bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Importance of Reading the Skin: Cutaneous Metastases of Pancreatic Cancer, a Systematic Review
Authors: Cassalia Fortunato , Bolzon Anna , Ponzano Monica , Ventura Laura , Danese Andrea , Del Fiore Paolo , Belloni Fortina Anna , Jovine Elio , Perri Giampaolo , Cillo Umberto , Marchegiani Giovanni
Published: December 2023

Background: Pancreatic cancer is notorious for its aggressive nature and low survival rate, with less than 10% of patients surviving beyond five years. Early detection is difficult, but skin metastases can be a rare but significant indicator. This systematic review focuses on the epidemiology, clinical features, and histology of skin metastases from pancreatic cancer to determine their importance in early diagnosis and overall management of the disease. Materials and methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, we conducted an exhaustive search of MEDLINE/PubMed, EMBASE, and SCOPUS databases up to June 2023, using specific keywords. Four independent investigators screened the studies using predefined criteria, and two investigators checked the accuracy and consistency of the data extraction. We assessed the quality of the trials using adapted criteria from the Joanna Briggs Institute. A narrative synthesis rather than a meta-analysis was chosen because of the different study designs. Results: The final analysis included 57 patients with skin metastases from pancreatic cancer. Cutaneous metastases, although rare, presented with approximately equal gender distribution and a mean age of 63.4 years. Predominantly non-umbilical (77%), these metastases showed clinical diversity, ranging from asymptomatic nodules to painful or ulcerated lesions. Notably, skin metastases often preceded the diagnosis of primary pancreatic cancer (58%). Primary tumor characteristics revealed different localizations, with adenocarcinoma being the most prevalent histological type (77%). A significant association (p = 0.008) was observed between pancreatic tumor location and the timing of presentation of skin metastases. Tumors located in the body and tail of the pancreas were more likely to manifest skin metastases as an initial clinical manifestation (62.2%) than those in the head of the pancreas (20.8%). Conclusions: In conclusion, although skin metastases are rare, they are important indicators of pancreatic cancer, highlighting the need for multidisciplinary healthcare collaboration and thorough skin examination. Recognizing them could lead to earlier diagnosis, which is crucial in a cancer with limited treatment options.
The Symptomatic Calcification and Ossification of the Ligamentum Flavum in the Spine: Our Experience and Review of the Literature
Authors: Nishikawa Misao , Yoshimura Masaki , Naito Kentaro , Yamagata Toru , Goto Hiroyuki , Hara Mitsuhiro , Ikuno Hiromichi , Goto Takeo
Published: December 2023

Introduction: We report our experience regarding the clinical features and pathological findings of the calcification of the ligamentum flavum (CLF) and ossification of the ligamentum flavum (OLF) in the spine. In addition, we reviewed the previous studies on CLF and OLF to enhance the understanding of these conditions. Materials and Methods: We compared the clinical, radiological, and histopathological features of CLF and OLF. Results: In CLF, a computed tomography (CT) scan showed egg-shaped or speck-like calcification in the ligamentum flavum. Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging demonstrated spinal cord compression due to a thickened ligamentum flavum, which appeared as a low-intensity mass. Pathological findings demonstrated fused islands of calcification resembling sand-like calcification. In OLF, CT showed beak-like ossification extending into the intervertebral foramen. MR imaging demonstrated spinal cord compression by a low-intensity mass. Pathological findings revealed laminar ossification of LF with chondrocytes near the calcification and laminar hyaline cartilage. Conclusions: CLF and OLF appear to be distinct entities based on their clinical, neuroradiological, histopathological, and pathogenetic features. We suggest that the causes of CLF include both metabolic and dystrophic factors, while the pathogenesis of OLF is characterized by enchondral ossification induced by a genetic cascade triggered by shearing/tension stress.
Anti-Inflammatory and Cortical Responses after Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation in Disorders of Consciousness: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Straudi Sofia , Antonioni Annibale , Baroni Andrea , Bonsangue Valentina , Lavezzi Susanna , Koch Giacomo , Tisato Veronica , Ziliotto Nicole , Basaglia Nino , Secchiero Paola , Manfredini Fabio , Lamberti Nicola
Published: December 2023

Disorders of consciousness (DoC) due to severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) are associated with severe disability and an alteration of cortical activation, angiogenesis, and inflammation, which are crucial elements for behavioural recovery. This exploratory study aimed to evaluate anti-inflammatory and cortical responses after transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) in traumatic prolonged disorders of consciousness. Ten minimally conscious state (MCS) patients underwent ten sessions of anodal tDCS (five sessions/week, two weeks, 40 min/session) on the primary motor cortex bilaterally. Clinical evaluations were performed using the Coma Recovery Scale–Revised (CRS-R) pre- and post-treatment. In contrast, after single and multiple tDCS sessions, the haemodynamic cortical response was obtained with functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS). Moreover, angiogenesis (angiopoietin-2, BMP9, endoglin, HbEFG, HGF, IL8, Leptin, PLGF, VEGF-A, and VEGF-C) and inflammation (GM-CSF, IFNg, IP10, MCP1, and TNFα) circulating biomarkers were collected. A significant haemodynamic response was observed after a single tDCS session, with an increased activation from 4.4 (3.1–6.1) to 7.6 (2.9–15.7) a.u. (p = 0.035). After ten tDCS sessions, a significant reduction of angiopoietin-2, VEGF-C, and IP-10 was detected. Moreover, a correlation between behavioural (CRS-R), TNFα (r = 0.89; p = 0.007), and IP10 (r = 0.81; p = 0.014) variation was found. In conclusion, a single tDCS session can increase the cortical activation in MCS patients. Moreover, multiple tDCS sessions showed an anti-inflammatory effect related to behavioural improvement.
Effectiveness of a Novel Temperature-Responsive Hydrogel (PF72) for Postoperative Pain Relief in Breast Augmentation
Authors: Cho Jeongmok , Kim Ki Hyun , Lee Won , Go Ju Young , Kim Seong Hwan
Published: December 2023

