bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How Can Radiomics Help the Clinical Management of Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke?
Authors: Porto-Álvarez Jacobo , Martínez Antonio Mosqueira , Martínez Fernández Javier , Sanmartín López Marta , Blanco Ulla Miguel , Vázquez Herrero Fernando , Pumar José Manuel , Rodríguez-Yáñez Manuel , Minguillón Pereiro Anxo Manuel , Bolón Villaverde Alberto , Iglesias Rey Ramón , Souto-Bayarri Miguel
Published: September 2023

Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) is the loss of neurological function due to a sudden reduction in cerebral blood flow and is a leading cause of disability and death worldwide. The field of radiological imaging has experienced growth in recent years, which could be boosted by the advent of artificial intelligence. One of the latest innovations in artificial intelligence is radiomics, which is based on the fact that a large amount of quantitative data can be extracted from radiological images, from which patterns can be identified and associated with specific pathologies. Since its inception, radiomics has been particularly associated with the field of oncology and has shown promising results in a wide range of clinical situations. The performance of radiomics in non-tumour pathologies has been increasingly explored in recent years, and the results continue to be promising. The aim of this review is to explore the potential applications of radiomics in AIS patients and to theorize how radiomics may change the paradigm for these patients in the coming years.
Editorial on “Design, Analysis, and Measurement of Antennas”
Authors: Parchin Naser Ojaroudi
Published: September 2023

The area of modern wireless communication systems has experienced rapid growth, leading to a rising demand for multifunctional devices capable of providing various wireless services [...]
Application of Traffic Weighted Multi-Maps Based on Disjoint Routing Areas for Static Traffic Assignment
Authors: Paricio-Garcia Alvaro , Lopez-Carmona Miguel A.
Published: September 2023

Urban traffic congestion is a pressing issue, demanding effective and cost-efficient solutions. This paper develops the Traffic Weighted Multi-Maps (TWM) method to solve the Traffic Assignment Problem in Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS). TWM offers drivers diverse views of the network, promoting path diversity and adaptability. Providing an optimal TWM configuration to the traffic demand in terms of structure and allocation policy is a challenging issue as it usually depends on the size of the network and its complexity. The paper explores TWM generation and assignment by applying routing areas based on semi-disjointed k-shortest paths and allocating them using a per-sub flow optimized assignment policy. This approach allows obtaining a pseudo-optimal solution for static traffic assignment with similar results in terms of total travel time compared to the direct solution of calculating optimal map weights and the theoretical system optimum. It offers a cost-effective solution valid for wide urban areas, as the TWM calculation depends on the variety of the traffic flows and the number of semi-disjoint routing areas considered instead of the network complexity and size. Urban network experiments with synthetic traffic demands are studied under different TWM adoption rates, comparing results with existing traffic assignment policies and estimation methods. It highlights its potential for enhancing urban traffic management. Overall, TWM presents a promising approach to addressing urban traffic congestion efficiently.
“Blast Off!”: The Afterlives of Nostalgia in Su Yu Hsin’s Blast Furnace No. 2
Authors: Larson Ellen
Published: September 2023

In her 2022 video installation, Blast Furnace No. 2, artist Su Yu Hsin explores the history of the German factory, Henrichshütte Ironworks. Namely, the artist focuses on Henrichshütte’s former blast furnace, which was bought by a Chinese steel mill in September 1989 and moved to China, where it operated until 2015. Now a state-owned museum, this former factory, located in Hattingen, Germany, is a snapshot of the past—a memorial of sorts for the region’s bygone industrial prosperity. The history and intercontinental movement of this blast furnace inspires Su’s affinities towards spaces located in-between shifting temporalities, identities, and changing environmental conditions within Hattingen and beyond. Su weaves archival materials, documentary film, and interview excerpts into a speculative narrative that connects the years 1989, 2022, and 2050. Blurring reality and imagination, the video follows the fictionalized trail of Lin, a Chinese translator who accompanied the dismantling of the blast furnace over thirty years ago. According to the narrative, Lin left behind an unfinished science fiction novel, which takes place in 2022. In Lin’s novel, the protagonist develops a utopian machine in the form of a blast furnace. With this apparatus, she sends herself into space with the goal of finding an alternative energy source to replace coal. Blast Furnace No. 2 constellates temporal spaces of socio-political and environmental nostalgia, predicated upon both remembered and imagined understandings of the past, present, and future. The work emphasizes contradictory gaps in between socially driven ideological systems and their afterlives, determined to memorialize what most would just as soon forget.
Convex (α, β)-Generalized Contraction and Its Applications in Matrix Equations
Authors: Shukla Rahul , Sinkala Winter
Published: September 2023

