bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Comparison of Tools That Identify Tumor Cells by Inferring Copy Number Variations from Single-Cell Experiments in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Oketch Daisy J. A. , Giulietti Matteo , Piva Francesco
Published: August 2024

Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) technique has enabled detailed analysis of gene expression at the single cell level, enhancing the understanding of subtle mechanisms that underly pathologies and drug resistance. To derive such biological meaning from sequencing data in oncology, some critical processing must be performed, including identification of the tumor cells by markers and algorithms that infer copy number variations (CNVs). We compared the performance of sciCNV, InferCNV, CopyKAT and SCEVAN tools that identify tumor cells by inferring CNVs from scRNA-seq data. Sequencing data from Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma (PDAC) patients, adjacent and healthy tissues were analyzed, and the predicted tumor cells were compared to those identified by well-assessed PDAC markers. Results from InferCNV, CopyKAT and SCEVAN overlapped by less than 30% with InferCNV showing the highest sensitivity (0.72) and SCEVAN the highest specificity (0.75). We show that the predictions are highly dependent on the sample and the software used, and that they return so many false positives hence are of little use in verifying or filtering predictions made via tumor biomarkers. We highlight how critical this processing can be, warn against the blind use of these software and point out the great need for more reliable algorithms.
BDNF-Regulated Modulation of Striatal Circuits and Implications for Parkinson’s Disease and Dystonia
Authors: Wolf Daniel , Ayon-Olivas Maurilyn , Sendtner Michael
Published: August 2024

Neurotrophins, particularly brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), act as key regulators of neuronal development, survival, and plasticity. BDNF is necessary for neuronal and functional maintenance in the striatum and the substantia nigra, both structures involved in the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s Disease (PD). Depletion of BDNF leads to striatal degeneration and defects in the dendritic arborization of striatal neurons. Activation of tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB) by BDNF is necessary for the induction of long-term potentiation (LTP), a form of synaptic plasticity, in the hippocampus and striatum. PD is characterized by the degeneration of nigrostriatal neurons and altered striatal plasticity has been implicated in the pathophysiology of PD motor symptoms, leading to imbalances in the basal ganglia motor pathways. Given its essential role in promoting neuronal survival and meditating synaptic plasticity in the motor system, BDNF might have an important impact on the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative diseases, such as PD. In this review, we focus on the role of BDNF in corticostriatal plasticity in movement disorders, including PD and dystonia. We discuss the mechanisms of how dopaminergic input modulates BDNF/TrkB signaling at corticostriatal synapses and the involvement of these mechanisms in neuronal function and synaptic plasticity. Evidence for alterations of BDNF and TrkB in PD patients and animal models are reviewed, and the potential of BDNF to act as a therapeutic agent is highlighted. Advancing our understanding of these mechanisms could pave the way toward innovative therapeutic strategies aiming at restoring neuroplasticity and enhancing motor function in these diseases.
A Case with Multiple Pathologies in the Pancreatic Head
Authors: Vujasinovic Miroslav , Ghazi Sam , Kartalis Nikolaos , Gustafsson Liljefors Maria , D’Souza Melroy A. , Ghorbani Poya , Löhr J.-Matthias
Published: August 2024

Objectives: Autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP) type 1, paraduodenal (groove) pancreatitis, and follicular pancreatitis are rare clinical entities whose diagnosis may be challenging, given the potential imaging overlap with pancreatic cancer. Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of the medical chart of a patient with multiple pancreas pathologies. Results: We present a case with multiple pancreas pathologies, including a poorly differentiated ductal adenocarcinoma of pancreatobiliary type, an intraductal papillary mucinous lesion (pre-existing lesion of IPMN type), and an inflammatory process with complex features, in which paraduodenal (groove) pancreatitis, follicular pancreatitis, and IgG4-related pancreatitis (AIP type 1) were also present. Conclusions: The diagnosis of AIP and paraduodenal pancreatitis is not always straightforward, and in some cases, it is not easy to differentiate them from pancreatic cancer. Surgery should be considered in patients when a suspicion of malignant/premalignant lesions cannot be excluded after a complete diagnostic work-up.
Three-Dimensional Finite Element Analysis of Stress Distribution in Dental Implant Prosthesis and Surrounding Bone Using PEEK Abutments
Authors: Hong Min-Ho , Choi Hyunsuk
Published: August 2024

(1) Background: Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) has been used as an alternative to titanium in implant prosthetic systems, but its impact on stress distribution in implant systems needs to be investigated. This study aimed to compare the effect of polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and titanium abutments on implant prosthetic systems and the supporting bone using three-dimensional finite element analysis (FEA). (2) Methods: Three-dimensional finite element analysis was conducted using CATIA V5 and Abaqus V6.12 software to model mandibular first-molar implant systems with titanium and PEEK abutments. Under external loading conditions, finite element analysis was conducted for the stresses in the implant components and surrounding bones of each group. (3) Results: The implant fixture of the PEEK model exhibited the highest von Mises stress (VMS). The lowest VMS was observed in the abutment screw of the titanium model. Both implant systems demonstrated similar stress distributions and magnitudes in cortical and cancellous bones. (4) Conclusion: PEEK abutments show a similar stress distribution in the surrounding bone compared to titanium. However, PEEK absorbs the stresses within the implant system and exhibits the highest VMS values due to its low mechanical and physical properties. Therefore, PEEK abutments need improved mechanical properties for better clinical application.
RETRACTED: Abou-Donia et al. Sex-Based Differences in Plasma Autoantibodies to Central Nervous System Proteins in Gulf War Veterans versus Healthy and Symptomatic Controls. Brain Sci. 2021, 11, 148
Authors: Abou-Donia Mohamed B. , Krengel Maxine H. , Lapadula Elizabeth S. , Zundel Clara G. , LeClair Jessica , Massaro Joseph , Quinn Emily , Conboy Lisa A. , Kokkotou Efi , Nguyen Daniel D. , Abreu Maria , Klimas Nancy G. , Sullivan Kimberly
Published: August 2024

