bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New Insights in Hydrogels for Periodontal Regeneration
Authors: Santos Mafalda S. , dos Santos Alexandra B. , Carvalho Marta S.
Published: November 2023

Periodontitis is a destructive inflammatory disease characterized by microbial infection that damages the tissues supporting the tooth (alveolar bone, gingiva, periodontal ligament, and cementum), ultimately resulting in the loss of teeth. The ultimate goal of periodontal therapy is to achieve the regeneration of all of the periodontal tissues. Thus, tissue engineering approaches have been evolving from simple membranes or grafts to more complex constructs. Hydrogels are highly hydrophilic polymeric networks with the ability to simulate the natural microenvironment of cells. In particular, hydrogels offer several advantages when compared to other forms of scaffolds, such as tissue mimicry and sustained drug delivery. Moreover, hydrogels can maintain a moist environment similar to the oral cavity. Hydrogels allow for precise placement and retention of regenerative materials at the defect site, minimizing the potential for off-target effects and ensuring that the treatment is focused on the specific defect site. As a mechanism of action, the sustained release of drugs presented by hydrogels allows for control of the disease by reducing the inflammation and attracting host cells to the defect site. Several therapeutic agents, such as antibiotics, anti-inflammatory and osteogenic drugs, have been loaded into hydrogels, presenting effective benefits in periodontal health and allowing for sustained drug release. This review discusses the causes and consequences of periodontal disease, as well as the advantages and limitations of current treatments applied in clinics. The main components of hydrogels for periodontal regeneration are discussed focusing on their different characteristics, outcomes, and strategies for drug delivery. Novel methods for the fabrication of hydrogels are highlighted, and clinical studies regarding the periodontal applications of hydrogels are reviewed. Finally, limitations in current research are discussed, and potential future directions are proposed.
Illusion as a Cognitive Clash Rooted in Perception
Authors: Zavagno Daniele
Published: November 2023

Illusions are important ‘tools’ in the study of perceptual processes. Their conception is typically linked to the notion of veridicality in a dual-world framework, in which we either see the macro physical world as it is (ecological approaches) or we derive a faithful representation (cognitive approaches) of it. Within such theoretical views, illusions are errors caused by inadequate sensory information (because of poor quality, insufficient quantity, contradictory, etc.). From a phenomenological stance, however, experiencing an illusion does not relate to the physical quality of the distal or proximal stimulus; rather, it depends on a comparison between the actual perception and what one believes should be perceived given the knowledge s/he has gained about the physical stimulus. Within such a framework, illusions are still considered of extreme importance in the study of the processes underpinning perception, but they are not conceived as errors. They represent instead a cognitive clash between actual perception and hypothesized perception based on some sort of comparison, thus also showing their potential as a tool for studying the underpinnings of cognitive processes.
Processing of the Ti25Ta25Nb3Sn Experimental Alloy Using ECAP Process for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Bortolini Celso , Carobolante João Pedro Aquiles , Timokhina Ilana , Caporalli Filho Angelo , Rosifini Alves Ana Paula
Published: November 2023

The development of titanium-β alloys for biomedical applications is associated with the addition of alloying elements or the use of processing techniques to obtain suitable bulk properties. The Ti25Ta25Nb3Sn alloy has been highlighted for its mechanical properties and biocompatibility. To further enhance the properties of titanium alloys for biomedical applications, equal channel angular pressing (ECAP) was used due to its capability of refining the microstructure of the alloy, leading to improved mechanical properties without significant changes in Young’s modulus. This study aims to evaluate the impact of ECAP on the microstructure of the Ti-25Sn-25Nb-3Nb alloy and investigate the correlation between the microstructure, mechanical properties, and corrosive behavior. Grain refinement was achieved after four ECAP passes, with an average grain diameter of 395 nm and a non-homogeneous structure, and microhardness was slightly increased from 193 to 212 HV after four ECAP passes. The thermomechanical aspects of the ECAP processing have led to the formation of a metastable α″ phase during the first two passes, while after four passes, the structure was composed only of the β phase. The corrosion resistance of the alloy was increased after four passes, presenting the best results in terms of the improvement of passivation corrosion density.
Adaptive Mesh Refinement for Trailing Vortices Generated by Propellers in Interaction with Slipstream Obstacles
Authors: Geese Jan , Kimmerl Julian , Nadler Marc , Abdel-Maksoud Moustafa
Published: November 2023

