bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Convection and Microwave–Convection Drying of Moldavian Dragonhead (Dracocephalum moldavica L.) Leaves
Authors: Gondek Ewa , Kamińska-Dwórznicka Anna , Kocira Sławomir , Oniszczuk Tomasz , Bialik Michał , Stasiak Mateusz
Published: December 2024

Moldavian dragonhead leaves are a valuable waste product from the production of seed oil, from a nutritional point of view. It has been shown that dried leaves can be used for the production of functional foods. Despite the wide possibilities of using dried Moldavian dragonhead leaves, research on the selection of drying methods is scarce. This particular study investigated the traditional convection and the hybrid microwave–convection methods to dry Moldavian dragonhead leaves. We showed that the convection method supported by microwaves allowed us to obtain dried leaves in a much shorter time than traditional convection drying (the convection drying lasted, depending on the parameters, 184-75 min, while the convection–microwave drying lasted 33-7 min). Moreover, the microwave–convection-dried leaves contained more polyphenols (the average TPC in the convection droughts was 29.532, while in the microwave–convection droughts, it was 41.880 mg GAE/g d.m.) and chlorophylls (an average of 2.326 in the convection-dried and 2.675 mg/g d.m. in the microwave–convection-dried material) and were characterized by significantly higher antioxidant activity, compared to convection-dried ones.
Impact of Environmental Variables on Tilt Selection for Energy Yield Maximization in Bifacial Photovoltaic Modules: Modeling Review and Parametric Analysis
Authors: Borea Riccardo Adinolfi , Cirimele Vincenzo , Lo Franco Francesco , Maugeri Giosuè , Melino Francesco
Published: December 2024

Among the different photovoltaic technologies, bifacial photovoltaic modules outperform monofacial ones by being able to harvest the rear incident irradiance. In fact, they achieve higher power output under identical operating conditions. Consequently, the transition from monofacial to bifacial photovoltaic modules is progressing in residential and utility contexts. However, it remains to be fully clarified which installation conditions allow bifacial modules to perform best under different operating conditions. After discussing the different modeling techniques presented in the literature, this paper isolates and evaluates the influence of ground reflectivity, module height, and cloudy weather conditions on the annual incident irradiance and, consequently, the optimal tilt angle of a bifacial photovoltaic module. To focus on the bifacial aspect, each factor is analyzed from the perspectives of the front surface, the back surface, and both. Therefore, different patterns are isolated. The results show that ground reflectivity is key in determining the optimal tilt angle, as it affects the back incident irradiance by up to 431% when compared to a low reflectivity scenario. In contrast, module height and weather conditions do not affect the optimal tilt angle, although they do affect the incident irradiance by up to 5% and 24%, respectively.
Perception of Summer Conditions in Prefabricated Multifamily Buildings Occupied by Middle-Aged and Elderly People Based on Monitoring of Dwellings in Warm-Summer Humid Continental Climate
Authors: Grudzińska Magdalena , Stabryła Rafał , Siwek Krzysztof , Bartoszek Krzysztof , Wankiewicz Jakub
Published: December 2024

This study concentrates on the thermal comfort in dwellings occupied by people above 45 years old in buildings constructed of prefabricated large-scale concrete plates. The buildings underwent many thermal modernisations, and nowadays, with growing external temperatures and solar irradiation, their properties may not be sufficient to ensure comfortable internal conditions. The issue is all the more important because the population of residents is growing older, so the occupants are becoming more vulnerable and more prone to the negative effects of overheating. This research included the monitoring of ten apartments located in five- or twelve-storey buildings, situated in Lublin, a city in southeastern Poland. The monitoring took place in July and August 2023, when internal temperature, solar radiation intensity, window opening, and shading strategies were measured and observed. External conditions were registered by meteorological posts belonging to the Maria Curie-Skłodowska University in Lublin. Additional information about the inhabitants’ behaviour and internal gains was collected through a questionnaire. In most cases, dwellings located in prefabricated residential buildings could be maintained in a comfortable temperature range, even by the ageing self-sufficient occupants. Still, when particular negative factors related to the building’s construction appeared, overheating could be noticeably longer and more troubling, exceeding the elderly’s capabilities to handle it. This showed the necessity of further analyses, especially in the context of the global warming effect.
Enhancing Word Embeddings for Improved Semantic Alignment
Authors: Szymański Julian , Operlejn Maksymilian , Weichbroth Paweł
Published: December 2024

This study introduces a method for the improvement of word vectors, addressing the limitations of traditional approaches like Word2Vec or GloVe through introducing into embeddings richer semantic properties. Our approach leverages supervised learning methods, with shifts in vectors in the representation space enhancing the quality of word embeddings. This ensures better alignment with semantic reference resources, such as WordNet. The effectiveness of the method has been demonstrated through the application of modified embeddings to text classification and clustering. We also show how our method influences document class distributions, visualized through PCA projections. By comparing our results with state-of-the-art approaches and achieving better accuracy, we confirm the effectiveness of the proposed method. The results underscore the potential of adaptive embeddings to improve both the accuracy and efficiency of semantic analysis across a range of NLP.
Effects of Hall Current and Thermal Radiation on the Time-Dependent Swirling Flow of Hybrid Nanofluids over a Disk Surface: A Bayesian Regularization Artificial Neural Network Approach
Authors: Nazir Faisal , Bhowmike Nirman , Zahid Muhammad , Shoaib Sultan , Amin Yasar , Shahid Saleem
Published: December 2024

