bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wind Flow Characteristics on a Vertical Farm with Potential Use of Energy Harvesting
Authors: Xie Simeng , Martinez-Vazquez Pedro , Baniotopoulos Charalampos
Published: May 2024

The response to the climate emergency requires solutions that address multiple sustainability targets, which could be conducted by merging scientific research from areas that have traditionally evolved separately. This investigation presents advances in that direction by studying a building prototype designated for vertical farming, which enables the wind energy potential across built-up areas to be explored, in this case through the implementation of micro-wind turbines on the surface of the prototype. The study includes a parametric analysis consisting of varying locations of wind turbines across the building envelope, and the width of ventilation corridors. The effects of different widths of outdoor ventilation corridors, various locations, and additional wind angles on the capacity to harvest wind resources were investigated. The results showed that the 5 m wide outdoor corridor has the best ventilation effect, and the wind turbine placed on the roof has the best wind energy potential. The efficiency of wind turbines decreases significantly when multiple devices are placed at the same height on the façades, although overall, the potential for energy harvesting seems incremental.
Structural Behaviour and Strength Evaluation of a Venetian Church through Finite-Element Analysis
Authors: Stavroulaki Maria E. , Liofagos Ioannis (Yannos) , Darmarakis Panagiotis
Published: May 2024

The evaluation of the structural behaviour of a masonry Venetian church with a pointed barrel vault is presented in this paper through an analysis following the necessary steps of a monument study. With a detailed geometric model and material estimation, the finite-element method is used to investigate the influence of specific structural parts of the structure, like masonry buttresses and wall connections, on the structural behaviour. The operational modal analysis is used to identify the structure dynamically. The comparison of the eigenfrequencies, which are estimated by in situ measurements and finite-element modal analysis, is used to perform a model identification. The response spectrum analysis, the static analysis after the subsistence of some parts following strengthening proposals, and the transient analysis of specific seismic excitations are used for the evaluation of the structural behaviour. The purpose of the work is to highlight the need for an interdisciplinary approach to the study of a monumental complex structure, regardless of its scale. The coexistence of structural elements of different stiffnesses, such as vaults, elongated walls, buttresses, transverse walls with pediment and belfry, as well as the concha, affects the mechanical behaviour and the pathology of the structure, which is difficult to study with simplifying models. From the analysis, it is concluded that subsidence problems, combined with seismic actions, lead to the cracking of the masonry, while the existence of buttresses limits the extension of the damage and contributes to the stabilization of the structure.
The Impact of Caregiver Pressure to Eat on Food Neophobia in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Xie Qingqing , Yong Cuiting , Xiang Caihong , Xi Yue , Huo Jiaqi , Liang Jiajing , Zou Hanshuang , Pan Yunfeng , Wu Minchan , Lin Qian
Published: May 2024

(1) Background: With autistic children’s high pervasiveness of eating problems and inappropriate feeding behaviors by their caregivers, this study wanted to inspect the connection between caregivers’ pressure to eat and food neophobia in these children. (2) Methods: Cross-sectional overview of 160 guardians of kids aged 2 to 7 years. After one-on-one questioning by the researcher, the collected information on the socio-demographic characteristics of the children with autism, caregiver feeding behavior, and new food neophobia (FN) scores was entered into the Questionnaire Star system. (3) Results: The mean FN score was 25.56 ± 6.46. The caregiver’s pressure to eat positively related to children’s FN (β = 0.164 95% CI, 0.078, 2.163). In these children, we found a negative correlation between FN score and the frequency of vegetable intake (p ≤ 0.001), fruit intake (p ≤ 0.05), aquatic product intake (p ≤ 0.05), and dietary diversity score (p ≤ 0.01), and positively correlated with the frequency of snack intake (p ≤ 0.05). (4) Conclusions: Caregiver pressure to eat was positively associated with high levels of FN in Chinese kids with ASD, which in turn negatively impacted dietary quality. To improve eating habits, caregivers should reconsider their feeding strategies and avoid using forceful methods to ease food neophobia in these children.
Changes in Body Weight and Risk Factors for Overweight and Obesity in 5–6-Year-Old Children Attending School in Geneva
Authors: Narvaez Luisa , Mahler Per Bo , Baratti-Mayer Denise , Jeannot Emilien
Published: May 2024

