bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early Socialization Triggered ROS-Mediated Activation of Canonical NF-κB Pathway Leading to Inflammation of Spleen in Suckling Piglets
Authors: Yang Yue , Wu Mengyao , Zhang Xiaolong , Zhao Yunlong , Zhou Sitong , Ji Wenbo , Liu Honggui
Published: June 2024

Early socialization during lactation is advocated as a feeding strategy to reduce the weaning stress of piglets. However, early socialization has often been accompanied by more frequent aggression between individuals, and its effect on the immune system of piglets has yet to be evaluated. In this study, 89 piglets were raised separately under conventional feeding and early socialization environments. Based on differences in the aggressive behavior of the piglets in different environments during lactation, we further investigated the effects of early socialization on oxidative stress in the spleen of the piglets and the inflammatory responses involved in the canonical nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) signaling pathway. The results revealed that early socialization led to a higher aggression level between individuals (p < 0.01), increased malondialdehyde (MDA) and H2O2 levels and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) activity, and inhibited glutathione (GSH) levels and the activities of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) in the piglet spleens (p < 0.05). The mRNA expression levels of the protein kinase A (PKA), inhibitor of kappa B kinase-α (IKK-α), inhibitor of kappa B kinase-β (IKK-β), inhibitor of NF-κB-α (IκB-α), NF-κB(p65), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2), iNOS, and heat shock protein (HSP) genes were significantly up-regulated, as well as the protein levels of P-p65, IKK-β, P-IkB-α, pro-IL-1β, and TNF-α. In summary, early socialization caused oxidative stress and inflammatory responses in the spleen of the piglets by inducing ROS production and the activation of the canonical NF-κB pathway. Our study revealed that early socialization significantly increased the ROS level in the piglet spleens and activated the canonical NF-κB signaling pathway, which induced a high expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and COX2) and HSP genes regulated by NF-κB signaling, leading to oxidative stress and the inflammatory response.
Correction: Saini et al. Inoculation with Mycorrhizal Fungi and Other Microbes to Improve the Morpho-Physiological and Floral Traits of Gazania rigens (L.) Gaertn. Agriculture 2019, 9, 51
Authors: Saini Ishan , Aggarwal Ashok , Kaushik Prashant
Published: June 2024

The Agriculture Editorial Office wishes to make the following changes to the author’s paper [...]
Current Status of Haploidization in Cool-Season Grain Legume Crop Species
Authors: Skrzypkowski Wiktor , Kiełkowska Agnieszka
Published: June 2024

Doubled haploid technology is, so far, the fastest route to induce a true homozygous state in plants. True homozygous plants are particularly important for breeders, as they can facilitate hybrid breeding and are useful in fixing traits in a breeding line. Fabaceae species are of great importance in food and feed production; however, they are far behind other families with respect to the development of effective haploidization protocols. Here, we present the most recent status of research on haploidization protocols in cool-season grain legume crops, including dry peas, chickpeas, faba beans, lentils, lupines, and grass peas. The first four species are primarily for human consumption; the latter are utilized as forage. All the mentioned species have been subject to haploidization trials; however, repeatable protocols, including the regeneration of confirmed haploid or doubled haploid plants, have not been elaborated. Research in field pea, chickpea, grass pea, and lupine is promising, with the reported regeneration of microspore-derived embryos in all four species. Repeatable plant regeneration has been reported only in field peas and chickpeas. The most recent achievements on haploidization through male and female gametophytes in faba bean are also presented. The key factors for the effective stimulation of haploid cell development in cool-season legumes are reviewed, providing a useful basis for future efforts toward haploidization in this group.
Case Study on the Effects of Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose and Biostimulants on Physiological and Photosynthetic Characteristics, Yield, and Quality of Apples
Authors: Zheng Ming , Mu Weiyi , Wang Quanjiu , Zhang Jianghui , Bai Yungang , Sun Yan , Lu Zhenlin , Wei Xuesong
Published: June 2024

The problem of poor water and fertilizer retention in sandy soils can lead to physiological growth restriction and yield and quality decline in apples. Sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) formula can improve the soil structure and increase the water- and fertilizer-holding capacity of the soil, and Biogenic Stimulant (BS) can improve the drought stress resistance of crops and promote the physiological growth of crops. Considering that CMC and BS may improve the physiological characteristics of sandy soil apples, in this study, CMC was coupled with BS in sandy apples, and the effects on the physiological characteristics, yield, and quality of apples were systematically investigated. The results showed that CMC and BS could increase leaf N, P, and K content, with the greatest increases seen in the Y2C2 treatment (9.28, 0.61, and 0.56 g kg−1, respectively) compared with the CK treatment. The SPAD values of leaves following the coupled CMC and BS treatment compared to the CK treatment were elevated in the range of 4.47–24.29% at the flowering and fruiting stage, 2.84–26.50% at fruit expansion stage, and 6.64–19.41% at maturation stage. In the light response data of different treatments, the maximum net photosynthetic rate occurred in the Y2C2 treatment, and the net photosynthetic rate, transpiration rate, and stomatal conductance were all the highest in the Y2C2 treatment during the fruit expansion stage, with the net photosynthetic rate being higher than that of the CK treatment by 5.09 µmol m−2 s−1. The combination treatments of CMC and BS increased apple yield by 10.69 to 27.62% as compared to the CK treatment, and also increased soluble reducing sugar, soluble solids, and VC and reduced the titratable acid content. There was no correlation between the SPAD value during fruit expansion (p > 0.05) and the other physiological indexes (p < 0.05). Through the established functional relationship between the application rate of CMC and BS and apple yield, the recommended BS application rate of 27 kg ha−1 and CMC application rate of 20.625 kg ha−1 could yield up to 43,357.8 kg ha−1.
Mitochondrial Control Region Database of Hungarian Fallow Deer (Dama dama) Populations for Forensic Use
Authors: Zorkóczy Orsolya K. , Wagenhoffer Zsombor , Lehotzky Pál , Pádár Zsolt , Zenke Petra
Published: June 2024

