bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tissue and Serum Biomarkers in Degenerative Aortic Stenosis-Insights into Pathogenesis, Prevention and Therapy
Authors: Kapelouzou Alkistis , Geronikolou Styliani , Lidoriki Irene , Kontogiannis Christos , Kaklamanis Loukas , Tsourelis Loukas , Cokkinos Dennis V.
Published: February 2023

Background and Aim. Degenerative Aortic Stenosis (DAS) is a common disease that causes substantial morbidity and mortality worldwide, especially in the older population. Our aim was to further investigate novel serum and tissue biomarkers to elucidate biological processes involved in this entity. Material and Methods. We evaluated the expression of six biomarkers significantly involved in cardiovascular pathology, i.e., irisin, periostin, osteoglycin, interleukin 18, high mobility group box 1 and proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 in the serum at the protein level, and in the tissue at both the protein and mRNA levels of patients with AS (N = 60). Five normal valves obtained after transplantation from hearts of patients with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy were also studied. Serum measurements were also performed in 22 individuals without valvular disease who served as controls (C). Results. Higher levels of all factors were found in DAS patients’ serum than in normal C. IHC and PCR mRNA tissue analysis showed the presence of all biomarkers in the aortic valve cusps with DAS, but no trace of PCR mRNA was found in the five transplantation valves. Moreover, periostin serum levels correlated significantly with IHC and mRNA tissue levels in AS patients. Conclusion. We showed that six widely prevalent biomarkers affecting the atherosclerotic process were also involved in DAS, suggesting a strong osteogenic and pro-inflammatory profile, indicating that aortic valve calcification is a multifactorial biological process.
Alterations in the Plasma Protein Expression Pattern in Congenital Analbuminemia—A Systematic Review
Authors: Foster Bailey M. , Abdollahi Afsoun , Henderson Gregory C.
Published: February 2023

Albumin is a highly abundant plasma protein with multiple functions, including the balance of fluid between body compartments and fatty acid trafficking. Humans with congenital analbuminemia (CAA) do not express albumin due to homozygosity for albumin gene mutation. Lessons about physiological control could be learned from CAA. Remarkably, these patients exhibit an apparently normal lifespan, without substantial impairments in physical functionality. There was speculation that tolerance to albumin deficiency would be characterized by significant upregulation of other plasma proteins to compensate for analbuminemia. It is unknown but possible that changes in plasma protein expression observed in CAA are required for the well-documented survival and general wellness. A systematic review of published case reports was performed to assess plasma protein pattern remodeling in CAA patients who were free of other illnesses that would confound interpretation. From a literature search in Pubmed, Scopus, and Purdue Libraries (updated October 2022), concentration of individual plasma proteins and protein classes were assessed. Total plasma protein concentration was below the reference range in the vast majority of CAA patients in the analysis, as upregulation of other proteins was not sufficient to prevent the decline of total plasma protein when albumin was absent. Nonetheless, an impressive level of evidence in the literature indicated upregulated plasma levels of multiple globulin classes and various specific proteins which may have metabolic functions in common with albumin. The potential role of this altered plasma protein expression pattern in CAA is discussed, and the findings may have implications for other populations with hypoalbuminemia.
Diffuse Myocardial Fibrosis on Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging Is Related to Galectin-3 and Predicts Outcome in Heart Failure
Authors: Screever Elles M. , Gorter Thomas M. , Willems Tineke P. , Aboumsallem Joseph Pierre , Suthahar Navin , Mahmoud Belend , van Veldhuisen Dirk J. , de Boer Rudolf A. , Meijers Wouter C.
Published: February 2023

Aims: Ongoing adverse remodeling is a hallmark of heart failure (HF), which might be reflected by either focal or diffuse myocardial fibrosis. Therefore, in (pre)clinical settings, we used immunohistochemistry or cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) to investigate the association of (focal or diffuse) fibrosis with cardiac biomarkers and adverse events in HF. Methods and results: In C57Bl/6J mice, we determined the presence and extent of myocardial fibrosis 6 weeks post-myocardial infarction (MI). Furthermore, we studied 159 outpatient HF patients who underwent CMR, and determined focal and diffuse fibrosis by late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) and post-contrast T1 time of the non-LGE myocardium, respectively. HF patients were categorized based on the presence of LGE, and by the median post-contrast T1 time. Kaplan–Meier and Cox regression analyses were used to determine the association of fibrosis with HF hospitalization and all-cause mortality. LGE was detected in 61 (38%) patients. Cardiac biomarker levels were comparable between LGE-positive and LGE-negative patients. LGE-positive patients with a short T1 time had elevated levels of both NT-proBNP and galectin-3 (1611 vs. 453 ng/L, p = 0.026 and 20 vs. 15 μg/L, p = 0.004, respectively). This was not observed in LGE-negative patients. Furthermore, a short T1 time in LGE-positive patients was associated with a higher risk of adverse events (log-rank p = 0.01). Conclusion: This study implies that cardiac biomarkers reflect active remodeling of the non-infarcted myocardium of patients with focal myocardial scarring. Diffuse fibrosis, in contrast to focal scarring, might have a higher prognostic value regarding adverse outcomes in HF patients.
The Sickle-Cell Fiber Revisited
Authors: Bishop Marilyn F. , Ferrone Frank A.
Published: February 2023

