bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does wood mulch trigger microbially mediated positive plant-soil feedback in degraded boreal forest sites? A post hoc study
Authors: Stefani Franck , Beguin Julien , Paré David , Morency Marie-Josée , Martineau Christine , Fortin J. André , Thiffault Nelson , Séguin Armand
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Reforestation of degraded lands in the boreal forest is challenging and depends on the direction and strength of the plant-soil feedback (PSF).

Methods

Using a gradient in tree productivity (null, low and high) from a long-term, spatially replicated reforestation experiment of borrow pits in the boreal forest, we investigated the interplay between microbial communities and soil and tree nutrient stocks and concentrations in relation to a positive PSF induced by wood mulch amendment.

Results

Three levels of mulch amendment underlie the observed gradient in tree productivity, and plots that had been amended with a continuous layer of mulch 17 years earlier showed a positive PSF with trees up to 6 m tall, a closed canopy, and a developing humus layer. The average taxonomic and functional composition of the bacterial and fungal communities differed markedly betweenlow- and high-productivity plots. Trees in high-productivity plots recruited a specialized soil microbiome that was more efficient at nutrient mobilization and acquisition. These plots showed increases in carbon (C), calcium (Ca), nitrogen (N), potassium (K), and phosphorus (P) stocks and as well as bacterial and fungal biomass. The soil microbiome was dominated by taxa from the fungal genus Cortinarius and the bacterial family Chitinophagaceae, and a complex microbial network with higher connectivity and more keystone species supported tree productivity in reforested plots compared to unproductive plots.

Discussion

Therefore, mulching of plots resulted in a microbially mediated PSF that enhances mineral weathering and non-symbiotic N fixation, and in turn helps transform unproductive plots into productive plots to ensure rapid restoration of the forest ecosystem in a harsh boreal environment.
Dose health education on dementia prevention have more effects on community residents when a community physician/nurse leads it? A cross-sectional study
Authors: Gong De , Peng Yan , Liu Xiao , Zhang Jinying , Deng Menghui , Yang Tiantian , Yang Yanni
Published: May 2023

Background

Dementia is a growing public health concern worldwide. Community residents still have limited knowledge about dementia prevention, although many sources are accessible for individuals to acquire knowledge.

Methods

A questionnaire-based survey was conducted in five communities in Chongqing, China, between March 2021 and February 2022. Participants were divided into three groups according to the dementia-related education they received: physician/nurse-led, mass media, and no relevant education. Covariance analysis was performed to determine the differences among the three groups in knowledge, motivation, and lifestyle, with the covariate of MoCA scores (education-adjusted).

Results

Of the 221 participants, 18 (8.1%) received physician/nurse-led education, 101 (45.7%) received only mass media education, and 102 (46.2%) did not receive any relevant education regarding dementia prevention. Participants who only received mass media education had a higher level of education (t = 5.567, p = 0.004) and cognitive function (t = 13.978, p < 0.001). The analysis of covariance showed that compared with participants who received no relevant education, those who received physician/nurse-led education had higher levels of knowledge, perceived benefits, and better lifestyle, and those who received mass media education had lower perceived barriers; however, higher levels of cues to action, general health motivation, self-efficacy, and lifestyle (all p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The popularization of dementia-related education was not ideal for communities. Physician/nurse-led education plays a vital role in providing knowledge and promoting lifestyles for dementia prevention, but may not motivate community residents. Mass media education may help encourage residents and promote their lifestyles.
Vaccine hesitancy and the willingness to recommend the COVID-19 vaccine to children in a rural country on the United States-Mexico border
Authors: Darisi Raghu D. , Buckland Audrey J. , Morales Mario , Ingram Maia , Harris Emily , Holzberg Jeffrey R.
Published: May 2023

Introduction

As of October 26, 2022, only 9% of children in the United States aged 6 months to 4 years have received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine despite FDA approval since June 17, 2022. Rates are better yet still low for children aged 5 to 11 years as nearly 30% were fully vaccinated as of August 23, 2022. Vaccine hesitancy among adults is one of the major factors affecting low vaccine uptake rates in children against COVID-19, yet most studies examining vaccine hesitancy have targeted school-age and adolescent children.

Methods

With the aim of assessing the willingness to recommend the COVID-19 vaccination to children under 5 years compared to children 5 to 12 years of age, a county-wide survey was conducted between January 11 and March 7, 2022, among adults on the United States-Mexico border.

Results

Among the 765 responses, 72.5% were female and 42.3% were Latinx. The most significant factor associated with likelihood to recommend the COVID-19 vaccine to children less than 5 years and 5–12 years of age was adult vaccination status. Ordinal logistic regression also indicated that ethnicity, primary language, being a parent, previous COVID-19 infection, and concern about getting COVID-19 in the future were significantly associated with likelihood of COVID-19 vaccine recommendation to children < 5 years and 5–12 years old.

