bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Treatment outcomes in non-occlusive mesenteric ischemia and post-treatment return to social activities
Authors: Ohira Gaku , Hayano Koichi , Tochigi Toru , Maruyama Tetsuro , Toyozumi Takeshi , Kurata Yoshihiro , Maruyama Michihiro , Arai Satoko , Nakada Taka-Aki , Matsubara Hisahiro
Published: August 2024

Purpose

To investigate the treatment outcomes of patients with non-occlusive mesenteric ischemia (NOMI) at our institution, we focused on their post-treatment return to social activities.

Methods

This study included patients with suspected NOMI who were referred to our department between 2011 and 2023. In-hospital mortality was also investigated as a prognostic factor. The Glasgow–Pittsburgh Outcome Categories (GPOC) score was used to evaluate the return to social activities. The relationship between in-hospital mortality and GPOC scores and patient background and treatment factors was examined.

Results

Eighty-two patients were included in the study. Among them, 54 (65.9%) died during hospitalization. Only 9 patients (11%) returned to their social activities. In the multivariate analysis, non-surgical management was found to be the only independent factor for in-hospital mortality. Positive portal venous gas on computed tomography, no open abdomen, no pre-onset catecholamine administration, platelet count < 100,000/µL, lactate level < 5 mmol/L, APTT < 46 s, and Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score < 11 were factors significantly associated with an increased likelihood of return to social activities.

Conclusion

This is the first study to assess the post-treatment return to social activities among patients with NOMI. Our findings highlight the concerning reality that survivors may face prolonged dependence on medical care.
Estimating Time-to-Failure and Long-Term Strength of Rocks Based on Creep Strain Rate Model
Authors: Aghajanzadeh Mohammadreza , Masoumi Hossein , Heidarpour Amin , Alejano Leandro R.
Published: August 2024

Sustainable mining development requires structures on or within rock masses that can withstand deformation over a long period without compromising safety. Understanding of time-dependent behaviour of rocks is essential for such a purpose which is commonly investigated under sustained loading or so-called “creep” condition within the laboratory environment. A large number of experimental and analytical studies have examined creep behaviour of different rock types. However, some questions have still remained unanswered, particularly regarding the estimation of long-term strength of rocks and predicting their time-to-failure. This study proposes a novel method for prediction of time-to-failure of rock materials under creep loading governed by the secondary creep strain rate as well as estimation of their long-term strength through laboratory data. To do so, six different stress magnitudes ranging from 0.4 to 0.95 of the uniaxial compressive strength were selected for conventional creep compressive tests on Gosford sandstone. Throughout each experiment, the stress magnitude was kept constant until the sample reached failure. The results demonstrated that the secondary creep strain rate is strongly dependent on the magnitude of applied stress. A mere 10% reduction in the applied stress resulted in a decrease in the secondary creep strain rate of approximately three orders of magnitude. The proposed approach for time-to-failure prediction under creep loading included utilisation of secondary creep strain rates as a set of predictive indicators to overcome inherent variability or heterogeneity in rocks. Finally, the validation study was conducted based on the creep data obtained from various rock types to highlight consistent linear correlation between the secondary creep strain rate and the time-to-failure regardless of the magnitude of applied stress. Such an innovative approach can be a suitable tool for practitioners to better predict the stability of rock structures subjected to long-term loading leading to sustainable mining operation.
Synthesis and characterization of polysaccharide-cryogel and its application to the electrochemical detection of DNA
Authors: Tunca Nilay , Maral Meltem , Yildiz Esma , Sengel Sultan Butun , Erdem Arzum
Published: August 2024

The main goal of our study is to demonstrate the applicability of the PPy-cryogel-modified electrodes for electrochemical detection of DNA. First, a polysaccharide-based cryogel was synthesized. This cryogel was then used as a template for chemical polypyrrole synthesis. This prepared polysaccharide-based conductive cryogel was used for electrochemical biosensing on DNA. Carrageenan (CG) and sodium alginate (SA) polysaccharides, which stand out as biocompatible materials, were used in cryogel synthesis. Electron transfer was accelerated by polypyrrole (PPy) synthesized in cryogel networks. A 2B pencil graphite electrode with a diameter of 2.00 mm was used as a working electrode. The prepared polysaccharide solution was dropped onto a working electrode as a support material to improve the immobilization capacity of biomolecules and frozen to complete the cryogelation step. PPy synthesis was performed on the electrodes whose cryogelation process was completed. In addition, the structures of cryogels synthesized on the electrode surface were characterized by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Surface characterization of the modified electrodes was performed by energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) analysis. Electrochemical determination of fish sperm DNA (fsDNA) was performed using a PPy-cryogel-modified electrode. The use of a porous 3D cryogel intermediate material enhanced the signal by providing a large surface area for the synthesis of PPy and increasing the biomolecule immobilization capacity. The detection limit was 0.98 µg mL−1 in the fsDNA concentration range 2.5–20 µg mL−1. The sensitivity of the DNA biosensor was estimated to 14.8 µA mM−1 cm−2. The stability of the biosensor under certain storage conditions was examined and observed to remain 66.95% up to 45 days.

