bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Machine Learning and Deep Learning Approaches for Energy Prediction: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Nanjar Agi , Saputro Rujianto Eko , Berlilana Berlilana
Published: November 2024

This paper offers a literature review on the application of Machine Learning (ML) and Deep Learning (DL) techniques in energy prediction. Contemporary energy systems' challenges, such as load fluctuations and uncertainties linked to renewable energy sources, render traditional methods like ARIMA and linear regression insufficient. The objective of this paper is to identify the most widely used ML and DL approaches, compare their performance against conventional methods, and explore the implementation challenges along with potential solutions. The methodology for this literature review involves analyzing publications from Scopus, IEEE Xplore, and ScienceDirect covering the period from 2019 to 2024. The findings indicate that DL methods, particularly Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) and Gated Recurrent Unit (GRU) networks, are effective in handling sequential data, while hybrid models like CNN-GRU enhance prediction accuracy in innovative grid applications. Challenges identified include overfitting and data complexity, which can be addressed through regularization techniques and computational optimization using GPUs. In conclusion, this paper asserts that ML and DL play a significant role in improving prediction accuracy and facilitating the transition towards sustainable energy and smart grids. To further enhance performance in the future, the paper recommends the development of ensemble models and the integration of attention mechanisms.
DINAMIKA SHARING ECONOMY: APROPRIASI KARYA DESAIN GRAFIS MELALUI CROWDSOURCING
Authors: Bangsa Gogor , Udasmoro Wening , Noviani Ratna
Published: November 2024

Penelitian ini mengkaji bagaimana praktik crowdsourcing dalam kontes desain grafis di platform digital memunculkan bentuk baru dari eksploitasi di era kapitalisme digital. Penelitian ini berfokus pada dua kelompok utama: komunitas desainer grafis online otodidak di desa Kaliabu, Kecamatan Salaman, Kabupaten Magelang, Jawa Tengah, dan para desainer grafis online akademis di Yogyakarta. Dengan menggunakan teori Christian Fuchs mengenai tenaga kerja digital (digital labour), penelitian ini menggambarkan bagaimana desainer terlibat dalam kontes desain tanpa adanya jaminan kompensasi, yang pada akhirnya menciptakan nilai lebih (surplus value) yang dieksploitasi oleh kapitalis digital. Melalui studi kasus dan wawancara mendalam dengan desainer dari kedua kelompok, penelitian ini mengungkapkan bahwa digitalisasi kerja memberikan keuntungan ganda bagi pemilik platform digital. Mereka dapat memanfaatkan tenaga kerja gratis yang disumbangkan oleh desainer, serta mendapatkan keuntungan dari apropriasi data dan karya yang dihasilkan desainer tanpa kompensasi yang layak. Dalam proses ini, apropriasi terjadi ketika karya-karya yang tidak memenangkan kontes dan data pribadi desainer digunakan oleh pihak ketiga tanpa sepengetahuan atau izin mereka, menjadikan desainer sebagai subjek eksploitasi yang tidak hanya merugikan secara finansial tetapi juga dalam aspek data pribadi mereka. Penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa praktik-praktik crowdsourcing dalam industri desain grafis digital perlu ditinjau kembali.
Searching for Performance in the Legal Archive: On the Fragments and Petrified Remnants of Parliamentary Human Rights Scrutiny
Authors: Mulcahy Sean , Seear Kate
Published: November 2024

As researchers of the ‘legal performance’ of parliamentary human rights scrutiny, we often confront the overwhelmingly textual legal archive and find absences and gaps in the way that processes are documented. These textual records are but remnants of the legal performance or what Molderings might term ‘a fragmentary, petrified vestige of a lively process that took place at a different time in a different place.’ In this article, we deploy this idea of ‘fragments’, which has also been deployed by other critical legal scholars working in and with archives, to explore how we confront archival gaps and use the fragments and remnants of performance that remain to make informed speculation on the often behind-closed-doors legal performance of parliamentary human rights scrutiny. Our article considers the methodological challenges of examining legal performance from its archives and questions whether there are other, better ways of documenting and archiving law and legal performances.
HIV Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors among Female Bar Waitresses in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
Authors: Bazié Wilfried Wenceslas , Traoré Tiandiogo Isidore , Sanon Anselme , Tassembedo Souleymane , Millogo Adjara , Taofiki Ajani Ousmane , Zoundi Yvette , Konaté Issouf
Published: November 2024

In Burkina Faso, despite the decline in HIV prevalence to below 1% in the general population since 2013, it remains high among key populations composed primarily of female sex workers (FSWs). FSWs are a heterogeneous group with various risks and practices. Within this composite group, less attention has been paid to female bar waitresses (FBWs). We conducted a cross-sectional study to investigate HIV prevalence and associated factors among FBWs in Bobo-Dioulasso.

After bar mapping and outreach on the benefits of HIV testing, FBWs from various drinking establishments were invited to visit the Yerelon clinic for free HIV testing and free medical care for sexually transmitted infections and other diseases from October 2012 to September 2014. Mobile HIV testing was also implemented to reach waitresses at their workplace.

