bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phosphaturic Mesenchymal Tumors with or without Phosphate Metabolism Derangements
Authors: Montanari Andrea , Pirini Maria Giulia , Lotrecchiano Ludovica , Di Prinzio Lorenzo , Zavatta Guido
Published: August 2023

Phosphaturic mesenchymal tumors (PMT) are rare neoplasms, which can give rise to a multifaceted syndrome, otherwise called tumor-induced osteomalacia (TIO). Localizing these tumors is crucial to obtain a cure for the phosphate metabolism derangement, which is often the main cause leading the patient to seek medical help, because of invalidating physical and neuromuscular symptoms. A proportion of these tumors is completely silent and may grow unnoticed, unless they become large enough to produce pain or discomfort. FGF-23 can be produced by several benign or malignant PMTs. The phosphate metabolism, radiology and histology of these rare tumors must be collectively assessed by a multidisciplinary team aimed at curing the disease locally and improving patients’ quality of life. This narrative review, authored by multiple specialists of a tertiary care hospital center, will describe endocrine, radiological and histological features of these tumors, as well as present surgical and interventional strategies to manage PMTs.
Anomaly Detection in Student Activity in Solving Unique Programming Exercises: Motivated Students against Suspicious Ones
Authors: Demidova Liliya A. , Sovietov Peter N. , Andrianova Elena G. , Demidova Anna A.
Published: August 2023

This article presents a dataset containing messages from the Digital Teaching Assistant (DTA) system, which records the results from the automatic verification of students’ solutions to unique programming exercises of 11 various types. These results are automatically generated by the system, which automates a massive Python programming course at MIREA—Russian Technological University (RTU MIREA). The DTA system is trained to distinguish between approaches to solve programming exercises, as well as to identify correct and incorrect solutions, using intelligent algorithms responsible for analyzing the source code in the DTA system using vector representations of programs based on Markov chains, calculating pairwise Jensen–Shannon distances for programs and using a hierarchical clustering algorithm to detect high-level approaches used by students in solving unique programming exercises. In the process of learning, each student must correctly solve 11 unique exercises in order to receive admission to the intermediate certification in the form of a test. In addition, a motivated student may try to find additional approaches to solve exercises they have already solved. At the same time, not all students are able or willing to solve the 11 unique exercises proposed to them; some will resort to outside help in solving all or part of the exercises. Since all information about the interactions of the students with the DTA system is recorded, it is possible to identify different types of students. First of all, the students can be classified into 2 classes: those who failed to solve 11 exercises and those who received admission to the intermediate certification in the form of a test, having solved the 11 unique exercises correctly. However, it is possible to identify classes of typical, motivated and suspicious students among the latter group based on the proposed dataset. The proposed dataset can be used to develop regression models that will predict outbursts of student activity when interacting with the DTA system, to solve clustering problems, to identify groups of students with a similar behavior model in the learning process and to develop intelligent data classifiers that predict the students’ behavior model and draw appropriate conclusions, not only at the end of the learning process but also during the course of it in order to motivate all students, even those who are classified as suspicious, to visualize the results of the learning process using various tools.
Usability Comparison between 2D and 3D Control Methods for the Operation of Hovering Objects
Authors: Lee Daeseong , Kim Hajun , Yoon Heesoo , Lee Wonsup
Published: August 2023

This paper experimentally analyzed the cognitive load of users based on different methods of operating hovering objects, such as drones. The traditional gamepad-type control method (2D) was compared with a control method that mapped the movement directions of the drone to the natural manipulation gestures of the user using a Leap Motion device (3D). Twenty participants operated the drone on an obstacle course using the two control methods. The drone’s trajectory was measured using motion-capture equipment with a reflective marker. The distance traveled by the drone, operation time, and trajectory smoothness were calculated and compared between the two control methods. The results showed that when the drone’s movements were mapped to the user’s natural directional gestures, the drone’s 3D movements were perceived as more natural and smoother. A more intuitive drone control method can reduce cognitive load and minimize operational errors, making it more user friendly and efficient. However, due to the users’ lack of familiarity with Leap Motion, it resulted in longer distance and time and lower subjective satisfaction; therefore, a more improved 3D control method over Leap Motion is needed to address the limitations.
An Image Encryption Algorithm Based on Improved Hilbert Curve Scrambling and Dynamic DNA Coding
Authors: Geng Shengtao , Li Jiahao , Zhang Xuncai , Wang Yanfeng
Published: August 2023

As an effective method for image security protection, image encryption is widely used in data hiding and content protection. This paper proposes an image encryption algorithm based on an improved Hilbert curve with DNA coding. Firstly, the discrete wavelet transform (DWT) decomposes the plaintext image by three-level DWT to obtain the high-frequency and low-frequency components. Secondly, different modes of the Hilbert curve are selected to scramble the high-frequency and low-frequency components. Then, the high-frequency and low-frequency components are reconstructed separately using the inverse discrete wavelet transform (IDWT). Then, the bit matrix of the image pixels is scrambled, changing the pixel value while changing the pixel position and weakening the strong correlation between adjacent pixels to a more significant correlation. Finally, combining dynamic DNA coding and ciphertext feedback to diffuse the pixel values improves the encryption effect. The encryption algorithm performs the scrambling and diffusion in alternating transformations of space, frequency, and spatial domains, breaking the limitations of conventional scrambling. The experimental simulation results and security analysis show that the encryption algorithm can effectively resist statistical attacks and differential attacks with good security and robustness.
Country Economic Security Monitoring Rapid Indicators System
Authors: Mityakov Sergei N. , Mityakov Evgenii S. , Ladynin Andrey I. , Nazarova Ekaterina A.
Published: August 2023