Graphical Abstract
A novel modeling approach on the water–electricity–climate nexus in the context of resource sustainability
Authors: Coskun Dilcan Cigdem , Aydinalp Koksal Merih
Published: August 2024

Water and energy have become essential resources and must be wisely managed for a sustainable future. This paper explores the relationship between water consumption and electricity generation in hydropower plants with dams under different climate change scenarios to contribute to the policy perspectives with a new tool and method to sustain the future. Still, as a reliable forecasting tool, the evaluation of the adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system model has not been tested for forecasting water consumption during electricity generation. Thus, this study uses this modeling approach to generate reliable water consumption estimates based on electricity generation. The operational data of 78 hydroelectric power plants with dams and meteorological parameters were used as input variables, while water consumption was the output parameter in the model. The dataset was randomly divided into training and testing sets, and 85–15% data splitting presented the best-fitted model. The lowest mean average percent error of the hydroelectric power plants' model resulted in 9.59%, and the coefficient of determination of the model was 0.97, which showed that the developed model presented acceptable prediction performance. Various climate change scenarios are applied to analyze the effects of climate parameters on the water consumption of hydropower plants. The annual hydroelectric power plant water consumption and water intensity were estimated between 2,609 million m3 and 4,393 million m3, and 50,768 m3/GWh and 85,487 m3/GWh, respectively, based on climate change scenarios. The study concludes with significant policy suggestions to endorse this approach.

Graphical abstract
CmirC update 2024: a multi-omics database for clustered miRNAs
Authors: Ware Akshay Pramod , Satyamoorthy Kapaettu , Paul Bobby
Published: August 2024

Clustered miRNAs consist of two or more miRNAs transcribed together and may coordinately regulate gene expression. Differential expression of clustered miRNAs is found to be controlled by crosstalk of genetic or epigenetic mechanisms. It has been demonstrated that clustered miRNA expression patterns greatly impact cancer cell progression. With the CmirC initiative, we initially developed a comprehensive database to identify copy number variation (CNV) driven clustered miRNAs in cancer. Now, we extended the analysis and identified three miRNAs, mir-96, mir-183, and mir-21, were found to be significantly upregulated in 17 cancer types. Further, CmirC is now upgraded to determine the impact of changes in the DNA methylation status at clustered miRNAs by utilizing The Cancer Genomic Atlas (TCGA) cancer datasets. We examined specific methylation datasets from 9,639 samples, pinpointing 215,435 methylation sites and 27,949 CpG islands with miRNA cluster information. The integrated analysis identified 34 clusters exhibiting differentially methylated CpG sites across 14 cancer types. Furthermore, we determined that CpG islands in the promoter region of 20 miRNA clusters could play a regulatory role. Along with ensuring a straightforward and convenient user experience, CmirC has been updated with improved data browsing and analysis functionalities, as well as enabled hyperlinks to literature and miR-cancer databases. The enhanced version of CmirC is anticipated to play an important role in providing information on the regulation of clustered miRNA expression, and their targeted oncogenes and tumor suppressors. The newly updated version of CmirC is available at https://slsdb.manipal.edu/cmirclust/.
Complete autonomic blockade reveals nitric oxide contribution to blood pressure regulation in obese Black women
Authors: Rahman Sharla , Gamboa Alfredo , Saleem Mohammad , Kulapatana Surat , Diedrich André , Biaggioni Italo , Kirabo Annet , Shibao Cyndya A.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Hypertension is one of the major causes of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in the USA and disproportionately affects Black women. Endothelial-derived nitric oxide (eNO) substantially regulates blood pressure in humans, and impaired NO-mediated vasodilation has been reported in the Black population. Previous studies using an NO synthase inhibitor, NG-monomethyl-L-arginine (L-NMMA) did not fully determine the NO contribution to blood pressure because of baroreflex buffering. Therefore, in the present study we used trimethaphan, a ganglionic blocker, to inhibit baroreflex buffering and study NO modulation of blood pressure in Black women during L-NMMA infusion.

Methods

L-NMMA at doses of 250 μg/kg per minute was infused in combination with trimethaphan at doses of 4 mg/min to eliminate baroreflex mechanisms. Heart rate (HR) was obtained with continuous electrocardiogram monitoring, and continuous blood pressure was measured with the volume clamp method. The increase in systolic blood pressure (SBP) during both infusions was used to estimate the contribution of NO to blood pressure.

Results

Ten Black (age range 30–50 years, body mass index [BMI] 30–45 kg/m2), and nine White women (age range 30–50 years, body mass index 30–45 kg/m2) were enrolled in this study. During autonomic blockade, there was no difference in the decrease in SBP between Black and White women (− 20 ± 16.45 vs. − 24 ± 15.49 mm Hg, respectively; P = 0.659). When autonomic blockade was combined with L-NMMA, Black women had a significant increase in SBP compared to White women (54 ± 13.62 vs. 39 ± 09.64 mm Hg, respectively; P = 0.022, respectively).

Conclusion

Autonomic blood pressure regulation was similar between Black and White women. However, NO contribution to blood pressure was significantly greater in Black women compared to White women.

Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01122407.
Compact RTK for expanded area (COREA): a new method for carrier-phase-based satellite augmentation system
Authors: Kim Donguk , Kim Bu-Gyeom , Kee Changdon
Published: August 2024

This study proposes a new concept of carrier-phase-based satellite augmentation system named “Compact Real-time Kinematic for Expanded Area (COREA),” which provides centimeter-level positioning services across nationwide coverage. The proposed system’s architecture is very similar to that of the satellite-based augmentation system (SBAS), a meter-level aviation safety service. While network real-time kinematic and precise-point-positioning-RTK (PPP-RTK) rely on several densely positioned reference stations, COREA provides carrier-phase-based corrections using a few reference stations with a distance of 400–1000 km. Furthermore, the COREA corrections can be transmitted by satellite signals with extremely low-speed data links of 250 bps, similar to SBAS. This study focused on the generation method for satellite code/phase clock (CPC) corrections, which is the most significant part of the system. We analyzed the user performance of the COREA system constructed in the Midwest and South of the United States with six reference stations. Consequently, satellite CPC corrections are resilient to communication failures and highly accurate in identifying user integer ambiguity. The 95% position accuracy is approximately 1.8 cm horizontally and 7.1 cm vertically, with an average convergence time of 1–3 min using only GPS triple-frequency signals. In summary, the COREA system preserves the hardware architecture of the legacy SBAS while providing centimeter-level services with fast convergence times by utilizing extremely low-speed satellite data links across the country.
Advancing the understanding of earthquake risk in Portugal
Authors: Lopes Gonçalo Correia , Silva Vitor , Costa Catarina , Vicente Romeu , Oliveira Carlos Sousa
Published: August 2024

The assessment of earthquake risk at the national scale is crucial for the design and implementation of risk reduction measures. Due to its location in the southwest of the Eurasian plate, Portugal is exposed to moderate to strong seismic events, such as the well-known 1755 Lisbon earthquake. We reviewed existing studies covering exposure, seismic hazard, vulnerability, and risk assessment for Portugal, and performed probabilistic seismic hazard and risk analyses for the country using new model components. These include a new exposure model developed for the residential building stock using the 2021 national Building Census Survey, a recent exposure model for commercial and industrial buildings, updated vulnerability functions for 116 building classes, and the recently released European Probabilistic Seismic Hazard model. The seismic risk results include average annual economic losses, fatalities, buildings with complete damage, and population left homeless. These results allowed the identification of the regions in Portugal with the highest earthquake risk, as well as which building classes contribute the most to the overall impact.
Measuring Character Strengths and Promoting Positive Youth Development in Zambia: Initial Findings from the GROW Hopes for Life Study
Authors: Tirrell Jonathan M. , Sampa Mutale , Wootten Kit , Harris Sion Kim , McGrath Robert E. , Mulavu Mataanana , Sindano Ntazana , Kasanga Lameck , Mweemba Oliver , Seale Dana McDaniel , Seale J. Paul , Mutale Wilbroad
Published: August 2024

Background

The Global Resilience Oral Workshops (GROW) Free and Strong programs take a strengths-based, positive youth development (PYD) approach to promoting thriving. Through both prevention (GROW Strong) and intervention (GROW Free) exercises, these programs aim to build character and emotional resilience while also lowering unhealthy alcohol use.

Objective

To meaningfully assess the impact of the GROW programs on health and PYD, ecologically and psychometrically valid measures of character strengths were needed, with a focus on the strengths of hope, forgiveness, spirituality, prudence, and self-control (self-regulation) promoted by GROW.

Method

We tested a series of exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses of these five key constructs using two samples: a school-based youth sample enrolled in GROW Strong (n = 460; Mage = 15.04 years, SDage = 1.21; 53.0% female); and a community-based adult sample enrolled in GROW Free (n = 457; Mage = 20.60 years, SDage = 1.88; 49.7% female); both enrolled using a waitlist-control design.

Results

Measures demonstrated strong invariance across specific subgroups present in the data sets, with differences emerging across ages, urban/rural locations, and baseline study conditions.

Conclusions

To meaningfully document PYD programs and character development in the majority world, measurement models must be theory-predicated, robust, and empirically validated for the specific context. The results provide evidence for such a measure that will be useful in future intervention studies promoting character strengths to address unhealthy alcohol use in Zambia.
Self aeration and energy dissipation on a steep stepped chute: how does physical modelling compare to prototype observations?
Authors: Chanson Hubert , Hu Jiayue
Published: August 2024

For the last five decades, a number of overflow stepped chutes were built because the staircase shape is conducive to reduced construction costs and increased rate of energy dissipation. The stepped chute operations are characterised by air‐water flows that are highly turbulent flows with a large rate of energy dissipation, in comparison to smooth chutes. Herein, physical measurements were performed in a large‐size 1 V: 0.80H stepped chute model, with a steep slope typical of modern concrete gravity dams. The results are compared to visual observations of prototype spillway operation under Froude similar conditions. The detailed two‐phase flow measurements were conducted to characterise finely the self‐aeration and air diffusion process downstream of the inception region of free‐surface aeration. The bubble count rate profiles scaled with the instantaneous void fraction variance, and the relationship was biased close to the stepped invert under the influence of large‐scale vortical structures. The rate of energy dissipation was carefully estimated based upon the two‐phase flow measurements and the results are compared to earlier results on similar steep invert slopes and prototype data estimates. At the downstream end of the stepped chute, the rate of energy dissipation ranged from 43 to 46%, i.e. more than twice that on a smooth-invert chute for a similar chute length and discharge range.