This paper investigates the existence and convergence of solutions for linear and nonlinear matrix equations. This study explores the potential of convex (α,β)-generalized contraction mappings in geodesic spaces, ensuring the existence of solutions for both linear and nonlinear matrix equations. This paper extends the concept to partially ordered geodesic spaces and establishes new existence and convergence results. Illustrative examples are provided to demonstrate the practical relevance of the findings. Overall, this research contributes a novel approach to the field of matrix equations.
The Impact of HPP-Assisted Biocontrol Approach on the Bacterial Communities’ Dynamics and Quality Parameters of a Fermented Meat Sausage Model
Authors: Komora Norton , Maciel Cláudia , Isidro Joana , Pinto Carlos A. , Fortunato Gianuario , Saraiva Jorge M. A. , Teixeira Paula
Published: September 2023

Traditional foods are increasingly valued by consumers, whose attention and purchase willingness are highly influenced by other claims such as ‘natural’, ‘sustainable’, and ‘clean label’. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the impact of a novel non-thermal food processing method (i.e., HPP-assisted biocontrol combining mild high hydrostatic pressure, listeriophage Listex, and pediocin PA-1 producing Pediococcus acidilactici) on the succession of bacterial communities and quality of a fermented sausage model. A comparative analysis of instrumental color, texture, and lipid peroxidation revealed no significant differences (p > 0.05) in these quality parameters between non- and minimally processed fermented sausages throughout 60-day refrigerated storage (4 °C). The microbiota dynamics of biotreated and untreated fermented sausages were assessed by 16S rRNA next-generation sequencing, and the alpha and beta diversity analyses revealed no dissimilarity in the structure and composition of the bacterial communities over the analyzed period. The innovative multi-hurdle technology proposed herein holds valuable potential for the manufacture of traditional fermented sausages while preserving their unique intrinsic characteristics.
Linking Vertebrate Gene Duplications to the New Head Hypothesis
Authors: Ray Lindsey , Medeiros Daniel
Published: September 2023

Vertebrates have diverse morphologies and various anatomical novelties that set them apart from their closest invertebrate relatives. A conspicuous head housing a large brain, paired sense organs, and protected by a skeleton of cartilage and bone is unique to vertebrates and is a defining feature of this taxon. Gans and Northcutt (1980s) proposed that the evolution of this “new head” was dependent on two key developmental innovations: neural crest cells (NCCs) and ectodermal placodes. NCCs are migratory embryonic cells that form bone, cartilage, and neurons in the new head. Based on genome size, Ohno (1970s) proposed a separate hypothesis, stating that vertebrate genome content was quadrupled via two rounds (2R) of whole genome duplications (WGDs), and the surplus of genetic material potentiated vertebrate morphological diversification. While both hypotheses offer explanations for vertebrate success, it is unclear if, and how, the “new head” and “2R” hypotheses are linked. Here, we consider both hypotheses and evaluate the experimental evidence connecting the two. Overall, evidence suggests that while the origin of the NC GRN predates the vertebrate WGDs, these genomic events may have potentiated the evolution of distinct genetic subnetworks in different neural crest subpopulations. We describe the general composition of the NC GRN and posit that its increased developmental modularity facilitated the independent evolution of NC derivatives and the diversification of the vertebrate head skeleton. Lastly, we discuss experimental strategies needed to test whether gene duplications drove the diversification of neural crest derivatives and the “new head”.
Alterations in Circulating Bile Acids in Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Lai Jiaming , Luo Ling , Zhou Ting , Feng Xiongcai , Ye Junzhao , Zhong Bihui
Published: September 2023

Background: Previous studies have suggested that bile acids (BAs) may participate in the development and/or progression of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). The present study aimed to define whether specific BA molecular species are selectively associated with MASLD development, disease severity, or geographic region. Methods: We comprehensively identified all eligible studies reporting circulating BAs in both MASLD patients and healthy controls through 30 July 2023. The pooled results were expressed as the standard mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI). Subgroup, sensitivity, and meta-regression analyses were performed to address heterogeneity. Results: Nineteen studies with 154,807 individuals were included. Meta-analysis results showed that total BA levels in MASLD patients were higher than those in healthy controls (SMD = 1.03, 95% CI: 0.63–1.42). When total BAs were divided into unconjugated and conjugated BAs or primary and secondary BAs, the pooled results were consistent with the overall estimates except for secondary BAs. Furthermore, we examined each individual BA and found that 9 of the 15 BAs were increased in MASLD patients, especially ursodeoxycholic acids (UDCA), taurococholic acid (TCA), chenodeoxycholic acids (CDCA), taurochenodeoxycholic acids (TCDCA), and glycocholic acids (GCA). Subgroup analysis revealed that different geographic regions or disease severities led to diverse BA profiles. Notably, TCA, taurodeoxycholic acid (TDCA), taurolithocholic acids (TLCA), and glycolithocholic acids (GLCA) showed a potential ability to differentiate metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) (all p < 0.05). Conclusions: An altered profile of circulating BAs was shown in MASLD patients, providing potential targets for the diagnosis and treatment of MASLD.
Adaptive Circadian Rhythms for Autonomous and Biologically Inspired Robot Behavior
Authors: Maroto-Gómez Marcos , Malfaz María , Castro-González Álvaro , Carrasco-Martínez Sara , Salichs Miguel Ángel
Published: September 2023

