bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A systematic approach to defining and verifying descriptors used in the Qualitative Behavioural Assessment of sows
Authors: Ibach Sarah , Chou Jen-Yun , Battini Monica , Parsons Thomas D
Published: February 2024

Qualitative Behaviour Assessment (QBA) is a welfare evaluation tool that uses a holistic approach to capturing an animal’s emotional state. Lists of QBA descriptors validated to assess pig welfare exist, but their definitions are often not described in peer-reviewed literature and the processes used to develop definitions are lacking. The objective of this study is to detail a systematic approach to creating clear definitions for a pre-existing fixed list of QBA descriptors and test their application. A fixed list of 20 descriptors from the EU Welfare Quality® assessment protocol for pigs was modified, and ten pig experts were recruited to assist with defining these descriptors in a focus group-style discussion. Half of the experts involved in creating descriptor definitions partook in a subsequent step, where the newly developed definitions were tested by implementing QBA on a video library of post-weaned sows selected to capture the breadth of sow behaviour. Experts displayed excellent agreement in identifying a PCA dimension interpreted as the valence of descriptors and good agreement for another reflecting arousal. Inter-observer reliability was also measured for each descriptor. Only two descriptors exhibited less than moderate agreement between experts whereas half of the descriptors evoked substantial agreement or better. These findings support our process to delineate clear definitions for a fixed list of QBA descriptors in pigs. This study is the first of its kind detailing the in-depth process of creating and verifying descriptor definitions for future use in sow welfare assessment.
Antidumping Protectionism and Globalized Economies
Authors: Coleman Tyler
Published: February 2024

Why do firms demand antidumping protectionism? Contemporary literature highlights a plethora of causal mechanisms within the data-generating process, including retaliatory motives, exchange rate appreciations, business cycles, and deindustrialization. I argue that countries that are economically integrated into global markets should be associated with less demand for antidumping trade remedies. In particular, countries with higher levels of trade and financial flows should receive fewer petitions for antidumping trade remedies from firms overall, ceteris paribus. I test this theoretical argument with a series of de facto globalization indicators collected from thirty-three countries between 1978 and 2022, finding support for these arguments.
Philosophical Agreement and Philosophical Progress
Authors: Smith Julia
Published: February 2024

In the literature on philosophical progress it is often assumed that agreement is a necessary condition for progress. This assumption is sensible only if agreement is a reliable sign of the truth, since agreement on false answers to philosophical questions would not constitute progress. This paper asks whether agreement among philosophers is (or would be) likely to be a reliable sign of truth. Insights from social choice theory are used to identify the conditions under which agreement among philosophers would be a reliable indicator of the truth, and it is argued that we lack good reason to think that philosophical inquiry meets these conditions. The upshot is that philosophical agreement is epistemically uninformative: agreement on the answer to a philosophical question does not supply even a prima facie reason to think that the agreed-upon view is true. However, the epistemic uninformativeness of philosophical agreement is not an indictment of philosophy's progress, because philosophy is valuable independent of its ability to generate agreement on the correct answers to philosophical questions.
Length of antibiotic therapy among adults hospitalized with uncomplicated community-acquired pneumonia, 2013–2020
Authors: McCarthy Natalie L. , Baggs James , Wolford Hannah , Kazakova Sophia V. , Kabbani Sarah , Attell Brandon K. , Neuhauser Melinda M. , Walker Lindsey , Yi Sarah H. , Hatfield Kelly M. , Reddy Sujan , Hicks Lauri A.
Published: February 2024

Objective:

The 2014 US National Strategy for Combating Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria (CARB) aimed to reduce inappropriate inpatient antibiotic use by 20% for monitored conditions, such as community-acquired pneumonia (CAP), by 2020. We evaluated annual trends in length of therapy (LOT) in adults hospitalized with uncomplicated CAP from 2013 through 2020.

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective cohort study among adults with a primary diagnosis of bacterial or unspecified pneumonia using International Classification of Diseases Ninth and Tenth Revision codes in MarketScan and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services databases. We included patients with length of stay (LOS) of 2–10 days, discharged home with self-care, and not rehospitalized in the 3 days following discharge. We estimated inpatient LOT based on LOS from the PINC AI Healthcare Database. The total LOT was calculated by summing estimated inpatient LOT and actual postdischarge LOT. We examined trends from 2013 to 2020 in patients with total LOT >7 days, which was considered an indicator of likely excessive LOT.

Results:

There were 44,976 and 400,928 uncomplicated CAP hospitalizations among patients aged 18–64 years and ≥65 years, respectively. From 2013 to 2020, the proportion of patients with total LOT >7 days decreased by 25% (68% to 51%) among patients aged 18–64 years and by 27% (68%–50%) among patients aged ≥65 years.

