bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effects of fermented feedstuff derived from Citri Sarcodactylis Fructus by-products on growth performance, intestinal digestive enzyme activity, nutrient utilization, meat quality, gut microbiota, and metabolites of broiler chicken
Authors: Zhou Xinhong , Zhang Huaidan , Li Shiyi , Jiang Yilong , Kang Lijuan , Deng Jicheng , Yang Chuanpeng , Zhao Xin , Zhao Jingjing , Jiang Li , Chen Xianxin
Published: July 2023

This research aimed to assess the impact of fermented Citri Sarcodactylis Fructus by-products (FCSF) on the growth performance, gut digestive enzyme activity, nutrient utilization efficiency, gut microbiota, and their metabolites in broiler chickens. A total of 1,080 male broiler chickens were allocated into four groups (T1–T4) consisting of 6 replicates per group, each containing 45 chickens. The basal diet was provided to group T1, while groups T2, T3, and T4 were supplemented with 1%, 3%, and 5% FCSF in the basal diet, respectively. The experimental period was 42 days. The findings revealed that supplementing FCSF improved the FW and ADG of broiler chickens, and led to a reduction in the F/G, ADFI, and mortality rate of broiler chickens (p < 0.05). Furthermore, supplementation with 3% and 5% FCSF improved the thigh yield, semi-eviscerated carcass yield, slaughter yield, and lipase activity in the duodenum and ileum of birds (p < 0.05). Additionally, supplementing 3% FCSF enhanced the activity of protease in the duodenum of broilers (p < 0.05). Moreover, supplementing 3% FCSF enhanced the utilization of total phosphorus, dry matter, crude protein, and crude ash in the feed by broilers (p < 0.05). Compared with the control group, supplementation of 3% and 5% FCSF reduced the serine content in broiler chicken breast meat (p < 0.05). Supplementing 1% FCSF significantly increased the C14:0, C14:1, and C20:1 content in the breast meat compared to the other experimental groups (p < 0.05). The levels of C20:4n6 and C23:0 in the breast meat of birds of FCSF supplemented groups were lower than in T1 (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the content of ∑ω-3PUFA decreased after supplementing with 3% and 5% FCSF (p < 0.05). 16SrDNA showed that supplementing 3% FCSF reduced the ACE, Chao1, and Shannon indices in the cecum of birds (p < 0.05). Supplementing 3% FCSF also decreased the abundance of the phylum Desulfobacterota and improved genera Coprobacter and Prevotella in the cecum of broiler chickens (p < 0.05). Metabolomic analysis of the gut microbiota revealed that supplementing 3% FCSF upregulated 6 metabolites and downregulated 16 metabolites (p < 0.05). Moreover, supplementing 3% FCSF downregulated 12 metabolic pathways and upregulated 3 metabolic pathways (p < 0.05). In summary our findings indicate that supplementing FCSF can improve the growth performance of broiler chickens by enhancing intestinal digestive enzyme activity, nutrient utilization, improving gut microbial diversity, and influencing the metabolism of gut microbiota.
Association of Procurement Time With Pancreas Transplant Outcomes in Brain-Dead Donors
Authors: Eerola Verner , Sallinen Ville , Lempinen Marko , Helanterä Ilkka
Published: July 2023

A brain-death-induced cytokine storm damages organs in an organ donor. However, a longer time period between declaration of brain death and organ procurement (procurement interval) is associated with improved outcomes in kidney, liver, heart, and lung transplantation. The aim of this study was to find the optimal procurement interval for pancreas transplantation. Association of procurement interval with pancreas graft outcomes was analyzed using multivariable models adjusted for variables possibly affecting procurement interval and outcomes. Altogether 10,119 pancreas transplantations were included from the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients. The median follow-up was 3.2 (IQR 1.01–6.50) years. During the first year, 832 (9.0%) grafts were lost, including 555 (6.0%) within the first 30 days. Longer procurement interval was associated with increased death-censored graft survival in a multivariable model (HR 0.944 95% CI 0.917–0.972, per 10-h increase, p < 0.001). A decreasing hazard of graft loss was observed also with 1-year, but not with 30-day graft survival. During 1-year follow-up, 953 (12.1%) patients had an acute rejection, and longer procurement interval was also associated with less acute rejections (OR 0.937 95% CI 0.900–0.976, per 10-h increase, p = 0.002) in the multivariable model. In conclusion, longer procurement interval is associated with improved long-term outcomes in pancreas transplantation.
European Society for Organ Transplantation (ESOT)-TLJ 3.0 Consensus on Histopathological Analysis of Pre-Implantation Donor Kidney Biopsy: Redefining the Role in the Process of Graft Assessment
Authors: Zaza Gianluigi , Cucchiari David , Becker Jan Ulrich , de Vries Aiko P. J. , Eccher Albino , Florquin Sandrine , Kers Jesper , Rabant Marion , Rossini Michele , Pengel Liset , Marson Lorna , Furian Lucrezia
Published: July 2023

