bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of Differentially Expressed Genes and microRNAs in the Gray and White Feather Follicles of Shitou Geese
Authors: Guo Pengyun , Chen Junpeng , Luo Lei , Zhang Xumeng , Li Xiujin , Huang Yunmao , Wu Zhongping , Tian Yunbo
Published: May 2024

The Shitou goose, a highly recognized indigenous breed with gray plumage originating from Chaozhou Raoping in Guangdong Province, China, is renowned for being the largest goose species in the country. Notably, during the pure breeding process of Shitou geese, approximately 2% of the offspring in each generation unexpectedly exhibited white plumage. To better understand the mechanisms underlying white plumage color formation in Shitou geese, we conducted a comparative transcriptome analysis between white and gray feather follicles, aiming to identify key genes and microRNAs that potentially regulate white plumage coloration in this unique goose breed. Our results revealed a number of pigmentation genes, encompassing TYR, TYRP1, EDNRB2, MLANA, SOX10, SLC45A2, GPR143, TRPM1, OCA2, ASIP, KIT, and SLC24A5, which were significantly down-regulated in the white feather follicles of Shitou geese. Among these genes, EDNRB2 and KIT emerged as the most promising candidate genes for white plumage coloration in Shitou geese. Additionally, our analysis also uncovered 46 differentially expressed miRNAs. Of these, miR-144-y may play crucial roles in the regulation of feather pigmentation. Furthermore, the expression of novel-m0086-5p, miR-489-y, miR-223-x, miR-7565-z, and miR-3535-z exhibits a significant negative correlation with the expression of pigmentation genes including TYRP1, EDNRB2, MLANA, SOX10, TRPM1, and KIT, suggesting these miRNAs may indirectly regulate the expression of these genes, thereby influencing feather color. Our findings provide valuable insights into the genetic mechanisms underlying white plumage coloration in Shitou geese and contribute to the broader understanding of avian genetics and coloration research.
Assessment of Indoor Radon Gas Concentration in Latvian Households
Authors: Reste Jeļena , Rīmere Nadīna , Romans Andris , Martinsone Žanna , Mārtiņsone Inese , Vanadziņš Ivars , Pavlovska Ilona
Published: May 2024

Exposure to radon gas in households presents serious health risks, including an increased likelihood of lung cancer. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, the change in individual habits has led to more time spent in indoor environments with remote activities; thus, the need to raise the awareness of air quality in dwellings and to mitigate the exposure of inhabitants to radon has emerged. This study investigated radon gas concentrations in the air of Latvian dwellings. RadTrack2 passive detectors were deployed in a representative sample of households across 106 municipalities of Latvia (98% of the territory), yielding data from 487 households (973 detectors). The data revealed a median radon concentration of 52 Bq/m3 (Q1 and Q3 were 29 and 93 Bq/m3), with the majority of samples (95.6%) falling below the national reference limit of 200 Bq/m3. The building type and presence of a cellar significantly impacted radon levels, with structures lacking cellars and older buildings exhibiting higher concentrations. Mechanical ventilation proved to be more effective in reducing radon levels, compared to natural ventilation. These findings emphasize the necessity of proactive measures to mitigate indoor radon exposure and to ensure the well-being of occupants. Additionally, the dissemination of research data on radon exposure through open-access scientific publications is vital for raising awareness and implementing effective mitigation strategies.
Impact of Meteorological Conditions on PM2.5 Pollution in Changchun and Associated Health Risks Analysis
Authors: Fang Chunsheng , Li Xinlong , Li Juan , Tian Jiaqi , Wang Ju
Published: May 2024

The escalating concern regarding increasing air pollution and its impact on the health risks associated with PM2.5 in developing countries necessitates attention. Thus, this study utilizes the WRF-CMAQ model to simulate the effects of meteorological conditions on PM2.5 levels in Changchun, a typical city in China, during January 2017 and January 2020. Additionally, it introduces a novel health risk-based air quality index (NHAQI) to assess the influence of meteorological parameters and associated health risks. The findings indicate that in January 2020, the 2-m temperature (T2), 10-m wind speed (WS10), and planetary boundary layer height (PBLH) were lower compared to those in 2017, while air pressure exhibited a slight increase. These meteorological parameters, characterized by reduced wind speed, heightened air pressure, and lower boundary layer height—factors unfavorable for pollutant dispersion—collectively contribute to the accumulation of PM2.5 in the atmosphere. Moreover, the NHAQI proves to be more effective in evaluating health risks compared to the air quality index (AQI). The annual average decrease in NHAQI across six municipal districts from 2017 to 2020 amounts to 18.05%. Notably, the highest health risks are observed during the winter among the four seasons, particularly in densely populated areas. The pollutants contributing the most to the total excess risk (ERtotal) are PM2.5 (45.46%), PM10 (33.30%), and O3 (13.57%) in 2017, and PM2.5 (67.41%), PM10 (22.32%), and O3 (8.41%) in 2020. These results underscore the ongoing necessity for PM2.5 emission control measures while emphasizing the importance of considering meteorological parameters in the development of PM2.5 reduction strategies.
Neuroinflammation and Dyskinesia: A Possible Causative Relationship?
Authors: Cardinale Antonella , de Iure Antonio , Picconi Barbara
Published: May 2024

