bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Loss of Astrocytic µ Opioid Receptors Exacerbates Aversion Associated with Morphine Withdrawal in Mice: Role of Mitochondrial Respiration
Authors: Murlanova Kateryna , Jouroukhin Yan , Novototskaya-Vlasova Ksenia , Huseynov Shovgi , Pletnikova Olga , Morales Michael J. , Guan Yun , Kamiya Atsushi , Bergles Dwight E. , Dietz David M. , Pletnikov Mikhail V.
Published: May 2023

Astrocytes express mu/µ opioid receptors, but the function of these receptors remains poorly understood. We evaluated the effects of astrocyte-restricted knockout of µ opioid receptors on reward- and aversion-associated behaviors in mice chronically exposed to morphine. Specifically, one of the floxed alleles of the Oprm1 gene encoding µ opioid receptor 1 was selectively deleted from brain astrocytes in Oprm1 inducible conditional knockout (icKO) mice. These mice did not exhibit changes in locomotor activity, anxiety, or novel object recognition, or in their responses to the acute analgesic effects of morphine. Oprm1 icKO mice displayed increased locomotor activity in response to acute morphine administration but unaltered locomotor sensitization. Oprm1 icKO mice showed normal morphine-induced conditioned place preference but exhibited stronger conditioned place aversion associated with naloxone-precipitated morphine withdrawal. Notably, elevated conditioned place aversion lasted up to 6 weeks in Oprm1 icKO mice. Astrocytes isolated from the brains of Oprm1 icKO mice had unchanged levels of glycolysis but had elevated oxidative phosphorylation. The basal augmentation of oxidative phosphorylation in Oprm1 icKO mice was further exacerbated by naloxone-precipitated withdrawal from morphine and, similar to that for conditioned place aversion, was still present 6 weeks later. Our findings suggest that µ opioid receptors in astrocytes are linked to oxidative phosphorylation and they contribute to long-term changes associated with opioid withdrawal.
Immunomodulatory Macrophages Enable E-MNC Therapy for Radiation-Induced Salivary Gland Hypofunction
Authors: Honma Ryo , I Takashi , Seki Makoto , Iwatake Mayumi , Ogaeri Takunori , Hasegawa Kayo , Ohba Seigo , Tran Simon D. , Asahina Izumi , Sumita Yoshinori
Published: May 2023

A newly developed therapy using effective-mononuclear cells (E-MNCs) is reportedly effective against radiation-damaged salivary glands (SGs) due to anti-inflammatory and revascularization effects. However, the cellular working mechanism of E-MNC therapy in SGs remains to be elucidated. In this study, E-MNCs were induced from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMNCs) by culture for 5–7 days in medium supplemented with five specific recombinant proteins (5G-culture). We analyzed the anti-inflammatory characteristics of macrophage fraction of E-MNCs using a co-culture model with CD3/CD28-stimulated PBMNCs. To test therapeutic efficacy in vivo, either E-MNCs or E-MNCs depleted of CD11b-positive cells were transplanted intraglandularly into mice with radiation-damaged SGs. Following transplantation, SG function recovery and immunohistochemical analyses of harvested SGs were assessed to determine if CD11b-positive macrophages contributed to tissue regeneration. The results indicated that CD11b/CD206-positive (M2-like) macrophages were specifically induced in E-MNCs during 5G-culture, and Msr1- and galectin3-positive cells (immunomodulatory macrophages) were predominant. CD11b-positive fraction of E-MNCs significantly inhibited the expression of inflammation-related genes in CD3/CD28-stimulated PBMNCs. Transplanted E-MNCs exhibited a therapeutic effect on saliva secretion and reduced tissue fibrosis in radiation-damaged SGs, whereas E-MNCs depleted of CD11b-positive cells and radiated controls did not. Immunohistochemical analyses revealed HMGB1 phagocytosis and IGF1 secretion by CD11b/Msr1-positive macrophages from both transplanted E-MNCs and host M2-macrophages. Thus, the anti-inflammatory and tissue-regenerative effects observed in E-MNC therapy against radiation-damaged SGs can be partly explained by the immunomodulatory effect of M2-dominant macrophage fraction.
Cannabinoid Signaling in Kidney Disease
Authors: Arceri Liana , Nguyen Thanh Khoa , Gibson Shannon , Baker Sophia , Wingert Rebecca A.
Published: May 2023

Endocannabinoid signaling plays crucial roles in human physiology in the function of multiple systems. The two cannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2, are cell membrane proteins that interact with both exogenous and endogenous bioactive lipid ligands, or endocannabinoids. Recent evidence has established that endocannabinoid signaling operates within the human kidney, as well as suggests the important role it plays in multiple renal pathologies. CB1, specifically, has been identified as the more prominent ECS receptor within the kidney, allowing us to place emphasis on this receptor. The activity of CB1 has been repeatedly shown to contribute to both diabetic and non-diabetic chronic kidney disease (CKD). Interestingly, recent reports of acute kidney injury (AKI) have been attributed to synthetic cannabinoid use. Therefore, the exploration of the ECS, its receptors, and its ligands can help provide better insight into new methods of treatment for a range of renal diseases. This review explores the endocannabinoid system, with a focus on its impacts within the healthy and diseased kidney.
Therapeutic Perspectives for Inflammation and Senescence in Osteoarthritis Using Mesenchymal Stem Cells, Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicles and Senolytic Agents
Authors: Rizzo Michael G. , Best Thomas M. , Huard Johnny , Philippon Marc , Hornicek Francis , Duan Zhenfeng , Griswold Anthony J. , Kaplan Lee D. , Hare Joshua M. , Kouroupis Dimitrios
Published: May 2023