Conclusions:

Although likely excessive LOT for uncomplicated CAP patients decreased since 2013, the proportion of patients treated with LOT >7 days still exceeded 50% in 2020. Antibiotic stewardship programs should continue to pursue interventions to reduce likely excessive LOT for common infections.
Attitudes toward automation and the demand for policies addressing job loss: the effects of information about trade-offs
Authors: Magistro Beatrice , Loewen Peter , Bonikowski Bart , Borwein Sophie , Lee-Whiting Blake
Published: February 2024

Does providing information about the costs and benefits of automation affect the perceived fairness of a firm's decision to automate or support for government policies addressing automation's labor market consequences? To answer these questions, we use data from vignette and conjoint experiments across four advanced economies (Australia, Canada, the UK, and the US). Our results show that despite people's relatively fixed policy preferences, their evaluation of the fairness of automation—and therefore potentially the issue's political salience—is sensitive to information about its trade-offs, especially information about price changes attributable to automated labor. This suggests that the political impact of automation may depend on how it is framed by the media and political actors.
Trainee-perceived benefits of a virtual temporal bone competition
Authors: Yao Alexander , Richards Emma , Dalton C. Lucy
Published: February 2024

Objective

To assess the perceived benefits of a novel educational approach for otolaryngology trainees: a virtual reality temporal bone simulator drilling competition.

Methods

Regional otolaryngology trainees participated in the competition. Drilling activities using the Voxel-Man TempoSurg simulator were scored by experts. Questionnaires that contained questions covering motivators for attending, perceived learning and enjoyment were sent to participants. Agreement with statements was measured on a 10-point Likert scale (1 = strongly disagree, 10 = strongly agree).

Results

Eighteen trainees participated. The most cited reason for attending was for learning and/or education (61 per cent), with most attendees (72 per cent) believing that competition encourages more reading and/or practice. Seventeen attendees (94 per cent) believed Voxel-Man TempoSurg-based simulation would help to improve intra-operative performance in mastoidectomy (mean 7.83 ± 1.47, p < 0.001) and understanding of anatomy (mean 8.72 ± 1.13, p < 0.001). All participants rated the competition as ‘fun’ and 83 per cent believed the competitive element added to this.

Conclusion

The virtual reality temporal bone competition is a novel educational approach within otolaryngology that was positively received by otolaryngology trainees.
Learning in European Administrative Networks: a process to all or only to a few?
Authors: Soares Ana Carolina
Published: February 2024

Through the pooling and exchange of resources such as expertise and knowledge between network participants, European Administrative Networks (EANs) are expected to play a significant role in enhancing policy learning. Yet, scarce empirical evidence has been presented concerning the learning process taking place within EANs. This paper addresses this gap through the analysis of the Network of the Heads of European Environmental Protection Agencies (EPA Network). Based on a unique survey dataset, social network analysis and exponential random graph models are used to trace the interaction patterns within the network and test which factors shape them. The analysis highlights the relevance of national political factors – i.e. the preferences of national governments and ministries – in shaping the learning processes taking place in the EPA Network. While the network is an important venue for disseminating knowledge between directly and indirectly connected actors, learning processes are mainly limited to like-minded peers.
Mapping advanced practice nurses’ scope of practice, satisfaction, and drivers of role performance
Authors: Beckmann Sonja , Schmid-Mohler Gabriela , Spichiger Elisabeth , Eicher Manuela , Nicca Dunja , Ullmann-Bremi Andrea , Petry Heidi
Published: February 2024

Abstract: Background: Advanced Practice Nurse (APN) roles in Switzerland include Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS), Nurse Practitioner (NP) and blended roles. The variety contributes to unclear profiles and scope of practice. Aim: To describe a) the performance of APN tasks according to Hamric’s competencies, b) job satisfaction, and c) barriers and facilitators to role performance. Methods: Nationwide cross-sectional survey among clinically working APNs. Inclusion criteria: academic degree, role with advanced nursing competency. Analysis of quantitative and qualitative data using inferential statistics and content analysis. Results: Of the 222 APNs, 49% (n = 108) described themselves as CNSs, 37% (n = 81) as working in a blended role, and 15% (n = 33) as NP. APNs provided the greatest proportion of their tasks in the competency direct clinical practice and the least in ethical decision-making. Group comparisons between roles revealed significant differences in the competencies: direct clinical practice, guidance and coaching, leadership, and evidence-based practice. Job satisfaction was high (76%, n = 165), most often described by the category work content/role (e.g., defined scope of practice). The most frequent barrier to role performance was the category scope of practice (e.g., unclear responsibilities); the most frequent facilitator was the category professional recognition (e.g., respect). Conclusion: The study highlights current APN scope of practice and can support the advancement of the role through clinical practice, educational institutions, and research.
Orbital angular momentum-mediated machine learning for high-accuracy mode-feature encoding
Authors: Fang Xinyuan , Hu Xiaonan , Li Baoli , Su Hang , Cheng Ke , Luan Haitao , Gu Min
Published: February 2024

Machine learning with optical neural networks has featured unique advantages of the information processing including high speed, ultrawide bandwidths and low energy consumption because the optical dimensions (time, space, wavelength, and polarization) could be utilized to increase the degree of freedom. However, due to the lack of the capability to extract the information features in the orbital angular momentum (OAM) domain, the theoretically unlimited OAM states have never been exploited to represent the signal of the input/output nodes in the neural network model. Here, we demonstrate OAM-mediated machine learning with an all-optical convolutional neural network (CNN) based on Laguerre-Gaussian (LG) beam modes with diverse diffraction losses. The proposed CNN architecture is composed of a trainable OAM mode-dispersion impulse as a convolutional kernel for feature extraction, and deep-learning diffractive layers as a classifier. The resultant OAM mode-dispersion selectivity can be applied in information mode-feature encoding, leading to an accuracy as high as 97.2% for MNIST database through detecting the energy weighting coefficients of the encoded OAM modes, as well as a resistance to eavesdropping in point-to-point free-space transmission. Moreover, through extending the target encoded modes into multiplexed OAM states, we realize all-optical dimension reduction for anomaly detection with an accuracy of 85%. Our work provides a deep insight to the mechanism of machine learning with spatial modes basis, which can be further utilized to improve the performances of various machine-vision tasks by constructing the unsupervised learning-based auto-encoder.
Boreal–Arctic wetland methane emissions modulated by warming and vegetation activity
Authors: Yuan Kunxiaojia , Li Fa , McNicol Gavin , Chen Min , Hoyt Alison , Knox Sara , Riley William J. , Jackson Robert , Zhu Qing
Published: February 2024

