bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on Economic Evaluation Methods and Project Investment Strategies for Gas Power Generation Based on the Natural Gas Industry Chain and Gas–Electricity Price Linkage in China
Authors: Wei Hua , Li Feng , Hong Zixin , Jiang Haifeng
Published: October 2024

In recent years, due to the spike in natural gas spot prices, gas-fired power corporations’ operating costs have skyrocketed. Traditional power generation corporations have gradually been withdrawing from gas power generation investment, replaced by oil and gas enterprises with upstream resources. The development of gas-fired power plants helps to maintain the stability of the power grid and has a positive effect on the realization of carbon neutrality goals. At present, most of the financial evaluation methods for gas power generation projects tend to focus on the static tariffs of the project itself and lack consideration for the overall contribution to the industry chain and the latest “gas–electricity price linkage” mechanisms in China, leading to oil and gas enterprises reducing investment in gas-fired power plants due to yield constraints. In this paper, a financial evaluation methodology for gas power generation projects based on the industrial chain and the “gas–electricity price linkage” mechanism was proposed. The investment return characteristics of specific gas power generation projects under the “gas–electricity price linkage” mechanism in different provinces were revealed through this methodology. Considering the characteristics and industrial development trends in major provinces in China, investment and operation strategies for gas power generation were proposed. These studies provide oil and gas enterprises with references and suggestions for future investment decisions for new gas power generation projects.
Stabilization of Oil-in-Water Pickering Emulsions by Surface-Functionalized Cellulose Hydrogel
Authors: Udoetok Inimfon A. , Mohamed Mohamed H. , Wilson Lee D.
Published: October 2024

An amphiphilic cellulose (CLH) hydrogel was synthesized via grafting of quaternary ammonium groups onto cellulose. The structural properties of CLH were characterized via Fourier transform infrared (FTIR)/13C solid-state NMR spectroscopy, elemental (CHN) analysis, particle size distribution (PSD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and wettability was assessed through contact angle measurements. Pickering emulsions of apolar oils in water were prepared using variable weights of the CLH hydrogel as the stabilizing agent, along with different methods of agitation (mechanical shaking and sonication). The characterization results for CLH provide support for the successful grafting of quaternary ammonium groups onto cellulose to produce hydrogels. Different methods of agitation of an oil/water mixture revealed the formation of an oil-in-water (O/W) Pickering emulsion that was stable to coalescence for over 14 days. The resulting emulsions showed variable droplet sizes and stability according to the dosage of CLH in the emulsion and the agitation method, where the emulsion droplet size is related to the particle size of CLH. The addition of methyl orange (MO), a probe to evaluate the phase partitioning of the dye, had minor effects on the emulsion droplet size, and the emulsion prepared with 0.8 wt.% of CLH and agitated via sonication exhibited the smallest droplet size and greatest stability. This study is anticipated to catalyze further research and the development of low-cost and sustainable biopolymer hydrogels as stabilizers for tunable Pickering emulsion. Grafted cellulose materials of this type represent versatile stabilizing agents for foods, agrochemicals, and pharmaceutical products and technologies.
Novel, Speedy, and Eco-Friendly Carboxymethyl Cellulose-Nitrogen Doped Carbon Dots Biosensors with DFT Calculations, Molecular Docking, and Experimental Validation
Authors: Tohamy Hebat-Allah S.
Published: October 2024

Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) was prepared from sugarcane bagasse (SB) in minutes using a novel microwave method. Additionally, nitrogen-doped carbon dots (N–CDs) were synthesized from SB using the same microwave technique. These materials were crosslinked with CaCl2 to prepare antibacterial/antifungal hydrogel sensors. In this regard, both CMC@Ca and CMC@Ca-N–CDs exhibited antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli (Gram negative), while only CMC@Ca-N–CDs demonstrated antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (Gram positive). Moreover, both materials showed antifungal activity against Candida albicans. The molecular docking study demonstrated that CMC@Ca-N–CDs showed good binding with proteins with short bond length 2.59, 2.80, and 1.97 A° for Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans, respectively. These binding affinities were corroborated by the observed inhibition zone diameters. Furthermore, fluorescence microscope revealed distinct imaging patterns between Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, as well as pathogenic yeast (fungi). CMC@Ca-N–CDs emitted blue light when exposed to Escherichia coli and Candida albicans (i.e., CMC@Ca-N–CDs/Escherichia coli and Candida albicans), whereas it emitted bright-red light when exposed to Staphylococcus aureus (i.e., CMC@Ca-N–CDs/Staphylococcus aureus). This disparity in the fluorescence-emitted colors is due to the difference in the cell wall of these microorganisms. Additionally, DFT calculations were conducted to substantiate the robust chemical interactions between CMC, Ca2+, and N–CDs.
Potentiality of Antibacterial Gels for the Prophylactic Coating of Hernia Repair Prosthetic Materials
Authors: Pérez-Köhler Bárbara , Benito-Martínez Selma , Rivas-Santos Celia , Gómez-Gil Verónica , García-Moreno Francisca , Pascual Gemma
Published: October 2024

