bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
B-cell targeted therapies in autoimmune encephalitis: mechanisms, clinical applications, and therapeutic potential
Authors: Shang Haodong , Shen Xinru , Yu Xiaoxiao , Zhang Jing , Jia Yongliang , Gao Feng
Published: March 2024

Autoimmune encephalitis (AE) broadly refers to inflammation of the brain parenchyma mediated by autoimmune mechanisms. In most patients with AE, autoantibodies against neuronal cell surface antigens are produced by B-cells and induce neuronal dysfunction through various mechanisms, ultimately leading to disease progression. In recent years, B-cell targeted therapies, including monoclonal antibody (mAb) therapy and chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy, have been widely used in autoimmune diseases. These therapies decrease autoantibody levels in patients and have shown favorable results. This review summarizes the mechanisms underlying these two B-cell targeted therapies and discusses their clinical applications and therapeutic potential in AE. Our research provides clinicians with more treatment options for AE patients whose conventional treatments are not effective.
Deciphering the molecular landscape: integrating single-cell transcriptomics to unravel myofibroblast dynamics and therapeutic targets in clear cell renal cell carcinomas
Authors: Zhou Wenqian , Lin Zhiheng , Tan Wang
Published: March 2024

Background

Clear cell renal cell carcinomas (ccRCCs) epitomize the most formidable clinical subtype among renal neoplasms. While the impact of tumor-associated fibroblasts on ccRCC progression is duly acknowledged, a paucity of literature exists elucidating the intricate mechanisms and signaling pathways operative at the individual cellular level.

Methods

Employing single-cell transcriptomic analysis, we meticulously curated UMAP profiles spanning substantial ccRCC populations, delving into the composition and intrinsic signaling pathways of these cohorts. Additionally, Myofibroblasts were fastidiously categorized into discrete subpopulations, with a thorough elucidation of the temporal trajectory relationships between these subpopulations. We further probed the cellular interaction pathways connecting pivotal subpopulations with tumors. Our endeavor also encompassed the identification of prognostic genes associated with these subpopulations through Bulk RNA-seq, subsequently validated through empirical experimentation.

Results

A notable escalation in the nFeature and nCount of Myofibroblasts and EPCs within ccRCCs was observed, notably enriched in oxidation-related pathways. This phenomenon is postulated to be closely associated with the heightened metabolic activities of Myofibroblasts and EPCs. The Myofibroblasts subpopulation, denoted as C3 HMGA1+ Myofibroblasts, emerges as a pivotal subset, displaying low differentiation and positioning itself at the terminal point of the temporal trajectory. Intriguingly, these cells exhibit a high degree of interaction with tumor cells through the MPZ signaling pathway network, suggesting that Myofibroblasts may facilitate tumor progression via this pathway. Prognostic genes associated with C3 were identified, among which TUBB3 is implicated in potential resistance to tumor recurrence. Finally, experimental validation revealed that the knockout of the key gene within the MPZ pathway, MPZL1, can inhibit tumor activity, proliferation, invasion, and migration capabilities.

Conclusion

This investigation delves into the intricate mechanisms and interaction pathways between Myofibroblasts and ccRCCs at the single-cell level. We propose that targeting MPZL1 and the oxidative phosphorylation pathway could serve as potential key targets for treating the progression and recurrence of ccRCC. This discovery paves the way for new directions in the treatment and prognosis diagnosis of ccRCC in the future.
Equity zombies in Canada’s blue economy: a critical feminist analysis for equitable policy implementation
Authors: Knott Christine , Fusco Leah M. , Daly Jack , Andrews Evan , Singh Gerald Gurinder
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Ocean equity is a key aim of blue economy frameworks globally and is a pillar of the international High Level Panel for A Sustainable Ocean Economy. However, the Panel offers only a general definition of ocean equity, with limited guidance for countries. Canada, as a party to the High Level Panel’s blue economy agenda, is developing its own blue economy strategy, seeking to reshape its ocean-based industries and advocate for new ones. How equity will be incorporated across scales is not yet known but has implications for how countries like Canada will develop their ocean-based industries. This raises important questions, including what are Canada’s equity commitments in relation to its blue economy and how will they be met? Currently, the industries identified in Canada’s emerging blue economy narratives are governed through both federal and provincial legislation and policies. These will shape how equity is implemented at different scales.

Methods

In this paper, we examine how the term equity is defined in relevant federal and provincial legislation and look to how understandings of equity found in critical feminist, environmental justice, and climate justice scholarship could inform policy and its implementation within Canada’s blue economy. We focus on two industries that are important for Canada’s blue economy: offshore oil and marine salmon aquaculture in the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador. We investigate how existing legislation and policy shapes the characterization, incorporation, and implementation of equity in these industries.