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common cause of disability worldwide among the elderly. Alarmingly, the incidence of OA in individuals less than 40 years of age is rising, likely due to the increase in obesity and post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA). In recent years, due to a better understanding of the underlying pathophysiology of OA, several potential therapeutic approaches targeting specific molecular pathways have been identified. In particular, the role of inflammation and the immune system has been increasingly recognized as important in a variety of musculoskeletal diseases, including OA. Similarly, higher levels of host cellular senescence, characterized by cessation of cell division and the secretion of a senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) within the local tissue microenvironments, have also been linked to OA and its progression. New advances in the field, including stem cell therapies and senolytics, are emerging with the goal of slowing disease progression. Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) are a subset of multipotent adult stem cells that have demonstrated the potential to modulate unchecked inflammation, reverse fibrosis, attenuate pain, and potentially treat patients with OA. Numerous studies have demonstrated the potential of MSC extracellular vesicles (EVs) as cell-free treatments that comply with FDA regulations. EVs, including exosomes and microvesicles, are released by numerous cell types and are increasingly recognized as playing a critical role in cell–cell communication in age-related diseases, including OA. Treatment strategies for OA are being developed that target senescent cells and the paracrine and autocrine secretions of SASP. This article highlights the encouraging potential for MSC or MSC-derived products alone or in combination with senolytics to control patient symptoms and potentially mitigate the progression of OA. We will also explore the application of genomic principles to the study of OA and the potential for the discovery of OA phenotypes that can motivate more precise patient-driven treatments.
Clinicopathological Characteristics and Mutational Landscape of APC, HOXB13, and KRAS among Rwandan Patients with Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Manirakiza Felix , Rutaganda Eric , Yamada Hidetaka , Iwashita Yuji , Rugwizangoga Belson , Seminega Benoit , Dusabejambo Vincent , Ntakirutimana Gervais , Ruhangaza Deogratias , Uwineza Annette , Shinmura Kazuya , Sugimura Haruhiko
Published: May 2023

Cancer research in Rwanda is estimated to be less than 1% of the total African cancer research output with limited research on colorectal cancer (CRC). Rwandan patients with CRC are young, with more females being affected than males, and most patients present with advanced disease. Considering the paucity of oncological genetic studies in this population, we investigated the mutational status of CRC tissues, focusing on the Adenomatous polyposis coli (APC), Kirsten rat sarcoma (KRAS), and Homeobox B13 (HOXB13) genes. Our aim was to determine whether there were any differences between Rwandan patients and other populations. To do so, we performed Sanger sequencing of the DNA extracted from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded adenocarcinoma samples from 54 patients (mean age: 60 years). Most tumors were located in the rectum (83.3%), and 92.6% of the tumors were low-grade. Most patients (70.4%) reported never smoking, and 61.1% of patients had consumed alcohol. We identified 27 variants of APC, including 3 novel mutations (c.4310_4319delAAACACCTCC, c.4463_4470delinsA, and c.4506_4507delT). All three novel mutations are classified as deleterious by MutationTaster2021. We found four synonymous variants (c.330C>A, c.366C>T, c.513T>C, and c.735G>A) of HOXB13. For KRAS, we found six variants (Asp173, Gly13Asp, Gly12Ala, Gly12Asp, Gly12Val, and Gln61His), the last four of which are pathogenic. In conclusion, here we contribute new genetic variation data and provide clinicopathological information pertinent to CRC in Rwanda.
Mapping and Functional Analysis of QTL for Kernel Number per Row in Tropical and Temperate–Tropical Introgression Lines of Maize (Zea mays L.)
Authors: Wang Yuling , Bi Yaqi , Jiang Fuyan , Shaw Ranjan Kumar , Sun Jiachen , Hu Can , Guo Ruijia , Fan Xingming
Published: May 2023

Kernel number per row (KNR) is an essential component of maize (Zea mays L.) grain yield (GY), and understanding its genetic mechanism is crucial to improve GY. In this study, two F7 recombinant inbred line (RIL) populations were created using a temperate–tropical introgression line TML418 and a tropical inbred line CML312 as female parents and a backbone maize inbred line Ye107 as the common male parent. Bi-parental quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping and genome-wide association analysis (GWAS) were then performed on 399 lines of the two maize RIL populations for KNR in two different environments using 4118 validated single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers. This study aimed to: (1) detect molecular markers and/or the genomic regions associated with KNR; (2) identify the candidate genes controlling KNR; and (3) analyze whether the candidate genes are useful in improving GY. The authors reported a total of 7 QTLs tightly linked to KNR through bi-parental QTL mapping and identified 21 SNPs significantly associated with KNR through GWAS. Among these, a highly confident locus qKNR7-1 was detected at two locations, Dehong and Baoshan, with both mapping approaches. At this locus, three novel candidate genes (Zm00001d022202, Zm00001d022168, Zm00001d022169) were identified to be associated with KNR. These candidate genes were primarily involved in the processes related to compound metabolism, biosynthesis, protein modification, degradation, and denaturation, all of which were related to the inflorescence development affecting KNR. These three candidate genes were not reported previously and are considered new candidate genes for KNR. The progeny of the hybrid Ye107 × TML418 exhibited strong heterosis for KNR, which the authors believe might be related to qKNR7-1. This study provides a theoretical foundation for future research on the genetic mechanism underlying KNR in maize and the use of heterotic patterns to develop high-yielding hybrids.
Cyanobacteria Arthospira platensis as an Effective Tool for Gadolinium Removal from Wastewater
Authors: Yushin Nikita , Zinicovscaia Inga , Cepoi Liliana , Chiriac Tatiana , Rudi Ludmila , Grozdov Dmitrii
Published: May 2023

