bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural Progression in Patients with Definite and Non-Definite Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy and Risk of Major Adverse Cardiac Events
Authors: Aljehani Areej , Baig Shanat , Kew Tania , Kalla Manish , Sommerfeld Laura C. , Murukutla Vaishnavi Ameya , Fabritz Larissa , Steeds Richard P.
Published: January 2024

Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC) is a rare inherited disease characterised by early arrhythmias and structural changes. Still, there are limited echocardiography data on its structural progression. We studied structural progression and its impact on the occurrence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). In this single-centre observational cohort study, structural progression was defined as the development of new major or minor imaging 2010 Task Force Criteria during follow-up. Of 101 patients, a definite diagnosis of ARVC was made in 51 patients, while non-definite ‘early’ disease was diagnosed in 50 patients. During 4 years of follow-up (IQR: 2–6), 23 (45%) patients with a definite diagnosis developed structural progression while only 1 patient in the non-definite (early) group gained minor imaging Task Force Criteria. Male gender was strongly associated with structural progression (62% of males progressed structurally, while 88% of females remained stable). Patients with structural progression were at higher risk of MACE (64% of patients with MACE had structural progression). Therefore, the rate of structural progression is an essential factor to be considered in ARVC studies.
Autonomous Parameter Balance in Population-Based Approaches: A Self-Adaptive Learning-Based Strategy
Authors: Vega Emanuel , Lemus-Romani José , Soto Ricardo , Crawford Broderick , Löffler Christoffer , Peña Javier , Talbi El-Gazhali
Published: January 2024

Population-based metaheuristics can be seen as a set of agents that smartly explore the space of solutions of a given optimization problem. These agents are commonly governed by movement operators that decide how the exploration is driven. Although metaheuristics have successfully been used for more than 20 years, performing rapid and high-quality parameter control is still a main concern. For instance, deciding the proper population size yielding a good balance between quality of results and computing time is constantly a hard task, even more so in the presence of an unexplored optimization problem. In this paper, we propose a self-adaptive strategy based on the on-line population balance, which aims for improvements in the performance and search process on population-based algorithms. The design behind the proposed approach relies on three different components. Firstly, an optimization-based component which defines all metaheuristic tasks related to carry out the resolution of the optimization problems. Secondly, a learning-based component focused on transforming dynamic data into knowledge in order to influence the search in the solution space. Thirdly, a probabilistic-based selector component is designed to dynamically adjust the population. We illustrate an extensive experimental process on large instance sets from three well-known discrete optimization problems: Manufacturing Cell Design Problem, Set covering Problem, and Multidimensional Knapsack Problem. The proposed approach is able to compete against classic, autonomous, as well as IRace-tuned metaheuristics, yielding interesting results and potential future work regarding dynamically adjusting the number of solutions interacting on different times within the search process.
Natural Frequencies of Diatom Shells: Alteration of Eigenfrequencies Using Structural Patterns Inspired by Diatoms
Authors: Andresen Simone , Linnemann Selina K. , Ahmad Basri Ahmad Burhani , Savysko Oleksandr , Hamm Christian
Published: January 2024

Diatoms have delicate and complex shells showing different lightweight design principles that have already been applied to technical products improving the mechanical properties. In addition, diatom inspired structures are expected to significantly affect the vibration characteristics, i.e., the eigenfrequencies. Directed eigenfrequency shifts are of great interest for many technical applications to prevent undesired high vibration amplitudes. Therefore, numerous complex diatom inspired dome structures primarily based on combs, ribs, and bulging patterns were constructed and their eigenfrequencies were numerically studied. Different structural patterns were identified to significantly affect eigenfrequencies. The results were compared to dome structures equipped with rib patterns in combination with a common structural optimization tool. The study indicates that a combination of (1) selecting diatom inspired structural patterns that strongly affect eigenfrequencies, and (2) adapting them to the boundary conditions of the technical problem is an efficient method to design diatom inspired lightweight solutions with high eigenfrequencies.
High-Performance PMN-PT Single-Crystal-Based 1-3 Composite Transducer Integrated with a Biopsy Needle
Authors: Kreager Benjamin C. , Wu Huaiyu , Chang Wei-Yi , Moon Sunho , Mitchell Josh , Peng Chang , Huang Chih-Chung , Muller Marie , Tian Jian , Jiang Xiaoning
Published: January 2024

To address the need for high-resolution imaging in lung nodule detection and overcome the limitations of the shallow imaging depth associated with high-frequency ultrasound and the complex structure of lung tissue, we successfully integrated 50 MHz ultrasound transducers with 18-gauge biopsy needles. Featuring a miniaturized size of 0.6 × 0.5 × 0.5 mm3, the 50 MHz micromachined 1-3 composite transducer was tested to perform mechanical scanning of a nodule within a lung-tissue-mimicking phantom in vitro. The high-frequency transducer demonstrated the ability to achieve imaging with an axial resolution of 30 μm for measuring nodule edges. Moreover, the integrated biopsy needle prototype exhibited high accuracy (1.74% discrepancy) in estimating nodule area compared to actual dimensions in vitro. These results underscore the promising potential of biopsy-needle-integrated transducers in enhancing the accuracy of endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration biopsy (EUS-FNA) for clinical applications.
The Impact of Climate Change on Construction Activity Performance
Authors: Oruc Sertac , Dikbas Huseyin Attila , Gumus Berkin , Yucel Ismail
Published: January 2024

