bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Copper-Selective Sensor and Its Inhibition of Copper-Amyloid Beta Aggregation
Authors: Nguyen Ngoc Kim , Poduska Bella , Franks Mia , Bera Manoranjan , MacCormack Ian , Lin Guoxing , Petroff Alexander P. , Das Samir , Nag Arundhati
Published: May 2024

Copper is an essential trace metal for biological processes in humans and animals. A low level of copper detection at physiological pH using fluorescent probes is very important for in vitro applications, such as the detection of copper in water or urine, and in vivo applications, such as tracking the dynamic copper concentrations inside cells. Copper homeostasis is disrupted in neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s disease, and copper forms aggregates with amyloid beta (Ab42) peptide, resulting in senile plaques in Alzheimer’s brains. Therefore, a selective copper detector probe that can detect amyloid beta peptide-copper aggregates and decrease the aggregate size has potential uses in medicine. We have developed a series of Cu2+-selective low fluorescent to high fluorescent tri and tetradentate dentate ligands and conjugated them with a peptide ligand to amyloid-beta binding peptide to increase the solubility of the compounds and make the resultant compounds bind to Cu2+–amyloid aggregates. The copper selective compounds were developed using chemical scaffolds known to have high affinity and selectivity for Cu2+, and their conjugates with peptides were tested for affinity and selectivity towards Cu2+. The test results were used to inform further improvement of the next compound. The final Cu2+ chelator–peptide conjugate we developed showed high selectivity for Cu2+ and high fluorescence properties. The compound bound 1:1 to Cu2+ ion, as determined from its Job’s plot. Fluorescence of the ligand could be detected at nanomolar concentrations. The effect of this ligand on controlling Cu2+–Ab42 aggregation was studied using fluorescence assays and microscopy. It was found that the Cu2+–chelator–peptide conjugate efficiently reduced aggregate size and, therefore, acted as an inhibitor of Ab42-Cu2+ aggregation. Since high micromolar concentrations of Cu2+ are present in senile plaques, and Cu2+ accelerates the formation of toxic soluble aggregates of Ab42, which are precursors of insoluble plaques, the developed hybrid molecule can potentially serve as a therapeutic for Alzheimer’s disease.
Parental and Child Sleep: Children with Vision Impairment, Autistic Children, and Children with Comorbid Vision Impairment and Autism
Authors: Guner Nesli , Hayton Jessica Antonia
Published: May 2024

Background: Parents report associations between children’s sleep disturbances and behaviors. Children with neurodevelopmental conditions (e.g., Williams Syndrome and autism) are consistently reported to experience increased sleeping problems. Sleep in children with vision impairment and children with a dual diagnosis of vision impairment and autism remains understudied. Methods: Our exploratory study compared sleep profiles in 52 children (aged 4–12 years) and their parents (n = 37), across four groups: children with vision impairment (VI; n = 9), autism (n = 10), comorbid vision impairment + autism (n = 6), and typically developing children (n = 27). Childhood sleep was measured using the parental report Childhood Sleep Habits Questionnaire and sleep diaries. Children’s cognitive functioning was measured using digit span, semantic, and phonemic verbal fluency measures. Parental sleep was measured via the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and Epworth Sleepiness Scale. Results: Clinically disordered sleep was reported in all child groups (p ≤ 0.001), particularly children with VI + autism. Age, not sleep quality/quantity, predicted cognitive task performance in TD and autistic groups, but not in VI and VI + autism groups. The child’s diagnosis affected parental sleep, particularly in children with a dual diagnosis of VI + autism. Conclusions: All participants experienced problematic sleep to varying degrees. Those most affected were children and parents in the VI + autism group, suggesting that autism may be the main driver of sleep problems in our sample.
How COVID-19 Affected Sleep Talking Episodes, Sleep and Dreams?
Authors: Camaioni Milena , Scarpelli Serena , Alfonsi Valentina , Gorgoni Maurizio , Calzolari Rossana , De Bartolo Mina , Mangiaruga Anastasia , Couyoumdjian Alessandro , De Gennaro Luigi
Published: May 2024

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic increased symptoms of stress and anxiety and induced changes in sleep quality, dream activity, and parasomnia episodes. It has been shown that stressful factors and/or bad sleep habits can affect parasomnia behaviors. However, investigations on how COVID-19 has affected sleep, dreams, and episode frequency in parasomnias are rare. The current study focuses on the impact of the pandemic on a specific parasomnia characterized by speech production (sleep talking, ST). Methods: We selected 27 participants with frequent ST episodes (STs) during the pandemic and compared them with 27 participants with frequent STs from a previous study conducted during a pre-pandemic period. All participants performed home monitoring through sleep logs and recorded their nocturnal STs for one week. Results: We observed a higher frequency of STs in the pandemic group. Moreover, STs were related to the emotional intensity of dreams, independent of the pandemic condition. The pandemic was associated with lower bizarreness of dreams in the pandemic group. There were no differences in sleep variables between the two groups. Conclusion: Overall, these results suggest a stressful effect of COVID-19 on the frequency of STs. Both the pandemic and the frequency of STs affect qualitative characteristics of dreams in this population.
Beyond Frequency Bands: Complementary-Ensemble-Empirical-Mode-Decomposition-Enhanced Microstate Sequence Non-Randomness Analysis for Aiding Diagnosis and Cognitive Prediction of Dementia
Authors: Wan Wang , Gu Zhongze , Peng Chung-Kang , Cui Xingran
Published: May 2024

