bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prediction of Energy Production Level in Large PV Plants through AUTO-Encoder Based Neural-Network (AUTO-NN) with Restricted Boltzmann Feature Extraction
Authors: Ramesh Ganapathy , Logeshwaran Jaganathan , Kiruthiga Thangavel , Lloret Jaime
Published: January 2023

In general, reliable PV generation prediction is required to increase complete control quality and avoid potential damage. Accurate forecasting of direct solar radiation trends in PV power production could limit the influence of uncertainties on photovoltaics, enhance organizational dependability, and maximize the utilization factor of the PV systems for something such as an energy management system (EMS) of microgrids. This paper proposes an intelligent prediction of energy production level in large PV plants through AUTO-encoder-based Neural-Network (AUTO-NN) with Restricted Boltzmann feature extraction. Here, the solar energy output may be projected using prior sun illumination and meteorological data. The feature selection and prediction modules use an AUTO encoder-based Neural Network to improve the process of energy prediction (AUTO-NN). Restricted Boltzmann Machines (RBM) can be used during a set of regulations for development-based feature extraction. The proposed model’s result is evaluated using various constraints. As a result, the proposed AUTO-NN achieved 58.72% of RMSE (Root Mean Square Error), 62.72% of nRMSE (Normalized Root Mean Square Error), 48.04% of MaxAE (Maximum Absolute Error), 48.66% of (Mean Absolute Error), and 46.76% of (Mean Absolute Percentage Error).
Exome Sequencing Reveals SLC4A11 Variant Underlying Congenital Hereditary Endothelial Dystrophy (CHED2) Misdiagnosed as Congenital Glaucoma
Authors: Yousaf Khazeema , Naz Sadaf , Mushtaq Asma , Wohler Elizabeth , Sobreira Nara , Ho Bo-Man , Chen Li-Jia , Chu Wai-Kit , Bashir Rasheeda
Published: January 2023

Autosomal recessive congenital hereditary endothelial dystrophy (CHED2) may be misdiagnosed as primary congenital glaucoma (PCG) due to similar clinical phenotypes during early infancy. In this study, we identified a family with CHED2, which was previously misdiagnosed as having PCG, and followed up for 9 years. Linkage analysis was first completed in eight PCG-affected families, followed by whole-exome sequencing (WES) in family PKGM3. The following in silico tools were used to predict the pathogenic effects of identified variants: I-Mutant 2.0, SIFT, Polyphen-2, PROVEAN, mutation taster and PhD-SNP. After detecting an SLC4A11 variant in one family, detailed ophthalmic examinations were performed again to confirm the diagnosis. Six out of eight families had CYP1B1 gene variants responsible for PCG. However, in family PKGM3, no variants in the known PCG genes were identified. WES identified a homozygous missense variant c.2024A>C, p.(Glu675Ala) in SLC4A11. Based on the WES findings, the affected individuals underwent detailed ophthalmic examinations and were re-diagnosed with CHED2 leading to secondary glaucoma. Our results expand the genetic spectrum of CHED2. This is the first report from Pakistan of a Glu675Ala variant with CHED2 leading to secondary glaucoma. The p.Glu675Ala variant is likely a founder mutation in the Pakistani population. Our findings suggest that genome-wide neonatal screening is worthwhile to avoid the misdiagnosis of phenotypically similar diseases such as CHED2 and PCG.
Using Machine Learning to Explore Shared Genetic Pathways and Possible Endophenotypes in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Di Giovanni Daniele , Enea Roberto , Di Micco Valentina , Benvenuto Arianna , Curatolo Paolo , Emberti Gialloreti Leonardo
Published: January 2023

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous condition, characterized by complex genetic architectures and intertwined genetic/environmental interactions. Novel analysis approaches to disentangle its pathophysiology by computing large amounts of data are needed. We present an advanced machine learning technique, based on a clustering analysis on genotypical/phenotypical embedding spaces, to identify biological processes that might act as pathophysiological substrates for ASD. This technique was applied to the VariCarta database, which contained 187,794 variant events retrieved from 15,189 individuals with ASD. Nine clusters of ASD-related genes were identified. The 3 largest clusters included 68.6% of all individuals, consisting of 1455 (38.0%), 841 (21.9%), and 336 (8.7%) persons, respectively. Enrichment analysis was applied to isolate clinically relevant ASD-associated biological processes. Two of the identified clusters were characterized by individuals with an increased presence of variants linked to biological processes and cellular components, such as axon growth and guidance, synaptic membrane components, or transmission. The study also suggested other clusters with possible genotype–phenotype associations. Innovative methodologies, including machine learning, can improve our understanding of the underlying biological processes and gene variant networks that undergo the etiology and pathogenic mechanisms of ASD. Future work to ascertain the reproducibility of the presented methodology is warranted.
miRNAs: The Road from Bench to Bedside
Authors: Iacomino Giuseppe
Published: January 2023

