bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long Short-Term Memory Recurrent Neural Network Approach for Approximating Roots (Eigen Values) of Transcendental Equation of Cantilever Beam
Authors: Bukhsh Madiha , Ali Muhammad Saqib , Alourani Abdullah , Shinan Khlood , Ashraf Muhammad Usman , Jabbar Abdul , Chen Weiqiu
Published: February 2023

In this study, the natural frequencies and roots (Eigenvalues) of the transcendental equation in a cantilever steel beam for transverse vibration with clamped free (CF) boundary conditions are estimated using a long short-term memory-recurrent neural network (LSTM-RNN) approach. The finite element method (FEM) package ANSYS is used for dynamic analysis and, with the aid of simulated results, the Euler–Bernoulli beam theory is adopted for the generation of sample datasets. Then, a deep neural network (DNN)-based LSTM-RNN technique is implemented to approximate the roots of the transcendental equation. Datasets are mainly based on the cantilever beam geometry characteristics used for training and testing the proposed LSTM-RNN network. Furthermore, an algorithm using MATLAB platform for numerical solutions is used to cross-validate the dataset results. The network performance is evaluated using the mean square error (MSE) and mean absolute error (MAE). Finally, the numerical and simulated results are compared using the LSTM-RNN methodology to demonstrate the network validity.
Assessment of Novel Modal Testing Methods for Structures Rotating in Water
Authors: Roig Rafel , Sánchez-Botello Xavier , Escaler Xavier
Published: February 2023

The current paper presents an investigation into novel modal testing methods applied to a disk–shaft structure at different rotating speeds in air and water. The structure was excited using three different methods: an instrumented hammer, a piezoelectric PZT patch glued on the disk and a transient ramp-up. The structural response was measured using an accelerometer and strain gauges mounted on board as well as accelerometers and displacement lasers mounted off board. The potential to excite the natural frequencies using each excitation method and to detect natural frequencies with each sensor was analyzed and compared. Numerical structural and acoustic–structural modal and harmonic analyses of the non-rotating disk in air and water were also performed, taking into consideration the PZT patch. The numerical results showed a close agreement with the experimental ones in both air and water. It was found that the rotating speed of the disk modified the detected natural frequencies, depending on the frame of reference of the sensor. Finally, the PZT patch and the transient ramp-up were proven to be reliable methods to excite the natural frequencies of the current test rig and to be potentially applicable in full-scale hydraulic turbines under operating conditions.
Xanthone Derivatives in the Fight against Glioblastoma and Other Cancers
Authors: Mazur Gabriela , Pańczyk-Straszak Katarzyna , Waszkielewicz Anna Maria
Published: February 2023

Xanthone derivatives constitute an interesting and widely studied group of compounds, both in terms of the activity of naturally occurring plant ingredients and as a scaffold with high biological activity potential for medicinal chemists. This group of compounds has already been the subject of reviews. However, our purpose was to prepare a publication for medicinal chemists to have a clear overview of anticancer activity, particularly in central nervous system cancer glioblastoma, and to be able to compare their new achievements to the anticancer activity that has already been found in this group. An integral part of the work is a tabular summary of the literature results of antineoplastic activity (e.g., IC50 values) for xanthone derivatives in various types of in vitro viability assays.
Dual-Mode Sensing Platform for Cancer Antigen 15-3 Determination Based on a Silica Nanochannel Array Using Electrochemiluminescence and Electrochemistry
Authors: Huang Jie , Zhang Tongtong , Zheng Yanyan , Liu Jiyang
Published: February 2023

An electrochemiluminescence-electrochemistry (ECL-EC) dual-mode sensing platform based on a vertically-ordered mesoporous silica films (VMSF) modified electrode was designed here for the sensitive and selective determination of cancer antigen 15-3 (CA 15-3), a specific biomarker of breast cancer. VMSF was assembled through a rapid electrochemically assisted self-assembly (EASA) method and plays a crucial role in signal amplification via a strong electrostatic interaction with the positively charged bifunctional probe Ru(bpy)32+. To construct the biorecognition interface, epoxy functional silane was linked to the surface of VMSF for further covalent immobilization of the antibody. As a benefit from the specific combination of antigen and antibody, a non-conductive immunocomplex layer was formed in the presence of CA 15-3, leading to the hinderance of the mass and electron transfer of the probes. Based on this strategy, the dual-mode determination of CA 15-3 ranging from 0.1 mU/mL to 100 mU/mL with a LOD of 9 μU/mL for ECL mode, and 10 mU/mL to 200 U/mL with a LOD of 5.4 mU/mL for EC mode, was achieved. The proposed immunosensor was successfully employed for the detection of CA 15-3 in human serum without tedious pretreatment.
Do Coping Motives and Perceived Impaired Control Mediate the Indirect Links from Childhood Trauma Facets to Alcohol-Related Problems?
Authors: Bitsoih Jai , Patock-Peckham Julie A. , Canning Jessica R. , Ong Annie , Becerra Allison , Broussard Matthew
Published: February 2023

