bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dual Isotopes Tracing Carbon and Nitrogen Dynamics during Leguminous and Non-Leguminous Litter Decomposition under Controlled Precipitation
Authors: Du Ningning , Zheng Ke , Zhang Jingshun , Qiu Liping , Zhang Yanjiang , Wei Xiaorong , Zhang Xingchang
Published: April 2023

Plant litter decomposition figures importantly in the cycling of C and N pools in terrestrial ecosystems. We investigated how C and N fluxes changed during the decomposition of leguminous and non-leguminous leaf litters, and how these processes responded to different precipitation regimes. We used the dual-isotope tracing method to investigate differences in leaf and soil C and N, along with δ13C and δ15N, in the soil of the Loess Plateau in China. The δ15N and δ13C values were 3604‰ and 56‰ for Robinia pseudoacacia (Leguminosae) and 8115‰ and 452‰ for Populus tomentosa (Salicaceae) leaf litters. Through decomposition, δ13C decreased in all litters, and δ15N in the leguminous litter increased while it decreased in the non-leguminous litter. In the surface soil, the fraction of litter-derived N (14%) from the leguminous litter was significantly higher than that of the non-leguminous litter after 16 months. The C and N concentrations of both litters and soil always had a positive correlation during decomposition, and the responses of N to C changes in soil were reduced by the litter cover. Increased precipitation enhanced the litters’ C and N correlation. The 600 mm precipitation treatment most benefited litter C’s transformation to SOC, and drought conditions promoted the transformation of legume litter N to soil TN, but inhibited non-legume litter N. In the soil and both litters, C and N changes always had a positive correlation. After 16 months, the proportion of soil N from legumes was higher than that from non-legumes. Reduced precipitation could promote leguminous N in soil. Our results provide a scientific basis for accurately predicting the C and N cycles in terrestrial ecosystems.
Trends in Animal Shelter Management, Adoption, and Animal Death in Taiwan from 2012 to 2020
Authors: Yan Tzu-Yun , Teng Kendy Tzu-yun
Published: April 2023

This current study investigated the trends in public animal shelter intakes and outcomes and the workload of shelter veterinarians in Taiwan from 2012 to 2020 and reports spatial, temporal, and socioeconomic factors associated with these trends. Information about the public animal shelter management of dogs and cats from all counties of Taiwan between 2012 and 2020 was acquired from the National Animal Shelter Management System of the Council of Agriculture Executive Yuan in Taiwan. Ridge regression followed by multivariable linear regression was conducted to examine the risk factors for animal intakes, outcomes, the number of adopted animals, and the estimated veterinary workload in public animal shelters. The intakes and outcomes of shelter animals significantly decreased over time. Euthanasia, which was performed in the shelters, was positively associated with shelter animal intakes and outcomes as it resulted in animal outcomes and thus facilitated the flow of animals in the shelters. Adoption and trap–neuter–vaccination–return, in replacement of euthanasia, became the main reasons for animal outcomes, and with every increase in human fertility rate, the monthly number of adopted animals over the number of animals entering shelters increased by 1.10% (95% CI: 0.21 to 2.00). The veterinary workload in the shelters of two counties exceeded what is regulated by law (i.e., 100 animals per veterinarian) in 2018 and increased to six counties in 2020. This current study reported important trends in the management of public animal shelters in Taiwan, the increasing workload of shelter veterinarians, and factors associated with these trends. It built the epidemiological foundation for future research on methods of improving shelter management and work conditions for shelter staff.
Aggregative Behaviour of Spiny Butterfly Rays (Gymnura altavela, Linnaeus, 1758) in the Shallow Coastal Zones of Gran Canaria in the Eastern Central Atlantic
Authors: Espino-Ruano Ana , Castro Jose J. , Guerra-Marrero Airam , Couce-Montero Lorena , Meyers Eva K. M. , Santana-del-Pino Angelo , Jimenez-Alvarado David
Published: April 2023

The presence of spiny butterfly rays, Gymnura altavela, in waters less than 20 m deep off the Canary Islands shows marked seasonality, with relatively high abundances in the summer and autumn. Large aggregations of sometimes hundreds of individuals, primarily females, appear in specific shallow areas of the archipelago and seem to be associated with the seasonal variation in water temperature. This seasonal pattern of presence or absence in shallow areas suggests that spiny butterfly rays migrate into deeper waters or other unknown areas during the rest of the year. G. altavela shows sexual dimorphism; in our study, females were larger and more abundant than males, with a sex ratio of 1:18.9. The species’ estimated asymptotic length, L∞, was 183.75 cm and thus close to the common length reported for the species (200 cm). The von Bertalanffy growth constant (k) oscillated between 0.210 and 0.310 year−1, as similarly described for the species in the Western North Atlantic off the U.S. coast. From June to November, the seawater temperature oscillated between 19 and 24 °C, and massive aggregations of females occurred at 22–24 °C and in a few specific sandy beaches on the islands. Spiny butterfly rays, mostly females, show a preference for aggregating in shallow waters during summertime, probably conditionate to mating or breeding behaviour.
YAP Inhibition Alleviates Simulated Microgravity-Induced Mesenchymal Stem Cell Senescence via Targeting Mitochondrial Dysfunction
Authors: Lv Wenjun , Peng Xiufen , Tu Yun , Shi Yisong , Song Guanbin , Luo Qing
Published: April 2023

