bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Overrepresentation of Students from a Migrant Background in Special Education: Promoting Inclusive and Equitable Education
Authors: Cotán Almudena , de-Besa Manuel , Ruiz-Bejarano Aurora Mª , Ossorio-Núñez Margarita
Published: December 2023

This study analyses the overrepresentation of students from a migrant background in special education in the stage of primary education, in the region of El Campo de Gibraltar (Southern Spain). This phenomenon poses significant concerns in terms of educational equity and discrimination, as well as questions about the possible underlying causes. It was decided to address this issue from a qualitative methodology through semi-structured interviews with 16 educators of educational centres that have a significant number of students from a migrant background. The results show the need of educators for specific training in attention to diversity. Likewise, many migrant families come to Spain due to the lack of adequate attention that their children receive in their home countries. Lastly, language and cultural barriers were identified, which allow for biased assessments and subjective decisions that result in the referral of students from a migrant background to special education from a multidimensional perspective. Therefore, it is fundamental to provide training to professionals, overcome the language and cultural barriers and ensure that the necessary resources are available, thus guaranteeing an inclusive and equitable education for all students, regardless of their origin.
Urban Traffic Simulation Using Mobility Patterns Synthesized from Real Sensors
Authors: Gonçalves Fábio , Silva Gonçalo O. , Santos Alexandre , Rocha Ana Maria A. C. , Peixoto Hugo , Durães Dalila , Machado José
Published: December 2023

Smart cities are an ongoing research topic with multiple sub-research areas, from traffic control to optimization and even safety. However, testing the new methodologies or technologies directly in the real world is an almost impossible feat that, inclusively, can result in disaster. Thus, there is the importance of simulation. Simulation enables testing new and complex methodologies and gauging their impact in a realistic context without adding any safety issues. Additionally, these can accurately map real-world conditions depending on the simulation configuration. One key aspect of the simulation is the traffic flows in the simulated region. These may be hard to find and, if ill-set, may introduce bias in the results. This work is on the characterization of the traffic in the city center of Guimarães, Portugal. An urban simulation scenario was established, using SUMO as the mobility traffic simulator, with traffic patterns derived from real-world data provided by Guimarães City Hall and using Eclipse MOSAIC for extended vehicular simulation. Apart from mobility patterns analysis, this work also provides publicly accessible datasets, simulations, and applications made available to future research works.
Privacy-First Paradigm for Dynamic Consent Management Systems: Empowering Data Subjects through Decentralized Data Controllers and Privacy-Preserving Techniques
Authors: Khalid Muhammad Irfan , Ahmed Mansoor , Helfert Markus , Kim Jungsuk
Published: December 2023

This paper explicitly focuses on utilizing blockchain technology in dynamic consent management systems with privacy considerations. While blockchain offers improved security, the potential impact on entities’ privacy must be considered. Through a critical investigation of available contributions to the present state of the art of blockchain-based dynamic consent management systems, we highlight the limitations of plaintext storage and the processing of subject data/consent on the blockchain, which can compromise privacy. We stress the significance of keeping encrypted subject data/consent on the blockchain and sharing it in encrypted form with data controllers and requesters to guarantee privacy and security. Our proposed model demonstrates the usefulness of privacy-preserving techniques, underscoring the decentralization of the abstract entity data controller to enhance subject data/consent privacy. Additionally, we suggest the integration of privacy-enhancing technologies such as secure multi-party computation, homomorphic encryption, and differential privacy with blockchain to accomplish both security and privacy, aligning with the data sharing practices outlined in the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in Europe.
One-Dimensional Quaternion Discrete Fourier Transform and an Approach to Its Fast Computation
Authors: Majorkowska-Mech Dorota , Cariow Aleksandr
Published: December 2023

This paper proposes a new method for calculating the quaternion discrete Fourier transform for one-dimensional data. Although the computational complexity of the proposed method still belongs to the O(Nlog2N) class, it allows us to reduce the total number of arithmetic operations required to perform it compared to other known methods for computing this transform. Moreover, compared to the method using symplectic decomposition, the presented method does not require changing the basis in the subspace of pure quaternions and, consequently, calculating the new basis vectors and change-of-basis matrix.
A Review of Homography Estimation: Advances and Challenges
Authors: Luo Yinhui , Wang Xingyi , Liao Yanhao , Fu Qiang , Shu Chang , Wu Yuezhou , He Yuanqing
Published: December 2023

Images captured from different viewpoints or devices have often exhibited significant geometric and photometric differences due to factors such as environmental variations, camera technology differences, and shooting conditions’ instability. To address this problem, homography estimation has attracted much attention as a method to describe the geometric projection relationship between images. Researchers have proposed numerous homography estimation methods for single-source and multimodal images in the past decades. However, the comprehensive review and analysis of homography estimation methods, from feature-based to deep learning-based, is still lacking. Therefore, we provide a comprehensive overview of research advances in homography estimation methods. First, we provide a detailed introduction to homography estimation’s core principles and matrix representations. Then, we review homography estimation methods for single-source and multimodal images, from feature-based to deep learning-based methods. Specifically, we analyze traditional and learning-based methods for feature-based homography estimation methods in detail. For deep learning-based homography estimation methods, we explore supervised, unsupervised, and other methods in-depth. Subsequently, we specifically review several metrics used to evaluate these methods. After that, we analyze the relevant applications of homography estimation and show the broad application prospects of this technique. Finally, we discuss current challenges and future research directions, providing a reference for computer vision researchers and engineers.
A Digital Twin-Based Approach for the Optimization of Floor-Ball Manufacturing
Authors: Gutmann Tobias , Nyffenegger Felix , Pellegrini Marco , Cabrucci Alessandro , Guzzini Alessandro
Published: December 2023

