bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Status of Electromagnetically Accelerating Universe
Authors: Frampton Paul H.
Published: July 2024

To describe the dark side of the universe, we adopt a novel approach where dark energy is explained as an electrically charged majority of dark matter. Dark energy, as such, does not exist. The Friedmann equation at the present time coincides with that in a conventional approach, although the cosmological “constant” in the Electromagnetic Accelerating Universe (EAU) Model shares a time dependence with the matter component. Its equation of state is ω ≡ P/ρ ≡ −1 within observational accuracy.
The Design and Impact of Interactive Online Modules for Dental Faculty Calibration
Authors: Zheng Meixun , Woo Debra , Benton Kim
Published: July 2024

The diverse backgrounds of health professions faculty often result in inconsistent teaching, clinical techniques, and feedback for students. Faculty calibration is essential for uniform, high-quality instruction. However, scheduling training sessions is challenging due to faculty availability. This study introduces a self-paced, interactive online approach to dental faculty calibration. Four self-paced online modules were developed using an interactive cloud-based platform. A variety of learning activities were interspersed throughout the module to promote active learning. A survey captured faculty’s perception of the online format. ANOVA analyses examined differences in perceived effectiveness of the online format between full-time, part-time, and adjunct faculty. The platform analytics offered insights into the faculty’s module performance. Anecdotal feedback from faculty provided evidence of behavioral changes. 94% of the faculty expressed high satisfaction with the online format. The majority of faculty agreed or strongly agreed that the online format was effective (89%), engaging (88%), and easy to navigate (84%). They highlighted the modules’ user-friendliness, flexibility, and engaging content. ANOVA analyses revealed no significant differences in perceived effectiveness of the online format between full-time, part-time, and adjunct faculty. Anecdotal feedback demonstrated that faculty were incorporating the knowledge gained from the modules into their teaching practices. This positive online experience also motivated several faculty to integrate similar online approaches into their own courses. This online approach provides a more flexible, sustainable, and interactive approach to faculty development that could be beneficial to other institutions.
COVID-19 and Digital Transformation in Higher Education Institutions: Towards Inclusive and Equitable Access to Quality Education
Authors: Matsieli Molefi , Mutula Stephen
Published: July 2024

While the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has affected both developing and developed countries, students from disadvantaged groups have suffered significantly. During the pandemic, these students not only struggled to access online education but also faced various forms of exclusion. In the post-COVID-19 pandemic era, this systematic literature review employs the concept of social justice framework to investigate the implications of the COVID-19 pandemic on higher education worldwide, focusing on the opportunities and challenges of digital transformation in ensuring inclusive and equitable access to quality higher education. The findings suggest that while digital transformation in higher education has provided substantive benefits, its adoption has also ushered in challenges for learning. The review emphasizes that higher education institutions (HEIs), alongside their governments, bear the responsibility of mitigating the challenges inherent in the context of digital learning, thereby advocating for the implementation of comprehensive strategies that adhere to best practices and embrace inclusivity. By operationalizing these strategies, HEIs will be ensuring equitable opportunities and success for all students, while also preventing analogous challenges that may arise in instances of future crises limiting physical mobility.
Enhanced Text Classification with Label-Aware Graph Convolutional Networks
Authors: Lin Ming-Yen , Liu Hsuan-Chun , Hsush Sue-Chen
Published: July 2024

Text classification is an important research field in text mining and natural language processing, gaining momentum with the growth of social networks. Despite the accuracy advancements made by deep learning models, existing graph neural network-based methods often overlook the implicit class information within texts. To address this gap, we propose a graph neural network model named LaGCN to improve classification accuracy. LaGCN utilizes the latent class information in texts, treating it as explicit class labels. It refines the graph convolution process by adding label-aware nodes to capture document–word, word–word, and word–class correlations for text classification. Comparing LaGCN with leading-edge models like HDGCN and BERT, our experiments on Ohsumed, Movie Review, 20 Newsgroups, and R8 datasets demonstrate its superiority. LaGCN outperformed existing methods, showing average accuracy improvements of 19.47%, 10%, 4.67%, and 0.4%, respectively. This advancement underscores the importance of integrating class information into graph neural networks, setting a new benchmark for text classification tasks.
Investigation of Defect Formation in Monolithic Integrated GaP Islands on Si Nanotip Wafers
Authors: Häusler Ines , Řepa Rostislav , Hammud Adnan , Skibitzki Oliver , Hatami Fariba
Published: July 2024

