bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Needs of social isolation, loneliness, and intergenerational interventions in the United States: a scoping review
Authors: Holloway Jeremy , James Dara L. , Robillard Alyssa , Hermer Janice , Hawley Nanako , Sayeed Owais
Published: August 2024

Social isolation and loneliness are major health concerns for older adults in the United States. This scoping review examines the effectiveness of intergenerational interventions aimed at reducing social isolation and loneliness among older adults in the United States, specifically through programs that engage university students from healthcare-related fields in one-on-one settings with older adults, as reports of lacking geriatric training of healthcare students causes older adult neglect to persist in the healthcare workforce. The importance of addressing these issues is underscored by significant health risks and substantial economic burdens, with social isolation and loneliness potentially increasing mortality and costing Medicare an estimated $6.7 billion annually. Covering literature from 2010 to 2022, this review critically assesses the role of such interventions in fostering social connections and improving both physical and mental health outcomes. Despite the positive preliminary results indicating significant reductions in loneliness and enhancements in social networks among participants, the review highlights considerable gaps in current research, particularly in structured intervention curricula, demographic reporting and detailed intervention descriptions. This underscores the need for more rigorous and standardized research methodologies to better understand the effectiveness and potential of intergenerational programs as interventions against the detrimental effects of social isolation and loneliness among older adults.
Association between physical activity level and diabetes incidence among Chinese middle-aged and older adults: a cross-sectional study from the China health and retirement longitudinal study
Authors: Zhang Yunqing , Meng Fanhao , Fei Xueyin , Wang Ke , Wu Yigao , Wang Xueting
Published: August 2024

Background

It has been shown that diabetes is associated with insufficient physical activity among middle-aged and older adults, but the association between different physical activity levels (PAL) and diabetes incidence needs to be further explored.

Objective

This study aims to explore the correlation and dose–response relationship between different PAL and the diabetes incidence in middle-aged and older adults.

Methods

Utilizing data from the 2018 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS), this cross-sectional analysis included 17,226 middle-aged and older adults aged 45 and above. Binary logistic regression models and restricted cubic spline (RCS) were used to explore the correlation and dose–response relationship between different PAL and the incidence of diabetes in the total middle-aged and older adults population as well as in subgroups. Sensitivity analyses were also performed to verify the robustness of the findings.

Results

In the entire study population, compared with the lowest PAL, participants in the third and fourth quartiles PAL saw diabetes incidence significantly reduced by 16% (p = 0.005) and 33% (p < 0.001), respectively (pfor trend < 0.001). In subgroup analyses, the fourth quartile PAL significantly reduced the diabetes incidence among females, individuals aged 60–69, and rural residents by 25% (p = 0.011), 38% (p < 0.001) and 28% (p < 0.001), respectively. For males, middle-aged (45–59 years), and urban residents, the third quartile PAL reduced diabetes incidence by 22% (p = 0.004), 24% (p = 0.012), 21% (p = 0.013), respectively. When the fourth quartile PAL was reached, the diabetes incidence was significantly reduced in these populations by 41% (p < 0.001), 39% (p < 0.001), and 41% (p < 0.001), respectively. There was a negative dose–response relationship between physical activity and diabetes incidence in specific Chinese middle-aged and older adults population. In addition, sensitivity analyses indicated the robustness of the findings.

Conclusion

Higher PAL was associated with lower diabetes incidence in specific Chinese middle-aged and older adults population. It is feasible to use physical activity to predict diabetes incidence in this demographic, and high PAL may be an effective means of preventing and controlling diabetes.
Enhanced accuracy with Segmentation of Colorectal Polyp using NanoNetB, and Conditional Random Field Test-Time Augmentation
Authors: Hussain Muhammad Sajjad , Asgher Umer , Nisar Sajid , Socha Vladimir , Shaukat Arslan , Wang Jinhui , Feng Tian , Paracha Rehan Zafar , Khan Muhammad Ali
Published: August 2024

