bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthetic Maritime Traffic Generation System for Performance Verification of Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships
Authors: Lee Eunkyu , Khan Junaid , Zaman Umar , Ku Jaebin , Kim Sanha , Kim Kyungsup
Published: January 2024

With the global advancement of maritime autonomous surface ships (MASS), the critical task of verifying their key technologies, particularly in challenging conditions, becomes paramount. This study introduces a synthetic maritime traffic generation system (S-MTGS) designed for the efficient and safe verification of these technologies. The S-MTGS encompasses a maritime traffic generator integrating a generator based on absolute position (GAP) and a generator based on relative position (GRP). This innovative system leverages historical maritime data to create various scenarios or generate virtual ships based on their interactions with and proximity to other ships. The virtual ships adeptly navigate and perform collision avoidance maneuvers with nearby vessels enabled by the integrated collision avoidance algorithm. The S-MTGS’s ability to generate a wide range of maritime traffic information mirroring actual maritime conditions is pivotal for thoroughly verifying the performance of MASS technology under both standard and extreme situations. The development of the S-MTGS represents a significant advancement in maritime safety and technology. It can evaluate collision avoidance and navigation systems in MASS, featuring a virtual environment for realistic scenario testing and an intelligent navigation system focused on route tracking and collision avoidance.
Long-Term Trends and Variability of Hydroclimate Variables and Their Linkages with Climate Indices in the Songhua River
Authors: Ma Chongya , Pei Wenhan , Liu Jiping , Fu Guobin
Published: January 2024

The long-term trends and variability of hydroclimate variables are critical for water resource management, as well as adaptation to climate change. Three popular methods were used in this study to explore the trends and variability of hydroclimate variables during last 122 years in the Songhua River (SHR), one of most important river systems in China. Results show the followings: (1) There was an obvious pattern of decadal oscillations, with three positive and three negative precipitation and streamflow anomalies. The lengths of these phases vary from 11 to 36 years. (2) Annual temperature demonstrated a statistically significant increasing trend in the last 122 years, and the trend magnitude was 0.30 °C/10 years in the last 50–60 years, being larger than that of the global surface temperature. It has increased much faster since 1970. (3) Monthly precipitation in the winter season in recent years was almost the same as that in earlier periods, but a significantly increasing monthly streamflow was observed due to snowmelt under a warming climate. (4) A statistically significant correlation between hydroclimate variables and climate indices can be determined. These results could be used to make better water resource management decisions in the SHR, especially under future climate change scenarios.
Identification of Causes of Air Pollution in a Specific Industrial Part of the Czech City of Ostrava in Central Europe
Authors: Volná Vladimíra , Seibert Radim , Hladký Daniel , Krejčí Blanka
Published: January 2024

This contribution deals with the assessment of air pollution caused by atmospheric aerosol particulate matter fraction PM10 and benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) in the urban agglomeration of Ostrava, located in the Czech Republic in Central Europe. The motivation for this research was the need to identify the sources of air pollution in the area, particularly in locations where the contribution of different sources to concentrations of pollutants of concern has not been elucidated yet. In this study, source apportionment in the vicinity of the industrial hot spot was performed by statistically evaluating measured pollutant concentrations as a function of meteorological variables and using the Positive Matrix Factorization (PMF) receptor model. A significant methodological innovation and improvement over previous assessments was the higher monitoring resolution of benzo[a]pyrene, with samples collected at three-hour intervals instead of the standard 24 h collection period. The key findings indicate that in the cold part of the year, secondary particles—specifically sulfates and ammonium nitrates—were responsible for the most significant portion of PM10 air pollution throughout the area of interest. The contribution of these particles ranged from one-third to two-fifths of the total concentration, except at the industrial site of Ostrava–Radvanice (TORE), where they accounted for approximately one-fifth of the measured pollution concentration level. Emissions from individual household heating were identified as the main source of this type of pollution. With regards to benzo[a]pyrene air pollution, this study found that in the whole area of interest, except for the Ostrava–Radvanice site, it mainly originated from individual heating with coal (90%). In contrast, at the Ostrava–Radvanice site, two-thirds of the benzo[a]pyrene pollution came from the premises of Liberty Ostrava a.s., primarily from coke production, and less than one-third came from local domestic heating. This study also determined the spatial extent of the occurrence of extremely high benzo[a]pyrene concentrations (above 5 ng/m3), which are estimated to affect nearly 10,000 inhabitants. The results confirm that the data from the TORE station are only representative of its immediate surroundings and are not applicable to the assessment of air quality and causes of air pollution in the whole city of Ostrava or the urban area of Ostrava–Radvanice as a whole. After years of research, these findings provide the Ministry of the Environment of the Czech Republic and the government with an accurate basis for implementing measures to address the identified pollution sources in the area of interest. The success of this study was made possible by the adoption of a more detailed sampling approach, which involved a resolution of 3 h instead of 24 h. This methodological improvement is a significant finding and will be useful for future source apportionment studies.
Progress in High-Precision Mass Measurements of Light Ions
Authors: Myers Edmund G.
Published: January 2024

