bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neutrophil Extracellular Traps Correlate with Tumor Necrosis and Size in Human Malignant Melanoma Metastases
Authors: Weide Lennard Marten , Schedel Fiona , Weishaupt Carsten
Published: June 2023

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are web-like structures released by neutrophils that kill invading microorganisms. However, NETs also promote tumor growth and impair the functionality of T-cells in cancer. Therefore, this study aimed at characterizing NET distribution within human melanoma metastases (n = 81 of 60 patients) by immunofluorescence staining for neutrophils (CD15) and NETs (H3Cit) in order to identify targets for NET-directed therapies. The results show that 49.3% of the metastases contained neutrophils (n = 40) and 30.8% (n = 25) contained NETs, 68% of them very densely infiltrated. A total of 75% of CD15-positive neutrophils and 96% of NET-containing metastases were necrotic while metastases without neutrophil infiltration were predominantly non-necrotic. A higher amount of NETs correlated significantly with greater tumor size. Consistently, all metastases with a cross-sectional area greater than 2.1 cm2 contained neutrophils. Analysis of metastasis from different sites revealed NETs to be present in skin, lymph node, lung and liver metastases. Taken together, our study was the first to observe NET infiltration in a larger cohort of human melanoma metastases. These results set the stage for further research regarding NET-directed therapies in metastatic melanoma.
A Truncated 14-Amino-Acid Myelin Protein-Zero-Targeting Peptide for Fluorescence-Guided Nerve-Preserving Surgery
Authors: Berehova Nataliia , van Meerbeek Maarten P. , Azargoshasb Samaneh , van Willigen Danny M. , Slof Leon J. , Navaei Lavasani Saaedeh , van Oosterom Matthias N. , van Leeuwen Fijs W. B. , Buckle Tessa
Published: June 2023

Background: The occurrence of accidental nerve damage during surgery and the increasing application of image guidance during head-and-neck surgery have highlighted the need for molecular targeted nerve-sparing interventions. The implementation of such interventions relies on the availability of nerve-specific tracers. In this paper, we describe the development of a truncated peptide that has an optimized affinity for protein zero (P0), the most abundant protein in myelin. Methods and Materials: Further C- and N-terminal truncation was performed on the lead peptide Cy5-P0101–125. The resulting nine Cy5-labelled peptides were characterized based on their photophysical properties, P0 affinity, and in vitro staining. These characterizations were combined with evaluation of the crystal structure of P0, which resulted in the selection of the optimized tracer Cy5-P0112–125. A near-infrared Cy7-functionalized derivative (Cy7-P0112–125) was used to perform an initial evaluation of fluorescence-guided surgery in a porcine model. Results: Methodological truncation of the 26-amino-acid lead compound Cy5-P0101–125 resulted in a size reduction of 53.8% for the optimized peptide Cy5-P0112–125. The peptide design and the 1.5-fold affinity gain obtained after truncation could be linked to interactions observed in the crystal structure of the extracellular portion of P0. The near-infrared analogue Cy7-P0112–125 supported nerve illumination during fluorescence-guided surgery in the head-and-neck region in a porcine model. Conclusions: Methodological truncation yielded a second-generation P0-specific peptide. Initial surgical evaluation suggests that the peptide can support molecular targeted nerve imaging.
Melatonin: Facts, Extrapolations and Clinical Trials
Authors: Boutin J. A. , Kennaway D. J. , Jockers R.
Published: June 2023

Melatonin is a fascinating molecule that has captured the imagination of many scientists since its discovery in 1958. In recent times, the focus has changed from investigating its natural role as a transducer of biological time for physiological systems to hypothesized roles in virtually all clinical conditions. This goes along with the appearance of extensive literature claiming the (generally) positive benefits of high doses of melatonin in animal models and various clinical situations that would not be receptor-mediated. Based on the assumption that melatonin is safe, high doses have been administered to patients, including the elderly and children, in clinical trials. In this review, we critically review the corresponding literature, including the hypotheses that melatonin acts as a scavenger molecule, in particular in mitochondria, by trying not only to contextualize these interests but also by attempting to separate the wheat from the chaff (or the wishful thinking from the facts). We conclude that most claims remain hypotheses and that the experimental evidence used to promote them is limited and sometimes flawed. Our review will hopefully encourage clinical researchers to reflect on what melatonin can and cannot do and help move the field forward on a solid basis.
Reactivity of Coproheme Decarboxylase with Monovinyl, Monopropionate Deuteroheme
Authors: Patil Gaurav , Michlits Hanna , Furtmüller Paul G. , Hofbauer Stefan
Published: June 2023