Background: The prevalence of obesity and overweight in children is increasing in industrialized countries. Monitoring the evolution of these phenomena is essential for understanding prevention and health promotion programs. This study aims to present the analysis of anthropometric data collected by school nurses from the School Health Service of Geneva (Service de santé de l’enfance et de la jeunesse) for children aged 5 to 6 years during the 2021–2022 school year, as well as describe the trends in overweight and obesity from 2003–2004 to 2021–2022. Risk factors were also assessed in the 2021–2022 sample. Methods: This study included a random sample of 958 (479 girls and 479 boys) primary school pupils aged 5 to 6 years in Geneva. Data on weight, height and socioeconomic status were collected. BMI was analyzed using the Cole standard. A multivariate analysis was conducted to assess the influence of socioeconomic factors on overweight and obesity. We compared these results with BMI trends in students of the same age since 2003. Results: In 2021–2022, overall prevalence of overweight was 12.73%, and obesity was 5.64%. Girls had higher rates of overweight (14.20%) and obesity (6.68%) compared to boys (11.27% and 4.59%, respectively) (p < 0.0001). Overweight in boys significantly increased since the 2013–2014 and 2019–2020 measurements (p = 0.003). The trend for girls was similar but not statistically significant. Obesity rates have not significantly increased since 2019–2020 in both genders, but there is a significantly increasing trend for girls since 2013–2014 p = 0.045). Socioeconomic factors, particularly the socioeconomic class of parents, played a predictive role in overweight and obesity. Conclusions: The School Health Service of Geneva and the Directorate General of Health have a crucial role in monitoring and preventing childhood obesity. The prevalence of overweight and obesity has remained high since 2010, justifying continuous efforts for prevention. A significant increase in prevalence has been observed since 2020, particularly among overweight boys, and could be related to COVID-19 confinement measures.
Dependence of Successful Airway Management in Neonatal Simulation Manikins on the Type of Supraglottic Airway Device and Providers’ Backgrounds
Authors: Sugiura Takahiro , Urushibata Rei , Fukaya Satoko , Shioda Tsutomu , Fukuoka Tetsuya , Iwata Osuke
Published: May 2024

Supraglottic airway devices such as laryngeal masks and i-gels are useful for airway management. The i-gel is a relatively new device that replaces the air-inflated cuff of the laryngeal mask with a gel-filled cuff. It remains unclear which device is more effective for neonatal resuscitation. We aimed to evaluate the dependence of successful airway management in neonatal simulators on the device type and providers’ backgrounds. Ninety-one healthcare providers performed four attempts at airway management using a laryngeal mask and i-gel in two types of neonatal manikins. The dependence of successful insertions within 16.7 s (75th percentile of all successful insertions) on the device type and providers’ specialty, years of healthcare service, and completion of the neonatal resuscitation training course was assessed. Successful insertion (p = 0.001) and insertion time (p = 0.003) were associated with using the i-gel vs. laryngeal mask. The providers’ backgrounds were not associated with the outcome. Using the i-gel was associated with more successful airway management than laryngeal masks using neonatal manikins. Considering the limited effect of the provider’s specialty and experience, using the i-gel as the first-choice device in neonatal resuscitation may be advantageous. Prospective studies are warranted to compare these devices in the clinical setting.
Adaptation of the Coparenting Relationship Scale Questionnaire to Spanish Parents with Offspring
Authors: Seijo Dolores , Fariña Francisca , Fernández María Paula , Arce Ramón
Published: May 2024

The scientific literature supports that practicing positive coparenting leads to the healthy development of children. Consequently, professional interest in parenting and coparenting has experienced significant growth, and evaluating coparenting is crucial in family psychology for establishing action protocols in clinical practice. An instrument highly regarded within the scientific community for evaluating coparenting dynamics is The Coparenting Relationship Scale (CRS). This research aims to achieve two objectives: first, to adapt the CRS for the Spanish population of both engaged and separated/divorced parents and to ascertain its reliability, validity, and factorial invariance psychometric properties; second, to assess the effectiveness of the total coparenting measure in categorizing sample participants. A cross-sectional non-experimental investigation was conducted to address these objectives. The first objective was answered by conducting an instrumental study, and the second by an exploratory study using classification techniques and a causal-comparative study using multivariate inferential methods. It was concluded that the model comprising 20 items across two factors, Positive Coparenting and Negative Perception of Coparenting, is the simplest and best fit for the Spanish parent sample; it is invariant regarding gender and marital status, and the measures derived from each factor demonstrate reliability and convergent and discriminant validity. The resulting questionnaire for Spanish parents is named CRS-SEg-S&D. The Coparental Vitality measure calculated using the total weighted measure of CRS-SEg-S&D allows the sample of participants to be divided into three differentiated clusters called Coparental Robustness, Moderate Coparenting, and Coparenting Rickets.
Home Musical Activities Boost Premature Infants’ Language Development
Authors: Franco Fabia , Chifa Maria , Politimou Nina
Published: May 2024

Infants born prematurely are considered at risk for language development delay and impairments. Using online parental reports, the present study investigated the influence of early musical experience in the home environment (Music@Home Infant Questionnaire) on language development (MacArthur–Bates Communicative Development Inventory) while controlling for general enrichment at home (Stim-Q Cognitive Home Environment Questionnaire) and perinatal post-traumatic stress disorder (Perinatal PTSD Questionnaire). Caregivers of 117 infants between 8 and 18 months of age (corrected age) without reported developmental difficulties completed an online survey. Results revealed that the musical home environment significantly predicted outcomes in reported infants’ receptive vocabulary and gestural communication, independently from infants’ corrected age and general enrichment of home activities. These findings constitute the first evidence that an enriched musical experience can enhance the development of early communication skills in a population at risk for language delays, namely infants born prematurely, opening the path for future intervention research in home and/or early childcare settings. Given that the majority of participants in this study were highly educated and from socioeconomically stable backgrounds, considerations regarding the generalizability of these results are discussed.
Dynamic Weighting Translation Transfer Learning for Imbalanced Medical Image Classification
Authors: Yu Chenglin , Pei Hailong
Published: May 2024

