bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic/Protein Association of Atopic Dermatitis and Tooth Agenesis
Authors: Ouyang Wanlu , Goh Charlene E. , Ng Wei Bo , Chew Fook Tim , Yap Eric Peng Huat , Hsu Chin-ying Stephen
Published: March 2023

Atopic dermatitis and abnormalities in tooth development (including hypomineralization, hypodontia and microdontia) have been observed to co-occur in some patients. A common pathogenesis pathway that involves genes and protein interactions has been hypothesized. This review aims to first provide a description of the key gene mutations and signaling pathways associated with atopic dermatitis and tooth agenesis (i.e., the absence of teeth due to developmental failure) and identify the possible association between the two diseases. Second, utilizing a list of genes most commonly associated with the two diseases, we conducted a protein–protein network interaction analysis using the STRING database and identified a novel association between the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway (major pathway responsible for TA) and desmosomal proteins (component of skin barrier that affect the pathogenesis of AD). Further investigation into the mechanisms that may drive their co-occurrence and underlie the development of the two diseases is warranted.
Synthesis and Evaluation on the Fungicidal Activity of S-Alkyl Substituted Thioglycolurils
Authors: Vinogradova Ekaterina E. , Alekseenko Anna L. , Popkov Sergey V. , Kolotyrkina Natalya G. , Kravchenko Angelina N. , Gazieva Galina A.
Published: March 2023

A series of S-alkyl substituted thioglycolurils was prepared through the alkylation of corresponding thioglycolurils with halogenoalkanes and tested for their fungicidal activity against six phytopathogenic fungi from different taxonomic classes: Venturia inaequalis, Rhizoctonia solani, Fusarium oxysporum, Fusarium moniliforme, Bipolaris sorokiniana, and Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, and two pathogenic yeasts: Candida albicans and Cryptococcus neoformans var. grubii. A number of S-alkyl substituted thioglycolurils exhibited high activity against Venturia inaequalis and Rhizoctonia solani (85–100% mycelium growth inhibition), and moderate activity against other phytopathogens. S-Ethyl substituted thioglycolurils possessed a high activity against Candida albicans. Additionally, the hemolytic and cytotoxic properties of promising derivatives were determined using human red blood cells and human embryonic kidney cells, respectively. Two S-ethyl derivatives possessed both low cytotoxicity against normal human cells and high fungicidal activity against Candida albicans.
Half-Sandwich Nickelacarboranes Derived from [7-(MeO(CH2)2S)-7,8-C2B9H11]−
Authors: Semyonov Dmitriy K. , Stogniy Marina Yu. , Suponitsky Kyrill Yu. , Sivaev Igor B.
Published: March 2023

New carboranyl thioethers 1-MeO(CH2)nS-1,2-C2B10H11 (n = 2, 3) were prepared by the alkylation of the trimethylammonium salt of 1-mercapto-ortho-carborane with 1-bromo- 2-methoxyethane and 1-bromo-3-methoxypropane, respectively. Their deboronation with cesium fluoride in ethanol gave the corresponding nido-carboranes Cs[7-MeO(CH2)nS-7,8-C2B9H11] (n = 2, 3). The reactions of Cs[7-MeO(CH2)2S-7,8-C2B9H11] with various nickel(II) phosphine complexes [(dppe)NiCl2] and [(R’R2P)2NiCl2] (R = R’ = Ph, Bu; R = Me, R’ = Ph; R = Ph, R’ = Me, Et) were studied and a series of nickelacarboranes 3,3-dppe-1-MeO(CH2)2S-closo-3,1,2-NiC2B9H10 and 3,3- (R’R2P)2-1-MeO(CH2)2S-closo-3,1,2-NiC2B9H10 (R = R’ = Bu; R = Me, R’ = Ph; R = Ph, R’ = Me, Et) was prepared. The molecular crystal structure of 3,3-dppe-1-MeO(CH2)2S-closo-3,1,2-NiC2B9H10 was determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction.
The Complete Mitochondrial Genome of the Chinese White Wax Scale Insect, Ericerus pela Chavannes (Hemiptera: Coccidae), with Novel Gene Arrangement and Truncated tRNA Genes
Authors: An Jia-Qi , Yu Shu-Hui , Wei Shu-Jun , Zhang Hong-Ping , Shi Yuan-Chong , Zhao Qiu-Yu , Fu Zuo-Yi , Yang Pu
Published: March 2023

The Chinese white wax scale insect, Ericerus pela Chavannes (Hemiptera: Coccidae), is one of the scale insects with great economic value and has been dispersed and reared in China for over one thousand years. Its mitochondrial genome provides essential information for the molecular identification and genetic study of this species. We assembled the complete mitochondrial genome of E. pela based on PacBio sequencing and analyzed its genomic features. The genome was 17,766 bp in length with 13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNAs, and two rRNA genes. The analysis results showed E. pela had significant gene rearrangements involving tRNAs compared with other Coccoidea species. Furthermore, E. pela’s nine tRNAs were identified to have obvious truncated structures. The phylogenetic tree compiled of the species showed a long branch of the Coccoidea lineage, which indicated the high evolutionary rate in this group. Our study revealed the mitochondrial characteristics of E. pela and enriched the mitochondrial genetic information on Coccoidea species. It also determined the occurrence of gene rearrangement for the species in this superfamily.
Influence of Soft Stabilization Splint on Electromyographic Patterns in Masticatory and Neck Muscles in Healthy Women
Authors: Zieliński Grzegorz , Wójcicki Marcin , Baszczowski Michał , Żyśko Agata , Litko-Rola Monika , Szkutnik Jacek , Różyło-Kalinowska Ingrid , Ginszt Michał
Published: March 2023

