bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TimesNet-PM2.5: Interpretable TimesNet for Disentangling Intraperiod and Interperiod Variations in PM2.5 Prediction
Authors: Huang Yiming , Zhou Ziyu , Wang Zihao , Zhi Xiaoying , Liu Xiliang
Published: October 2023

Time-series forecasting has a wide range of application scenarios. Predicting particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 μm or less (PM2.5) in the future is a vital type of time-series forecasting task where valid forecasting would provide an important reference for public decisions. The current state-of-the-art general time-series model, TimesNet, has achieved a level of performance well above the mainstream level on most benchmarks. Attributing this success to an ability to disentangle intraperiod and interperiod temporal variations, we propose TimesNet-PM2.5. To make this model more powerful for concrete PM2.5 prediction tasks, task-oriented improvements to its structure have been added to enhance its ability to predict specific time spots through better interpretability and meaningful visualizations. On the one hand, this paper rigorously investigates the impact of various meteorological indicators on PM2.5 levels, examining their primary influencing factors from both local and global perspectives. On the other hand, using visualization techniques, we validate the capability of representation learning in time-series forecasting and performance on the forecasting task of the TimesNet-PM2.5. Experimentally, TimesNet-PM2.5 demonstrates an improvement over the original TimesNet. Specifically, the Mean Squared Error (MSE) improved by 8.8% for 1-h forecasting and by 22.5% for 24-h forecasting.
South Asian High Identification and Rainstorm Monitoring Using Fengyun-4-Derived Atmospheric Motion Vectors
Authors: Ren Suling , Qin Danyu , Niu Ning , Yang Bingyun
Published: October 2023

Based on atmospheric motion vectors (AMVs) derived from the Fengyun-4 meteorological satellite (FY-4), in this paper, integrated multi-satellite retrievals for GPM precipitation and reanalysis datasets and the vertical distribution characteristics of FY-4 AMVs, their application in the identification of the South Asian high (SAH) anticyclone and their application in the real-time monitoring of rainstorm disasters are studied. The results show that the AMVs’ vertical distribution characteristics are different across regions and seasons. AMVs from 150 to 350 hPa can be chosen as the upper troposphere wind (the total number accounts for about 77.2% on average). The center and shape of the upper tropospheric anticyclone obtained from AMVs are close to or slightly southward compared with those of the SAH at 200 hPa obtained from the ERA5 geopotential height. The SAH ridge line identified using the upper troposphere AMV zonal wind (the zonal wind is equal to zero) is slightly southward by about 1–2 degrees of latitude from that identified using ERA5 at 200 hPa but with a similar seasonal advance. The upper troposphere AMV can be used to monitor the location of the SAH and the evolution of its ridge line. The abnormally strong precipitation in South China is related to the location of the SAH and its ridge line. When the precipitation is abnormally strong/weak, the upper troposphere AMV deviation airflow shows divergence/convergence. During the “Dragon Boat Water” period in South China in 2022, strong precipitation occurred in the strong westerly winds or divergent flow on the northeast side of the upper troposphere anticyclone obtained from AMVs, and the precipitation intensity was the strongest when the divergence reached its peak, but this is not shown clearly in the EAR5 dataset.
Exploring the Mutual Influence Relationships of International Airport Resilience Factors from the Perspective of Aviation Safety: Using Fermatean Fuzzy DEMATEL Approach
Authors: Huang Hsiu-Chen , Huang Chun-Nen , Lo Huai-Wei , Thai Tyan-Muh
Published: October 2023

International airports are responding to the threat of climate change and various man-made hazards by proposing impact protection measures. Airport managers and risk controllers should develop a comprehensive risk assessment model to measure the mutual influence relationships of resilience factors. In this paper, the problem of treating resilience factors as independent ones in previous studies is overcome. In this study, we not only develop a framework for assessing resilience factors in international airports based on an aviation safety perspective, but also develop the Fermatean fuzzy decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (FF-DEMATEL) to identify the mutual influence relationships of resilience factors. Fermatean fuzzy sets are incorporated in DEMATEL to reflect information incompleteness and uncertainty. The critical resilience factors of international airports were identified through real-case analysis. In terms of importance, the results show that rescue capability is a core capability that is important for airport resilience. In addition, “security management system (SeMS) integrity”, “education and training of ground staff on airport safety awareness”, “first aid mechanism for the injured”, and “adequate maintenance equipment for rapid restoration tasks” are identified as key factors that are given more weights. On the other hand, in terms of influence strength, the detection capability has the highest total influence and significantly influenced the other resilience capabilities. Finally, the influential network relation map (INRM) is utilized to assist decisionmakers in swiftly comprehending the impact of factors and formulating viable strategies to enhance airport resilience. This enables airport managers and risk controllers to make informed decisions and allocate resources efficiently.
Gravure Printing for Lithium-Ion Batteries Manufacturing: A Review
Authors: Montanino Maria , Sico Giuliano
Published: October 2023

