bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Melatonin Improves Skeletal Muscle Structure and Oxidative Phenotype by Regulating Mitochondrial Dynamics and Autophagy in Zücker Diabetic Fatty Rat
Authors: Salagre Diego , Raya Álvarez Enrique , Cendan Cruz Miguel , Aouichat Samira , Agil Ahmad
Published: July 2023

Obesity-induced skeletal muscle (SKM) inflexibility is closely linked to mitochondrial dysfunction. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of melatonin on the red vastus lateralis (RVL) muscle in obese rat models at the molecular and morphological levels. Five-week-old male Zücker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats and their age-matched lean littermates (ZL) were orally treated either with melatonin (10 mg/kg body weight (BW)/24 h) (M–ZDF and M–ZL) or non-treated (control) (C–ZDF and C–ZL) for 12 weeks. Western blot analysis showed that mitochondrial fission, fusion, and autophagy were altered in the C-ZDF group, accompanied by reduced SIRT1 levels. Furthermore, C-ZDF rats exhibited depleted ATP production and nitro-oxidative stress, as indicated by increased nitrites levels and reduced SOD activity. Western blotting of MyH isoforms demonstrated a significant decrease in both slow and fast oxidative fiber-specific markers expression in the C-ZDF group, concomitant with an increase in the fast glycolytic fiber markers. At the tissue level, marked fiber atrophy, less oxidative fibers, and excessive lipid deposition were noted in the C-ZDF group. Interestingly, melatonin treatment partially restored mitochondrial fission/fusion imbalance in the RVL muscle by enhancing the expression of fission (Fis1 and DRP1) markers and decreasing that of fusion (OPA1 and Mfn2) markers. It was also found to restore autophagy, as indicated by increased p62 protein level and LC3BII/I ratio. In addition, melatonin treatment increased SIRT1 protein level, mitochondrial ATP production, and SOD activity and decreased nitrites production. These effects were associated with enhanced oxidative phenotype, as evidenced by amplified oxidative fiber-specific markers expression, histochemical reaction for NADH enzyme, and muscular lipid content. In this study, we showed that melatonin might have potential therapeutic implications for obesity-induced SKM metabolic inflexibility among patients with obesity and T2DM.
Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Oxidative Effects of Polysaccharides Extracted from Unripe Carica papaya L. Fruit
Authors: Lin Ting-Yun , Wu Yun-Ting , Chang Hui-Ju , Huang Chun-Chen , Cheng Kuan-Chen , Hsu Hsien-Yi , Hsieh Chang-Wei
Published: July 2023

This study evaluated the antioxidative and anti-inflammatory activities of polysaccharides extracted from unripe Carica papaya L. (papaya) fruit. Three papaya polysaccharide (PP) fractions, namely PP-1, PP-2, and PP-3, with molecular weights of 2252, 2448, and 3741 kDa, containing abundant xylose, galacturonic acid, and mannose constituents, respectively, were obtained using diethylaminoethyl–Sepharose™ anion exchange chromatography. The antioxidant capacity of the PPs, hydroxyl radical scavenging assay, ferrous ion-chelating assay, and reducing power assay revealed that the PP-3 fraction had the highest antioxidant activity, with an EC50 (the concentration for 50% of the maximal effect) of 0.96 mg/mL, EC50 of 0.10 mg/mL, and Abs700 nm of 1.581 for the hydroxyl radical scavenging assay, ferrous ion-chelating assay, and reducing power assay, respectively. In addition, PP-3 significantly decreased reactive oxygen species production by 45.3%, NF-κB activation by 32.0%, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-6 generation by 33.5% and 34.4%, respectively, in H2O2-induced human epidermal keratinocytes. PP-3 exerts potent antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects; thus, it is a potential biofunctional ingredient in the cosmetic industry.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Olive Leaf Extract and Its Bioactive Compounds Oleacin and Oleuropein-Aglycone on Senescent Endothelial and Small Airway Epithelial Cells
Authors: Silvestrini Andrea , Giordani Chiara , Bonacci Sonia , Giuliani Angelica , Ramini Deborah , Matacchione Giulia , Sabbatinelli Jacopo , Di Valerio Silvia , Pacetti Deborah , Procopio Antonio Domenico , Procopio Antonio , Rippo Maria Rita
Published: July 2023

Olive tree by-products have been deeply studied as an invaluable source of bioactive compounds. Several in vitro and in vivo studies showed that olive leaf extract (OLE) has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Here, we wanted to assess the valuable benefits of two less-studied OLE components—3,4-DHPEA-EDA (Oleacin, OC) and 3,4-DHPEA-EA (Oleuropein-Aglycone, OA)—directly purified from OLE using a cost-effective and environmentally sustainable method, in line with the principles of circular economy. OLE, OC and OA were then tested in human cellular models involved in acute and chronic inflammation and in the pathogenesis of viral infections, i.e., lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated monocyte/macrophages (THP-1) and endothelial cells (HUVECs), senescent HUVECs and Poly(I:C)-treated small airway epithelial cells (hSAECs). Results showed that OC and OA are efficient in ameliorating almost all of the pro-inflammatory readouts (IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-8, ICAM, VCAM) and reducing the release of IL-6 in all the cellular models. In hSAECs, they also modulate the expression of SOD2, NF-kB and also ACE2 and TMPRSS2, whose expression is required for SARS-CoV-2 virus entry. Overall, these data suggest the usefulness of OLE, OC and OA in controlling or preventing inflammatory responses, in particular those associated with viral respiratory infections and aging.
Insight into the Antioxidant Activity of 1,8-Dihydroxynaphthalene Allomelanin Nanoparticles
Authors: Mavridi-Printezi Alexandra , Mollica Fabio , Lucernati Rosa , Montalti Marco , Amorati Riccardo
Published: July 2023