The biosorption and bioaccumulation of gadolinium by Arthospira platensis in batch experiments was examined. In biosorption experiments, the influence of pH, gadolinium concentration, time of contact and temperature on Arthospira platensis sorption capacity was investigated. The maximum biosorption capacity of 101 mg/g was attained at a pH of 3.0 and temperature of 20 °C. A pseudo-first-order model was applicable to describe the kinetics of the biosorption and the Freundlich model to explain the equilibrium of the process. In bioaccumulation experiments, besides the examination of the gadolinium uptake by Arthospira platensis, its effect on biomass productivity as well as the content of proteins, lipids, carbohydrates and pigments was assessed. The addition of gadolinium in the cultivation medium resulted in the increase in biomass productivity and the content of MDA and, at the same time, in the reduction in the amount of proteins and carbohydrates. The content of other monitored parameters did not change significantly. The water extracts obtained from Arthospira platensis showed a higher antiradical activity against the ABTS cation radical in comparison with ethanolic extracts. Arthospira platensis is of interest for the development of the technology of gadolinium-contaminated wastewater remediation.
Tunable Low-Threshold Optical Bistability in Optical Tamm Plasmon Superlattices
Authors: Li Fengyu , Xu Jiao , Li Wei , Li Jianbo , Peng Yuxiang , He Mengdong
Published: May 2023

We propose a scheme to obtain tunable low-threshold optical bistability of reflected beams in optical Tamm plasmon superlattices (TPS). The low-threshold optical bistability is triggered due to the strong third-order non-linearity of graphene and the local field enhancement in the TPS. Our results show that the optical Tamm plasmon superlattices have the ability to lower the bistable threshold even further than the single optical Tamm state. The results show that the hysteresis behavior and optical bistability threshold can be continuously adjusted by changing the applied voltage and the number of graphene layers (N ≤ 4). In particular, the optical bistability in the TPS is affected by the incident angle. Our results introduce a new possible route for low threshold optical bistability in the THz range and provide a new method in the field of all-optical switching applications.
Key Parameters and Optimal Design of a Split Induction Coil for T-Shaped Pipe Brazing
Authors: Zhang Zhenlin , Yang Ziheng , Xie Pu , Zhao Yue , Shan Jiguo , Liu Yan , Wu Aiping , Ma Sida , Zhang Lei , Chen Hui
Published: May 2023

The heat exchanger made up of several T-shaped joints is a critical component in energy equipment. A split induction coil was designed for T-shaped aluminum pipe brazing, and the Taguchi method was combined with multi-physical simulation to solve the multi-factor optimization of the split coil. The results showed that the multi-physical simulation model had high precision. The melting of filler metal was almost consistent with the spatial distribution of the temperature field, and the average simulation error was approximately 5.753 °C. The optimal coil parameters were obtained with a turn number of 3.5, a turn space of 7 mm, a heating distance of 15.6 mm, a coil diameter of 8 mm, and a coil length of 9 mm. Three well-formed T-shaped joints could be obtained at one time via the optimal split coil. During the induction brazing, the skin effects and the proximity effects induced a high magnetic field intensity around the joint, which had a significant relationship with the coil length and coil diameter. The high magnetic field intensity promoted a high eddy current density in this place, and as a result, the high Joule heat could be generated around the joint. In addition, the significant decrease in the heating rate at high temperatures promoted the homogenization of the temperature and the melting and filling of the filler metal as well as avoided local overheating.
Effect of Redox Switch, Coupling, and Continuous Polarization on the Anti-Corrosion Properties of PEDOT Film in NaCl Solution
Authors: Udowo Victor Malachy , Yan Maocheng , Liu Fuchun , Han En-Hou
Published: May 2023

Conjugated poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) film was electrochemically synthesized on stainless steel (SS). Redox interactions between the PEDOT film and the SS substrate were examined in 3.5 wt.% NaCl aqueous solution with the aid of electrochemical and spectroscopic analyses. The results show that the PEDOT film exhibited a barrier effect and mediated the oxygen reduction reaction, thus hindering ion diffusion to the steel substrate. Localized electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (LEIS) of the scratched area on the polymer film shows that PEDOT healed the defect by coupling with redox reactions on the steel surface to prevent charge localization and concentration. The electroactivity of the polymer film declined when PEDOT was polarized at potentials >−0.7 V. Prolonged exposure of the PEDOT film to dissolved oxygen in NaCl solution resulted in the polymer’s over-oxidation (degradation), evidenced by the formation of a carbonyl group in the spectroscopic result. The degradation of PEDOT was attributed to chain scissoring due to hydroxide ion attacks on the polymer chain.
The Influence of Iron Tailings Powder on the Properties on the Performances of Cement Concrete with Machine-Made Sand
Authors: Wang Lin , Du Genkun , He Xinxin , Wei Zicheng , Xu Yubo , Li Shuai , Liu Xuejuan
Published: May 2023