Exploring the spatiotemporal dynamic patterns of multi-channel electroencephalography (EEG) is crucial for interpreting dementia and related cognitive decline. Spatiotemporal patterns of EEG can be described through microstate analysis, which provides a discrete approximation of the continuous electric field patterns generated by the brain cortex. Here, we propose a novel microstate spatiotemporal dynamic indicator, termed the microstate sequence non-randomness index (MSNRI). The essence of the method lies in initially generating a sequence of microstate transition patterns through state space compression of EEG data using microstate analysis. Following this, we assess the non-randomness of these microstate patterns using information-based similarity analysis. The results suggest that this MSNRI metric is a potential marker for distinguishing between health control (HC) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) (HC vs. FTD: 6.958 vs. 5.756, p < 0.01), as well as between HC and populations with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) (HC vs. AD: 6.958 vs. 5.462, p < 0.001). Healthy individuals exhibit more complex macroscopic structures and non-random spatiotemporal patterns of microstates, whereas dementia disorders lead to more random spatiotemporal patterns. Additionally, we extend the proposed method by integrating the Complementary Ensemble Empirical Mode Decomposition (CEEMD) method to explore spatiotemporal dynamic patterns of microstates at specific frequency scales. Moreover, we assessed the effectiveness of this innovative method in predicting cognitive scores. The results demonstrate that the incorporation of CEEMD-enhanced microstate dynamic indicators significantly improved the prediction accuracy of Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores (R2 = 0.940). The CEEMD-enhanced MSNRI method not only aids in the exploration of large-scale neural changes in populations with dementia but also offers a robust tool for characterizing the dynamics of EEG microstate transitions and their impact on cognitive function.
Personality Functioning Improvement during Psychotherapy Is Associated with an Enhanced Capacity for Affect Regulation in Dreams: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Kempe Simon , Köpp Werner , Wittmann Lutz
Published: May 2024

Background: Clinical case illustrations of patients with an impairment of personality functioning (IPF) have repeatedly reported that progress during psychotherapy is reflected by alterations in dream content. However, quantitative studies based on samples of psychotherapy patients are scarce. As a core component of both personality functioning and contemporary psychodynamic dream theory, the construct of affect regulation is of specific significance in this context. Aims: To test if improvement in personality functioning in the course of psychotherapy is associated with an increasing ability to regulate affects in dreams. Method: In a longitudinal design, affect regulation was compared in N = 94 unsolicited dream reports from the first vs. last third of long term psychotherapy of ten patients with initial IPF. Dream reports were transcribed from recordings of the sessions. Expert ratings of the level of personality functioning were obtained using the Scales of Psychological Capacities. The capacity for affect regulation was assessed using the Zurich Dream Process Coding System. Group differences were assessed using linear mixed models, controlling for dream length as well as the nested structure of this data set. Results: Patients demonstrated an increased capacity for affect regulation in dreams that was primarily evident in three core features: the complexity of dream elements (cf., e.g., parameter attributes, p = 0.024); the extent of affective involvement in the dream ego (cf., e.g., parameter subject feeling, p = 0.014); and the flexibility to regulate the dynamics of safety/involvement processes (p ≤ 0.001). This pattern was especially prominent in a subgroup (n = 7) of patients with more pronounced improvements in personality functioning. Conclusion: These findings support the hypotheses that decreasing IPF during psychotherapy is associated with increases in the capacity for affect regulation in dreams. Thus, researchers and therapists can utilize dream reports to illuminate the important aspects of treatment progress in clinical practice.
The Role of Immersive Virtual Reality Interventions in Pediatric Cerebral Palsy: A Systematic Review across Motor and Cognitive Domains
Authors: Maggio Maria Grazia , Valeri Maria Chiara , De Luca Rosaria , Di Iulio Fulvia , Ciancarelli Irene , De Francesco Morena , Calabrò Rocco Salvatore , Morone Giovanni
Published: May 2024

Background: In recent years, new technologies have been applied in cerebral palsy. Among these, immersive virtual reality is one with promising motor and cognitive effects along with the reduced costs of its application. The level of immersion of the subject in the illusional world gives the feeling of being a real part of the virtual environment. This study aims to investigate the safety and the efficacy of immersive virtual reality in children affected by cerebral palsy. Methods: PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, RehabData, and Web of Science were screened up to February 2023 to identify eligible clinical studies. Results: Out of 788, we included 15 studies involving CP patients. There was high heterogeneity in the outcomes considered, and the results showed non-inferiority to conventional therapy and initial additional benefits in comparison with conventional rehabilitation. Conclusions: Immersive virtual reality emerges as a pivotal technological tool in rehabilitation, seamlessly integrating with conventional therapy within CP rehabilitation programs. Indeed, it not only enhances motivation but significantly increases children’s functional capacity and abilities.
Movement Termination of Slow-Wave Sleep—A Potential Biomarker?
Authors: Höller Yvonne , Eyjólfsdóttir Stefanía Guðrún , Rusiňák Matej , Guðmundsson Lárus Steinþór , Trinka Eugen
Published: May 2024