This study investigates the influence of soft stabilization splints on electromyographic patterns in masticatory and neck muscles in healthy women. A total of 70 healthy women were qualified for the research. The resting and clenching electromyographic patterns of the temporalis (TA), masseter (MM), digastric (DA), and sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscles were measured using the BioEMG III™ apparatus. The interaction between splint application and resting muscle activity affected the results in all examined muscles except the temporalis muscle. A large effect size was observed in masseter (2.19 µV vs. 5.18 µV; p = 0.00; ES = 1.00) and digastric (1.89 µV vs. 3.17 µV; p = 0.00; ES = 1.00) both-sided RMS activity. Significant differences between the two conditions were observed in all Functional Clenching Indices (FCI) for MM, SDM, and DA muscles. All FCI values for the MM and DA muscles were significantly lower with than without the splint. We observed an increase in all activity indices due to splint application, which suggests a masseter muscle advantage during measurement. The soft stabilization splint influenced resting and functional activity in the MM, SDM, and DA muscles. During tooth clenching, a soft stabilization splint changed the involvement proportions of the temporalis and masseter muscles, transferring the main activity to the masseter muscles. Using a soft stabilization splint did not affect the symmetry of the electromyographic activity of the masticatory and neck muscles.
Infrared Thermography in Symptomatic Knee Osteoarthritis: Joint Temperature Differs Based on Patient and Pain Characteristics
Authors: De Marziani Luca , Boffa Angelo , Angelelli Lucia , Andriolo Luca , Di Martino Alessandro , Zaffagnini Stefano , Filardo Giuseppe
Published: March 2023

The aim of this study was to evaluate osteoarthritis (OA) patients with infrared thermography to investigate imaging patterns as well as demographic and clinical characteristics that influence knee inflammation. Forty patients with one-sided symptomatic knee OA were included and evaluated through knee-specific PROMs and the PainDETECT Questionnaire for neuropathic pain evaluation. Thermograms were captured using a thermographic camera FLIR-T1020 and temperatures were extracted using the software ResearchIR for the overall knee and the five ROIs: medial, lateral, medial patella, lateral patella, and suprapatellar. The mean temperature of the total knee was 31.9 ± 1.6 °C. It negatively correlated with age (rho = −0.380, p = 0.016) and positively correlated with BMI (rho = 0.421, p = 0.007) and the IKDC objective score (tau = 0.294, p = 0.016). Men had higher temperatures in the knee medial, lateral, and suprapatellar areas (p = 0.017, p = 0.019, p = 0.025, respectively). Patients with neuropathic pain had a lower temperature of the medial knee area (31.5 ± 1.0 vs. 32.3 ± 1.1, p = 0.042), with the total knee negatively correlating with PainDETECT (p = 0.045). This study demonstrated that the skin temperature of OA symptomatic knees is influenced by demographic and clinical characteristics of patients, with higher joint temperatures in younger male patients with higher BMI and worst objective knee scores and lower temperatures in patients affected by neuropathic pain.
Mobile Applications for Resting Tremor Assessment in Parkinson’s Disease: A Systematic Review
Authors: Moreta-de-Esteban Paloma , Martín-Casas Patricia , Ortiz-Gutiérrez Rosa María , Straudi Sofía , Cano-de-la-Cuerda Roberto
Published: March 2023

(1) Background: Resting tremor is a motor manifestation present in most Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients. For its assessment, several scales have been created, but mobile applications could help in objectively assessing resting tremor in PD patients in person and/or remotely in a more ecological scenario. (2) Methods: a systematic review following the PRISMA recommendations was conducted in scientific databases (PubMed, Medline, Science Direct, Academic Search Premier, and Web of Science) and in the main mobile application markets (Google Play, iOS App Store, and Windows Store) to determine the applications available for the assessment of resting tremor in patients with PD using only the measurement components of the phone itself (accelerometers and gyroscopes). (3) Results: 14 articles that used mobile apps to assess resting tremor in PD were included, and 13 apps were identified in the mobile application markets for the same purpose. The risk of bias and of applicability concerns of the articles analyzed was low. Mobile applications found in the app markets met an average of 85.09% of the recommendations for the development of medical mobile applications. (4) Conclusions: the use of mobile applications for the evaluation of resting tremor in PD patients has great potential, but validation studies for this purpose are scarce.
Innovation in Digital Health Interventions for Frailty and Sarcopenia
Authors: Kato Yuki , Sakamoto Ryota , Hori Asuka , Momosaki Ryo
Published: March 2023

Today, the challenges of an aging society are primarily seen in frailty, sarcopenia, and impaired functionality [...]
Effect of Different Sealers on the Cytocompatibility and Osteogenic Potential of Human Periodontal Ligament Stem Cells: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Saber Shehabeldin , Raafat Shereen , Elashiry Mohamed , El-Banna Ahmed , Schäfer Edgar
Published: March 2023