Significant advances in Penning trap measurements of atomic masses and mass ratios of the proton, deuteron, triton, helion, and alpha-particle have occurred in the last five years. These include a measurement of the mass of the deuteron against 12C with 8.5 × 10−12 fractional uncertainty; resolution of vibrational levels of H2+ as mass and the application of a simultaneous measurement technique to the H2+/D+ cyclotron frequency ratio, yielding a deuteron/proton mass ratio at 5 × 10−12; new measurements of HD+/3He+, HD+/T+, and T+/3He+ leading to a tritium beta-decay Q-value with an uncertainty of 22 meV, and atomic masses of the helion and triton at 13 × 10−12; and a new measurement of the mass of the alpha-particle against 12C at 12 × 10−12. Some of these results are in strong disagreement with previous values in the literature. Their impact in determining a precise proton/electron mass ratio and electron atomic mass from spectroscopy of the HD+ molecular ion is also discussed.
A New Family of Appell-Type Changhee Polynomials with Geometric Applications
Authors: Al-Jawfi Rashad A. , Muhyi Abdulghani , Al-shameri Wadia Faid Hassan
Published: January 2024

Recently, Appell-type polynomials have been investigated and applied in several ways. In this paper, we consider a new extension of Appell-type Changhee polynomials. We introduce two-variable generalized Appell-type λ-Changhee polynomials (2VGATλCHP). The generating function, series representations, and summation identities related to these polynomials are explored. Further, certain symmetry identities involving two-variable generalized Appell-type λ-Changhee polynomials are established. Finally, Mathematica was used to examine the zero distributions of two-variable truncated-exponential Appell-type Changhee polynomials.
Drug Repositioning of Inflammatory Bowel Disease Based on Co-Target Gene Expression Signature of Glucocorticoid Receptor and TET2
Authors: Zhao Xianglin , Hu Chenghao , Chen Xinyu , Ren Shuqiang , Gao Fei
Published: January 2024

The glucocorticoid receptor (GR) and ten-eleven translocation 2 (TET2), respectively, play a crucial role in regulating immunity and inflammation, and GR interacts with TET2. However, their synergetic roles in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s disease (CD), remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the co-target gene signatures of GR and TET2 in IBD and provide potential therapeutic interventions for IBD. By integrating public data, we identified 179 GR- and TET2-targeted differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in CD and 401 in UC. These genes were found to be closely associated with immunometabolism, inflammatory responses, and cell stress pathways. In vitro inflammatory cellular models were constructed using LPS-treated HT29 and HCT116 cells, respectively. Drug repositioning based on the co-target gene signatures of GR and TET2 derived from transcriptomic data of UC, CD, and the in vitro model was performed using the Connectivity Map (CMap). BMS-536924 emerged as a top therapeutic candidate, and its validation experiment within the in vitro inflammatory model confirmed its efficacy in mitigating the LPS-induced inflammatory response. This study sheds light on the pathogenesis of IBD from a new perspective and may accelerate the development of novel therapeutic agents for inflammatory diseases including IBD.
Friend or Foe: Protein Inhibitors of DNA Gyrase
Authors: Ruan Shengfeng , Tu Chih-Han , Bourne Christina R.
Published: January 2024

DNA gyrase is essential for the successful replication of circular chromosomes, such as those found in most bacterial species, by relieving topological stressors associated with unwinding the double-stranded genetic material. This critical central role makes gyrase a valued target for antibacterial approaches, as exemplified by the highly successful fluoroquinolone class of antibiotics. It is reasonable that the activity of gyrase could be intrinsically regulated within cells, thereby helping to coordinate DNA replication with doubling times. Numerous proteins have been identified to exert inhibitory effects on DNA gyrase, although at lower doses, it can appear readily reversible and therefore may have regulatory value. Some of these, such as the small protein toxins found in plasmid-borne addiction modules, can promote cell death by inducing damage to DNA, resulting in an analogous outcome as quinolone antibiotics. Others, however, appear to transiently impact gyrase in a readily reversible and non-damaging mechanism, such as the plasmid-derived Qnr family of DNA-mimetic proteins. The current review examines the origins and known activities of protein inhibitors of gyrase and highlights opportunities to further exert control over bacterial growth by targeting this validated antibacterial target with novel molecular mechanisms. Furthermore, we are gaining new insights into fundamental regulatory strategies of gyrase that may prove important for understanding diverse growth strategies among different bacteria.
A Combination of Heavy Metals and Intracellular Pathway Modulators Induces Alzheimer Disease-like Pathologies in Organotypic Brain Slices
Authors: Korde Dhwani S. , Humpel Christian
Published: January 2024

