bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Potential Related to Microgeneration of Renewable Energy in Urban Spaces and Its Impact on Urban Planning
Authors: Saba Hugo , Brito Filipe Cardoso , dos Santos Rafael Guimarães Oliveira , Borges Toni Alex Reis , Fernandes Raíssa Silva , Araujo Márcio Luís Valenca , Jorge Eduardo Manuel de Freitas , Panizio Roberta Mota , Brito Paulo , Ferreira Paulo , Nascimento Filho Aloísio Santos
Published: November 2024

This research aims to explore the potential of renewable energy sources in urban planning, focusing on microgeneration technologies, through a structured literature review. A systematic review was conducted using the PRISMA method, encompassing the identification, selection, eligibility, and analysis of studies related to renewable energy microgeneration in urban environments. The findings emphasize key areas such as policy development, energy security, and future scenario projections, with a particular focus on solar energy generation. The review highlights the importance of robust regulatory frameworks and monitoring systems for effectively managing prosumers and ensuring equitable energy distribution. Key challenges identified include the intermittency of renewable energy sources, regulatory complexities, monitoring systems, prosumer management, energy sizing risks, and the lifecycle of microgeneration technologies. The research accentuates the need for outstanding collaboration between academia, industry, and urban planners to accelerate the adoption and implementation of renewable energy solutions. The main conclusion is that such collaboration is essential for addressing challenges, driving innovation, and contributing to the development of sustainable urban energy systems.
Diurnal Variation Reveals the Characteristics and Influencing Factors of Cool Island Effects in Urban Blue-Green Spaces
Authors: Kong Ruixue , Chu Yaqi , Hu Yuanman , Zhang Huanxue , Wang Qiuyue , Li Chunlin
Published: November 2024

Urban blue-green space cooling island effect (BGCI) is effective in improving the thermal comfort of residents. However, there is little knowledge regarding the diurnal variation of BGCIs and the influencing factors. Therefore, we selected Beijing as the study area and used ECOSTRESS LST data and the inflection–maximum perspective method to explore the diurnal variation of BGCIs. Additionally, we investigated diurnal variations in the relative influence of the characteristics of the blue-green space itself, as well as the surrounding 2D and 3D landscape metrics using boosted regression tree model. The results indicated that BGCIs displayed distinct diurnal patterns. BGCIs progressively increased from sunrise to midday, decreased thereafter to sunset, reached its peak around midday, and diminished to a relatively low level and constant intensity at night. BGCIs of water bodies exhibited a significantly higher intensity compared to vegetation during the day, particularly around midday, with a difference in mean cooling intensity (CI) of 1.06 °C and mean cooling distance (CD) of 63.27 m, while the differences were minimal at night with a difference in mean CI of 0.02 °C and mean CD of 9.64 m. The features of vegetation had a more significant impact on BGCIs during the day, particularly around midday (CI: 32.30% around midday and 13.86% at night), while the 3D metrics influenced BGCIs more at night (CI: 26.40% around midday and 35.81% at night). The features of water bodies had a greater impact during the midday (52.87% around midday and 10.46% at night), with the landscape metrics of surrounding water bodies playing a more important role at night (15.56% around midday and 38.28% at night). The effect of tree height, shape index of vegetation, and surrounding building coverage ratio of water bodies on BGCIs exhibited opposite trends around midday and at night. Optimizing the landscape surrounding blue-green spaces is more cost-effective than the blue-green spaces themselves for nighttime thermal comfort, especially in 3D urban landscapes. These findings emphasize the imperative and essentiality of exploring diurnal variations in BGCIs, providing valuable information for mitigating UHI effects.
Architectural Trends in Collaborative Computing: Approaches in the Internet of Everything Era
Authors: Souza Débora , Iwashima Gabriele , Farias da Costa Viviane Cunha , Barbosa Carlos Eduardo , de Souza Jano Moreira , Zimbrão Geraldo
Published: November 2024

The majority of the global population now resides in cities, and this trend continues to grow. In this context, the Internet of Things (IoT) is crucial in transforming existing urban areas into Smart Cities. However, IoT architectures mainly focus on machine-to-machine interactions, leaving human involvement aside. The Internet of Everything (IoE) includes human-to-human and human–machine collaboration, but the specifics of these interactions are still under-explored. As urban populations grow and IoT integrates into city infrastructure, efficient, collaborative architectures become crucial. In this work, we use the Rapid Review methodology to analyze collaboration in four prevalent computing architectures in the IoE paradigm, namely Edge Computing, Cloud Computing, Blockchain/Web Services, and Fog Computing. To analyze the collaboration, we use the 3C collaboration model, comprising communication, cooperation, and coordination. Our findings highlight the importance of Edge and Cloud Computing for enhancing collaborative coordination, focusing on efficiency and network optimization. Edge Computing supports real-time, low-latency processing at data sources, while Cloud Computing offers scalable resources for diverse workloads, optimizing coordination and productivity. Effective resource allocation and network configuration in these architectures are essential for cohesive IoT ecosystems. Therefore, this work offers a comparative analysis of four computing architectures, clarifying their capabilities and limitations. Smart Cities are a major beneficiary of these insights. This knowledge can help researchers and practitioners choose the best architecture for IoT and IoE environments. Additionally, by applying the 3C collaboration model, the article provides a framework for improving collaboration in IoT and IoE systems.
Path Planning of Multiple UAVs for the Early Detection of Wildfires in the National Park of Kotychi and Strofylia Wetlands
Authors: Kritikou Georgia , Xofis Panteleimon , Souflas Konstantinos , Moulianitis Vassilis
Published: November 2024

