bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Freezing and Thawing Processes of Highways in Kazakhstan
Authors: Teltayev Bagdat , Oliviero Rossi Cesare , Aitbayev Koblanbek , Suppes Elena , Yelshibayev Aidos , Nugmanova Assel
Published: November 2022

This paper presents the results of an experimental study of freezing and thawing patterns of highways in Kazakhstan. Special sensors measure temperature and moisture change every hour in automatic mode. The purpose of this work is to develop a methodology for determining the depth of freezing of subgrade soils of roads of Kazakhstan, and the task is to establish the pattern of cold temperature change (temperature “0 °C”) through certain points (sensors) at any time. In the upper part of the pavement (up to 30–40 cm), the temperature changes in annual and daily cycles. As the depth increases, the daily temperature fluctuations disappear, leaving only the annual fluctuation. At a depth of 180 cm and below, temperature fluctuations occur only in the annual cycle. The freezing rate varied from 14 cm/day to 0.33 cm/day. The maximum freezing depth was 227 cm. The descending branch of thawing occurs almost uniformly, with an average rate of 6.25 cm/day to a depth of 220 cm; the average rate of the ascending branch of thawing is 0.9 cm/day. Asphalt–concrete layers of the pavement and the upper part of the subgrade were in a frozen state for 151 and 166 days, respectively. In the subgrade at the beginning and end of the cold period, there are abrupt changes in moisture, which are explained by phase transitions of the second order: the transition from the liquid state to the solid (ice) at the beginning of the cold period and the transition of moisture from the solid state to liquid at the end of the cold period.
Blockchain’s Grand Promise for the Real Estate Sector: A Systematic Review
Authors: Saari Anniina , Junnila Seppo , Vimpari Jussi
Published: November 2022

In recent years, blockchain technology has received increasing attention in the real estate literature. Moreover, recent evidence suggests that blockchains could provide some added benefits for the real estate sector even in the current hybrid settings, where blockchain is usually just an add-on to existing systems. This research provides an up-to-date and systematic understanding of blockchain’s theoretical potential, pros, and cons for the real estate sector. The research aims to understand why and where to apply blockchain in real estate by conducting a systematic review that identified 296 relevant documents and performed a thematic content analysis. The identified blockchain adoption proposals were classified using standardized real estate vocabulary. Most of the literature focused on blockchain possibilities within land administration, followed by property transactions, real estate investment, leasing and renting, and real estate administration. However, real estate development and real estate maintenance did not appear as attractive real estate subsectors for blockchain. This paper provides a detailed analysis of blockchain technology’s possibilities for each real estate subsector, i.e., blockchain merits, and discusses the pros and cons. Last, this review provides suggestions for future research directions.
Rotor Position Estimation Strategy Based on Rotating High-Frequency Voltage Injection Using Synchronous Frequency Filter
Authors: Lu Qing , Gao Shuai , Zhang Tao , Zheng Shijiao , Mo Lihong
Published: November 2022

In order to improve the performance of motor drive systems, this paper introduces a sensorless control method for interior permanent magnet synchronous motors (IPMSM) based on the rotating high-frequency voltage injection method. The demodulation method using a synchronous frequency filter (SFF) instead of a bandpass filter (BPF) and a high pass filter (HPF) is proposed. The structure and transfer function of SFFs are introduced, and their characteristics are simulated and analyzed. Therefore, the center frequency of SFFs can be adaptively adjusted according to the estimated rotational speed, which is convenient for frequency setting. Finally, according to the proposed rotating high-frequency voltage injection method, the simulation model is built. The experimental results verify that the control strategy can maintain good position estimation accuracy, better speed tracking performance and anti-load disturbance performance.
Effect of Elastomeric Bearing Stiffness on the Dynamic Response of Railway Bridges Considering Vehicle–Bridge Interaction
Authors: Erduran Emrah , Nordli Christian , Gonen Semih
Published: November 2022

This article presents a numerical study that aims to explore the impacts of the stiffness of elastomeric bearings on the dynamic behavior of railway bridges under train-induced vibrations. For this purpose, a finite element code that considers vehicle–bridge interaction using a coupled approach was developed. The software was validated by comparing the numerical response to the analytical solution. The numerical analysis of single- and multi-span bridges with varying bearing stiffness values under passenger trains showed the interplay between bearing stiffness, its impact on the natural frequency of the bridge and the loading frequency. It is demonstrated that the amplitude of the maximum acceleration on the bridge depends heavily on the stiffness of the bearings. Furthermore, the bearing stiffness significantly impacts the location of the maximum acceleration on the bridge. The results of the extensive numerical analyses improve the understanding of the impact of the bearing stiffness on the dynamic behavior of bridges and highlight the importance of quantifying the boundary conditions correctly for reliable estimation of dynamic response of railway bridges under train-induced vibrations.
A Bunch of YBCO Josephson Generators for the Analysis of Resonant Cold-Electron Bolometers
Authors: Revin Leonid S. , Masterov Dmitry V. , Parafin Alexey E. , Pavlov Sergey A. , Pimanov Dmitry A. , Chiginev Alexander V. , Blagodatkin Anton V. , Rakut’ Igor V. , Skorokhodov Evgenii V. , Gordeeva Anna V. , Pankratov Andrey L.
Published: November 2022

