bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Real-World Adherence and Drug Survival of Biologics among Patients with Ankylosing Spondylitis
Authors: Rosenberg Vered , Amital Howard , Chodick Gabriel , Faccin Freddy , Watad Abdulla , McGonagle Dennis , Gendelman Omer
Published: July 2024

Objectives: The objective of this study was to evaluate the real-world drug survival, adherence, and discontinuation risk of biologics disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) among patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS). Methods: This was a retrospective study using a computerized database. Biologic-naïve and biologic-experienced AS patients who initiated treatment with bDMARDs (tumor necrosis factor alpha inhibitors {TNF-αis} or interleukin-17 inhibitor {IL-17i}) during 2015–2018 were included. Adherence was assessed using the proportion of days covered (PDC) method. Drug survival was analyzed using Kaplan–Meier estimates. Risk of discontinuation was estimated by the Cox proportional hazard model. Results: We identified 343 eligible patients utilizing 481 lines of therapy. The mean age was 44.6 years (SD ± 13.4), 57.7% were males, and 69.7% were biologic-naïve at baseline. The proportion of highly adherent patients (PDC ≥ 0.8) in the biologic-naïve group was 63.5% for golimumab, 69.2% for etanercept, and 71.6% for adalimumab (p > 0.9). Among the biologic-experienced group, secukinumab had the highest proportion of adherent patients (75.7%) and etanercept the lowest (50.0%) reaching statistical difference (p < 0.001). The Kaplan–Meier analysis did not show a significant difference in drug survival in either the biologic-naïve or the biologic-experienced groups (p = 0.85). Multivariable analysis demonstrated a similar risk for discontinuation for etanercept, golimumab, and secukinumab compared with adalimumab, regardless of biologic-experience status. Conclusions: Adherence, drug survival, and risk for discontinuation were similar for all TNF-αis and the IL-17i SEC, regardless of biologic-experience status. As drug survival is an indirect measure of drug efficacy, n, in real-world settings, we believe caregivers can integrate these results into treatment considerations.
Prognostic Significance of Disseminated Tumor Cells in Bone Marrow for Endometrial Carcinoma Patients
Authors: Volmer Léa Louise , Grube Marcel , Rohner Annika , McAlpine Jessica Nell , Talhouk Aline , Lum Amy , Matovina Sabine , Kommoss Stefan , Staebler Annette , Brucker Sara Yvonne , Walter Christina Barbara
Published: July 2024

Background: Until now, limited clinical significance had been reported for disseminated tumor cells (DTCs) in gynecologic malignancies. DTCs were previously reported not to be associated with established risk factors, L1CAM immunoreactivity, and outcome in endometrial carcinoma (EC). This study’s primary objective was to investigate potential correlations of DTCs in the bone marrow (BM) of EC patients with disease-related survival, and a secondary objective was to evaluate associations between molecular classification of EC and DTCs. Methods: Patients treated for primary EC at Tuebingen University women’s hospital between 2003 and 2016 were identified. A total of 402 patients with a complete set of BM cytology, molecular, and clinical data were evaluable. Results: DTC occurrence was distributed equally among all four molecular groups (p = 0.651). DTC positivity was associated with a less favorable disease-free survival (HR: 1.86, 95% CI: 1.03–3.36, p = 0.036) and progression-free survival (HR: 1.86, 95% CI: 1.01–3.44, p = 0.045). Presence of DTCs was associated with a higher frequency of distant disease recurrence (p = 0.017). Conclusions: In line with our previous findings, tumor cell dissemination is not associated with molecular features in our large cohort of primary EC patients. Since DTCs seem to be associated with survival and location of disease recurrence, further studies are needed to decisively define their role in EC survival.
A Cortical-Inspired Contour Completion Model Based on Contour Orientation and Thickness
Authors: Galyaev Ivan , Mashtakov Alexey
Published: July 2024

An extended four-dimensional version of the traditional Petitot–Citti–Sarti model on contour completion in the visual cortex is examined. The neural configuration space is considered as the group of similarity transformations, denoted as M=SIM(2). The left-invariant subbundle of the tangent bundle models possible directions for establishing neural communication. The sub-Riemannian distance is proportional to the energy expended in interneuron activation between two excited border neurons. According to the model, the damaged image contours are restored via sub-Riemannian geodesics in the space M of positions, orientations and thicknesses (scales). We study the geodesic problem in M using geometric control theory techniques. We prove the existence of a minimal geodesic between arbitrary specified boundary conditions. We apply the Pontryagin maximum principle and derive the geodesic equations. In the special cases, we find explicit solutions. In the general case, we provide a qualitative analysis. Finally, we support our model with a simulation of the association field.
Overlapping Shoeprint Detection by Edge Detection and Deep Learning
Authors: Li Chengran , Narayanan Ajit , Ghobakhlou Akbar
Published: July 2024