Biological rhythms are periodic internal variations of living organisms that act as adaptive responses to environmental changes. The human pacemaker is the suprachiasmatic nucleus, a brain region involved in biological functions like homeostasis or emotion. Biological rhythms are ultradian (<24 h), circadian (∼24 h), or infradian (>24 h) depending on their period. Circadian rhythms are the most studied since they regulate daily sleep, emotion, and activity. Ambient and internal stimuli, such as light or activity, influence the timing and the period of biological rhythms, making our bodies adapt to dynamic situations. Nowadays, robots experience unceasing development, assisting us in many tasks. Due to the dynamic conditions of social environments and human-robot interaction, robots exhibiting adaptive behavior have more possibilities to engage users by emulating human social skills. This paper presents a biologically inspired model based on circadian biorhythms for autonomous and adaptive robot behavior. The model uses the Dynamic Circadian Integrated Response Characteristic method to mimic human biology and control artificial biologically inspired functions influencing the robot’s decision-making. The robot’s clock adapts to light, ambient noise, and user activity, synchronizing the robot’s behavior to the ambient conditions. The results show the adaptive response of the model to time shifts and seasonal changes of different ambient stimuli while regulating simulated hormones that are key in sleep/activity timing, stress, and autonomic basal heartbeat control during the day.
Detecting Molecular Folding from Noise Measurements
Authors: Rico-Pasto Marc , Ritort Felix
Published: September 2023

Detecting conformational transitions in molecular systems is key to understanding biological processes. Here, we investigate the force variance in single-molecule pulling experiments as an indicator of molecular folding transitions. We consider cases where Brownian force fluctuations are large, masking the force rips and jumps characteristics of conformational transitions. We compare unfolding and folding data for DNA hairpin systems of loop sizes 4, 8, and 20 and the 110-amino acid protein barnase, finding conditions that facilitate the detection of folding events at low forces where the signal-to-noise ratio is low. In particular, we discuss the role of temperature as a useful parameter to improve the detection of folding transitions in entropically driven processes where folding forces are temperature independent. The force variance approach might be extended to detect the elusive intermediate states in RNA and protein folding.
Evaluating High and Low Heart Rate Variability Response and Neurocognitive Performance in Workers: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Eslami Ardalan , Nassif Najah Therese , Lal Sara
Published: September 2023

Heart rate variability (HRV) has the potential to be a predicting factor of cognitive performance. The present research aimed to explore the differences in neurocognitive performance of workers with high HRV and low HRV. A total of 48 white-collar workers and 53 blue-collar workers were assessed. An electrocardiogram was used to obtain HRV data, whereby a 10 min baseline and an active (neuropsychological task) recording were taken. Median splits were performed on data to obtain high- and low-HRV groups. The Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery, specifically, the spatial working memory, attention-switching task, rapid visual processing, and spatial span were used. Higher HRV (RMSSD and HF) was linked to better neurocognitive performance measures. Interestingly, the blue- and white-collar groups exhibited different correlations and, in some cases, showed an inverse relationship with the same variables. The differences observed in the present study demonstrate the importance of assessing task-dependent HRV parameters.
Performance of FRP-Upgraded RC One-Way Ribbed Slabs with an Opening in Flexure Zone
Authors: Al Kallas Amjad , Elsanadedy Hussein , Abbas Husain , Almusallam Tarek , Al-Salloum Yousef
Published: September 2023

Reinforced concrete (RC) one-way ribbed slabs serve as a prevalent flooring solution in the Middle East. In this region, the occurrence of openings within these slabs is frequent, particularly when making modifications to existing buildings. However, these openings compromise the stiffness and load-bearing capacity of the slabs, necessitating strengthening measures. All of the available investigations were carried out on strengthening RC one- and two-way solid slabs with openings. However, a noticeable research gap exists, as none of these studies have delved into the strengthening of RC one-way ribbed slabs with openings. This gap was bridged in this study by conducting a comprehensive experimental inquiry into the effectiveness of utilizing fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) laminates to restore the flexural capacity of RC one-way ribbed slabs featuring flexure openings. The experimental program comprised four half-scale one-way ribbed slabs (having three ribs) divided into one unstrengthened specimen without openings to act as a reference, one unstrengthened specimen with a single opening located in the peak-moment region, and two FRP-strengthened slabs each having a single opening located in the peak-moment region. The dimensions of each slab were 2600 mm (length) × 825 mm (width) × 175 mm (thickness). The openings were square (side length = 400 mm), which included cutting the middle rib. The slabs were tested under four-point flexure until failure. It was revealed that strengthening slabs using FRP sheets fully restored the flexural capacity, which was even exceeded by up to 8%. However, the secant stiffness and dissipated energy were partially restored compared with the unstrengthened slab without opening, and these response parameters were reduced by up to 19% and 32%, respectively. Moreover, the displacement ductility for strengthened specimens was moderately reduced compared with the unstrengthened specimen without opening. Furthermore, an analytical procedure was suggested based on section analysis for quick and reasonable assessment of the peak load for both unstrengthened and strengthened one-way ribbed slabs with and without flexure openings.
Characteristics and Mechanism of Large Deformation of Tunnels in Tertiary Soft Rock: A Case Study
Authors: Liu Dengxue , Huang Shuling , Ding Xiuli , Chi Jianjun , Zhang Yuting
Published: September 2023