Medical image diagnosis using deep learning has shown significant promise in clinical medicine. However, it often encounters two major difficulties in real-world applications: (1) domain shift, which invalidates the trained model on new datasets, and (2) class imbalance problems leading to model biases towards majority classes. To address these challenges, this paper proposes a transfer learning solution, named Dynamic Weighting Translation Transfer Learning (DTTL), for imbalanced medical image classification. The approach is grounded in information and entropy theory and comprises three modules: Cross-domain Discriminability Adaptation (CDA), Dynamic Domain Translation (DDT), and Balanced Target Learning (BTL). CDA connects discriminative feature learning between source and target domains using a synthetic discriminability loss and a domain-invariant feature learning loss. The DDT unit develops a dynamic translation process for imbalanced classes between two domains, utilizing a confidence-based selection approach to select the most useful synthesized images to create a pseudo-labeled balanced target domain. Finally, the BTL unit performs supervised learning on the reassembled target set to obtain the final diagnostic model. This paper delves into maximizing the entropy of class distributions, while simultaneously minimizing the cross-entropy between the source and target domains to reduce domain discrepancies. By incorporating entropy concepts into our framework, our method not only significantly enhances medical image classification in practical settings but also innovates the application of entropy and information theory within deep learning and medical image processing realms. Extensive experiments demonstrate that DTTL achieves the best performance compared to existing state-of-the-art methods for imbalanced medical image classification tasks.
Influence of the Russia–Ukraine War and COVID-19 Pandemic on the Efficiency and Herding Behavior of Stock Markets: Evidence from G20 Nations
Authors: Ahmed Memon Bilal , Aslam Faheem , Naveed Hafiz Muhammad , Ferreira Paulo , Ganiev Omonjon
Published: May 2024

Efficiency in stock markets is essential for economic stability and growth. This study investigates the efficiency and herding behavior of the stock markets from the top economies of the world (known as G20 countries). We classify stock market indices using MSCI classification for the developed and emerging markets to provide a comparative examination using the latest data and by employing the robust multifractal detrended fluctuation (MFDFA) method. In addition to the full sample, the analysis uses sub-sample periods to reveal the hidden features and efficiencies of the G20 markets during the Russia–Ukraine War and COVID-19 for the first time. The findings show the availability of varied multifractality among all G20 stock markets during the overall and crisis periods, exhibit long-range correlations, and may support the fractal market hypothesis. In addition, Italy remains the least efficient, while Germany remains the most efficient stock market. The sub-sample results further reveal unevenness in the local fluctuations and resultant higher inefficiency considering the sheer magnitude and impact of crises on the G20 stock markets. However, the efficiency of developed stock markets performed better as compared to emerging markets. The study of G20 stock markets is useful and provides several implications for a wider audience.
Learning with Online Teaching Video Cases: Investigating Pre-Service Preschool Teachers’ Perceived Usefulness and Needs
Authors: Xu Rongrong , Bautista Alfredo , Yang Weipeng
Published: May 2024

Extensive empirical research has emphasized the benefits of integrating Online Teaching Video Cases (OTVCs) into pre-service preschool teacher education. However, there is a research gap concerning the perceptions and needs of pre-service preschool teachers regarding OTVCs. This cross-sectional study, therefore, investigated pre-service preschool teachers’ perceptions of usefulness and need pertaining to OTVCs and examined potential differences across course year levels. A self-designed questionnaire survey was completed by 744 participants from the Shandong Province (China), with a focus on five domains: actors showcased in the OTVCs, OTVC-mediated activities, learning facilitators, situations requiring OTVCs, and areas for improvement. The results revealed that the participants identified expert teacher demonstrations and collaborative learning experiences with peers and instructors as the most useful types of OTVCs. They expressed the need for OTVCs to assist them with job preparation and a desire to learn content knowledge and engage with larger communities of preschool practitioners. Interestingly, the findings revealed significant differences among participants of different year levels, with Year 3 participants finding OTVCs more useful and necessary in most domains. These findings will help preschool teacher educators improve the responsiveness of OTVC-based instruction, thereby providing online video resources tailored to the preferences and needs of pre-service preschool teachers.
What Is the Future of Augmented Reality in Science Teaching and Learning? An Exploratory Study on Primary and Pre-School Teacher Students’ Views
Authors: Peikos Giorgos , Sofianidis Angelos
Published: May 2024