The Brain Sciences Editorial Office retracts the article, “Sex-Based Differences in Plasma Autoantibodies to Central Nervous System Proteins in Gulf War Veterans versus Healthy and Symptomatic Controls” [...]
Consumers’ Psychology Regarding Attachment to Social Media and Usage Frequency: A Mediated-Moderated Model
Authors: Karayalçın Cem , Yaraş Eyyup
Published: August 2024

Although there are studies in the literature investigating the effect of social media marketing activities (SMMAs) on brand equity and purchase intentions, scant information is available regarding consumers’ attachment to social media (ASM) and usage frequency considering the abovementioned variables. Accordingly, one of the main purposes of this study is to investigate the effect of consumers’ ASM on their perceptions of SMMAs. The second main purpose of this study is to test whether social media usage frequency has a moderating effect regarding the impact of perceived SMMAs on brand equity and purchase intentions. Questionnaires were collected face-to-face and a data set of 907 Turkish youth consumers were evaluated. Two major international technology brands were selected for the purposes of this study. Hypotheses were tested using structural equation modeling and the bootstrapping method for mediation analysis. The results showed that ASM and social media usage frequency are distinctive factors in the context of perceived SMMAs. Consumers’ ASM creates a psychological difference that positively affects their perceptions of brands’ SMMAs. Moreover, social media usage frequency negatively moderates the effect of perceived SMMAs on brand equity and purchase intentions. Another important finding is that brand equity partially mediates the impact of perceived SMMAs on purchase intentions. The present article describes the first study to test the effect of consumers’ ASM on perceived SMMAs and to investigate the moderating effect of social media usage frequency regarding the effect of perceived SMMAs on brand equity and purchase intentions. The conceptual framework contains both a mediator and moderator that generated additional insights into the literature regarding the context of this study.
Brief Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Depression and Anxiety in Patients with Schizophrenia in Psychiatric Home Nursing Service: Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Katsushima Masayuki , Shimizu Eiji
Published: August 2024

This pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) aimed to explore whether depression and anxiety could be reduced by psychiatric home nursing supporters offering brief cognitive behavioral therapy for psychosis (CBTp) at home, using a workbook for patients with schizophrenia. Eighteen patients with schizophrenia treated in a psychiatric home nursing service were randomly assigned to two groups: one group received CBTp in addition to usual care (TAU + CBTp group; n = 9) and the other received only usual care (TAU group; n = 9); two patients were excluded due to hospitalization or withdrawal of consent. Eight weekly CBTp sessions were conducted; anxiety/depression, quality of life, self-esteem, and overall functioning were assessed at baseline, week 9, and week 13. There was no significant difference in the primary and secondary evaluations. The effect size was 0.84 for primary evaluation indicating a large effect. This study showed that nurses and occupational therapists can provide CBTp in psychiatric home nursing for patients with schizophrenia to potentially alleviate anxiety and depression compared to standard psychiatric home nursing service alone. Therefore, larger RCTs with larger sample sizes are recommended.
Research on Categorizing and Deriving Proportions of Hanoks for Planning and Designing Hanok Architecture
Authors: Shin Byeong-Uk
Published: August 2024

A Hanok is a representative wooden structure in Korea and is recognized for its environmentally friendly architecture. Since the 2010s, the demand for Hanoks has increased significantly, but new Hanoks tend to be built with only numerical changes to existing plans or only imitate the shape. This is due to the fact that architectural designers do not have systematic training in Hanoks, so they rely on carpenters with extensive experience in Hanok construction. As designers reconfigure Hanok’s floor plan space using existing drawings to accommodate modernization, the building’s form changes as spatial reduction and expansion occur. This change in form creates problems with the proportions of the elements that make up a Hanok, such as the roof being smaller than the body or the building being taller than the scale of the floor plan. A more significant issue is the lack of recognition of the proportion problem. Therefore, this study has a direct role in the systematic design and construction of Hanoks by deriving objective proportions of Hanoks. To increase the objectivity of the data, numerical data of floor plans, cross-sections, and front elevations of national heritage Hanoks with well-preserved traditional shapes were extracted and analyzed for patterns. Subsequently, similar forms were categorized, and ultimately, the plan, section, and elevation proportions were quantified. The results indicated that the plan was characterized by spatial expansion in the X-axis direction more than the Y-axis while maintaining rectangular proportions. The cross-sectional structure showed a change in height depending on the width of the plan, and it was found that the larger the width of the plan, the lower the height ratio of the cross-section. Of particular interest was the analysis of the ratio of exposed area in the elevation, divided into three areas: roof, Gongpo, and the frame, and the interaction between the roof and Gongpo was confirmed within 63.7% of the total exposed area ratio. This result suggests that the proportion of Hanoks exists despite the different scales, times, and locations of Hanoks. This study can serve as a reference for designers in the process of verifying and modifying design drawings, and it is significant in providing a method and direction for building a new dataset for Hanok design.
The Accident Rate in the Construction Sector: A Work Proposal for Its Reduction through the Standardization of Safe Work Processes
Authors: Heredia Morante Rafael Alberto , del Río Merino Mercedes , Ros Serrano Antonio
Published: August 2024