Between October 2012 to September 2014, 513 FBWs were tested at least once for HIV. Their median age was 26 years with an interquartile range ((IQR) of 21-30). The overall HIV prevalence among waitresses was 10.9% (95% CI: 8.45 – 14.07). HIV prevalence was higher in the fixed strategy at the Yerelon clinic 17.3% (95% CI: 13.0 – 22.2) as compared to the mobile strategy 3.4% (95% CI: 1.4 – 6.6). In the multivariate model, being older than 25 years (AOR = 5.1, 95% IC: 2.3 – 11.2) and being tested in the Yerelon clinic (AOR= 5.5, 95% IC: 2.5 – 12.1) remained strong predictors of HIV infection among FBWs.

In summary, HIV prevalence remains higher among FBW than in the general population and justifies their classification as high HIV risk groups. As the HIV epidemic becomes concentrated in key populations and a combination of HIV prevention is promoted, all categories of female sex workers as well as their clients must be considered for an appropriate response.
Variant (rs2576178) of Renalase Gene and Its Association with End Stage Renal Disease Patients in Hilla Province
Authors: Jameel Zahraa Isam , Omran Rabab , Mahmood Ammad Hassan
Published: November 2024

Renalase, a newly discovered flavin-adenine dinucleotide-dependent amine oxidase released by the kidney, circulates in the blood and has an impact on heart function and systemic blood pressure. We conducted the research in Babylon from February to July of 2016. We collected 50 blood samples from patients with end stage renal disease admitted to Merjan Teaching Hospital in Babylon Province, Iraq. In addition to the control group (50 samples) of healthy people aged 11 to 80, all patients and control groups were from the same ethnic group (Arab). The current study's findings revealed the mean variation of renalase level (pg/ml) across patient and control groups. Renalase levels were much higher (P <0.05) in the serum of people with end-stage renal disease (184.21± 4.97 pg/ml) than in the healthy group (44.06 ±7.21 pg/ml). The findings showed that people with end-stage renal failure were more likely to have GG, GA, and AA in the renalase (RNLS) gene (18%, 20%, and 62%) than people in the control group (19.3%, 22%, and 58.7%). In the Iraqi population, the Renalase (rs2576178) G>A mutation was not related with vulnerability to end-stage renal failure.
Forsker-praktiker-samarbejde som et ligeværdigt videns- og læringsrum: Et didaktisk anliggende
Authors: Rohwedder Anne-Birgitte Nyhus , Møller Britta , Kordovsky Julie
Published: November 2024

This article explores collaboration between research, education, and practice in vocational education and training, framed as a knowledge triangle. The purpose is to offer insight into how knowledge triangle collaboration can be designed didactically to facilitate an equitable knowledge and learning space, in which the perception of research as the producer and owner of knowledge and idea of knowledge transfer are reconsidered. Based in a self-study methodology, empirical experiences from a network meeting between researchers and practitioners are analysed. The theoretical exploration of knowledge collaboration is done in two parts. Firstly, by referring to Dewey’s understanding of knowledge, didactic principles for a network meeting are analysed. Secondly, Wenger-Trayner and Wenger-Trayner’s conceptualisation of social learning spaces is used to understand interactions between didactic principles and network participants. The study highlights the importance of embracing uncertainty and maintaining self-critical dialogue in knowledge collaboration. Ethical considerations arise regarding egalitarianism in researcher-practitioner collaboration, emphasising the need for ongoing dialogue and adaptation.
Developing of knowledge in practice-based research: Research circles as an example
Authors: Wahlgren Bjarne , Aarkrog Vibe
Published: November 2024

The article deals with the research circle method as a way of conducting practice-based research. Based on data from a research project about drop-out in vocational education and training we analyse the process of generating knowledge and the researcher’s role in this process. The empirical data include written material from the circle work and interviews with the practitioners in the research circles concerning the knowledge developing process.
Three kinds of knowledge have been generated: Knowledge based on the practitioner’s experiences, knowledge based on an interplay between existing practical knowledge and research-based knowledge, and new research-based knowledge. In the article we characterise the three types of knowledge and account for the challenges related to the knowledge generating process. Furthermore, we describe the researchers’ roles related to developing the three kinds of knowledge. Based on data from the project, we argue that bridging the gap between practice-based and research-based knowledge requires the ability to transform theoretical knowledge to apply the knowledge in real-world practices.
Climate change mitigation and adaptation through optical-wireless communication networks: applications, challenges, and opportunities
Authors: Mrabet Manel , Sliti Maha
Published: November 2024