The investigation of cavitating trailing vortices emerging from marine propellers is of great interest in the industry. With the help of computational fluid dynamics (CFD), studying the cavitating trailing vortices may be facilitated. However, limitations in computational power raise the necessity to execute numerical simulations as efficiently as possible. The time-efficient simulation of cavitating trailing vortices interacting with rigid bodies is especially challenging due to the continuous change of cavity locations. This study investigates the usability, capability, and practicability of automatic adaptive refinement at every calculation time step for transient Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) and large eddy CFD simulations of the cavitating tip and hub vortices, utilizing the Schnerr–Sauer cavitation model, in the presence of a rudder located in the propeller slipstream and for an isolated propeller, with additional focus on the computational effort necessary for using high frequency updating adaptive mesh refinement (AMR). It is found that AMR is suitable for resolving cavities with relative motion to the propeller and in interaction with slipstream obstacles. However, the computation time is significantly increased, which renders this method useful only if a classic AMR is not possible due to geometrical limitations. Even in the cases that benefit from the automated AMR, numerical instabilities may lead to unphysical pressure fluctuations, which reduce the suitability of the method for the evaluation of underwater radiated noise.
Numerical Study of Turbulent Wake of Offshore Wind Turbines and Retention Time of Larval Dispersion
Authors: Ajmi Souha , Boutet Martial , Bennis Anne-Claire , Dauvin Jean-Claude , Pezy Jean-Philippe
Published: November 2023

Offshore Wind Farm (OWF) foundations are considered to have a potential impact on the larval dispersion of benthic species. This study focused on OWFs’ impacts on larval dispersion, considering factors such as the foundation type, flow velocity, flow direction, and release type using numerical modelling. At the scale of monopile and gravity-based foundations, a combination of two numerical models was used: the Eulerian model (OpenFOAM), solving the 3D Navier–Stokes equations for computing the hydrodynamics, and the Lagrangian model (Ichthyop), solving the advection–diffusion equation for the larval dispersion simulations. The validation model tests were evaluated with experimental data as a first step of the study. Accurate results were achieved, yielding a Turbulent Kinetic Energy (TKE) Root-Mean-Squared Error (RMSE) in the range of 6.82–8.27 ×10−5kg/m·s2 within the refined mesh, with a coefficient of determination (R2) approaching unity. For the second phase, more-realistic simulations were modelled. Those simulations demonstrated turbulent wakes downstream of the foundations and horseshoe vortex formations near the bottom. A larval dispersion was simulated using passive particles’ motion. Vertical flumes in the wake with particles experiencing both upward and downward motions, impacting the fall velocities of the particles, were observed. The influence of gravity-based foundations might lead to a stepping-stone effect with a retention time of up to 9 min, potentially allowing the settlement of competent larvae. In a similar geometry with an angular spring tide velocity, 0.4% of particles were trapped.
Discrete Element Analysis of Ice-Induced Vibrations of Offshore Wind Turbines in Level Ice
Authors: Long Xue , Liu Lu , Ji Shunying
Published: November 2023

Self-excited vibrations of offshore structures interacting with sea ice, characterized by low frequency and high amplitudes, pose significant hazards to offshore wind turbines (OWTs) in cold seas. This study employs the discrete element method (DEM) with a parallel bonding model to investigate the interaction between sea ice and OWTs. Two bond-failure models are compared, with the results showing that the model considering stiffness softening and fracture energy provides better alignment with field data in the Bohai Sea. The DEM is employed to analyze the ice-induced vibration of OWTs under varying ice velocities, revealing that brittle failure of sea ice occurs at higher ice speeds, leading to random structure vibration. At slower ice speeds, both brittle and ductile sea ice failure modes result in self-excited vibrations. This suggests a strong connection between self-excited vibration and the brittle-ductile failure of sea ice, influenced by the relative speeds between ice and the structure. This study employs the DEM to elucidate the mechanism of self-excited vibrations in OWTs from the perspective of brittle-ductile sea ice failure. The results show that the DEM model accurately describes the brittle-ductile transition in sea ice failure, and that the structural motion aligns well with field measurements.
Ensemble Neural Networks for the Development of Storm Surge Flood Modeling: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Nezhad Saeid Khaksari , Barooni Mohammad , Velioglu Sogut Deniz , Weaver Robert J.
Published: November 2023

This review paper focuses on the use of ensemble neural networks (ENN) in the development of storm surge flood models. Storm surges are a major concern in coastal regions, and accurate flood modeling is essential for effective disaster management. Neural network (NN) ensembles have shown great potential in improving the accuracy and reliability of such models. This paper presents an overview of the latest research on the application of NNs in storm surge flood modeling and covers the principles and concepts of ENNs, various ensemble architectures, the main challenges associated with NN ensemble algorithms, and their potential benefits in improving flood forecasting accuracy. The main part of this paper pertains to the techniques used to combine a mixed set of predictions from multiple NN models. The combination of these models can lead to improved accuracy, robustness, and generalization performance compared to using a single model. However, generating neural network ensembles also requires careful consideration of the trade-offs between model diversity, model complexity, and computational resources. The ensemble must balance these factors to achieve the best performance. The insights presented in this review paper are particularly relevant for researchers and practitioners working in coastal regions where accurate storm surge flood modeling is critical.
Heat Integration of Liquid Hydrogen-Fueled Hybrid Electric Ship Propulsion System
Authors: Jung Wongwan , Lee Jinkwang , Chang Daejun
Published: November 2023