The increasing complexity of products and manufacturing processes, combined with the constantly advancing technological integration of the manufacturing sector, raised new challenges for world-class industries to optimize time-to-market, resources, and cost. Simulation, as an essential Industry 4.0 enabling technology, allows one to emulate the steps of a manufacturing process, thereby achieving significant improvements in all the product and process development phases. A simulation process can be implemented and improved by creating the Digital Twin of the manufacturing system, which can be realized on a single-line scale or extended to the whole factory. The Digital Twin merges physics-based system modeling and real-time process data to generate a virtual copy of an observable object to reduce and optimize the extensive time and cost of physical design, prototyping, commissioning, reconfiguration, and maintenance. This study aims to investigate how the implementation of digital twin technology can help optimize the balance between power consumption and productivity, taking into account existing barriers and limitations. By following this outline, this study shows the design and development of a digital twin for a floor-ball manufacturing line present in the Smart Factory of Ostschweizer Fachhochschule (Switzerland). The entire production process is reproduced with Siemens Technomatix Plant Simulation software 2201, and data connection and processing are handled by a tailored toolchain consisting of an agent, a database, Python packages, and the COM interface from Tecnomatix. This toolchain feeds the digital twin with data from the physical operating environment. In particular, this study compares direct power measurements with the ones expected by the digital twin to assess digital model accuracy.
Experimental Investigation of a Low-Temperature Three-Circuit Cooling System for an Electric Motor under Varying Loads
Authors: Konovalov Dmytro , Tolstorebrov Ignat , Kobalava Halina , Lamb Jacob Joseph , Eikevik Trygve Magne
Published: December 2023

This study investigates a low-temperature three-circuit cooling system for a 55 kW industrial electric motor. The cooling system provides an increase of the power-to-dimension ratio by 63%, together with an improvement in motor performance. The three-circuit cooling system includes water cooling of the housing and stator and air-cooling of the motor’s interior. The test results show that the motor efficiency was maintained in the range between 92.5 and 94.5%, with respect to the motor’s power. With power increases up to 90 kW, a winding temperature of 67 °C was observed during three hours of operation. This advancement is particularly valuable for vehicles, ships, and aircraft applications, where maximizing power within limited space is crucial. An analysis of the experimental data showed that the cooling system operates at an average efficiency of 79.2%, indicating that roughly 20% of heat was accumulated in the rotor. This leads to a gradual temperature rise, particularly in the rotor, posing a risk of overheating and failure during motor overloads above 90 kW. Enhancing the cooling efficiency within the motor’s interior can be achieved by incorporating extra heat exchangers, implementing evaporative heat transfer, and employing water-cooling circuits at lower temperatures. This, in turn, can boost the electric motor’s power-to-dimension ratio.
The Impact of Dust Deposition on PV Panels’ Efficiency and Mitigation Solutions: Review Article
Authors: Nezamisavojbolaghi Mina , Davodian Erfan , Bouich Amal , Tlemçani Mouhaydine , Mesbahi Oumaima , Janeiro Fernando M.
Published: December 2023

Conversion efficiency, power production, and cost of PV panels’ energy are remarkably impacted by external factors including temperature, wind, humidity, dust aggregation, and induction characteristics of the PV system such as tilt angle, altitude, and orientation. One of the prominent elements affecting PV panel performance and capability is dust. Nonetheless, dust features including size, shape, type, etc. are geologically known. Several mitigation methods have been studied for the reduction of dust concentration on the exterior face of the PV modules. The outcomes have demonstrated that dust concentration and pollutants remarkably affect the PV panel energy production. This paper reviews the recently developed research on the outcomes of the dust effect on PV panels in different locations and meets the needs of future research on this subject. Moreover, different cleaning methods that could be advantageous for future researchers in opting for the most applicable technique for dust removal are reviewed.
Autonomous Wireless Power Transfer System with Constant Output Voltage in a Wide Load Range
Authors: Jiang Yanwei , Zhao Xiaoguang , Chen Dongliang , Shu Xujian , Zhou Yang
Published: December 2023

