bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using a Failing Human Ventricular Cardiomyocyte Model to Re-Evaluate Ca2+ Cycling, Voltage Dependence, and Spark Characteristics
Authors: Alvarez Jerome Anthony E. , Jafri Mohsin Saleet , Ullah Aman
Published: October 2024

Previous studies have observed alterations in excitation–contraction (EC) coupling during end-stage heart failure that include action potential and calcium (Ca2+) transient prolongation and a reduction of the Ca2+ transient amplitude. Underlying these phenomena are the downregulation of potassium (K+) currents, downregulation of the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ ATPase (SERCA), increase Ca2+ sensitivity of the ryanodine receptor, and the upregulation of the sodium–calcium (Na=-Ca2+) exchanger. However, in human heart failure (HF), debate continues about the relative contributions of the changes in calcium handling vs. the changes in the membrane currents. To understand the consequences of the above changes, they are incorporated into a computational human ventricular myocyte HF model that can explore the contributions of the spontaneous Ca2+ release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR). The reduction of transient outward K+ current (Ito) is the main membrane current contributor to the decrease in RyR2 open probability and L-type calcium channel (LCC) density which emphasizes its importance to phase 1 of the action potential (AP) shape and duration (APD). During current-clamp conditions, RyR2 hyperphosphorylation exhibits the least amount of Ca2+ release from the SR into the cytosol and SR Ca2+ fractional release during a dynamic slow–rapid–slow (0.5–2.5–0.5 Hz) pacing, but it displays the most abundant and more lasting Ca2+ sparks two-fold longer than a normal cell. On the other hand, under voltage-clamp conditions, HF by decreased SERCA and upregulated INCX show the least SR Ca2+ uptake and EC coupling gain, as compared to HF by hyperphosphorylated RyR2s. Overall, this study demonstrates that the (a) combined effect of SERCA and NCX, and the (b) RyR2 dysfunction, along with the downregulation of the cardiomyocyte’s potassium currents, could substantially contribute to Ca2+ mishandling at the spark level that leads to heart failure.
Evolution During Bottle Ageing of Wines Macerated with Toasted Vine-Shoots and Micro-Oxygenation
Authors: Cebrián-Tarancón Cristina , Sánchez-Gómez Rosario , Martínez-Gil Ana María , del Álamo-Sanza Maria , Nevares Ignacio , Salinas Maria Rosario
Published: October 2024

The effects of SEGs (“Shoot from vines—Enological—Granule”) on winemaking within the same variety are well established. However, the interaction of different SEG varieties combined with micro-oxygenation (MOX) and its subsequent evolution in the bottle has not been investigated to date. In this work, Tempranillo wines were treated with two doses of SEGs from Tempranillo and Cabernet Sauvignon (12 and 24 g/L) and subjected to two fixed MOX doses (LOTR, 6.24 mg/L·month, and HOTR, 11.91 mg/L·month). After that, the wines were bottled, and their chemical composition and sensory profile were analysed after 3 and 6 months. Although no clear trend directly associated with the use of MOX was observed, in terms of chemical composition, wines showed an evolution in their chemical profile over time, with compounds such as vanillin increasing as more oxygen was added. Regarding their sensorial profile, the wines were more rounded after 6 months that in bottling, where SEGs or toasted descriptors, studied at the taste phase, were slightly more intense with the low SEG dose and HOTR combination.
Voice Assessment in Patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: An Exploratory Study on Associations with Bulbar and Respiratory Function
Authors: Rocha Pedro Santos , Bento Nuno , Svärd Hanna , Lopes Diana Monteiro , Hespanhol Sandra , Folgado Duarte , Carreiro André Valério , de Carvalho Mamede , Miranda Bruno
Published: October 2024

Background: Speech production is a possible way to monitor bulbar and respiratory functions in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Moreover, the emergence of smartphone-based data collection offers a promising approach to reduce frequent hospital visits and enhance patient outcomes. Here, we studied the relationship between bulbar and respiratory functions with voice characteristics of ALS patients, alongside a speech therapist’s evaluation, at the convenience of using a simple smartphone. Methods: For voice assessment, we considered a speech therapist’s standardized tool—consensus auditory-perceptual evaluation of voice (CAPE-V); and an acoustic analysis toolbox. The bulbar sub-score of the revised ALS functional rating scale (ALSFRS-R) was used, and pulmonary function measurements included forced vital capacity (FVC%), maximum expiratory pressure (MEP%), and maximum inspiratory pressure (MIP%). Correlation coefficients and both linear and logistic regression models were applied. Results: A total of 27 ALS patients (12 males; 61 years mean age; 28 months median disease duration) were included. Patients with significant bulbar dysfunction revealed greater CAPE-V scores in overall severity, roughness, strain, pitch, and loudness. They also presented slower speaking rates, longer pauses, and higher jitter values in acoustic analysis (all p < 0.05). The CAPE-V’s overall severity and sub-scores for pitch and loudness demonstrated significant correlations with MIP% and MEP% (all p < 0.05). In contrast, acoustic metrics (speaking rate, absolute energy, shimmer, and harmonic-to-noise ratio) significantly correlated with FVC% (all p < 0.05). Conclusions: The results provide supporting evidence for the use of smartphone-based recordings in ALS patients for CAPE-V and acoustic analysis as reliable correlates of bulbar and respiratory function.
Dopaminergic Epistases in Schizophrenia
Authors: Bosun Adela , Albu-Kalinovic Raluka , Neda-Stepan Oana , Bosun Ileana , Farcas Simona Sorina , Enatescu Virgil-Radu , Andreescu Nicoleta Ioana
Published: October 2024

