bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Senescent Cells: Dual Implications on the Retinal Vascular System
Authors: Habibi-Kavashkohie Mohammad Reza , Scorza Tatiana , Oubaha Malika
Published: September 2023

Cellular senescence, a state of permanent cell cycle arrest in response to endogenous and exogenous stimuli, triggers a series of gradual alterations in structure, metabolism, and function, as well as inflammatory gene expression that nurtures a low-grade proinflammatory milieu in human tissue. A growing body of evidence indicates an accumulation of senescent neurons and blood vessels in response to stress and aging in the retina. Prolonged accumulation of senescent cells and long-term activation of stress signaling responses may lead to multiple chronic diseases, tissue dysfunction, and age-related pathologies by exposing neighboring cells to the heightened pathological senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). However, the ultimate impacts of cellular senescence on the retinal vasculopathies and retinal vascular development remain ill-defined. In this review, we first summarize the molecular players and fundamental mechanisms driving cellular senescence, as well as the beneficial implications of senescent cells in driving vital physiological processes such as embryogenesis, wound healing, and tissue regeneration. Then, the dual implications of senescent cells on the growth, hemostasis, and remodeling of retinal blood vessels are described to document how senescent cells contribute to both retinal vascular development and the severity of proliferative retinopathies. Finally, we discuss the two main senotherapeutic strategies—senolytics and senomorphics—that are being considered to safely interfere with the detrimental effects of cellular senescence.
Kidney-Specific Membrane-Bound Serine Proteases CAP1/Prss8 and CAP3/St14 Affect ENaC Subunit Abundances but Not Its Activity
Authors: Ehret Elodie , Stroh Sévan , Auberson Muriel , Ino Frédérique , Jäger Yannick , Maillard Marc , Szabo Roman , Bugge Thomas H. , Frateschi Simona , Hummler Edith
Published: September 2023

The serine proteases CAP1/Prss8 and CAP3/St14 are identified as ENaC channel-activating proteases in vitro, highly suggesting that they are required for proteolytic activation of ENaC in vivo. The present study tested whether CAP3/St14 is relevant for renal proteolytic ENaC activation and affects ENaC-mediated Na+ absorption following Na+ deprivation conditions. CAP3/St14 knockout mice exhibit a significant decrease in CAP1/Prss8 protein expression with altered ENaC subunit and decreased pNCC protein abundances but overall maintain sodium balance. RNAscope-based analyses reveal co-expression of CAP3/St14 and CAP1/Prss8 with alpha ENaC in distal tubules of the cortex from wild-type mice. Double CAP1/Prss8; CAP3/St14-deficiency maintained Na+ and K+ balance on a Na+-deprived diet, restored ENaC subunit protein abundances but showed reduced NCC activity under Na+ deprivation. Overall, our data clearly show that CAP3/St14 is not required for direct proteolytic activation of ENaC but for its protein abundance. Our study reveals a complex regulation of ENaC by these serine proteases on the expression level rather than on its proteolytic activation.
Overexpression of FRA1 (FOSL1) Leads to Global Transcriptional Perturbations, Reduced Cellular Adhesion and Altered Cell Cycle Progression
Authors: Al-khayyat Wuroud , Pirkkanen Jake , Dougherty Jessica , Laframboise Taylor , Dickinson Noah , Khaper Neelam , Lees Simon J. , Mendonca Marc S. , Boreham Douglas R. , Tai Tze Chun , Thome Christopher , Tharmalingam Sujeenthar
Published: September 2023

FRA1 (FOSL1) is a transcription factor and a member of the activator protein-1 superfamily. FRA1 is expressed in most tissues at low levels, and its expression is robustly induced in response to extracellular signals, leading to downstream cellular processes. However, abnormal FRA1 overexpression has been reported in various pathological states, including tumor progression and inflammation. To date, the molecular effects of FRA1 overexpression are still not understood. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the transcriptional and functional effects of FRA1 overexpression using the CGL1 human hybrid cell line. FRA1-overexpressing CGL1 cells were generated using stably integrated CRISPR-mediated transcriptional activation, resulting in a 2–3 fold increase in FRA1 mRNA and protein levels. RNA-sequencing identified 298 differentially expressed genes with FRA1 overexpression. Gene ontology analysis showed numerous molecular networks enriched with FRA1 overexpression, including transcription-factor binding, regulation of the extracellular matrix and adhesion, and a variety of signaling processes, including protein kinase activity and chemokine signaling. In addition, cell functional assays demonstrated reduced cell adherence to fibronectin and collagen with FRA1 overexpression and altered cell cycle progression. Taken together, this study unravels the transcriptional response mediated by FRA1 overexpression and establishes the role of FRA1 in adhesion and cell cycle progression.
Stimulator of Interferon Genes (STING) Triggers Adipocyte Autophagy
Authors: Varga Kornél Z. , Gyurina Katalin , Radványi Ádám , Pál Tibor , Sasi-Szabó László , Yu Haidong , Felszeghy Enikő , Szabó Tamás , Röszer Tamás
Published: September 2023

