bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibition of miR-25 Ameliorates Cardiac Dysfunction and Fibrosis by Restoring Krüppel-like Factor 4 Expression
Authors: Lee Cholong , Cho Sunghye , Jeong Dongtak
Published: August 2023

Cardiac hypertrophy is an adaptive response to various pathological insults, including hypertension. However, sustained hypertrophy can cause impaired calcium regulation, cardiac dysfunction, and remodeling, accompanied by cardiac fibrosis. Our previous study identified miR-25 as a regulator of SERCA2a, and found that the inhibition of miR-25 improved cardiac function and reduced fibrosis by restoring SERCA2a expression in a murine heart failure model. However, the precise mechanism underlying the reduction in fibrosis following miR-25 inhibition remains unclear. Therefore, we postulate that miR-25 may have additional targets that contribute to regulating cardiac fibrosis. Using in silico analysis, Krüppel-like factor 4 (KLF4) was identified as an additional target of miR-25. Further experiments confirmed that KLF4 was directly targeted by miR-25 and that its expression was reduced by long-term treatment with Angiotensin II, a major hypertrophic inducer. Subsequently, treatment with an miR-25 inhibitor alleviated the cardiac dysfunction, fibrosis, and inflammation induced by Angiotensin II (Ang II). These findings indicate that inhibiting miR-25 not only enhances calcium cycling and cardiac function via SERCA2a restoration but also reduces fibrosis by restoring KLF4 expression. Therefore, targeting miR-25 may be a promising therapeutic strategy for treating hypertensive heart diseases.
Lipid Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Chains in Mouse Kidneys Were Increased within 5 min of a Single High Dose Whole Body Irradiation
Authors: Li Wenxin , Zhang Chi , Aramaki Shuhei , Xu Lili , Tsuge Shogo , Sakamoto Takumi , Mamun Md. Al , Islam Ariful , Hayakawa Takamitsu , Takanashi Yusuke , Dubail Maxime , Konishi Kenta , Sato Tomohito , Kahyo Tomoaki , Fouillade Charles , Nakamura Katsumasa , Setou Mitsutoshi
Published: August 2023

To understand the ultra-early reaction of normal organ lipids during irradiation, we investigated the response of lipids, including polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) chains, which are particularly susceptible to damage by ROS, in mice’s kidneys, lungs, brains, and livers within 5 min of single high-dose irradiation. In this study, we set up three groups of C56BL/6 male mice and conducted whole-body irradiation with 0 Gy, 10 Gy, and 20 Gy single doses. Kidney, lung, brain, and liver tissues were collected within 5 min of irradiation. PUFA-targeted and whole lipidomic analyses were conducted using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The results showed that PUFA chains of kidney phosphatidylcholine (PC), phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), and triacylglycerol (TG) significantly increased within 5 min of 10 Gy and 20 Gy irradiation. The main components of increased PUFA chains in PC and PE were C18:2, C20:4, and C22:6, and in TG the main component was C18:2. The kidney lipidomes also showed significant changes from the perspective of lipid species, mainly dominated by an increase in PC, PE, TG, and signal lipids, while lipidomes of the lung, brain, and liver were slightly changed. Our results revealed that acute PUFA chains increase and other lipidomic changes in the kidney upon whole-body irradiation within 5 min of irradiation. The significantly increased lipids also showed a consistent preference for possessing PUFA chains. The lipidomic changes varied from organ to organ, which indicates that the response upon irradiation within a short time is tissue-specific.
Move Your Body toward Healthy Aging: Potential Neuroprotective Mechanisms of Irisin in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Bellettini-Santos Tatiani , Batista-Silva Hemily , Marcolongo-Pereira Clairton , Quintela-Castro Fernanda Cristina de Abreu , Barcelos Rafael Mazioli , Chiepe Kelly Cristina Mota Braga , Rossoni Joamyr Victor , Passamani-Ambrosio Roberta , da Silva Bruno Spalenza , Chiarelli-Neto Orlando , Garcez Michelle Lima
Published: August 2023

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the leading cause of dementia in older adults, having a significant global burden and increasing prevalence. Current treatments for AD only provide symptomatic relief and do not cure the disease. Physical activity has been extensively studied as a potential preventive measure against cognitive decline and AD. Recent research has identified a hormone called irisin, which is produced during exercise, that has shown promising effects on cognitive function. Irisin acts on the brain by promoting neuroprotection by enhancing the growth and survival of neurons. It also plays a role in metabolism, energy regulation, and glucose homeostasis. Furthermore, irisin has been found to modulate autophagy, which is a cellular process involved in the clearance of protein aggregates, which are a hallmark of AD. Additionally, irisin has been shown to protect against cell death, apoptosis, oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation, all of which are implicated in AD pathogenesis. However, further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms and therapeutic potential of irisin in AD. Despite the current gaps in knowledge, irisin holds promise as a potential therapeutic target for slowing cognitive decline and improving quality of life in AD patients.
A Pilot Study on Burnout in Medical Students (BuMS) over an Academic Year
Authors: Ashby Frederick J. , Dodd William S. , Helm Emily W. , Stribling Daniel , Spiryda Lisa B. , Heldermon Coy D. , Xia Yuxing
Published: August 2023

