bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Teaching complexity in biology through agent-based simulations: the relationship between students’ knowledge of complex systems and metamodeling knowledge
Authors: Miller Katherine M. , Yoon Susan A.
Published: July 2023

Real-world complex systems research seeks to understand how systems in the world can follow the same rules of complexity. Scientists have found similarities in processes—such as self-organization, micro-to macro-level emergence, and feedback loops—in seemingly disparate phenomena such as the spread of infectious diseases and how traffic patterns are formed. Our project, BioGraph 2.0, was developed to respond to the issue of students’ disjointed understanding of biology due to the fragmented nature of how high school biology is taught in high school classrooms. We hypothesized that by framing multiple biology concepts through the lens of complexity using dynamic simulations, or models featuring complex systems processes, students would be able to see complex systems as a unifying concept throughout biology. We built a series of units modeling phenomena on biological concepts such as gene regulation, ecology, and evolution using an agent-based modeling tool called StarLogo Nova. While previous research over the last decade of this project has highlighted students’ growth in complex systems understanding, in this study, we explored the relationship between complex systems and agent-based models. We investigated pre and post intervention data from over 300 high school students to determine how their metamodeling knowledge influenced their understanding of complex systems. Through a regression analysis, we demonstrate that growth in students’ modeling understanding significantly predicted growth in complex systems understanding. We further triangulate our findings with interview data from students who highlight the importance of the modeling tool to support their complex systems learning.
Forecasting wind power based on an improved al-Biruni Earth radius metaheuristic optimization algorithm
Authors: Saeed Mohammed A. , Ibrahim Abdelhameed , El-Kenawy El-Sayed M. , Abdelhamid Abdelaziz A. , El-Said M. , Abualigah Laith , Alharbi Amal H. , Khafaga Doaa Sami , Elbaksawi Osama
Published: July 2023

Wind power forecasting is pivotal in optimizing renewable energy generation and grid stability. This paper presents a groundbreaking optimization algorithm to enhance wind power forecasting through an improved al-Biruni Earth radius (BER) metaheuristic optimization algorithm. The BER algorithm, based on stochastic fractal search (SFS) principles, has been refined and optimized to achieve superior accuracy in wind power prediction. The proposed algorithm is denoted by BERSFS and is used in an ensemble model’s feature selection and optimization to boost prediction accuracy. In the experiments, the first scenario covers the proposed binary BERSFS algorithm’s feature selection capabilities for the dataset under test, while the second scenario demonstrates the algorithm’s regression capabilities. The BERSFS algorithm is investigated and compared to state-of-the-art algorithms of BER, SFS, particle swarm optimization, gray wolf optimizer, and whale optimization algorithm. The proposed optimizing ensemble BERSFS-based model is also compared to the basic models of long short-term memory, bidirectional long short-term memory, gated recurrent unit, and the k-nearest neighbor ensemble model. The statistical investigation utilized Wilcoxon’s rank-sum and analysis of variance tests to investigate the robustness of the created BERSFS-based model. The achieved results and analysis confirm the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed approach in wind power forecasting.
An objective approach to select surrogate species for connectivity conservation
Authors: Dutta Trishna , De Barba Marta , Selva Nuria , Fedorca Ancuta Cotovelea , Maiorano Luigi , Thuiller Wilfried , Zedrosser Andreas , Signer Johannes , Pflüger Femke , Frank Shane , Lucas Pablo M. , Balkenhol Niko
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Connected landscapes can increase the effectiveness of protected areas by facilitating individual movement and gene flow between populations, thereby increasing the persistence of species even in fragmented habitats. Connectivity planning is often based on modeling connectivity for a limited number of species, i.e., “connectivity umbrellas”, which serve as surrogates for co-occurring species. Connectivity umbrellas are usually selected a priori, based on a few life history traits and often without evaluating other species.

Methods

We developed a quantitative method to identify connectivity umbrellas at multiple scales. We demonstrate the approach on the terrestrial large mammal community (24 species) in continental Europe at two scales: 13 geographic biomes and 36 ecoregions, and evaluate the interaction of landscape characteristics on the selection of connectivity umbrellas.

Results

We show that the number, identity, and attributes of connectivity umbrellas are sensitive to spatial scale and human influence on the landscape. Multiple species were selected as connectivity umbrellas in 92% of the geographic biomes (average of 4.15 species) and 83% of the ecoregions (average of 3.16 species). None of the 24 species evaluated is by itself an effective connectivity umbrella across its entire range. We identified significant interactions between species and landscape attributes. Species selected as connectivity umbrellas in regions with low human influence have higher mean body mass, larger home ranges, longer dispersal distances, smaller geographic ranges, occur at lower population densities, and are of higher conservation concern than connectivity umbrellas in more human-influenced regions. More species are required to meet connectivity targets in regions with high human influence (average of three species) in comparison to regions with low human influence (average of 1.67 species).

