bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling of a Compact, Implantable, Dual-Band Antenna for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Bahrouni Majdi , Houzet Gregory , Vuong Tan Phu , Mendes Paulo M. , Dinis Hugo , Silva Rui , Trabelsi Hichem
Published: March 2023

Different implantable antenna designs exist to establish communication with implantable devices depending on the domain of use and the implantation space. Owing to their nature and purposes, these antennas have many imposed criteria on various characteristics, such as bandwidth, multiband behavior, radiation pattern, gain, and specific absorption rate (SAR). This presents a challenge when it comes to achieving satisfying results without a major compromise in any of these crucial parameters. Additionally, many of the existing designs do not follow a specific approach to obtain results. Measuring different parameters of such fabricated structures requires special conditions and special environments mimicking the tissues where they are supposed to be placed. For such issues, the use of biological or synthetic phantoms is widely employed to validate what is obtained in simulation, and a multitude of formulas exist for the creation of such phantoms, each with its advantages and drawbacks. In this paper, a miniature dual-band structure derived from the first iteration of the Koch fractal structure is designed to operate 2 mm below the skin in the arm of the human body, with the MICS (Medical Implant Communication System) and ISM (Industrial, Scientific, Medical) 2.4 GHz bands. The purposes of the design are to derive structures from commonly used shapes with certain behavior while maintaining miniaturization, and to easily design dual-band implantable antennas. More than one band is used to diversify uses, since bands such as the MICS band are mainly dedicated to telemetry. The structure is characterized not only by its low profile compared to various structures found in the literature with dimensions of 17.2 × 14.8 × 0.254 mm3, but also its ease of design, independent shifting of resonant frequencies, and the absence of the need for a matching circuit and a shorting pin (via) for miniaturization. It exhibits satisfying performance: bandwidths of 23 MHz in the MICS band and 190 and 70 MHz in the vicinity of the ISM 2.4 GHz band, and measured gain in the latter band of −18.66 and −17 dBi in the azimuth and elevation radiation patterns, respectively. To validate the antenna’s properties in a skin-mimicking environment, two simple phantom formulas found in the literature were explored and compared in order to identify the best option in terms of accuracy and ease of fabrication.
STATCOM Switching Technique Based on a Finite-State Machine
Authors: Contreras César , Quirós Juan C. , Casaucao Inmaculada , Triviño Alicia , Villagrasa Eliseo , Aguado José A.
Published: March 2023

The Voltage Source Converter (VSC) is the basis of STATCOMs and other power systems. It is composed of a three-phase inverter in which the activation of the switching devices must be controlled to generate the intended signals. The control technique used to switch the power devices affects the performance of the converter in terms of harmonic distortion mainly. Although some complex modulation techniques have been proposed in the related literature, local controllers opt for simpler methods as they provide robustness and they ease the implementation. In this paper, we propose a simple but effective technique to switch the transistors of a three-phase inverter with a Space Vector Modulation (SVM) supported by a Finite-State Machine (FSM). With this model, the switching technique can be easily implemented in low-cost microcontrollers with reduced memory and computational resources if code optimisation is performed. With an electrical analysis, we have designed a low-pass band filter adequate for the proposed switching technique. In a laboratory prototype, the performance of this proposal is evaluated under static and dynamic conditions. When compared with other control techniques (classical SVM and PWM), we conclude that a similar harmonic distortion is achieved.
Theoretical and Experimental Comparative Analysis of Finite Control Set Model Predictive Control Strategies
Authors: Comarella Breno Ventorim , Carletti Daniel , Yahyaoui Imene , Encarnação Lucas Frizera
Published: March 2023

This research paper studies and highlights the features of the most popular finite control set model predictive control (FCS-MPC) strategies available in the state of the art, which are the optimal switching vector (OSV-MPC), modulated model predictive control (M2PC), and optimal switching sequence (OSS-MPC) methods. Thus, these strategies are studied experimentally by analyzing the transient and steady state performance using a grid tie conventional three-phase two-level voltage source inverter (VSI) with inductive output filter in a Typhoon HIL real-time simulator (RTS) with a Texas Instruments F28379D digital signal processor (DSP). Hence, quantitative indicators, such as the maximum tracking error, the mean absolute error, the settling time, the total harmonic distortion, the switching frequency spectrum, the switching pattern, and the computational burden are compared with the aim to deduce the best strategy for each criteria.
A Short-Term Load Forecasting Model Based on Crisscross Grey Wolf Optimizer and Dual-Stage Attention Mechanism
Authors: Gong Renxi , Li Xianglong
Published: March 2023

