bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Link Prediction in Complex Networks Using Average Centrality-Based Similarity Score
Authors: Nandini Y. V. , Lakshmi T. Jaya , Enduri Murali Krishna , Sharma Hemlata
Published: May 2024

Link prediction plays a crucial role in identifying future connections within complex networks, facilitating the analysis of network evolution across various domains such as biological networks, social networks, recommender systems, and more. Researchers have proposed various centrality measures, such as degree, clustering coefficient, betweenness, and closeness centralities, to compute similarity scores for predicting links in these networks. These centrality measures leverage both the local and global information of nodes within the network. In this study, we present a novel approach to link prediction using similarity score by utilizing average centrality measures based on local and global centralities, namely Similarity based on Average Degree (SACD), Similarity based on Average Betweenness (SACB), Similarity based on Average Closeness (SACC), and Similarity based on Average Clustering Coefficient (SACCC). Our approach involved determining centrality scores for each node, calculating the average centrality for the entire graph, and deriving similarity scores through common neighbors. We then applied centrality scores to these common neighbors and identified nodes with above average centrality. To evaluate our approach, we compared proposed measures with existing local similarity-based link prediction measures, including common neighbors, the Jaccard coefficient, Adamic–Adar, resource allocation, preferential attachment, as well as recent measures like common neighbor and the Centrality-based Parameterized Algorithm (CCPA), and keyword network link prediction (KNLP). We conducted experiments on four real-world datasets. The proposed similarity scores based on average centralities demonstrate significant improvements. We observed an average enhancement of 24% in terms of Area Under the Receiver Operating Characteristic (AUROC) compared to existing local similarity measures, and a 31% improvement over recent measures. Furthermore, we witnessed an average improvement of 49% and 51% in the Area Under Precision-Recall (AUPR) compared to existing and recent measures. Our comprehensive experiments highlight the superior performance of the proposed method.
Immunity-Empowered Collaboration Security Protection for Mega Smart Cities
Authors: Lan Kun , Li Jianhua , Huang Wenkai , Li Gaolei
Published: May 2024

The cyberphysical systems of smart cities are facing increasingly severe attack situations, and traditional separate protection methods are difficult to effectively respond to. It is urgent to coordinate public safety and cybersecurity protection. However, the integration of the two faces many challenges and is a very promising research field. The aim of this study is to investigate technical approaches for the synergy between public safety and cybersecurity. This paper proposes a smart city safety protection model inspired by the human immune mechanism. It was found that through a three-line defense architecture similar to the human immune mechanism, and with the help of certain algorithms and functional middleware modules, public safety and cybersecurity protection components can be dynamically combined to achieve collaboration. This work has verified through experiments a valuable path to effectively resist complicated attack threats intertwined with public safety and cybersecurity factors.
Exploring the Potential of Large Language Models in Radiological Imaging Systems: Improving User Interface Design and Functional Capabilities
Authors: Zhang Luyao , Shu Jianhua , Hu Jili , Li Fangfang , He Junjun , Wang Peng , Shen Yiqing
Published: May 2024

Large language models (LLMs) have demonstrated remarkable capabilities in natural language processing tasks, including conversation, in-context learning, reasoning, and code generation. This paper explores the potential application of LLMs in radiological information systems (RIS) and assesses the impact of integrating LLMs on RIS development and human–computer interaction. We present ChatUI-RIS, a prototype chat-based user interface that leverages LLM capabilities to enhance RIS functionality and user experience. Through an exploratory study involving 26 medical students, we investigate the efficacy of natural language dialogue for learning and operating RIS. Our findings suggest that LLM integration via a chat interface can significantly improve operational efficiency, reduce learning time, and facilitate rapid expansion of RIS capabilities. By interacting with ChatUI-RIS using natural language instructions, medical students can access and retrieve radiology information in a conversational manner. The LLM-powered chat interface not only streamlines user interactions, but also enables more intuitive and efficient navigation of complex RIS functionalities. Furthermore, the natural language processing capabilities of LLMs can be harnessed to automatically generate code snippets and database queries, accelerating RIS development and customization. Preliminary observations indicate that integrating LLMs in RIS has the potential to revolutionize user interface design, enhance system capabilities, and ultimately improve the overall user experience for radiologists and medical professionals.
Evaluation of Different Filtering Methods Devoted to Magnetometer Data Denoising
Authors: Pereira Tiago , Santos Victor , Gameiro Tiago , Viegas Carlos , Ferreira Nuno
Published: May 2024

In this article, we describe a performance comparison conducted between several digital filters intended to mitigate the intrinsic noise observed in magnetometers. The considered filters were used to smooth the control signals derived from the magnetometers, which were present in an autonomous forestry machine. Three moving average FIR filters, based on rectangular Bartlett and Hanning windows, and an exponential moving average IIR filter were selected and analyzed. The trade-off between the noise reduction factor and the latency of the proposed filters was also investigated, taking into account the crucial importance of latency on real-time applications and control algorithms. Thus, a maximum latency value was used in the filter design procedure instead of the usual filter order. The experimental results and simulations show that the linear decay moving average (LDMA) and the raised cosine moving average (RCMA) filters outperformed the simple moving average (SMA) and the exponential moving average (EMA) in terms of noise reduction, for a fixed latency value, allowing a more accurate heading angle calculation and position control mechanism for autonomous and unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs).
Research on Fabric Defect Detection Algorithm Based on Improved YOLOv8n Algorithm
Authors: Mei Shunqi , Shi Yishan , Gao Heng , Tang Li
Published: May 2024