There are specific construction operations that require weather forecast data to make short-term decisions regarding construction; however, most resource-related decision making and all project management plans must be carried out to anticipate weather conditions beyond the capabilities of the currently available forecasting technologies. In this study, a series of single- and multi-risk analyses were performed with ~9 km grid resolution over Türkiye using combinations of weather and climate variables and their threshold values which have an impact on the execution and performance of construction activities. These analyses will improve the predictability of potential delays, enable the project to be scheduled on a future-proof basis by considering the calculated normal and periodic predictions on the grid scale, and serve as a dispute resolution tool for related claims. A comprehensive case study showcasing the methodology and illustrating its application shows that the project duration is expected to be extended because of the impact of climate on both historical and future periods. While the original project duration was 207 days, when climate effects were considered, the optimum mean and median values increased to 255 and 238 days, respectively, for the historical period. The optimum duration mean and median change to 239 days by the end of the century, according to the SSP5-8.5 scenario, if the construction schedules consider climate change. The change in duration was mainly due to rising temperatures, which increased winter workability and reduced summer workability. However, if the historical practices are carried over to future schedules, the mean and median increase to 258 days and 244 days, respectively, which may cause unavoidable direct, indirect, or overhead costs.
Novel Approaches with HIF-2α Targeted Therapies in Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Nguyen Charles B. , Oh Eugene , Bahar Piroz , Vaishampayan Ulka N. , Else Tobias , Alva Ajjai S.
Published: January 2024

Germline inactivation of the Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) tumor suppressor is the defining hallmark in hereditary VHL disease and VHL-associated renal cell carcinoma (RCC). However, somatic VHL mutations are also observed in patients with sporadic RCC. Loss of function VHL mutations result in constitutive activation of hypoxia-inducible factor-2 alpha (HIF-2α), which leads to increased expression of HIF target genes that promote angiogenesis and tumor growth. As of 2023, belzutifan is currently the only approved HIF-2α inhibitor for both VHL-associated and sporadic metastatic RCC (mRCC). However, there is potential for resistance with HIF-2α inhibitors which warrants novel HIF-2α-targeting strategies. In this review, we discuss the potential resistance mechanisms with belzutifan and current clinical trials evaluating novel combinations of belzutifan with other targeted therapies and immune checkpoint inhibitors which may enhance the efficacy of HIF-2α targeting. Lastly, we also discuss newer generation HIF-2α inhibitors that are currently under early investigation and outline future directions and challenges with HIF-2α inhibitors for mRCC.
Social and Biological Determinants in Lung Cancer Disparity
Authors: Brock Briana A. , Mir Hina , Flenaugh Eric L. , Oprea-Ilies Gabriela , Singh Rajesh , Singh Shailesh
Published: January 2024

Lung cancer remains a leading cause of death in the United States and globally, despite progress in treatment and screening efforts. While mortality rates have decreased in recent years, long-term survival of patients with lung cancer continues to be a challenge. Notably, African American (AA) men experience significant disparities in lung cancer compared to European Americans (EA) in terms of incidence, treatment, and survival. Previous studies have explored factors such as smoking patterns and complex social determinants, including socioeconomic status, personal beliefs, and systemic racism, indicating their role in these disparities. In addition to social factors, emerging evidence points to variations in tumor biology, immunity, and comorbid conditions contributing to racial disparities in this disease. This review emphasizes differences in smoking patterns, screening, and early detection and the intricate interplay of social, biological, and environmental conditions that make African Americans more susceptible to developing lung cancer and experiencing poorer outcomes.
Preoperative Prediction of Perineural Invasion and Prognosis in Gastric Cancer Based on Machine Learning through a Radiomics–Clinicopathological Nomogram
Authors: Jia Heng , Li Ruzhi , Liu Yawei , Zhan Tian , Li Yuan , Zhang Jianping
Published: January 2024

Purpose: The aim of this study was to construct and validate a nomogram for preoperatively predicting perineural invasion (PNI) in gastric cancer based on machine learning, and to investigate the impact of PNI on the overall survival (OS) of gastric cancer patients. Methods: Data were collected from 162 gastric patients and analyzed retrospectively, and radiomics features were extracted from contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) scans. A group of 42 patients from the Cancer Imaging Archive (TCIA) were selected as the validation set. Univariable and multivariable analyses were used to analyze the risk factors for PNI. The t-test, Max-Relevance and Min-Redundancy (mRMR) and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) were used to select radiomics features. Radscores were calculated and logistic regression was applied to construct predictive models. A nomogram was developed by combining clinicopathological risk factors and the radscore. The area under the curve (AUC) values of receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, calibration curves and clinical decision curves were employed to evaluate the performance of the models. Kaplan–Meier analysis was used to study the impact of PNI on OS. Results: The univariable and multivariable analyses showed that the T stage, N stage and radscore were independent risk factors for PNI (p < 0.05). A nomogram based on the T stage, N stage and radscore was developed. The AUC of the combined model yielded 0.851 in the training set, 0.842 in the testing set and 0.813 in the validation set. The Kaplan–Meier analysis showed a statistically significant difference in OS between the PNI group and the non-PNI group (p < 0.05). Conclusions: A machine learning-based radiomics–clinicopathological model could effectively predict PNI in gastric cancer preoperatively through a non-invasive approach, and gastric cancer patients with PNI had relatively poor prognoses.
Chimeric Antigen Receptor T Cell and Chimeric Antigen Receptor NK Cell Therapy in Pediatric and Adult High-Grade Glioma—Recent Advances
Authors: Kowalczyk Adrian , Zarychta Julia , Marszołek Anna , Zawitkowska Joanna , Lejman Monika
Published: January 2024

