bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of High Glucose on Human Endothelial Cells Exposed to Simulated Microgravity
Authors: Jokšienė Justina , Sahana Jayashree , Wehland Markus , Schulz Herbert , Cortés-Sánchez José Luis , Prat-Duran Judit , Grimm Daniela , Simonsen Ulf
Published: January 2023

A diabetogenic state induced by spaceflight provokes stress and health problems in astronauts. Microgravity (µg) is one of the main stressors in space causing hyperglycaemia. However, the underlying molecular pathways and synergistic effects of µg and hyperglycaemia are not fully understood. In this study, we investigated the effects of high glucose on EA.hy926 endothelial cells in simulated µg (s-µg) using a 3D clinostat and static normogravity (1g) conditions. After 14 days of cell culture under s-µg and 1g conditions, we compared the expression of extracellular matrix (ECM), inflammation, glucose metabolism, and apoptosis-related genes and proteins through qPCR, immunofluorescence, and Western blot analyses, respectively. Apoptosis was evaluated via TUNEL staining. Gene interactions were examined via STRING analysis. Our results show that glucose concentrations had a weaker effect than altered gravity. µg downregulated the ECM gene and protein expression and had a stronger influence on glucose metabolism than hyperglycaemia. Moreover, hyperglycaemia caused more pronounced changes in 3D cultures than in 2D cultures, including bigger and a greater number of spheroids, upregulation of NOX4 and the apoptotic proteins NF-κB and CASP3, and downregulation of fibronectin and transglutaminase-2. Our findings bring new insights into the possible molecular pathways involved in the diabetogenic vascular effects in µg.
Influence of Fish Handling Practices Onboard Purse Seiners on Quality Parameters of Sardines (Sardina pilchardus) during Cold Storage
Authors: Janči Tibor , Gauta Tonka , Putnik Predrag , Kanski Danijel , Lovrinov Mario
Published: January 2023

Small pelagic fish are a rich source of high-quality proteins and omega-3 fatty acids, but they are highly perishable due to the activity of microorganisms, endogenous enzymes, and oxidation processes that affect their muscle tissues during storage. This study focused on analyzing the influence of fish handling practices onboard vessels on sensory quality attributes, pH, water holding capacity, TVB-N, proteolytic changes, and lipid oxidation in sardine muscle tissue during cold storage. Experiments were conducted onboard fishing vessels during regular work hours, with added consistency, accounting for similar sardine sizes (physiological and reproductive stages) under similar environmental conditions. Traditional handling practices, e.g., boarding the catch with brail nets and transporting the fish in plastic crates with flake ice, were compared with the use of modified aquaculture pumps for boarding the catch and transporting it in isothermic boxes submerged in ice slurry. Results confirmed significant differences in the parameters among the different fishing vessels, although no significant differences were found between the two methods of fish handling on board the vessels. The study also confirmed a higher rate of lipid oxidation in fish muscle due to physical damage and an increased degree of proteolysis in samples with lower muscle pH values.
Hepatoprotective Efficacy of Cycloastragenol Alleviated the Progression of Liver Fibrosis in Carbon-Tetrachloride-Treated Mice
Authors: Luangmonkong Theerut , Puphancharoensuk Pittaya , Tongsongsang Varisara , Olinga Peter , Parichatikanond Warisara
Published: January 2023

The continuous death of hepatocytes induced by various etiologies leads to an aberrant tissue healing process and promotes the progression of liver fibrosis and ultimately chronic liver diseases. To date, effective treatments to delay this harmful process remain an unmet clinical need. Cycloastragenol is an active phytochemical substance isolated from Astragalus membranaceus, a plant used in traditional Chinese medicine to protect the liver. Therefore, our study aimed to elucidate the efficacy of cycloastragenol on carbon-tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver fibrosis in mice. We found that cycloastragenol at 200 mg/kg dosage exhibited anti-fibrotic efficacy as demonstrated by a decrease in collagen deposition, downregulation of mRNA expression of collagen type 1, and a reduction in the content of total collagens. In addition, cycloastragenol further augmented the levels of anti-fibrotic matrix metalloproteinases (Mmps), that is, Mmp8, proMmp9, and Mmp12, which play a pivotal role in fibrosis resolution. According to histological analysis and serum markers of hepatotoxicity, cycloastragenol protected the livers from damage and mitigated the increment of serum alanine aminotransferase and bilirubin implicating hepatoprotective efficacy against CCl4. Moreover, cycloastragenol upregulated the mRNA expression of interleukin 6, a pleiotropic cytokine plays a vital role in the promotion of hepatocyte regeneration. In conclusion, cycloastragenol alleviated the progression of liver fibrosis in CCl4-treated mice and its anti-fibrotic efficacy was mainly due to the hepatoprotective efficacy.
Subcortical Structures in Demented Schizophrenia Patients: A Comparative Study
Authors: Rivas Juan , Gutierrez-Gomez Santiago , Villanueva-Congote Juliana , Libreros Jose , Camprodon Joan Albert , Trujillo María
Published: January 2023