Innate immune signaling in adipocytes affects systemic metabolism. Cytosolic nucleic acid sensing has been recently shown to stimulate thermogenic adipocyte differentiation and protect from obesity; however, DNA efflux from adipocyte mitochondria is a potential proinflammatory signal that causes adipose tissue dysfunction and insulin resistance. Cytosolic DNA activates the stimulator of interferon response genes (STING), a key signal transducer which triggers type I interferon (IFN-I) expression; hence, STING activation is expected to induce IFN-I response and adipocyte dysfunction. However, we show herein that mouse adipocytes had a diminished IFN-I response to STING stimulation by 2′3′-cyclic-GMP-AMP (cGAMP). We also show that cGAMP triggered autophagy in murine and human adipocytes. In turn, STING inhibition reduced autophagosome number, compromised the mitochondrial network and caused inflammation and fat accumulation in adipocytes. STING hence stimulates a process that removes damaged mitochondria, thereby protecting adipocytes from an excessive IFN-I response to mitochondrial DNA efflux. In summary, STING appears to limit inflammation in adipocytes by promoting mitophagy under non-obesogenic conditions.
Early Pharmacodynamic Changes Measured Using RNA Sequencing of Peripheral Blood from Patients in a Phase I Study with Mitazalimab, a Potent CD40 Agonistic Monoclonal Antibody
Authors: Andersson Hampus , Sobti Aastha , Jimenez David Gomez , de Coaña Yago Pico , Ambarkhane Sumeet Vijay , Hägerbrand Karin , Smith Karin Enell , Lindstedt Malin , Ellmark Peter
Published: September 2023

CD40-targeting therapies can enhance the dendritic cell priming of tumor-specific T cells and repolarize intratumoral macrophages to alleviate the tumoral immunosuppressive environment and remodel the extracellular matrix. Mitazalimab is a potent agonistic CD40 monoclonal IgG1 antibody currently under clinical development. This study used RNA sequencing of blood samples from a subset of patients from a Phase I trial with mitazalimab (NCT02829099) to assess peripheral pharmacodynamic activity. We found that mitazalimab induced transient peripheral transcriptomic alterations (at 600 µg/kg and 900 µg/kg dose administered intravenously), which mainly were attributed to immune activation. In particular, the transcriptomic alterations showed a reduction in effector cells (e.g., CD8+ T cells and natural killer cells) and B cells peripherally with the remaining cells (e.g., dendritic cells, monocytes, B cells, and natural killer cells) showing transcription profiles consistent with activation. Lastly, distinct patient subgroups based on the pattern of transcriptomic alterations could be identified. In summary, the data presented herein reinforce the anticipated mode of action of mitazalimab and support its ongoing clinical development.
Is the High Healing Index a Complication of Progressive Long Bone Lengthening? Observations from a Cohort of 178 Children Treated with Circular External Fixation for Lower Limb Length Discrepancy
Authors: Depaoli Alessandro , Magnani Marina , Casamenti Agnese , Cerasoli Tosca , Ramella Marco , Menozzi Grazia Chiara , Mordenti Marina , Rocca Gino , Trisolino Giovanni
Published: September 2023

The use of external fixators (EFs) for lower limb lengthening is common for treating lower limb length discrepancy (LLD) in children. The concern at present revolves around extended treatment times, with some suggesting a healing index (HI) > 45 days/cm as a major complication. The aim of this study is to assess the factors affecting bone healing and treatment duration in children who undergo limb lengthening for LLD using circular EFs. A total of 240 lengthening procedures on 178 children affected by congenital or acquired LLDs (mean age at surgery 13.8 ± 2.8 years) were retrospectively evaluated. Complications according to Lascombes’ classification and treatment duration factors were analyzed. Mean HI was 57 ± 25 days/cm for the femur and 55 ± 24 days/cm for the tibia, with an HI > 45 days/cm in 64% of the procedures. A total of 189 procedures (79%) reported complications; 85 had an HI > 45 days/cm as the sole complication. While reducing the frame time is crucial, revising the classifications is necessary to avoid the overestimation of complications.
Association between the Clinical, Laboratory and Ultrasound Characteristics and the Etiology of Peripheral Lymphadenopathy in Children
Authors: Berce Vojko , Rataj Nina , Dorič Maja , Zorko Aleksandra , Kolarič Tjaša
Published: September 2023

Peripheral lymphadenopathy affects most children at least once in a lifetime and represents a major reason for concern. Therefore, we aimed to identify the most common causes of peripheral lymphadenopathy in hospitalized children and to determine the clinical, laboratory and ultrasound characteristics that enable fast, easy and accurate etiological diagnosis. We performed a cross-sectional study including 139 children who were hospitalized because of peripheral lymphadenopathy. Ultrasound of lymph nodes was performed in 113 (81.3%) patients. Lymphadenopathy was generalized in nine (6.5%) patients. Malignant etiology was established in only three (2.2%) patients. Bacterial lymphadenitis, infectious mononucleosis (IM) and cat scratch disease (CSD) were diagnosed in 66 (47.5%), 31 (22.3%) and 29 (20.9%) patients, respectively. Bacterial lymphadenitis was significantly associated with neutrophilia (p < 0.01), and increased C-reactive protein levels (p < 0.01). IM was associated with pharyngitis (p < 0.01), leukocytosis without neutrophilia (p = 0.03) and increased blood liver enzyme levels (p < 0.01). CSD was associated with recent contact with a cat (p < 0.01), absence of a fever (p < 0.01) and normal white blood cell count (p < 0.01). Thorough history and clinical examination in combination with a few basic laboratory tests enable fast and accurate differentiation between the most common etiologies of lymphadenopathy in children to avoid unnecessary procedures and hospitalizations.
Complications of Mandibular Distraction Osteogenesis in Infants with Isolated Robin Sequence
Authors: Mao Zhe , Tian Gabriel , Shrivastava Mayank , Zhou Jiawei , Ye Liang
Published: September 2023