miRNAs are small noncoding RNAs that control gene expression at the posttranscriptional level. It has been recognised that miRNA dysregulation reflects the state and function of cells and tissues, contributing to their dysfunction. The identification of hundreds of extracellular miRNAs in biological fluids has underscored their potential in the field of biomarker research. In addition, the therapeutic potential of miRNAs is receiving increasing attention in numerous conditions. On the other hand, many operative problems including stability, delivery systems, and bioavailability, still need to be solved. In this dynamic field, biopharmaceutical companies are increasingly engaged, and ongoing clinical trials point to anti-miR and miR-mimic molecules as an innovative class of molecules for upcoming therapeutic applications. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of current knowledge on several pending issues and new opportunities offered by miRNAs in the treatment of diseases and as early diagnostic tools in next-generation medicine.
Adaptive Re-Use of Historic Covered Markets: A Review of Selected Cases in European Capital Cities
Authors: Bianco Lino
Published: January 2023

Adaptive re-use is essential for the sustainability of heritage buildings. It ensures cultural and socio-economic benefits through morphing conservation to the regeneration of the urban environs. The rehabilitation of historic covered markets erected in cast/wrought iron in European capitals reinforces this philosophy. Through the critical assessment of case studies on the restoration and adaptive re-use of covered markets in Malta, Spain, and Bulgaria, this paper identifies themes relevant to their conservation. Based on the Nara Document of Authenticity, the artistic, historic, social, and scientific dimensions of each heritage building were identified. The paper contributes (i) an analysis of the adaptive re-use of historic covered markets in urban conservation areas and (ii) highlights the socio-economic success of such heritage markets through minimal private investment. All the case studies involve the adaptation of former covered markets for uses associated with culinary arts and products, and in each case, a degree of tampering was observed which could be said to affect the buildings’ cultural significance in terms of authenticity. However, the new interventions were predominantly reversible and thus the overall preservation of national heritage was, in all cases, ensured and protected for posterity.
Past, Present, and Future of Using Neuro-Fuzzy Systems for Hydrological Modeling and Forecasting
Authors: Ang Yik Kang , Talei Amin , Zahidi Izni , Rashidi Ali
Published: January 2023

Neuro-fuzzy systems (NFS), as part of artificial intelligence (AI) techniques, have become popular in modeling and forecasting applications in many fields in the past few decades. NFS are powerful tools for mapping complex associations between inputs and outputs by learning from available data. Therefore, such techniques have been found helpful for hydrological modeling and forecasting, including rainfall–runoff modeling, flood forecasting, rainfall prediction, water quality modeling, etc. Their performance has been compared with physically based models and data-driven techniques (e.g., regression-based methods, artificial neural networks, etc.), where NFS have been reported to be comparable, if not superior, to other models. Despite successful applications and increasing popularity, the development of NFS models is still challenging due to a number of limitations. This study reviews different types of NFS algorithms and discusses the typical challenges in developing NFS-based hydrological models. The challenges in developing NFS models are categorized under six topics: data pre-processing, input selection, training data selection, adaptability, interpretability, and model parameter optimization. At last, future directions for enhancing NFS models are discussed. This review–prospective article gives a helpful overview of the suitability of NFS techniques for various applications in hydrological modeling and forecasting while identifying research gaps for future studies in this area.
Patients with Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis Have Higher Metabolic Cost during High-Intensity Interval Training
Authors: Lau Rufina Wing-Lum , Kwan Rachel Lai-Chu , Cheng Jack Chun-Yiu , Hui Stanley Sai-Chuen , Lam Tsz-Ping
Published: January 2023

Background: Patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) are found to have a lower level of physical activity, and may have reduced exercise capacity due to spinal deformity. Previous study showed the benefits of high-intensity interval training (HIIT), named E-Fit, which is specifically designed for patients with AIS to improve musculoskeletal health and psychological well-being. To optimize the beneficial effects of training, the current study aimed to investigate the appropriate exercise intensity and metabolic demand in patients with AIS when performing E-Fit. Methods: In all, 22 female subjects, 10 diagnosed with AIS and 12 gender-matched healthy controls, aged between 10 and 16 years, were recruited. Subjects were instructed to perform two trials of a seven min E-Fit. Breath-by-breath gas exchange parameters including oxygen consumption (VO2), heart rate (HR) and the rate of perceived exertion (PRE) were measured during exercise. Demographic data and clinical features of AIS and body composition were obtained. Metabolic demand between AIS and control groups was compared using MANOVA with covariates adjustment. Results: Patients with AIS had an earlier onset of menarche (p = 0.01), higher visceral adipose tissue (p = 0.04) and percentage body fat (p = 0.03) as compared to controls. Patients with AIS showed a significantly higher adjusted means of VO2 average in both the first (p = 0.014) and second trials (p = 0.011) of E-Fit. The adjusted mean of the highest measured VO2 was higher than healthy controls and reached statistical significance in the second trial (p = 0.004). Both the AIS and control group exercised at a similar percentage of VO2 peak (64.26% vs. 64.60%). Conclusion: Patients with AIS showed higher oxygen consumption during E-Fit than heathy controls, which might indicate a higher metabolic cost. Patients with AIS could carry out exercise at a moderate exercise intensity similar to that of healthy controls, but special considerations in designing an exercise program, such as frequent rest intervals, would be useful to avoid fatigue among patients with AIS.
Implementation of Combined Lifestyle Interventions for Children with Overweight or Obesity: Experiences of Healthcare Professionals in Multiple Communities
Authors: Saat Jenneke J. E. H. , Naumann Elke , Fransen Gerdine A. J. , Voss Lieneke , van der Velden Koos , Assendelft Willem J. J.
Published: January 2023