Coproheme decarboxylases (ChdCs) are terminal enzymes of the coproporphyrin-dependent heme biosynthetic pathway. In this reaction, two propionate groups are cleaved from the redox-active iron-containing substrate, coproheme, to form vinyl groups of the heme b product. The two decarboxylation reactions proceed sequentially, and a redox-active three-propionate porphyrin, called monovinyl, monopropionate deuteroheme (MMD), is transiently formed as an intermediate. While the reaction mechanism for the first part of the redox reaction, which is initiated by hydrogen peroxide, has been elucidated in some detail, the second part of this reaction, starting from MMD, has not been studied. Here, we report the optimization of enzymatic MMD production by ChdC and purification by reversed-phase chromatography. With the obtained MMD, we were able to study the second part of heme b formation by actinobacterial ChdC from Corynebacterium diphtheriae, starting with Compound I formation upon the addition of hydrogen peroxide. The results indicate that the second part of the decarboxylation reaction is analogous to the first part, although somewhat slower, which is explained by differences in the active site architecture and its H-bonding network. The results are discussed in terms of known kinetic and structural data and help to fill some mechanistic gaps in the overall reaction catalyzed by ChdCs.
Solving the Min-Max Clustered Traveling Salesmen Problem Based on Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Bao Xiaoguang , Wang Guojun , Xu Lei , Wang Zhaocai
Published: June 2023

The min-max clustered traveling salesmen problem (MMCTSP) is a generalized variant of the classical traveling salesman problem (TSP). In this problem, the vertices of the graph are partitioned into a given number of clusters and we are asked to find a collection of tours to visit all the vertices with the constraint that the vertices of each cluster are visited consecutively. The objective of the problem is to minimize the weight of the maximum weight tour. For this problem, a two-stage solution method based on a genetic algorithm is designed according to the problem characteristics. The first stage is to determine the visiting order of the vertices within each cluster, by abstracting a TSP from the corresponding cluster and applying a genetic algorithm to solve it. The second stage is to determine the assignment of clusters to salesmen and the visiting order of the assigned clusters. In this stage, by representing each cluster as a node and using the result of the first stage and the ideas of greed and random, we define the distances between each two nodes and construct a multiple traveling salesmen problem (MTSP), and then apply a grouping-based genetic algorithm to solve it. Computational experiments indicate that the proposed algorithm can obtain better solution results for various scale instances and shows good solution performance.
Novel Approaches to Enzyme-Based Electrochemical Nanobiosensors
Authors: Kilic Nur Melis , Singh Sima , Keles Gulsu , Cinti Stefano , Kurbanoglu Sevinc , Odaci Dilek
Published: June 2023

Electrochemistry is a genuinely interdisciplinary science that may be used in various physical, chemical, and biological domains. Moreover, using biosensors to quantify biological or biochemical processes is critical in medical, biological, and biotechnological applications. Nowadays, there are several electrochemical biosensors for various healthcare applications, such as for the determination of glucose, lactate, catecholamines, nucleic acid, uric acid, and so on. Enzyme-based analytical techniques rely on detecting the co-substrate or, more precisely, the products of a catalyzed reaction. The glucose oxidase enzyme is generally used in enzyme-based biosensors to measure glucose in tears, blood, etc. Moreover, among all nanomaterials, carbon-based nanomaterials have generally been utilized thanks to the unique properties of carbon. The sensitivity can be up to pM levels using enzyme-based nanobiosensor, and these sensors are very selective, as all enzymes are specific for their substrates. Furthermore, enzyme-based biosensors frequently have fast reaction times, allowing for real-time monitoring and analyses. These biosensors, however, have several drawbacks. Changes in temperature, pH, and other environmental factors can influence the stability and activity of the enzymes, affecting the reliability and repeatability of the readings. Additionally, the cost of the enzymes and their immobilization onto appropriate transducer surfaces might be prohibitively expensive, impeding the large-scale commercialization and widespread use of biosensors. This review discusses the design, detection, and immobilization techniques for enzyme-based electrochemical nanobiosensors, and recent applications in enzyme-based electrochemical studies are evaluated and tabulated.
Proof-of-Concept: Smartphone- and Cloud-Based Artificial Intelligence Quantitative Analysis System (SCAISY) for SARS-CoV-2-Specific IgG Antibody Lateral Flow Assays
Authors: Kumar Samir , Ko Taewoo , Chae Yeonghun , Jang Yuyeon , Lee Inha , Lee Ahyeon , Shin Sanghoon , Nam Myung-Hyun , Kim Byung Soo , Jun Hyun Sik , Seo Sungkyu
Published: June 2023

Smartphone-based point-of-care testing (POCT) is rapidly emerging as an alternative to traditional screening and laboratory testing, particularly in resource-limited settings. In this proof-of-concept study, we present a smartphone- and cloud-based artificial intelligence quantitative analysis system (SCAISY) for relative quantification of SARS-CoV-2-specific IgG antibody lateral flow assays that enables rapid evaluation (<60 s) of test strips. By capturing an image with a smartphone camera, SCAISY quantitatively analyzes antibody levels and provides results to the user. We analyzed changes in antibody levels over time in more than 248 individuals, including vaccine type, number of doses, and infection status, with a standard deviation of less than 10%. We also tracked antibody levels in six participants before and after SARS-CoV-2 infection. Finally, we examined the effects of lighting conditions, camera angle, and smartphone type to ensure consistency and reproducibility. We found that images acquired between 45° and 90° provided accurate results with a small standard deviation and that all illumination conditions provided essentially identical results within the standard deviation. A statistically significant correlation was observed (Spearman correlation coefficient: 0.59, p = 0.008; Pearson correlation coefficient: 0.56, p = 0.012) between the OD450 values of the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and the antibody levels obtained by SCAISY. This study suggests that SCAISY is a simple and powerful tool for real-time public health surveillance, enabling the acceleration of quantifying SARS-CoV-2-specific antibodies generated by either vaccination or infection and tracking of personal immunity levels.
Carbon Electrode Sensor for the Measurement of Cortisol with Fast-Scan Cyclic Voltammetry
Authors: Hadad Michelle , Hadad Nadine , Zestos Alexander G.
Published: June 2023

