bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of Liver-Targeting αVβ5+ Exosomes as Anti-TGF-β Nanocarriers for the Treatment of the Pre-Metastatic Niche
Authors: Acosta Montaño Paloma , Olvera Félix Eréndira , Castro Flores Veronica , Hernández García Arturo , Cadena-Nava Ruben D. , Galindo Hernández Octavio , Juárez Patricia , Fournier Pierrick G. J.
Published: December 2024

Liver metastases frequently occur in pancreatic and colorectal cancer. Their development is promoted by tumor-derived exosomes with the integrin αVβ5 on their membrane. This integrin directs exosomes to the liver, where they promote a TGF-β-dependent pre-metastatic niche. We proposed the development of αVβ5+ exosomes to deliver anti-TGF-β therapy to the liver. This study demonstrates that the overexpression of αVβ5 in 293T cells allows its transfer to the secreted exosomes. αVβ5 overexpression increases exosome delivery to the liver, and αVβ5+ exosomes accumulate more in the liver compared to the lungs, kidneys, and brain in mice. We then sought 293T cells to directly produce and load an anti-TGF-β agent in their exosomes. First, we transduced 293T cells to express shRNAs against Tgfb1; however, the exosomes isolated from these cells did not knock down Tgfb1 in treated macrophages in vitro. However, when 293T expressed an mRNA coding a soluble form of betaglycan (sBG), a TGF-β inhibitor, this mRNA was detected in the isolated exosomes and the protein in the conditioned media of macrophages treated in vitro. In turn, this conditioned media decreased the TGF-β-induced phosphorylation of SMAD2/3 in hepatic cells in vitro. Our findings suggest that αVβ5+ exosomes could serve as nanocarriers for liver-targeted anti-TGF-β therapies.
A Ratiometric Fluorescence Method Based on PCN-224-DABA for the Detection of Se(IV) and Fe(III)
Authors: Luo Mao-Ling , Chen Guo-Ying , Li Wen-Jia , Li Jia-Xin , Chai Tong-Qing , Qian Zheng-Ming , Yang Feng-Qing
Published: December 2024

In this study, 3,4-diaminobenzoic acid (DABA) was introduced into the porphyrin metal–organic framework (PCN-224) for the first time to prepare a ratiometric fluorescent probe (PCN-224-DABA) to quantitatively detect ferric iron (Fe(III)) and selenium (IV) (Se(IV)). The fluorescence attributed to the DABA of PCN-224-DABA at 345 nm can be selectively quenched by Fe(III) and Se(IV), but the fluorescence emission peak attributed to tetrakis (4-carboxyphenyl) porphyrin (TCPP) at 475 nm will not be disturbed. Therefore, the ratio of I345nm/I475nm with an excitation wavelength of 270 nm can be designed to determine Fe(III) and Se(IV). After the experimental parameters were systematically optimized, the developed method shows good selectivity and interference resistance for Fe(III) and Se(IV) detection, and has good linearity in the ranges of 0.01–4 μM and 0.01–15 μM for Fe(III) and Se(IV) with a limit of detection of 0.045 μM and 0.804 μM, respectively. Furthermore, the quenching pattern was investigated through the Stern–Volmer equation, and the results suggest that both Se(IV) and Fe(III) quenched on PCN-224-DABA can be attributed to the dynamic quenching. Finally, the constructed ratiometric fluorescent probe was applied in the spiked detection of lake water samples, which shows good applicability in real sample analysis. Moreover, the Fe(III) and Se(IV) contents in spinach and selenium-enriched rice were determined, respectively.
Wearable Sensors and Motion Analysis for Neurological Patient Support
Authors: Dabnichki Peter , Pang Toh Yen
Published: December 2024

This work discusses the state of the art and challenges in using wearable sensors for the monitoring of neurological patients. The authors share their experience from their participation in numerous projects, ranging from drug trials to rehabilitation intervention assessment, and identify the obstacles in the way of the integrated adoption of wearable sensors in clinical and rehabilitation practices for neurological patients. Several highly promising developments are outlined and analyzed. It is considered that intelligent textiles are an attractive option, as they offer an esthetic outlook to and positive interaction with their users.
Lifestyle and Environment Influence the Psychological Well-Being of Elderly Subjects in Italy
Authors: Migliore Simone , De Angelis Marco , Di Pompeo Ilaria , Lozzi Daniele , Marcaccio Martina , Curcio Giuseppe
Published: December 2024

