bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multi-Adjacent Camera-Based Dangerous Driving Trajectory Recognition for Ultra-Long Highways
Authors: Zhao Liguo , Fu Zhipeng , Yang Jingwen , Zhao Ziqiao , Wang Ping
Published: May 2024

Fast detection of the trajectory is the key point to improve the further emergency proposal. Especially for ultra-long highway, prompt detection is labor-intensive. However, automatic detection relies on the accuracy and speed of vehicle detection, and tracking. In multi-camera surveillance system for ultra-long highways, it is often difficult to capture the same vehicle without intervals, which makes vehicle re-recognition crucial as well. In this paper, we present a framework that includes vehicle detection and tracking using improved DeepSORT, vehicle re-identification, feature extraction based on trajectory rules, and behavior recognition based on trajectory analysis. In particular, we design a network architecture based on DeepSORT with YOLOv5s to address the need for real-time vehicle detection and tracking in real-world traffic management. We further design an attribute recognition module to generate matching individuality attributes for vehicles to improve vehicle re-identification performance under multiple neighboring cameras. Besides, the use of bidirectional LSTM improves the accuracy of trajectory prediction, demonstrating its robustness to noise and fluctuations. The proposed model has a high advantage from the cumulative matching characteristic (CMC) curve shown and even improves above 15.38% compared to other state-of-the-art methods. The model developed on the local highway vehicle dataset is comprehensively evaluated, including abnormal trajectory recognition, lane change detection, and speed anomaly recognition. Experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method in accurately identifying various vehicle behaviors, including lane changes, stops, and even other dangerous driving behavior.
Investigation of Earthquake-Induced Pipe Damage in Liquefiable Soils
Authors: Dulger Munire , Kilic Havvanur
Published: May 2024

Liquefaction occurs in saturated sandy and silty soils due to transient and repetitive seismic loads. The result is a loss of soil strength caused by increased pore pressure. In this study, the response of buried pipes in the Iskenderun region during the earthquakes centered in the subprovinces of Pazarcık and Elbistan in Kahramanmaraş, Turkey, on 6 February 2023, has been investigated utilizing numerical analyses using geological data from two different areas. The effects of shallow and deep rock layers, pipe diameter, burial depths, and boundary conditions have been evaluated. In the analyses, records from two stations located in Iskenderun during the Pazarcık, Kahramanmaraş earthquake have been utilized, taking into account records from shallow rock (station no. 3116) and thick soil layers (station no. 3115), as determined from shear wave velocities. Modeling conducted using station 3116 records has revealed the effect of shallow rock layers on pipe displacement, indicating less damage in areas where the rock layer is close to the surface. The pipe uplift risk is higher when the bedrock is deep, and the overlying soil layer is liquefiable (station no. 3115). It has been determined that depth to bedrock significantly influences upward movement of the pipe. In the areas where the bedrock is deep, expanding the boundary conditions has helped reduce the effects of settlements outside the pipe, preventing the occurrence of pipe uplift. Increasing the pipe diameter has increased the amount of uplift. The analysis results are consistent with field observations.
Current Progress Regarding Cordyceps militaris, Its Metabolite Function, and Its Production
Authors: Chou Yu-Chieh , Sung Ting-Hsuan , Hou Shi-Jing , Khumsupan Darin , Santoso Shella Permatasari , Cheng Kuan-Chen , Lin Shin-Ping
Published: May 2024

Cordyceps militaris is a valuable medicinal fungus which has been widely used as a traditional medicine in East Asia. Compared to the well-known medicinal fungus C. sinensis, C. militaris can produce similar fermented metabolites with various biological activities, but it requires a shorter culture time and simpler culture conditions, and therefore, it has attracted increasing attention in recent years. The purpose of this review was to organize the current studies regarding metabolite production from C. militaris relative to their biological functions. We combined findings of metabolite production to correlate with different fermentation modes to obtain a full view of production processes used to yield the product. While research on C. militaris fermentation is not uncommon to date, its high value still highlights the importance of developing more modern fermentation processes for industrial production.
Heatwaves and Their Impact on Air Quality in Greater Cairo, Egypt
Authors: Mostafa Amira N. , Alfaro Stéphane C. , Robaa Sayed. M. , Zakey Ashraf S. , Abdel Wahab Mohamed M.
Published: May 2024

Several heatwaves (HWs) have been recorded in Egypt in recent years. Some of these HWs were mild, while others were severe and resulted in mortalities and morbidities. On the other hand, air pollution is considered a health issue in Egypt’s megacities, especially the capital city, Cairo, and its surroundings, the Greater Cairo (GC) region. In this study, we examine a number of HWs that have hit Egypt in recent years, along with the state of air quality, in terms of PM10, NO2, and O3, during the period of HW incidence, with a focus on the GC region. During the period of study, the frequency, intensity, and duration of HWs have been observed to increase. The total number of recorded HW events was 190, encompassing 376 HW days. The time series of daily mean NO2 showed no correlation with temperature during the months that experienced HWs cases. Conversely, PM10 and O3 concentrations exhibited a similar pattern as that of the daily maximum temperature. This increase in the two pollutant concentrations led to a degradation of the air quality, as demonstrated by the fact that the Air Quality Health Index went from “moderate risk”, on normal days, to “high risk” during the HWs.
Quantitative Analysis of Lithium-Ion Battery Eruption Behavior in Thermal Runaway
Authors: Xing Yu , Wei Ningning , Li Minghai
Published: May 2024