Discussion

We conclude that multiple species selected in relation to landscape scale and characteristics are essential to meet connectivity goals. Our approach enhances objectivity in selecting which and how many species are required for connectivity conservation and fosters well-informed decisions, that in turn benefit entire communities and ecosystems.
Investigating the mechanism of urbanization on the net primary productivity of vegetation in the Yangtze River Economic Belt: a comprehensive analysis from global and local effects
Authors: Wang Sicheng , Wei Guoen , Gao Mingming , Fan Yuemin
Published: July 2023

The stressful effects of urbanization on vegetation net primary productivity (NPP) and vegetation–carbon cycle functions within the Yangtze River Economic Belt (YEB) under the sustainable development goals (SDG) and the concept of coordinated regional development, have garnered growing attention. Existing studies have been insufficient in comprehensively examining both the global effects and local variations resulting from urbanization in the region. Additionally, insufficient attention has been given to the heterogeneity of the ecological negative effects of urbanization in the three major urban agglomerations within the YEB. Based on multivariate remote sensing image and socioeconomic statistics data, this study integrates population, economic and land dimensions to construct comprehensive urbanization indexes and quantify the spatio-temporal evolution patterns of NPP and urbanization in the YEB. The focus is on detecting the global response of NPP to urbanization using the Spatial Durbin model and discussing the local heterogeneity of the effect in the Yangtze River Delta urban agglomeration (YRD), the middle reaches of Yangtze River urban agglomeration (MRYRU), and the Chengdu-Chongqing urban agglomeration (CCU) based on a geographically weighted regression model. The results show that the average NPP of the YEB increased from 592g*c/m2 to 670g*c/m2 at a rate of 0.621% from 2000 to 2020, with the most significant growth in the CCU, and the overall pattern of change is “increased in the north and decreased in the south”. The negative spatial autocorrelation between urbanization and NPP is becoming increasingly significant, and the negatively correlated clusters is the dominant type of local autocorrelation, among which the number of “High-Low” type cities is the largest and growing, mainly located in the northern regions of Anhui and Jiangsu. The significant negative effect of urbanization on the productive capacity of vegetation cover systems was verified, and a negative spillover effect that far exceeded the local negative effect was also confirmed. The effect of urbanization on NPP has significant local variability and gradually shifts to the effect pattern of positive effect in the east and negative effect in the west, while the pattern of urbanization-driven effects in the three urban agglomerations also continues to change. This study increases the concern about the negative ecological effects of urbanization, and more importantly, provides a basis for the joint action of ecological restoration and management in the Yangtze River Economic Belt and the implementation of differentiated governance policies around urban agglomerations.
Endogenous erythropoietin has immunoregulatory functions that limit the expression of autoimmune kidney disease in mice
Authors: Bin Sofia , Cantarelli Chiara , Horwitz Julian K. , Gentile Micaela , Podestà Manuel Alfredo , La Manna Gaetano , Heeger Peter S. , Cravedi Paolo
Published: July 2023

Background

Administration of recombinant erythropoietin (EPO), a kidney-produced hormone with erythropoietic functions, has been shown to have multiple immunoregulatory effects in mice and humans, but whether physiological levels of EPO regulate immune function in vivo has not been previously evaluated.

Methods

We generated mice in which we could downregulate EPO production using a doxycycline (DOX)-inducible, EPO-specific silencing RNA (shEPOrtTAPOS), and we crossed them with B6.MRL-Faslpr/J mice that develop spontaneous lupus. We treated these B6.MRL/lpr shEPOrtTAPOS with DOX and serially measured anti-dsDNA antibodies, analyzed immune subsets by flow cytometry, and evaluated clinical signs of disease activity over 6 months of age in B6.MRL/lpr shEPOrtTAPOS and in congenic shEPOrtTANEG controls.

Results

In B6.MRL/lpr mice, Epo downregulation augmented anti-dsDNA autoantibody levels and increased disease severity and percentages of germinal center B cells compared with controls. It also increased intracellular levels of IL-6 and MCP-1 in macrophages.

Discussion

Our data in a murine model of lupus document that endogenous EPO reduces T- and B-cell activation and autoantibody production, supporting the conclusion that EPO physiologically acts as a counterregulatory mechanism to control immune homeostasis.
Phylogeography of the Asian green mussel, Perna viridis: pronounced regional genetic differentiation is explained by major freshwater input into the Bay of Bengal
Authors: Gardner Jonathan P. A. , Patterson Jamila , Patterson Edward J. K.
Published: July 2023

The Asian green mussel (AGM), Perna viridis, is a mussel of ecological and economic importance throughout much of the tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, from China and Korea in the east to Oman on the Arabian Peninsula in the west. We collated published DNA sequence data and then analysed 467 bp of cytochrome c oxidase I gene (COI) sequence variation from 649 mussels (576 from SE Asia and 73 from India) to test for regional differentiation. Analysis of molecular variation, a haplotype network and a neighbour-joining tree all revealed significant differentiation between mussels from India and those from SE Asia. We observed a greater number of segregating sites (haplotypes) and private haplotypes than expected for Indian mussels compared to SE Asian mussels, based on the respective sample sizes. Tests of neutrality revealed population expansion or a recent selective sweep for only the mussels from India. We suggest that the differentiation of the Indian from the SE Asian mussels is explained by the pronounced seasonal input of freshwater into the northern Bay of Bengal area, which acts as a (semi-permeable) barrier to gene flow between the two regions (i.e., east versus west of the Bay). This suggestion is based on the oceanography of the region and is consistent with the biogeography and reports of genetic breaks in a range of taxa in this region. Further targetted sampling of AGMs from the east coast of India, Bangladesh and Myanmar is required to test this hypothesis, and additional sampling of AGMs from west of India (e.g., Pakistan, Iran, the Arabian Peninsula) will also be informative. Finally, this study is based on the analysis of a single marker (COI) because this is all that is presently available from published sources but we note that the application of new molecular markers such as single nucleotide polymorphisms to newly collected mussel samples will greatly advance our understanding of the AGM genetic discontinuity and its age, and help test its geographical location and its nature (e.g., a steep/shallow cline or a stepped cline).
Processing, microstructure, properties, and applications of MoSi2-containing composites: a review
Authors: Tapia-López J. , Pech-Canul M. I. , García H. M.
Published: July 2023

