bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Willingness to accept monkeypox vaccine and its correlates among men who have sex with men in Southern China: a web-based online cross-sectional study
Authors: Huang Xinju , Lin Zhifeng , Qin Jiao , Yu Dee , Zhang Fei , Fang Ganggang , Chen Xi , He Jinfeng , Cen Ping , Li Mu , Zhang Rongjing , Luo Tong , Jiang Junjun , An Sanqi , Liang Hao , Ye Li , Liang Bingyu
Published: February 2024

Background

The May 2022 global outbreak of monkeypox (MPX) poses a threat to the health of men who have sex with men. However, there is limited data on the willingness of MSM to receive monkeypox vaccination in Southern China. This study aimed to assess the knowledge of MPX, concerns regarding MPX, and willingness to receive monkeypox vaccination, as well as their correlates, among MSM in China.

Methods

We conducted a Web-based online survey of MSM in Southern China from August to September 2022. Data were collected on the socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge, worries, concerns regarding MPX and willingness to receive monkeypox vaccination. Multivariate logistic regression was employed to explore the factors associated with willingness to receive monkeypox vaccination.

Results

A total of 1903 participants completed the survey. Among them, approximately 69.9% reported being aware of MPX awareness, 94.1% of the participants supported the promotion of monkeypox vaccination. The majority of participants (91.4%) expressed their willingness to receive monkeypox vaccination. Participants who considered monkeypox vaccination safe [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 4.82, 95% CI: 1.35–17.18], agreed on the necessity of government promotion of monkeypox vaccination in China (aOR = 6.03, 95% CI: 1.07–33.93), believed in prioritizing monkeypox vaccination for MSM (aOR = 5.01, 95% CI: 1.10–22.71), and had friends or sexual partners who had already received the monkeypox or smallpox vaccination (aOR = 10.37, 95% CI: 2.11–50.99) are more likely to be vaccinated. Conversely, married individuals (aOR = 0.13, 95% CI: 0.03–0.47), those engaging in anal sex 4–6 times per week in the past 3 months (aOR = 0.26, 95% CI: 0.09–0.77) expressed hesitancy toward monkeypox vaccination.

Conclusion

There was a high willingness to receive monkeypox vaccination among MSM in China. The hesitancy toward the monkeypox vaccine can be effectively mitigated by addressing concerns about its safety and potential adverse reactions. Moreover, increasing acceptance of the monkeypox vaccination among MSM and their peers is crucial, as social influence significantly impacts vaccine attitudes and behaviors.
Use of immunology in news and YouTube videos in the context of COVID-19: politicisation and information bubbles
Authors: George Rachel Surrage , Goodey Hannah , Russo Maria Antonietta , Tula Rovena , Ghezzi Pietro
Published: February 2024

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic propelled immunology into global news and social media, resulting in the potential for misinterpreting and misusing complex scientific concepts.

Objective

To study the extent to which immunology is discussed in news articles and YouTube videos in English and Italian, and if related scientific concepts are used to support specific political or ideological narratives in the context of COVID-19.

Methods

In English and Italian we searched the period 11/09/2019 to 11/09/2022 on YouTube, using the software Mozdeh, for videos mentioning COVID-19 and one of nine immunological concepts: antibody-dependent enhancement, anergy, cytokine storm, herd immunity, hygiene hypothesis, immunity debt, original antigenic sin, oxidative stress and viral interference. We repeated this using MediaCloud for news articles.

Four samples of 200 articles/videos were obtained from the randomised data gathered and analysed for mentions of concepts, stance on vaccines, masks, lockdown, social distancing, and political signifiers.

Results

Vaccine-negative information was higher in videos than news (8-fold in English, 6-fold in Italian) and higher in Italian than English (4-fold in news, 3-fold in videos). We also observed the existence of information bubbles, where a negative stance towards one intervention was associated with a negative stance to other linked ideas. Some immunological concepts (immunity debt, viral interference, anergy and original antigenic sin) were associated with anti-vaccine or anti-NPI (non-pharmacological intervention) views. Videos in English mentioned politics more frequently than those in Italian and, in all media and languages, politics was more frequently mentioned in anti-guidelines and anti-vaccine media by a factor of 3 in video and of 3–5 in news.

Conclusion

There is evidence that some immunological concepts are used to provide credibility to specific narratives and ideological views. The existence of information bubbles supports the concept of the “rabbit hole” effect, where interest in unconventional views/media leads to ever more extreme algorithmic recommendations.
Experiences of childhood, intimate partner, non-partner, and hate crime-related violence among a sample of people living with HIV in the epicenter of the U.S. HIV epidemic
Authors: Sales Jessica M. , Anderson Katherine M. , Livingston Melvin D. , Garbarino Sophia , Hadera Selaem , Rose Eve S. , Carlson Madelyn S. , Kalokhe Ameeta S.
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Experiences of violence among people living with HIV (PLWH) are thought to be highly prevalent but remain inadequately captured. As a first step toward acceptable, trauma informed practices that improve engagement and retention in care for PLWH, we must acquire more comprehensive understanding of violence experiences. We examined experiences of various forms of lifetime violence: adverse childhood experiences (ACES), intimate partner violence (IPV), non-partner violence (NPV), and hate crimes among diverse sample of PLWH in Atlanta, Georgia.