Prosthetic mesh infection constitutes one of the major postsurgical complications following abdominal hernia repair. Antibacterial coatings represent a prophylactic strategy to reduce the risk of infection. This study assessed the in vitro response of two antibacterial gels made of 1% carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) functionalized with an antiseptic (chlorhexidine, CHX) or an antibiotic (rifampicin, RIF), developed for the coating of polypropylene (PP) meshes for hernia repair. Fragments of a lightweight PP mesh (1 cm2) presoaked in the unloaded or drug-loaded CMC (0.05% CHX; 0.13 mg/mL RIF) were challenged with 106 CFU/mL Staphylococcus aureus (Sa) and methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA). Agar diffusion tests, sonication, turbidimetry, crystal violet staining, scanning electron microscopy and cell viability assays (fibroblasts, mesothelial cells) were performed to evaluate the response of the gels. Both compounds—especially the RIF-loaded gel—exerted a biocidal effect against gram-positive bacteria, developing wide inhibition halos, precluding adhesion to the mesh surface, and hampering bacterial survival in culture. The antibiotic gel proved innocuous, while lower viability was found in cells exposed to the antiseptic (p < 0.05). Together with their fast, affordable, convenient processing and easy application, the results suggest the potential effectiveness of these drug-loaded CMC gels in providing meshes with an antibacterial coating exhibiting great biocide performance.
Conductive-Polymer-Based Double-Network Hydrogels for Wearable Supercapacitors
Authors: Quan Bu , Du Linjie , Zhou Zixuan , Sun Xin , Travas-Sejdic Jadranka , Zhu Bicheng
Published: October 2024

In the field of contemporary epidermal bioelectronics, there is a demand for energy supplies that are safe, lightweight, flexible and robust. In this work, double-network polymer hydrogels were synthesized by polymerization of 3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene (EDOT) into a poly(vinyl alcohol)/poly(ethylene glycol diacrylate) (PVA/PEGDA) double-network hydrogel matrix. The PEDOT-PVA/PEGDA double-network hydrogel shows both excellent mechanical and electrochemical performance, having a strain up to 498%, electrical conductivity as high as 5 S m−1 and specific capacitance of 84.1 ± 3.6 mF cm⁻2. After assembling two PEDOT-PVA/PEGDA double-network hydrogel electrodes with the free-standing boron cross-linked PVA/KCl hydrogel electrolyte, the formed supercapacitor device exhibits a specific capacitance of 54.5 mF cm⁻2 at 10 mV s−1, with an energy density of 4.7 μWh cm−2. The device exhibits excellent electrochemical stability with 97.6% capacitance retention after 3000 charging–discharging cycles. In addition, the hydrogel also exhibits great sensitivity to strains and excellent antifouling properties. It was also found that the abovementioned hydrogel can achieve stable signals under both small and large deformations as a flexible sensor. The flexible and antifouling PEDOT-PVA/PEGDA double-network hydrogel-based supercapacitor is a promising power storage device with potential applications in wearable electronics.
Reduced-Cost Genotyping by Resequencing in Peanut Breeding Programs Using Tecan Allegro Targeted Resequencing V2
Authors: Sung Cheng-Jung , Kulkarni Roshan , Hillhouse Andrew , Simpson Charles E. , Cason John , Burow Mark D.
Published: October 2024

The identification of informative molecular markers is useful for linkage mapping and can benefit genome-wide association studies by providing fine-scale information about sequence variations. However, high-throughput genotyping approaches are not cost-effective for labs that require frequent use, such as breeding programs that need to perform genotyping on large populations with hundreds of individuals. The number of single nucleotide polymorphism markers generated by those approaches can be far more than needed for most breeding programs; instead, breeders focus on the use of at most hundreds of polymorphic molecular markers for analysis. To help make use of molecular markers a routine tool for breeding programs, we aim to develop a cost-effective genotyping system by using the Tecan Allegro Targeted Resequencing V2 kit. This provides a customized probe design, which indicates that all the DNA fragments synthesized are known targets. SNPs obtained from previous peanut next-generation sequencing data were pre-filtered and selected as targets. These SNP targets were polymorphic among different tetraploid accessions and were selected to be distinguishable from paralogs. A total of 5154 probes were designed to detect 2770 SNP targets and were tested on 48 accessions, which include some closely related sister lines from a breeding population. The results indicated that genotyping by a targeted resequencing approach reduced the cost from around USD 28 (SNP chip and GBS) to USD 18 per sample, while providing polymorphic markers with accurate SNP calls. With this cost-effective genotyping platform, pre-selected SNP markers can be used effectively and routinely for more breeding programs.
RNAi Knockdown of EHMT2 in Maternal Expression of Prader–Willi Syndrome Genes
Authors: Zaric Violeta , Kang Hye Ri , Rybalchenko Volodymyr , Zigman Jeffrey M. , Gray Steven J. , Butler Ryan K.
Published: October 2024