The surveillance of the National Park Kotychi and Strofylia Wetlands in southwest Greece with Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) is studied in this work. As comprehensive coverage of the region cannot be attained with just stationary ground cameras, multiple parallel moving UAVs are utilized. The region is divided into squares, which are further subdivided into regular grids with nodes whose weights are calculated based on the fire risk of the corresponding region. Heuristic methods are proposed for selecting the UAVs’ start and goal graph nodes. The graph with the start and goal nodes serves as input to the A* algorithm, which computes offline short paths that direct the UAVs to cross areas with the highest fire risk. The number of UAVs is progressively increased as the coverage of the previous detections proves insufficient. The authors determine the number of UAVs needed for each section of the divided area. They also demonstrate that the UAVs can scan simultaneously without collisions, as each UAV follows a unique path inaccessible to the others. Finally, the presented computations and results show that the proposed method can effectively contribute to fire scanning in the area.
Thermal Reaction Process and Thermokinetic Characteristics of Coking Coal Oxidation
Authors: Bao Ruoyu , Lei Changkui , Wang Chengbo , Zhou Fubao
Published: November 2024

The coal–oxygen composite reaction is a complex physicochemical reaction process, and different heating rates have a great influence on this reaction. In order to reveal the influence of different heating rates on the coal–oxygen composite reaction of coking coal, the TG-DSC experimental method was adopted to analyze the hysteresis effect of the characteristic temperature, inflection point temperature, and peak temperature under different heating rates. Furthermore, the KAS method was employed to calculate the apparent activation energy, and the Málek method was utilized to infer the most probable mechanism functions and determine the compensation effects at different stages of the coal oxidation process. The results show that with an increase in heating rate, the temperature values corresponding to each characteristic temperature point increase, the characteristic temperature exhibits a hysteresis phenomenon, and the heat flow rate and heat flux rate also show an increasing trend. The apparent activation energy gradually increases in Stages II and III, with a maximum value of 198.7 kJ/mol near the ignition point T3, which first increases and then gradually decreases in Stage IV, where the maximum value is around the temperature point T4 of the maximum mass loss rate, which is 170.02 kJ/mol. The variation trend in the pre-exponential factor is consistent with the apparent activation energy, and the dynamic compensation effect is greater in Stage IV. The three different oxidation stages have different mechanism functions: a three-dimensional diffusion mode is present in Stages II and III, which is ultimately transformed into an accelerated form α-t curve with E1 and n = 1 in Stage IV.
Comparative Physiological and Transcriptome Analyses Reveal the Responses to Ocean Acidification Challenge of Mactra veneriformis with Different Shell Colors
Authors: Chen Limei , Huang Gengyin , Liang Shuang , Liang Jian , Wang Hefeng , Liu Huiru , Wang Xiaoyu , Li Li , Guo Yongjun , Liu Wenguang
Published: November 2024

Mactra veneriformis is highly susceptible to ocean acidification (OA) due to its low shell hardness during its rapid growth period. In this study, oxygen consumption rate, ammonia excretion rate, and transcriptome sequencing of mantle tissue analyses were conducted in white and purple shell-color populations of M. veneriformis under OA stress (pH = 7.6). The findings indicated a significant rise in oxygen consumption rates and ammonia excretion rates following acidification in both the two shell colors, while the clams with purple color showed comparatively lower basal metabolic levels. Transcriptomic analyses demonstrated the expression of key genes related to fatty acid synthesis were significantly inhibited, whereas genes involved in calcification, osmoregulation, and immune response were upregulated under OA exposure in the two shell-color groups. However, some genes such as CA and HSP showed a population-specific response between the two shell-color populations. KEGG enrichment analysis revealed that the MAPK signaling pathway and protein processing in the endoplasmic reticulum were significantly enriched in the two acidification groups. This study provides valuable insights into the response of M. veneriformis to OA stress and also helps to predict the future breeding of valuable strains of M. veneriformis.
Characterization and Potential Food Applications of Oat Flour and Husks from Differently Colored Genotypes as Novel Nutritional Sources of Bioactive Compounds
Authors: Nikolić Valentina , Žilić Slađana , Simić Marijana , Šavikin Katarina , Stević Tatjana , Živković Jelena , Sarić Beka , Milovanović Danka , Kandić Raftery Vesna
Published: November 2024

Oats are gluten-free cereals rich in dietary fiber, β-glucans, phenolic acids, flavonoids, carotenoids, vitamin E, and phytosterols. They have been used in traditional medicine for centuries to treat hyperacidity, acute pancreatitis, burns, and skin inflammation. This study assessed the nutritional and phenolic profile of oat flour (OF) and ground oat husks (OHs) from white, brown, and black hulled oat genotypes, as well as the antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of their extracts. The extracts were tested on six strains of gastrointestinal tract pathogens. OF samples had, on average, a high protein content (15.83%), fat content (6.27%), and β-glucan content (4.69%), while OH samples were rich in dietary fiber. OHs had significantly higher average total phenolic compounds compared to OF and had twice as high antioxidant capacity. Ferulic acid was predominant in all samples, followed by p-coumaric, isoferulic, vanillic, and syringic acid. The traditionally prepared OH extracts manifested the best bactericidal activity against Listeria monocytogenes, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus haemolyticus, while Salmonella typhimurium was the least sensitive to the bactericidal effect of all the investigated samples. Both OF and powdered OHs have potential applications in the functional food industry and pharmacy due to their bioactive compounds, their biological activity, as well as their overall nutritional profile.
Impact of Reconstitution Conditions on the Solubility of Faba Bean Protein Isolate
Authors: Yu Rui , Huppertz Thom , Vasiljevic Todor
Published: November 2024