There are a number of effects that are associated with climate change, some of which include an increase in the frequency of severe weather events, an increase in temperatures, and changes in the patterns of rainfall. The Sustainable Development Goal 13 (SDG13) established by the United Nations emphasizes the importance of reducing green house gas emissions, improving climate resilience, and mobilizing resources to effectively tackle climate change. The use of optical wireless communication (OWC) networks is a realistic approach that has the potential to improve climate resilience and sustainable development. However, in order to successfully integrate OWC with climate change mitigation activities, it is necessary to overcome a number of obstacles. In addition to economic factors, the limitations encompass a range of obstacles and intricate legal frameworks. The purpose of this article is to study the ways in which OWC can contribute to the mitigation and adaptation to climate change effects within SGD 13, with a special emphasis on the challenges and opportunities related to its implementation.
Comparison of patients undergoing protected high risk percutaneous coronary intervention using either intravascular lithotripsy or rotational atherectomy
Authors: Krause Tobias T. , Afzal Shazia S. , Gjata Anida , Lindner Michael , Saad Louai , Steinbach Mirjam , Zayat Rashad , Haneya Assad , Werner Nikos , Leick Juergen
Published: November 2024

Background

Treating heavily calcified vessels is a challenging task in patients with an impaired left ventricular ejection fraction. Percutaneous mechanical circulatory support (pMCS) is increasingly used in patients in high-risk percutaneous coronary intervention (HRPCI).

Methods

In this retrospective registry, we investigated 25 patients undergoing a protected HRPCI receiving either intravascular lithotripsy (IVL + pMCS; n = 11) or rotational atherectomy (RA + pMCS; n = 14). The primary endpoint was defined as peri-interventional hemodynamic stability. The secondary endpoint was defined as major adverse cardiac events (MACE).

Results

Patients in the IVL + pMCS group had a significantly higher mean arterial pressure (MAP) at the end of the procedure (p = 0.04). However, the Δ-change in MAP was not significant [−12 mmHg (±20.3) vs. −16.1 mmHg (±23.9), p = 0.709]. The proportion of patients requiring post-interventional catecholamines was significantly lower in the IVL + pMCS group (p = 0.02). The Δ-change in Syntax Score was not significant between groups (IVL + pMCS −22 (±5.8) vs. RA + pMCS −21.2 (±7.6), p = 0.783). MACE did occur less in the group of IVL + pMCS (0% vs. 20%, p = 0.046). Patients with pMCS insertion as a bailout strategy had a higher probability for in-hospital death (p < 0.001) and the occurrence of the slow-reflow phenomenon was associated with long-term mortality (p = 0.021) in the cox regression analysis.

Conclusions

In our cohort patients in the IVL + pMCS group were hemodynamically more stable which led to a lower rate of catecholamine usage. pMCS as a bailout strategy was associated with in-hospital death and the occurrence of the slow reflow phenomenon with all-cause mortality during follow-up.
Study on strength and constitutive model of frozen calcareous clay under multi-factor interaction
Authors: Feng Jihao , Rong Chuanxin , Shi Hao , Wang Bin , Wang Zhi , Guo Longhui , Tu Zhuo , Long Wei , Wu Dong , Wang Xueyan
Published: November 2024

The investigation into the complex mechanical properties of frozen calcareous clay under multi-factor interaction holds significant importance for the reliability and durability of engineering in cold regions. This study investigates the strength properties of frozen calcareous clay under different interaction levels by designing a four-factor, four-level orthogonal test that incorporates temperature, confining pressure, dry density, and water content. The study aimed to assess the sensitivity of each factor to failure stress, and establish an intrinsic model based on the Duncan-Chang model considering temperature, confining pressure, and water content. The results indicated that the stress-strain curves exhibit strain-hardening characteristics across various interaction levels. These curves can be divided into elastic and elastic-plastic phases, with the slope of the elastic phase and the stress value at the inflection point increasing with decreasing temperature and increasing confining pressure. When the confining pressure is maintained constant, the failure stress is negatively correlated with temperature. When the temperature is maintained constant, the failure stress is positively correlated with confining pressure. Sensitivity analysis shows that the influence of each factor on failure stress is as follows: temperature > confining pressure > dry density > water content. Additionally, the influence of temperature and confining pressure on failure stress is markedly greater than that of water content and dry density. The evolution of unfrozen water content follows three stages: sharp reduction, rapid reduction, and slow reduction. Verification against experimental data confirmed that the modified constitutive model effectively reflects the stress-strain relationship of frozen calcareous clay under the interaction of multiple factors.
Measuring ethnocultural empathy in Japanese undergraduates: the validity and reliability of the Japanese version of the scale of ethnocultural empathy
Authors: Ostman David , Xethakis Larry
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The purpose of this study was to adapt the English version of the Scale of Ethnocultural Empathy (SEE) for use in the Japanese context and to determine the validity and reliability of the adapted version to allow for the measurement of cultural empathy and promote further research into this concept in Japan. The SEE is a widely-used measure of cultural empathy which has been adapted for use in a number of cultures (e.g., Turkish, Swedish, Spanish), however the validity and reliability of this scale in the Japanese context has yet to be determined. While recognition of the importance of learner empathy in intercultural interactions has increased, at present, a validated scale to measure ethnocultural empathy has not been presented.

Methods

Responses from 777 Japanese undergraduate students were used to determine the construct validity of the SEE using exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, as well as to assess the convergent validity of the scale using the Interpersonal Reactivity Index (IRI). Reliability was evaluated using Cronbach’s alpha and test-retest validity.