Intermetallic molybdenum disilicide (MoSi2) possesses unique physical, chemical, thermal, and mechanical properties that make it compatible with some ceramics (SiC, Al2O3) and metals (Cu, Al) to manufacture composite materials. Its current applications, chiefly limited to heating elements, can be expanded if its properties are judiciously combined with those of other materials like SiC or Al to produce ceramic- and metal-matrix composites with improved mechanical, thermal, functional, or even multifunctional properties. This review presents a perspective on the feasibility of manufacturing ceramic- and metallic-based MoSi2 composite materials. A comprehensive discussion of the pros and cons of current liquid-state and solid-state processing routes for MoSi2 metal-matrix composites and the resulting typical microstructures is presented. Although MoSi2 has been studied for more than five decades, it was not until recently that industrial applications demanding high temperature and corrosion resistance started utilizing MoSi2 as a bulk material and a coating. Furthermore, beyond its traditional use due to its thermal properties, the most recent applications include it as a contact material in microelectronic components or circuits and optoelectronics. The short-term global growth predicted for the MoSi2 heating elements market is expected to significantly impact possible new applications, considering its potential for reuse and recyclability. A prospective assessment of the application of recycled MoSi2 to composite materials is presented.
Insights into the physiological and genomic characterization of three bacterial isolates from a highly alkaline, terrestrial serpentinizing system
Authors: Thompson Jaclyn , Barr Casey , Babcock-Adams Lydia , Bird Lina , La Cava Eugenio , Garber Arkadiy , Hongoh Yuichi , Liu Mark , Nealson Kenneth H. , Okamoto Akihiro , Repeta Daniel , Suzuki Shino , Tacto Clarissa , Tashjian Michelle , Merino Nancy
Published: July 2023

The terrestrial serpentinite-hosted ecosystem known as “The Cedars” is home to a diverse microbial community persisting under highly alkaline (pH ~ 12) and reducing (Eh < −550 mV) conditions. This extreme environment presents particular difficulties for microbial life, and efforts to isolate microorganisms from The Cedars over the past decade have remained challenging. Herein, we report the initial physiological assessment and/or full genomic characterization of three isolates: Paenibacillus sp. Cedars (‘Paeni-Cedars’), Alishewanella sp. BS5-314 (‘Ali-BS5-314’), and Anaerobacillus sp. CMMVII (‘Anaero-CMMVII’). Paeni-Cedars is a Gram-positive, rod-shaped, mesophilic facultative anaerobe that grows between pH 7–10 (minimum pH tested was 7), temperatures 20–40°C, and 0–3% NaCl concentration. The addition of 10–20 mM CaCl2 enhanced growth, and iron reduction was observed in the following order, 2-line ferrihydrite > magnetite > serpentinite ~ chromite ~ hematite. Genome analysis identified genes for flavin-mediated iron reduction and synthesis of a bacillibactin-like, catechol-type siderophore. Ali-BS5-314 is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped, mesophilic, facultative anaerobic alkaliphile that grows between pH 10–12 and temperatures 10–40°C, with limited growth observed 1–5% NaCl. Nitrate is used as a terminal electron acceptor under anaerobic conditions, which was corroborated by genome analysis. The Ali-BS5-314 genome also includes genes for benzoate-like compound metabolism. Anaero-CMMVII remained difficult to cultivate for physiological studies; however, growth was observed between pH 9–12, with the addition of 0.01–1% yeast extract. Anaero-CMMVII is a probable oxygen-tolerant anaerobic alkaliphile with hydrogenotrophic respiration coupled with nitrate reduction, as determined by genome analysis. Based on single-copy genes, ANI, AAI and dDDH analyses, Paeni-Cedars and Ali-BS5-314 are related to other species (P. glucanolyticus and A. aestuarii, respectively), and Anaero-CMMVII represents a new species. The characterization of these three isolates demonstrate the range of ecophysiological adaptations and metabolisms present in serpentinite-hosted ecosystems, including mineral reduction, alkaliphily, and siderophore production.
Anxiolytic effects of Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat Carbonisata-based carbon dots in mCPP-induced anxiety-like behavior in mice: a nature-inspired approach
Authors: Cui Luming , Zhang Qian , Zhang Yifan , Li Tingjie , Li Menghan , Yuan Jinye , Wu Zhiyi , Zhang Yue , Kong Hui , Qu Huihua , Zhao Yan
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Anxiety disorders have emerged as a predominant health concern, yet existing pharmacological treatments for anxiety still present various challenges. Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat Carbonisata (CMRC) has been utilized in China for approximately 400 years as a therapeutic intervention for anxiety disorders. In this study, a novel type of carbon dots derived from the decoction of Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat Carbonisata (CMRC-CDs) was identified and isolated, and their morphological structure and functional groups were characterized. Furthermore, the effects of CMRC-CDs on m-chlorophenylpiperazine (mCPP)-induced anxiety-like behaviour in mice were examined and quantified. In order to investigate the potential mechanisms of their anxiolytic effects, concentrations of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis hormones, amino acid neurotransmitters, and monoamine neurotransmitters were measured.

