bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Heat Treatment on the Chemical Composition and Microstructure of Cupressus funebris Endl. Wood
Authors: Lyu Jianhua , Wang Jialei , Chen Ming
Published: August 2024

The effects of heat treatment on Cupressus funebris Endl. wood were examined under different combinations of temperature, time, and pressure. The chemical composition, crystallinity, and microstructure of heat-treated wood flour and specimens were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Vacuum heat treatment led to changes in the functional groups and microstructure of C. funebris wood, and the relative lignin content decreased with increasing treatment temperature, which was significant at lower negative pressures. Cellulose crystallinity showed a change rule of first increasing and then decreasing throughout the heat treatment range, and the relative crystallinity ranged from 102.46% to 116.39%. The cellulose treated at 120 °C for 5 h at 0.02 MPa had the highest crystallinity of 44.65%. These results indicate that although heat treatment can improve cellulose crystallinity, very high temperatures can lead to decreased crystallinity. The morphology and structure of the cell wall remained stable throughout the heat treatment range; however, at elevated temperatures, slight deformation occurred, along with rupture of the intercellular layer.
Assessment of Trees’ Structural Defects via Hybrid Deep Learning Methods Used in Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Observations
Authors: Qiu Qiwen , Lau Denvid
Published: August 2024

Trees’ structural defects are responsible for the reduction in forest product quality and the accident of tree collapse under extreme environmental conditions. Although the manual view inspection for assessing tree health condition is reliable, it is inefficient in discriminating, locating, and quantifying the defects with various features (i.e., crack and hole). There is a general need for investigation of efficient ways to assess these defects to enhance the sustainability of trees. In this study, the deep learning algorithms of lightweight You Only Look Once (YOLO) and encoder-decoder network named DeepLabv3+ are combined in unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) observations to evaluate trees’ structural defects. Experimentally, we found that the state-of-the-art detector YOLOv7-tiny offers real-time (i.e., 50–60 fps) and long-range sensing (i.e., 5 m) of tree defects but has limited capacity to acquire the patterns of defects at the millimeter scale. To address this limitation, we further utilized DeepLabv3+ cascaded with different network architectures of ResNet18, ResNet50, Xception, and MobileNetv2 to obtain the actual morphology of defects through close-range and pixel-wise image semantic segmentation. Moreover, the proposed hybrid scheme YOLOv7-tiny_DeepLabv3+_UAV assesses tree’s defect size with an averaged accuracy of 92.62% (±6%).
Study on the Natural Smoke Exhaust Performance of Board-Coupled Vertical Shaft in High-Altitude Tunnel Fires
Authors: Gao Zihe , Zhao Pengju , Wu Zhaoguo , Cai Jiajun , Li Linjie
Published: August 2024

Vertical shaft natural ventilation is a common smoke exhaust method in highway tunnel fires. This study investigated the vertical shaft natural smoke exhaust work in highway tunnel fires with the effect of multiple factors through numerical simulation. Using the analysis of the flow field of smoke in nearby areas of the vertical shaft and the quantitative calculation of the gas exhausted through the vertical shaft, considering the impact of shaft division and board height, an optimal vertical shaft arrangement was proposed, and the working conditions of this arrangement in low-pressure environments were discussed. The results show that dividing a single large vertical shaft into multiple small vertical shafts and appropriately adjusting the board height can reduce the incidence of vertical shaft plug holes and significantly enhance the vertical shaft smoke exhaust performance. Meanwhile, the board-coupled shaft (BCS) has excellent working ability in low-pressure environments, and when pressure drops, smoke exhaust efficiency will improve. This research offers a foundation and reference value for improving the vertical shaft smoke exhaust system in highway tunnels.
Investigating LiDAR Sensor Accuracy for V2V and V2P Conflict Detection at Signalized Intersections
Authors: Ansariyar Alireza , Jeihani Mansoureh
Published: August 2024

This paper examined the accuracy of six installed LiDAR sensors at six different signalized intersections in Trois-Rivières City, Quebec, Canada. At each intersection, the crucial leading and following movements that cause vehicle–vehicle (V2V) and vehicle–pedestrian (V2P) conflicts were identified, and the LiDAR results were compared to crash reports recorded by police, insurance companies, and other reliable resources. Furthermore, the intersection crash rates were calculated based on the daily entering vehicle traffic and the frequency of crashes at each intersection. Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) were utilized over 970,000 V2V and V2P conflicts based on the post encroachment time (PET) and time-to-collision (TTC) safety assessment measures. Bayesian models were used to assess the relationships between different intersection characteristics and the occurrence of conflicts, providing insights into the factors influencing V2V and V2P conflict occurrences. Additionally, a developed image-processing algorithm was utilized to examine the conflicts’ trajectories. The intersections’ crash rates indicated that safety considerations should be implemented at intersections #3, #6, #4, #1, #5, and #2, respectively. Additionally, intersections #6, #4, and #3 were the intersections with the highest rates of vehicle–pedestrian conflicts. Analysis revealed the intricate nature of vehicle and pedestrian interactions, demonstrating the potential of LiDAR sensors in discerning conflict-prone areas at intersections.
Encapsulation of HRP-Immobilized Silica Particles into Hollow-Type Spherical Bacterial Cellulose Gel: A Novel Approach for Enzyme Reactions within Cellulose Gel Capsules
Authors: Hoshi Toru , Suzuki Masashige , Aoyagi Takao
Published: August 2024

