bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Free Surface Energy and Hansen Solubility Parameter Vector Field. Interface Thickness
Authors: Bailón-Moreno Rafael , Bailón-Ruiz Miguel Ángel , Aljadiri Aqeel Shaikhah Arafat
Published: July 2024

In this paper, a three-dimensional vector field model is proposed, whose dimensions are the Hansen Solubility Parameters: dispersion parameter (δD), polarity parameter (δP), and hydrogen bonding parameter (δH). The vector space that defines the field has the peculiarity of having a dispersion vector with a magnitude of 2 as its base vector, while the polarity and hydrogen bonding vectors have a magnitude of 1. A substance is characterised as a position vector, and the interaction between two substances is determined by calculating the vector difference of both, known as the interaction vector. The interaction among substances may involve solubility, swelling, cracking, surface tension, interface tension, and any physical phenomena where the intermolecular energies of dispersion, polarity or hydrogen bonding come into play. This paper studies free surface energy (surface and interfacial tension). It has been found that free surface energy is directly proportional to the square of the magnitude of the interaction vector. The proportionality constant, τ, is expressed in length units, has a value of 0.025 nm, and does not depend on the chemical nature of the substance or state of matter (solid, liquid or gas). The constant value τ appears universal and aligns with the thickness of interfaces, thereby supporting Guggenheim’s hypothesis. This hypothesis asserts that interfaces possess actual thickness and are not merely mathematical surfaces, as originally postulated by Gibbs. Moreover, it also has been found that the interface thickness, τ, is approximately equal to half of the Bohr radius, a0, which is defined by universal constants. Because the solubility parameters of thousands of substances are known and can be easily determined from their molecular structure, a good approximation of the surface and interfacial tension of any given substance can now be calculated. It has also been found that the contact angles of sessile droplets in three-phased systems can be calculated from the interaction vectors of the implicated substances.
A Reconfigurable Single-/Dual-Bandstop Filter with Controllable Equal-Ripple Performance
Authors: Gu Yuhang , Xue Shanshan , Sun Wenzhong , Xie Taiyang , Wang Xiaolong , Chen Chun-Ping
Published: July 2024

Bandstop filters (BSFs) have many applications in suppressing interference signals and shielding specific bands. Among them, reconfigurable BSFs that cover more frequency bands by switching modes have great research value. In this paper, a novel synthesis approach for compact reconfigurable BSFs with controllable equal-ripple performance is proposed. By switching the ON/OFF state of the positive intrinsic negative (PIN) diode, the proposed reconfigurable BSF can be switched between single-BSF (S-BSF) and dual-BSF (D-BSF). Based on the synthesis approach, the equal-ripple levels of stopband and passband for S-BSF and D-BSF can be independently controlled. To verify, the equal-ripple levels of stopband and passband for S-BSF state and D-BSF state are independently controlled in four groups of examples. Finally, a reconfigurable BSF with a miniaturized size is designed and fabricated. The fabricated reconfigurable BSF behaves with 15 dB and 10 dB return loss (RL) in two different passbands of the D-BSF state, and 25 dB bandpass RL and controllable stopband rejection (SR) for the S-BSF state. The measured results are in good agreement with the electromagnetic (EM) simulation results.
RisingTides: An Analytic Modeling Code of Tidal Effects in Binary Neutron Star Mergers
Authors: O’Dell Alexander , Hamilton Maria C. Babiuc
Published: July 2024

Gravitational waves produced by binary neutron star mergers offer a unique window into matter behavior under extreme conditions. In this context, we analytically model the effect of matter on gravitational waves from binary neutron star mergers. We start with a binary black hole system, leveraging the post-Newtonian formalism for the inspiral and the Backwards-one-Body model for the merger. We combine the two methods to generate a baseline waveform and we validate our results against numerical relativity simulations. Next, we integrate tidal effects in phase and amplitude to account for matter and spacetime interaction using the NRTidal model and test its accuracy against numerical relativity predictions for two equations of state, finding a mismatch around the merger. Subsequently, we lift the restriction on the coefficients to be independent of the tidal deformability and recalibrate them using the numerical relativity predictions. We obtain better fits for phase and amplitude around the merger and are able to extend the phase modeling beyond the merger. We implement our method in new open-source, user-friendly Python code, steered by a Jupyter Notebook, named RisingTides. Our research offers new perspectives on analytically modeling the effect of tides on the gravitational waves from binary neutron star mergers.
Comparative Analysis: Fractional PID vs. PID Controllers for Robotic Arm Using Genetic Algorithm Optimization
Authors: Eltayeb Ahmed , Ahmed Gamil , Imran Imil Hamda , Alyazidi Nezar M. , Abubaker Ahmed
Published: July 2024