Background/objectives: Euchromatic histone lysine methyltransferase 2 (EHMT2, also known as G9a) is a mammalian histone methyltransferase that catalyzes the dimethylation of histone 3 lysine 9 (H3K9). On human chromosome 15, the parental-specific expression of Prader–Willi Syndrome (PWS)-related genes, such as SNRPN and SNORD116, are regulated through the genetic imprinting of the PWS imprinting center (PWS-IC). On the paternal allele, PWS genes are expressed whereas the epigenetic maternal silencing of PWS genes is controlled by the EHMT2-mediated methylation of H3K9 in PWS-IC. Here, we measured the effects of RNA interference of EHMT2 on the maternal expression of genes deficient in PWS in mouse model and patient iPSC-derived cells. Methods: We used small interfering RNA (siRNA) oligonucleotides and lentiviral short harpin RNA (shRNA) to reduce Ehtm2/EHMT2 expression in mouse Snord116 deletion primary neurons, PWS patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) line and PWS iPSC-derived neurons. We then measured the expression of transcript or protein (if relevant) of PWS genes normally silenced on the maternal allele. Results: With an approximate reduction of 90% in EHMT2 mRNA and more than 80% of the EHMT2 protein, we demonstrated close to a 2-fold increase in the expression of maternal transcripts for SNRPN and SNORD116 in PWS iPSCs treated with siEHMT2 compared to PWS iPSC siControl. A similar increase in SNORD116 and SNRPN RNA expression was observed in PWS iPSC-derived neurons treated with shEHMT2. Conclusions: RNAi reduction in EHMT2 activates maternally silenced PWS genes. Further studies are needed to determine whether the increase is therapeutically relevant. This study confirms the role of EHMT2 in the epigenetic regulation of PWS genes.
Work-Related Stress and Coping: A Comparative Analysis of On-Site and Office-Based Workers in UK Building Construction
Authors: Blair Winkler Rachel , Middleton Campbell , Remes Olivia
Published: October 2024

Background: There are increasing mental health concerns in the construction industry workforce, with stress being a primary concern. This qualitative study investigates stress experiences and the management of stress in office-based and on-site workers in the UK building construction sector. This study can provide key insights for construction, but also potentially other industries which struggle with high stress levels among their employees. Methods: A total of 40 semi-structured interviews (20 on-site/20 office-based) were conducted at large-scale building construction projects in the southeast UK. Framework method analysis was used to derive an understanding of stress in the workplace and coping strategies. Results: The study identified two major themes: the negative influence of work stress on personal and professional wellbeing, and the management of stress through proactive and reactive coping strategies. Results indicated that on-site workers frequently cited high workloads, tight deadlines, and safety concerns, whereas office-based workers tended to highlight job complexity and organisational pressures. Both population sub-groups reported stress affecting their work performance, with site-workers having the added concern of physical health and safety. Coping strategies among workers tended to rely on support networks, outside-the-workplace hobbies, and boundary-setting, among others. Conclusions: Stress remains a significant problem in the workplace and affects wellbeing; however, there are ways to mitigate the stress. Our findings could provide a foundation for intervention development.
Nutritional Discrepancies Among Inpatients and Outpatients Diagnosed with Hypertension
Authors: Wasilewski Andrzej , Marczyński Piotr , Kontek Sylwiusz , Jabłoński Franciszek , Kasprzak Adrian , Wasilewska Eliza , Kosendiak Aureliusz Andrzej
Published: October 2024

Objectives: Arterial hypertension (AH) is one of the most common disorders affecting the human population. The diet of patients with AH can influence the course of the disease and prognosis. The aim of this study was to investigate the differences in nutrition in hospitalised and non-hospitalised hypertensive patients, compared to control groups of non-hypertensive patients from the same medical centres. Methods: Patients from nine centres—six hospitals and three ambulatory care centres—were surveyed. The Questionnaire for the Assessment of Dietary Habits, Lifestyle, and Nutrition Knowledge (KomPAN) was administered by interviewers. Results: Complete results were obtained from 172 hospitalised and 63 non-hospitalised patients. A significantly higher mean body mass index was found for the hypertensive patients (p < 0.001), and a higher unhealthy diet index score was also shown for the hypertensive patients (p = 0.003). Over and above this, a lower mean health-promoting diet index score was found in the hospitalised group (who were on a hospital diet) for the hypertensive patients (p = 0.018). Summary: The study highlights a strong positive correlation between body mass index (BMI) and arterial hypertension (AH), with patients exhibiting higher BMI levels compared to a control group. A BMI of over 25 significantly increases the likelihood of developing AH, and obesity is associated with a higher risk in both men and women. Conclusions: The study indicates that a hospital diet may not be suitable for people with AH. Further research should be conducted to obtain reliable results. Clinical implications: The study showed which factors should be considered when composing a diet for people with hypertension, the relevance of which was demonstrated in the discussion. The study shows that the problem that clinicians have been struggling with for years is still present and inadequately remedied.
The Effects of Environmental Factors on General Human Health: A Scoping Review
Authors: Sundas Amina , Contreras Ivan , Mujahid Omer , Beneyto Aleix , Vehi Josep
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: The external environment constantly influences human health through many factors, including air quality, access to green spaces, exposure to pollutants, and climate change. Contamination poses a substantial threat to human well-being; conversely, environmental factors also positively impact health. The purpose of this study is to provide a comprehensive review of the complex relationship between various environmental factors and human health. While individual studies have explored specific aspects, a broader integrative understanding is lacking. Methods: Through databases (PubMed, Cochrane, Copernicus), 4888 papers were identified, with 166 selected for detailed analysis. Results: We summarized recent research, identifying multiple associations between environmental factors such as air pollution, climate change, solar radiation, and meteorological conditions and their impact on various health outcomes, including respiratory, cardiovascular, metabolic and gastrointestinal, renal and urogenital, neurological and psychological health, infectious and skin diseases, and major cancers. We use chord diagrams to illustrate these links. We also show the interaction between different environmental factors. Findings begin with exploring the direct impact of environmental factors on human health; then, the interplay and combined effects of environmental factors, elucidating their (often indirect) interaction and collective contribution to human health; and finally, the implications of climate change on human health. Conclusions: Researchers and policymakers need to consider that individuals are exposed to multiple pollutants simultaneously, the “multipollutant exposure phenomenon”. It is important to study and regulate environmental factors by considering the combined impact of various pollutants rather than looking at each pollutant separately. We emphasize actionable recommendations and solutions.
State-of-the-Art Web Platforms for the Management and Sharing of Data: Applications, Uses, and Potentialities
Authors: Spettu Franco , Achille Cristiana , Fassi Francesco
Published: October 2024