The resonant properties of Cold-Electron Bolometers (CEBs) located at a 0.3 K cryostat plate are measured using a 50 μm long high-temperature YBa2Cu3O7−δ (YBCO) Josephson junction oscillator, placed on a 2.7 K plate of the same cryostat. For these purposes, a bunch of YBCO Josephson oscillators with various lengths of dipole antennas and overlapping generation bands has been developed and investigated in 50–500 GHz frequency range. Two setups of Josephson junction placement were compared, and as a result, various narrow-band receiving systems with CEBs have been measured, demonstrating the feasibility of the presented approach.
Disks of Oxygen Vacancies on the Surface of TiO2 Nanoparticles
Authors: Vykhodets Vladimir B. , Kurennykh Tatiana E. , Vykhodets Evgenia V.
Published: November 2022

Oxide nanopowders are widely used in engineering, and their properties are largely controlled by the defect structure of nanoparticles. Experimental data on the spatial distribution of defects in oxide nanoparticles are unavailable in the literature, and in the work presented, to gain such information, methods of nuclear reactions and deuterium probes were employed. The object of study was oxygen-deficient defects in TiO2 nanoparticles. Nanopowders were synthesized by the sol–gel method and laser evaporation of ceramic targets. To modify the defect structure in nanoparticles, nanopowders were subjected to vacuum annealings. It was established that in TiO2 nanoparticles there form two-dimensional defects consisting of six titanium atoms that occupy the nanoparticle surface and result in a remarkable deviation of the chemical composition from the stoichiometry. The presence of such defects was observed in two cases: in TiO2 nanoparticles alloyed with cobalt, which were synthesized by the sol–gel method, and in nonalloyed TiO2 nanoparticles synthesized by laser evaporation of ceramic target. The concentration of the defects under study can be varied in wide limits via vacuum annealings of nanopowders which can provide formation on the surface of oxide nanoparticles of a solid film of titanium atoms 1–2 monolayers in thickness.
Modeling and HDA-CR Solution of Multi-Period Allocation Scheme of Hazardous Materials under Uncertainty
Authors: Liu Xianguang , Zhang Xiaofeng , Wang Wenfei , Miao Qinglin
Published: November 2022

Developing a multi-period allocation scheme for life-limited hazardous materials is essential to ensure safe and sustainable hazardous material management. In this study, the allocation risk under uncertainty is measured by a type-II fuzzy number, and a bilevel chance constrained programming model is established with the minimum cumulative number of reserve points participating in allocation and the minimum cumulative allocation risk as to the objective functions. Aiming at the multi-dimensional characteristics of multi-period, multi-reserve points, multi-consumption points, and multi-hazardous materials types, and the resource conflict problem in the allocation scheme formulation process, a multi-objective hierarchical differential evolution algorithm with coding repair strategy was designed. By comparing with the classical multi-objective optimization algorithm, the algorithm can search for a more excellent Pareto solution set at the expense of certain time complexity. At the same time, when the decision-maker’s preference is introduced, the method can select a more appropriate multi-period allocation scheme from the perspective of the overall situation and the decision-maker. It provides a reference for determining the rational allocation scheme of resources under the long-term allocation of hazardous materials.
Use of YouTube as a Learning Modality for Clinical Procedures among Dental Students in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia—A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Khanagar Sanjeev B. , Alolayan Layan S. , Alobaid Tala A. , Alharbi Asma A. , Alazaz Norah N. , Alanazi Maha H.
Published: November 2022

Social media like YouTube are increasingly used by students as a learning tool. The aim of this study was to examine the use of YouTube videos as a means of learning clinical procedures among dental students in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among dental students from six dental colleges in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Among the total of 331 dental students who responded to this survey, 93.9% (n = 308) reported that they had used YouTube for dental learning. A total of 65.30% (n = 201) of the respondents strongly agreed that they find videos of clinical procedures on YouTube helpful as a learning tool. A total of 54.40% (n = 180) agreed that they always refer to YouTube videos to prepare for a clinical procedure that they have never done before. A total of 75.3% (n = 232) reported that they most commonly watched clinical procedures related to restorative dentistry, 67.2% (n = 207) for fixed prosthodontics procedures, 65.3% (n = 201) for endodontic clinical procedures, and 62.3% (n = 192) for removable prosthodontics videos. A total of 50.60% (n = 156) strongly agreed that YouTube videos are helpful in relating theoretical knowledge with clinical knowledge. A total of 50.30% (n = 155) reported that it is important to have faculty guidance regarding useful YouTube videos on dental procedures. A total of 91.90% (n = 283) participants would like their dental school to post tutorials or videos for clinical procedures on YouTube. Even after increased availability of online videos, a majority of dental students felt that YouTube videos suggested by faculty were more valuable than videos identified through normal searching.
Some New Generalized Inequalities of Hardy Type Involving Several Functions on Time Scale Nabla Calculus
Authors: Saied A. I. , ALNemer Ghada , Zakarya Mohammed , Cesarano Clemente , Rezk Haytham M.
Published: November 2022

In this article, we establish several new generalized Hardy-type inequalities involving several functions on time-scale nabla calculus. Furthermore, we derive some new multidimensional Hardy-type inequalities on time scales nabla calculus. The main results are proved by applying Minkowski’s inequality, Jensen’s inequality and Arithmetic Mean–Geometric Mean inequality. As a special case of our results, when T=R, we obtain refinements of some well-known continuous inequalities and when T=N, the results which are essentially new.
Emerging Roles of the Unique Molecular Chaperone Cosmc in the Regulation of Health and Disease
Authors: Xiang Ting , Qiao Muchuan , Xie Jiangbo , Li Zheng , Xie Hailong
Published: November 2022