This paper presents a comparative analysis of a fractional-order proportional–integral–derivative (FO-PID) controller against the standard proportional–integral–derivative (PID) controller, applied to a nonlinear robotic arm manipulator systems. The genetic algorithm (GA) optimization method was implemented to tune the gain parameters of the FO-PID and PID controllers. The performance of the FO-PID and PID controllers were evaluated though different cost functions, including integral of squared error (ISE), integral of absolute error (IAE), integral of time-weighted absolute error (ITAE), and integral of time-weighted squared error (ITSE). The performance of these controllers was examined via extensive simulations by using MATLAB/SIMULINK for different operating scenarios of the robotic arm manipulator system. Based on the obtained results, a comparative performance matrix is proposed, wherein cost functions ISE, IAE, ITAE, and ITSE are represented as columns while characteristic parameters (overshoot, rising time, and settling time) are represented as rows. The proposed performance matrix facilitates the selection between the PID and FO-PID controllers.
Active Methods for the Equalization of a Serially Connected Lithium-Ion Battery Pack: A Review
Authors: Yuan Longsheng , Ji Tuo , Zhang Lijun
Published: July 2024

Traditional fuel vehicles are currently still the main means of transportation when people travel. It brings convenience to their travels, but it also causes energy shortages and environmental pollution. With the development of science and technology and the popularization of green environmental protection, electric vehicles have gradually entered people’s lives, greatly alleviating these problems. As a power supply device for electric vehicles, the performance of batteries directly affects various indicators of vehicles. Due to their long lifespan and high energy density, lithium-ion batteries are now the preferred source of power for electric vehicles. However, due to various factors in the manufacturing and operation of lithium-ion batteries, there are often differences among individual cells. The power balance and performance of a battery pack are closely related. Thus, battery equalization is an important standard for a battery management system to work normally, and it is also one of the various battery management application problems. This paper reviews battery equalization systems and various active equalization circuits and summarizes the working principle and research progress of each active equalization circuit. Then, various active equalization circuits are analyzed and compared, and dynamic equalization for a second-life battery is introduced to enrich this review of equalization technology. Finally, the above contents are summarized and prospected. In order to obtain the best outcomes, different equalization circuits need to be chosen for various situations.
Prolonged Cold Exposure Negatively Impacts Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar) Liver Metabolism and Function
Authors: Rojas Isis , Caballero-Solares Albert , Vadboncoeur Émile , Sandrelli Rebeccah M. , Hall Jennifer R. , Clow Kathy A. , Parrish Christopher C. , Rise Matthew L. , Swanson Andrew K. , Gamperl Anthony K.
Published: July 2024

Large-scale mortality events have occurred during the winter in Atlantic salmon sea cages in Eastern Canada and Iceland. Thus, in salmon held at 3 °C that were apparently healthy (i.e., asymptomatic) and that had ‘early’ and ‘advanced’ symptoms of ‘winter syndrome’/’winter disease’ (WS/WD), we measured hepatic lipid classes and fatty acid levels, and the transcript expression of 34 molecular markers of fatty liver disease (FLD; a clinical sign of WS/WD). In addition, we correlated our results with previously reported characteristics associated with this disease’s progression in these same individuals. Total lipid and triacylglycerol (TAG) levels increased by ~50%, and the expression of 32 of the 34 genes was dysregulated, in fish with symptoms of FLD. TAG was positively correlated with markers of inflammation (5loxa, saa5), hepatosomatic index (HSI), and plasma aspartate aminotransferase levels, but negatively correlated with genes related to lipid metabolism (elovl5b, fabp3a, cd36c), oxidative stress (catc), and growth (igf1). Multivariate analyses clearly showed that the three groups of fish were different, and that saa5 was the largest contributor to differences. Our results provide a number of biomarkers for FLD in salmon, and very strong evidence that prolonged cold exposure can trigger FLD in this ecologically and economically important species.
Alginate-Based Electrospun Nanofibers and the Enabled Drug Controlled Release Profiles: A Review
Authors: Zhang Zhiyuan , Liu Hui , Yu Deng-Guang , Bligh Sim-Wan Annie
Published: July 2024

Alginate is a natural polymer with good biocompatible properties and is a potential polymeric material for the sustainable development and replacement of petroleum derivatives. However, the non-spinnability of pure alginate solutions has hindered the expansion of alginate applications. With the continuous development of electrospinning technology, synthetic polymers, such as PEO and PVA, are used as co-spinning agents to increase the spinnability of alginate. Moreover, the coaxial, parallel Janus, tertiary and other diverse and novel electrospun fiber structures prepared by multi-fluid electrospinning have found a new breakthrough for the problem of poor spinning of natural polymers. Meanwhile, the diverse electrospun fiber structures effectively achieve multiple release modes of drugs. The powerful combination of alginate and electrostatic spinning is widely used in many biomedical fields, such as tissue engineering, regenerative engineering, bioscaffolds, and drug delivery, and the research fever continues to climb. This is particularly true for the controlled delivery aspect of drugs. This review provides a brief overview of alginate, introduces new advances in electrostatic spinning, and highlights the research progress of alginate-based electrospun nanofibers in achieving various controlled release modes, such as pulsed release, sustained release, biphasic release, responsive release, and targeted release.
Effects of Process Variables on Physico-Mechanical Properties of Abura (Mitrogyna ciliata) Sawdust Briquettes
Authors: Orisaleye Joseph Ifeolu , Jekayinfa Simeon Olatayo , Ogundare Adebayo Adeyemi , Shittu Mojirade Rashidat , Akinola Oluwatomiwa Olalekan , Odesanya Kazeem Olabisi
Published: July 2024