Sickle cell disease is the consequence of a single point mutation on the surface of the β chains of the hemoglobin molecule leading to the formation of rigid polymers that disrupt circulation. It has long been established that the polymers are comprised of seven pairs of double strands that are twisted replicas of the double strands found in crystals. Here, we review several newer developments that elaborate on that simple model and provide deeper insights into the process.
Involvement of Gut Microbiota in SLE and Lupus Nephritis
Authors: Mohd Rozita , Chin Siok-Fong , Shaharir Syahrul Sazliyana , Cham Qin Shi
Published: February 2023

Lupus nephritis is a severe manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). It is caused by immune dysregulation and kidney inflammation. In recent findings, gut microbiota potentially acts as primary mediators to enhance immune complex deposition, complement activation, and macrophage infiltration, and led to renal inflammation. Gut inflammation, known as leaky gut, allows pathogenic bacteria to enter the blood stream to form immune complexes which deposit on the kidney. Lymphocytes and macrophages induct a proinflammatory cytokine milieu that leads to kidney inflammation. Accumulating pieces of evidence from the field of gender bias, dietary habit, alcohol, smoking and antibiotic consumption were closely related to dysbiosis of gut microbiota in SLE. However, little is known about the causes of gut microbiota dysbiosis and the potential pathway that leads to lupus nephritis (LN) flare. In this review, we will bring into deeper insight for the potential link of gut microbiota on immune system with a particular focus on renal inflammation. Moreover, we also discuss the potential novel therapies that regulate gut composition to improve or complement the current treatment of LN.
Elucidation of DNA-Eltrombopag Binding: Electrochemical, Spectroscopic and Molecular Docking Techniques
Authors: Cheraghi Somaye , Şenel Pelin , Dogan Topal Burcu , Agar Soykan , Majidian Mahsa , Yurtsever Mine , Bellur Atici Esen , Gölcü Ayşegül , Ozkan Sibel
Published: February 2023

Eltrombopag is a powerful adjuvant anticancer drug used in treating MS (myelodysplastic syndrome) and AML (acute myeloid leukemia) diseases. In this study, the interaction mechanism between eltrombopag and DNA was studied by voltammetry, spectroscopic techniques, and viscosity measurements. We developed a DNA-based biosensor and nano-biosensor using reduced graphene oxide-modified glassy carbon electrode to detect DNA-eltrombopag binding. The reduction of desoxyguanosine (dGuo) and desoxyadenosine (dAdo) oxidation signals in the presence of the drug demonstrated that a strong interaction could be established between the eltrombopag and dsDNA. The eltrombopag-DNA interaction was further investigated by UV absorption and fluorescence emission spectroscopy to gain more quantitative insight on binding. Viscosity measurements were utilized to characterize the binding mode of the drug. To shed light on the noncovalent interactions and binding mechanism of eltrombopag molecular docking and molecular dynamics (MD), simulations were performed. Through simultaneously carried out experimental and in silico studies, it was established that the eltrombopag binds onto the DNA via intercalation.
Development of a Fluorescein-Based Probe with an “Off–On” Mechanism for Selective Detection of Copper (II) Ions and Its Application in Imaging of Living Cells
Authors: Bai Yinjuan , Zhang Hongpeng , Yang Bingqin , Leng Xin
Published: February 2023

Copper is a common metallic element that plays an extremely essential role in the physiological activities of living organisms. The slightest change in copper levels in the human body can trigger various diseases. Therefore, it is important to accurately and efficiently monitor copper ion levels in the human body. Recent studies have shown that fluorescent probes have obvious advantages in bioimaging and Cu2+ detection. Therefore, a novel Cu2+ probe (N2) was designed and synthesized from fluorescein, hydrazine hydrate and 5-p-nitrophenylfurfural that is sensitive to and can detect Cu2+ within 100 s. The response mechanism of the N2 probe to Cu2+ was studied by several methods such as Job’s plots and MS analysis, which showed that the Cu2+ and the N2 probe were coordinated in a complexation ratio of 1:1. In addition, compared with other cations investigated in this study, the N2 probe showed excellent selectivity and sensitivity to Cu2+, exhibiting distinct fluorescence absorption at 525 nm. Furthermore, in the equivalent range of 0.1–1.5, there is a good linear relationship between Cu2+ concentration and fluorescence intensity, and the detection limit is 0.10 μM. It is worth mentioning that the reversible reaction between the N2 probe and Cu2+, as well as the good biocompatibility shown by the probe in bioimaging, make it a promising candidate for Cu2+ biosensor applications.
The Spatial Pattern and Mechanism of Thermal Environment in Urban Blocks from the Perspective of Green Space Fractal
Authors: Gong Yilu , Li Xueming , Liu He , Li Yu
Published: February 2023