Interest in printed batteries is growing due to their applications in our daily lives, e.g., for portable and wearable electronics, biomedicals, and internet of things (IoT). The main advantages offered by printing technologies are flexibility, customizability, easy production, large area, and high scalability. Among the printing techniques, gravure is the most appealing for the industrial manufacture of functional layers thanks to its characteristics of high quality and high speed. To date, despite its advantages, such technology has been little investigated, especially in the field of energy since it is difficult to obtain functionality and adequate mass loading using diluted inks. In this review, the recent results for printed lithium-ion batteries are reported and discussed. A methodology for controlling the ink formulation and process based on the capillary number was proposed to obtain high printing quality and layer functionality. Specific concerns were found to play a fundamental role for each specific material and its performance when used as a film. Considering all such issues, gravure can provide high performance layers. A multilayer approach enables the desired layer mass loading to be achieved with advantages in terms of bulk homogeneity. Such results can boost the future industrial employment of gravure printing in the field of printed batteries.
Multicomponent Velocity Measurement for Linear Sprinting: Usain Bolt’s 100 m World-Record Analysis
Authors: Štuhec Stanislav , Planjšek Peter , Čoh Milan , Mackala Krzysztof
Published: October 2023

The purpose of this report is to provide additional analysis and commentary on the men’s 100 m world record of 9.58 s, set by Usain Bolt in the 2009 Berlin World Championships in Athletics. In addition, the entire race underwent a unique kinematic analysis, particularly emphasizing the maximum running velocity and its related factors. It was possible due the application of the new Stuhec software. The data were provided by LAVEG’S advanced laser measurement technology based on positional data with a high spatiotemporal resolution. The maximum velocity phase is the most critical determinant of the final race time. Bolt completed two phases in this world-record 100 m sprint: acceleration and top velocity. The borderline between these phases reached the highest velocity of 12.32 m/s on a 52 m run. He could keep the maximum velocity in five 10 m sections (50–100 m). The occurrence of functional asymmetry—the difference in step length between the left and right legs—was also noticed. Longer steps were taken with the left leg, almost over 80 m. From a practical point of view, new technologies (e.g., software) allow coaches and athletes to analyze the kinematic parameters of sprinting even more precisely and in detail. They must take into account precise changes in the course of maximum speed and the parameters determining it which are step length and frequency. Based on such an analysis, it is possible to modify the training process aimed at increasing the potential, both maximum speed and the supporting factors of strength and power. This must be conditioned by the appropriate selection of training measures shaping the abovementioned motor skills and parameters describing the optimal sprinting technique.
Dietary Canthaxanthin Supplementation Promotes the Laying Rate and Follicular Development of Huaixiang Hens
Authors: Zhao Zhuangzhi , Wu Jiang , Liu Yuan , Zhuang Yijie , Yan Haoguo , Xiao Mei , Zhang Li , An Lilong
Published: October 2023

Canthaxanthin(CX) is a ketocarotenoid, which is widely used in poultry production as a lipophilic antioxidant. Huaixiang chickens are a local breed in China famous for their excellent meat quality; improving their laying rate via nutritional regulation has attracted extensive attention. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of dietary CX on the laying rate and follicular development in Huaixiang hens. A total of 180 Huaixiang hens were randomly divided into five groups with six replicates, and six chickens per replication. The control group (CON) were fed a basal diet, and the treatment group (NT) were fed a basal diet supplemented with 4, 6, 8 and 10 mg/kg CX. All chickens were 26 weeks old, living at an average environmental temperature of 25 ± 2 °C with a relative humidity of 65–75%. The results showed that supplementing the CX improved the laying rate and large white follicles (LWF) number (p < 0.05) and increased the concentration of reproductive hormones (LH, FSH, E2 and Prog) (p < 0.05), and the basal diet supplemented with 6 mg/kg CX worked best. Moreover, CX could increase the activities of antioxidant enzymes SOD and GSH-Px (p < 0.05) and reduce the content of the lipid peroxidation product MDA in Huaixiang chickens (p < 0.05); again, 6 mg/kg CX was best. In conclusion, dietary CX had positive effects on the laying rate, ovarian structure, reproductive hormone secretion, follicle development, and the antioxidant capacity of Huaixiang hens, and 6 mg/kg CX was recommended to be added to the diet of Huaixiang chickens.
Seasonal Pattern in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus in Poland: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Walkowiak Marek J. , Jamka Małgorzata , Walkowiak Marcin Piotr , Gutaj Paweł , Wender-Ożegowska Ewa
Published: October 2023

The existing literature does not address the question of the seasonal impact on pregnancy in Central-Eastern Europe; therefore, this study was designed to investigate the seasonal variation in gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) based on a recent Polish sample. The data of 30,205 newborns from singleton pregnancies and their mothers, including the date and gestational age of birth, neonatal sex and weight, maternal age and parity, mode of delivery, ethnicity, and a detailed list of comorbidities (including GDM), were retrospectively analysed. The prevalence of GDM was significantly (p < 0.0001) lower in spring (14.71%) than in the other seasons (16.78%). A higher incidence of GDM was observed for mothers who underwent an oral glucose tolerance test from June to August compared to those who were tested from December to February (17.34% vs. 14.75%, p < 0.0001). Similarly, there were significant differences between seasons with higher and lower insolation. The regression analysis revealed that seasonal patterns were significantly associated with the prevalence of GDM. In conclusion, this large retrospective cohort study demonstrated seasonal changes in GDM risk. The observed seasonal patterns may equally refer to mothers of babies born at term and prematurely. Further research concerning GDM risk and other seasonal and gender associations is warranted.
Anifrolumab for Moderate and Severe Muco-Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus: A Monocentric Experience and Review of the Current Literature
Authors: Paolino Giovanni , Ramirez Giuseppe A. , Calabrese Chiara , Moroni Luca , Bianchi Vittoria Giulia , Bozzolo Enrica P. , Mercuri Santo Raffaele , Dagna Lorenzo
Published: October 2023