Time series analysis is a method of key importance for systems of various hierarchies’ economic security studies. This article’s main goal is to develop an economic security rapid indicators system, introducing threshold values and utilizing indices with a one-month sampling period, and its approbation during Russia’s economic security operational monitoring. In order to develop such a system, the authors accumulated economic security world experience including reliability, visibility and tree structure principles. The authors’ monitoring system includes four spheres: real economy, social, monetary and foreign economic, each of which contains three indicators. In order to organize economic security monitoring, it is proposed to use the index method, which converts indicators into a dimensionless form with integral values in subsequent calculations. Based on integral indices values, the economic security generalized index is synthesized, which can be used to analyze a system’s development trends. We present economic security normalized indicators and integral indices dynamics for the years 2020–2022, which show two crises dynamics. The first is due the COVID-19 pandemic, while the second is associated with economic sanctions against Russia, implemented in 2022. The proposed economic security operational monitoring indicators system can be used effectively in the government’s practical tasks in order to ensure the required level of economic security. This is especially true for rapid diagnosis of crisis phenomena in countries and individual regions.
Impact of Iron Oxide Nanoparticles on Anaerobic Co-Digestion of Cow Manure and Sewage Sludge
Authors: Alkhrissat Tariq , Kassab Ghada , Abdel-Jaber Mu’tasim
Published: August 2023

Supplementation with iron oxide nanoparticles has been suggested as a potential method for improving energy generation through anaerobic digestion, specifically by enhancing the rate of methane production. This investigation examined the effects of iron oxide (Fe3O4) nanoparticles (NPs) on anaerobic co-digestion of cow manure (CM) and sewage sludge (SS) through batch testing conducted under mesophilic conditions (35 °C) using a RESPIROMETRIC Sensor System 6 Maxi—BMP (RSS-BMP). The use of Fe3O4 nanoparticles at doses of 40, 80, 120, and 160 mg/L (batches M1, M2, M3, and M5) was studied. The use of 160 mg/L Fe3O4 nanoparticles in combination with mixtures of different ratios (M4, M5, and M6) was further investigated. The findings indicate that the addition of Fe3O4 nanoparticles at a concentration of 40 mg/L to anaerobic batches did not significantly impact the hydrolysis process and subsequent methane production. Exposing the samples to Fe3O4 NPs at concentrations of 80, 120, and 160 mg/L resulted in a similar positive effect, as evidenced by hydrolysis percentages of approximately 94%, compared to 60% for the control (C2). Furthermore, methane production also increased. The use of Fe3O4 nanoparticles at a concentration of 160 mg/L resulted in biodegradability of 97.3%, compared to 51.4% for the control incubation (C2). Moreover, the findings demonstrate that supplementing anaerobic batches with 160 mg/L Fe3O4 NPs at varying mixture ratios (M4, M5, and M6) had a significant impact on both hydrolysis and methane production. Specifically, hydrolysis percentages of 94.24, 98.74, and 96.78% were achieved for M4, M5, and M6, respectively, whereas the percentages for the control incubation (C1, C2, and C3) were only 56.78, 60.21, and 58.74%. Additionally, the use of 160 mg/L Fe3O4 NPs in mixtures M4, M5, and M6 resulted in biodegradability percentages of 78.4, 97.3, and 88.3%, respectively. In contrast, for the control incubation (C1, C2, and C3) biodegradability was only 44.24, 51.4, and 49.1%.
Numerical Analysis of Crashworthiness on Electric Vehicle’s Battery Case with Auxetic Structure
Authors: Scurtu Liviu I. , Szabo Ioan , Gheres Marius
Published: August 2023

Due to the reduction in pollutant emissions, the number of electric vehicles has experienced rapid growth in worldwide traffic. Vehicles equipped with batteries represent a greater danger of explosion and fire in the case of traffic accidents, which is why new protective systems and devices have been designed to improve impact safety. Through their design and construction, auxetic structures can ensure the efficient dissipation of impact energy, reducing the risk of battery damage and maintaining the safety of vehicle occupants. In this paper, we analyze the crashworthiness performance of a battery case equipped with an energy absorber with a particular shape based on a re-entrant auxetic model. Simulations were performed at a velocity of 10 m/s and applied to the battery case with a rigid impact pole, a configuration justified by most accidents occurring at a low velocity. The results highlight that by using auxetic structures in the construction of the battery case, the impact can be mitigated by the improved energy absorber placed around the battery case, which leads to a decrease in the number of damaged cells by up to 35.2%. In addition, the mass of the improved energy absorbers is lower than that of the base structure.
Evaluating Green Solvents for Bio-Oil Extraction: Advancements, Challenges, and Future Perspectives
Authors: Usman Muhammad , Cheng Shuo , Boonyubol Sasipa , Cross Jeffrey S.
Published: August 2023