During the excavation of a water-conveyance tunnel in Tertiary soft rocks in China, significant deformation of the surrounding rocks and damage to the support were observed. Substantial horizontal deformation, reaching magnitudes of meters, was observed in the right side wall after a certain period of tunnel excavation. Extensive investigations, including field surveys, monitoring data analysis, laboratory tests, and numerical simulations, were conducted to understand the underlying mechanisms of this large deformation. The section of the tunnel with large deformation consisted of Tertiary sandy mudstone, mudstone interbedded with marl, and glutenite. Laboratory tests and mineral composition analysis revealed that the sandy mudstone and mudstone interbedded with marl exhibited low strength, which was closely related to the water content of the rock specimens. The compressive strength gradually decreased with increasing water content, and when the water content of mudstone interbedded with marl reached 26.96%, the uniaxial compressive strength decreased to only 0.24 MPa. Additionally, sandy mudstone and mudstone interbedded with marl contained a significant amount of hydrophilic minerals, with montmorillonite constituting 30% and 34% of the two rock samples, respectively. The tunnel passed beneath a perennially flowing gully, and a highly permeable glutenite layer was present in the middle of the tunnel. This resulted in groundwater seepage from the inverted arch during excavation, leading to the softening effect on the mudstone interbedded with marl in the lower part of the tunnel. Through numerical simulation and back-analysis techniques, the varying degrees of softening induced by groundwater were quantitatively analyzed in the surrounding rocks on the left and right sides. The study revealed that the large deformation of the tunnel was triggered by two factors: the plastic flow caused by tunnel excavation under the low strength of the surrounding rocks and the softening effect of groundwater. The damage to the support system was primarily attributed to the squeezing and swelling deformation of the surrounding rocks and the non-uniform deformation between different rock layers.
BIM Impact on Construction Project Time Using System Dynamics in Saudi Arabia’s Construction
Authors: Alnaser Aljawharah A. , Alsanabani Naif M. , Al-Gahtani Khalid S.
Published: September 2023

Construction delays are a prevalent issue worldwide, and Saudi Arabia is just a short distance from this experience. Although the Saudi construction industry was booming due to Vision 2030, major delays were recorded in numerous construction projects, resulting in extra costs and schedule overruns. Studies on Building Information Modeling (BIM) have increased recently due to their crucial role in managing construction projects. However, more efforts need to be made to define the impact value of adopting BIM using advanced techniques such as System Dynamics (SD). It also aims to demonstrate the BIM impacts globally to encourage taking advantage of such a system. Limited papers studied BIM impact in-depth using advanced techniques such as SD. Thus, A questionnaire was distributed to fifty-nine experts to measure the extent of BIM’s influence on the ten factors affecting project delay times discovered in the literature. The statistical analysis results were used to calculate each factor’s relative importance index (RII), compare them to the results obtained without BIM use, and calculate the relative difference for each factor. These relative differences were considered in the modified SD. The modified SD was applied to a case study representing an academic building in the King Saud University campus. The main finding revealed that BIM decreased construction project delays by 14.55%. In addition, this study found that BIM has a maximum influence on poor site management and supervision by contractors, with a reduction percentage of 17.65%, and a minimum influence on lack of contractor experience and managerial skills, with 11.76%. The SD analysis results confirmed that BIM has a significant impact on reducing construction project delays.
Unveiling New Horizons: Progress in the Management of Gastrointestinal and Hepatobiliary Cancer
Authors: Sebesta Christian , Rosen Harald
Published: September 2023

The field of gastrointestinal cancer research continues to make significant strides in understanding the complexities of these challenging diseases [...]
Sex Differences in the Efficacy of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors in Neoadjuvant Therapy of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Suay Guillermo , Garcia-Cañaveras Juan-Carlos , Aparisi Francisco , Lahoz Agustin , Juan-Vidal Oscar
Published: September 2023

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is one of the world’s leading causes of morbidity and mortality. ICIs alone or combined with chemotherapy have become the standard first-line treatment of metastatic NSCLC. The impressive results obtained have stimulated our interest in applying these therapies in early disease stage treatments, as neoadjuvant immunotherapy has shown promising results. Among many of the factors that may influence responses, the role played by sex is attracting increased interest and needs to be addressed. Here, we aim to first review the state of the art regarding neoadjuvant ICIs, whether they are administered in monotherapy or in combination with chemotherapy at stages IB-IIIA, particularly at stage IIIA, before analyzing whether sex may influence responses. To this end, a meta-analysis of publicly available data comparing male and female major pathological responses (MPR) and pathological complete responses (pCR) was performed. In our meta-analysis, MPR was found to be significantly higher in females than in males, with an odds ratio (OR) of 1.82 (95% CI 1.13–2.93; p = 0.01), while pCR showed a trend to be more favorable in females than in males, but the OR of 1.62 was not statistically significant (95% CI 0.97–2.75; p = 0.08). Overall, our results showed that sex should be systematically considered in future clinical trials settings in order to establish the optimal treatment sequence.
The Breaking Point and Post-Traumatic Growth in Breast Cancer Survivors
Authors: Franco Antonio , Magno Stefano
Published: September 2023