Breast augmentation can cause severe postoperative pain, leading to an increased length of hospital stay. Postoperative pain management following breast surgery has traditionally involved intravenous and oral analgesics. However, the misuse of opioids can cause severe complications. As a result, several alternative methods have been suggested. Fifty patients were included in this study. All the patients underwent dual-plane pocket dissection using the transaxillary approach and received smooth-type breast implants. The intervention group included 25 patients who received PF72 combined with ropivacaine, and the control group included 25 patients who received only bupivacaine. The Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) score was used to evaluate each patient’s pain. Three hours after the surgery, the average NRS scores of the control and intervention groups were 3.75 and 2.48, respectively. Six hours after the operation, the NRS scores of the control and intervention groups increased to 4.77 and 3.02, respectively. PF72 combined with ropivacaine was more effective than only bupivacaine for pain control in patients who underwent breast augmentations.
The Association between Preoperative Vitamin D Levels and Postoperative Complications in Patients Undergoing Colorectal Liver Metastasis Surgery
Authors: Mahamid Ahmad , Kazlow Esther , David Ariel Matan , Abu-Zaydeh Omar , Abu Shtaya Aasem , Froylich Dvir , Khoury Wissam , Sadot Eran , Haddad Riad
Published: December 2023

(1) Background: Over the past several years, there has been a renewed interest with regard to the effect of pre-operative vitamin D levels on post-surgical outcomes. Pre-operative vitamin D deficiency has been associated with many negative post-operative outcomes. However, the role of vitamin D in postoperative outcomes in colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM) resection is relatively uninvestigated. Our study investigated the correlation between preoperative vitamin D levels and postoperative complications in patients undergoing resection for CRLM. (2) Methods: We retrospectively examined the post-operative course of 109 patients, who were evaluated based upon preoperative vitamin D levels: the first group had vitamin D levels less than 25 nmol/L (VIT D < 25 nmol/L) (n = 12) vs. the second group who had vitamin D levels equal to or greater than 25 nmol/L (VIT D ≥ 25 nmol/L) (n = 97). (3) Results: Patients with lower pre-operative vitamin D levels (VIT D < 25 nmol/L) had significantly higher rates of blood transfusions (33.3% vs. 10.3%, p = 0.01), post-operative surgical complications (50% vs. 17.5%, p = 0.009), and infectious complications (25% vs. 7.2%, p = 0.04). However, there was no difference in overall survival seen between the two groups. (4) Conclusions: The results of our study indicate that patients with preoperative vitamin D deficiency (defined as preoperative vitamin D levels less than 25 nmol/L) may have an increased risk of postoperative complications in patients undergoing liver surgery for metastatic colorectal cancer.
Experiences of Participants with Spinal Cord Injury at an Active Rehabilitation Camp
Authors: Wilhelmsen Terese , Lannem Anne Marie , Sørensen Marit , Augutis Marika , Gustafsson Henrik
Published: December 2023

This study explored the physical, social, and psychological benefits of an active rehabilitation (AR) camp as experienced by participants with spinal cord injury (SCI), and perceived fitness and mastery of being physically active six months after the camp. The study used a mixed-method design with pre- (n = 23), post- (n = 23), and follow-up questionnaires (n = 18) and individual interviews (n = 8). Fuzzy qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) was used to analyze the quantitative data and qualitative content analysis was used to analyze the qualitative data. Results showed that benefits were mainly experienced in the social and psychological domains. As for the physical domain, younger and more recently injured persons with tetraplegia reported more benefits. Six months after the camp, being in the preparation stage of change and being somewhat physically active were necessary and sufficient conditions for experiencing mastery of physical activity regardless of injury type, but only persons with paraplegia experienced fitness benefits. Qualitative data shed further light on the perceived benefits of the camp. The knowledge gained from this study might help practitioners to tailor interventions to individual needs and researchers to ask questions that take into consideration the complexity of active rehabilitation and changes in physical activity behavior for people with SCI.
Exocentric and Egocentric Views for Biomedical Data Analytics in Virtual Environments—A Usability Study
Authors: Ng Jing , Arness David , Gronowski Ashlee , Qu Zhonglin , Lau Chng Wei , Catchpoole Daniel , Nguyen Quang Vinh
Published: December 2023

Biomedical datasets are usually large and complex, containing biological information about a disease. Computational analytics and the interactive visualisation of such data are essential decision-making tools for disease diagnosis and treatment. Oncology data models were observed in a virtual reality environment to analyse gene expression and clinical data from a cohort of cancer patients. The technology enables a new way to view information from the outside in (exocentric view) and the inside out (egocentric view), which is otherwise not possible on ordinary displays. This paper presents a usability study on the exocentric and egocentric views of biomedical data visualisation in virtual reality and their impact on usability on human behaviour and perception. Our study revealed that the performance time was faster in the exocentric view than in the egocentric view. The exocentric view also received higher ease-of-use scores than the egocentric view. However, the influence of usability on time performance was only evident in the egocentric view. The findings of this study could be used to guide future development and refinement of visualisation tools in virtual reality.
Numerical Analysis of Dynamic Response and Liquefaction Phenomena in Sandy Seabed Foundation around a Semi-Circular Breakwater under Wave Loading
Authors: Liu Junwei , Jia Yunping , Cui Lin , Sun Honglei , Lv Xu , Asheghabadi Mohsen Saleh
Published: December 2023