Refractory cutaneous manifestations constitute a significant unmet need in patients with cutaneous lupus (CLE), even in the setting of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) with otherwise good control of inflammatory manifestations. Anifrolumab, an anti-interferon I receptor monoclonal antibody has recently been approved for serologically positive SLE with or without CLE, but real-life efficacy and safety data are currently limited. In addition, relatively limited evidence exists about the spectrum of cutaneous manifestations potentially benefitting from anifrolumab treatment and about the optimal clinimetrics to monitor treatment efficacy. While summarising current evidence on the topic in the literature, we report on four patients with SLE and refractory CLE who were successfully treated with anifrolumab. We also describe the potential usefulness and complementarity of the cutaneous lupus activity investigator’s global assessment (CLA-IGA) in assessing cutaneous activity in patients treated with anifrolumab.
HLA-DRB1*14:54 Is Associated with Pulmonary Alveolar Proteinosis: A Retrospective Real-World Audit
Authors: Li Mengqian , Liu Qinglin , Wang Weiwen , Jiang Lili
Published: October 2023

Background: Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (PAP) is a rare pulmonary disease characterized by abnormal accumulation of pulmonary surfactant lipids in alveoli or terminal bronchioles, leading to increased infection risk and progressive respiratory failure. Approximately more than 90% of all cases are autoimmune PAP (aPAP). Since one of the predisposing factors has been identified as genes located within the major-histocompatibility-complex region, an investigation of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) alleles associated with the risk of aPAP is warranted. Methods: We retrospectively studied 60 patients pathologically diagnosed with PAP from 2019 to 2022. Patients were divided into the aPAP group or secondary PAP (sPAP) group according to their clinical information. Qualified DNA was extracted from the paraffin-embedded tissue of 28 patients, and the PCR-sequence-based typing method was used for HLA-DRB1 genotyping. Results: A similar HLA-DRB1 allele profile (including the HLA-DRB1*08:03) between the aPAP group and sPAP group was revealed, except that HLA-DRB1*14:54, which has never been reported in aPAP patients, was only detected in the aPAP group rather than the sPAP group (19.4% vs. 0.0%, p = 0.030). Under inhaled granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor therapy, more clinical remission was observed in HLA-DRB1*14:54 carriers rather than in HLA-DRB1*08:03 carriers (80.0% vs. 57.1%). Conclusions: Our real-world study revealed for the first time that a population with HLA-DRB1*14:54 was subject to aPAP, and HLA-DRB1*14:54 might imply a response in aPAP patients to inhaled granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor in aPAP patients.
Polydopamine-Based Nanoprobes Application in Optical Biosensing
Authors: Menichetti Arianna , Mavridi-Printezi Alexandra , Mordini Dario , Montalti Marco
Published: October 2023

Polydopamine (PDA), the synthetic counterpart of melanin, is a widely investigated bio-inspired material for its chemical and photophysical properties, and in the last few years, bio-application of PDA and PDA-based materials have had a dramatic increase. In this review, we described PDA application in optical biosensing, exploring its multiple roles as a nanomaterial. In optical sensing, PDA can not only be used for its intrinsic fluorescent and photoacoustic properties as a probe: in some cases, a sample optical signal can be derived by melanin generation in situ or it can be enhanced in another material thanks to PDA modification. The various possibilities of PDA use coupled with its biocompatibility will indeed widen even more its application in optical bioimaging.
Correction: Ogrodnik et al. Exploring the Relationship between Cardiorespiratory Fitness and Executive Functioning in Adults with ADHD. Brain Sci. 2023, 13, 673
Authors: Ogrodnik Michelle , Karsan Sameena , Cirone Victoria , Heisz Jennifer J.
Published: October 2023

During the final proofreading step of this paper [...]
Creative Self-Efficacy, Cognitive Reappraisal, Positive Affect, and Career Satisfaction: A Serial Mediation Model
Authors: Oh Sunyoung , Pyo Jungmin
Published: October 2023

With a substantial body of research supporting the critical role of positive affect in improving work outcomes and enhancing career success, investigating the factors that facilitate emotion regulation strategies for fostering positive affect becomes an important research question. In this context, our study explores the association between strong creative self-efficacy and high cognitive reappraisal—an established and potent emotion regulation strategy known to increase positive affect. We propose a model wherein high levels of creative self-efficacy lead to a tendency for cognitive reappraisal, resulting in high levels of positive affect that ultimately contribute to greater career satisfaction. Our investigation, conducted with a sample of 550 adults in South Korea, examines the indirect relationship between creative self-efficacy and career satisfaction through cognitive reappraisal and, in turn, positive affect. Our findings reveal a positive association between creative self-efficacy and cognitive reappraisal. Moreover, a significant relationship is observed between creative self-efficacy and positive affect through the mediation of cognitive reappraisal. Importantly, the indirect effect of creative self-efficacy on career satisfaction is mediated through cognitive reappraisal and then positive affect. These findings not only expand our insight into the factors contributing to positive affect and career satisfaction but also underscore the valuable role of creative self-efficacy in career satisfaction.
Stabilization of Fluidic Silty Sands with Cement and Steel Slag
Authors: Gu Leilei , Deng Xianjun , Zhang Mei , Wang Shengnian , Li Bin , Ji Jiufa
Published: October 2023

