bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of the Pre-Infiltration Temperature on the Liquid-Phase Infiltration Characteristics and the Magnetic Properties of Single-Domain GdBCO Bulk Superconductors
Authors: Wu Tingting , Yang Wanmin , Chen Li
Published: September 2024

In this study, the effect of the pre-infiltration temperature (Ti) on the liquid-phase infiltration characteristics and its effect on the magnetic properties of single-domain GdBCO bulks prepared by the top-seeded infiltration growth (TSIG) method are comprehensively investigated. The results reveal that (1) the liquid Ba-Cu-O phase (LP) did not uniformly infiltrate into the Gd2BaCuO5 (Gd-211) solid-phase pellet (SPP). (2) The initial melting and infiltration of the LP occurred at approximately 920 °C. The average infiltration depth and amount of LP that infiltrated the SPP increased with increasing Ti accompanied by the shrinkage and depletion of the LP pellet. (3) The LP penetrated up to the top surface of the SPP and uniformly infiltrated throughout the SPP when the Ti was approximately 960 °C and 1020 °C, respectively. (4) The mean Gd-211 particle size of the pre-infiltrated SPP increased from 1.94 µm at 920 °C to 2.52 µm at 1040 °C as the Ti rose. (5) The magnetic properties and microstructure of the single-domain GdBCO bulks were significantly influenced by the microstructure of the pre-infiltrated SPP. The largest levitation force of 35.64 N and trapped field of 0.23 T were obtained in the single-domain GdBCO bulks at an infiltration Ti of 960 °C.
The Clinical Utilisation and Duration of Treatment with HER2-Directed Therapies in HER2-Positive Recurrent or Metastatic Salivary Gland Cancers
Authors: Haigh Joseph Edward , Patel Karan , Rack Sam , Jiménez-Labaig Pablo , Betts Guy , Harrington Kevin Joseph , Metcalf Robert
Published: September 2024

Salivary gland cancers (SGC) are rare tumours with limited availability of systemic therapies. Some SGC subtypes overexpress HER2, and this represents a potential therapeutic target, but the evidence base is limited. This study sought to analyse real-world data on the efficacy of HER2-directed therapies in SGC. This is a retrospective observational study using anonymised data from commercial compassionate-use access registrations and a privately funded pharmacy prescribing register. Treatment duration was defined as the time from drug initiation to treatment discontinuation. Kaplan–Meier analysis of treatment duration was performed using R for Windows (v4.3.2). A case report is also provided of an exceptional responder. Eighteen patients were identified who received HER2-directed therapies for HER2-positive recurrent/metastatic SGC, and complete data on treatment duration was available for 15/18. Histology was salivary duct carcinoma in 13/18 patients, adenocarcinoma NOS in 4/18, and carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma in 1/18. The median treatment duration was 8.3 months (95% CI: 6.41-not reached), and the range was 1.0–47.0 months. Choice of HER2-directed therapy varied, with ado-trastuzumab emtasine being the most common (9/18). At the time of analysis, HER2-directed therapy was ongoing for 9/15, discontinued due to disease progression for 4/15, discontinued due to toxicity for 1/15, and 1/15 was discontinued for an unspecified reason. An exceptional responder experienced a complete response with a treatment duration of 47.0 months. These real-world data are comparable to the median PFS observed with HER2-directed therapies in phase II trials and support the use of HER2-directed therapies in this group.
Canadian Expert Recommendations on Safety Overview and Toxicity Management Strategies for Sacituzumab Govitecan Based on Use in Metastatic Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Manna Mita , Brabant Michelle , Greene Rowen , Chamberlain Michael Dean , Kumar Aalok , Alimohamed Nimira , Brezden-Masley Christine
Published: September 2024

Sacituzumab Govitecan (SG) is an antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) comprised of an anti-Trop-2 IgG1 molecule conjugated to SN-38, the active metabolite of irinotecan, via a pH-sensitive hydrolysable linker. As a result of recent Canadian funding for SG in advanced hormone receptor (HR)-positive breast cancer and triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), experience with using SG and managing adverse events (AEs) has grown. This review presents a summary of evidence and adverse event recommendations derived from Canadian experience, with SG use in metastatic TNBC for extrapolation and guidance in all indicated settings. SG is dosed at 10 mg/kg on day 1 and day 8 of a 21-day cycle. Compared to treatment of physicians’ choice (TPC) the phase III ASCENT and TROPiCS-02 studies demonstrated favorable survival data in unresectable locally advanced or metastatic TNBC and HR-positive HER2 negative metastatic breast cancer, respectively. The most common AEs were neutropenia, diarrhea, nausea, fatigue, alopecia, and anemia. This review outlines AE management recommendations for SG based on clinical trial protocols and Canadian guidelines, incorporating treatment delay, dose reductions, and the use of prophylactic and supportive medications.
Elevated Microsatellite Alterations at Selected Tetranucleotide Repeats (EMAST) in Penile Squamous Cell Carcinoma—No Evidence for a Role in Carcinogenesis
Authors: Fiegl August , Wendler Olaf , Giedl Johannes , Gaisa Nadine T. , Richter Georg , Campean Valentina , Burger Maximilian , Simmer Femke , Nagtegaal Iris , Wullich Bernd , Bertz Simone , Hartmann Arndt , Stoehr Robert
Published: September 2024