Background: Physician burnout is increasingly recognized as a problem in physician well-being and may negatively affect patient care outcomes. Burnout can begin at any point of training or practice, potentially as early as the first year of medical school. Thus, there is a need to characterize possible burnout in medical students as the first step to optimizing strategies for mitigation. Traditionally, burnout has been studied using survey-based variables; however, identifying novel physiological and molecular biomarkers could allow for the expansion of screening and intervention strategies. Methods: In this pilot prospective cohort study, we followed a group of preclinical 1st and 2nd year medical students (n = 9) at the University of Florida over one academic year of medical school. We collected survey responses (Maslach Burnout Inventory [MBI], Patient Health Questionnaire-9 [PHQ-9], and Perceived Stress Scale [PSS]) and measured a panel of candidate physiological biomarkers of burnout (Inflammatory Cytokine Panel, Heart Rate Variability [HRV], and Leukocyte Telomere Length). Results: In the study participants, MBI composite scores and PHQ-9 scores showed a statistically significant increase over the course of an academic year, indicating higher levels of medical student burnout. Additionally, respondents reported a statistically significant decrease in time devoted to exercise, and we measured a significant increase in body mass index (BMI) during the academic year. PSS scores showed an upward trend which was not statistically significant. Likewise, average leukocyte telomere length trended downward, but the change was not statistically significant. There were no measured changes in the serum concentration of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and time-domain heart rate variability metrics did not differ significantly between timepoints. Conclusions: This pilot study supports the notion that burnout can begin early in medical school and is detectable via survey instruments in first-year and second-year medical students even with a small sample size. Additionally, leukocyte telomere length could potentially be a useful biomarker of burnout with supporting data, but we did not observe any statistically significant changes in inflammatory cytokines or heart rate variability. Further investigation into these potential biomarkers with larger cohort sizes is required to fully characterize their clinical utility.
Poor Air Quality Is Linked to Stress in Honeybees and Can Be Compounded by the Presence of Disease
Authors: Mayack Christopher , Cook Sarah E. , Niño Bernardo D. , Rivera Laura , Niño Elina L. , Seshadri Arathi
Published: August 2023

Climate change-related extreme weather events have manifested in the western United States as warmer and drier conditions with an increased risk of wildfires. Honeybees, essential for crop pollination in California, are at the center of these extreme weather events. We associated the maximum daily temperature and air quality index values with the performance of colonies placed in wildfire-prone areas and determined the impact of these abiotic stressors on gene expression and histopathology. Our results indicate that poor air quality was associated with higher maximum daily temperatures and a lower gene expression level of Prophenoloxidase (ProPO), which is tied to immune system strength; however, a higher gene expression level of Vitellogenin (Vg) is tied to oxidative stress. There was a positive relationship between Varroa mites and N. ceranae pathogen loads, and a negative correlation between Varroa mites and Heat Shock Protein 70 (HSP70) gene expression, suggesting the limited ability of mite-infested colonies to buffer against extreme temperatures. Histological analyses did not reveal overt signs of interaction between pathology and abiotic stressors, but N. ceranae infections were evident. Our study provides insights into interactions between abiotic stressors, their relation to common biotic stressors, and the expression of genes related to immunity and oxidative stress in bees.
Development of a Cardiovascular Disease Risk Prediction Model: A Preliminary Retrospective Cohort Study of a Patient Sample in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alabduljabbar Khaled , Alkhalifah Mohammed , Aldheshe Abdulaziz , Shihah Abdulelah Bin , Abu-Zaid Ahmed , DeVol Edward B. , Albedah Norah , Aldakhil Haifa , Alzayed Balqees , Mahmoud Ahmed , Alkhenizan Abdullah
Published: August 2023

Saudi Arabia has an alarmingly high incidence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and its associated risk factors. To effectively assess CVD risk, it is essential to develop tailored models for diverse regions and ethnicities using local population variables. No CVD risk prediction model has been locally developed. This study aims to develop the first 10-year CVD risk prediction model for Saudi adults aged 18 to 75 years. The electronic health records of Saudi male and female patients aged 18 to 75 years, who were seen in primary care settings between 2002 and 2019, were reviewed retrospectively via the Integrated Clinical Information System (ICIS) database (from January 2002 to February 2019). The Cox regression model was used to identify the risk factors and develop the CVD risk prediction model. Overall, 451 patients were included in this study, with a mean follow-up of 12.05 years. Thirty-five (7.7%) patients developed a CVD event. The following risk factors were included: fasting blood sugar (FBS) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c), heart failure, antihyperlipidemic therapy, antithrombotic therapy, and antihypertension therapy. The Bayesian information criterion (BIC) score was 314.4. This is the first prediction model developed in Saudi Arabia and the second in any Arab country after the Omani study. We assume that our CVD predication model will have the potential to be used widely after the validation study.
Free-Hand MIS TLIF without 3D Navigation—How to Achieve Low Radiation Exposure for Both Surgeon and Patient
Authors: Doria-Medina Roberto , Hubbe Ulrich , Scholz Christoph , Sircar Ronen , Brönner Johannes , Hoedlmoser Herbert , Klingler Jan-Helge
Published: August 2023