Faba bean protein isolate (FBPI) is emerging as a promising protein ingredient in the food industry. However, a lack of comprehensive scientific understanding of its functional properties, particularly solubility, limits broader application. This study investigated the reconstitution behaviour of FBPI under different conditions. For this purpose, FBPI dispersions (5% w/w protein) were prepared with varying pH (6.8 or 7.5), temperature (15, 40, or 65 °C), duration of stirring (30, 60, or 90 min), stirring intensity (1000 or 1500 rpm), and water hardness (0, 200, or 400 ppm). Low reconstitution temperature resulted in greater particle size and lower solubility, while elevated temperature minimised intermolecular attractions, improving solubility. Higher pH increased the net-negative charge and thus enhanced the repulsion between the proteins, leading to greater solubility. Water hardness was another important parameter, as greater hardness generally resulted in greater particle size and lower solubility, likely due to calcium bridging. The selection of conditions for the hydration of faba bean protein isolate is important to produce high-quality and high-stability suspensions.
Structural Characterization and Hypoglycemic Activity of a Glycoprotein Extracted from Auricularia Auricula
Authors: Zhan Qiping , Yang Mengdie , Zhao Xinqi , Liu Feifei , Zhao Liyan
Published: November 2024

Glycoproteins are special proteins and important nutrients for hypoglycemic activity. However, the structure of Auricularia Auricula glycoprotein (AAG) and the stability of its hypoglycemic activity during simulated digestion (including saliva, gastral and intestine digestion) in vitro are still unknown. In this study, AAG-3 was isolated from Auricularia Auricula. SDS-PAGE, UV spectrum, FTIR, amino acid composition, dichroic spectrum and SEM were used to characterize its structure. The hypoglycemic activity of AAG-3 during in vitro digestion was investigated via inhibition of α-amylase and α-glucosidase activities, as well as glucose consumption, glycogen content and related enzyme activity in insulin-resistant HepG2 cells. Structural characterization showed that AAG-3 with a Mw of 18.21 kDa had an O-type glycopeptide bond and typical functional groups of glycoproteins. AAG-3 contained 18 kinds of amino acid and many α-helixes and β-turns, and its microstructure was sheet-like. With the simulated digestion of AAG-3 in vitro, the inhibition of α-amylase and α-glucosidase activity as well as the glucose consumption, glycogen content and HK and PK enzyme activities in insulin-resistant HepG2 cells were significantly increased. Therefore, AAG-3 has a potential role in reducing blood glucose levels and improving insulin resistance and can be used as a potential micronutritional supplement for diabetic patients.
Fractionating the Flavonoids in Lonicerae japonicae Flos and Lonicerae flos via Solvent Extraction Coupled with Automated Solid-Phase Extraction
Authors: Li Lingyi , Zhang Shanbo , Yu Bin , Liu Shao Quan , Xiong Yancai
Published: November 2024

Due to the structural diversity of flavonoids in functional plant foods and the inherent limitations of existing techniques, it is important to develop a simple and green (environmentally friendly) method of extracting flavonoids from plant foods. In this study, a method involving solvent extraction followed by automated solid-phase extraction was developed for extracting flavonoids from Lonicerae japonicae flos (JYH) and Lonicerae flos (SYH), both of which are widely used functional plant-based foods in Asian countries. For the optimisation of the solvent extraction method, solvent concentration (0.0, 20.0, 40.0, 60.0, 80.0 and 100.0% (v/v) of ethanol–water solution), extraction temperature (40, 60 and 80 °C) and extraction time (15.0, 30.0, 60.0, 90.0 and 120.0 min) were evaluated via design of experiment after screening. For solid-phase extraction, five cartridges (Strata-X, InertSep RP-2, InertSep RP-C18, Bond Elut-ENV, Oasis Prime HLB) were evaluated and different elution steps were optimised to obtain high recoveries (79.69–140.67%) for eight target flavonoids, including rutin, isoquercetin and luteolin. Antioxidant capacity assays revealed that JYH samples demonstrated superior antioxidant potential compared to SYH. The optimised extraction method provides a valuable tool for industrial-scale flavonoid production.
Exploring the Neuroprotective Effects of Grape Seed Procyanidins on Amyloid-β-Induced Toxicity in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: González-Manzano Susana , Ayuda-Durán Begoña , Martín-Sanz Roberto , Garzón-García Lidia , Santos-Buelga Celestino , González-Paramás Ana María
Published: November 2024