In the field of 2-D image processing and computer vision, accurately detecting and segmenting objects in scenarios where they overlap or are obscured remains a challenge. This difficulty is worse in the analysis of shoeprints used in forensic investigations because they are embedded in noisy environments such as the ground and can be indistinct. Traditional convolutional neural networks (CNNs), despite their success in various image analysis tasks, struggle with accurately delineating overlapping objects due to the complexity of segmenting intertwined textures and boundaries against a background of noise. This study introduces and employs the YOLO (You Only Look Once) model enhanced by edge detection and image segmentation techniques to improve the detection of overlapping shoeprints. By focusing on the critical boundary information between shoeprint textures and the ground, our method demonstrates improvements in sensitivity and precision, achieving confidence levels above 85% for minimally overlapped images and maintaining above 70% for extensively overlapped instances. Heatmaps of convolution layers were generated to show how the network converges towards successful detection using these enhancements. This research may provide a potential methodology for addressing the broader challenge of detecting multiple overlapping objects against noisy backgrounds.
Analytical Framework for Tension Characterization in Submerged Anchor Cables via Nonlinear In-Plane Free Vibrations
Authors: Yang Long , Wang Dahai , Zheng Huadong , Ma Zhengyuan , Zhang Yixin
Published: July 2024

Submerged tensioned anchor cables (STACs) are pivotal components utilized extensively for anchoring and supporting offshore floating structures. Unlike tensioned cables in air, STACs exhibit distinctive nonlinear damping characteristics. Although existing studies on the free vibration response and tension identification of STACs often employ conventional Galerkin and average methods, the effect of the quadratic damping coefficient (QDC) on the vibration frequency remains unquantified. This paper re-examines the effect of bending stiffness on the static equilibrium configuration of STACs, and establishes the in-plane transverse free motion equations considering bending stiffness, sag, and hydrodynamic force. By introducing the bending stiffness influence coefficient and the Irvine parameter, the exact analytical solutions of symmetric and antisymmetric frequencies and modal shapes of STACs are derived. An improved Galerkin method is proposed to discretize the nonlinear free motion equations ensuring the accuracy and applicability of the analytical results. Additionally, this paper presents an analytical solution for the nonlinear free vibration response of the STACs using the improved averaging method, along with improved frequency formulas and tension identification methods considering the QDC. Through a case study, it is demonstrated that the improved methods introduced in this paper offer higher accuracy and wider applicability compared to the conventional approaches. These findings provide theoretical guidance and reference for the precise dynamic analysis, monitoring, and evaluation of marine anchor cable structures.
Predictive Resilience Modeling Using Statistical Regression Methods
Authors: Silva Priscila , Hidalgo Mariana , Hotchkiss Mindy , Dharmasena Lasitha , Linkov Igor , Fiondella Lance
Published: July 2024

Resilience describes the capacity of systems to react to, withstand, adjust to, and recover from disruptive events. Despite numerous metrics proposed to quantify resilience, few studies predict these metrics or the restoration time to nominal performance levels, and these studies often focus on a single domain. This paper introduces three methods to model system performance and resilience metrics, which are applicable to various engineering and social science domains. These models utilize reliability engineering techniques, including bathtub-shaped functions, mixture distributions, and regression analysis incorporating event intensity covariates. Historical U.S. job loss data during recessions are used to evaluate these approaches’ predictive accuracy. This study computes goodness-of-fit measures, confidence intervals, and resilience metrics. The results show that bathtub-shaped functions and mixture distributions accurately predict curves possessing V, U, L, and J shapes but struggle with W and K shapes involving multiple disruptions or sudden performance drops. In contrast, covariate-based models effectively track all curve types, including complex W and K shapes, like the successive shocks in the 1980 U.S. recession and the sharp decline in the 2020 U.S. recession. These models achieve a high predictive accuracy for future performance and resilience metrics, evidenced by the low sum of square errors and high adjusted coefficients of determination.
Fractional Dynamics of Cassava Mosaic Disease Model with Recovery Rate Using New Proposed Numerical Scheme
Authors: Abdullah Tariq Q. S. , Huang Gang , Al-Sadi Wadhah , Aboelmagd Yasser , Mobarak Wael
Published: July 2024

Food security is a basic human right that guarantees humans an adequate amount of nutritious food. However, plant viruses and agricultural pests cause real damage to food sources, leading to negative impacts on meeting the human right of obtaining a sufficient amount of food. Understanding infectious disease dynamics can help us to design appropriate control and prevention strategies. Although cassava is among the most produced and consumed crops and greatly contributes to food security, cassava mosaic disease causes a decrease in photosynthesis and reduces cassava yield, resulting in a lack of crops. This paper developed a fractional model for cassava mosaic disease (CMD) dynamics based on the Caputo–Fabrizio (CF) fractional derivative to decrease cassava plant infection. We used fixed-point theory to study the existence of a unique solution in the form of the CMD model. A stability analysis of the model was conducted by using fixed-point theory and the Picard technique. A new numerical scheme was proposed for solving the nonlinear system of a fractional model in the sense of the CF-derivative and applied to obtain numerical simulations for a fractional model of the dynamics of CMD. The obtained results are described using figures that show the dynamics and behaviors of the compartments of CMD, and it is concluded that decreasing the population of whitefly vectors can prevent cassava plants from becoming infected better than increasing the recovery rate of the infected cassava plants.
Energy and Structure of the Terbium Domain Wall
Authors: de Campos Marcos F. , de Souza Kaio S. T. , de Lima Ingrid R. , da Silva Charle C. , de Castro Jose A.
Published: July 2024