Melanins are stable and non-toxic pigments with great potential as chemopreventive agents against oxidative stress for medical and cosmetic applications. Allomelanin is a class of nitrogen-free melanin often found in fungi. The artificial allomelanin obtained by the polymerization of 1,8-dihydroxynaphthalene (DHN), poly-DHN (PDHN), has been recently indicated as a better radical quencher than polydopamine (PDA), a melanin model obtained by the polymerization of dopamine (DA); however, the chemical mechanisms underlying this difference are unclear. Here we investigate, by experimental and theoretical methods, the ability of PDHN nanoparticles (PDHN-NP), in comparison to PDA-NP, to trap alkylperoxyl (ROO•) and hydroperoxyl (HOO•) radicals that are involved in the propagation of peroxidation in real conditions. Our results demonstrate that PDHN-NP present a higher antioxidant efficiency with respect to PDA-NP against ROO• in water at pH 7.4 and against mixed ROO• and HOO• in acetonitrile, showing catalytic cross-termination activity. The antioxidant capacity of PDHN-NP in water is 0.8 mmol/g (ROO• radicals quenched by 1 g of PDHN-NP), with a rate constant of 3 × 105 M−1 s−1 for each reactive moiety. Quantum-mechanical calculations revealed that, thanks to the formation of a H-bond network, the quinones in PDHN-NP have a high affinity for H-atoms, thus justifying the high reactivity of PDHN-NP with HOO• observed experimentally.
Inhibition of Endothelial Inflammatory Response by HT-C6, a Hydroxytyrosol Alkyl Ether Derivative
Authors: Marrero Ana Dácil , Castilla Laura , Bernal Manuel , Manrique Inmaculada , Posligua-García Joel D. , Moya-Utrera Federico , Porras-Alcalá Cristina , Espartero José Luis , Sarabia Francisco , Quesada Ana R. , Medina Miguel Ángel , Martínez-Poveda Beatriz
Published: July 2023

Hydroxytyrosol (HT) is a bioactive phenolic compound naturally present in olives and extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) which is described as an antioxidant, antitumoral and antiangiogenic molecule. Previous studies of semi-synthetic HT-derivatives presented the hydroxytyrosyl alkyl ether HT-C6 as one of the most potent derivatives studied in the context of antioxidant, anti-platelet and antiangiogenic assays, but its direct effect on inflammation was not reported. In this work, we use RT-qPCR measure of gene expression, protein analysis by Western-blot and immunofluorescence techniques, adhesion and migration functional assays and single-cell monitoring of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in order to explore in vitro the ability of HT-C6 to interfere in the inflammatory response of endothelial cells (ECs). Our results showed that HT-C6 strongly reduces the TNF-α-induced expression of vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM1), intercellular cell adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM1), E-selectin (SELE), C-C motif chemokine ligand 2 and 5 (CCL2 and CCL5) in HUVECs, impairing the chemotactic and adhesion potential of these cells towards THP-1 monocytes in vitro. In this work, we define a mechanism of action underlying the anti-inflammatory effect of HT-C6, which involves the abrogation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) pathway activation in ECs. These results, together with the ability of HT-C6 to reduce ROS formation in ECs, point to this compound as a promising HT-derivative to be tested in the treatment of atherosclerosis.
Open-Plan Offices: Comparison of Methods for Measuring Psychoacoustic Intelligibility Parameters
Authors: Serrano-Ruiz María P. , Yarza-Acuna José A. , Martinez-Gomez Erwin A. , Ibarra-Mejía Gabriel
Published: July 2023

The acoustic conditions of open-plan office spaces influence the well-being and productivity perceived by users. However, with an inadequate evaluation of the workspace, acoustic design in open-plan offices can be a factor that alters user performance. Such is the case in Mexico, where there are no adequate standards to evaluate specific acoustic conditions such as intelligibility. For this reason, this case study aims to evaluate different types of measurement methods for intelligibility. This study was carried out at a university in northern Mexico. The sound measurements were based on the Mexican standard for noise analysis and the ISO 3382-part 3 standards for acoustic measurements for open-plan offices. The psychoacoustic parameters evaluated were reverberation and intelligibility, using objective methods determined on S/N and subjective methods based on loss of consonant, where it was analyzed the distance between the sound source and zones classified by building design characteristics. The results indicated at which points the intelligibility effects increased. We also observed that reverberation remained stable in this office and that the subjective methods presented a larger measured sound effect than the objective methods. This finding establishes that subjective methods conform to Lognormal behavior, which is applicable to other linguistic elements describing speech behavior.
Performance Evaluation of a Quadcopter by an Optimized Proportional–Integral–Derivative Controller
Authors: Chen Joy Iong-Zong , Lin Hsin-Yu
Published: July 2023

