bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Establishing Normative Values for Acromion Anatomy: A Comprehensive MRI-Based Study in a Healthy Population of 996 Participants
Authors: Prietzel Anne , Languth Theo , Bülow Robin , Ittermann Till , Laqua René , Haralambiev Lyubomir , Wassilew Georgi Iwan , Ekkernkamp Axel , Bakir Mustafa Sinan
Published: January 2024

Shoulder pain is a common issue often linked to conditions such as subacromial impingement or rotator cuff lesions. The role of the acromion in these symptoms remains a subject of debate. This study aims to establish standardized values for commonly used acromion dimensions based on whole-body MRI scans of a large and healthy population and to investigate potential correlations between acromion shape and influencing factors such as sex, age, BMI, dominant hand, and shoulder pain. The study used whole-body MRI scans from the Study of Health in Pomerania, a German population-based study. Acromion index, acromion tilt, and acromion slope were measured. Interrater variability was tested with two independent, trained viewers on 100 MRI sequences before actual measurements started. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression were used to evaluate the results. We could define reference values based on a shoulder-healthy population for each acromion parameter within the 2.5 to 97.5 percentile. No significant differences were found in acromion slope, tilt, and index between male and female participants. No significant correlations were observed between acromion morphology and anthropometric parameters such as height, weight, or BMI. No significant differences were observed in acromion parameters between dominant and non-dominant hands or stated pain intensity. This study provides valuable reference values for acromion-related parameters, offering insight into the anatomy of a healthy shoulder. The findings indicate no significant differences in acromion morphology based on sex, weight, BMI, or dominant hand. Further research is necessary to ascertain the clinical implications of these reference values. The establishment of standardized reference values opens new possibilities for enhancing clinical decision making regarding surgical interventions, such as acromioplasty.
Deconstructing the Normalization of Data Colonialism in Educational Technology
Authors: Kohnke Lucas , Foung Dennis
Published: January 2024

As learning analytics and educational data mining have become the “new normal” in the field, scholars have observed the emergence of data colonialism. Generally, data colonialism can be understood as the process by which data were considered “free” to take and appropriate. Building on this theoretical understanding, this study aims to contextualize data colonialism in educational technology by identifying and reviewing learning analytics studies that adopted a predictive analytics approach. We examined 22 studies from major educational technology journals and noted how they (1) see data as a resource to appropriate, (2) establish new social relations, (3) show the concentration of wealth, and (4) promote ideologies. We found evidence of data colonialism in the field of educational technology. While these studies may promote “better” ideologies, it is concerning how they justify the authorities capitalizing on “free” data. After providing a contextualized view of data colonialism in educational technology, we propose several measures to decolonialize data practices, adopting a postcolonialist approach. We see data colonialism not only as a privacy issue but also as a culture that must be challenged.
Robust Wind Power Ramp Control Strategy Considering Wind Power Uncertainty
Authors: Ren Bixing , Jia Yongyong , Li Qiang , Wang Dajiang , Tang Weijia , Zhang Sen
Published: January 2024

Recent climate change has worsened the risk of extreme weather events, among which extreme offshore wind storms threaten secure operation by inducing offshore wind power ramps. Offshore wind power ramps cause the instantaneous power fluctuation of interconnected onshore grids and may lead to unexpected load shedding or generator tripping. In this paper, considering offshore wind power uncertainties, we propose a novel robust coordinated offshore wind power ramp control strategy by dispatching thermal units, energy storage systems, and hydrogen storage systems cooperatively. First, the impact of extreme wind storms on an offshore wind farm output power ramp is analyzed, and the general framework of offshore wind power ramp control is presented based on the two-stage robust optimization considering the dual uncertainties of load demand and wind power. Second, a coordinated wind power ramp control model is established considering the operational characteristics of different ramp control sources such as thermal units, energy storage systems, and offshore wind farms. Third, a robust ramp control strategy is developed using the column-and-constraint generation (CC&G) algorithm. Simulation results show the effectiveness of the proposed ramp control strategy.
A Spatiotemporal Graph Neural Network with Graph Adaptive and Attention Mechanisms for Traffic Flow Prediction
Authors: Huo Yanqiang , Zhang Han , Tian Yuan , Wang Zijian , Wu Jianqing , Yao Xinpeng
Published: January 2024

This study addresses the complex challenges associated with road traffic flow prediction and congestion management through the enhancement of the attention-based spatiotemporal graph convolutional network (ASTGCN) algorithm. Leveraging toll data and real-time traffic flow information from Orange County, California, the algorithm undergoes refinement to adeptly capture abrupt changes in road traffic dynamics and identify instances of acute congestion. The optimization of the graph structure is approached from both macro and micro perspectives, incorporating key factors such as road toll information, node connectivity, and spatial distances. A novel graph self-learning module is introduced to facilitate real-time adjustments, while an attention mechanism is seamlessly integrated into the spatiotemporal graph convolution module. The resultant model, termed AASTGNet, exhibits superior predictive accuracy compared to existing methodologies, with MAE, RMSE, and MAPE values of 8.6204, 14.0779, and 0.2402, respectively. This study emphasizes the importance of incorporating tolling schemes in road traffic flow prediction, addresses static graph structure limitations, and adapts dynamically to temporal variations and unexpected road events. The findings contribute to advancing the field of traffic prediction and congestion management, providing valuable insights for future research and practical applications.
How to Design and Evaluate mHealth Apps? A Case Study of a Mobile Personal Health Record App
Authors: Kim Guyeop , Hwang Dongwook , Park Jaehyun , Kim Hyun K. , Hwang Eui-Seok
Published: January 2024