Understanding the stability of the seabed foundation holds paramount significance in guaranteeing the safety and structural soundness of the breakwater alongside additional offshore structures. This study aimed to investigate the stability of a sandy seabed foundation around a semi-circular breakwater under wave loading in nearshore areas. A coupled numerical model of waves, a semi-circular breakwater, and the seabed was developed based on the OpenFOAM platform. The VARANS equations were used to govern the wave behavior. Meanwhile, the Biot’s partially dynamic model was employed to numerically simulate the seabed response considering both consolidation under self-weight and dynamic response under wave loading. The effects of various wave parameters, seabed properties, and the radius of the structure on the dynamic response of the seabed and the depth of liquefaction were investigated. The numerical results indicate that an increase in wave height, period, and permeability coefficient intensifies the dynamic response of the seabed soil. Furthermore, an increase in water depth weakened the soil’s dynamic response. There was a negative correlation between the radius of the semi-circular breakwater and the dynamic response. The influence of Poisson’s ratio on the dynamic response of the seabed was relatively small. Furthermore, a stronger dynamic pore pressure response was observed at the connection between the semi-circular breakwater and the rubble foundation.
Water-Tank and Semi-Field Experimental Investigation of a Hose Net Fish-Hauling Device for Next-Generation Set-Net Fishing
Authors: Li Qiao , Dong Shuchuang , Furuichi Daigo , Mizukami Yoichi , Kitazawa Daisuke
Published: December 2023

The flexible fire hose and net (hose net) is a novel fish-hauling device developed for set-net fishery. The hose net is placed inside the box chamber net, air is injected from one edge of the hose net, the hoses are inflated, and the buoyancy force is increased. The net floats up gradually, cornering the fish on the other edge. In previous studies, we have conducted a series of floating-up and sinking-down experiments to evaluate the performance of the hose net in calm water. In this study, aimed at the practical implementation of the hose net fish-hauling system, we conducted a water tank experiment and a semi-field test to confirm the operation of the hose net, which was installed inside a box chamber net model. The results demonstrated that the net could float up gradually in an ideal form and stretched on the surface of the box net. The time taken to float up processes varied with the air injected into the auxiliary hose and hose net, so that the motion of the hose net could be controlled by adjusting the air at different parts of practical operation. Furthermore, semi-field trials were conducted to verify its performance in the natural marine environment and its ability to capture schools of fish. Overall, this innovative hose net fish-hauling device is expected to be valuable for next-generation set-net fishing.
Effects of Physical Properties and Environmental Conditions on the Natural Dispersion of Oil
Authors: Wang Chenfang , Han Longxi , Zhang Yi , Jiang Anqi , Wang Jie , Niu Xiangming
Published: December 2023

The natural dispersion of oil depends on the oil types, wave-mixing energy, and the temperature and salinity of water. Laboratory experiments were conducted to investigate the effects of these factors on oil dispersion. The results demonstrated that the increase in temperature significantly enhanced the oil dispersion efficiency, particularly for low-viscosity oils. At 30 °C, the dispersion efficiency is 2 times higher than that at 15 °C, while salinity has no significant effect on dispersion efficiency. Nonlinear fitting results revealed an exponential increase in dispersion efficiency with the energy dissipation rate. Furthermore, partial correlation analysis was employed to examine the effects of oil density, viscosity, and surface tension on dispersion efficiency. The results indicated a high correlation between density, viscosity, and dispersion efficiency (r = −0.801, r = −0.812), whereas the correlation coefficient of surface tension was low (r = −0.286). Based on these findings, linear and nonlinear regression models were established between dispersion efficiency and density and viscosity, enabling a rough estimation of oil spill dispersion efficiency under low sea state conditions.
Estimation of Growth and Size at First Maturity under a Multimodel Approach of Anadara tuberculosa (Sowerby, 1833) on the Southeast Coast of the Gulf of California
Authors: Ortega-Lizárraga Gilberto Genaro , Lizárraga-Rojas Maleny , Gómez-Medina Lorenia Guadalupe , Guzmán-Ibarra Juan Eduardo , Muñoz-Rubí Horacio A. , Mendivil-Mendoza Jaime Edzael , Aragón-Noriega Eugenio Alberto
Published: December 2023

