bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Migratory pathways and winter destinations of Northern Gannets breeding at Helgoland (North Sea): known patterns and increasing importance of the Baltic Sea
Authors: Garthe Stefan , Peschko Verena , Fifield David A. , Borkenhagen Kai , Nyegaard Timme , Dierschke Jochen
Published: June 2024

We analysed the migratory behaviour of adult Northern Gannets (Morus bassanus) breeding at Helgoland in the North Sea, based on data obtained from geolocation devices in the non-breeding season 2016–2017. Birds moved east and south-west to a broad range of wintering sites, ranging from the western Baltic Sea to North-West Africa. Three out of 12 birds spent the winter in Africa, while 9 birds wintered in Europe, with the primary wintering sites in the North Sea. All but one tagged bird spent some time in the Baltic Sea or in the transitional waters between the North Sea and Baltic Sea. We also analysed data from online databases (dofbasen.dk, ornitho.de) and the German Seabirds at Sea database to explore the extent to which Northern Gannets used the western Baltic Sea, as well as the Kattegat and Skagerrak, during the winter months. Records of Northern Gannets in Danish waters have increased substantially over the last 18 winters, with particular increases in the Baltic Sea. There was also a notable increase in sightings of Northern Gannets in German Baltic Sea waters, but this occurred later than in the more northerly Danish waters. Both analyses demonstrated that Northern Gannets explored the western part of the Baltic Sea, as well as the Kattegat and Skagerrak, increasingly intensively. This recent increase in sightings is in accord with the establishment and exponential increase in the nearest breeding colony of Northern Gannets at Helgoland.
Sleep and Oxidative Stress: Current Perspectives on the Role of NRF2
Authors: Davinelli Sergio , Medoro Alessandro , Savino Rosa , Scapagnini Giovanni
Published: June 2024

Sleep is a fundamental conserved physiological state across evolution, suggesting vital biological functions that are yet to be fully clarified. However, our understanding of the neural and molecular basis of sleep regulation has increased rapidly in recent years. Among various processes implicated in controlling sleep homeostasis, a bidirectional relationship between sleep and oxidative stress has recently emerged. One proposed function of sleep may be the mitigation of oxidative stress in both brain and peripheral tissues, contributing to the clearance of reactive species that accumulate during wakefulness. Conversely, reactive species, such as reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS), at physiological levels, may act as signaling agents to regulate redox-sensitive transcriptional factors, enzymes, and other effectors involved in the regulation of sleep. As a primary sensor of intracellular oxidation, the transcription factor NRF2 is emerging as an indispensable component to maintain cellular redox homeostasis during sleep. Indeed, a number of studies have revealed an association between NRF2 dysfunction and the most common sleep conditions, including sleep loss, obstructive sleep apnea, and circadian sleep disturbances. This review examines the evidence of the intricate link between oxidative stress and NRF2 function in the context of sleep, and highlights the potential of NRF2 modulators to alleviate sleep disturbances.

Graphical Abstract

A bidirectional relationship between sleep and oxidative stress has been shown, indicating that sleep may play a protective role against the accumulation of reactive species during wakefulness and sleep deprivation. However, reactive species might also serve as signaling molecules that influence sleep regulation mechanisms. Notably, as a sensor of cellular redox changes, the transcription factor NRF2 is emerging as a key regulator of sleep homeostasis.
Intraocular pressure control efficacy and safety of HA-Mg glaucoma drainage plate implantation in the anterior chamber of rabbit eyes
Authors: Cai Mingming , Luo Wangdu , Feng Kevin , Chen Yi , Yi Lin , Zhu Xiaomin , He Ju , Liu Hong , Hutnik Cindy , Wang Yong , Li Xiangji , Xie Lin
Published: June 2024

The current clinical application of glaucoma drainage devices is made of non-degradable materials. These non-degradable drainage devices often trigger inflammatory responses and scar proliferation, possibly leading to surgical failure. We developed a biodegradable material hydroxyapatite-coated magnesium (HA-Mg) as a glaucoma drainage device. Twelve New Zealand white rabbits were randomly assigned to three groups: HA-Mg drainage plate group (6 right eyes), trabeculectomy group (6 right eyes), and control group (12 left eyes). Results showed that all HA-Mg drainage plates were completely degraded ~4 months postoperatively. At the 5th month postoperatively, there was no statistical difference in the corneal endothelium density between the HA-Mg drainage plate group and the control group (p = 0.857). The intraocular pressure (IOP) level in the HA-Mg drainage plate implantation group was lower than in the other two groups. The trypan blue dye still drained from the anterior chamber to the subconjunctiva 5 months after HA-Mg drainage plate implantation. HE staining revealed the scleral linear aqueous humor drainage channel and anterior synechia were observed after drainage plate completely degraded, with no obvious infiltration with the inflammatory cells. This study showed the safety and efficacy of HA-Mg glaucoma drainage plate in controlling IOP after implantation into the anterior chamber of rabbit eyes.