Iron tailings powder (ITP) is a kind of solid waste, which pollutes the environment, without any treatment. The application of ITP in cement concrete is a good choice. In this study, the influence of ITP on the flowability, compressive strength, chloride ion permeability and the attenuation of the performance of cement concrete during freeze–thaw cycle (F-T) damage are investigated. An X-ray diffraction, an analysis of the pores and a scanning electron microscope (SEM) are obtained to analyze the mechanism of cement concrete’s performance. The results show that the addition of ITP can decrease the flowability of fresh cement concrete. Cement concrete with a 7% ITP to mass ratio of the total aggregate shows the highest compressive strength and the minimum chloride ion permeability. The relative dynamic modulus of the elasticity of the specimens with 7% ITP during the F-T is the highest. The corresponding mass loss rate is the lowest. The mercury intrusion analysis results show that the pore volume of the specimens with 7% ITP is the lowest. The SEM results confirm that the specimens with 7% ITP show the densest microstructures.
Effect of Ball-Milled Feedstock Powder on Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Cu-Ni-Al-Al2O3 Composite Coatings by Cold Spraying
Authors: Liu Hongjin , Fu Mingkun , Pang Shaozhi , Zhu Huaiqing , Zhang Chen , Ming Lijun , Liu Xinyu , Ding Minghui , Fu Yudong
Published: May 2023

Cu, Ni and Al powders mixed in a certain stoichiometric proportion were ground via ball milling and deposited as coatings using low pressure cold spraying (LPCS) technology. The effect of particle morphology on the powder structure as well as the microstructure, composition and mechanical properties of the coatings was studied. The results revealed a core–shell structure of ball-milled powders. Compared with a mechanically mixed (MM) coating, coatings after ball milling at a rotation speed of 200 rpm exhibited the most uniform composition distribution and a lower degree of porosity (by 0.29%). Moreover, ball milling at 200 rpm was conducive to a significant increase in the deposition efficiency of the sprayed powder (by 10.89%), thereby improving the microhardness distribution uniformity. The ball milling treatment improved the adhesion of the coatings, and the adhesion of the composite coating increased to 40.29 MPa with the increase in ball milling speed. The dry sliding wear tests indicated that ball milling treatment of sprayed powder significantly improved the wear properties of the coatings. The coating after ball milling at a speed of 250 rpm showed the lowest friction coefficient and wear rate, with values of 0.41 and 2.47 × 10−12 m3/m, respectively. The wear mechanism of coatings changed from abrasive wear to adhesive wear with the increase in ball milling speed.
Investigation of the Microstructure and Wear Properties of Conventional Laser Cladding and Ultra-High-Speed Laser Cladding Alloy Coatings for Wheel Materials
Authors: Xiao Qian , Xia Jinlong , Gao Xueshan , Yang Wenbin , Chen Daoyun , Ding Haohao , Wang Yao
Published: May 2023

In this paper, Fe-based and Co-based alloy powders were chosen to perform laser cladding on wheel materials through conventional laser cladding (CLC) and ultra-high-speed laser cladding (UHSLC) processes, respectively. The microstructures, element distribution, phase composition and hardness of the Fe-based alloy and Co-based alloy coating layers using the CLC and UHSLC processes were compared and analysed. The results show that the CLC and UHSLC alloy coatings were dense and free of defects such as pores and cracks. Compared with the CLC alloy coating, the grain size of the UHSLC alloy coating was smaller, the coating composition was close to the powder design composition, and the distribution of Cr within and between the grains was more uniform. The Fe-based coating was mainly composed of (Fe, Ni) and Cr7C3, and the Co-based coating was mainly composed of γ-Co and Cr23C6. It was found that the cooling rate of the CLC alloy coating was smaller than that of the USHLC, and the hardness of the CLC alloy coating was less than that of the USHLC. The average hardness of the UHSLC Fe-based and Co-based alloy coatings was 709 HV and 525 HV, respectively. The average hardness of the CLC Fe-based and Co-based alloy coatings was 615 HV and 493 HV, respectively. The rolling friction and wear tests were carried out with the CLC-treated and UHSLC-treated wheel specimens on the GPM-30 rolling contact fatigue testing machine. The results showed that the wear rate of the UHSLC alloy coating on the wheel specimens was significantly lower than that of the CLC alloy coating on the wheel specimens. The wear rates of the UHSLC Fe-based and Co-based alloy coatings on the wheel specimens were reduced by 40.7% and 73.8%, respectively. It was demonstrated that the wear resistance of the USHLC alloy coatings was better than those of the CLC alloy coatings. The CLC alloy coating exhibited more severe fatigue damage with small cracks. Furthermore, the damage of the UHSLC alloy coating was relatively minor, with slight spalling. The Co-based alloy coating exhibited superior wear properties with the same laser cladding process.
Integrated Analysis by GC/MS and 13C NMR of Moroccan Cladanthus mixtus Essential Oil; Identification of Uncommon Epoxyfarnesanes
Authors: El Hafidi Souad , Bakhy Khadija , Ouhssine Mohammed , Benzakour Abderrahim , Casanova Joseph , Paoli Mathieu , Tomi Félix
Published: May 2023