The statistics on work-related accidents published by the responsible organizations reveal that the average rate of work accidents within the construction sector is more than double that in other industrial sectors. This serious problem has been analyzed by numerous international organizations and institutes dedicated to occupational safety, health and welfare. Therefore, in this article, some results of a research project that aims to reduce workplace accidents through the standardization of safe work processes and procedures in construction sites are summarized. The proposed methodology consisted of the analysis of national and international bibliographies to analyze the different annual variations in the accident rate, allowing a common pattern to be located, as well as its association with the work processes carried out in construction projects to standardize each of the processes which are present in the execution and life phases of the building. It is possible to conclude that the accident rates can be reduced and/or eliminated with the application of each of the processes thanks to the obtained results.
Study on the Coupling of Air-Source Heat Pumps (ASHPs) and Passive Heating in Cold Regions
Authors: Jiao Feipeng , Li Guopeng , Zhang Chunjie , Liu Jiyuan
Published: August 2024

Air-source heat pumps (ASHPs), as an active device, are widely used in building heating and cooling processes. However, in severe cold regions, they face reduced heating efficiency and frosting problems in winter. This paper proposes a new heating solution by coupling an ASHP with passive heating systems. It combines an ASHP with passive sunrooms and heat storage systems for heating. Through software simulations and mathematical modeling, the new scheme is compared and analyzed against traditional ASHP solutions to explore the performance of this scheme in rural houses in severe cold regions of China during winter. According to simulation and calculation analysis, on the coldest day of winter, the coupling scheme can provide approximately 99.41 kWh of heat to the indoors, which exceeds the 86.67 kWh required to maintain an indoor temperature of 20 °C. The system’s power consumption is 36.96 kWh, which is 66.88% lower than that of traditional heat pump heating. The study shows that the coupling system of an ASHP and passive heating has a good heating effect in severe cold regions. For the situation of insufficient solar energy at night, the design of phase-change materials and heat storage media can meet heating needs throughout the day.
Axial Compressive Performance of CFRP-Confined Corroded Reinforced Concrete Columns
Authors: Chen Xiaochuan , Xi Banglu , Guo Yang , Liu Hanghang , Xu Dan , Zhang Xun
Published: August 2024

In saline environments, it is difficult for reinforced concrete structures to meet normal durability requirements, which in turn affects the mechanical properties of the members. In this context, this paper proposes a reinforcement method that involves wrapping corroded reinforced concrete columns with CFRP (carbon fiber reinforced polymer) cloth. By conducting axial compression tests on four specimens, key mechanical performance indicators such as failure mode, ductility, and bearing capacity during the entire stress process of the specimens were analyzed, revealing the failure mechanism of CFRP-confined corroded reinforced concrete columns. A refined finite element model of CFRP-confined corroded reinforced concrete columns was established using ABAQUS software. The influence of key parameters such as the number of CFRP wrapping layers, longitudinal reinforcement corrosion rate, and axial compression ratio on the mechanical properties of the specimens was studied, and the influence of each parameter was determined. Furthermore, a formula for the axial compression bearing capacity of CFRP-confined corroded reinforced concrete columns was proposed. The results indicate that in the presence of corroded steel reinforcement, specimens confined with CFRP undergo substantial lateral constraints during the mid to late stages of loading. This approach effectively alleviates the transverse deformation of the concrete. The specimen demonstrated yield bearing capacities and peak loads of 1441 KN and 1934 KN, respectively, representing a 2.2-fold and 2.5-fold increase compared to the non-reinforced specimen. With the increase in the transverse strain of concrete, CFRP begins to play a restraint role, and a more obvious restraint role in the failure stage of members. It is recommended to apply 1–3 layers of CFRP wrapping for a longitudinal reinforcement corrosion rate of 5%, 3–5 layers for a rate of 10%, and 6–8 layers for an overall corrosion rate of 15%. This paper establishes a theoretical framework for investigating the performance characteristics of such columns and offers technical assistance for practical engineering purposes.
Three-Year Analysis of Adjuvant Therapy in Postoperative Melanoma including Acral and Mucosal Subtypes
Authors: Muto Yusuke , Kambayashi Yumi , Kato Hiroshi , Mizuhashi Satoru , Ito Takamichi , Maekawa Takeo , Ishizuki Shoichiro , Uchi Hiroshi , Matsushita Shigeto , Yamamoto Yuki , Yoshino Koji , Fujisawa Yasuhiro , Amagai Ryo , Ohuchi Kentaro , Hashimoto Akira , Fukushima Satoshi , Asano Yoshihide , Fujimura Taku
Published: August 2024