The monolithic integration of gallium phosphide (GaP), with its green band gap, high refractive index, large optical non-linearity, and broad transmission range on silicon (Si) substrates, is crucial for Si-based optoelectronics and integrated photonics. However, material mismatches, including thermal expansion mismatch and polar/non-polar interfaces, cause defects such as stacking faults, microtwins, and anti-phase domains in GaP, adversely affecting its electronic properties. Our paper presents a structural and defect analysis using scanning transmission electron microscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, and scanning nanobeam electron diffraction of epitaxial GaP islands grown on Si nanotips embedded in SiO2. The Si nanotips were fabricated on 200 mm n-type Si (001) wafers using a CMOS-compatible pilot line, and GaP islands were grown selectively on the tips via gas-source molecular-beam epitaxy. Two sets of samples were investigated: GaP islands nucleated on open Si nanotips and islands nucleated within self-organized nanocavities on top of the nanotips. Our results reveal that in both cases, the GaP islands align with the Si lattice without dislocations due to lattice mismatch. Defects in GaP islands are limited to microtwins and stacking faults. When GaP nucleates in the nanocavities, most defects are trapped, resulting in defect-free GaP islands. Our findings demonstrate an effective approach to mitigate defects in epitaxial GaP on Si nanotip wafers fabricated by CMOS-compatible processes.
Optimization Design of SOFC-GT Hybrid Power System for Aviation Application
Authors: Chen Zhaoyi , Liang Fengli , Mao Junkui , Wang Zaixing , Jiang Xinyong
Published: July 2024

Developing high-efficiency and low-carbon propulsion systems is a pressing concern within the aviation field. This paper studies a hybrid power system that combines a solid oxide fuel cell and a gas turbine (SOFC-GT) with propane as fuel, which is easy to store and has a high energy density. The analysis focuses on key parameters such as compressor pressure ratio, fuel utilization rate, and fuel distribution. And a balance between system efficiency and the power-to-weight ratio has been achieved through multi-objective optimization. The conclusions indicate that system efficiency and system weight in the hybrid power system are optimized in opposite directions. Within the design parameters, the hybrid power system’s efficiency achieves 0.621, the specific fuel consumption is 115.2 g/kWh, and the power-to-weight ratio is 0.569 kW/kg. Further discussion on the application of this hybrid system in long-endurance unmanned aerial vehicles shows an efficiency of 0.651 during the cruise phase, indicating a promising application prospect of a propane-fueled SOFC-GT hybrid system in the aviation field.
Investigation of Alternative Substances for Replacing Hydrogen in Methanation
Authors: Yamamoto Kazuhiro , Nakayama Ryosuke
Published: July 2024

Currently, a power-to-gas technology that obtains electrolytic hydrogen from renewable energy sources, synthesizes it with carbon dioxide, and converts it to methane has received a great deal of attention. It is called methanation, but there are few studies examining alternative substances to replace the raw material of hydrogen. Since hydrogen does not exist naturally, it is important to find other substances that react with carbon dioxide. We focus on flammable gases formed in oil refineries and petrochemical plants. In this study, based on chemical equilibrium calculations of the so-called NASA-CEA, we tested several gases including flammable and nonflammable gases by reacting them with carbon dioxide. Some of them are included in flare stacks. The reactants in the present gas conversion were H2O, CH3OH, C2H5OH, NH3, CH3CN, CH3N2CH3, C3H8O (1-propanol), C3H8O (2-propanol), C2H6, C2H4, C3H8, C3H6, C3H4 (allene), C3H4 (propine), C6H5OH, (CH3COOH)2, HCOOH, HF, HCl, HBr, H2S, HNO3, and SiH4. The results show that substances with more hydrogen atoms per mol of reactant, such as C3H8, CH3N2CH3, and SiH4, can produce more synthetic methane. One more finding is that graphite due to coking increases proportionately to the number of carbon atoms in the chemical formula.
Predictive Analysis of a Building’s Power Consumption Based on Digital Twin Platforms
Authors: Han Fengyi , Du Fei , Jiao Shuo , Zou Kaifang
Published: July 2024

Colleges and universities are large consumers of energy, with a huge potential for building energy efficiency, and need to reduce energy consumption to build a low-carbon, energy-saving campus. Predicting the energy consumption of campus buildings can help to accurately manage the electricity consumption of buildings and reduce the energy consumption of buildings. However, the electricity consumption of a building’s operation is affected by many factors, and it is difficult to establish a model for analysis and prediction. Therefore, in this study, the training building of the BIM education center on campus was selected as the research object, and a digital twin O&M platform was established by integrating IoT, digital twin technology (DDT), smart meter monitoring devices, and indoor environment monitoring devices. The O&M management platform can monitor real-time changes in indoor power consumption data and environmental parameters, and organize data on multiple influencing factors and power consumption. Following training, validation, and testing, the machine learning models (back propagation neural network, support vector model, and multiple linear regression model) were assessed and compared for accuracy. Following the multiple linear regression and support vector models, the backpropagation neural network model exhibited the highest accuracy. Consistent with the actual power consumption detection results in the BIM education center, the backpropagation neural network model produced results. Consequently, the BP model created in this study demonstrated its dependability and ability to forecast campus building power usage, assisting the university in organizing its energy supply and creating a campus that prioritizes conservation.
Distributed and Multi-Agent Reinforcement Learning Framework for Optimal Electric Vehicle Charging Scheduling
Authors: Korkas Christos D. , Tsaknakis Christos D. , Kapoutsis Athanasios Ch. , Kosmatopoulos Elias
Published: July 2024