Methods: In this study, we synthesized CMRC-CDs and evaluated their potential anti-anxiety effects in a controlled experiment involving 48 male ICR mice. The mice were randomly divided into six groups, treated with CMRC-CDs at different doses for 14 days, and subjected to Open-Field (OF) and Elevated Plus Maze (EPM) tests. Post-behavioral evaluations, blood samples and brain tissues were collected for neurotransmitter and Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis hormone quantification via ELISA. Additionally, cytotoxicity of CMRC-CDs was assessed using a Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay on RAW 264.7 cells.

Results and Discussion: CMRC-CDs were spherical and homogeneously dispersed, with diameters ranging from 1.4 to 4.0 nm and an abundance of chemical groups on their surface. In the open-field (OF) test, mice pre-treated with CMRC-CDs demonstrated an increased proportion of time spent in the central area and a higher frequency of entries into the central area. In the elevated plus maze (EPM) test, mice pre-treated with CMRC-CDs exhibited a greater number of entries into the open arm and an extended duration spent in the open arm. CMRC-CDs were observed to decrease serum concentrations of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), and corticosterone (CORT). Furthermore, CMRC-CDs were found to increase γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) levels, while concurrently reducing glutamic acid (Glu) concentrations in brain tissue. CMRC-CDs demonstrated anxiolytic effects, which may be attributed to their modulation of hormones and neurotransmitters. This finding suggests the potential therapeutic value of CMRC-CDs in the clinical treatment of anxiety disorders.
“Bitcoin now”: temporal discounting in Bitcoin holders
Authors: El Haj Mohamad , Moustafa Ahmed A.
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Cryptocurrency investment and trading are rapidly growing activities due to the development of applications and platforms that offer fast, continuous, and easy entry into the cryptocurrency world. To understand decision making in cryptocurrency holders, we assessed temporal discounting, that is, whether Bitcoin holders disregard rewards if they are distant in time and overvalue rewards if they are more immediate. Further, we compared performance between short-term investors (i.e., day-traders) vs. long-term investors.

Methods

Using an online survey, we invited 144 Bitcoin holders to answer temporal discounting questionnaires dealing with money (“Which do you prefer, that you get right now 20 USD in cash or 100 USD in a month?”) and Bitcoin (“Which do you prefer, that you get right now 0.1 or 1 Bitcoin in a month?”).

Results

Analysis demonstrated no significant differences between temporal discounting for money and Bitcoin. However, and critically, higher temporal discounting for both money and Bitcoin was observed in short-term investors compared with long-term investors. In a similar vein, significant positive correlations were observed between day trading and temporal discounting for both money and Bitcoin.

Discussion

These findings demonstrate how Bitcoin holders with short-term time horizons tend to prioritize immediate rewards over larger but delayed rewards. Future research can assess the neural basis of temporal discounting for cryptocurrencies.
Influence of glutamatergic and GABAergic neurotransmission on obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: Kaczmarski Piotr , Sochal Marcin , Strzelecki Dominik , Białasiewicz Piotr , Gabryelska Agata
Published: July 2023

Glutamate and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) are the two main neurotransmitters in the human brain. The balance between their excitatory and inhibitory functions is crucial for maintaining the brain’s physiological functions. Disturbance of glutamatergic or GABAergic neurotransmission leads to serious health problems including neurodegeneration, affective and sleep disorders. Both GABA and glutamate are involved in the control of the sleep–wake cycle. The disturbances in their function may cause sleep and sleep-related disorders. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common sleep respiratory disorder and is characterized by repetitive collapse of the upper airway resulting in intermittent hypoxia and sleep fragmentation. The complex pathophysiology of OSA is the basis of the development of numerous comorbid diseases. There is emerging evidence that GABA and glutamate disturbances may be involved in the pathogenesis of OSA, as well as its comorbidities. Additionally, the GABA/glutamate targeted pharmacotherapy may also influence the course of OSA, which is important in the implementation of wildly used drugs including benzodiazepines, anesthetics, and gabapentinoids. In this review, we summarize current knowledge on the influence of disturbances in glutamatergic and GABAergic neurotransmission on obstructive sleep apnea.
Efficacy, safety and tolerability of very low-calorie ketogenic diet in obese women with fibromyalgia: a pilot interventional study
Authors: Ciaffi Jacopo , Lisi Lucia , Mari Anna , Mancarella Luana , Brusi Veronica , Pignatti Federica , Ricci Susanna , Vitali Giorgia , Stefanelli Nicola , Assirelli Elisa , Neri Simona , Naldi Susanna , Faldini Cesare , Ursini Francesco
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Obesity can worsen fibromyalgia (FM) and very low-calorie ketogenic diet (VLCKD) is a potential therapeutic option for diseases that share clinical and pathophysiological features with FM. In this pilot interventional study, we investigated the effects of VLCKD in obese women with FM.