Colonoscopy is a reliable diagnostic method to detect colorectal polyps early on and prevent colorectal cancer. The current examination techniques face a significant challenge of high missed rates, resulting in numerous undetected polyps and irregularities. Automated and real-time segmentation methods can help endoscopists to segment the shape and location of polyps from colonoscopy images in order to facilitate clinician’s timely diagnosis and interventions. Different parameters like shapes, small sizes of polyps, and their close resemblance to surrounding tissues make this task challenging. Furthermore, high-definition image quality and reliance on the operator make real-time and accurate endoscopic image segmentation more challenging. Deep learning models utilized for segmenting polyps, designed to capture diverse patterns, are becoming progressively complex. This complexity poses challenges for real-time medical operations. In clinical settings, utilizing automated methods requires the development of accurate, lightweight models with minimal latency, ensuring seamless integration with endoscopic hardware devices. To address these challenges, in this study a novel lightweight and more generalized Enhanced Nanonet model, an improved version of Nanonet using NanonetB for real-time and precise colonoscopy image segmentation, is proposed. The proposed model enhances the performance of Nanonet using Nanonet B on the overall prediction scheme by applying data augmentation, Conditional Random Field (CRF), and Test-Time Augmentation (TTA). Six publicly available datasets are utilized to perform thorough evaluations, assess generalizability, and validate the improvements: Kvasir-SEG, Endotect Challenge 2020, Kvasir-instrument, CVC-ClinicDB, CVC-ColonDB, and CVC-300. Through extensive experimentation, using the Kvasir-SEG dataset, our model achieves a mIoU score of 0.8188 and a Dice coefficient of 0.8060 with only 132,049 parameters and employing minimal computational resources. A thorough cross-dataset evaluation was performed to assess the generalization capability of the proposed Enhanced Nanonet model across various publicly available polyp datasets for potential real-world applications. The result of this study shows that using CRF (Conditional Random Fields) and TTA (Test-Time Augmentation) enhances performance within the same dataset and also across diverse datasets with a model size of just 132,049 parameters. Also, the proposed method indicates improved results in detecting smaller and sessile polyps (flats) that are significant contributors to the high miss rates.
A sustainability assessment of the modern method of construction in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Almutairi Kamel , Alahmadi Ramzi , Halawani Ahmed T. M. , Almutairi Yasir , Alsehaimi Abduallah
Published: August 2024

By 2030, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) is seeking to increase homeownership to 70%. This has led to a considerable investment in residential construction, with the Housing Ministry establishing a stimulus program to enhance the use of Modern Methods of Construction (MMC). These technologies offer several benefits, including cost and time reduction, improved quality and productivity, and job creation. This study quantitatively analyzes the economic impacts of MMC adaptation on the Saudi economy using the Global Trade Analysis Project (GTAP) model. It considers incentives to adopt MMC, its technological advancements, and the skills currently available in the Saudi labor market. Moreover, the embodied carbon emissions of MMC are calculated using the Input–Output Life Cycle Assessment Approach (IO-LCA); the detailed environmental emissions from the transportation phase, accounting for material reduction, are assessed using the COPERT model and compared to conventional construction. The results reveal an increase of 1.92% in Saudi GDP, along with improved welfare of $28.5 billion and a notable increase in the sectors related to construction. Job creation is demonstrated by an increase in the employment of unskilled and skilled labor by 2.02 and 1.5%, respectively. The paper concludes that MMC’s total embodied carbon emissions were approximately 77 million metric tonnes CO2, while its transport-related emissions are less than conventional approaches.
Differences in aquatic respiration in two contrasting streams: forested vs. agricultural
Authors: Dorley Jancoba , Singley Joel , Covino Tim , Singha Kamini , Gooseff Michael N. , González-Pinzón Ricardo
Published: August 2024

Land cover changes alter hydrologic (e.g., infiltration-runoff), biochemical (e.g., nutrient loads), and ecological processes (e.g., stream metabolism). We quantified differences in aquatic ecosystem respiration in two contrasting stream reaches from a forested watershed in Colorado (1st-order reach) and an agricultural watershed in Iowa (3rd-order reach). We conducted two rounds of experiments in each of these reaches, featuring four sets of continuous injections of Cl− as a conservative tracer, resazurin as a proxy for aerobic respiration, and one of the following nutrient treatments: (a) N, (b) N + C, (c) N + P, and (d) C + N + P. With those methods providing consistent information about solute transport, stream respiration, and nutrient processing at the same spatiotemporal scales, we sought to address: (1) Are respiration rates correlated with conservative transport metrics in forested or agricultural streams? and (2) Can short-term modifications of stoichiometric conditions (C:N:P ratios) override respiration patterns, or do long-term physicochemical conditions control those patterns? We found greater respiration in the reach located in the forested watershed but no correlations between respiration, discharge, and advective or transient storage timescales. All the experiments conducted in the agricultural stream featured a reaction-limited transformation of resazurin, suggesting the existence of nutrient or carbon limitations on respiration that our short-term nutrient treatments did not remove. In contrast, the forested stream was characterized by nearly balanced transformation and transient storage timescales. We also found that our short-lived nutrient treatments had minimal influence on the significantly different respiration patterns observed between reaches, which are most likely driven by the longer-term and highly contrasting ambient nutrient concentrations at each site. Our experimental results agree with large-scale analyses suggesting greater microbial respiration in headwater streams in the U.S. Western Mountains region than in second-to-third-order streams in the U.S. Temperate Plains region.
Monte Carlo-based in-depth morphological analysis of medullary cavity for designing personalized femoral stem
Authors: Wang Lin , Sun Hui , Guo Kaijin , He Kunjin , Geng Weizhong , Zhou Wen , Wei Jian
Published: August 2024

Background

The design of femoral stem prostheses requires a precise understanding of the femoral marrow cavity. Traditional measurements of morphological parameters in the upper femur, particularly the medullary cavity and cortical region, are primarily based on coronal and sagittal axes, which may not fully capture the true three-dimensional structure of the femur.