The domain wall energy is calculated by the balance between exchange, magnetocrystalline anisotropy and magnetoelastic energy contributions. The described method is theoretical and is based on experimental measurements of neutron inelastic scattering. The domain wall energy is determined by both finding the minimum of energy and deriving the energy and setting it to zero. The determination was undertaken for the discrete case, and this means that the calculation was performed for each plane or atomic layer. This is in contrast with the Bloch wall, which assumes continuum mean. The energy of the Lilley domain wall was discussed. Most of the energy of the Bloch wall was comprised inside the Lilley distance (above 99.9% of the energy). Antiferromagnetic interactions strongly decreased the domain wall energy. The negative terms due to antiferromagnetism must be considered in the Hamiltonian describing the exchange energy terms. The domain wall energy and width of terbium were reassessed. The values varied between 83.7 and 95.2 Kelvin (10.3 to 11.2 ergs/cm2). The domain width was estimated to be 57 Angstroms. It was found that a significant part of the total domain wall energy was concentrated on the planes at the center of the domain wall.
Numerical Study of the Influence of Regenerator Structure on the Performance of Hot Blast Stoves
Authors: Zhang Qiuchen , Tang Yu
Published: July 2024

The properties and arrangement of checker bricks in regenerators are crucial for the heat exchange process of hot blast stoves. In this study, a 3D fluid flow heat transfer model is established to analyze the influence of three regenerator layered structures on the combustion and air supply performance of hot blast stoves. The results show that a “silica bricks–high-alumina bricks–clay bricks” three-layer arrangement in regenerators produces a “thermal conduction hindrance effect” at the interface between silica and high-alumina bricks during the 2 h combustion period, which raises the local temperature and improves air supply performance. Compared to the “silica bricks–clay bricks” and “high-alumina bricks–silica bricks–clay bricks” structures, this setup increases the maximum air supply temperature difference to 23 and 64 K, respectively, and extends the effective air supply time by 80 and 320 s, respectively. However, the “thermal conduction hindrance effect” diminishes over longer combustion periods, and by 4 h, the performance across all structures becomes increasingly consistent. Additionally, the study suggests that the temperature level and distribution in the upper part of the regenerator are the key factors determining the air supply performance of hot blast stoves.
Research on the Macro-Cell Corrosion Behavior of Alloyed Corrosion-Resistant Steel for a Transmission Line Steel Structure under a Chloride Corrosion Environment
Authors: Lyu Feng , Zhou Xinyue , Ding Zheng , Zhang Sijie , Zou Gongnian , Wang Guowei , Wang Xing , Qiao Xinglong , Xu Jiahao , Song Dan
Published: July 2024

“The article investigates the macro-cell corrosion behavior and corrosion resistance when the alloyed steel and the carbon steel are used together because the traditional carbon steel is difficult to meet the corrosion resistance and durability of the steel structure of the transmission line in the marine environment.” In this paper, a new type of Cr-alloyed corrosion-resistant steel (00Cr10MoV) is used to partially replace carbon structural steel in order to meet the actual needs of corrosion resistance and service life improvement of steel structures for offshore transmission lines. It is important to systematically study the macro-cell corrosion behavior of combinations of the same type of steel and dissimilar steel, induced by the chloride concentration difference in simulated concrete solutions, and employ electrochemical testing methods to scientifically evaluate the corrosion resistance of steel after macro-cell corrosion. The aim is to study and evaluate the macro-cell corrosion behavior of alloyed corrosion-resistant steel and to lay a foundation for its combined use with carbon steel in a chloride corrosion environment to improve the overall corrosion resistance and service life. Under the same concentration difference, the macro-cell corrosion of the alloyed steel combination is milder compared with the carbon steel combination. The corrosion current of the alloyed steel combination at 29 times the concentration difference is only 1/10 of the carbon steel combination. Moreover, at 29 times the concentration difference, the macro-cell corrosion potential of dissimilar steel is only 1/6 of the combined potential of carbon steel combination under the same concentration difference, and the corrosion current is only 1/10 of that of the carbon steel combination.
The Improving Effects of Probiotic-Added Pollen Substitute Diets on the Gut Microbiota and Individual Health of Honey Bee (Apis mellifera L.)
Authors: Kim Hyunjee , Maigoro Abdulkadir Yusif , Lee Jeong-Hyeon , Frunze Olga , Kwon Hyung-Wook
Published: July 2024