Methods

Cross sectional data collected from in- and out-of-care PLWH (N = 285) receiving care/support from Ryan White Clinics (RWCs), AIDS Service Organizations (ASOs), or large safety-net hospital, February 2021–December 2022. As part of larger study, participants completed interviewer-administered survey and reported on experiences of violence, both lifetime and past year. Participant characteristics and select HIV-related variables were collected to further describe the sample. Univariate and bivariate analyses assessed participant characteristics across types of violence.

Results

High prevalence of past violence experiences across all types (ACES: 100%, IPV: 88.7%, NPV: 97.5%, lifetime hate crimes 93.2%). People assigned male at birth who identified as men experienced more violence than women, with exception of non-partner forced sex. Participants identifying as gay men were more likely to have experienced violence.

Conclusion

Among our sample of PLWH at the epicenter of the United States HIV epidemic, histories of interpersonal and community violence are common. Findings emphasize need for RWCs, ASOs, and hospital systems to be universally trained in trauma-informed approaches and have integrated onsite mental health and social support services.
Association between blood ethylene oxide levels and periodontitis risk: a population-based study
Authors: Liu Yixuan , Liu Nuozhou , Xiong Wei , Wang Ruiyu
Published: February 2024

Background

The etiopathogenesis of periodontitis is closely associated with environmental conditions. However, the relationship between ethylene oxide exposure and periodontitis risk remains unclear.

Methods

We selected qualified participants from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2013–2014. Periodontitis was identified according to the criteria of the Community Periodontal Index (CPI), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)/American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) definition. Ethylene oxide exposure was quantified by hemoglobin adducts of ethylene oxide (HbEO) levels. Log2-transformation was used to normalize HbEO levels. We designed three logistic regression models to explore potential relationship between HbEO and periodontitis. Restricted cubic spline (RCS) and subgroup analysis were also conducted with all covariates adjusted. We performed multivariable linear regression to appraise the association between the risk of periodontitis and different indicators of inflammation, including white blood cells, neutrophils, lymphocytes, and monocytes. Mediation analysis was subsequently performed to examine whether ethylene oxide exposure contributed to periodontitis development through systemic body inflammation.

Results

A total of 1,065 participants aged more than 30 were incorporated in this study. We identified that participants with higher HbEO levels showed increased risk of periodontitis after adjusting for all covariates (OR = 1.49, 95% CI: 1.14, 1.95, p = 0.0014). The results of subgroup analysis remained stable. The restricted cubic spline (RCS) curve also revealed a non-linear correlation between log2-transformed HbEO levels with the risk of periodontitis (p for nonlinear < 0.001). Mediation analysis indicated that HbEO level was significantly associated with four inflammatory mediators, with the mediated proportions of 14.44% (p < 0.001) for white blood cell, 9.62% (p < 0.001) for neutrophil, 6.17% (p = 0.006) for lymphocyte, and 6.72% (p < 0.001) for monocyte.

Conclusion

Participants with higher ethylene oxide exposure showed higher risk of periodontitis, which was partially mediated by systemic body inflammation. More well-designed longitudinal studies should be carried out to validate this relationship.
Personal data store ecosystems in health and social care
Authors: Carmichael Laura , Hall Wendy , Boniface Michael
Published: February 2024

This paper considers how the development of personal data store ecosystems in health and social care may offer one person-centered approach to improving the ways in which individual generated and gathered data—e.g., from wearables and other personal monitoring and tracking devices—can be used for wellbeing, individual care, and research. Personal data stores aim to provide safe and secure digital spaces that enable people to self-manage, use, and share personal data with others in a way that aligns with their individual needs and preferences. A key motivation for personal data stores is to give an individual more access and meaningful control over their personal data, and greater visibility over how it is used by others. This commentary discusses meanings and motivations behind the personal data store concept—examples are provided to illustrate the opportunities such ecosystems can offer in health and social care, and associated research and implementation challenges are also examined.
Kombucha polysaccharide alleviates DSS-induced colitis in mice by modulating the gut microbiota and remodeling metabolism pathways
Authors: Ji Zhong-Hao , Xie Wen-Yin , Zhao Pei-Sen , Ren Wen-Zhi , Jin Hong-Juan , Yuan Bao
Published: February 2024