Background: The dopaminergic theory, the oldest and most comprehensively analyzed neurotransmitter theory of schizophrenia, remains a focal point of research. Methods: This systematic review examines the association between combinations of 14 dopaminergic genes and the risk of schizophrenia. The selected genes include dopamine receptors (DRD1–5), metabolizing enzymes (COMT, MAOA, MAOB, DBH), synthesizing enzymes (TH, DDC), and dopamine transporters (DAT, VMAT1, and VMAT2). Results: Recurring functional patterns show combinations with either hyperdopaminergic effects in limbic and striatal regions or high striatal and low prefrontal dopamine levels. The protective statuses of certain alleles or genotypes are often maintained in epistatic effects; however, exceptions exist. This complexity could explain the inconsistent results in previous genetic studies. Investigating individual alleles may be insufficient due to the heterozygous advantage observed in some studies. Conclusions: Schizophrenia may not be a monolithic disease, but rather a sum of different phenotypes which respond uniquely to different treatment and prevention approaches.
How Does Perceived Social Support Impact Mental Health and Creative Tendencies Among Chinese Senior High School Students?
Authors: Gao Dongdong , Dong Yixuan , Kong Anran , Li Xiaoyu
Published: October 2024

The senior high school period is a critical phase for the proliferation of mental health problems, as well as a key period for cognitive development among adolescents. Due to the importance of support from the external environment for students, this study aims to explore and verify the protective role of social support in the mental health and creative tendencies of senior high school students, as well as its mechanisms and boundary conditions. Based on a survey of 1463 Chinese senior high school students, a moderated mediation model was constructed. The results showed that (1) perceived social support significantly negatively predicts mental health problems and significantly positively predicts creative tendencies; (2) self-esteem mediates the impact of perceived social support on both mental health problems and creative tendencies; (3) perceived stress not only moderates the impact of self-esteem on mental health problems and creative tendencies, but also moderates the mediating effect of self-esteem. The findings of this study shed light on the positive impact of social support and the self-esteem it nurtures during the senior high school years. These insights offer valuable recommendations for practitioners aiming to prevent mental health issues and foster creative tendencies among senior high school students.
A Scientometric Review and Analysis of Studies on the Barriers and Challenges of Sustainable Construction
Authors: Vaghefi-Rezaee Hoda Alsadat , Sarvari Hadi , Khademi-Adel Setareh , Edwards David J. , Roberts Chris J.
Published: October 2024

Despite numerous concerns about climate change and the deterioration of nature, the construction industry is still one of the largest consumers of minerals and natural resources. In recent decades, sustainable construction using renewable and recyclable materials, reducing energy, and the adoption of more green technologies with the aim of reducing harmful impacts on the environment have received profound worldwide attention. The more key stakeholders involved strive to achieve sustainability, the more barriers they may face, which requires investigating them to have an effective plan to recognize, prevent, and control them. This paper reviews, classifies, and analyzes the major barriers of sustainable construction between January 2000 and April 2023. In this scientometric study, 153 articles were selected from the Web of Science database. Then, bibliometrics, the creation of maps from network data, as well as the illustration and exploration of those maps were conducted with the HistCite 12.03.1 and VOSviewer 1.6.20 software programs. The analytical results showed that the most profound barriers of sustainable construction are classified into 12 groups: price, economic parameters, awareness, technical, policy and regulations, design, management and government, environmental, social, materials, planning, and market.
IoT—A Promising Solution to Energy Management in Smart Buildings: A Systematic Review, Applications, Barriers, and Future Scope
Authors: Poyyamozhi Mukilan , Murugesan Balasubramanian , Rajamanickam Narayanamoorthi , Shorfuzzaman Mohammad , Aboelmagd Yasser
Published: October 2024

