bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nursing Students’ Perceptions of Learning Through a Service Learning Programme with Older Adults Living in Poverty in a High-Income Country: A Descriptive Qualitative Study
Authors: Guerra-Marmolejo Cristina , Morante-García Wladimir , Berthe-Kone Ousmane , Chica-Pérez Anabel , Dobarrio-Sanz Iria , Granero-Molina José , Ortega-Avila Ana Belén
Published: December 2024

Background: Living in poverty negatively affects the biopsychosocial health of older adults. Nursing students need to develop competence to promote health and self-care behaviours amongst older adults living in poverty in high-income countries. Aim: To explore nursing students’ perceptions of a service learning programme aimed at promoting health and self-care among older adults living in poverty in a high-income country. Methods: A descriptive qualitative study was conducted with 37 nursing students recruited from a university in Southeastern Spain. Participants completed a service learning programme in which they conducted preventive home visits to older adults living in poverty. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and analysed using a reflexive thematic analysis. Results: Three key themes were developed: (1) service learning as a different way of learning, (2) as an active learning approach to bridge the theory–practice gap, and (3) to provide insight into an unknown side of nursing. Conclusions: By providing opportunities for active, experiential learning in real-world contexts, service learning was perceived by the nursing students as a methodology that helps to bridge the gap between theory and practice. Participating in a service learning programme with older adults living in poverty not only fosters emotional engagement, reflective practice, and the development of essential non-technical skills in nursing students, but it also prepares them to advocate for older adults living in poverty in a high-income country.
Dual Approach to Large-Scale Seismic Vulnerability Assessment of Churches Through Representative Archetypes
Authors: Cianchino Giorgia , Masciotta Maria Giovanna , De Matteis Gianfranco , Brando Giuseppe
Published: December 2024

In this paper, the seismic vulnerability of churches is assessed using different methods characterized by different levels of complexity depending on the accuracy of the results to be achieved. Specifically, we compare the two main types of methodologies applied in the literature, namely, empirical and analytical methods. Empirical methods assess seismic vulnerability based on engineering judgements. In this study, these evaluations were carried out through an automatic tool, the MACHRO form, which was introduced in the past by the authors with the purpose of making evaluations as objective as possible. Analytical methods evaluate the vulnerability of a stock of churches through linear and nonlinear kinematic analyses performed for the most vulnerable macro-elements, which are treated by means of mechanical models. When the number of churches in the stock is huge, this type of evaluation might prove unfeasible. For this reason, churches are grouped into a manageable number of archetypes in order to be analyzed. The above-described methodologies were applied to a relevant number of churches, aiming to appraise discrepancies in terms of results and highlight advantages and drawbacks of their application.
Effect of Organic Anion Transporting Polypeptide 1B1 on Plasma Concentration Dynamics of Clozapine in Patients with Treatment-Resistant Schizophrenia
Authors: Sato Toshihiro , Kawabata Takeshi , Kumondai Masaki , Hayashi Nagomi , Komatsu Hiroshi , Kikuchi Yuki , Onoguchi Go , Sato Yu , Nanatani Kei , Hiratsuka Masahiro , Maekawa Masamitsu , Yamaguchi Hiroaki , Abe Takaaki , Tomita Hiroaki , Mano Nariyasu
Published: December 2024

The involvement of drug-metabolizing enzymes and transporters in plasma clozapine (CLZ) dynamics has not been well examined in Japanese patients with treatment-resistant schizophrenia (TRS). Therefore, this clinical study investigated the relationship between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of various pharmacokinetic factors (drug-metabolizing enzymes and transporters) and dynamic changes in CLZ. Additionally, we aimed to determine whether CLZ acts as a substrate for pharmacokinetic factors using in vitro assays and molecular docking calculations. We found that 6 out of 10 patients with TRS and with multiple organic anion transporting polypeptide (OATP) variants (OATP1B1: *1b, *15; OATP1B3: 334T>G, 699G>A; and OATP2B1: *3, 935G>A, 601G>A, 76_84del) seemed to be highly exposed to CLZ and/or N-desmethyl CLZ. A CLZ uptake study using OATP-expressing HEK293 cells showed that CLZ was a substrate of OATP1B1 with Km and Vmax values of 38.9 µM and 2752 pmol/mg protein/10 min, respectively. The results of molecular docking calculations supported the differences in CLZ uptake among OATP molecules and the weak inhibitory effect of cyclosporine A, which is a strong inhibitor of OATPs, on CLZ uptake via OATP1B1. This is the first study to show that CLZ is an OATP1B1 substrate and that the presence of SNPs in OATPs potentially alters CLZ pharmacokinetic parameters.
Evolutionary Adaptations in Biliverdin Reductase B: Insights into Coenzyme Dynamics and Catalytic Efficiency
Authors: Lee Eunjeong , Redzic Jasmina , Eisenmesser Elan
Published: December 2024