The rapid growth of the mHealth market has led to the development of several tools to evaluate user experience. However, there is a lack of universal tools specifically designed for this emerging technology. This study was conducted with the aim of developing and verifying a user experience evaluation scale for mHealth apps based on factors proposed in previous research. The initial draft of the tool was created following a comprehensive review of existing questionnaires related to mHealth app evaluation. The validity of this scale was then tested through exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis. The results of the factor analysis led to the derivation of 16 items, which were conceptually mapped to five factors: ease of use and satisfaction, information architecture, usefulness, ease of information, and aesthetics. A case study was also conducted to improve mHealth apps concerning personal health records using this scale. In conclusion, the developed user experience evaluation scale for mHealth apps can provide comprehensive user feedback and contribute to the improvement of these apps.
An Accurate and Invertible Sketch for Super Spread Detection
Authors: Zhang Zheng , Lu Jie , Ren Quan , Li Ziyong , Hu Yuxiang , Chen Hongchang
Published: January 2024

Super spread detection has been widely applied in network management, recommender systems, and cyberspace security. It is more complicated than heavy hitter owing to the requirement of duplicate removal. Accurately detecting a super spread in real-time with small memory demands remains a nontrivial yet challenging issue. The previous work either had low accuracy or incurred heavy memory overhead and could not provide a precise cardinality estimation. This paper designed an invertible sketch for super spread detection with small memory demands and high accuracy. It introduces a power-weakening increment strategy that creates an environment encouraging sufficient competition at the early stages of discriminating a super spread and amplifying the comparative dominance to maintain accuracy. Extensive experiments have been performed based on actual Internet traffic traces and recommender system datasets. The trace-driven evaluation demonstrates that our sketch actualizes higher accuracy in super spread detection than state-of-the-art sketches. The super spread cardinality estimation error is 2.6–19.6 times lower than that of the previous algorithms.
A Time-Sensitive Graph Neural Network for Session-Based New Item Recommendation
Authors: Wang Luzhi , Jin Di
Published: January 2024

Session-based recommendation plays an important role in daily life and exists in many scenarios, such as online shopping websites and streaming media platforms. Recently, some works have focused on using graph neural networks (GNNs) to recommend new items in session-based scenarios. However, these methods have encountered several limitations. First, existing methods typically ignore the impact of items’ visited time in constructing session graphs, resulting in a departure from real-world recommendation dynamics. Second, sessions are often sparse, making it challenging for GNNs to learn valuable item embedding and user preferences. Third, the existing methods usually overemphasize the impact of the last item on user preferences, neglecting their interest in multiple items in a session. To address these issues, we introduce a time-sensitive graph neural network for new item recommendation in session-based scenarios, namely, TSGNN. Specifically, TSGNN provides a novel time-sensitive session graph constructing technique to solve the first problem. For the second problem, TSGNN introduces graph augmentation and contrastive learning into it. To solve the third problem, TSGNN designs a time-aware attention mechanism to accurately discern user preferences. By evaluating the compatibility between user preferences and candidate new item embeddings, our method recommends items with high relevance scores for users. Comparative experiments demonstrate the superiority of TSGNN over state-of-the-art (SOTA) methods.
Study on the Mechanism of Gas Intrusion and Its Transportation in a Wellbore under Shut-in Conditions
Authors: Zhu Haifeng , Xiang Ming , Lin Zhiqiang , Yang Jicheng , Wang Xuerui , Liu Xueqi , Wang Zhiyuan
Published: January 2024

This paper presents a comprehensive study based on multiphase-seepage and wellbore multiphase-flow theories. It establishes a model for calculating the rate of gas intrusion that considers various factors, including formation pore permeability, bottomhole pressure difference, rheology of the drilling fluid, and surface tension. Experiments were conducted to investigate the mechanism of gas intrusion under shut-in conditions, and the experimental results were employed to validate the reliability of the proposed method for calculating the gas intrusion rate. Furthermore, this research explores the transportation rates of single bubbles and bubble clusters in drilling fluid under shut-in conditions. Additionally, empirical expressions were derived for the drag coefficient for single bubbles and bubble clusters in the wellbore. These expressions can be used to calculate gas transportation rates for various equivalent radii of single bubbles and bubble clusters. The initial bubble size of intrusive gas, the transportation speed of intrusive gas in the wellbore, the rate of gas intrusion, and variations in the wellbore pressure after gas intrusion were analyzed. Additionally, a method was developed to calculate the rising velocity of bubble clusters in water based on experimental results. The study reveals that the average bubble size in the bubble cluster is significantly smaller than the size of single bubbles generated from the orifice. When the viscosity of the drilling fluid is low, the transportation velocity of the bubble cluster exhibits a positive correlation with the average bubble diameter. When the average bubble diameter exceeds 1 mm, the bubble velocity no longer varies with changes in the bubble-cluster diameter. The research results provide theoretical support for wellbore pressure prediction and pressure control under shutdown conditions.
Machine Learning-Based Indoor Relative Humidity and CO2 Identification Using a Piecewise Autoregressive Exogenous Model: A Cob Prototype Study
Authors: Benzaama Mohammed-Hichem , Touati Karim , El Mendili Yassine , Le Guern Malo , Streiff François , Goodhew Steve
Published: January 2024