Honey bee (Apis mellifera L.) health is crucial for honey bee products and effective pollination, and it is closely associated with gut bacteria. Various factors such as reduced habitat, temperature, disease, and diet affect the health of honey bees by disturbing the homeostasis of the gut microbiota. In this study, high-throughput 16S rRNA gene sequencing was used to analyze the gut microbiota of honey bees subjected to seven diets over 5 days. Lactobacillus dominated the microbiota in all diets. Cage experiments (consumption, head protein content, and vitellogenin gene expression level) were conducted to verify the effect of the diet. Through a heatmap, the Diet2 (probiotic-supplemented) group was clustered together with the Beebread and honey group, showing high consumption (177.50 ± 26.16 mg/bee), moderately higher survival duration (29.00 ± 2.83 days), protein content in the head (312.62 ± 28.71 µg/mL), and diet digestibility (48.41 ± 1.90%). Additionally, we analyzed the correlation between gut microbiota and health-related indicators in honey bees fed each diet. Based on the overall results, we identified that probiotic-supplemented diets increased gut microbiota diversity and positively affected the overall health of individual honey bees.
Hydrocarbon Accumulation and Overpressure Evolution in Deep–Ultradeep Reservoirs in the Case of the Guole Area of the Tarim Basin
Authors: Qiao Zhanfeng , Zhang Tianfu , Wang Ruyue , Huang Yahao , Xue Yifan , Chen Jiajun , Tian Haonan , Shen Anjiang , Si Chunsong
Published: July 2024

Usually, deep oil and gas accumulation is often controlled by strike–slip faults. However, in the Tarim Basin, deep Ordovician oil and gas accumulations are also found in areas far from the fault zone. The process of oil and gas accumulation in deep reservoirs far from strike–slip fault zones is still unclear at present. The source and evolution of Ordovician fluids were analyzed using inclusion geochemical methods and the U–Pb dating technique. The analysis of rare earth elements and carbon–oxygen–strontium isotopes in the reservoirs showed that the reservoirs were weakly modified by diagenetic fluid. The fluid was derived from the fluid formation during the same period as the seawater, and no oxidizing fluid invaded the reservoir. The late oil and gas reservoirs had good sealing properties. The U–Pb dating results combined with homogenization temperature data revealed that the first-stage oil was charged during the Late Caledonian Period, and the second-stage natural gas was charged during the Middle Yanshanian Period. The evolution of the paleo-pressure showed that the charging of natural gas in the Middle Yanshanian was the main reason for the formation of reservoir overpressure. The strike–slip fault zone was basically inactive in the Middle Yanshanian. During this period, the charged natural gas mainly migrated to the reservoir along the unconformity surface and the open strike–slip fault zone in the upper part of the Ordovician reservoir. The source of the fluid shows that the reservoir in the late stage had good sealing properties, and there was no intrusion of exogenous fluid. The overpressure in the reservoir is well preserved at present.
Radical-Mediated Trifunctionalization Reactions
Authors: Zhang Qiang , Ma Xiaoming , Zhi Sanjun , Zhang Wei
Published: July 2024

Synthetic radicals have intrinsic power for cascading and multifunctional reactions to construct diverse molecular scaffolds. In the previous review series, we covered 1,2-difunctionalizations, remote 1,3-, 1,4-, 1,5-, 1,6-, and 1,7-difunctionalizations, addition followed by cyclization reactions, and cycloaddition-initiated difunctionalizations. Presented in this paper are radical addition-initiated trifunctionalization reactions of alkenes, alkynes, and their derivatives. After the initial radical addition, there are different pathways, such as group or hydrogen atom transfer, cyclization, and radical coupling, to complete the second and third functionalizations.
Exploring the Potential of Oleanolic Acid Dimers–Cytostatic and Antioxidant Activities, Molecular Docking, and ADMETox Profile
Authors: Günther Andrzej , Zalewski Przemysław , Sip Szymon , Bednarczyk-Cwynar Barbara
Published: July 2024

The presented work aimed to explore the potential of oleanolic acid dimers (OADs): their cytostatic and antioxidant activities, molecular docking, pharmacokinetics, and ADMETox profile. The cytostatic properties of oleanolic acid (1) and its 14 synthesised dimers (2a–2n) were evaluated against 10 tumour types and expressed as IC50 values. Molecular docking was performed with the CB-Dock2 server. Antioxidant properties were evaluated with the CUPRAC method. ADMETox properties were evaluated with the ADMETlab Manual (2.0) database. The results indicate that the obtained OADs can be effective cytostatic agents, for which the IC50 not exceeded 10.00 for many tested cancer cell lines. All OADs were much more active against all cell lines than the mother compound (1). All dimers can inhibit the interaction between the 1MP8 protein and cellular proteins with the best results for compounds 2f and 2g with unsaturated bonds within the linker. An additional advantage of the tested OADs was a high level of antioxidant activity, with Trolox equivalent for OADs 2c, 2d, 2g–2j, 2l, and 2m of approximately 0.04 mg/mL, and beneficial pharmacokinetics and ADMETox properties. The differences in the DPPH and CUPRAC assay results obtained for OADs may indicate that these compounds may be effective antioxidants against different radicals.
The Double-Cross of Benzotriazole-Based Polymers as Donors and Acceptors in Non-Fullerene Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Crociani Laura
Published: July 2024

