bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cytokine modulation by etanercept ameliorates metabolic syndrome and its related complications induced in rats administered a high-fat high-fructose diet
Authors: Hassan Noha F. , Hassan Azza H. , El-Ansary Mona R.
Published: November 2022

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of etanercept (ETA)—an anti-tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) monoclonal antibody—on metabolic disorders such as obesity, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and insulin resistance associated with the metabolic syndrome (MS). MS was induced in rats via high-fat high-fructose (HFHF) administration for 8 weeks. Rats were divided into three groups: negative control, HFHF model, and ETA-treated groups [HFHF + ETA (0.8 mg/kg/twice weekly, subcutaneously) administered in the last 4 weeks]. ETA effectively diminished the prominent features of MS via a significant reduction in the percent body weight gain along with the modulation of adipokine levels, resulting in a significant elevation of serum adiponectin consistent with TNF-α and serum leptin level normalization. Moreover, ETA enhanced dyslipidemia and the elevated blood pressure. ETA managed the prominent features of MS and its associated complications via the downregulation of the hepatic inflammatory pathway that induces nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)—from the expression of Toll-like receptor 4, nuclear factor kappa B, and TNF-α until that of transforming growth factor—in addition to significant improvements in glucose utilization, insulin sensitivity, and liver function parameter activity and histopathological examination. ETA was effective for the treatment of all prominent features of MS and its associated complications, such as type II diabetes mellitus and NASH.
Systematic review of economic evaluations for internet- and mobile-based interventions for mental health problems
Authors: Kählke Fanny , Buntrock Claudia , Smit Filip , Ebert David Daniel
Published: November 2022

In view of the staggering disease and economic burden of mental disorders, internet and mobile-based interventions (IMIs) targeting mental disorders have often been touted to be cost-effective; however, available evidence is inconclusive and outdated. This review aimed to provide an overview of the cost-effectiveness of IMIs for mental disorders and symptoms. A systematic search was conducted for trial-based economic evaluations published before 10th May 2021. Electronic databases (including MEDLINE, PsycINFO, CENTRAL, PSYNDEX, and NHS Economic Evaluations Database) were searched for randomized controlled trials examining IMIs targeting mental disorders and symptoms and conducting a full health economic evaluation. Methodological quality and risk of bias were assessed. Cost-effectiveness was assumed at or below £30,000 per quality-adjusted life year gained. Of the 4044 studies, 36 economic evaluations were reviewed. Guided IMIs were likely to be cost-effective in depression and anxiety. The quality of most evaluations was good, albeit with some risks of bias. Heterogeneity across studies was high because of factors such as different costing methods, design, comparison groups, and outcomes used. IMIs for anxiety and depression have potential to be cost-effective. However, more research is needed into unguided (preventive) IMIs with active control conditions (e.g., treatment as usual) and longer time horizon across a wider range of disorders.

Trial registration: PROSPERO Registration No. CRD42018093808.
Commercial photocatalyst changes the behavior of Formica pratensis and Formica polyctena
Authors: Czekes Zsolt , Bai Dóra , Vincze Judit , Gál Emese , Réthi-Nagy Zsuzsanna , Baia Lucian , Pap Zsolt
Published: November 2022

Commercial titania modified the behavior of ants by changing their cuticular hydrocarbon profile composition through photocatalytic oxidation.
An instrument-free visual quantitative detection method based on clock reaction: the detection of thrombin as an example
Authors: Wu Tianxiang , Li Xiao-Yuan
Published: November 2022

To the best of our knowledge, this work is the first report that uses the characteristic time of clock reaction as the readout signal in the instrument–free colorimetry for quantitative bioanalysis.
Highly efficient detection of ciprofloxacin with a self-powered sensing device based on a Au NPs/g-C3N4 micron tube and a 3D Ni-doped ZnIn2S4 thin film
Authors: Ouyang Xilian , Feng Chengyang , Zhu Xu , Liao Yibo , Fan Xinya , Zhou Zheping , Zhang Ziling , Tang Lin
Published: November 2022

A self-powered double-photoelectrode sensing device is proposed for the rapid quantification of ciprofloxacin.
Monitoring the risk ofLegionellainfection using a general Bayesian network updated from temporal measurements in agricultural irrigation with reclaimed wastewater
Authors: Massiot Gaspar , Courault Dominique , Jacob Pauline , Albert Isabelle
Published: November 2022

This paper presents a model for the risk assessment of pathogen inhalation from sprinkler irrigation using treated wastewater.
The modulatory effect of encapsulated bioactives and probiotics on gut microbiota: improving health status through functional food
Authors: Bauer-Estrada Katherine , Sandoval-Cuellar Camilo , Rojas-Muñoz Yesica , Quintanilla-Carvajal Maria Ximena
Published: November 2022

Gut microbiota can be a crucial factor of the host's health status. It could be improved by interaction with biocompounds and probiotics that can be encapsulated to survive GIT and food processing conditions allowing the modulation of this microbiota.
A PEG-lipid-free COVID-19 mRNA vaccine triggers robust immune responses in mice
Authors: Li Min , Huang Yixuan , Wu Jiacai , Li Sanpeng , Mei Miao , Chen Haixia , Wang Ning , Wu Weigang , Zhou Boping , Tan Xu , Li Bin
Published: November 2022