Results and discussion

Our analysis highlights how a cohesive approach to ocean equity across the scales of legislation and policy is needed to ensure more robust engagement with social and environmental equity issues in blue economy discourse and implementation.
Effects of two typical quinolone antibiotics in the marine environment on Skeletonema costatum
Authors: Lin Yuxin , Li Tiejun , Zhang Yurong
Published: March 2024

This study investigated the effects of levofloxacin (LEV) and norfloxacin (NOR) on Skeletonema costatum, focusing on cell growth, chlorophyll a (Chla) content, maximal quantum yield of PSII (Fv/Fm), protein content, enzyme activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione reductase (GR), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX), and the membrane lipid peroxidation product malondialdehyde (MDA) content were conducted to analyze the responses of S. costatum under LEV and NOR exposure. Cell growth, Chla content, Fv/Fm, protein content, enzyme activities, and MDA content were assessed to elucidate physiological changes. Both LEV and NOR inhibited S. costatum growth, except for 10 mg/L NOR, which promoted growth. Algal cells exhibited higher sensitivity to LEV, with 96h-IC50 values of 14.770 mg/L for LEV and 44.250 mg/L for NOR. Low NOR concentration (10 mg/L) increased Chla content, while high antibiotic concentrations (>20 mg/L for LEV, >100 mg/L for NOR) decreased Chla content and Fv/Fm, indicating an impact on photosynthesis. Elevated LEV and NOR levels reduced protein and MDA content but increased GR, SOD, and GSH activities, indicating induced oxidative stress. The study provides a comprehensive analysis of LEV and NOR effects on marine microalgae growth and underlying physiological mechanisms, shedding light on potential ecological risks posed by antibiotics in marine ecosystems.
Microbial community diversity of an integrated constructed wetland used for treatment of sewage
Authors: Seth Nidhi , Vats Sharad , Lakhanpaul Suman , Arafat Yasir , Mazumdar-Leighton Sudeshna , Bansal Mansi , Babu C. R.
Published: March 2024

The microbial community diversity in Constructed Wetland System (CWS) plays a key role in the removal of pollutants from waste water. An integrated functional CWS developed at Neela Hauz Biodiversity Park, Delhi was selected to assess the diversity in composition and structure of microbial community diversity of sludge and sediment of CWS, based on metagenomic approach using 16S rRNA genes. The sediment showed higher diversity than sludge and both formed distinct clusters. The taxonomic structure of the microbial community of CWS is represented by 6,731 OTUs distributed among 2 kingdoms, 103 phyla, 227 classes, 337 orders, 320 families, 295 identified genera, and 84 identified species. The relative abundance of top 5 dominant phyla of sludge and sediment varied from 3.77% (Acidobacteria) to 35.33% (Proteobacteria) and 4.07% (Firmicutes) to 28.20% (Proteobacteria), respectively. The range of variation in relative abundance of top 5 dominant genera of sludge and sediment was 2.58% (Hyphomicrobium) to 6.61% (Planctomyces) and 2.47% (Clostridium) to 4.22% (Syntrophobacter), respectively. The rich microbial diversity of CWS makes it perform better in pollutants removal (59.91–95.76%) than other CWs. Based on the abundance values of taxa, the taxa are grouped under four frequency distribution classes—abundant (>20), common (10–19), rare (5–9), and very rare (1–4). The unique structure of microbial communities of integrated CWS is that the number of abundant taxa decreases in descending order of taxonomic hierarchy, while the number of rare and very rare taxa increases. For example, the number of abundant phyla was 14 and 21 in sludge and sediment, respectively and both communities have only 3 abundant genera each. This is in contrast to 4 and 17 very rare phyla in sludge and sediment, respectively and both the communities have 114 and 91 very rare genera, respectively. The outcomes of the study is that the integrated CWS has much higher microbial community diversity than the diversity reported for other CWs, and the rich diversity can be used for optimizing the performance efficiency of CWS in the removal of pollutants from waste water. Such structural diversity might be an adaptation to heterogeneous environment of CWS.
Exploring the role of in-patient magnetic resonance imaging use among admitted ischemic stroke patients in improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare resource utilization
Authors: Kumar Mukesh , Beyea Steven , Hu Sherry , Kamal Noreen
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Despite the diagnostic and etiological significance of in-patient MRI in ischemic stroke (IS), its utilization is considered resource-intensive, expensive, and thus limiting feasibility and relevance. This study investigated the utilization of in-patient MRI for IS patients and its impact on patient and healthcare resource utilization outcomes.

Methods

This retrospective registry-based study analyzed 1,956 IS patients admitted to Halifax’s QEII Health Centre between 2015 and 2019. Firstly, temporal trends of MRI and other neuroimaging utilization were evaluated. Secondly, we categorized the cohort into two groups (MRI vs. No MRI; in addition to a non-contrast CT) and investigated adjusted differences in patient outcomes at admission, discharge, and post-discharge using logistic regression. Additionally, we analyzed healthcare resource utilization using Poisson log-linear regression. Furthermore, patient outcomes significantly associated with MRI use underwent subgroup analysis for stroke severity (mild stroke including transient ischemic attack vs. moderate and severe stroke) and any acute stage treatment (thrombolytic or thrombectomy or both vs. no treatment) subgroups, while using an age and sex-adjusted logistic regression model.

