bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Different Conditioners on Soil Microbial Community and Labile Organic Carbon Fractions under the Combined Application of Swine Manure and Straw in Black Soil
Authors: Zheng Shuang , Wu Jinggui , Sun Liming
Published: April 2024

The return of straw and manure to agricultural fields can impact soil organic carbon (SOC) and biological properties. However, there is a lack of research on how to use swine manure, maize straw, and various conditioners together affects soil bacterial and fungal populations. This study aimed to investigate six treatments, namely, only maize straw (S00), maize straw combined with swine manure (S0Z), maize straw combined with biochar and swine manure (SCZ), maize straw combined with boron slag and swine manure (SBZ), maize straw combined with biological agent and swine manure (SJZ), and maize straw combined with bio-organic fertilizer and swine manure (SFZ). The results showed that after the two-year return, all treatments increased the SOC content in 2023, which was 12.55–26.89% higher than S00. And the SCZ treatment significantly increased the soil organic carbon (SOC), dissolved organic carbon (DOC), easily oxidizable carbon (EOC), particulate organic carbon (POC), and microbial biomass carbon (MBC) content by 26.89%, 25.44%, 56.88%, 16.08%, and 43.54%, compared to S00. A redundancy analysis (RDA) showed that the continuous application of manure, maize straw, and conditioners has a positive impact on the diversity and abundance of soil microbial communities, enhancing the accumulation of soil carbon. Furthermore, our research revealed that soil fungi exhibited higher sensitivity in soil carbon composition following the addition of manure, straw, and conditioners to agricultural fields than bacteria. In conclusion, the addition of different conditioners to the fields is beneficial to biodiversity conservation from the perspective of achieving soil carbon storage and soil protection. Our findings suggested that the combination of maize straw, biochar, and swine manure was been proven to be the most effective treatment for increasing labile organic carbon fractions and enhancing the microbial community.
Single-Cell Transcriptome Sequencing Reveals Molecular Expression Differences and Marker Genes in Testes during the Sexual Maturation of Mongolian Horses
Authors: Liu Yuanyi , Du Ming , Li Xinyu , Zhang Lei , Zhao Bilig , Wang Na , Dugarjaviin Manglai
Published: April 2024

This study aimed to investigate differences in testicular tissue morphology, gene expression, and marker genes between sexually immature (1-year-old) and sexually mature (10-year-old) Mongolian horses. The purposes of our research were to provide insights into the reproductive physiology of male Mongolian horses and to identify potential markers for sexual maturity. The methods we applied included the transcriptomic profiling of testicular cells using single-cell sequencing techniques. Our results revealed significant differences in tissue morphology and gene expression patterns between the two age groups. Specifically, 25 cell clusters and 10 cell types were identified, including spermatogonial and somatic cells. Differential gene expression analysis highlighted distinct patterns related to cellular infrastructure in sexually immature horses and spermatogenesis in sexually mature horses. Marker genes specific to each stage were also identified, including APOA1, AMH, TAC3, INHA, SPARC, and SOX9 for the sexually immature stage, and PRM1, PRM2, LOC100051500, PRSS37, HMGB4, and H1-9 for the sexually mature stage. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of testicular development and spermatogenesis in Mongolian horses and have potential applications in equine reproductive biology and breeding programs. In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying sexual maturity in Mongolian horses.
Rumen Development of Tianhua Mutton Sheep Was Better than That of Gansu Alpine Fine Wool Sheep under Grazing Conditions
Authors: Li Dengpan , Liu Zhanjing , Duan Xinming , Wang Chunhui , Chen Zengping , Zhang Muyang , Li Xujie , Ma Youji
Published: April 2024

The purpose of this experiment was to investigate the differences in rumen tissue morphology, volatile fatty acid content, and rumen microflora between Tianhua mutton sheep and Gansu alpine fine wool sheep under the same grazing conditions. Twelve 30-day-old lambs were randomly selected from two different flocks in Duolong Village and grazed together for a period of 150 days. The rumen tissue was fixed with 4% paraformaldehyde and brought back to the laboratory for H&E staining, the volatile fatty acid content of the rumen contents was detected by gas chromatography, and the rumen flora structure was sequenced by full-length sequencing of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene using the PacBio sequencing platform. The acetic acid and total acid contents of the rumen contents of Tianhua mutton sheep were significantly higher than those of Gansu alpine fine wool sheep (p < 0.05). The rumen papillae height of Tianhua mutton sheep was significantly higher than that of Gansu alpine fine wool sheep (p < 0.05). The diversity and richness of the rumen flora of Tianhua mutton sheep were higher than those of Gansu alpine fine wool sheep, and Beta analysis showed that the microflora structure of the two fine wool sheep was significantly different. At the phylum level, Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes dominated the rumen flora of Tianhua mutton sheep and Gansu alpine fine wool sheep. At the genus level, the dominant strains were Christensenellaceae_R_7_group and Rikenellaceae_RC9_gut_group. LEfSe analysis showed that Prevotella was a highly abundant differential species in Tianhua mutton sheep and lachnospiraccac was a highly abundant differential species in Gansu alpine fine wool sheep. Finally, both the KEGG and COG databases showed that the enrichment of biometabolic pathways, such as replication and repair and translation, were significantly higher in Tianhua mutton sheep than in Gansu alpine fine wool sheep (p < 0.05). In general, there were some similarities between Tianhua mutton sheep and Gansu alpine fine wool sheep in the rumen tissue morphology, rumen fermentation ability, and rumen flora structure. However, Tianhua mutton sheep had a better performance in the rumen acetic acid content, rumen papillae height, and beneficial bacteria content. These differences may be one of the reasons why Tianhua mutton sheep are more suitable for growing in alpine pastoral areas than Gansu alpine fine wool sheep.
Gut Microbiota Analysis in Silkworms (Bombyx mori) Provides Insights into Identifying Key Bacterials for Inclusion in Artificial Diet Formulations
Authors: Xin Lei , Chen Yazhen , Rong Wantao , Qin Yingcan , Li Xiaodong , Guan Delong
Published: April 2024