Graphical abstract
Antimicrobial and Anticancer Activity of Gallic Acid–Cu(II) Hybrid Nanoflowers and Gallic Acid–Zn(II) Hybrid Nanoflowers
Authors: Somtürk Yilmaz Burcu
Published: June 2024

Herein, synthesis and characterization of hybrid nanoflowers (hNFs) using gallic acid as organic components, and Cu(II), and Zn(II) ions which were involved as the inorganic component was carried out. In the first part of the study, the morphologies of the synthesized hNFs were investigated using SEM, EDX, XRD, FT-IR, and mapping. In the second part of the study, the antimicrobial activities of the synthesized hNFs were examined. Antimicrobial activities of hNFs were systematically studied against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, P. aeruginosa, and Candida albicans with broth microdilution and short time-kill assay. In addition, the anticancer activity of hNFs was examined. For this, A549 and MCF7 cell lines were used.

Graphical Abstract
Effect of using a ZnO-TiO2/water hybrid nanofluid on heat transfer performance and pressure drop in a flat tube with louvered finned heat exchanger
Authors: Elibol Emre Askin , Gonulacar Yunus Emre , Aktas Fatih , Tigli Burak
Published: June 2024

This study used an experimental setup consisting of a flat tube with a louvered finned crossflow configuration to examine the effects of utilizing a ZnO-TiO2-water hybrid nanofluid on heat transfer rate, heat transfer coefficient, Nusselt number, and pressure drop. The studies were carried out under laminar flow conditions (200 < Re < 800), at four different temperatures (50, 60, 70, 80 °C), four different volume concentrations of nanoparticles (0.025, 0.05, 0.1, 0.2%), and three different volume flow rates (4, 6, 8 LPM). The findings were compared with pure water (0%). The results indicate that using hybrid nanofluid improves the heat transfer performance and increases pressure loss in comparison with pure water. When comparing hybrid nanofluid to pure water, the largest increases in heat transfer rate, heat transfer coefficient, Nusselt number, and pressure drop were 87.8%, 21.7%, 26.4%, and 10%, respectively. In addition, it was found that, up to a specific value (0.05%), increasing the nanoparticle volume concentration enhanced the heat transfer rate, heat transfer coefficient and Nusselt number, but which began to decrease on increasing the concentration past this value. Therefore, it was concluded that nanoparticle volume concentrations greater than 0.05% negatively affect heat transfer under the current operating conditions. The maximum heat transfer rate, heat transfer coefficient, and Nusselt number were obtained under the conditions of an 8 LPM volume flow rate, 80 °C inlet temperature, and 0.05% volume concentration.
Finding eigenvectors with a quantum variational algorithm
Authors: Garcia-Escartin Juan Carlos
Published: June 2024

This paper presents a hybrid variational quantum algorithm that finds a random eigenvector of a unitary matrix with a known quantum circuit. The algorithm is based on the SWAP test on trial states generated by a parametrized quantum circuit. The eigenvector is described by a compact set of classical parameters that can be used to reproduce the found approximation to the eigenstate on demand. This variational eigenvector finder can be adapted to solve the generalized eigenvalue problem, to find the eigenvectors of normal matrices and to perform quantum principal component analysis on unknown input mixed states. These algorithms can all be run with low-depth quantum circuits, suitable for an efficient implementation on noisy intermediate-scale quantum computers and, with some restrictions, on linear optical systems. In full-scale quantum computers, where there might be optimization problems due to barren plateaus in larger systems, the proposed algorithms can be used as a primitive to boost known quantum algorithms. Limitations and potential applications are discussed.
Longitudinal detection of gait alterations associated with hypertension-induced cerebral microhemorrhages in mice: predictive role of stride length and stride time asymmetry and increased gait entropy
Authors: Ungvari Zoltan , Muranyi Mihaly , Gulej Rafal , Negri Sharon , Nyul-Toth Adam , Csik Boglarka , Patai Roland , Conley Shannon , Milan Madison , Bagwell Jonathan , O’Connor Daniel , Tarantini Amber , Yabluchanskiy Andriy , Toth Peter , Csiszar Anna , Ungvari Anna , Mukli Peter , Tarantini Stefano
Published: June 2024

Cerebral microhemorrhages (CMHs) are of paramount importance as they not only signify underlying vascular pathology but also have profound implications for cognitive function and neurological health, serving as a critical indicator for the early detection and management of vascular cognitive impairment (VCI). This study aimed to investigate the effects of hypertension-induced CMHs on gait dynamics in a mouse model, focusing on the utility of advanced gait metrics as sensitive indicators of subclinical neurological alterations associated with CMHs. To induce CMHs, we employed a hypertensive mouse model, using a combination of Angiotensin II and L-NAME to elevate blood pressure, further supplemented with phenylephrine to mimic transient blood pressure fluctuations. Gait dynamics were analyzed using the CatWalk system, with emphasis on symmetry indices for Stride Length (SL), Stride Time (ST), and paw print area, as well as measures of gait entropy and regularity. The study spanned a 30-day experimental period, capturing day-to-day variations in gait parameters to assess the impact of CMHs. Temporary surges in gait asymmetry, detected as deviations from median gait metrics, suggested the occurrence of subclinical neurological signs associated with approximately 50% of all histologically verified CMHs. Our findings also demonstrated that increases in gait entropy correlated with periods of increased gait asymmetry, providing insights into the complexity of gait dynamics in response to CMHs. Significant correlations were found between SL and ST symmetry indices and between these indices and the paw print area symmetry index post-hypertension induction, indicating the interdependence of spatial and temporal aspects of gait affected by CMHs. Collectively, advanced gait metrics revealed sensitive, dynamic alterations in gait regulation associated with CMHs, resembling the temporal characteristics of transient ischemic attacks (TIAs). This underscores their potential as non-invasive indicators of subclinical neurological impacts. This study supports the use of detailed gait analysis as a valuable tool for detecting subtle neurological changes, with implications for the early diagnosis and monitoring of cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) in clinical settings.
Neurological diagnostic tests for patients with and without delirium: a prospective observational study
Authors: Waefler Noémie , Abid Imen , Montaut Victor , Donzé Jacques , Zender Hervé , John Gregor
Published: June 2024