While extensive research has explored the impact of Augmented Reality (AR) on student perspectives, experiences, and outcomes, there remains a significant gap in empirical studies focusing on teachers’ viewpoints, particularly within Science Education. Given that uncovering teachers’ viewpoints is crucial for leveraging AR technology’s potential in education since teachers decide whether to integrate it into their classrooms, the research question guiding this exploratory study is as follows: How do primary and pre-school teacher students perceive the integration of AR into Science teaching and learning following their engagement with pertinent university courses? Following a mixed-method approach, the data were collected via written questionnaires from 69 teacher students and focus group discussions involving 12 participants. Subsequent descriptive statistical and thematic analyses revealed that teacher students hold positive stances towards the integration of AR in Science Education. They emphasized that AR could significantly enhance motivational and cognitive outcomes for their future students while also improving accessibility and inclusion. Furthermore, their involvement in creating AR-enhanced materials not only increased course engagement and interest but also broadened their knowledge and fostered a sense of innovation, with the AR platform and application used being perceived as easy to use. Finally, challenges associated with classroom implementation were also highlighted.
Multi-Electrode EMG Spatial-Filter Implementation Based on Current Conveyors
Authors: Guerrero Federico N. , Catacora Valentín A. , Grasso Alfio Dario , Palumbo Gaetano
Published: May 2024

In this work, a circuit topology for the implementation of a multi-electrode superficial electromyography (EMG) front-end is presented based on a type II current conveyor (CCII). The presented topology provides a feasible way to implement an amplifier capable of measuring several electrode locations and obtaining the signal of interest for posterior acquisition. In particular, a five-electrode normal double differential (NDD) EMG spatial filter is demonstrated. The signal modes necessary for the analysis of the circuit are derived, the respective rejection ratios are obtained, and the noise characteristic is calculated. A board-level electrode is implemented as a proof of concept, achieving a gain equal to 28 dB, a bandwidth of 17 Hz to 578 Hz, a noise voltage linked to the input of 3.7 μVrms and a common-mode rejection ratio higher than 95 dB at interference frequencies. The topology was validated after using it as an active electrode in experimental EMG measurements with an NDD dry-contact electrode in a flexible printed circuit board.
A New Method for the Techno-Economic Analysis and the Identification of Expansion Strategies of Neutral-Temperature District Heating and Cooling Systems
Authors: Calixto Selva , Cozzini Marco , Fedrizzi Roberto , Manzolini Giampaolo
Published: May 2024

Neutral-temperature district heating and cooling (NT-DHC) is a recent concept in the district heating sector. The current literature does not directly address the ability to create comprehensive master plans for NT-DHC systems and reliably model their performance. This research presents a new approach for the evaluation and planning of NT-DHC systems. The methodology involves the use of a knapsack optimization algorithm to perform a comprehensive analysis of the conditions that make the NT-DHC solution competitive against individual heating and cooling technologies. The algorithm determines the optimal combination of potential extensions that maximizes overall economic value. The results of a case study, which was conducted in Italy, show that NT-DHC is more suitable in dense urban areas, while air-to-water heat pumps are better suited for low heat density zones. This methodology aims to reduce the risks associated with energy demand and provide more certainty about which areas a network can expand into to be competitive. It is targeted at energy planners, utilities experts, energy engineers, and district heating experts who require assistance and guidance in the planning and early stages of designing a NT-DHC system. This method might enable pre-feasibility studies and preliminary design to determine the opportunities and limitations of a system of this kind from an economic and technological perspective.
Review of Fuel-Cell Electric Vehicles
Authors: Fang Tingke , Vairin Coleman , von Jouanne Annette , Agamloh Emmanuel , Yokochi Alex
Published: May 2024

This paper presents an overview of the status and future prospects of fuel-cell electric vehicles (FC-EVs). As global concerns about emissions escalate, FC-EVs have emerged as a promising substitute for traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. This paper discusses the fundamentals of fuel-cell technology considering the major types of fuel cells that have been researched and delves into the most suitable fuel cells for FC-EV applications, including comparisons with mainstream vehicle technologies. The present state of FC-EVs, ongoing research, and the challenges and opportunities that need to be accounted for are discussed. Furthermore, the comparison between promising proton-exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) and solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) technologies used in EVs provides valuable insights into their respective strengths and challenges. By synthesizing these aspects, the paper aims to provide a comprehensive understanding and facilitate decision-making for future advancements in sustainable FC-EV transportation, thereby contributing to the realization of a cleaner, greener, and more environmentally friendly future.
Experimental Study on the Thermal Reduction of CO2 by Activated Solid Carbon-Based Fuels
Authors: Zhang Siyuan , Liang Chen , Zhu Zhiping , Cui Ruifang
Published: May 2024

