bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diagnosing Progression in Glioblastoma—Tackling a Neuro-Oncology Problem Using Artificial-Intelligence-Derived Volumetric Change over Time on Magnetic Resonance Imaging to Examine Progression-Free Survival in Glioblastoma
Authors: Belue Mason J. , Harmon Stephanie A. , Chappidi Shreya , Zhuge Ying , Tasci Erdal , Jagasia Sarisha , Joyce Thomas , Camphausen Kevin , Turkbey Baris , Krauze Andra V.
Published: June 2024

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive and the most common primary brain tumor, defined by nearly uniform rapid progression despite the current standard of care involving maximal surgical resection followed by radiation therapy (RT) and temozolomide (TMZ) or concurrent chemoirradiation (CRT), with an overall survival (OS) of less than 30% at 2 years. The diagnosis of tumor progression in the clinic is based on clinical assessment and the interpretation of MRI of the brain using Response Assessment in Neuro-Oncology (RANO) criteria, which suffers from several limitations including a paucity of precise measures of progression. Given that imaging is the primary modality that generates the most quantitative data capable of capturing change over time in the standard of care for GBM, this renders it pivotal in optimizing and advancing response criteria, particularly given the lack of biomarkers in this space. In this study, we employed artificial intelligence (AI)-derived MRI volumetric parameters using the segmentation mask output of the nnU-Net to arrive at four classes (background, edema, non-contrast enhancing tumor (NET), and contrast-enhancing tumor (CET)) to determine if dynamic changes in AI volumes detected throughout therapy can be linked to PFS and clinical features. We identified associations between MR imaging AI-generated volumes and PFS independently of tumor location, MGMT methylation status, and the extent of resection while validating that CET and edema are the most linked to PFS with patient subpopulations separated by district rates of change throughout the disease. The current study provides valuable insights for risk stratification, future RT treatment planning, and treatment monitoring in neuro-oncology.
Validation of a New Test for Measuring the Contrast Sensitivity Function (Optopad-CSF) at Near Vision
Authors: de Fez Dolores , García Celia , Luque-Cobija Maria Josefa , Mena-Guevara Kevin J. , Daudén Paula , Piñero David P.
Published: June 2024

Our purpose is to develop and validate a new iPad-based contrast sensitivity (CS) test for measuring the contrast sensitivity function at near vision (Optopad-CSF). A total of 200 eyes of 100 healthy subjects (ages 17–63) were evaluated in a comparative study between the Optopad-CSF test (near vision) and the CSV-1000E test (distance vision). The agreement between tests was assessed with the index of contrast sensitivity (ICS) and the area under the curve (AUC). CS for all the spatial frequencies in both eyes showed a negative significant correlation with age, and corrected distance, and near visual acuities (r ≤ −0.512, p ≤ 0.013). A significantly lower CS was found with the Optopad-CSF test in the over-40-year-old subgroup for all the spatial frequencies evaluated compared to the below-40 subgroup (p ≤ 0.008). The mean AUC of the Optopad-CSF test (5.84) was twice that of the CSV-1000E test (2.76). The mean ICS of the Optopad-CSF (−0.019) and CSV-1000E (−0.075) tests showed similar values, both close to 0 (p = 0.3). There was a weak but significant correlation between the Optopad-CSF and CSV-1000E ICS tests (r = 0.246, p < 0.02). A range of normality for the values obtained with the Optopad-CSF test was calculated. The mean CS values in 16 bilateral cataract patients were out of the normal range for all the spatial frequencies evaluated (p < 0.001). Optopad-CSF is a valid portable system for measuring CS at near vision for five spatial frequencies, allowing the detection of age-related changes in CSF with age and CSF loss in cataracts, with no ceiling effect.
An Advanced Lung Carcinoma Prediction and Risk Screening Model Using Transfer Learning
Authors: Bhatia Isha , Aarti  , Ansarullah Syed Immamul , Amin Farhan , Alabrah Amerah
Published: June 2024

Lung cancer, also known as lung carcinoma, has a high death rate, but an early diagnosis can substantially reduce this risk. In the current era, prediction models face challenges such as low accuracy, excessive noise, and low contrast. To resolve these problems, an advanced lung carcinoma prediction and risk screening model using transfer learning is proposed. Our proposed model initially preprocesses lung computed tomography images for noise removal, contrast stretching, convex hull lung region extraction, and edge enhancement. The next phase segments the preprocessed images using the modified Bates distribution coati optimization (B-RGS) algorithm to extract key features. The PResNet classifier then categorizes the cancer as normal or abnormal. For abnormal cases, further risk screening determines whether the risk is low or high. Experimental results depict that our proposed model performs at levels similar to other state-of-the-art models, achieving enhanced accuracy, precision, and recall rates of 98.21%, 98.71%, and 97.46%, respectively. These results validate the efficiency and effectiveness of our suggested methodology in early lung carcinoma prediction and risk assessment.
Factors Associated with Prolonged SARS-CoV-2 Viral Positivity in an Italian Cohort of Hospitalized Patients
Authors: De Grazia Simona , Pollicino Francesco , Giannettino Chiara , Errera Chiara Maria , Veronese Nicola , Giammanco Giovanni M. , Cacioppo Federica , Sanfilippo Giuseppa Luisa , Barbagallo Mario ,   COMEPA Study Authors
Published: June 2024