Land resources in cities are limited, and the cost of green space construction is high. Compared with increasing the amount of green space, maximizing the cooling effect of limited green space has important theoretical and practical significance. Green fractal is a new innovative branch of urban fractal that uses a fractal index to quantify the green space structural index in studying the thermal environmental effect. Multi-source data, such as high-resolution remote sensing images, were used, and spatial regression models and inconsistency indices were applied to explore the spatial pattern of the urban thermal environment at the block scale, and the mechanism of green space fractal characteristics in terms of correlation and spatial heterogeneity, to assess the quality of green space development. This study shows the following: (1) In 2019, the land surface temperature in Dalian formed a spatial distribution structure of “high in the central region and low in the surrounding region” at the block scale, and the fractal indices of different green spaces show the spatial distribution structure of “dual-core” and “multi-core” spaces. (2) The driving direction and force of the fractal index of green space on the spatial pattern of land surface temperature differs. The influence of the green space structure index (grid and boundary dimensions) is greater than that of the quantity index (area and circumference), and the influence of the grid dimension is the most significant. (3) The spatial heterogeneity between the fractal index of block-scale green space and land surface temperature in Dalian is significant, showing a centralized and contiguous spatial pattern, with a trapezoidal structure decreasing from north to south. (4) The spatial adaptation between the fractal and thermal environments of green spaces can be evaluated using the inconsistency index. The development quality of green space can be divided into three types: advanced, relative coordination, and lagged green spaces. Finally, this study proposes specific suggestions for the development of block-scale green spaces and thermal environment management in Dalian City.
Tax Policies for Housing Energy Efficiency in Italy: A Risk Analysis Model for Energy Service Companies
Authors: Macchiaroli Maria , Dolores Luigi , De Mare Gianluigi , Nicodemo Luigi
Published: February 2023

The Superbonus is an Italian tax relief policy aimed at encouraging residential buildings’ energy and seismic efficiency. Only the energy part of the legislation is analyzed here. The tax deductions of the Superbonus exceed the nominal value of the project, making the interventions convenient even for economically disadvantaged citizens and small construction companies. However, the measure has only found wide diffusion in single-family housing, while it proceeds more slowly for multi-family buildings, where procedural complexities greatly amplify the risk of the financial failure of projects. The purpose of the paper is to analyze how urban planning and technical and administrative problems affect the Return on Investment (ROI) when the Superbonus is applied to multi-unit buildings. Therefore, a financial risk analysis is conducted from the perspective of an ordinary Energy Service Company (ESCo), which assumes the burden of carrying out energy efficiency measures. The property considered has all the requirements of an ordinary multi-family building for which the Superbonus is generally used. The works considered are also those carried out most frequently. The study shows that only three out of five energy interventions are financially sustainable. This result is in line with the data provided by the Italian Revenue Agency.
Is Segmental Ureterectomy Associated with Inferior Survival for Localized Upper-Tract Urothelial Carcinoma of the Ureter Compared to Radical Nephroureterectomy?
Authors: Paciotti Marco , Alkhatib Khalid Y. , Nguyen David-Dan , Yim Kendrick , Lipsitz Stuart R. , Mossanen Matthew , Casale Paolo , Pierorazio Phillip M. , Kibel Adam S. , Trinh Quoc-Dien , Buffi Nicoló Maria , Lughezzani Giovanni , Cole Alexander P.
Published: February 2023

Segmental ureterectomy (SU) is an alternative to radical nephroureterectomy (RNU) in the treatment of upper-tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) of the ureter. SU generally preserves renal function, at the expense of less intensive cancer control. We aim to assess whether SU is associated with inferior survival compared to RNU. Using the National Cancer Database (NCDB), we identified patients diagnosed with localized UTUC of the ureter between 2004–2015. We used a propensity-score-overlap-weighted (PSOW) multivariable survival model to compare survival following SU vs. RNU. PSOW-adjusted Kaplan–Meier curves were generated and we performed a non-inferiority test of overall survival. A population of 13,061 individuals with UTUC of the ureter receiving either SU or RNU was identified; of these, 9016 underwent RNU and 4045 SU. Factors associated with decreased likelihood of receiving SU were female gender (OR, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.75–0.88; p < 0.001), advanced clinical T stage (cT4) (OR, 0.51; 95% CI, 0.30–0.88; p = 0.015), and high-grade tumor (OR, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.67–0.86; p < 0.001). Age greater than 79 years was associated with increased probability of undergoing SU (OR, 1.18; 95% CI, 1.00–1.38; p = 0.047). There was no statistically significant difference in OS between SU and RNU (HR, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.93–1.04; p = 0.538). SU was not inferior to RNU in PSOW-adjusted Cox regression analysis (p < 0.001 for non-inferiority). In weighted cohorts of individuals with UTUC of the ureter, the use of SU was not associated with inferior survival compared to RNU. Urologists should continue to utilize SU in appropriately selected patients.
Downregulation of Dystrophin Expression Occurs across Diverse Tumors, Correlates with the Age of Onset, Staging and Reduced Survival of Patients
Authors: Alnassar Nancy , Borczyk Malgorzata , Tsagkogeorga Georgia , Korostynski Michal , Han Namshik , Górecki Dariusz C.
Published: February 2023

Altered dystrophin expression was found in some tumors and recent studies identified a developmental onset of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). Given that embryogenesis and carcinogenesis share many mechanisms, we analyzed a broad spectrum of tumors to establish whether dystrophin alteration evokes related outcomes. Transcriptomic, proteomic, and mutation datasets from fifty tumor tissues and matching controls (10,894 samples) and 140 corresponding tumor cell lines were analyzed. Interestingly, dystrophin transcripts and protein expression were found widespread across healthy tissues and at housekeeping gene levels. In 80% of tumors, DMD expression was reduced due to transcriptional downregulation and not somatic mutations. The full-length transcript encoding Dp427 was decreased in 68% of tumors, while Dp71 variants showed variability of expression. Notably, low expression of dystrophins was associated with a more advanced stage, older age of onset, and reduced survival across different tumors. Hierarchical clustering analysis of DMD transcripts distinguished malignant from control tissues. Transcriptomes of primary tumors and tumor cell lines with low DMD expression showed enrichment of specific pathways in the differentially expressed genes. Pathways consistently identified: ECM-receptor interaction, calcium signaling, and PI3K-Akt are also altered in DMD muscle. Therefore, the importance of this largest known gene extends beyond its roles identified in DMD, and certainly into oncology.
Peritumoral ADC Values Correlate with the MGMT Methylation Status in Patients with Glioblastoma
Authors: Ladenhauf Valentin Karl , Galijasevic Malik , Kerschbaumer Johannes , Freyschlag Christian Franz , Nowosielski Martha , Birkl-Toeglhofer Anna Maria , Haybaeck Johannes , Gizewski Elke Ruth , Mangesius Stephanie , Grams Astrid Ellen
Published: February 2023