Background: Adjuvant therapy has improved the clinical prognosis for postoperative melanoma patients. However, the long-term efficacy of this therapy on the melanoma acral and mucosal subtypes has not been fully evaluated in previous trials. This study assessed the 3-year recurrence-free survival and overall survival of patients with melanoma, including the acral and mucosal subtypes, treated with anti-PD-1 antibody (Ab) or with the combination of the BRAF and MEK inhibitors dabrafenib and trametinib. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed both the 3-year time to relapse (TTR) and overall survival (OS) of 120 patients treated with anti-PD-1 antibody (Ab), or with the combination of dabrafenib and trametinib. Results: The overall median TTR was 18.4 months, with a range of 0.69 to 36 months. The 3-year TTR of the acral and mucosal types was 28.1% and 38.5%, respectively. Baseline tumor thickness (TT) and acral type were associated with the TTR in subgroup analysis. Moreover, we classified 104 acral and non-acral cutaneous patients into the anti-PD-1 Abs or dabrafenib plus trametinib combined therapies cohort in multiple analyses. The acral subtype and TT were detected as important prognostic factors. In the 3-year OS, only tumor ulceration was associated with the OS in both univariate and multiple analyses. There was no significant difference in baseline or treatment-related factors of the mucosal type (p > 0.05). Conclusion: This study suggests that adjuvant therapy is more effective with non-acral cutaneous melanoma than either the acral or mucosal types at the 3-year TTR endpoint.
Prognostic Significance of EGFR, HER2, and c-Met Overexpression in Surgically Treated Patients with Adenocarcinoma of the Ampulla of Vater
Authors: Park Se Jun , Shin Kabsoo , Hong Tae Ho , Lee Sung Hak , Kim In-Ho , Kim Younghoon , Lee MyungAh
Published: August 2024

Adenocarcinoma of the ampulla of Vater (AAC) is a rare malignancy with heterogeneous tumors arising from various histologic subtypes, necessitating new therapeutic strategies. This study examines epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), and c-Met expression in AAC, given their potential as druggable targets. Among 87 patients who underwent curative resection, EGFR overexpression was found in 87.4%, HER2 in 11.5%, and c-Met in 50%. EGFR overexpression was more common in the pancreatobiliary subtype (p = 0.018) and associated with a higher histologic grade (p = 0.008). HER2 did not correlate with clinicopathological features, while c-Met was more common in node-negative groups (p = 0.004) and often co-expressed with EGFR (p = 0.049). EGFR-positive patients had worse disease-free (HR = 2.89; 95% CI, 1.35–6.20; p = 0.061) and overall survival (HR = 6.89; 95% CI, 2.94–16.2; p = 0.026) than EGFR-negative patients. HER2-positive AAC showed a trend towards shorter survival, although not statistically significant, and c-Met had no impact on survival outcomes. In the context of systemic disease, survival outcomes did not vary according to EGFR, HER2, and c-Met expression, but the HER2-positive group showed a trend towards inferior progression-free survival (HR = 1.90; 95% CI, 0.56–6.41; p = 0.166). This study underscores the potential of EGFR, HER2, and c-Met as targets for personalized therapy in AAC, warranting further research to evaluate targeted treatments.
NRG1 Gene Fusions—What Promise Remains Behind These Rare Genetic Alterations? A Comprehensive Review of Biology, Diagnostic Approaches, and Clinical Implications
Authors: Kucharczyk Tomasz , Nicoś Marcin , Kucharczyk Marek , Kalinka Ewa
Published: August 2024

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) presents a variety of druggable genetic alterations that revolutionized the treatment approaches. However, identifying new alterations may broaden the group of patients benefitting from such novel treatment options. Recently, the interest focused on the neuregulin-1 gene (NRG1), whose fusions may have become a potential predictive factor. To date, the occurrence of NRG1 fusions has been considered a negative prognostic marker in NSCLC treatment; however, many premises remain behind the targetability of signaling pathways affected by the NRG1 gene. The role of NRG1 fusions in ErbB-mediated cell proliferation especially seems to be considered as a main target of treatment. Hence, NSCLC patients harboring NRG1 fusions may benefit from targeted therapies such as pan-HER family inhibitors, which have shown efficacy in previous studies in various cancers, and anti-HER monoclonal antibodies. Considering the increased interest in the NRG1 gene as a potential clinical target, in the following review, we highlight its biology, as well as the potential clinical implications that were evaluated in clinics or remained under consideration in clinical trials.
Correlation between Zeolitic SiO2/Al2O3 Ratio and the Low-Temperature NOx Adsorption Capacity of Pd/SSZ-13 under Realistic Exhaust Conditions
Authors: Ren Dezhi , Zhu Jingfang , Dai Xin , Chang Shiying , Yu Fei , Yang Dongxia , Zhao Yunkun
Published: August 2024