Results

Factor analysis revealed two factors underlying the Japanese version of the SEE (SEE_J), explaining 42.1% of variance. The two factors—Empathic Feeling and Expression (EFE_J) and Empathic Awareness and Perspective Taking (EAPT_J)—were moderately correlated. Correlations between the SEE_J, EFE_J and EAPT_J with two subscales of the IRI provided evidence of convergent validity. The SEE_J, EFE_J and EAPT_J displayed sufficient internal and test-retest reliability. Respondents reported significantly higher levels of EFE_J than EAPT_J, and women reported significantly higher SEE_J and EFE_J than men, both of which are similar to the results of past studies using the SEE in other cultural contexts.

Discussion

The validation of the SEE_J allows for the measurement of cultural empathy and further research into this concept in the Japanese context, as well as the development of programs to enhance ethnocultural empathy in areas where Japanese individuals come into contact with individuals from other cultures, such as counseling, healthcare and education.
Microbiomic insights into the oral microbiome’s role in type 2 diabetes mellitus: standardizing approaches for future advancements
Authors: Guan Huifang , Zhao Shuang , Tan Yuanfei , Fang Xinyi , Zhang Yuxin , Zhang Yanjiao , Miao Runyu , Yin Ruiyang , Yao Yiqi , Tian Jiaxing
Published: November 2024

The burgeoning field of microbiomics has unveiled significant insights into the role of the oral microbiome in the pathophysiology of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM), with this review focusing on recent advancements in diabetic oral microbiology, its clinical applications, and identifying factors that may affect study interpretations. A comprehensive review across various databases, including PubMed and Google Scholar, was conducted to collate original research data published in the past five years, specifically targeting studies exploring the impact of the oral microbiome on T2DM and emphasizing research that employs microbiomic approaches in clinical patient populations. The findings delineate the intricate interplay between T2DM and oral microbiome dysbiosis, highlighting significant microbial shifts following periodontal and antidiabetic treatments, and pointing to the complexity of the relationship between oral health and systemic disease. The observed oral microbial shifts in T2DM underscore the critical need for standardized research methodologies in microbiomic studies, suggesting that by adopting a unified approach, future research can more effectively elucidate the oral microbiome’s role in T2DM. This could pave the way for innovative diagnostic and therapeutic strategies in managing T2DM and its oral health complications, thus making a pertinent overview of the work within the field.
Country risks analysis for the development of green hydrogen and synthetic fuel sectors in the MENA region
Authors: Terrapon-Pfaff Julia , Ersoy Sibel Raquel , Prantner Magdolna , Viebahn Peter
Published: November 2024

Hydrogen plays a pivotal role in global efforts to decarbonize energy and industrial sectors. The European Union, particularly Germany, anticipate a significant reliance on hydrogen imports in the medium to long term, identifying the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region as a key potential producer and exporter of green hydrogen and its downstream products. Yet, investment risks pose significant challenges to advancing the region’s green hydrogen and synthetic fuel industries. However, systematic comparative risk analyses for these sectors across MENA countries remain limited. This study addresses the research gap by conducting a comparative risk assessment for renewable energy and green hydrogen and synthetic fuel development in 17 MENA countries. A comprehensive framework evaluating macro and micro risks was applied, along with two contrasting risk scenarios to explore future developments under different risk conditions. The findings reveal that while MENA countries hold promise, most face at least moderate risks, underscoring the complexity of fostering these industries regionally.
Unravelling the druggability and immunological roles of the SOCS-family proteins
Authors: Lynch Dylan M. , Forrester Beth , Webb Thomas , Ciulli Alessio
Published: November 2024

The Suppressor of Cytokine Signalling (SOCS) protein family play a critical role in cytokine signalling and regulation of the JAK/STAT pathway with functional consequences to the immune response. Members of this family are implicated in multiple different signalling cascades that drive autoimmune diseases and cancer, through their binding to phosphotyrosine modified proteins as well as ubiquitination activity as part of Cullin5 RING E3 ligases. Here we review the SOCS family members CISH and SOCS1-SOCS7, with a focus on their complex role in immunity. The interactome and signalling network of this protein family is discussed, and the intricate mechanisms through which SOCS proteins alter and manage the immune system are assessed. We offer structural insights into how SOCS proteins engage their interacting partners and native substrates at the protein-protein interaction level. We describe how this knowledge has enabled drug discovery efforts on SOCS proteins to date and propose strategies for therapeutic intervention using small molecules, either via direct inhibition or leveraging their E3 ligase activity for targeted protein degradation.
Direct and indirect RANK and CD40 signaling regulate the maintenance of thymic epithelial cell frequency and properties in the adult thymus
Authors: Hayama Mio , Ishii Hiroto , Miyauchi Maki , Yoshida Masaki , Hagiwara Naho , Muramtatu Wataru , Namiki Kano , Endo Rin , Miyao Takahisa , Akiyama Nobuko , Akiyama Taishin
Published: November 2024