Fluidic silty sand is often difficult to use directly in engineering construction because of its low strength and plasticity index. This study employed steel slag to replace part of the cement in silty sand stabilization to broaden the feasibility of resource recycling and to reduce the construction cost and carbon emissions in engineering practices. A series of indoor tests investigated the influences of the cement/steel slag ratio, initial water content, curing age, and temperature on the compressive strength of cement- and steel slag-stabilized fluidic silty sands (CSFSSs). Their stabilization mechanism was discussed via microstructural observation and spectral analysis. The results showed that the most economical cement/steel slag ratio could be 9:6, saving 40% of cement and not changing with the initial water content. The compressive strength of the CSFSSs decreased with the initial water content and increased rapidly and then slowly over the curing age. The curing temperature had a positive impact on their strength growth. The microstructure characteristics and spectral analysis showed that adding steel slag indeed affected the formation of gels in the cement-stabilized fluidic silty sands. This study could reference the application of CSFSSs in engineering practices.
Comparative Investigation of Axial Bearing Performance and Mechanism of Continuous Flight Auger Pile in Weathered Granitic Soils
Authors: Zhang Xuqun , Li Zhili , Zhang Siyuan , Sui Yaohua , Liu Chengjun , Xue Zilong , Li Zhaofeng
Published: October 2023

Axial bearing performance and mechanism of continuous flight auger (CFA) pile in weathered granitic soils, i.e., a widespread special soil in South China, were investigated by field test in this study. Load–settlement responses of four CFA piles were examined, and evolutions of shaft/base resistances were captured by ultra-weak fiber Bragg gratings (UWFBG) with a reflectivity ≤−40 dB. Performances of CFA piles were compared with those of a slurry displacement (SD) pile at the same site, thirteen pretensioned spun high-strength concrete (PHC) piles in the literature and empirical data in design code. Test results show that the ultimate bearing capacity of the CFA pile is highest among different pile types, and typically is twice that of the SD pile. Again, CFA pile produces the highest shaft resistances at 140 kPa and 153 kPa in two weathered granitic soils, while the base resistance of 3080 kPa is between those of the SD pile and the PHC pile. By field excavation, the superior mechanism of the CFA pile is suggested to avoid the formation of in-between bentonite layers and prevent preferential baseflow along fissures, both of which can weaken the soil–pile interface. Overall, this study provides fundamental data through UWFBG and explanations based on field observations which underpin the need for developing a design code specified for CFA piles in South China.
Influencing Factors on Air Conditioning Energy Consumption of Naturally Ventilated Research Buildings Based on Actual HVAC Behaviours
Authors: Wu Jiajing , Chen Shuqin , Ying Xiaoyu , Shu Jinbiao
Published: October 2023

The fixed description of HVAC behaviours leads to inaccurate prediction of air conditioning energy consumption, which in turn affects the appropriateness and effectiveness of energy conservation strategies. Based on a naturally ventilated research building located in Hangzhou, China, a stochastic prediction model reflecting actual HVAC behaviours is established based on clustering analysis and the Monte Carlo method, and it is integrated into the AC energy consumption simulation through Python programming. Then, important factors influencing AC energy consumption are clarified by importance analysis based on random forest regression, and the integrated strategies based on them are studied based on the simulation and control variable approach. As a result, the error rate between the measured and simulated AC power consumption is −5.24% and 2.56% in the heating and cooling conditions, respectively. And the relative importance and the number of important factors following the actual HVAC behaviours are remarkably different from those based on the fixed behavioural pattern. The implementation of integrated AC energy conservation strategies based on important influencing factors achieves 35.02% energy savings. Consequently, a theoretical basis for the accurate prediction of AC energy consumption and efficient implementation of energy conservation strategies is established.
Towards an Evaluation System of Disabled Individuals’ Friendly Communities from the Perspective of Inclusive Development—A Case Study in Jinan
Authors: Wen Yaqi , Li Yuyao , Yang Yang , Wang Jiang
Published: October 2023