A novel PEG-lipid-free COVID-19 mRNA vaccine triggers robust immune responses in mice without causing obvious adverse effects.
A review of covetics – current understanding and future perspectives
Authors: Rana Devyesh , Lachmayr Kätchen , Lustig Steven Raymond
Published: November 2022

Graphene forms in liquid aluminum under ionizing current within a graphite crucible. Cations generated at the crucible anode, migrate through liquid aluminum, aggregate at the cathode, and form graphene–aluminum covetics.
Membranes prepared from graphene-based nanomaterials for water purification: a mini-review
Authors: Aizudin Marliyana , Alias Nur Hashimah , Ng Yun Xin Angel , Mahmod Fadzuli Muhammad Haikal , Ang Seng Chuan , Ng Yi Xun , Poolamuri Pottammel Rafeeque , Yang Fu , Ang Edison Huixiang
Published: November 2022

Here, we present the recent progress in the synthesis, property–performance correlation, and novel work on graphene-based nanomaterials (GBnMs) in water treatment technologies, specifically nanofiltration and solar desalination applications.
Promotion of methane storage capacity with metal–organic frameworks of high porosity
Authors: Zhang Xin , Lin Rui-Biao , Alothman Zeid A. , Alduhaish Osamah , Yildirim Taner , Zhou Wei , Li Jian-Rong , Chen Banglin
Published: November 2022

The effect of storage conditions on the optimal MOF pore volume and methane working capacity has been analyzed, and the benchmark NPF-200 was discovered.
Uracil-based additives for enabling robust interphases of high-voltage Li-ion batteries at elevated temperature by substituent effects
Authors: Yang Fu Jie , Bai Jing , Shao Bing , Liu Qing Feng , Mao Chong , Zhang Yuan Qing , Fan Xin Ming , Wang Pi Pi , Huang Jin
Published: November 2022

SEI films were formed on both electrodes of the NCM523‖graphite pouch cell by employing UC and TUC as bifunctional electrolyte additives, and further optimization of the substituent effects improving the high-voltage performances at 45 °C.
A very low lasing threshold of DABNA derivatives with DFB structures
Authors: Mamada Masashi , Maedera Satoshi , Oda Susumu , Nguyen Thanh Ba , Nakanotani Hajime , Hatakeyama Takuji , Adachi Chihaya
Published: November 2022

A low lasing threshold of up to 0.27 μJ cm−1 was achieved by using TADF materials. Advanced light amplification architectures composed of dual DABNA derivatives were also demonstrated.
Towards optimization of mechanical and microstructural performances of Fe-rich laterite geopolymer binders cured at room temperature by varying the activating solution
Authors: Kaze Rodrigue Cyriaque , Deutou Nemaleu Juvenal Giogetti , Kamseu Elie , Chinje Florence Uphie , Andreola Fernanda , Leonelli Cristina
Published: November 2022

Increasing the alkaline solution content positively affected compressive strength as the high formation geopolymer binder ensures better cohesion. 0.55 alkaline solution/calcined laterite appears as optimum exhibiting the highest mechanical properties and denser structure.
Waste acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) incorporated with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) for potential water filtration membrane
Authors: Nur'aini Syarifa , Zulfi Akmal , Arrosyid Bagas Haqi , Rafryanto Ande Fudja , Noviyanto Alfian , Hapidin Dian Ahmad , Feriyanto Dafit , Saputro Kurniawan Eko , Khairurrijal Khairurrijal , Rochman Nurul Taufiqu
Published: November 2022

Electrospun nanofiber membrane from acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) waste for water treatment application.
Expression of biocatalysts and their use in monomer synthesis for biodegradable polymers from acetone and CO2
Authors: Kita Yu , Fujii Ritsuko , Amao Yutaka
Published: November 2022

One-pot β-hydroxybutyrate synthesis from CO2 and acetone in an aqueous solution with acetone carboxylase and β-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase extracted from Rhodobacter capsulatus SB1003 by culturing in an acetone–bicarbonate medium was developed.
An ultralight lithiophilic framework with Faraday-shielded cages for stable lithium metal anodes
Authors: Xu Rui , Zhou Yuanyuan , Wang Fangzheng , Tang Hongan , Dong Qin , Wang Tao , Tong Cheng , Li Cunpu , Wei Zidong
Published: November 2022

An ultralight lithiophilic framework with Faraday-shielded cages (Li/NCG composite) is designed to realize stable lithium metal anodes.
Probing the nature of charge carriers in one-dimensional conjugated polymers: a review of the theoretical models, experimental trends, and thermoelectric applications
Authors: Liu Yang , Gao Shengtao , Zhang Xinyu , Xin John H. , Zhang Chao
Published: November 2022