The evidential value of an mtDNA match between biological remains and their potential donor is determined by the random match probability of the haplotype. This probability is based on the haplotype’s population frequency estimate. Consequently, implementing a population study representative of the population relevant to a forensic case is vital to correctly evaluating the evidence. The emerging number of poaching cases and the limited availability of such data emphasizes the need for an improved fallow deer mtDNA population databank for forensic purposes, including targeting the entire mitochondrial control region. By sequencing a 945-base-pair-long segment of the mitochondrial control region in 138 animals from five populations in Hungary, we found four different haplotypes, including one which had not yet been described. Our results, supplemented with data already available from previous research, do not support the possibility of determining the population of origin, although some patterns of geographical separation can be distinguished. Estimates of molecular diversity indicate similarly low mtDNA diversity (Hd = 0.565 and π = 0.002) compared to data from other countries. The calculated random match probability of 0.547 shows a high probability of coincidence and, therefore, a limited capacity for exclusion. Our results indicate that despite the overall low genetic diversity of mtDNA within the Hungarian fallow deer samples, a pattern of differentiation among the regions is present, which can have relevance from a forensic point of view.
Exploring the Bioactive Properties and Therapeutic Benefits of Pear Pomace
Authors: Ferreira Joana , Tkacz Karolina , Turkiewicz Igor Piotr , Santos Isabel , Camoesas e Silva Mariana , Lima Ana , Sousa Isabel
Published: June 2024

The fruit juice industry generates a significant amount of waste, with a strong impact on the environment and the economy. Therefore, researchers have been focusing on the characterization of resources considered as food waste. This work provides information about the lipophilic and polar metabolites of pear pomace flours (PPFs) as a tool that can shed more light on the bioactive potential of this residue. Using UPLC-PDA, UPLC-FLR, and GC-MS, the study identified and quantified PPF’s polar and non-polar metabolites. Essential, conditional, and non-essential amino acids were found, with asparagine being the most abundant. Isoprenoids, including lutein, zeaxanthin, and carotene isomers, ranged from 10.8 to 22.9 mg/100 g dw. Total flavonoids and phenolic compounds were 520.5–636.4 mg/100 g dw and 536.9–660.1 mg/100 g dw, respectively. Tocotrienols and tocopherols were identified, with concentrations of 173.1–347.0 mg/100 g dw and 468.7–913.4 mg/100 g dw. Fatty acids were the major non-polar compounds. All fractions significantly reduced matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) activity. Although PPF had lower antioxidant potential (3–6 mmol Trolox/100 g dw), it inhibited AChE and BuChE by 23–30% compared to physostigmine salicylate. These findings suggest that pear pomace waste can be repurposed into functional products with valuable bioactive properties by re-introducing it in the food chain.
Sesamin Exerts an Antioxidative Effect by Activating the Nrf2 Transcription Factor in the Glial Cells of the Central Nervous System in Drosophila Larvae
Authors: Tsuji Akihiro , Kotani Eiji , Inoue Yoshihiro H.
Published: June 2024

Sesame seeds are abundant in sesamin, which exerts health-promoting effects such as extending the lifespan of adult Drosophila and suppressing oxidative stress by activating the Nrf2 transcription factor. Here, we investigated whether sesamin activated Nrf2 in larval tissues and induced the expression of Nrf2 target genes. In the sesamin-fed larvae, Nrf2 was activated in the central nervous system (CNS), gut, and salivary glands. The ectopic expression of Keap1 in glial cells inhibited sesamin-induced Nrf2 activation in the whole CNS more than in the neurons, indicating that sesamin activates Nrf2 in glia efficiently. We labeled the astrocytes as well as cortex and surface glia with fluorescence to identify the glial cell types in which Nrf2 was activated; we observed their activation in both cell types. These data suggest that sesamin may stimulate the expression of antioxidative genes in glial cells. Among the 17 candidate Nrf2 targets, the mRNA levels of Cyp6a2 and Cyp6g1 in cytochrome P450 were elevated in the CNS, gut, and salivary glands of the sesamin-fed larvae. However, this elevation did not lead to resistance against imidacloprid, which is detoxified by these enzymes. Our results suggest that sesamin may exert similar health-promoting effects on the human CNS and digestive tissues.
Adaptation of Augmentative and Alternative Communicators through the Study of Interactions with High-Tech Solution Users
Authors: González-González Jaime , Costa-Montenegro Enrique , García-Doval Fátima María , López-Bravo Cristina , de Arriba-Pérez Francisco
Published: June 2024