Clinical or microbiological factors potentially associated with prolonged COVID-19 PCR positivity are still poorly underexplored, but they could be of importance for public-health and clinical reasons. The objective of our analysis is to explore demographic, clinical, and microbiological factors potentially associated with a prolonged positivity to SARS-CoV-2 among 222 hospitalized patients. Prolonged detection positivity for SARS-CoV-2 RNA in swap samples, defined as positivity more than 21 days, was the outcome of interest. The 56 cases with a prolonged positivity to SARS-CoV-2 were matched for age and sex with 156 controls. The cases reported a significantly higher presence of diabetes mellitus, autoimmune diseases, chronic kidney diseases, and acute coronary syndrome. Moreover, the viral load was significantly higher in a period of prolonged positivity compared to a normal period. In the multivariable analysis, the presence of autoimmune diseases and chronic kidney disease were significantly associated with an increased risk of prolonged positivity as well as medium viral load or high viral load, i.e., low Ct value ≤ 30 indicating high viral load. The results of this study confirmed that in a large population of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 manifestations, the prolonged positivity of SARS-CoV-2 detection with nasopharyngeal swab was mainly related to autoimmune diseases, chronic kidney disease, and to baseline viral load.
Dynamics of Interacting Colloidal Particles Using the IIR Recursive Digital Filter Method
Authors: Lahboub Driss , Heyd Rodolphe , Lotfi Mohamed , Bakak Abderrahim , Koumina Abdelaziz
Published: June 2024

This paper focuses on the numerical study of spherical particle sedimentation, taking into account hydrodynamic interactions. Infinite impulse response (IIR) digital filters, specially tailored to solve the sedimentation dynamics, were used in the present study to numerically solve the coupled ordinary differential equations with the time-dependent coefficients of the problem. Hydrodynamic interactions are modeled using the Rotne–Prager–Yamakawa (RPY) approximation, to which a correction is made to better account for short-range interactions. In order to validate both the proposed numerical resolution method and the RPY correction, this paper begins with the study of two interacting spherical particle sedimentation methods. Comparisons with previously published analytical or numerical results confirm the relevance of the present approach.
Pedagogical Translanguaging in Content Areas: Exploring Preservice Teachers’ Lesson Plans for Emergent Bilinguals
Authors: Elshafie Marwa , Zhang Jie
Published: June 2024

The increasing linguistic and cultural diversity in K-12 schools necessitates preparing preservice teachers [PSTs] to address the unique needs of Emergent Bilinguals [EBs]. This study examined elementary preservice teachers’ (PSTs) lesson plans in English Language Arts, social studies, math, and science, focusing on integrating pedagogical translanguaging strategies. The research questions were the following: (1) What translanguaging practices are evident in PSTs’ lesson plans? (2) How do PSTs integrate these practices into their instructional planning for EBs? Fifty-six PSTs enrolled in a second language methodology course at a large urban research university participated in this study. This course, taken in their senior year or during student teaching, aimed to equip PSTs with skills for delivering linguistically and culturally appropriate instructions and assessments for EBs. For the final assignment, 56 lesson plans were analyzed using deductive and inductive coding methods with the Dedoose 4.2 software. The findings reveal that while PSTs effectively identified key vocabulary and used multimodal resources to support EBs, they need more training in leveraging EBs’ home languages, strategic grouping, multilingual collaboration, and translanguaging assessments in their instructional planning.
Psychometric Properties of the Chinese Version of the Core Symptom Index: A Study among Chinese Parents of Children with Autistic Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Chang Yu , He Bijing , DeMaranville Justin , Wongpakaran Nahathai , Wedding Danny , Wongpakaran Tinakon
Published: June 2024

(1) Background: Parents of children with autism spectrum disorders often experience psychological distress, which can affect the quality of childcare they provide. It is crucial to screen for psychiatric symptoms among these parents. The core symptom index (CSI) is a widely recognized tool used to assess general symptoms, including depression, anxiety, and somatic issues. It has proven validity and reliability across diverse Thai populations. Given the cultural similarities between Thai and Chinese populations, the CSI has been successfully implemented within the Chinese population. Nevertheless, it is crucial to research its validity and reliability in the general Chinese population. This study aimed to investigate the psychometric properties of the Chinese version of the CSI among parents of children with autism spectrum disorders using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). (2) Methods: A total of 794 Chinese parents raising children with autism participated in this study. All completed the CSI, along with the social inhibition subscale of the Interpersonal Problems Inventory and the Couple Satisfaction Index. Factorial validity was assessed using CFA to determine how well the bifactor three-factor model fits the data. Various structural models were compared using model fit indices. Convergent and discriminant validity were examined by exploring correlations with the social inhibition subscale and the Couple Satisfaction Index. Invariance testing of the CSI was conducted across multiple groups based on gender, age, and education using CFA. The reliability of the CSI was evaluated using McDonald’s omega coefficients. (3) Results: The bifactor model emerged as the best-fitting model for the data, suggesting that the total score of the CSI adequately represents overall psychiatric symptoms. The CSI exhibited significant correlations with the social inhibition subscale (r = 0.41, p < 0.01) and smaller correlation coefficients with the Couple Satisfaction Index (r = −0.16, p < 0.05), indicating both convergent and discriminant validity. The invariant test results support scalar invariance levels based on gender and age but only partial invariance for education. The Chinese version of the CSI demonstrated high consistency, with McDonald’s omega coefficients ranging between 0.86 and 0.95. (4) Conclusions: The bifactor model of the Chinese version of the CSI is validated, making it a suitable tool for measuring depression, anxiety, and somatization symptoms among parent(s) of children with autism spectrum disorders. Further research on other Chinese populations is encouraged.
Improving Text Classification with Large Language Model-Based Data Augmentation
Authors: Zhao Huanhuan , Chen Haihua , Ruggles Thomas A. , Feng Yunhe , Singh Debjani , Yoon Hong-Jun
Published: June 2024