Mandibular Distraction Osteogenesis (MDO) is now the preferred procedure to alleviate airway obstruction in infants with severe Robin Sequence (RS). However, there have been very few studies investigating complications related to MDO surgery performed on patients affected by isolated RS. In this study, age at distraction, weight at distraction, preoperative intubation, repeat MDO and complications associated with MDO were included as variables. Minor, moderate and major problems were evaluated and recorded as surgical site infections (SSI), injuries to the facial nerve, self-extinction hypertrophic scars, temporomandibular joint ankylosis, device failures, early ossification and fibrous non-union. One hundred and fifty one patients with isolated RS were included. At distraction, the mean age was 72 days (12–540 days) and the mean weight was 4.05 kg (2.4–12.2 kg). Only one patient needed tracheostomy after MDO, and none required further distraction. Ultimately, the complication rate was 15.23%, and there was a total of 7.95% minor, 9.27% moderate and 0% major complications. Minor incidents included surgical site infection (SSI) managed with antibiotics taken orally (n = 8), neuropraxia in the VII cranial nerve (CN) (n = 1), and hypertrophic scarring (n = 3). Incidents reported as moderate were SSIs managed with intravenous antibiotics (n = 9), incision and drainage (n = 3) and self-extubation (n = 2). There was no case of TMJ ankylosis. There were no cases of early or premature ossification, fibrous non-union and device fracture. In conclusion, MDO is an effective and appropriate management technique for infants with isolated RS and severe airway obstruction. Infections at the surgery site accounted for the vast majority of the complications. Further investigations may be needed to determine the long-term consequences of MDO.
IGF1 Genetic Polymorphism and the Association between Vitamin D Status and BMI Percentiles in Children
Authors: Eilat-Adar Sigal , Kassem Eias , Sindiani Mahmood , Ben-Zaken Sigal
Published: September 2023

Both the IGF1 axis and hypovitaminosis D play a role in childhood obesity, either as a cause or a causality. While some studies suggest an interrelation between vitamin D status, IGF1, and obesity, this mechanism remains obscure. The aim of this study, therefore, was to explore associations between four genetic polymorphisms in the IGF1 axis in hypovitaminosis D-related obesity. The study included 116 pre-pubertal Israeli Arab children (52 girls), mean age 9.4 ± 2.6. Serum 25(OH)D was measured and anthropometric measures were obtained. Genomic DNA was extracted from peripheral EDTA-treated anti-coagulated blood using a standard protocol. Genotypes were determined using the Taqman allelic discrimination assay. The IGF genetic score was computed according to the additive genetic score model. A moderate-to-high negative correlation (r = 0.580, p < 0.05) was seen between the vitamin D status and body mass index (BMI) percentile of participants with high GS. Yet, no correlations were seen between vitamin D status and BMI percentile for participants with a low-to-moderate genetic score (GS) (GS ≤ 2). These results suggest that IGF1 genetic scores associated with elevated circulating IGF1 may indicate a tendency toward developing hypovitaminosis D-associated obesity.
Study on the Ageing Characteristics of Silicone Rubber for Composite Insulators under Multi-Factor Coupling Effects
Authors: Li Xinran , Zhang Yuming , Chen Lincong , Fu Xiaotao , Geng Jianghai , Liu Yunpeng , Gong Yijing , Zhang Simin
Published: September 2023

Due to long-term exposure to high electrical field strength, heavy loads, and the complex climatic conditions in tropical coastal areas of China, widespread abnormal heating phenomena often occur in the operation of composite insulators in power transmission lines, posing a threat to the safe and stable operation of the power system. To study the ageing process of the silicone rubber sheath of composite insulators in the high-field, high-humidity, high-temperature, and high-salt-density environments along the coastal regions, this paper establishes a humidity–heat–electricity–salt spray accelerated ageing test platform and conducts ageing tests on silicone rubber materials for composite insulators under the coupled effect of multiple factors. The ageing characteristics of silicone rubber materials are analyzed using scanning electron microscopy, Fourier infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and other methods. The results show that the coupled ageing factors have an impact on the surface morphology of silicone rubber. The continuous depolymerization of PDMS molecular chains leads to a decrease in the content of groups related to the hydrophobicity of the material, resulting in a deterioration of its hydrophobicity. Moreover, the degradation of silicone rubber materials and the enhanced moisture absorption capacity lead to an increase in the dielectric loss tangent of the saturated moisture-absorbing medium, thereby causing abnormal heating of the sheath at the end of the composite insulator. The research findings of this study are of significant reference value for revealing the degradation mechanism of composite insulator silicone rubber sheaths in tropical island environments and improving the service life of composite insulators.
Impact of Bulk and Nano Bismuth Oxide on the Attenuation Parameters of Bentonite Barite Composites
Authors: Abbas Mahmoud I. , Gouda Mona M. , EL-Shimy Sarah N. , Dib Mirvat F. , Abdellatif Hala M. , Baharoon Raqwana , Elsafi Mohamed , El-Khatib Ahmed M.
Published: September 2023