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is incurable, and rational dietary interventions are important in preventing UC. Kombucha is a fermented beverage that originated in China and has a variety of activities, including antioxidant, antibacterial and hypoglycemic activities. The aim of this study was to analyze the protective effect of Kombucha polysaccharide (KP) against UC and determine its mechanism of action. The results showed that KP intervention was effective in alleviating dextran sulfate sodium salt (DSS)-induced colitis symptoms and inhibiting DSS-induced inflammation and oxidative stress. Moreover, KP was able to reduce intestinal permeability, promote the expression of tight junction proteins, and help maintain thrush cell numbers and promote mucus secretion. The 16S rDNA results indicated that KP intervention increased the abundance of Rikenellaceae_RC9_gut_group and Clostridiales_unclassified. Untargeted metabolomics techniques revealed that KP can reverse DSS-induced disorders in intestinal metabolism. This study demonstrated that KP alleviated DSS-induced colitis by helping maintain intestinal barrier integrity, regulating the gut microbiota and remodeling metabolism pathways. The findings provide a theoretical basis for the application of KP as a dietary supplement for the prevention of UC.
What a pain in the … back: a review of current treatment options with a focus on naproxen sodium
Authors: Weisman Steven M. , Ciavarra Giovanni , Cooper Grant
Published: February 2024

Non-specific low back pain (LBP) represents a challenging and prevalent condition that is one of the most common symptoms leading to primary care physician visits. While established guidelines recommend prioritizing non-pharmacological approaches as the primary course of action, pharmacological treatments are advised when non-pharmacological approaches are ineffective or based on patient preference. These guidelines recommend non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or skeletal muscle relaxers (SMRs) as the first-line pharmacological options for acute or subacute LBP, while NSAIDs are the exclusive first-line pharmacological option for chronic LBP. Although SMRs are generally effective for acute LBP, the available evidence does not support the view that they improve functional recovery, and their comparative efficacy to NSAIDs and other analgesics remains unknown, while studies have shown them to introduce adverse events without significantly reducing LBP. Moreover, opioids continue to be widely prescribed for LBP, despite limited evidence for effectiveness and known risks of addiction and overdose. Broader use of non-opioid pharmacotherapy, including the appropriate use of OTC options, is critical to addressing the opioid crisis. The balance of evidence indicates that NSAIDs have a favorable benefit-risk profile when compared to other available pharmacological treatment options for non-specific LBP, a condition that is primarily acute in nature and well-suited for self-treatment with OTC analgesics. While clinical guidelines do not differentiate between NSAIDs, evidence indicates that OTC naproxen sodium effectively relieves pain across multiple types of pain models, and furthermore, the 14-h half-life of naproxen sodium allows sustained, all day pain relief with reduced patient pill burden as compared to shorter acting options. Choosing the most appropriate approach for managing LBP, including non-pharmacological options, should be based on the patient’s condition, severity of pain, potential risks, and individual patient preference and needs.
Algorithms Utilized for Creep Analysis in Torque Transducers for Wind Turbines
Authors: Puchalski Jacek G. , Fidelus Janusz D. , Fotowicz Paweł
Published: February 2024

One of the fundamental challenges in analyzing wind turbine performance is the occurrence of torque creep under load and without load. This phenomenon significantly impacts the proper functioning of torque transducers, thus necessitating the utilization of appropriate measurement data analysis algorithms. In this regard, employing the least squares method appears to be a suitable approach. Linear regression can be employed to investigate the creep trend itself, while visualizing the creep in the form of a non-linear curve using a third-degree polynomial can provide further insights. Additionally, calculating deviations between the measurement data and the regression curves proves beneficial in accurately assessing the data.
Nutritional and Antioxidative Benefits of Dietary Macroalgae Supplementation in Weaned Piglets
Authors: Czech Anna , Woś Katarzyna , Muszyński Siemowit , Tomaszewska Ewa
Published: February 2024

This study explores the effects of dietary brown macroalgae (Ascophyllum nodosum) inclusion on digestibility and blood biochemical indices and redox markers in piglets fed diets with varying levels (0%, 0.6% and 1%) of macroalgae from 18 to 64 days of age. Macroalgae significantly influenced lipid profiles, reducing total cholesterol levels (quadratic contrast p = 0.001) and demonstrating an increase in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, particularly with 1% macroalgae inclusion (linear contrast p < 0.001), with a decrease in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in both macroalgae-supplemented groups (linear contrast p = 0.001). Additionally, macroalgae had a positive impact on the activities of antioxidative enzymes (ferric-reducing ability of plasma, superoxide dismutase, reduced glutathione) and reduced lipid peroxidation products (lipid hydroperoxide, malondialdehyde) in the blood, liver tissue, and intestinal epithelium of the ileum, suggesting enhanced antioxidative defense mechanisms. These changes were dose-dependent; in blood plasma, they exhibited both a linear and quadratic response, while in the tissues, the response was primarily linear. Additionally, an increase in the digestibility of crude fat in macroalgae-supplemented groups was observed (linear contrast p < 0.001), highlighting their potential role in improving nutrient absorption and digestion. The study findings emphasize the health benefits of natural, seaweed-based additives in diets, particularly in managing oxidative stress and improving lipid profiles, and highlight the potential of macroalgae as a natural dietary supplement to improve antioxidant systems and lipid metabolism in piglets.
Effects of Epoxy Resin Value on Waterborne-Epoxy-Resin-Modified Emulsified Asphalt Mixture Performance
Authors: Wang Lieguang , Zhang Zirui , Liu Wenyao , Wu Mingfei , Shi Junyi , Yan Kezhen
Published: February 2024