Background/Objective: Aging is associated with both cognitive and physical decline. Some factors, such as lifestyle and environment, can significantly contribute to accelerating or slowing down the decline processes. Our study aimed to evaluate the impact of lifestyle (active vs. non-active) and environmental context (institutionalized vs. non-institutionalized) on the cognitive functioning, psychological well-being, sleep quality, and daily living skills of elderly people. Methods: Our sample consisted of 182 subjects divided into active and non-active groups (subjects who engage or not in physical and social activities, respectively; mean age in years: 67.19 vs. 68.75) and 245 subjects divided into institutionalized and non-institutionalized groups (i.e., living in a nursing home or not, respectively; mean age in years: 79.49 vs. 71.72). Participants were enrolled voluntarily and randomly in the city of L’Aquila. A battery of psychological instruments was administered to evaluate general cognitive decline, depressive symptoms, self-assessed sleep quality, and daily living skills. Results: Regarding lifestyle, the active group exhibited significantly lower levels of depression, better sleep quality, and daily living skills with respect to the non-active group. Regarding environmental context, institutionalized subjects showed higher levels of depression and reduced cognitive functioning, which were linked to reduced sleep quality and worsened daily living skills. When comparing the non-active with the institutionalized group, the latter showed higher levels of depression and reduced cognitive functioning, more sleep complaints, and reduced daily living skills. Conclusions: Our study highlights that an active lifestyle and a non-institutionalized environment, both allowing greater mobility and autonomy, are two factors that positively contribute to the mental and physical well-being of elderly individuals. Furthermore, the healthcare institution context appears to have a greater negative impact on the psycho-physical well-being of the subjects involved compared to a non-active lifestyle.
Depression, Anxiety, and Neuropsychiatric Symptom Burden in a Longitudinal Cohort with Persistent Psychophysical Post-COVID Olfactory Dysfunction
Authors: Saak Tiana M. , Tervo Jeremy P. , Vilarello Brandon J. , Jacobson Patricia T. , Caruana Francesco F. , Spence Matthew D. A. , Gallagher Liam W. , Gudis David A. , Motter Jeffrey N. , Devanand Davangere P. , Overdevest Jonathan B.
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Olfactory dysfunction (OD) is associated with a variety of neurologic deficits and impacts socialization decisions, mood, and overall quality of life. As a common symptom comprising the long COVID condition, persistent COVID-19-associated olfactory dysfunction (C19OD) may further impact the presentations of neuropsychiatric sequelae. Our study aims to characterize the longitudinal burden of depression, anxiety, and neuropsychiatric symptoms in a population with C19OD. Methods: Individuals with perceived C19OD completed a psychophysical screening evaluation of their sense of smell using the comprehensive Sniffin’ Sticks olfactory assessment. Only those with validated psychophysical OD were included in this prospective longitudinal study for baseline and one-year follow-up. Participants also completed PHQ-9, Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), and neuropsychiatric symptom questionnaires at each time point. Anxiety, depression, and neuropsychiatric symptom prevalence was calculated and compared between time points with Pearson’s chi-squared, Fisher’s exact, and Wilcoxon rank sum tests. Results: Each neuropsychiatric symptom evaluated in this study was reported by 13–49% of longitudinal cohort participants at both baseline and follow-up, except for seizure (0% at baseline and follow-up) and word-finding difficulty (61–68% at baseline and follow-up). Word-finding and focus difficulties were the most commonly reported symptoms. In total, 41% of participants reported some level of depression at baseline and 38% of participants reported depression at one-year follow-up, while 29% and 27% of participants reported some level of anxiety at respective time points. Conclusions: Individuals with C19OD are at risk for developing persistent neuropsychiatric conditions. These neurologic and psychiatric sequelae are persistent with repeated longitudinal assessment, even at nearly 2.5 years following initial COVID-19 diagnosis.
Obsessive–Compulsive Symptoms in the General Population Under Stressful Conditions: Lessons Learned from the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Pellegrini Luca , Albert Umberto , Carmassi Claudia , Carrà Giuseppe , Cirulli Francesca , Dell’Osso Bernardo , Di Vincenzo Matteo , Luciano Mario , Nanni Maria Giulia , Pompili Maurizio , Sani Gabriele , Tortorella Alfonso , Volpe Umberto , Fiorillo Andrea , Sampogna Gaia
Published: December 2024

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic had a negative impact on mental health in the general population. The fear, stress, and uncertainty surrounding that traumatic period could have contributed to the aggravation or possible new onset of obsessive–compulsive symptoms. Methods: The COvid Mental hEalth Trial (COMET) is a nationwide project organized by the University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, designed as an observational investigation that aimed to gather data from a representative sample of the Italian general population. The current study is a report from the main project and it focuses on obsessive–compulsive (OC) symptoms. Results: A total sample of N = 20,720 took part in the survey. N = 2332 individuals had a total Obsessive–Compulsive Inventory—Revised (OCI-R) score greater than or equal to 21 (11.3% of the entire sample), indicating the presence of clinically relevant obsessive–compulsive symptoms. By excluding patients with a history of previous mental illnesses, we still obtained a high number of individuals with an OCI-R score greater than or equal to 21 (N = 2024), representing 10.3% of the overall sample, possibly indicating a new incidence of OC symptoms during the pandemic. Discussion: Our study highlights a substantial new incidence of obsessive–compulsive symptoms in the general public. Risk factors or red flags such as being male, being of working age, living in a highly stressful environment such as one of the Italian regions most affected and severely hit by the pandemic, having higher levels of loneliness, and using substances to cope with stress, should be paid particular attention in order to prevent the development of OC symptoms during a critical and traumatic event such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
How Does Gamification Improve Purchase Intention? Through the Lens of Perceived Brand Coolness and Time Poverty
Authors: Liao Yingchuan , Zhou Fei , Chen Youcheng , Wu Yenchun Jim
Published: December 2024