Introduction: The Self-Medication Hypothesis suggests that individuals drink to alleviate undesirable affective states. Behavioral Economics Theory states that individuals deprived of resources (i.e., physically neglected) consume more reinforcing substances when they are available than others. Childhood trauma may indirectly increase impaired control over alcohol (IC; drinking beyond one’s own intentions) and thereby increase alcohol use and problems through the employment of coping-motives. Method: A structural equation model that included sex as a covariate examined mediated paths with 612 university students. Results: Men were less likely to be emotionally abused and were more likely to use greater amounts of alcohol than women did. Physical neglect was directly linked to both more IC and alcohol use. Emotional and sexual abuse were directly linked to more coping motives. Both emotional and sexual abuse were indirectly linked to more alcohol use and its related problems through increased coping motives and IC. Conclusions: Consistent with Behavioral Economics Theory, there was a direct link between physical neglect and IC. We also found partial support for the Self-Medication Hypothesis regarding the emotional and sexual abuse trauma dimensions; they indirectly contributed to alcohol use and its related problems via the mediating mechanisms of more coping motives and IC. Our findings suggest coping motives could be a therapeutic target for intervention among those sexually or emotionally abused.
Experimental Research on the Dynamic Characteristics of Several Model Soils in Small Strain Range and Application in Shaking Table Model Test
Authors: Ma Zhaoxia , Wang Guobo , Wang Yao
Published: February 2023

Reasonable model soil is very important in shaking table model tests to reduce the distortion of the soil structure stiffness ratio. Several model soils, such as sawdust soil, sawdust sand, rubber granular soil, rubber powder soil, and sawdust kaolin were prepared and a dynamic triaxial test proceeded to determine their dynamic characteristics. The experimental results showed that the variation of the dynamic shear modulus and dynamic damping ratio with dynamic shear strain was consistent with that of undisturbed soil. Finally, sawdust soil was adapted to a shaking table test of complex interaction systems and achieved good results. The results showed that sawdust soil is feasible as model soil. The research results can provide helpful references for the design of a similar shaking model test.
Evaluation of the Residual Seismic Capacity of Post-Earthquake Damaged RC Columns Based on the Damage Distribution Model
Authors: Li Lei , Chen Jing , Wang Wentao
Published: February 2023

Evaluation of the residual seismic capacity (RSC) of post-earthquake damaged buildings is instrumental to the formation of reasonable recovery strategies. At present, incremental dynamic analysis (IDA) that considers the mainshock and aftershock is the method most frequently used to evaluate the RSC of damaged structures. However, the mainshock-induced structural damage determined using the IDA method may be inconsistent with the damage observed in actual engineering. This inconsistency could potentially lead to an unreasonable evaluation result. To overcome this drawback, it is necessary to evaluate the RSC of damaged structures according to their observed damage instead of that obtained by the IDA. In this paper, a method of evaluating the RSC of damaged reinforced concrete (RC) columns is proposed. First, the damage degree and distribution of the damaged columns were evaluated via visual inspection after mainshocks. Then, a numerical model was developed to predict the residual behavior of damaged columns subjected to aftershocks. After that, the RSC of damaged columns was estimated based on fragility analysis. The degradation of the collapse capacity of damaged columns was quantified by the collapse fragility index (CFI), and a parameter analysis was conducted to study the effect of structural parameters on the CFI of damaged columns. Lastly, an empirical model for predicting the CFI was proposed, facilitating the application of this study in actual post-earthquake assessments. The parameter analysis indicates that the axial load ratio of the columns and the degree of damage degree accumulated during mainshocks have a significant effect on the CFI. Additionally, the proposed empirical model can effectively predict the degradation of the collapse capacity of RC columns in existing test data, with an accuracy of 0.82.
The Efficiency of Carbon Conversion and Hydrogen Production from Tar Steam Reforming of Biomass Using Ni-Based Catalysts with Alkaline Earth Promoters
Authors: Alir Afizah , Tuan Abdullah Tuan Amran , Johari Anwar , Mohamud Mohamed Yusuf , Phey Melissa Low Phey , Nabgan Walid , Medina Francisco , Ikram Muhammad
Published: February 2023