Alzheimer’s disease (AD), a major neurodegenerative disorder, is characterized by the progressive accumulation of amyloid-β (Aβ) plaques, leading to cognitive decline. Despite the existing treatments, their limited efficacy highlights the urgent need for novel therapeutic strategies. The present study investigates the neuroprotective effects of a grape seed polyphenol extract (GSPE) on transgenic Caenorhabditis elegans models specifically expressing human Aβ proteins. The obtained results show that GSPE not only significantly attenuates Aβ-induced paralysis but also extends the lifespan and improves sensory responses in these models, suggesting improved neural function and overall health. Additionally, GSPE treatment reduces proteasomal activity, which could lead to a reduction in the accumulation of misfolded proteins. It also modulates the expression of key genes involved in autophagy and proteostasis, thereby enhancing cellular mechanisms to manage protein aggregation and combat oxidative stress. On the whole, these findings support the potential of grape seed procyanidins (the main components in the extract) to be used as an effective dietary approach to mitigate Alzheimer’s disease pathology through the modulation of critical neuroprotective pathways.
Computational and Numerical Analysis of the Caputo-Type Fractional Nonlinear Dynamical Systems via Novel Transform
Authors: AlBaidani Mashael M. , Aljuaydi Fahad , Alsubaie Shahad Abdullah F. , Ganie Abdul Hamid , Khan Adnan
Published: November 2024

Two new methods for handling a system of nonlinear fractional differential equations are presented in this investigation. Based on the characteristics of fractional calculus, the Caputo fractional partial derivative provides an easy way to determine the approximate solution for systems of nonlinear fractional differential equations. These methods provide a convergent series solution by using simple steps and symbolic computation. Several graphical representations and tables provide numerical simulations of the results, which demonstrate the effectiveness and dependability of the current schemes in locating the numerical solutions of coupled systems of fractional nonlinear differential equations. By comparing the numerical solutions of the systems under study with the accurate results in situations when a known solution exists, the viability and dependability of the suggested methodologies are clearly depicted. Additionally, we compared our results with those of the homotopy decomposition method, the natural decomposition method, and the modified Mittag-Leffler function method. It is clear from the comparison that our techniques yield better results than other approaches. The numerical results show that an accurate, reliable, and efficient approximation can be obtained with a minimal number of terms. We demonstrated that our methods for fractional models are straightforward and accurate, and researchers can apply these methods to tackle a range of issues. These methods also make clear how to use fractal calculus in real life. Furthermore, the results of this study support the value and significance of fractional operators in real-world applications.
A Novel and Effective Scheme for Solving the Fractional Telegraph Problem via the Spectral Element Method
Authors: Liu Tao , Xue Runqi , Ding Bolin , Juraev Davron A. , Saray Behzad Nemati , Soleymani Fazlollah
Published: November 2024

The combination of fractional derivatives (due to their global behavior) and the challenges related to hyperbolic PDEs pose formidable obstacles in solving fractional hyperbolic equations. Due to the importance and applications of the fractional telegraph equation, solving it and presenting accurate solutions via a novel and effective method can be useful. This work introduces and implements a method based on the spectral element method (SEM) that relies on interpolating scaling functions (ISFs). Through the use of an orthonormal projection, the method maps the equation to scaling spaces raised from multi-resolution analysis (MRA). To achieve this, the Caputo fractional derivative (CFD) is represented by ISFs as a square matrix. Remarkable efficiency, ease of implementation, and precision are the distinguishing features of the presented method. An analysis is provided to demonstrate the convergence of the scheme, and illustrative examples validate our method.
Loss of Heterozygosity (LOH) Affecting HLA Genes in Breast Cancer: Clinical Relevance and Therapeutic Opportunities
Authors: Garrido María Antonia , Navarro-Ocón Alba , Ronco-Díaz Víctor , Olea Nicolás , Aptsiauri Natalia
Published: November 2024

Major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class-I molecules (or Human Leucocyte Antigen class-I) play a key role in adaptive immunity against cancer. They present specific tumor neoantigens to cytotoxic T cells and provoke an antitumor cytotoxic response. The total or partial loss of HLA molecules can inhibit the immune system’s ability to detect and destroy cancer cells. Loss of heterozygosity (LOH) is a common irreversible genetic alteration that occurs in the great majority of human tumors, including breast cancer. LOH at chromosome 6, which involves HLA genes (LOH-HLA), leads to the loss of an HLA haplotype and is linked to cancer progression and a weak response to cancer immunotherapy. Therefore, the loss of genes or an entire chromosomal region which are critical for antigen presentation is of particular importance in the search for novel prognostic and clinical biomarkers in breast cancer. Here, we review the role of LOH-HLA in breast cancer, its contribution to an understanding of cancer immune escape and tumor progression, and discuss how it can be targeted in cancer therapy.
Melatonin Improves H2O2-Induced Oxidative Stress in Sertoli Cells Through Nrf2-Keap1 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Tang Ying , Wang Ziming , Chen Yanru , Wang Junying , Wang Hongzhan , Li Bo , Liu Bojing , Zheng Peng
Published: November 2024

