bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Status and Prospects of Research on Lithium-Ion Battery Parameter Identification
Authors: Li Jianlin , Peng Yuchen , Wang Qian , Liu Haitao
Published: May 2024

Lithium-ion batteries are widely used in electric vehicles and renewable energy storage systems due to their superior performance in most aspects. Battery parameter identification, as one of the core technologies to achieve an efficient battery management system (BMS), is the key to predicting and managing the performance of Li-ion batteries. However, due to the complex chemical reactions and thermodynamic processes inside lithium-ion batteries, coupled with the influence of the external environment, accurate identification of lithium-ion battery parameters has become an urgent problem to be solved. In addition, data-driven parameter identification can enable battery models to better understand battery behavior, which is one of the focuses of future research. For this reason, this paper comprehensively reviews the application of data-driven parameter identification methods in different scenarios. Firstly, the research briefly explains the working principle of lithium-ion batteries and the key parameters affecting their performance. Secondly, this paper deeply discusses data-driven methods for parameter identification, which are widely used nowadays, and provides improvement ideas to address the shortcomings of traditional methods. Finally, the paper discusses the challenges faced by parameter identification technology for lithium-ion batteries and envisages future prospects.
Dynamic Electrocardiogram Signal Quality Assessment Method Based on Convolutional Neural Network and Long Short-Term Memory Network
Authors: He Chen , Wei Yuxuan , Wei Yeru , Liu Qiang , An Xiang
Published: May 2024

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are highly prevalent, sudden onset, and relatively fatal, posing a significant public health burden. Long-term dynamic electrocardiography, which can continuously record the long-term dynamic ECG activities of individuals in their daily lives, has high research value. However, ECG signals are weak and highly susceptible to external interference, which may lead to false alarms and misdiagnosis, affecting the diagnostic efficiency and the utilization rate of healthcare resources, so research on the quality of dynamic ECG signals is extremely necessary. Aimed at the above problems, this paper proposes a dynamic ECG signal quality assessment method based on CNN and LSTM that divides the signal into three quality categories: the signal of the Q1 category has a lower noise level, which can be used for reliable diagnosis of arrhythmia, etc.; the signal of the Q2 category has a higher noise level, but it still contains information that can be used for heart rate calculation, HRV analysis, etc.; and the signal of the Q3 category has a higher noise level that can interfere with the diagnosis of cardiovascular disease and should be discarded or labeled. In this paper, we use the widely recognized MIT-BIH database, based on which the model is applied to realistically collect exercise experimental data to assess the performance of the model in dealing with real-world situations. The model achieves an accuracy of 98.65% on the test set, a macro-averaged F1 score of 98.5%, and a high F1 score of 99.71% for the prediction of Q3 category signals, which shows that the model has good accuracy and generalization performance.
Transcriptomic Analysis of Hub Genes Reveals Associated Inflammatory Pathways in Estrogen-Dependent Gynecological Diseases
Authors: Pasamba Elaine C. , Orda Marco A. , Villanueva Brian Harvey Avanceña , Tsai Po-Wei , Tayo Lemmuel L.
Published: May 2024

Gynecological diseases are triggered by aberrant molecular pathways that alter gene expression, hormonal balance, and cellular signaling pathways, which may lead to long-term physiological consequences. This study was able to identify highly preserved modules and key hub genes that are mainly associated with gynecological diseases, represented by endometriosis (EM), ovarian cancer (OC), cervical cancer (CC), and endometrial cancer (EC), through the weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) of microarray datasets sourced from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Five highly preserved modules were observed across the EM (GSE51981), OC (GSE63885), CC (GSE63514), and EC (GSE17025) datasets. The functional annotation and pathway enrichment analysis revealed that the highly preserved modules were heavily involved in several inflammatory pathways that are associated with transcription dysregulation, such as NF-kB signaling, JAK-STAT signaling, MAPK-ERK signaling, and mTOR signaling pathways. Furthermore, the results also include pathways that are relevant in gynecological disease prognosis through viral infections. Mutations in the ESR1 gene that encodes for ERα, which were shown to also affect signaling pathways involved in inflammation, further indicate its importance in gynecological disease prognosis. Potential drugs were screened through the Drug Repurposing Encyclopedia (DRE) based on the up-and downregulated hub genes, wherein a bacterial ribosomal subunit inhibitor and a benzodiazepine receptor agonist were the top candidates. Other drug candidates include a dihydrofolate reductase inhibitor, glucocorticoid receptor agonists, cholinergic receptor agonists, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, sterol demethylase inhibitors, a bacterial antifolate, and serotonin receptor antagonist drugs which have known anti-inflammatory effects, demonstrating that the gene network highlights specific inflammatory pathways as a therapeutic avenue in designing drug candidates for gynecological diseases.
Obstetrical Constraints and the Origin of Extended Postnatal Brain Maturation in Hominin Evolution
Authors: Frémondière Pierre , Haeusler Martin , Thollon Lionel , Webb Nicole M. , Marchal François
Published: May 2024