The use of Internet of Things (IoT) technology is crucial for improving energy efficiency in smart buildings, which could minimize global energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. IoT applications use numerous sensors to integrate diverse building systems, facilitating intelligent operations, real-time monitoring, and data-informed decision-making. This critical analysis of the features and adoption frameworks of IoT in smart buildings carefully investigates various applications that enhance energy management, operational efficiency, and occupant comfort. Research indicates that IoT technology may decrease energy consumption by as much as 30% and operating expenses by 20%. This paper provides a comprehensive review of significant obstacles to the use of IoT in smart buildings, including substantial initial expenditures (averaging 15% of project budgets), data security issues, and the complexity of system integration. Recommendations are offered to tackle these difficulties, emphasizing the need for established processes and improved coordination across stakeholders. The insights provided seek to influence future research initiatives and direct the academic community in construction engineering and management about the appropriate use of IoT technology in smart buildings. This study is a significant resource for academics and practitioners aiming to enhance the development and implementation of IoT solutions in the construction sector.
Predicting Additional Metastases in Axillary Lymph Node Dissection After Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy: Ratio of Positive/Total Sentinel Nodes
Authors: Cebrecos Isaac , Torras Ines , Castillo Helena , Pumarola Claudia , Ganau Sergi , Sitges Carla , Vidal-Sicart Sergi , Schettini Francesco , Sanfeliu Esther , Loinaz Ignacio , Garcia Marta , Oses Gabriela , Molla Meritxell , Vidal Maria , Mension Eduard
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: The aim of the study was to determine the clinical value of the sentinel lymph node ratio (SLN-R) in predicting additional positive lymph nodes during axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) in breast cancer patients following neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC). Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed at a single institution evaluating data from 1521 BC patients. Inclusion criteria comprised cT1/cT4, cN0/cN1 status with positive post-NAC axillary staging by SLN/TAD, respectively, and subsequent ALND. Results: The study included 118 patients, divided into two groups based on the presence or absence of additional node metastasis at ALND: 39 in the residual disease group (RD) and 79 in the non-residual disease group (nRD). Univariate logistic regression analysis of SLN-R was conducted to assess its predictive value, yielding an odds ratio (OR) of 7.79 (CI 1.92–29.5, p = 0.003). An SLN-R cut-off point of <0.35 was identified using ROC curve analysis, with a false-negative rate of 10.2%, as a predictor for no additional metastasis at ALND following post-NAC SLN/TAD positivity. Conclusions: The study concludes that SLN-R is a valuable predictor for determining the omission of ALND in cases where SLN/TAD is positive after NAC. This metric, in combination with other clinical variables, could help develop a nomogram to spare patients from ALND.
Fecal Microbiome Composition Correlates with Pathologic Complete Response in Patients with Operable Esophageal Cancer Treated with Combined Chemoradiotherapy and Immunotherapy
Authors: Shaikh Fyza Y. , Lee Seoho , White James R. , Zhao Yujie , Ferri Jacqueline T. , Pereira Gavin , Landon Blair V. , Ke Suqi , Hu Chen , Feliciano Josephine L. , Hales Russell K. , Voong K. Ranh , Battafarano Richard J. , Yang Stephen C. , Broderick Stephen , Ha Jinny , Thompson Elizabeth , Shin Eun J. , Bartlett David L. , Weksler Benny , Pardoll Drew M. , Anagnostou Valsamo , Lam Vincent K. , Zaidi Ali H. , Kelly Ronan J. , Sears Cynthia L.
Published: October 2024

Background: Preclinical and clinical data indicate that chemoradiotherapy (CRT) in combination with checkpoint inhibitors may prime an anti-tumor immunological response in esophageal cancer. However, responses to neoadjuvant therapy can vary widely and the key biomarkers to determine response remain poorly understood. The fecal microbiome is a novel and potentially modifiable biomarker of immunotherapy response, and both fecal and tumor microbes have been found to associate with outcomes in esophageal cancer. Methods: Fecal and tumor samples were collected from patients with stage II–III resectable esophageal or gastroesophageal junction carcinoma treated with neoadjuvant immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) plus CRT prior to surgical resection. Microbiome profiles were analyzed by 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing and taxonomic data were integrated with fecal metabolite analysis to assess microbial function. Results: The fecal microbiome of patients with pathological complete response (PCR) grouped in distinct clusters compared to patients with residual viable tumor (RVT) by Bray–Curtis diversity metric. Integrated taxonomic and metabolomic analysis of fecal samples identified a sphingolipid and primary bile acid as enriched in the PCR, the levels of which correlated with several bacterial species: Roseburis inulinivorans, Ruminococcus callidus, and Fusicantenibacter saccharivorans. Analysis of the tumor microbiome profiles identified several bacterial genera previously associated with esophageal tumors, including Streptococcus and Veillonella. Conclusions: These results further characterize the fecal and tumor microbiome of patients with operable esophageal cancer and identify specific microbes and metabolites that may help elucidate how microbes contribute to tumor response with neoadjuvant CRT combined with ICI.
Molecular and Cellular Effects of Microplastics and Nanoplastics: Focus on Inflammation and Senescence
Authors: Mahmud Faiza , Sarker Drishty B. , Jocelyn Jonathan A. , Sang Qing-Xiang Amy
Published: October 2024

Microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs) are ubiquitous environmental contaminants. Their prevalence, persistence, and increasing industrial production have led to questions about their long-term impact on human and animal health. This narrative review describes the effects of MNPs on oxidative stress, inflammation, and aging. Exposure to MNPs leads to increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) across multiple experimental models, including cell lines, organoids, and animal systems. ROS can cause damage to cellular macromolecules such as DNA, proteins, and lipids. Direct interaction between MNPs and immune cells or an indirect result of oxidative stress-mediated cellular damage may lead to increased production of pro-inflammatory cytokines throughout different MNP-exposure conditions. This inflammatory response is a common feature in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative, cardiovascular, and other age-related diseases. MNPs also act as cell senescence inducers by promoting mitochondrial dysfunction, impairing autophagy, and activating DNA damage responses, exacerbating cellular aging altogether. Increased senescence of reproductive cells and transfer of MNPs/induced damages from parents to offspring in animals further corroborates the transgenerational health risks of the tiny particles. This review aims to provoke a deeper investigation into the notorious effects these pervasive particles may have on human well-being and longevity.
Endocrine Perspective of Cutaneous Lichen Amyloidosis: RET-C634 Pathogenic Variant in Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Type 2
Authors: Florescu Alexandru-Florin , Sima Oana-Claudia , Nistor Claudiu , Ciobica Mihai-Lucian , Costachescu Mihai , Stanciu Mihaela , Tanasescu Denisa , Popa Florina Ligia , Carsote Mara
Published: October 2024

Background: Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), the third most frequent histological type of thyroid malignancy, may be found isolated or as part of multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN2). One particular subtype of this autosomal dominant-transmitted syndrome includes an association with cutaneous lichen amyloidosis, although, generally, a tide genotype–phenotype correlation is described in patients who carry RET proto-oncogene pathogenic variants. Methods: Our objective was to provide an endocrine perspective of a case series diagnosed with RET-positive familial MTC associated with cutaneous primary lichen amyloidosis amid the confirmation of MEN2. Six members of the same family had cutaneous lesion with different features (from hyperpigmented, velvety to red/pink appearance) and four of them harbored a RET pathogenic variant at 634 codon (exon 11): c.1900T>G, p.634G (TGC634CGC). Results: All six patients were females with the lesion at the interscapular region. Except for two women, four of these subjects were investigated and had MTC (three of them with postoperatory confirmation). The youngest affected individual was 6 years old. The three adult females were confirmed with RET pathogenic variant during their 30s, while the girl underwent the familial screening as a newborn. None of them had primary hyperparathyroidism until the present time, except for one subject, and two out of the three adults also had bilateral pheochromocytoma. Notably, all patients were rather asymptomatic from the endocrine perspective at the moment when endocrine tumor/cancer was confirmed, and the skin was progressively affected a few years before the actual MEN2 confirmation. Conclusions: This case series highlights the following key message: awareness of the dermatologic findings in MTC/MEN2 patients is essential since lesions such as cutaneous lichen amyloidosis might represent the skin signature of the endocrine condition even before the actual endocrine manifestations. These data add to the limited published reports with respect to this particular presentation, noting the fact that RET-C634 is the most frequent pathogenic variant in MEN2-associated lichen amyloidosis; females are more often affected; the interscapular region is the preferred site; the age of diagnosis might be within the third decade of life, while we reported one of the youngest patients with the lesion. The same RET pathogenic variant is not associated with the same dermatologic features as shown in the vignette. The same RET mutation does not mean that all family members will present the same skin anomaly.
Aluminum-Modified Plasma Nitriding with High Efficiency and Enhanced Performance
Authors: He Ze , Wei Wei , Hu Jing , Gu Jingyi
Published: October 2024

Aluminum-modified plasma nitriding was developed in this research by the addition of a few FeAl particles around samples of 42CrMo middle carbon alloy steel during plasma nitriding. The goal of this study was to enhance nitriding efficiency and the combined performance of the steel. The research results show that nitriding efficiency was greatly enhanced, by about 6 times, with the effective hardening layer rising from 224 μm to 1246 μm compared with traditional plasma nitriding at 520 °C/4 h. More importantly, the compound layer increased just a little bit, from 11.64 μm to 14.32 μm, which remarkably reduced the ratio of the compound layer’s thickness to the effective hardening layer’s thickness, thus being quite beneficial to decreasing the brittleness level, making the brittleness level decrease from Level 4 to Level 1. Also, extremely high surface hardness and excellent wear resistance were obtained by aluminum-modified plasma nitriding due to the formation of hard phases of AlN and FeAl in the nitrided layer, with the surface hardness rising from 755 HV0.025 to 1251 HV0.025 and the wear rate reducing from 8.15 × 10−5 g·N−1·m−1 to 4.07 × 10−5 g·N−1·m−1. In other words, compared with traditional plasma nitriding, wear resistance was enhanced by two times after aluminum-modified plasma nitriding. Therefore, this study can provide comprehensive insights into the surface characteristics and combined performance of aluminum-modified plasma nitriding layers.
Novel Crystalline Salts of 4-Piperidyl- and 4-Pyridylmethylamines Prepared by Catalytic Hydrogenation of 4-Pyridinecarbonitrile: Crystallographic Unit Cells Based on Powder XRD Patterns by Using the DASH Program Package
Authors: Madarász János , Hegedűs László
Published: October 2024