There are few studies on dementia and schizophrenia in older patients looking for structural differences. This paper aims to describe relation between cognitive performance and brain volumes in older schizophrenia patients. Twenty schizophrenic outpatients —10 without-dementia (SND), 10 with dementia (SD)— and fifteen healthy individuals —as the control group (CG)—, older than 50, were selected. Neuropsychological tests were used to examine cognitive domains. Brain volumes were calculated with magnetic resonance images. Cognitive performance was significantly better in CG than in schizophrenics. Cognitive performance was worst in SD than SND, except in semantic memory and visual attention. Hippocampal volumes showed significant differences between SD and CG, with predominance on the right side. Left thalamic volume was smaller in SD group than in SND. Structural differences were found in the hippocampus, amygdala, and thalamus; more evident in the amygdala and thalamus, which were mainly related to dementia. In conclusion, cognitive performance and structural changes allowed us to differentiate between schizophrenia patients and CG, with changes being more pronounced in SD than in SND. When comparing SND with SD, the functional alterations largely coincide, although sometimes in the opposite direction. Moreover, volume lost in the hippocampus, amygdala, and thalamus may be related to the possibility to develop dementia in schizophrenic patients.
Sex-Specific Patterns of Diaphragm Phospholipid Content and Remodeling during Aging and in a Model of SELENON-Related Myopathy
Authors: Bargui Rezlène , Solgadi Audrey , Dumont Florent , Prost Bastien , Vadrot Nathalie , Filipe Anne , Ho Andrew T. V. , Ferreiro Ana , Moulin Maryline
Published: January 2023

Growing evidence shows that the lipid bilayer is a key site for membrane interactions and signal transduction. Surprisingly, phospholipids have not been widely studied in skeletal muscles, although mutations in genes involved in their biosynthesis have been associated with muscular diseases. Using mass spectrometry, we performed a phospholipidomic profiling in the diaphragm of male and female, young and aged, wild type and SelenoN knock-out mice, the murine model of an early-onset inherited myopathy with severe diaphragmatic dysfunction. We identified 191 phospholipid (PL) species and revealed an important sexual dimorphism in PLs in the diaphragm, with almost 60% of them being significantly different between male and female animals. In addition, 40% of phospholipids presented significant age-related differences. Interestingly, SELENON protein absence was responsible for remodeling of 10% PL content, completely different in males and in females. Expression of genes encoding enzymes involved in PL remodeling was higher in males compared to females. These results establish the diaphragm PL map and highlight an important PL remodeling pattern depending on sex, aging and partly on genotype. These differences in PL profile may contribute to the identification of biomarkers associated with muscular diseases and muscle aging.
Acknowledgment to the Reviewers of BioTech in 2022
Authors:   BioTech Editorial Office
Published: January 2023

High-quality academic publishing is built on rigorous peer review [...]
On the Relationship between Value- and Threat-Driven Attentional Capture and Approach-Avoidance Biases
Authors: Kim Haena , Anderson Brian A.
Published: January 2023

Reward learning and aversive conditioning have consequences for attentional selection, such that stimuli that come to signal reward and threat bias attention regardless of their valence. Appetitive and aversive stimuli have distinctive influences on response selection, such that they activate an approach and an avoidance response, respectively. However, whether the involuntary influence of reward- and threat-history-laden stimuli extends to the manner in which a response is directed remains unclear. Using a feedback-joystick task and a manikin task, which are common paradigms for examining valence-action bias, we demonstrate that reward- and threat-signalling stimuli do not modulate response selection. Stimuli that came to signal reward and threat via training biased attention and invigorated action in general, but they did not facilitate an approach and avoidance response, respectively. We conclude that attention can be biased towards a stimulus as a function of its prior association with reward or aversive outcomes without necessarily influencing approach vs. avoidance tendencies, such that the mechanisms underlying the involuntary control of attention and behaviour evoked by valent stimuli can be decoupled.
The Inter/Transdisciplinary Framework for Urban Governance Intervention in the Egyptian Informal Settlements
Authors: El Nachar Eman , Abouelmagd Doaa
Published: January 2023

There is a need to understand the complex nature of informal settlements to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 11: “Making cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable”. Thus, addressing the urban governance of informal settlements requires an inter/trans-disciplinary scope to reach a cross-cutting agenda that combines social/behavioral, economics, and public health with the built environment disciplines. Respectively, this paper aims to establish an integrative framework based upon a blended inter/trans-disciplinary approach of urban governance for informal settlements in Egypt. The study adopts a theoretical analytic methodology to achieve its aim by reviewing the literature on informal settlement policies. It argues that the inter/trans-disciplinarity approach contributes to integrative urban governance agendas that enhance the quality of life of informal settlements. While exploring three bottom-up perspectives of understanding the formation of informal urban settings—socioeconomic, morphological, and sociophysical—an integrative model is developed to allow a contextual perspective for examining informal domains. The model is articulated to guide the purpose of the multidimensional analysis methods for investigating informal contexts. An integrative agenda with six analysis tasks, each involving interdisciplinary group of academics, experts, stakeholders, and authorized representatives, is outlined by the method originated in this paper. Ultimately, and concerning aspects of sustainable urban cities, the paper introduces an integrative agenda that enables overcoming gaps in current upgrading practices when examining the informal settlements of the Egyptian contexts.
Understanding and Predicting Localised Variations in the Degradation Rate of Architectural, Organically Coated, Steel Cladding
Authors: Savill Tim , Jewell Eifion
Published: January 2023