Cortisol is a vital steroid hormone that has been known as the “stress hormone”, which is elevated during times of high stress and anxiety and has a significant impact on neurochemistry and brain health. The improved detection of cortisol is critically important as it will help further our understanding of stress during several physiological states. Several methods exist to detect cortisol; however, they suffer from low biocompatibility and spatiotemporal resolution, and they are relatively slow. In this study, we developed an assay to measure cortisol with carbon fiber microelectrodes (CFMEs) and fast-scan cyclic voltammetry (FSCV). FSCV is typically utilized to measure small molecule neurotransmitters by producing a readout cyclic voltammogram (CV) for the specific detection of biomolecules on a fast, subsecond timescale with biocompatible CFMEs. It has seen enhanced utility in measuring peptides and other larger compounds. We developed a waveform that scanned from −0.5 to −1.2 V at 400 V/s to electro-reduce cortisol at the surface of CFMEs. The sensitivity of cortisol was found to be 0.87 ± 0.055 nA/μM (n = 5) and was found to be adsorption controlled on the surface of CFMEs and stable over several hours. Cortisol was co-detected with several other biomolecules such as dopamine, and the waveform was fouling resistant to repeated injections of cortisol on the surface of the CFMEs. Furthermore, we also measured exogenously applied cortisol into simulated urine to demonstrate biocompatibility and potential use in vivo. The specific and biocompatible detection of cortisol with high spatiotemporal resolution will help further elucidate its biological significance and further understand its physiological importance and impact on brain health.
Engineering Method for Calculating Temperature Deformations of PVC Window Profiles with a Reinforcing Steel Core
Authors: Konstantinov Aleksandr Petrovich , Aksenov Ivan Sergeevich
Published: June 2023

In current engineering practice, static calculation of windows for temperature loads is not performed. However, the existing experience in operating PVC windows in environmental conditions of Eastern and Northern Europe shows that the temperature deformation of such structures can reach values comparable to those of wind loads, which leads to a significant reduction in their technical and operational characteristics. Temperature deformations of windows can be assessed during laboratory tests. However, such tests are not representative. In this regard, it is necessary to develop an engineering method for calculating temperature deformations of windows. In this study, the authors present the results of the analysis of temperature deformations of PVC window profiles. The investigations were divided into several stages. First, the authors numerically analysed the character of temperature distribution over the cross section of PVC window profiles. Then, they theoretically substantiated the bending deformations of PVC window profiles disregarding the reinforcing steel core. Next, the authors considered the patterns of bending deformations of PVC window profiles, taking into account the presence of a reinforcing steel core in various schemes of their connection to each other. The authors also analysed the effect of the temperature dependence of the mechanical properties of PVC on the deformation of window profiles. The character of torsional temperature deformations of PVC window profiles was also studied. As a result of this investigation, the authors proposed a simplified analytical and numerical method for calculating the temperature deformations of PVC window profiles with a reinforcing steel core. The authors have used the proposed methods to calculate the temperature deformations of PVC window mullions (vertical bars that divide the window into parts). These theoretical calculations were compared with the experimental investigations data on PVC windows and showed a fine precision of results (the discrepancy was 10.6%).
Risk of Second Primary Malignancies in Melanoma Survivors: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Antoñanzas Javier , Morello-Vicente Ana , Garnacho-Saucedo Gloria Maria , Redondo Pedro , Aguado-Gil Leyre , Salido-Vallejo Rafael
Published: June 2023

(1) Introduction: The association between melanoma (MM) and the occurrence of second primary neoplasms (SPNs) has been extensively studied, with reported incidence rates ranging from 1.5% to 20%. This study aims to evaluate the occurrence of SPNs in patients with a history of primary MM and to describe the factors that make the risk higher in our population. (2) Material and Methods: We conducted a prospective cohort study and calculated the incidence rates and relative risks (RR) for the development of different SPNs in 529 MM survivors from 1 January 2005 to 1 August 2021. Survival and mortality rates were obtained, and the Cox proportional hazards model was used to determine the demographic and MM-related factors that influence the overall risk. (3) Results: Among the 529 patients included, 89 were diagnosed with SPNs (29 prior to MM diagnosis, 11 synchronous, and 49 after MM), resulting in 62 skin tumors and 37 solid organ tumors. The estimated probability of developing SPNs after MM diagnosis was 4.1% at 1 year, 11% at 5 years, and 19% at 10 years. Older age, primary MM location on the face or neck, and histologic subtype of lentigo maligna mm were significantly associated with a higher risk of SPNs. (4) Conclusions: In our population, the risk of developing SPNs was higher in patients with primary MM located on the face and neck and with the histological subtype of lentigo maligna-MM. Age also independently influences the risk. Understanding these hazard factors can aid in the development of MM guidelines with specific follow-up recommendations for individuals with the highest risk.
Clinical Impact of Single Nucleotide Polymorphism in CD-19 on Treatment Outcome in FMC63-CAR-T Cell Therapy
Authors: Seipel Katja , Abbühl Mariesol , Bacher Ulrike , Nilius Henning , Daskalakis Michael , Pabst Thomas
Published: June 2023