The quality of travel for residents has improved in China’s urban renewal development, but there are still barriers to the activities of disadvantaged groups like people with disabilities in the city, including challenges with accessible travel and a lack of accessible design. All urban people should have access to services and be guaranteed equal rights, according to the inclusive development theory. This study examines the travel requirements and behavioural patterns of the barrier-free groups to safeguard the right of underprivileged groups to participate equally in the urban space. It also determines the impact of various types of urban land use and service facilities on the distribution of barrier-free facilities. An evaluation system based on the needs of the disabled group is established to evaluate the degree of barrier-free facilities in the surveyed areas, summarise the problems shown by the evaluation scores, and propose improvement strategies for the shortcomings of accessibility to residential areas and the controversy through web data crawling and a geographically weighted analysis. From the standpoint of inclusive development, the goal is to lessen the travel issues faced by underprivileged groups and to improve their capacity to take advantage of opportunities and have access to resources.
Deep Learning-Based Early Warning Score for Predicting Clinical Deterioration in General Ward Cancer Patients
Authors: Ko Ryoung-Eun , Kim Zero , Jeon Bomi , Ji Migyeong , Chung Chi Ryang , Suh Gee Young , Chung Myung Jin , Cho Baek Hwan
Published: October 2023

Background: Cancer patients who are admitted to hospitals are at high risk of short-term deterioration due to treatment-related or cancer-specific complications. A rapid response system (RRS) is initiated when patients who are deteriorating or at risk of deteriorating are identified. This study was conducted to develop a deep learning-based early warning score (EWS) for cancer patients (Can-EWS) using delta values in vital signs. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted on all oncology patients who were admitted to the general ward between 2016 and 2020. The data were divided into a training set (January 2016–December 2019) and a held-out test set (January 2020–December 2020). The primary outcome was clinical deterioration, defined as the composite of in-hospital cardiac arrest (IHCA) and unexpected intensive care unit (ICU) transfer. Results: During the study period, 19,739 cancer patients were admitted to the general wards and eligible for this study. Clinical deterioration occurred in 894 cases. IHCA and unexpected ICU transfer prevalence was 1.77 per 1000 admissions and 43.45 per 1000 admissions, respectively. We developed two models: Can-EWS V1, which used input vectors of the original five input variables, and Can-EWS V2, which used input vectors of 10 variables (including an additional five delta variables). The cross-validation performance of the clinical deterioration for Can-EWS V2 (AUROC, 0.946; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.943–0.948) was higher than that for MEWS of 5 (AUROC, 0.589; 95% CI, 0.587–0.560; p < 0.001) and Can-EWS V1 (AUROC, 0.927; 95% CI, 0.924–0.931). As a virtual prognostic study, additional validation was performed on held-out test data. The AUROC and 95% CI were 0.588 (95% CI, 0.588–0.589), 0.890 (95% CI, 0.888–0.891), and 0.898 (95% CI, 0.897–0.899), for MEWS of 5, Can-EWS V1, and the deployed model Can-EWS V2, respectively. Can-EWS V2 outperformed other approaches for specificities, positive predictive values, negative predictive values, and the number of false alarms per day at the same sensitivity level on the held-out test data. Conclusions: We have developed and validated a deep learning-based EWS for cancer patients using the original values and differences between consecutive measurements of basic vital signs. The Can-EWS has acceptable discriminatory power and sensitivity, with extremely decreased false alarms compared with MEWS.
Unveiling the Association between HPV and Pan-Cancers: A Bidirectional Two-Sample Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Sun Jianxuan , Xiang Jiacheng , An Ye , Xu Jinzhou , Xiong Yifan , Wang Shaogang , Xia Qidong
Published: October 2023

Introduction: More and more studies have focused on the associations between human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and pan-cancers. However, current evidence is largely based on retrospective studies, which are susceptible to confounding factors and do not enable the establishment of causal relationships. Methods: A bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) design was employed to thoroughly evaluate the causal relationships between HPV and 12 site-specific cancers except cervical cancer. Single nucleoside polymers (SNPs) with strong evidence from genome-wide association studies (GWAS) were selected from HPV exposure datasets and used as instrumental variables (IVs) in this study. For the MR analysis results, MR-Egger’s intercept P test, MR-PRESSO global test, Cochran’s Q test and a leave-one-out test were applied for sensitivity analysis. Using HPVTIMER, we also performed immune infiltration analyses in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) and vulval squamous cell carcinoma (VSCC) to evaluate the tumor-immune microenvironment. Results: Based on the evidence of MR analysis, our study conclusively identified HPV16 as a risk factor implicated in the development of bladder cancer, colorectal cancer, and breast cancer, while HPV18 was identified as a risk factor for prostate cancer, ovarian cancer, lung cancer and breast cancer. The MR results also showed that HPV16 may be a protective factor for prostate cancer, anal cancer, lung cancer and oropharyngeal cancer, while HPV18 may be a protective factor for vaginal cancer. Conclusion: An HPV infection may modulate the immune microenvironment and therefore has a potential inhibitory effect on the development of certain cancers. These conclusions provided new insights into the potential mechanisms of carcinogenesis and needed further research for validation.
Enhanced Sensitivity to ALDH1A3-Dependent Ferroptosis in TMZ-Resistant Glioblastoma Cells
Authors: Wu Yang , Franzmeier Sophie , Liesche-Starnecker Friederike , Schlegel Jürgen
Published: October 2023