Cladanthus mixtus (L.) Chevall., Asteraceae, also known as Moroccan chamomile, is a spontaneous, annual plant growing wild in North-Western Morocco. Economically, the essential oil of C. mixtus is of high interest, Morocco being the only supplier on the international market. Two essential oil samples (EO) were isolated from aerial parts of Cladanthus mixtus (L.) Chevall., and analyzed by a combination of chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques (gas chromatography (GC) in combination with retention indices (RI), gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS), and 13C NMR spectroscopy). Computer matching against the in-house 13C NMR library allowed the identification of the eight components at appreciable contents, namely 3,6,6,9-bis-epoxy-farnesa-1,7(14),10-triene, and its 3-epi, 9-epi, and 3,9-diepi epimers, and 6,9-epoxy-farnesa-1,7(14),10-trien-3-ol and its 3-epi, 6-epi, and 3,6-diepi epimers. Our results confirm the tremendous chemical variability of Moroccan C. mixtus essential oil and the usefulness of 13C NMR analysis, in combination with GC(RI), for the identification of uncommon oxygenated sesquiterpenes that induce an original composition.
Peer-to-Peer Federated Learning for COVID-19 Detection Using Transformers
Authors: Chetoui Mohamed , Akhloufi Moulay A.
Published: May 2023

The simultaneous advances in deep learning and the Internet of Things (IoT) have benefited distributed deep learning paradigms. Federated learning is one of the most promising frameworks, where a server works with local learners to train a global model. The intrinsic heterogeneity of IoT devices, or non-independent and identically distributed (Non-I.I.D.) data, combined with the unstable communication network environment, causes a bottleneck that slows convergence and degrades learning efficiency. Additionally, the majority of weight averaging-based model aggregation approaches raise questions about learning fairness. In this paper, we propose a peer-to-peer federated learning (P2PFL) framework based on Vision Transformers (ViT) models to help solve some of the above issues and classify COVID-19 vs. normal cases on Chest-X-Ray (CXR) images. Particularly, clients jointly iterate and aggregate the models in order to build a robust model. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed approach is capable of significantly improving the performance of the model with an Area Under Curve (AUC) of 0.92 and 0.99 for hospital-1 and hospital-2, respectively.
Ultrafast Mechanism of Material Removal in the Femtosecond Laser Ablation of WS2 and Its Diode Rectification Characteristics
Authors: Wang Kai , Chen Zhicheng , Wu Xu , Pan Changji , Wang Feifei , Wang Jiaxing , Zhang Ke , Yang Yang , Sun Jingya
Published: May 2023

The study investigates the two different underlying ablation mechanisms of WS2 processed by femtosecond (fs) laser with different fluences. With increasing fluence, the saturable expansion of craters and the transformation of three distinct crater morphologies are found. The material response and the transfer and deposition of laser energy are tracked by using a plasma model based on the classical single rate equation model and the Drude model. The results of the numerical simulation and time-resolved transient reflectivity reveal the two different ablation mechanisms, which are coulomb explosion and phase explosion. The mechanism of material removal is distinguished by the critical threshold of 0.85 J/cm2. In addition, the internal ablation region exhibits a high concentration of defects and WO3 according to the results of Raman spectra, X-ray photoelectron spectra, and morphology-dependent photoluminescence mapping. Due to the high concentration with high fluence, the device of WS2/Si p-n junction exhibits a 2.6 times enhancement on the current under forward bias. The findings would be of value to engineer structures to tailor the optoelectronic response of WS2 and to develop potential future optoelectronic devices.
Effects of Antibody Response after Booster Vaccination on SARS-CoV-2 Breakthrough Infections and Disease Outcomes in Advanced Cancer Patients: A Prospective Analysis of the Vax-on-Third Study
Authors: Nelli Fabrizio , Fabbri Agnese , Virtuoso Antonella , Giannarelli Diana , Giron Berrios Julio Rodrigo , Marrucci Eleonora , Fiore Cristina , Schirripa Marta , Signorelli Carlo , Chilelli Mario Giovanni , Primi Francesca , Pessina Gloria , Natoni Federica , Silvestri Maria Assunta , Ruggeri Enzo Maria
Published: May 2023