High-grade gliomas (HGG) account for approximately 10% of central nervous system (CNS) tumors in children and 25% of CNS tumors in adults. Despite their rare occurrence, HGG are a significant clinical problem. The standard therapeutic procedure in both pediatric and adult patients with HGG is the surgical resection of the tumor combined with chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Despite intensive treatment, the 5-year overall survival in pediatric patients is below 20–30%. This rate is even lower for the most common HGG in adults (glioblastoma), at less than 5%. It is, therefore, essential to search for new therapeutic methods that can extend the survival rate. One of the therapeutic options is the use of immune cells (T lymphocytes/natural killer (NK) cells) expressing a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR). The objective of the following review is to present the latest results of preclinical and clinical studies evaluating the efficacy of CAR-T and CAR-NK cells in HGG therapy.
Evaluation of Bias-Corrected GCM CMIP6 Simulation of Sea Surface Temperature over the Gulf of Guinea
Authors: Ideki Oye , Lupo Anthony R.
Published: January 2024

This study used an ERA5 reanalysis SST dataset re-gridded to a common grid with a 0.25° × 0.25° spatial resolution (latitude × longitude) for the historical (1940–2014) and projected (2015–2100) periods. The SST simulation under the SSP5-8.5 scenario was carried out with outputs from eight General Circulation Models (GCMs). The bias-corrected dataset was developed using Empirical Quantile Mapping (EQM) for the historical (1940–2015) and future (2030–2100) periods while the CMIP6 model simulation was evaluated against the ERA5 monthly observed reanalysis data for temperatures over the Gulf of Guinea. Overall, the CMIP6 models’ future simulations in 2030–20100 based on the SSP5-8.5 scenario indicate that SSTs are projected, for the Gulf of Guinea, to increase by 4.61 °C, from 31 °C in the coast in 2030 to 35 °C in 2100, and 2.6 °C in the Western GOG (Sahel). The Linux-based Ncview, Ferret, and the CDO (Climate Data Operator) software packages were used to perform further data re-gridding and assess statistical functions concerning the data. In addition, ArcGIS was used to develop output maps for visualizing the spatial trends of the historical and future outputs of the GCM. The correlation coefficient (r) was used to evaluate the performance of the CMIP6 models, and the analysis showed ACCESS 0.1, CAMS CSM 0.2, CAN ESM 0.3, CMCC 0.3, and MCM 0.4, indicating that all models performed well in capturing the climatological patterns of the SSTs. The CMIP6 bias-corrected model simulations showed that increased SST warming over the GOG will be higher in the far period than the near-term climate scenario. This study affirms that the CMIP6 projections can be used for multiple assessments related to climate and hydrological impact studies and for the development of mitigation measures under a warming climate.
Efficacy of Touch Imprint Cytology in Intraoperative Diagnosis of Invasive Mucinous Adenocarcinoma of the Lung: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Kato Toshihiko , Higuchi Yumiko , Oshima Mei , Endo Fuki , Sato Fuminori , Sugihara Shiro , Yamamoto Manabu , Imai Yasuo
Published: January 2024

A preoperative diagnosis of the peripheral small lung nodule is often difficult, and an intraoperative frozen section diagnosis (FSD) is performed to guide treatment strategy. However, invasive mucinous adenocarcinoma (IMA) is prone to be overlooked because of the low sample quality and weak atypia. We herein report a case of IMA, in which touch imprint cytology (TIC) revealed diagnostic efficacy. A 74-year-old male with a small, subsolid nodule in the right upper lobe underwent a thoracoscopic wedge resection. A grayish brown, 10 × 7 mm-sized nodule was observed on the cut surface. Intraoperative FSD revealed lung tissue with mild alveolar septal thickening and stromal fibrosis but without overt atypia. Meanwhile, TIC revealed mucus and a few epithelial cells with intranuclear inclusions, which pathologists evaluated as reactive. Finally, focal organizing pneumonia was tentatively diagnosed, and surgery was finished without any additional resection. However, permanent section diagnosis revealed a microinvasive mucinous adenocarcinoma. Nuclear inclusions were confirmed in tumor cells. In the intraoperative setting, TIC may be more advantageous than FSD in observing nuclear inclusions and mucus. Mucinous background and nuclear inclusion on TIC may suggest IMA even if FSD does not suggest malignancy in an intraoperative diagnosis of the peripheral small lung nodule.
Nose-to Brain Delivery of Resveratrol, a Non-Invasive Method for the Treatment of Cerebral Ischemia
Authors: Alquisiras-Burgos Iván , González-Herrera Irma Gabriela , Alcalá-Alcalá Sergio , Aguilera Penélope
Published: January 2024