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (aac) strategies ease communication tasks for people who require accessible solutions. These strategies are usually addressed by technological solutions such as mobile applications. This research seeks clues on the development of such applications by analyzing user interactions with Android application PictoDroid Lite, an aac communicator. This study considered a data set containing more than 85,000 interactions of users from more than 50 countries. The goal was to identify the primary needs reflected in the users’ behavior and how these applications handle them, providing other researchers and developers with relevant information about how users interact with these applications. We detected areas of improvement regarding the adaptation to users’ needs in terms of profiling, smart suggestions, and time habits.
A Low-Complexity Start–Stop True Random Number Generator for FPGAs
Authors: Matuszewski Łukasz , Jessa Mieczysław
Published: June 2024

This paper introduces a low-complexity start–stop true random number generator (TRNG) utilizing jitter in ring oscillators (ROs). Incorporating phase detectors enhances entropy extraction from the same number of ROs. The raw bits undergo online post-processing using the SHA-1 algorithm, which is widely supported by many programming languages. The output bit streams pass all NIST statistical tests (SP 800-22 and SP-90B). Bits are generated on demand, enhancing security by preventing eavesdropping during continuous bit production. The TRNG maintains its performance regardless of the FPGA manufacturer.
Transferring Sentiment Cross-Lingually within and across Same-Family Languages
Authors: Thakkar Gaurish , Preradović Nives Mikelić , Tadić Marko
Published: June 2024

Natural language processing for languages with limited resources is hampered by a lack of data. Using English as a hub language for such languages, cross-lingual sentiment analysis has been developed. The sheer quantity of English language resources raises questions about its status as the primary resource. This research aims to examine the impact on sentiment analysis of adding data from same-family versus distant-family languages. We analyze the performance using low-resource and high-resource data from the same language family (Slavic), investigate the effect of using a distant-family language (English) and report the results for both settings. Quantitative experiments using multi-task learning demonstrate that adding a large quantity of data from related and distant-family languages is advantageous for cross-lingual sentiment transfer.
Application of Riemannian Seismic Ray Path Tracing in Salt Dome Prospecting
Authors: Yáñez Gabriela , Hernández-Gómez Jorge Javier , Trujillo-Alcántara Alfredo , Orozco-del-Castillo Mauricio Gabriel
Published: June 2024

Within the geophysical exploration utilising seismic methods, it is well known that if the explored distances are much greater than the wavelength of the seismic waves with which the exploration is carried out, the ray approach of the wave theory can be used. In this way, when the rays travel through an inhomogeneous medium, they follow curved trajectories, which is imperative to determine the geological features that produce reflection and refraction phenomena. In this paper, a simple algorithm for the calculation of the trajectory of a seismic beam through an inhomogeneous stratum is presented. For this, the construction of a pseudo-Riemannian metric is required from the function of P-wave velocities of the geological stratum. Thus, the problem is inverted because instead of finding the curved trajectory of the seismic beam in a background with a Euclidean metric, it is proposed that the beam follows a geodesic of a curved space-time specific to each stratum, becoming a simple and automatic process using the differential geometry apparatus. For the reader to gain insight into this tool, different geological setups from idealised ones up to a salt dome are presented.
No Pain, No Gain—Giving Real-Time Emotional Feedback in a Virtual Mirror Improves Collaboration in Virtual Teamwork
Authors: Schneider Nicklas , Vazquez Ignacio , Gloor Peter A.
Published: June 2024

This study investigates the impact of real-time emotional feedback on the quality of teamwork conducted over videoconferencing. We developed a framework that provides real-time feedback through a virtual mirror based on facial and voice emotion recognition. In an experiment with 28 teams (84 participants), teams collaborated over Zoom (version 5.16.6) to set up a virtual Mars station using custom simulation software (Mars Star City, version 4.0). Participants were divided into 14 experimental teams, which were shown the virtual mirror, and 14 control teams without it. Team performance was measured by the improvement in the Mars simulation output quality. Our analysis using correlation, multi-level regression, and machine learning revealed that fewer interruptions but an increasing number over time correlated with higher performance. Higher vocal arousal and happiness also enhanced performance. We confirmed that female presence in teams boosts performance. SHAP values indicated that high variability in happiness, head movement, and positive facial valence—an “emotional rollercoaster”—positively predicted team performance. The experimental group outperformed the control group, suggesting that virtual mirroring improves virtual teamwork and that interrupting each other more while speaking less, leads to better results.
Evaluating V2X-Based Vehicle Control under Unreliable Network Conditions, Focusing on Safety Risk
Authors: Nagy Roland , Török Árpád , Pethő Zsombor
Published: June 2024