This paper presents an analysis of a quadcopter’s stability and its sensors’ data reading using an IMU (inertial measurement unit). Firstly, the angular velocity and acceleration data are read by an Stm® development board embedded with an Stm32f401ccu6 microcontroller. The altitude of the measurement instrument platform was determined using an MS5611 barometric pressure sensor combined with a temperature sensor. The quadcopter’s control was achieved by connecting a brushless DC motor to the Stm® board, which received four PWM (pulse-width modulation) signals via the output port. An electronic governor was utilized to control the brushless DC motor, while a pre-existing remote control was designated as the transmitter. The quadcopter receiver received a 2.4 GHz signal from the transmitter using the BLE (Bluetooth low-energy) protocol, which was used to ensure the simultaneous operation of the four brushless DC motors. Finally, a PID (proportional–integral–derivative) controller was employed for parameter adjustment. The collected PID parameter program was developed in the Simulink software as a simulation platform, allowing for the execution of the Simulink model on the Stm® MCU. The Stm® module facilitates monitoring of the performance of the UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) and enables immediate parameter adjustments to ensure flight stability. This research aims to reduce calculation errors in sensor and controller usage and improve the efficacy of the remote machine module for future industrial applications.
Design of Control Elements in Virtual Reality—Investigation of Factors Influencing Operating Efficiency, User Experience, Presence, and Workload
Authors: Hinricher Niels , Schröer Chris , Backhaus Claus
Published: July 2023

Virtual reality (VR) enables prototypes of devices to be evaluated in a simulation of a future usage environment. A disadvantage is the insufficient feedback design during the interaction with prototypes. In this study, we investigated how virtual control elements in VR must be designed to compensate for the lack of feedback. Therefore, 35 participants performed VR tasks using a virtual joystick and virtual rotary control. According to the design of experiments method, 12 factors, such as haptic feedback, sensitivity, size, and shape, were systematically varied. The control accuracy, task time, user experience, presence, and mental workload were recorded. The effect of a factor on the recorded parameters was examined using multifactorial ANOVA. Linear regression was used to calculate the mathematical models between the factors and parameters. These models were used to calculate the optimal design of the control elements in the VR. For rotary control, eight factors had a significant influence on the recorded parameters. There were seven factors for the joystick. With mathematical models, optimized control element designs for VR were calculated for the first time. These findings can help to better adapt prototypes and human–machine interfaces to different modalities in VR.
Tensegrity Applications to Architecture, Engineering and Robotics: A Review
Authors: Gomez-Jauregui Valentin , Carrillo-Rodriguez Angela , Manchado Cristina , Lastra-Gonzalez Pedro
Published: July 2023

Tensegrity structures are prestressed and self-stable pin-connected frameworks built up mainly from two kind of elements, in compression (bars) and in tension (tendons). It has been 75 years since the first official appearance of tensegrity, although the present paper includes proof that states that they are in fact more than 100 years old. Throughout these years, tensegrity structures have been capturing engineers’, architects’ and artists’ attention with their peculiar properties. In the last decade, new applications have been found based on tensegrity, although there are not any compilations about them. This paper aims to fill this gap by giving an overview of all the recent real applications that tensegrity has had during its short life, at the same time exposing its potential in all the fields it has contributed to (AEC, robotics, space, etc.) The methodology for performing this review has been revisiting the most relevant publications in several scientific databases. This has led to a new discovery: the first cable-dome by Snelson. As a conclusion, tensegrity has been providing useful solutions to previous problems since they have appeared, but their potential can still grow in an exponential way due to the new technologies and discoveries of the last decade.
Model-Based Adaptive Collaboration of Multi-Terminal Internal Force Tracking
Authors: Wang Zhala , Dai Jingmin , Song Fei
Published: July 2023

This paper proposes a multi-terminal adaptive collaborative operation method for solving the problem of unstable internal force tracking in the clamping and handling of unknown objects by multi-terminal robots. In the proposed method, the internal command force changes the complex internal force control problem into an internal force tracking problem from multi-slave to master. Moreover, we develop an algorithm for multi-slave setups to estimate the object stiffness and motion uncertainty in the direction of the internal command force according to Lyapunov theory. Finally, the impedance control generates a reference trajectory for the multi-slave to maintain the desired internal force and track the master’s motion. Several experiments were conducted on a self-made robot. The experimental results show that the oscillation amplitude of each slave end is less than 1 mm and the directional oscillation amplitude is less than 1 degree during the tracking of the desired commanded internal force. For objects with a low stiffness, the error of the commanded internal force is less than 1 N (6%) per slave. The error in tracking the commanded internal force for objects with a high stiffness is less than 2 N (8%). The results prove the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method.
Research on Optimization and Numerical Simulation of Layout Scheme of Mining Approach in Downward Slicing and Filling Method
Authors: Zhao Kui , Liang Nan , Zeng Peng , Wang Wanyin , Gong Cong , Xiong Liangfeng , Liu Hao
Published: July 2023

