bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding AP2/ERF Transcription Factor Responses and Tolerance to Various Abiotic Stresses in Plants: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Ma Ziming , Hu Lanjuan , Jiang Wenzhu
Published: January 2024

Abiotic stress is an adverse environmental factor that severely affects plant growth and development, and plants have developed complex regulatory mechanisms to adapt to these unfavourable conditions through long-term evolution. In recent years, many transcription factor families of genes have been identified to regulate the ability of plants to respond to abiotic stresses. Among them, the AP2/ERF (APETALA2/ethylene responsive factor) family is a large class of plant-specific proteins that regulate plant response to abiotic stresses and can also play a role in regulating plant growth and development. This paper reviews the structural features and classification of AP2/ERF transcription factors that are involved in transcriptional regulation, reciprocal proteins, downstream genes, and hormone-dependent signalling and hormone-independent signalling pathways in response to abiotic stress. The AP2/ERF transcription factors can synergise with hormone signalling to form cross-regulatory networks in response to and tolerance of abiotic stresses. Many of the AP2/ERF transcription factors activate the expression of abiotic stress-responsive genes that are dependent or independent of abscisic acid and ethylene in response to abscisic acid and ethylene. In addition, the AP2/ERF transcription factors are involved in gibberellin, auxin, brassinosteroid, and cytokinin-mediated abiotic stress responses. The study of AP2/ERF transcription factors and interacting proteins, as well as the identification of their downstream target genes, can provide us with a more comprehensive understanding of the mechanism of plant action in response to abiotic stress, which can improve plants’ ability to tolerate abiotic stress and provide a more theoretical basis for increasing plant yield under abiotic stress.
Let-7a-5p Regulates Animal Lipid Accumulation by Targeting Srebf2 and Thbs1 Signaling
Authors: Shao Jiahao , Jiang Genglong , Li Yanhong , Wang Meigui , Tang Tao , Wang Jie , Jia Xianbo , Lai Songjia
Published: January 2024

Recently, the trend of obesity is becoming increasingly prevalent, and the underlying pathogenesis of obesity is complex and needs to be researched further. In this study, we report a decreased expression of let-7a-5p in the white adipose tissue (WAT) of animals with obesity. Using the RNA oligo, let-7a-5p over-expression or suppression–expression is achieved, impacting the proliferation and differentiation of preadipocytes in vitro. Srebf2 mechanistically interacts with the metabolic effect of let-7a-5p and participates in lipid accumulation by regulating Srebf2 downstream signaling. Moreover, let-7a-5p binds to Thbs1 to interact with the PI3K-AKT-mTOR pathway, down-regulating the phosphorylation levels of AKT, mTOR, and S6K1 to decrease lipid accumulation. In conclusion, our study highlights the physiological significance of let-7a-5p in lipid accumulation and suggests that the let-7a-5p/Srebf2 and let-7a-5p/Thbs1/PI3K-AKT-mTOR axes may represent potential mechanisms for controlling lipid accumulation in obesity.
A Drosophila Model Reveals the Potential Role for mtt in Retinal Disease
Authors: Chen Wenfeng , Zhong Wenmiao , Yu Lingqi , Lin Xiang , Xie Jiayu , Liu Zhenxing
Published: January 2024

Congenital stationary night blindness (CSNB) is a genetically heterogeneous inherited retinal disorder, caused by over 300 mutations in 17 different genes. While there are numerous fly models available for simulating ocular diseases, most are focused on mimicking retinitis pigmentosa (RP), with animal models specifically addressing CSNB limited to mammals. Here, we present a CSNB fly model associated with the mtt gene, utilizing RNA interference (RNAi) to silence the mtt gene in fly eyes (homologous to the mammalian GRM6 gene) and construct a CSNB model. Through this approach, we observed significant defects in the eye structure and function upon reducing mtt expression in fly eyes. This manifested as disruptions in the compound eye lens structure and reduced sensitivity to light responses. These results suggest a critical role for mtt in the function of fly adult eyes. Interestingly, we found that the mtt gene is not expressed in the photoreceptor neurons of adult flies but is localized to the inner lamina neurons. In summary, these results underscore the crucial involvement of mtt in fly retinal function, providing a framework for understanding the pathogenic mechanisms of CSNB and facilitating research into potential therapeutic interventions.
Animal Models, Pathogenesis, and Potential Treatment of Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm
Authors: Wang Yutang , Panicker Indu S. , Anesi Jack , Sargisson Owen , Atchison Benjamin , Habenicht Andreas J. R.
Published: January 2024

Thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA) has a prevalence of 0.16–0.34% and an incidence of 7.6 per 100,000 person-years, accounting for 1–2% of all deaths in Western countries. Currently, no effective pharmacological therapies have been identified to slow TAA development and prevent TAA rupture. Large TAAs are treated with open surgical repair and less invasive thoracic endovascular aortic repair, both of which have high perioperative mortality risk. Therefore, there is an urgent medical need to identify the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying TAA development and rupture to develop new therapies. In this review, we summarize animal TAA models including recent developments in porcine and zebrafish models: porcine models can assess new therapeutic devices or intervention strategies in a large mammal and zebrafish models can employ large-scale small-molecule suppressor screening in microwells. The second part of the review covers current views of TAA pathogenesis, derived from recent studies using these animal models, with a focus on the roles of the transforming growth factor-beta (TGFβ) pathway and the vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC)-elastin-contractile unit. The last part discusses TAA treatment options as they emerge from recent preclinical studies.
The Roles of Circadian Clock Genes in Plant Temperature Stress Responses
Authors: Jang Juna , Lee Sora , Kim Jeong-Il , Lee Sichul , Kim Jin
Published: January 2024