For automobile and aerospace engineers, implementing Hall currents and thermal radiation in cooling systems helps increase the performance and durability of an engine. In the case of solar energy systems, the effectiveness of heat exchangers and solar collectors can be enhanced by the best use of hybrid nanofluids and the implementation of a Hall current, thermophoresis, Brownian motion, a heat source/sink, and thermal radiation in a time-dependent hybrid nanofluid flow over a disk for a Bayesian regularization ANN backpropagation algorithm. In the current physical model of Cobalt ferrite CoFe2O4 and aluminum oxide Al2O3 mixed with water, a new category of the nanofluid is called the hybrid nanofluid. The study uses MATLAB bvp4c to unravel such intricate relations, transforming PDEs into ODEs. This analysis enables the numerical solution of several BVPs that govern the system of the given problem. Hall currents resulting from the interaction between magnetic fields and the electrically conducting nanofluid, and thermal radiation as an energy transfer mechanism operating through absorption and emission, are central factors for controlling these fluids for use in various fields. The graphical interpretation assists in demonstrating the character of new parameters. The heat source/sink parameter is advantageous to thermal layering, but using a high Schmidt number limits the mass transfer. Additionally, a backpropagation technique with Bayesian regularization is intended for solving ordinary differential equations. Training state, performance, error histograms, and regression demonstration are used to analyze the output of the neural network. In addition to this, there is a decrease in the fluid velocity as magnetic parameter values decrease and a rise in the fluid temperature while the disk is spinning. Thermal radiation adds another level to the thermal behavior by altering how the hybrid nanofluid receives, emits, and allows heat to pass through it.
In Vitro Modelling of a Typical Dietary Intake in Restrictive Anorexia Nervosa Results in Changes to Gut Microbial Community and Metabolites
Authors: Liu Litai , Poveda Carlos , Jenkins Paul E. , Iddrisu Ishawu , Walton Gemma E.
Published: December 2024

Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a psychiatric illness with harmful physical consequences. Studies have observed differences in the faecal microbiota of patients with AN compared to healthy controls. Diet has an impact on the gut microbiota, facilitating an altered community, such changes could impact the gut–brain axis. In this study, a three-stage gut model system that mimics the luminal microbiology of the large intestine was conducted to identify relationships between diet and gut microbiota. A microbial medium was developed to provide nutrients more appropriate to restricting subtype AN (R-AN). The model was inoculated with faeces and samples were taken to compare differences in the microbiota and end products following the fermentation of healthy control medium (HC) compared to R-AN medium. Then, 16S amplicon sequencing along with flow cytometry–fluorescence in situ hybridisation were used to ascertain changes in the microbiota. Gas chromatography (GC) was used to assess changes in microbial metabolites. There were reduced levels of SCFA following the fermentation of R-AN medium. The fermentation of R-AN media led to fewer total bacteria numbers, along with less bifidobacteria and Rumincoccus proximally, but more Clostridium and Enterobacteriaceae. Nutrient-deficient medium resulted in reduced neurotransmitter-producing bacteria, reduced butyrate-producing bacteria, and increased protein-utilising bacteria, all of which could be maintaining factors in AN. The model system provides a novel tool for exploring how extreme dietary changes impact the microbiota and could therefore could be useful for assessing appropriate gut–brain targeted treatments.
Destroying Vision, Destroying Hearing: Sergei Kuriokhin and Arkady Dragomoshchenko
Authors: Pavlov Evgeny
Published: December 2024

The article explores the unique friendship and creative synergy between two towering figures of late Soviet underground culture, the avant-garde jazz musician Sergei Kuriokhin and the poet Arkady Dragomoshchenko. Both outsiders in Leningrad, they shaped its literary and musical landscapes without aligning with any movements. Dragomoshchenko, a seminal poet, defied categorization, while Kuriokhin, a polymath, challenged conventions across music, performance, and politics. Their collaboration epitomized innovation, blending Dragomoshchenko’s cerebral poetry with Kuriokhin’s avant-garde music. Despite linguistic barriers, their connection transcended verbal communication, rooted in shared modes of nonlinear thinking and creative experimentation. Kuriokhin’s revolutionary Pop Mekhanika, a chaotic fusion of genres and sensory experiences, mirrored Dragomoshchenko’s relentless poetic evolution. Their friendship catalyzed pivotal encounters, such as with the American poet Lyn Hejinian, expanding their artistic horizons. Dragomoshchenko’s poetic vision, centred on perception’s fleeting nature and the boundaries of possibility, echoed Kuriokhin’s multisensory assaults on audience expectations. Through their unconventional artistry, Kuriokhin and Dragomoshchenko navigated the shifting cultural landscape of late Soviet society, embodying a spirit of defiance and exploration. Their enduring influence transcends their untimely deaths, leaving an indelible mark on Russian avant-garde culture.
A Comparison of the Effects of Climate and Human Variability on the Thermal Resistance of Clothing
Authors: Ács Ferenc , Szalkai Zsófia , Kristóf Erzsébet , Zsákai Annamária
Published: December 2024