The stability of the filling roof—as an important bearing unit in the stope of the access stope in the filling mining method—is of great significance to guarantee the safe and efficient production of the mine. Arrangement of the mining approach in downward cemented filling stope is the key factor affecting the stability of the filling body roof. Based on a combination of laboratory tests, theoretical analysis, and numerical simulation, the influence of different mining approach arrangements on the stability of the filling body roof is analyzed. The weak filling surface is formed between adjacent mining paths. The mechanical strength of the weak filling surface is significantly reduced by laboratory experiments. The relationship between the distribution of the weak filling surface, azimuth angle, and the stability of the filling roof is further studied by numerical simulation. The results show that, when the upper and lower layered mining approaches are arranged vertically or nearly vertically, the areas of stress concentration and the plastic zone in the numerical simulation results are the smallest, and the stability of the filler roof is the best.
Multi-Scale Feature Fusion Convolutional Neural Networks for Fault Diagnosis of Electromechanical Actuator
Authors: Song Yutong , Du Jinhua , Li Shixiao , Long Yun , Liang Deliang , Liu Yifeng , Wang Yao
Published: July 2023

Airborne electromechanical actuators (EMAs) play a key role in the flight control system, and their health condition has a considerable impact on the flight status and safety of aircraft. Considering the multi-scale feature of fault signals and the fault diagnosis reliability for EMAs under complex working conditions, a novel fault diagnosis method of multi-scale feature fusion convolutional neural network (MSFFCNN) is proposed. Leveraging the multiple different scales’ learning structure and attention mechanism-based feature fusion, the fault-related information can be effectively captured and learned, thereby improving the recognition ability and diagnostic performance of the network. The proposed method was evaluated by experiments and compared with the other three fault-diagnosis algorithms. The results show that the proposed MSFFCNN approach has a better diagnostic performance compared with the state-of-the-art fault diagnosis methods, which demonstrates the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed method.
An Improved Crack Identification Method for Asphalt Concrete Pavement
Authors: Li Yongshang , Yang Nan
Published: July 2023

The results of high-precision asphalt concrete pavement crack identification can provide help for pavement maintenance. Therefore, methods of image feature enhancement and crack identification of asphalt concrete pavement cracks are proposed. First of all, we used an industrial CCD camera mounted on a vehicle to collect an asphalt concrete pavement crack image. Then, after using the NeighShrink algorithm to denoise the acquired image, a fractional differential image enhancement algorithm was designed based on image feature blocks to enhance the image features. On this basis, crack characteristics were segmented and processed by watershed algorithm. Through crack direction identification and crack parameter extraction, crack distribution direction, crack length and width and other parameters of asphalt concrete pavement were obtained in order to achieve accurate identification of asphalt concrete pavement cracks. The experiment found that this method can effectively remove noise information from asphalt concrete crack images; after applying this method, the image entropy value of each image was improved, with a minimum improvement of 0.38 and a maximum improvement of 1.98. The time consumed by this method in identifying cracks in asphalt concrete pavement varied between 1.4 s and 2.4 s. When identifying the length of cracks in asphalt concrete pavement, the maximum deviation value was only 0.47 mm; when identifying the width of cracks in asphalt concrete pavement, the maximum deviation value was only 0.31 mm. The above results indicate that by enhancing the image features of asphalt concrete cracks, this method achieves more accurate identification results for crack distribution direction, length and width values, with high identification efficiency and good application effect.
Tracking Sensor Location by Video Analysis in Double-Shell Tank Inspections
Authors: Price Jacob , Aaberg Ethan , Mo Changki , Miller John
Published: July 2023

Double-shell tanks (DSTs) are a critical part of the infrastructure for nuclear waste management at the U.S. Department of Energy’s Hanford site. They are expected to be used for the interim storage of partially liquid nuclear waste until 2050, which is the target date for completing the immobilization process for all Hanford nuclear waste. At that time, DSTs will have been used about 15 years beyond their original projected lifetime. Consequently, for the next approximately 30 years, Hanford DSTs will undergo periodic nondestructive evaluation (NDE) to ensure their integrity. One approach to perform NDE is to use ultrasonic data from a robot moving through air slots, originally designed for cooling, in the confined space between primary and secondary tanks. Interpreting ultrasonic sensor output requires knowing where measurements were taken with a precision of approximately one inch. Analyzing video acquired during inspection is one approach to tracking sensor location. The top edge of an air slot is easily detected due to the difference in color and texture between the primary tank bottom and the air slot walls. A line fit to this edge is used in a model to calculate the apparent width of the air slot in pixels at targets near the top edge that can be recognized in video images. The apparent width of the air slot at the chosen target in a later video frame determines how far the robot has moved between those frames. Algorithms have been developed that automate target selection and matching in later frames. Tests in a laboratory mockup demonstrated that the method tracks the location of the ultrasonic sensor with the required precision.
Efficient Multi-UAV Path Planning for Collaborative Area Search Operations
Authors: Yu Yang , Lee Sanghwan
Published: July 2023