Cerebral ischemia represents a particular condition among neurological diseases due to its high frequency, high associated mortality, and the permanent disability in patients that survive it. Numerous studies in animal models have demonstrated the protective properties of resveratrol against cerebral ischemia. Resveratrol is a soluble molecule in polar solvents with high membrane permeability; however, it is rapidly metabolized at the liver and is also a substrate of the ATP binding cassette transporters located at the blood–brain barrier. These circumstances reduced bioavailability of resveratrol to the brain. In this review, we examined nasal resveratrol’s formulations including nanocarriers such as nanostructured lipid carriers, nanoemulsions, nanoparticles, bilosomes, cubosomal, and transferosomes that are directly transported to the brain. An intranasal administration route evades resveratrol transformation due to liver metabolism. Components of nanoformulations increased resveratrol absorption to the brain by enhancing permeation through specific approaches and also maintaining stability during storage. Both characteristics improved the delivery of resveratrol with conserved antioxidant capacity and protective properties for neurological models. Although demonstration that the nanoformulations prevents resveratrol’s blood–brain barrier retention is missing, properties of resveratrol’s nanoformulation encourage testing in clinical trials; however, regulatory approval for a novel nanocarrier in nasal drug delivery is complicated and needs approval.
Multimodality Imaging of Primary Hepatic Lymphoma: A Case Report and a Literature Review
Authors: Taiji Ryosuke , Marugami Nagaaki , Marugami Aki , Itoh Takahiro , Shimizu Sho , Nakano Ryota , Hoda Yuki , Kunichika Hideki , Tachiiri Tetsuya , Minamiguchi Kiyoyuki , Yamauchi Satoshi , Tanaka Toshihiro
Published: January 2024

Primary hepatic lymphoma (PHL) is a rare form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma primarily affecting the liver. We present a case of an 84-year-old man diagnosed with PHL, incidentally detected during abdominal ultrasonography. The ultrasonography showed a hypoechoic nodule. When examined by CEUS, the nodule showed hyperenhancement in the arterial phase and hypoenhancement in the portal and late phases. Conversely, CECT demonstrated hypoenhancement through all the phases. The patient declined a tumor biopsy and opted for follow-up care. Ten months later, the lobular mass had increased from 15 mm to 65 mm, presenting as hypoechogenic and demonstrating the “vessel-penetrating sign” on color Doppler imaging. CEUS revealed reticulated enhancement, indicating intratumoral vessels. The mass displayed hypoattenuation on plain CT, hypointensity in T1-weighted images, and hyperintensity in T2-weighted images and exhibited significant restriction in diffusion-weighted images. Both CECT and contrast-enhanced MRI exhibited hypoenhancement. The patient underwent a partial hepatic segmentectomy, and the mass was pathologically diagnosed as a diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. Subsequent postoperative radiological examinations revealed no other lesions, confirming the diagnosis of PHL. Our report highlights specific ultrasonographic signs of PHL observed from an early stage and presents a review of the relevant literature.
Comparative Analysis of Endodontic 0.15 Stainless-Steel K-Files: Exploring Design, Composition, and Mechanical Performance
Authors: Baruwa Abayomi Omokeji , Chasqueira Filipa , Arantes-Oliveira Sofia , Caramês João , Marques Duarte , Portugal Jaime , Martins Jorge N. R.
Published: January 2024

To establish a glide path, smaller files (up to size 0.15) with tapers of 2% are commonly used as pathfinding files. They pre-shape the root canal space before transitioning to larger taper endodontic instruments, aiming to prevent procedural errors. This study aimed to compare the design, metal wire composition, and mechanical characteristics of seven different ISO size 15 stainless-steel hand files (K-File and C-File+). Ninety-one new stainless-steel ISO 15 K-files were mechanically tested. All files were inspected for deformations before the assessment. Dental operating microscope, scanning electron microscope (SEM), and optical microscope analyses were conducted on four randomly selected instruments from each group, and two instruments per group underwent an energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) analysis. Buckling mechanical tests were performed using an Instron universal testing machine, and microhardness was assessed using a Vickers hardness tester. The statistical analysis employed the nonparametric Mood’s median test, with a significance level set at 0.05. The instrument design analysis unveiled variations in the active blade area length and the number of spirals, while maintaining consistent cross-sections and symmetrical blades. Distinct tip geometries and surface irregularities were observed. While the energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy confirmed similar compositions, the buckling strength and microhardness values exhibited variability across for all tested files. Notably, the Dentsply ReadySteel C-File+ recorded the highest buckling value (2.10 N), and the Dentsply ReadySteel K-File exhibited the lowest (1.00 N) (p < 0.05). Moreover, the Dentsply ReadySteel K-File recorded the highest microhardness value (703 HVN), while the SybronEndo Triple-Flex had the lowest (549 HVN) (p < 0.05). While similarities in cross-section design and metal wire composition were noted among the files, variations in the number of spirals and mechanical performance were also observed. Thus, all of these factors should be considered when selecting suitable files for an efficient root canal treatment.
Of Microscopes and Meeting Places: A Literature Review Examining Barriers to Indigenous Participation in STEM
Authors: Bollinger Madeline , McSkimming Brian M.
Published: January 2024