Methods

Female patients with FM and a body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30  kg/m2 were eligible for VLCKD. The ketogenic phase (T0 to T8) was followed by progressive reintroduction of carbohydrates (T8 to T20). Changes in BMI, Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), EuroQol 5D (EQ-5D) and 36-item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) were evaluated. A change of 14% in FIQ was considered clinically relevant. The longitudinal association between BMI and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) was assessed using generalized estimating equations.

Results

Twenty women were enrolled. Two discontinued the intervention. The mean age of the 18 patients who reached T20 was 51.3  years and mean BMI was 37.2  kg/m2. All patients lost weight during the first period of VLCKD and this achievement was maintained at T20. Mean BMI decreased from 37.2  kg/m2 at T0 to 34.8  kg/m2 at T4, 33.5  kg/m2 at T8 and 32.1  kg/m2 at T20 (p < 0.001). A significant reduction of mean FIQ from 61.7 at T0 to 37.0 at T4 and to 38.7 at T8 (p < 0.001) was observed and it was maintained at T20 with a mean FIQ of 39.1 (p = 0.002). Similar results were obtained for HADS, EQ-5D and SF-36. Analysing each participant, the reduction of FIQ was clinically meaningful in 16 patients (89%) at T4, in 13 (72%) at T8 and in 14 (78%) at T20. No significant association was observed between change in BMI and improvement of the PROs over time. Adverse effects were mild and transient. No major safety concerns emerged.

Conclusion

These are the first data on the efficacy of VLCKD in FM. All patients achieved improvement in different domains of the disease, which was maintained also after carbohydrate reintroduction. Our results suggest that ketosis might exert beneficial effects in FM beyond the rapid weight loss.

Clinical trial registration

This trial is registered on ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT05848544.
Angiopoietin-2 expression and its relationship with lymphangiogenesis and clinicopathological characteristics in cutaneous malignant melanoma
Authors: Zheng Wei , Ju Wei , Yang Xi-Hu , Yan Zhi-Xin
Published: July 2023

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate angiopoietin-2 (Ang-2/ANGPT2) expression and its relationship with lymphangiogenesis and clinicopathological characteristics in cutaneous malignant melanoma (CMM).

Methods

Gene expression differences between metastatic melanoma and melanoma in situ in 472 patients from the TCGA database were analyzed. The target gene Ang-2 was screened. A clinical study was conducted to analyze the correlation between Ang-2 expression in CMM and tumor-associated lymphangiogenesis. A total of 42 patients with primary CMM who underwent extended tumor resection procedures at the Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University were included in this study. Clinical data (gender, age, lymph node metastasis, Breslow thickness, and clinical stage) were collected. The expression levels of both Ang-2 and lymphatic vessel endothelial hyaluronan receptor-1 (LYVE-1) proteins were detected by immunohistochemistry (IHC). Lymphatic vascular density (LVD) was counted by using LYVE-1 to label lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) in peritumoral and intratumoral areas per high-magnification field of view. Statistical analysis was performed using the Pearson correlation test and Student’s t-test.

Results

Using the TCGA database, it was found that the gene expression level of Ang-2 in 368 cases of metastatic melanoma was significantly higher than that in 104 cases of melanoma in situ. Correlation analysis showed a significant relationship between Ang-2 and LYVE-1, and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 3(VEGFR3) expression, respectively, in CMM. Moreover, the optimal cutoff value of survival analysis showed that high Ang-2 expression in CMM had a worse prognosis, based on data from the TCGA database. Our research showed that Ang-2 was more highly expressed in the group of patients with lymph node metastasis and in the group of stage 3C-4 patients than in the group of patients with no lymph node metastasis and in the group of stage 0-3B patients. Our research also showed that LVD in the group of patients with lymph node metastasis and in the group of stage 3C-4 patients was significantly higher than that in the group of no lymph node metastasis and in the group of stage 0-3B patients, respectively. Breslow thickness also correlated with Ang-2 expression and LVD. Ang-2 expression was not related to sex or age. Ang-2 expression was obviously correlated with LVD.

Conclusion

An evaluation of Ang-2 expression and LVD can be used to predict the risk of tumor lymphatic metastasis and determine the prognosis of CMM. These results may also provide a new clinical treatment strategy for CMM.
Delayed chylopericardium after radical surgery for esophageal cancer: a case report
Authors: Yang Pengjie , Han Rui , Zhu Benben , Wu Yu , Han Bater
Published: July 2023

Background

Postoperative chylpericardium is a rare clinical disease that often manifests as chest tightness, shortness of breathdyspnea, and other symptoms of pericardial tamponade. The etiological spectrum of chylopericardium is complex, but the disease is mainly idiopathic. Chylopericardium caused by thoracic surgery is rarely reported, both at home and abroad.

Case summary

We report a case of a 65-year-old male patient who developed chylopericardium after thoracoabdominal combined incision and partial esophagogastric anastomosis plus lymph node dissection for 1 month. After pericardiocentesis and drainage, low-fat enteral nutrition, and parenteral nutrition, the patient was cured. Based on this case, this article reviews the literature on the diagnosis and treatment of chylopericardium after thoracic surgery.