We used a clothing thermal resistance model to investigate and compare the effects of climate and human variability on human thermal load. To investigate the effect of climate variability, we introduced the mean clothing thermal resistance rcl¯. For characterizing the effect of human variability, we used the standard deviation of clothing thermal resistance ∆rcl. We distinguished people based on their body type. We also defined the average human, a man and a woman, with thermal resistances of rcl,m and rcl,f. The investigation was carried out for the European region in the cold season for the period of 1981–2010. The climate variables were taken from the ERA5 reanalysis database. Our most important results are the following. (1) The macroscale pattern of the rcl¯ and ∆rcl fields are very similar, based on which it can be stated that human variability does not modify the spatial distribution of rcl¯. (2) The ∆rcl values are roughly a quarter of the rcl¯ values. The highest rcl¯ values (3.2–3.4 clo) are in Lapland, and the smallest (1–1.2 clo) in Andalusia. (3) The macroscale pattern of the rcl,m and rcl,f fields is similar to the macroscale pattern of the rcl values of the mesomorphic person rcl,2. The field of rcl,2 can be used for climate classification purposes.
The Golden Ratio Family of Extremal Kerr-Newman Black Holes and Its Implications for the Cosmological Constant
Authors: Sonnino Giorgio , Nardone Pasquale
Published: December 2024

This work explores the geometry of extremal Kerr-Newman black holes by analyzing their mass/energy relationships and the conditions ensuring black hole existence. Using differential geometry in E3, we examine the topology of the event horizon surface and identify two distinct families of extremal black holes, each defined by unique proportionalities between their core parameters: mass (m), charge (Q), angular momentum (L), and the irreducible mass (mir). In the first family, these parameters are proportionally related to the irreducible mass by irrational numbers, with a characteristic flat Gaussian curvature at the poles. In the second family, we uncover a more intriguing structure where m, Q, and L are connected to mir through coefficients involving the golden ratio −ϕ−. Within this family lies a unique black hole whose physical parameters converge on the golden ratio, including the irreducible mass and polar Gauss curvature. This black hole represents the highest symmetry achievable within the constraints of the Kerr-Newman metric. This remarkable symmetry invites further speculation about its implications, such as the potential determination of the dark energy density parameter ΩΛ for Kerr-Newman-de Sitter black holes. Additionally, we compute the maximum energy that can be extracted through reversible transformations. We have determined that the second, golden-ratio-linked family allows for a greater energy yield than the first.
RIPK4 Downregulation Reduces ABCG2 Expression, Increasing BRAF-Mutated Melanoma Cell Susceptibility to Cisplatin- and Doxorubicin-Induced Apoptosis
Authors: Olajossy Bartlomiej , Wronski Norbert , Madej Ewelina , Komperda Joanna , Szczygieł Małgorzata , Wolnicka-Glubisz Agnieszka
Published: December 2024

Melanoma cells remain resistant to chemotherapy with cisplatin (CisPt) and doxorubicin (DOX). The abnormal expression of Receptor-Interacting Protein Kinase 4 (RIPK4) in certain melanomas contributes to tumour growth through the NFκB and Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathways, which are known to regulate chemoresistance and recurrence. Despite this, the role of RIPK4 in response to chemotherapeutics in melanoma has not been reported. In this study, we examined how the downregulation and overexpression of RIPK4 affect the sensitivity of BRAF-mutated melanoma cells (A375 and WM266.4) to CisPt and DOX along with determining the underlying mechanism. Using two RIPK4 silencing methods (siRNA and CRISPR/Cas9) and overexpression (dCas9-VPR), we assessed CisPt and DOX-induced apoptosis using caspase 3/7 activity, annexin V/7AAD staining, and FASC analysis. In addition, qRT-PCR and Western blotting were used to detect apoptosis-related genes and proteins such as cleaved PARP, p53, and cyclin D1. We demonstrated that the overexpression of RIPK4 inhibits, while its downregulation enhances, CisPt- or DOX-induced apoptosis in melanoma cells. The effects of downregulation are similar to those observed with pre-incubation with cyclosporin A, an ABCG2 inhibitor. Additionally, our findings provide preliminary evidence of crosstalk between RIPK4, BIRC3, and ABCG2. The results of these studies suggest the involvement of RIPK4 in the observed resistance to CisPt or DOX.
SGLT-2 Inhibitors’ and GLP-1 Receptor Agonists’ Influence on Neuronal and Glial Damage in Experimental Stroke
Authors: Murasheva Anna , Fuks Oksana , Timkina Natalya , Mikhailova Arina , Vlasov Timur , Samochernykh Konstantin , Karonova Tatiana
Published: December 2024