Discussion

This study found high consistency among respondents in their willingness to vaccinate children aged < 5 years compared with children aged 5–12 years. Our findings support public health strategies that target adult vaccinations as an avenue to improve childhood vaccinations for young children
Introducing DynaPTI–constructing a dynamic patent technology indicator using text mining and machine learning
Authors: Freunek Michael , Niggli Matthias
Published: May 2023

Patent data is an established source of information for both scientific research and corporate intelligence. Yet, most patent-based technology indicators fail to consider firm-level dynamics regarding their technological quality and technological activity. Accordingly, these indicators are unlikely to deliver an unbiased view on the current state of firm-level innovation and are thus incomplete tools for researchers and corporate intelligence practitioners. In this paper, we develop DynaPTI, an indicator that tackles this particular shortcoming of existing patent-based measures. Our proposed framework extends the literature by incorporating a dynamic component and is built upon an index-based comparison of firms. Furthermore, we use machine-learning techniques to enrich our indicator with textual information from patent texts. Together, these features allow our proposed framework to provide precise and up-to-date assessments about firm-level innovation activities. To present an exemplary implementation of the framework, we provide an empirical application to companies from the wind energy sector and compare our results to alternatives. Our corresponding findings suggest that our approach can generate valuable insights that are complementary to existing approaches, particularly regarding the identification of recently emerging, innovation-overperformers in a particular technological field.
The implementation of SDG12 in and from higher education institutions: universities as laboratories for generating sustainable cities
Authors: Martínez-Acosta Mariajulia , Vázquez-Villegas Patricia , Mejía-Manzano Luis Alberto , Soto-Inzunza Gladis Valeria , Ruiz-Aguilar Karina Mayela , Kuhn Cuellar Luis , Caratozzolo Patricia , Membrillo-Hernández Jorge
Published: May 2023

Introduction

It is known that the world is facing and will face significant sustainability challenges. Sustainable Development Goal 12 (SDG12), responsible consumption and production, is one of the most relevant SDGs for building Sustainable Cities. This study is based on the analysis of the implementation of SDG12 in cities, starting from universities as laboratories or first examples of sustainability.

Methods

The study was carried out through a multilevel scale approach. A systematic review of the literature (global scale) of the last 5 years (2018–2022) was conducted. An analysis of the program and the initiatives of a Higher Education Institution (Tecnologico de Monterrey) is presented (local scale). Finally, a survey was applied to Faculty at this University (micro-scale).

Results

The systematic review indicated that the main themes or aspects addressed in SDG12 by higher education institutions were sustainable food, supply chains, community, infrastructure, technology, policies, energy consumption, the collaborative economy, smart cities, and curricula. The local scale analysis highlighted the Distrito Tec project, 37 institutional initiatives, and 26 courses directly related to SDG12. The survey showed that 8% of Faculty considered SDG12 the most important of the SDGs and stated that this goal is necessary to reduce environmental impacts. As the most significant impact that Universities can have on SDG12, 52% of the Faculty consider that Universities should become living labs in the transition toward sustainable cities, followed by 36% who think it would be better to implement operational facilities.

Discussion

The diverse contributions of the HEIs at the three scales were classified into six categories: culture, mitigation, adaptation, education, research, and outreach. The study indicates that SDG 12 has been achieved by universities in different ways, which overlaps widely with the performance of other SDGs. Results demonstrate that following a multistakeholder approach, international collaborations between HEIs can foster technology-driven multi-disciplinary research projects to consolidate sustainable cities. Building capacity to accelerate the transition of universities into urban living labs will promote climate action among the students who enroll every year.
Application of cholecystic duct plasty in the prevention of biliary complications following orthotopic liver transplantation
Authors: Wang Jing , Cui Song-ping , Lyu Shao-cheng , Chen Qing , Huang Jin-can , Wang Han-xuan , He Qiang , Lang Ren
Published: May 2023

Background

The purpose was aimed to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of cholecystic duct plasty (CDP) and biliary reconstruction techniques preventing biliary complications following orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) first proposed by our center.

Methods

127 enrolled patients who underwent LT in our center from January 2015 to December 2019 were analyzed retrospectively. According to the mode of biliary tract reconstruction, patients were divided into CDP group (Group 1, n = 53) and control group (Group 2, n = 74). The differences of perioperative general data, biliary complications and long-term prognosis between two groups were compared and analyzed.

Results

All patients completed the operation successfully, the incidence of perioperative complications was 22.8%. There was no significant difference in perioperative general data and complications between the two groups. Follow-up ended in June 2020, with a median follow-up period of 31 months. During the follow-up period, biliary complications occurred in 26 patients, with an overall incidence of 20.5%. The overall incidence of biliary complications and anastomotic stenosis in Group 1 was lower than that in Group 2 (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in overall prognosis between the two groups (P = 0.274), however, the cumulative incidence of biliary complications in Group 1 was lower than that in Group 2 (P = 0.035).

Conclusion

Reconstruction of common bile duct by CDP represents considerable safety and practicability, particularly for patients with small diameter of common bile duct or wide discrepancy of bile duct size between donor and recipient.
Case report and review of the literature: rare fetus-in-fetu presenting as oropharyngeal epignathus
Authors: Runggaldier Daniel , Reinehr Michael , Friedrich Hergen , Henze Georg , Good Dominic , Gysin Claudine
Published: May 2023

An epignathus is caused by a continuous spectrum of masses of the oral cavity or oropharynx ranging in its entity from mature teratoma to the exceedingly rare fetus-in-fetu. Due to its location, regardless of the entity, the occurrence of an epignathus is frequently associated with life threatening airway obstruction. Here we demonstrate a case of a fetus-in-fetu presenting as an epignatus. We describe its successful management and review the available literature. Early diagnosis and knowledge of the preoperative workup are essential to enable a multidisciplinary management. Once the airway is secured, surgical excision is the treatment of choice often resulting in a good clinical outcome and prognosis.
A finite element analysis of the carpal arch with various locations of carpal tunnel release
Authors: Yu Lu , Jia Jingyi , Lakshminarayanan Kishor , Li Yiming , Gan Yaokai , Yao Yifei
Published: May 2023

Objective

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of the location of transverse carpal ligament (TCL) transection on the biomechanical property of the carpal arch structure. It was hypothesized that carpal tunnel release would lead to an increase of the carpal arch compliance (CAC) in a location-dependent manner.