Conclusion

In conclusion, thoracic surgery (excluding cardiac surgery) can cause delayed chylopericardium. This condition is rarely reported in China, and only a few cases have been reported abroad. Thus, the diagnosis is likely to be missed or misdiagnosed. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to reduce patient discomfort as much as possible.
Circadian rhythm as a key player in cancer progression as well as a therapeutic target in HER2-positive advanced gastric cancer treatment
Authors: Wang Shihao , Khan Suliman , Nabi Ghulam , Li Hong-Yu
Published: July 2023

Gastric cancer is one of the most common cancer types with less than one year prognosis in metastatic disease, which poses a huge disease burden. One of the key players in poor prognosis is human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), which also contributes to the pathogenesis of HER2-positive advanced gastric cancer. Trastuzumab is used as first-line chemotherapy that targets the expression of HER2, however, trastuzumab resistance is an inevitable major problem. To overcome this problem, readjustment of the circadian system may play a crucial role, as dysregulation in the expression of circadian clock genes has been observed in tumors. Therefore, pharmacological modulation of clock components can be considered for better efficacy of trastuzumab. In this review, we discuss the association of circadian clock with cancer progression, development, and treatment. Metformin-based chronotherapy can disrupt BMAL1–CLOCK–PER1–HK2 axis, thereby affecting glycolysis oscillation to overcome trastuzumab resistance in HER2-positive advanced gastric cancer.
Treatment of immunoglobulin-resistant kawasaki disease: a Bayesian network meta-analysis of different regimens
Authors: Pan Yan , Fan Qihong , Hu Luoyi
Published: July 2023

Background

This study aimed to gather evidence from clinical trials on the efficacy and safety of the available treatments for intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG)-resistant Kawasaki disease (KD) in children.

Methods

This work adopted the Newcastle–Ottawa scale to analyse the quality of the enrolled articles. A network meta-analysis was performed using clinical trials that compared drugs used to treat IVIG-resistant KD. Aggregate Data Drug Information System software v.1.16.5 was employed to analyse whether infliximab, second IVIG infusions, and intravenous pulse methylprednisolone (IVMP) were safe and effective.

Results

Ten studies, involving 704 patients with IVIG-resistant KD, were identified and analysed. Overall, infliximab exhibited remarkable antipyretic activity compared with the second IVIG infusions (2.46, 1.00–6.94). According to the drug rank, infliximab was the best option against IVIG-resistant KD. Regarding adverse effects, the infliximab group was more prone to hepatomegaly. A second IVIG infusion was more likely to result in haemolytic anaemia. IVMP treatment was more susceptible to bradycardia, hyperglycaemia, hypertension, and hypothermia. In addition, infliximab, IVMP, and the second IVIG infusions showed no significant differences in the risk of developing a coronary artery aneurysm (CAA).

Conclusion

Infliximab was the best option against IVIG-resistant KD, and IVMP, infliximab, and second IVIG infusions have not significant differences of prevent CAA in patients with IVIG-resistant KD.

Systematic Review Registration

Identifier: https://osf.io/3894y.
Advances in natural compound-based nanomedicine and the interaction with gut microbiota in ulcerative colitis therapy
Authors: Zhang Jinlan , Sun Shuhui , Chen Huan , Feng Yifan , Li Ying , Dong Zhengqi
Published: July 2023

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disorder of the large intestine. Previous studies have indicated that the gut microbiota plays an important role in the triggers, development, and treatment response of UC. Natural active molecules and their nanoformulations show huge potential for treating UC. The nanoparticles can regulate the gut microbiota and metabolites, whereas gut microbiota-mediated effects on nanomedicines can also bring additional therapeutic benefits. Therefore, this review aims to integrate current research on natural active molecule-based nanomedicines for UC therapy and their interaction with the gut microbiota. Here, this discussion focuses on the effects and functions of gut microbiota and metabolites in UC. The use of active molecules and the nanoformulation from natural compounds for UC therapy have been provided. The interactions between the gut microbiota and nanomedicines are derived from natural products and elucidate the possible biological mechanisms involved. Finally, the challenges and future directions for enhancing the therapeutic efficacy of nanomedicine in treating UC are proposed.
Filterless frequency 32-tupling millimeter-wave generation based on two cascaded dual-parallel Mach–Zehnder modulators
Authors: Chen Xinqiao , Dai Siyuan , Li Zhihan , Liu Xiaorui , Chen Xu , Xiao Huaibao
Published: July 2023