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that is characterized by amyloid-beta (Aβ) plaques and tau neurofibrillary tangles (NFT). Modelling aspects of AD is challenging due to its complex multifactorial etiology and pathology. The present study aims to establish a cost-effective and rapid method to model the two primary pathologies in organotypic brain slices. Coronal hippocampal brain slices (150 µm) were generated from postnatal (day 8–10) C57BL6 wild-type mice and cultured for 9 weeks. Collagen hydrogels containing either an empty load or a mixture of human Aβ42 and P301S aggregated tau were applied to the slices. The media was further supplemented with various intracellular pathway modulators or heavy metals to augment the appearance of Aβ plaques and tau NFTs, as assessed by immunohistochemistry. Immunoreactivity for Aβ and tau was significantly increased in the ventral areas in slices with a mixture of human Aβ42 and P301S aggregated tau compared to slices with empty hydrogels. Aβ plaque- and tau NFT-like pathologies could be induced independently in slices. Heavy metals (aluminum, lead, cadmium) potently augmented Aβ plaque-like pathology, which developed intracellularly prior to cell death. Intracellular pathway modulators (scopolamine, wortmannin, MHY1485) significantly boosted tau NFT-like pathologies. A combination of nanomolar concentrations of scopolamine, wortmannin, MHY1485, lead, and cadmium in the media strongly increased Aβ plaque- and tau NFT-like immunoreactivity in ventral areas compared to the slices with non-supplemented media. The results highlight that we could harness the potential of the collagen hydrogel-based spreading of human Aβ42 and P301S aggregated tau, along with pharmacological manipulation, to produce pathologies relevant to AD. The results offer a novel ex vivo organotypic slice model to investigate AD pathologies with potential applications for screening drugs or therapies in the future.
Generalised Periodontitis: Examining TAS2R16 Serum Levels and Common Gene Polymorphisms (rs860170, rs978739, rs1357949)
Authors: Kriauciunas Albertas , Gedvilaite Greta , Bruzaite Akvile , Zekonis Gediminas , Razukevicius Dainius , Liutkeviciene Rasa
Published: January 2024

The objective of this study was to evaluate and compare the associations between TAS2R16 serum levels and common gene rs860170, rs978739, and rs1357949 polymorphisms in patients affected by generalized periodontitis. The study enrolled 590 patients: 280 patients with periodontitis and 310 healthy controls as a reference group. Patients underwent periodontal examination and radiographic analysis to confirm the periodontitis diagnosis. Blood samples were collected, and the DNA salting-out method was used for DNA extraction from peripheral venous blood. Genotyping of TAS2R16 (rs860170, rs978739, and rs1357949) was performed using real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and serum level analysis was performed for both periodontitis-affected patients and reference group subjects. The analysis of TAS2R16 rs860170 (TT, CT, and CC) showed a statistically significant difference between generalized periodontitis and the reference group (41.8%, 58.2%, and 0% vs. 38.7%, 56.1%, and 5.2%, p < 0.001). TAS2R16 rs860170 (TT, CT, and CC) showed a statistically significant difference between males in generalized periodontitis and reference groups (38.4%, 61.6%, and 0% vs. 32.9%, 56.6%, and 10.5%, p = 0.002). Female-specific analysis showed that the TAS2R16 rs978739 C allele was more frequent in generalized periodontitis compared to the reference group (37.5% vs. 28.7%, p = 0.016). Subjects aged 70 years and older demonstrated a statistically significant difference in TAS2R16 rs860170 (TT, CT, and CC) between generalized periodontitis and the reference group (42.8%, 57.2%, and 0% vs. 38.6%, 53.8%, and 7.6%, p = 0.003). TAS2R16 serum levels were elevated in generalized periodontitis compared to the reference group (0.112 (0.06) ng/mL vs. 0.075 (0.03) ng/mL, p = 0.002). Females carrying the TAS2R16 rs978739 C allele were more prone to generalized periodontitis development. Associations were found between TAS2R16 rs860170 polymorphisms, elevated TAS2R16 serum levels, and generalized periodontitis development.
The Role of Vasculature and Angiogenic Strategies in Bone Regeneration
Authors: Jang Hye-Jeong , Yoon Jeong-Kee
Published: January 2024

Bone regeneration is a complex process that involves various growth factors, cell types, and extracellular matrix components. A crucial aspect of this process is the formation of a vascular network, which provides essential nutrients and oxygen and promotes osteogenesis by interacting with bone tissue. This review provides a comprehensive discussion of the critical role of vasculature in bone regeneration and the applications of angiogenic strategies, from conventional to cutting-edge methodologies. Recent research has shifted towards innovative bone tissue engineering strategies that integrate vascularized bone complexes, recognizing the significant role of vasculature in bone regeneration. The article begins by examining the role of angiogenesis in bone regeneration. It then introduces various in vitro and in vivo applications that have achieved accelerated bone regeneration through angiogenesis to highlight recent advances in bone tissue engineering. This review also identifies remaining challenges and outlines future directions for research in vascularized bone regeneration.
An Individual Prosthesis Control Method with Human Subjective Choices
Authors: Sun Lei , Ma Hongxu , An Honglei , Wei Qing
Published: January 2024