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapy is effective in patients with relapsed or refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (r/r DLBCL) with response rates of 63–84% and complete response observed in 43–54%. Common germline variants of the target antigen CD19 may elicit different responses to CAR-T cell therapy. The CD19 gene single nucleotide polymorphism rs2904880 encoding leucine or valine at amino acid position 174 of the CD19 antigen was prevalent in 51% of the studied DLBCL patients. In a retrospective comparative analysis of clinical outcome, there were significant differences in CD19 L174 versus V174 carriers: the median time of progression-free survival was 22 vs. 6 months (p = 0.06), overall survival was 37 vs. 8 months (p = 0.11), complete response rates were 51% vs. 30% (p = 0.05), and refractory disease rates were 14% vs. 32% (p = 0.04). The single nucleotide polymorphism in CD19 was shown to influence the treatment outcome in FMC63-anti-CD19-CAR-T cell therapy, and the CD19 minor allele L174 predicted a favorable treatment outcome.
The Role of Anesthetic Drugs and Statins in Prostate Cancer Recurrence: Starting at the Actual Knowledge and Walking through a New Paradigm
Authors: Raigon Ponferrada Aida , Molina Ruiz Juan Carlos , Romero Molina Salvador , Rodriguez Garcia Verónica , Guerrero Orriach Jose Luis
Published: June 2023

Prostate cancer has become a major health problem in men. Its incidence is increasing as the average age of the affected pulation tends to be higher. Of all the possible treatments, surgery is the gold standard in its treatment. Surgery produces a deregulation in the immune system that can favour the development of distant metastases. Different anesthetic techniques have raised the hypothesis that different anesthetic drugs influence tumor recurrence and prognosis. Some mechanisms are beginning to be understood by which halogenated agents in cancer patients and the use of opioids may negatively affect patients. In this document, we group together all the available evidence on how the different anesthetic drugs affect tumor recurrence in prostate cancer.
Catching Cancer Early: The Importance of Dermato-Oncology Screening
Authors: Stătescu Laura , Cojocaru Elena , Trandafir Laura Mihaela , Ţarcă Elena , Tîrnovanu Mihaela Camelia , Heredea Rodica Elena , Săveanu Cătălina Iulia , Tarcău Bogdan Marian , Popescu Ioana Adriana , Botezat Doru
Published: June 2023

The European Society for Medical Oncology experts have identified the main components of the long-term management of oncological patients. These include early diagnosis through population screening and periodic control of already diagnosed patients to identify relapses, recurrences, and other associated neoplasms. There are no generally accepted international guidelines for the long-term monitoring of patients with skin neoplasms (nonmelanoma skin cancer, malignant melanoma, precancerous—high-risk skin lesions). Still, depending on the experience of the attending physician and based on the data from the literature, one can establish monitoring intervals to supervise these high-risk population groups, educate the patient and monitor the general population.
A Multigene Signature Associated with Progression-Free Survival after Treatment for IDH Mutant and 1p/19q Codeleted Oligodendrogliomas
Authors: Gilhodes Julia , Meola Adèle , Cabarrou Bastien , Peyraga Guillaume , Dehais Caroline , Figarella-Branger Dominique , Ducray François , Maurage Claude-Alain , Loussouarn Delphine , Uro-Coste Emmanuelle , Cohen-Jonathan Moyal Elizabeth ,   POLA Network
Published: June 2023

Background. IDH mutant and 1p/19q codeleted oligodendrogliomas are the gliomas associated with the best prognosis. However, despite their sensitivity to treatment, patient survival remains heterogeneous. We aimed to identify gene expressions associated with response to treatment from a national cohort of patients with oligodendrogliomas, all treated with radiotherapy +/− chemotherapy. Methods. We extracted total RNA from frozen tumor samples and investigated enriched pathways using KEGG and Reactome databases. We applied a stability selection approach based on subsampling combined with the lasso-pcvl algorithm to identify genes associated with progression-free survival and calculate a risk score. Results. We included 68 patients with oligodendrogliomas treated with radiotherapy +/− chemotherapy. After filtering, 1697 genes were obtained, including 134 associated with progression-free survival: 35 with a better prognosis and 99 with a poorer one. Eight genes (ST3GAL6, QPCT, NQO1, EPHX1, CST3, S100A8, CHI3L1, and OSBPL3) whose risk score remained statistically significant after adjustment for prognostic factors in multivariate analysis were selected in more than 60% of cases were associated with shorter progression-free survival. Conclusions. We found an eight-gene signature associated with a higher risk of rapid relapse after treatment in patients with oligodendrogliomas. This finding could help clinicians identify patients who need more intensive treatment.
Synthesis and Applications of Copper-Based Catalysts
Authors: Wu Ke , Xing Liwen , Ji Yongjun
Published: June 2023