With the widespread adoption of battery technology in electric vehicles, there has been significant attention drawn to the increasing frequency of battery fire incidents. However, the jetting behavior and expansion force during the thermal runaway (TR) of batteries represent highly dynamic phenomena, which lack comprehensive quantitative description. This study addresses this gap by employing an enhanced experimental setup that synchronizes the video timing of cameras with a signal acquisition system, enabling the multidimensional quantification of signals, such as images, temperature, voltage, and pressure. It also provides a detailed description of the jetting behavior and expansion force characteristics over time for Li(Ni0.8Co0.1Mn0.1)O2 batteries undergoing thermal runaway in an open environment. The results from three experiments effectively identify key temporal features, including the timing of the initial jetting spark, maximum jetting velocity, jetting duration, explosion duration, and patterns of flame volume variation. This quantitative analytical approach proves effective across various battery types and conditions. The findings could offer scientific foundations and experimental strategies for parameter identification in fire prevention and thermal runaway model development.
Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cell Expression of Cation-Chloride Cotransporter (CCC) Genes in Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) across the Menstrual Cycle—A Preliminary Study
Authors: Cho Soojeong , Soumare Fatimata , Mumford Sunni L. , Rosas Paola C. , Abrieva Zarema , Davis John M. , Hamidovic Ajna
Published: May 2024

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a psychiatric condition characterized by debilitating affective symptomatology in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. Based on the previous reports that PMDD may be related to GABAergic cellular dysfunction(s), we assessed whether cation–chloride cotransporter (CCC) gene expression across the menstrual cycle is altered in PMDD. As there are limitations in accessing the human CNS to study CCC-encoding genes, we utilized peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) as an alternative model. We first sought to replicate previous reports characterizing CCC gene expression patterns in PBMCs of reproductive age women. We subsequently investigated potential distinct CCC mRNA expression patterns in women with PMDD. We collected blood samples across 8 menstrual cycle visits for PBMC separation/RNA extraction to study mRNA expression of four KCCs (KCC1, KCC2, KCC3, KCC4) and two NKCCs (NKCC1, NKCC2) cotransporters. We mostly replicated the earlier gene expression pattern findings, and found that the expression levels of KCC1 were significantly downregulated during the mid-follicular and periovulatory subphases of the menstrual cycle in women with PMDD. The present study shows that PBMCs is a valid model for studying GABAergic mechanisms underlying PMDD.
Disrupted Endoplasmic Reticulum Ca2+ Handling: A Harβinger of β-Cell Failure
Authors: Dobson Jordyn R. , Jacobson David A.
Published: May 2024

The β-cell workload increases in the setting of insulin resistance and reduced β-cell mass, which occurs in type 2 and type 1 diabetes, respectively. The prolonged elevation of insulin production and secretion during the pathogenesis of diabetes results in β-cell ER stress. The depletion of β-cell Ca2+ER during ER stress activates the unfolded protein response, leading to β-cell dysfunction. Ca2+ER is involved in many pathways that are critical to β-cell function, such as protein processing, tuning organelle and cytosolic Ca2+ handling, and modulating lipid homeostasis. Mutations that promote β-cell ER stress and deplete Ca2+ER stores are associated with or cause diabetes (e.g., mutations in ryanodine receptors and insulin). Thus, improving β-cell Ca2+ER handling and reducing ER stress under diabetogenic conditions could preserve β-cell function and delay or prevent the onset of diabetes. This review focuses on how mechanisms that control β-cell Ca2+ER are perturbed during the pathogenesis of diabetes and contribute to β-cell failure.
Duckweed: Beyond an Efficient Plant Model System
Authors: Thingujam Doni , Pajerowska-Mukhtar Karolina M. , Mukhtar M. Shahid
Published: May 2024

Duckweed (Lemnaceae) rises as a crucial model system due to its unique characteristics and wide-ranging utility. The significance of physiological research and phytoremediation highlights the intricate potential of duckweed in the current era of plant biology. Special attention to duckweed has been brought due to its distinctive features of nutrient uptake, ion transport dynamics, detoxification, intricate signaling, and stress tolerance. In addition, duckweed can alleviate environmental pollutants and enhance sustainability by participating in bioremediation processes and wastewater treatment. Furthermore, insights into the genomic complexity of Lemnaceae species and the flourishing field of transgenic development highlight the opportunities for genetic manipulation and biotechnological innovations. Novel methods for the germplasm conservation of duckweed can be adopted to preserve genetic diversity for future research endeavors and breeding programs. This review centers around prospects in duckweed research promoting interdisciplinary collaborations and technological advancements to drive its full potential as a model organism.
Adenosine 5′-Monophosphate-to-Threonine Ratio Promotes Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms via Up-Regulation of HLA-DR on Natural Killer Cells: A Bidirectional Mendelian Randomized Analysis
Authors: Teng Fei , Tang Youyin , Lu Zhangyu , Chen Zheyu , Guo Qiang
Published: May 2024