Background: Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) is one of the most frequently performed spinal fusion techniques, and this minimally invasive (MIS) approach has advantages over the traditional open approach. A drawback is the higher radiation exposure for the surgeon when conventional fluoroscopy (2D-fluoroscopy) is used. While computer-assisted navigation (CAN) reduce the surgeon’s radiation exposure, the patient’s exposure is higher. When we investigated 2D-fluoroscopically guided and 3D-navigated MIS TLIF in a randomized controlled trial, we detected low radiation doses for both the surgeon and the patient in the 2D-fluoroscopy group. Therefore, we extended the dataset, and herein, we report the radiation-sparing surgical technique of 2D-fluoroscopy-guided MIS TLIF. Methods: Monosegmental and bisegmental MIS TLIF was performed on 24 patients in adherence to advanced radiation protection principles and a radiation-sparing surgical protocol. Dedicated dosemeters recorded patient and surgeon radiation exposure. For safety assessment, pedicle screw accuracy was graded according to the Gertzbein–Robbins classification. Results: In total, 99 of 102 (97.1%) pedicle screws were correctly positioned (Gertzbein grade A/B). No breach caused neurological symptoms or necessitated revision surgery. The effective radiation dose to the surgeon was 41 ± 12 µSv per segment. Fluoroscopy time was 64 ± 34 s and 75 ± 43 radiographic images per segment were performed. Patient radiation doses at the neck, chest, and umbilical area were 65 ± 40, 123 ± 116, and 823 ± 862 µSv per segment, respectively. Conclusions: Using a dedicated radiation-sparing free-hand technique, 2D-fluoroscopy-guided MIS TLIF is successfully achievable with low radiation exposure to both the surgeon and the patient. With this technique, the maximum annual radiation exposure to the surgeon will not be exceeded, even with workday use.
Clinical Features and Outcomes of Acute Kidney Injury in Critically Ill COVID-19 Patients: A Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Bouguezzi Nabil , Ben Saida Imen , Toumi Radhouane , Meddeb Khaoula , Ennouri Emna , Bedhiafi Amir , Hamdi Dhouha , Boussarsar Mohamed
Published: August 2023

Background: An alarming number of COVID-19 patients, especially in severe cases, have developed acute kidney injury (AKI). Aim: The study aimed to assess the frequency, risk factors, and impact of AKI on mortality in critically ill COVID-19 patients. Methods: The study was a retrospective observational study conducted in the MICU. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify risk factors for AKI and clinical outcomes. Results: During the study period, 465 consecutive COVID-19 patients were admitted to the MICU. The patients’ characteristics were median age, 64 [54–71] years; median SAPSII, 31 [24–38]; and invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV), 244 (52.5%). The overall ICU mortality rate was 49%. Two hundred twenty-nine (49.2%) patients developed AKI. The factors independently associated with AKI were positive fluid balance (OR, 2.78; 95%CI [1.88–4.11]; p < 0.001), right heart failure (OR, 2.15; 95%CI [1.25–3.67]; p = 0.005), and IMV use (OR, 1.55; 95%CI [1.01–2.40]; p = 0.044). Among the AKI patients, multivariate analysis identified the following factors as independently associated with ICU mortality: age (OR, 1.05; 95%CI [1.02–1.09]; p = 0.012), IMV use (OR, 48.23; 95%CI [18.05–128.89]; p < 0.001), and septic shock (OR, 3.65; 95%CI [1.32–10.10]; p = 0.012). Conclusion: The present study revealed a high proportion of AKI among critically ill COVID-19 patients. This complication seems to be linked to a severe cardiopulmonary interaction and fluid balance management, thus accounting for a poor outcome.
Antifouling Behavior of Copper-Modified Titania Nanotube Surfaces
Authors: Savargaonkar Aniruddha Vijay , Munshi Amit H. , Soares Paulo , Popat Ketul C.
Published: August 2023

Titanium and its alloys are commonly used to fabricate orthopedic implants due to their excellent mechanical properties, corrosion resistance, and biocompatibility. In recent years, orthopedic implant surgeries have considerably increased. This has also resulted in an increase in infection-associated revision surgeries for these implants. To combat this, various approaches are being investigated in the literature. One of the approaches is modifying the surface topography of implants and creating surfaces that are not only antifouling but also encourage osteointegration. Titania nanotube surfaces have demonstrated a moderate decrease in bacterial adhesion while encouraging mesenchymal stem cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation, and hence were used in this study. In this work, titania nanotube surfaces were fabricated using a simple anodization technique. These surfaces were further modified with copper using a physical vapor deposition technique, since copper is known to be potent against bacteria once in contact. In this study, scanning electron microscopy was used to evaluate surface topography; energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy were used to evaluate surface chemistry; contact angle goniometry was used to evaluate surface wettability; and X-ray diffraction was used to evaluate surface crystallinity. Antifouling behavior against a gram-positive and a gram-negative bacterium was also investigated. The results indicate that copper-modified titania nanotube surfaces display enhanced antifouling behavior when compared to other surfaces, and this may be a potential way to prevent infection in orthopedic implants.
Transversus Abdominis Ultrasound Thickness during Popular Trunk–Pilates Exercises in Young and Middle-Aged Women
Authors: Tsartsapakis Ioannis , Gerou Maria , Zafeiroudi Aglaia , Kellis Eleftherios
Published: August 2023