Penile squamous cell carcinoma (pSCC) is a rare malignancy with a global incidence ranging from 0.1 to 0.7 per 100,000 males. Prognosis is generally favorable for localized tumors, but metastatic pSCC remains challenging, with low survival rates. The role of novel biomarkers, such as tumor mutational burden (TMB) and microsatellite instability (MSI), in predicting the response to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has been investigated in various cancers. However, MSI has not been observed in pSCC, limiting immunotherapy options for this patient subgroup. Elevated microsatellite alterations at selected tetranucleotide repeats (EMAST) are a distinct form of genomic instability associated with deficient MSH3 expression, which has been proposed as a potential biomarker in several cancers. This study investigates EMAST and MSH3 expression in a cohort of 78 pSCC cases using PCR, fragment analysis and immunohistochemistry. For the detection of EMAST, the stability of five microsatellite markers (D9S242, D20S82, MYCL1, D8S321 and D20S85) was analyzed. None of the cases showed an instability. As for MSH3 immunohistochemistry, all analyzable cases showed retained MSH3 expression. These results strongly suggest that neither EMAST nor MSH3 deficiency is involved in the carcinogenesis of pSCC and do not represent reliable predictive biomarkers in this entity. Furthermore, these findings are in full agreement with our previous study showing a very low frequency of MSI and further support the thesis that EMAST and MSI are strongly interconnected forms of genomic instability. Further research is needed to explore novel therapeutic targets and predictive biomarkers for immunotherapy in this patient population.
Lymphopenia Induced by Different Neoadjuvant Chemo-Radiotherapy Schedules in Patients with Rectal Cancer: Bone Marrow as an Organ at Risk
Authors: Nanos Christos , Koukourakis Ioannis M. , Mulita Admir , Avgousti Raphaela , Kouloulias Vassilios , Zygogianni Anna , Koukourakis Michael I.
Published: September 2024

Radiotherapy (RT)-induced lymphopenia may hinder the anti-tumor immune response. Preoperative RT or chemo-RT (CRT) for locally advanced rectal cancer is a standard therapeutic approach, while immunotherapy has been approved for mismatch repair-deficient rectal tumors. We retrospectively analyzed 98 rectal adenocarcinoma patients undergoing neoadjuvant CRT with VMAT (groups A, B, C) or IMRT (group D) techniques, with four different RT schemes: group A (n = 24): 25 Gy/5 Gy/fraction plus a 0.2 Gy/fraction rectal tumor boost; group B (n = 22): 34 Gy/3.4 Gy/fraction, with a 1-week treatment break after the first five RT fractions; group C (n = 20): 46 Gy/2 Gy/fraction plus a 0.2 Gy/fraction rectal tumor boost; group D (n = 32): 45 Gy/1.8 Gy/fraction followed by 5.4 Gy/1.8 Gy/fraction to the rectal tumor. We examined the effect of the time-corrected normalized total dose (NTD-T) to the BM on lymphopenia. Groups A and B (hypofractionated RT) had significantly higher lymphocyte counts (LCs) after RT than groups C and D (p < 0.03). An inverse association between the LCs after RT and NTD-T was demonstrated (p = 0.01). An NTD-T threshold of 30 Gy delivered to 30% of the BM volume emerged as a potential constraint for RT planning, which could be successfully integrated in the RT plan. Hypofractionated and accelerated RT schemes, and BM-sparing techniques may reduce lymphocytic damage and prove critical for immuno-RT clinical trials.
Ocular and Periocular Tattoo Adverse Effects: A Review
Authors: Lee Kar Wai Alvin , Chan Lisa Kwin Wah , Lee Angela Wai Kay , Lee Cheuk Hung , Wan Jovian , Yi Kyu-Ho
Published: September 2024