Levodopa (L-DOPA) treatment represents the gold standard therapy for Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients. L-DOPA therapy shows many side effects, among them, L-DOPA-induced dyskinesias (LIDs) remain the most problematic. Several are the mechanisms underlying these processes: abnormal corticostriatal neurotransmission, pre- and post-synaptic neuronal events, changes in gene expression, and altered plasticity. In recent years, researchers have also suggested non-neuronal mechanisms as a possible cause for LIDs. We reviewed recent clinical and pre-clinical studies on neuroinflammation contribution to LIDs. Microglia and astrocytes seem to play a strategic role in LIDs phenomenon. In particular, their inflammatory response affects neuron-glia communication, synaptic activity and neuroplasticity, contributing to LIDs development. Finally, we describe possible new therapeutic interventions for dyskinesia prevention targeting glia cells.
Exploring Binocular Visual Attention by Presenting Rapid Dichoptic and Dioptic Series
Authors: Moreno-Sánchez Manuel , Matsushima Elton H. , Aznar-Casanova Jose Antonio
Published: May 2024

This study addresses an issue in attentional distribution in a binocular visual system using RSVP tasks under Attentional Blink (AB) experimental protocols. In Experiment 1, we employed dichoptic RSVP to verify whether, under interocular competition, attention may be captured by a monocular channel. Experiment 2 was a control experiment, where a monoptic RSVP assessed by both or only one eye determines whether Experiment 1 monocular condition results were due to an allocation of attention to one eye. Experiment 3 was also a control experiment designed to determine whether Experiment 1 results were due to the effect of interocular competition or to a diminished visual contrast. Results from Experiment 1 revealed that dichoptic presentations caused a delay in the type stage of the Wyble’s eSTST model, postponing the subsequent tokenization process. The delay in monocular conditions may be further explained by a visual attenuation, due to fusion of target and an empty frame. Experiment 2 evidenced the attentional allocation to monocular channels when forced by eye occlusion. Experiment 3 disclosed that monocular performance in Experiment 1 differs significantly from conditions with interocular competition. While both experiments revealed similar performance in monocular conditions, rivalry conditions exhibit lower detection rates, suggesting that competing stimuli was not responsible for Experiment 1 results. These findings highlight the differences between dichoptic and monoptic presentations of stimuli, particularly on the AB effect, which appears attenuated or absent in dichoptic settings. Furthermore, results suggest that monoptic presentation and binocular fusion stages were a necessary condition for the attentional allocation.
“Today, I Say It’s Mine!”: Professional Identity Construction among Jewish and Arab School Counselors Coping with CSA Disclosure in Israel
Authors: Zinn Dafna , Lusky-Weisrose Efrat , Shaibe Jordan , Sigad Laura I. , Tener Dafna
Published: May 2024

School counselors play a crucial role in preventing, disclosing, and intervening in child sexual abuse cases (CSA) and in maintaining safe and protected school environments. However, research on their experiences coping with CSA remains limited. The purpose of the present study was to describe and analyze the coping experiences of Israeli Jewish and Arab school counselors with CSA disclosure, particularly the consequences for their processes of professional identity construction (the ongoing process through which they develop and refine their sense of self in their profession). Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 21 Israeli Jewish and Arab school counselors working in elementary schools (grades 1–6) with significant experience in coping with CSA. Two themes surfaced, reflecting the counselors’ professional identity construction: (1) Counselors’ professional identity transformation following encounters with CSA among their students; (2) Integrating professional knowledge, attitudes, and engagement behaviors into professional identity. The findings describe a trajectory of transformation and professional development among the counselors, beginning with defining and refining their professional roles and followed by the integration of professional knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors into their professional routines. Arab counselors also highlighted specific sociocultural challenges within this process, relating to the gap between cultural values and role expectations. Implications for future research, policy, and practice are discussed.
Unveiling Key Factors Shaping Energy Storage Strategies for Sustainable Energy Communities
Authors: Palacios-Ferrer José Andrés , Rey-Martínez Francisco J. , Repenning-Bzdigian Christian A. , Rey-Hernández Javier M.
Published: May 2024

This research delves into a case study of a photovoltaic (PV) energy community, leveraging empirical data to explore the integration of renewable energy sources and storage solutions. By evaluating energy generation and consumption patterns within real-world energy communities (a nominal generation capacity of 33 kWn) in Gipuzkoa, Spain, from May 2022 to May 2023, this study comprehensively examines operational dynamics and performance metrics. This study highlights the critical role of energy consumption patterns in facilitating the integration of renewable energy sources and underscores the importance of proactive strategies to manage demand fluctuations effectively. Against the backdrop of rising energy costs and environmental concerns, renewable energies and storage solutions emerge as compelling alternatives, offering financial feasibility and environmental benefits within energy communities. This study emphasizes the necessity of research and development efforts to develop efficient energy storage technologies and the importance of economic incentives and collaborative initiatives to drive investments in renewable energy infrastructure. The analyzed results provide valuable insights into operational dynamics and performance metrics, further advancing our understanding of their transformative potential in achieving a sustainable energy future. Specifically, our study suggests that storage capacity should ideally support an average annual capacity of 23%, with fluctuations observed where this capacity may double or reduce to a minimum in certain months. Given the current market conditions, our findings indicate the necessity of significant public subsidies, amounting to no less than 67%, to facilitate the installation of storage infrastructure, especially in cases where initial investments are not covered by the energy community.
Fortifying Slab Resilience against Touch-Off Explosions: Integration of Innovative Stud Reinforcements and Computational Analysis
Authors: Anas S. M. , Al-Dala’ien Rayeh Nasr , Shariq Mohd , Alam Mehtab
Published: May 2024