Background: There is tendency for unavoidable sealer extrusion in some clinical cases. This might adversely affect host stem cells and affect healing. This study aimed to investigate the effect of different sealers on the cytocompatibility and osteogenic potential of human periodontal ligament stem cells (hPDLSCs). Methods: The cytotoxic effect of the extracted elutes of VDW.1Seal (VDW.1), Endosequence BC Sealer HiFlow (ES), GuttaFlow-2 (GF), and ADSeal (AD-S) on the hPDLSCs was determined using the MTT assay. Cell proliferation and migration were assessed by the scratch wound healing assay. Osteogenic differentiation potential was assessed. Measurement of pH values and calcium ions release was performed. Results: GF had a significantly higher percentage of viable cells. The cell migration assay showed that GF demonstrated the lowest open wound area percentage. GF and AD-S showed the highest calcium nodule deposition. GF demonstrated higher ALP activity than ES. Expression of RUNX2 and OC genes was similar for all sealers, while OPG gene expression was significantly higher for VDW.1 and GF. ES and AD-S displayed the highest pH values on day 1. Calcium ion release of ES and VDW.1 was significantly the highest. Conclusions: GuttaFlow-2 and VDW.1Seal sealers have favorable behavior toward host stem cells.
Circulating ANGPTL8 as a Potential Protector of Metabolic Complications in Patients with Psoriasis
Authors: Baran Anna , Krahel Julita Anna , Nowowiejska Julia , Kaminski Tomasz W. , Maciaszek Magdalena , Flisiak Iwona
Published: March 2023

Angiopoietin-like protein 8 (ANGPTL8) exerts pleiotropic effects, taking part in lipid and carbohydrate metabolism, inflammation, hematopoiesis and oncogenesis. So far, the exact molecular targets of ANGPTL8 remain poorly defined. We aimed to evaluate the serum concentration of ANGPTL8 in individuals with psoriasis and examine how systemic therapy affects the concentration of ANGPTL8. The study enrolled 35 patients with plaque-type psoriasis that were followed for 3 months of treatment with methotrexate or acitretin, and 18 healthy volunteers without psoriasis as controls. Serum ANGPTL8 concentrations were analyzed by ELISA and differences between groups were determined using Student’s t-test or the Mann–Whitney test, while correlations were assessed using Spearman’s rank test. The average concentration of ANGPTL8 differed significantly between the psoriasis group (before and after therapy) and the control group (p < 0.05). Significant negative correlations between ANGPTL8 and total cholesterol and LDL levels were noted (both p < 0.05). A significant increase in ANGPTL8 concentration was observed after acitretin (p < 0.05), whereas in patients treated with methotrexate the ANGPTL8 did not change significantly (p > 0.05). Additionally, a negative, statistically significant correlation with PASI was found after treatment (p < 0.05). Based on our study, it appears that elevated levels of ANGPTL8 may reduce the likelihood of atherogenic dyslipidemia in individuals with psoriasis, and treatment for psoriasis may impact the protective effects of ANGPTL8.
COMMD10 Is Essential for Neural Plate Development during Embryogenesis
Authors: Phan Khanh P. , Pelargos Panayiotis , Tsytsykova Alla V. , Tsitsikov Erdyni N. , Wiley Graham , Li Chuang , Bebak Melissa , Dunn Ian F.
Published: March 2023

The COMMD (copper metabolism MURR1 domain containing) family includes ten structurally conserved proteins (COMMD1 to COMMD10) in eukaryotic multicellular organisms that are involved in a diverse array of cellular and physiological processes, including endosomal trafficking, copper homeostasis, and cholesterol metabolism, among others. To understand the role of COMMD10 in embryonic development, we used Commd10Tg(Vav1-icre)A2Kio/J mice, where the Vav1-cre transgene is integrated into an intron of the Commd10 gene, creating a functional knockout of Commd10 in homozygous mice. Breeding heterozygous mice produced no COMMD10-deficient (Commd10Null) offspring, suggesting that COMMD10 is required for embryogenesis. Analysis of Commd10Null embryos demonstrated that they displayed stalled development by embryonic day 8.5 (E8.5). Transcriptome analysis revealed that numerous neural crest-specific gene markers had lower expression in mutant versus wild-type (WT) embryos. Specifically, Commd10Null embryos displayed significantly lower expression levels of a number of transcription factors, including a major regulator of the neural crest, Sox10. Moreover, several cytokines/growth factors involved in early embryonic neurogenesis were also lower in mutant embryos. On the other hand, Commd10Null embryos demonstrated higher expression of genes involved in tissue remodeling and regression processes. Taken together, our findings show that Commd10Null embryos die by day E8.5 due to COMMD10-dependent neural crest failure, revealing a new and critical role for COMMD10 in neural development.
Biodegradable Materials for Tissue Engineering: Development, Classification and Current Applications
Authors: Modrák Marcel , Trebuňová Marianna , Balogová Alena Findrik , Hudák Radovan , Živčák Jozef
Published: March 2023