Efficient utilization of biomass requires conversion into forms that can be optimally applied in energy generation. Briquetting involves the compaction of biomass into solid blocks that are more efficient than raw biomass, and provides ease of transport and handling. These are improved when the briquettes possess a high density, shatter index, and compressive strength. Due to differences in nature and composition, it is imperative to define optimum conditions for the production of quality and durable briquettes for individual biomasses that are compacted into briquettes. This study investigated the effects of process variables on the strength, durability, and density of biomass briquettes produced using Abura sawdust. The lateral compressive strength and drop shatter index were investigated whilst varying the temperature (100–150 °C), pressure (9–15 MPa), and hold time (15–30 min). The compressive strength ranged between 2.06 and 5.15 MPa, whilst the shatter index was between 50 and 600. Briquette density was between 518.8 and 822.9 kg/m3. The pressure was significant to the determination of the compressive strength (p < 0.1) and the shatter index (p < 0.05). The pressure, temperature, and hold time are significant to the briquette density. Physical and mechanical characteristics of the binderless Abura sawdust briquettes can be improved by optimizing the densification variables during the briquetting process when moderate pressures are used for compaction.
Optimization of the Factors Affecting Biogas Production Using the Taguchi Design of Experiment Method
Authors: Sidi Habib Sidahmed , Torii Shuichi , S. Kavitha Mol , Charivuparampil Achuthan Nair Ajimon
Published: July 2024

The present study analyzed the effect of temperature, pH, pre-treatment and mixing ratio on the anaerobic digestion process. The parameters during the anaerobic co-digestion of cow manure and food waste were then optimized using the Taguchi experimental design method. ANOVA was carried out to find the significant parameters which influence biogas production. Experimental tests were carried out at laboratory-scale reactors kept at different temperatures (28 °C, 35 °C, and 50 °C). The specific methanogenic performance (SMP) during anaerobic digestion at higher temperatures was characterized with the analysis of acetate, propionate, butyrate, hydrogen, glucose, and formate, and was validated with the literature. The improvement of biogas production with different pre-treatments, i.e., ultrasonic, autoclave, and microwave techniques, was also analyzed. The results showed that the reactor that was maintained at 35 °C showed the highest biogas production, while the reactor that was maintained at a lower temperature (28 °C) produced the lower volume of biogas. As the retention time increases, the amount of biogas production increases. Methanogenic activities of microorganisms were reduced at higher temperature conditions (65 °C). Biogas production increased by 28.1%, 20.23%, and 13.27% when the substrates were treated with ultrasonic, autoclave, and microwave, respectively, compared to the untreated substrate. The optimized condition for the highest biogas production during anaerobic co-digestion of food waste and cow manure is a temperature of 35 °C, a pH of 7 and a mixing ratio (CM:FW = 1.5:0.5). ANOVA showed that temperature is the most important input parameter affecting biogas production, followed by mixing ratio.
Physiological, Perceptual, and Biomechanical Responses to Load Carriage While Walking at Military-Relevant Speeds and Loads—Are There Differences between Males and Females?
Authors: Vickery-Howe Danielle M. , Dascombe Ben J. , Drain Jace R. , Clarke Anthea C. , Hoolihan Brooke , Carstairs Greg L. , Reddy Anjana J. , Middleton Kane J.
Published: July 2024

This study aimed to investigate the physiological, perceptual, and biomechanical differences between male and female soldiers across several military-relevant load and walking speed combinations. Eleven female and twelve male soldiers completed twelve 12 min walking trials at varying speeds (3.5 km·h−1, 5.5 km·h−1, 6.5 km·h−1) and with varying external loads (7.2 kg, 23.2 kg, 35.2 kg). Physiological (indirect calorimetry, heart rate), perceptual (perceived exertion), and biomechanical (spatiotemporal, kinematic, kinetic) outcomes were measured throughout each trial. Females had a lower aerobic capacity and lower body strength than males, which resulted in them working at a greater exercise intensity (%VO2peak and heart rate) but with a lower oxygen pulse. Females demonstrated higher breathing frequency and perceived exertion with specific loads. At selected loads and speeds, frontal and sagittal pelvis, hip, and knee motions and forces were greater for females. Females consistently displayed greater relative stride length and step width. In conclusion, this study demonstrates the importance of tailored interventions, periodisation, and nutritional strategies for female military personnel, given their higher relative work rate and increased injury risk during load carriage tasks. Understanding these differences is crucial for preparing female soldiers for the physical demands of military service.
A Method of Integrating Air Conditioning Usage Models to Building Simulations for Predicting Residential Cooling Energy Consumption
Authors: Ao Jingyun , Du Chenqiu , Jing Mingyi , Li Baizhan , Chen Zhaoyang
Published: July 2024