Advancements in breast cancer survival rates make the issues of quality of life and psycho-physical wellbeing in survivors central goals of comprehensive care [...]
Automatic Detection of Brain Metastases in T1-Weighted Construct-Enhanced MRI Using Deep Learning Model
Authors: Zhou Zichun , Qiu Qingtao , Liu Huiling , Ge Xuanchu , Li Tengxiang , Xing Ligang , Yang Runtao , Yin Yong
Published: September 2023

As a complication of malignant tumors, brain metastasis (BM) seriously threatens patients’ survival and quality of life. Accurate detection of BM before determining radiation therapy plans is a paramount task. Due to the small size and heterogeneous number of BMs, their manual diagnosis faces enormous challenges. Thus, MRI-based artificial intelligence-assisted BM diagnosis is significant. Most of the existing deep learning (DL) methods for automatic BM detection try to ensure a good trade-off between precision and recall. However, due to the objective factors of the models, higher recall is often accompanied by higher number of false positive results. In real clinical auxiliary diagnosis, radiation oncologists are required to spend much effort to review these false positive results. In order to reduce false positive results while retaining high accuracy, a modified YOLOv5 algorithm is proposed in this paper. First, in order to focus on the important channels of the feature map, we add a convolutional block attention model to the neck structure. Furthermore, an additional prediction head is introduced for detecting small-size BMs. Finally, to distinguish between cerebral vessels and small-size BMs, a Swin transformer block is embedded into the smallest prediction head. With the introduction of the F2-score index to determine the most appropriate confidence threshold, the proposed method achieves a precision of 0.612 and recall of 0.904. Compared with existing methods, our proposed method shows superior performance with fewer false positive results. It is anticipated that the proposed method could reduce the workload of radiation oncologists in real clinical auxiliary diagnosis.
Targetable Molecular Alterations in the Treatment of Biliary Tract Cancers: An Overview of the Available Treatments
Authors: Valery Marine , Vasseur Damien , Fachinetti Francesco , Boilève Alice , Smolenschi Cristina , Tarabay Anthony , Antoun Leony , Perret Audrey , Fuerea Alina , Pudlarz Thomas , Boige Valérie , Hollebecque Antoine , Ducreux Michel
Published: September 2023

Biliary tract cancers (BTCs) are rare tumours, most often diagnosed at an unresectable stage, associated with poor prognosis, with a 5-year survival rate not exceeding 10%. Only first- and second-line treatments are well codified with the combination of cisplatin-gemcitabine chemotherapy and immunotherapy followed by 5-FU and oxaliplatin chemotherapy, respectively. Many studies have shown that BTC, and more particularly intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA), have a high rate of targetable somatic alteration. To date, the FDA has approved several drugs. Ivosidenib targeting IDH1 mutations, as well as futibatinib and pemigatinib targeting FGFR2 fusions, are approved for pre-treated advanced CCA. The combination of dabrafenib and trametinib are approved for BRAFV600E mutated advanced tumours, NTRK inhibitors entrectinib and larotrectinib for tumours bearing NTRK fusion and prembrolizumab for MSI-H advanced tumours, involving a small percentage of BTC in these three settings. Several other potentially targetable alterations are found in BTC, such as HER2 mutations or amplifications or KRASG12C mutations and mutations in genes involved in DNA repair mechanisms. This review aims to clarify the specific diagnostic modalities for gene alterations and to summarize the results of the main trials and developments underway for the management of advanced BTC with targetable alterations.
Human Oral Mucosa as a Potentially Effective Source of Neural Crest Stem Cells for Clinical Practice
Authors: Bardag Gorce Fawzia , Al Dahan Mais , Narwani Kavita , Terrazas Jesus , Ferrini Monica , Calhoun Colonya C. , Uyanne Jettie , Royce-Flores Jun , Crum Eric , Niihara Yutaka
Published: September 2023

We report in this study on the isolation and expansion of neural crest stem cells (NCSCs) from the epithelium of oral mucosa (OM) using reagents that are GMP-certified and FDA-approved for clinical use. Characterization analysis showed that the levels of keratins K2, K6C, K4, K13, K31, and K15—specific to OM epithelial cells—were significantly lower in the experimental NCSCs. While SOX10 was decreased with no statistically significant difference, the earliest neural crest specifier genes SNAI1/2, Ap2a, Ap2c, SOX9, SOX30, Pax3, and Twist1 showed a trend in increased expression in NCSCs. In addition, proteins of Oct4, Nestin and Noth1 were found to be greatly expressed, confirming NCSC multipotency. In conclusion, our study showed that the epithelium of OM contains NCSCs that can be isolated and expanded with clinical-grade reagents to supply the demand for multipotent cells required for clinical applications in regenerative medicine. Supported by Emmaus Medical Inc.
The Potential Role of RANTES in Post-Stroke Therapy
Authors: Pawluk Hanna , Kołodziejska Renata , Grześk Grzegorz , Woźniak Alina , Kozakiewicz Mariusz , Kosinska Agnieszka , Pawluk Mateusz , Grześk-Kaczyńska Magdalena , Grzechowiak Elżbieta , Wojtasik Jakub , Kozera Grzegorz
Published: September 2023