Large Language Models (LLMs) such as ChatGPT possess advanced capabilities in understanding and generating text. These capabilities enable ChatGPT to create text based on specific instructions, which can serve as augmented data for text classification tasks. Previous studies have approached data augmentation (DA) by either rewriting the existing dataset with ChatGPT or generating entirely new data from scratch. However, it is unclear which method is better without comparing their effectiveness. This study investigates the application of both methods to two datasets: a general-topic dataset (Reuters news data) and a domain-specific dataset (Mitigation dataset). Our findings indicate that: 1. ChatGPT generated new data consistently enhanced model’s classification results for both datasets. 2. Generating new data generally outperforms rewriting existing data, though crafting the prompts carefully is crucial to extract the most valuable information from ChatGPT, particularly for domain-specific data. 3. The augmentation data size affects the effectiveness of DA; however, we observed a plateau after incorporating 10 samples. 4. Combining the rewritten sample with new generated sample can potentially further improve the model’s performance.
Detecting Fake Accounts on Social Media Portals—The X Portal Case Study
Authors: Dracewicz Weronika , Sepczuk Mariusz
Published: June 2024

Today, social media are an integral part of everyone’s life. In addition to their traditional uses of creating and maintaining relationships, they are also used to exchange views and all kinds of content. With the development of these media, they have become the target of various attacks. In particular, the existence of fake accounts on social networks can lead to many types of abuse, such as phishing or disinformation, which is a big challenge nowadays. In this work, we present a solution for detecting fake accounts on the X portal (formerly Twitter). The main goal behind the developed solution was to use images of X portal accounts and perform image classification using machine learning. As a result, it was possible to detect real and fake accounts and indicate the type of a particular account. The created solution was trained and tested on an adequately prepared dataset containing 15,000 generated accounts and real X portal accounts. The CNN model performing with accuracy above 92% and manual test results allow us to conclude that the proposed solution can be used to detect false accounts on the X portal.
A Review of Machine Learning Methods in Turbine Cooling Optimization
Authors: Xu Liang , Jin Shenglong , Ye Weiqi , Li Yunlong , Gao Jianmin
Published: June 2024

In the current design work, turbine performance requirements are getting higher and higher, and turbine blade design needs multiple rounds of iterative optimization. Three-dimensional turbine optimization involves multiple parameters, and 3D simulation takes a long time. Machine learning methods can make full use of historically accumulated data to train high-precision data models, which can greatly reduce turbine blade performance evaluation time and improve optimization efficiency. Based on the data model, the advanced intelligent combinatorial optimization technology can effectively reduce the number of iterations, find the better model faster, and improve the optimization calculation efficiency. Based on the different cooling parts of turbine blades and machine learning, this research explores the potential of implementing different machine learning algorithms in the field of turbine cooling design.
A Two-Stage Operation Strategy for Energy Storage under Extreme-Heat-with-Low-Wind-Speed Scenarios of a Power System
Authors: Liu Wenxia , Lin Zheng , Ma Rui , He Xianggang , Lou Suhua
Published: June 2024

Changes in weather conditions directly impact the output of wind power, photovoltaic systems, and other forms of uncontrollable power generation. During extreme weather events, the output from wind and photovoltaic sources is typically reduced. In light of this, this paper proposes a two-stage operational strategy for energy storage, under scenarios of extreme-heat-with-low-wind-speed, in power systems. Firstly, historical data on wind and solar power, along with weather characteristics, are collected to analyze the power output during multi-day periods of extreme heat and low wind speed. Then, Monte Carlo simulations are employed to generate multi-day load curves with inherent uncertainties, based on regional load characteristics of the power system. Finally, a two-stage operation strategy for energy storage charging and discharging is established. In the first stage, normal operations are conducted to identify periods of power shortage across various types of loads. In the second stage, based on the identified moments of power shortage from the first stage, charging and discharging constraints are applied to the energy storage systems. The feasibility and effectiveness of this two-stage operational strategy are then validated through simulations, using historical data to generate scenarios of multi-day extreme-heat-and-low-wind-speed conditions.
Study on the Operation Optimization of Medium-Depth U-Type Ground Source Heat Pump Systems
Authors: Zhou Chaohui , Hu Yue , Liu Yuce , Liu Rujie , Luo Yongqiang , Wang Xiao , Luo Huiheng
Published: June 2024