Structures of some hydrogenated products and intermediates, prepared by a heterogeneous Pd/C or Ru/C catalyst starting from 4-pyridinecarbonitrile (4PN), in water and in the presence of an acidic additive (HCl or H2SO4), were confirmed in various salt forms of 4-piperidylmethylamine (4PIPA) and 4-pyridylmethylamine (4PA). Crystallographic unit cell structure of the completely hydrogenated product salts (4PIPA·H2SO4 and 4PIPA·2HCl) showed a common double-protonated [4PIPA+2H]2+ divalent cation structure, also proved by FT-IR, and that of the 4PA·H2SO4 intermediate salt was also indexed and modeled by means of powder X-ray diffraction, applying the DASH 4.0 software package and crystal coordinates coming from former single-crystal X-ray structure determination. Formations of the anhydrous and hydrated forms of 4PA·0.5H2SO4·xH2O (x = 0 or x = 0.5, hemisulfates) were also studied by powder XRD and FT-IR spectroscopy for comparing these crystal structures.
Voucher Specimens in Taxonomy and Simpson’s Hypodigm
Authors: Scott George H.
Published: October 2024

The problem of specifying representative specimens to serve as vouchers or ground truth specimens for species is viewed from a perspective of object recognition based on training using exemplars recognized by personal perception. In taxonomy, an ‘exemplar’ mirrors the hypodigm concept of Simpson, which refers to certain specimens being unequivocal members of a species. His concept has been discarded in most taxonomies because he did not provide procedures that distinguished it from ‘material’ or ‘sample’. However, his underlying view of a morphospecies was of a group united by shared character resemblances, probabilistically related. On this basis, the hypodigm of a taxonomic species is here restricted to specimens demonstrated as likely belonging to one population. To raise objectivity in this task, personal perception should be supplemented by morphometric analyses, several of which are demonstrated using living and Holocene samples of the oceanic zooplankter Truncorotalia crassaformis (Galloway and Wissler) from the Atlantic and Caribbean Oceans.
Periodic Bleeding from a Cesarean Section Scar Fistula
Authors: Klamminger Gilbert , Wagner Daniel-Christoph , Beeres Martin , Hasenburg Annette , Schwab Roxana
Published: October 2024

We present the case of a 36-year-old woman who presented to our clinic for a second opinion. After multiple previous surgeries, she presented with an abdominal wound infection, which was initially treated conservatively. In the further course, catamenial bleeding occurred as an unusual symptom, and the suspicion of a fistula formation was postulated. Subsequent surgical repair and consecutive histopathological diagnosis revealed evidence of a fistula with endometriosis genitalis externa and thus gave an explanation for this striking clinical case presentation.
Forecasting Patient Early Readmission from Irish Hospital Discharge Records Using Conventional Machine Learning Models
Authors: Pham Minh-Khoi , Mai Tai Tan , Crane Martin , Ebiele Malick , Brennan Rob , Ward Marie E. , Geary Una , McDonald Nick , Bezbradica Marija
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: Predicting patient readmission is an important task for healthcare risk management, as it can help prevent adverse events, reduce costs, and improve patient outcomes. In this paper, we compare various conventional machine learning models and deep learning models on a multimodal dataset of electronic discharge records from an Irish acute hospital. Methods: We evaluate the effectiveness of several widely used machine learning models that leverage patient demographics, historical hospitalization records, and clinical diagnosis codes to forecast future clinical risks. Our work focuses on addressing two key challenges in the medical fields, data imbalance and the variety of data types, in order to boost the performance of machine learning algorithms. Furthermore, we also employ SHapley Additive Explanations (SHAP) value visualization to interpret the model predictions and identify both the key data features and disease codes associated with readmission risks, identifying a specific set of diagnosis codes that are significant predictors of readmission within 30 days. Results: Through extensive benchmarking and the application of a variety of feature engineering techniques, we successfully improved the area under the curve (AUROC) score from 0.628 to 0.7 across our models on the test dataset. We also revealed that specific diagnoses, including cancer, COPD, and certain social factors, are significant predictors of 30-day readmission risk. Conversely, bacterial carrier status appeared to have minimal impact due to lower case frequencies. Conclusions: Our study demonstrates how we effectively utilize routinely collected hospital data to forecast patient readmission through the use of conventional machine learning while applying explainable AI techniques to explore the correlation between data features and patient readmission rate.
Comparison of Serum and Cerebrospinal Fluid Neurofilament Light Chain Concentrations Measured by Ella™ and Lumipulse™ in Patients with Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Urbano Teresa , Maramotti Riccardo , Tondelli Manuela , Gallingani Chiara , Carbone Chiara , Iacovino Najara , Vinceti Giulia , Zamboni Giovanna , Chiari Annalisa , Bedin Roberta
Published: October 2024