An intelligent lower-limb prosthesis can provide walking support and convenience for lower-limb amputees. Trajectory planning of prosthesis joints plays an important role in the intelligent prosthetic control system, which directly determines the performance and helps improve comfort when wearing the prosthesis. Due to the differences in physiology and walking habits, humans have their own walking mode that requires the prosthesis to consider the individual’s demands when planning the prosthesis joint trajectories. The human is an integral part of the control loop, whose subjective feeling is important feedback information, as humans can evaluate many indicators that are difficult to quantify and model. In this study, trajectories were built using the phase variable method by normalizing the gait curve to a unified range. The deviations between the optimal trajectory and current were represented using Fourier series expansion. A gait dataset that contains multi-subject kinematics data is used in the experiments to prove the feasibility and effectiveness of this method. In the experiments, we optimized the subjects’ gait trajectories from an average to an individual gait trajectory. By using the individual trajectory planning algorithm, the average gait trajectory can be effectively optimized into a personalized trajectory, which is beneficial for improving walking comfort and safety and bringing the prosthesis closer to intelligence.
Biohybrid Robotic Hand to Investigate Tactile Encoding and Sensorimotor Integration
Authors: Ades Craig , Abd Moaed A. , Hutchinson Douglas T. , Tognoli Emmanuelle , Du E , Wei Jianning , Engeberg Erik D.
Published: January 2024

For people who have experienced a spinal cord injury or an amputation, the recovery of sensation and motor control could be incomplete despite noteworthy advances with invasive neural interfaces. Our objective is to explore the feasibility of a novel biohybrid robotic hand model to investigate aspects of tactile sensation and sensorimotor integration with a pre-clinical research platform. Our new biohybrid model couples an artificial hand with biological neural networks (BNN) cultured in a multichannel microelectrode array (MEA). We decoded neural activity to control a finger of the artificial hand that was outfitted with a tactile sensor. The fingertip sensations were encoded into rapidly adapting (RA) or slowly adapting (SA) mechanoreceptor firing patterns that were used to electrically stimulate the BNN. We classified the coherence between afferent and efferent electrodes in the MEA with a convolutional neural network (CNN) using a transfer learning approach. The BNN exhibited the capacity for functional specialization with the RA and SA patterns, represented by significantly different robotic behavior of the biohybrid hand with respect to the tactile encoding method. Furthermore, the CNN was able to distinguish between RA and SA encoding methods with 97.84% ± 0.65% accuracy when the BNN was provided tactile feedback, averaged across three days in vitro (DIV). This novel biohybrid research platform demonstrates that BNNs are sensitive to tactile encoding methods and can integrate robotic tactile sensations with the motor control of an artificial hand. This opens the possibility of using biohybrid research platforms in the future to study aspects of neural interfaces with minimal human risk.
Special Issue—Biosensors and Neuroscience: Is Biosensors Engineering Ready to Embrace Design Principles from Neuroscience?
Authors: Hwang Grace M. , Simonian Aleksandr L.
Published: January 2024

In partnership with the Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR), the National Science Foundation’s (NSF) Emerging Frontiers and Multidisciplinary Activities (EFMA) office of the Directorate for Engineering (ENG) launched an Emerging Frontiers in Research and Innovation (EFRI) topic for the fiscal years FY22 and FY23 entitled “Brain-inspired Dynamics for Engineering Energy-Efficient Circuits and Artificial Intelligence” (BRAID) [...]
Awake Craniotomy in Conscious Sedation: The Role of A2 Agonists
Authors: Izzi Antonio , Mincolelli Giuseppe , D’Onofrio Grazia , Marchello Vincenzo , Manuali Aldo , Icolaro Nadia , Mirabella Lucia , Riefolo Anna , Mazzotta Barbara , Barile Alessio , Gorgoglione Leonardo Pio , Del Gaudio Alfredo
Published: January 2024

Background: In Awake Craniotomy (AC), α2-agonists and remifentanil (clonidine and dexmedetomidine) are used in the preoperative phase and throughout the procedure to combine monitored anesthesia care and local anesthesia. The study aims were to specify the key role of α2-agonists administered and to evaluate complication presence/absence in anesthesiologic management. Methods: 42 patients undergoing AC in 3 different centers in the south of Italy (Foggia, San Giovanni Rotondo, and Bari) were recruited. Our protocol involves analgo-sedation by administering Dexmedetomidine and Remifentanil in continuous intravenous infusion, allowing the patient to be sedated and in comfort but contactable and spontaneously breathing. During pre-surgery, the patient is premedicated with intramuscular clonidine (2 µg/kg). In the operating setting, Dexmedetomidine in infusion and Remifentanil in Target Controlled Infusion for effect are started. At the end of the surgical procedure, the infusion of drugs was suspended. Results: There were no intraoperative side effects. The mean duration of interventions was 240 ± 62 min. The average quantity of Remifentanil and Dexmedetomidine infused during interventions were 4.2 ± 1.3 mg and 1.0 ± 0.3 mg, respectively. No significant side effects were described in the post-operative phase. A total of 86% of patients and 93% of surgeons were totally satisfied. Conclusions: Synergy between opioid drugs and α2 agonists plays a fundamental role in ensuring procedure success.
Risky Sexual Behavior and Psychopathy: Testing the Relationship in a Non-Clinical Sample of Young Adults in Hong Kong
Authors: Chan Heng Choon (Oliver) , Beech Anthony
Published: January 2024