Biliverdin reductase B (BLVRB) is a redox regulator that catalyzes nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH)-dependent reductions of multiple substrates, including flavins and biliverdin-β. BLVRB has emerging roles in redox regulation and post-translational modifications, highlighting its importance in various physiological contexts. In this study, we explore the structural and functional differences between human BLVRB and its hyrax homologue, focusing on evolutionary adaptations at the active site and allosteric regions. Using NMR spectroscopy, we compared coenzyme binding, catalytic turnover, and dynamic behavior between the two homologues. Despite lacking the arginine “clamp” present in human BLVRB, hyrax BLVRB still undergoes conformational changes in response to the oxidative state of the coenzyme. Mutations at the allosteric site (position 164) show that threonine at this position enhances coenzyme discrimination and allosteric coupling in human BLVRB, while hyrax BLVRB does not display the same allosteric effects. Relaxation experiments revealed distinct dynamic behaviors in hyrax BLVRB, with increased flexibility in its holo form due to the absence of the clamp. Our findings suggest that the evolutionary loss of the active site clamp and modifications at position 164 in hyrax BLVRB alter the enzyme’s conformational dynamics and coenzyme interactions. Identified similarities and differences underscore how key regions modulate catalytic efficiency and suggest that coenzyme isomerization may represent the rate-limiting step in both homologues.
Integrated Proteomics and Machine Learning Approach Reveals PYCR1 as a Novel Biomarker to Predict Prognosis of Sinonasal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Panthong Watcharapong , Pientong Chamsai , Nukpook Thawaree , Roytrakul Sittiruk , Yingchutrakul Yodying , Teeramatwanich Watchareporn , Aromseree Sirinart , Ekalaksananan Tipaya
Published: December 2024

Sinonasal squamous cell carcinoma (SNSCC) is a rare tumor with a high 5-year mortality rate. However, proteomic technologies have not yet been utilized to identify SNSCC-associated proteins, which could be used as biomarkers. In this study, we aimed to discover a biomarker to predict SNSCC patients using proteomic analysis integrated with machine learning models. Support vector machine (SVM), logistic regression (LR), random forest (RF), and gradient boost (GB) classifiers were developed to predict SNSCC based on proteomic profiles of SNSCC compared with nasal polyps (NP) as control. Seventeen feature proteins were found in all models, indicating possible biomarkers for SNSCC. Analysis of gene expression across multiple cancer types and their associations with cancer stage and patient survival in the TCGA-HNSC dataset identified a PYCR1 and MYO1B gene that could be a potential tumor-associated marker. The expression of PYCR1 was confirmed by RT-qPCR in SNSCC tissues, and its high expression was associated with poor overall survival, indicating PYCR1 as a potential tumor-associated biomarker to predict the prognosis of SNSCC.
LAP1 Interactome Profiling Provides New Insights into LAP1’s Physiological Functions
Authors: Pereira Cátia D. , Espadas Guadalupe , Martins Filipa , Bertrand Anne T. , Servais Laurent , Sabidó Eduard , Chevalier Philippe , da Cruz e Silva Odete A. B. , Rebelo Sandra
Published: December 2024

The nuclear envelope (NE), a protective membrane bordering the nucleus, is composed of highly specialized proteins that are indispensable for normal cellular activity. Lamina-associated polypeptide 1 (LAP1) is a NE protein whose functions are just beginning to be unveiled. The fact that mutations causing LAP1 deficiency are extremely rare and pathogenic is indicative of its paramount importance to preserving human health, anticipating that LAP1 might have a multifaceted role in the cell. Mapping the LAP1 protein interactome is, thus, imperative to achieve an integrated view of its potential biological properties. To this end, we employed in silico- and mass spectrometry-based approaches to identify candidate LAP1-interacting proteins, whose functional attributes were subsequently characterized using bioinformatics tools. Our results reveal the complex and multifunctional network of protein–protein interactions associated to LAP1, evidencing a strong interconnection between LAP1 and cellular processes as diverse as chromatin and cytoskeleton organization, DNA repair, RNA processing and translation, as well as protein biogenesis and turnover, among others. Novel interactions between LAP1 and DNA repair proteins were additionally validated, strengthening the previously proposed involvement of LAP1 in the maintenance of genomic stability. Overall, this study reaffirms the biological relevance of LAP1 and the need to deepen our knowledge about this NE protein, providing new insights about its potential functional partners that will help guiding future research towards a mechanistic understanding of LAP1’s functioning.
Promoters, Key Cis-Regulatory Elements, and Their Potential Applications in Regulation of Cadmium (Cd) in Rice
Authors: Xu Xinxin , Mo Qingxian , Cai Zebin , Jiang Qing , Zhou Danman , Yi Jicai
Published: December 2024

Rice (Oryza sativa), a globally significant staple crop, is crucial for ensuring human food security due to its high yield and quality. However, the intensification of industrial activities has resulted in escalating cadmium (Cd) pollution in agricultural soils, posing a substantial threat to rice production. To address this challenge, this review comprehensively analyzes rice promoters, with a particular focus on identifying and characterizing key cis-regulatory elements (CREs) within them. By elucidating the roles of these CREs in regulating Cd stress response and accumulation in rice, we aim to establish a scientific foundation for developing rice varieties with reduced Cd accumulation and enhanced tolerance. Furthermore, based on the current understanding of plant promoters and their associated CREs, our study identifies several critical research directions. These include the exploration of tissue-specific and inducible promoters, as well as the discovery of novel CREs specifically involved in the mechanisms of Cd uptake, transport, and detoxification in rice. Our findings not only contribute to the existing knowledge base on genetic engineering strategies for mitigating Cd contamination in rice but pave the way for future research aimed at enhancing rice’s resilience to Cd pollution, ultimately contributing to the safeguarding of global food security.
Altered Cellular Metabolism Is a Consequence of Loss of the Ataxia-Linked Protein Sacsin
Authors: Perna Laura , Salsbury Grace , Dushti Mohammed , Smith Christopher J. , Morales Valle , Bianchi Katiuscia , Czibik Gabor , Chapple J. Paul
Published: December 2024