The increasing request for digitized data among several fields, including the built environment and cultural heritage (CH), highlights the need for proficient ways to access, archive, and share 3D data and related information among users. The sector of reality capture produces accurate and reliable products that can support building management and CH maintenance, at the price of heavy and resource-demanding data. An emerging solution to this problem is represented by the web platforms for 3D data management, that promise to relieve users from the costs of archive and hardware, providing effective visualization, access and sharing tools. The panorama of commercial web platforms is analyzed according to the Software-as-a-Service business model, and the features of some representative platforms are exposed. The paper discusses the main advantages of diffused access and collaboration and the potential issues concerning long-term archival and data persistence. It provides a general overview of the main available platforms and describes their main features, comparing their specific pros and cons according to their category. The future perspectives of the web platform sector are promising as, according to the current development path, they may be able to empower built environments and the CH sector with a diffused, systematic, and conscious use of 3D data.
Determination of Adjacent Visual Buffer Zones for the Temple Town of Chiang Mai City
Authors: Sukwai Janjira , Srinurak Nattasit
Published: October 2024

Buffer zone delineation often extends from the outermost edge of a site boundary for a specific distance. This study proposes a novel approach to determining the visual buffer for the temple town of Chiang Mai city. Adjacent Visual Buffer (AVB) was determined for the temples and their approaching routes using a GIS-based visibility method based on the viewing feature’s visual coverage and the observer’s visual range. The findings revealed that the total viewshed/visual range characterized the visibility of the temples in relation to the viewing feature’s height, resulting in AVB radii of varying sizes. The highest AVB radius of more than 200 m was found for temples situated in the city’s core, followed by those located on the city’s main streets and in isolated areas. The approaching route buffer was determined as a radius of 25 m from the road’s center. Interestingly, the density map results were consistent with the temple buffer results, indicating that the main roads of Chiang Mai’s historic area are highly used as an approaching route for temples. Combining the visual buffers of both temples and their approaching routes can aid in determining the level of control or guideline requirements in specific roads and areas.
Time of Energy Intake: Association with Weight Status, Diet Quality, and Sociodemographic Characteristics in Brazil
Authors: Rodrigues Paulo Rogério Melo , Monteiro Luana Silva , de Vasconcelos Thaís Meirelles , Alves Iuna Arruda , Yokoo Edna Massae , Sichieri Rosely , Pereira Rosangela Alves
Published: October 2024

This study aimed to estimate the association of time of energy intake with weight status, diet quality, and sociodemographic characteristics in Brazil. This cross-sectional study used data from a nationally representative survey with 44.744 individuals (≥10 years old). Food consumption was assessed by 24 h recall. The evening/morning energy intake ratio was calculated, standardized, and categorized in tertiles. The association between the evening/morning energy intake ratio and weight status was estimated using polynomial logistic regression models, and differences across diet quality and sociodemographic categories were estimated considering the non-overlapping 95% confidence intervals. Men, adolescents, adults, and individuals in the higher income level had greater evening energy intake. Those with a higher evening-to-morning energy intake ratio were 15% more likely to be obese (OR = 1.15; 95% CI = 1.02 to 1.28), 21% less likely to be underweight (OR = 0.79; 95% CI = 0.64 to 0.98), and reported greater total energy, protein, and lipid intake, as well as higher consumption of low-quality diet markers. Higher evening energy intake relative to morning intake was associated with obesity, low-quality diet markers, and sociodemographic characteristics. The characterization of the time of energy intake can be useful for tailoring and targeting diet promotion actions and for controlling the obesity epidemic.
Examining Indigenous Identity as a Protective Factor in Mental Well-Being Research in the United States: A Scoping Review
Authors: Carson William Oyenque , Curley Caleigh , Goldtooth-Halwood Renée , McClelland Deborah Jean , Carroll Stephanie Russo , Yuan Nicole P. , Carvajal Scott , Cordova-Marks Felina M.
Published: October 2024