The ESOT TLJ 3.0. consensus conference brought together leading experts in transplantation to develop evidence-based guidance on the standardization and clinical utility of pre-implantation kidney biopsy in the assessment of grafts from Expanded Criteria Donors (ECD). Seven themes were selected and underwent in-depth analysis after formulation of PICO (patient/population, intervention, comparison, outcomes) questions. After literature search, the statements for each key question were produced, rated according the GRADE approach [Quality of evidence: High (A), Moderate (B), Low (C); Strength of Recommendation: Strong (1), Weak (2)]. The statements were subsequently presented in-person at the Prague kick-off meeting, discussed and voted. After two rounds of discussion and voting, all 7 statements reached an overall agreement of 100% on the following issues: needle core/wedge/punch technique representatively [B,1], frozen/paraffin embedded section reliability [B,2], experienced/non-experienced on-call renal pathologist reproducibility/accuracy of the histological report [A,1], glomerulosclerosis/other parameters reproducibility [C,2], digital pathology/light microscopy in the measurement of histological variables [A,1], special stainings/Haematoxylin and Eosin alone comparison [A,1], glomerulosclerosis reliability versus other histological parameters to predict the graft survival, graft function, primary non-function [B,1]. This methodology has allowed to reach a full consensus among European experts on important technical topics regarding pre-implantation biopsy in the ECD graft assessment.
Animal Calling Behaviours and What This Can Tell Us about the Effects of Changing Soundscapes
Authors: Burnham Rianna
Published: July 2023

The behavioural, physiological, and energetic repercussions for wildlife that result from changes in their soundscapes are increasingly being realized. To understand the effects of changing acoustic landscapes, we first must establish the importance of the acoustic sense for species to transfer information between the environment, con- and heterospecifics, and a receiver, and the functional role of calling in behaviours such as foraging, navigation, mate attraction, and weaning. This review begins with a discussion of the use of calling and the acquisition of the vocal repertoire, before providing examples from multiple taxa on the functional applications of signals and communication. The acoustic sensory mode adds to, if not being inherent in, many critical life history stages over a range of species. The potential effects on an animal resulting from a change in its perceived soundscape and disturbance on its acoustics use is outlined. This can then be used to consider the implications of an altered acoustic niche or active space in the success and survival of an individual or species. Furthermore, we discuss briefly metrics that could be used to understand the implications of these changes, or could be used to guide mitigation action to lessen the impact.
Task Parameter Planning Algorithm for UAV Area Complete Coverage in EO Sector Scanning Mode
Authors: Jing Xianyong , Hou Manyi , Li Wei , Chen Cui , Feng Zhishu , Wang Mingwei
Published: July 2023

When Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) are used in search and rescue operations, electro-optical (EO) devices are usually used as the detection equipment, and area coverage is used as the main search method. However, the sector scanning mode of EO puts forward higher requirements for task parameter planning. First, to ensure there is no missing coverage, a method to determine the full coverage width of EO equipment in sector scanning mode is proposed. Second, the constraint of no interval missing and the model of the speed-to-high ratio constraint are established, and the constraints of other factors are addressed in the context of the problem situation. Third, a coverage efficiency index is proposed for the boustrophedon coverage of a rectangular area, and a comprehensive coverage index is established. Finally, task parameter planning algorithms are designed, based on Immune Algorithm (IA), Grey Wolf Optimization (GWO) and Variable Neighborhood Search (VNS), respectively. The simulation results showed that the designed algorithms, based on IA, GWO and VNS, can effectively solve task planning problems. In general, IA is more suitable for offline occasions, VNS is suitable for online real-time planning, and GWO has characteristics between the two. The coverage process, based on optimized parameters, meets all constraints, has higher search efficiency and does not miss areas, proving the correctness of these models and the effectiveness of the planning algorithm. The research presented in this paper provides a technical basis for efficient and fully automated target search and rescue.
A Systematic Review on the Improvement of Cd Stress Tolerance in Ramie Crop, Limitations and Future Prospective
Authors: Rasheed Adnan , Jie Hongdong , He Pengliang , Lv Xueying , Ali Basharat , Ma Yushen , Xing Hucheng , Almari Saad , Elnour Rehab O. , Hassan Muhammad Umair , Gillani Syed Faheem Anjum , Jie Yucheng
Published: July 2023

Cadmium (Cd) is a non-essential, highly phytotoxic metal and damages ramie plant growth and development even at low concentrations. Ramie is one of the most significant crops in China, with excellent fiber quality and immense industrial importance. Planting Cd-tolerant ramie cultivars can prevent yield loss on contaminated soil. Previously, significant efforts have been made to develop Cd tolerance in ramie. However, the Cd tolerance mechanism is still not fully understood; hence, breeding industrial crops is critical to tackling the ongoing challenges. Cd tolerance is a complex genetic mechanism requiring high-level molecular studies to clarify the genes network. Genetic studies have identified several Cd-tolerant genes in ramie, which led to the development of several ramie cultivars suitable to grow on toxic soils; however, due to the continuous rise in Cd toxicity, potent molecular tools are critical in modern-day breeding programs. Genetic engineering, and transcriptome analysis have been used to develop abiotic stress tolerance in ramie, but QTL mapping and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) are rarely studied. However, studies are still limited in addressing this issue. This review critically elaborated on using QTL mapping, transcriptomes, transcription factors, CRISPR/Cas9, and genetic engineering to enhance Cd tolerance in ramie. These genes/QTL should be transferred or edited into sensitive cultivars using genetic engineering or CRISPR/Cas9. CRISPR/Cas9 is highly recommended because it provides targeted gene editing in ramie, its use is limited and can address the research gaps, and it would revolutionize the field of agriculture. Limitations, gaps, and future potential are briefly discussed. This review paper presents new clues to help future researchers comprehensively understand Cd tolerance in ramie and develop tolerant cultivars for industrial purposes.
Using Imaging Techniques to Analyze the Microstructure of Asphalt Concrete Mixtures: Literature Review
Authors: Alawneh Mai , Soliman Haithem
Published: July 2023