We revealed that the encapsulation of enzyme-immobilized silica particles in hollow-type spherical bacterial cellulose (HSBC) gels enables the use of the inside of HSBC gels as a reaction field. The encapsulation of horseradish peroxidase (HRP)-immobilized silica particles (Si-HRPs, particle size: 40–50 μm) within HSBC gels was performed by using a BC gelatinous membrane produced at the interface between Komagataeibacter xylinus suspension attached onto an alginate gel containing Si-HRPs and silicone oil. After the biosynthesis of the BC gelatinous membrane, formed from cellulose nanofiber networks, the alginate gel was removed via immersion in a phosphate-buffered solution. Si-HRP encapsulated HSBC gels were reproducibly produced using our method with a yield of over 90%. The pore size of the network structure of the BC gelatinous membrane was less than 1 μm, which is significantly smaller than the encapsulated Si-HRPs. Consequently, the encapsulated Si-HRPs could neither pass through the BC gelatinous membrane nor leak from the interior cavity of the HSBC gel. The activity of the encapsulated HRPs was detected using the 3,3′,5,5′-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB)-H2O2 system, demonstrating that this method can encapsulate the enzyme without inactivation. Since HSBC gels are composed of a network structure of biocompatible cellulose nanofibers, immune cells cannot enter the hollow interior, thus, the enzyme-immobilized particles encapsulated inside the HSBC gel are protected from immune-cell attacks. The encapsulation technique demonstrated in this study is expected to facilitate the delivery of enzymes and catalysts that are not originally present in the in vivo environment.
In Cahoots with Neo-Indigenism
Authors: Haley Brian D.
Published: August 2024

Academia’s support for neo-indigenes is a significant component of their professional success. I describe how this support operates, drawing a model of cahooting from Edward Dolnick’s analysis of art forgery in The Forger’s Spell. Cahooting reflects the importance of social relationships to the construction of perceived truth and virtue. It corrupts academia at multiple levels through these relationships, undermining the pursuit of truth and goals of equity and inclusion.
A Genotype/Phenotype Study of KDM5B-Associated Disorders Suggests a Pathogenic Effect of Dominantly Inherited Missense Variants
Authors: Borroto Maria Carla , Michaud Coralie , Hudon Chloé , Agrawal Pankaj B. , Agre Katherine , Applegate Carolyn D. , Beggs Alan H. , Bjornsson Hans T. , Callewaert Bert , Chen Mei-Jan , Curry Cynthia , Devinsky Orrin , Dudding-Byth Tracy , Fagan Kelly , Finnila Candice R. , Gavrilova Ralitza , Genetti Casie A. , Hiatt Susan M. , Hildebrandt Friedhelm , Wojcik Monica H. , Kleefstra Tjitske , Kolvenbach Caroline M. , Korf Bruce R. , Kruszka Paul , Li Hong , Litwin Jessica , Marcadier Julien , Platzer Konrad , Blackburn Patrick R. , Reijnders Margot R. F. , Reutter Heiko , Schanze Ina , Shieh Joseph T. , Stevens Cathy A. , Valivullah Zaheer , van den Boogaard Marie-José , Klee Eric W. , Campeau Philippe M.
Published: August 2024

Bi-allelic disruptive variants (nonsense, frameshift, and splicing variants) in KDM5B have been identified as causative for autosomal recessive intellectual developmental disorder type 65. In contrast, dominant variants, usually disruptive as well, have been more difficult to implicate in a specific phenotype, since some of them have been found in unaffected controls or relatives. Here, we describe individuals with likely pathogenic variants in KDM5B, including eight individuals with dominant missense variants. This study is a retrospective case series of 21 individuals with variants in KDM5B. We performed deep phenotyping and collected the clinical information and molecular data of these individuals’ family members. We compared the phenotypes according to variant type and to those previously described in the literature. The most common features were developmental delay, impaired intellectual development, behavioral problems, autistic behaviors, sleep disorders, facial dysmorphism, and overgrowth. DD, ASD behaviors, and sleep disorders were more common in individuals with dominant disruptive KDM5B variants, while individuals with dominant missense variants presented more frequently with renal and skin anomalies. This study extends our understanding of the KDM5B-related neurodevelopmental disorder and suggests the pathogenicity of certain dominant KDM5B missense variants.
Analysis of the Molecular Mechanism of Energy Metabolism in the Sex Differentiation of Chickens Based on Transcriptome Sequencing
Authors: Zhao Ziduo , Zhao Zongyi , Cheng Fufu , Wang Zhe , Geng Qingqing , Wang Yingjie , Niu Yingjie , Zuo Qisheng , Zhang Yani
Published: August 2024

The determination of sex in mammals is established and controlled by various complex mechanisms. In contrast, sex control in poultry remains an unresolved issue. In this study, RNA-sequencing was conducted for male gonads and ovarian tissues in chicken embryos of up to 18.5 days to identify metabolic factors influencing male and female sex differentiation, as well as gonadal development. Our results reveal that PKM2, a critical glycolysis-related protein, plays a significant role in chicken sex differentiation via PPARG, a crucial hormone gene. We propose that our discoveries bolster the notion that glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation function as antecedent contributors to sexual phenotypic development and preservation.
A Comprehensive Review of Bioinformatics Tools for Genomic Biomarker Discovery Driving Precision Oncology
Authors: Clark Alexis J. , Lillard James W.
Published: August 2024