Medullary thymic epithelial cells (mTECs) play a crucial role in suppressing the onset of autoimmunity by eliminating autoreactive T cells and promoting the development of regulatory T cells in the thymus. Although mTECs undergo turnover in adults, the molecular mechanisms behind this process remain unclear. This study describes the direct and indirect roles of receptor activator of NF-κB (RANK) and CD40 signaling in TECs in the adult thymus. Flow cytometric and single-cell RNA-seq (scRNA-seq) analyses suggest that the depletion of both RANK and CD40 signaling inhibits mTEC differentiation from CCL21+ mTEC progenitors to transit-amplifying TECs in the adult thymus. Unexpectedly, this depletion also exerts indirect effects on the gene expression of TEC progenitors and cortical TECs. Additionally, the expression levels of AP-1 genes, which enable the further subdivision of TEC progenitors, are up-regulated following the depletion of RANK and CD40 signaling. Overall, our data propose that RANK and CD40 signaling cooperatively maintain mature mTEC frequency in the adult thymus and sustain the characteristics of TEC progenitors through an indirect mechanism.
Profiling the gut structure and microbiota, and identifying two dominant bacteria belonging to the Weissella genus in mandarin fish (Siniperca chuatsi) fed an artificial diet
Authors: Wang Jiayu , Hao Yaotong , Zhang Lihan , Gao Xiaowei , Xu Yihuan , Wang Jiangjiang , Hanafiah Fazhan , Khor Waiho , Sun Yanfeng , Wu Chengbin
Published: November 2024

Mandarin fish (Siniperca chuatsi) fed with an artificial diet is progressively gaining popularity, which is important for reducing product prices and resource consumption. However, food is the decisive factor of intestinal microbes, and the profound effects of change in their feeding habit on intestinal microbes of mandarin fish have not been revealed. In the present study, live bait fish and artificial diet were used to feed mandarin fish for 8 weeks to study the effect of different feeding habits on the histology, microbiota structure and dominant bacteria of gut in mandarin fish. The results indicated that feeding with the artificial diet significantly increased the intestinal villi height and muscular thickness in the hindgut of mandarin fish. In addition, the microbiota results showed that there were significant differences of beta diversity of gut microbiota in mandarin fish fed with different diets. At the genus level, feeding artificial diets significantly increased the abundance of Weissella in the mandarin fish gut. Furthermore, two Weissella bacteria were identified and characterized from the midgut contents of mandarin fish fed with artificial diet. Based on 16S rRNA gene sequencing, nine strains were assigned as Weissella confusa (RM125), and one as Weissella cibaria (SJ548). Biochemical analyses based on the VITEK2 method revealed a pattern of metabolic activities against W. confusa RM125 and W. cibaria SJ548, with 13 positive and 29 negative results, respectively. W. confusa RM125 and W. cibaria SJ548 exhibited sensitivities toward a variety of pathogens, including V. harveyi, S. aureus and V. parahaemolyticus, E. coli, A. hydrophila, S. enterica, V. anguillarum, and V. alginolyticus, indicating potential probiotics. Therefore, our results confirmed that the transformation of feeding habit altered the structure, microbial composition and dominant bacteria in gut of mandarin fish, and provided evidence that Weissella might play a crucial role in the digestion and absorption of artificial diet in mandarin fish.
Exploring the therapeutic potential of different sources of mesenchymal stem cells: a novel approach to combat burn wound infections
Authors: Aliniay-Sharafshadehi Shahrzad , Yousefi Mohammad Hasan , Ghodratie Mohammad , Kashfi Mojtaba , Afkhami Hamed , Ghoreyshiamiri Seyed Mehdi
Published: November 2024

The most prevalent and harmful injuries are burns, which are still a major global health problem. Burn injuries can cause issues because they boost the inflammatory and metabolic response, which can cause organ malfunction and systemic failure. On the other hand, a burn wound infection creates an environment that is conducive to the growth of bacteria and might put the patient at risk for sepsis. In addition, scarring is unavoidable, and this results in patients having functional and cosmetic issues. Wound healing is an amazing phenomenon with a complex mechanism that deals with different types of cells and biomolecules. Cell therapy using stem cells is one of the most challenging treatment methods that accelerates the healing of burn wounds. Since 2000, the use of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in regenerative medicine and wound healing has increased. They can be extracted from various tissues, such as bone marrow, fat, the umbilical cord, and the amniotic membrane. According to studies, stem cell therapy for burn wounds increases angiogenesis, has anti-inflammatory properties, slows the progression of fibrosis, and has an excellent ability to differentiate and regenerate damaged tissue. Figuring out the main preclinical and clinical problems that stop people from using MSCs and then suggesting the right ways to improve therapy could help show the benefits of MSCs and move stem cell-based therapy forward. This review’s objective was to assess mesenchymal stem cell therapy’s contribution to the promotion of burn wound healing.
Olfactory neurofeedback: current state and possibilities for further development
Authors: Ninenko Ivan , Medvedeva Alexandra , Efimova Victoria L. , Kleeva Daria F. , Morozova Marina , Lebedev Mikhail A.
Published: November 2024