Objective: Neurofilament light chain proteins (NfLs) are considered a promising biomarker of neuroaxonal damage in several neurological diseases. Their measurement in the serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of patients with dementia may be especially useful. Our aim was to compare the NfL measurement performance of two advanced technologies, specifically the Ella™ microfluidic platform and the Lumipulse™ fully automated system, in patients with cognitive disorders. Methods: Thirty subjects with neurodegenerative cognitive disorders (10 with Alzheimer’s Disease, 10 with Frontotemporal Dementia, and 10 with non-progressive Mild Cognitive Impairment) seen at the Cognitive Neurology Clinic of Modena University Hospital (Italy) underwent CSF and serum NfL measurement with both the Ella™ microfluidic platform (Bio-Techne, Minneapolis, MN, USA)) and the Lumipulse™ fully automated system for the CLEIA (Fujirebio Inc., Ghent, Belgium). Correlation and regression analyses were applied to assess the association between NfL concentrations obtained with the two assays in CSF and serum. The Passing–Bablok regression method was employed to evaluate the agreement between the assays. Results: There were high correlations between the two assays (r = 0.976, 95% CI. 0.950–0.989 for CSF vs. r = 0.923, 95% CI 0.842–0.964 for serum). A Passing–Bablok regression model was estimated to explain the relationship between the two assays, allowing us to switch from one to the other when only one assay was available. Conclusions: We found a good degree of correlation between the two methods in patients with neurocognitive disorders. We also established a method that will allow comparisons between results obtained with either technique, allowing for meta-analyses and larger sample sizes.
A Small-Scale Object Detection Algorithm in Intelligent Transportation Scenarios
Authors: Song Junzi , Han Chunyan , Wu Chenni
Published: October 2024

In response to the problem of poor detection ability of object detection models for small-scale targets in intelligent transportation scenarios, a fusion method is proposed to enhance the features of small-scale targets, starting from feature utilization and fusion methods. The algorithm is based on the YOLOv4 tiny framework and enhances the utilization of shallow and mid-level features on the basis of Feature Pyramid Network (FPN), improving the detection accuracy of small and medium-sized targets. In view of the problem that the background of the intelligent traffic scene image is cluttered, and there is more redundant information, the Convolutional Block Attention Module (CBAM) is used to improve the attention of the model to the traffic target. To address the problem of data imbalance and prior bounding box adaptation in custom traffic data sets that expand traffic images in COCO and VOC, we propose a Copy-Paste method with an improved generation method and a K-means algorithm with improved distance measurement to enhance the model’s detection ability for corresponding categories. Comparative experiments were conducted on a customized 260-thousand traffic data set containing public traffic images, and the results showed that compared to YOLOv4 tiny, the proposed algorithm improved mAP by 4.9% while still ensuring the real-time performance of the model.
Student-Centered Learning: Some Issues and Recommendations for Its Implementation in a Traditional Curriculum Setting in Health Sciences
Authors: Martin-Alguacil Nieves , Avedillo Luis , Mota-Blanco Ruben , Gallego-Agundez Miguel
Published: October 2024

This review article discussed the challenges faced during the implementation of active learning methods within the traditional teaching environment at the Complutense University of Madrid. These challenges encompass interactions with colleagues, students, and the classroom itself. It is essential for educators to have confidence that the outcomes achieved through these teaching approaches will not be adversely impacted by the quality assessment system of surveys. The university should adopt a teaching quality assessment framework that differentiates between the instructor’s efficiency and the effectiveness of teaching methods. Students need to recognize the significance of developing critical thinking skills over rote memorization throughout their academic journey and understand the importance of this for their future professional development. Suggestions are also made for improving teamwork in traditional classrooms, which typically follow standard teaching methods.
The Relationship Between Teachers’ Equity Orientation and Instructional Usefulness of Assessments of and for Learning
Authors: Varier Divya , Powell Marvin G. , Dodman Stephanie , View Jenice L. , DeMulder Elizabeth
Published: October 2024

The article presents findings from a survey study of K-12 teachers in the mid-Atlantic United States about their assessment practice. Guided by two frameworks related to teacher assessment literacy in practice and critical-data-driven decision-making, we investigated how teachers’ equity orientation is related to their perceived instructional usefulness of standardized assessments of learning and assessments for learning. Structural equation models revealed defensible contributions of equity orientation and assessment preparation and professional development, specifically, teachers’ motivations for joining the profession, preparation for reflective practice and equity-oriented practice, and beliefs about societal equality to their perceived usefulness of assessments. Findings provide empirical evidence to situate the role of and influences on assessment practices in supporting equitable learning environments.
Teaching Topic Preferences in the Nature–Human–Society Subject: How Trainee Teachers Justify Their Likes and Dislikes
Authors: Pahl Angelika , Tschiesner Reinhard
Published: October 2024

This study focuses on the description and explanation of trainee teachers’ attitudes in specific educational situations. More precisely, it demonstrates the reasons why they prefer to teach certain Nature–Human–Society topics over others and, conversely, why they do not like teaching some of those topics—particularly science topics relating to physics and technology. The description of these arguments is relevant because trainee teachers’ attitudes can have an impact on later teacher behavior, especially in a multidisciplinary subject such as Nature—Human–Society, where different topics can be given different amounts of time and importance in class. The results of this study are based on a survey of a student cohort in teacher training in Switzerland. The arguments for liking or disliking a total of twelve teaching topics in the subject Nature–Human–Society were elicited through open-ended questions and theoretically assigned to three attitude dimensions—cognitive beliefs, affective access, and perceived control—following qualitative content analysis. Differences in the reasons for liking and disliking certain teaching topics are shown, as well as the general finding that liking teaching topics is primarily based on cognitive beliefs, while disliking teaching topics is primarily attributed to lacking perceived control or lacking affective access to trainee teachers.
Multi-Agent Deep Reinforcement Learning for Blockchain-Based Energy Trading in Decentralized Electric Vehicle Charger-Sharing Networks
Authors: Han Yinjie , Meng Jingyi , Luo Zihang
Published: October 2024