Background: Oxidative stress in the testicles of male livestock can cause reduced fertility. Melatonin is a natural product with antioxidant effects, but its specific antioxidant mechanism is still unclear. This study used calf testicular Sertoli cells as materials to explore the mechanism by which melatonin alleviates the oxidative stress of Sertoli cells, laying a foundation for improving the fertility of bulls. Methods: The optimal treatment concentrations of H2O2 and melatonin (MLT) were screened out using a CCK8 kit and MDA kit. Then, the cells were divided into four groups for treatment: control group, H2O2 treatment group, MLT treatment group, and H2O2 and MLT co-treatment group, then the MDA, ROS, GSH, and SOD contents were detected. Real-time quantitative PCR analysis and Western blot analysis were used to detect genes and proteins related to the Nrf2-Keap1 pathway. Immunofluorescence staining was used to analyze changes in Nrf2. Results: Research results show that the MDA content of cells in the group treated with H2O2 and MLT combined was significantly lower than that in the group treated with H2O2 alone, but there was no difference from the control group. Compared with the control group, the ROS level of cells in the H2O2-treated group significantly increased, and the content of GSH and SOD significantly decreased. Compared with the H2O2-treated group, the ROS level of cells in the H2O2 and MLT co-treated group significantly decreased, and the content of GSH and SOD increased significantly, but no difference from the control group. Similarly, MTL can alleviate the changes in cellular Nrf2, Keap1, HO-1, and NQO1 expression caused by H2O2. Conclusions: Melatonin activates the Nrf2-Keap1 signaling pathway in Sertoli cells, elevating the expression of HO-1 and NQO1, and thereby exerting its antioxidant capabilities.
Exploring Immune Cell Infiltration and Small Molecule Compounds for Ulcerative Colitis Treatment
Authors: Lu Yi , Lu Dongqing , Li Chujie , Chen Luping
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) with a relapsing nature and complex etiology. Bioinformatics analysis has been widely applied to investigate various diseases. This study aimed to identify crucial differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and explore potential therapeutic agents for UC. Methods: The GSE47908 and GSE55306 colon tissue transcriptome gene datasets were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus-NCBI (GEO) database. GEO2R and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) were used to screen for DEGs in patients with UC compared to the normal population based on weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). GO-BP analysis and KEGG enrichment analysis were performed on the intersecting differential genes via the Metascape website, while hub genes were analyzed by STRING11.0 and Cytoscape3.7.1. The expression of hub genes was verified in the dataset GSE38713 colon tissue specimens. Finally, the gene expression profiles of the validation set were analyzed by immuno-infiltration through the ImmuCellAI online tool, and the CMap database was used to screen for negatively correlated small molecule compounds. Results: A total of 595 and 926 genes were screened by analysis of GSE47908 and GSE55306 datasets, respectively. Combined WGCNA hub module intersection yielded 12 hub genes (CXCL8, IL1β, CXCL1, CCL20, CXCL2, CXCR2, LCN2, SELL, AGT, LILRB3, MMP3, IDO1) associated with the pathogenesis of UC. GSEA analysis yielded intersecting pathways for both datasets (colorectal cancer pathway, base excision repair, cell cycle, apoptosis). GO-BP and KEGG enrichment analyses were performed to obtain key biological processes (inflammatory response, response to bacteria, leukocyte activation involved in the immune response, leukocyte–cell adhesion, apoptosis, positive regulation of immune effector processes) and key signaling pathways (cytokine–cytokine receptor interactions, IBD, NOD-like receptor signaling pathways). The immune cell infiltration analysis suggested that the incidence of UC was mainly related to the increase in CD4+T cells, depletion of T cells, T follicular helper cells, natural killer cells, γδ T cells and the decrease in CD8 naive T cells, helper T cells 17 and effector T cells. The CMap database results showed that small molecule compounds such as vorinostat, roxarsone, and wortmannin may be therapeutic candidates for UC. Conclusions: This study not only aids in early prediction and prevention but also provides novel insights into the pathogenesis and treatment of UC.
Mechanism-Driven Strategies for Reducing Fall Risk in the Elderly: A Multidisciplinary Review of Exercise Interventions
Authors: Zhong Yuan-Ji , Meng Qing , Su Chun-Hsien
Published: November 2024

Falls among older adults present a major public health challenge, causing significant physical, psychological, and economic consequences. Exercise interventions are a proven strategy to reduce fall risk by targeting biomechanical, physiological, and psychological factors. This review examines evidence from 155 studies published between 2004 and 2024, including systematic reviews, meta-analyses, randomized controlled trials, and cohort studies. Data were rigorously screened and extracted using predefined criteria, with studies sourced from PubMed, MEDLINE, EBSCO (EDS), and additional gray literature identified via Google Scholar. Key findings show that balance and strength training improves postural control, gait stability, and neuromuscular coordination, while resistance training mitigates sarcopenia and enhances joint mobility. Cognitive exercises enhance attention, spatial awareness, decision-making, and psychological benefits like reduced fear of falling and greater social engagement. Multidisciplinary approaches integrating physical, cognitive, and social components deliver the most significant impact. This review underscores the value of evidence-based exercise programs in promoting active aging and enhancing the quality of life for older adults.
Physician Deserts: Navigating the Texas Terrain of Provider Supply and Demand with GIS Mapping
Authors: Jafri Syed Hussain , Gandhi Subi , Osei Edward
Published: November 2024