This study introduced the methodology for integrating ethylene glycol/water mixture (GW) systems which supply heat energy to the liquid hydrogen (LH2) fuel gas supply system (FGSS), and manage the temperature conditions of the battery system. All systems were designed and simulated based on the power demand of a 2 MW class platform supply vessel assumed as the target ship. The LH2 FGSS model is based on Aspen HYSYS V11 and the cell model that makes up the battery system is implemented based on a Thevenin model with four parameters. Through three different simulation cases, the integrated GW system significantly reduced electric power consumption for the GW heater during ship operations, achieving reductions of 1.38% (Case 1), 16.29% (Case 2), and 27.52% (Case 3). The energy-saving ratio showed decreases of 1.86% (Case 1), 21.01% (Case 2), and 33.80% (Case 3) in overall energy usage within the GW system. Furthermore, an examination of the battery system’s thermal management in the integrated GW system demonstrated stable cell temperature control within ±3 K of the target temperature, making this integration a viable solution for maintaining normal operating temperatures, despite relatively higher fluctuations compared to an independent GW system.
Changes of the Coastal Zones Due to Climate Change
Authors: Anton Iulia , Paranunzio Roberta , Gharbia Salem
Published: November 2023

“Changes of the Coastal Zones Due to Climate Change” explores the complex relationship between coastal climate change and sea dynamics while placing the research within a broader context of climate change and its effects on coastal ecosystems [...]
Neural Network-Based Adaptive Sigmoid Circular Path-Following Control for Underactuated Unmanned Surface Vessels under Ocean Disturbances
Authors: Ren Yi , Zhang Lei , Huang Wenbin , Chen Xi
Published: November 2023

This study describes a circular curve path-following controller for an underactuated unmanned surface vessel (USV) experiencing unmodeled dynamics and external disturbances. Initially, a three degrees of freedom kinematic model of the USV is proposed for marine environmental disturbances and internal model parameter deterrence. Then, the circular path guidance law and controller are designed to ensure that the USV can move along the desired path. During the design process, a proportional derivative (PD)-based sigmoid fuzzy function is applied to adjust the guidance law. To accommodate unknown system dynamics and perturbations, a radial basis function neural network and adaptive updating laws are adopted to design the surge motion and yaw motion controllers, estimating the unmodeled hydrodynamic coefficients and external disturbances. Theoretical analysis shows that tracking errors are uniformly ultimately bounded (UUB), and the closed-loop system is asymptotically stable. Finally, the simulation results show that the proposed controller can achieve good control effects while ensuring tracking accuracy and demonstrating satisfactory disturbance rejection capability.
Nonparametric Modeling and Control of Ship Steering Motion Based on Local Gaussian Process Regression
Authors: Ouyang Zi-Lu , Zou Zao-Jian , Zou Lu
Published: November 2023

This paper aims to study the nonparametric modeling and control of ship steering motion. Firstly, the black box response model is derived based on the Nomoto model. Then, the establishment of a nonparametric response model and prediction of ship steering motion are realized by applying the local Gaussian process regression (LGPR) algorithm. To assess the performance of LGPR, two cases are studied, including a Mariner class vessel by using simulation data and a KVLCC2 tanker model by using experimental data. The results reveal that the response model identified by LGPR presents good prediction accuracy and low computational burden. Finally, the identified response model is used as the basis for developing the ship heading controller, and the results demonstrate that the proposed controller is able to achieve good dynamic performance.
Paleoenvironmental Evaluation Using an Integrated Microfacies Evidence and Triangle Model Diagram: A Case Study from Khurmala Formation, Northeastern Iraq
Authors: Abid Ali Ashoor , Salih Namam Muhammed , Martyushev Dmitriy A.
Published: November 2023

The sequence of the Khurmala Formation located in northeastern Iraq was measured and sampled to evaluate its paleoenvironmental features, including sedimentological and microfacies analyses. The studied formation was analyzed under an optical microscope and was dominated by three main types of microfacies: coralligenous–algal wackestone, foraminiferal–peloidal packstone, and foraminiferal–peloidal grainstone. These hosted microfacies in the Khurmala Formation rarely contain a non-geniculate algae that insufficient for complete reef-building as a crest, but among the common algae, there are calcareous geniculate and green algae associated with benthic foraminifera and a minor component of planktonic foraminifera in the basin due to high-energetic open shallow-water environmental conditions during the deposition of the Khurmala Formation. The relative percentages of foraminifera, including both benthic and planktonic, plotted on triangular diagrams revealed a graphic indicator of paleoenvironment analyses. Detailed examination and analyses for microfacies, new findings of calcareous green algae (Acicularia and Clypeina), and microfacies analyses based on the triangle method and standard facies zones, denote that the upper part of the Khurmala Formation was richer in fined grain and Acicularia green algae, reflecting lower energy conditions than during deposition in the lower part of the formation, which was represented by algal wackestone microfacies and dominated by Clypeina green algae. In summary, these fluctuations in facies/microfacies changes, the appearance of new green algae, and different percentages of foraminiferal content are linked to the global sea level fluctuation that occurred during the Paleocene–Eocene interval.
Navigating Energy Efficiency: A Multifaceted Interpretability of Fuel Oil Consumption Prediction in Cargo Container Vessel Considering the Operational and Environmental Factors
Authors: Handayani Melia Putri , Kim Hyunju , Lee Sangbong , Lee Jihwan
Published: November 2023

