bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Window Green View Index on Stress Recovery of College Students from Psychological and Physiological Aspects
Authors: Jing Xiaotong , Liu Chao , Li Jiaxin , Gao Weijun , Fukuda Hiroatsu
Published: October 2024

Students often experience high levels of daily academic pressure, spending extended periods within indoor classroom environments. Windows, as a medium of proximity to nature, play an important role in relieving stress. However, the broader implications of the Window Green View Index (WGVI) on individual well-being remain underexplored. This study aims to assess the effects of WGVI on stress recovery in college students by utilizing virtual reality technology to create five classroom environments with varying WGVI levels: 0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%. Twenty-four participants were subjected to the Trier Social Stress Test before engaging with the different WGVI scenarios for stress recovery. Both subjective assessments and objective physiological indicators were evaluated. Results indicated that participants exhibited the lowest Profile of Mood States (POMS) score (−4.50) and significantly improved systolic blood pressure recovery at a 25% WGVI level. The examination of EEG data revealed that the O2 channel in the occipital region exhibited the highest level of activity in the alpha frequency range during the experiment. Additionally, a significant association was observed between the EEG measurements and the subjective rating of stress. This study underscores the significance of incorporating WGVI into the design and planning of college buildings to promote mental health and well-being among students.
Adoption of Lean Construction and AI/IoT Technologies in Iran’s Public Construction Sector: A Mixed-Methods Approach Using Fuzzy Logic
Authors: Ugural Mehmet Nurettin , Aghili Seyedarash , Burgan Halil Ibrahim
Published: October 2024

The construction sector in Iran faces substantial inefficiencies, including high material wastage, posing environmental and economic risks. This study investigated the adoption of Lean Construction (LC) practices and AI/IoT technologies in Iran’s public construction sector using a mixed-methods approach. This research examined the organizational, technical, and infrastructural factors across four key provinces—Tehran, Isfahan, Khorasan Razavi, and Fars—and employed fuzzy logic to address the uncertainties in adoption decisions. Data from 28 key stakeholder interviews were analyzed using Python 3.9, with libraries such as Pandas 1.3.3, NumPy 1.21.2, and skfuzzy 0.4.2 for the statistical analysis and NVivo 12 for the thematic coding. The analysis revealed that organizational readiness and leadership support were the critical drivers of adoption, particularly in Isfahan and Khorasan Razavi, which exhibited the highest adoption likelihood scores (0.5000). Tehran and Fars showed slightly lower scores due to regulatory barriers and financial limitations. The findings highlight the need for targeted leadership training, regulatory reforms, and infrastructure investments to accelerate the adoption of these technologies. This study aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure and SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities) by offering practical recommendations for advancing sustainable practices in Iran’s construction sector. The insights provided have broader implications for other developing economies facing similar challenges, contributing to global efforts toward sustainable development.
Experimental Study on the Flexural Performance of the Corrosion-Affected Simply Supported Prestressed Concrete Box Girder in a High-Speed Railway
Authors: Li Hai , Qiu Yuanguang , Pan Zhicheng , Yang Yiming , Tang Huang , Ma Fanjun
Published: October 2024

Prestressed concrete box girders are commonly employed in the development of high-speed railway bridge constructions. The prestressed strands in the girder may corrode due to long-term chloride erosion, leading to the degradation of its flexural performance. To examine the flexural performance of corrosion-affected simply supported prestressed concrete box girders, eight T-shaped mock-up beams related to the girders used in the construction of high-speed railway bridges were manufactured utilizing similarity theory. Seven of the beams underwent electrochemical accelerated corrosion, and then each beam was subjected to failure under the four-point load test method. Measurements recorded and analyzed in detail during the loading process included the following: crack propagation, crack width at various loads, crack load, ultimate load, deflection, and concrete strain of the mid-span section. The results demonstrate that a corrosion rate of just 8.31% has a considerable impact on the structural integrity of the beams, as evidenced by a pronounced reduction in flexural cracks and a tendency towards reduced reinforcement failure. Furthermore, the corrosive process has a detrimental effect on mid-span deflection, ductility, and ultimate flexural bearing capacity, which could have significant implications for bridge safety. This study provides valuable insights for the assessment of flexural performance and the development of appropriate maintenance strategies for corroded simply supported box girders in high-speed railways.
Optimal Determining Air Supply Humidity for Multi-Location Demands Under Different Objectives in an Indoor Moisture Environment: A Comprehensive Method and Case Study
Authors: Ma Xiaojun , Yu Shuchen , Shao Xiaoliang , Chen Jiujiu
Published: October 2024

Within high-precision indoor environments, such as semiconductor fabrication or textile plants, humidity control is paramount for preserving product integrity and reducing energy expenditure. The non-uniform indoor air environment poses a significant challenge in achieving humidity regulation that meets the distinct requirements of various locations. Traditional feedback control mechanisms may lead to instability, overshooting, and oscillation in indoor parameters. This paper proposes a comprehensive method to address humidity assurance issues in high-precision indoor environments by establishing analytical expressions that link the demand parameters at different locations with air supply parameters. Using a case study, this paper examines several typical operational scenarios with diverse control objectives, including minimizing dehumidification energy consumption, minimizing air supply humidity adjustment values, and constraints on adjustable air supply inlets. This method enables rapid calculation of air supply humidity and regulation of humidity parameters at multiple locations within the indoor environment. It considers various locations, requirements, optimization targets, and precision, demonstrating that it can quickly determine the optimal air supply parameters based on the objective function. This method facilitates rapid adjustment and high-precision assurance of different humidity requirements at multiple locations, making it suitable for high-precision design and control of indoor humidity environments.
Performance of Monotonic Pile Penetration in Sand: Model Test and DEM Simulation
Authors: Feng Jianxue , Luo Ruiqi , Dong Xiaoyu , Zhang Xiaoyong , Shen Quan
Published: October 2024

