bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Cancer Chimera: Impact of Vimentin and Cytokeratin Co-Expression in Hybrid Epithelial/Mesenchymal Cancer Cells on Tumor Plasticity and Metastasis
Authors: Kuburich Nick A. , Kiselka Julia M. , den Hollander Petra , Karam Andrew A. , Mani Sendurai A.
Published: December 2024

The epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) program is critical to metastatic cancer progression. EMT results in the expression of mesenchymal proteins and enhances migratory and invasive capabilities. In a small percentage of cells, EMT results in the expression of stemness-associated genes that provide a metastatic advantage. Although EMT had been viewed as a binary event, it has recently become clear that the program leads to a spectrum of phenotypes, including hybrid epithelial/mesenchymal (E/M) cells that have significantly greater metastatic capability than cells on the epithelial or mesenchymal ends of the spectrum. As hybrid E/M cells are rarely observed in physiological, non-diseased states in the adult human body, these cells are potential biomarkers and drug targets. Hybrid E/M cells are distinguished by the co-expression of epithelial and mesenchymal proteins, such as the intermediate filament proteins cytokeratin (CK; epithelial) and vimentin (VIM; mesenchymal). Although these intermediate filaments have been extensively used for pathological characterization and detection of aggressive carcinomas, little is known regarding the interactions between CK and VIM when co-expressed in hybrid E/M cells. This review describes the characteristics of hybrid E/M cells with a focus on the unique co-expression of VIM and CK. We will discuss the structures and functions of these two intermediate filament proteins and how they may interact when co-expressed in hybrid E/M cells. Additionally, we review what is known about cell-surface expression of these intermediate filament proteins and discuss their potential as predictive biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
Correction: Harper et al. Alberta Childhood Cancer Survivorship Research Program. Cancers 2023, 15, 3932
Authors: Harper Andrew , Schulte Fiona , Guilcher Gregory M. T. , Truong Tony H. , Reynolds Kathleen , Spavor Maria , Logie Natalie , Lee Joon , Fidler-Benaoudia Miranda M.
Published: December 2024

Affiliation Correction [...]
Unveiling the Influence of Activation Protocols on Cobalt Catalysts for Sustainable Fuel Synthesis
Authors: Lwazzani M. Amine , García Blanco Andrés A. , Biset-Peiró Martí , Martín Morales Elena , Guilera Jordi
Published: December 2024

The Fischer–Tropsch Synthesis process is projected to have a significant impact in the near future due to its potential for synthesizing sustainable fuels from biomass, carbon dioxide and organic wastes. In this catalytic process, catalyst activation plays a major role in the overall performance of Fischer–Tropsch Synthesis. Catalyst activation temperatures are considerably higher than the typical operating conditions of industrial reactors. Consequently, ex situ activation is often required for industrial Fischer–Tropsch Synthesis processes. This study evaluated the influence of different activation approaches (in situ, ex situ, passivation and low-temperature activation). Catalytic experiments were conducted in a fixed-bed reactor at 230 °C and 20 bar·g using a reference supported Co/γ-Al2O3 catalyst. Experimental results demonstrate that catalysts can be effectively reduced ex situ. This work reveals that re-activation of the catalyst after ex situ reduction is unnecessary, as the reaction conditions themselves re-reduce any superficial oxides formed, owing to the reducing nature of the reactant mixture. This approach could simplify reactor design by enabling temperature requirements to match operating conditions (e.g., 230 °C), thereby reducing both investment and operational costs and eliminating additional catalyst preparation steps.
Inflammatory Response of THP1 and U937 Cells: The RNAseq Approach
Authors: Panahipour Layla , Micucci Chiara , Gruber Reinhard
Published: December 2024

THP1 and U937 are monocytic cell lines that are common bioassays to reflect monocyte and macrophage activities in inflammation research. However, THP-1 is a human monocytic leukemia cell line, and U937 originates from pleural effusion of histiocytic lymphoma; thus, even though they serve as bioassay in inflammation research, their response to agonists is not identical. Consequently, there has yet to be a consensus about the panel of strongly regulated genes in THP1 and U937 cells representing the inflammatory response to LPS and IFNG. Therefore, we have performed an RNAseq of THP1 and U937 exposed to LPS and IFNG to identify the most sensitive genes and the unique properties of each individual cell line. When applying a highly stringent threshold, we could identify 43, 8 up and 94, 103 down-regulated genes in THP1 and U937 cells, respectively. In THP1 cells, among the most strongly up-regulated genes are CCL1, CXCL2, CXCL3, IL1A, IL1B, IL6, and PTGES. In U937 cells, the strongest up-regulated genes include CSF2, CSF3, CXCL2, CXCL5, CXCL6, IL1A, IL19, IL36G, IL6, ITGA1, ITGA2, and PTGS2. Even though THP1 is considerably less responsive than U937, there are genes commonly upregulated by LPS and IFNG, including the CCL1, CCL3, CCL20, CXCL2, CXCL3, CXCL8, as well as IL1A, IL1B, IL23A, IL6, and genes of prostaglandin synthesis PTGES and PTGS2. Downregulated genes are limited to NRGN and CD36. This head-to-head comparison revealed that THP1 is less responsive than U937 cells to LPS and IFNG and identified a panel of highly regulated genes that can be applied in bioassays in inflammation research. Our data further propose bulk RNAseq as a standard method in bioassay research.
Investigation of Long-Term Performance of a Proposed Cost-Effective HCl Non-Dispersive Infrared Analyzer at Real Stationary Sources
Authors: Park Byeong-Gyu , Dinh Trieu-Vuong , Lee Sang-Woo , Choi In-Young , Cho Byung-Chan , Baek Da-Hyun , Kim Jong-Choon , Kim Jo-Chun
Published: December 2024