Deep geothermal energy is a sustainable and renewable spacing heating source. Although many studies have discussed the design optimization of deep borehole systems, few have accomplished optimization and in-depth analysis of system operation control. In this study, an analytical model of the U-type deep borehole heat exchanger is proposed, and the average relative error between the simulated outlet temperatures and experimental data is −3.2%. Then, this paper presents an integrated model for the operation optimization study of the U-type deep-borehole ground source heat pump system. The optimal control of flow rate is adopted to match the variation in heating load. Compared with the constant-flow rate (110 m3/h) operation mode, the variable flow rate method reduces the power consumption of the heat pump and circulating pump by 22.1%, from 288,423 kW·h to 224,592 kW·h, during 2112 h of operation. In addition, the system has a larger RHS and COP when the thermal conductivity of the backfill material increases. When the borehole depth increases by 200 m from 2300 m, the energy consumption of the circulating pump will drop from 85,844 kW·h to 56,548 kW·h. The COP of the heat pump unit will decrease approximately linearly as the heating load increases, and the total power consumption will increase accordingly. This work can provide guidance for the design and optimization of U-shaped GSHP systems.
Spatial Distribution of Forest Soil Base Elements (Ca, Mg and K): A Regression Kriging Prediction for Czechia
Authors: Oppong Sarkodie Vincent Yaw , Vašát Radim , Němeček Karel , Šrámek Vít , Fadrhonsová Věra , Neudertová Hellebrandová Kateřina , Borůvka Luboš , Pavlů Lenka
Published: June 2024

Base cations have declined within European forests due to leaching, accelerated by atmospheric acid deposition. This study aims at predicting the spatial distribution of pseudototal content of Ca, Mg, and K for coniferous, broadleaved and mixed forest stands. A harmonised database of about 7000 samples from the top mineral layer of 0–30 cm from the entire forest areas of the Czech Republic was used. A regression kriging model was used for spatial prediction of the content of the elements. The influence of the covariates used for the prediction was assessed using generalized additive models for location scale and shape (GAMLSS). The variance explained by the model was best for Ca with the R2 of 0.32, the R2 for Mg was 0.30, and the R2 for K was 0.26. Model fitting assessed by the ratio of performance to inter-quartile distance (RPIQ) showed K as the best fit with a value of 1.12, followed by Mg with the value 0.87, and Ca with 0.25. Ca exhibited the best prediction fit for the GAMLSS, compared with K and Mg, based on their AIC matrix values. The predicted spatial distribution in this study provides information for policy and will provide information for the sustainable management of forests.
Exopolysaccharides from Lactiplantibacillus plantarum C7 Exhibited Antibacterial, Antioxidant, Anti-Enzymatic, and Prebiotic Activities
Authors: Bouzaiene Taroub , Mohamedhen Vall Mariem , Ziadi Manel , Ben Rejeb Ines , Yangui Islem , Aydi Abdelkarim , Ouzari Imene , Moktar Hamdi
Published: June 2024

Previously, the exopolysaccharides produced by Lactiplantibacillus plantarum C7 isolated from the broiler intestine have been shown to possess probiotic potential. In this study, we highlighted the capacity of this strain to produce exopolysaccharide (EPS) endowed with several biological activities. The 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS) free radical scavenging activities of EPS were found to be 30.4% and 68.165%, respectively, at 100 mg/mL. The ferrous reducing potential of EPS was measured to be 25.26%. Furthermore, EPS exhibited antibacterial effects against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive pathogens, including Escherichia coli ATCC 10536 and Bacillus cereus ATCC 11778, with inhibition zones of 22.5 ± 0.70 mm and 20 ± 1.41, respectively. On the other hand, the exopolysaccharide also exhibited excellent inhibitory activity against butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), achieving 70.99% inhibition at a concentration of 10 mg/mL. FTIR spectra were used to characterize functional groups in EPS. Our findings proved that EPS from Lactiplantibacillus plantarum C7 could be explored for various applications, particularly in the health and functional food sectors.
Combining Advanced Feature-Selection Methods to Uncover Atypical Energy-Consumption Patterns
Authors: Henriques Lucas , Lima Felipe Prata , Castro Cecilia
Published: June 2024

Understanding household energy-consumption patterns is essential for developing effective energy-conservation strategies. This study aims to identify ‘out-profiled’ consumers—households that exhibit atypical energy-usage behaviors—by applying four distinct feature-selection methodologies. Specifically, we utilized the chi-square independence test to assess feature independence, recursive feature elimination with multinomial logistic regression (RFE-MLR) to identify optimal feature subsets, random forest (RF) to determine feature importance, and a combined fuzzy rough feature selection with fuzzy rough nearest neighbors (FRFS-FRNN) for handling uncertainty and imprecision in data. These methods were applied to a dataset based on a survey of 383 households in Brazil, capturing various factors such as household size, income levels, geographical location, and appliance usage. Our analysis revealed that key features such as the number of people in the household, heating and air conditioning usage, and income levels significantly influence energy consumption. The novelty of our work lies in the comprehensive application of these advanced feature-selection techniques to identify atypical consumption patterns in a specific regional context. The results showed that households without heating and air conditioning equipment in medium- or high-consumption profiles, and those with lower- or medium-income levels in medium- or high-consumption profiles, were considered out-profiled. These findings provide actionable insights for energy providers and policymakers, enabling the design of targeted energy-conservation strategies. This study demonstrates the importance of tailored approaches in promoting sustainable energy consumption and highlights notable deviations in energy-use patterns, offering a foundation for future research and policy development.
Early-Life Supplementation Enhances Gastrointestinal Immunity and Microbiota in Young Rats
Authors: Sáez-Fuertes Laura , Kapravelou Garyfallia , Grases-Pintó Blanca , Bernabeu Manuel , Knipping Karen , Garssen Johan , Bourdet-Sicard Raphaëlle , Castell Margarida , Rodríguez-Lagunas María José , Collado María Carmen , Pérez-Cano Francisco José
Published: June 2024