Methods

A pseudo-3D finite element model of the volar carpal arch at the distal carpal tunnel was used to simulate arch area change under different intratunnel pressures (0–72 mmHg) after TCL transection at different locations along the transverse direction of the TCL.

Results

The CAC of the intact carpal arch was 0.092 mm2/mmHg, and the simulated transections ranging from 8 mm ulnarly to 8 mm radially from the center point of the TCL led to increased CACs that were 2.6–3.7 times of that of the intact carpal arch. The CACs after radial transections were greater than those ulnarly transected carpal arches.

Conclusion

The TCL transection in the radial region was biomechanically favorable in reducing carpal tunnel constraint for median nerve decompression.
Porous titanium microsphere kyphoplasty for augmentation treatment of osteoporotic vertebral fractures: Technical report and case series
Authors: Tartara Fulvio , Armocida Daniele , Garbossa Diego , Meli Francesco , Costantino Gabriele , Cofano Fabio , Francaviglia Natale
Published: May 2023

Background

Vertebral augmentation procedures (VAPs) are used in cases of persistent and unresponsive pain in patients with vertebral compression fractures (VCFs). Although VAPs are considered a safe procedure providing quick pain relief and improved physical function, some postoperative complications can occur, for example, bone cement leakage. The material used in this procedure is almost exclusively polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), which appears to lack biological activity and osteointegration capabilities. In this study, we introduce a new filling system consisting of cannulas preloaded with titanium microspheres, which stabilizes and consolidates the structure of the vertebral body in treating VCFs after the performance of the kyphoplasty procedure.

Methods

We report a retrospective case series of six patients affected by osteoporotic vertebral fractures with worsening back pain, neurologic impairment, and failed conservative treatment who underwent the VAP at our institute, for which the SPHEROPLAST [MT ORTHO s.r.l., Aci Sant’Antonio (CT), Italy] system was used.

Results

The patients had failed an average conservative trial of 3.9 weeks before they presented to us with neurodeficit. There were two men and four women with a mean age of 74.5 years. The average hospital stay was 2 days. There were no reported perioperative complications related to cement injection, such as intraoperative hypoxia, hypotension, pulmonary embolization, myocardial infarction, neurovascular or viscera injury, or death. The VAS score significantly decreased from a mean preoperative of 7.5 (range 6–19) to 3.8 (range 3–5) immediately after surgery and 1.8 (range 1–3).

Conclusion

We report the first clinical results in a series of six patients treated for VCF using the microsphere system after analyzing the clinical results produced by, and the complications that arose from, this new device. In patients with VCF, the VAP using titanium microspheres appears to be a feasible and safe procedure with a low risk of material leakage.
Incidence of SARS-CoV-2 Infection and Factors Associated With Complete COVID-19 Vaccine Uptake Among Migrant Origin Persons in Finland
Authors: Bastola Kalpana , Nohynek Hanna , Lilja Eero , Castaneda Anu E. , Austero Sara , Kuusio Hannamaria , Skogberg Natalia
Published: May 2023

Objective: We examined incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection, COVID-19 vaccine uptake and factors associated with complete COVID-19 vaccine uptake among persons of migrant origin in Finland.

Methods: Data on laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 vaccine doses between March 2020 and November 2021 were linked to FinMonik register sample (n = 13,223) and MigCOVID (n = 3,668) survey data using unique personal identifier. Logistic regression was the main method of analyses.

Results: Among FinMonik sample, complete COVID-19 vaccine uptake was lower among persons of Russia/former Soviet Union, Estonia, and rest of Africa and higher among persons of Southeast Asia, rest of Asia, and the Middle East/North Africa than among persons originating from Europe/North America/Oceania. Male sex, younger age, migration age (<18 years) and shorter length of residence were associated with lower vaccine uptake among FinMonik sample, whereas younger age, being economically inactive, poorer language skills, experiences of discrimination and psychological distress were associated with lower vaccine uptake among MigCOVID sub-sample.

Conclusion: Our Findings point to a further need of tailored and targeted communication and community outreach strategies to increase vaccine uptake among persons of migrant origin.
Identifying Key Factors for Burnout Among Orthopedic Surgeons Using the Analytic Hierarchy Process Method
Authors: Wang Shiqian , Li Lin , Jin Yanjun , Liao Rui , Chuang Yen-Ching , Zhu Zhong
Published: May 2023

Objectives: To develop an evaluation model for, and identify key factors contributing to, burnout in orthopedic surgeons, providing a reference for the management of burnout among orthopedic surgeons in hospitals.