The origin of difficult birth is still a matter of debate in obstetrics. Recent studies hypothesized that early hominins already experienced obstructed labor even with reduced neonatal head sizes. The aim of this work is to test this hypothesis using an extant obstetrical sample with known delivery outcomes. Three delivery outcomes (i.e., instrument-assisted, Caesarean section, and vaginal birth) were evaluated using a discriminant analysis based on 131 mother–baby dyads and 36 feto-pelvic variables. This obstetrical sample was compared with 20 australopithecine “dyads” generated from the combination of six pelvic reconstructions (three for Australopithecus afarensis, two for A. africanus, and one for A. sediba) and three fetal head size estimations. The obstetrical analysis revealed that dystocic births can be predicted by pelvic features such as an anteroposteriorly flattened pelvic inlet. Australopithecines shared these pelvic morphologies with humans and had eutocic birth only for infants of 110 g brain size or smaller, equaling a human-like neonatal/adult brain size ratio of 25–28%. Although birth mechanism cannot be deduced, the newborn/adult brain size ratio was likely more human-like than previously thought, suggesting that australopithecines were secondarily altricial to circumvent instances of obstructed labor and subsequently require a prolonged postnatal brain growth period, implying some aspects of life history pattern similar to modern humans.
The Impact of Nitrogen-Fixing Bacteria-Based Biostimulant Alone or in Combination with Commercial Inoculum on Tomato Native Rhizosphere Microbiota and Production: An Open-Field Trial
Authors: Novello Giorgia , Bona Elisa , Nasuelli Martina , Massa Nadia , Sudiro Cristina , Campana Daniela Cristina , Gorrasi Susanna , Hochart Marie Louise , Altissimo Adriano , Vuolo Francesco , Gamalero Elisa
Published: May 2024

The agricultural sector is currently encountering significant challenges due to the effects of climate change, leading to negative consequences for crop productivity and global food security. In this context, traditional agricultural practices have been inadequate in addressing the fast-evolving challenges while maintaining environmental sustainability. A possible alternative to traditional agricultural management is represented by using beneficial micro-organisms that, once applied as bioinoculants, may enhance crop resilience and adaptability, thereby mitigating the adverse effects of environmental stressors and boosting productivity. Tomato is one of the most important crops worldwide, playing a central role in the human diet. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of a nitrogen-fixing bacterial-based biostimulant (Azospirillum sp., Azotobacter sp., and Rhizobium sp.) in combination or not with a commercial inoculum Micomix (Rhizoglomus irregulare, Funnelliformis mosseae, Funnelliformis caledonium, Bacillus licheniformis, and Bacillus mucilaginosus) (MYC) on the native rhizosphere communities and tomato production. Bacterial populations in the different samples were characterized using an environmental metabarcoding approach. The bioinocula effect on the native rhizosphere microbiota resulted in significant variation both in alpha and beta diversity and in a specific signature associated with the presence of biostimulants.
How the Western Diet Thwarts the Epigenetic Efforts of Gut Microbes in Ulcerative Colitis and Its Association with Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Majumder Avisek , Bano Shabana
Published: May 2024

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the colon, leading to ulcer development, loss of colon function, and bloody diarrhea. The human gut ecosystem consists of almost 2000 different species of bacteria, forming a bioreactor fueled by dietary micronutrients to produce bioreactive compounds, which are absorbed by our body and signal to distant organs. Studies have shown that the Western diet, with fewer short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), can alter the gut microbiome composition and cause the host’s epigenetic reprogramming. Additionally, overproduction of H2S from the gut microbiome due to changes in diet patterns can further activate pro-inflammatory signaling pathways in UC. This review discusses how the Western diet affects the microbiome’s function and alters the host’s physiological homeostasis and susceptibility to UC. This article also covers the epidemiology, prognosis, pathophysiology, and current treatment strategies for UC, and how they are linked to colorectal cancer.
The History of Nerve Growth Factor: From Molecule to Drug
Authors: Gavioli Elizabeth , Mantelli Flavio , Cesta Maria Candida , Sacchetti Marta , Allegretti Marcello
Published: May 2024

Nerve growth factor (NGF), the first neurotrophin to be discovered, has a long and eventful research journey with a series of turning points, setbacks, and achievements. Since the groundbreaking investigations led by Nobel Prize winner Rita Levi-Montalcini, advancements in the comprehension of NGF’s functions have revolutionized the field of neuroscience, offering new insights and opportunities for therapeutic innovation. However, the clinical application of NGF has historically been hindered by challenges in determining appropriate dosing, administration strategies, and complications related to the production process. Recent advances in the production and scientific knowledge of recombinant NGF have enabled its clinical development, and in 2018, the United States Food and Drug Administration approved cenegermin-bkbj, a recombinant human NGF, for the treatment of all stages of neurotrophic keratitis. This review traces the evolutionary path that transformed NGF from a biological molecule into a novel therapy with potential research applications beyond the eye. Special emphasis is put on the studies that advanced NGF from discovery to the first medicinal product approved to treat a human disease.
Chemical Characterization, Free Radical Scavenging, and Cellular Antioxidant Properties of the Egadi Island Endemic Brassica macrocarpa Guss Leaf Extract
Authors: Cicio Adele , Aloi Noemi , Sut Stefania , Longo Valeria , Terracina Francesca , Dall’Acqua Stefano , Zizzo Maria Grazia , Bruno Maurizio , Ilardi Vincenzo , Colombo Paolo , Luparello Claudio , Serio Rosa
Published: May 2024