Efficient UAV path-planning algorithms significantly improve inspection efficiency and reduce costs. However, due to the limitation of battery capacity, the endurance of existing UAVs is limited, making it difficult for them to directly undertake information collection, cruising, and inspection tasks over large work areas. This paper considers the problem of path allocation for multiple UAVs to minimize work time and reports research on multi-UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) multi-task long-duration operation path planning. We propose a multi-UAV collaborative search algorithm based on the greedy algorithm (MUCS-GD) and a multi-UAV collaborative search algorithm based on the binary search algorithm (MUCS-BSAE), and later apply two UAV collaborative search algorithms to five UAV flight paths: (1) a snake curve path, (2) a “square wave signal” curve path, (3) a Peano curve path, (4) a Hilbert curve path, and (5) a Moore curve path, and compare the simulation results. We found that the performance of MUCS-BSAE was better than that of MUCS-GD in all of the above flight paths. In addition, the path with the “square wave signal” curve was the near-optimal path among all the flight paths. Finally, we improved the MUCS-BSAE applied on the “square wave signal” curve path and obtained an improved collaborative search algorithm for multiple UAVs based on the binary search algorithm (IMUCS-BSAE), which further reduced the working time of the UAV.
Nanoparticle Size and Heat Pipe Angle Impact on the Thermal Effectiveness of a Cylindrical Screen Mesh Heat Pipe
Authors: Alphonse Prabhu , Muthukumarasamy Karthikeyan , Dhairiyasamy Ratchagaraja
Published: July 2023

This study examines the effects of particle size and heat pipe angle on the thermal effectiveness of a cylindrical screen mesh heat pipe using silver nanoparticles (Ag) as the test substance. The experiment investigates three different particle sizes (30 nm, 50 nm, and 80 nm) and four different heat pipe angles (0°, 45°, 60°, and 90°) on the heat transmission characteristics of the heat pipe. The results show that the thermal conductivity of the heat pipe increased with an increase in heat pipe angle for all particle sizes, with the highest thermal conductivity attained at a 90° heat pipe angle. Furthermore, the thermal resistance of the heat pipe decreased as the particle size decreased for all heat pipe angles. The thermal conductivity measurements of the particle sizes—30, 50, and 80 nm—were 250 W/mK, 200 W/mK, and 150 W/mK, respectively. The heat transfer coefficient values for particle sizes 30 nm, 50 nm, and 80 nm were 5500 W/m2K, 4500 W/m2K, and 3500 W/m2K, respectively. The heat transfer coefficient increased with increased heat pipe angle for all particle sizes, with the highest heat transfer coefficient obtained at a 90° heat pipe angle. The addition of Ag nanoparticles at a volume concentration of 1% reduced the thermal resistance of the heat pipe, resulting in improved heat transfer performance. At a heat load of 150 W, the thermal resistance decreased from 0.016 °C/W without nanoparticles to 0.012 °C/W with 30 nm nanoparticles, 0.013 °C/W with 50 nm nanoparticles, and 0.014 °C/W with 80 nm nanoparticles. This study also found that the heat transfer coefficient increased with increased heat pipe angle for all particle sizes, with the highest heat transfer coefficient obtained at a 90° heat pipe angle.
Developing Techniques for Closed-Loop-Recycling Soda-Lime Glass Fines through Robotic Deposition
Authors: Sparre-Petersen Maria , Hnídková Simona
Published: July 2023

Glass is made from sand—a finite resource. Hence, there is a need to maintain glass in the industrial cycle as described in the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s circular-economy diagram. This research project examines the reallocation of material resources in the form of waste glass fines from the industrial recycling process for soda-lime glass. According to the plant manager of Reiling Glasrecycling Danmark ApS, the fines are currently sold to be used for insulation. Although this process prolongs the lifespan of the fines before they become landfill waste, a closed-loop circular option would be preferable. In order to establish a closed-loop circular model for waste glass fines, this research investigates their material and aesthetic qualities and proposes a strategy for maintaining the fines in the closed loop cycle together with the soda-lime glass. The fines are manipulated through robotic deposition and formed into 3D geometries. To expand the aesthetic applications for the material, an investigation is conducted by combining 3D geometries with the traditional glassmaking techniques of glassblowing and casting. The research contributes knowledge of the materials’ technical qualities including printability, durability and workability of the 3D prints combined with cast or blown recycled container glass as well as with blown waste glass fines. Technical obstacles are revealed and alternative routes for further explorations are suggested. Finally, the performative and aesthetic qualities of the results are discussed, while artistic applications for recycled soda-lime glass fines remain to be explored in future research.
Decay of Persistent Currents in Annular Atomic Superfluids
Authors: Xhani Klejdja , Del Pace Giulia , Scazza Francesco , Roati Giacomo
Published: July 2023

We investigate the role of vortices in the decay of persistent current states of annular atomic superfluids by solving numerically the Gross–Pitaevskii equation, and we directly compare our results with the 6Li experiment at LENS data. We theoretically model the optical phase-imprinting technique employed to experimentally excite finite-circulation states in the Bose–Einstein condensation regime, accounting for imperfections of the optical gradient imprinting profile. By comparing simulations of this realistic protocol to an ideal imprinting, we show that the introduced density excitations arising from imperfect imprinting are mainly responsible for limiting the maximum reachable winding number wmax in the superfluid ring. We also investigate the effect of a point-like obstacle with variable potential height V0 on the decay of circulating supercurrents. For a given obstacle height, a critical circulation wc exists, such that for an initial circulation w0 larger than wc the supercurrent decays through the emission of vortices, which cross the superflow and thus induce phase slippage. Higher values of the obstacle height V0 further favor the entrance of vortices, thus leading to lower values of wc. Furthermore, the stronger vortex-defect interaction at higher V0 leads to vortices that propagate closer to the center of the ring condensate. The combination of both these effects leads to an increase in the supercurrent decay rate for increasing w0, in agreement with experimental observations.
Self-Supervision for Medical Image Classification: State-of-the-Art Performance with ~100 Labeled Training Samples per Class
Authors: Nielsen Maximilian , Wenderoth Laura , Sentker Thilo , Werner René
Published: July 2023