Polarons can be generated by p- or n-doping in one-dimensional conjugated polymers as charge carriers, which can be transported two-dimensionally in both intra- and interchain manners upon thermal activation, showing unique thermoelectric properties.
Evolving DNA repair synthetic lethality targets in cancer
Authors: Kulkarni Sanat , Brownlie Juliette , Jeyapalan Jennie N. , Mongan Nigel P. , Rakha Emad A. , Madhusudan Srinivasan
Published: November 2022

DNA damage signaling response and repair (DDR) is a critical defense mechanism against genomic instability. Impaired DNA repair capacity is an important risk factor for cancer development. On the other hand, up-regulation of DDR mechanisms is a feature of cancer chemotherapy and radiotherapy resistance. Advances in our understanding of DDR and its complex role in cancer has led to several translational DNA repair-targeted investigations culminating in clinically viable precision oncology strategy using poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors in breast, ovarian, pancreatic, and prostate cancers. While PARP directed synthetic lethality has improved outcomes for many patients, the lack of sustained clinical response and the development of resistance pose significant clinical challenges. Therefore, the search for additional DDR-directed drug targets and novel synthetic lethality approaches is highly desirable and is an area of intense preclinical and clinical investigation. Here, we provide an overview of the mammalian DNA repair pathways and then focus on current state of PARP inhibitors (PARPi) and other emerging DNA repair inhibitors for synthetic lethality in cancer.
Synthesis and characterization of Inorganic Nanoparticles Luminophores for Environmental Remediation
Authors: Shaikh Abdul Aziz , Bera Souhardya , Paul Swastik , Mondal Shibsankar , Saha Ankit , Roy Subhasis
Published: November 2022

Inorganic Nanoparticle Luminophores have been the focus of ongoing research because of their special characteristics as they approach nanoscale from bulk nature. Besides, their application remains highly diverse compared to bulk zero-valent metals. In this research work, facile and economical borohydride reduction of ferric chloride was undertaken to study the kinetics of phenol photodegradation under simulated sunlight conditions. Further, photoluminescence study was undertaken to calculate the lowest energy transition of our synthesized sample. The synthesized NPs were analyzed using XRD. SEM and TEM data showed the presence of an interconnected network of nanospheresof uniform morphology in the particle range of 20–60 nm, with formation of long-chain of aggregates-characteristic of mixed valent iron oxides, which predominates on a rapidly oxidizing nZVI particle system. The photodegradation studies showed a promising result, degrading nearly the complete concentration of phenol within 24 hours. PL study reported the lowest energy transition at 1.72 eV which alternatively confirms its application as a photocatalyst in diverse fields of wastewater remediation.
Meckel's Diverticulum Mimicking Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Kanungo Adyasha , Shenoy Swathi , D'Cunha Aureen , Sindgikar Seema Pavaman
Published: November 2022

Intermittent abdominal pain is the most common gastrointestinal (GI) complaint in the pediatric age group. When basic investigations and sonograms do not give etiological basis, functional GI disorders are diagnosed. Meckel's diverticulum (MD), being the common GI surgical condition, can be missed in absence of classical symptoms. Clinical presentation varies based on the size, location, and presence of ectopic gastric mucosa. We report a case of an adolescent female with MD presenting as chronic abdominal pain. Abdominal ultrasonogram was normal. Abnormal fecal calprotectin level and colonoscopy directed for a suspicion of inflammatory bowel disease. Persistence of symptoms with increasing severity prompted a relook into the diagnosis. The presence of intussusception on abdominal scan during one of the painful episodes warranted emergency exploratory laparotomy. Intraoperatively, the lead point for intussusception was identified as MD, which was resected. Postoperative period was uneventful. There are no abdominal symptoms since a year during the follow-up period.
Lived Experiences of Delirium in Critically Ill Children: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Moradi Jasmin , Mikhail Mirriam , Lee Laurie A. , Traube Chani , Sarti Aimee J. , Choong Karen
Published: November 2022

The aim of this study was to understand the lived experiences of delirium in critically ill children. We conducted phenomenological qualitative interviews with critically ill pediatric survivors aged 0 to 18 years who had experienced delirium, along with their family caregivers and health care providers, from pediatric intensive care units in two tertiary care children's hospitals in Canada. Cases were identified if they had a Cornell Assessment of Pediatric Delirium (CAPD) score of ≥ 9 for at least 48 hours. Thirteen interviews were conducted, representing 10 index patients with delirium (age range: 7 weeks to 17 years). Participants shared experiences that were divided into themes of delirium symptoms, the impact of delirium, and their experience with the care of delirium. Within each theme, subthemes were identified. Symptoms of delirium included hallucinations, fluctuating symptoms, and lack of eye contact. Children were often described as “not himself/herself.” Delirium had long-lasting impact on patients; memories remained prominent even after the hospital stay. Family members and health care providers often felt helpless and ill-prepared to manage delirium. The delirium experience had significant impact on loved ones, causing persistent and vicarious suffering after the critical illness course. Family members and health care providers prioritized nonpharmacological strategies, family presence, and education as key strategies for delirium management. The lived experience of delirium in both infants and older children is physically, psychologically, and emotionally distressing. Given the traumatic long-term consequences, there is an urgent need to target delirium education, management, and prevention to improve long-term outcomes in PICU survivors and their families.

