bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
GmWAK1, Novel Wall-Associated Protein Kinase, Positively Regulates Response of Soybean to Phytophthora sojae Infection
Authors: Zhao Ming , Li Ninghui , Chen Simei , Wu Junjiang , He Shengfu , Zhao Yuxin , Wang Xiran , Chen Xiaoyu , Zhang Chuanzhong , Fang Xin , Sun Yan , Song Bo , Liu Shanshan , Liu Yaguang , Xu Pengfei , Zhang Shuzhen
Published: January 2023

Phytophthora root rot is a destructive soybean disease worldwide, which is caused by the oomycete pathogen Phytophthora sojae (P. sojae). Wall-associated protein kinase (WAK) genes, a family of the receptor-like protein kinase (RLK) genes, play important roles in the plant signaling pathways that regulate stress responses and pathogen resistance. In our study, we found a putative Glycine max wall-associated protein kinase, GmWAK1, which we identified by soybean GmLHP1 RNA-sequencing. The expression of GmWAK1 was significantly increased by P. sojae and salicylic acid (SA). Overexpression of GmWAK1 in soybean significantly improved resistance to P. sojae, and the levels of phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), SA, and SA-biosynthesis-related genes were markedly higher than in the wild-type (WT) soybean. The activities of enzymatic superoxide dismutase (SOD) and peroxidase (POD) antioxidants in GmWAK1-overexpressing (OE) plants were significantly higher than those in in WT plants treated with P. sojae; reactive oxygen species (ROS) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) accumulation was considerably lower in GmWAK1-OE after P. sojae infection. GmWAK1 interacted with annexin-like protein RJ, GmANNRJ4, which improved resistance to P. sojae and increased intracellular free-calcium accumulation. In GmANNRJ4-OE transgenic soybean, the calmodulin-dependent kinase gene GmMPK6 and several pathogenesis-related (PR) genes were constitutively activated. Collectively, these results indicated that GmWAK1 interacts with GmANNRJ4, and GmWAK1 plays a positive role in soybean resistance to P. sojae via a process that might be dependent on SA and involved in alleviating damage caused by oxidative stress.
Improvement of RNA In Situ Hybridisation for Grapevine Fruits and Ovules
Authors: Yao Jin , Li Xingmei , Wu Na , Zhang Songlin , Gao Min , Wang Xiping
Published: January 2023

The European grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.) is one of the world’s most widely cultivated and economically important fruit crops. Seedless fruits are particularly desired for table grapes, with seedlessness resulting from stenospermocarpy being an important goal for cultivar improvement. The establishment of an RNA in situ hybridisation (ISH) system for grape berries and ovules is, therefore, important for understanding the molecular mechanisms of ovule abortion in stenospermocarpic seedless cultivars. We improved RNA in situ hybridisation procedures for developing berries and ovules by targeting two transcription factor genes, VvHB63 and VvTAU, using two seeded varieties, ‘Red Globe’ and ‘Pinot Noir’, and two seedless cultivars, ‘Flame Seedless’ and ‘Thompson Seedless’. Optimisation focused on the time of proteinase K treatment, probe length, probe concentration, hybridisation temperature and post-hybridisation washing conditions. The objectives were to maximise hybridisation signals and minimise background interference, while still preserving tissue integrity. For the target genes and samples tested, the best results were obtained with a pre-hybridisation proteinase K treatment of 30 min, probe length of 150 bp and concentration of 100 ng/mL, hybridisation temperature of 50 °C, three washes with 0.2× saline sodium citrate (SSC) solution and blocking with 1% blocking reagent for 45 min during the subsequent hybridisation. The improved ISH system was used to study the spatiotemporal expression patterns of genes related to ovule development at a microscopic level.
Sorting Transcriptomics Immune Information from Tumor Molecular Features Allows Prediction of Response to Anti-PD1 Therapy in Patients with Advanced Melanoma
Authors: Trilla-Fuertes Lucía , Gámez-Pozo Angelo , Prado-Vázquez Guillermo , López-Vacas Rocío , Zapater-Moros Andrea , López-Camacho Elena , Lumbreras-Herrera María I. , Soriano Virtudes , Garicano Fernando , Lecumberri Mª José , Rodríguez de la Borbolla María , Majem Margarita , Pérez-Ruiz Elisabeth , González-Cao María , Oramas Juana , Magdaleno Alejandra , Fra Joaquín , Martín-Carnicero Alfonso , Corral Mónica , Puértolas Teresa , Ramos Ricardo , Fresno Vara Juan Ángel , Espinosa Enrique
Published: January 2023

Immunotherapy based on anti-PD1 antibodies has improved the outcome of advanced melanoma. However, prediction of response to immunotherapy remains an unmet need in the field. Tumor PD-L1 expression, mutational burden, gene profiles and microbiome profiles have been proposed as potential markers but are not used in clinical practice. Probabilistic graphical models and classificatory algorithms were used to classify melanoma tumor samples from a TCGA cohort. A cohort of patients with advanced melanoma treated with PD-1 inhibitors was also analyzed. We established that gene expression data can be grouped in two different layers of information: immune and molecular. In the TCGA, the molecular classification provided information on processes such as epidermis development and keratinization, melanogenesis, and extracellular space and membrane. The immune layer classification was able to distinguish between responders and non-responders to immunotherapy in an independent series of patients with advanced melanoma treated with PD-1 inhibitors. We established that the immune information is independent than molecular features of the tumors in melanoma TCGA cohort, and an immune classification of these tumors was established. This immune classification was capable to determine what patients are going to respond to immunotherapy in a new cohort of patients with advanced melanoma treated with PD-1 inhibitors Therefore, this immune signature could be useful to the clinicians to identify those patients who will respond to immunotherapy.
Claudin-3 Loss of Expression Is a Prognostic Marker in Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer
Authors: Orea María J. , Angulo Javier C. , González-Corpas Ana , Echegaray David , Marvá Marcos , Lobo María V. T. , Colás Begoña , Ropero Santiago
Published: January 2023

Castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) development is the foremost concern after treatment of patients with high risk with locally advanced or metastatic prostate cancer. Androgen receptor (AR) is the main driver of CRPC development, through its interaction with epigenetic modifier genes, placing epigenetics modifications in the forefront of CRPC development. Comparing the DNA methylation and expression profile of androgen-sensitive and -refractory prostate cancer cells, we describe the epigenetic silencing of claudin-3 (CLDN3) in AR positive cells resistant to androgen deprivation (LNCaP-abl). CLDN3 silencing was associated with DNA methylation, loss of histone acetylation and H3K27 methylation, and was re-expressed by the combined treatment with the epigenetic modulators Aza and SAHA. From a functional point of view, CLDN3 loss was associated with increased cellular invasion. Immunohistochemical analysis showed decreased CLDN3 expression in samples from CRPC patients. Interestingly, CLDN3 expression was significantly decreased in samples from patients with high total Gleason score (≥8) and locally advanced tumors. Finally, CLDN3 loss of expression was associated with worse disease-free survival and time to clinical progression. In conclusion, our findings strongly indicate that epigenetic silencing of CLDN3 is a common event in CRPC that could be useful as a molecular marker for the prognosis of prostate cancer patients and to discriminate aggressive from indolent prostate tumors.
Four-Dimensional Printing and Shape Memory Materials in Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Zhang Xinwei , Yang Yixin , Yang Zhen , Ma Rui , Aimaijiang Maierhaba , Xu Jing , Zhang Yidi , Zhou Yanmin
Published: January 2023

The repair of severe bone defects is still a formidable clinical challenge, requiring the implantation of bone grafts or bone substitute materials. The development of three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting has received considerable attention in bone tissue engineering over the past decade. However, 3D printing has a limitation. It only takes into account the original form of the printed scaffold, which is inanimate and static, and is not suitable for dynamic organisms. With the emergence of stimuli-responsive materials, four-dimensional (4D) printing has become the next-generation solution for biological tissue engineering. It combines the concept of time with three-dimensional printing. Over time, 4D-printed scaffolds change their appearance or function in response to environmental stimuli (physical, chemical, and biological). In conclusion, 4D printing is the change of the fourth dimension (time) in 3D printing, which provides unprecedented potential for bone tissue repair. In this review, we will discuss the latest research on shape memory materials and 4D printing in bone tissue repair.
LncRNA WDR11-AS1 Promotes Extracellular Matrix Synthesis in Osteoarthritis by Directly Interacting with RNA-Binding Protein PABPC1 to Stabilize SOX9 Expression
Authors: Huang Huang , Yan Jidong , Lan Xi , Guo Yuanxu , Sun Mengyao , Zhao Yitong , Zhang Fujun , Sun Jian , Lu Shemin
Published: January 2023

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative disease of articular cartilage that is mainly characterized by chronic and mild inflammation of the joints. Recently, many studies have reported the crucial roles of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in OA as gene transcriptional regulatory factors, diagnostic biomarkers, or therapeutic targets. However, the exact mechanisms of lncRNAs in the regulation of OA progression remain unclear. In the present study, the lncRNA WDR11 divergent transcript (lncRNA WDR11-AS1) was shown to be downregulated in osteoarthritic cartilage tissues from patients, and to promote extracellular matrix (ECM) synthesis in osteoarthritic chondrocytes with knockdown and overexpression experiments. This function of lncRNA WDR11-AS1 was linked to its ability to interact with the polyadenylate-binding protein cytoplasmic 1 (PABPC1), which was screened by RNA pulldown and mass spectrometry analyses. PABPC1 was discovered to bind ECM-related mRNAs such as SOX9, and the inhibition of PABPC1 improved the mRNA stability of SOX9 to mitigate OA progression. Our results suggest that lncRNA WDR11-AS1 has a promising inhibitory effect on inflammation-induced ECM degradation in OA by directly binding PABPC1, thereby establishing lncRNA WDR11-AS1 and PABPC1 as potential therapeutic targets in the treatment of OA.
Pinostrobin Suppresses the α-Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormone-Induced Melanogenic Signaling Pathway
Authors: Athapaththu Athapaththu Mudiyanselage Gihan Kavinda , Sanjaya Sobarathne Senel , Lee Kyoung Tae , Karunarathne Wisurumuni Arachchilage Hasitha Maduranga , Choi Yung Hyun , Hur Sung-Pyo , Kim Gi-Young
Published: January 2023