Weightlessness in space leads to bone loss, muscle atrophy, and impaired immune defense in astronauts. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) play crucial roles in maintaining the homeostasis and function of the tissue. However, how microgravity affects the characteristics MSCs and the related roles in the pathophysiological changes in astronauts remain barely known. Here we used a 2D-clinostat device to simulate microgravity. Senescence-associated-β-galactosidase (SA-β-gal) staining and the expression of senescent markers p16, p21, and p53 were used to evaluate the senescence of MSCs. Mitochondrial membrane potential (mΔΨm), reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and ATP production were used to evaluate mitochondrial function. Western blot and immunofluorescence staining were used to investigate the expression and localization of Yes-associated protein (YAP). We found that simulated microgravity (SMG) induced MSC senescence and mitochondrial dysfunction. Mito-TEMPO (MT), a mitochondrial antioxidant, restored mitochondrial function and reversed MSC senescence induced by SMG, suggesting that mitochondrial dysfunction mediates SMG-induced MSC senescence. Further, it was found that SMG promoted YAP expression and its nuclear translocation in MSCs. Verteporfin (VP), an inhibitor of YAP, restored SMG-induced mitochondrial dysfunction and senescence in MSCs by inhibiting YAP expression and nuclear localization. These findings suggest that YAP inhibition alleviates SMG-induced MSC senescence via targeting mitochondrial dysfunction, and YAP may be a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of weightlessness-related cell senescence and aging.
Effects of β-Nicotinamide Mononucleotide, Berberine, and Cordycepin on Lipid Droplet Content and Developmental Ability of Vitrified Bovine Oocytes
Authors: Xu Xi , Yang Baigao , Zhang Hang , Feng Xiaoyi , Hao Haisheng , Du Weihua , Zhu Huabin , Khan Adnan , Khan Muhammad Zahoor , Zhang Peipei , Zhao Xueming
Published: April 2023

Oocyte vitrification is crucial for livestock reproduction, germplasm conservation, and human-assisted reproduction, but the overabundance of lipids is highly detrimental to oocyte development. It is necessary to reduce the lipid droplet content of oocytes before cryopreservation. This study analyzed the impact of β-nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN), berberine (BER), or cordycepin (COR) on various aspects of bovine oocytes, including lipid droplet content and the expression levels of genes related to lipid synthesis in bovine oocytes, development ability, reactive oxygen species (ROS), apoptosis, and the expression levels of genes associated with endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and mitochondrial function in vitrified bovine oocytes. The results of our study indicated that 1 μM NMN, 2.5 μM BER, and 1 μM COR were effective in reducing the lipid droplet content and suppressing the expression levels of genes involved in lipid synthesis in bovine oocytes. Our findings showed that the vitrified bovine oocytes treated with 1 μM of NMN had a significantly higher survival rate and better development ability compared to the other vitrified groups. Additionally, 1 μM NMN, 2.5 μM BER, and 1 μM COR decreased the levels of ROS and apoptosis, decreased the mRNA expression levels of genes involved in ER stress and mitochondrial fission but increased the mRNA expression levels of genes associated with mitochondrial fusion in the vitrified bovine oocytes. Our study results suggested that 1 μM NMN, 2.5 μM BER, and 1 μM COR effectively decreased the lipid droplet content and enhanced the development ability of vitrified bovine oocytes by lowering ROS levels, reducing ER stress, regulating mitochondrial function, and inhibiting apoptosis. Furthermore, the results showed that 1 μM NMN was more effective than 2.5 μM BER and 1 μM COR.
Substitution of Pork Fat with Beeswax-Structured Oleogels in Semi-Smoked Sausages
Authors: Igenbayev Aidyn , Ospankulova Gulnazym , Amirkhanov Shyngys , Aldiyeva Akmaral , Temirova Indira , Amirkhanov Kumarbek
Published: April 2023

The expansion of the assortment of low-saturated-fat sausages is a trend in healthy eating, and the use of alternative ways to reduce their saturated fat content is required. This study aimed to partially substitute pork fat with 7% and 10% oleogel, obtained by structuring sunflower oil with a two-component mixture of monoglyceride and beeswax, in the recipe for semi-smoked sausage. The physicochemical characteristics of the sausages were evaluated, and the fatty acid profile and sensory properties were analyzed. In the samples where pork fat was partially replaced with oleogel at 7% and 10%, there was a decrease in the content of saturated fatty acids (SFA) by 35% and 38%, respectively. The addition of oleogel to sausages significantly reduced the content of stearic and palmitic acid, increased the content of linoleic acid, and improved the fatty acid profile. The microstructure of the sausages showed a more homogeneous structure with a lower content of large lipid granules as the amount of oleogel added increased. The sensory analysis showed that the addition of 7% oleogel did not deteriorate the organoleptic properties. Therefore, the partial substitution of pork fat with 7% oleogel can be recommended to produce healthy sausages with improved fatty acid profile and sensory properties.
Ball-End Cutting Tool Posture Optimization for Robot Surface Milling Considering Different Joint Load
Authors: Li Xinyue , Lu Lei , Fan Cheng , Liang Fusheng , Sun Lining , Zhang Lei
Published: April 2023