Although research shows that waterborne epoxy resin emulsified asphalt (WER-EA) is an environmental protection material with potential high resistance to multiple types of pavement distress, its performance is rather complicated and much affected by the curing agent and epoxy resin value. This paper serves as a follow-up study to the preliminary published research on evaluating the impact of the epoxy value and common curing agents on the performance of asphalt mixtures. Four groups of emulsified asphalt were filtered out to prepare mixture samples, and laboratory tests on mixture performance under high and low temperatures were conducted. Specifically, Marshall and rutting tests were conducted for evaluating mixture resistance to rutting under high temperatures, and indirect tensile tests were conducted to indicate resistance to cracking at low temperatures. Water stability performance was also assessed by comparing the mixture properties before and after water absorption. The results showed that the mixture with an epoxy value of 20 and curing agents using triethylenetetramine (TETA) had the best overall performance among the investigated mixtures, with the highest resistance to high-temperature deformation and water damage. However, more research should be conducted to improve the low-temperature resistance to cracking for WER-EA mixtures.
Mechanical Characterization of the Male Lower Urinary Tract: Comparison among Soft Tissues from the Same Human Case Study
Authors: Berardo Alice , Mascolini Maria Vittoria , Fontanella Chiara Giulia , Contran Martina , Todesco Martina , Porzionato Andrea , Macchi Veronica , De Caro Raffaele , Boscolo-Berto Rafael , Carniel Emanuele Luigi
Published: February 2024

Background: Nowadays, a challenging task concerns the biomechanical study of the human lower urinary tract (LUT) due to the variety of its tissues and the low availability of samples. Methods: This work attempted to further extend the knowledge through a comprehensive mechanical characterization of the male LUT by considering numerous tissues harvested from the same cadaver, including some never studied before. Samples of the bladder, urethra, prostate, Buck’s fascia and tunica albuginea related to corpora cavernosa were considered and distinguished according to testing direction, specimen conformation and anatomical region. Uniaxial tensile and indentation tests were performed and ad hoc protocols were developed. Results: The tissues showed a non-linear and viscoelastic response but different mechanical properties due to their specific functionality and microstructural configuration. Tunica albuginea longitudinally displayed the highest stiffness (12.77 MPa), while the prostate transversally had the lowest one (0.66 MPa). The minimum stress relaxation degree (65.74%) was reached by the tunica albuginea and the maximum (88.55%) by the bladder. The prostate elastic modulus was shown to vary according to the presence of pathological changes at the microstructure. Conclusions: This is the first experimental work that considers the mechanical evaluation of the LUT tissues in relation to the same subject, setting the basis for future developments by expanding the sample population and for the development of effective in silico models to improve the solutions for most LUT pathologies.
Study on Delaunay Triangular Mesh Delineation for Complex Terrain Based on the Improved Center of Gravity Interpolation Method
Authors: Zheng Wenhui , Wang Haiyun , Huang Xiaofang
Published: February 2024

Wind energy resources in complex terrain are abundant. However, the default mesh division of various terrains often needs more specificity, particularly in wind resource analysis. The mesh division method can diminish computational efficiency and quality in intricate topographical conditions. This article presents a combined algorithm for generating Delaunay triangular meshes in mountainous terrains with significant variations in terrain. The algorithm considers the uncertainty of inner nodes and mesh quality, addressing both the advantages and drawbacks of the Delaunay triangular mesh. The proposed method combines the triangular center of gravity insertion algorithm with an incremental inserting algorithm. Its main goal is to enhance the quality and efficiency of mesh generation, specifically tailored for this type of complex terrain. The process involves discretizing boundary edges and contour lines to obtain point sets, screening boundary triangles, and comparing the triangle area to the average boundary triangle area, combining with the incremental inserting algorithm to generate a triangular mesh of complex terrain. After an initial debugging of the mesh, it is determined whether increasing the internal nodes is necessary to insert the triangle centers of gravity. Upon implementing actual mountainous terrain in the simulation software, a comparison of the resulting meshing demonstrates that the proposed method is highly suitable for complex mountainous terrain with significant variations in elevation. Additionally, it effectively improves the quality of the Delaunay triangular mesh and reduces the occurrence of deformed cells during the meshing process.
Speech Melody Research as the Interdisciplinary Foundation of the Petrograd Institute of the Living Word
Authors: Zolotukhin Valeriy
Published: February 2024