The increasing number of electric vehicles (EVs) necessitates the installation of more charging stations. The challenge of managing these grid-connected charging stations leads to a multi-objective optimal control problem where station profitability, user preferences, grid requirements and stability should be optimized. However, it is challenging to determine the optimal charging/discharging EV schedule, since the controller should exploit fluctuations in the electricity prices, available renewable resources and available stored energy of other vehicles and cope with the uncertainty of EV arrival/departure scheduling. In addition, the growing number of connected vehicles results in a complex state and action vectors, making it difficult for centralized and single-agent controllers to handle the problem. In this paper, we propose a novel Multi-Agent and distributed Reinforcement Learning (MARL) framework that tackles the challenges mentioned above, producing controllers that achieve high performance levels under diverse conditions. In the proposed distributed framework, each charging spot makes its own charging/discharging decisions toward a cumulative cost reduction without sharing any type of private information, such as the arrival/departure time of a vehicle and its state of charge, addressing the problem of cost minimization and user satisfaction. The framework significantly improves the scalability and sample efficiency of the underlying Deep Deterministic Policy Gradient (DDPG) algorithm. Extensive numerical studies and simulations demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed approach compared with Rule-Based Controllers (RBCs) and well-established, state-of-the-art centralized RL (Reinforcement Learning) algorithms, offering performance improvements of up to 25% and 20% in reducing the energy cost and increasing user satisfaction, respectively.
Herbicide Uptake (Flashback) in Non-Target Hardwood Species within South Carolina Floodplains
Authors: Peairs Stephen E. , Timilsina Nilesh
Published: July 2024

Herbicide flashback is an undesirable response that results in damage or mortality of non-target plants near chemically treated plants. In severe instances, crop trees can be injured resulting in financial loss or inability to capture management objectives. Land managers need to know the potential limitations of using triclopyr acid (50% solution in water) and what quantity can cause damage to non-target trees (trees not aimed at for control via herbicide). Three naturally regenerated (previously clearcut) bottomland hardwood sites, ranging from 14–20 years of age, received partial overstory deadening using Trycera® herbicide. Residual “leave” trees experienced indirect herbicide uptake resulting in some trees either experiencing mortality or partial mortality with top dieback/epicormic branching. An increased probability of damage occurred as tree diameter decreased and the number of treated stems around the non-target stems increased. American sycamore, green ash, and sweetgum were most susceptible to flashback. This study examines the unanticipated chemical effect of deadening adjacent stems surrounding residual leave trees in poorly drained soils.
A Mixed Broadleaf Forest Segmentation Algorithm Based on Memory and Convolution Attention Mechanisms
Authors: Tang Xing , Li Zheng , Zhao Wenfei , Xiong Kai , Pan Xiyu , Li Jianjun
Published: July 2024

Counting the number of trees and obtaining information on tree crowns have always played important roles in the efficient and high-precision monitoring of forest resources. However, determining how to obtain the above information at a low cost and with high accuracy has always been a topic of great concern. Using deep learning methods to segment individual tree crowns in mixed broadleaf forests is a cost-effective approach to forest resource assessment. Existing crown segmentation algorithms primarily focus on discrete trees, with limited research on mixed broadleaf forests. The lack of datasets has resulted in poor segmentation performance, and occlusions in broadleaf forest images hinder accurate segmentation. To address these challenges, this study proposes a supervised segmentation method, SegcaNet, which can efficiently extract tree crowns from UAV images under natural light conditions. A dataset for dense mixed broadleaf forest crown segmentation is produced, containing 18,000 single-tree crown images and 1200 mixed broadleaf forest images. SegcaNet achieves superior segmentation results by incorporating a convolutional attention mechanism and a memory module. The experimental results indicate that SegcaNet’s mIoU values surpass those of traditional algorithms. Compared with FCN, Deeplabv3, and MemoryNetV2, SegcaNet’s mIoU is increased by 4.8%, 4.33%, and 2.13%, respectively. Additionally, it reduces instances of incorrect segmentation and over-segmentation.
Chia Seed Mucilage as a Functional Ingredient to Improve Quality of Goat Milk Yoghurt: Effects on Rheology, Texture, Microstructure and Sensory Properties
Authors: Hovjecki Marina , Radovanovic Mira , Levic Steva M. , Mirkovic Milica , Peric Ivana , Miloradovic Zorana , Jurina Irena Barukcic , Miocinovic Jelena
Published: July 2024