By integrating laboratory tests and three-dimensional discrete element methods, this research extensively explores the macroscopic and microscopic mechanisms of static pile penetration in standard sand. Initially, the mesoscopic parameters of standard sand were established via flexible triaxial compression tests, and a three-dimensional discrete element model was created using the particle size magnification technique. The study results confirm the rationality of parameter selection and numerical modeling by comparing penetration resistance and displacement obtained from laboratory model tests and discrete element simulations. Initially, penetration resistance swiftly increases, then stabilizes progressively with increasing depth. The lateral friction resistance grows with penetration depth, especially peaking near the cone tip. Moreover, horizontal stress quickly rises during pile penetration, mainly caused by the pile foundation compressing the adjacent soil particles. Displacement of the foundation particles is primarily focused around the pile side and cone tip, affecting an area roughly twice the pile diameter. Soil particle displacement exhibits a pronounced vertical downward movement, primarily driven by lateral friction. The distribution of force chains among foundation particles indicates that the primary stressed areas are at the pile ends, highlighting stress concentration features. This research offers significant insights into the mechanical behaviors and soil responses during pile foundation penetration.
Contribution of Torsional Vibration Modes and the Influence on Period Ratios in the Seismic Response of Elastic Plate Bent Frame Structures
Authors: Li Yulong , Zhao Pengfei , Xue Wen , Zhang Qiang , Ye Changjie , Ma Ming
Published: October 2024

The structural characteristics of large-span structures inherently differ from those of conventional multistorey structures, making it challenging to accurately describe the contribution of various vibration modes to the overall response using traditional dynamic response analysis methods. Based on the response spectrum method, this paper investigates the influence of the first torsional mode on the overall effects of large-span structures. It proposes a new metric, called the torsional mode contribution factor, to characterize the contribution of torsional modes. Focusing primarily on single-span frames, the study explores the impact of factors such as eccentricity ratio, aspect ratio, and roof stiffness on the torsional mode contribution factor. Additionally, the relationship between the period ratio and the torsional mode contribution factor is examined to assess the necessity of controlling the period ratio. The findings reveal that the contribution of torsional modes to the overall seismic response varies significantly under different conditions, such as eccentricity ratio, aspect ratio, roof stiffness, and torsional stiffness. The torsional mode’s contribution is minimal for small eccentricity ratios, with the response primarily driven by translational modes. As eccentricity increases, translational-torsional coupling becomes more pronounced, amplifying the influence of torsional modes on the overall dynamic response. The study also highlights that increasing roof stiffness and aspect ratios can mitigate torsional effects to a certain extent. Still, excessive eccentricity ratios and stiffness may result in higher torsional contributions. Additionally, it is found that increasing torsional stiffness reduces the influence of torsional modes but does not eliminate the overall torsional deformation. The proposed torsional mode contribution factor offers an effective way to quantify these effects, demonstrating that traditional control methods, such as period ratio control, may not fully capture the torsional contributions.
Investigating the Impact of Stress on the Optical Properties of GaN-MX2 (M=Mo, W; X=S, Se) Heterojunctions Using the First Principles
Authors: Zhao Xu-Cai , Dai Meng-Yao , Lang Fu-Mei , Zhao Can , Chen Qiao-Yue , Zhang Li-Li , Huang Yi-Neng , Lu Hai-Ming , Qin Xiao-Chuan
Published: October 2024

This study used the first-principles-based CASTEP software to calculate the structural, electronic, and optical properties of heterojunctions based on single-layer GaN. GaN-MX2 exhibited minimal lattice mismatches, typically less than 3.5%, thereby ensuring lattice coherence. Notably, GaN-MoSe2 had the lowest binding energy, signifying its superior stability among the variants. When compared to single-layer GaN, which has an indirect band gap, all four heterojunctions displayed a smaller direct band gap. These heterojunctions were classified as type II. GaN-MoS2 and GaN-MoSe2 possessed relatively larger interface potential differences, hinting at stronger built-in electric fields. This resulted in an enhanced electron–hole separation ability. GaN-MoSe2 exhibited the highest value for the real part of the dielectric function. This suggests a superior electronic polarization capability under an electric field, leading to high electron mobility. GaN-MoSe2 possessed the strongest optical absorption capacity. Consequently, GaN-MoSe2 was inferred to possess the strongest photocatalytic capability. The band structure and optical properties of GaN-MoSe2 under applied pressure were further calculated. The findings revealed that stress significantly influenced the band gap width and light absorption capacity of GaN-MoSe2. Specifically, under a pressure of 5 GPa, GaN-MoSe2 demonstrated a significantly narrower band gap and enhanced absorption capacity compared to its intrinsic state. These results imply that the application of stress could potentially boost its photocatalytic performance, making it a promising candidate for various applications.
Zirconium Phosphates and Phosphonates: Applications in Catalysis
Authors: Donnadio Anna , Pica Monica , Nocchetti Morena , Piermatti Oriana
Published: October 2024