Background: SGLT-2 inhibitors (SGLT-2i) and GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RA) have demonstrated nephro- and cardioprotective effects, but their neuroprotective properties, especially concerning stroke severity, and mechanisms are not unambiguous. We aimed to study the influence of SGLT-2i with different selectivity and GLP-1RA on brain damage volume and neurological status in non-diabetic and diabetic rats and to investigate the underlying mechanisms. Methods: Non-diabetic Wistar rats were divided into five groups (n = 10 each) and received empagliflozin, canagliflozin, or dulaglutide as study drugs and metformin as comparison drug. Control animals were administered 0.9% NaCl for 7 days before stroke. At 48 h after stroke, we assessed neurological deficit, neuronal and astroglial damage markers, and brain damage volume. We also modeled type 2 DM in Wistar rats using the high-fat diet+nicotinamide/streptozotocin method and established similar treatment groups. After 8 weeks, rats were subjected to stroke with further neurological deficit, neuroglial damage markers, and brain necrosis volume measurement. Results: In non-diabetic rats, all the drugs showed an infarct-limiting effect; SGLT-2i and dulaglutide were more effective than metformin. DULA improved neurological status compared with MET and SGLT-2i treatment. All the drugs decreased neurofilament light chains (NLCs) level and neuronal damage markers, but none of them decreased the glial damage marker S100BB. In DM, similarly, all the drugs had infarct-limiting effects. Neurological deficit was most pronounced in the untreated diabetic rats and was reduced by all study drugs. All the drugs reduced NLC level; dulaglutide and empagliflozin, but not canagliflozin, also decreased S100BB. None of the drugs affected neuron-specific enolase. Conclusions: SGLT-2i and GLP-1RA are neuroprotective in experimental stroke. GLP-1RA might be more effective than SGLT-2i as in non-diabetic conditions it influences both brain damage volume and neurological status. All study drugs decrease neuronal damage, while GLP-1RA and highly selective SGLT-2i EMPA, but not low-selective CANA, also have an impact on neuroglia in diabetic conditions.
Early Transpyloric Tube Feeding in Preventing Adverse Respiratory Events in Extremely Low Birth Weight Infants
Authors: Tanaka Shinya , Namba Fumihiko , Nagaya Ken , Yonemoto Naohiro , Hirano Shinya , Yanagihara Itaru , Kitajima Hiroyuki , Fujimura Masanori
Published: December 2024

Background: It has been demonstrated that aspiration during endotracheal intubation in preterm infants with gastroesophageal reflux is a contributing factor in the worsening of lung diseases and the development of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). This study aims to compare the safety and efficacy of early transpyloric (TP) tube feeding with that of nasogastric (NG) tube feeding in relation to BPD. Methods: The study population consisted of 39 extremely low birth weight infants (ELBWIs) with mechanical ventilation and an enteral feeding volume of 50 mL/kg/day, which were randomly assigned to different groups based on the method of tube feeding. The primary outcome was the incidence of adverse events. Results: The hazard ratio for primary adverse events was significantly lower in the TP group. The TP group had a median time of 34 days (range 24–85) and the NG group 24 days (range 13–70). In general, neither group exhibited severe intestinal complications or poor growth. Conclusions: Early TP tube feeding may be a safer alternative method of NG tube feeding for intubated ELBWIs and has been shown to reduce the frequency of adverse respiratory events.
The Interplay of Uterine Health and Obesity: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Šišljagić Dina , Blažetić Senka , Heffer Marija , Vranješ Delać Mihaela , Muller Andrijana
Published: December 2024

Uterine physiology encompasses the intricate processes governing the structure, function, and regulation of the uterus, a pivotal organ within the female reproductive system. The escalating prevalence of obesity has emerged as a significant global health issue, profoundly impacting various facets of well-being, including female reproductive health. These effects extend to uterine structure and function, influencing reproductive health outcomes in women. They encompass alterations in uterine morphology, disruptions in hormonal signaling, and inflammatory processes. Insulin and leptin, pivotal hormones regulating metabolism, energy balance, and reproductive function, play crucial roles in this context. Insulin chiefly governs glucose metabolism and storage, while leptin regulates appetite and energy expenditure. However, in obesity, resistance to both insulin and leptin can develop, impacting uterine function. Inflammation and oxidative stress further exacerbate the development of uterine dysfunction in obesity. Chronic low-grade inflammation and heightened oxidative stress, characteristic of obesity, contribute to metabolic disruptions and tissue damage, including within the uterus. Obesity significantly disrupts menstrual cycles, fertility, and pregnancy outcomes in women. The accumulation of excess adipose tissue disrupts hormonal equilibrium, disturbs ovarian function, and fosters metabolic irregularities, all of which detrimentally impact reproductive health.
Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma and What We Lose During Formalin Fixation: An Evaluation of Changes in Macroscopic Resection Margins Utilizing Virtual Three-Dimensional Imaging Techniques with Analysis Based on 947 Measurements
Authors: Michcik Adam , Jopek Maksym , Pęksa Rafał , Choma Piotr , Garbacewicz Łukasz , Polcyn Adam , Wojciechowska Barbara , Wach Tomasz , Sikora Maciej , Iacoviello Paolo , Audino Giovanni , Drogoszewska Barbara
Published: December 2024