H2 production can be used as a clean and renewable energy source for various applications, including fuel cells, internal combustion engines, and chemical production. Using nickel-based catalysts for steam reforming biomass tar presents challenges related to catalyst deactivation, poisoning, heterogeneous composition, high process temperatures, and gas impurities. To overcome these challenges, adopting a nickel-based catalyst with selected oxide support and MgO and CaO promoter is a promising approach for improving the efficiency and sustainability of steam reforming for hydrogen production. The majority of studies conducted to date have focused on the steam reforming of particular tar compounds, most commonly benzene, phenol, toluene, or naphthalene, over a range of support catalysts. However, the actual biomass tar composition is complex, and each component impacts how well steam reforming works. In this research, a multi-compound biomass tar model including phenol, toluene, naphthalene, and pyrene underwent a steam reforming process. Various types with 10 wt.% of nickel-based catalysts were generated by the co-impregnation technique, which included 90 wt.% different oxide supports (Al2O3, La2O3, and ZrO2) and 10 wt.% of combination alkaline oxide earth promoters (MgO and CaO). Thermogravimetric analysis, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) method, N2 physisorption, temperature-programmed reduction (H2-TPR), temperature-programmed desorption (CO2-TPD), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) of ni-based catalyst characterized physiochemical properties of the prepared catalyst. The reaction temperature used for steam reforming was 800 °C, an S/C ratio of 1, and a GHSV of 13,500 h−1. Ni/La2O3/MgO/CaO (NiLaMgCa) produced the most carbon to-gas conversion (86.27 mol%) and H2 yield (51.58 mol%) after 5 h of reaction compared to other catalysts tested in this study. Additionally, the filamentous carbon coke deposited on the spent catalyst of NiLaMgCa does not impact the catalyst activity. NiLaMgCa was the best catalyst compared to other catalysts investigated, exhibiting a stable and high catalytic performance in the steam reforming of gasified biomass tar. In conclusion, this study presents a novel approach by adding a combination of MgO and CaO promoters to a ni-based catalyst with various oxide supports, strengthening the metal-support interaction and improving the acid-base balance of the catalyst surface. The mesoporous structure and active phase (metallic Ni) were successfully developed. This can lead to an increase in the conversion of tar to H2 yield gas and a decrease in the production of undesired byproducts, such as CH4 and CO.
Role of RUNX3 in Restriction Point Regulation
Authors: Lee Jung-Won , Lee You-Soub , Kim Min-Kyu , Chi Xin-Zi , Kim Dohun , Bae Suk-Chul
Published: February 2023

A cell cycle is a series of events that takes place in a cell as it grows and divides. At the G1 phase of cell cycle, cells monitor their cumulative exposure to specific signals and make the critical decision to pass through the restriction (R)-point. The R-point decision-making machinery is fundamental to normal differentiation, apoptosis, and G1–S transition. Deregulation of this machinery is markedly associated with tumorigenesis. Therefore, identification of the molecular mechanisms that govern the R-point decision is one of the fundamental issues in tumor biology. RUNX3 is one of the genes frequently inactivated in tumors by epigenetic alterations. In particular, RUNX3 is downregulated in most K-RAS-activated human and mouse lung adenocarcinomas (ADCs). Targeted inactivation of Runx3 in the mouse lung induces adenomas (ADs), and markedly shortens the latency of ADC formation induced by oncogenic K-Ras. RUNX3 participates in the transient formation of R-point-associated activator (RPA-RX3-AC) complexes, which measure the duration of RAS signals and thereby protect cells against oncogenic RAS. This review focuses on the molecular mechanism by which the R-point participates in oncogenic surveillance.
Analysis of Wild Type and Variant B Cystatin C Interactome in Retinal Pigment Epithelium Cells Reveals Variant B Interacting Mitochondrial Proteins
Authors: Carlsson Emil , Sharif Umar , Supharattanasitthi Wasu , Paraoan Luminita
Published: February 2023

Cystatin C, a secreted cysteine protease inhibitor, is abundantly expressed in retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells. A mutation in the protein’s leader sequence, corresponding to formation of an alternate variant B protein, has been linked with an increased risk for both age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Variant B cystatin C displays intracellular mistrafficking with partial mitochondrial association. We hypothesized that variant B cystatin C interacts with mitochondrial proteins and impacts mitochondrial function. We sought to determine how the interactome of the disease-related variant B cystatin C differs from that of the wild-type (WT) form. For this purpose, we expressed cystatin C Halo-tag fusion constructs in RPE cells to pull down proteins interacting with either the WT or variant B form, followed by identification and quantification by mass spectrometry. We identified a total of 28 interacting proteins, of which 8 were exclusively pulled down by variant B cystatin C. These included 18 kDa translocator protein (TSPO) and cytochrome B5 type B, both of which are localized to the mitochondrial outer membrane. Variant B cystatin C expression also affected RPE mitochondrial function with increased membrane potential and susceptibility to damage-induced ROS production. The findings help us to understand how variant B cystatin C differs functionally from the WT form and provide leads to RPE processes adversely affected by the variant B genotype.
Examining the Utility of Rapid Salivary C-Reactive Protein as a Predictor for Neonatal Sepsis: An Analytical Cross-Sectional Pilot Study
Authors: Ramavath Chaitra , Katam Shravan Kumar , Vardhelli Venkateshwarlu , Deshabhotla Saikiran , Oleti Tejo Pratap
Published: February 2023

This study aimed to compare the rapid bedside quantitative assessment of C-reactive protein (CRP) in saliva to serum CRP to predict blood culture-positive sepsis in neonates. The research was carried out over eight months at Fernandez Hospital in India (February 2021–September 2021). The study included 74 randomly selected neonates with clinical symptoms or risk factors of neonatal sepsis requiring blood culture evaluation. SpotSense rapid CRP test was conducted to estimate salivary CRP. In analysis, the area under the curve (AUC) on the receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve was used. The study population’s mean gestational age and median birth weight were 34.1 weeks (SD: ±4.8) and 2370 g (IQR: 1067–3182). The AUC on ROC curve analysis for predicting culture-positive sepsis was 0.72 (95% CI: 0.58 to 0.86, p-value: 0.002) for serum CRP and 0.83 (95% CI: 0.70 to 0.97, p-value: <0.0001) for salivary CRP. The Pearson correlation coefficient between salivary and serum CRP was moderate (r = 0.352, p-value: 0.002). Salivary CRP cut-off scores were comparable to serum CRP in terms of sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, and accuracy in predicting culture-positive sepsis. The rapid bedside assessment of salivary CRP appears to be an easy and promising non-invasive tool in culture-positive sepsis prediction.
Similarities in Pathogenetic Mechanisms Underlying the Bidirectional Relationship between Endometriosis and Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
Authors: Kobayashi Hiroshi
Published: February 2023

