bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Automated Cough Analysis with Convolutional Recurrent Neural Network
Authors: Wang Yiping , Wahab Mustafaa , Hong Tianqi , Molinari Kyle , Gauvreau Gail M. , Cusack Ruth P. , Gao Zhen , Satia Imran , Fang Qiyin
Published: November 2024

Chronic cough is associated with several respiratory diseases and is a significant burden on physical, social, and psychological health. Non-invasive, real-time, continuous, and quantitative monitoring tools are highly desired to assess cough severity, the effectiveness of treatment, and monitor disease progression in clinical practice and research. There are currently limited tools to quantitatively measure spontaneous coughs in daily living settings in clinical trials and in clinical practice. In this study, we developed a machine learning model for the detection and classification of cough sounds. Mel spectrograms are utilized as a key feature representation to capture the temporal and spectral characteristics of coughs. We applied this approach to automate cough analysis using 300 h of audio recordings from cough challenge clinical studies conducted in a clinical lab setting. A number of machine learning algorithms were studied and compared, including decision tree, support vector machine, k-nearest neighbors, logistic regression, random forest, and neural network. We identified that for this dataset, the CRNN approach is the most effective method, reaching 98% accuracy in identifying individual coughs from the audio data. These findings provide insights into the strengths and limitations of various algorithms, highlighting the potential of CRNNs in analyzing complex cough patterns. This research demonstrates the potential of neural network models in fully automated cough monitoring. The approach requires validation in detecting spontaneous coughs in patients with refractory chronic cough in a real-life setting.
Molecular Variation and Phylogeny of Thymidylate Kinase Genes of Candidatus Phytoplasma ziziphi from Different Resistant and Susceptible Jujube Cultivars in China
Authors: Song Chuan-Sheng , Xu Qi-Cong , Wan Cui-Ping , Kong De-Zhi , Lin Cai-Li , Yu Shao-Shuai
Published: November 2024

The thymidylate kinase (tmk) gene is indispensable for the proliferation and survival of phytoplasma. To reveal the molecular variation and phylogeny of the tmk genes of Candidatus phytoplasma ziziphi, in this study, the tmk genes of 50 phytoplasma strains infecting different resistant and susceptible jujube cultivars from different regions in China were amplified and analyzed. Two sequence types, tmk-x and tmk-y, were identified using clone-based sequencing. The JWB phytoplasma strains were classified into three types, type-X, type-Y, and type-XY, based on the sequencing chromatograms of the tmk genes. The type-X and type-Y strains contained only tmk-x and tmk-y genes, respectively. The type-XY strain contained both tmk-x and tmk-y genes. The type-X, type-Y, and type-XY strains comprised 42%, 12%, and 46% of all the strains, respectively. The type-X and type-XY strains were identified in both susceptible and resistant jujube cultivars, while type-Y strain was only identified in susceptible cultivars. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that the tmk genes of the phytoplasmas were divided into two categories: phylo-S and phylo-M. The phylo-S tmk gene was single-copied in the genome, with an evolutionary pattern similar to the 16S rRNA gene; the phylo-M tmk gene was multi-copied, related to PMU-mediated within-genome transposition and between-genome transfer. Furthermore, the phylogenetic tree suggested that the tmk genes shuttled between the genomes of the Paulownia witches’ broom phytoplasma and JWB phytoplasma. These findings provide insights into the evolutionary and adaptive mechanisms of phytoplasmas.
Label-Free Quantitative Proteomics Analysis of Nasal Lavage Fluid in Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyposis
Authors: Kashoob Musallam , Masood Afshan , Alfadda Assim A. , Joy Salini Scaria , Alluhaim Wed , Nawaz Shahid , Abaalkhail Mashal , Alotaibi Omar , Alsaleh Saad , Benabdelkamel Hicham
Published: November 2024

(1) Background: Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a common chronic inflammation of the nasal mucosa and the paranasal sinuses. The pathogenesis of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is multifactorial and, as of yet, not well understood. (2) Methods: Nasal lavage fluid samples were collected from patients diagnosed with chronic sinusitis with nasal polyposis (CRSwNP) (n = 10) and individuals without sinusitis (control group) (n = 10) who had no nasal complaints. In the present study, we used an untargeted label-free LC-MS/MS mass spectrometric approach combined with bioinformatics and network pathway analysis to compare the changes in the proteomic profiles of the CRSwNP group and the control group. Data from LC-MS/MS underwent univariate and multivariate analyses. (3) Results: The proteomic analyses revealed distinct differences in the abundances of nasal lavage fluid proteins between the CRSwNP and control groups: a total of 234 proteins, 151 up- and 83 down-regulated in CRSwNP. Functional Gene Ontology (GO) analysis showed that dysregulated proteins were involved in airway inflammatory reaction, immune response, and oxidative stress. The biomarkers were evaluated using the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve; an Area Under the Curve (AUC) of 0.999 (95% CI) identified potential biomarkers between the CRSwNP and control group. EMILIN-3 and RAB11-binding protein RELCH were down-regulated, and Macrophage migration inhibitory factor and deoxyribonuclease-1 were up-regulated, in CRSwNP compared to the control group. (4) Conclusions: These differentially expressed proteins identified in CRSwNP are involved in airway inflammatory reaction, immune response, and oxidative stress. In particular, the identification of increased interleukin-36 gamma (IL-36γ), which contributes to inflammatory response, and a decrease in SOD, in this group are notable findings. In the future, several of these proteins may prove useful for exploring the pathogenesis of nasal polyps and chronic sinusitis or as objective biomarkers for quantitatively monitoring disease progression or response to therapy.
The Existence of an Intra-Amniotic Microbiome: Assessing a Controversy
Authors: Uddipto Kumar , Quinlivan Julie A. , Mendz George L.
Published: November 2024