Due to historical and ongoing structural racism and settler colonialism, Indigenous Peoples and communities in the United States are at a higher risk for a variety of diseases, elevated stress, and negative mental health outcomes. In addition, the United States federal government and the public encourage a view that Indigenous Peoples are primarily a racial group. Federally-, state-, and un-recognized Indigenous Peoples have a collective right to self-determination and sovereignty, and individuals of these Peoples understand this. The goals of this scoping review were to examine what research on identity and mental well-being is currently being conducted with Indigenous populations in the United States, synthesize the results, and determine if researchers are utilizing toolsets and theories that reinforce the sovereignty of Indigenous Peoples, communities, and the individual. The scoping review followed guidelines from the Joanna Briggs Institute guide for Scoping Reviews and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). Four databases and over six thousand articles were searched for this review, with twenty-four that had data extracted and analyzed. Current research on the relationship between Indigenous identity and mental well-being shows mixed results. The findings of this scoping review highlight a need for Indigenous-specific tools for measuring identity in place of tools used for other ethnic and racial groups. More research must be conducted to create tools that specifically examine the phenomena of United States-based Indigenous identity.
Effects of 12 and 24 Weeks of Interdisciplinary Interventions on Health-Related Physical Fitness, Biochemical Markers, and Level of Food Processing in Overweight or Obese Adolescents: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: dos Santos Moraes Lilian Rosana , Santos Natalia Quevedo dos , Marques Déborah Cristina de Souza , Marques Marilene Ghiraldi de Souza , Lalucci Marielle Priscila de Paula Silva , Perli Victor Augusto Santos , Aizava Paulo Vitor Suto , Hernandez-Martinez Jordan , Valdés-Badilla Pablo , Branco Braulio Henrique Magnani
Published: October 2024

Background: The aim was to investigate the effects of 12 and 24 weeks of interdisciplinary interventions on health-related physical fitness, biochemical markers, and food processing levels in overweight or obese adolescents. Methods: Thirty-one adolescents completed 24 weeks of nutritional, psychoeducational, and physical activity interventions in addition to assessments and tests carried out before, at 12 weeks, and after 24 weeks. Results: There were increases in lean mass (p = 0.003) and decreases in absolute and relative fat mass (p < 0.001) for both sexes, as well as increases in flexibility on the right and left sides (p < 0.001), maximum oxygen consumption (p < 0.001) increased after the interventions, time spent in isometric exercises on the plank increased (p > 0.05), total cholesterol after 12 weeks decreased (p = 0.014), triglycerides were reduced (p = 0.002), low-density lipoproteins were reduced (p < 0.001), consumption of more processed foods after 24 weeks decreased (p < 0.001), consumption of fresh foods in grams and kilocalories increased (p < 0.001), and, in addition, the consumption of processed and ultra-processed foods was reduced (p = 0.020). Conclusions: The 24-week interventions promoted superior benefits for adolescents’ physical, nutritional, and biochemical health, although the dropout rate was high (~50%).
Factors Influencing Behaviors to Reduce the Spread of COVID-19 Among Indigenous Families in the Southwest, United States
Authors: Oguntade Habibat A. , Pontes Miya , Pablo Karlita , Pablo Elliott , Goklish Novalene , Stifter Meredith , Tingey Lauren , Barlow Allison , Hammitt Laura L. , Cwik Mary
Published: October 2024

Indigenous communities in the United States (U.S.) have been disproportionately impacted by COVID-19, yet they have led efforts to combat the pandemic by providing local solutions that minimize viral transmission and promote vaccine uptake. Understanding facilitators and barriers to recommended behaviors can increase adherence and reduce COVID-19 transmission. We conducted a descriptive qualitative study using in-depth interviews with 19 Indigenous adults residing on Tribal Lands in the Southwest U.S. between June and December 2021. Interview questions explored obstacles and motivators to testing, as well as behavioral recommendations to reduce COVID-19 transmission and increase vaccination. Using a qualitative content analysis approach, we identified barriers and facilitators to behavioral change. Barriers to testing included fear of exposure to COVID-19 at testing locations and discomfort from nasal swabs. Facilitators of testing were access, required testing, and protecting loved ones. Barriers to vaccination were discouraging stories about vaccination side effects and uncertainty about the ingredients and effectiveness of vaccines. Another barrier to vaccination was confusion and fairness related to vaccine eligibility, which discouraged some people from becoming vaccinated, despite intentions to do so. This study identified obstacles and motivators influencing COVID-19 testing and vaccination. The results may help address information gaps and improve public health efforts to reduce COVID-19 transmission and other similar infectious agents in Indigenous communities.
Mining Spatiotemporal Mobility Patterns Using Improved Deep Time Series Clustering
Authors: Zhang Ziyi , Li Diya , Zhang Zhe , Duffield Nick
Published: October 2024