Background: Rural health disparities in Texas impact population health due to limited healthcare access, insurance, and transportation challenges, especially in medically underserved areas. A shortage of specialists in rural regions worsens these issues, leading to increased morbidity and mortality rates. Objective: Our research aimed to address a knowledge gap by investigating the availability of three medical specialists—cardiologists, pulmonologists, and endocrinologists—in rural counties of Texas and identifying areas where access to healthcare is limited. Methods: Utilizing data from regional, state, and federal sources, the analysis geocoded specialist locations and created GIS maps to visualize the distribution of specialists across Texas’s 254 counties. Physician demand was calculated by considering disease incidence and population size, resulting in a county-level physician availability index to highlight areas with shortages. Results: Our findings demonstrate a significant deficiency of cardiologists in 196 counties when considering a maximum reasonable travel distance of 50 miles. Comparable deficiencies were observed for pulmonologists and endocrinologists, with western rural counties predominantly comprising the deficiency areas for each specialty. These results emphasize a significant rural–urban disparity concerning access to the three investigated health specialists. Conclusions: Addressing geographic disparities can reduce health inequities, improve rural healthcare access, and promote a more equitable healthcare system across Texas. Solutions may include incentives for specialists to work in underserved areas, expanded telemedicine services, and transportation assistance.
Mobile Application for Tracking Children with Autistic Spectrum Disorder: Content Validation and Usability
Authors: Garcia Camila Porpino Maia , Mendonça Andrea Gondim , Fagundes Adriane da Cunha Aragão Rios , Santos Ana Cristina de Macedo , Pereira Francilene Jane Rodrigues , Valdevino Stella Costa , de Góis Rebecca Maria Oliveira , Lins Rodrigo Barros Esteves , Freire Renata Pascoal , de Sousa Mailson Marques , Pereira Vagna Cristina Leite da Silva , Silva Cleyton Cézar Souto
Published: November 2024

Background: This study aims to validate the content and evaluate the usability of the Autism App for screening children with autism spectrum disorder. Methods: This methodological study was conducted between August 2023 and March 2024. The study included 15 experts for content validation and nine for usability evaluation, all of whom had experience in the health/technology field. Content validation data were analyzed using the Content Validity Ratio (CVR), and usability was assessed through heuristics using the MATcH-MED instrument. Results: The content validation showed satisfactory CVR values, ensuring the validity of the developed application, with suggestions for revisions regarding aims and structure. The usability evaluation yielded an overall average score of 50.9 points, classified as a high level of usability. Conclusion: The results demonstrated that the App-Autismo has adequate evidence of content validity and usability. By incorporating the experts’ suggestions, this tool can be tested in future research for its effectiveness and efficiency.
A Hybrid of Box-Jenkins ARIMA Model and Neural Networks for Forecasting South African Crude Oil Prices
Authors: Tsoku Johannes Tshepiso , Metsileng Daniel , Botlhoko Tshegofatso
Published: November 2024

The current study aims to model the South African crude oil prices using the hybrid of Box-Jenkins autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) and Neural Networks (NNs). This study introduces a hybrid approach to forecasting methods aimed at resolving the issues of lack of precision in forecasting. The proposed methodology includes two models, namely, hybridisation of ARIMA with artificial neural network (ANN)-based Extreme Learning Machine (ELM) and ARIMA with general regression neural network (GRNN) to model both linear and nonlinear simultaneously. The models were compared with the base ARIMA model. The study utilised monthly time series data spanning from January 2021 to March 2023. The formal stationarity test confirmed that the crude oil price series is integrated of order one, I(1). For the linear process, the ARIMA (2,1,2) model was identified as the best fit for the series and successfully passed all diagnostic tests. The ARIMA-ANN-based ELM hybrid model outperformed both the individual ARIMA model and the ARIMA-GRNN hybrid. However, the ARIMA model also showed better performance than the ARIMA-GRNN hybrid, highlighting its strong competitiveness compared to the ARIMA-ANN-based ELM model. The hybrid models are recommended for use by policy makers and practitioners in general.
Dasymetric Algorithms Using Land Cover to Estimate Human Population at Smaller Spatial Scales
Authors: Bonnevie Ida Maria , Hansen Henning Sten , Schrøder Lise
Published: November 2024

Data repositories such as Eurostat and OECD provide important socioeconomic datasets useful to guide decision support towards reaching sustainable development goals. However, socioeconomic data are typically available at a limited spatiotemporal scale. In the Horizon Europe-funded AquaINFRA project, a specific scope is to make EU data more analysis ready. As part of this, transformations of data into common spatial entities are needed to facilitate cross-analysis in, for example, social-ecological modelling. This paper uses CORINE land cover as ancillary data and EUROSTAT population data to investigate binary and weighted dasymetric refinement strategies to arrive at areal interpolation algorithms to estimate population data at smaller spatial scales. Six different algorithms are presented, and their accuracies are tested with quality measures. Their limitations and further development potentials on how to make them more precise and expand their usefulness in the future to other types of socioeconomic data are discussed.
Impact of Land Use Change on Carbon Storage in Complex Terrains: A Case Study of Sichuan–Chongqing, China
Authors: Chu Tiankuo , Li Jun , Zhang Chengye , Dai Xiaoai , Qing Yikun , Huang Huan , Peng Manling
Published: November 2024