The duration of slow-wave sleep (SWS) is related to the reported sleep quality and to the important variables of mental and physical health. The internal cues to end an episode of SWS are poorly understood. One such internal cue is the initiation of a body movement, which is detectable as electromyographic (EMG) activity in sleep-electroencephalography (EEG). In the present study, we characterized the termination of SWS episodes by movement to explore its potential as a biomarker. To this end, we characterized the relation between the occurrence of SWS termination by movement and individual characteristics (age, sex), SWS duration and spectral content, chronotype, depression, medication, overnight memory performance, and, as a potential neurological application, epilepsy. We analyzed 94 full-night EEG-EMG recordings (75/94 had confirmed epilepsy) in the video-EEG monitoring unit of the EpiCARE Centre Salzburg, Austria. Segments of SWS were counted and rated for their termination by movement or not through the visual inspection of continuous EEG and EMG recordings. Multiple linear regression was used to predict the number of SWS episodes that ended with movement by depression, chronotype, type of epilepsy (focal, generalized, no epilepsy, unclear), medication, gender, total duration of SWS, occurrence of seizures during the night, occurrence of tonic-clonic seizures during the night, and SWS frequency spectra. Furthermore, we assessed whether SWS movement termination was related to overnight memory retention. According to multiple linear regression, patients with overall longer SWS experienced more SWS episodes that ended with movement (t = 5.64; p = 0.001). No other variable was related to the proportion of SWS that ended with movement, including no epilepsy-related variable. A small sample (n = 4) of patients taking Sertraline experienced no SWS that ended with movement, which was significant compared to all other patients (t = 8.00; p < 0.001) and to n = 35 patients who did not take any medication (t = 4.22; p < 0.001). While this result was based on a small subsample and must be interpreted with caution, it warrants replication in a larger sample with and without seizures to further elucidate the role of the movement termination of SWS and its potential to serve as a biomarker for sleep continuity and for medication effects on sleep.
Hierarchical Constraints on the Distribution of Attention in Dynamic Displays
Authors: Xu Haokui , Zhou Jifan , Shen Mowei
Published: May 2024

Human vision is remarkably good at recovering the latent hierarchical structure of dynamic scenes. Here, we explore how visual attention operates with this hierarchical motion representation. The way in which attention responds to surface physical features has been extensively explored. However, we know little about how the distribution of attention can be distorted by the latent hierarchical structure. To explore this topic, we conducted two experiments to investigate the relationship between minimal graph distance (MGD), one key factor in hierarchical representation, and attentional distribution. In Experiment 1, we constructed three hierarchical structures consisting of two moving objects with different MGDs. In Experiment 2, we generated three moving objects from one hierarchy to eliminate the influence of different structures. Attention was probed by the classic congruent–incongruent cueing paradigm. Our results show that the cueing effect is significantly smaller when the MGD between two objects is shorter, which suggests that attention is not evenly distributed across multiple moving objects but distorted by their latent hierarchical structure. As neither the latent structure nor the graph distance was part of the explicit task, our results also imply that both the construction of hierarchical representation and the attention to that representation are spontaneous and automatic.
Ill, but Still Attractive? The Impact of Mental Illness on Attractiveness Perceptions and Social Judgment
Authors: Aydin Nilüfer , Plewe Miriam Clivia , Mahr Luisa Afra Malin , Kleber Janet
Published: May 2024

In line with the “beautiful-is-good” heuristic, numerous studies show that physically attractive individuals are perceived in a more positive light. However, building on previous findings suggesting that the “beauty–good” relationship is bidirectional, the present research investigates how information on a stigmatized attribute impacts attractiveness perceptions and social judgments. Within a controlled experimental design, we present evidence that the mere label of mental illness (i.e., schizophrenia) decreased the positivity of personality evaluations and perceived attractiveness of a male target that had previously been validated to be highly attractive. Consistent with the “good-is-beautiful” heuristic, a mental illness label led to decreased perceptions of attractiveness, which was mediated by the inference of less positive personality characteristics. This finding lends further support for the bidirectional nature of the “beauty–good” relationship and provides a valuable avenue for future research on the multifaceted ways in which the stigma of mental illness affects social perceptions.
Emotion Recognition and Self-Reported Emotion Processing in Alcohol and Cannabis Co-Using Young Adults
Authors: Cservenka Anita , Donahue Lacey C.
Published: May 2024

