bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mu Rhythm Desynchronization while Observing Rubber Hand Movement in the Mirror: The Interaction of Body Representation with Visuo-Tactile Stimulation
Authors: Shibuya Satoshi , Ohki Yukari
Published: June 2023

During rubber hand illusion (RHI), participants feel that a rubber (fake) hand is their own (i.e., embodiment of the rubber hand) if the unseen real hand and seen rubber hand are stroked synchronously (i.e., visuo-tactile stimuli). The RHI is also evoked if the real and rubber hands are placed in the same position (i.e., visual-proprioceptive congruency), which can be performed using a mirror setting. Using electroencephalography (EEG) and mirror settings, we compared μ rhythm (8–13 Hz) event-related desynchronization (ERD; an index of sensorimotor activation) while watching the movements of embodied or non-embodied rubber hands, which was preceded by an observation of the rubber hand with or without synchronous visuo-tactile stimuli. The illusory ownership of the fake hand was manipulated using visual continuity with (RHI) and without (non-RHI) a fake forearm. Resultantly, an ownership-dependent μ rhythm ERD was found when delivering visuo-tactile stimuli; a greater and more persistent μ rhythm ERD during the rubber hand movement was identified in the RHI in comparison to the non-RHI condition. However, no difference was observed between the two when observing the fake hand alone. These findings suggest the possibility that a self-related multisensory interaction between body representation (top-down processing) and visuo-tactile inputs (bottom-up processing) before a fake hand movement produces ownership-dependent sensorimotor activations during subsequent movement observations.
Exploring the Potential Role of ADAM 17 and ADAM 22 in the Etiology of Autism Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Al-Mazidi Sarah H. , El-Ansary Afaf , Abualnaja Amani , AlZarroug Abdullah , Alharbi Turki , Al-Ayadhi Laila Y.
Published: June 2023

Background: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) encompasses a group of disorders characterized by difficulties with social interaction and repetitive behavior. The condition is supposed to originate from early shifts in brain development, while the underlying processes are unknown. Moreover, a considerable number of patients with ASD experience digestive difficulties. Metalloproteases (ADAMs) are a class of enzymes capable of cleaving membrane-bound proteins. Members of this family, ADAM17 and ADAM22, have the ability to cleave proteins like the pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF-ά and glutamate synaptic molecules, which are both engaged in neuro-inflammation and glutamate excitotoxicity as crucial etiological mechanisms in ASD. ADAM17 and ADAM22 may also have a role in ASD microbiota–gut–brain axis connections by regulating immunological and inflammatory responses in the intestinal tract. Subjects and Methods: Using ELISA kits, the plasma levels of ADAM17 and ADAM22 were compared in 40 children with ASD and 40 typically developing children. All of the autistic participants’ childhood autism rating scores (CARS), social responsiveness scales (SRS), and short sensory profiles (SSP) were evaluated as indicators of ASD severity. Results: Our results showed that plasma levels of ADAM17 were significantly lower in ASD children than in control children, while ADAM22 demonstrated non-significantly lower levels. Our data also indicate that while ADAM17 correlates significantly with age, ADAM22 correlates significantly with CARS as a marker of ASD severity. Conclusions: Our interpreted data showed that alteration in ADAM17 and ADAM22 might be associated with glutamate excitotoxicity, neuroinflammation, and altered gut microbiota as etiological mechanisms of ASD and could be an indicator of the severity of the disorder.
Heat-Killed L. helveticus Enhances Positive Mood States: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study
Authors: Mutoh Natsumi , Kakiuchi Izumi , Kato Kumiko , Xu Chendong , Iwabuchi Noriyuki , Ayukawa Masayo , Kiyosawa Kyoko , Igarashi Kazumi , Tanaka Miyuki , Nakamura Masahiko , Miyasaka Mitsunaga
Published: June 2023

When mood states are impaired, daily life is severely disrupted. To maintain a specific mood state, both positive and negative moods must be controlled; however, methods to maintain a positive mood have not been fully established. Previous studies have suggested that heat-killed L. helveticus MCC1848 has the potential to improve positive moods. This study aimed to test the efficacy of heat-killed L. helveticus MCC1848 in maintaining and improving a positive mood with PANAS, a questionnaire specifically designed to assess positive and negative mood, as the primary endpoint. Healthy Japanese nursing students (n = 46) were randomized to receive heat-killed L. helveticus MCC1848 (5 billion/day) or placebo powder for four weeks. Mood state was assessed before and two and four weeks after the intervention began; ingestion of heat-killed L. helveticus MCC1848 significantly improved PANAS ‘Positive Affect’ compared to the placebo. These results indicate that heat-killed L. helveticus MCC1848 is effective in enhancing positive mood.
Neighborhood Governance and Happiness during the COVID-19 Pandemic: An Empirical Analysis of Wuhan’s Lockdown
Authors: Cheng Hanbei , Jiang Anli
Published: June 2023