This study proposed a novel scheme for filterless frequency 32-tupling millimeter wave (MMW) generation based on two cascaded dual-parallel Mach–Zehnder modulators (DPMZMs). When the MZMs are biased on a maximum transmission point and the phase difference of the radio frequency (RF) driving voltage between the two MZMs in DPMZM is π/2, the DPMZM can be used as a quadrupler, which can generate ±4n-order optical sidebands. When the phase difference of the RF driving voltage between the two DPMZMs is π/4, the two cascaded DPMZMs can be used as an octupler, which can generate ±8n-order optical sidebands. After the ±8th-order optical sidebands are suppressed by adjusting the modulation index of MZMs, the center carrier is suppressed by a polarization multiplexing structure, and the ±8n (n > 2) sidebands are ignored because their amplitudes are very small. The main optical components remaining in the output of the two cascaded DPMZMs are ±16th-order optical sidebands, which are beaten in the photodetector to obtain frequency 32-tupling MMW. The theoretical and experimental optical sideband suppression ratios (OSSRs) and radio frequency spurious suppression ratios (RFSSRs) are 53.7 dB and 53.53 dB and 47.7 dB and 47.33 dB, respectively. The experimental and theoretical analysis is consistent, which verifies the feasibility of the scheme. The influence on the OSSR and RFSSR of the generated signals by the extinction ratio and DC bias drift of the MZMs, the initial phases and the amplitudes of the RF drive signal, and the azimuth of the polarization controller (PC) are investigated.
Sustainable valorization of co-products from asparagus cultivation by obtaining bioactive compounds
Authors: Alcaide Isabel Viera , Hamdi Amel , Guilleín-Bejarano Rafael , Jiménez-Araujo Ana , Rodríguez-Arcos Rocío
Published: July 2023

Asparagus cultivation generates every year a significant amount of by-products that consist of root and frond. Leaving these residues on the fields after harvesting negatively affects the following asparagus crops, since they release autotoxic (allelopathic) substances into the soil, whose accumulation causes that asparagus yields gradually decrease over the years, becoming an unprofitable crop in a period of about 10 to 15 years. This phenomenon is known as decay and forces the entire asparagus plantation to be lifted (abandoned). On the other hand, once a certain plantation has been lifted, it is not profitable to immediately re-plant new asparagus plants, since the yields that are achieved are never more than half of normal ones. It is necessary to wait an average of 4 or 5 years before replanting asparagus in these lands. This phenomenon is known as the replanting problem, and causes the need to continually search for new land for growing asparagus. Another added problem for farmers is that the elimination of those plant residues from asparagus cultivation entails significant economic costs. For all these reasons, it is essential to seek alternatives for the management of that waste that improve the sustainability of the crop within the scope of the circular economy. In this context, this work proposes the valorization of asparagus by-products by obtaining bioactive compounds. Main objectives of the present work include: i) phytochemical analyses of asparagus fronds and roots; ii) obtaining bioactive extracts, with distinct technological and nutritional functionalities, by using an environmentally sustainable extraction process, easy to implement in the practice of a food industry and with methods compatible with food use. Characterization of asparagus by-products shown that fronds had an average flavonoid content of 2.637 ± 0.014 g/Kg fresh weight, which is up to 5-6 times higher than that of the spears; and roots contained up to 10 times more saponins (2.25 g/Kg fresh weight), which were accompanied by lower quantities of phenolic acids (368 mg/Kg fresh weight). Statistical analysis revealed that those phytochemical contents were mainly determined by location and phase of the vegetative cycle, whereas genetic factors did not significantly influence them. Based on the results of the present work, the proposal for the recovery and valorization of asparagus by-products is based on obtaining two bioactive extracts, the first being an antioxidant extract enriched in flavonoids, with an average yield of 10.7 g/Kg fresh frond and a flavonoid richness of 17%; and the second, a saponins extract with an average yield of 10.3 g/Kg fresh root and a richness of 51%. These natural extracts have great techno-functional potential in the agri-food industry and some of them are already being tested as additives in the preparation of soups, breads and meat products.
Show and tell advocacy: how advocates convince policymakers by showing them the work they do
Authors: Sparks Aaron C. , Arora Sara , Cason Nicole
Published: July 2023

Show and tell advocacy is the lobbying tactic that many advocates use to promote their interests and build relationships with policymakers. This tactic has a long history, for example John Muir took President Roosevelt on a camping trip to lobby for the president's support in improving management of Yosemite. Many organizations engage in similar practices today. However, it has not been well-described in the literature. In this paper, we highlight a few cases to draw attention to this activity and offer several theoretical explanations for why it may be successful. We offer this paper as a call to practitioners and academics to do more collaborative research that unpacks different lobbying strategies so that we can study their effectiveness which is important for grassroots organizations operating on tight budgets and for academic research to better understand influence and political power.
Mother-infant interaction context matters for verbal and non-verbal parental mentalization: an initial portrait of associations between parental embodied mentalizing, mind-mindedness, and maternal characteristics in a structured and unstructured context
Authors: Gagné Karine , Lemelin Jean-Pascal , Tarabulsy George
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Interest in studying the parental embodied mentalizing (PEM), which refers to implicit and non-verbal processes of parental mentalization, is relatively recent. Therefore, little is known about how PEM, in complementarity with the verbal parental mentalization, is associated with maternal characteristics regarding mother-infant interaction contexts. This exploratory study aimed to investigate the associations between the non-verbal and verbal dimensions of parental mentalization- PEM and mind-mindedness, respectively, - in relation to a wide spectrum of parental characteristics in different interactive mother-infant contexts (toys and no toys).

