bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interplay between the Chaperone System and Gut Microbiota Dysbiosis in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Pathogenesis: Is Molecular Mimicry the Missing Link between Those Two Factors?
Authors: Vitale Alessandra Maria , Paladino Letizia , Caruso Bavisotto Celeste , Barone Rosario , Rappa Francesca , Conway de Macario Everly , Cappello Francesco , Macario Alberto J. L. , Marino Gammazza Antonella
Published: May 2024

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a multifactorial autoimmune disease characterized by self-immune tolerance breakdown and the production of autoantibodies, causing the deposition of immune complexes and triggering inflammation and immune-mediated damage. SLE pathogenesis involves genetic predisposition and a combination of environmental factors. Clinical manifestations are variable, making an early diagnosis challenging. Heat shock proteins (Hsps), belonging to the chaperone system, interact with the immune system, acting as pro-inflammatory factors, autoantigens, as well as immune tolerance promoters. Increased levels of some Hsps and the production of autoantibodies against them are correlated with SLE onset and progression. The production of these autoantibodies has been attributed to molecular mimicry, occurring upon viral and bacterial infections, since they are evolutionary highly conserved. Gut microbiota dysbiosis has been associated with the occurrence and severity of SLE. Numerous findings suggest that proteins and metabolites of commensal bacteria can mimic autoantigens, inducing autoimmunity, because of molecular mimicry. Here, we propose that shared epitopes between human Hsps and those of gut commensal bacteria cause the production of anti-Hsp autoantibodies that cross-react with human molecules, contributing to SLE pathogenesis. Thus, the involvement of the chaperone system, gut microbiota dysbiosis, and molecular mimicry in SLE ought to be coordinately studied.
Immunophenotypic but Not Genetic Changes Reclassify the Majority of Relapsed/Refractory Pediatric Cases of Early T-Cell Precursor Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Demina Irina , Dagestani Aya , Borkovskaia Aleksandra , Semchenkova Alexandra , Soldatkina Olga , Kashpor Svetlana , Olshanskaya Yulia , Roumiantseva Julia , Karachunskiy Alexander , Novichkova Galina , Maschan Michael , Zerkalenkova Elena , Popov Alexander
Published: May 2024

Early T-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ETP-ALL) develops from very early cells with the potential for both T-cell and myeloid differentiation. The ambiguous nature of leukemic blasts in ETP-ALL may lead to immunophenotypic alterations at relapse. Here, we address immunophenotypic alterations and related classification issues, as well as genetic features of relapsed pediatric ETP-ALL. Between 2017 and 2022, 7518 patients were diagnosed with acute leukemia (AL). In addition to conventional immunophenotyping, karyotyping, and FISH studies, we performed next-generation sequencing of the T-cell receptor clonal repertoire and reverse transcription PCR and RNA sequencing for patients with ETP-ALL at both initial diagnosis and relapse. Among a total of 534 patients diagnosed with T-cell ALL (7.1%), 60 had ETP-ALL (11.2%). Ten patients with ETP-ALL experienced relapse or progression on therapy (16.7%), with a median time to event of 5 months (ranging from two weeks to 5 years). Most relapses were classified as AL of ambiguous lineage (n = 5) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML) (n = 4). Major genetic markers of leukemic cells remained unchanged at relapse. Of the patients with relapse, four had polyclonal leukemic populations and a relapse with AML or bilineal mixed-phenotype AL (MPAL). Three patients had clonal TRD rearrangements and relapse with AML, undifferentiated AL, or retention of the ETP-ALL phenotype. ETP-ALL relapse requires careful clinical and laboratory diagnosis. Treatment decisions should rely mainly on initial examination data, taking into account both immunophenotypic and molecular/genetic characteristics.
Multi-Omics Analysis of a Chromosome Segment Substitution Line Reveals a New Regulation Network for Soybean Seed Storage Profile
Authors: Jong Cholnam , Yu Zhenhai , Zhang Yu , Choe Kyongho , Uh Songrok , Kim Kibong , Jong Chol , Cha Jinmyong , Kim Myongguk , Kim Yunchol , Han Xue , Yang Mingliang , Xu Chang , Hu Limin , Chen Qingshan , Liu Chunyan , Qi Zhaoming
Published: May 2024

Soybean, a major source of oil and protein, has seen an annual increase in consumption when used in soybean-derived products and the broadening of its cultivation range. The demand for soybean necessitates a better understanding of the regulatory networks driving storage protein accumulation and oil biosynthesis to broaden its positive impact on human health. In this study, we selected a chromosome segment substitution line (CSSL) with high protein and low oil contents to investigate the underlying effect of donor introgression on seed storage through multi-omics analysis. In total, 1479 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), 82 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs), and 34 differentially expressed metabolites (DEMs) were identified in the CSSL compared to the recurrent parent. Based on Gene Ontology (GO) term analysis and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment (KEGG), integrated analysis indicated that 31 DEGs, 24 DEPs, and 13 DEMs were related to seed storage functionality. Integrated analysis further showed a significant decrease in the contents of the seed storage lipids LysoPG 16:0 and LysoPC 18:4 as well as an increase in the contents of organic acids such as L-malic acid. Taken together, these results offer new insights into the molecular mechanisms of seed storage and provide guidance for the molecular breeding of new favorable soybean varieties.
Cloning, Expression, Purification, and Characterization of Lactate Dehydrogenase from Plasmodium knowlesi: A Zoonotic Malaria Parasite
Authors: Choi Jae-Won , Choi Min-Ji , Kim Yeon-Jun , Kim So Yeon
Published: May 2024