The outbreak of COVID-19 posed a challenge to global governance, residents’ happiness, and economic systems around the world. Since the crux of previous research centers on the reactions of both local and national governments, studies on how governance arrangement at the neighborhood level influences people’s happiness during the crisis response remain insufficient. This paper aims to explore the relationship between neighborhood governance and residents’ happiness based on first-hand data collected during Wuhan’s first lockdown. This study highlights the significance of neighborhood governance in crisis response, which includes providing diverse public services, ensuring access to life’s necessities, and offering prompt medical treatment. All of these factors are essential for maintaining overall satisfaction with governance and contributing to the happiness of individuals within the community. However, active governance actions do not always lead to favorable results. For example, increased group participation may lead to social conflicts among those involved, ultimately diminishing one’s happiness. Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic has acted as a risk ‘amplifier’, exposing and exacerbating pre-existing hukou-based social inequalities in the governance process. The impact of the pandemic on citizen happiness is the cumulative effect of both the immediate social crisis brought on by the pandemic and long-standing structural inequalities. To improve people’s happiness and establish inclusive policies, this paper advocates for a ‘people-centered’ urban governance that enhances public satisfaction and addresses the needs and priorities of migrant populations.
Are You Dominated by Your Affects? How and When Do Employees’ Daily Affective States Impact Learning from Project Failure?
Authors: Wang Wenzhou , Li Longdi , Song Shanghao , Jiang Wendi
Published: June 2023

Given the enormous value that project failure brings to individuals and organizations, a large number of scholars have explored the antecedents that affect employees’ learning from project failure. However, few scholars have paid attention to how individuals’ affective states interact with cognition patterns to learn from failure. Based on cognitive behavioral theory, this paper explores the relationship between employees’ different daily affective states and learning from project failure and incorporates the mediating role of error management strategy and the moderating role of project commitment. By using SPSS and Amos software, hierarchical regression analysis of questionnaire data collected from 774 employees in high-tech firms in China indicates that (1) positive/negative affective states positively/negatively affect learning from failure, respectively; (2) error management strategy mediates the relationship between daily affective states and learning from project failure; and (3) project commitment moderates the relationship between negative affective states and error management strategy; specifically, this relationship is weaker when project commitment is stronger. However, the moderating effect of project commitment on the relationship between positive affective states and error management strategy is not supported. The results further expand the research related to learning from failure and have practical implications for failure management in high-tech enterprises.
A Study on the Aesthetic Preference of Bamboo Weaving Patterns Based on Eye Movement Experiments
Authors: Wu Chunjin , Min Yuchen , Fei Benhua , Song Shasha
Published: June 2023

Bamboo weaving is an intangible cultural heritage in China. Exploring people’s aesthetic preferences for bamboo weaving patterns to better serve the design of bamboo architectural decoration can help promote the upgrading of traditional crafts. This study explored the differences between genders in the oculomotor indicators in different bamboo weaving patterns through an eye-movement experimental study combined with a subjective questionnaire to explore whether different genders have aesthetic preferences for people’s pictures of bamboo weaving patterns. The results showed that both males and females preferred less visually striking and softer corrugated patterns, with males paying more attention to the more ‘angular’ hexagonal and triangular patterns, while females were more interested in the more regular and uniform brickwork and diagonal patterns.
Factors Influencing Stakeholders’ Decision to Invest in Residential Properties: A Perceptual Analysis of Flood-Risk Areas
Authors: Oyetunji Abiodun Kolawole , Amaechi Chiemela Victor , Dike Emmanuel Chigozie , Ayoola Adeyosoye Babatunde , Olukolajo Michael Ayodele
Published: June 2023

The ground can become saturated during prolonged downpours. If sewers and drains are unable to cope, overflows will be inevitable. This situation could affect properties that are not designed to cope with flood hazards. It is pertinent that property investors should consider flooding and the likelihood of its occurrence when making investment decisions. The question is, “do they?” This study investigates the factors that influence residential property investment decisions in flood-risk areas of the Lagos metropolis. This is achieved by evaluating a range of locational, neighbourhood, structural, market/economic, behavioural, and risk characteristics in the determination of residential property investment choices in areas that are susceptible to flood risk. The data were sourced from private investors and registered real estate agents in the risk areas of Lagos State, Nigeria. Structured questionnaires were used for data collection purposes, and only valid responses were used for the data analysis. The results show that the availability of infrastructural supply, the crime rate in the neighbourhood, and the property location could significantly motivate investors’ decisions with respect to property investment in flood-risk areas. The perception plot shows that behavioural factors have the highest bearing on the investment decisions for private investors, at 4.4, followed by economic factors at 4.0 and locational factors at 3.6. The plot also shows that neighbourhood factors have the highest bearing on the investment decisions for estate agents, at 4.6, followed by economic factors at 4.0 and locational factors at 3.6. This implies that there are various degrees of correlation between the factors examined in this study. It is important to highlight the relevance of the findings for the field and pave the way for future scientific development in flood-risk management.
Experimental Simulation of Deformation Effect Propagation Due to Explosion on the Surface of a Small-Scale Model
Authors: Papán Daniel , Brozová Emma , Papánová Zuzana
Published: June 2023

