel , Caracuel Alfonso
Published: April 2023

The prevalence of people over 60 years of age with cognitive impairment has increased in recent decades. As a consequence, numerous computerized cognitive trainings (CCT) have been developed. This pilot study aimed to determine the effectiveness of the CCT with VIRTRAEL in improving older adults’ cognition. Fifty-five participants (x¯ = 72.7 years; SD = 6.5) underwent CCT, and twenty participants (x¯ = 76.1 years; SD = 7.6) received face-to-face cognitive stimulation with a paper-and-pencil methodology. Both trainings were conducted in nine sessions (45–60 min each). Participants completed a pre-post training neuropsychological assessment. ANCOVAs and the standardized clinical change were performed. VIRTRAEL’s group showed a significant and greater improvement in verbal learning (p < 0.006) and delayed recall (p ≤ 0.001), working memory (p < 0.005), abstract (p < 0.002) and semantic reasoning (p < 0.015), and planning (p < 0.021). Additionally, more large clinical changes (d > 0.8) were found in the VIRTRAEL condition (in verbal learning and delayed free and cued recall) than in the standard group. Here we show that the CCT with VIRTRAEL is effective in improving cognitive function in older adults and is superior to the standard format. These preliminary findings indicate that CCT is a useful tool potentially applicable in the fight against cognitive symptomatology associated with aging and neurodegenerative diseases. VIRTRAEL represents a breakthrough in this field as it is inexpensive and easily accessible to any older person, regardless of whether they live far from health care resources.
High Frequency Electromagnetic Radiation Stimulates Neuronal Growth and Hippocampal Synaptic Transmission
Authors: Ma Shaoqing , Li Zhiwei , Gong Shixiang , Lu Chengbiao , Li Xiaoli , Li Yingwei
Published: April 2023

Terahertz waves lie within the rotation and oscillation energy levels of biomolecules, and can directly couple with biomolecules to excite nonlinear resonance effects, thus causing conformational or configuration changes in biomolecules. Based on this mechanism, we investigated the effect pattern of 0.138 THz radiation on the dynamic growth of neurons and synaptic transmission efficiency, while explaining the phenomenon at a more microscopic level. We found that cumulative 0.138 THz radiation not only did not cause neuronal death, but that it promoted the dynamic growth of neuronal cytosol and protrusions. Additionally, there was a cumulative effect of terahertz radiation on the promotion of neuronal growth. Furthermore, in electrophysiological terms, 0.138 THz waves improved synaptic transmission efficiency in the hippocampal CA1 region, and this was a slow and continuous process. This is consistent with the morphological results. This phenomenon can continue for more than 10 min after terahertz radiation ends, and these phenomena were associated with an increase in dendritic spine density. In summary, our study shows that 0.138 THz waves can modulate dynamic neuronal growth and synaptic transmission. Therefore, 0.138 terahertz waves may become a novel neuromodulation technique for modulating neuron structure and function.
Mixed Depression in the Post-COVID-19 Syndrome: Correlation between Excitatory Symptoms in Depression and Physical Burden after COVID-19
Authors: Simonetti Alessio , Bernardi Evelina , Margoni Stella , Catinari Antonello , Restaino Antonio , Ieritano Valentina , Palazzetti Marta , Mastrantonio Federico , Janiri Delfina , Tosato Matteo , Landi Francesco , Sani Gabriele
Published: April 2023