The genus Brassica is an important source of food in the Mediterranean diet with documented nutritional and medicinal properties. However, few studies have investigated the phytochemical composition and the biological activity of wild Sicilian taxa. Thus, we aimed to study the chemical profile and the antioxidant potential, in vitro and in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells, of a methanolic extract of leaves of wild Brassica macrocarpa Guss (B. macrocarpa) (Egadi Islands; Sicily-Italy). B. macrocarpa methanolic extract showed a large amount of glucosinolates and different phenolic compounds. It exhibited antioxidant activity in the DPPH assay and in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells, being able to reduce NO and ROS levels and NOS2 mRNA expression. Our study demonstrated that Sicilian B. macrocarpa methanolic extract, in LPS-stimulated macrophages, efficiently counteracts oxidative stress and displays radical scavenging activity. Future studies are required to identify the contribution of the single phytocomponents, to characterize the action mechanism, and to reveal possible applications in human health.
Reduced Insulin Resistance and Oxidative Stress in a Mouse Model of Metabolic Syndrome following Twelve Weeks of Citrus Bioflavonoid Hesperidin Supplementation: A Dose–Response Study
Authors: Jamal Abdulsatar , Brettle Holly , Jamil Dina A. , Tran Vivian , Diep Henry , Bobik Alexander , van der Poel Chris , Vinh Antony , Drummond Grant R. , Thomas Colleen J. , Jelinic Maria , Al-Aubaidy Hayder A.
Published: May 2024

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of metabolic abnormalities affecting ~25% of adults and is linked to chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases. Oxidative stress and inflammation are key drivers of MetS. Hesperidin, a citrus bioflavonoid, has demonstrated antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties; however, its effects on MetS are not fully established. We aimed to determine the optimal dose of hesperidin required to improve oxidative stress, systemic inflammation, and glycemic control in a novel mouse model of MetS. Male 5-week-old C57BL/6 mice were fed a high-fat, high-salt, high-sugar diet (HFSS; 42% kcal fat content in food and drinking water with 0.9% saline and 10% high fructose corn syrup) for 16 weeks. After 6 weeks of HFSS, mice were randomly allocated to either the placebo group or low- (70 mg/kg/day), mid- (140 mg/kg/day), or high-dose (280 mg/kg/day) hesperidin supplementation for 12 weeks. The HFSS diet induced significant metabolic disturbances. HFSS + placebo mice gained almost twice the weight of control mice (p < 0.0001). Fasting blood glucose (FBG) increased by 40% (p < 0.0001), plasma insulin by 100% (p < 0.05), and HOMA-IR by 150% (p < 0.0004), indicating insulin resistance. Hesperidin supplementation reduced plasma insulin by 40% at 140 mg/kg/day (p < 0.0001) and 50% at 280 mg/kg/day (p < 0.005). HOMA-IR decreased by 45% at both doses (p < 0.0001). Plasma hesperidin levels significantly increased in all hesperidin groups (p < 0.0001). Oxidative stress, measured by 8-OHdG, was increased by 40% in HFSS diet mice (p < 0.001) and reduced by 20% with all hesperidin doses (p < 0.005). In conclusion, hesperidin supplementation reduced insulin resistance and oxidative stress in HFSS-fed mice, demonstrating its dose-dependent therapeutic potential in MetS.
Kinetic Behavior of Glutathione Transferases: Understanding Cellular Protection from Reactive Intermediates
Authors: Morgenstern Ralf
Published: May 2024

Glutathione transferases (GSTs) are the primary catalysts protecting from reactive electrophile attack. In this review, the quantitative levels and distribution of glutathione transferases in relation to physiological function are discussed. The catalytic properties (random sequential) tell us that these enzymes have evolved to intercept reactive intermediates. High concentrations of enzymes (up to several hundred micromolar) ensure efficient protection. Individual enzyme molecules, however, turn over only rarely (estimated as low as once daily). The protection of intracellular protein and DNA targets is linearly proportional to enzyme levels. Any lowering of enzyme concentration, or inhibition, would thus result in diminished protection. It is well established that GSTs also function as binding proteins, potentially resulting in enzyme inhibition. Here the relevance of ligand inhibition and catalytic mechanisms, such as negative co-operativity, is discussed. There is a lack of knowledge pertaining to relevant ligand levels in vivo, be they exogenous or endogenous (e.g., bile acids and bilirubin). The stoichiometry of active sites in GSTs is well established, cytosolic enzyme dimers have two sites. It is puzzling that a third of the site’s reactivity is observed in trimeric microsomal glutathione transferases (MGSTs). From a physiological point of view, such sub-stoichiometric behavior would appear to be wasteful. Over the years, a substantial amount of detailed knowledge on the structure, distribution, and mechanism of purified GSTs has been gathered. We still lack knowledge on exact cell type distribution and levels in vivo however, especially in relation to ligand levels, which need to be determined. Such knowledge must be gathered in order to allow mathematical modeling to be employed in the future, to generate a holistic understanding of reactive intermediate protection.
Redefining Immune Dynamics in Acute Pancreatitis: The Protective Role of Galectin-3 Deletion and Treg Cell Enhancement
Authors: Milivojcevic Bevc Ivana , Tasic-Uros Danijela , Stojanovic Bojana S. , Jovanovic Ivan , Dimitrijevic Stojanovic Milica , Gajovic Nevena , Jurisevic Milena , Radosavljevic Gordana , Pantic Jelena , Stojanovic Bojan
Published: May 2024