For achieving CO2 thermal reduction, a technology combining solid carbon activation and high-temperature CO2 reduction was proposed, named as activated-reduction technology. In this study, this technology is realized by using a circulating fluidized bed and downdraft reactor. Reduced agent parameters (O2/C and CO2 concentration) greatly affect the reduction effect of CO2. In addition, the effect of the activation process on different carbon-based materials can help to broaden the range of carbon-based materials used for CO2 reduction, which is also an important issue. The following three points have been studied through experiments: (1) the influence of the characteristics of the reduced agent (CO2 concentration and O2/C) on CO2 reduction; (2) the performance of different chars in CO2 reduction; and (3) the activation effect of solid carbon. The activation process can develop the pore structure of coal gasification char and transform it into activated char with higher reactivity. The CO concentration in the tail gas is a crucial factor limiting the effectiveness of CO2 reduction, with an experimentally determined upper limit of around 55% at 1200 °C. If CO concentration is far from the upper limit, temperature becomes the significant influencing factor. When the reduced agent O2/C is 0.18, the highest net CO2 reduction of 0.021 Nm3/kg is achieved at 60% CO2 concentration. When the reduced agent CO2 concentration is 50%, the highest net CO2 reduction of 0.065 Nm3/kg is achieved at 0.22 O2/C. Compared with CPGC, YHGC has higher reactivity and is more suitable for CO2 reduction. The activation process helps to reduce the differences between raw materials.
Reinforcement Learning for Efficient Power Systems Planning: A Review of Operational and Expansion Strategies
Authors: Pesántez Gabriel , Guamán Wilian , Córdova José , Torres Miguel , Benalcazar Pablo
Published: May 2024

The efficient planning of electric power systems is essential to meet both the current and future energy demands. In this context, reinforcement learning (RL) has emerged as a promising tool for control problems modeled as Markov decision processes (MDPs). Recently, its application has been extended to the planning and operation of power systems. This study provides a systematic review of advances in the application of RL and deep reinforcement learning (DRL) in this field. The problems are classified into two main categories: Operation planning including optimal power flow (OPF), economic dispatch (ED), and unit commitment (UC) and expansion planning, focusing on transmission network expansion planning (TNEP) and distribution network expansion planning (DNEP). The theoretical foundations of RL and DRL are explored, followed by a detailed analysis of their implementation in each planning area. This includes the identification of learning algorithms, function approximators, action policies, agent types, performance metrics, reward functions, and pertinent case studies. Our review reveals that RL and DRL algorithms outperform conventional methods, especially in terms of efficiency in computational time. These results highlight the transformative potential of RL and DRL in addressing complex challenges within power systems.
Application of Strain Selection Technology in Alcoholic Beverages: A Review
Authors: Chen Xiaodie , Song Chuan , Zhao Jian , Xiong Zhuang , Peng Lianxin , Zou Liang , Shen Caihong , Li Qiang
Published: May 2024

The diversity of alcohol beverage microorganisms is of great significance for improving the brewing process and the quality of alcohol beverage products. During the process of making alcoholic beverages, a group of microorganisms, represented by yeast and lactic acid bacteria, conducts fermentation. These microorganisms have complex synergistic or competitive relationships, and the participation of different microorganisms has a major impact on the fermentation process and the flavor and aroma of the product. Strain selection is one of the key steps. Utilizing scientific breeding technology, the relationship between strains can be managed, the composition of the alcoholic beverage microbial community can be improved, and the quality and flavor of the alcoholic beverage products can be increased. Currently, research on the microbial diversity of alcohol beverages has received extensive attention. However, the selection technology for dominant bacteria in alcohol beverages has not yet been systematically summarized. To breed better-quality alcohol beverage strains and improve the quality and characteristics of wine, this paper introduces the microbial diversity characteristics of the world’s three major brewing alcohols: beer, wine, and yellow wine, as well as the breeding technologies of related strains. The application of culture selection technology in the study of microbial diversity of brewed wine was reviewed and analyzed. The strain selection technology and alcohol beverage process should be combined to explore the potential application of a diverse array of alcohol beverage strains, thereby boosting the quality and flavor of the alcohol beverage and driving the sustainable development of the alcoholic beverage industry.
Unveiling the Genomic Landscape of Intraductal Carcinoma of the Prostate Using Spatial Gene Expression Analysis
Authors: Watanabe Ryuta , Miura Noriyoshi , Kurata Mie , Kitazawa Riko , Kikugawa Tadahiko , Saika Takashi
Published: May 2024

Intraductal carcinoma of the prostate (IDCP) has recently attracted increasing interest owing to its unfavorable prognoses. To effectively identify the IDCP-specific gene expression profile, we took a novel approach of characterizing a typical IDCP case using spatial gene expression analysis. A formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded sample was subjected to Visium CytAssist Spatial Gene Expression analysis. IDCP within invasive prostate cancer sites was recognized as a distinct cluster separate from other invasive cancer clusters. Highly expressed genes defining the IDCP cluster, such as MUC6, MYO16, NPY, and KLK12, reflected the aggressive nature of high-grade prostate cancer. IDCP sites also showed increased hypoxia markers HIF1A, BNIP3L, PDK1, and POGLUT1; decreased fibroblast markers COL1A2, DCN, and LUM; and decreased immune cell markers CCR5 and FCGR3A. Overall, these findings indicate that the hypoxic tumor microenvironment and reduced recruitment of fibroblasts and immune cells, which reflect morphological features of IDCP, may influence the aggressiveness of high-grade prostate cancer.
Nutraceuticals in Psychiatric Disorders: A Systematic Review
Authors: Bozzatello Paola , Novelli Roberta , Montemagni Cristiana , Rocca Paola , Bellino Silvio
Published: May 2024