In contact with water, chia seeds release mucilage (MC), which is a source of various health-promoting compounds including dietary fibres. MC has been previously used as a thickening agent in cow milk yoghurt, but there are no available data on its application in goat milk. In this study, three goat milk yoghurts (without—MC0, with 1.5%—MC15 and with 3% mucilage—MC30) were produced. The rheology, texture, microbial counts, syneresis, microstructure and sensory acceptance of the yoghurts were investigated. The MC addition resulted in a reduced hysteresis area, but increased yoghurt viscosity at lower shear rates. It also improved all texture parameters at both concentration levels, while syneresis values were reduced only in sample MC30. The MC addition promoted lactobacilli viability in both supplemented yoghurts. The texture perceived by sensory evaluation was rated the highest for the sample MC30, which was also the most accepted by consumers overall. Critical attributes that reduced the acceptability of all yoghurts were flavour and acidity. In conclusion, chia seed mucilage can be used as a functional ingredient in goat milk yoghurt to produce an innovative dairy product and meet consumer expectations.
High Prevalence of ESBL Genes in Commensal Escherichia coli of the Urinary Tract: Implications for Antibiotic Stewardship among Residents of Ghanaian Elderly Nursing Care Homes
Authors: Armah Emmanuel , Osae-Nyarko Lawrencia , Idun Bright , Ahiabu Mawutor Kwame , Agyapong Isaac , Kwarteng Freda Boampong , Oppong Mercy , Mohammed Naael , Kotey Fleischer C. N. , Osei-Atweneboana Mike Yaw , Dayie Nicholas T. K. D.
Published: July 2024

The emergence and spread of extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Escherichia coli (E. coli) pose significant challenges to the treatment and control of urinary tract infections, particularly among vulnerable populations, such as the elderly living in nursing care homes. In this study, we investigated the occurrence of ESBL genes in commensal E. coli isolated from urine samples of 118 elderly individuals residing in Ghanaian nursing care homes. A total of 195 ESBL genes were detected among 41 E. coli isolated from the study participants. All the isolates harboured at least one ESBL gene, and the majority of them (70.1%) carried at least four ESBL genes. Among the ESBL genes detected, CTXM825 was the predominant (14.1%). In antimicrobial susceptibility testing, 65.9% of the isolates showed resistance to cefepime, a fourth-generation cephalosporin, while 56.1% showed resistance to cefotaxime, a third-generation cephalosporin. Additionally, 46.3% of the isolates were multidrug-resistant, indicating resistance to antibiotics from multiple classes. In summary, we observed relatively high rates of resistance to antibiotics as well as alarming rates of ESBL genes in the isolated pathogens. These findings emphasise the urgent need for antimicrobial stewardship and infection control programmes to mitigate the spread of multidrug-resistant pathogens in nursing care homes.
Comparative Metabolome and Transcriptome Analyses of the Regulatory Mechanism of Light Intensity in the Synthesis of Endogenous Hormones and Anthocyanins in Anoectochilus roxburghii (Wall.) Lindl.
Authors: Cao Jiayu , Zeng Jingjing , Hu Ruoqun , Liang Wanfeng , Zheng Tao , Yang Junjie , Liang Xiaoying , Huang Xiaowei , Chen Ying
Published: July 2024

To explore the regulatory mechanism of endogenous hormones in the synthesis of anthocyanins in Anoectochilus roxburghii (Wall.) Lindl (A. roxburghii) under different light intensities, this study used metabolomics and transcriptomics techniques to identify the key genes and transcription factors involved in anthocyanin biosynthesis. We also analyzed the changes in and correlations between plant endogenous hormones and anthocyanin metabolites under different light intensities. The results indicate that light intensity significantly affects the levels of anthocyanin glycosides and endogenous hormones in leaves. A total of 38 anthocyanin-related differential metabolites were identified. Under 75% light transmittance (T3 treatment), the leaves exhibited the highest anthocyanin content and differentially expressed genes such as chalcone synthase (CHS), flavonol synthase (FLS), and flavonoid 3′-monooxygenase (F3′H) exhibited the highest expression levels. Additionally, 13 transcription factors were found to have regulatory relationships with 7 enzyme genes, with 11 possessing cis-elements responsive to plant hormones. The expression of six genes and two transcription factors was validated using qRT-PCR, with the results agreeing with those obtained using RNA sequencing. This study revealed that by modulating endogenous hormones and transcription factors, light intensity plays a pivotal role in regulating anthocyanin glycoside synthesis in A. roxburghii leaves. These findings provide insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying light-induced changes in leaf coloration and contribute to our knowledge of plant secondary metabolite regulation caused by environmental factors.
Between Sensibility and History: The Count de Rethel (1779) by Georgiana Spencer Cavendish, Duchess of Devonshire
Authors: Vidal Hélène
Published: July 2024