Alcohol and cannabis use are each associated with impairments in emotion recognition accuracy, which may promote interpersonal problems. It is unclear if emotion recognition or self-reported emotion processing differs between young adult alcohol and cannabis co-users (ACCs) and healthy controls (HCs). This study examined whether ACCs and HCs differed in their emotion recognition across two different behavioral tasks with static or dynamic faces and determined if there were differences in self-reported socio-emotional processing and alexithymia. 22 ACCs (mean age = 21.27 ± 1.75) and 25 HCs (mean age = 21.48 ± 2.68), matched on age, sex, and IQ, completed the Metrisquare Emotion Recognition Task and CANTAB Emotion Recognition Task. The ACCs and HCs were compared on task accuracy and self-reported measures, including the Social Emotional Questionnaire (SEQ) and the Perth Alexithymia Questionnaire (PAQ). No significant main effects of the Group variable or the Emotion–Group interaction variable were present for either task. The ACCs had lower SEQ (p = 0.014) and higher PAQ (p = 0.024) scores relative to the HCs, indicating greater difficulties in socio-emotional processing and identifying one’s own emotions, respectively. Understanding the behavioral correlates of the self-reported difficulties in emotion processing reported by ACCs is needed to develop interventions to reduce these symptoms and promote healthy socio-emotional functioning in this population.
Factors Affecting Sustainability-Related Career Expectations among Engineering Undergraduates in China: An Empirical Study Based on a Modified College Impact Model
Authors: Yuan Wenjing , Ma Yonghong , Deng Yichu , Liu Xianwei
Published: May 2024

The international engineering education community has reached a consensus regarding the need to enhance engineering students’ awareness of and capability to provide sustainable services in their future careers. Based on a modified college impact model, this study analyzed the impacts of curricular emphasis, curricular instruction, and sustainability-related career self-efficacy on the sustainability-related career expectations of engineering students and investigated the moderating effects of gender on the relationships among the research variables. The results show that both curricular emphasis and curricular instruction have direct positive effects on the sustainability-related career expectations of engineering students; sustainability-related career self-efficacy plays a partial mediating role in this process; and gender significantly moderates the influence of curricular emphasis and curricular instruction on sustainability-related career expectations. The findings of this study provide empirical evidence that can be used by higher education institutions and engineering educators to enhance the belief of engineering students in their ability to solve sustainability-related issues in their future careers and promote the diversification of engineering education.
Utility of Single Items within the Suicidal Behaviors Questionnaire-Revised (SBQ-R): A Bayesian Network Approach and Relative Importance Analysis
Authors: Huen Jenny Mei Yiu , Osman Augustine , Lew Bob , Yip Paul Siu Fai
Published: May 2024

The Suicidal Behaviors Questionnaire-Revised (SBQ-R) comprises four content-specific items widely used to assess the history of suicide-related thoughts, plans or attempts, frequency of suicidal ideation, communication of intent to die by suicide and self-reported likelihood of a suicide attempt. Each item focuses on a specific parameter of the suicide-related thoughts and behaviors construct. Past research has primarily focused on the total score. This study used Bayesian network modeling and relative importance analyses on SBQ-R data from 1160 U.S. and 1141 Chinese undergraduate students. The Bayesian network analysis results showed that Item 1 is suitable for identifying other parameters of the suicide-related thoughts and behaviors construct. The results of the relative importance analysis further highlighted the relevancy of each SBQ-R item score when examining evidence for suicide-related thoughts and behaviors. These findings provided empirical support for using the SBQ-R item scores to understand the performances of different suicide-related behavior parameters. Further, they demonstrated the potential value of examining individual item-level responses to offer clinically meaningful insights. To conclude, the SBQ-R allows for the evaluation of each critical suicide-related thought and behavior parameter and the overall suicide risk.
Enhancing Urban Living Convenience through Plot Patterns: A Quantitative Morphological Study
Authors: Chen Changyu , Guo Yuhan , Liu Yuxuan , Zhong Yue
Published: May 2024

Living convenience in public service facilities has attracted significant attention as a crucial indicator of urban development and quality improvement. However, the performance of plot patterns—a fundamental unit for precise control when measuring urban quality—influencing living convenience requires in-depth exploration. This study integrates multiple urban datasets with quantitative urban morphology methods to investigate the impact of various plot pattern features on living convenience. Specifically, we investigate the Inner Ring area of Shanghai as an empirical case. The assessment considers the diverse effects of facilities at different distances, accounting for the life radiuses of both older individuals and the general population. Additionally, the analysis of plot patterns includes planar and three-dimensional aspects, controlling key variables such as road network accessibility and centrality. The results indicate that, for small-scale plots, shape has a strong impact, while, for large-scale plots, the division and construction intensity within a block has a stronger influence. Furthermore, plots of different area types have different recommended construction intensities. Notably, for large-scale blocks, it is advisable to maintain a building density of around 0.3. In short, this study contributes to human-centered planning by providing targeted recommendations to address the existing deficiencies in plot morphology regulation and control from the perspective of quantitative urban morphology.
Study on the Impact of Tree Species on the Wind Environment in Tree Arrays Based on Fluid–Structure Interaction: A Case Study of Hangzhou Urban Area
Authors: Zhu Junhao , Luo Xiaojun , Zhai Yumei , Zhang Guoyi , Zhou Chicheng , Chen Zhonggou
Published: May 2024