This study aims to investigate the relationship between risky sexual behavior (RSB) and psychopathy in a non-clinical sample of 714 Hong Kong adults, shedding light on sex differences. Our findings reveal that males exhibit significantly higher mean levels of RSB (general, penetrative, and nonpenetrative), as well as egocentric (Factor 1) and callous (Factor 3) traits of psychopathy, along with increased sexual desire compared to females. Regression analyses indicate that elevated levels of antisociality (Factor 2) and callousness (Factor 3) traits of psychopathy, along with sexual desire, emerge as significant risk factors for engaging in general, penetrative, and nonpenetrative RSB. Intriguingly, higher age and being in a long-term relationship are associated with RSB. The implications of this study suggest potential avenues for reducing, if not entirely preventing, the inclination to engage in RSB in the presence of psychopathic traits.
The Collective Influence of Intolerance of Uncertainty, Cognitive Test Anxiety, and Academic Self-Handicapping on Learner Outcomes: Evidence for a Process Model
Authors: Cassady Jerrell C. , Helsper Addison , Quagliano Quinton
Published: January 2024

Research on achievement emotions and behaviors has routinely demonstrated connections to student performance. This study approaches the work from a perspective of greater integration of multiple variables and examines potential nonlinear relationships among intolerance of uncertainty, cognitive test anxiety, academic self-handicapping, and student performance. Using structured equations modeling and generalized additive modeling, our results confirm better predictions of student performance when using both multivariate and curvilinear analyses. Optimal prediction of GPA was achieved when considering all three variables in conjunction through a serial mediation model. Specifically, the analyses demonstrated that intolerance of uncertainty tended to activate learners’ cognitive test anxiety, which increased the potential of engaging in academic self-handicapping, resulting in lower levels of GPA. The results are consistent with process models of test anxiety that identify the critical role of learners’ appraisals of evaluative stressors as well as the coping strategies employed when stressors are activated. Finally, curvilinear analyses confirmed that student GPA was related to academic self-handicapping and cognitive test anxiety in complex ways but largely demonstrated that as the levels of self-handicapping and/or cognitive test anxiety increased, performance declined. However, the degree of severity in reduced GPA was most severe for learners with elevations in both.
Behavioral Characteristics of China’s NEET-Prone University Students and Graduates: A Survey from Southwest China
Authors: Zhao Lu , Li Yang , Yu Ao , Zhang Weike
Published: January 2024

The NEET phenomenon (not in education, employment or training) has significant implications, both for individuals and society at large. While China’s higher education students are particularly susceptible to becoming NEET, relatively little attention has been given to understanding this issue. To address this research gap and contribute to the study of NEET in China, this paper collected a total of 12,616 samples from current higher education students and those who graduated within the past three years from universities in seven provinces of Southwest China, finding that 21.91% of the students surveyed fall into the NEET-prone student category. The underlying factors contributing to NEET-prone status are identified through logit regression analysis and categorized into three levels: individual, family, and society. At the individual level, factors such as personal ability, confidence in job-hunting, and attitude towards NEET significantly influence a student’s likelihood of being NEET-prone. Family-level factors include being an only child, consumption level, economic dependence on family members, and the presence of NEET relatives. And social-level factors encompass school provision (or non-provision) of employment services, the number of employment services offered, and the possibility of obtaining loans from society. Finally, this paper concludes by offering recommendations, which are drawn from individual, family, and social perspectives, to help Chinese higher education students avoid NEET status.
Perspectives of Machine Learning and Natural Language Processing on Characterizing Positive Energy Districts
Authors: Han Mengjie , Canli Ilkim , Shah Juveria , Zhang Xingxing , Dino Ipek Gursel , Kalkan Sinan
Published: January 2024

The concept of a Positive Energy District (PED) has become a vital component of the efforts to accelerate the transition to zero carbon emissions and climate-neutral living environments. Research is shifting its focus from energy-efficient single buildings to districts, where the aim is to achieve a positive energy balance across a given time period. Various innovation projects, programs, and activities have produced abundant insights into how to implement and operate PEDs. However, there is still no agreed way of determining what constitutes a PED for the purpose of identifying and evaluating its various elements. This paper thus sets out to create a process for characterizing PEDs. First, nineteen different elements of a PED were identified. Then, two AI techniques, machine learning (ML) and natural language processing (NLP), were introduced and examined to determine their potential for modeling, extracting, and mapping the elements of a PED. Lastly, state-of-the-art research papers were reviewed to identify any contribution they can make to the determination of the effectiveness of the ML and NLP models. The results suggest that both ML and NLP possess significant potential for modeling most of the identified elements in various areas, such as optimization, control, design, and stakeholder mapping. This potential is realized through the utilization of vast amounts of data, enabling these models to generate accurate and useful insights for PED planning and implementation. Several practical strategies have been identified to enhance the characterization of PEDs. These include a clear definition and quantification of the elements, the utilization of urban-scale energy modeling techniques, and the development of user-friendly interfaces capable of presenting model insights in an accessible manner. Thus, developing a holistic approach that integrates existing and novel techniques for PED characterization is essential to achieve sustainable and resilient urban environments.
The Activity-Based Costing System Applied in Higher Education Institutions: A Systematic Review and Mapping of the Literature
Authors: Borges Pedro , Alves Maria do Céu , Silva Rui
Published: January 2024