Accurate short-term load forecasting is of great significance to the safe and stable operation of power systems and the development of the power market. Most existing studies apply deep learning models to make predictions considering only one feature or temporal relationship in load time series. Therefore, to obtain an accurate and reliable prediction result, a hybrid prediction model combining a dual-stage attention mechanism (DA), crisscross grey wolf optimizer (CS-GWO) and bidirectional gated recurrent unit (BiGRU) is proposed in this paper. DA is introduced on the input side of the model to improve the sensitivity of the model to key features and information at key time points simultaneously. CS-GWO is formed by combining the horizontal and vertical crossover operators, to enhance the global search ability and the diversity of the population of GWO. Meanwhile, BiGRU is optimized by CS-GWO to accelerate the convergence of the model. Finally, a collected load dataset, four evaluation metrics and parametric and non-parametric testing manners are used to evaluate the proposed CS-GWO-DA-BiGRU short-term load prediction model. The experimental results show that the RMSE, MAE and SMAPE are reduced respectively by 3.86%, 1.37% and 0.30% of those of the second-best performing CSO-DA-BiGRU model, which demonstrates that the proposed model can better fit the load data and achieve better prediction results.
An Electrical Power System Reconfiguration Model Based on Optimal Transmission Switching under Scenarios of Intentional Attacks
Authors: Toctaquiza Juan , Carrión Diego , Jaramillo Manuel
Published: March 2023

Currently, operating electrical power systems (EPS) is a complex task that relies on the experience of the operators or the strength of algorithms developed for autonomous operation. The continuous operation of EPS is vulnerable to intentional cybernetic and physical attacks. With the most significant extension and distribution in the EPS, the transmission lines are most exposed to potential attacks. Before this, the entire behavior of the EPS changes, and, on occasions, a blackout can even be generated. The present investigation focused on developing a methodology for reconfiguring the power system against intentional attacks, considering the topology change through optimal switching of transmission lines (OTS) based on optimal DC flows and quantifying the contingency index, which allows for the identification of the weaknesses of the EPS. The methodology was applied to the IEEE 30−bus system, and contingencies were randomly generated, as is typical with intentional attacks. The study successfully identified the reconfiguration strategy of EPS based on OTS-DC, mitigating potential problems such as line loadability and voltage angle deviation in the nodes.
Transmission of Vibrations from Windings to Tank in High Power Transformers
Authors: Witczak Pawel , Swiatkowski Michal
Published: March 2023

This article presents a step-by-step methodology for calculating transformer tank vibrations caused by electromagnetic forces. This approach uses 3D finite element models for both magnetic and structural calculations. Particular attention was paid to the description of momentum transfer between structural and fluid areas of the transformer. The actual geometry of the coils in the phase windings was taken into account. The dominant role of the axial component of the Lorentz force is the main conclusion of the article. The results are given in the form of three-dimensional displacement fields of the transformer tank presented together with the acoustic pressure field in the oil. The theoretical analysis is verified by laser-scanned vibration patterns on the tank wall.
Metschnikowia pulcherrima in Cold Clarification: Biocontrol Activity and Aroma Enhancement in Verdicchio Wine
Authors: Agarbati Alice , Canonico Laura , Ciani Maurizio , Comitini Francesca
Published: March 2023

Non-Saccharomyces wine yeasts are not only proposed to improve the sensory profile of wine but also for several distinctive promising features. Among them, biocontrol action at different steps of the wine production chain could be a suitable strategy to reduce the use of sulfur dioxide. In this work, the activity of a selected strain of Metschnikowia pulcherrima was evaluated as inoculum in cold clarification with the aim to reduce SO2 and improve the aromatic profile of the wine. Fermentation processes were carried out at the winery level for two consecutive vintages using a pied de cuve as the starter inoculum coming from indigenous Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains. M. pulcherrima revealed an effective bio-protectant action during the pre-fermentative stage even if the timely and appropriate starter inoculum in the two years permitted the effective control of wild yeasts during the fermentation also in the control trials. In general, the main oenological characters did not show differences if compared with an un-inoculated trial, while the inoculum of M. pucherrima in cold clarification determined an enhancement of ethyl hexanoate, isobutanol, acetaldehyde, and geraniol even if they are considered in different amounts for each year. Indeed, the analytical and sensory profiles of wines were also influenced by the vintage and variation pied the cuve population. Nonetheless, the overall results indicated that M. pulcherrima led to biocontrol action and an improvement of the aromatic and sensory profile of the wine.
Correction: Pei et al. Structural Characteristics and the Antioxidant and Hypoglycemic Activities of a Polysaccharide from Lonicera caerulea L. Pomace. Fermentation 2022, 8, 422
Authors: Pei Fangyi , Lv Yuze , Cao Xinbo , Wang Xuemeng , Ren Yanxin , Ge Jingping
Published: March 2023