In this paper, an autonomous wireless power transfer (WPT) system with constant voltage output in a wide load range is presented. Here, combining self-oscillating control and phase-shift control, a new implementation of the autonomous WPT system is proposed. The proposed autonomous WPT system operates using a self-oscillating control method in the strong coupling region, which can automatically maintain the constant output voltage. In the weak coupling region, a phase-shift control method with a fixed frequency and a variable duty cycle is implemented, and a control strategy based on output voltage estimation is proposed to obtain the constant output voltage. In addition, according to the operating frequency characteristic of the proposed autonomous WPT system, a corresponding coupling region judgment method is presented to guarantee the realization of switching between the two control methods. An experimental prototype with a 24 V output voltage is constructed to validate the practicability of the proposed method. The experimental results show the proposed autonomous WPT system can obtain constant output voltage in a wide load range.
Epigenetic Mechanisms in Hematologic Aging and Premalignant Conditions
Authors: Yan Bowen , Yuan Qingchen , Guryanova Olga A.
Published: December 2023

Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) are essential for maintaining overall health by continuously generating blood cells throughout an individual’s lifespan. However, as individuals age, the hematopoietic system undergoes significant functional decline, rendering them more susceptible to age-related diseases. Growing research evidence has highlighted the critical role of epigenetic regulation in this age-associated decline. This review aims to provide an overview of the diverse epigenetic mechanisms involved in the regulation of normal HSCs during the aging process and their implications in aging-related diseases. Understanding the intricate interplay of epigenetic mechanisms that contribute to aging-related changes in the hematopoietic system holds great potential for the development of innovative strategies to delay the aging process. In fact, interventions targeting epigenetic modifications have shown promising outcomes in alleviating aging-related phenotypes and extending lifespan in various animal models. Small molecule-based therapies and reprogramming strategies enabling epigenetic rejuvenation have emerged as effective approaches for ameliorating or even reversing aging-related conditions. By acquiring a deeper understanding of these epigenetic mechanisms, it is anticipated that interventions can be devised to prevent or mitigate the rates of hematologic aging and associated diseases later in life. Ultimately, these advancements have the potential to improve overall health and enhance the quality of life in aging individuals.
A Survey on Blockchain-Based Federated Learning
Authors: Wu Lang , Ruan Weijian , Hu Jinhui , He Yaobin
Published: December 2023

Federated learning (FL) and blockchains exhibit significant commonality, complementarity, and alignment in various aspects, such as application domains, architectural features, and privacy protection mechanisms. In recent years, there have been notable advancements in combining these two technologies, particularly in data privacy protection, data sharing incentives, and computational performance. Although there are some surveys on blockchain-based federated learning (BFL), these surveys predominantly focus on the BFL framework and its classifications, yet lack in-depth analyses of the pivotal issues addressed by BFL. This work aims to assist researchers in understanding the latest research achievements and development directions in the integration of FL with blockchains. Firstly, we introduced the relevant research in FL and blockchain technology and highlighted the existing shortcomings of FL. Next, we conducted a comparative analysis of existing BFL frameworks, delving into the significant problems in the realm of FL that the combination of blockchain and FL addresses. Finally, we summarized the application prospects of BFL technology in various domains such as the Internet of Things, Industrial Internet of Things, Internet of Vehicles, and healthcare services, as well as the challenges that need to be addressed and future research directions.
Determination of Optimum Processing Condition of High Protein Laver Chip Using Air-Frying and Reaction Flavor Technologies
Authors: Jeong Gyeong-Tae , Lee Changheon , Cha Eunsong , Moon Seungmin , Cha Yong-Jun , Yu Daeung
Published: December 2023

This study aimed to develop a high-protein and gluten-free laver chip using air-frying and reaction flavor technologies via response surface methodology (RSM). The optimum processing condition (w/w) was determined with a batter composition of 20% dried laver, 21.3% hair tail surimi, and 58.7% rice flour. Additional ingredients included б-gluconolactone, NaHCO3, soybean oil, corn syrup, table salt, saccharin, and a mixture of distilled water and reaction flavor-inducing solution (RFIS). The laver pellet processed and dried (50 °C, 1–2 h) with air-frying (195 °C, 52.5 s) to process the laver chip. The values of brittleness and puffing ratio of the laver chip were 6.93 ± 0.33 N and 116.19 ± 0.48%, respectively, with an error within 10% of the predicted values of RSM. RFIS was prepared via RSM with the addition of precursor substances (w/v) of methionine 0.54%, threonine 3.30%, glycine 2.40%, glutamic acid 0.90%, and glucose 3% to distilled water and then heating reaction (121 °C, 90 min). The quantitatively descriptive analysis (QDA) of RFIS, baked potato-like and savory odor were 6.00 ± 0.78 and 4.00 ± 0.91, respectively, with an error within 10% of the predicted values. The laver chip exhibited high-protein (24.26 ± 0.10 g%) and low-calorie (371.56 kcal) contents.
Fractional Maclaurin-Type Inequalities for Multiplicatively Convex Functions
Authors: Merad Meriem , Meftah Badreddine , Moumen Abdelkader , Bouye Mohamed
Published: December 2023