The existence of intra-amniotic and placental microbiomes during pregnancy has been the source of considerable debate, with research yielding conflicting evidence. This study evaluated investigations into the putative presence of these microbiomes in healthy pregnancies by identifying design and data interpretation issues, particularly concerning contamination in samples with low-density bacterial DNA. Positive findings from diverse populations suggest a consistent presence of microbiota in the intra-amniotic space. Negative conclusions regarding the existence of these prenatal microbiomes emphasise the impact of contamination in the analysis of samples with low-density bacterial DNA. This study concluded that there is no definitive evidence to refute the existence of intra-amniotic microbiomes in healthy pregnancies. Also, it provides suggestions for controlling potential contamination factors in future research on intra-amniotic and placental microbial populations.
The Role of the CPT Family in Cancer: Searching for New Therapeutic Strategies
Authors: Duan Yanxia , Liu Jiaxin , Li Ailin , Liu Chang , Shu Guang , Yin Gang
Published: November 2024

Along with abnormalities in glucose metabolism, disturbances in the balance of lipid catabolism and synthesis have emerged as a new area of cancer metabolism that needs to be studied in depth. Disturbances in lipid metabolic homeostasis, represented by fatty acid oxidation (FAO) imbalance, leading to activation of pro-cancer signals and abnormalities in the expression and activity of related metabolically critical rate-limiting enzymes, have become an important part of metabolic remodeling in cancer. The FAO process is a metabolic pathway that facilitates the breakdown of fatty acids into CO2 and H2O and releases large amounts of energy in the body under aerobic conditions. More and more studies have shown that FAO provides an important energy supply for the development of cancer cells. At the same time, the CPT family, including carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1 (CPT1) and carnitine palmitoyltransferase 2 (CPT2), are key rate-limiting enzymes for FAO that exert a pivotal influence on the genesis and progression of neoplastic growth. Therefore, we look at molecular structural properties of the CPT family, the roles they play in tumorigenesis and development, the target drugs, and the possible regulatory roles of CPTs in energy metabolism reprogramming to help understand the current state of CPT family research and to search for new therapeutic strategies.
Fibroblast-Specific Protein-Protein Interactions for Myocardial Fibrosis from MetaCore Network
Authors: Frahm Klaus M. , Kotelnikova Ekaterina , Kunduzova Oksana , Shepelyansky Dima L.
Published: November 2024

Myocardial fibrosis is a major pathologic disorder associated with a multitude of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). The pathogenesis is complex and encompasses multiple molecular pathways. Integration of fibrosis-associated genes into the global MetaCore network of protein-protein interactions (PPI) offers opportunities to identify PPI with functional and therapeutic significance. Here, we report the generation of a fibrosis-focused PPI network and identification of fibroblast-specific arbitrators driving reparative and reactive myocardial fibrosis. In TGF-β-mediated fibroblast activation, developed network analysis predicts new regulatory mechanisms for fibrosis-associated genes. We introduce an efficient Erdös barrage approach to suppress activation of a number of fibrosis-associated nodes in order to reverse fibrotic cascades. In the network model each protein node is characterized by an Ising up or down spin corresponding to activated or repairing state acting on other nodes being initially in a neutral state. An asynchronous Monte Carlo process describes fibrosis progression determined by a dominant action of linked proteins. Our results suggest that the constructed Ising Network Fibrosis Interaction model offers network insights into fibrosis mechanisms and can complement future experimental efforts to counteract cardiac fibrosis.
Mitigating Increased Cardiovascular Risk in Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea Using GLP-1 Receptor Agonists and SGLT2 Inhibitors: Hype or Hope?
Authors: Karakasis Paschalis , Sagris Marios , Patoulias Dimitrios , Koufakis Theocharis , Theofilis Panagiotis , Klisic Aleksandra , Fragakis Nikolaos , El Tanani Mohamed , Rizzo Manfredi
Published: November 2024