The zero drift, interference, and sensitivity of an HCl analyzer based on a non-dispersive infrared (NDIR) technique can be improved to develop a cost-effective solution for continuous emission monitoring systems (CEMSs). To achieve these improvements, the same bandpass filter technique, negligible interference bandpass filter, and optimal path length are applied to the analyzer. Laboratory inspections and long-term field trials are conducted to evaluate the performance of the analyzer. A metalworking factory and a cement factory are selected for field trials. In laboratory inspections, the relative error of the analyzer is less than 1%, aligning closely with the results obtained from standard ion chromatography methods. Moreover, the basic specifications of the proposed analyzer are comparable to those of commercial HCl analyzers. In field trials, the NDIR analyzer shows a significant bias compared to the standard method. However, when considering the difference between HCl emission levels and HCl emission standards, the relative errors are less than 10%. These results suggest the proposed NDIR analyzer is a practical option for the CEMS of metalworking and cement factories. However, seasonal variations should be considered when the temperatures of gas emissions are low.
Infantile Spasms in Pediatric Down Syndrome: Potential Mechanisms Driving Therapeutic Considerations
Authors: Stafstrom Carl E. , Shao Li-Rong
Published: December 2024

Infantile spasms are common in Down Syndrome (DS), but the mechanisms by which DS predisposes to this devastating epilepsy syndrome are unclear. In general, neuronal excitability and therefore seizure predisposition results from an imbalance of excitation over inhibition in neurons and neural networks of the brain. Animal models provide clues to mechanisms and thereby provide potential therapeutic approaches. Ts65Dn mice have been the most widely used animal model of DS. In this model, there is evidence for both abnormal cerebral excitation and inhibition: infantile spasms-like clinical and electrographic activity can be elicited by the administration of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-B receptor agonist, gamma-butyrolactone (GBL), and depolarizing GABA-A responses persist beyond the age of their usual switch to hyperpolarized responses. But despite its widespread use, the Ts65Dn model may be suboptimal because of the absence of numerous genes that are triplicated in human DS and the presence of numerous genes that are not triplicated in human DS. Recently, a transchromosomic mouse artificial chromosome 21 (TcMAC21) mouse model has been developed, which carries a copy of human chromosome 21 and therefore has a genetic composition more similar to human DS. As in Ts65Dn mice, exposure of TcMAC21 mice to GBL results in epileptic spasms, and aberrant excitation has also been demonstrated. This review summarizes excitatory and inhibitory dysfunction in models of DS that may play a role in the generation of seizures and infantile spasms, providing a perspective on past studies and a prelude for future ones. Further elucidation will hopefully lead to rational therapeutic options for DS children with infantile spasms.
An Unusual Cause of Inguinal Mass in a Patient with Urolithiasis: A Case Report of Deep (Aggressive) Angiomyxoma in a Male Patient
Authors: Chatzigrigoriadis Christodoulos , Tatanis Vasileios , Spinos Theodoros , Peteinaris Angelis , Samaras Angelos , Thanos Anastasios , Liatsikos Evangelos , Kallidonis Panagiotis
Published: December 2024

Background: Deep or aggressive angiomyxoma is an uncommon neoplasm of the pelvis. Although deep angiomyxoma is a benign tumor, its tendency to infiltrate soft tissues and reach a large size (typically > 10 cm) indicates aggressive biological behavior. It is usually present in female patients, but there have been recent reports of male-aggressive angiomyxoma. While rare, it is an important consideration in patients with a pelvic mass. The clinical presentation is non-specific; patients are either asymptomatic or present with non-specific complaints, such as dull pain, constipation, and dysuria. It is commonly mistaken for an inguinal hernia, hydrocele, testicular cancer, lipoma, and epididymal cyst in male patients, thus misguiding the management of these cases. Hence, preoperative evaluation with imaging studies (ultrasound, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging) and biopsy allows for an accurate diagnosis and treatment. Currently, the standard of treatment is surgical resection of the tumor with free margins. The role of hormone therapy is under investigation for patients with deep angiomyxoma positive for estrogen/progesterone receptors. Regular follow-up is necessary given the high recurrence rate of deep angiomyxoma (9–72%). Methods: We present a case of an elderly man who presented with hematuria due to urolithiasis and an asymptomatic inguinal mass mimicking an inguinal hernia. A computed scan (CT) of the abdomen confirmed the presence of the mass, which was removed surgically. Results: The pathologic examination of the tumor was consistent with deep angiomyxoma. Conclusions: The diagnosis of deep angiomyxoma should always be considered in patients with an inguinal mass to avoid delayed treatment and incomplete surgical excision.
Methodology for a Series of Rapid Reviews on Virtual Care in Rehabilitation, Reviewing Its Advantages and Challenges to Inform Best Practices
Authors: Sigouin Jennifer , Hudon Anne , Veras Mirella , Beaulieu-Bonneau Simon , Cavallo Sabrina , Kairy Dahlia
Published: December 2024