The use of small-scale models is an important area of research today. An investigation is conducted on the response of a small-scale model’s vibrating surface. For this model, a small-scale surface explosion is used for loading. According to the article, the methodology includes procedures, model development, the explosive materials used, measurement and evaluation methods, software, and the technique used. Signal processing and response evaluation rely on a scientific method—the backward Fourier-transform principle—for frequency filtering. In this study, the simulation results are used to confirm the basic physical properties of the viscoelastic system. It is primarily investigated whether wave processes are confirmed on the new material. In terms of single wave propagation, the results summarize the characteristics of these waves (attenuation, velocity of propagation, etc.). Conclusions are targeted at the possibility of correlating three types of results: small-scale simulations, numerical simulations, and a real full-scale experiment.
Serum Metabolite Biomarkers for Pancreatic Tumors: Neuroendocrine and Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinomas—A Preliminary Study
Authors: Skubisz Karolina , Dąbkowski Krzysztof , Samborowska Emilia , Starzyńska Teresa , Deskur Anna , Ambrozkiewicz Filip , Karczmarski Jakub , Radkiewicz Mariusz , Kusnierz Katarzyna , Kos-Kudła Beata , Sulikowski Tadeusz , Cybula Patrycja , Paziewska Agnieszka
Published: June 2023

Background: Pancreatic cancer is the most common pancreatic solid malignancy with an aggressive clinical course and low survival rate. There are a limited number of reliable prognostic biomarkers and a need to understand the pathogenesis of pancreatic tumors; neuroendocrine (PNET) and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas (PDAC) encouraged us to analyze the serum metabolome of pancreatic tumors and disturbances in the metabolism of PDAC and PNET. Methods: Using the AbsoluteIDQ® p180 kit (Biocrates Life Sciences AG, Innsbruck, Austria) with liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS), we identified changes in metabolite profiles and disrupted metabolic pathways serum of NET and PDAC patients. Results: The concentration of six metabolites showed statistically significant differences between the control group and PDAC patients (p.adj < 0.05). Glutamine (Gln), acetylcarnitine (C2), and citrulline (Cit) presented a lower concentration in the serum of PDAC patients, while phosphatidylcholine aa C32:0 (PC aa C32:0), sphingomyelin C26:1 (SM C26:1), and glutamic acid (Glu) achieved higher concentrations compared to serum samples from healthy individuals. Five of the tested metabolites: C2 (FC = 8.67), and serotonin (FC = 2.68) reached higher concentration values in the PNET serum samples compared to PDAC, while phosphatidylcholine aa C34:1 (PC aa C34:1) (FC = −1.46 (0.68)) had a higher concentration in the PDAC samples. The area under the curves (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves presented diagnostic power to discriminate pancreatic tumor patients, which were highest for acylcarnitines: C2 with AUC = 0.93, serotonin with AUC = 0.85, and PC aa C34:1 with AUC = 0.86. Conclusions: The observations presented provide better insight into the metabolism of pancreatic tumors, and improve the diagnosis and classification of tumors. Serum-circulating metabolites can be easily monitored without invasive procedures and show the present clinical patients’ condition, helping with pharmacological treatment or dietary strategies.
A Clinical Risk Model for Personalized Screening and Prevention of Breast Cancer
Authors: Eriksson Mikael , Czene Kamila , Vachon Celine , Conant Emily F. , Hall Per
Published: June 2023

Background: Image-derived artificial intelligence (AI) risk models have shown promise in identifying high-risk women in the short term. The long-term performance of image-derived risk models expanded with clinical factors has not been investigated. Methods: We performed a case–cohort study of 8110 women aged 40–74 randomly selected from a Swedish mammography screening cohort initiated in 2010 together with 1661 incident BCs diagnosed before January 2022. The imaging-only AI risk model extracted mammographic features and age at screening. Additional lifestyle/familial risk factors were incorporated into the lifestyle/familial-expanded AI model. Absolute risks were calculated using the two models and the clinical Tyrer–Cuzick v8 model. Age-adjusted model performances were compared across the 10-year follow-up. Results: The AUCs of the lifestyle/familial-expanded AI risk model ranged from 0.75 (95%CI: 0.70–0.80) to 0.68 (95%CI: 0.66–0.69) 1–10 years after study entry. Corresponding AUCs were 0.72 (95%CI: 0.66–0.78) to 0.65 (95%CI: 0.63–0.66) for the imaging-only model and 0.62 (95%CI: 0.55–0.68) to 0.60 (95%CI: 0.58–0.61) for Tyrer–Cuzick v8. The increased performances were observed in multiple risk subgroups and cancer subtypes. Among the 5% of women at highest risk, the PPV was 5.8% using the lifestyle/familial-expanded model compared with 5.3% using the imaging-only model, p < 0.01, and 4.6% for Tyrer–Cuzick, p < 0.01. Conclusions: The lifestyle/familial-expanded AI risk model showed higher performance for both long-term and short-term risk assessment compared with imaging-only and Tyrer–Cuzick models.
Genomic Mapping of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor and Mesenchymal–Epithelial Transition-Up-Regulated Tumors Identifies Novel Therapeutic Opportunities
Authors: Paniagua-Herranz Lucía , Doger Bernard , Díaz-Tejeiro Cristina , Sanvicente Adrián , Nieto-Jiménez Cristina , Moreno Víctor , Pérez Segura Pedro , Gyorffy Balazs , Calvo Emiliano , Ocana Alberto
Published: June 2023