The gut microbiome significantly influences the health and productivity of silkworms (Bombyx mori), the cornerstone of sericulture. With the increasing use of cost-effective artificial diets in sericulture, it is crucial to understand how these diets impact the silkworm gut microbiomes. Here we employed 16S rRNA sequencing to delineate the impact of three distinct dietary regimens on the silkworm gut microbiomes: exclusive mulberry leaf diet (SY), exclusive artificial feed diet (SL), and a sequential transition from artificial feed to mulberry leaves (ZS). Our results unveiled stark differences in microbial diversity across the groups, with the ZS group displaying an intermediary complexity. LefSe and random forest analyses identified Methylobacteriaceae, Microbacterium, and Rhodococcus as significantly enriched in the ZS group, suggesting their potential to facilitate silkworms’ adaptation to dietary transitions. Functional profiling revealed differential pathway regulation, indicating a metabolic reconfiguration in response to dietary modulations. Notably, the enrichment of Lactobacillus and Weissella in both the SL and ZS groups highlights their potential as probiotics in artificial diets. Our findings provide insights into the diet adaptation mechanisms of silkworm gut microbiota, paving the way for harnessing the intestinal bacteria to enhance silkworm health and silk production through targeted microbial interventions in sericulture practices.
First Insights on Resistance and Virulence Potential of Escherichia coli from Captive Birds of Prey in Portugal
Authors: Magalhães Rita , Abreu Raquel , Pereira Gonçalo , Cunha Eva , Silva Elisabete , Tavares Luís , Chambel Lélia , Oliveira Manuela
Published: April 2024

Captive birds of prey are often used for pest control in urban areas, while also participating in falconry exhibitions. Traveling across the country, these birds may represent a public health concern as they can host pathogenic and zoonotic agents and share the same environment as humans and synanthropic species. In this work, Escherichia coli from the cloacal samples of 27 captive birds of prey were characterized to determine their pathogenic potential. Isolates were clustered through ERIC-PCR fingerprinting, and the phylogenetic groups were assessed using a quadruplex PCR method. Their virulence and resistance profile against nine antibiotics were determined, as well as the isolates’ ability to produce extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs). The 84 original isolates were grouped into 33 clonal types, and it was observed that more than half of the studied isolates belonged to groups D and B2. Most isolates presented gelatinase activity (88%), almost half were able to produce biofilm (45%), and some were able to produce α-hemolysin (18%). The isolates presented high resistance rates towards piperacillin (42%), tetracycline (33%), and doxycycline (30%), and 6% of the isolates were able to produce ESBLs. The results confirm the importance of these birds as reservoirs of virulence and resistance determinants that can be disseminated between wildlife and humans, stressing the need for more studies focusing on these animals.
Camel Milk Resistome in Kuwait: Genotypic and Phenotypic Characterization
Authors: Rahmeh Rita , Akbar Abrar , Almutairi Batlah , Kishk Mohamed , Jordamovic Naida Babic , Al-Ateeqi Abdulaziz , Shajan Anisha , Al-Sherif Heba , Esposito Alfonso , Al-Momin Sabah , Piazza Silvano
Published: April 2024

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the major global health and economic threats. There is growing concern about the emergence of AMR in food and the possibility of transmission of microorganisms possessing antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) to the human gut microbiome. Shotgun sequencing and in vitro antimicrobial susceptibility testing were used in this study to provide a detailed characterization of the antibiotic resistance profile of bacteria and their ARGs in dromedary camel milk. Eight pooled camel milk samples, representative of multiple camels distributed in the Kuwait desert, were collected from retail stores and analyzed. The genotypic analysis showed the presence of ARGs that mediate resistance to 18 classes of antibiotics in camel milk, with the highest resistance to fluoroquinolones (12.48%) and disinfecting agents and antiseptics (9%). Furthermore, the results pointed out the possible transmission of the ARGs to other bacteria through mobile genetic elements. The in vitro antimicrobial susceptibility testing indicated that 80% of the isolates were resistant to different classes of antibiotics, with the highest resistance observed against three antibiotic classes: penicillin, tetracyclines, and carbapenems. Multidrug-resistant pathogens including Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, and Enterobacter hormaechei were also revealed. These findings emphasize the human health risks related to the handling and consumption of raw camel milk and highlight the necessity of improving the hygienic practices of farms and retail stores to control the prevalence of ARGs and their transmission.
Ginger Polyphenols Reverse Molecular Signature of Amygdala Neuroimmune Signaling and Modulate Microbiome in Male Rats with Neuropathic Pain: Evidence for Microbiota–Gut–Brain Axis
Authors: Shen Chwan-Li , Santos Julianna Maria , Elmassry Moamen M. , Bhakta Viren , Driver Zarek , Ji Guangchen , Yakhnitsa Vadim , Kiritoshi Takaki , Lovett Jacob , Hamood Abdul Naji , Sang Shengmin , Neugebauer Volker
Published: April 2024

