bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of Soluble CD163 (sCD163) in Human Physiology and Pathophysiology
Authors: Plevriti Andriana , Lamprou Margarita , Mourkogianni Eleni , Skoulas Nikolaos , Giannakopoulou Maria , Sajib Md Sanaullah , Wang Zhiyong , Mattheolabakis George , Chatzigeorgiou Antonios , Marazioti Antonia , Mikelis Constantinos M.
Published: October 2024

Soluble CD163 (sCD163) is a circulating inflammatory mediator, indicative of acute and chronic, systemic and non-systemic inflammatory conditions. It is the cleavage outcome, consisting of almost the entire extracellular domain, of the CD163, a receptor expressed in monocytic lineages. Its expression is proportional to the abundance of CD163+ macrophages. Various mechanisms trigger the shedding of the CD163 receptor or the accumulation of CD163-expressing macrophages, inducing the sCD163 concentration in the circulation and bodily fluids. The activities of sCD163 range from hemoglobin (Hb) scavenging, macrophage marker, decoy receptor for cytokines, participation in immune defense mechanisms, and paracrine effects in various tissues, including the endothelium. It is an established marker of macrophage activation and thus participates in many diseases, including chronic inflammatory conditions, such as atherosclerosis, asthma, and rheumatoid arthritis; acute inflammatory conditions, such as sepsis, hepatitis, and malaria; insulin resistance; diabetes; and tumors. The sCD163 levels have been correlated with the severity, stage of the disease, and clinical outcome for many of these conditions. This review article summarizes the expression and role of sCD163 and its precursor protein, CD163, outlines the sCD163 generation mechanisms, the biological activities, and the known underlying molecular mechanisms, with an emphasis on its impact on the endothelium and its contribution in the pathophysiology of human diseases.
Mini-Review: Tregs as a Tool for Therapy—Obvious and Non-Obvious Challenges and Solutions
Authors: Morgun Elena I. , Govorova Irina A. , Chernysheva Maria B. , Machinskaya Maria A. , Vorotelyak Ekaterina A.
Published: October 2024

Tregs have the potential to be utilized as a novel therapeutic agent for the treatment of various chronic diseases, including diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, asthma, and rheumatoid arthritis. One of the challenges associated with developing a therapeutic product based on Tregs is the non-selectivity of polyclonal cells. A potential solution to this issue is a generation of antigen-specific CAR-Tregs. Other challenges associated with developing a therapeutic product based on Tregs include the phenotypic instability of these cells in an inflammatory microenvironment, discrepancies between engineered Treg-like cells and natural Tregs, and the expression of dysfunctional isoforms of Treg marker genes. This review presents a summary of proposed strategies for addressing these challenges.
Laser Control of Specular and Diffuse Reflectance of Thin Aluminum Film-Isolator-Metal Structures for Anti-Counterfeiting and Plasmonic Color Applications
Authors: Nowak Michał P. , Stępak Bogusz , Pielach Mateusz , Stepanenko Yuriy , Wojciechowski Tomasz , Bartosewicz Bartosz , Chodorow Urszula , Jakubaszek Marcin , Wachulak Przemysław , Nyga Piotr
Published: October 2024

Plasmonic structural color originates from the scattering and absorption of visible light by metallic nanostructures. Stacks consisting of thin, disordered semicontinuous metal films are attractive plasmonic color media, as they can be mass-produced using industry-proven physical vapor deposition techniques. These films are comprised of random nano-island structures of various sizes and shapes resonating at different wavelengths. When irradiated with short-pulse lasers, the nanostructures are locally restructured, and their optical response is altered in a spectrally selective manner. Therefore, various colors are obtained. We demonstrate the generation of structural plasmonic colors through femtosecond laser modification of a thin aluminum film–isolator–metal mirror (TAFIM) structure. Laser-induced structuring of TAFIM’s top aluminum film significantly alters the sample’s specular and diffuse reflectance depending on the fluence value and the number of times a region is scanned. A “negative image” effect is possible, where a dark field observation mode image is a negative of a bright field mode image. This effect is visible using an optical microscope, the naked eye, and a digital camera. The use of self-passivating aluminum results in a long-lasting, non-fading coloration effect. The reported technique could be used in anti-counterfeiting and security applications, as well as in plasmonic color printing and macroscopic and microscopic marking for personalized fine arts and aesthetic products such as jewelry.
A Phenomenological Approach to Financial Toxicity: The-Economic-Side Effect of Cancer
Authors: Panattoni Nicolò , Di Simone Emanuele , Renzi Erika , Di Carlo Flavia , Fabbian Fabio , Di Muzio Marco , Rosso Annalisa , Petrone Fabrizio , Massimi Azzurra
Published: October 2024