Plasmodium knowlesi is the only Plasmodium that causes zoonotic disease among the Plasmodium that cause infection in humans. It is fatal due to its short asexual growth cycle within 24 h. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), an enzyme that catalyzes the final step of glycolysis, is a biomarker for diagnosing infection by Plasmodium spp. parasite. Therefore, this study aimed to efficiently produce the soluble form of P. knowlesi LDH (PkLDH) using a bacterial expression system for studying malaria caused by P. knowlesi. Recombinant pET-21a(+)-PkLDH plasmid was constructed by inserting the PkLDH gene into a pET-21a(+) expression vector. Subsequently, the recombinant plasmid was inserted into the protein-expressing Escherichia coli Rosetta(DE3) strain, and the optimal conditions for overexpression of the PkLDH protein were established using this strain. We obtained a yield of 52.0 mg/L PkLDH from the Rosetta(DE3) strain and confirmed an activity of 483.9 U/mg through experiments. This methodology for high-efficiency PkLDH production can be utilized for the development of diagnostic methods and drug candidates for distinguishing malaria caused by P. knowlesi.
Rabies Virus Infection Causes Pyroptosis of Neuronal Cells
Authors: Yu Dongling , Jin Rong , Liu Jundan , Zhang Chuanliang , Duan Chenxing , Luo Xi , Yang Wenhao , Liu Cheng , Liang Jingjing , Li Xiaoning , Luo Tingrong
Published: May 2024

Rabies virus (RABV) is a neurotropic virus that causes fatal neurological disease, raising serious public health issues and attracting extensive attention in society. To elucidate the molecular mechanism of RABV-induced neuronal damage, we used hematoxylin–eosin staining, transmission electron microscopy, transcriptomics analysis, and immune response factor testing to investigate RABV-infected neurons. We successfully isolated the neurons from murine brains. The specificity of the isolated neurons was identified by a monoclonal antibody, and the viability of the neurons was 83.53–95.0%. We confirmed that RABV infection induced serious damage to the neurons according to histochemistry and transmission electron microscope (TEM) scanning. In addition, the transcriptomics analysis suggested that multiple genes related to the pyroptosis pathway were significantly upregulated, including gasdermin D (Gsdmd), Nlrp3, caspase-1, and IL-1β, as well as the chemokine genes Ccl2, Ccl3, Ccl4, Ccl5, Ccl7, Ccl12, and Cxcl10. We next verified this finding in the brains of mice infected with the rRC-HL, GX074, and challenge virus standard strain-24 (CVS-24) strains of RABV. Importantly, we found that the expression level of the Gsdmd protein was significantly upregulated in the neurons infected with different RABV strains and ranged from 691.1 to 5764.96 pg/mL, while the basal level of mock-infected neurons was less than 100 pg/mL. Taken together, our findings suggest that Gsdmd-induced pyroptosis is involved in the neuron damage caused by RABV infection.
Characterization of Skin Interfollicular Stem Cells and Early Transit Amplifying Cells during the Transition from Infants to Young Children
Authors: Quadri Marika , Baudouin Caroline , Lotti Roberta , Palazzo Elisabetta , Campanini Letizia , Bernard François-Xavier , Bellemere Gaëlle , Pincelli Carlo , Marconi Alessandra
Published: May 2024

In the interfollicular epidermis, keratinocyte stem cells (KSC) generate a short-lived population of transit amplifying (TA) cells that undergo terminal differentiation after several cell divisions. Recently, we isolated and characterized a highly proliferative keratinocyte cell population, named “early” TA (ETA) cell, representing the first KSC progenitor with exclusive features. This work aims to evaluate epidermis, with a focus on KSC and ETA cells, during transition from infancy to childhood. Reconstructed human epidermis (RHE) generated from infant keratinocytes is more damaged by UV irradiation, as compared to RHE from young children. Moreover, the expression of several differentiation and barrier genes increases with age, while the expression of genes related to stemness is reduced from infancy to childhood. The proliferation rate of KSC and ETA cells is higher in cells derived from infants’ skin samples than of those derived from young children, as well as the capacity of forming colonies is more pronounced in KSC derived from infants than from young children’s skin samples. Finally, infants-KSC show the greatest regenerative capacity in skin equivalents, while young children ETA cells express higher levels of differentiation markers, as compared to infants-ETA. KSC and ETA cells undergo substantial changes during transition from infancy to childhood. The study presents a novel insight into pediatric skin, and sheds light on the correlation between age and structural maturation of the skin.
PA200-Mediated Proteasomal Protein Degradation and Regulation of Cellular Senescence
Authors: Wen Pei , Sun Yan , Jiang Tian-Xia , Qiu Xiao-Bo
Published: May 2024