The increasing demand for fine and high-value-added chemicals has motivated the lasting exploration of high-performance catalysts with desirable activity, selectivity, and durability [...]
Formic Acid Dehydrogenation over a Monometallic Pd and Bimetallic Pd:Co Catalyst Supported on Activated Carbon
Authors: Ribota Peláez María , Ruiz-López E. , Domínguez M. I. , Ivanova S. , Centeno M. A.
Published: June 2023

In this study, palladium is proposed as an active site for formic acid dehydrogenation reaction. Pd activity was modulated with Co metal with the final aim of finding a synergistic effect that makes possible efficient hydrogen production for a low noble metal content. For the monometallic catalysts, the metal loadings were optimized, and the increase in the reaction temperature and presence of additives were carefully considered. The present study aimed, to a great extent, to enlighten the possible routes for decreasing noble metal loading in view of the better sustainability of hydrogen production from liquid organic carrier molecules, such as formic acid.
Genome Editing for Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Wang Guoshun
Published: June 2023

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a monogenic recessive genetic disorder caused by mutations in the CF Transmembrane-conductance Regulator gene (CFTR). Remarkable progress in basic research has led to the discovery of highly effective CFTR modulators. Now ~90% of CF patients are treatable. However, these modulator therapies are not curative and do not cover the full spectrum of CFTR mutations. Thus, there is a continued need to develop a complete and durable therapy that can treat all CF patients once and for all. As CF is a genetic disease, the ultimate therapy would be in-situ repair of the genetic lesions in the genome. Within the past few years, new technologies, such as CRISPR/Cas gene editing, have emerged as an appealing platform to revise the genome, ushering in a new era of genetic therapy. This review provided an update on this rapidly evolving field and the status of adapting the technology for CF therapy.
Airway Epithelial Cultures of Children with Esophageal Atresia as a Model to Study Respiratory Tract Disorders
Authors: Dreyer Henriette H. M. , van Tuyll van Serooskerken Eleonora Sofie , Rodenburg Lisa W. , Bittermann Arnold J. N. , Arets Hubertus G. M. , Reuling Ellen M. B. P. , Verweij Johannes W. , Haarman Eric G. , van der Zee David C. , Tytgat Stefaan H. A. J. , van der Ent Cornelis K. , Beekman Jeffrey M. , Amatngalim Gimano D. , Lindeboom Maud Y. A.
Published: June 2023

Esophageal atresia (EA) is a rare birth defect in which respiratory tract disorders are a major cause of morbidity. It remains unclear whether respiratory tract disorders are in part caused by alterations in airway epithelial cell functions such as the activity of motile cilia. This can be studied using airway epithelial cell culture models of patients with EA. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility to culture and functionally characterize motile cilia function in the differentiated air–liquid interface cultured airway epithelial cells and 3D organoids derived from nasal brushings and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid from children with EA. We demonstrate the feasibility of culturing differentiated airway epithelia and organoids of nasal brushings and BAL fluid of children with EA, which display normal motile cilia function. EA patient-derived airway epithelial cultures can be further used to examine whether alterations in epithelial functions contribute to respiratory disorders in EA.
Polypyrrole-Modified Molybdenum Disulfide Nanocomposite Epoxy Coating Inhibits Corrosion of Mild Steel
Authors: Zhang Yafeng , Die Juncheng , Li Fei , Li Hai , Tu Jinchun , Zhang Kexi , Yu Xiaolong
Published: June 2023

The search for lightweight and low-cost anticorrosion coatings is particularly important in coastal environments with high salt and humidity. Graphene-based anticorrosion coatings are currently unable to provide long-lasting corrosion protection for metals because of their “corrosion-promoting activity”, and graphene-like materials, such as molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), are beginning to be anticipated its ability to protect against metals. This paper reported a simple method for preparing polypyrrole (PPy)-modified MoS2 nanomaterials from natural bulk MoS2. Their corrosion resistance behavior as fillers for epoxy (EP) resins was investigated in 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution. After the preparation of the MoS2 nanosheet dispersion by liquid-phase sonication using ethanol aqueous solution, the polypyrrole-coated molybdenum disulfide nanomaterials (MoS2@PPy) were directly obtained by adding pyrrole monomer to it in the presence of the initiator ammonium persulfate. Tafel polarization curves showed that the corrosion current of the MoS2@PPy/EP coating was 0.006 µA/cm2 after 15 days of immersion in 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution, much lower than that of pure EP coating (19.134 µA/cm2), effectively improving the anticorrosive properties of the coating. Overall, this study offered a practical method for the application of natural bulk MoS2 for corrosion protection.
Ice Adhesion Evaluation of PTFE Solid Lubricant Film Applied on TiO2 Coatings
Authors: Farahani Emad , Liberati Andre C. , Mahdavi Amirhossein , Stoyanov Pantcho , Moreau Christian , Dolatabadi Ali
Published: June 2023