This paper’s major goal is to prove some symmetrical Maclaurin-type integral inequalities inside the framework of multiplicative calculus. In order to accomplish this and after giving some basic tools, we have established a new integral identity. Based on this identity, some symmetrical Maclaurin-type inequalities have been constructed for functions whose multiplicative derivatives are bounded as well as convex. At the end, some applications to special means are provided.
Effects of Dextran on the Gel Properties of Faba Bean Protein Isolates Prepared Using Different Processes
Authors: Tang Huihua , Li Xinyi , Chen Junfei , Liu Biqin , Tang Rong , Chen Yuchun , Li Hong , Zou Ling , Shi Qiao
Published: December 2023

The properties of faba bean (Vicia faba L.) protein isolate (FPI) gels depend on their starting protein material and can be modulated by the addition of polysaccharides. In order to investigate the interplay between these two factors, commercial FPI (FPI1) and FPI prepared in-house (FPI2) were used to fabricate glucono-delta-lactone-induced gels, with or without dextran (DX) addition. FPI1 exhibited lower solubility in water and a larger mean particle size, likely because it experienced extensive degradation due to the intense conditions involved in its preparation. The FPI1 gel showed a similar water-holding capacity as the FPI2 gel; however, its hardness was lower and viscoelasticity was higher. After DX addition, the hardness of both FPI gels decreased, while their water-holding capacity increased. Interestingly, DX addition decreased the viscoelasticity of the FPI1 gel but enhanced the viscoelasticity of the FPI2 gel. The microstructural analysis demonstrated that the density of the aggregation network decreased in the FPI1 gel after DX addition but increased in the FPI2 gel. This was consistent with the changes observed in the dominant protein interaction forces in these gels after DX addition. Overall, these findings have the potential to guide ingredient selection for the tailored preparation of FPI gels.
Involuntary Treatment for Child and Adolescent Anorexia Nervosa—A Narrative Review and Possible Advances to Move Away from Coercion
Authors: Zielinski-Gussen Ingar M. , Herpertz-Dahlmann Beate , Dahmen Brigitte
Published: December 2023

Background: Children and adolescents with psychiatric disorders frequently experience hospital treatment as coercive. In particular, for patients with severe anorexia nervosa (AN), clinical and ethical challenges often arise if they do not voluntarily agree to hospital admission, often due to the ego-syntonic nature of the disorder. In these cases, involuntary treatment (IVT) might be life-saving. However, coercion can cause patients to experience excruciating feelings of pressure and guilt and might have long-term consequences. Methods: This narrative review aimed to summarize the current empirical findings regarding IVT for child and adolescent AN. Furthermore, it aimed to present alternative treatment programs to find a collaborative method of treatment for young AN patients and their families. Results: Empirical data on IVT show that even though no inferiority of IVT has been reported regarding treatment outcomes, involuntary hospital treatment takes longer, and IVT patients seem to struggle significantly more with weight restoration. We argue that more patient- and family-oriented treatment options, such as home treatment, might offer a promising approach to shorten or even avoid involuntary hospital admissions and further IVT. Different home treatment approaches, either aiming at preventing hospitalization or at shortening hospital stays, and the results of pilot studies are summarized in this article.
Description of Candida auris Occurrence in a Tertiary Health Institution in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alshahrani Fatimah S. , Elgujja Abba Amsami , Alsubaie Sara , Ezreqat Salah Ahmed , Albarraq Ahmed M. , Barry Mazin , Binkhamis Khalifa , Alabdan Lulwa
Published: December 2023

Background: Candida auris is an emerging multidrug-resistant fungal pathogen that represents a current serious threat to healthcare settings. Objective: The objective was to determine the prevalence of C. auris in a Riyadh hospital since its initial detection in late 2019. Methods: Using an adapted risk assessment tool, we reviewed the charts and medical files of all suspected and confirmed cases of C. auris infections reported at King Khalid University Hospital, Riyadh, between November 2019 and December 2022. Anonymized data were retrieved in a pre-established datasheet and analyzed to determine the epidemiological characteristics of C. auris infections in our facility. We analyzed prevalence by age, gender, risk factors, and according to sampling source. Results: Of the 53 confirmed C. auris-positive cases during the study period, 33 (62%) were males. Their ages ranged between 15 and 98, with most positive cases occurring in those aged 50 and above. Only one of the confirmed cases was hospital-acquired. All patients had at least one risk factor, and urine samples yielded the greatest number of positive cases, while admission to healthcare facilities constituted the highest risk in our study. Conclusion: Establishing a local prevalence pattern could serve as a baseline/benchmark to compare with regional and international benchmarks.
Assessing University Students’ Beliefs and Attitudes towards Sustainability and Sustainable Development: A Systematic Review
Authors: Concina Eleonora , Frate Sara
Published: December 2023