Explosions, once limited to military and accidental contexts, now occur frequently due to advances in warfare, local disputes, and global conflicts. Recent incidents, like urban bombings, emphasize the urgent need for infrastructure to withstand explosions. Slabs, critical in architectural frameworks, are vulnerable to explosive forces due to their slimness, making them prime targets for sabotage. Scholars have explored various strategies to fortify slabs, including the use of advanced materials like CFRP laminates/strips, steel sheets and ultra-high-strength concrete, along with reinforcement techniques such as two-mesh and diagonal reinforcements. A novel approach introduced in current research involves integrating vertical short bars, or studs, to enhance slab resilience against touch-off explosions. The aim of this research endeavor is to assess the impact of studs and their utilization in bolstering the anti-contact-blast capabilities of a concrete slab. To achieve this goal, a specialized framework within the ABAQUS/Explicit 2020 software is employed for comprehensive analysis. Initially, a conventionally reinforced slab devoid of studs serves as the benchmark model for numerical validation, facilitating a comparative assessment of its anti-contact-blast effectiveness against the findings outlined by Zhao and colleagues in 2019. Following successful validation, six additional distinct slab models are formulated utilizing sophisticated software, incorporating studs of varying heights, namely, 15 mm and 10 mm. Each configuration encompasses three distinct welding scenarios: (i) integration with upper-layer bars, (ii) attachment to bottom-layer bars, and (iii) connection to both upper- and bottom-layer bars. The comparative merits of the slabs are evaluated and deliberated upon through the examination of diverse response parameters. The research revealed that the incorporation of studs within slabs yielded notable enhancements in blast resistance. Specifically, taller studs demonstrated exceptional resilience against deformation, cracking, and perforation, while also diminishing plastic damage energy. Particularly noteworthy was the superior performance observed in slabs with studs welded to both upper and lower layers of re-bars. This highlights the critical significance of both the integration of studs and their precise positioning in fortifying structural integrity against blast-induced loadings.
Machine Learning Insights: Exploring Key Factors Influencing Sale-to-List Ratio—Insights from SVM Classification and Recursive Feature Selection in the US Real Estate Market
Authors: Sobieraj Janusz , Metelski Dominik
Published: May 2024

The US real estate market is a complex ecosystem influenced by multiple factors, making it critical for stakeholders to understand its dynamics. This study uses Zillow Econ (monthly) data from January 2018 to October 2023 across 100 major regions gathered through Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) and advanced machine learning techniques, including radial kernel Support Vector Machines (SVMs), used to predict the sale-to-list ratio, a key metric that indicates the market health and competitiveness of the US real estate. Recursive Feature Elimination (RFE) is used to identify influential variables that provide insight into market dynamics. Results show that SVM achieves approximately 85% accuracy, with temporal indicators such as Days to Pending and Days to Close, pricing dynamics such as Listing Price Cut and Share of Listings with Price Cut, and rental market conditions captured by the Zillow Observed Rent Index (ZORI) emerging as critical factors influencing the sale-to-list ratio. The comparison between SVM alphas and RFE highlights the importance of time, price, and rental market indicators in understanding market trends. This study underscores the interplay between these variables and provides actionable insights for stakeholders. By contextualizing the findings within the existing literature, this study emphasizes the importance of considering multiple factors in housing market analysis. Recommendations include using pricing dynamics and rental market conditions to inform pricing strategies and negotiation tactics. This study adds to the body of knowledge in real estate research and provides a foundation for informed decision-making in the ever-evolving real estate landscape.
Evaluation of Satisfaction with Spatial Reuse of Industrial Heritage in High-Density Urban Areas: A Case Study of the Core Area of Beijing’s Central City
Authors: Meng Fanlei , Zhang Xinyu , Pang Yuxiang
Published: May 2024

Industrial heritage is regarded as an important stock of spatial resources in cities, which highlights its utilization value for urban regeneration in high-density urban areas. With the dramatic increase in the number of industrial heritage reuse projects, how to scientifically evaluate the satisfaction with their spatial reuse is a key part of the solution for the mutual balance between heritage preservation and urban renewal. This paper takes eight industrial heritage conversion and utilization projects in the high-density core area of Beijing’s central city as examples; establishes an evaluation system for the satisfaction with the spatial reuse through six dimensions, namely, functional replacement, transportation accessibility, carrying capacity, public space, boundary form, and recognition of value; and uses the IPA method to evaluate the cases. This method is used to determine the degree of user satisfaction with the spatial reuse of industrial heritage in the core area of Beijing’s central city and to summarize the advantages and problems of its reuse. The results of this study reveal a trend toward the “community-oriented” re-generation of industrial heritage in the core area of Beijing’s central city, and this paper proposes recommendations for adaptive use to support high-quality urban regeneration work.
Integrating Life Cycle Cost Analysis for Sustainable Maintenance of Historic Buildings
Authors: Hromada Eduard , Macek Daniel , Heralova Renata Schneiderova , Brožová Lucie , Střelcová Iveta
Published: May 2024