The performance of asphalt concrete (AC) mixtures depends highly on their internal structure and the interaction of the mixture components under different loading conditions. Imaging techniques provide effective tools that can assess the microstructure and failure mechanisms of materials. Imaging techniques have been used in recent research studies to examine and analyze the evolution of the internal structure of AC mixtures resulting from traffic and environmental loading. Increasing knowledge of the microstructural properties and mechanical behaviour of AC mixtures could improve the design process and enable researchers to develop more accurate prediction models for the long-term performance of pavements. This paper reviews three imaging techniques which were used to characterize the microstructure of AC mixtures. These three imaging techniques are digital camera imaging, scanning electron microscope (SEM) imaging, and X-ray computed tomography (CT) scan. Extensive insight has been presented into these imaging techniques, including their principles, methods, sample preparation, and associated instruments. This review provides guidelines for future research on using these imaging techniques to analyze the microstructure of AC mixtures and assess their long-term performance.
A Fast Acquisition Algorithm for Hybrid Signals of 5G and BeiDou B1
Authors: Yang Xu , Zhuang Chen , Feng Wenquan , Wang Qiang , Yang Zhe , Hu Shan , Yang Xu
Published: July 2023

With the large-scale use of BeiDou navigation and 5G technology worldwide, integrating BeiDou navigation and communication has become a hot research topic in navigation and positioning technology. Low-cost, miniaturized, and susceptible mixed-signal receivers will become the future receiver technology development trend. However, the current receiver technology still faces the challenge of further improving the positioning service capability and communication quality, which includes the lack of practical analysis of the compatibility between signals and the lack of mixed-signal processing capability of the receiver baseband key technology. To address these problems, we start by analyzing the signal part of 5G out-of-band signals falling into the BD B1 signal band, conduct a detailed analysis of the mixed signal regime and frequency planning, and design a hybrid receiver architecture compatible with both signals, and propose an SC-PMF-FFT fast capture algorithm based on strong correlation, which takes advantage of the strong correlation of signals broadcast on the BD B1 frequency point from B1I to B1C, and reuses the structure of the CDMA system signal capture algorithm to complete the fast capture of 5G signals using an OFDM system. The experiments show that the method can capture the BeiDou B1 signal with a sensitivity of −154 dBm and a whole constellation capture time of no more than 40 ms with the inlet power of the 5G signal not exceeding −45 dBw.
The Use of Empirical Mode Decomposition on Heart Rate Variability Signals to Assess Autonomic Neuropathy Progression in Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Cossul Sandra , Andreis Felipe Rettore , Favretto Mateus Andre , Marques Jefferson Luiz Brum
Published: July 2023

In this study, we investigated the use of empirical mode decomposition (EMD)-based features extracted from electrocardiogram (ECG) RR interval signals to differentiate between different levels of cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy (CAN) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This study involved 60 participants divided into three groups: no CAN, subclinical CAN, and established CAN. Six EMD features (area of analytic signal representation—ASRarea; area of the ellipse evaluated from the second-order difference plot—SODParea; central tendency measure of SODP—SODPCTM; power spectral density (PSD) peak amplitude—PSDpkamp; PSD band power—PSDbpow; and PSD mean frequency—PSDmfreq) were extracted from the RR interval signals and compared between groups. The results revealed significant differences between the noCAN and estCAN individuals for all EMD features and their components, except for the PSDmfreq. However, only some EMD components of each feature showed significant differences between individuals with noCAN or estCAN and those with subCAN. This study found a pattern of decreasing ASRarea and SODParea values, an increasing SODPCTM value, and a reduction in PSDbpow and PSDpkamp values as the CAN progressed. These findings suggest that the EMD outcome measures could contribute to characterizing changes associated with CAN manifestation in individuals with T2DM.
Impact of Aspiration Percutaneous Vertebroplasty in Reducing Bone Cement Leakage and Enhancing Distribution—An Ex Vivo Study in Goat Vertebrae
Authors: Lu Hsin-Tzu , Lin Jia-Yi , Tsuei Yu-Chuan , Hsu Yung-Fu , Chen Chung-Yi , Cheng Shih-Hao , Chu William , Li Chuan , Chu Woei-Chyn
Published: July 2023