In the maritime industry, optimizing vessel fuel oil consumption is crucial for improving energy efficiency and reducing shipping emissions. However, effectively utilizing operational data to advance performance monitoring and optimization remains a challenge. An XGBoost Regressor model was developed using a comprehensive dataset, delivering strong predictive performance (R2 = 0.95, MAE = 10.78 kg/h). This predictive model considers operational (controllable) and environmental (uncontrollable) variables, offering insights into complex FOC factors. To enhance interpretability, SHAP analysis is employed, revealing ‘Average Draught (Aft and Fore)’ as the key controllable factor and emphasizing ‘Relative Wind Speed’ as the dominant uncontrollable factor impacting vessel FOC. This research extends to further analysis of the extremely high FOC point, identifying patterns in the Strait of Malacca and the South China Sea. These findings provide region-specific insights, guiding energy efficiency improvement, operational strategy refinement, and sea resistance mitigation. In summary, our study introduces a groundbreaking framework leveraging machine learning and SHAP analysis to advance FOC understanding and enhance maritime decision making, contributing significantly to energy efficiency and operational strategies—a substantial contribution to a responsible shipping performance assessment under tightening regulations.
A Repertoire of the Less Common Clinical Yeasts
Authors: Menu Estelle , Filori Quentin , Dufour Jean-Charles , Ranque Stéphane , L’Ollivier Coralie
Published: November 2023

Invasive fungal diseases are a public health problem. They affect a constantly increasing number of at-risk patients, and their incidence has risen in recent years. These opportunistic infections are mainly due to Candida sp. but less common or rare yeast infections should not be underestimated. These so-called “less common” yeasts include Ascomycota of the genera Candida (excluding the five major Candida species), Magnusiomyces/Saprochaete, Malassezia, and Saccharomyces, and Basidiomycota of the genera Cryptococcus (excluding the Cryptococcus neoformans/gattii complex members), Rhodotorula, and Trichosporon. The aim of this review is to (i) inventory the less common yeasts isolated in humans, (ii) provide details regarding the specific anatomical locations where they have been detected and the clinical characteristics of the resulting infections, and (iii) provide an update on yeast taxonomy. Of the total of 239,890 fungal taxa and their associated synonyms sourced from the MycoBank and NCBI Taxonomy databases, we successfully identified 192 yeasts, including 127 Ascomycota and 65 Basidiomycota. This repertoire allows us to highlight rare yeasts and their tropism for certain anatomical sites and will provide an additional tool for diagnostic management.
Exogenous dsRNA-Induced Silencing of the Phytophthora infestans Elicitin Genes inf1 and inf4 Suppresses Its Pathogenicity on Potato Plants
Authors: Ivanov Artemii A. , Golubeva Tatiana S.
Published: November 2023

Phytophthora infestans, an Oomycete pathogen, has a devastating impact on potato agriculture, leading to the extensive use of chemical fungicides to prevent its outbreaks. Spraying double-stranded RNAs to suppress specific genes of the pathogen via the RNA interference (RNAi) pathway may provide an environmentally friendly alternative to chemicals. However, this novel approach will require various target genes and application strategies to be tested. Using the L4440 backbone, we have designed two plasmids to express dsRNA targeting inf1 and inf4 genes of P. infestans that are known to contribute to the disease development at different stages. The dsRNA produced by the bacteria was tested on potato explants and demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in lesions five days after inoculation compared to water treatment. The study results allow us to consider our approach to be promising for potato late blight control.
An Autochthonous Susceptible Candida auris Clade I Otomycosis Case in Iran
Authors: Ahmadi Bahram , Naeimi Behrouz , Ahmadipour Mohammad Javad , Morovati Hamid , de Groot Theun , Spruijtenburg Bram , Badali Hamid , Meis Jacques F.
Published: November 2023

Candida auris is a newly emerging multidrug-resistant fungal pathogen considered to be a serious global health threat. Due to diagnostic challenges, there is no precise estimate for the prevalence rate of this pathogen in Iran. Since 2019, only six culture-proven C. auris cases have been reported from Iran, of which, five belonged to clade V and one to clade I. Herein, we report a case of otomycosis due to C. auris from 2017 in a 78-year-old man with diabetes mellitus type II without an epidemiological link to other cases or travel history. Short tandem repeat genotyping and whole genome sequencing (WGS) analysis revealed that this isolate belonged to clade I of C. auris (South Asian Clade). The WGS single nucleotide polymorphism calling demonstrated that the C. auris isolate from 2017 is not related to a previously reported clade I isolate from Iran. The presence of this retrospectively recognized clade I isolate also suggests an early introduction from other regions or an autochthonous presence. Although the majority of reported C. auris isolates worldwide are resistant to fluconazole and, to a lesser extent, to echinocandins and amphotericin B, the reported clade I isolate from Iran was susceptible to all antifungal drugs.
A New Benzaldehyde Derivative Exhibits Antiaflatoxigenic Activity against Aspergillus flavus
Authors: Jermnak Usuma , Ngernmeesri Paiboon , Yurayart Chompoonek , Poapolathep Amnart , Udomkusonsri Pareeya , Poapolathep Saranya , Phaochoosak Napasorn
Published: November 2023