The Count de Rethel: An Historical Novel (1779) can be ascribed to Georgiana Spencer Cavendish, Duchess of Devonshire (1757–1806) as a translation of Anecdotes de la cour de Philippe-Auguste (1733) by Marguerite de Lussan. The action is set at the court of Philip II of France, known as Philip Augustus, at the time of the war with King Henry II and the Crusade with Richard I, known as the Lionheart. This inspired revival of fictionalised medieval history heralding romanticism in the age of sensibility refashions the codes of chivalry according to the aesthetics of the second half of the eighteenth century. This essay focuses on the interplay between fiction and history, between the present of writing and the rewriting of history through Cavendish’s translational prism, featuring the Middle Ages as a golden age of heroism and the Count de Rethel as a paragon of ancient virtue set against contemporary men of fashion.
Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis Triggered by Herpes Simplex Virus 1 and 2: A Narrative Review
Authors: Papazachariou Andria , Ioannou Petros
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a rare, life-threatening syndrome characterized by an uncontrolled hyperinflammatory reaction. HLH is classified into primary (familial) and secondary (acquired). Secondary HLH is commonly triggered by infections, with viral infections being a leading cause. Its epidemiology and clinical features in cases associated with herpes simplex virus 1 and 2 remain underexplored. This study aimed to review all previously described cases of HSV-1 or -2-triggered HLH and provide information about this syndrome’s epidemiology, microbiology, clinical characteristics, treatment, and outcomes. Methods: A narrative review was performed based on a search in PubMed, the Cochrane Library, and Scopus. Studies published until 27 April 2024 providing relevant data for HLH due to HSV 1 and 2 in humans were included. Results: We identified 29 eligible studies reporting HLH due to HSV 1 and 2, involving 34 patients. Half of them were adults, and half were neonates. Fever and splenomegaly were the most common clinical findings. Most patients were diagnosed with HSV-1 (64.7%), with PCR being the primary diagnostic method. The median duration of in-hospital treatment was 21 days, with acyclovir and steroids being the mainstays of therapy. The overall mortality rate was 41.2%, and AST levels emerged as an independent predictor of mortality. Conclusions: Our findings underscore the need for heightened awareness surrounding HLH triggered by HSV 1 and 2 and the importance of prompt diagnosis and tailored treatment approaches.
Transformational Leadership—Quality Achievements and Benefits for the Healthcare Organizations: A Scoping Review
Authors: Tsapnidou Eleni , Kelesi Martha , Rovithis Michael , Katharakis Georgios , Gerogianni Georgia , Dafogianni Chrysoula , Toylia Georgia , Fasoi Georgia , Stavropoulou Areti
Published: July 2024

Effective nursing leadership is critical for healthcare organizations’ sustainability as nurse leaders influence many organizational aspects, including staff retention, quality of care, resource management, and development. The aim of this study is to highlight the quality achievements and benefits that transformational leadership may have for healthcare organizations. An extensive literature search has been conducted through MEDLINE and Scopus. The 6-stage framework proposed by Arksey and O’Malley was applied, guided the scoping review process. Data extracted from the included studies were systematically charted. This approach allowed for a comprehensive understanding of the advantages of transformational leadership in healthcare organizations. Of the 1245 searched articles, 26 encountered the study’s inclusion criteria. Analysis of the studies led to the formulation of two thematic categories, namely, (a) transformational leadership and human resources and (b) transformational leadership and healthcare delivery. Results indicated that transformational nursing leadership can benefit healthcare organizations in terms of effective resource management, high quality of care, and sustainability. Visionary leaders support staff retention, innovation, and research and promote organizational status and development. Through continuous support and training, transformational nurse leaders can ensure nurses’ job satisfaction and engagement, patients’ satisfaction, the best therapeutic outcomes, and high levels of organizational achievement.
Variation in Psychiatric Hospitalisations: A Multiple-Membership Multiple-Classification Analysis
Authors: Blæhr Emely Ek , Gallo Cordoba Beatriz , Skipper Niels , Søgaard Rikke
Published: July 2024

The complexity of variation in healthcare, particularly in mental health, remains poorly understood. However, addressing this issue presents an opportunity to opti-mise the allocation of scarce healthcare resources. To explore this, we investigated the variation in psychiatric care measured as the number of psychiatric hospitalisations. We estimated multiple-membership multiple-classification models utilising Danish register data for 64,694 individuals and their healthcare providers, including 2101 general practitioners, 146 community-based care institutions, 46 hospital departments, and 98 municipalities. This approach recognised that data are not strictly hierarchical. We found that, among individuals attending a single healthcare provider, 67.4% of the total variance in the number of hospitalisations corresponds to differences between individuals, 22.6% to differences between healthcare providers’ geographical location, 7.02% to differences between healthcare providers, and 3% to differences between the geographical locations of the individuals. Adding characteristics to the model ex-plained 68.5% of the variance at the healthcare provider geographical level, but almost no explanation of the variation was found on the three other levels despite the nu-merous characteristics considered. This suggests that medical practice may vary un-warrantedly between healthcare providers, indicating potential for optimisation. Streamlining medical practices, such as adhering to clinical guidelines, could lead to more efficient supply of mental health resources. In conclusion, understanding and addressing variation in psychiatric care may impact resource allocation and patient outcomes, ultimately leading to a more effective healthcare system.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder 4 Years after the COVID-19 Pandemic in Adolescents with Different Levels of Physical Activity Engagement: A Repeated Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Di Martino Giulia , Centorbi Marco , Buonsenso Andrea , Fiorilli Giovanni , della Valle Carlo , Calcagno Giuseppe , Iuliano Enzo , di Cagno Alessandra
Published: July 2024