The quest for sustainable and environmentally friendly fuel feedstocks has led to the exploration of green solvents for the extraction of bio-oil from various biomass sources. This review paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the challenges and future research outlooks for different categories of green extraction solvents, including bio-based solvents, water-based solvents, supercritical fluids, and deep eutectic solvents (DES). The background of each solvent category is discussed, highlighting their potential advantages and limitations. Challenges such as biomass feedstock sourcing, cost fluctuations, solvent properties variability, limited compatibility, solute solubility, high costs, and potential toxicity are identified and examined in detail. To overcome these challenges, future research should focus on alternative and abundant feedstock sources, the development of improved solubility and separation techniques, optimization of process parameters, cost-effective equipment design, standardization of DES compositions, and comprehensive toxicological studies. By addressing these challenges and advancing research in these areas, the potential of green extraction solvents can be further enhanced, promoting their widespread adoption and contributing to more sustainable and environmentally friendly industrial processes.
Mass Transfer Analysis of CO2-Water-Rock Geochemical Reactions in Reservoirs
Authors: Xu Rui , Yan Tie , Han Xu , Qu Jingyu , Feng Jinyu
Published: August 2023

It is difficult to exploit low-permeability reservoirs, and CO2 flooding is an effective method to improve oil recovery from low permeability reservoirs. However, in the process of CO2 flooding, acidic fluids dissolved in formation water will react with rock to cause dissolution and precipitation, resulting in pores and precipitates, changing the evolution law of seepage channels, destroying formation integrity, and affecting the effect of CO2 oil displacement. The change in rock’s physical properties and the mass transfer law between CO2-water-rock are unclear. This paper considers the coupling effects of seepage, mechanics, and chemistry when CO2 is injected into the formation. The mass transfer model of CO2-water-rock in the geochemical reaction process is established on this basis. The physical properties of the reservoir after CO2 injection are quantitatively studied based on the microscopic mechanism of chemical reaction, and the migration law of solute in the reservoir rock during CO2 flooding under the coupling effects of multiple fields is clarified. The experimental results show that with the increase in reaction time, the initial dissolution reaction of formation rocks will be transformed into a precipitation reaction of calcite, magnesite, and clay minerals. The porosity and permeability of the rocks near the well first increase and then decrease. The far well end is still dominated by dissolution reactions, and the average values of formation porosity and permeability show an upward trend. Although the dissolution reaction of CO2-water-rock can improve the physical properties of reservoir rocks to a certain extent, the mutual transformation of the dissolution reaction and precipitation reaction further exacerbates the heterogeneity of formation pore structure, leading to the instability of CO2 migration, uneven displacement, and destruction of formation stability. The research results of this paper solve the problem of quantitative calculation of physical parameters under the coupling effect of multiple fields after CO2 injection into reservoirs and can predict the changes in formation physical properties, which can provide a certain theoretical basis for evaluating formation integrity and adjusting CO2 injection under the condition of CO2 flooding.
Research on the Design of Carbon-Neutralized Building in Rural China: A Case Study of “Impression of Yucun”
Authors: Wang Qingqin , Zhou Lining , Zheng Liangji , Li Jiayu , Li Xiaoping , Zhou Haizhu
Published: August 2023

Energy conservation and emission reduction in rural buildings is essential to China’s response to climate change. Within the context of China’s ‘dual carbon’ initiative and the overarching goal of a ‘zero carbon countryside’, the first rural carbon-neutral building in China—‘Impression of Yucun’ was established in Anji County, Zhejiang Province. Accordingly, this study investigates building carbon-neutral design, calculating and analyzing the carbon emissions and offsets facilitated by carbon neutrality technology throughout the buildings’ life cycle. In addition, the comprehensive benefits of the buildings are evaluated from both technical and economic perspectives. The implementation pathway for rural carbon-neutral buildings is also explored. The results demonstrate that through the judicious application of carbon neutrality technology design, the inherent carbon emissions of the buildings amount to 120.91 t and the energy consumption during the operational phase of the building is 64,284.4 kWh/a, correlating to carbon emissions of 33.72 t. The case can theoretically reduce carbon emissions by 65.64 tCO2 annually by implementing carbon offset measures. Considering photovoltaic cell decay, the building can achieve a carbon-neutral state for the first time in the fifth year of operation, with a net carbon emission of −5.58 tCO2. Simultaneously, the investment in photovoltaic systems can be recouped between the seventh and ninth years of operation. This study can offer methodological reference and data support for designing and evaluating carbon-neutral buildings.
Bioactive Compounds and Health-Promoting Properties of Elephant Apple (Dillenia indica L.): A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Saikia Deepanka , Kesavan Radhakrishnan , Stephen Inbaraj Baskaran , Dikkala Praveen Kumar , Nayak Prakash Kumar , Sridhar Kandi
Published: August 2023