With The integration of renewable energy sources into smart grids and electric vehicle (EV) charger-sharing networks is essential for achieving the goal of environmental sustainability. However, the uneven distribution of distributed energy trading among EVs, fixed charging stations (FCSs), and mobile charging stations (MCSs) introduces challenges such as inadequate supply at FCSs and prolonged latencies at MCSs. In this paper, we propose a multi-agent deep reinforcement learning (MADRL)-based auction algorithm for energy trading that effectively balances charger supply with energy demand in distributed EV charging markets, while also reducing total charging latency. Specifically, this involves a MADRL-based hierarchical auction that dynamically adapts to real-time conditions, optimizing the balance of supply and demand. During energy trading, each EV, acting as a learning agent, can refine its bidding strategy to participate in various local energy trading markets, thus enhancing both individual utility and global social welfare. Furthermore, we design a cross-chain scheme to securely record and verify transaction results of energy trading in decentralized EV charger-sharing networks to ensure integrity and transparency. Finally, experimental results show that the proposed algorithm significantly outperforms both the second-price and double auctions in increasing global social welfare and reducing total charging latency.
A Methodology for the Design of a Compliant Electrocardiograph: A Case Study
Authors: Gordillo-Roblero Luis Alberto , Soto-Cajiga Jorge Alberto , Romo-Fuentes Carlos , Martínez-Soto Luis Felipe , Rodríguez-Olivares Noé Amir
Published: October 2024

This document presents the methodology for designing an electrocardiograph capable of acquiring IEC 60601-2-25-compliant signals. The objective of developing this methodology is to address a signal incompatibility problem that has existed in academia for years, specifically in physiological processing research. This problem is related to the signal’s sampling rate and/or noise levels, and it becomes evident when one signal processing method is intended to work with another, either as a subsequent or simultaneous process. Even though matching algorithms can be implemented to remedy this incompatibility problem, the ultimate solution is the standardization of signals, which depends exclusively on the standardization of hardware. The signal incompatibility problem is urgent to solve because it makes the integration and scalability of different academic works difficult, preventing academia from reaching the stage of development that commercial equipment displays in automatic interpretation procedures. The design methodology presented in this document addresses the stated problem by creating an open-source hardware device capable of acquiring compliant signals, with careful consideration given to Signal Integrity and EMC concepts—a methodology that can be extended to other physiological acquisition systems. The expedited availability of the device’s design documentation and fabrication files is also an advantage of this work.
Sentinel-2A Image Reflectance Simulation Method for Estimating the Chlorophyll Content of Larch Needles with Pest Damage
Authors: Yang Le , Huang Xiaojun , Zhou Debao , Zhang Junsheng , Bao Gang , Tong Siqin , Bao Yuhai , Ganbat Dashzebeg , Altanchimeg Dorjsuren , Enkhnasan Davaadorj , Ariunaa Mungunkhuyag
Published: October 2024

With the development of remote sensing technology, the estimation of the chlorophyll content (CHLC) of vegetation via satellite data has become an important means of monitoring vegetation health, and high-precision estimation has been the focus of research in this field. In this study, we used larch affected by Yarl’s larch looper (Erannis jacobsoni Djak) in the boundary region of Mongolia as the research object, simulated the multispectral reflectance, downscaled Sentinel-2A satellite data, performed mixed-pixel decomposition, analyzed the potential of Sentinel-2A satellite data for estimating the chlorophyll content by calculating the spectral indices (SIs) and spectral derivatives (SDFs) of images, and then extracted sensitive spectral features as the model training set. Spectral features sensitive to the chlorophyll content were extracted to establish the training set, and, finally, the chlorophyll content estimation model for larch was constructed on the basis of the partial least squares algorithm (PLSR). The results revealed that SI and SDF based on simulated remote sensing data were highly sensitive to the chlorophyll content under the influence of pests, with the SAVI and EVI2 spectral indices as well as the D_B2 and D_B5 spectral derivatives being the most sensitive to the chlorophyll content. The estimation models based on simulated data performed significantly better than models without simulated data in terms of accuracy, especially those based on SDF-PLSR. The simulated spectral reflectance well reflected the spectral characteristics of the larch canopy and was sensitive to damaged larch, especially in the green light, red edge, and near-infrared bands. The proposed approach improves the accuracy of chlorophyll content estimation via Sentinel-2A data and enhances the ability to monitor changes in the chlorophyll content under complex forest conditions through simulations, providing new technical means and a theoretical basis for forestry pest monitoring and vegetation health management.
Research on the Registration of Aerial Images of Cyclobalanopsis Natural Forest Based on Optimized Fast Sample Consensus Point Matching with SIFT Features
Authors: Wu Peng , Liu Hailong , Yi Xiaomei , Mo Lufeng , Wang Guoying , Ma Shuai
Published: October 2024