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a complex inflammatory condition that can lead to systemic inflammatory responses and multiple organ dysfunction. This study investigates the role of Galectin-3 (Gal-3), a β-galactoside-binding lectin, in modulating acquired immune responses in AP. Acute pancreatitis was induced by ligation of the bile-pancreatic duct in wild-type and Galectin-3-deficient C57BL/6 mice. We determined the phenotypic and molecular features of inflammatory cells, serum concentrations of amylase, pancreatic trypsin activity, and pancreatic and lung pathology. Galectin-3 deficiency decreased the total number of CD3+CD49− T cells and CD4+ T helper cells, downregulated the production of inflammatory cytokine and IFN-γ, and increased the accumulation of IL-10-producing Foxp3+ T regulatory cells and regulatory CD4+ T cells in the pancreata of diseased animals. The deletion of Galectin-3 ameliorates acute pancreatitis characterized by lowering serum amylase concentration and pancreatic trypsin activity, and attenuating of the histopathology of the lung. These findings shed light on the role of Galectin-3 in acquired immune response in acute pancreatitis and identify Galectin-3 as an attractive target for investigation of the immunopathogenesis of disease and for consideration as a potential therapeutic target for patients with acute inflammatory disease of the pancreas.
Advancements and Future Prospects in Molecular Targeted and siRNA Therapies for Chronic Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Vysochinskaya Vera , Dovbysh Olesya , Gorshkov Andrey , Brodskaia Alexandra , Dubina Michael , Vasin Andrey , Zabrodskaya Yana
Published: May 2024

Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is an oncological myeloproliferative disorder that accounts for 15 to 20% of all adult leukemia cases. The molecular basis of this disease lies in the formation of a chimeric oncogene BCR–ABL1. The protein product of this gene, p210 BCR–ABL1, exhibits abnormally high constitutive tyrosine kinase activity. Over recent decades, several targeted tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) directed against BCR–ABL1 have been developed and introduced into clinical practice. These inhibitors suppress BCR–ABL1 activity through various mechanisms. Furthermore, the advent of RNA interference technology has enabled the highly specific inhibition of BCR–ABL1 transcript expression using small interfering RNA (siRNA). This experimental evidence opens avenues for the development of a novel therapeutic strategy for CML, termed siRNA therapy. The review delves into molecular genetic mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of CML, challenges in CML therapy, potential molecular targets for drug development, and the latest results from the application of siRNAs in in vitro and in vivo CML models.
Schnitzler Syndrome: Insights into Its Pathogenesis, Clinical Manifestations, and Current Management
Authors: Braud Antoine , Lipsker Dan
Published: May 2024

Schnitzler syndrome is a rare disorder characterized by a chronic urticarial rash associated with immunoglobulin M (IgM) monoclonal gammopathy. Schnitzler syndrome shares strong clinicopathologic similarities with monogenic IL-1-mediated autoinflammatory disorders and is now considered an acquired adult-onset autoinflammatory disease. The spectacular effect of interleukin-1 inhibitors demonstrates the key role of this cytokine in the pathogenesis of the disease. However, the physiopathology of Schnitzler syndrome remains elusive, and the main question regarding the relationship between autoinflammatory features and monoclonal gammopathy is still unanswered. The purpose of this narrative review is to describe what is currently known about the pathogenesis of this peculiar disease, as well as to address its diagnosis and management.
Neuroprotective Strategies and Cell-Based Biomarkers for Manganese-Induced Toxicity in Human Neuroblastoma (SH-SY5Y) Cells
Authors: Cahill Catherine M. , Sarang Sanjan S. , Bakshi Rachit , Xia Ning , Lahiri Debomoy K. , Rogers Jack T.
Published: May 2024

Manganese (Mn) is an essential heavy metal in the human body, while excess Mn leads to neurotoxicity, as observed in this study, where 100 µM of Mn was administered to the human neuroblastoma (SH-SY5Y) cell model of dopaminergic neurons in neurodegenerative diseases. We quantitated pathway and gene changes in homeostatic cell-based adaptations to Mn exposure. Utilizing the Gene Expression Omnibus, we accessed the GSE70845 dataset as a microarray of SH-SY5Y cells published by Gandhi et al. (2018) and applied statistical significance cutoffs at p < 0.05. We report 74 pathway and 10 gene changes with statistical significance. ReactomeGSA analyses demonstrated upregulation of histones (5 out of 10 induced genes) and histone deacetylases as a neuroprotective response to remodel/mitigate Mn-induced DNA/chromatin damage. Neurodegenerative-associated pathway changes occurred. NF-κB signaled protective responses via Sirtuin-1 to reduce neuroinflammation. Critically, Mn activated three pathways implicating deficits in purine metabolism. Therefore, we validated that urate, a purine and antioxidant, mitigated Mn-losses of viability in SH-SY5Y cells. We discuss Mn as a hypoxia mimetic and trans-activator of HIF-1α, the central trans-activator of vascular hypoxic mitochondrial dysfunction. Mn induced a 3-fold increase in mRNA levels for antioxidant metallothionein-III, which was induced 100-fold by hypoxia mimetics deferoxamine and zinc.
Recent Advances on Mutant p53: Unveiling Novel Oncogenic Roles, Degradation Pathways, and Therapeutic Interventions
Authors: Cordani Marco , Garufi Alessia , Benedetti Rossella , Tafani Marco , Aventaggiato Michele , D’Orazi Gabriella , Cirone Mara
Published: May 2024