Background: Ocular and periocular tattoos, involving ink application to the eyeball or surrounding skin, have gained popularity as forms of self-expression. However, this trend raises significant concerns about potential complications that can adversely affect ocular health and esthetics. Awareness of these risks is crucial for both patients and practitioners. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted, focusing on studies discussing complications related to ocular and periocular tattooing. Relevant studies were identified through the MEDLINE, PubMed, and Ovid databases. The reviewed papers were evaluated based on study design, including blinding, sample size, control use, randomization, and objective endpoints, and classified according to the Oxford Center for Evidence-Based Medicine evidence hierarchy. Results: The review identified a wide range of complications, including immediate issues like bleeding, infections (conjunctivitis, endophthalmitis), and allergic reactions. Delayed reactions included granuloma formation, often requiring further treatment. The most serious risk identified was potential visual impairment due to improper technique or ink placement. Conclusions: With the growing trend in ocular and periocular tattooing, there is an urgent need for increased awareness of associated risks. It is crucial to ensure that only qualified professionals perform these procedures, emphasizing the importance of understanding ocular anatomy. Developing strict regulatory guidelines and prioritizing research on the long-term effects of these tattoos are essential for patient safety. A collaborative approach among healthcare providers, regulatory bodies, and educational institutions is needed to mitigate risks and promote best practices in cosmetic tattooing.
A Comparative Analysis of International Classification Systems to Predict the Risk of Collapse in Single-Level Osteoporotic Vertebral Fractures
Authors: Láinez Ramos-Bossini Antonio Jesús , Jiménez Gutiérrez Paula María , Luengo Gómez David , Rivera Izquierdo Mario , Benítez José Manuel , Ruiz Santiago Fernando
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Various classifications for osteoporotic vertebral fractures (OVFs) have been introduced to enhance patient care and facilitate clinical communication. However, there is limited evidence of their effectiveness in predicting vertebral collapse, and very few studies have compared this association across different classification systems. This study aims to investigate the association between OVF categories, according to the most widely used classification systems, and vertebral collapse. Patients and Methods: A retrospective single-center study was conducted involving patients diagnosed with acute OVFs at the emergency department of a tertiary-level academic hospital with a minimum follow-up of 6 months. Vertebral fractures were independently classified by two radiologists according to several classification systems, including those proposed by Genant, Sugita, the German Society for Orthopedics and Trauma (DGOU), and the AO Spine. Associations between vertebral collapse and OVF classification systems were analyzed using bivariate and logistic regression analyses. Results: This study included 208 patients (82.7% females; mean age of 72.6 ± 9.2 years). The median follow-up time was 15 months, with L1 being the most common fracture site (47.6%). The most frequent OVF types observed, according to Genant’s morphological, Genant’s quantitative, Sugita ’s, DGOU’s, and AO Spine’s classifications, were biconcave (50%), grade 0.5 (47.6%), bow-shaped (61.5%), OF2 (74%), and A1 (61.5%), respectively. All classifications, except for Genant’s quantitative system, were significantly associated with vertebral collapse in bivariate analyses. Logistic regression analyses showed a significant association (p = 0.002) between the AO Spine classification and vertebral collapse, with 85.7% of A4 fractures developing collapse on follow-up. Conclusions: The AO Spine classification showed the highest predictive capacity for vertebral collapse. Specifically, A4 fracture types showed a very high risk of vertebral collapse, confirming the need for non-conservative management of these fractures. Further multicentric and prospective studies are warranted to confirm these findings.
The Endoscopic Management of Zenker’s Diverticulum: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Dell’Anna Giuseppe , Fasulo Ernesto , Fanizza Jacopo , Barà Rukaia , Vespa Edoardo , Barchi Alberto , Cecinato Paolo , Fuccio Lorenzo , Annese Vito , Malesci Alberto , Azzolini Francesco , Danese Silvio , Mandarino Francesco Vito
Published: September 2024

Zenker’s Diverticulum (ZD) is the most common hypopharyngeal diverticulum; however, it is often underdiagnosed. It results from the herniation of the mucosa and submucosa through Killian’s Triangle. Dysphagia is the primary symptom, occurring in 80–90% of cases. The primary goal of treatment is to transect the cricopharyngeal muscle (CM) and connect the ZD cavity to the esophageal lumen. Traditional treatments include surgical open transcervical diverticulectomy and CM septomyotomy, using rigid or flexible endoscopes. However, surgery is burdened by technical difficulties and not negligible rates of adverse events (AEs). For this reason, endoscopic techniques for ZD treatment have gained traction in recent years. Flexible endoscopic septum division (FESD), introduced nearly 20 years ago, involves a full-thickness incision of the diverticular septum. The advent of third-space endoscopy has led to the application of these techniques to ZD treatment as well. Zenker-POEM (Z-POEM) and, subsequently, Per Oral Endoscopic Septomyotomy (POES) have been developed. Hybrid techniques, such as Peroral Endoscopic Diverticulotomy (POED) and tunneling-free methods, represent additional ZD treatment options. This review outlines the armamentarium of ZD endoscopic management, summarizing the characteristics of these techniques, their benefits and limitations, and highlighting future research directions.
Machine Learning-Based Prediction of Clinical Outcomes in Microsurgical Clipping Treatments of Cerebral Aneurysms
Authors: Toader Corneliu , Brehar Felix-Mircea , Radoi Mugurel Petrinel , Covache-Busuioc Razvan-Adrian , Glavan Luca-Andrei , Grama Matei , Corlatescu Antonio-Daniel , Costin Horia Petre , Bratu Bogdan-Gabriel , Popa Andrei Adrian , Serban Matei , Ciurea Alexandru Vladimir
Published: September 2024

Background: This study investigates the application of Machine Learning techniques to predict clinical outcomes in microsurgical clipping treatments of cerebral aneurysms, aiming to enhance healthcare processes through informed clinical decision making. Methods: Relying on a dataset of 344 patients’ preoperative characteristics, various ML classifiers were trained to predict outcomes measured by the Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS). The study’s results were reported through the means of ROC-AUC scores for outcome prediction and the identification of key predictors using SHAP analysis. Results: The trained models achieved ROC-AUC scores of 0.72 ± 0.03 for specific GOS outcome prediction and 0.78 ± 0.02 for binary classification of outcomes. The SHAP explanation analysis identified intubation as the most impactful factor influencing treatment outcomes’ predictions for the trained models. Conclusions: The study demonstrates the potential of ML for predicting surgical outcomes of ruptured cerebral aneurysm treatments. It acknowledged the need for high-quality datasets and external validation to enhance model accuracy and generalizability.
A Prototype for Monitoring the Continuing Education of Indigenous Health Professionals: A Study with the Indigenous Health Secretariat of the Brazilian Ministry of Health
Authors: Dantas Lucas Alves da Nóbrega Alberto , Fey Vladimir Arthur , Richartz Fernando , Reis Luiza Santangelo , Rosa Fabricia Silva da , Lunkes Rogério João , Costa Ana Carolina da
Published: September 2024