This perspective considers the novel concept of olfactory neurofeedback (O-NFB) within the framework of brain-computer interfaces (BCIs), where olfactory stimuli are integrated in various BCI control loops. In particular, electroencephalography (EEG)-based O-NFB systems are capable of incorporating different components of complex olfactory processing – from simple discrimination tasks to using olfactory stimuli for rehabilitation of neurological disorders. In our own work, EEG theta and alpha rhythms were probed as control variables for O-NFB. Additionaly, we developed an olfactory-based instructed-delay task. We suggest that the unique functions of olfaction offer numerous medical and consumer applications where O-NFB is combined with sensory inputs of other modalities within a BCI framework to engage brain plasticity. We discuss the ways O-NFB could be implemented, including the integration of different types of olfactory displays in the experiment set-up and EEG features to be utilized. We emphasize the importance of synchronizing O-NFB with respiratory rhythms, which are known to influence EEG patterns and cognitive processing. Overall, we expect that O-NFB systems will contribute to both practical applications in the clinical world and the basic neuroscience of olfaction.
Extrinsic electric field modulates neuronal development and increases photoreceptor population in retinal organoids
Authors: Rajendran Nair Deepthi S. , Gupta Anika , Iseri Ege , Wei Tianyuan , Phuong Quach Le Tam , Seiler Magdalene J. , Lazzi Gianluca , Thomas Biju B.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Considering the significant role played by both intrinsic and extrinsic electric fields in the growth and maturation of the central nervous system, the impact of short exposure to external electric fields on the development and differentiation of retinal organoids was investigated.

Methods

Retinal organoids derived from human embryonic stem cells were used at day 80, a key stage in their differentiation. A single 60-minute exposure to a biphasic electrical field was administered to assess its influence on retinal cell populations and maturation markers. Immunohistochemistry, qPCR, and RNA sequencing were employed to evaluate cell type development and gene expression changes.

Results

Electrical stimulation significantly enhanced neuronal development and increased the population of photoreceptors within the organoids. RNA sequencing data showed upregulated expression of genes related to rod photoreceptors, Müller cells, horizontal cells, and amacrine cells, while genes associated with retinal pigment epithelium and retinal ganglion cells were downregulated. Variations in development and maturation were observed depending on the specific parameters of the applied electric field.

Discussion

These findings highlight the significant impact of extrinsic electrical fields on early retinal development and suggest that optimizing electrical field parameters could effectively address certain limitations in retinal organoid technology, potentially reducing the reliance on chemicals and small molecules.
Tilt training as a treatment for reflex syncope: a multimodal approach!?
Authors: Hornikx Miek , Haemers Peter , Stans Linda , Robyns Tomas , Garweg Christophe , Ector Joris , Vandenberk Bert , Willems Rik
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Reflex syncope is a burdensome disease with considerable repercussions on the quality of life. Tilt training is a therapeutic option, but evidence on this topic is scarce and outdated. Hyperventilation is oftentimes associated with reflex syncope. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of tilt training in patients with reflex syncope and study the association between reflex syncope and hyperventilation.

Methods

Patients referred for tilt training after a positive tilt test from July 2014 to March 2021 were included in a single-center, retrospective registry. Demographic characteristics and outcomes of the program were collected. The response of tilt training on (pre)syncope recurrence and the association with hyperventilation were studied.

Results

A total of 173 patients were included. The median age was 27 [17–48] years. Patients needed 2 [1–3] sessions to reach the first negative tilt training. The tilt training program was successfully completed by 65% of patients. An additional 3% reported no complaints in daily life, despite remaining symptomatic during tilt training. Another therapy was initiated in 10% of patients, while 21% dropped out of the tilt training. Presyncope recurred in 21% of patients during a follow-up period of 21 months [16–23]. Concomitant hyperventilation was suspected in 24%. Among these patients, 74% were referred for a hyperventilation provocation test, which confirmed the diagnosis in 82%.

Conclusion

We report a reasonable success of tilt training in a contemporary cohort of patients. In patients completing the tilt training program, presyncope, and syncope recurrence was low. Concomitant hyperventilation seems prevalent in patients with reflex syncope and warrants specific attention and treatment.
Perineural spread evaluation of cranial nerves in nasopharyngeal carcinoma: superiority and reliability of isovolumetric MR imaging
Authors: Zheng Dechun , Xu Shugui , Lai Guojing , Hu ChunMiao , Cao Xisheng , Feng Meimei , Peng Li
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate the advantage of three-dimensional liver acquisition with volume acceleration-flexible (3D LAVA_Flex) for perineural spread (PNS) status of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) in comparison with two-dimensional magnetic resonance sequences.

Materials and methods

Sixty pathological proved NPC patients were prospective enrolled. A protocol included T2-weighted imaging with fat suppression (T2WI fs), T1-weighted imaging (T1WI) without and with contrast enhancement (T1WI ce), and 3D LAVA_Flex was applied for the recruited subject. After determining radiologic diagnostic criteria, the PNS status of cranial nerves (CNs) was carefully interpreted and recorded at the nerve level, anterior and posterior subgroup level, and individual level, respectively. Chi-square test [or McNemar-Bowker (MB) test], Fisher test, and intraclass correlation analysis were used. A P < 0.05 indicated statistical significance.