Organically coated architectural steel provides an economic, visually attractive, innovation friendly and robust building cladding. However, its performance, usually calculated using accelerated weathering and ‘artificial’ outdoor weathering testing, can be compromised within specific areas of the building envelope. The exact reasons for this are not fully understood. In an attempt to discern where and why performance varies, an investigation is carried out into some possible reasons for the performance discrepancy, and it is concluded that a combination of high humidity and the build-up of aggressive natural deposits contribute to high degradation rates in sheltered regions, such as building eaves, where microclimates are created. The build-up of deposits and their effect is presented as a key degradation accelerant during in-use service. A numerical simulation approach is developed to predict the natural washing, via rain impact and characteristics of the building analysed. This approach shows promise for determining areas unlikely to be naturally washed, and therefore subjected to a degradation accelerating, build-up of deposits. It is shown that such a simulation could be used to optimize the building design process to promote natural washing as well as provide an area-of-concern map in which exposed cut edge should be avoided and any manual inspection should be concentrated. It is also shown that nearby buildings can provide sheltering effects leading to decreased natural washing, increased deposit build-up and ultimately accelerated failure.
Therapeutic Targeting of ALK in Neuroblastoma: Experience of Italian Precision Medicine in Pediatric Oncology
Authors: Pastorino Fabio , Capasso Mario , Brignole Chiara , Lasorsa Vito A. , Bensa Veronica , Perri Patrizia , Cantalupo Sueva , Giglio Serena , Provenzi Massimo , Rabusin Marco , Pota Elvira , Cellini Monica , Tondo Annalisa , De Ioris Maria A. , Sementa Angela R. , Garaventa Alberto , Ponzoni Mirco , Amoroso Loredana
Published: January 2023

Neuroblastoma (NB) is the most common extracranial solid tumor in childhood. Patients with relapsed/refractory disease have a poor prognosis, and additional therapeutic options are needed. Mutations and amplifications in the ALK (Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase) gene constitute a key target for treatment. Our goal, within the Italian project of PeRsonalizEdMEdicine (PREME), was to evaluate the genomic status of patients with relapsed/refractory NB and to implement targeted therapies in those with targetable mutations. From November 2018 to November 2021, we performed Whole Exome Sequencing or Targeted Gene Panel Sequencing in relapsed/refractory NB patients in order to identify druggable variants. Activating mutations of ALK were identified in 8(28.57%) of 28 relapsed/refractory NB patients. The mutation p.F1174L was found in six patients, whereas p.R1275Q was found in one and the unknown mutation p.S104R in another. Three patients died before treatment could be started, while five patients received crizotinib: two in monotherapy (one with p.F1174L and the other with p.S104R) and three (with p.F1174L variant) in combination with chemotherapy. All treated patients showed a clinical improvement, and one had complete remission after two cycles of combined treatment. The most common treatment-related toxicities were hematological. ALK inhibitors may play an important role in the treatment of ALK-mutated NB patients.
Standardising Breast Radiotherapy Structure Naming Conventions: A Machine Learning Approach
Authors: Haidar Ali , Field Matthew , Batumalai Vikneswary , Cloak Kirrily , Al Mouiee Daniel , Chlap Phillip , Huang Xiaoshui , Chin Vicky , Aly Farhannah , Carolan Martin , Sykes Jonathan , Vinod Shalini K. , Delaney Geoffrey P. , Holloway Lois
Published: January 2023

In progressing the use of big data in health systems, standardised nomenclature is required to enable data pooling and analyses. In many radiotherapy planning systems and their data archives, target volumes (TV) and organ-at-risk (OAR) structure nomenclature has not been standardised. Machine learning (ML) has been utilised to standardise volumes nomenclature in retrospective datasets. However, only subsets of the structures have been targeted. Within this paper, we proposed a new approach for standardising all the structures nomenclature by using multi-modal artificial neural networks. A cohort consisting of 1613 breast cancer patients treated with radiotherapy was identified from Liverpool & Macarthur Cancer Therapy Centres, NSW, Australia. Four types of volume characteristics were generated to represent each target and OAR volume: textual features, geometric features, dosimetry features, and imaging data. Five datasets were created from the original cohort, the first four represented different subsets of volumes and the last one represented the whole list of volumes. For each dataset, 15 sets of combinations of features were generated to investigate the effect of using different characteristics on the standardisation performance. The best model reported 99.416% classification accuracy over the hold-out sample when used to standardise all the nomenclatures in a breast cancer radiotherapy plan into 21 classes. Our results showed that ML based automation methods can be used for standardising naming conventions in a radiotherapy plan taking into consideration the inclusion of multiple modalities to better represent each volume.
An Update on the Treatment of Papillary Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Chawla Neal S. , Sayegh Nicolas , Prajapati Sweta , Chan Elyse , Pal Sumanta K. , Chehrazi-Raffle Alexander
Published: January 2023

Papillary renal cell carcinoma (pRCC) is the second-most common subtype of kidney cancer following clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), representing 15% of kidney cancers. Despite advances in therapy, including combination strategies with targeted therapies and immune checkpoint inhibitors, progress has lagged behind that of ccRCC. This is in part due to the heterogenous nature of the various subtypes of pRCC. More recently, investigators have turned efforts towards histology and biology-based trials. In this review, we outline some of the distinct biological characteristics of pRCC and discuss the most impactful clinical trials to date. Finally, we look ahead to several highly anticipated ongoing trials in pRCC.
Human ApoE2 Endows Stronger Contractility in Rat Cardiomyocytes Enhancing Heart Function
Authors: Wu Yang , Zhao Fujie , Sure Venkata N. , Ibrahim Abdulgafar , Yu Changjiang , Carr Sean M. , Song Ping
Published: January 2023