This study proposes a prototype (Business Intelligence) for monitoring the continuing education of indigenous health professionals in the Secretariat of Indigenous Health (SESAI) of Brazil’s Ministry of Health (MS). The prototype builds on SESAI/MS staff knowledge and takes into account the characteristics and demands of the 34 Special Indigenous Health Districts (DSEIs). The prototype provides information for managing SESAI/MS continuing education in order to meet strategic goals. By improving the effectiveness and efficiency of the continuing education of professionals who serve Brazil’s indigenous population, we will be acting directly on access issues and improving the quality of life of the indigenous population.
The Pilot Study on the Effect of a Compassion-Based Program on Gifted Junior High School Students’ Emotional Styles, Self-Compassion, Empathy, and Well-Being
Authors: Tsai Min-Ying
Published: September 2024

This study investigated the impact of compassion-based programs on gifted students’ emotional style, self-compassion, empathy, and well-being. The study conducted a quasi-experimental study of 30 academically gifted junior high school students in the eighth grade in Taiwan. Seventeen students were in the experimental group, and 13 were in the control group. The study adopted an emotional style scale, a self-compassion scale, an empathy scale, and a well-being scale. Covariance analysis was used to analyze the data. The results found that the students in the experimental group scored significantly higher than the students in the control group on some subscales and total scores of four tests in part. Students also learned more about themselves, identified and adjusted cognitive patterns, communicative skills, and so on, based on their feedback. The results provide some suggestions about future curriculum design, instruction, and counseling based on positive psychology.
Potential of Students to Become Entrepreneurs in the Chemical Industry
Authors: Walther Sebastian , Haubold Stephan , Dobrucka Renata
Published: September 2024

Chempreneurs are revolutionary entrepreneurs who have been trained at a chemistry faculty. They are expected to find innovative solutions for current challenges to the chemical industry, such as sustainability. Innovative chemical entrepreneurship is the art of commercialising innovations from chemistry for a broad audience outside the classroom. Innovative ideas that are implemented with societal relevance offer the potential for individuals/graduates to generate income and promote the economy, thus offering students the opportunity to lay the foundation for a career with innovations developed in class. The probability of a German chemistry student founding a company is 54% lower than for the average German student. Previous studies show the potential effects of social capital, the subjective norm, motives and barriers for chemistry students in Germany. In this study, we tested these hypotheses by implementing entrepreneurship education. Two surveys, one before class and one with a one-week delay, were conducted with first- and third-semester chemistry bachelor students at the Fresenius University of Applied Sciences in Idstein, Germany. We conducted the surveys to understand how students view chemistry career opportunities through entrepreneurship and how to change this mindset. Finally, we propose a pedagogy to introduce/expand entrepreneurship in chemistry and discuss approaches for future research.
University Students’ Insights of Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) Writing Tools
Authors: Gasaymeh Al-Mothana M. , Beirat Mohammad A. , Abu Qbeita Asma’a A.
Published: September 2024

The current study examined university students’ insights into generative AI writing tools regarding their familiarity with, perceived concerns about, and perceived benefits of these tools in their academic work. The study used a cross-sectional descriptive research design, and data were collected using a questionnaire instrument. The participants were ninety-five undergraduate and graduate students from a College of Education at a university in Jordan. The results show that university students show moderate familiarity with generative AI writing tools (M = 3.14, SD = 0.81), especially in engagement but lacking technical knowledge. They also have moderate concerns (M = 3.35, SD = 0.85), particularly about misinformation and data security. Despite these concerns, students recognize the benefits (M = 3.62, SD = 0.81), especially regarding the capabilities of these tools in simulating creativity and fostering innovation. In addition, the results showed that gender and educational level appear to have little effect on familiarity, concerns, and perceived benefits regarding these tools. Based on the findings, the study recommends enhancing students’ familiarity with generative AI tools through providing technical training, hands-on opportunities, and ethical discussions. In addition, the study recommends addressing students’ concerns regarding generative AI writing tools by improving data security related to generative AI, providing ethical guidelines regarding the use of these tools, and boosting AI literacy. Finally, it is recommended to enhance students’ perceptions of the benefits of generative AI writing tools by highlighting the creative potential of these tools within the educational setting, using these tools to offer personalized learning experiences that adapt to individual learning styles, and promoting collaboration through generative AI writing tools.
Degradation-Aware Derating of Lithium-Ion Battery Energy Storage Systems in the UK Power Market
Authors: Rajah Inessa , Sowe Jake , Schimpe Michael , Barreras Jorge Varela
Published: September 2024