Great deviations in building energy consumption simulation are attributed to the simplified settings of occupants’ air conditioning (AC) usage schedules. This study was designed to develop a method to quantify the uncertainty and randomness of AC usage behavior and incorporate the model into simulations, in order to improve the prediction performance of AC energy consumption. Based on long-term onsite monitoring of household thermal environments and AC usage patterns, two stochastic models were built using unsupervised cluster and statistical methods. Based on the Monte Carlo method, the AC operation schedule was generated through AC opening duration, setpoints, and other relevant parameters, and was further incorporated into EnergyPlus. The results show that the ideally deterministic AC operation settings from the standard significantly overestimate the cooling energy consumption, where the value based on the fixed mode was 6.35 times higher. The distribution of daily AC energy consumption based on the stochastic modeling was highly consistent with the actual situation, thanks to the accurate prediction of the randomness and dynamics of residents’ AC usage patterns. The total cooling energy consumption based on two stochastic models was found to be much closer to the actual values. The work proposes a method of embedding stochastic AC usage models to EnergyPlus 22.1 benefits for an improvement in building energy consumption simulation and the energy efficiency evaluation regarding occupant behavior in the future.
Study on the Effect of Water–Binder Ratio on the Carbonation Resistance of Raw Sea Sand Alkali-Activated Slag Concrete and the Distribution of Chloride Ions after Carbonation
Authors: Wu Yan , Kang Sixiang , Zhang Feng , Huang Haisheng , Liu Haojie , Zhang Jianbin , Li Hongze , Li Weihong , Zheng Zhou , Wu Wenda
Published: July 2024

The excessive extraction of river sand has led to significant ecological issues. Moreover, the environmental impact and resource demand of cement production have increasingly turned the spotlight on sea sand as a viable alternative due to its abundance and ease of extraction. Concurrently, alkali-activated binders, a novel type of low-carbon cementitious material, have gained attention for their low energy consumption, high durability, and effective chloride ion fixation capabilities. However, they are susceptible to carbonation. Introducing a controlled sea sand amount can raise the materials’ carbonation resistance, although carbonation may raise the concentration of free Cl− within the structure to levels that could risk the integrity of steel reinforcements by accelerating corrosion. In this context, the current study investigates sea sand alkali-activated slag (SSAS) concrete prepared with varying water–binder (W/B) ratios to evaluate its impact on flowability, mechanical strength, performances, and chloride ion distribution post-carbonation. The results demonstrate that the mechanical property of SSAS concrete diminishes as the water-to-binder ratio increases, with a more pronounced reduction observed. The depth of carbonation in mortar specimens also rises with the W/B ratio, whereas the compressive strength post-carbonation initially decreases before showing an increase as carbonation progresses. Furthermore, carbonation redistributes chloride ions in SSAS, leading to a peak Cl− concentration near the carbonation front. However, this peak amplitude does not show a clear correlation with changes in the W/B ratio. This study provides a theoretical foundation for employing sea sand and alkali-activated concrete.
An Investigation into the Variables Influencing the Structural Bamboo Architecture Using Filled Concrete and Cement Mortar
Authors: Huang Jun , Liu Xiaojuan , Long Yueling , Li Wentao , Wu Ruoyue
Published: July 2024

Bamboo, as a green building material, plays a vital role in construction. Bamboo has good properties and appearance, making it highly attractive for building structures and designs. Since the compressive capacity of bamboo is considerably lower than its tensile capacity, with the ratio typically ranging between 300% to 900%, this limits its application dimensions in construction. Therefore, filling the original bamboo structural members with specific materials or applying different connection methods can not only maintain the appearance of the bamboo structure but also improve its compressive capacity and overall durability, thus expanding the application range of bamboo structural members and enhancing the performance of the architectural design process. Two hollow bamboo specimens were among the eight BFC specimens tested for this paper. Key components such as transverse stiffeners, steel bars, filler materials, and bamboo nodes were examined for their influence on the specimens’ ductility, peak strain, ultimate bearing capacity, and failure mechanisms. The test results showed that the ratio of the ultimate bearing capacity of BFC specimens to hollow bamboo samples could reach up to 538%, while the peak strain differences were minimal. A non-linear finite element model was developed and its accuracy confirmed based on the test results. This work proposes a new approach to determine the final axial compressive capacity of BFC columns by creating an elastic model of transversely isotropic cylinders. As a result, the primary goal of this study is to establish a foundation for more scientific building design techniques and procedures by examining the axial compression mechanics of structural bamboo filled with cement and concrete (BFC) and how it influences building design.
Systemic Treatment of Recurrent Hepatocellular Carcinoma after Liver Transplantation: A Multicenter Trial
Authors: Himmelsbach Vera , Jeschke Matthias , Lange Christian M. , Scheiner Bernhard , Pinter Matthias , Sinner Friedrich , Venerito Marino , Queck Alexander , Trojan Jörg , Waidmann Oliver , Finkelmeier Fabian
Published: July 2024