Mining spatiotemporal mobility patterns is crucial for optimizing urban planning, enhancing transportation systems, and improving public safety by providing useful insights into human movement and behavior over space and time. As an unsupervised learning technique, time series clustering has gained considerable attention due to its efficiency. However, the existing literature has often overlooked the inherent characteristics of mobility data, including high-dimensionality, noise, outliers, and time distortions. This oversight can lead to potentially large computational costs and inaccurate patterns. To address these challenges, this paper proposes a novel neural network-based method integrating temporal autoencoder and dynamic time warping-based K-means clustering algorithm to mutually promote each other for mining spatiotemporal mobility patterns. Comparative results showed that our proposed method outperformed several time series clustering techniques in accurately identifying mobility patterns on both synthetic and real-world data, which provides a reliable foundation for data-driven decision-making. Furthermore, we applied the method to monthly county-level mobility data during the COVID-19 pandemic in the U.S., revealing significant differences in mobility changes between rural and urban areas, as well as the impact of public response and health considerations on mobility patterns.
Diagnostic Performance of Prostate-Specific Membrane Antigen-Targeted Positron Emission Tomography in Patients Diagnosed with Different Types of Breast Cancer: A Systematic Review
Authors: Rizzo Alessio , Albano Domenico , Marchiò Caterina , Dondi Francesco , Racca Manuela , Bertagna Francesco , Fiz Francesco , Piccardo Arnoldo , Treglia Giorgio
Published: October 2024

Recent research has proposed using positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) along with the administration of prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA)-targeting radiopharmaceuticals to identify breast cancer (BC) lesions. An extensive literature review to investigate the possible diagnostic utility of PET/CT with PSMA-targeting radiopharmaceuticals in BC patients was performed. The research comprised different clinical scenarios, including both newly diagnosed BC patients and those who had experienced disease relapse. This updated systematic review encompassed six studies investigating the diagnostic efficacy of PSMA-targeted PET/CT in BC. Throughout all clinical settings investigated, the papers presented data demonstrating a modest diagnostic performance of PSMA-targeted PET/CT in different subtypes of BC. In this setting, PSMA-guided PET/CT showed slightly higher accuracy in patients diagnosed with triple-negative BC. Based on the current literature, PSMA-targeted PET/CT cannot be suggested as a diagnostic tool to assess BC extent in any clinical scenario. However, based on the PSMA expression observed in triple-negative patients, it can be proposed as a tool to evaluate whether BC patients could benefit from PSMA-targeting radioligand therapy.
Ginsenoside Rg3 Improved Age-Related Macular Degeneration Through Inhibiting ROS-Mediated Mitochondrion-Dependent Apoptosis In Vivo and In Vitro
Authors: Hu Rui-Yi , Qi Si-Min , Wang Ya-Jun , Li Wen-Lin , Zou Wan-Chen , Wang Zi , Ren Shen , Li Wei
Published: October 2024

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is marked by a progressive loss of central vision and is the third leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. The exact mechanisms driving the progression of this macular degenerative condition remain elusive, and as of now, there are no available preventative measures for dry AMD. According to ancient records, ginseng affects the eyes by brightening them and enhancing wisdom. Modern pharmacological research shows that the active ingredients in ginseng, ginsenosides, may be used to prevent or improve eye diseases that threaten vision. Some articles have reported that ginsenoside Rg3 can treat diabetic retinopathy in mice, but no reports exist on its effects and mechanisms in AMD. Therefore, the role and mechanism of ginsenoside Rg3 in AMD warrant further study. This study aims to investigate the effects of Rg3 on AMD and its underlying molecular mechanisms. We established a mouse model of AMD to examine the impact of ginsenoside Rg3 on NaIO3-induced apoptosis in the retina and to explore the related intrinsic mechanisms. The in vivo results indicated that ginsenoside Rg3 prevents NaIO3-induced apoptosis in retinal pigment epithelial cells by inhibiting reactive oxygen species production and preventing the reduction in mitochondrial membrane potential. Additionally, we assessed the levels of protein expression within the apoptosis pathway. Ginsenoside Rg3 decreased the expression of Bax, cleaved caspase-3, and cleaved caspase-9 proteins. Additionally, it increased the expression of Bcl-2 by decreasing P-JNK levels. Moreover, our in vivo results showed that ginsenoside Rg3 enhanced retinal structure, increased the relative thickness of the retina, and decreased the extent of disorganization in both the inner and outer nuclear layers. Ginsenoside Rg3 may safeguard the retina against NaIO3-induced cell apoptosis by attenuating reactive-oxygen-species-mediated mitochondrial dysfunction, in which the JNK signaling pathway is also involved. These findings suggest that ginsenoside Rg3 has the potential to prevent or attenuate the progression of AMD and other retinal pathologies associated with NaIO3-mediated apoptosis.
17β-Estradiol Abrogates TNF-α-Induced Human Brain Vascular Pericyte Migration by Downregulating miR-638 via ER-β
Authors: Kurmann Lisa , Azzarito Giovanna , Leeners Brigitte , Rosselli Marinella , Dubey Raghvendra K.
Published: October 2024