This study examines the strategic use of life cycle cost analyses (LCCAs) in the management and conservation of heritage sites, emphasizing the need for comprehensive financial planning. With an increasing number of heritage sites showing signs of deterioration, our aim was to improve the sustainability and effectiveness of restoration practices. We used dynamic life cycle costing methods and developed the MONUREV software V2 to simulate different restoration scenarios, providing accurate, data-driven projections for maintaining structural, functional and aesthetic integrity. The field research involved testing these methods through case studies of heritage buildings in the Czech Republic, focusing on holistic cost management from initial analysis to practical application. The results showed that LCC analysis can significantly assist in making informed decisions, balancing economic and cultural values, and ensuring long-term conservation outcomes. This study concludes that the integration of a detailed LCC analysis into heritage conservation strategies represents a methodological advance that can significantly improve the economic and operational planning of the maintenance of heritage buildings, thereby ensuring their preservation for future generations.
Neuropilin2 in Mesenchymal Stromal Cells as a Potential Novel Therapeutic Target in Myelofibrosis
Authors: Vosbeck Karla , Förster Sarah , Mayr Thomas , Sahu Anshupa , Haddouti El-Mustapha , Al-Adilee Osamah , Körber Ruth-Miriam , Bisht Savita , Muders Michael H. , Nesic Svetozar , Buness Andreas , Kristiansen Glen , Schildberg Frank A. , Gütgemann Ines
Published: May 2024

Bone marrow fibrosis in myeloproliferative neoplasm (MPN), myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), MPN/MDS overlap syndromes and acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is associated with poor prognosis and early treatment failure. Myelofibrosis (MF) is accompanied by reprogramming of multipotent bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) into osteoid and fiber-producing stromal cells. We demonstrate NRP2 and osteolineage marker NCAM1 (neural cell adhesion molecule 1) expression within the endosteal niche in normal bone marrow and aberrantly in MPN, MDS MPN/MDS overlap syndromes and AML (n = 99), as assessed by immunohistochemistry. Increased and diffuse expression in mesenchymal stromal cells and osteoblasts correlates with high MF grade in MPN (p < 0.05 for NRP2 and NCAM1). Single cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq) re-analysis demonstrated NRP2 expression in endothelial cells and partial co-expression of NRP2 and NCAM1 in normal MSC and osteoblasts. Potential ligands included transforming growth factor β1 (TGFB1) from osteoblasts and megakaryocytes. Murine ThPO and JAK2V617F myelofibrosis models showed co-expression of Nrp2 and Ncam1 in osteolineage cells, while fibrosis-promoting MSC only express Nrp2. In vitro experiments with MC3T3-E1 pre-osteoblasts and analysis of Nrp2−/− mouse femurs suggest that Nrp2 is functionally involved in osteogenesis. In summary, NRP2 represents a potential novel druggable target in patients with myelofibrosis.
The Utility of Intraluminal Therapies in Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma: A Narrative Review
Authors: Tyrrell Jack , Chui William , Kealey Joshua , Sengupta Shomik
Published: May 2024

Nephron sparing surgery (NSS) is considered for selected cases of upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) as it maintains renal function and avoids morbidity associated with radical nephroureterectomy (RNU). The appropriate selection of patients suitable for NSS without compromising oncological outcomes can sometimes be difficult, given the limitations of diagnostic modalities. Recurrence rates for UTUC can be as high as 36 to 54% after NSS. Intraluminal adjuvant therapy can be attempted following NSS to reduce recurrence, but delivery to the upper tract is more challenging than into the bladder. Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) and chemotherapy such as Mitomycin (MMC) have been administered via nephrostomy or ureteric catheter, which requires invasive/repeated instrumentation of the upper urinary tract. Drug delivery by reflux from bladder instillation along indwelling stents has also been tried but can potentially be unreliable. Recently, a gel formulation of mitomycin has been developed for the controlled exposure of the upper urinary tract to treatment over a number of hours. Drug-eluting stents to deliver chemotherapy to the upper urinary tract have been developed but have not yet entered clinical practice. Endoluminal phototherapy utilising an intravenous photosensitising agent is another novel approach that has recently been described. Intraluminal therapies may be beneficial in decreasing recurrence rates in UTUC, but currently have some limitations in their usage.
Combination of miR-99b-5p and Enzalutamide or Abiraterone Synergizes the Suppression of EMT-Mediated Metastasis in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Waseem Mohammad , Wang Bi-Dar
Published: May 2024