The goal of this review is to map the current state of biodegradable materials that are used in tissue engineering for a variety of applications. At the beginning, the paper briefly identifies typical clinical indications in orthopedics for the use of biodegradable implants. Subsequently, the most frequent groups of biodegradable materials are identified, classified, and analyzed. To this end, a bibliometric analysis was applied to evaluate the evolution of the scientific literature in selected topics of the subject. The special focus of this study is on polymeric biodegradable materials that have been widely used for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Moreover, to outline current research trends and future research directions in this area, selected smart biodegradable materials are characterized, categorized, and discussed. Finally, pertinent conclusions regarding the applicability of biodegradable materials are drawn and recommendations for future research are suggested to drive this line of research forward.
Generalization of Skill for a Working Memory Recognition Procedure in Children: The Benefit of Starting with Easy Materials
Authors: Bao Chenye , Cowan Nelson
Published: March 2023

When children practice a new task, they need to learn both the task procedure and the materials tested. It is often unclear if improvements with practice reflect learning of the task procedure or familiarity with the materials. We sought to examine learning of the task procedure by switching from one set of materials to another in a working memory recognition task. We recruited 70 children (34 female, M = 11.27 years, SD = 0.62, ranging from 10.08 to 12.39) in the United States who were to remember sequences of orientations and of shapes for recognition immediately following the list. Half of the children began with orientation, an easier task, and the other half began with difficult-to-name shapes, a harder task. When children began with the easier task, the acquisition of the recognition task skill in the easy condition transferred to the more difficult task, optimizing the mean performance across tasks. Transfer was less potent when children began with the more difficult task. The results showed that sufficient practice is crucial to avoid poor initial performance, which might be important for the student’s rate of progress and task engagement.
Effect of Wave Phases and Heights on Supercavitation Flow Field and Dynamic Characteristics of Successively Fired High-Speed Projectiles
Authors: Zhang Lite , Wang Zhuokai , Jia Huixia
Published: March 2023

The study of the water entry of successively fired projectiles under a wave environment is of great significance for the development and application of supercavitation weapons. In this paper, the supercavitating flow field of two successively fired projectiles entering water under different wave conditions is numerically simulated by the volume of the fraction model considering the cavitation of water. The motion of projectiles is handled by the overlapping grid technology and the simulated projectiles have six degrees of freedom. The effects of different wave phases and wave heights on the supercavitating flow field and the dynamic loads of the projectiles are studied. The research results show that the wave phase has an effect on the evolution and size of the supercavitation and the effect of the wave phase on the water splash above the free surface is more obvious. The peak of the drag force of the first projectile under conditions of different wave phases with 0.12 m wave height can be reduced by about 50% compared with that under the no-wave condition. The wave phases have an effect on the peak of the drag coefficient, and for the first projectile the peak under the condition of the 180° phase is about 40% lower than that of the 0° phase. The peak of the drag coefficient of the first projectile decreases with the increase in wave height. When the wave height increases from 0.0 m to 0.05 m, the peak value decreases by about 45%. For all conditions, regardless of wave phases or wave heights, the peak of the drag coefficient of the second projectile is obviously much lower than that of the first projectile. Accordingly, the decrease in the velocity of the second projectile is far slower than that of the first one. Negative values of the drag coefficient on the second projectile are observed when the second projectile enters the cavity of the first one.
Data/Knowledge-Driven Behaviour Analysis for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships
Authors: Wen Yuanqiao , Hahn Axel , Valdez Banda Osiris , Huang Yamin
Published: March 2023

This Special Issue, “Data-/Knowledge-Driven Behavior Analysis of Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships”, includes twelve contributions [...]
α-Pheromone Precursor Protein Foc4-PP1 Is Essential for the Full Virulence of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense Tropical Race 4
Authors: Liu Lu , Huang Yinghua , Song Handa , Luo Mei , Dong Zhangyong
Published: March 2023

Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense (Foc), which causes Fusarium wilt of bananas, is considered one of the most destructive fungal pathogens of banana crops worldwide. During infection, Foc secretes many different proteins which promote its colonization of plant tissues. Although F. oxysporum has no sexual cycle, it has been reported to secrete an α-pheromone, which acts as a growth regulator, chemoattractant, and quorum-sensing signaling molecule; and to encode a putative protein with the hallmarks of fungal α-pheromone precursors. In this study, we identified an ortholog of the α-pheromone precursor gene, Foc4-PP1, in Foc tropical race 4 (TR4), and showed that it was necessary for the growth and virulence of Foc TR4. Foc4-PP1 deletion from the Foc TR4 genome resulted in decreased fungal growth, increased sensitivity to oxidative stress and cell-wall-damaging agents, and attenuation of pathogen virulence towards banana plantlets. Subcellular localization analysis revealed that Foc4-PP1 was concentrated in the nuclei and cytoplasm of Nicotiana benthamiana cells, where it could suppress BAX-induced programmed cell death. In conclusion, these findings suggest that Foc4-PP1 contributes to Foc TR4 virulence by promoting hyphal growth and abiotic stress resistance and inhibiting the immune defense responses of host plants.
Exploring Associations between Subjective Well-Being and Non-Market Values When Used in the Evaluation of Urban Green Spaces: A Scoping Review
Authors: Papastergiou Elli , Latinopoulos Dionysis , Evdou Myrto , Kalogeresis Athanasios
Published: March 2023

