bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Solution Combustion Synthesis of Ni/Al2O3 Catalyst for Methane Decomposition: Effect of Fuel
Authors: Kurmashov Pavel B. , Ukhina Arina V. , Manakhov Anton , Ishchenko Arkady V. , Maksimovskii Evgenii A. , Bannov Alexander G.
Published: March 2023

The synthesis of a 90% Ni/Al2O3 catalyst via solution combustion synthesis with various fuels was studied in this work. Catalysts with a high content of the active component (i.e., nickel) were obtained as a result of the combustion of Ni(NO3)2·6H2O and Al(NO3)3·9H2O mixtures with fuel. The fuels, such as hexamethylenetetramine, glycine, urea, starch, citric acid, and oxalic acid, were investigated. The synthesis was carried out in a furnace, with the temperature being raised from room temperature to 450 °C at a rate of 1 °C per min. The paper evaluates the efficiency of fuels and their effect on the structure and properties of catalysts, as well as their catalytic activity. The catalyst was used for the synthesis of hydrogen and carbon nanofibers by methane decomposition at 1 bar and 550 °C. The catalysts were tested in a vertical flow reactor without preliminary reduction. The obtained samples of catalysts and carbon nanomaterials were studied by transmission electron microscopy, low-temperature nitrogen adsorption, and X-ray diffraction. The highest activity of the catalyst was obtained when citric acid was used as a fuel. The specific yields of hydrogen and carbon nanofibers were 17.1 mol/gcat and 171.3 g/gcat, respectively. Catalytic decomposition of methane led to the formation of cup-stacked carbon nanofibers.
Resilience Assessment of Beijing Subway Lines under Extreme Precipitation Weather
Authors: Wei Yun , Liang Jingyu , Deng Yongxin , Dou Fei , Ning Yao , Zhou Dong , Liu Jie
Published: March 2023

Traffic infrastructure safety is a core topic in traffic construction and development. As the impact of global climate change becomes more and more significant, extreme weather brings more and more safety issues to the normal operation of subway systems. Therefore, it is an urgent issue in the construction of subway systems to fully prepare for extreme weather and improve system resilience under external disturbances. The resilience of a complex system generally refers to its ability to adapt to external disturbances and return to a functional state. As one of several key infrastructure systems in large cities, a subway system needs to be highly resilient to cope with various risks, and it needs to recover quickly under uncertain weather conditions and other external damage events. In order to achieve the goal of conducting a real-time resilience assessment of a subway system, this study adopts the Bayesian network and the traditional failure mode and effect analysis (FMEA) method to realize resilience assessment with multiple performance indicators. Combined with the risk matrix method from FMEA, multiple important indicators of a subway system under the influence of extreme weather are obtained. These important indicators are integrated into the resilience assessment of the subway system within a Bayesian method. In this paper, the feasibility and applicability of the proposed method are verified by taking the Changping Line of the Beijing subway under extreme rainfall weather (>10 mm) as a case.
Brown Rot Caused by Gnomoniopsis smithogilvyi (syn. Gnomoniopsis castaneae) at the Level of the Chestnut Tree (Castanea sativa Mill.)
Authors: Lema Filipe , Baptista Paula , Oliveira Cristina , Ramalhosa Elsa
Published: March 2023

The European chestnut tree (Castanea sativa Mill.) has great economic importance, mostly due to the recognized nutritional value of its fruit. Thus, the development and improvement of the techniques of the production, preservation, and control of the diseases/pests of chestnut trees is a topic of great interest to producers, companies, researchers, and consumers to ensure the quality of this exceptional fruit. Recently, an emerging rot in chestnuts caused by the fungus Gnomoniopsis smithogilvyi (syn. Gnomoniopsis castaneae Tamietti) (Gnomoniaceae, Diaporthales) was reported both in Australia and Europe. Since then, the number of records of this pathogen in several countries of the world (Europe and Asia) where Castanea spp. is cultivated has been increasing. This disease, called “brown rot”, has been causing significant production losses, raising serious concerns for producers and the chestnut industry. This review describes the world distribution and life cycle of the causal agent of brown rot. The life cycle of G. smithogilvyi can involve primary infection, caused by ascospores, and secondary infection, related to the asexual phase of the fungus (conidia). Then, the analytical methods used to detect G. smithogilvyi are described. Furthermore, the incidences of the disease caused by G. smithogilvyi are presented, ranging from 5 to 94%, with high infection rates causing significant economic losses. The damages caused by G. smithogilvyi are discussed. In fact, it can act as an endophyte or as a pathogenic fungus, causing fruit rot, canker in several plant tissues, and necrosis in leaves, as well as in galls caused by the gall wasp Dryocosmus kuriphilus Yasumatsu. Possible pre- and post-harvest methods to mitigate the damage caused by moulds, and in particular G. smithogilvyi, are presented, including biocontrol agents and chemicals. Finally, some challenges and future prospects for a number of uncertainties related to the epidemiology, geographic distribution, spread, detection, and management of this disease are discussed.
Smart Contract-Enabled Secure Sharing of Health Data for a Mobile Cloud-Based E-Health System
Authors: Chinnasamy P. , Albakri Ashwag , Khan Mudassir , Raja A. Ambeth , Kiran Ajmeera , Babu Jyothi Chinna
Published: March 2023