Prostate cancer (PCa) is the most frequently diagnosed cancer and second leading cause of cancer deaths among American men. Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) has been systemically applied as a first-line therapy for PCa patients. Despite the initial responses, the majority of patients under ADT eventually experienced tumor progression to castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), further leading to tumor metastasis to distant organs. Therefore, identifying the key molecular mechanisms underlying PCa progression remains crucial for the development of novel therapies for metastatic PCa. Previously, we identified that tumor-suppressive miR-99b-5p is frequently downregulated in aggressive African American (AA) PCa and European American (EA) CRPC, leading to upregulation of mTOR, androgen receptor (AR), and HIF-1α signaling. Given the fact that mTOR and HIF-1α signaling are critical upstream pathways that trigger the activation of epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), we hypothesized that miR-99b-5p may play a critical functional role in regulating EMT-mediated PCa metastasis. To test this hypothesis, a series of cell biology, biochemical, and in vitro functional assays (wound healing, transwell migration, cell/ECM adhesion, and capillary-like tube formation assays) were performed to examine the effects of miR-99b-5p mimic on regulating EMT-mediated PCa metastasis processes. Our results have demonstrated that miR-99b-5p simultaneously targets MTOR and AR signaling, leading to upregulation of E-cadherin, downregulation of Snail/N-cadherin/Vimentin, and suppression of EMT-mediated PCa metastasis. MiR-99b-5p alone and in combination with enzalutamide or abiraterone significantly inhibits the EMT-mediated metastasis of AA PCa and EA CRPC.
Diversity of Helminths of Insectivorous Mammals (Mammalia: Eulipothyphla) from Large Forest Protected Areas of the Middle Volga Region (European Russia)
Authors: Kirillova Nadezhda Yu. , Kirillov Alexander A. , Ruchin Alexander B. , Fayzulin Alexander I.
Published: May 2024

Insectivores (Eulypotiphla) are a substantial component of Russian forest ecosystems. The parasites of these animals also form an important part of natural biocenoses and act as one of the factors in the formation of biodiversity. The Mordovia Nature Reserve and National Park “Smolny” are large, forested areas located in the center of European Russia. We studied the helminth fauna of insectivores in these protected areas in 2018–2022. In total, using the method of complete helminthological necropsy, we examined 478 individuals of shrews, moles, and hedgehogs and recorded 34 species of parasitic worms, i.e., 8 trematode, 7 cestode, 1 acanthocephalan, and 18 nematode species. The most diverse helminth fauna was found in Sorex araneus (22 species). The composition of helminths in S. isodon (12), Neomys fodiens (9), Sorex minutus, and Erinaceus roumanicus (8 species each) turned out to be less diverse. The lowest species diversity of helminths was observed in Neomys milleri (3) and Talpae europaea (2 species). Taking into account the newly obtained data, we conducted a review of the helminth diversity in shrews, hedgehogs, and moles in the Middle Volga region. According to our literature data, the helminth fauna of insectivores in this region consists of 52 species, including 14 cestodes, 13 trematodes, 22 nematodes, and 3 acanthocephalans. Most of them belong to the Palearctic faunal complex (36 species). The helminth fauna of insectivores in the studied protected areas was compared with the helminth fauna of micromammals in other areas of the Middle Volga region. Our comparative analysis showed a high and average degree of similarity in the helminth fauna within individual species and genera of Eulipotyphla.
Objective Methods to Assess Aorto-Iliac Calcifications: A Systematic Review
Authors: Fornasari Anna , Kuntz Salomé , Martini Chiara , Perini Paolo , Cabrini Elisa , Freyrie Antonio , Lejay Anne , Chakfé Nabil
Published: May 2024

Vascular calcifications in aorto-iliac arteries are emerging as crucial risk factors for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) with profound clinical implications. This systematic review, following PRISMA guidelines, investigated methodologies for measuring these calcifications and explored their correlation with CVDs and clinical outcomes. Out of 698 publications, 11 studies met the inclusion criteria. In total, 7 studies utilized manual methods, while 4 studies utilized automated technologies, including artificial intelligence and deep learning for image analyses. Age, systolic blood pressure, serum calcium, and lipoprotein(a) levels were found to be independent risk factors for aortic calcification. Mortality from CVDs was correlated with abdominal aorta calcification. Patients requiring reintervention after endovascular recanalization exhibited a significantly higher volume of calcification in their iliac arteries. Conclusions: This review reveals a diverse landscape of measurement methods for aorto-iliac calcifications; however, they lack a standardized reproducibility assessment. Automatic methods employing artificial intelligence appear to offer broader applicability and are less time-consuming. Assessment of calcium scoring could be routinely employed during preoperative workups for risk stratification and detailed surgical planning. Additionally, its correlation with clinical outcomes could be useful in predicting the risk of reinterventions and amputations.
Novel Insights into Postoperative Surveillance in Resected Pancreatic Cystic Neoplasms—A Review
Authors: Balaban Daniel Vasile , Coman Laura-Ioana , Balaban Marina , Costache Raluca Simona , Jinga Mariana
Published: May 2024