The core-1 β1-3galactosyltransferase-specific chaperone 1 (Cosmc) is a unique molecular chaperone of core-1 β1-3galactosyltransferase(C1GALT1), which typically functions inside the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Cosmc helps C1GALT1 to fold correctly and maintain activity. It also participates in the synthesis of the T antigen, O-glycan, together with C1GALT1. Cosmc is a multifaceted molecule with a wide range of roles and functions. It involves platelet production and the regulation of immune cell function. Besides that, the loss of function of Cosmc also facilitates the development of several diseases, such as inflammation diseases, immune-mediated diseases, and cancer. It suggests that Cosmc is a critical control point in diseases and that it should be regarded as a potential target for oncotherapy. It is essential to fully comprehend Cosmc’s roles, as they may provide critical information about its involvement in disease development and pathogenesis. In this review, we summarize the recent progress in understanding the role of Cosmc in normal development and diseases.
Evidence for Involvement of GIP and GLP-1 Receptors and the Gut-Gonadal Axis in Regulating Female Reproductive Function in Mice
Authors: Khan Dawood , Ojo Opeolu O. , Woodward Orla RM , Lewis Jo Edward , Sridhar Ananyaa , Gribble Fiona M. , Reimann Frank , Flatt Peter R. , Moffett R. Charlotte
Published: November 2022

Substantial evidence suggests crosstalk between reproductive and gut-axis but mechanisms linking metabolism and reproduction are still unclear. The present study evaluated the possible role of glucose-dependent-insulinotropic-polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like-peptide-1 (GLP-1) in reproductive function by examining receptor distribution and the effects of global GIPR and GLP-1R deletion on estrous cycling and reproductive outcomes in mice. GIPR and GLP-1R gene expression were readily detected by PCR in female reproductive tissues including pituitary, ovaries and uterine horn. Protein expression was confirmed with histological visualisation of incretin receptors using GIPR-Cre and GLP1R-Cre mice in which the incretin receptor expressing cells were fluorescently tagged. Functional studies revealed that female GIPR−/− and GLP-1R−/− null mice exhibited significantly (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01) deranged estrous cycling compared to wild-type controls, indicative of reduced fertility. Furthermore, only 50% and 16% of female GIPR−/− and GLP-1R−/− mice, respectively produced litters with wild-type males across three breeding cycles. Consistent with a physiological role of incretin receptors in pregnancy outcome, litter size was significantly (p < 0.001–p < 0.05) decreased in GIPR−/− and GLP-1R−/− mice. Treatment with oral metformin (300 mg/kg body-weight), an agent used clinically for treatment of PCOS, for a further two breeding periods showed no amelioration of pregnancy outcome except that litter size in the GIPR−/− group was approximately 2 times greater in the second breeding cycle. These data highlight the significance of incretin receptors in modulation of female reproductive function which may provide future targets for pharmacological intervention in reproductive disorders.
Expression Profiles of CDKN2A, MDM2, E2F2 and LTF Genes in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Gołąbek Karolina , Rączka Grzegorz , Gaździcka Jadwiga , Miśkiewicz-Orczyk Katarzyna , Zięba Natalia , Krakowczyk Łukasz , Misiołek Maciej , Strzelczyk Joanna Katarzyna
Published: November 2022

Background: Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is one of the most commonly detected neoplasms worldwide. Not all mechanisms associated with cell cycle disturbances are known in OSCC. Examples of genes involved in the control of the cell cycle are CDKN2A, MDM2, E2F2 and LTF. The aim of this study was to examine the possible association between CDKN2A, MDM2, E2F2 and LTF mRNA expression and influence on clinical variables. Methods: The study group consisted of 88 Polish patients. The gene expression levels were assessed by quantitative reverse transcription PCR. Results: We found no statistically significant differences in the expression level of CDKN2A, MDM2, E2F2 and LTF genes in tumour samples compared to margin samples. No association was found between the gene expression levels and clinical parameters, except E2F2. The patients with G2 tumours had a significantly higher gene expression level of E2F2 than patients with low-grade G1 tumours. Conclusions: We have not demonstrated that a change in expression profiles of genes has a significant impact on the pathogenesis of OSCC. It may also be useful to conduct further studies on the use of E2F2 expression profile changes as a factor to describe the invasiveness and dynamics of OSCC development.
Stage- and Subfield-Associated Hippocampal miRNA Expression Patterns after Pilocarpine-Induced Status Epilepticus
Authors: Li Yue , Dheen S Thameem , Tang Fengru , Luo Yumin , Meng Ran , Samuel Tay Sam Wah , Zhang Lan
Published: November 2022