Results

MRI was used in 40.5% patients; non-contrast CT in 99.3%, CT angiogram in 61.8%, and CT perfusion in 50.3%. Higher MRI utilization was associated with male sex, younger age, mild stroke, wake-up stroke, and no thrombolytic or thrombectomy treatment. MRI use was independently associated with lower in-hospital mortality (adjusted OR, 0.23; 95% CI, 0.15–0.36), lower symptomatic neurological status changes (0.64; 0.43–0.94), higher home discharge (1.32; 1.07–1.63), good functional outcomes at discharge (mRS score 0–2) (1.38; 1.11–1.72), lower 30-day stroke re-admission rates (0.48; 0.26–0.89), shorter hospital stays (regression coefficient, 0.92; 95% CI, 0.90–0.94), and reduced direct costs of hospitalization (0.90; 0.89–0.91). Subgroup analysis revealed significantly positive association of MRI use with most patient outcomes in moderate and severe strokes subgroup and non-acutely treated subgroup. Conversely, outcomes in mild strokes (including TIAs) subgroup and acute treatment subgroup were comparable regardless of MRI use.

Conclusion

A substantial proportion of admitted IS patients underwent MRI, and MRI use was associated with improved patient outcomes and reduced healthcare resource utilization. Considering the multifactorial nature of IS patient outcomes, further randomized controlled trials are suggested to investigate the role of increased MRI utilization in optimizing in-patient IS management.
Hemimasticatory spasm: a series of 17 cases and a comprehensive review of the literature
Authors: Yoshida Kazuya
Published: March 2024

Hemimasticatory spasm (HMS) is a rare movement disorder characterized by paroxysmal spasms or twitches of the unilateral jaw-closing muscles. This study aimed to comprehensively evaluate the clinical features of patients with HMS. Data from 17 patients newly diagnosed with HMS (12 females and 5 males; mean age at onset: 46.7 years) who visited our department were retrospectively analyzed, and a literature search based on electronic medical databases from their inception until November 30, 2023, was conducted. A manual search was conducted for articles cited in the related literature. A total of 117 cases (72 females and 45 males; mean age at onset: 37.1 years) from 57 studies were analyzed. The muscles involved were the masseter (97.4%), temporalis (47.9%), and medial pterygoid (6%). Morphea or scleroderma was observed in 23.9% of the patients, and facial hemiatrophy in 27.4%. In 17.9% of the cases, Parry–Romberg syndrome was either complicated or suspected. Typical electromyographic findings included the absence of a silent period during spasms (23.9%) and irregular brief bursts of multiple motor unit potentials. Oral medicines, such as clonazepam or carbamazepine, alleviated the symptoms for some patients but were often unsatisfactory. Botulinum toxin therapy was effective in most cases. Recently, microvascular decompression surgery is increasingly being used, resulting in complete relief in some cases. In conclusion, highly effective modalities are currently available, and it is necessary to raise awareness of HMS to ensure that it can be diagnosed and treated accurately by both medical and dental professionals.
Clinical value of TAT, PIC and t-PAIC as predictive markers for severe sepsis in pediatric patients
Authors: Bai Huan , Shen Ling , Zhang Hailong , Tang Ning
Published: March 2024

Objective

Sepsis in pediatric patients can progress to severe sepsis, and identifying biomarkers of this progression may permit timely intervention to prevent it. This study aimed to investigate the ability of thrombin-antithrombin complex (TAT), α2-plasmininhibitor-plasmin complex (PIC) and tissue-type plasminogen activator-inhibitor complex (t-PAIC) to predict severe sepsis in pediatrics early.

Methods

148 eligible pediatric sepsis patients were enrolled in this study, and were then divided into those who progressed to severe sepsis (n = 50) or not (n = 98). Serum levels of TAT, PIC, and t-PAIC were analysed, and simplified pediatric critical illness score (PCIS) and DIC score were calculated on the day of pediatric sepsis diagnosis.

Results

Compared with sepsis patients, severe sepsis patients had higher levels of TAT, PIC and t-PAIC. Correlation analysis revealed that TAT, PIC and t-PAIC were significantly correlated with simplified PCIS and DIC score. ROC curve analysis suggested that TAT, PIC and t-PAIC could serve as biomarkers for predicting severe sepsis with the AUC up to 0.862, 0.759 and 0.851, respectively. Stratified analysis demonstrated that the patients with increased levels of TAT, PIC and t-PAIC had worse illness severity and clinical outcome. Univariate logistic regression analysis revealed that TAT, PIC and t-PAIC were all risk factors for severe sepsis, yet only TAT and t-PAIC were independent risk factors in multivariate model.

Conclusions

TAT, PIC and t-PAIC could serve as biomarkers for predicting severe sepsis, and correlated with illness severity in pediatrics, what's more, serum levels of TAT and t-PAIC may be independent risk factors for pediatric severe sepsis.
Resveratrol and vascular health: evidence from clinical studies and mechanisms of actions related to its metabolites produced by gut microbiota
Authors: Godos Justyna , Romano Giovanni Luca , Gozzo Lucia , Laudani Samuele , Paladino Nadia , Dominguez Azpíroz Irma , Martínez López Nohora Milena , Giampieri Francesca , Quiles José L. , Battino Maurizio , Galvano Fabio , Drago Filippo , Grosso Giuseppe
Published: March 2024