Organic solar cells (OSCs) are considered a very promising technology to convert solar energy to electricity and a feasible option for the energy market because of the advantages of light weight, flexibility, and roll-to-roll manufacturing. They are mainly characterized by a bulk heterojunction structure where a polymer donor is blended with an electron acceptor. Their performance is highly affected by the design of donor–acceptor conjugated polymers and the choice of suitable acceptor. In particular, benzotriazole, a typical electron-deficient penta-heterocycle, has been combined with various donors to provide wide bandgap donor polymers, which have received a great deal of attention with the development of non-fullerene acceptors (NFAs) because of their suitable matching to provide devices with relevant power conversion efficiency (PCE). Moreover, different benzotriazole-based polymers are gaining more and more interest because they are considered promising acceptors in OSCs. Since the development of a suitable method to choose generally a donor/acceptor material is a challenging issue, this review is meant to be useful especially for organic chemical scientists to understand all the progress achieved with benzotriazole-based polymers used as donors with NFAs and as acceptors with different donors in OSCs, in particular referring to the PCE.
Synthesis, Computational Study, and In Vitro α-Glucosidase Inhibitory Action of Thiourea Derivatives Based on 3-Aminopyridin-2(1H)-Ones
Authors: Shulgau Zarina , Palamarchuk Irina , Sergazy Shynggys , Urazbayeva Assel , Gulyayev Alexander , Ramankulov Yerlan , Kulakov Ivan
Published: July 2024

Reactions with allyl-, acetyl-, and phenylisothiocyanate have been studied on the basis of 3-amino-4,6-dimethylpyridine-2(1H)-one, 3-amino-4-phenylpyridine-2-one, and 3-amino-4-(thiophene-2-yl)pyridine-2(1H)-one (benzoyl-)isothiocyanates, and the corresponding thioureide derivatives 8-11a-c were obtained. Twelve thiourea derivatives were obtained and studied for their anti-diabetic activity against the enzyme α-glucosidase in comparison with the standard drug acarbose. The comparison drug acarbose inhibits the activity of α-glucosidase at a concentration of 15 mM by 46.1% (IC50 for acarbose is 11.96 mM). According to the results of the conducted studies, it was shown that alkyl and phenyl thiourea derivatives 8,9a-c, in contrast to their acetyl–(benzoyl) derivatives and 10,11a-c, show high antidiabetic activity. Thus, 1-(4,6-dimethyl-2-oxo-1,2-dihydropyridin-3-yl)-3-phenylthiourea 9a has the highest inhibitory activity against the enzyme α-glucosidase, exceeding the activity of the comparison drug acarbose, which inhibits the activity of α-glucosidase by 56.6% at a concentration of 15 mm (IC50 = 9,77 mM). 1-(6-methyl-2-oxo 4-(thiophen-2-yl)-1,2-dihydropyridin-3-yl)-3-phenylthiourea 9c has inhibitory activity against the enzyme α-glucosidase, comparable to the comparison drug acarbose, inhibiting the activity of α-glucosidase at a concentration of 15 mm per 41.2% (IC50 = 12,94 mM). Compounds 8a, 8b, and 9b showed inhibitory activity against the enzyme α-glucosidase, with a lower activity compared to acarbose, inhibiting the activity of α-glucosidase at a concentration of 15 mM by 23.3%, 26.9%, and 35.2%, respectively. The IC50 against α-glucosidase for compounds 8a, 8b, and 9b was found to be 16.64 mM, 19.79 mM, and 21.79 mM, respectively. The other compounds 8c, 10a, 10b, 10c, 11a, 11b, and 11c did not show inhibitory activity against α-glucosidase. Thus, the newly synthesized derivatives of thiourea based on 3-aminopyridine-2(1H)-ones are promising candidates for the further modification and study of their potential anti-diabetic activity. These positive bioanalytical results will stimulate further in-depth studies, including in vivo models.
Surface Hydrophobicity Strongly Influences Adsorption and Conformation of Amyloid Beta Derived Peptides
Authors: Cheung David L.
Published: July 2024

The formation of amyloid fibrils is a common feature of many protein systems. It has implications in both health, as amyloid fibrils are implicated in over 30 degenerative diseases, and in the biological functions of proteins. Surfaces have long been known to affect the formation of fibrils but the specific effect depends on the details of both the surface and protein. Fully understanding the role of surfaces in fibrillization requires microscopic information on protein conformation on surfaces. In this paper replica exchange molecular dynamics simulation is used to investigate the model fibril forming protein, Aβ(10–40) (a 31-residue segment of the amyloid-beta protein) on surfaces of different hydrophobicity. Similar to other proteins Aβ(10–40) is found to adsorb strongly onto hydrophobic surfaces. It also adopts significantly different sets of conformations on hydrophobic and polar surfaces, as well as in bulk solution. On hydrophobic surfaces, it adopts partially helical structures, with the helices overlapping with beta-strand regions in the mature fibril. These may be helical intermediates on the fibril formation pathway, suggesting a mechanism for the enhanced fibril formation seen on hydrophobic surfaces.
Association between Mediterranean Diet and Advanced Glycation End Products in University Students: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Polić Nikolina , Matulić Viviana , Dragun Tanja , Matek Helena , Marendić Mario , Efendić Ivana Žižić , Russo Andrea , Kolčić Ivana
Published: July 2024