Background: An adequate OSCC macroscopic resection margin (MRM) is essential for effective treatment. This study analyzed the effects of formalin fixation (FF) on the MRM. Material and Methods: A total of 42 patients were enrolled in this study. Tumors from the floor of the mouth (FOM; n = 23), the tongue (TC; n = 10), and the maxilla (MT; n = 9) were studied. A 3D scanner was used to create virtual models, and further analysis was conducted according to the established protocol. Results: The most significant shrinkage was observed in the TC (MRM n = 121; Med. = 1.5 mm; p val. = 7.05 × 10−18), with a maximum shrinkage of 28%. For the FOM (n = 262; Med. = 0.8 mm; p val. = 6.76 × 10−18), the greatest MRM shrinkage was 26%. In the MT group (n = 91; Med. = 0.9 mm; p val. = 2.69 × 10−9), the shrinkage was 18.7%. Among MRMs >8 mm (n = 159), FF led to 58.5% of them shrinking to ≤8 mm, resulting in a false decrease in the safe MRM (p val. = 1.11 × 10−27). Overall, the average shrinkage for all specimens was μ= 2.57 mm (p val. = 8.89 × 10−10) alongside and μ= 2.35 mm (p val. = 4.09 × 10−6) across. The tumors themselves showed minimal changes: μ= 0.69 mm (p val. = 9.73 × 10−3) alongside and μ= 0.8 mm (p val. = 2.52 × 10−7) across. Conclusion: Formalin fixation (FF) caused the shrinkage of the OSCC MRM, particularly in tongue cancers. Even after proper surgical excision in the postoperative results, the number of normal MRMs was underestimated. This should be considered when interpreting the results of surgical treatment. However, FF had a minimal impact on the overall shrinkage of the tumors themselves.
Clearing Amyloid-Beta by Astrocytes: The Role of Rho GTPases Signaling Pathways as Potential Therapeutic Targets
Authors: Park Gyeongah , Jin Zhen , Lu Hui , Du Jianyang
Published: December 2024

Astrocytes, vital support cells in the central nervous system (CNS), are crucial for maintaining neuronal health. In neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD), astrocytes play a key role in clearing toxic amyloid-β (Aβ) peptides. Aβ, a potent neuroinflammatory trigger, stimulates astrocytes to release excessive glutamate and inflammatory factors, exacerbating neuronal dysfunction and death. Recent studies underscore the role of Rho GTPases—particularly RhoA, Rac1, and Cdc42—in regulating Aβ clearance and neuroinflammation. These key regulators of cytoskeletal dynamics and intracellular signaling pathways function independently through distinct mechanisms but may converge to modulate inflammatory responses. Their influence on astrocyte structure and function extends to regulating endothelin-converting enzyme (ECE) activity, which modulates vasoactive peptides such as endothelin-1 (ET-1). Through these processes, Rho GTPases impact vascular permeability and neuroinflammation, contributing to AD pathogenesis by affecting both Aβ clearance and cerebrovascular interactions. Understanding the interplay between Rho GTPases and the cerebrovascular system provides fresh insights into AD pathogenesis. Targeting Rho GTPase signaling pathways in astrocytes could offer a promising therapeutic approach to mitigate neuroinflammation, enhance Aβ clearance, and slow disease progression, ultimately improving cognitive outcomes in AD patients.
How a Metaphor Inspired by Formula 1 Motor Racing Can Help Enhance the Work of a Social Inclusion Community Center
Authors: Trim Peter R. J. , Lee Yang-Im
Published: December 2024

Not-for-profit organizations provide a range of services that satisfy the needs of individuals and help a community to be sustainable. To explain how staff based at a social inclusion community center contribute to social impact, we undertake a case study and incorporate the stakeholder approach that draws on the activities of Pembroke House in south London. Pembroke House engages in social action and provides a number of services considered beneficial to the local community it serves. By adopting this approach, we place emphasis on how the value co-creation concept, which is reinforced by the social marketing approach, helps staff to provide different forms of intervention that ultimately give rise to trust-based relationships involving those providing the service and those receiving the service. To explain this, we make an analogy between a Formula 1 motor racing team servicing a car during a pit-stop while competing in a grand prix and a vulnerable person who visits a food bank seeking assistance in the form of a food parcel. Through the process of drawing on the use of metaphors and making a link with Formula 1 motor racing, we elucidate the value co-creation process and reveal how the social impact provision provided by Pembroke House can be intensified through the deployment of the stakeholder approach, which gives rise to a social inclusion community center partnership framework.
Flexible Polymer-Based Electrodes for Detecting Depression-Related Theta Oscillations in the Medial Prefrontal Cortex
Authors: Sun Rui , Shang Shunuo , Yuan Qunchen , Wang Ping , Zhuang Liujing
Published: December 2024

This study investigates neural activity changes in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) of a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute depression mouse model using flexible polymer multichannel electrodes, local field potential (LFP) analysis, and a convolutional neural network-long short-term memory (CNN-LSTM) classification model. LPS treatment effectively induced depressive-like behaviors, including increased immobility in the tail suspension and forced swim tests, as well as reduced sucrose preference. These behavioral outcomes validate the LPS-induced depressive phenotype, providing a foundation for neurophysiological analysis. Flexible polymer-based electrodes enabled the long-term recording of high-quality LFP and spike signals from the mPFC. Time-frequency and power spectral density (PSD) analyses revealed a significant increase in theta band (3–8 Hz) amplitude under depressive conditions. Using theta waveform features extracted via empirical mode decomposition (EMD), we classified depressive states with a CNN-LSTM model, achieving high accuracy in both training and validation sets. This study presents a novel approach for depression state recognition using flexible polymer electrodes, EMD, and CNN-LSTM modeling, suggesting that heightened theta oscillations in the mPFC may serve as a neural marker for depression. Future studies may explore theta coupling across brain regions to further elucidate neural network disruptions associated with depression.
Analysis of Risk Factors for Anorectal Malformations Combined with Tethered Cord Syndrome and the Impact of Untethering Surgery on Anorectal Function in Related Children: Preliminary Results from a Single-Center Study
Authors: Zhang Tao-Tao , Huang Yan-Bing , He Yu-Yan , Chen Fan , Ying Jian-Bin , Sun Shou-Qing , Zhao Qing-Shuang , Jing Jun-Jie
Published: December 2024