Cardiovascular diseases are among the leading causes of mortality worldwide, with dietary factors being the main risk contributors. Diets rich in bioactive compounds, such as (poly)phenols, have been shown to potentially exert positive effects on vascular health. Among them, resveratrol has gained particular attention due to its potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action. Nevertheless, the results in humans are conflicting possibly due to interindividual different responses. The gut microbiota, a complex microbial community that inhabits the gastrointestinal tract, has been called out as potentially responsible for modulating the biological activities of phenolic metabolites in humans. The present review aims to summarize the main findings from clinical trials on the effects of resveratrol interventions on endothelial and vascular outcomes and review potential mechanisms interesting the role of gut microbiota on the metabolism of this molecule and its cardioprotective metabolites. The findings from randomized controlled trials show contrasting results on the effects of resveratrol supplementation and vascular biomarkers without dose-dependent effect. In particular, studies in which resveratrol was integrated using food sources, i.e., red wine, reported significant effects although the resveratrol content was, on average, much lower compared to tablet supplementation, while other studies with often extreme resveratrol supplementation resulted in null findings. The results from experimental studies suggest that resveratrol exerts cardioprotective effects through the modulation of various antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-hypertensive pathways, and microbiota composition. Recent studies on resveratrol-derived metabolites, such as piceatannol, have demonstrated its effects on biomarkers of vascular health. Moreover, resveratrol itself has been shown to improve the gut microbiota composition toward an anti-inflammatory profile. Considering the contrasting findings from clinical studies, future research exploring the bidirectional link between resveratrol metabolism and gut microbiota as well as the mediating effect of gut microbiota in resveratrol effect on cardiovascular health is warranted.
Leaf nutrient traits of planted forests demonstrate a heightened sensitivity to environmental changes compared to natural forests
Authors: Zhang Xing , Yu Mengyao , Su Jianxiao , Xu Jiali , Zhang Xueting , Shang Jinlong , Gao Jie
Published: March 2024

Leaf nutrient content (nitrogen, phosphorus) and their stoichiometric ratio (N/P) as key functional traits can reflect plant survival strategies and predict ecosystem productivity responses to environmental changes. Previous research on leaf nutrient traits has primarily focused on the species level with limited spatial scale, making it challenging to quantify the variability and influencing factors of forest leaf nutrient traits on a macro scale. This study, based on field surveys and literature collected from 2005 to 2020 on 384 planted forests and 541 natural forests in China, investigates the differences in leaf nutrient traits between forest types (planted forests, natural forests) and their driving factors. Results show that leaf nutrient traits (leaf nitrogen content (LN), leaf phosphorus content (LP), and leaf N/P ratio) of planted forests are significantly higher than those of natural forests (P< 0.05). The impact of climatic and soil factors on the variability of leaf nutrient traits in planted forests is greater than that in natural forests. With increasing forest age, natural forests significantly increase in leaf nitrogen and phosphorus content, with a significant decrease in N/P ratio (P< 0.05). Climatic factors are key environmental factors dominating the spatial variability of leaf nutrient traits. They not only directly affect leaf nutrient traits of planted and natural forest communities but also indirectly through regulation of soil nutrients and stand factors, with their direct effects being more significant than their indirect effects.
Determinants of automatic age and race bias: ingroup-outgroup distinction salience moderates automatic evaluations of social groups
Authors: Heitmann Stephanie , Reichardt Regina
Published: March 2024

Introduction

The present research investigates whether ingroup-outgroup distinction salience moderates automatic intergroup bias (i.e., more positive evaluations of ingroup targets relative to outgroup targets) toward multiply categorizable social targets.

Methods

In two experiments, we manipulated the salience of participants’ social identity based on age vs. race, respectively. Afterwards, we measured automatic evaluations of social targets varying in age and race.

Results

Young White participants exhibited higher automatic race bias when their racial identity (i.e., White in contrast to Black) was salient. Conversely, they exhibited higher automatic age bias when their age identity (i.e., young in contrast to old) was salient.

Discussion

Going beyond previous research, we show that it is sufficient to direct participants’ attention to their ingroup-identity in contrast to the respective outgroup to cause changes in automatic intergroup bias. This is important because it provides a strong test of the hypothesis that ingroup-outgroup distinction salience moderates automatic intergroup bias.
Treatment of depression during pregnancy: a protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Junkes Larissa , Gherman Bruno Rabinovici , Appolinario Jose Carlos , Nardi Antonio Egidio
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a chronic, recurrent, and highly prevalent disease that is associated with significant functional disability. During pregnancy, the prevalence of the disease is approximately 20%, with 12% of these, requiring treatment to avoid important negative consequences for the mother-baby binomial. Risk-benefit assessment of the use of antidepressants during pregnancy is mandatory, in addition to knowledge of the long-term effects of prenatal exposure to these drugs in the offspring. In this study, we will perform an updated systematic review and meta-analysis to explore the treatment of depression during pregnancy, along with its effectiveness, safety, and possible harm to women and children.

Materials and methods

We will search for publications in the following databases: Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, Lilacs, and PsycINFO. The reference lists of the included studies will be manually reviewed to identify potentially relevant studies. There will be no restrictions on language or date of publication. Quality assessment of the included studies will be performed independently according to the Cochrane Risk of Bias (RoB2) instrument. To assess the certainty of the findings’ body of evidence, we will use the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology. This study aimed to ascertain the efficacy and safety of antidepressants in pregnant women and children.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval was not required as individual patient data were not collected. Dissemination: Plan to publish a systematic review in an open-access medical journal at the end of the process.