Background: Endometriosis is a common inflammatory disease characterized by the presence of endometrial cells outside of the uterine cavity. Endometriosis affects 10% of women of reproductive age and significantly reduces their quality of life as a result of chronic pelvic pain and infertility. Biologic mechanisms, including persistent inflammation, immune dysfunction, and epigenetic modifications, have been proposed as the pathogenesis of endometriosis. In addition, endometriosis can potentially be associated with an increased risk of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Changes in the vaginal microbiota associated with bacterial vaginosis (BV) result in PID or a severe form of abscess formation, tubo-ovarian abscess (TOA). This review aims to summarize the pathophysiology of endometriosis and PID and to discuss whether endometriosis may predispose to PID and vice versa. Methods: Papers published between 2000 and 2022 in the PubMed and Google Scholar databases were included. Results: Available evidence supports that women with endometriosis are at increased risk of comorbid PID and vice versa, supporting that endometriosis and PID are likely to coexist. There is a bidirectional relationship between endometriosis and PID that shares a similar pathophysiology, which includes the distorted anatomy favorable to bacteria proliferation, hemorrhage from endometriotic lesions, alterations to the reproductive tract microbiome, and impaired immune response modulated by aberrant epigenetic processes. However, whether endometriosis predisposes to PID or vice versa has not been identified. Conclusions: This review summarizes our current understanding of the pathogenesis of endometriosis and PID and discusses the similarities between them.
A Network Analysis of Control–Value Appraisals and Classroom-Related Enjoyment, Boredom, and Pride
Authors: Putwain David William , Daumiller Martin
Published: February 2023

Control–value theory (CVT) proposes that discrete emotions arise from combinations of control–value appraisals of learning activities and outcomes. Studies have supported this proposition using factor analytic and latent profile, analyses. Network analysis (NA), however, has not been widely used within the field of educational psychology or to investigate the propositions of CVT. In the present study we set out to examine how control–value appraisals related to three commonly experienced classroom emotions, enjoyment, boredom, and pride, using network analysis. In addition, we included positive and negative facets of value. The sample comprised 170 students (53.5% female) in their first year of secondary education who responded to survey items in a cross-sectional design. NA shows a two-dimensional graphical network of items (edges) and the relations between them (edges). In addition, statistical indices can be used to identify those nodes that show numerous or strong links to others or bridge clusters (communities) of nodes. The NA demonstrated that emotions and value (positive and negative) but not control cohered into distinct communities. Many, but not all, edges were in support of CVT; there were positive links between control/positive value and enjoyment and pride, and negative links for boredom, as well as negative links between negative value and enjoyment and pride, and positive links for boredom. Three control–value nodes were particularly influential: that lessons were important/valuable (positively) and that work required too much time (negatively). Interventions and classroom instructional strategies that build value/importance and reduce perceptions of time cost may be particularly effective in facilitating positive emotions and reducing negative emotions.
Comparison between Compressive Sensing and Non-Uniform Array for a MIMO GBSAR with Elevation Resolution: Simulations and Experimental Tests
Authors: Beni Alessandra , Miccinesi Lapo , Pieraccini Massimiliano
Published: February 2023

Ground-based synthetic aperture radars (GBSAR) are popular instruments widely used for the monitoring of infrastructures. One of the main problems of ground-based interferometric radars is the elevation ambiguity. Multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) arrays could solve this problem. This work proposes a study on possible MIMO configurations to achieve elevation resolution in ground-based radar measurements. Specifically, two array configurations are compared: a random sparse array suitable for the compressive sensing technique, and a non-uniform array. The two solutions are compared by means of simulations and experimental tests. An ad hoc system has been developed to jointly test the two configurations, and results obtained in a controlled and real urban scenario are shown. It is found that both systems are able to solve elevation ambiguity. The non-uniform array seems to achieve good performance in a general scenario, while the CS processing can outperform the other only after optimization, depending on the specific scenario and application.
Applications of Microwaves in Medicine Leveraging Artificial Intelligence: Future Perspectives
Authors: Gopalakrishnan Keerthy , Adhikari Aakriti , Pallipamu Namratha , Singh Mansunderbir , Nusrat Tasin , Gaddam Sunil , Samaddar Poulami , Rajagopal Anjali , Cherukuri Akhila Sai Sree , Yadav Anmol , Manga Shreya Sai , Damani Devanshi N. , Shivaram Suganti , Dey Shuvashis , Roy Sayan , Mitra Dipankar , Arunachalam Shivaram P.
Published: February 2023