Since most of the precipitating factors of delirium are not due to neurological disorders, neurological diagnostic tests (NDTs) may be of limited value. We hypothesized that delirium has a high burden of NDTs with a low diagnostic yield. All patients admitted to the internal medicine wards of a single secondary teaching hospital between November 2019 and January 2020 were eligible. Within the first 48 h of their admission, they had a formal evaluation by a neuropsychologist to screen for presence of delirium. NDTs (brain MRI, brain CT, electroencephalography (EEG), and lumbar puncture) performed during the hospital stay were compared between patients with and without delirium using a logistic regression model stratified by a propensity score. The proportions of diagnostic yield (acute anomalies that changed the treatment management) provided by each type of examination were compared. Of 217 patients included, 19/32 patients (61%) with delirium had one or more NDTs, compared to 48/185 (26%) without delirium (adjusted OR 2.7; 95%CI 1.1–6.7; p = 0.027). The proportions of NDT results affecting management for patients with and without delirium were 13 and 20% for brain CT scans (p = 0.71), 29 and 38% for brain MRI (p = 0.99), and 20 and 10% for EEGs (p = 0.99), respectively. The higher proportion of NDTs performed on patients with delirium was associated with a low diagnostic yield, although not statistically different from those performed among inpatients without delirium. There is a need for restrictive, evidence-based guidelines to help with the work-up for patients with delirium.
What the urologist needs to know before radical prostatectomy: MRI effective support to pre-surgery planning
Authors: Laschena Ludovica , Messina Emanuele , Flammia Rocco Simone , Borrelli Antonella , Novelli Simone , Messineo Daniela , Leonardo Costantino , Sciarra Alessandro , Ciardi Antonio , Catalano Carlo , Panebianco Valeria
Published: June 2024

Background

Radical prostatectomy (RP) is recommended in case of localized or locally advanced prostate cancer (PCa), but it can lead to side effects, including urinary incontinence (UI) and erectile dysfunction (ED). Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is recommended for PCa diagnosis and staging, but it can also improve preoperative risk-stratification.

Purpose

This nonsystematic review aims to provide an overview on factors involved in RP side effects, highlighting anatomical and pathological aspects that could be included in a structured report.

Evidence synthesis

Considering UI evaluation, MR can investigate membranous urethra length (MUL), prostate volume, the urethral sphincter complex, and the presence of prostate median lobe. Longer MUL measurement based on MRI is linked to a higher likelihood of achieving continence restoration. For ED assessment, MRI and diffusion tensor imaging identify the neurovascular bundle and they can aid in surgery planning. Finally, MRI can precisely describe extra-prostatic extension, prostate apex characteristics and lymph-node involvement, providing valuable preoperative information for PCa treatment.

Conclusions

Anatomical principals structures involved in RP side effects can be assessed with MR. A standardized MR report detailing these structures could assist urologists in planning optimal and tailored surgical techniques, reducing complications, and improving patients’ care.
Der Einfluss von Vorwissen und sprachlichen Texteigenschaften auf die Anwendung des Fragebogens in einer gynäkologischen Patientenaufklärung: eine leitfadengestützte Interviewstudie
Authors: Ahrens Sarah , Maaß Christiane
Published: June 2024

Hintergrund

Leichte Sprache Plus ist ein Mittel, Gesundheitsinformationen zielgruppengerecht zugänglich zu machen. In diesem Beitrag stehen neben Frauen mit Deutsch als Zweitsprache auch Frauen mit Deutsch als Erstsprache im Fokus. Untersucht werden das Verstehen und Anwenden des Anamnesebogens einer Patientenaufklärung. Dabei werden spezifische Barrieren aufgedeckt, die vom Text ausgehen.

Methoden

Verstehen und Anwenden von Informationen wurden in qualitativen leitfadengestützten Online-Interviews abgefragt. Nach Kuckartz und Rädiker wurden evaluative Kategorien erstellt, in denen Verstehen und Anwenden bewertet wurde. Wo die Probandinnen den Text bewerteten, wurden Aussagen zudem in inhaltlich-strukturierenden Kategorien codiert. Die Barrieren für Verstehen und Anwenden werden nach dem Modell der Hildesheimer Treppe kategorisiert.