Methods: We developed an analytic hierarchy process (AHP) model with 3 dimensions and 10 sub-criteria based on an extensive literature review and expert assessment. We used expert and purposive sampling and 17 orthopedic surgeons were selected as research subjects. The AHP process was then used to obtain the weights and to prioritize the dimensions and criteria for burnout in orthopedic surgeons.

Results: The dimension of C1 (personal/family) was the key factor affecting burnout in orthopedic surgeons, and in the sub-criteria, the top four sub-criteria were C11 (little time for family), C31 (anxiety about clinical competence), C12 (work-family conflict), and C22 (heavy work load).

Conclusion: This model was effective in analyzing the key factors contributing to job burnout risk, and the results can inform improved management of the levels of burnout affecting orthopedic surgeons in hospitals.
Functional Characterization of Candidate Genes, Gohir.D05G103700 and Gohir.D12G153600, Identified through Expression QTL Analysis Using Virus-Induced Gene Silencing in Upland Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)
Authors: Naveed Salman , Rustgi Sachin
Published: May 2023

Cotton (Gossypium spp.) is a major source of natural fiber and an important cash crop. The cotton growth habit and architecture determine its productivity and influence management strategies for commercial production. The GATA transcription factors (TFs) control various developmental processes in plants, such as flower, bract and embryo development, and petal differentiation. As stable transformation is still a bottleneck in many plant species, TRV-VIGS was used to manipulate gene expression in different plants, including Gossypium hirsutum L. In this study, we undertook the TRV-based VIGS to functionally characterize two candidate genes, Gohir.D05G103700 and Gohir.D12G153600, identified through expression QTL analysis for five floral induction and meristem identity genes using the upland cotton mini-core collection. Virus-induced silencing of the Gohir.D05G103700 gene resulted in up to a 1.4-fold reduction in the transcript level in two inoculated plants, G3 and G4, and Gohir.D12G153600 gene resulted in up to a 2.3-fold reduction in transcript level in a single inoculated plant P05 relative to the mock-treated plant. The TRV2-Gohir.D05G103700-inoculated plants G3 and G4 also exhibited loss of the supernumerary (fourth) floral bract in the squares, whereas the TRV2-Gohir.D12G153600-inoculated plants did not show any observable phenotypic change relative to the mock-treated plants. Altogether, this study suggested that TRV-VIGS can be used to characterize genes in cotton relatively rapidly, and the cotton Gohir.D05G103700 gene is a positive regulator of the indeterminate growth habit in cotton, which could be manipulated to obtain a cotton plant with architecture best suited for the cultivation area.
Enterococcal Phages: Food and Health Applications
Authors: Rodríguez-Lucas Carlos , Ladero Victor
Published: May 2023

Enterococcus is a diverse genus of Gram-positive bacteria belonging to the lactic acid bacteria (LAB) group. It is found in many environments, including the human gut and fermented foods. This microbial genus is at a crossroad between its beneficial effects and the concerns regarding its safety. It plays an important role in the production of fermented foods, and some strains have even been proposed as probiotics. However, they have been identified as responsible for the accumulation of toxic compounds—biogenic amines—in foods, and over the last 20 years, they have emerged as important hospital-acquired pathogens through the acquisition of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). In food, there is a need for targeted measures to prevent their growth without disturbing other LAB members that participate in the fermentation process. Furthermore, the increase in AMR has resulted in the need for the development of new therapeutic options to treat AMR enterococcal infections. Bacteriophages have re-emerged in recent years as a precision tool for the control of bacterial populations, including the treatment of AMR microorganism infections, being a promising weapon as new antimicrobials. In this review, we focus on the problems caused by Enterococcus faecium and Enterococcus faecalis in food and health and on the recent advances in the discovery and applications of enterococcus-infecting bacteriophages against these bacteria, with special attention paid to applications against AMR enterococci.
mTORC1/ERK1/2 Interplay Regulates Protein Synthesis and Survival in Acute Myeloid Leukemia Cell Lines
Authors: Germano Concetta Anna , Clemente Giuseppe , Storniolo Antonello , Romeo Maria Anele , Ferretti Elisabetta , Cirone Mara , Di Renzo Livia
Published: May 2023

mTOR is constitutively activated in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cells, as indicated by the phosphorylation of its substrates, 4EBP1 and P70S6K. Here, we found that quercetin (Q) and rapamycin (Rap) inhibited P70S6K phosphorylation, partially dephosphorylated 4EBP1, and activated ERK1/2 in U937 and THP1, two leukemia cell lines. ERK1/2 inhibition by U0126 induced a stronger dephosphorylation of mTORC1 substrates and activated AKT. The concomitant inhibition of ERK1/2 and AKT further dephosphorylated 4EBP1 and further increased Q- or Rap-mediated cytotoxicity, compared to the single ERK1/2 or AKT inhibition in cells undergoing Q- or Rap-treatments. Moreover, quercetin or rapamycin reduced autophagy, particularly when used in combination with the ERK1/2 inhibitor, U0126. This effect was not dependent on TFEB localization in nuclei or cytoplasm or on the transcription of different autophagy genes, but did correlate with the reduction in protein translation due to a strong eIF2α-Ser51 phosphorylation. Thus, ERK1/2, by limiting 4EBP1 de-phosphorylation and eIF2α phosphorylation, behaves as a paladin of protein synthesis. Based on these findings, the combined inhibition of mTORC1, ERK1/2, and AKT should be considered in treatment of AML.
Role of Angiotensin II in Cardiovascular Diseases: Introducing Bisartans as a Novel Therapy for Coronavirus 2019
Authors: Swiderski Jordan , Gadanec Laura Kate , Apostolopoulos Vasso , Moore Graham J. , Kelaidonis Konstantinos , Matsoukas John M. , Zulli Anthony
Published: May 2023