Graphical abstract

Characteristics of self-aerated stepped chute flows for dc/h = 1.3—(I) Prototype flow at Hinze Dam (Re = 4.0 × 107); (II) Air-water flow properties in the large-size laboratory model (1:15) stepped spillway (Re = 6.1 × 105)
Domestic Violence in Pregnant Trauma Patients: A Multicenter Analysis
Authors: Alvarez Claudia , Nahmias Jeffry , Lucas Alexa N. , Fierro Nicole , Dhillon Navpreet K. , Ley Eric J. , Smith Jennifer , Burruss Sigrid , Dahan Alden , Johnson Arianne , Ganske William , Biffl Walter L. , Bayat Dunya , Castelo Matthew , Wintz Diane , Zheng Dennis J. , Tillou Areti , Coimbra Raul , Tuli Rahul , Santorelli Jarrett E. , Emigh Brent , Schellenberg Morgan , Inaba Kenji , Duncan Thomas K. , Diaz Graal , Tay-Lasso Erika , Aryan Negaar , Zezoff Danielle C. , Grigorian Areg
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Domestic violence (DV) during pregnancy is associated with a higher incidence of obstetric complications. This study aimed to identify the injury profile and outcomes of pregnant trauma patients (PTPs) presenting after DV. We hypothesize that PTPs presenting after DV have a higher rate of fetal delivery (FD) and adverse maternal outcomes, compared to propensity-matched PTPs sustaining non-DV trauma.

Methods

PTPs ≥ 18 years old were included in this post-hoc analysis of a multicenter retrospective (2016–2021) study at 12 Level-I/II trauma centers. An unmatched and a 1:2 propensity-matched analyses of PTPs presenting with mechanisms involving and not involving DV were performed.

Results

From 950 patients, 70 (7.4%) PTPs presented after DV. The median age of PTPs presenting after DV was 26 years, the most common ethnicity was Hispanic (40%), and the most common mechanism and injury type were assault (85.7%) and abdominal injury (11.4%). PTPs presenting after DV had a higher rate of head injury (10% vs. 4.2%, p = 0.026). There was no difference in maternal complications and rate of FD (p > 0.05). These results did not change in the 1:2 propensity-matched analysis.

Conclusion

Our study found a higher rate of head injuries among PTPs presenting after DV compared to similarly matched PTPs presenting after non-DV trauma. However, no significant differences were observed in the rate of FD or maternal and fetal complications. Examining the effectiveness of universal screening for DV in the trauma setting and prenatal care may help optimize care delivery and support services for affected PTPs.
Interactions between small organic molecules and water measured using pressure perturbation calorimetry
Authors: Toronjo-Urquiza Luis , Besford Quinn Alexander , Falconer Robert John
Published: August 2024

Aqueous liquid mixtures play a critical role in many biological and chemical processes. Solutes including sugars, sugar alcohols, carboxylic acids, alcohols and acetone can affect the hydrogen-bonded structure of water and this can be measured using pressure perturbation calorimetry (PPC). In binary water–solute mixtures, Δ(∂CP/∂P)T is a measure of the structure of the water component. At low alcohol concentrations, negative Δ(∂CP/∂P)T values are consistent with clathrate-like water cages around the alkyl moieties. Conversely, when solutes hydrogen bond with water it interferes in the formation of “ice-like” water and is observable as a positive Δ(∂CP/∂P)T. The Δ(∂CP/∂P)T at increasing concentrations of ethanol, acetone and acetic acid in water displayed very different behaviors. Ethanol–water mixtures had three distinct concentration dependent phases; the first, with ethanol surrounded by water molecules, followed by the ethyl groups self-associating breaking the clathrate-like cages, and the ethanol–water network displacing all of the bulk water. Acetic acid–water mixtures display nonlinearity in Δ(∂CP/∂P)T versus acetic acid concentration consistent with acetic acid self-interaction which interferes with acetic acid capacity to disrupt water structure. Acetone-water mixtures display linearity in Δ(∂CP/∂P)T versus acetone concentration which is consistent with acetone’s inability to hydrogen bond with other acetone molecules. The lack of negative Δ(∂CP/∂P)T values in acetic acid-water and acetone-water mixtures suggests there is sufficient self-association between these solutes to prevent clathrate-like water cage formation. PPC can provide invaluable insight into the behavior of aqueous binary mixtures.
Voxel-based evolutionary topological optimization of connected structures for natural frequency optimization
Authors: Bacciaglia Antonio , Ceruti Alessandro , Liverani Alfredo
Published: August 2024