Since bentonite can absorb neutrons and gamma rays without sacrificing structural integrity, it is frequently used as the main shielding material in many nuclear installations. Recently, there has been a trend toward enhancing the shielding qualities of bentonite by adding various chemicals. However, the majority of the added materials either require particular handling procedures or pose health risks. The availability of environmentally friendly additives would be wonderful. The addition of barite to bentonite composites greatly raises the density of the specimens. Additionally, the performance of bentonite–barite composites as radiation shielding materials is improved by adding various amounts of bulk and nano Bi2O3 as a filler (6%, 13%, and 20%). Energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) was used to determine the chemical makeup of the produced specimens. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) pictures showed the samples’ cross-sections’ porosity and homogeneity. 241Am, 133Ba, 137Cs, and 60Co are radioactive sources that emit energies of 59.53, 80.99, 356.01, 661.66, 1173.23, and 1332.5 keV, respectively, and the NaI (Tl) scintillation detector was used in this investigation. The area under the peak of the observed energy spectra was measured using the Genie 2000 program in both the specimen’s absence and presence. The coefficients for linear and mass attenuation were calculated. To determine the theoretical mass attenuation coefficients, the XCOM program was utilized and then compared to the corresponding experimental values. Various radiation shielding parameters dependent on the linear attenuation coefficient were computed for each studied composite. These parameters include the mean free path (MFP), half value layer (HVL), and tenth value layer (TVL). Also, the Zeff and the EABF were determined for each specimen. According to the findings, bismuth oxide was added to bentonite–barite composites to reduce the transmitted flux through the specimens, which increased the LAC of the bentonite–barite composites. Furthermore, adding nanosized bismuth oxide particles increased the sample’s density and improved the material’s shielding properties. At a photon energy of 0.356 keV, the relative deviation (∆%) between the experimental nano- and micro values for Bi2O3 (20 wt%) was 12.1974, confirming that the nanoparticles increase attenuation efficiency.
Electrochemical Properties of Carbon Nanobeads and Mesophase-Pitch-Based Graphite Fibers as Anodes for Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Wang Liyong , Liu Tiantian , Ji Shengsheng , Yang Shiwen , Wang Huiqi , Yang Jinhua
Published: September 2023

Various strategies have been devised to enhance the specific capacity (over 372 mA h g−1) and the cycle life of pure carbon-based anode materials for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). Herein, we have prepared carbon nanobeads (CNBs) with inner onion-like carbon layer structures using chemical vapor deposition. Additionally, mesophase-pitch-based graphite fibers (MPGFs) were fabricated via the melt spinning method. MPGFs had a reversible capacity of 328.2 mA h g−1 with a steady Coulombic efficiency after 105 cycles (at 0.05 mA g−1). When cycled at 0.2 A g−1, the CNBs kept a reversible capacity of 586.2 mA h g−1 after 256 cycles with stable Coulombic efficiency. The onion-like carbon layer structures of CNBs were beneficial to the storage of lithium ions. In this work, CNBs were fabricated with inner onion-like carbon layer structures to enhance the electrochemical performance of LIBs.
Effects of Bias Voltage and Substrate Temperature on the Mechanical Properties and Oxidation Behavior of CrWSiN Films
Authors: Chang Li-Chun , Tzeng Chin-Han , Ou Tzu-Yu , Chen Yung-I
Published: September 2023

CrWSiN films were prepared through the co-sputtering technique, and the process variables were substrate bias voltage and temperature. The mechanical properties of hardness and elastic modulus of the CrWSiN films were dominantly affected by their average crystallite size and by substrate bias voltage and temperature. Moreover, the effect of substrate temperature was more evident than that of substrate bias. The highest hardness and elastic modulus of 42.6 and 459 GPa, respectively, were obtained for the Cr20W28Si9N43 film fabricated at a substrate temperature of 400 °C, which exhibits an evident advantage over the 25.0 and 323 GPa values for the Cr21W28Si9N42 film fabricated at room temperature. In contrast, an increase in negative bias voltage to −100 V on the substrate decreased the mechanical properties compared to one prepared using a similar process without applying the negative bias voltage. The oxidation resistance of the Cr-enriched Cr37W4Si10N49 and Cr37W5Si10N48 films was superior to that of the Cr20W28Si9N43 films with near-equal Cr and W contents annealed at 900 °C in air. The formation of a surficial Cr2O3 layer plays a vital role in restricting subsequent oxidation for CrWSiN films.
The Surface Modification of ZrO2 Film by Zr/Nb Ion Implantation and First-Principles Calculation
Authors: Gao Yuan , Wang Luyao , Li Dejun
Published: September 2023

Zirconium dioxide (ZrO2) possesses numerous advantages such as high mechanical strength, a low friction coefficient, excellent optical properties, and an extended lifespan. Consequently, ZrO2 has a broad research foundation and practical significance in functional films and wear-resistant coatings. However, it suffers from brittleness and low ductility when used as a bio-coating material. In this study, a ZrO2 film was fabricated on Si (100) and titanium alloy substrates using a magnetron sputtering system. Subsequently, Zr and Nb ions were implanted into the film at varying doses, but with consistent energy levels. The analysis focused on the film’s microstructure, mechanical properties, hydrophilicity, and corrosion resistance. The results demonstrate a significant improvement in the hydrophilicity and corrosion resistance of the ZrO2 film following the implantation of Zr and Nb ions. First-principles calculations based on density functional theory (DFT) principles indicated that, with increasing doping concentrations of Zr and Nb in the ZrO2 model, the stability of the model increased gradually, thereby enhancing its corrosion resistance. The developed product has propelled rapid advancements in fields such as biomedical implants.
Analyzing Public Reactions, Perceptions, and Attitudes during the MPox Outbreak: Findings from Topic Modeling of Tweets
Authors: Thakur Nirmalya , Duggal Yuvraj Nihal , Liu Zihui
Published: September 2023