Pinostrobin is a dietary flavonoid found in several plants that possesses pharmacological properties, such as anti-cancer, anti-virus, antioxidant, anti-ulcer, and anti-aromatase effects. However, it is unclear if pinostrobin exerts anti-melanogenic properties and, if so, what the underlying molecular mechanisms comprise. Therefore, we, in this study, investigated whether pinostrobin inhibits melanin biosynthesis in vitro and in vivo, as well as the potential associated mechanism. Pinostrobin reduced mushroom tyrosinase activity in vitro in a concentration-dependent manner, with an IC50 of 700 μM. Molecular docking simulations further revealed that pinostrobin forms a hydrogen bond, as well as other non-covalent interactions, between the C-type lectin-like fold and polyphenol oxidase chain, rather than the previously known copper-containing catalytic center. Additionally, pinostrobin significantly decreased α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH)-induced extracellular and intracellular melanin production, as well as tyrosinase activity, in B16F10 melanoma cells. More specifically, pinostrobin inhibited the α-MSH-induced melanin biosynthesis signaling pathway by suppressing the cAMP–CREB–MITF axis. In fact, pinostrobin also attenuated pigmentation in α-MSH-stimulated zebrafish larvae without causing cardiotoxicity. The findings suggest that pinostrobin effectively inhibits melanogenesis in vitro and in vivo via regulation of the cAMP–CREB–MITF axis.
Label-Free Characterization of Macrophage Polarization Using Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Naumann Max , Arend Natalie , Guliev Rustam R. , Kretzer Christian , Rubio Ignacio , Werz Oliver , Neugebauer Ute
Published: January 2023

Macrophages are important cells of the innate immune system that play many different roles in host defense, a fact that is reflected by their polarization into many distinct subtypes. Depending on their function and phenotype, macrophages can be grossly classified into classically activated macrophages (pro-inflammatory M1 cells), alternatively activated macrophages (anti-inflammatory M2 cells), and non-activated cells (resting M0 cells). A fast, label-free and non-destructive characterization of macrophage phenotypes could be of importance for studying the contribution of the various subtypes to numerous pathologies. In this work, single cell Raman spectroscopic imaging was applied to visualize the characteristic phenotype as well as to discriminate between different human macrophage phenotypes without any label and in a non-destructive manner. Macrophages were derived by differentiation of peripheral blood monocytes of human healthy donors and differently treated to yield M0, M1 and M2 phenotypes, as confirmed by marker analysis using flow cytometry and fluorescence imaging. Raman images of chemically fixed cells of those three macrophage phenotypes were processed using chemometric methods of unmixing (N-FINDR) and discrimination (PCA-LDA). The discrimination models were validated using leave-one donor-out cross-validation. The results show that Raman imaging is able to discriminate between pro- and anti-inflammatory macrophage phenotypes with high accuracy in a non-invasive, non-destructive and label-free manner. The spectral differences observed can be explained by the biochemical characteristics of the different phenotypes.
Sonosensitive Phase-Changeable Nanoparticle Mediated Enhanced Chemotherapy in Prostate Cancer by Low-Intensity Focused Ultrasound
Authors: Dai Junyong , Wu Yunfang , Chen Ziqun , Xiao Linkang , Zhang Weili , Cao Yang
Published: January 2023

Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the most common cancer types. Early detection of PC offers the best chance of successful treatment. A noninvasive, image-guided therapy mediated by targeted nanoparticles (NPs) has the potential to improve the efficacy and safety of cancer therapies. Herein, we report a sonosensitive nanoparticle modified with anti-PSMA (prostate-specific membrane antigen) antibodies to activate target prostate tumors. These nanoparticles (PFP@IR780@PTX@liposome NPs) were co-loaded with the chemotherapeutic agent docetaxel and the sonosensitizer IR780, as well as phase-changeable perfluorocarbon (PFC) liquids. The liquid–gas phase change could be induced by low-intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU) in vitro. We found that the PFP@IR780@PTX@liposome NPs can specifically accumulate in prostate tumors after LIFU irradiation, as monitored by ultrasound and photoacoustic imaging. Meanwhile, docetaxel was controllably released from the nanoparticles to achieve enhanced chemotherapeutic therapy in vivo. These sonosensitive phase-changeable NPs can visually treat prostate cancers effectively and have a clinical potential.
Study of Phase Composition in TiFe + 4 wt.% Zr Alloys by Scanning Photoemission Microscopy
Authors: Sartori Sabrina , Amati Matteo , Gregoratti Luca , Jensen Emil , Kudriashova Natalia , Huot Jacques
Published: January 2023

The alloy TiFe is widely used as hydrogen storage material. However, the first hydrogenation is difficult. It was found that the addition of zirconium greatly improves the kinetic of first hydrogenation, but the mechanism is not well understood. In this paper, we report the use of scanning photoemission microscopy to investigate the composition and chemical state of the various phases present in this alloy and how they change upon hydrogenation/dehydrogenation. We found the presence of different oxide phases that were not seen by conventional SEM investigation. The nature of these oxides phases seems to change upon hydrogenation/dehydrogenation cycle. This indicates that oxide phases may play a more significant role in the hydrogen absorption as what was previously believed.
The Neolithic Culture and Paleogeographic Environment Evolution in the Eastern Jianghuai Area
Authors: Xiao Jiayi , Shang Zhiyuan , Xu Jiahao , Jia Xin , Xiao Shengjun
Published: January 2023