In order to improve the level of the urban living environment and improve the comfort level of the microclimate, this paper investigates and simulates numerically the influence on the wind environment of different tree species in various tree array layouts, aiming to enhance wind comfort in tree landscapes and reduce the risk of high wind speeds. Initially, the study analyzes the commonly used tree species in Hangzhou’s urban tree arrays (beech, soapberry, and camphor trees), summarizing three types of tree array layouts: retention, through, and enclosure. Subsequently, standard tree models are established to define their crown porosity, trunk elastic modulus, and other physical characteristics. Using fluid–structure interaction methods, the impact of different tree species on the wind environment within various tree array layouts is numerically simulated at a wind speed of 14 m/s. In conclusion, the retention layout is most effective in controlling wind speed. Camphor trees perform excellently in reducing wind speed within both retention and enclosure tree array layouts, with wind reduction efficiencies of 16.06% and 14.09%, respectively. Soapberry trees show optimal wind speed reduction in the through layout, achieving 12.31%.
Transformation of Silifke—A Historic Town in Anatolia in the Ottoman Period
Authors: Akyürek Algın Meltem , Hoşkara Şebnem
Published: May 2024

This article focuses on the Ottoman Period urban fabric of Silifke, a crucial historical town in Turkey. The aim of this paper is to develop a research framework for the transfer of cultural heritage and cultural continuity in multi-layered historical cities. In this context, investigating the level of sociocultural transition and physical permeability between layers is the main problem of the article. The scope of the study consists of an approximately 1.5 km2 (150 hectares) area within the boundaries of the 3rd Degree archaeological site determined in 1995 by the Adana Cultural and Natural Heritage Conservation Regional Board. In the case area, there are building remains and 58 registered buildings, 40 of which were built during the Ottoman Period. The findings and evaluations were examined in three parts: the periods before the Ottoman Period, the Ottoman Period, and the Republican Period. Analyses were developed independently or overlapped from archive documents such as the Presidential Ottoman Archive (BOA), provincial yearbooks, engravings of travelers, photographs, aerial photographs of different years, current maps, zoning plans, and conservation plans. Then, we made descriptions and inferences about urban change/transformation, which is affected by the political, economic, social, cultural, and environmental factors of the town and will shape the future change/transformation and management of the town. The ultimate goal is to set up a basis for the Silifke town center that will guide future interventions and design and planning policies for cultural continuity.
Surface Deformation Calculation Method Based on Displacement Monitoring Data
Authors: He Lin , Yao Yibin
Published: May 2024

Considering the importance of calculating surface deformation based on monitoring data, this paper proposes a method for calculating horizontal deformation based on horizontal displacement monitoring data. This study first analyzes the characteristics of horizontal displacement monitoring data, then proposes a scheme for obtaining the surface horizontal displacement field through corresponding discrete point interpolation. Subsequently, the calculation method for surface horizontal strain is introduced, along with relevant examples. The study also systematically summarizes the calculation methods for surface curvature and surface tilt deformation values, forming a set of surface deformation calculation methods based on monitoring data. The research results indicate that when there is a large number of on-site monitoring points, effective monitoring points can be selected based on the direction of horizontal displacement. When interpolating the surface horizontal displacement field, the interpolation accuracy of the radial basis function method is slightly higher than that of ordinary Kriging. The form of coordinate expression has a significant impact on interpolation accuracy. The accuracy of interpolation using horizontal displacement vectors expressed in polar coordinates is higher than that using vectors expressed in Cartesian coordinates. The calculated surface horizontal strain has effective upper and lower limits, with lower-limit strain on the contour line conforming to the typical surface deformation patterns around mined-out areas.
Old Issues and New Perspectives on Endometrial Cancer Therapy: How Molecular Characteristics Are Changing the Therapeutic Pathway
Authors: Luvero Daniela , Cundari Gianna Barbara , Ficarola Fernando , Plotti Francesco , Terranova Corrado , Montera Roberto , Bogani Giorgio , Silvagni Adele , Celoro Federica , Angioli Roberto
Published: May 2024

The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) has radically changed the history of endometrial cancer by outlining a new classification, based on its molecular characteristics. In the field of oncology, we are approaching the new era of molecular biology, particularly regarding endometrial cancer, with the increasing importance of targeted therapy. This paper is a review of phase III randomized controlled trials published in English between January 2019 and December 2023, comparing drugs of interest with standard adjuvant treatment and molecular subtypes in endometrial cancer. The use of immunotherapy alone or in combination with chemotherapy as therapy in patients with recurrent or advanced primary or metastatic endometrial cancer significantly improves the prognosis of these patients. The results show greater efficacy of all proposed treatments for mismatch repair deficiency (dMMR/MSI-H) patients compared to mismatch repair proficiency (pMMR) patients. Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) are better in dMMR patients in all studies analysed. Immunotherapy has the potential to revolutionize the gynaecological cancer treatment landscape, offering a new pathway and new hope for endometrial cancer patients, improving their outcomes in the future. Given the exciting results obtained in dMMR/MSI-H patients, MMR status should be investigated in every patient with advanced endometrial cancer at the time of diagnosis.
Endometrial Cancer: 2023 Revised FIGO Staging System and the Role of Imaging
Authors: Menendez-Santos Manuel , Gonzalez-Baerga Carlos , Taher Daoud , Waters Rebecca , Virarkar Mayur , Bhosale Priya
Published: May 2024