The economic burden of chronic diseases such as cancer could negatively impact patients’ health and quality of life. The daily management of the disease results in economic needs that patients often face directly, which may lead to real toxicity, just defined as financial toxicity. This study aims to explore cancer patients’ experiences, emotions, opinions, and feelings related to the phenomenon of financial toxicity. A phenomenological qualitative descriptive study was conducted through face-to-face interviews with adult oncological patients. The sample (n = 20) was predominantly composed of females (with a meanly 58 years old) with breast cancer and in chemotherapy treatment. The most relevant topics that emerged from the patients’ experiences were the impact on work, the distance from the treatment centre, the economic efforts, the impact on the quality of life, and the healthcare workers’ support during the healthcare pathway. From the phenomenological analysis of the interviews, three main themes and seven related subthemes emerged. This study provided a phenomenological interpretation of financial toxicity in adult cancer patients and underlines that this issue involves families or caregivers, too. Financial problems appear relevant for those who experience cancer and should be included in a routine assessment by healthcare professionals.
Incremental Growth through Professional Learning Communities of Math Teachers Engaged in Action Research Projects
Authors: Bondurant Liza
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the experiences of a professional learning community (PLC) composed of six secondary math teachers enrolled in a graduate math methods course. Through the discussion of educational texts and collaborative inquiry, the teachers identified classroom challenges they aimed to address through individual action research projects. The PLC provided a supportive environment for teachers to share their processes, receive peer feedback, and collectively reflect. This study underscores the value of action research and PLCs in driving educational improvement. By engaging in structured inquiry within a collaborative setting, teachers gained insights into pedagogical issues, developed targeted incremental interventions, and contributed to the broader discourse on math education pedagogy. The collaborative PLC model facilitated reflective practice, challenged assumptions, and empowered teachers as agents of change. Implications for teacher professional development, instructional practices, and future research directions are discussed.
It Helps with Crap Lecturers and Their Low Effort: Investigating Computer Science Students’ Perceptions of Using ChatGPT for Learning
Authors: Bikanga Ada Mireilla
Published: October 2024

This study explores how computing science students (n = 335) use ChatGPT, their trust in its information, their navigation of plagiarism issues, and their confidence in addressing plagiarism and academic integrity. A mixed-methods approach was used, combining quantitative survey data with a qualitative thematic analysis of student comments to provide a comprehensive understanding of these issues. The findings reveal that ChatGPT has become integral to students’ academic routines, with 87.8% using it weekly with variable frequency. Most students (70.3%) believe the university should allow ChatGPT use, and 66.6% think it is fair to use it for academic purposes despite 57.4% distrusting its information. Additionally, 53.8% worry about accidentally plagiarising when using ChatGPT. Overall, students have moderate confidence in addressing these academic integrity issues, with no differences between undergraduate and postgraduate students. Male students reported higher confidence in handling plagiarism and academic integrity issues than female students, suggesting underlying differences in how students perceive and interact with generative AI technologies. A thematic analysis of 74 student comments on their ChatGPT experience revealed four themes: (a) Usage and Role of ChatGPT, (b) Ethical and Responsible Use, (c) Limitations and Accuracy, and (d) Impact on Education and Need for Clear Guidelines. This study contributes to the ongoing debate on accepting and using ChatGPT, highlighting the need for institutions to provide clear guidelines and ethical considerations to ensure responsible use within educational contexts.
Data-Driven State of Health Interval Prediction for Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Song Ziyao , Zhang Han , Jia Jianfang
Published: October 2024

The accurate prediction of the state of health (SOH) for lithium-ion batteries is a key factor for improving the performance of battery management systems (BMS). However, traditional point prediction methods are difficult to effectively eliminate errors due to the uncertainty of variables and application environments. This paper presents a model for predicting the interval of lithium-ion batteries based on health indicators (HIs) during charging, which addresses the limitations of current point prediction in practical applications. First, twelve HIs are extracted from the current and voltage variables of the charging process. Secondly, feature selection is performed by random forest (RF) training, and the selected HIs are dimensioned using partial least squares (PLS). Finally, a long short-term memory network (LSTM) combined with quantile regression (QR) is used to derive the quantile values of the prediction points and each quantile is employed as input information for Gaussian kernel density estimation (KDE) to obtain the SOH probability density distribution. The experimental results based on the NASA PCOE Li-ion battery dataset and CALCE Li-ion battery dataset show that the SOH interval coverage is more than 90% and the average width of the interval is less than 0.294.
Long-Term Forecasting Models of Oil Demand Emerging from the Global Petrochemical Sector
Authors: Al Mestneer Raed , Bollino Carlo Andrea
Published: October 2024