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a prevalent condition associated with increased cardiovascular risk, particularly in individuals with comorbid obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2D). Despite the widespread use of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) for OSA management, adherence remains suboptimal, and CPAP has not consistently demonstrated reductions in surrogate cardiovascular events. Recently, attention has focused on glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) and sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors as potential therapeutic agents for mitigating cardiovascular risk in OSA patients. These agents, originally developed for T2D management, have demonstrated pleiotropic effects, including significant weight loss, blood pressure reduction, and amelioration of endothelial dysfunction and arterial stiffness, along with anti-inflammatory benefits, which may be particularly beneficial in OSA. Emerging clinical evidence suggests that GLP-1RAs and SGLT2 inhibitors can reduce OSA severity and improve daytime sleepiness, potentially reversing the adverse cardiovascular effects observed in OSA. This review explores the pathophysiological mechanisms linking OSA with cardiovascular disease and evaluates the potential therapeutic roles of GLP-1RAs and SGLT2 inhibitors in addressing cardiovascular risk in OSA patients. Further research, including long-term clinical trials, is necessary to establish the effectiveness of these therapies in reducing cardiovascular events and improving patients’ reported outcomes in this population.
The Potential of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Treating Spinocerebellar Ataxia: Advances and Future Directions
Authors: Lee Gi Beom , Park Se Min , Jung Un Ju , Kim Sang Ryong
Published: November 2024

Spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA) is a heterogeneous disorder characterized by impaired balance and coordination caused by cerebellar dysfunction. The absence of treatments approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for SCA has driven the investigation of alternative therapeutic strategies, including stem cell therapy. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), known for their multipotent capabilities, have demonstrated significant potential in treating SCA. This review examines how MSCs may promote neuronal growth, enhance synaptic connectivity, and modulate brain inflammation. Recent findings from preclinical and clinical studies are also reviewed, emphasizing the promise of MSC therapy in addressing the unmet needs of SCA patients. Furthermore, ongoing clinical trials and future directions are proposed to address the limitations of the current approaches.
Multi-Strategy Enhanced Parrot Optimizer: Global Optimization and Feature Selection
Authors: Chen Tian , Yi Yuanyuan
Published: November 2024

Optimization algorithms are pivotal in addressing complex problems across diverse domains, including global optimization and feature selection (FS). In this paper, we introduce the Enhanced Crisscross Parrot Optimizer (ECPO), an improved version of the Parrot Optimizer (PO), designed to address these challenges effectively. The ECPO incorporates a sophisticated strategy selection mechanism that allows individuals to retain successful behaviors from prior iterations and shift to alternative strategies in case of update failures. Additionally, the integration of a crisscross (CC) mechanism promotes more effective information exchange among individuals, enhancing the algorithm’s exploration capabilities. The proposed algorithm’s performance is evaluated through extensive experiments on the CEC2017 benchmark functions, where it is compared with ten other conventional optimization algorithms. Results demonstrate that the ECPO consistently outperforms these algorithms across various fitness landscapes. Furthermore, a binary version of the ECPO is developed and applied to FS problems on ten real-world datasets, demonstrating its ability to achieve competitive error rates with reduced feature subsets. These findings suggest that the ECPO holds promise as an effective approach for both global optimization and feature selection.
Digital Imaging and Artificial Intelligence in Infantile Hemangioma: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Mohamed Nour , Rabie Tamer
Published: November 2024

Infantile hemangioma (IH) is a vascular anomaly observed in newborns, with potential severe complications if left undetected. Consequently, researchers have turned to artificial intelligence (AI) and digital imaging (DI) methods for detection, segmentation, and assessing the treatment response in IH cases. This paper conducts a systematic literature review (SLR) following the Kitchenham framework to scrutinize the utilization of AI and digital imaging techniques in IH applications. A total of 21 research articles spanning from 2014 to April 2024 were carefully selected and analyzed to address four key research questions: the issues solved in IH using AI and DI, the most-used AI and DI techniques, the best-performing technique in detecting IH, and the limitations and future directions in the various fields of IH. After an extensive review of the selected articles, it was found that 10 of the 21 articles focused on detecting IH, and 15 articles utilized AI. However, the best-performing technique in detecting IH employed DI. Additionally, the SLR offers insights and recommendations into future directions for IH applications.
Mimicking Marker Spread After Disruption of the Blood–Brain Barrier with a Collagen-Based Hydrogel Phantom
Authors: Vanina Anastasia S. , Lavrova Anastasia I. , Safonov Dmitry A. , Sychev Alexander V. , Proskurkin Ivan S. , Postnikov Eugene B.
Published: November 2024