Temozolomide (TMZ) is standard treatment for glioblastoma (GBM); nonetheless, resistance and tumor recurrence are still major problems. In addition to its association with recurrent GBM and TMZ resistance, ALDH1A3 has a role in autophagy-dependent ferroptosis activation. In this study, we treated TMZ-resistant LN229 human GBM cells with the ferroptosis inducer RSL3. Remarkably, TMZ-resistant LN229 clones were also resistant to ferroptosis induction, although lipid peroxidation was induced by RSL3. By using Western blotting, we were able to determine that ALDH1A3 was down-regulated in TMZ-resistant LN229 cells. Most intriguingly, the cell viability results showed that only those clones that up-regulated ALDH1A3 after TMZ withdrawal became re-sensitized to ferroptosis induction. The recovery of ALDH1A3 expression appeared to be regulated by EGFR-dependent PI3K pathway activation since Akt was activated only in ALDH1A3 high clones. Blocking the EGFR signaling pathway with the EGFR inhibitor AG1498 decreased the expression of ALDH1A3. These findings shed light on the potential application of RSL3 in the treatment of glioblastoma relapse.
Increased Gene Expression of C1orf74 Is Associated with Poor Prognosis in Cervical Cancer
Authors: Parida Preetiparna , Lewis Shirley , Sharan Krishna , Kamal Mehta Vedant , Kumar Naveena A. N. , Godkhindi Vishwapriya M. , Varambally Sooryanarayana , Rangnekar Vivek M. , Rao Mahadev , Damerla Rama Rao
Published: October 2023

C1orf74, also known as URCL4, has been reported to have higher expression and be associated with poor prognosis in lung adenocarcinoma patients, and its role in regulation of the EGFR/AKT/mTORC1 pathway has been recently elucidated. In the current study, we used publicly available data and experimental validation of C1orf74 gene expression and its association with prognosis in cervical cancer patients. qRT-PCR was performed using RNA from cervical cancer cell lines and twenty-five cervical cancer patients. Data from TNMplot revealed that mRNA expression of the C1orf74 gene in primary tumor tissues, as well as metastatic tissues from cervical cancer patients, was significantly higher compared to normal cervical tissues. HPV-positive tumors had higher expression of this gene compared to HPV-negative tumors. qPCR analysis also demonstrated higher expression of C1orf74 in HPV-positive cervical cancer cell lines and most cervical cancer patients. The promoter methylation levels of the C1orf74 gene in cervical cancer tissues were lower compared to normal cervical tissues (p < 0.05). Collectively, our study indicates that higher expression of the C1orf74 gene caused by hypomethylation of its promoter is associated with poor overall survival in cervical cancer patients. Thus, C1orf74 is a novel prognostic marker in cervical cancer.
Signaling Pathways and Therapeutic Strategies in Advanced Basal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Vallini Giulia , Calabrese Laura , Canino Costanza , Trovato Emanuele , Gentileschi Stefano , Rubegni Pietro , Tognetti Linda
Published: October 2023

Non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSCs) are the most common human neoplasms world-wide. In detail, basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most frequent malignancy in the fair-skinned population. The incidence of BCC remains difficult to assess due to the poor registration practice; however, it has been increasing in the last few years. Approximately, 85% of sporadic BCCs carry mutations in Hedgehog pathway genes, especially in PTCH, SUFU and SMO genes, which lead to the aberrant activation of GLI transcriptional factors, typically silent in cells of adult individuals. The management of advanced BCC (aBCC), both metastatic (mBCC) and locally advanced BCC (laBCC), not candidates for surgical excision or radiotherapy, remains challenging. The discovery of mutations in the Hh signaling pathway has paved the way for the development of Hh pathway inhibiting agents, such as vismodegib and sonidegib, which have represented a breakthrough in the aBCC management. However, the use of these agents is limited by the frequent occurrence of adverse events or the development of drug resistance. In this review, we thoroughly describe the current knowledge regarding the available options for the pharmacological management of aBCCs and provide a forward-looking update on novel therapeutic strategies that could enrich the therapeutic armamentarium of BCC in the near future.
Strengths and Difficulties among Adolescent with and without Specific Learning Disorders (SLD)
Authors: Piko Bettina F. , Dudok Réka
Published: October 2023

Specific Learning Disorders (SLD) have become a major concern in modern societies. It is essential to detect their emotional, behavioral and social consequences as early as childhood. The aim of this study is to examine a set of strengths and difficulties and compare them between students with and without SLD. Participants in this study were adolescents aged 11–18 years from Budapest and villages of its Metropolitan area (Hungary) (N = 276, mean age = 13.6 years, SD = 1.8, 54.7% boys). Due to multistage sampling, a nearly equal number of students had SLD or not. In addition to sociodemographics, the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), Satisfaction With Life Scale and the Proactive Coping Inventory were included in the survey, and t-test, correlation and logistic regression analysis were applied in statistical analyses. Our findings suggest that in early adolescence (ages 11–14 years), conduct and peer problems, in late adolescence (ages 15–18 years), emotional problems, highlighted SLD. In terms of strengths, prosocial behavior in children with SLD may compensate difficulties, especially at a younger age. Students from lower SES families and those having parents with a lower educational level are more likely to have a diagnosis of SLD. Teachers and special educators should take care of improving the adolescents’ prosociality, social and coping skills and listening to emotional, conduct and peer problems in those with SLD.
Assessing Obesogenic School Environments in Sibiu County, Romania: Adapting the ISCOLE School Environment Questionnaire
Authors: Negrea Mihai Octavian , Negrea Gabriel Octavian , Săndulescu Gabriela , Neamtu Bogdan , Costea Raluca Maria , Teodoru Minodora , Cipăian Călin Remus , Solomon Adelaida , Popa Mirela Livia , Domnariu Carmen Daniela
Published: October 2023