The FIGO endometrial cancer staging system recently released updated guidance based on clinical evidence gathered after the previous version was published in 2009. Different imaging modalities are beneficial across various stages of endometrial cancer (EC) management. Additionally, ongoing research studies are aimed at improving imaging in EC. Gynecological cancer is a crucial element in the practice of a body radiologist. With a new staging system in place, it is important to address the role of radiology in the EC diagnostic pathway. This article is a comprehensive review of the changes made to the FIGO endometrial cancer staging system and the impact of imaging in the staging of this disease.
Lithium Polysulfide Catalytic Mechanism of AlN/InN Heterojunction by First-Principles Calculation
Authors: Ye Lingfeng , Wang Jin , Lin Zhiping , Dong Huafeng , Wu Fugen
Published: May 2024

To solve the shuttling effect and transformations of LiPSs in lithium–sulfur batteries, heterostructures have been designed to immobilize LiPSs and boost their reversible conversions. In this paper, we have constructed AlN/InN heterojunctions with AlN with a wide band gap and InN with a narrow band gap. The heterojunctions show metallic properties, which are primarily composed of 2s, 2p N atoms and 5s, 5p In atoms. InN has relatively higher adsorptivity for LiPSs than AlN. Reaction profiles show that on the surface of AlN, there is a lower rate-limiting step than on that of InN, from S8 to Li2S6, and a higher rate-limiting step from Li2S4 to Li2S2, which is more favorable for InN during the reduction from Li2S4 to Li2S2. The heterojunction can realize the synergistic reaction of trapping–diffusion–conversion for LiPSs, in which AlN traps large Li2S8 and Li2S6, the heterojunction causes the diffusion of Li2S4, and InN completes the conversion of Li2S4 to Li2S.
Clinical Efficacy of Psychotherapeutic Interventions for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review and Analysis
Authors: Gkintoni Evgenia , Kourkoutas Elias , Yotsidi Vasiliki , Stavrou Pilios Dimitris , Prinianaki Dimitra
Published: May 2024

Background: This systematic review aggregates research on psychotherapeutic interventions for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in children and adolescents. PTSD in this demographic presents differently from adults, necessitating tailored therapeutic approaches. In children and adolescents, PTSD arises from exposure to severe danger, interpersonal violence, or abuse, leading to significant behavioral and emotional disturbances that jeopardize long-term development. The review focuses on describing PTSD within two age groups, children (6 to 12 years) and adolescents (12 to 18 years), while evaluating the effectiveness of various clinical interventions aimed at this condition. Methods: Utilizing the PRISMA guidelines, this review systematically examines studies that assess clinical interventions for PTSD in the younger population. Results: Key symptoms of PTSD in children and adolescents include avoidance, overstimulation, flashbacks, depression, and anxiety. The review identifies several effective treatments, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Systemic Therapy, Play Therapy, Exposure Therapy, Relaxation Techniques, and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy. Particularly, TF-CBT is highlighted as the most effective and commonly used method in treating childhood and adolescent PTSD, as supported by most of the studies reviewed. Conclusions: A significant outcome of this study is the short-term effectiveness of CBT in reducing PTSD symptoms in children and adolescents. The findings underline the importance of psychotherapeutic interventions and mark a substantial advancement in understanding PTSD in young populations. It is crucial for practitioners to integrate various psychotherapeutic strategies into their practice to improve patient outcomes and treatment efficacy.
Congenital Long QT Syndrome in Children and Adolescents: A General Overview
Authors: Balestra Elia , Bobbo Marco , Cittar Marco , Chicco Daniela , D’Agata Mottolese Biancamaria , Barbi Egidio , Caiffa Thomas
Published: May 2024

Congenital long QT syndrome (LQTS) represents a disorder of myocardial repolarization characterized by a prolongation of QTc interval on ECG, which can degenerate into fast polymorphic ventricular arrhythmias. The typical symptoms of LQTS are syncope and palpitations, mainly triggered by adrenergic stimuli, but it can also manifest with cardiac arrest. At least 17 genotypes have been associated with LQTS, with a specific genotype–phenotype relationship described for the three most common subtypes (LQTS1, -2, and -3). β-Blockers are the first-line therapy for LQTS, even if the choice of the appropriate patients needing to be treated may be challenging. In specific cases, interventional measures, such as an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) or left cardiac sympathetic denervation (LCSD), are useful. The aim of this review is to highlight the current state-of-the-art knowledge on LQTS, providing an updated picture of possible diagnostic algorithms and therapeutic management.
Comparative Health Behaviour of Young People with Disabilities in Hungary: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Barabas Agota , Nagy Attila C. , Pazmany Viktoria , Grestyak Molnarne Anita K. , Nemeth Agnes , Jona György , Santha Agnes , Takacs Peter , Toldy-Schedel Emil , Javorne Erdei Renata
Published: May 2024