Plants monitor day length and memorize changes in temperature signals throughout the day, creating circadian rhythms that support the timely control of physiological and metabolic processes. The DEHYDRATION-RESPONSE ELEMENT-BINDING PROTEIN 1/C-REPEAT BINDING FACTOR (DREB1/CBF) transcription factors are known as master regulators for the acquisition of cold stress tolerance, whereas PHYTOCHROME INTERACTING FACTOR 4 (PIF4) is involved in plant adaptation to heat stress through thermomorphogenesis. Recent studies have shown that circadian clock genes control plant responses to temperature. Temperature-responsive transcriptomes show a diurnal cycle and peak expression levels at specific times of throughout the day. Circadian clock genes play essential roles in allowing plants to maintain homeostasis by accommodating temperature changes within the normal temperature range or by altering protein properties and morphogenesis at the cellular level for plant survival and growth under temperature stress conditions. Recent studies revealed that the central oscillator genes CIRCADIAN CLOCK ASSOCIATED 1/LATE ELONGATED HYPOCOTYL (CCA1/LHY) and PSEUDO-RESPONSE REGULATOR5/7/9 (PRR5/7/9), as well as the EVENING COMPLEX (EC) genes REVEILLE4/REVEILLE8 (REV4/REV8), were involved in the DREB1 pathway of the cold signaling transcription factor and regulated the thermomorphogenesis gene PIF4. Further studies showed that another central oscillator, TIMING OF CAB EXPRESSION 1 (TOC1), and the regulatory protein ZEITLUPE (ZTL) are also involved. These studies led to attempts to utilize circadian clock genes for the acquisition of temperature-stress resistance in crops. In this review, we highlight circadian rhythm regulation and the clock genes involved in plant responses to temperature changes, as well as strategies for plant survival in a rapidly changing global climate.
Establishment and Validation of Novel Prognostic Subtypes in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Based on Bile Acid Metabolism Gene Signatures Using Bulk and Single-Cell RNA-Seq Data
Authors: Qu Yimo , Gong Xiaocheng , Zhao Ziyuan , Zhang Zimei , Zhang Qian , Huang Yuting , Xie Qingsong , Liu Yunfei , Wei Jinfen , Du Hongli
Published: January 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a highly detrimental cancer type and has limited therapeutic options, posing significant threats to human health. The development of HCC has been associated with a disorder in bile acid (BA) metabolism. In this study, we employed an integrative approach, combining various datasets and omics analyses, to comprehensively characterize the tumor microenvironment in HCC based on genes related to BA metabolism. Our analysis resulted in the classification of HCC samples into four subtypes (C1, C2a, C2b, and C3). Notably, subtype C2a, characterized by the highest bile acid metabolism score (BAMS), exhibited the highest survival probability. This subtype also demonstrated increased immune cell infiltration, lower cell cycle scores, reduced AFP levels, and a lower risk of metastasis compared to subtypes C1 and C3. Subtype C1 displayed poorer survival probability and elevated cell cycle scores. Importantly, the identified subtypes based on BAMS showed potential relevance to the gene expression of drug targets in currently approved drugs and those under clinical research. Genes encoding VEGFR (FLT4 and KDR) and MET were elevated in C2, while genes such as TGFBR1, TGFB1, ADORA3, SRC, BRAF, RET, FLT3, KIT, PDGFRA, and PDGFRB were elevated in C1. Additionally, FGFR2 and FGFR3, along with immune target genes including PDCD1 and CTLA4, were higher in C3. This suggests that subtypes C1, C2, and C3 might represent distinct potential candidates for TGFB1 inhibitors, VEGFR inhibitors, and immune checkpoint blockade treatments, respectively. Significantly, both bulk and single-cell transcriptome analyses unveiled a negative correlation between BA metabolism and cell cycle-related pathways. In vitro experiments further confirmed that the treatment of HCC cell lines with BA receptor agonist ursodeoxycholic acid led to the downregulation of the expression of cell cycle-related genes. Our findings suggest a plausible involvement of BA metabolism in liver carcinogenesis, potentially mediated through the regulation of tumor cell cycles and the immune microenvironment. This preliminary understanding lays the groundwork for future investigations to validate and elucidate the specific mechanisms underlying this potential association. Furthermore, this study provides a novel foundation for future precise molecular typing and the design of systemic clinical trials for HCC therapy.
Comparison of Nuclear Medicine Therapeutics Targeting PSMA among Alpha-Emitting Nuclides
Authors: Kaneda-Nakashima Kazuko , Shirakami Yoshifumi , Kadonaga Yuichiro , Watabe Tadashi , Ooe Kazuhiro , Yin Xiaojie , Haba Hiromitsu , Shirasaki Kenji , Kikunaga Hidetoshi , Tsukada Kazuaki , Toyoshima Atsushi , Cardinale Jens , Giesel Frederik L. , Fukase Koichi
Published: January 2024