Emerging evidence shows that the gut microbiota plays an important role in neuropathic pain (NP) via the gut–brain axis. Male rats were divided into sham, spinal nerve ligation (SNL), SNL + 200 mg GEG/kg BW (GEG200), and SNL + 600 mg GEG/kg BW (GEG600) for 5 weeks. The dosages of 200 and 600 mg GEG/kg BW for rats correspond to 45 g and 135 g raw ginger for human daily consumption, respectively. Both GEG groups mitigated SNL-induced NP behavior. GEG-supplemented animals had a decreased abundance of Rikenella, Muribaculaceae, Clostridia UCG-014, Mucispirillum schaedleri, RF39, Acetatifactor, and Clostridia UCG-009, while they had an increased abundance of Flavonifactor, Hungatella, Anaerofustis stercorihominis, and Clostridium innocuum group. Relative to sham rats, Fos and Gadd45g genes were upregulated, while Igf1, Ccl2, Hadc2, Rtn4rl1, Nfkb2, Gpr84, Pik3cg, and Abcc8 genes were downregulated in SNL rats. Compared to the SNL group, the GEG200 group and GEG600 group had increases/decreases in 16 (10/6) genes and 11 (1/10) genes, respectively. GEG downregulated Fos and Gadd45g genes and upregulated Hdac2 genes in the amygdala. In summary, GEG alleviates NP by modulating the gut microbiome and reversing a molecular neuroimmune signature.
Modulating Nitric Oxide: Implications for Cytotoxicity and Cytoprotection
Authors: Belenichev Igor , Popazova Olena , Bukhtiyarova Nina , Savchenko Dmytro , Oksenych Valentyn , Kamyshnyi Oleksandr
Published: April 2024

Despite the significant progress in the fields of biology, physiology, molecular medicine, and pharmacology; the designation of the properties of nitrogen monoxide in the regulation of life-supporting functions of the organism; and numerous works devoted to this molecule, there are still many open questions in this field. It is widely accepted that nitric oxide (•NO) is a unique molecule that, despite its extremely simple structure, has a wide range of functions in the body, including the cardiovascular system, the central nervous system (CNS), reproduction, the endocrine system, respiration, digestion, etc. Here, we systematize the properties of •NO, contributing in conditions of physiological norms, as well as in various pathological processes, to the mechanisms of cytoprotection and cytodestruction. Current experimental and clinical studies are contradictory in describing the role of •NO in the pathogenesis of many diseases of the cardiovascular system and CNS. We describe the mechanisms of cytoprotective action of •NO associated with the regulation of the expression of antiapoptotic and chaperone proteins and the regulation of mitochondrial function. The most prominent mechanisms of cytodestruction—the initiation of nitrosative and oxidative stresses, the production of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, and participation in apoptosis and mitosis. The role of •NO in the formation of endothelial and mitochondrial dysfunction is also considered. Moreover, we focus on the various ways of pharmacological modulation in the nitroxidergic system that allow for a decrease in the cytodestructive mechanisms of •NO and increase cytoprotective ones.
Mean-Field Stackelberg Game-Based Security Defense and Resource Optimization in Edge Computing
Authors: Miao Li , Li Shuai , Wu Xiangjuan , Liu Bingjie
Published: April 2024

Edge computing brings computation and storage resources to the edge of the mobile network to solve the problems of low latency and high real-time demand. However, edge computing is more vulnerable to malicious attacks due to its open and dynamic environments. In this article, we investigate security defense strategies in edge computing systems, focusing on scenarios with one attacker and multiple defenders to determine optimal defense strategies with minimal resource allocation. Firstly, we formulate the interactions between the defenders and the attackers as the mean-field Stackelberg game model, where the state and the objective functions of the defenders are coupled through the mean-field term, and are strongly influenced by the strategy of the attacker. Then, we analyze the local optimal strategies of the defenders given an arbitrary strategy of the attackers. We demonstrate the Nash equilibrium and the mean-field equilibrium for both the defenders and the attackers. Finally, simulation analysis will illustrate the dynamic evolution of the defense strategy of the defenders and the trajectory of the attackers based on the proposed Stackelberg game model.
Sensory Factors Influence Dynamic and Static Bi-Manual Finger Grip Strength in a Real-World Task Context
Authors: Dresp-Langley Birgitta , Liu Rongrong , de Mathelin Michel
Published: April 2024