Immunonutrition, which focuses on specific nutrients in breast milk and post-weaning diets, plays a crucial role in supporting infants’ immune system development. This study explored the impact of maternal supplementation with Bifidobacterium breve M-16V and a combination of short-chain galacto-oligosaccharide (scGOS) and long-chain fructo-oligosaccharide (lcFOS) from pregnancy through lactation, extending into the early childhood of the offspring. The synbiotic supplementation’s effects were examined at both mucosal and systemic levels. While the supplementation did not influence their overall growth, water intake, or food consumption, a trophic effect was observed in the small intestine, enhancing its weight, length, width, and microscopic structures. A gene expression analysis indicated a reduction in FcRn and Blimp1 and an increase in Zo1 and Tlr9, suggesting enhanced maturation and barrier function. Intestinal immunoglobulin (Ig) A levels remained unaffected, while cecal IgA levels decreased. The synbiotic supplementation led to an increased abundance of total bacteria and Ig-coated bacteria in the cecum. The abundance of Bifidobacterium increased in both the intestine and cecum. Short-chain fatty acid production decreased in the intestine but increased in the cecum due to the synbiotic supplementation. Systemically, the Ig profiles remained unaffected. In conclusion, maternal synbiotic supplementation during gestation, lactation, and early life is established as a new strategy to improve the maturation and functionality of the gastrointestinal barrier. Additionally, it participates in the microbiota colonization of the gut, leading to a healthier composition.
Extraction of Bioactive Compounds from Wine Lees: A Systematic and Bibliometric Review
Authors: Melo Filipe de Oliveira , Ferreira Vanessa Cosme , Barbero Gerardo Fernandez , Carrera Ceferino , Ferreira Ederlan de Souza , Umsza-Guez Marcelo Andrés
Published: June 2024

The extraction of bioactive compounds from wine lees involves a variety of methods, the selection of which is crucial to ensure optimal yields. This systematic review, following PRISMA guidelines and utilizing the Web of Science database, aimed to examine the current state of this field, providing insights for future investigations. The search employed strategies with truncation techniques and Boolean operators, followed by a three-step screening using well-defined eligibility criteria. A bibliometric analysis was conducted to identify authors, affiliations, countries/regions, and research trends. Thirty references were selected for analysis, with Spain standing out as the main source of research on the topic. The majority of studies (66%) focused on the extraction of bioactive compounds from alcoholic fermentation lees, while 33% were directed towards malolactic fermentation lees. Binary mixtures (ethanol–water) were the predominant solvents, with ultrasound being the most used extraction method (31.3%), providing the highest average yields (288.6%) for the various evaluated compounds, especially flavonoids. The potential of wine lees as a source of bioactive compounds is highlighted, along with the need for further research exploring alternative extraction technologies and the combination of methods. Additionally, the importance of “in vitro” and “in vivo” tests to assess the bioactive potential of lees, as well as the use of computational tools to optimize extraction and identify the molecules responsible for bioactive activity, is emphasized.
Technological and Nutritional Aspects of Bread Production: An Overview of Current Status and Future Challenges
Authors: Mesta-Corral Mariana , Gómez-García Ricardo , Balagurusamy Nagamani , Torres-León Cristian , Hernández-Almanza Ayerim Y.
Published: June 2024

Bakery products, especially bread, exist in many homes worldwide. One of the main reasons for its high consumption is that the main raw material is wheat, a cereal that can adapt to a wide variety of soils and climates. However, the nutritional quality of this raw material decreases during its industrial processing, decreasing the value of fibers, proteins, and minerals. Therefore, bread has become a product of high interest to increase its nutritional value. Due to the high consumption of bread, this paper provides a general description of the physicochemical and rheological changes of the dough, as well as the sensory properties of bread by incorporating alternative flours such as beans, lentils, and soy (among others). The reviewed data show that alternative flours can improve fiber, macro, and micronutrient content. The high fiber content reduces the quality of the texture of the products. However, new processing steps or cooking protocols, namely flour proportions, temperature, cooking, and fermentation time, can allow adjusting production variables and optimization to potentially overcome the decrease in sensory quality and preserve consumer acceptance.
Gelatin-Based Scaffolds with Carrageenan and Chitosan for Soft Tissue Regeneration
Authors: Pasini Chiara , Re Federica , Trenta Federica , Russo Domenico , Sartore Luciana
Published: June 2024