As more renewable energy sources are integrated into the United Kingdom’s power grid, flexibility services are becoming integral to ensuring energy security. This has encouraged the proliferation of Lithium-ion battery storage systems, with 85 GW in development. However, battery degradation impacts both system lifespan and the economic viability of large-scale projects. With rising commodity costs and supply chain issues, maximising the value of energy storage is critical. Traditional methods of mitigating battery ageing rely on static limits based on inflexible warranties, which do not fully account for the complexity of battery degradation. This study examined an alternative, degradation-aware current derating strategy to improve system performance. Using an optimisation model simulating UK energy trading, combined with an electro-thermal and semi-empirical battery model, we assessed the impact of this approach. Interviews with industry leaders validated the modelled parameters and the relevance of the alternative strategy. Results show the degradation-aware strategy can extend battery lifetime by 5–8 years and improve net present value and internal rate of return over a 15-year period compared with traditional methods. These findings highlight the economic benefits of flexible, degradation-aware operational strategies and suggest that more adaptive warranties could accelerate renewable energy integration and lower costs for storage operators.
AIDETECT2: A Novel AI-Driven Signal Detection Approach for beyond 5G and 6G Wireless Networks
Authors: Babu Bibin , Daha Muhammad Yunis , Ashraf Muhammad Ikram , Khurshid Kiran , Hadi Muhammad Usman
Published: September 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing multiple-input-multiple-output (MIMO) technology, making it a promising contender for the coming sixth-generation (6G) and beyond-fifth-generation (B5G) networks. However, the detection process in MIMO systems is highly complex and computationally demanding. To address this challenge, this paper presents an optimized AI-based signal detection method known as AIDETECT-2 which is based on feed forward neural network (FFNN) for MIMO systems. The proposed AIDETECT-2 network model demonstrates superior efficiency in signal detection in comparison with conventional and AI-based MIMO detection methods, particularly in terms of symbol error rate (SER) at various signal-to-noise ratios (SNR). This paper thoroughly explores various signal detection aspects using FFNN, including the design of system architecture, preparation of data, training processes of the network model, and performance evaluation. Simulation results show that the proposed model demonstrates a significant performance improvement ranging between 13.75% to 99.995% better SER compared to the best conventional method and also achieved between 56.52% to 97.69 better SER compared to benchmark AI-based MIMO detectors at 20 dB SNR for given MIMO scenarios respectively. It also presented the computational complexity analysis of different conventional and AI-based MIMO detectors. We believe that this optimized AI-based network model can serve as a comprehensive guide for deploying deep-learning (DL) neural networks for signal detection in the forthcoming 6G wireless networks.
High-Precision Forward Modeling of Controlled Source Electromagnetic Method Based on Weighted Average Extrapolation Method
Authors: Yang Zhi , Tang Jingtian , Huang Xiangyu , Yang Minsheng , Sun Yishu , Xiao Xiao
Published: September 2024

To achieve high-precision calculation of the electromagnetic field of layered media and to ensure that the apparent resistivity calculation and sensitivity are not affected by numerical errors, this paper implements high-precision calculation of the layered electromagnetic field based on the weighted average (WA) extrapolation method. Firstly, the 1D electromagnetic field expression of an arbitrary attitude field source is obtained by using the magnetic vector potential; then, the WA extrapolation technique is introduced to achieve the high-precision and fast solution of the Hankel transform, and the effects of the number of Gaussian points and the number of integration intervals on the accuracy are investigated. The theoretical model test shows that, compared with the open-source Dipole1D, the algorithm proposed in this paper has wider adaptability, and can achieve high-precision calculation of electric and magnetic dipole sources with higher efficiency. Compared with the epsilon algorithm studied by previous researchers, the WA extrapolation method proposed in this article can improve the convergence rate by approximately 20% under the same conditions. It can obtain high-precision numerical solutions with less integration time. The relative accuracy can reach the order 10−10, and its computational efficiency is significantly better than the existing epsilon algorithm. Finally, we used two cases of marine controlled source electromagnetic method to show the application. The sensitivity and Poynting vectors are calculated, which provides a technical tool for a deep understanding of physical mechanisms in layered media.
Research Trends and Usability Challenges in Behavioral Data-Based Cognitive Function Assessment
Authors: Jang Yoon , Kim Hui-Jun , Kim Sung-Hee
Published: September 2024

The prevalence of dementia, a condition associated with high social costs, is rising alongside the aging population. Early diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment (MCI), a precursor to dementia, is essential for effective intervention. Recent research has focused on diagnosing cognitive function in the elderly by analyzing behavioral data, such as gait and hand movements. Compared to traditional neuropsychological assessment methods, behavioral data-based assessments offer advantages, including reduced fatigue for patients and examiners, faster testing procedures, and more objective evaluation of results. This study reviews 15 research projects from the past five years (2018–2023) that have utilized behavioral data to assess cognitive function. It examines the specific gait and hand movement variables used, the technologies implemented, and user experiences reported in these studies. As these types of assessments require new technologies or environments, we analyzed usability issues that should be considered for accurate cognitive assessment. Based on this analysis, the paper proposes future directions for research in the field of behavioral data-based cognitive function assessment.
Exploration of Deep-Learning-Based Approaches for False Fact Identification in Social Judicial Systems
Authors: Zou Yuzhuo , Chen Jiepin , Cai Jiebin , Zhou Mengen , Pan Yinghui
Published: September 2024