The clam fishery in northwestern Mexico encompasses the mangrove cockle Anadara tuberculosa. It is extracted manually, at low tides and between the roots of mangroves. Biological samplings were carried out in Estero Las Lajitas, Sinaloa, from May 2021 to April 2022. A total of 661 A. tuberculosa organisms were analyzed, of which 126 were males, were 363 females and 172 were undifferentiated, yielding a statistically different overall sex ratio between females and males (1♀:0.3♂) (X2 = 113.19; p < 0.05). The length–weight relationship showed a potential type (W = 0.0002L3.125) (95% CI 3.027–3.222 for b). To determine the growth of the species, five models were employed: von Bertalanffy, Gompertz, Logistic, Richards, and Gompertz using an oscillatory component (GO). The Akaike Corrected Information Index for Small Samples (AICC) was used. The GO model yielded the lowest AICC (L∞ = 80.98 mm 95% CI 77.59–84.36, k = 1.02 year−1 95% CI 0.89–1.16), a low growth oscillation intensity (C = 0.03), and slower growth in August (WP = 1.67). The Logistic and Gompertz models were used to calculate the size-at-maturity (L50%). Gompertz obtained the lowest AICC with L50% = 32.53 mm (95% CI 30.67–34.31). Considering the lack of biological information and the parameters generated in the present investigation, as regards A. tuberculosa on the coast of Sinaloa, Mexico, its dissemination is essential for the adequate management of the fishery.
Local Defense Factors in Cleft-Affected Palate in Children before and during Milk Dentition Age: A Pilot Study
Authors: Ozola Laura , Pilmane Mara
Published: December 2023

One of the most frequent congenital orofacial defects is the cleft lip and palate. Local tissue defense factors are known to be important in immune response and inflammatory and healing processes in the cleft tissue; however, they have only been researched in older children during mixed dentition. Thus, the aim of this study is to assess the distribution of LL-37, CD-163, IL-10, HBD-2, HBD-3, and HBD-4 in children before and during milk dentition. The unique and rare material of palate tissue was obtained from 13 patients during veloplastic surgeries during the time span of 20 years. Immunohistochemistry, light microscopy, semi-quantitative evaluation, and non-parametric statistical analysis were used. A significant decrease in HBD-3 and HBD-4 in the connective tissue was found, as well as several mutual statistically significant and strong correlations between HBD-2, HBD-3, HBD-4, and LL-37. Deficiency of HBD-3 and HBD-4 suggests promotion of chronic inflammation. The scarcity of HBD-4 could be connected to the different signaling pathways of dental pulp cells. Mutual correlations imply changes in the epithelial barrier, amplified healing efficiency, and increased antibacterial line of defense. Deprivation of changes in IL-10 quantity points to possible suppression of the factor. The presence of similar CD-163 immunoreactive substances produced by M2 macrophages was also observed.
Sovereign Debt Crisis and Fiscal Devolution
Authors: Nakatani Ryota
Published: December 2023

How is the probability of a sovereign debt crisis affected by fiscal devolution? Using annual cross-country panel data from 82 advanced and developing countries, the association between fiscal decentralization and the sovereign debt crisis is investigated. We adopt an instrumental variable probit model to address potential endogeneity. The research distinguishes between tax policies and spending policies. The results reveal that local tax autonomy reduces the probability of a sovereign debt crisis. In contrast, expenditure devolution is found to increase the probability of a sovereign debt crisis. These favorable and unfavorable effects of fiscal devolution are more evident in the case of decentralization to local governments than in the case of decentralization to subnational governments. In terms of relative magnitudes, our discrete choice analysis demonstrates that the undesirable effects of expenditure decentralization are greater than the desirable effects of tax revenue decentralization. Therefore, countries should be cautious about the risks associated with fiscal devolution, particularly the contrasting impact of tax revenue and spending decentralization on the likelihood that sovereign debt crises occur.
Modeling the Flowering Activation Motif during Vernalization in Legumes: A Case Study of M. trancatula
Authors: Duk Maria A. , Gursky Vitaly V. , Samsonova Maria G. , Surkova Svetlana Yu.
Published: December 2023

In many plant species, flowering is promoted by the cold treatment or vernalization. The mechanism of vernalization-induced flowering has been extensively studied in Arabidopsis but remains largely unknown in legumes. The orthologs of the FLC gene, a major regulator of vernalization response in Arabidopsis, are absent or non-functional in the vernalization-sensitive legume species. Nevertheless, the legume integrator genes FT and SOC1 are involved in the transition of the vernalization signal to meristem identity genes, including PIM (AP1 ortholog). However, the regulatory contribution of these genes to PIM activation in legumes remains elusive. Here, we presented the theoretical and data-driven analyses of a feed-forward regulatory motif that includes a vernalization-responsive FT gene and several SOC1 genes, which independently activate PIM and thereby mediate floral transition. Our theoretical model showed that the multiple regulatory branches in this regulatory motif facilitated the elimination of no-sense signals and amplified useful signals from the upstream regulator. We further developed and analyzed four data-driven models of PIM activation in Medicago trancatula in vernalized and non-vernalized conditions in wild-type and fta1-1 mutants. The model with FTa1 providing both direct activation and indirect activation via three intermediate activators, SOC1a, SOC1b, and SOC1c, resulted in the most relevant PIM dynamics. In this model, the difference between regulatory inputs of SOC1 genes was nonessential. As a result, in the M. trancatula model, the cumulative action of SOC1a, SOC1b, and SOC1c was favored. Overall, in this study, we first presented the in silico analysis of vernalization-induced flowering in legumes. The considered vernalization network motif can be supplemented with additional regulatory branches as new experimental data become available.
Chronic Kidney Disease Associated with Ischemic Heart Disease: To What Extent Do Biomarkers Help?
Authors: Cepoi Maria-Ruxandra , Duca Stefania Teodora , Chetran Adriana , Costache Alexandru Dan , Spiridon Marilena Renata , Afrăsânie Irina , Leancă Sabina Andreea , Dmour Bianca-Ana , Matei Iulian Theodor , Miftode Radu Stefan , Miftode Larisa , Prepeliuc Cristian Sorin , Haba Mihai Ștefan Cristian , Bădescu Minerva Codruța , Costache Irina Iuliana
Published: December 2023