Motivated by the enormous potential of hydrogels in regenerative medicine, new biocompatible gelatin-based hybrid hydrogels were developed through a green process using poly(ethylene glycol) diglycidyl ether as a cross-linking agent, adding carrageenan and chitosan polysaccharides to the network to better mimic the hybrid composition of native extracellular matrix. Overall, the hydrogels show suitable structural stability, high porosity and pore interconnectivity, good swellability, and finally, biocompatibility. Their mechanical behavior, investigated by tensile and compression tests, appears to be characterized by nonlinear elasticity with high compliance values, fast stress-relaxation, and good strain reversibility with no sign of mechanical failure for compressive loading–unloading cycles at relatively high deformation levels of 50%. Degradation tests confirm the hydrogel bioresorbability by gradual hydrolysis, during which the structural integrity of both materials is maintained, while their mechanical behavior becomes more and more compliant. Human Umbilical Cord-derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells (hUC-MSCs) were used to test the hydrogels as potential carriers for cell delivery in tissue engineering. hUC-MSCs cultured inside the hydrogels show a homogenous distribution and maintain their growth and viability for at least 21 days of culture, with an increasing proliferation trend. Hence, this study contributes to a further understanding of the potential use of hybrid hydrogels and hUC-MSCs for a wide range of biomedical applications, particularly in soft tissue engineering.
Chiral Nanostructured Glycerohydrogel Sol–Gel Plates of Chitosan L- and D-Aspartate: Supramolecular Ordering and Optical Properties
Authors: Shipovskaya Anna , Ushakova Olga , Volchkov Sergei , Shipenok Xenia , Shmakov Sergei , Gegel Natalia , Burov Andrey
Published: June 2024

A comprehensive study was performed on the supramolecular ordering and optical properties of thin nanostructured glycerohydrogel sol-gel plates based on chitosan L- and D-aspartate and their individual components in the X-ray, UV, visible, and IR ranges. Our comparative analysis of chiroptical characteristics, optical collimated transmittance, the average cosine of the scattering angle, microrelief and surface asymmetry, and the level of structuring shows a significant influence of the wavelength range of electromagnetic radiation and the enantiomeric form of aspartic acid on the functional characteristics of the sol-gel materials. At the macrolevel of the supramolecular organization, a complex topography of the surface layer and a dense amorphous–crystalline ordering of polymeric substances were revealed, while at the nanolevel, there were two forms of voluminous scattering domains: nanospheres with diameters of 60–120 nm (L-) and 45–55 nm (D-), anisometric particles of lengths within ~100–160 (L-) and ~85–125 nm (D-), and widths within ~10–20 (L-) and ~20–30 nm (D-). The effect of optical clearing on glass coated with a thin layer of chitosan L-(D-)aspartate in the near-UV region was discovered (observed for the first time for chitosan-based materials). The resulting nanocomposite shape-stable glycerohydrogels seem promising for sensorics and photonics.
Ionic Crosslinked Hydrogel Films for Immediate Decontamination of Chemical Warfare Agents
Authors: Toader Gabriela , Ginghina Raluca-Elena , Bratu Adriana Elena , Podaru Alice Ionela , Pulpea Daniela , Rotariu Traian , Gavrilă Ana Mihaela , Diacon Aurel
Published: June 2024

This study describes the development of hydrogel formulations with ionic crosslinking capacity and photocatalytic characteristics. The objective of this research is to provide an effective, accessible, “green”, and facile route for the decontamination of chemical warfare agents (CWAs, namely the blistering agent—mustard gas/sulfur mustard (HD)) from contaminated surfaces, by decomposition and entrapment of CWAs and their degradation products inside the hydrogel films generated “on-site”. The decontamination of the notorious warfare agent HD was successfully achieved through a dual hydrolytic–photocatalytic degradation process. Subsequently, the post-decontamination residues were encapsulated within a hydrogel membrane film produced via an ionic crosslinking mechanism. Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and sodium alginate (ALG) are the primary constituents of the decontaminating formulations. These polymeric components were chosen for this application due to their cost-effectiveness, versatility, and their ability to form hydrogen bonds, facilitating hydrogel formation. In the presence of divalent metallic ions, ALG undergoes ionic crosslinking, resulting in rapid gelation. This facilitated prompt PVA-ALG film curing and allowed for immediate decontamination of targeted surfaces. Additionally, bentonite nanoclay, titanium nanoparticles, and a tetrasulfonated nickel phthalocyanine (NiPc) derivative were incorporated into the formulations to enhance absorption capacity, improve mechanical properties, and confer photocatalytic activity to the hydrogels obtained via Zn2+—mediated ionic crosslinking. The resulting hydrogels underwent characterization using a variety of analytical techniques, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), viscometry, and mechanical analysis (shear, tensile, and compression tests), as well as swelling investigations, to establish the optimal formulations for CWA decontamination applications. The introduction of the fillers led to an increase in the maximum strain up to 0.14 MPa (maximum tensile resistance) and 0.39 MPa (maximum compressive stress). The UV-Vis characterization of the hydrogels allowed the determination of the band-gap value and absorption domain. A gas chromatography–mass spectrometry assay was employed to evaluate the decontamination efficacy for a chemical warfare agent (sulfur mustard—HD) and confirmed that the ionic crosslinked hydrogel films achieved decontamination efficiencies of up to 92.3%. Furthermore, the presence of the photocatalytic species can facilitate the degradation of up to 90% of the HD removed from the surface and entrapped inside the hydrogel matrix, which renders the post-decontamination residue significantly less dangerous.
Comparative Analysis of Chloroplast Genomes in Cephaleuros and Its Related Genus (Trentepohlia): Insights into Adaptive Evolution
Authors: Fang Jiao , Zheng Lingling , Liu Guoxiang , Zhu Huan
Published: June 2024