Background: To counteract children with obesity, different protocols for combined lifestyle interventions (CLIs) are implemented by healthcare providers (HCPs). To understand the effects of CLI, we studied the implementation process, facilitators and barriers experienced by HCPs. Methods: A multiple case study design in which community-based CLIs (n = 4), implemented in a total of ten different communities, are conceptualized as a “case”. Qualitative data were collected via group interviews among HCPs (n = 48) regarding their implementation protocol, their network involvement and the adoption of the CLI in a community. Transcripts were coded and analysed using ATLAS.ti. Results: Barriers were the absence of a proper protocol, the low emphasis on the construction of the network and difficulty in embedding the CLI into the community. Funding for these activities was lacking. Facilitating factors were the involvement of a coordinator and to have everyone’s role regarding signalling, diagnosis, guidance and treatment clearly defined and protocolled. HCPs suggested adding certain professions to their team because they lacked expertise in parenting advice and providing mental support to children. Conclusions: Carrying out and adapting the content of the CLI to the community was experienced as easier compared to the management of the organizational aspects of the CLI. For these aspects, separate funding is essential. In the future, mapping the characteristics of a community will help to clarify this influence on the implementation even better.
Hearing Care: Safe Listening Method and System for Personal Listening Devices
Authors: Chen Fei , Xue Hui , Wang Meng , Cai Zhiling , Zhu Shipeng
Published: January 2023

Excessive use of Personal Listening Devices (PLDs) and prolonged exposure to noise from loud music create many potential risks associated with hearing loss. To this end, the World Health Organization has published Recommendation ITU-T H.870 in 2019, which provides adults and children with a set of recommendations for sound dosage and operating times needed to avoid potential hearing risks. Some studies have investigated noise exposure of related applications for listening safety, resulting in some related recommendations and applications; however, these studies often do not pay attention to measurement error, which is important for human real noise exposure estimation to avoid hearing loss. This paper proposes a method for calculating noise exposure that can accurately calculate the actual noise sound-pressure level (SPL) and PLD dosage based on the WHO-ITU standard. We develop a calculation method and design a listening system that includes (i) a Safe Listening Personal Listening Device (SL-PLD) that can measure the listening dose in real time and control the output volume effectively, (ii) a Safe Listening Application (SL-APP) for assisting the SL-PLD to check the listening status in real time and provide alerts. Our experimental results show that (i) the proposed noise calculation method can reach 0.88 dB deviation under the 76 dB reference SPL and 98.8% accuracy, as compared to the SoundCheck tool measurement, (ii) the proposed SL-PLD controls the SPL output effectively as the dose increases, and (iii) the SL-APP determines the dosage usage and will provide a warning when the dosage exceeds a preset value. Therefore, users can adjust their listening behavior for more secure listening by using our methods and applications.
Efficacy of Three Numerical Presentation Formats on Lay People’s Comprehension and Risk Perception of Fact Boxes—A Randomized Controlled Pilot Study
Authors: Aubertin Pascal , Frese Thomas , Kasper Jürgen , Mau Wilfried , Meyer Gabriele , Mikolajczyk Rafael , Richter Matthias , Schildmann Jan , Steckelberg Anke
Published: January 2023

(1) Background: Fact boxes present the benefits and harms of medical interventions in the form of tables. Some studies suggest that people with a lower level of education could profit more from graphic presentations. The objective of the study was to compare three different formats in fact boxes with regard to verbatim and gist knowledge in general and according to the educational background. (2) Methods: In May 2020, recruitment started for this randomized controlled trial. Participants were given one out of three presentation formats: natural frequencies, percentages, and graphic. We used Limesurvey® to assess comprehension/risk perception as the primary outcome. The Kruskal–Wallis test and the Mann–Whitney U test were used in addition to descriptive analyses. (3) Results: A total of 227 people took part in the study. Results of the groups were nearly identical in relation to the primary outcome verbatim knowledge, likewise in gist knowledge. However, participants with lower educational qualifications differed from participants with higher educational qualifications in terms of verbatim knowledge in the group percentages. (4) Conclusions: The results indicate that all three forms of presentation are suitable for conveying the content. Further research should take the individual preferences regarding the format into account.
The Population Comparison Index: An Intuitive Measure to Calibrate the Extent of Impairments in Patient Cohorts in Relation to Healthy and Diseased Populations
Authors: Gelbrich Götz , Morbach Caroline , Deutschbein Timo , Fassnacht Martin , Störk Stefan , Heuschmann Peter U.
Published: January 2023