The transversus abdominis (TrA) is a core muscle that contributes to functional mobility and lumbar stability. This study aimed to compare the changes in TrA thickness during different Pilates exercises, and to identify the exercise that elicited the greatest TrA activation. Forty-four healthy women were divided into two groups: young (25–35 years old) and middle-aged (36–55 years old). TrA thickness was assessed by ultrasound while the participants performed five Pilates exercises: basic position, hundred, hip roll, side plank, and dead bug. A repeated measures analysis of variance revealed that the dead bug exercise induced a significantly higher increase in TrA thickness (relative to rest) than the other exercises (p < 0.05). The young group also showed a significantly higher overall TrA thickness than the middle-aged group (p < 0.05). The findings suggest that the dead bug exercise is the most effective for enhancing TrA activation among the Pilates exercises tested. The basic position and the hundred exercises can be used as warm-up exercises before performing more challenging exercises such as the hip roll, the side plank, and the dead bug. The sequence of exercises can be similar for both young and middle-aged women.
Efficiency in Kinesiology: Innovative Approaches in Enhancing Motor Skills for Athletic Performance
Authors: Sorgente Vincenzo , Minciacchi Diego
Published: August 2023

The inaugural edition of the Special Issue titled “Efficiency in Kinesiology: Innovative approaches in enhancing motor skills for Athletic Performance” has been effectively concluded [...]
Psammophaga secriensia sp. nov., a New Monothalamid Foraminifera (Protista, Rhizaria) from the Romanian Black Sea Shelf
Authors: Pavel Ana Bianca , Kreuter Sylvain , Holzmann Maria , Enache Alin , Motoc Rozalia , Pawlowski Jan
Published: August 2023

Based on molecular and morphological characters, we describe a new species of monothalamous foraminifera, Psammophaga secriensia sp. nov., that was sampled from two coastal locations (48 m and 53 m depth) on the Romanian Black Sea continental shelf. Molecular data further confirm its presence in the northeastern part of the Black Sea (Balaklava Bay, 5–10 m depth). Specimens of Psammophaga secriensia sp. nov. are characterized by an elongate to broadly pyriform test and a simple rounded aperture. The wall is translucent and the cytoplasm contains mineral grains of different sizes. The genus Psammophaga, including Psammophaga simplora and several undetermined morphotypes, has been reported from different areas of the Black Sea. Previous research using an integrative taxonomic approach has identified two additional species (Psammophaga zirconia; Psammophaga sp., Gooday et al., 2011) occurring in the Black Sea. Monothalamids are an important part of the meiobenthos in the Black Sea and our results increase the knowledge of foraminiferal diversity in this marginal sea.
Numerical Investigation of Uplift Failure Mode and Capacity Estimation for Deep Helical Anchors in Sand
Authors: Yuan Chi , Hao Dongxue , Chen Rong , Zhang Ning
Published: August 2023

The uplift capacity of helical anchors is generally taken as the control condition for design in different applications, including transmission tower foundations and offshore structures. However, it is difficult to identify the failure surface for a deep helical anchor, which may result in an incorrect assessment of uplift capability. This research proposes a new unified method to estimate the uplift capacity of deep single-helix and multi-helix anchors based on the investigation of failure mechanisms. The deep failure mode was identified by FEM analysis using a modified Mohr–Coulomb model considering the strain softening of sand, along with the coupled Eulerian–Lagrangian technique. Thereby, a simplified rupture surface is proposed, and the equations estimating the uplift capacity are presented by the limit equilibrium method. Two important factors—the lateral earth pressure coefficient and the average internal friction angle included in the equations—are discussed and determined. The comparisons with centrifugal tests verify the reasonability of the proposed method.
An Investigation of the Effectiveness of Deepfake Models and Tools
Authors: Mukta Md. Saddam Hossain , Ahmad Jubaer , Raiaan Mohaimenul Azam Khan , Islam Salekul , Azam Sami , Ali Mohammed Eunus , Jonkman Mirjam
Published: August 2023

With the development of computer vision and deep learning technologies, rapidly expanding approaches have been introduced that allow anyone to create videos and pictures that are both phony and incredibly lifelike. The term deepfake methodology is used to describe such technologies. Face alteration can be performed both in videos and pictures with extreme realism using deepfake innovation. Deepfake recordings, the majority of them targeting politicians or celebrity personalities, have been widely disseminated online. On the other hand, different strategies have been outlined in the research to combat the issues brought up by deepfake. In this paper, we carry out a review by analyzing and comparing (1) the notable research contributions in the field of deepfake models and (2) widely used deepfake tools. We have also built two separate taxonomies for deepfake models and tools. These models and tools are also compared in terms of underlying algorithms, datasets they have used and their accuracy. A number of challenges and open issues have also been identified.
A Challenge of Sustainable Urbanization: Mapping the Equity of Urban Public Facilities in Multiple Dimensions in Zhengzhou, China
Authors: Chang Mingyuan , Huang Longyang , Zhai Tianlin , Zhu Jiawei , Ma Yuanbo , Li Ling , Zhao Chenchen
Published: August 2023