Background/Objective: Over the past two decades, the utilization of virtual care in rehabilitation has witnessed a significant surge; this is owing to the widespread availability of technological tools and the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, discussions surrounding the relevance and benefits of telerehabilitation have gained prominence among practitioners, who continually seek to enhance patient care while maintaining high standards of quality. Associated with these discussions are concerns over being able to provide care in an ethical way, as well as addressing equity issues that might be hindered or improved via telerehabilitation. To address the ethical and equity concerns around telerehabilitation, a series of five parallel rapid reviews of the scientific literature were conducted, focusing on different rehabilitation fields: physiotherapy and occupational therapy (1); speech therapy and audiology (2); psychology and neuropsychology (3); and in two age groups: older adults (4); and pediatrics and young adults (5). The objective of this series of rapid reviews is to evaluate the evidence presented regarding telerehabilitation; identifying and recommending best practices especially in the realm of ethics and equity. Methods: Medline; CINAHL; and EMBASE were searched between 2010 and 2023 for English or French-language reviews (2010–2020) and individual studies (2020–2023) pertaining to telerehabilitation and these fields of interest. Data were extracted following a standardized form focusing on: outcomes; findings; quality assessment/biases; limitations; and discussion of ethical and equity concerns. Results: The results are presented according to the most relevant themes, which include: findings; strengths; limitations; and ethical/equity considerations. Conclusions: This research presents a methodology rarely published before, on how to conduct multiple parallel rapid reviews on the theme of telerehabilitation, based on different rehabilitation fields and age groups. This research will shape future guidelines and standards in applying ethical and equity standards in telerehabilitation.
Magnetic and Electronic Inhomogeneity in Sm1−xEuxB6
Authors: Ale Crivillero M. Victoria , Rosa Priscila F. S. , Fisk Zachary , Müller Jens , Schlottmann Pedro , Wirth Steffen
Published: December 2024

While SmB6 attracts attention as a possible topological Kondo insulator, EuB6 is known to host magnetic polarons that give rise to large magnetoresistive effects above its ferromagnetic order transition. Here, we investigate single crystals of Sm1−xEuxB6 by magnetic and magnetotransport measurements to explore a possible interplay of these two intriguing phenomena, with a focus on the Eu-rich substitutions. Sm0.01Eu0.99B6 exhibits generally similar behavior as EuB6. Interestingly, Sm0.05Eu0.95B6 combines a global antiferromagnetic order with local polaron formation. A pronounced hysteresis is found in the magnetoresistance of Sm0.1Eu0.9B6 at low temperature (T= 1.9 K) and applied magnetic fields between 2.3 and 3.6 T. The latter is in agreement with a phenomenological model that predicts the stabilization of ferromagnetic polarons with an increasing magnetic field within materials with a global antiferromagnetic order.
Novel Y2(SO4)3:Eu3+ Phosphors with Anti-Thermal Quenching of Luminescence Due to Giant Negative Thermal Expansion
Authors: Shablinskii Andrey P. , Shorets Olga Yu. , Povotskiy Alexey V. , Bubnova Rimma S. , Krzhizhanovskaya Maria G. , Janson Svetlana Yu. , Ugolkov Valeri L. , Filatov Stanislav K.
Published: December 2024

One of the most critical problems for phosphors used in light-emitting diodes (LEDs) is the thermal quenching of luminescence. Herein, novel (Y1−xEux)2(SO4)3 (x = 0, 0.17, 0.33, 0.5, 0.66) phosphors with anti-thermal quenching of luminescence due to giant negative thermal expansion were obtained by crystallization from aqueous solutions. The Y2(SO4)3 crystal structure is described as a framework, which consists of corner-sharing SO4 tetrahedra and YO6 octahedra. Thermal expansion of x = 0, 0.17, 0.5 solid solutions was investigated by high-temperature powder X-ray diffraction. The crystal structure of the x = 0.5 solid solution was refined by the Rietveld refinement using X-ray powder diffraction data at 400 and 500 °C to RB = 1.7 and 1.9%, respectively. The rotation of the SO4 tetrahedra results in giant negative volumetric thermal expansion: the structure contracts in all directions (αa = −7(3), αb = −15(3), αc = −22(2), αV = −44(2) · 10−6 °C−1 at 500 °C for YEu(SO4)3). The photoluminescence intensity is enhanced 1.8 times with the temperature increasing up to 500 °C. The anti-thermal quenching of Eu3+ luminescence can be described in terms of thermal-enhanced energy transfer between Eu3+ ions due to the negative thermal expansion of the Y2(SO4)3 matrix in all non-equivalent directions.
Conservation Strategies for Xishuangbanna: Assessing Habitat Quality Using the InVEST Model and Human–Elephant Conflict Risk with Geographic Information System
Authors: Tang Haixia , Li Li , Pang Chunping , Slate Timothy James , Giraudoux Patrick , Afonso Eve , Guo Hongyan , Wu Gongsheng , Zhang Li
Published: December 2024