The p53 protein is the master regulator of cellular integrity, primarily due to its tumor-suppressing functions. Approximately half of all human cancers carry mutations in the TP53 gene, which not only abrogate the tumor-suppressive functions but also confer p53 mutant proteins with oncogenic potential. The latter is achieved through so-called gain-of-function (GOF) mutations that promote cancer progression, metastasis, and therapy resistance by deregulating transcriptional networks, signaling pathways, metabolism, immune surveillance, and cellular compositions of the microenvironment. Despite recent progress in understanding the complexity of mutp53 in neoplastic development, the exact mechanisms of how mutp53 contributes to cancer development and how they escape proteasomal and lysosomal degradation remain only partially understood. In this review, we address recent findings in the field of oncogenic functions of mutp53 specifically regarding, but not limited to, its implications in metabolic pathways, the secretome of cancer cells, the cancer microenvironment, and the regulating scenarios of the aberrant proteasomal degradation. By analyzing proteasomal and lysosomal protein degradation, as well as its connection with autophagy, we propose new therapeutical approaches that aim to destabilize mutp53 proteins and deactivate its oncogenic functions, thereby providing a fundamental basis for further investigation and rational treatment approaches for TP53-mutated cancers.
Artificial Intelligence in Pediatric Emergency Medicine: Applications, Challenges, and Future Perspectives
Authors: Di Sarno Lorenzo , Caroselli Anya , Tonin Giovanna , Graglia Benedetta , Pansini Valeria , Causio Francesco Andrea , Gatto Antonio , Chiaretti Antonio
Published: May 2024

The dawn of Artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare stands as a milestone in medical innovation. Different medical fields are heavily involved, and pediatric emergency medicine is no exception. We conducted a narrative review structured in two parts. The first part explores the theoretical principles of AI, providing all the necessary background to feel confident with these new state-of-the-art tools. The second part presents an informative analysis of AI models in pediatric emergencies. We examined PubMed and Cochrane Library from inception up to April 2024. Key applications include triage optimization, predictive models for traumatic brain injury assessment, and computerized sepsis prediction systems. In each of these domains, AI models outperformed standard methods. The main barriers to a widespread adoption include technological challenges, but also ethical issues, age-related differences in data interpretation, and the paucity of comprehensive datasets in the pediatric context. Future feasible research directions should address the validation of models through prospective datasets with more numerous sample sizes of patients. Furthermore, our analysis shows that it is essential to tailor AI algorithms to specific medical needs. This requires a close partnership between clinicians and developers. Building a shared knowledge platform is therefore a key step.
A Glimpse into the AI-Driven Advances in Neurobiology and Neurologic Diseases
Authors: Qiu Wu , Kuang Hulin
Published: May 2024

Recent developments in AI, especially in machine learning and deep learning, have opened new avenues for research and clinical practice in neurology [...]
SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein 1 Causes Aggregation of α-Synuclein via Microglia-Induced Inflammation and Production of Mitochondrial ROS: Potential Therapeutic Applications of Metformin
Authors: Chang Moon Han , Park Jung Hyun , Lee Hye Kyung , Choi Ji Young , Koh Young Ho
Published: May 2024

Abnormal aggregation of α-synuclein is the hallmark of neurodegenerative diseases, classified as α-synucleinopathies, primarily occurring sporadically. Their onset is associated with an interaction between genetic susceptibility and environmental factors such as neurotoxins, oxidative stress, inflammation, and viral infections. Recently, evidence has suggested an association between neurological complications in long COVID (sometimes referred to as ‘post-acute sequelae of COVID-19’) and α-synucleinopathies, but its underlying mechanisms are not completely understood. In this study, we first showed that SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein 1 (S1) induces α-synuclein aggregation associated with activation of microglial cells in the rodent model. In vitro, we demonstrated that S1 increases aggregation of α-synuclein in BE(2)M-17 dopaminergic neurons via BV-2 microglia-mediated inflammatory responses. We also identified that S1 directly affects aggregation of α-synuclein in dopaminergic neurons through increasing mitochondrial ROS, though only under conditions of sufficient α-Syn accumulation. In addition, we observed a synergistic effect between S1 and the neurotoxin MPP+ S1 treatment. Combined with a low dose of MPP+, it boosted α-synuclein aggregation and mitochondrial ROS production compared to S1 or the MPP+ treatment group. Furthermore, we evaluated the therapeutic effects of metformin. The treatment of metformin suppressed the S1-induced inflammatory response and α-synucleinopathy. Our findings demonstrate that S1 promotes α-synucleinopathy via both microglia-mediated inflammation and mitochondrial ROS, and they provide pathological insights, as well as a foundation for the clinical management of α-synucleinopathies and the onset of neurological symptoms after the COVID-19 outbreak.
Depression Related to COVID-19, Coping, and Hopelessness in Sports Students
Authors: Giurgiu Laura Rodica , Damian Cosmin , Sabău Anca Maria , Caciora Tudor , Călin Floricica Mariana
Published: May 2024