Pancreatic cystic lesions (PCL) are frequently encountered in clinical practice and some are referred to surgery due to their neoplastic risk or malignant transformation. The management of PCL involves complex decision-making, with postoperative surveillance being a key component for long-term outcomes, due to the potential for recurrence and postoperative morbidity. Unfortunately, the follow-up of resected patients is far from being optimal and there is a lack of consensus on recommendations with regard to timing and methods of surveillance. Here, we summarize the current knowledge on the postoperative surveillance of neoplastic pancreatic cysts, focusing on the mechanisms and risk factors for recurrence, the recurrence rates according to the initial indication for surgery, the final result of the surgical specimen and neoplastic risk in the remaining pancreas, as well as the postsurgical morbidity comprising pancreatic exocrine insufficiency, metabolic dysfunction and diabetes after resection, according to the type of surgery performed. We analyze postsurgical recurrence rates and morbidity profiles, as influenced by different surgical techniques, to better delineate at-risk patients, and highlight the need for tailored surveillance strategies adapted to preoperative and operative factors with an impact on outcomes.
AM-MSFF: A Pest Recognition Network Based on Attention Mechanism and Multi-Scale Feature Fusion
Authors: Zhang Meng , Yang Wenzhong , Chen Danny , Fu Chenghao , Wei Fuyuan
Published: May 2024

Traditional methods for pest recognition have certain limitations in addressing the challenges posed by diverse pest species, varying sizes, diverse morphologies, and complex field backgrounds, resulting in a lower recognition accuracy. To overcome these limitations, this paper proposes a novel pest recognition method based on attention mechanism and multi-scale feature fusion (AM-MSFF). By combining the advantages of attention mechanism and multi-scale feature fusion, this method significantly improves the accuracy of pest recognition. Firstly, we introduce the relation-aware global attention (RGA) module to adaptively adjust the feature weights of each position, thereby focusing more on the regions relevant to pests and reducing the background interference. Then, we propose the multi-scale feature fusion (MSFF) module to fuse feature maps from different scales, which better captures the subtle differences and the overall shape features in pest images. Moreover, we introduce generalized-mean pooling (GeMP) to more accurately extract feature information from pest images and better distinguish different pest categories. In terms of the loss function, this study proposes an improved focal loss (FL), known as balanced focal loss (BFL), as a replacement for cross-entropy loss. This improvement aims to address the common issue of class imbalance in pest datasets, thereby enhancing the recognition accuracy of pest identification models. To evaluate the performance of the AM-MSFF model, we conduct experiments on two publicly available pest datasets (IP102 and D0). Extensive experiments demonstrate that our proposed AM-MSFF outperforms most state-of-the-art methods. On the IP102 dataset, the accuracy reaches 72.64%, while on the D0 dataset, it reaches 99.05%.
Research on NaCl-KCl High-Temperature Thermal Storage Composite Phase Change Material Based on Modified Blast Furnace Slag
Authors: Zhang Gai , Cui Hui , Hu Xuecheng , Qu Anchao , Peng Hao , Peng Xiaotian
Published: May 2024

The high-temperature composite phase change materials (HCPCMs) were prepared from solid waste blast furnace slag (BFS) and NaCl-KCl binary eutectic salt to achieve efficient and cost-effective utilization. To ensure good chemical compatibility with chlorine salt, modifier fly ash (FA) was incorporated and subjected to high-temperature treatment for the processing of industrial solid waste BFS, which possesses a complex chemical composition. The HCPCMs were synthesized through a three-step process involving static melting, solid waste modification, and mixing–cold pressing–sintering. Then, the influence of the modification method and the amount of SiC thermal conductivity reinforced material on chemical compatibility and thermodynamic performance was explored. The results demonstrate that the predominant phase of the modified solid waste is Ca2Al2SiO7, which exhibits excellent chemical compatibility with chlorine salt. HCPCMs containing less than 50 wt.% chloride content exhibit good morphological stability without any cracks, with a melting temperature of 661.76 °C and an enthalpy value of 108.73 J/g. Even after undergoing 60 thermal cycles, they maintain good chemical compatibility, with leakage rates for melting and solidification enthalpies being only 6.3% and 0.23%, respectively. The equilibrium was achieved when 40 wt.% of chloride salt was encapsulated upon the addition of 10% of SiC, and the incorporation of SiC resulted in an enhancement of thermal conductivity for HCPCMs to 2.959 W/(m·K) at room temperature and 2.400 W/(m·K) at 200 °C, with an average increase of about 2 times. The cost of the prepared HCPCMs experienced a significant reduction of 81.3%, demonstrating favorable economic performance and promising prospects for application. The research findings presented in this article can offer significant insights into the efficient utilization of solid waste.
Effects of CO2 Geosequestration on Opalinus Clay
Authors: Asim Taimoor , Hawez Haval Kukha
Published: May 2024

CO2 geosequestration is an important contributor to United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 13, i.e., Climate Action, which states a global Net-Zero CO2 emissions by 2050. A potential impact of CO2 geosequestration in depleted oil and gas reservoirs is the variations in induced pressure across the caprocks, which can lead to significant local variations in CO2 saturation. A detailed understanding of the relationship between the pressure gradient across the caprock and local CO2 concentration is of utmost importance for assessing the potential of CO2 geosequestration. Achieving this through experimental techniques is extremely difficult, and thus, we employ a coupled Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and Finite Element Method (FEM) based solver to mimic sub-critical CO2 injection in Opalinus Clay under various pressure gradients across the sample. The geomechanical and multiphase flow modelling utilising Darcy Law helps evaluate local variations in CO2 concentration in Opalinus Clay. Well-validated numerical results indicate favourable sub-critical CO2 geosequestration under a positive pressure gradient across Opalinus Clay. In the absence of a positive pressure gradient, a peak CO2 concentration of 5% has been recorded, which increases substantially (above 90%) as the pressure gradient across the sample increases.
Atomistic Details of Methyl Linoleate Pyrolysis: Direct Molecular Dynamics Simulation of Converting Biodiesel to Petroleum Products
Authors: Bakker Michael J. , Siebert Matthew R.
Published: May 2024