Introduction: The tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) sorafenib and lenvatinib represent the first-line systemic therapy of choice for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) recurrence after liver transplantation (LT). Under sorafenib and lenvatinib, HCC patients have shown increasingly improved overall survival in clinical studies over the years. In contrast, data on overall survival for patients with HCC recurrence after LT under TKIs are scarce and limited to small retrospective series. In this retrospective, multicenter study, we investigated the efficacy of TKI therapy and the influence of immunosuppression in patients with HCC recurrence after LT. Methods: Retrospective data were collected from four transplant centers from Germany and Austria. We included patients with HCC recurrence after LT between 2007 and 2020 who were treated with a TKI. Results: In total, we analyzed data from 46 patients with HCC recurrence after LT. The most common underlying liver disease was hepatitis C, accounting for 52.2%. The median time to relapse was 11.8 months (range 0–117.7 months). The liver graft was affected in 21 patients (45.7%), and 36 patients (78.3%) had extrahepatic metastases at initial diagnosis of recurrence, with the lung being the most commonly affected (n = 25, 54.3%). Of the total, 54.3% (n = 25) of the patients were initially treated locally; 39 (85.8%) and 7 (15.2%) patients received sorafenib and lenvatinib, respectively, as first-line systemic therapy. Median overall survival of the whole cohort was 10.9 months (95% confidence interval (95% CI) 6.9–14.9 months) and median progression free survival was 5.7 months (95% CI 2.0–9.4 months) from treatment initiation. Conclusion: Since history of liver transplantation is considered a contraindication for immunotherapy, prognosis of patients with HCC recurrence after LT remains poor.
TMEM176B Promotes EMT via FGFR/JNK Signalling in Development and Tumourigenesis of Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Sun Ping-Hui , Xia Siyu , Yuan Runzhu , Zhang Bin , Wang Guangsuo
Published: July 2024

Lung cancer, the leading cause of cancer-related incidence and mortality worldwide, is characterised by high invasiveness and poor prognosis. Novel therapeutic targets are required, especially for patients with inoperable metastatic disease requiring systemic therapies to improve patients’ welfare. Recently, studies indicated that TMEM176B is a positive regulator in breast and gastric cancers, and it could be a potential target for treatment. In this study, we used single-cell sequencing, proteomics, Co-IP, and in vivo and in vitro experimental models to investigate the role of TMEM176B in lung adenocarcinoma development. Our study indicated that TMEM176B expression was enhanced in lung adenocarcinoma tissues, and it was associated with shorter overall survival (OS). TMEM176B promoted cellular functions, including cell proliferation, invasion, migration and adhesion in vitro and tumour growth in vivo. Moreover, the tube formation ability of endothelial cells was enhanced by treating with the tumour cell-conditioned medium. We have also demonstrated that TMEM176B regulated EMT via the FGFR1/JNK/Vimentin/Snail signalling cascade. Overall, our study suggests TMEM176B could be a potential therapeutic target in lung adenocarcinoma.
Integrating Omics Data and AI for Cancer Diagnosis and Prognosis
Authors: Ozaki Yousaku , Broughton Phil , Abdollahi Hamed , Valafar Homayoun , Blenda Anna V.
Published: July 2024

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death, making timely diagnosis and prognosis very important. Utilization of AI (artificial intelligence) enables providers to organize and process patient data in a way that can lead to better overall outcomes. This review paper aims to look at the varying uses of AI for diagnosis and prognosis and clinical utility. PubMed and EBSCO databases were utilized for finding publications from 1 January 2020 to 22 December 2023. Articles were collected using key search terms such as “artificial intelligence” and “machine learning.” Included in the collection were studies of the application of AI in determining cancer diagnosis and prognosis using multi-omics data, radiomics, pathomics, and clinical and laboratory data. The resulting 89 studies were categorized into eight sections based on the type of data utilized and then further subdivided into two subsections focusing on cancer diagnosis and prognosis, respectively. Eight studies integrated more than one form of omics, namely genomics, transcriptomics, epigenomics, and proteomics. Incorporating AI into cancer diagnosis and prognosis alongside omics and clinical data represents a significant advancement. Given the considerable potential of AI in this domain, ongoing prospective studies are essential to enhance algorithm interpretability and to ensure safe clinical integration.
Development of Electrochemical and Colorimetric Biosensors for Detection of Dopamine
Authors: Khan Rimsha , Anjum Saima , Fatima Nishat , Farooq Nosheen , Shaheen Aqeela , Fernandez Garcia Javier , Khan Muhammad Imran , Shanableh Abdallah
Published: July 2024

Neurotransmitters are essential chemical messengers required for proper brain function, and any changes in their concentrations can lead to neuronal diseases. Therefore, sensitive and selective detection is crucial. This study presents a fast and simple colorimetric method for dopamine detection using three reagent solutions: AgNP and MPA, Ag/Au nanocomposite, and mercaptophenylacetic acid. TEM images showed a narrow distribution of Ag and Au nanoparticles with average sizes of 20 nm and 13 nm, respectively, with gold nanoparticles bound to the edges of silver nanoparticles. A paper-based biosensor was created using manual wax printing for the colorimetric detection of dopamine. Visual detection onsite showed color changes with both the silver nanoparticles and mercaptophenylacetic acid mixture and the silver–gold nanoparticle composite. Electrochemical detection using a glassy carbon electrode modified with 8 mM mercaptophenylacetic acid demonstrated high selectivity and sensitivity towards dopamine, with a peak in the range of 0.7–0.9 V. Interferences were minimized, ensuring high sensitivity and selective detection of dopamine.
Two Physiotherapy Methods to Improve the Physical Condition of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Draudvilienė Lina , Draudvila Justas , Stankevičiūtė Simona , Daniusevičiūtė-Brazaitė Laura
Published: July 2024