In the global energy mix by 2040, the growth in demand for oil and gas will be predominantly driven by the petrochemical sector across all regions of the world. The strong performance of this industry is anticipated to necessitate additional volumes of key feedstocks. Therefore, understanding the demand dynamics within the petrochemical sector is crucial for policy makers and industry stakeholders to make informed decisions regarding economic diversification, economic planning, and environmental sustainability. However, there is a notable lack of existing literature that explicitly addresses comprehensive regional and product-level demand modeling for petrochemical feedstocks. In this context, this study aims to estimate the demand for four main petrochemical feedstocks (Naphtha, Ethane, Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), and other petrochemical feedstocks) across eight regions of the world. By estimating a total of 30 equations for price and income elasticities of demand in both the short and long term, the study provides detailed insights into the factors driving demand across different regions. The results demonstrate the robustness of the model, with good econometric properties and significant coefficients. In-sample regional simulations revealed small percentage errors across all regional equations, highlighting the model’s accuracy in tracking historical data. For each of the four feedstocks, an aggregate world equation—in other words, one single econometric world equation for each of the four petrochemical feedstocks’ categories mentioned earlier—was also estimated and compared against the aggregation of the regional simulations, with the latter found to track the history of global petrochemical feedstock demand better in-sample than a single econometric world equation. Overall, the study offers valuable contributions to the existing literature by filling a gap in comprehensive demand modeling for petrochemical feedstocks. It underscores the importance of regional and product-level analyses in understanding global demand patterns and informing strategic decisions in the industry.
Resource Adequacy and Integration of Renewables in Light of US, EU, and Pakistan’s Evolving Power Sector
Authors: Hussain Muhammad Sadam , Cho Kangwook , Park Soo-jin
Published: October 2024

This study investigates resource adequacy and renewable energy integration in the United States, European Union, and Pakistan amid global energy market liberalization and greenhouse gas reduction efforts. It explores how these regions are adapting to the surge in renewable sources like wind and solar, which, despite their financial and environmental benefits, challenge resource adequacy and the economic viability of traditional energy sources. In the US and EU, significant improvements have been introduced in wholesale electricity markets and capacity accreditation mechanisms, which enhanced the large-scale deployment of renewables. This shift has prompted a reevaluation of resource adequacy, leading to the increased deployment of battery storage and demand response. Presently, gas-based generation is largely upholding resource adequacy; however, future trends indicate a move towards greater consumer participation, energy efficiency, and utility-scale storage, with a decline in fossil fuel use. Pakistan aims to adopt a liberalized market structure by balancing competitive markets with legacy contracts. Public pressure is driving a shift from costly fossil-based generation to renewables. Similarly, a trend in the rise of behind-the-meter solar generation can be witnessed. In the future, Pakistan may also experience resource adequacy challenges. It will likely need to implement battery storage, demand response, and modern capacity accreditation tools, by drawing lessons from developed markets.
Addressing VAWT Aerodynamic Challenges as the Key to Unlocking Their Potential in the Wind Energy Sector
Authors: Abdolahifar Abolfazl , Zanj Amir
Published: October 2024

While the wind turbine industry has been primarily dominated by horizontal-axis wind turbines, the forefront of knowledge of these turbines has revealed significant challenges in various aspects, including manufacturing, structural design, cost, and maintenance. On the other hand, the advantages associated with Darrieus vertical-axis wind turbines (VAWTs) demonstrate significant potential that can address the existing challenges of the wind turbine industry. Current work aims to investigate the practicality of this potential for the wind energy sector. To this end, the benefits of employing Darrieus turbines for domestic and industrial applications, isolated operation, and on/offshore windfarm applications have been explored. It is apparent that Darrieus VAWTs are better suited to a wide range of environments, whether they are deployed in isolation or integrated systems, and whether they are utilized on a small or large scale. Darrieus VAWTs are adaptable to urban unsteady variable wind, are less expensive on large scales, provide higher power density at the windfarm level, and provide stability for offshore platforms. Nevertheless, challenges remain in fully harnessing VAWT potential rooted in their complex aerodynamics. This serves as a primary challenge for VAWTs to address the challenges of the wind turbine industry in line with the 2050 roadmap.
Improvement of Heat Transfer Correlation for Fluoroplastic Steel Heat Exchanger and Theoretical Analysis of Application Characteristics
Authors: Li Kai , Meng Zhihao , Feng Hong , Wang Yihong , Wang Qi , Gao Xiang
Published: October 2024

Due to its good corrosion resistance and high rigidity, fluoroplastic steel heat exchangers have become one of the main feasible solutions to the problem of flue gas waste heat recovery. Therefore, a heat transfer performance test of a fluoroplastic steel heat exchanger was carried out, and a new heat transfer correlation (Nu = 0.11Re0.72Pr0.36, 1900 < Re < 4100, Pr ≈ 0.8) of a fluid transverse tube bank suitable for smooth fluoroplastic surfaces was proposed. Comparing the results of the proposed correlation and the Zhukauskas correlation, the calculation discrepancy was decreased when using the proposed correlation, and the average discrepancy dropped from 16.8% to 3.3%. As the thickness of the fluoroplastic film was reduced, the gap between the two correlations widened. Thus, the Zhukauskas correlation was not applicable to fluoroplastic steel heat exchangers with a thin fluoroplastic film. However, the deviation between the two correlations decreased as the condensing heat transfer area increased. For the fluoroplastic steel heat exchanger with a large condensation heat transfer area, the Zhukauskas correlation could still be utilized. It was interesting to observe that the deviation between the two correlations was reduced when only flue gas condensation was present, but it showed an increasing trend with the increase in condensation intensity.
Enhancement Method Based on Multi-Strategy Improved Pelican Optimization Algorithm and Application to Low-Illumination Forest Canopy Images
Authors: Zhao Xiaohan , Zhu Liangkuan , Wang Jingyu , Mohamed Alaa M. E.
Published: October 2024