Wetland methane (CH4) emissions over the Boreal–Arctic region are vulnerable to climate change and linked to climate feedbacks, yet understanding of their long-term dynamics remains uncertain. Here, we upscaled and analysed two decades (2002–2021) of Boreal–Arctic wetland CH4 emissions, representing an unprecedented compilation of eddy covariance and chamber observations. We found a robust increasing trend of CH4 emissions (+8.9%) with strong inter-annual variability. The majority of emission increases occurred in early summer (June and July) and were mainly driven by warming (52.3%) and ecosystem productivity (40.7%). Moreover, a 2 °C temperature anomaly in 2016 led to the highest recorded annual CH4 emissions (22.3 Tg CH4 yr−1) over this region, driven primarily by high emissions over Western Siberian lowlands. However, current-generation models from the Global Carbon Project failed to capture the emission magnitude and trend, and may bias the estimates in future wetland CH4 emission driven by amplified Boreal–Arctic warming and greening.
1H NMR metabolomics insights into comparative diabesity in male and female zebrafish and the antidiabetic activity of DL-limonene
Authors: Benchoula Khaled , Serpell Christopher J. , Mediani Ahmed , Albogami Abdulaziz , Misnan Norazlan Mohmad , Ismail Nor Hadiani , Parhar Ishwar S. , Ogawa Satoshi , Hwa Wong Eng
Published: February 2024

Zebrafish have been utilized for many years as a model animal for pharmacological studies on diabetes and obesity. High-fat diet (HFD), streptozotocin and alloxan injection, and glucose immersion have all been used to induce diabetes and obesity in zebrafish. Currently, studies commonly used both male and female zebrafish, which may influence the outcomes since male and female zebrafish are biologically different. This study was designed to investigate the difference between the metabolites of male and female diabetic zebrafish, using limonene – a natural product which has shown several promising results in vitro and in vivo in treating diabetes and obesity—and provide new insights into how endogenous metabolites change following limonene treatment. Using HFD-fed male and female zebrafish, we were able to develop an animal model of T2D and identify several endogenous metabolites that might be used as diagnostic biomarkers for diabetes. The endogenous metabolites in males and females were different, even though both genders had high blood glucose levels and a high BMI. Treatment with limonene prevented high blood glucose levels and improved in diabesity zebrafish by limonene, through reversal of the metabolic changes caused by HFD in both genders. In addition, limonene was able to reverse the elevated expression of AKT during HFD.
Noval soliton solution, sensitivity and stability analysis to the fractional gKdV-ZK equation
Authors: Shakeel Muhammad , Zafar Asim , Alameri Abdu , Junaid U Rehman Muhammad , Awrejcewicz Jan , Umer Muhammad , Zahid Muhammad , Sooppy Nisar Kottakkaran
Published: February 2024

This work examines the fractional generalized Korteweg-de-Vries-Zakharov-Kuznetsov equation (gKdV-ZKe) by utilizing three well-known analytical methods, the modified $$\left( \frac{G^{'}}{G^2}\right)$$

G

′

G
2

-expansion method, $$\left( \frac{1}{G^{'}}\right)$$

1

G

′

-expansion method and the Kudryashov method. The gKdV-ZK equation is a nonlinear model describing the influence of magnetic field on weak ion-acoustic waves in plasma made up of cool and hot electrons. The kink, singular, anti-kink, periodic, and bright soliton solutions are observed. The effect of the fractional parameter on wave shapes have been analyzed by displaying various graphs for fractional-order values of $$\beta$$
β
. In addition, we utilize the Hamiltonian property to observe the stability of the attained solution and Galilean transformation for sensitivity analysis. The suggested methods can also be utilized to evaluate the nonlinear models that are being developed in a variety of scientific and technological fields, such as plasma physics. Findings show the effectiveness simplicity, and generalizability of the chosen computational approach, even when applied to complex models.
Dual anti-HER2/EGFR inhibition synergistically increases therapeutic effects and alters tumor oxygenation in HNSCC
Authors: Song Patrick N. , Lynch Shannon E. , DeMellier Chloe T. , Mansur Ameer , Gallegos Carlos A. , Wright Brian D. , Hartman Yolanda E. , Minton Laura E. , Lapi Suzanne E. , Warram Jason M. , Sorace Anna G.
Published: February 2024