Osteoporosis-induced vertebral compression fracture (OVCF) occurs commonly in people over the age of 50, especially among menopausal women. Besides conservative therapy, minimally invasive percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) and kyphoplasty (PKP) have been widely used in clinical treatment and achieved good efficacy. However, the leakage of bone cement (CL) during vertebroplasty (PV) is a major risk that can cause (serious) complications such as compression of the spinal cord, pulmonary embolism, or even paraplegia. In this study, we introduced a new aspiration technique with standard PV procedures (APV) to ameliorate the risk of leakage with quantitative verifications of its effectiveness. APV intends to create a differential pressure to guide the direction of cement flow within the vertebrae. To test this technique, Nubian goats’ ex vivo vertebral bodies (VBs) were used to simulate the PV surgical process in humans. Results show that the proposed APV has a lower leakage rate of 13% compared to the 53% of conventional PV. Additionally, the APV approach achieves more uniform cement distribution via the 9-score method with a value of 7 ± 1.30 in contrast to 4 ± 1.78 by conventional PV.
Clutching at Guidance Cues: The Integrin–FAK Axis Steers Axon Outgrowth
Authors: Davis-Lunn Mathew , Goult Benjamin T. , Andrews Melissa R.
Published: July 2023

Integrin receptors are essential contributors to neurite outgrowth and axon elongation. Activated integrins engage components of the extracellular matrix, enabling the growth cone to form point contacts, which connect the extracellular substrate to dynamic intracellular protein complexes. These adhesion complexes facilitate efficient growth cone migration and neurite extension. Major signalling pathways mediated by the adhesion complex are instigated by focal adhesion kinase (FAK), whilst axonal guidance molecules present in vivo promote growth cone turning or retraction by local modulation of FAK activity. Activation of FAK is marked by phosphorylation following integrin engagement, and this activity is tightly regulated during neurite outgrowth. FAK inhibition slows neurite outgrowth by reducing point contact turnover; however, mutant FAK constructs with enhanced activity stimulate aberrant outgrowth. Importantly, FAK is a major structural component of maturing adhesion sites, which provide the platform for actin polymerisation to drive leading edge advance. In this review, we discuss the coordinated signalling of integrin receptors and FAK, as well as their role in regulating neurite outgrowth and axon elongation. We also discuss the importance of the integrin–FAK axis in vivo, as integrin expression and activation are key determinants of successful axon regeneration following injury.
Life Experience Matters: Enrichment and Stress Can Influence the Likelihood of Developing Alzheimer’s Disease via Gut Microbiome
Authors: Torraville Sarah E. , Flynn Cassandra M. , Kendall Tori L. , Yuan Qi
Published: July 2023

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a chronic neurodegenerative disease, characterized by the presence of β-amyloid (Aβ) plaques and neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) formed from abnormally phosphorylated tau proteins (ptau). To date, there is no cure for AD. Earlier therapeutic efforts have focused on the clinical stages of AD. Despite paramount efforts and costs, pharmaceutical interventions including antibody therapies targeting Aβ have largely failed. This highlights the need to alternate treatment strategies and a shift of focus to early pre-clinical stages. Approximately 25–40% of AD cases can be attributed to environmental factors including chronic stress. Gut dysbiosis has been associated with stress and the pathogenesis of AD and can increase both Aβ and NFTs in animal models of the disease. Both stress and enrichment have been shown to alter AD progression and gut health. Targeting stress-induced gut dysbiosis through probiotic supplementation could provide a promising intervention to delay disease progression. In this review, we discuss the effects of stress, enrichment, and gut dysbiosis in AD models and the promising evidence from probiotic intervention studies.
The Role of NMDA Receptor Partial Antagonist, Carbamathione, as a Therapeutic Agent for Transient Global Ischemia
Authors: Modi Jigar Pravinchandra , Shen Wen , Menzie-Suderam Janet , Xu Hongyuan , Lin Chun-Hua , Tao Rui , Prentice Howard M. , Schloss John , Wu Jang-Yen
Published: July 2023

Carbamathione (Carb), an NMDA glutamate receptor partial antagonist, has potent neuroprotective functions against hypoxia- or ischemia-induced neuronal injury in cell- or animal-based stroke models. We used PC-12 cell cultures as a cell-based model and bilateral carotid artery occlusion (BCAO) for stroke. Whole-cell patch clamp recording in the mouse retinal ganglion cells was performed. Key proteins involved in apoptosis, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and heat shock proteins were analyzed using immunoblotting. Carb is effective in protecting PC12 cells against glutamate- or hypoxia-induced cell injury. Electrophysiological results show that Carb attenuates NMDA-mediated glutamate currents in the retinal ganglion cells, which results in activation of the AKT signaling pathway and increased expression of pro-cell survival biomarkers, e.g., Hsp 27, P-AKT, and Bcl2 and decreased expression of pro-cell death markers, e.g., Beclin 1, Bax, and Cleaved caspase 3, and ER stress markers, e.g., CHOP, IRE1, XBP1, ATF 4, and eIF2α. Using the BCAO animal stroke model, we found that Carb reduced the brain infarct volume and decreased levels of ER stress markers, GRP 78, CHOP, and at the behavioral level, e.g., a decrease in asymmetric turns and an increase in locomotor activity. These findings for Carb provide promising and rational strategies for stroke therapy.
Fabrication of a Smart Fibrous Biomaterial That Harbors an Active TGF-β1 Peptide: A Promising Approach for Cartilage Regeneration
Authors: Mantsou Aglaia , Papachristou Eleni , Keramidas Panagiotis , Lamprou Paraskevas , Pitou Maria , Papi Rigini M. , Dimitriou Katerina , Aggeli Amalia , Choli-Papadopoulou Theodora
Published: July 2023

