bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Education and Training Needs of Health Care Professionals in the Philippines Encountering Patients with Lung Oligometastatic Cancers
Authors: Valmonte Daphne J. , Quartey Naa Kwarley , Gutierrez Fatima , Mendoza Janel , Papadakos Janet , Giuliani Meredith
Published: December 2024

This study aimed to examine the education and training needs of health care practitioners (HCPs) in the Philippines who encounter lung oligometastatic cancer patients. Lung oligometastatic disease is among the most common sites for cancer spread and has the most established practices for treating oligometastases. A modified version of the Hennessy–Hicks Training Needs Assessment Questionnaire was administered online to HCPs working in private and public centers in the Philippines. HCPs were recruited via purposive sampling. Twenty-seven HCPs completed the questionnaire (47% response rate). Respondents were mostly female (59%) and between the ages of 30 and 39 years (70%). Three-quarters (74%) were consultants, and most respondents were radiation oncologists (44%) or medical oncologists (30%). Medical oncologists rated Management/Supervisory Tasks (mean = 1.42) as their highest area of training need while radiation oncologists rated Clinical Tasks (mean = 1.30) as their highest training need. Pulmonologists (mean = 0.60) and other specialists (mean = 1.00) rated Administration tasks as their top area of training need. The clinical task-related category was rated the highest need among the continuing medical education topics. This study provides valuable insights for the implementation and advancement of a comprehensive curriculum in clinical oncology, specifically designed to enhance the administrative, clinical, and research capacities of oncologists who encounter oligometastatic lung disease in the Philippines.
Mammographic Vascular Microcalcifications as a Surrogate Parameter for Coronary Heart Disease: Correlation to Cardiac Computer Tomography and Proposal of a Classification Score
Authors: Saenger Jonathan Andreas , Uenal Ela , Mann Eugen , Winnik Stephan , Eriksson Urs , Boss Andreas
Published: December 2024

Objective: This study develops a BI-RADS-like scoring system for vascular microcalcifications in mammographies, correlating breast arterial calcification (BAC) in a mammography with coronary artery calcification (CAC), and specifying differences between microcalcifications caused by BAC and microcalcifications potentially associated with malignant disease. Materials and Methods: This retrospective single-center cohort study evaluated 124 consecutive female patients (with a median age of 57 years). The presence of CAC was evaluated based on the Agatston score obtained from non-enhanced coronary computed tomography, and the calcifications detected in the mammography were graded on a four-point Likert scale, with the following criteria: (1) no visible or sporadically scattered microcalcifications, (2) suspicious microcalcification not distinguishable from breast arterial calcification, (3) minor breast artery calcifications, and (4) major breast artery calcifications. Inter-rater agreement was assessed in three readers using the Fleiss’ kappa, and the correlation between CAC and BAC was evaluated using the Spearman’s rank-order and by the calculation of sensitivity/specificity. Results: The reliability of the visual classification of BAC was high, with an overall Fleiss’ kappa for inter-rater agreement of 0.76 (ranging between 0.62 and 0.89 depending on the score). In 15.1% of patients, a BAC score of two was assigned indicating calcifications indistinguishable regarding vascular or malignant origin. In 17.7% of patients, minor or major breast artery calcifications were found (BAC 3–4). BAC was more prevalent among the patients with CAC (p < 0.001), and the severity of CAC increased with the BAC score; in the group with a BAC score of one, 15% of patients exhibited mild and severe CAC, in those with a BAC of two, this was 31%, in those with BAC of three, this was 38%, and in those with a BAC of four, this was 44%. The sensitivity for detecting CAC, based on the mammographic BAC score, was 30.3% at a specificity of 96.7%. Conclusions: The standardized visual grading of BAC in mammographies on a four-point scale is feasible with substantial interobserver agreement, potentially improving the treatment of patients with suspicious microcalcifications and CAC.
Prevention of Bacterial Infection in Biliary and Pancreatic Endoscopy—A Review
Authors: Kowalski Michał , Przybyłkowski Adam
Published: December 2024