The rapid urbanization and population growth in China have brought the issues of social equity and justice to the forefront. The supply and layout of public service facilities play a crucial role in determining the residents’ quality of life and have become a significant factor triggering social equity and justice concerns. This study took Zhengzhou’s urban core as an example. From the perspectives of regional equality, spatial equity, and social justice, the service area analysis and Gaussian two-step floating catchment area method were used to analyze the public service facilities’ layout situation and the equity and justice issue and to discuss the causes of the current situation. The study found that the social equity and justice of public facilities in Zhengzhou’s urban core were more prominent. The accessibility of public facilities inside and outside the 3rd ring road of the urban core exhibited marked differences, indicating a need for improvement in regional equality and spatial equity. Vulnerable groups lacked special care and public facilities lacked justice. Combined with the development process of urbanization in Zhengzhou, this paper argued that this was closely related to the government’s public policies.
Measuring the Urban Sprawl of a Mega-Urban Agglomeration Area Based on Multi-Dimensions with a Mechanical Equilibrium Model: A Case Study of the Yangtze River Delta, China
Authors: Jiang Yuneng , Zhu Yi , Tian Yasi
Published: August 2023

In the context of rapid urbanization, inefficient, disorderly, and low-density urban sprawl often leads to resource waste and ecological damage. Over the decades, many studies on the measurement, analysis, and governance of urban sprawl have emerged. However, existing approaches lack in-depth research on distinguishing effective expansion from inefficient sprawl. Given the limit of land use resources and the demand for urban development, an accurate and reasonable method for urban sprawl measurement is needed. This study proposes an urban sprawl identification method based on a mechanical equilibrium model to analyze the spatial distribution and spatiotemporal evolution characteristics of inefficient sprawl, using the Yangtze River Delta’s (YRD) urban agglomeration as an example. The study found the following: (1) The inefficient sprawl in the YRD was 5219, 1189, and 980 km2 in the three five-year periods between 2005 and 2020. (2) From 2005 to 2020, the inefficient sprawl in the YRD was, on the whole, a weakening trend, but Shanghai and Zhoushan showed an accelerating trend of inefficient sprawl. (3) The proposed method is applicable to most urban development patterns and provides implications for urban sprawl control in mega-urban agglomeration areas, such as the YRD.
Measuring the Spatial Match between Service Facilities and Population Distribution: Case of Lanzhou
Authors: Chen Yanbi , Zhang Zilong , Lang Lixia , Long Zhi , Wang Ningfei , Chen Xingpeng , Wang Bo , Li Ya
Published: August 2023

With rapid urbanization and population growth, achieving equitable distribution of urban facilities in the city center has become a critical research focus due to limited land space and high population density. In this study, we propose a technical method to measure the spatial matching between urban service facilities and population at the grid resolution scale, using Baidu heat map and POI data. The method includes spatial heterogeneity analysis and spatial matching analysis between population density and service facilities. We apply the method to the main urban area of Lanzhou, a valley-type city in the upper reaches of the Yellow River, and measure the spatial matching between service facilities and population aggregation. Our results reveal the distribution characteristics of various service facilities and population aggregation in different time slots, and demonstrate that transportation facilities have the highest spatial matching with population aggregation, followed by real estate and education services, with rental business services exhibiting the lowest. The proposed method offers a new perspective for urban planners and decision-makers to understand the matching state between residents’ activity patterns and service facilities. Our findings can provide theoretical support for urban planning and optimize the layout of service facilities and regional function allocation.
Optimization of the Residual Biomass Supply Chain: Process Characterization and Cost Analysis
Authors: Nunes Leonel J. R. , Silva Sandra
Published: August 2023

Background: This study investigates the vital significance of logistical cost optimization within the residual woody biomass supply chain, aiming to boost both sustainability and the efficient utilization of this resource. There is an emphasis on how adept cost management can determine the economic feasibility of exploiting residual biomass. Methods: The research delves into crucial areas including collection, transportation, storage, and processing of biomass, highlighting their respective roles in the total cost. The influence of factors such as seasonality and biomass quality variations on the supply chain's cost and efficiency is explored. To provide an in-depth analysis of these factors, mathematical models are presented that allow for the examination of a variety of scenarios and optimization strategies. Techniques such as linear programming, genetic algorithms, and tabu search are contextualized within these models. Results: The study provides in-sights into individual cost contributions of different logistical operations. It also reveals how seasonality and biomass quality variations directly affect the cost and efficacy of the supply chain. Conclusions: Proficient logistical cost management is crucial for the successful exploitation of residual biomass. The findings have substantial implications for managing the residual biomass supply chain, paving the way for a transition to a low-carbon economy.
(E)-2-(1,3-Diphenylallyl)-3,5-dimethoxyphenol
Authors: Mollà-Guerola Lara , Baeza Alejandro
Published: August 2023

The synthesis of (E)-2-(1,3-diphenylallyl)-3,5-dimethoxyphenol is described by means of the reaction of 3,5-dimethoxyphenol with (E)-1,3-diphenylprop-2-en-1-ol in 1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoroispropanol (HFIP), which acts as a solvent and reaction promoter. The reaction proceeds smoothly to afford the mentioned compound in high yield under a metal and additive-free procedure. The corresponding allylated phenol has been fully characterized.
Lithium-Ion Battery Modeling and State of Charge Prediction Based on Fractional-Order Calculus
Authors: Zhang Xinfeng , Li Xiangjun , Yang Kaikai , Wang Zhongyi
Published: August 2023