According to previous studies, the Lixiahe area in the east of the Jianghuai River was an alternate environment of land and sea in the middle Holocene, and it was not until the late Holocene that the eastern Jianghuai completely became a terrestrial environment. However, recent archaeological studies have found that the extensive Neolithic sites in the Lixiahe area have recorded the rich human activities and cultural connotations of the prehistoric civilization in the Middle Holocene. In this paper, the Gangxi section of Jianhu Lake, Jiangsu Province (GX2) was selected and pollen analysis was fulfilled, then the geomorphic evolution process of the study area from sea to land was investigated according to the palynological assemblages and algae fossils of brackish water, semi-saline water, fresh water and terrestrial in the section strata. During the period of 8500–3800 cal. BP, GX2 was affected by multiple factors such as sea surface fluctuation, ocean flow and sediment deposition carried by seagoing rivers. Since 5800 cal. BP, the area east of the Grand Canal between the Yangtze River and the Huaihe River, and the west of the Yangzhai town, Funing–Longgang town, Yancheng–Dagang town and Yancheng–west of the Dongtai–Hai’an line, have become a terrestrial environment. After the eastern Jianghuai became a land, the Liangzhu culture (5300–4300 cal. BP) in the Taihu Lake basin in the south wing of the Yangtze River delta expanded to the eastern Jianghuai area, and the Longshan culture and Yueshi culture in the Haidai area in the north also migrated south to the eastern Jianghuai area. Admittedly, the main reason in the process of Neolithic cultural development is the internal motivation that the ancient ancestors struggled with nature and pushed forward the continuous development of civilizations. However, our study explains the palaeogeographical origin of Neolithic culture in the eastern and coastal areas of Jianghuai in the middle Holocene, and meanwhile, provides an example for the man–land relationship research on Neolithic culture.
Fatigue Analysis of a 40 ft LNG ISO Tank Container
Authors: Lee Du-Yong , Jo Jae-Sang , Nyongesa Antony John , Lee Won-Ju
Published: January 2023

The demand for Liquefied natural gas (LNG) has rapidly increased over the past few years. This is because of increasingly stringent environmental regulations to curb harmful emissions from fossil fuels. LNG is one of the clean energy sources that has attracted a great deal of research. In the Republic of Korea, the use of LNG has been implemented in various sectors, including public transport buses, domestic applications, power generation, and in huge marine engines. Therefore, a proper, flexible, and safe transport system should be put in place to meet the high demand. In this work, finite element analysis (FEA) was performed on a domestically developed 40 ft ISO LNG tank using Ansys Mechanical software under low- and high-cycle conditions. The results showed that the fatigue damage factor for all the test cases was much lower than 1. The maximum principal stress generated in the 40 ft LNG ISO tank container did not exceed the yield strength of the calculated material (carbon steel). Maximum principal stress of 123.2 MPa and 107.61 MPa was obtained with low-cycle and high-cycle analysis, respectively, which is 50.28% less than the yield strength of carbon steel. The total number of cycles was greater than the total number of design cycles, and the 40 ft LNG ISO tank container was satisfied with a fatigue life of 20 years.
The Influence of Atmospheric Oxygen Content on the Mechanical Properties of Selectively Laser Melted AlSi10Mg TPMS-Based Lattice
Authors: Baroutaji Ahmad , Arjunan Arun , Beal James , Robinson John , Coroado Julio
Published: January 2023

Selective Laser Melting (SLM) is an emerging Additive Manufacturing (AM) technique for the on-demand fabrication of metal parts. The mechanical properties of Selectively Laser Melted (SLMed) parts are sensitive to oxygen concentration within the SLM build chamber due to the formation of oxides, which may lead to various negative consequences. As such, this work explores the influence of SLM atmospheric Oxygen Content (OC) on the macroscopic mechanical properties of SLMed AlSi10Mg bulk material and Triply Periodic Minimal Surface (TPMS) lattices namely primitive, gyroid, and diamond. Standard quasi-static tensile and crushing tests were conducted to evaluate the bulk properties of AlSi10Mg and the compressive metrics of TPMS-lattices. Two oxygen concentrations of 100 ppm and 1000 were used during the SLM fabrication of the experimental specimens. The tensile test data revealed a small influence of the oxygen content on the bulk properties. The low oxygen concentration improved the elongation while slightly reduced the ultimate tensile strength and yield stress. Similarly, the influence of the oxygen content on the compressive responses of TPMS-lattices was generally limited and primarily depended on their geometrical configuration. This study elucidates the role of SLM atmospheric oxygen content on the macroscopic behaviour of SLMed AlSi10Mg parts.
Gas Atomization of Duplex Stainless Steel Powder for Laser Powder Bed Fusion
Authors: Cui Chengsong , Stern Felix , Ellendt Nils , Uhlenwinkel Volker , Steinbacher Matthias , Tenkamp Jochen , Walther Frank , Fechte-Heinen Rainer
Published: January 2023

Duplex stainless steel powders for laser additive manufacturing have not been developed extensively. In this study, the melts of a super duplex stainless steel X2CrNiMoCuWN25-7-4 (AISI F55, 1.4501) were atomized with different process gases (Ar or N2) at different atomization gas temperatures. The process gas N2 in the melting chamber leads to a higher nitrogen dissolution in the steel and a higher nitrogen content of the atomized powders. The argon-atomized powders have more gas porosity inside the particles than the nitrogen-atomized powders. In addition, the higher the atomization gas temperature, the finer the powder particles. The duplex stainless steel powders showed good processability during PBF-LB/M (Laser powder bed fusion). The gas entrapment in the powder particles, regardless of the gas chemistry and the gas content, appears to have a negligible effect on the porosity of the as-built parts.
Obstacle Detection by Autonomous Vehicles: An Adaptive Neighborhood Search Radius Clustering Approach
Authors: Jiang Wuhua , Song Chuanzheng , Wang Hai , Yu Ming , Yan Yajie
Published: January 2023