Background: Anorectal malformations (ARMs) are often associated with tethered cord syndrome (TCS). This study focused on children with ARM to explore the risk factors for the co-occurrence of TCS and to investigate the impact of untethering surgery on anorectal function among these children. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 130 children with ARM treated at Fujian Provincial Children’s Hospital (Fujian Hospital of Shanghai Children’s Medical Center) from May 2021 to January 2024. A total of 114 children were included in the study on the basis of the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The patients were divided into two groups according to the presence of TCS: the ARM group (n = 83) and the ARM+TCS group (n = 31). to explore the risk factors for the co-occurrence of ARM and TCS. All children diagnosed with TCS underwent untethering surgery regardless of symptoms. Anorectal function was compared between the ARM and ARM+TCS groups. Results: In the multivariate analysis, intermediate or high-type ARM increased the risk of children with ARM having TCS, with an OR of 3.572, 95% CI from 1.355 to 9.418, and p = 0.010. Additionally, the presence of other malformations also increased the risk of children with ARM having TCS (p = 0.026). When the ARM+TCS group was compared with the ARM group, children with low-type ARM in the ARM+TCS group exhibited a significant improvement in constipation following untethering surgery (p = 0.043). However, when children with intermediate or high-type ARM were compared, the anorectal function of the children in both groups was comparable. Conclusions: Intermediate or high-type ARM and the presence of other malformations are risk factors for the co-occurrence of TCS in children with ARM. In children with low-type ARM, those with TCS and ARM showed significant improvement in constipation after untethering surgery compared with those with ARM without TCS. We recommend that children with relevant conditions actively undergo untethering surgery.
Improving Physical Activity, Athletic Performance, and School Climate in Disadvantaged Schools
Authors: Eilat-Adar Sigal , Arnon Michal , Steinberg Nili , Lidor Ronnie , Sky Bosmat
Published: December 2024

Background: Children are encouraged to spend 60 min each day performing moderate-to-vigorous physical activity. In this study, we assessed the impact of an intervention throughout the school year on physical activity, sports performance, and school climate in fifth–sixth-grade children from schools in a disadvantaged neighborhood. Methods: The intervention group (n = 44) participated in six weekly 45 min physical education classes; an athletic subgroup of these students participated in two additional weekly athletic classes. The control group (n = 73) participated in two standard weekly physical education classes. Pre- and post-intervention Eurofit Physical Fitness Tests were conducted. Results: Significant improvements were seen in the stand-and-reach test among girls in the intervention group [M = −0.47(7.71)–1.26(8.02) cm] compared to the control group [F(1,54) = 14.86, p < 0.01, η2 = 0.22]. No differences were seen between the groups in their daily physical activity, screen time, or school climate (p = 0.13, p = 0.17, and p = 0.35, respectively). Improvements were seen in the shuttle-run beep test, yet only in the athletic subgroup [F(1,93) = 60.38, p < 0.001, η2 = 0.39]. A trend towards significance for the largest improvement was seen in the athletic subgroup, who participated in eight weekly physical activity classes [F(2,93) = 3.75, p = 0.027, η2 = 0.07). Conclusions: Physical education curricula should enhance their focus on athletic performance, while increasing the number of weekly physical education classes in schools, to include daily lessons throughout the school week, each lasting at least 45 min.
Views of Health Professionals About Climate and Health in Sierra Leone: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Sesay Isaac S. , Makris Konstantinos C.
Published: December 2024

Climate change presents one of the biggest global threats to society, while the impact of its manifestations on human health has been poorly characterized and quantified, especially in middle- and low-income countries. The perceptual views of health professionals about the climate and health nexus are critical for the effective implementation of climate policies. The Sierra Leone health professionals are no exception to this, and no such data exist for their country. To this extent, we distributed a cross-sectional survey to understand the perceptual views and beliefs of health professionals in Sierra Leone about the climate and health nexus. A validated international questionnaire on the topic was electronically administered to 265 participants. A descriptive analysis of the survey responses was conducted. Results showed that almost all of the respondents (97%) felt that climate change is an important issue; more than half (68%) of them were very worried about climate change, and 28% were somewhat worried. About half of respondents believed that human activities mostly caused climate change, while 40% of health professionals felt this was equally caused by human activities and natural changes in the environment. The need to engage health professionals with the public and policymakers to bring the health effects of climate change to their attention was particularly highlighted; however, most respondents (81%) stated that numerous barriers impede them from doing so. The most widely reported barriers and needs were the need for training to communicate effectively about climate change and health (96%) and guidance on creating sustainable workplaces (94%), followed by the need for lifelong training and education programs on climate and health, and the lack of time (73%). These survey findings would be valuable to policymakers in Sierra Leone and the broader African regions towards mitigating and adapting to climate change threats to human health.
Effect of the Core/Shell Particle Synthesis Method on the Physico–Chemical Properties of Their Shell and Sensory Properties of 3D-Ordered Films
Authors: Iakobson Olga , Ivankova Elena , Laishevkina Svetlana , Shevchenko Natalia
Published: December 2024