Results

PNS rates of the CNs in the advanced T3 to T4 stage subgroup were significantly different in evaluations performed with 3D LAVA_Flex, T2WI fs, T1WI, and T1WI ce at the patient level (n = 51, MB test, all P ≤ 0.031) and posterior CN level (MB test, all P ≤ 0.016). At the nerve level, 3D LAVA_Flex showed greater PNS detectability than T2WI fs, T1WI, and T1WI ce for CN V3 division (P = 0.031, 0.016, and 0.016, respectively), hypoglossal nerve (P = 0.002, 0.016, and 0.008, respectively), and external posterior CN IX–XII in carotid space (all P = 0.001), and T2WI fs and T1WI for CN IX–XI (P = 0.031, 0.001).

Conclusions

3D LAVA_Flex could improve both accuracy and reliability of PNS evaluation of CNs in the advanced NPC cohort and may facilitate decision making for therapeutic strategies.
MiRNAs function in the development of resistance against doxorubicin in cancer cells: targeting ABC transporters
Authors: Lu Xin-Yan , Jin Hongxu
Published: November 2024

Resistance to chemotherapeutic agents poses a significant challenge in cancer treatment, particularly with doxorubicin, a widely used drug for various cancers, including breast cancer, leukaemia, osteosarcoma, and gastrointestinal cancers. This review aims to elucidate the critical role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in the development of doxorubicin resistance, focusing on their interactions with ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters. Despite extensive research, the molecular mechanisms governing doxorubicin resistance still need to be completed, particularly regarding the regulatory influence of miRNAs on ABC transporter expression. By analyzing current literature, this review identifies a notable gap: the lack of comprehensive insight into how specific miRNAs modulate the expression and activity of ABC transporters in cancer cells, contributing to doxorubicin resistance. We systematically examine recent findings on the interplay between miRNAs and ABC transporters, providing a detailed assessment of potential therapeutic strategies that leverage miRNA modulation to overcome drug resistance. Ultimately, this review underscores the significance of integrating miRNA research into existing therapeutic frameworks to enhance the efficacy of doxorubicin in cancer treatment.
Phytochemical, pharmacological, pharmacokinetic and toxicological characteristics of Ziziphi Spinosae Semen: a review
Authors: Liu Mei-Hua , Jin Hong-Xin , Song Zhen , Wang Jing-Yi , Gao De-Jiang
Published: November 2024

Ziziphi Spinosae Semen (ZSS) is the seeds of Ziziphus jujuba Mill. var. Spinosa (Bunge) Hu ex H. F. Chou, which has the effects of nourishing heart and liver, tranquilizing heart and tranquilizing mind. With the development of research on the metabolites of ZSS, more than 160 metabolites have been isolated from ZSS, including saponins, alkaloids, flavonoids, fatty acids, volatile oils, polysaccharides and proteins. The active metabolites of ZSS have regulatory effects on the nervous system, cardiovascular system, hematopoietic system, immune system and substance metabolism, and have various pharmacological effects such as anti-oxidation, anti-aging and anti-cancer. Although many traditional uses of ZSS have been clarified, the relationship between its structure and function remains to be further studied. This article provides a review of the metabolites, pharmacological activity, pharmacokinetics and toxicology of ZSS, and explores the future research prospects and existing problems of ZSS, so as to provide reference for further research and establishment of quality control standards of ZSS.
Bibliometric and meta-analysis on the publication status, research trends and impact inducing factors of JA–SA interactions in plants
Authors: Jiao Long , Tan Rongrong , Chen Xun , Wang Hongjuan , Huang Danjuan , Mao Yingxin
Published: November 2024

Interactions between jasmonic acid (JA) and salicylic acid (SA) pathways in plants are important for regulating metabolite production and resistance functions against environmental stresses. These interactions in plants have mostly been reported to be antagonistic, but also to be synergistic under specific external inducing conditions. At present, publications on plant JA–SA interactions lack a bibliometric analysis. External inducing factors that elicit synergism of JA–SA interactions need to be explored. Here, we use bibliometrics to analyze publications on plant JA–SA interactions over the past three decades, and analyze external inducing factors that influence the quality of JA–SA interactions in plants by meta-analysis. More contributions have been made by authors in China, Netherlands, the United States of America, and Germany than elsewhere. Considerable research has been performed on variation in plant defense mediated by two pathways, the transduction mechanisms of JA–SA signaling crosstalk, and plant hormone signaling networks. Meta-analysis showed that the excitation sequence of the two pathways, and the concentrations of pathway excitors are key factors that affect pathways interactions. The JA and SA pathways tend to be reciprocally antagonistic when elicited simultaneously, whereas JA–SA interactions tend to be synergistic when the two pathways are elicited at different times and the pre-treated inducer is at a lower concentration. The SA pathway is more susceptible to being synergized by the JA pathway. Key molecular nodes identified in the JA–SA signaling interaction in model plants, and prospects for future research are discussed.
Quantifying the effects of far-red light on lettuce photosynthesis and growth using a 3D modelling approach
Authors: Li Jiawei , Li Yuanyuan , Chen Yunke , Xu Shipu , Wu Xue , Wu Cuinan , Zhang Ningyi , Cao Kai
Published: November 2024