The population of developed nations spends a significant amount of time indoors, and the implications of poor indoor air quality (IAQ) on human health are substantial. Many premature deaths attributed to exposure to indoor air pollutants result from diseases exacerbated by poor indoor air. CO2, one of these pollutants, is the most prevalent and often serves as an indicator of IAQ. Indoor CO2 concentrations can be significantly higher than outdoor levels due to human respiration and activity. The primary objective of this research was to numerically investigate the indoor relative humidity and CO2 in cob buildings through the CobBauge prototype, particularly during the first months following the building delivery. Both in situ experimental studies and numerical predictions using an artificial neural network were conducted for this purpose. The study presented the use of a piecewise autoregressive exogenous model (PWARX) for indoor relative humidity (RH) and CO2 content in a building constructed with a double walling system consisting of cob and light earth. The model was validated using experimental data collected over a 27-day period, during which indoor RH and CO2 levels were measured alongside external conditions. The results indicate that the PWARX model accurately predicted RH levels and categorized them into distinct states based on moisture content within materials and external conditions. However, while the model accurately predicted indoor CO2 levels, it faced challenges in finely classifying them due to the complex interplay of factors influencing CO2 levels in indoor environments.
Electric Vehicles—An Overview of Current Issues—Part 1—Environmental Impact, Source of Energy, Recycling, and Second Life of Battery
Authors: Guzek Marek , Jackowski Jerzy , Jurecki Rafał S. , Szumska Emilia M. , Zdanowicz Piotr , Żmuda Marcin
Published: January 2024

The rapid transition to electric-drive vehicles is taking place globally. Most automakers are adding electric models to their lineups to prepare for the new electric future. From the analysis of the automotive market, it is evident that there is a growing interest in such vehicles. They are expected to account for half the models released after 2030. Electric-drive vehicles include battery-electric vehicles. As indicated in the research literature and emphasized by experts, electric vehicles (EVs) are supposed to be an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional vehicles. The rising number and variety of EVs contribute to a better understanding of their performance. With more EVs on the market, there are problems to be solved and challenges to overcome. This article is the first part of a two-article series reviewing the strengths and weaknesses of EVs. The article analyzes the environmental effects of EVs at each stage of their life cycle, compares large- and small-scale recycling methods, and explores the potential applications of second-life batteries. This article is an attempt to find out how environmentally friendly EVs are.
Building Urban Forest Resilience to Sea Level Rise: A GIS-Based Climate Adaptation Tool for New York City
Authors: Kaur Ravneet , Hallett Richard A. , Strauss Navé
Published: January 2024

Urban forests in coastal regions are vulnerable to changing climate conditions, especially sea level rise (SLR). Such climate change impacts add complexity for urban forest managers as they make decisions related to tree species selection. The New York City (NYC) Parks Department manages over 660,000 street trees, many of which occupy sites that are susceptible to saltwater flooding. In order to build a resilient urban tree canopy in these flood-prone zones, we ranked tree species based on their overall tolerance to coastal vulnerability factors such as high winds, salt spray, and soil salinity. Our results revealed that 16 of the 44 species ranked high in overall tolerance to these factors. We also developed a GIS-based tool, specific to NYC, which delineates three coastal tiers based on their susceptibility to coastal vulnerability factors using SLR projections for the 2100s. The species list combined with the GIS tool provides urban forest managers a method to assign tree species to different coastal tiers based on their ability to withstand coastal climate change impacts into the future. We provide details on how this tool was developed for NYC so other coastal cities can replicate this approach to creating a more resilient future coastal urban forest.
The Effect of Balanced N, P and K Fertilization on Fine Root Traits and Soil Properties in Sapindus mukorossi
Authors: Liu Juntao , Zhou Ling , Wang Dongnan , Gong Yingyun , Yan Xiaoli , Cao Qiuli , Wu Shixiong , Weng Jianhui , Zhang Guoqing , Jia Liming
Published: January 2024