Ice formation affects the performance of many industrial components, including aircraft wings, spacecraft, and power transmission cables. In particular, ice build-up on airplane components increases drag and fuel consumption. A large number of studies have been carried out to reduce ice adhesion by developing passive methods such as icephobic coatings and active ice removal approaches such as mechanical vibrations or chemical-based solutions. Despite remarkable recent breakthroughs in the fabrication of icephobic coatings, passive ice removal solutions require higher durability to resist cyclical mechanical ice detachment treatments. Functionalized TiO2 coatings, applied using the suspension plasma spray (SPS) technique, have been shown to be robust and to have dual-scale characteristics in an ice accretion analysis. In this study, the icephobicity and mechanical durability of a novel duplex coating consisting of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) solid lubricant films on TiO2-coated substrates were evaluated. Notably, various amounts of PTFE were applied on top of the TiO2 coating to identify the ideal quantity required to obtain optimal icephobic properties. Ice was generated in an icing wind tunnel, and the amount of accreted ice was evaluated to assess the anti-icing properties. Wettability parameters, including static water contact angle and contact angle hysteresis, were measured to determine the water mobility and surface energy. Ice shear adhesion to the PTFE-TiO2 duplex coating was measured using a custom-built test rig. The mechanical durability was assessed by measuring the ice shear strength for almost twenty icing–deicing cycles, and after five cycles, the roughness parameters and images taken from the surface of the samples were compared. The combination of PTFE solid lubricant film and TiO2 coating reduced ice adhesion by 70%–90% compared to that of a bare aluminum substrate (reference material). Additionally, the results showed that the application of a uniform layer of PTFE solid lubricant film on dual-scale TiO2 coating significantly reduced ice adhesion and maintained mechanical durability for 25 deicing cycles, making this combination a promising candidate for deicing approaches.
Inferring Bivariate Polynomials for Homomorphic Encryption Application
Authors: Maimuţ Diana , Teşeleanu George
Published: June 2023

Inspired by the advancements in (fully) homomorphic encryption in recent decades and its practical applications, we conducted a preliminary study on the underlying mathematical structure of the corresponding schemes. Hence, this paper focuses on investigating the challenge of deducing bivariate polynomials constructed using homomorphic operations, namely repetitive additions and multiplications. To begin with, we introduce an approach for solving the previously mentioned problem using Lagrange interpolation for the evaluation of univariate polynomials. This method is well-established for determining univariate polynomials that satisfy a specific set of points. Moreover, we propose a second approach based on modular knapsack resolution algorithms. These algorithms are designed to address optimization problems in which a set of objects with specific weights and values is involved. Finally, we provide recommendations on how to run our algorithms in order to obtain better results in terms of precision.
An Invasive Ductal Carcinomas Breast Cancer Grade Classification Using an Ensemble of Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Kumaraswamy Eelandula , Kumar Sumit , Sharma Manoj
Published: June 2023

Invasive Ductal Carcinoma Breast Cancer (IDC-BC) is the most common type of cancer and its asymptomatic nature has led to an increased mortality rate globally. Advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning have revolutionized the medical field with the development of AI-enabled computer-aided diagnosis (CAD) systems, which help in determining diseases at an early stage. CAD systems assist pathologists in their decision-making process to produce more reliable outcomes in order to treat patients well. In this work, the potential of pre-trained convolutional neural networks (CNNs) (i.e., EfficientNetV2L, ResNet152V2, DenseNet201), singly or as an ensemble, was thoroughly explored. The performances of these models were evaluated for IDC-BC grade classification using the DataBiox dataset. Data augmentation was used to avoid the issues of data scarcity and data imbalances. The performance of the best model was compared to three different balanced datasets of Databiox (i.e., 1200, 1400, and 1600 images) to determine the implications of this data augmentation. Furthermore, the effects of the number of epochs were analysed to ensure the coherency of the most optimal model. The experimental results analysis revealed that the proposed ensemble model outperformed the existing state-of-the-art techniques in relation to classifying the IDC-BC grades of the Databiox dataset. The proposed ensemble model of the CNNs achieved a 94% classification accuracy and attained a significant area under the ROC curves for grades 1, 2, and 3, i.e., 96%, 94%, and 96%, respectively.
Unleashing the Potential of Morphing Wings: A Novel Cost Effective Morphing Method for UAV Surfaces, Rear Spar Articulated Wing Camber
Authors: Ozbek Emre , Ekici Selcuk , Karakoc T. Hikmet
Published: June 2023

The implementation of morphing wing applications in aircraft design has sparked significant interest as it enables the dimensional properties of the aircraft to be modified during flight. By allowing manipulation of the 2D and 3D parameters on the aircraft’s wings, tail surfaces, or fuselage, a variety of possibilities have arisen. Two primary schools of thought have emerged in the field of morphing wing applications: the mechanisms school and the smart surfaces approach that uses shape-memory materials and smart actuators. Among the research in this field, the Fishbone Active Camber (FishBAC) approach has emerged as a promising avenue for controlling the deflection of the wing’s trailing edge. This study revisits previous research on morphing wings and the FishBAC concept, evaluates the current state of the field, and presents an original design process flow that includes the design of a unique and innovative UAV called the Stingray within the scope of the study. A novel morphing concept developed for the Stingray UAV, Rear Spar Articulated Wing Camber (RSAWC), employs a fishbone-like morphing wing rib design with rear spar articulation in a cost-effective manner. The design process and flight tests of the RSAWC are presented and directly compared with a conventional wing. Results are evaluated based on performance, weight, cost, and complexity. Semi-empirical data from the flight testing of the concept resulted in approximately a 19% flight endurance increment. The study also presents future directions of research on the RSAWC concept to guide the researchers.
Artificial Intelligence and Business Studies: Study Cycle Differences Regarding the Perceptions of the Key Future Competences
Authors: Tominc Polona , Rožman Maja
Published: June 2023