In vertical farms, the supplementation of far-red light has been widely applied to regulate plant growth and development. However, the relative contribution of far-red to photosynthesis and plant growth in indoor production systems is not sufficiently quantified. This study quantify the photosynthesis and growth responses under different levels of supplemental far-red in lettuce using a 3D modelling approach. Lettuce were cultivated under either white light or red to far-red (R:FR) ratio of 1.6 or 0.8. Measurements of plant morphological traits, leaf photosynthesis, and organ fresh and dry mass were taken and the 3D modelling approach was used to simulate plant photosynthesis and biomass accumulation. Results showed that leaf elevation angle, leaf expansion rate, and plant height significantly increased at each growth stage as the R:FR ratio decreased. Far-red light also promoted plant growth, leading to an increase in the dry and fresh weight of lettuce throughout the entire growth period. However, plants cultivated at low R:FR showed reduced maximum Rubisco carboxylation rate and maximum electron transport rate, which indicated that far-red light reduced the photosynthetic capacity in lettuce. Nevertheless, 3D model simulations demonstrated that plants exposed to enhanced far-red light exhibited increased light interception and whole-plant photosynthesis. The integrated analysis of photosynthetic parameters and plant morphological changes on the photosynthetic rate of the whole plant indicated that the positive effects of plant morphological changes outweighed the negative impacts of photosynthetic parameters. These results implied that far-red light-induced morphological changes enhanced light interception and whole-plant photosynthesis, thereby increased lettuce yield.
The involvement concept—replaceable or irreplaceable? A case for a conceptual analysis of a core concept of media psychological communication research
Authors: Schramm Holger , Olbermann Zoe , Mayer Fabian
Published: November 2024

The concept of involvement has enriched media psychological communication studies for more than three quarters of a century. The original concept of Sherif and colleagues—the so-called ego-involvement—has been extended piece by piece by various researchers over the decades, so that already in the 1980s voices were raised questioning the usefulness of such a broad meta-concept. In this article, we try to answer the question whether the involvement concept has become obsolete in the meantime by taking a more differentiated look at three different central understandings of the involvement concept (involvement as ego-involvement, as personal relevance and as mode of reception) and discussing their explanatory value. As a result, we conclude that the original conception still has its raison d’être and that media psychological communication research should take more account of this fact when designing its studies.
Effects of multilevel metacognition on group performance and regulation in collaborative learning
Authors: Qiao Lifang , Zhao Wei , Liu Fengjuan , Xu Xiaoqing , Tao Jinhong
Published: November 2024

Group metacognition is essential for effective collaboration. However, existing research mainly focuses on individual metacognition in collaborative learning, and some studies focused on interpersonal metacognition. The understanding of group metacognition is limited. Less attention has been paid to how multilevel metacognition, including individual metacognition, interpersonal metacognition, and group metacognition, functions. There is also less research on whether group metacognition influences collaborative learning through other levels of metacognition. To investigate the emergence of multilevel metacognition among learners with varying achievement and its effects on group performance and regulation patterns, this study employed both traditional and process analyses to examine how the distribution and interactions of multilevel metacognition influence group performance and group regulation. The study revealed that in collaborative learning, group metacognition exerts the most significant influence on group performance compared to other metacognitive levels, such as individual metacognition and interpersonal metacognition. Specifically, the study identified three collaborative achievement categories by judging the degree of collaborative benefit based on individual preparation and group performance: H_T category, EF category and L_T category. The H_T and EF categories performed better and developed more group metacognition, while the L_T category exhibited poorer performance and less group metacognition. The study highlights the role of other levels of metacognition in forming group metacognition, with multilevel metacognitive interactions elucidating the mechanisms of group metacognition. These insights provide practical insights for multilevel metacognition and offers guidance for collaborative learning interventions, particularly those targeting group metacognition.
How does educational inequality affect residents’ subjective well-being?—Evidence from China
Authors: Lin Difeng , Liu Zeyun
Published: November 2024

In the context of promoting educational equity and improving welfare, exploring ways to further enhance residents’ subjective well-being from the perspective of educational equity holds significant practical importance. This study uses the educational Gini coefficient to measure the educational inequality index across different provinces and cities, and matches it with data from the China Family Panel Studies (CFPS) to investigate the relationship between educational inequality and residents’ subjective well-being. The research findings reveal a significant negative correlation between educational inequality and residents’ well-being, with observed heterogeneity. Specifically, educational inequality has a greater negative impact on groups with lower levels of well-being, rural areas, and the central and western regions of China. Mechanism analysis confirms the income distribution effect and economic growth effect of educational inequality. Therefore, increasing attention to the issue of educational equity and understanding the well-being effects of educational inequality are of great significance for the Chinese government in improving residents’ welfare in the new era.