Background: The identification of proteins in the cellular membrane of the tumoral cell is a key to the design of therapeutic agents. Recently, the bi-specific antibody amivantamab, targeting the oncogenic membrane proteins EGFR and MET, received regulatory approval for the treatment of adult patients with locally advanced or metastatic NSCLC. Methods: The authors interrogated several publicly available genomic datasets to evaluate the expression of both receptors and PD-L1 in most of the solid and hematologic malignancies and focused on prostate adenocarcinoma (PRAD) and pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD). Results: In PAAD, EGFR highly correlated with PD-L1 and MET, and MET showed a moderate correlation with PD-L1, while in PRAD, EGFR, MET and PD-L1 showed a strong correlation. In addition, in tumors treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors, including anti-PD(L)1 and anti-CTLA4, a high expression of EGFR and MET predicted detrimental survival. When exploring the relationship of immune populations with these receptors, the authors observed that in PAAD and PRAD, EGFR moderately correlated with CD8+ T cells. Furthermore, EGFR and MET correlated with neutrophils in PRAD. Conclusions: The authors identified tumor types where EGFR and MET were highly expressed and correlated with a high expression of PD-L1, opening the door for the future combination of bi-specific EGFR/MET antibodies with anti-PD(L)1 inhibitors.
Photocatalytic Removal of Water Emerging Pollutants in an Optimized Packed Bed Photoreactor Using Solar Light
Authors: Borges M. E. , de Paz Carmona H. , Gutiérrez M. , Esparza P.
Published: June 2023

Photocatalysis is an advanced oxidation process that is an environmentally friendly option and one of the most critical technologies in green chemistry today. This work studied the upscaling of photocatalysis as a suitable process for wastewater treatment to remove emerging pollutants. For this purpose, unsupported and supported TiO2 photocatalysts were tested in the photodegradation of ciprofloxacin as a model molecule of an emerging wastewater component, using visible, UV radiation, and solar light. The suitability of TiO2 as a photocatalyst to decompose ciprofloxacin was confirmed in batch photoreactor under Visible and UV radiation, with degradation rates up to 90% after 30 min of irradiation and low adsorption values. TiO2 as a photocatalyst coated in glass support material at the packed bed photoreactor showed good photoactivity for emergent contaminants degradation (95%) under solar radiation. It has been possible to verify that the photocatalytic reactor system constitutes a viable process for eliminating emerging contaminants through environmentally sustainable treatments. Our results corroborate the possibility of degrading emerging contaminants by solar radiation using a packed bed photoreactor, providing a more effective option from a practical and economical point of view for wastewater effluent treatments.
Oleic Acid Status Positively Correlates with the Soluble Receptor for Advanced Glycation End-Products (sRAGE) in Healthy Adults Who Are Homozygous for G Allele of RAGE G82S Polymorphism
Authors: Deo Permal , Dhillon Varinderpal S. , Thomas Philip , Fenech Michael
Published: June 2023

Background: The soluble form of receptor for advanced glycation end products (sRAGE) have been implicated in the prevention of numerous pathologic states, and highlights as an attractive therapeutic target. Because diets rich in monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) reduce postprandial oxidative stress and inflammation that is related to better health during aging, we investigated the association between red blood cell (RBC) fatty acids with circulatory AGE biomarkers and further stratified this correlation based on GG and GA + AA genotype. Methods: A total of 172 healthy participants (median age = 53.74 ± 0.61 years) were recruited for the study. RBC fatty acid was analysed using gas chromatography and sRAGE was measured using a commercial ELISA kit. Results: The result showed a non-significant correlation between total MUFA with sRAGE however oleic acid (C18:1) exhibited a positive correlation (r = 0.178, p = 0.01) that remained statistically significant (β = 0.178, p = 0.02) after a stepwise multivariate regression analysis after adjusting for age, BMI and gender. In a univariate analysis, a positive significant correlation between C18:1 and sRAGE in GG genotype (r = 0.169, p = 0.02) and a non-significant correlation with GA + AA genotype (r = 0.192, p = 0.21) was evident. When C18:1 was stratified, a significant difference was observed for oleic acid and G82S polymorphism: low C18:1/GA + AA versus high C18:1/GG (p = 0.015) and high C18:1/GA + AA versus high C18:1/GG (p = 0.02). Conclusion: Our study suggests that increased levels of C18:1 may be a potential therapeutic approach in increasing sRAGE in those with GG genotype and play a role in modulating AGE metabolism.
Increased Prevalence of Alpha-1-Antitrypsin Deficiency in Patients with Biliary Tract Cancer and Its Associated Clinicopathological Features
Authors: Cornillet Martin , Zemack Helen , Jansson Hannes , Sparrelid Ernesto , Ellis Ewa , Björkström Niklas K.
Published: June 2023

Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (A1ATD) is underdiagnosed and associated with liver diseases. Here, we genotyped 130 patients with biliary tract cancer (BTC) scheduled for liver resection and found A1ATD in 10.8% of the patients. A1ATD was found in all BTC subtypes, and patients had similar clinical features as non-A1ATD BTC, not permitting their identification using clinical routine liver tests. In intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA), the abundance of A1AT protein was increased in the tumor and appeared to be influenced by the genomic alterations. On the one hand, BTC with A1ATD had lower perineural invasion at histopathology and displayed a longer survival, suggesting that a deficiency in this protein is associated with a less aggressive phenotype. On the other hand, iCCA with high A1AT expression had more advanced tumor staging and enriched pathways for complement system and extracellular matrix interactions, indicating that A1AT protein might contribute to a more aggressive phenotype. With increased awareness, screening, and basic studies, A1ATD could represent one more layer of stratification for future targeted therapies in BTC.
Discrimination of Diabetes Mellitus Patients and Healthy Individuals Based on Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): Analysis of Exhaled Breath and Urine Samples by Using E-Nose and VE-Tongue
Authors: Zaim Omar , Bouchikhi Benachir , Motia Soukaina , Abelló Sònia , Llobet Eduard , El Bari Nezha
Published: June 2023