Elephant apple (Dillenia indica L.) grows wild in Southeast Asia’s forests, including in China, India, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. Elephant apples are considered essential fruit crops because of their high nutritional value, which includes high levels of vitamin C, carbohydrates, fats, fibre, protein, minerals, and fatty acids. It is important to understand the nutritional value and health benefits of elephant apples in order to increase fruit intake in people’s daily diets. The present review paper focuses on elephant apple’s phytochemistry, bioactive compounds, therapeutic value, and medicinal capabilities for designing and developing a wide range of food formulations. Proteins, minerals, fats, crude fibre, carbohydrates, vitamin C, tannins, malic acid, and glucose are abundant in the leaves, bark, and fruit of the elephant apple. In addition to nutritional components, many phytochemicals found in elephant apples have been identified as bioactive compounds with a broad range of biological activities, the most prominent of which are antioxidant, anticancer, antidiabetic, and anti-inflammatory properties. Overall, elephant apple is a rich, natural source of bioactive compounds with potential applications in the production of value-added foods and nutraceuticals for disease prevention and management.
A New Technique to Achieve Torsional Anchor of Fractional Torsion Equation Using Conservation Laws
Authors: Kadkhoda Nematollah , Lashkarian Elham , Jafari Hossein , Khalili Yasser
Published: August 2023

The main idea in this research is introducing another approximate method to calculate solutions of the fractional Torsion equation, which is one of the applied equations in civil engineering. Since the fractional order is closed to an integer, we convert the fractional Torsion equation to a perturbed ordinary differential equation involving a small parameter epsilon. Then we can find the exact solutions and approximate symmetries for the alternative approximation equation. Also, with help of the definition of conserved vector and the concept of nonlinear self-adjointness, approximate conservation laws(ACL) are obtained without approximate Lagrangians by using their approximate symmetries. In order to apply the presented theory, we apply the Lie symmetry analysis (LSA) and concept of nonlinear self-adjoint Torsion equation, which are very important in mathematics and engineering sciences, especially civil engineering.
New Properties and Sets Derived from the 2-Ball Fractal Dust
Authors: Aguirre-López Mario A. , Márquez-Urbina José Ulises , Hueyotl-Zahuantitla Filiberto
Published: August 2023

Due to their practicality and convenient parametrization, fractals derived from iterated function systems (IFSs) constitute powerful tools widely used to model natural and synthetic shapes. An IFS can generate sets other than fractals, extending its application field. Some of such sets arise from IFS fractals by adding minimal modifications to their defining rule. In this work, we propose two modifications to a fractal recently introduced by the authors: the so-called 2-ball fractal dust, which consists of a set of balls diminishing in size along an iterative process and delimited by an enclosing square. The proposed modifications are (a) adding a resizer parameter to introduce an interaction between the generator and generated ball elements and (b) a new fractal embedded into the 2-ball fractal dust, having the characteristic of filling zones not covered by the previous one. We study some numerical properties of both modified resulting sets to gain insights into their general properties. The resulting sets are geometrical forms with potential applications. Notably, the first modification generates an algorithm capable of producing geometric structures similar to those in mandalas and succulent plants; the second modification produces shapes similar to those found in nature, such as bubbles, sponges, and soil. Then, although a direct application of our findings is beyond the scope of this research, we discuss some clues of possible uses and extensions among which we can remark two connections: the first one between the parametrization we propose and the mandala patterns, and the second one between the embedded fractal and the grain size distribution of rocks, which is useful in percolation modeling.
Xanthan-Gum/Pluronic-F-127-Based-Drug-Loaded Polymeric Hydrogels Synthesized by Free Radical Polymerization Technique for Management of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Suhail Muhammad , Chiu I-Hui , Lai Yi-Ru , Khan Arshad , Al-Sowayan Noorah Saleh , Ullah Hamid , Wu Pao-Chu
Published: August 2023

Smart and intelligent xanthan gum/pluronic F-127 hydrogels were fabricated for the controlled delivery of atomoxetine HCl. Different parameters such as DSC, TGA, FTIR, XRD, SEM, drug loading, porosity, swelling index, drug release, and kinetics modeling were appraised for the prepared matrices of hydrogels. FTIR confirmed the successful synthesis of the hydrogel, while TGA and DSC analysis indicated that the thermal stability of the reagents was improved after the polymerization technique. SEM revealed the hard surface of the hydrogel, while XRD indicated a reduction in crystallinity of the reagents. High gel fraction was achieved with high incorporated contents of the polymers and the monomer. An increase in porosity, drug loading, swelling, and drug release was observed with the increase in the concentrations of xanthan gum and acrylic acid, whereas Pluronic F-127 showed the opposite effect. A negligible swelling index was shown at pH 1.2 and 4.6 while greater swelling was observed at pH 7.4, indicating a pH-responsive nature of the designed hydrogels. Furthermore, a higher drug release was found at pH 7.4 compared to pH 1.2 and 4.6, respectively. The first kinetics order was followed by the prepared hydrogel formulations. Thus, it is signified from the discussion that smart xanthan gum/pluronic F-127 hydrogels have the potential to control the release of the atomoxetine HCl in the colon for an extended period of time.
Empirical Equations Expressing the Effects of Measured Suction on the Compaction Curve for Sandy Soils Varying Fines Content
Authors: Chowdepalli Bhargavi , Watanabe Kenji
Published: August 2023

