bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermogenic Fat as a New Obesity Management Tool: From Pharmaceutical Reagents to Cell Therapies
Authors: Cheng Ying , Liang Shiqing , Zhang Shuhan , Hui Xiaoyan
Published: July 2024

Obesity is a complex medical condition caused by a positive imbalance between calorie intake and calorie consumption. Brown adipose tissue (BAT), along with the newly discovered “brown-like” adipocytes (called beige cells), functions as a promising therapeutic tool to ameliorate obesity and metabolic disorders by burning out extra nutrients in the form of heat. Many studies in animal models and humans have proved the feasibility of this concept. In this review, we aim to summarize the endeavors over the last decade to achieve a higher number/activity of these heat-generating adipocytes. In particular, pharmacological compounds, especially agonists to the β3 adrenergic receptor (β3-AR), are reviewed in terms of their feasibility and efficacy in elevating BAT function and improving metabolic parameters in human subjects. Alternatively, allograft transplantation of BAT and the transplantation of functional brown or beige adipocytes from mesenchymal stromal cells or human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) make it possible to increase the number of these beneficial adipocytes in patients. However, practical and ethical issues still need to be considered before the therapy can eventually be applied in the clinical setting. This review provides insights and guidance on brown- and beige-cell-based strategies for the management of obesity and its associated metabolic comorbidities.
Endometriosis: A Comprehensive Analysis of the Pathophysiology, Treatment, and Nutritional Aspects, and Its Repercussions on the Quality of Life of Patients
Authors: Cano-Herrera Gabriela , Salmun Nehmad Sylvia , Ruiz de Chávez Gascón Jimena , Méndez Vionet Amairani , van Tienhoven Ximena A. , Osorio Martínez María Fernanda , Muleiro Alvarez Mauricio , Vasco Rivero Mariana Ximena , López Torres María Fernanda , Barroso Valverde María Jimena , Noemi Torres Isabel , Cruz Olascoaga Alexa , Bautista Gonzalez Maria Fernanda , Sarkis Nehme José Antonio , Vélez Rodríguez Ignacio , Murguiondo Pérez Renata , Salazar Felipe Esparza , Sierra Bronzon Ana Gabriela , Rivera Rosas Eder Gabriel , Carbajal Ocampo Dante , Cabrera Carranco Ramiro
Published: July 2024

Endometriosis is a chronic proinflammatory pathology characterized by the growth of tissue similar to the endometrium outside the uterus, affecting approximately 5 to 15% of women worldwide. Suffering from endometriosis entails a complex pathophysiological process, significantly impacting the quality of life and reproductive function of affected women; therefore, it must be addressed in a personalized and comprehensive manner, as its management requires a multidisciplinary approach. This article aims to conduct a comprehensive literature review of endometriosis, not only as a pathophysiological condition but also as a significant factor impacting the social, nutritional, and mental well-being of those who experience it. Emphasis is placed on the importance of understanding and assessing the impact of the pathology to provide a better and more comprehensive approach, integrating various alternatives and strategic treatments for the factors involved in its development. The aim is to provide a complete overview of endometriosis, from its pathophysiology to its impact on the quality of life of patients, as well as a review of current treatment options, both pharmacological and alternative, in order to broaden the perspective on the pathology to improve the care of patients with this disease.
The Effect of Hindwing Trajectories on Wake–Wing Interactions in the Configuration of Two Flapping Wings in Tandem
Authors: He Xu , Wang Chao , Jia Pan , Zhong Zheng
Published: July 2024

The present investigations on tandem wing configurations primarily revolve around the effects of the spacing L and the phase difference φ between the forewing and the hindwing on aerodynamic performance. However, in nature, organisms employing biplane flight, such as dragonflies, demonstrate the ability to achieve superior aerodynamic performance by flexibly adjusting their flapping trajectories. Therefore, this study focuses on the effects of φ, as well as the trajectory of the hindwing, on aerodynamic performance. By summarizing four patterns of wake–wing interaction processes, it is indicated that φ=−90∘ and 0∘ enhances the thrust of the hindwing, while φ=90∘ and 180∘ result in reductions. Furthermore, the wake–wing interactions and shedding modes are summarized corresponding to three kinds of trajectories, including elliptical trajectories, figure-eight trajectories, and double figure-eight trajectories. The results show that the aerodynamic performance of the elliptical trajectory is similar to that of the straight trajectory, while the figure-eight trajectory with positive surging motion significantly enhances the aerodynamic performance of the hindwing. Conversely, the double-figure-eight trajectory degrades the aerodynamic performance of the hindwing.
Radiomics-Guided Deep Learning Networks Classify Differential Diagnosis of Parkinsonism
Authors: Ling Ronghua , Wang Min , Lu Jiaying , Wu Shaoyou , Wu Ping , Ge Jingjie , Wang Luyao , Liu Yingqian , Jiang Juanjuan , Shi Kuangyu , Yan Zhuangzhi , Zuo Chuantao , Jiang Jiehui
Published: July 2024