This study aimed to explore the impact of the first two waves of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental and physical states of sports students from Romania and also to compare the differences according to gender and the type of sport. Initially, in order to collect demographic data and health reports, a cross-sectional survey was developed to evaluate the emotional needs of sports students during the pandemic. After the second wave, the coping strategies used by the participants to fight negative emotions were assessed using the CERQ questionnaire. The results indicate that depression symptoms are the most reported psychological issues among the participants and that there are differences according to gender concerning the cognitive schemas they use in order to reduce the symptoms. Also, it was found that there are differences, corresponding to the type of sport, in choosing adaptive coping mechanisms. Ultimately, it was confirmed that higher levels of hopelessness among sports students are associated with increased vulnerability to substance use, with the correlation between those two indicators being strong. Delving deeper into this relationship can help identify critical points for intervention to prevent substance abuse. At the same time, the dichotomic analysis of the results found as moderators—the gender and the type of sport in decreasing the severity of depression could be an important aspect of the next counseling interventions.
Health Professionals’ Experiences with Health-Promoting Dialogues for Older Home-Dwellers—A Qualitative Study
Authors: Johansen Liza Wigaard , Lausund Hilde , Jøranson Nina
Published: May 2024

Home-dwelling older people without healthcare services might develop vulnerability and health-related issues that should be detected proactively by service providers. Health-promoting measures directed towards the target group could facilitate living longer and better at home, as well as delay the need for healthcare services. One approach is through health-promoting dialogues between the municipality and healthcare professionals. This study aims to explore the experiences of healthcare professionals involved in health-promoting dialogues with home-dwellers aged over 75 years without health service decisions in Norway. Data were collected through three focus groups. Thematic analysis was applied to the data resulting in the emergence of one major theme, “challenging dialogues”, comprising three sub-themes: “promote the individual’s perspectives”, “uncovering vulnerability”, and “ambiguity of the dialogues”. The health-promoting dialogue uses a resource perspective for the elderly to remain independent in old age and can reveal vulnerability and underlying needs. The purpose of the dialogue appears ambiguous for the target group, which leads to unclear service expectations and frequent rejections of the offer. Nevertheless, this health-promoting service has a clear purpose of identifying and meeting the needs of the target group in a broader sense during the ageing process.
Longitudinal Association between Stressful Life Events and Suicidal Ideation in Adults with Major Depression Disorder: The Mediating Effects of Insomnia Symptoms
Authors: Chen Ya , Han Xue , Jiang Yingchen , Jiang Yunbin , Huang Xinyu , Wang Wanxin , Guo Lan , Xia Ruirui , Liao Yuhua , Zhang Huimin , Teopiz Kayla M. , McIntyre Roger S. , Fan Beifang , Lu Ciyong
Published: May 2024

Stressful life events (SLEs) and suicidal ideation (SI) are prevalent in persons with major depression disorder (MDD). Less is known about the underlying role of insomnia symptoms in the association between SLEs and SI. This three-wave prospective cohort study sought to investigate the longitudinal association among SLEs, insomnia symptoms, and SI in persons with MDD. The study population included 511 persons with MDD (mean [SD] age, 28.7 [6.7] years; 67.1% were females). Generalized estimated equations (GEEs) were utilized to explore prospective association among exposure of SLEs, insomnia symptoms, and SI. Additionally, a structural equation model (SEM) was employed to estimate the longitudinal mediating effect of insomnia symptoms in the relationship between SLEs and SI. Our study demonstrated that cumulative SLEs were determined to be longitudinally associated with SI in persons with MDD. We further observed that the association between SLEs and SI was significantly mediated by insomnia symptoms. Clinicians assessing persons with MDD, especially those with the history of SLE, could carefully evaluate and promptly treat insomnia symptoms as part of personalized assessment of their depressive illness, thereby achieving early prevention and intervention for suicidal behaviors in persons with MDD.
Effects of Sadness and Fear on Moral Judgments in Public Emergency Events
Authors: Zheng Mufan , Qin Shiyao , Zhao Junhua
Published: May 2024

With the rapid development of society and the deteriorating natural environment, there has been an increase in public emergencies. This study aimed to explore how sadness and fear in the context of public emergencies influence moral judgments. This research first induced feelings of sadness and fear by using videos about public emergencies and music, and then used moral scenarios from the CNI model (C parameter: sensitivity to consequences; N parameter: sensitivity to norms; I parameter: general preference for inaction) to assess participants’ moral thinking. In Study 1, participants were divided into a sadness group and a neutral group, while in Study 2, participants were divided into a fear group and a neutral group. During the experiment, participants were exposed to different videos related to public emergencies to induce the corresponding emotions, and emotional music was continuously played throughout the entire experiment. Participants were then asked to answer questions requiring moral judgments. The results showed that based on the CNI model, sadness induced in the context of public emergencies significantly increased the C parameter, without affecting the N or I parameters. Fear increased the I parameter, without affecting the C or I parameters. That is, sadness and fear induced in the context of a public emergency can influence moral judgments. Specifically, sadness increases individuals’ sensitivity to consequences and fear increases the general preference for inaction in moral judgments.
Structural Vibration Comfort: A Review of Recent Developments
Authors: Xie Weiping , Hua Yumeng
Published: May 2024