Robots with openness and flexibility have attracted a large number of researchers to conduct in-depth studies in the field of surface machining. However, there is a redundant degree of freedom (DOF) in 6-DOF robot machining: when a ball end milling cutter is used to process curved parts, the tool point needs to strictly follow the planned milling trajectory, but the tool axis vector only needs to be within a certain range. During the machining process, the rotation of the tool around its axis is not constrained. Therefore, it is necessary to optimize the redundant DOF. Aiming at the redundant DOF of the tool axis vector in ball end milling for surface parts, a Redundancy Optimization strategy for Minimum Joint trajectory (ROMJ) is proposed. It takes the shortest trajectory of robot joints as the optimization objective, and the numerical optimization method is adopted to carry out the optimal design of tool axis vector trajectory in the milling process. Before optimization, to decrease the data volume, the number of track points is sampled and adjusted based on curve characterization errors. In the optimization process, considering the obvious difference in the load quality characteristics of the robot joints, a Redundancy Optimization strategy for Minimum Joint trajectory considering the different Load of joints (ROMJ-L) is proposed. The load difference coefficients of each joint are introduced into the optimization objective of the trajectory of robot joints. By using this method, the optimal design of each joint trajectory of the robot is realized. In order to verify the methods proposed in this paper, a comparison experiment is carried out. The results show that under the same tool point trajectory, the proposed methods can significantly reduce the robot joint trajectory, and the joint trajectory is influenced by the load difference of each joint. Finally, an Eflin-10 robot is used to process the butterfly trajectory tool path by the trajectory planned by the ROMJ-L method, and the results show that the method is practical.
Integrated Path Tracking Controller of Underground Articulated Vehicle Based on Nonlinear Model Predictive Control
Authors: Sun Nan , Zhang Wenming , Yang Jue
Published: April 2023

This paper proposes an integrated path tracking controller for articulated vehicles. A nonlinear model-predictive control (NMPC)-based reference state tracker is designed as an upper-level controller to solve the vehicle’s longitudinal velocity and steering rate. A terminal cost is introduced into the NMPC to improve the controller’s stability. A lower-level controller is developed to translate upper-level solutions into vehicle actuators’ signals, including steering and driving controllers. The steering controller translates the steering rate into the linear velocity of the cylinder to calculate the required fluid volume and ultimately into the rotation speed of the steering motor. The neural network method is applied in the driving controller to ensure accuracy under different loadings. In order to investigate the effects of the path tracking controller, an articulated dump truck is adapted for the field tests by adding the steering-by-wire system and driving-by-wire system, respectively. Experimental verifications of the lower-level controller are performed. The results show that the controller can accurately satisfy the demand. Finally, the tracking performance of the integrated path tracking controller is analyzed experimentally under different reference velocities. The results indicate that tracking accuracy can be guaranteed.
SybilHP: Sybil Detection in Directed Social Networks with Adaptive Homophily Prediction
Authors: Lu Haoyu , Gong Daofu , Li Zhenyu , Liu Feng , Liu Fenlin
Published: April 2023

Worries about the increasing number of Sybils in online social networks (OSNs) are amplified by a range of security issues; thus, Sybil detection has become an urgent real-world problem. Lightweight and limited data-friendly, LBP (Loopy Belief Propagation)-based Sybil-detection methods on the social graph are extensively adopted. However, existing LBP-based methods that do not utilize node attributes often assume a global or predefined homophily strength of edges in the social graph, while different user’s discrimination and preferences may vary, resulting in local homogeneity differences. Another issue is that the existing message-passing paradigm uses the same edge potential when propagating belief to both sides of a directed edge, which does not agree with the trust interaction in one-way social relationships. To bridge these gaps, we present SybilHP, a Sybil-detection method optimized for directed social networks with adaptive homophily prediction. Specifically, we incorporate an iteratively updated edge homophily estimation into the belief propagation to better adapt to the personal preferences of real-world social network users. Moreover, we endow message passing on edges with directionality by a direction-sensitive potential function design. As a result, SybilHP can better capture the local homophily and direction pattern in real-world social networks. Experiments show that SybilHP works with high detection accuracy on synthesized and real-world social graphs. Compared with various state-of-the-art graph-based methods on a large-scale Twitter dataset, SybilHP substantially outperforms existing methods.
Hybrid HP-BOA: An Optimized Framework for Reliable Storage of Cloud Data Using Hybrid Meta-Heuristic Algorithm
Authors: Tahir Adnan , Chen Fei , Hayat Bashir , Shaheen Qaisar , Ming Zhong , Ahmad Arshad , Kim Ki-Il , Lim Byung Hyun
Published: April 2023