Is self-supervised deep learning (DL) for medical image analysis already a serious alternative to the de facto standard of end-to-end trained supervised DL? We tackle this question for medical image classification, with a particular focus on one of the currently most limiting factor of the field: the (non-)availability of labeled data. Based on three common medical imaging modalities (bone marrow microscopy, gastrointestinal endoscopy, dermoscopy) and publicly available data sets, we analyze the performance of self-supervised DL within the self-distillation with no labels (DINO) framework. After learning an image representation without use of image labels, conventional machine learning classifiers are applied. The classifiers are fit using a systematically varied number of labeled data (1–1000 samples per class). Exploiting the learned image representation, we achieve state-of-the-art classification performance for all three imaging modalities and data sets with only a fraction of between 1% and 10% of the available labeled data and about 100 labeled samples per class.
Cellular Signaling for Dental Physiological Functions
Authors: Ouchi Takehito , Nakagawa Taneaki
Published: July 2023

Teeth are unique and multifaceted tissues that are necessary for routine functions, such as crushing food and constructing articulated sounds, as well as for esthetic symbols [...]
Assessment of Blood Glucose Responses in a Female National-Level Marathon Runner Using Continuous Glucose Monitoring during a Real-World Marathon Race
Authors: Takayama Fuminori
Published: July 2023

Background: The effects of the use of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) in elite endurance athletes are unclear. This case study reported the blood glucose (BG) levels of a female national-level marathon runner during a real-world marathon race. Methods: Heart rate and BG levels were monitored throughout the race. Results: The runner completed the race in 2:46 h:min, which was an improvement from her previous personal record by just under one min. Her BG levels were stable from approximately 5–40 km of the race at a mean concentration of 7.13 mmol/L, with a standard deviation of 0.20 mmol/L and a coefficient of variation of 2.8%. Increases in BG levels and heart rate were observed 6 min after the race and during the 40–42.195 km section, respectively. Conclusions: The runner broke her own record and exhibited stable BG levels throughout the race, with the highest BG value detected immediately after the race. Considering that quantity, content, and timing of pre-race meals and supplementation during the race can affect BG levels, future studies should assess additional detailed parameters in more detail and monitor multiple races with the same elite endurance athletes to acquire more definitive evidence on CGM usefulness among elite endurance athletes.
Transcutaneous Spinal Cord Stimulation Improves Respiratory Muscle Strength and Function in Subjects with Cervical Spinal Cord Injury: Original Research
Authors: Kumru Hatice , García-Alén Loreto , Ros-Alsina Aina , Albu Sergiu , Valles Margarita , Vidal Joan
Published: July 2023