Background: Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a key therapeutic procedure in diseases of the pancreas or bile ducts. The understanding and effective management of the risks associated with the procedure, especially in the context of possible infectious complications, is crucial for patients’ safety. The aim of this review was to analyze the results of studies on antibiotic prophylaxis for infectious complications of ERCP, pancreatoscopy, and cholangioscopy. Methods: This study is a review of the articles available in PubMed, Medline, and Embase published in the last 30 years. Results: Nineteen studies and six sets of guidelines on antibiotic prophylaxis before ERCP were retrieved. Conclusions: Based on the available studies and recommendations, it can be concluded that antibiotic prophylaxis before ERCP is beneficial for immunocompromised patients or those at risk of bacterial endocarditis. In other groups of patients, antibiotic prophylaxis reduces the risk post-ERCP bacteremia but does not significantly reduce the risk of cholangitis and infectious complications. The effectiveness of antibiotic prophylaxis in patients at risk of incomplete biliary drainage needs to be verified in further studies.
Relationship Between Serum Myostatin and Endothelial Function in Non-Dialysis Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Chang Ho-Hsiang , Wang Chih-Hsien , Lin Yu-Li , Kuo Chiu-Huang , Liou Hung-Hsiang , Hsu Bang-Gee
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Myostatin, primarily produced by skeletal muscle, inhibits muscle growth and promotes protein degradation. It has been implicated in conditions such as obesity, insulin resistance, and cardiovascular disease. However, its association with endothelial function in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between serum myostatin levels and endothelial function in 136 non-dialysis CKD patients at stages 3–5. Methods: Fasting blood samples were collected to measure serum myostatin levels using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits. Endothelial function was evaluated non-invasively by measuring the vascular reactivity index (VRI) with a digital thermal monitoring test. Results: VRI values were classified as poor (<1.0, n = 25, 18.4%), intermediate (1.0 to <2.0, n = 63, 46.3%), or good (≥2.0, n = 48, 35.3%). Factors associated with poor vascular reactivity included older age (p = 0.026), elevated serum blood urea nitrogen (p = 0.020), serum creatinine (p = 0.021), urine protein-to-creatinine ratio (UPCR, p = 0.013), and myostatin levels (p = 0.003), along with reduced estimated glomerular filtration rate (p = 0.015). Multivariate regression analysis identified older age, higher serum creatinine, and log-transformed myostatin levels as significant independent predictors of lower VRI. Conclusions: These findings suggest that myostatin may serve as a potential biomarker for endothelial dysfunction in CKD patients. Future large-scale, longitudinal studies are warranted to confirm and extend our preliminary findings.
Clinical and Radiographic Parameters for Early Periodontitis Diagnosis: A Comparative Study
Authors: Fidyawati Desy , Masulili Sri Lelyati C. , Iskandar Hanna Bachtiar , Suhartanto Heru , Kiswanjaya Bramma , Li Xue
Published: December 2024

Background/Objective: Early periodontitis diagnosis is challenging due to varying staging and grading systems. While clinical parameters like bleeding on probing (BoP) and pocket depth (PD) are commonly used, periapical radiographs provide valuable information about bone loss and periodontal ligament changes. However, a clear definition of early periodontitis, particularly regarding alveolar bone crest changes, remains elusive. Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 21 participants aged 20–30 with clinical signs of periodontitis and radiographic evidence of alveolar bone changes and periodontal ligament widening. Four dentists assessed 40 cases for BoP, 40 for PD, and 40 for periapical radiographs. Results: Statistical analysis revealed that the pocket depth measurement was the most significant factor in diagnosing early periodontitis (Fisher’s exact test, p-value = 0.000). Additionally, the irregularity of the alveolar crest proved to be a significant marker compared to periodontal ligament width (Fisher’s exact test, p-value = 0.000). A Kendall Tau_b test (p-value = 0.000, r = 1.000) confirmed pocket depth to be the most influential parameter among the assessed factors. Conclusions: While this study highlights the importance of clinical and radiographic assessments in early periodontitis detection, integrating these findings into a definitive diagnosis can be complex. The standardization of diagnostic techniques and the development of advanced radiographic interpretation methods are crucial to improve accuracy. Further research is needed to refine diagnostic criteria and explore additional tests for early periodontitis detection.
Education and Outreach Program Managers’ Approaches to Engaging with Engineering Students in Summer Research Programs in the U.S.
Authors: Bae Hwangbo , Men Jingyi , Mondisa Joi-Lynn
Published: December 2024

Program managers of undergraduate research experience programs play a pivotal role in students’ learning experiences. However, their roles in this program are seldom understood and explored. One reason is that a greater focus has been put on faculty and student mentorship. Although many faculty mentors succeed in providing students with adequate support for their learning experience, students can also benefit from having access to multiple mentors, such as program managers. In this study, we employed a qualitative approach to identify the common experiences of education and outreach program managers in managing engineering undergraduate summer research experience programs and mentoring students in the United States. The findings indicate that the participants provided career and technical support that contributed to students’ success by providing general guidance, professional development opportunities, and access to resources. Also, the participants engaged in active listening and training, and supported inclusive activities to promote students’ psychosocial support. From the findings, we provide recommendations for program managers and faculty members to help reinforce students’ learning in research programs.
Unsupervised Semantic Scene Reconstruction via Transformer-Based Quantized Vector Reconstruction and Autoregressive Completion
Authors: Miao Yubin , Xie Shuxin , Quan Tianrui , Wan Junkang , Hao Mengxiang
Published: December 2024

Semantic scene reconstruction from sparse and incomplete point clouds is a vital task in understanding point scenes. This task involves assigning semantic labels to objects and reconstructing their complete shapes as meshes. In recent years, researchers have adopted a “reconstruction from recognition” approach, which first segments foreground objects from the point cloud and then completes and reconstructs them as mesh representations. This method has successfully facilitated both the semantic and geometric understanding of point scenes. However, existing approaches based on deep learning often depend on supervised training, requiring extensive annotations and incurring high training costs. To address this limitation, we introduce unsupervised algorithms for completing and reconstructing partial observations. While Transformer-based autoregressive shape completion shows great potential, there has been limited research on applying it to complete instances segmented from real-world scenes. To bridge this gap, we propose VRC (unsupervised semantic scene reconstruction via Transformer-based quantized Vector Reconstruction and autoregressive Completion), a novel framework that integrates unsupervised algorithms with Transformer-based autoregressive completion. Our approach enables the unsupervised reconstruction of real-world scenes. Comparisons with state-of-the-art methods on authoritative public datasets demonstrate that VRC achieves superior reconstruction performance with significantly reduced data costs.
Analyzing Crowd Behavior in Highly Dense Crowd Videos Using 3D ConvNet and Multi-SVM
Authors: Elmezain Mahmoud , Maklad Ahmed S. , Alwateer Majed , Farsi Mohammed , Ibrahim Hani M.
Published: December 2024