This study presents two simple physiotherapy programs that were implemented for five weeks and showed positive changes in balance, coordination, and motor skills in kindergarteners with ASD. Physiotherapy programs in a gym and games on a smart board with balance plates and an unstable base were applied to improve the physical condition of children with ASD. Thirty children with ASD (4–6 years old) attending special needs kindergarten were enrolled in the study. Three tests were used to assess participants’ physical condition before and after the study: the modified Berg Balance Scale, the Imbalance Coordination Sample, and the Bruininks–Oseretsky Motor Proficiency Test (BOTMP). The resulting mean change, calculated from each group’s scores, shows that the participants who received physical therapy sessions at the smart board had the greatest change of 1.58 points. It shows that the opportunity to play games on a smart board motivates children with ASD to work harder; therefore, it is a simple and easy way to engage children in different types of physical exercise. A slightly smaller change of 1.51 was obtained in the group that received gym sessions. However, working in the gym was more psychologically challenging for the children with ASD due to their lack of desire and motivation. Both methods are relatively simple and easy to apply at home; therefore, parents can make a significant contribution to improving children’s physical condition and that can be an effective tool to assist these individuals with activities in daily life.
Power Consumption Efficiency of Encryption Schemes for RFID
Authors: Gazziro Mario , Carmo João Paulo
Published: July 2024

This paper provides a comparative analysis of AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) and Salsa20 algorithm implementations, focusing on power consumption efficiency in passive RFID (radio-frequency identification) tags and ultra-low-power devices. The main objective of this work is to determine which of these algorithms is more suitable to operate in these types of devices. For this purpose, ASIC (application-specific integrated circuit) implementations of AES and Salsa20 based on low-power approaches were developed and their power consumption was evaluated. The results demonstrate that Salsa20 power consumption is lower than AES (about 17%), indicating that Salsa20 is a much better choice than AES for passive RFID tags.
Potential New Inflammatory Markers in Bronchiectasis: A Literature Review
Authors: Bertuccio Francesco Rocco , Baio Nicola , Montini Simone , Ferroni Valentina , Chino Vittorio , Pisanu Lucrezia , Russo Marianna , Giana Ilaria , Cascina Alessandro , Conio Valentina , Grosso Amelia , Gini Erica , Albicini Federica , Corsico Angelo Guido , Stella Giulia Maria
Published: July 2024

Specific molecular and inflammatory endotypes have been identified for chronic respiratory disorders, including asthma and COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). These endotypes correspond with clinical aspects of disease, enabling targeted medicines to address certain pathophysiologic pathways, often referred to as “precision medicine”. With respect to bronchiectasis, many comorbidities and underlying causes have been identified. Inflammatory endotypes have also been widely studied and reported. Additionally, several genes have been shown to affect disease progression. However, the lack of a clear classification has also hampered our understanding of the disease’s natural course. The aim of this review is, thus, to summarize the current knowledge on biomarkers and actionable targets of this complex pathologic condition and to point out unmet needs, which are required in the design of effective diagnostic and therapeutic trials.
A Comprehensive View on the Impact of Chlorogenic Acids on Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Neamțu Andreea-Adriana , Maghiar Teodor Andrei , Turcuș Violeta , Maghiar Paula Bianca , Căpraru Anca-Maria , Lazar Bianca-Andreea , Dehelean Cristina-Adriana , Pop Ovidiu Laurean , Neamțu Carmen , Totolici Bogdan Dan , Mathe Endre
Published: July 2024

Chlorogenic acids are plant secondary metabolites, chemically—polyphenols with similar biological activity, formed through the esterification of quinic acid and hydrocinnamic acid moieties. They are best known for their high concentration in coffee and other dietary sources and the antioxidant properties that they exhibit. Both chlorogenic acids and plant extracts containing significant amounts of the compounds show promising in vitro activity against colorectal cancer. With coffee being the most popular drink in the world, and colorectal cancer at an unfortunate peak in incidence and mortality, the mechanisms through which the anti-tumorigenic effect of chlorogenic acids could be functionalized for CRC prevention seem appealing to study. Therefore, this review aims to enable a better understanding of the modes of action of chlorogenic acids in combating carcinogenesis, with a focus on cell cycle arrest, the induction of apoptosis, and the modulation of Wnt, Pi3K/Akt, and MAPK signal transduction pathways, alongside the reduction in the number of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines and the counterintuitive beneficial elevation of oxidative stress.
The Promising Effect of Ascorbic Acid and Paracetamol as Anti-Biofilm and Anti-Virulence Agents against Resistant Escherichia coli
Authors: Eltabey Sara M. , Ibrahim Ali H. , Zaky Mahmoud M. , Ibrahim Adel Ehab , Alrashdi Yahya Bin Abdullah , El Deeb Sami , Saleh Moustafa M.
Published: July 2024