Trial Registration number: NCT04168515.
Flames of Aegean: the ec(h)o screams of nature: A 3d printed luminaire series according to sustainability product and lighting design principles
Authors: Polydouli Effie , Korakidou Veroniki
Published: November 2022

This paper documents the design process for the creation of a 3d printed luminaire series based on the principles of sustainable product and lighting design. In order to formulate the elements of what sustainable luminaire design should be, the lighting designer, made a recursion contemporary post-industrial design approaches, and concluded to state-of-the-art current trends in sustainable product and lighting design standards, technologies and materials. As a result of this interesting study of the principles of sustainable product and lighting design, this paper presents the design process step-by-step, as well as the sustainability design standards, which led to the final outcome, a series of original lighting fixtures entitled: Flames of Aegean.
Implementing a Digital Solution for Architectural Daylight Analysis in BIM Based Projects by developing a new plugin
Authors: Miri Majid , Ashtari Elmira
Published: November 2022

To achieve a successful architectural project, it is essential for architects to truly understand and collaborate with other designers and engineers during the whole project. Regarding daylight analysis, what architects decide about the fenestration types, sizes, and their placements, interior layout design, interior or exterior materials, and finally the outer shape of the buildings may change the quantity and quality of natural light in the interiors. Moreover, such decisions about room configurations, fenestration, and materials can also directly or indirectly affect thermal comfort which is needed to be checked and confirmed by energy experts in the project. In this paper, a newly developed digital solution, and a new plugin called AftabRad is introduced. Its main goal is to export the 3D model from the BIM Modeling software to Radiance, as its daylight simulation core, and present the results back to the BIM software. This plugin can help daylight specialists to be fully or partially involved in any projects to assist architects or urban designers to easily calculate different types of static or dynamic daylight metrics by themselves. However, daylight specialists can do daylight calculations in the final stage or the project if it is needed. In such a project, since most of the daylight analyses for different types of alternatives can be done by architects, and regarding the nature of BIM-based project, by having direct dialogs with energy experts, the probability of achieving a well-daylit space, being thermally and visually comfortable, and fulfilling the daylight requirements can be much higher in comparison with doing daylight simulation just at the end of a project.
Light Sketching for Ecology: A cooperative design tool for balancing human experience and ecological impact
Authors: Ross Philip R , Rutten Niek
Published: November 2022

The impact of artificial light at night on ecology is an urgent and continuous consideration in lighting design. People’s needs and wishes for light in urban areas often conflict with demands for minimising ecological impact. For example, in city parks people may desire light that offers a pleasant experience of nature and the feeling of safety, while the fauna may thrive best with no light at all. How to overcome this seemingly unresolvable conflict, especially in hybrid environments like city parks? This paper presents Light Sketching for Ecology, a cooperative lighting design tool to help balance lighting demands from the human experience side with demands for minimising ecological impact. Results from a pilot study show the potential of Light Sketching for Ecology to create a win-win situation in which park users are more positive about the park lighting while the lighting’s ecological impact is significantly lowered.
Identification of Arsenic Accumulator from Traditional Upland Rice Genotypes: A Field Survey in Interior Division, North Borneo
Authors: Hamdan D D M , Seludin J , Musa F , Sabullah M K , Rahim S A
Published: November 2022

The Pan Borneo Highway provide traditional farmers better access to modern agronomic products that changes the rice agricultural management practices in rural areas. This study provides baseline data on selected heavy metal (As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Ni, Pb, Zn) concentration in rice and rhizosphere soil of four traditional rice landraces (Lantai, Tesik, Kembulaung & Sepulut) that was cultivated by the Dusun Minokok ethnic group residing in the small district of Sook, Interior Division, North Borneo. Heavy metals in soils and rice were determined by Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES). The soil pH value for all rice landraces except Lantai had increased in between the rice life cycle at the vegetative and reproductive phase. Certain heavy metals bioavailability had decreased at reproductive phase when soil pH had increased. Cd and Cr was not detected in any rice landraces grains. None of the heavy metals concentration for all rice landraces had exceed the maximum allowable limit of Malaysia Food Regulation 1985. However, arsenic was efficiently mobile from root to grain of the late-maturing rice landraces’ Kembulaung and Sepulut. The Kembulaung and Sepulut landrace is an accumulator of arsenic with Enrichment Factor value more than 11 and 2 respectively. Increase of As phytoavailability in this cultivation area might pose health hazard if not manage sustainably.
Digital transformation of the laboratories
Authors: Comeaga Miruna Lucretia
Published: November 2022