Xishuangbanna, located in southern Yunnan, China, is a vital tropical rainforest reserve supporting rich biodiversity, including the endangered Asian elephant (Elephas maximus). Increasing human activities, such as urbanization and agricultural expansion, have degraded habitats and intensified human–elephant conflicts, adding to the challenges of conservation. This study integrates habitat quality assessment and conflict risk analysis using the InVEST model across 2128 villages, considering land use and habitat threats like cropland and roads. The model reveals significant overlap between high-conflict zones and low-quality habitats near key reserves, underscoring the need for targeted conservation strategies. We propose establishing Ecological Source Areas (ESAs) to protect high-quality habitats and Ecological Restoration Zones (ERZs) to improve ecological conditions in low-quality, high-conflict zones. ESAs are essential for providing continuous ecosystem services and ensuring ecological security, while ERZs focus resources on areas with high conflict risk that urgently need restoration. Additionally, we recommend creating ecological corridors to connect fragmented habitats, enhance connectivity, support herd interactions, and reduce conflicts by expanding elephants’ safe roaming range. This integrated framework emphasizes habitat protection, ecological restoration, and conflict mitigation while accounting for human dynamics to support sustainable conservation. Reducing overlap between human and elephant activities remains a key objective. Future research should refine these models with more detailed data and extend their application to other regions, focusing on adaptive management and monitoring to address evolving ecological and human dynamics.
Continuous Glucose Monitoring—New Diagnostic Tool in Complex Pathophysiological Disorder of Glucose Metabolism in Children and Adolescents with Obesity
Authors: Simunovic Marko , Kumric Marko , Rusic Doris , Paradzik Simunovic Martina , Bozic Josko
Published: December 2024

Obesity is one of the leading causes of chronic diseases, and its prevalence is still rising in children and adolescent populations. Chronic cardiovascular complications result in metabolic syndrome (MS) and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Key factors in the development of MS are insulin resistance and low-grade inflammation. The disorder of glucose and insulin metabolism has not been fully elucidated so far, and an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) has been the only tool used to look into the complex metabolism disorder in children and adolescents with obesity. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) has become commercially available for over two decades and is primarily used to manage type 1 diabetes mellitus in pediatric populations. This review aims to present the current knowledge about the use of CGM in children and adolescent populations with obesity. CGM systems have the potential to serve as valuable tools in everyday clinical practices, not only in the better diagnosis of chronic complications associated with obesity, but CGM can also assist in interventions to make better adjustments to nutritional and therapeutic approaches based on real-time glucose monitoring data. Despite these promising benefits, further research is needed to fully understand the role of CGM in metabolic disorders in pediatric populations with obesity, which will additionally strengthen the importance of CGM systems in everyday clinical practices.
Can Clinical, Psychophysical or Psychological Variables Help in Discriminating Women with Migraines from a Tertiary Center? A Diagnostic Accuracy Study
Authors: Cigarán-Mendez Margarita , Pacho-Hernández Juan C. , Fernández-Palacios Francisco G. , Tejera-Alonso Ángela , Valera-Calero Juan A. , Gómez-Calero Cristina , Ordás-Bandera Carlos , Fernández-de-las-Peñas César
Published: December 2024

Background: Migraine diagnosis is mainly clinically based on symptomatology. The objectives of this study were (1) to determine the ability of pain thresholds to differentiate between women with and without migraines and (2) to determine the ability of clinical, psychological and psychophysical variables to differentiate between women with episodic and chronic migraines. A diagnostic accuracy study was conducted. Methods: Pressure-pain thresholds (PPTs) at one trigeminal (temporalis muscle) and one extra-trigeminal (cervical spine) and two distant-pain free (second metacarpal and tibialis anterior muscle) areas, as well as dynamic pain thresholds (DPTs), were bilaterally assessed in 100 women with migraines, recruited from tertiary hospitals (50% episodic, 50% chronic), and 50 comparable women without headaches. Migraine pain features (headache diary), migraine-associated burden (HDI), anxiety and depressive levels (HADS) and state (STAI-S)–trait (STAI-T) anxiety were also evaluated. The area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, with optimal cut-off points, as well as the sensitivity, specificity and positive/negative likelihood ratios (LR) for each variable, were calculated. The women with migraines showed lower PPTs and DPTs than those without migraines. Results: The women with chronic migraines showed lower PPTs in the temporalis muscle than the women with episodic migraines. No clinical, psychological or psychophysical variables exhibited acceptable ROC values (≥0.7) for differentiating between women with and without migraines or between women with episodic and chronic migraines. Conclusions: Although the women with migraines had widespread pressure-pain hyperalgesia, neither the clinical, psychological nor psychophysical (pain threshold) variable exhibited the proper diagnostic accuracy to distinguish between women with and without migraines or between women with episodic and chronic migraines. New studies should clarify the clinical relevance of the findings of the current study.
Oxidative Stress in Aortic Valves Associated with Infective Endocarditis: A Report on Three Cases
Authors: Soto María Elena , Manzano-Pech Linaloe , Guarner-Lans Verónica , Rodríguez-Zanella Hugo , Pérez-Torres Israel , Soria-Castro Elizabeth
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Infective endocarditis (IE) most commonly results from infections by Gram-positive bacteria, and, in this condition, the redox homeostasis is lost due to the overproduction of H2O2, leading to the overstimulation of the immune system and the upregulation of the production of proinflammatory cytokines. The aim of this study was to evaluate the levels of oxidative biomarkers and the enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant systems in subjects with IE. Methods: The study included three cases with IE that had undergone aortic valve replacement (AVR) surgery that was complicated by IE, comparing them with subjects with AVR without IE. We determined the malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), carbonyl group concentration, glutathione (GSH), thiols and the nitrate/nitrite ratio (NO3−/NO2−) in homogenized tissue from the cardiac valves. We also measured the activity of glutathione-S-transferase (GST), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GR) and thioredoxin reductase (TrxR). The superoxide dismutase (SOD) isoforms and peroxidase activity were determined using native gels. Results: There were increases in the activity of antioxidant enzymes such as GST, SOD isoforms and peroxidases (p ≤ 0.01) and decreases in oxidative stress markers such as GSH (p = 0.05); meanwhile, MDA and carbonylation were increased (p ≤ 0.05). Conclusions: The results suggest that bacterial infections favor oxidative stress in the aortic valves, which increases the SOD isoforms and peroxidase activity. This contributes to the loss of the intricate redox homeostasis system in patients with IE, causing a positive feedback loop in the oxidative background that results in damage to the heart, likely leading to a fatal outcome.
The Impact of Persevering Home Full-Body In-Bed Gym Exercise on Body Muscles in Aging: A Case Report by Quantitative Radio-Densitometric Study Using 3D and 2D Color CT
Authors: Forni Riccardo , Gargiulo Paolo , Boretti Gabriele , Quadrelli Marco , Baccaglini Tommaso , Morra Aldo , Ravara Barbara , Zampieri Sandra , Pond Amber , Carraro Ugo , Maccarone Maria Chiara , Masiero Stefano
Published: December 2024