This review covers recent advancements in the use of zirconium phosphates and phosphonates (ZrPs) as catalysts or catalyst supports for a variety of reactions, including biomass conversion, acid–base catalysis, hydrogenation, oxidation, and C-C coupling reactions, from 2015 to the present. The discussion emphasizes the intrinsic catalytic properties of ZrPs, focusing on how surface acidity, hydrophobic/hydrophilic balance, textural properties, and particle morphology influence their catalytic performance across various reactions. Additionally, this review thoroughly examines the use of ZrPs as supports for catalytic species, ranging from organometallic complexes and metal ions to noble metals and metal oxide nanoparticles. In these applications, ZrPs not only enhance the dispersion and stabilization of active catalytic species but also facilitate their recovery and reuse due to their robust immobilization on the solid support. This dual functionality underscores the importance of ZrPs in promoting efficient, selective, and sustainable catalytic processes, making them essential to the advancement of green chemistry.
TiO2 Catalysts Co-Modified with Bi, F, SnO2, and SiO2 for Photocatalytic Degradation of Rhodamine B Under Simulated Sunlight
Authors: Qiu Lu , Li Hanliang , Xu Wenyi , Zhu Rongshu , Ouyang Feng
Published: October 2024

The organic pollutants discharged from industrial wastewater have caused serious harm to human health. The efficient photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants under sunlight shows promise for industrial applications and energy utilization. In this study, a modified TiO2 photocatalyst doped with bismuth (Bi) and fluorine (F) and composited with SnO2 and SiO2 was prepared, and its performance for the degradation of Rhodamine B (RhB) under simulated sunlight was evaluated. Through the optimization of the doping levels of Bi and F, as well as the ratio of SnO2 and SiO2 to TiO2, the optimal catalyst reached degradation efficiency of 100% for RhB within 20 min under simulated sunlight, with a first-order reaction rate constant of 0.291 min−1. This value was 15, 41, 6.5, and 3.3 times higher than those of TiO2/SnO2, Bi/TiO2, Bi-TiO2/SnO2, and F/Bi-TiO2/SnO2, respectively. The active species detection showed that h+ was the most crucial active species in the process. The role of Bi and F addition and SnO2-SiO2 compositing was investigated by characterization. Bi formed a chemical bonding with TiO2 by doping into TiO2. The absorbance intensity in the UV and visible light regions was improved by SnO2 and F modification. Composite with SiO2 led to a larger surface area that allowed for more RhB adsorption sites. These beneficial modifications greatly enhanced the photocatalytic activity of the catalyst.
Pd-Co Supported on Anodized Aluminium for VOCs Abatement: Reaction Mechanism, Kinetics and Applicability as Monolithic Catalyst
Authors: Naydenov Anton , Todorova Silviya , Tzaneva Boriana , Uzunova Ellie , Kolev Hristo , Karakirova Yordanka , Karashanova Daniela , Velinova Ralitsa
Published: October 2024

It has been found out that Pd-Co-based catalyst, supported on anodized aluminum, possesses very high activity in combustion reactions of C1–C6 alkanes and toluene. The catalyst characterization has been made by N2-pysisorption, XRD, SEM, XPS, FTIR, TEM, and EPR methods. In view of the great interest, methane combustion was investigated in detail. It is ascertained that the complete oxidation of methane proceeds by dissociative adsorption on PdO and formation of hydroxyl and methyl groups, the former being highly reactive, and it undergoes further reaction to oxygen-containing intermediates, whereupon HCHO is one of them. The presence of Co2+ cations promotes greatly oxygen adsorption. The dissociative adsorption is favored on neighboring Co2+ cations, leading to the formation of bridging peroxides. Further, the oxygen dissociates on the nearest Pd2+ cations. According to the results from the experimental data, instrumental methods, and the observed kinetics and DFT model calculations, it can be concluded that the reaction pathway over Pd+Co/anodic alumina support (AAS) catalyst proceeds most probably through Mars–van Krevelen. The obtained data on the kinetics were used for simulation of the methane combustion in a full-scale adiabatic reactor.
A Combination of Adsorption and Photocatalysis Processes for the Removal of Direct Blue 71 (DB71) Dye on Fe-Doped Layered Double Hydroxides
Authors: Niño-Torres Osiris , Ramos-Ramírez Esthela , Serafín-Muñoz Alma , Feria-Reyes Rossy , Carreño-Aguilera Gilberto , Cruz-Jiménez Gustavo , Gutiérrez-Ortega Norma
Published: October 2024