Correct nutrition and diet are directly correlated with mental health, functions of the immune system, and gut microbiota composition. Diets with a high content of some nutrients, such as fibers, phytochemicals, and short-chain fatty acids (omega-3 fatty acids), seem to have an anti-inflammatory and protective action on the nervous system. Among nutraceuticals, supplementation of probiotics and omega-3 fatty acids plays a role in improving symptoms of several mental disorders. In this review, we collect data on the efficacy of nutraceuticals in patients with schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorders, major depression, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders. This narrative review aims to provide an overview of recent evidence obtained on this topic, pointing out the direction for future research.
Links among Obesity, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, and Osteoporosis: Bone as a Target
Authors: Martiniakova Monika , Biro Roman , Penzes Noemi , Sarocka Anna , Kovacova Veronika , Mondockova Vladimira , Omelka Radoslav
Published: May 2024

Obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and osteoporosis are serious diseases with an ever-increasing incidence that quite often coexist, especially in the elderly. Individuals with obesity and T2DM have impaired bone quality and an elevated risk of fragility fractures, despite higher and/or unchanged bone mineral density (BMD). The effect of obesity on fracture risk is site-specific, with reduced risk for several fractures (e.g., hip, pelvis, and wrist) and increased risk for others (e.g., humerus, ankle, upper leg, elbow, vertebrae, and rib). Patients with T2DM have a greater risk of hip, upper leg, foot, humerus, and total fractures. A chronic pro-inflammatory state, increased risk of falls, secondary complications, and pharmacotherapy can contribute to the pathophysiology of aforementioned fractures. Bisphosphonates and denosumab significantly reduced the risk of vertebral fractures in patients with both obesity and T2DM. Teriparatide significantly lowered non-vertebral fracture risk in T2DM subjects. It is important to recognize elevated fracture risk and osteoporosis in obese and T2DM patients, as they are currently considered low risk and tend to be underdiagnosed and undertreated. The implementation of better diagnostic tools, including trabecular bone score, lumbar spine BMD/body mass index (BMI) ratio, and microRNAs to predict bone fragility, could improve fracture prevention in this patient group.
Resilient Older Subjects with Heterozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia, Baseline Differences and Associated Factors
Authors: Climent Elisenda , González-Guerrero Antón , Marco-Benedí Victoria , García-Andreu María-del-Mar , Mediavilla-García Juan Diego , Suárez-Tembra Manuel , Benaiges David , Pintó Xavier , Pedro-Botet Juan
Published: May 2024

Despite elevated low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels, some older subjects with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH) do not develop atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ACVD) during their lifetime. The factors related to this resilient state have not been fully established. The aim of this study was to evaluate differential characteristics between older HeFH subjects with and without ACVD and factors associated with the presence of ACVD. Subjects were part of the Spanish Atherosclerosis Society Dyslipidemia Registry, and those ≥ 70 years old and with HeFH were included. Baseline characteristics of these subjects with and without ACVD were compared. A multivariate analysis was performed to assess factors associated with the presence of ACVD. A total of 2148 subjects with HeFH were included. Resilient subjects were mostly female, younger and presented fewer comorbidities with respect to the ACVD group. Subjects without ACVD had higher baseline high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (55.8 ± 17.1 vs. 47.9 ± 15.4 mg/dL; p < 0.001) and lower lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] (53.4 ± 67.9 vs. 66.6 ± 85.6 mg/dL; p < 0.001) levels with respect to those in the ACVD group. Lp(a) and the presence of ≥3 risk factors were associated with the presence of ACVD.
The Transcription Factor MiMYB8 Suppresses Peel Coloration in Postharvest ‘Guifei’ Mango in Response to High Concentration of Exogenous Ethylene by Negatively Modulating MiPAL1
Authors: Aslam Muhammad Muzammal , Kou Mingrui , Dou Yaqi , Zou Shicheng , Li Rui , Li Wen , Shao Yuanzhi
Published: May 2024