Gamification has been extensively employed in marketing practices to meet the diverse needs of consumers. Previous research suggests that gamification marketing plays a pivotal role in influencing customer purchase intention. However, the precise mechanism through which gamification marketing impacts purchase intention requires further investigation. Drawing on the self-determination theory (SDT), this study explores the relationship between gamification marketing and purchase intention, with customers’ perceived brand coolness as a mediating variable and time poverty as a moderating variable. Using data collected from 184 participants in the experiment, our research demonstrates that, in comparison to non-gamification marketing, gamification marketing significantly influences purchase intention. Furthermore, perceived brand coolness emerges as a mediating factor in this relationship, providing new insights into the gamification mechanism. Customers who are in low time poverty exert more perceived brand coolness and purchase intentions compared with high time poverty in the context of gamification marketing. This study expands the research of gamification by introducing perceived brand coolness to the relationship between gamification marketing and purchase intention. It also contributes to the study of time poverty under the context of gamification marketing.
The Impact of Different Types of Exercise on Executive Functions in Overweight/Obese Individuals: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis
Authors: Guo Jia , Liu Jingqi , Zhu Ruihan , Liu Guochun , Zheng Man , Cao Chunmei
Published: December 2024

To compare the effects of different exercise training on executive function (EF) in obese or overweight individuals. PubMed, Web of Science, SPORTDiscus, MEDLINE, and CINAHL. The included articles, in English, should have been published from January 2000 to February 2024. All included studies were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of exercise intervention in overweight or obese populations. The primary outcomes are EFs, which encompass core functions (e.g., inhibitory control, working memory (WM), and cognitive flexibility (CF)) and higher-level functions (e.g., responding, planning, and problem-solving). Therefore, the primary outcomes should include at least one of the above indicators. Additionally, given the focus of many exercise intervention studies on academic performance (AP) in obese adolescents, a secondary outcome includes AP. This meta-analysis synthesizes findings from 20 RCTs published between 2010 and 2023, encompassing a total of 1183 overweight or obese participants. Interventions were categorized into seven types: control training (CT), aerobic exercise (AE), resistance training (RT), coordinated physical activity (CPA), prolonged time of exercise (PTE), high-intensity interval training (HIIT), and AE combined with RT (mix mode, MIX). The surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) results demonstrated the preferable effects of various interventions on EF improvement. SUCRA values indicate that CPA performs best in improving the accuracy and reaction speed of CF, as well as the reaction speed of inhibitory control in children and adolescents. AE shows significant effects in enhancing AP in this population. Additionally, PTE excels in improving CF and inhibitory control in middle-aged and older adults. Through subgroup analysis based on age and intervention duration, we found AE exhibited a significant effect on interventions for the 0–17 age group (SMD = 0.84, 95%CI = 0.31~1.38, p = 0.002) and interventions lasting 8–16 weeks showed significant improvement in EFs (SMD = 0.53, 95%CI = 0.00~1.05, p = 0.048). There was also a significant difference between CPA intervention and CT (SMD = 1.12, 95%CI = 0.45~1.80, p = 0.001) in children and adolescents. Additionally, PTE showed significant effects for middle-aged adults aged 17–59 (SMD = 0.93, 95%CI = 0.11~1.96, p < 0.027). Conclusions: This NMA found that CPA and AE have significant benefits for CF, inhibitory control, and AP in children and adolescents. Furthermore, PTE improves EFs in adults and older adults. Combining the findings of this study with previous related research, we recommend that OW/OB begin by interrupting prolonged sedentary behavior and increasing fragmented physical activity, gradually incorporating AE, RT, and CPA (such as jump rope).
Skin Cancer Knowledge, Sun Exposure, Photoprotection Behavior, and Perceived Barriers Associated with Skin Cancer Types in a Greek Cohort: A Cross-Sectional Study on the Island of Crete
Authors: Koumaki Dimitra , Evangelou Georgios , Gregoriou Stamatios , Kouloumvakou Stamatoula , Manios Andreas , Katoulis Alexander , Zacharopoulos Georgios , Chernyshov Pavel , Papadakis Marios , Kassotakis Dimitrios , Manios Georgios , Rovithi Evangelia , Zografaki Kyriaki , Doxastaki Aikaterini , Gkiaouraki Ioanna , Petrou Danae , Marazaki Faidra , Mylonakis Dimitrios , de Bree Eelco , Krasagakis Konstantinos
Published: December 2024