With the emergence of Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) systems, it is important to investigate how deteriorating network parameters affect vehicle functionality based on wireless communication. It is important to determine how we can prevent the performance degradation of these functions and ensure safety on the roads. This paper examines the potential for enhancing the performance of a connected vehicle function by considering network parameters in the control algorithm. In order to achieve this, a safety indicator was incorporated into the control algorithm, which takes into account both vehicle dynamics and network parameters. Following an assessment of the proposed control method, it was determined that it is a suitable approach for enhancing the performance of the vehicle function.
Evaluation of Emission Factors for Particulate Matter and NO2 from Road Transport in Sofia, Bulgaria
Authors: Velizarova Margret , Dimitrova Reneta , Hristov Petar O. , Burov Angel , Brezov Danail , Hristova Elena , Gueorguiev Orlin
Published: June 2024

Traffic-related air pollution has a significant impact on the concentration of particulate matter (PM) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) in urban areas, but there are many uncertainties associated with the modeling of PM concentration due to non-exhaust emissions. Bulgarian weather, road surfaces and traffic conditions differ significantly from the UK’s and other EU countries’ averages, which underpin many assumptions in established models. The hypothesis is that the emission factors differ from those used to calculate traffic emissions using the EMIT model. The objective of this work is to adjust the emissions for PM and the relationship between the fractions of NOx and PM using the hourly mean concentrations from road transport and urban background automatic air quality stations in Sofia, Bulgaria. Various already-published and newly developed methods are applied to local observations to derive functions and relations that better represent Bulgarian road and traffic conditions. The ADMS-Urban model is validated and evaluated by comparing pollutant concentrations from simulations using original and adjusted emissions, showing an improvement in results after applying functions and relationships derived from local observations. This work is part of our efforts to improve air quality modeling in urban areas in Bulgaria.
Qualitative Analysis for the Solutions of Fractional Stochastic Differential Equations
Authors: Mohammed Djaouti Abdelhamid , Imran Liaqat Muhammad
Published: June 2024

Fractional pantograph stochastic differential equations (FPSDEs) combine elements of fractional calculus, pantograph equations, and stochastic processes to model complex systems with memory effects, time delays, and random fluctuations. Ensuring the well-posedness of these equations is crucial as it guarantees meaningful, reliable, and applicable solutions across various disciplines. In differential equations, regularity refers to the smoothness of solution behavior. The averaging principle offers an approximation that balances complexity and simplicity. Our research contributes to establishing the well-posedness, regularity, and averaging principle of FPSDE solutions in Lp spaces with p≥2 under Caputo derivatives. The main ingredients in the proof include the use of Hölder, Burkholder–Davis–Gundy, Jensen, and Grönwall–Bellman inequalities, along with the interval translation approach. To understand the theoretical results, we provide numerical examples at the end.
The Effect of Psychological Flexibility on Well-Being during the COVID-19 Pandemic: The Multiple Mediation Role of Mindfulness and Coping
Authors: Paiva Thiago , Silva Ana Nunes da , Neto David Dias , Karekla Maria , Kassianos Angelos P. , Gloster Andrew
Published: June 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic involved a complex set of stressors affecting the health and well-being of the population. The understanding of the psychological processes that influence well-being in response to the pandemic and their interrelation is vital. A promising process in understanding the emotional impacts of these stressors is psychological flexibility. This study investigated the effect of psychological flexibility on well-being, both directly and indirectly, via mindfulness and coping strategies. A total of 334 Portuguese adults participated in this cross-sectional study. Participants were asked to complete an online questionnaire, including measures of psychological flexibility, well-being, mindfulness, and coping strategies. A multiple mediation model studied whether there are conditional indirect effects of mindfulness and coping strategies on well-being. The results showed statistically significant correlations between psychological flexibility, well-being, mindfulness, and coping strategies. Furthermore, we found that mindfulness and coping strategies partly mediate the relationship between psychological flexibility and well-being. Understanding the processes through which psychological flexibility influences well-being in a stressful context is important in comprehending the processes involved in an emotional reaction to a pandemic-like societal event. Mindfulness and coping are shown to be important processes to consider in understanding this phenomenon and designing future responses.
The Effect of Slope on Smoke Characteristics of Natural Ventilation Tunnel with Shafts
Authors: Liang Chenchen , Yuan Zhongyuan , Qu Haoyu , Yu Nanyang
Published: June 2024

Tunnels with natural ventilation and extraction have become the focus of ventilation research in recent years. It is significant to study the characteristics of smoke in tunnel fires to ensure the safety of people and the tunnel structure. Previous research has mainly focused on natural ventilation in horizontal tunnels, and there are few studies on sloped tunnels. In this paper, we studied the smoke characteristics of natural ventilation extraction in slope tunnel fires both experimentally and theoretically. The small-scale experimental results showed that the position of the fire source, heat release rate (HRR), and the size of the shaft had little effect on the deflection angle of the fire plume. The deflection angle of fire plume was only related to the tunnel slope and increased with the tunnel slope. The slope had no effect on the smoke temperature distribution on the downside of the tunnel, while the smoke temperature on the upside decreased with the increase in the slope. The calculation models of the maximum smoke temperature rise and the smoke temperature distribution were obtained based on the experimental results and theoretical analysis. Compared with the experimental data, the developed semi-empirical models could provide a reliable prediction of smoke temperature.
SMAD7 Sustains XIAP Expression and Migration of Colorectal Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Colella Marco , Iannucci Andrea , Maresca Claudia , Albano Francesco , Mazzoccoli Carmela , Laudisi Federica , Monteleone Ivan , Monteleone Giovanni
Published: June 2024