Anthocyanin accumulation is regulated by specific genes during fruit ripening. Currently, peel coloration of mango fruit in response to exogenous ethylene and the underlying molecular mechanism remain largely unknown. The role of MiMYB8 on suppressing peel coloration in postharvest ‘Guifei’ mango was investigated by physiology detection, RNA-seq, qRT-PCR, bioinformatics analysis, yeast one-hybrid, dual-luciferase reporter assay, and transient overexpression. Results showed that compared with the control, low concentration of exogenous ethylene (ETH, 500 mg·L−1) significantly promoted peel coloration of mango fruit (cv. Guifei). However, a higher concentration of ETH (1000 mg·L−1) suppressed color transformation, which is associated with higher chlorophyll content, lower a* value, anthocyanin content, and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) activity of mango fruit. M. indica myeloblastosis8 MiMYB8 and MiPAL1 were differentially expressed during storage. MiMYB8 was highly similar to those found in other plant species related to anthocyanin biosynthesis and was located in the nucleus. MiMYB8 suppressed the transcription of MiPAL1 by binding directly to its promoter. Transient overexpression of MiMYB8 in tobacco leaves and mango fruit inhibited anthocyanin accumulation by decreasing PAL activity and down-regulating the gene expression. Our observations suggest that MiMYB8 may act as repressor of anthocyanin synthesis by negatively modulating the MiPAL gene during ripening of mango fruit, which provides us with a theoretical basis for the scientific use of exogenous ethylene in practice.
An In Vitro Study on the Application of Silver-Doped Platelet-Rich Plasma in the Prevention of Post-Implant-Associated Infections
Authors: Ceresa Chiara , Travagin Fabio , Marchetti Alice , Tessarolo Francesco , Fracchia Letizia , Giovenzana Giovanni Battista , Bosetti Michela
Published: May 2024

Implant therapy is a common treatment option in dentistry and orthopedics, but its application is often associated with an increased risk of microbial contamination of the implant surfaces that cause bone tissue impairment. This study aims to develop two silver-enriched platelet-rich plasma (PRP) multifunctional scaffolds active at the same time in preventing implant-associated infections and stimulating bone regeneration. Commercial silver lactate (L) and newly synthesized silver deoxycholate:β-Cyclodextrin (B), were studied in vitro. Initially, the antimicrobial activity of the two silver soluble forms and the PRP enriched with the two silver forms has been studied on microbial planktonic cells. At the same time, the biocompatibility of silver-enriched PRPs has been assessed by an MTT test on human primary osteoblasts (hOBs). Afterwards, an investigation was conducted to evaluate the activity of selected concentrations and forms of silver-enriched PRPs in inhibiting microbial biofilm formation and stimulating hOB differentiation. PRP-L (0.3 µg/mm2) and PRP-B (0.2 µg/mm2) counteract Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Candida albicans planktonic cell growth and biofilm formation, preserving hOB viability without interfering with their differentiation capability. Overall, the results obtained suggest that L- and B-enriched PRPs represent a promising preventive strategy against biofilm-related implant infections and demonstrate a new silver formulation that, together with increasing fibrin binding protecting silver in truncated cone-shaped cyclic oligosaccharides, achieved comparable inhibitory results on prokaryotic cells at a lower concentration.
Melatonin/Sericin Wound Healing Patches: Implications for Melanoma Therapy
Authors: Adamiak Katarzyna , Gaida Vivian A. , Schäfer Jasmin , Bosse Lina , Diemer Clara , Reiter Russel J. , Slominski Andrzej T. , Steinbrink Kerstin , Sionkowska Alina , Kleszczyński Konrad
Published: May 2024

Melatonin and sericin exhibit antioxidant properties and may be useful in topical wound healing patches by maintaining redox balance, cell integrity, and regulating the inflammatory response. In human skin, melatonin suppresses damage caused by ultraviolet radiation (UVR) which involves numerous mechanisms associated with reactive oxygen species/reactive nitrogen species (ROS/RNS) generation and enhancing apoptosis. Sericin is a protein mainly composed of glycine, serine, aspartic acid, and threonine amino acids removed from the silkworm cocoon (particularly Bombyx mori and other species). It is of interest because of its biodegradability, anti-oxidative, and anti-bacterial properties. Sericin inhibits tyrosinase activity and promotes cell proliferation that can be supportive and useful in melanoma treatment. In recent years, wound healing patches containing sericin and melatonin individually have attracted significant attention by the scientific community. In this review, we summarize the state of innovation of such patches during 2021–2023. To date, melatonin/sericin-polymer patches for application in post-operational wound healing treatment has been only sparingly investigated and it is an imperative to consider these materials as a promising approach targeting for skin tissue engineering or regenerative dermatology.
Molybdenum Complexes Derived from 2-Hydroxy-5-nitrobenzaldehyde and Benzhydrazide as Potential Oxidation Catalysts and Semiconductors
Authors: Pisk Jana , Šušković Mia , Topić Edi , Agustin Dominique , Judaš Nenad , Pavić Luka
Published: May 2024