The aim of this study was to assess whether the psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on children and adolescents had decreased four years after the initial assessment. This study aimed to determine if children with an active lifestyle and participation in sports activities were protected against this traumatic stress. This study included a total of 284 Italian participants assessed at two different time points: the first assessment was conducted in 2020 when the children were aged 9–12 years, and a second assessment was carried out four years later when the participants were aged 13–16. Participants completed the Impact of Event Scale–Revised questionnaire (IES-R), with the IES-8 and IES-15 versions used accordingly based on age group. In the 2020 assessment, 146 (51.4%) reported a score higher than the cut-off for significant traumatic stress, while in 2024, only 49 participants (17.2%). The chi-square analysis indicated that this decrement was statistically significant (p < 0.001). RM-ANOVA showed a significant reduction for both Intrusion Score and Avoidance Score (p < 0.001). A statistical interaction between gender and time was observed. There were weak correlations between the level of children’s sport practice, and no differences between those who engage in individual or team sports. Despite this study showing that young people are overcoming the pandemic crisis and its consequences, identifying potential modifiable risk factors and empowering protective factors remains crucial, especially for those who continue to experience psychological issues. The restrictions particularly impacted active children by disrupting their routine, which may have compromised the universally recognized protective value of sports.
Temporal Trends in Air Pollution Exposure across Socioeconomic Groups in The Netherlands
Authors: Hlubek Niklas , Koop Yvonne , Wagtendonk Alfred , Vaartjes Ilonca
Published: July 2024

Air pollution exposure has been linked to detrimental health outcomes. While cross-sectional studies have demonstrated socioeconomic disparities in air pollution exposure, longitudinal evidence on these disparities remains limited. The current study investigates trends in residential air pollution exposure across socioeconomic groups in the Netherlands from 2014 to 2019. Our dataset includes over 12.5 million individuals, aged 18 years and above, who resided in the Netherlands between 2014 and 2019, using Statistics Netherlands data. The address-level air pollution concentrations were estimated by dispersion models of the National Institute of Public Health and the Environment. We linked the exposure estimations of particulate matter < 10 or <2.5 μm (PM10, PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) to household-level socioeconomic data. In highly urbanized areas, individuals from both the lowest and highest socioeconomic groups were exposed to higher air pollution concentrations. Individuals from the lowest socioeconomic group were disproportionally located in highly urbanized and more polluted areas. The air pollution concentrations of PM10, PM2.5, and NO2 decreased between 2014 and 2019 for all the socioeconomic groups. The decrease in the annual average air pollution concentrations was the strongest for the lowest socioeconomic group, although differences in exposure between the socioeconomic groups remain. Further research is needed to define the health and equity implications.
Exploring the Spatiotemporal Patterns of Passenger Flows in Expanding Urban Metros: A Case Study of Shenzhen
Authors: Lv Sirui , Yang Hu , Lu Xin , Zhang Fan , Wang Pu
Published: July 2024

Despite extensive investigations on urban metro passenger flows, their evolving spatiotemporal patterns with the extensions of urban metro networks have not been well understood. Using Shenzhen as a case study city, our study initiates an investigation into this matter by analyzing the evolving network topology of Shenzhen Metro. Subsequently, leveraging long-term smart card data, we analyze the evolving spatiotemporal patterns of passenger flows and develop an analytical approach to pinpoint the major passenger sources of urban metro congestion. While the passenger travel demand and the passenger flow volumes kept increasing with the extension of the urban metro network, the major passenger sources were very stable in space, highlighting the inherent invariance in the evolution of the urban metro system. Finally, we analyze the impact of population and land use factors on passenger flow contributions of passenger sources, obtaining useful clues to foresee future passenger flow conditions.
Efficacy of Curcumin-Mediated Antimicrobial Photodynamic Therapy on Candida spp.—A Systematic Review
Authors: Kubizna Magdalena , Dawiec Grzegorz , Wiench Rafał
Published: July 2024