Background: This study aimed to explore the relationship between different types of skin cancer and factors such as sun exposure and photoprotection measures in a Greek cohort on the island of Crete. Methods: This cross-sectional observational study was conducted in the Dermatology Department of the University Hospital in Heraklion, Crete, between January 2019 and January 2024. The study population included consecutive patients diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and malignant melanoma (MM), as well as healthy controls. The participants completed a self-reported questionnaire covering demographic and clinical data as well as questions about sun exposure and photoprotection habits. Results: A total of 265 skin cancer patients and 106 healthy controls participated in the study: 50.6% of the patients had basal cell carcinoma, 35.1% had squamous cell carcinoma, and 14.3% had malignant melanoma. The cohort comprised 41.5% females and 58.5% males, with a mean age of 73.2 years. As expected, the patients with skin cancer had a lighter skin phototype compared to the healthy controls (p < 0.01). They also reported greater occupational (p < 0.01) and leisure sun exposure (p < 0.01) and a higher median number of vacation weeks spent outdoors before the age of 18 (p = 0.030). Furthermore, the healthy controls were more likely to use sunscreen (p = 0.035) and preferred higher SPF (>50) when they did so (p < 0.01). The healthy controls also reported more frequent use of sunglasses (p < 0.01), brimmed hats (p < 0.01), and long-sleeved clothing (p < 0.01) compared to the skin cancer patients. Conclusion: This is the first study to analyze sun exposure and photoprotection behaviors in patients with nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC) and malignant melanoma (MM) in Crete, revealing the key associations and underscoring the need for targeted prevention strategies.
Microbeam Radiation Therapy Bio-Dosimetry Enhanced by Novel Radiosensitiser Combinations in the Treatment of Brain Cancer
Authors: Valceski Michael , Engels Elette , Vogel Sarah , Paino Jason , Potter Dylan , Hollis Carolyn , Khochaiche Abass , Barnes Micah , O’Keefe Alice , Cameron Matthew , Roughley Kiarn , Rosenfeld Anatoly , Lerch Michael , Corde Stéphanie , Tehei Moeava
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Brain cancer is notoriously resistant to traditional treatments, including radiotherapy. Microbeam radiation therapy (MRT), arrays of ultra-fast synchrotron X-ray beams tens of micrometres wide (called peaks) and spaced hundreds of micrometres apart (valleys), is an effective alternative to conventional treatments. MRT’s advantage is that normal tissues can be spared from harm whilst maintaining tumour control. Combining MRT with targeted radiosensitisers, such as nanoparticles, chemotherapeutic drugs, and halogenated pyrimidine drugs, can further improve radiotherapy by enhancing radiation damage. However, the underlying mechanisms of MRT are still being understood, which is essential to ensuring the reliable and successful use of MRT. Methods: An in vitro study was performed using γH2AX imaging, and quantification was performed via confocal microscopy and a clonogenic cell survival assay. Results: We show that methotrexate chemotherapeutics and iododeoxyuridine enhance MRT cell-killing and thulium oxide nanoparticles (TmNPs) broaden MRT peaks, and using γH2AX immunofluorescent confocal microscopy to quantify DNA damage, we further our knowledge of MRT mechanisms. γH2AX images verify the biological responses of cells aligning with the physical collimation of MRT, and we can accurately measure MRT microbeam characteristics bio-dosimetrically. The peak-to-valley dose ratio (PVDR), the ratio of the peak dose to the valley dose that characterises an MRT field, was accurately measured biologically using γH2AX imaging, despite studies previously finding this challenging. Conclusions: The measurement of biological PVDR has been performed for the first time with high-Z radiosensitisers, including nanoparticles, and several novel radiosensitiser-enhanced MRT mechanisms were discovered. Our results deepen our understanding of MRT with radiosensitisers, and can contribute to its accurate and future successful use in treating cancer.
Metal Oxide Nanoparticles as Efficient Nanocarriers for Targeted Cancer Therapy: Addressing Chemotherapy-Induced Disabilities
Authors: Yassin Mohamed Taha , Al-Otibi Fatimah O. , Al-Sahli Sarah A. , El-Wetidy Mohammad S. , Mohamed Sara
Published: December 2024

Cancer remains a predominant global health concern, necessitating effective treatment options. Conventional cancer therapies, particularly chemotherapy, often face constraints such as low selectivity, insufficient solubility, and multidrug resistance (MDR), which diminish effectiveness and exacerbate negative effects. Metal oxide nanoparticles (MONPs), such as iron oxide, zinc oxide, and copper oxide, offer a promising solution by enhancing targeted drug delivery, reducing systemic toxicity, and mitigating chemotherapy-induced disabilities like neurotoxicity and cardiotoxicity. Nanocarriers conjugated with drugs can improve drug delivery within the body and enhance their circulation in the bloodstream. Recent advancements in MONP synthesis and functionalization have further improved their stability and drug-loading capacity, making them a valuable tool in cancer treatment. MONPs have distinctive physicochemical characteristics, enabling better imaging, drug encapsulation, and targeted medication delivery to cancerous cells. These nanocarriers enhance treatment effectiveness through focused and controlled drug release, reducing off-target effects and addressing drug resistance. This review aims to explore the potential of MONPs as efficient nanocarriers for anticancer drugs, addressing limitations of traditional chemotherapy such as poor specificity, systemic toxicity, and drug resistance. Additionally, the review discusses recent advancements in MONP synthesis and functionalization, which enhance their stability, drug-loading capacity, and compatibility.
The Efficacy of Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography Scan (PET CT Scan) in the Diagnosis of Local Recurrence and Metastases in Surgical Patients with Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Last 5 Years (2020–2024)
Authors: Papadopoulos Konstantinos , Iakovou Ioannis , Mantalovas Stylianos , Kosmidis Christoforos S. , Laskou Stiliani , Karakousis Vasileios Alexandros , Sevva Christina , Dagher Marios , Roulia Panagiota , Kountouri Ismini , Kesisoglou Isaak , Sapalidis Konstantinos
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is a highly aggressive tumor, as it is characterized by a high probability of local recurrence and distant metastases, even after surgical treatment. Early detection of disease recurrence is critical for improving long-term treatment outcomes and overall patient survival. By comparing different radiopharmaceuticals, this analysis aimed to strengthen existing guidelines and help bridge the gap between the recommendations of the ESMO and the ATA, highlighting the importance of PET/CT scanning in the postoperative follow-up of patients with MTC. Methods: This research was carried out using three searchable databases, PubMed, ScienceDirect, and ResearchGate, resulting in 575 bibliographic studies up to the date of 20 June 2024. A meta-analysis of diagnostic accuracy was performed using the software Meta—DiSc, Version: 2.0 (Universidad Complutense, Barcelona, Spain), which led to aggregate assessments and the design of the SROC. Results: A quality assessment of the eligible studies was conducted, and the key findings were summarized. Conclusions: Regardless of methodology, PET/CT scanning exhibits high sensitivity and specificity values in the diagnosis of local recurrence and metastases in surgical patients with medullary thyroid carcinoma. Furthermore, based on a comparative analysis of18F-FDG and GA68-DOTATE, it appears that these misunderstood radiopharmaceuticals are particularly sensitive and reliable for highlighting MTC, and it was found that there were no statistical differences in terms of sensitivity and specificity. Therefore, these two modalities appear to be complementary in monitoring MTC patients.
The Role of miR-486-5p on CSCs Phenotypes in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Etzi Federica , Griñán-Lisón Carmen , Fenu Grazia , González-Titos Aitor , Pisano Andrea , Farace Cristiano , Sabalic Angela , Picon-Ruiz Manuel , Marchal Juan Antonio , Madeddu Roberto
Published: December 2024