The reorganization of the cell cytoskeleton and changes in the content of cell adhesion molecules are crucial during the metastatic spread of tumor cells. Colorectal cancer (CRC) cells express high SMAD7, a protein involved in the control of CRC cell growth. In the present study, we evaluated whether SMAD7 regulates the cytoskeleton reorganization and dynamics in CRC. Knockdown of SMAD7 with a specific antisense oligonucleotide (AS) in HCT116 and DLD1, two human CRC cell lines, reduced the migration rate and the content of F-ACTIN filaments. A gene array, real-time PCR, and Western blotting of SMAD7 AS-treated cells showed a marked down-regulation of the X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein (XIAP), a member of the inhibitor of apoptosis family, which has been implicated in cancer cell migration. IL-6 and IL-22, two cytokines that activate STAT3, enhanced XIAP in cancer cells, and such induction was attenuated in SMAD7-deficient cells. Finally, in human CRC, SMAD7 mRNA correlated with XIAP expression. Our data show that SMAD7 positively regulates XIAP expression and migration of CRC cells, and suggest a mechanism by which SMAD7 controls the architecture components of the CRC cell cytoskeleton.
Brain Metastases from Thyroid Carcinoma: Prognostic Factors and Outcomes
Authors: Esmaeilzadeh Majid , Atallah Oday , Müller Jörg Andreas , Bengel Frank , Polemikos Manolis , Heissler Hans E. , Krauss Joachim K.
Published: June 2024

Intracranial metastases from thyroid cancer are rare. Although the prognosis of thyroid cancer patients is generally favorable, the prognosis of patients with intracranial metastases from thyroid cancer has been considered unfavorable owing to lower survival rates among such patients compared to those without intracranial involvement. Many questions about their management remain unclear. The aim of the present study was to analyze the characteristics, treatment modalities, and outcomes of patients with brain metastases from thyroid cancer. Among 4320 patients with thyroid cancer recorded in our institutional database over a 30-year period, the data of 20 patients with brain metastasis were retrospectively collected and analyzed. The clinical characteristics, histological type of primary cancer and metastatic brain tumor, additional previous distant metastasis, treatment modalities, locations and characteristics on radiologic findings, time interval between the first diagnosis of primary thyroid cancer and brain metastasis, and survival were analyzed. Among our patient cohort, the mean age at initial diagnosis was 59.3 ± 14.1 years, and at the manifestation of diagnosis of cerebral metastasis, the mean age was found to be 64.8 ± 14.9 years. The histological types of primary thyroid cancer were identified as papillary in ten patients, follicular in seven, and poorly differentiated carcinoma in three. The average interval between the diagnosis of thyroid cancer and brain metastasis was 63.4 ± 58.4 months (range: 0–180 months). Ten patients were identified as having a single intracranial lesion, and ten patients were found to have multiple lesions. Surgical resection was primarily performed in fifteen patients, and whole-brain radiotherapy, radiotherapy, or tyrosine kinase inhibitors were applied in the remaining five patients. The overall median survival time was 15 months after the diagnosis of BMs from TC (range: 1–252 months). Patients with thyroid cancer can develop brain metastasis even many years after the diagnosis of the primary tumor. The results of our study demonstrate increased overall survival in patients younger than 60 years of age at the time of diagnosis of brain metastasis. There was no difference in survival between patients with brain metastasis from papillary carcinoma and those with follicular thyroid carcinoma.
Chromogenic LMO2 mRNA ISH Expression Correlates with LMO2 Protein and Gene Expression and Captures Their Survival Impact in Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma, NOS
Authors: Papaleo Natalia , Molina-Alvarez Andrea , Onieva Ricard , Fuertes Diana , Sanchez-Gonzalez Blanca , Riera Xenia , Lopez-Segura David , Lome-Maldonado Carmen , Ara-Mancebo Xavier , Yelamos Jose , Salido Marta , Vazquez Ivonne , Calvo Xavier , Colomo Luis
Published: June 2024

Background: LMO2 is a relevant gene involved in B-cell ontogeny and a survival predictor of aggressive large B-cell lymphomas (aLBCL). Most studies assessing LMO2 mRNA expression have relied on microarray platforms or qRT-PCR methods, overlooking tissue morphology. In this study, we evaluate LMO2 RNA expression by chromogenic in situ hybridization (CISH) in normal tissue and in a series of 82 aLBCL. Methods: LMO2 CISH was performed in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues, scored by three different methods, and correlated with a transcriptome panel. Results: We obtained statistically significant results correlating the methods of evaluation with LMO2 protein expression and gene expression results. Normal tonsil tissue showed high levels of LMO2, particularly within the light zone of the germinal center. Conversely, in aLBCL, a notable reduction in LMO2 expression was noted, remarkably in cases carrying MYC rearrangements. Furthermore, significant results were obtained through overall survival and Cox regression survival analysis, incorporating International Prognostic Index data alongside LMO2 expression levels. Conclusions: We show a reliable method to identify LMO2 mRNA expression by CISH, effectively capturing many of the reported biologic features of LMO2.
Discovering Potential in Non-Cancer Medications: A Promising Breakthrough for Multiple Myeloma Patients
Authors: Al-Odat Omar S. , Nelson Emily , Budak-Alpdogan Tulin , Jonnalagadda Subash C. , Desai Dhimant , Pandey Manoj K.
Published: June 2024