The differential diagnosis between atypical Parkinsonian syndromes may be challenging and critical. We aimed to proposed a radiomics-guided deep learning (DL) model to discover interpretable DL features and further verify the proposed model through the differential diagnosis of Parkinsonian syndromes. We recruited 1495 subjects for 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (18F-FDG PET) scanning, including 220 healthy controls and 1275 patients diagnosed with idiopathic Parkinson’s disease (IPD), multiple system atrophy (MSA), or progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP). Baseline radiomics and two DL models were developed and tested for the Parkinsonian diagnosis. The DL latent features were extracted from the last layer and subsequently guided by radiomics. The radiomics-guided DL model outperformed the baseline radiomics approach, suggesting the effectiveness of the DL approach. DenseNet showed the best diagnosis ability (sensitivity: 95.7%, 90.1%, and 91.2% for IPD, MSA, and PSP, respectively) using retained DL features in the test dataset. The retained DL latent features were significantly associated with radiomics features and could be interpreted through biological explanations of handcrafted radiomics features. The radiomics-guided DL model offers interpretable high-level abstract information for differential diagnosis of Parkinsonian disorders and holds considerable promise for personalized disease monitoring.
Research on Predicting the Turnover of Graduates Using an Enhanced Random Forest Model
Authors: Liu Min , Yang Bo , Song Yuhang
Published: July 2024

The frequent turnover of college graduates is a key factor leading to the frictional unemployment and structural unemployment of youth, which are important research fields concerned with pedagogy, sociology, and management; however, there is little research on the prediction of college graduates’ turnover. Therefore, this study investigated the turnover status of 17,268 college graduates from 52 universities in China, constructed and optimized a random forest model for predicting the turnover of college graduates, and analyzed the influencing mechanism of college graduates’ turnover and the importance of influencing factors. The enhanced random forest model could deal with the unbalanced data and has a higher prediction accuracy as well as stronger generalization ability in predicting the turnover of college graduates. Individual background variables, job characteristic variables, and work environment variables are all important factors influencing whether college graduates resign or not. The top five factors that affect the turnover of college graduates by more than 10% are income level, job satisfaction degree, job opportunities, and job matching degree. The conclusion of this study is conducive to improving the accuracy of turnover prediction, systematically exploring the influencing factors of college graduates’ turnover, and effectively guaranteeing the overall stability of youth employment.
Analysis of Teacher Self-Efficacy and Its Impact on Sustainable Well-Being at Work
Authors: Arias-Pastor Mercedes , Van Vaerenbergh Steven , González-Bernal Jerónimo J. , González-Santos Josefa
Published: July 2024

This study evaluates teacher self-efficacy perceptions among students in the Master’s Degree in Secondary Education and Baccalaureate, Vocational Training, and Language Teaching (MDSE), as well as the variables influencing these perceptions and their connection to the program’s training. The research sheds light on how self-efficacy affects views on concerns, feelings, and attitudes towards diversity and inclusive education in the current educational landscape. Out of 205 female and 100 male MDSE students surveyed, who are either graduates or nearing completion, data were gathered using the “Teacher Education in Secondary Education: Key Elements for Teaching in an Inclusive School for All” (FORPES-IN) questionnaire distributed across Spanish universities. Three primary instruments from the questionnaire were utilized: the Teachers’ Self-Efficacy Short Form (TSES-SF), the Questionnaire for Future Secondary Education Teachers regarding Perceptions of Diversity, and the Revised Scale of Feelings, Attitudes, and Concerns about Inclusive Education (SACIE-R). Findings suggest that the majority of prospective teachers exhibit moderate-to-high levels of self-efficacy. Variables such as non-formal teaching experiences, the reason for joining the MDSE program, and regular interactions with vulnerable individuals, especially in Social and Health Science domains, moderately influence self-efficacy. This study reveals a strong link between the received training and the perceived level of self-efficacy. In particular, participants with higher self-efficacy feel better equipped to handle classroom diversity and rate the MDSE program positively. Areas for enhancement are identified, such as classroom management and diversified assessment strategies. Finally, a positive correlation is observed between high self-efficacy and positive attitudes toward disability, inclusive education principles, and reduced apprehensions about inclusive teaching.
Interrelationships among College Students’ Perceptions of Smart Classroom Environments, Perceived Usefulness of Mobile Technology, Achievement Emotions, and Cognitive Engagement
Authors: Ma Yunpeng , Zuo Mingzhang , Gao Ruiyang , Yan Yujie , Luo Heng
Published: July 2024

Cognitive engagement is a crucial factor that shapes successful learning outcomes, but our understanding of the factors that influence such engagement in the smart classroom context remains limited. This study aims to narrow this research gap by exploring the relationships among college students’ perceptions of the smart learning environment, perceived usefulness of mobile technology, achievement emotions, and cognitive engagement. A total of 1293 college students completed an online questionnaire survey, and 1076 valid responses were received. Structural equation modeling was used to analyze the interrelationships among these factors. The results revealed that students’ perceptions of the smart classroom environment and perceived usefulness of mobile technology as well as two achievement emotions (pride and anxiety) significantly impact cognitive engagement. Both pride and anxiety act as mediators in the relationships among perceptions of smart classroom environments, the perceived usefulness of mobile technology, and cognitive engagement, in which context the mediating effect of pride is stronger than that of anxiety. These findings have practical implications for instructors, who should focus on implementing strategies that promote positive achievement emotions when students use mobile technology in smart classrooms. Additionally, these findings can inform the design and construction of smart classroom environments. Moreover, our study has limitations due to reliance on online data collection and self-reported data, which may introduce biases and measurement errors. Future research should incorporate multimodal data and advanced technologies for a comprehensive assessment to better understand students’ engagement in smart learning environments, while also considering individual factors and the educational context to enhance the effectiveness of mobile technology in supporting students’ emotions and achievement.
Situational Management and Digital Situational Awareness Systems in Infrastructure Construction: Managerial Perspectives on Relevance, Challenges, and Adoption
Authors: Lappalainen Eelon , Uusitalo Petri , Seppänen Olli , Peltokorpi Antti , Reinbold Ana , Ainamo Antti , Görsch Christopher , Nyqvist Roope
Published: July 2024