With the many applications of artificial intelligence (AI) in social judicial systems, false fact identification becomes a challenging issue when the system is expected to be more autonomous and intelligent in assisting a judicial review. In particular, private lending disputes often involve false facts that are intentionally concealed and manipulated due to unique and dynamic relationships and their nonconfrontational nature in the judicial system. In this article, we investigate deep learning techniques to identify false facts in loan cases for the purpose of reducing the judicial workload. Specifically, we adapt deep-learning-based natural language processing techniques to a dataset over 100 real-world judicial rules spanning four courts of different levels in China. The BERT (bidirectional encoder representations from transformers)-based classifier and T5 text generation models were trained to classify false litigation claims semantically. The experimental results demonstrate that T5 has a robust learning capability with a small number of legal text samples, outperforms BERT in identifying falsified facts, and provides explainable decisions to judges. This research shows that deep-learning-based false fact identification approaches provide promising solutions for addressing concealed information and manipulation in private lending lawsuits. This highlights the feasibility of deep learning to strengthen fact-finding and reduce labor costs in the judicial field.
Energy Efficiency in Buildings: Performance Gaps and Sustainable Materials
Authors: Igugu Henry Odiri , Laubscher Jacques , Mapossa António Benjamim , Popoola Patricia Abimbola , Dada Modupeola
Published: September 2024

Real-world energy efficiency in the building sector is currently inadequate due to significant discrepancies between predicted and actual building energy performance. As operational energy is optimized through improved building envelopes, embodied energy typically increases, further exacerbating the problem. This gap underscores the critical need to re-evaluate current practices and materials used in energy-efficient building construction. It is well established that adopting a life cycle view of energy efficiency is essential to mitigate the building sector’s contribution to rising global energy consumption and CO2 emissions. Therefore, this study aims to examine existing research on sustainable building materials for life cycle energy efficiency. Specifically, it reviews recent research to identify key trends, challenges, and suggestions from tested novel materials. A combination of theoretical analysis and narrative synthesis is employed in a four-stage framework discussing the challenges, context, concepts, and the reviewed literature. Key trends include the growing adoption of sustainable materials, such as bio-fabricated and 3D printed materials, which offer improved insulation, thermal regulation, and energy management capabilities. Multifunctional materials with self-healing properties are also emerging as promising solutions for reducing energy loss and enhancing building durability. The focus on reusing materials from the agricultural, food production, and paper manufacturing industries in building construction highlights the opportunity to facilitate a circular economy. However, the challenges are substantial, with more research required to ascertain long-term performance, show opportunities to scale the implementation of these novel materials, and drive market acceptance.
Wildfire Spread Prediction Using Attention Mechanisms in U2-NET
Authors: Xiao Hongtao , Zhu Yingfang , Sun Yurong , Zhang Gui , Gong Zhiwei
Published: September 2024

Destructive wildfires pose a serious threat to ecosystems, economic development, and human life and property safety. If wildfires can be extinguished in a relatively short period of time after they occur, the losses caused by wildfires will be greatly reduced. Although deep learning methods have been shown to have powerful feature extraction capabilities, many current models still have poor generalization performance when faced with complex tasks. To this end, in this study, we considered introducing attention modules both inside and outside the nested U-shaped structure and trained a neural network model based on the U2-Net architecture to enable the model to suppress the activation of irrelevant areas. Compared with baseline models such as U-Net, our model has made great progress on the test set, with an F1 score improvement of at least 2.8%. The experimental results indicate that the model we proposed has certain practicality and can provide a significant scientific basis for forest fire management and emergency decision-making.
Neutral Red Film Augments Extracellular Electron Transfer Performed by Clostridium pasteurianum DSM 525
Authors: Zani Ana Clara Bonizol , de Souza João Carlos , de Andrade Adalgisa Rodrigues , Reginatto Valeria
Published: September 2024

Extracellular electron transfer (EET) is key to the success of microbial fuel cells (MFCs). Clostridium sp. often occurs in MFC anode communities, but its ability to perform EET remains controversial. We have employed Clostridium pasteurianum DSM 525 as a biocatalyst in a glycerol-fed MFC, designated MFCDSM. We have also followed the EET of this biocatalyst in the presence of a mediator, namely soluble neutral red (NR), soluble methyl viologen (MV), neutral red film (FNR), or methyl viologen film (FMV). MFCDSM provided power and current densities (j) of 0.39 μW·cm−2 and 2.47 μA·cm−2, respectively, which evidenced that the biocatalyst performs direct electron transfer (DET). Introducing 150.0 µM NR or MV into the MFCDSM improved the current density by 7.0- and 3.7-fold (17.05 and 8.45 μA·cm−2), respectively. After 20 cyclic voltammetry (CV) cycles, the presence of FNR in the MFCDSM anodic chamber provided an almost twofold higher current density (30.76 µA·cm−2) compared to the presence of NR in the MFCDSM. Introducing MV or FMV into the MFCDSM anodic chamber gave practically the same current density after 10 CV cycles. The MFCDSM anodic electrode might interact with FMV weakly than with FNR, so FNR is more promising to enhance C. pasteurianum DSM 525 EET within MFCDSM.
Isorhamnetin in Quinoa Whole-Grain Flavonoids Intervenes in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease by Modulating Bile Acid Metabolism through Regulation of FXR Expression
Authors: La Xiaoqin , Zhang Zhaoyan , Dong Cunli , Li Hanqing , He Xiaoting , Kang Yurui , Wu Changxin , Li Zhuoyu
Published: September 2024