The topology optimization methodology is widely utilized in industrial engineering for designing lightweight and efficient components. In this framework, considering natural frequencies is crucial for adequately designing components and structures exposed to dynamic loads, as in aerospace or automotive applications. The scientific community has shown the efficiency of Bi-directional Evolutionary Structural Optimization (BESO), showcasing its ability to converge towards optimal solid-void or bi-material solutions for a wide range of frequency optimization problems in continuum structures. However, these methods show limits when the complexity of the domain volume increases; thus, they are well-suited for academic case studies but may fail when dealing with industrial applications that require more complex shapes. The connectivity of the structures resulting from the optimization also plays a fundamental role in choosing the best optimization approach, as some available commercial and open-source codes nowadays return unfeasible sparse structures. An improved voxel-based BESO algorithm has been developed in this work to cope with current limits in lightweight structure optimization. A significant case study has been developed to evaluate the performances of the new methodology and compare it with existing algorithms. In contrast to previous studies, the method we developed guarantees that the final structure respects constraints on the initial design volume and that the structure’s connection is preserved, thus enabling the manufacturing of the component with Additive Manufacturing technologies. The proposed approach can be complemented by smoothing algorithms to obtain a structure with externally appealing surfaces.
Exosomal MicroRNAs modulate the cognitive function in fasudil treated APPswe/PSEN1dE9 transgenic (APP/PS1) mice model of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Yan Yuqing , Gao Ye , Kumar Gajendra , Fang Qingli , Yan Hailong , Zhang Nianping , Zhang Yuna , Song Lijuan , Li Jiehui , Zheng Yucheng , Zhang Nan , Zhang Peijun , Ma Cungen
Published: August 2024

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is characterized by cognitive decline stemming from the accumulation of beta-amyloid (Aβ) plaques and the propagation of tau pathology through synapses. Exosomes, crucial mediators in neuronal development, maintenance, and intercellular communication, have gained attention in AD research. Yet, the molecular mechanisms involving exosomal miRNAs in AD remain elusive. In this study, we treated APPswe/PSEN1dE9 transgenic (APP/PS1) mice, a model for AD, with either vehicle (ADNS) or fasudil (ADF), while C57BL/6 (control) mice received vehicle (WT). Cognitive function was evaluated using the Y-maze test, and AD pathology was confirmed through immunostaining and western blot analysis of Aβ plaques and phosphorylated tau. Exosomal RNAs were extracted, sequenced, and analyzed from each mouse group. Our findings revealed that fasudil treatment improved cognitive function in AD mice, as evidenced by increased spontaneous alternation in the Y-maze test and reduced Aβ plaque load and phosphorylated tau protein expression in the hippocampus. Analysis of exosomal miRNAs identified three miRNAs (mmu-let-7i-5p, mmu-miR-19a-3p, mmu-miR-451a) common to both ADNS vs ADF and WT vs ADNS groups. Utilizing miRTarBase software, we predicted and analyzed target genes associated with these miRNAs. Gene ontology (GO) annotation and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis of miRNA target genes indicated that mmu-miR-19a-3p and mmu-miR-451a are implicated in signal transduction, immune response, cellular communication, and nervous system pathways. Specifically, mmu-miR-19a-3p targeted genes involved in the sphingolipid signaling pathway, such as Pten and Tnf, while mmu-miR-451a targeted Nsmaf, Gnai3, and Akt3. Moreover, mmu-miR-451a targeted Myc in signaling pathways regulating the pluripotency of stem cells. In conclusion, fasudil treatment enhanced cognitive function by modulating exosomal MicroRNAs, particularly mmu-miR-451a and mmu-miR-19a-3p. These miRNAs hold promise as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for novel AD treatments.

Graphical Abstract
Disrupting glioblastoma networks with tumor treating fields (TTFields) in in vitro models
Authors: Schlieper-Scherf Steffen , Hebach Nils , Hausmann David , Azorín Daniel D. , Hoffmann Dirk C. , Horschitz Sandra , Maier Elena , Koch Phillip , Karreman Matthia A. , Etminan Nima , Ratliff Miriam
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study investigates the biological effect of Tumor Treating Fields (TTFields) on key drivers of glioblastoma’s malignancy—tumor microtube (TM) formation—and on the function and overall integrity of the tumor cell network.

Method

Using a two-dimensional monoculture GB cell network model (2DTM) of primary glioblastoma cell (GBC) cultures (S24, BG5 or T269), we evaluated the effects of TTFields on cell density, interconnectivity and structural integrity of the tumor network. We also analyzed calcium (Ca2+) transient dynamics and network morphology, validating findings in patient-derived tumoroids and brain tumor organoids.

Results

In the 2DTM assay, TTFields reduced cell density by 85–88% and disrupted network interconnectivity, particularly in cells with multiple TMs. A “crooked TM” phenotype emerged in 5–6% of treated cells, rarely seen in controls. Ca2+ transients were significantly compromised, with global Ca2+ activity reduced by 51–83%, active and periodic cells by over 50%, and intercellular co-activity by 52% in S24, and almost completely in BG5 GBCs. The effects were more pronounced at 200 kHz compared to a 50 kHz TTFields. Similar reductions in Ca2+ activity were observed in patient-derived tumoroids. In brain tumor organoids, TTFields significantly reduced tumor cell proliferation and infiltration.