Objective: To investigate microRNA (miRNA) expression profiles before and after pilocarpine-induced status epilepticus (SE) in the cornu ammonis (CA) and dentated gyrus (DG) areas of the mouse hippocampus, and to predict the downstream proteins and related pathways based on bioinformatic analysis. Methods: An epileptic mouse model was established using a pilocarpine injection. Brain tissues from the CA and DG were collected separately for miRNA analysis. The miRNAs were extracted using a kit, and the expression profiles were generated using the SurePrint G3 Mouse miRNA microarray and validated. The intersecting genes of TargetScan and miRanda were selected to predict the target genes of each miRNA. For gene ontology (GO) studies, the parent-child-intersection (pci) method was used for enrichment analysis, and Benjamini-Hochberg was used for multiple test correction. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) was used to detect disease-related pathways among the large list of miRNA-targeted genes. All analyses mentioned above were performed at the time points of control, days 3, 14, and 60 post-SE. Results: Control versus days 3, 14, and 60 post-SE: in the CA area, a total of 131 miRNAs were differentially expressed; 53, 49, and 26 miRNAs were upregulated and 54, 10, and 22 were downregulated, respectively. In the DG area, a total of 171 miRNAs were differentially expressed; furthermore, 36, 32, and 28 miRNAs were upregulated and 78, 58, and 44 were downregulated, respectively. Of these, 92 changed in both the CA and DG, 39 only in the CA, and 79 only in the DG area. The differentially expressed miRNAs target 11–1630 genes. Most of these proteins have multiple functions in epileptogenesis. There were 15 common pathways related to altered miRNAs: nine different pathways in the CA and seven in the DG area. Conclusions: Stage- and subfield-associated hippocampal miRNA expression patterns are closely related to epileptogenesis, although the detailed mechanisms need to be explored in the future.
Two Rare Cases of Long Surviving Riboflavin Transporter Deficiency with Co-Existing Adenosine Monophosphate Deaminase (AMP) Deficiency
Authors: Zhang Lin , Thyagarajan Dominic
Published: November 2022

(1) Background: Riboflavin transporter deficiency (RTD), formerly known as Brown–Vialetto–Van Laere syndrome, is a rare condition that causes a progressive neurological syndrome in early life with features of auditory and optic neuropathy, weakness of bulbar muscles and the diaphragm and sensorimotor neuropathy. Pathologic mutations in the genes that code for riboflavin transporters have been identified as the genetic basis of RTD, and the majority of the genetically confirmed cases are caused by mutations of SLC52A3, a riboflavin transporter 2 coding gene or compound mutations in SLC52A2, encoding riboflavin transporter 3. Fatality in childhood is common if the condition is left untreated, but survival into adulthood has been reported in cases treated with high-dose oral riboflavin. (2) Case summary: We report two long-term survivors of RTD type 2 due to compound heterozygous 185T> G and 1258G>A mutations in gene SLC2A2. They are two brothers in a family in which two female siblings died in childhood from a similar neurological disorder. Brother one, the older RTD survivor, is aged 71, and brother two is aged 58. Both have significant visual impairment from optic nerve atrophy and sensory ataxia. Their muscle biopsies showed decreased muscle adenosine monophosphate (AMP) deaminase activity. No AMPD1 mutation was detected through whole-genome sequencing. (3) Conclusion: Co-existing riboflavin transporter deficiency (RTD) type 2 and muscle AMP deaminase deficiency has not been previously reported. Apart from the possibility that there is a milder phenotype associated with these mutations in SLC2A2, AMP deaminase deficiency might have contributed to a survival benefit by preserving muscle function through accumulating intracellular AMP.
Effect of Spacing and Slenderness Ratio of Piles on the Seismic Behavior of Building Frames
Authors: Visuvasam Joseph Antony , Chandrasekaran Sembulichampalayam Sennimalai
Published: November 2022

The general assumption of a rigid base at the bottom of building structures during analysis and design underestimates the seismic response. Building structures resting on loose sand and soft clayey soil are vulnerable to earthquake forces. The amplification of ground motion occurs due to the presence of this loose and soft soil deposit. Moreover, the spacing and slenderness ratio of piles play a vital role in altering the behavior of the overall soil-foundation-superstructure system. This study aimed at investigating the effect of soil-pile-structure interaction using 1-g shake-table testing. Free and forced vibration tests were performed on scaled building frames with either a rigid base or a flexible base, supported on sandy soil with 50% relative density. A laminar shear box container is used for an experimental study of soil-pile-structure interaction. The design parameters, such as the spacing (S = 3D, 5D, 7D, and 9D) and slenderness ratio (L/D = 15, 30, 45, and 60) of the piles, where S, D and L are spacing, diameter and length of the piles respectively, are considered in the analysis. The results, in terms of natural frequency, damping, pile-bending moment, story lateral displacement, and inter-story drift are estimated. From the findings, it is clear that the effects due to pile spacing are more considerable than the effects due to the slenderness ratio of the piles. The bending moment in the piles spaced at 3D is increased by 102% compared to the large-spacing (S = 9D) piles. This subsequently amplifies the story lateral displacement by 180% and amplifies the inter-story drift by 167%.
Nanoplasmonics Enabling Cancer Diagnostics and Therapy
Authors: Odion Ren A. , Liu Yang , Vo-Dinh Tuan
Published: November 2022

In this paper, we highlight several advances our laboratory has developed in the pursuit of cancer diagnostics and therapeutics by integrating plasmonics, photonics, and nanotechnology. We discuss the development and applications of plasmonics-active gold nanostar (GNS), a uniquely shaped nanoparticle with numerous branches that serve to greatly amplify the thermal generation at resonant wavelengths. GNS has also been successfully used in tumor imaging contexts from two-photon fluorescence to surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) sensing and imaging. Finally, GNS has been coupled with immunotherapy applications to serve as an effective adjuvant to immune checkpoint inhibitors. This combination of GNS and immunotherapy, the so called synergistic immuno photo nanotherapy (SYMPHONY), has been shown to be effective at controlling long-lasting cancer immunity and metastatic tumors.
Determination of Interactive States of Immune Checkpoint Regulators in Lung Metastases after Radiofrequency Ablation
Authors: Miles James , Soubeyran Isabelle , Marliot Florence , Pangon Nicolas , Italiano Antoine , Bellera Carine , Ward Stephen G. , Pagès Franck , Palussière Jean , Larijani Banafshé
Published: November 2022