Recent studies of the spread of substances penetrating the disrupted blood–brain barrier have revealed that the spread in the parenchyma surrounding a vessel has a complex character. In particular, a flow-like motion occurred for a short time that exhibits a smooth transition to diffusional spread. To address the possible physical background of such behavior, we created a system formed by a hydrogel medium with a channel filled by a marker solution, which can serve as a physical model mimicking the process of a substance passively spreading to the brain’s parenchyma when the blood–brain barrier is disrupted. The key result obtained in this work consists of the conclusion that the above-mentioned two-stage character of the spread process discovered in a previous biophysical experiment on the blood–brain opening in a living mouse may originate from the specificity of transport in porous soft matter with relaxation. We propose a mathematical model based on the extended Cattaneo equation, which reproduces our experimental data; determines the crossover time coinciding with that found in the biological system; and, therefore, provides a means of interpretation of this phenomenon.
Simulation of a Bio-Inspired Flocking-Based Aggregation Behaviour in Swarm Robotics
Authors: Rasouli Samira , Dautenhahn Kerstin , Nehaniv Chrystopher L.
Published: November 2024

This paper presents a biologically inspired flocking-based aggregation behaviour of a swarm of mobile robots. Aggregation behaviour is essential to many swarm systems, such as swarm robotics systems, in order to accomplish complex tasks that are impossible for a single agent. In this work, we developed a robot controller using Reynolds’ flocking rules to coordinate the movements of multiple e-puck robots during the aggregation process. To improve aggregation behaviour among these robots and address the scalability issues in current flocking-based aggregation approaches, we proposed using a K-means algorithm to identify clusters of agents. Using the developed controller, we simulated the aggregation behaviour among the swarm of robots. Five experiments were conducted using Webots simulation software. The performance of the developed system was evaluated under a variety of environments and conditions, such as various obstacles, agent failure, different numbers of robots, and arena sizes. The results of the experiments demonstrated that the proposed algorithm is robust and scalable. Moreover, we compared our proposed algorithm with another implementation of the flocking-based self-organizing aggregation behaviour based on Reynolds’ rules in a swarm of e-puck robots. Our algorithm outperformed this method in terms of cohesion performance and aggregation completion time.
Improved Osprey Optimization Algorithm with Multi-Strategy Fusion
Authors: Lei Wenli , Han Jinping , Wu Xinghao
Published: November 2024

The osprey optimization algorithm (OOA) is an effective metaheuristic algorithm. Although the OOA has the characteristics of strong optimality-seeking ability and fast convergence speed, it also has the disadvantages of imbalance between global exploration and local exploitation ability, easily falling into local optima in the later stage, and reduced population diversity and convergence speed. Therefore, this paper proposes an improved osprey optimization algorithm (IOOA) with multi-strategy fusion. First, Fuch chaotic mapping is used to initialize the ospreys’ population and increase the population diversity. Then, an adaptive weighting factor is introduced in the exploration phase of the algorithm to help the algorithm improve the convergence accuracy. The Cauchy variation strategy is integrated in the algorithm’s exploitation stage to enhance the diversity of the ospreys’ population and avoid falling into local optima. Finally, a Warner mechanism for the sparrow search algorithm is introduced to coordinate the algorithm’s local optimization and global search capabilities. The IOOA with various optimization algorithms is tested in a simulation for 10 benchmark test functions and 15 CEC2017 test functions, and non-parametric tests are performed on the IOOA. Experimental results show that the IOOA achieves improved accuracy and stability. The application of the IOOA to the three-bar truss engineering design problem further verifies its superiority in dealing with practical optimization problems.
Construct Validity of a Wearable Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) in Measuring Postural Sway and the Effect of Visual Deprivation in Healthy Older Adults
Authors: Ferrari Luca , Bochicchio Gianluca , Bottari Alberto , Scarton Alessandra , Lucertini Francesco , Pogliaghi Silvia
Published: November 2024

Inertial Motor sensors (IMUs) are valid instruments for measuring postural sway but their ability to detect changes derived from visual deprivation in healthy older adults requires further investigations. We examined the validity and relationship of IMU sensor-derived postural sway measures compared to force plates for different eye conditions in healthy older adults (32 females, 33 males). We compared the relationship of the center of mass and center of pressure (CoM and CoP)-derived total length, root means square (RMS) distance, mean velocity, and 95% confidence interval ellipse area (95% CI ellipse area). In addition, we examined the relationship of the IMU sensor in discriminating between open- (EO) and closed-eye (EC) conditions compared to the force plate. A significant effect of the instruments and eye conditions was found for almost all the variables. Overall, EO and EC variables within (force plate r, from 0.38 to 0.78; IMU sensor r, from 0.36 to 0.69) as well as between (r from 0.50 to 0.88) instruments were moderately to strongly correlated. The EC:EO ratios of RMS distance and 95% CI ellipse area were not different between instruments, while there were significant differences between total length (p = 0.973) and mean velocity (p = 0.703). The ratios’ correlation coefficients between instruments ranged from moderate (r = 0.65) to strong (r = 0.87). The IMU sensor offers an affordable, valid alternative to a force plate for objective, postural sway assessment.
The Effect of Autism Spectrum Disorder on Family Mental Health: Challenges, Emotional Impact, and Coping Strategies
Authors: Sánchez Amate José Jesús , Luque de la Rosa Antonio
Published: November 2024