Predicting lithium-ion batteries’ state of charge (SOC) is essential to electric vehicle battery management systems. Traditional lithium-ion battery models mainly include equivalent circuit models (ECMs) and electrochemical models (EMs). ECMs are based on integer-order component modeling, which cannot characterize the internal electrochemical reaction mechanism of the battery, resulting in lower SOC prediction accuracy. In contrast, due to their complex structure, EMs are limited in their application. This study takes lithium batteries as the research object and proposes a fractional-order impedance model (FOIM) that characterizes the dynamic properties of the internal behavior of lithium-ion batteries using fractional-order elements. Considering the highly nonlinear characteristics of lithium-ion batteries, this study introduces the theory of fractional-order calculus into the extended Kalman filter (EKF) algorithm, and proposes the fractional-order extended Kalman filter (FEKF) algorithm applied to the prediction of battery charge state. Comparative analysis of simulation and experimental results shows that the accuracy of the FOIM, compared to ECMs, is significantly improved. The FEKF algorithm has good robustness in estimating the SOC, and the SOC prediction accuracy achieved with the algorithm is also improved compared with that obtained using the EKF algorithm of the integer-order model.
Editorial for the Special Issue “Analytical and Computational Methods in Differential Equations, Special Functions, Transmutations and Integral Transforms”
Authors: Sitnik Sergei
Published: August 2023

This editorial text is a short introductory guide to the book edition of the Special Issue “Analytical and Computational Methods in Differential Equations, Special Functions, Transmutations and Integral Transforms”, which was published in the MDPI journal Mathematics in the years 2022–2023 [...]
Microalgae: A Promising Source of Bioactive Phycobiliproteins
Authors: Tounsi Latifa , Ben Hlima Hajer , Hentati Faiez , Hentati Ons , Derbel Hana , Michaud Philippe , Abdelkafi Slim
Published: August 2023

Phycobiliproteins are photosynthetic light-harvesting pigments isolated from microalgae with fluorescent, colorimetric and biological properties, making them a potential commodity in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food industries. Hence, improving their metabolic yield is of great interest. In this regard, the present review aimed, first, to provide a detailed and thorough overview of the optimization of culture media elements, as well as various physical parameters, to improve the large-scale manufacturing of such bioactive molecules. The second section of the review offers systematic, deep and detailed data about the current main features of phycobiliproteins. In the ultimate section, the health and nutritional claims related to these bioactive pigments, explaining their noticeable potential for biotechnological uses in various fields, are examined.
Perioperative Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Support for Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome Aggravated by Hepatopulmonary Syndrome in Deceased Donor Liver Transplantation: A Case Report
Authors: Choi So Ron , Lee Seung Cheol , Lee Tae Young , Jung Ji Wook , Kim Min A , Park Sang Yoong
Published: August 2023

Background: Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is an accommodation of the cardiopulmonary bypass technique that can support gas exchange and hemodynamic stability. It is used as a salvage maneuver in patients with life-threatening respiratory or cardiac failure that does not respond to conventional treatment. There are few case reports of successful perioperative use of ECMO, especially preoperatively, in liver transplantation (LT). Here, we report an experience of successful anesthetic management in deceased donor liver transplantation (DDLT) by applying perioperative veno-venous (VV) ECMO support in the setting of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) aggravated by hepatopulmonary syndrome (HPS). Case: A 25-year-old female (156.0 cm, 65.0 kg), without any underlying disease, was referred to our emergency department for decreased mentality. Based on imaging and laboratory tests, she was diagnosed with acute liver failure of unknown cause combined with severe ARDS aggravated by HPS. Since the patient faced life-threatening hypoxemia with a failure of conventional ventilation maneuvers, preoperative VV ECMO was initiated and maintained during the operation. The patient remained hemodynamically stable throughout DDLT, and ARDS showed gradual improvement after the administration of VV ECMO. As ARDS improved, the patient’s condition alleviated, and VV ECMO was weaned on postoperative day 6. Conclusions: This case demonstrates that VV ECMO may be a useful therapeutic option not only during the intraoperative and postoperative periods but also in the preoperative period for patients with liver failure combined with reversible respiratory failure.
Diagnosis and Surgical Management of Insulinomas—A 23-Year Single-Center Experience
Authors: Hoskovec David , Krška Zdeněk , Škrha Jan , Klobušický Pavol , Dytrych Petr
Published: August 2023

Background and Objectives: Insulinoma is a rare tumor of the Langerhans islets of the pancreas. It produces insulin and causes severe hypoglycemia with neuroglycopenic symptoms. The incidence is low, at about 1–2 per 1 million inhabitants per year. The diagnosis is based on the presence of Whipple’s triad and the result of a fasting test. Surgery is the treatment of choice. Objectives: A retrospective observational study of patients operated on for insulinoma in our hospital focused on the diagnosis, the type of surgery, and complications. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed patients operated on due to insulinoma. There were 116 surgeries between 2000 and 2022. There were 79 females and 37 males in this group. A fasting test and a CT examination were performed on all the patients. Results: The average duration of the fasting test was 18 h. Insulinoma was found in the body and tail of the pancreas in more than half of the patients. Enucleation was the most frequent type of surgery. Complications that were Clavien Dindo grade III or more occurred in 18% of the patients. The most frequent complications were abscesses and pancreatic fistula. Five patients had malignant insulinoma. Conclusions: Surgery is the treatment of choice in the case of insulinomas. The enucleation of the tumor is a sufficient treatment for benign insulinomas, which are not in contact with the main pancreatic duct. Due to the low incidence of the condition, the centralization of patients is recommended.
Evolution of Microstructure and Hardness of TC11 Titanium Alloy under Different Electroshocking Treatment Directions
Authors: Liu Chang , Wu Yongjian , Wang Haoxing , Yin Fei , Qian Dongsheng , Wang Liqiang , Xie Lechun , Hua Lin
Published: August 2023