Currently, targeted alpha therapy (TAT) is a new therapy involving the administration of a therapeutic drug that combines a substance of α-emitting nuclides that kill cancer cells and a drug that selectively accumulates in cancer cells. It is known to be effective against cancers that are difficult to treat with existing methods, such as cancer cells that are widely spread throughout the whole body, and there are high expectations for its early clinical implementation. The nuclides for TAT, including 149Tb, 211At, 212/213Bi, 212Pb (for 212Bi), 223Ra, 225Ac, 226/227Th, and 230U, are known. However, some nuclides encounter problems with labeling methods and lack sufficient preclinical and clinical data. We labeled the compounds targeting prostate specific membrane antigen (PSMA) with 211At and 225Ac. PSMA is a molecule that has attracted attention as a theranostic target for prostate cancer, and several targeted radioligands have already shown therapeutic effects in patients. The results showed that 211At, which has a much shorter half-life, is no less cytotoxic than 225Ac. In 211At labeling, our group has also developed an original method (Shirakami Reaction). We have succeeded in obtaining a highly purified labeled product in a short timeframe using this method.
Role of Exosomal miR-205-5p Cargo in Angiogenesis and Cell Migration
Authors: Martínez-Santos Miriam , Ybarra María , Oltra María , Muriach María , Romero Francisco J. , Pires Maria E. , Sancho-Pelluz Javier , Barcia Jorge M.
Published: January 2024

Exosomes or small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) represent a pivotal component in intercellular communication, carrying a diverse array of biomolecules. Several factors can affect sEVs release dynamics, as occurs in hyperglycemia or inflammation. In fact, sEVs release has been associated with the promotion of physio-pathological processes. Among the sEVs cargo, microRNAs play an essential role in cell-to-cell regulation. More concretely, miR-205-5p is related to angiogenesis and cell proliferation. The aim of this study is to understand the specific role of sEVs containing miR-205-5p under high glucose conditions. ARPE-19 cells were cultured with high glucose (HG) for 5 days. sEVs were isolated and characterized. sEVs from ARPE-19 were used for angiogenesis and cell proliferation. HG increased sEVs release but downregulated miR-205-5p cargo expression compared to the control. sEVs from HG-treated ARPE-19 cells promoted tube formation and migration processes. In contrast, miR-205-5p overexpression (by mimic transfection) decreased angiogenesis and cell migration. Our results demonstrate how ARPE-19 cells respond to HG challenge by increasing sEVs with weak miR-205-5p cargo. The absence of this miRNA in sEVs is enough to promote angiogenesis. In contrast, restoring sEVs-miR-205-5p levels decreased it. These findings open new possibilities in sEVs-based therapies containing miR-205-5p against angiogenesis.
High Plasma Osteopontin Levels Are Associated with Serious Post-Acute-COVID-19-Related Dyspnea
Authors: Pappas Apostolos G. , Eleftheriou Konstantinos , Vlahakos Vassilios , Magkouta Sophia F. , Riba Theofani , Dede Konstantina , Siampani Rafaela , Kompogiorgas Steven , Polydora Eftychia , Papalampidou Athanasia , Loutsidi Natasa-Eleni , Mantas Nikolaos , Tavernaraki Ekaterini , Exarchos Demetrios , Kalomenidis Ioannis
Published: January 2024

COVID-19 survivors commonly report persistent symptoms. In this observational study, we investigated the link between osteopontin (OPN) and post-acute COVID-19 symptoms and lung functional/imaging abnormalities. We recorded symptoms and lung imaging/functional data from previously hospitalized COVID-19 patients, who were followed for 4–84 weeks (122 patients/181 visits) post-symptom onset at our outpatient clinic. Circulating OPN was determined using ELISA. Plasma OPN levels were higher in symptomatic patients (compared with the asymptomatic ones); those with dyspnea (compared with those without dyspnea);those with a combination of serious symptoms, i.e., the presence of at least one of the following: dyspnea, fatigue and muscular weakness (compared with those with none of these symptoms); and those with dyspnea and m-MRC > 1 (compared with those with m-MRC = 0–1). Plasma OPN levels were inversely correlated with EQ-VAS (visual analog scale of the EQ-5D-5L health-related quality-of-life questionnaire) values. High-resolution CT or diffusion lung capacity (DLCO) findings were not related to circulating OPN. In the multiple logistic regression, the presence of symptoms, dyspnea, or the combination of serious symptoms were linked to female gender, increased BMI and pre-existing dyspnea (before the acute disease), while increased plasma OPN levels, female gender and pre-existing dyspnea with m-MRC > 1 were independently associated with severe post-COVID-19 dyspnea (m-MRC > 1). Using a correlation matrix to investigate multiple correlations between EQ-VAS, OPN and epidemiological data, we observed an inverse correlation between the OPN and EQ-VAS values. Increased circulating OPN was linked to the persistence of severe exertional dyspnea and impaired quality of life in previously hospitalized COVID-19 patients.
Does Second Trimester Maternal Serum Zonulin Level Predict Gestational Diabetes Mellitus?
Authors: Tonyalı Nazan Vanlı , Arslan Burak , Sucu Serap Topkara , Sarsmaz Kemal , İbanoğlu Müjde Can , Örgül Gökçen , Aktemur Gizem , Yücel Aykan , Şahin Dilek
Published: January 2024