Different results have been reported concerning the relationship of the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values and the status of methylation as the promoter gene for the enzyme methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) in patients with glioblastomas (GBs). The aim of this study was to investigate if there were correlations between the ADC values of the enhancing tumor and peritumoral areas of GBs and the MGMT methylation status. In this retrospective study, we included 42 patients with newly diagnosed unilocular GB with one MRI study prior to any treatment and histopathological data. After co-registration of ADC maps with T1-weighted sequences after contrast administration and dynamic susceptibility contrast (DSC) perfusion, we manually selected one region-of-interest (ROI) in the enhancing and perfused tumor and one ROI in the peritumoral white matter. Both ROIs were mirrored in the healthy hemisphere for normalization. In the peritumoral white matter, absolute and normalized ADC values were significantly higher in patients with MGMT-unmethylated tumors, as compared to patients with MGMT-methylated tumors (absolute values p = 0.002, normalized p = 0.0007). There were no significant differences in the enhancing tumor parts. The ADC values in the peritumoral region correlated with MGMT methylation status, confirmed by normalized ADC values. In contrast to other studies, we could not find a correlation between the ADC values or the normalized ADC values and the MGMT methylation status in the enhancing tumor parts.
Efficient Combination of Carbon Quantum Dots and BiVO4 for Significantly Enhanced Photocatalytic Activities
Authors: Hu Chenyan , Chen Qingdi , Tian Maosheng , Wang Weiwen , Yu Junxia , Chen Lianguo
Published: February 2023

The development of highly efficient and stable photocatalysts is of critical importance for the removal of environmental pollutants, such as paraben preservatives. In this work, carbon quantum dots (CQDs) were used to modify bismuth vanadate (BiVO4) through a hydrothermal reaction. Regarding the as-formed CQDs/BiVO4 composite, TEM, XPS, and Raman spectra analysis demonstrated the strong interaction between CQDs and BiVO4, possibly leading to the elevated energy level of the composite. As compared to pristine BiVO4, CQDs/BiVO4 showed an increase in light harvesting, and significantly enhanced visible-light activities in degrading the typical paraben pollutant—benzyl paraben (BzP)—where the maximum 85.4% of BzP was degraded in 150 min. After four cycle reactions, the optimum sample 0.6%CQDs/BiVO4 still degraded 78.2% of BzP, indicating the good stability and reusability of the composite. The notably higher photocurrent and smaller arc in Nyquist plot were measured by CQDs/BiVO4, unveiling the improved photocharge separation and lowered interfacial charge transfer resistance by CQDs modification. Meanwhile, due to the promoted energy level, CQDs/BiVO4 practically produced •O2− species and thereby contributed to the BzP degradation, while they had no ability to produce •OH. This was contrary to the BiVO4 system, where •OH and h+ played the dominant roles.
Photocatalytic Efficiency of TiO2/Fe2O3 and TiO2/WO3 Nanocomposites
Authors: Giuffrida Federico , Calcagno Lucia , Pezzotti Escobar Gianni , Zimbone Massimo
Published: February 2023

The photocatalytic proprieties of TiO2/FeO3 and TiO2/WO3 nanocomposites have been investigated using methylene blue as a pollutant. We propose a non-conventional approach for material preparation, i.e., the Doctor Blade technique, which is an easy and inexpensive method for coating materials. Several drawbacks related to the use of powders can be alleviated by using solid substrates, and this deposition method allows us to take advantage of the high surface area of nanoparticles, avoiding dispersion in the solution. The possibility of coating a material with a photoactive molecule with an easy and inexpensive method leads to the use of photocatalysis in the real world. The structural, optical, and textural characterizations of these materials were carried out using UV-vis. Diffuse Reflectance Spectroscopy (DRS) was used to calculate the energy band gap with the Kubelka-Munk method, and N2 absorption-desorption measurements were used to study the exposed surface area (SBET). The photocatalytic activity was evaluated in nanocomposites containing 0.1/0.2/0.3/0.5 wt.% of Fe2O3 or WO3 or both Fe2O3 and WO3. An enhancement of about 60% was achieved by adding 0.2% wt. of WO3 after 2 h of exposure to UV light. The TiO2@Fe2O3 and TiO2@WO3/Fe2O3 mixtures showed the same behavior as the TiO2@WO3 mixture. Therefore, the photoactivity of these photocatalysts is not related to the oxide itself. These solid results are due to the energy band structure of the materials. In fact, there is an important band matching among TiO2, WO3, and Fe2O3, which gives these nanocomposites a substantial improvement in photodegradation. The pH evaluated was neutral pH both at the beginning and at the end of the experiment, which is consistent with the well-known photodegradation pathway of methylene blue.
Mapping Immune Correlates and Surfaceome Genes in BRAF Mutated Colorectal Cancers
Authors: Morafraile Esther Cabañas , Saiz-Ladera Cristina , Nieto-Jiménez Cristina , Győrffy Balázs , Nagy Adam , Velasco Guillermo , Pérez-Segura Pedro , Ocaña Alberto
Published: February 2023