Studies suggest that breath and urine analysis can be viable non-invasive methods for diabetes management, with the potential for disease diagnosis. In the present work, we employed two sensing strategies. The first strategy involved analyzing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in biological matrices, such as exhaled breath and urine samples collected from patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) and healthy controls (HC). The second strategy focused on discriminating between two types of DM, related to type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), by using a data fusion method. For this purpose, an electronic nose (e-nose) based on five tin oxide (SnO2) gas sensors was employed to characterize the overall composition of the collected breath samples. Furthermore, a voltametric electronic tongue (VE-tongue), composed of five working electrodes, was dedicated to the analysis of urinary VOCs using cyclic voltammetry as a measurement technique. To evaluate the diagnostic performance of the electronic sensing systems, algorithm tools including principal component analysis (PCA), discriminant function analysis (DFA) and receiver operating characteristics (ROC) were utilized. The results showed that the e-nose and VE-tongue could discriminate between breath and urine samples from patients with DM and HC with a success rate of 99.44% and 99.16%, respectively. However, discrimination between T1DM and T2DM samples using these systems alone was not perfect. Therefore, a data fusion method was proposed as a goal to overcome this shortcoming. The fusing of data from the two instruments resulted in an enhanced success rate of classification (i.e., 93.75% for the recognition of T1DM and T2DM).
Experiences of Healthcare Providers Who Provide Emergency Care to Migrant Children Who Arriving in Spain by Small Boats (Patera): A Qualitative Study
Authors: Jiménez-Lasserrotte María del Mar , Artés-Navarro Rosalía , Granero-Molina José , Fernández-Medina Isabel María , Ruiz-Fernández María Dolores , Ventura-Miranda María Isabel
Published: June 2023

Background: The phenomenon of migration from regions with more limited resources is a reality of the globalized world. It is estimated that at the end of 2019, almost 80 million migrants were displaced around the world, with 46% of them being children. Almost 20% of the irregular immigrants who arrived in Spain were child irregular migrants, who travelled alone or accompanied by family members after leaving their countries of origin seeking, to find a better future. Child irregular migrants have specific healthcare needs. The objectives of our present study were to describe and understand the experiences of healthcare providers in relation to the healthcare needs and the process of emergency care for child irregular migrants who come to Spain in small vessels. Methods: In this descriptive qualitative study, two focus groups were convened, and in-depth interviews with 21 participants were conducted, followed by inductive data analysis using ATLAS.ti 9.3 software. Results: Three main themes emerged from the analysis: (1) more vulnerable groups for whom the priority is emergency care; (2) the health and social care of child migrants; and (3) challenges and advances in the care of child migrants. Conclusions: For healthcare providers, protecting children, placing value on the family unit, and ensuring that children feel safe at all times are very important. Learning about the experiences of healthcare providers can contribute towards improving the health and social care of children in emergency care.
Study on Dyeing Properties and Color Characteristics of Wool Fabrics Dyed with Geranium caespitosum L. Extract—A New Natural Yellow Dye
Authors: Zhao Zhijun , Yan Chunxiao , Xu Fei , Liu Jianhong
Published: June 2023

Natural dyes play an important role in sustainable dyeing processes. However, natural yellow dyes with good performance are rare. Traditional natural yellow dyes have issues, such as a narrow color range and poor light fastness. In this paper, a new natural yellow dye was extracted from a low-cost herb Geranium caespitosum L. (G. caespitosum). In addition, the dye composition was analyzed using UV-visible spectroscopy. The dyeing process of G. caespitosum dye on wool fabrics was optimized using single-factor experiments. Standard fastness tests were conducted to evaluate the sunlight, washing, and rubbing fastness of the dyed fabrics. The color characteristics and color gamut range of the dyed fabrics were evaluated. The obtained colors were compared and assessed with Pantone Matching Systems and Chinese traditional colors. The results showed that phenolic acids and flavonoids were present in the G. caespitosum dye solution as yellow dye compounds. The best dyeing process for wool fabrics was meta-mordanting. The dyed fabrics were bright yellow at 60 °C and golden yellow at 90 °C. All the obtained colors were in the yellow-red range. According to the ISO color fastness standards, wool fabrics dyed with G. caespitosum dye had good color fastness ratings, particularly sunlight fastness. Therefore, G. caespitosum dye is a promising natural yellow dye that can be used for wool fabric dyeing. It has advantages over other known natural yellow dyes and has certain application value.
Preparation of Nitrogen-Doped ZnFe2O4-Modified Carbon Composite and Its Collaborative Energy Storage Mechanism
Authors: Wang Li , Li Baobao , Bai Hongyu , Ding Hong , Xu Na , Yin Chaofan , Xiong Jingjing , Yang Zhiwei , Rao Xianfa , Dong Binbin
Published: June 2023