Healthcare comprises the largest revenue and data boom markets. Sharing knowledge about healthcare is crucial for research that can help healthcare providers and patients. Several cloud-based applications have been suggested for data sharing in healthcare. However, the trustworthiness of third-party cloud providers remains unclear. The third-party dependency problem was resolved using blockchain technology. The primary objective of this growth was to replace the distributed system with a centralized one. Therefore, security is a critical requirement for protecting health records. Efforts have been made to implement blockchain technology to improve the security of this sensitive material. However, existing methods depend primarily on information obtained from medical examinations. Furthermore, they are ineffective for sharing continuously produced data streams from sensors and other monitoring devices. We propose a trustworthy access control system that uses smart contracts to achieve greater security while sharing electronic health records among various patients and healthcare providers. Our concept offers an active resolution for secure data sharing in mobility computing while protecting personal health information from potential risks. In assessing existing data sharing models, the framework valuation and protection approach recognizes increases in the practicality of lightweight access control architecture, low network expectancy, and significant levels of security and data concealment.
Anticancer and Drug-Sensitizing Activities of Gold Nanoparticles Synthesized from Cyclopia genistoides (Honeybush) Extracts
Authors: Sharma Jyoti Rajan , Sibuyi Nicole Remaliah Samantha , Fadaka Adewale Oluwaseun , Meyer Samantha , Madiehe Abram Madimabe , Katti Kattesh , Meyer Mervin
Published: March 2023

Synthesis of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) using phytochemicals has become tremendously prominent in biomedical applications because of its enhanced bioactivity and biocompatibility. In this study, water extracts from the leaves of Cyclopia genistoides (C. genistoides), commonly known as honeybush (HB), were used to synthesize honeybush gold nanoparticles (HB-AuNPs). The HB water extracts (HBE) served as both reducing and capping agents in the synthesis of HB-AuNPs. The HB-AuNPs were characterized by UV–Vis spectrophotometry, dynamic light scattering (DLS), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The cytotoxicity and apoptotic effects of the HBE and HB-AuNPs, alone and in combination with doxorubicin (Dox), were examined against various human cell lines. Spherical-shaped HB-AuNPs with a hydrodynamic diameter range of 63 to 121 nm were produced. The HB-AuNPs conferred selective cytotoxicity against colon (Caco-2), breast (MCF-7), and prostate (PC-3) cancer cells and did not display any cytotoxicity to non-cancerous skin fibroblast (KMST-6) and human embryonic kidney (HEK)-293 cells. Moreover, co-treatment of Caco-2 cells with HB-AuNPs and Dox (at non-toxic concentrations) significantly enhanced the anti-cancer effects of Dox towards the Caco-2 cells. Furthermore, it was demonstrated that HB-AuNPs induced PC-3 cell death through apoptosis. Further studies are warranted to elucidate the mechanisms by which the HB-AuNPs influence cell death when used alone or in combination with drugs, as well as the type of phytochemicals involved in AuNPs synthesis and activity.
Path Segmentation from Point Cloud Data for Autonomous Navigation
Authors: Rajathi Krishnamoorthi , Gomathi Nandhagopal , Mahdal Miroslav , Guras Radek
Published: March 2023

Autonomous vehicles require in-depth knowledge of their surroundings, making path segmentation and object detection crucial for determining the feasible region for path planning. Uniform characteristics of a road portion can be denoted by segmentations. Currently, road segmentation techniques mostly depend on the quality of camera images under different lighting conditions. However, Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) sensors can provide extremely precise 3D geometry information about the surroundings, leading to increased accuracy with increased memory consumption and computational overhead. This paper introduces a novel methodology which combines LiDAR and camera data for road detection, bridging the gap between 3D LiDAR Point Clouds (PCs). The assignment of semantic labels to 3D points is essential in various fields, including remote sensing, autonomous vehicles, and computer vision. This research discusses how to select the most relevant geometric features for path planning and improve autonomous navigation. An automatic framework for Semantic Segmentation (SS) is introduced, consisting of four processes: selecting neighborhoods, extracting classification features, and selecting features. The aim is to make the various components usable for end users without specialized knowledge by considering simplicity, effectiveness, and reproducibility. Through an extensive evaluation of different neighborhoods, geometric features, feature selection methods, classifiers, and benchmark datasets, the outcomes show that selecting the appropriate neighborhoods significantly develops 3D path segmentation. Additionally, selecting the right feature subsets can reduce computation time, memory usage, and enhance the quality of the results.
Study of Mechanical Properties of Micron Polystyrene-Toughened Epoxy Resin
Authors: Li Chunxu , Liu Yan , Chen Zhuoyi
Published: March 2023

Epoxy resin has a tight three-dimensional mesh structure after curing; due to this reason, the epoxy resin is brittle and not tough enough, which becomes the main reason for the destruction of the epoxy adhesive-steel/CFRP interface under fatigue loading of CFRP-reinforced steel structures. To prepare epoxy adhesives with good performance and suitable for CFRP-reinforced steel structures, the mechanical properties of epoxy adhesives are improved by adding polystyrene (PS) microspheres. In this work, five modified adhesives with PS weight fractions of 0 wt%, 1.25 wt%, 2.50 wt%, 3.75 wt% and 5 wt% are prepared by dispersion of PS particles through an ultrasonic cell crusher using a room-temperature curing process, and the tensile, flexural and impact properties of PS adhesives with different doping are investigated. Then, the microscopic morphology of the tensile section of the colloids is observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results show that the optimum dosing of PS is 2.5 wt%, and the tensile strength, tensile modulus of elasticity, flexural strength, flexural modulus and impact strength of the adhesive are increased by 77%, 147.7%, 71%, 35% and 22%, respectively, with this dosing. SEM analysis shows that PS particles produce large deformation to absorb energy when the matrix is fractured, and crack expansion needs to bypass or shear the PS particles, thus inhibiting crack expansion and achieving the purpose of toughening. Adhesion agglomeration of PS particles in the resin is the main reason for the decrease in the mechanical properties of adhesives.
Apportionment of PM2.5 Sources across Sites and Time Periods: An Application and Update for Detroit, Michigan
Authors: Yang Zhiyi , Islam Md Kamrul , Xia Tian , Batterman Stuart
Published: March 2023