Objective: In recent years, management accounting in higher education institutions has undergone significant changes due to the various New Public Management (NPM) reforms. One of the management accounting tools that has been advised to HEIs is Activity-Based Costing (ABC). With this evolving field of research, this article aims to analyze research in international scientific journals focusing on ABC in HEIs. To this end, this article provides an overview of how research in this area has evolved. We present an overview of the past, present, and future of research in the field of the ABC model applied in HEIs. Methodology: Through a systematic literature review, the Web of Science and Scopus databases were used as a source of articles. Our analysis is based on a total of 139 articles. We used a systematic literature review combining different bibliometric techniques. These allowed us to develop a mapping of the literature on the application of the ABC model in HEIs, which helps us better understand the research related to the topic and its evolution. Results: It is concluded that the existing literature on this topic has developed along three lines of research: implementation of ABC as a cost-control method, TDABC as a time-based cost-control method, and the application of the ABC Method in health services. Originality: Based on the results found, this article identifies avenues of research that can be explored, namely the study of the application of ABC in the education sector, and provides a research agenda for future studies.
Involvement of Cyclooxygenase-2 in Establishing an Immunosuppressive Microenvironment in Tumorspheres Derived from TMZ-Resistant Glioblastoma Cell Lines and Primary Cultures
Authors: Lombardi Francesca , Augello Francesca Rosaria , Artone Serena , Ciafarone Alessia , Topi Skender , Cifone Maria Grazia , Cinque Benedetta , Palumbo Paola
Published: January 2024

Glioblastoma (GBM) is characterized by an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) strictly associated with therapy resistance. Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) fuels GBM proliferation, stemness, and chemoresistance. We previously reported that COX-2 upregulation induced by temozolomide (TMZ) supported chemoresistance. Also, COX-2 transfer by extracellular vesicles released by T98G promoted M2 polarization in macrophages, whereas COX-2 inhibition counteracted these effects. Here, we investigated the COX-2 role in the stemness potential and modulation of the GBM immunosuppressive microenvironment. The presence of macrophages U937 within tumorspheres derived from GBM cell lines and primary cultures exposed to celecoxib (COX-2 inhibitor) with or without TMZ was studied by confocal microscopy. M2 polarization was analyzed by TGFβ-1 and CD206 levels. Osteopontin (OPN), a crucial player within the TME by driving the macrophages’ infiltration, and CD44 expression was assessed by Western blot. TMZ strongly enhanced tumorsphere size and induced the M2 polarization of infiltrating macrophages. In macrophage-infiltrated tumorspheres, TMZ upregulated OPN and CD44 expression. These TMZ effects were counteracted by the concurrent addition of CXB. Remarkably, exogenous prostaglandin-E2 restored OPN and CD44, highlighting the COX-2 pivotal role in the protumor macrophages’ state promotion. COX-2 inhibition interfered with TMZ’s ability to induce M2-polarization and counteracted the development of an immunosuppressive TME.
Recapitulation of Structure–Function–Regulation of Blood–Brain Barrier under (Patho)Physiological Conditions
Authors: Fong Hin , Zhou Botao , Feng Haixiao , Luo Chuoying , Bai Boren , Zhang John , Wang Yuechun
Published: January 2024

The blood–brain barrier (BBB) is a remarkable and intricate barrier that controls the exchange of molecules between the bloodstream and the brain. Its role in maintaining the stability of the central nervous system cannot be overstated. Over the years, advancements in neuroscience and technology have enabled us to delve into the cellular and molecular components of the BBB, as well as its regulation. Yet, there is a scarcity of comprehensive reviews that follow a logical framework of structure–function–regulation, particularly focusing on the nuances of BBB regulation under both normal and pathological conditions. This review sets out to address this gap by taking a historical perspective on the discovery of the BBB and highlighting the major observations that led to its recognition as a distinct brain barrier. It explores the intricate cellular elements contributing to the formation of the BBB, including endothelial cells, pericytes, astrocytes, and neurons, emphasizing their collective role in upholding the integrity and functionality of the BBB. Furthermore, the review delves into the dynamic regulation of the BBB in physiological states, encompassing neural, humoral, and auto-regulatory mechanisms. By shedding light on these regulatory processes, a deeper understanding of the BBB’s response to various physiological cues emerges. This review also investigates the disruption of the BBB integrity under diverse pathological conditions, such as ischemia, infection, and toxin exposure. It elucidates the underlying mechanisms that contribute to BBB dysfunction and explores potential therapeutic strategies that aim to restore the BBB integrity and function. Overall, this recapitulation provides valuable insights into the structure, functions, and regulation of the BBB. By integrating historical perspectives, cellular elements, regulatory mechanisms, and pathological implications, this review contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of the BBB and paves the way for future research and therapeutic interventions.
Referrals and Determinant Factors of a National School Health Campaign in Lebanon on Children Aged between 3 and 12 Years Old
Authors: Habchy Peter , Tahan Léa , Moussi Charbel , Barakat Muhammad A. , Ghanem Laura , Kattan Ogarite , Njeim Alain , Abou Habib Leila , El Bitar Wassim , El Asmar Béchara , Chahine Mirna N.
Published: January 2024