Objective: Immune–metabolic interactions may have causal and therapeutic impacts on abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs). However, due to the lack of research on the relationship between immune–metabolic interactions and AAAs, further exploration of the mechanism faces challenges. Methods: A two-sample, two-step mediation analysis with Mendelian randomization (MR) based on genome-wide association studies (GWASs) was performed to determine the causal associations among blood immune cell signatures, metabolites, and AAAs. The stability, heterogeneity, and pleiotropy of the results were verified using a multivariate sensitivity analysis. Results: After multiple two-sample MRs using the AAA data from two large-scale GWAS databases, we determined that the human leukocyte antigen-DR (HLA-DR) levels on HLA-DR + natural killer (NK) cells (HLA-DR/NK) were associated with the causal effect of an AAA, with consistent results in the two databases (FinnGen: odds ratio (OR) = 1.054, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.003–1.067, p-value = 0.036; UK Biobank: OR = 1.149, 95% CI: 1.046–1.261, p-value = 0.004). The metabolites associated with the risk of developing an AAA were enriched to find a specific metabolic model. We also found that the ratio of adenosine 5′-monophosphate (AMP) to threonine could act as a potential mediator between the HLA/NK and an AAA, with a direct effect (beta effect = 0.0496) and an indirect effect (beta effect = 0.0029). The mediation proportion was 5.56%. Conclusions: Our study found that an up-regulation of HLA-DR on HLA-DR/NK cells can increase the risk of an AAA via improvements in the AMP-to-threonine ratio, thus providing a potential new biomarker for the prediction and treatment of AAAs.
Stress and the CRH System, Norepinephrine, Depression, and Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Perrelli Michele , Goparaju Pruthvi , Postolache Teodor T. , del Bosque-Plata Laura , Gragnoli Claudia
Published: May 2024

Major depressive disorder (MDD) increases the risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D) by 60% in untreated patients, and hypercortisolism is common in MDD as well as in some patients with T2D. Patients with MDD, despite hypercortisolism, show inappropriately normal levels of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and plasma adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) in the cerebrospinal fluid, which might implicate impaired negative feedback. Also, a positive feedback loop of the CRH–norepinephrine (NE)–CRH system may be involved in the hypercortisolism of MDD and T2D. Dysfunctional CRH receptor 1 (CRHR1) and CRH receptor 2 (CRHR2), both of which are involved in glucose regulation, may explain hypercortisolism in MDD and T2D, at least in a subgroup of patients. CRHR1 increases glucose-stimulated insulin secretion. Dysfunctional CRHR1 variants can cause hypercortisolism, leading to serotonin dysfunction and depression, which can contribute to hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and increased visceral fat, all of which are characteristics of T2D. CRHR2 is implicated in glucose homeostasis through the regulation of insulin secretion and gastrointestinal functions, and it stimulates insulin sensitivity at the muscular level. A few studies show a correlation of the CRHR2 gene with depressive disorders. Based on our own research, we have found a linkage and association (i.e., linkage disequilibrium [LD]) of the genes CRHR1 and CRHR2 with MDD and T2D in families with T2D. The correlation of CRHR1 and CRHR2 with MDD appears stronger than that with T2D, and per our hypothesis, MDD may precede the onset of T2D. According to the findings of our analysis, CRHR1 and CRHR2 variants could modify the response to prolonged chronic stress and contribute to high levels of cortisol, increasing the risk of developing MDD, T2D, and the comorbidity MDD-T2D. We report here the potential links of the CRH system, NE, and their roles in MDD and T2D.
Evaluation of Different Decellularization Protocols for Obtaining and Characterizing Canine Cardiac Extracellular Matrix
Authors: da Silva Izabela Gabriela Rodrigues , Miglino Maria Angelica , de Souza Samara Silva , Buchaim Daniela Vieira , Buchaim Rogerio Leone
Published: May 2024

Cardiovascular diseases are considered the leading cause of mortality globally; even with low mortality in dogs, such diseases are described in the same way in companion animals and humans. This study aimed to devise an effective decellularization protocol for the canine myocardium through the association of physical, chemical, and enzymatic methods, assessing resultant alterations in the myocardial extracellular matrix to obtain a suitable scaffold. Two canine hearts were collected; the samples were sectioned into ±1 cm2 fragments, washed in distilled water and 1× PBS solution, and followed by treatment under four distinct decellularization protocols. Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate (SDS) 1% 7 days + Triton X-100 1% for 48 h (Protocol I); Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate (SDS) 1% 5 days + Triton X-100 1% for 48 h (Protocol II); Trypsin 0.05% for 1 h at 36 °C + freezing −80 °C overnight + Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate (SDS) 1% for 3 days, Triton-X-100 for 48 h hours (Protocol III); 0.05% trypsin for 1 h at 36 °C + freezing at −80 °C overnight + 1% Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate (SDS) for 2 days + 1% Triton-X-100 for 24 h (Protocol IV). After analysis, Protocols I and II showed the removal of cellular content and preservation of extracellular matrix (ECM) contents, unlike Protocols III and IV, which retracted the ECM and removed essential elements of the matrix. In theory, although Protocols I and II have similar results, Protocol II stands out for the preservation of the architecture and components of the extracellular matrix, along with reduced exposure time to reagents, making it the recommended protocol for the development of a canine myocardial scaffold.
Development of an Aptamer-Based QCM-D Biosensor for the Detection of Thrombin Using Supported Lipid Bilayers as Surface Functionalization
Authors: Görner Anne , Franz Leyla , Çanak-Ipek Tuba , Avci-Adali Meltem , Marel Anna-Kristina
Published: May 2024