Proximity and access to urban green spaces (UGSs) provide city dwellers with multiple benefits related to health and well-being. Understanding what (and how) characteristics of these spaces affect individuals’ perceived preferences and sense of well-being (subjective well-being) could be critical for relevant future planning interventions, policy design, and investments in green spaces. This scoping review aims to summarize, synthesize, and compare previous research findings about the application of (stated) preference-based methods, using non-market valuation techniques (e.g., willingness-to-pay methods), and non-preference-based measures of well-being (e.g., subjective well-being) to evaluate UGSs. By comparing these two methodologies, we aim to explore the differences and similarities among the determinants of benefits associated with UGS design and planning. We also seek to identify the most commonly used research approaches for measuring and/or projecting the impact of (new or rejuvenated) UGSs on people’s welfare and well-being. The review focuses on peer-reviewed empirical scientific work published during the period from 2010 to 2022.
Degree of Actinic Elastosis Is a Surrogate of Exposure to Chronic Ultraviolet Radiation and Correlates More Strongly with Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma than Basal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Drexler Konstantin , Drexler Hans , Karrer Sigrid , Landthaler Michael , Haferkamp Sebastian , Zeman Florian , Berneburg Mark , Niebel Dennis
Published: March 2023

(1) Background: Keratinocyte cancer (KC) is associated with exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. However, data are controversial as to whether chronic UV exposure or high intermittent UV exposure are key drivers of carcinogenesis in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) and basal cell carcinoma (BCC). Prolonged sun exposure of the skin causes photo-aging, which is associated with actinic elastosis, a condition characterized by the degeneration of elastin in the upper dermis, which is assessable via conventional histology. In this study, we aimed to compare the degree of actinic elastosis in different types of KC with regard to various patient characteristics. (2) Methods: We defined a semiquantitative score for the degree of actinic elastosis ranging from 0 = none to 3 = total loss of elastic fibers (basophilic degeneration). The extent was measured histometrically by two independent dermatohistopathologists in the immediate vicinity of 353 KC. The scores were merged and matched with tumor types (cSCC and BCC with subtypes), and clinical variables such as body site, sex and age. (3) Results: As expected, the degree of actinic elastosis correlated with age. However, it was significantly higher in cSCC compared to BCC irrespective of age, sex, body site and tumor subtypes. (4): Conclusions: Lifetime sun exposure may be estimated via routine histology using this scoring technique for actinic elastosis as a surrogate marker. cSCCs are more strongly associated with chronic UV exposure than BCCs, even in sun-exposed localizations such as the face.
The Urinary Microbiome and Bladder Cancer
Authors: Heidar Nassib Abou , Bhat Tariq A. , Shabir Usma , Hussein Ahmed A.
Published: March 2023

Bladder cancer is the 10th most common cancer worldwide. Approximately 75% of patients with bladder cancer will present with non-muscle invasive disease. Patients are usually treated with transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT), in addition to adjuvant intravesical therapy (chemotherapy or anti-cancer immunotherapy with Bacillus Calmette Guerin- BCG) for those at intermediate-risk and high-risk of recurrence and progression. For many years, urine has been thought to be “sterile”; however, advanced microbiological and molecular techniques, including 16S ribosomal RNA (16S rRNA) sequencing, have negated that previous paradigm and confirmed the presence of a urinary microbiome. The urinary microbiome has been associated with several urological diseases, including interstitial cystitis, urgency urinary incontinence, neurogenic bladder dysfunction, and others. More recently, many reports are emerging about the role of the urinary microbiome in urothelial carcinogenesis, including gender disparity in bladder cancer and responses to treatments. The urinary microbiome may serve as a biomarker that can help with risk stratification as well as prediction of the response to intravesical therapies. However, the microbiome literature has been hampered by the lack of a unified standardized methodology for sample collection, type, preservation, processing, as well as bioinformatics analysis. Herein we describe and critique the literature on the association between urinary microbiome and bladder cancer and highlight some of the future directions.
Anelastic Effects in Fe–Ga and Fe–Ga-Based Alloys: A Review
Authors: Golovin Igor S.
Published: March 2023

Fe–Ga alloys (GalFeNOLs) are the focus of attention due to their enhanced magneto-elastic properties, namely, magnetostriction in low saturation magnetic fields. In the last several years, special attention has been paid to the anelastic properties of these alloys. In this review, we collected and analyzed the frequency-, amplitude-, and temperature-dependent anelasticity in Fe–Ga and Fe–Ga-based alloys in the Hertz range of forced and free-decay vibrations. Special attention is paid to anelasticity caused by phase transitions: for this purpose, in situ neutron diffraction tests with the same heating or cooling rates were carried out in parallel with temperature dependencies measurements to control ctructure and phase transitions. The main part of this review is devoted to anelastic effects in binary Fe–Ga alloys, but we also consider ternary alloys of the systems Fe–Ga–Al and Fe–Ga–RE (RE—Rare Earth elements) to discuss similarities and differences between anelastic properties in Fe–Ga and Fe–Al alloys and effect of RE elements. We report and discuss several thermally activated effects, including Zener- and Snoek-type relaxation, several transient anelastic phenomena caused by phase transitions (D03 ↔ A2, D03 → L12, L12 ↔ D019, D019 ↔ B2, Fe13Ga9 → L12+Fe6Ga5 phases), and their influence on the above-mentioned thermally activated effects. We also report amplitude-dependent damping caused by dislocations and magnetic domain walls and try to understand the paradox between the Smith–Birchak model predicting higher damping capacity for materials with higher saturation magnetostriction and existing experimental results. The main attention in this review is paid to alloys with 17–20 and 25–30%Ga as the alloys with the best functional (magnetostriction) properties. Nevertheless, we provide information on a broader range of alloys from 6 to 45%Ga. Due to the limited space, we do not discuss other mechanical and physical properties in depth but focus on anelasticity. A short introduction to the theory of anelasticity precedes the main part of this review of anelastic effects in Fe–Ga and related alloys and unsolved issues are collected in summary.
Experimental Study on Mechanical and Damage Evolution Characteristics of Coal during True Triaxial Cyclic Loading and Unloading
Authors: Jiang Chongyang , Wang Lianguo , Ding Ke , Wang Shuai , Ren Bo , Guo Jiaxing
Published: March 2023