Zonulin, a protein that regulates intestinal permeability, has attracted attention as a potential biomarker for GDM. Therefore, this study aims to investigate whether there are differences in zonulin levels between the GDM group and control groups, especially between those receiving different treatments (diet and insulin). Based on this idea, we included 90 patients with a gestational age between 24 and 28 weeks in our study. While GDM was not detected in 33 of these patients, as a result of OGTT, 57 patients were diagnosed with GDM and these patients were followed throughout their pregnancy. Gestational diabetes was diagnosed by an OGTT performed between 24 and 28 weeks of gestation according to American Diabetes Association (ADA) standards. During follow-up, GDM patients were divided into two groups according to whether they required insulin treatment. Plasma zonulin levels were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) techniques. The GDM group had significantly higher plasma zonulin levels than the control group (p < 0.005). According to our research, zonulin may be a non-invasive biomarker involved in the etiology of GDM. Large-scale research on this topic is still needed.
The Heart’s Function as a Pump Assessed via Impedance Cardiography and the Autonomic System Balance in Patients with Early-Stage Acromegaly
Authors: Jurek Agnieszka , Krzesiński Paweł , Wierzbowski Robert , Uziębło-Życzkowska Beata , Witek Przemysław , Zieliński Grzegorz , Kazimierczak Anna , Banak Małgorzata , Gielerak Grzegorz
Published: January 2024

Background: Acromegaly is a rare, chronic disease that involves structural and functional abnormalities of the cardiovascular system. Acromegaly likely affects interactions between the cardiovascular system and the autonomic nervous system (ANS). Therefore, assessing the relationship between sympathetic–parasympathetic balance by analyzing heart rate variability (HRV) and the hemodynamic profile via impedance cardiography (ICG) may be useful in learning the exact nature of interactions between the ANS and the cardiovascular system. The purpose of this study was to assess a possible association between HRV and ICG-based parameters of cardiac function in patients newly diagnosed with acromegaly. Methods: This observational cohort study was conducted on 33 patients (18 men, mean age of 47 years) newly diagnosed with acromegaly and no significant comorbidities. A correlation analysis (Spearman’s rank coefficient R) of the parameters assessed via ICG and the HRV assessed via 24 h ambulatory electrocardiography was performed. ICG assessments included the following parameters: stroke volume index (SI), cardiac index (CI), acceleration index (ACI), velocity index (VI), and Heather index (HI). The analysis of HRV included both time-domain parameters (pNN50, SDNN, SDSD, rMSSD) and frequency-domain parameters (total power (TP) and its individual frequency bands: low-frequency (LF day/night), high-frequency (HF day/night), and the LF/HF ratio (day/night)). Results: Frequency-domain HRV analysis showed the following correlations: (1) lower nighttime LF values with higher ACI (R = −0.38; p = 0.027) and HI (R = −0.46; p = 0.007) values; (2) higher nighttime HF values with higher ACI (R = 0.39; p = 0.027) and HI (R = 0.43; p = 0.014) values; (3) lower nighttime LF/HF values with higher ACI (R = −0.36; p = 0.037) and HI (R = −0.42; p = 0.014) values; (4) higher nighttime TP values with higher SI values (R = 0.35; p = 0.049). Time-domain parameters of HRV showed a significant correlation only between the nighttime values of SDSD and SI (R = 0.35; p = 0.049) and between the daytime and nighttime values of SDNN and HR (R = −0.50; p = 0.003 and R = −0.35; p = 0.046). In multivariate regression, only ACI was revealed to be independently related to HRV. Conclusions: In patients newly diagnosed with acromegaly, the relationship between the sympathetic–parasympathetic balance assessed via HRV and the hemodynamic profile assessed via ICG was revealed. Better function of the left ventricle was associated with a parasympathetic shift in the autonomic balance.
A Retrospective Case–Control Study on the Differences in the Effectiveness of Theta-Burst Stimulation Therapy for Depression with and without Antidepressant Medication
Authors: Ikawa Haruki , Takeda Yuya , Osawa Ryota , Sato Akiko , Mizuno Hoshimi , Noda Yoshihiro
Published: January 2024

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy has few side effects and comparable therapeutic effects to antidepressant treatment, but few studies have introduced TMS therapy as an initial treatment for MDD. The objective of this study was to retrospectively compare the clinical outcomes between 50 MDD patients without antidepressants (i.e., TMS monotherapy) and 50 MDD patients with antidepressants plus TMS therapy, matched for age, sex, and depression severity. The presence or absence of antidepressant therapy in first-line treatment was determined via a detailed interview by psychiatrists. The study design was a retrospective observational case–control study using the TMS registry data. The key inclusion criteria were adult patients who met the diagnosis of MDD and received 20–30 sessions of intermittent theta-burst stimulation (iTBS) therapy to the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC). In this study, the Montgomery–Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) was used as the primary outcome measure. No significant group differences existed in the baseline MADRS total score between the unmedicated and medicated patient groups. Following TMS therapy, no significant group differences in response rate, remission rate, or relative total score change in the MADRS were observed. The main limitations were the retrospective design and the use of registry data as a source. Our findings suggest that TMS monotherapy may be as effective as TMS add-on therapy to antidepressants when used as the first-line therapy for MDD, but randomized controlled trials are needed.
Is the Absence of Manual Lymphatic Drainage-Based Treatment in Lymphedema after Breast Cancer Harmful? A Randomized Crossover Study
Authors: Da Cuña-Carrera Iria , Soto-González Mercedes , Abalo-Núñez Rocío , Lantarón-Caeiro Eva M.
Published: January 2024