In the process of fabric production, various types of defects affect the quality of a fabric. However, due to the wide variety of fabric defects, the complexity of fabric textures, and the concealment of small target defects, current fabric defect detection algorithms suffer from issues such as having a slow detection speed, low detection accuracy, and a low recognition rate of small target defects. Therefore, developing an efficient and accurate fabric defect detection system has become an urgent problem that needs to be addressed in the textile industry. Addressing the aforementioned issues, this paper proposes an improved YOLOv8n-LAW algorithm based on the YOLOv8n algorithm. First, LSKNet attention mechanisms are added to both ends of the C2f module in the backbone network to provide a broader context area, enhancing the algorithm’s feature extraction capability. Next, the PAN-FPN structure of the backbone network is replaced by the AFPN structure, so that the different levels of features of the defects are closer to the semantic information in the progressive fusion. Finally, the CIoU loss is replaced with the WIoU v3 loss, allowing the model to dynamically adjust gradient gains based on the features of fabric defects, effectively focusing on distinguishing between defective and non-defective regions. The experimental results show that the improved YOLOv8n-LAW algorithm achieved an accuracy of 97.4% and a detection speed of 46 frames per second, while effectively increasing the recognition rate of small target defects.
Numerical Simulation of Chemical Reactions’ Influence on Convective Heat Transfer in Hydrothermal Circulation Reaction Zones
Authors: Luo Yina , Feng Yuebo , Zhang Da , Li Yan
Published: May 2024

Chemical reactions, mineral diffusion, and deposition are pivotal in understanding the mechanisms of mineral deposition and the formation of seafloor sulfides in the hydrothermal circulation process. To understand the formation process of anhydrite in submarine hydrothermal systems, a computational model that combined component transport and chemical reactions was established and simulated using the mass transport model. The deposition rate of calcium sulfate was defined, and the effects of factors such as porosity, ion concentration, and inflow velocity on the temperature field in the reaction zone were thoroughly investigated. The distribution of temperature, porosity, and velocity during the reaction process was obtained, allowing for the identification of the chemical reaction patterns of certain ions in the early stages of hydrothermal activity. The simulation revealed the occurrence of biochemical reactions between two types of ions, leading to their deposition on the solid framework of a porous medium. With the increase in inflow velocity and solute concentration, the average porosities of the porous medium decreased by 0.495% and 0.468%, respectively, which consequently altered the structure of the rock. Such findings contribute to the inference of formation and extinction mechanisms of seafloor crusts and hydrothermal chimneys.
Collaborative Operation Optimization Scheduling Strategy of Electric Vehicle and Steel Plant Considering V2G
Authors: Pan Weiqi , Zou Bokang , Li Fengtao , Luo Yifu , Chen Qirui , Zhang Yuanshi , Li Yang
Published: May 2024

With the shortage of fossil fuels and the increasingly serious problem of environmental pollution, low-carbon industrial production technology has become an effective way to reduce industrial carbon emissions. Electrified steel plants based on electronic arc furnaces (EAF) can reduce most carbon emissions compared with traditional steel production methods, but the production steps have fixed electricity consumption behavior, and impact loads are easily generated in the production process, which has an impact on the stability of the power system. EV has the characteristics of a mobile energy storage unit. When a large number of EVs are connected to the power grid, they can be regarded as distributed energy storage units with scheduling flexibility. Through the orderly scheduling of EVs, the spatial–temporal transfer of EV charging and discharging load can be realized. Therefore, the EV situated in the steel plant’s distribution network node has the capacity to be utilized by providing peak shaving and valley filling services for the steel production load. This study proposes an operation optimization scheduling method for EVs and steel plants. Taking the lowest overall operating cost as the objective, an optimal scheduling model considering EVs operation, steel plant, and distributed generator is established. Based on the IEEE-33 node distribution network model considering distributed generators, the proposed model is simulated and analyzed, and the effectiveness of the EV steel plant operation optimization scheduling strategy is investigated.
Power Extraction Performance by a Hybrid Non-Sinusoidal Pitching Motion of an Oscillating Energy Harvester
Authors: Saleh Suleiman , Sohn Chang-Hyun
Published: May 2024