The effective management and conservation of forest resources hinge on accurate monitoring. Nonetheless, individual remote-sensing images captured by low-altitude unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) fail to encapsulate the entirety of a forest’s characteristics. The application of image-stitching technology to high-resolution drone imagery facilitates a prompt evaluation of forest resources, encompassing quantity, quality, and spatial distribution. This study introduces an improved SIFT algorithm designed to tackle the challenges of low matching rates and prolonged registration times encountered with forest images characterized by dense textures. By implementing the SIFT-OCT (SIFT omitting the initial scale space) approach, the algorithm bypasses the initial scale space, thereby reducing the number of ineffective feature points and augmenting processing efficiency. To bolster the SIFT algorithm’s resilience against rotation and illumination variations, and to furnish supplementary information for registration even when fewer valid feature points are available, a gradient location and orientation histogram (GLOH) descriptor is integrated. For feature matching, the more computationally efficient Manhattan distance is utilized to filter feature points, which further optimizes efficiency. The fast sample consensus (FSC) algorithm is then applied to remove mismatched point pairs, thus refining registration accuracy. This research also investigates the influence of vegetation coverage and image overlap rates on the algorithm’s efficacy, using five sets of Cyclobalanopsis natural forest images. Experimental outcomes reveal that the proposed method significantly reduces registration time by an average of 3.66 times compared to that of SIFT, 1.71 times compared to that of SIFT-OCT, 5.67 times compared to that of PSO-SIFT, and 3.42 times compared to that of KAZE, demonstrating its superior performance.
Monopoly and Quality Omission
Authors: Gayer Amit
Published: October 2024

This study delves into a market characterized by vertical product differentiation. Product qualities are represented on a one-dimensional interval scale. The research investigates the equilibrium within a monopoly scenario, considering a production cost that is strictly convex. The monopoly offers a strategy comprising various quality–price combinations, with consumer choices determining profits. The analysis involves a comparison between two analogous models: one with a continuous range of consumers and the other with a finite number of consumers. The study explores disparities in the potential for market failure between these two settings. Notably, numerical illustrations underscore these divergences in both market contexts.
Gene Variant Frequencies of IDO1, IDO2, TDO, and KMO in Substance Use Disorder Cohorts
Authors: Contella Lindsey , Farrell Christopher L. , Boccuto Luigi , Litwin Alain , Snyder Marion L.
Published: October 2024

Background: Substance use disorder in the United States represents a complex and growing public health crisis, marked by increasing rates of overdose deaths and the misuse of prescription medications. There is a critical need for furthering the understanding of the molecular and genetic mechanisms that can lead to substance use disorder. Identifying significant variants in the kynurenine pathway could help identify therapeutic targets for intervention. Methods: The All of Us cohort builder evaluated the frequency of variants of four genes, TDO2, IDO1, IDO2, and KMO, encoding enzymes in the kynurenine pathway. The samples were broken into six cohorts: alcohol, cannabis, cocaine, opioid, other use disorder, and control. Using Chi-square analysis, the frequency of at least one copy of a variant allele was calculated. Results: Chi-square analysis showed a significant variation in genetic frequency (p-value < 0.005) in 14 of 18 polymorphisms analyzed. The cocaine cohort had the most significant variants (13), cannabis had 11, opioids had 3, other use disorders had 2, and alcohol had 1 significant variant. Conclusions: This study found associations of polymorphisms in the TDO2, IDO1, IDO2, and KMO genes of individuals with a substance use disorder. These results provide evidence of potential predictors of increased susceptibility to substance use disorder.
Combined Transcriptome and Metabolome Analyses Provide New Insights into the Changes in the Flesh Color of Anthocyanins in Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa (Weston) Duchesne ex Rozier)
Authors: Ren Xiangrong , Sun Meile , Hui Jingtao , Yang Jing , Zhang Jun , Li Pengbing , Lin Guocang
Published: October 2024

Background: Strawberries are bright in color, sweet and sour in taste, and rich in nutrients and flavonoid compounds such as anthocyanins and proanthocyanidins. The synthesis and accumulation of anthocyanins are the decisive factors that make strawberries appear bright red. From the perspective of plant breeding, a change in flesh color is an important goal. Methods: In this study, two strawberry plants with different flesh colors were selected, and transcriptome and metabolome analyses were performed during the color change period (S1) and ripening period (S2). Results: RNA-seq revealed a total of 13,341 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between and within materials, which were clustered into 5 clusters. A total of 695 metabolites were detected via metabolome analysis, and 243 differentially regulated metabolites (DRMs) were identified. The anthocyanin biosynthesis, starch and sucrose metabolism and glycolysis/gluconeogenesis pathways were determined to be important regulatory pathways for changes in strawberry flesh color through a joint analysis of RNA-seq data and the metabolome. The leucoanthocyanidin reductase (LAR) and chalcone synthase (CHS) gene is a key gene related to anthocyanins, cinnamic acid, and phenylalanine. In addition, through joint RNA-seq and metabolome analyses combined with weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), we identified 9 candidate genes related to strawberry flesh color. Conclusions: Our research findings have laid the groundwork for a more comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanisms governing the color transformation in strawberry flesh. Additionally, we have identified novel genetic resources that can be instrumental in advancing research related to strawberry color change.