Identifying sources of air pollutants is essential for informing actions to reduce emissions, exposures, and adverse health impacts. This study updates and extends apportionments of particulate matter (PM2.5) in Detroit, MI, USA, an area with extensive industrial, vehicular, and construction activity interspersed among vulnerable communities. We demonstrate an approach that uses positive matrix factorization models with combined spatially and temporally diverse datasets to assess source contributions, trend seasonal levels, and examine pandemic-related effects. The approach consolidates measurements from 2016 to 2021 collected at three sites. Most PM2.5 was due to mobile sources, secondary sulfate, and secondary nitrate; smaller contributions arose from soil/dust, ferrous and non-ferrous metals, and road salt sources. Several sources varied significantly by season and site. Pandemic-related changes were generally modest. Results of the consolidated models were more consistent with respect to trends and known sources, and the larger sample size should improve representativeness and stability. Compared to earlier apportionments, contributions of secondary sulfate and nitrate were lower, and mobile sources now represent the dominant PM2.5 contributor. We show the growing contribution of mobile sources, the need to update apportionments performed just 5–10 years ago, and that apportionments at a single site may not apply elsewhere in the same urban area, especially for local sources.
Temporal Variation of NO2 and O3 in Rome (Italy) from Pandora and In Situ Measurements
Authors: Di Bernardino Annalisa , Mevi Gabriele , Iannarelli Anna Maria , Falasca Serena , Cede Alexander , Tiefengraber Martin , Casadio Stefano
Published: March 2023

To assess the best measures for the improvement of air quality, it is crucial to investigate in situ and columnar pollution levels. In this study, ground-based measurements of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and ozone (O3) collected in Rome (Italy) between 2017 and 2022 are analyzed. Pandora sun-spectrometers provided the time series of the NO2 vertical column density (VC-NO2), tropospheric column density (TC-NO2), near-surface concentration (SC-NO2), and the O3 vertical column density (VC-O3). In situ concentrations of NO2 and O3 are provided by an urban background air quality station. The results show a clear reduction of NO2 over the years, thanks to the recent ecological transition policies, with marked seasonal variability, observable both by columnar and in situ data. Otherwise, O3 does not show inter-annual variations, although a clear seasonal cycle is detectable. The results suggest that the variation of in situ O3 is mainly imputable to photochemical reactions while, in the VC-O3, it is triggered by the predominant contribution of stratospheric O3. The outcomes highlight the importance of co-located in situ and columnar measurements in urban environments to investigate physical and chemical processes driving air pollution and to design tailored climate change adaptation strategies.
All-Solid-State Thin Film Li-Ion Batteries: New Challenges, New Materials, and New Designs
Authors: Wu Baolin , Chen Chunguang , Danilov Dmitri L. , Eichel Rüdiger-A. , Notten Peter H. L.
Published: March 2023

All-solid-state batteries (ASSBs) are among the remarkable next-generation energy storage technologies for a broad range of applications, including (implantable) medical devices, portable electronic devices, (hybrid) electric vehicles, and even large-scale grid storage. All-solid-state thin film Li-ion batteries (TFLIBs) with an extended cycle life, broad temperature operation range, and minimal self-discharge rate are superior to bulk-type ASSBs and have attracted considerable attention. Compared with conventional batteries, stacking dense thin films reduces the Li-ion diffusion length, thereby improving the rate capability. It is vital to develop TFLIBs with higher energy density and stability. However, multiple challenges, such as interfacial instability, low volumetric energy density, and high manufacturing cost, still hinder the widespread application of TFLIBs. At present, many approaches, such as materials optimization and novel architecture design, have been explored to enhance the stability and energy density of TFLIBs. An overview of these discoveries and developments in TFLIBs is presented in this review, together with new insights into the intrinsic mechanisms of operation; this is of great value to the batteries research community and facilitates further improvements in batteries in the near future.
Cingulum and Uncinate Fasciculus Microstructural Abnormalities in Parkinson’s Disease: A Systematic Review of Diffusion Tensor Imaging Studies
Authors: Rashidi Fatemeh , Khanmirzaei Mohammad Hossein , Hosseinzadeh Farbod , Kolahchi Zahra , Jafarimehrabady Niloofar , Moghisseh Bardia , Aarabi Mohammad Hadi
Published: March 2023

Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) is gaining traction in neuroscience research as a tool for evaluating neural fibers. The technique can be used to assess white matter (WM) microstructure in neurodegenerative disorders, including Parkinson disease (PD). There is evidence that the uncinate fasciculus and the cingulum bundle are involved in the pathogenesis of PD. These fasciculus and bundle alterations correlate with the symptoms and stages of PD. PRISMA 2022 was used to search PubMed and Scopus for relevant articles. Our search revealed 759 articles. Following screening of titles and abstracts, a full-text review, and implementing the inclusion criteria, 62 papers were selected for synthesis. According to the review of selected studies, WM integrity in the uncinate fasciculus and cingulum bundles can vary according to symptoms and stages of Parkinson disease. This article provides structural insight into the heterogeneous PD subtypes according to their cingulate bundle and uncinate fasciculus changes. It also examines if there is any correlation between these brain structures’ structural changes with cognitive impairment or depression scales like Geriatric Depression Scale-Short (GDS). The results showed significantly lower fractional anisotropy values in the cingulum bundle compared to healthy controls as well as significant correlations between FA and GDS scores for both left and right uncinate fasciculus regions suggesting that structural damage from disease progression may be linked to cognitive impairments seen in advanced PD patients. This review help in developing more targeted treatments for different types of Parkinson’s disease, as well as providing a better understanding of how cognitive impairments may be related to these structural changes. Additionally, using DTI scans can provide clinicians with valuable information about white matter tracts which is useful for diagnosing and monitoring disease progression over time.
Effects of Hydrologic Regime Changes on a Taxonomic and Functional Trait Structure of Earthworm Communities in Mountain Wetlands
Authors: Pižl Václav , Sterzyńska Maria , Tajovský Karel , Starý Josef , Nicia Paweł , Zadrożny Paweł , Bejger Romualda
Published: March 2023

Disturbances, both natural and anthropogenic, influence the patterning of species and species traits. The shift in species composition and distribution pattern of functional traits can demonstrate if the community is resistant, sensitive or resilient to the disturbance. Based on species- and trait-based approaches, we examined the response of the earthworm community to changing hydrologic conditions caused by the artificial drainage of mountain fens, in which cumulative effects of disturbance events over space and time are much less dynamic than in riverine wetlands. We hypothesized that the drainage-related changes of mountain fen peat soils have an effect on the earthworm community composition and its functional structure. We assume that the shift in species composition and value of community-weighted functional traits reflect changes in the resilience or resistance of the earthworm community to environmental change. Our results demonstrate that the total density of earthworms was almost three times lower under drained conditions compared to natural ones. Artificial drainage of fens had a neutral effect on the species-based diversity indices. However, there were species-specific traits that responded to hydrologic changes and which led to the species’ replacements and to the co-occurrence of eurytopic, surface-browsing and more drought- and low-pH-resistant earthworm species in the drained fens. Based on these results, we conclude that abiotic-based environmental filtering was the main process responsible for sorting earthworms according to species and traits in the disturbed hydrologic conditions. The greater earthworm functional trait variations in semi-natural hydrologic conditions emphasizes the impact of transient dynamics in an altered disturbance regime on the earthworm assembly. Results also showed that in the changing hydrologic conditions of mountain fens, the functional trait approach revealed only slightly more predictive power than the taxonomic one, but it proved better with processes responsible for earthworm species filtering.
MicroRNA in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiotoxicity
Authors: Kuang Ziyu , Wu Jingyuan , Tan Ying , Zhu Guanghui , Li Jie , Wu Min
Published: March 2023

Doxorubicin (DOX), a broad-spectrum chemotherapy drug, is widely applied to the treatment of cancer; however, DOX-induced cardiotoxicity (DIC) limits its clinical therapeutic utility. However, it is difficult to monitor and detect DIC at an early stage using conventional detection methods. Thus, sensitive, accurate, and specific methods of diagnosis and treatment are important in clinical practice. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) belong to non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) and are stable and easy to detect. Moreover, miRNAs are expected to become biomarkers and therapeutic targets for DIC; thus, there are currently many studies focusing on the role of miRNAs in DIC. In this review, we list the prominent studies on the diagnosis and treatment of miRNAs in DIC, explore the feasibility and difficulties of using miRNAs as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets, and provide recommendations for future research.
Relationship between Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor and Cognitive Decline in Patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment and Dementia
Authors: Nikolac Perkovic Matea , Borovecki Fran , Filipcic Igor , Vuic Barbara , Milos Tina , Nedic Erjavec Gordana , Konjevod Marcela , Tudor Lucija , Mimica Ninoslav , Uzun Suzana , Kozumplik Oliver , Svob Strac Dubravka , Pivac Nela
Published: March 2023

In the last decade, increasing evidence has emerged linking alterations in the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression with the development of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Because of the important role of BDNF in cognition and its association with AD pathogenesis, the aim of this study was to evaluate the potential difference in plasma BDNF concentrations between subjects with mild cognitive impairment (MCI; N = 209) and AD patients (N = 295) and to determine the possible association between BDNF plasma levels and the degree of cognitive decline in these individuals. The results showed a significantly higher (p < 0.001) concentration of plasma BDNF in subjects with AD (1.16; 0.13–21.34) compared with individuals with MCI (0.68; 0.02–19.14). The results of the present study additionally indicated a negative correlation between cognitive functions and BDNF plasma concentrations, suggesting higher BDNF levels in subjects with more pronounced cognitive decline. The correlation analysis revealed a significant negative correlation between BDNF plasma levels and both Mini-Mental State Examination (p < 0.001) and Clock Drawing test (p < 0.001) scores. In conclusion, the results of our study point towards elevated plasma BDNF levels in AD patients compared with MCI subjects, which may be due to the body’s attempt to counteract the early and middle stages of neurodegeneration.
The Implications of Microglial Regulation in Neuroplasticity-Dependent Stroke Recovery
Authors: Qiao Chenye , Liu Zongjian , Qie Shuyan
Published: March 2023