This study proposes a hybrid pitching motion for oscillating flat plates aimed at augmenting the energy extraction efficiency of an energy harvester. The proposed hybrid pitching motion, within the first half cycle, integrates a non-sinusoidal movement starting at t/T = 0 and progressing to t/T = 0.25, with a sinusoidal movement initiating after t/T > 0.25 and continuing to t/T = 0.5. The second half of the cycle is symmetric to the first half but in the opposite direction. The calculated results show that the proposed hybrid pitching motion outperforms both the sinusoidal and the non-sinusoidal motions. The hybrid pitching motion merges the merits of both the sinusoidal and non-sinusoidal motions to optimize pitch angle variation. This integration is pivotal for enhancing the overall power output performance of an oscillating energy harvester characterized by momentum change that enhances the orientation of the heaving movement, smoother motion transitions, and consistent energy harvesting. The power generation is obtained at wing pitch angles of 55°, 65°, 70°, 75°, and 80° during a hybrid pitching motion. The proposed hybrid pitching motion, set at a pitch angle of 70°, achieves a maximum power output that exceeds the oscillating flat plate using a sinusoidal pitching motion by 16.0% at the same angle.
Process-Driven Layout Optimization of a Portable Hybrid Manufacturing Robotic Cell Structure
Authors: Bikas Harry , Manitaras Dimitrios , Souflas Thanassis , Stavropoulos Panagiotis
Published: May 2024

Hybrid manufacturing combines manufacturing processes (typically additive manufacturing and machining) exploiting the benefits of each and enabling repair scenarios. Such an approach can be integrated with a robot, and if made portable, can form a flexible machine tool that can be easily transported anywhere to enable repairs in the field. However, the design of the load-bearing structure determines its transportability, and its stiffness plays a crucial functional role under dynamic loads and affects the product quality. Finding the right balance between weight and stiffness requires accurate boundary conditions and an effective design. In this work, a method is proposed towards process-driven optimization of a portable manufacturing cell structure. The dynamic cutting forces are determined through a machining process model and, via a simplified model of the robot arm, the forces at the base of the robot are estimated. Since the frame consists of beams, the layout optimization method is applied, using the estimated process forces as boundary conditions to optimize the arrangement of beams. The proposed method achieved 0.05 mm displacement in the load-bearing structure under milling and an acceptable accuracy of the position of a hole’s center during drilling, while the overall weight reduced by 17.6%.
The Impact of Granting of Forest Certificates on Farmers’ Income—Intermediation Effects Based on Forestland Lease
Authors: Li Lishan , Liu Meifang , Yang Yuchao , Xie Fangting , Liu Xiaojin
Published: May 2024

This study examines the impact of granting forest certificates on farmer income. Linear regression and mediating effect models were used to analyze repeated survey data of 505 households in 50 villages in Jiangxi Province in 2017 and 2018. We examined the impacts of granting forest certificates on forestry income and the total income of rural households, taking into account forestland leases. We draw the following conclusions: first, granting forest certificates has a significant positive effect on total household income but not on forestry income. Second, farmers prefer forestland leasing in their behavior. Granting forest certificates can promote forestland lease out, but the effect on forestland lease in is not obvious. Third, granting forest certificates contributes to the increase in total household income through forestland lease out. Our analysis suggests that the government should increase the proportion of granted forest certificates and improve the policies related to the lease of forestland so as to realize an increase in farmer income.
The Pivotal Role of Microscopy in Unravelling the Nature of Microbial Deterioration of Waterlogged Wood: A Review
Authors: Singh Adya P. , Kim Jong Sik , Möller Ralf , Chavan Ramesh R. , Kim Yoon Soo
Published: May 2024

This review focuses on the pivotal role microscopy has played in diagnosing the type(s) of microbial attacks present in waterlogged ancient wooden objects, and to understand the nature and extent of deterioration of such objects. The microscopic journey began with the application of light microscopy (LM) to examine the deterioration of waterlogged woods, notably foundation piles supporting historic buildings, progressing into the use of high-resolution imaging tools (SEM and TEM) and techniques. Although bacteria were implicated in the deterioration of foundation piles, confirmation that bacteria can indeed degrade wood in its native state came when decaying wood from natural environments was examined using electron microscopy, particularly TEM, which enabled bacterial association with cell wall regions undergoing degradation to be clearly resolved. The information base has been a catalyst, stimulating numerous studies in the past three decades or so to understand the nature of microbial degradation of waterlogged archaeological wood more precisely, combining LM, SEM, and TEM with high-resolution chemical analytical methods, including chemical microscopy. The emerging information is aiding targeted developments towards a more effective conservation of ancient wooden objects as they begin to be uncovered from burial and waterlogging environments.
Advances in Endangered Plant Research: Ammopiptanthus’s Responses to Biotic and Abiotic Stressors
Authors: Wang Shuyao , Liang Shenghua , Liu Yahui , Chen Yingying
Published: May 2024