Mitochondrial dysfunction is implicated in the pathogenesis of the neurological condition autosomal recessive spastic ataxia of Charlevoix-Saguenay (ARSACS), yet precisely how the mitochondrial metabolism is affected is unknown. Thus, to better understand changes in the mitochondrial metabolism caused by loss of the sacsin protein (encoded by the SACS gene, which is mutated in ARSACS), we performed mass spectrometry-based tracer analysis, with both glucose- and glutamine-traced carbon. Comparing the metabolite profiles between wild-type and sacsin-knockout cell lines revealed increased reliance on aerobic glycolysis in sacsin-deficient cells, as evidenced by the increase in lactate and reduction of glucose. Moreover, sacsin knockout cells differentiated towards a neuronal phenotype had increased levels of tricarboxylic acid cycle metabolites relative to the controls. We also observed disruption in the glutaminolysis pathway in differentiated and undifferentiated cells in the absence of sacsin. In conclusion, this work demonstrates consequences for cellular metabolism associated with a loss of sacsin, which may be relevant to ARSACS.
Anthranilic Acid–G-Protein Coupled Receptor109A–Cytosolic Phospholipase A2–Myelin–Cognition Cascade: A New Target for the Treatment/Prevention of Cognitive Impairment in Schizophrenia, Dementia, and Aging
Authors: Oxenkrug Gregory
Published: December 2024

Cognitive impairment is a core feature of neurodevelopmental (schizophrenia) and aging-associated (mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer’s dementia) neurodegenerative diseases. Limited efficacy of current pharmacological treatments warrants further search for new targets for nootropic interventions. The breakdown of myelin, a phospholipids axonal sheath that protects the conduction of nerve impulse between neurons, was proposed as a neuropathological abnormality that precedes and promotes the deposition of amyloid-β in neuritic plaques. The present review of the recent literature and our own pre- and clinical data suggest (for the first time) that the anthranilic acid (AA)-induced activation of microglial-expressed G-protein coupled receptor (GPR109A) inhibits cytosolic phospholipase A2 (cPLA2), an enzyme that triggers the degradation of myelin and consequently attenuates cognitive impairment. The present review suggests that the up-regulation of AA formation is a sex-specific compensatory (adaptive) reaction aimed to prevent/treat cognitive impairment. The AA–GPR109A–cPLA2–myelin–cognition cascade suggests new nootropic interventions, e.g., the administration of pegylated kynureninase, an enzyme that catalyzes AA formation from Kynurenine (Kyn), a tryptophane catabolite; pegylated interferon-alpha; central and peripheral Kyn aminotransferase inhibitors that increase availability of Kyn as a substrate for AA formation; and vagus nerve stimulation. The cascade predicts nootropic activity of exogenous GPR109A agonists that were designed and underwent clinical trials (unsuccessful) as anti-dyslipidemia agents. The proposed cascade might contribute to the pathogenesis of cognitive impairment. Data on AA in neurodegenerative disorders are scarce, and the proposed cascade needs further exploration in pre- and clinical studies
Effects of Cr3+ Doping on Spinel LiMn2O4 Morphology and Electrochemical Performance
Authors: Pei Zhengqing , Wang Jiawei , Wang Haifeng , Zheng Kexin , Wang Qian , Zhou Xinjie , Ma Dehua , Lu Ju
Published: December 2024

LiMn2O4, a significant cathode material for lithium-ion batteries, has garnered considerable attention due to its low cost and environmental friendliness. However, its widespread application is constrained by its rapid capacity degradation and short cycle life at elevated temperatures. To enhance the electrochemical performance of LiMn2O4, we employed a liquid-phase co-precipitation and calcination method to incorporate Cr3+ into the LiMn2O4 cathode material, successfully synthesizing a series of LiCrxMn2−xO4 (x = 0~0.06). The prepared Cr-doped samples exhibited an excellent spinel structure and a unique truncated octahedral morphology. Additionally, the substitution of Mn3+ in LiMn2O4 by Cr3+, coupled with the significantly higher Cr-O bond energy compared to Mn-O bond energy, enhanced the stability of the crystal structure and inhibited the Jahn–Teller effect. Experimental results demonstrated that the optimized LiCr0.04Mn1.96O4 displayed superior electrochemical performance, with a capacity retention rate of 93.24% after 500 cycles under a 0.5C current density; even at 50 °C, the capacity retention rate remained at 86.46% after 350 cycles under a 0.5C current density. The polyhedral morphology formed by Cr doping in LiMn2O4 offers an effective approach to achieving high-performance LiMn2O4 cathode materials.
Learning to Cycle: Why Is the Balance Bike More Efficient than the Bicycle with Training Wheels? The Lyapunov’s Answer
Authors: Mercê Cristiana , Davids Keith , Cordovil Rita , Catela David , Branco Marco
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Riding a bicycle is a foundational movement skill that can be acquired at an early age. The most common training bicycle has lateral training wheels (BTW). However, the balance bike (BB) has consistently been regarded as more efficient, as children require less time on this bike to successfully transition to a traditional bike (TB). The reasons for this greater efficiency remain unclear, but it is hypothesized that it is due to the immediate balancing requirements for learners. This study aimed to investigate the reasons why the BB is more efficient than the BTW for learning to cycle on a TB. Methods: We compared the variability of the child–bicycle system throughout the learning process with these two types of training bicycles and after transitioning to the TB. Data were collected during the Learning to Cycle Program, with 23 children (6.00 ± 1.2 years old) included. Participants were divided into two experimental training groups, BB (N = 12) and BTW (N = 11). The angular velocity data of the child–bicycle system were collected by four inertial measurement sensors (IMUs), located on the child’s vertex and T2 and the bicycle frame and handlebar, in three time phases: (i) before practice sessions, (ii) immediately after practice sessions, and (iii), two months after practice sessions with the TB. The largest Lyapunov exponents were calculated to assess movement variability. Conclusions: Results supported the hypothesis that the BB affords greater functional variability during practice sessions compared to the BTW, affording more functionally adaptive responses in the learning transition to using a TB.
A Regularization Method for Landslide Thickness Estimation
Authors: Borgatti Lisa , Donati Davide , Hu Liwei , Landi Germana , Zama Fabiana
Published: December 2024