Stroke causes varying degrees of neurological deficits, leading to corresponding dysfunctions. There are different therapeutic principles for each stage of pathological development. Neuroprotection is the main treatment in the acute phase, and functional recovery becomes primary in the subacute and chronic phases. Neuroplasticity is considered the basis of functional restoration and neurological rehabilitation after stroke, including the remodeling of dendrites and dendritic spines, axonal sprouting, myelin regeneration, synapse shaping, and neurogenesis. Spatiotemporal development affects the spontaneous rewiring of neural circuits and brain networks. Microglia are resident immune cells in the brain that contribute to homeostasis under physiological conditions. Microglia are activated immediately after stroke, and phenotypic polarization changes and phagocytic function are crucial for regulating focal and global brain inflammation and neurological recovery. We have previously shown that the development of neuroplasticity is spatiotemporally consistent with microglial activation, suggesting that microglia may have a profound impact on neuroplasticity after stroke and may be a key therapeutic target for post-stroke rehabilitation. In this review, we explore the impact of neuroplasticity on post-stroke restoration as well as the functions and mechanisms of microglial activation, polarization, and phagocytosis. This is followed by a summary of microglia-targeted rehabilitative interventions that influence neuroplasticity and promote stroke recovery.
Distinct Emotional and Cardiac Responses to Audio Erotica between Genders
Authors: Gao Zhongming , Luo Xi , Che Xianwei
Published: March 2023

Emotional and cardiac responses to audio erotica and their gender differences are relatively unclear in the study of the human sexual response. The current study was designed to investigate gender differences regarding positive and negative emotional responses to erotica, as well as its association with cardiac response. A total of 40 healthy participants (20 women) were exposed to erotic, neutral, and happy audio segments during which emotions and heart rate changes were evaluated. Our data showed distinct emotional responses to erotica between genders, in which women reported a higher level of shame than men and rated erotic audios as less pleasant than happy audios. Meanwhile, men reported erotic and happy audios as equally pleasant. These results were independent of cardiac changes, as both sexes demonstrated comparable heart rate deceleration when exposed to erotica relative to neutral and happy stimuli. Our results highlight the role of sociocultural modulation in the emotional response to erotica.
Heat Flow through a Facede with a Controlled Ventilated Gap
Authors: Rubina Aleš , Uher Pavel , Vrána Jakub , Novotný Miloslav , Nespěšný Ondřej , Skřek Daniel , Šuhajdová Eva , Vystrčil Jan , Formánek Marian
Published: March 2023

The article presents current research results in the field of airflow through a façade with a width of 1 m and a height of 13.7 m and with a ventilated gap, and its effect on the year-round heat balance of this façade. An idea to influence airflow in the ventilated gap of the façade is presented based on the results of developed software and the suitability of closing the air gap in winter and in the transition period of the year is described. First, the boundary conditions of the calculations, which are further used in the energy balance between the interior of the building and the exterior environment are defined. In order to include these influences, a discrete analytical calculation was created. It consists of the time distribution of the investigated thermal phenomena calculations. A significant finding is an obvious benefit of controlling the airflow through a ventilated gap in the winter and especially in the transitional period of the year. This technological knowledge has a high potential for energy savings related to the heating of buildings. As the calculations show, airflow control through a ventilated façade reduces heat flow by 25–30% on average, and in contrast, it increases heat gains by 20% and the specific values are presented within the article.
Use of Real Coded Genetic Algorithm as a Pre-Dimensioning Tool for Prestressed Concrete Beams
Authors: Narques Tarniê Vilela Nunes , Carvalho Roberto Chust , Christoforo André Luis , Mascarenhas Fernando Júnior Resende , Arroyo Felipe Nascimento , Bomfim Junior Florisvaldo Cardozo , Santos Herisson Ferreira dos
Published: March 2023

In project practice, the search for optimal solutions is based on the traditional process of trial and error, which consumes much time and does not guarantee that solutions found are the optimal solutions for the problem. Many studies have been developed in recent years with the aim of solving problems in various fields of structural engineering with the aid of intelligent algorithms; however, when it comes to the optimization of structural designs, the approaches considered by the authors involve a large number of variables and constraints, making the implementation of optimization techniques difficult and consuming significant processing time. This research aims to evaluate the efficiency of intelligent algorithms when associated with structural optimization approaches that are simpler to implement. Therefore, a Genetic Algorithm in Real Coding was built to serve as an auxiliary tool for pre-dimensioning prestressed concrete beams. With this, the problem becomes simpler to implement, as it depends on a smaller number of variables, leading to less processing time consumption. Simulations were performed to calibrate the Genetic Algorithm and find the optimal solution later. The solution found by the algorithm was compared with the real solution of a project that had already gone through a traditional optimization process. Even in these circumstances, the proposed Genetic Algorithm was able to find, in 210 s, a more economical solution. Our studies found that even with more straightforward approaches, intelligent algorithms can help in the search for optimal solutions to structural engineering problems; in addition, using real coding in fact proved to be a great strategy due to the nature of the problem, making the implementation of the algorithm simpler and ensuring answers with little processing time.
Support Tools in the Differential Diagnosis of Salivary Gland Tumors through Inflammatory Biomarkers and Radiomics Metrics: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Committeri Umberto , Barone Simona , Salzano Giovanni , Arena Antonio , Borriello Gerardo , Giovacchini Francesco , Fusco Roberta , Vaira Luigi Angelo , Scarpa Alfonso , Abbate Vincenzo , Ugga Lorenzo , Piombino Pasquale , Ionna Franco , Califano Luigi , Orabona Giovanni Dell’Aversana
Published: March 2023