(1) Background: contents and strategies related to sustainability and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are being introduced in academic curricula, and the organization of the university environment is evolving to adopt sustainable practices. One of the main aims of this evolution is to raise students’ awareness of sustainability and to encourage them to develop attitudes, knowledge and competencies for acting as future responsible citizens. This implies the need to examine and understand students’ attitudes and beliefs towards sustainability. (2) Method: a systematic literature review has been performed to examine the most recent studies focused on university students’ beliefs and attitudes towards sustainable development. Three educational online databases were searched for identified research papers, and in the end, 20 papers have been included in the analysis. (3) Results: in recent years there has been a growing interest in the topic of university students’ assessment of sustainability beliefs and attitudes. Assessment was frequently limited to the environmental dimension of sustainability, placing the economic, social and educational dimensions in the background. Most of the assessing tools have been developed as quantitative questionnaires. (4) Conclusions: understanding the attitudes and perceptions of university students about sustainability issues is an essential task for helping higher education institutions to effectively infuse the contents and principles of sustainable development into their environments.
Chromatic Effects of Supplemental Light on the Fruit Quality of Strawberries
Authors: Tang Ni , Wang Jiyong , Zhang Baofeng , Chen Hao , Qiu Min
Published: December 2023

Supplemental light is widely applied in greenhouses to promote the production and flavor of strawberries in global markets. The present selections of colored lights are, however, quite empirical or qualitative, from the perspective of photometry or colorimetry, which lacks precision. The accurate control of chromatic parameters of supplemental light and their chromatic influences on fruit quality have been under-studied. In this study, color parameters including ten groups of correlated color temperatures (CCTs-2250 K, 2400 K, 2600 K, 2800 K, 3000 K, 3500 K, 4000 K, 4500 K, 5000 K, and 6000 K) and two groups of illuminances (600 lx and 1000 lx) of supplemental lights were precisely controlled using a digital color-coding method applied to LED supplemental lights, and the strawberry was irradiated with the LED supplemental light from December 2021 to March 2022 in facilities cultivation (greenhouse). Moreover, the irradiation time was 6 h per day (4:00 a.m.–7:00 a.m., 5:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.). We systematically investigated the chromatic effects of supplemental light on five parameters of strawberries: plant height, single weight, fruit hardness, soluble solids, and titratable acids. The results showed that the supplemental light generally lowered the single weight by 14% and fruit hardness by 6%, and increased plant height by 21%, the contents of soluble solids by 7.4%, and titratable acids by 27%. The chromatic dependences of the five parameters were different and might be strengthened, weakened, or shifted by light illuminance. Our results demonstrated the beneficial roles of supplemental light in accelerating maturation and enhancing the flavor of strawberries in greenhouse cultivation. These results provided valuable guidance for the effective cultivation of strawberries. Moreover, the controlling method for accurate colors was ready for the implementation of supplemental lights in other fruits or plants.
In-Situ Hydrogen Charging Effect on the Fracture Behaviour of 42CrMo4 Steel Submitted to Various Quenched and Tempering Heat Treatments
Authors: Imdad Atif , Varela Francisco Javier Belzunce
Published: December 2023

Research into safer, durable steels to be used in hydrogen-rich environments has been gaining importance in recent years. In this work, 42CrMo4 steel was subjected to quenched and tempered heat treatments using different temperature and time durations, in order to obtain different tempered martensite microstructures. Tensile tests on smooth and notched specimens were then performed in the air as well as with in situ electrochemical hydrogen charging using two different hydrogenated conditions. The harmful effects of hydrogen are more evident in tensile tests performed on notched specimens. The harder (stronger) the steel, the more hydrogen embrittlement occurs. As the steel’s internal local hydrogen concentration rises, its strength must be gradually reduced in order to choose the best steel. The observed embrittlement differences are explained by modifications in the operative failure micromechanisms. These change from ductile (microvoid coalescence) in the absence of hydrogen, or under low hydrogen levels in the case of the softest steels, to brittle (cleavage or even intergranular fracture) under the most severe conditions.
Exploring the Impact of Mining on Community Health and Health Service Delivery: Perceptions of Key Informants Involved in Gold Mining Communities in Burkina Faso
Authors: Himmelsbach Gianna S. , Zabré Hyacinthe R. , Leuenberger Andrea , Knoblauch Astrid M. , Brugger Fritz , Winkler Mirko S.
Published: December 2023

Sub-Saharan Africa is rich in natural resources but also faces widespread poverty. The United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals brought increased attention to resource extraction projects, emphasizing their development potential in extraction regions. While mining companies are required to conduct environmental impact assessments, their effect on the project-affected communities’ health mostly lacks systematic management, and their consideration of community perspectives is insufficient. Between March and May 2019, qualitative research was conducted at three industrial gold mines in Burkina Faso. Thirty-six participants, including community leaders, healthcare providers, and mining officials, were interviewed through key informant interviews about their perceptions on the impacts of mining operations on health, health determinants, and health service delivery. Disparities in perceptions were a key focus of the analysis. Mining officials reported mainly positive effects, while healthcare providers and community leaders described enhancing and adverse health impacts without clear trends observed regarding the extent of the impacts on health determinants. The perception of predominantly positive health impacts by mining officials represents a potential risk for insufficient acknowledgement of stakeholders’ concerns and mining-related effects on community health in affected populations. Overall, this study enhances comprehension of the complex interplay between mining operations and health, emphasizing the need for comprehensive assessments, stakeholder involvement, and sustainable practices to mitigate negative impacts and promote the well-being of mining communities.
Early-Life Exposure to Perfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) and Child Language and Communication Development: A Systematic Review
Authors: Stübner Charlotte , Nielsen Christel , Jakobsson Kristina , Gillberg Christopher , Miniscalco Carmela
Published: December 2023