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is the most potent naturally occurring carcinogen for humans and animals produced by the common fungus Aspergillus flavus (A. flavus). Aflatoxin (AF) contamination in commodities is a global concern related to the safety of food and feed, and it also impacts the agricultural economy. In this study, we investigated the AFB1-inhibiting activity of a new benzaldehyde derivative, 2-[(2-methylpyridin-3-yl)oxy]benzaldehyde (MPOBA), on A. flavus. It was found that MPOBA inhibited the production of AFB1 by A. flavus, with an IC50 value of 0.55 mM. Moreover, the inhibition of conidiation was also observed at the same concentration. The addition of MPOBA resulted in decreased transcript levels of the aflR gene, which encodes a key regulatory protein for the biosynthesis of AF, and also decreased transcript levels of the global regulator genes veA and laeA. These results suggested that MPOBA has an effect on the regulatory mechanism of the development and differentiation of conidia, leading to the inhibition of AFB1 production. In addition, the cytotoxicity study showed that MPOBA had a very low cytotoxic effect on the Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cell line. Therefore, MPOBA may be a potential compound for developing practically effective agents to control AF contamination.
Genomic Epidemiology Identifies Azole Resistance Due to TR34/L98H in European Aspergillus fumigatus Causing COVID-19-Associated Pulmonary Aspergillosis
Authors: Simmons Benjamin C. , Rhodes Johanna , Rogers Thomas R. , Verweij Paul E. , Abdolrasouli Alireza , Schelenz Silke , Hemmings Samuel J. , Talento Alida Fe , Griffin Auveen , Mansfield Mary , Sheehan David , Bosch Thijs , Fisher Matthew C.
Published: November 2023

Aspergillus fumigatus has been found to coinfect patients with severe SARS-CoV-2 virus infection, leading to COVID-19-associated pulmonary aspergillosis (CAPA). The CAPA all-cause mortality rate is approximately 50% and may be complicated by azole resistance. Genomic epidemiology can help shed light on the genetics of A. fumigatus causing CAPA, including the prevalence of resistance-associated alleles. We present a population genomic analysis of 21 CAPA isolates from four European countries with these isolates compared against 240 non-CAPA A. fumigatus isolates from a wider population. Bioinformatic analysis and antifungal susceptibility testing were performed to quantify resistance and identify possible genetically encoded azole-resistant mechanisms. The phylogenetic analysis of the 21 CAPA isolates showed that they were representative of the wider A. fumigatus population with no obvious clustering. The prevalence of phenotypic azole resistance in CAPA was 14.3% (n = 3/21); all three CAPA isolates contained a known resistance-associated cyp51A polymorphism. The relatively high prevalence of azole resistance alleles that we document poses a probable threat to treatment success rates, warranting the enhanced surveillance of A. fumigatus genotypes in these patients. Furthermore, potential changes to antifungal first-line treatment guidelines may be needed to improve patient outcomes when CAPA is suspected.
Information vs. Presentation: Three Different Approaches to Media Organizations’ Science Communication on Instagram
Authors: Planer Rosanna , Seibert Daniel , Godulla Alexander , Ötting Hannah Lea
Published: November 2023

As science journalism is growing in importance and reader interest, the social media platform Instagram provides new opportunities for media organizations to distribute scientific content. The growing danger of fake news and misinformation, as well as the ongoing pandemic and trends in media consumption patterns, make it increasingly necessary for science journalists to deliver reliable content in a well-designed manner on digital platforms. This study investigates how German media companies and individual journalists inform lay audiences on new publications, findings, and developments in sciences, using the platform Instagram. A representative quantitative content analysis of Instagram posts (n = 2.605) of nine wide-ranging German accounts related to science journalism shows that the three analyzed groups (public service media outlets, private outlets, and individual journalists) pursue significantly different approaches in how they communicate scientific content on Instagram—ranging from informative to entertaining posts—varying in their text length, the complexity of the media elements used, and the tone of voice. The results shed light on a diversification of journalistic approaches to communicating scientific content on Instagram, as well as which approaches seem fruitful. Thereby, the nature of the media organization influences the complexity, design, and purpose of their science communication on Instagram.
The Networked Trolling of Critical Journalists and News Organizations in Iraq
Authors: Al-Rawi Ahmed , Tenove Chris , Klein Peter
Published: November 2023

In this study, we have identified a Twitter network of bad actors mostly affiliated with Iraqi militias that are closely connected to the federal Iraqi government. Using disinformation and threats of legal action, these users often target journalists and news organizations that are critical of them. Three datasets were collected totaling about 16,000 tweets by using 6 Arabic hashtags. We found three major themes: public shaming and personal attacks; legal threats and misinformation accusations; and glorifying Shiite heroism and promoting conspiracies. These bad actors also created a coordinated attack against journalists, news organizations, and human rights activists and even the UN representative in Iraq, Jeanine Plasschaert, falsely accusing her of fabricating the 2021 federal election results.
Chemical Intolerance and Mast Cell Activation: A Suspicious Synchronicity
Authors: Palmer Raymond F. , Dempsey Tania T. , Afrin Lawrence B.
Published: November 2023