Oral candidiasis is a common problem among immunocompetent patients. The frequent resistance of Candida strains to popular antimycotics makes it necessary to look for alternative methods of treatment. The authors conducted a systematic review following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. The objective of this review was to determine if curcumin-mediated blue light could be considered as an alternative treatment for oral candidiasis. PubMed, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library databases were searched using a combination of the following keywords: (Candida OR candidiasis oral OR candidiasis oral OR denture stomatitis) AND (curcumin OR photodynamic therapy OR apt OR photodynamic antimicrobial chemotherapy OR PACT OR photodynamic inactivation OR PDI). The review included in vitro laboratory studies with Candida spp., in vivo animal studies, and randomized control trials (RCTs) involving patients with oral candidiasis or prosthetic stomatitis, published only in English. The method of elimination of Candida species in the studies was curcumin-mediated aPDT. A total of 757 studies were identified. Following the analysis of the titles and abstracts of the studies, only 42 studies were selected for in-depth screening, after which 26 were included in this study. All studies evaluated the antifungal efficacy of curcumin-mediated aPDT against C. albicans and non-albicans Candida. In studies conducted with planktonic cells solutions, seven studies demonstrated complete elimination of Candida spp. cells. The remaining studies demonstrated only partial elimination. In all cases, experiments on single-species yeast biofilms demonstrated partial, statistically significant inhibition of cell growth and reduction in biofilm mass. In vivo, curcumin-mediated aPDT has shown good antifungal activity against oral candidiasis also in an animal model. However, its clinical efficacy as a potent therapeutic strategy for oral candidiasis requires few further RCTs.
Cystatin F Depletion in Mycobacterium tuberculosis-Infected Macrophages Improves Cathepsin C/Granzyme B-Driven Cytotoxic Effects on HIV-Infected Cells during Coinfection
Authors: Mandal Manoj , Pires David , Calado Marta , Azevedo-Pereira José Miguel , Anes Elsa
Published: July 2024

Cystatin F (CstF) is a protease inhibitor of cysteine cathepsins, including those involved in activating the perforin/granzyme cytotoxic pathways. It is targeted at the endolysosomal pathway but can also be secreted to the extracellular milieu or endocytosed by bystander cells. CstF was shown to be significantly increased in tuberculous pleurisy, and during HIV coinfection, pleural fluids display high viral loads. In human macrophages, our previous results revealed a strong upregulation of CstF in phagocytes activated by interferon γ or after infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb). CstF manipulation using RNA silencing led to increased proteolytic activity of lysosomal cathepsins, improving Mtb intracellular killing. In the present work, we investigate the impact of CstF depletion in macrophages during the coinfection of Mtb-infected phagocytes with lymphocytes infected with HIV. The results indicate that decreasing the CstF released by phagocytes increases the major pro-granzyme convertase cathepsin C of cytotoxic immune cells from peripheral blood-derived lymphocytes. Consequently, an observed augmentation of the granzyme B cytolytic activity leads to a significant reduction in viral replication in HIV-infected CD4+ T-lymphocytes. Ultimately, this knowledge can be crucial for developing new therapeutic approaches to control both pathogens based on manipulating CstF.
Exploration of Alicyclobacillus spp. Genome in Search of Antibiotic Resistance
Authors: Bucka-Kolendo Joanna , Kiousi Despoina Eugenia , Dekowska Agnieszka , Mikołajczuk-Szczyrba Anna , Karadedos Dimitrios Marinos , Michael Panagiotis , Galanis Alex , Sokołowska Barbara
Published: July 2024

The study investigates the antibiotic resistance (AR) profiles and genetic determinants in three strains of guaiacol-producing Alicyclobacillus spp. isolated from orchard soil and pears. Their phenotypic characteristics, such as spore formation; resistance to different factors, including drugs or disinfectants; or production of off-flavor compounds, can affect the taste and aroma of spoiled products. Food and beverages are potential vectors for the transfer of antibiotic resistance genes, which is a growing health concern; thus, microorganisms in food and beverages should not be a potential source of drug resistance to consumers. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) was utilized to identify antibiotic resistance genes, metabolic pathways, and elements associated with guaiacol and halophenol production. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) testing revealed that all strains were susceptible to eight out of nine tested antibiotics (ampicillin, gentamycin, kanamycin, streptomycin, clindamycin, tetracycline, chloramphenicol, and vancomycin) but exhibited high resistance to erythromycin. Analysis indicated that the erythromycin resistance gene, ribosomal RNA small subunit methyltransferase A (RsmA), was intrinsic and likely acquired through horizontal gene transfer (HGT). The comprehensive genomic analysis provides insights into the molecular mechanisms of antibiotic resistance in Alicyclobacillus spp., highlighting the potential risk of these bacteria as vectors for antibiotic resistance genes in the food chain. This study expands the understanding of the genetic makeup of these spoilage bacteria and their role in antimicrobial resistance dissemination.
N-Myc and STAT Interactor is an Endometriosis Suppressor
Authors: Park Yuri , Guan Xiaoming , Han Sang Jun
Published: July 2024

In patients with endometriosis, refluxed endometrial fragments evade host immunosurveillance, developing into endometriotic lesions. However, the mechanisms underlying this evasion have not been fully elucidated. N-Myc and STAT Interactor (NMI) have been identified as key players in host immunosurveillance, including interferon (IFN)-induced cell death signaling pathways. NMI levels are markedly reduced in the stromal cells of human endometriotic lesions due to modulation by the Estrogen Receptor beta/Histone Deacetylase 8 axis. Knocking down NMI in immortalized human endometrial stromal cells (IHESCs) led to elevated RNA levels of genes involved in cell-to-cell adhesion and extracellular matrix signaling following IFNA treatment. Furthermore, NMI knockdown inhibited IFN-regulated canonical signaling pathways, such as apoptosis mediated by Interferon Stimulated Gene Factor 3 and necroptosis upon IFNA treatment. In contrast, NMI knockdown with IFNA treatment activated non-canonical IFN-regulated signaling pathways that promote proliferation, including β-Catenin and AKT signaling. Moreover, NMI knockdown in IHESCs stimulated ectopic lesions’ growth in mouse endometriosis models. Therefore, NMI is a novel endometriosis suppressor, enhancing apoptosis and inhibiting proliferation and cell adhesion of endometrial cells upon IFN exposure.
Quadruplex Droplet Digital PCR Assay for Screening and Quantification of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Li Rong , Zhu Zaobing , Guo Yongkun , Yang Litao
Published: July 2024