Currently, digital situational awareness systems are popular in complex infrastructure construction projects. These systems monitor and assess environmental events, progress, resource availability, risks, and other project decision-making variables to support decision-making. However, little is known about how infrastructure construction (IC) professionals who utilize situational awareness systems perceive how they support or hinder situational management. The purpose of this exploratory research is to study, in depth, the relevance, challenges, and adoption of situational management in IC projects using digital systems. The data were collected via semistructured interviews with 21 IC managers and situational awareness management experts from 11 companies involved in railway projects. The main findings indicate that problem-solving improved with situational management in general, especially with digital situational awareness systems. Seizing the possibilities for transparency that accompany digital situational awareness systems helped in discussing emerging problems and making project choices. Expectations about the realism of such expectations were easier to align with historical event data. On the other hand, the informants reported difficulty in motivating contractors to collect situational data in digital form, possibly because of a lack of understanding about the purpose of data collection, the manual nature of data collection, the perceived excessiveness of data collection, or the manual transfer of collected data into digital form. For these reasons, the informants reported limited faith in these systems. A perceived drawback of situational management, whether supported by digital situational awareness systems or not, was its lack of applicability to the realities of a construction site. Systems were designed for project management needs but not tailored to the needs of construction projects. The interviewees’ statements indicate that maintaining situational awareness requires active interaction and constant checking of the provided information, even requiring pressure on the contractors providing the information. This study highlights the need for practical human approaches to effectively use digital situational awareness technologies and situational management in IC.
Expression of mGluR5 in Pediatric Hodgkin and Non-Hodgkin lymphoma—A Comparative Analysis of Immunohistochemical and Clinical Findings Regarding the Association between Tumor and Paraneoplastic Neurological Disease
Authors: Viezens Ingeborg , Knierim Ellen , Deubzer Hedwig E. , Hauptmann Kathrin , Fassbender Jessica , Morales-Gonzalez Susanne , Kaindl Angela M. , Schuelke Markus , Nikolaus Marc
Published: July 2024

Autoantibodies targeting the neuronal antigen metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (mGluR5) have been identified in patients with Ophelia syndrome, which describes a co-occurrence of paraneoplastic limbic encephalitis and Hodgkin lymphoma (HL). Little data exist regarding frequency and function of mGluR5 in HL and its potential role in causing seropositive paraneoplastic disease. We studied a representative cohort of pediatric HL and NHL patients (n = 57) using immunohistochemistry and fluorescence staining to investigate mGluR5 expression. All lymphoma tissues displayed positive mGluR5 staining, with focus on Hodgkin–Reed–Sternberg (H-RS) cells. We did not detect any mGluR5 staining in tumor-free lymph nodes, which is consistent with the absence of GRM5 transcripts in RNA-sequencing data from non-malignant B and T cells. The frequent presence in pediatric lymphoma falls in line with reports of mGluR5 expression and associated tumor progression in other malignancies. We tested for correlation with clinical features, focusing on disease progression and neurological symptoms. Low mGluR5 expression in H-RS cells correlated with young patient age (<15 years) and positive histology for EBV infection. Paraneoplastic or neurological symptoms were found exclusively in HL patients. While an impact of mGluR5 on HL severity remains possible, a prognostic value of mGluR5 expression levels requires further investigation.
Transcript Markers from Urinary Extracellular Vesicles for Predicting Risk Reclassification of Prostate Cancer Patients on Active Surveillance
Authors: Erdmann Kati , Distler Florian , Gräfe Sebastian , Kwe Jeremy , Erb Holger H. H. , Fuessel Susanne , Pahernik Sascha , Thomas Christian , Borkowetz Angelika
Published: July 2024

Serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA), its derivatives, and magnetic resonance tomography (MRI) lack sufficient specificity and sensitivity for the prediction of risk reclassification of prostate cancer (PCa) patients on active surveillance (AS). We investigated selected transcripts in urinary extracellular vesicles (uEV) from PCa patients on AS to predict PCa risk reclassification (defined by ISUP 1 with PSA > 10 ng/mL or ISUP 2-5 with any PSA level) in control biopsy. Before the control biopsy, urine samples were prospectively collected from 72 patients, of whom 43% were reclassified during AS. Following RNA isolation from uEV, multiplexed reverse transcription, and pre-amplification, 29 PCa-associated transcripts were quantified by quantitative PCR. The predictive ability of the transcripts to indicate PCa risk reclassification was assessed by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses via calculation of the area under the curve (AUC) and was then compared to clinical parameters followed by multivariate regression analysis. ROC curve analyses revealed a predictive potential for AMACR, HPN, MALAT1, PCA3, and PCAT29 (AUC = 0.614–0.655, p < 0.1). PSA, PSA density, PSA velocity, and MRI maxPI-RADS showed AUC values of 0.681–0.747 (p < 0.05), with accuracies for indicating a PCa risk reclassification of 64–68%. A model including AMACR, MALAT1, PCAT29, PSA density, and MRI maxPI-RADS resulted in an AUC of 0.867 (p < 0.001) with a sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of 87%, 83%, and 85%, respectively, thus surpassing the predictive power of the individual markers. These findings highlight the potential of uEV transcripts in combination with clinical parameters as monitoring markers during the AS of PCa.
Statistical Analysis of Gastric Cancer Cells Response to Broadband Terahertz Radiation with and without Contrast Nanoparticles
Authors: Schreiner Oliver Daniel , Socotar Diana , Ciobanu Romeo Cristian , Schreiner Thomas Gabriel , Tamba Bogdan Ionel
Published: July 2024

The paper describes the statistical analysis of the response of gastric cancer cells and normal cells to broadband terahertz radiation up to 4 THz, both with and without the use of nanostructured contrast agents. The THz spectroscopy analysis was comparatively performed under the ATR procedure and transmission measurement procedure. The statistical analysis was conducted towards multiple pairwise comparisons, including a support medium (without cells) versus a support medium with nanoparticles, normal cells versus normal cells with nanoparticles, and, respectively, tumor cells versus tumor cells with nanoparticles. When generally comparing the ATR procedure and transmission measurement procedure for a broader frequency domain, the differentiation between normal and tumor cells in the presence of contrast agents is superior when using the ATR procedure. THz contrast enhancement by using contrast agents derived from MRI-related contrast agents leads to only limited benefits and only for narrow THz frequency ranges, a disadvantage for THz medical imaging.
Preliminary Experience in Ultra-High Frequency Ultrasound Assessment of Cutaneous Primary Lymphomas: An Innovative Classification
Authors: Russo Anna , Patanè Vittorio , Gagliardi Federico , Urraro Fabrizio , Ronchi Andrea , Vitiello Paola , Sica Antonello , Argenziano Giuseppe , Nardone Valerio , Reginelli Alfonso
Published: July 2024

Background: Primary cutaneous lymphoma (PCL) is a rare form of extranodal non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma characterized by malignant lymphocytes confined to the skin. Accurate diagnosis and staging are crucial for optimal management, yet radiological literature on imaging PCL remains limited. This study aims to delineate the imaging characteristics of PCLs using high and ultra-high frequency ultrasound (UHFUS) and proposes a classification system based on ultrasound findings. Methods: A cohort of 88 individuals with suspected PCL underwent high-resolution ultrasound (HRUS) and color Doppler examination of lesions. Lesions were categorized based on sonographic appearance, and subsequent histopathological assessment confirmed the diagnosis. Results: Ultrasound imaging revealed distinct patterns for primary cutaneous T-cell lymphomas (PCTCL) and primary cutaneous B-cell lymphomas (PCBCL), with characteristic features such as hypoechoic nodules, pseudonodular lesions, and dermal infiltration. Histopathological analysis confirmed the ultrasound findings, supporting the proposed classification system. Conclusions: Ultrasonography, particularly UHFUS, offers valuable insights into the imaging characteristics of primary cutaneous lymphomas, aiding the accurate diagnosis and assessment of treatment response. The proposed classification system based on ultrasound findings enhances the diagnostic approach to PCLs, and paves the way for improved patient care and management strategies.
Development of a Humanized Antibody Targeting Extracellular HSP90α to Suppress Endothelial-Mesenchymal Transition-Enhanced Tumor Growth of Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma Cells
Authors: Fan Chi-Shuan , Hung Hui-Chen , Chen Chia-Chi , Chen Li-Li , Ke Yi-Yu , Yeh Teng-Kuang , Huang Chin-Ting , Chang Teng-Yuan , Yen Kuei-Jung , Chen Chung-Hsing , Chua Kee Voon , Hsu John Tsu-An , Huang Tze-Sing
Published: July 2024