MM is a common type of cancer that unfortunately leads to a significant number of deaths each year. The majority of the reported MM cases are detected in the advanced stages, posing significant challenges for treatment. Additionally, all MM patients eventually develop resistance or experience relapse; therefore, advances in treatment are needed. However, developing new anti-cancer drugs, especially for MM, requires significant financial investment and a lengthy development process. The study of drug repurposing involves exploring the potential of existing drugs for new therapeutic uses. This can significantly reduce both time and costs, which are typically a major concern for MM patients. The utilization of pre-existing non-cancer drugs for various myeloma treatments presents a highly efficient and cost-effective strategy, considering their prior preclinical and clinical development. The drugs have shown promising potential in targeting key pathways associated with MM progression and resistance. Thalidomide exemplifies the success that can be achieved through this strategy. This review delves into the current trends, the challenges faced by conventional therapies for MM, and the importance of repurposing drugs for MM. This review highlights a noncomprehensive list of conventional therapies that have potentially significant anti-myeloma properties and anti-neoplastic effects. Additionally, we offer valuable insights into the resources that can help streamline and accelerate drug repurposing efforts in the field of MM.
Photocatalytic 4-Nitrophenol Reduction by Hydrothermally Synthesized Mesoporous Co- and/or Fe-Substituted Aluminophosphates
Authors: Swetha B. M. , Kumar Rajeev , A. V. Anupama , Kumar Sarvesh , Yan Fei , Sahoo Balaram
Published: June 2024

Mesoporous cobalt- and/or iron-substituted aluminophosphates were synthesized by a hydrothermal method, followed by pyrolysis and calcination. The substitution of the transition metal elements modified the electronic properties of the samples and the accompanying surface characteristics. The samples showed tunable catalytic activity through the substitution of Fe and/or Co. We have demonstrated that the light-induced photocatalytic 4-nitrophenol reduction reaction can be enhanced through the substitution of Fe and/or Co in aluminophosphates. The induction time associated with the three different types of samples, observed due to the influence of the substituents, allows us to understand the mechanism of the 4-nitrophenol reduction process in our samples. Our work solves the issue associated with the origin of induction time and the enhancement of the catalytic activity of mesoporous aluminophosphates in the 4-nitrophenol reduction reaction through a controlled modification of the electronic properties.
A Preliminary Assessment of Sorption-Enhanced Methanol Synthesis in a Fluidized Bed Reactor with Selective Addition/Removal of the Sorbent
Authors: Menéndez Miguel , Ciércoles Raúl , Lasobras Javier , Soler Jaime , Herguido Javier
Published: June 2024

Methanol synthesis from CO2 can be made in the presence of a sorbent to increase the achievable yield. If the fresh sorbent is continuously fed to a fluidized bed and separated from the catalyst bed by segregation, a steady-state operation can be achieved. The objective of the present work is to provide insight on the suitable operating conditions for such a fluidized bed reactor system. For this, a conventional CuO/ZnO/Al2O3 was selected as the catalyst, and the SiOLITE® zeolite was selected as the sorbent. Different particle sizes were used to be tested in various proportions to perform the fluidized bed segregation study. The fluid dynamics and segregation of the catalyst–sorbent binary mixtures were the most critical points in the development of this proof of concept. A good bed segregation with a mixing index of 0.31 was achieved. This fact favors the correct operation of the system with the continuous addition of adsorbent, which had hardly any catalyst losses during the tests carried out, achieving a loss of 0.005 g/min under optimal conditions. Continuous feeding and removal of sorbent with a low loss of catalyst was observed. Reactor simulations with MATLAB provided promising results, indicating that the addition of sorbent considerably improves the methanol yield under some operating conditions. This makes it more viable for industrial scaling, since it allows us to considerably reduce the pressure used in the methanol synthesis process or to increase the yield per step, reducing the recirculation of unconverted reactants.
Consensus Guidelines for the Use of Vosoritide in Children with Achondroplasia in Australia
Authors: Tofts Louise , Ireland Penny , Tate Tracy , Raj Supriya , Carroll Theresa , Munns Craig F. , Knipe Stephen , Langdon Katherine , McGregor Lesley , McKenzie Fiona , Zankl Andreas , Savarirayan Ravi
Published: June 2024