The rapid advancement of high-throughput technologies, particularly next-generation sequencing (NGS), has revolutionized cancer research by enabling the investigation of genetic variations such as SNPs, copy number variations, gene expression, and protein levels. These technologies have elevated the significance of precision oncology, creating a demand for biomarker identification and validation. This review explores the complex interplay of oncology, cancer biology, and bioinformatics tools, highlighting the challenges in statistical learning, experimental validation, data processing, and quality control that underpin this transformative field. This review outlines the methodologies and applications of bioinformatics tools in cancer genomics research, encompassing tools for data structuring, pathway analysis, network analysis, tools for analyzing biomarker signatures, somatic variant interpretation, genomic data analysis, and visualization tools. Open-source tools and repositories like The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), Genomic Data Commons (GDC), cBioPortal, UCSC Genome Browser, Array Express, and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) have emerged to streamline cancer omics data analysis. Bioinformatics has significantly impacted cancer research, uncovering novel biomarkers, driver mutations, oncogenic pathways, and therapeutic targets. Integrating multi-omics data, network analysis, and advanced ML will be pivotal in future biomarker discovery and patient prognosis prediction.
Pediatric Hemispheric High-Grade Gliomas and H3.3-G34 Mutation: A Review of the Literature on Biological Features and New Therapeutic Strategies
Authors: Bonada Marta , Pittarello Matilde , De Fazio Emerson , Gans Alessandro , Alimonti Paolo , Slika Hasan , Legnani Federico , Di Meco Francesco , Tyler Betty
Published: August 2024

Pediatric high-grade glioma (pHGG) encompasses a wide range of gliomas with different genomic, epigenomic, and transcriptomic features. Almost 50% of pHGGs present a mutation in genes coding for histone 3, including the subtype harboring the H3.3-G34 mutation. In this context, histone mutations are frequently associated with mutations in TP53 and ATRX, along with PDGFRA and NOTCH2NL amplifications. Moreover, the H3.3-G34 histone mutation induces epigenetic changes in immune-related genes and exerts modulatory functions on the microenvironment. Also, the functionality of the blood–brain barrier (BBB) has an impact on treatment response. The prognosis remains poor with conventional treatments, thus eliciting the investigation of additional and alternative therapies. Promising molecular targets include PDGFRA amplification, BRAF mutation, EGFR amplification, NF1 loss, and IDH mutation. Considering that pHGGs harboring the H3.3-G34R mutation appear to be more susceptible to immunotherapies (ITs), different options have been recently explored, including immune checkpoint inhibitors, antibody mediated IT, and Car-T cells. This review aims to summarize the knowledge concerning cancer biology and cancer-immune cell interaction in this set of pediatric gliomas, with a focus on possible therapeutic options.
First-Line Combination with Proteasome Inhibitor-Based Treatment and Zoledronic Acid Is Effective in Reducing Later Fractures in Multiple Myeloma Irrespective of Multiple Myeloma Bone Disease at Diagnosis
Authors: Eskelinen Veera , Nivakoski Elise , Launonen Kirsi , Partanen Anu , Kakko Sakari , Kuusisto Milla E. L.
Published: August 2024

The present study provides real-world evidence on the treatment of multiple myeloma (MM) bone disease with various bisphosphonates combined for different myeloma-specific treatments as no validated data regarding the best combination treatment for bone disease associated with MM are available. We examined retrospectively 345 MM patients treated with autologous stem cell transplantation in Finland during 1996–2020. The median age of the patients was 60 years with a median follow-up time of 50 months (1–339). At diagnosis, 72.1% of the patients had myeloma-associated bone disease and 45.8% had fractures. Most patients (58.8%) received proteasome inhibitor (PI)-containing treatment at first line. MM bone disease was treated in 91.6% of the patients; 49.9% received zoledronic acid (ZA) and 29.9% pamidronate. Inferior overall survival was associated with MM bone disease at diagnosis (p = 0.005) or a fracture at diagnosis (p = 0.003). A later fracture was identified in 29% of the patients, and in those patients without MM bone disease at diagnosis later fractures were less common after ZA treatment (p = 0.049). PI-based treatment plus ZA (p = 0.019) seemed to be the best combination to prevent later fractures, even though the same patient subgroup was more likely to experience relapse (p = 0.018), and also when excluding patients with previous induction therapy without novel agents (p = 0.008). To conclude, this study suggests that the best therapy to prevent later fractures in MM might be PI-based treatment combined with ZA.
Ultramarine Blue in Edvard Munch’s Collection: A Multi-Analytical Study of Early 20th Century Commercial Oil Paints
Authors: Boracchi Beatrice G. , Ferrer Eun-Jin Strand , Gnemmi Margherita , Falchi Laura , Izzo Francesca Caterina , Sandu Irina Crina Anca
Published: August 2024