Pollution in ecosystems has increased, especially in water, due to the pollutant agents that alter their chemical, physical and biological characteristics. This requires actions to resolve or at least reduce the harmful effects generated on the environment and people’s health. Many of the contaminants present in water come from the industrial sector, with the textile industry being one of the most impactful as it uses mostly synthetic dyes, which are characterized as being recalcitrant and toxic, so they cannot be degraded by conventional water treatment methods. Advanced oxidation processes have a great potential for application, especially those that use heterogeneous photocatalysis. The present research evaluates the efficiency in the adsorption and degradation of the triazoic Direct Blue 71 dye in aqueous mediums at concentrations of 600 ppm by the heterogeneous photocatalysis method. The photocatalysts used are layered double hydroxides (LDHs) with a Mg/Al = 3 ratio and are thermally activated and doped with Fe at 1, 3 and 5% w/w. The most efficient materials achieved removal percentages greater than 80% by means of a second-order kinetic model with a DB71 half-life decolorization of less than one hour; as shown by an HPLC study, the absence of intermediate products would confirm the mineralization of the dye.
Environmentally Friendly Biological Activated Carbon Derived from Sugarcane Waste as a Promising Carbon Source for Efficient and Robust Rechargeable Zinc–Air Battery
Authors: Deng Lianghao , Wang Chenyang , Xu Anqi , Zha Fanglin , Liu Tong , Hu Xuelei , Wang Yao
Published: October 2024

China is one of the largest sugarcane industrial countries in the world, and the annual output of bagasse waste is abundant. Classical incineration, landfill, and other treatment methods are inefficient and seriously harmful to the environment, so it is urgent to develop a new comprehensive utilization of agricultural waste. In this work, the sugarcane waste residue is converted to biological activated carbon (BAC) through a simple pre-carbonization and KOH activation process, which is then mixed with perovskite oxide BaCo0.5Fe0.5O3−δ (BCF) to form BAC/BCF composite air electrode. BAC/BCF assembled rechargeable zinc–air battery (ZAB) exhibits a relatively good output maximum power density of 96 mW·cm−2 and considerable long-term charge–discharge cycle stability over 250 h operation. These results indicate that the BAC derived from sugarcane waste is a promising potential carbon material candidate for ZAB application, which can realize the high-value utilization of agricultural waste in the field of efficient and durable energy storage and conversion devices.
Kinetic Characterization of Pt/Al2O3 Catalyst for Hydrogen Production via Methanol Aqueous-Phase Reforming
Authors: Sousa José , Lakhtaria Paranjeet , Ribeirinha Paulo , Huhtinen Werneri , Tallgren Johan , Mendes Adélio
Published: October 2024

Compared to steam reforming, methanol aqueous-phase reforming (APR) converts methanol to hydrogen and carbon dioxide at lower temperatures, but also displays lower conversion rates. Herein, methanol APR is studied over the active Pt/Al2O3 catalyst under different operating conditions. Studies were conducted at different temperatures, pressures, methanol mass fractions, and residence times. APR performance was evaluated in terms of methanol conversion, hydrogen production rate, hydrogen selectivity, and by-product formation. The results revealed that an increase in operating pressure and methanol mass fraction had an adverse effect on the APR performance. Conversely, it was found that hydrogen selectivity was unaffected by the operating pressure and residence time for the methanol feed mass fraction of 5%. For the methanol feed mass fraction of 55%, hydrogen selectivity was improved by operating pressure and residence time. The alumina support phase change to boehmite as well as sintering and leaching of the catalytic particles were observed during catalyst stability experiments. Additionally, a comparison between methanol steam reforming (MSR) and APR was also performed.
Molecular Mechanisms of Skatole-Induced Inflammatory Responses in Intestinal Epithelial Caco-2 Cells: Implications for Colorectal Cancer and Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Ishii Katsunori , Naito Kazuma , Tanaka Dai , Koto Yoshihito , Kurata Koichi , Shimizu Hidehisa
Published: October 2024

Inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6), in intestinal epithelial cells significantly contribute to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and colorectal cancer (CRC). Given our previous findings that TNF-α is upregulated in intestinal epithelial Caco-2 cells induced by skatole, a tryptophan-derived gut microbiota metabolite, the present study aimed to explore the relationship between skatole and IL-6, alongside TNF-α. Skatole elevated the promoter activity of IL-6 as well as TNF-α, and increased IL-6 mRNA expression and protein secretion. In addition to activating NF-κB, the NF-κB inhibitor BAY 11-7082 reduced skatole-induced cell survival and the mRNA expression of IL-6 and TNF-α. NF-κB activation was attenuated by the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathway inhibitor U0126 and the p38 inhibitor SB203580, but not by the c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) inhibitor SP600125. U126 and SB203580 also decreased the skatole-induced increase in IL-6 expression. When skatole-induced AhR activation was inhibited by CH223191, in addition to promoting NF-κB activation, IL-6 expression was enhanced in a manner similar to that previously reported for TNF-α. Taken together, these results suggest that skatole-elicited NF-κB activation induces IL-6 and TNF-α expression, although AhR activation partially suppresses this process. The ability of skatole to increase the expression of IL-6 and TNF-α may significantly affect the development and progression of these diseases. Moreover, the balance between NF-κB and AhR activation appears to govern the skatole-induced increases in IL-6 and TNF-α expression. Therefore, the present findings provide new insights into the mechanisms linking tryptophan-derived gut microbiota metabolites with colorectal disease.
Transplacental Transfer of Oxytocin and Its Impact on Neonatal Cord Blood and In Vitro Retinal Cell Activity
Authors: Adegboro Claudette O. , Luo Wenxiang , Kabra Meha , McAdams Ryan M. , York Nathaniel W. , Wijenayake Ruwandi I. , Suchla Kiana M. , Pillers De-Ann M. , Pattnaik Bikash R.
Published: October 2024