To uncover the relationship between fine root traits and soil properties of trees under different fertilization treatments is important for understanding the nutrient acquisition strategies of woody oilseed plants under scientific fertilization management. An experiment of randomized complete block design was conducted in a Sapindus mukoross plantation using combinations of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) fertilizers at different levels (Control: 0 kg·ha−2 of N, P and K; level 1: 300 kg·ha−2 of N, 250 kg·ha−2 of P, and 200 kg·ha−2 of K; level 2: 600 kg·ha−2 of N, 500 kg·ha−2 of P, and 400 kg·ha−2 of K; and level 3: 900 kg·ha−2 of N, 750 kg·ha−2 of P, and 600 kg·ha−2 of K). The response of fine root traits and soil properties of Sapindus mukoross to the application of different nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) combinations was investigated by measuring fine root traits and soil properties indices. The results showed that: (1) The soil surface is the main location of fine roots. In the 0–20 cm soil layer, the FRB, RLD, FSRL, and RAD of Sapindus mukoross were significantly increased under the fertilization treatment compared with the control. (2) In the 0–20 cm soil layer, the SOC, TN, TP, TK, AP, AK and AN of Sapindus mukoross soils were higher than those of the control group under different fertilization treatments, except for the pH. (3) Correlation analysis showed that FRB and RLD were significantly and positively correlated with SOC, AN and AP, while TP and AP were negatively correlated with FSRL and positively correlated with RAD. RDA showed that AP content in soil was the main factor which influenced the fine root traits of Sapindus mukoross. The results of the study revealed the response strategies of fine root traits and soil properties of Sapindus mukoross to N, P and K fertilizers, provided theoretical support for the scientific cultivation of woody oilseed species, and suggested scientific and rational fertilization and management strategies for Sapindus mukoross plantation forests, a species widely planted in the southern region of China.
Heritable Epigenetic Modification of BpIAA9 Causes the Reversion Mutation of Leaf Shapes in Betula pendula ‘Dalecarlica’
Authors: Zhang Xingxing , Gu Chenrui , Jiang Jing , Liu Guifeng , Li Huiyu
Published: January 2024

The European white birch, scientifically known as Betula pendula, and its variant, B. pendula ‘Dalecarlica’, are characterized by a lobed leaf margin that enhances their aesthetic appeal. However, the lobed leaf trait can undergo random and spontaneous reversion to the typical ovoid or cordate shape during asexual reproduction. Investigating and elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying this unpredictable reversion mutation is essential for comprehending the birch leaf development process. In this research, we employed an ovate−leaf mutant derived from a lobed–leaf birch clone during plant tissue culture. We adopted a multi-omics approach, including whole-genome resequencing, transcriptome sequencing, and methylation profiling, to analyze and compare genomic variations and gene expression modifications. The study revealed that the 24 variant genes affected by 1464 SNP/InDel sites in the genome of the ovate−leaf mutant are not associated with leaf development. While the overall methylation level in the mutant’s genome closely resembles that of the lobed–leaf birch, ten genes exhibit differential methylation accompanied by differential expression. Transcriptome sequencing demonstrated that the differentially downregulated genes in the mutant are significantly enriched in the GO:0009733 (response to auxin) and GO:0009734 (auxin-activated signaling) pathways. Validation through McrBC−PCR and qRT−PCR confirmed differential methylation and expression of BpIAA9 in the reversion mutant. The elevated methylation level in the BpIAA9 promoter leads to reduced expression, resulting in changes in the expression of auxin-responsive genes. This, in turn, leads to a transcriptional downregulation enrichment effect in auxin-related pathways in the reversion mutant, ultimately inhibiting the regulation of leaf veins by auxin during their development.
Investigation of the Effect of Chemical Treatment on the Properties of Colombian Banana and Coir Fibers and Their Adhesion Behavior on Polylactic Acid and Unsaturated Polyester Matrices
Authors: Barrera-Fajardo Ismael , Rivero-Romero Oswaldo , Unfried-Silgado Jimy
Published: January 2024

In this work, the adhesion behavior of chemically treated banana and coir Colombian fibers embedded in polylactic acid (PLA) and unsaturated polyester resin (UPR) matrices was investigated. Both types of fibers were treated with a 5 wt.% sodium hydroxide solution for one hour. The properties of treated and untreated fibers were determined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and tensile tests. To evaluate the adhesion behavior of the fibers in PLA and UPR matrices, pull-out tests were performed, and the percentage of broken fibers was determined. The results showed that alkaline treatment improved the fibers’ physicochemical, mechanical, and thermal properties. In addition, the alkaline treatment was able to improve the adhesion behavior of coir and banana fibers to PLA and UPR matrices. The banana fibers showed a percentage of broken fibers of 100%, while the coir fibers showed a slight increase in IFSS value. This behavior is attributed to the improvement in surface roughness due to the removal of non-cellulosic composites and impurities.
Taxonomic Status of Nanotyrannus lancensis (Dinosauria: Tyrannosauroidea)—A Distinct Taxon of Small-Bodied Tyrannosaur
Authors: Longrich Nicholas R. , Saitta Evan T.
Published: January 2024