(1) Background: Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD), included within the complex decongestive therapy, as a therapy for the treatment of lymphedema has raised controversy about its benefits for lymphedema after breast cancer. The aim of this research is to test the effects of MLD on lymphedema after breast cancer during the treatment maintenance phase. (2) Methods: A randomized, single-blinded, controlled crossover trial was conducted to analyze the effects of a manual lymphatic drainage intervention compared to a control group without MLD intervention for the treatment of lymphedema. Arm volume measured by circumference measurement, subcutaneous tissue thickness measured by ultrasound, and the sensation of pain, heaviness, and swelling were evaluated as outcome measures. (3) Results: For the control group, an increase in volume was found in some of the circumference and subcutaneous tissue thickness measurements, in addition to a worsening of arm pain, swelling and heaviness. (4) Conclusion: The absence of treatment based on MLD in lymphedema after breast cancer worsens volume measurements, as well as arm heaviness. Therefore, it would be advisable to carry out this type of therapy as part of the maintenance treatment for lymphedema in breast cancer.
Ongoing Peritoneal Dialysis Training at Home Allows for the Improvement of Patients’ Empowerment: A Single Center Experience
Authors: Milan Manani Sabrina , Virzì Grazia Maria , Morisi Niccolò , Marturano Davide , Tantillo Ilaria , Giuliani Anna , Miranda Nunzia , Brocca Alessandra , Alfano Gaetano , Donati Gabriele , Ronco Claudio , Zanella Monica
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Peritoneal dialysis (PD), as a home treatment, ensures better patient autonomy and lower intrusiveness compared to hemodialysis. However, choosing PD comes with an increased burden of responsibility that the patient may not always be able to bear, due to advanced age and deteriorating health condition. Various approaches have been explored to address this issue and mitigate its primary complications. In this study, we aim to present the ongoing PD training at-home program implemented by the Vicenza PD Center, and evaluate its impact on patients’ prognoses. Material and Methods: We enrolled 210 patients who underwent PD at Vicenza Hospital between 1 January 2019 and 1 January 2022 for a minimum of 90 days. Each patient was observed retrospectively for one year. We categorized the patients into three groups based on their level of autonomy regarding their PD management: completely independent patients; patients able to perform some parts of the PD method on their own, while the remaining aspects were carried out by a caregiver; and patients who required complete assistance from a caregiver, like in the assisted PD program (asPD). Results: A total of 70% of the PD population were autonomous regarding their PD therapy, 14% had an intermediate degree of autonomy, and 16% were entirely dependent on caregivers. The PD nurses performed a median of four home visits per patient per year, with a tendency to make more visits to patients with a lower degree of autonomy. All the groups achieved similar clinical outcomes. At the end of the year of observation, only 6% of the patients witnessed a decline in their autonomy level, whereas 7% demonstrated an enhancement in their level of autonomy, and 87% remained stable. Conclusions: A home care assistance program ensures clinical support to a household with the purpose of improving the empowerment of the PD population and reducing the prevalence of assisted PD. Ongoing PD training at home helps patients to maintain a stable degree of autonomy and stay in their home setting, even though they present with relative attitudinal or social barriers.
Quasi-Static Fracture Toughness and Damage Monitoring in Liquid Metal Reinforced Hybrid Composites
Authors: Safford Zachary , Shonar Mohammed , Chalivendra Vijaya
Published: January 2024

An experimental study is performed to investigate the quasi-static fracture toughness and damage monitoring capabilities of liquid metal (75.5% Gallium/24.5% Indium) reinforced intraply glass/carbon hybrid composites. Two different layups (G-0, where glass fibers are along the crack propagation direction; C-0, where carbon fibers are along the crack propagation direction) and two different weight percentages of liquid metal (1% and 2%) are considered in the fabrication of the composites. A novel four-probe technique is employed to determine the piezo-resistive damage response under mode-I fracture loading conditions. The effect of layups and liquid metal concentrations on fracture toughness and changes in piezo-resistance response is discussed. The C-composite without liquid metal demonstrated higher fracture toughness compared to that of the G-composite due to carbon fiber breakage. The addition of liquid metal decreases the fracture initiation toughness of both G- and C-composites. Scanning electron microscopy images show that liquid metal takes the form of large liquid metal pockets and small spherical droplets on the fracture surfaces. In both C- and G-composites, the peak resistance change of composites with 2% liquid metal is substantially lower than that of both no-liquid metal and 1% liquid metal composites.
The Influence of Alkaline Pretreatment of Waste Nutshell for Use in Particulate Biocomposites
Authors: Brleković Filip , Mužina Katarina , Kurajica Stanislav
Published: January 2024