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) was once not seen as a place for everyone. In fact, a powerful majority of people believed that individuals had to have predetermined characteristics that made them able to bear such vast and liberating knowledge. Centuries later, concentrated efforts are still needed to reverse the damage that the prevalence of such an ideology caused. When one considers the exclusion of individuals from a particular field, they may only see one side of the story; they may think that the only factor stopping the out-group from participating is the in-group trying to keep them out. The bigger picture tells the story of the consequences of enduring exclusion of the out-group, even well after explicit exclusionary tactics cease to exist. The awareness and study of this phenomenon in regard to several groups of historically excluded people have expanded in the modern era, helping to reduce its lasting effects. Some groups continue to participate in STEM at a much lower rate than their peers. Native Americans are a particularly interesting example of this. This review will explore some of the various reasons posed for the way and rate at which Native Americans are involved in STEM education and will attempt to determine the prevalence of each explanation and their interactions with each other.
Perspectives of Distance Learning Students on How to Transform Their Computing Curriculum: “Is There Anything to Be Decolonised?”
Authors: Tompkins Zoe , Herman Clem , Ramage Magnus
Published: January 2024

Recent years have seen a growing momentum within UK Higher Education institutions to examine the colonial legacy entanglements of teaching materials and knowledge production, as institutions explore what it means to ‘decolonise the curriculum’. While the movement began in the University of Cape Town, South Africa, in response to a student call for the statue of Cecil Rhodes to be removed, elsewhere this has become a top-down imperative from institutions themselves. In 2014 University College London hosted a panel discussion ‘Why Isn’t My Professor Black’ building on the previous year’s video asking, ‘Why is my curriculum white’. By 2020 the #BlackLivesMatter movement once again illuminated the need to rebalance the power of who decides the ‘facts’ with a call for a transformation of knowledge production. Arts and Humanities curricula have been more easily adapted in response to this call, but the argument for decolonisation of STEM subjects in general and computing in particular have been more difficult to articulate. Moreover, the decolonisation shift has been largely confined to bricks and mortar universities, with little exploration of online and distance learning. This paper reports on an initiative in a British distance learning university to decolonise the computing curriculum, with a focus on students’ perspectives and what barriers might be encountered. A survey of just under 400 undergraduate computing students revealed multiple understandings about decolonisation, and reactions ranging from hostility and resistance to strong support and endorsement. Students identified several challenges to student engagement including structural and practical concerns which should inform the computing education community in taking forward this agenda.
Mid-Term and Long-Lasting Psycho–Cognitive Benefits of Bidomain Training Intervention in Elderly Individuals with Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Ayed Ines Ben , Aouichaoui Chirine , Ammar Achraf , Naija Salma , Tabka Oussama , Jahrami Haitham , Trabelsi Khaled , Trabelsi Yassine , El Massioui Nicole , El Massioui Farid
Published: January 2024

Background: This study investigated whether combining simultaneous physical and cognitive training yields superior cognitive outcomes compared with aerobic training alone in individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and whether these benefits persist after four weeks of detraining. Methods: Forty-four people with MCI (11 males and 33 females) aged 65 to 75 years were randomly assigned to an 8-week, twice-weekly program of either aerobic training (AT group, n = 15), aerobic training combined with cognitive games (ACT group, n = 15), or simply reading for controls (CG group, n = 14). Selective attention (Stroop), problem-solving (Hanoi Tower), and working memory (Digit Span) tasks were used to assess cognitive performances at baseline, in the 4th (W4) and 8th weeks (W8) of training, and after 4 weeks of rest (W12). Results: Both training interventions induced beneficial effects on all tested cognitive performance at W4 (except for the number of moves in the Hanoi tower task) and W8 (all p <0.001), with the ACT group exhibiting a more pronounced positive impact than the AT group (p < 0.05). This advantage was specifically observed at W8 in tasks such as the Stroop and Tower of Hanoi (% gain ≈40% vs. ≈30% for ACT and AT, respectively) and the digit span test (% gain ≈13% vs. ≈10% for ACT and AT, respectively). These cognitive improvements in both groups, with the greater ones in ACT, persisted even after four weeks of detraining, as evidenced by the absence of a significant difference between W8 and W12 (p > 0.05). Concerning neuropsychological assessments, comparable beneficial effects were recorded following both training regimens (all p < 0.05 from pre- to post-intervention). The control group did not show any significant improvement in most of the cognitive tasks. Conclusions: The greater mid-term and long-lasting effects of combined simultaneous physical–cognitive training underscores its potential as a cost-effective intervention for the prevention and management of cognitive decline. While these results are valuable in guiding optimal physical and mental activity recommendations for adults with MCI, further neurophysiological-based studies are essential to offer robust support and deepen our understanding of the mechanisms underlying these promising findings.
CMOS Analogue Velocity-Selective Neural Processing System
Authors: Sadrafshari Shamin , Simmich Sebastian , Metcalfe Benjamin , Prager Jon , Granger Nicolas , Donaldson Nick , Rieger Robert , Taylor John
Published: January 2024