The development of fetal organs can be impacted by systemic changes in maternal circulation, with the placenta playing a pivotal role in maintaining pregnancy homeostasis and nutrient exchange. In clinical obstetrics, oxytocin (OXT) is commonly used to induce labor. To explore the potential role of OXT in the placental homeostasis of OXT, we compared OXT levels in neonatal cord blood among neonates (23–42 weeks gestation) whose mothers either received prenatal OXT or experienced spontaneous labor. Our previous research revealed that the oxytocin receptor (OXTR), essential in forming the blood–retina barrier, is expressed in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). We hypothesized that perinatal OXT administration might influence the development of the neural retina and its vasculature, offering therapeutic potential for retinal diseases such as retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). Plasma OXT levels were measured using a commercial OXT ELISA kit. Human fetal RPE (hfRPE) cells treated with OXT (10 µM) were assessed for gene expression via RNA sequencing, revealing 14 downregulated and 32 upregulated genes. To validate these differentially expressed genes (DEGs), hfRPE cells were exposed to OXT (0.01, 0.1, 1, or 10 µM) for 12 h, followed by RNA analysis via real-time PCR. Functional, enrichment, and network analyses (Gene Ontology term, FunRich, Cytoscape) were performed to predict the affected pathways. This translational study suggests that OXT likely crosses the placenta, altering fetal OXT concentrations. RNA sequencing identified 46 DEGs involved in vital metabolic and signaling pathways and critical cellular components. Our results indicate that the perinatal administration of OXT may affect neural retina and retinal vessel development, making OXT a potential therapeutic option for developmental eye diseases, including ROP.
Excess Potassium Promotes Autophagy to Maintain the Immunosuppressive Capacity of Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells Independent of Arginase 1
Authors: Thylur Puttalingaiah Ramesh , Dean Matthew J. , Zheng Liqin , Philbrook Phaethon , Wyczechowska Dorota , Kayes Timothy , Del Valle Luis , Danos Denise , Sanchez-Pino Maria Dulfary
Published: October 2024

Potassium ions (K+) are critical electrolytes that regulate multiple functions in immune cells. Recent studies have shown that the elevated concentration of extracellular potassium in the tumor interstitial fluid limits T cell effector function and suppresses the anti-tumor capacity of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). The effect of excess potassium on the biology of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), another important immune cell component of the tumor microenvironment (TME), is unknown. Here, we present data showing that increased concentrations of potassium chloride (KCl), as the source of K+ ions, facilitate autophagy by increasing the expression of the autophagosome marker LC3β. Simultaneously, excess potassium ions significantly decrease the expression of arginase I (Arg I) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) without reducing the ability of MDSCs to suppress T cell proliferation. Further investigation reveals that excess K+ ions decrease the expression of the transcription factor C/EBP-β and alter the expression of phosphorylated kinases. While excess K+ ions downregulated the expression levels of phospho-AMPKα (pAMPKα), it increased the levels of pAKT and pERK. Additionally, potassium increased mitochondrial respiration as measured by the oxygen consumption rate (OCR). Interestingly, all these alterations induced by K+ ions were abolished by the autophagy inhibitor 3-methyladenine (3-MA). Our results suggest that hyperosmotic stress caused by excess K+ ions regulate the mitochondrial respiration and signaling pathways in MDSCs to trigger the process of autophagy to support MDSCs’ immunosuppressive function by mechanisms independent of Arg I and iNOS. Overall, our in vitro and ex vivo findings offer valuable insights into the adaptations of MDSCs within the K+ ion-rich TME, which has important implications for MDSCs-targeted therapies.
L-PGDS–PGD2–DP1 Axis Regulates Phagocytosis by CD36+ MGs/MΦs That Are Exclusively Present Within Ischemic Areas After Stroke
Authors: Nakagomi Takayuki , Narita Aya , Nishie Hideaki , Nakano-Doi Akiko , Sawano Toshinori , Fukuda Yu , Matsuyama Tomohiro
Published: October 2024

Brain injuries, such as ischemic stroke, cause cell death. Although phagocytosis of cellular debris is mainly performed by microglia/macrophages (MGs/MΦs), excessive accumulation beyond their phagocytic capacities results in waste product buildup, delaying brain cell regeneration. Therefore, it is essential to increase the potential for waste product removal from damaged brains. Lipocalin-type prostaglandin D synthase (L-PGDS) is the primary synthase for prostaglandin D2 (PGD2) and has been reported as a scavenger of waste products. However, the mechanism by which the L-PGDS–PGD2 axis exerts such an effect remains unelucidated. In this study, using a mouse model of ischemic stroke, we found that L-PGDS and its downstream signaling pathway components, including PGD2 and PGD2 receptor DP1 (but not DP2), were significantly upregulated in ischemic areas. Immunohistochemistry revealed the predominant expression of L-PGDS in the leptomeninges of ischemic areas and high expression levels of DP1 in CD36+ MGs/MΦs that were specifically present within ischemic areas. Furthermore, PGD2 treatment promoted the conversion of MGs/MΦs into CD36+ scavenger types and increased phagocytic activities of CD36+ MGs/MΦs. Because CD36+ MGs/MΦs specifically appeared within ischemic areas after stroke, our findings suggest that the L-PGDS–PGD2–DP1 axis plays an important role in brain tissue repair by regulating phagocytic activities of CD36+ MGs/MΦs.
Correction: Szymanska et al. The Effect of Visfatin on the Functioning of the Porcine Pituitary Gland: An In Vitro Study. Cells 2023, 12, 2835
Authors: Szymanska Karolina , Rytelewska Edyta , Zaobidna Ewa , Kiezun Marta , Gudelska Marlena , Kopij Grzegorz , Dobrzyn Kamil , Mlyczynska Ewa , Kurowska Patrycja , Kaminska Barbara , Nynca Anna , Smolinska Nina , Rak Agnieszka , Kaminski Tadeusz
Published: October 2024