The health status of Hungary’s population is unfavorable, with significant differences in health indicators not only compared to the EU15 but also to the Visegrad countries. Unfavorable health indicators can be disproportionate and particularly affect vulnerable groups, such as people with disabilities. In this study, we set out to compare the health behavior of disabled youth and youth with typical development in Hungary. We also aimed to compare the health behavior of adolescents in the Visegrad countries. The eating habits of both groups of young people we examined are unfavorable. Adolescents with disabilities experience a significantly higher rate of school stress than children with typical development in Hungary. The prevalence of somatic complaints and parameters of poor mental well-being are significantly higher in Hungary than in the other Visegrad countries. The results indicate that additional interventions are needed in Hungary and that differentiated, professional health promotion is needed for young people with disabilities. The researchers recommend extending the study to disabled adolescents living in Visegrad countries, on the basis of which an injury-specific health promotion methodology could be developed with international interprofessional cooperation.
Controlling the Polymer Ink’s Rheological Properties to Form Single and Stable Droplet
Authors: Du Zhonghui , Zhang Lu , Du Yushuang , Wei Xiaoqing , Du Xiang , Lin Xinyan , Liu Jiajun , Huang Yani , Xue Yan , Zhao Ning , Liu Hongbo
Published: May 2024

The formation of single and stable ink droplets is crucial for producing high-quality functional films in drop-on-demand (DOD) inkjet printing. The stability and singularity of droplet formation are significantly influenced by filament breakup behavior, governed by the rheological parameters of the ink formula. This study explores the droplet formation behavior of Poly3-hexylthiophene (P3HT) ink across various Weber numbers (We) and assesses the impact of the Z value on the formation of single ink droplets. Observations reveal that as the We number increases, droplet morphology transitions from single to double, and eventually to sputtered droplets. Results demonstrate that stable, single droplets form when the We number ≤ 13 and 12 < Z < 34, with a pulse duration of approximately 340 μs. When the We number exceeds 13, the molecular chains of P3HT stretch due to high hydrodynamic forces, resulting in the formation of unwanted satellite droplets.
Studies on the Quality of Joints and Phenomena Therein for Welded Automotive Components Made of Aluminum Alloy—A Review
Authors: Derbiszewski Bogdan , Obraniak Andrzej , Rylski Adam , Siczek Krzysztof , Wozniak Marek
Published: May 2024

To fulfill the need to limit automotive emissions, reducing vehicle weight is widely recommended and achieved in many ways, both by the construction of individual elements of the vehicle and by the selection of light materials, including Al alloys. Connecting these elements with each other and with elements made of iron alloys can be realized, inter alia, by welding or stir welding. However, the quality of the welds obtained varies widely and depends on many design, operational, and environmental factors. The present study focused on a review of various welding techniques used to join both similar and dissimilar Al alloys utilized in the automotive industry, the effect of various process parameters on weld quality, and the phenomena observed in such welds. The research methodology was based on the analysis of the content of articles from main databases. Apart from capturing the current state of the art, this review evaluates reaching the possible highest joint quality and welding process disadvantages such as porosity, poor surface quality, a tendency toward hot cracking, and low ductility for the Al alloys applied in the automotive industry.
The Effect of Applying UV LED-Cured Varnish to Metalized Printing Elements during Cold Foil Lamination
Authors: Majnarić Igor , Morić Marko , Valdec Dean , Milković Katja
Published: May 2024

The coating process involves applying a thin material layer to a surface to engender it with specific desirable properties or enhance its performance. In the production of print media (labels, packaging, printed textiles, and promotional materials), the standard functions of the coating process include visual decoration, which involves the addition of appealing colors, textures, and patterns. A pertinent issue in the printing industry is that at present, the predominant coating process uses printing and coating technologies (gravure, flexo, letterset, letterpress, screen printing, inkjet, and electrophotography) and lamination (i.e., attaching decorative layers of materials, such as films or fabrics). In this paper, we present a new method for testing the efficiency with which different-sized metalized printing elements (using gold foil) may be applied to paper substrates; to do so, we gradually vary the amount UV-cured inkjet varnish (or adhesive) that is applied. To test the effectiveness of this method in producing metallic visual effects, we utilize seven different thicknesses of UV-cured varnish with the aid of modular piezo inkjet heads (KM1024 iLHE-30) and three different printing speeds. Our research shows that to achieve optimal production of cold metalized foil, a 21 µm layer should be deposited, and the substrate should move at a speed of 0.30 m/s.
Al2O3 Coatings for Protection of Stainless Steel 316L against Corrosion in Zn-Al and Zn-Al-Mg
Authors: Alparone Giovanni Paolo , Penney David , Sullivan James , Edy James , Mills Christopher
Published: May 2024

The production and quality of automotive-grade galvanised steel are affected by the limited service life of the pot roll bearings used in continuous galvanising lines. The journal bearings are subjected to severe degradation as they react with the molten Zn bath, and coatings can provide corrosion protection to the bearing materials. This research investigates the performance of Al2O3 coatings applied via the HVOF thermal spray process to stainless steel 316L substrates. Immersion tests were conducted in baths of different compositions, namely GI (Zn-0.3 wt.% Al) and ZMA (Zn-1.5 wt.% Al-1.5 wt.% Mg). Material characterisation after testing showed evidence of coating degradation after 1 week, as the coating tended to crack and detach from the substrate, allowing the molten Zn to attack the underlying steel. The coefficient of thermal expansion of Al2O3 and steel was measured, and a difference of 13 × 10−6 K−1 was found, leading to the development of cracks in the coatings. Zn penetration through cracks was determined to be the main failure mechanism of the Al2O3 coatings, which otherwise remained inert to Zn-Al. Conversely, the coatings immersed in Zn-Al-Mg reacted with the Mg in the molten metal bath, showing that changing bath composition affected the performance of the coatings in molten Zn alloy.
Recent Progress in Electromagnetic Wave Absorption Coatings: From Design Principles to Applications
Authors: Jin Yang , Yu Haojie , Wang Yun , Wang Li , Nan Bohua
Published: May 2024