Crowd behavior presents significant challenges due to intricate interactions. This research proposes an approach that combines the power of 3D Convolutional Neural Networks (ConvNet) and Multi-Support Vector Machines (Multi-SVM) to study and analyze crowd behavior in highly dense crowd videos. The proposed approach effectively utilizes the temporal information captured by the 3D ConvNet, which accounts for the spatiotemporal characteristics of crowd movement. By incorporating the third dimension as a temporal stack of images forming a clip, the network can learn and comprehend the dynamics and patterns of crowd behavior over time. In addition, the learned features from the 3D ConvNet are classified and interpreted using Multi-SVM, enabling a comprehensive analysis of crowd behavior. This methodology facilitates the identification and categorization of various crowd dynamics, including merging, diverging, and dense flows. To evaluate the effectiveness of the approach, experiments are conducted on the Crowd-11 dataset, which comprises over 6000 video sequences with an average length of 100 frames per sequence. The dataset defines a total of 11 crowd motion patterns. The experimental results demonstrate promising recognition rates and achieve an accuracy of 89.8%. These findings provide valuable insights into the complex dynamics of crowd behavior, with potential applications in crowd management.
Enhancing Group Consensus in Social Networks: A Two-Stage Dual-Fine Tuning Consensus Model Based on Adaptive Leiden Algorithm and Minority Opinion Management with Non-Cooperative Behaviors
Authors: Xu Tingyu , He Shiqi , Yuan Xuechan , Zhang Chao
Published: December 2024

The rapid growth of the digital economy has significantly enhanced the convenience of information transmission while reducing its costs. As a result, the participation in social networks (SNs) has surged, intensifying the mutual influence among network participants. To support objective decision-making and gather public opinions within SNs, the research on the consensus-reaching process (CRP) has become increasingly important. However, CRP faces three key challenges: first, as the number of decision-makers (DMs) increases, the efficiency of reaching consensus declines; second, minority opinions and non-cooperative behaviors affect decision outcomes; and third, the relationships among DMs complicate opinion adjustments. To address these challenges, this paper introduces an enhanced CRP mechanism. Initially, the hippopotamus optimization algorithm (HOA) is applied to update the initial community division in Leiden clustering, which accelerates the clustering process, collectively referred to as HOAL. Subsequently, a two-stage opinion adjustment method is proposed, combining minority opinion handling (MOH), non-cooperative behavior management, and dual-fine tuning (DFT) management, collectively referred to as DFT-MOH. Moreover, trust relationships between DMs are directly integrated into both the clustering and opinion management processes, resulting in the HOAL-DFT-MOH framework. The proposed method proceeds by three main steps: (1) First, the HOAL clusters DMs. (2) Then, in the initial CRP stage, DFT manages subgroup opinions with a weighted average to synthesize subgroup perspectives; and in the second stage, MOH addresses minority opinions, a non-cooperative mechanism manages uncooperative behaviors, and DFT is used when negative behaviors are absent. (3) Third, the prospect-regret theory is applied to rank decision alternatives. Finally, the approach is applied to case analyses across three different scenarios, while comparative experiments with other clustering and CRP methods highlight its superior performance.
Substation Abnormal Scene Recognition Based on Two-Stage Contrastive Learning
Authors: Liu Shanfeng , Su Haitao , Mao Wandeng , Li Miaomiao , Zhang Jun , Bao Hua
Published: December 2024

Substations are an important part of the power system, and the classification of abnormal substation scenes needs to be comprehensive and reliable. The abnormal scenes include multiple workpieces such as the main transformer body, insulators, dials, box doors, etc. In this research field, the scarcity of abnormal scene data in substations poses a significant challenge. To address this, we propose a few-show learning algorithm based on two-stage contrastive learning. In the first stage of model training, global and local contrastive learning losses are introduced, and images are transformed through extensive data augmentation to build a pre-trained model. On the basis of the built pre-trained model, the model is fine-tuned based on the contrast and classification losses of image pairs to identify the abnormal scene of the substation. By collecting abnormal substation images in real scenes, we create a few-shot learning dataset for abnormal substation scenes. Experimental results on the dataset demonstrate that our proposed method outperforms State-of-the-Art few-shot learning algorithms in classification accuracy.
Modern SCADA for CSP Systems Based on OPC UA, Wi-Fi Mesh Networks, and Open-Source Software
Authors: Carballo Jose Antonio , Bonilla Javier , Fernández-Reche Jesús , Avila-Marin Antonio Luis , Díaz Blas
Published: December 2024