The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between the Mediterranean diet (MD) and the accumulation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) measured by skin autofluorescence. This cross-sectional study included 1016 healthy students from the University of Split, Croatia. Participants completed a self-administered questionnaire. Adherence to the MD was assessed using the Mediterranean Diet Serving Score (MDSS), and tissue AGEs accumulation was measured using the AGE Reader mu (DiagnOptics). Multivariate linear regression was used in the analysis. Students’ age and female gender were associated with higher levels of AGEs, which was likewise found for greater coffee intake, adequate olive oil consumption, smoking, and lower levels of physical activity. Higher consummation of vegetables and eating breakfast regularly were associated with lower AGEs levels. The overall MD adherence was not associated with AGEs, possibly due to very low overall compliance to the MD principles among students (8.3% in women and 3.8% in men). Health perception was positively associated with the MD and nonsmoking and negatively with the perceived stress level, while AGEs did not show significant association with self-rated students’ health. These results indicate that various lifestyle habits are associated with AGEs accumulation even in young and generally healthy people. Hence, health promotion and preventive measures are necessary from an early age.
Outcomes of Bariatric Surgery in Patients with Schizophrenia
Authors: Miñambres Inka , Rubio-Herrera Miguel Ángel , Nicolau Joana , Milad Camila , Morales Maria José , Bueno Marta , Calañas Alfonso , Carceller-Sindreu Mar , de Hollanda Ana
Published: July 2024

Background: Outcomes of bariatric surgery (BS) in patients with schizophrenia are poorly understood. We aimed to analyze the effects of BS in patients with schizophrenia (SZ) or schizoaffective disorder (SZA). Methods: This was a multicenter, retrospective case-control study in patients with SZ or SZA who had undergone BS in seven public referral hospitals in Spain. Controls without psychiatric comorbidity were selected in a 1:4 ratio. Detailed clinical and biochemical data were collected preoperatively and at 12, 24, 36, 48, and 60 months after BS. Results: Twenty patients with SZ (n = 15; 75%) or SZA (n = 5; 25%) and 80 matched controls were studied. There were no differences between patients and controls concerning the evolution of the percentage of total weight loss. The remission rate of the main comorbidities was similar between groups except for hypertension, which was lower in patients with a psychotic disorder from year 3. There were no mortalities within 30 days of surgery in either group. The psychiatric medication burden did not change during follow-up. Conclusions: BS is safe and effective in carefully selected patients with SZ. The course of the psychiatric disease does not seem to be worsened by the procedure.
A Novel Machine-Learning Algorithm to Predict the Early Termination of Nutrition Support Team Follow-Up in Hospitalized Adults: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Yalçın Nadir , Kaşıkcı Merve , Kelleci-Çakır Burcu , Allegaert Karel , Güner-Oytun Merve , Ceylan Serdar , Balcı Cafer , Demirkan Kutay , Halil Meltem , Abbasoğlu Osman
Published: July 2024

Background: For hospitalized adults, it is important to initiate the early reintroduction of oral food in accordance with nutrition support team guidelines. The aim of this study was to develop and validate a machine learning-based algorithm that predicts the early termination of medical nutritional therapy (the transition to oral feeding). Methods: This retrospective cohort study included consecutive adult patients admitted to the Hacettepe hospital (from 1 January 2018 to 31 December 2022). The outcome of the study was the prediction of an early transition to adequate oral feeding before discharge. The dataset was randomly (70/30) divided into training and test datasets. We used six ML algorithms with multiple features to construct prediction models. ML model performance was measured according to the accuracy, area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, and F1 score. We used the Boruta Method to determine the important features and interpret the selected features. Results: A total of 2298 adult inpatients who were followed by a nutrition support team for medical nutritional therapy were included. Patients received parenteral nutrition (1471/2298, 64.01%), enteral nutrition (717/2298, 31.2%), or supplemental parenteral nutrition (110/2298, 4.79%). The median (interquartile range) Nutritional Risk Screening (NRS-2002) score was 5 (1). Six prediction algorithms were used, and the artificial neural network and elastic net models achieved the greatest area under the ROC in all outcomes (AUC = 0.770). Ranked by z-value, the 10 most important features in predicting an early transition to oral feeding in the artificial neural network and elastic net algorithms were parenteral nutrition, surgical wards, surgical outcomes, enteral nutrition, age, supplemental parenteral nutrition, digestive system diseases, gastrointestinal complications, NRS-2002, and impaired consciousness. Conclusions: We developed machine learning models for the prediction of an early transition to oral feeding before discharge. Overall, there was no discernible superiority among the models. Nevertheless, the artificial neural network and elastic net methods provided the highest AUC values. Since the machine learning model is interpretable, it can enable clinicians to better comprehend the features underlying the outcomes. Our study could support personalized treatment and nutritional follow-up strategies in clinical decision making for the prediction of an early transition to oral feeding in hospitalized adult patients.
Compliance and Attitudes towards the Gluten-Free Diet in Celiac Patients in Italy: What Has Changed after a Decade?
Authors: Fiori Federica , Bravo Giulia , Neuhold Susanna , Bartolone Giovanni , Pilo Caterina , Parpinel Maria , Pellegrini Nicoletta
Published: July 2024