The scientific world is evolving; laboratory processes that were once entirely manual are being optimized through automation and data connectivity. While documents previously had to be printed, signed, and physically stored in boxes, the recent developments of data management systems and software platforms allow scientists to sign and store electronic records in a secure and future-proof format. Advanced analytics solutions, such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, are being used to connect, collate and analyse data from different facilities around the globe. Digital transformation is occurring in many aspects of the everyday life, from the ability to control household appliances through apps, to monitoring our health through wearable devices. But it is not just happening at home: the fourth industrial revolution is already in full expansion and digital technologies connect automated processes and equipment, monitor and control supply chains and work alongside robots programmed to leverage artificial intelligence (AI). The decision to digitally transform the laboratory is not without its challenges. New methodologies need to be evaluated and approved by the relevant regulatory body. The diverse scope of applications around the world makes it difficult for organizations looking to adopt such capabilities, despite the potential benefits. In addition to exploring the benefits and challenges of digital transformation, this article will show how new and practical solutions can be integrated to increase laboratory productivity and accelerate scientific research.
Research concerning ultrasonic chains with torsional vibrations for different industrial applications
Authors: Ghiculescu D , Cretu R , Alupei O
Published: November 2022

The paper deals with design, modelling, and testing of an ultrasonic (US) chain with torsional vibrations that includes a tool at its end and could be used for different industrial applications such conventional and nonconventional machining of revolution, helicoidal, and curved surfaces or various types of materials. The US chain includes a horn with helicoidal channel whose profile was studied aiming at growing the amplification of amplitude of the tool, positioned in an antinode point. After the shape design of US horn, finite element analysis was applied to simulate the torsional vibrations of the horn and integrated tool with highest amplitude. Some experiments were made at electrical discharge machining (EDM) aided by torsional ultrasonic vibrations. The results emphasized the technological parameters improvement like machining rate increase and surface roughness decrease, compared to usual EDM without US.
Prescribed precision for medical products obtained with additive manufacturing technologies
Authors: Ionescu N , Ulmeanu M E , Doicin C V , Ionescu C , Spânu P
Published: November 2022

The paper highlights the importance of corelating the function of a medical product, with its’ design and manufacture stages within the global product design and development process. Dimensional accuracy, macro-geometric and micro-geometric shape accuracy, relative surface position accuracy and other prescribed characteristics of medical products should take into consideration a variety of factors, such as custom requirements, regulated by the product functions. In an ideal scenario, with unlimited resources, prescribed characteristics dictate the selection of the manufacturing technology and equipment. Nonetheless, in most cases the design stage takes into consideration capabilities of available technology, correlated with bespoke requirements. In this context, the authors propose a clear distinction between precision, accuracy, repeatability, and resolution, as to properly address each issue in the lifecycle of a medical product manufactured using additive technologies. Using a real application for an upper limb prosthesis, the nominal position precision is prescribed, based on size-dependent geometric tolerances, for a cylindrical surface in relation to three reference surfaces, with the application of the maximum and minimum material principles.
Researches on the geometrical and dimensional accuracy for complex thin parts made of electrical steel by abrasive waterjet machining
Authors: Mihail Laurenţiu-Aurel , Filip Alexandru , Mija Adrian
Published: November 2022

The electrical steel laminations which compose the rotor and stator core for electrical motors have complex 2D shapes. When these parts require small batches of production, they can be efficiently manufactured only by flexible methods. The paper presents the results of using abrasive waterjet machining (AWJ) to obtain such parts within the frame of a research project with EU funding. The main objective of the research was the analysis of geometrical and dimensional accuracy of the parts which will confirm that AWJ is a suitable process in this case. The parts were measured on an optical digital profilometer. The measurement process was not simple because the parts are relatively large and cannot be focused only by one shot by the camera. Also, another important issue were the profile edges inconsistencies due to the burrs. Those problems and the limitations of the measurement technology did not allow the automation of measurement. The results and discussions proved that AWJ can be used successfully for manufacturing such parts and the machining process is traceable.
Aspects Regarding the Modelling and Design of 3D-printed Bending Soft Pneumatic Actuators
Authors: Rad C , Hancu O , Lapusan C
Published: November 2022

Soft robotics has the potential to revolutionize our society and industries due to its increased adaptability and soft interaction with environment. In this context, the paper presents the results of finite element modelling and design of two 3D-printed bending soft pneumatic actuators made from NinjaFlex® flexible filament. Geometrical parameters of the actuators were chosen based on the recommendations from the literature and NinjaFlex® material elastic properties were modelled using Ogden hyperelastic model. The simulation was implemented in ANSYS® Workbench software and both designs were compared and analysed in terms of bending angle performance and equivalent (von-Mises) stresses for an input pressure of 0.1÷0.5 MPa with an increment of 0.1 MPa. The obtained simulation results can be used as a design guideline for 3D-printed bending soft pneumatic actuators made from flexible thermoplastic polyurethanes.
Criteria for analyzing online traffic encountered in web and mobile applications in order to model an automated application testing system
Authors: Duta C , Carutasu N , Stanica I , Georgian A
Published: November 2022