The relationship between depression and post-COVID-19 disease syndrome (post-COVID-19 syndrome) is established. Nevertheless, few studies have investigated the association between post-COVID-19 syndrome and mixed depression, i.e., a specific sub-form of depression characterized by high level of excitatory symptoms. Aims of the present study are: (a) to compare the post-COVID-19 syndrome’s burden in depressed and non-depressed patients, and (b) to investigate the correlation between post-COVID-19 syndrome’s burden and the severity of mixed depression. One thousand and forty six (n = 1460) subjects with post-COVID-19 syndrome were assessed. Subjects were divided into those with (DEP) or without (CONT) depression. Sociodemographically, post-COVID-19 syndrome’s symptoms number and type were compared. In DEP, association between levels of excitatory symptoms and the presence of post-COVID-19 syndrome’s symptoms were additionally assessed. DEP showed greater percentages of family history of psychiatric disorders than CONT. DEP showed higher percentages of post-COVID-19 symptoms than CONT. A greater level of excitatory symptoms were associated to higher frequencies of post-COVID-19 syndrome’ symptoms. Higher levels of post-COVID-19 syndrome’s symptoms in DEP corroborate the evidence of a common pathway between these two syndromes. Presence of excitatory symptoms seem to additionally add a greater illness burden. Such findings might help clinicians choose the appropriate treatment for such states. More specifically, therapies aimed to treat excitatory symptoms, such as antipsychotics and mood stabilizers, might help reduce the illness burden in post-COVID-19 patients with mixed depression.
Research on High- and Low-Temperature Rheological Properties of High-Viscosity Modified Asphalt Binder
Authors: Huang Zhongcai , Ling Xianwu , Wang Di , Li Pengfei , Li Huaquan , Wang Xinyu , Wang Zujian , Wei Rong , Zhu Weining , Falchetto Augusto Cannone
Published: April 2023

This study evaluates the critical high- and low-temperature rheological properties of a high-viscosity modified asphalt (HVMA) binder by analyzing one neat and three high-viscosity modified binders (B-type, Y-type, and H-type) using temperature sweep tests and multi-stress creep recovery tests (MSCR) through the dynamic shear rheometer (DSR), and low-temperature creep stiffness properties by the bending beam rheometer (BBR). Technical indexes such as the softening point temperature, dynamic viscosity, rutting factor, unrecoverable creep compliance, and the creep recovery rate are measured and calculated for high-temperature properties, while the m/S value, dissipation energy ratio, relaxation time, elongation, creep stiffness, and creep speed are used as technical indexes for low-temperature properties. The results show that the incorporation of high-viscosity modifiers reduces the unrecoverable creep compliance and increases the creep recovery rate of the asphalt binder. Non-recoverable creep compliance is found to be a reliable indicator for high-temperature performance, while at low temperatures, the relaxation time decreases, the dissipation energy increases, and the stress relaxation ability improves. The dissipation energy ratio and m/S value are suggested to evaluate the low-temperature performance of HVMA binders using the Burgers model based on the BBR bending creep stiffness test. Therefore, this study recommends using the unrecoverable creep compliance via MSCR to evaluate high-temperature properties and dissipation energy ratio and m/S value for low-temperature properties in the evaluation of HVMA binders.
A Data Structure for Digital Building Logbooks: Achieving Energy Efficiency, Sustainability, and Smartness in Buildings across the EU
Authors: Malinovec Puček Marina , Khoja Ahmed , Bazzan Elena , Gyuris Peter
Published: April 2023

The European Commission has mandated the use of digital building logbooks (DBL) to encourage deep energy renovations and overcome barriers in building renovations. The current energy performance certificates (EPCs) focus on operational energy consumption, whereas the DBL will cover the entire life cycle of buildings and provide a more comprehensive evaluation of buildings, through providing a passport rating in three domains: energy performance, sustainability, and smartness. This paper defines the digital building logbook (DBL) data structure within the context of the EUB SuperHub, a three-year project financed by the European Union under the Horizon 2020 program. The creation of the EUB SuperHub DBL data structure involved an extensive review of relevant literature, including existing DBL data structures developed in previous EU projects (iBRoad, ALDREN, BIM4EEB, X-tendo), recommendations from the “Study on the Development of an EU Framework for Buildings’ Digital Logbook”, requirements specified in the grant agreement, existing EU legislation, and anticipated future legislation. The proposed digital building logbook data structure for the EUB SuperHub project comprises eight primary categories and is designed to provide all the essential input data needed throughout the building’s life cycle to compute the passport rating across three domains: energy efficiency, sustainability, and smartness. With the requirements stipulated in existing and soon-to-be-adopted EU legislation, the introduction of a digital building logbook has become a necessity. Though the undertaking is a formidable task and will require considerable effort, its benefits are numerous and promising, including the potential to enhance energy renovation rates.
Combination Treatment Targeting mTOR and MAPK Pathways Has Synergistic Activity in Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Sun Kaiyan , Jin Ling , Karolová Jana , Vorwerk Jan , Hailfinger Stephan , Opalka Bertram , Zapukhlyak Myroslav , Lenz Georg , Khandanpour Cyrus
Published: April 2023