Language development starts during the fetal period when the brain is sensitive to endocrine disruptions from environmental contaminants. This systematic review aims to systematically summarize the existing literature on early-life exposure to PFAS and children’s language and communication development, which is an indicator of neurocognitive development. A structured literature search was conducted using three databases, PubMed, Scopus, and CINAHL, last updated in April 2023. The population was defined as children and young adults. PFAS exposure was assessed pre- or postnatally. The outcome was defined as a language and communication ability assessed with validated instruments, parental self-reports, or clinical language disorder diagnoses. In total, 15 studies were identified for subsequent analyses. Thirteen were performed in background-exposed populations and two in highly exposed populations. There were some indications of potential adverse effects; however, these were not consistent across child sex, age of assessment, or PFAS exposure levels. No systematic effect of early-life PFAS exposure on language and communication development was found. These inconclusive findings may partly be explained by the use of general test instruments with limited validity as to children’s language and communication development. Further studies over a wider exposure range using specific language test instruments are needed.
Addressing the Knowledge Deficit in Hospital Bed Planning and Defining an Optimum Region for the Number of Different Types of Hospital Beds in an Effective Health Care System
Authors: Jones Rodney P.
Published: December 2023

Based upon 30-years of research by the author, a new approach to hospital bed planning and international benchmarking is proposed. The number of hospital beds per 1000 people is commonly used to compare international bed numbers. This method is flawed because it does not consider population age structure or the effect of nearness-to-death on hospital utilization. Deaths are also serving as a proxy for wider bed demand arising from undetected outbreaks of 3000 species of human pathogens. To remedy this problem, a new approach to bed modeling has been developed that plots beds per 1000 deaths against deaths per 1000 population. Lines of equivalence can be drawn on the plot to delineate countries with a higher or lower bed supply. This method is extended to attempt to define the optimum region for bed supply in an effective health care system. England is used as an example of a health system descending into operational chaos due to too few beds and manpower. The former Soviet bloc countries represent a health system overly dependent on hospital beds. Several countries also show evidence of overutilization of hospital beds. The new method is used to define a potential range for bed supply and manpower where the most effective health systems currently reside. The method is applied to total curative beds, medical beds, psychiatric beds, critical care, geriatric care, etc., and can also be used to compare different types of healthcare staff, i.e., nurses, physicians, and surgeons. Issues surrounding the optimum hospital size and the optimum average occupancy will also be discussed. The role of poor policy in the English NHS is used to show how the NHS has been led into a bed crisis. The method is also extended beyond international benchmarking to illustrate how it can be applied at a local or regional level in the process of long-term bed planning. Issues regarding the volatility in hospital admissions are also addressed to explain the need for surge capacity and why an adequate average bed occupancy margin is required for an optimally functioning hospital.
Hybrid Nanoparticle-Assisted Chemo-Photothermal Therapy and Photoacoustic Imaging in a Three-Dimensional Breast Cancer Cell Model
Authors: Carrese Barbara , Cavallini Chiara , Armanetti Paolo , Silvestri Brigida , Calì Gaetano , Luciani Giuseppina , Sanità Gennaro , Menichetti Luca , Lamberti Annalisa
Published: December 2023

Bioinspired nanoparticles have recently been gaining attention as promising multifunctional nanoplatforms for therapeutic applications in cancer, including breast cancer. Here, the efficiency of the chemo-photothermal and photoacoustic properties of hybrid albumin-modified nanoparticles (HSA-NPs) loaded with doxorubicin was evaluated in a three-dimensional breast cancer cell model. The HSA-NPs showed a higher uptake and deeper penetration into breast cancer spheroids than healthy breast cell 3D cultures. Confocal microscopy revealed that, in tumour spheroids incubated with doxorubicin-loaded NPs for 16 h, doxorubicin was mainly localised in the cytoplasm, while a strong signal was detectable at the nuclear level after 24 h, suggesting a time-dependent uptake. To evaluate the cytotoxicity of doxorubicin-loaded NPs, tumour spheroids were treated for up to 96 h with increasing concentrations of NPs, showing marked toxicity only at the highest concentration of doxorubicin. When doxorubicin administration was combined with laser photothermal irradiation, enhanced cytotoxicity was observed at lower concentrations and incubation times. Finally, the photoacoustic properties of doxorubicin-loaded NPs were evaluated in tumour spheroids, showing a detectable signal increasing with NP concentration. Overall, our data show that the combined effect of chemo-photothermal therapy results in a shorter exposure time to doxorubicin and a lower drug dose. Furthermore, owing to the photoacoustic properties of the NPs, this nanoplatform may represent a good candidate for theranostic applications.
Supramolecular Nature of Multicomponent Crystals Formed from 2,2′-Thiodiacetic Acid with 2,6-Diaminopurine or N9-(2-Hydroxyethyl)adenine
Authors: Belmont-Sánchez Jeannette Carolina , Choquesillo-Lazarte Duane , García-Rubiño María Eugenia , Matilla-Hernández Antonio , Niclós-Gutiérrez Juan , Castiñeiras Alfonso , Frontera Antonio
Published: December 2023