The impact of the school environment on childhood weight status has garnered significant attention in recent years. This study aimed to adapt and validate the International Study of Childhood Obesity, Lifestyle and the Environment (ISCOLE) School and Environment questionnaire in order to assess the potential obesogenic impact of school environments in Sibiu County, Romania. The ISCOLE questionnaire was chosen for its rigorous methodology. It was derived from a comprehensive study conducted across 12 countries which aimed to capture multifaceted influences on childhood weight while emphasizing educational settings in the collection of data. To guide the translation and adaptation of the questionnaire, a multidisciplinary committee was assembled which comprised experts in teaching and school administration to ensure target responder relevance, experts in clinical research to ensure methodological robustness, experts in language adaptation to preserve the original intent of the survey, and experts in public health to steer the interpretation of the results, with potential policy implications. The data were analyzed by distinguishing between urban and rural settings, and a two-step cluster analysis was implemented to identify potential intervention targets. To assess the validity of the adapted tool, the questionnaire’s construct validity and internal consistency were explored. A response rate of 71.2% of the approached schools in Sibiu County was achieved. Of the 84 responding school representatives, 37 (44%) were from a rural setting. The rural schools had significantly more limited access to gymnasiums, secured lockers, showers, and bicycle racks, and exhibited more serious problems regarding the inadequate disposal of garbage in the school vicinity. A two-step cluster analysis revealed distinct school categories, providing opportunities for public policy interventions. One of these primarily concerned rural schools with limited infrastructure but with proactive practices and policies which were termed “unable but willing”; on the opposing spectrum, the category “able but unwilling” mainly comprised urban schools which had available facilities but lacked local proactive initiatives. The findings emphasize the urgent need for targeted measures to bridge these discrepancies by investing in infrastructure in rural schools and promoting active school practices and policies in urban settings. The assessment of obesogenic school environments in Sibiu County provides a pilot model for broader applications due to the diverse school landscape and supportive local authorities. The results, which were achieved using low-cost methods, can guide future educational policies, health promotion initiatives, and preventive interventions.
Adsorption of Fragrance Capsules onto Cellulose Nano- and Micro-Cellulose Fibers in Presence of Guar Biopolymers
Authors: Oikonomou Evdokia K. , Berret Jean-François
Published: October 2023

Fabric softeners are formulated to enhance textile softness and impart a pleasant scent. One of the most efficient technologies for controlled fragrance delivery onto fabrics involves encapsulating scent molecules in polymer capsules. Here, we investigate the adsorption of anionic fragrance capsules on cotton fabrics with the goal of reducing the reliance on palm-oil-derived surfactants. First, we employ 200 nm cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) as a reliable model for cotton fibers. CNC enables us to explore interactions among various softener components, including surfactants, guar biopolymers, and fragrances, using physical chemistry techniques applied to bulk dispersions. The primary objective is to elucidate the role of surfactant vesicles, the primary ingredient in textile conditioners, in the association between fragrance capsules and cotton. Secondly, we examine the influence of biopolymers present in a newly developed environmentally friendly softener on this association. Our findings demonstrate that anionic fragrance capsules are deposited onto cotton microfibers in the presence of either cationic surfactants or guar biopolymers, driven by electrostatic interactions. Scanning electron microscopy confirms capsule adsorption on textile fibers when these cationic ingredients are present. Understanding the interaction mechanisms between fragrance capsules and cotton fabrics, as well as the roles played by other softener components, can facilitate the design of more efficient and sustainable formulations.
Progress in Fruit and Vegetable Preservation: Plant-Based Nanoemulsion Coatings and Their Evolving Trends
Authors: Cvanić Teodora , Šovljanski Olja , Popović Senka , Erceg Tamara , Vulić Jelena , Čanadanović-Brunet Jasna , Ćetković Gordana , Travičić Vanja
Published: October 2023

Innovative technologies in the food industry are focused on integrated approaches to improve the sustainability of the food system that cover the whole supply chain. Huge post-harvest losses of fruits and vegetables and the use of synthetic chemical preservatives for this purpose are a matter of grave concern for any country. High demands for safe and healthy food have contributed to maximizing efforts to investigate post-harvest technology. Since fruits and vegetables are extremely perishable foods, they require the best post-harvest methods to maintain their storage stability and increase shelf-life. A solution for this emerging problem was found in the application of nanoemulsion edible coatings, described as thin-layered edible coatings or films with the possibility to provide additional benefits such as antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. These coatings provide protection against moisture loss, respiration, gaseous exchange, microbial spoilage, etc., offering promising results to safeguard the physicochemical during the time of storage and transportation of fruits and vegetables. This review summarizes the newest studies of nanoemulsion coatings on fresh products, providing valuable information regarding preparation and application methods and applied polymers and bioactives. Moreover, it gives a detailed description of the influence of nanoemulsion coating application (shelf-life, weight loss, colour, etc.) on fresh fruits and vegetables during storage.
Reliability Analysis of Coating Material on Polyvinylidene Fluoride Layers Used in Piezoelectric Vibration Energy Harvesting Device
Authors: Ravikumar Chandana , Markevicius Vytautas
Published: October 2023