In the original publication [...]
N6-Methyladenosine RNA Modification Regulates the Differential Muscle Development in Large White and Ningxiang Pigs
Authors: Gu Hao , Xu Kang , Yu Zhao , Ren Zufeng , Chen Fan , Zhou Changfan , Zeng Wei , Ren Hongyan , Yin Yulong , Bi Yanzhen
Published: October 2024

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most common modification in eukaryotic RNAs. Growing research indicates that m6A methylation is crucial for a multitude of biological processes. However, research on the m6A modifications in the regulation of porcine muscle growth is lacking. In this study, we identified differentially expressed genes in the neonatal period of muscle development between Large White (LW) and NingXiang (NX) pigs and further reported m6A methylation patterns via MeRIP-seq. We found that m6A modification regulates muscle cell development, myofibrils, cell cycle, and phosphatase regulator activity during the neonatal phase of muscle development. Interestingly, differentially expressed genes in LW and NX pigs were mainly enriched in pathways involved in protein synthesis. Furthermore, we performed a conjoint analysis of MeRIP-seq and RNA-seq data and identified 27 differentially expressed and m6A-modified genes. Notably, a typical muscle-specific envelope transmembrane protein, WFS1, was differentially regulated by m6A modifications in LW and NX pigs. We further revealed that the m6A modification accelerated the degradation of WFS1 in a YTHDF2-dependent manner. Noteworthy, we identified a single nucleotide polymorphism (C21551T) within the last exon of WFS1 that resulted in variable m6A methylation, contributing to the differing WFS1 expression levels observed in LW and NX pigs. Our study conducted a comprehensive analysis of the m6A modification on NX and LW pigs during the neonatal period of muscle development, and elucidated the mechanism by which m6A regulates the differential expression of WFS1 in the two breeds.
A Portable Electronic Nose Coupled with Deep Learning for Enhanced Detection and Differentiation of Local Thai Craft Spirits
Authors: Harnsoongnoen Supakorn , Babpan Nantawat , Srisai Saksun , Kongkeaw Pongsathorn , Srisongkram Natthaphon
Published: October 2024

In this study, our primary focus is the biomimetic design and rigorous evaluation of an economically viable and portable ‘e-nose’ system, tailored for the precise detection of a broad range of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in local Thai craft spirits. This e-nose system is innovatively equipped with cost-efficient metal oxide gas sensors and a temperature/humidity sensor, ensuring comprehensive and accurate sensing. A custom-designed real-time data acquisition system is integrated, featuring gas flow control, humidity filters, dual sensing/reference chambers, an analog-to-digital converter, and seamless data integration with a laptop. Deep learning, utilizing a multilayer perceptron (MLP), is employed to achieve highly effective classification of local Thai craft spirits, demonstrated by a perfect classification accuracy of 100% in experimental studies. This work underscores the significant potential of biomimetic principles in advancing cost-effective, portable, and analytically precise e-nose systems, offering valuable insights into future applications of advanced gas sensor technology in food, biomedical, and environmental monitoring and safety.
In-Hospital and Interstage Mortality After Late Norwood Procedure: Acknowledging the Risks When We Are Running Out of Time
Authors: Andronache Andreea Alina , Di Cosola Roberta , Evangelista Martina , Boveri Sara , Schianchi Laura , Giamberti Alessandro , Chessa Massimo
Published: October 2024

Background: A Norwood procedure performed after 14 days of life is notably burdened by a high mortality. We analysed the real risk and which other factors influence the mortality in late Norwood procedures. Methods: A single-centre, retrospective review of a series of consecutive patients who underwent a surgical Norwood procedure from January 2019 until December 2023. The patients’ characteristics were considered to identify the factors associated with in-hospital and interstage mortality. Results: 35 patients were included and 71% (25) of the patients underwent the Norwood procedure after 14 days of life. The median age was 27 days (6–259 days). The in-hospital mortality was 26% (9/35) with 89% (8) of the deceased being older than 15 days at the time of the surgery. Other factors that negatively affected the outcome were a restrictive interatrial septum defect (ASD) in 66% of all patients (23), the need for mechanical ventilation in 46% (16) and systemic infection prior to surgery in 43% (15). Conclusions: Age at the time of Norwood was not associated with a higher risk of mortality, but other factors such as restrictive ASD, preoperative infection and the need for mechanical ventilation prior to surgery are even more important in predicting the short-term outcome.
Digital Narratives: The Impact of Instagram® on Mothers of Children with Congenital Toxoplasmosis
Authors: Veloso Gabrielle Gonçalves , Machado-Kayzuka Giovanna Cristina , Neris Rhyquelle Rhibna , Leite Ana Carolina Andrade Biaggi , Barbosa Nayara Gonçalves , Frizzo Heloísa Cristina Figueiredo , Escaliante Gabrielle Vedoveto , Leite Adriana Moraes , Gomes Beato Beatriz Volpin , Santos Poliane da Silva , Gomes-Sponholz Flávia , Nascimento Lucila Castanheira
Published: October 2024