Biosensors play an important role in numerous research fields. Quartz crystal microbalances with dissipation monitoring (QCM-Ds) are sensitive devices, and binding events can be observed in real-time. In combination with aptamers, they have great potential for selective and label-free detection of various targets. In this study, an alternative surface functionalization for a QCM-D-based aptasensor was developed, which mimics an artificial cell membrane and thus creates a physiologically close environment for the binding of the target to the sensor. Vesicle spreading was used to form a supported lipid bilayer (SLB) of 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-glycero-3-phosphocholine (POPC) and 1,2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphethanolamine-N-(cap biotinyl) (biotin-PE). The SLB was then coated with streptavidin followed by applying a biotinylated aptamer against thrombin. SLB formation was investigated in terms of temperature and composition. Temperatures of 25 °C and below led to incomplete SLB formation, whereas a full bilayer was built at higher temperatures. We observed only a small influence of the content of biotinylated lipids in the mixture on the further binding of streptavidin. The functionalization of the sensor surface with the thrombin aptamer and the subsequent thrombin binding were investigated at different concentrations. The sensor could be reconstituted by incubation with a 5 M urea solution, which resulted in the release of the thrombin from the sensor surface. Thereafter, it was possible to rebind thrombin. Thrombin in spiked samples of human serum was successfully detected. The developed system can be easily applied to other target analytes using the desired aptamers.
A Novel Fluorescence-Based Microplate Assay for High-Throughput Screening of hSULT1As Inhibitors
Authors: Niu Xiaoting , Fan Yufan , Zou Liwei , Ge Guangbo
Published: May 2024

Human sulfotransferase 1As (hSULT1As) play a crucial role in the metabolic clearance and detoxification of a diverse range of endogenous and exogenous substances, as well as in the bioactivation of some procarcinogens and promutagens. Pharmacological inhibiting hSULT1As activities may enhance the in vivo effects of most hSULT1As drug substrates and offer protective strategies against the hSULT1As-mediated bioactivation of procarcinogens. To date, a fluorescence-based high-throughput assay for the efficient screening of hSULT1As inhibitors has not yet been reported. In this work, a fluorogenic substrate (HN-241) for hSULT1As was developed through scaffold-seeking and structure-guided molecular optimization. Under physiological conditions, HN-241 could be readily sulfated by hSULT1As to form HN-241 sulfate, which emitted brightly fluorescent signals around 450 nm. HN-241 was then used for establishing a novel fluorescence-based microplate assay, which strongly facilitated the high-throughput screening of hSULT1As inhibitors. Following the screening of an in-house natural product library, several polyphenolic compounds were identified with anti-hSULT1As activity, while pectolinarigenin and hinokiflavone were identified as potent inhibitors against three hSULT1A isozymes. Collectively, a novel fluorescence-based microplate assay was developed for the high-throughput screening and characterization of hSULT1As inhibitors, which offered an efficient and facile approach for identifying potent hSULT1As inhibitors from compound libraries.
An In Vivo and In Silico Approach Reveals Possible Sodium Channel Nav1.2 Inhibitors from Ficus religiosa as a Novel Treatment for Epilepsy
Authors: Ashraf Aqsa , Ahmed Abrar , Juffer André H. , Carter Wayne G.
Published: May 2024

Epilepsy is a neurological disease that affects approximately 50 million people worldwide. Despite an existing abundance of antiepileptic drugs, lifelong disease treatment is often required but could be improved with alternative drugs that have fewer side effects. Given that epileptic seizures stem from abnormal neuronal discharges predominately modulated by the human sodium channel Nav1.2, the quest for novel and potent Nav1.2 blockers holds promise for epilepsy management. Herein, an in vivo approach was used to detect new antiepileptic compounds using the maximum electroshock test on mice. Pre-treatment of mice with extracts from the Ficus religiosa plant ameliorated the tonic hind limb extensor phase of induced convulsions. Subsequently, an in silico approach identified potential Nav1.2 blocking compounds from F. religiosa using a combination of computational techniques, including molecular docking, prime molecular mechanics/generalized Born surface area (MM/GBSA) analysis, and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation studies. The molecular docking and MM/GBSA analysis indicated that out of 82 compounds known to be present in F. religiosa, seven exhibited relatively strong binding affinities to Nav1.2 that ranged from −6.555 to −13.476 kcal/mol; similar or with higher affinity than phenytoin (−6.660 kcal/mol), a known Na+-channel blocking antiepileptic drug. Furthermore, MD simulations revealed that two compounds: 6-C-glucosyl-8-C-arabinosyl apigenin and pelargonidin-3-rhamnoside could form stable complexes with Nav1.2 at 300 K, indicating their potential as lead antiepileptic agents. In summary, the combination of in vivo and in silico approaches supports the potential of F. religiosa phytochemicals as natural antiepileptic therapeutic agents.
The Development of an Artificial Intelligence Video Analysis-Based Web Application to Diagnose Oropharyngeal Dysphagia: A Pilot Study
Authors: Jeong Chang-Won , Lee Chung-Sub , Lim Dong-Wook , Noh Si-Hyeong , Moon Hee-Kyung , Park Chul , Kim Min-Su
Published: May 2024