Background and Clinical Significance: Sarcopenia, characterized by muscle loss and fat infiltration, poses a significant health burden for aging populations. Quantitative Color 2D and 3D radiodensitometry provides a powerful tool to monitor muscle quality and quantity through CT imaging. This study assessed the impact of a ten-year-long home-bed gym exercise intervention on muscle quality in an elderly subject using CT-derived radiodensitometric analysis. The study involved two comparative analyses: Study A, which compared knee-to-ankle CT scans of the subject between 2013 and 2023; and Study B, which compared the subject’s 2023 thigh CT scan with a cohort of 2500 elderly Icelandic individuals from the AGES-Reykjavik study. Case Presentation: A 70-year-old male began a home-based Full-Body In-Bed Gym exercise program in 2013. Quantitative muscle volume and radiodensity measurements were performed using CT at baseline and after ten years. Results: Study A shows significant improvements in muscle volume observed in the knee-to-ankle region, while a slower decline in radiodensity was noted, indicating substantial preservation of muscle quality despite the expected decay of ten-year aging. For instance, muscle volume increased by 15% in the left Soleus muscle and by 6% in the right Soleus muscle, while the average radiodensity decreased by 12–17 HU. The subject’s thigh muscle quality at 80-years-old is above the AGES-Reykjavik’s cohort average, with reduced fat infiltration. Conclusions: Long-term home Full-Body In-Bed Gym, a low-impact exercise, can mitigate aging sarcopenia, as evidenced by improved tissue radiodensity and muscle mass substantial preservation. This suggests potential applications in personalized healthcare strategies to enhance muscle preservation among aging populations.
Whole Exome Sequencing Facilitates Early Diagnosis of Lesch–Nyhan Syndrome: A Case Series
Authors: Fang Hung-Hsiang , Lee Chung-Lin , Chen Hui-Ju , Chuang Chih-Kuang , Chiu Huei-Ching , Chang Ya-Hui , Tu Yuan-Rong , Lo Yun-Ting , Lin Hsiang-Yu , Lin Shuan-Pei
Published: December 2024

Background: Lesch–Nyhan syndrome (LNS) is a rare X-linked recessive metabolic disorder caused by mutations in the HPRT1 gene, resulting in hypoxanthine–guanine phosphoribosyltransferase (HPRT) deficiency. Early diagnosis is critical for optimizing management and improving outcomes. This study presents a case series of three Taiwanese patients diagnosed at a single medical center. Methods: Exome sequencing and biochemical testing were used to confirm the diagnoses. Early clinical manifestations, including hyperuricemia, hypotonia, and developmental delay, were documented during the initial stages of the disease. Results: All three patients had hyperuricemia, hypotonia, spasticity, and motor developmental delay. Pathogenic variants in the HPRT1 gene were identified in two patients, while the third was confirmed by biochemical testing. Two patients had orange-colored crystalline deposits in their diapers, indicative of hyperuricosuria. Self-injurious behavior had not yet developed in two patients due to their young age. Conclusions: Early clinical features such as hyperuricemia, hypotonia, and motor delay may suggest LNS in infancy. Molecular genetic testing, particularly whole exome sequencing, can facilitate an early diagnosis before specific manifestations occur, enabling timely interventions and improving patient outcomes.
DNA-Based Technology for Herpesvirus Detection
Authors: Maini Gloria , Cianci Giorgia , Ferraresi Matteo , Gentili Valentina , Bortolotti Daria
Published: December 2024