In the last decade and a half, the world has experienced outbreaks of a range of viruses such as COVID-19, H1N1, flu, Ebola, Zika virus, Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS), measles, and West Nile virus, just to name a few. During these virus outbreaks, the usage and effectiveness of social media platforms increased significantly, as such platforms served as virtual communities, enabling their users to share and exchange information, news, perspectives, opinions, ideas, and comments related to the outbreaks. Analysis of this Big Data of conversations related to virus outbreaks using concepts of Natural Language Processing such as Topic Modeling has attracted the attention of researchers from different disciplines such as Healthcare, Epidemiology, Data Science, Medicine, and Computer Science. The recent outbreak of the MPox virus has resulted in a tremendous increase in the usage of Twitter. Prior works in this area of research have primarily focused on the sentiment analysis and content analysis of these Tweets, and the few works that have focused on topic modeling have multiple limitations. This paper aims to address this research gap and makes two scientific contributions to this field. First, it presents the results of performing Topic Modeling on 601,432 Tweets about the 2022 Mpox outbreak that were posted on Twitter between 7 May 2022 and 3 March 2023. The results indicate that the conversations on Twitter related to Mpox during this time range may be broadly categorized into four distinct themes—Views and Perspectives about Mpox, Updates on Cases and Investigations about Mpox, Mpox and the LGBTQIA+ Community, and Mpox and COVID-19. Second, the paper presents the findings from the analysis of these Tweets. The results show that the theme that was most popular on Twitter (in terms of the number of Tweets posted) during this time range was Views and Perspectives about Mpox. This was followed by the theme of Mpox and the LGBTQIA+ Community, which was followed by the themes of Mpox and COVID-19 and Updates on Cases and Investigations about Mpox, respectively. Finally, a comparison with related studies in this area of research is also presented to highlight the novelty and significance of this research work.
Explain Trace: Misconceptions of Control-Flow Statements
Authors: Sychev Oleg , Denisov Mikhail
Published: September 2023

Control-flow statements often cause misunderstandings among novice computer science students. To better address these problems, teachers need to know the misconceptions that are typical at this stage. In this paper, we present the results of studying students’ misconceptions about control-flow statements. We compiled 181 questions, each containing an algorithm written in pseudocode and the execution trace of that algorithm. Some of the traces were correct; others contained highlighted errors. The students were asked to explain in their own words why the selected line of the trace was correct or erroneous. We collected and processed 10,799 answers from 67 CS1 students. Among the 24 misconceptions we found, 6 coincided with misconceptions from other studies, and 7 were narrower cases of known misconceptions. We did not find previous research regarding 11 of the misconceptions we identified.
Predictive Modeling of Student Dropout in MOOCs and Self-Regulated Learning
Authors: Psathas Georgios , Chatzidaki Theano K. , Demetriadis Stavros N.
Published: September 2023

The primary objective of this study is to examine the factors that contribute to the early prediction of Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) dropouts in order to identify and support at-risk students. We utilize MOOC data of specific duration, with a guided study pace. The dataset exhibits class imbalance, and we apply oversampling techniques to ensure data balancing and unbiased prediction. We examine the predictive performance of five classic classification machine learning (ML) algorithms under four different oversampling techniques and various evaluation metrics. Additionally, we explore the influence of self-reported self-regulated learning (SRL) data provided by students and various other prominent features of MOOCs as potential indicators of early stage dropout prediction. The research questions focus on (1) the performance of the classic classification ML models using various evaluation metrics before and after different methods of oversampling, (2) which self-reported data may constitute crucial predictors for dropout propensity, and (3) the effect of the SRL factor on the dropout prediction performance. The main conclusions are: (1) prominent predictors, including employment status, frequency of chat tool usage, prior subject-related experiences, gender, education, and willingness to participate, exhibit remarkable efficacy in achieving high to excellent recall performance, particularly when specific combinations of algorithms and oversampling methods are applied, (2) self-reported SRL factor, combined with easily provided/self-reported features, performed well as a predictor in terms of recall when LR and SVM algorithms were employed, (3) it is crucial to test diverse machine learning algorithms and oversampling methods in predictive modeling.
Dynamic Analysis of Multilayered Piezoelectric Quasicrystal Three-Dimensional Sector Plates with Imperfect Interfaces
Authors: Wang Yuxuan , Feng Xin , Zhang Liangliang , Pan Ernian , Gao Yang
Published: September 2023

Piezoelectric quasicrystals have attracted extensive attention due to their unique physical and mechanical properties. This paper studies the dynamic response of multilayered two-dimensional decagonal piezoelectric quasicrystal sector plates with imperfect interfaces. Based on the quasicrystal linear elasticity, partial differential state equations along the thickness direction are derived by using the state-space method. Then, by virtue of the differential quadrature method and the Fourier series expansions, this boundary-value problem with mixed boundary conditions and imperfect interfaces is solved. In addition, via the joint coupling matrix, the field quantities in the interior of the structure are connected to those on the external surfaces with numerical instability. Finally, parameter studies on the effects of angular spans, imperfect interfaces, and mixed boundary conditions are numerically investigated where the dimensionless frequencies and modes are exhibited.
Graphene Production and Biomedical Applications: A Review
Authors: Malisz Klaudia , Świeczko-Żurek Beata
Published: September 2023