One of the key response mechanisms to brain damage, that results in neurological symptoms, is the inflammatory response. It triggers processes that exacerbate neurological damage and create the right environment for the subsequent repair of damaged tissues. RANTES (Regulated upon Activation, Normal T Cell Expressed and Presumably Secreted) chemokine(C-C motif) ligand 5 (CCL5) is one of the chemokines that may have a dual role in stroke progression involving aggravating neuronal damage and playing an important role in angiogenesis and endothelial repair. This study concerned patients with ischemic stroke (AIS), whose CCL5 concentration was measured at various time intervals and was compared with the control group. In addition, the effect of this biomarker on neurological severity and functional prognosis was investigated. Compared to healthy patients, a higher concentration of this chemokine was demonstrated in less than 4.5 h, 24 h and on the seventh day. Differences in CCL5 levels were found to be dependent on the degree of disability and functional status assessed according to neurological scales (modified Rankin Scale, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale). In addition, differences between various subtypes of stroke were demonstrated, and an increase in CCL5 concentration was proven to be a negative predictor of mortality in patients with AIS. The deleterious effect of CCL5 in the acute phase of stroke and the positive correlation between the tested biomarkers of inflammation were also confirmed.
C. elegans Hemidesmosomes Sense Collagen Damage to Trigger Innate Immune Response in the Epidermis
Authors: Zhu Yi , Li Wenna , Dong Yifang , Xia Chujie , Fu Rong
Published: September 2023

The collagens are an enormous family of extracellular matrix proteins that play dominant roles in cell adhesion, migration and tissue remodeling under many physiological and pathological conditions. However, their function mechanisms in regulating innate immunity remain largely undiscovered. Here we use C. elegans epidermis as the model to address this question. The C. elegans epidermis is covered with a collagen-rich cuticle exoskeleton and can produce antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) against invading pathogens or physical injury. Through an RNAi screen against collagen-encoding genes, we found that except the previously reported six DPY collagens and the BLI-1 collagen, the majority of collagens tested appear unable to trigger epidermal immune defense when damaged. Further investigation suggests that the six DPY collagens form a specific substructure, which regulates the interaction between BLI-1 and the hemidesmosome receptor MUP-4. The separation of BLI-1 with MUP-4 caused by collagen damage leads to the detachment of the STAT transcription factor-like protein STA-2 from hemidesmosomes and the induction of AMPs. Our findings uncover the mechanism how collagens are organized into a damage sensor and how the epidermis senses collagen damage to mount an immune defense.
A Novel Magnetic Fluorescent Fe3O4@ZnS@MPS Nanosensor for Highly Sensitive Determination and Removal of Ag+
Authors: Gao Yan , Chen Xin , Xu Ping , Chen Jie , Yu Shihua , Liu Zhigang , Zeng Xiaodan
Published: September 2023

A novel magnetic fluorescent nanoprobe (Fe3O4@ZnS@MPS(MFNPs)) was synthesized, which recognized and cooperated with Ag+ ions, and a rapid method for detecting Ag+ was established in solution. It was found by fluorescence spectroscopy analysis that the MFNPs could detect Ag+ in PBS solution and, upon addition of Ag+ ions, the fluorescence (FL) of MFNPs could be quenched significantly. The sensor has a low limit of detection (LOD) of 7.04 µM for Ag+. The results showed that MFNPs were extremely specific and sensitive for the quantitative detection of Ag+ over a wide pH range. Then, the recognition mechanism between MFNPs and guest Ag+ was explored via measures of infrared spectroscopy and electron microscopy. It was speculated that the oxygen atoms in the sulfonic acid group cooperated with Ag+ to form a synergistic complexation. The assay was successfully used to determine the content of Ag+ in real samples.
Effect of Digital Game-Based Learning on Student Engagement and Motivation
Authors: Nadeem Muhammad , Oroszlanyova Melinda , Farag Wael
Published: September 2023