Despite the impressive results obtained with immunotherapy in several cancer types, a significant fraction of patients remains unresponsive to these treatments. In colorectal cancer (CRC), B-RafV600 mutations have been identified in 8–15% of the patients. In this work we interrogated a public dataset to explore the surfaceome of these tumors and found that several genes, such as GP2, CLDN18, AQP5, TM4SF4, NTSR1, VNN1, and CD109, were upregulated. By performing gene set enrichment analysis, we also identified a striking upregulation of genes (CD74, LAG3, HLA-DQB1, HLA-DRB5, HLA-DMA, HLA-DMB, HLA-DPB1, HLA-DRA, HLA-DOA, FCGR2B, HLA-DQA1, HLA-DRB1, and HLA-DPA1) associated with antigen processing and presentation via MHC class II. Likewise, we found a strong correlation between PD1 and PD(L)1 expression and the presence of genes encoding for proteins involved in antigen presentation such as CD74, HLA-DPA1, and LAG3. Furthermore, a similar association was observed for the presence of dendritic cells and macrophages. Finally, a low but positive relationship was observed between tumor mutational burden and neoantigen load. Our findings support the idea that a therapeutic strategy based on the targeting of PD(L)1 together with other receptors also involved in immuno-modulation, such as LAG3, could help to improve current treatments against BRAF-mutated CRC tumors.
A Sequalae of Lineage Divergence in Staphylococcus aureus from Community-Acquired Patterns in Youth to Hospital-Associated Profiles in Seniors Implied Age-Specific Host-Selection from a Common Ancestor
Authors: Said Kamaleldin B. , AlGhasab Naif Saad , Alharbi Mohammed S. M. , Alsolami Ahmed , Bashir Abdelhafiz I. , Saleem Mohd , Syed Khaja Azharuddin Sajid , Aldakheel Dakheel F. , Rakha Ehab , Alshamri Jabar A. , Al-hazimi Awdah , Alrodhaiman Adel J. , Taha Taha E. , Alanazi Hamad H. ,   Ha’il COM Research Unit Group
Published: February 2023

The rapidly changing epidemiology of Staphylococcus aureus and evolution of strains with enhanced virulence is a significant issue in global healthcare. Hospital-associated methicillin-resistant S. aureus (HA-MRSA) lineages are being completely replaced by community-associated S. aureus (CA-MRSA) in many regions. Surveillance programs tracing the reservoirs and sources of infections are needed. Using molecular diagnostics, antibiograms, and patient demographics, we have examined the distributions of S. aureus in Ha’il hospitals. Out of 274 S. aureus isolates recovered from clinical specimens, 181 (66%, n = 181) were MRSA, some with HA-MRSA patterns across 26 antimicrobials with almost full resistances to all beta-lactams, while the majority were highly susceptible to all non-beta-lactams, indicating the CA-MRSA type. The rest of isolates (34%, n = 93) were methicillin-susceptible, penicillin-resistant MSSA lineages (90%). The MRSA in men was over 56% among total MRSA (n = 181) isolates and 37% of overall isolates (n = 102 of 274) compared to MSSA in total isolates (17.5%, n = 48), respectively. However, these were 28.4% (n = 78) and 12.4% (n = 34) for MRSA and MSSA infections in women, respectively. MRSA rates per age groups of 0–20, 21–50, and >50 years of age were 15% (n = 42), 17% (n = 48), and 32% (n = 89), respectively. However, MSSA in the same age groups were 13% (n = 35), 9% (n = 25), and 8% (n = 22). Interestingly, MRSA increased proportional to age, while MSSA concomitantly decreased, implying dominance of the latter ancestors early in life and then gradual replacement by MRSA. The dominance and seriousness of MRSA despite enormous efforts in place is potentially for the increased use of beta-lactams known to enhance virulence. The Intriguing prevalence of the CA-MRSA patterns in young otherwise healthy individuals replaced by MRSA later in seniors and the dominance of penicillin-resistant MSSA phenotypes imply three types of host- and age-specific evolutionary lineages. Thus, the decreasing MSSA trend by age with concomitant increase and sub-clonal differentiation into HA-MRSA in seniors and CA-MRSA in young and otherwise healthy patients strongly support the notion of subclinal emergences from a resident penicillin-resistant MSSA ancestor. Future vertical studies should focus on the surveillance of invasive CA-MRSA rates and phenotypes.
A Non-Conventional Review on Multi-Modality-Based Medical Image Fusion
Authors: Diwakar Manoj , Singh Prabhishek , Ravi Vinayakumar , Maurya Ankur
Published: February 2023

Today, medical images play a crucial role in obtaining relevant medical information for clinical purposes. However, the quality of medical images must be analyzed and improved. Various factors affect the quality of medical images at the time of medical image reconstruction. To obtain the most clinically relevant information, multi-modality-based image fusion is beneficial. Nevertheless, numerous multi-modality-based image fusion techniques are present in the literature. Each method has its assumptions, merits, and barriers. This paper critically analyses some sizable non-conventional work within multi-modality-based image fusion. Often, researchers seek help in apprehending multi-modality-based image fusion and choosing an appropriate multi-modality-based image fusion approach; this is unique to their cause. Hence, this paper briefly introduces multi-modality-based image fusion and non-conventional methods of multi-modality-based image fusion. This paper also signifies the merits and downsides of multi-modality-based image fusion.
An m6A-Driven Prognostic Marker Panel for Renal Cell Carcinoma Based on the First Transcriptome-Wide m6A-seq
Authors: Waldbillig Frank , Bormann Felix , Neuberger Manuel , Ellinger Jörg , Erben Philipp , Kriegmair Maximilian C. , Michel Maurice Stephan , Nuhn Philipp , Nientiedt Malin
Published: February 2023