The aim of this work was to determine how different types of alkaline pretreatment influence the properties of waste almond and hazelnut nutshell, as well as their compatibility with model inorganic geopolymer matrixes for the formation of biocomposites with potential use in civil engineering. For alkaline pretreatment, 3, 6 and 9% NaOH water solutions and milk of lime were used under different temperature and time conditions. The rise in the crystallinity index was confirmed by X-ray powder diffraction analysis, while the corroboration of the removal of amorphous and undesirable components was demonstrated through Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. Furthermore, the effectiveness of the pretreatments was confirmed via simultaneous differential thermal and thermogravimetric analysis, and the positive change in the morphology of the surface of the waste nutshell (WN) and the deposition of the desired phases was established using scanning electron microscopy. Surface free energy and adhesion parameters were calculated using the Owens, Wendt, Rabel and Kaelble method for WN as fillers and geopolymers as model novel inorganic binders. This research indicates that the 6% NaOH treatment is the optimal pretreatment process for preparing WN as the filler in combination with potassium and metakaolin geopolymer that has been cured at room temperature.
Efficient Humanitarian Logistics: Multi-Commodity Location–Inventory Model Incorporating Demand Probability and Consumption Coefficients
Authors: Delshad Majid Mehrabi , Chobar Adel Pourghader , Ghasemi Peiman , Jafari Davoud
Published: January 2024

Background: A logistics network plan could be a major key issue due to its effect on supply chain effectiveness and responsiveness. This study aims to investigate the inventory location in the humanitarian logistics response stage using a three-level logistics network to integrate location–allocation problems such as warehouse location and shelter allocation to each facility, and then determine the inventory level in each warehouse. Methods: In this research, the center and its distribution, as well as the reduction in service-level costs due to inventory deficit, have been considered to increase the level of shelter services. In order to investigate the network, in this study, bi-objective mixed-integer linear programming (BOMILP) is presented. Results: The first objective is to reduce location costs and inventory costs that take into account probable demand, consumption factors, and transportation costs, and the second objective is to raise the level of services offered to victims in the model. The software programs GAMS win32, 25.1.2 and MATLAB have been utilized with numerical examples in various dimensions. Conclusions: To maximize the efficiency and quality of the service, first, the model was numerically solved, and then the location where the most commodities could be transported at the lowest possible cost was identified.
Mechanical Properties and Reaction Kinetics of Alkali-Activated Metakaolin
Authors: Cui Chao , Dang Yingze , Luo Chenguang , Wang Lan , Peng Hui
Published: January 2024

In this study, the influence of the physicochemical properties and proportioning conditions of metakaolin on the mechanical properties of the synthesized metakaolin geopolymers was comprehensively evaluated, and the issue of the reaction control mechanism for the formation of mechanical properties during the synthesis of geopolymers was addressed. The reaction mechanism was analyzed by SEM and FTIR, and the kinetic analysis of the geopolymerization process was carried out using isothermal calorimetry combined with the Jander model. The test results show that the physicochemical properties of the metakaolin and the proportioning conditions together affect the mechanical properties of the geopolymer, with the correlation between the active aluminum content of the metakaolin and the strength of the geopolymer reaching over 0.87. The early stages of the geopolymerization reaction are all controlled by nucleation–growth mechanisms (N < 1), and the variability in control mechanisms is mainly found in the later stages of the geopolymerization reaction. The low reactivity and slow exothermic hydration of metakaolin are more inclined to the nucleation-growth mechanism responsible for the hydration process due to the large amount of encapsulation.
Fekete–Szegő and Zalcman Functional Estimates for Subclasses of Alpha-Convex Functions Related to Trigonometric Functions
Authors: Marimuthu Krishnan , Jayaraman Uma , Bulboacă Teodor
Published: January 2024

In this study, we introduce the new subclasses, Mα(sin) and Mα(cos), of α-convex functions associated with sine and cosine functions. First, we obtain the initial coefficient bounds for the first five coefficients of the functions that belong to these classes. Further, we determine the upper bound of the Zalcman functional for the class Mα(cos) for the case n=3, proving that the Zalcman conjecture holds for this value of n. Moreover, the problem of the Fekete–Szegő functional estimate for these classes is studied.
DALS: Diffusion-Based Artistic Landscape Sketch
Authors: Kim Junho , Yang Heekyung , Min Kyungha
Published: January 2024

We propose a framework that synthesizes artistic landscape sketches using a diffusion model-based approach. Furthermore, we suggest a three-channel perspective map (3CPM) that mimics the artistic skill used by real artists. We employ Stable Diffusion, which leads us to use ControlNet to process 3CPM in Stable Diffusion. Additionally, we adopt the Low Rank Adaptation (LoRA) method to fine-tune our framework, thereby enhancing the quality of sketch and resolving the color-remaining problem, which is a frequently observed artifact in the sketch images using diffusion models. We implement a bimodal sketch generation interface: text to sketch and image to sketch. In producing a sketch, a guide token is used so that our method synthesizes an artistic sketch in both cases. Finally, we evaluate our framework using quantitative and quantitative schemes. Various sketch images synthesized by our framework demonstrate the excellence of our study.
Coupon Collector Problem with Reset Button
Authors: Jocković Jelena , Todić Bojana
Published: January 2024

We consider the following generalization of the classical coupon collector problem. We assume that, in addition to the initial collection of standard coupons, there is one more coupon that acts as a reset button, removing all coupons from the part of the collection that has already been drawn. For the case where standard coupons have unequal probabilities of being drawn, we obtain the distribution of the waiting time until the end of the collection process. For the case where standard coupons have equal probabilities, we derive a simple formula for the expected waiting time in terms of the beta function, and discuss the asymptotic properties of this expected waiting time, when the number of standard coupons tends toward infinity.
VARMA Models with Single- or Mixed-Frequency Data: New Conditions for Extended Yule–Walker Identification
Authors: Pestano-Gabino Celina , González-Concepción Concepción , Gil-Fariña María Candelaria
Published: January 2024