Dependence on petroleum and petrochemical products is unsustainable; it is both a finite resource and an environmental hazard. Biodiesel has many attractive qualities, including a sustainable feedstock; however, it has its complications. The pyrolysis (a process already in common use in the petroleum industry) of biodiesel has demonstrated the formation of smaller hydrocarbons comprising many petrochemical products but experiments suffer from difficulty quantifying the myriad reaction pathways followed and products formed. A computational simulation of pyrolysis using “ab initio molecular dynamics” offers atomic-level detail of the reaction pathways and products formed. Herein, the most prevalent fatty-acid ester (methyl linoleate) from the most prevalent feedstock for biodiesel in the United States (soybean oil) is studied. Temperature acceleration within the atom-centered density matrix propagation formalism (Car–Parrinello) utilizing the D3-M06-2X/6-31+G(d,p) model chemistry is used to compose an ensemble of trajectories. The results are grounded in comparison to experimental studies through agreement in the following: (1) the extent of reactivity (40% in the experimental and 36.1% in this work), (2) the homology of hydrocarbon products formed (wt % of C6–C10 products), and (3) the CO/CO2 product ratio. Deoxygenation pathways are critically analyzed (as the presence of oxygen in biodiesel represents a disadvantage in its current use). Within this ensemble, deoxygenation was found to proceed through two subclasses: (1) spontaneous deoxygenation, following one of four possible pathways; or (2) induced deoxygenation, following one of three possible pathways.
Overview of Isolated Bidirectional DC–DC Converter Topology and Switching Strategies for Electric Vehicle Applications
Authors: Wang Zhenkun , Su Xianjin , Zeng Nianyin , Jiang Jiahui
Published: May 2024

Isolated bidirectional DC–DC converters are becoming increasingly important in various applications, particularly in the electric vehicle sector, due to their ability to achieve bidirectional power flow and their safety features. This paper aims to review the switch strategies and topologies of isolated bidirectional DC–DC converters, with a specific focus on their applications in the field of electric vehicles. From the perspective of topology, PWM-type isolated bidirectional DC–DC converters, dual active bridge converters, and resonant-type isolated bidirectional DC–DC converters constitute the three main categories of these converters. The paper further examines the traditional switch strategies of these converters and discusses how specific switch technologies, such as single-phase shift, expanding-phase shift, double-phase shift, and triple-phase shift, can enhance the overall performance of isolated bidirectional DC–DC converters. The paper meticulously examines the characteristics of each topology and control scheme, as well as their typical use cases in practical applications. Particularly, the paper delves into the applications of isolated bidirectional DC–DC converters in the electric vehicle sector and draws conclusions regarding their potential and trends in future electric vehicle technology.
A Method for Determining Target Areas of Hot Dry Rock Resources: A Case Study in Continental China
Authors: Wang Yaqi , Wang Yibo , Jiang Guangzheng , Hu Jie , Shi Yizuo , Wang Shejiao , Hu Shengbiao
Published: May 2024

Geothermal resources have been recognized as important sources of clean renewable energy. The exploration, development, and utilization of geothermal resources, especially hot dry rock (HDR) resources, are highly important for achieving peak carbon and carbon neutrality. However, there is no comprehensive evaluation method for determining HDR target areas, and the evaluation scale and application disciplines are relatively simplistic. In this paper, we sought to optimize the identification of HDR target areas through a multiscale and multidisciplinary method and formed a set of generalized and demonstrative processes to guide the exploration of HDR resources. Through practical application to the Gonghe Basin and the Zhangzhou Basin, it was found that the comprehensive geothermal conditions of the Gonghe Basin are superior to those of the Zhangzhou Basin, and the geothermal reservoir depth, geothermal reservoir temperature, geothermal gradient, and heat flow are the four most important factors affecting hot dry rock geothermal resources. Using this method, the prioritization of target areas changes from a qualitative study to a quantitative and semiquantitative study, increasing the specificity and reliability of the decision-making process.
MetaSSI: A Framework for Personal Data Protection, Enhanced Cybersecurity and Privacy in Metaverse Virtual Reality Platforms
Authors: Fiaz Faisal , Sajjad Syed Muhammad , Iqbal Zafar , Yousaf Muhammad , Muhammad Zia
Published: May 2024