Background: Cases of the spontaneous regression of multiple pulmonary metastases, after radiofrequency ablation (RFA), of a single lung metastasis, have been documented to be mediated by the immune system. The interaction of immune checkpoints, e.g., PD-1/PD-L1 and CTLA-4/CD80, may explain this phenomenon. The purpose of this study is to identify and quantify immune mechanisms triggered by RFA of pulmonary metastases originating from colorectal cancer. Methods: We used two-site time-resolved Förster resonance energy transfer as determined by frequency-domain FLIM (iFRET) for the quantification of receptor–ligand interactions. iFRET provides a method by which immune checkpoint interaction states can be quantified in a spatiotemporal manner. The same patient sections were used for assessment of ligand–receptor interaction and intratumoral T-cell labeling. Conclusion: The checkpoint interaction states quantified by iFRET did not correlate with ligand expression. We show that immune checkpoint ligand expression as a predictive biomarker may be unsuitable as it does not confirm checkpoint interactions. In pre-RFA-treated metastases, there was a significant and negative correlation between PD-1/PD-L1 interaction state and intratumoral CD3+ and CD8+ density. The negative correlation of CD8+ and interactive states of PD-1/PD-L1 can be used to assess the state of immune suppression in RFA-treated patients.
NDRG1 in Cancer: A Suppressor, Promoter, or Both?
Authors: Joshi Vaibhavi , Lakhani Sunil R. , McCart Reed Amy E.
Published: November 2022

N-myc downregulated gene-1 (NDRG1) has been variably reported as a metastasis suppressor, a biomarker of poor outcome, and a facilitator of disease progression in a range of different cancers. NDRG1 is poorly understood in cancer due to its context-dependent and pleiotropic functions. Within breast cancer, NDRG1 is reported to be either a facilitator of, or an inhibitor of tumour progression and metastasis. The wide array of roles played by NDRG1 are dependent on post-translational modifications and subcellular localization, as well as the cellular context, for example, cancer type. We present an update on NDRG1, and its association with hallmarks of cancer such as hypoxia, its interaction with oncogenic proteins such as p53 as well its role in oncogenic and metastasis pathways in breast and other cancers. We further comment on its functional implications as a metastasis suppressor and promoter, its clinical relevance, and discuss its therapeutic targetability in different cancers.
Prospectively Accelerated T2-Weighted Imaging of the Prostate by Combining Compressed SENSE and Deep Learning in Patients with Histologically Proven Prostate Cancer
Authors: Harder Felix N. , Weiss Kilian , Amiel Thomas , Peeters Johannes M. , Tauber Robert , Ziegelmayer Sebastian , Burian Egon , Makowski Marcus R. , Sauter Andreas P. , Gschwend Jürgen E. , Karampinos Dimitrios C. , Braren Rickmer F.
Published: November 2022

Background: To assess the performance of prospectively accelerated and deep learning (DL) reconstructed T2-weighted (T2w) imaging in volunteers and patients with histologically proven prostate cancer (PCa). Methods: Prospectively undersampled T2w datasets were acquired with acceleration factors of 1.7 (reference), 3.4 and 4.8 in 10 healthy volunteers and 23 patients with histologically proven PCa. Image reconstructions using compressed SENSE (C-SENSE) and a combination of C-SENSE and DL-based artificial intelligence (C-SENSE AI) were analyzed. Qualitative image comparison was performed using a 6-point Likert scale (overall image quality, noise, motion artifacts, lesion detection, diagnostic certainty); the T2 and PI-RADS scores were compared between the two reconstructions. Additionally, quantitative image parameters were assessed (apparent SNR, apparent CNR, lesion size, line profiles). Results: All C-SENSE AI-reconstructed images received a significantly higher qualitative rating compared to the C-SENSE standard images. Analysis of the quantitative parameters supported this finding, with significantly higher aSNR and aCNR. The line profiles demonstrated a significantly steeper signal change at the border of the prostatic lesion and the adjacent normal tissue in the C-SENSE AI-reconstructed images, whereas the T2 and PI-RADS scores as well as the lesion size did not differ. Conclusion: In this prospective study, we demonstrated the clinical feasibility of a novel C-SENSE AI reconstruction enabling a 58% acceleration in T2w imaging of the prostate while obtaining significantly better image quality.
An Inflammatory Response-Related Gene Signature Can Predict the Prognosis and Impact the Immune Status of Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Shi Yubo , Zhao Yingchun , Wang Yuanyong
Published: November 2022

Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) accounts for a cancer with high heterogeneity and poor prognostic outcome. Nonetheless, it is still unknown about the relation between inflammatory response-related genes (IRGs) and LUAD. This study used LASSO-Cox regression for establishing the multigene prognostic signature based on TCGA and the GSE31210 cohorts. In addition, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was performed for GO and KEGG analyses. By contrast, single-sample GSEA (ssGSEA) investigated immune cell infiltration scores as well as the immune pathway activity. We also conducted qRT-PCR and IHC to evaluate prognostic gene expression at protein and mRNA levels within LUAD and adjacent healthy samples. As a result, a novel prognostic signature involving 10 IRGs was identified. Furthermore, the signature has been validated as being important in functional analysis, TME, drug sensitivity, and prognosis prediction in LUAD. Moreover, prognostic genes showed significant expression at protein and mRNA levels in LUAD compared with normal samples. The signature involving 10 IRGs could potentially predict LUAD prognosis.
The Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma and Its Effect on the Infectious Eye Disease: A Nationwide Cohort Study
Authors: Lee Chia-Yi , Hsieh Ming-Ju , Huang Jing-Yang , Hwang Yih-Shiou , Chang Chao-Kai , Chen Hung-Chi , Yang Shun-Fa
Published: November 2022