Over time, the evolution of technology has left its mark on our lives and has highlighted its need for and importance of all areas of activity, both social and economic. There is a global increase in the trend of automation of work processes and the use of software products more and more often in any type of activity to optimize and increase work capacity. The growth of e-commerce is one of the segments favored by the emergence and evolution of technology, allowing us to always be connected to market demand and supply. In order to improve e-commerce, we need to make sure that the software available to users is adjusted to their needs. In this paper, we propose a technique for analyzing the necessary criteria to develop an automatic testing system for web and mobile applications based on the analysis of user behavior and reports extracted from recorded online traffic. By trying to reproduce the real behavior of users in the testing process it can enhance the risk management and improve the quality of the delivered product.
A functional design analysis of a robotic-guided brachytherapy instrument
Authors: Tucan Paul , Graur Florin , Caprariu Andrei , Radu Corina , Burz Alin , Vaida Calin , Hajjar Nadim Al , Antal Tiberiu , Pisla Doina
Published: November 2022

The paper presents the functional design analysis-based improvements of a robotic guided medical instrument for brachytherapy. The initial design of the medical instrument is analyzed, and its weaknesses are identified and analyzed from several points of view (functionality, ergonomics and materials). The design analysis reveals the specific improvements for the instrument components to achieve a better functionality of the medical instrument and increase the accuracy and safety of the robotic-assisted medical procedure.
Microstructure, mechanical properties and tear toughness of laser-welded DP980 dual phase steel
Authors: Huang Jiajin , Li Shengci , Ren Yupeng , Zhang Zhiqian , Li Dehua
Published: November 2022

In this study, DP980 steel sheets were laser welded with a laser power of 4.5 kW and a welding speed of 4.5 m min−1. The microstructural evolution and mechanical properties of the welded joint and the effect of notch location on tear toughness were evaluated. Results show that the fusion zone (FZ) was composed of lath martensite, the hardness (276 HV) of the heat-affected zone (HAZ) was lower than that of the base metal (305 HV) resulting from martensite tempering. The welded specimens failed at the soft HAZ with a 98.4% joint efficiency during the tensile test, and the ultimate tensile strength of the as-recieved steel and welded joint was 1026 MPa and 1010 MPa, respectively. The tear energy of the FZ and HAZ was lower than DP980 base metal (BM). Thus, it is considered that the fracture toughness of the joint decreased after welding. The crack growth path of the FZ gradually deviated toward the HAZ during tearing due to the asymmetrical plastic zone at the crack tip. Compared with the ductile fracture of the base metal, the significant decrease in the fracture toughness of the welded joint is due to the weak deformation resistance of tempered martensite.
Quantum capsule networks
Authors: Liu Zidu , Shen Pei-Xin , Li Weikang , Duan L-M , Deng Dong-Ling
Published: November 2022

Capsule networks (CapsNets), which incorporate the paradigms of connectionism and symbolism, have brought fresh insights into artificial intelligence (AI). The capsule, as the building block of CapsNets, is a group of neurons represented by a vector to encode different features of an entity. The information is extracted hierarchically through capsule layers via routing algorithms. Here, we introduce a quantum capsule network (dubbed QCapsNet) together with an efficient quantum dynamic routing algorithm. To benchmark the performance of the QCapsNet, we carry out extensive numerical simulations on the classification of handwritten digits and symmetry-protected topological phases, and show that the QCapsNet can achieve an enhanced accuracy and outperform conventional quantum classifiers evidently. We further unpack the output capsule state and find that a particular subspace may correspond to a human-understandable feature of the input data, which indicates the potential explainability of such networks. Our work reveals an intriguing prospect of QCapsNets in quantum machine learning, which may provide a valuable guide towards explainable quantum AI.
HCDT: an integrated highly confident drug–target resource
Authors: Chen Jiaqi , Chen Zhengxin , Chen Rufei , Feng Dehua , Li Tianyi , Han Huirui , Bi Xiaoman , Wang Zhenzhen , Li Kongning , Li Yongsheng , Li Xia , Wang Limei , Li Jin
Published: November 2022

Drug–target association plays an important role in drug discovery, drug repositioning, drug synergy prediction, etc. Currently, a lot of drug-related databases, such as DrugBank and BindingDB, have emerged. However, these databases are separate, incomplete and non-uniform with different criteria. Here, we integrated eight drug-related databases; collected, filtered and supplemented drugs, target genes and experimentally validated (highly confident) associations and built a highly confident drug–target (HCDT: http://hainmu-biobigdata.com/hcdt) database. HCDT database includes 500 681 HCDT associations between 299 458 drugs and 5618 target genes. Compared to individual databases, HCDT database contains 1.1 to 254.2 times drugs, 1.8–5.5 times target genes and 1.4–27.7 times drug–target associations. It is normative, publicly available and easy for searching, browsing and downloading. Together with multi-omics data, it will be a good resource in analyzing the drug functional mechanism, mining drug-related biological pathways, predicting drug synergy, etc.