Individual grip strength provides a functional window into somatosensory processes and their effects on motor behaviour in healthy, impaired, and ageing individuals. Variations in grip strength during hand–tool interaction are therefore exploited in a variety of experimental tasks to study the effects of pathology or ageing-related changes on sensory, motor, and cognitive ability. However, many different factors may influence individual grip strength systematically in a given task context without being explicitly identified and controlled for. Grip strength may vary as a function of the location of the measurement device (sensor) on the fingers/hand, the shape, weight and size of object(s) being gripped, the type of grip investigated (static versus dynamic grip), and the hand (dominant versus non-dominant) used for gripping. This study tests for additional factors such as sight, sound, and interactions with/between any of the other factors in a complex task context. A wearable biosensor system, designed for measuring grip strength variations in operators gripping cylindrical objects bi-manually, was used. Grip force signals were recorded from all sensors of the wearable (glove) system, including three directly task-relevant sensors for bi-manually gripping cylindrical objects with the dominant and non-dominant hands. Five young male participants were tested for the effects of sound, movement, and sight on grip strength. The participants had to pick up two cylindrical objects of identical size and weight, then hold them still (static grip) or move them upwards and downwards (dynamic grip) for ten seconds while listening to soft or hard music, with their eyes open or blindfolded. Significant effects of sensor location, hand, movement, sight, and sound on bi-manual grip strength were found. Stronger grip force signals were produced by task-relevant sensors in the dominant hand when moving the cylindrical handles (dynamic grip) in comparison with the static grip condition, depending, as expected, on whether grip signals were measured from the dominant or the non-dominant hand. Significantly weaker grip strength was produced blindfolded (sight condition), and grips were significantly stronger with exposure to harder music (sound factor). It is concluded that grip strength is significantly influenced by sensory factors and interactions between the other factors tested for, pointing towards the need for identifying and systematically controlling such potential sources of variation in complex study task contexts.
Robust Airport Surface Object Detection Based on Graph Neural Network
Authors: Tang Wenyi , Li Hongjue
Published: April 2024

Accurate and robust object detection is of critical importance in airport surface surveillance to ensure the security of air transportation systems. Owing to the constraints imposed by a relatively fixed receptive field, existing airport surface detection methods have not yet achieved substantial advancements in accuracy. Furthermore, these methods are vulnerable to adversarial attacks with carefully crafted adversarial inputs. To address these challenges, we propose the Vision GNN-Edge (ViGE) block, an enhanced block derived from the Vision GNN (ViG). ViGE introduces the receptive field in pixel space and represents the spatial relation between pixels directly. Moreover, we implement an adversarial training strategy with augmented training samples generated by adversarial perturbation. Empirical evaluations on the public remote sensing dataset LEVIR and a manually collected airport surface dataset show that: 1. our proposed method surpasses the original model in precision and robustness; 2. defining the receptive field in pixel space performs better than that on representation space.
Drone-Assisted Particulate Matter Measurement in Air Monitoring: A Patent Review
Authors: Altamira-Colado Eladio , Cuevas-González Daniel , Reyna Marco A. , García-Vázquez Juan Pablo , Avitia Roberto L. , Osornio-Vargas Alvaro R.
Published: April 2024

Air pollution is caused by the presence of polluting elements. Ozone (O3), carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and particulate matter (PM) are the most controlled gasses because they can be released into the atmosphere naturally or as a result of human activity, which affects air quality and causes disease and premature death in exposed people. Depending on the substance being measured, ambient air monitors have different types of air quality sensors. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in designing drones as mobile sensors for monitoring air pollution. Therefore, the objective of this paper is to provide a comprehensive patent review to gain insight into the proprietary technologies currently used in drones used to monitor outdoor air pollution. Patent searches were conducted using three different patent search engines: Google Patents, WIPO’s Patentscope, and the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). The analysis of each patent consists of extracting data that supply information regarding the type of drone, sensor, or equipment for measuring PM, the lack or presence of a cyclone separator, and the ability to process the turbulence generated by the drone’s propellers. A total of 1473 patent documents were retrieved using the search engine. However, only 13 met the inclusion criteria, including patent documents reporting drone designs for outdoor air pollution monitoring. Therefore, was found that most patents fall under class G01N (measurement; testing) according to the International Patents Classification, where the most common sensors and devices are infrared or visible light cameras, cleaning devices, and GPS tracking devices. The most common tasks performed by drones are air pollution monitoring, assessment, and control. These categories cover different aspects of the air pollution management cycle and are essential to effectively address this environmental problem.
Numerical Investigation of Some Reductions for the Gatenby–Gawlinski Model
Authors: Mascia Corrado , Moschetta Pierfrancesco , Simeoni Chiara
Published: April 2024

Two (consecutive) reductions of the complete Gatenby–Gawlinski model for cancer invasion are proposed in order to investigate the mathematical framework, mainly from a computational perspective. After a brief overview of the full model, we proceed by examining the case of a two-equations-based and one-equation-based reduction, both obtained by means of a quasi-steady-state assumption. We focus on invasion fronts, exploiting a numerical strategy based on a finite volume approximation, and perform corresponding computational simulations to study the sharpness/smoothness of the traveling waves. Then, we employ a space-averaged wave speed estimate—referred to as the LeVeque–Yee formula—to quantitatively approach the propagation phenomenon. Concerning the one-equation-based model, we propose a scalar degenerate reaction-diffusion equation, which proves to be effective in order to qualitatively recover the typical trends arising from the Gatenby–Gawlinski model. Finally, we carry out some numerical tests in a specific case where the analytical solution is available.
A Class of Multi-Component Non-Isospectral TD Hierarchies and Their Bi-Hamiltonian Structures
Authors: Yu Jianduo , Wang Haifeng
Published: April 2024