Escherichia coli is a major cause of serious infections, with antibiotic resistance rendering many treatments ineffective. Hence, novel strategies to combat this pathogen are needed. Anti-virulence therapy is a promising new approach for the subsequent era. Recent research has examined the impact of sub-inhibitory doses of ascorbic acid and paracetamol on Escherichia coli virulence factors. This study evaluated biofilm formation, protease production, motility behavior, serum resistance, expression of virulence-regulating genes (using RT-PCR), and survival rates in a mouse model. Ascorbic acid significantly reduced biofilm formation, protease production, motility, and serum resistance from 100% in untreated isolates to 22–89%, 10–89%, 2–57%, and 31–35% in treated isolates, respectively. Paracetamol also reduced these factors from 100% in untreated isolates to 16–76%, 1–43%, 16–38%, and 31–35%, respectively. Both drugs significantly down-regulated virulence-regulating genes papC, fimH, ompT_m, stcE, fliC, and kpsMTII. Mice treated with these drugs had a 100% survival rate compared with 60% in the positive control group control inoculated with untreated bacteria. This study highlights the potential of ascorbic acid and paracetamol as anti-virulence agents, suggesting their use as adjunct therapies alongside conventional antimicrobials or as alternative treatments for resistant Escherichia coli infections.
Muscarinic Receptors and Alzheimer’s Disease: New Perspectives and Mechanisms
Authors: Monaco Martina , Trebesova Hanna , Grilli Massimo
Published: July 2024

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is one of the most prevalent neurodegenerative diseases on a global scale. Historically, this pathology has been linked to cholinergic transmission, and despite the scarcity of effective therapies, numerous alternative processes and targets have been proposed as potential avenues for comprehending this complex illness. Nevertheless, the fundamental pathophysiological mechanisms underpinning AD remain largely enigmatic, with a growing body of evidence advocating for the significance of muscarinic receptors in modulating the brain’s capacity to adapt and generate new memories. This review summarizes the current state of the art in the field of muscarinic receptors’ involvement in AD. A specific key factor was the relationship between comorbidity and the emergence of new mechanisms.
Knowledge and Beliefs about Clinical Trials among Adults in Poland: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Cięszczyk Natalia , Czech Marcin , Pronicki Łukasz , Gujski Mariusz
Published: July 2024

Clinical trials, by contributing to the development of diagnostics and to the search for modern, more effective, and safer therapies, have become one of the most important elements of the healthcare system. They enable the introduction of innovative drugs and treatments that can significantly improve patients’ quality of life. Not only does this research help to understand disease mechanisms, but it also enables the personalization of therapy, which often increases the effectiveness of treatment. Public awareness of clinical trials helps build trust in science and medicine, which is fundamental to the effective functioning of the healthcare system. The aim of this study was to assess Poles’ knowledge and beliefs about clinical trials. Methods: The survey was conducted among Poles aged 18 and over with the help of an external company, Ariadna, which is an independent research panel. The questionnaire contained 22 questions, of which 13 questions concerned beliefs and attitudes towards clinical trials. Results: One thousand and seventy-nine participants took part in the study (n = 1079). The mean age of respondents was 44.96 years (SD = 16.30). Slightly more women (n = 568, 52.6%) than men (n = 511, 47.4%) took part in the study. Among the respondents, 86.5% (n = 933) were aware of clinical trials. The main sources of information about clinical trials were the media (53.8%) including the Internet (n = 355, 32.9%), TV (n = 175, 16.2%), press (n = 30, 2.8%), and radio (n = 21, 1.9%). 43.2% (n = 466) of respondents reported little knowledge of clinical trials, while more than three quarters (n = 805, 75.2%) said they would like to learn more about clinical trials. Most respondents (n = 879, 81.4%) agreed with the statement that participation in a clinical trial is completely voluntary, and more than half (n = 580, 53.7%) agreed with the statement that hospitals participating in clinical trials provide better healthcare. The statement that the results of clinical trials are made available to the public was disagreed with by 37.2% (n = 402) of participants. Only 30.3% (n = 327) of participants agreed that clinical trials should be conducted with children. Most respondents (n = 638, 59.1%) agreed with the statement that a patient in a clinical trial is insured. 48.3% (n = 521) of participants are aware that a clinical trial can be withdrawn from at any time. Conclusions: Poles rate their knowledge of clinical trials as low and would like to learn more. Poles’ knowledge of clinical trials is mainly based on commercial sources.
Shifting Paradigms in TNBC Treatment: Emerging Alternatives to Capecitabine in the Post-Neoadjuvant Setting
Authors: Abahssain Halima , Souadka Amine , Alem Rania , Santoni Matteo , Battelli Nicola , Amela Eric , Lemaire Antoine , Rodriguez Joseph , Errihani Hassan
Published: July 2024

Background: Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) remains a clinically challenging subtype due to its aggressive nature and limited treatment options post-neoadjuvant failure. Historically, capecitabine has been the cornerstone of adjuvant therapy for TNBC patients not achieving a pathological complete response (pCR). However, the integration of new modalities such as immunotherapy and PARP inhibitors has prompted a re-evaluation of traditional post-neoadjuvant approaches. Methods: This review synthesizes data from pivotal clinical trials and meta-analyses to evaluate the efficacy of emerging therapies in the post-neoadjuvant setting. We focus on the role of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), PARP inhibitors (PARPis), and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) alongside or in place of capecitabine in TNBC treatment paradigms. Results: The addition of ICIs like pembrolizumab to neoadjuvant regimens has shown increased pCR rates and improved event-free survival, posing new questions about optimal post-neoadjuvant therapies. Similarly, PARPis have demonstrated efficacy in BRCA-mutated TNBC populations, with significant improvements in disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS). Emerging studies on ADCs further complicate the adjuvant landscape, offering potentially efficacious alternatives to capecitabine, especially in patients with residual disease after neoadjuvant therapy. Discussion: The challenge remains to integrate these new treatments into clinical practice effectively, considering factors such as drug resistance, patient-specific characteristics, and socio-economic barriers. This review discusses the implications of these therapies and suggests a future direction focused on personalized medicine approaches in TNBC. Conclusions: As the treatment landscape for TNBC evolves, the role of capecitabine is being critically examined. While it remains a viable option for certain patient groups, the introduction of ICIs, PARPis, and ADCs offers promising alternatives that could redefine adjuvant therapy standards. Ongoing and future trials will be pivotal in determining the optimal therapeutic strategies for TNBC patients with residual disease post-neoadjuvant therapy.
Disparities in Outcomes following Resection of Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer
Authors: Luo William Y. , Varvoglis Dimitrios N. , Agala Chris B. , Comer Lydia H. , Shetty Pragna , Wood Trevor , Kapadia Muneera R. , Stem Jonathan M. , Guillem José G.
Published: July 2024