We assume that a specific health constraint, e.g., a certain aspect of bodily function or quality of life that is measured by a variable X, is absent (or irrelevant) in a healthy reference population (Ref0), and it is materially present and precisely measured in a diseased reference population (Ref1). We further assume that some amount of this constraint of interest is suspected to be present in a population under study (SP). In order to quantify this issue, we propose the introduction of an intuitive measure, the population comparison index (PCI), that relates the mean value of X in population SP to the mean values of X in populations Ref0 and Ref1. This measure is defined as PCI[X] = (mean[X|SP] − mean[X|Ref0])/(mean[X|Ref1] − mean[X|Ref0]) × 100[%], where mean[X|.] is the average value of X in the respective group of individuals. For interpretation, PCI[X] ≈ 0 indicates that the values of X in the population SP are similar to those in population Ref0, and hence, the impairment measured by X is not materially present in the individuals in population SP. On the other hand, PCI[X] ≈ 100 means that the individuals in SP exhibit values of X comparable to those occurring in Ref1, i.e., the constraint of interest is equally present in populations SP and Ref1. A value of 0 < PCI[X] < 100 indicates that a certain percentage of the constraint is present in SP, and it is more than in Ref0 but less than in Ref1. A value of PCI[X] > 100 means that population SP is even more affected by the constraint than population Ref1.
Monitoring Alcohol Consumption in Slovak Cities during the COVID-19 Lockdown by Wastewater-Based Epidemiology
Authors: Bimová Paula , Tulipánová Alexandra , Bodík Igor , Fehér Miroslav , Pavelka Martin , Castiglioni Sara , Zuccato Ettore , Salgueiro-González Noelia , Petrovičová Nina , Híveš Ján , Špalková Viera , Mackuľak Tomáš
Published: January 2023

The consumption of alcohol in a population is usually monitored through individual questionnaires, forensics, and toxicological data. However, consumption estimates have some biases, mainly due to the accumulation of alcohol stocks. This study’s objective was to assess alcohol consumption in Slovakia during the COVID-19 pandemic-related lockdown using wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE). Samples of municipal wastewater were collected from three Slovak cities during the lockdown and during a successive period with lifted restrictions in 2020. The study included about 14% of the Slovak population. The urinary alcohol biomarker, ethyl sulfate (EtS), was analyzed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). EtS concentrations were used to estimate the per capita alcohol consumption in each city. The average alcohol consumption in the selected cities in 2020 ranged between 2.1 and 327 L/day/1000 inhabitants and increased during days with weaker restrictions. WBE can provide timely information on alcohol consumption at the community level, complementing epidemiology-based monitoring techniques (e.g., population surveys and sales statistics).
Personal Growth and Life Satisfaction during Fertility Treatment—A Comparison between Arab and Jewish Women
Authors: Abu-Sharkia Salam , Taubman - Ben-Ari Orit , Mofareh Ali
Published: January 2023

Coping with difficulty conceiving and the ensuing fertility treatments is a stressful experience that impacts many aspects of women’s lives. On the basis of Lazarus and Folkman’s model of stress and coping and Schaefer and Moos’s model of personal growth, and in view of the sparse literature on cultural aspects of infertility and personal growth, this study examined the relationship between stress on the one hand and personal growth and life satisfaction on the other among Arab and Jewish Israeli women. Furthermore, it investigated the moderating role played by perceived stigma, coping flexibility, cultural orientation (individualism and collectivism), and ethnicity. Two hundred five Arab and Jewish Israeli women undergoing fertility treatment completed self-report questionnaires. The results show that Arab women reported higher levels of personal growth and individualism than Jewish women. In the whole sample, a linear negative relationship was found between stress and life satisfaction, and a curvilinear relationship was found between stress and personal growth. In addition, perceived stigma, collectivism, individualism, and coping flexibility were found to moderate the association between perceived stress and personal growth. The findings provide further understanding of personal growth in the context of infertility, showing that personal resources and perceptions are more important than cultural differences in this regard.
The Impact of Interactive Control in Budget Management on Innovation Performance of Enterprises: From the Perspective of Manager Role Stress
Authors: Zeng Xiangfei , Zhang Ning , Chen Lianghua , Zhang Wenpei
Published: January 2023

This study aimed to study the influence of the interactive budget on enterprise innovation performance from the perspective of managerial psychology, and to examine the mediating effect of managers’ stress and the moderating effect of environmental turbulence in this influence. The study collected 228 managers’ data in the Yangtze River Delta region of China through online questionnaires; the structural equation model is constructed by IBM SPSS Amos 24.0, and the data is analyzed by Mplus 7.4 and IBM SPSS 23.0. The results showed that: (1) an interactive budget positively affects enterprise innovation performance; (2) the role stress of managers plays a partial mediating role in the relationship between an interactive budget and enterprise innovation performance; (3) environmental turbulence positively moderates the relationship between the interactive budget and enterprise innovation performance; and (4) the positive effect of the interactive budget on enterprise innovation performance is more significant in enterprises with a high proportion of female managers, and the negative effect on the role stress of managers is more significant in high-tech enterprises. In theory, the results enrich the research on the impact of an interactive budget on individual managers’ psychology, and further reveals the “black box” of the impact of an interactive budget on enterprise innovation performance; in practice, the results make enterprises attach importance to the influence of control environments on the psychological health of managers, and provides a reference for enterprises to use control methods rationally to promote innovation in budget management.
Iron, Zinc, Copper, Cadmium, Mercury, and Bone Tissue
Authors: Ciosek Żaneta , Kot Karolina , Rotter Iwona
Published: January 2023