To date, only a single transcriptome-wide m6A sequencing study of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) has been reported, with no validation so far. Herein, by TCGA analysis of the KIRC cohort (n = 530 ccRCC; n = 72 normal), an external expression validation of 35 preidentified m6A targets was performed. Further in-depth expression stratification enabled assessment of m6A-driven key targets. Overall survival (OS) analysis and gene set enrichment analyses (GSEA) were conducted to assess their clinical and functional impact on ccRCC. In the hyper-up cluster significant upregulation was confirmed for NDUFA4L2, NXPH4, SAA1, and PLOD2 (40%) and in the hypo-up cluster for FCHSD1 (10%). Significant downregulation was observed for UMOD, ANK3, and CNTFR (27.3%) in the hypo-down cluster and for CHDH (25%) in the hyper-down cluster. In-depth expression stratification showed consistent dysregulation in ccRCC only for 11.67%: NDUFA4L2, NXPH4, and UMOD (NNU-panel). Patients with strong NNU panel dysregulation had significantly poorer OS (p = 0.0075). GSEA identified 13 associated and significantly upregulated gene sets (all p-values < 0.5; FDR < 0.25). External validation of the only available m6A sequencing in ccRCC consistently reduced dysregulated m6A-driven targets on the NNU panel with highly significant effects on OS. Epitranscriptomics are a promising target for developing novel therapies and for identifying prognostic markers for daily clinical practice.
Leveraging Vision Attention Transformers for Detection of Artificially Synthesized Dermoscopic Lesion Deepfakes Using Derm-CGAN
Authors: Sharafudeen Misaj , J. Andrew , Chandra S. S. Vinod
Published: February 2023

Synthesized multimedia is an open concern that has received much too little attention in the scientific community. In recent years, generative models have been utilized in maneuvering deepfakes in medical imaging modalities. We investigate the synthesized generation and detection of dermoscopic skin lesion images by leveraging the conceptual aspects of Conditional Generative Adversarial Networks and state-of-the-art Vision Transformers (ViT). The Derm-CGAN is architectured for the realistic generation of six different dermoscopic skin lesions. Analysis of the similarity between real and synthesized fakes revealed a high correlation. Further, several ViT variations were investigated to distinguish between actual and fake lesions. The best-performing model achieved an accuracy of 97.18% which has over 7% marginal gain over the second best-performing network. The trade-off of the proposed model compared to other networks, as well as a benchmark face dataset, was critically analyzed in terms of computational complexity. This technology is capable of harming laymen through medical misdiagnosis or insurance scams. Further research in this domain would be able to assist physicians and the general public in countering and resisting deepfake threats.
Editorial on Special Issue “Artificial Intelligence in Pathological Image Analysis”
Authors: Tsuneki Masayuki
Published: February 2023

The artificial intelligence (AI), especially deep learning models, is highly compatible with medical images and natural language processing and is expected to be applied to pathological image analysis and other medical fields [...]
Artificial Intelligence-Based Cervical Cancer Screening on Images Taken during Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid: A Systematic Review
Authors: Viñals Roser , Jonnalagedda Magali , Petignat Patrick , Thiran Jean-Philippe , Vassilakos Pierre
Published: February 2023

Visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) is one of the methods recommended by the World Health Organization for cervical cancer screening. VIA is simple and low-cost; it, however, presents high subjectivity. We conducted a systematic literature search in PubMed, Google Scholar and Scopus to identify automated algorithms for classifying images taken during VIA as negative (healthy/benign) or precancerous/cancerous. Of the 2608 studies identified, 11 met the inclusion criteria. The algorithm with the highest accuracy in each study was selected, and some of its key features were analyzed. Data analysis and comparison between the algorithms were conducted, in terms of sensitivity and specificity, ranging from 0.22 to 0.93 and 0.67 to 0.95, respectively. The quality and risk of each study were assessed following the QUADAS-2 guidelines. Artificial intelligence-based cervical cancer screening algorithms have the potential to become a key tool for supporting cervical cancer screening, especially in settings where there is a lack of healthcare infrastructure and trained personnel. The presented studies, however, assess their algorithms using small datasets of highly selected images, not reflecting whole screened populations. Large-scale testing in real conditions is required to assess the feasibility of integrating those algorithms in clinical settings.
Synthesis and Characterization of Zirconia–Silica PMMA Nanocomposite for Endodontic Implants
Authors: Widodo Puji , Mulyawan Wawan , Djustiana Nina , Joni I. Made
Published: February 2023