Piezoelectric energy harvesters operate by converting mechanical vibrations or strains into electrical energy. From recent research, it is understood that the choice of coating material for piezoelectric energy harvesters is a critical consideration that impacts the device’s performance, durability, and compatibility with the intended application. Selecting the right coating material involves balancing the electrical, mechanical, and environmental requirements to optimize energy conversion and reliability. There are methods like the thermocycling process that can provide an accelerated ageing of the energy harvester in order to conduct a reliability assessment. The thermocycling process was carried out for 450 h on six samples of piezoelectric cantilever-type energy harvesters made of copper–nickel- and aluminum-coated PVDF (Polyvinylidene fluoride) piezoelectric material. The effect of aluminum and copper–nickel coating on PVDF piezoelectric material before and after the aging process was studied. The numerical results of the generated output voltage, surface resistance, and capacitance values measured before and after the accelerated aging process are presented in this study. This work also discusses the structure of the developed energy harvester, thermocycling experiment setup, and methodology of conducting the ageing process. It aims to provide a conclusion on the suitability of the PVDF metal coating material, the type of conductive adhesive to be used in order to seal the PVDF material to the harvester core, improvements in the structural design and selection of materials to reduce mechanical fatigue and ensure even stress distribution, and minimizing points of stress concentration, to help mitigate piezoelectric material delamination risks.
Optimization of Clove Oil Nanoemulsions: Evaluation of Antioxidant, Antimicrobial, and Anticancer Properties
Authors: Haro-González José Nabor , Schlienger de Alba Brenda Nathalie , Martínez-Velázquez Moisés , Castillo-Herrera Gustavo Adolfo , Espinosa-Andrews Hugo
Published: October 2023

Clove essential oil is traditionally used as an anesthetic, analgesic, or insecticide, and recently, its applications as an antimicrobial, antioxidant, or anticancer agent have been explored. Nanoemulsions are thermodynamically unstable dispersions (d < 100 nm) produced by mixing two immiscible phases, which, in many cases, improve the stability and biological activities of functional ingredients for pharmaceutical, cosmetic, or food applications. This research optimized the formation of clove essential oil nanoemulsions by employing response surface methodology. The surfactant concentration was minimized by modifying the percentage of clove oil (0–100%), surfactant content (1–4%), and oil phase content (0–20%). In the optimum conditions, a nanoemulsion (93.19 ± 3.92 nm) was produced using 1.0% surfactant and 2.5% oil phase of which 50.7% was clove essential oil. The optimized nanoemulsion was stable in rapid stability tests (centrifugation, freezing–thawing, and heating–cooling), but its average droplet size increased during storage at different temperatures. The nanoemulsion contains a phenolic content equivalent to 736 mg gallic acid/mL. However, the antioxidant capacity of the essential oil (IC50 = 0.78 µg/mL) was dismissed in the nanoemulsion (IC50 = 2.43 µg/mL). The antimicrobial activity of the nanoemulsion showed strain–dependent behavior with MIC ranging from 0.0468 to 0.75 mg/mL, where E. coli and S. typhimurium were the most susceptible pathogenic bacteria. Finally, nanoencapsulation of clove oil showed higher in vitro cytotoxic activity against Caco–2 cancer cells (227 μg/mL) than free clove essential oil (283 μg/mL), but nanoemulsion (306 μg/mL) was less effective than oil (231 μg/mL) in the HT–29 line. This research shows the potential of clove essential oil nanoemulsions for developing biological therapies to treat diseases.
BigDaM: Efficient Big Data Management and Interoperability Middleware for Seaports as Critical Infrastructures
Authors: Nikolakopoulos Anastasios , Julian Segui Matilde , Pellicer Andreu Belsa , Kefalogiannis Michalis , Gizelis Christos-Antonios , Marinakis Achilleas , Nestorakis Konstantinos , Varvarigou Theodora
Published: October 2023

Over the last few years, the European Union (EU) has placed significant emphasis on the interoperability of critical infrastructures (CIs). One of the main CI transportation infrastructures are ports. The control systems managing such infrastructures are constantly evolving and handle diverse sets of people, data, and processes. Additionally, interdependencies among different infrastructures can lead to discrepancies in data models that propagate and intensify across interconnected systems. This article introduces “BigDaM”, a Big Data Management framework for critical infrastructures. It is a cutting-edge data model that adheres to the latest technological standards and aims to consolidate APIs and services within highly complex CI infrastructures. Our approach takes a bottom-up perspective, treating each service interconnection as an autonomous entity that must align with the proposed common vocabulary and data model. By injecting strict guidelines into the service/component development’s lifecycle, we explicitly promote interoperability among the services within critical infrastructure ecosystems. This approach facilitates the exchange and reuse of data from a shared repository among developers, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and large vendors. Business challenges have also been taken into account, in order to link the generated data assets of CIs with the business world. The complete framework has been tested in the main EU ports, part of the transportation sector of CIs. Performance evaluation and the aforementioned testing is also being analyzed, highlighting the capabilities of the proposed approach.