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third diagnosed cancer worldwide. Forty-four percent of metastatic colorectal cancer patients were diagnosed at an early stage. Despite curative resection, approximately 40% of patients will develop metastases within a few years. Previous studies indicate the presence of cancer stem cells (CSCs) and their contribution to CRC progression and metastasis. miRNAs deregulation plays a role in CSCs formation and in tumor development. In light of previous studies, we investigated the role of miR-486-5p to understand its role in CSC better. Methods: The expression of miR-486-5p was assessed in adherent cells and spheres generated from two CRC cell lines to observe the difference in expression in CSC-enriched spheroids. Afterward, we overexpressed and underexpressed this miRNA in adherent and sphere cultures through the transfection of a miR-486-5p mimic and a mimic inhibitor. Results: The results demonstrated that miR-486-5p exhibited a notable downregulation in CSC models, and its overexpression led to a significant decrease in colony size. Conclusions: In this study, we confirmed that miR-486-5p plays an oncosuppressive role in CRC, thereby advancing our understanding of the role of this microRNA in the CSC phenotype.
ITO-TiO2 Heterojunctions on Glass Substrates for Photocatalytic Gold Growth Along Pattern Edges
Authors: Abshari Fatemeh , Paulsen Moritz , Veziroglu Salih , Vahl Alexander , Gerken Martina
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the effects of varying indium tin oxide (ITO) layer thicknesses and the patterning of the ITO layer on the growth of metallic gold (Au) nano- and microstructures on titanium dioxide (TiO2) templates. The ITO-TiO2 heterojunction serves to collect photogenerated electrons in the ITO sublayer, facilitating their transport to the pattern edges and concentrating photocatalytic activity at these edges. Six template types were fabricated on glass substrates, with systematic variations in ITO thickness (0, 3, 6, 10, and 30 nm) and different ITO patterning methods (either continuous or patterned with the TiO2 layer). Photocatalytic gold growth was carried out on each of the substrates, and morphological analysis was conducted using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results showed that a 6 nm ITO layer beneath a 70 nm TiO2 layer yielded the most uniform gold lines, characterized by 3D flower-shaped structures and enhanced edge growth. Conductance measurements indicated a value of 23 mS, suggesting potential applications in bio-inspired electronics. These findings provide insights into optimizing gold structure growth for advanced neuromorphic devices.
Tumor Intrinsic Immunogenicity Suppressor SETDB1 Worsens the Prognosis of Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Yin Chang-Qing , Song Chun-Qing
Published: December 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is clinically distinguished by its covert onset, rapid progression, high recurrence rate, and poor prognosis. Studies have revealed that SETDB1 (SET Domain Bifurcated 1) is a histone H3 methyltransferase located on chromosome 1 and plays a crucial role in carcinogenesis. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the clinical significance of SETDB1 expression in HCC. In patients with HCC, elevated levels of SETDB1 correlated with a poorer overall survival (OS) rate, marking it as an independent prognostic factor for HCC, as revealed by both univariate and multivariate Cox analyses. Furthermore, we utilized the SangerBox and TISIDB databases to profile the tumor immune microenvironment in HCC, including scoring the tumor microenvironment and assessing immune cell infiltration. The TIDE algorithm was employed to examine the association between SETDB1 expression and immune responses. Our findings indicated that SETDB1 expression negatively correlated with the majority of immune cells, a wide range of immune cell marker genes, and numerous immune pathways, thereby leading to the reduced effectiveness of immune checkpoint inhibitors. Lastly, both in vivo and ex vivo experiments were conducted to substantiate the role of SETDB1 in HCC tumorigenesis. In conclusion, the upregulation of SETDB1 is associated with a poorer prognosis in HCC patients and inversely correlates with immune cell infiltration, potentially serving as a predictive marker for immunotherapy response.
The Formyl Peptid Receptor Ligand Ac2-26 Improves the Integrity of the Blood−Brain Barrier in the Course of Pneumococcal Meningitis
Authors: Deutloff Johannes , Pöhner Irina , Rößler Johann , Kipp Markus , Tauber Simone C. , Brandenburg Lars-Ove
Published: December 2024