Schlussfolgerungen

Die Textsorte „Fragebogen“ ist nicht zielgruppenorientiert. Sie stellt die Leserinnen vor eine Fach- und Fachsprachenbarriere. Es ist umfangreiches Vorwissen gefordert, das die Leserinnen nicht mitbringen, ggf. kommt für die Frauen mit Deutsch als L2 die Sprachbarriere hinzu. Signalwörter wie „Diabetes“ helfen Leserinnen, wichtige Textstellen zu identifizieren und erhöhen so die Anwendbarkeit der Informationen. Kann der Fragebogen durch die Leserin nicht angewandt werden, gewinnt die umliegende Kommunikationssituation an Bedeutung.
An accelerated lyapunov function for Polyak’s Heavy-ball on convex quadratics
Authors: Orvieto Antonio
Published: June 2024

In 1964, Polyak showed that the Heavy-ball method, the simplest momentum technique, accelerates convergence of strongly-convex problems in the vicinity of the solution. While Nesterov later developed a globally accelerated version, Polyak’s original algorithm remains simpler and more widely used in applications such as deep learning. Despite this popularity, the question of whether Heavy-ball is also globally accelerated or not has not been fully answered yet, and no convincing counterexample has been provided. This is largely due to the difficulty in finding an effective Lyapunov function: indeed, most proofs of Heavy-ball acceleration in the strongly-convex quadratic setting rely on eigenvalue arguments. Our work adopts a different approach: studying momentum through the lens of quadratic invariants of simple harmonic oscillators. By utilizing the modified Hamiltonian of Störmer-Verlet integrators, we are able to construct a Lyapunov function that demonstrates an

$$O(1/k^2)$$

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1
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rate for Heavy-ball in the case of convex quadratic problems. Our novel proof technique, though restricted to linear regression, is found to work well empirically also on non-quadratic convex problems, and thus provides insights on the structure of Lyapunov functions to be used in the general convex case. As such, our paper makes a promising first step towards potentially proving the acceleration of Polyak’s momentum method and we hope it inspires further research around this question.
Benchmark-based deviation and drawdown measures in portfolio optimization
Authors: Zabarankin Michael , Grechuk Bogdan , Hao Dawei
Published: June 2024

Understanding and modeling of agent’s risk/reward preferences is a central problem in various applications of risk management including investment science and portfolio theory in particular. One of the approaches is to axiomatically define a set of performance measures and to use a benchmark to identify a particular measure from that set by either inverse optimization or functional dominance. For example, such a benchmark could be the rate of return of an existing attractive financial instrument. This work introduces deviation and drawdown measures that incorporate rates of return of indicated financial instruments (benchmarks). For discrete distributions and discrete sample paths, portfolio problems with such measures are reduced to linear programs and solved based on historical data in cases of a single benchmark and three benchmarks used simultaneously. The optimal portfolios and corresponding benchmarks have similar expected/cumulative rates of return in sample and out of sample, but the former are considerably less volatile.
Optimizing the extraction of polyphenols from Prunus spinosa L. fruit using response surface methodology and production of powders from optimized extracts by foam mat drying
Authors: Bayram Yuksel
Published: June 2024

Prunus spinosa L., commonly known as blackthorn, holds traditional significance both as a food source and an herbal remedy. This study aims to determine the extract that includes the highest total phenolic content (TPC), antioxidant capacity (AC) using DPPH and CUPRAC assays, and vitamin C from blackthorn using the response surface method in an ultrasonic water bath and to this extract into powder by foam mat drying. The investigation comprises two primary phases. Firstly, the impact of temperature (20–80 °C) and extraction time (5–30 min) on TPC, AC, and vitamin C were systematically explored. Subsequently, the extracts derived from blackthorn fruit were subjected to foam mat drying, utilizing two distinct ratios (7:3 w/w and 8:2 w/w) of foaming agents [maltodextrin (MD) to egg white (EW)], along with three drying techniques (oven, microwave, and natural drying). The optimized extraction parameters were determined as follows: temperature (80 °C) and time (30 min). Furthermore, the results reveal that microwave-dried powders with a low EW ratio exhibit superior preservation of TPC, AC, and vitamin C content. This research underscores the potential utility of foam mat-dried blackthorn powders as functional ingredients and natural colorants within the realm of the food industry.
Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and short-term mortality risk in elderly acute medical patients admitted to a University Hospital Emergency Department
Authors: Galardo Gioacchino , Crisanti Luca , Gentile Andrea , Cornacchia Marco , Iatomasi Francesca , Egiddi Iacopo , Puscio Emanuele , Menichelli Danilo , Pugliese Francesco , Pastori Daniele ,   and the Research on Medical patients Admitted to the Emergency Department (ROMA-ED) investigators
Published: June 2024

Early identification of patients with a poorer prognosis in the Emergency Department (ED) is crucial for prompt treatment and resource allocation. We investigated the relationship between the Neutrophil to Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR) and 30-day mortality in elderly acute medical patients. Prospective single-center cohort study including consecutive patients admitted to the ED. Inclusion criteria were age > 65 years and medical condition as the cause of ED access. Exclusion criteria were patients admitted for traumatic injuries or non-traumatic surgical diseases. ROC analysis was used to set the best cut-off of the NLR for mortality. 953 patients were included and 142 (14.9%) died during follow-up. ROC analysis showed a good predictive value of the NLR with an AUC 0.70, 95%CI 0.67–0.73 (p < 0.001) and identified a NLR > 8 as the best cut-off. Patients with NLR > 8 had a more serious triage code (72.6% had a triage code ≤ 2) and an increased heart rate and body temperature. They more often presented with dyspnea, abdominal pain, falls and vomiting. They also were characterized by an increase in urea, creatinine, white blood cells, neutrophils, fibrinogen, D-dimer, glycemia, CRP, LDH and transaminases and by a decrease in eGFR, of lymphocytes and monocytes. Multivariable logistic regression analysis demonstrated that the NLR remained associated with mortality after adjustment for confounders (Odds ratio 2.563, 95%CI 1.595–4.118, p < 0.001). Patients with NLR > 8 showed a higher mortality rate. NLR is an easy and inexpensive tool that may be used for risk stratification in the ED. The results of this study need to be validated in larger external cohorts.
On The Monotony of Struve Functions
Authors: Deniz Erhan , Szász Róbert
Published: June 2024