Enhancement is a crucial step in the field of image processing, as it significantly improves image analysis and understanding. One of the most commonly used methods for image contrast enhancement is the incomplete beta function (IBF). However, the key challenge lies in determining the optimal parameters for the IBF. This paper introduces a multi-strategy improved pelican optimization algorithm (MIPOA) to address the low-illumination color image enhancement problem. The MIPOA algorithm utilizes a nonlinear decreasing coefficient to boost the exploration ability and convergence speed, whereas the Hardy–Weinberg principle compensates for the unsound exploitation mechanism. Additionally, the diversity variation operation improves the ability of the algorithm to escape local optimal solutions. The performance of the proposed MIPOA algorithm was evaluated using a benchmark function and was found to outperform five variant algorithms in extensive comparisons. To further harness the potential of the MIPOA algorithm, the authors propose a low-light forest canopy image enhancement method based on the MIPOA algorithm. The MIPOA algorithm searches for the optimal parameters of the IBF, leading to fast contrast enhancement of the image. The segmented gamma correction function is designed to enhance the brightness of the low-light forest canopy images. In determining the optimal parameters of IBF, the MIPOA algorithm demonstrates superior performance compared to other intelligent algorithms in the feature similarity index (FSIM), entropy, and contrast improvement index (CII) of 75%, 58.33%, and 75%, respectively. The proposed MIPOA-based enhancement method achieves a moderate pixel mean and surpasses the conventional enhancement method with an average gradient of 91.67%. The experimental results indicate that the MIPOA effectively addresses the limitations of low optimization accuracy in IBF parameters, and the enhancement method based on the MIPOA provides a more efficacious approach for enhancing low-light forest canopy images.
Estimating and Modeling Pinus contorta Transpiration in a Montane Meadow Using Sap-Flow Measurements
Authors: Marks Simon , Surfleet Christopher , Malama Bwalya
Published: October 2024

This study quantifies the transpiration of encroached lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta var. murryana (Grev. & Balf.) Engelm.) in a montane meadow using pre-restoration sap-flow measurements. Lodgepole pine transpiration and its response to environmental variables were examined in Rock Creek Meadow (RCM), Southern Cascade Range, CA, USA. Sap-flow data from lodgepole pines were scaled to the meadow using tree survey data and then validated with MODIS evapotranspiration estimates for the 2019 and 2020 growing seasons. A modified Jarvis–Stewart model calibrated to 2020 sap-flow data analyzed lodgepole pine transpiration’s correlation with solar radiation, air temperature, vapor pressure deficit, and soil volumetric water content. Model validation utilized 2021 growing season sap-flow data. Calibration and validation employed a Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) approach through the DREAM(ZS) algorithm with a generalized likelihood (GL) function, enabling parameter and total uncertainty assessment. The model’s scaling was compared with simple scaling estimates. Average lodgepole pine transpiration at RCM ranged between 220.6 ± 25.3 and 393.4 ± 45.7 mm for the campaign (mid-July 2019 to mid-August 2020) and 100.2 ± 11.5 to 178.8 ± 20.7 mm for the 2020 partial growing season (April to mid-August), akin to MODIS ET. The model aligned well with observed normalized sap-velocity during the 2020 growing season (RMSE = 0.087). However, sap-velocity, on average, was underpredicted by the model (PBIAS = −6.579%). Model validation mirrored calibration in performance metrics (RMSE = 0.1233; PBIAS = −2.873%). The 95% total predictive uncertainty confidence intervals generated by GL-DREAM(ZS) enveloped close to the theoretically expected 95% of total observations for the calibration (94.5%) and validation (81.8%) periods. The performance of the GL-DREAM(ZS) approach and uncertainty assessment in this study shows promise for future MJS model applications, and the model-derived 2020 transpiration estimates highlight the MJS model utility for scaling sap-flow measurements from individual trees to stands of trees.
Opportunities for the Early Diagnosis and Selection of Scots Pine with Potential Resistance to Root and Butt Rot Disease
Authors: Dyshko Valentyna , Ustskiy Ivan , Borowik Piotr , Oszako Tomasz
Published: October 2024