Chronic kidney disease represents a complex and multifaceted pathology characterized by the presence of structural or functional renal anomalies associated with a persistent reduction in renal function. As the disease progresses, complications arise due to the chronic inflammatory syndrome, hydro-electrolytic disorders, and toxicity secondary to the uremic environment. Cardiovascular complications are the leading cause of death for these patients. Ischemic cardiac pathology can be both a consequence and complication of chronic kidney disease, highlighting the need to identify specific cardiorenal dysfunction biomarkers targeting pathophysiological mechanisms common to both conditions. This identification is crucial for establishing accurate diagnoses, prognoses, and risk stratifications for patients. This work is intended to elucidate the intricate relationship between chronic kidney disease and ischemic heart disease and to investigate the roles of cardiorenal biomarkers, including cardiac troponin, natriuretic peptides, galectin-3, copeptin, fibroblast growth factor 23 and its co-receptor Klotho, soluble suppression of tumorigenicity 2, and plasma growth differentiation factor 15.
DOA-Estimation Method Based on Improved Spatial-Smoothing Technique
Authors: Hou Yujun , Wang Xuhu , Ding Lei , Jin Xu , Zhang Qunfei
Published: December 2023

To improve the data utilization of the sensor array and direction-of-arrival-(DOA)-estimation performance for coherent signals, a DOA-estimation method with a modified spatial-smoothing technique is proposed. The covariance matrix of the received data of the sensor array is decomposed to obtain the signal subspace vectors, and the obtained vectors are smoothed in the proposed method. Then, a new data covariance matrix is constructed by using the autocorrelation covariance matrix of the intra-subarrays and the cross-correlation covariance matrix of the inter-subarrays. Finally, the DOA of the incident signal is estimated, using the new data covariance matrix with the multiple-signal-classification-(MUSIC) algorithm. The data-processing results of the simulation and lake test show that the modified method has stronger decoherence ability, as it utilizes more comprehensive coherent signal information. It also has better azimuth-estimation performance and robustness in the case of a low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), few snapshots, and small incident-angle intervals when compared to the traditional method. Therefore, the modified method has great engineering application value.
Some Inverse Problems of Two-Dimensional Stokes Flows by the Method of Fundamental Solutions and Kalman Filter
Authors: Shao Yeqin , Jiang Quan
Published: December 2023

Some inverse problems of Stokes flow, including noisy boundary conditions, unknown angular velocity, and dynamic viscous constant identification are studied in this paper. The interpolation equations for those inverse problems are constructed using the method of fundamental solutions (MFS). Based on the noise addition technique, the inverse problems are solved using MFS and a Kalman filter. It is seen from numerical experiments that these approaches and algorithms are valid and have strong robustness and high accuracy in solving inverse Stokes problems.
Design and Analysis of an Individual-Based Model for Malware Propagation on IoT Networks
Authors: Martín del Rey A.
Published: December 2023

The main goal of this work is to propose a novel compartmental SEA (Susceptible–Exposed–Attacked) model to simulate malware spreading on an IoT (Internet of Things) network. This is a deterministic and individual-based model, whose main novelty compared to others lies in the used of continuous mathematical techniques, such as ordinary differential equations, in the description of local transition rules that define the changes of the states of the devices. These states are given by probability vectors representing the probabilities of being susceptible, exposed and attacked at each step of time. The qualitative study of the model is presented, and several simulations are performed.
Multiplicity Results of Solutions to the Double Phase Problems of Schrödinger–Kirchhoff Type with Concave–Convex Nonlinearities
Authors: Kim Yun-Ho , Jeong Taek-Jun
Published: December 2023

The present paper is devoted to establishing several existence results for infinitely many solutions to Schrödinger–Kirchhoff-type double phase problems with concave–convex nonlinearities. The first aim is to demonstrate the existence of a sequence of infinitely many large-energy solutions by applying the fountain theorem as the main tool. The second aim is to obtain that our problem admits a sequence of infinitely many small-energy solutions. To obtain these results, we utilize the dual fountain theorem. In addition, we prove the existence of a sequence of infinitely many weak solutions converging to 0 in L∞-space. To derive this result, we exploit the dual fountain theorem and the modified functional method.
Nearest Neighbor Recurrence Relations for Meixner–Angelesco Multiple Orthogonal Polynomials of the Second Kind
Authors: Arvesú Jorge , Quintero Roba Alejandro J.
Published: December 2023

This paper studies a new family of Angelesco multiple orthogonal polynomials with shared orthogonality conditions with respect to a system of weight functions, which are complex analogs of Pascal distributions on a legged star-like set. The emphasis is placed on the algebraic properties, such as the raising operators, the Rodrigues-type formula, the explicit expression of the polynomials, and the nearest neighbor recurrence relations.
Metabolomics in NEC: An Updated Review
Authors: Bosco Alice , Piu Claudia , Picciau Marta Emanuela , Pintus Roberta , Fanos Vassilios , Dessì Angelica
Published: December 2023