Background: Achondroplasia, the most prevalent skeletal dysplasia, stems from a functional mutation in the fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 gene, leading to growth impairment. This condition presents multifaceted medical, functional and psychosocial challenges throughout childhood, adolescence and adulthood. Current management strategies aim to minimise medical complications, optimise functional capabilities and provide comprehensive supportive care. Vosoritide (trade name: VOXZOGO®, BioMarin Pharmaceuticals) is the first disease-modifying pharmaceutical treatment approved for the management of patients with achondroplasia and became available in Australia in May 2023. Methods: Standardised clinical guidelines for its optimal use are not yet widely available. To address this gap, a multidisciplinary Australian Vosoritide Working Group, comprising 12 experts with experience in achondroplasia management from across Australia, developed recommendations to guide the use of vosoritide in clinical practice. Results: The recommendations, which are expert opinions of the Australian Vosoritide Working Group, aim to (i) standardise the use of vosoritide across Australia, (ii) support the safe clinical rollout of vosoritide and (iii) support universal access. Conclusions: These recommendations have been developed for healthcare professionals and institutions that are engaged in using vosoritide in the management of achondroplasia and will be revised using a formal framework for clinical guideline development once more evidence is available.
On the Unforced or Forced Nature of the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation: A Linear and Nonlinear Causality Analysis
Authors: Triacca Umberto , Pasini Antonello
Published: June 2024

In recent years, there has been intense debate in the literature as to whether the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (AMO) is a genuine representation of natural climate variability or is substantially driven by external factors. Here, we perform an analysis of the influence of external (natural and anthropogenic) forcings on the AMO behaviour by means of a linear Granger causality analysis and by a nonlinear extension of this method. Our results show that natural forcings do not have any causal role on AMO in both linear and nonlinear analyses. Instead, a certain influence of anthropogenic forcing is found in a linear framework.
Geospatial Analysis of Flood Susceptibility in Nigeria’s Vulnerable Coastal States: A Detailed Assessment and Mitigation Strategy Proposal
Authors: Bello Muhammad , Singh Saurabh , Singh Suraj Kumar , Pandey Vikas , Kumar Pankaj , Meraj Gowhar , Kanga Shruti , Sajan Bhartendu
Published: June 2024

This study employs advanced geospatial analytical techniques to evaluate the vulnerability of Nigeria’s coastal states and their constituent local government areas to flood hazards, which represent a critical and escalating risk within the coastal hazard paradigm intensified by climate change phenomena. The study’s objective is to utilize geospatial data to delineate and quantify the intensity and distribution of flood susceptibility, thus establishing a foundational framework for developing comprehensive disaster management strategies in response to the challenges posed by climate variability. The research uses satellite imagery and geographic information system (GIS)-based hydrological modeling to delineate regions susceptible to flooding, synthesizing topographical and hydrological data to stratify areas into discrete flood susceptibility categories. The findings indicate that the Delta coastal State of Nigeria contains extensive medium to high-risk flood zones spanning 8304.57 km2. While the Bayelsa coastal State of Nigeria presents critical areas at high to very high flood risk, encompassing 5506.61 km2 at high risk and 1826.88 km2 at very high risk, this highlights the urgent necessity for immediate and strategic mitigation measures. This research highlights the critical importance of geospatial technology in shaping disaster management and enhancing community resilience against increasing flood frequencies. As Nigeria’s coastal regions face escalating flood susceptibility, advanced geospatial methods are vital for assessing and mitigating these climate-induced threats, contributing to climate-resilient planning and aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 13: Climate Action. The study’s geospatial approach delivers precise flood risk evaluations and guides targeted mitigation efforts, marking significant progress in managing coastal hazards in a changing climate.
Rate-Dependent Evolution of Microstructure and Stress in Silicon Films Deposited by Electron Beam Evaporation
Authors: Dahl-Hansen Runar Plünnecke , Stange Marit , Sunde Tor Olav , Ulyashin Alexander
Published: June 2024

Growing high-quality Si films at high rates with thicknesses ranging from the few nm- to µm-range while keeping the material consumption at a minimum is important for a wide range of Si-based technologies, spanning from batteries to sensors and solar cells. In this work, we elucidate the effects of electron beam deposition (e-beam) conditions on the growth of ~4 µm thick Si layers on bare and thermally oxidized (001)-oriented Si substrates. All depositions are performed from a stabilized and refillable melt of broken B-doped wafers and recollected using Si-shields during deposition for recycling. We find that increasing the deposition rate from 0.3 to 23 nm/s at a substrate temperature of 1000 °C reduces the roughness, void fraction, and residual stress of epitaxial Si-on-Si layers. For Si-on-SiO2, all films are polycrystalline under the same deposition conditions as for Si-on-Si, with a reduction in void fraction and increase in roughness at higher deposition rates. The residual stress for Si-on-SiO2 is comparable across all deposition rates >1 nm/s. Furthermore, we measure lower resistivities in the films than in the feedstock for Si-on-Si and higher than the feedstock for Si-on-SiO2. While the films become microstructurally denser and less defective at higher deposition rates, the resistivity increases for each next deposition step in the case of multi-step depositions from the same feedstock. Time-of-flight scanning secondary mass spectroscopy measurements show that the films have a significantly higher B-concentration than the feedstock, suggesting B-gettering to the melted region and transferring to the Si film upon the e-beam deposition process. This work demonstrates how electron beam evaporation can be used to recollect and recycle waste Si pieces, bringing important insights into how the deposition parameters influence the quality of the deposited polycrystalline as well as epitaxial thin-to-thick films.
Salvage High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound for Prostate Cancer after Radiation Failure: A Narrative Review
Authors: Sobhani Sina , Dadabhoy Anosh , Ghoreifi Alireza , Lebastchi Amir H.
Published: June 2024