Tyrannosaurs are among the most intensively studied and best-known dinosaurs. Despite this, their relationships and systematics are highly controversial. An ongoing debate concerns the validity of Nanotyrannus lancensis, interpreted either as a distinct genus of small-bodied tyrannosaur or a juvenile of Tyrannosaurus rex. We examine multiple lines of evidence and show that the evidence strongly supports recognition of Nanotyrannus as a distinct species for the following reasons: 1. High diversity of tyrannosaurs and predatory dinosaurs supports the idea that multiple tyrannosaurids inhabited the late Maastrichtian of Laramidia; 2. Nanotyrannus lacks characters supporting referral to Tyrannosaurus or Tyrannosaurinae but differs from T. rex in >150 morphological characters, while intermediate forms combining the features of Nanotyrannus and T. rex are unknown; 3. Histology shows specimens of Nanotyrannus showing (i) skeletal fusions, (ii) mature skull bone textures, (iii) slow growth rates relative to T. rex, (iv) decelerating growth in their final years of life, and (v) growth curves predicting adult masses of ~1500 kg or less, showing these animals are subadults and young adults, not juvenile Tyrannosaurus; 4. growth series of other tyrannosaurids, including Tarbosaurus and Gorgosaurus, do not show morphological changes proposed for a Nanotyrannus–Tyrannosaurus growth series, and deriving Tyrannosaurus from Nanotyrannus requires several changes inconsistent with known patterns of dinosaur development; 5. Juvenile T. rex exist, showing diagnostic features of Tyrannosaurus; 6. Phylogenetic analysis suggests that Nanotyrannus may lie outside Tyrannosauridae. Tyrannosaur diversity before the K-Pg extinction is higher than previously appreciated. The challenges inherent in diagnosing species based on fossils mean paleontologists may be systematically underestimating the diversity of ancient ecosystems.
Genetic Variation in Angiotensin II Type 1 Receptor Is Linked to Lipid Levels and Hepatic Steatosis in Alcohol-Associated Liver Disease, but Not to Cirrhosis or Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Nischalke Hans Dieter , Schmalz Franziska , Fischer Janett , Möller Christine , Matz-Soja Madlen , Krämer Benjamin , Langhans Bettina , Nattermann Jacob , Berg Thomas , Strassburg Christian P. , Lutz Philipp
Published: January 2024

Background: Development of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with high alcohol intake is modulated by genetic predispositions. Genetic variation in angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AGTR1) has been described as a risk factor for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in Asian patients. Methods: We analysed Caucasian patients with alcohol–associated cirrhosis without (n = 238) and with (n = 339) HCC, healthy controls (n = 200), and HCV–infected cirrhotic patients with and without HCC (n = 263) for association with the polymorphisms rs3772622 and rs2276736 in AGTR1. Results: Rs2276736 in AGTR1 was associated with both low–density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels and hepatic steatosis in patients with alcohol–associated liver disease. The distribution of genotypes for both rs3772622 and rs2276736 in AGTR1 were comparable between controls, cirrhosis patients, and those with HCC. Minor allele frequencies were 32% (44%) in healthy controls, 35%/34% (46%/45%) in alcohol–associated liver disease without/with HCC and 31%/38% (43%/39%) in HCV cirrhosis and HCV HCC, respectively. The genotype of the most important genetic risk factor for fatty liver disease, PNPLA3 I148M, did not interact with the AGTR1 polymorphisms. Conclusion: Genetic variation in AGTR1, although associated with blood lipid levels and hepatic steatosis, is not a risk factor for alcohol–associated cirrhosis or HCC in Caucasians.
Statistical Analysis of Mt. Vesuvius Earthquakes Highlights Pitfalls in Magnitude Estimation
Authors: Godano Cataldo , Pino Nicola
Published: January 2024

Here, we characterize the statistical behaviour of the Mt. Vesuvius seismicity using distinct available catalogues. Our analysis confirms that for this area, the GR distribution exhibited two scaling regimes of the b-value, not commonly observed for the standard frequency-magnitude distribution of earthquakes. By assuming a physical cause, we tested four different hypotheses for the source of the break in the scaling: finite size effect, depth variations in the b-value, radial dependence in the b-value, and different b-values for swarm and non-swarm events. None of the above reasons are able to explain the observation. Thus, we investigated the possibility of some pitfalls in magnitude estimation. Based on our analysis, we suggest there is a bias in the duration magnitude the catalogues are based on. This is due to the arbitrary extrapolation to smaller magnitudes of a linear regression derived for earthquakes with m≥3.0. When a suitable correction is applied to the estimated magnitude, the GR distribution assumes the usual shape, with a b-value closer to that usually observed in volcanic areas. Finally, the analysis of the time variation of some statistical parameters reveals that the state of the volcano appears to be stationary over the entire analysed period, possibly with only a slight increase in the b-value, indicating a small reduction in differential stress.
Canonical Correlation for the Analysis of Lifestyle Behaviors versus Cardiovascular Risk Factors and the Prediction of Cardiovascular Mortality: A Population Study
Authors: Menotti Alessandro , Puddu Paolo Emilio
Published: January 2024

Objectives: To assess the overall association of lifestyle behaviors with multiple cardiovascular risk factors and mortality. Material and Methods: In the Italian Rural Areas of the Seven Countries Study, involving 1712 middle-aged men (40–59 years) enrolled in 1960, smoking habits, physical activity, dietary habits, marital status, and socioeconomic status (SES) were studied as possible determinants of 15 measurable risk factors (body mass index, tricipital and subscapular skinfold, arm circumference, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, heart rate, double product (systolic blood pressure × heart rate), vital capacity, forced expiratory volume, serum cholesterol, urine protein, urine glucose, corneal arcus and xanthelasma) using canonical correlation (CC). Results: The first CC had a value of 0.54 (R2 0.29, p < 0.0001). The role of marital status was marginal; that of a high SES was contrary to expectations. The strongest behaviors based on standardized CC coefficients were dietary habits and physical activity. The risk factors mostly associated with overall lifestyle behaviors were some anthropometric and cardiovascular measurements. The mean levels of risk factors distributed in tertile classes of the CC variate score of lifestyle behaviors were largely associated in a coherent and graded way with the expected relationship of behaviors versus risk factors. In a large series of Cox models, the CC variate scores were significantly associated with 50-year coronary heart disease (CHD) mortality and much less with stroke and other heart diseases of uncertain etiology. Conclusions: Lifestyle behaviors correlate well with cardiovascular risk factors associated with CHD mortality, and CC is a useful method of analysis to detect long-term impacting characteristics.
Traditional Knowledge and Biocultural Heritage about Medicinal Plants in a European Transboundary Area (La Raya: Extremadura, Spain—Alentejo, Portugal): Transdisciplinary Research for Curriculum Design in Health Sciences
Authors: Vallejo José Ramón , Baptista Geilsa Costa Santos , Arco Helena , González José A. , Santos-Fita Dídac , Postigo-Mota Salvador
Published: January 2024