Extracellular HSP90α (eHSP90α) is a promoter of tumor development and malignant progression. Patients with malignancies, including pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), have generally shown 5~10-fold increases in serum/plasma eHSP90α levels. In this study, we developed a humanized antibody HH01 to target eHSP90α and evaluated its anticancer efficacy. HH01, with novel complementarity-determining regions, exhibits high binding affinity toward HSP90α. It recognizes HSP90α epitope sites 235AEEKEDKEEE244 and 251ESEDKPEIED260, with critical amino acid residues E237, E239, D240, K241, E253, and K255. HH01 effectively suppressed eHSP90α-induced invasive and spheroid-forming activities of colorectal cancer and PDAC cell lines by blocking eHSP90α’s ligation with the cell-surface receptor CD91. In mouse models, HH01 potently inhibited the tumor growth of PDAC cell grafts/xenografts promoted by endothelial-mesenchymal transition-derived cancer-associated fibroblasts while also reducing serum eHSP90α levels, reflecting its anticancer efficacy. HH01 also modulated tumor immunity by reducing M2 macrophages and reinvigorating immune T-cells. Additionally, HH01 showed low aggregation propensity, high water solubility, and a half-life time of >18 days in mouse blood. It was not cytotoxic to retinal pigmented epithelial cells and showed no obvious toxicity in mouse organs. Our data suggest that targeting eHSP90α with HH01 antibody can be a promising novel strategy for PDAC therapy.
Polypharmacy in Children with Medical Complexity: A Cross-Sectional Study in a Pediatric Palliative Care Center
Authors: Zanin Anna , Baratiri Fernando , Roverato Barbara , Mengato Daniele , Pivato Lisa , Avagnina Irene , Maghini Irene , Divisic Antuan , Rusalen Francesca , Agosto Caterina , Venturini Francesca , Benini Franca
Published: July 2024

Background: Children with medical complexity (CMC) often require multiple medications, leading to polypharmacy, which seems to be linked to adverse effects, administration errors, and increased caregiver burden. This study aimed to describe the prevalence of polypharmacy, medication burden, off-label drug use, and associated costs. Methods: Conducted at the Pediatric Palliative Care Center of Padua, Italy, from August to October 2021, this cross-sectional observational study included patients up to 23 years old with at least one prescribed drug. Data were collected from medical records and caregiver interviews. Drug costs were collected from the Italian Medicine Agency. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed. For comparisons among categorical variables, the Chi-square test was used, and for those among continuous variables, the ANOVA test was used. Results: This study analyzed treatment regimens of 169 patients with a median age of 12.5 years (0.3–23). Polypharmacy was present in 52.7% of patients, and medication burden was observed in 44.4%, both varying significantly by primary diagnosis (p < 0.001). The median daily cost per patient was EUR 2.2 (IQR 0.9–7.1), with significant variation among subgroups. Only 34.6% of prescriptions were off-label. Conclusions: polypharmacy and medication burden are frequent among our CMC population, with some differences according to primary diagnosis.
Fluorine-Free and Robust Photothermal Superhydrophobic Coating Based on Biochar for Anti-/De-Icing
Authors: Lei Yuhang , Hu Lina , Du Shuming , Xu Dong , Yang Jingxiao
Published: July 2024

Environmental pollution can be caused by the improper disposal of agricultural waste and the use of fluorinated chemicals. Icing is a natural phenomenon, but the accumulation of ice on the surface of electrical equipment can damage the equipment and reduce power generation efficiency. Preparation of biochar anti-icing coatings with a fluorine-free process promotes resource utilization and environmental protection. In this study, superhydrophobic coatings with photothermal effect prepared based on biochar as a filler, which was blended with multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and polyurea adhesive. The coating exhibits remarkable durability, as well as anti-icing, antifrosting, and self-cleaning characteristics. Utilizing fluorine-free chemicals enhances the environmentally friendly nature of the coating. The coating exhibits a contact angle of 155°, and the temperature can increase to 47.6 °C within a duration of 10 min. It can complete ice detachment in 128 s and defrosting in 210 s. The coating demonstrated exceptional durability when exposed to mechanical abrasion using sandpaper and steel brushes, water jet impact, acid and alkali corrosion, and tape-peeling tests. This study streamlines the procedure for creating photothermal superhydrophobic coatings, which contributes to environmental conservation and sustainable development. Additionally, it broadens the possibilities for recycling and reusing rejected crops.
Expanding (Bio)Conjugation Strategies: Metal-Free Thiol-Yne Photo-Click Reaction for Immobilization onto PLLA Surfaces
Authors: Sánchez-Bodón Julia , Diaz-Galbarriatu Maria , Pérez-Álvarez Leyre , Vilas-Vilela José Luis , Moreno-Benítez Isabel
Published: July 2024

The study delves into the use of the thiol-yne click reaction to enhance (bio)conjugation methodologies, particularly focusing on immobilizing biomolecules onto PLLA surfaces. The thiol-yne click reaction, known for its efficiency, selectivity, and versatility in forming carbon-sulfur bonds under mild conditions without transition metal catalysts, is explored for conjugating the fluorophore dansyl onto PLLA surfaces. This approach aims to broaden bioconjugation strategies beyond traditional methods like the Michael-type reaction, expanding their applicability to diverse biomolecules. Utilizing a photoinitiator and specific light for photo-immobilization, the thiol-yne click reaction offers spatial and temporal control, with the absence of transition metal catalysts mitigating concerns of cytotoxicity and metal contamination, rendering it suitable for biomedical applications. The objectives of this research encompass demonstrating the feasibility of the thiol-yne click reaction for surface functionalization and enriching bioconjugation strategies for tailoring PLLA surfaces, ultimately advancing biomedical technologies through precise control over surface properties and functionality. For this purpose, PLLA surfaces were activated through hydrolysis and amidation to introduce the activated alkyne moiety (PLLA-Alkyne), followed by photo-induced dansyl immobilization (PLLA-Dns) with Irgacure 651. Various surface characterization techniques, including SEM, WCA, XPS, ATR-FTIR, and fluorescence microscopy and spectroscopy, validated the successful conjugation. This metal-free method preserves the material’s bulk properties while enabling thiol-containing molecule immobilization.
Hierarchical Porous Activated Carbon Derived from Pleurotus Eryngii and the Influence of Pore Structural Parameters on Capacitance Performance
Authors: Yuan Yudan , Sun Yi , Liu Chenguang , Yang Li , Zhao Cezhou
Published: July 2024