Cephaleuros species are well-known as plant pathogens that cause red rust or algae spot diseases in many economically cultivated plants that grow in shady and humid environments. Despite their prevalence, the adaptive evolution of these pathogens remains poorly understood. We sequenced and characterized three Cephaleuros (Cephaleuros lagerheimii, Cephaleuros diffusus, and Cephaleuros virescens) chloroplast genomes, and compared them with seven previously reported chloroplast genomes. The chloroplast sequences of C. lagerheimii, C. diffusus, and C. virescens were 480,613 bp, 383,846 bp, and 472,444 bp in length, respectively. These chloroplast genomes encoded 94 genes, including 27 tRNA genes, 3 rRNA genes, and 64 protein-coding genes. Comparative analysis uncovered that the variation in genome size was principally due to the length of intergenic spacer sequences, followed by introns. Furthermore, several highly variable regions (trnY-GTA, trnL-TAG, petA, psbT, trnD-GTC, trnL-TAA, ccsA, petG, psaA, psaB, rps11, rps2, and rps14) were identified. Codon bias analysis revealed that the codon usage pattern of Cephaleuros is predominantly shaped by natural selection. Additionally, six chloroplast protein-coding genes (atpF, chlN, psaA, psaB, psbA, and rbcL) were determined to be under positive selection, suggesting they may play a vital roles in the adaptation of Cephaleuros to low-light intensity habitats.
DDX5 Can Act as a Transcription Factor Participating in the Formation of Chicken PGCs by Targeting BMP4
Authors: Zuo Qisheng , Gong Wei , Yao Zeling , Jin Kai , Niu Yingjie , Zhang Yani , Li Bichun
Published: June 2024

As an RNA binding protein (RBP), DDX5 is widely involved in the regulation of various biological activities. While recent studies have confirmed that DDX5 can act as a transcriptional cofactor that is involved in the formation of gametes, few studies have investigated whether DDX5 can be used as a transcription factor to regulate the formation of primordial germ cells (PGCs). In this study, we found that DDX5 was significantly up-regulated during chicken PGC formation. Under different PGC induction models, the overexpression of DDX5 not only up-regulates PGC markers but also significantly improves the formation efficiency of primordial germ cell-like cells (PGCLC). Conversely, the inhibition of DDX5 expression can significantly inhibit both the expression of PGC markers and PGCLC formation efficiency. The effect of DDX5 on PGC formation in vivo was consistent with that seen in vitro. Interestingly, DDX5 not only participates in the formation of PGCs but also positively regulates their migration and proliferation. In the process of studying the mechanism by which DDX5 regulates PGC formation, we found that DDX5 acts as a transcription factor to bind to the promoter region of BMP4—a key gene for PGC formation—and activates the expression of BMP4. In summary, we confirm that DDX5 can act as a positive transcription factor to regulate the formation of PGCs in chickens. The obtained results not only enhance our understanding of the way in which DDX5 regulates the development of germ cells but also provide a new target for systematically optimizing the culture and induction system of PGCs in chickens in vitro.
Identification and Spatiotemporal Expression of a Putative New GABA Receptor Subunit in the Human Body Louse Pediculus humanus humanus
Authors: Hashim Omar , Toubaté Berthine , Charvet Claude L. , Ahmed Aimun A. E. , Neveu Cédric , Dimier-Poisson Isabelle , Debierre-Grockiego Françoise , Dupuy Catherine
Published: June 2024

The human louse (Pediculus humanus) is an obligatory blood feeding ectoparasite with two ecotypes: the human body louse (Pediculus humanus humanus), a competent vector of several bacterial pathogens, and the human head louse (Pediculus humanus capitis), responsible for pediculosis and affecting millions of people around the globe. GABA (γ-aminobutyric acid) receptors, members of the cys-loop ligand gated ion channel superfamily, are among the main pharmacological targets for insecticides. In insects, there are four subunits of GABA receptors: resistant-to-dieldrin (RDL), glycin-like receptor of drosophila (GRD), ligand-gated chloride channel homologue3 (LCCH3), and 8916 are well described and form distinct phylogenetic clades revealing orthologous relationships. Our previous studies in the human body louse confirmed that subunits Phh-RDL, Phh-GRD, and Phh-LCCH3 are well clustered in their corresponding clades. In the present work, we cloned and characterized a putative new GABA receptor subunit in the human body louse that we named HoCas, for Homologous to Cys-loop α like subunit. Extending our analysis to arthropods, HoCas was found to be conserved and clustered in a new (fifth) phylogenetic clade. Interestingly, the gene encoding this subunit is ancestral and has been lost in some insect orders. Compared to the other studied GABA receptor subunits, HoCas exhibited a relatively higher expression level in all development stages and in different tissues of human body louse. These findings improved our understanding of the complex nature of GABA receptors in Pediculus humanus and more generally in arthropods.
Swine Influenza Viruses Isolated from 2019 to 2022 in Shandong Province, China, Exemplify the Dominant Genotype
Authors: Zhao Yuzhong , Han Lebin , Sang Haotian , Liu Sidang , Yang Pingping , Hou Yanmeng , Xiao Yihong
Published: June 2024