The detection of viral DNA is considered crucial in both diagnosis and prognosis. Nowadays, molecular diagnostic approaches represent the most promising tools for the clinical detection of viral infections. This review aims to investigate the most used and promising DNA-based technologies for viral detection, focusing on herpesviruses because of their ability to undergo latent and reactivation cycles, persisting lifelong in the host in association with several diseases. Molecular technologies, such as PCR-based assays, enhance sensitivity and specificity in identifying viral DNA from clinical samples such as blood, cerebrospinal fluid and saliva, indicating PCR and its derivatives as the gold standard methods for herpesvirus detection. In conclusion, this review underscores the need for continuous innovation in diagnostic methodologies to address the complexities of herpesvirus identification in different clinical samples.
Enhancing Automated Maneuvering Decisions in UCAV Air Combat Games Using Homotopy-Based Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Zhu Yiwen , Zheng Yuan , Wei Wenya , Fang Zhou
Published: December 2024

In the field of real-time autonomous decision-making for Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicles (UCAVs), reinforcement learning is widely used to enhance their decision-making capabilities in high-dimensional spaces. These enhanced capabilities allow UCAVs to better respond to the maneuvers of various opponents, with the win rate often serving as the primary optimization metric. However, relying solely on the terminal outcome of victory or defeat as the optimization target, but without incorporating additional rewards throughout the process, poses significant challenges for reinforcement learning due to the sparse reward structure inherent in these scenarios. While algorithms enhanced with densely distributed artificial rewards show potential, they risk deviating from the primary objectives. To address these challenges, we introduce a novel approach: the homotopy-based soft actor–critic (HSAC) method. This technique gradually transitions from auxiliary tasks enriched with artificial rewards to the main task characterized by sparse rewards through homotopic paths. We demonstrate the consistent convergence of the HSAC method and its effectiveness through deployment in two distinct scenarios within a 3D air combat game simulation: attacking horizontally flying UCAVs and a combat scenario involving two UCAVs. Our experimental results reveal that HSAC significantly outperforms traditional algorithms, which rely solely on using sparse rewards or those supplemented with artificially aided rewards.
Influence of Self-Efficacy, Anxiety and Psychological Well-Being on Academic Engagement During University Education
Authors: Lizarte Simón Emilio Jesús , Gijón Puerta José , Galván Malagón María Carmen , Khaled Gijón Meriem
Published: December 2024

For many students, the start of a university course is a positive experience, as it is a challenge that involves academic commitment and the achievement of a university degree. However, for other students, access to university becomes a stressful experience that manifests itself in signs of anxiety. Previous studies have shown the influence of high levels of anxiety on the degree of academic engagement for good study performance, with positive or negative moderators such as psychological well-being or self-efficacy. The overall aim of this study is to analyse self-efficacy and psychological well-being as moderators between anxiety and academic engagement, as well as the relationships between the variables. In the present study, 751 first-year students of the Faculty of Education Sciences of the University of Granada (Spain), of whom 90.7% are women and 9.3% are men, all aged between 18 and 47 years old (M = 21.05, SD = 3.57), completed the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale-Student questionnaires (UWES-S), Maslach Burnout Inventory-Student Survey (MBI-SS), State–Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) and Psychological Well-being Scale. The correlations between scales were studied using Pearson’s correlation coefficient. To assess the moderating effect of self-efficacy and psychological well-being on the relationship between anxiety and academic engagement, structural equations were used with the maximum likelihood method. In relation to the analysis carried out, the findings show the importance of self-efficacy and psychological well-being as moderators between anxiety and academic engagement. Self-efficacy showed a moderating effect on the relationship between anxiety and academic engagement, so the interaction between anxiety and self-efficacy meant that in situations of high anxiety and high efficacy, academic engagement was virtually unaffected.
Investigating the Relationship Between Mathematics Instructional Time and Perseverance Growth with Elementary Pre-Service Teachers
Authors: DiNapoli Joseph
Published: December 2024

This study investigated how the time that elementary pre-service teachers (PSTs) spend studying certain mathematics topics during a content course is related to growth in their perseverance in problem-solving. Using a quasi-experimental design, PSTs from two classes taught by the same instructor engaged in 12 problem-solving sessions each to measure their willingness to initiate and sustain, and re-initiate and re-sustain upon an impasse, productive struggle during engagement. Inspired by the thinking-oriented and knowledge-oriented theoretical approaches to teacher preparation in elementary mathematics, there were two class conditions. Over one semester, the treatment group studied five mathematics topics (averaging about 400 min of classroom time per topic) and the control group studied 10 mathematics topics (averaging about 150 min of classroom time per topic). The results show that the perseverance of PSTs in problem-solving in the treatment group grew at a significantly greater rate compared to PSTs in the control group. This suggests that PSTs’ perseverance development may be supported by spending more classroom time studying fewer topics during mathematics content courses.
Multi-Target Adaptive Focusing Algorithm Based on Image Phase Difference
Authors: Pan Ninghui , Yu Feihong
Published: December 2024