Traditional knowledge about medicinal plants, and the biocultural heritage derived from them, can be a useful tool for curricular design in health sciences. Research on this topic oriented toward university students has an interesting potential from a multidisciplinary or transdisciplinary treatment. This field allows for establishing relationships between socioeconomic and environmental problems and the health and well-being of people from the perspective of the intangible heritage of rural communities. On the other hand, traditional knowledge draws from very diverse sources such as empirical, magical, and religious components, primitive medicines, and even from academic medicine itself when it ceases to be scientific. Methodological triangulation is used in terms of data (times, spaces, and people), as well as researchers from different areas of knowledge integrating approaches with an interpretive purpose. Located in a European transboundary territory, the study area contains the mountain ranges of Alor (Spain) and São Mamede (Portugal), two cross-border areas where key informants have been interviewed. The observation unit is people who perform traditional practices to gather natural products, and other randomly selected informants. The study was completed with information collected from the undergraduates of the Escola Superior de Saúde de Portalegre (Portugal). The purpose of this work was to highlight the application of traditional knowledge based on medicinal plants in university studies of health sciences. Based on the results obtained and an epistemological discussion, we propose an educational intervention to broaden the professional mindset from a biocultural perspective. Our proposal directs the student’s gaze toward the investigation of medical history and biocultural heritage to understand the determinants of health and to respect the idiosyncrasies of their communities.
The Association of Context with Reported Self-Efficacy for Cancer-Preventive Behaviors and Perceived Cancer Risk in U.S. Adults from the Midlife in the United States (MIDUS) Study
Authors: Pichardo Catherine M. , Dwyer Laura A. , Ferrer Rebecca A. , Oh April Y.
Published: January 2024

Background: Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in the United States. It is critical to understand the associations among multilevel determinants of cancer prevention and control behaviors. This study examined associations of neighborhood factors with perceived risk of cancer and self-efficacy for reducing cancer risk. Methods: Cross-sectional analyses included 2324 U.S. adults from the Midlife in the U.S. Wave 3. Participants completed surveys of neighborhood environment (perceived neighborhood trust and safety, built environment conditions, social integration), perceived cancer risk and cancer prevention efficacy. Multivariate linear regressions examined associations of neighborhood context with risk perceptions and self-efficacy. Results: In the model that adjusted for sociodemographic characteristics, better perceived neighborhood trust and safety were associated with lower perceived cancer risk. In fully adjusted models for sociodemographic characteristics and contextual factors, higher perceptions of neighborhood trust and safety were associated with higher cancer prevention self-efficacy. Perceptions of better built neighborhood conditions and higher social integration were significantly associated with lower perceived cancer risk and higher perceived cancer prevention efficacy. Conclusions: Perceptions of neighborhood context may play a role in shaping psychosocial factors such as perceived cancer risk and self-efficacy, even after controlling for robust predictors of these perceptions.
Attenuation of PI3K-Akt-mTOR Pathway to Reduce Cancer Stemness on Chemoresistant Lung Cancer Cells by Shikonin and Synergy with BEZ235 Inhibitor
Authors: Huang Yen-Hsiang , Chiu Ling-Yen , Tseng Jeng-Sen , Hsu Kuo-Hsuan , Chen Chang-Han , Sheu Gwo-Tarng , Yang Tsung-Ying
Published: January 2024

Lung cancer is considered the number one cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Although current treatments initially reduce the lung cancer burden, relapse occurs in most cases; the major causes of mortality are drug resistance and cancer stemness. Recent investigations have provided evidence that shikonin generates various bioactivities related to the treatment of cancer. We used shikonin to treat multi-resistant non-small lung cancer cells (DOC-resistant A549/D16, VCR-resistant A549/V16 cells) and defined the anti-cancer efficacy of shikonin. Our results showed shikonin induces apoptosis in these ABCB1-dependent and independent chemoresistance cancer sublines. Furthermore, we found that low doses of shikonin inhibit the proliferation of lung cancer stem-like cells by inhibiting spheroid formation. Concomitantly, the mRNA level and protein of stemness genes (Nanog and Oct4) were repressed significantly on both sublines. Shikonin reduces the phosphorylated Akt and p70s6k levels, indicating that the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway is downregulated by shikonin. We further applied several signaling pathway inhibitors that have been used in anti-cancer clinical trials to test whether shikonin is suitable as a sensitizer for various signaling pathway inhibitors. In these experiments, we found that low doses shikonin and dual PI3K-mTOR inhibitor (BEZ235) have a synergistic effect that inhibits the spheroid formation from chemoresistant lung cancer sublines. Inhibiting the proliferation of lung cancer stem cells is believed to reduce the recurrence of lung cancer; therefore, shikonin’s anti-drug resistance and anti-cancer stem cell activities make it a highly interesting molecule for future combined lung cancer therapy.
State-of-the-Art Macromolecules in Portugal
Authors: Valente Artur J. M. , Santos Nuno C. , Moreno Maria João
Published: January 2024