Ammopiptanthus, a unique evergreen broadleaf shrub endemic to the desert regions of Northwest China, exhibits a remarkable capacity for aeolian erosion control and dune stabilization. Attributed to its robust tolerance in terms of xerotolerance, halophytic adaptations, extreme thermotolerance, resistance to biotic and abiotic degradation and its defensive strategies against herbivory, Ammopiptanthus has emerged as an exemplary model organism for the study of plant resilience to diverse environmental stressors. Current research on Ammopiptanthus is scattered, lacking a systematic review, which poses a disadvantage for subsequent in-depth studies and the effective conservation of this endangered resource. In recent years, natural Ammopiptanthus communities have been severely disrupted, and the species’ natural range is rapidly shrinking. Here, this review summarizes the signaling pathways in the Ammopiptanthus response to biotic stress (especially the early signaling events), as well as the research advances in the resistance interactions between biotic and abiotic stresses. Then, the synergistic effects of multiple environmental pressures on Ammopiptanthus could be established, which may provide guidance for further studies on the resistance mechanism of Ammopiptanthus and be beneficial to its natural community protection and reconstruction.
Fat Embolism Syndrome in a Patient with Osteogenesis Imperfecta: A Case Report
Authors: Benevento Marcello , Carravetta Francesco , Caterino Cristina , Nicolì Simona , Ambrosi Laura , Ferorelli Davide , Solarino Biagio
Published: May 2024

Fat embolism syndrome (FES) can be challenging to diagnose by forensic pathologists. For the diagnosis of FES, there is no benchmark test. Postmortem diagnosis requires a full autopsy and specific ancillary examination. However, the high variability in the clinical presentation of FES represents a relevant issue, and there is no consensus on the postmortem assessment. This is the case of a 33-year-old man who died of FES one week after a car accident. He suffered multiple fractures, but was hemodynamically stable and showed no neurological changes. The patient died a few days after hospital discharge. Additionally, he had osteogenesis imperfecta type III, a genetic disorder associated with bone fragility. To the best of our knowledge, no study has assessed whether and how osteogenesis imperfecta contributes to the onset of FES. Despite the heterogeneous manifestations of FES, the present case met many of the proposed clinical and histological diagnostic criteria. Therefore, we briefly review FES diagnostic criteria, show the postmortem diagnostic workup, and discuss the hypothetical link between osteogenesis imperfecta and FES.
The Role of WO3 Nanoparticles on the Properties of Gelatin Films
Authors: Rubini Katia , Menichetti Arianna , Cassani Maria Cristina , Montalti Marco , Bigi Adriana , Boanini Elisa
Published: May 2024

Gelatin films are very versatile materials whose properties can be tuned through functionalization with different systems. This work investigates the influence of WO3 nanoparticles on the swelling, barrier, mechanical, and photochromic properties of gelatin films. To this purpose, polyvinylpirrolidone (PVP)-stabilized WO3 nanoparticles were loaded on gelatin films at two different pH values, namely, 4 and 7. The values of swelling and solubility of functionalized films displayed a reduction of around 50% in comparison to those of pristine, unloaded films. In agreement, WO3 nanoparticles provoked a significant decrease in water vapor permeability, whereas the decrease in the values of elastic modulus (from about 2.0 to 0.7 MPa) and stress at break (from about 2.5 to 1.4 MPa) can be ascribed to the discontinuity created by the nanoparticles inside the films. The results of differential scanning calorimetry and X-ray diffraction analysis suggest that interaction of PVP with gelatin reduce gelatin renaturation. No significant differences were found between the samples prepared at pH 4 and 7, whereas crosslinking with glutaraldehyde greatly influenced the properties of gelatin films. Moreover, the incorporation of WO3 nanoparticles in gelatin films, especially in the absence of glutaraldehyde, conferred excellent photochromic properties, inducing the appearance of an intense blue color after a few seconds of light irradiation and providing good resistance to several irradiation cycles.
An Unclassified Deletion Involving the Proximal Short Arm of Chromosome 10: A New Syndrome?
Authors: Santoro Graziano , Incoronato Mariarosaria , Spagnoli Edoardo , Gabbiato Ilaria , Contini Simona , Piovan Marta , Ferrari Maurizio , Lapucci Cristina , Zuccarello Daniela
Published: May 2024

To date, only 13 studies have described patients with large overlapping deletions of 10p11.2-p12. These individuals shared a common phenotype characterized by intellectual disability, developmental delay, distinct facial dysmorphic features, abnormal behaviour, visual impairment, cardiac malformation, and cryptorchidism in males. Molecular cytogenetic analysis revealed that the deletion in this chromosomal region shares a common smallest region of overlap (SRO) of 80 kb, which contains only the WAC gene (WW-domain-containing adaptor with coiled coil). In this clinical case report, we report a 5-year-old girl, born from non-consanguineous parents, with a 10p11.22p11.21 microdeletion. She presents clinical features that overlap with other patients described in the literature, such as dysmorphic traits, speech delay, and behavioural abnormalities (hyperactivity), even though the WAC gene is not involved in the microdeletion. Our results are the first to highlight that the deletion described here represents a contiguous gene syndrome that is enough to explain the distinct phenotype but partially overlaps with the previous cases reported in the literature, even though the same genes are not involved. In particular, in this study, we speculate about the role of the WAC gene that seems to be associated with normal motor development. In fact, we found that our patient is the only one described in the literature with a large deletion in the 10p11.22p11.21 region without the involvement of the WAC gene deletion, and, interestingly, the patient did not have motor delay.
Creating Family-Centred Support for Preschoolers with Developmental Disabilities in Low-Income Countries: A Rapid Review to Guide Practitioners
Authors: McConkey Roy
Published: May 2024