Surgical margins following rectal cancer resection impact oncologic outcomes. We examined the relationship between margin status and race, ethnicity, region of care, and facility type. Patients undergoing resection of a stage II–III locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) between 2004 and 2018 were identified through the National Cancer Database. Inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) was performed, with margin positivity rate as the outcome of interest, and race/ethnicity and region of care as the predictors of interest. In total, 58,389 patients were included. After IPTW adjustment, non-Hispanic Black (NHB) patients were 12% (p = 0.029) more likely to have margin positivity than non-Hispanic White (NHW) patients. Patients in the northeast were 9% less likely to have margin positivity compared to those in the south. In the west, NHB patients were more likely to have positive margins than NHW patients. Care in academic/research centers was associated with lower likelihood of positive margins compared to community centers. Within academic/research centers, NHB patients were more likely to have positive margins than non-Hispanic Other patients. Our results suggest that disparity in surgical management of LARC in NHB patients exists across regions of the country and facility types. Further research aimed at identifying drivers of this disparity is warranted.
Colon Cancer Disease Diagnosis Based on Convolutional Neural Network and Fishier Mantis Optimizer
Authors: Mohamed Amna Ali A. , Hançerlioğullari Aybaba , Rahebi Javad , Rezaeizadeh Rezvan , Lopez-Guede Jose Manuel
Published: July 2024

Colon cancer is a prevalent and potentially fatal disease that demands early and accurate diagnosis for effective treatment. Traditional diagnostic approaches for colon cancer often face limitations in accuracy and efficiency, leading to challenges in early detection and treatment. In response to these challenges, this paper introduces an innovative method that leverages artificial intelligence, specifically convolutional neural network (CNN) and Fishier Mantis Optimizer, for the automated detection of colon cancer. The utilization of deep learning techniques, specifically CNN, enables the extraction of intricate features from medical imaging data, providing a robust and efficient diagnostic model. Additionally, the Fishier Mantis Optimizer, a bio-inspired optimization algorithm inspired by the hunting behavior of the mantis shrimp, is employed to fine-tune the parameters of the CNN, enhancing its convergence speed and performance. This hybrid approach aims to address the limitations of traditional diagnostic methods by leveraging the strengths of both deep learning and nature-inspired optimization to enhance the accuracy and effectiveness of colon cancer diagnosis. The proposed method was evaluated on a comprehensive dataset comprising colon cancer images, and the results demonstrate its superiority over traditional diagnostic approaches. The CNN–Fishier Mantis Optimizer model exhibited high sensitivity, specificity, and overall accuracy in distinguishing between cancer and non-cancer colon tissues. The integration of bio-inspired optimization algorithms with deep learning techniques not only contributes to the advancement of computer-aided diagnostic tools for colon cancer but also holds promise for enhancing the early detection and diagnosis of this disease, thereby facilitating timely intervention and improved patient prognosis. Various CNN designs, such as GoogLeNet and ResNet-50, were employed to capture features associated with colon diseases. However, inaccuracies were introduced in both feature extraction and data classification due to the abundance of features. To address this issue, feature reduction techniques were implemented using Fishier Mantis Optimizer algorithms, outperforming alternative methods such as Genetic Algorithms and simulated annealing. Encouraging results were obtained in the evaluation of diverse metrics, including sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and F1-Score, which were found to be 94.87%, 96.19%, 97.65%, and 96.76%, respectively.
Challenges of Integrating Artificial Intelligence in Software Project Planning: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Mohammad Abdulghafour , Chirchir Brian
Published: July 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) has helped enhance the management of software development projects through automation, improving efficiency and enabling project professionals to focus on strategic aspects. Despite its advantages, applying AI in software development project management still faces several challenges. Thus, this study investigates key obstacles to applying artificial intelligence in project management, specifically in the project planning phase. This research systematically reviews the existing literature. The review comprises scientific articles published from 2019 to 2024 and, from the inspected records, 17 papers were analyzed in full-text form. In this review, 10 key barriers were reported and categorized based on the Technology–Organization–Environment (TOE) framework. This review showed that eleven articles reported technological challenges, twelve articles identified organizational challenges, and six articles reported environmental challenges. In addition, this review found that there was relatively little interest in the literature on environmental challenges, compared to organizational and technological barriers.