The synthesis and characterization of the multicomponent crystals formed by 2,2′-thiodiacetic acid (H2tda) and 2,6-diaminopurine (Hdap) or N9-(2-hydroxyethyl)adenine (9heade) are detailed in this report. These crystals exist in a salt rather than a co-crystal form, as confirmed by single crystal X-ray diffractometry, which reflects their ionic nature. This analysis confirmed proton transfer from the 2,2′-thiodiacetic acid to the basic groups of the coformers. The new multicomponent crystals have molecular formulas [(H9heade+)(Htda−)] 1 and [(H2dap+)2(tda2−)]·2H2O 2. These were also characterized using FTIR, 1H and 13C NMR and mass spectroscopies, elemental analysis, and thermogravimetric/differential scanning calorimetry (TG/DSC) analyses. In the crystal packing the ions interact with each other via O–H⋯N, O–H⋯O, N–H⋯O, and N–H⋯N hydrogen bonds, generating cyclic hydrogen-bonded motifs with graph-set notation of R22(16), R22(10), R32(10), R33(10), R22(9), R32(8), and R42(8), to form different supramolecular homo- and hetero-synthons. In addition, in the crystal packing of 2, pairs of diaminopurinium ions display a strong anti-parallel π,π-stacking interaction, characterized by short inter-centroids and interplanar distances (3.39 and 3.24 Å, respectively) and a fairly tight angle (17.5°). These assemblies were further analyzed energetically using DFT calculations, MEP surface analysis, and QTAIM characterization.
The Effect of Mice Adaptation Process on the Pathogenicity of Influenza A/South Africa/3626/2013 (H1N1)pdm09 Model Strain
Authors: Al Farroukh Mohammad , Kiseleva Irina , Stepanova Ekaterina , Bazhenova Ekaterina , Krutikova Elena , Tkachev Artem , Chistyakova Anna , Rekstin Andrey , Puchkova Ludmila , Rudenko Larisa
Published: December 2023

Influenza virus strain A/South Africa/3626/2013 (H1N1)pdm09 (SA-WT) is a non-mouse-adapted model strain that has naturally high pathogenic properties in mice. It has been suggested that the high pathogenicity of this strain for mice could be due to the three strain-specific substitutions in the polymerase complex (Q687R in PB1, N102T in PB2, and E358E/K heterogeneity in PB2). To evaluate the role of these replacements, SA-WT was passaged five times in mouse lungs, and the genome of the mouse-adapted version of the SA-WT strain (SA-M5) was sequenced. SA-M5 lost E358E/K heterogeneity and retained E358, which is the prevalent amino acid at this position among H1N1pdm09 strains. In addition, in the hemagglutinin of SA-M5, two heterogeneous substitutions (G155G/E and S190S/R) were identified. Both viruses, SA-M5 and SA-WT, were compared for their toxicity, ability to replicate, pathogenicity, and immunogenicity in mice. In mice infected with SA-M5 or SA-WT strains, toxicity, virus titer in pulmonary homogenates, and mouse survival did not differ significantly. In contrast, an increase in the immunogenicity of SA-M5 compared to SA-WT was observed. This increase could be due to the substitutions G155G/E and S190S/R in the HA of SA-M5. The prospects for using SA-M5 in studying the immunogenicity mechanisms were also discussed.
Preclinical Evaluation of a Novel High-Affinity Radioligand [99mTc]Tc-BQ0413 Targeting Prostate-Specific Membrane Antigen (PSMA)
Authors: Bezverkhniaia Ekaterina , Kanellopoulos Panagiotis , Abouzayed Ayman , Larkina Mariia , Oroujeni Maryam , Vorobyeva Anzhelika , Rosenström Ulrika , Tolmachev Vladimir , Orlova Anna
Published: December 2023

Radionuclide imaging using radiolabeled inhibitors of prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) can be used for the staging of prostate cancer. Previously, we optimized the Glu-urea-Lys binding moiety using a linker structure containing 2-napththyl-L-alanine and L-tyrosine. We have now designed a molecule that contains mercaptoacetyl–triglutamate chelator for labeling with Tc-99m (designated as BQ0413). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the imaging properties of [99mTc]Tc-BQ0413. PSMA-transfected PC3-pip cells were used to evaluate the specificity and affinity of [99mTc]Tc-BQ0413 binding in vitro. PC3-pip tumor-bearing BALB/C nu/nu mice were used as an in vivo model. [99mTc]Tc-BQ0413 bound specifically to PC3-pip cells with an affinity of 33 ± 15 pM. In tumor-bearing mice, the tumor uptake of [99mTc]Tc-BQ0413 (38 ± 6 %IA/g in PC3-pip 3 h after the injection of 40 pmol) was dependent on PSMA expression (3 ± 2 %IA/g and 0.9 ± 0.3 %IA/g in PSMA-negative PC-3 and SKOV-3 tumors, respectively). We show that both unlabeled BQ0413 and the commonly used binder PSMA-11 enable the blocking of [99mTc]Tc-BQ0413 uptake in normal PSMA-expressing tissues without blocking the uptake in tumors. This resulted in an appreciable increase in tumor-to-organ ratios. At the same injected mass (5 nmol), the use of BQ0413 was more efficient in suppressing renal uptake than the use of PSMA-11. In conclusion, [99mTc]Tc-BQ0413 is a promising probe for the visualization of PSMA-positive lesions using single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT).
The Upstream 1350~1250 Nucleotide Sequences of the Human ENDOU-1 Gene Contain Critical Cis-Elements Responsible for Upregulating Its Transcription during ER Stress
Authors: Lee Hung-Chieh , Chao Hsuan-Te , Lee Selina Yi-Hsuan , Lin Cheng-Yung , Tsai Huai-Jen
Published: December 2023