Background: The brain is protected from invading pathogens by the blood−brain barrier (BBB) and the innate immune system. Pattern recognition receptors play a crucial role in detecting bacteria and initiating the innate immune response. Among these are G-protein-coupled formyl peptide receptors (FPR), which are expressed by immune cells in the central nervous system. In this study, we investigated the influence of the FPR ligand Ac2-26 on the integrity of the BBB during pneumococcal meningitis. Methods: Wild-type (WT) and Fpr1- and Fpr2-deficient mice were intrathecally infected with Streptococcus pneumoniae. Subsequently, different groups of mice were treated with intraperitoneal injections of Ac2-26. The integrity of the BBB was analyzed using various markers through immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence. Results: The results showed reduced BBB integrity during the course of bacterial meningitis. Treatment with Ac2-26 in WT mice significantly prolonged the maintenance of BBB integrity. However, this effect was not observed in Fpr2-deficient mice. Conclusions: This study extends previous findings on the anti-inflammatory properties of Ac2-26 by demonstrating that Ac2-26 positively affects BBB integrity via FPR2 during pneumococcal meningitis. These findings suggest that further investigation of Ac2-26 and other FPR modulators as potential therapies for Streptococcus pneumoniae-induced meningitis is warranted.
Sustainable Urban Regeneration with Wind and Thermal Environment Optimization: Design Roadshow of a Historic Town in China
Authors: Lin Yijie , Zhang Menglong , Yi Chang , Zhang Yin , Xiong Jianwu , Lv Liangbiao , Peng Xiaoke , He Jinyu
Published: December 2024

With the acceleration of urbanization, many traditional buildings have been dismantled and built indiscriminately, resulting in a uniform urban landscape. The problem of urban microclimate has been aggravated, and the renovation of historic districts, especially including the renewal of microclimate, has become an important component of sustainable urban renewal. The old commercial street in Huili Ancient City is used as an example in this paper. Through literature research, we note that previous studies have mainly examined the renewal of historic districts from the perspective of the old city environment, while most of the traditional neighborhood renewal designs have neglected the wind and heat environments. Combining the limitations of previous studies and field research, we summarized the current problems of the neighborhood and developed specific renovation strategies for the identified problems in terms of historical and cultural heritage, the relationship between the old and the new, and the layout of green building technologies. In addition, the green building strategy was used to optimize the microclimate environment of the neighborhood, and the wind and heat environment simulation was conducted to evaluate the modeling of the renovated neighborhood. The results show that the outdoor wind environment is better in winter than in summer, and the natural ventilation environment of the neighborhood could be optimized by optimizing the building layout to form an alleyway wind. The indoor wind–heat environment simulation was carried out with the Green Pottery Experience Hall as an example, and the indoor and outdoor air circulation and ventilation were good, and the comfort of the human thermal environment was high. This paper explores the updating strategy of the historic district in the transition zone between old and new and the wind–heat environment simulation and evaluation of green building renovation, which provides a new perspective for the related renovation research and the optimization strategy of the microclimate environment in the district.
The Synthesis and Characterization of CdS Nanostructures Using a SiO2/Si Ion-Track Template
Authors: Akylbekova Aiman , Mantiyeva Kyzdarkhan , Dauletbekova Alma , Akilbekov Abdirash , Baimukhanov Zein , Vlasukova Liudmila , Aralbayeva Gulnara , Abdrakhmetova Ainash , Bazarbek Assyl-Dastan , Abdihalikova Fariza
Published: December 2024

In the present work, we present the process of preparing CdS nanostructures based on templating synthesis using chemical deposition (CD) on a SiO2/Si substrate. A 0.7 μm thick silicon dioxide film was thermally prepared on the surface of an n-type conduction Si wafer, followed by the creation of latent ion tracks on the film by irradiating them with swift heavy Xe ions with an energy of 231 MeV and a fluence of 108 cm−2. As a result of etching in hydrofluoric acid solution (4%), pores in the form of truncated cones with different diameters were formed. The filling of the nanopores with cadmium sulfide was carried out via templated synthesis using CD methods on a SiO2 nanopores/Si substrate for 20–40 min. After CdS synthesis, the surfaces of nanoporous SiO2 nanopores/Si were examined using a scanning electron microscope to determine the pore sizes and the degree of pore filling. The crystal structure of the filled silica nanopores was investigated using X-ray diffraction, which showed CdS nanocrystals with an orthorhombic structure with symmetry group 59 Pmmn observed at 2θ angles of 61. 48° and 69.25°. Photoluminescence spectra were recorded at room temperature in the spectral range of 300–800 nm at an excitation wavelength of 240 nm, where emission bands centered around 2.53 eV, 2.45 eV, and 2.37 eV were detected. The study of the CVCs showed that, with increasing forward bias voltage, there was a significant increase in the forward current in the samples with a high degree of occupancy of CdS nanoparticles, which showed the one-way electronic conductivity of CdS/SiO2/Si nanostructures. For the first time, CdS nanostructures with orthorhombic crystal structure were obtained using track templating synthesis, and the density of electronic states was modeled using quantum–chemical calculations. Comparative analysis of experimental and calculated data of nanostructure parameters showed good agreement and are confirmed by the results of other authors.
Development of Model Representations of Materials with Ordered Distribution of Vacancies
Authors: Muratova Ekaterina N. , Moshnikov Vyacheslav A. , Zhilenkov Anton A.
Published: December 2024