The gold standard test for diagnosing dysphagia is the videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS). However, the accuracy of this test varies depending on the specialist’s skill level. We proposed a VFSS-based artificial intelligence (AI) web application to diagnose dysphagia. Video from the VFSS consists of multiframe data that contain approximately 300 images. To label the data, the server separated them into frames during the upload and stored them as a video for analysis. Then, the separated data were loaded into a labeling tool to perform the labeling. The labeled file was downloaded, and an AI model was developed by training with You Only Look Once (YOLOv7). Using a utility called SplitFolders, the entire dataset was divided according to a ratio of training (70%), test (10%), and validation (20%). When a VFSS video file was uploaded to an application equipped with the developed AI model, it was automatically classified and labeled as oral, pharyngeal, or esophageal. The dysphagia of a person was categorized as either penetration or aspiration, and the final analyzed result was displayed to the viewer. The following labeling datasets were created for the AI learning: oral (n = 2355), pharyngeal (n = 2338), esophageal (n = 1480), penetration (n = 1856), and aspiration (n = 1320); the learning results of the YOLO model, which analyzed dysphagia using the dataset, were predicted with accuracies of 0.90, 0.82, 0.79, 0.92, and 0.96, respectively. This is expected to help clinicians more efficiently suggest the proper dietary options for patients with oropharyngeal dysphagia.
Low-Cost 3D Models for Cervical Spine Tumor Removal Training for Neurosurgery Residents
Authors: Sufianov Albert , Ovalle Carlos Salvador , Cruz Omar , Contreras Javier , Begagić Emir , Kannan Siddarth , Rosario Rosario Andreina , Chmutin Gennady , Askatovna Garifullina Nargiza , Lafuente Jesus , Sanchez Jose Soriano , Nurmukhametov Renat , Soto García Manuel Eduardo , Peev Nikolay , Pojskić Mirza , Reyes-Soto Gervith , Bozkurt Ismail , Encarnación Ramírez Manuel De Jesus
Published: May 2024

Background and Objectives: Spinal surgery, particularly for cervical pathologies such as myelopathy and radiculopathy, requires a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skill. The complexity of these conditions, often necessitating surgical intervention, underscores the need for intricate understanding and precision in execution. Advancements in neurosurgical training, especially with the use of low-cost 3D models for simulating cervical spine tumor removal, are revolutionizing this field. These models provide the realistic and hands-on experience crucial for mastering complex neurosurgical techniques, filling gaps left by traditional educational methods. Materials and Methods: This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of 3D-printed cervical vertebrae models in enhancing surgical skills, focusing on tumor removal, and involving 20 young neurosurgery residents. These models, featuring silicone materials to simulate the spinal cord and tumor tissues, provided a realistic training experience. The training protocol included a laminectomy, dural incision, and tumor resection, using a range of microsurgical tools, focusing on steps usually performed by senior surgeons. Results: The training program received high satisfaction rates, with 85% of participants extremely satisfied and 15% satisfied. The 3D models were deemed very realistic by 85% of participants, effectively replicating real-life scenarios. A total of 80% found that the simulated pathologies were varied and accurate, and 90% appreciated the models’ accurate tactile feedback. The training was extremely useful for 85% of the participants in developing surgical skills, with significant post-training confidence boosts and a strong willingness to recommend the program to peers. Conclusions: Continuing laboratory training for residents is crucial. Our model offers essential, accessible training for all hospitals, regardless of their resources, promising improved surgical quality and patient outcomes across various pathologies.
Subjective Cognitive Impairment Can Be Detected from the Decline of Complex Cognition: Findings from the Examination of Remedes 4 Alzheimer’s (R4Alz) Structural Validity
Authors: Poptsi Eleni , Moraitou Despina , Tsardoulias Emmanouil , Symeonidis Andreas L. , Tsolaki Magda
Published: May 2024

R4Alz is utilized for the early detection of minor neurocognitive disorders. It was designed to assess three main dimensions of cognitive-control abilities: working-memory capacity, attentional control, and executive functioning. Objectives: To reveal the cognitive-control dimensions that can differentiate between adults and older adults with healthy cognition, people with subjective cognitive impairment, and people diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment by examining the factorial structure of the R4Alz tool. Methods: The study comprised 404 participants: (a) healthy adults (n = 192), (b) healthy older adults (n = 29), (c) people with SCI (n = 74), and (d) people diagnosed with MCI (n = 109). The R4Alz battery was administered to all participants, including tests that assess short-term memory storage, information processing, information updating in working memory, and selective, sustained and divided attention), task/rule-switching, inhibitory control, and cognitive flexibility. Results: A two-factorial structural model was confirmed for R4Alz, with the first factor representing “fluid intelligence (FI)” and the second factor reflecting “executive functions (EF)”. Both FI and EFs discriminate among all groups. Conclusions: The R4Alz battery presents sound construct validity, evaluating abilities in FI and EF. Both abilities can differentiate very early cognitive impairment (SCI) from healthy cognitive aging and MCI.
Effectiveness of Problem-Solving Therapy in Improving Patient Mental Health, Function, Quality of Life, and Mortality Post-Stroke: A Systematic Review
Authors: Le Ha Thi , Honma Kenta , Annaka Hiroki , Sun Shunxiang , Nomura Tomonori
Published: May 2024