The prime objective of the cloud data storage process is to make the service, irrespective of being infinitely extensible, a more reliable storage and low-cost model that also encourages different data storage types. Owing to the storage process, it must satisfy the cloud users’ prerequisites. Nevertheless, storing massive amounts of data becomes critical as this affectsthe data quality or integrity. Hence, this poses various challenges for existing methodologies. An efficient, reliable cloud storage model is proposed using a hybrid heuristic approach to overcome the challenges. The prime intention of the proposed system is to store the data effectively in the cloud environment by resolving two constraints, which are general and specific (structural). The cloud data were initially gathered and used to analyze the storage performance. Since the data were extensive, different datasets and storage devices were considered. Every piece of data was specified by its corresponding features, whereas the devices were characterized by the hardware or software components. Subsequently, the objective function was formulated using the network’s structural and general constraints. The structural constraints were determined by the interactions between the devices and data instances in the cloud. Then, the general constraints regarding the data allocation rules and device capacity were defined. To mitigate the constraints, the components were optimized using the Hybrid Pelican–Billiards Optimization Algorithm (HP-BOA) to store the cloud data. Finally, the performance was validated, and the results were analyzed and compared against existing approaches. Thus, the proposed model exhibited the desired results for storing cloud data appropriately.
A Study on Information Disorders on Social Networks during the Chilean Social Outbreak and COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Mendoza Marcelo , Valenzuela Sebastián , Núñez-Mussa Enrique , Padilla Fabián , Providel Eliana , Campos Sebastián , Bassi Renato , Riquelme Andrea , Aldana Valeria , López Claudia
Published: April 2023

Information disorders on social media can have a significant impact on citizens’ participation in democratic processes. To better understand the spread of false and inaccurate information online, this research analyzed data from Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. The data were collected and verified by professional fact-checkers in Chile between October 2019 and October 2021, a period marked by political and health crises. The study found that false information spreads faster and reaches more users than true information on Twitter and Facebook. Instagram, on the other hand, seemed to be less affected by this phenomenon. False information was also more likely to be shared by users with lower reading comprehension skills. True information, on the other hand, tended to be less verbose and generate less interest among audiences. This research provides valuable insights into the characteristics of misinformation and how it spreads online. By recognizing the patterns of how false information diffuses and how users interact with it, we can identify the circumstances in which false and inaccurate messages are prone to becoming widespread. This knowledge can help us to develop strategies to counter the spread of misinformation and protect the integrity of democratic processes.
Replay Speech Detection Based on Dual-Input Hierarchical Fusion Network
Authors: Hu Chenlei , Zhou Ruohua , Yuan Qingsheng
Published: April 2023

Speech anti-spoofing is a crucial aspect of speaker recognition systems and has received a great deal of attention in recent years. Deep neural networks have achieved satisfactory results in datasets with similar training and testing data distributions, but their generalization ability is limited in datasets with different distributions. In this paper, we proposed a novel dual-input hierarchical fusion network (HFN) to improve the generalization ability of our model. The network had two inputs (the original speech signal and the time-reversed signal), which increased the volume and diversity of the training data. The hierarchical fusion model (HFM) enabled more thorough fusion of information from different input levels and improved model performance by fusing the two inputs after speech feature extraction. We finally evaluated the results using the ASVspoof 2021 PA (Physical Access) dataset, and the proposed system achieved an Equal Error Rate (EER) of 24.46% and a minimum tandem Detection Cost Function (min t-DCF) of 0.6708 in the test set. Compared with the four baseline systems in the ASVspoof 2021 competition, the proposed system min t-DCF values were decreased by 28.9%, 31.0%, 32.6%, and 32.9%, and the EERs were decreased by 35.7%, 38.1%, 45.4%, and 49.7%, respectively.
Mechanism of Pulp Regeneration Based on Concentrated Growth Factors Regulating Cell Differentiation
Authors: Yu Sijing , Zheng Yi , Guo Qiang , Li Wenxu , Ye Ling , Gao Bo
Published: April 2023

Concentrated growth factors (CGF) is the newest generation platelet concentrate product, which has been reported to promote the proliferation and differentiation of human dental pulp cells (hDPCs). However, the effect of liquid phase of CGF (LPCGF) has not been reported. This study was aimed to evaluate the influence of LPCGF on the biological properties of hDPCs, and to explore the in vivo mechanism of dental pulp regeneration based on the hDPCs-LPCGF complex transplantation. It was found that LPCGF could promote the proliferation, migration and odontogenic differentiation of hDPCs, and 25% LPCGF induced the most mineralization nodule formation and the highest DSPP gene expression. The heterotopic transplantation of the hDPCs-LPCGF complex resulted in the formation of regenerative pulp tissue with newly formed dentin, neovascularization and nerve-like tissue. Together, these findings provide key data on the effect of LPCGF on the proliferation, migration, odontogenic/osteogenic differentiation of hDPCs, and the in vivo mechanism of hDPCs-LPCGF complex autologous transplantation in pulp regeneration therapy.
Therapeutic Potential of a Senolytic Approach in a Murine Model of Chronic GVHD
Authors: Raman Deepika , Chêne Charlotte , Nicco Carole , Jeljeli Mohamed , Eu Jie Qing , Clément Marie-Véronique , Batteux Frédéric , Pervaiz Shazib
Published: April 2023

Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) is a life-threatening systemic complication of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) characterized by dysregulation of T and B cell activation and function, scleroderma-like features, and multi-organ pathology. The treatment of cGVHD is limited to the management of symptoms and long-term use of immunosuppressive therapy, which underscores the need for developing novel treatment approaches. Notably, there is a striking similarity between cytokines/chemokines responsible for multi-organ damage in cGVHD and pro-inflammatory factors, immune modulators, and growth factors secreted by senescent cells upon the acquisition of senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). In this pilot study, we questioned the involvement of senescent cell-derived factors in the pathogenesis of cGVHD triggered upon allogeneic transplantation in an irradiated host. Using a murine model that recapitulates sclerodermatous cGVHD, we investigated the therapeutic efficacy of a senolytic combination of dasatinib and quercetin (DQ) administered after 10 days of allogeneic transplantation and given every 7 days for 35 days. Treatment with DQ resulted in a significant improvement in several physical and tissue-specific features, such as alopecia and earlobe thickness, associated with cGVHD pathogenesis in allograft recipients. DQ also mitigated cGVHD-associated changes in the peripheral T cell pool and serum levels of SASP-like cytokines, such as IL-4, IL-6 and IL-8Rα. Our results support the involvement of senescent cells in the pathogenesis of cGVHD and provide a rationale for the use of DQ, a clinically approved senolytic approach, as a potential therapeutic strategy.
Is Cancer Reversible? Rethinking Carcinogenesis Models—A New Epistemological Tool
Authors: Pensotti Andrea , Bertolaso Marta , Bizzarri Mariano
Published: April 2023

A growing number of studies shows that it is possible to induce a phenotypic transformation of cancer cells from malignant to benign. This process is currently known as “tumor reversion”. However, the concept of reversibility hardly fits the current cancer models, according to which gene mutations are considered the primary cause of cancer. Indeed, if gene mutations are causative carcinogenic factors, and if gene mutations are irreversible, how long should cancer be considered as an irreversible process? In fact, there is some evidence that intrinsic plasticity of cancerous cells may be therapeutically exploited to promote a phenotypic reprogramming, both in vitro and in vivo. Not only are studies on tumor reversion highlighting a new, exciting research approach, but they are also pushing science to look for new epistemological tools capable of better modeling cancer.
Molecular Mechanisms Driving and Regulating the AAA+ ATPase VCP/p97, an Important Therapeutic Target for Treating Cancer, Neurological and Infectious Diseases
Authors: Valimehr Sepideh , Sethi Ashish , Shukla Manjari , Bhattacharyya Sudipta , Kazemi Mohsen , Rouiller Isabelle
Published: April 2023

p97/VCP, a highly conserved type II ATPase associated with diverse cellular activities (AAA+ ATPase), is an important therapeutic target in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases and cancer. p97 performs a variety of functions in the cell and facilitates virus replication. It is a mechanochemical enzyme that generates mechanical force from ATP-binding and hydrolysis to perform several functions, including unfolding of protein substrates. Several dozens of cofactors/adaptors interact with p97 and define the multifunctionality of p97. This review presents the current understanding of the molecular mechanism of p97 during the ATPase cycle and its regulation by cofactors and small-molecule inhibitors. We compare detailed structural information obtained in different nucleotide states in the presence and absence of substrates and inhibitors. We also review how pathogenic gain-of-function mutations modify the conformational changes of p97 during the ATPase cycle. Overall, the review highlights how the mechanistic knowledge of p97 helps in designing pathway-specific modulators and inhibitors.
Structural Insight into the Mechanism of σ32-Mediated Transcription Initiation of Bacterial RNA Polymerase
Authors: Lu Qiang , Chen Taiyu , Wang Jiening , Wang Feng , Ye Wenlong , Ma Lixin , Wu Shan
Published: April 2023

Bacterial RNA polymerases (RNAP) form distinct holoenzymes with different σ factors to initiate diverse gene expression programs. In this study, we report a cryo-EM structure at 2.49 Å of RNA polymerase transcription complex containing a temperature-sensitive bacterial σ factor, σ32 (σ32-RPo). The structure of σ32-RPo reveals key interactions essential for the assembly of E. coli σ32-RNAP holoenzyme and for promoter recognition and unwinding by σ32. Specifically, a weak interaction between σ32 and −35/−10 spacer is mediated by T128 and K130 in σ32. A histidine in σ32, rather than a tryptophan in σ70, acts as a wedge to separate the base pair at the upstream junction of the transcription bubble, highlighting the differential promoter-melting capability of different residue combinations. Structure superimposition revealed relatively different orientations between βFTH and σ4 from other σ-engaged RNAPs and biochemical data suggest that a biased σ4–βFTH configuration may be adopted to modulate binding affinity to promoter so as to orchestrate the recognition and regulation of different promoters. Collectively, these unique structural features advance our understanding of the mechanism of transcription initiation mediated by different σ factors.
Pediatric Posterior Fossa ATRT: A Case Report, New Treatment Strategies and Perspectives
Authors: Paun Luca , Lavé Alexandre , Jannelli Gianpaolo , Egervari Kristof , Janssen Insa , Schaller Karl , von Bueren André O. , Bartoli Andrea
Published: April 2023