Methods

Among a sample of 107 mother-infant dyads at moderate psychosocial risk, mothers’ sociodemographic information (age, education, and income), psychological characteristics (depression and anxiety), cognitions (self-efficacy and perceived maternal impact), and attitudes (overprotection and parental warmth) were assessed via self-report questionnaires when the infant was 4 and 8 months old. The PEM and mind-mindedness were evaluated through observation made during a videorecorded sequence of mother-infant interaction in a context of free play with and without toys at 8 months of age.

Results

The results showed distinct associations between PEM and mind-mindedness regarding maternal characteristics: PEM was associated with the mother’s age, education, anxiety and maternal warmth, whereas mind-mindedness was related to cognitions. Both were linked to family income. Regarding mother-infant interaction contexts (toys vs. no toys), the results indicate that the capacity to verbally and non-verbally mentalize differs.

Discussion

These findings shed light on distinctive associations between non-verbal and verbal parental mentalization in relation to certain maternal characteristics, and highlight that the mother-infant interaction context may play an important role in the expression of maternal mentalizing capacity.
Burnout, depression, and suicidal ideation among physicians before and during COVID-19 and the contribution of perfectionism to physicians’ suicidal risk
Authors: Kleinhendler-Lustig Dafna , Hamdan Sami , Mendlovic Joseph , Gvion Yari
Published: July 2023

Objectives

There is limited data regarding the prevalence of suicidal risk among physicians during COVID-19, and the risk factors relating to it. Dominant risk factors for suicide among physicians are depression and burnout. Maladaptive perfectionism may also serve as a profound risk factor for suicidality among physicians and may aggravate symptoms of distress under the challenges of COVID-19. This study aims to evaluate current suicidal risk, suicidal ideation, depression, and burnout before and during COVID-19 among physicians in Israel, and to identify the best sets of correlates between perfectionism and burnout, depression and suicidal ideation, during these time periods.

Methods

A sample of 246 Israeli physicians (160 before COVID-19 and 86 during COVID-19) completed online surveys assessing lifetime suicidal risk, suicidal ideation during the last year and current suicidal ideation, depression, burnout symptoms and maladaptive perfectionism.

Results

More than one-fifth of the sample (21.9%) reported high suicidal risk (Lifetime suicidal behaviors). More than one-fourth (27.2%) reported suicidal ideation during the last 12 months; and 13.4% reported suicidal ideation during the last 3 months. In addition, more than one-third (34.6%) exhibited moderate–severe levels of depressive symptoms and more than a half of the sample reported burnout symptoms. Maladaptive perfectionism was positively correlated with current suicidal ideation, burnout, and depression. Moderated serial mediation analysis demonstrated indirect effect of perfectionism on suicidal ideation by its impact on burnout and depression only during COVID-19. Before COVID-19, physicians were more likely to experience depressive symptoms.

Conclusion

Physicians in Israel are at increased risk for depression and suicidal ideation, regardless of the COVID-19 pandemic. Maladaptive perfectionism was found to be a risk factor for burnout, depression, and suicidal ideation. During the first waves of the pandemic, physicians were less likely to experience depressive symptoms. However, among physicians who were characterized with high maladaptive perfectionism, depression served as a significant risk factor for suicidal ideation during the pandemic, which places these individuals at increased risk for suicidality. These results highlight the importance of implementing intervention programs among physicians to reduce suicidal risk and to better identify rigid perfectionism and depressive symptoms.
Association of food insecurity and sleep difficulty among 189,619 school-going adolescents: a study from the global in-school students survey
Authors: Osei Bonsu Emmanuel , Afetor Maxwell , Munkaila Lambongang , Okwei Reforce , Nachibi Stephen Uwumbordo , Adjei Benjamin Noble , Frimpong Eric , Arimiyaw Abdul Wahid , Adu Collins , Peprah Prince
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Adolescents’ sleep disturbances are associated with chronic and dramatic physical, emotional, and mental development and school performance consequences. Although food insecurity could significantly contribute to these effects, few studies have explored the effect of food insecurity on sleep disturbances among adolescents. The study aimed to examine the relationship between adolescents’ food insecurity and sleep disturbance.

Methods

Data on 189,619 adolescents were drawn from the cross-sectional global adolescent health surveys conducted between 2015 and 2018 in 35 countries and territories. Univariate and multivariable multinomial regression models were fitted to examine the hypothesized associations.

Results

Overall pooled prevalence of moderate [45.2% (95%CI = 43–47)] and severe [5.8% (95%CI = 5–6)] food insecurity levels were reported. About [52.6% (95%CI = 51–54)] moderate and [8.6% (95%CI = 8–9)] severe worry-induced sleep disturbances were found. Considering the fully adjusted multinomial logistic model, moderate food insecurity was significantly associated with moderate (AOR = 1.70 CI = 1.59–1.81; p < 0.0001) and severe (AOR = 1.63 CI = 1.42–1.87; p < 0.0001) sleep disturbances. Also, adolescents reporting severe levels of food insecurity had moderate (AOR = 1.88 CI = 1.68–2.11; p < 0.0001) and severe (AOR = 4.07 CI = 4.74–6.11; p < 0.0001) sleep disturbances. Females and those aged between 15 and 17 years and 18 or more were at higher risk of moderate and severe sleep disturbances in the context of food insecurity.

Conclusion

Reducing food insecurity could be an effective policy strategy for enhancing adolescent sleep quality.