Problem-solving therapy (PST) is a potential psychological intervention aimed at preventing and treating psychological issues in stroke patients, although its efficacy is not clearly established. This systematic review assessed the effectiveness of PST in improving mental health, functioning, quality of life, and mortality in this population. Six databases were searched for literature indexed through March 2024, including the Cochrane Library, PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, NeuroBITE, and OTseeker. This review (CRD42023483757) followed the PRISMA guidelines and the Cochrane Library Handbook, utilizing the RoB 2 tool and GRADE system to assess the quality of the evidence. It included eight randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 1249 patients with stroke. Among them, five RCTs showed that PST might improve depression. Additionally, individual RCTs demonstrated the efficacy of PST in addressing patient anxiety, apathy, and coping. With respect to mental health, PST might affect patient quality of life and mortality. However, the results of four RCTs demonstrated no effect of PST on patient functioning. The quality of evidence for the outcomes ranged from very low to high. PST may improve mental health, quality of life, and mortality in patients with stroke.
Crafting a Job among Chinese Employees: The Role of Empowering Leadership and the Links to Work-Related Outcomes
Authors: Chen Mengyan , Zhang Yonghong , Xu Haoyang , Huang Xiting
Published: May 2024

The present study aims to examine the process through which empowering leadership shapes employees’ work engagement and in-role performance by facilitating job-crafting behaviors, specifically seeking resources, seeking challenges, and reducing demands. Based on the extensive data from 733 Chinese employees across various organizations located predominantly in Chongqing and Xi’an, China, we carried out different types of statistical analysis such as confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and structural equation modeling (SEM) to examine the relationships among empowering leadership, specific job-crafting behaviors, work engagement and in-role performance, test our hypothesis and our conceptual model. The results from structural equation modeling (SEM) suggested that empowering leadership was positively related to employees’ work engagement and in-role performance; empowering leadership was positively related to employees’ job crafting (seeking resources, seeking challenges and reducing demands); seeking resources, seeking challenges and reducing demands were positively related to in-role performance, and seeking challenges and reducing demands were positively related to work engagement. In the relationship between empowering leadership and in-role performance, seeking resources serves as a mediating factor. Similarly, seeking challenges mediates the association between empowering leadership and both work engagement and in-role performance. Furthermore, reducing demands mediates the links between empowering leadership and both work engagement and in-role performance. The implications of these findings are subsequently discussed.
How to Make an Internal Team Coach: An Integration of Research
Authors: Fernández Castillo Gabriela , Linhardt Rylee , Salas Eduardo
Published: May 2024

Team coaching has been found to increase group effort, improve interpersonal processes, and increase team knowledge and learning. However, the team coaching literature is renowned for its inability to define team coaching itself—making it difficult to solidify its place in the world of team science. So far, there is no consensus on what specific training would serve internal leaders best, and how they would connect to the team coaching literature. We know leadership and team training are effective in improving organizational outcomes, but the gap in the literature lies in identifying what specific competencies internal team coaches need, and what training could fulfill these. In this piece, we seek to (1) identify what competencies internal team leaders need based on the outcomes we know team coaching yields, (2) identify specific behaviors that can fulfill these competencies, and (3) integrate the literature to form an evidence-based guide on what training to provide to internal team coaches. By doing so, we hope to provide a definitive understanding of what internal team coaches need to be successful.
Bearing Capacity and Reinforced Mechanisms of Horizontal–Vertical Geogrid in Foundations: PFC3D Study
Authors: Wu Jinjun , Zhang Fabin , Gao Liang , Hou Juan
Published: May 2024

The study presents a novel meshed horizontal–vertical (H–V) geogrid, offering promising advancements in geotechnical structure performance. The study pioneers a modeling approach for H–V geogrid foundation bearing capacity with discrete element method, expanding understanding and optimizing design strategy. By analyzing the granular displacement, contact force distribution, and vertical stress distribution within the foundation system, the study examines the impact of burial depth, vertical element height, and the number of vertical elements on H–V reinforced foundations. The findings suggest that employing a burial depth equivalent to the width of the footing enhances bearing capacity compared to conventional geogrid applications, with depths set at 0.4 times the width of the footing. This enhancement is attributed to forming a deeper slip surface in H–V systems. Moreover, raising vertical elements to 0.6 times the width of the footing enhances bearing capacity with minimal increase in geogrid usage, indicating a strategic approach to reinforcement. Increasing the number of vertical elements, particularly with three pairs, significantly enhances bearing capacity by reinforcing lateral restraint on the soil and promoting stress homogenization, thereby augmenting the “deep-footing” effect. The technical analysis underscores the efficacy of H–V geogrids in bolstering the bearing capacity of reinforced foundations, which is attributed to the robust grip and interlocking mechanism facilitated by these geogrids’ vertical ribs and mesh structure, which augment lateral confinement and diminish horizontal soil displacement.
Risk Evaluation of Radioactive Concrete Structure Decommissioning in Nuclear Power Plants Using Fuzzy-AHP
Authors: Moon Hyosoo , Mirmotalebi Seyedali , Jang Youjin , Ahn Yonghan , Kwon Nahyun
Published: May 2024