The assumption of similarity between artistic speech melody and music was deeply rooted in Russian Symbolism and based on the culturally established analogy between poetry/lyrical prosody and music. This connection was the basis for a wide range of performative practices focused on performed word such as the experiments of director Vsevolod Meyerhold and composer Mikhail Gnesin in Petrograd theater studios in 1900–1910s, and the collective declamation of Vasilii Serezhnikov and Vsevolod Vsevolodskii-Gerngross. However, after the October revolution, this analogy not only inspired new artistic paths, but also new approaches in humanities. This article explores the correlation between a practice-based strategy and advanced theory that characterized the structure and curricula of the Petrograd Institute of the Living Word (Institut zhivogo slova; 1918–1924). Its specific institutional features affected the development of disciplines in the fields of linguistics, poetics, and literary studies. The earlier period of its work (1918–1921) was defined by the search for common ground, which could unite representatives of different disciplines. The study of the melody of speech, which this article is focused on, became one of the key joint research projects of the Institute’s team. It is the perspective of the Institute of the Living Word’s research projects and performance-related art practices that is used for analysis of the Russian Formalist approaches in the 1910s–20s, specifically articles and books of philologist Boris Eikhenbaum on the melody and composition of verse intonation.
Evaluation of the Impact of Population Management on the Genetic Parameters of Selected Spiral-Horned Antelopes
Authors: Cetkovská Ema , Brandlová Karolína , Ogden Rob , Černá Bolfíková Barbora
Published: February 2024

The rapid loss of biodiversity and the associated reduction and fragmentation of habitats means that ex situ populations have become an important part of species conservation. These populations, which are often established from a small number of founders, require careful management to avoid the negative effects of genetic drift and inbreeding. Although the inclusion of molecular data is recommended, their availability for captive breeding management remains limited. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between the levels of genetic diversity in six spiral-horned antelope taxa bred under human care and their respective management strategies, conservation status, demography, and geographic origin, using 10 nuclear DNA microsatellite loci and mitochondrial control region DNA sequences. Our findings include associations between genetic diversity and management intensity but also with the diversity and contribution of wild populations to captive founders, with some populations apparently composed of animals from divergent wild lineages elevating captive genetic diversity. When population sizes are large, the potential advantages of maximizing genetic diversity in widely outcrossed populations may need careful consideration with respect to the potential disruption of adaptive diversity. Genetic data serve as a robust tool for managing captive populations, yet their interpretation necessitates a comprehensive understanding of species biology and history.
Terpenoid-Mediated Targeting of STAT3 Signaling in Cancer: An Overview of Preclinical Studies
Authors: Khan Fahad , Pandey Pratibha , Verma Meenakshi , Upadhyay Tarun Kumar
Published: February 2024

Cancer has become one of the most multifaceted and widespread illnesses affecting human health, causing substantial mortality at an alarming rate. After cardiovascular problems, the condition has a high occurrence rate and ranks second in terms of mortality. The development of new drugs has been facilitated by increased research and a deeper understanding of the mechanisms behind the emergence and advancement of the disease. Numerous preclinical and clinical studies have repeatedly demonstrated the protective effects of natural terpenoids against a range of malignancies. Numerous potential bioactive terpenoids have been investigated in natural sources for their chemopreventive and chemoprotective properties. In practically all body cells, the signaling molecule referred to as signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is widely expressed. Numerous studies have demonstrated that STAT3 regulates its downstream target genes, including Bcl-2, Bcl-xL, cyclin D1, c-Myc, and survivin, to promote the growth of cells, differentiation, cell cycle progression, angiogenesis, and immune suppression in addition to chemotherapy resistance. Researchers viewed STAT3 as a primary target for cancer therapy because of its crucial involvement in cancer formation. This therapy primarily focuses on directly and indirectly preventing the expression of STAT3 in tumor cells. By explicitly targeting STAT3 in both in vitro and in vivo settings, it has been possible to explain the protective effect of terpenoids against malignant cells. In this study, we provide a complete overview of STAT3 signal transduction processes, the involvement of STAT3 in carcinogenesis, and mechanisms related to STAT3 persistent activation. The article also thoroughly summarizes the inhibition of STAT3 signaling by certain terpenoid phytochemicals, which have demonstrated strong efficacy in several preclinical cancer models.
FBG-Based Accelerometer for Buried Pipeline Natural Frequency Monitoring and Corrosion Detection
Authors: Pereira Luís , Sousa Israel , Mesquita Esequiel , Cabral Antônio , Alberto Nélia , Diaz Camilo , Varum Humberto , Antunes Paulo
Published: February 2024

Pipelines are structures with great relevance in different industrial sectors and are essential for the proper functioning of the logistics that support today’s society. Due to their characteristics, locations, and continuous operation, allied with the huge network of pipelines across the world, they require specialized labor, maintenance, and adequate sensing systems to access their proper operation and detect any damage they may suffer throughout their service life. In this work, a fiber Bragg grating (FBG)-based optical fiber accelerometer (OFA), which was designed and calibrated to operate through wavelength and optical power variations using different interrogation setups, was fixed together with a pair of FBG arrays along a 1020 carbon steel pipeline section with the objective of monitoring the pipeline natural frequency (fn_pipeline) to indirectly evaluate the detection and evolution of corrosion when this structure was buried in sand. Here, corrosion was induced in a small area of the pipeline for 164 days, and the OFA was able to detect a maximum fn_pipeline variation of 3.8 Hz in that period. On the other hand, the attached FBGs showed a limited performance once they could successfully operate when the pipeline was unburied, but presented operational limitations when the pipeline was buried in sand. This was due to the inability of the structure to vibrate long enough under these conditions and obtained data from these sensors were insufficient to obtain the fn_pipeline.
Interaction between NSCLC Cells, CD8+ T-Cells and Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors Potentiates Coagulation and Promotes Metabolic Remodeling—New Cues on CAT-VTE
Authors: Freitas-Dias Catarina , Gonçalves Filipe , Martins Filipa , Lemos Isabel , Gonçalves Luís G. , Serpa Jacinta
Published: February 2024