To effectively apply various soil types for embankments, understanding their compaction characteristics is crucial. One crucial factor affecting compaction is suction, which plays a significant role as it is typically performed under unsaturated conditions. Suction varies with soil density, water content, and fines content. This study directly measures suction after soil compaction using the triaxial apparatus, unlike the Soil water characteristic curve (SWCC), assessing its impact on compaction characteristics. Immediate suction measurement after compaction provides apparent suction, resembling on-site conditions with open pore air pressure. Comparing SWCC with apparent suction at each compacted state reveals that suction and air entry value increase with initial density, positively impacting compaction. Notably, apparent suction aligns better with wetting process suction from the SWCC due to added water during specimen preparation. Empirical equations are derived to obtain suction contours across various density and saturation ranges, aiding in understanding suction variations on the compaction curve. Even slight variations in saturation causes noticeable changes in apparent suction during higher compaction efforts, affecting soil compaction characteristics. Therefore, the precise control of saturation control is needed to achieve desired properties of compacted soil, especially at higher compaction efforts and with various soil types. This understanding significantly impacts the mechanical behavior of unsaturated soils.
Characterizing Social Determinants of Maternal and Child Health: A Qualitative Community Health Needs Assessment in Underserved Areas
Authors: Jafree Sara Rizvi , Shah Gulzar , Zakar Rubeena , Muzamill Anam , Ahsan Humna , Burhan Syeda Khadija , Javed Ambreen , Durrani Rana Rubab
Published: August 2023

This study aimed to identify social determinants of maternal and child health (SDoH) in Pakistan. Using a qualitative study design, data were collected from community members in seven underserved areas of Lahore City, Pakistan. A total of 22 qualitative in-depth interviews and 10 focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted. The participants included basic health unit healthcare staff, women of reproductive ages, male family members, mothers-in-law, and religious leaders. We found that maternal and child health is adversely affected by the following socioeconomic and environmental barriers: (i) poor housing quality and sanitation; (ii) inadequate food supply and safety; (iii) unsatisfactory public sector school services; (iv) a lack of safety and security; (v) scarce poverty alleviation efforts and loan schemes; (vi) unsatisfactory transport and internet services; and (vii) inadequate health services. The targets for maternal and child health in Pakistan cannot be met without close coordination between the primary health sector, local governance, and macro state structures, which collectively must monitor and improve housing adequacy, food security, public sector services (primary healthcare services, public schooling, public transport, and public internet access), overall safety, and poverty emergence.
Feedback for Emergency Ambulance Staff: A National Review of Current Practice Informed by Realist Evaluation Methodology
Authors: Wilson Caitlin , Janes Gillian , Lawton Rebecca , Benn Jonathan
Published: August 2023

Research suggests that feedback in Emergency Medical Services (EMS) positively affects quality of care and professional development. However, the mechanisms by which feedback achieves its effects still need to be better understood across healthcare settings. This study aimed to understand how United Kingdom (UK) ambulance services provide feedback for EMS professionals and develop a programme theory of how feedback works within EMS, using a mixed-methods, realist evaluation framework. A national cross-sectional survey was conducted to identify feedback initiatives in UK ambulance services, followed by four in-depth case studies involving qualitative interviews and documentary analysis. We used qualitative content analysis and descriptive statistics to analyse survey responses from 40 prehospital feedback initiatives, alongside retroductive analysis of 17 interviews and six documents from case study sites. Feedback initiatives mainly provided individual patient outcome feedback through “pull” initiatives triggered by staff requests. Challenges related to information governance were identified. Our programme theory of feedback to EMS professionals encompassed context (healthcare professional and organisational characteristics), mechanisms (feedback and implementation characteristics, psychological reasoning) and outcomes (implementation, staff and service outcomes). This study suggests that most UK ambulance services use a range of feedback initiatives and provides 24 empirically based testable hypotheses for future research.
Detection and Prevention of Mild Cognitive Impairment and Dementia
Authors: Messinis Lambros , Nasios Grigorios , Ioannidis Panagiotis , Patrikelis Panayiotis
Published: August 2023

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is characterized by cognitive deficits alongside essentially preserved competence in activities of daily living [...]
Concomitant Presence of Hb Agrinio and - -Med Deletion in a Greek Male Patient with Hemoglobinopathy H: More Severe Phenotype and Literature Review
Authors: Diamantidis Michael D. , Pitsava Stefania , Zayed Omar , Argyrakouli Ioanna , Karapiperis Konstantinos , Chatzoulis Christos , Alexiou Evangelos , Manafas Achilles , Tsangalas Evangelos , Karakoussis Konstantinos
Published: August 2023