For patients diagnosed with localized prostate cancer, there are multiple treatment options available. The traditional treatment modalities include radical prostatectomy and radiotherapy. Nevertheless, focal therapy, including high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) and cryotherapy, has emerged as a less-invasive method in this setting. Some patients undergoing primary radiation therapy experience recurrence, but there is currently no consensus on the optimal approach for salvage treatment in such cases. The lack of robust data and randomized controlled trials comparing different whole-gland and focal salvage therapies presents a challenge in determining the ideal treatment strategy. This narrative review examines the prospective and retrospective data available on salvage HIFU following radiation therapy. Based on the literature, salvage HIFU for radio-recurrent prostate cancer has promising oncological outcomes, with an overall 5-year survival rate of around 85%, as well as incontinence rates of about 30% based on the patient’s risk group, follow-up times, definitions used, and other aspects of the study. Salvage HIFU for prostate cancer proves to be an effective treatment modality for select patients with biochemical recurrence following radiotherapy.
Durable Response to Atezolizumab in Extensive-Stage Small-Cell Lung Cancer Leading to 60 Months Overall Survival: A Case Report
Authors: Paczkowski Freeman , Raphael Jacques , Browne Claire
Published: June 2024

Small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) remains a disease with poor prognosis, particularly in extensive-stage SCLC (ES-SCLC). Current standard-of-care treatment includes chemotherapy with platinum agents and etoposide plus immunotherapy with atezolizumab or durvalumab, which has achieved a mean overall survival of 12–13 months in clinical trials. However, long-term survival in ES-SCLC, even with the addition of immunotherapy, continues to be rare. We present the case of a middle-aged male patient diagnosed with ES-SCLC who was treated with four cycles of induction chemotherapy (carboplatin and etoposide) and atezolizumab, starting maintenance atezolizumab every 21 days thereafter, and thoracic radiotherapy. After 9 months, he experienced mild disease progression and was rechallenged with six cycles of carboplatin and etoposide with continued atezolizumab. Subsequent imaging showed near-complete disease resolution which has been sustained since. He has continued on maintenance atezolizumab since diagnosis and has achieved 60 months overall survival and 44 months progression-free survival. Throughout treatment, he has maintained a high functional capacity and only experienced one immune-related adverse event. Our patient is representative of a small subset who are capable of achieving durable responses to immunotherapy and his case highlights the need for further research to elucidate the clinical and biological factors driving this response.
Convolutional Neural Network Model for Intestinal Metaplasia Recognition in Gastric Corpus Using Endoscopic Image Patches
Authors: Ligato Irene , De Magistris Giorgio , Dilaghi Emanuele , Cozza Giulio , Ciardiello Andrea , Panzuto Francesco , Giagu Stefano , Annibale Bruno , Napoli Christian , Esposito Gianluca
Published: June 2024

Gastric cancer (GC) is a significant healthcare concern, and the identification of high-risk patients is crucial. Indeed, gastric precancerous conditions present significant diagnostic challenges, particularly early intestinal metaplasia (IM) detection. This study developed a deep learning system to assist in IM detection using image patches from gastric corpus examined using virtual chromoendoscopy in a Western country. Utilizing a retrospective dataset of endoscopic images from Sant’Andrea University Hospital of Rome, collected between January 2020 and December 2023, the system extracted 200 × 200 pixel patches, classifying them with a voting scheme. The specificity and sensitivity on the patch test set were 76% and 72%, respectively. The optimization of a learnable voting scheme on a validation set achieved a specificity of 70% and sensitivity of 100% for entire images. Despite data limitations and the absence of pre-trained models, the system shows promising results for preliminary screening in gastric precancerous condition diagnostics, providing an explainable and robust Artificial Intelligence approach.
Pedagogical Strategies and Critical Success Factors for Enhancing Active Learning of Undergraduate Construction and Surveying Students
Authors: Lam Edmond W. M. , Chan Daniel W. M. , Siu Francis M. F. , Oluleye Benjamin I. , Jayasena Nimesha Sahani
Published: June 2024

Active learning is essential for students in the construction and surveying disciplines due to the practical work nature and technical demands of these professions. This research study aims to identify and evaluate effective pedagogical strategies and critical success factors (CSFs) that can enhance active learning among undergraduate construction and surveying students. Customized e-learning materials based on the Technology, Pedagogy, Content, and Knowledge (TPACK) framework were adopted to improve the learning outcomes and effectiveness for semester-long construction-related research course students. Subsequently, an institutional student-based questionnaire survey was conducted and analyzed using mean score, exploratory factor analysis, and fuzzy synthetic evaluation (FSE). Accordingly, the top five active instructional learning strategies are using examples to reinforce understanding, case studies to encourage critical thinking, videos to improve understanding, connecting course contents to current community events, and creating classroom versions of interactive games. Exploratory factor analysis classified the CSFs into five major factor categories. The FSE results indicated that the top three CSF categories enhancing students’ active learning include electronic tools as learning aids, complementary learning and feedback, and model learning system development. This study provides essential learning environments and components needed to foster active learning among undergraduate construction and surveying students in Hong Kong and worldwide.