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) represents the most common and lethal acute gastrointestinal emergency of newborns, mainly affecting those born prematurely. It can lead to severe long-term sequelae and the mortality rate is approximately 25%. Furthermore, the diagnosis is difficult, especially in the early stages, due to multifactorial pathogenesis and complex clinical pictures with mild and non-specific symptoms. In addition, the existing tests have poor diagnostic value. Thus, the scientific community has been focusing its attention on the identification of non-invasive biomarkers capable of prediction, early diagnosis and discriminating NEC from other intestinal diseases in order to intervene early and block the progression of the pathology. In this regard, the use of “omics” technologies, especially metabolomics and microbiomics, could be a fundamental synergistic strategy to study the pathophysiology of NEC. In addition, a deeper knowledge of the microbiota–host cross-talk can clarify the metabolic pathways potentially involved in the pathology, allowing for the identification of specific biomarkers. In this article, the authors analyze the state-of-the-art concerning the application of metabolomics and microbiota analysis to investigate this pathology and discuss the future possibility of the metabolomic fingerprint of patients for diagnostic purposes.
An Atypical Course of Cardiomyopathy Syndrome (CMS) in Farmed Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar) Fed a Clinical Nutrition Diet
Authors: Rennemo Johan , Berge Kjetil , Yousaf Muhammad Naveed , Eriksen Tommy Berger , Welde Eirik , Robertsen Camilla , Johansen Bjarne , McGurk Charles , Rimstad Espen , Koppang Erling Olaf , Bjørgen Håvard
Published: December 2023

Cardiomyopathy syndrome (CMS) poses a significant threat to farmed Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar), leading to high mortality rates during the seawater phase. Given that controlled experimental challenge trials with PMCV do not reproduce the mortality observed in severe field outbreaks of CMS, field trials on natural CMS outbreaks are warranted. This field study explored the impact of a clinical nutrition intervention, specifically a diet enriched with eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), on a severe CMS outbreak in a commercial sea farm. CMS was diagnosed in a single sea cage with high mortality rates. Histopathological analysis, RT-qPCR in situ hybridization for virus detection, and fatty acid composition analysis were used to monitor the impact of disease and the inclusion of EPA and DHA in heart tissue. Following the implementation of clinical nutrition, a decline in mortality rates, regression of CMS-associated changes, and a significant reduction in piscine myocarditis virus (PMCV) RNA load were observed within the salmon population. Fatty acid composition analysis of heart samples demonstrated increased levels of EPA and DHA, reinforcing the association between dietary factors, viral load dynamics, and overall fish health. Although further validation is needed in future studies, as field trials may not be sufficient to establish causation, our results indicate that optimizing the EPA + DHA levels may prove beneficial in severe CMS outbreaks.
Bacterial and Microeukaryotic Community Compositions and Their Assembly Processes in Lakes on the Eastern Qinghai-Tibet Plateau
Authors: Wang Dandan , Huang Yuefei , Jia Haichao , Yang Haijiao
Published: December 2023

Bacterial and microeukaryotic community compositions and their assembly processes have remained challenging and remained unclear in lake ecosystems on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau (QTP). We revealed the diversity and community compositions, driving factors, ecological assembly processes, and co-occurrence networks of bacterial and microeukaryotic communities in water bodies of the eight lake ecosystems across the Eastern QTP. The results demonstrated that the predominant bacteria in most samples were Proteobacteria, with an average relative abundance of 41.78%, whereas the most abundant of microeukaryotes differed among the sample sites. The redundancy analysis revealed that latitude and pH were the most important driving factors in shaping the bacterial and microeukaryotic community compositions. Homogeneous selection (56.40%) was the dominant process in assembling the bacterial communities, whereas dispersal limitation (67.24%) was the major process in governing the microeukaryotic communities. Furthermore, dissolved organic carbon and salinity were the major factors mediating the balance of deterministic and stochastic assembly processes in the bacterial and microeukaryotic communities. Both the bacterial and microeukaryotic community co-occurrence networks exhibited topological features of modularity and non-random topological features. The results offer insights into the mechanisms underpinning bacterial and microeukaryotic diversities and communities in the lake ecosystems on the QTP.
Quorum Sensing Regulates the Production of Methanethiol in Vibrio harveyi
Authors: Zhou Tiantian , Wang Jinyan , Todd Jonathan D. , Zhang Xiao-Hua , Zhang Yunhui
Published: December 2023

Methanethiol (MeSH) and dimethyl sulfide (DMS) are important volatile organic sulfur compounds involved in atmospheric chemistry and climate regulation. However, little is known about the metabolism of these compounds in the ubiquitous marine vibrios. Here, we investigated MeSH/DMS production and whether these processes were regulated by quorum-sensing (QS) systems in Vibrio harveyi BB120. V. harveyi BB120 exhibited strong MeSH production from methionine (Met) (465 nmol mg total protein−1) and weak DMS production from dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP) cleavage. The homologs of MegL responsible for MeSH production from L-Met widely existed in vibrio genomes. Using BB120 and its nine QS mutants, we found that the MeSH production was regulated by HAI-1, AI-2 and CAI-1 QS pathways, as well as the luxO gene located in the center of this QS cascade. The regulation role of HAI-1 and AI-2 QS systems in MeSH production was further confirmed by applying quorum-quenching enzyme MomL and exogenous autoinducer AI-2. By contrast, the DMS production from DMSP cleavage showed no significant difference between BB120 and its QS mutants. Such QS-regulated MeSH production may help to remove excess Met that can be harmful for vibrio growth. These results emphasize the importance of QS systems and the MeSH production process in vibrios.
A Machine Learning-Based Diagnostic Model for Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis Utilizing Fecal Microbiome Analysis
Authors: Kim Hyeonwoo , Na Ji Eun , Kim Sangsoo , Kim Tae-Oh , Park Soo-Kyung , Lee Chil-Woo , Kim Kyeong Ok , Seo Geom-Seog , Kim Min Suk , Cha Jae Myung , Koo Ja Seol , Park Dong-Il
Published: December 2023