The recurrence of specific deteriorating phenomena in blue paints used by Edvard Munch, observed more frequently from artworks from 1907 and onwards, calls for an analytical investigation of these paints. Ten commercial Ultramarine blue oil paint tubes from Munch’s studio materials were studied, employing a multi-analytical approach comprising ATR-FTIR, µ-Raman, GC-MS, and SEM-EDS techniques. This study aims to ascertain the composition of these industrially produced blue oil paints and shed more light on the potential implications for darkening and other deterioration phenomena observed in Munch’s artworks. The analyzed samples exhibited complex mixtures, characterized by significant presences of additives such as non-drying or partially drying oils, metal soaps, and preservatives. Moreover, extenders including clay minerals and white and other blue pigments were identified. Some compositions diverged from those indicated on the labels of the tubes. This study presents hypotheses regarding the causes of deterioration mechanisms observed in Ultramarine blue paints and outlines future perspectives and implications of darkening and other surface degradation phenomena in paintings from MUNCH’s collection towards best conservation and display practices.
The “Galenic Question”: A Solution Based on Historical Sources and a Mathematical Analysis of Texts
Authors: La Greca Fernando , De Caro Liberato , Matricciani Emilio
Published: August 2024

How many different writers authored the huge number of texts attributed to Galen of Pergamum (129~216 Anno Domini (AD)), medical doctor and philosopher, a giant in the history of medicine? The quest to find out which texts were his and which ones were written by others is known as the “Galenic Question”. We propose a “solution” to it through a multidisciplinary approach based (a) on historical research and (b) on a mathematical analysis of the Greek texts. The historical approach considers historical independent sources and anachronisms. The mathematical approach is based on a mathematical theory concerning deep language variables, rarely consciously controlled by any author, and is therefore capable of giving indications on the similarity of texts, with little or no bias. The multidisciplinary approach has convinced us that at least three authors wrote the texts attributed to Galen. The first two were very likely real historical persons: (a) a certain Galen living between the end of the I century Before Christ (BC) and the second half of the I century AD, and (b) the historical Galen of Pergamum (II–III centuries AD). We believe the third (c) to be represented by several unknown authors hiding under the name Galen, but likely living after Galen of Pergamum’s death.
The Feasibility of the Diabetes Self-Management Coaching Program in Primary Care: A Mixed-Methods Randomized Controlled Feasibility Trial
Authors: Yehualashet Fikadu Ambaw , Kessler Dorothy , Bizuneh Segenet M. , Donnelly Catherine
Published: August 2024

Background: Diabetes mellitus, a chronic metabolic disorder associated with elevated blood sugar levels, is a significant cause of morbidity, mortality, and disability globally. The rampant rise in the prevalence of diabetes presents a public health burden and a challenge to the primary care setting. Diabetes self-management coaching is an emergent, client-centered, solution-focused approach to enhance self-efficacy and self-care behavior, control glycemia, and prevent acute and chronic complications. Currently, there is no diabetes self-management support strategy in the primary care setting in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study assessed the feasibility, acceptability, and fidelity of implementing the Diabetes Self-Management Coaching Program in primary care in Ethiopia. Method: A single-center, single-blinded, parallel group mixed-methods feasibility randomized control design was applied to assess the feasibility, acceptability, and fidelity of the Diabetes Self-Management Coaching Program in primary care. Adult patients with type 2 diabetes with HbA1c ≥ 7%, taking diabetic medication, and living in Gondar town were included in the study. A block randomization technique with a block size of four was used to allocate participants into the treatment and control groups. The treatment group attended a 12-week Diabetes Self-Management Coaching Program in addition to undergoing usual care, while the control group received the usual care for the same period. Data were collected at baseline, at the end of the intervention, and after the follow-up period. Descriptive statistics such as the frequency, mean, median, and standard deviations were computed. Based on the normality assessment, the baseline group difference was examined using the independent sample Student’s t-test, the Mann–Whitney U test, and the chi-square test. Result: This study’s eligibility, recruitment, retention, and adherence rates were 23%, 70%, 90%, and 85%, respectively. Both the qualitative and quantitative findings show that the program was feasible to implement in primary care and acceptable to the participants. The fidelity assessment of the Diabetes Self-Management Coaching Program indicates an appropriate intervention implementation. Conclusions: This study demonstrated remarkable recruitment, retention, and adherence rates. The Diabetes Self-Management Coaching Program was feasible, acceptable, and implementable in primary care in Ethiopia. As a result, we recommend that a large-scale multi-center cluster randomized controlled trial with an adequate sample can be designed to evaluate the effect of the DSM Coaching Program on clinical and behavioral outcomes.
Health Status and COVID-19 Epidemiology in an Inland Region of Portugal: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Lindo Jorge , Coelho Patrícia , Gavinhos Catarina , Martins Manuel , Liberal Joana , Ferreira António Jorge , Gonçalves Teresa , Rodrigues Francisco
Published: August 2024

Multiple factors, from socioeconomic development to genetic background, can affect the regional impact of some diseases, and this has also been seen during the COVID-19 pandemic. The objective of this retrospective study was to characterize a population in the interior of Portugal regarding health status and COVID-19 epidemiology. Between October 2021 and January 2023, 1553 subjects residing in Beira Baixa, Portugal, were included. Using a self-report approach, demographic and clinical data were obtained. Blood group, blood pressure, peripheral oxygen saturation and anti-spike protein immunoglobulin concentration were also analyzed. Statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics. The average age of the participants was 48.95 (±14.43) years, with 64% being male and 36% being female. The most prevalent comorbidities were hypertension (19.2%), dyslipidemia (12.6%) and diabetes mellitus (6.6%). Half of the population was overweight, and more than half of the subjects had no history of tobacco consumption. Among the participants, 33% were infected with SARS-CoV-2: 70.1% had mild disease, 14.1% moderate disease and 1.4% severe disease. There was a very significant adherence to vaccination (97%). Previously infected or vaccinated people had higher anti-spike protein immunoglobulin values; this value depended on the vaccine administered (p < 0.001). Patients with autoimmune diseases and smokers had lower levels of anti-S IgG antibodies (p = 0.030 and p = 0.024, respectively). The severity of COVID-19 did not affect the concentration of anti-S IgG (p = 0.430). This study highlights the general health statuses and the impact of COVID-19 on a population in the Portuguese interior. Knowledge of the circulation and impact of the virus in this specific population can alert and assist in better interventions being conducted by health authorities.
Disaster Preparedness among Healthcare Professionals in Lebanon
Authors: Skaff Yara , Jarrah Mohammad , Nasrallah Rabih , Habib Reina , Sakr Rania
Published: August 2024