The regeneration of articular cartilage remains a serious problem in various pathological conditions such as osteoarthritis, due to the tissue’s low self-healing capacity. The latest therapeutic approaches focus on the construction of biomaterials that induce cartilage repair. This research describes the design, synthesis, and investigation of a safe, “smart”, fibrous scaffold containing a genetically incorporated active peptide for chondrogenic induction. While possessing specific sequences and the respective mechanical properties from natural fibrous proteins, the fibers also incorporate a Transforming Growth Factor-β1 (TGF-β1)-derived peptide (YYVGRKPK) that can promote chondrogenesis. The scaffold formed stable porous networks with shear-thinning properties at 37 °C, as shown by SEM imaging and rheological characterization, and were proven to be non-toxic to human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs). Its chondrogenic capacity was evidenced by a strong increase in the expression of specific chondrogenesis gene markers SOX9, COL2, ACAN, TGFBR1A, and TGFBR2 in cells cultured on “scaffold-TGFβ1” for 21 days and by increased phosphorylation of intracellular signaling proteins Smad-2 and Erk-1/2. Additionally, intense staining of glycosaminoglycans was observed in these cells. According to our results, “scaffold-TGFβ1” is proposed for clinical studies as a safe, injectable treatment for cartilage degeneration.
Morphic Sensors for Respiratory Parameters Estimation: Validation against Overnight Polysomnography
Authors: Naik Ganesh R. , Breen Paul P. , Jayarathna Titus , Tong Benjamin K. , Eckert Danny J. , Gargiulo Gaetano D.
Published: July 2023

Effective monitoring of respiratory disturbances during sleep requires a sensor capable of accurately capturing chest movements or airflow displacement. Gold-standard monitoring of sleep and breathing through polysomnography achieves this task through dedicated chest/abdomen bands, thermistors, and nasal flow sensors, and more detailed physiology, evaluations via a nasal mask, pneumotachograph, and airway pressure sensors. However, these measurement approaches can be invasive and time-consuming to perform and analyze. This work compares the performance of a non-invasive wearable stretchable morphic sensor, which does not require direct skin contact, embedded in a t-shirt worn by 32 volunteer participants (26 males, 6 females) with sleep-disordered breathing who performed a detailed, overnight in-laboratory sleep study. Direct comparison of computed respiratory parameters from morphic sensors versus traditional polysomnography had approximately 95% (95 ± 0.7) accuracy. These findings confirm that novel wearable morphic sensors provide a viable alternative to non-invasively and simultaneously capture respiratory rate and chest and abdominal motions.
A Flexible and Transparent PtNP/SWCNT/PET Electrochemical Sensor for Nonenzymatic Detection of Hydrogen Peroxide Released from Living Cells with Real-Time Monitoring Capability
Authors: Oh Da Eun , Lee Chang-Seuk , Kim Tae Wan , Jeon Seob , Kim Tae Hyun
Published: July 2023

We developed a transparent and flexible electrochemical sensor using a platform based on a network of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) for the non-enzymatic detection of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) released from living cells. We decorated the SWCNT network on a poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) substrate with platinum nanoparticles (PtNPs) using a potentiodynamic method. The PtNP/SWCNT/PET sensor synergized the advantages of a flexible PET substrate, a conducting SWCNT network, and a catalytic PtNP and demonstrated good biocompatibility and flexibility, enabling cell adhesion. The PtNP/SWCNT/PET-based sensor demonstrated enhanced electrocatalytic activity towards H2O2, as well as excellent selectivity, stability, and reproducibility. The sensor exhibited a wide dynamic range of 500 nM to 1 M, with a low detection limit of 228 nM. Furthermore, the PtNP/SWCNT/PET sensor remained operationally stable, even after bending at various angles (15°, 30°, 60°, and 90°), with no noticeable loss of current signal. These outstanding characteristics enabled the PtNP/SWCNT/PET sensor to be practically applied for the direct culture of HeLa cells and the real-time monitoring of H2O2 release by the HeLa cells under drug stimulation.
Thrombin Cleavage of Osteopontin and the Host Anti-Tumor Immune Response
Authors: Leung Lawrence L. , Myles Timothy , Morser John
Published: July 2023

Osteopontin (OPN) is a multi-functional protein that is involved in various cellular processes such as cell adhesion, migration, and signaling. There is a single conserved thrombin cleavage site in OPN that, when cleaved, yields two fragments with different properties from full-length OPN. In cancer, OPN has tumor-promoting activity and plays a role in tumor growth and metastasis. High levels of OPN expression in cancer cells and tumor tissue are found in various types of cancer, including breast, lung, prostate, ovarian, colorectal, and pancreatic cancer, and are associated with poor prognosis and decreased survival rates. OPN promotes tumor progression and invasion by stimulating cell proliferation and angiogenesis and also facilitates the metastasis of cancer cells to other parts of the body by promoting cell adhesion and migration. Furthermore, OPN contributes to immune evasion by inhibiting the activity of immune cells. Thrombin cleavage of OPN initiates OPN’s tumor-promoting activity, and thrombin cleavage fragments of OPN down-regulate the host immune anti-tumor response.
DFT Studies of the Adsorption of Propane and Propene on Metallic Surfaces in Ag/ZrO2 Catalysts as a Model for Catalytic Combustion Reactions of Light Hydrocarbons
Authors: Ruggera José F. , Ocsachoque Marco A. , Montaña Maia , Casella Mónica L. , Lick Ileana D.
Published: July 2023