This paper deals with the identifiability of VARMA models with VAR order greater than or equal to the MA order, in the context of mixed-frequency data (MFD) using extended Yule–Walker equations. The main contribution is that necessary and sufficient conditions for identifiability in the single-frequency data case are expressed in an original way and yield new results in the MFD case. We also provide two counterexamples that answer an open question in this topic about whether certain sufficient conditions are necessary for identifiability. Therefore, this paper expands the set of models that can be identified with MFD using extended Yule–Walker equations. The main idea is that with MFD, some autocovariance blocks are not available from observed variables and, in some cases, the new conditions in this paper can be used to reconstruct all the non-available covariance blocks from available covariance blocks.
Correction: Arce-Huamani et al. Efficacy and Safety of Apixaban versus Dalteparin as a Treatment for Cancer-Associated Venous Thromboembolism: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Medicina 2023, 59, 1867
Authors: Arce-Huamani Miguel A. , Barboza Joshuan J. , Martínez-Herrera José Fabián , Torres-Roman J. Smith , Maguiña Jorge L.
Published: January 2024

There was an error in the original publication [...]
A Lithuanian Case of Tyrosinemia Type 1 with a Literature Review: A Rare Cause of Acute Liver Failure in Childhood
Authors: Rokaitė Rūta , Čibirkaitė Agnė , Zeleckytė Vykinta , Lazdinytė Gabija , Dženkaitis Mindaugas
Published: January 2024

Hereditary type 1 tyrosinemia (HT1) is a rare inherited autosomal recessive disorder of tyrosine metabolism, characterized by progressive liver damage, dysfunction of kidney tubules, and neurological crises. In the course of this disease, due to the deficiency of the enzyme fumarylacetoacetate hydrolase (FAH), toxic intermediate metabolites of tyrosine breakdown, such as fumarylacetoacetate (FAA), succinylacetoacetate (SAA), and succinylacetone (SA), accumulate in liver and kidney cells, causing cellular damage. Because of this, an increased SA concentration in the blood or urine is pathognomonic of HT1. In the year 2000, HT1 was diagnosed in Lithuania for the first time, and this was the first time when a specific treatment for HT1 was administered in the country. Over two decades, four cases of this disease have been diagnosed in Lithuania. In the first of these patients, the disease was diagnosed in infancy, manifesting as liver damage with liver failure. Treatment with nitisinone was initiated, which continues to be administered, maintaining normal liver function. Liver transplantation was performed on two subsequent patients due to complications of HT1. It is crucial to diagnose HT1 as early as possible in order to reduce or completely eliminate complications related to the disease, including progressive liver failure and kidney dysfunction, among others. This can only be achieved by conducting a universal newborn screening for tyrosinemia and by starting treatment with nitisinone (NTBC) before the age of 1 month in all cases of HT1. However, in those countries where this screening is not being carried out, physicians must be aware of and consider this highly rare disorder. They should be vigilant, paying attention to even minimal changes in a few specific laboratory test results—such as unexplained anemia alongside neutropenia and thrombocytopenia—and should conduct more detailed examinations to determine the causes of these changes. In this article, we present the latest clinical case of HT1 in Lithuania, diagnosed at the Children’s Diseases’ Clinic of the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences (LUHS) Hospital Kaunas Clinics. The case manifested as life-threatening acute liver failure in early childhood. This article explores and discusses the peculiarities of diagnosing this condition in the absence of universal newborn screening for tyrosinemia in the country, as well as the course, treatment, and ongoing monitoring of patients with this disorder.
Healthcare-Associated Infections and Prevention Programs in General Nursing versus Residential Homes—Results of the Point Prevalence Survey in Polish Long-Term Care Facilities
Authors: Baranowska-Tateno Katarzyna , Micek Agnieszka , Gniadek Agnieszka , Wójkowska-Mach Jadwiga , Różańska Anna
Published: January 2024

Background and Objectives: The number of residents of long-term care facilities (LTCFs) is expected to increase. Determining the epidemiological situation in the context of organizational conditions is therefore extremely important for planning the necessary future activities in the field of infection prevention. The aim of this study was to analyze the prevalence rates in Polish nursing vs. residential homes, in the context of the medical and functional burdens of residents and the organizational conditions of both types of units. Material and Methods: the data that were analyzed came from a point prevalence survey of infections and antibiotic consumption in LTCFs, conducted in accordance with the HALT-3 protocol in Poland in 2017, between April and June. Results: This study included a total of 2313 residents in 24 LTCFs. The most common risk factors for infections in the study population were urinary and fecal incontinence (77.0%), impaired mobility (the patient was in a wheelchair or lying down) (68.7%), and impaired spatial and temporal orientation (52.5%). The median prevalence in nursing homes (NHs) was 3.2% and that in residential homes (RHs) was 0.7%, but without statistical significance. The median for the entire group was 2.6%. A total of 93 healthcare-related infections were detected in 91 residents. The most frequently reported forms of infections were urinary tract infections, lower respiratory tract infections, and skin infections. A statistically significant positive correlation was found only between the percentage of residents with pressure ulcers and other wounds and the incidence of gastrointestinal infections (correlation coefficient = 0.413, p < 0.05). Infection prevention and control measures were implemented mainly in nursing homes, and in residential homes, only hand hygiene procedures were commonly available. Conclusions: For the two types of LTCFs, the epidemiological situation in terms of nosocomial infections is diverse. Consequently, both types of facilities require different approaches to infection control and prevention and outcomes analysis.
Dimeric 3,5-Bis(benzylidene)-4-piperidones: Tumor-Selective Cytotoxicity and Structure-Activity Relationships
Authors: Das Swagatika , Roayapalley Praveen K. , Sakagami Hiroshi , Umemura Naoki , Gorecki Dennis K. J. , Hossain Mohammad , Kawase Masami , Das Umashankar , Dimmock Jonathan R.
Published: January 2024