Background: Disaster disrupts the normal functioning of a community, causing significant damages and losses. In recent years, Lebanon faced multiple disasters, including one of the largest explosions ever recorded, the Beirut Blast, in August 2020. Limited studies in the literature have examined disaster medicine preparedness among healthcare professionals (HCPs). Objective: To examine the knowledge (K), attitude (A), readiness to practice (rP), and KArP associated with disaster medicine preparedness among HCPs in Lebanon. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted in Lebanon using data from participants answering an online survey. Participants enrolled in this study were HCPs (residents and faculty), medical students, and postdoctoral research scholars. Levels of knowledge, attitude, and readiness to practice were assessed and used to examine their association with participants’ socio-demographic characteristics. Results: A total of 195 participants (average age 30.6 ± 11.4 years) were included in this study. Participants reported moderate scores of knowledge, attitude, and readiness to practice. Older participants reported better readiness to practice and a KArP score. A significant difference was observed in all categories according to gender, with men having higher scores than women. No significant difference was observed between the level of education and knowledge, attitude, and total KArP scores. Conclusions: Our study’s findings showed that age and the level of education were positively correlated with readiness to practice. Men, compared to women, had significantly higher scores in all categories. Barriers to the KArP should be identified and targeted in future studies, as disaster preparedness at the institutional level may improve outcomes in future disaster encounters.
MicroRNA-148a Targets DNMT1 and PPARGC1A to Regulate the Viability, Proliferation, and Milk Fat Synthesis of Ovine Mammary Epithelial Cells
Authors: Wang Jiqing , Ke Na , Wu Xinmiao , Zhen Huimin , Hu Jiang , Liu Xiu , Li Shaobin , Zhao Fangfang , Li Mingna , Shi Bingang , Zhao Zhidong , Ren Chunyan , Hao Zhiyun
Published: August 2024

In this study, the expression profiles of miR-148a were constructed in eight different ovine tissues, including mammary gland tissue, during six different developmental periods. The effect of miR-148a on the viability, proliferation, and milk fat synthesis of ovine mammary epithelial cells (OMECs) was investigated, and the target relationship of miR-148a with two predicted target genes was verified. The expression of miR-148a exhibited obvious tissue-specific and temporal-specific patterns. miR-148a was expressed in all eight ovine tissues investigated, with the highest expression level in mammary gland tissue (p < 0.05). Additionally, miR-148a was expressed in ovine mammary gland tissue during each of the six developmental periods studied, with its highest level at peak lactation (p < 0.05). The overexpression of miR-148a increased the viability of OMECs, the number and percentage of Edu-labeled positive OMECs, and the expression levels of two cell-proliferation marker genes. miR-148a also increased the percentage of OMECs in the S phase. In contrast, transfection with an miR-148a inhibitor produced the opposite effect compared to the miR-148a mimic. These results indicate that miR-148a promotes the viability and proliferation of OMECs in Small-tailed Han sheep. The miR-148a mimic increased the triglyceride content by 37.78% (p < 0.01) and the expression levels of three milk fat synthesis marker genes in OMECs. However, the miR-148a inhibitor reduced the triglyceride level by 87.11% (p < 0.01). These results suggest that miR-148a promotes milk fat synthesis in OMECs. The dual-luciferase reporter assay showed that miR-148a reduced the luciferase activities of DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-A (PPARGC1A) in wild-type vectors, suggesting that they are target genes of miR-148a. The expression of miR-148a was highly negatively correlated with PPARGC1A (r = −0.789, p < 0.001) in ovine mammary gland tissue, while it had a moderate negative correlation with DNMT1 (r = −0.515, p = 0.029). This is the first study to reveal the molecular mechanisms of miR-148a underlying the viability, proliferation, and milk fat synthesis of OMECs in sheep.
Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators’ (SERMs) Influence on TET3 Expression in Breast Cancer Cell Lines with Distinct Biological Subtypes
Authors: Linowiecka Kinga , Szpotan Justyna , Godlewska Marlena , Gaweł Damian , Zarakowska Ewelina , Gackowski Daniel , Brożyna Anna A. , Foksiński Marek
Published: August 2024