Background: Chemical Intolerance (CI) is characterized by intolerances for chemicals, foods, and drugs with multi-system symptoms. As yet, the biomechanism remains unclear. One study reported converging lines of evidence supporting a substantive association between mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS) and CI. The purpose of this study is to (1) confirm a previous report demonstrating that 60% of MCAS patients report CI and (2) examine the parallels between symptoms and intolerances in CI and MCAS. Methods: Five hundred forty-four MCAS patients were assigned a clinical MCAS score using a validated assessment instrument and were assessed for CI using the validated Quick Environmental Exposure Sensitivity Index. Results: Our outcomes confirm the previously published study where the majority of MCAS patients also have CI. There was a clear overlap between various ICD-10 diagnostic categories and CI symptoms, providing further support for a potential shared mechanism. Conclusions: Exposures to pesticides, volatile organic compounds, combustion products, and mold have previously been reported as initiators of CI. However, until recently, little was known about the biological mechanism involved that could explain the multisystem symptoms associated with CI. This paper addresses a newly identified biomechanism for disease, which may underlie a host of “medically unexplained symptoms” triggered by xenobiotics.
A Linear Predictor Based on FTIR Spectral Biomarkers Improves Disease Diagnosis Classification: An Application to Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Condino Francesca , Crocco Maria Caterina , Pirritano Domenico , Petrone Alfredo , Del Giudice Francesco , Guzzi Rita
Published: November 2023

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system that can lead to long-term disability. The diagnosis of MS is not simple and requires many instrumental and clinical tests. Sampling easily collected biofluids using spectroscopic approaches is becoming of increasing interest in the medical field to integrate and improve diagnostic procedures. Here we present a statistical approach where we combine a number of spectral biomarkers derived from the ATR-FTIR spectra of blood plasma samples of healthy control subjects and MS patients, to obtain a linear predictor useful for discriminating between the two groups of individuals. This predictor provides a simple tool in which the contribution of different molecular components is summarized and, as a result, the sensitivity (80%) and specificity (93%) of the identification are significantly improved compared to those obtained with typical classification algorithms. The strategy proposed can be very helpful when applied to the diagnosis of diseases whose presence is reflected in a minimal way in the analyzed biofluids (blood and its derivatives), as it is for MS as well as for other neurological disorders.
Pulmonary Artery Embolization in the Management of Hemoptysis Related to Lung Tumors
Authors: Claudinot Amandine , Douane Frédéric , Morla Olivier , Perret Christophe , Neveu Marine , Thouveny Francine , Bouvier Antoine , Hureaux José , Le Guen Arnaud , Jouan Jérémy , Heautot Jean-François , Larralde Antoine , Cerasuolo Damiano , Bergot Emmanuel , Fohlen Audrey , Pelage Jean-Pierre
Published: November 2023

(1) Background: Bronchial artery embolization has been shown to be effective in the management of neoplastic hemoptysis. However, knowledge of pulmonary artery embolization is lacking. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of pulmonary artery embolization in patients presenting with hemoptysis related to lung tumors. (2) Methods: This retrospective study reviewed all consecutive patients with cancer and at least one episode of hemoptysis that required pulmonary artery embolization from December 2008 to December 2020. The endpoints of the study were technical success, clinical success, recurrence of hemoptysis and complications. (3) Results: A total of 92 patients were treated with pulmonary artery embolization (63.1 years ± 9.9; 70 men). Most patients had stage III or IV advanced disease. Pulmonary artery embolization was technically successful in 82 (89%) patients and clinically successful in 77 (84%) patients. Recurrence occurred in 49% of patients. Infectious complications occurred in 15 patients (16%). The 30-day mortality rate was 31%. At 3 years, the survival rate was 3.6%. Tumor size, tumor cavitation and necrosis and pulmonary artery pseudoaneurysm were significantly associated with recurrence and higher mortality. (4) Conclusions: Pulmonary artery embolization is an effective treatment to initially control hemoptysis in patients with lung carcinoma, but the recurrence rate remains high and overall survival remains poor.
Molecular and Cellular Mechanism of Action of Chrysotile Asbestos in MRC5 Cell Line
Authors: Kussainova Assiya , Bulgakova Olga , Aripova Akmaral , Ibragimova Milana , Pulliero Alessandra , Begimbetova Dinara , Bersimbaev Rakhmetkazhi , Izzotti Alberto
Published: November 2023