This study presents a methodology for the development of modern Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems aimed at improving the operation and management of concentrated solar power (CSP) plants, leveraging the tools provided by industrial digitization. This approach is exemplified by its application to the CESA-I central tower heliostat field at the Plataforma Solar de Almería (PSA), one of the oldest CSP facilities in the world. The goal was to upgrade the control and monitoring capabilities of the heliostat field by integrating modern technologies such as OPC (Open Platform Communications)) Unified Architecture (UA), a Wi-Fi mesh communication network, and a custom Python-based gateway for interfacing with legacy MODBUS systems. Performance tests demonstrated stable, scalable communication, efficient real-time control, and seamless integration of new developments (smart heliostat) into the existing infrastructure. The SCADA system also introduced a user-friendly Python-based interface developed with PySide6, significantly enhancing operational efficiency and reducing task complexity for system operators. The results show that this low-cost methodology based on open-source software provides a flexible and robust SCADA architecture, suitable for future CSP applications, with potential for further optimization through the incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning.
Comparison Among Thermal Pre-Treatments’ Effectiveness in Increasing Anaerobic Digestibility of Organic Fraction in Municipal Solid Wastes
Authors: De Sanctis Marco , Altieri Valerio Guido , Barca Emanuele , di Bitonto Luigi , Tedeschi Francesco , Di Iaconi Claudio
Published: December 2024

The organic fraction of municipal solid waste (OFMSW) is widely recognized as a possible substrate for anaerobic digestion processes. However, the heterogeneity of this matrix and the presence of slowly biodegradable compounds can slow down anaerobic digestion and reduce its performance. This study compares the effectiveness of different thermal pre-treatments in increasing OFMSW anaerobic digestibility. Thermal pre-treatments were compared with OFMSW shredding, considered as the minimum pre-treatment required in order to reduce particles size of the OFMSW. The pre-treatments were performed in autoclave (121 °C and 1.4 bar for 20 min) or in an ad hoc hydrolysis reactor designed for the experimental trial (140 °C and 7 bar for 30 min) with air or nitrogen as gas phase. The thermal pre-treatments affected methane yield (NmLCH4/gVS), depending on the pre-treatment strategy, with autoclaving allowing for an 80% increase with respect to the control run, and leading to a methane yield of 476 ± 194 NmLCH4/gVS. The pre-treatments in the hydrolysis reactor caused a loss of organic matter (due to its volatilization) reducing the organic loading rate of the digester. Nevertheless, the digester performance in terms of COD (chemical oxygen demand) and VSS (volatile suspended solid) removal showed limited differences among the pre-treatments applied and ranged on average 79–94%.
Correction: Nie et al. Evaluation of the Factors Influencing Residual Oil Evolution after Alkali/Surfactant/Polymer Flooding in Daqing Oilfield. Energies 2022, 15, 1048
Authors: Nie Chunlin , Wu Xiaolin , Hou Zhaowei , Li Junjian , Jiang Hanqiao
Published: December 2024

In the original publication [...]
Transformer Fault Diagnosis Based on Multi-Strategy Enhanced Dung Beetle Algorithm and Optimized SVM
Authors: Zhang Shuming , Zhou Hong
Published: December 2024

Accurate fault diagnosis of transformers is crucial for preventing power system failures and ensuring the continued reliability of electrical grids. To address the challenge of low accuracy in transformer fault diagnosis using support vector machines (SVMs), an enhanced fault diagnosis model is proposed, which utilizes an improved dung beetle optimization algorithm (IDBO) to optimize an SVM. First, based on dissolved gas analysis (DGA), five characteristic quantities are selected as input features. Second, improvements to the DBO algorithm are made by incorporating Chebyshev chaotic mapping, a golden sine strategy, and dynamic weight coefficients for position updates. The performance of the IDBO is validated using four benchmark test functions, demonstrating faster convergence. Subsequently, the IDBO optimizes the SVM’s penalty factor C and kernel function parameter g, which are then input into the SVM for training, yielding an efficient fault diagnosis model. Finally, comparisons with other methods confirm the usefulness of the proposed model. Experimental results demonstrate that the IDBO–SVM model attains accuracy improvements of 1.69%, 8.47%, and 10.17% over dung beetle optimization–SVM (DBO–SVM), sparrow search algorithm–SVM (SSA–SVM), and grey wolf optimization–SVM (GWO–SVM) models, respectively. In addition to higher accuracy, the IDBO–SVM model also delivers a faster runtime, further highlighting its superior performance in transformer fault diagnosis. The proposed model has practical significance for enhancing the stability of transformer operation.
Fault Pinpointing in Underground Cables of Low-Voltage Distribution Networks with Inductive Wireless Power Transfer
Authors: Abd-Elaziz Amr A. , Khan Saad , Aboushady Ahmed A. , Farrag Mohamed E. , Merlin Michael M. C. , Finney Stephen , Abdel Maksoud Salah
Published: December 2024