Conclusion

Our comprehensive study provides new insights into the multiple effects of Inovitro-modeled TTFields on glioma progression, morphology and network dynamics in vitro. Future in vivo studies to verify our in vitro findings may provide the basis for a deeper understanding and optimization of TTFields as a therapeutic modality in the treatment of GB.
New exact solutions of the conformable space-time two-mode foam drainage equation by two effective methods
Authors: Sağlam Özkan Yeşim
Published: August 2024

In this article, the two-mode foam drainage equation in terms of time and space conformable sense has been investigated. Two effective methods, the generalized exponential rational function method (GERFM) and the improved version of the Bernoulli sub-equation function method (IBSEFM), are used to get new solutions of underlying equation. The fractional travelling wave transformation is applied to convert nonlinear partial differential equations to nonlinear ordinary differential equations. Proposed methods successfully extract trigonometric, hyperbolic and exponential solutions. Some of the obtained solutions are visualized to understand the effect of fractional orders of time and space derivatives on the wave profile and the dynamic behavior of the solutions.
Semaglutide as a promising treatment for hypothalamic obesity: a six-month case series on four females with craniopharyngioma
Authors: Gjersdal Erlend , Larsen Liva Bundgaard , Ettrup Kåre Schmidt , Vestergaard Peter , Nielsen Eigil Husted , Karmisholt Jesper Scott , Müller Hermann L. , Dal Jakob
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Patients with hypothalamic pathology often develop hypothalamic obesity, causing severe metabolic alterations resulting in increased morbidity and mortality. Treatments for hypothalamic obesity have not proven very effective, although the glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist semaglutide has been shown to have positive effects. We examined semaglutide’s effect on weight loss in a sample of patients with hypothalamic obesity.

Methods

Four female patients with hypothalamic obesity resulting from treatment of craniopharyngiomas were treated with semaglutide for six months. Whole Body Dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry scans were performed, and blood samples drawn at baseline and after six months. Semaglutide dosages were increased monthly along with tracking of body weight and eating behavior (Three Factor Eating Questionnaire, TFEQ-R18).

Results

BMI was reduced in all cases, with an average of 7.9 BMI (range: 6.7 to 10.1) corresponding to a weight loss of 17.0% (range: 11.3–22.4%) or 20.2 kg (range 16.2 kg to 23.4 kg). We found a comparable reduction in total fat mass (17.2%, p = 0.006) and lean mass (16.0%, p = 0.05), whereas bone mass was unchanged (2.6%, p = 0.12). All cases reported an increase in energy levels, improved mobility and physical activity. Unfavorable eating behaviors were reduced after 1 month of treatment (emotional eating − 41 points, p = 0.02, uncontrolled eating − 23 points, p = 0.11). HbA1c and total cholesterol were significantly reduced (p = 0.014 for both).

Conclusion

Semaglutide is a promising and safe treatment option for HO, that improves eating behavior, reduces weight, and improves metabolic markers.
Evaluating Intelligence and Knowledge in Large Language Models
Authors: Bianchini Francesco
Published: August 2024

In recent times, particularly in the last few years, we have observed the rise of numerous Artificial Intelligence and Natural Language Processing semantic technologies. These advancements have subtly yet profoundly transformed our understanding of knowledge and truth, and the mechanisms for expressing, preserving, and disseminating them. This article aims to explore the dual challenge of assessing the effects of Large Language Models and associated semantic technologies on text dissemination and production, especially across the Internet. It specifically examines the implications for trust in online knowledge repositories, the creation of indirect or deliberate forms of ignorance, and the general perception of AI as a critical component of autonomous systems from the users’ viewpoint. The discussion will also consider potential strategies to mitigate the epistemic risks posed by the employment of AI semantic tools, in both suitable and unsuitable scenarios. The suggested approach contributes to the debate on AI intelligence measurement, proposing the evaluation of an AI system’s expected intelligence (as perceived by users) as a means to address the challenges associated with the “knowledge” generated by these systems. My claim is that measuring the expected intelligence in AI systems places humans at the forefront of the issue without necessitating a precise definition of intelligence for AI systems. This approach preserves therefore the essential attribute of these systems: intelligence.
Mutagenesis on a complex mouse genetic background by site-specific nucleases
Authors: Davies Benjamin , Trelfa Lucy , Rashbrook Victoria S. , Drydale Edward , Martin Rachel , Bai Boyan , Golebka Jedrzej , Biggs Daniel Stephen , Channon Keith M. , Bhattacharya Shoumo , Douglas Gillian
Published: August 2024