Tamoxifen, a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM), exhibits dual agonist or antagonist effects contingent upon its binding to either G-protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) or estrogen nuclear receptor (ESR). Estrogen signaling plays a pivotal role in initiating epigenetic alterations and regulating estrogen-responsive genes in breast cancer. Employing three distinct breast cancer cell lines—MCF-7 (ESR+; GPER+), MDA-MB-231 (ESR−; GPER−), and SkBr3 (ESR−; GPER+)—this study subjected them to treatment with two tamoxifen derivatives: 4-hydroxytamoxifen (4-HT) and endoxifen (Endox). Through 2D high-performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry detection (HPLC-MS/MS), varying levels of 5-methylcytosine (5-mC) were found, with MCF-7 displaying the highest levels. Furthermore, TET3 mRNA expression levels varied among the cell lines, with MCF-7 exhibiting the lowest expression. Notably, treatment with 4-HT induced significant changes in TET3 expression across all cell lines, with the most pronounced increase seen in MCF-7 and the least in MDA-MB-231. These findings underscore the influence of tamoxifen derivatives on DNA methylation patterns, particularly through modulating TET3 expression, which appears to be contingent on the presence of estrogen receptors. This study highlights the potential of targeting epigenetic modifications for personalized anti-cancer therapy, offering a novel avenue to improve treatment outcomes.
An Overview of Altered Pathways Associated with Sensitivity to Platinum-Based Chemotherapy in Neuroendocrine Tumors: Strengths and Prospects
Authors: Stefàno Erika , De Castro Federica , Ciccarese Antonella , Muscella Antonella , Marsigliante Santo , Benedetti Michele , Fanizzi Francesco Paolo
Published: August 2024

Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) are a diverse group of malignancies with a shared phenotype but varying prognosis and response to current treatments. Based on their morphological features and rate of proliferation, NENs can be classified into two main groups with a distinct clinical behavior and response to treatment: (i) well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) or carcinoids (with a low proliferation rate), and (ii) poorly differentiated small- or large-cell neuroendocrine carcinomas (NECs) (with a high proliferation rate). For certain NENs (such as pancreatic tumors, higher-grade tumors, and those with DNA damage repair defects), chemotherapy is the main therapeutic approach. Among the different chemotherapic agents, cisplatin and carboplatin, in combination with etoposide, have shown the greatest efficacy in treating NECs compared to NETs. The cytotoxic effects of cisplatin and carboplatin are primarily due to their binding to DNA, which interferes with normal DNA transcription and/or replication. Consistent with this, NECs, which often have mutations in pathways involved in DNA repair (such as Rb, MDM2, BRCA, and PTEN), have a high response to platinum-based chemotherapy. Identifying mutations that affect molecular pathways involved in the initiation and progression of NENs can be crucial in predicting the response to platinum chemotherapy. This review aims to highlight targetable mutations that could serve as predictors of therapeutic response to platinum-based chemotherapy in NENs.
Antioxidant Activity and Preclinical Safety of Semen persicae Extract
Authors: Yang Jing , Liu Yu , Song Yingying , Liu Qinqin , Jin Liqiong , Shang Ruofeng
Published: August 2024

Semen persicae is the dried mature seeds of Prunus persica (L.) Batsch and P. davidiana (Carr.) Franch and is commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formulations because of its variety of biological effects. The present study aimed to evaluate the antioxidant activity and toxicity profiles of semen persicae extract (SPE) after determining the amygdalin content (4.95%) using HPLC. Regarding the in vitro antioxidant activity, SPE with 2 mg/mL concentration scavenged 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), hydroxyl, and ABTS free radicals with rates of 51.78%, 55.47%, and 57.16%, respectively. The same concentration of SPE chelated 30.76% Fe2+. The in vitro cytotoxicity study revealed that SPE induced 92.45% cell viabilities of HEPG2 even at 2000 μg/mL. In the acute toxicity study, oral administration of SPE did not provoke mortality or any toxic signs at doses up to 2000 mg/kg bw. Repeated oral administration for 28 days at doses of 100, 300, and 600 mg/kg per day in rats did not show any toxicity signs or gross pathological abnormalities. The results of the present research provide basic reference data for SPE with a moderate effect on antioxidant activity and low toxicity for future screening of biological and pharmacological properties.
Association of CETP Gene Polymorphisms and Haplotypes with Acute Heart Rate Response to Exercise
Authors: Al Ashkar Habib , Kovács Nóra , Veres-Balajti Ilona , Ádány Róza , Pikó Péter
Published: August 2024

Polymorphisms in the cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) gene are known to be strongly associated with increased cardiovascular risk, primarily through their effects on the lipid profile and consequently on atherosclerotic risk. The acute heart rate response (AHRR) to physical activity is closely related to individual cardiovascular health. This study aimed to investigate the effect of CETP gene polymorphisms on AHRR. Our analysis examines the association of five single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs; rs1532624, rs5882, rs708272, rs7499892, and rs9989419) and their haplotypes (H) in the CETP gene with AHRR in 607 people from the Hungarian population. Individual AHRR in the present study was assessed using the YMCA 3-min step test and was estimated as the difference between resting and post-exercise heart rate, i.e., delta heart rate (ΔHR). To exclude the direct confounding effect of the CETP gene on the lipid profile, adjustments for TG and HDL-C levels, next to conventional risk factors, were applied in the statistical analyses. Among the examined five SNPs, two showed a significant association with lower ΔHR (rs1532624—Cdominant: B = −8.41, p < 0.001; rs708272—Gdominant: B = −8.33, p < 0.001) and reduced the risk of adverse AHRR (rs1532624—Cdominant: OR = 0.44, p = 0.004; rs708272—Gdominant: OR = 0.43, p = 0.003). Among the ten haplotypes, two showed significant association with lower ΔHR (H3—CAGCA: B = −6.81, p = 0.003; H9—CGGCG: B = −14.64, p = 0.015) and lower risk of adverse AHRR (H3—CAGCA: OR = 0.58, p = 0.040; H9—CGGCG: OR = 0.05, p = 0.009) compared to the reference haplotype (H1—AGACG). Our study is the first to report a significant association between CETP gene polymorphisms and AHRR. It also confirms that the association of the CETP gene with cardiovascular risk is mediated by changes in heart rate in response to physical activity, in addition to its effect on lipid profile.
Correlation between Molecular Docking and the Stabilizing Interaction of HOMO-LUMO: Spirostans in CHK1 and CHK2, an In Silico Cancer Approach
Authors: Rosales-López Antonio , López-Castillo Guiee , Sandoval-Ramírez Jesús , Terán Joel , Carrasco-Carballo Alan
Published: August 2024