Posterior fossa atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumor (ATRT) is a rare childhood tumor usually associated with a dismal prognosis. Although upfront surgical gross total resection (GTR) has classically been the first line of treatment, new multimodal treatments, including two-stage surgery, are showing promising results in terms of overall survival (OS) and complication rate. We present a case of a 9-month-old child treated with two-staged surgery and chemotherapy. When deemed risky, multimodal treatments, including staged surgeries, can be a safe alternative to reduce surgical mortality and morbidity. At 23 months old, the patient had normal global development and no major impact on quality of life. We, therefore, discuss the most recent advancements from a treatment perspective, including molecular targeting.
Research and Diagnostic Algorithmic Rules (RADAR) and RADAR Plots for the First Episode of Major Depressive Disorder: Effects of Childhood and Recent Adverse Experiences on Suicidal Behaviors, Neurocognition and Phenome Features
Authors: Maes Michael , Almulla Abbas F.
Published: April 2023

Recent studies have proposed valid precision models and valid Research and Diagnostic Algorithmic Rules (RADAR) for recurrent major depressive disorder (MDD). The aim of the current study was to construct precision models and RADAR scores in patients experiencing first-episode MDD and to examine whether adverse childhood experiences (ACE) and negative life events (NLE) are associated with suicidal behaviors (SB), cognitive impairment, and phenome RADAR scores. This study recruited 90 patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) in an acute phase, of whom 71 showed a first-episode MDD (FEM), and 40 controls. We constructed RADAR scores for ACE; NLE encountered in the last year; SB; and severity of depression, anxiety, chronic fatigue, and physiosomatic symptoms using the Hamilton Depression and Anxiety Rating Scales and the FibroFatigue scale. The partial least squares analysis showed that in FEM, one latent vector (labeled the phenome of FEM) could be extracted from depressive, anxiety, fatigue, physiosomatic, melancholia, and insomnia symptoms, SB, and cognitive impairments. The latter were conceptualized as a latent vector extracted from the Verbal Fluency Test, the Mini-Mental State Examination, and ratings of memory and judgement, indicating a generalized cognitive decline (G-CoDe). We found that 60.8% of the variance in the FEM phenome was explained by the cumulative effects of NLE and ACE, in particular emotional neglect and, to a lesser extent, physical abuse. In conclusion, the RADAR scores and plots constructed here should be used in research and clinical settings, rather than the binary diagnosis of MDD based on the DSM-5 or ICD.
Sinomenine Protects against Early Brain Injury by Inhibiting Microglial Inflammatory Response via Nrf2-Dependent Pathway after Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Authors: Fu Chuanjing , Xin Heng , Qian Zhengting , Li Xiang , Gao Juemin , Fan Youwu , Tang Yong , Shi Yan , Li Ding , Wu Heming
Published: April 2023

Microglial activation and sustained inflammation plays an important role in the processes of early brain injury (EBI) after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Sinomenine (SIN) has been demonstrated to have neuroprotective effects in the traumatic brain injury (TBI) model. However, the role of SIN in SAH-induced EBI and its latent mechanisms remain unclear. This study was carried out to explore the role of SIN on SAH-induced EBI and its effects on the microglial inflammatory response following SAH. In this study, a model of SAH in rats was established. Modified neurological severity scores (mNSS), encephaledema, and Nissl staining were employed to determine the effects of SIN. Western blot and immunofluorescence analysis were performed to evaluate nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) expression. Nrf2-related downstream proteins, including heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and quinine oxidoreductase-1 (NQO-1), were detected with immunohistochemistry analyses and Real-Time Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-qPCR). Microglia activation and associated inflammatory factors, factor-kappa B (NF-κB), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and interleukin-6 (IL-6), were assessed after SAH. The results showed that SIN administration improved neurobehavior function, and attenuated neural apoptosis and brain edema after SAH. In addition, SIN inhibited microglial action and the subsequent inflammatory response after SAH through the upregulated expression of HO-1 and NQO-1 via activation of the Nrf2 pathway. These results demonstrated that SIN supplementation provided protection against SAH-induced neuronal apoptosis by microglial inflammatory response regulation and possible involvement of the Nrf2 pathway.
Family Functioning as an Explanatory Factor of Empathic Behavior in Argentine Medical Students
Authors: Ulloque María J. , Villalba Silvina , Foscarini Gabriela , Quinteros Susana , Calzadilla-Núñez Aracelis , Reyes-Reyes Alejandro , Díaz-Narváez Víctor
Published: April 2023

Empathy is a relevant competence in the study and practice of medicine whose development could depend on the functioning style of each family. This study aims to compare the distribution of empathy levels, about functionality or dysfunction, and the three styles, which can be derived from family functioning in the families of Argentine medical students. Previously providing evidence of the validity of the family functioning measure. As well as provide evidence of the validity of the measure of family functioning. Methods: Ex post facto design: 306 Argentine medical students who had already taken the Jefferson Scale of Empathy—Spanish Edition (JSE-S) and the abbreviated Spanish Family Adaptability and Cohesion Evaluation Scale (FACES-20). A gender-weighted linear regression analysis was made, establishing an ANOVA and multiple comparisons via DMS to determine the effect of functional and dysfunctional families’ balanced, intermediate and extreme functioning styles concerning empathy. Results: Students who presented dysfunction in familial cohesion and adaptability showed measures of empathy greater than those classified as functional. Differences of cohesion were statistically significant in compassionate care, perspective taking and general empathy. These components were significantly higher in students from families classified as extreme than balanced ones. Students classified within families with either extreme or dysfunctional styles showed greater levels of empathy than more adaptive and functional ones, except in the ‘walking in patient’s shoes’ component where differences were not observed. Conclusions: Individual resilience as an intervening variable in the presence of empathy is discussed. Implications: The study of empathy, its associated variables, and the conditions of its development remains a central theme in relation to students and professionals of the health sciences. To achieve an effective professional practice, it is necessary to develop human capacities such as empathy and personal resilience.
Preventing, Mitigating, and Treating Women’s Perinatal Mental Health Problems during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Scoping Review of Reviews with a Qualitative Narrative Synthesis
Authors: Grussu Pietro , Jorizzo Gianfranco J. , Alderdice Fiona , Quatraro Rosa Maria
Published: April 2023