Cellular senescence is closely related to DNA damage, proteasome inactivity, histone loss, epigenetic alterations, and tumorigenesis. The mammalian proteasome activator PA200 (also referred to as PSME4) or its yeast ortholog Blm10 promotes the acetylation-dependent degradation of the core histones during transcription, DNA repair, and spermatogenesis. According to recent studies, PA200 plays an important role in senescence, probably because of its role in promoting the degradation of the core histones. Loss of PA200 or Blm10 is a major cause of the decrease in proteasome activity during senescence. In this paper, recent research progress on the association of PA200 with cellular senescence is summarized, and the potential of PA200 to serve as a therapeutic target in age-related diseases is discussed.
Evaluation of Polyphenols Synthesized in Mature Seeds of Common Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) Advanced Mutant Lines
Authors: Yaneva Teodora G. , Wiczkowski Wieslaw , Marchev Andrey S. , Iserliyska Dida , Georgiev Milen I. , Tomlekova Nasya B.
Published: May 2024

This study aimed to investigate the availability of flavonoids, anthocyanins, and phenolic acids in mutant bean seeds, focusing on M7 mutant lines, and their corresponding initial and local cultivars. HPLC-DAD-MS/MS and HPLC-MS/MS were used to analyze twenty-eight genotypes of common bean. The obtained results suggest that the mutations resulted in four newly synthesized anthocyanins in the mutant bean seeds, namely, delphinidin 3-O-glucoside, cyanidin 3-O-glucoside, pelargonidin 3-O-glucoside, and petunidin 3-O-glucoside, in 20 accessions with colored seed shapes out of the total of 28. Importantly, the initial cultivar with white seeds, as well as the mutant white seeds, did not contain anthocyanins. The mutant lines were classified into groups based on their colors as novel qualitative characteristics. Five phenolic acids were further quantified: ferulic, p-coumaric, caffeic, sinapic, and traces of chlorogenic acids. Flavonoids were represented by epicatechin, quercetin, and luteolin, and their concentrations in the mutant genotypes were several-fold superior compared to those of the initial cultivar. All mutant lines exhibited higher concentrations of phenolic acids and flavonoids. These findings contribute to the understanding of the genetics and biochemistry of phenolic accumulation and anthocyanin production in common bean seeds, which is relevant to health benefits and might have implications for common bean breeding programs and food security efforts.
Editorial for the IJMS Special Issue on “Neurodevelopmental Disorders: From Epigenetic Basis to Therapeutic Perspectives”
Authors: Zappella Miriam , Sacco Roberto , Micera Alessandra
Published: May 2024

In this Special Issue, we focus on the complex mechanisms underlying neurodevelopmental disorders (as delineated in the DSM-5), which are a group of neurological disorders that begin in childhood but significantly impact adult life [...]
Deciphering the Complex Immunopathogenesis of Alopecia Areata
Authors: Šutić Udović Ingrid , Hlača Nika , Massari Larisa Prpić , Brajac Ines , Kaštelan Marija , Vičić Marijana
Published: May 2024

Alopecia areata (AA) is an autoimmune-mediated disorder in which the proximal hair follicle (HF) attack results in non-scarring partial to total scalp or body hair loss. Despite the growing knowledge about AA, its exact cause still needs to be understood. However, immunity and genetic factors are affirmed to be critical in AA development. While the genome-wide association studies proved the innate and acquired immunity involvement, AA mouse models implicated the IFN-γ- and cytotoxic CD8+ T-cell-mediated immune response as the main drivers of disease pathogenesis. The AA hair loss is caused by T-cell-mediated inflammation in the HF area, disturbing its function and disrupting the hair growth cycle without destroying the follicle. Thus, the loss of HF immune privilege, autoimmune HF destruction mediated by cytotoxic mechanisms, and the upregulation of inflammatory pathways play a crucial role. AA is associated with concurrent systemic and autoimmune disorders such as atopic dermatitis, vitiligo, psoriasis, and thyroiditis. Likewise, the patient’s quality of life (QoL) is significantly impaired by morphologic disfigurement caused by the illness. The patients experience a negative impact on psychological well-being and self-esteem and may be more likely to suffer from psychiatric comorbidities. This manuscript aims to present the latest knowledge on the pathogenesis of AA, which involves genetic, epigenetic, immunological, and environmental factors, with a particular emphasis on immunopathogenesis.
Valorization of Cork and High-Density Polyethylene and Polypropylene Wastes in Cork–Plastic Composites: Their Morphology, Mechanical Performance, and Fire Properties
Authors: Petlitckaia Svetlana , Tihay-Felicelli Virginie , Ferry Laurent , Buonomo Sylvain , Luciani Camille , Quilichini Yann , Santoni Paul-Antoine , Pereira Elisabeth , Barboni Toussaint
Published: May 2024

The recycling of waste materials is a way of limiting over-consumption and optimizing the value of resources. Within the framework of a circular economy, this can be applied to post-consumer plastic wastes, but also to biobased by-products. Hence, this work deals with the design of composite materials by combining recycled high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and polypropylene (PP) coming from bottle caps and virgin cork of insufficient quality for cork stoppers. Different fractions (0, 5, 10, 15, and 20 wt%) of virgin cork were incorporated into recycled polymers (HDPEr and PPr). These composites were prepared without a coupling agent or fire retardant. The morphology and mechanical properties of the different conditionings were studied and compared. The thermal decomposition and the fire behavior of the composites were also investigated. Microscopy revealed the poor adhesion between the cork particles and polymer matrices. However, this limited interaction affected only the tensile strength of the PPr composites, while that of the HDPEr composites remained almost constant. The addition of cork was shown to reduce the time to ignition, but also to promote charring and reduce the heat released during the composite’s combustion. The feasibility of composites based on cork and HDPEr/PPr waste opens the way for their reuse.
Performance and Life Cycle Assessment of Composites Reinforced with Natural Fibers and End-of-Life Textiles
Authors: Arya Mina , Skrifvars Mikael , Khalili Pooria
Published: May 2024