Molecular modelling studies were carried out at the DFT level of the adsorption of propane and propene on Ag surfaces as a model of the interaction of light hydrocarbons with Ag/ZrO2 catalysts for catalytic combustion reactions. It was found that the most stable mode of adsorption of propene through its π system on Ag atom has energies consistent with chemisorption and generates an elongation of the C1=C2 bond, which would explain the increase in the activity of the catalysts as a function of its metallic charge. The results obtained from the DFT calculations explain the different types of interactions between propene and propane with the metallic surface. The propene is chemisorbed on the Ag surface, distorting its bonds and generating its activation. This would imply that a higher metallic charge in the catalyst would increase the number of active sites in which this activation occurs, generating a higher activity. In addition, with the addition of O, the binding energy between the propene and the metal surface increased. On the other hand, the presence of a metallic surface is not enough for the activation of the propane molecule. This would explain why, by increasing the amount of metal in the catalyst, the activity for the combustion of propane is practically not affected.
The Appropriateness of Empirical Antimicrobial Treatment of Uncomplicated Urinary Tract Infection in Adult Female Patients in Jazan Region, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Darraj Majid A.
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Uncomplicated urinary tract infection (uUTI) is one of the most prevalent bacterial infections in clinical practice. Empirical treatment is used commonly; thus, knowledge of the local antimicrobial susceptibility pattern is crucial to avoid the growing antibiotic resistance. Purpose: The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of the empirical treatment of uUTI and determine the susceptibility pattern for common uUTI causative microorganisms at outpatient clinics in hospitals in the Jazan region. Method: This is a prospective observational study of 120 patients with uncomplicated urinary tract infections attending internal medicine outpatient clinics in Al-Hayat Jazan hospital, Saudi Arabia, from September 2021 to January 2023. Results: In total, 120 patients were included in the study. The mean age of the participants was 48.53 ± 9.29. Risk factors for UTI were found in 57.5%, and type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) was the major risk factor (27.5%). The most common causative microorganism was Escherichia coli (E. coli) (87.5%), followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae (5%), Staphylococcus aureus, Enterobacter spp., and Enterococcus spp. (2.5%). Nitrofurantoin was the most effective antimicrobial agent (sensitivity rate of 91.7%) against all microorganisms, followed by Ciprofloxacin (75%). Conclusions: This study concluded that nitrofurantoin and Ciprofloxacin are suitable empirical treatments for uncomplicated urinary tract infection in the Jazan region, and increased resistance against trimethoprim/sulphamethoxazole (TMPSMX) and cefaclor was observed; thus, empirical therapy with these agents should be reconsidered in local guidelines. Wide surveillance research is necessary to monitor effective empirical therapies and to evaluate the regional antimicrobial susceptibility pattern.
Radiotherapy in Uveal Melanoma: A Review of Ocular Complications
Authors: Banou Lamprini , Tsani Zoi , Arvanitogiannis Konstantinos , Pavlaki Maria , Dastiridou Anna , Androudi Sofia
Published: July 2023

Uveal melanoma represents the most prevalent form of primary malignant intraocular tumor in adults. Historically, enucleation was considered the gold-standard approach in the treatment of uveal melanoma. Currently, radiotherapy is the most commonly used therapy, aiming at a better quality of life. However, radiotherapy can result in several ocular complications, some of which may be vision-threatening. Radiation-induced dry eye, scleral necrosis, cataract, rubeosis iridis, neovascular glaucoma, radiation retinopathy, maculopathy, and optic neuropathy are the most common complications. This article aims to summarize the current literature regarding the ocular complications after radiotherapy, as well as their clinical features, risk factors, and management strategies. A thorough understanding of these issues is crucial for ophthalmologists and oncologists to provide optimal patient care, improve visual outcomes, and minimize long-term complications.
Endovascular Treatment of Cerebral Vein Thrombosis: Safety and Effectiveness in the Thrombectomy Era
Authors: Piano Mariangela , Romi Andrea , Cervo Amedeo , Gatti Antonella , Macera Antonio , Pero Guglielmo , Motto Cristina , Agostoni Elio Clemente , Lozupone Emilio
Published: July 2023

Cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) is a rare cause of stroke that tends to affect young people. Endovascular treatment (EVT) has not yet shown to be beneficial in CVT and is therefore actually only indicated as rescue therapy in severe and refractory cases for medical treatment. Clinical, neuroimaging, procedural and follow-up data were evaluated in order to define the safety and efficacy of EVT in the management of CVT between January 2016 and December 2022. Safety was assessed on the basis of recording adverse events. Functional outcomes (NIHSS, mRS) and neuroimaging were recorded at onset, at discharge and at a 6-month follow-up. Efficacy was assessed evaluating the recanalization rate at the end of the procedure. Twenty-one patients (17 female, 4 male, range 16–84 years) with CVT underwent EVT. Overall morbidity and mortality were both at 4.7%. Median NIHSS at the onset and at the discharge were, respectively, 10 and 2. Successful recanalization was achieved in 21/23 procedures (91.3%). Imaging follow-up (FUP) showed stable recanalization in all but one patient with successful recanalization. In 18/21 patients, a good clinical independence (mRS 0–2) was recorded at 6 months. Our study adds evidence on the safety and efficacy of endovascular techniques in the treatment of CVT.
Impact of Teachers’ Demographics on Total Quality Management Parameters—The Case of Primary Education
Authors: Kaiseroglou Nikolaos , Sfakianaki Eleni , Koemtzi Maria
Published: July 2023

The purpose of this paper is to highlight the application of TQM in primary education (PE) by exploring teachers’ views and, more specifically, by examining the impact of their demographic data on their attitude towards TQM. A study was conducted among teachers in Greek public primary schools with the aim being to investigate their views on seven TQM parameters. The study used a structured questionnaire that was positively evaluated for validity and reliability. In total, 2088 completed questionnaires were collected, and non-parametric tests were employed. The results reveal statistically significant differences among groups of respondents based on gender, job–position, educational level, age, and years of experience in PE, as well as geographical location of the school. The study provides real-time empirical evidence of TQM in PE, enriching the existing literature, which lacks empirical and validated data from the PE level. The data revealed by the study indicate differences in perception of the TQM concept and its application among the participants, and their response should be further analysed to explore the reasons that generate them and, thus, facilitate the initiation of TQM practices within a PE school environment.
Investigation of the Distribution Problem in the Operating State of an Electromagnetic Railgun: Radio Fuse Disturbance, Field Characteristics, and Susceptible
Authors: Wen Ruihu , Li Ping , Wang Haibin
Published: July 2023

The purpose of this article is to analyze the front door coupling effect that may occur in the projectile receiver due to the discharge pulse radiation in electromagnetic railguns, and to simulate the discharge pulse interference. This phenomenon will have an impact on the launch of the projectile, causing its fuse to be disturbed, ultimately affecting the weapon performance of the electromagnetic railgun. Discharge refers to when the armature carrying the projectile is fired out of the chamber, and the armature connected between the two rails detaches, causing a circuit break in the electrical circuit during the operation of the electromagnetic railgun. The current flowing through the armature is disturbed, causing an instantaneous high voltage to penetrate the air gap between the two rails, generating nanosecond pulse width discharge voltage pulse radiation, with a spectrum of up to tens of megahertz. In this paper, we establish a receiving antenna model on the projectile, which is essentially a horn antenna, receiving electromagnetic pulses from the discharge process, and coupling the pulse interference through its front door. During the analysis and calculation, we established an antenna receiver model located in the C-band with a frequency of 6 GHz for simulation, analyzed and calculated the actual interference loaded on the projectile after front door coupling, and verified the correctness of the simulation settings and results by comparing with the literature. Finally, we found that because the main energy spectrum of the pulse is at MHz level, when the front door of the C-band horn antenna is coupled, the standing wave ratio of the antenna is very large and the gain is very small, so the pulse interference is filtered, which can make the interference finally loaded on the projectile insufficient to affect the normal operation of the projectile. At the same time, it is recommended to add an RF filter to the receiving channel to further enhance anti-interference ability, so as to ultimately enable the electromagnetic railgun to function properly.
Better Safe Than Sorry: Constructing Byzantine-Robust Federated Learning with Synthesized Trust
Authors: Geng Gangchao , Cai Tianyang , Yang Zheng
Published: July 2023

Byzantine-robust federated learning empowers the central server to acquire high-end global models amidst a restrictive set of malicious clients. The general idea of existing learning methods requires the central server to statistically analyze all local parameter (gradient or weight) updates, and to delete suspicious ones. The drawback of these approaches is that they lack a root of trust that would allow us to identify which local parameter updates are suspicious, which means that malicious clients can still disrupt the global model. The machine learning community has recently proposed a new method, FLTrust (NDSS’2021), where the server achieves robust aggregation by using a tiny, uncontaminated dataset (denoted as the root dataset) to generate the root of trust; however, the global model’s accuracy will significantly decline if the root dataset greatly deviates from the client’s dataset. To address the above problems, we propose FLEST: a Federated LEarning with Synthesized Trust method. Our method considers that trust and anomaly detection methods can complementarily solve their respective problems; therefore, we designed a new robust aggregation rule with synthesized trust scores (STS). Specifically, we propose the trust synthesizing mechanism, which can aggregate trust scores (TS) and confidence scores (CS) into STS through a dynamic trust ratio γ, and we use STS as the weight for aggregating the local parameter updates. Our experimental results demonstrated that FLEST is capable of resisting existing attacks, even when the root dataset distribution significantly differs from the total dataset distribution: for example, the global model trained by FLEST is 41% more accurate than FLTrust for adaptive attacks using the mnist-0.5 dataset with the bias probability set to 0.8.
A Reactive Power Injection Algorithm for Improving the Microgrid Operational Reliability
Authors: Liu Baoquan , Li Haoxuan , Zhang Haoming , Han Meng
Published: July 2023