This paper presents an overview of research results on the physical and technological features of crystal formation with an ordered distribution of vacancies. It is noted that the composition and properties of complex chalcogenide phases are not always described by the traditional concepts behind Kroeger’s theory. Model concepts are considered in which the carriers of properties in the crystalline state are not molecules, but an elementary crystalline element with a given arrangement of nodes with atoms and vacancies. It is established that the introduction of the term “quasi-element atom” of the zero group for a vacancy allows us to predict a number of compounds with an ordered distribution of vacancies. Examples of the analysis of peritectic multicomponent compounds and solid solutions based on them are given. Quasi-crystalline concepts are applicable to perovskite materials used in solar cells. It is shown that the photoluminescence of perovskite lead-cesium halides is determined by crystalline structural subunits i.e., the anionic octets. This is the reason for the improvement in the luminescent properties of colloidal quantum CsPbBr3 dots under radiation exposure conditions.
Community Structural and Functional Features of Benthic Macroinvertebrates in a Cascade-Dams River
Authors: Zhang Mengyue , Shang Guangxia , Ding Sen
Published: December 2024

Dam construction disrupts river continuity, and alters hydrological dynamics and the distributional composition of aquatic organisms. Understanding the spatial distribution of aquatic communities following dam construction is crucial for the effective management and restoration of riverine ecosystems. This study focused on the macroinvertebrate community of the Hanjiang River during the low-flow period, and explored the relationship between water quality indices and bioindicators. The results revealed significant changes in both the composition and functional feeding groups (FFGs) of macroinvertebrate communities from the upper to the lower reaches of the river. Compared to the natural reach, the dam-affected reaches showed a decrease in the number of sensitive taxa of Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera, and Trichoptera (EPT), and an increase in the number of moderate tolerant taxa of Gastropoda and tolerant taxa of Oligochaeta. The collector-gatherers (CGs) dominated in the Hanjiang River. In the dam-affected reaches, the relative abundance of collector-filterers (CFs) and shredders (SHs) appeared to decrease, while that of scrapers (SCs) and CGs increased. Principal component analysis (PCA) revealed that latitude and dissolved oxygen (DO) played a crucial role in the spatial pattern of macroinvertebrates, and the biotic index (BI) and family biotic index (FBI) more accurately reflected the level of organic pollution in the Hanjiang River. The findings of this study are valuable for ecological management and biodiversity conservation following dam construction.
Characterising Student Teachers’ Noticing Habits in Technology-Enhanced Dialogic Reflection
Authors: Li Yanna
Published: December 2024

This research responds to the increasing call to hone Student Teachers’ (ST) skill of selective attention or professional noticing as an essential early step toward developing noticing in the classroom environment. Furthering the line of research on teacher noticing via videos, this study aims to identify the distinguishing features of STs’ noticing in a Corpus Linguistics approach and enhance our understanding of STs’ habitual ways of thinking, doing, and feeling in using videos to reflect collaboratively. Participants were 40 final-year STs majoring in English Language Education and five tutors from the same university. During their 8 weeks of professional practicum, STs recorded their classes and reflected on their practice using the Self-Evaluation of Teacher Talk through Video Enhanced Observation (SETTVEO) tag set and as part of online professional learning communities. A 200,000-word Corpus of Dialogic Reflection (CoDR) was constructed and analysed using the #LancsBox 6.0 tool. Findings highlight novice teachers’ unconsciousness or problematisation of their personal agency, haste in proposing alternative practices, and cognitive or emotional dissonance when they analyse their own videos in group settings. This study has implications for the guidance needed in technology-enhanced dialogic reflection. It suggests how teacher educators could tailor their support to the reflective and professional needs of novice teachers for a more productive, transformative reflection and teacher-learning experience.
Joint Optimization of Renewable Energy Utilization and Multi-Energy Sharing for Interconnected Microgrids with Carbon Trading
Authors: Rong Jieqi , Liu Weirong , Tang Nvzhi , Jiang Fu , Zhang Rui , Li Heng
Published: December 2024

Connecting microgrids can promote the sharing of multi-energy sources, reduce carbon emissions, and enhance the consumption of renewable energy. However, the uncertainty of renewable energy and the coupling of multiple energy sources makes energy management difficult in connected microgrids. To address the challenges, a dual-layer energy management framework for interconnected microgrids is proposed in this paper. In the bottom layer, a load scheduling problem within one microgrid is formulated to maximize the utilization of renewable energy, which is solved by an improved gray wolf algorithm with fast convergence and effective optimum seeking. In the upper layer, a distributed energy dispatch strategy is proposed to coordinate the energy sources for multiple microgrids to achieve multi-energy sharing with carbon trading. Combining the load scheduling and energy dispatching, the overall energy utilization is improved, and the operation cost and carbon emission are reduced. The simulation results on real-world datasets validate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Impact of Histogram Equalization on the Classification of Retina Lesions from OCT B-Scans
Authors: Marciniak Tomasz , Stankiewicz Agnieszka
Published: December 2024