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the main contributors to global morbidity and mortality. Major pathogenic phenotypes of CVDs include the development of endothelial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and hyper-inflammatory responses. These phenotypes have been found to overlap with the pathophysiological complications of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). CVDs have been identified as major risk factors for severe and fatal COVID-19 states. The renin–angiotensin system (RAS) is an important regulatory system in cardiovascular homeostasis. However, its dysregulation is observed in CVDs, where upregulation of angiotensin type 1 receptor (AT1R) signaling via angiotensin II (AngII) leads to the AngII-dependent pathogenic development of CVDs. Additionally, the interaction between the spike protein of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 with angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 leads to the downregulation of the latter, resulting in the dysregulation of the RAS. This dysregulation favors AngII/AT1R toxic signaling pathways, providing a mechanical link between cardiovascular pathology and COVID-19. Therefore, inhibiting AngII/AT1R signaling through angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) has been indicated as a promising therapeutic approach to the treatment of COVID-19. Herein, we review the role of AngII in CVDs and its upregulation in COVID-19. We also provide a future direction for the potential implication of a novel class of ARBs called bisartans, which are speculated to contain multifunctional targeting towards COVID-19.
Translating School Faculty Experiences Using PBIS into Recommendations for Practice
Authors: Terrell Hannah M. , Cho Su-Je
Published: May 2023

Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) is a behaviorally based framework that seeks to improve student outcomes in schools. This framework is implemented at differing levels of intensity within a school based on students’ unique needs. Special education teachers and school psychologists are integral pieces of PBIS implementation. Within the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, these service providers may face unique challenges in implementing PBIS principles in schools, particularly due to new or adapted role demands and increased feelings of burnout. The current study examined special education teachers’ and school psychologists’ perceptions of their schools’ practices related to PBIS in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic within five dimensions of understanding and school-based support, as well as overall satisfaction with PBIS in their school. Opportunities for professional development and the presence of PBIS teams emerged as major contributors to faculty satisfaction; however, only about half of participants indicated access to these resources. Special education teachers indicated higher levels of satisfaction with their administrative support and school communication practices when compared to school psychologists. Best practices and reflections from interview participants are discussed.
GIS for the Potential Application of Renewable Energy in Buildings towards Net Zero: A Perspective
Authors: Li Yang , Feng Haibo
Published: May 2023

Environmental, economic, and social activities involve inherent spatial dimensions. The geospatial information system (GIS), a platform containing principles, methods, and tools to link, create, visualize, analyze, and model artificial activities and environment, provides the possibility to develop sustainability in the building sector. With globally political collaborations across governments, the demands to manage and visualize sustainable data (e.g., building energy and environment with geospatial reference) and implement more rigorous building modelling are increasing. A systematic mapping at multiple scales will help urban engineers, architectural engineers, policymakers, and energy planners identify emission hotspots, locate spatial resources, restructure district energy mix, and achieve net zero energy targets. To achieve net zero energy goals, it is crucial to minimize energy consumption, improve energy efficiency, and most importantly, apply renewable energy in buildings. However, these processes imply many aspects and challenges, regarding e.g., data availability, scalability, integrability, and a lack of clear and applicable frameworks. In this conceptional perspective paper, we aim to explore the potential of applying and installing renewable energy in net zero energy buildings using the GIS. More specifically, the described virtual framework will effectively support policy- and decision-makers in optimizing the energy structure, reducing building emissions, and applying renewable energy technologies. We also present challenges, limitations, and future directions for real practice.
Quality of Life after Mandibular Reconstruction Using Free Fibula Flap and Customized Plates: A Case Series and Comparison with the Literature
Authors: Pamias-Romero Jorge , Saez-Barba Manel , de-Pablo-García-Cuenca Alba , Vaquero-Martínez Pablo , Masnou-Pratdesaba Joan , Bescós-Atín Coro
Published: May 2023

A single-center retrospective study was conducted to assess health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in 23 consecutive patients undergoing mandibular reconstruction using the computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) technology, free fibula flap, and titanium patient-specific implants (PSIs). HRQoL was evaluated after at least 12 months of surgery using the University of Washington Quality of Life (UW-QOL) questionnaire for head and neck cancer patients. In the 12 single question domains, the highest mean scores were found for “taste” (92.9), “shoulder” (90.9), “anxiety” (87.5), and “pain” (86.4), whereas the lowest scores were observed for “chewing” (57.1), “appearance” (67.9), and “saliva” (78.1). In the three global questions of the UW-QOL questionnaire, 80% of patients considered that their HRQoL was as good as or even better than it was compared to their HRQoL before cancer, and only 20% reported that their HRQoL had worsened after the presence of the disease. Overall QoL during the past 7 days was rated as good, very good or outstanding by 81% of patients, respectively. No patient reported poor or very poor QoL. In the present study, restoring mandibular continuity with free fibula flap and patient-specific titanium implants designed with the CAD-CAM technology improved HRQoL.
Senescent Cells: A Therapeutic Target in Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Suda Masayoshi , Paul Karl H. , Minamino Tohru , Miller Jordan D. , Lerman Amir , Ellison-Hughes Georgina M. , Tchkonia Tamar , Kirkland James L.
Published: May 2023