It is essential to develop electromagnetic (EM) wave-absorbing materials with exceptional versatility to address a variety of applications, including anti-radar stealth, EM radiation protection, and EM interference shielding. EM wave absorption coatings, mainly composed of matrices and EM absorbers, have excellent practical performance. Researchers have been developing advanced EM absorption coating with properties like thin, light, broadband, and anti-aging. This review summarizes the recent progress in EM absorption coatings, including the design principles, feedstocks, manufacturing techniques, performance evaluation methods, and applications. Finally, the current challenges and future research directions are discussed.
Study on the Influence of Particle Size Distribution on the Separation of Pyrite from Coal Gangue by Jigging
Authors: Hou Xinkai , Xi Zhentong , Wang Xiangfeng , Ji Wenjuan
Published: May 2024

The presence of pyrite poses a significant impediment to the comprehensive utilization of coal gangue, which is a prevalent solid waste in industrial production. However, the current efficacy of jig separation for pyrite in fine-grade coal gangue remains unsatisfactory. To investigate the influence of particle size distribution on the jig separation of pyrite in fine-grade coal gangue, the raw material was crushed to less than 2 mm using a jaw crusher and subsequently sieved to obtain its particle size distribution curve. Upon fitting the curve, it was observed that it tends towards the Rosin-Rammler (RRSB) and Fuller distributions. Leveraging these two-parameter distribution curves, adjustments were made to determine the mass within each particle size range before conducting thorough mixing followed by jig separation. The results indicate that for fine-grade gangue particles smaller than 2 mm, the RRSB distribution with a uniformity coefficient of n = 0.85 exhibits the most effective separation, although it is comparable to the separation achieved using the size distribution of raw ore. On the other hand, employing the Fuller distribution with modulus of distribution q = 1.5 yields superior separation performance. In comparison to the raw ore, the concentrate shows an increase in sulfur (S) and iron (Fe) content by factors of 3.4 and 2.4, respectively. Furthermore, compared to the RRSB distribution, there is an increase in S and Fe content by 1.91% and 2.30%, respectively; the contents of S and Fe in tailings is 0.71% and 2.72%, which can be directly used as raw materials for coating materials. Therefore, for fine-grade coal gangue particles, jigging under the Fuller distribution demonstrates better effectiveness than under the RRSB distribution.
A Strategy of Candle Soot-Based Photothermal Icephobic Superhydrophobic Surface
Authors: Qian Chenlu , Wang Lu , Li Qiang , Chen Xuemei
Published: May 2024

Anti-icing/de-icing is of fundamental importance in practical applications such as power transmission, wind turbines, and aerofoils. Despite recent efforts in developing engineering surfaces to delay ice accumulation or reduce ice adhesion, it remains challenging to design robust photothermal icephobic surfaces in a durable, low-cost, easy-fabrication manner. Here, we report an intelligent candle soot-based photothermal surface (PDMS/CS60@PDMS/Al) that can utilize sunlight illumination to achieve the multi-abilities of anti-icing, de-icing, and self-cleaning. Our method lies in the construction of hierarchical micro/nanostructures by depositing photothermal candle soot nanoparticles, which endow the surface with superior superhydrophobicity and excellent photothermal performance. The underlying mechanism is exploited by establishing the heat transfer model between the droplets and the cooled surface. We believe that the smart PDMS/CS60@PDMS/Al developed in this work could provide a feasible strategy to design intelligent engineering surfaces for enhanced anti-icing/de-icing.
Optimizing Nickel Electroplating in Low-Ni Environments for Efficient Source Production in Small Plating Baths
Authors: Kang Gujin , Kim Jongbum , Kim Jin , Kim Jinjoo , Hong Jintae , Kim Sangwook
Published: May 2024

Electroplating nickel-63, a radioactive isotope used in betavoltaic batteries and random number generators, requires precise control due to its limited availability and the generation of radioactive waste. To minimize waste and ensure effective plating, small plating baths are employed, optimizing the process within constrained conditions. X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) were utilized to determine the optimal plating conditions and limiting conditions for nickel electroplating in a small plating bath. This study focuses on the use of low-concentration nickel solutions and small plating equipment, in contrast to the common industrial practice of using high concentrations of nickel. Here, it is important to optimize the plating parameters, especially the nickel concentration, current density, and bath temperature. An average thickness of 1.8 μm was found when plating with a nickel concentration of 0.06 M, a current density of 5 mA/cm2, and a solution temperature of 40 °C, while ideal conditions were found to achieve the theoretical maximum energy and 90% release rate when plating with nickel-63 instead of Ni.