With continuous improvements in the social economy and living standards of individuals, the vibration comfort of building structures has gradually been emphasized by academic and engineering communities, such as vehicle-induced vibrations in buildings near traffic, human-induced vibrations in large-span structures, wind-induced vibrations in super-high-rise buildings, and machinery-induced structural vibrations. Comfort-based structural analysis is distinct from traditional safety-based structural analysis, and its theoretical systems and unified guidelines have not yet been established. This paper reviews recent research on structural vibration comfort, including major load categories and their impacts, comfort-based structural analysis, evaluation methods, and vibration-mitigation measures. By presenting the shortcomings of the existing research, potential topics for future study are suggested.
Immunotherapy of Clear-Cell Renal-Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Grigolo Sophie , Filgueira Luis
Published: May 2024

Clear-cell Renal-Cell Carcinoma (ccRCC) is the most common type of renal-cell carcinoma (RCC). In many cases, RCC patients manifest the first symptoms during the advanced stage of the disease. For this reason, immunotherapy appears to be one of the dominant treatments to achieve a resolution. In this review, we focus on the presentation of the main immune checkpoint proteins that act as negative regulators of immune responses, such as PD-1, CTLA-4, LAG-3, TIGIT, and TIM-3, and their respective inhibitors. Interleukin-2, another potential component of the treatment of ccRCC patients, has also been covered. The synergy between several immunotherapies is one of the main aspects that unites the conclusions of research in recent years. To date, the combination of several immunotherapies enhances the efficacy of a monotherapy, which often manifests important limitations. Immunotherapy aimed at restoring the anti-cancer immune response in ccRCC, involved in the recognition and elimination of cancer cells, may also be a valid solution for many other types of immunogenic tumors that are diagnosed in the final stages.
When DNA Mutations Interplay with Cellular Proliferation: A Narrative History of Theories of Carcinogenesis
Authors: El Nachef Laura , Bouchet Audrey , Bourguignon Michel , Foray Nicolas
Published: May 2024

While cancer is one of the most documented diseases, how normal cells become cancerous is still debated. To address this question, in the first part of this review, we investigated the long succession of theories of carcinogenesis since antiquity. Initiated by Hippocrates, Aristotle, and Galen, the humoral theory interpreted cancer as an excess of acid, the black bile. The discovery of the circulation of blood by Harvey in 1628 destroyed the basis of the humoral theory but revived the spontaneous generation hypothesis which was also promoted by Aristotle. In 1859, the theory of microbes promoted by Pasteur demonstrated the irrelevance of this last theory and contributed to the emergence of the germ cancer theory, opposed to the cellular theory of cancer, in which cancer was supposed to be caused by microbes or transformed cells, respectively. These theories were progressively refined by the notions of initiation, promotion, and progression thanks to advances in mutagenesis and cellular proliferation. In the second part of this review, recent discoveries and paradigms in carcinogenesis, notably the role of the protein ATM, a major actor of the stress response involved in both mutagenesis and cellular proliferation, were discussed to better understand the current state of the art of carcinogenesis.
Cu-MOF-74-Derived CuO-400 Material for CO2 Electroreduction
Authors: Liu Hua , Wang Ya-Li , Chen Lei-Bing , Li Meng-Han , Lu Jia-Xing , Wang Huan
Published: May 2024

This study proposes a straightforward strategy utilizing metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) to obtain efficient electrocatalysts for synthesizing C2 products (C2H4 and C2H5OH) via a CO2 reduction reaction. Cu-MOF-74 was chosen as the precursor, while copper oxide nanoparticles were obtained through a calcination method. During the calcination process, by controlling the calcination conditions, the porous structure of the MOF framework was successfully retained, leading to CuO-400 with a high catalytic activity and C2 production efficiency. Compared to CuO-n formed by the calcination of Cu(NO3)2, CuO-400 derived from MOFs exhibits a 1.6 times higher C2 activity as an electrocatalytic material at −1.15 V vs. RHE.
Utilization of Indocyanine Green (ICG) Fluorescence in Patients with Pediatric Colorectal Diseases: The Current Applications and Reported Outcomes
Authors: Bokova Elizaveta , Elhalaby Ismael , Saylors Seth , Lim Irene Isabel P. , Rentea Rebecca M.
Published: May 2024

In pediatric colorectal surgery, achieving and visualizing adequate perfusion during complex reconstructive procedures are paramount to ensure postoperative success. However, intraoperative identification of proper perfusion remains a challeng. This review synthesizes findings from the literature spanning from January 2010 to March 2024, sourced from Medline/PubMed, EMBASE, and other databases, to evaluate the role of indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence imaging in enhancing surgical outcomes. Specifically, it explores the use of ICG in surgeries related to Hirschsprung disease, anorectal malformations, cloacal reconstructions, vaginal agenesis, bladder augmentation, and the construction of antegrade continence channels. Preliminary evidence suggests that ICG fluorescence significantly aids in intraoperative decision-making by improving the visualization of vascular networks and assessing tissue perfusion. Despite the limited number of studies, initial findings indicate that ICG may offer advantages over traditional clinical assessments for intestinal perfusion. Its application has demonstrated a promising safety profile in pediatric patients, underscoring the need for larger, prospective studies to validate these observations, quantify benefits, and further assess its impact on clinical outcomes. The potential of ICG to enhance pediatric colorectal surgery by providing real-time, accurate perfusion data could significantly improve surgical precision and patient recovery.
Three-Dimensional Singular Stress Fields and Interfacial Crack Path Instability in Bicrystalline Superlattices of Orthorhombic/Tetragonal Symmetries
Authors: Chaudhuri Reaz A.
Published: May 2024