In the original publication [...]
Fungal Biostarter Effect on the Quality of Dry-Aged Beef
Authors: Przybylski Wiesław , Jaworska Danuta , Płecha Magdalena , Dukaczewska Karina , Ostrowski Grzegorz , Sałek Piotr , Sawicki Krzysztof , Pawłowska Julia
Published: March 2023

Meat aging is a process consisting of its storage in specific conditions which leads to an increase in its organoleptic qualities. The most common method of meat aging is the wet vacuum-bag based method, whereas the traditional method, called dry-aging, involves keeping meat at a low temperature for an extended time. However, this process is characterized by low repeatability of the results. Therefore, different approaches to stabilize the process are tested. The aim of this study was to analyze the influence of the Mucor flavus biostarter on the physicochemical characteristics and sensory quality of dry-aged beef (DAB). We hypothesized that a fungal biostarter positively influences the quality of DAB and stabilizes the dry-aging process. Meat control samples (N = 7) and samples inoculated with the Mucor flavus biostarter (N = 7), originating from 14 individuals crossbred from Holstein-Friesian cows with bulls of meat breeds, were put into the dry-aging fridge (DryAger, Bad Saulgau, Germany) for 28 days. The physicochemical parameters (pH, color parameters, WHC, GP (glycolytic potential), chemical composition of muscle, the content of malondialdehyde, shear force), muscular protein proteolysis (SDS-PAGE), sensory quality, and microbial composition of DAB were assessed after aging. The results showed a significant effect of the fungal biostarter on pH increase (0.25 units), and light myosin chain proteolysis (approximately 16%) as well as improvement of sensory quality (e.g., acceptability was improved by one unit in an applied scale 1–9). All together, the M. flavus-based biostarter was shown to increase the quality of DAB.
Changes in the Quality of High-Oleic Sunflower Oil during the Frying of Shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei)
Authors: Chen Jiechang , Zhao Yuanyuan , Wu Runlin , Yin Tao , You Juan , Hu Benlun , Jia Caihua , Rong Jianhua , Liu Ru , Zhang Binjia , Zhao Siming
Published: March 2023

Shrimp fried in vegetable oil is a very popular food, so it is important to study the changes in the quality of the oil during frying. In order to more precisely study the nature of frying oil during the cooking process, this study investigated the quality changes of high-oleic sunflower oil during the frying of South American white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei). The oxidation and hydrolysis products of frying oils were investigated by integrating the proton nuclear magnetic resonance technique with traditional oil evaluation indexes in an integrated manner. The results showed that the color difference as measured using the ΔE* value increased gradually during the process. Moreover, the acid value, carbonyl value, and total oxidation significantly increased with prolonged frying time. The major oxidation products formed during frying were (E,E)-2-alkenals, (E,E)-2,4-alkadienals, and E,E-conjugated hydroperoxides. This indicated that longer treatment times corresponded with an increased accumulation of aldehydes and ketones, and an increased degree of oxidative deterioration of the oil. However, the proportion of oleic acid in the frying oil increased with the frying of shrimp, reaching 80.05% after 24 h. These results contribute to our understanding of the oxidative deterioration of high-oleic oils during frying, and provide an important reference for the application properties of high-oleic oils.
The Interplay between Radio AGN Activity and Their Host Galaxies
Authors: Couto Guilherme S. , Storchi-Bergmann Thaisa
Published: March 2023

Radio activity in AGN (Active Galactic Nuclei) produce feedback on the host galaxy via the impact of the relativistic jets on the circumnuclear gas. Although radio jets can reach up to several times the optical radius of the host galaxy, in this review we focus on the observation of the feedback deposited locally in the central region of the host galaxies, in the form of outflows due to the jet-gas interaction. We begin by discussing how galaxy mergers and interactions are the most favored scenario for triggering radio AGN after gas accretion to the nuclear supermassive black hole and star formation enhancement in the nuclear region, observed in particular in the most luminous sources. We then discuss observational signatures of the process of jet-gas coupling, in particular the resulting outflows and their effects on the host galaxy. These include the presence of shock signatures and the detection of outflows not only along the radio jet but perpendicular to it in many sources. Although most of the studies are done via the observation of ionized gas, molecular gas is also being increasingly observed in outflow, contributing to the bulk of the mass outflow rate. Even though most radio sources present outflow kinetic powers that do not reach 1%Lbol, and thus do not seem to provide an immediate impact on the host galaxy, they act to heat the ISM gas, preventing star formation, slowing the galaxy mass build-up process and limiting the stellar mass growth, in a “maintenance mode” feedback.
Analysis of Spatial-Temporal Evolution Pattern and Its Influencing Factors of Warehouse Supermarkets in Liaoning Province
Authors: Huang Hao , Li Di , Han Zenglin , Zhang Hao , Wang Hongye , Duan Ye
Published: March 2023