Preschoolers with disabilities and their caregivers have been neglected in health and social service provision in most low-income countries and arguably also in low-resourced areas of more affluent nations. Yet as this rapid review of the published literature identifies, there are low-cost, evidence-based strategies to address their needs that can be implemented in communities by local people. Five key features of the necessary supports are examined. First, the leadership functions required to create and implement the support services. Second, the family-centred, home-based support provided to caregivers and the personnel undertaking this form of support. Third, providing opportunities for peer support to flourish and encouraging the formation of advocacy groups across families. Fourth, mobilizing the support of significant groups within the community: notably, traditional healers and leaders, health services and poverty alleviation initiatives. Fifth, devising ways in which preschool educational opportunities can be offered to children as a prelude to their inclusion in primary schools. The review serves a further purpose. It provides an example of how public health researchers and academics could achieve more rapid implementation of evidence-based knowledge into existing and new support services through dissemination to community practitioners.
Exploring Mechanisms behind Migration’s Impact on Protein Intake of Left-Behind Household Members: A Panel Analysis from China
Authors: Pan Xueting , Huang Jiaqi
Published: May 2024

Malnutrition remains a critical global health challenge, especially in rural areas, where it significantly impacts the health and economic stability of households. This study explores (1) the relationship between labor migration and dietary protein intake in households remaining in economically disadvantaged rural regions and (2) the influence of remittance income, farm earnings, self-produced food, and changes in family size due to migration on their dietary protein. Panel data were collected through a three-wave household survey of 1368 rural households across six counties in the provinces of Guizhou, Yunnan, and Shaanxi during 2012, 2015, and 2018. Employing a two-way fixed effects model, we found that labor migration positively affects the protein consumption of families left behind. The mediated effects model indicated that decreases in family size had the most significant impact on protein intake, with a value of 8.714, accounting for 0.729 of the total effect; followed by the mediating effect through crop income, at 2.579, representing 0.216 of the total effect; and livestock income, at 0.772, contributing 0.073 of the total effect. However, the mediating effects of remittance income and self-production were found to be insignificant. In conclusion, our study found that migration improves protein intake primarily through increased crop and livestock production and decreased family size. These results highlight the critical role of family structure and farm productivity in enhancing the nutrition of families affected by labor migration, offering valuable insights for policymakers.
The Geospatial Crowd: Emerging Trends and Challenges in Crowdsourced Spatial Analytics
Authors: Alamri Sultan
Published: May 2024

Crowdsourced spatial analytics is a rapidly developing field that involves collecting and analyzing geographical data, utilizing the collective power of human observation. This paper explores the field of spatial data analytics and crowdsourcing and how recently developed tools, cloud-based GIS, and artificial intelligence (AI) are being applied in this domain. This paper examines and discusses cutting-edge technologies and case studies in different fields of spatial data analytics and crowdsourcing used in a wide range of industries and government departments such as urban planning, health, transportation, and environmental sustainability. Furthermore, by understanding the concerns associated with data quality and data privacy, this paper explores the potential of crowdsourced data while also examining the related problems. This study analyzes the obstacles and challenges related to “geospatial crowdsourcing”, identifying significant limitations and predicting future trends intended to overcome the related challenges.
Phytonanotherapy for the Treatment of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease
Authors: Nendouvhada Livhuwani P. , Sibuyi Nicole R. S. , Fadaka Adewale O. , Meyer Samantha , Madiehe Abram M. , Meyer Mervin , Gabuza Kwazikwakhe B.
Published: May 2024

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), previously known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, is a steatotic liver disease associated with metabolic syndrome (MetS), especially obesity, hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and hypertriglyceridemia. MASLD in 43–44% of patients can progress to metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), and 7–30% of these cases will progress to liver scarring (cirrhosis). To date, the mechanism of MASLD and its progression is not completely understood and there were no therapeutic strategies specifically tailored for MASLD/MASH until March 2024. The conventional antiobesity and antidiabetic pharmacological approaches used to reduce the progression of MASLD demonstrated favorable peripheral outcomes but insignificant effects on liver histology. Alternatively, phyto-synthesized metal-based nanoparticles (MNPs) are now being explored in the treatment of various liver diseases due to their unique bioactivities and reduced bystander effects. Although phytonanotherapy has not been explored in the clinical treatment of MASLD/MASH, MNPs such as gold NPs (AuNPs) and silver NPs (AgNPs) have been reported to improve metabolic processes by reducing blood glucose levels, body fat, and inflammation. Therefore, these actions suggest that MNPs can potentially be used in the treatment of MASLD/MASH and related metabolic diseases. Further studies are warranted to investigate the feasibility and efficacy of phytonanomedicine before clinical application.
Limb Girdle Muscular Dystrophy Type 2B (LGMD2B): Diagnosis and Therapeutic Possibilities
Authors: Poudel Bal Hari , Fletcher Sue , Wilton Steve D. , Aung-Htut May
Published: May 2024