Methods

Propose a Monte Carlo-based method for a more comprehensive analysis of the femoral marrow cavity, using CT scans of femurs from a selected group of patients. The study aimed to define and calculate anatomically semantic morphological parameters to enhance the understanding of the femoral marrow cavity's anatomical morphological changes, ultimately improving the design and clinical selection of femoral stem prostheses. To enhance the accuracy of femoral stem prosthesis design, this study aims to develop a Monte Carlo-based method for a more comprehensive analysis of the femoral marrow cavity. The proposed method transforms the non-random problem of determining cross-sectional size into a random issue, allowing for the calculation of the size of the medullary cavity and cortical region. Anatomically semantic morphological parameters are then defined, calculated, and analyzed.

Results

The experimental results indicate that the newly defined parameters complement existing ones, providing a more rational scientific basis for understanding the anatomical morphological changes of the femoral marrow cavity.

Conclusion

This research offers essential scientific theoretical support for improved morphologic research, design, and clinical selection of femoral stem prostheses. It holds significant importance and application value in clinical practice, contributing to a more accurate and comprehensive understanding of femoral anatomy for prosthetic design.
Pesticides in the population of European hedgehogs (Erinaceus europaeus) in Denmark
Authors: Rasmussen Sophie Lund , Roslev Peter , Nielsen Jeppe Lund , Pertoldi Cino , Vorkamp Katrin
Published: August 2024

European hedgehogs (Erinaceus europaeus) inhabit most of Denmark, except for a few smaller islands. Research from other European countries has shown that the hedgehog populations are in decline. The exposure to chemicals might contribute to this development, although their role is currently unknown. Our research studied the occurrence of 19 selected pesticides in the Danish hedgehog population as well as factors potentially explaining the levels of chemicals detected. We analysed 115 liver samples obtained from dead hedgehogs in 2016 for seven rodenticides, four insecticides and eight herbicides commonly used in Denmark at the time of sampling, applying a high-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) method. Detection frequencies varied between 0.9% for fluroxypyr and trans-permethrin and 79% for bromadiolone. Rodenticides, insecticides and herbicides were detected in 84, 43, and 50% of the samples, respectively. The compounds most frequently detected included the insecticide imidacloprid (35%), the herbicide metamitron (29%) and the rodenticide bromadiolone (79%). Individual concentrations varied between non-detected to >2 μg/g. A total of 79% of the 115 hedgehogs contained more than one detectable pesticide, with up to nine of the 19 compounds detected in one individual. The detection frequencies were found to differ significantly between the Eastern and Western part of Denmark for difenacoum, difethialone and imidacloprid. However, no associations were found with sex, age, habitat type or the prevalence of mecC-MRSA and endoparasites in the hedgehogs tested. Whether or not the pesticide levels detected carry a health risk for the hedgehogs remains unknown as no adverse effect levels have yet been established for European hedgehogs for single compounds or pesticide mixtures.
Early Detection of Chronic Kidney Disease Using Plasma Neutrophil Gelatinase-Associated Lipocalin and Kidney Injury Molecule-1 in Small-Breed Dogs: A Retrospective Pilot Study
Authors: Kim Hyo-Sung , Kim Han-Jun , Do Sun-Hee
Published: August 2024

Multiple diagnostic modalities are urgently needed to identify early-stage kidney diseases. Various molecules have been investigated; however, most studies have focused on identifying specific biomarkers in urine. Considering that assessing the symmetrical dimethylarginine (SDMA) plasma concentration is more suitable as an early diagnostic test for chronic kidney disease (CKD) in routine veterinary practice, we aimed to investigate the clinical usefulness of plasma neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (pNGAL) and plasma kidney injury molecule-1 (pKIM-1) concentrations for CKD detection in small-breed dogs. Through a retrospective analysis, we found that numerous clinicopathological data showed a log-normal distribution, even when they satisfied normality tests. Moreover, the log-transformed pNGAL and pKIM-1 concentrations successfully identified CKD International Renal Interest Society (IRIS) stages 1–4 and the risk group with underlying CKD risk factors. Correlation analysis and group comparison of other factors confirmed the possibility of using these two biomarkers for detecting the CKD risk group and IRIS stage 1. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis revealed that the diagnostic accuracy for discriminating the risk group was superior in the order of pKIM-1, pNGAL, SDMA, and serum creatinine levels. In conclusion, these results suggest that pKIM-1 and pNGAL are possible early or quantifiable markers of insignificant CKD or can be at least used as an adjunct with traditional indicators.
Design of Volume Parameters of Large-Particle-Size Asphalt Mixture Based on the Vertical Vibration Compaction Method
Authors: Jiang Yingjun , Cai Minfeng , Li Sheng , Zhang Yu , Yi Yong , Su Hongjian , Bai Chenfan
Published: August 2024