Pericytes (PCs) contribute to brain capillary/BBB integrity and PC migration is a hallmark for brain capillary leakage following pro-inflammatory insults. Estradiol promotes endothelial barrier integrity by inhibiting tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α)-induced PC migration. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Since micro-RNAs (miRs) regulate BBB integrity and increases in miR638 and TNF-α occur in pathological events associated with capillary leakage, we hypothesize that TNF-α mediates its capillary disruptive actions via miR638 and that estradiol blocks these actions. Using quantitative reverse transcription PCR, we first assessed the modulatory effects of TNF-α on miR638. The treatment of PCs with TNF-α significantly induced miR638. Moreover, transfection with miR638 mimic induced PC migration, whereas inhibitory miR638 (anti-miR) abrogated the pro-migratory actions of TNF-α, suggesting that TNF-α stimulates PC migration via miR638. At a molecular level, the pro-migratory effects of miR638 involved the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 but not Akt. Interestingly, estradiol downregulated the constitutive and TNF-α-stimulated expression of miR638 and inhibited the TNF-α-induced migration of PCs. In PCs treated with estrogen receptor (ER) ER-α, ER-β, and GPR30 agonists, a significant downregulation in miR638 expression was solely observed in response to DPN, an ER-β agonist. DPN inhibited the pro-migratory effects of TNF-α but not miR638. Additionally, the ectopic expression of miR638 prevented the inhibitory effects of DPN on TNF-α-induced PC migration, suggesting that interference in miR638 formation plays a key role in mediating the inhibitory actions of estradiol/DPN. In conclusion, these findings provide the first evidence that estradiol inhibits TNF-α-induced PC migration by specifically downregulating miR638 via ER-β and may protect the neurovascular unit during injury/stroke via this mechanism.
Exploring the Impact of Resistance Training at Moderate Altitude on Metabolic Cytokines in Humans: Implications for Adipose Tissue Dynamics
Authors: Pérez-Regalado Sergio , Leon Josefa , Padial Paulino , Benavente Cristina , Almeida Filipa , Bonitch-Góngora Juan , de la Fuente Blanca , Feriche Belén
Published: October 2024

Hypobaric hypoxia (HH) limits oxygen supply to tissues and increases metabolic demands, especially during exercise. We studied the influence of HH exposure on the subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) thickness and circulating metabolic-related cytokines levels after a resistance training (RT) program. Twenty trained men participated in a traditional hypertrophy RT for 8 weeks (three sessions/week) under intermittent terrestrial HH (2320 m) or normoxia (N, 690 m) conditions. Before, at week 6, and after the RT, SAT, and vastus lateralis (VL) muscle thickness were measured by ultrasound. Blood samples were taken to analyse serum cytokines (IL-6, IL-15, irisin, and myostatin) by multiplex immunoassay. Our findings revealed a moderate reduction in IL-6 and irisin in HH following the RT (ES < −0.64; p < 0.05). Additionally, RT in HH promoted serum IL-15 release (ES = 0.890; p = 0.062), which exhibited a trivial inverse association with the reductions observed on SAT (−17.69%; p < 0.001) compared with N. RT in HH explained ~50% of SAT variance (p < 0.001). These results highlight the benefit of stressor factors linked to RT in HH on SAT through the modulation of serum metabolic cytokine profiles, suggesting a potential effect on overall body composition.
Exploring the Frontier of Cyclic Dipeptides: A Bioinformatics Approach to Potential Therapeutic Applications in Schizophrenia
Authors: Li Xingyu , Nong Xuexiang , Yang Jun , Li Minyue , Wang Qiuling , Sun Min , Ma Qichen , Xu Ling , Wang Yuehu
Published: October 2024

Cyclic dipeptides (CDPs), known for their diverse biological activities, have potential therapeutic applications in mental and behavioral disorders (MBDs), particularly schizophrenia. This study explores the CDPs’ therapeutic potential using bibliometric analysis, network pharmacology, molecular docking, and experimental verification, focusing on the interactions with the SIGMA1 receptor. A literature review over three decades utilizing the Web of Science Core Collection (WOSCC) was conducted to identify the emerging trends in CDPs research. A compound library was constructed from the PubChem database, and target prediction using SwissTargetPrediction revealed 800 potential protein targets. A compound–target network highlighted the key interactions with kinases, G protein-coupled receptors, and chromatin-modifying enzymes. Enrichment analysis revealed significant associations with schizophrenia and other MBDs. Schizophrenia-related targets among the potential protein targets were identified using the GEO database. Molecular docking results showed interactions of MC4R, OPRK1, SIGMA1, and CDK5R1 with various CDPs compounds, with SIGMA1 being especially noteworthy. Most CDPs exhibited lower binding energies than the control compounds NE-100 and duloxetine. Experimental validation demonstrated that CDPs such as Cyclo(Ala-Gln), Cyclo(Ala-His), and Cyclo(Val-Gly) exhibited IC50 values of 13.4, 19.4, and 11.5 μM, respectively, against SIGMA1, indicating biological activity. Our findings underscore their potential as therapeutic agents for schizophrenia, highlighting the need for further modifications to enhance specificity and efficacy. This work paves the way for future investigations into CDPs, contributing to developing targeted treatments for schizophrenia and related mental health disorders.
The Role of the Skin Microbiome in Acne: Challenges and Future Therapeutic Opportunities
Authors: Niedźwiedzka Alicja , Micallef Maria Pia , Biazzo Manuele , Podrini Christine
Published: October 2024