The paper presents the current understanding on the effects of five metals on bone tissue, namely iron, zinc, copper, cadmium, and mercury. Iron, zinc, and copper contribute significantly to human and animal metabolism when present in sufficient amounts, but their excess or shortage increases the risk of developing bone disorders. In contrast, cadmium and mercury serve no physiological purpose and their long-term accumulation damages the osteoarticular system. We discuss the methods of action and interactions between the discussed elements as well as the concentrations of each element in distinct bone structures.
Analysis of Postural Stability Following the Application of Myofascial Release Techniques for Low Back Pain—A Randomized-Controlled Trial
Authors: Ożóg Piotr , Weber-Rajek Magdalena , Radzimińska Agnieszka , Goch Aleksander
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Low back pain (LBP) is one of the most frequently observed disorders of the musculoskeletal system in the modern population. It is suggested that myofascial disorders in the highly innervated thoracolumbar fascia (TLF), reported in patients with LBP, may be an underlying cause of the ailment. Research also confirms that patients with LBP demonstrate poorer postural stability compared with individuals without the condition. Myofascial release techniques (MFR) are additional therapeutic options that complement existing therapies and help provide a more holistic treatment for chronic LBP (CLBP). Objective: Evaluation of changes in postural stability following one MFR intervention applied to CLBP subjects immediately after manual therapy and after a month. It was hypothesized that postural stability is going to aggravate immediately after the MFR intervention and improve one month after treatment compared with the baseline results before the treatment. Methods: 113 patients with CLBP participated in a randomized-controlled trial. The experimental group (n = 59) received one MFR intervention, whereas the control group (n = 54) did not receive any therapeutic intervention. Posturography was performed to determine experimental group’s immediate response to the therapy and to evaluate the experimental and control groups’ responses to the therapy one month after the intervention. Results: Only 2 out of 12 comparisons of stabilometric parameters demonstrated reliable effects that are in line with our research hypotheses. Even though both comparisons were observed for therapy outcomes within the experimental group, no reliable differences between the groups were found. Conclusions: A single MFR treatment in the TLF did not affect postural stability in CLBP patients in the experimental group. Further studies are needed to extend the findings by performing a series of holistic MFR treatments applied to a larger area of the body surface that would induce more general tissue changes and thus having a greater impact on postural stability.
Microglial Cannabinoid CB2 Receptors in Pain Modulation
Authors: Xu Kangtai , Wu Yifei , Tian Zhuangzhuang , Xu Yuanfan , Wu Chaoran , Wang Zilong
Published: January 2023

Pain, especially chronic pain, can strongly affect patients’ quality of life. Cannabinoids ponhave been reported to produce potent analgesic effects in different preclinical pain models, where they primarily function as agonists of Gi/o protein-coupled cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptors. The CB1 receptors are abundantly expressed in both the peripheral and central nervous systems. The central activation of CB1 receptors is strongly associated with psychotropic adverse effects, thus largely limiting its therapeutic potential. However, the CB2 receptors are promising targets for pain treatment without psychotropic adverse effects, as they are primarily expressed in immune cells. Additionally, as the resident immune cells in the central nervous system, microglia are increasingly recognized as critical players in chronic pain. Accumulating evidence has demonstrated that the expression of CB2 receptors is significantly increased in activated microglia in the spinal cord, which exerts protective consequences within the surrounding neural circuitry by regulating the activity and function of microglia. In this review, we focused on recent advances in understanding the role of microglial CB2 receptors in spinal nociceptive circuitry, highlighting the mechanism of CB2 receptors in modulating microglia function and its implications for CB2 receptor- selective agonist-mediated analgesia.
Melatonin Can Modulate Neurodegenerative Diseases by Regulating Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress
Authors: Yoo Yeong-Min , Joo Seong Soo
Published: January 2023

As people age, their risks of developing degenerative diseases such as cancer, diabetes, Parkinson’s Disease (PD), Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), rheumatoid arthritis, and osteoporosis are generally increasing. Millions of people worldwide suffer from these diseases as they age. In most countries, neurodegenerative diseases are generally recognized as the number one cause afflicting the elderly. Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress has been suggested to be associated with some human neurological diseases, such as PD and AD. Melatonin, a neuroendocrine hormone mainly synthesized in the pineal gland, is involved in pleiotropically biological functions, including the control of the circadian rhythm, immune enhancement, and antioxidant, anti-aging, and anti-tumor effects. Although there are many papers on the prevention or suppression of diseases by melatonin, there are very few papers about the effects of melatonin on ER stress in neurons and neurodegenerative diseases. This paper aims to summarize and present the effects of melatonin reported so far, focusing on its effects on neurons and neurodegenerative diseases related to ER stress. Studies have shown that the primary target molecule of ER stress for melatonin is CHOP, and PERK and GRP78/BiP are the secondary target molecules. Therefore, melatonin is crucial in protecting neurons and treating neurodegeneration against ER stress.
The Immunogenicity of DENV1–4 ED3s Strongly Differ despite Their Almost Identical Three-Dimensional Structures and High Sequence Similarities
Authors: Islam Md. Din , Sharmin Tahmina , Tipo Imrul Hasan , Saha Antara , Yesmin Sanjida , Roy Moushumi Ghosh , Brindha Subbaian , Kuroda Yutaka , Islam M. Monirul
Published: January 2023