(1) Background: Apolipoprotein E (ApoE) is a critical plasma apolipoprotein for lipid transport and nonlipid-related functions. Humans possess three isoforms of ApoE (2, 3, and 4). ApoE2, which exhibits beneficial effects on cardiac health, has not been adequately studied. (2) Methods: We investigated the cardiac phenotypes of the humanized ApoE knock-in (hApoE KI) rats and compared to wild-type (WT) and ApoE knock-out (ApoE KO) rats using echocardiography, ultrasound, blood pressure measurements, histology strategies, cell culture, Seahorse XF, cardiomyocyte contractility and intracellular Ca2+ tests, and Western blotting; (3) Results: hApoE2 rats exhibited enhanced heart contractile function without signs of detrimental remodeling. Isolated adult hApoE2 cardiomyocytes had faster and stronger sarcomere contractility because of more mitochondrial energy generation and stimulation-induced fast and elevated intracellular Ca2+ transient. The abundant energy is a result of elevated mitochondrial function via fatty acid β-oxidation. The fast and elevated Ca2+ transient is associated with decreased sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+ ATPase (SERCA2) and increased expression of cardiac ryanodine receptor 2 (RyR2) conducting a potent Ca2+ release from SR.; (4) Conclusions: Our studies validated the association of polymorphic ApoEs with cardiac health in the rat model, and revealed the possible mechanisms of the protective effect of ApoE2 against heart diseases.
Acknowledgment to the Reviewers of Ceramics in 2022
Authors:   Ceramics Editorial Office
Published: January 2023

High-quality academic publishing is built on rigorous peer review [...]
Fabrication of GO/Fe3O4@Au MNPs for Magnetically Enriched and Adsorptive SERS Detection of Bifenthrin
Authors: Song Ying , Xiao Kunyue , Chen Qiang , Zhang Xiaodong , Yu Zhi , Chen Wenwen , Zhang Xiubing , Zhang De , Ni Dejiang , Liang Pei
Published: January 2023

The detection of bifenthrin is closely related to the adsorption of SERS substrates. In this study, superparamagnetic Fe3O4@Au MNPs coated with GO were used to detect the adsorption and enrichment of bifenthrin molecules with benzene rings. Firstly, the thermal solvent method synthesized Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) with a particle size of ~250 nm. Next, polyethylene imide (PEI) was used as an intermediate layer to modify the surface of Fe3O4 to form a positively charged ultra-thin polymer middle layer. Next, the gold shell was developed by adsorption of ~20 nm AuNPs, without affecting the magnetic properties. Then, the additional amount of colloidal gold and GO on SERS performance was systematically studied. Using crystal violet (CV) as the probe, we investigated the SERS performance of composite nanomaterials. The lowest detected concentration reached 10−8 mol/L, confirming that the composite functional material had good SERS activity and magnetic properties. Finally, the substrate was used to detect bifenthrin in an acetone solution, and the lowest detection concentration was 10−8 mol/L. These results showed that the prepared GO/Fe3O4@Au MNPs were efficient SERS substrates that could detect bifenthrin pesticide residue with high sensitivity.
Acknowledgment to the Reviewers of Clean Technologies in 2022
Authors:   Clean Technologies Editorial Office
Published: January 2023

High-quality academic publishing is built on rigorous peer review [...]
Study of Optical and Electrical Properties of RF-Sputtered ZnSe/ZnTe Heterojunctions for Sensing Applications
Authors: Panaitescu Ana-Maria , Antohe Vlad-Andrei
Published: January 2023

Cadmium (Cd)-free photodiodes based on n-type Zinc Selenide/p-type Zinc Telluride (n-ZnSe/p-ZnTe) heterojunctions were prepared by Radio Frequency-Magnetron Sputtering (RF-MS) technique, and their detailed optical and electrical characterization was performed. Onto an optical glass substrate, 100 nm gold (Au) thin film was deposited by Thermal Vacuum Evaporation (TVE) representing the back-contact, followed by the successive RF-MS deposition of ZnTe, ZnSe, Zinc Oxide (ZnO) and Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) thin films, finally resulting in the Au/ZnTe/ZnSe/ZnO/ITO sub-micrometric “substrate”-type configuration. Next, the optical characterization by Ultraviolet-Visible (UV-VIS) spectroscopy was performed on the component thin films, and their optical band gap values were determined. The electrical measurements in the dark and under illumination at different light intensities were subsequently performed. The Current–Voltage (I–V) characteristics in the dark are nonlinear with a relatively high asymmetry, following the modified Shockley–Read equation. From their analysis, the series resistance, shunt resistance, the ideality factor and saturation current were determined with high accuracy. It is worth noting that the action spectrum of the structure is shifted to short wavelengths. A sensibility test for the 420–500 nm range was performed while changing the intensity of the incident light from 100 mW/cm2 down to 10 mW/cm2 and measuring the photocurrent. The obtained results provided sufficient information to consider the present sub-micrometric photodiodes based on n-ZnSe/p-ZnTe heterojunctions to be more suitable for the UV domain, demonstrating their potential for integration within UV photodetectors relying on environmentally-friendly materials.
X-ray Detectors Based on Halide Perovskite Materials
Authors: Tan Yimei , Mu Ge , Chen Menglu , Tang Xin
Published: January 2023