Cotîrlă and Szász (Comput Methods Funct Theory: 2023) solved a conjecture related with inclusion relation for Bessel functions, proposed by Baricz and András (Complex Var Elliptic Equ 54(7): 689–696, 2009). In this paper, we prove this conjecture for normalized Struve functions by using subordination factor sequences.
Degradation Processes of Two Compound Layers on Nitrided Surfaces During the Wear Test by “Block on Hot Al Cylinder”
Authors: Lamut M. , Burja J. , Terčelj M. , Kugler G. , Bombač D.
Published: June 2024

The results obtained in the study help to explain the degradation process of the nitrided steel compound layer. Compound layers with different properties on gas-nitrided H10 tool steel blocks were tested for wear with “block on hot Al cylinder”. Degradation processes were observed on both compound layers with different properties and at three contact pressures. In order to observe the degradation processes in the compound layers, the wear tests were interrupted at various fixed time intervals and the resulting changes were closely monitored. The comprehensive analysis highlighted the complexity of the degradation process in the compound layers and emphasized the existence of complex relationships between the above-mentioned parameters. The reaction of the nitrided steel surface with hot Al is more pronounced in areas with lower contact pressure, while adhesive removal and furrow formation are pronounced in areas with low and medium contact pressure. This process begins with a sufficient density of the areas where islands of adhesive removal are located, their enlargement during the test, the breaking up of the walls between them, and finally the removal of the compound layer in the sliding direction, which appears as furrowing in the final phase of wear.
A drug repurposing study identifies novel FOXM1 inhibitors with in vitro activity against breast cancer cells
Authors: Abusharkh Khaled A. N. , Comert Onder Ferah , Çınar Venhar , Hamurcu Zuhal , Ozpolat Bulent , Ay Mehmet
Published: June 2024

FOXM1, a proto-oncogenic transcription factor, plays a critical role in cancer development and treatment resistance in cancers, particularly in breast cancer. Thus, this study aimed to identify potential FOXM1 inhibitors through computational screening of drug databases, followed by in vitro validation of their inhibitory activity against breast cancer cells. In silico studies involved pharmacophore modeling using the FOXM1 inhibitor, FDI-6, followed by virtual screening of DrugBank and Selleckchem databases. The selected drugs were prepared for molecular docking, and the crystal structure of FOXM1 was pre-processed for docking simulations. In vitro studies included MTT assays to assess cytotoxicity, and Western blot analysis to evaluate protein expression levels. Our study identified Pantoprazole and Rabeprazole as potential FOXM1 inhibitors through in silico screening and molecular docking. Molecular dynamics simulations confirmed stable interactions of these drugs with FOXM1. In vitro experiments showed both Pantoprazole and Rabeprazole exhibited strong FOXM1 inhibition at effective concentrations and that showed inhibition of cell proliferation. Rabeprazole showed the inhibitor activity at 10 µM in BT-20 and MCF-7 cell lines. Pantoprazole exhibited FOXM1 inhibition at 30 µM and in BT-20 cells and at 70 µM in MCF-7 cells, respectively. Our current study provides the first evidence that Rabeprazole and Pantoprazole can bind to FOXM1 and inhibit its activity and downstream signaling, including eEF2K and pEF2, in breast cancer cells. These findings indicate that rabeprazole and pantoprazole inhibit FOXM1 and breast cancer cell proliferation, and they can be used for FOXM1-targeted therapy in breast or other cancers driven by FOXM1.

Graphical Abstract
Comparing Prion Proteins Across Species: Is Zebrafish a Useful Model?
Authors: Burato Anna , Legname Giuseppe
Published: June 2024

Despite the considerable body of research dedicated to the field of neurodegeneration, the gap in knowledge on the prion protein and its intricate involvement in brain diseases remains substantial. However, in the past decades, many steps forward have been taken toward a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying both the physiological role of the prion protein and the misfolding event converting it into its pathological counterpart, the prion. This review aims to provide an overview of the main findings regarding this protein, highlighting the advantages of many different animal models that share a conserved amino acid sequence and/or structure with the human prion protein. A particular focus will be given to the species Danio rerio, a compelling research organism for the investigation of prion biology, thanks to its conserved orthologs, ease of genetic manipulation, and cost-effectiveness of high-throughput experimentation. We will explore its potential in filling some of the gaps on physiological and pathological aspects of the prion protein, with the aim of directing the future development of therapeutic interventions.
Type I interferon pathway in pediatric systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Zhou Yu , Song Hong-Mei
Published: June 2024

Background

The role of type I interferon (IFN-I) signaling in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) has been well established. However, unanswered questions remain regarding the applicability of these findings to pediatric-onset SLE. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the novel discoveries on IFN-I signaling in pediatric-onset SLE.