Background: Cancer-associated thrombosis (CAT) and venous thromboembolism (VTE) are frequent cancer-related complications associated with high mortality; thus, this urges the identification of predictive markers. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) used in cancer immunotherapy allow T-cell activation against cancer cells. Retrospective studies showed increased VTE following ICI administration in some patients. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients are at high risk of thrombosis and thus, the adoption of immunotherapy, as a first-line treatment, seems to be associated with coagulation-fibrinolysis derangement. Methods: We pharmacologically modulated NSCLC cell lines in co-culture with CD8+ T-cells (TCD8+) and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), isolated from healthy blood donors. The effects of ICIs Nivolumab and Ipilimumab on NSCLC cell death were assessed by annexin V and propidium iodide (PI) flow cytometry analysis. The potential procoagulant properties were analyzed by in vitro clotting assays and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs). The metabolic remodeling induced by the ICIs was explored by 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. Results: Flow cytometry analysis showed that TCD8+ and ICIs increase cell death in H292 and PC-9 cells but not in A549 cells. Conditioned media from NSCLC cells exposed to TCD8+ and ICI induced in vitro platelet aggregation. In A549, Podoplanin (PDPN) levels increased with Nivolumab. In H292, ICIs increased PDPN levels in the absence of TCD8+. In PC-9, Ipilimumab decreased PDPN levels, this effect being rescued by TCD8+. MDSCs did not interfere with the effect of TCD8+ in the production of TF or PDPN in any NSCLC cell lines. The exometabolome showed a metabolic remodeling in NSCLC cells upon exposure to TCD8+ and ICIs. Conclusions: This study provides some insights into the interplay of immune cells, ICIs and cancer cells influencing the coagulation status. ICIs are important promoters of coagulation, benefiting from TCD8+ mediation. The exometabolome analysis highlighted the relevance of acetate, pyruvate, glycine, glutamine, valine, leucine and isoleucine as biomarkers. Further investigation is needed to validate this finding in a cohort of NSCLC patients.
Tracking of Internal Granular Progenitors Responding to Valproic Acid in the Cerebellar Cortex of Infant Ferrets
Authors: Kamiya Shiori , Kobayashi Tetsuya , Sawada Kazuhiko
Published: February 2024

Internal granular progenitors (IGPs) in the developing cerebellar cortex of ferrets differentiate towards neural and glial lineages. The present study tracked IGPs that proliferated in response to valproic acid (VPA) to determine their fate during cerebellar cortical histogenesis. Ferret kits were used to administer VPA (200 μg/g body weight) on postnatal days 6 and 7. EdU and BrdU were injected on postnatal days 5 and 7, respectively, to label the post-proliferative and proliferating cells when exposed to VPA. At postnatal day 20, when the external granule layer was most expanded, EdU- and BrdU-single-labeled cells were significantly denser in the inner granular layer of VPA-exposed ferrets than in controls. No EdU- or BrdU-labeling was found in Purkinje cells and molecular layer interneurons. Significantly higher percentages of NeuN and Pax6 immunostaining in VPA-exposed ferrets revealed VPA-induced differentiation of IGPs towards granular neurons in BrdU-single-labeled cells. In contrast, both EdU- and BrdU-single-labeled cells exhibited significantly greater percentages of PCNA immunostaining, which appeared in immature Bergman glia, in the internal granular layer of VPA-exposed ferrets. These findings suggest that VPA affects the proliferation of IGPs to induce differentiative division towards granular neurons as well as post-proliferative IGPs toward differentiation into Bergmann glia.
Mathematical Anxiety among Primary Education Degree Students in the Post-Pandemic Era: A Case Study
Authors: Costado Dios María Teresa , Piñero Charlo José Carlos
Published: February 2024

The study of the affective domain has grown in relevance ever since educators and researchers showed its influence in the process of teaching and learning, playing a fundamental role in the evolution of student learning. Anxiety is one component of the affective domain. The study of mathematical anxiety in pre-service primary teachers at university is the focus of this study. We analyse mathematical anxiety by examining specific data from the sample (age, gender, the subjects they studied in upper-secondary education, and academic performance). One hundred and nineteen students from the Primary Education degree completed the mathematical anxiety questionnaire, obtaining an average anxiety score considered negative (3.08 above the neutral value of 3). The results show a high anxiety toward examinations (3.68) and a negative relation with academic performance. Furthermore, the results show that women, 19-year-old university students, and those from a humanities-based upper-secondary education present greater levels of anxiety than men, older students, or students from other areas of upper-secondary education, respectively. All values of mathematical anxiety are higher than pre-pandemic levels. We can conclude from the studied sample that the students show low–medium global anxiety over mathematics, medium anxiety over problem solving, and high anxiety about exams.
A Primer on Generative Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Kalota Faisal
Published: February 2024