Halide perovskite has remarkable optoelectronic properties, such as high atomic number, large carrier mobility-lifetime product, high X-ray attenuation coefficient, and simple and low-cost synthesis process, and has gradually developed into the next-generation X-ray detection materials. Halide perovskite-based X-ray detectors can improve the sensitivity and reduce the detectable X-ray dose, which is applied in imaging, nondestructive industrial inspection, security screening, and scientific research. In this article, we introduce the fabrication methods of halide perovskite film and the classification and progress of halide perovskite-based X-ray detectors. Finally, the existing challenges are discussed, and the possible directions for future applications are explored. We hope this review can stimulate the further improvement of perovskite-based X-ray detectors.
Acknowledgment to the Reviewers of Compounds in 2022
Authors:   Compounds Editorial Office
Published: January 2023

High-quality academic publishing is built on rigorous peer review [...]
Detection of Surface States in Quantum Materials ZrTe2 and TmB4 by Scanning Tunneling Microscopy
Authors: Ale Crivillero Maria Victoria , Souza Jean C. , Hasse Vicky , Schmidt Marcus , Shitsevalova Natalya , Gabáni Slavomir , Siemensmeyer Konrad , Flachbart Karol , Wirth Steffen
Published: January 2023

Scanning Tunneling Microscopy and Spectroscopy (STM/S), with its exceptional surface sensitivity and exquisite energy resolution, is well suited for the investigation of surface states down to atomic length scales. As such, it became an essential tool to probe the surface states of materials, including those with non-trivial topology. One challenge, however, can be the preparation of clean surfaces which allow the study of preferably unchanged surface properties with respect to the bulk amount. Here, we report on the STM/S of two materials, ZrTe2 and TmB4. The former cleaves easily and defects can be examined in detail. However, our STS data can only qualitatively be compared to the results of band structure calculations. In the case of TmB4, the preparation of suitable surfaces is highly challenging, and atomically flat surfaces (likely of B-termination) were only encountered rarely. We found a large density of states (DOS) at the Fermi level EF and a mostly featureless differential conductance near EF. Further efforts are required to relate our results to the electronic structure predicted by ab initio calculations.
Acknowledgment to the Reviewers of Crops in 2022
Authors:   Crops Editorial Office
Published: January 2023

High-quality academic publishing is built on rigorous peer review [...]
Bipolar Switching Properties of GdOx:SiO2 Thin Film Resistive Random Access Memory Using Co-Sputtering Technology
Authors: Chen Kai-Huang , Cheng Chien-Min , Wang Na-Fu , Zhou Jia-Cheng , Chen Mei-Li
Published: January 2023

Using two kinds of targets (gallium and silicon dioxide) and the rf magnetron sputtering deposited technique, GdOx:SiO2 thin film RRAM devices were deposited on TiN/Si substrate to form a metal–insulator–metal (MIM) structure. In addition, different oxygen concentrations and rf sputtering power parameters were prepared for the GdOx:SiO2 thin films. Decrease of the defects and oxygen vacancies of the GdOx:SiO2 thin films were used and repaired by rapid thermal annealing technology. Indium tin oxide (ITO) as the top electrode on the GdOx:SiO2 thin film was prepared by the physical vapor deposition (PVD) method, and ITO/GdOx:SiO2/TiN/Si structures of the GdOx:SiO2 thin films’ RRAM devices were also made. In addition, the current–voltage curves and devices’ endurance properties were measured by an impedance analyzer. Finally, the crystalline style, the preferred phase, the grain size, and surface microstructure of the thin films were analyzed and observed from X-ray diffraction and field emission scanning electron microscope measurements.
Comparative Study of the Influence of Heat Treatment and Additive Manufacturing Process (LMD & L-PBF) on the Mechanical Properties of Specimens Manufactured from 1.2709
Authors: Gnaase Stefan , Niggemeyer Dennis , Lehnert Dennis , Bödger Christian , Tröster Thomas
Published: January 2023

(1) This work answers the question of whether and to what extent there is a significant difference in mechanical properties when different additive manufacturing processes are applied to the material 1.2709. The Laser-Powder-Bed-Fusion (L-PBF) and Laser-Metal-Deposition (LMD) processes are considered, as they differ fundamentally in the way a part is manufactured. (2) Known process parameters for low-porosity parts were used to fabricate tensile strength specimens. Half of the specimens were heat-treated, and all specimens were tested for mechanical properties in a quasi-static tensile test. In addition, the material hardness was determined. (3) It was found that, firstly, heat treatment resulted in a sharp increase in mechanical properties such as hardness, elastic modulus, yield strength and ultimate strength. In addition to the increase in these properties, the elongation at break also decreases significantly after heat treatment. The choice of process, on the other hand, does not give either process a clear advantage in terms of mechanical properties but shows that it is necessary to consider the essential mechanical properties for a desired application.
Habitat Provision and Erosion Are Influenced by Seagrass Meadow Complexity: A Seascape Perspective
Authors: Ferretto Giulia , Vergés Adriana , Poore Alistair G. B. , Glasby Tim M. , Griffin Kingsley J.
Published: January 2023