Research on the mechanical properties and damage evolution of coal during true triaxial cyclic loading and unloading is of great significance for maintaining the long-term safety and stability of underground engineering structures in coal mines. In this paper, firstly, the deformation, strength and fracturing characteristics of coal during true triaxial loading and true triaxial cyclic loading and unloading were analyzed. Then, the residual strain characteristics, energy distribution and evolution of coal were systematically studied. Additionally, the damage evolution laws of coal during cyclic loading and unloading were quantitatively analyzed from the perspectives of residual strain and energy dissipation, respectively. The damage evolution law based on residual strain showed that when the intermediate principal stress was high, the damage to coal was directional. With the increase in cyclic load, the coal damage variables in the directions of σ1 and σ3 increased exponentially, while that in the direction of σ2 increased quadratically. The damage evolution law based on energy dissipation showed that the coal damage variable increased exponentially with the increase in cyclic load. With the increase in σ2, the increasing speed of coal damage variable decreased first and then increased. The damage variables established based on residual strain and energy dissipation can both reveal the damage deterioration mechanism of coal during true triaxial cyclic loading and unloading, which is of great theoretical and engineering significance for scientifically evaluating the stability of underground coal and rock engineering and preventing the occurrence of major geological disasters.
Effect of Cu Alloying on Mechanical Properties of Medium-C Steel after Long-Time Tempering at 500 °C
Authors: Salvetr Pavel , Gokhman Aleksandr , Svoboda Milan , Donik Črtomir , Podstranská Ivana , Kotous Jakub , Nový Zbyšek
Published: March 2023

This research studies the influence of the copper alloying of medium-carbon steel on mechanical properties after quenching and tempering at 500 °C. The microstructure was characterised using SEM, EBSD, TEM, and XRD analysis. The mechanical properties were comprehensively investigated using hardness measurements, tensile and Charpy impact tests and solid solution, grain boundary, dislocation, and precipitation strengthening contributions were estimated. Higher yield strength for Cu-alloyed steel was confirmed at about 35–73 MPa. The precipitation strengthening contribution from Cu precipitates in the range of 11–49 MPa was calculated. The interaction between Cu precipitates and dislocations retards the decrease in dislocation density. Similar values of effective grain size of martensite crystals were measured for Cu-alloyed and Cu-free steel as well. Copper alloyed steel exhibited significantly deteriorated impact toughness, total plastic elongation, and reduction of area. The size of Cu precipitates ranged from 8.3 nm after tempering at 500 °C for 6 h to 13.9 nm after tempering for 48 h.
Impact of Marine Atmospheric Corrosion on the Microstructure and Tensile Properties of 7075 High-Strength Aluminum Alloy
Authors: Xiang Lin , Tao Jianquan , Xia Xiangsheng , Zhao Zude , Chen Qiang , Su Yan , Chai Shuxin , Zheng Zhongyan , Sun Jipeng
Published: March 2023

This study aimed to investigate the impact of corrosion on the microstructure and tensile properties of 7075 high-strength alloy. It involved outdoor exposure tests in an actual marine atmospheric environment in Wanning, Hainan Province. The results showed that the 7075 alloy was corroded rapidly in the marine atmospheric environment, and corrosion pits and intergranular cracks were generated. The intergranular cracks were extended along the grain boundary during corrosion, leading to the exfoliation of the matrix. The cause for the intergranular corrosion was discussed based on the microstructure characteristics of 7075 alloy. The tensile properties of the 7075 alloy gradually deteriorated with the increase of exposure time in the marine atmospheric environment. The ultimate strength and elongation were decreased by about 3.2% and 58.3%, respectively, after 12 months of outdoor exposure.
Explainable Machine Learning Approach for Hepatitis C Diagnosis Using SFS Feature Selection
Authors: Ali Ali Mohd , Hassan Mohammad R. , Aburub Faisal , Alauthman Mohammad , Aldweesh Amjad , Al-Qerem Ahmad , Jebreen Issam , Nabot Ahmad
Published: March 2023