The growing need for materials that are eco-friendly and sustainable in the industrial sector has shifted focus from synthetic fossil to natural fibers, alongside the utilization of recycled polymer textiles. This research introduces a novel method for using end-of-life textiles, such as polyester and polyamide fabrics, in the production of composite materials, aiming to lessen textile waste and enhance material longevity. The mechanical attributes of flax fabric (FF), flax–recycled polyamide fabric (F/RPA), and flax–recycled polyester fabric (F/RPES) composite laminates are assessed through tensile, flexural, interlaminar shear, and Charpy impact tests. The study revealed that the addition of end-of-life synthetic fibers improves tensile strength, while the trend in modulus values suggests that flax provides a high degree of stiffness to the composites, which is moderated by the addition of synthetic fibers. This effect is consistent across both tensile and flexural testing, although the impact on stiffness is more significant in bending. The inclusion of polyester fibers in the composite laminate resulted in significant enhancements, with an 11.1% increase in interlaminar shear maximum force, a 17.4% improvement in interlaminar shear strength, and a 67.1% rise in un-notch impact energy, compared to composites made with only flax fiber (FF). The microscopic examination uncovered the internal structure and demonstrated a clear, strong bond between the polyester and polyamide fiber layers with the flax fibers. Additionally, the life cycle assessment revealed that the F/RPES composite had less environmental impact than FF and F/RPA in all 18 categories analyzed. This indicates that the environmental footprint of producing F/RPES is smaller than that of both FF and F/RPA.
Methanolic Extract and Brominated Compound from the Brazilian Marine Sponge Aplysina fulva Are Neuroprotective and Modulate Inflammatory Profile of Microglia
Authors: Nunes Catarina de Jesus , Santos Cinthia Cristina , Soares Erica Novaes , Lima Irlã Santos , Alves Uesley Vieira , Lanna Emílio , Batista Ronan , do Nascimento Ravena Pereira , Costa Silvia Lima
Published: May 2024

Neurodegenerative diseases involve neuroinflammation and a loss of neurons, leading to disability and death. Hence, the research into new therapies has been focused on the modulation of the inflammatory response mainly by microglia/macrophages. The extracts and metabolites of marine sponges have been presented as anti-inflammatory. This study evaluated the toxicity of an extract and purified compound from the Brazilian marine sponge Aplysina fulva as well as its neuroprotection against inflammatory damage associated with the modulation of microglia response. PC12 neuronal cells and neonatal rat microglia were treated with the methanolic extract of A. fulva (AF-MeOH, 0.1–200 μg/mL) or with its purified dimethyl ketal of 3,5-dibromoverongiaquinol (AF-H1, 0.1–100 μM). Cytotoxicity was determined by MTT tetrazolium, Trypan blue, and propidium iodide; microglia were also treated with the conditioned medium (CM) from PC12 cells in different conditions. The microglia phenotype was determined by the expression of Iba-1 and CD68. AF-MeOH and AF-H1 were not toxic to PC12 or the microglia. Inflammatory damage with Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 5 μg/mL) was not observed in the PC12 cells treated with AF-MeOH (1–10 μg/mL) or AF-H1 (1–10 μM). Microglia subjected to the CM from PC12 cells treated with LPS and AF-MeOH or AF-H1 showed the control phenotype-like (multipolar, low-CD68), highlighting the anti-neuroinflammatory and neuroprotective effect of components of this marine sponge.
Manual Therapy of Dysphagia in a Patient with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A Case Report
Authors: De Marchi Ilaria , Buffone Francesca , Mauro Alessandro , Bruini Irene , Vismara Luca
Published: May 2024

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an incurable rare neurodegenerative condition, with 45% of cases showing the symptom of dysphagia; its clinical signs are atrophy, weakness, and fasciculations of the facial muscles, tongue, and pharynx. Furthermore, dysphagia is the main cause of aspiration pneumonia. The traditional treatment for dysphagia varies based on the patient’s difficulty of swallowing. The initial phase consists of dietary consistency adjustments, progressing to alternatives like nasogastric tubes or percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) in advanced stages. Osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) is a complementary ‘hands-on’ approach that has already shown positive results as an add-on therapy in various health conditions. This study is a case report of a man diagnosed with ALS with initial dysphagia, managed with a protocol that extraordinarily included OMT. The patient showed somatic dysfunctions in the mediastinal region, upper cervical region, and occipital area which are all anatomically related to the nervous system, especially the glossopharyngeal reflex. At the end of the rehabilitation protocol, there was a reduction in the swallowing problems measured with Strand Scale and swallowing tests, and the patient reported an improved psycho-physical well-being assessed with the Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Assessment Questionnaire (ALSAQ-40). Instead, the neurological function measured with ALSFRS-S remained stable. Although the nature of this study design prevents any causal assumption, the positive results should lead to future randomized controlled trials to assess the effectiveness of OMT as an adjunctive therapeutic proposal to improve the health of ALS patients.
Investigating the Influence of Froth Image Attributes on Clean Coal Ash Content: A Novel Hybrid Model Employing Deep Learning and Computer Vision Techniques for Prediction Exploration
Authors: Lu Fucheng , Liu Na , Liu Haizeng
Published: May 2024