Background: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) impacts not only diagnosed individuals, but also significantly affects the quality of life of both primary and secondary caregivers. These effects are particularly pronounced when compared to caregivers of individuals with other neurodevelopmental disorders. The emotional and physical demands of caring for someone with ASD can profoundly alter family dynamics and interpersonal relationships, creating challenges that require a comprehensive approach to be understood and addressed. Methods: The methodological design is a narrative review study, based on a search conducted during May, June, July, and August 2024 in the Scopus, Dialnet, and WoS databases concerning the object of study. As a result, a total of 197 articles were qualitatively analyzed. Of these, 36 articles were selected for a more detailed qualitative analysis, leading to a final sample of 14 documents. The selected studies were examined through qualitative content analysis. The inclusion criteria for this selection were as follows: empirical studies or research published in English or Spanish; open access via the Internet; categories limited to “education/educational research” relevant to the proposed objectives; and specific documents related to students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Results: The care of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has a significant and multifaceted impact on family life, deeply affecting the mental health of caregivers. These effects manifest in the form of chronic stress, anxiety, and interpersonal difficulties, altering family dynamics. The quality of life of caregivers varies depending on the coping strategies they employ, which are crucial for their emotional well-being. Conclusions: Understanding and optimizing these strategies is essential to mitigate the negative effects of caregiving and improving the overall well-being of families living with ASD.
The Interaction of Positive and Negative Relationship Characteristics and Their Association with Relationship and Individual Health Outcomes in Older Couples
Authors: Bartle-Haring Suzanne , Hu Jie , Mion Lorraine , Ash Millie
Published: November 2024

The purpose of this study was to examine how positive and negative relationship characteristics and their interaction were predictive of global relationship happiness, psychological symptoms, and physical health in a large sample of older couples. The NSHAP Wave 2 partner data n = 955) were used to estimate both actor (within person) and partner (between person) effects using the Actor Partner Interdependence Model with Moderation. Global relationship happiness was predicted by the interaction of positive and negative characteristics, suggesting that more positive characteristics are only predictive of greater happiness in the presence of some negative characteristics. Male partners’ depressive symptoms were predicted by the female partners’ interaction of positive and negative characteristics, suggesting that negative characteristics were only associated with male partner depressive symptoms when positive characteristics were rated very low by their partner. Positive and negative characteristics were predictive of anxiety and stress but not their interaction, and only the male partner’s perception of positive characteristics was predictive of the female partner’s physical health. These results are discussed in the context of controversy over the measurement of relationship satisfaction in the field.
A Mixed-Methods Study Exploring Coping Self-Insights Associated with Resilience
Authors: Bucknell Kirsten J. , Hoare Scott , Kangas Maria , Karin Eyal , Crane Monique F.
Published: November 2024

Self-insight has been associated with psychological resilience; however, less is understood about the role coping-specific self-insights play in strengthening resilience. This study used a convergent mixed-methods approach to investigate the coping self-insights triggered by self-reflection on coping experiences and their effects on perceived resilience. Australian ministry workers (n = 79) provided up to five qualitative self-reflective workbook entries, and quantitative online self-report survey responses before and six months after training. Hierarchical regression analyses of weighted quantized coping-specific self-insights on perceived resilience were conducted. Results suggest two pathways for the strengthening of resilience. A set of three self-insights related to greater perceived resilience appear to reinforce and sustain resilient beliefs across six months to increase perceived resilience. Another set of four self-insights is related to lesser perceived resilience after six months. It is suggested that the first set of self-insights may enhance beliefs that support resilience in the mid-term, whereas the second set may promote self-awareness that reduces perceived resilience in the mid-term. These findings support further exploration of coping self-insights, and the use and on-going testing of self-reflection resilience training.
A Study of the Tennis Trust-Based System on the Psychology and Cognition of Amateur Tennis Enthusiasts
Authors: Yang Fanghuan , Kwak Yi-Sub
Published: November 2024

Currently, amateur tennis events are developing rapidly, and the trust system has become a common rule, integrating considerations of entertainment, fitness, and cost control. However, human-centered trust system rules still face some controversy, and there is limited specialized research on the topic. This study explores amateur tennis players’ perceptions of the trust system rules. Using focus group discussions and interviews, we collected semi-structured interview data from 23 participants in tennis events. Based on grounded theory and the perceptual cycle model (PCM) framework, we developed a theoretical model of the tennis trust system and a model of the operational mechanism of the tennis trust system. Based on the grounded theory model results, four main factors influencing the tennis trust system were identified: interest orientation, information acquisition and judgment, communication and interaction, and development strategies. The operational mechanism model based on the PCM framework explains that the functioning of the tennis trust system includes five stages: foundation stage, trust-based emergence stage, monitor and detect stage, anticipate and respond stage, and development improvement stage. Among these stages, the anticipate and respond stage is crucial for the effectiveness of the trust system and is also the stage most prone to controversy. To address this, we propose targeted improvements to enhance the fairness of the tennis trust system and meet the needs of amateur tennis events.
Physical Fitness, Executive Functions, and Academic Performance in Children and Youth: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Fernandes Valter , Silva Arthur , Carvalho Andrea , Ribeiro Sidarta , Deslandes Andrea
Published: November 2024