Many educators and professionals in different industries may need to become more familiar with the basic concepts of artificial intelligence (AI) and generative artificial intelligence (Gen-AI). Therefore, this paper aims to introduce some of the basic concepts of AI and Gen-AI. The approach of this explanatory paper is first to introduce some of the underlying concepts, such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, deep learning, artificial neural networks, and large language models (LLMs), that would allow the reader to better understand generative AI. The paper also discusses some of the applications and implications of generative AI on businesses and education, followed by the current challenges associated with generative AI.
Simulation in the GPenSIM Environment of the Movement of Vehicles in the City Based on Their License Plate Numbers
Authors: Kossowski Tomasz , Samolej Sławomir , Davidrajuh Reggie
Published: February 2024

This paper uses colored Petri nets (PN) to develop a model of vehicle movement in a city. The modeler defines the number and location of crossroads, the connections between them, and how many vehicles are at the given points of the network. The vehicles are recognized by their license plate numbers, and it is possible to determine where they start their journey and where they are going. The algorithm proposed in this paper suggests the shortest vehicle route based on Dijkstra’s algorithm. This study focuses on improving route planning by considering road usage, which is determined by the starting and ending locations of vehicles (as if traffic cameras were identifying license plates). This approach will lead to optimal control of traffic lights (or vehicle navigation) to minimize traffic jams and make good use of all roads. Additionally, this paper shares the results of preliminary simulations using both colored and uncolored Petri nets in the GPenSIM environment.
Exploring Machine Learning for Predicting Cerebral Stroke: A Study in Discovery
Authors: Mia Rajib , Khanam Shapla , Mahjabeen Amira , Ovy Nazmul Hoque , Ghimire Deepak , Park Mi-Jin , Begum Mst Ismat Ara , Hosen A. S. M. Sanwar
Published: February 2024

Cerebral strokes, the abrupt cessation of blood flow to the brain, lead to a cascade of events, resulting in cellular damage due to oxygen and nutrient deprivation. Contemporary lifestyle factors, including high glucose levels, heart disease, obesity, and diabetes, heighten the risk of stroke. This research investigates the application of robust machine learning (ML) algorithms, including logistic regression (LR), random forest (RF), and K-nearest neighbor (KNN), to the prediction of cerebral strokes. Stroke data is collected from Harvard Dataverse Repository. The data includes—clinical, physiological, behavioral, demographic, and historical data. The Synthetic Minority Oversampling Technique (SMOTE), adaptive synthetic sampling (ADASYN), and the Random Oversampling Technique (ROSE) are used to address class imbalances to improve the accuracy of minority classes. To address the challenge of forecasting strokes from partial and imbalanced physiological data, this study introduces a novel hybrid ML approach by combining a machine learning method with an oversampling technique called ADASYN_RF. ADASYN is an oversampling technique used to resample the imbalanced dataset then RF is implemented on the resampled dataset. Also, other oversampling techniques and ML models are implemented to compare the results. Notably, the RF algorithm paired with ADASYN achieves an exceptional performance of 99% detection accuracy, exhibiting its dominance in stroke prediction. The proposed approach enables cost-effective, precise stroke prediction, providing a valuable tool for clinical diagnosis.
Enhancing Industrial IoT Network Security through Blockchain Integration
Authors: Bobde Yash , Narayanan Gokuleshwaran , Jati Manas , Raj Raja , Cvitić Ivan , Peraković Dragan
Published: February 2024

In the rapidly evolving landscape of industrial ecosystems, Industrial IoT networks face increasing security challenges. Traditional security methods often struggle to protect these networks adequately, posing risks to data integrity, confidentiality, and access control. Our research introduces a methodology that leverages blockchain technology to enhance the security and trustworthiness of IoT networks. This approach starts with sensor nodes collecting and compressing data, followed by encryption using the ChaCha20-Poly1305 algorithm and transmission to local aggregators. A crucial element of our system is the private blockchain gateway, which processes and classifies data based on confidentiality levels, determining their storage in cloud servers or the Interplanetary File System for enhanced security. The system’s integrity and authenticity are further reinforced through the proof of authority consensus mechanism. This system employs Zero Knowledge Proof challenges for device authorization, optimizing data retrieval while maintaining a delicate balance between security and accessibility. Our methodology contributes to mitigating vulnerabilities in Industrial IoT networks and is part of a broader effort to advance the security and operational efficiency of these systems. It reflects an understanding of the diverse and evolving challenges in IoT security, emphasizing the need for continuous innovation and adaptation in this dynamic field.
Analysis of the Operating Characteristics of a Photothermal Storage Coupled Power Station Based on the Life-Cycle-Extending Renovation of Retired Thermal Power Units
Authors: Wang Fangfang , Li Renjie , Zhao Guangjin , Xia Dawei , Wang Weishu
Published: February 2024