Pine stands affected by root and butt rot (Heterobasidion annosum s.l.) contain pines (Pinus sylvestris L.) that can survive for a long time without showing external symptoms of the disease (‘conditionally resistant’ refers to trees that survive without symptoms despite infection). The establishment of stands from the seeds of such trees can significantly increase the effectiveness of artificial afforestation. Since the growth and development of pine trees is determined to a certain extent by the number of cotyledons after seed germination, this article examines this trait in the progeny of trees that are potentially resistant and those that have already been attacked by root pathogens. The number of cotyledons and the resilience of trees is fascinating and not generally known. Presumably, the number of cotyledons can be linked to disease resistance based on increased vigour. Biologically, a larger area for carbon assimilation leads to better photosynthetic efficiency and the production of more assimilates (sugars) necessary to trigger defence processes in the event of infection. From an ecological point of view, this can give tree populations in areas potentially threatened by root system diseases a chance of survival. The aim of this study was to analyze the potential of using the number of cotyledons and other seedling characteristics to predict the resistance of trees to root and butt rot disease. The collected data show that the seedlings from the group of diseased trees exhibited lower growth rates and vigour. However, the seedlings from the group of potentially resistant trees are similar to the control, meaning the trees that show no disease symptoms because they have not come into contact with the pathogen. Our observations suggest that monitoring germinating cotyledons could serve as an early diagnostic tool to identify disease-resistant pines, although further research is needed.
Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Analysis of SNAP Gene Family in Wheat
Authors: Zhang Xiaohan , Yu Yanan , Sun Yumeng , Bai Yan , Shu Yongjun , Guo Changhong
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: The SNAP gene family is a class of proteins containing a SNAP domain, which plays a crucial role in the growth and development of plants. Methods: Bioinformatics methods were used to systematically analyze the gene structure, phylogenetic evolution, chromosomal distribution, physicochemical properties, conserved motifs, and cis-acting elements of the TaSNAP family members. Results: The TaSNAP family comprises members that encode proteins ranging between 120 and 276 amino acids, with isoelectric points spanning from 4.87 to 7.92. Phylogenetic analysis elucidated the categorization of the eight TaSNAP into three distinct subfamilies, wherein members of the same subfamily display marked similarities in their gene structures. Chromosomal mapping revealed the distribution of TaSNAP family members across chromosomes 2A, 2B, 2D, 7A, 7B, and 7D. Utilizing the Plant CARE tool, we identified ten elements linked to plant hormones and four associated with stress responses. Expression analysis via qRT-PCR was performed to assess the levels of the eight TaSNAP genes in various tissues and under diverse abiotic stress conditions. The results indicated heightened expression of most genes in roots compared to spikes. Notably, under ABA stress, the majority of genes exhibited upregulation, whereas certain genes were downregulated under PEG stress, implying a substantial role for SNAP protein in wheat growth and development. Conclusions: This study conducted a comprehensive bioinformatics analysis of each member of the wheat SNAP family, laying a crucial foundation for future functional investigations.
Cultural Practices of Mothers and Babies during the Postnatal Period: A Qualitative Study in Rural Bangladesh
Authors: Jahan Nusrat , Islam Md Shahidul
Published: October 2024

This study describes the experiences of women in rural Bangladesh, and the cultural practices related to how they take care of themselves and their babies, in the early postnatal period. Data were gathered through immersion in the field for six months, participant observation, document collection and in-depth interview techniques to gain a deep understanding of women’s everyday lives and practices during the postnatal period. In-depth interviews were undertaken with 28 mothers who had had at least one live child within the five years before the date of data collection, in Purba Sharifabad village of the Barisal Division in Bangladesh. The key findings of this study highlight the role of culture in the experiences of women during the postnatal period, and reveal that cultural practices, beliefs and traditions are deeply embedded in the lives of rural women. This study focuses on cultural practices which have an effect on the choices of women regarding care and support from healthcare facilities. Culture, together with poverty and low levels of education, leads them to resist healthcare from a skilled birth attendant and encourages them to believe in and trust traditional care practices during the postnatal period. Therefore, the findings of this study may contribute to future policies, planning, programs and research in Bangladesh by providing an understanding of the importance of culturally and socially rooted traditional beliefs and cultural practices. These need to be addressed for maternal and newborn healthcare initiatives to be effective, particularly in rural Bangladesh.
The Influence of Circadian Rhythms on DNA Damage Repair in Skin Photoaging
Authors: Su Zhi , Hu Qianhua , Li Xiang , Wang Zirun , Xie Ying
Published: October 2024

Circadian rhythms, the internal timekeeping systems governing physiological processes, significantly influence skin health, particularly in response to ultraviolet radiation (UVR). Disruptions in circadian rhythms can exacerbate UVR-induced skin damage and increase the risk of skin aging and cancer. This review explores how circadian rhythms affect various aspects of skin physiology and pathology, with a special focus on DNA repair. Circadian regulation ensures optimal DNA repair following UVR-induced damage, reducing mutation accumulation, and enhancing genomic stability. The circadian control over cell proliferation and apoptosis further contributes to skin regeneration and response to UVR. Oxidative stress management is another critical area where circadian rhythms exert influence. Key circadian genes like brain and muscle ARNT-like 1 (BMAL1) and circadian locomotor output cycles kaput (CLOCK) modulate the activity of antioxidant enzymes and signaling pathways to protect cells from oxidative stress. Circadian rhythms also affect inflammatory and immune responses by modulating the inflammatory response and the activity of Langerhans cells and other immune cells in the skin. In summary, circadian rhythms form a complex defense network that manages UVR-induced damage through the precise regulation of DNA damage repair, cell proliferation, apoptosis, inflammatory response, oxidative stress, and hormonal signaling. Understanding these mechanisms provides insights into developing targeted skin protection and improving skin cancer prevention.
Immunoaging at Early Ages Could Drive a Higher Comorbidity Burden in People with HIV on Antiretroviral Therapy Compared with the Uninfected Population
Authors: Loste Cora , Trigueros Macedonia , Muñoz-López Francisco , Urrea Víctor , Martínez Ana , González Sandra , Puig Jordi , Martín Marta , Bonjoch Anna , Echeverría Patricia , Massanella Marta , Negredo Eugenia
Published: October 2024