Recent research has demonstrated the potential of fecal microbiome analysis using machine learning (ML) in the diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), mainly Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). This study employed the sparse partial least squares discriminant analysis (sPLS-DA) ML technique to develop a robust prediction model for distinguishing among CD, UC, and healthy controls (HCs) based on fecal microbiome data. Using data from multicenter cohorts, we conducted 16S rRNA gene sequencing of fecal samples from patients with CD (n = 671) and UC (n = 114) while forming an HC cohort of 1462 individuals from the Kangbuk Samsung Hospital Healthcare Screening Center. A streamlined pipeline based on HmmUFOTU was used. After a series of filtering steps, 1517 phylotypes and 1846 samples were retained for subsequent analysis. After 100 rounds of downsampling with age, sex, and sample size matching, and division into training and test sets, we constructed two binary prediction models to distinguish between IBD and HC and CD and UC using the training set. The binary prediction models exhibited high accuracy and area under the curve (for differentiating IBD from HC (mean accuracy, 0.950; AUC, 0.992) and CD from UC (mean accuracy, 0.945; AUC, 0.988)), respectively, in the test set. This study underscores the diagnostic potential of an ML model based on sPLS-DA, utilizing fecal microbiome analysis, highlighting its ability to differentiate between IBD and HC and distinguish CD from UC.
Effect of Gas Composition on Surfactant Injectivity in a Surfactant-Alternating-Gas Foam Process
Authors: Gong Jiakun , Wang Yuan , Tewari Raj Deo , Kamarul Bahrim Ridhwan-Zhafri B. , Rossen William
Published: December 2023

Aqueous foam is a dispersion of gas in liquid, where the liquid acts as the continuous phase and the gas is separated by thin liquid films stabilized by a surfactant. Foam injection is a widely used technique in various applications, including CO2 sequestration, enhanced oil recovery, soil remediation, etc. Surfactant-alternating-gas (SAG) is a preferred approach for foam injection, and injectivity plays a vital role in determining the efficiency of the SAG process. Different gases can be applied depending on the process requirements and availability. However, the underlying mechanisms by which gas composition impacts injectivity are not yet fully understood. In this work, the effect of gas composition on fluid behavior and injectivity in a SAG process was investigated using three gases: N2, CO2, and Kr. Our observations revealed that gas solubility in liquid was key for the formation and evolution of liquid fingers, and therefore was very important for liquid injectivity. A lower gas solubility in liquid led to a slower increase in surfactant solution injectivity. In addition, the development of surfactant solution injectivity took significantly longer when the surfactant solution was partially pre-saturated compared to when it was unsaturated. Additionally, the propagation of the collapsed-foam bank during gas injection was accelerated when the gas had a greater solubility in water.
Experimental and Theoretical Screening of Core Gold Nanoparticles and Their Binding Mechanism to an Anticancer Drug, 2-Thiouracil
Authors: Lorenzana-Vázquez Génesis , Adams Daniel G. , Reyna Lauren G. , Meléndez Enrique , Pavel Ioana E.
Published: December 2023

This study demonstrated the capability of two readily available optical spectroscopy tools, namely UV-Vis absorption spectrophotometry and Raman/surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy, to select in a rapid and noninvasive manner the most homogenous gold nanoparticle (AuNP) models and to identify their chemical binding mechanism to 2-thiouracil (2-TU). 2-TU is an anticancer drug of great promise in the antiproliferative and photothermal therapies of cancer. The citrate-capped AuNPs emerged as the most stable as well as time- and cost-effective AuNP model out of the three widely used colloidal nanocores (citrate-, borohydride-citrate-, and sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS)-capped AuNPs) that were examined. 2-TU chemically attached to the relatively monodispersed AuNPs via a chemisorption mechanism. The 2-TU-AuNPs complex formed through the covalent bonding of the S atom of 2-TU to the nanosurface in a vertical orientation. The spectroscopic results were then confirmed with the help of density functional theory (DFT) calculations and other physicochemical characterization tools for nanomaterials such as transmission electron microscopy (TEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and zeta potential. Overall, the purified 2-TU-AuNPs were found to be spherical, had an average diameter of 25 ± 2 nm, a narrow size distribution (1–30 nm), a sharp localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) peak at 525 nm, and a negative surface charge (−14 mV).
Design and Synthesis of D3R Bitopic Ligands with Flexible Secondary Binding Fragments: Radioligand Binding and Computational Chemistry Studies
Authors: Tian Gui-Long , Hsieh Chia-Ju , Taylor Michelle , Lee Ji Youn , Luedtke Robert R. , Mach Robert H.
Published: December 2023

A series of bitopic ligands based on Fallypride with a flexible secondary binding fragment (SBF) were prepared with the goal of preparing a D3R-selective compound. The effect of the flexible linker ((R,S)-trans-2a–d), SBFs ((R,S)-trans-2h–j), and the chirality of orthosteric binding fragments (OBFs) ((S,R)-trans-d, (S,R)-trans-i, (S,S)-trans-d, (S,S)-trans-i, (R,R)-trans-d, and (R,R)-trans-i) were evaluated in in vitro binding assays. Computational chemistry studies revealed that the interaction of the fragment binding to the SBF increased the distance between the pyrrolidine nitrogen and ASP1103.32 of the D3R, thereby reducing the D3R affinity to a suboptimal level.
Co-Doping Effect of Mn2+ and Eu3+ on Luminescence in Strontiowhitlockite Phosphors
Authors: Nikiforov Ivan V. , Spassky Dmitry A. , Krutyak Nataliya R. , Shendrik Roman Yu. , Zhukovskaya Evgenia S. , Aksenov Sergey M. , Deyneko Dina V.
Published: December 2023