Volume parameters such as the volume of voids (VV), voids filled with asphalt (VFA), and voids in mineral aggregates (VMA) all have significant impact on asphalt mixtures. In this study, the vertical vibration compaction method (VVCM) was employed to produce a large-particle-size asphalt mixture (LSAM-50). The correlations between the mechanical strengths of VVCM specimens, static compression test (PCT) specimens, and in situ core samples were verified. Additionally, the influence of volumetric parameters on the mechanical properties of VVCM specimens was assessed. Based on the principle of optimal mechanical properties, volume parameter design standards for the LSAM-50 asphalt mixture were proposed. Results indicated that the mechanical properties correlation between VVCM specimens and in situ core samples was substantial, reaching over 90%. With increasing VV and VFA, the compressive strength, splitting strength, and dynamic stability of the LSAM-50 asphalt mixture initially increased and then decreased. The design standards for VV were proposed to be between 3.5% and 4.8%, and for VFA between 49.7% and 52.9%. There was no clear correlation between VMA and the mechanical properties of the mixture; hence, based on the standards, the minimum design value for VMA was set at 7.5%.
Unraveling the Muscle Activation Equation: 3D Scoliosis-Specific Exercises and Muscle Response in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis
Authors: Haksever Bunyamin , Soylu Caglar , Demir Pervin , Yildirim Necmiye Un
Published: August 2024

This study aimed to analyze both thoracic and lumbar erector spinae muscle activations during three different types of 3-dimensional elongation exercises in individuals with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). Participants included 24 adolescents with AIS with a double curve (S type scoliosis), meeting specific criteria, such as a Cobb angle between 10° and 20° and not having undergone surgical or brace treatments. Electromyography (EMG) data were collected to evaluate muscle activation. Three-dimensional scoliosis-specific exercises were applied as 3 different exercise types with TheraBand resistance, manual stimulation, and breathing inducement from convex side to concave side until a symmetric position was maintained with self-correction. Different exercise types significantly affected muscle activity, with the highest activations in TheraBand resistance, followed by manual and just breathing inducement conditions for the convex and concave sides of the thoracic and lumbar regions. This suggests that exercise type significantly impacts muscle engagement in AIS patients, providing valuable insights for targeted exercise program design. Specially, the muscle activation of TheraBand resistive exercise can be an alternative with more muscle activation and motivational effects during a 3D scoliosis-specific exercise program.
Sedentary Lifestyle, Heart Rate Variability, and the Influence on Spine Posture in Adults: A Systematic Review Study
Authors: Fathima Deena , Lobo Joss , Angioi Manuela , Błach Wiesław , Rydzik Łukasz , Ambroży Tadeusz , Malliaropoulos Nikos
Published: August 2024

(1) Background: The rise in sedentary lifestyles has led to more spinal malformations in the population. These malformations are connected to the body’s autonomic function, which can negatively impact long-term health. Heart rate variability can be used as a marker to measure how different postures affect autonomic health. This systematic review aims to explore the link between posture and heart rate variability and evaluate potential interventions to address the consequences of sedentary lifestyles. (2) Methods: Data sources: Studies exploring the relationship between posture and heart rate variability were found using PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane on 1 July 24. Eligibility criteria: People aged 18 years or above with a sedentary lifestyle were included. Studies involving children or participants with spinal/musculoskeletal conditions impacting their ability to walk or sit were excluded as they would not accurately reflect posture analysis. PRISMA guidelines were followed throughout, and the quality assessment was achieved using the QualSyst tool. (3) Results: Out of the 753 papers identified, only five met the eligibility criteria. These studies exhibited heterogeneity regarding interventions, aims, and participant populations. All five studies were prospective case series, enabling analysis and comparisons. (4) Conclusions: According to this study, the seated position, especially the forward truncal flexion, had the most significant impact on heart rate variability and sympathetic tone. It may be inferred that sedentary behavior encourages this stress on the body, which can affect one’s health, increasing the mortality rate.
Rapid and Precise Zoom Lens Design Based on Voice Coil Motors with Tunnel Magnetoresistance Sensors
Authors: Gong Junqiang , Luo Jianbin
Published: August 2024

In response to the zooming delay issue during the transition from a wide-area search to high-resolution target identification in high-magnification zoom lenses, we propose a drive technology based on voice coil motors. The linear motion of the motor is directly converted into the linear movement of the zoom lens group, significantly enhancing the zoom speed. Additionally, we introduce a high-precision closed-loop control technology utilizing a magnetic scale to achieve the rapid and precise positioning of the zoom lens group. The magnetic scale detection technology achieves precise positioning by detecting periodic changes in the magnetic field, working in conjunction with tunnel magnetoresistance sensors. Demonstrated with a 40× zoom lens example, this study elaborates on the motion trajectory planning and structural dimension design process of a voice coil motor, culminating in the assembly of a physical prototype. Practical validation experiments show that the full zoom time of the lens utilizing our technology is less than 0.3 s, where the full zoom time refers to the time required for the lens to zoom from the wide-angle end to the telephoto end. In positioning accuracy test experiments, lenses using our technology achieved a positioning deviation of less than 5 μm.
On the Relation between Wind Speed and Maximum or Mean Water Wave Height
Authors: Balkissoon Sarah , Li Y. Charles , Lupo Anthony R. , Walsh Samuel , McGuire Lukas
Published: August 2024