Senescent cell accumulation has been observed in age-associated diseases including cardiovascular diseases. Senescent cells lack proliferative capacity and secrete senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) factors that may cause or worsen many cardiovascular diseases. Therapies targeting senescent cells, especially senolytic drugs that selectively induce senescent cell removal, have been shown to delay, prevent, alleviate, or treat multiple age-associated diseases in preclinical models. Some senolytic clinical trials have already been completed or are underway for a number of diseases and geriatric syndromes. Understanding how cellular senescence affects the various cell types in the cardiovascular system, such as endothelial cells, vascular smooth muscle cells, fibroblasts, immune cells, progenitor cells, and cardiomyocytes, is important to facilitate translation of senotherapeutics into clinical interventions. This review highlights: (1) the characteristics of senescent cells and their involvement in cardiovascular diseases, focusing on the aforementioned cardiovascular cell types, (2) evidence about senolytic drugs and other senotherapeutics, and (3) the future path and clinical potential of senotherapeutics for cardiovascular diseases.
Distinct Traits of Structural and Regulatory Evolutional Conservation of Human Genes with Specific Focus on Major Cancer Molecular Pathways
Authors: Zakharova Galina , Modestov Alexander , Pugacheva Polina , Mekic Rijalda , Savina Ekaterina , Guryanova Anastasia , Rachkova Anastasia , Yakushov Semyon , Alimov Andrei , Kulaeva Elizaveta , Fedoseeva Elena , Kleyman Artem , Vasin Kirill , Tkachev Victor , Garazha Andrew , Sekacheva Marina , Suntsova Maria , Sorokin Maksim , Buzdin Anton , Zolotovskaia Marianna A.
Published: May 2023

The evolution of protein-coding genes has both structural and regulatory components. The first can be assessed by measuring the ratio of non-synonymous to synonymous nucleotide substitutions. The second component can be measured as the normalized proportion of transposable elements that are used as regulatory elements. For the first time, we characterized in parallel the regulatory and structural evolutionary profiles for 10,890 human genes and 2972 molecular pathways. We observed a ~0.1 correlation between the structural and regulatory metrics at the gene level, which appeared much higher (~0.4) at the pathway level. We deposited the data in the publicly available database RetroSpect. We also analyzed the evolutionary dynamics of six cancer pathways of two major axes: Notch/WNT/Hedgehog and AKT/mTOR/EGFR. The Hedgehog pathway had both components slower, whereas the Akt pathway had clearly accelerated structural evolution. In particular, the major hub nodes Akt and beta-catenin showed both components strongly decreased, whereas two major regulators of Akt TCL1 and CTMP had outstandingly high evolutionary rates. We also noticed structural conservation of serine/threonine kinases and the genes related to guanosine metabolism in cancer signaling: GPCRs, G proteins, and small regulatory GTPases (Src, Rac, Ras); however, this was compensated by the accelerated regulatory evolution.
Molecular Chaperones’ Potential against Defective Proteostasis of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Kinger Sumit , Dubey Ankur Rakesh , Kumar Prashant , Jagtap Yuvraj Anandrao , Choudhary Akash , Kumar Amit , Prajapati Vijay Kumar , Dhiman Rohan , Mishra Amit
Published: May 2023

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neuronal degenerative condition identified via a build-up of mutant aberrantly folded proteins. The native folding of polypeptides is mediated by molecular chaperones, preventing their pathogenic aggregation. The mutant protein expression in ALS is linked with the entrapment and depletion of chaperone capacity. The lack of a thorough understanding of chaperones’ involvement in ALS pathogenesis presents a significant challenge in its treatment. Here, we review how the accumulation of the ALS-linked mutant FUS, TDP-43, SOD1, and C9orf72 proteins damage cellular homeostasis mechanisms leading to neuronal loss. Further, we discuss how the HSP70 and DNAJ family co-chaperones can act as potential targets for reducing misfolded protein accumulation in ALS. Moreover, small HSPB1 and HSPB8 chaperones can facilitate neuroprotection and prevent stress-associated misfolded protein apoptosis. Designing therapeutic strategies by pharmacologically enhancing cellular chaperone capacity to reduce mutant protein proteotoxic effects on ALS pathomechanisms can be a considerable advancement. Chaperones, apart from directly interacting with misfolded proteins for protein quality control, can also filter their toxicity by initiating strong stress-response pathways, modulating transcriptional expression profiles, and promoting anti-apoptotic functions. Overall, these properties of chaperones make them an attractive target for gaining fundamental insights into misfolded protein disorders and designing more effective therapies against ALS.
Red and Black Paints on Prehistoric Pottery of the Southern Russian Far East: An Archaeometric Study
Authors: Zhushchikhovskaya Irina S. , Buravlev Igor Yu , Karpenko Aleksander A. , Lazina Anastasia A. , Fedorets Aleksander N.
Published: May 2023