The aim of this cross-sectional study was to investigate the relationship between physical fitness, executive function, and academic performance in children and adolescents. A total of 131 students (49% female) aged 10–15 years from a public school in Rio de Janeiro were assessed in executive functions (hearts and flowers, Corsi’s block, and digit span tasks), academic performance (Portuguese, reading, math, and overall school grade), physical tests (touch test disc, agility, lower limb and upper limb explosive strength), and anthropometric measurements. Regression results showed that the composite of sports-related fitness measures was the best predictor of executive functions (β = 0.472; t = −6.075 p < 0.001). Decision tree classifier analysis showed that the combination of factors that discriminated better and worse executive function groups were better performance in hand–eye coordination (TTD), math, and upper limb strength (ULEST). Sports-related fitness is significantly correlated with executive function. Hand–eye motor coordination has been identified as the most important predictor of improved cognitive outcomes, surpassing even academic skills. These findings should be considered in the design of physical activity programs in school settings, which may have a positive impact on child development, reflected in the reduction of academic and socioeconomic disparities.
Succession, Identity, and Consumption Scale of Prescriptive Ageism: Italian Validation and Invariance by Gender and Age
Authors: Donizzetti Anna Rosa , Curcio Cristina , North Michael S.
Published: November 2024

The aim of the work was to achieve the Italian validation of the Succession, Identity, and Consumption Scale of Prescriptive Ageism (SIC) developed by North and Fiske. SIC is a measure of prescriptive ageism, which incorporates intergenerational tensions over practical and symbolic resources. To evaluate the psychometric properties of the Italian version of the scale, two studies were conducted. Study 1 included 931 Italian participants (mean age: 30.94; range: 18–67 years; 50.5% female) and was conducted to test the scale’s structure and construct validity. Study 2 comprised 1015 Italian participants (mean age: 30.73 years; age range: 18–67; 53.5% female) and investigated the scale’s structure, construct validity, and invariance by gender and age. Confirmatory factorial analyses confirmed the three-factor solution to be invariant across sex and age groups. The scale also demonstrated high internal reliability. SIC scores correlated positively with traditional measures for detecting prejudice and stereotypes towards older people. The results of the present work show that the SIC scale of Prescriptive Ageism is a valid tool for measuring prescriptive beliefs about older adults that are the basis of intergenerational tensions.
Correction: Zhou et al. Optimization of Blasting Parameters Considering Both Vibration Reduction and Profile Control: A Case Study in a Mountain Hard Rock Tunnel. Buildings 2024, 14, 1421
Authors: Zhou Junjie , Gao Shan , Luo Pingkuang , Fan Jiale , Zhao Congcong
Published: November 2024

Missing Citation [...]
Evaluation of Resettled Residents’ Engagement in Community Gardens and Preferences for Garden Development Factors in Beijing
Authors: Liu Ye , Ma Mingxin , Zhou Siqiao
Published: November 2024

Resettlement communities arising from China’s urbanization process accommodate both landless resettled villagers and non-resettled villagers who migrate to cities for work. Community gardens help increase interactions in resettlement communities and facilitate the integration of resettled residents into the community. This paper, based on the differing characteristics of resettled and non-resettled villagers in China’s resettlement communities and the scarcity of outdoor public space, studies the participation willingness of resettled residents and their preferences for the construction of community gardens. Firstly, this study establishes a system of community garden construction elements for resettlement communities and conducts a Likert scale survey of residents in 30 resettlement communities in Beijing (n = 832). Secondly, variance analysis is used to explore the impact of demographic characteristics on garden preferences. Finally, a multiple linear regression model is employed to study the correlation between resettled residents’ willingness to participate in community gardens and the construction elements. The results show that (1) both resettled villagers and non-villagers have a willingness to participate in community gardens, and the spatial enhancement, facility supplementation, economic compensation, community integration, and identity recognition of garden construction elements are positively correlated with residents’ willingness to participate, with spatial enhancement having the strongest effect; (2) community gardens help achieve integration between resettled and non-resettled villagers; (3) gardens help enhance the identity recognition of resettled villagers. In summary, integrating community gardens into resettlement communities helps increase residents’ social interactions, enhances their sense of belonging, and assists resettled residents in integrating into urban society.
The Influence of Environmental Factors, Perception, and Participation on Industrial Heritage Tourism Satisfaction—A Study Based on Multiple Heritages in Shanghai
Authors: Fang Zhiguo , Yao Jiachen , Shi Jianing
Published: November 2024