Passive NOx adsorber (PNA) is one of the important means to effectively reduce NOx emission control in the cold start of a diesel engine. A series of Pd/SSZ-13 catalysts with different SiO2/Al2O3 ratios (11, 17, and 25) were prepared using the impregnation method. Furthermore, the effect of the SiO2/Al2O3 ratio on the adsorption performance of Pd/SSZ-13 at low-temperature NOx under realistic exhaust conditions was studied. The results show that the Pd/SSZ-13 catalyst with a low SiO2/Al2O3 ratio after loading Pd has a higher specific surface area and palladium ion content. There is a negative correlation between NOx adsorption performance and the SiO2/Al2O3 ratio. After high-temperature heat treatment, the acid sites closely related to palladium species increase and palladium species will redisperse, producing more palladium ions. The palladium ions coexist in Pd/SSZ-13 in the form of Pd2+ and Pd+, among which Pd2+ is divided into two types: Z−Pd2+Z− and Z−[Pd(II)OH]+. The NOx adsorption performance of the Pd/SSZ-13 catalyst was significantly improved, and the higher the SiO2/Al2O3 ratio, the more obviously the advantage of NOx adsorption performance increased after heat treatment. The NOx adsorption kinetic model of the Pd/SSZ-13 catalyst under realistic exhaust conditions was most suitably described by the pseudo-first-order model.
Enhanced Catalytic Synthesis of Flavonoid by UV-B Radiation in Artemisia argyi
Authors: Gu Haike , Liu Shuang , Li Guoyu , Hou Li , Shen Tengyuan , Song Meifang , Liu Junfeng
Published: August 2024

Enzymatic synthesis of specific active substances is an important foundation for biological adaptations to various stresses. In this study, we investigated the metabolic response of the medicinal herb Artemisia argyi to UV-B radiation through transcriptome and metabolome analysis. In all tested samples, there were 544 shared differentially expressed genes, most of which were linked to the metabolism of flavonoids and fatty acids. A total of 283 differential metabolites were identified and classified into 10 categories, with flavonoids being the largest category. Through an integrated analysis of genes and metabolites involved in flavonoid biosynthesis, flavonoids were predicted to be critical for the adaptation of A. argyi to UV radiation. The increased plant hormones methyl jasmonate and salicylic acid were considered as key regulatory approaches for catalyzing the large-scale synthesis of flavonoids. We explored this by investigating the flavonoid production of A. argyi grown at different altitudes. It showed that total flavonoid content of A. argyi planted in high-altitude areas was 45% higher than that in low-altitude areas. These findings not only deepen our understanding of flavonoid anabolism and its regulation but also provide a reliable strategy for improving flavonoid content in the genus Artemisia.
A Kinetic Model for Catalytic N-Butane Oxidative Dehydrogenation under Oxygen-Free Reaction Conditions in a Fluidized CREC Riser Simulator
Authors: Bin Sulayman Abdulhamid , de Lasa Hugo
Published: August 2024

This study considers the development of a kinetic model for the n-butane oxidative dehydrogenation (ODH) to C4-olefins using a VOx/MgO−γAl2O3 catalyst. The prepared catalyst contained 5 wt% V on an MgO modified γAl2O3 support. The developed catalyst exhibited both weak and medium acid sites, as revealed by NH3-temperature-programmed desorption. TPR/TPO analyses also indicated that 73% of the loaded VOx was reducible. Kinetic experiments were conducted in a fluidized CREC Riser Simulator at temperatures ranging from 475–550 °C and residence times of 5–20 s. An optimal C4-olefin selectivity of 86% was achieved at 500 °C and 10 s, with this selectivity then decreasing at higher temperatures and longer residence times. The kinetic model developed involved a Langmuir–Hinshelwood-type of kinetics that incorporated cracking, oxydehydrogenation, and complete oxidation reactions. Model parameters were determined by fitting experimental data with kinetic parameters established with narrow 95% confidence intervals and low cross-correlation.
Metal–Organic Framework-Derived Rare Earth Metal (Ce-N-C)-Based Catalyst for Oxygen Reduction Reactions in Dual-Chamber Microbial Fuel Cells
Authors: Ashmath Shaik , Wu Hao , Peera Shaik Gouse , Lee Tae-Gwan
Published: August 2024

Pt supported on carbon (Pt/C) is deemed as the state-of-the-art catalyst towards oxygen reduction reactions (ORRs) in chemical and biological fuel cells. However, due to the high cost and scarcity of Pt, researchers have focused on the development of Earth-abundant non-precious metal catalysts, hoping to replace the traditional Pt/C catalyst and successfully commercialize the chemical and biological fuel cells. In this regard, electrocatalysts made of transition metals emerged as excellent candidates for ORRs, especially the electrocatalysts made of Fe and Co in combination with N-doped carbons, which produce potentially active M-N4-C (M=Co, Fe) ORR sites. At present, however, the transition metal-based catalysts are popular; recently, electrocatalysts made of rare earth metals are emerging as efficient catalysts, due to the fact that rare earth metals also have the potential to form rare earth metal-N4-C active sites, just like transition metal Fe-N4-C/Co-N4-C. In addition, mixed valance states and uniqueness of f-orbitals of the rare earth metals are believed to improve the redox properties of the catalyst that helps in enhancing ORR activity. Among the rare earth metals, Ce is the most interesting element that can be explored as an ORR electrocatalyst in combination with the N-doped carbon. Unique f-orbitals of Ce can induce distinctive electronic behavior to the catalyst that helps to form stable coordination structures with N-doped carbons, in addition to its excellent ability to scavenge the OH● produced during ORRs, therefore helping in catalyst stability. In this study, we have synthesized Ce/N-C catalysts by a metal–organic framework and pyrolysis strategy. The ORR activity of Ce/N-C catalysts has been optimized by systematically increasing the Ce content and performing RDE studies in 0.1 M HClO4 electrolyte. The Ce/N-C catalyst has been characterized systematically by both physicochemical and electrochemical characterizations. The optimized Ce/N-C-3 catalyst exhibited a half-wave potential of 0.68 V vs. RHE. In addition, the Ce/N-C-3 catalyst also delivered acceptable stability with a loss of 70 mV in its half-wave potential when compared to 110 mV loss for Pt/C (10 wt.%) catalyst, after 5000 potential cycles. When Ce/N-C-3 is used as a cathode catalyst in dual-chamber microbial fuel cells, it delivered a volumetric power density of ~300 mW m−3, along with an organic matter degradation of 74% after continuous operation of DCMFCs for 30 days.
RNAseq of Gingival Fibroblasts Exposed to PRF Membrane Lysates and PRF Serum
Authors: Imani Atefe , Panahipour Layla , Kühtreiber Hannes , Mildner Michael , Gruber Reinhard
Published: August 2024

Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is prepared by spontaneous coagulation of fractionated blood. When squeezed between two plates, PRF is separated into solid PRF membranes and a liquid exudate, the PRF serum. The question arises regarding how much the overall activity remains in the PRF membranes and what is discarded into the PRF serum. To this end, we have exposed gingival fibroblasts to lysates prepared from PRF membranes and PRF serum, followed by bulk RNA sequencing. A total of 268 up- and 136 down-regulated genes in gingival fibroblasts exposed to PRF membrane lysates were significantly regulated under the premise of a minimum log2 with 2.5-fold change and a minus log10 significance level of two, respectively. PRF serum only caused 62 up- and 32 down-regulated genes under these conditions. Among the 46 commonly up-regulated genes were CXCL1, CXCL5, CXCL6, CXCL8, IL33, IL6, and PTGS2/COX2, stanniocalcin-1—all linked to an inflammatory response. PRF membrane lysates further increased chemokines CCL2, CCL7, CXCL2, CXCL3, and IL1R1, IL1RL1, and IL1RN, as well as the paracrine factors IL11, LIF, IGF1, BMP2, BMP6, FGF2, and CCN2/CTGF, and all hyaluronan synthases. On the other hand, PRF serum increased DKK1. The genes commonly down-regulated by PRF membrane lysates and PRF serum included interferon-induced protein with tetratricopeptide repeats (IFIT1, IFIT2, IFIT3) and odd-skipped-related transcription factors (OSR1 and OSR2), as well as FGF18 and GDF15, respectively. Taken together, PRF membrane lysates, compared to PRF serum, cause a more complex response in gingival fibroblasts, but each increased chemokine expression in gingival fibroblasts.
A Deep Learning Approach to Investigating Clandestine Laboratories Using a GC-QEPAS Sensor
Authors: Felizzato Giorgio , Liberatore Nicola , Mengali Sandro , Viola Roberto , Moriggia Vittorio , Romolo Francesco Saverio
Published: August 2024

Illicit drug production in clandestine laboratories involves the use of large quantities of different chemicals that can be obtained for legitimate purposes. The identification of these chemicals, including reagents, catalyzers and solvents, is crucial for forensic investigations. From a legal point of view, a drug precursor is a material that is specific and critical to the production of a finished chemical and that constitutes a significant portion of the final molecular structure of the drug. In this study, a gas chromatography quartz-enhanced photoacoustic spectroscopy (GC-QEPAS) sensor—in conjunction with a deep learning model—was evaluated for its effectiveness in the detection and identification of interesting compounds for the production of amphetamine, methamphetamine, 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), phenylcyclohexyl piperidine (PCP), and cocaine. The GC-QEPAS sensor includes a gas sampler, a fast GC for separation, and a QEPAS detector, which excites molecules exiting the GC column using a quantum cascade laser to provide the infra-red (IR) spectrum. The on-site capability of the GC-QEPAS system offers significant advantages over the current instruments employed in this field, including rapid analysis, which is crucial in field operations. This allows law enforcement to quickly identify specimens of interest on site. The system’s performance was validated by taking into account the limit of detection, repeatability, and within-laboratory reproducibility. The results showed excellent repeatability and reproducibility for both the GC and QEPAS modules. The deep learning model, a multilayer perceptron neural network, was trained using IR spectra and retention times, achieving very high classification accuracy in the testing conditions. This study demonstrated the efficacy of the GC-QEPAS sensor combined with a deep learning model for the reliable identification of drug precursors, providing a robust tool for law enforcement during criminal investigations in clandestine laboratories.
Child Migrants in Family Detention in the US: Addressing Fragmented Care
Authors: Sridhar Shela , Digidiki Vasileia , Ratner Leah , Kunichoff Dennis , Gartland Matthew G.
Published: August 2024

Background/Objectives: Migrant children in family detention facilities often experience frequent relocations and prolonged stays in precarious living conditions. This frequent relocation results in fragmentation of necessary medical care, leading to delays and inadequate medical care. We aim to highlight the critical need for comprehensive medical documentation in immigration detention facilities, a fragmented health care system and potential harm to these children without appropriate medical documentation. Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of 165 medical records from children detained at the Karnes County Family Residential Center between June 2018 and October 2020 to evaluate the adequacy of pediatric medical documentation in an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) family detention facility. Specific areas of interest included acute care, nutrition, immunization, developmental screening, and tuberculosis screening. Simple descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data. Results: Only 25% of 418 acute medical care visits included specific diagnoses. There was no documentation regarding follow-up recommendations upon release. 97% of children had a chest X-ray completed for tuberculosis screening, however no follow-up recommendations were documented for those with granulomas. Vaccination histories were inconsistently documented. No nutritional categorizations were completed despite 16% of children being at risk for malnutrition or already malnourished. Conclusions: Our findings revealed significant gaps in documentation, particularly in medical decision-making and clinical reasoning. In a fragmented medical system, inadequate documentation can result in avoidable errors in diagnosis and management. Improving documentation practices is crucial to ensure that all children, regardless of immigration status, receive quality healthcare aligned with national and international standards.
EOFA: An Extended Version of the Optimal Foraging Algorithm for Global Optimization Problems
Authors: Kyrou Glykeria , Charilogis Vasileios , Tsoulos Ioannis G.
Published: August 2024