Hemoglobin (Hb) Agrinio is a rare non-deletional a-globin mutation observed almost exclusively in Greek, Spanish or other Mediterranean families. The clinical manifestations of a carrier of a single Hb Agrinio mutation (single heterozygosity) depend on the concomitant presence or absence of other mutations or variants in the beta, alpha or other modifying genes. We present a Greek patient harboring a Hb Agrinio variant plus the - -Med alpha deletional allele, having an infrequent severe form of alpha thalassemia, in contrast to the typical alpha thalassemic patient and requiring regular red blood cell (RBC) transfusions and chelation treatment. We also provide a concise literature review regarding alpha thalassemic hemoglobin variants and their molecular and clinical combinations. A phase 2, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, multicenter clinical trial to determine the efficacy and safety of luspatercept (BMS-986346/ACE-536) for the treatment of anemia in adults with alpha thalassemia with the participation of our center is currently recruiting patients (NCT05664737).
Exhibiting the Heritage of COVID-19—A Conversation with ChatGPT
Authors: Spennemann Dirk H. R.
Published: August 2023

The documentation and management of the cultural heritage of the COVID-19 pandemic as well as the heritage of the digital age are emerging discourses in cultural heritage management. The enthusiastic uptake of a generative artificial intelligence application (ChatGPT) by the general public and academics alike has provided an opportunity to explore (i) whether, and to what extent, generative AI can conceptualize an emergent, not well-described field of cultural heritage (the heritage of COVID-19), (ii), whether it can design an exhibition on the topic, and (iii) whether it can identify sites associated with the pandemic that may become significant heritage. Drawing on an extended ‘conversation’ with ChatGPT, this paper shows that generative AI is capable of not only developing a concept for an exhibition of the heritage of COVID-19 but also that it can provide a defensible array of exhibition topics as well as a relevant selection of exhibition objects. ChatGPT is also capable of making suggestions on the selection of cultural heritage sites associated with the pandemic, but these lack specificity. The discrepancy between ChatGPT’s responses to the exhibition concept and its responses regarding potential heritage sites suggests differential selection and access to the data that were used to train the model, with a seemingly heavy reliance on Wikipedia. The ‘conversation’ has shown that ChatGPT can serve as a brainstorming tool, but that a curator’s considered interpretation of the responses is still essential.
Independent Component Analysis Reveals the Transcriptional Regulatory Modules in Bradyrhizobium diazoefficiens USDA110
Authors: Gao Zhi-Peng , Gu Wei-Cheng , Li Jie , Qiu Qin-Tian , Ma Bin-Guang
Published: August 2023

The dynamic adaptation of bacteria to environmental changes is achieved through the coordinated expression of many genes, which constitutes a transcriptional regulatory network (TRN). Bradyrhizobium diazoefficiens USDA110 is an important model strain for the study of symbiotic nitrogen fixation (SNF), and its SNF ability largely depends on the TRN. In this study, independent component analysis was applied to 226 high-quality gene expression profiles of B. diazoefficiens USDA110 microarray datasets, from which 64 iModulons were identified. Using these iModulons and their condition-specific activity levels, we (1) provided new insights into the connection between the FixLJ-FixK2-FixK1 regulatory cascade and quorum sensing, (2) discovered the independence of the FixLJ-FixK2-FixK1 and NifA/RpoN regulatory cascades in response to oxygen, (3) identified the FixLJ-FixK2 cascade as a mediator connecting the FixK2-2 iModulon and the Phenylalanine iModulon, (4) described the differential activation of iModulons in B. diazoefficiens USDA110 under different environmental conditions, and (5) proposed a notion of active-TRN based on the changes in iModulon activity to better illustrate the relationship between gene regulation and environmental condition. In sum, this research offered an iModulon-based TRN for B. diazoefficiens USDA110, which formed a foundation for comprehensively understanding the intricate transcriptional regulation during SNF.
Skin Gene Expression Profiles in Systemic Sclerosis: From Clinical Stratification to Precision Medicine
Authors: Benfaremo Devis , Agarbati Silvia , Mozzicafreddo Matteo , Paolini Chiara , Svegliati Silvia , Moroncini Gianluca
Published: August 2023

Systemic sclerosis, also known as scleroderma or SSc, is a condition characterized by significant heterogeneity in clinical presentation, disease progression, and response to treatment. Consequently, the design of clinical trials to successfully identify effective therapeutic interventions poses a major challenge. Recent advancements in skin molecular profiling technologies and stratification techniques have enabled the identification of patient subgroups that may be relevant for personalized treatment approaches. This narrative review aims at providing an overview of the current status of skin gene expression analysis using computational biology approaches and highlights the benefits of stratifying patients upon their skin gene signatures. Such stratification has the potential to lead toward a precision medicine approach in the management of SSc.
The Role of Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S) in Epigenetic Regulation of Neurodegenerative Diseases: A Systematic Review
Authors: Dogaru Bombonica Gabriela , Munteanu Constantin
Published: August 2023