Background: The purpose of this study was to investigate how the systemic inflammation response index (SIRI), systemic immune-inflammation index (SII), neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet/lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and radiomic metrics (quantitative descriptors of image content) extracted from MRI sequences by machine learning increase the efficacy of proper presurgical differentiation between benign and malignant salivary gland tumors. Methods: A retrospective study of 117 patients with salivary gland tumors was conducted between January 2015 and November 2022. Univariate analyses with nonparametric tests and multivariate analyses with machine learning approaches were used. Results: Inflammatory biomarkers showed statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) in the Kruskal–Wallis test based on median values in discriminating Warthin tumors from pleomorphic adenoma and malignancies. The accuracy of NLR, PLR, SII, and SIRI was 0.88, 0.74, 0.76, and 0.83, respectively. Analysis of radiomic metrics to discriminate Warthin tumors from pleomorphic adenoma and malignancies showed statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) in nine radiomic features. The best multivariate analysis result was obtained from an SVM model with 86% accuracy, 68% sensitivity, and 91% specificity for six features. Conclusions: Inflammatory biomarkers and radiomic features can comparably support a pre-surgical differential diagnosis.
CCR7 Mediates Cell Invasion and Migration in Extrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma by Inducing Epithelial–Mesenchymal Transition
Authors: Oba Mitsunobu , Nakanishi Yoshitsugu , Mitsuhashi Tomoko , Sasaki Katsunori , Hatanaka Kanako C. , Sasaki Masako , Nange Ayae , Okumura Asami , Hayashi Mariko , Yoshida Yusuke , Nitta Takeo , Ueno Takashi , Yamada Toru , Ono Masato , Kuwabara Shota , Okamura Keisuke , Tsuchikawa Takahiro , Nakamura Toru , Noji Takehiro , Asano Toshimichi , Tanaka Kimitaka , Takayama Kiyoshi , Hatanaka Yutaka , Hirano Satoshi
Published: March 2023

The epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) contributes to the metastatic cascade in various tumors. C-C chemokine receptor 7 (CCR7) interacts with its ligand, chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 19 (CCL19), to promote EMT. However, the association between EMT and CCR7 in extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (EHCC) remains unknown. This study aimed to elucidate the prognostic impact of CCR7 expression and its association with clinicopathological features and EMT in EHCC. The association between CCR7 expression and clinicopathological features and EMT status was examined via the immunohistochemical staining of tumor sections from 181 patients with perihilar cholangiocarcinoma. This association was then investigated in TFK-1 and EGI-1 EHCC cell lines. High-grade CCR7 expression was significantly associated with a large number of tumor buds, low E-cadherin expression, and poor overall survival. TFK-1 showed CCR7 expression, and Western blotting revealed E-cadherin downregulation and vimentin upregulation in response to CCL19 treatment. The wound healing and Transwell invasion assays revealed that the activation of CCR7 by CCL19 enhanced the migration and invasion of TFK-1 cells, which were abrogated by a CCR7 antagonist. These results suggest that a high CCR7 expression is associated with an adverse postoperative prognosis via EMT induction and that CCR7 may be a potential target for adjuvant therapy in EHCC.
Leptomeningeal Disease (LMD) in Patients with Melanoma Metastases
Authors: Khaled Mariam Lotfy , Tarhini Ahmad A. , Forsyth Peter A. , Smalley Inna , Piña Yolanda
Published: March 2023

Leptomeningeal disease (LMD) is a devastating complication caused by seeding malignant cells to the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and the leptomeningeal membrane. LMD is diagnosed in 5–15% of patients with systemic malignancy. Management of LMD is challenging due to the biological and metabolic tumor microenvironment of LMD being largely unknown. Patients with LMD can present with a wide variety of signs and/or symptoms that could be multifocal and include headache, nausea, vomiting, diplopia, and weakness, among others. The median survival time for patients with LMD is measured in weeks and up to 3–6 months with aggressive management, and death usually occurs due to progressive neurologic dysfunction. In melanoma, LMD is associated with a suppressive immune microenvironment characterized by a high number of apoptotic and exhausted CD4+ T-cells, myeloid-derived suppressor cells, and a low number of CD8+ T-cells. Proteomics analysis revealed enrichment of complement cascade, which may disrupt the blood–CSF barrier. Clinical management of melanoma LMD consists primarily of radiation therapy, BRAF/MEK inhibitors as targeted therapy, and immunotherapy with anti-PD-1, anti-CTLA-4, and anti-LAG-3 immune checkpoint inhibitors. This review summarizes the biology and anatomic features of melanoma LMD, as well as the current therapeutic approaches.
Elevated Baseline Neutrophil Count Correlates with Worse Outcomes in Patients with Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer Treated with Chemoradiation
Authors: Meunier Sébastien , Frontczak Alexandre , Balssa Loïc , Blanc Julie , Benhmida Salim , Pernot Mandy , Quivrin Magali , Martin Etienne , Hammoud Yasser , Créhange Gilles , Boustani Jihane
Published: March 2023