Asbestos is a known carcinogen; however, the influence of chrysotile asbestos on the development of tumor-related diseases remains a subject of intense debate within the scientific community. To analyze the effect of asbestos, we conducted a study using the MRC5 cell line. We were able to demonstrate that chrysotile asbestos stimulated the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to cell death and DNA damage in the MRC5 cell line, using various techniques such as ROS measurement, comet assay, MTT assay, and qPCR. In addition, we found that chrysotile asbestos treatment significantly increased extracellular mitochondrial DNA levels in the culture medium and induced significant changes in the expression profile of several miRNAs, which was the first of its kind. Thus, our research highlights the importance of studying the effects of chrysotile asbestos on human health and reveals multiple adverse effects of chrysotile asbestos.
The Role of Small Airway Disease in Pulmonary Fibrotic Diseases
Authors: Barkas Georgios I. , Daniil Zoe , Kotsiou Ourania S.
Published: November 2023

Small airway disease (SAD) is a pathological condition that affects the bronchioles and non-cartilaginous airways 2 mm or less in diameter. These airways play a crucial role in respiratory function and are often implicated in various pulmonary disorders. Pulmonary fibrotic diseases are characterized by the thickening and scarring of lung tissue, leading to progressive respiratory failure. We aimed to present the link between SAD and fibrotic lung conditions. The evidence suggests that SAD may act as a precursor or exacerbating factor in the progression of fibrotic diseases. Patients with fibrotic conditions often exhibit signs of small airway dysfunction, which can contribute to worsening respiratory symptoms and decreased lung function. Moreover, individuals with advanced SAD are at a heightened risk of developing fibrotic changes in the lung. The interplay between inflammation, environmental factors, and genetic predisposition further complicates this association. The early detection and management of SAD can potentially mitigate the progression of fibrotic diseases, highlighting the need for comprehensive clinical evaluation and research. This review emphasizes the need to understand the evolving connection between SAD and pulmonary fibrosis, urging further detailed research to clarify the causes and potential treatment between the two entities.
Pretreatment Tumor Volume and Tumor Sphericity as Prognostic Factors in Patients with Oral Cavity Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Prospective Clinical Study in 95 Patients
Authors: Lucchi Elisabetta , Cercenelli Laura , Maiolo Vincenzo , Bortolani Barbara , Marcelli Emanuela , Tarsitano Achille
Published: November 2023

The prognostic impact of tumor volume and tumor sphericity was analyzed in 95 patients affected by oral cancer. The pre-operative computed tomography (CT) scans were used to segment the tumor mass with threshold tools, obtaining the corresponding volume and sphericity. Events of recurrence and tumor-related death were detected for each patient. The mean follow-up time was 31 months. A p-value of 0.05 was adopted. Mean tumor volume resulted higher in patients with recurrence or tumor-related death at the Student’s t-test (respectively, 19.8 cm3 vs. 11.1 cm3, p = 0.03; 23.3 cm3 vs. 11.7 cm3, p = 0.02). Mean tumor sphericity was higher in disease-free patients (0.65 vs. 0.59, p = 0.04). Recurrence-free survival and disease-specific survival were greater for patients with a tumor volume inferior to the cut-off values of 21.1 cm3 (72 vs. 21 months, p < 0.01) and 22.4 cm3 (85 vs. 32 months, p < 0.01). Recurrence-free survival and disease-specific survival were higher for patients with a tumor sphericity superior to the cut-off value of 0.57 (respectively, 49 vs. 33 months, p < 0.01; 56 vs. 51 months, p = 0.01). To conclude, tumor volume and sphericity, three-dimensional parameters, could add useful information for better stratification of prognosis in oral cancer.
Investigating Chronotype and Sleep Quality in Psoriatic Patients: Results from an Observational, Web-Based Survey
Authors: Borghi Alessandro , De Giorgi Alfredo , Monti Alberto , Cappadona Rosaria , Manfredini Roberto , Corazza Monica
Published: November 2023

Background: Psoriasis is an inflammatory disease for which the implications and repercussions go far beyond the skin. Psoriasis patients suffer not only due to its skin manifestations and related symptoms but also because of comorbidities and a huge emotional impact. Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate chronotype and sleep quality in a group of Italian psoriatic patients. Materials and Methods: An observational, cross-sectional, web-based study was set up by the Dermatology and Clinical Medicine Sections of the Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Italy. The web questionnaire was sent to an email list of an Italian association of psoriatic patients with the aim of recording their main demographic, social, historical, and clinical data. The survey included two questionnaires: the Morningness–Eveningness Questionnaire (MEQ) and the Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Results: Two hundred and forty-three psoriatic patients (mean age 52.9 ± 12.8 yrs., 32.5% males and 67.5% females) filled out the questionnaire. A good 63.8% of them were affected with psoriasis for more than 10 years, 25.9% reported having a diffuse psoriasis, and 66.7% were on treatment at the time they completed the questionnaire. With reference to chronotype, the mean MEQ score was 55.2 ± 10.7; furthermore, 44% of the patients were “morning-oriented types”, M-types, or “larks”, 44.5% were “intermediate-types” or I-types, and 11.5% were “evening-oriented types”, E-types, or “owls”. No correlations were found between chronotype and psoriasis extension. Based on the PSQI results, 72.8% of the study population was judged to have a low sleep quality. Sleep disturbance was significantly related to female sex, living alone, and the presence of comorbidities. Conclusions: Sleep disturbance is very common in psoriatic patients, especially in those with comorbidities, in females, and in patients who live alone. The chronotype in psoriatic patients does not appear different when compared to the general population, nor does it seem to have any link with psoriasis severity.
What Aspects Explain the Relationship between Digital Transformation and Financial Performance of Firms?
Authors: Zhou Yaying , Ock Young-Seok , Alnafrah Ibrahim , Dagestani Abd Alwahed
Published: November 2023