This study aims were (i) to describe Italian celiac patients who agreed to participate in the latest web survey and their attitudes toward the GF diet (compliance, perceived limitations, and worries) and (ii) to compare the answers given by the 2011 and 2022 responders. The self-administered questionnaire was distributed through the Italian Coeliac Association channels (link on social media, websites, and newsletters) to all of the celiac patients willing to participate in 2011 and 2022 (2427 and 3529 responders who answered the same questions, respectively). Descriptive analyses and the Pearson’s chi-squared test were performed. The responders were 1 to 84 years old and mainly female. The prevalence of adherent patients in 2022 was 91%, with the highest value (94%) in children (≤10 years old) and adolescents (15−17 years old). Overall, young adults were the most worried group. About a decade after the first survey, we observed a decreasing prevalence of transgression events (−5%) and (at least) occasional temptation (−17%), a decreasing prevalence of health-related and general worries, but an increasing prevalence of social life withdrawal. In conclusion, it is important to periodically monitor celiac patients’ compliance and attitudes towards the gluten-free diet. As also highlighted in international guidelines, a reorganization of the diagnosis/follow-up visits, including an expert dietary consultation, is needed.
Impact of Substituting Meats with Plant-Based Analogues on Health-Related Markers: A Systematic Review of Human Intervention Studies
Authors: Del Bo’ Cristian , Chehade Lara , Tucci Massimiliano , Canclini Federica , Riso Patrizia , Martini Daniela
Published: July 2024

The growing drive towards more sustainable dietary patterns has led to an increased demand for and availability of plant-based meat analogues (PBMAs). This systematic review aims to summarize the currently available evidence from human intervention studies investigating the impact of substituting animal meat (AM) with PBMAs in adults. A total of 19 studies were included. Overall, an increase in satiety following PBMA intake was reported, albeit to different extents and not always accompanied by changes in leptin and ghrelin. PBMAs generally resulted in lower protein bioavailability and a smaller increase in plasma essential amino acids in comparison to AM. However, muscle protein synthesis and physical performance were not affected. Finally, conflicting results have been reported for other outcomes, such as pancreatic and gastrointestinal hormones, oxidative stress and inflammation, vascular function, and microbiota composition. In conclusion, we documented that the impact of substituting AM with PBMA products has been scarcely investigated. In addition, the heterogeneity found in terms of study design, population, outcomes, and findings suggests the need for additional high-quality intervention trials, particularly long-term ones, to better clarify the advantages and potential critical issues of such substitutions within sustainable healthy diets.
Correction: Perin et al. Rabies Virus-Neutralizing Antibodies in Free-Ranging Invasive Wild Boars (Sus scrofa) from Brazil. Pathogens 2024, 13, 303
Authors: Perin Patricia Parreira , Turmina Talita , Arias-Pacheco Carmen Andrea , Gomes Jonathan Silvestre , Andrade Lívia de Oliveira , Zolla Natália de Oliveira , Mendonça Talita Oliveira , Oliveira Wilson Junior , Fahl Willian de Oliveira , Scheffer Karin Correa , Cunha Neto Rene dos Santos , Chierato Maria Eduarda Rodrigues , Mori Enio , Felicio Artur Luiz de Almeida , Haga Guilherme Shin Iwamoto , Guido Maria Carolina , Barrochelo Luiz Henrique , Marcos Affonso dos Santos , Lux Hoppe Estevam Guilherme
Published: July 2024

There was an error in the original publication [...]
Long-Term Stability of Glycopyrrolate Oral Solution Galenic Compound at Different Storage Conditions
Authors: Bellich Barbara , Franzin Martina , Curci Debora , Cirino Mario , Maestro Alessandra , Bennati Giada , Stocco Gabriele , Adami Gianpiero , Maximova Natalia , Grasso Domenico Leonardo , Barbi Egidio , Zanon Davide
Published: July 2024

Glycopyrrolate is a competitive muscarinic receptor antagonist used in the treatment of sialorrhea, especially in pediatrics. Degradation research was conducted to better understand the stability of the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API). Using an HPLC-UV method, we evaluated the chemical stability of the oral solution of the galenic compound glycopyrrolate 0.5 mg/mL under different storage conditions. Method validation was performed according to the International Council for Harmonization (ICH) Q2(R2) guidelines. The results of the stability study of the galenic compound in different storage conditions, with the exception of those stored in glass containers at 45 °C for more than 3 months, were stable (100 ± 10% of the nominal concentration). The aim of this work was to study the stability of the galenic compound glycopyrrolate in two different types of containers and at three different storage temperatures. Glycopyrrolate showed degradation beyond the limits only in glass at 45 °C and after 2 months of storage. The results indicate that oral liquid dosage forms of glycopyrrolate are stable for at least 210 days when stored at room temperature or at 4 °C, in glass or PET, for at least 7 months, maintaining product quality according to the standards established by the European Pharmacopoeia, ensuring long-term coverage for pediatric patient therapies.
Infrared Image Enhancement Based on Adaptive Guided Filter and Global–Local Mapping
Authors: Zhang Hui , Chen Zhiqiang , Cao Jianzhong , Li Cheng
Published: July 2024