Checkpoint kinases 1 and 2 (CHK1 and CHK2) are enzymes that are involved in the control of DNA damage. At the present time, these enzymes are some of the most important targets in the fight against cancer since their inhibition produces cytotoxic effects in carcinogenic cells. This paper proposes the use of spirostans (Sp), natural compounds, as possible inhibitors of the enzymes CHK1 and CHK2 from an in silico analysis of a database of 155 molecules (S5). Bioinformatics studies of molecular docking were able to discriminate between 13 possible CHK1 inhibitors, 13 CHK2 inhibitors and 1 dual inhibitor for both enzymes. The administration, distribution, metabolism, excretion and toxicity (ADMETx) studies allowed a prediction of the distribution and metabolism of the potential inhibitors in the body, as well as determining the excretion routes and the appropriate administration route. The best inhibition candidates were discriminated by comparing the enzyme-substrate interactions from 2D diagrams and molecular docking. Specific inhibition candidates were obtained, in addition to studying the dual inhibitor candidate and observing their stability in dynamic molecular studies. In addition, Highest Occupied Molecular Orbital—Lowest Unoccupied Molecular Orbital (HOMO-LUMO) interactions were analyzed to study the stability of interactions between the selected enzymes and spirostans resulting in the predominant gaps from HOMOCHKs to LUMOSp (Highest Occupied Molecular Orbital of CHKs—Lowest Unoccupied Molecular Orbital of spirostan). In brief, this study presents the selection inhibitors of CHK1 and CHK2 as a potential treatment for cancer using a combination of molecular docking and dynamics, ADMETx predictons, and HOMO-LUMO calculation for selection.
Photodynamic Therapy of Atherosclerotic Plaque Monitored by T1 and T2 Relaxation Times of Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Wańczura Piotr , Aebisher David , Leksa Dawid , Mytych Wiktoria , Dynarowicz Klaudia , Myśliwiec Angelika , Leksa Natalia , Truszkiewicz Adrian , Bartusik-Aebisher Dorota
Published: August 2024

Atherosclerosis, marked by plaque accumulation within arteries, results from lipid dysregulation, inflammation, and vascular remodeling. Plaque composition, including lipid-rich cores and fibrous caps, determines stability and vulnerability. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has emerged as a promising treatment, leveraging photosensitizers to induce localized cytotoxicity upon light activation. PDT targets plaque components selectively, reducing burden and inflammation. Challenges remain in optimizing PDT parameters and translating preclinical success to clinical efficacy. Nonetheless, PDT offers a minimally invasive strategy for atherosclerosis management, promising personalized interventions for cardiovascular health. The objective of the current study was to present the findings from quantitative non-contrast MRI of atherosclerosis post-PDT by assessing relaxation times. The study aimed to utilize and optimize a 1.5T MRI system. Clinical scanners were used for MRI examinations. The research involved analyzing T1 and T2 relaxation times. Following treatment of the samples with Rose Bengal and exposure to pure oxygen, PDT irradiation was administered. The results indicated that the therapy impacted the crus, evidenced by a significant decrease in relaxation times in the MRI data.
Reduction of N-Acetylglucosaminyltransferase-I Activity Promotes Neuroblastoma Invasiveness and EGF-Stimulated Proliferation In Vitro
Authors: Burch Adam P. , Hall M. Kristen , Wease Debra , Schwalbe Ruth A.
Published: August 2024

Aberrant N-glycosylation has been associated with progression of the pediatric cancer neuroblastoma (NB) but remains understudied. Here we investigated oligomannose N-glycans in NB by genetic editing of MGAT1 in a human NB cell line, BE(2)-C, called BE(2)-C(MGAT1−/−). Lectin binding studies confirmed that BE(2)-C(MGAT1−/−) had decreased complex and increased oligomannose N-glycans. The relevance of 2D and 3D cell cultures was demonstrated for cell morphology, cell proliferation, and cell invasion, thereby highlighting the necessity for 3D cell culture in investigating cancerous properties. Western blotting revealed that oligomannosylated EGFR had increased autophosphorylation. Proliferation was decreased in BE(2)-C(MGAT1−/−) using 2D and 3D cultures, but both cell lines had similar proliferation rates using 3D cultures without serum. Upon EGF treatment, BE(2)-C(MGAT1−/−), but not BE(2)-C, showed increased proliferation, and furthermore, the mutant proliferated much faster than BE(2)-C under 3D conditions. Cell spheroid invasiveness was greatly increased in BE(2)-C(MGAT1−/−) compared with BE(2)-C. Moreover, invasiveness was reduced in both cell lines with either EGF or RhoA activator treatment, regardless of the N-glycan population. Thus, this study further extends our earlier findings that oligomannose N-glycans enhance NB cell invasiveness, and that EGF stimulation of oligomannosylated EGFR greatly enhances cell proliferation rates, underlining the role of oligomannose N-glycans in the promotion of NB.
The Implementation of “Smart” Technologies in the Agricultural Sector: A Review
Authors: Assimakopoulos Fotis , Vassilakis Costas , Margaris Dionisis , Kotis Konstantinos , Spiliotopoulos Dimitris
Published: August 2024