For autonomous vehicles, obstacle detection results using 3D lidar are in the form of point clouds, and are unevenly distributed in space. Clustering is a common means for point cloud processing; however, improper selection of clustering thresholds can lead to under-segmentation or over-segmentation of point clouds, resulting in false detection or missed detection of obstacles. In order to solve these problems, a new obstacle detection method was required. Firstly, we applied a distance-based filter and a ground segmentation algorithm, to pre-process the original 3D point cloud. Secondly, we proposed an adaptive neighborhood search radius clustering algorithm, based on the analysis of the relationship between the clustering radius and point cloud spatial distribution, adopting the point cloud pitch angle and the horizontal angle resolution of the lidar, to determine the clustering threshold. Finally, an autonomous vehicle platform and the offline autonomous driving KITTI dataset were used to conduct multi-scene comparative experiments between the proposed method and a Euclidean clustering method. The multi-scene real vehicle experimental results showed that our method improved clustering accuracy by 6.94%, and the KITTI dataset experimental results showed that the F1 score increased by 0.0629.
Spatial Computing in Modular Spiking Neural Networks with a Robotic Embodiment
Authors: Lobov Sergey A. , Mikhaylov Alexey N. , Berdnikova Ekaterina S. , Makarov Valeri A. , Kazantsev Victor B.
Published: January 2023

One of the challenges in modern neuroscience is creating a brain-on-a-chip. Such a semiartificial device based on neural networks grown in vitro should interact with the environment when embodied in a robot. A crucial point in this endeavor is developing a neural network architecture capable of associative learning. This work proposes a mathematical model of a midscale modular spiking neural network (SNN) to study learning mechanisms within the brain-on-a-chip context. We show that besides spike-timing-dependent plasticity (STDP), synaptic and neuronal competitions are critical factors for successful learning. Moreover, the shortest pathway rule can implement the synaptic competition responsible for processing conditional stimuli coming from the environment. This solution is ready for testing in neuronal cultures. The neuronal competition can be implemented by lateral inhibition actuating over the SNN modulus responsible for unconditional responses. Empirical testing of this approach is challenging and requires the development of a technique for growing cultures with a given ratio of excitatory and inhibitory neurons. We test the modular SNN embedded in a mobile robot and show that it can establish the association between touch (unconditional) and ultrasonic (conditional) sensors. Then, the robot can avoid obstacles without hitting them, relying on ultrasonic sensors only.
Effects of Preformed Martensite on Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Nanobainite Bearing Steel
Authors: Jia Decheng , Sun Dongyun , Wang Qingchao , Liu Feng , Li Yanguo , Yuan Sujuan , Yang Zhinan , Zhang Fucheng
Published: January 2023

Previous studies have indicated that the preformed martensite has a significant effect on the subsequent bainite transformation of nanobainite bearing steel, but its effects on the microstructure and mechanical properties are still unclear. In this paper, the effects of preformed martensite and its volume fraction on microstructure and mechanical properties of nanobainite bearing steel were investigated by using scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscope, X-ray diffractometer and wear resistance experiments. It was demonstrated that the introduction of preformed martensite can refine bainitic microstructure and increase the volume fraction of retained austenite, but reduces the mechanical stability of retained austenite. When the volume fraction of preformed martensite is less than 20%, the hardness and wear resistance of nanobainite bearing steel gradually increases with the increase in the volume fraction of preformed martensite, but the toughness of steel decreases gradually. When the volume fraction of preformed martensite reaches 25%, the properties of nanobainite bearing steel, especially the wear resistance, obviously deteriorate. The optimized volume fraction of preformed martensite is ~10%–15% by comprehensive comparison the mechanical properties of nanobainite bearing steel.
Alveolar Echinococcosis in a Patient with Presumed Autoimmune Hepatitis and Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis: An Unexpected Finding after Liver Transplantation
Authors: Fronhoffs Florian , Dold Leona , Parčina Marijo , Schneidewind Arne , Willis Maria , Barth Thomas F. E. , Weismüller Tobias J. , Zhou Taotao , Lutz Philipp , Luetkens Julian A. , Gerlach Peter , Manekeller Steffen , Kalff Jörg C. , Vilz Tim O. , Strassburg Christian P. , Kristiansen Glen
Published: January 2023

Primary sclerosing cholangitis is an important reason for liver transplantation. Hepatic alveolar echinococcosis (AE) is caused by Echinococcus multilocularis and presents characteristic calcified conglomerates detected by ultrasound or computed tomography scan of the liver. Symptoms of AE only occur after a long period of infection when cholestasis or cholangitis becomes apparent. Here, we report on a patient with presumed autoimmune hepatitis and primary sclerosing cholangitis. After liver transplantation, alveolar echinococcosis was diagnosed in the liver explant.
Broadband Terahertz Metal-Wire Signal Processors: A Review
Authors: Ghazialsharif Mohammad , Dong Junliang , Abbes Alaeddine , Morandotti Roberto
Published: January 2023

Communication links operating at terahertz frequencies are envisioned to provide a revolutionary enhancement of data transmission. As fundamental building blocks, waveguides play an indispensable role in future terahertz networks, not only transporting data streams with unprecedented data rates, but also serving as a versatile platform for signal processing. Among various terahertz waveguides, metal-wire waveguides have attracted particular attention due to their distinct characteristics, such as structural simplicity, broad operating bandwidths, low transmission losses, and low dispersion, in turn making them promising candidates for signal processing. However, because of the tight confinement of modal energy within the wavelength-scale space, manipulating the propagating terahertz signals in-between the metal-wires is challenging. Here, we report the most recent advances in the realization of signal-processing functionalities within metal-wire waveguides. Based on these state-of-the-art methodologies, broadband signal processors that can function as filters, couplers, temporal integrators, as well as multiplexers, have been obtained. We expect this review to inspire new terahertz metal-wire signal processors with high potential for real-time tunability and reconfigurability.
Propagation of a Lorentz Non-Uniformly Correlated Beam in a Turbulent Ocean
Authors: Wei Dongmei , Wang Ke , Xu Ying , Du Qian , Liu Fangning , Liu Juan , Dong Yiming , Zhang Liying , Yu Jiayi , Cai Yangjian , Zhu Xinlei
Published: January 2023