With the increasing public awareness and strength of industrial heritage protection, industrial heritage plays an increasingly important role in tourism after transformation and upgrading. The influence of built environment factors and visitors’ participation on satisfaction has been fully confirmed, but the primary and secondary relationships between the two variables remain unclear. The purpose of this study is to explore the relationships between the built environment, tourist participation, and tourism satisfaction, and compare the actual loads of different routes to find the dominant variable. The data of this study came from three industrial heritage renovation projects in Shanghai with remarkable transformation results. Field investigations and questionnaire surveys were conducted on them, and a total of 362 valid samples were received. Descriptive statistical analysis and structural equation models were used to analyze the data. Two paths of “built environment–tourism satisfaction” and “tourist participation–tourism satisfaction” are compared and demonstrated. The path coefficient of the former is 0.63, while that of the latter is 0.77, and the influence of the latter is more significant than that of the former. The study creatively found the audience orientation of both sexes for different types of experience activities, confirmed the mediating effect of subjective perception, and provided the following suggestions for managers of built industrial cultural heritage. Interactive experiences and guided tours deepen visitors’ understanding of the historical and cultural value of industrial heritage. Virtual reality and augmented reality technologies can be introduced to provide an immersive visit experience and attract a wider audience to participate, effectively enhancing the attractiveness of and satisfaction with industrial heritage tourism.
Nanopore Sequencing for T-Cell Receptor Rearrangement Analysis in Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Cieslak Cassandra , Hain Carsten , Rückert-Reed Christian , Busche Tobias , Klages Levin Joe , Schaper-Gerhardt Katrin , Gutzmer Ralf , Kalinowski Jörn , Stadler Rudolf
Published: November 2024

Background: Analysis of T-cell receptor (TCR) clonality is a major diagnostic tool for lymphomas, particularly for cutaneous T-cell lymphomas (CTCL) like Mycosis fungoides and Sézary syndrome. However, a fast and cost-effective workflow is needed to enable widespread use of this method. Methods: We established a procedure for TCR rearrangement analysis via Oxford Nanopore Technology (ONT) sequencing. TCR receptor rearrangements (TCR-gamma and TCR-beta chains) were analyzed in samples from 45 patients with various diagnoses: Mycosis fungoides (37/45), Sézary Syndrome (2/45), folliculotropic CTCL (1/45), and non-CTCL diagnoses as polyclonal controls (5/45). Sample types included formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) samples (27/45), fresh frozen samples (9/45), and CD3-isolated cells (9/45). In addition, DNA of a Jurkat cell line was used as a monoclonal control. TCR amplicons were generated employing an optimized version of the protocol from the Euro Clonality consortium. Sequencing was conducted on the ONT GridION and Illumina MiSeq platforms, followed by similar bioinformatic analysis protocols. The tumor clone frequency (TCF), a crucial prognostic factor for CTCL patients, was used for method comparison. Results: The use of an optimized amplicon protocol and adapted bioinformatic tools demonstrated a strong correlation in TCF values between both sequencing methods across all sample types (range R: 0.992–0.996; range r2: 0.984–0.991). Conclusions: In summary, ONT sequencing was able to detect TCR clonality comparable to NGS, indicating its potential as a faster and more cost-effective option for routine diagnostic use.
Biocatalysis with Unconventional Yeasts
Authors: Andreu Cecilia , del Olmo Marcel·lí
Published: November 2024

Biocatalysis is a green and sustainable technology based on the use of natural substances to catalyze chemical reactions. Humans have been unconsciously using biocatalysis for thousands of years to produce food and alcoholic beverages, but it is only since the 19th century that we have begun to understand its fundamentals and its enormous potential. In fact, advances in our knowledge of enzymes and metabolic pathways and, in recent decades, the introduction of tools such as bioinformatics, DNA sequencing and protein engineering have made biocatalysis a key strategy in fine chemistry and for the production of active pharmaceutical ingredients. In addition, the discovery of new microorganisms adapted to adverse conditions has also been crucial in advancing this avenue. The present review focuses on the use of unconventional yeasts and their enzymes in the most interesting reactions where biocatalysis is applied. It highlights the advantages of using these microorganisms in industrial chemical processes due to their particular phenotypes, such as their ability to withstand high temperatures and pressures, as well as acidic or alkaline environments, high substrate loads, presence of organic solvents, etc. All this results in a wider range of possible substrates and higher efficiency. Examples of the most important reactions in which their use has been described are included, considering both catalysis by wild-type whole cells or their isolated enzymes and their genetically modified variants. All this information will help to understand the current relevance of unconventional yeasts and their enzymes in biocatalysis.
Influence of Partial Incineration and Optimized Acid Leaching on the Remanufacturing of Ni–Mo/γ–Al2O3 Catalysts
Authors: Na Woo-Jin , Park Ho-Ryong , Ryu Su-Jin , Kim Beom-Jun , Roh Hyun-Seog , Park Hea-Kyung
Published: November 2024