Accurate estimation of landslide depth is essential for practical hazard assessment and risk mitigation. This work addresses the problem of determining landslide depth from satellite-derived elevation data. Using the principle of mass conservation, this problem can be formulated as a linear inverse problem. To solve the inverse problem, we present a regularization approach that computes approximate solutions and regularization parameters using the Balancing Principle. Synthetic data were carefully designed and generated to evaluate the method under controlled conditions, allowing for precise validation of its performance. Through comprehensive testing with this synthetic dataset, we demonstrate the method’s robustness across varying noise levels. When applied to real-world data from the Fels landslide in Alaska, the proposed method proved its practical value in reconstructing landslide thickness patterns. These reconstructions showed good agreement with existing geological interpretations, validating the method’s effectiveness in real-world scenarios.
Isothermal Detection Methods for Fungal Pathogens in Closed Environment Agriculture
Authors: Cotter Aylwen , Dracatos Peter , Beddoe Travis , Johnson Kim
Published: December 2024

Closed environment agriculture (CEA) is rapidly gaining traction as a sustainable option to meet global food demands while mitigating the impacts of climate change. Fungal pathogens represent a significant threat to crop productivity in CEA, where the controlled conditions can inadvertently foster their growth. Historically, the detection of pathogens has largely relied on the manual observation of signs and symptoms of disease in the crops. These approaches are challenging at large scale, time consuming, and often too late to limit crop loss. The emergence of fungicide resistance further complicates management strategies, necessitating the development of more effective diagnostic tools. Recent advancements in technology, particularly in molecular and isothermal diagnostics, offer promising tools for the early detection and management of fungal pathogens. Innovative detection methods have the potential to provide real-time results and enhance pathogen management in CEA systems. This review explores isothermal amplification and other new technologies in detection of fungal pathogens that occur in CEA.
In Vitro Response of Two Strains of Cordyceps javanica to Six Chemical Pesticides
Authors: Mao Ruixia , Cai Xiaoxia , Wang Tengyu , Liu Ziyang , Xing Peixiang , Zhang Guisen , Zhou Wenwen , Diao Hongliang , Ma Ruiyan
Published: December 2024

To determine the compatibility of two new biocontrol fungi with common chemical pesticides, this study examined the effects of three insecticides, namely, avermectin, imidacloprid, and acetamiprid, and three fungicides, namely, chlorogenonil, boscalid, and kasugamycin, on the mycelial growth and spore germination of Cordyceps javanica strains IF-1106 and IJ-tg19. The insecticidal effects of mixed insecticides or fungicides with good compatibility with C. javanica IJ-tg19 against Myzus persicae were tested. The results showed that the six chemical pesticides exerted different degrees of inhibition on the mycelial growth of both C. javanica strains, with an obvious dose-dependent effect. The inhibitory effect of chlorothalonil on the mycelial growth of IF-1106 and IJ-tg19 was greater than 75%. Different kinds and concentrations of chemical pesticides had significant effects on spore germination. Among them, acetamiprid had little inhibitory effect on C. javanica spores. Therefore, the two C. javanica strains exhibited good compatibility with the insecticide acetamiprid and had some compatibility with avermectin and imidacloprid. Among the fungicides, the compatibility of the two strains of biocontrol fungi was the best with kasugamycin, followed by boscalid, while their compatibility with chlorothalonil showed the least compatibility. The median lethal time (LT50) of five concentrations of C. javanica IJ-tg19 (1 × 103, 1 × 104, 1 × 105, 1 × 106, and 1 × 107 spore/mL) mixed with acetamiprid against M. persicae were 5.28, 4.56, 3.80, 2.73, and 2.13 days, respectively, and the insecticidal rate was higher than that of fungus treatment alone (5.19, 4.59, 4.05, 3.32, and 2.94 days, respectively) or chemical pesticide treatment (5.36 days). This study provides data support and a theoretical basis for reducing the use of chemical pesticides, improving the efficiency of C. javanica-based insecticides, and optimizing the synergistic use of fungi and chemical pesticides.
Effects of Land Use Transition on Regional Ecological Environment—A Case Study of Zhaosu County, Xinjiang
Authors: Lu Xinhai , Chen Yuejiao , Fan Xiangyu , Liu Xinpeng
Published: December 2024