The emergence of digital transformation and digitization has significantly influenced business growth, particularly in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This study conducts a systematic bibliometric analysis to investigate the relationship between digital transformation and firms’ financial performance. The primary objectives are identifying research gaps and proposing future research directions and policy implications. Specifically, we examine the evolution of digital transformation in companies and its impact on their financial performance, while highlighting the major trends in digital transformation research. Employing text mining techniques, network analysis, and a systematic literature review (SLR), we evaluated 153 articles published between 2014 and 2023. Our analysis delves into academic publication journals, geographical locations, authors’, and academic institutions’ contributions, assessing their influence on the existing literature’s development. Our findings indicate a current absence of a consistent theoretical framework in the scientific literature pertaining to the study of digital transformation and its effects on firms’ financial performance. Furthermore, we have pinpointed specific areas that warrant further investigation, including SMEs, non-listed companies, and intermediary or mediating variables. Finally, this systematic bibliometric analysis contributes to the ongoing discourse on digital transformation and its influence on firms’ financial performance, summarizing the current scientific research and proposing new research directions for future studies, while also offering valuable insights for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners.
Using the Capital Asset Pricing Model and the Fama–French Three-Factor and Five-Factor Models to Manage Stock and Bond Portfolios: Evidence from Timor-Leste
Authors: Anuno Fernando , Madaleno Mara , Vieira Elisabete
Published: November 2023

Timor-Leste is a new country still in the process of economic development and does not yet have a capital market for stock and bond investments. These two asset classes have been invested in international capital markets such as the US, the UK, Japan, and Europe. We examine the performance of the capital asset pricing model (CAPM) and the Fama–French three-factor and five-factor models on the excess returns of Timor-Leste’s equity and bond investments in the international market over the period 2006 to 2019. Our empirical results show that the market factor (MKT) is positively and significantly associated with the excess returns of the CAPM and the Fama–French three-factor and five-factor models. Moreover, the two variables Small Minus Big (SMB) as a size factor and High Minus Low (HML) as a value factor have a negative and significant effect on the excess returns in the Fama–French three-factor model and five-factor model. Further analysis revealed that the explanatory power of the Fama–French five-factor model is that the Robust Minus Weak (RMW) factor as a profitability factor is positively and significantly associated with excess returns, while the Conservative Minus Aggressive (CMA) factor as an investment factor is insignificant.
Safety versus Compensation for Professional Athletes Who Face the Prospect of Career-Ending Injuries: An Economic Risk Analysis
Authors: Rockerbie Duane
Published: November 2023

The National Football League and National Hockey League have instituted several rule changes, equipment improvements and medical protocols in response to the frequency of serious career-ending injuries. These two professional leagues and others have litigated lawsuits by former players who have sought financial compensation. This paper constructs a simple economic model of a risk averse athlete who faces the uncertain prospect of a career-ending injury. Improving the athlete’s welfare can be accomplished by reducing the probability of a serious injury or providing increased compensation in the event of such an injury. The net marginal preference for safety is high in sports with moderate to high probabilities of serious injury. Compensation plans are favored in sports with moderate to low probabilities. Significant increases in player salaries have little effect on a players net marginal preference for safety. These results are robust to constant or decreasing absolute risk aversion.
Severe Parasite Co-Infection in a Captive Bactrian Camel: Case Report
Authors: Panayotova-Pencheva Mariana , Ponce-Gordo Francisco
Published: November 2023

The aim of this study was to document a case of parasite co-infection in a captive Bactrian camel and to supply morphometric data of the found pathogens. It concerned a 20-year-old male animal inhabiting Sofia Zoo, Bulgaria. A decreased appetite and gastrointestinal disorders were observed in it during the summer of 2022. Improvement in the animal’s condition was achieved after the administration of antibiotics, sulfonamides, and other symptomatic medicines. However, two weeks after treatment, clinical symptoms reappeared. Then, a diarrheal fecal sample from the animal was subjected to parasitological examination by direct smear and flotation and sedimentation techniques. Multiple infections by helminths (Trichostrongylus sp., Haemonchus sp., Oesophagostomum sp., Trichuris sp., and Dicrocoelium sp.), ciliates (Buxtonella cameli), and protozoa (Eimeria cameli) were found, with E. cameli being reported for the first time in zoo conditions. Deworming led to the recovery of the general condition and appearance of the animal’s feces, but two weeks later, it died suddenly. We considered that the parasitic infection was not the direct cause of the fatal outcome, and its presence, other health disorders, and the advanced age of the animal were among the contributing factors. This case reveals the need to combine planned preventive deworming with routine parasitological diagnostics to take timely and targeted actions to protect the health of animals inhabiting zoo facilities.