In this extensive study examining the health of 7184 school children aged 3 to 12 in 27 Lebanese schools, screenings involved medical evaluation and interviews, complemented by phone interviews with 3880 parents. Notably, one in two students received a medical referral, revealing prevalent issues such as dental cavities (33%), under-vaccination (25%), undetected vision problems (13%), abnormal growth (6%), underweight (27%), and overweight (33%). Additional concerns encompassed abnormal vital signs (3%), abuse signs (0.6%), infectious skin lesions (1.6%), scoliosis (1.7%), abnormal auscultation (heart 1.1%, lungs 1.2%), ear problems (3.3%), precocious puberty (0.7%), and neurologic signs (0.6%). Mental health challenges affected 20–25% of students. Public schools and Beirut exhibited higher referral rates, with girls, older children, overweight students, those lacking regular pediatrician visits, and children of self-employed or less educated parents facing elevated referral rates. In contrast, children of healthcare workers experienced fewer referrals. Against this backdrop, the study emphasizes the imperative for targeted health initiatives, particularly in marginalized areas and for socioeconomically disadvantaged students. Priority areas include dental care, weight issues, mental health, vaccination compliance, and addressing vision problems to enhance learning outcomes.
Application of Optical Fiber Sensing Technology and Coating Technology in Blood Component Detection and Monitoring
Authors: Qu Wenwen , Chen Yanxia , Ma Chaoqun , Peng Donghong , Bai Xuanyao , Zhao Jiaxin , Liu Shuangqiang , Luo Le
Published: January 2024

The advantages of optical fiber sensors include their miniaturization, strong anti-interference ability, high sensitivity, low cost, and fast response speed. They can be used for in situ detection in harsh environments, making them suitable for a wide range of applications such as blood detection and monitoring. This technology holds great potential for medical diagnosis and health monitoring, opening up new possibilities in the field. Coating technology plays a crucial role in enhancing the sensitivity and stability of optical fiber sensors, ultimately improving their measurement accuracy and reliability. This manuscript expounds the application status and progression of optical fiber sensors in the determination of blood glucose concentrations, blood pH, diverse proteins in blood, and physical properties of blood. The principle of optical fiber sensors and the application of coating technology for detecting varying targets are scrutinized in detail, with particular emphasis on the advantages and limitations of distinct design schemes. The adept amalgamation of optical fiber sensing technology and coating technology amplifies the adaptability of optical fiber sensors in diverse practical scenarios, thereby presenting novel instruments and methodologies for researchers in pertinent fields to augment their advancement and development.
Systematics of Crystalline Oxide and Framework Compression
Authors: Tschauner Oliver
Published: January 2024

A universal equation of state of solids is one of the far goals of condensed matter science. Here, it is shown that within pressures of 2–100 GPa, the compression of oxides and oxide-based networks follows a linear relation between the molar volume and the combined ionic volume that is based on the pressure-dependent crystal radii at any pressure. This relation holds for simple and complex oxides and modified networks such as alumosilicates, beryllosilicates, borates, and empty zeolites. Available compression data for halides and metal-organic frameworks are also consistent with this relation. Thus, the observed relation also serves as a measure for pore-space filling in cage structures.
Reintroduction of the Extinct-in-the-Wild Spix’s Macaw (Cyanopsitta spixii) in the Caatinga Forest Domain of Brazil
Authors: Purchase Cromwell , Lugarini Camile , Purchase Candice , Ferreira Ariane , Vercillo Ugo Eichler , Stafford Mark L. , White Thomas H.
Published: January 2024