Background: The objective of this study is to find novel antineoplastic agents that display greater toxicity to malignant cells than to neoplasms. In addition, the mechanisms of action of representative compounds are sought. This report describes the cytotoxicity of a number of dimers of 3,5-bis(benzylidene)-4-piperidones against human malignant cells (promyelocytic leukemia HL-60 and squamous cell carcinoma HSC-2, HSC-3, and HSC-4). Methods: Tumor specificity was evaluated by the selectivity index (SI), that is the ratio of the mean CC50 for human non-malignant oral cells (gingival fibroblasts, pulp cells, periodontal ligament fibroblasts) to that for malignant cells. Results: The compounds were highly toxic to human malignant cells. On the other hand, these molecules were less toxic to human non-malignant cells. In particular, a potent lead molecule, 3b, was identified. A QSAR study revealed that the placement of electron-releasing and hydrophilic substituents into the aryl rings led to increases in cytotoxic potencies. The modes of action of a lead compound discovered in this study designated 3b were the activation of caspases-3 and -7, as well as causing PARP1 cleavage and G2 arrest, followed by sub-G1 accumulation in the cell cycle. This compound also depolarized the mitochondrial membrane and generated reactive oxygen species in human colon carcinoma HCT116 cells. In conclusion, this study has revealed that, in general, the compounds described in this report are tumor-selective cytotoxins.
Crystallography and Applications of Metallic Materials
Authors: Suñol Joan-Josep
Published: January 2024

Scientific and technological interest in metals, metallic alloys and compounds is related to the wide range of applications in fields such as mobility, biomedicine, heat transfer, energy and sustainability [...]
The Potential of Cast Stock for the Forging of Aluminum Components within the Automotive Industry
Authors: Arbo Siri Marthe , Tjøtta Stig , Boge Magne H. , Tundal Ulf , Li Jørgen , Dumoulin Stephane , Jensrud Ola
Published: January 2024

In the automotive industry, there is a drive to reduce environmental impact, energy consumption, and costs related to the manufacturing of forged aluminum suspension components. The replacement of extruded stock with cast forging stock is one option that offers substantial potential for such savings. The casting technology, low-pressure casting (LPC), allows for production of high-quality cast forging stock with minimal surface segregation and smaller diameters than those achieved with traditional casting technologies. This study is a proof-of-principle, conducted to directly compare the microstructure and mechanical properties of LPC and extruded material after forging, through both generic and full-scale industrial forging trials. The results show the advantages of the cast material, including higher robustness against surface grain growth after forging and a positive correlation between mechanical properties, both strength and ductility and the introduction of plastic deformation. Overall, the work demonstrates how forged aluminum components produced from LPC forging stock can achieve mechanical properties and performance, on par with extruded forging stock, showcasing industrial relevance through the production of a safety-critical automotive component.
Effects of Glomus fasciculatum, Azotobacter chroococcum and Vermicompost Leachate on the Production and Quality of Tomato Fruit
Authors: Alarcón-Zayas Alejandro , Hernández-Montiel Luis Guillermo , Medina-Hernández Diana , Rueda-Puente Edgar Omar , Ceiro-Catasú Wilson Geobel , Holguín-Peña Ramón Jaime
Published: January 2024

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, plant-growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) and vermicompost constitute important environmental and economic resources for improving the production and quality of tomato fruits. The present research aims to determine the single and combined effect of Glomus fasciculatum (Gf) fungus, Azotobacter chroococcum (Azot), PGPB and vermicompost leachate (VL) organic fertilizer on the yield and quality of tomato fruit. Thus, an open-field experiment was established with seven treatments, a control and three replicates. Total soluble solids, vitamin C, acidity, fruit mass and fruit diameter were evaluated as fruit quality variables; the yield was recorded and estimated in tons per hectare−1. The results showed that Gf, Azot and VL were effective in promoting tomato yield and fruit quality. As a trend, the triple combination (Gf + Azot + VL) evidently obtained the highest values of total soluble solids, vitamin C and fruit acidity. The range of improvement concerning the fruit size was 66.6% (single treatment) compared to 78.5% (triple combination). The maximum yield of 54.5 t/ha−1 was recorded for the Gf + Azot + VL combination. Therefore, G. fasciculatum, A. chroococcum and VL are considered useful as organic alternatives for open-field tomato biofertilization programs in tropical countries.