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), and hypoxia are associated with radioresistance. The goal of this study is to study the synergy of anti-HER2, trastuzumab, and anti-EGFR, cetuximab, and characterize the tumor microenvironment components that may lead to increased radiation sensitivity with dual anti-HER2/EGFR therapy in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Positron emission tomography (PET) imaging ([89Zr]-panitumumab and [89Zr]-pertuzumab) was used to characterize EGFR and HER2 in HNSCC cell line tumors. HNSCC cells were treated with trastuzumab, cetuximab, or combination followed by radiation to assess for viability and radiosensitivity (colony forming assay, immunofluorescence, and flow cytometry). In vivo, [18F]-FMISO-PET imaging was used to quantify changes in oxygenation during treatment. Bliss Test of Synergy was used to identify combination treatment synergy. Quantifying EGFR and HER2 receptor expression revealed a 50% increase in heterogeneity of HER2 relative to EGFR. In vitro, dual trastuzumab-cetuximab therapy shows significant decreases in DNA damage response and increased response to radiation therapy (p < 0.05). In vivo, tumors treated with dual anti-HER2/EGFR demonstrated decreased tumor hypoxia, when compared to single agent therapies. Dual trastuzumab-cetuximab demonstrates synergy and can affect tumor oxygenation in HNSCC. Combination trastuzumab-cetuximab modulates the tumor microenvironment through reductions in tumor hypoxia and induces sustained treatment synergy.
Single-cell analysis reveals the spatial-temporal expression of genes associated with esophageal malformations
Authors: Maj Carlo , Eberts Antonia , Schumacher Johannes , Dasmeh Pouria
Published: February 2024

Understanding the molecular mechanisms of congenital diseases is challenging due to their occurrence within specific developmental stages. Esophageal malformations are examples of such conditions, characterized by abnormalities in the development of esophagus during embryogenesis. These developmental malformations encompass a range of anomalies, including esophageal atresia, and tracheoesophageal fistula. Here, we investigated the preferential expression of 29 genes that are implicated in such malformations and their immediate interactome (a total of 67 genes). We conducted our analyses across several single-cell atlases of embryonic development, encompassing approximately 150,000 cells from the mouse foregut, 180,000 cells from human embryos, and 500,000 cells from 24 human organs. Our study, spanning diverse mesodermal and endodermal cell populations and early developmental stages, shows that the genes associated with esophageal malformations show their highest cell-type specific expression in lateral plate mesoderm cells and at the developmental stage of E8.75–E9.0 days. In human embryos, these genes show a significant cell-type specific expression among subpopulations of epithelial cells, fibroblasts and progenitor cells including basal cells. Notably, members of the forkhead-box family of transcription factors, namely FOXF1, FOXC1, and FOXD1, as well as the SRY-box transcription factor, SOX2, demonstrate the most significant preferential expression in both mouse and human embryos. Overall, our findings provide insights into the temporal and cellular contexts contributing to esophageal malformations.
The Temozolomide–Doxorubicin paradox in Glioblastoma in vitro–in silico preclinical drug-screening
Authors: Oraiopoulou Mariam-Eleni , Tzamali Eleftheria , Psycharakis Stylianos E. , Tzedakis Georgios , Makatounakis Takis , Manolitsi Katina , Drakos Elias , Vakis Antonis F. , Zacharakis Giannis , Papamatheakis Joseph , Sakkalis Vangelis
Published: February 2024

Adjuvant Temozolomide is considered the front-line Glioblastoma chemotherapeutic treatment; yet not all patients respond. Latest trends in clinical trials usually refer to Doxorubicin; yet it can lead to severe side-effects if administered in high doses. While Glioblastoma prognosis remains poor, little is known about the combination of the two chemotherapeutics. Patient-derived spheroids were generated and treated with a range of Temozolomide/Doxorubicin concentrations either as monotherapy or in combination. Optical microscopy was used to monitor the growth pattern and cell death. Based on the monotherapy experiments, we developed a probabilistic mathematical framework in order to describe the drug-induced effect at the single-cell level and simulate drug doses in combination assuming probabilistic independence. Doxorubicin was found to be effective in doses even four orders of magnitude less than Temozolomide in monotherapy. The combination therapy doses tested in vitro were able to lead to irreversible growth inhibition at doses where monotherapy resulted in relapse. In our simulations, we assumed both drugs are anti-mitotic; Temozolomide has a growth-arrest effect, while Doxorubicin is able to cumulatively cause necrosis. Interestingly, under no mechanistic synergy assumption, the in silico predictions underestimate the in vitro results. In silico models allow the exploration of a variety of potential underlying hypotheses. The simulated-biological discrepancy at certain doses indicates a supra-additive response when both drugs are combined. Our results suggest a Temozolomide–Doxorubicin dual chemotherapeutic scheme to both disable proliferation and increase cytotoxicity against Glioblastoma.
Functional neuroplasticity of facilitation and interference effects on inhibitory control following 3-month physical exercise in aging
Authors: Wu Hong-Yi , Huang Chih-Mao , Hsu Ai-Ling , Chen Chiao-Nan , Wu Changwei W. , Chen Jyh-Horng
Published: February 2024