As a focal point in contemporary land system science research, land use transitions significantly impact the ecological environment. Zhaosu County, a typical ecological county in the arid region of Northwest China, offers significant insights into the processes of land use transition and their effects on the ecological environment. Studying these dynamics is crucial for the county’s rational spatial allocation and sustainable development. Based on the remote sensing monitoring data of land use in Zhaosu County in 2000, 2010, and 2018, this article classified land use according to three primary functions: “production, living, and ecological”. By comprehensively applying the research methods of land use transfer matrix model, land use center of gravity shift model, eco-environmental quality index, and regional ecosystem contributions, this paper quantitatively analyzed the process of land use functional transition and spatial transition in Zhaosu County from 2000 to 2018 and scientifically investigated the spatiotemporal distribution characteristics of land use transitions as well as their varying impacts on the ecological environment. This research indicates that: (1) From 2000 to 2018, the ecological land in Zhaosu County initially experienced an increase followed by a decrease; in contrast, production land underwent a decline before rebounding, while living land has shown a continuous upward trajectory. (2) The spatial distribution of the three primary functional land uses in Zhaosu is unbalanced, and the center of gravity of all land uses has shifted during the study period. Among them, the center of gravity of water area and other ecological land underwent the most pronounced displacements, and the spatial migration intensified initially before gradually diminishing, while the degree of deviation of urban living land was the least pronounced. (3) The comprehensive eco-environmental quality index of Zhaosu County continued to decline from 0.584 in 2000 to 0.549 in 2018, indicating a persistent degradation trend of the ecological environment quality. (4) The negative effects of the ecological environment in Zhaosu County outweighed the positive effects, and the main factors contributing to the decline in ecological environment quality were grassland degradation and the decline of the snowline.
Preparation of Alginate Hydrogel Beads on a Superhydrophobic Surface with Calcium Salt Powder to Enhance the Mechanical Strength and Encapsulation Efficiency of Ingredients
Authors: Hosokawa Yuhei , Goshima Takashi , Kai Takami , Kobaru Saki , Ohzuno Yoshihiro , Nii Susumu , Kiyoyama Shiro , Yoshida Masahiro , Takei Takayuki
Published: December 2024

Calcium alginate hydrogel is one of the most widely used materials for drug-carrier beads used in drug-delivery systems. In this study, we developed a new method to improve the encapsulation efficiency of ingredients, such as medicines, in calcium alginate hydrogel beads. In the gold standard method, the hydrogel beads are prepared in the liquid phase. In contrast, in the new method, to enhance the encapsulation efficiency, the hydrogel beads are prepared in the gas phase using a water-repellent surface. In brief, a droplet of sodium alginate aqueous solution is rolled on a water-repellent surface with CaCl2 powder, a cross-linking agent. This process leads to the direct attachment of CaCl2 powder to the droplet, resulting in the formation of spherical hydrogel beads with high mechanical strength and higher encapsulation efficiency than beads prepared by previous methods. The hydrogel beads exhibit similar permeability for glucose, a model for low-molecular-weight medicines, to those prepared by previous methods. These results show that the new method is promising for the preparation of calcium alginate hydrogel beads for drug-delivery systems.
Mechanical Behavior of Flexible Fiber Assemblies: Review and Future Perspectives
Authors: Wang Peng , Han Jiawei , Wang Siyuan , Guo Yu
Published: December 2024

Flexible fibers, such as biomass particles and glass fibers, are critical raw materials in the energy and composites industries. Assemblies of the fibers show strong interlocking, non-Newtonian and compressible flows, intermittent avalanches, and high energy dissipation rates due to their elongation and flexibility. Conventional mechanical theories developed for regular granular materials, such as dry sands and pharmaceutical powders, are often unsuitable for modeling flexible fibers, which exhibit more complex mechanical behaviors. This article provides a comprehensive review of the current state of research on the mechanics of flexible fiber assemblies, focusing on their behavior under compression, shear flow, and gas–fiber two-phase flow processes. Finally, the paper discusses open issues and future directions, highlighting the need for advancements in granular theories to better accommodate the unique characteristics of flexible fibers, and suggesting potential strategies for improving their handling in industrial applications.
A Novel Magnetic Flux Leakage Method Incorporating TMR Sensors for Detecting Zinc Dross Defects on the Surface of Hot-Dip Galvanized Sheets
Authors: Wang Bo , Zhang San , Wang Jie , Jing Liqin , Mao Feilong
Published: December 2024

Surface quality control of hot-dip galvanized sheets is a critical research topic in the metallurgical industry. Zinc dross, the most common surface defect in the hot-dip galvanizing process, significantly affects the sheet’s service performance. In this manuscript, a novel magnetic flux leakage (MFL) detection method was proposed to detect zinc dross defects on the surface of hot-dip galvanized steel sheets. Instead of using exciting coils in traditional methods, a tiny permanent magnet with a millimeter magnitude was employed to reduce the size and weight of the equipment. Additionally, a high-precision tunnel magnetoresistance (TMR) sensor with a sensitivity of 300 mV/V/Oe was selected to achieve higher detection accuracy. The experimental setup was established, and the x-axis direction (sample movement direction) was determined as the best measurement axis by vector analysis through experiments and numerical simulation. The detection results indicate that this novel MFL detection method could detect industrial zinc dross with an equivalent size of 400 μm, with high signal repeatability and signal-to-noise ratio. In the range of 0–1200 mm/s, the detection speed has almost no effect on the measurement signal, which indicates that this novel method has higher adaptability to various conditions. The multi-path scanning method with a single probe was used to simulate the array measurement to detect a rectangular area of 30 × 60 mm. Ten zinc dross defects were detected across eight measurement paths with 4 mm intervals, and the positions of these zinc dross defects were successfully reconstructed. The research results indicate that this novel MFL detection method is simple and feasible. Furthermore, the implementation of array measurements provides valuable guidance for subsequent in-depth research and potential industrial applications in the future.
Study on Selection Diversity for MIMO 3-User Interference Channel with Interference Alignment
Authors: Jin Dongsup , Jin Xianglan
Published: December 2024