Dysferlin is a large transmembrane protein involved in critical cellular processes including membrane repair and vesicle fusion. Mutations in the dysferlin gene (DYSF) can result in rare forms of muscular dystrophy; Miyoshi myopathy; limb girdle muscular dystrophy type 2B (LGMD2B); and distal myopathy. These conditions are collectively known as dysferlinopathies and are caused by more than 600 mutations that have been identified across the DYSF gene to date. In this review, we discuss the key molecular and clinical features of LGMD2B, the causative gene DYSF, and the associated dysferlin protein structure. We also provide an update on current approaches to LGMD2B diagnosis and advances in drug development, including splice switching antisense oligonucleotides. We give a brief update on clinical trials involving adeno-associated viral gene therapy and the current progress on CRISPR/Cas9 mediated therapy for LGMD2B, and then conclude by discussing the prospects of antisense oligomer-based intervention to treat selected mutations causing dysferlinopathies.
Complete Mitochondrial Genomes and Phylogenetic Analysis of Genus Henricia (Asteroidea: Spinulosida: Echinasteridae)
Authors: Alboasud Maria , Jeong Hoon , Lee Taekjun
Published: May 2024

The genus Henricia is known to have intraspecific morphological variations, making species identification difficult. Therefore, molecular phylogeny analysis based on genetic characteristics is valuable for species identification. We present complete mitochondrial genomic sequences of Henricia longispina aleutica, H. reniossa, and H. sanguinolenta for the first time in this study. This study will make a significant contribution to our understanding of Henricia species and its relationships within the class Asteroidea. Lengths of mitochondrial genomes of the three species are 16,217, 16,223, and 16,194 bp, respectively, with a circular form. These genomes contained 13 protein-coding genes, two ribosomal RNA genes, 22 transfer RNA genes, and a D-loop. The gene order and direction aligned with other asteroid species. Phylogenetic relationship analysis showed that our Henricia species were in a monophyletic clade with other Henricia species and in a large clade with species (Echinaster brasiliensis) from the same family. These findings provide valuable insight into understanding the phylogenetic relationships of species in the genus Henricia.
The Application of Rho Kinase Inhibitors in the Management of Glaucoma
Authors: Liu Li-Ching , Chen Yi-Hao , Lu Da-Wen
Published: May 2024

Glaucoma is a chronic neurodegenerative disease that poses a significant threat of irreversible blindness worldwide. Current treatments for glaucoma focus on reducing intraocular pressure (IOP), which is the only modifiable risk factor. Traditional anti-glaucomatous agents, including carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, beta-blockers, alpha-2 agonists, and prostaglandin analogs, work by either improving uveoscleral outflow or reducing aqueous humor production. Rho kinase (ROCK) inhibitors represent a novel class of anti-glaucomatous drugs that have emerged from bench to bedside in the past decade, offering multifunctional characteristics. Unlike conventional medications, ROCK inhibitors directly target the trabecular meshwork outflow pathway. This review aims to discuss the mechanism of ROCK inhibitors in reducing IOP, providing neuroprotection, and preventing fibrosis. We also highlight recent studies and clinical trials evaluating the efficacy and safety of ROCK inhibitors, compare them with other clinical anti-glaucomatous medications, and outline future prospects for ROCK inhibitors in glaucoma treatment.
Bowman–Birk Inhibitor Mutants of Soybean Generated by CRISPR-Cas9 Reveal Drastic Reductions in Trypsin and Chymotrypsin Inhibitor Activities
Authors: Kim Won-Seok , Gillman Jason D. , Kim Sunhyung , Liu Junqi , Janga Madhusudhana R. , Stupar Robert M. , Krishnan Hari B.
Published: May 2024

Despite the high quality of soybean protein, raw soybeans and soybean meal cannot be directly included in animal feed mixtures due to the presence of Kunitz (KTi) and Bowman–Birk protease inhibitors (BBis), which reduces animal productivity. Heat treatment can substantially inactivate trypsin and chymotrypsin inhibitors (BBis), but such treatment is energy-intensive, adds expense, and negatively impacts the quality of seed proteins. As an alternative approach, we have employed CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing to create mutations in BBi genes to drastically lower the protease inhibitor content in soybean seed. Agrobacterium-mediated transformation was used to generate several stable transgenic soybean events. These independent CRISPR/Cas9 events were examined in comparison to wild-type plants using Sanger sequencing, proteomic analysis, trypsin/chymotrypsin inhibitor activity assays, and qRT-PCR. Collectively, our results demonstrate the creation of an allelic series of loss-of-function mutations affecting the major BBi gene in soybean. Mutations in two of the highly expressed seed-specific BBi genes lead to substantial reductions in both trypsin and chymotrypsin inhibitor activities.
1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3 Suppresses UV-Induced Poly(ADP-Ribose) Levels in Primary Human Keratinocytes, as Detected by a Novel Whole-Cell ELISA
Authors: De Silva Warusavithana Gunawardena Manori , Sequeira Vanessa Bernadette , Yang Chen , Dixon Katie Marie , Holland Andrew J. A. , Mason Rebecca Sara , Rybchyn Mark Stephen
Published: May 2024