Based on the data of existing warehouse supermarkets in Liaoning Province, China, spatial autocorrelation analysis, kernel density analysis, composite correlation coefficient analysis and other methods have been adopted to analyze their spatial-temporal evolution pattern to reflect the general law of the development of China’s existing warehouse supermarkets and fill the gap in this research field. The results show that the spatial distribution of warehouse supermarkets in Liaoning Province is extremely uneven, and areas with high nuclear density are distributed along the “Shenyang-Dalian” line belonging to the aggregation distribution. The Lorentz curve shows a downward trend with a large degree of spatial imbalance, that is, the regional concentration of warehouse supermarkets is high. Through global and local autocorrelation analysis, the regions with similar development levels of warehouse supermarkets in Liaoning Province tend to gather together, and the spatial distribution has a strong correlation. The distribution of warehousing supermarkets in Liaoning Province is affected by traffic location conditions, economic conditions, population quantity and population density, the number of urban functional areas, policy conditions and the role of the government, especially by economic conditions.
DNA Methylation Analysis Identifies Novel Epigenetic Loci in Dilated Murine Heart upon Exposure to Volume Overload
Authors: Xu Xingbo , Elkenani Manar , Tan Xiaoying , Hain Jara katharina , Cui Baolong , Schnelle Moritz , Hasenfuss Gerd , Toischer Karl , Mohamed Belal A.
Published: March 2023

Left ventricular (LV) dilatation, a prominent risk factor for heart failure (HF), precedes functional deterioration and is used to stratify patients at risk for arrhythmias and cardiac mortality. Aberrant DNA methylation contributes to maladaptive cardiac remodeling and HF progression following pressure overload and ischemic cardiac insults. However, no study has examined cardiac DNA methylation upon exposure to volume overload (VO) despite being relatively common among HF patients. We carried out global methylome analysis of LV harvested at a decompensated HF stage following exposure to VO induced by aortocaval shunt. VO resulted in pathological cardiac remodeling, characterized by massive LV dilatation and contractile dysfunction at 16 weeks after shunt. Although methylated DNA was not markedly altered globally, 25 differentially methylated promoter regions (DMRs) were identified in shunt vs. sham hearts (20 hypermethylated and 5 hypomethylated regions). The validated hypermethylated loci in Junctophilin-2 (Jph2), Signal peptidase complex subunit 3 (Spcs3), Vesicle-associated membrane protein-associated protein B (Vapb), and Inositol polyphosphate multikinase (Ipmk) were associated with the respective downregulated expression and were consistently observed in dilated LV early after shunt at 1 week after shunt, before functional deterioration starts to manifest. These hypermethylated loci were also detected peripherally in the blood of the shunt mice. Altogether, we have identified conserved DMRs that could be novel epigenetic biomarkers in dilated LV upon VO exposure.
Blockade of ß-Adrenergic Receptors by Nebivolol Enables Tumor Control Potential for Uveal Melanoma in 3D Tumor Spheroids and 2D Cultures
Authors: Farhoumand Lina S. , Liu Hongtao , Tsimpaki Theodora , Hendgen-Cotta Ulrike B. , Rassaf Tienush , Bechrakis Nikolaos E. , Fiorentzis Miltiadis , Berchner-Pfannschmidt Utta
Published: March 2023