Acne vulgaris is a widespread dermatological condition that significantly affects the quality of life of adolescents and adults. Traditionally, acne pathogenesis has been linked to factors such as excess sebum production, follicular hyperkeratinization, and the presence of Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes). However, recent studies have highlighted the role of the skin microbiome, shifting focus from individual pathogens to microbial community dynamics. This review critically evaluates existing research on the skin microbiome and its relationship to acne, focusing on microbial diversity, C. acnes strain variability, and emerging therapies targeting the microbiome. While certain studies associate C. acnes with acne severity, others show this bacterium’s presence in healthy skin, suggesting that strain-specific differences and overall microbial balance play crucial roles. Emerging therapeutic approaches, such as probiotics and bacteriophage therapy, aim to restore microbial equilibrium or selectively target pathogenic strains without disturbing the broader microbiome. However, the lack of standardized methodologies, limited longitudinal studies, and the narrow focus on bacterial communities are major limitations in current research. Future research should explore the broader skin microbiome, including fungi and viruses, use consistent methodologies, and focus on longitudinal studies to better understand microbial fluctuations over time. Addressing these gaps will enable the development of more effective microbiome-based treatments for acne. In conclusion, while microbiome-targeted therapies hold promise, further investigation is needed to validate their efficacy and safety, paving the way for innovative, personalized acne management strategies.
Use of Hydrogels in Regenerative Medicine: Focus on Mechanical Properties
Authors: Carton Flavia , Rizzi Manuela , Canciani Elena , Sieve Gianluca , Di Francesco Dalila , Casarella Simona , Di Nunno Luca , Boccafoschi Francesca
Published: October 2024

Bioengineered materials represent an innovative option to support the regenerative processes of damaged tissues, with the final objective of creating a functional environment closely mimicking the native tissue. Among the different available biomaterials, hydrogels represent the solution of choice for tissue regeneration, thanks to the easy synthesis process and the highly tunable physical and mechanical properties. Moreover, hydrogels are biocompatible and biodegradable, able to integrate in biological environments and to support cellular interactions in order to restore damaged tissues’ functionality. This review offers an overview of the current knowledge concerning hydrogel synthesis and characterization and of the recent achievements in their experimental use in supporting skin, bone, cartilage, and muscle regeneration. The currently available in vitro and in vivo results are of great interest, highlighting the need for carefully designed and controlled preclinical studies and clinical trials to support the transition of these innovative biomaterials from the bench to the bedside.
Copper Oxide Nanoparticles Induce Pulmonary Inflammation and Exacerbate Asthma via the TXNIP Signaling Pathway
Authors: Kim Woong-Il , Pak So-Won , Lee Se-Jin , Park Sin-Hyang , Lim Je-Oh , Shin In-Sik , Kim Jong-Choon , Kim Sung-Hwan
Published: October 2024

Copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) have seen increasing use across various industries, raising significant concerns about their potential toxicity and the exacerbation of pre-existing conditions like asthma. Asthma, a chronic inflammatory condition of the airways, can be triggered or worsened by environmental factors such as allergens, air pollutants, and chemicals, including nanoparticles. This study aimed to investigate the pulmonary toxicity induced by CuO NPs and their impact on asthma, with a particular focus on the role of thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP). Using an ovalbumin (OVA)-induced asthma model, we found that CuO NP exposure led to significant increases in inflammatory cell infiltration, cytokine production, airway hyperresponsiveness, OVA-specific immunoglobulin (Ig)E levels, and mucus production. These pathological changes were closely associated with the upregulation of TXNIP-related signaling pathways, including phosphorylated apoptosis signal-regulating kinase (p-ASK)1, the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, and cleaved caspase-3 activation. Complementary in vitro experiments using NCI-H292 respiratory epithelial cells showed that CuO NP treatment enhanced TXNIP signaling and increased mRNA expression and the production of inflammatory cytokines. Notably, TXNIP knockdown significantly attenuated these CuO NP-induced effects. In conclusion, our findings suggest that CuO NP exposure not only induces pulmonary toxicity but also exacerbates asthma, primarily through the activation of the TXNIP signaling pathway.
Genomic Identification and Expression Analysis of Regulator of Chromosome Condensation 1-Domain Protein Family in Maize
Authors: Liu Rui , Ma Tian , Li Yu , Lei Xiongbiao , Ji Hongjing , Du Hewei , Zhang Jianhua , Cao Shi-Kai
Published: October 2024

Abiotic stress affects the growth and development of maize (Zea mays). The regulator of chromosome condensation 1 (RCC1)-containing proteins (RCPs) plays crucial roles in plant growth and development and response to abiotic stresses. However, a comprehensive analysis of the maize RCP family has not been reported in detail. This study presents a systematic bioinformatics analysis of the ZmRCP family, identifying a total of 30 members distributed across nine chromosomes. The physicochemical properties and cis-acting elements in the promoters of ZmRCP members are predicted. The results of subcellular localization showed that ZmRCP3 and ZmRCP10 are targeted to mitochondria and ZmRCP2 is localized in the nucleus. A heatmap of expression levels among family members under abiotic stress conditions revealed varying degrees of induced expression, and the expression levels of 10 ZmRCP members were quantified using RT-qPCR under abiotic stress and plant hormone treatments. The results showed that ZmRCP members exhibit induced or inhibited responses to these abiotic stresses and plant hormones. These results contribute to a better understanding of the evolutionary history and potential role of the ZmRCP family in mediating responses to abiotic stress in maize.