To address China’s small coal power units facing shutdown and retirement, which urgently need life cycle extension and renovation, a complete solar thermal storage simulation power generation system based on the original site of a decommissioned thermal power unit is developed using Ebsilon software in this study. The operational characteristics of the simulated system are studied in depth to build a system with integrity and stability that can carry out economic and stable power production. The results of simulation tests on the solar collector system and the thermal storage subsystem show that the energy storage rate of the energy storage subsystem is affected by light intensity and significantly increases at approximately 8:00 a.m. The annual power generation capacity of the system is influenced by the energy storage hours set by the energy storage subsystem, and the annual power generation capacity increases more significantly when the energy storage hours are controlled within the range of 5–8 h. The operating efficiency of the corresponding subsystem can be improved by selecting a suitable location for the light intensity required and controlling the effective reflectivity of the mirror field and the energy storage hours, which can ensure the system’s stable operation. The research results provide theoretical guidance for reusing and transforming retired thermal power units.
Research on the Construction and Application of Rural Digital Design Ecosystem under the “Dual Carbon” Goal—Take the Carbon Sequestration Benefits of Street Trees in Nanjing’s Bulao Village as an Example
Authors: Zhu Yueru , Wang Siyu , Li Qingqing , Sheng Qianqian , Liu Yanli , Zhu Zunling
Published: February 2024

By constructing a rural digital design ecosystem, this paper develops ecological villages through design empowerment, enhances the carbon sequestration benefits of plants in rural areas, and strengthens rural vitality. Combined with the carbon sequestration benefits of street trees in Bulao Village in Nanjing, the feasibility of the digital design ecosystem in rural planning was verified, and the ways and methods of rural environmental renewal were explored. Through the existing literature, the possibility of constructing a digital design ecosystem was deduced, the theoretical framework was derived, field research was carried out in the village of Bulao, the carbon sequestration benefit of street trees was quantified by the i-Tree model, and a structure chart of street trees, including breast diameter, tree height, type, etc., was formed. There were 35 species of street trees in Bulao Village, belonging to 33 genera in 22 families, including 19 species of trees, a total of 312 trees, and 16 species of shrubs. The street trees’ total carbon sink benefit was equivalent to RMB 30,327.47, a single street tree’s average carbon sequestration benefit was RMB 96.86, and the average CO2 absorption was 164.64 kg. The average CO2 absorption and single benefit of elm trees were the highest, reaching 465.48 kg·plant−1 and 186.81 RMB·plant−1, respectively. The CO2 absorption (185.13 kg) and the average benefit per plant (RMB 109.48) of the camphor tree were lower than those of the elm. However, because their number far exceeded that of elms, their total carbon sequestration benefit contribution was the highest, reaching RMB 25,837.28, accounting for 85.19% of the total benefit. In addition, the contribution rates of elm and willow’s total annual carbon sequestration benefits were also relatively high, reaching RMB 747.24 and RMB 710.04, respectively, accounting for 2.46% and 2.34% of the total benefits. This paper uses the digital design ecosystem’s theoretical framework to quantify street trees’ carbon sequestration benefits through field research. It optimizes and improves the plant allocation of parking lots in Bulao Village from the ecology and carbon sink perspectives. Practice shows that inheriting the connotation values of rural culture, improving the quality of the rural environment, and increasing residents’ and tourists’ sense of belonging and identity to the countryside are conducive to jointly promoting sustainable rural development against the background of “dual carbon”. Combining art design with quantitative scientific methods of ecological environment indicators provides a reference for future rural development.
Assessing Niche Dynamics and Population Connectivity in an Endangered Tree Species, Emmenopterys henryi: Implications for Conservation and Management
Authors: Feng Li , Wang Zheng-Yuan , Zhou Tao , Zhang Yong-Hua , Wang Yi-Han
Published: February 2024

Understanding the niche dynamic among distinct populations and delineating the dispersal corridors that exist between them under current climates is critical for elucidating the contemporary forces driving genetic divergence, facilitating population connectivity, and informing targeted conservation efforts, particularly for species exhibiting pronounced intraspecific lineages. In this study, we focus on evaluating the range and niche dynamics of the intraspecific lineages of Emmenopterys henryi and exploring potential patterns of population connectivity both within and across these lineages. Our findings unveiled a significant niche divergence between the two intraspecific lineages, characterized by limited overlap in climatic conditions and suitable ranges. Furthermore, our analysis of population connectivity revealed the presence of dispersal routes with varying degrees of connectivity within each lineage, while low connectivity was observed between the two lineages. Our results highlight the critical role of fine-scale ecological niche models (ENMs) and genetic connectivity analyses in elucidating the complexities of niche evolution and genetic connectivity, particularly for species with discrete intraspecific lineages. In addition, given the fact that rapid genetic erosion of species inhabiting the regions we focus on in this study is often associated with habitat loss and fragmentation, our findings will also offer valuable insights for designing targeted conservation strategies aimed at restoring connectivity and increasing local population sizes for this endangered species.