Background: Congenital toxoplasmosis leads to severe complications in childhood and presents significant global health challenges. In Brazil, the prevalence of toxoplasmosis during pregnancy and congenital cases ranges from 0.3 to 8 per 1000 live births. The clinical manifestations of congenital toxoplasmosis can include neurological and ocular damage, among other health issues, which place significant burdens on affected families. Objective: This study aims to investigate the experiences and motivations of mothers of children with congenital toxoplasmosis who share their journeys on social media, particularly Instagram. Methods: A qualitative virtual ethnography was used that explored the content shared by mothers of children diagnosed with congenital toxoplasmosis, aiming to understand how social media aids in their coping strategies and the support networks they create. Results: Fifteen Instagram accounts were analyzed, and twelve mothers participated in in-depth interviews. Thematic analysis revealed three main themes: the initial search for information and support, the evolving role of social media in advocacy and education, and the creation of a supportive online community. Conclusions: This study highlights the potential of social media to provide emotional support, disseminate information, and foster communities among mothers facing similar challenges, ultimately contributing to better care strategies and professional awareness for supporting families dealing with congenital toxoplasmosis.
Relationship Between Iron Deficiency Anemia and Stunting in Pediatric Populations in Developing Countries: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Oktarina Caroline , Dilantika Charisma , Sitorus Nova Lidia , Basrowi Ray Wagiu
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) and stunting are prevalent global health issues, particularly in developing countries, where previous studies have suggested a potential relationship between them. This systematic review aims to analyze the relationship between iron deficiency anemia and stunting in pediatric populations in developing countries. Methods: Literature searches were conducted on PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and EBSCO Host. The primary outcome was the association between IDA and stunting. Risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale (NOS) for cohort studies and the Effective Public Health Practice Project (EPHPP) for other observational studies. Meta-analysis was performed with a random-effects model and heterogeneity assessment. A Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) assessment was performed to determine the certainty and importance of the study. Results: Out of 19,095 articles, 15 studies were included in the systematic review, and 4 studies were included in the meta-analysis, encompassing 21,936 subjects aged 0 to 12 years. IDA prevalence ranged from 3.6 to 58.8%, while stunting prevalence varied from 6.6 to 44.5%. Nine articles supported a significant relationship between IDA and stunting, revealing that stunted children had a 1.31–6.785 times higher risk of developing IDA. The odds ratio of children with IDA to be stunted was 2.27 (95% CI = 1.30–3.95). All studies exhibited a moderate risk of bias. GRADE assessment suggested that the evidence’s certainty is low but important. Conclusions: The high IDA prevalence in developing countries, including Indonesia, is associated with stunting in children, suggesting a synergistic relationship.
Decoding Apelin: Its Role in Metabolic Programming, Fetal Growth, and Gestational Complications
Authors: Loukas Nikolaos , Vrachnis Dionysios , Antonakopoulos Nikolaos , Stavros Sofoklis , Machairiotis Nikolaos , Fotiou Alexandros , Christodoulaki Chryssi , Lolos Markos , Maroudias Georgios , Potiris Anastasios , Drakakis Petros , Vrachnis Nikolaos
Published: October 2024

Placental insufficiency and gestational diabetes, which are both serious pregnancy complications, are linked to altered fetal growth, whether restricted or excessive, and result in metabolic dysfunction, hypoxic/oxidative injury, and adverse perinatal outcomes. Although much research has been carried out in this field, the underlying pathogenetic mechanisms have not as yet been fully elucidated. Particularly because of the role it plays in cardiovascular performance, glucose metabolism, inflammation, and oxidative stress, the adipokine apelin was recently shown to be a potential regulator of fetal growth and metabolic programming. This review investigated the numerous biological actions of apelin in utero and aimed to shed more light on its role in fetal growth and metabolic programming. The expression of the apelinergic system in a number of tissues indicates its involvement in many physiological mechanisms, including angiogenesis, cell proliferation, energy metabolism, inflammation, and oxidative stress. Moreover, it appears that apelin has a major function in disorders such as diabetes mellitus, fetal growth abnormalities, fetal hypoxia, and preeclampsia. We herein describe in detail the regulatory effects exerted by the adipokine apelin on fetal growth and metabolic programming while stressing the necessity for additional research into the therapeutic potential of apelin and its mechanisms of action in pregnancy-related disorders.
Development and Validation of a Diagnostic Algorithm for Down Syndrome Using Birth Certificate and International Classification of Diseases Codes
Authors: Ammar Lin , Bird Kristin , Nian Hui , Maxwell-Horn Angela , Lee Rees , Ding Tan , Riddell Corinne , Gebretsadik Tebeb , Snyder Brittney , Hartert Tina , Wu Pingsheng
Published: October 2024