This is an observational, cross-sectional, comparative case–control, pilot study aimed at assessing the impact of HIV infection and age on immunological markers in people with HIV (PWH) on antiretroviral therapy (ART). The study included 40 PWH on ART, divided into two age groups (40–45 years vs. ≥60 years), and 30 HIV-uninfected controls matched by sex and age. The results show that older PWH on ART had more comorbidities and a higher frequency of CD8 T cells compared to older controls, with a significant decrease in CD8 naïve T cells with age. Additionally, younger PWH on ART exhibited higher frequencies of activated CD8 T cells and elevated levels of inflammatory markers (sCD14, IL-6) compared to age-matched controls, with values similar to those of older PWH on ART. These findings suggest that younger PWH on ART may experience accelerated immunoaging, highlighting the need for early interventions in this population.
The Maize Gene ZmGLYI-8 Confers Salt and Drought Tolerance in Transgenic Arabidopsis Plants
Authors: Yu Ting , Dong Wei , Hou Xinwei , Sun Aiqing , Li Xinzheng , Yu Shaowei , Zhang Jiedao
Published: October 2024

Methylglyoxal (MG), a highly reactive and cytotoxic α-oxoaldehyde compound, can over-accumulate under abiotic stress, consequently injuring plants or even causing death. Glyoxalase I (GLYI), the first enzyme of the glyoxalase pathway, plays multiple roles in the detoxification of MG and in abiotic stress responses. However, the GLY1 gene in maize has been little studied in response to abiotic stress. In this study, we screened a glyoxalase I gene (ZmGLYI-8) and overexpressed in Arabidopsis. This gene was localized in the cytoplasm and can be induced in maize seedlings under multiple stress treatments, including salt, drought, MG, ABA, H2O2 and high temperature stress. Phenotypic analysis revealed that after MG, salt and drought stress treatments, overexpression of ZmGLYI-8 increased the tolerance of transgenic Arabidopsis to MG, salt and drought stress. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the overexpression of ZmGLYI-8 scavenges accumulated reactive oxygen species, detoxifies MG and enhances the activity of antioxidant enzymes to improve the resistance of transgenic Arabidopsis plants to salt and drought stress. In summary, this study preliminarily elucidates the molecular mechanism of the maize ZmGLYI-8 gene in transgenic Arabidopsis and provides new insight into the breeding of salt- and drought-tolerant maize varieties.
Understanding of Plant Salt Tolerance Mechanisms and Application to Molecular Breeding
Authors: Zhou Yuxia , Feng Chen , Wang Yuning , Yun Chunxia , Zou Xinqing , Cheng Nuo , Zhang Wenping , Jing Yan , Li Haiyan
Published: October 2024

Soil salinization is a widespread hindrance that endangers agricultural production and ecological security. High salt concentrations in saline soils are primarily caused by osmotic stress, ionic toxicity and oxidative stress, which have a negative impact on plant growth and development. In order to withstand salt stress, plants have developed a series of complicated physiological and molecular mechanisms, encompassing adaptive changes in the structure and function of various plant organs, as well as the intricate signal transduction networks enabling plants to survive in high-salinity environments. This review summarizes the recent advances in salt perception under different tissues, physiological responses and signaling regulations of plant tolerance to salt stress. We also examine the current knowledge of strategies for breeding salt-tolerant plants, including the applications of omics technologies and transgenic approaches, aiming to provide the basis for the cultivation of salt-tolerant crops through molecular breeding. Finally, future research on the application of wild germplasm resources and muti-omics technologies to discover new tolerant genes as well as investigation of crosstalk among plant hormone signaling pathways to uncover plant salt tolerance mechanisms are also discussed in this review.
Crispr-SGRU: Prediction of CRISPR/Cas9 Off-Target Activities with Mismatches and Indels Using Stacked BiGRU
Authors: Zhang Guishan , Luo Ye , Xie Huanzeng , Dai Zhiming
Published: October 2024

CRISPR/Cas9 is a popular genome editing technology, yet its clinical application is hindered by off-target effects. Many deep learning-based methods are available for off-target prediction. However, few can predict off-target activities with insertions or deletions (indels) between single guide RNA and DNA sequence pairs. Additionally, the analysis of off-target data is challenged due to a data imbalance issue. Moreover, the prediction accuracy and interpretability remain to be improved. Here, we introduce a deep learning-based framework, named Crispr-SGRU, to predict off-target activities with mismatches and indels. This model is based on Inception and stacked BiGRU. It adopts a dice loss function to solve the inherent imbalance issue. Experimental results show our model outperforms existing methods for off-target prediction in terms of accuracy and robustness. Finally, we study the interpretability of this model through Deep SHAP and teacher–student-based knowledge distillation, and find it can provide meaningful explanations for sequence patterns regarding off-target activity.
Developing Advanced Chimeric Cell Therapy for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Authors: Budzynska Katarzyna , Bozyk Katarzyna T. , Jarosinska Klaudia , Ziemiecka Anna , Siemionow Krzysztof , Siemionow Maria
Published: October 2024