The development of a dengue (DENV) vaccine remains challenging due to the heteroserotypic infection, which can result in a potentially deadly hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome, and only a tetravalent vaccine can overcome this issue. Here, we report the immunogenicity of DENV envelope protein domain 3 (ED3) from all four DENV serotypes (DENV1–4) in Swiss albino and BALB/c mice models. Firstly, we observed that despite having very similar sequences and structures, both the humoral and cellular immunogenicity of ED3s varied significantly, with strength ranging from DENV2 ED3 (2ED3)~3ED3 > 1ED3 > 4ED3, which was assessed through anti-ED3 IgG titers, and DENV1 ED3 (1ED3) > 2ED3~3ED3 > 4ED3 as determined by monitoring T-cell memory (CD44+CD62L+ T cells with IL-4 and IFN-γ expression). Secondly, anti-1ED3 sera cross-reacted with 2ED3 and 3ED3; anti-2ED3 and anti-3ED3 sera cross-reacted with each other, but anti-4ED3 was completely serotype-specific. The lack of reciprocity of anti-1ED3’s cross-reaction was unanticipated. Such disparity in the ED3 responses and cross-reaction might underlie the appearance of hemorrhagic fever and dengue shock syndrome. Hence, the development of an ED3-based tetravalent subunit vaccine would require understanding the aforementioned disparities.
The Prognostic Value of Cancer Stem Cell Markers (CSCs) Expression—ALDH1A1, CD133, CD44—For Survival and Long-Term Follow-Up of Ovarian Cancer Patients
Authors: Izycka Natalia , Rucinski Marcin , Andrzejewska Malgorzata , Szubert Sebastian , Nowak-Markwitz Ewa , Sterzynska Karolina
Published: January 2023

Recurrent disease and treatment-associated chemoresistance are the two main factors accounting for poor clinical outcomes of ovarian cancer (OC) patients. Both can be associated with cancer stem cells (CSCs), which contribute to cancer formation, progression, chemoresistance, and recurrence. Hence, this study investigated whether the expression of known CSC-associated markers ALDH1A, CD44, and CD133 may predict OC patient prognosis. We analyzed their expression in primary epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) patients using immunohistochemistry and related them to clinicopathological data, including overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). Expression of ALDH1A1 was detected in 32%, CD133 in 28%, and CD44 in 33% of cases. While Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed no association of the expression of CD133 and CD44 with PFS and OS, ALDH1A1-positive patients were characterized with both significantly shorter OS (p = 0.00022) and PFS (p = 0.027). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that the expression of ALDH1A1, FIGO stage III–IV, and residual disease after suboptimal debulking or neoadjuvant chemotherapy correlated with shorter OS. The results of this study identify ALDH1A1 as a potential independent prognostic factor of shorter OS and PFS in EOC patients. Therefore, targeting ALDH1A1-positive cancer cells may be a promising therapeutic strategy to influence the disease course and treatment response.
Multi-Omics Profiling in PGM3 and STAT3 Deficiencies: A Tale of Two Patients
Authors: Jacob Minnie , Masood Afshan , Abdel Rahman Anas M.
Published: January 2023

Hyper-IgE Syndrome (HIES) is a heterogeneous group of primary immune-deficiency disorders characterized by elevated levels of IgE, eczema, and recurrent skin and lung infections. HIES that is autosomally dominant in the signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), and autosomal recessive mutations in phosphoglucomutase 3 (PGM3) have been reported in humans. An early diagnosis, based on clinical suspicion and immunological assessments, is challenging. Patients’ metabolomics, proteomics, and cytokine profiles were compared to DOCK 8-deficient and atopic dermatitis patients. The PGM3 metabolomics profile identified significant dysregulation in hypotaurine, hypoxanthine, uridine, and ribothymidine. The eight proteins involved include bifunctional arginine demethylase and lysyl hydroxylase (JMJD1B), type 1 protein phosphatase inhibitor 4 (PPI 4), and platelet factor 4 which aligned with an increased level of the cytokine GCSF. Patients with STAT3 deficiency, on the other hand, showed significant dysregulation in eight metabolites, including an increase in protocatechuic acid, seven proteins including ceruloplasmin, and a plasma protease C1 inhibitor, in addition to cytokine VEGF being dysregulated. Using multi-omics profiling, we identified the dysregulation of endothelial growth factor (EGFR) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) signaling pathways in PGM3 and STAT3 patients, respectively. Our findings may serve as a stepping stone for larger prospective HIES clinical cohorts to validate their future use as biomarkers.
Sol-Gel Synthesis and Characterization of Novel Y3−xMxAl5−yVyO12 (M—Na, K) Garnet-Type Compounds
Authors: Vistorskaja Diana , Laurikenas Andrius , Montejo de Luna Alejandro , Zarkov Aleksej , Pazylbek Sapargali , Kareiva Aivaras
Published: January 2023