Habitat complexity plays a critical role in shaping biotic assemblages and ecosystem processes. While the impacts of large differences in habitat complexity are often well understood, we know less about how subtle differences in structure affect key ecosystem functions or properties such as biodiversity and biomass. The late-successional seagrass Posidonia australis creates vital habitat for diverse fauna in temperate Australia. Long-term human impacts have led to the decline of P. australis in some estuaries of eastern Australia, where it is now classified as an endangered ecological community. We examined the influence of P. australis structural complexity at small (seagrass density) and large (meadow fragmentation) spatial scales on fish and epifauna communities, predation and sediment erosion. Fine-scale spatially balanced sampling was evenly distributed across a suite of environmental covariates within six estuaries in eastern Australia using the Generalised Random Tessellation Structures approach. We found reduced erosion in areas with higher P. australis density, greater abundance of fish in more fragmented areas and higher fish richness in vegetated areas further from patch edges. The abundance of epifauna and fish, and fish species richness were higher in areas with lower seagrass density (seagrass density did not correlate with distance to patch edge). These findings can inform seagrass restoration efforts by identifying meadow characteristics that influence ecological functions and processes.
SARS-CoV-2 Detection via RT-PCR in Matched Saliva and Nasopharyngeal Samples Reveals High Concordance in Different Commercial Assays
Authors: de Sousa Karoline Almeida Felix , Nonaka Carolina Kymie Vasques , de Ávila Mendonça Renata Naves , Mascarenhas Verena Neiva , Weber Thamires Gomes Lopes , Regis Silva Carlos Gustavo , Mendes Ana Verena Almeida , Khouri Ricardo , Souza Bruno Solano Freitas , Gurgel Rocha Clarissa Araújo
Published: January 2023

Background: Self-collected saliva samples can increase the diagnostic efficiency and benefit healthcare workers, patient care, and infection control. This study evaluated the performance of self-collected saliva samples compared to nasopharyngeal swabs using three commercial kits for the qualitative detection of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Methods: Matched nasopharyngeal and saliva samples were collected from 103 patients with either asymptomatic or symptomatic COVID-19. Both samples were evaluated using three commercial kits (TaqCheck, Allplex, and TaqPath). To evaluate sample stability, viral RNA extraction was performed in the presence or absence of an RNA-stabilizing solution. Storage conditions, including the duration, temperature, and stability after freezing and thawing of the samples, were also evaluated. Results: All the saliva samples showed 100% concordance with the nasopharyngeal swab results using TaqCheck and Allplex kits, and 93% using TaqPath kit. No difference was observed in the samples that used the RNA-stabilizing solution compared to the group without the solution. The Ct values of the freeze–thawed samples after 30 days were higher than those on day 0; however, the results were consistent the fresh samples. Conclusion: The high concordance of SARS-CoV-2 detection via reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) in matched saliva and nasopharyngeal samples using different commercial assays reinforces the concept that self-collected saliva samples are non-invasive, rapid, and reliable for diagnosing SARS-CoV-2 infection.
The Role of CT Imaging in Characterization of Small Renal Masses
Authors: Bazzocchi Maria Vittoria , Zilioli Carlotta , Gallone Vita Ida , Commisso Claudia , Bertolotti Lorenzo , Pagnini Francesco , Ziglioli Francesco , Maestroni Umberto , Aliprandi Alberto , Buti Sebastiano , Procopio Giuseppe , Ascenti Giorgio , Martini Chiara , De Filippo Massimo
Published: January 2023

Small renal masses (SRM) are increasingly detected incidentally during imaging. They vary widely in histology and aggressiveness, and include benign renal tumors and renal cell carcinomas that can be either indolent or aggressive. Imaging plays a key role in the characterization of these small renal masses. While a confident diagnosis can be made in many cases, some renal masses are indeterminate at imaging and can present as diagnostic dilemmas for both the radiologists and the referring clinicians. This review focuses on CT characterization of small renal masses, perhaps helping us understand small renal masses. The following aspects were considered for the review: (a) assessing the presence of fat, (b) assessing the enhancement, (c) differentiating renal tumor subtype, and (d) identifying valuable CT signs.
Multi-Level Thresholding Image Segmentation Based on Improved Slime Mould Algorithm and Symmetric Cross-Entropy
Authors: Jiang Yuanyuan , Zhang Dong , Zhu Wenchang , Wang Li
Published: January 2023