Velocity-selective recording (VSR) of electroneurogram (ENG) signals is a frequently utilized technology in the field of neural recording with applications in clinical medicine and neuroprosthetics. VSR classifies excited axon populations in terms of their conduction velocities using multiple recordings of the same ENG signal and addition of the recording channels after introducing controlled time delays. This paper describes the first fully integrated analogue realization of the complete delay-and-add process with nine channels. The proposed approach uses switched-capacitor (SC) circuits and avoids the need for ADCs at the inputs of the delay-and-add circuit to achieve a small size and low power implementation. Simulated and measured results obtained from chips fabricated in 0.35 µm CMOS technology are reported. The system occupies a 1.16 mm2 active area and consumes 798 µW from a 3 V supply, while achieving a wide velocity detection range of 10–300 m/s with a precise relative velocity resolution down to 0.003. Intrinsic velocity spectra measured from synthetic ENG inputs confirm the operation of the system.
Exploring Hardware Fault Impacts on Different Real Number Representations of the Structural Resilience of TCUs in GPUs
Authors: Limas Sierra Robert , Guerrero-Balaguera Juan-David , Condia Josie E. Rodriguez , Sonza Reorda Matteo
Published: January 2024

The most recent generations of graphics processing units (GPUs) boost the execution of convolutional operations required by machine learning applications by resorting to specialized and efficient in-chip accelerators (Tensor Core Units or TCUs) that operate on matrix multiplication tiles. Unfortunately, modern cutting-edge semiconductor technologies are increasingly prone to hardware defects, and the trend to highly stress TCUs during the execution of safety-critical and high-performance computing (HPC) applications increases the likelihood of TCUs producing different kinds of failures. In fact, the intrinsic resiliency to hardware faults of arithmetic units plays a crucial role in safety-critical applications using GPUs (e.g., in automotive, space, and autonomous robotics). Recently, new arithmetic formats have been proposed, particularly those suited to neural network execution. However, the reliability characterization of TCUs supporting different arithmetic formats was still lacking. In this work, we quantitatively assessed the impact of hardware faults in TCU structures while employing two distinct formats (floating-point and posit) and using two different configurations (16 and 32 bits) to represent real numbers. For the experimental evaluation, we resorted to an architectural description of a TCU core (PyOpenTCU) and performed 120 fault simulation campaigns, injecting around 200,000 faults per campaign and requiring around 32 days of computation. Our results demonstrate that the posit format of TCUs is less affected by faults than the floating-point one (by up to three orders of magnitude for 16 bits and up to twenty orders for 32 bits). We also identified the most sensible fault locations (i.e., those that produce the largest errors), thus paving the way to adopting smart hardening solutions.
Fault Tracing Method for Relay Protection System–Circuit Breaker Based on Improved Random Forest
Authors: Shao Ning , Chen Qing , Yu Chengao , Xie Dan , Sun Ye
Published: January 2024

The incorrect operation of protective relays and circuit breakers will significantly compromise the safety and stability of power systems. To promptly detect the faults of the relay protection system and the circuit breakers in time and to ensure the operational reliability of these protective devices, this paper proposes a fault tracing method for a relay protection system–circuit breaker based on improved Random Forest. Firstly, an analysis is conducted to identify the causes of incorrect operation of the protective relay and the circuit breaker. The fault types and corresponding alarm messages for the relay protection system and the circuit breaker are categorized, and the alarm feature set is constructed. Then, the Random Forest is improved and trained to develop the fault tracking model. Finally, the operation evaluation process is developed to determine the incorrect operations of the protective relay and the circuit breaker, and the fault tracking model and fault tracking process are then employed to locate the faults of the relay protection system and the circuit breaker. The experimental results demonstrate the method’s capability to accurately track faults in the relay protection system and the circuit breaker, thereby assisting operation and maintenance personnel in troubleshooting and highlighting its promising practical potential.
A Hybrid Variable-Resolution GI without Prior Information
Authors: Han Bin , Zhou Dong , Shi Moudan , Cao Jie , Hao Qun
Published: January 2024

Ghost imaging (GI) is a novel imaging technique which realizes the fluctuation of the target light field through pattern modulation and obtains the target information in a non-local area. Compared with traditional imaging, GI has the advantages of a simple structure, strong anti-interference ability and imaging resolution beyond the diffraction limit. Illumination patterns are very important for GI, and they are divided into uniform resolution patterns and variable-resolution patterns. The variable-resolution patterns have the characteristics of high resolution in the foveal region and low resolution in the edge region, which can quickly improve the imaging efficiency of the foveal region. But there are still mass mutations and the inability to adapt imaging. Therefore, we propose a hybrid non-resolution-pattern design method and a two-step projection strategy. Simulations and experiments show that the proposed two-step projection strategy can accurately establish the corresponding relationship between the foveal region and the region of interest. The hybrid variable-resolution pattern design method can solve the problem of mass mutation between the foveal region and the edge region of fixed foveal patterns.
Batch Fermentation of Salt-Acclimatizing Microalga for Omega-3 Docosahexaenoic Acid Production Using Biodiesel-Derived Crude Glycerol Waste as a Low-Cost Substrate
Authors: Tanamool Varavut , Enmak Prayoon , Kaewkannetra Pakawadee
Published: January 2024