Data sources

A literature search was conducted in the PubMed database using the following keywords: “pediatric systemic lupus erythematosus” and “type I interferon”.

Results

IFN-I signaling is increased in pediatric SLE, largely due to the presence of plasmacytoid dendritic cells and pathways such as cyclic GMP-AMP synthase–stimulator of interferon genes–TANK-binding kinase 1 and Toll-like receptor (TLR)4/TLR9. Neutrophil extracellular traps and oxidative DNA damage further stimulate IFN-I production. Genetic variants in IFN-I-related genes, such as IFN-regulatory factor 5 and tyrosine kinase 2, are linked to SLE susceptibility in pediatric patients. In addition, type I interferonopathies, characterized by sustained IFN-I activation, can mimic SLE symptoms and are thus important to distinguish. Studies on interferonopathies also contribute to exploring the pathogenesis of SLE. Measuring IFN-I activation is crucial for SLE diagnosis and stratification. Both IFN-stimulated gene expression and serum IFN-α2 levels are common indicators. Flow cytometry markers such as CD169 and galectin-9 are promising alternatives. Anti-IFN therapies, such as sifalimumab and anifrolumab, show promise in adult patients with SLE, but their efficacy in pediatric patients requires further investigation. Janus kinase inhibitors are another treatment option for severe pediatric SLE patients.

Conclusions

This review presents an overview of the IFN-I pathway in pediatric SLE. Understanding the intricate relationship between IFN-I and pediatric SLE may help to identify potential diagnostic markers and targeted therapies, paving the way for improved patient care and outcomes.

Graphical Abstract
Cancer Patients’ Social Relationships During 3 Years After Diagnosis—Generic and Cancer-Specific Social Networks
Authors: Lehto Ulla-Sisko , Ojanen Markku , Lääperi Silja , Kohonen Mira , Härkänen Tommi , Honkalampi Kirsi , Turpeenniemi-Hujanen Taina
Published: June 2024

Background

Social relationships are important health resources and may be investigated as social networks. We measured cancer patients’ social subnetworks divided into generic social networks (people known to the patients) and disease-specific social networks (the persons talked to about the cancer) during 3 years after diagnosis.

Method

Newly diagnosed patients with localized breast cancer (n = 222), lymphoma (n = 102), and prostate cancer (n = 141) completed a questionnaire on their social subnetworks at 2–5 months after diagnosis and 9, 18, and 36 months thereafter. Generic and cancer-specific numbers of persons of spouse/partner; other family; close relatives, in detail; and friends were recorded as well as cancer-specific numbers of persons in acquaintances; others with cancer; work community; healthcare professionals; and religious, hobby, and civic participation. The data was analyzed with regression models.

Results

At study entry, most patients had a spouse/partner, all had close relatives (the younger, more often parents; and the older, more often adult children with families) and most also friends. The cancer was typically discussed with them, and often with acquaintances and other patients (74–86%). Only minor usually decreasing time trends were seen. However, the numbers of distant relatives and friends were found to strongly increase by the 9-month evaluation (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Cancer patients have multiple social relationships and usually talk to them about their cancer soon after diagnosis. Most temporal changes are due to the natural course of life cycle. The cancer widened the patients’ social networks by including other patients and healthcare professionals and by an increased number of relatives and friends.
The tumor immune microenvironment and T-cell-related immunotherapies in colorectal cancer
Authors: Chuang Liu , Qifeng Ju , Shaolei Yu
Published: June 2024

The tumor microenvironment includes a complex network of immune T-cell subsets that play important roles in colorectal cancer (CRC) progression and are key elements of CRC immunotherapy. T cells develop and migrate within tumors, recognizing tumor-specific antigens to regulate immune surveillance. Current immunotherapies are divided into the following main categories based on the regulatory role of T-cell subsets in the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME): cytokines, monoclonal antibodies, peptide vaccines, CAR-T cells and more. This review describes the composition of the tumor immune microenvironment in colorectal cancer and the involvement of T cells in the pathogenesis and progression of CRC as well as current T-cell-related immunotherapies. Further studies on CRC-specific tumor antigens, the gene regulation of T cells, and the regulation of immune activity are needed.
The Effects of Schooling Rates and Income Levels on Energy Consumption in Households: A Panel Data Analysis on OECD Countries
Authors: Cihan Kezban Ayran , Değirmenci Nurdan
Published: June 2024

While energy consumption affects many different areas, it is also affected by many different factors. Therefore, policies aiming to reduce energy consumption gain a multidimensional feature. Income level and education play an important role in the success of these policies. Because as the income and education levels of individuals increase, the success rate of policies aiming to reduce energy consumption is higher. In this way, while energy consumption is reduced or used more efficiently, environmental problems are prevented. In this study, the effects of average schooling rate and income level on energy consumption in residences were investigated. For this purpose, the panel data analysis was used within the scope of the annual data of 19 OECD member countries for the 1990–2019 period. As a result of the analysis, a cointegration relationship was detected between the variables and long-term coefficients and error correction coefficient and short-term coefficients were obtained with the Augmented Mean Group (AMG) estimator. The findings show that the long-term average schooling rate has a negative effect on energy consumption in households, but income level has a positive effect on a panel basis. On the other hand, it was also found that the error correction mechanism works and that the income level has a positive effect on the energy consumption in the households in the short term, but the average schooling rate does not have a significant effect on the energy consumption in the households in the short term.
Assessment of the impact of climate change on current and future flows of the ungauged Aga-Foua-Djilas watershed: a comparative study of hydrological models CWatM under ISIMIP and HMF-WA
Authors: Dione Philippe Malick , Faye Cheikh , Mohamed Ahmed , Alarifi Saad S. , Mohammed Musaab A. A.
Published: June 2024