The problem of finding the global minimum of a function is applicable to a multitude of real-world problems and, hence, a variety of computational techniques have been developed to efficiently locate it. Among these techniques, evolutionary techniques, which seek, through the imitation of natural processes, to efficiently obtain the global minimum of multidimensional functions, play a central role. An evolutionary technique that has recently been introduced is the Optimal Foraging Algorithm, which is a swarm-based algorithm, and it is notable for its reliability in locating the global minimum. In this work, a series of modifications are proposed that aim to improve the reliability and speed of the above technique, such as a termination technique based on stochastic observations, an innovative sampling method and a technique to improve the generation of offspring. The new method was tested on a series of problems from the relevant literature and a comparative study was conducted against other global optimization techniques with promising results.
Assessing the Intention to Use a First-Generation Vaccine against COVID-19 Using Quantile Regression: A Cross-Sectional Study in Spain
Authors: de Andrés-Sánchez Jorge , Arias-Oliva Mario , Pelegrín-Borondo Jorge
Published: August 2024

Understanding the factors that influence the intention to use vaccines is crucial for implementing effective public health policies. This study examined the impact of various cognitive, affective, normative, and sociodemographic variables on the intention to be vaccinated against COVID-19 with the first-generation AstraZeneca vaccine. A survey of 600 residents of Spain was used to assess the influence and hierarchy of the drivers of the intention to vaccinate via least-squares and quantile regressions. The most significant factors were the perceptions of efficacy and social influence, both of which had positive impacts (p < 0.0001). The positive influence of fear of COVID-19 and the negative influence of fear of the vaccine were also significant in shaping the central tendency toward vaccination. However, these fear-related variables, particularly the fear of COVID-19, lost importance in quantile adjustments outside the central tendency. Among the sociodemographic variables, only the negative impact of income was statistically significant. These results are valuable for the development of vaccination policies because they measure the sensitivity of attitudes toward vaccination to exogenous variables not only in the central values, as is common in similar studies, but also across the entire range of responses regarding the intention to vaccinate. This additional analysis, which is not commonly performed in studies on vaccine acceptance, allows us to distinguish between variables which are consistently related to the intention to vaccinate and those that influence only expected responses.
Indirect Effects of Cattle Trampling on the Structure of Fruit-Feeding Butterfly Assemblages Inhabiting Restinga Forests in Southern Brazil
Authors: Iserhard Cristiano Agra , Schwantz Taiane , Gallo Mariana Centeno , Gottschalk Marco Silva , Bordin Kauane Maiara
Published: August 2024

The impacts of anthropogenic activities are increasing at alarming rates, leading to biodiversity loss and the displacement of native habitats. One of the main contributors to human disturbances is livestock farming, which degrades native habitats through cattle grazing and trampling. To understand these impacts, we investigated the effects of cattle trampling on the structure and diversity of fruit-feeding butterflies in Restinga forests of southern Brazil. We addressed questions regarding the effects of cattle raising on butterfly diversity and composition, identified indicator species, and examined the influence of environmental variables on butterfly richness, dominance, abundance, and species composition. Our dataset comprises the long-term monitoring of fruit-feeding butterflies in Restinga forests from 2014 to 2019, across sites with low, medium, and high levels of disturbance due to cattle trampling. We found that medium and high levels of disturbance increased butterfly richness and abundance, whereas low-level disturbance was associated with lower abundance. Additionally, the species composition of butterflies in medium to highly disturbed sites differed from that in preserved Restinga forests, indicating that any perturbation can markedly alter alpha and beta diversity parameters. These changes simplify the native forest structure, open the canopy, disrupt the understory, and favor butterfly species commonly associated with disturbed forests.
One Genome, Multiple Phenotypes: Would Rhodnius milesi Carcavallo, Rocha, Galvão & Jurberg, 2001 (Hemiptera, Triatominae) Be a Valid Species or a Phenotypic Polymorphism of R. neglectus Lent, 1954?
Authors: Campos Fabricio Ferreira , de Oliveira Jader , Santos Santana Jociel Klleyton , Ravazi Amanda , dos Reis Yago Visinho , Marson Marquioli Laura , Galvão Cleber , de Azeredo-Oliveira Maria Tercília Vilela , Aristeu da Rosa João , Alevi Kaio Cesar Chaboli
Published: August 2024