Photoprotective properties of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3) to reduce UV-induced DNA damage have been established in several studies. UV-induced DNA damage in skin such as single or double strand breaks is known to initiate several cellular mechanisms including activation of poly(ADP-ribose) (pADPr) polymerase-1 (PARP-1). DNA damage from UV also increases extracellular signal-related kinase (ERK) phosphorylation, which further increases PARP activity. PARP-1 functions by using cellular nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) to synthesise pADPr moieties and attach these to target proteins involved in DNA repair. Excessive PARP-1 activation following cellular stress such as UV irradiation may result in excessive levels of cellular pADPr. This can also have deleterious effects on cellular energy levels due to depletion of NAD+ to suboptimal levels. Since our previous work indicated that 1,25(OH)2D3 reduced UV-induced DNA damage in part through increased repair via increased energy availability, the current study investigated the effect of 1,25(OH)2D3 on UV-induced PARP-1 activity using a novel whole-cell enzyme- linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) which quantified levels of the enzymatic product of PARP-1, pADPr. This whole cell assay used around 5000 cells per replicate measurement, which represents a 200–400-fold decrease in cell requirement compared to current commercial assays that measure in vitro pADPr levels. Using our assay, we observed that UV exposure significantly increased pADPr levels in human keratinocytes, while 1,25(OH)2D3 significantly reduced levels of UV-induced pADPr in primary human keratinocytes to a similar extent as a known PARP-1 inhibitor, 3-aminobenzamide (3AB). Further, both 1,25(OH)2D3 and 3AB as well as a peptide inhibitor of ERK-phosphorylation significantly reduced DNA damage in UV-exposed keratinocytes. The current findings support the proposal that reduction in pADPr levels may be critical for the function of 1,25(OH)2D3 in skin to reduce UV-induced DNA damage.
DFT and TD-DFT Investigations for the Limitations of Lengthening the Polyene Bridge between N,N-dimethylanilino Donor and Dicyanovinyl Acceptor Molecules as a D-π-A Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell
Authors: Abu Alrub Sharif , Ali Ahmed I. , Hussein Rageh K. , Alghamdi Suzan K. , Eladly Sally A.
Published: May 2024

One useful technique for increasing the efficiency of organic dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) is to extend the π-conjugated bridges between the donor (D) and the acceptor (A) units. The present study used the DFT and TD–DFT techniques to investigate the effect of lengthening the polyene bridge between the donor N, N-dimethyl-anilino and the acceptor dicyanovinyl. The results of the calculated key properties were not all in line with expectations. Planar structure was associated with increasing the π-conjugation linker, implying efficient electron transfer from the donor to the acceptor. A smaller energy gap, greater oscillator strength values, and red-shifted electronic absorption were also observed when the number of polyene units was increased. However, some results indicated that the potential of the stated dyes to operate as effective dye-sensitized solar cells is limited when the polyene bridge is extended. Increasing the polyene units causes the HOMO level to rise until it exceeds the redox potential of the electrolyte, which delays regeneration and impedes the electron transport cycle from being completed. As the number of conjugated units increases, the terminal lobes of HOMO and LUMO continue to shrink, which affects the ease of intramolecular charge transfer within the dyes. Smaller polyene chain lengths yielded the most favorable results when evaluating the efficiency of electron injection and regeneration. This means that the charge transfer mechanism between the conduction band of the semiconductor and the electrolyte is not improved by extending the polyene bridge. The open circuit voltage (VOC) was reduced from 1.23 to 0.70 V. Similarly, the excited-state duration (τ) decreased from 1.71 to 1.23 ns as the number of polyene units increased from n = 1 to n = 10. These findings are incompatible with the power conversion efficiency requirements of DSSCs. Therefore, the elongation of the polyene bridge in such D-π-A configurations rules out its application in solar cell devices.
Strong Bases and beyond: The Prominent Contribution of Neutral Push–Pull Organic Molecules towards Superbases in the Gas Phase
Authors: Raczyńska Ewa Daniela , Gal Jean-François , Maria Pierre-Charles
Published: May 2024

In this review, the principles of gas-phase proton basicity measurements and theoretical calculations are recalled as a reminder of how the basicity PA/GB scale, based on Brønsted–Lowry theory, was constructed in the gas-phase (PA—proton affinity and/or GB—gas-phase basicity in the enthalpy and Gibbs energy scale, respectively). The origins of exceptionally strong gas-phase basicity of some organic nitrogen bases containing N-sp3 (amines), N-sp2 (imines, amidines, guanidines, polyguanides, phosphazenes), and N-sp (nitriles) are rationalized. In particular, the role of push–pull nitrogen bases in the development of the gas-phase basicity in the superbasicity region is emphasized. Some reasons for the difficulties in measurements for poly-functional nitrogen bases are highlighted. Various structural phenomena being in relation with gas-phase acid–base equilibria that should be considered in quantum-chemical calculations of PA/GB parameters are discussed. The preparation methods for strong organic push–pull bases containing a N-sp2 site of protonation are briefly reviewed. Finally, recent trends in research on neutral organic superbases, leaning toward catalytic and other remarkable applications, are underlined.
New Insight into Intestinal Mast Cells Revealed by Single-Cell RNA Sequencing
Authors: Putro Erisa , Carnevale Alessia , Marangio Caterina , Fulci Valerio , Paolini Rossella , Molfetta Rosa
Published: May 2024