A new series of Sr-based phosphates, Sr9−xMnxEu(PO4)7, were synthesized using the high-temperature solid-state method in air. It was found that these compounds have the same structure as strontiowhitlockite, which is a β-Ca3(PO4)2 (or β-TCP) structure. The concentration of Mn2+ ions required to form a pure strontiowhitlockite phase was determined. An unusual partial reduction of Eu3+ to Eu2+ in air was observed and confirmed by photoluminescence (PL) and electron spin resonance (ESR) spectra measurements. The PL spectra recorded under 370 nm excitation showed transitions of both 4f5d–4f Eu2+ and 4f–4f Eu3+. The total integral intensity of the PL spectra, monitored at 395 nm, decreased with increasing Mn2+ concentration due to quenching effect of Eu3+ by the Mn2+ levels. The temperature dependence of Eu2+ photoluminescence in a Sr9−xMnxEu(PO4)7 host was investigated. The conditions for the reduction of Eu3+ to Eu2+ in air were discussed.
Research Progress Regarding the Effect and Mechanism of Dietary Polyphenols in Liver Fibrosis
Authors: Chang Jiayin , Huang Congying , Li Siqi , Jiang Xiaolei , Chang Hong , Li Minhui
Published: December 2023

The development of liver fibrosis is a result of chronic liver injuries may progress to liver cirrhosis and liver cancer. In recent years, liver fibrosis has become a major global problem, and the incidence rate and mortality are increasing year by year. However, there are currently no approved treatments. Research on anti-liver-fibrosis drugs is a top priority. Dietary polyphenols, such as plant secondary metabolites, have remarkable abilities to reduce lipid metabolism, insulin resistance and inflammation, and are attracting more and more attention as potential drugs for the treatment of liver diseases. Gradually, dietary polyphenols are becoming the focus for providing an improvement in the treatment of liver fibrosis. The impact of dietary polyphenols on the composition of intestinal microbiota and the subsequent production of intestinal microbial metabolites has been observed to indirectly modulate signaling pathways in the liver, thereby exerting regulatory effects on liver disease. In conclusion, there is evidence that dietary polyphenols can be therapeutically useful in preventing and treating liver fibrosis, and we highlight new perspectives and key questions for future drug development.
Role of Acetic Acid and Nitric Oxide against Salinity and Lithium Stress in Canola (Brassica napus L.)
Authors: Dawood Mona F. A. , Tahjib-Ul-Arif Md. , Sohag Abdullah Al Mamun , Abdel Latef Arafat Abdel Hamed
Published: December 2023

In this study, canola (Brassica napus L.) seedlings were treated with individual and combined salinity and lithium (Li) stress, with and without acetic acid (AA) or nitric acid (NO), to investigate their possible roles against these stresses. Salinity intensified Li-induced damage, and the principal component analysis revealed that this was primarily driven by increased oxidative stress, deregulation of sodium and potassium accumulation, and an imbalance in tissue water content. However, pretreatment with AA and NO prompted growth, re-established sodium and potassium homeostasis, and enhanced the defense system against oxidative and nitrosative damage by triggering the antioxidant capacity. Combined stress negatively impacted phenylalanine ammonia lyase activity, affecting flavonoids, carotenoids, and anthocyanin levels, which were then restored in canola plants primed with AA and NO. Additionally, AA and NO helped to maintain osmotic balance by increasing trehalose and proline levels and upregulating signaling molecules such as hydrogen sulfide, γ-aminobutyric acid, and salicylic acid. Both AA and NO improved Li detoxification by increasing phytochelatins and metallothioneins, and reducing glutathione contents. Comparatively, AA exerted more effective protection against the detrimental effects of combined stress than NO. Our findings offer novel perspectives on the impacts of combining salt and Li stress.
Prior Infection by Colletotrichum spinaciae Lowers the Susceptibility to Infection by Powdery Mildew in Common Vetch
Authors: Li Faxi , Zhu Rui , Gao Feng , Duan Tingyu
Published: December 2023

Anthracnose (Colletotrichum spinaciae) and powdery mildew (Erysiphe pisi) are important diseases of common vetch (Vicia sativa) and often co-occur in the same plant. Here, we evaluate how C. spinaciae infection affects susceptibility to E. pisi, using sterilized and non-sterilized field soil to test the effect of resident soil microorganisms on the plant’s immune response. Plants infected with C. spinaciae (C+) exhibited a respective 41.77~44.16% and 72.37~75.27% lower incidence and severity of powdery mildew than uninfected (C−) plants. Moreover, the net photosynthetic rate, transpiration rate, and stomatal conductance were higher in the C− plants than in the C+ plants prior to infection with powdery mildew. These differences were not recorded following powdery mildew infection. Additionally, the activities of superoxide dismutase, polyphenol oxidase, and catalase were higher in the C+ plants than in the C− plants. The resident soil microbiota did not affect the plant responses to both pathogens. By uncovering the mechanistic basis of plant immune response, our study informs integrated disease management in a globally important forage crop.