In the field of image detection, when focusing on multiple targets of interest with different depths, in addition to optimizing the focusing speed of a single target, a comprehensive consideration of the interrelationships among multiple targets can further enhance the overall focusing efficiency. In this context, this paper presents a multi-target adaptive focusing algorithm based on image phase difference. The algorithm improves the accuracy of phase difference calculation through multi-scale image matching and adaptively adjusts the defocus estimation model based on the phase difference. Additionally, the algorithm orders multiple target regions by defocus estimation to reduce the overall focus time and combines the defocus estimate with image clarity to achieve precise focus on each region. The experimental results show that the method not only effectively improves the accuracy of defocus estimation and does not need to rely on lens calibration, but also significantly improves the speed and efficiency of multi-target focusing compared with traditional focusing algorithms.
Automatic Segmentation in 3D CT Images: A Comparative Study of Deep Learning Architectures for the Automatic Segmentation of the Abdominal Aorta
Authors: Mavridis Christos , Vagenas Theodoros P. , Economopoulos Theodore L. , Vezakis Ioannis , Petropoulou Ourania , Kakkos Ioannis , Matsopoulos George K.
Published: December 2024

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a complex vascular condition associated with high mortality rates. Accurate abdominal aorta segmentation is essential in medical imaging, facilitating diagnosis and treatment for a range of cardiovascular diseases. In this regard, deep learning-based automated segmentation has shown significant promise in the precise delineation of the aorta. However, comparisons across different models remain limited, with most studies performing algorithmic training and testing on the same dataset. Furthermore, due to the variability in AAA presentation, using healthy controls for deep learning AAA segmentation poses a significant challenge. This study provides a detailed comparative analysis of four deep learning architectures—UNet, SegResNet, UNet Transformers (UNETR), and Shifted-Windows UNet Transformers (SwinUNETR)—for full abdominal aorta segmentation. The models were evaluated both qualitatively and quantitatively using private and public 3D (Computed Tomography) CT datasets. Moreover, they were successful in attaining high performance in delineating AAA aorta, while being trained on healthy aortic imaging data. Our findings indicate that the UNet architecture achieved the highest segmentation accuracy among the models tested.
Energy-Efficient Reconfigurable Acceleration Engine for Polynomial Coefficient Generation of Lattice-Based Post-Quantum Cryptography
Authors: Bie Mengni , Li Wei , Fu Qiuxing , Chen Tao , Du Yiran , Nan Longmei
Published: December 2024

Aiming at the problem of energy-efficient design of polynomial coefficient generation algorithms and reconfigurable units in lattice-based post-quantum cryptography, this paper investigates and implements an efficient coefficient generation acceleration engine for multiple algorithms. In this paper, we investigate discrete Gaussian sampling-based and hash function-based coefficient generation schemes separately. For the schemes based on discrete Gaussian sampling, we propose a reconfigurable discrete Gaussian sampling algorithm utilizing a fusion tree structure, which offers greater flexibility in the random number compression through data extraction, and separates the initial sampling from the correction process, thereby achieving high energy efficiency in a parallel architecture. For those based on hash functions, we propose an energy-efficient parallel algorithm for the generation of reconfigurable coefficients, which could be adapted to a variety of uniform, reject, binomial, and ternary sampling schemes. This algorithm makes effective use of the common arithmetic process for all types of sampling schemes and introduces a data allocation process to improve the efficiency of smaller parameter operations, which provides the basis for an energy-efficient design of the hardware architecture. Building upon these two algorithms, we propose a reconfigurable lattice-based post-quantum cryptographic coefficient generation acceleration engine by investigating the algorithm’s core arithmetic parallelism with the goal of resource efficiency. Experimental results showed that under the 40 nm CMOS process, it takes only 256.2 ns on average to complete the uniform-reject sampling with 256 points rejection value less than 216, and 214.2 ns on average to complete the binomial sampling with 256 points rejection value less than 8 bits. The maximum operating frequency reached 714 MHz, with an average power consumption of approximately 57.37 mW. Compared to existing studies, the proposed sampler reduced power consumption by about 13% for binomial sampling and about 21% for discrete Gaussian sampling.
Power Flow Modeling for Battery Energy Storage Systems with Hierarchical Control for Islanded Microgrids
Authors: Agundis Tinajero Gibran David , Guerrero Josep M.
Published: December 2024

This paper presents a novel power flow problem formulation for hierarchically controlled battery energy storage systems in islanded microgrids. The formulation considers droop-based primary control, and proportional–integral secondary control for frequency and voltage restoration. Several case studies are presented where different operation conditions are selected to highlight the battery formulation reliability and its necessity for detailed power flow analysis. Furthermore, the case studies consider wind-based generation units with power curves, probability-based wind distributions, and load profiles. The results obtained show the proposed formulation features for emulating a hierarchically controlled battery in an islanded system with practical operating conditions; moreover, it is shown that including controllers into the power flow formulation is necessary for obtaining more reliable steady-state solutions for islanded microgrid systems.
A Hysteresis Current Controller for the Interleaving Operation of the Paralleled Buck Converters Without Interconnecting Lines
Authors: Wang Ruwen , Chen Yu , Huang Jiashu , Wu Yitong , Kang Yong
Published: December 2024