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is a lethal, X-linked disorder leading to muscle degeneration and premature death due to cardiopulmonary complications. Currently, there is no cure for DMD. We previously confirmed the efficacy of human Dystrophin-Expressing Chimeric (DEC) cells created via the fusion of myoblasts from normal and DMD-affected donors. The current study aimed to optimize the development of DEC therapy via the polyethylene glycol (PEG)-mediated fusion protocol of human myoblasts derived from normal, unrelated donors. The optimization of cell fusion assessed different factors influencing fusion efficacy, including myoblast passage number, the efficacy of PKH myoblast staining, the ratio of the single-stained myoblasts in the MIX, and PEG administration time. Additionally, the effect of PEG fusion procedure on cell viability was assessed. A correlation was found between the number of cells used for PKH staining and staining efficacy. Furthermore, the ratio of single-stained myoblasts in the MIX and PEG administration time correlated with fusion efficacy. There was no correlation found between the myoblast passage number and fusion efficacy. This study successfully optimized the myoblast fusion protocol for creation of human DEC cells, introducing DEC as a new Advanced Therapy Medicinal Product (ATMP) for DMD patients.
Machine Learning Approaches in Multi-Cancer Early Detection
Authors: Hajjar Maryam , Albaradei Somayah , Aldabbagh Ghadah
Published: October 2024

Cancer is a prominent global cause of mortality, primarily due to delayed detection leading to limited treatment options. Current screening methods are mostly invasive and involve complex lengthy processes with high costs. Moreover, each screening typically focuses on a single type of cancer. This imposes a growing need for innovative, precise, and minimally invasive methods for early cancer detection. With the current advances in assay technologies and data science, multi-cancer early detection (MCED) tests are gaining increased interest in the research community as they offer potential for earlier diagnosis and improved patient outcomes. Different approaches are followed for MCED, and multiple machine learning methods are considered. In this paper, we systematically explore various MCED studies and their applied machine learning (ML) models for different types of biomarker data. We discuss the strengths and limitations of different study designs and compare their performance. Future directions are proposed, emphasizing the importance of integrating multi-omics data, enhancing model transparency, and fostering collaborative efforts to develop robust, cost effective and clinically applicable MCED tools.
Comparative Transcriptome Analysis of Cold Tolerance Mechanism in Honeybees (Apis mellifera sinisxinyuan)
Authors: Shan Jinqiong , Cheng Ruiyi , Magaoya Tuohudasheng , Duan Yujie , Chen Chao
Published: October 2024

Honeybees are important pollinators worldwide that are closely related to agricultural production and ecological balance. The biological activities and geographical distribution of honeybees are strongly influenced by temperature. However, there is not much research on the cold tolerance of honeybees. The Apis mellifera sinisxinyuan, a kind of western honeybee, exhibits strong cold hardiness. Here, we determined that short-term temperature treatment could regulate the honeybee’s cold tolerance ability by measuring the supercooling point of A. m. sinisxinyuan treated with different temperatures. Transcriptome data were analyzed between the treated and untreated honeybees. A total of 189 differentially expressed genes were identified. Among them, Abra, Pla1, rGC, Hr38, and Maf were differentially expressed in all comparisons. GO and KEGG analysis showed that the DEGs were enriched in molecular functions related to disease, signal transduction, metabolism, and the endocrine system’s function. The main components involved were ribosomes, nucleosomes, proteases, and phosphokinases, among others. This study explored the formation and regulation mechanism of cold tolerance in honeybees, not only providing a theoretical basis for cultivating honeybees with excellent traits but also promoting research and practice on insect stress tolerance.
Lysteria Monocytogenes Infection during Monochorionic Twin Pregnancy: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Roero Sofia , Peila Chiara , Arduino Silvana , Deantoni Sonia , Coscia Alessandra , Revelli Alberto
Published: October 2024

Listeriosis is a rare but severe foodborne disease caused by Listeria Monocytogenes (LM), a small facultative intracellular bacillus. When occurring in pregnant women, it can be vertically transmitted to the fetus and the newborn. Infected women usually display aspecific and mild symptoms, and rarely develop the severe forms of the disease (such as neurolisteriosis). On the contrary, fetal and neonatal listeriosis can lead to complications such as fetal loss, preterm birth, neonatal sepsis, and respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). Prompt diagnosis is one of the main challenges because of the aspecific presentation of the disease; therapy relies on antibiotics that reach high intracellular concentration and can penetrate and pass the placenta reaching the fetus. Herein we report an infrequent case of LM infection involving a woman with monochorionic diamniotic twin pregnancy, followed by a comprehensive review of the available literature on listeriosis in pregnancy.
CT-Based Evaluation of Volumetric Posterior Pelvic Bone Density with Implications for the Percutaneous Screw Fixation of the Sacroiliac Joint
Authors: Kułakowski Michał , Elster Karol , Janiak Michał , Kułakowska Julia , Żuchowski Paweł , Wojciechowski Rafał , Dura Marta , Lech Marcin , Korolczuk Krzysztof , Grzonkowska Magdalena , Szpinda Michał , Baumgart Mariusz
Published: October 2024