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a severe hepatic health threat with no effective treatment. Based on the results that Chenopodium quinoa Willd. flavonoids eluted with 30% ethanol (CQWF30) can effectively alleviate NAFLD, this study employed ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography–electrospray ionization–tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-ESI-MS/MS) to analyze the components of CQWF30., and screened for flavonoids with potential NAFLD-mitigating effects through network pharmacology. In vitro models using HepG2 and BEL-7402 cell lines induced with free fatty acid (FFA) showed that isorhamnetin administration reduced intracellular lipid deposition and reversed elevated triglyceride (TG) and total cholesterol (T-CHO) levels. In vivo experiments in high-fat diet (HFD) mice demonstrated that isorhamnetin significantly lowered serum and liver fat content, mitigated liver damage, and modulated bile acid metabolism by upregulating FXR and BSEP and downregulating SLCO1B3. Consequently, isorhamnetin shows promise as a treatment for NAFLD due to its lipid-lowering and hepatoprotective activities.
Intestinal-Targeted Digestion of Heme Chloride by Forming Inclusion Complexes In Vitro
Authors: Yu Qianfan , Huang Li , Zhang Yuemei , Teng Wendi , Wang Ying , Cao Jinxuan , Wang Jinpeng
Published: September 2024

Hemin, a heme-like compound with significant biological activity, shows promise as an iron supplement for humans. Nonetheless, its poor solubility in water greatly impedes its absorption and utilization. To surmount this obstacle, researchers have chosen various cyclodextrins with distinct cavity sizes and derivative groups to act as hosts, forming inclusion complexes with hemin chloride. Among these, γ-cyclodextrin has been identified as the optimal carrier, based on a thorough evaluation of its encapsulation efficiency, solubility, and molecular docking. Multiple characterization techniques further confirmed the formation of these inclusion complexes. Results from IEC-6 cell experiments indicated that the cytotoxicity of the inclusion complexes was lower than that of FeSO4. Static and dynamic gastrointestinal simulation digestion systems were established, and the results showed that the bioavailability of the inclusion complex was significantly higher than that of raw hemin. Additionally, only about 0.29% of hemin chloride is digested by gastric enzymes, whereas 9.52% is digested by pancreatic enzymes in the static gastrointestinal simulation digestion system, with similar outcomes observed in the dynamic system. These findings suggest that targeted digestion in the intestine significantly enhances the bioavailability of hemin chloride by forming inclusion complexes in vitro.
Aggregative Swab Sampling Method for Romaine Lettuce Show Similar Quality and Safety Indicators and Microbial Profiles Compared to Composite Produce Leaf Samples in a Pilot Study
Authors: Gathman Rachel J. , Quintanilla Portillo Jorge , Reyes Gustavo A. , Sullivan Genevieve , Stasiewicz Matthew J.
Published: September 2024

Composite produce leaf samples from commercial production rarely test positive for pathogens, potentially due to low pathogen prevalence or the relatively small number of plants sampled. Aggregative sampling may offer a more representative alternative. This pilot study investigated whether aggregative swab samples performed similarly to produce leaf samples in their ability to recover quality indicators (APCs and coliforms), detect Escherichia coli, and recover representative microbial profiles. Aggregative swabs of the outer leaves of romaine plants (n = 12) and composite samples consisting of various grabs of produce leaves (n = 14) were collected from 60 by 28 ft sections of a one-acre commercial romaine lettuce field. Aerobic plate counts were 9.17 ± 0.43 and 9.21 ± 0.42 log(CFU/g) for produce leaf samples and swabs, respectively. Means and variance were not significantly different (p = 0.38 and p = 0.92, respectively). Coliform recoveries were 3.80 ± 0.76 and 4.19 ± 1.15 log(CFU/g) for produce leaf and swabs, respectively. Means and variances were not significantly different (p = 0.30 and p = 0.16, respectively). Swabs detected generic E. coli in 8 of 12 samples, more often than produce leaf samples (3 of 14 positive, Fisher’s p = 0.045). Full-length 16S rRNA microbial profiling revealed that swab and produce leaf samples did not show significantly different alpha diversities (p = 0.75) and had many of the most prevalent bacterial taxa in common and in similar abundances. These data suggest that aggregative swabs perform similarly to, if not better than, produce leaf samples in recovering indicators of quality (aerobic and coliform bacteria) and food safety (E. coli), justifying further method development and validation.
A Machine Learning Pipeline for Predicting Pinot Noir Wine Quality from Viticulture Data: Development and Implementation
Authors: Kulasiri Don , Somin Sarawoot , Kumara Pathirannahalage Samantha
Published: September 2024