Systematic Review Registration

PROSPERO, CRD42023447694.
Leveraging neuroscience education to address stigma related to opioid use disorder in the community: a pilot study
Authors: Kyzar Evan J. , Arbuckle Melissa R. , Abba-Aji Adam , Balachandra Krishna , Cooper Joseph , Dela Cruz Adriane , Edens Ellen , Heward Brady , Jibson Michael , Jordan Ayana , Moreno-De-Luca Daniel , Pazderka Hannah , Singh Mohit , Weleff Jeremy J. , Yau Bernice , Young Justin , Ross David A.
Published: March 2024

Opioid use disorder (OUD) and overdose deaths are a public health crisis. One contributing factor is stigma towards people who use opioids. We developed and conducted a public-facing, half-day educational event designed to challenge misperceptions about OUD from a contemporary neuroscience perspective. Participants engaged with three different resources on the neurobiology of addiction, and, at the end of the event, they rated its effectiveness. We also collected and compared pre- and post-event composite OUD stigma scales. Participants rated our approach and the overall event as highly effective. Additionally, OUD stigma scores were lower immediately following the event, and this decrease was primarily driven by decreased internalized stigma. Here, we demonstrate an effective proof-of-concept that an accessible, public-facing, neuroscience education event may reduce OUD stigma in the community.
Network analysis of depression and anxiety symptoms and their associations with life satisfaction among Chinese hypertensive older adults: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Ma Hongfei , Zhao Meng , Liu Yangyang , Wei Pingmin
Published: March 2024

Background

Hypertension is one of the most prevalent chronic diseases among the older adult population in China and older adults with hypertension are more susceptible to mental health problems. This study aimed to explore the network structure of depression and anxiety, and their association with life satisfaction (LS) in older adults with hypertension.

Methods

A total of 4,993 hypertensive individuals aged 60 and above were selected from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS 2017–2018). The design of the CLHLS study was approved by the Campus Institutional Review Board of Duke University (Pro00062871) and the Biomedical Ethics Committee of Peking University (IRB00001052-13,074). The Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale-10 (CESD-10) and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale-7 (GAD-7) were used to assess depressive and anxiety symptoms. Central and bridge symptoms were identified via “Expected Influence” and “Bridge Expected Influence”, respectively. Network stability was assessed using the case-dropping bootstrap technique.

Results

Network analysis identified CESD3 (Feeling blue/depressed), GAD4 (Trouble relaxing), and GAD2 (Uncontrollable worry) as the most influential central symptoms in the network of depression and anxiety. Concurrently, GAD1 (Nervousness or anxiety), CESD10 (Sleep disturbances), and CESD1 (Feeling bothered) stand as critical bridge symptoms between depression and anxiety disorders. Moreover, CESD7 (Lack of happiness) exhibited the strongest negative correlation with LS in Chinese hypertensive older adults.

Conclusion

This exploratory study represents the first investigation to examine the mutual relationship between depressive and anxiety symptoms among Chinese hypertensive older adults. Interventions addressing targeting bridge symptoms have the potential to alleviate depressive and anxiety symptoms. Furthermore, improving happiness, hope, and sleep quality in this population may mitigate the adverse effects of depression and anxiety on LS.
Validation of satellite water products based on HYPERNETS in situ data using a Match-up Database (MDB) file structure
Authors: González Vilas Luis , Brando Vittorio E. , Concha Javier A. , Goyens Clèmence , Dogliotti Ana I. , Doxaran David , Dille Antoine , Van der Zande Dimitry
Published: March 2024

A Match-up Database (MDB) file structure and tools were developed to ease the validation analysis of satellite water products and to improve the exchange and processing of match-up data from different sites, missions and atmospheric correction processors.In situremote sensing reflectance (Rrs) measurements were available from the HYPSTAR®(HYperspectral Pointable System for Terrestrial and Aquatic Radiometry), a new automated hyperspectral radiometer. An MDB file is a NetCDF file containing all the potential match-ups between satellite andin situdata on a specific site and within a given time window. These files are generated and manipulated with three modules developed in Python to implement the validation protocols: extract satellite data, associate each extract with co-locatedin situradiometry data, and then perform the validation analysis. This work provides details on the implementation of the open-source MDB file structure and tools. The approach is demonstrated by a multi-site matchup comparison based on satellite data from the Sentinel-2 MSI and Sentinel-3 OLCI sensors, and HYPSTAR®data acquired over six water sites with diverse optical regimes from February 2021 to March 2023.The analysis of Sentinel-3 OLCI matchups across the six sites shows consistency with previous comparisons based on AERONET-OC data over extended reflectance range. We evaluated Sentinel-2 MSI reflectance data corrected with two atmospheric correction processors (ACOLITE and C2RCC) over four sites with clear to highly turbid waters. Results showed that the performance of the processors depends on the optical regime of the sites. Overall, we proved the suitability of the open-source MDB-based approach to implement validation protocols and generate automated matchup analyses for different missions, processors and sites.
High-resistant starch and low-glutelin content 1 rice benefits gut function in obese patients
Authors: Zhou Tiantian , Tang Zhaocheng , Liu Ru , Gui Linxing , Luo Wenzhen , Yang Yuwen , Zhang Baolong
Published: March 2024