In this work, we investigated the influence of the synthetic conditions of core/shell particles on physico–chemical properties of their shells, the process of self-assembly of particles into 3D-ordered structures, and the sensitivity of films based on these particles to the presence of ethanol and temperature changes. The core/shell particles were prepared by two methods: seed emulsion copolymerization and semi-batch emulsion copolymerization. The cores consisted of polystyrene or its copolymer with methyl methacrylate. Polymer shells of the particles were obtained by copolymerization of methyl methacrylate with several acrylate comonomers: butyl acrylate, butyl methacrylate, propyl acrylate, and ethyl acrylate. The photonic crystal films with the highest sensitivity to ethanol vapors were obtained on the basis of the core/shell particles synthesized by semi-batch emulsion polymerization. It was also established that introducing butyl acrylate or propyl acrylate units into shell copolymers led to an increase in the sensitivity of the resulting photonic crystal films. The films demonstrated a pronounced thermosensitivity only when the corresponding core/shell particles were synthesized as follows: the shell comonomers (methyl methacrylate and butyl acrylate) were introduced into the reaction system during the semi-batch emulsion process in a single step. The intensity of the photonic band gap (PBG) peak for these films decreased by 100% at around 42 °C.
AI Dermatochroma Analytica (AIDA): Smart Technology for Robust Skin Color Classification and Segmentation
Authors: Hamrani Abderrachid , Leizaola Daniela , Reddy Vedere Nikhil Kumar , Kirsner Robert S. , Kaile Kacie , Trinidad Alexander Lee , Godavarty Anuradha
Published: December 2024

Traditional methods for skin color classification, such as visual assessments and conventional image classification, face limitations in accuracy and consistency under varying conditions. To address this, we developed AI Dermatochroma Analytica (AIDA), an unsupervised learning system designed to enhance dermatological diagnostics. AIDA applies clustering techniques to classify skin tones without relying on labeled data, evaluating over twelve models, including K-means, density-based, hierarchical, and fuzzy logic algorithms. The model’s key feature is its ability to mimic the process clinicians traditionally perform by visually matching the skin with the Fitzpatrick Skin Type (FST) palette scale but with enhanced precision and accuracy using Euclidean distance-based clustering techniques. AIDA demonstrated superior performance, achieving a 97% accuracy rate compared to 87% for a supervised convolutional neural network (CNN). The system also segments skin images into clusters based on color similarity, providing detailed spatial mapping aligned with dermatological standards. This segmentation reduces the uncertainty related to lighting conditions and other environmental factors, enhancing precision and consistency in skin color classification. This approach offers significant improvements in personalized dermatological care by reducing reliance on labeled data, improving diagnostic accuracy, and paving the way for future applications in diverse dermatological and cosmetic contexts.
Teal-WCA: A Climate Services Platform for Planning Solar Photovoltaic and Wind Energy Resources in West and Central Africa in the Context of Climate Change
Authors: Obahoundje Salomon , Diedhiou Arona , Troccoli Alberto , Boorman Penny , Alabi Taofic Abdel Fabrice , Anquetin Sandrine , Crochemore Louise , Fassinou Wanignon Ferdinand , Hingray Benoit , Koné Daouda , Mamadou Chérif , Sorho Fatogoma
Published: December 2024

To address the growing electricity demand driven by population growth and economic development while mitigating climate change, West and Central African countries are increasingly prioritizing renewable energy as part of their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). This study evaluates the implications of climate change on renewable energy potential using ten downscaled and bias-adjusted CMIP6 models (CDFt method). Key climate variables—temperature, solar radiation, and wind speed—were analyzed and integrated into the Teal-WCA platform to aid in energy resource planning. Projected temperature increases of 0.5–2.7 °C (2040–2069) and 0.7–5.2 °C (2070–2099) relative to 1985–2014 underscore the need for strategies to manage the rising demand for cooling. Solar radiation reductions (~15 W/m2) may lower photovoltaic (PV) efficiency by 1–8.75%, particularly in high-emission scenarios, requiring a focus on system optimization and diversification. Conversely, wind speeds are expected to increase, especially in coastal regions, enhancing wind power potential by 12–50% across most countries and by 25–100% in coastal nations. These findings highlight the necessity of integrating climate-resilient energy policies that leverage wind energy growth while mitigating challenges posed by reduced solar radiation. By providing a nuanced understanding of the renewable energy potential under changing climatic conditions, this study offers actionable insights for sustainable energy planning in West and Central Africa.
Prediction of Possible Adverse Effects of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus on Maternal and Fetal Glomeruli by Urine and Amniotic Fluid Podocyte Degradation Products
Authors: Cagiran Fatma Tanilir , Mavral Nihal , Kali Zercan , Kirici Pinar
Published: December 2024