The Metaverse brings together components of parallel processing computing platforms, the digital development of physical systems, cutting-edge machine learning, and virtual identity to uncover a fully digitalized environment with equal properties to the real world. It possesses more rigorous requirements for connection, including safe access and data privacy, which are necessary with the advent of Metaverse technology. Traditional, centralized, and network-centered solutions fail to provide a resilient identity management solution. There are multifaceted security and privacy issues that hinder the secure adoption of this game-changing technology in contemporary cyberspace. Moreover, there is a need to dedicate efforts towards a secure-by-design Metaverse that protects the confidentiality, integrity, and privacy of the personally identifiable information (PII) of users. In this research paper, we propose a logical substitute for established centralized identity management systems in compliance with the complexity of the Metaverse. This research proposes a sustainable Self-Sovereign Identity (SSI), a fully decentralized identity management system to mitigate PII leaks and corresponding cyber threats on all multiverse platforms. The principle of the proposed framework ensures that the users are the only custodians and proprietors of their own identities. In addition, this article provides a comprehensive approach to the implementation of the SSI principles to increase interoperability and trustworthiness in the Metaverse. Finally, the proposed framework is validated using mathematical modeling and proved to be stringent and resilient against modern-day cyber attacks targeting Metaverse platforms.
Invariant Equilibrium in Discontinuous Bayesian Games
Authors: Allison Blake A. , Lepore Jason J.
Published: May 2024

We provide sufficient conditions on the primitives of a class of discontinuous Bayesian games such that all games in the class share equilibria. If a Bayesian game in the class also satisfies a weak efficiency condition, then we show its normal form is better-reply secure. The invariance property then provides an existence result for all Bayesian games in the class. Results are shown for both pure strategy and behavioral strategy equilibrium. We illustrate the application of the results with an example of a class of contests with bid caps.
Therapeutic Effects of Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Oxidant Nutritional Supplementation in Retinal Ischemic Diseases
Authors: Lee Deokho , Fu Zhongjie , Hellstrom Ann , Smith Lois E. H.
Published: May 2024

Appropriate nutrients are essential for cellular function. Dietary components can alter the risk of systemic metabolic diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes, and obesity, and can also affect retinal diseases, including age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma. Dietary nutrients have been assessed for the prevention or treatment of retinal ischemic diseases and the diseases of aging. In this article, we review clinical and experimental evidence concerning the potential of some nutritional supplements to prevent or treat retinal ischemic diseases and provide further insights into the therapeutic effects of nutritional supplementation on retinopathies. We will review the roles of nutrients in preventing or protecting against retinal ischemic diseases.
Accumulation of Alpha-Synuclein and Increase in the Inflammatory Response in the substantia nigra, Jejunum, and Colon in a Model of O3 Pollution in Rats
Authors: Valdés-Fuentes Marlen , Rodríguez-Martínez Erika , Rivas-Arancibia Selva
Published: May 2024

This work aimed to study the effect of repeated exposure to low doses of ozone on alpha-synuclein and the inflammatory response in the substantia nigra, jejunum, and colon. Seventy-two male Wistar rats were divided into six groups. Each group received one of the following treatments: The control group was exposed to air. The ozone groups were exposed for 7, 15, 30, 60, and 90 days for 0.25 ppm for four hours daily. Afterward, they were anesthetized, and their tissues were extracted and processed using Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and qPCR. The results indicated a significant increase in alpha-synuclein in the substantia nigra and jejunum from 7 to 60 days of exposure and an increase in NFκB from 7 to 90 days in the substantia nigra, while in the jejunum, a significant increase was observed at 7 and 15 days and a decrease at 60 and 90 days for the colon. Interleukin IL-17 showed an increase at 90 days in the substantia nigra in the jejunum and increases at 30 days and in the colon at 15 and 90 days. Exposure to ozone increases the presence of alpha-synuclein and induces the loss of regulation of the inflammatory response, which contributes significantly to degenerative processes.
AP2XII-1 and AP2XI-2 Suppress Schizogony Gene Expression in Toxoplasma gondii
Authors: Jiang Yucong , Shi Yuehong , Xue Yingying , Hu Dandan , Song Xingju
Published: May 2024

Toxoplasma gondii is an intracellular parasite that is important in medicine and veterinary science and undergoes distinct developmental transitions in its intermediate and definitive hosts. The switch between stages of T. gondii is meticulously regulated by a variety of factors. Previous studies have explored the role of the microrchidia (MORC) protein complex as a transcriptional suppressor of sexual commitment. By utilizing immunoprecipitation and mass spectrometry, constituents of this protein complex have been identified, including MORC, Histone Deacetylase 3 (HDAC3), and several ApiAP2 transcription factors. Conditional knockout of MORC or inhibition of HDAC3 results in upregulation of a set of genes associated with schizogony and sexual stages in T. gondii tachyzoites. Here, our focus extends to two primary ApiAP2s (AP2XII-1 and AP2XI-2), demonstrating their significant impact on the fitness of asexual tachyzoites and their target genes. Notably, the targeted disruption of AP2XII-1 and AP2XI-2 resulted in a profound alteration in merozoite-specific genes targeted by the MORC–HDAC3 complex. Additionally, considerable overlap was observed in downstream gene profiles between AP2XII-1 and AP2XI-2, with AP2XII-1 specifically binding to a subset of ApiAP2 transcription factors, including AP2XI-2. These findings reveal an intricate cascade of ApiAP2 regulatory networks involved in T. gondii schizogony development, orchestrated by AP2XII-1 and AP2XI-2. This study provides valuable insights into the transcriptional regulation of T. gondii growth and development, shedding light on the intricate life cycle of this parasitic pathogen.