Meeting the mental health needs of perinatal women during the COVID-19 pandemic is a serious concern. This scoping review looks at how to prevent, mitigate or treat the mental health problems faced by women during a pandemic, and lays out suggestions for further research. Interventions for women with pre-existing mental health problems or health problems that develop during the perinatal period are included. The literature in English published in 2020–2021 is explored. Hand searches were conducted in PubMed and PsychINFO using the terms COVID-19, perinatal mental health and review. A total of 13 systematic and scoping reviews and meta-analyses were included. This scoping review shows that every woman should be assessed for mental health issues at every stage of her pregnancy and postpartum, with particular attention to women with a history of mental health problems. In the COVID-19 era, efforts should be focused on reducing the magnitude of stress and a perceived sense of lack of control experienced by perinatal women. Helpful instructions for women with perinatal mental health problems include mindfulness, distress tolerance skills, relaxation exercises, and interpersonal relationship building skills. Further longitudinal multicenter cohort studies could help improve the current knowledge. Promoting perinatal resilience and fostering positive coping skills, mitigating perinatal mental health problems, screening all prenatal and postpartum women for affective disorders, and using telehealth services appear to be indispensable resources. In future, governments and research agencies will need to pay greater attention to the trade-offs of reducing the spread of the virus through lockdowns, physical distancing, and quarantine measures and developing policies to mitigate the mental health impact on perinatal women.
The Reinforcing Effect of Nano-Modified Epoxy Resin on the Failure Behavior of FRP-Plated RC Structures
Authors: De Maio Umberto , Gaetano Daniele , Greco Fabrizio , Lonetti Paolo , Nevone Blasi Paolo , Pranno Andrea
Published: April 2023

The ability to manipulate concrete-based and composite materials at the nanoscale represents an innovative approach to improving their mechanical properties and designing high-performance building structures. In this context, a numerical investigation of the reinforcing effect of nano-modified epoxy resin on the structural response of fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP)-plated reinforced concrete (RC) components has been proposed. In detail, an integrated model, based on a cohesive crack approach, is employed in combination with a bond–slip model to perform a failure analysis of strengthened structures. In particular, the proposed model consists of cohesive elements located on the physical interface between concrete and FRP systems equipped with an appropriate bond–slip law able to describe the reinforcing effect induced by the incorporation of nanomaterials in the bonding epoxy resin. Preliminary analyses, performed on reinforced concrete prisms, highlight an increment of 28% in the bond strength between concrete and the FRP system, offered by the nanomaterials embedded in the adhesive layer with respect to the standard one. Moreover, the numerically predicted structural response of a nano-modified FRP-plated beam shows an increment of around 5.5% in the failure load and a reduction in the slip between concrete and the FRP plate of around 76%, with respect to the reinforced beam without nanomaterial incorporation. Finally, the good agreement with experimental results, taken from the literature, highlights the excellent capability of the proposed model to simulate the mechanical behavior of such types of reinforced structures, emphasizing the beneficial effects of the nano-enhanced epoxy resin on the bond strength between concrete and FRP systems.
A Review of Digital Twin Applications in Civil and Infrastructure Emergency Management
Authors: Cheng Ruijie , Hou Lei , Xu Sheng
Published: April 2023

Natural disasters can cause severe damages to civil infrastructure and lead to extensive economic losses and casualties. To improve the emergency response capability of civil infrastructure under extreme circumstances such as natural disasters and human-caused hazards, intelligent technology for infrastructure emergency management has been extensively studied. As an emerging paradigm of interdisciplinary convergence, digital twins (DTs) can integrate intelligent technology into different stages of emergency management and provide a new solution for the emergency management of civil infrastructure (EMCI). However, applications of DT in EMCI have several limitations and are mostly case by case. However, the sector needs more generalisable lessons to address the greater value of DT in the context of EMCI. To address this gap, we first carry out a systematic literature review and analyse the latest progress and previous research deficiencies of DT by taking the scientometrical approach. Next, a framework is proposed to explain how DT can be applied to the mitigation, preparation, response, and recovery stages of EMCI. Lastly, the trends and prospects of DT applications in EMCI are discussed. Overall, the knowledge gained from this study will promote the research and development of more-viable DTs to address the sector’s demand for emergency management.
Mitigating Indoor Air Pollution in University Dormitory: The Need for Better Ventilation and Resident Awareness
Authors: Jung Chuloh , El Samanoudy Gamal
Published: April 2023