Hierarchical porous activated carbon derived from pleurotus eryngii was prepared by a one-step activation method. It was found that the specific surface area of the obtained sample increased with the increase in activation temperature (700–900 °C). The sample activated at 900 °C has a specific surface area of 2002.2 m2 g−1 and the highest specific capacitance (319 F g−1), which is mainly attributed to the high utilization rate of specific surface area brought by the hierarchical porous structure. The assembled PEK-900//PEK-900 capacitor measured a specific capacity of 258 F g−1 at a current density of 0.5 A g−1. After 10,000 cycles of charging and discharging, the specific capacitance increased by 10%. Based on the correlation analysis of experimental data between the specific capacitance and pore structural parameters, Lasso dimensionality reduction and binary linear regression were used to reveal the relationship between the two. The residual sum of squares obtained by this method decreased by 38.4% compared to the univariate linear regression, providing a simple and reliable theoretical method for predicting the capacitance performance of biomass carbon materials.
Survival Outcomes for US and Canadian Patients Diagnosed with Hodgkin Lymphoma before and after Brentuximab Vedotin Approval for Relapsed/Refractory Disease: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Davies Gwynivere A. , Orav John E. , Brantley Kristen D.
Published: July 2024

Cost-effectiveness analyses are required for therapies within Canada’s universal healthcare system, leading to delays relative to U.S. healthcare. Patients with Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) generally have an excellent prognosis, but those who relapse after or are ineligible for transplant benefit from novel therapies, including brentuximab vedotin (BV). BV was FDA-approved in 2011 but not Canadian-funded until 2014. To assess the impact of access delays, we compared changes in survival for U.S. (by insurer) and Canadian patients in periods pre/post-U.S. approval. Patients were 16–64 years, diagnosed with HL in 2007–2010 (Period 1) and 2011–2014 (Period 2) from the U.S. SEER and Canadian Cancer Registries. Approval date (surrogate) was utilized as therapy was unavailable in registries. Kaplan-Meier survival curves and adjusted Cox regression models compared survival between periods by insurance category. Among 12,003 U.S. and 4210 Canadian patients, survival was better in U.S. patients (adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) 0.87 (95%CI 0.77–0.98)) between periods; improvement in Canadian patients (aHR 0.84 (95%CI 0.69–1.03) was similar but non-significant. Comparisons between insurers showed survival was significantly worse for U.S. uninsured and Medicaid vs. U.S. privately insured and Canadian patients. Given the increasingly complex nature of oncologic funding, this merits further investigation to ensure equity in access to therapy developments.
The Burden of Interstitial Lung Involvement in Rheumatoid Arthritis: Could Lung Ultrasound Have a Role in Its Detection? A Literature Review
Authors: Lepri Gemma , Markovic Milica , Bellando-Randone Silvia , Sebastiani Marco , Guiducci Serena
Published: July 2024

Lung involvement represents a fearful complication in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), potentially involving all compartments of the pulmonary system. Regarding interstitial lung disease (ILD), the HRCT represents the gold standard technique for its diagnosis; however, the examination is burdened by radiation exposure and high costs. In addition, although some risk factors for ILD are known, no algorithms exist to know which patients to submit to HRCT and when. In this context, lung ultrasound (LUS) showed promising results for at least 10 years, demonstrating correlation with high resolution computed tomography (HRCT) findings in other rheumatic diseases. Here, LUS may represent a screening test providing additional information to clinical examination and pulmonary function tests. The data deriving from LUS experience in other rheumatic diseases could steer the future towards the use of this technique also in RA patients, and in this review, we report the most relevant literature regarding LUS in RA-ILD.
Technological Advances in SPECT and SPECT/CT Imaging
Authors: Bouchareb Yassine , AlSaadi Afrah , Zabah Jawa , Jain Anjali , Al-Jabri Aziza , Phiri Peter , Shi Jian Qing , Delanerolle Gayathri , Sirasanagandla Srinivasa Rao
Published: July 2024