The effects of electroshocking treatment (EST) direction on microstructure and hardness of TC11 alloy (Ti-6.5Al-3.5Mo-1.5Zr-0.3Si) were investigated. The results indicated that the temperature of specimens under EST along the transverse direction (T-EST) was higher than that under EST along the vertical direction (V-EST). The studies reveal the higher quantity of needle-like α martensite (αM) phases precipitated in the specimen in the case of T-EST as compared with V-EST, with a more uniform distribution of αM phases. The average Vickers hardness of specimens under T-EST and V-EST with 0.06 s were 349.3 HV and 360.8 HV, respectively, which showed an obvious increase compared to the untreated specimen. The increase in hardness was ascribed to the dispersion strengthening of needle-like αM phase, and the dispersion strengthening effect on the specimen under T-EST with 0.06 s was more obvious than on the other specimens, which was caused by a large number of evenly distributed nucleation areas for the precipitation of the αM phase and uniform distribution of the αM phase. The results indicate that a different treatment direction of EST can promote the formation of different microstructures in TC11 alloy, which demonstrates that the effect of EST cannot be simply equated with heat treatment at the same temperature.
Effect of Rubidium on Solidification Parameters, Structure and Operational Characteristics of Eutectic Al-Si Alloy
Authors: Petrov Igor A. , Shlyaptseva Anastasiya D. , Ryakhovsky Alexandr P. , Medvedeva Elena V. , Tcherdyntsev Victor V.
Published: August 2023

Modification of the eutectic silicon in Al–Si alloys causes a structural transformation of the silicon phase from a needle-like to a fine fibrous morphology and is carried out extensively in the industry to improve mechanical properties of the alloys. The theories and mechanisms explaining the eutectic modification in Al–Si alloys are considered. We discuss the mechanism of eutectic rubidium modification in the light of experimental data obtained via quantitative X-ray spectral microanalysis and thermal analysis. X-ray mapping revealed that rubidium, which theoretically satisfies the adsorption mechanisms of silicon modification, had an effect on the silicon growth during solidification. Rubidium was distributed relatively homogeneously in the silicon phase. Microstructural studies have shown that rubidium effectively refines eutectic silicon, changing its morphology. Modification with rubidium extends the solidification range due to a decrease in the solidus temperature. The highest level of mechanical properties of the alloy under study was obtained with rubidium content in the range of 0.007–0.01%. We concluded that rubidium may be used as a modifier in Al-Si eutectic and pre-eutectic alloys. The duration of the modifying effect of rubidium in the Al-12wt%Si alloy melt and porosity in the alloy modified with rubidium were evaluated.
Synovial Fluid Metabolome Can Differentiate between Healthy Joints and Joints Affected by Osteoarthritis in Horses
Authors: Laus Fulvio , Gialletti Rodolfo , Bazzano Marilena , Laghi Luca , Dini Fabrizio , Marchegiani Andrea
Published: August 2023

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common cause of lameness in sport horses with a significant economic impact. The prevention of OA is crucial since no effective treatment is available. This study aimed to apply untargeted metabolomic analysis to investigate the differences in synovial fluid (SF) composition between healthy and OA-affected joints in horses. SF collected from healthy (n.8) and OA (n.11) horses was analyzed using H-NMR analysis. Metabolomic analysis allowed 55 different metabolites to be identified and quantified in SF samples. Nineteen metabolites were found to be differently concentrated in OA compared to control horses. Synovial fluids from the OC group were found to be higher in 1,3-dihydroxyacetone but lower in tryptophan, phenylalanine, tyrosine, uridine, creatinine, creatine, glycine, choline, asparagine, glutamine, arginine, 3-hydroxybutyrate, valine, 2-hydroxyisovalerate, α-ketoisovaleric acid, 3-methyl-2-oxovalerate, 3-hydroxyisobutyrate, isoleucine, and methionine compared to the controls. A variety of SF metabolites significantly changed following joint disease, demonstrating the complex mechanism underlying osteoarthritis in horses and highlighting the value of applying the metabolomic approach in clinical research.
Vitamin D Deficiency in Obese Children Is Associated with Some Metabolic Syndrome Components, but Not with Metabolic Syndrome Itself
Authors: Hofman-Hutna Jagoda , Hutny Michał , Matusik Edyta , Olszanecka-Glinianowicz Magdalena , Matusik Pawel
Published: August 2023