(1) Background: Respiratory muscle weakness is common following cervical spinal cord injury (cSCI). Transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation (tSCS) promotes the motor recovery of the upper and lower limbs. tSCS improved breathing and coughing abilities in one subject with tetraplegia. Objective: We therefore hypothesized that tSCS applied at the cervical and thoracic levels could improve respiratory function in cSCI subjects; (2) Methods: This study was a randomized controlled trial. Eleven cSCI subjects received inspiratory muscle training (IMT) alone. Eleven cSCI subjects received tSCS combined with IMT (six of these subjects underwent IMT alone first and then they were given the opportunity to receive tSCS + IMT). The subjects evaluated their sensation of breathlessness/dyspnea and hypophonia compared to pre-SCI using a numerical rating scale. The thoracic muscle strength was assessed by maximum inspiratory (MIP), expiratory pressure (MEP), and spirometric measures. All assessments were conducted at baseline and after the last session. tSCS was applied at C3-4 and Th9-10 at a frequency of 30 Hz for 30 min on 5 consecutive days; (3) Results: Following tSCS + IMT, the subjects reported a significant improvement in breathlessness/dyspnea and hypophonia (p < 0.05). There was also a significant improvement in MIP, MEP, and forced vital capacity (p < 0.05). Following IMT alone, there were no significant changes in any measurement; (4) Conclusions: Current evidence supports the potential of tSCS as an adjunctive therapy to accelerate and enhance the rehabilitation process for respiratory impairments following SCI. However, further research is needed to validate these results and establish the long-term benefits of tSCS in this population.
The Role of the Bile Microbiome in Common Bile Duct Stone Development
Authors: Lee Jungnam , Jeong Hye Jung , Kim Hanul , Park Jin-Seok
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Common bile duct (CBD) stones are a health concern for 10–20% of individuals with symptomatic gallstones, leading to health complications and placing a burden on healthcare systems. This study was initiated to investigate the changes in microbiome compositions and the metabolic signature associated with CBD stones. The research approach integrated taxonomic and functional data with metabolomics data, complemented by in vivo experiments. Methods: In a single tertiary healthcare institution, a total of 25 patients were enrolled who had undergone endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) between February 2019 and January 2021. We harvested DNA from bile samples acquired from these individuals. The amplification of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene V3-V4 region was conducted through polymerase chain reaction (PCR), followed by sequencing. We utilized QIIME2 for a comprehensive data analysis. Furthermore, we performed a metabolomic analysis of the bile samples using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. For the assessment of functional gene enrichment, we employed MetaboAnalyst 5.0. Lastly, we executed in vivo experiments on C57BL/6 mice and undertook histological examinations of tissue samples. Results: Out of the 25 study subjects, 17 underwent ERCP due to CBD stones (the CBD stone group), while the remaining 8 had the procedure for different reasons (the non-CBD stone group). An alpha diversity analysis showed a significantly greater microbial diversity in the bile samples of the non-CBD stone group (p < 0.01), and a beta diversity analysis confirmed the greater microbial compositional abundance in the gut microbiomes in this group (p = 0.01). A taxonomic analysis revealed that the abundances of Enterococcaceae and Enterococcus were higher in the bile microbiomes of the CBD stone group. A metabolic profile analysis showed that the acetate, formate, and asparagine levels were higher in the CBD stone group. A pathway enrichment analysis showed the metabolic pathways (Arginine and Proline Metabolism, Aspartate Metabolism, Glycine, and Serine Metabolism, and Ammonia Recycling pathways) that were associated with these differences. Preclinical experiments demonstrated systemic inflammation and extracellular trap formation in the CBD stone group. Conclusions: Our study highlights the importance of biliary dysbiosis and bile metabolites, specifically acetate and formate, in CBD stone development and progression. These findings have implications for the development of diagnostic and therapeutic strategies using microbiomes for CBD stones.
Recent Advances in the Production of Pharmaceuticals Using Selective Laser Sintering
Authors: Balasankar Athinarayanan , Anbazhakan Kandasamy , Arul Velusamy , Mutharaian Velankadu Natrayan , Sriram Ganesan , Aruchamy Kanakaraj , Oh Tae Hwan , Ramasundaram Subramaniyan
Published: July 2023

Selective laser sintering (SLS) is an additive manufacturing process that has shown promise in the production of medical devices, including hip cups, knee trays, dental crowns, and hearing aids. SLS-based 3D-printed dosage forms have the potential to revolutionise the production of personalised drugs. The ability to manipulate the porosity of printed materials is a particularly exciting aspect of SLS. Porous tablet formulations produced by SLS can disintegrate orally within seconds, which is challenging to achieve with traditional methods. SLS also enables the creation of amorphous solid dispersions in a single step, rather than the multi-step process required with conventional methods. This review provides an overview of 3D printing, describes the operating mechanism and necessary materials for SLS, and highlights recent advances in SLS for biomedical and pharmaceutical applications. Furthermore, an in-depth comparison and contrast of various 3D printing technologies for their effectiveness in tissue engineering applications is also presented in this review.
The Effect of Full-Scale Exchange of Ca2+ with Zn2+ Ions on the Crystal Structure of Brushite and Its Phase Composition
Authors: Alanazi Abdulaziz A. , Abdulaziz Fahad , Alyami Mohammed , Alotibi Satam , Sakka Salah , Mallouh Saida Abu , Abu-Zurayk Rund , Alshaaer Mazen
Published: July 2023

This study was carried out to investigate the effect of a complete exchange of Ca2+ with Zn2+ ions on the structure of brushite (CaHPO4·2H2O), which might be advantageous in the production process of CaxZn1−xHPO4·nH2O. To acquire the starting solutions needed for the current study, (NH4)2HPO4, Ca(NO3)2·4H2O, and Zn(NO3)2·6H2O were utilized in several molar concentrations. The findings indicate that Ca is partly substituted by Zn when the Zn/Ca molar ratio is below 0.25 and that Zn doping hinders the crystallization of brushite. A continued increase in the Zn/Ca molar ratio to 1 (at which point the supersaturation of the Zn solution rises) led to a biphasic compound of monoclinic brushite and parascholzite precipitate. Elevating the Zn/Ca molar ratio to 1.5 resulted in a precipitate of a parascholzite-like mineral. Finally, increasing the Zn/Ca molar ratio to 4 and above resulted in the formation of the hopeite mineral. Future biomaterial production with specific and bespoke characteristics can be achieved by adjusting the Zn/Ca ratio in the starting solution. It Rhas been established that the Zn/Ca ratio in the starting solution can be adjusted to obtain minerals with specific compositions. Thus, new synthesis methods for parascholzite and hopeite were introduced for the first time in this manuscript.
Neoadjuvant Immunotherapy for Patients with dMMR/MSI-High Gastrointestinal Cancers: A Changing Paradigm
Authors: Ozer Muhammet , Vegivinti Charan Thej Reddy , Syed Masood , Ferrell Morgan E. , Gonzalez Gomez Cyndi , Cheng Svea , Holder-Murray Jennifer , Bruno Tullia , Saeed Anwaar , Sahin Ibrahim Halil
Published: July 2023