In this study, for the first time to the best of our knowledge, the new garnets Y3−xNaxAl5O12, Y3−xKxAl5O12, Y3Al5−yVyO12, and Y3−xNaxAl5−yVyO12 with various stoichiometric compositions were successfully synthesized by the aqueous sol-gel method. All obtained samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). It was determined from the XRD results that the formation of monophasic Y3−xNaxAl5O12, Y3−xKxAl5O12, Y3Al5−yVyO12, and Y3−xNaxAl5−yVyO12 garnets is possible only at limited doping levels. The highest substitutional level of doped metal was observed for the YAG doped with sodium (x = 1), and the lowest substitutional level was observed for the YAG doped with vanadium (y = 0.05). Furthermore, the obtained FTIR spectroscopy results were in good agreement with the XRD analysis data, i.e., they confirmed that the YAG is the main crystalline phase in the end products. The SEM was used to study the morphology of the garnets, and the results obtained showed that all synthesized samples were composed of nano-sized agglomerated crystallites.
Trends towards Lower Susceptibility of Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) to Teflubenzuron in Brazil: An Evidence for Field-Evolved Resistance
Authors: Amaral Fernando Semmelroth de Assunção e , Kanno Rubens Hideo , Nascimento Antonio Rogério Bezerra do , Guidolin Aline Sartori , Omoto Celso
Published: January 2023

Susceptibility monitoring to insecticides is a key component to implementing insecticide resistance management (IRM) programs. In this research, the susceptibility to teflubenzuron in Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E Smith) was monitored in more than 200 field-collected populations from major corn-growing regions of Brazil, from 2004 to 2020. Initially, we defined a diagnostic concentration of 10 µg mL−1 of teflubenzuron using a diet-overlay bioassay for monitoring the susceptibility. A variation in the susceptibility to teflubenzuron in S. frugiperda was detected among populations from different locations. We also detected a significant reduction in the susceptibility to teflubenzuron throughout time in all the populations of S. frugiperda evaluated, with larval survival at diagnostic concentration varying from values of <5% in 2004 to up 80% in 2020. Thus, this research provides evidence of field-evolved resistance of S. frugiperda to teflubenzuron and reinforces that IRM practices are urgently needed to be implemented in Brazil.
What Is the Smallest Change in Pulse Wave Velocity Measurements That Can Be Attributed to Clinical Changes in Arterial Stiffness with Certainty: A Randomized Cross-Over Study
Authors: Podrug Mario , Šunjić Borna , Koren Pjero , Đogaš Varja , Mudnić Ivana , Boban Mladen , Jerončić Ana
Published: January 2023

Pulse wave velocity (PWV), a direct measure of arterial stiffness, is a promising biomarker of cardiovascular risk and a cardiovascular surrogate outcome. The resolution for detecting its smallest clinically significant change is dependent on the expected reproducibility, but there is currently no consensus on this. We estimated the PWV reproducibility in a range of intra-subject values that were observed over a 2 week period in a broad range of participants and under clinically relevant experimental conditions (two observers, morning/afternoon sessions, and number of visits) using SphygmoCor and Arteriograph devices. Each participant was recorded 12 times with each device over three visits, one week apart, and two morning and two afternoon recordings were taken per visit. The factors affecting reproducibility and the discrepancies between the consecutive PWV measurements for each device were also examined using multilevel mixed-effect models. We show that current PWV estimation guidance recommending 2 + 1 measurements is suboptimal because the PWV range was outside of the 1 m/s threshold for most of the participants, which is proposed as a minimal clinically important difference. The best reproducibility was yielded with median of four measurements and a 1.1 m/s threshold. Although PWV reproducibility and repeatability are frequently used interchangeably in studies, we demonstrated that despite their relative measures of variability (e.g., coefficient of variation) being comparable, their ranges revealed a clinically significant difference between them. We also found that different physiological variables were predictors of the discrepancy between the consecutive measurements made by the two devices, which is likely due to their distinct modes of operation. The evidence base for PWV reproducibility is limited, and more research is needed to deepen our understanding of the variation in arterial stiffness over time, as well as fluctuations within a population group and in an intervention setting.
Risk Mapping: Ranking and Analysis of Selected, Key Risk in Supply Chains
Authors: Richert Maria , Dudek Marek
Published: January 2023