Over 50% of nuclear power plants (NPPs) worldwide have operated for over three decades, leading to a surge in decommissioning projects. This study addresses the gap in current guidelines by analyzing risks in nuclear decommissioning. Using the fuzzy-AHP technique, tasks within dismantling radioactive concrete structures are prioritized. Findings reveal structural and human-related risks across five main cutting tasks. Collision emerges as a significant concern, particularly during wire saw installation and concrete block hoisting hole creation. Subcategory risk priorities highlight variations in risk across tasks, with jamming, falling, and falling objects identified as top concerns during wire saw transportation. This study emphasizes the importance of comprehensive risk assessment in enhancing safety during decommissioning. It underscores the need to consider both physical risks and risks to personnel throughout the process. By prioritizing safety, stakeholders can ensure worker safety and operational efficiency while minimizing hazards. This research contributes to standardized safety protocols for nuclear decommissioning worldwide, aligning with sustainable energy practices. The outcomes offer practical insights for safety manual development and decision-making processes. This study represents progress in ensuring safety during nuclear decommissioning, paving the way for further refinement of safety protocols and guidelines tailored to decommissioning sites.
Experimental and Three-Dimensional Numerical Investigations of Dehydration and Pyrolysis in Wood under Elevated and High Temperatures
Authors: Li Qianyi , Xu Biao , Chen Kaixi , Cui Zhaoyan , Liu Yan , Zhang Lingfeng
Published: May 2024

Thermal responses of wood significantly depend on the dehydration and pyrolysis processes. However, the dehydration and pyrolysis of wood are not well understood. In this study, the thermal model of wood, considering the temperature-dependent thermo-physical parameters, was presented. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) experiments were conducted on the Douglas fir wood with different moisture contents to validate the apparent specific heat capacity submodel. Subsequently, the thermal model was, respectively, implemented in the finite element software Abaqus 6.14 and finite volume software OpenFOAM 5.0 to simulate the three-dimensional temperature profiles within the wood. Dehydration experiment was conducted on the Douglas fir wood to verify the thermal model from room temperature to 200 °C. The thermal model was further validated by the full-scale fire experiment of the cross-laminated timber panel made of Spruce wood. It was found that both latent heat and pyrolysis heat have significant influence on the apparent specific heat capacity which further affected the thermal responses of wood. Moreover, the temperature is more sensitive to the latent heat than to the pyrolysis heat. The gas velocity is rather low in the dehydration and pyrolysis stages due to the low gas pressure. As a result, the gas convection seems to have very limited influence on the temperature progressions.
The Role of Spatial Layout in Shaping Value Perception and Customer Loyalty in Theme Hotels
Authors: Chang Tsen-Yao , Lin Yu-Cheng
Published: May 2024

Despite the acknowledged connection between physical environment and human behavior, the literature often underestimates the crucial role of hotel spatial layout and its relation to other factors in shaping customer loyalty. The layout of theme hotels is often simply considered a general environmental consideration, ignoring its far-reaching impact. This research proposes that guests staying at theme hotels will perceive value when utilizing the layout and appreciate all aspects of hotel facilities. This, in turn, influences their value perception and loyalty to the hotel. To analyze the data, confirmatory factor analysis and path analysis were employed on a sample of 298 individuals who stayed in theme hotels. The findings from these analyses reveal that both the hotel layout and the external environment positively influence guests’ evaluations of the internal environment (R2 = 0.640). Furthermore, the evaluation of the internal environment and layout significantly impacts guests’ perceived values (R2 = 0.517), subsequently shaping their loyalty to the hotel (R2 = 0.370). Perceived value emerges as a vital mediating factor between the layout and customer loyalty. This study presents compelling evidence that spatial layout significantly influences customer loyalty in theme hotels through perceived value, transcending internal and external environmental boundaries.
On a Composite Obtained by Thermolysis of Cu-Doped Glycine
Authors: Chamorro-Posada Pedro , Dante Roberto C. , Martín-Gil Jesús , Dante Denisse G. , Cioci Alma , Vázquez-Cabo José , Rubiños-López Óscar , Mediavilla-Martínez Irene , Martín-Ramos Pablo
Published: May 2024

Metal-doped carbonaceous materials have garnered significant attention in recent years due to their versatile applications in various fields, including catalysis, energy storage, environmental remediation, electronics, and sensors, as well as reinforcement. This study investigates the synthesis and characterization of a composite material featuring a carbonaceous matrix doped with copper, focusing on the thermolysis of glycine as a precursor. The synthesis methodology involved utilizing glycine and copper acetate monohydrate in varying ratios, with the mixture subjected to heating in ceramic crucibles at temperatures ranging from 450 to 550 °C, with pyrolysis yields over the 5 to 39% interval. The pristine and Cu-doped samples obtained at 500 °C underwent characterization using a diverse array of techniques, including scanning and transmission electron microscopies, multi-elemental analysis by energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, CHNS elemental analysis, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X-ray powder diffraction, infrared and Raman spectroscopies, ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, and terahertz time-domain spectroscopy, along with conductivity measurements. Under optimized conditions, copper (at 6.5%) was present primarily in the free metallic form, accompanied by traces of tenorite (CuO) and cuprite (Cu2O). The carbonaceous matrix exhibited a 6:1 ratio of graphitic carbon to a carbon-nitrogen compound with the formula C2H2N2O2, such as isomers of diazetidinedione, according to multi-elemental analysis results. Conductivity measurements disclosed a significant increase in conductivity compared to the product of glycine thermolysis, showcasing the enhanced electrical properties of the new composite. Additionally, terahertz measurements showed the potential of the material as a broadband absorber for the fabrication of terahertz devices and provided compelling evidence of a significant improvement in radiation absorption upon copper doping. In conclusion, this research sheds light on the promising properties of copper-doped carbonaceous composites obtained by glycine pyrolysis, offering insights into their potential applications in emerging technological domains.
Survival Analysis of Metastatic Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer Compared to Metastatic Average-Onset Colorectal Cancer: A SEER Database Analysis
Authors: Jeri-Yabar Antoine , Vittini-Hernandez Liliana , Prado-Nuñez Sebastian , Dharmapuri Sirish
Published: May 2024