Database URL: http://hainmu-biobigdata.com/hcdt
Genome assembly and transcriptomic analyses of the repeatedly rejuvenating jellyfish Turritopsis dohrnii
Authors: Hasegawa Yoshinori , Watanabe Takashi , Otsuka Reo , Toné Shigenobu , Kubota Shin , Hirakawa Hideki
Published: November 2022

Only two hydromedusan species, Turritopsis dohrnii and T. sp., have exhibited experimental multiple-repeat life cycle reversion in the laboratory, which can be artificially induced by various means such as incubation with CsCl, heat shock, and mechanical damage with needles. In the present study, we constructed a genome assembly of T. dohrnii using Pacific Biosciences long-reads and Illumina short-reads, for which the genome DNA was extracted from 1,500 young medusae originated from a single clone. The total length of the draft genome sequence of T. dohrnii was 435.9 Mb (N50 length 747.2 kb). We identified 23,314 high-confidence genes and found the characteristics of RNA expression amongst developmental stages. Our genome assembly and transcriptome data provide a key model system resource that will be useful for understanding cyclical rejuvenation.
The effect of a Prasugrel- vs. a Ticagrelor-based strategy on total ischaemic and bleeding events in patients with acute coronary syndromes
Authors: Aytekin Alp , Coughlan J J , Ndrepepa Gjin , Cassese Salvatore , Lahu Shqipdona , Kufner Sebastian , Mayer Katharina , Xhepa Erion , Gewalt Senta , Joner Michael , Hapfelmeier Alexander , Angiolillo Dominick J , Menichelli Maurizio , Richardt Gert , Neumann Franz J , Schunkert Heribert , Kastrati Adnan
Published: November 2022

Aims

The effect of a prasugrel vs. a ticagrelor based strategy on total (including both first and recurrent) ischaemic and bleeding events in patients with acute coronary syndromes (ACS) has not been evaluated. The aim of this analysis was to investigate the treatment effect of a prasugrel vs. a ticagrelor based strategy in patients with ACS undergoing an invasive management strategy when both first and recurrent non-fatal ischaemic and bleeding events are taken into account.

Methods and results

This is a post-hoc analysis of the ISAR-REACT 5 randomized control trial, including all 4018 patients in the trial. The main clinical endpoints of interest included ischaemic events [myocardial infarction (MI) and stroke] and bleeding events [Bleeding Academic Research Consortium (BARC) type 3 to 5 bleeding]. An additional endpoint of interest was definite/probable stent thrombosis. The effect of the prasugrel vs. ticagrelor based strategies on these endpoints was evaluated on both time-to-first event and total events analyses. Patients in the prasugrel group had a lower risk of MI in comparison to the ticagrelor group on both time-to-first event [hazard ratio (HR) = 0.61; 95% confidence interval 0.44–0.85] and total events [HR = 0.62 (0.45–0.86)] analysis. The risk of BARC type 3 to 5 bleeding was comparable between the prasugrel and ticagrelor groups on both time-to-first event [HR = 0.96 (0.75–1.25)] and total events [HR = 0.99 (0.76–1.31)] analysis.

Conclusion

A prasugrel based strategy was associated with a reduction in total MI events in comparison to a ticagrelor based strategy in patients with ACS undergoing invasive assessment. Total BARC type 3 to 5 bleeding events were comparable between the two groups. Given the importance of this topic, future studies to confirm these findings would be welcome.

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01944800
In Vitro Dissolution Profile of Antihypertensive Mixture: Comparison Between Multivariate Methods and Statistical and Graphical Representation of Different Univariate Spectrophotometric Data
Authors: Magdy Ragaa , Hemdan Ahmed , Farouk Maha , Fares Nermine V
Published: November 2022

Background

Triplixam® is a new antihypertensive drug combination consisting of perindopril, amlodipine, and indapamide, which have a synergistic mechanism of action in combination with each other.

Objective

Comparative study of different spectrophotometric approaches used for the simultaneous determination of perindopril, indapamide, and amlodipine in bulk powder and in dosage form Triplixam.

Method

The methods include univariate and multivariate spectrophotometric methods depending on either mathematical calculation or graphical representation of data. For the univariate methods: perindopril was resolved from other components using constant multiplication followed by spectrum subtraction resolution technique, and then two base point, AUC, constant value, and concentration value (CNV) methods were applied. For both amlodipine and indapamide: constant multiplication resolution technique was used, and then constant value and CNV methods were applied. CNV depends on graphical representation of data rather than statistical data. PLS and PCR chemometric assisted spectrophotometric techniques were also applied. The proposed methods are considered a green alternative to the reported methods as the greenness of the proposed methods was evaluated qualitatively and quantitatively by four green analytical evaluation tools.

Results

The methods were applied for the analysis of the mixture in the pharmaceutical dosage form Triplixam and in vitro release at intestinal pH (7.4) using a USP dissolution tester.

Conclusions

The proposed green analytical methods are considered to be greener than the reported methods and simpler, so they could be used as an alternative for routine analysis of the mixture in quality control laboratories for the reason of their accurate results beside minimum manipulation steps that reduced the error and time required of the analysis with no harmful effect on analyst health as well as the environment.