Multi-level thresholding image segmentation divides an image into multiple regions of interest and is a key step in image processing and image analysis. Aiming toward the problems of the low segmentation accuracy and slow convergence speed of traditional multi-level threshold image segmentation methods, in this paper, we present multi-level thresholding image segmentation based on an improved slime mould algorithm (ISMA) and symmetric cross-entropy for global optimization and image segmentation tasks. First, elite opposition-based learning (EOBL) was used to improve the quality and diversity of the initial population and accelerate the convergence speed. The adaptive probability threshold was used to adjust the selection probability of the slime mould to enhance the ability of the algorithm to jump out of the local optimum. The historical leader strategy, which selects the optimal historical information as the leader for the position update, was found to improve the convergence accuracy. Subsequently, 14 benchmark functions were used to evaluate the performance of ISMA, comparing it with other well-known algorithms in terms of the optimization accuracy, convergence speed, and significant differences. Subsequently, we tested the segmentation quality of the method proposed in this paper on eight grayscale images and compared it with other image segmentation criteria and well-known algorithms. The experimental metrics include the average fitness (mean), standard deviation (std), peak signal to noise ratio (PSNR), structure similarity index (SSIM), and feature similarity index (FSIM), which we utilized to evaluate the quality of the segmentation. The experimental results demonstrated that the improved slime mould algorithm is superior to the other compared algorithms, and multi-level thresholding image segmentation based on the improved slime mould algorithm and symmetric cross-entropy can be effectively applied to the task of multi-level threshold image segmentation.
A Three-Dimensional ResNet and Transformer-Based Approach to Anomaly Detection in Multivariate Temporal–Spatial Data
Authors: Xu Lijuan , Ding Xiao , Zhao Dawei , Liu Alex X. , Zhang Zhen
Published: January 2023

Anomaly detection in multivariate time series is an important problem with applications in several domains. However, the key limitation of the approaches that have been proposed so far lies in the lack of a highly parallel model that can fuse temporal and spatial features. In this paper, we propose TDRT, a three-dimensional ResNet and transformer-based anomaly detection method. TDRT can automatically learn the multi-dimensional features of temporal–spatial data to improve the accuracy of anomaly detection. Using the TDRT method, we were able to obtain temporal–spatial correlations from multi-dimensional industrial control temporal–spatial data and quickly mine long-term dependencies. We compared the performance of five state-of-the-art algorithms on three datasets (SWaT, WADI, and BATADAL). TDRT achieves an average anomaly detection F1 score higher than 0.98 and a recall of 0.98, significantly outperforming five state-of-the-art anomaly detection methods.
Structure Simulation and Equilibrium Evaluation Analysis of Regional Water Resources, Society, Economy and Ecological Environment Complex System
Authors: Wu Chengguo , Wang Xiaoyu , Jin Juliang , Zhou Yuliang , Bai Xia , Zhou Liangguang , Tong Fang , Zhang Libing , Cui Yi
Published: January 2023

Currently, the implementation of water resource spatial equilibrium strategy is a fundamental policy of water resource integrated management in China; it is also a considerable challenge to explore the relationship structure features of water resources, society, economy and ecological environment (WSEE) complex system. For this purpose, firstly, we applied information entropy, ordered degree and connection number coupling method to reveal the membership characteristics between different evaluation indicators and grade criterion. Secondly, the system dynamics approach was introduced to describe the relationship features among different equilibrium subsystems. Finally, the ordered degree, connection number, information entropy and system dynamics integrated model was established to conduct relationship structure simulation and evolution trend evaluation of the WSEE system. The application results in Hefei city, Anhui Province, China, demonstrated that: (1) the variation of overall equilibrium conditions of WSEE system in Hefei city, 2020–2029 was higher compared to that of 2010–2019, though the increasing rate of ordered degree and connection number entropy (ODCNE) became slower after 2019; and (2) the annual ODCNE value from 2020 to 2029 of WSEE system under dry year scenarios increased about 0.0812, which indicated that the construction of Yangtze-Huaihe Diversion (YHD) project could play significant positive role in mitigating the equilibrium situation of WSEE system in Hefei city in the future. On the whole, this study is capable of providing the guidance basis for constructing a theoretical framework of structure simulation and equilibrium evaluation analysis of WSEE complex system.
Computational Simulations of Fabrication of Aluminum-Based Josephson Junctions: Topological Aspects of the Barrier Structure
Authors: Han Chuanbing , Sun Huihui , Liu Fudong , Zhao Xiangju , Shan Zheng
Published: January 2023

Although the performance of qubits has been improved in recent years, the differences in the microscopic atomic structure of the Josephson junctions, the core devices prepared under different preparation conditions, are still underexplored. In this paper, the effects of the oxygen temperature and upper aluminum deposition rate on the topology of the barrier layer in the aluminum-based Josephson junctions have been presented by classical molecular dynamics simulations. We apply a Voronoi tessellation method to characterize the topology of the interface and central regions of the barrier layers. We find that when the oxygen temperature is 573 K and the upper aluminum deposition rate is 4 Å/ps, the barrier has the fewest atomic voids and the most closely arranged atoms. However, if only the atomic arrangement of the central region is considered, the optimal rate of the aluminum deposition is 8 Å/ps. This work provides microscopic guidance for the experimental preparation of Josephson junctions, which helps to improve the performance of qubits and accelerate the practical application of quantum computers.
Parameterization of the Stochastic Model for Evaluating Variable Small Data in the Shannon Entropy Basis
Authors: Bisikalo Oleh , Kharchenko Vyacheslav , Kovtun Viacheslav , Krak Iurii , Pavlov Sergii
Published: January 2023