Due to the expansion of the education industry in Dubai, universities have built many dormitories. Even though Dubai has a robust indoor air quality (IAQ) stipulation for public and educational buildings, dormitories must be included. IAQ in newly constructed university dormitories can be significantly influenced by emissions from furniture made from materials such as plywood, medium-density fiberboard (MDF), or particle board (PB) that contains formaldehyde (HCHO). This study aimed to investigate and improve the IAQ in a newly constructed university dormitory. As a methodology, the study measured the concentrations of total volatile organic compound (TVOC) and HCHO in three identical rooms on different floors of a newly constructed dormitory. The experiment results showed that TVOC and HCHO were generally high, ranging from 0.23 to 18.4 ppm, up to two months after in the new dormitory, but they tended to decrease over time. The two primary factors contributing to the decrease in these pollutants were increased ventilation and reduced occupancy. Comparing the three rooms provided valuable insights into the factors influencing indoor air quality, such as the amount of infiltration through the window gaps, cooling temperatures, and humidity. The study suggests that the air quality in indoor environments can be improved by increasing ventilation, reducing occupancy, and managing the use of household items that emit pollutants. The findings can inform strategies to enhance building IAQ, promoting occupant health and well-being. From these findings, TVOC concentrations in room 1A decreased from 6.57 ppm at the first measurement to 0.13 ppm at the third measurement, while room 3B showed a decrease from 18.4 ppm to 1.16 ppm, and room 5C showed a decrease from 12.5 ppm to 0.93 ppm. HCHO concentrations also decreased, with room 1A decreasing from 2.56 ppm to 0.22 ppm, room 3B decreasing from 4.50 ppm to 2.82 ppm, and room 5C decreasing from 6.88 ppm to 2.15 ppm over the same period.
Cancer Stem Cells in Sarcomas: In Vitro Isolation and Role as Prognostic Markers: A Systematic Review
Authors: Chico Maria Angeles , Mesas Cristina , Doello Kevin , Quiñonero Francisco , Perazzoli Gloria , Ortiz Raul , Prados Jose , Melguizo Consolacion
Published: April 2023

Sarcomas are a diverse group of neoplasms with an incidence rate of 15% of childhood cancers. They exhibit a high tendency to develop early metastases and are often resistant to available treatments, resulting in poor prognosis and survival. In this context, cancer stem cells (CSCs) have been implicated in recurrence, metastasis, and drug resistance, making the search for diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers of the disease crucial. The objective of this systematic review was to analyze the expression of CSC biomarkers both after isolation from in vitro cell lines and from the complete cell population of patient tumor samples. A total of 228 publications from January 2011 to June 2021 was retrieved from different databases, of which 35 articles were included for analysis. The studies demonstrated significant heterogeneity in both the markers detected and the CSC isolation techniques used. ALDH was identified as a common marker in various types of sarcomas. In conclusion, the identification of CSC markers in sarcomas may facilitate the development of personalized medicine and improve treatment outcomes.
Skin Cancer Correlations in Psoriatic Patients
Authors: Costache Daniel , Blejan Horia , Poenaru Marcela , Costache Raluca
Published: April 2023

Psoriasis is a common chronic, immune-mediated, inflammatory disease with associated comorbidities. Common psoriasis-associated comorbidities include psoriatic arthritis, cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, inflammatory digestive syndromes, and depression. A less studied association is between psoriasis and specific-site cancers. A key cell in the pathophysiology of psoriasis is the myeloid dendritic cell, which links the innate and adaptive immune systems, and therefore is involved in the control of cancer-prevention mechanisms. The relationship between cancer and inflammation is not new, with inflammation being recognized as a key element in the development of neoplastic foci. Infection leads to the development of local chronic inflammation, which further leads to the accumulation of inflammatory cells. Various phagocytes produce reactive oxygen species that cause mutations in cellular DNA and lead to the perpetuation of cells with altered genomes. Therefore, in inflammatory sites, there will be a multiplication of cells with damaged DNA, leading to tumor cells. Over the years, scientists have tried to assess the extent to which psoriasis can increase the risk of developing skin cancer. Our aim is to review the available data and present some information that might help both the patients and the care providers in properly managing psoriatic patients to prevent skin cancer development.
Review of the Tumor Microenvironment in Basal and Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Chiang Elizabeth , Stafford Haleigh , Buell Jane , Ramesh Uma , Amit Moran , Nagarajan Priyadharsini , Migden Michael , Yaniv Dan
Published: April 2023

It is widely known that tumor cells of basal and squamous cell carcinoma interact with the cellular and acellular components of the tumor microenvironment to promote tumor growth and progression. While this environment differs for basal and squamous cell carcinoma, the cellular players within both create an immunosuppressed environment by downregulating effector CD4+ and CD8+ T cells and promoting the release of pro-oncogenic Th2 cytokines. Understanding the crosstalk that occurs within the tumor microenvironment has led to the development of immunotherapeutic agents, including vismodegib and cemiplimab to treat BCC and SCC, respectively. However, further investigation of the TME will provide the opportunity to discover novel treatment options.