By using the classical Lie algebra, the stationary zero curvature equation, and the Lenard recursion equations, we obtain the non-isospectral TD hierarchy. Two kinds of expanding higher-dimensional Lie algebras are presented by extending the classical Lie algebra. By solving the expanded non-isospectral zero curvature equations, the multi-component non-isospectral TD hierarchies are derived. The Hamiltonian structure for one of them is obtained by using the trace identity.
Analytic Solutions for Hilfer Type Fractional Langevin Equations with Variable Coefficients in a Weighted Space
Authors: Li Fang , Yang Ling , Wang Huiwen
Published: April 2024

In this work, analytic solutions of initial value problems for fractional Langevin equations involving Hilfer fractional derivatives and variable coefficients are studied. Firstly, the equivalence of an initial value problem to an integral equation is proved. Secondly, the existence and uniqueness of solutions for the above initial value problem are obtained without a contractive assumption. Finally, a formula of explicit solutions for the proposed problem is derived. By using similar arguments, corresponding conclusions for the case involving Riemann–Liouville fractional derivatives and variable coefficients are obtained. Moreover, the nonlinear case is discussed. Two examples are provided to illustrate theoretical results.
Potential Role of Pig UCP3 in Modulating Adipocyte Browning via the Beta-Adrenergic Receptor Signaling Pathway
Authors: Kim Sangwoo , Yazawa Takashi , Koide Akari , Yoneda Erina , Aoki Risa , Okazaki Tatsuki , Tomita Kisaki , Watanabe Hiroyuki , Muroi Yoshikage , Testuka Masafumi , Muranishi Yuki
Published: April 2024

Adipose tissue plays an important role in regulating body temperature and metabolism, with white adipocytes serving as storage units for energy. Recent research focused on the browning of white adipocytes (beige adipocytes), causing thermogenesis and lipolysis. The process of browning is linked to the activation of uncoupling protein (UCP) expression, which can be mediated by the β3 adrenergic receptor pathway. Transcriptional factors, such as peroxisome proliferator activated receptor γ (PPARγ) and PPARγ coactivator 1 alpha, play vital roles in cell fate determination for fat cells. Beige adipocytes have metabolic therapeutic potential to combat diseases such as obesity, diabetes mellitus, and dyslipidemia, owing to their significant impact on metabolic functions. However, the molecular mechanisms that cause the induction of browning are unclear. Therefore, research using animal models and primary culture is essential to provide an understanding of browning for further application in human metabolic studies. Pigs have physiological similarities to humans; hence, they are valuable models for research on adipose tissue. This study demonstrates the browning potential of pig white adipocytes through primary culture experiments. The results show that upregulation of UCP3 gene expression and fragmentation of lipid droplets into smaller particles occur due to isoproterenol stimulation, which activates beta-adrenergic receptor signaling. Furthermore, PPARγ and PGC-1α were found to activate the UCP3 promoter region, similar to that of UCP1. These findings suggest that pigs undergo metabolic changes that induce browning in white adipocytes, providing a promising approach for metabolic research with potential implications for human health. This study offers valuable insights into the mechanism of adipocyte browning using pig primary culture that can enhance our understanding of human metabolism, leading to cures for commonly occurring diseases.
Is Virtual Reality Orientation Therapy Useful to Optimize Cognitive and Behavioral Functioning Following Severe Acquired Brain Injury? An Exploratory Study
Authors: De Luca Rosaria , Calderone Andrea , Gangemi Antonio , Rifici Carmela , Bonanno Mirjam , Maggio Maria Grazia , Cappadona Irene , Veneziani Isabella , Ielo Augusto , Corallo Francesco , Quartarone Angelo , Cardile Davide , Calabrò Rocco Salvatore
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Severe acquired brain injury (SABI) is a leading cause of death and disability, and it is defined as a brain injury that occurs after birth due to traumatic or non-traumatic causes. Reality orientation therapy (ROT) uses repeated time–place–person orientation and meaningful stimuli to develop a better understanding of the environment and has great potential as an effective strategy to improve cognitive and behavioral functioning. Objective: This study aims to investigate the feasibility and potential effects of virtual reality orientation therapy (VR-rot) on optimizing cognitive and behavioral functioning and depressive symptoms post-SABI. Method: Forty patients with SABI were enrolled from October 2022 to December 2023 and divided into two groups: the experimental group (EG, n = 20) received VR_rot, while the control group (CG, n = 20) received standard ROT (S_rot). All patients were evaluated with a psychometric battery, including the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HRS-D), administered before (T0) and after the end (T1) of rehabilitation. Results: Within-group comparisons indicated a statistically significant change in MMSE scores from T0 to T1 in the EG and CG, with the EG showing a greater improvement than the CG. Regarding HRS-D scores, the EG showed a statistically significant change. VR-ROT could be a valuable tool for improving cognitive–behavioral functioning in SABI patients. Conclusions: The VRRS can help reduce depressive symptoms and improve the reality orientation deficit caused by traumatic brain injury and stroke on brain tissue. This study highlights the benefits of virtual reality.
Interactions between Cytokines and the Pathogenesis of Prion Diseases: Insights and Implications
Authors: Assis-de-Lemos Gabriela , Moura-do-Nascimento Rayanne , Amaral-do-Nascimento Manuela , Miceli Ana C. , Vieira Tuane C. R. G.
Published: April 2024

Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathies (TSEs), including prion diseases such as Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (Mad Cow Disease) and variant Creutzfeldt–Jakob Disease, pose unique challenges to the scientific and medical communities due to their infectious nature, neurodegenerative effects, and the absence of a cure. Central to the progression of TSEs is the conversion of the normal cellular prion protein (PrPC) into its infectious scrapie form (PrPSc), leading to neurodegeneration through a complex interplay involving the immune system. This review elucidates the current understanding of the immune response in prion diseases, emphasizing the dual role of the immune system in both propagating and mitigating the disease through mechanisms such as glial activation, cytokine release, and blood–brain barrier dynamics. We highlight the differential cytokine profiles associated with various prion strains and stages of disease, pointing towards the potential for cytokines as biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Immunomodulatory strategies are discussed as promising avenues for mitigating neuroinflammation and delaying disease progression. This comprehensive examination of the immune response in TSEs not only advances our understanding of these enigmatic diseases but also sheds light on broader neuroinflammatory processes, offering hope for future therapeutic interventions.
Geopolymeric Composites Containing Industrial Waste Reinforced with Arundo donax Fibers
Authors: Manzi Stefania , Molari Luisa , Bignozzi Maria Chiara , Masi Giulia , Saccani Andrea
Published: April 2024

Traditional Portland cement-based composites have a great environmental impact. Alkali-activated binders can offer an alternative, particularly if they can be obtained even partially from waste. Two residuals derived from the finishing steps of the traditional ceramic industry have been used as possible polymerizable sources mixed with metakaolin. Moreover, to contrast the low dimensional stability of alkali-activated materials and their mechanical brittleness, natural fibers derived from the Arundo donax plant have been added to the mortars. The use of renewable natural fibers instead of synthetic ones can contribute a further environmental advantage. The fresh (consistency) and cured (mechanical) properties of composite materials prepared with residuals and metakaolin were analyzed here. For comparison’s sake, a reference set of composite materials not loaded with fibers but with an identical binder/sand and liquid/binder ratio was cast. A room-temperature curing condition was selected that, although inadequate to promote the short-time reactivity of the wastes, has a minimal energy requirement and allows on-site applications. A small-scale decrease in the properties in the compression mode tests was observed in the waste-modified mortars, while the Arundo addition improved their flexural strength and dimensional stability.
Research on Complex Network Models and Characteristics of Building Material Enterprises Based on Competitive Relationships
Authors: Zhao Likun , Yuan Hui , An Mengqian , Bao Xiaoqing
Published: April 2024

Based on complex network theory, this paper establishes a Boolean competitive relationship network model and a weighted competitive relationship network model for building material enterprises based on big data and performs empirical analyses with construction prefabricated component (PC) enterprises in the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei region as research samples. Results show the competitive relationship network of PC enterprises in the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei region is characterised by the development of a small-world network, and its cumulative degree and out-degree (in-degree) intensity distributions are single-scale networks with fast-decaying tails. The network has strong network clustering and assortativity, and it can truly reflect the competitive status and dynamics of the enterprises.
A Comprehensive Review on Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma: An Update in 2023
Authors: Ghoreifi Alireza , Djaladat Hooman
Published: April 2024

It is our pleasure to serve as the guest editors for the Cancers journal for this Special Issue, titled “Comprehensive Review on Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma: An Update in 2023” [...]
A Multicenter International Retrospective Investigation Assessing the Prognostic Role of Inflammation-Based Scores (Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte, Lymphocyte-to-Monocyte, and Platelet-to-Lymphocyte Ratios) in Patients with Intermediate-Stage Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) Undergoing Chemoembolizations of the Liver
Authors: Minici Roberto , Venturini Massimo , Guzzardi Giuseppe , Fontana Federico , Coppola Andrea , Piacentino Filippo , Torre Federico , Spinetta Marco , Maglio Pietro , Guerriero Pasquale , Ammendola Michele ,   MGJR Research Team, Brunese Luca , Laganà Domenico
Published: April 2024

Background: The utilization of inflammation-based scores, such as the Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR), Lymphocyte-to-Monocyte Ratio (LMR), and Platelet-to-Lymphocyte Ratio (PLR), has garnered attention for their potential as prognostic indicators in various cancers. However, their predictive role in patients with intermediate-stage HCC undergoing transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) remains an area that requires further investigation, as early recognition of TACE refractoriness holds the potential to guide tailored therapeutic interventions. Methods: This multicenter international retrospective study analyzed data from patients with intermediate-stage HCC undergoing TACE between 2018 and 2024. Inflammation-based scores (NLR, LMR, PLR) were assessed preoperatively to predict treatment outcomes. Results: Two hundred and fourteen patients were enrolled. Preoperative LMR showed the largest area under the curve for the prediction of 6-months PFS, based on the ROC curve analysis. Both high LMR (≥2.24) and low NLR (<4.72) were associated with improved objective response rates and 6-month progression-free survival. Lymphocyte count emerged as a strong predictor of treatment response in both simple (p < 0.001) and multiple (p < 0.001) logistic regression analyses. Conclusions: This study highlights the prognostic value of inflammation-based scores, particularly LMR and NLR, in predicting the treatment response and short-term outcomes of patients with intermediate-stage HCC undergoing TACE. Future investigations should focus on validating these scores’ clinical applicability and assessing their impact on long-term patient survival and therapeutic decision-making.
Effects of Short-Term Lenvatinib Administration Prior to Transarterial Chemoembolization for Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Tachiiri Tetsuya , Minamiguchi Kiyoyuki , Taiji Ryosuke , Sato Takeshi , Toyoda Shohei , Matsumoto Takeshi , Chanoki Yuto , Kunichika Hideki , Yamauchi Satoshi , Shimizu Sho , Nishiofuku Hideyuki , Marugami Nagaaki , Tsuji Yuki , Namisaki Tadashi , Yoshiji Hitoshi , Tanaka Toshihiro
Published: April 2024