Deep learning solutions can be used to classify pathological changes of the human retina visualized in OCT images. Available datasets that can be used to train neural network models include OCT images (B-scans) of classes with selected pathological changes and images of the healthy retina. These images often require correction due to improper acquisition or intensity variations related to the type of OCT device. This article provides a detailed assessment of the impact of preprocessing on classification efficiency. The histograms of OCT images were examined and, depending on the histogram distribution, incorrect image fragments were removed. At the same time, the impact of histogram equalization using the standard method and the Contrast-Limited Adaptive Histogram Equalization (CLAHE) method was analyzed. The most extensive dataset of Labeled Optical Coherence Tomography (LOCT) images was used for the experimental studies. The impact of changes was assessed for different neural network architectures and various learning parameters, assuming classes of equal size. Comprehensive studies have shown that removing unnecessary white parts from the input image combined with CLAHE improves classification accuracy up to as much as 4.75% depending on the used network architecture and optimizer type.
Research on the Collaborative Operation of Diversified Energy Storage and Park Clusters: A Method Combining Data Generation and a Distributionally Robust Chance-Constrained Operational Model
Authors: Siqin Zhuoya , Qiao Tiantong , Diao Ruisheng , Wang Xuejie , Xu Guangjun
Published: December 2024

Energy storage is crucial for enhancing the economic efficiency of integrated energy systems. This paper addresses the need for flexible resources due to high renewable energy integration and the complexity of managing multiple resources. We propose a decentralized collaborative multi-stage distributionally robust scheduling method for electric-thermal systems, incorporating energy storage to mitigate renewable energy fluctuations. Firstly, we model the electric-thermal system with multiple flexible resources. Uncertain parameters of renewables are estimated using conditional generative adversarial networks (CGANs), assuming empirical probability distributions. Secondly, given the distinct operators of electric and thermal systems and information barriers, we develop a data-driven distributionally robust chance-constrained optimization model (DRCCO). This model ensures decentralized collaboration without compromising information security or fairness. Then, we introduce an Alternating Direction Method of Multipliers (ADMM) algorithm with parallel regularization to decouple the model. This approach facilitates rapid solution finding with minimal information exchange. Finally, numerical examples confirm the model’s effectiveness in enhancing system flexibility and ensuring wind power consumption.
FPGA-Based High-Performance Network Impairment Emulator
Authors: Duan Dexuan , Wang Xinshuo , Li Lin , Liu Lei
Published: December 2024

With the rapid growth of Wide Area Networks (WANs) and advancements in 5G, cloud computing, and IoT, networks face higher demands for low cost, high capacity, reliability, and security. To ensure these requirements, network impairment emulators have become essential tools for testing and optimizing network performance under various conditions. This paper presents an FPGA-based Network Impairment Emulator (FNIE) that accurately emulates packet loss, reordering, and delay with high throughput and low cost. FNIE can achieve up to 100 Gbps throughput, with a configurable packet loss rate ranging from 0.001% to 100%, with a resolution as fine as 0.001%. It also supports up to 64 descriptor queues for reordering, a maximum reordering extent of 511, and emulates delays from 1 µs to 1 s.
The Effect of AI on Animation Production Efficiency: An Empirical Investigation Through the Network Data Envelopment Analysis
Authors: Chen Yihui , Wang Yuming , Yu Tao , Pan Younghwan
Published: December 2024

This study explores the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the efficiency of 3D animation production through Network Data Envelopment Analysis (NDEA). While AI’s adoption in content creation is on the rise, its actual effect on different production stages remains unclear. This research examines ten animation projects from commercial, educational, and entertainment sectors, focusing on four key stages: pre-production, asset creation, animation production, and post-production. The findings indicate that AI’s influence varies significantly across these stages, with post-production demonstrating consistently high efficiency (mean: 0.91275). AI integration proved most effective in standardized processes rather than in creative tasks, with commercial projects achieving the highest efficiency scores. This study highlights that successful AI adoption relies on strategic integration and organizational capability rather than on mere technological implementation. Optimal efficiency gains were observed with AI usage between 30 and 70%. These insights suggest that organizations should focus on phased AI implementation, starting with standardized processes to maximize efficiency. This research contributes to both the theoretical understanding and practical application of AI in creative production, offering empirical guidance for optimizing AI integration in animation workflows.
Research on Aging Design of Passenger Car Center Control Interface Based on Kano/AHP/QFD Models
Authors: Liu Wei , Li Yanyu , Cai Jindan
Published: December 2024

As the aging population increases, elderly drivers face challenges due to physical and cognitive decline, in addition to the growing complexity of in-car technology and interaction features. This study aims to optimize the in-car control interface for elderly drivers. Using surveys, the KANO model, Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), and Quality Function Deployment (QFD), we first identify the core needs of elderly drivers. Based on these findings, we propose four key design principles: (1) Streamline functional tasks and simplify interaction logic; (2) Reasonable page layout and functional modularization; (3) Color matching for the elderly, creating a comfortable emotional experience; and (4) Choose familiar icons with less cognitive burden. The design was implemented based on these principles, followed by usability testing to validate the results. The findings show that the optimized interface improves the usability, ease of operation, and overall satisfaction of elderly drivers, enhancing both safety and the driving experience. This research provides a theoretical foundation and practical framework for age-friendly design, offering valuable insights for related fields.