Dimensional analysis shows that the relation between wind speed and maximum or mean water wave height takes the form H=cU02g, where H is the maximum or mean water wave height caused by wind of speed U0, g is the gravitational acceleration, and c is a dimensionless constant. This relation is important in predicting the maximum or mean water wave height caused by a tropical cyclone. Firstly, the mathematical and theoretical justification for determining c is presented. Verification is conducted using four tropical cyclones as case studies for determining c using significant wave heights rather than the overall maximum and mean. The observed values of c are analyzed statistically. On the days when the fixed buoy captured the highest wind speeds, the frequency distributions of the data for c are close to a bell shape with very small standard deviations in comparison with the mean values; thus, the mean values provide good predictions for c. In view of the fact that tropical cyclone waves are turbulent and the background waves caused by many other factors such as lunar tidal effect cannot be ignored, the obtained results for c are quite satisfactory. This method provides a direct approach in the prediction of the wave height or the wind speeds given the c value and can serve an interpolation methodology to increase the temporal resolution of the data.
Claudio Mendoza (1951–2024)
Authors: Bautista Plaza Manuel
Published: August 2024

I met Claudio in 1989 when I was starting the last year of my physics bachelor’s degree [...]
Evolutionary Fate of the Opine Synthesis Genes in the Arachis L. Genomes
Authors: Bogomaz Olesja D. , Bemova Victoria D. , Mirgorodskii Nikita A. , Matveeva Tatiana V.
Published: August 2024

Naturally transgenic plants are plants that have undergone Agrobacterium-mediated transformation under natural conditions without human involvement. Among Arachis hypogaea L., A. duranensis Krapov. & W.C. Greg, A. ipaensis Krapov. & W.C. Greg, A. monticola Krapov. & Rigoni, and A. stenosperma Krapov. & W.C. Greg are known to contain sequences derived from the T-DNA of “Agrobacterium”. In the present study, using molecular genetics and bioinformatic methods, we characterized natural transgenes in 18 new species from six sections of the genus Arachis. We found that small fragments of genes for enzymes of the agropine synthesis pathway were preserved only in some of the studied samples and were lost in the majority of the species during evolution. At the same time, genes, similar to cucumopine synthases (cus-like), remained intact in almost all of the investigated species. In cultivated peanuts, they are expressed in a tissue-specific manner. We demonstrated the intraspecific variability of the structure and expression of the cus-like gene in cultivated peanuts. The described diversity of gene sequences horizontally transferred from Agrobacterium to plants helps to shed light on the phylogeny of species of the genus Arachis and track possible hybridization events. Data on the ability of certain species to hybridize are useful for planning breeding schemes aimed at transferring valuable traits from wild species into cultivated peanuts.
Harnessing Porphyrin Accumulation in Liver Cancer: Combining Genomic Data and Drug Targeting
Authors: Adapa Swamy R. , Meshram Pravin , Sami Abdus , Jiang Rays H. Y.
Published: August 2024

The liver, a pivotal organ in human metabolism, serves as a primary site for heme biosynthesis, alongside bone marrow. Maintaining precise control over heme production is paramount in healthy livers to meet high metabolic demands while averting potential toxicity from intermediate metabolites, notably protoporphyrin IX. Intriguingly, our recent research uncovers a disrupted heme biosynthesis process termed ‘porphyrin overdrive’ in cancers that fosters the accumulation of heme intermediates, potentially bolstering tumor survival. Here, we investigate heme and porphyrin metabolism in both healthy and oncogenic human livers, utilizing primary human liver transcriptomics and single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq). Our investigations unveil robust gene expression patterns in heme biosynthesis in healthy livers, supporting electron transport chain (ETC) and cytochrome P450 function without intermediate accumulation. Conversely, liver cancers exhibit rewired heme biosynthesis and a massive downregulation of cytochrome P450 gene expression. Notably, despite diminished drug metabolism, gene expression analysis shows that heme supply to the ETC remains largely unaltered or even elevated with patient cancer progression, suggesting a metabolic priority shift. Liver cancers selectively accumulate intermediates, which are absent in normal tissues, implicating their role in disease advancement as inferred by expression analysis. Furthermore, our findings in genomics establish a link between the aberrant gene expression of porphyrin metabolism and inferior overall survival in aggressive cancers, indicating potential targets for clinical therapy development. We provide in vitro proof-of-concept data on targeting porphyrin overdrive with a drug synergy strategy.
Sirt1: An Increasingly Interesting Molecule with a Potential Role in Bone Metabolism and Osteoporosis
Authors: Chen Yi , Xiao Hefang , Liu Zirui , Teng Fei , Yang Ao , Geng Bin , Sheng Xiaoyun , Xia Yayi
Published: August 2024

Osteoporosis (OP) is a common metabolic bone disease characterized by low bone mass, decreased bone mineral density, and degradation of bone tissue microarchitecture. However, our understanding of the mechanisms of bone remodeling and factors affecting bone mass remains incomplete. Sirtuin1 (SIRT1) is a nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide-dependent deacetylase that regulates a variety of cellular metabolisms, including inflammation, tumorigenesis, and bone metabolism. Recent studies have emphasized the important role of SIRT1 in bone homeostasis. This article reviews the role of SIRT1 in bone metabolism and OP and also discusses therapeutic strategies and future research directions for targeting SIRT1.
Putting It All Together: The Roles of Ribosomal Proteins in Nucleolar Stages of 60S Ribosomal Assembly in the Yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Ayers Taylor N. , Woolford John L.
Published: August 2024