Mast cells (MCs) are tissue-resident immune cells distributed in all tissues and strategically located close to blood and lymphatic vessels and nerves. Thanks to the expression of a wide array of receptors, MCs act as tissue sentinels, able to detect the presence of bacteria and parasites and to respond to different environmental stimuli. MCs originate from bone marrow (BM) progenitors that enter the circulation and mature in peripheral organs under the influence of microenvironment factors, thus differentiating into heterogeneous tissue-specific subsets. Even though MC activation has been traditionally linked to IgE-mediated allergic reactions, a role for these cells in other pathological conditions including tumor progression has recently emerged. However, several aspects of MC biology remain to be clarified. The advent of single-cell RNA sequencing platforms has provided the opportunity to understand MCs’ origin and differentiation as well as their phenotype and functions within different tissues, including the gut. This review recapitulates how single-cell transcriptomic studies provided insight into MC development as well as into the functional role of intestinal MC subsets in health and disease.
Constitutive Neurogenesis and Neuronal Plasticity in the Adult Cerebellum and Brainstem of Rainbow Trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss
Authors: Pushchina Evgeniya Vladislavovna , Varaksin Anatoly Alekseevich
Published: May 2024

The central nervous system of Pacific salmon retains signs of embryonic structure throughout life and a large number of neuroepithelial neural stem cells (NSCs) in the proliferative areas of the brain, in particular. However, the adult nervous system and neurogenesis studies on rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss, are limited. Here, we studied the localization of glutamine synthetase (GS), vimentin (Vim), and nestin (Nes), as well as the neurons formed in the postembryonic period, labeled with doublecortin (DC), under conditions of homeostatic growth in adult cerebellum and brainstem of Oncorhynchus mykiss using immunohistochemical methods and Western Immunoblotting. We observed that the distribution of vimentin (Vim), nestin (Nes), and glutamine synthetase (GS), which are found in the aNSPCs of both embryonic types (neuroepithelial cells) and in the adult type (radial glia) in the cerebellum and the brainstem of trout, has certain features. Populations of the adult neural stem/progenitor cells (aNSPCs) expressing GS, Vim, and Nes have different morphologies, localizations, and patterns of cluster formation in the trout cerebellum and brainstem, which indicates the morphological and, obviously, functional heterogeneity of these cells. Immunolabeling of PCNA revealed areas in the cerebellum and brainstem of rainbow trout containing proliferating cells which coincide with areas expressing Vim, Nes, and GS. Double immunolabeling revealed the PCNA/GS PCNA/Vim coexpression patterns in the neuroepithelial-type cells in the PVZ of the brainstem. PCNA/GS coexpression in the RG was detected in the submarginal zone of the brainstem. The results of immunohistochemical study of the DC distribution in the cerebellum and brainstem of trout have showed a high level of expression of this marker in various cell populations. This may indicate: (i) high production of the adult-born neurons in the cerebellum and brainstem of adult trout, (ii) high plasticity of neurons in the cerebellum and brainstem of trout. We assume that the source of new cells in the trout brain, along with PVZ and SMZ, containing proliferating cells, may be local neurogenic niches containing the PCNA-positive and silent (PCNA-negative), but expressing NSC markers, cells. The identification of cells expressing DC, Vim, and Nes in the IX-X cranial nerve nuclei of trout was carried out.
Identification of Yellow Advanced Glycation End Products in Human Skin
Authors: Fang Bin , Li Lijuan , Winget Jason , Laughlin Timothy , Hakozaki Tomohiro
Published: May 2024

Skin yellowness is a hallmark of dull or unhealthy skin, particularly among Asians. Previous research has indicated a link between skin glycation and skin yellowness. However, the specific glycated chemicals contributing to yellowish skin appearance have not been identified yet. Using HPLC-PDA-HRMS coupled with native and artificially glycated human epidermal explant skin, we identified intensely yellow colored glycated chromophores “(1R, 8aR) and (1S, 8aR)-4-(2-furyl)-7-[(2-furyl)-methylidene]-2-hydroxy-2H,7H,8AH-pyrano-[2,3-B]-pyran-3-one” (abbreviated as AGEY) from human skin samples for the first time. The abundance of AGEY was strongly correlated with skin yellowness in the multiple skin explant tissues. We further confirmed the presence of AGEY in cultured human keratinocytes and 3D reconstructed human epidermal (RHE) models. Additionally, we demonstrated that a combination of four cosmetic compounds with anti-glycation properties can inhibit the formation of AGEY and reduce yellowness in the RHE models. In conclusion, we have identified specific advanced glycation end products with an intense yellow color, namely AGEY, in human skin tissues for the first time. The series of study results highlighted the significant contribution of AGEY to the yellow appearance of the skin. Furthermore, we have identified a potential cosmetic solution to mitigate AGEY formation, leading to a reduction in yellowness in the in vitro RHE models.