Uveal melanoma (UM) is the most common primary cancer of the eye in adults. A new systemic therapy is needed to reduce the high metastasis and mortality rate. As β-blockers are known to have anti-tumor effects on various cancer entities, this study focuses on investigating the effect of β1-selective blockers atenolol, celiprolol, bisoprolol, metoprolol, esmolol, betaxolol, and in particular, nebivolol on UM. The study was performed on 3D tumor spheroids as well as 2D cell cultures, testing tumor viability, morphological changes, long-term survival, and apoptosis. Flow cytometry revealed the presence of all three β-adrenoceptors with a dominance of β2-receptors on cell surfaces. Among the blockers tested, solely nebivolol concentration-dependently decreased viability and altered 3D tumor spheroid structure. Nebivolol blocked the repopulation of cells spreading from 3D tumor spheroids, indicating a tumor control potential at a concentration of ≥20 µM. Mechanistically, nebivolol induced ATP depletion and caspase-3/7 activity, indicating that mitochondria-dependent signaling is involved. D-nebivolol or nebivolol combined with the β2-antagonist ICI 118.551 displayed the highest anti-tumor effects, suggesting a contribution of both β1- and β2-receptors. Thus, the present study reveals the tumor control potential of nebivolol in UM, which may offer a perspective for co-adjuvant therapy to reduce recurrence or metastasis.
Berberine Rescues D-Ribose-Induced Alzheimer‘s Pathology via Promoting Mitophagy
Authors: Wang Chuanling , Zou Qian , Pu Yinshuang , Cai Zhiyou , Tang Yong
Published: March 2023

Mitochondrial dysfunction is considered an early event of Alzheimer disease (AD). D-ribose is a natural monosaccharide that exists in cells, especially in mitochondria, and can lead to cognitive dysfunction. However, the reason for this is unclear. Berberine (BBR) is an isoquinoline alkaloid that can target mitochondria and has great prospect in the treatment of AD. The methylation of PINK1 reinforces the burden of Alzheimer’s pathology. This study explores the role of BBR and D-ribose in the mitophagy and cognitive function of AD related to DNA methylation. APP/PS1 mice and N2a cells were treated with D-ribose, BBR, and mitophagy inhibitor Mdivi-1 to observe their effects on mitochondrial morphology, mitophagy, neuron histology, AD pathology, animal behavior, and PINK1 methylation. The results showed that D-ribose induced mitochondrial dysfunction, mitophagy damage, and cognitive impairment. However, BBR inhibition of PINK1 promoter methylation can reverse the above effects caused by D-ribose, improve mitochondrial function, and restore mitophagy through the PINK1–Parkin pathway, thus reducing cognitive deficits and the burden of AD pathology. This experiment puts a new light on the mechanism of action of D-ribose in cognitive impairment and reveals new insights in the use of BBR for AD treatment.
A Novel Resveratrol-Induced Pathway Increases Neuron-Derived Cell Resilience against Oxidative Stress
Authors: Cracco Patrizio , Montalesi Emiliano , Parente Martina , Cipolletti Manuela , Iucci Giovanna , Battocchio Chiara , Venditti Iole , Fiocchetti Marco , Marino Maria
Published: March 2023

A promising therapeutic strategy to delay and/or prevent the onset of neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) could be to restore neuroprotective pathways physiologically triggered by neurons against stress injury. Recently, we identified the accumulation of neuroglobin (NGB) in neuronal cells, induced by the 17β-estradiol (E2)/estrogen receptor β (ERβ) axis, as a protective response that increases mitochondria functionality and prevents the activation of apoptosis, increasing neuron resilience against oxidative stress. Here, we would verify if resveratrol (Res), an ERβ ligand, could reactivate NGB accumulation and its protective effects against oxidative stress in neuronal-derived cells (i.e., SH-SY5Y cells). Our results demonstrate that ERβ/NGB is a novel pathway triggered by low Res concentrations that lead to rapid and persistent NGB accumulation in the cytosol and in mitochondria, where the protein contributes to reducing the apoptotic death induced by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Intriguingly, Res conjugation with gold nanoparticles increases the stilbene efficacy in enhancing neuron resilience against oxidative stress. As a whole, ERβ/NGB axis regulation is a novel mechanism triggered by low concentration of Res to regulate, specifically, the neuronal cell resilience against oxidative stress reducing the triggering of the apoptotic cascade.
Factors and Mechanisms Influencing Conjugation In Vivo in the Gastrointestinal Tract Environment: A Review
Authors: Liu Wei , Huang Yanhu , Zhang Han , Liu Ziyi , Huan Quanmin , Xiao Xia , Wang Zhiqiang
Published: March 2023

The emergence and spread of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) have imposed a serious threat on global public health. Horizontal gene transfer (HGT) via plasmids is mainly responsible for the spread of ARGs, and conjugation plays an important role in HGT. The conjugation process is very active in vivo and its effect on the spreading of ARGs may be underestimated. In this review, factors affecting conjugation in vivo, especially in the intestinal environment, are summarized. In addition, the potential mechanisms affecting conjugation in vivo are summarized from the perspectives of bacterial colonization and the conjugation process.
New Advancements in Cisplatin-Based Treatments
Authors: Gentilin Erica
Published: March 2023