The pyrolytic carbon of polymer adsorbent resin (SAP) is used as a waste carbon source, which can be used as a porous carbon network via pyrolysis to remove surface sodium carbonate and other substances. In this paper, a ZnFe2O4/nitrogen-doped porous carbon composite was prepared using the template method. Through the high-temperature carbonization of a polymer and crystallization of inorganic elements, the morphology of the composite showed uniform load characteristics. This well-defined structure and morphology facilitate the transport of Li+, enhance the effective contact area with the electrolyte, and provide a wealth of active sites. For the SAP-Fe/Zn anode, at a high current density of 0.1 A g−1, the reversible capacity of the anode reached 753 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles, showing excellent magnification performance. The final modified SAP-Fe/Zn&NC electrode had a reversible capacity of 205.6 mAh g−1 after 1000 cycles at the high current density of 2 A g−1, and the cycle retention rate was as high as 80.7%. The enhanced electrochemical performance can be attributed to the abundant active sites and shortened diffusion pathway of the composite. This ensures adequate conversion reactions during the Li-litization process between Zn, Fe, and Li+, alleviates volume expansion, and prevents comminution/aggregation during long cycles at high current densities.
Advanced Electrochemical Degradation of Organic Pollutants from Water using Sb-Doped SnO2/Ti Anode and Assisted by Granular Activated Carbon
Authors: Baciu Anamaria , Orha Corina , Nicolae Radu , Nicolaescu Mircea , Ilies Sorina , Manea Florica
Published: June 2023

In this paper, mesoporous electrodes consisting of Sb-doped SnO2 deposited onto Ti plates that had undergone controlled corrosion under acidic medium were synthesized via a spin-coating method and morpho-structurally characterized via X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The electrodes were electrochemically tested to examine their degradation/mineralization through electrooxidation (EO) of doxorubicin (DOX) as a single component and multi-component, together with capecitabine (CCB) from the cytostatic class and humic acid (HA) from the natural organic matter (NOM) class in the absence/the presence of activated carbon (AC) as a particulate electrode. The best mineralization efficiency of 67% was achieved for DOX mineralization using Sb-doped SnO2 deposited onto a Ti plate that had undergone controlled corrosion with oxalic acid during the electrooxidation process. The presence of AC within the electrolysis process generated a synergistic effect of 52.75% for total organic carbon (TOC) parameter removal, which is in accordance with and significantly better than the results reported in the literature. The aspects related to the complex mechanism of DOX degradation and mineralization are discussed. The superiority of AC assisted electrooxidation, as electrochemical filtering (EF), was proved, considering simultaneous degradation and mineralization of mixture of doxorubicin, capecitabine and humic acid.
Photoconductive Response to Pulsed UV Light of CsPbCl3 Flexible Thin Films Grown by Magnetron Sputtering
Authors: Bruzzi Mara , Falsini Naomi , Calisi Nicola , Scardi Paolo , Vinattieri Anna
Published: June 2023

CsPbCl3 perovskite is attracting increasing interest in ultraviolet (UV) detection due to its optical band gap and superior intrinsic optoelectronic properties. In this study, a novel one-step magnetron sputtering technique was applied for fabricating CsPbCl3 polycrystalline films on flexible plastic substrates with interdigitated contacts. The photoconductive response of 500 nm and 1 µm thick films to pulsed ultraviolet (UV) light in the 0.1–100 Hz frequency range and intensity of 10–500 W/m2 was tested at room temperature. The experimental results demonstrated the good performances of the CsPbCl3 films in terms of signal stability, fast response to transient signal, detectivity, light dynamic range, and dark current noise for the photodetection of pulsed UV light.
Research on the Development of a Proctoring System for Conducting Online Exams in Kazakhstan
Authors: Nurpeisova Ardak , Shaushenova Anargul , Mutalova Zhazira , Ongarbayeva Maral , Niyazbekova Shakizada , Bekenova Anargul , Zhumaliyeva Lyazzat , Zhumasseitova Samal
Published: June 2023

The demand for online education is gradually growing. Most universities and other institutions are faced with the fact that it is almost impossible to track how honestly test takers take exams remotely. In online formats, there are many simple opportunities that allow for cheating and using the use of outside help. Online proctoring based on artificial intelligence technologies in distance education is an effective technological solution to prevent academic dishonesty. This article explores the development and implementation of an online control proctoring system using artificial intelligence technology for conducting online exams. The article discusses the proctoring systems used in Kazakhstan, compares the functional features of the selected proctoring systems, and describes the architecture of Proctor SU. A prototype of the Proctor SU proctoring system has been developed. As a pilot program, the authors used this system during an online university exam and examined the results of the test. According to the author’s examination, students have a positive attitude towards the use of Proctor SU online proctoring. The proposed proctor system includes features of face detection, face tracking, audio capture, and the active capture of system windows. Models CNN, R-CNN, and YOLOv3 were used in the development process. The YOLOv3 model processed images in real time at 45 frames per second, and CNN and R-CNN processed images in real time at 30 and 38 frames per second. The YOLOv3 model showed better results in terms of real-time face recognition. Therefore, the YOLOv3 model was implemented into the Proctor SU proctoring system.
A Dual-Core Surface Plasmon Resonance-Based Photonic Crystal Fiber Sensor for Simultaneously Measuring the Refractive Index and Temperature
Authors: Li Wangyoyo , Chen Yu , Xu Jianjie , Jiang Menglin , Zou Hui
Published: June 2023