Immune checkpoint inhibitors have revolutionized the management of mismatch repair-deficient (MMR-D)/microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) gastrointestinal cancers, particularly colorectal cancer. Cancers with the MMR-D/MSI-H genotype often carry a higher tumor mutation burden with frameshift alterations, leading to increased mutation-associated neoantigen (MANA) generation. The dramatic response seen with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), which are orchestrated by MANA-primed effector T cells, resulted in the rapid development of these novel therapeutics within the landscape of MSI-H gastrointestinal cancers. Recently, several clinical trials have utilized ICIs as potential neoadjuvant therapies for MSI-H gastrointestinal cancers and demonstrated deep clinical and pathological responses, creating opportunities for organ preservation. However, there are potential challenges to the neoadjuvant use of ICIs for certain disease types due to the clinical risk of overtreatment for a disease that can be cured through a surgery-only approach. In this review article, we discuss neoadjuvant management approaches with ICI therapy for patients with MSI-H gastrointestinal cancers, including those with oligometastatic disease. We also elaborate on potential challenges and opportunities for the neoadjuvant utilization of ICIs and provide further insight into the changing treatment paradigm of MMR-D/MSI-H gastrointestinal cancers.
Recent Progress in the Viscosity Modeling of Concentrated Suspensions of Unimodal Hard Spheres
Authors: Pal Rajinder
Published: July 2023

The viscosity models for concentrated suspensions of unimodal hard spheres published in the twenty-first century are reviewed, compared, and evaluated using a large pool of available experimental data. The Pal viscosity model for unimodal suspensions is the best available model in that the predictions of this model agree very well with the low (zero)-shear experimental relative viscosity data for coarse suspensions, nanosuspensions, and coarse suspensions thickened by starch nanoparticles. The average percentage error in model predictions is less than 6.5%. Finally, the viscous behavior of concentrated multimodal suspensions is simulated using the Pal model for unimodal suspensions.
Construction of an ATP-Activated Y-Shape DNA Probe for Smart miRNA Imaging in Living Cells
Authors: Zhong Wukun , Zheng Yanlin , Huang Lei , Xing Chao , Lu Chunhua
Published: July 2023

A stringent DNA probe to profile microRNA (miRNA) expression within a specific cell remains a key challenge in biology. To address this issue, an intracellular ATP-activated Y-DNA probe for accurate imaging of miRNA in living cells was designed. Y-DNA was based on the fabrication of tripartite function modules, which consisted of a folate (FA)-modified targeting module, an ATP aptamer-sealed driver, and a miRNA sensing module. The Y-DNA probe could be specifically activated by ATP after it efficiently internalized into FA-receptor-overexpressed cells based on caveolar-mediated endocytosis, leading to the activation of the miRNA sensing module. The activated Y-DNA probe allowed for the imaging of miRNA in living cells with high sensitivity. The design of the ATP-activated Y-DNA sensor opens the door for bioorthogonal miRNA imaging and promotes the development of various responsive DNA molecular probes with enhanced anti-interference ability for clinical diagnosis.
Framework-Enhanced Electrochemiluminescence in Biosensing
Authors: Fu Haomin , Xu Zhiyuan , Hou Hanlin , Luo Rengan , Ju Huangxian , Lei Jianping
Published: July 2023

Electrochemiluminescence (ECL) has attracted increasing attention owing to its intrinsic advantages of high sensitivity, good stability, and low background. Considering the fact that framework nanocrystals such as metal–organic frameworks and covalent organic frameworks have accurate molecular structures, a series of framework-based ECL platforms are developed for decoding emission fundamentals. The integration of fluorescent ligands into frameworks significantly improves the ECL properties due to the arrangement of molecules and intramolecular electron transfer. Moreover, the various framework topologies can be easily functionalized with the recognition elements to trace the targets for signal readout. These ECL enhancement strategies lead to a series of sensitive analytical methods for protein biomarkers, DNA, small biomolecules, and cells. In this review, we summarize recent advances in various functions of frameworks during the ECL process, and constructions of framework-based ECL platforms for biosensing. The framework-based ECL nanoemitters and enhancement mechanisms show both theoretical innovation and potential applications in designing ECL biosensing systems. Perspectives are also discussed, which may give a guideline for researchers in the fields of ECL biosensing and reticular materials.
Ultrasound Elastography in Children
Authors: Močnik Mirjam , Marčun Varda Nataša
Published: July 2023

Ultrasound elastography is a novel ultrasound technique, being extensively researched in children in the last decade. It measures tissue elasticity with the observation of tissue response after an external stimulus. From research to clinical practice, ultrasound elastography has evolved significantly in liver fibrosis evaluation in children; however, several other applications of the technique are available in both clinical practice and research environments. Practically, in children any organ can be assessed, including the brain in early ages, along with muscle and connective tissue elasticity evaluation, spleen, kidney, skin, lymphatic tissue, etc. The elastography method, age, body mass index and technical points should be considered when performing ultrasound elastography. This review highlights its vast potential as a diagnostic tool in the pediatric population, where ultrasound is a dominant imaging tool; however, the indications and exam protocol for its clinical use in several fields in pediatrics have yet to be elucidated.