Infrared image enhancement technology plays a crucial role in improving image quality, addressing issues like low contrast, lack of sharpness, and poor visual effects within the original images. However, existing decomposition-based algorithms struggle with balancing detail enhancement, noise suppression, and utilizing global and local information effectively. This paper proposes an innovative method for enhancing details in infrared images using adaptive guided filtering and global–local mapping. Initially, the original image is decomposed into its base layer and detail layer through the adaptive guided filter and difference of the Gaussian filter. Subsequently, the detail layer undergoes enhancement using a detail gain factor. Finally, the base layer and enhanced detail layer are merged and remapped to a lower gray level. Experimental results demonstrate significant improvements in global and local contrast, as well as sharpness, with an average gradient enhancement of nearly 3% across various scenes.
Multiphysics Coupling Simulation of Off-Axis Integrated Cavity Optical Sensing System
Authors: Tian Xing , Yuan Jun , Chen Shichao , Cao Xile , Mu Tong , Cheng Gang
Published: July 2024

The optical properties of an off-axis integrated cavity system are influenced by both structural deformation and thermal deformation. In this paper, the finite element simulation and analysis software COMSOL multiphysics was used to numerically simulate the optical system. By coupling geometric optics, solid mechanics, and solid heat transfer and conducting parametric temperature scanning, a multiphysics simulation of the off-axis integrated cavity optical sensing system was achieved. The effects of different temperature conditions on the stress field, displacement field, and optical mirrors were analyzed, and changes in optical properties were assessed using ray trajectories and point diagrams. Additionally, optical simulation software was used to simulate and optimize the experimental optical path, obtaining the distribution of light spots on the detector surface. This provides a theoretical basis for the subsequent optimization of the off-axis integrated cavity optical system.
Origin and Persistence of Lycopodium clavatum and Lycopodium annotinum (Lycopodiaceae) in Scots Pine Forests
Authors: Rimgailė-Voicik Radvilė , Voicikas Aleksandras , Fediajevaitė Julija , Juzėnas Sigitas , Patamsytė Jolanta
Published: July 2024

Understanding the growth dynamics of spore-bearing clonal plant sporophytes and the influence of abiotic and biotic factors is crucial for predicting the persistence of club moss populations and implementing effective habitat management techniques. Despite this, the longevity and development of club-moss populations are rarely studied. This study adopted an integrated approach to assess the probability of repetitive young sporophyte recruitment via sexual propagation in Lycopodium annotinum L. and Lycopodium clavatum L. The size–age problem of clonal spore-bearing forest plants and their niche segregation were addressed. The canopy characteristics, insolation, small-scale disturbance, and genetic polymorphism were studied in temperate semi-natural Scots pine forests in Lithuania. Based on the size of the clones discovered, we hypothesize that initial sporophyte emergence occurred in 20-year-old pine stands, with subsequent sporophyte emergence continuing over time. The emergence was related to small-scale disturbances. High genetic polymorphism indicates that all sporophyte stands studied likely emerged via sexual reproduction. According to Ellenberg values, L. annotinum is related to shady habitats, but our findings show both species coexisting abundantly in the more open habitat, supposedly more suitable for L. clavatum.No significant differences in vegetation relevés and light availability was detected using hemispheric images.
The Antimicrobial Properties of Technical Lignins and Their Derivatives—A Review
Authors: Reyes Diana Carolina , Ma Zhengxin , Romero Juan Jose
Published: July 2024

Lignin represents one of the most abundant plant-derived polymers. It is mostly present in the cell wall, and its primary role is to provide mechanical support to the plant. Chemical processes during wood-pulping yield diverse technical lignins with distinct characteristics. Due to their complex and variable nature, technical lignins are often undervalued and are mainly used as burning fuel in mills. However, various technical lignins have been shown to possess antimicrobial properties. Consequently, there is an increasing interest in understanding the properties and conditions that underlie their antimicrobial characteristics and how we can utilize them for practical applications. This review, for the first time, comprehensively summarized the antimicrobial activities of technical lignins and their potential antimicrobial applications.
Enhancing Clay-Based 3D-Printed Mortars with Polymeric Mesh Reinforcement Techniques
Authors: Pemas Sotirios , Sougioultzi Konstantina , Kouroutzidou Chrysoula , Stefanidou Maria , Konstantinidis Avraam A. , Pechlivani Eleftheria Maria
Published: July 2024

Additive manufacturing (AM) technologies, including 3D mortar printing (3DMP), 3D concrete printing (3DCP), and Liquid Deposition Modeling (LDM), offer significant advantages in construction. They reduce project time, costs, and resource requirements while enabling free design possibilities and automating construction processes, thereby reducing workplace accidents. However, AM faces challenges in achieving superior mechanical performance compared to traditional methods due to poor interlayer bonding and material anisotropies. This study aims to enhance structural properties in AM constructions by embedding 3D-printed polymeric meshes in clay-based mortars. Clay-based materials are chosen for their environmental benefits. The study uses meshes with optimal geometry from the literature, printed with three widely used polymeric materials in 3D printing applications (PLA, ABS, and PETG). To reinforce the mechanical properties of the printed specimens, the meshes were strategically placed in the interlayer direction during the 3D printing process. The results show that the 3D-printed specimens with meshes have improved flexural strength, validating the successful integration of these reinforcements.