Objective: We aimed to develop an algorithm that accurately identifies children with Down syndrome (DS) using administrative data. Methods: We identified a cohort of children born between 2000 and 2017, enrolled in the Tennessee Medicaid Program (TennCare), who either had DS coded on their birth certificate or had a diagnosis listed using an International Classification of Diseases (ICD) code (suspected DS), and who received care at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, a comprehensive academic medical center, in the United States. Children with suspected DS were defined as having DS if they had (a) karyotype-confirmed DS indicated on their birth certificate; (b) karyotype-pending DS indicated on their birth certificate (or just DS if test type was not specified) and at least two healthcare encounters for DS during the first 6 years of life; or (c) at least three healthcare encounters for DS, with the first and last encounter separated by at least 30 days, during the first six years of life. The positive predictive value (PPV) of the algorithm and 95% confidence interval (CI) were reported. Results: Of the 411 children with suspected DS, 354 (86.1%) were defined as having DS by the algorithm. According to medical chart review, the algorithm correctly identified 347 children with DS (PPV = 98%, 95%CI: 96.0–99.0%). Of the 57 children the algorithm defined as not having DS, 50 (97.7%, 95%CI: 76.8–93.9%) were confirmed as not having DS by medical chart review. Conclusions: An algorithm that accurately identifies individuals with DS using birth certificate data and/or ICD codes provides a valuable tool to study DS using administrative data.
Reconstructing and Hindcasting Sea Ice Conditions in Hudson Bay Using a Thermal Variability Framework
Authors: Gough William A.
Published: October 2024

The Hudson Bay seasonal sea ice record has been well known since the advent of satellite reconnaissance, with a continuous record since 1971. To extend the record to earlier decades, a thermal variability framework is used with the surface temperature climatological records from four climate stations along the Hudson Bay shoreline: Churchill, Manitoba; Kuujjurapik, Quebec; Inukjuak, Quebec; and Coral Harbour, Nunavut. The day-to-day surface temperature variation for the minimum temperature of the day was found to be well correlated to the known seasonal sea ice distribution in the Bay. The sea ice/thermal variability relationship was able to reproduce the existing sea ice record (the average breakup and freeze-up dates for the Bay) largely within the error limits of the sea ice data (1 week), as well as filling in some gaps in the existing sea ice record. The breakup dates, freeze-up dates, and ice-free season lengths were generated for the period of 1922 to 1970, with varying degrees of confidence, adding close to 50 years to the sea ice record. Key periods in the spring and fall were found to be critical, signaling the time when the changes in the sea conditions are first notable in the temperature variability record, often well in advance of the 5/10th ice coverage used for the sea ice record derived from ice charts. These key periods in advance of the breakup and freeze-up could be potentially used, in season, as a predictor for navigation. The results are suggestive of a fundamental change in the nature of the breakup (faster) and freeze-up (longer) in recent years.
Two Centuries of Monthly Rainfall in Barcelona (NE Spain): Disparity Trends, Correlation of Autumnal Rainfall with the WeMO Index and Its Contribution to Annual Amounts
Authors: Lana Xavier , Serra Carina , Casas-Castillo María del Carmen , Rodríguez-Solà Raül , Prohom Marc
Published: October 2024

Rainfall irregularity in Mediterranean regions is a characterizing feature of their climate. The aim of this manuscript is to analyze, in a climate change context, the evolution of this irregularity in Barcelona. A very long monthly database (1786–2023) enables detailed analysis of rainfall evolution, with its irregularity quantified using the concept of disparity, the trends of which are assessed using moving windows and a modified Mann–Kendall test. The relationship between disparity and the Western Mediterranean Oscillation index (WeMOi) is also explored. Additionally, the study compares rainfall amounts to the 1961–1990 reference period and evaluates autumn’s contribution to annual totals. A significant and increasing disparity trend over the years is detected for the autumn months. While correlations between disparity and WeMOi are limited, the WeMOi and monthly precipitation are significantly correlated for two autumn months, October and November, and for December, aligning with previous studies. This suggests the potential influence of the WeMOi fluctuations on future rainfall during these three months. Recent evidence of the increasing autumn irregularity is seen in the consecutive low-rainfall years of 2021, 2022 and 2023, which stand out as the driest since 1835, with the last two autumns ranking among the 5% driest.
Nonsingular Terminal Sliding Mode Control for Vehicular Platoon Systems with Measurement Delays and Noise
Authors: Li Mengjie , Li Shaobao , Luo Xiaoyuan , Bai Zhizhong
Published: October 2024

Platooning of vehicular systems has been considered an effective solution for alleviating traffic congestion and reducing energy consumption. Because of limitations in onboard sensors, the measurement system inevitably suffers from measurement delays and noise, yet it receives insufficient attention. In this article, to deal with the measurement delays and noise while improving convergence performance, the platoon control problem of vehicular systems is studied under the nonsingular terminal sliding mode control (NTSMC) framework. A sliding mode observer (SMO) is proposed to estimate the states affected by measurement delays and noise. A distributed NTSMC scheme is developed for the platooning of the vehicular systems and ensures the convergence of the sliding mode surface affected by measurement delays and noise. One salient feature of the proposed SMO is that it can handle time-varying measurement delays rather than constant ones. Moreover, the control law is free of initial spacing error conditions under the employed coupled spacing policy. Numerical simulations are finally provided to demonstrate the effectiveness and efficiency of the proposed algorithm.