Here we review the functions of ribosomal proteins (RPs) in the nucleolar stages of large ribosomal subunit assembly in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. We summarize the effects of depleting RPs on pre-rRNA processing and turnover, on the assembly of other RPs, and on the entry and exit of assembly factors (AFs). These results are interpreted in light of recent near-atomic-resolution cryo-EM structures of multiple assembly intermediates. Results are discussed with respect to each neighborhood of RPs and rRNA. We identify several key mechanisms related to RP behavior. Neighborhoods of RPs can assemble in one or more than one step. Entry of RPs can be triggered by molecular switches, in which an AF is replaced by an RP binding to the same site. To drive assembly forward, rRNA structure can be stabilized by RPs, including clamping rRNA structures or forming bridges between rRNA domains.
Predicting Adolescents’ Leisure-Time Physical Activity Levels: A Three-Wave Prospective Test of the Integrated Model of Self-Determination Theory and the Theory of Planned Behavior
Authors: Su Diana L. Y. , Wan Alison W. L. , Zhang Lei , Teng Jun , Chan Derwin K. C.
Published: August 2024

A three-wave prospective study was conducted to provide a better understanding of the ability of the integrated model of self-determination theory (SDT) and the theory of planned behavior (TPB) to predict future physical activity (PA) engagement among adolescents. Nearly 2500 secondary school students from China were recruited to test the hypothesized pathway from autonomous motivation from SDT at baseline (T1) through the constructs of TPB one month later (T2) on leisure-time PA levels of secondary school students three months later (T3). The findings revealed that the structural equation models yielded excellent fit indices with χ2 = 1858.989, df = 257, CFI = 0.936, TLI = 0.926, RMSEA = 0.050 [90% CI = 0.048 to 0.052], and SRMR = 0.032. In particular, autonomous motivation at T1 was positively associated with attitude (R2 = 0.160), subjective norms (R2 = 0.160), and perceived behavioral control (PBC) (R2 = 0.173) at T2 (β = 0.395 to 0.414, p < 0.001) and subsequently associated with intention at T2 (R2 = 0.875, β = 0.112 to 0.478, p < 0.001). T2 intention was positively associated with leisure-time PA levels (R2 = 0.004) at T3. Our findings contribute to a better understanding of the motivational mechanisms and social cognition processes involved in predicting adolescents’ leisure-time PA levels among adolescents.
A Multidisciplinary Update on Treatment Modalities for Metastatic Spinal Tumors with a Surgical Emphasis: A Literature Review and Evaluation of the Role of Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Houston Rebecca , Desai Shivum , Takayanagi Ariel , Quynh Thu Tran Christina , Mortezaei Ali , Oladaskari Alireza , Sourani Arman , Siddiqi Imran , Khodayari Behnood , Ho Allen , Hariri Omid
Published: August 2024

Spinal metastases occur in up to 40% of patients with cancer. Of these cases, 10% become symptomatic. The reported incidence of spinal metastases has increased in recent years due to innovations in imaging modalities and oncological treatments. As the incidence of spinal metastases rises, so does the demand for improved treatments and treatment algorithms, which now emphasize greater multidisciplinary collaboration and are increasingly customized per patient. Uniquely, we discuss the potential clinical applications of AI and NGS in the treatment of spinal metastases. Material and Methods: A PubMed search for articles published from 2000 to 2023 regarding spinal metastases and artificial intelligence in healthcare was completed. After screening for relevance, the key findings from each study were summarized in this update. Results: This review summarizes the evidence from studies reporting on treatment modalities for spinal metastases, including minimally invasive surgery (MIS), external beam radiation therapy (EBRT), stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS), CFR-PEEK instrumentation, radiofrequency ablation (RFA), next-generation sequencing (NGS), artificial intelligence, and predictive models.
Surface Markers and Chemokines/Cytokines of Tumor-Associated Macrophages in Osteosarcoma and Other Carcinoma Microenviornments—Contradictions and Comparisons
Authors: Tatsuno Rikito , Komohara Yoshihiro , Pan Cheng , Kawasaki Tomonori , Enomoto Atsushi , Jubashi Takahiro , Kono Hiroyuki , Wako Masanori , Ashizawa Tomoyuki , Haro Hirotaka , Ichikawa Jiro
Published: August 2024

Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most common primary bone tumor in children and adolescents. Prognosis is improving with advances in multidisciplinary treatment strategies, but the development of new anticancer agents has not, and improvement in prognosis for patients with pulmonary metastases has stalled. In recent years, the tumor microenvironment (TME) has gained attention as a therapeutic target for cancer. The immune component of OS TME consists mainly of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). They exhibit remarkable plasticity, and their phenotype is influenced by the TME. In general, surface markers such as CD68 and CD80 show anti-tumor effects, while CD163 and CD204 show tumor-promoting effects. Surface markers have potential value as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers. The cytokines and chemokines produced by TAMs promote tumor growth and metastasis. However, the role of TAMs in OS remains unclear to date. In this review, we describe the role of TAMs in OS by focusing on TAM surface markers and the TAM-produced cytokines and chemokines in the TME, and by comparing their behaviors in other carcinomas. We found contrary results from different studies. These findings highlight the urgency for further research in this field to improve the stalled OS prognosis percentages.
Adropin Predicts Asymptomatic Heart Failure in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Independent of the Levels of Natriuretic Peptides
Authors: Berezina Tetiana A. , Berezin Oleksandr O. , Hoppe Uta C. , Lichtenauer Michael , Berezin Alexander E.
Published: August 2024

In patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), asymptomatic adverse cardiac remodeling plays a pivotal role in the development of heart failure (HF). Patients with T2DM often have low or near-normal levels of natriuretic peptides, including N-terminal brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), which have been inconclusive in predicting the transition from asymptomatic adverse cardiac remodeling to HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). The aim of this study was to elucidate the predictive ability of adropin for HFpEF depending on the circulating levels of NT-proBNP. We prospectively enrolled 561 T2DM patients (glycated hemoglobin < 6.9%) with echocardiographic evidence of structural cardiac abnormalities and left ventricular ejection fractions >50%. All patients underwent B-mode transthoracic echocardiographic and Doppler examinations. Circulating biomarkers, i.e., NT-proBNP and adropin, were assessed at baseline. All individuals were divided into two groups according to the presence of low levels (<125 pmol/mL; n = 162) or elevated levels (≥125 pmol/mL; n = 399) of NT-proBNP. Patients with known asymptomatic adverse cardiac remodeling and elevated NT-proBNP were classified as having asymptomatic HFpEF. A multivariate logistic regression showed that low serum levels of adropin (<3.5 ng/mL), its combination with any level of NT-proBNP, and use of SGLT2 inhibitors were independent predictors of HFpEF. However, low levels of adropin significantly increased the predictive ability of NT-proBNP for asymptomatic HFpEF in patients with T2DM, even though the concentrations of NT-proBNP were low, while adropin added discriminatory value to all concentrations of NT-proBNP. In conclusion, low levels of adropin significantly increase the predictive ability of NT-proBNP for asymptomatic HFpEF in patients with T2DM.
Posttraumatic Cutaneous Meningioma with a “Meningiolipoma” Pattern Presenting as a Nasal Bridge Mass
Authors: Ren Dong , Lou Jerry , Kuan Edward , Perez-Rosendahl Mari , Yong William H.
Published: August 2024

Meningiomas are tumors originating from arachnoid meningothelial cells. Occasionally, meningiomas are identified outside the central nervous system, and are referred to as extracranial meningiomas (EMs). The vast majority of EMs are an extension from an intracranial or intraspinal tumor. However, primary EMs may arise from extracranial sites with the most common sites being the skin and scalp subcutis, which are further categorized as cutaneous meningiomas (CMs). CMs are rare cutaneous tumors with similar ultrastructural and cytologic findings compared to those of intracranial meningiomas, but with a wide range of histologic differences. Therefore, an assessment using a panel of investigative tools, including imaging, histopathology, and immunohistochemistry, is required to determine the diagnosis of CMs. Here, we report the case of a 64-year-old gentleman presenting with a posttraumatic well-circumscribed superficial mass overlying the right nasal bridge. We are unable to identify other cases arising in the nasal bridge.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices toward Artificial Intelligence among University Students in Lebanon
Authors: Kharroubi Samer A. , Tannir Iman , Abu El Hassan Rasha , Ballout Rouba
Published: August 2024

Background: The expansion of artificial intelligence (AI) across diverse sectors worldwide demands an understanding of its impact on future generations. The studies of its influence on university students’ behavior and application in Lebanon are still limited. The present study aimed to explore the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAPs) of university students regarding AI and to identify factors affecting these dimensions. Methods: An online questionnaire (n = 457) was distributed to university students who were at least 18 years of age across Lebanon. Results: The results revealed that a significant majority (97.2%) of the participants were familiar with AI, from which 43% demonstrated a high level of knowledge. Furthermore, attitude toward AI role and integration in academic and professional paths was moderately satisfactory (43%), although it was reportedly used by 75% of students throughout their university years. There was a significant association between knowledge levels and sociodemographic factors such as age, sex, source of AI-related information, and knowledge rating (p < 0.05), whereas the academic major and knowledge rating affected attitudes toward AI (p < 0.05). Conclusion: These findings support the incorporation of AI education within the curriculum to increase acceptance of AI as a modern tool enhancing various sectors and serving as a facilitator for teaching and learning processes.
Soft Skills and Employability of Online Graduate Students
Authors: Bedoya-Guerrero Alejandra , Basantes-Andrade Andrea , Rosales Francisco Orlando , Naranjo-Toro Miguel , León-Carlosama Rocio
Published: August 2024