Microwaves are non-ionizing electromagnetic radiation with waves of electrical and magnetic energy transmitted at different frequencies. They are widely used in various industries, including the food industry, telecommunications, weather forecasting, and in the field of medicine. Microwave applications in medicine are relatively a new field of growing interest, with a significant trend in healthcare research and development. The first application of microwaves in medicine dates to the 1980s in the treatment of cancer via ablation therapy; since then, their applications have been expanded. Significant advances have been made in reconstructing microwave data for imaging and sensing applications in the field of healthcare. Artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled microwave systems can be developed to augment healthcare, including clinical decision making, guiding treatment, and increasing resource-efficient facilities. An overview of recent developments in several areas of microwave applications in medicine, namely microwave imaging, dielectric spectroscopy for tissue classification, molecular diagnostics, telemetry, biohazard waste management, diagnostic pathology, biomedical sensor design, drug delivery, ablation treatment, and radiometry, are summarized. In this contribution, we outline the current literature regarding microwave applications and trends across the medical industry and how it sets a platform for creating AI-based microwave solutions for future advancements from both clinical and technical aspects to enhance patient care.
Artificial Intelligence as a Disruptive Technology—A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Păvăloaia Vasile-Daniel , Necula Sabina-Cristiana
Published: February 2023

The greatest technological changes in our lives are predicted to be brought about by Artificial Intelligence (AI). Together with the Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain, and several others, AI is considered to be the most disruptive technology, and has impacted numerous sectors, such as healthcare (medicine), business, agriculture, education, and urban development. The present research aims to achieve the following: identify how disruptive technologies have evolved over time and their current acceptation (1); extract the most prominent disruptive technologies, besides AI, that are in use today (2); and elaborate on the domains that were impacted by AI and how this occurred (3). Based on a sentiment analysis of the titles and abstracts, the results reveal that the majority of recent publications have a positive connotation with regard to the disruptive impact of edge technologies, and that the most prominent examples (the top five) are AI, the IoT, blockchain, 5G, and 3D printing. The disruptive effects of AI technology are still changing how people interact in the corporate, consumer, and professional sectors, while 5G and other mobile technologies will become highly disruptive and will genuinely revolutionize the landscape in all sectors in the upcoming years.
Prediction of Packet Loss Rate in Non-Stationary Networks Based on Time-Varying Autoregressive Sequences
Authors: Wu Xiaorui , Wu Chunling , Deng Pei
Published: February 2023

Currently, most of the existing link parameter prediction schemes assume that the link state remains constant during the measurement period, making it difficult to capture their time-varying characteristics. To solve this problem, this paper proposes a prediction problem for packet loss rate in a non-stationary network environment. The measurement period is divided into several adjacent time windows, and the packet loss rates measured passively in each time window are regarded as non-stationary time sequences for real-time tracking to obtain the changes in link packet loss rate at a small cost. By analyzing time-varying autoregressive (TVAR) sequences, a scheme for estimating the time-varying coefficient was presented. In addition, a prediction scheme for the packet loss rate in a non-stationary network was proposed based on TVAR sequences. Finally, this paper conducts experiments based on a non-stationary network simulation environment established by the improved Gilbert–Elliot model and a small wireless multi-hop network experiment platform built in reality. Simulation and experimental results show that the prediction scheme of the packet loss rate based on the TVAR sequence can accurately predict the packet loss rate.
An Optimized, Dynamic, and Efficient Load-Balancing Framework for Resource Management in the Internet of Things (IoT) Environment
Authors: Shuaib Mohammed , Bhatia Surbhi , Alam Shadab , Masih Raj Kumar , Alqahtani Nayef , Basheer Shakila , Alam Mohammad Shabbir
Published: February 2023

Major problems and issues in Internet of Things (IoT) systems include load balancing, lowering operational expenses, and power usage. IoT devices typically run on batteries because they lack direct access to a power source. Geographical conditions that make it difficult to access the electrical network are a common cause. Finding ways to ensure that IoT devices consume the least amount of energy possible is essential. When the network is experiencing high traffic, locating and interacting with the next hop is critical. Finding the best route to load balance by switching to a less crowded channel is hence crucial in network congestion. Due to the restrictions indicated above, this study analyzes three significant issues—load balancing, energy utilization, and computation cost—and offers a solution. To address these resource allocation issues in the IoT, we suggest a reliable method in this study termed Dynamic Energy-Efficient Load Balancing (DEELB). We conducted several experiments, such as bandwidth analysis, in which the DEELB method used 990.65 kbps of bandwidth for 50 operations, while other existing techniques, such as EEFO (Energy-Efficient Opportunistic), DEERA (Dynamic Energy-Efficient Resource Allocation), ELBS (Efficient Load-Balancing Security), and DEBTS (Delay Energy Balanced Task Scheduling), used 1700.91 kbps, 1500.82 kbps, 1300.65 kbps, and 1200.15 kbps of bandwidth, respectively. The experiment’s numerical analysis showed that our method was superior to other ways in terms of effectiveness and efficiency.
A New Optimal Method for the Secure Design of Combinational Circuits against Hardware Trojans Using Interference Logic Locking
Authors: Mirmohammadi Zahra , Etemadi Borujeni Shahram
Published: February 2023