Currently, academia is grappling with a significant problem—a lack of engagement. Humankind has gone too far into exploring entertainment options, while the education system has not really kept up. Millennials love playing games, and this addiction can be used to engage and motivate them in the learning process. This study examines the effect of digital game-based learning on student engagement and motivation levels and the gender differences in online learning settings. This study was conducted in two distinct phases. A game-based and traditional online quizzing tools were used to compare levels of engagement and motivation, as well as to assess the additional parameter of gender difference. During the first phase of the study, 276 male and female undergraduate students were recruited from Sophomore Seminar classes, and 101 participated in the survey, of which 83 were male and 18 were female. In the second phase, 126 participants were recruited, of which 107 (63 females and 44 males) participated in the anonymous feedback surveys. The results revealed that digital game-based learning has a more positive impact on student engagement and motivation compared to traditional online activities. The incorporation of a leaderboard as a gaming element in the study was found to positively impact the academic performance of certain students, but it could also demotivate some students. Furthermore, female students generally showed a slightly higher level of enjoyment toward the games compared to male students, but they did not prefer a comparison with other students as much as male students did. The favorable response from students toward digital game-based activities indicates that enhancing instruction with such activities will not only make learning an enjoyable experience for learners but also enhance their engagement.
Elmis syriaca (Kuwert, 1890) and E. zoufali (Reitter, 1910) (Coleoptera: Elmidae) confirmed as distinct species based on molecular data, morphology and geographical distribution
Authors: Jäch Manfred A. , Brojer Michaela , Mičetić Stanković Vlatka , Bošnjak Marija , Luz Dafna , Dorchin Netta , Hershkovitz Yaron , Novaković Boris , Živić Ivana , Dorfer Wolfgang , Bruvo Mađarić Branka
Published: September 2023

Molecular data for 19 specimens of Elmis syriaca syriaca and E. s. zoufali from eight countries have been analysed in order to investigate the taxonomic status and the geographical distribution of these two subspecies. The nominative subspecies was previously thought to be endemic to the Levant (Israel, Lebanon, Syria), while E. s. zoufali was regarded as being widespread from the Balkans to eastern Anatolia and Afghanistan. The results of our molecular studies using DNA barcoding and nuclear DNA data reveal that the two taxa are in fact distinct species, which separated around 2 Mya. A distinction based on the external morphological characters of 354 specimens was found to be impossible due to the pronounced variability, especially of the pronotal microsculpture, which had hitherto been used as the main distinguishing feature. The two species can only be distinguished by the aedeagal parameres and by the geographical distribution, which deviates considerably from the concept of previous authors. Elmis zoufali is distributed in Romania, the Balkan Peninsula, some Aegean Islands and in western Anatolia, while E. syriaca occurs from the Caucasus region southwards to eastern Turkey, Iran (probably also Afghanistan) and the Levant. Geographically, both species are widely separated by the so-called Anatolian Diagonal. Elmis zoufali resp. E. syriaca are recorded for the first time from Croatia, Romania, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Iran and Turkey. In addition, we examined 13 specimens tentatively identified as Elmis quadricollis (Reitter, 1887), a closely related species from Central Asia; we sequenced one specimen from China, which was revealed to be a sister to E. zoufali and E. syriaca.
SkinNet-INIO: Multiclass Skin Lesion Localization and Classification Using Fusion-Assisted Deep Neural Networks and Improved Nature-Inspired Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Hussain Muneezah , Khan Muhammad Attique , Damaševičius Robertas , Alasiry Areej , Marzougui Mehrez , Alhaisoni Majed , Masood Anum
Published: September 2023

Background: Using artificial intelligence (AI) with the concept of a deep learning-based automated computer-aided diagnosis (CAD) system has shown improved performance for skin lesion classification. Although deep convolutional neural networks (DCNNs) have significantly improved many image classification tasks, it is still difficult to accurately classify skin lesions because of a lack of training data, inter-class similarity, intra-class variation, and the inability to concentrate on semantically significant lesion parts. Innovations: To address these issues, we proposed an automated deep learning and best feature selection framework for multiclass skin lesion classification in dermoscopy images. The proposed framework performs a preprocessing step at the initial step for contrast enhancement using a new technique that is based on dark channel haze and top–bottom filtering. Three pre-trained deep learning models are fine-tuned in the next step and trained using the transfer learning concept. In the fine-tuning process, we added and removed a few additional layers to lessen the parameters and later selected the hyperparameters using a genetic algorithm (GA) instead of manual assignment. The purpose of hyperparameter selection using GA is to improve the learning performance. After that, the deeper layer is selected for each network and deep features are extracted. The extracted deep features are fused using a novel serial correlation-based approach. This technique reduces the feature vector length to the serial-based approach, but there is little redundant information. We proposed an improved anti-Lion optimization algorithm for the best feature selection to address this issue. The selected features are finally classified using machine learning algorithms. Main Results: The experimental process was conducted using two publicly available datasets, ISIC2018 and ISIC2019. Employing these datasets, we obtained an accuracy of 96.1 and 99.9%, respectively. Comparison was also conducted with state-of-the-art techniques and shows the proposed framework improved accuracy. Conclusions: The proposed framework successfully enhances the contrast of the cancer region. Moreover, the selection of hyperparameters using the automated techniques improved the learning process of the proposed framework. The proposed fusion and improved version of the selection process maintains the best accuracy and shorten the computational time.
Korteweg-Type Fluids and Thermodynamic Modelling via Higher-Order Gradients
Authors: Morro Angelo
Published: September 2023