Multiple myeloma (MM) is an incurable, malignant B cell disorder characterized by frequent relapses and a poor prognosis. Thus, new therapeutic approaches are warranted. The phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K) pathway plays a key role in many critical cellular processes, including cell proliferation and survival. Activated PI3K/AKT (protein kinases B)/mTOR (mammalian target of rapamycin) signaling has been identified in MM primary patient samples and cell lines. In this study, the efficacy of PI3K and mTOR inhibitors in various MM cell lines representing three different prognostic subtypes was tested. Whereas MM cell lines were rather resistant to PI3K inhibition, treatment with the mTOR inhibitor temsirolimus decreases the phosphorylation of key molecules in the PI3K pathway in MM cell lines, leading to G0/G1 cell cycle arrest and thus reduced proliferation. Strikingly, the efficacy of temsirolimus was amplified by combining the treatment with the Mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK) inhibitor trametinib. Our findings provide a scientific rationale for the simultaneous inhibition of mTOR and MEK as a novel strategy for the treatment of MM.
Non-Inflamed Tumor Microenvironment and Methylation/Downregulation of Antigen-Presenting Machineries in Cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Nishida Naoshi , Aoki Tomoko , Morita Masahiro , Chishina Hirokazu , Takita Masahiro , Ida Hiroshi , Hagiwara Satoru , Minami Yasunori , Ueshima Kazuomi , Kudo Masatoshi
Published: April 2023

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a refractory cancer; a majority of CCAs represents a non-inflamed tumor phenotype that should be resistant to treatment, including immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). In this study, we aimed to understand the molecular characteristics associated with non-inflamed CCAs. The genetic/epigenetic status of 36 CCAs was obtained from the Cancer Genome Atlas (PanCancerAtlas). CCAs were classified based on immune class using hierarchical clustering analysis of gene expressions related to tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes. The associations between immune class and genetic/epigenetic events were analyzed. We found that the tumors with alterations in FGFR2 and IDH1/2 had a “non-inflamed” tumor phenotype. A significant association was observed between the non-inflamed group and the downregulation of genes involved in antigen presentation (p = 0.0015). The expression of antigen-presenting machineries was inversely correlated with their DNA methylation levels, where 33.3% of tumors had an upregulation/low-methylation pattern, and 66.7% of tumors had a downregulation/high-methylation pattern. All tumors in the “inflamed” group exhibited an upregulation/low-methylation pattern. In contrast, 24 of 30 tumors in the non-inflamed group represent the downregulation/high-methylation pattern (p = 0.0005). Methylation with downregulation of antigen-presenting machineries is associated with the “non-inflamed” tumor phenotype of CCAs. This evidence provides important insights for developing new strategies for treating CCA.
Locoregional Therapy for Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Owen Mackenzie , Makary Mina S. , Beal Eliza W.
Published: April 2023

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) has a poor prognosis, and surgical resection (SR) offers the only potential for cure. Unfortunately, only a small proportion of patients are eligible for resection due to locally advanced or metastatic disease. Locoregional therapies (LRT) are often used in unresectable liver-only or liver-dominant ICC. This review explores the role of these therapies in the treatment of ICC, including radiofrequency ablation (RFA), microwave ablation (MWA), transarterial chemoembolization (TACE), transarterial radioembolization (TARE), external beam radiotherapy (EBRT), stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT), hepatic arterial infusion (HAI) of chemotherapy, irreversible electroporation (IE), and brachytherapy. A search of the current literature was performed to examine types of LRT currently used in the treatment of ICC. We examined patient selection, technique, and outcomes of each type. Overall, LRTs are well-tolerated in the treatment of ICC and are effective in improving overall survival (OS) in this patient population. Further studies are needed to reduce bias from heterogenous patient populations and small sample sizes, as well as to determine whether certain LRTs are superior to others and to examine optimal treatment selection.
Editorial Catalysts: Special Issue on “Advances in the Synthesis and Applications of Transition/Noble Metal Oxide Photocatalysts”
Authors: Kaneva Nina
Published: April 2023

Heterogeneous photocatalysis, due to its high efficiency, safety and profitability, has become an effective technology for solving environmental problems, for example, in wastewater treatment, for the removal of organic pollutants [...]