Mouse models with complex genetic backgrounds are increasingly used in preclinical research to accurately model human disease and to enable temporal and cell-specific evaluation of genetic manipulations. Backcrossing mice onto these complex genetic backgrounds takes time and leads to significant wastage of animals. In this study, we aimed to evaluate whether site-specific nucleases could be used to generate additional genetic mutations in a complex genetic background, using the REVERSA mouse model of atherosclerosis, a model harbouring four genetically altered alleles. The model is comprised of a functional null mutation in the Ldlr gene in combination with a ApoB100 allele, which, after high-fat diet, leads to the rapid development of atherosclerosis. The regression of the pathology is achieved by inducible knock-out of the Mttp gene. Here we report an investigation to establish if microinjection of site-specific nucleases directly into zygotes prepared from the REVERSA could be used to investigate the role of the ATP binding cassette transporter G1 (ABCG1) in atherosclerosis regression. We show that using this approach we could successfully generate two independent knockout lines on the REVERSA background, both of which exhibited the expected phenotype of a significant reduction in cholesterol efflux to HDL in bone marrow-derived macrophages. However, loss of Abcg1 did not impact atherosclerosis regression in either the aortic root or in aortic arch, demonstrating no important role for this transporter subtype. We have demonstrated that site-specific nucleases can be used to create genetic modifications directly onto complex disease backgrounds and can be used to explore gene function without the need for laborious backcrossing of independent strains, conveying a significant 3Rs advantage.
Quantification and characterization of microplastics ingested by mangrove oysters across West Africa
Authors: Mahu Edem , Vanderpuye-Orgle Tyronne Jude , Boateng Charles Mario , Edusei Maurice Oti , Yeboah Gabriella Akpah , Chuku Ernest Obeng , Okpei Paulina , Okyere Isaac , Dodoo-Arhin David , Akintoye Edward Akinnigbagbe
Published: August 2024

Microplastic ingestion by marine organisms presents a challenge to both ecosystem functioning and human health. We characterized microplastic abundance, shape, size, and polymer types ingested by the West African mangrove oyster, Crassostrea tulipa (Lamarck, 1819) sampled from estuaries and lagoons from the Gambia, Sierra Leone, Ghana, Benin, and Nigeria using optical microscopy and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) techniques. A total of 780 microplastics were isolated in the whole tissues of the 250 oysters (n = 50 oysters per country). The abundance and distribution of microplastics in the oysters followed the pattern: the Gambia > Ghana > Sierra Leone > Nigeria > Benin. The Tanbi wetlands in the Gambia recorded the highest average of 10.50 ± 6.69 per oyster while the Ouidah lagoon in Benin recorded the lowest average of 1.80 ± 1.90 per oyster. Overall, microplastic numbers varied significantly (p < 0.05) among the five countries. Microfibers, particularly those within 1001–5000 μm size, dominated the total microplastic count with a few fragments and films. No spherical microplastics were isolated in the oysters. In the Sierra Leone and Benin oysters, fragments and films were absent in the samples. Microplastic between the 1001 and 5000 μm size class dominated the counts, followed by 501–1000 μm, 101–500 μm, and 51–100 μm. Five polymer groups namely polyethylene, polyester, nylon, polypropylene, and polyamide were identified across the five countries, with polyethylene occurring in oysters from all five countries and polyester occurring in all but the oysters from Nigeria. This diversity of polymers suggests varied sources of microplastics ingested by the studied oysters. The absence of microspheres across the five supports findings from other studies that they are the least ingested and highly egested by the oysters.

Graphical Abstract
Biohythane production via anaerobic digestion process: fundamentals, scale-up challenges, and techno-economic and environmental aspects
Authors: Alavi-Borazjani Seyedeh Azadeh , da Cruz Tarelho Luís António , Capela Maria Isabel
Published: August 2024

Biohythane, a balanced mixture comprising bioH2 (biohydrogen) and bioCH4 (biomethane) produced through anaerobic digestion, is gaining recognition as a promising energy source for the future. This article provides a comprehensive overview of biohythane production, covering production mechanisms, microbial diversity, and process parameters. It also explores different feedstock options, bioreactor designs, and scalability challenges, along with techno-economic and environmental assessments. Additionally, the article discusses the integration of biohythane into waste management systems and examines future prospects for enhancing production efficiency and applicability. This review serves as a valuable resource for researchers, engineers, and policymakers interested in advancing biohythane production as a sustainable and renewable energy solution.
An innovative environmental tool to evaluate the sustainability of anthropogenic processes: the tetrahedron approach
Authors: Gueddari-Aourir Abdessamad , Alonso-Moreno Carlos , Zafrilla Jorge Enrique , Canales-Vázquez Jesús , Ayuso-Yuste María Concepción , Villaseñor Elena , García-Yuste Santiago
Published: August 2024

The Tetrahedron approach is a new environmental tool adapted to assess the sustainability of anthropogenic processes. This tool is based on a four-step methodology that includes (a) the identification of critical parameters, (b) evaluation through the Tetrahedron Parameter Global Evaluator, (c) construction of a tetrahedron diagram based on the final scores and (d) quantitative estimation of the global sustainability. The Tetrahedron incorporates various aspects of sustainability, including economic, social and environmental factors, and provides a comprehensive framework for evaluating the impact of human activities. This article presents the methodology and application of the Tetrahedron in determining the sustainability of five case studies: CO2 capture, unconventional methanol production, the Solvay process, CO2-alcoholic fermentation process strategy and the CO2-Rumen fermentation process strategy. The results demonstrate the Tetrahedron as an effective and reliable tool to quantify the sustainability of anthropogenic processes and to promote sustainable practices across various industries and sectors. The Tetrahedron offers several advantages over other environmental assessment tools, including holistic approach, simplicity and flexibility.
Historical and contemporary cemeteries in the urban area. The modern development of the city vs. human remnants in the soil
Authors: Greinert Andrzej , Kostecki Jakub
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Death is inextricably linked to the functioning of the biosphere, including the presence of humans on Earth. The remains of 117 billion people who have ever lived on Earth are mostly hidden in the soil. Hence, the organization, use and subsequent fate of cemeteries and their surroundings should also be considered from the perspective of pedeogenesis. The soils of such areas are subject to multifactorial human pressure, as reflected in their often complex soil profiles.