Paralleled buck converters have garnered significant attention for fulfilling the increasing demands of power supplies in modern applications. They have the advantages of increased current capacity and reduced current ripple. Under this architecture, applying distributed control brings the benefits of reliability and scalability. However, the interconnecting lines between the converters are required for achieving the interleaving operation, which reduces the reliability and scalability. To eliminate the interconnecting lines, this paper proposed a hysteresis current controller to achieve the symmetric interleaving operation. First, the parallel structure with a common output filter was proposed to provide the hardware basis for the proposed control method. Then, the hysteresis current controller was constructed based on the inductor voltage of each buck module to achieve the interleaving operation. The experiment of the three-module-paralleled buck converter was conducted. The experimental results show that the symmetric interleaving was achieved with a maximum phase shift error of 4.1%; the output of the parallel system can recover within 2.60 ms after the load transitions from 50% to 100%; and the parallel system can recover within 1.96 ms after one module removal. The simulation results of the six-module-paralleled buck converter show that the parallel system can recover within 1.00 ms after one module addition, which illustrates the scalability of the proposed method.
Fault Diagnosis for Rotating Machinery Based on Dimensionless Indices: Current Status, Development, Technologies, and Future Directions
Authors: Zhang Qinghua , Su Naiquan , Qin Binbin , Sun Guoxi , Jing Xiaoyuan , Hu Shaolin , Cai Yebin , Zhou Lingmeng
Published: December 2024

Operational safety and reliability have become increasingly paramount in large and complex rotating machinery in industrial manufacturing. Recent strides in data-driven fault diagnosis have significantly advanced the fields of machinery health assessment, fault identification, and prediction. This review delves into the existing literature on fault diagnosis technology for rotating machinery, categorizing the various diagnostic approaches. It further examines the evolution of fault diagnosis technology based on dimensionless indices and elucidates the five latest progressions of foundational theories: the design and optimization of dimensionless indices, extraction and features of mutual dimensionless indices, fault diagnosis technology based on dimensionless indices and artificial immune system, fusion technology of dimensionless indices in time and frequency domains, and datasets. The applications of fault diagnosis technology based on dimensionless indices in the petrochemical industry, high-speed railway, shipping and aerospace are discussed. Future directions for research are outlined across six key areas: more excellent dimensionless indices, rapid and efficient detectors, fault analysis for small-sample fault events, theoretical systems of time–frequency domain fusion diagnosis, fault diagnosis with standardized test database, and expert knowledge base. This comprehensive review bridges the research gap by systematically examining the roles and applications of dimensionless indices in the fault diagnosis of rotating machinery.
A Novel SiC Vertical Planar MOSFET Design and Optimization for Improved Switching Performance
Authors: Jin Rui , Li Zheyang , Liu Shijie , Sang Ling , Chen Xiran , Linewih Handoko , Zhong Yu , He Feng , He Yawei , Han Jisheng
Published: December 2024

A novel cell topology for a vertical 1200 V SiC planar double-implanted MOSFET (DMOSFET) is proposed in this work. Based on the conventional linear cell topology and the calibrated two-dimensional (2D) technology computer-aided design (TCAD) model parameters, a novel cell topology with the insertion of P+ body implanted regions over a fractional part of the channel and junction field effect transistor (JFET) regions was designed and optimized to achieve a low high-frequency figure of merit (HF-FOM, Ron × Cgd). Utilizing three-dimensional (3D) TCAD simulations, the new proposed cell topology with optimized selected structure parameters exhibits an HF-FOM of 328.748 mΩ·pF, which is 10.02% lower than the conventional linear topology. It also shows an improvement in the switching performance, with an 11.73% reduction in switching loss. Moreover, the impact of source ohmic contact resistivity on the performance of the proposed cell topology was highlighted, indicating the dependency of the source ohmic contact resistivity on the switching performance. This research provides a new perspective for enhancing the switching performance of SiC MOSFETs in high-frequency applications, considering practical factors such as contact resistivity.
Effect of Adding Halloysite to Different Solid Biomass Fuels on Combustion Process in a Small-Scale Domestic Retort Boiler
Authors: Chabiński Michał , Szlęk Andrzej
Published: December 2024

Biomass combustion in small-scale boilers in Eastern Europe has recently become a very popular heating option. Biomass boilers are gradually replacing old, coal-fired installations, especially in the domestic sector. In comparison with coal, biomass contains more phosphorus, chlorine, and potassium, which may cause the corrosion, slagging, and fouling of heating surfaces inside the combustion chamber. Such problems may be reduced by properly controlling the combustion process, as well as adding substances like halloysite to the fuel. This paper presents the results of adding halloysite to wood pellets made of coniferous wood, rape straw, and wood/rape blend in the combustion process of a 25 kW retort boiler. The results demonstrate that adding halloysite to biomass increases the ash sintering temperature, which may, in turn, reduce slagging. The addition of halloysite also reduces the KCl concentration in the ash and the total solid compounds, potentially lowering the risk of corrosion in the boiler. A slight reduction in CO, OGC, and SO2 concentrations was observed for rape straw biomass pellets with the halloysite addition. Moreover, the experimental results indicate that the addition of halloysite to fuel may influence boiler efficiency, especially during the combustion process of agricultural biomass and its blends.