This review explores the emerging role of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) in modulating epigenetic mechanisms involved in neurodegenerative diseases. Accumulating evidence has begun to elucidate the multifaceted ways in which H2S influences the epigenetic landscape and, subsequently, the progression of various neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s disease. H2S can modulate key components of the epigenetic machinery, such as DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs, impacting gene expression and cellular functions relevant to neuronal survival, inflammation, and synaptic plasticity. We synthesize recent research that positions H2S as an essential player within this intricate network, with the potential to open new therapeutic avenues for these currently incurable conditions. Despite significant progress, there remains a considerable gap in our understanding of the precise molecular mechanisms and the potential therapeutic implications of modulating H2S levels or its downstream targets. We conclude by identifying future directions for research aimed at exploiting the therapeutic potential of H2S in neurodegenerative diseases.
The Histone Deacetylase HstD Regulates Fungal Growth, Development and Secondary Metabolite Biosynthesis in Aspergillus terreus
Authors: Yao Guangshan , Han Na , Zheng Huawei , Wang Lu
Published: August 2023

Histone acetylation modification significantly affects secondary metabolism in filamentous fungi. However, how histone acetylation regulates secondary metabolite synthesis in the lovastatin (a lipid-lowering drug) producing Aspergillus terreus remains unknown because protein is involved and has been identified in this species. Here, the fungal-specific histone deacetylase gene, hstD, was characterized through functional genomics in two marine-derived A. terreus strains, Mj106 and RA2905. The results showed that the ablation of HstD resulted in reduced mycelium growth, less conidiation, and decreased lovastatin biosynthesis but significantly increased terrein biosynthesis. However, unlike its homologs in yeast, HstD was not required for fungal responses to DNA damage agents, indicating that HstD likely plays a novel role in the DNA damage repair process in A. terreus. Furthermore, the loss of HstD resulted in a significant upregulation of H3K56 and H3K27 acetylation when compared to the wild type, suggesting that epigenetic functions of HstD, as a deacetylase, target H3K27 and H3K56. Additionally, a set of no-histone targets with potential roles in fungal growth, conidiation, and secondary metabolism were identified for the first time using acetylated proteomic analysis. In conclusion, we provide a comprehensive analysis of HstD for its targets in histone or non-histone and its roles in fungal growth and development, DNA damage response, and secondary metabolism in A. terreus.
Common Variants in One-Carbon Metabolism Genes (MTHFR, MTR, MTHFD1) and Depression in Gynecologic Cancers
Authors: Pawlik Piotr , Kurzawińska Grażyna , Ożarowski Marcin , Wolski Hubert , Piątek Krzysztof , Słopień Radosław , Sajdak Stefan , Olbromski Piotr , Seremak-Mrozikiewicz Agnieszka
Published: August 2023

We investigated the association between methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (gene MTHFR 677C>T, rs1801133), 5-methyltetrahydrofolate-homocysteine methyltransferase (MTR 2756A>G, rs1805087), and methylenetetrahydrofolate dehydrogenase, cyclohydrolase and formyltetrahydrofolate synthetase 1 (gene MTHFD1 1958G>A, rs2236225)—well-studied functional variants involved in one-carbon metabolism—and gynecologic cancer risk, and the interaction between these polymorphisms and depression. A total of 200 gynecologic cancer cases and 240 healthy controls were recruited to participate in this study. Three single-nucleotide variants (SNVs) (rs1801133, rs1805087, rs2236225) were genotyped using the PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism method. Depression was assessed in all patients using the Hamilton Depression Scale. Depression was statistically significantly more frequent in women with gynecologic cancers (69.5% vs. 34.2% in controls, p < 0.001). MTHFD1 rs2236225 was associated with an increased risk of gynecologic cancers (in dominant OR = 1.53, p = 0.033, and in log-additive models OR = 1.37, p = 0.024). Moreover, an association was found between depression risk and MTHFR rs1801133 genotypes in the controls but not in women with gynecologic cancers (in codominant model CC vs. TT: OR = 3.39, 95%: 1.49–7.74, p = 0.011). Cancers of the female reproductive system are associated with the occurrence of depression, and ovarian cancer may be associated with the rs2236225 variant of the MTHFD1 gene. In addition, in healthy aging women in the Polish population, the rs1801133 variant of the MTHFR gene is associated with depression.
Effect of the von Karman Shedding Frequency on the Hydrodynamics of a Francis Turbine Operating at Nominal Load
Authors: Zanetti Giacomo , Cavazzini Giovanna , Santolin Alberto
Published: August 2023

This paper presents a numerical analysis of the influence of the von Karman vortex shedding at the blade trailing edge on the hydrodynamics of a recently installed small hydro Francis turbine manifesting very loud and high-frequency acoustic pulsations when operating close to the nominal load. A reduced single-passage numerical model is developed to reduce the computational effort of the simulation while ensuring high accuracy in the assessment of fluid flow. The accuracy of the proposed numerical approach is investigated by comparing the frequency spectrum of the experimentally acquired acoustic frequency and the numerical pressure signals, confirming the nature of the machine’s vibrations. The validated numerical model represents a useful tool for an in-depth analysis of the machine’s hydrodynamics in the preliminary design phases. The proposed approach represents a valid alternative to the traditional correlation-based approach for the evaluation of the von Karman shedding frequency with less computational effort compared with a transient simulation of the entire machine.
Association between Obesity and COVID-19: Insights from Social Media Content
Authors: Alotaibi Mohammed , Pai Rajesh R. , Alathur Sreejith , Chetty Naganna , Alhmiedat Tareq , Aborokbah Majed , Albalawi Umar , Marie Ashraf , Bushnag Anas , Kumar Vishal
Published: August 2023