This paper explores selection diversity in the context of MIMO 3-user interference channels with interference alignment (IA), focusing on enhancing reliability through diversity order (DO) analysis. While degrees of freedom (DoF) have traditionally been emphasized for throughput optimization in IA, limited research has addressed diversity order to improve error performance. In this work, we define a conditional DO and propose a beamforming vector selection method that achieves a conditional DO of M2/2, where M is the number of antennas per transceiver. The proposed scheme employs a two-stage decoding approach, combining zero-forcing for interference cancellation with maximum likelihood (ML) decoding for desired signal recovery, which is augmented by orthogonalization techniques. Simulations demonstrate the superiority of the proposed scheme in both error probability and conditional DO values compared to conventional IA methods, particularly in scenarios with higher antenna counts. These results provide insights into optimizing IA for enhanced reliability and form the foundation for future exploration of advanced decoding and beamforming strategies.
On Large Sum-Free Sets: Revised Bounds and Patterns
Authors: Cordeiro de Amorim Renato
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we rectify two previous results found in the literature. Our work leads to a new upper bound for the largest sum-free subset of [1,n] with the lowest value in n3,n2, and the identification of all patterns that can be used to form sum-free sets of maximum cardinality.
A New Varying-Factor Finite-Time Recurrent Neural Network to Solve the Time-Varying Sylvester Equation Online
Authors: Tan Haoming , Wu Junyun , Guan Hongjie , Zhang Zhijun , Tao Ling , Zhao Qingmin , Li Chunquan
Published: December 2024

This paper presents a varying-parameter finite-time recurrent neural network, called a varying-factor finite-time recurrent neural network (VFFTRNN), which is able to solve the solution of the time-varying Sylvester equation online. The proposed neural network makes the matrix coefficients vary with time and can achieve convergence in a finite time. Apart from this, the performance of the network is better than traditional networks in terms of robustness. It is theoretically proved that the proposed neural network has super-exponential convergence performance. Simulation results demonstrate that this neural network has faster convergence speed and better robustness than the return to zero neural networks and can track the theoretical solution of the time-varying Sylvester equation effectively.
A New Hyperparameter Tuning Framework for Regression Tasks in Deep Neural Network: Combined-Sampling Algorithm to Search the Optimized Hyperparameters
Authors: Tiep Nguyen Huu , Jeong Hae-Yong , Kim Kyung-Doo , Xuan Mung Nguyen , Dao Nhu-Ngoc , Tran Hoai-Nam , Hoang Van-Khanh , Ngoc Anh Nguyen , Vu Mai The
Published: December 2024

This paper introduces a novel hyperparameter optimization framework for regression tasks called the Combined-Sampling Algorithm to Search the Optimized Hyperparameters (CASOH). Our approach enables hyperparameter tuning for deep learning models with two hidden layers and multiple types of hyperparameters, enhancing the model’s capacity to work with complex optimization problems. The primary goal is to improve hyperparameter tuning performance in deep learning models compared to conventional methods such as Bayesian Optimization and Random Search. Furthermore, CASOH is evaluated alongside the state-of-the-art hyperparameter reinforcement learning (Hyp-RL) framework to ensure a comprehensive assessment. The CASOH framework integrates the Metropolis-Hastings algorithm with a uniform random sampling approach, increasing the likelihood of identifying promising hyperparameter configurations. Specifically, we developed a correlation between the objective function and samples, allowing subsequent samples to be strongly correlated with the current sample by applying an acceptance probability in our sampling algorithm. The effectiveness of our proposed method was examined using regression datasets such as Boston Housing, Critical heat flux (CHF), Concrete compressive strength, Combined Cycle Power Plant, Gas Turbine CO, and NOx Emission, as well as an ‘in-house’ dataset of lattice-physics parameters generated from a Monte Carlo code for nuclear fuel assembly simulation. One of the primary goals of this study is to construct an optimized deep-learning model capable of accurately predicting lattice-physics parameters for future applications of machine learning in nuclear reactor analysis. Our results indicate that this framework achieves competitive accuracy compared to conventional random search and Bayesian optimization methods. The most significant enhancement was observed in the lattice-physics dataset, achieving a 56.6% improvement in prediction accuracy, compared to improvements of 53.2% by Hyp-RL, 44.9% by Bayesian optimization, and 38.8% by random search relative to the nominal prediction. While the results are promising, further empirical validation across a broader range of datasets would be helpful to better assess the framework’s suitability for optimizing hyperparameters in complex problems involving high-dimensional parameters, highly non-linear systems, and multi-objective optimization tasks.
Synchronized Rhythmic Activity of Ants with Distributed Rest Periods
Authors: da Silveira Pedro M. M. , Fontanari José F.
Published: December 2024