This study aimed to synthesize molybdenum complexes coordinated with an aroyl hydrazone-type ligand (H2L), which was generated through the condensation of 2-hydroxy-5-nitrobenzaldehyde with benzhydrazide. The synthesis yielded two types of mononuclear complexes, specifically [MoO2(L)(MeOH)] and [MoO2(L)(H2O)], as well as a bipyridine-bridged dinuclear complex, [(MoO2(L))2(4,4’-bpy)]. Those entities were thoroughly characterized using a suite of analytical techniques, including attenuated total reflectance infrared spectroscopy (IR-ATR), elemental analysis (EA), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and single-crystal X-ray diffraction (SCXRD). Additionally, solid-state impedance spectroscopy (SS-IS) was employed to investigate the electrical properties of these complexes. The mononuclear complexes were tested as catalysts in the epoxidation of cyclooctene and the oxidation of linalool. Among these, the water-coordinated mononuclear complex, [MoO2(L)(H2O)], demonstrated superior electrical and catalytic properties. A novel contribution of this research lies in establishing a correlation between the electrical properties, structural features, and the catalytic efficiency of the complexes, marking this work as one of the pioneering studies in this area for molybdenum coordination complexes, to the best of our knowledge.
Expression and Localization Profiles of Tight Junction Proteins in Immune Cells Depend on Their Activation Status
Authors: Voges Lena , Weiß Franziska , Branco Ana-Teresa , Fromm Michael , Krug Susanne M.
Published: May 2024

The ability of the immune system to combat pathogens relies on processes like antigen sampling by dendritic cells and macrophages migrating through endo- and epithelia or penetrating them with their dendrites. In addition, other immune cell subtypes also migrate through the epithelium after activation. For paracellular migration, interactions with tight junctions (TJs) are necessary, and previous studies reported TJ protein expression in several immune cells. Our investigation aimed to characterize, in more detail, the expression profiles of TJ proteins in different immune cells in both naïve and activated states. The mRNA expression analysis revealed distinct expression patterns for TJ proteins, with notable changes, mainly increases, upon activation. At the protein level, LSR appeared predominant, being constitutively present in naïve cell membranes, suggesting roles as a crucial interaction partner. Binding experiments suggested the presence of claudins in the membrane only after stimulation, and claudin-8 translocation to the membrane occurred after stimulation. Our findings suggest a dynamic TJ protein expression in immune cells, implicating diverse functions in response to stimulation, like interaction with TJ proteins or regulatory roles. While further analysis is needed to elucidate the precise roles of TJ proteins, our findings indicate important non-canonical functions of TJ proteins in immune response.
Characterization of Phenolic Compounds in Extra Virgin Olive Oil from Granada (Spain) and Evaluation of Its Neuroprotective Action
Authors: López-Bascón María Asunción , Moscoso-Ruiz Inmaculada , Quirantes-Piné Rosa , del Pino-García Raquel , López-Gámez Gloria , Justicia-Rueda Andrea , Verardo Vito , Quiles José L.
Published: May 2024

The olive oil sector is a fundamental food in the Mediterranean diet. It has been demonstrated that the consumption of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) with a high content of phenolic compounds is beneficial in the prevention and/or treatment of many diseases. The main objective of this work was to study the relationship between the content of phenolic compounds and the in vitro neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory activity of EVOOs from two PDOs in the province of Granada. To this purpose, the amounts of phenolic compounds were determined by liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (HPLC–MS) and the inhibitory activity of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) enzymes by spectrophotometric and fluorimetric assays. The main families identified were phenolic alcohols, secoiridoids, lignans, flavonoids, and phenolic acids. The EVOO samples with the highest total concentration of compounds and the highest inhibitory activity belonged to the Picual and Manzanillo varieties. Statistical analysis showed a positive correlation between identified compounds and AChE and COX-2 inhibitory activity, except for lignans. These results confirm EVOO’s compounds possess neuroprotective potential.
Zebrafish Model in Illuminating the Complexities of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorders: A Unique Research Tool
Authors: Al-Zoubi Raed M. , Abu-Hijleh Haya , Zarour Ahmad , Zakaria Zain Z. , Yassin Aksam , Al-Ansari Abdulla A. , Al-Asmakh Maha , Bawadi Hiba
Published: May 2024

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a debilitating psychological condition that may develop in certain individuals following exposure to life-threatening or traumatic events. Distressing symptoms, including flashbacks, are characterized by disrupted stress responses, fear, anxiety, avoidance tendencies, and disturbances in sleep patterns. The enduring effects of PTSD can profoundly impact personal and familial relationships, as well as social, medical, and financial stability. The prevalence of PTSD varies among different populations and is influenced by the nature of the traumatic event. Recently, zebrafish have emerged as a valuable model organism in studying various conditions and disorders. Zebrafish display robust behavioral patterns that can be effectively quantified using advanced video-tracking tools. Due to their relatively simple nervous system compared to humans, zebrafish are particularly well suited for behavioral investigations. These unique characteristics make zebrafish an appealing model for exploring the underlying molecular and genetic mechanisms that govern behavior, thus offering a powerful comparative platform for gaining deeper insights into PTSD. This review article aims to provide updates on the pathophysiology of PTSD and the genetic responses associated with psychological stress. Additionally, it highlights the significance of zebrafish behavior as a valuable tool for comprehending PTSD better. By leveraging zebrafish as a model organism, researchers can potentially uncover novel therapeutic interventions for the treatment of PTSD and contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of this complex condition.