Effective resistance to intellectual property theft, reverse engineering, and hardware Trojan insertion in integrated circuit supply chains is increasingly essential, for which many solutions have been proposed. Accordingly, strong attacks are also designed in this field. One way to achieve the above goal is obfuscation. The hardware obfuscation method hides the primary function of the circuit and the normal Netlist from the attacker by adding several key gates in the original Netlist. The functionality circuit is correct only if the correct key is applied; otherwise, the circuit is obfuscated. In recent years, various obfuscation methods have been proposed. One is logic locking, the most prominent hardware protection technique since it can protect against untrusted items. Logic locking induces functional and structural changes to a design even before the layout generation. We secured the circuit against hardware Trojan insertion with a secure logic locking method based on the insertion of key gates in interference mode. We call our proposed method Secure Interference Logic Locking, SILL. SILL is based on minimum controllability in paths with maximum fan-out. In this method, we have reduced the number of key gates required for circuit obfuscation and created the maximum Hamming distance between normal and obscure outputs. In addition, the key gates are added to the circuit’s complete interference, and the AES algorithm is used to generate the key. Our proposed method, SILL, was simulated in the Vivado simulation environment; the algorithms used in this method were prepared in VHDL language and designed to allow parallel execution, then applied on the original Netlist of the ISCAS85 benchmark circuits. By analyzing and comparing the results of this simulation to recent works, the amount of hardware consumption has decreased (about 5% space consumption and about a 0.15-nanosecond time delay). Then, the SAT attack algorithm was tested on ISCAS85 benchmark circuits that were obfuscated with SILL. The execution time of the attack in the second attempt was 0.24 nanoseconds longer compared to similar recent works, and it timed out in the fourth attempt. The resistance of our proposed method, having less hardware overhead and higher speed is more effective against SAT attacks than the existing conventional methods.
Simultaneous Extraction of Bioactive Compounds from Olea europaea L. Leaves and Healthy Seed Oils Using Pressurized Propane
Authors: Jaski Jonas Marcelo , da Cruz Rayane Monique Sete , Pimentel Tatiana Colombo , Stevanato Natalia , da Silva Camila , Barão Carlos Eduardo , Cardozo-Filho Lucio
Published: February 2023

Olive leaves (OL) are products of olive cultivation with a high commercial value because they contain valuable bioactive compounds. Chia and sesame seeds have a high functional value because of their attractive nutritional properties. When combined in the extraction process, the two products constitute a product of high quality. The use of pressurized propane in vegetable oil extraction is advantageous because it provides solvent-free oil. This study aimed to combine two high-quality products to obtain oils with a unique combination of attractive nutritional properties and high levels of bioactive compounds. The mass percentage yields of the OL extracts with chia and sesame oils were 23.4% and 24.8%, respectively. The fatty acid profiles of the pure oils and their respective OL-enriched oils were similar. There was an aggregation of the 35% and 32% (v/v) bioactive OL compounds in chia and sesame oils, respectively. OL oils exhibited superior antioxidant capacities. The induction times of the OL extracts with the sesame and chia oils increased by 73% and 4.4%, respectively. Incorporating OL active compounds in healthy edible vegetable oils using propane as a solvent promotes the reduction of lipid oxidation, improves the lipid profiles and health indices of the oils, and forms a product with attractive nutritional characteristics.
The Spatio-Temporal Evolution of Food Production and Self-Sufficiency in China from 1978 to 2020: From the Perspective of Calories
Authors: Zhang Jing , Fang Yu , Zheng Hua , Fan Shenggen , Du Taisheng
Published: February 2023

Ensuring national food security is an eternal topic. We unified six categories of food with calorie content including grain, oil, sugar, fruits and vegetables, animal husbandry, and aquatic products on the basis of provincial-level data, and we dynamically evaluated caloric production capacity and the supply–demand equilibrium under the increase in feed-grain consumption as well as the food losses and waste in China from 1978 to 2020 at four different levels. The results show that: (1) From the perspective of food production, the total national calorie production showed a linear growth trend, with a growth rate of 31.7 × 1012 kcal/year, of which the proportion of grain crops has always exceeded 60%. Most provinces showed significant increasing trends in food calorific production, except for Beijing, Shanghai, and Zhejiang, which showed slightly decreasing trends. The distribution pattern of food calories and their growth rate were high in the east and low in the west. (2) From the perspective of the food supply–demand equilibrium, the national food calorie supply has been in surplus since 1992, but significant spatial heterogeneity is detected, with the Main Marketing Region changing from a tight balance to a short surplus, North China always remaining in calorie shortage, and 15 provinces still presenting supply and demand gaps up to 2020, necessitating the establishment of a more efficient and faster flow and trade system. (3) The national food caloric center has shifted 204.67 km to the northeast, and the population center has shifted to the southwest. The reverse migration of the centers of food supply and demand will further aggravate the pressure on water and soil resources and cause higher requirements for ensuring the circulation and trade system of food supply. The results are of great significance for the timely adjustment of agricultural development policies, making rational use of natural advantages and ensuring China’s food security and sustainable agricultural development.
Phytochemicals Recovery from Grape Pomace: Extraction Improvement and Chemometric Study
Authors: Ferri Maura , Lima Vasco , Zappi Alessandro , Fernando Ana , Melucci Dora , Tassoni Annalisa
Published: February 2023