In this correspondence, a new photonic crystal fiber biosensor structure on the basis of surface plasmon resonance is proposed for the measurement of the refractive index (RI) and TSM temperature simultaneously. In this design, the central and external surface of the biosensor structure are coated with thin gold film. A hole adjacent to the inner gold film is filled with temperature-sensitive material (TSM). With the implementation of internal and external gold coatings along with TSM, the biosensor achieves the measurement of the RI and temperature with two disjoint wavelength coverage. Numerical simulations and calculation results illustrate that the average wavelength sensitivity of the biosensor structure, respectively, achieves 7080 nm/RIU and 3.36 nm/°C with RI coverage from 1.36 to 1.41 and temperature coverage from 0 to 60 °C. Moreover, benefiting from realization of different wavelength regions in RI and temperature sensing, it is believed that the proposed biosensor structure for the measurement of the RI and temperature will have range applications in the fields of medical diagnostics and environmental assessments.
Temperature Induced Monoclinic to Orthorhombic Phase Transition in Protonated ZSM-5 Zeolites with Different Si/Al Ratios: An In-Situ Synchrotron X-ray Powder Diffraction Study
Authors: Precisvalle Nicola , Mancinelli Maura , Ardit Matteo , Beltrami Giada , Gigli Lara , Aloise Alfredo , Catizzone Enrico , Migliori Massimo , Giordano Girolamo , Guidi Vincenzo , Martucci Annalisa
Published: June 2023

ZSM-5 zeolite is the synthetic counterpart to mutinaite. After thermal activation of the as-synthesized form, the symmetry of the ZSM-5 zeolite is lowered to the monoclinic P21/n. ZSM-5 then undergoes a polymorphic displacive phase transition from the monoclinic P21/n to the orthorhombic Pnma, Pn21a or P212121 space groups, which occurs upon heating. This phase transition can be influenced by factors such as the type and amount of sorbate molecules present in the zeolite channels. ZSM-5 has many applications, including as a catalyst or sorbent in various industries, where high thermal stability is required. In this study, four ZSM-5 zeolites with different Si/Al ratios were investigated by synchrotron X-ray powder diffraction at both room temperature and high temperature conditions to determine the effects of chemical composition on the structural response of the zeolite lattice. The results showed that the ZSM-5 zeolites retained their crystallinity and structural features throughout the thermal treatment, indicating that they could be used as effective acid catalysts. Distortions in the zeolite framework can occur after TPA+ decomposition and thermal activation, affecting thermal regeneration and efficiency. The charge balance in ZSM-5 is achieved by the formation of Brønsted acid sites, and variations in bonding geometries are influenced by the initial Si/Al ratio.
Characteristics of Phase IV Clinical Trials in Oncology: An Analysis Using the ClinicalTrials.gov Registry Data
Authors: Henry Brandon Michael , Lippi Giuseppe , Nasser Ameen , Ostrowski Patryk
Published: June 2023

The present study analyzed the characteristics of phase IV clinical trials in oncology using data from the ClinicalTrials.gov registry. The included trials were conducted between January 2013 and December 2022 and were examined for key characteristics, including outcome measures, interventions, sample sizes, and study design, different cancer types, and geographic regions. The analysis included 368 phase IV oncology studies. An amount of 50% of these studies examined both safety and efficacy, while 43.5% only reported efficacy outcome measures, and 6.5% only described safety outcome measures. Only 16.9% of studies were powered to detect adverse events with a frequency of 1 in 100. Targeted therapies accounted for the majority of included studies (53.5%), with breast (32.91%) and hematological cancers (25.82%) being the most frequently investigated malignancies. Most phase IV oncology studies lacked sufficient power to detect rare adverse events due to their small sample sizes and instead focused on effectiveness. To ensure that there is no gap in drug safety data collection and detection of rare adverse events due to limited phase IV clinical trials, there is a significant need for additional education and participation by both health care providers and patients in spontaneous reporting processes.
Signals of Pig Ancestry in Wild Boar, Sus scrofa, from Eastern Austria: Current Hybridisation or Incomplete Gene Pool Differentiation and Historical Introgressions?
Authors: Böheim Denise , Knauer Felix , Stefanović Milomir , Zink Richard , Kübber-Heiss Anna , Posautz Annika , Beiglböck Christoph , Dressler Andrea , Strauss Verena , Dier Helmut , Djan Mihajla , Veličković Nevena , Zhelev Chavdar Dinev , Smith Steve , Suchentrunk Franz
Published: June 2023