We study the propagation characteristics (spectral intensity and degree of coherence) of a new type of Lorentz non-uniformly correlated (LNUC) beam based on the extended Huygens–Fresnel principle and the spatial power spectrum of oceanic turbulence. The effects of the oceanic turbulence parameters and initial beam parameters on the evolution propagation characteristics of LNUC beams are studied in detail by numerical simulation. The results indicate that such beams exhibit self-focusing propagation features in both free space and oceanic turbulence. Decreasing the dissipation rate of kinetic energy per unit mass of fluid and the Kolmogorov inner scale, or increasing the relative strength of temperature to salinity undulations and the dissipation rate of mean-square temperature of the turbulent ocean tends to increase the negative effects on the beams. Furthermore, we propose a strategy of increasing the beam width and decreasing the coherence length, to reduce the negative effects of the turbulence.
The Potential of Rhizobacteria to Mitigate Abiotic Stress in Lessertia frutescens
Authors: Hlongwane Mokgadi M. , Mohammed Mustapha , Mokgalaka Ntebogeng S. , Dakora Felix D.
Published: January 2023

Lessertia frutescens is a multipurpose medicinal plant indigenous to South Africa. The curative ability of the medicinal plant is attributed to its rich phytochemical composition, including amino acids, triterpenoids, and flavonoids. A literature review of some of the phytochemical compounds, particularly amino acids, in L. frutescens shows a steady decrease in concentration over the years. The reduction of the phytochemical compounds and diminishing biological activities may be attributed to drought and salt stress, which South Africa has been grappling with over the years. Canavanine, a phytochemical which is associated with the anticancer activity of L. frutescens, reduced slightly when the plant was subjected to salt stress. Like other legumes, L. frutescens forms a symbiotic relationship with plant-growth-promoting rhizobacteria, which facilitate plant growth and development. Studies employing commercial plant-growth-promoting rhizobacteria to enhance growth and biological activities in L. frutescens have been successfully carried out. Furthermore, alleviation of drought and salt stress in medicinal plants through inoculation with plant growth-promoting-rhizobacteria is well documented and effective. Therefore, this review seeks to highlight the potential of plant-growth-promoting rhizobacteria to alleviate the effect of salt and drought in Lessertia frutescens.
Accumulation Conditions and Pattern of Tight Oil in the Lower Submember of the Fourth Member of the Shahejie Formation in the Damintun Sag, Bohai Bay Basin
Authors: Wang Weiming , Liu Qingguo , Jing Wenping , Yan Youguo , Zhang Shuxia , Tian Weichao
Published: January 2023

To determine the accumulation conditions and pattern of tight oil in oil shales in the Damintun Sag, Bohai Bay Basin, this study investigated the basic geological conditions of the source rocks and reservoirs in the sag using methods such as organic carbon analysis, whole-rock XRD analysis, and field emission scanning electron microscopy. The results show that: (1) The high-quality source rocks in the lower submember of the fourth member of the Shahejie Formation (E2S42) in the Damintun Sag have high organic matter abundance, favorable organic matter types, high hydrocarbon expulsion efficiency, and high fluidity. Therefore, they provide sufficient oil sources for tight oil accumulation.; (2) During the burial of organic-rich shales, the thermal degradation of organic matter produces large amounts of organic acids, which can dissolve carbonate minerals. In this way, secondary pores are formed.; (3) The special microscopic pore structure that connects fractures to pores is the key to the enrichment of tight oil is a key factor for the high oil saturation of pores in oil shales; (4) The breakthrough pressure (up to 100 MPa) and specific surface area of dolomitic mudstones in the E2S42 submember are significantly higher than those in other horizons. As a result, the dolomitic mudstones can effectively seal the underlying tight reservoirs; (5) Compared with the tight oil in tight sandstones, the tight oil in the oil shales in the study area has significantly superior geological conditions for reservoir formation, such as the favorable arrangement of hydrocarbon expulsion channels, low filling resistance, and the presence of reservoir spaces.
An Investigation of Signal Preprocessing for Photoacoustic Tomography
Authors: Huen Isaac , Zhang Ruochong , Bi Renzhe , Li Xiuting , Moothanchery Mohesh , Olivo Malini
Published: January 2023

Photoacoustic tomography (PAT) is increasingly being used for high-resolution biological imaging at depth. Signal-to-noise ratios and resolution are the main factors that determine image quality. Various reconstruction algorithms have been proposed and applied to reduce noise and enhance resolution, but the efficacy of signal preprocessing methods which also affect image quality, are seldom discussed. We, therefore, compared common preprocessing techniques, namely bandpass filters, wavelet denoising, empirical mode decomposition, and singular value decomposition. Each was compared with and without accounting for sensor directivity. The denoising performance was evaluated with the contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR), and the resolution was calculated as the full width at half maximum (FWHM) in both the lateral and axial directions. In the phantom experiment, counting in directivity was found to significantly reduce noise, outperforming other methods. Irrespective of directivity, the best performing methods for denoising were bandpass, unfiltered, SVD, wavelet, and EMD, in that order. Only bandpass filtering consistently yielded improvements. Significant improvements in the lateral resolution were observed using directivity in two out of three acquisitions. This study investigated the advantages and disadvantages of different preprocessing methods and may help to determine better practices in PAT reconstruction.
Evaluation of a New Real-Time Dosimeter Sensor for Interventional Radiology Staff
Authors: Hattori Kenshin , Inaba Yohei , Kato Toshiki , Fujisawa Masaki , Yasuno Hikaru , Yamada Ayumi , Haga Yoshihiro , Suzuki Masatoshi , Zuguchi Masayuki , Chida Koichi
Published: January 2023