Single photon emission tomography/computed tomography (SPECT/CT) is a mature imaging technology with a dynamic role in the diagnosis and monitoring of a wide array of diseases. This paper reviews the technological advances, clinical impact, and future directions of SPECT and SPECT/CT imaging. The focus of this review is on signal amplifier devices, detector materials, camera head and collimator designs, image reconstruction techniques, and quantitative methods. Bulky photomultiplier tubes (PMTs) are being replaced by position-sensitive PMTs (PSPMTs), avalanche photodiodes (APDs), and silicon PMs to achieve higher detection efficiency and improved energy resolution and spatial resolution. Most recently, new SPECT cameras have been designed for cardiac imaging. The new design involves using specialised collimators in conjunction with conventional sodium iodide detectors (NaI(Tl)) or an L-shaped camera head, which utilises semiconductor detector materials such as CdZnTe (CZT: cadmium–zinc–telluride). The clinical benefits of the new design include shorter scanning times, improved image quality, enhanced patient comfort, reduced claustrophobic effects, and decreased overall size, particularly in specialised clinical centres. These noticeable improvements are also attributed to the implementation of resolution-recovery iterative reconstructions. Immense efforts have been made to establish SPECT and SPECT/CT imaging as quantitative tools by incorporating camera-specific modelling. Moreover, this review includes clinical examples in oncology, neurology, cardiology, musculoskeletal, and infection, demonstrating the impact of these advancements on clinical practice in radiology and molecular imaging departments.
Efficient Elimination of mtDNA from Mammalian Cells with 2′,3′-Dideoxycytidine
Authors: Kozhukhar Natalya , Alexeyev Mikhail F.
Published: July 2024

Mammalian cell lines devoid of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) are indispensable in studies aimed at elucidating the contribution of mtDNA to various cellular processes or interactions between nuclear and mitochondrial genomes. However, the repertoire of tools for generating such cells (also known as rho-0 or ρ0 cells) remains limited, and approaches remain time- and labor-intensive, ultimately limiting their availability. Ethidium bromide (EtBr), which is most commonly used to induce mtDNA loss in mammalian cells, is cytostatic and mutagenic as it affects both nuclear and mitochondrial genomes. Therefore, there is growing interest in new tools for generating ρ0 cell lines. Here, we examined the utility of 2′,3′-dideoxycytidine (ddC, zalcitabine) alone or in combination with EtBr for generating ρ0 cell lines of mouse and human origin as well as inducing the ρ0 state in mouse/human somatic cell hybrids. We report that ddC is superior to EtBr in both immortalized mouse fibroblasts and human 143B cells. Also, unlike EtBr, ddC exhibits no cytostatic effects at the highest concentration tested (200 μM), making it more suitable for general use. We conclude that ddC is a promising new tool for generating mammalian ρ0 cell lines.
From Tiles to Worksheet: Exploring Concreteness Fading in Learning Vector Addition
Authors: Zhao Yilang
Published: July 2024

Teaching vector addition seems challenging in secondary-level mathematics education. Vector addition requires both geometric and algebraic understandings, and the overreliance on abstract representations causes students difficulties in learning this complex mathematics skill. The concreteness fading framework is promising for effectively teaching complex mathematical topics in a progressive way. This study explores the contribution of concreteness fading to learning by implementing an instructional intervention for eighth graders on vector addition. Through a grounded theory method, this research reveals key concreteness fading mechanisms: (1) consistent design elements establish inter-task connections; (2) the fading task facilitates the co-building of operational and procedural knowledge; and (3) unfamiliar symbols within tasks promote mathematical sense-making. These findings suggest the potential for future studies to incorporate concreteness fading as a valuable strategy for enhancing the learning experience on complex mathematical subjects.
Designing Inclusive Computational Thinking Learning Trajectories for the Youngest Learners
Authors: Guss Shannon Stark , Clements Douglas H. , Sharifnia Elica , Sarama Julie , Holland Adam , Lim Chih-Ing , Vinh Megan
Published: July 2024

Foundational thinking for later use of technology, particularly coding, is necessary for an inclusive and sustainable future. Inclusive practices beginning in early childhood recognize children’s innate development of computational thinking—sequencing, repetition and looping, debugging, decomposing and composing, representation, and causality. This qualitative research describes processes of developing and evaluating hypothesized developmental progressions. Inclusive engagement of children with and without disabilities is described in examples for each level of each developmental progression. Implications for teaching and learning with inclusive practices are described for children with and without disabilities.
Remaining Useful Life Prediction of Lithium-Ion Batteries Based on Neural Network and Adaptive Unscented Kalman Filter
Authors: Wu Lingtao , Guo Wenhao , Tang Yuben , Sun Youming , Qin Tuanfa
Published: July 2024

Accurate prediction of remaining useful life (RUL) plays an important role in maintaining the safe and stable operation of Lithium-ion battery management systems. Aiming at the problem of poor prediction stability of a single model, this paper combines the advantages of data-driven and model-based methods and proposes a RUL prediction method combining convolutional neural network (CNN), bi-directional long and short-term memory neural network (Bi-LSTM), SE attention mechanism (AM) and adaptive unscented Kalman filter (AUKF). First, three types of indirect features that are highly correlated with RUL decay are selected as inputs to the model to improve the accuracy of RUL prediction. Second, a CNN-BLSTM-AM network is used to further extract, select and fuse the indirect features to form predictive measurements of the identified degradation metrics. In addition, we introduce the AUKF model to increase the uncertainty representation of the RUL prediction. Finally, the method is validated on the NASA dataset and the CALCE dataset and compared with other methods. The experimental results show that the method is able to achieve an accurate estimation of RUL, a minimum RMSE of up to 0.0030, and a minimum MAE of up to 0.0024, which has high estimation accuracy and robustness.
Framework for Integrating Generative AI in Developing Competencies for Accounting and Audit Professionals
Authors: Anica-Popa Ionuț-Florin , Vrîncianu Marinela , Anica-Popa Liana-Elena , Cișmașu Irina-Daniela , Tudor Cătălin-Georgel
Published: July 2024