This paper considers the results of an examination of painted pottery from prehistoric sites of the Prmor’ye region (Southern Russian Far East) in the northwestern part of the Sea of Japan basin. Red-painted and black-painted ceramic wares occur here only in the remains of the Yankovskaya archaeological culture dated to the 1st mil. BCE. Red painting appears as a colored surface coating, and black painting is represented by very simple drawn patterns. Until recently painting decorations have not been intentionally studied. The objects of our investigation are a small series of red-painted and black-painted ceramic fragments originated from archaeological sites. The methods of optical microscopy, SEM-EDS, and Raman spectroscopy were applied to the study of research materials. As a result, the data on characteristics of texture and composition of red and black paints were obtained. Both were determined to be pre-firing paints. Red paint is a clayish substance mixed with natural ochre pigment containing the hematite coloring agent. Black paint is carbon-based. Black carbon and burnt bone are recognized as colorants. The presented materials are new evidence of pottery paint technologies in prehistoric Eurasia.
Factors Regulating Population Stand Structure in Blackbrush (Coleogyne ramosissima: Rosaceae), a Masting North American Desert Shrub
Authors: Meyer Susan E.
Published: May 2023

Blackbrush (Coleogyne ramosissima Torr.) is the dominant shrub on three million hectares across the transition zone between the western North American warm and cold deserts. This paper presents a study of blackbrush population structure at the stand level at sixteen sites across the species range. New stand-level information is then integrated with what is already known about blackbrush population ecology to explore the stand-level consequences of several unusual features of blackbrush life history, including its masting reproductive strategy, its interactions with heteromyid rodents that are both seed predators and dispersers, and its ability to form ‘seedling banks’ of growth-suppressed individuals, often within the crowns of adult conspecifics. It complements earlier work showing that blackbrush stands are organized at both the inter-clump and intra-clump levels. Each clump represents an establishment nexus where younger individual genets replace older genets over an extended time period. Inter-clump structure is thus determined by the rate of establishment of new clumps rather than new individuals. This has resulted in contrasting stand structures in response to rodent community composition, disturbance regimes, and climatic variability at the leading and trailing edges of current blackbrush distribution in the eastern Mojave Desert and Colorado Plateau regions. Because blackbrush likely disperses too slowly to track anthropogenic climate change, assisted migration with wild-collected seeds may be necessary to promote its continued survival and dominance.
AI-Based Real-Time Star Tracker
Authors: Carmeli Guy , Ben-Moshe Boaz
Published: May 2023

Many systems on Earth and in space require precise orientation when observing the sky, particularly for objects that move at high speeds in space, such as satellites, spaceships, and missiles. These systems often rely on star trackers, which are devices that use star patterns to determine the orientation of the spacecraft. However, traditional star trackers are often expensive and have limitations in their accuracy and robustness. To address these challenges, this research aims to develop a high-performance and cost-effective AI-based Real-Time Star Tracker system as a basic platform for micro/nanosatellites. The system uses existing hardware, such as FPGAs and cameras, which are already part of many avionics systems, to extract line-of-sight (LOS) vectors from sky images. The algorithm implemented in this research is a “lost-in-space” algorithm that uses a self-organizing neural network map (SOM) for star pattern recognition. SOM is an unsupervised machine learning algorithm that is usually used for data visualization, clustering, and dimensionality reduction. Today’s technologies enable star-based navigation, making matching a sky image to the star map an important aspect of navigation. This research addresses the need for reliable, low-cost, and high-performance star trackers, which can accurately recognize star patterns from sky images with a success rate of about 98% in approximately 870 microseconds.
Characterization and Phylogenetic Analysis of the First Complete Mitochondrial Genome of Gnathophyllum americanum (Guérin-Méneville, 1855) (Malacostraca: Decapoda: Palaemonidae)
Authors: Sung Chia-Hsuan , Cheng Chen-Cheng , Huang Chang-Wen , Wang Liang-Jong
Published: May 2023

Complete mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) sequences can provide useful and varied information for evolutionary and phylogenetic studies. We report the first complete mitogenome sequence of the bumblebee shrimp (Gnathophyllum americanum). The mitogenome is 15,842 bp in length and contains 13 protein-encoding genes, 2 ribosomal RNA genes, and 22 transfer RNA genes. The nucleotide composition of the mitogenome was as follows: A,36.72%; T,29.62%; C,21.0%; and G,12.66%. The most common start and stop codons are ATG and TAA, respectively. The MGO (mitochondrial gene order) of G. americanum and Hymenocera picta is unique in Decapoda. Both the phylogeny based on mitochondrial genomic DNA data and the unique MGO pattern indicate that the genus Gnathophyllum might be a sister genus to the genus Hymenocera. The mitogenomic sequence data obtained in this study will provide more information on G. americanum for species identification, population genetics, and biogeography.
Role of Recent PCR Tests for Infectious Ocular Diseases: From Laboratory-Based Studies to the Clinic
Authors: Sugita Sunao , Takase Hiroshi , Nakano Satoko
Published: May 2023