Swine influenza viruses (SIVs) have been circulating in swine globally and are potential threats to human health. During the surveillance of SIVs in Shandong Province, China, from 2019 to 2022, 21 reassortant G4 genotype Eurasian avian-like (EA) H1N1 subtypes containing genes from the EA H1N1 (HA and NA), 2009 pandemic (pdm/09) H1N1 virus (PB2, PB1, PA, NP, and M), and classical swine (CS) H1N1 (NS) lineages were isolated. The analysis of the key functional amino acid sites in the isolated viruses showed that two mutation sites (190D and 225E) that preferentially bind to the human α2-6 sialic acid receptor were found in HA. In PB2, three mutation sites (271A, 590S, and 591R) that may increase mammalian fitness and a mutation site (431M) that increases pathogenicity in mice were found. A typical human signature marker that may promote infection in humans, 357K, was found in NP. The viruses could replicate efficiently in mouse lungs and turbinates, and one of the H1N1 isolates could replicate in mouse kidneys and brains without prior adaption, which indicates that the viruses potentially pose a threat to human health. Histopathological results showed that the isolated viruses caused typical bronchopneumonia and encephalitis in mice. The results indicate that G4 genotype H1N1 has potential transmissibility to humans, and surveillance should be enhanced, which could provide important information for assessing the pandemic potential of the viruses.
Sinuous Is a Claudin Required for Locust Molt in Locusta migratoria
Authors: Zhang Yichao , Li Hongjing , Lan Qiuyan , Liu Xiaoman , Wu Haihua , Zhang Jianzhen , Zhao Xiaoming , Wang Yanli
Published: June 2024

The epidermal cells of insects are polarized epithelial cells that play a pivotal role in the insect’s molting process. Sinuous, a pivotal structural protein involved in the formation of septate junctions among epithelial cells, is essential for its physiological function. In this study, to determine whether sinuous participates in the regulation of insect molting, we identified the sinuous gene, Lmsinu, in Locusta migratoria, which encodes a protein belonging to the claudin family and shares 62.6% identity with Drosophila’s sinuous protein. Lmsinu is expressed in multiple tissues, and its expression level in the integument significantly increases prior to molting. Knockdown of Lmsinu in L. migratoria results in larval mortality during molting. Furthermore, hematoxylin and eosin and chitin staining demonstrate that the downregulation of Lmsinu led to a prolonged degradation process of the old cuticle during the molting process. Electron microscopy analysis further revealed that knockdown of Lmsinu disrupts the formation of septate junctions among epidermal cells, which are a monolayer of polarized epithelial cells, which may hinder the functionality of epidermal cells during the process of molting. In summary, these findings suggest that Lmsinu plays a role in nymph molting by regulating the formation of septate junctions among epidermal cells.
Potential Involvement of MnCYP710A11 in Botrytis cinerea Resistance in Arabidopsis thaliana and Morus notabilis
Authors: An Hui , Wang Donghao , Yu Lin , Wu Hongshun , Qin Yue , Zhang Shihao , Ji Xianling , Xin Youchao , Li Xiaodong
Published: June 2024

Cytochrome P450 (CYP) is a crucial oxidoreductase enzyme that plays a significant role in plant defense mechanisms. In this study, a specific cytochrome P450 gene (MnCYP710A11) was discovered in mulberry (Morus notabilis). Bioinformatic analysis and expression pattern analysis were conducted to elucidate the involvement of MnCYP710A11 in combating Botrytis cinerea infection. After the infection of B. cinerea, there was a notable increase in the expression of MnCYP710A11. MnCYP710A11 is overexpressed in Arabidopsis and mulberry and strongly reacts to B. cinerea. The overexpression of the MnCYP710A11 gene in Arabidopsis and mulberry led to a substantial enhancement in resistance against B. cinerea, elevated catalase (CAT) activity, increased proline content, and reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. At the same time, H2O2 and O2− levels in MnCYP710A11 transgenic Arabidopsis were decreased, which reduced the damage of ROS accumulation to plants. Furthermore, our research indicates the potential involvement of MnCYP710A11 in B. cinerea resistance through the modulation of other resistance-related genes. These findings establish a crucial foundation for gaining deeper insights into the role of cytochrome P450 in mulberry plants.
Cognitive Restructuring during Depressive Symptoms: A Scoping Review
Authors: Santos Bruno , Pinho Lara , Nogueira Maria José , Pires Regina , Sequeira Carlos , Montesó-Curto Pilar
Published: June 2024

Cognitive restructuring (CR) aims to get people to challenge and modify their cognitive distortions, generating alternative, more adaptive thoughts. Behavioral, emotional, and physiological responses are modified by analyzing and changing dysfunctional thoughts. The person must have the cognitive capacity to participate in the analysis of their thoughts. CR for people with depression has positive effects, although there is little research on how it should be structured and applied. CR is a thought modification technique presented in the Nursing Interventions Classification (NIC), but is not organized in a sequential approach, and there is no procedure for applying it in practice. This scoping review aims to identify the structure, contents and assessment instruments used in CR for people with depressive symptoms and to analyze the health outcomes of applying the CR technique in this population. Out of 515 articles, seven studies were included in the review, up to 2021 and without any time limitation. The studies were not guided by a consistent and sound framework of the CR technique and each study used its own framework, although they used similar techniques. We grouped CR into six steps. No specific studies were found regarding intervention by nurses. CR is effective in reducing depressive symptoms, so it is an important therapeutic tool that should be used on people with depression. With this scoping review, mental health nurses will have a more comprehensive idea of the techniques that can be used in the application of CR to patients with depressive symptoms.