We describe efforts to reintroduce the extinct-in-the-wild Spix’s Macaw (Cyanopsitta spixii) within its historical range in eastern Brazil. Twenty captive-reared Spix’s Macaws were released, along with 15 Blue-Winged Macaws (Primolius maracana), as heterospecific flocks in two events during the dry and rainy seasons of 2022. We monitored the release groups through daily observation and telemetry tracking from early June 2022 to early June 2023. We documented an overall first-year survival of 58.3% (CI: 37.8–78.7%), with 65% of Spix’s Macaws establishing a stable area of activity within 5 km of the release site, excluding any temporary long-distance forays. Eighty-five percent of released Spix’s Macaws exhibited flock cohesion, including interactions with and integration into wild Blue-Winged Macaw groups at the release site. Several released Spix’s Macaws formed pair-bonds with conspecifics and engaged in nest cavity exploration, breeding behavior, and territorial defense of nest sites, with three females also laying and incubating eggs. One nesting pair successfully hatched and reared chicks in an artificial nest cavity. These releases employed a novel reintroduction strategy using a surrogate species model, the sympatric Blue-Winged Macaw, to “mentor” and facilitate post-release adaptation by the target species and increase the total number of individuals in the release cohort. Lastly, participatory monitoring by local citizens is considered a way to engage and involve local communities in species and habitat conservation and potentially create new employment opportunities in the region.
Do Laboratory Blood Tests Change Medical Care in Patients Hospitalized with Community-Acquired Pneumonia?
Authors: Shimoni Zvi , Gazi Muhamad , Froom Paul
Published: January 2024

Background and Objectives: The prevalence of inappropriate laboratory testing is believed to be high, but only a limited number of studies have reviewed medical charts to determine whether tests impact medical care. Materials and Methods: From the electronic database, we selected 500 consecutive patients with community-acquired pneumonia who were hospitalized between January 2020 and October 2021. We excluded eight patients who had COVID-19, but were not identified in the database, and were only identified after chart review. To assess the impact of tests on medical care, we conducted a thorough review of the patients’ charts. Results: The age of the patients was 78 ± 16 years, with 42.3% female (n = 208) hospitalized for a median of 4 days (25–75%, 3–6 days). There were 27957 laboratory test results during 2690 hospital days (10.4 tests per day of hospitalization). Of the 2997 tests carried out on admission 5.7% (n = 170) resulted in changes of medical care in 34.5% (170/492) of the patients, nearly all from the results of electrolytes, renal function tests, and serum glucose measurements. Tests that did not lead to any decision on medical care included 75.8% (7181/9478) on admission and 86.0% (15,898/18,479) on repetitive testing, i.e., repetitive testing accounted for 68.9% (15,898/23,079) of tests that did not change medical care. By excluding tests that did not change medical care, the overall testing rate would decrease by 82.6% (23,079/27,947), and from 10.4 tests per day to 2.1 tests per day. Conclusions: We conclude that the estimate of the overuse of laboratory testing, which includes all testing that does not change patient care, is much higher than reported using other methodologies. Most of the overuse was from repetitive testing that included unnecessary testing in patients without admission test results that changed medical care. Further investigation is needed to determine if these findings can be applied to patients with diverse health conditions and in different healthcare settings.
Fast Finite-Time Super-Twisting Sliding Mode Control with an Extended State Higher-Order Sliding Mode Observer for UUV Trajectory Tracking
Authors: Guo Liwei , Liu Weidong , Li Le , Xu Jingming , Zhang Kang , Zhang Yuang
Published: January 2024

This paper proposes a trajectory tracking control scheme consisting of a fast finite-time super-twisting sliding mode control (FSTSMC) approach and an extended state higher-order sliding mode observer (ESHSMO) for unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) with external disturbances and model uncertainties. Firstly, an extended state higher-order sliding mode observer with the finite-time convergence is designed based on the higher-order sliding mode technique and the extended state observer technique. Next, on the basis of disturbances and model uncertainties observation, a fast finite-time super-twisting sliding mode control approach is proposed, and the finite time stabilization property of the tracking errors is proved by Lyapunov theory. Finally, through numerical simulation and experiment in a water pool, it has been verified that the proposed control scheme has achieved the high control precision, the smaller chattering, the disturbance compensation and the fast finite-time convergence in UUV trajectory tracking.
Extension of the HEMRM—Full Harmonization of the Electricity Supply System
Authors: Marinšek Zoran , Brus Sašo , Meindl Gerhard
Published: January 2024

The current formal common denominator of the electricity supply system in Europe has been the Harmonized Electricity Market Role Model (HEMRM) set up by ENTSO-E, ebIX, and EFET at the turn of the millennium; it introduced the concept of de-coupling and the vertical structuring of the system into the previously vertically integrated system. Since then, within demonstration projects, the system has been undergoing further changes in a controlled environment, generating bottom-up energy, caused by new technologies, business models, and new players, and extending the concept of the system to the level of energy communities and prosumers. Therefore, this paper proposes a coherent approach to the extension of HEMRM to the lowest levels in both the grid and market segments—full harmonization. This entails further structuring of both segments downwards and applying the principles of vertically nested subsystems—a system of systems approach—to a unit functional level of the electricity system, which can be the prosumer itself. At the lowest levels, the de-coupled system becomes coupled; additionally, it cross-sects with other energy vectors. Complete harmonization reduces the number of system and market segments and represents system standardization, leading to both subsystem and system-wide optimization. Prerequisites for it include the automated trading of flexibilities by the prosumers and implicit trading of energy transfer capacities along the distribution grids. The energy reservoirs, implicit and explicit, short-term, and long-term, play a vital role in techno-economic balancing.