In the last 20 years, an increased interest has been shown in the application of different types and combinations of enzymes to obtain phenolic extracts from grape pomace in order to maximize its valorization. Within this framework, the present study aims at improving the recovery of phenolic compounds from Merlot and Garganega pomace and at contributing to the scientific background of enzyme-assisted extraction. Five commercial cellulolytic enzymes were tested in different conditions. Phenolic compound extraction yields were analyzed via a Design of Experiments (DoE) methodology and a second extraction step with acetone was sequentially added. According to DoE, 2% w/w enzyme/substrate ratio was more effective than 1%, allowing a higher total phenol recovery, while the effect of incubation time (2 or 4 h) variation was more enzyme-dependent. Extracts were characterized via spectrophotometric and HPLC-DAD analyses. The results proved that enzymatic and acetone Merlot and Garganega pomace extracts were complex mixtures of compounds. The use of different cellulolytic enzymes led to different extract compositions, as demonstrated using PCA models. The enzyme effects were observed both in water enzymatic and in the subsequent acetone extracts, probably due to their specific grape cell wall degradation and leading to the recovery of different molecule arrays.
Near-Surface 2D Imaging via FWI of DAS Data: An Examination on the Impacts of FWI Starting Model
Authors: Yust Michael B. S. , Cox Brady R. , Vantassel Joseph P. , Hubbard Peter G. , Boehm Christian , Krischer Lion
Published: February 2023

Full waveform inversion (FWI) and distributed acoustic sensing (DAS) are powerful tools with potential to improve how seismic site characterization is performed. FWI is able to provide true 2D or 3D images of the subsurface by inverting stress wave recordings collected over a wide variety of scales. DAS can be used to efficiently collect high-resolution stress wave recordings from long and complex fiber optic arrays and is well-suited for large-scale site characterization projects. Due to the relative novelty of combining FWI and DAS, there is presently little published literature regarding the application of FWI to DAS data for near-surface (depths < 30 m) site characterization. We perform 2D FWI on DAS data collected at a well-characterized site using four different, site-specific 1D and 2D starting models. We discuss the unique benefits and challenges associated with inverting DAS data compared to traditional geophone data. We examine the impacts of using the various starting models on the final 2D subsurface images. We demonstrate that while the inversions performed using all four starting models are able to fit the major features of the DAS waveforms with similar misfit values, the final subsurface images can be quite different from one another at depths greater than about 10 m. As such, the best representation(s) of the subsurface are evaluated based on: (1) their agreement with borehole lithology logs that were not used in the development of the starting models, and (2) consistency at shallow depths between the final inverted images derived from multiple starting models. Our results demonstrate that FWI applied to DAS data has significant potential as a tool for near-surface site characterization while also emphasizing the significant impact that starting model selection can have on FWI results.
Spatiotemporal Optimization for the Placement of Automated External Defibrillators Using Mobile Phone Data
Authors: Zhang Jielu , Mu Lan , Zhang Donglan , Rajbhandari-Thapa Janani , Chen Zhuo , Pagán José A. , Li Yan , Son Heejung , Liu Junxiu
Published: February 2023

With over 350,000 cases occurring each year, out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) remains a severe public health concern in the United States. The correct and timely use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) has been widely acknowledged as an effective measure to improve the survival rate of OHCA. While general guidelines have been provided by the American Heart Association (AHA) for AED deployment, the lack of detailed instructions hindered the adoption of such guidelines under dynamic scenarios with various time and space distributions. Formulating the AED deployment as a location optimization problem under budget and resource constraints, we proposed an overlayed spatio-temporal optimization (OSTO) method, which accounted for the spatiotemporal heterogeneity of potential OHCAs. To highlight the effectiveness of the proposed model, we applied the proposed method to Washington DC using user-generated anonymized mobile device location data. The results demonstrated that optimization-based planning provided an improved AED coverage level. We further evaluated the effectiveness of adding additional AEDs by analyzing the cost-coverage increment curve. In general, our framework provides a systematic approach for municipalities to integrate inclusive planning and budget-limited efficiency into their final decision-making. Given the high practicality and adaptability of the framework, the OSTO is highly amenable to different healthcare facilities’ deployment tasks with flexible demand and resource restraints.
Renal Insufficiency Increases the Combined Risk of Left Ventricular Hypertrophy and Dysfunction in Patients at High Risk of Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Lu Xiaozhao , Li Qiang , Deng Jingru , Kang Yu , Liang Guoxiao , Deng Linxiao , Guo Lei , Ruan Haodong , Peng Zibi , Li Jiaxi , Tan Ning , Chen Jiyan , Liu Jin , Wang Amanda Y. , Liu Yong
Published: February 2023