Studying the pressing impacts of climate change on runoff is vital for the sustainable functioning of society and ecosystems. In Senegal, there is insufficient consideration given to the magnitude of the decrease in water resources caused by climate change and the potential impact of this decrease on both society and the environment. The objective of this study was to evaluate the hydrological effects of climate change in the Aga-Foua-Djilas basin by employing CWatM hydrological models inside the frameworks of ISIMIP and HMF-WA. Over the historical period (1981–2019) in the Aga-Foua-Djilas basin, the analysis of all hydrological parameters indicates positive trends, although not statistically significant (except for runoff). Over the future period, unlike temperatures and PET, which show an upward trend in all scenarios, precipitation and runoff show downward trends, which are more significant under SSP 585. For precipitation, Kendall’s Tau shows a downward trend of − 0.157 mm/yr, − 0.321 mm/yr, and − 0.472 mm/yr under SSP 126, SSP 370 and SSP 585, respectively. For runoff, the trends are negative and of the order of − 0.207 m3/s/yr, − 0.44 m3/s/yr, and − 0.565 m3/s/yr, respectively, under SSP 126, SSP 370 and SSP 585 with CwatM and − 0.248 m3/s/yr (SSP 126), − 0.389 m3/s/yr (SSP 245) and − 0.579 m3/s/yr (SSP585) with HMF-WA. Compared with the decrease in precipitation toward the end of the century, the decrease in runoff noted for the distant future (2081–2100) will be of the order of − 32.8% (SSP 126), − 80.8% (SSP 370) and − 94.6% (SSP 585) with CwatM and − 22.3% (SSP 126), − 19.6% (SSP 245) and − 50.9% (SSP 585) with HMF-WA. This study could help policymakers and stakeholders to develop adaptation strategies for the Aga-Foua-Djilas basin.
A new formulation for removing condensate blockage for low permeable gas reservoir
Authors: Abbasi Amirhossein , Khamehchi Ehsan , Khaleghi Mohammad Reza , Mahdavi Kalatehno Javad , Panjalizadeh Hamed
Published: June 2024

Condensate blockage significantly impairs gas production in low-permeability reservoirs by reducing gas relative permeability and increasing condensate saturation near the wellbore. Particularly acute in reservoirs with low pressure and permeability, effective solutions are required to mitigate this formation damage. This study introduces a novel acid treatment strategy aimed at enhancing the injectivity index in gas reservoirs afflicted by condensate blockage. Leveraging mineralogical analysis, Hydrochloric Acid (HCl) was identified as the optimal acidizing agent. The most effective concentrations of HCl for rock dissolution—15% and 7.5%—were determined through dissolution tests. The research further advances by adding methanol to the acid mix, resulting in three distinct formulations: HCl 15 wt%, HCl 15 wt% + methanol, and HCl 7.5 wt% + methanol. Comprehensive wettability alteration tests and coreflood experiments were conducted to evaluate the efficacy of these systems in permeability enhancement. The HCl 7.5 wt% + methanol formulation demonstrated superior performance in permeability improvement and condensate blockage reduction, outshining the other systems. Notably, this new acid system effectively altered wettability from hydrophobic to hydrophilic, facilitating the passage of condensate through the pore throats and thus aiding in the removal of blockages. The integration of methanol with HCl, particularly at a 7.5 wt% concentration, represents a significant advancement in the treatment of condensate blockage in gas reservoirs, promising to improve gas recovery rates by addressing the challenges posed by low-permeability formations.
Multidrug-resistant bacterial infections in the liver transplant setting
Authors: Ferrarese Alberto , Senzolo Marco , Sasset Lolita , Bassi Domenico , Cillo Umberto , Burra Patrizia
Published: June 2024

Bacterial infections pose a life-threatening complication in patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis and acute-on-chronic liver failure. An increasing prevalence of infections caused by multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) has been observed in these patients, significantly impacting prognosis. A growing body of evidence has identified the most common risk factors for such infections, enabling the development of preventive strategies and therapeutic interventions. MDRO infections may also occur after liver transplantation (most commonly in the early post-operative phase), affecting both graft and patient survival. This review provides an overview of MDRO infections before and after liver transplantation, discussing epidemiological aspects, risk factors, prevention strategies, and novel therapeutic approaches. Furthermore, it examines the implications of MDRO infections in the context of prioritizing liver transplantation for the most severe patients, such as those with acute-on-chronic liver failure.
Toward an Ethics of AI Belief
Authors: Ma Winnie , Valton Vincent
Published: June 2024