Stand-alone microgrids have become reliable and efficient solutions for remote areas and critical infrastructures. However, the converters within these microgrids experience long-term complex power fluctuations caused by random variations in micro sources and loads. These power fluctuations induce thermal cycling in semiconductor chips, leading to thermal fatigue failure and compromising the safety and reliability of both the converter and microgrid operation. To address this issue, this paper proposes a reactive power injection algorithm aimed at reducing the output power fluctuation of the converter. The algorithm implements reactive power injection at the converter control level, thereby restructuring the output power profile and resulting in reduced junction temperature fluctuations in IGBTs. This approach effectively mitigates thermal stress within the material layers of the module, extending the lifetime of power devices and improving the operational reliability of the microgrid. The algorithm implementation is based on the PQ control strategy, integrating the power triangle with the envelope detection technique. Furthermore, the lifetime prediction process utilizes the electro-thermal coupling model, the rainflow counting algorithm, and the Lesit model. Simulation results demonstrate that, for an active power fluctuation range of 10 kW to 80 kW and an equivalent RC time constant of 22.5 s, the algorithm achieves a significant reduction of 62.64% in the amplitude of output power fluctuation and extends the lifetime of power devices by 74.13%. The obtained data showcase the effectiveness of the algorithm in enhancing the lifetime of power devices and further improving the microgrid operational reliability under specific parameter conditions.
Multi-View Projection Learning via Adaptive Graph Embedding for Dimensionality Reduction
Authors: Li Haohao , Gao Mingliang , Wang Huibing , Jeon Gwanggil
Published: July 2023

In order to explore complex structures and relationships hidden in data, plenty of graph-based dimensionality reduction methods have been widely investigated and extended to the multi-view learning field. For multi-view dimensionality reduction, the key point is extracting the complementary and compatible multi-view information to analyze the complex underlying structure of the samples, which is still a challenging task. We propose a novel multi-view dimensionality reduction algorithm that integrates underlying structure learning and dimensionality reduction for each view into one framework. Because the prespecified graph derived from original noisy high-dimensional data is usually low-quality, the subspace constructed based on such a graph is also low-quality. To obtain the optimal graph for dimensionality reduction, we propose a framework that learns the affinity based on the low-dimensional representation of all views and performs the dimensionality reduction based on it jointly. Although original data is noisy, the local structure information of them is also valuable. Therefore, in the graph learning process, we also introduce the information of predefined graphs based on each view feature into the optimal graph. Moreover, assigning the weight to each view based on its importance is essential in multi-view learning, the proposed GoMPL automatically allocates an appropriate weight to each view in the graph learning process. The obtained optimal graph is then adopted to learn the projection matrix for each individual view by graph embedding. We provide an effective alternate update method for learning the optimal graph and optimal subspace jointly for each view. We conduct many experiments on various benchmark datasets to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Exploiting Photovoltaic Sources to Regulate Bus Voltage for DC Microgrids
Authors: Cai Hongda , Li Jing , Wang Yu , Wei Wei
Published: July 2023

DC microgrids are highly compatible with photovoltaic (PV) generation because of their direct-current properties. However, with the increasing integration of PV sources into DC microgrids, traditional maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithms may cause problems such as overvoltage and power fluctuation, which makes it challenging to keep the stability of the DC-bus voltage due to the intermittent and stochastic nature of PVs. Consequently, in order to reduce the investment and maintenance costs of storage systems, innovative control methods are required for PVs to provide DC-bus voltage regulation services. In this paper, a novel active power control (APC) strategy, based on characteristic curve fitting, is proposed to flexibly regulate the PV output power. The transient process performance and robustness of the system are improved with the proposed APC strategy. Based on it, a V-P droop mechanism is designed to provide voltage regulating (DVR) service for the DC microgrid. The overall control strategy unifies the DVR function with the traditional MPPT function in the same control structure; thus, the PV source either works in the MPPT mode if the DC-bus is at its nominal value, or it works in the DVR mode if the DC-bus exceeds it. Switching between MPPT and DVR is autonomous, and it is fully decentralized, which improves the PV generation efficiency as well as ensures generation fairness among different parallel PV sources. Case studies including a real-world project analysis are carried out to validate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed strategy.
Design and Analysis of a Stator Field Control Permanent Magnet Synchronous Starter–Generator System
Authors: Zhang Haoquan , Kou Baoquan , Zhang Lu
Published: July 2023

In recent years, the permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) has garnered significant attention due to its high power density and efficiency in applications such as electric vehicles, aviation, and other domains. This paper proposes a stator field control permanent magnet synchronous starter–generator (SFC-PMSSG) system. The starter–generator system comprises the SFC-PMSSG and a field controller (FC). A mathematical model of the SFC-PMSSG is established. Finite element analysis (FEA) is employed to obtain the electromagnetic parameters of the SFC-PMSSG, and the characteristics of the SFC-PMSSG are analyzed. A circuit simulation model of the FC is established to assess the control effect and the loss of the FC. A co-analysis of the system is conducted, and the results demonstrate that the SFC-PMSSG system can maintain output voltage stability as load and speed conditions vary.