Background: The identification of asymptomatic structural and functional cardiac abnormalities can help us to recognize early and intervene in patients at pre-heart failure (HF). However, few studies have adequately evaluated the associations of renal function and left ventricular (LV) structure and function in patients at high risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Methods: Patients undergoing coronary angiography and/or percutaneous coronary interventions were enrolled from the Cardiorenal ImprovemeNt II (CIN-II) cohort study, and their echocardiography and renal function were assessed at admission. Patients were divided into five groups according to their estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Our outcomes were LV hypertrophy and LV systolic and diastolic dysfunction. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted to investigate the associations of eGFR with LV hypertrophy and LV systolic and diastolic dysfunction. Results: A total of 5610 patients (mean age: 61.6 ± 10.6 years; 27.3% female) were included in the final analysis. The prevalence of LV hypertrophy assessed by echocardiography was 29.0%, 34.8%, 51.9%, 66.7%, and 74.3% for the eGFR categories >90, 61–90, 31–60, 16–30, and ≤15 mL/min per 1.73 m2 or for patients needing dialysis, respectively. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that subjects with eGFR levels of ≤15 mL/min per 1.73 m2 or needing dialysis (OR: 4.66, 95% CI: 2.96–7.54), as well as those with eGFR levels of 16–30 (OR: 3.87, 95% CI: 2.43–6.24), 31–60 (OR: 2.00, 95% CI: 1.64–2.45), and 61–90 (OR: 1.23, 95% CI: 1.07–1.42), were significantly associated with LV hypertrophy. This reduction in renal function was also significantly associated with LV systolic and diastolic dysfunction (all P for trend <0.001). In addition, a per one unit decrease in eGFR was associated with a 2% heightened combined risk of LV hypertrophy and systolic and diastolic dysfunction. Conclusions: Among patients at high risk of CVD, poor renal function was strongly associated with cardiac structural and functional abnormalities. In addition, the presence or absence of CAD did not change the associations. The results may have implications for the pathophysiology behind cardiorenal syndrome.
Tricalcium Phosphate as a Bone Substitute to Treat Massive Acetabular Bone Defects in Hip Revision Surgery: A Systematic Review and Initial Clinical Experience with 11 Cases
Authors: Romagnoli Matteo , Casali Marco , Zaffagnini Marco , Cucurnia Ilaria , Raggi Federico , Reale Davide , Grassi Alberto , Zaffagnini Stefano
Published: February 2023

The use of tricalcium phosphate (TCP) as a bone substitute is gaining increasing interest to treat severe acetabular bone defects in revision total hip arthroplasty (rTHA). The aim of this study was to investigate the evidence regarding the efficacy of this material. A systematic review of the literature was performed according to the PRISMA and Cochrane guidelines. The study quality was assessed using the modified Coleman Methodology Score (mCMS) for all studies. A total of eight clinical studies (230 patients) were identified: six on TCP used as biphasic ceramics composed of TCP and hydroxyapatite (HA), and two as pure-phase ceramics consisting of TCP. The literature analysis showed eight retrospective case series, of which only two were comparative studies. The mCMS showed an overall poor methodology (mean score 39.5). While the number of studies and their methodology are still limited, the available evidence suggests safety and overall promising results. A total of 11 cases that underwent rTHA with a pure-phase ceramic presented satisfactory clinical and radiological outcomes at initial short-term follow-up. Further studies at long-term follow-up, involving a larger number of patients, are needed before drawing more definitive conclusions on the potential of TCP for the treatment of patients who undergo rTHA.
Combined LTP Sublingual and Oral Immunotherapy in LTP Syndrome: Efficacy and Safety
Authors: Martin Iglesias Maria Aranzazu Martin , Garcia Rodriguez Rosa Garcia , Palacios Cañas Alberto Palacios , Meneses Sotomayor Jaime Vinicio Meneses , Clar Castello Miriam Clar , Feo Brito Francisco Feo
Published: February 2023

Introduction: SLIT for the treatment of plant food allergies has been demonstrated to be safe but less effective than OIT, but the latter is associated with more adverse reactions. The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a new protocol starting with SLIT-peach followed by OIT with commercial peach juice in patients with LTP syndrome. Methods: This was a prospective, noncontrolled, open study on patients with LTP syndrome who are not sensitized to storage proteins. SLIT peach ALK was followed by OIT with Granini® peach juice after 40 days of the SLIT maintenance phase. At home, the Granini® juice dose was progressively increased during the 42 days until reaching 200 ml. After achieving the maximum dose, an open oral food challenge was carried out with the food that had caused the most severe reaction. If negative, the patient was instructed to progressively introduce the foods that were avoided before starting immunotherapy at home. Patients were reviewed 1 month later. The quality-of-life questionnaire FAQLQ-AF was completed at the beginning of the study and one month after the final challenge. Results: Forty-five patients were included, most of them with LTP anaphylaxis. Peach SLIT was well tolerated in 80.5%, and OIT with Granini® was well tolerated in 85%, with no severe adverse reactions. The final provocation was successful in 39/45 (86.6%). One month after the final provocation, 42/45 (93.3%) patients had no dietary restrictions. FAQLA-AF was significantly reduced. Conclusions: This combination of peach SLIT and OIT with commercial peach juice provides a new, fast, effective, and safe immunotherapy option for selected patients with LTP syndrome who are not allergic to storage proteins, improving their quality of life. This study suggests that cross-desensitization relative to the nsLTPs of several plant foods can be achieved by using Prup3.