This paper aims to propose inductive wireless power transfer (IWPT) technology for pinpointing fault locations in LV distribution underground cables following the use of other pre-location methods. The proposed device is portable, hence battery-powered, and operates by scanning for faults above ground via inductive coupling with the de-energized cable. This primarily relies on impedance changes in the cable due to permanent faults as the device scans the length of the cable. A detailed frequency domain mathematical model for the system is deduced and circuit design/parameters affecting the inductive coupling are investigated. An optimal design strategy for the portable device is demonstrated to achieve high fault-locating sensitivity with a minimum device VA rating. The device is tested under multiple fault scenarios (including shunt and open-circuit (cable break) faults) using a MATLAB/Simulink circuit model, and the results are validated against the mathematical model. The device’s performance with single-core and multi-core cables is examined. Finally, a critical comparative evaluation of the IWPT method with existing fault pinpointing techniques is conducted that highlights both the advantages and limitations of the proposed technique. The research shows that the proposed technology provides a promising new solution for LV network operators to minimize excavations for underground cable faults by pinpointing locations where a considerable deflection in induced cable current occurs when passing a fault point.
Intercropping Shapes the Metabolome and Microbiome of Medicinal Giant Lily (Cardiocrinum giganteum) in Bamboo, Chinese Fir, and Mixed Forests
Authors: Zhang Jie , Ning Yilin , Wu Haoyu , Gao Guibin , Wu Zhizhuang , Peng Yuwen , Huang Zhiyuan , Zhang Xiaoping
Published: December 2024

Intercropping is a promising strategy for sustainable medicinal plant cultivation, but its impact on plant–microbe interactions remains poorly understood. This study investigated the influence that intercropping giant lily (Cardiocrinum giganteum) with bamboo (BG), Chinese fir (FG), and mixed forests (MG) had on the giant lily metabolome and microbiome compared to a monoculture control (GG). Metabolomic analysis revealed that BG significantly increased the accumulation of terpenoids (e.g., yucalexin B22, 19.39-fold), alkaloids (e.g., anabasine, 2.97-fold), and steroids (e.g., O-acetyl-lariciresinol, 4.49-fold), while MG induced the production of stress-related metabolites (e.g., aflatoxin G2, 128.62-fold), and FG enhanced nitrogen metabolism (e.g., putrescine, 2.47-fold). Intercropping altered the rhizosphere and endophytic microbial communities, with BG enriching beneficial bacteria (e.g., Acidobacteria and Alphaproteobacteria) and FG promoting symbiotic fungi (e.g., Serendipita and Xylariales). Network analysis revealed strong correlations between specific microbial taxa (e.g., Bacillus and Ceratobasidiaceae) and key metabolites (e.g., norpandamarilactonine A, methylgingerol), indicating their potential roles in shaping the metabolic profiles of giant lily. These findings highlight the complex interplay between intercropping systems, microbial communities, and medicinal plant metabolism and provide a basis for developing targeted cultivation strategies to enhance the production of bioactive compounds in giant lily and other medicinal plants.
WiFi Fingerprint Indoor Localization Employing Adaboost and Probability-One Access Point Selection for Multi-Floor Campus Buildings
Authors: Jin Shanyu , Kim Dongwoo
Published: December 2024

Indoor positioning systems have become increasingly important due to the rapid expansion of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies, especially for providing precise location-based services in complex environments such as multi-floor campus buildings. This paper presents a WiFi fingerprint indoor localization system based on AdaBoost, combined with a new access point (AP) filtering technique. The system comprises offline and online phases. During the offline phase, a fingerprint database is created using received signal strength (RSS) values for two four-floor campus buildings. In the online phase, the AdaBoost classifier is used to accurately estimate locations. To improve localization accuracy, APs that always appear in the measurement data are selected for applying the AdaBoost algorithm, aiming to eliminate noise from the fingerprint database. The performance of the proposed method is compared with other well-known machine learning-based positioning algorithms in terms of positioning accuracy and error distances. The results indicate that the average positioning accuracy of the proposed scheme reaches 95.55%, which represents an improvement of 5.55% to 16.21% over the other methods. Additionally, the two-dimensional positioning error can be reduced to 0.25 m.
Mitigating Oxidative Stress and Promoting Cellular Longevity with Mushroom Extracts
Authors: Abdelkader Menna-Allah E. , Mediatrice Hatungimana , Lin Dongmei , Lin Zhanxi , Aggag Sarah A.
Published: December 2024

Oxidative stress can disrupt the body’s ability to fight harmful free radicals, leading to premature aging and various health complications. This study investigated the antioxidant and anti-aging properties of four medicinal and edible mushrooms: Ganoderma lucidum, Hericium erinaceus, Pleurotus ostreatus, and Agaricus bisporus. The antioxidant activity of mushroom extracts was evaluated using (DPPH-ABTS-Reducing power). The anti-aging effects were assessed using Human Skin Fibroblasts (HSF) cells subjected to D-galactose-induced aging (30 g/L/72 h) and treated with mushroom extracts (0.03–0.25 mg/mL/72 h). The results demonstrated that all mushrooms have significant antioxidant and anti-aging properties, with low concentrations of extracts (0.03 mg/mL) effectively promoting cell proliferation at an 87% rate in the Agaricus bisporus extract, enhancing cell cycle progression by reducing the arrested cells in the G0/G1 phase to 75%, and promoting DNA synthesis in S phase by more than 16.36% in the Hericium erinaceus extract. Additionally, the extracts reduced DNA damage and Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) levels, protecting cells from oxidative stress and potentially contributing to anti-aging effects. The mushrooms also exhibited immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects by upregulating the IL-2, IL-4, and downregulating IL-6 expression, indicating their potential to promote general health. These findings suggest the potential of mushroom extracts as natural agents for reducing the negative effects of aging while promoting cellular health. Further research is required to explore the specific bioactive compounds responsible for these beneficial effects and to evaluate their efficacy in vivo.
Production and Optimization of Biosurfactant Properties Using Candida mogii and Licuri Oil (Syagrus coronata)
Authors: da Silva Peterson F. F. , da Silva Renata R. , Sarubbo Leonie A. , Guerra Jenyffer M. C.
Published: December 2024