Biodiesel produced from waste cooking oil (WCO) is on the rise and inevitably leads to issues in managing glycerol waste. Due to the presence of colour, odour and other minor compounds, the refining costs for this type of glycerol are higher and uneconomical. The potential of biodiesel-derived glycerol waste (BDGW) obtained from WCO to produce the highly added product of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), also known as omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid, via the marine microalga of Schizochytrium limacinum ATCC MYA-1381 under aerobic batch fermentation was investigated. Cell growth, as well as DHA production, were performed under various operating conditions, including aeration rates and BDGW concentrations. The effect of the substrate type on cell growth and DHA yield was evaluated. The optimum operating condition was obtained when the air flow of a 0.25 vvm and 50 g/L of the glycerol concentration was fed into the fermenter and maximum cell dry weight (11.40 g/L) and DHA yield (665.52 mg/g) were achieved. However, cell growth and DHA yield were not significantly different when S. limacinum was grown using various carbon sources. Successfully, it clearly demonstrates that the BDGW can be used as a cheap carbon source for DHA production via marine microalgae using aerobic batch fermentation.
A Novel Image Encryption Algorithm Based on Compressive Sensing and a Two-Dimensional Linear Canonical Transform
Authors: Li Yuan-Min , Jiang Mingjie , Wei Deyun , Deng Yang
Published: January 2024

In this paper, we propose a secure image encryption method using compressive sensing (CS) and a two-dimensional linear canonical transform (2D LCT). First, the SHA256 of the source image is used to generate encryption security keys. As a result, the suggested technique is able to resist selected plaintext attacks and is highly sensitive to plain images. CS simultaneously encrypts and compresses a plain image. Using a starting value correlated with the sum of the image pixels, the Mersenne Twister (MT) is used to control a measurement matrix in compressive sensing. Then, the scrambled image is permuted by Lorenz’s hyper-chaotic systems and encoded by chaotic and random phase masks in the 2D LCT domain. In this case, chaotic systems increase the output complexity, and the independent parameters of the 2D LCT expand the key space of the suggested technique. Ultimately, diffusion based on addition and modulus operations yields a cipher-text image. Simulations showed that this cryptosystem was able to withstand common attacks and had adequate cryptographic features.
Game Theory Applications to Socio-Environmental Studies, Development Economics, and Sustainability Research
Authors: Sadik-Zada Elkhan Richard , Gatto Andrea , Aldieri Luigi , Bimonte Giovanna , Senatore Luigi , Vinci Concetto Paolo
Published: January 2024

The present investigation elaborates on the level of game theory application for the applied and theoretical analyses of climate change and development studies. This editorial shows that the common good character of global climate alongside the increasing internalization of environmental externalities through national regulations and international environmental treaties jointly result in the increasing congruence between the context of climate change problems and the game theoretical method. Furthermore, the adoption of the Paris Accord by the overwhelming majority of developing countries as well as the disproportionate vulnerability of the Global South have led to an increasing shift in focus with regard to international development cooperation, from poverty alleviation and economic growth to green growth and circular economy solutions, within developing countries. The underutilization of game theory in the context of development studies is not satisfactory. This paper underlines the importance of implementing an impetus to researchers for scholarly discussions and applications of game theory in a discourse on the following topics: 1. economic growth; 2. climate change mitigation and adaptation; and 3. a broader socioeconomic development.
NF-κB: Governing Macrophages in Cancer
Authors: Cornice Jessica , Verzella Daniela , Arboretto Paola , Vecchiotti Davide , Capece Daria , Zazzeroni Francesca , Franzoso Guido
Published: January 2024

Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are the major component of the tumor microenvironment (TME), where they sustain tumor progression and or-tumor immunity. Due to their plasticity, macrophages can exhibit anti- or pro-tumor functions through the expression of different gene sets leading to distinct macrophage phenotypes: M1-like or pro-inflammatory and M2-like or anti-inflammatory. NF-κB transcription factors are central regulators of TAMs in cancers, where they often drive macrophage polarization toward an M2-like phenotype. Therefore, the NF-κB pathway is an attractive therapeutic target for cancer immunotherapy in a wide range of human tumors. Hence, targeting NF-κB pathway in the myeloid compartment is a potential clinical strategy to overcome microenvironment-induced immunosuppression and increase anti-tumor immunity. In this review, we discuss the role of NF-κB as a key driver of macrophage functions in tumors as well as the principal strategies to overcome tumor immunosuppression by targeting the NF-κB pathway.
Poor Glycemic Control Increases Dental Risk in a Sri Lankan Population
Authors: Steigmann Larissa , Gunaratnam Sejal , Giannobile William V. , Van Til Monica , Daignault-Newton Stephanie , Herman William H. , Gunaratnam Naresh , Katulanda Prasad , Sarma Aruna V.
Published: January 2024