Background: Operative treatment of fragility fractures of the pelvis has become a gold standard. Preoperative planning, including the assessment of the pathway for iliosacral screws, is crucial. The anchorage of the screw depends on the bone quality. Some recent studies have concentrated on assessing bone mineral density (BMD) with the use of Hounsfield unit (HU) values obtained from CT scans. The aim of the present study is to determine the best sacral levels of S1–S3 on the pathway of iliosacral screws for sacroiliac joint fixation. Methods: Patients admitted to the Independent Public Healthcare Center in Rypin between 1 of September and 1 of December in 2023, who had CT scans of the pelvis performed on them for different reasons, were included in this study. In total, 103 patients—56 men and 47 women—were enrolled in the study and consecutively separated into two groups of different ages: 18–60 years old (group A) and above 60 years old (group B). The volumetric bone density expressed in HU values was measured with sacral levels of S1, S2 and S3. Apart from the bodies of sacral vertebrae S1–S3, our measurements involved the ala of the ilium in the vicinity of the sacroiliac joint and the wing of the sacrum. All the measurements were performed on the pathway of presumptive iliosacral screws to stabilize the sacroiliac joint. Results: In group A (58 patients) the highest bone density in sacral bodies was found in S1 that gradually decreased to S3, while the opposite tendency was demonstrated in the ala of ilium. The HU values in the wing of the sacrum did not display statistical significance. In group B (45 patients), the highest bone density was also found in the sacral body S1 that decreased toward S3 but in the ala of ilium, the highest bone density was found with level S1 and lowest with level S2. In both groups, the highest bone density referred to the wing of the sacrum. Conclusion: While the perfect construct for posterior pelvic ring fixation remains unclear, our findings may imply that sacroiliac joint screws inserted into the wing of the sacrum of greater bone density could provide much more successful fixation in comparison to those anchored in the body of sacral vertebra of lesser bone density.
Is Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasonography a New, Reliable Tool for Early-Graft-versus-Host Disease Diagnosis?
Authors: Lipan Lavinia-Eugenia , Ioanitescu Simona , Enache Alexandra-Oana , Saftoiu Adrian , Tanase Alina Daniela
Published: October 2024

Acute gastrointestinal graft-versus-host disease (GI aGVHD) is a significant and life-threatening complication in patients undergoing allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo-SCT). Early diagnosis of GI aGVHD is crucial for improving patient outcomes, but it remains a challenge due to the condition’s nonspecific symptoms and the reliance on invasive diagnostic methods, such as biopsies and endoscopic procedures. In recent years, interest in non-invasive diagnostic techniques for graft-versus-host disease has increased, with contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) being one of them. For this reason, we aimed to examine the potential of ultrasound as a non-invasive, safe, and cost-effective alternative for the early detection and monitoring of GI aGVHD in this review. Our narrative review aims to describe the use of multimodal US that includes conventional US (B-mode and Doppler US) and advanced ultrasound techniques such as CEUS and CRTE for the non-invasive diagnosis of GI GVHD. We browsed several databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. The search spanned 2000 to the present, focusing on articles written in English that reviewed the use of these imaging techniques in the context of GI GVHD. Following our research, we noticed that CEUS offers several advantages, including the real-time visualization of the gastrointestinal wall, assessment of blood flow, and detailed microvascular analysis—all achieved without the use of ionizing radiation. This feature makes CEUS an appealing option for repeated assessments, which are often necessary in monitoring the progression of GI aGVHD. When used in conjunction with conventional gastrointestinal ultrasound (GIUS), CEUS provides a more comprehensive view of the structural and functional changes occurring in the GI tract, potentially enhancing diagnostic accuracy and allowing for earlier intervention. In comparison to traditional diagnostic methods like tissue biopsy or CT scans, CEUS is less invasive, quicker to perform, and better tolerated by patients, especially those in fragile health following allo-SCT. Its non-invasive nature and ability to provide immediate imaging results make it a valuable tool for clinicians, particularly in settings where minimizing patient discomfort and risk is paramount. However, despite these advantages, there are still gaps in the literature regarding CEUS’s full diagnostic accuracy for GI aGVHD. Further research, including larger clinical trials and comparative studies, is needed to validate CEUS’s role in routine clinical practice and to establish standardized protocols for its use. Nonetheless, CEUS shows considerable potential to transform the diagnostic approach to GI aGVHD by improving early detection, reducing the need for invasive procedures, and ultimately enhancing treatment outcomes for affected patients.