In wild boar, Sus scrofa, from Europe, domestic pig-typical ancestry is traced at varying levels. We hypothesised wild boar with pig-typical gene pool characteristics, i.e., “introgression”, congregate more in peri-urban habitats, because of less shyness and better adaptation to anthropogenic stress. We used 16 microsatellites to study introgression levels of 375 wild boar from peri-urban Vienna, Austria, and rural regions in comparison to commercial slaughter pigs, Mangaliza, and Turopolje pigs. We also expected more introgression in locations of warmer climates and lower precipitation. Despite discrimination of wild boar and pigs with 99.73% and 97.87% probability, respectively, all wild boars exhibited pig-typical gene pool characteristics, mostly at a very low level. Recent hybridisation was suspected in only 0.53% of wild boar, corresponding to the current largely indoor pig breeding/rearing in the region, with no chance of natural gene exchange between pigs and wild boar. Rather, pig ancestry in wild boar stems from incomplete gene pool differentiation during domestication and/or historical introgressions, when free-ranging pig farming was common. Individual introgression levels were lower in wild boar from peri-urban habitats, possibly reflecting the largely historical absence of pig farms there. Moreover, a marginal precipitation effect, but no temperature effect on introgression was observed. The latter, however, needs to be explored further by a more comprehensive data set.
Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma: An Up-to-Date Comprehensive Review with a Focus on Contemporary Optical Imaging Diagnostic Modalities
Authors: Razi Shazli , Khan Samavia , Truong Thu M. , Zia Shamail , Khan Farozaan Feroz , Uddin Khalid Mahmood , Rao Babar K.
Published: June 2023

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) arises from the abnormal proliferation of keratinocytes of the epidermis, most commonly due to UV-light-induced DNA damage. Although histopathological assessment is the gold standard for diagnosing cSCC, nascent optical imaging diagnostic modalities enable clinicians to perform “optical or virtual biopsy” in real-time. We aim to report advances in optical imaging diagnostics for cSCC, along with an updated review of the literature. A comprehensive literature review was performed using PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases for manuscripts published from 2008 to 2022. The search yielded a total of 9581 articles, out of which 136 relevant articles were included in the literature review after fulfilling screening and eligibility criteria. This review highlights the current optical imaging devices used for diagnosing cSCC and their diagnostic features. These devices include in vivo and ex vivo reflectance confocal microscopy, optical coherence tomography, line-field confocal optical coherence tomography, multiphoton tomography, and high-frequency ultrasonography. Although surgical excision or Mohs micrographic surgery is considered the gold standard, the latest developments in nonsurgical management of cSCC are discussed. Based on he review of the literature, we conclude that contemporary optical imaging devices such as confocal microscopy, optical coherence tomography, line-field confocal optical coherence tomography and multiphoton tomography have revolutionized real-time diagnostic imaging in dermatology, particularly within the realm of skin cancer. These devices enable rapid diagnoses and allow for a faster initiation of therapy. The application of newer imaging devices to cSCC management may benefit high-risk patients (e.g., chronic UV radiation exposure or organ transplant recipients) or patients with multifocal cSCC, for whom multiple biopsies would be impractical, thus avoiding unnecessary biopsies. Together with dermoscopy, optical imaging technologies can help to improve the efficiency of diagnosis by reducing the turnaround time and the need for extensive laboratory processing resources.
Perilla Oil, An Omega-3 Unsaturated Fatty Acid-Rich Oil, Enhances Diversity of Gut Microbiota and May Relieve Constipation in Sedentary Healthy Female: A Nonrandomized Placebo-Controlled Pilot Study
Authors: Kawamura Aki , Sugita Masaaki
Published: June 2023

This study shows the effect of omega-3 unsaturated fatty acids via perilla oil intake on gut microbiota and constipation. Eight sedentary females participated in a nonrandomized placebo-controlled pilot study consisting of eight-week perilla oil (OIL) and placebo (PLA) intervention phases. There was a 10-month washout period between phases. All participants received 9 g of perilla oil-containing jelly in the OIL phase, and a placebo jelly in the PLA phase. Gut microbiota, α-diversity, and constipation scores were measured pre- and post-intervention in both phases. The α-diversity, an important indicator of gut microbiota diversity, was significantly increased post-intervention (4.5 ± 0.1) compared to pre-intervention (3.8 ± 0.3) in the OIL only (p = 0.021). Notably, the level of α-diversity was maintained even after the washout period of 10 months. Butyrate-producing bacteria, Lachnospiraceae (%), did not change in the OIL but were significantly reduced post-intervention (15.1 ± 4.8) compared to pre-intervention (20.1 ± 7.0) in the PLA (p = 0.040). In addition, the constipation scores were significantly or tended to be reduced during the OIL phase only (p < 0.05, p < 0.1). In conclusion, an eight-week perilla oil supplementation may enhance and establish the diversity of gut microbiota, which may relieve constipation.
We Are Also Metabolites: Towards Understanding the Composition of Sweat on Fingertips via Hyperspectral Imaging
Authors: Marasco Emanuela , Ricanek Karl , Le Huy
Published: June 2023

AI-empowered sweat metabolite analysis is an emerging and open research area with great potential to add a third category to biometrics: chemical. Current biometrics use two types of information to identify humans: physical (e.g., face, eyes) and behavioral (i.e., gait, typing). Sweat offers a promising solution for enriching human identity with more discerning characteristics to overcome the limitations of current technologies (e.g., demographic differential and vulnerability to spoof attacks). The analysis of a biometric trait’s chemical properties holds potential for providing a meticulous perspective on an individual. This not only changes the taxonomy for biometrics, but also lays a foundation for more accurate and secure next-generation biometric systems. This paper discusses existing evidence about the potential held by sweat components in representing the identity of a person. We also highlight emerging methodologies and applications pertaining to sweat analysis and guide the scientific community towards transformative future research directions to design AI-empowered systems of the next generation.