The study aims to identify the knowledge, skills and competencies required by accounting and auditing (AA) professionals in the context of integrating disruptive Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) technologies and to develop a framework for integrating GenAI capabilities into organisational systems, harnessing its potential to revolutionise lifelong learning and skills development and to assist day-to-day operations and decision-making. Through a systematic literature review, 103 papers were analysed, to outline, in the current business ecosystem, the competencies’ demand generated by AI adoption and, in particular, GenAI and its associated risks, thus contributing to the body of knowledge in underexplored research areas. Positioned at the confluence of accounting, auditing and GenAI, the paper introduces a meaningful overview of knowledge in the areas of effective data analysis, interpretation of findings, risk awareness and risk management. It emphasizes and reshapes the role of required skills for accounting and auditing professionals in discovering the true potential of GenAI and adopting it accordingly. The study introduces a new LLM-based system model that can enhance its GenAI capabilities through collaboration with similar systems and provides an explanatory scenario to illustrate its applicability in the accounting and audit area.
HA-Net: A Hybrid Algorithm Model for Underwater Image Color Restoration and Texture Enhancement
Authors: Qian Jin , Li Hui , Zhang Bin
Published: July 2024

Due to the extremely irregular nonlinear degradation of images obtained in real underwater environments, it is difficult for existing underwater image enhancement methods to stably restore degraded underwater images, thus making it challenging to improve the efficiency of marine work. We propose a hybrid algorithm model for underwater image color restoration and texture enhancement, termed HA-Net. First, we introduce a dynamic color correction algorithm based on depth estimation to restore degraded images and mitigate color attenuation in underwater images by calculating the depth of targets and backgrounds. Then, we propose a multi-scale U-Net to enhance the network’s feature extraction capability and introduce a parallel attention module to capture image spatial information, thereby improving the model’s accuracy in recognizing deep semantics such as fine texture. Finally, we propose a global information compensation algorithm to enhance the output image’s integrity and boost the network’s learning ability. Experimental results on synthetic standard data sets and real data demonstrate that our method produces images with clear texture and bright colors, outperforming other algorithms in both subjective and objective evaluations, making it more suitable for real marine environments.
Review of the 6G-Based Supply Chain Management within Industry 4.0/5.0 Paradigm
Authors: Rojek Izabela , Jasiulewicz-Kaczmarek Małgorzata , Piszcz Adrianna , Galas Krzysztof , Mikołajewski Dariusz
Published: July 2024

The pace of technological development, including smart factories within Industry 4.0/5.0, means that the vagaries of supply chains observed previously cannot be repeated. The automation and computerization of supply chains, asset tracking, simulation, and the prediction of disruption through artificial intelligence (AI) are becoming a matter of course. In selected countries, this will be facilitated by sixth-generation mobile networks planned for full deployment in 2030. The 6G-based intelligent supply chain management within the Industry 4.0/5.0 paradigm will ensure not only greater fluidity of supply, but also faster response to changes in market availability or prices, allowing substitutes to be found and taken into account in the production process and its logistical provisioning. The article outlines key research and development trends in this area and identifies priority development directions, taking into account the advantages and opportunities offered by the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and machine learning (ML). The emergence of 6G technology will transform the supply chain with unprecedented speed, connectivity, and efficiency. This technology will improve visibility, automation, and collaboration while supporting sustainable and safe operations. As a result, companies will be able to design, plan, and operate their supply chains with greater precision, flexibility, and responsiveness, ultimately leading to a more robust and agile supply chain ecosystem.
N-Dimensional Non-Degenerate Chaos Based on Two-Parameter Gain with Application to Hash Function
Authors: Dai Xu , Wang Xiaotong , Han Haotong , Wang Erfu
Published: July 2024

The Lyapunov exponent serves as a measure of the average divergence or convergence between chaotic trajectories from the perspective of Lyapunov exponents (LEs). Chaotic systems with more and larger positive LEs have more complex dynamical behavior and can weaken the degeneration of digital chaos. Some existing control algorithms for chaos need more and larger preset parameters, which are not favorable for practical application; others require the original system to satisfy specific conditions, which lack generality. To address the deficiencies of these algorithms, this paper proposes a construction algorithm of N-dimensional discrete non-degenerate chaos based on two-parameter gain (ND-NCTG), which can realize the non-degenerate or non-chaotic control of chaotic systems by only two control parameters. We take a 3D chaotic system as an example and analyze the relationship between control parameters and LEs, as well as the characteristics of chaotic sequences, to verify the effectiveness and reliability of the algorithm. In addition, since the initial value sensitivity of the chaotic system coincides with the sensitivity in input information for the hash function, this paper takes the proposed chaotic construction algorithm as the basis to design a bidirectional diffusion chaotic hash function. The effectiveness and security of this hash algorithm are verified by sensitivity, statistical distribution and collision analysis. Compared with similar algorithms, both the non-degenerate chaotic construction algorithm and the hash function algorithm proposed in this paper have better performance and can meet the application requirements of secure communication.