Synchronization is a prevalent phenomenon in biological systems, including social insects such as ants. Certain ant species exhibit remarkable synchronization of their activities within the nest. To elucidate the underlying mechanisms of this coordinated behavior, we propose an integro-differential equation model that captures the autocatalytic nature of ant activation. Active ants can stimulate inactive individuals, leading to a cascade of arousal. By incorporating a stochastic component to represent variability in rest periods, we explore the conditions necessary for synchronization. Our analysis reveals a critical threshold for fluctuations in rest duration. Exceeding this threshold disrupts synchronization, driving the system towards a stable equilibrium. These findings offer valuable insights into the factors governing ant activity synchronization and highlight the delicate balance between model parameters required to generate rhythmic patterns.
Colorectal Cancer: A Brief and Simplified Analysis of a Complex Disease
Authors: Petrov Krasimir , Ivanov Ivan , Popovska Savelina , Betova Tatyana , Kamburova Zornitsa
Published: December 2024

Background and Objectives: This study examined factors influencing the onset and progression of colorectal tumors, including patients’ epidemiological data, tumor location (right-sided, left-sided, and rectal), histomorphology, perineural or intraneural invasion, lymph node status, immune reactions, mismatch repair (MMR) status, and commonly observed mutations. Our primary goal was to evaluate their predictive and prognostic value and interactions. Materials and Methods: We analyzed a retrospective cohort of 100 patients with colorectal adenocarcinoma diagnosed between 2020 and 2023, using formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tumor blocks. The methods included routine H&E microscopy, immunohistochemistry, Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS), and subsequent statistical analysis. Results: The findings showed a median diagnosis age of 70 years, with no gender-specific tumor localization. Right-sided tumors were prevalent, especially among patients with a defective MMR (dMMR), which represented 89% of dMMR cases. MMR status significantly correlated with tumor localization. We observed significant relationships between tumor grade, lymphovascular invasion, and overall tumor stage. Higher tumor grades and stages correlated with increased lymphovascular invasion and lymph node involvement. Interestingly, tumor budding did not correlate with lymph node metastasis but was significantly associated with higher tumor grades. Most BRAF mutations were found in right-sided tumors, indicating a significant correlation with this localization. Conclusions: This study focuses on the diversity of colorectal cancer (CRC) by examining how genetic and histological characteristics vary based on tumor location or other tumor variables.
Concentric Needle Electromyography Findings in Patients with Ulnar Neuropathy at the Elbow
Authors: Podnar Simon
Published: December 2024

In ulnar neuropathy at the elbow (UNE), the degree of neuropathic changes, the sensitivity of needle electromyography (EMG) in individual ulnar muscles, and the utility of individual EMG parameters are controversial. I compared qualitative needle EMG findings in two ulnar-innervated hands muscles and two ulnar-innervated forearm muscles in a group of previously reported UNE patients. Altogether, 170 UNE patients (175 arms) were studied. I found spontaneous denervation activity (SDA) most frequently in the first dorsal interosseus (FDI) (62%) and neuropathic changes in the abductor digiti minimi (ADM) muscle (88%). In the forearm muscles, SDA was more common (29% vs. 20%; p = 0.02), and neuropathic changes were similar in the flexor carpi ulnaris (FCU) and the flexor digitorum profundus (FDP) muscles. SDA and neuropathic changes were more common in the ulnar hand (88% and 77%) than in the ulnar forearm muscles (71% and 68%). Needle EMG is sensitive to diagnose UNE. For the detection of SDA FDI and neuropathic changes, ADM is the best muscle. Ulnar forearm muscles are less useful than ulnar hand muscles for UNE diagnosis.
Leveraging Tumor Mutation Profiles to Forecast Immune Checkpoint Blockade Resistance in Melanoma, Lung, Head and Neck, Bladder and Renal Cancers
Authors: Mestrallet Guillaume
Published: December 2024

Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB), radiotherapy, chemotherapy and surgery are currently used as therapeutic strategies against melanoma, lung, bladder and renal cancers, but their efficacy is limited. Thus, I need to predict treatment response and resistance to address this challenge. In this study, I analyzed 350 lung cancer, 320 melanoma, 215 bladder cancer, 139 head and neck cancer and 151 renal carcinoma patients treated with ICB to identify tumor mutations associated with response and resistance to treatment. I identified several tumor mutations linked with a difference in survival outcomes following ICB. In lung cancer, missense mutations in ABL1, ASXL1, EPHA3, EPHA5, ERBB4, MET, MRE11A, MSH2, NOTCH1, PAK7, PAX5, PGR, ZFHX3, PIK3C3 and REL genes were indicative of favorable responses to ICB. Conversely, mutations in TGFBR2, ARID5B, CDKN2C, HIST1H3I, RICTOR, SMAD2, SMAD4 and TP53 genes were associated with shorter overall survival post-ICB treatment. In melanoma, mutations in FBXW7, CDK12, CREBBP, CTNNB1, NOTCH1 and RB1 genes predict resistance to ICB, whereas missense mutations in FAM46C and RHOA genes are associated with extended overall survival. In bladder cancer, mutations in HRAS genes predict resistance to ICB, whereas missense mutations in ERBB2, GNAS, ATM, CDKN2A and LATS1 genes, as well as nonsense mutations in NCOR1 and TP53 genes, are associated with extended overall survival. In head and neck cancer, mutations in genes like PIK3CA and KRAS correlated with longer survival, while mutations in genes like TERT and TP53 were linked to shorter survival. In renal carcinoma, mutations such as EPHA5, MGA, PIK3R1, PMS1, TSC1 and VHL were linked to prolonged overall survival, while others, including total splice mutations and mutations in B2M, BCOR, JUN, FH, IGF1R and MYCN genes were associated with shorter overall survival following ICB. Then, I developed predictive survival models by machine learning that correctly forecasted cancer patient survival following ICB within an error between 5 and 8 months based on their distinct tumor mutational attributes. In conclusion, this study advocates for personalized immunotherapy approaches in cancer patients.
Effect of Hydrolyzed Frozen Meat on Diet Palatability, Apparent Digestibility, Immune Response, Fecal Microbiota, and Metabolome in British Shorthair Cats
Authors: Ye Shibin , Cao Zhihao , Jian Shiyan , Zhang Limeng , Deng Baichuan , Deng Jinping
Published: December 2024