Graphene is a two-dimensional nanomaterial composed of carbon atoms with sp2 hybrid orbitals. Both graphene and graphene-based composite have gained broad interest among researchers because of their outstanding physiochemical, mechanical, and biological properties. Graphene production techniques are divided into top-down and bottom-up synthesis methods, of which chemical vapor deposition (CVD) is the most popular. The biomedical applications of graphene and its composite include its use in sensors, implantology, and gene and drug delivery. They can be used for tissue engineering, anticancer therapies, and as antimicrobial agents in implant application. The biocompatibility of graphene-based nanomaterials enables their use in the field of biomedicine. This article reviews the properties of graphene, the methods used to produce it, the challenges associated with its use, and the potential applications of this material in biomedicine, regenerative medicine, and drug delivery systems.
Effect of Graphene on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of WC-Based Cemented Carbide
Authors: Qi Wanzhen , Zhao Zhiwei , Qian Yanju , Zhang Shijie , Zheng Hongjuan , Zhao Xiaomiao , Lu Xinpo , Wang Shun
Published: September 2023

WC-based cemented carbides were prepared by spark plasma sintering (SPS) of WC-Co-Cr3C2-VC alloy powder by adding different contents of graphene. The phase composition, microstructure, mechanical properties, and magnetic properties of cemented carbide were investigated by means of XRD, SEM, Vickers hardness and fracture toughness tests, and magnetic properties tests. The results showed that the mechanical properties of the specimens show a trend of first increasing and then decreasing with the increase in graphene content. After adding 0.6 wt.% graphene, graphene is uniformly distributed on the substrate in the form of flakes, WC grain size decreases, the hardness of the specimen increases to 2009 HV, the relative density increases to 94.3%, the fracture toughness is 11.72 MPa·m1/2, and the coercivity of the sample is 437.55 Oe. Therefore, cemented carbide with a graphene content of 0.6 wt.% has excellent comprehensive performance (Vickers hardness and fracture toughness).
Flux Growth and Raman Spectroscopy Study of Cu2CrBO5 Crystals
Authors: Moshkina Evgeniya , Eremin Evgeniy , Molokeev Maxim , Kokh Dieter , Krylov Alexander
Published: September 2023

Multicomponent flux systems based on both Li2WO4-B2O3-Li2O-CuO-Cr2O3 and Bi2O3-MoO3-B2O3-Na2O-CuO-Cr2O3 were studied in order to grow Cu2CrBO5 crystals. The conditions for Cu2CrBO5 crystallization were investigated by varyingthe component ratios, and the peculiarities of their interaction were characterized by studying the formation sequence of high-temperature crystallizing phases. Special attention was paid to the problem of Cr2O3 solubility. Phase boundaries between CuCrO2, Cu2CrO4, and Cu2CrBO5 were considered. The crystal structure of the obtained samples was studied viasingle crystal and powder X-ray diffraction. The chemical composition of the grown crystals was examined using the EDX technique. Anactual ratio of Cu:Cr = 1.89:1.11 was found for Cu2CrBO5 grown from the lithium-tungstate system, which showed a small deviation from 2:1, implying the presence of a part of bivalent Cr2+ in the samples. Anomalies in the thermal dependence of magnetization were analyzed and compared with the previously obtained data for Cu2CrBO5. The anomaly at TC ≈ 42 K and the antiferromagnetic phase transition at TN ≈ 119 K were considered. Polarized Raman spectra of Cu2CrBO5 were obtained for the first time, and a comparative analysis of the obtained data with other monoclinic and orthorhombic ludwigites is presented. Along with the polarized room temperature spectra, the thermal evolution of Raman modes near the antiferromagnetic phase transition temperature TN ≈ 119 K is provided. The influence of the magnetic phase transition on the Raman spectra of Cu2CrBO5 is discussed.
High Resistivity and High Mobility in Localized Beryllium-Doped InAlAs/InGaAs Superlattices Grown at Low Temperature
Authors: Dai Deyan , Liu Hanqing , Su Xiangbin , Shang Xiangjun , Li Shulun , Ni Haiqiao , Niu Zhichuan
Published: September 2023

InAlAs:Be/InGaAs superlattices grown at low temperatures were investigated in this study. To obtain the highest resistivity and mobility simultaneously, a growth temperature above 200 °C was applied. The electrical properties were conducted via Hall effect measurement and a photoresponse test. The experimental results demonstrate that the sample grown at 257.5~260 °C exhibits the highest resistivity (1290 Ω × cm) and lowest carrier concentration (3.18 × 1014 cm−3), along with the highest mobility (187.2 cm2/Vs). Furthermore, the highest photoresponse (1.21) relative to dark resistivity was obtained under 1500 nm excitation. The optimized growth parameter of InGaAs/InAlAs multilayered structures is of great significance for fabricating high-performance terahertz photoconductive semiconductor antennas.
A Highly Transparent β-Ga2O3 Thin Film-Based Photodetector for Solar-Blind Imaging
Authors: He Miao , Zeng Qing , Ye Lijuan
Published: September 2023

Ultra-wide bandgap Ga2O3-based optoelectronic devices have attracted considerable attention owing to their special significance in military and commercial applications. Using RF magnetron sputtering and post-annealing, monoclinic Ga2O3 films of various thicknesses were created on a c-plane sapphire substrate (0001). The structural and optical properties of β-Ga2O3 films were then investigated. The results show that all β-Ga2O3 films have a single preferred orientation (2(_)01) and an average transmittance of more than 96% in the visible wavelength range (380–780 nm). Among them, the sample with a 90-minute sputtering time has the best crystal quality. This sample was subsequently used to construct a metal-semiconductor-metal (MSM), solar-blind, ultraviolet photodetector. The resulting photodetector not only exhibits excellent stability and sunblind characteristics but also has an ultra-high responsivity (46.3 A/W) and superb detectivity (1.83 × 1013 Jones). Finally, the application potential of the device in solar-blind ultraviolet imaging was verified.
The Effect of SrO Addition on the Recrystallization of ZrSiO4 in Raw Glass–Ceramic Glazes from the SiO2-Al2O3-CaO-MgO-K2O-ZrO2 System
Authors: Partyka Janusz , Pasiut Katarzyna , Kozień Dawid
Published: September 2023