(1) Background: The clinical implications of COVID-19 outbreaks following SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in immunocompromised recipients are a worldwide concern. Cancer patients on active treatment remain at an increased risk of developing breakthrough infections because of waning immunity and the emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants. There is a paucity of data on the effects of COVID-19 outbreaks on long-term survival outcomes in this population. (2) Methods: We enrolled 230 cancer patients who were on active treatment for advanced disease and had received booster dosing of an mRNA-BNT162b2 vaccine as part of the Vax-On-Third trial between September 2021 and October 2021. Four weeks after the third immunization, IgG antibodies against the spike receptor domain of SARS-CoV-2 were tested in all patients. We prospectively evaluated the incidence of breakthrough infections and disease outcomes. The coprimary endpoints were the effects of antibody titers on the development of breakthrough infections and the impact of COVID-19 outbreaks on cancer treatment failure. (3) Results: At a median follow-up of 16.3 months (95% CI 14.5–17.0), 85 (37%) patients developed SARS-CoV-2 infection. Hospitalization was required in 11 patients (12.9%) and only 2 (2.3%) deaths related to COVID-19 outbreaks were observed. Median antibody titers were significantly lower in breakthrough cases than in non-cases (291 BAU/mL (95% CI 210–505) vs. 2798 BAU/mL (95% CI 2323–3613), p < 0.001). A serological titer cut-off below 803 BAU/mL was predictive of breakthrough infection. In multivariate testing, antibody titers and cytotoxic chemotherapy were independently associated with an increased risk of outbreaks. Time-to-treatment failure after booster dosing was significantly shorter in patients who contracted SARS-CoV-2 infection (3.1 months (95% CI 2.3–3.6) vs. 16.2 months (95% CI 14.3–17.0), p < 0.001) and had an antibody level below the cut-off (3.6 months (95% CI 3.0–4.5) vs. 14.6 months (95% CI 11.9–16.3), p < 0.001). A multivariate Cox regression model confirmed that both covariates independently had a worsening effect on time-to-treatment failure. (4) Conclusions: These data support the role of vaccine boosters in preventing the incidence and severity of COVID-19 outbreaks. Enhanced humoral immunity after the third vaccination significantly correlates with protection against breakthrough infections. Strategies aimed at restraining SARS-CoV-2 transmission in advanced cancer patients undergoing active treatment should be prioritized to mitigate the impact on disease outcomes.
Detection Rate of Prostate Cancer in Repeat Biopsy after an Initial Negative Magnetic Resonance Imaging/Ultrasound-Guided Biopsy
Authors: Görtz Magdalena , Huber Ann-Kathrin , Linz Tim , Schwab Constantin , Stenzinger Albrecht , Goertz Lukas , Bonekamp David , Schlemmer Heinz-Peter , Hohenfellner Markus
Published: May 2023

A negative multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI)-guided prostate biopsy in patients with suspected prostate cancer (PC) results in clinical uncertainty, as the biopsy can be false negative. The clinical challenge is to determine the optimal follow-up and to select patients who will benefit from repeat biopsy. In this study, we evaluated the rate of significant PC (sPC, Gleason score ≥7) and PC detection in patients who received a follow-up mpMRI/ultrasound-guided biopsy for persistent PC suspicion after a negative mpMRI/ultrasound-guided biopsy. We identified 58 patients at our institution that underwent repeat targeted biopsy in case of PI-RADS lesions and systematic saturation biopsy between 2014 and 2022. At the initial biopsy, the median age was 59 years, and the median prostate specific antigen level was 6.7 ng/mL. Repeat biopsy after a median of 18 months detected sPC in 3/58 (5%) patients and Gleason score 6 PC in 11/58 (19%). Among 19 patients with a downgraded PI-RADS score at the follow-up mpMRI, none had sPC. In conclusion, men with an initial negative mpMRI/ultrasound-guided biopsy had a high likelihood of not harboring sPC at repeat biopsy (95%). Due to the small size of the study, further research is recommended.
Bronchoscopy Findings during Percutaneous Dilation Tracheostomy: A Single Tertiary Medical Center Experience
Authors: Chang Ko-Wei , Fang Hsin-Yueh
Published: May 2023

Percutaneous dilation tracheostomy (PDT) is a common procedure in intensive care units. Bronchoscopy has been recommended to guide PDT to decrease complication rates, but no study has analyzed bronchoscopy outcomes during PDT. In this retrospective study, we analyzed bronchoscopy findings and clinical outcomes during PDT. We collected data on all patients who underwent PDT between May 2018 and February 2021. All PDT operations were guided by bronchoscopy, and we assessed the airway to the third order of the bronchi. Forty-one patients who underwent PDT were included in this study. The average duration of PDT was 102.8 ± 34.6 s, and the average duration of bronchoscopy was 49.8 ± 43.8 s. No complications related to bronchoscopy and no significant changes in gas exchange or ventilator parameters were noted after the procedure. Fifteen patients (36.6%) exhibited abnormal bronchoscopy findings, including two patients (13.3%) with intra-airway mass lesions and obvious airway obstruction. None of the patients with intra-airway masses could be liberated from mechanical ventilation. This study observed a non-negligibly high incidence of unexpected endotracheal or endobronchial masses in patients with chronic respiratory failure during PDT, and a high rate of weaning failure was noted in these patients. The completion of bronchoscopy during PDT may provide additional clinical benefits.
Prognosis and Nomogram Prediction for Patients with Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Cohort Study
Authors: Zhang Xin-Yuan , Xie Shang , Wang Dian-Can , Shan Xiao-Feng , Cai Zhi-Gang
Published: May 2023

The TNM staging system is often used to predict the prognosis of patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). However, we have found that patients under the same TNM staging may exhibit tremendous differences in survival rates. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the prognosis of postoperative OSCC patients, establish a nomogram survival prediction model, and verify its effectiveness. Operative logs were reviewed for patients who underwent surgical treatment for OSCC at the Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology. Patient demographic and surgical records were obtained, and they were followed up for overall survival (OS). A total of 432 patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma were included in the study, with a median follow-up time of 47 months. Based on the results of the Cox regression analysis, we constructed and verified the nomogram prediction model, which includes gender, BMI, OPMDs, pain score, SCC grade, and N stage. The C-index value of the 3-year and 5-year prediction models was 0.782 and 0.770, respectively, proving that the model has a certain level of prediction stability. The new nomogram prediction model has potential clinical significance for predicting the postoperative survival of OSCC patients.
Impact of Serum Lactate as an Early Serum Biomarker for Cardiopulmonary Parameters within the First 24 Hours of Intensive Care Unit Treatment in Patients with Isolated Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Bender Michael , Friedrich Michaela , Voigtmann Hans , Haferkorn Kristin , Uhl Eberhard , Stein Marco
Published: May 2023