This study investigated the optimization of the remanufacturing process for spent Ni–Mo/γ-Al2O3 catalysts utilized in hydrodesulfurization (HDS) reactions. The proposed process encompasses essential steps, including oil washing, partial incineration, acid leaching, and complete incineration, aimed at restoring the physicochemical properties of the spent catalysts. The incorporation of partial incineration enhanced the removal of hydrocarbons and sulfur compounds, leading to notable recovery of surface area and pore volume. However, vanadium removal was insufficient with partial incineration alone, necessitating the use of an optimized acid-leaching step, where the leaching time was adjusted. The remanufactured catalysts demonstrated superior performance in HDS reactions compared to their fresh counterparts. The OPA(60)C catalyst, remanufactured through oil washing, partial incineration, 60 min of acid leaching, and complete incineration, exhibited the highest desulfurization efficiency. These findings highlight the critical role of impurity removal and the optimization of the acid-leaching duration in restoring catalyst activity. By enabling effective catalyst reuse, this process offers a sustainable and cost-effective solution for industrial applications.
Surface Alkali-Modified Nano-CeO2 for Atmospherically Catalytic Polycondensation of CO2 and Diol
Authors: Zhong Wenbin , Xiao Rongbin , Huang Sheng , Xiao Min , Wang Shuanjin , Han Dongmei , Meng Yuezhong
Published: November 2024

The polycondensation of carbon dioxide and diols under atmospheric pressure has significant appeal, thus making the study of catalysts in this process very important. Here, a series of CeO2-X catalysts (X = 9/11/13) with surface modification by basic sites was synthesized via simple impregnation in KOH solution. The structure and morphology of the CeO2-X catalysts remained unchanged after KOH treatment. However, the specific surface area of modified catalysts showed a slight decrease compared with the unmodified samples due to the notable enhancement of basic sites on the surface, resulting in improvement of CO2 adsorption capacity. Furthermore, the catalytic performance of the resultant CeO2-X catalysts was evaluated by solvent-free polymerization of 1,6-hexanediol (HDO) and CO2 at atmospheric pressure (0.1 MPa) using a well-designed reaction apparatus. As a result, the modified catalysts exhibited better performance for CO2 activation due to the existence of abundant basic sites on the surfaces, while CeO2-11 possessed the most favorable catalytic activity and displayed an enhancement of approximately 50% in production compared with that of unmodified CeO2.
Boosting the Efficiency of Titanium Oxides and Accelerating Industrial Pollutant Removal Through Triple-Action Effects to Purify Water by Light
Authors: Saber Osama , Awada Chawki , Osama Aya , Shaalan Nagih M. , Alshoaibi Adil , Mansour Shehab A. , Osama Mostafa , Farha Ashraf H.
Published: November 2024

Water is the source of life on Earth. Therefore, water pollution is one of the greatest problems in the world. On this basis, the current study focuses on accelerating industrial pollutant removal from water using light by designing effective photocatalysts. This target was achieved through a triple-action effect. This effect depends on the integration of the doping process with nanotube formation in addition to the surface plasmon resonance of gold for titanium oxides. In this way, titanium oxide nanoparticles were prepared and converted to nanotubes during the doping process. These nanoparticles and nanotubes were supported by gold nanoparticles to use this triple-action effect for increasing charge carriers and active sites of the photocatalysts and preventing recombination reactions. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and selected area electron diffraction (SAED), Raman spectra, energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometer (EDX), and X-ray diffraction were used to clarify the triple-action effect on the structure of the photocatalysts. The optical properties and activity of the prepared photocatalysts were studied in terms of the photocatalytic degradation of the green dyes (acid green 1). The experimental results indicated that the triple-action effect has a strong positive role in increasing industrial pollutant removal with or without light. Here, the percentage of photocatalytic decomposition reached 100% after 17 min of light radiation. In addition, 27% of the pollutants were removed without light radiation. In conclusion, the current study indicated that the triple-action effect could solve the drawbacks of titanium oxide by creating new photo-active sites and novel tracks for charge carriers in addition to preventing recombination reactions.
Hydrogen and CO Over-Equilibria in Catalytic Reactions of Methane Reforming
Authors: Trishch Vitaliy R. , Vilboi Mykhailo O. , Yablonsky Gregory S. , Kovaliuk Dmytro O.
Published: November 2024

Hydrogen and carbon monoxide over-equilibria have been found computationally in kinetic dependencies of methane-reforming catalytic reactions (steam and dry reforming) using the conditions of the conservatively perturbed equilibrium (CPE) phenomenon, i.e., at the initial equilibrium concentration of hydrogen or carbon monoxide. The influence of the pressure, temperature, flow rate and composition of the initial mixture on the position of the CPE point (the extremum point) was investigated over a wide domain of parameters. The CPE phenomenon significantly increases the product concentration (H2 and CO) at the reactor length, which is significantly less than the reactor length required to reach equilibrium. The CPE point is interpreted as the “turning point” in kinetic behaviour. Recommendations on temperature and pressure regimes are different from the traditional ones related to Le Chatelier’s law. The obtained results provide valuable information on optimal reaction conditions for complex reversible chemical transformations, offering potential applications in chemical engineering processes.