This study aimed to enhance the mechanical properties of PMMA composites by introducing various types of fillers, including ZrO2, SiO2, and a mixture of ZrO2-SiO2 nanoparticles, which were prepared as prototypes for an endodontic implant. The ZrO2, SiO2, and mixed ZrO2-SiO2 nanoparticles were synthesized using the sol–gel method and the precursors Tetraethyl Orthosilicate, Zirconium Oxychloride, and a mixture of both precursors, respectively. Before polymerization, the as-synthesized powders were subjected to the bead milling process to obtain a well-dispersed suspension. Two scenarios for the fillers were implemented in the preparation of the PMMA composite: a mixture of ZrO2/SiO2 and ZrO2-SiO2 mixed with two different types of silane: (3-Mercaptopropyl) trimethoxysilane (MPTS) and 3-(Trimethoxysilyl) Propyl Methacrylate (TMSPMA). The observation of the characteristics of all of the investigated fillers included the use of a particle-size analyzer (PSA), a Zeta-potential analyzer, FTIR, XRF, XRD, and SEM. The mechanical properties of the MMA composites, as prepared under various scenarios, were observed in terms of their flexural strength, diametrical tensile strength (DTS), and modulus of elasticity (ME). These levels of performance were compared with a PMMA-only polymer. Each sample was measured five times for flexural strength, DTS, and ME. The results showed that the best PMMA composite was SiO2/ZrO2/TMSPMA, as revealed by measurements of the flexural strength, DTS, and ME corresponding to 152.7 ± 13.0 MPa, 51.2 ± 0.6 MPa, and 9272.8 ± 2481.4 MPa, which are close to the mechanical properties of dentin. The viability of these PMMA composites, as measured up to day 7, was 93.61%, indicating that they are nontoxic biomaterials. Therefore, it was concluded that the PMMA composite created with SiO2/ZrO2/TMSPMA can be considered to be an acceptable endodontic implant.
Information Theoretic Methods for Future Communication Systems
Authors: Günlü Onur , Schaefer Rafael F. , Boche Holger , Poor H. Vincent
Published: February 2023

It is anticipated that future communication systems will involve the use of new technologies, requiring high-speed computations using large amounts of data, in order to take advantage of data-driven methods for improving services and providing reliability and other benefits [...]
Cryptanalysis of an Image Encryption Algorithm Based on Two-Dimensional Hyperchaotic Map
Authors: Jiang Qinmao , Yu Simin , Wang Qianxue
Published: February 2023

This paper analyzes the security of an image encryption algorithm based on a two-dimensional hyperchaotic map. This encryption algorithm generated chaotic sequences through a combination of two one-dimensional chaotic maps and used them as the permutation and diffusion key. Then, the image was encrypted by using the structure of row–column permutation, forward-diffusion, and backward-diffusion. The proposer claimed that the above algorithm was secure. However, it was found through cryptanalysis that the algorithm cannot withstand the chosen plaintext attack. Although the forward-diffusion and backward-diffusion of the original algorithm use two different diffusion keys and there is a ciphertext feedback mechanism, the analysis of the diffusion by iterative optimization showed that it can be equivalent to global diffusion. In addition, the generation of chaotic sequences in the encryption process is independent of the plaintext image, so the equivalent diffusion and permutation key stream can be obtained by adjusting the individual pixel values of the chosen plaintexts. Aiming at the security loopholes in the encryption algorithm, the theoretical and experimental results are presented to support the efficiency of the proposed attack and suggestions for improvement are given. Finally, compared with the performance analysis of the existing cracking algorithm, our cryptanalysis greatly improved the cracking efficiency without increasing the complexity of the data.
Detecting Encrypted and Unencrypted Network Data Using Entropy Analysis and Confidence Intervals
Authors: Ticleanu Oana-Adriana , Popa Teodora , Hunyadi Daniel Ioan , Constantinescu Nicolae
Published: February 2023

The detection of clear and encrypted data that are transported through computer networks is of particular importance both for protecting the data and the users to whom they belong and to whom they are intended, as well as the networks through which they are transmitted. The proposed method consists of an algorithm that classifies the data it receives by testing the belongingness of their standard deviation values to established confidence intervals. Following the evaluation of the algorithm, an accuracy of 94.73% was obtained and it appears that the results can be used with certainty in subsequent analyses of the data detection.
Psychosexual Education Interventions for Autistic Youth and Adults—A Systematic Review
Authors: Ragaglia Beatrice , Caputi Marcella , Bulgarelli Daniela
Published: February 2023

(1) Background: The literature shows a general lack of sexual knowledge and appropriate sexual health education in persons with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Moreover, the existing interventions mainly target the neurotypical population, without addressing the specific needs of individuals with ASD. (2) Aims: The current systematic review aimed at analyzing the literature encompassing psycho-educational interventions on sexuality addressed exclusively to people with ASD, in order to report the good practices and to describe the effectiveness of the existing programs. (3) Methods: The systematic review followed the PRISMA-P method. The literature search was conducted in June 2022, examining PsycInfo, PsycArticle, PubMed, and Education Source. The search strategy generated 550 articles, of which 22 duplicates were removed, 510 papers were excluded for not matching the criteria, and 18 articles were finally included. (4) Results: Ten papers presented good practices and eight focused on intervention validation. The analysis showed that the good practices were essentially applied in the intervention studies. No intervention proved to be successful both in increasing psychosexual knowledge and in promoting appropriate sexual behaviors; thus, further research is needed. (5) Conclusions: The current review allows for critical reflection on the need for validated sexuality interventions.
A Predictive Current Control Strategy for a Medium-Voltage Open-End Winding Machine Drive
Authors: Cataldo Patricio , Jara Werner , Riedemann Javier , Pesce Cristian , Andrade Iván , Pena Rubén
Published: February 2023