Materials and methods

The situation of a Central European city of medieval origin, Zielona Gora (Poland), characterized by the presence of 39 cemeteries within its current boundaries, is presented. The location of these cemeteries was shown in light of other factors of human pressure on soil, including relation to buildings construction and a land use. The analysis of the current form of use of burial sites and their immediate surroundings used the technique of field research and a city's documentation query. In order to reflect the specific impact of the form of use of post-burial grounds on soil properties, selected soil characteristics of exemplary historical cemeteries are presented. The main soil characteristics were evaluated using standard methods of laboratory analysis.

Results and discussion

Some cemeteries are reflected in the city's planning documents – there are all contemporary cemeteries and a few historical ones. The vast majority of historical burial sites are not reflected in the plans. This makes modern urban development directly adjacent to them and even encroaches on their territories. Soil analysis has shown that human remains are still present in soils of these areas, even hundreds of years after cemetery closure. In addition to these, the soils are characterized by elevated C and P content relative to the bedrock. The arrangement of the necrosol profile is disturbed by the significant presence of construction and municipal waste. The most soil characteristics, including grain-size composition, pH, EC, sorption properties, organic and inorganic carbon content, as well as macronutrients and heavy metals, are strong influenced by the land use form and urban pressure on cemetery areas.

Conclusions

It is common practice around the world to bury human bodies or ashes in soil, hence their remains contribute to soil profiles. Proper identification of cemetery soil profiles, with a clear indication of necric features, is difficult due to the different uses of cemetery land. The soils of former cemeteries, by reason of their relationship to buildings and urban parks, take on the characteristics typical of such urban land use forms.
Kinetic scale magnetic holes in the terrestrial magnetosheath: A review
Authors: Shi Quanqi , Yao Shutao , Hamrin Maria , Liu Ji
Published: August 2024

Magnetic holes at the ion-to-electron kinetic scale (KSMHs) are one of the extremely small intermittent structures generated in turbulent magnetized plasmas. In recent years, the explorations of KSMHs have made substantial strides, driven by the ultra-high-precision observational data gathered from the Magnetospheric Multiscale (MMS) mission. This review paper summarizes the up-to-date characteristics of the KSMHs observed in Earth’s turbulent magnetosheath, as well as their potential impacts on space plasma. This review starts by introducing the fundamental properties of the KSMHs, including observational features, particle behaviors, scales, geometries, and distributions in terrestrial space. Researchers have discovered that KSMHs display a quasi-circular electron vortex-like structure attributed to electron diamagnetic drift. These electrons exhibit noticeable non-gyrotropy and undergo acceleration. The occurrence rate of KSMH in the Earth’s magnetosheath is significantly greater than in the solar wind and magnetotail, suggesting the turbulent magnetosheath is a primary source region. Additionally, KSMHs have also been generated in turbulence simulations and successfully reproduced by the kinetic equilibrium models. Furthermore, KSMHs have demonstrated their ability to accelerate electrons by a novel non-adiabatic electron acceleration mechanism, serve as an additional avenue for energy dissipation during magnetic reconnection, and generate diverse wave phenomena, including whistler waves, electrostatic solitary waves, and electron cyclotron waves in space plasma. These results highlight the magnetic hole’s impact such as wave-particle interaction, energy cascade/dissipation, and particle acceleration/heating in space plasma. We end this paper by summarizing these discoveries, discussing the generation mechanism, similar structures, and observations in the Earth’s magnetotail and solar wind, and presenting a future extension perspective in this active field.
Evaluation of the Effects of Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) on Caenorhabditis elegans Survival and Fertility
Authors: Zöngür Alper
Published: August 2024

Di-2-ethylhexyl (DEHP), which is widely used in industrial products, is produced annually in excess of 2 million tons worldwide. DEHP is an endocrine disruptor and one of the major environmental pollutant chemicals (EDCs) in nature. There is some information about the effects of these products, which provide great advantages in every respect, on human health and the environment. In this study, C. elegans organism was used to evaluate the health and environmental risks of DEHP. The survival and fertility effects of DEHP on the C. elegans organism were examined and the results were evaluated. In the study, it was determined that DEHP not only shortened the survival time of C. elegans but also caused a decrease in fertility. DEHP (0.625 mM and 10 mM) caused a 23.2–30.6% decrease in fertility. Additionally, the LC50 (50% lethal concentration) value of DEHP was found to be 321 µg/mL.