Cisplatin (cis-diamminedichloroplatinum (II)) is one of the most broadly used chemotherapies worldwide [...]
Relationships between Circulating Sclerostin, Bone Marrow Adiposity, Other Adipose Deposits and Lean Mass in Post-Menopausal Women
Authors: Courtalin Marion , Bertheaume Nicolas , Badr Sammy , During Alexandrine , Lombardo Daniela , Deken Valérie , Cortet Bernard , Clabaut Aline , Paccou Julien
Published: March 2023

Sclerostin is a Wnt signaling pathway inhibitor that negatively regulates bone formation. Bone-marrow-derived stromal cell (BMSC) differentiation is influenced by the Wnt pathway, leading to the hypothesis that higher levels of sclerostin might be associated with an increase in bone marrow adiposity (BMA). The main purpose of this study was to determine whether a relationship exists between circulating sclerostin and BMA in post-menopausal women with and without fragility fractures. The relationships between circulating sclerostin and body composition parameters were then examined. The outcomes measures included vertebral and hip proton density fat fraction (PDFF) using the water fat imaging (WFI) MRI method; DXA scans; and laboratory measurements, including serum sclerostin. In 199 participants, no significant correlations were found between serum sclerostin and PDFF. In both groups, serum sclerostin was correlated positively with bone mineral density (R = 0.27 to 0.56) and negatively with renal function (R = −0.22 to −0.29). Serum sclerostin correlated negatively with visceral adiposity in both groups (R = −0.24 to −0.32). Serum sclerostin correlated negatively with total body fat (R = −0.47) and appendicular lean mass (R = −0.26) in the fracture group, but not in the controls. No evidence of a relationship between serum sclerostin and BMA was found. However, serum sclerostin was negatively correlated with body composition components, such as visceral adiposity, total body fat and appendicular lean mass.
Unraveling the Molecular Basis of Mycosporine Biosynthesis in Fungi
Authors: Sepúlveda Dionisia , Campusano Sebastián , Moliné Martín , Barahona Salvador , Baeza Marcelo , Alcaíno Jennifer , Colabella Fernando , Urzúa Blanca , Libkind Diego , Cifuentes Víctor
Published: March 2023

The Phaffia rhodozyma UCD 67-385 genome harbors a 7873 bp cluster containing DDGS, OMT, and ATPG, encoding 2-desmethy-4-deoxygadusol synthase, O-methyl transferase, and ATP-grasp ligase, respectively, of the mycosporine glutaminol (MG) biosynthesis pathway. Homozygous deletion mutants of the entire cluster, single-gene mutants, and the Δddgs−/−;Δomt−/− and Δomt−/−;Δatpg−/− double-gene mutants did not produce mycosporines. However, Δatpg−/− accumulated the intermediate 4-deoxygadusol. Heterologous expression of the DDGS and OMT or DDGS, OMT, and ATPG cDNAs in Saccharomyces cerevisiae led to 4-deoxygadusol or MG production, respectively. Genetic integration of the complete cluster into the genome of the non-mycosporine-producing CBS 6938 wild-type strain resulted in a transgenic strain (CBS 6938_MYC) that produced MG and mycosporine glutaminol glucoside. These results indicate the function of DDGS, OMT, and ATPG in the mycosporine biosynthesis pathway. The transcription factor gene mutants Δmig1−/−, Δcyc8−/−, and Δopi1−/− showed upregulation, Δrox1−/− and Δskn7−/− showed downregulation, and Δtup6−/− and Δyap6−/− showed no effect on mycosporinogenesis in glucose-containing medium. Finally, comparative analysis of the cluster sequences in several P. rhodozyma strains and the four newly described species of the genus showed the phylogenetic relationship of the P. rhodozyma strains and their differentiation from the other species of the genus Phaffia.
Eupatilin Ameliorates Hepatic Fibrosis and Hepatic Stellate Cell Activation by Suppressing β-catenin/PAI-1 Pathway
Authors: Hu Jinyuan , Liu Yuanyuan , Pan Zheng , Huang Xuekuan , Wang Jianwei , Cao Wenfu , Chen Zhiwei
Published: March 2023

The activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) has proved to be pivotal in hepatic fibrosis. Therefore, the suppression of HSC activation is an effective anti-fibrotic strategy. Although studies have indicated that eupatilin, a bioactive flavone found in Artemisia argyi, has anti-fibrotic properties, the effect of eupatilin on hepatic fibrosis is currently unclear. In this study, we used the human hepatic stellate cell line LX-2 and the classical CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis mouse model for in vitro and vivo experiments. We found that eupatilin significantly repressed the levels of the fibrotic markers COL1α1 and α-SMA, as well as other collagens in LX-2 cells. Meanwhile, eupatilin markedly inhibited LX-2 cell proliferation, as verified by the reduced cell viability and down-regulation of c-Myc, cyclinB1, cyclinD1, and CDK6. Additionally, eupatilin decreased the level of PAI-1 in a dose-dependent manner, and knockdown of PAI-1 using PAI-1-specific shRNA significantly suppressed the levels of COL1α1, α-SMA, and the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) marker N-cadherin in LX-2 cells. Western blotting indicated that eupatilin reduced the protein level of β-catenin and its nuclear translocation, while the transcript level of β-catenin was not affected in LX-2 cells. Furthermore, analysis of histopathological changes in the liver and markers of liver function and fibrosis revealed that hepatic fibrosis in CCl4-treated mice was markedly alleviated by eupatilin. In conclusion, eupatilin ameliorates hepatic fibrosis and hepatic stellate cell activation by suppressing the β-catenin/PAI-1 pathway.
The Recent Advances in Molecular Diagnosis of Soft Tissue Tumors
Authors: Choi Joon Hyuk , Ro Jae Y.
Published: March 2023

Soft tissue tumors are rare mesenchymal tumors with divergent differentiation. The diagnosis of soft tissue tumors is challenging for pathologists owing to the diversity of tumor types and histological overlap among the tumor entities. Present-day understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of soft tissue tumors has rapidly increased with the development of molecular genetic techniques (e.g., next-generation sequencing). Additionally, immunohistochemical markers that serve as surrogate markers for recurrent translocations in soft tissue tumors have been developed. This review aims to provide an update on recently described molecular findings and relevant novel immunohistochemical markers in selected soft tissue tumors.
Transcriptomic Study on Human Skin Samples: Identification of Two Subclasses of Actinic Keratoses
Authors: Dubois-Pot-Schneider Hélène , Khairallah Grégoire , Brzenczek Cyril , Plénat François , Marchal Frédéric , Amouroux Marine
Published: March 2023

Actinic keratoses (AKs) are sun-damaged skin areas that affect 20% of the European adult population and more than 50% of people aged 70 years and over. There are currently no clinical or histological features allowing us to identify to which clinical class (i.e., regression or progression) an AK belongs. A transcriptomic approach seems to be a robust tool for AK characterization, but there is a need for additional studies, including more patients and elucidating the molecular signature of an AK. In this context, the present study, including the largest number of patients to date, is the first aiming at identifying biological features to objectively distinguish different AK signatures. We highlight two distinct molecular profiles: AKs featuring a molecular profile similar to squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs), which are called “lesional AKs” (AK_Ls), and AKs featuring a molecular profile similar to normal skin tissue, which are called “non-lesional AKs” (AK_NLs). The molecular profiles of both AK subclasses were studied, and 316 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified between the two classes. The 103 upregulated genes in AK_L were related to the inflammatory response. Interestingly, downregulated genes were associated with keratinization. Finally, based on a connectivity map approach, our data highlight that the VEGF pathway could be a promising therapeutic target for high-risk lesions.
Experimental Investigations of Cement Clay Interlocking Brick Masonry Structures Strengthened with CFRP and Cement-Sand Mortar
Authors: Joyklad Panuwat , Waqas Hafiz Ahmad , Hafeez Abdul , Ali Nazam , Ejaz Ali , Hussain Qudeer , Khan Kaffayatullah , Sangthongtong Arissaman , Saingam Panumas
Published: March 2023

Many masonry structures are constructed with cement clay interlocking brick (CCIB) due to its added benefits. Recent research has demonstrated the vulnerability of brick masonry walls against seismic loading. Various strengthening materials and techniques are extensively used to improve the structural behavior of brick walls. Carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites are the most popular strengthening material due to their advantages of easy application, lightweight qualities, and superior tensile strength. The current research work aimed to explore the cost-effective solutions and feasibility of CFRP composite-based strengthening techniques to improve the load-bearing capacity of CCIB walls. Various configurations and combinations of strengthening materials were investigated to customize the cost of repair and strengthening. The experimental results indicated that CFRP composites in combination with cement-sand (CS) mortar are an efficient strengthening material to enhance the strength and ultimate deflection of CCIB walls. The ultimate load-bearing capacity and axial deformation of the strengthened CCIB wall (using two layers of CFRP strips and CS mortar of 10 mm thickness) remained 171% and 190% larger than the unstrengthened CCIB wall. The conclusions of this study are expected to enhance the seismic performance of masonry buildings in developing countries. It should be noted that due to the reduced number of tested specimens, the results to be assumed as general considerations need a wider experimental campaign and a large numbers of tests for each strengthening typology.
Shear Behavior of Recycled Coarse Aggregates Concrete Dry Joints Keys Using Digital Image Correlation Technique
Authors: Sousa Jedson Batista , Garcia Sergio Luis Gonzalez , Pierott Rodrigo Moulin Ribeiro
Published: March 2023