Understanding human activity and global climate change requires an understanding of the impact of land-use change on carbon storage. Nevertheless, the number of studies examining carbon storage in complex terrain areas remains relatively limited. This study quantified land use shifts and carbon storage variations from 2010 to 2030 in the Sichuan–Chongqing region in China by combining InVEST and PLUS models. The results show that (1) the Sichuan–Chongqing region exhibits a predominantly concentrated pattern of land utilization, with forests occupying a dominant position among various land types in the locality. (2) The total carbon storage loss between 2010 and 2020 is 24.19 Tg. Except for the ecological development scenario, compared to 2020, all multi-scenario projections show less carbon storage in 2030. (3) The primary cause of carbon loss is the sprawl of built-up areas into farmlands, forests, and grasslands. (4) The geomorphology of complex terrain greatly affects carbon storage; flat terrain tends to be less carbon-intensive than more steeply sloping terrain. This study offers worthwhile insights for sustainable land management and carbon mitigation strategies in complex terrains worldwide.
The Aging Stomach: Clinical Implications of H. pylori Infection in Older Adults—Challenges and Strategies for Improved Management
Authors: Skokowski Jaroslaw , Vashist Yogesh , Girnyi Sergii , Cwalinski Tomasz , Mocarski Piotr , Antropoli Carmine , Brillantino Antonio , Boccardi Virginia , Goyal Aman , Ciarleglio Francesco A. , Almohaimeed Muhannad Abdullah , De Luca Raffaele , Abou-Mrad Adel , Marano Luigi , Oviedo Rodolfo J. , Januszko-Giergielewicz Beata
Published: November 2024

Aging is a multifactorial biological process characterized by a decline in physiological function and increasing susceptibility to various diseases, including malignancies and gastrointestinal disorders. Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is highly prevalent among older adults, particularly those in institutionalized settings, contributing to conditions such as atrophic gastritis, peptic ulcer disease, and gastric carcinoma. This review examines the intricate interplay between aging, gastrointestinal changes, and H. pylori pathogenesis. The age-associated decline in immune function, known as immunosenescence, exacerbates the challenges of managing H. pylori infection. Comorbidities and polypharmacy further increase the risk of adverse outcomes in older adults. Current clinical guidelines inadequately address the specific needs of the geriatric population, who are disproportionately affected by antibiotic resistance, heightened side effects, and diagnostic complexities. This review focuses on recent advancements in understanding H. pylori infection among older adults, including epidemiology, diagnostics, therapeutic strategies, and age-related gastric changes. Diagnostic approaches must consider the physiological changes that accompany aging, and treatment regimens need to be carefully tailored to balance efficacy and tolerability. Emerging strategies, such as novel eradication regimens and adjunctive probiotic therapies, show promise for improving treatment outcomes. However, significant knowledge gaps persist regarding the impact of aging on H. pylori pathogenesis and treatment efficacy. A multidisciplinary approach involving gastroenterologists, geriatricians, and other specialists is crucial to providing comprehensive care for this vulnerable population. Future research should focus on refining diagnostic and therapeutic protocols to bridge these gaps, ultimately enhancing clinical outcomes and reducing the burden of H. pylori-associated diseases in the aging population.
Anemia and Mineral Bone Disorder in Kidney Disease Patients: The Role of FGF-23 and Other Related Factors
Authors: Carullo Nazareno , Sorbo David , Faga Teresa , Pugliese Sara , Zicarelli Maria Teresa , Costa Davide , Ielapi Nicola , Battaglia Yuri , Pisani Antonio , Coppolino Giuseppe , Bolignano Davide , Michael Ashour , Serra Raffaele , Andreucci Michele
Published: November 2024

Anemia and mineral and bone disorder (MBD) are significant complications of chronic kidney disease (CKD). The erythropoietin (Epo) pathway plays a key role in both of these processes in CKD. Another molecule that plays an important role in CKD-MBD is fibroblast growth factor (FGF)-23, whose main role is to maintain serum phosphate levels in the normal range, acting via its co-receptor Klotho; however, its activity may also be related to anemia and inflammation. In this review, the regulation of Epo and FGF-23 and the molecular mechanisms of their action are outlined. Furthermore, the complex interaction between EPO and FGF-23 is discussed, as well as their association with other anemia-related factors and processes such as Klotho, vitamin D, and iron deficiency. Together, these may be part of a “kidney–bone marrow–bone axis” that promotes CKD-MBD.
Impact of Gold Nanoparticles and Ionizing Radiation on Whole Chromatin Organization as Detected by Single-Molecule Localization Microscopy
Authors: Schäfer Myriam , Hildenbrand Georg , Hausmann Michael
Published: November 2024

In radiation tumor therapy, irradiation, on one hand, should cause cell death to the tumor. On the other hand, the surrounding non-tumor tissue should be maintained unaffected. Therefore, methods of local dose enhancements are highly interesting. Gold nanoparticles, which are preferentially uptaken by very-fast-proliferating tumor cells, may enhance damaging. However, the results in the literature obtained from cell culture and animal tissue experiments are very contradictory, i.e., only some experiments reveal increased cell killing but others do not. Thus, a better understanding of cellular mechanisms is required. Using the breast cancer cell model SkBr3, the effects of gold nanoparticles in combination with ionizing radiation on chromatin network organization were investigated by Single-Molecule Localization Microscopy (SMLM) and applications of mathematical topology calculations (e.g., Persistent Homology, Principal Component Analysis, etc.). The data reveal a dose and nanoparticle dependent re-organization of chromatin, although colony forming assays do not show a significant reduction of cell survival after the application of gold nanoparticles to the cells. In addition, the spatial organization of γH2AX clusters was elucidated, and characteristic changes were obtained depending on dose and gold nanoparticle application. The results indicate a complex response of ALU-related chromatin and heterochromatin organization correlating to ionizing radiation and gold nanoparticle incorporation. Such complex whole chromatin re-organization is usually associated with changes in genome function and supports the hypothesis that, with the application of gold nanoparticles, not only is DNA damage increasing but also the efficiency of DNA repair may be increased. The understanding of complex chromatin responses might help to improve the gold nanoparticle efficiency in radiation treatment.
Hydroxytyrosol Alleviates Acute Liver Injury by Inhibiting the TNF-α/PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathway via Targeting TNF-α Signaling
Authors: Gao Zhining , Dai Haoyang , Zhang Qinqin , Yang Fan , Bu Chenxi , Chen Suiqing
Published: November 2024