In 2011, the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) recommended a significant reduction in the lens-equivalent radiation dose limit, thus from an average of 150 to 20 mSv/year over 5 years. In recent years, the occupational dose has been rising with the increased sophistication of interventional radiology (IVR); management of IVR staff radiation doses has become more important, making real-time radiation monitoring of such staff desirable. Recently, the i3 real-time occupational exposure monitoring system (based on RaySafeTM) has replaced the conventional i2 system. Here, we compared the i2 and i3 systems in terms of sensitivity (batch uniformity), tube-voltage dependency, dose linearity, dose-rate dependency, and angle dependency. The sensitivity difference (batch uniformity) was approximately 5%, and the tube-voltage dependency was <±20% between 50 and 110 kV. Dose linearity was good (R2 = 1.00); a slight dose-rate dependency (~20%) was evident at very high dose rates (250 mGy/h). The i3 dosimeter showed better performance for the lower radiation detection limit compared with the i2 system. The horizontal and vertical angle dependencies of i3 were superior to those of i2. Thus, i3 sensitivity was higher over a wider angle range compared with i2, aiding the measurement of scattered radiation. Unlike the i2 sensor, the influence of backscattered radiation (i.e., radiation from an angle of 180°) was negligible. Therefore, the i3 system may be more appropriate in areas affected by backscatter. In the future, i3 will facilitate real-time dosimetry and dose management during IVR and other applications.
VERD: Emergence of Product-Based Video E-Commerce Retrieval Dataset from User’s Perspective
Authors: Lee Gwangjin , Jo Won , Choi Yukyung
Published: January 2023

Customer demands for product search are growing as a result of the recent growth of the e-commerce market. According to this trend, studies on object-centric retrieval using product images have emerged, but it is difficult to respond to complex user-environment scenarios and a search requires a vast amount of data. In this paper, we propose the Video E-commerce Retrieval Dataset (VERD), which utilizes user-perspective videos. In addition, a benchmark and additional experiments are presented to demonstrate the need for independent research on product-centered video-based retrieval. VERD is publicly accessible for academic research and can be downloaded by contacting the author by email.
Paper Spray Tandem Mass Spectrometry for Assessing Oleic, Linoleic and Linolenic Acid Content in Edible Vegetable Oils
Authors: Bartella Lucia , Mazzotti Fabio , Talarico Ines Rosita , Santoro Ilaria , Di Donna Leonardo
Published: January 2023

Oleic, linoleic and linolenic acids exert several beneficial effects on human health, some of which are also certified by recent European and U.S. regulations. The goal of the presented work was to develop an innovative methodology to evaluate their content in edible vegetable oils, in order to increase the value of oils from a nutraceutical perspective. The protocol is based on the use of paper spray ionization coupled with tandem mass spectrometry experiments, which allowed the recording of data very quickly and with high specificity. All investigated compounds gained a good linear relation (r2 higher than 0.98). Accuracy values are near 100% for all concentration levels examined, and the repeatability and reproducibility data result lower than 15%, highlighting the consistence of the methodology. The developed approach was successfully applied for the analysis of different real samples, and its robustness was confirmed by comparing the results obtained with those coming from the classical and official methodology.
Influencia del modelo de gestión en las condiciones laborales de los comerciantes del mercado central de Portoviejo
Authors: Alchundia Macías Denisse Lisbeth , Loor Bravo Lucia Dolores
Published: January 2023

En la actualidad se exige una gestión pública moderna, eficiente y dinámica, el modelo de gestión de Ecuador busca mayor articulación entre los niveles administrativos mediante los Gobiernos Autónomos Descentralizados y las entidades del Ejecutivo, cuya función es controlar la gestión pública para alcanzar las metas del Plan Nacional para el Buen Vivir. se planteó como objetivo: analizar la influencia del modelo de gestión en las condiciones laborales de los comerciantes del Mercado Central de Portoviejo. Se emplearon diferentes métodos y técnicas como: la observación participativa a las instalaciones, análisis documental de todo lo planteado en el modelo de gestión, guion, entrevista a profundidad a dos funcionarios de la Empresa Pública Municipal Administradora de Mercados y Camales de Portoviejo y se realizó un grupo focal con los comerciantes catastrados. Se ha realizado un diagnóstico de la situación actual del Mercado Central No. 1; cuyos objetivos propuestos y análisis estratégicos forman parte de este trabajo, por lo que, a partir del diagnóstico efectuado, se han introducido novedades y análisis.
LAS INTENCIONES PROFESIONALES EN ADOLESCENTES DE LA ZONA 4 DE ECUADOR COMO INDICADOR DE PERTINENCIA DE LAS CARRERAS DE PSICOLOGÍA
Authors: Mayo Parra Israel
Published: January 2023