Preservation of executive function, like inhibition, closely links to the quality of life in senior adults. Although neuroimaging literature has shown enhanced inhibitory function followed by aerobic exercise, current evidence implies inconsistent neuroplasticity patterns along different time durations of exercise. Hence, we conducted a 12-week exercise intervention on 12 young and 14 senior volunteers and repeatedly measured the inhibitory functionality of distinct aspects (facilitation and interference effects) using the numerical Stroop task and functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging. Results showcased improved accuracy and reduced reaction times (RT) after 12-week exercise, attributed to frontoparietal and default mode network effects. In young adults, the first phase (0 to six weeks) exercise increased the activation of the right superior medial frontal gyrus, associated with reduced RT in interference, but in the second intervention phase (six to twelve weeks), the decreased activation of the left superior medial frontal gyrus positively correlated with reduced RT in facilitation. In senior adults, the first six-week intervention led to reduced activations of the inferior frontal gyrus, inferior parietal gyrus, and default mode network regions, associated with the reduced RT in interference. Still, in the second intervention phase, only the visual area exhibited increased activity, associated with reduced RT in interference. Except for the distinctive brain plasticity between the two phases of exercise intervention, the between-group comparison also presented that the old group gained more cognitive benefits within the first six weeks of exercise intervention; however, the cognitive improvements in the young group occurred after six weeks of intervention. Limited by the sample size, these preliminary findings corroborated the benefits of aerobic exercise on the inhibitory functions, implying an age × exercise interaction on the brain plasticity for both facilitation and interference.
Standardization of the protocol for oral cavity examination and collecting of the biological samples for microbiome research using the next-generation sequencing (NGS): own experience with the COVID-19 patients
Authors: Brzychczy-Sroka Barbara , Talaga-Ćwiertnia Katarzyna , Sroka-Oleksiak Agnieszka , Gurgul Artur , Zarzecka-Francica Elżbieta , Ostrowski Wojciech , Kąkol Janusz , Drożdż Kamil , Brzychczy-Włoch Monika , Zarzecka Joanna
Published: February 2024

To date, publications have shown that compositions of oral microbiota differ depending on their habitats (e.g. tongue, tonsils, pharynx). The absence of set standards for the choice of the areas and conditions of material collection makes the oral microbiome one of the most difficult environments for a comparative analysis with other researchers, which is a meaningful limitation during an assessment of the potential effects of microorganisms as biomarkers in the courses of various human diseases. Therefore, standardisation of basic conditions of a dental examination and collection of material for the next generation sequencing (NGS) is worth attempting. The standardisation of the dental exam and collection of the clinical materials: saliva, swab from the tongue ridge, hard palate, palatine tonsils and oropharynx, supragingival plaque and subgingival plaque. Protocol involved the patients (n = 60), assigned to 3 groups: I—COVID-19 convalescents who received antibiotics, n = 17, II—COVID-19 convalescents, n = 23 and III—healthy individuals, n = 20. The collected biological samples were used to conduct NGS (16S rRNA). The conditions of patient preparation for collecting biological materials as well as the schedule of dental examination, were proposed. Based on the research conducted, we have indicated the dental indicators that best differentiate the group of COVID-19 patients (groups I and II) from healthy people (group III). These include the DMFT, D and BOP indices. The use of alpha and beta diversity analysis provided an overall insight into the diversity of microbial communities between specific niches and patient groups. The most different diversity between the studied group of patients (group II) and healthy people (group III) was noted in relation to the supragingival plaque. The order of activities during the dental exam as well as while collecting and securing clinical materials is particularly important to avoid technical errors and material contamination which may result in erroneous conclusions from the analyses of the results of sensitive tests such as the NGS. It has been shown that the dental indices: DMFT, D number, PI and BOP are the best prognostic parameters to assess the oral health. Based on beta diversity the most sensitive niche and susceptible to changes in the composition of the microbiota is the supragingival plaque. The procedures developed by our team can be applied as ready-to-use forms in studies conducted by other researchers.
A novel strategy for partial purification of alkane hydroxylase from P. chrysogenum SNP5 through reconstituting its native membrane into liposome
Authors: Das Satyapriy , Negi Sangeeta
Published: February 2024

Integral proteins or enzymes are still challenging to purify into their native state because of their need for an amphipathic environment and cofactors. Alkane hydroxylase (AlkB) is a membrane-bound enzyme that catalyzes the hydroxylation of a range of alkanes that have a broad spectrum of applications. In the current study, a novel approach has been explored for partial purification of alkane hydroxylase (AlkB) in its native state through restructuring the lipid bilayer of Penicilliumchrysogenum SNP5 into a liposome to extend the native and protective environment to AlkB enzyme. Three different methods i.e., reverse-phase evaporation method (RPEM), detergent-based method (DBM), and ethanol injection method (EIM) have been used for reconstituting its native membrane into liposome. On characterizing liposomes through fluorescence imaging, AFM, and particle size analysis, the reverse-phase evaporation method gave the best results based on the size distribution (i.e., 100–300 nm), the morphology of liposomes, and maximum AlkB specific activity (i.e., 140.68 U/mg). The maximum reconstitution efficiency of 29.48% was observed in RPEM followed by 17.3% in DBM and 12.3% in EIM. On the characterization of the purified AlkB, the molecular weight was measured of 44.6 KDa and the thermostability of liposomes synthesized with the RPEM method was obtained maximum at 55 °C. This approach may open a new strategy for the purification of integral enzymes/proteins in their native state in the field of protein purification and its applications in diversified industries.
scRNA-seq revealed high stemness epithelial malignant cell clusters and prognostic models of lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Lin GuoYong , Gao ZhiSen , Wu Shun , Zheng JianPing , Guo XiangQiong , Zheng XiaoHong , Chen RunNan
Published: February 2024

Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is one of the sole causes of death in lung cancer patients. This study combined with single-cell RNA-seq analysis to identify tumor stem-related prognostic models to predict the prognosis of lung adenocarcinoma, chemotherapy agents, and immunotherapy efficacy. mRNA expression-based stemness index (mRNAsi) was determined by One Class Linear Regression (OCLR). Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were detected by limma package. Single-cell RNA-seq analysis in GSE123902 dataset was performed using Seurat package. Weighted Co-Expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) was built by rms package. Cell differentiation ability was determined by CytoTRACE. Cell communication analysis was performed by CellCall and CellChat package. Prognosis model was constructed by 10 machine learning and 101 combinations. Drug predictive analysis was conducted by pRRophetic package. Immune microenvironment landscape was determined by ESTIMATE, MCP-Counter, ssGSEA analysis. Tumor samples have higher mRNAsi, and the high mRNAsi group presents a worse prognosis. Turquoise module was highly correlated with mRNAsi in TCGA-LUAD dataset. scRNA analysis showed that 22 epithelial cell clusters were obtained, and higher CSCs malignant epithelial cells have more complex cellular communication with other cells and presented dedifferentiation phenomenon. Cellular senescence and Hippo signaling pathway are the major difference pathways between high- and low CSCs malignant epithelial cells. The pseudo-temporal analysis shows that cluster1, 2, high CSC epithelial cells, are concentrated at the end of the differentiation trajectory. Finally, 13 genes were obtained by intersecting genes in turquoise module, Top200 genes in hdWGCNA, DEGs in high- and low- mRNAsi group as well as DEGs in tumor samples vs. normal group. Among 101 prognostic models, average c-index (0.71) was highest in CoxBoost + RSF model. The high-risk group samples had immunosuppressive status, higher tumor malignancy and low benefit from immunotherapy. This work found that malignant tumors and malignant epithelial cells have high CSC characteristics, and identified a model that could predict the prognosis, immune microenvironment, and immunotherapy of LUAD, based on CSC-related genes. These results provided reference value for the clinical diagnosis and treatment of LUAD.
A pilot study for risk stratification of ventricular tachyarrhythmia in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy with routine echocardiography parameters
Authors: Derda Anselm A. , Abelmann Malin , Sieweke Jan-Thorben , Waleczek Florian J. G. , Weber Natalie , Zehrfeld Nadine , Bär Christian , Duncker David , Bavendiek Udo , Berliner Dominik , Bauersachs Johann , Sonnenschein Kristina , Thum Thomas
Published: February 2024

Ventricular tachyarrhythmia (VTA) are frequent arrhythmias in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Representing a major risk factor for sudden cardiac death, Holter ECG at first clinical presentation appears insufficient. This study aims to investigate the ability of routinely obtained parameters associated with myocardial remodeling in stratifying for VTA in HCM. In this monocentric analysis, patients with HCM underwent 12-channel electrocardiography and echocardiography, including tissue doppler imaging. The study’s primary endpoint was the documentation of non-sustained and sustained ventricular tachycardia—summarized as ventricular tachyarrhythmias (VTA) on Holter ECG or active devices. The occurrence of VTA was exploratory. Based on our collective, we developed a risk model regarding VTA. Of 140 HCM patients, 38 (27.1%) had an episode of VTA. Patients with VTA were likelier to have a history of atrial fibrillation (p < 0.001), a thicker interventricular septum (p < 0.001) and lower peak systolic mitral annular velocity (p < 0.001). The parameters were independently associated with endpoint in univariate and multivariate logistic regression. We created a logistic equation and calculated a cut-off value. The resulting ROC curve revealed a discriminative ability with AUC of 0.80 (sensitivity, 63%; specificity, 88%). Our risk model including these widely available parameters is able to distinguish low and high-risk of VTA in patients with HCM.
Cyclosporine A in hospitalized COVID-19 pneumonia patients to prevent the development of interstitial lung disease: a pilot randomized clinical trial
Authors: Cobo-Ibáñez Tatiana , Mora Ortega Gemma , Sánchez-Piedra Carlos , Serralta-San Martín Gonzalo , Thuissard-Vasallo Israel J. , Lores Gutiérrez Vanesa , Soler Rangel Llanos , García Yubero Cristina , Esteban-Vázquez Ana , López-Aspiroz Elena , Andreu Vázquez Cristina , Toboso Inmaculada , Martínez Alonso de Armiño Blanca María , Olivares Alviso Rocío Alejandra , Calderón Nieto Rocío , Yañez Cecilia , Zakhour González Marlín Alejandra , Sainz Sánchez Tatiana , Arroyo de la Torre Silvia , Del Amo Del Arco Nazaret , Gómez-Cerezo Jorge Francisco , Ramírez Prieto Teresa , Martínez Hernández Alicia , Muñoz-Fernández Santiago
Published: February 2024