This paper presents a medium-voltage drive based on an open-end winding induction machine supplied by a multilevel power converter topology. The power converter consists of cascaded two-level three-phase voltage source inverters (VSI) connected to each side of the machine windings and each VSI is fed by an isolated DC supply. The topology has been previously reported in the literature as a sinusoidal pulse-width modulation operating in an open loop. In this work, a closed-loop model predictive control (MPC) strategy is proposed. MPC offers a much simpler method to control the power switches of the inverter compared to complex modulation strategies that are typically used in multilevel converters. Moreover, the advantage of reducing the common-mode voltage offered by the open-end winding configuration is fully exploited in this work. Simulation results are presented to validate the performance of the proposed topology and control method.
Passive Backstepping Control of Dual Active Bridge Converter in Modular Three-Port DC Converter
Authors: Li Xin , Fang Xiaodong
Published: February 2023

A dual active bridge (DAB) converter in a modular three-port DC converter is the key equipment to connect distributed energy and energy storage units and realize its efficient and large-scale utilization. When a DAB converter with traditional control is disturbed by the input voltage of distributed energy sources, some problems occur, such as large fluctuation of load voltage and slow dynamic response. In order to address such problems, this paper firstly starts with the single-phase shift control of the DAB converter, establishes the dynamic mathematical model of the DAB converter according to the nonlinear characteristics of the converter, transforms it into the passive form of Euler–Lagrange (E-L) model and designs the passive controller based on the analysis of the passive nature and stability of the converter, in order to improve the energy dissipation rate and ensure the global stability of the system. Secondly, in conjunction with the backstepping control, a passive backstepping controller is designed with the goal of shifting the comparison to eliminate errors caused by input disturbances and achieve fast-tracking of the reference voltage. Finally, a DAB simulation model based on passive backstepping control is established in Matlab/Simulink. By selecting the appropriate injection damping value, it is compared with traditional PI control and passivity-based control strategy, and the effectiveness of forward and reverse power transmission modes of the DAB converter under passive backstepping control is verified. The results show that the DAB converter with passive backstepping control has better dynamic performance and stronger robustness after sudden changes in input voltage.
A Novel Tuning Fork-Shaped Tri-Band Planar Antenna for Wireless Applications
Authors: Li Qiwei , Fang Jinyong , Ding Jun , Cao Wen , Sun Jing , Guo Chenjiang , Liu Tao
Published: February 2023

A novel tuning fork-shaped tri-band planar antenna (NTTPA) for the LTE 2.3/3.8-GHz band, WLAN 2.4/5.2/5.8-GHz band, and WiMax 2.5/3.5/5.5-GHz band is presented in this letter. By introducing an asymmetrical turning fork-shaped patch and an inverted L-shaped patch, three notched bands can be generated to form a triple-band operation. The antenna is fabricated on an FR4 board and excited by an SMA connector using a microstrip line. The antenna structure is simple and has a compact size of 45 mm × 40 mm. The measured operating frequency covers 2.2–2.63, 2.73–3.8, and 5.13–6.3 GHz, and the percentage bandwidth is close to 53.3% (S11 < −9.8 dB from 2.2 to 3.8 GHz) and 20.5% (S11 < −10 dB from 5.13 to 6.3 GHz). The calculated and experimental results suggest that the proposed antenna is one of the best candidates for wireless communication systems in terms of multi operating bands, broad percentage bandwidth (BW), compactness, stable radiation pattern, easy processing, and low cost.
Directions of Development of Diagnostic Methods of Vacuum Medium-Voltage Switchgear
Authors: Węgierek Paweł , Kostyła Damian , Lech Michał
Published: February 2023

The development of power grid infrastructure and increasingly stringent environmental regulations have intensified work, carried out by researchers and electrical equipment manufacturers, to develop innovative gas-insulated, environmentally neutral devices. The emergence of new designs of circuit breakers and disconnectors, in which the resulting electric arc is extinguished in a vacuum environment, requires the development of appropriate techniques for diagnosing the chambers responsible for the dielectric parameters of the device. The following article presents an overview of the directions of development of diagnostic methods for medium-voltage vacuum switching equipment, which can potentially be used to develop a real-time pressure monitoring system that can be applied to vacuum switching equipment used in electrical infrastructure.
Design and Implementation of Node-Red Based Open-Source SCADA Architecture for a Hybrid Power System
Authors: Omidi Sayed Arash , Baig Mirza Jabbar Aziz , Iqbal Mohammad Tariq
Published: February 2023

At present, hybrid renewable power systems (HRPS) are considered reliable combinations for power generation under various conditions. The challenge facing researchers and engineers today is designing and implementing a reliable, efficient, and applicable SCADA system for adequate monitoring and control of hybrid power systems. In order to analyze, observe, and control the essential parameters of an HRPS, a SCADA system is crucial. As part of this study, a low-cost, low-power, open-source SCADA (Supervisory, Control, and Data Acquisition) system for hybrid renewable energy systems is presented. The system utilizes two remote terminal units (RTUs), an Arduino Mega2560 and a Wio terminal, to communicate with all actuators and measure vital system characteristics such as voltage, current, and power. Using the Firmata protocol, a laptop serves as the main terminal unit (MTU) to communicate with the Arduino. In addition to being the system’s central component, Node-Red is utilized for processing, analyzing, storing, and displaying data. In contrast, a Wio terminal is used to display the values of all sensors in real-time on its LCD screen. As a whole, the proposed SCADA system is designed to keep the HRPS running smoothly and safely by displaying vital parameters, reporting any significant faults, and controlling the generator so that the batteries can be charged and discharged correctly. This article presents a complete description of all algorithms, experimental setups, testing, and results.