Optimizing biosurfactant (BS) production is key for sustainable industrial applications. This study investigated BS synthesis by Candida mogii using licuri oil, a renewable carbon source rich in medium-chain fatty acids. Process optimization was conducted via central composite design (CCD), adjusting concentrations of licuri oil, glucose, NH4NO3, and yeast extract. The predictive model achieved an R2 of 0.9451 and adjusted R2 of 0.8812. Under optimized conditions, C. mogii lowered water surface tension from 71.04 mN·m−1 to 28.66 mN·m−1, with a critical micelle concentration (CMC) of 0.8 g·L−1. The biosurfactant displayed high emulsification indices, exceeding 70% for canola, licuri, and motor oils, suggesting strong potential as an industrial emulsifier. FTIR and NMR analyses confirmed its glycolipid structure. Bioassays showed no toxicity to Lactuca sativa seeds, ensuring environmental safety, while antimicrobial tests demonstrated efficacy against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, indicating its suitability as a biocidal agent. This work positions C. mogii BS from licuri oil as a promising alternative for bioremediation, biotechnology, and antimicrobial uses.
Polymer Entanglement-Induced Hydrogel Adhesion
Authors: Hu Kai , Li Qingyun , Ji Xiaofan
Published: December 2024

Hydrogels are widely used in the field of adhesive materials. However, hydrogel adhesion has previously required the covalent graft of supramolecular groups on polymeric chains. In contrast to that, here, a hydrogel adhesion induced by covalent polymer entanglement between two hydrogel networks was reported. Hydrogels G1 and G2 contain the monomers M1, with diazonium groups, and M2, with sulfonate groups, respectively. When the two hydrogels come into contact, the monomers diffuse into each other’s networks and assemble into supramolecular polymers (SPs) based on electrostatic interactions, threading the two hydrogel networks. Subsequently, SPs convert into covalent polymers (CPs) under UV light stimulation due to the reaction between the diazonium groups and sulfonate groups, leading to the entanglement of the two hydrogel networks and the production of an adhesive effect. This finding provides a novel strategy for hydrogel adhesion.
ISO 10993-4 Compliant Hemocompatibility Evaluation of Gellan Gum Hybrid Hydrogels for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Moyo Mthabisi Talent George , Adali Terin , Edebal Oğuz Han
Published: December 2024

This study examines the hemocompatibility of gellan-gum-based hybrid hydrogels, with varying gellan-gum concentrations and constant sodium alginate and silk fibroin concentrations, respectively, in accordance with ISO 10993-4 standards. While previous studies have focused on cytocompatibility, the hemocompatibility of these hydrogels remains underexplored. Hydrogels were formulated with 0.3%, 0.5%, 0.75%, and 1% gellan gum combined with 3% silk fibroin and 4.2% sodium alginate separately, using physical and ionic cross-linking. Swelling behavior was analyzed in phosphate (pH 7.4) and acetic (pH 1.2) buffers and surface morphology was examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Hemocompatibility tests included complete blood count (CBC), coagulation assays, hemolysis index, erythrocyte morphology, and platelet adhesion analysis. Results showed that gellan gum–sodium alginate hydrogels exhibited faster swelling than gellan gum–silk fibroin formulations. SEM indicated smoother surfaces with sodium alginate, while silk fibroin increased roughness, further amplified by higher gellan-gum concentrations. Hemocompatibility assays confirmed normal profiles in formulations with 0.3%, 0.5%, and 0.75% gellan gum, while 1% gellan gum caused significant hemolytic and thrombogenic activity. These findings highlight the excellent hemocompatibility of gellan-gum-based hydrogels, especially the sodium alginate variants, supporting their potential in bioengineering, tissue engineering, and blood-contacting biomedical applications.
Plant-Based Sunscreen Emulgel: UV Boosting Effect of Bilberry and Green Tea NaDES Extracts
Authors: Martinović Milica , Nešić Ivana , Bojović Dragica , Žugić Ana , Blagojević Slavica , Blagojević Stevan , Tadić Vanja M.
Published: December 2024

Natural deep eutectic solvents (NaDES) were employed for the extraction of bilberry and green tea leaves. This study explored the incorporation of these NaDES extracts into various carrier systems: hydrogels, emulsions, and emulgels stabilized with hydroxyethyl cellulose or xanthan gum. The results demonstrated that, when combined with synthetic UV filters, the NaDES extracts significantly enhanced the SPF and improved the antioxidant properties of the formulation. Although NaDES extracts cannot fully replace synthetic UV filters (homosalate, ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate, and benzophenone-4), they can serve as effective UV boosters, significantly enhancing the SPFs of formulations containing UV filters. Hence, the SPF of the formulation could be improved without increasing the concentrations of synthetic filters. Moreover, NaDES extracts, unlike UV filters, significantly increased the antioxidant potential of the formulations. Among the carriers, hydrogels with xanthan gum and emulgels with hydroxyethyl cellulose achieved the highest SPFs when containing both NaDES extracts and synthetic filters. A texture analysis further revealed that the NaDES extracts positively impacted the mechanical properties of the formulations by increasing their cohesiveness, thus enhancing their physical stability under mechanical pressure. These findings pave the way for further research into NaDES-based formulations, including in vivo testing, to optimize and confirm their efficacy on human skin and validate NaDES extracts as eco-friendly ingredients in cosmetics, with antioxidant and UV boosting potential.
Gender Differences in the Relation Between Suicidal Risk and Body Dissatisfaction Among Bariatric Surgery Patients: A Cross-Lagged Analysis
Authors: Goldzweig Gil , Levy Sigal , Ohayon Shay , Hamdan Sami , Abu-Abeid Subhi , Geller Shulamit
Published: December 2024