In froth flotation, one of the pivotal metrics employed to evaluate the flotation efficacy is the clean ash content, given its widely acknowledged status as a paramount gauge of coal quality. Leveraging deep learning and computer vision, our study achieved the dynamic recognition of coal flotation froth, a key element for predicting and controlling the ash content in coal concentrate. A comprehensive dataset, assembled from 90 froth flotation videos, provided 16,200 images for analysis. These images revealed key froth characteristics including bubble diameter, quantity, brightness, and bursting rate. We employed Keras to build a comprehensive deep neural network model, incorporating multiple features and mixed data inputs, and subsequently trained it with a rigorous 10-fold cross-validation strategy. Our model was evaluated using robust metrics including the mean squared error, mean absolute error, and root mean squared error, demonstrating a high precision with respective values of 0.003017%, 0.053385%, and 0.042640%. With this innovative approach, our work significantly enhances the accuracy of ash content prediction and provides an important breakthrough for the intelligent advancement and efficiency of froth flotation processes in the coal industry.
The Freehand Technique: The Ability of the Human Eye to Identify Implant Sites on the Patient
Authors: Cumbo Enzo , Gallina Giuseppe , Messina Pietro , Caradonna Luigi , Scardina Giuseppe Alessandro
Published: May 2024

In implantology, among the key choices, to obtain predictable results, it is essential to establish, using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), the bone site and where to insert the implants; during the surgical phase, these sites must be identified on the oral mucosa. Surgical templates are a valid aid, especially in complex cases which require the insertion of more than three or four implants. In cases of a single implant, on the other hand, surgical guides are rarely used, and the implant is often inserted freehand; therefore, the identification of the implant site on the oral mucosa (after choosing the location on the CBCT) is more difficult. For this reason, the clinician uses the teeth in the arch as a reference. This study evaluates the ability of the human eye to identify, on the oral mucosa, where the implant collars will be positioned, the position of which has previously been chosen on the CBCT, in cases where the hands-free surgical technique (without surgical guides) is used. The verification of this precision is carried out using particular thermo-printed templates which contain radiopaque metal spheres. The results show that, in the freehand technique, it is difficult to precisely identify the implant sites (chosen via X-ray) on the mucosa, especially when they are far from natural teeth adjacent to the edentulous area. In case of monoedentulism, the freehand implant technique seems to be applicable by expert implantologists with a reduced risk of error; in fact, clinical experience helps to find the correct correspondence between the implant site chosen on the CBCT and its identification on the mucosa. The level of experience is fundamental in the clinician’s decision about whether or not to use surgical guides; in fact, doctors with little experience should use surgical guides even in the simplest cases to reduce the risk of error.
Time-Optimal Trajectory Planning and Tracking for Autonomous Vehicles
Authors: Li Jun-Ting , Chen Chih-Keng , Ren Hongbin
Published: May 2024

This article presents a hierarchical control framework for autonomous vehicle trajectory planning and tracking, addressing the challenge of accurately following high-speed, at-limit maneuvers. The proposed time-optimal trajectory planning and tracking (TOTPT) framework utilizes a hierarchical control structure, with an offline trajectory optimization (TRO) module and an online nonlinear model predictive control (NMPC) module. The TRO layer generates minimum-lap-time trajectories using a direct collocation method, which optimizes the vehicle’s path, velocity, and control inputs to achieve the fastest possible lap time, while respecting the vehicle dynamics and track constraints. The NMPC layer is responsible for precisely tracking the reference trajectories generated by the TRO in real time. The NMPC also incorporates a preview algorithm that utilizes the predicted future travel distance to estimate the optimal reference speed and curvature for the next time step, thereby improving the overall tracking performance. Simulation results on the Catalunya circuit demonstrated the framework’s capability to accurately follow the time-optimal raceline at an average speed of 116 km/h, with a maximum lateral error of 0.32 m. The NMPC module uses an acados solver with a real-time iteration (RTI) scheme, to achieve a millisecond-level computation time, making it possible to implement it in real time in autonomous vehicles.
An Improved RAIM Availability Assessment Method Based on the Characteristic Slope
Authors: Zhao Jing , Song Dan , Wang Jitao
Published: May 2024

The availability assessment is an important step for onboard application in Receiver Autonomous Integrity Monitoring (RAIM)s. It is commonly implemented using the protection level (PL)-based method. This paper analyzes the deficiencies of three kinds of PL-based methods: RAIM availability might be optimistically or conservatively assessed using the classic-PL-base method; might be conservatively assessed using the enhanced-PL-based method, and neither be optimistically nor conservatively assessed using the ideal-PL-based method with the cost of large calculation amount on-board. An improved slope-based RAIM availability assessment method is proposed, in which the characteristic slope is designed as the assessment basis, and its threshold that can exactly match the integrity risk requirement is derived. The slope-based method has the same RAIM availability assessment result as the ideal-PL-based method. Moreover, because the slope threshold can be calculated offline and searched online, the on-board calculation burden can be reduced using the slope-based method. Simulation is presented to verify the theoretical analysis of the RAIM availability assessment performances for the three PL-based and the slope-based methods.
Performance Analysis of CSMA/NP under Finite Population Environments
Authors: Rodriguez-Gomez Ariadna I. , Rivero-Angeles Mario E. , Orea-Flores Izlian Y. , Gallegos-García Gina , Chimal-Eguia Juan Carlos
Published: May 2024