The aim of this experiment was to determine the effect of the addition of strontium oxide on the recrystallization of zirconium silicate when adding strontium oxide to the glaze composition. Zirconia glazes (four different contents) were prepared, to which strontium oxide was added in amounts of 0, 1, 3, 6, and 12 mass% SrO. The characteristic temperatures of the raw glazes were measured, based on which the maximum firing temperatures were determined. The fired glazes were subjected to a study of their phase compositions and an observation of their microstructures. An analysis of the characteristic temperatures showed a fluxing effect, but it was not as strong for all glazes. Differences in the amount of the crystalline phase of zirconium silicate obtained in the fired glazes, as well as the partial transition of zirconium silicate to the amorphous phase, were observed. Observations of the microstructure clearly indicated an increase in the homogeneity of the distribution of zirconium silicate.
Genetic Evaluation of a Wildtype Population of Cornus mas Accessions in Austria
Authors: Borroto Fernandez Eduviges G. , Khayatzadeh Negar , Mészáros Gábor , Fink Simon , Hanzer Veronika , Sölkner Johann , Laimer Margit
Published: September 2023

Cornus mas grows in the “Cornelian Cherry Valley” in Lower Austria. The characterization of the biodiversity of this underutilized crop was undertaken to increase its visibility and to develop breeding parameters. To determine the genetic relationships among Austrian Cornelian cherries, a collection of 447 mainly wild accessions originating from four regions in Lower Austria were genotyped. Analyses of seven microsatellite loci detected a total of 74 alleles, with 10.57 being the average number per locus. Shannon’s index was calculated to be 0.95 in locus CM008 and 1.80 in locus CM020. The average values of observed and expected heterozygosity were 0.54 ± 0.11 and 0.70 ± 0.12. The analyses revealed a high level of diversity. All accessions could be distinguished from each other, and wild and cultivated accessions could be separated. The pattern of grouping of the accessions based on the STRUCTURE (version 2.3.4) analyses suggested a greater number of subpopulations (K = 9). Karyotyping consistently yielded diploid chromosome numbers 2n = 2x = 18 for a millennial accession. The evaluations yielded a high degree of diversity, which provides excellent starting conditions for considerations of breeding strategies for the genetic enhancement of C. mas in Austria.
Exploiting the Potential of Magnetic Nanoparticles for Rapid Diagnosis Tests (RDTs): Nanoparticle-Antibody Conjugates and Color Development Strategies
Authors: Ha Yeonjeong
Published: September 2023

Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) have emerged as a promising material in disease diagnostics due to their potential to enhance detection sensitivity, facilitate concentration and purification of target substances in diverse samples, and enable favorable color-based detection. In this study, antibody-conjugated MNPs were successfully synthesized and validated through two appropriate methods: the measurement of MNPs’ size and the use of phosphatase methods. Additionally, three methods were suggested and implemented for developing color in MNPs-based immunoassay, including the formation of MNP aggregations, utilization of MNPs’ peroxidase-like activity, and synthesis of dually-conjugated MNPs with both enzyme and antibody. In particular, color development utilizing nanoparticle aggregations was demonstrated to result in a more yellowish color as virus concentration increased, while the peroxidase activity of MNPs exhibited a proportional increase in color intensity as the MNP concentration increased. This observation suggests the potential applicability of quantitative analysis using these methods. Furthermore, effective concentration and purification of target substances were demonstrated through the collection of MNPs using an external magnetic field, irrespective of factors such as antibody conjugation, dispersion medium, or virus binding. Finally, based on the key findings of this study, a design proposal for MNPs-based immunoassay is presented. Overall, MNPs-based immunoassays hold significant potential for advancing disease diagnostics.
Progress in the Diagnostic and Predictive Evaluation of Crush Syndrome
Authors: Luo Yu , Liu Chunli , Li Duo , Yang Bofan , Shi Jie , Guo Xiaoqin , Fan Haojun , Lv Qi
Published: September 2023

Crush syndrome (CS), also known as traumatic rhabdomyolysis, is a syndrome with a wide clinical spectrum; it is caused by external compression, which often occurs in earthquakes, wars, and traffic accidents, especially in large-scale disasters. Crush syndrome is the second leading cause of death after direct trauma in earthquakes. A series of clinical complications caused by crush syndrome, including hyperkalemia, myoglobinuria, and, in particular, acute kidney injury (AKI), is the main cause of death in crush syndrome. The early diagnosis of crush syndrome, the correct evaluation of its severity, and accurate predictions of a poor prognosis can provide personalized suggestions for rescuers to carry out early treatments and reduce mortality. This review summarizes various methods for the diagnostic and predictive evaluation of crush syndrome, including urine dipstick tests for a large number of victims, traditional and emerging biomarkers, imaging-assisted diagnostic methods, and developed evaluation models, with the aim of providing materials for scholars in this research field.
Deep Learning with Automatic Data Augmentation for Segmenting Schisis Cavities in the Optical Coherence Tomography Images of X-Linked Juvenile Retinoschisis Patients
Authors: Wei Xing , Li Hui , Zhu Tian , Li Wuyi , Li Yamei , Sui Ruifang
Published: September 2023