Objectives: To compare the levels of podocyte damage markers nephrin and podocalyxin in urine samples taken at the time of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) diagnosis and at birth. Amniotic fluid podocalyxin (pdx) and nephrin levels were also analyzed to determine whether GDM had an impact on fetal glomeruli. Methods: A total of 50 patients, including 24 patients diagnosed with gestational diabetes and 26 healthy pregnant women whose gestational weeks were matched, were included in the study. GDM was diagnosed with a 75 g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). Fresh morning urine samples from patients diagnosed with GDM were collected. The second urine sample was collected with the help of a catheter during birth. Amniotic fluid samples were taken from patients who gave birth by cesarean section. The urinary podocalyxin and nephrin levels were measured via the quantitative sandwich enzyme immunoassay. Albumin–creatinine ratio (uACR) was also calculated in urine samples. Results: Urinary nephrin and pdx levels on the day of GDM diagnosis were similar in the GDM and control groups. Microalbuminuria was detected in only one patient from each group at the time of GDM diagnosis. In the urine samples taken from the time of birth, pdx and nephrin levels of the GDM group were significantly higher than the control group (p < 0.001 for each). While microalbuminuria was detected in five patients (20.8%) at the time of birth in the GDM group, it was detected in only two patients (7.7%) in the control group. In the GDM group, a significant increase was detected between the urine pdx and nephrin levels measured at diagnosis and those measured at birth. In the control group, measurements at baseline and at birth were similar. There was no significant difference between the GDM and control groups in terms of amniotic fluid pdx and nephrin levels. A positive and significant correlation was detected between urinary pdx, nephrin, SBP, and uACR. Conclusions: While GDM triggers podocyte damage in maternal glomeruli, it does not cause significant change in fetal glomeruli.
Ensemble Algorithm Based on Gene Selection, Data Augmentation, and Boosting Approaches for Ovarian Cancer Classification
Authors: Lee Zne-Jung , Cai Jing-Xun , Wang Liang-Hung , Yang Ming-Ren
Published: December 2024

Background: Ovarian cancer is a difficult and lethal illness that requires early detection and precise classification for effective therapy. Microarray technology has permitted the simultaneous assessment of hundreds of genes’ expression levels, yielding important insights into the molecular pathways driving ovarian cancer. To reduce computational complexity and improve accuracy, choosing the most likely differential genes to explain the impacts of ovarian cancer is necessary. Medical datasets, including those related to ovarian cancer, are often limited in size due to privacy concerns, data collection challenges, and the rarity of certain conditions. Data augmentation allows researchers to expand the dataset, providing a larger and more diverse set of examples for model training. Recent advances in machine learning and bioinformatics have shown promise in improving ovarian cancer classification based on gene information. Methods: In this paper, we present an ensemble algorithm based on gene selection, data augmentation, and boosting approaches for ovarian cancer classification. In the proposed approach, the initial genetic data were first subjected to feature selection. Results: The target genes were screened and combined with data augmentation and ensemble boosting algorithms. From the results, the chosen ten genes could accurately classify ovarian cancer at 98.21%. Conclusions: We further show that the proposed algorithm based on clustering approaches is effective for real-world ovarian cancer data, with 100% accuracy and strong performance in distinguishing between distinct ovarian cancer subtypes. The proposed algorithm may help doctors identify ovarian cancer patients early and develop individualized treatment plans.
Gender-Specific Insights into Depression in Patients with Ischemic Heart Disease: Findings from a Pilot Study Using a Self-Developed Questionnaire
Authors: Bondar Laura Ioana , Osser Brigitte , Miuța Caius Calin , Petran Denis , Baltean Alexandru Ioan , Butari Denis Bogdan , Mariș Mariana Adelina , Piroș Ligia Elisaveta , Almășan Robert , Gavrila-Ardelean Mihaela , Gavrila-Ardelean Liviu , Popescu Mircea Ioachim
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Ischemic heart disease (IHD) significantly affects mental health, with gender-specific differences being observed in psychological responses. This pilot study aimed to explore these differences in the demographic, clinical, psychological, psychiatric, and social profile of patients diagnosed with IHD. Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional design was used, recruiting 183 adult patients diagnosed with coronary artery disease and depression at the Psychiatry Department of Arad County Emergency Hospital, Romania, between May 2021 and May 2024. Data were collected using a self-developed tool, named the Depression Assessment in Ischemic Heart Disease Questionnaire (DA-IHDQ), alongside standardized assessments. Statistical analysis was performed using JASP statistical software (Version 0.19.1, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands), employing binomial and multinomial tests for categorical data, and Cronbach’s alpha was used to assess internal consistency. Results: This study found significant demographic differences, with female patients exhibiting higher levels of emotional distress and severe depression compared with the male subjects. Women reported greater social isolation and a stronger desire to seek for psychological or psychiatric support. Furthermore, a positive correlation between depression severity and physical symptoms was observed in both genders. Conclusions: These findings highlight the importance of recognizing gender-specific responses to IHD, emphasizing the need for tailored interventions in mental healthcare and cardiac rehabilitation. Future research should further explore these differences to enhance the understanding of the psychosocial/psychiatric aspects of IHD and improve patient outcomes.