The adoption of emerging technologies in healthcare systems plays a crucial part in anti-obesity initiatives. COVID-19 has intensified the Body Mass Index (BMI) discourses in AI (Artificial Intelligence)-powered social media. However, few studies have reported on the influence of digital content on obesity prevention policies. Understanding the nature and forums of obese metaphors in social media is the first step in policy intervention. The purpose of this paper is to understand the mutual influence between obesity and COVID-19 and determine its policy implications. This paper analyzes the public responses to obesity using Twitter data collected during the COVID-19 pandemic. The emotional nature of tweets is analyzed using the NRC lexicon. The results show that COVID-19 significantly influences perceptions of obesity; this indicates that existing public health policies must be revisited. The study findings delineate prerequisites for obese disease control programs. This paper provides policy recommendations for improving social media interventions in health service delivery in order to prevent obesity.
Exploring the Path to Enhance Employee Creativity in Chinese MSMEs: The Influence of Individual and Team Learning Orientation, Transformational Leadership, and Creative Self-Efficacy
Authors: Qian Chiqing , Kee Daisy Mui Hung
Published: August 2023

This study examined the relationship between transformational leadership, learning orientation, creative self-efficacy, and employee creativity in manufacturing small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in China. A survey involving 742 employees was conducted, and hierarchical linear modeling (HLM) was employed to analyze the data. The result showed that transformational leadership has s significantly positive effect on employee creativity. Moreover, both individual and team-level learning orientations are positively related to employee creativity significantly. Creative self-efficacy (CSE) mediates the relationship between transformational leadership, team learning orientation, and individual learning orientation on employee creativity. These findings suggest that transformational leadership, learning orientation, and CSE enhance employee creativity in Chinese MSMEs. We discuss the implications of these findings and offer suggestions for future research.
Internet Banking Service Perception in Mexico
Authors: Moreno-García Elena
Published: August 2023

The perception, adoption, use and satisfaction regarding Internet banking in Mexico have been scarcely explored. This research contributes to the limited literature on Internet banking in Mexico. Its objective is to analyze the perception that a population of workers has about the online service provided by banks in Mexico. The information was collected from a sample of 197 workers who make use of Internet banking. A very acceptable Cronbach’s alpha index was obtained (α = 0.919), which gives evidence of good internal consistency and reliability. The results of an exploratory and confirmatory analysis with a structural equation model (SEM) show that ten out of the eleven attributes explain workers’ perception of Internet banking services. From the eleven attributes analyzed, only four of them are significant in the Mexican context. These attributes are: security, monthly account statement, speed in decision-making and accessibility. In terms of implications for banking practice, the results of this research provide deeper insights for bank managers and policy makers to understand Mexicans’ motivation and develop appropriate strategies to increase Internet banking use.
Recovery of an Abandoned Singular Infrastructure as a Key Factor for Regional Sustainable Development; A Study Case: “El Caminito del Rey” [“The King’s Little Path”]
Authors: Esteban-López Antonio , Castillo-Martínez Agustín , Peña-García Antonio
Published: August 2023

Although the realm of sustainable development has been sharply associated with energy savings and a decrease in contamination, the concept deserves a much more comprehensive approach. Sustainable development, as the only respectful and safe way to progress, involves—besides the mentioned rational use of energy and resources—a broad variety of economic, technical, cultural, and behavioral issues. In this context, the total or partial recovery of abandoned singular infrastructure facilities for alternative uses (leisure time activities for human welfare) is to be considered an original, interesting, and efficient approach. In this research, the so-called “El Caminito del Rey” [The King’s Little Path] will be studied as a paradigmatic model of successful achievement. The path is located in Málaga, South of Spain, and was originally built to provide access to a hydroelectric power plant. Due to the construction of new routes, the track and walkways were progressively abandoned. The recovery enterprise was conceived in the framework of circular economy-based planning and with full respect to environmental requirements. The facts and figures that will be presented and analyzed will show that when the project is thoroughly designed and carefully implemented, the rehabilitation of obsolete infrastructure facilities located in natural spaces is suitable, feasible, and profitable. Prudent and rational use of these assets for alternative purposes (human welfare through rural tourism and open-air activities) may be fruitful not only in economic terms but also in environmental, cultural, and social ones. The main objective of the current work is to demonstrate that obsolete abandoned facilities can be rehabilitated into worthwhile amenities that may turn into key factors for the sustainable development of determined rural areas. Moreover, the “El Caminito del Rey” experience could represent a model for similar development projects.