Acute liver injury (ALI) is an injury to liver tissue caused by viruses, drugs, alcohol, and oxygen deprivation, and is one of the most common and serious clinical disorders. Hydroxytyrosol (HT) is a naturally occurring polyphenolic compound isolated from forsythia and has excellent anti-inflammatory properties. However, the effect and mechanisms of HT in ALI remain unclear. We used the LPS/D-GalN induced experimental ALI mouse model and AML12 cells to reveal the efficacy and potential mechanisms of HT in ALI, and HE staining was used for the evaluation of pathologies. A biochemical assay was used to detect changes in liver function, RNA-seq was conducted to reveal the underlying mechanisms of HT for ALI, and WB, RT-qPCR, and IF were used to assess the effects of HT action. Furthermore, an in vitro ALI model against HT in AML12 cells induced by LPS/D-GalN was used to assess the HT protection mechanism. HT significant alleviated LPS/D-GalN-induced ALI in the mice by suppressing inflammatory. In terms of RNA-seq, HT improved the TNF, ECM-receptor interaction, and PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, and it downregulated the mRNA levels of VCAM-1, CXCL5, TNF-α and IL-6 in the liver. Mechanically, HT alleviated LPS/D-GalN in the mice by targeting TNF-α, thereby inhibiting the TNF-α/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.
Association of Gut Microbiome and Dipeptidyl Peptidase 4 in Immune-Mediated Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Rapid Literature Review
Authors: Gomes Sandra F. , Valois André , Estevinho Maria Manuela , Santiago Mafalda , Magro Fernando
Published: November 2024

Immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs) are characterized by dysregulated immune responses and chronic tissue inflammation. In the setting of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4) and gut microorganisms have been proved to interplay, potentially influenced by dietary factors. This rapid review aimed to study the DPP4-gut microbiome link in IBD. A search across five databases and two gray literature sources identified seven relevant studies reporting data on DPP4 and gut microbiome in patients with IBD-related IMIDs or in vitro or in vivo models: one cross-sectional, one in vitro, and five in vivo studies. The findings revealed a significant impact of DPP4 and its substrates, i.e., glucagon-like peptide-1/2 (GLP-1/2), on the composition of gut microbiome and on the development of dysbiosis. Increased DPP4 activity is associated with decreased GLP-1/2; increased pathogenic bacterial phyla such as Actinobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Deferribacteres, Firmicutes, Fusobacteriota, Proteobacteria, and Verrucomicrobia; and decreased alpha diversity of beneficial gut microbes, including Clostridiaceae, Lachnospiraceae, and Ruminococcaceae families and short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria like Odoribacter and Butryvibrio spp., with exacerbation of intestinal inflammation. This overview revealed that understanding the DPP4-gut microbiome association is critical for the development of DPP4-targeted therapeutic strategies to guarantee gut microbiome balance and modulation of immune response in IBD.
Effect of Silibinin on Human Pancreatic Lipase Inhibition and Gut Microbiota in Healthy Volunteers: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Ponce Martínez Cristina , Murcia García Elena , Pérez Sánchez Horacio , Milagro Fermín I. , Riezu-Boj José I. , Ramos Molina Bruno , Gómez Gallego María , Zamora Salvador , Cañavate Cutillas Rubén , Hernández Morante Juan José
Published: November 2024

Thistle (Onopordum acanthium) has been traditionally employed for liver protection. However, we recently identified silibinin, the main bioactive compound of thistle extract, as an in vitro pancreatic lipase inhibitor, which suggested a potential role as an anti-obesity agent. This study aimed to assess, in vivo, the efficacy, safety, and effects of silibinin on human lipase. As a secondary objective, we evaluated potential changes in gut microbiota after silibinin treatment. A randomized trial comparing 150 mg/silibinin, 300 mg/silibinin, and a thistle extract (equivalent to 150 mg/silibinin) with placebo and orlistat/120 mg was conducted. Fecal fat excretion, clinical parameters, and microbiota changes were analyzed. Orlistat showed the highest fecal fat excretion, although thistle extract had similar results (p = 0.582). The 150 mg/silibinin group reported the fewest adverse effects. Both silibinin and orlistat reduced plasma triglycerides (p = 0.016) and waist circumference (p = 0.001). Specific microbiota changes, such as increases in Mycobacteriaceae and Veillonellaceae, were associated with higher fat excretion. Although the present work was conducted in the short term and in people of normal weight, our results suggest that silibinin may be safe and effective for obesity, with minimal adverse effects and no significant changes in microbiota diversity. Further studies are needed to explore its microbiota-related benefits.