In the current context, with the growing influence of Artificial Intelligence, soft skills emerge as a crucial and distinctive factor for professionals. This research focuses on assessing the relationship between soft skills and their importance in the employability of online graduate students. A mixed methodological, non-experimental and explanatory level approach was used; a sample of 192 online graduate students from a university in northern Ecuador was analyzed. Data collection was carried out through an online survey, validated with a Cronbach’s Alpha coefficient of 93.2%. The survey addressed socioeconomic data and the evaluation of soft skills through a 30-question questionnaire with a five-point Likert scale. According to the students’ perception, the soft skills most in demand for employability are leadership and teamwork. After the reduction of dimensions using multiple correspondence analysis (MCA), respondents were classified into three clusters. Individuals in clusters one and three developed soft skills such as self-regulation, effective communication, leadership and innovation.
A New Entity Relationship Extraction Method for Semi-Structured Patent Documents
Authors: Zhang Liyuan , Sun Xiangyu , Ma Xianghua , Hu Kaitao
Published: August 2024

Aimed at mitigating the limitations of the existing document entity relation extraction methods, especially the complex information interaction between different entities in the document and the poor effect of entity relation classification, according to the semi-structured characteristics of patent document data, a patent document ontology model construction method based on hierarchical clustering and association rules was proposed to describe the entities and their relations in the patent document, dubbed as MPreA. Combined with statistical learning and deep learning algorithms, the pre-trained model of the attention mechanism was fused to realize the effective extraction of entity relations. The results of the numerical simulation show that, compared with the traditional methods, our proposed method has achieved significant improvement in solving the problem of insufficient contextual information, and provides a more effective solution for patent document entity relation extraction.
Image Databases with Features Augmented with Singular-Point Shapes to Enhance Machine Learning
Authors: Sirakov Nikolay Metodiev , Bowden Adam
Published: August 2024

The main objective of this paper is to present a repository of image databases whose features are augmented with embedded vector field (VF) features. The repository is designed to provide the user with image databases that enhance machine learning (ML) classification. Also, six VFs are provided, and the user can embed them into her/his own image database with the help of software named ELPAC. Three of the VFs generate real-shaped singular points (SPs): springing, sinking, and saddle. The other three VFs generate seven kinds of SPs, which include the real-shaped SPs and four complex-shaped SPs: repelling and attracting (out and in) spirals and clockwise and counterclockwise orbits (centers). Using the repository, this work defines the locations of the SPs according to the image objects and the mappings between the SPs’ shapes if separate VFs are embedded into the same image. Next, this paper produces recommendations for the user on how to select the most appropriate VF to be embedded in an image database so that the augmented SP shapes enhance ML classification. Examples of images with embedded VFs are shown in the text to illustrate, support, and validate the theoretical conclusions. Thus, the contributions of this paper are the derivation of the SP locations in an image; mappings between the SPs of different VFs; and the definition of an imprint of an image and an image database in a VF. The advantage of classifying an image database with an embedded VF is that the new database enhances and improves the ML classification statistics, which motivates the design of the repository so that it contains image features augmented with VF features.
The Characteristics and Influential Factors of Earthworm and Vermicompost under Different Land Use in a Temperate Area, China
Authors: Ma Li , Shao Ming’an , Wang Yunqiang , Li Tongchuan , Jing Xuanxuan , Jia Kunyu , Zhang Yangyang
Published: August 2024

Earthworm communities influence soil carbon and nitrogen circulation by altering the diversity and composition of microbial communities, which improves soil fertility. Studying the soil nutrient composition and bacterial communities change in response to earthworm community natural invasion may be key to exploring earthworm ecological functions and accurately assessing C and N mineralization in artificial forests and croplands. In this study, we examined the communities of five earthworm species in ecosystems characterized by six different land-use types, such as buttonwood forest, walnut forest, apple orchard, kiwi orchard, ryegrass land, and corn field. The Metaphire baojiensis (d) and Amynthas carnosus planus were dominant earthworm species. Among different land-use types, earthworm densities ranged from 2 to 27 ind·m−2 in summer and 15 to 40 ind·m−2 in spring. However, surface vermicompost weight in summer (296.7 to 766.0 g·m−2) was greater than in spring. There was a positive correlation between the weight of the vermicompost and earthworm numbers in the same season. Soil carbon (C) and total nitrogen (N) of vermicompost ranged from 5.12 to 20.93 g·kg−1 and from 0.52 to 1.35 g·kg−1, respectively. Compared with soil, the contents of vermicompost C and N increased 2.0 to 4.3 times and 1.6 to 7.7 times, respectively. The average C/N of vermicompost (9.5~23.5) was higher than in the soil (7.3~19.8). Due to the higher abundances of C and N in the soil of corn fields and kiwi orchards, which cultivate higher abundances of earthworms and more vermicompost, the C and N and C/N of vermicompost is higher than in the soil. C and N were accumulated by earthworms’ excreting and feeding activity instead of vegetation in vermicompost. Earthworm community structure plays key roles in decreasing bacterial diversity and adding Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Acidobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Chloroflex in vermicompost, resulting in enriching soil C and N content and increasing C/N in vermicompost. Therefore, the evaluation of different vegetation ecosystems in soil C and N pool accumulation and mineralization should be given more attention regarding the function of earthworm communities in the future.