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the rapid global spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) since early 2020, has highlighted the need for sensitive and reliable diagnostic methods. Droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) has demonstrated superior performance over the gold-standard reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR) in detecting SARS-CoV-2. In this study, we explored the development of a multiplex ddPCR assay that enables sensitive quantification of SARS-CoV-2, which could be utilized for antiviral screening and the monitoring of COVID-19 patients. We designed a quadruplex ddPCR assay targeting four SARS-CoV-2 genes and evaluated its performance in terms of specificity, sensitivity, linearity, reproducibility, and precision using a two-color ddPCR detection system. The results showed that the quadruplex assay had comparable limits of detection and accuracy to the simplex ddPCR assays. Importantly, the quadruplex assay demonstrated significantly improved performance for samples with low viral loads and ambiguous results compared to the standard qRT-PCR approach. The developed multiplex ddPCR represents a valuable alternative and complementary tool for the diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 and potentially other pathogens in various application scenarios beyond the current COVID-19 pandemic. The improved sensitivity and reliability of this assay could contribute to more effective disease monitoring and antiviral screening during the ongoing public health crisis.
Telomere Length, Telomerase Activity, and Vaginal Microbiome in Patients with HPV-Related Precancerous Lesions
Authors: Boniewska-Bernacka Ewa , Pańczyszyn Anna , Głąb Grzegorz , Goc Anna
Published: July 2024

Persistent high-risk human papillomaviruses (HR HPVs) infection leads to the development of squamous intraepithelial lesions in cervical cells that may lead to cancer. The telomere length, telomerase activity, and species composition of the vaginal microbiome may influence the dynamic of changes and the process of carcinogenesis. In the present study, we analyze relative telomere length (RTL), relative hTERT expression (gene for the telomerase component—reverse transcriptase) in cervical smear cells and vaginal microbiomes. Total RNA and DNA were isolated from tissue samples of 109 patients from the following groups: control, carrier, low-grade or high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (L SIL and H SIL, respectively), and cancer. The quantitative PCR method was used to measure telomere length and telomerase expression. Vaginal microbiome bacteria were divided into community state types using morphotype criteria. Significant differences between histopathology groups were confirmed for both relative telomere length and relative hTERT expression (p < 0.001 and p = 0.001, respectively). A significant difference in RTL was identified between carriers and H SIL (p adj < 0.001) groups, as well as between carriers and L SIL groups (p adj = 0.048). In both cases, RTL was lower among carriers. The highest relative hTERT expression level was recorded in the H SIL group, and the highest relative hTERT expression level was recorded between carriers and the H SIL group (p adj < 0.001). A correlation between genotype and biocenosis was identified for genotype 16+A (p < 0.001). The results suggest that identification of HPV infection, telomere length assessment, and hTERT expression measurement together may be more predictive than each of these analyses performed separately.
Comparison of Double-Stranded DNA at the 5′ and 3′ Ends of the G-Triplex and Its Application in the Detection of Hg(II)
Authors: Cai Yule , Wu Ziyi , Li Xiangxiang , Hu Xingting , Wu Jiamin , You Zhengying , Qiu Jieqiong
Published: July 2024

Leveraging the fluorescence enhancement effect of the G-triplex (G3)/thioflavin T (ThT) catalyzed by the adjacent double-stranded DNA positioned at the 5′ terminus of the G3, the G3-specific oligonucleotide (G3MB6) was utilized to facilitate the rapid detection of mercury (Hg(II)) through thymine–Hg(II)–thymine (T-Hg(II)-T) interactions. G3MB6 adopted a hairpin structure in which partially complementary strands could be disrupted with the presence of Hg(II). It prompted the formation of double-stranded DNA by T-Hg(II)-T, inducing the unbound single strand of G3MB6 to spontaneously form a parallel G3 structure, producing a solid fluorescence signal by ThT. Conversely, fluorescence was absent without Hg(II), since no double strand and formation of G3 occurred. The fluorescence intensity of G3MB6 exhibited a positive correlation with Hg(II) concentrations from 17.72 to 300 nM (R2 = 0.9954), boasting a notably low quality of limitation (LOQ) of 17.72 nM. Additionally, it demonstrated remarkable selectivity for detecting Hg(II). Upon application to detect Hg(II) in milk samples, the recovery rates went from 100.3% to 103.2%.