Vitamin D deficiency in children is a common nutritional issue in many populations worldwide, associated not only with skeletal malformations but, as recent studies suggest, also with the development of obesity and metabolic syndrome. The aim of this observational study was to assess the nutritional status of vitamin D in a group of Polish children with obesity and different grades of metabolic syndrome, with a consequent analysis of the correlation between vitamin D levels and the components of metabolic syndrome. For that purpose, the group of 78 participants (mean age: 14.18 ± 2.67 years) was recruited and further grouped in relation to vitamin D status into two groups of children with and without vitamin D deficiency. The biochemical parameters associated with obesity as well as anthropometric measures were assessed and analysed in search of significant differences between the groups. In the current group of children with obesity and vitamin D deficiency, HDL (45.00 ± 9.29) and adiponectin (7.21 ± 1.64) were found to be significantly lower than in their peers without vitamin D deficiency, whereas W/HtR (0.60 ± 0.04) and TG (171.31 ± 80.75) levels proved to be significantly higher. Body composition analysis using bioelectrical impedance returned no significant findings. The above findings suggest that vitamin D deficiency may influence lipid and glucose metabolism in children, leading to the development of abnormalities characteristic of the metabolic syndrome. A W/HtR parameter was shown to be a sensitive marker of abdominal obesity, which might provide an important means of assessing the correlation between vitamin D and this type of obesity. Independently, vitamin D deficiency may also influence the endocrinological function of adipose tissue, leading to lower concentrations of adiponectin. These in turn presented a linear correlation with the high results of the OGTT in the second hour of the test, hinting at its potential role in the pathophysiology of insulin resistance.
The Intersection of Metabolomics and Data Science
Authors: Kim Seongho
Published: August 2023

Metabolomics generates a vast amount of data and heavily relies on data science for biological interpretation [...]
Population Knowledge and Practices and the Prevalence of Trypanosomes Circulating in Domestic Animals in Three Active Human African Trypanosomiasis Foci in the Republic of Congo
Authors: Bemba Irina , Lenga Arsene , Awono-Ambene Herman Parfait , Antonio-Nkondjio Christophe
Published: August 2023

Human African Trypanosomiasis (HAT) is still endemic in the Republic of Congo. Although the incidence of cases has significantly decreased over years, the disease still persists in some active foci. Factors contributing to the maintenance of the disease such as the existence of an animal reservoir or population knowledge are still not well known. It is in this context that a study focusing on the knowledge and practices of the population with regard to HAT as well as on the prevalence of trypanosomes infecting animals was undertaken in three active HAT foci in the Republic of Congo. The study was performed using field surveys conducted from November 2019 to June 2021. Domestic animal blood was examined by microscopy and PCR to detect the presence of trypanosomes. A structured questionnaire was administered to the population to assess their knowledge and practices concerning HAT in these endemic foci. More than half of the animals examined were found to be infected with trypanosomes (51.22%). The main trypanosome species infecting animals were Trypanosoma congolense savannah (67.2%) and Trypanosoma brucei (s.l.) (32.8%). No trypanosomes infecting humans were detected. Concerning household surveys, more than half of the respondents (52.9%) were fully aware of the mode of transmission and symptoms of the disease. The majority of people preferred to wear clothes covering the whole body and to use locally made soap as repellents to protect themselves from tsetse fly bites. This study suggests frequent circulation of animal trypanosomes in domestic animals and the use of personal measures to protect against tsetse fly bites. Updating information on the HAT animal reservoir and population knowledge alongside regular monitoring of the tsetse fly populations and the use of traps to control tsetse flies are crucial to drive efforts towards the elimination of gHAT in the Republic of Congo.
The Peritectic Reaction of Olivine as the Mechanism of the Ultrabasic–Basic Evolution of the Diamond-Forming Silicate-Carbonate-(C-O-H) System: Experiments at 6.0 GPa
Authors: Litvin Yuriy A. , Kuzyura Anastasiya V. , Spivak Anna V.
Published: August 2023

Melting phase relations of the diamond-forming olivine (Ol)–jadeite (Jd)–diopside (Di)–(Mg, Fe, Ca, Na)-carbonates (Carb)–(C-O-H-fluid) system are studied in experiments at 6.0 GPa in the polythermal Ol74Carb18.5(C-O-H)7.5-Omp74Carb18.5(C-O-H)7.5 section, where Ol = Fo80Fa20, Omp (omphacite) = Jd62Di38 and Carb = (MgCO3)25(FeCO3)25(CaCO3)25(Na2CO3)25. The peritectic reaction of olivine and jadeite-bearing melts with formation of garnet has been determined as a physico-chemical mechanism of the ultrabasic–basic evolution of the diamond-forming system. During the process, the CO2 component of the supercritical C-O-H-fluid can react with silicate components to form additional carbonates of Mg, Fe, Ca and Na. The solidus temperature of the diamond-forming system is lowered to 1000–1020 °C by the joint effect of the H2O fluid and its carbonate constituents. The experimentally recognized peritectic mechanism of the ultrabasic–basic evolution of the diamond-forming system explains the origin of associated paragenetic inclusions of peridotite and eclogite minerals in diamonds, as well as the xenoliths of diamond-bearing peridotites and eclogites of kimberlitic deposits of diamond. Diamond-forming systems have formed with the use of material from upper mantle native peridotite rocks. In this case, the capacity of the rocks to initiate the peritectic reaction of olivine was transmitted with silicate components to diamond-forming systems.