The purpose of this article is to identify the differences in various aspects of the perception of artificial intelligence by students of economics and business studies at different levels of study and, on this basis, to formulate recommendations both to the higher education institutions themselves, which educate in the field of economic and business sciences, as well as to curriculum designers. First, we utilized descriptive statistics to analyze the responses for each construct among undergraduate and postgraduate students. In the second part, we employed the Kolmogorov-Smirnov and Shapiro-Wilk tests to assess the normality of data distribution. Finally, in the third part, we employed the non-parametric Mann-Whitney U test to identify the differences between undergraduate and postgraduate students. The results show that statistically significant differences can be identified especially in how students of both study levels see and understand the importance of AI. Although we did not identify significant differences between students of both levels in how they see their role in the future labor market, which will be (or already is) characterized by artificial intelligence, we must emphasize that students of both levels evaluate their roles modestly in this respect. Therefore, on this basis, we have made recommendations for more active development and integration of AI in the study process; the article presents important suggestions for improving education to prepare students for the business world of artificial intelligence.
Enhancing Fault Awareness and Reliability of a Fault-Tolerant RISC-V System-on-Chip
Authors: Santos Douglas A. , Mattos André M. P. , Melo Douglas R. , Dilillo Luigi
Published: June 2023

Recent research has shown interest in adopting the RISC-V processors for high-reliability electronics, such as aerospace applications. The openness of this architecture enables the implementation and customization of the processor features to increase their reliability. Studies on hardened RISC-V processors facing harsh radiation environments apply fault tolerance techniques in the processor core and peripherals, exploiting system redundancies. In prior work, we present a hardened RISC-V System-on-Chip (SoC), which could detect and correct radiation-induced faults with limited fault awareness. Therefore, in this work, we propose solutions to extend the fault observability of the SoC implementation by providing error detection and monitoring. For this purpose, we introduce observation features in the redundant structures of the system, enabling the report of valuable information that supports enhanced radiation testing and support the application to perform actions to recover from critical failures. Thus, the main contribution of this work is a solution to improve fault awareness and the analysis of the fault models in the system. In order to validate this solution, we performed complementary experiments in two irradiation facilities, comprehending atmospheric neutrons and a mixed-field environment, in which the system proved to be valuable for analyzing the radiation effects on the processor core and its peripherals. In these experiments, we were able to obtain a range of error reports that allowed us to gain a deeper understanding of the faults mechanisms, as well as improve the characterization of the SoC.
Establishment of PEG-Mediated Transient Gene Expression in Protoplasts Isolated from the Callus of Cunninghamia lanceolata
Authors: Hong Kaiyue , Chen Zhenyu , Radani Yasmina , Zheng Renhua , Zheng Xueyan , Li Yong , Chen Jinhui , Yang Liming
Published: June 2023

Cunninghamia lanceolata (C. lanceolata) is an important timber tree species in southern China that requires gene function studies to understand its traits. In this study, we investigated the callus induction rates of immature zygotic embryos from reciprocal hybrids between genotypes B46 and B49. With zygotic embryo development, the callus induction rates showed an increasing trend, followed by a decreasing trend. Moreover, the rate of callus induction in genotype B46 × B49 immature zygotic embryos was greater than in genotype B49 × B46. Callus from C. lanceolata with genotype B46 × B49 was selected as the donor material for protoplast isolation. By using an enzymatic digestion solution containing cellulase, macerozyme, and pectinase, combined with an osmotic stabilizer, we obtained 9.76 × 106 protoplasts/mL with 92.7% viability. We subsequently transformed plasmids into C. lanceolata callus protoplasts and observed the location of the H2B-eYFP fusion protein in the nucleus. To achieve transient transfection of C. lanceolata callus protoplasts, we compared transfection efficiencies at different concentrations of PEG4000, PEG6000, or PEG8000 in a modified MMg solution. We found that 20% (w/v) PEG6000 mediated the transient transfection of C. lanceolata callus protoplasts with a 6.70% efficiency. This study provides a technical foundation for future research on transient transfection and functional analysis of C. lanceolata genes.
Riparian Vegetation Conversion to an Oil Tea Plantation: Impacts on Small Mammals at the Community, Population, and Individual Level
Authors: Zhang Lei-Lei , Tang Yun-Sheng , Wang Yu-Jue , Wang Jia-Neng , Wang Zheng , Zhang Bao-Wei , Chen Wen-Wen , Pan Ying , Chen Xin-Sheng
Published: June 2023