Frozen meat is an important source of protein in pet food, and has attracted much attention in recent years. In this study, we compared the effect of meat meal (MM), frozen meat (FM), and hydrolyzed frozen meat (HFM) as ingredients in extruded pet food on its palatability and apparent digestibility, as well as its effects on the immune response, fecal microbiota, and metabolome of British shorthair cats. A total of 24 British shorthair cats were allocated to the MM, FM, and HFM groups according to body weight and gender. The palatability test lasted 4 days and the feeding test lasted 45 days. The results showed that the FM and HFM diets had better palatability than the MM diet (p < 0.05) and significantly improved dry matter and crude protein digestibility (p < 0.05). The serum IL-10 level was significantly higher in the HFM group compared to the MM and FM groups (p < 0.05). The serum IgM levels were also found to be significantly higher in the FM group compared to the MM and HFM groups (p < 0.05). The blood urea nitrogen/creatinine ratio was significantly lower in the HFM and FM groups than in the MM group (p < 0.05). Cats fed HFM had a higher abundance of fecal Actinobacteria and Bifidobacterium and a lower content of Bacteroidota (p < 0.05). Furthermore, serum metabolomics analysis revealed that the tryptophan (Trp) metabolism and bile acid metabolism were affected by HFM. Overall, FM and HFM were better for the cat’s health than meat meal, but they also have some potential risks.
Physicochemical, Structural, Thermal, and Rheological Properties of Mango Seed Starch from Five Cultivars
Authors: De Dios-Avila Ndahita , Morales-Ovando Mario Alberto , Zamudio-Flores Paul Baruk , Bustillos-Rodríguez Juan Carlos , Ordóñez-García Magali , Medina-Dzul Kati Beatriz , Romero-Cortes Teresa , Cuervo-Parra Jaime Alioscha , Tirado-Gallegos Juan Manuel
Published: December 2024

Large quantities of seeds are generated and discarded during agro-industrial mango processing. However, mango seeds still contain valuable components such as starch, which has applications in various industries. This study aimed to obtain and characterize starches from the seeds of five mango cultivars (Ataulfo, Manililla, Piña, Tapana, and Tommy Atkins). The isolated starches were evaluated for their physicochemical, morphological, structural, thermal, and rheological characteristics. The starches showed creamy white colorations, and their granules had spherical and oval shapes. This starch source contains a high percentage of apparent amylose, greatly influencing its thermal, rheological, and functional properties. Structural and molecular studies showed that all starches presented an A-type X-ray diffraction pattern, impacting their water absorption and viscosity. The transition temperatures were relatively high, which could be influenced by the length of the amylopectin chains and their intermediate components, the apparent amylose content, and other components such as lipids and anomalous amylopectin. The starches evaluated behaved as pseudoplastic materials, while oscillatory tests revealed that the pastes formed with mango starches are more elastic than viscous. In conclusion, research on the seed starch properties of different mango cultivars provides interesting results for their potential application in foods. It could contribute to the value-added processing of mango seeds as a potential starch source.
Symptomatic Giant Skene’s Gland Cyst During Second Trimester Pregnancy and Surgical Excision: A Case Report
Authors: Cover Brinkley , Tovar Juliana , Enakpene Omosiuwa L. , Enakpene Christopher A.
Published: December 2024

Introduction: A Skene’s gland cyst is a rare gynecological disorder, and the cause of an adult onset is largely unknown. However, periurethral and perineal cystic lesions are common, causing often indistinguishable symptoms. Therefore, accurate diagnosis is crucial because it can significantly alter clinical management. Methods: A 27-year-old woman was gravida 2 para 1 with the onset of a unique, progressively large vulvar mass that began at approximately 6 weeks of gestation. At 22 weeks of gestation, the mass became more symptomatic and measured approximately 9 cm × 7 cm × 6 cm in size, with some areas of excoriation on the lateral surface. Results: The patient had a pelvic MRI without contrast, and it showed that the mass was most likely a giant Skene’s gland cyst. At 24 weeks, the mass was surgically removed under spinal anesthesia and followed by vulvar reconstruction. Histopathology showed a benign cyst lined by transitional and squamous epithelium cells, which was consistent with a benign Skene’s gland cyst. She recovered fully, continued with the pregnancy and delivered vaginally at 39 weeks and 3 days without complications. Conclusions: A case of excoriating giant Skene’s gland cyst in pregnancy that caused significant discomfort to the patient. To this day, there has been no reported literature of a Skene’s gland cyst this large, especially during pregnancy. Hence, Skene’s gland cysts should be part of the differential diagnosis of a large vulvar mass of this magnitude during pregnancy.