In this study, we analyze the CSMA Non-Persistent protocol with a finite number of nodes, providing more accurate results for applications like wireless sensor networks. The finite model addresses scenarios where the node count is moderate, capturing realistic system dynamics. Our analysis reveals a dependency on the node count, impacting system throughput. As the node count increases, throughput behavior aligns with Kleinrock’s infinite model. We derive a complex closed-form throughput expression for a finite quantity of nodes in the system, solved numerically, and offer an approximate expression for specific conditions. These insights advance understanding of low-contention network performance, especially in scenarios where the infinite model becomes inadequate.
Improving Autonomous Vehicle Perception through Evaluating LiDAR Capabilities and Handheld Retroreflectivity Assessments
Authors: Aldoski Ziyad N. , Koren Csaba
Published: May 2024

Road safety is a serious concern worldwide, and traffic signs play a critical role in confirming road safety, particularly in the context of AVs. Therefore, there is a need for ongoing advancements in traffic sign evaluation methodologies. This paper comprehensively analyzes the relationship between traffic sign retroreflectivity and LiDAR intensity to enhance visibility and communication on road networks. Using Python 3.10 programming and statistical techniques, we thoroughly analyzed handheld retroreflectivity coefficients alongside LiDAR intensity data from two LiDAR configurations: 2LRLiDAR and 1CLiDAR systems. The study focused specifically on RA1 and RA2 traffic sign classes, exploring correlations between retroreflectivity and intensity and identifying factors that may impact their performance. Our findings reveal variations in retroreflectivity compliance rates among different sign categories and color compositions, emphasizing the necessity for targeted interventions in sign design and production processes. Additionally, we observed distinct patterns in LiDAR intensity distributions, indicating the potential of LiDAR technology for assessing sign visibility. However, the limited correlations between retroreflectivity and LiDAR intensity underscore the need for further investigation and standardization efforts. This study provides valuable insights into optimizing traffic sign effectiveness, ultimately contributing to improved road safety conditions.
Human-in-the-Loop Optimization of Knee Exoskeleton Assistance for Minimizing User’s Metabolic and Muscular Effort
Authors: Monteiro Sara , Figueiredo Joana , Fonseca Pedro , Vilas-Boas J. Paulo , Santos Cristina P.
Published: May 2024

Lower limb exoskeletons have the potential to mitigate work-related musculoskeletal disorders; however, they often lack user-oriented control strategies. Human-in-the-loop (HITL) controls adapt an exoskeleton’s assistance in real time, to optimize the user–exoskeleton interaction. This study presents a HITL control for a knee exoskeleton using a CMA-ES algorithm to minimize the users’ physical effort, a parameter innovatively evaluated using the interaction torque with the exoskeleton (a muscular effort indicator) and metabolic cost. This work innovates by estimating the user’s metabolic cost within the HITL control through a machine-learning model. The regression model estimated the metabolic cost, in real time, with a root mean squared error of 0.66 W/kg and mean absolute percentage error of 26% (n = 5), making faster (10 s) and less noisy estimations than a respirometer (K5, Cosmed). The HITL reduced the user’s metabolic cost by 7.3% and 5.9% compared to the zero-torque and no-device conditions, respectively, and reduced the interaction torque by 32.3% compared to a zero-torque control (n = 1). The developed HITL control surpassed a non-exoskeleton and zero-torque condition regarding the user’s physical effort, even for a task such as slow walking. Furthermore, the user-specific control had a lower metabolic cost than the non-user-specific assistance. This proof-of-concept demonstrated the potential of HITL controls in assisted walking.
Research on Miniaturized UHF Sensing Technology for PD Detection in Power Equipment Based on Symmetric Cut Theory
Authors: Xu Bowen , Duan Chaoqian , Wang Jiangfan , Zhang Lei , Zhang Guozhi , Zhang Guoguang , Li Guangke
Published: May 2024

In answer to the demand for high sensitivity and miniaturization of ultra-high frequency (UHF) sensors for partial discharge (PD) detection in power equipment, this paper proposes research on miniaturized UHF-sensing technology for PD detection in power equipment based on symmetric cut theory. The symmetric cut theory is applied for the first time to the miniaturization of PD UHF sensors for power equipment. A planar monopole UHF sensor with a size of only 70 mm × 70 mm × 1.6 mm is developed using an exponential asymptotic feed line approach, which is a 50% size reduction. The frequency–response characteristics of the sensor are simulated, optimized and tested; the results show that the standing wave ratio of the sensor developed in this paper is less than 2 in the frequency band from 427 MHz to 1.54 GHz, and less than 5 in the frequency band from 300 MHz to 1.95 GHz; in the 300 MHz~1.5 GHz band; the maximum and average gains of the sensor E-plane are 4.76 dB and 1.02 dB, respectively. Finally, the PD simulation experiment platform for power equipment is built to test the sensor’s sensing performance; the results show that the sensor can effectively detect the PD signals; the sensing sensitivity is improved by about 95% relative to an elliptical monopole UHF sensor.
Reply to Muramoto, J.; Bolda, M. Comments on “Verteramo Chiu, L.J.; Gomez, M.I. A Tale of Two Strawberries: Conventional and Organic Open-Field Production in California. Sustainability 2023, 15, 14363”
Authors: Verteramo Chiu Leslie J. , Gomez Miguel I.
Published: May 2024