Objectives: This study aimed to develop a gender-specific model to understand the causal relationship between body image dissatisfaction, emotional eating, and suicide risk among bariatric surgery patients. A secondary objective was to evaluate gender differences in the associations between these variables. It was hypothesized that, independent of objective weight loss, body dissatisfaction and emotional eating would lead to increased suicide risk. Methods: A total of 109 participants completed self-report measures of suicidal ideation, body image dissatisfaction, and emotional eating before and after bariatric surgery. Results: Cross-lagged analysis indicated that pre-surgery suicide ideation significantly predicts body dissatisfaction primarily among men, independent of the extent of weight loss. High levels of pre-surgery suicide risk correlated with post-surgery body image dissatisfaction in men. The autoregressive effect of suicide ideation was stronger than that of body dissatisfaction for both genders; however, the latter was stronger among women, indicating that past dissatisfaction levels significantly influenced future dissatisfaction. Conclusions: The complex interplay between gender, body dissatisfaction, emotional eating, and suicide risk warrants further research.
Spaces of Radical Possibility: Designing for and from Intersectionality
Authors: Ziaee Armaghan
Published: December 2024

This study examines the crucial role architecture plays in fostering inclusive and equitable experiences on college campuses, focusing on how physical spaces communicate implicit messages of access and belonging. Drawing on interdisciplinary feminist spatial justice frameworks and intersectional analysis, the research critiques traditional top-down design practices that may overlook the identity-based needs of diverse users. Through a case study approach, the paper highlights the disconnect between architectural intentions and lived experiences, illustrating how design choices can unintentionally reinforce social hierarchies. The study advocates for participatory architectural approaches that prioritize the voices and experiences of campus community members, promoting radical inclusivity in the design process. This research contributes to the ongoing discourse on integrating feminist and intersectional approaches into architectural education and practice, emphasizing the importance of creating more just and inclusive spaces.
Seaweed-Derived Bio-Stimulant (Kelpak®) Enhanced the Morphophysiological, Biochemical, and Nutritional Quality of Salt-Stressed Spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.)
Authors: Sogoni Avela , Ngcobo Bonga Lewis , Jimoh Muhali Olaide , Kambizi Learnmore , Laubscher Charles Petrus
Published: December 2024

Biostimulants such as seaweed extracts are emerging as crop management products that can enhance crop productivity and nutritional quality under abiotic stress conditions. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a seaweed-derived biostimulant (Kelpak®) in alleviating salinity stress in spinach. A greenhouse experiment which consisted of five treatments (T1 = Control plants (no NaCl or seaweed extract (SWE), T2 = plants subjected to 300 mM NaCl without SWE, T3 = 300 mM NaCl + 1% dilution of SWE, T4 = 300 mM NaCl + 2.5% dilution of SWE, and T5 = 300 mM NaCl + 5% dilution of SWE) was conducted. The results showed that salinity without the addition of SWE reduced crop growth, relative water content, chlorophyll, and nutritional quality. Similarly, salinity induced severe oxidative stress, indicated by excessive amounts of superoxide radicals, malondialdehyde and the upregulation of catalase, peroxidase, polyphenols, and flavonoids. Interestingly, plants treated with 5% SWE displayed a substantial enhancement in crop performance, reduction in oxidative stress, and improved nutritional quality, characterised by considerable amounts of minerals, proximate constituents, and vitamins. These results support the use of seaweed extract (Kelpak®) as a biostimulant in enhancing growth and nutritional quality of spinach under saline cultivation.
Human Liver MSCs Retain Their Basic Cellular Properties in Chronically Inflamed Liver Tissue
Authors: Kim Yan S. , Lupatov Alexey Yu. , Burunova Veronika V. , Bagmet Nikolay N. , Chardarov Nikita K. , Malov Svyatoslav L. , Kholodenko Roman V. , Shatverian Garnik A. , Manukyan Garik V. , Yarygin Konstantin N. , Kholodenko Irina V.
Published: December 2024