Aim: Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) combined with lenvatinib, employing a 4-day lenvatinib administration followed by TACE without an interval (short-term LEN-TACE), was performed for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The aim was to assess tumor hemodynamics following the 4-day lenvatinib and to evaluate the treatment outcomes after the short-term LEN-TACE. Methods: 25 unresectable HCC patients received this combined therapy. Lenvatinib (4–12 mg) was administrated for 4 days prior to TACE. Perfusion CT scans were obtained before and after the lenvatinib administration. Either cTACE (76%) or DEB-TACE (24%) were performed. Results: intra-tumor blood flow significantly decreased after the 4-day lenvatinib (p < 0.05). The TACE procedure was successful with no severe adverse events in all patients. The overall complete response (CR) rate was 75% (cTACE 84%, DEB-TACE 40%). The lipiodol-washout ratio between 1 week and 4 months after cTACE correlated with the arterial flow reduction ratio by lenvatinib prior to TACE (r = −0.55). The 12-month progression-free survival (PFS) rate was 75.0%. Conclusions: The short-term LEN-TACE is feasible and safe, demonstrating promising outcomes with a high CR ratio, contributing to lipiodol retention in the tumor after cTACE, and extended PFS. To confirm the advantages of this treatment protocol, a prospective clinical trial is mandatory.
The Use of Glucagon-like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Does Not Increase the Risk of Pancreatic Cancer: A U.S.-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Ayoub Mark , Faris Carol , Juranovic Tajana , Chela Harleen , Daglilar Ebubekir
Published: April 2024

Background: GLP-1 RAs are widely used for T2DM treatment due to their cardiorenal and metabolic benefits. This study examines the risk of pancreatic cancer with GLP-1 RA use in patients with T2DM. Methods: We analyzed TriNetX’s deidentified research database using the U.S. Collaborative Network comprising 62 healthcare organizations across the U.S.A. Patients with T2DM were split into two cohorts: one receiving GLP-1 RAs, and one not receiving GLP-1 RAs. We excluded patients with known risk factors for pancreatic cancer, including pancreatic cysts, a personal or family history of BRCA1, BRCA2, CDKN2A, KRAS, MEN1, MLH1, MSH2, NOTCH1, PALB2, PMS2, and PRSS1S genes, family history of pancreatic cancer, and VHL syndrome. Using a 1:1 propensity score-matching model based on baseline characteristics and comorbidities, we created comparable cohorts. We then compared the rate of pancreatic cancer between the two cohorts at a 7-year interval. Results: Out of 7,146,015 identified patients with T2DM, 10.3% were on a GLP-1 RA and 89.7% were not. Post-PSM, 721,110 patients were in each group. Patients on GLP-1 RAs had a 0.1% risk compared to a 0.2% risk of pancreatic cancer in the 7-year timeframe. Conclusion: The use of GLP-1 RAs in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) does not appear to substantially elevate the risk of pancreatic cancer; in fact, it may potentially exert a protective effect.
Enhancing Oxygen Evolution Reaction with Two-Dimensional Nickel Oxide on Au (111)
Authors: Zhang Handing , Zhang Haoyu , Wang Ruijing , Lv Jiayu , Huang Wugen , Guo Chenyan , Yang Fan
Published: April 2024

The nature of the active sites of transition metal oxides during the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) has attracted much attention. Herein, we constructed well-defined nickel oxide/Au (111) model catalysts to study the relationship between the structures and their OER activity using scanning tunneling microscopy (STM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), electrochemical measurements, and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The deposited nickel oxides on Au (111) were found to exhibit a two-dimensional (2D)/three-dimensional (3D) structure by regulating the annealing temperature. Combining STM, XPS and electrochemical measurements, our results demonstrated an optimal OER reactivity could be achieved for NiOx with a 2D structure on Au and provided a morphological description of the active phase during electrocatalysis.
Activin A, a Novel Chemokine, Induces Mouse NK Cell Migration via AKT and Calcium Signaling
Authors: Wang Yunfeng , Liu Zhonghui , Qi Yan , Wu Jiandong , Liu Boyang , Cui Xueling
Published: April 2024