The growing global population demands an increase in agricultural production and the promotion of sustainable practices. Smart agriculture, driven by advanced technologies, is crucial to achieving these goals. These technologies provide real-time information for crop monitoring, yield prediction, and essential farming functions. However, adopting intelligent farming systems poses challenges, including learning new systems and dealing with installation costs. Robust support is crucial for integrating smart farming into practices. Understanding the current state of agriculture, technology trends, and the challenges in technology acceptance is essential for a smooth transition to Agriculture 4.0. This work reports on the pivotal synergy of IoT technology with other research trends, such as weather forecasting and robotics. It also presents the applications of smart agriculture worldwide, with an emphasis on government initiatives to support farmers and promote global adoption. The aim of this work is to provide a comprehensive review of smart technologies for precision agriculture and especially of their adoption level and results on the global scale; to this end, this review examines three important areas of smart agriculture, namely field, greenhouse, and livestock monitoring.
Field Exploration for Colony Selection: Evaluating Hygienic Behavior in Apis cerana indica Colonies
Authors: Haran Ramkumar , Sumathi Ettiappan , Iqbal Javaid , Krupesh Sivakumar , Parthasarathi Ganesan , Vijay Settu , Saminathan Vangili Ramasami , Srinivasan Madapuji Rajagopalan , Kokiladevi Eswaran , Jayakanthan Mannu , Zeshan Ali
Published: August 2024

Hygienic behavior (HB) emerges as a pivotal trait, impacting colony resistance to diseases. This study aimed to understand the behavioral traits of Apis cerana indica colonies, with a focus on HB and other key characteristics crucial for colony health, and to screen and identify colonies with superior hygienic behavior and better performance to combat prevailing diseases and pests. This research spans a comprehensive field analysis with different seasons and locations, encompassing the distinct environmental and management factors that influence honey bee behavior. The inclusion of A. cerana indica colonies from various locations provides a novel perspective, offering valuable insights regarding the hygienic behavior of A. cerana indica. Several statistical analyses, including descriptive statistics, principal component analysis (PCA), and Aligned Rank Transformation-Analysis of Variance (ART-ANOVA) for repeated measures, shed light on the distribution of hive metrics, emphasizing the significance of considering seasonality and location-specific factors. PCA highlights unique characteristics in Tirupur and Coimbatore colonies, while correlation analyses uncover relationships among HB, honey, pollen, brood area, and adult population. Moreover, the study’s nuanced findings gave the status of hygienic behavior of A. cerana indica colonies and identified colonies with better colony performance, which will be useful for future breeding programs with A. cerana indica.
Wideband Vibro-Acoustic Coupling Investigation in Three Dimensions Using Order-Reduced Isogeometric Finite Element/Boundary Element Method
Authors: Xu Yanming , Zhang Xin , Wang Jiachen , Hu Zhongming
Published: August 2024

This study introduces an innovative model-order reduction (MOR) technique that integrates boundary element and finite element methodologies, streamlining the analysis of wideband vibro-acoustic interactions within aquatic and aerial environments. The external acoustic phenomena are efficiently simulated via the boundary element method (BEM), while the finite element method (FEM) adeptly captures the dynamics of vibrating thin-walled structures. Furthermore, the integration of isogeometric analysis within the finite element/boundary element framework ensures geometric integrity and maintains high-order continuity for Kirchhoff–Love shell models, all without the intermediary step of meshing. Foundational to our reduced-order model is the application of the second-order Arnoldi method coupled with Taylor expansions, effectively eliminating the frequency dependence of system matrices. The proposed technique significantly enhances the computational efficiency of wideband vibro-acoustic coupling analyses, as demonstrated through numerical simulations.
Investigation on Calm Water Resistance of Wind Turbine Installation Vessels with a Type of T-BOW
Authors: Xiahou Mingsheng , Yang Deqing , Liu Hengxu , Shi Yuanhe
Published: August 2024

Given the typical characteristics of self-propulsion and jack-up wind turbine installation vessels (WTIVs), including their full and blunt hull form and complex appendages, this paper combines the model test method with the RANS-based CFD numerical prediction method to experimentally and numerically study the resistance of the optimized hull at different spudcan retraction positions. The calm water resistance components and their mechanisms of WTIVs based on T-BOW were obtained. Furthermore, using the multivariate nonlinear least squares method, an empirical formula for rapid resistance estimation based on the Holtrop method was derived, and its prediction accuracy and applicability were validated with a full-scale ship case. This study indicates that the primary resistance components of such low-speed vessels are viscous pressure resistance, followed by frictional resistance and wave-making resistance. Notably, the spudcan retraction well area, as a unique appendage of WTIVs, exhibits a significant “moonpool additional resistance” effect. Different spudcan retraction positions affect the total calm water resistance by approximately 20% to 30%. Therefore, in the resistance optimization design of WTIVs, special attention should be paid to the matching design of the spudcan structure and the hull shell plate lines in the spudcan retraction well area.