This Special Issue presents five contributions covering various topics, as it would be expected for an area as comprehensive and multidisciplinary as Macromolecules [...]
Molecular Targeting of the BRAF Proto-Oncogene/Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase (MAPK) Pathway across Cancers
Authors: Shan Khine S. , Rehman Tauseef U. , Ivanov Stan , Domingo Gelenis , Raez Luis E.
Published: January 2024

The mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway is essential for cellular proliferation, growth, and survival. Constitutive activation of this pathway by BRAF mutations can cause downstream activation of kinases, leading to uncontrolled cellular growth and carcinogenesis. Therefore, inhibition of BRAF and the downstream substrate MEK has been shown to be effective in controlling tumor growth and proliferation. Over the last decade, several BRAF and MEK inhibitors have been investigated, ranging from primarily melanoma to various cancer types with BRAF alterations. This subsequently led to several Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approvals for BRAF/MEK inhibitors for melanoma, non-small cell lung cancer, anaplastic thyroid cancer, colorectal cancer, histiocytosis neoplasms, and finally, tumor-agnostic indications. Here, this comprehensive review will cover the developments of BRAF and MEK inhibitors from melanomas to tumor-agnostic indications, novel drugs, challenges, future directions, and the importance of those drugs in personalized medicine.
miR-129 Regulates Yak Intramuscular Preadipocyte Proliferation and Differentiation through the PI3K/AKT Pathway
Authors: Qin Chunyu , Wang Hui , Zhong Jincheng , Ran Hongbiao , Peng Wei
Published: January 2024

miR-129 plays a crucial role in regulating various cellular processes, including adipogenesis; however, its downstream molecular mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, we demonstrated that miR-129 promotes yak adipogenesis in vitro via the PI3K/AKT pathway. Overexpression and interference of miR-129 in yak intramuscular preadipocytes (YIMAs) enhanced and inhibited cell differentiation, respectively, with corresponding changes in cell proliferation. Further investigation revealed that miR-129 enhances AKT and p-AKT activity in the AKT pathway without affecting cell apoptosis, and a specific inhibitor (LY294002) was used to confirm that miR-129 regulates YIMAs proliferation and differentiation through the PI3K/AKT pathway. Our findings suggest that miR-129 promotes yak adipogenesis by enhancing PI3K/AKT pathway activity. This study provides the foundation to precisely elucidate the molecular mechanism of miR-129 in YIMAs adipogenesis and develop advanced miRNA-based strategies to improve meat nutrition and obesity-related ailments in beef production.
Smartphone-Based Cost-Effective Pavement Performance Model Development Using a Machine Learning Technique with Limited Data
Authors: Wasiq Samiulhaq , Golroo Amir
Published: January 2024

Road networks play a significant role in each country’s economy, especially in countries such as Afghanistan, which is strategically located in the international transit path from Europe to East Asia. In such a country, pavement performance models are fundamental for the pavement maintenance planning that provides high-quality infrastructure for transporting goods and travelers. However, due to the lack of a budget for pavement monitoring and maintenance in Afghanistan, transportation networks and pavement condition data have not been widely acquired for the development of a pavement performance model. The main aim of this study is to use a machine learning technique to, for the first time, develop a pavement performance model for Afghanistan that uses simple, cost-effective, and fairly accurate data—collected via smartphones—and that is based on a case study of over 550 km of Afghanistan’s highways. First, the current condition of Afghanistan’s road network is investigated using a smartphone. Then, collected data are prepared and analyzed so as to estimate the pavement condition index (PCI). Finally, a pavement performance model for PCI is developed using pavement age with an adequate coefficient of determination of 0.70 and successfully validated. It is concluded that the proposed approach is efficient and effective when developing a performance model in other developing countries encountering such data and budget limitations.
An Overview of Aquatica Fu et al., a Phylogeny of Aquatic Fireflies Using Mitochondrial Genomes, a Description of Two New Species, and a New Record of Aquatic Fireflies in China (Coleoptera: Lampyridae: Luciolinae)
Authors: Fu Xinhua , Ballantyne Lesley
Published: January 2024