In this paper we, an epistemologist and a machine learning scientist, argue that we need to pursue a novel area of philosophical research in AI – the ethics of belief for AI. Here we take the ethics of belief to refer to a field at the intersection of epistemology and ethics concerned with possible moral, practical, and other non-truth-related dimensions of belief. In this paper we will primarily be concerned with the normative question within the ethics of belief regarding what agents – both human and artificial – ought to believe, rather than with questions concerning whether beliefs meet certain evaluative standards such as being true, being justified, constituting knowledge, etc. We suggest four topics in extant work in the ethics of (human) belief that can be applied to an ethics of AI belief: doxastic wronging by AI (morally wronging someone in virtue of beliefs held about them); morally owed beliefs (beliefs that agents are morally obligated to hold); pragmatic and moral encroachment (cases where the practical or moral features of a belief is relevant to its epistemic status, and in our case specifically to whether an agent ought to hold the belief); and moral responsibility for AI beliefs. We also indicate two relatively nascent areas of philosophical research that haven’t yet been generally recognized as ethics of AI belief research, but that do fall within this field of research in virtue of investigating various moral and practical dimensions of belief: the epistemic and ethical decolonization of AI; and epistemic injustice in AI.
A Novel Feature Selection Approach-Based Sampling Theory on Grapevine Images Using Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Özaltın Öznur , Koyuncu Nursel
Published: June 2024

Feature selection, reducing number of input variables to develop classification model, is an important process to reduce computational and modeling complexity and affects the performance of image process. In this paper, we have proposed new statistical approaches for feature selection based on sample selection. We have applied our new approaches to grapevine leaves data that possess properties of shape, thickness, featheriness, and slickness that are investigated in images. To analyze such kind of data by using image process, thousands of features are created and selection of features plays important role to predict the outcome properly. In our numerical study, convolutional neural networks have been used as feature extractors and then obtained features from the last average pooling layer to detect the type of grapevine leaves from images. These features have been reduced by using our suggested four statistical methods: simple random sampling, ranked set sampling, extreme ranked set sampling, moving extreme ranked set sampling. Then, selected features have been classified with artificial neural network and we obtained the best accuracy of 97.33% with our proposed approaches. Based on our empirical analysis, it has been determined that the proposed approach exhibits efficacy in the classification of grapevine leaf types. Furthermore, it possesses the potential for integration into various computational devices.
Indigenous rights, social media and protest movements in Sápmi
Authors: Kyllönen Katri-Maaria , Kirchner Stefan , Poelzer Gregory , Lesser Pamela , Fjellborg Daniel
Published: June 2024

Following the rush to minerals that would enable the shift towards green economies, the Sámi homeland is quickly becoming a crucible for the rising tensions surrounding the potential for new mining projects and large-scale infrastructure projects. The roots of these conflicts date back to the colonization of the north and continue in the present with the ongoing fight to maintain the Sámi heritage, language and culture, and increasingly to gain ownership of their lands. What initially began as activism within the legal system has, on occasions, transformed into outright protests. Social media increasingly plays a key role in disseminating the message of Indigenous protest among the protesters themselves and feeding into the national and international mainstream media. This shift occurs simultaneously with the construction of a dual narrative, constituted of both land-use protest and intensified demands for Indigenous rights, including, first and foremost, the right to self-determination. Drawing from Social media theory literature and the concepts of political opportunity structures (POS) and legal opportunity structures (LOS), this study argues that social media is one of the most essential tools used by Sámi activists to raise awareness about issue-based protests as well as to communicate demands for the right to self-determination when legal and political opportunity structures are not enough to support the cause. The power of social media lies in its accessibility, immediacy and visuality, which is illustrated in the article via specific examples of mining and railway construction protests in Finland and Sweden. Social media does not replace older tools, such as international human rights litigation, but their use can complement existing strategies for defending and advancing Indigenous rights.
Description of New Morphological Variation of Culex (Culex) coronator Dyar and Knab, 1906 and First Report of Culex (Carrollia) bonnei Dyar, 1921 Found in the Central Region of Peru
Authors: Montalvo-Sabino Eddyson , Marquez-Ocaña Omayra P. , Otiniano-Moreno Griselda A. , Chuquiyauri-Talenas Miguel A. , Melo Tiago , Seixas Gonçalo , Parreira Ricardo , de Almeida António Paulo Gouveia
Published: June 2024

Mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) pose a significant threat to public health worldwide, especially in tropical and subtropical regions, where they act as primary vectors in transmission of infectious agents. In Peru, 182 culicid species have been identified and several species of the genus Culex are known to transmit arboviruses. However, knowledge of mosquito diversity and distribution remains limited, with many studies focusing on specific regions only. Here, we describe a new morphological variation of Cx. (Culex) coronator Dyar and Knab, 1906, and report the presence of Culex (Carrollia) bonnei Dyar, 1921 in the central region of Peru, Huanuco. Specimens were obtained through larvae collections and identified through morphologic characterization, including dissection of male genitalia, and molecular analyses. In total, 17 mosquitoes were analyzed, and the genitalia of the male specimens allowed the identification of Cx. coronator and Cx. bonnei. Partial sequences of the CoxI gene corresponding to these two species were obtained (N = 10). Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the sequences of Cx. coronator grouped in a monophyletic clade with sequences ascribed to other species corresponding to the subgenus Carrollia, while Cx. bonnei specimens formed a monophyletic clade with homologous sequences from GenBank. This study underscores the importance of continued efforts to study the diversity and distribution of mosquitoes in Peru, including their potential role as vectors of human pathogens, to underpin effective disease control and prevention strategies, highlighting the importance of a complemented morphological and molecular analysis.