This study aimed to analyze the impact of key causes of external and internal risk on supply chains. The basic and most probable causes of the risk are listed, based on literature research and interviews with representatives of the metal industry. The analysis was carried out by semiquantitative assessment using risk maps. The relationship between the probability of an event occurrence and its impact on supply chains was tested. The study postulates that key risk factors can be controlled through risk monitoring. Attention was drawn to the beneficial aspects of using risk maps that enable a comprehensive assessment of the situation. Both external and internal risks can cause turmoil and disruption of the supply chain. The findings suggest that external uncertainty and crises have the most direct impact on supply chain risk and are the most dangerous. The work presents the possibility of practical application of risk maps for risk assessment and monitoring. The presented approach to risk assessment complements the methodology of risk assessment and monitoring. Risk maps were used as a basic tool in assessing the impact of individual risks on supply chains. It has been found that supply chains are subject to high risk, which can be monitored through risk matrix procedures. The conducted analysis showed that critical risk areas in supply chains are external crises, environmental uncertainty, supply chain relationships, and manufacturing and the most dangerous risks in supply chains are related to external conditions beyond the control of the participants in the supply chain. The article fills a gap in research on risk monitoring in supply chains by focusing on selected, generalized measures related to industrial supply.
Mechanism of Detecting the Construction Quality of a Diaphragm Wall by an Infrared Thermal Field and Engineering Application
Authors: Wang Jianxiu , Liu Pengfei , Hu Jian , Pan Weiqiang , Long Yanxia , Cao Ansheng , Li Huboqiang , Sun Yuanwei
Published: January 2023

During underground space exploitation in the urbanization process, numerous foundation pits were constructed where a diaphragm wall was often used as a retaining structure and waterproof curtain. Due to complicated engineering geological conditions or improper construction, diaphragm walls and wall joints often exhibit quality defects. Groundwater leaked from these quality defects to foundation pits during excavation, endangering the safety of the pit and surrounding facilities. The current leakage identification of the underground retaining structure was performed by artificial visual detection, which cannot satisfy the engineering requirement. The temperature field in the leakage area of the diaphragm wall was different from other areas. The leakage wall imaging system using a thermal imager was efficient in visualizing leaking, which was not visible to the naked eye. In this study, infrared thermal imaging technology was introduced in potential leakage detection for the diaphragm wall of a foundation pit. The infrared radiation characteristics of the diaphragm wall leakage and the potential leakage parts were studied through laboratory simulation tests and on-site detection methods. The maximum temperature appeared at the water outlet and the surface of the defect with hidden defect, and the temperature field was symmetrically distributed along the cross-section direction. In the potential leakage area, the temperature difference at the penetration point was 23.4 °C when the initial water pressure was 10 kPa. The temperature difference at the penetration point was 21.8 °C when the initial water pressure was 30 kPa. In the field test, the maximum temperature difference between the leakage area and the surrounding wall was 4.5 °C. The study can provide a reference for similar engineering.
Impedance Spectroscopy as a Powerful Tool for Researching Molybdenum-Based Materials with Schiff Base Hydrazones
Authors: Sarjanović Josipa , Stojić Martina , Rubčić Mirta , Pavić Luka , Pisk Jana
Published: January 2023

Molybdenum coordination complexes are widely applied due to their biological and pharmacological potential, as well as their performance in different catalytic processes. Parent dioxidomolybdenum Schiff base complexes were prepared via the reaction of [MoO2(acac)2] with a hydrazone Schiff-base tetradentate ligand. A new hydrazone-Schiff base (H2L1 and 2) and its corresponding mononuclear and polynuclear dioxidomolybdenum(VI) complex were synthesized and characterized by spectroscopic methods and elemental analyses, and their thermal behavior was investigated by thermogravimetry. The crystal and molecular structures of H2L2 ligands and the complexes [MoO2(L1)(H2O)], [MoO2(L2)(H2O)], [MoO2(L1)(MeOH)]∙MeOH, [MoO2(L1)(EtOH)]∙EtOH, [MoO2(L1)(2-PrOH)]∙2-PrOH, and [MoO2(L1)]n were determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Using the in situ impedance spectroscopy method (IS), the structural transformations of chosen complexes were followed, and their electrical properties were examined in a wide range of temperatures and frequencies.
Research Progress on Multi-Component Alloying and Heat Treatment of High Strength and Toughness Al–Si–Cu–Mg Cast Aluminum Alloys
Authors: Zhang Mingshan , Tian Yaqiang , Zheng Xiaoping , Zhang Yuan , Chen Liansheng , Wang Junsheng
Published: January 2023

Al–Si–Cu–Mg cast aluminum alloys have important applications in automobile lightweight due to their advantages such as high strength-to-weight ratio, good heat resistance and excellent casting performance. With the increasing demand for strength and toughness of automotive parts, the development of high strength and toughness Al–Si–Cu–Mg cast aluminum alloys is one of the effective measures to promote the application of cast aluminum alloys in the automotive industry. In this paper, the research progress of improving the strength and toughness of Al–Si–Cu–Mg cast aluminum alloys was described from the aspects of multi-component alloying and heat treatment based on the strengthening mechanism of Al–Si–Cu–Mg cast aluminum alloys. Finally, the development prospects of automotive lightweight Al–Si–Cu–Mg cast aluminum alloys is presented.