Hepatitis C is a significant public health concern, resulting in substantial morbidity and mortality worldwide. Early diagnosis and effective treatment are essential to prevent the disease’s progression to chronic liver disease. Machine learning algorithms have been increasingly used to develop predictive models for various diseases, including hepatitis C. This study aims to evaluate the performance of several machine learning algorithms in diagnosing chronic liver disease, with a specific focus on hepatitis C, to improve the cost-effectiveness and efficiency of the diagnostic process. We collected a comprehensive dataset of 1801 patient records, each with 12 distinct features, from Jordan University Hospital. To assess the robustness and dependability of our proposed framework, we conducted two research scenarios, one with feature selection and one without. We also employed the Sequential Forward Selection (SFS) method to identify the most relevant features that can enhance the model’s accuracy. Moreover, we investigated the effect of the synthetic minority oversampling technique (SMOTE) on the accuracy of the model’s predictions. Our findings indicate that all machine learning models achieved an average accuracy of 83% when applied to the dataset. Furthermore, the use of SMOTE did not significantly affect the accuracy of the model’s predictions. Despite the increasing use of machine learning models in medical diagnosis, there is a growing concern about their interpretability. As such, we addressed this issue by utilizing the Shapley Additive Explanations (SHAP) method to explain the predictions of our machine learning model, which was specifically developed for hepatitis C prediction in Jordan. This work provides a comprehensive evaluation of various machine learning algorithms in diagnosing chronic liver disease, with a particular emphasis on hepatitis C. The results provide valuable insights into the cost-effectiveness and efficiency of the diagnostic process and highlight the importance of interpretability in medical diagnosis.
Dissolution of Lysozyme Amyloid Fibrils Using Magnetic Nanoparticles in an Alternating Magnetic Field: Design of an Effective Treatment for Cutaneous Amyloidosis
Authors: Andrýsková Natália , Vrbovská Hana , Babincová Melánia , Babinec Peter , Šimaljaková Mária
Published: March 2023

The purpose of this study was to apply functionalized magnetic nanoparticles for the treatment of amyloidosis, a disease characterized by the accumulation of aberrant protein forms with an insoluble amyloid structure. The dissolution and clearance of these extremely stable fibrils from lesions is very complicated. For this purpose, we examined the possibility of using magnetic nanoparticles that generate heat in an external alternating magnetic field with a frequency of 3.5 MHz. As a convenient model system, we used lysozyme fibrils. For the quantification of fibrillar status, we used Thioflavin T and Congo red, specific dyes which change their spectroscopic properties upon binding with the cross-beta structure of fibrils. We found that by using fluorescence, and polarization microscopy, as well as absorption spectrophotometry, the amyloid-like fibrils can be almost completely dissolved. The obtained results suggest that the application of magnetic nanoparticles could be a possible therapeutic intervention in cutaneous amyloidosis.
On the Practicality of the Analytical Solutions for all Third- and Fourth-Degree Algebraic Equations with Real Coefficients
Authors: Chávez-Pichardo Mauricio , Martínez-Cruz Miguel A. , Trejo-Martínez Alfredo , Vega-Cruz Ana Beatriz , Arenas-Resendiz Tanya
Published: March 2023

In order to propose a deeper analysis of the general quartic equation with real coefficients, the analytical solutions for all cubic and quartic equations were reviewed here; then, it was found that there can only be one form of the resolvent cubic that satisfies the following two conditions at the same time: (1) Its discriminant is identical to the discriminant of the general quartic equation. (2) It has at least one positive real root whenever the general quartic equation is non-biquadratic. This unique special form of the resolvent cubic is defined here as the “Standard Form of the Resolvent Cubic”, which becomes relevant since it allows us to reveal the relationship between the nature of the roots of the general quartic equation and the nature of the roots of all the forms of the resolvent cubic. Finally, this new analysis is the basis for designing and programming efficient algorithms that analytically solve all algebraic equations of the fourth and lower degree with real coefficients, always avoiding the application of complex arithmetic operations, even when these equations have non-real complex roots.
A New Quantile-Based Approach for LASSO Estimation
Authors: Shah Ismail , Naz Hina , Ali Sajid , Almohaimeed Amani , Lone Showkat Ahmad
Published: March 2023

Regularization regression techniques are widely used to overcome a model’s parameter estimation problem in the presence of multicollinearity. Several biased techniques are available in the literature, including ridge, Least Angle Shrinkage Selection Operator (LASSO), and elastic net. In this work, we study the performance of the classical LASSO, adaptive LASSO, and ordinary least squares (OLS) methods in high-multicollinearity scenarios and propose some new estimators for estimating the LASSO parameter “k”. The performance of the proposed estimators is evaluated using extensive Monte Carlo simulations and real-life examples. Based on the mean square error criterion, the results suggest that the proposed estimators outperformed the existing estimators.
Numerical Analysis of a Swelling Poro-Thermoelastic Problem with Second Sound
Authors: Bazarra Noelia , Fernández José , Rodríguez-Damián María
Published: March 2023

In this paper, we analyze, from the numerical point of view, a swelling porous thermo-elastic problem. The so-called second-sound effect is introduced and modeled by using the simplest Maxwell–Cattaneo law. This problem leads to a coupled system which is written by using the displacements of the fluid and the solid, the temperature and the heat flux. The numerical analysis of this problem is performed applying the classical finite element method with linear elements for the spatial approximation and the backward Euler scheme for the discretization of the time derivatives. Then, we prove the stability of the discrete solutions and we provide an a priori error analysis. Finally, some numerical simulations are performed to demonstrate the accuracy of the approximations, the exponential decay of the discrete energy and the dependence on a coupling parameter.
Estimation of Dependent Competing Risks Model with Baseline Proportional Hazards Models under Minimum Ranked Set Sampling
Authors: Zhou Ying , Wang Liang , Tsai Tzong-Ru , Tripathi Yogesh
Published: March 2023