First, a recently developed eigenfunction expansion technique, based in part on the separation of the thickness variable and partly utilizing a modified Frobenius-type series expansion technique in conjunction with the Eshelby–Stroh formalism, is employed to derive three-dimensional singular stress fields in the vicinity of the front of an interfacial crack weakening an infinite bicrystalline superlattice plate, made of orthorhombic (cubic, hexagonal, and tetragonal serving as special cases) phases of finite thickness and subjected to the far-field extension/bending, in-plane shear/twisting, and anti-plane shear loadings, distributed through the thickness. Crack-face boundary and interface contact conditions as well as those that are prescribed on the top and bottom surfaces of the bicrystalline superlattice plate are exactly satisfied. It also extends a recently developed concept of the lattice crack deflection (LCD) barrier to a superlattice, christened superlattice crack deflection (SCD) energy barrier for studying interfacial crack path instability, which can explain crack deflection from a difficult interface to an easier neighboring cleavage system. Additionally, the relationships of the nature (easy/easy, easy/difficult, or difficult/difficult) interfacial cleavage systems based on the present solutions with the structural chemistry aspects of the component phases (such as orthorhombic, tetragonal, hexagonal, as well as FCC (face-centered cubic) transition metals and perovskites) of the superlattice are also investigated. Finally, results pertaining to the through-thickness variations in mode I/II/III stress intensity factors and energy release rates for symmetric hyperbolic sine-distributed loads and their skew-symmetric counterparts that also satisfy the boundary conditions on the top and bottom surfaces of the bicrystalline superlattice plate under investigation also form an important part of the present investigation.
Numerical Simulations of the Impact of CaO/Al2O3 on the Structure and Crystallization Behavior of Red Mud
Authors: Xing Lei , Li Zhi-Hui , Du Pei-Pei , Long Yue
Published: May 2024

The problem of large stockpiles of red mud needs to be solved, and the use of red mud to prepare inorganic fibers is a new way of applying red mud on a large scale. The role of CaO/Al2O3 in the melting point and melt structure of red mud was investigated by molecular dynamics simulations and thermodynamic calculations. Liquid phase line temperatures for different CaO/Al2O3 systems were calculated using the Factsage program. The radial distribution function and the type of oxygen bonding were used to characterize the effect of different CaO/Al2O3 on the structure of the red mud melt. The melting point of MgAl2O4 is lower than that of CaTiO3 due to the fact that the type of oxygen bonding in MgAl2O4 is predominantly bridging oxygen bonds. When the red mud system has a low SiO2 content and CaO/Al2O3 is between 0.3 and 3.9, the melting point temperature increases significantly, which is not conducive to the fibrillation of the red mud melt.
Evaluating the Effect of Hydrogen on the Tensile Properties of Cold-Finished Mild Steel
Authors: Sey Emmanuel , Farhat Zoheir N.
Published: May 2024

One of the major sources of catastrophic failures and deterioration of the mechanical properties of metals, such as ductility, toughness, and strength, in various engineering components during application is hydrogen embrittlement (HE). It occurs as a result of the adsorption, diffusion, and interaction of hydrogen with various metal defects like dislocations, voids, grain boundaries, and oxide/matrix interfaces due to its small atomic size. Over the years, extensive effort has been dedicated to understanding hydrogen embrittlement sources, effects, and mechanisms. This study aimed at assessing the tensile properties, toughness, ductility, and susceptibility to hydrogen embrittlement of cold-finished mild steel. Steel coupons were subjected to electrochemical hydrogen charging in a carefully chosen alkaline solution over a particular time and at various charging current densities. Tensile property tests were conducted immediately after the charging process, and the results were compared with those of uncharged steel. The findings revealed a clear drop in toughness and ductility with increasing hydrogen content. Fracture surfaces were examined to determine the failure mechanisms. This evaluation has enabled the prediction of steel’s ability to withstand environments with elevated hydrogen concentrations during practical applications.
How Adversarial REM Dreams May Facilitate Creativity, and Why We Become Aware of Them
Authors: Deperrois Nicolas , Petrovici Mihai , Jordan Jakob , Huber Lukas , Senn Walter
Published: May 2024

The importance of sleep for healthy brain function is widely acknowledged. However, it remains unclear how the internal generation of dreams might facilitate cognitive processes. In this perspective, we review a computational approach inspired by artificial intelligence that proposes a framework for how dreams occurring during rapid-eye-movement (REM) sleep can contribute to learning and creativity. In this framework, REM dreams are characterized by an adversarial process that, against the dream reality, tells a discriminator network to classify the internally created sensory activity as real. Such an adversarial dreaming process is shown to facilitate the emergence of real-world semantic representations in higher cortical areas. We further discuss the potential contributions of adversarial dreaming beyond learning, such as balancing fantastic and realistic dream elements and facilitating the occurrence of creative insights. We characterize non-REM (NREM) dreams, where a single hippocampal memory is replayed at a time, as serving the complementary role of improving the robustness of cortical representations to environmental perturbations. We finally explain how subjects can become aware of the adversarial REM dreams, but less of the NREM dreams, and how content- and state-awareness in wake, dream, and lucid dreaming may appear.