We thank Drs [...]
Station Placement for Sustainable Urban Metro Freight Systems Using Complex Network Theory
Authors: Zheng Shukang , Yang Hanpei , Hu Huan , Liu Chun , Shen Yang , Zheng Changjiang
Published: May 2024

To solve the problem of urban freight demand and build an efficient, practical, intelligent, green, and sustainable new logistics system, this paper considers the application of the subway network to urban freight transportation and studies the location problem of subway transit stations in the urban freight network. According to the differences between different subway stations, the nodal degree, medial centrality, proximity centrality, and regional accessibility are proposed as the evaluation indexes, and the improved fuzzy analytic hierarchy method and entropy weight method are used to calculate the index weight. The TOPSIS evaluation method is used to evaluate the importance of each subway station, and the importance evaluation model of subway stations is constructed. Combined with the distribution location and transportation demand of urban express delivery outlets, a two-tier planning model for the location of subway transfer stations was constructed with total cost and customer satisfaction as the objective functions, and the case studies were carried out by taking Jiangning District, Lishui District, and Gaochun District of Nanjing as the research objects. The results show that Hohai University Focheng West Road, Zhengfang Middle Road, Qunli, and Gaochun can be transformed into subway transfer stations and used as transshipment centers of the urban cargo transportation network. Compared with the original ground transportation network, 52.87% of the ground transportation distance in the optimized transportation network is replaced by subway transportation, and the total cost of logistics transportation is reduced by 8.73%, which verifies the feasibility of subway for urban cargo transportation, reduces logistics transportation costs, and relieves the pressure of ground transportation, which is of great significance for the sustainable development of urban logistics.
Analysis of the Driving Range Evaluation Method for Fuel-Cell Electric Vehicles
Authors: Guo Ting , Sun Letian , Wang Guozhuo , Wu Shiyu
Published: May 2024

The range is one of the most important performance indicators for fuel-cell electric vehicles. This article focuses on the analysis of GB/T 43252-2023 “Energy Consumption and Range Test Methods for Fuel-Cell Electric Vehicles” from the perspective of a standard analysis, and conducts actual vehicle tests on the range test method and process. It introduces the measurement method of hydrogen gas filling for test vehicles, and explains the main content of the new standard revision and the main differences between the new and old standards. This article takes the fuel-cell dump truck as an example, and analyzed the relationship between the output power of fuel-cell stacks and power batteries during vehicle operation and driving conditions, as well as the proportion of fuel cell output power. The results show that the optimal output power range of fuel cells is 20–40 kW, accounting for 45.2% of the total operating time. When driving at high speeds, the output power of fuel cells is greater than that of power batteries.
Factors Influencing USA Women to Receive the Human Papillomavirus Vaccine: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Cernasev Alina , Barenie Rachel E. , Jasmin Hilary , Yatsko Ashley , Stultz Jeremy S.
Published: May 2024

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most prevalent sexually transmitted infection in the United States of America (USA). Cervical cancer is the most common HPV-related cancer, which leads to approximately 4000 deaths yearly in women. Despite the nationwide availability of the HPV vaccine, the coverage and series-completion rates have been historically low due to multiple barriers. Previous systematic literature reviews emphasize global quantitative studies regarding parents of pediatric populations. This study aimed to evaluate qualitative studies conducted in the USA to characterize the facilitators and barriers to HPV uptake among eligible women. Four databases, including PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, and the Cumulative Index for Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), were utilized to search the literature for comprehensive qualitative studies from 2014 to 2023 with pre-selected inclusion criteria. This review was conducted in compliance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). After detailed full-text extraction, 26 studies met the inclusion criteria, and two authors extracted the data. Three themes emerged from the data: (1) facilitators perceived by women to uptake the HPV vaccine, (2) barriers perceived by women to uptake the HPV vaccine, and (3) barriers and facilitators perceived by women to uptake the HPV vaccine. These themes highlighted different barriers and facilitators to HPV vaccines uptake, such as the lack of healthcare provider recommendation, cost, and safety concerns as barriers to receiving the vaccine. To change the norms towards HPV vaccine hesitancy, the healthcare team has a important opportunity to impart the knowledge and skills known to elicit behavior change.
Assessment of Quality of Life in Patients with Advanced Melanoma Receiving Immunotherapy with Checkpoint Inhibitors
Authors:   St. Petersburg State University, Sarmatova A.S. , Orlova R.V. , Zhukova N.V. , Kutukova S.I. , Belyak N.P. ,   St. Petersburg City Clinical Oncology Center,   I.P. Pavlov St. Petersburg State Medical University
Published: May 2024