The purpose of this study is to investigate the potential correlation between nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) and both infectious keratitis and orbital cellulitis. The retrospective cohort study used the National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD) as a data source. A total number of 4184 patients with NPC diagnosis were selected and matched to 16,736 non-NPC patients via the propensity-score matching (PSM). The main outcomes are the development of infectious keratitis and orbital cellulitis according to diagnostic codes and related medications. The Cox proportional hazard regression was adopted to estimate the adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) of outcomes between the two groups. A total of 35 and 19 episodes of orbital cellulitis occurred in the NPC and non-NPC groups and the aHR was significantly higher in the NPC group (aHR: 1.34, 95% CI: 1.23–1.46, p = 0.0024). There were 2185 and 659 events of infectious keratitis in the NPC and non-NPC groups, and the NPC group revealed a significantly higher aHR than non-NPC group (aHR: 1.34, 95% CI: 1.23–1.46, p < 0.0001). Besides, the cumulative probability of infectious keratitis was significantly higher in the NPC group than the non-NPC group (p < 0.0001). The other risk factors of infectious keratitis include age from 20 to 30 years old, allergic respiratory diseases, allergic dermatological diseases, and external eye diseases (all p < 0.0001). In subgroup analyses, both the incidences of infectious keratitis (aHR: 1.33, 95% CI: 1.21–1.47) and orbital cellulitis (aHR: 2.36, 95% CI: 1.27–4.39) were significantly higher than the non-NPC group. The incidence of infectious keratitis was significantly higher in NPC patients without radiotherapy (aHR: 1.40, 95% CI: 1.26–1.55) compared to non-NPC population, while the rate of orbital cellulitis was similar between the NPC patients without radiotherapy (aHR: 0.76, 95% CI: 0.27–2.14) and non-NPC population. In conclusion, the existence of NPC associates with higher incidence of infectious keratitis which increases with NPC period, and the radiotherapy may be account for the higher rate of orbital cellulitis in NPC population.
SrMnO3/Functionalized h-BN Composite Modified Disposable Sensor for the Voltammetric Determination of Furaltadone Antibiotic Drug
Authors: Venkatesh Krishnan , Rajakumaran Ramachandran , Chen Shen-Ming , Karuppasamy Periyakaruppan , Banach Artur , Al-Onazi Wedad A. , Sonadevi Selvam , Krishnan Nattamai Perumal , Yang Chun-Chen , Karuppiah Chelladurai , Ramaraj Sayee Kannan
Published: November 2022

Improper disposal of pharmaceutical drugs, including antibiotics, can affect the ecological system and generate serious health problems for living organisms. In this work, we have developed an electrochemical sensor based on a strontium manganese oxide/functionalized hexagonal boron nitride (SrMnO3/f-BN) electrocatalyst for the detection of the antibiotic drug furaltadone (FLD). Various analytical techniques were used to characterize the physicochemical properties of the as-prepared SrMnO3/f-BN composite. The as-fabricated SrMnO3/f-BN composite electrode showed excellent sensing activity towards FLD, with a wide linear range (0.01–152.11 µM) and low detection limit (2.0 nM). The sensor exhibited good selectivity towards FLD for detection in the presence of various interfering species (nitro compounds, metal ions, and biological compounds). Interestingly, real-time analysis using the proposed SrMnO3/f-BN composite was able to determine the FLD content in human urine and wastewater samples with good recovery. Hence, the as-developed SrMnO3/f-BN modified sensor could be viable in practical applications to target the antibiotic drug FLD in both human fluids and environmental samples.
Pseudomonas stutzeri Immobilized Sawdust Biochar for Nickel Ion Removal
Authors: Manikandan Soumya Koippully , Nair Vaishakh
Published: November 2022

Nickel ions generated from the electroplating industry and stainless steel and battery manufacturing industries contribute to water pollution, harm human health, and pose environmental risks. A long-term, sustainable, and efficient treatment method should be developed to address this issue. Bioremediation in the presence of biochar and microorganisms is a potential approach for metal ion abatement. This study evaluates the feasibility of Pseudomonas stutzeri immobilized sawdust biochar (PSDB) for Ni2+ removal. Sawdust biochar was prepared by pyrolyzing in a muffle furnace and was characterized using SEM, FTIR, and BET. The influence of biochar preparation parameters such as pyrolysis temperature, time on biochar yield, and impact on cell immobilization was investigated. The effect of various parameters, such as incubation time, pH, temperature, and biocatalyst dosage, was studied. The total Ni2+ in solution was analyzed using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry. PSDB showed an 83% Ni2+ removal efficiency and reusability up to three cycles. FT-IR analysis revealed that the mechanism of Ni2+ removal by PSDB was the synergistic effect of adsorption by biochar and bioaccumulation by P. stutzeri. This study presents a novel approach for environmental application by utilizing waste biomass-derived biochar as a carrier support for bacteria and an adsorbent for pollutants.
Structural Distortion of g-C3N4 Induced by N-Defects for Enhanced Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Su Fengyun , Wang Zhishuai , Xie Haiquan , Zhang Yezhen , Ding Chenghua , Ye Liqun
Published: November 2022