Background: The role of inflammation in the development and prognosis of bladder cancer (BC) is now established. We evaluated the significance of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and neutrophil count (PNN) in patients with localized BC treated with chemoradiation. Methods: Clinical characteristics and baseline biological data were retrospectively collected. We tested the association between NLR, PNN, and overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). Results: One hundred and ninety-four patients were included. Median PNN was 4000.0/mm3 [1500.0–16,858.0] and median NLR was 2.6 [0.6–19.2]. In patients with NLR > 2.6, median OS and PFS were lower (OS: 25.5 vs. 58.4 months, p = 0.02; PFS: 14.1 vs. 26.7 months, p = 0.07). Patients with PNN > 4000/mm3 had significantly lower OS (21.8 vs. 70.1 months, p < 0.001) and PFS (13.7 vs. 38.8 months, p < 0.001). Contrary to NLR, PNN > 4000/mm3 was associated with shorter OS and PFS in multivariate analysis. Conclusions: Elevated PNN at baseline was associated with worse OS and PFS. NLR was not an independent prognostic factor.
Investigating the Performance of Lithium-Doped Bismuth Ferrite [BiFe1−xLixO3]-Graphene Nanocomposites as Cathode Catalyst for the Improved Power Output in Microbial Fuel Cells
Authors: Pema Tenzin , Kumar Ankit , Tripathi Babita , Pandit Soumya , Chauhan Sunil , Singh Satyendra , Dikshit Pritam Kumar , Mathuriya Abhilasha Singh , Gupta Piyush Kumar , Lahiri Dibyajit , Singh Ram Chandra , Anand Jigisha , Chaubey Kundan Kumar
Published: March 2023

In this study, multifunctional lithium-doped bismuth ferrite [BiFe1−xLixO3]-graphene nanocomposites (x = 0.00, 0.02, 0.04, 0.06) were synthesized by a sol-gel and ultrasonication assisted chemical reduction method. X-ray diffraction and FESEM electron microscopy techniques disclosed the nanocomposite phase and nanocrystalline nature of [BiFe1−xLixO3]-graphene nanocomposites. The FESEM images and the EDX elemental mapping revealed the characteristic integration of BiFe1−xLixO3 nanoparticles (with an average size of 95 nm) onto the 2D graphene layers. The Raman spectra of the [BiFe1−xLixO3]-graphene nanocomposites evidenced the BiFe1−xLixO3 and graphene nanostructures in the synthesized nanocomposites. The photocatalytic performances of the synthesized nanocomposites were assessed for ciprofloxacin (CIP) photooxidation under UV-visible light illumination. The photocatalytic efficiencies of [BiFe1−xLixO3]-graphene nanocomposites were measured to be 42%, 47%, 43%, and 10%, for x = 0.00, 0.02, 0.04, 0.06, respectively, within 120 min illumination, whereas the pure BiFeO3 nanoparticles were 21.0%. BiFe1−xLixO3 nanoparticles blended with graphene were explored as cathode material and tested in a microbial fuel cell (MFC). The linear sweep voltammetry (LSV) analysis showed that the high surface area of BiFeO3 was attributed to efficient oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activity. The increasing loading rates of (0.5–2.5 mg/cm2) [BiFe1−xLixO3]-graphene composite on the cathode surface showed increasing power output, with 2.5 and 2 mg/cm2 achieving the maximum volumetric power density of 8.2 W/m3 and 8.1 W/m3, respectively. The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) analysis showed that among the different loading rates used in this study, BiFeO3, with a loading rate of 2.5 mg/cm2, showed the lowest charge transfer resistance (Rct). The study results showed the potential of [BiFe1−xLixO3]-graphene composite as a cost-effective alternative for field-scale MFC applications.
Four-Component Synthesis of 9H-Pyrimido[4,5-b]indoles Using Ammonium Iodide as the Nitrogen Source
Authors: Chen Yufeng , Yang Ruitong , Xiao Fuhong , Li Tong , Mao Guojiang , Deng Guo-Jun
Published: March 2023

A four-component synthesis of 2-phenyl-9H-pyrimido[4,5-b]indoles was developed using indole-3-carboxaldehydes, aromatic aldehyde and ammonium iodide as the raw materials under transition-metal-free conditions. The pyrimidine ring was formed in one pot through [4 + 2] annulation reaction. Four C–N bonds were formed in one pot promoted by iodine and iodide additives. This work is highlighted by using two ammonium iodides as the sole nitrogen source.
Role of Ion-Exchange Resins in Hydrogenation Reactions
Authors: Badia Jordi H. , Soto Rodrigo , Ramírez Eliana , Bringué Roger , Fité Carles , Iborra Montserrat , Tejero Javier
Published: March 2023

The role of ion-exchange resins (IERs) as catalysts or catalysts supports, in hydrogenation reactions is revised and their potential application is presented. Both gel-type and macroreticular, basic or acid, IERs have been used for manifold metal-catalyzed hydrogenation processes in gas and liquid phase, including hydrogenation of alkenes, alkynes, carbonyls, arenes, nitroaromatics, and more. When available, qualitative relationships between the morphology and structure of resins and their performance as solid supports for metal catalysts are observed. Noble metals, such as Pt, Au, and Pd, and non-noble metals, such as Fe and Cu, have been introduced into IERs polymeric backbones by simple ion-exchange of a metal salt precursor with the resin, or by a combination of ion-exchange and other protocols, to obtain mono- and bimetallic catalysts supported on IERs. High yields towards target product, as well as the recyclability of metal-doped IERs, have been reported in the literature, with low metal leaching, which makes them highly interesting solid catalysts for a wide array of industrial applications. Multistep reaction processes, involving hydrogenation and hydration/cyclization/aldol condensation/etc., constitute promising applications due to the one-pot synthesis approach and relatively low temperatures required, which adds environmental interest in terms of process integration and optimization.
Nanomaterials in Catalysis Applications
Authors: Yentekakis Ioannis V. , Gournis Dimitrios P. , Karakassides Michael A.
Published: March 2023