Post-COVID-19 interstitial lung disease (ILD) is a new entity that frequently causes pulmonary fibrosis and can become chronic. We performed a single-center parallel-group open-label pilot randomized clinical trial to investigate the efficacy and safety of cyclosporine A (CsA) in the development of ILD in the medium term among patients hospitalized with COVID-19 pneumonia. Patients were randomized 1:1 to receive CsA plus standard of care or standard of care alone. The primary composite outcome was the percentage of patients without ILD 3 months after diagnosis of pneumonia and not requiring invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) (response without requiring IMV). The key secondary composite outcomes were the percentage of patients who achieve a response requiring IMV or irrespective of the need for IMV, and adverse events. A total of 33 patients received at least one dose of CsA plus standard of care (n = 17) or standard of care alone (n = 16). No differences were found between the groups in the percentage of patients who achieved a response without requiring IMV or a response requiring IMV. A higher percentage of patients achieved a response irrespective of the need for IMV in the CsA plus standard of care group although the RR was almost significant 2.833 (95% CI, 0.908–8.840; p = 0.057). No differences were found between the groups for adverse events. In hospitalized patients with COVID-19 pneumonia, we were unable to demonstrate that CsA achieved a significant effect in preventing the development of ILD. (EU Clinical Trials Register; EudraCT Number: 2020-002123-11; registration date: 08/05/2020).
Synthesis, structural, optical, and thermal properties of LaFeO3/Poly(methyl methacrylate)/Poly(vinyl acetate) nanocomposites for radiation shielding
Authors: Khalifa M. , El Sayed Adel M. , Kassem Said M. , Tarek E.
Published: February 2024

This work is an attempt to develop flexible radiation shielding based on a blend of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA)/polyvinyl acetate (PVAc) and LaFeO3 nanoparticles (NPs). LaFeO3 and LaFeO3/PMMA/PVAc were made using simple chemical techniques. A high-resolution transmission electron microscope (HR-TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) showed that well-crystallized LaFeO3 NPs with particles 79 nm in size and an orthorhombic shape were obtained. In addition, XRD confirmed the existence of PMMA, PVAc, and LaFeO3 in the nanocomposite films. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) confirmed that the LaFeO3 NPs and the reactive functional groups in the blend interacted with each other. Field emission-scan electron microscope (FE-SEM) analysis showed that PMMA and PVAc form a homogenous blend and that the LaFeO3 NPs were spread out inside and on the blend surface. The samples showed transmittance in the range of 30–74% and a small extinction coefficient (≤ 0.08). The samples exhibited a dual-band gap structure, and the direct (indirect) band gap shrank from 5.1 to 4.7 eV (4.9 to 4.4 eV). The thermal analyses showed that the samples are thermally stable up to 260 °C. The Phy-X/PSD software was used to figure out the theoretical gamma-ray attenuation parameters, such as the mass attenuation coefficient, the mean free path, and the half-value layer, for different PMMA/PVAc + x% LaFeO3 composites. It is demonstrated that the PMMA/PVAc + 10 wt% LaFeO3 sample exhibits much better shielding effectiveness than PMMA/PVAc, and hence it is suitable for protecting against radiation.
Carbon emissions of power transmission and transformation projects in the whole life cycle for smart sustainable energy systems
Authors: Wang Zhihui , Hu Long , Huang Xiaojia , Tan Jieren , Ye Kaihui
Published: February 2024

The study investigates the optimization of life cycle carbon emissions in smart sustainable energy systems through power transformation and transmission project power load predictions. Firstly, a multi-task learning-based short-term user load forecasting technique is developed, where the power load curves of multiple residential customers are grouped and classified using the K-means clustering method. Additionally, the Bidirectional Long Short-Term Memory (BiLSTM) technique is introduced to anticipate the power load intelligently. Secondly, a life cycle carbon emission assessment model for the power transmission and transformation project (PTTP) is constructed based on the life cycle assessment (LCA) method, which divides the project's life cycle into four stages: production, installation and construction, operation and maintenance, and demolition. Finally, an experimental evaluation of this model is conducted. The results demonstrate that compared with the baseline model Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM), this model achieves a significantly lower average Mean Absolute Error (MAE) at 3.62% while achieving significantly higher accuracy in power load forecasting at 94.34%. A comprehensive examination of carbon emissions across all four phases reveals that overall carbon emissions are highest during the operation and maintenance stage followed by the equipment production stage and installation/construction stage, with the lowest overall carbon emissions observed. Hence, this study endeavors to forecast power load demand with precision and identify the principal determinants of carbon emissions in power engineering. By discerning and managing these key factors, an optimal, energy-efficient intelligent power load scheme can be derived.
Mouth breathing reduces oral function in adolescence
Authors: Masutomi Yukako , Goto Takaharu , Ichikawa Tetsuo
Published: February 2024

Although humans breathe naturally through the nostrils, mouth breathing in children has recently gathered attention. In this study, we hypothesized that tongue function and its related maxillofacial morphology would affect breathing in adolescence. To verify this hypothesis, we examined the association between breathing patterns, including mouth and nasal breathing; oral functions, including tongue motor function; and craniofacial morphology during adolescence, which has not been investigated till date. C3-H, which indicates the anteroposterior position of the hyoid bone in relation to the third cervical vertebra, was significantly smaller in mouth-breathers than in nasal-breathers. Lip-closing force, tongue pressure, and masticatory efficiency were lower in the order of nasal-breathers, oronasal-breathers, and mouth-breathers, and the values for mouth-breathers were significantly lower than those for nasal-breathers. Tongue pressure alone was identified as a significant independent variable, with an odds ratio of 1.063 (95% confidence interval, 1.006–1.123; p < 0.05). Our results indicate a relationship between mouth breathing and the lip-closing force, tongue pressure, and masticatory efficiency, as well as the significance of tongue pressure on mouth breathing in adolescents. The findings highlight the importance of clarifying the pathophysiology of mouth breathing and its underlying causes.
Silver nanoparticle functionalized by glutamine and conjugated with thiosemicarbazide induces apoptosis in colon cancer cell line
Authors: Taati Hadi , Sangani Helia , Davoudi Arash , Safabakhsh Kouchesfahani Samira , Hedayati Mohammad , Tarashandeh Hemmati Sana , Ghasemipour Taraneh , Aghajani Shahrzad , Farah Andooz Mahan , Amanollahi Maryam , Kalavari Fakhrieh , Salehzadeh Ali
Published: February 2024