Highlights

The study was the first in vitro dissolution profiling of perindopril, amlodipine, and indapamide. The developed methods were excellent green methods without compromising the analytical criteria.
Functional engineering strategies of 3D printed implants for hard tissue replacement
Authors: Chen Cen , Huang Bo , Liu Yi , Liu Fan , Lee In-Seop
Published: November 2022

Three-dimensional printing technology with the rapid development of printing materials are widely recognized as a promising way to fabricate bioartificial bone tissues. In consideration of the disadvantages of bone substitutes, including poor mechanical properties, lack of vascularization and insufficient osteointegration, functional modification strategies can provide multiple functions and desired characteristics of printing materials, enhance their physicochemical and biological properties in bone tissue engineering. Thus, this review focuses on the advances of functional engineering strategies for 3D printed biomaterials in hard tissue replacement. It is structured as introducing 3D printing technologies, properties of printing materials (metals, ceramics and polymers) and typical functional engineering strategies utilized in the application of bone, cartilage and joint regeneration.
Fructobacillus apis sp. nov., isolated from the gut of honeybee (Apis mellifera)
Authors: Chen Yi-sheng , Wang Li-Ting , Lin Shih-Ting , Lee Yun-Shien , Chang Yu-Chung , Wu Hui-Chung , Liao Chia-Yu , Chen Wei-Hua , Deng Jin-Nan , Wang Yu-Hsuan
Published: November 2022

A Gram-positive, facultatively anaerobic, catalase-negative, fructose-dependent strain (W13T) was isolated from the gut of honeybee (Apis mellifera). Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequencing indicated that strain W13T represents a distinct line of descent within the genus

Fructobacillus

, with the closest neighbours being

Fructobacillus broussonetiae

BCRC 81240T (98.9 % sequence similarity) and

Fructobacillus durionis

DSM 19113T (96.8 % sequence similarity). Comparative sequencing of the additional phylogenetic markers rpoC and recA confirmed the 16S rRNA gene tree topology. The complete genome of strain W13T consisted of 1 292 712 bp with a G+C content of 48.3 mol%. Pairwise comparisons of the average nucleotide identity values and digital DNA–DNA hybridization values between the genomes of W13T and its close phylogenetic neighbours,

F. broussonetiae

BCRC 81240T and

F. durionis

DSM 19113T, resulted in 76.2–84.1 % and 20.2–27.6 %, respectively. The main cellular fatty acids of strain W13T were C16 : 0, C18 : 1 
ω9c and C18 : 1 
ω7c. Thus, we propose a novel species within the genus

Fructobacillus

, with the name Fructobacillus apis sp. nov. and the type strain is W13T (= NBRC 115637T=BCRC 81365T).
Amyloid Beta Peptides Inhibit Glucose Transport at the Blood-brain Barrier by Disrupting Insulin-Akt Pathway in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Wang Lushan , Curran Geoffry L. , Min Paul H. , Li Ling , Lowe Val J. , Kandimalla Karunya K.
Published: November 2022

Disruptions in glucose uptake and metabolism in the brain are implicated in metabolic disorders and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Toxic soluble amyloid-beta (sAß) peptides accumulating in the brain and plasma of AD patients were suggested to promote blood-brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction, brain hypometabolism, and cognitive decline. Exposure to sAß peptides is reported to interfere with glucose metabolism in the brain parenchyma, although their effects on the BBB have not been fully characterized. Our data showed that the brain uptake of glucose surrogate, [18F]-fluorodeoxyglucose (18FDG), was reduced significantly in APP/PS1 transgenic mice (overproduce Aß) compared to wild-type (WT) mice. In addition, the influx rate of18FDG was also decreased in both Aß40 and Aß42 pre-infused mice compared to control mice. Glucose is primarily delivered from blood into the brain via glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1). The confocal microscopy experiment showed that Aß40 and Aß42 peptides significantly decreased GLUT1 expression in polarized human cerebral microvascular endothelial cell (hCMEC/D3) monolayers. Insulin-AKT pathway has been observed to induce glucose uptake via regulating the expression of TXNIP, the only α-arrestin protein known to bind to thioredoxin. We found that Aß40 and Aß42 peptides decreased p-AKT and increased TXNIP expression in the hCMEC/D3 cell monolayers. MK2206, a kinase inhibitor of AKT, was used to confirm that inhibition of insulin/AKT pathway reduced GLUT1 expression in an insulin-independent manner in the hCMEC/D3 cell monolayers. These results suggest that inhibitory effects of sAß on GLUT1 expression are mediated by inhibition of the insulin/AKT pathway. The role of TXNIP on endothelial GLUT1 expression was investigated using resveratrol, which has been reported to downregulate TXNIP overexpression. Consistently, resveratrol treatment led to a significant increase in GLUT1 expression in the hCMEC/D3 cell monolayers. Furthermore, by co-incubation of resveratrol and sAß peptides in hCMEC/D3 cell monolayers, we found that resveratrol rectified the aberrant TXNIP expression caused by sAß peptides. Together, these findings provide novel evidence that toxic sAß peptide exposure inhibits glucose transport at the BBB by decreasing GLUT1 expression via the insulin/Akt/TXNIP axis.