ENDOU-1 encodes an endoribonuclease that overcomes the inhibitory upstream open reading frame (uORF)-trap at 5′-untranslated region (UTR) of the CHOP transcript, allowing the downstream coding sequence of CHOP be translated during endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. However, transcriptional control of ENDOU-1 remains enigmatic. To address this, we cloned an upstream 2.1 kb (−2055~+77 bp) of human ENDOU-1 (pE2.1p) fused with reporter luciferase (luc) cDNA. The promoter strength driven by pE2.1p was significantly upregulated in both pE2.1p-transfected cells and pE2.1p-injected zebrafish embryos treated with stress inducers. Comparing the luc activities driven by pE2.1p and −1125~+77 (pE1.2p) segments, we revealed that cis-elements located at the −2055~−1125 segment might play a critical role in ENDOU-1 upregulation during ER stress. Since bioinformatics analysis predicted many cis-elements clustered at the −1850~−1250, we further deconstructed this segment to generate pE2.1p-based derivatives lacking −1850~−1750, −1749~−1650, −1649~−1486, −1485~−1350 or −1350~−1250 segments. Quantification of promoter activities driven by these five internal deletion plasmids suggested a repressor binding element within the −1649~−1486 and an activator binding element within the −1350~−1250. Since luc activities driven by the −1649~−1486 were not significantly different between normal and stress conditions, we herein propose that the stress-inducible activator bound at the −1350~−1250 segment makes a major contribution to the increased expression of human ENDOU-1 upon ER stresses.
Recent Updates on the Therapeutic Prospects of Reversion-Inducing Cysteine-Rich Protein with Kazal Motifs (RECK) in Liver Injuries
Authors: Palladini Giuseppina , Di Pasqua Laura Giuseppina , Croce Anna Cleta , Ferrigno Andrea , Vairetti Mariapia
Published: December 2023

The reversion-inducing cysteine-rich protein with Kazal motifs (RECK), a membrane-anchored glycoprotein, negatively regulates various membrane proteins involved in the tissue governing extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling such as metalloproteases (MMPs) and the sheddases ADAM10 and ADAM17. The significance of the present review is to summarize the current understanding of the pathophysiological role of RECK, a newly discovered signaling pathway associated with different liver injuries. Specifically, this review analyzes published data on the downregulation of RECK expression in hepatic ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury, liver-related cancers, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), as well as in the progression of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). In addition, this review discusses the regulation of RECK by inducers, such as FXR agonists. The RECK protein has also been suggested as a potential diagnostic and prognostic marker for liver injury or as a biomarker with predictive value for drug treatment efficacy.
Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Analysis of the SWEET Gene Family in Capsicum annuum L.
Authors: Han Xiaowen , Han Shuo , Zhu Yongxing , Liu Yiqing , Gao Shenghua , Yin Junliang , Wang Fei , Yao Minghua
Published: December 2023

Sugars will eventually be exported transporters (SWEETs) are a novel class of sugar transport proteins that play a crucial role in plant growth, development, and response to stress. However, there is a lack of systematic research on SWEETs in Capsicum annuum L. In this study, 33 CaSWEET genes were identified through bioinformatics analysis. The Ka/Ks analysis indicated that SWEET genes are highly conserved not only among peppers but also among Solanaceae species and have experienced strong purifying selection during evolution. The Cis-elements analysis showed that the light-responsive element, abscisic-acid-responsive element, jasmonic-acid-responsive element, and anaerobic-induction-responsive element are widely distributed in the promoter regions of CaSWEETs. The expression pattern analysis revealed that CaSWEETs exhibit tissue specificity and are widely involved in pepper growth, development, and stress responses. The post-transcription regulation analysis revealed that 20 pepper miRNAs target and regulate 16 CaSWEETs through cleavage and translation inhibition mechanisms. The pathogen inoculation assay showed that CaSWEET16 and CaSWEET22 function as susceptibility genes, as the overexpression of these genes promotes the colonization of pathogens, whereas CaSWEET31 functions as a resistance gene. In conclusion, through systematic identification and characteristic analysis, a comprehensive understanding of CaSWEET was obtained, which lays the foundation for further studies on the biological functions of SWEET genes.