Every 25th death worldwide is associated with liver pathology. The development of novel approaches to liver diseases therapy and protocols for maintaining the vital functions of patients on the liver transplant waiting list are urgently needed. Resident mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) play a significant role in supporting liver tissue integrity and improve the liver condition after infusion. However, it remains unclear whether MSCs isolated from chronically inflamed livers are similar in their basic cellular properties to MSCs obtained from healthy livers. We applied a large array of tests to compare resident MSCs isolated from apparently normal liver tissue and from chronically inflamed livers of patients with fibrosis, cirrhosis, and viral hepatitis. Chronic inflammatory environment did not alter the major cellular characteristics of MSCs, including the expression of MSC markers, stem cell markers, adhesion molecules, and the hallmarks of senescence, as well as cell proliferation, migration, and secretome. Only the expression of some immune checkpoints and toll-like receptors was different. Evidently, MSCs with unchanged cellular properties are present in human liver even at late stages of inflammatory diseases. These cells can be isolated and used as starting material in the development of cell therapies of liver diseases.
Molecular Docking and Experimental Analysis of Essential Oil-Based Preparations on Biofilm Formation on Orthodontic Archwires
Authors: Alexa Vlad Tiberiu , Fratila Aurora Doris , Oancea Roxana , Galuscan Atena , Balean Octavia , Bolchis Vanessa , Buzatu Berivan Laura Rebeca , Obistioiu Diana , Suleiman Mukhtar Adeiza , Jumanca Daniela
Published: December 2024

Good oral hygiene is crucial during treatment with fixed appliances, emphasising the need for additional or alternative oral health methods during orthodontic treatment. This study investigates the effect of essential oil (EO)-based preparations on biofilm adhesion to orthodontic archwires. Five identical-sized orthodontic archwires of different materials were tested using therapeutic and preventive applications of essential oils. This study also used molecular docking to explore how essential oil compounds interact with key proteins of common oral pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus mutans. We found that the constituent materials heavily influence the antimicrobial effects of essential oils on different orthodontic archwires. Stainless steel-based orthodontic archwires demonstrated the highest efficacy in antimicrobial protection against S. mutans strains (maximum BIP = 28.82% on the epoxy-coated SS). Conversely, inhibition effects in preventive applications against S. aureus were observed exclusively with titanium–molybdenum alloy orthodontic archwires across all tested emulsions (maximum BIP = 29.44%). CuNiTi alloys showed ineffectiveness in preventive treatments, as none of the EO mixtures inhibited biofilm development on this material. After biofilm contamination with S. mutans and S. aureuss strains, the ternary emulsion was most effective for four out of five orthodontic archwires. Computational analysis revealed strong binding interactions between essential oil compounds and key proteins of S. aureus and S. mutans, highlighting specific amino acid residues that are critical for these interactions. Based on the results, stainless steel with epoxy coating or TMA archwires, combined with BEO/CEO/OEO ternary mixture, are recommended for optimal antibacterial protection against biofilm formation on orthodontic archwires.
Comprehensive Transcriptomic Analysis Reveals Cell-Type-Specific Roles of Human Odorant Receptors in Glioblastoma and the Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Cho Hee Jin , Yeo Dong Jun , Yang HeeWoong , Koo JaeHyung
Published: December 2024

Odorant receptors (ORs), which constitute approximately 50% of all human G protein-coupled receptors, are increasingly recognized for their diverse roles beyond odor perception, including functions in various pathological conditions like brain diseases and cancers. However, the roles of ORs in glioblastoma (GBM), the most aggressive primary brain tumor with a median survival of only 15 months, remain largely unexplored. Here, we performed an integrated transcriptomic analysis combining The Cancer Genome Atlas RNA-seq and single-cell RNA sequencing data from GBM patients to uncover cell-type-specific roles of ORs within the tumor and its microenvironment. Our findings reveal that ORs display distinct expression patterns, with OR51E1 enriched in pericytes linked to vascular remodeling and angiogenesis, OR2B11 associated with tumor-associated macrophages supporting immunosuppressive phenotypes, and OR2L13 correlated with synaptic activity in recurrent tumors, potentially mediating treatment-induced neuronal adaptations. These results highlight ORs as potential therapeutic targets, offering new insights into their regulatory roles in GBM progression, immune modulation, and treatment resistance.
Keratinocyte-Mediated Antigen Presentation in Psoriasis: Preliminary Insights from In Vitro Studies
Authors: Zima Katarzyna , Purzycka-Bohdan Dorota , Szczerkowska-Dobosz Aneta , Gabig-Cimińska Magdalena
Published: December 2024

Antigen presentation plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of immune-mediated disorders. This study aimed to investigate the effects of IFN-γ and a cytokine mix (5MIX: IL-1α, IL-17A, IL-22, OsM, and TNF-α) on the antigen-presenting capabilities of keratinocytes, with a specific focus on immune-mediated dermatological conditions such as psoriasis (Ps). To achieve this, keratinocytes were treated with IFN-γ and 5MIX, and their impact on the expression of key antigen-presentation molecules, HLA-DRα and CD74, was assessed. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that IFN-γ alone altered the expression of 254 genes, highlighting its central role in modulating immune responses, including the recruitment of immune cells and regulation of inflammation. Temporal experiments further demonstrated that IFN-γ and 5MIX enhanced early endocytic activity and lysosomal degradation pathways, both essential for effective antigen presentation and T-cell activation. To extend these findings to a clinical context, a co-culture model using keratinocytes derived from psoriatic patients was established. This model revealed increased cytokine production following antigen stimulation, indicating robust and consistent CD4+ and naïve T-cell responses. These results elucidate the complex dynamics of cytokine signaling and antigen presentation in keratinocytes, providing insights into potential therapeutic strategies for immune-mediated skin disorders like Ps.