The ranked set sampling (RSS) is an efficient and flexible sampling method. Based on a modified RSS named minimum ranked set sampling samples (MinRSSU), inference of a dependent competing risks model is proposed in this paper. Then, Marshall–Olkin bivariate distribution model is used to describe the dependence of competing risks. When the competing risks data follow the proportional hazard rate distribution, a dependent competing risks model based on MinRSSU sampling is constructed. In addition, the model parameters and reliability indices were estimated by the classical and Bayesian method. Maximum likelihood estimators and corresponding asymptotic confidence intervals are constructed by using asymptotic theory. In addition, the Bayesian estimator and highest posterior density credible intervals are established under the general prior. Furthermore, according to E-Bayesian theory, the point and interval estimators of model parameters and reliability indices are obtained by a sampling algorithm. Finally, extensive simulation studies and a real-life example are presented for illustrations.
A Distinct Saponin Profile Drives an Olfactory-Mediated Aggregation in the Aquacultivated Sea Cucumber Holothuria scabra
Authors: Claereboudt Emily J. S. , Claereboudt Michel R. , Savarino Philippe , Caulier Guillaume , Gaumez Loic , Deleu Magali , Gerbaux Pascal , Eeckhaut Igor
Published: March 2023

Intraspecific chemical communication between echinoderms has often been limited to prespawning aggregation. However, sea cucumber farmers have long observed year-round adult aggregation as a potential source of disease propagation and the suboptimal use of available sea pen acreage and food resources. In this study, through spatial distribution statistics, we demonstrated the significant aggregation of the aquacultivated sea cucumber Holothuria scabra both as adults in large sea-based pens and as juveniles in laboratory-based aquaria, proving that aggregation in these animals is not only observed during spawning. The role of chemical communication in aggregation was investigated using olfactory experimental assays. Our study established that the sediment that H. scabra feeds on as well as the water preconditioned by conspecifics induced positive chemotaxis in juvenile individuals. More specifically, through comparative mass spectrometry, a distinct triterpenoid saponin profile/mixture was identified to be a pheromone allowing sea cucumber intraspecific recognition and aggregation. This “attractive” profile was characterized as containing disaccharide saponins. This “attractive” aggregation-inducing saponin profile was, however, not conserved in starved individuals that were no longer attractive to other conspecifics. In summary, this study sheds new light on the pheromones in echinoderms. It highlights the complexity of the chemical signals detected by sea cucumbers and suggests a role of saponins well beyond that of a simple toxin.
Photochemical Reduction of Silver Nanoparticles on Diatoms
Authors: León-Valencia Adrián , Briceño Sarah , Reinoso Carlos , Vizuete Karla , Debut Alexis , Caetano Manuel , González Gema
Published: March 2023

In this work, the photochemical reduction method was used at 440 or 540 nm excitation wavelengths to optimize the deposition of silver nanoparticles on the diatom surface as a potential DNA biosensor. The as-synthesized nanocomposites were characterized by ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis), Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), fluorescence microscopy, and Raman spectroscopy. Our results revealed a 5.5-fold enhancement in the fluorescence response of the nanocomposite irradiated at 440 nm with DNA. The enhanced sensitivity comes from the optical coupling of the guided-mode resonance of the diatoms and the localized surface plasmon of the silver nanoparticles interacting with the DNA. The advantage of this work involves the use of a low-cost green method to optimize the deposition of plasmonic nanoparticles on diatoms as an alternative fabrication method for fluorescent biosensors.
The Interference of Age and Gender on Smile Characterization Analyzed on Six Parameters: A Clinical-Photographic Pilot Study
Authors: Cunha Joana , Fernandes Gustavo Vicentis Oliveira , Fernandes Juliana Campos Hasse , Lopes Pedro C. , Rio Rute
Published: March 2023

Background and Objective: This study aimed to evaluate six smile-esthetic parameters (deviation of the upper dental midline from the facial midline, upper lip curvature, smile line, smile arch, smile width, and shape of the maxillary central incisors), correlating them with age and gender. Materials and methods: Caucasian individuals (N = 114) were grouped by gender (male and female) and age (group I—18 to 30 years old; group II—31 to 50 years old; and group III—over 50 years old). Using a digital camera, extra and intraoral pictures were taken to analyze the variables above-mentioned. The data were statistically evaluated, considering a significance level of p < 0.05. Results: Most participants found deviations of the upper dental midline, straight upper lip curvature, and the medium smile line coincided with the facial midline. The parallel smile arch exposing 9 to 11 upper teeth, the absence of exposure of lower teeth when smiling, and oval upper incisors were prevalent parameters. Regarding gender, significant results were found for the curvature of the upper lip (p = 0.049), the smile arch (p = 0.001), and the shape of the upper central incisors (p = 0.004). For age, the association with the curvature of the upper lip (p = 0.032), the smile line (p = 0.001), the smile arch (p = 0.007), the width of the smile exposing lower teeth (p = 0.002), and the shape of the upper central incisors (0.012) were significant. Conclusions: Within this study’s limitations, gender and age affect the anterior teeth shape and upper lip curves; gender and age did not influence the coincidence between dental and facial midlines.