Riparian vegetation is crucial for maintaining terrestrial and aquatic biodiversity, but it is threatened by land-use activities. To assess the ecological impacts of riparian vegetation conversion to an oil tea (Camellia oleifera) plantation, we quantified the responses of small mammals in two natural habitats (mature forest and flood-meadow) and in Camellia forests at the community, population, and individual level. We found that the community diversity was similar between Camellia forests and mature forests, but higher than the flood-meadow. Meanwhile, the community composition differed across three habitats, with Camellia forests favoring habitat generalist species. At the population level, Camellia forests and flood-meadow had a similar population density, which were higher than mature forests. At the individual level, Rattus nitidus was less sensitive to this conversion, but the body condition index of Niviventer confucianus was higher in Camellia forests than in mature forests, and Apodemus agrarius in Camellia forests had more ectoparasite load than in the flood-meadow, indicating a species-specific response to the impacts of oil tea plantation. Our study highlights that the occurrence of habitat generalist species and high ectoparasite loads may threaten regional biodiversity and increase the risk of parasite transmission with enlarging the oil tea plantation area within riparian zones.
Drivers of Net Primary Productivity Spatio-Temporal Variation in Ningxia, China
Authors: Zhao Binhua , Ma Zeyu , Li Peng , Xu Yaotao , Zhang Guojun , Ma Wentao , Ren Zhengyan
Published: June 2023

The drivers and spatial distribution trends for net primary productivity (NPP) in Ningxia were studied to determine the priority vegetation restoration areas. NPP data from MOD17 A3 were used to determine the future NPP trends through slope trend analysis and the Hurst index. Spatial drivers were defined by a geographic detector and correlation analysis. Results indicate that NPP positively fluctuated from 2000 to 2020 with an average range between 119.98 and 249.66 gC/m2a, and a multi-year average of 190.15 gC/m2a. The spatial distribution has more obvious divergent characteristics, showing distribution characteristics of low in the central and northern sides and high in the southern and northern middle. Superimposed on the analysis of slope and Hurst indices, the future vegetation NPP in Ningxia will show four scenarios of continuous increase, continuous decrease, change from increase to decrease and change from decrease to increase, accounting for 22.35%, 1.36%, 71.42% and 2.86% of the area of the region, respectively. Driving factor influence can be divided into dominant factors and important factors. The interaction between the two factors is positive, and the maximum q value under the interaction of precipitation and temperature is 0.687. NPP is mainly driven by climatic factors in 50.92% of the area and is mainly distributed in the central, western and southern parts of Ningxia. The non-climatic-factor-driven areas can be used as priority vegetation restoration areas, which accounting for 47.08%, are mainly concentrated in the northern Yellow River irrigation area, the desert steppe in the central and eastern parts, and a small part in the southern Liupan Mountains.
Advances in the Production of Theanine by Plants and Microorganisms
Authors: Xiao Shujian , Qian Rong , Hu Shunyang , Fu Zhongdan , Bai Ting , Wang Wei , Cheng Jie , Zhang Jiamin
Published: June 2023

Theanine, a representative non-protein amino acid in tea, is one of the umami components of tea and a major factor in the formation of the unique flavor of tea leaves. In addition to its delicious taste, theanine has a variety of health functions and is used in the food supplement, pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and cosmetic industries. This review briefly describes the physiological functions, application prospects, and production methods of theanine. The biosynthetic pathway of L-theanine in natural plants is also introduced. Finally, the microbial synthesis of L-theanine is divided into two major biosynthetic pathways guided by glutamine and glutamate according to the different substrates. According to the status, at present, of the microbial synthesis of L-theanine, the future development of microbial synthesis of L-theanine is prospected, in order to provide technical and theoretical basis for in-depth research on the industrial production of theanine.
Relationships between Teleworking and Travel Behavior in the Brazilian COVID-19 Crisis
Authors: Suzuki Goshima Carolina Yumi , Dias Valentina Carvalho , Pedreira Junior Jorge Ubirajara , Pitombo Cira Souza
Published: June 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic caused a significant shift towards teleworking, resulting in changes in travel patterns. The relationship between teleworking and individual travel behavior is crucial for transportation planning and policymaking. Thereby, this article investigates the relationships between teleworking, COVID-19, and mobility patterns in Brazil during two different periods of the COVID-19 pandemic. Given the exceptional nature of recent events, it is crucial to conduct studies related to teleworking during the pandemic crisis to contribute relevant information and evidence to the literature on this phenomenon. Such research has the potential to provide new insights and perspectives that enhance our understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with teleworking. Two different approaches were used in the methodological procedure. The first approach used exploratory analysis to study public aggregated data related to the beginning of the pandemic, followed by a cluster analysis and a multinomial logit model. The second approach, relative to a longer relaxation period of sanitary/health measures, collected disaggregated self-reported data using an online survey, which were analyzed through non-parametric tests. The results show a strong relationship between the teleworking regime and the frequency of trips, especially for work purposes. It also highlights the influence of economic development and the region of Brazil in the kind of work regime. The continuation of studies, such as this one, in current periods is important for analyzing possible impacts, such as the reduction in congestion, vehicle emissions, and to enable the use of teleworking as a demand management policy.