Objective: Cardiopulmonary (CP) complications are well-known phenomena in patients with isolated traumatic brain injury (iTBI) that can lead to tissue hypoperfusion and hypoxia. Serum lactate level is a well-known biomarker, indicating these systemic dysregulations in various diseases, but this has not been investigated in iTBI patients so far. The current study evaluates the association between serum lactate levels upon admission and CP parameters within the first 24 h of intensive care unit (ICU) treatment in iTBI patients. Patients and Methods: 182 patients with iTBI who were admitted to our neurosurgical ICU between December 2014 and December 2016 were retrospectively evaluated. Serum lactate levels on admission, demographic, medical, and radiological data upon admission, as well as several CP parameters within the first 24 h of ICU treatment, were analyzed, as well as the functional outcome at discharge. The total study population was dichotomized into patients with an elevated serum lactate level (lactate-positive) and patients with a low serum lactate level (lactate-negative) upon admission. Results: 69 patients (37.9%) had an elevated serum lactate level upon admission, which was significantly associated with a lower Glasgow Coma Scale score (p = 0.04), a higher head AIS score (p = 0.03), and a higher Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score (p = 0.01) upon admission, as well as a higher modified Rankin Scale score (p = 0.002) and a lower Glasgow Outcome Scale score (p < 0.0001) at discharge. Furthermore, the lactate-positive group required a significantly higher norepinephrine application rate (NAR; p = 0.04) and a higher fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2; p = 0.04) to maintain the defined CP parameters within the first 24 h. Conclusion: ICU-admitted iTBI patients with elevated serum lactate levels upon admission required higher CP support within the first 24 h of ICU treatment after iTBI. Serum lactate may be a helpful biomarker for improving ICU treatment in the early stages.
Microwave Humidity Sensor for Early Detection of Sweat and Urine Leakage
Authors: Su Lijuan , Vélez Paris , Casacuberta Pau , Muñoz-Enano Jonathan , Martín Ferran
Published: May 2023

A planar microwave sensor devoted to the detection of humidity in underwear and clothes in general is proposed. The ultimate goal of the sensor is to detect the presence of liquids in fabrics, which is of interest to aid patients who suffer from certain pathologies, such as hyperhidrosis and enuresis. The main target in the design of the sensor, considering the envisaged application, is simplicity. Thus, the sensor operates at a single frequency, and the working principle is the variation in the magnitude of the transmission coefficient of a matched line loaded with an open-ended quarter-wavelength sensing stub resonator. The stub, which must be in contact with the so-called fabric under test (FUT), generates a notch in the transmission coefficient with a resonance frequency that depends on the humidity level of the fabric. By designing the stub with a moderately high-quality factor, the variation in the resonance frequency causes a significant change in the magnitude level at the operating frequency, which is the resonance frequency when the sensing stub is loaded with the dry fabric, and the presence of liquid can be detected by means of an amplitude detector. A prototype device is proposed and experimentally validated. The measured change in the magnitude level by simply depositing one 50 μL drop of water in the FUT is roughly 25 dB.
Designing a Fuzzy Adaptive Neural Network Leveraging a Feature Self-Enhancement Unit and Statistical Selection Methods
Authors: Wang Zhen , Fu Zunwei
Published: May 2023

In this study, we propose an advanced category of a fuzzy adaptive neural network (FANN) based on a feature self-enhancement unit (FSU) and statistical selection methods (SSMs). Undoubtedly, the raw data contain a large amount of information with varying importance. One of the most important tasks for regression model design is to avoid losing these important details. However, the raw data cannot participate in the whole training process due to the data fuzzification unit in the structure of conventional fuzzy neural networks (FNNs). Meanwhile, the polynomial-based neuron also has its limitations as a common node in FNNs. For example, in the polynomial neuron, the complexity of the neurons increases exponentially with the increase in network size. Consequently, overfitting and insufficient raw data information are two primary drawbacks in the structure of conventional FNNs. To address these limitations, we designed the FSU and the SSM as effective vehicles to reduce data dimensionality and select significant raw information. The proposed FANN also demonstrates the capability to improve modeling accuracy in neural networks. Moreover, this is the first instance of integrating statistical methods and feature self-enhancement techniques into a fuzzy model. To validate and showcase the superiority of the proposed FANN, the model is applied to 16 machine learning datasets, outperforming other comparative models in 81.25% of the datasets utilized. Additionally, the proposed FANN model outperformed the latest FNN models, achieving an average 5.1% increase in modeling accuracy. The comparison experiment section not only includes classical machine learning models but also references the experimental results from two recent related studies.
Forecasting Carbon Dioxide Emissions of Light-Duty Vehicles with Different Machine Learning Algorithms
Authors: Natarajan Yuvaraj , Wadhwa Gitanjali , Sri Preethaa K. R. , Paul Anand
Published: May 2023