The high mortality rate of colon cancer indicates the insufficient efficacy of current chemotherapy. Thus, the discussion on engineered metal nanoparticles in the treatment of the disease has been considered. In this study, silver nanoparticles were functionalized with glutamine and conjugated with thiosemiccarbazide. Then, anticancer mechanism of Ag@Gln-TSC NPs in a colon cancer cell line (SW480) was investigated. Characterizing Ag@Gln-TSC NPs by FT-IR, XRD, EDS-mapping, DLS, zeta potential, and SEM and TEM microscopy revealed that the Ag@Gln-TSC NPs were correctly synthesized, the particles were spherical, with surface charge of − 27.3 mV, high thermal stability and low agglomeration level. Using MTT assay we found that Ag@Gln-TSC NPs were significantly more toxic for colon cancer cells than normal fibroblast cells with IC50 of 88 and 186 µg/mL, respectively. Flow cytometry analysis showed that treating colon cancer cells with Ag@Gln-TSC NPs leads to a considerable increase in the frequency of apoptotic cells (85.9% of the cells) and increased cell cycle arrest at the S phase. Also, several apoptotic features, including hyperactivity of caspase-3 (5.15 folds), increased expression of CASP8 gene (3.8 folds), and apoptotic nuclear alterations were noticed in the nanoparticle treated cells. Furthermore, treating colon cancer cells with Ag@Gln-TSC NPs caused significant down-regulation of the HULC Lnc-RNA and PPFIA4 oncogene by 0.3 and 0.6 folds, respectively. Overall, this work showed that Ag@Gln-TSC NPs can effectively inhibit colon cancer cells through the activation of apoptotic pathways, a feature that can be considered more in studies in the field of colon cancer treatment.
Potentially compromised systemic and local lactate metabolic balance in glaucoma, which could increase retinal glucose and glutamate concentrations
Authors: Arai-Okuda Mina , Murai Yusuke , Maeda Hidetaka , Kanamori Akiyasu , Miki Takako , Naito Tomoko , Sugihara Kazunobu , Kono Michihiro , Tanito Masaki , Onoe Hiromitsu , Hirooka Kazuyuki , Kiuchi Yoshiaki , Shinohara Masakazu , Kusuhara Sentaro , Mori Sotaro , Ueda Kaori , Sakamoto Mari , Yamada-Nakanishi Yuko , Nakamura Makoto
Published: February 2024

To investigate the association between lactate metabolism and glaucoma, we conducted a multi-institutional cross-sectional clinical study and a retinal metabolomic analysis of mice with elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) induced by intracameral microbead injection. We compared lactate concentrations in serum and aqueous humor in age-matched 64 patients each with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and cataract. Neither serum nor aqueous humor lactate concentrations differed between the two groups. Multiple regression analysis revealed that only body mass index showed a significant positive correlation with serum and aqueous humor lactate concentration in POAG patients (rs = 0.376, P = 0.002, and rs = 0.333, P = 0.007, respectively), but not in cataract patients. l-Lactic acid was one of the most abundantly detected metabolites in mouse retinas with gas chromatography and mass spectrometry, but there were no significant differences among control, 2-week, and 4-week IOP elevation groups. After 4 weeks of elevated IOP, d-glucose and l-glutamic acid ranked as the top two for a change in raised concentration, roughly sevenfold and threefold, respectively (ANOVA, P = 0.004; Tukey–Kramer, P < 0.05). Glaucoma may disrupt the systemic and intraocular lactate metabolic homeostasis, with a compensatory rise in glucose and glutamate in the retina.
Loss of noggin1, a classic embryonic inducer gene, in elasmobranchs
Authors: Ermakova Galina V. , Meyntser Irina V. , Zaraisky Andrey G. , Bayramov Andrey V.
Published: February 2024

Secreted proteins of the Noggin family serve as pivotal regulators of early development and cell differentiation in all multicellular animals, including vertebrates. Noggin1 was identified first among all Noggins. Moreover, it was described as the first known embryonic inducer specifically secreted by the Spemann organizer and capable of inducing a secondary body axis when expressed ectopically. In the classical default model of neural induction, Noggin1 is presented as an antagonist of BMP signalling, playing a role as a neural inducer. Additionally, Noggin1 is involved in the dorsalization of embryonic mesoderm and later controls the differentiation of various tissues, including muscles, bones, and neural crest derivatives. Hitherto, noggin1 was found in all studied vertebrates. Here, we report the loss of noggin1 in elasmobranchs (sharks, rays and skates), which is a unique case among vertebrates. noggin2 and noggin4 retained in this group and studied in the embryos of the grey bamboo shark Chiloscyllium griseum revealed similarities in expression patterns and functional properties with their orthologues described in other vertebrates. The loss of noggin1 in elasmobranchs may be associated with histological features of the formation of their unique internal cartilaginous skeleton, although additional research is required to establish functional connections between these events.