The article analytically summarizes the idea of applying Shannon’s principle of entropy maximization to sets that represent the results of observations of the “input” and “output” entities of the stochastic model for evaluating variable small data. To formalize this idea, a sequential transition from the likelihood function to the likelihood functional and the Shannon entropy functional is analytically described. Shannon’s entropy characterizes the uncertainty caused not only by the probabilistic nature of the parameters of the stochastic data evaluation model but also by interferences that distort the results of the measurements of the values of these parameters. Accordingly, based on the Shannon entropy, it is possible to determine the best estimates of the values of these parameters for maximally uncertain (per entropy unit) distortions that cause measurement variability. This postulate is organically transferred to the statement that the estimates of the density of the probability distribution of the parameters of the stochastic model of small data obtained as a result of Shannon entropy maximization will also take into account the fact of the variability of the process of their measurements. In the article, this principle is developed into the information technology of the parametric and non-parametric evaluation on the basis of Shannon entropy of small data measured under the influence of interferences. The article analytically formalizes three key elements: -instances of the class of parameterized stochastic models for evaluating variable small data; -methods of estimating the probability density function of their parameters, represented by normalized or interval probabilities; -approaches to generating an ensemble of random vectors of initial parameters.
Acknowledgment to the Reviewers of Education Sciences in 2022
Authors:   Education Sciences Editorial Office
Published: January 2023

High-quality academic publishing is built on rigorous peer review [...]
A 10 GHz Compact Balun with Common Inductor on CMOS Process
Authors: Pakasiri Chatrpol , Xu Jian-Long , Wang Sen
Published: January 2023

This paper presents a compact balun with a common inductor design. The design used Wilkinson-type balun topology with modified lumped transmission lines and a common inductor to realize circuit size reduction on a lossy CMOS process. Measurements of the prototype chip had a reflection coefficient below 17.8 dB at all ports, an insertion loss of 1.98 dB, and an isolation of 16.8 dB. The chip size was only 0.025λ0 × 0.034λ0.
Improvement Breakdown Voltage by a Using Crown-Shaped Gate
Authors: Park Dong Gyu , Kim Hyunwoo , Kim Jang Hyun
Published: January 2023

In this paper, a crown-shaped trench gate formed by a sidewall spacer in insulated gate bipolar transistors (IGBT) is proposed to improve breakdown voltage. When a sidewall spacer is added to trench bottom corners, the electric field is distributed to the surface of the sidewall spacer and decreased to 48% peak value of the electric field. Thus, the sidewall spacer IGBT improved to 5% breakdown voltage. Another study proposed an additional oxide layer for trench bottom corners and improved breakdown voltage similar to the proposed IGBT. Previous studies have shown degradation in other electrical characteristics. However, this study shows a sidewall spacer IGBT that increases the current over 3% compared to a conventional trench IGBT when the applied gate voltage is under 4 V. Additionally, the turn-off loss characteristic is similar to conventional trench IGBT. Therefore, the breakdown voltage of the IGBT was improved while maintaining similar electrical properties to existing IGBTs through the crown-shaped gate.
Emerging Electronics Technologies and Solutions for Eco-Friendly Cities
Authors: Andriukaitis Darius , Pan Yongjun , Brida Peter
Published: January 2023

The development of electronic solutions and their application to smart cities are an inevitability [...]
Some Features of Modeling Ultrasound Propagation in Non-Destructive Control of Metal Structures Based on the Magnetostrictive Effect
Authors: Babak Vitalii , Bohachev Ihor , Zaporozhets Artur , Khaidurov Vladyslav , Havrysh Valerii , Kalinichenko Antonina
Published: January 2023

A method and mathematical models of direct and inverse problems of ultrasonic testing and diagnostics of complex metal structures for defects were developed and tested. A prototype of a system for magnetostrictive control of elements of the objects under study was manufactured and experimentally tested. Mathematical simulation of ultrasonic testing processes using MATLAB and the COMSOL Multiphysics software environment was carried out. The adequacy of the mathematical models was verified by the results of their comparison with real physical experiments. Information support and a methodology that implements it was developed, which ensure the functioning of the control facilities for these objects based on the use of small-aperture magnetostrictive transducers. The mathematical identification of the vibration generator in complex building structures was developed, which consists in finding the locations of the generator of ultrasonic vibrations, as well as the characteristics of this vibration generator based on data obtained from sensors in the form of time series.
Modelling of ML-Enablers in 5G Radio Access Network-Conceptual Proposal of Computational Framework
Authors: Tomala Malgorzata , Staniec Kamil
Published: January 2023

The fifth generation (5G) of mobile networks connects people, things, data, applications, transport systems, and cities in smart networked communication environments. With the growth in the amount of generated data, the number of wirelessly connected machines, traffic types, and associated requirements, ensuring high-quality mobile connectivity becomes incredibly difficult for technology suppliers. Mobile operators and network vendors enrolling in 5G face far more rapid demands than any technology before, and at the same time need to ensure efficiency and reliability in the network operations. In fact, intelligent forecasting and decision-making strategies are several of the centerpieces of current artificial intelligence research in various domains. Due to its strong fitting ability, machine learning is seen to have great potential to be employed to solve telecommunication networks’ optimization problems that range from the design of hardware elements to network self-optimization. This paper addresses the question of how to apply artificial intelligence to 5G radio access control and feed ML techniques with radio characteristic-based automatic data collection to achieve ML-based evaluation of 5G performance. The proposed methodology endorses ML tools for the 5G portfolio scenarios requirements assessment and integrates into the mature methods for network performance optimization: self-organizing networks (SON) and minimization of drive tests (MDT). In this context, the proposed treatment guides future network deployments and implementations adopted on a 3GPP standard basis.