The interconnected rapid development of nanomaterials science and advanced analysis and imaging techniques at the nano-level scale (some “operando”) fostered the parallel growth of heterogeneous catalysis and its evolution into “nano-catalysis” [...]
Cytological Diagnosis of Classic Myeloproliferative Neoplasms at the Age of Molecular Biology
Authors: Combaluzier Sophie , Quessada Julie , Abbou Norman , Arcani Robin , Tichadou Antoine , Gabert Jean , Costello Régis , Loosveld Marie , Venton Geoffroy , Berda-Haddad Yaël
Published: March 2023

Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN) are clonal hematopoietic stem cell-derived disorders characterized by uncontrolled proliferation of differentiated myeloid cells. Two main groups of MPN, BCR::ABL1-positive (Chronic Myeloid Leukemia) and BCR::ABL1-negative (Polycythemia Vera, Essential Thrombocytosis, Primary Myelofibrosis) are distinguished. For many years, cytomorphologic and histologic features were the only proof of MPN and attempted to distinguish the different entities of the subgroup BCR::ABL1-negative MPN. World Health Organization (WHO) classification of myeloid neoplasms evolves over the years and increasingly considers molecular abnormalities to prove the clonal hematopoiesis. In addition to morphological clues, the detection of JAK2, MPL and CALR mutations are considered driver events belonging to the major diagnostic criteria of BCR::ABL1-negative MPN. This highlights the preponderant place of molecular features in the MPN diagnosis. Moreover, the advent of next-generation sequencing (NGS) allowed the identification of additional somatic mutations involved in clonal hematopoiesis and playing a role in the prognosis of MPN. Nowadays, careful cytomorphology and molecular biology are inseparable and complementary to provide a specific diagnosis and to permit the best follow-up of these diseases.
Genomic Redistribution of Metal-Response Transcription Factor-1 (MTF-1) in Cadmium Resistant Cells
Authors: Wright Gregory M. , Black Joshua C.
Published: March 2023

(1) Background: Metal homeostasis is an important part of cellular programs and is disrupted when cells are exposed to carcinogenic heavy metals. Metal response is mediated by the metal response element transcription factor MTF-1. However, where MTF-1 binds and how that binding changes in response to heavy metals, such as cadmium, remains unknown. (2) Methods: To investigate the effects of prolonged cadmium exposure on the genomic distribution of MTF-1, we performed MTF-1 CUT&RUN, RNA-seq and ATAC-seq on control and cadmium-resistant cells. (3) Results: Changes in MTF-1 binding primarily occur distal to the transcription start sight. Newly occupied MTF-1 sites are enriched for FOS/JUN DNA binding motifs, while regions that lose MTF-1 binding in cadmium are enriched for the FOX transcription factor family member DNA binding sites. (4) Conclusions: Relocalization of MTF-1 to new genomic loci does not alter the accessibility of these locations. Our results support a model whereby MTF-1 is relocalized to accessible FOS/JUN-bound genomic locations in response to cadmium.
Treatment with Testosterone Therapy in Type 2 Diabetic Hypogonadal Adult Males: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Kumari Kajol , Kumar Rohan , Memon Areeba , Kumari Beena , Tehrim Moniba , Kumari Pooja , Shehryar Muhammad , Islam Hamza , Islam Rabia , Khatri Mahima , Kumar Satesh , Kumar Ajay
Published: March 2023

Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) has been used to treat hypogonadal males with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) for a long time, despite variable results. This meta-analysis examines TRT’s role in hypogonadal males with T2DM. The databases PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar were searched for relevant RCTs and observational studies. Estimated pooled mean differences (MDs) and relative risks with 95% confidence intervals were used to measure the effects of TRT (CIs). When compared to the placebo, TRT improves glycemic management by significantly reducing glycated hemoglobin (HBA1c) levels (WMD = −0.29 [−0.57, −0.02] p = 0.04; I2 = 89.8%). Additionally, it reduces the homeostatic model assessment levels of insulin resistance (WMD = −1.47 [−3.14, 0.19]; p = 0.08; I2 = 56.3%), fasting glucose (WMD = −0.30 [−0.75, 0.15]; p = 0.19; I2 = 84.4%), and fasting insulin (WMD = −2.95 [−8.64, 2.74]; however, these results are non-significant. On the other hand, HBA1c levels are significantly reduced with TRT; in addition, total testosterone levels significantly increase with testosterone replacement therapy (WMD = 4.51 [2.40, 6.61] p = 0.0001; I2 = 96.3%). Based on our results, we hypothesize that TRT can improve glycemic control and hormone levels, as well as lower total cholesterol, triglyceride, and LDL cholesterol levels while raising HDL cholesterol in hypogonadal type 2 diabetes patients. To this end, we recommend TRT for these patients in addition to standard diabetes care.
A Note on the Asymmetry of Oil Price Shocks
Authors: Baek Jungho
Published: March 2023

Studying the exchange rate effect of oil price shocks is one focus of a rapidly growing area of empirical research [...]