Hydrogen evolution by photocatalytic technology has been one of the most promising and attractive solutions, and can harvest and convert the abundant solar energy into green, renewable hydrogen energy. As a new kind of photocatalytic material, graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) has drawn much attention in photocataluytic H2 production due to its visible light response, ease of preparation and good stability. For a higher photocatalyic performance, N defects were introduced in to the traditional g-C3N4 in this work. The existence of N defects was proved by adequate material characterization. Significantly, a new absorption region at around 500 nm of N-deficient g-C3N4 appeared, revealing the exciting n-π* transition of lone pair electrons. The photocatalytic H2 production performance of N-deficient g-C3N4 was increased by 5.8 times. The enhanced photocatalytic performance of N-deficient g-C3N4 was attributed to the enhanced visible light absorption, as well as the promoted separation of photo-generated carries and increased specific surface area.
Synthesis of Oxygenated Hydrocarbons from Ethanol over Sulfided KCoMo-Based Catalysts: Influence of Novel Fiber- and Powder-Activated Carbon Supports
Authors: Dipheko Tshepo D. , Maximov Vladimir V. , Osman Mohamed E. , Eliseev Oleg L. , Cherednichenko Alexander G. , Sheshko Tatiana F. , Kogan Victor M.
Published: November 2022

Ethanol has become a viable feedstock for basic organic synthesis. The catalytic conversion of ethanol provides access to such chemicals as diethyl ether, ethyl acetate, and acetaldehyde. Carbonaceous materials are extensively studied as supports for heterogeneous catalysts due to their chemical and thermal stability, high surface area, and tunable texture. In this paper, ethanol conversion over K10Co3.7Mo12S-catalysts supported on novel activated carbon (AC) materials (i.e., novel powder-AC (DAS and YPK-1), fiber non-woven AC material (AHM), and fabric active sorption (TCA)) was investigated. The catalysts were prepared by the incipient wetness co-impregnation method followed by sulfidation. The catalysts were characterized by employing N2 adsorption–desorption measurements, TEM, SEM/EDX, UV–Vis spectroscopy, and XRF. Catalytic performance was assessed in a fixed-bed down-flow reactor operating at 320 °C, 2.5 MPa, and with continuous ethanol feeding in an He atmosphere. Activity is highly dependent on the support type and catalyst’s textural properties. The activity of the fiber-supported catalysts was found to be greater than the powder-supported catalysts. Ethanol conversion at T = 320 °C, P = 2.5 MPa, and GHSV = 760 L h−1 kgcat−1 increased as follows: (38.7%) KCoMoS2/YPK-1 < (49.5%) KCoMoS2/DAS < (58.2%) KCoMoS2/TCA < (67.1%) KCoMoS2/AHM. Catalysts supported by powder-AC enhanced the formation of MoS2-crystallites, whereas the high acidity of fiber-AC seemed to inhibit the formation of MoS2-crystallites. Simultaneously, a high surface area and a microporous catalytic structure enhance the formation of oxygenates from hydrocarbons. The dehydration and dehydrogenation reactions, which led to the creation of ethene and acetaldehyde, were shown to require a highly acidic catalyst, while the synthesis of ethyl acetate and higher alcohols required a less acidic catalyst.
Research Progress on Sulfur Deactivation and Regeneration over Cu-CHA Zeolite Catalyst
Authors: Ma Jiangli , Chang Shiying , Yu Fei , Lai Huilong , Zhao Yunkun
Published: November 2022

Benefiting from the exceptional selective catalytic reduction of NOx with ammonia (NH3-SCR) activity, excellent N2 selectivity, and superior hydrothermal durability, the Cu2+-exchanged zeolite catalyst with a chabazite structure (Cu-CHA) has been considered the predominant SCR catalyst in nitrogen oxide (NOx) abatement. However, sulfur poisoning remains one of the most significant deterrents to the catalyst in real applications. This review summarizes the NH3-SCR reaction mechanism on Cu-CHA, including the active sites and the nature of hydrothermal aging resistance. On the basis of the NH3-SCR reaction mechanism, the review gives a comprehensive summary of sulfate species, sulfate loading, emitted gaseous composition, and the impact of exposure temperature/time on Cu-CHA. The nature of the regeneration of sulfated catalysts is also covered in this review. The review gives a valuable summary of new insights into the matching between the design of NH3-SCR activity and sulfur resistance, highlighting the opportunities and challenges presented by Cu-CHA. Guidance for future sulfur poisoning diagnosis, effective regeneration strategies, and a design for an efficient catalyst for the aftertreatment system (ATS) are proposed to minimize the deterioration of NOx abatement in the future. Finally, we call for more attention to be paid to the effects of PO43- and metal co-cations with sulfur in the ATS.
A Segmental Approach from Molecular Profiling to Medical Imaging to Study Bicuspid Aortic Valve Aortopathy
Authors: Sophocleous Froso , De Garate Estefania , Bigotti Maria Giulia , Anwar Maryam , Jover Eva , Chamorro-Jorganes Aranzazu , Rajakaruna Cha , Mitrousi Konstantina , De Francesco Viola , Wilson Aileen , Stoica Serban , Parry Andrew , Benedetto Umberto , Chivasso Pierpaolo , Gill Frances , Hamilton Mark C. K. , Bucciarelli-Ducci Chiara , Caputo Massimo , Emanueli Costanza , Biglino Giovanni
Published: November 2022

Bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) patients develop ascending aortic (AAo) dilation. The pathogenesis of BAV aortopathy (genetic vs. haemodynamic) remains unclear. This study aims to identify regional changes around the AAo wall in BAV patients with aortopathy, integrating molecular data and clinical imaging. BAV patients with aortopathy (n = 15) were prospectively recruited to surgically collect aortic tissue and measure molecular markers across the AAo circumference. Dilated (anterior/right) vs. non-dilated (posterior/left) circumferential segments were profiled for whole-genomic microRNAs (next-generation RNA sequencing, miRCURY LNA PCR), protein content (tandem mass spectrometry), and elastin fragmentation and degeneration (histomorphometric analysis). Integrated bioinformatic analyses of RNA sequencing and proteomic datasets identified five microRNAs (miR-128-3p, miR-210-3p, miR-150-5p, miR-199b-5p, and miR-21-5p) differentially expressed across the AAo circumference. Among them, three miRNAs (miR-128-3p, miR-150-5p, and miR-199b-5p) were predicted to have an effect on eight common target genes, whose expression was dysregulated, according to proteomic analyses, and involved in the vascular-endothelial growth-factor signalling, Hippo signalling, and arachidonic acid pathways. Decreased elastic fibre levels and elastic layer thickness were observed in the dilated segments. Additionally, in a subset of patients n = 6/15, a four-dimensional cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) scan was performed. Interestingly, an increase in wall shear stress (WSS) was observed at the anterior/right wall segments, concomitantly with the differentially expressed miRNAs and decreased elastic fibres. This study identified new miRNAs involved in the BAV aortic wall and revealed the concomitant expressional dysregulation of miRNAs, proteins, and elastic fibres on the anterior/right wall in dilated BAV patients, corresponding to regions of elevated WSS.
Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Analysis of BraGLRs Reveal Their Potential Roles in Abiotic Stress Tolerance and Sexual Reproduction
Authors: Yang Liu , Zhao Yumei , Wu Xiaoyu , Zhang Yang , Fu Yehan , Duan Qiaohong , Ma Wei , Huang Jiabao
Published: November 2022

Glutamate receptors (GLRs) are involved in multiple functions during the plant life cycle through affecting the Ca2+ concentration. However, GLRs in Brassica species have not yet been reported. In this study, 16 glutamate receptor-like channels (GLR) belonged to two groups were identified in the Brassica rapa (B. rapa) genome by bioinformatic analysis. Most members contain domains of ANF_receptor, Peripla_BP_6, Lig_chan, SBP_bac_3, and Lig_chan_Glu_bd that are closely related to glutamate receptor channels. This gene family contains many elements associated with drought stress, low temperature stress, methyl jasmonate (MeJA), salicylic acid (SA), and other stress resistance. Gene expression profiles showed that BraGLR genes were expressed in roots, stems, leaves, flowers, and siliques. BraGLR5 expression was elevated after drought stress in drought-sensitive plants. BraGLR1, BraGLR8, and BraGLR11 expression were significantly upregulated after salt stress. BraGLR3 expression is higher in the female sterile-line mutants than in the wild type. The expression levels of BraGLR6, BraGLR9, BraGLR12, and BraGLR13 were significantly higher in the male sterile-line mutants than in the wild type. The expression of most BraGLRs increased after self-pollination, with BraGLR9 exhibiting the greatest increase. These results suggest that BraGLRs play an important role in abiotic stress tolerance and sexual reproduction.
Single-Cell Sequencing Reveals the Regulatory Role of Maresin1 on Neutrophils during Septic Lung Injury
Authors: Wang Fuquan , Chen Ming , Wang Chenchen , Xia Haifa , Zhang Dingyu , Yao Shanglong
Published: November 2022

Acute lung injury (ALI) is the most common type of organ injury in sepsis, with high morbidity and mortality. Sepsis is characterized by an inappropriate inflammatory response while neutrophils exert an important role in the excessive inflammatory response. The discovery of specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs) provides a new direction for the treatment of a series of inflammatory-related diseases including sepsis. Among them, the regulation of Maresin1 on immune cells was widely demonstrated. However, current research on the regulatory effects of Maresin1 on immune cells has remained at the level of certain cell types. Under inflammatory conditions, the immune environment is complex and immune cells exhibit obvious heterogeneity. Neutrophils play a key role in the occurrence and development of septic lung injury. Whether there is a subpopulation bias in the regulation of neutrophils by Maresin1 has not been elucidated. Therefore, with the well-established cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) model and single-cell sequencing technology, our study reveals for the first time the regulatory mechanism of Maresin1 on neutrophils at the single-cell level. Our study suggested that Maresin1 can significantly reduce neutrophil infiltration in septic lung injury and that this regulatory effect is more concentrated in the Neutrophil-Cxcl3 subpopulation. Maresin1 can significantly reduce the infiltration of the Neutrophil-Cxcl3 subpopulation and inhibit the expression of related inflammatory genes and key transcription factors in the Neutrophil-Cxcl3 subpopulation. Our study provided new possibilities for specific modulation of neutrophil function in septic lung injury.
A Turn-Off Fluorescent Strategy for Calprotectin Detection Based on the Inhibitory Effect of Calprotectin upon the Activity of Zn(Ⅱ)-Dependent DNAzyme
Authors: Si Jingyi , Zhou Wei , Zhou Da , Fang Ying , Shen Xizhong , Zhu Changfeng
Published: November 2022

Calprotectin (CP) is an established biomarker that allows the noninvasive evaluation of inflammation levels in the gastrointestinal tract of patients with inflammatory bowel disease and is helpful for the diagnosis and management of the disease. Herein, we demonstrate that CP can effectively suppress the activity of 17E DNAzyme (17E) by chelating Zn(Ⅱ), which is the cofactor of 17E. As the inhibition efficiency of CP on the DNAzyme is proportional to the concentration of CP, the detection of CP can be readily achieved by assessing the activity of 17E.