Background: Early-onset colorectal cancer (EO-CRC) is defined as colorectal cancer diagnosed before the age of 50 years, and its incidence has been increasing over the last decade, now accounting for 10% of all new CRC diagnoses. Average-onset colorectal cancer (AO-CRC) has shown a steady decline in its incidence and related mortality over the past 20 years. The disparities in outcomes and overall survival (OS) between EO-CRC and AO-CRC are controversial. Our study compared OS and cause-specific survival (CSS) between metastatic EO-CRC (mEO-CRC) and metastatic AO-CRC (mAO-CRC) and identified the associated factors. Methods: Data on patient characteristics, tumor characteristics, incidence, and mortality were obtained from the SEER database from 2010 to 2020. We identified 23,278 individuals aged > 18 years with a confirmed diagnosis of all histological subtypes of metastatic CRC (M1 on TNM stage) using ICD-O-3 site codes. mEO-CRC and mAO-CRC were compared. OS distributions and CCS were analyzed using the Kaplan–Meier method and log-rank test to assess differences. A Cox regression model was used to assess the associations between variables. Results: mEO-CRC constituted 17.79% of the cases, whereas 82.21% had mAO-CRC. Most patients with mEO-CRC were 45–49 years old (47.66%), male (52.16%) and White (72.57%) and had adenocarcinoma histology (87.30%). Left colon tumors were most prevalent in both groups (40.26%) but were more prevalent in mEO-CRC patients than in mAO-CRC patients (49.63% vs. 38.23%, p < 0.001). Patients with mEO-CRC had higher OS (p < 0.001) and CSS (p < 0.001) than those with mAO-CRC. Patients with mEO-CRC also had significantly better median overall survival (30 months vs. 18 months, p < 0.001). The factors associated with worse OS included mAO-CRC (p < 0.001), mucinous adenocarcinoma (p < 0.001), male sex (p = 0.003), and a lack of surgical intervention (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Most patients with mEO-CRC fall within the range of 45 to 49 years of age. Patients with mEO-CRC were more likely to receive cancer-directed therapy (including chemotherapy and radiotherapy) and had better OS and CSS than those with mAO-CRC. This is likely attributable to the better performance status, fewer comorbidities, and better tolerance to cancer-directed therapy in mEO-CRC patients. The factors associated with worse OS and CSS were age > 50 years, mucinous adenocarcinoma, male sex, and no surgical treatment.
Discovery and Validation of Survival-Specific Genes in Papillary Renal Cell Carcinoma Using a Customized Next-Generation Sequencing Gene Panel
Authors: Hwang Jia , Bang Seokhwan , Choi Moon Hyung , Hong Sung-Hoo , Kim Sae Woong , Lee Hye Eun , Yang Ji Hoon , Park Un Sang , Choi Yeong Jin
Published: May 2024

Purpose: Papillary renal cell carcinoma (PRCC), the second most common kidney cancer, is morphologically, genetically, and molecularly heterogeneous with diverse clinical manifestations. Genetic variations of PRCC and their association with survival are not yet well-understood. This study aimed to identify and validate survival-specific genes in PRCC and explore their clinical utility. Materials and Methods: Using machine learning, 293 patients from the Cancer Genome Atlas-Kidney Renal Papillary Cell Carcinoma (TCGA-KIRP) database were analyzed to derive genes associated with survival. To validate these genes, DNAs were extracted from the tissues of 60 Korean PRCC patients. Next generation sequencing was conducted using a customized PRCC gene panel of 202 genes, including 171 survival-specific genes. Kaplan–Meier and Log-rank tests were used for survival analysis. Fisher’s exact test was performed to assess the clinical utility of variant genes. Results: A total of 40 survival-specific genes were identified in the TCGA-KIRP database through machine learning and statistical analysis. Of them, 10 (BAP1, BRAF, CFDP1, EGFR, ITM2B, JAK1, NODAL, PCSK2, SPATA13, and SYT5) were validated in the Korean-KIRP database. Among these survival gene signatures, three genes (BAP1, PCSK2, and SPATA13) showed survival specificity in both overall survival (OS) (p = 0.00004, p = 1.38 × 10−7, and p = 0.026, respectively) and disease-free survival (DFS) (p = 0.00002, p = 1.21 × 10−7, and p = 0.036, respectively). Notably, the PCSK2 mutation demonstrated survival specificity uniquely in both the TCGA-KIRP (OS: p = 0.010 and DFS: p = 0.301) and Korean-KIRP (OS: p = 1.38 × 10−7 and DFS: p = 1.21 × 10−7) databases. Conclusions: We discovered and verified genes specific for the survival of PRCC patients in the TCGA-KIRP and Korean-KIRP databases. The survival gene signature, including PCSK2 commonly obtained from the 40 gene signature of TCGA and the 10 gene signature of the Korean database, is expected to provide insight into predicting the survival of PRCC patients and developing new treatment.