There are now seven species in the genus Aquatica Fu & Ballantyne, with all but one known from the characteristics of males, females, and larvae. Molecular information is combined with morphological taxonomy for the delimitation of both genus and species. The monophyly of the genus Aquatica is strongly supported in six trees, and its position as sister to the genus Nipponoluciola Ballantyne Kawashima Jusoh et Suzuki is stable across maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference results. Two new species of Aquatica Fu & Ballantyne, A. qingshen sp. nov. and A. xianning sp. nov., described from the features of males, females, and larvae, are closely related within a single clade within the genus Aquatica. Females have distinctively shaped median oviduct plates. A Chinese population identified as A. lateralis was found to be morphologically similar to the Japanese population, but genetic distances suggest that it is a distinctive species. No larvae are associated with this species. Definitions of the aquatic status of Luciolinae fireflies are expanded.
Physical Activity in Patients with Neuromuscular Disease Three Years after COVID-19, a Longitudinal Survey: The After-Effects of the Quarantine and the Benefits of a Return to a Healthier Life-Style
Authors: Leale Ignazio , Giustino Valerio , Trapani Paolo , Alonge Paolo , Rini Nicasio , Cutrò Ivana , Leone Olga , Torrente Angelo , Lupica Antonino , Palma Antonio , Roccella Michele , Brighina Filippo , Di Stefano Vincenzo , Battaglia Giuseppe
Published: January 2024

Background: Quarantine was one of the strategies adopted by governments against the spread of COVID-19. This restriction has caused an increase in sedentary behaviors and a decrease in the practice of physical activity (PA), with a consequent negative impact on lifestyle both in healthy people and in those who need constant practice of PA to combat diseases, such as patients suffering from neuromuscular diseases (NMDs). Hence, this study aimed to compare PA levels among patients with NMD during and after quarantine. Methods: An adapted version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short-Form and the Short-Form Health Survey were administered during COVID-19 quarantine (T0) and after 3 years (T1) to 91 Italian patients with NMDs. Results: We found a significant increase in the total PA level at T1, with no significant changes in vigorous-intensity PA. Moreover, a significant decrease in the PA level was found among the patients with different NMDs. No significant changes in physical component scores and mental component scores were detected. Conclusions: Our results suggest that it would be necessary to provide alternative indoor exercise settings to prevent the adoption of sedentary behaviors.
Case Report of a 4-Year-Old Girl with Stage IV Grade C Localized Periodontitis (Pre-Puberal Localized Aggressive Periodontitis) Affected by Misrecognition and Late Diagnosis
Authors: Moga Radu-Andrei , Olteanu Cristian Doru , Delean Ada Gabriela
Published: January 2024

Background and Objectives: Stage IV grade C localized periodontitis (pre-puberal localized aggressive periodontitis/LPP) is a rare form of inflammatory periodontal disease occurring in clinically healthy individuals (no/small calculus/dental plaque traces), due a hyper-aggressive auto-immune response to high amounts of bacteria present in the oral cavity. Case Presentation: This case report describes a 4-year-old Caucasian girl with localized gingival inflammation and advanced bone loss around the temporary lower left canine. The first diagnostic assumption was hypophosphatasia, and the patient was sent for further genetic and metabolic investigations (which turned out to be negative). The LPP diagnosis was made during the family’s summer holidays due to her parents’ concerns about persistent gingival inflammation and tooth mobility. Results: The diagnosis of LPP was supported by clinical oral examination results, earlier X-rays, earlier blood tests, and a periodontal bacterial test. The treatment was limited to avoid spreading inflammation to other teeth (via topical antibiotic treatment) due to our limited time frame, while the main problem of excessive amounts of periodontal bacteria in the oral cavity was not addressed. The tooth was eventually lost. Conclusions: The ability to early recognize radiological and clinical LPP signs correlated with understanding of its pathological auto-immune mechanism is extremely important for expanding treatment options, since bone preservation and reducing amounts of bacteria are strictly correlated with therapeutic speed.
Aortic Vascular Graft and Endograft Infection–Patient Outcome Cannot Be Determined Based on Pre-Operative Characteristics
Authors: Puttini Ilaria , Kapalla Marvin , Braune Anja , Michler Enrico , Kröger Joselyn , Lutz Brigitta , Sakhalihasan Natzi , Trenner Matthias , Biro Gabor , Weber Wolfgang , Rössel Thomas , Reeps Christian , Eckstein Hans-Henning , Wolk Steffen , Knappich Christoph , Notohamiprodjo Susan , Busch Albert
Published: January 2024

Vascular graft/endograft infection (VGEI) is a serious complication after aortic surgery. This study investigates VGEI and patient characteristics, PET/CT quantification before surgical or conservative management of VGEI and post-intervention outcomes in order to identify patients who might benefit from such a procedure. PET standard uptake values (SUV) were quantitatively assessed and compared to a non-VGEI cohort. The primary endpoints were in-hospital mortality and aortic reintervention-free survival at six months. Ninety-three patients (75% male, 65 ± 10 years, 82% operated) were included. The initial operation was mainly for aneurysm (67.7%: 31% EVAR, 12% TEVAR, 57% open aortic repair). Thirty-two patients presented with fistulae. PET SUVTLR (target-to-liver ratio) showed 94% sensitivity and 89% specificity. Replacement included silver-coated Dacron (21.3%), pericardium (61.3%) and femoral vein (17.3%), yet the material did not influence the overall survival (p = 0.745). In-hospital mortality did not differ between operative and conservative treatment (19.7% vs. 17.6%, p = 0.84). At six months, 50% of the operated cohort survived without aortic reintervention. Short- and midterm morbidity and mortality remained high after aortic graft removal. Neither preoperative characteristics nor the material used for reconstruction influenced the overall survival, and, with limitations, both the in-hospital and midterm survival were similar between the surgically and conservatively managed patients.