This paper investigates the modelling of Korteweg-type fluids and hence the dependence of the stress tensor on gradients of mass density. This topic, originating from the need for describing capillarity effects, is mainly of interest in connection with nanosystems where the mean free path may be comparable with the geometric dimensions of the system. In addition to the Korteweg fluid model, the paper gives a review of the stress tensor function arising in quantum fluid hydrodynamics. Next, thermodynamic consistency is established for a fluid involving first- and second-order density gradients. The modelling investigated is a generalization of the classical Korteweg fluid and allows a better understanding of previous thermodynamic restrictions. The restrictions determined for the general scheme with second-order gradients are applied to the particular cases of the Korteweg fluid and the quantum fluid. Further, to allow for discontinuity wave solutions with finite speed of propagation, a model is established which involves higher-order derivatives and reduces to the Korteweg fluid in stationary conditions.
Editorial on the New Scope of Dynamics
Authors: Volos Christos
Published: September 2023

We are thrilled to introduce the new scope of the Dynamics, a platform that will unravel the captivating world of diverse dynamics and their multifaceted applications [...]
Measuring Implicit STEM and Math Attitudes in Adolescents Online with the Brief Implicit Association Test
Authors: Reichardt Regina , Rottmann Celina , Russo Laura , Emmerdinger Kathrin J. , Schirner Sigrun
Published: September 2023

Despite societal efforts toward enhancing gender equality, females are still underrepresented in STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics). Prominent explanations draw on gender differences in attitudes about STEM (with females holding more negative attitudes than males), which result from the gender stereotype that STEM is a male domain. While a lot of research has focused on explicit attitudes, little is known about implicit attitudes toward STEM. The present research sought to examine implicit attitudes among adolescents, and how they relate to other STEM cognitions. We measured implicit attitudes about the STEM concept as a whole, and about math in particular. For this purpose, we developed two Brief Implicit Associations Tests (BIATs) and administered them online in a sample of adolescents (N = 517). We additionally measured a variety of self-reported motivational and social-psychological variables (interest, aspiration, self-concept of ability, and sense of belonging to the math and STEM community, respectively), which previous research has identified as factors contributing to the gender gap in STEM participation. Our findings confirm the reliability and validity of both the STEM BIAT and the Math BIAT. Moreover, implicit STEM attitudes predicted interest in and aspiration for STEM, self-concept of STEM ability, and sense of belonging to the STEM community. Similarly, implicit math attitudes predicted interest in and aspiration for math, and sense of belonging to the math community (but not self-concept of math ability). Our findings confirm that our novel online BIATs are efficient measurement tools of implicit attitudes in adolescents. Moreover, our findings underscore the significance of implicit attitudes in the STEM domain.
Sparse Non-Uniform Linear Array-Based Propagator Method for Direction of Arrival Estimation
Authors: Mo Hanting , Tong Yi , Wang Yanjiao , Wang Kaiwei , Luo Dongxiang , Li Wenlang
Published: September 2023

A novel approach that does not require the number of sources as a priori is proposed to estimate the direction of arrival (DOA) based on a sparse non-uniform linear antenna array. To ensure the identifiability of the DOA, a specific configuration scheme of sparse array is designed. Based on this specific sparse array, firstly the fourth-order cumulant (FOC) is adopted to eliminate the impact imposed by Gaussian noise. Secondly, to circumvent eigenvalue decomposition or singular value decomposition, a propagator is constructed by using a Hermitian FOC matrix and a hyperparameter. Finally, a projection onto an irregular Toeplitz set is proposed to further improve estimation accuracy.
An AIoT-Based Assistance System for Visually Impaired People
Authors: Li Jiawen , Xie Lianglu , Chen Zhe , Shi Liang , Chen Rongjun , Ren Yongqi , Wang Leijun , Lu Xu
Published: September 2023

In this work, an assistance system based on the Artificial Intelligence of Things (AIoT) framework was designed and implemented to provide convenience for visually impaired people. This system aims to be low-cost and multi-functional with object detection, obstacle distance measurement, and text recognition achieved by wearable smart glasses, heart rate detection, fall detection, body temperature measurement, and humidity-temperature monitoring offered by an intelligent walking stick. The total hardware cost is approximately $66.8, as diverse low-cost sensors and modules are embedded. Meanwhile, a voice assistant is adopted, which helps to convey detection results to users. As for the performance evaluation, the accuracies of object detection and text recognition in the wearable smart glasses experiments are 92.16% and 99.91%, respectively, and the maximum deviation rate compared to the mobile app on obstacle distance measurement is 6.32%. In addition, the intelligent walking stick experiments indicate that the maximum deviation rates compared to the commercial devices on heart rate detection, body temperature measurement, and humidity-temperature monitoring are 3.52%, 0.19%, and 3.13%, respectively, and the fall detection accuracy is 87.33%. Such results demonstrate that the proposed assistance system yields reliable performances similar to commercial devices and is impressive when considering the total cost as a primary concern. Consequently, it satisfies the fundamental requirements of daily life, benefiting the safety and well-being of visually impaired people.