The intestinal microbiota plays a crucial role in human health, yet the impact of high-resistant starch and low-glutelin rice in the gut of obese individuals remains unexplored. In this study, different types of rice, namely japonica rice (control), low-glutelin content 1 rice (Lgc1), high-resistant starch and low-glutelin content 1 rice (HR + Lgc1), and commercially available low-glycemic index rice (LowGI), were utilized as samples to examine their in vitro digestion and fermentation, as well as the impact of HR + Lgc1 on the intestinal microbiota in obese individuals. The findings revealed that HR + Lgc1 rice exhibited lower in vitro digestion rates for starch and protein compared to the other three types. Following 24 h of in vitro fermentation, the total short-chain fatty acid content in HR + Lgc1 was 108.67 mmol/L, which was 60.33, 51.26, and 17.29% that in control, Lgc1, and LowGI, respectively. Moreover, HR + Lgc1 rice displayed an inhibitory effect on the production of harmful branched-chain fatty acid metabolites. Analysis through 16S rDNA sequencing indicated that, after fermentation, HR + Lgc1 significantly enhanced the abundance of beneficial bacteria such as Bifidobacterium, Parabacteroides, and Faecalibacterium in the gut, whereas it reduced the abundance of harmful bacteria such as Escherichia-shigella. Our findings may contribute to the development of new foods rich in dietary fiber to improve the digestive function of patients with multiple comorbidities.
Clinical validation of circulating immune complexes for use as a diagnostic marker of canine leishmaniosis
Authors: Sarquis Juliana , Parody Nuria , Montoya Ana , Cacheiro-Llaguno Cristina , Barrera Juan Pedro , Checa Rocío , Daza María Angeles , Carnés Jerónimo , Miró Guadalupe
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Canine leishmaniosis (CanL) is a systemic disease that affects dogs. When multiplication of the parasite cannot be controlled, dogs consistently show high levels of antigen and IgG antibodies, which lead to the formation of circulating immune complexes (CIC). Timely intervention to reduce the parasite load and CIC levels is crucial for preventing irreversible organ damage. However, a diagnostic test to quantify CIC levels is currently lacking.

Methods

In this real-world study, we aimed to examine the performance of a new ELISA to measure CIC levels in dogs naturally infected with Leishmania infantum. Thirty-four dogs were treated according to their clinical condition and followed for 360 days. Before (day 0) and after treatment (days 30, 90, 180, 270, and 360), all dogs underwent a physical examination, and blood samples were obtained for CBC, biochemical profile, serum protein electrophoresis and IFAT. Serum PEG-precipitated CIC were determined by ELISA.

Results

Our results indicate higher CIC levels in dogs in advanced disease stages showing higher antibody titres (p < 0.0001, r = 0.735), anemia (p < 0.0001), dysproteinemia (p < 0.0001), and proteinuria (p = 0.004). Importantly, dogs responding well to treatment exhibited declining CIC levels (p < 0.0001), while in poor responders and those experiencing relapses, CIC were consistently elevated. CIC emerged as a robust discriminator of relapse, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.808. The optimal cut-off to accurately identify relapse was an optical density of 1.539.

Discussion

Our findings suggest that declining CIC levels should be expected in dogs showing a favorable treatment response. Conversely, in dogs displaying a poor response and recurrent clinical relapses, CIC levels will be high, emphasizing the need for vigilant monitoring. These findings suggest that CIC could serve as a valuable biomarker for disease progression, treatment efficacy, and relapse detection in CanL. Our study contributes to enhancing diagnostic approaches for CanL and underscores the potential of CIC as a complementary tool in veterinary practice. As we move forward, larger studies will be essential to confirm these findings and establish definitive cut-offs for clinical application.
Design and Analysis of the Two-Impulse Transfer Orbit for a Space-Based Gravitational Wave Observatory
Authors: Li Zhuo , Ling Huixiang , Zhao Xiao
Published: March 2024

There are plans to set up a space-based gravitational wave observatory that will use an ultra-large-scale laser interferometer in space to detect medium- and low-frequency gravitational waves. Both heliocentric and geocentric formations adopt the method of launching three satellites with one rocket, which has high requirements in terms of the carrying capacity of the rocket. Therefore, a proper transfer design is a prerequisite for achieving space-based gravitational wave detection. In this paper, the transfer orbit for three satellites of the Taiji mission is designed based on the two-impulse transfer model. Moreover, the influence on orbit design of the position of the formation relative to Earth, the initial phase angle of the formation, and the initial time of transfer is analyzed. The Earth-leading and -trailing transfers show opposite patterns in the above three aspects. A smaller velocity increment is required if a proper initial time is selected. After taking into account the stability of the formation, C3, the required velocity increment, transfer time, and the distance to Earth, 20° is determined to be the optimal initial trailing/leading angle.
A Radio Frequency Fingerprinting-Based Aircraft Identification Method Using ADS-B Transmissions
Authors: Gurer Gursu , Dalveren Yaser , Kara Ali , Derawi Mohammad
Published: March 2024