The quality of wine depends upon the quality of the grapes, which, in turn, are affected by different viticulture aspects and the climate during the grape-growing season. Obtaining wine professionals’ judgments of the intrinsic qualities of selected wine products is a time-consuming task. It is also expensive. Instead of waiting for the wine to be produced, it is better to have an idea of the quality before harvesting, so that wine growers and wine manufacturers can use high-quality grapes. The main aim of the present study was to investigate the use of machine learning aspects in predicting Pinot Noir wine quality and to develop a pipeline which represents the major steps from vineyards to wine quality indices. This study is specifically related to Pinot Noir wines based on experiments conducted in vineyards and grapes produced from those vineyards. Climate factors and other wine production factors affect the wine quality, but our emphasis was to relate viticulture parameters to grape composition and then relate the chemical composition to quality as measured by the experts. This pipeline outputs the predicted yield, values for basic parameters of grape juice composition, values for basic parameters of the wine composition, and quality. We also found that the yield could be predicted because of input data related to the characteristics of the vineyards. Finally, through the creation of a web-based application, we investigated the balance of berry yield and wine quality. Using these tools further developed, vineyard owners should be able to predict the quality of the wine they intend to produce from their vineyards before the grapes are even harvested.
Insights into Tissue-Specific Specialized Metabolism in Wampee (Clausena lansium (Lour.) Skeels) Varieties
Authors: Zhang Ran , Zhou Junjie , Zhang Xiaoxuan , Hou Huanteng , Liu Xianqing , Yang Chenkun , Shen Shuangqian , Luo Jie
Published: September 2024

Wampee (Clausena lansium (Lour.) Skeels) has natural bioactive components with diverse health benefits, but its detailed metabolism and tissue distribution are not fully understood. Here, widely targeted metabolomics analysis methods were employed to analyze the wampee fruit (peel, pulp, and seed) of 17 different varieties. A total of 1286 metabolites were annotated, including lipids, flavonoids, polyphenols, carbazole alkaloids, coumarins, and organic acids, among others. The quantitative analysis and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization–mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI-MSI) analysis indicated remarkable variations in metabolite categories and content in the peel, pulp, and seed of wampee fruit. Additionally, the difference analysis found that the metabolic components of peel contributed dominantly to the differences among varieties, and 7 potential biomarkers were identified. In this study, a comprehensive metabolome landscape of wampee fruit was established, which provided important information for the isolation and identification of functional components, food industry application, and nutritional improvement breeding.
Microbiological Safety and Functional Properties of a Fermented Nut-Based Product
Authors: Tabanelli Giulia , Montanari Chiara , Gómez-Caravaca Ana M. , Díaz-de-Cerio Elixabet , Verardo Vito , Zadeh Fatemeh Shanbeh , Vannini Lucia , Gardini Fausto , Barbieri Federica
Published: September 2024

Fermented nut-based products, obtained after soaking and fermentation, are gaining increasing interest as animal food substitutes because of ethical, environmental and health reasons. In these products, Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB) perform the fermentation, leading to matrix acidification and contributing to controlling spoilage and pathogenic microbiota. In this work, LAB strains isolated from an artisanal product and combined with a commercial strain were added as starter cultures during nut soaking to produce a cheese-like fermented plant-based product. Three different LAB consortia were used in challenge tests at laboratory scale against Listeria monocytogenes, Escherichia coli or Salmonella Enteritidis, inoculated in nuts at 5 log CFU/g, and monitored for pathogen survival and matrix acidification. The combination of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum 82 and Leuc. carnosum 4010 resulted in faster acidification (pH value < 4.4 after 18 h instead of 48 h) and the reduction of target pathogens; L. monocytogenes was already absent after seven days from production, and the counts of E. coli or S. Enteritidis were lower with respect to other samples. Thus, this microbial consortium was used for a pilot-scale production in which, beyond safety, the fermented plant-based product was also characterized for aroma profile and phenolic compounds, parameters that are known to be affected by LAB fermentation. The results showed an enhancement of the aroma profile, with an accumulation of molecules able to confer cheese-like notes (i.e., acetoin and diacetyl) and higher phenolic content, as well as the presence of compounds (i.e., phenyllactic acid and hydroxyphenyllactic acid) that could exert antimicrobial activity. This study allowed us to set up a guided fermentation for a cheese-like vegan product, guaranteeing safety and improving aromatic and functional features.
The Situation of Counterfeited and Mislabeled Commercialized Edible Mushrooms in China and the Development of Possible Controls
Authors: Liu Jinlin , Sun Jingyi , He Ruyan , Xia Jing , He Peimin
Published: September 2024

Edible mushroom products, encompassing both cultivated and wild varieties, are highly favored by consumers due to their rich nutritional profiles, including significant levels of proteins and amino acids. These mushrooms have extensive applications across the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries, making the edible mushroom industry a vital component of global poverty alleviation efforts. Taking China as an example, the country produces over 45 million tons of edible mushrooms annually, accounting for 94.01% of the world’s total production, thereby establishing itself as the leading global producer of edible mushrooms. However, alongside the rapid expansion of this industry, concerns have emerged regarding counterfeit products and incidents of poisoning resulting from the consumption of toxic wild mushrooms. As follows, to advance the development and integrity of the mushroom production and processing industry: (1) This study presents the situation of counterfeit edible mushrooms and elucidates the factors contributing to the production of fraudulent products from both subjective and non-subjective perspectives. (2) We provide a detailed introduction to 22 varieties of freshly cultivated edible mushrooms and commonly encountered wild edible mushrooms in the Chinese consumer market, proposing the application of DNA barcoding, environmental DNA analysis, and other technologies for the future authentication of counterfeit mushroom products. (3) Concurrently, we present an overview of mushroom poisoning incidents in China from 2010 to 2023, emphasizing the challenges in mitigating the risks associated with wild mushroom consumption and preventing food poisoning, thereby necessitating heightened consumer caution. (4) Finally, we offer four recommendations aimed at ensuring the healthy, stable, and sustainable growth of the edible mushroom industry.