Infectious uveitis is a vision-threatening condition that requires prompt clinical diagnosis and proper treatment. However, rapid and proper diagnosis in infectious uveitis remains challenging. Several examination tests, including polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests, are transitioning from laboratory-based basic research-level tests to bedside clinical tests, and recently tests have changed to where they can be performed right next to clinicians. In this review, we introduce an updated overview of recent studies that are representative of the current trends in clinical microbiological techniques including PCR tests for infectious uveitis.
Cirrhotic Cardiomyopathy Following Bile Duct Ligation in Rats—A Matter of Time?
Authors: Uhlig Moritz , Hein Marc , Habigt Moriz A. , Tolba René H. , Braunschweig Till , Helmedag Marius J. , Arici Melissa , Theißen Alexander , Klinkenberg Axel , Klinge Uwe , Mechelinck Mare
Published: May 2023

Cirrhotic patients often suffer from cirrhotic cardiomyopathy (CCM). Previous animal models of CCM were inconsistent concerning the time and mechanism of injury; thus, the temporal dynamics and cardiac vulnerability were studied in more detail. Rats underwent bile duct ligation (BDL) and a second surgery 28 days later. Cardiac function was assessed by conductance catheter and echocardiography. Histology, gene expression, and serum parameters were analyzed. A chronotropic incompetence (Pd31 < 0.001) and impaired contractility at rest and a reduced contractile reserve (Pd31 = 0.03, Pdob-d31 < 0.001) were seen 31 days after BDL with increased creatine (Pd35, Pd42, and Pd56 < 0.05) and transaminases (Pd31 < 0.001). A total of 56 days after BDL, myocardial fibrosis was seen (Pd56 < 0.001) accompanied by macrophage infiltration (CD68: Pgroup < 0.001) and systemic inflammation (TNFα: Pgroup < 0.001, white blood cell count: Pgroup < 0.001). Myocardial expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha (PGC1α) was increased after 31 (Pd31 < 0.001) and decreased after 42 (Pd42 < 0.001) and 56 days (Pd56 < 0.001). Caspase-3 expression was increased 31 and 56 days after BDL (Pd31 = 0.005; Pd56 = 0.005). Structural changes in the myocardium were seen after 8 weeks. After the second surgery (second hit), transient myocardial insufficiency with secondary organ dysfunction was seen, characterized by reduced contractility and contractile reserve.
Simultaneously Targeting Two Coupled Signalling Molecules in the Mesenchymal Stem Cell Support Efficiently Sensitises the Multiple Myeloma Cell Line H929 to Bortezomib
Authors: Rojas-Zambrano P. M. , Meyer-Herrera J. E. , Ruiz-Aparicio P. F. , Vernot J. P.
Published: May 2023

Several studies have shown that diverse components of the bone marrow (BM) microenvironment play a central role in the progression, pathophysiology, and drug resistance in multiple myeloma (MM). In particular, the dynamic interaction between BM mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSC) and MM cells has shown great relevance. Here we showed that inhibiting both PKC and NF-κB signalling pathways in BM-MSC reduced cell survival in the MM cell line H929 and increased its susceptibility to the proteasome inhibitor bortezomib. PKC-mediated cell survival inhibition and bortezomib susceptibility induction were better performed by the chimeric peptide HKPS than by the classical enzastaurin inhibitor, probably due to its greatest ability to inhibit cell adhesion and its increased capability to counteract the NF-κB-related signalling molecules increased by the co-cultivation of BM-MSC with H929 cells. Thus, inhibiting two coupled signalling molecules in BM-MSC was more effective in blocking the supportive cues emerging from the mesenchymal stroma. Considering that H929 cells were also directly susceptible to PKC and NF-κB inhibition, we showed that treatment of co-cultures with the HKPS peptide and BAY11-7082, followed by bortezomib, increased H929 cell death. Therefore, targeting simultaneously connected signalling elements of BM-MSC responsible for MM cells support with compounds that also have anti-MM activity can be an improved treatment strategy.
Long-Term Safety and Efficacy of Pars Plana Vitrectomy for Uveitis: Experience of a Tertiary Referral Centre in the United Kingdom
Authors: El Faouri Muhannd , Ally Naseer , Lippera Myrta , Subramani Siddharth , Moussa George , Ivanova Tsveta , Patton Niall , Dhawahir-Scala Felipe , Rocha-de-Lossada Carlos , Ferrara Mariantonia , Jalil Assad
Published: May 2023

Aim: To evaluate the effectiveness of pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) without macular intervention on uveitis eyes with persistent vitreous inflammation/opacities in terms of visual acuity (VA), intraocular inflammation and macular profile. Methods: We carried out a single-center retrospective study of patients with uveitic eyes that underwent PPV without intervention on the macula due to persistent vitreous inflammation/opacities. The primary outcome measures were best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular inflammation and macular profile at 3, 12 and 24 months after surgery. Results: Twenty-seven eyes of twenty-six patients were analyzed. Overall, 77.8% had an improvement of VA (55% by 0.3 LogMAR or more); 62.5% of patients had no intraocular inflammation, and the number of patients on systemic steroids and second-line immunosuppressives was reduced by 26% at 12 months; 87.5% of patients had resolution of macular oedema at 12 months. Conclusion: PPV for persistent vitreous inflammation/opacities is safe and effective, showing beneficial outcomes in terms of improvement of BCVA and the reduction in inflammation.