The automatic dependent surveillance broadcast (ADS-B) system is one of the key components of the next generation air transportation system (NextGen). ADS-B messages are transmitted in unencrypted plain text. This, however, causes significant security vulnerabilities, leaving the system open to various types of wireless attacks. In particular, the attacks can be intensified by simple hardware, like a software-defined radio (SDR). In order to provide high security against such attacks, radio frequency fingerprinting (RFF) approaches offer reasonable solutions. In this study, an RFF method is proposed for aircraft identification based on ADS-B transmissions. Initially, 3480 ADS-B samples were collected by an SDR from eight aircrafts. The power spectral density (PSD) features were then extracted from the filtered and normalized samples. Furthermore, the support vector machine (SVM) with three kernels (linear, polynomial, and radial basis function) was used to identify the aircraft. Moreover, the classification accuracy was demonstrated via varying channel signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) levels (10–30 dB). With a minimum accuracy of 92% achieved at lower SNR levels (10 dB), the proposed method based on SVM with a polynomial kernel offers an acceptable performance. The promising performance achieved with even a small dataset also suggests that the proposed method is implementable in real-world applications.
Adaptive Turbulence Model for Leading Edge Vortex Flows Preconditioned by a Hybrid Neural Network
Authors: Zieher Moritz , Breitsamter Christian
Published: March 2024

Eddy-viscosity-based turbulence models provide the most commonly used modeling approach for computational fluid dynamics simulations in the aerospace industry. These models are very accurate at a relatively low cost for many cases but lack accuracy in the case of highly rotational leading edge vortex flows for mid to low aspect-ratio wings. An enhanced adaptive turbulence model based on the one-equation Spalart–Allmaras turbulence model is fundamental to this work. This model employs several additional coefficients and source terms, specifically targeting vortex-dominated flow regions, where these coefficients can be calibrated by an optimization procedure based on experimental or high-fidelity numerical data. To extend the usability of the model from single or cluster-wise calibrated cases, this work presents a preconditioning approach of the turbulence model via a neural network. The neural network provides a case-unspecific calibration approach, enabling the use of the model for many known or unknown cases. This extension enables aircraft design teams to perform low-cost Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes simulations with increased accuracy instead of complex and costly high-fidelity simulations.
A Performance Comparison of CNN Models for Bean Phenology Classification Using Transfer Learning Techniques
Authors: Ibarra-Pérez Teodoro , Jaramillo-Martínez Ramón , Correa-Aguado Hans C. , Ndjatchi Christophe , Martínez-Blanco Ma. del Rosario , Guerrero-Osuna Héctor A. , Mirelez-Delgado Flabio D. , Casas-Flores José I. , Reveles-Martínez Rafael , Hernández-González Umanel A.
Published: March 2024

The early and precise identification of the different phenological stages of the bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) allows for the determination of critical and timely moments for the implementation of certain agricultural activities that contribute in a significant manner to the output and quality of the harvest, as well as the necessary actions to prevent and control possible damage caused by plagues and diseases. Overall, the standard procedure for phenological identification is conducted by the farmer. This can lead to the possibility of overlooking important findings during the phenological development of the plant, which could result in the appearance of plagues and diseases. In recent years, deep learning (DL) methods have been used to analyze crop behavior and minimize risk in agricultural decision making. One of the most used DL methods in image processing is the convolutional neural network (CNN) due to its high capacity for learning relevant features and recognizing objects in images. In this article, a transfer learning approach and a data augmentation method were applied. A station equipped with RGB cameras was used to gather data from images during the complete phenological cycle of the bean. The information gathered was used to create a set of data to evaluate the performance of each of the four proposed network models: AlexNet, VGG19, SqueezeNet, and GoogleNet. The metrics used were accuracy, precision, sensitivity, specificity, and F1-Score. The results of the best architecture obtained in the validation were those of GoogleNet, which obtained 96.71% accuracy, 96.81% precision, 95.77% sensitivity, 98.73% specificity, and 96.25% F1-Score.
Strategies for Preventing and Treating Oral Mucosal Infections Associated with Removable Dentures: A Scoping Review
Authors: Ribeiro Adriana Barbosa , Pizziolo Pillar Gonçalves , Clemente Lorena Mosconi , Aguiar Helena Cristina , Poker Beatriz de Camargo , Silva Arthur Augusto Martins e , Makrakis Laís Ranieri , Fifolato Marco Aurelio , Souza Giulia Cristina , Oliveira Viviane de Cássia , Watanabe Evandro , Lovato da Silva Cláudia Helena
Published: March 2024

Oral infections occur due to contact between biofilm rich in Candida albicans formed on the inner surface of complete dentures and the mucosa. This study investigated historical advances in the prevention and treatment of oral mucosal infection and identified gaps in the literature. Bibliographic research was conducted, looking at PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus, where 935 articles were found. After removing duplicates and excluding articles by reading the title and abstract, 131 articles were selected for full reading and 104 articles were included. Another 38 articles were added from the gray literature. This review followed the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. The historical period described ranges from 1969 to 2023, in which, during the 21st century, in vitro and in vivo studies became more common and, from 2010 to 2023, the number of randomized controlled trials increased. Among the various approaches tested are the incorporation of antimicrobial products into prosthetic materials, the improvement of oral and denture hygiene protocols, the development of synthetic and natural products for the chemical control of microorganisms, and intervention with local or systemic antimicrobial agents. Studies report good results with brushing combined with sodium hypochlorite, and new disinfectant solutions and products incorporated into prosthetic materials are promising.
DL-Methionyl–DL-Methionine/DL-Methionine Supplementation Alleviated the Adverse Effects of Dietary Low Fishmeal Levels on Growth and Intestinal Health of Micropterus salmoides
Authors: Yu Heng , Masagounder Karthik , Liang Hualiang , Ge Xianping , Huang Dongyu , Xue Chunyu , Ren Mingchun , He Juyun
Published: March 2024