X-linked juvenile retinoschisis (XLRS) is an inherited disorder characterized by retinal schisis cavities, which can be observed in optical coherence tomography (OCT) images. Monitoring disease progression necessitates the accurate segmentation and quantification of these cavities; yet, current manual methods are time consuming and result in subjective interpretations, highlighting the need for automated and precise solutions. We employed five state-of-the-art deep learning models—U-Net, U-Net++, Attention U-Net, Residual U-Net, and TransUNet—for the task, leveraging a dataset of 1500 OCT images from 30 patients. To enhance the models’ performance, we utilized data augmentation strategies that were optimized via deep reinforcement learning. The deep learning models achieved a human-equivalent accuracy level in the segmentation of schisis cavities, with U-Net++ surpassing others by attaining an accuracy of 0.9927 and a Dice coefficient of 0.8568. By utilizing reinforcement-learning-based automatic data augmentation, deep learning segmentation models demonstrate a robust and precise method for the automated segmentation of schisis cavities in OCT images. These findings are a promising step toward enhancing clinical evaluation and treatment planning for XLRS.
Association of Inflammatory Cytokine Levels with Extra Glandular Manifestations, Fatigue, and Disease Activity in Primary Sjögren’s Syndrome in Saudi Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Alqahtani Bashaer , Daghestani Maha , Omair Mohammed A. , Alhamad Esam H. , Tashkandy Yusra , Othman Nashwa , Al Shahrani Khalid , Paramasivam Muthurajan P. , Alenzi Fahidah , Halwani Rabih , Alkhulaifi Fadwa M. , Alomar Suliman Yousef
Published: September 2023

Background: Primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS) is an autoimmune disease that can cause fatigue and extraglandular manifestations (EGMs). pSS is associated with cytokine network dysregulation, which may be related to the immune-mediated destruction of exocrine glands. Objective: We determined cytokine levels and their relationship to EGMs, the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) Sjögren’s syndrome disease activity index (ESSDAI), and fatigue in Saudi patients with pSS. Methods: This study was a cross-sectional, single-center study. We included forty-one patients and 71 controls. Serum samples were collected from random healthy people and pSS patients who were followed in the rheumatology and pulmonary clinics of King Saud University Medical City in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Levels of the frequently studied cytokines were measured using Luminex xMAP technology. Each ESSDAI score and EGM were recorded, and the Arabic version of the fatigue severity scale (FSS) was applied to assess fatigue. The main outcome measures were cytokine levels in pSS Saudi patients using/not using immune-suppressive medications (ISMs). Results: Thirty-six (87.8%) patients had one or more EGMs, and the mean ESSDAI score was 9.95 ± 7.73. There was a significant decrease in TNFα and IL-21 levels in the pSS group compared to those in the control group (p = 0.034 and p < 0.001, respectively), whereas IL-12 levels were significantly elevated in the pSS group (p = 0.002). Cytokine levels in patients who used ISMs were the same as those in patients who did not use medications. Decreased IL-1β (p = 0.014), IL-2 (p = 0.035), IL-6 (p = 0.014), and IL-35 (p = 0.010) levels were observed in patients who had EGMs. Patients who had low disease activity exhibited low IL-10 (p = 0.018) and high IFN-α (p = 0.049), IFN-β (p = 0.049), IL-1β (p = 0.006), and IL-35 (p = 0.032) levels compared to patients with high disease activity. A negative association between a positive fatigue score and IL-1β (p = 0.010), IL-2 (p = 0.037), IFN-α (p = 0.025), TNFα (p = 0.030), IL-17 (p = 0.029), IL-12 (p = 0.046), and IL-21 (p = 0.005) levels was found. Conclusions: Cytokine profiles correlate with EGMs, ESSDAI, and fatigue. Patients with controlled disease activity have a normal cytokine profile that is similar to that of controls.
Artificial Intelligence and Radiomics: Clinical Applications for Patients with Advanced Melanoma Treated with Immunotherapy
Authors: McGale Jeremy , Hama Jakob , Yeh Randy , Vercellino Laetitia , Sun Roger , Lopci Egesta , Ammari Samy , Dercle Laurent
Published: September 2023

Immunotherapy has greatly improved the outcomes of patients with metastatic melanoma. However, it has also led to new patterns of response and progression, creating an unmet need for better biomarkers to identify patients likely to achieve a lasting clinical benefit or experience immune-related adverse events. In this study, we performed a focused literature survey covering the application of artificial intelligence (AI; in the form of radiomics, machine learning, and deep learning) to patients diagnosed with melanoma and treated with immunotherapy, reviewing 12 studies relevant to the topic published up to early 2022. The most commonly investigated imaging modality was CT imaging in isolation (n = 9, 75.0%), while patient cohorts were most frequently recruited retrospectively and from single institutions (n = 7, 58.3%). Most studies concerned the development of AI tools to assist in prognostication (n = 5, 41.7%) or the prediction of treatment response (n = 6, 50.0%). Validation methods were disparate, with two studies (16.7%) performing no validation and equal numbers using cross-validation (n = 3, 25%), a validation set (n = 3, 25%), or a test set (n = 3, 25%). Only one study used both validation and test sets (n = 1, 8.3%). Overall, promising results have been observed for the application of AI to immunotherapy-treated melanoma. Further improvement and eventual integration into clinical practice may be achieved through the implementation of rigorous validation using heterogeneous, prospective patient cohorts.