Introduction: The aim of our study was to investigate the impact of diabetes-related factors on the dental disease outcomes of diabetes patients in Trincomalee, Sri Lanka. Materials and Methods: Dental data were collected from 80 type-2-diabetic individuals. A dental risk score was calculated based on the frequency of dental outcomes observed and categorized as low risk (≤3 dental outcomes) and high risk (>3 dental outcomes). Results: In this cohort of men and women with type 2 diabetes, there was a high frequency of periodontal related outcomes, including missing teeth (70%), gingival recessions (40%), tooth mobility (41%), and bleeding (20%). Thirty-nine (39%) of participants had high dental risk, while forty-nine (61%) had low risk. Conclusions: After controlling for age, participants with higher capillary blood glucose levels had 3-fold greater odds of a high dental risk score (OR = 2.93, 95%CI = 1.13, 7.61). We found that poor glycemic control indicated by elevated capillary blood glucose was associated with increased dental risk.
Preventing Glass Misting in Indoor Showcases with Burial Remains at Al Ain, UAE
Authors: Camuffo Dario , Giorio Roberta , della Valle Antonio , Rizzi Francesco , Barucco Patrizia , Suma Marivita , Ahmed Jalal , Chabbi Amel , Shaker Ola , Sheehan Peter
Published: January 2024

The historic house of Sheikh Mohammed Bin Khalifa, Al Ain (Abu Dhabi, UAE) belongs to the World Heritage Cultural Sites. The courtyard and two rooms include mudbrick archaeological remains that are preserved in showcases for public display. The building lies in a hot desert climate and needs air conditioning to be comfortable. This paper is concerned with indoor showcases and their compatibility with the indoor climate. Sometimes, misting for condensation is generated on the glass panes for the temperature and humidity contrast between the room climate and the showcases that are embedded in the floor. When misting occurs, the remains cannot be viewed. This paper investigates indoor glass misting, the exchanges of heat and moisture between archaeological remains, showcases and rooms, and the results after a year of environmental monitoring. An aim is to assess the potential risks for the preservation of the remains, recognizing the frequency and severity of the conditions for condensation. Another aim is to discuss mitigation methodologies to avoid glass misting, e.g., (i) reducing the room cooling; (ii) raising the glass pane temperature with electrical devices; (iii) increasing air exchanges between showcases and rooms; (iv) adopting a combination of these methodologies.
A Simple Risk Formula for the Prediction of COVID-19 Hospital Mortality
Authors: Plášek Jiří , Dodulík Jozef , Gai Petr , Hrstková Barbora , Škrha Jan , Zlatohlávek Lukáš , Vlasáková Renata , Danko Peter , Ondráček Petr , Čubová Eva , Čapek Bronislav , Kollárová Marie , Fürst Tomáš , Václavík Jan
Published: January 2024

SARS-CoV-2 respiratory infection is associated with significant morbidity and mortality in hospitalized patients. We aimed to assess the risk factors for hospital mortality in non-vaccinated patients during the 2021 spring wave in the Czech Republic. A total of 991 patients hospitalized between January 2021 and March 2021 with a PCR-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 acute respiratory infection in two university hospitals and five rural hospitals were included in this analysis. After excluding patients with unknown outcomes, 790 patients entered the final analyses. Out of 790 patients included in the analysis, 282/790 (35.7%) patients died in the hospital; 162/790 (20.5) were male and 120/790 (15.2%) were female. There were 141/790 (18%) patients with mild, 461/790 (58.3%) with moderate, and 187/790 (23.7%) with severe courses of the disease based mainly on the oxygenation status. The best-performing multivariate regression model contains only two predictors—age and the patient’s state; both predictors were rendered significant (p < 0.0001). Both age and disease state are very significant predictors of hospital mortality. An increase in age by 10 years raises the risk of hospital mortality by a factor of 2.5, and a unit increase in the oxygenation status raises the risk of hospital mortality by a factor of 20.
The Demographic Variation in Nutrition Knowledge and Relationship with Eating Attitudes among Chinese University Students
Authors: Deng Wen-Jing , Yi Ziyue , Lee John Chi-Kin
Published: January 2024

There is a noticeable absence of health education among college students. This study aimed to evaluate the extent of general nutrition knowledge among Chinese university students and explore its association with eating attitudes. Data were collected from a group of 273 students in Spring of 2023, using a valid and reliable research instrument consisting of three sections: demographic variables, the General Nutrition Knowledge Questionnaire (GNKQ), and the Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26). The results were analyzed using SPSS, with correlations and t-tests to examine the relationships between nutritional knowledge and dietary attitudes. Furthermore, the present study employed the random forest (RF) algorithm, a machine learning technique, utilizing the Mean Decrease Impurity (MDI) method to investigate the influence of various features on participants’ eating attitudes. The findings revealed that Chinese university students had an average accuracy of over 60% in their nutritional knowledge, but their understanding of the relationship between diet and disease still needs improvement. Moreover, male students had significantly lower nutritional knowledge than female students, and there was a positive correlation between nutritional knowledge and parents’ income. The study also found a significant correlation between the level of nutritional knowledge and eating attitudes. RF results indicated that the family income level exhibited the most substantial impact on the eating attitudes of the participants. The study highlights the need for nutrition education curriculum developers to focus more on improving students’ nutritional knowledge, with particular attention given to male students, low-income individuals, and those with an abnormal BMI.
Comment on Balwierz et al. Potential Carcinogens in Makeup Cosmetics. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20, 4780
Authors: Sergent Jacques-Aurélien , Nolde Juergen , Weber Klaus , Schuster Tobias B. , Moise Valerie , Keller Wolfgang , Franklin Jenny
Published: January 2024

The article by Balwierz et al [...]