Species of the Rhodnius genus have a complex taxonomy because the events of phenotypic plasticity and cryptic speciation make it difficult to correctly classify these vectors. During the taxonomic history of the genus, five synonymization events occurred. Additionally, some authors suggest that R. milesi possibly represent only phenotypic polymorphisms of R. neglectus. Thus, we analyzed the specific status of R. milesi in relation to R. neglectus using phylogenetic studies with the mitochondrial gene cytochrome B and the study of reproductive barriers. The phylogenetic reconstruction grouped R. milesi together with R. neglectus from different localities, demonstrating that these taxa represent the same species based on the phylogenetic species concept. Experimental crosses demonstrate the absence of pre- and postzygotic barriers under laboratory conditions. Additionally, when the hatch rates of crosses are compared to intraspecific crosses, it can be noted that they are high and very similar. Finally, the mortality rate of the hybrids does not indicate hybrid inviability, the absence of chromosome pairing errors does not indicate hybrid sterility, and the proportion between male and female hybrids demonstrates that Haldane’s rule was not acting. Therefore, we perform the formal synonymization of R. milesi with R. neglectus.
Prognostic Utility of dNLR, ALRI, APRI, and SII in COVID-19 Patients with Diabetes: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Danila Alexandra Ioana , Cioca Flavius , Gadde Sai Teja , Daruvuri Sai Praveen , Timar Romulus , Hogea Elena
Published: August 2024

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has necessitated the identification of biomarkers that can predict disease severity, particularly in vulnerable populations such as individuals with diabetes. This study aims to evaluate the predictive value of inflammatory and liver function markers, specifically derived Neutrophil to Lymphocyte Ratio (dNLR), aspartate aminotransferase (AST)-to-lymphocyte ratio (ALRI), AST to Platelet Ratio Index (APRI), and Systemic Inflammation Index (SII), in COVID-19 patients with and without diabetes. This cross-sectional study included 336 participants, comprising 168 patients with diabetes matched with 168 without, based on gender, body mass index (BMI), and COVID-19 severity at hospitalization. The study was conducted at Victor Babes Hospital for Infectious Diseases and Pulmonology from January 2021 to December 2023. All participants had a confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection and met the inclusion criteria of being 18 years or older with type 1 or type 2 diabetes as per American Diabetes Association guidelines. At 3 days post symptom onset, significant differences in inflammatory and liver function markers were observed between the two groups. The dNLR, ALRI, APRI, and SII were notably higher in diabetic patients. At a dNLR cutoff of 2.685, the sensitivity and specificity were 70.312% and 65.978%, respectively, with an AUC of 0.624 (p < 0.001). The ALRI showed a cutoff of 0.812, with a sensitivity of 76.429% and specificity of 69.541% (AUC 0.752, p < 0.001). These markers demonstrated statistically significant hazard ratios at both 3 and 7 days, indicating their predictive relevance for severe COVID-19 outcomes. For instance, at 7 days, SII demonstrated a hazard ratio of 2.62 (CI: 1.29–5.04, p < 0.001), highlighting its strong prognostic capability. The study successfully identified significant differences in inflammatory and liver function markers between COVID-19 patients with and without diabetes, with these markers showing good predictive value for disease severity. The results underscore the potential of these biomarkers, particularly ALRI and SII, as valuable tools in managing COVID-19, aiding in the timely identification of patients at increased risk of severe outcomes.
Evaluation of the Alveolar Crest and Cemento-Enamel Junction in Periodontitis Using Object Detection on Periapical Radiographs
Authors: Lin Tai-Jung , Mao Yi-Cheng , Lin Yuan-Jin , Liang Chin-Hao , He Yi-Qing , Hsu Yun-Chen , Chen Shih-Lun , Chen Tsung-Yi , Chen Chiung-An , Li Kuo-Chen , Abu Patricia Angela R.
Published: August 2024

The severity of periodontitis can be analyzed by calculating the loss of alveolar crest (ALC) level and the level of bone loss between the tooth’s bone and the cemento-enamel junction (CEJ). However, dentists need to manually mark symptoms on periapical radiographs (PAs) to assess bone loss, a process that is both time-consuming and prone to errors. This study proposes the following new method that contributes to the evaluation of disease and reduces errors. Firstly, innovative periodontitis image enhancement methods are employed to improve PA image quality. Subsequently, single teeth can be accurately extracted from PA images by object detection with a maximum accuracy of 97.01%. An instance segmentation developed in this study accurately extracts regions of interest, enabling the generation of masks for tooth bone and tooth crown with accuracies of 93.48% and 96.95%. Finally, a novel detection algorithm is proposed to automatically mark the CEJ and ALC of symptomatic teeth, facilitating faster accurate assessment of bone loss severity by dentists. The PA image database used in this study, with the IRB number 02002030B0 provided by Chang Gung Medical Center, Taiwan, significantly reduces the time required for dental diagnosis and enhances healthcare quality through the techniques developed in this research.
A Content Analysis of the Algebra Strand of Six Commercially Available U.S. High School Textbook Series
Authors: Huntley Mary Ann , Terrell Maria S. , Fonger Nicole L.
Published: August 2024

Algebra as a school subject is ill defined. Students experience algebra quite differently depending on the perspective of algebra taken by authors of the textbooks from which they learn. Through a content analysis of problems (n = 63,174) in the narrative and homework sections of six high school mathematics textbook series published in the U.S., we acquired systematic and reliable information about the algebra strand (i.e., symbolic algebra and functions) of each textbook series. We introduce plots to show the density, distribution, and sequencing of content, and present analyses of data for cognitive behavior, real-world context, technology, and manipulatives. Feedback on this study from an author of each textbook series is shared, and findings are discussed in terms of students’ opportunities to learn.