DL-methionyl–DL-methionine (AQUAVI® Met-Met) (Met-Met) (0.10%, 0.20%, 0.30%, and 0.40%) or DL-methionine (DL-Met) (0.10%, 0.20%, 0.30%, and 0.40%) were added to a low-fishmeal diet in an attempt to reduce fishmeal in the diet of Micropterus salmoides (M. salmoides). The fish were randomly allocated into ten experimental groups (n = 100), each with 4 replicates of 25 fish (16.39 ± 0.01 g) each. Compared to 25% FM, 0.40% of DL-Met and 0.10% of Met-Met promoted growth, and 0.10% of Met-Met decreased FCR. Compared to 25% FM, the supplementation of Met-Met or DL-Met improved the intestinal antioxidant capacity by upregulating the NF-E2-related factor 2-mediated antioxidant factors and enzyme activities and nuclear factor kappa-B-mediated anti-inflammatory factors while downregulating the pro-inflammatory factors, thereby exerting anti-inflammatory effects. Moreover, 0.10% of the Met-Met diet affected the Firmicutes-to-Bacteroidota ratio, increased the levels of Proteobacteria, changed the composition of intestinal flora (Roseburia, Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group, and unclassified_Oscillospiraceae), and enhanced intestinal dominant bacteria (Caldicoprobacter, Pseudogracilibacillus, and Parasutterella), leading to improved gut health. In summary, the supplementation of DL-Met or Met-Met alleviated the adverse effect of fishmeal reduction (from 40 to 25%) on the growth performance and intestinal health of M. salmoides.
Melatonin: A Myriad of Functions to Discover
Authors: Santos-Ledo Adrián , García-Macia Marina
Published: March 2024

Melatonin is an indoleamine that has captured our attention since 1958 [...]
Light Pollution and Oxidative Stress: Effects on Retina and Human Health
Authors: Salceda Rocío
Published: March 2024

Visible light refers to the frequencies within the electromagnetic spectrum that humans can see, encompassing radiation with wavelengths falling between 380 nm to 760 nm. The energy of a single photon increases with its frequency. In the retina, photoreceptor cells contain light-sensitive pigments that absorb light and convert it into electrical stimuli through a process known as phototransduction. However, since the absorption spectrum of photoreceptors closely aligns with blue light (ranging from 400 to 500 nm), exposure to high light intensities or continuous illumination can result in oxidative stress within these cells, leading to a loss of their functionality. Apart from photoreceptor cells, the retina also houses photosensitive ganglion cells, known as intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs). These cells relay information to the suprachiasmatic nucleus in the brain, playing a crucial role in modulating melatonin secretion, which in turn helps in synchronizing the body’s circadian rhythms and responses to seasonal changes. Both, ipRGCs and skin possess a peak sensitivity to blue wavelengths, rendering them particularly susceptible to the effects of excessive blue light exposure. This study delves into the consequences of excessive illumination and/or prolonged exposure to blue light on retinal function and explores its implications for human health.
A High-Fat-Diet-Induced Microbiota Imbalance Correlates with Oxidative Stress and the Inflammatory Response in the Gut of Freshwater Drum (Aplodinotus grunniens)
Authors: Xue Miaomiao , Xu Pao , Wen Haibo , Chen Jianxiang , Wang Qingyong , He Jiyan , He Changchang , Kong Changxin , Li Xiaowei , Li Hongxia , Song Changyou
Published: March 2024

Lipids are critical nutrients for aquatic animals, and excessive or insufficient lipid intake can lead to physiological disorders, which further affect fish growth and health. In aquatic animals, the gut microbiota has an important regulatory role in lipid metabolism. However, the effects of a high-fat diet on physical health and microbiota diversity in the gut of freshwater drum (Aplodinotus grunniens) are unclear. Therefore, in the present study, a control group (Con, 6%) and a high-fat diet group (HFD, 12%) were established for a 16-week feeding experiment in freshwater drum to explore the physiological changes in the gut and the potential regulatory mechanisms of bacteria. The results indicated that a high-fat diet inhibited antioxidant and immune capacity while increasing inflammation, apoptosis and autophagy in gut cells. Transcriptome analysis revealed significant enrichment in immune-related, apoptosis-related and disease-related pathways. Through 16S rRNA analysis, a total of 31 genus-level differentially abundant bacterial taxa were identified. In addition, a high-fat diet reduced gut microbial diversity and disrupted the ecological balance of the gut microbiota (Ace, Chao, Shannon and Simpson indices). Integrated analysis of the gut microbiota combined with physiological indicators and the transcriptome revealed that gut microbial disorders were associated with intestinal antioxidants, immune and inflammatory responses, cell apoptosis and autophagy. Specifically, genus-level bacterial taxa in Proteobacteria (Plesiomonas, Arenimonas, Erythrobacter and Aquabacteriumb) could serve as potential targets controlling the response to high-fat-diet stimulation.