Objective. To evaluate the quality of life in patients with advanced/recurrent melanoma receiving immunotherapy with checkpoint inhibitors. Material and methods. The study enrolled 30 patients with advanced/recurrent melanoma treated with checkpoint inhibitors in the City Clinical Oncology Center, Saint Petersburg from 2020 to 2023. Quality of life was measured by SF-36 questionnaire and ESAS-R scale thrice: before treatment, after one and three months. Results. The age of the included patients ranged from 30 to 87 years (mean age is 64 ± 11 years, 95% CI 57.20–71.11). Cutaneous melanoma was present in 90% of the patients, while melanoma of mucosal origin was found in 10% of the patients. The functional status of 40% of the patients on the ECOG scale was 2–3 points. 40% (n = 12) of patients received Prolgolimab, 26.7% (n = 8) received the combination of Nivolumab 1 mg/kg + Ipilimumab 3 mg/kg, 23.3% (n = 7) received Nivolumab in mono regimen, 6.7% (n = 2) received Ipilimumab, and 3.3% (n = 1) received the combination Nivolumab 3 mg/kg + Ipilimumab 1 mg/kg. There was a significant decrease in pain (before treatment 2.29 ± 1.979, after 3 months 1.29 ± 1.922 (p = 0.021)), an improvement in the overall symptom profile (before treatment 15.79 ± 11.127, after 1 month – 12.00 ± 8.899, after 3 months – 12.82 ± 12.157 (p = 0.006)) on ESAS-R questionnaire was registered. Improvement was noted in most scales of the SF-36 questionnaire compared with baseline, with statistically significant changes obtained for physical functioning (p = 0.05), pain (p = 0.01), social functioning (p = 0.013), mental health (p = 0.01), overall index of physical health component (p = 0.001), overall index of mental health component (p = 0.042). Conclusion. The results demonstrate a positive effect of treatment with checkpoint inhibitors on the quality of life and symptom profile of patients diagnosed with advanced/recurrent melanoma.
Comparative Characteristics of Methods of Inflammatory Periodontal Diseases in Patients After COVID Infection
Authors:   Central State Medical Academy of Department of Presidential Affairs, Moscow, Romashchenko A.S.
Published: May 2024

Aim. To compare the effectiveness of standard therapy for periodontal diseases and combined treatment using laser therapy and liposomal gel for inflammatory periodontal diseases in patients who have suffered from covid infection. Material and methods. 101 patients took part in this study, of which 56 people (55.4%) were men, 45 people (44.6%) were women. The average age of patients was 47.6 ± 11.7 years (26–72), the average age of men was 48.9 ± 12.5 (26–72) years, the average age of women was 46.0 ± 10.3 years (27–72). All patients had a history of COVID-19 in the last 2–6 months and sought dental care; periodontal disease was identified as the main or concomitant diagnosis. Patients who gave informed consent in writing in accordance with GOST R ISO 14155–2014 were allowed to participate in the study. Results. The study revealed that the combined treatment of periodontal diseases, including the use of laser therapy and liposomal gel, the greatest effectiveness was revealed in comparison with standard therapy. Conclusion. The study revealed a significant decrease in periodontal and hygienic indices during the combined treatment of periodontal diseases in patients who had suffered a covid infection, which indicates the effectiveness of this therapy.
Melanoma and Pregnancy. Own Clinical Experience
Authors:   N.I. Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Magomedova Z.R. ,   N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology,   Medsi Clinical Hospital No. 2, Nazarova V.V. , Orlova K.V. , Samoylenko I.V. , Markina I.G. , Ledin Ye.V. , Shamrikova V.A. , Baryshnikov K.A. , Demidov L.V.
Published: May 2024

The number of cases of melanoma of the skin is steadily increasing every year, which leads to an increase in cases of melanoma associated with pregnancy. To date, there is no convincing evidence of an increased risk of skin melanoma or death from melanoma during pregnancy, however, the treatment of such patients is not an easy task for oncologists. And if surgical treatment of patients with primary melanoma of the skin during pregnancy should be carried out according to modern standards, then the use of targeted drugs and checkpoint inhibitors has been little studied during pregnancy, therefore each individual case requires an individual approach. The article describes the clinical experience of the treatment of melanoma associated with pregnancy at the N.N. Blokhin National Research Medical Center of Oncology.
Análise da trajetória de aun si no espanhol
Authors: Ribeiro Fante Bárbara , Leite Gonçalves Sebastião Carlos , Storti Garcia Talita
Published: May 2024

Este artigo apresenta uma análise diacrônica da trajetória de aun si no espanhol, segundo os pressupostos teóricos de gramaticalização assentados nas bases da Gramática Discursivo-Funcional (Hengeveld 2017 y Hengeveld y Mackenzie 2008). Na tradição gramatical espanhola, aun si é considerada uma locução conjuntiva concessivo-condicional, por atuar em orações tanto concessivas quanto condicionais. A análise de ocorrências dos períodos antigo, médio e moderno do espanhol mostram que, em sincronias mais pretéritas, a conjunção condicional si é escopada por aun, enquanto no período moderno ocorre fixação de aun e de si, conforme atestam os critérios de mobilidade e de modificação aplicados à locução (Keizer 2007 y Giomi 2020). Apesar dessa tendência geral, o cline de gramaticalidade de aun si não comprova totalmente a hipótese inicial de que sua trajetória parte do valor condicional (nos períodos mais pretéritos) e, no processo de gramaticalização, segue em direção ao valor concessivo, uma vez que se constata uma estabilidade sintática, semântica e discursiva de aun si desde o século XIII até o XXI, o que explica a coexistência, no espanhol moderno, de dois tipos de aun si, o condicional e o concessivo-condicional.
Humor, lingüística y discurso. Un estado de la cuestión
Authors: Palacios Cristian Eduardo
Published: May 2024

Presentación del dossier Humor, lingüística y discurso. Un estado de la cuestión.