Natural killer (NK) cells can migrate quickly to the tumor site to exert cytotoxic effects on tumors, and some chemokines, including CXCL8, CXCL10 or and CXCL12, can regulate the migration of NK cells. Activin A, a member of the transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) superfamily, is highly expressed in tumor tissues and involved in tumor development and immune cell activation. In this study, we focus on the effects of activin A on NK cell migration. In vitro, activin A induced NK cell migration and invasion, promoted cell polarization and inhibited cell adhesion. Moreover, activin A increased Ca2+, p-SMAD3 and p-AKT levels in NK cells. An AKT inhibitor and Ca2+ chelator partially blocked activin A-induced NK cell migration. In vivo, exogenous activin A increased tumor-infiltrating NK cells in NS-1 cell solid tumors and inhibited tumor growth, and blocking endogenous activin A with anti-activin A antibody reduced tumor-infiltrating NK cells in 4T-1 cell solid tumors. These results suggest that activin A induces NK cell migration through AKT signaling and calcium signaling and may enhance the antitumor effect of NK cells by increasing tumor-infiltrating NK cells.
Optimizing Embryo Collection for Application of CRISPR/Cas9 System and Generation of Fukutin Knockout Rat Using This Method
Authors: Seol Dong-Won , Park Byoung-Jin , Koo Deog-Bon , Kim Ji-Su , Jeon Yong-Hyun , Lee Jae-Eon , Park Joon-Suk , Jang Hoon , Wee Gabbine
Published: April 2024

Rat animal models are widely used owing to their relatively superior cognitive abilities and higher similarity compared with mouse models to human physiological characteristics. However, their use is limited because of difficulties in establishing embryonic stem cells and performing genetic modifications, and insufficient embryological research. In this study, we established optimal superovulation and fertilized–egg transfer conditions, including optimal hormone injection concentration (≥150 IU/kg of PMSG and hCG) and culture medium (mR1ECM), to obtain high-quality zygotes and establish in vitro fertilization conditions for rats. Next, sgRNA with optimal targeting activity was selected by performing PCR analysis and the T7E1 assay, and the CRISPR/Cas9 system was used to construct a rat model for muscular dystrophy by inducing a deficiency in the fukutin gene without any off-target effect detected. The production of fukutin knockout rats was phenotypically confirmed by observing a drop-in body weight to one-third of that of the control group. In summary, we succeeded in constructing the first muscular dystrophy disease rat model using the CRISPR/CAS9 system for increasing future prospects of producing various animal disease models and encouraging disease research using rats.
Açaí (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) Seed Oil and Its Nanoemulsion: Chemical Characterisation, Toxicity Evaluation, Antioxidant and Anticancer Activities
Authors: Borges Katia Regina Assunção , Wolff Lais Araújo Souza , da Silva Marcos Antonio Custódio Neto , de Carvalho Silva Allysson Kayron , Campos Carmem Duarte Lima , Souza Franscristhiany Silva , Teles Amanda Mara , Vale André Álvares Marques , Pascoa Henrique , Lima Eliana Martins , de Sousa Eduardo Martins , Nunes Ana Clara Silva , Gil da Costa Rui M. , Faustino-Rocha Ana Isabel , Cardoso Carvalho Rafael , Nascimento Maria do Desterro Soares Brandão
Published: April 2024

This study explores a nanoemulsion formulated with açaí seed oil, known for its rich fatty acid composition and diverse biological activities. This study aimed to characterise a nanoemulsion formulated with açaí seed oil and explore its cytotoxic effects on HeLa and SiHa cervical cancer cell lines, alongside assessing its antioxidant and toxicity properties both in vitro and in vivo. Extracted from fruits sourced in Brazil, the oil underwent thorough chemical characterization using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. The resulting nanoemulsion was prepared and evaluated for stability, particle size, and antioxidant properties. The nanoemulsion exhibited translucency, fluidity, and stability post centrifugation and temperature tests, with a droplet size of 238.37, PDI -9.59, pH 7, and turbidity 0.267. In vitro assessments on cervical cancer cell lines revealed antitumour effects, including inhibition of cell proliferation, migration, and colony formation. Toxicity tests conducted in cell cultures and female Swiss mice demonstrated no adverse effects of both açaí seed oil and nanoemulsion. Overall, açaí seed oil, particularly when formulated into a nanoemulsion, presents potential for cancer treatment due to its bioactive properties and safety profile.
A Novel Hybrid Vision Transformer CNN for COVID-19 Detection from ECG Images
Authors: Naidji Mohamed Rami , Elberrichi Zakaria
Published: April 2024

The emergence of the novel coronavirus in Wuhan, China since 2019, has put the world in an exotic state of emergency and affected millions of lives. It is five times more deadly than Influenza and causes significant morbidity and mortality. COVID-19 mainly affects the pulmonary system leading to respiratory disorders. However, earlier studies indicated that COVID-19 infection may cause cardiovascular diseases, which can be detected using an electrocardiogram (ECG). This work introduces an advanced deep learning architecture for the automatic detection of COVID-19 and heart diseases from ECG images. In particular, a hybrid combination of the EfficientNet-B0 CNN model and Vision Transformer is adopted in the proposed architecture. To our knowledge, this study is the first research endeavor to investigate the potential of the vision transformer model to identify COVID-19 in ECG data. We carry out two classification schemes, a binary classification to identify COVID-19 cases, and a multi-class classification, to differentiate COVID-19 cases from normal cases and other cardiovascular diseases. The proposed method surpasses existing state-of-the-art approaches, demonstrating an accuracy of 100% and 95.10% for binary and multiclass levels, respectively. These results prove that artificial intelligence can potentially be used to detect cardiovascular anomalies caused by COVID-19, which may help clinicians overcome the limitations of traditional diagnosis.