Accurate estimation of fuel consumption and emissions is crucial for assessing the impact of materials and stringent emission control techniques on climate change, particularly in the transportation industry, which accounts for a significant portion of global greenhouse gases and hazardous pollutants emissions. To address these concerns, the government of Canada has collected a large sensor-based dataset containing detailed information on 7384 light-duty vehicles from 2017 to 2021, with the goal of reducing CO2 emissions by 40–45% by 2030. To this end, various researchers worldwide have developed vehicle emissions and consumption models to comply with these targets and achieve the Canadian government’s ambitious objectives. In this work, we propose the development of boosting and other regression models to predict carbon dioxide emissions for light-duty vehicle designs, with the aim of creating ensemble learning models that leverage vehicle specifications to forecast emissions. Our proposed boosting model is capable of accurately predicting CO2 emissions, even with only one car attribute as input. Moreover, our regression models, in conjunction with the boosting algorithm, can effectively make predictions from various vehicle inputs. Our proposed technique, categorical boosting (Catboost), provides critical insights into transportation-generated air pollution, offering valuable recommendations for both vehicle users and manufacturers. Importantly, Catboost performs data processing in less time and with less memory than other algorithms proposed in the literature. Future research efforts should focus on developing higher performance models and expanding datasets to further improve the accuracy of predictions.
Localization and Sizing of Distributed Generation through a Genetic Algorithm to Improve Voltage Profile Using Ecuadorian Standards
Authors: Calvachi David , Tipán Luis , Jaramillo Manuel
Published: May 2023

The approach proposed for the development of this research work was based on the integration of Distributed Energy Generation (DG) into an energy distribution network, improving the voltage profile by establishing an optimal location and sizing of DG power plants, for which the use of a heuristic optimization method known as Genetic Algorithm (GA), which has several restrictions to limit its operation and thus achieve an optimal solution to the planned optimization problem, was resorted to. The development of a power flow allowed having the voltage measurement in the bars of the network before incorporating DG, allowing to verify that the voltage fluctuations present an improvement after the incorporation one by one of each DG central defined by the GA. The systems in which the voltage measurement was performed, as well as the verification of its fluctuations with and without DG once the GA was used, were the IEEE systems of 9 and 14 busbars, the latter the one used to demonstrate the scalability of the GA to locate and dimension DG without considering the number of busbars in a system.
The Influence of a Photometric Distance on Luminance Measurements
Authors: Czyżewski Dariusz
Published: May 2023

Luminance measurements are the least frequent of all photometric measurements. This article characterizes and systematizes the various methods of luminance measurement. In particular, the method of direct luminance measurement using modern luminance meters (ILMD) is described in detail. This paper presents the results of the study on the influence of the measurement distance on the luminance measurement results. Two ILMD meters (laboratory and portable) and a luminance standard were used in this study. The conducted research showed that an incorrectly chosen measuring distance can lead to significant measurement errors of up to several tens of percent. In addition, the possible impact of incorrect measurements on the design of an interior lighting installation was presented. It was shown that the selected interior lighting installation can consume more than 40 percent more electricity compared to the installation based on the correct luminance measurements of the luminaires with diffuse shades. In the final stage of the study, the definition of the photometric test distance for luminance measurements using ILMD was proposed. The test results can be particularly useful for the luminance measurements of OLEDs or the luminaires with diffuse luminous character. However, these results can also be used for luminance measurements of other light sources and luminaires.
Virtual Forest Bathing Programming as Experienced by Disabled Adults with Mobility Impairments and/or Low Energy: A Qualitative Study
Authors: McEwan Kirsten , Krogh Kari S. , Dunlop Kim , Khan Mahnoor , Krogh Alyssa
Published: May 2023

Background: Although access to nature is demonstrated to benefit health and wellbeing, adults with mobility impairments and/or low energy often face barriers in accessing nature environments and nature-based programs. This study aimed to examine the experiences and impacts of virtual forest bathing by capturing the perspectives of disabled adults with mobility impairments and/or low energy. Methods: A total of 26 adults with mobility impairments provided written and spoken qualitative feedback during and following virtual forest bathing programs and 23 participants provided feedback at a one month follow-up. Virtual programs were presented online, using an accessible format, 2D videos, and images of nature accompanied by guidance led by a certified forest bathing guide and mindfulness teacher. The programs involved disabled facilitators and participants, which created a social environment of peer support. Results: Qualitative thematic analysis revealed 10 themes comprising intervention themes (virtual delivery and soothing facilitation); process themes (nature connection, relaxation, embodiment, and memories with complex emotions); and outcome themes (happiness, agency, metaphor making, and belonging). Conclusions: Virtual forest bathing may offer an effective adjunct to improve wellbeing and provide peer support for disabled adults with mobility impairments and/or low energy.
Effect of Processing Technology, Nanomaterial and Coupling Agent Ratio on Some Physical, Mechanical, and Thermal Properties of Wood Polymer Nanocomposites
Authors: Birinci Emre , Kaymakci Alperen
Published: May 2023

The goal of this study is to find out how some properties of wood–polymer nanocomposites are affected by the processing technology, the nanomaterials, and the ratio of coupling agents. To achieve this objective, the extruded and dry blended samples are made from wood flour with MAPP, ZnO nanoparticles (0, 1, 3, and 5 wt%), and polypropylene. The mechanical properties of the nanocomposites improve significantly with ZnO and MAPP loading. Due to the more homogeneous structure of nanocomposites, better mechanical results are obtained with the extrusion method. With ZnO and MAPP loading, the thermal stability of nanocomposites improves. The storage and loss modulus values indicate that the processing technology of nanocomposites could be a key factor in the resistance of the materials obtained by extrusion. The storage and loss modulus of nanocomposites manufactured by the extrusion technology are determined to be higher than those of the samples produced using the dry blending method.