La ampliación y actualización de la oferta académica en las universidades en Ecuador se sustenta en el principio de la pertinencia. Una variable a considerar en los estudios de pertinencia para la apertura de nuevas carreras lo constituye la intención profesional de los estudiantes de bachillerato. Con el objetivo de describir la contribución de las intenciones profesionales en adolescentes de las provincias de Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas y Manabí (Zona 4) a la evaluación de la pertinencia de la carrera de psicología, se desarrolló en la Facultad de Psicología de la Universidad Laica Eloy Alfaro de Manabí (ULEAM) un estudio transversal descriptivo preliminar en una muestra de 2018 estudiantes de bachillerato, utilizando una encuesta online y un muestro intencional.Los resultados muestran  el elevado porcentaje de estudiantes de los diferentes niveles de bachillerato que prefieren las carreras de psicología y la ULEAM como opción de estudios universitarios. Se concluye que las intenciones profesionales constatadas en la muestra estudiada permiten considerar que hay una demanda sostenible para el ingreso a las carreras de psicología, indicando favorablemente su pertinencia
HUELLA DE CARBONO, UTILIZANDO LA NORMA ISO-14064:1, EN LA MAESTRÍA DE QUÍMICA AMBIENTAL, ANTES Y DURANTE LA PANDEMIA POR COVID-19.
Authors: Palacios Larissa Sacoto , Zambrano Torres Cesar , Rivas Cobo Carlos
Published: January 2023

Las actividades antropogénicas en universidades latinoamericanas y su impacto directo sobre el calentamiento global son un desafío para la gestión medioambiental de los campus universitarios. La cuantificación y medición de indicadores medioambientales como la huella de carbono, permitem establecer políticas y estrategias para mitigar el potencial impacto que esto representa en la sociedad. En este trabajo se propuso calcular las emisiones de dióxido de carbono de los alcances establecidos por la norma ISO 14064 en el programa de maestría en Química Ambiental en comparación con las emisiones de dióxido de carbono emitidas en las viviendas de los estudiantes durante el confinamiento por COVID-19. La estimación se logró realizando un diagnóstico previo de las actividades con mayor relevancia según la norma ISO 14 064:1 de 2018 siendo realizado el análisis tanto  en el aula de clases como en los hogares de los estudiantes. Los resultados mostraron que en general los alcances uno y dos de los hogares fueron de 16,64 % y 9,82 %, y los del aula eran de 0,33 % y 0,02 % respectivamente, relacionándose de manera ascendente por motivos del confinamiento; El alcance tres que representaba la movilización de los estudiantes en el campus universitario fue de un 99,65 %, y durante el confinamiento experimentó una reducción de 26,11 % en la emisión de dióxido de carbono. El estudio determinó un resultado un total de 34,34 Ton CO2 eq. durante las actividades virtuales, y 869,47 Ton CO2, durante las actividades en sala de aula.
Velilerin BİLSEM’e Yönelik Algıları-Kahta Bilsem Örneği
Authors: YERLİ Mahmut Serkan
Published: January 2023

Bu araştırmada Bilim ve Sanat Merkezini yeni kazanan öğrencilerin ailelerinin BİLSEM’le ilgili algılarını metaforlar yoluyla ortaya çıkarmak amaçlanmıştır. Ortaya çıkan sonuçların eğitim düzeyi ve cinsiyet açısından farklılaşıp farklılaşmadığı incelenmiştir. Araştırmanın çalışma grubu 2022-2023 eğitim öğretim yılında Kahta BİLSEM’i yeni kazanan 27 özel yetenekli öğrencinin velileri oluşturmaktadır. Bu araştırmada nitel araştırma yöntemlerinden olgubilim (fenomonoloji) deseni kullanılmıştır. Veriler araştırmacı tarafından oluşturulan görüşme formu kullanılarak toplanmıştır. Veliler BİLSEM’e yönelik 23 adet metafor üretmişlerdir. BİLSEM ile ilgili üretilen metaforlar, Destek Veren-Rehber, Öğretirken Eğlendiren, Keşfedici ve Araştıran temaları altında toplanmıştır. BİLSEM Program Yapısına en uygun tema olarak Destek Veren-Rehber teması görülmüştür. Velilerin BİLSEM ile ilgili ürettikleri metaforlar incelendiğinde; eğitim düzeyi açısından farklılık gösterdiği cinsiyet açısından ise farklılık göstermediği görülmüştür. Ortaya çıkan bulgular doğrultusunda; BİLSEM program yapısının doğru anlaşılması adına velilere yönelik rehberlik faaliyetlerinin yürütülmesi ve yürütülen rehberlik faaliyetlerinde ailelerin eğitim düzeyinin göz önüne alınması önerilerinde bulunulmuştur.
Cultural Records of the Fishing Villagers in The Novel "Semmeen"
Authors: G Vani Jothi
Published: January 2023

The coast of Kerala is dotted with small fishing villages. They are small villages inhabited by simple fishermen who have bonded with the sea in their lives. It is written by Thakazhi Sivasankara Pillai, a village story based on the lifestyle, culture, discipline, and faith of the people of such coastal villages. It was translated by Sundara Ramasamy. George Moore, a scholar, says that the novel is a great tool for the author to bring out the experiences he has discovered in his life. Creations can only be created based on events that one has experienced, seen, heard, and studied. In that sense, the novel is beyond the confines of the page. The novel is related to a story in which the author can freely express any opinion in his way. Based on that, the Semmeen novel is a regional novel based on the life events of a particular section of the people. It is related to the livelihood problems of coastal people. It was at that time when the Tamil translation novel was slowly developing that Sundara Ramasamy translated the Malayalam novel "Semmeen", written by Thakazhi Sivasankara Pillai, into Tamil. Let us look at its cultural records.