In this work, twenty-seven dry joint specimens of prestressed segmental bridges produced using recycled coarse aggregate concrete (RAC) were subjected to push-off tests. The substitution rate of coarse aggregate for recycled aggregate was 100%. The variables observed were the number of keys, including flat, single-keyed, and three-keyed, and the magnitude of the confining stress, varying at 1.0, 2.0, and 3.0 MPa. The slippage between both parts of the joint and the cracking of the specimens were analyzed using the digital image correlation technique (DIC). Equations from the literature were used to predict the shear strength of dry joints with recycled coarse aggregate concrete. The experimental results obtained from the present research were compared to those of other conventional concrete researchers. The results showed that the dry joints produced with recycled coarse aggregate concrete presented a crack formation in conventional concrete joints following a similar mechanism of failure; however, they presented lower strength. Some equations in the literature predicted the strength of dry joints with recycled coarse aggregate concrete. Based on the analysis performed, adopting a reduction coefficient of 0.7 in the AASHTO normative equation was recommended for predicting the shear strength of dry joints when produced with recycled coarse aggregates concrete.
Photocatalytic Reduction of Cr(VI) to Cr(III) and Photocatalytic Degradation of Methylene Blue and Antifungal Activity of Ag/TiO2 Composites Synthesized via the Template Induced Route
Authors: Zahid Zunaira , Rauf Abdul , Javed Mohsin , Alhujaily Ahmad , Iqbal Shahid , Amjad Adnan , Arif Muhammad , Hussain Sajjad , Bahadur Ali , Awwad Nasser S. , Ibrahium Hala A. , Al-Fawzan Foziah F. , Elkaeed Eslam B.
Published: March 2023

Water treatment through photocatalysts has become an important topic regarding environmental protection. In the present study, silver and TiO2 (Ag/TiO2) composites for photocatalysts were effectively synthesized by adopting the template induced method. The prepared samples were characterized using XRD, FTIR spectroscopy, SEM, and EDX. The constructed samples’ particle size and shape were evaluated using a SEM, and the XRD patterns showed anatase crystalline phases. Their morphologies were controllable with changing concentration of reactants and calcination temperature. The synthesized composites act as catalyst in the degradation of methylene blue (MB) and reduction of Cr(VI) to Cr(III) under solar irradiation. In both of these activities, the best result has been shown by the 0.01 Ag/TiO2 composite. Methanol is used as the hole scavenger in the reduction of Cr(VI) to Cr(III). While the pH factor is important in the photocatalytic reduction of Cr(VI) to Cr(III). According to observations, S. macrospora and S. maydis were each subject to 0.01 Ag/TiO2 nanocomposites maximum antifungal activity, which was 38.4 mm and 34.3 mm, respectively. The outcomes demonstrate that both photocatalytic and antifungal properties are effectively displayed by the constructed material.
Waterproofing Spray-Associated Lung Injury Review: Differences between Cases of Early and Delayed Improvement of Waterproofing Spray-Associated Lung Injury
Authors: Kodaka Norio , Nakano Chihiro , Oshio Takeshi , Watanabe Kayo , Niitsuma Kumiko , Imaizumi Chisato , Hirouchi Takatomo , Yoshida Yuto , Yamada Yuka , Matsuse Hiroto
Published: March 2023

Waterproofing spray-associated lung injury (WALI) is an acute respiratory disorder characterized by bilateral diffuse lung injury on chest computed tomography (CT). In most cases, the symptoms and abnormal radiographic findings of WALI patients improve spontaneously over several days; however, some cases have persistent symptoms and abnormal shadows for >1 week. The distinctive features of each WALI are unknown. Herein, we present two new cases of WALI that we encountered in our hospital, and we previously reported two other cases of WALI. We examined the characteristics of WALI in our cases and 39 other cases of WALI definitively diagnosed and reported in PubMed and the Japan medical board with verifiable data during a 15-year period. We compared the clinical characteristics of the 22 cases in which the patients’ symptoms were resolved within 1 week (early improvement) to those of the 21 cases in which the symptoms were resolved after >1 week (delayed improvement). The WALI cases with delayed improvement had significantly more shadowing that extended over the entire lung field and was not biased in intensity toward the upper or lower lung field. In addition, the serum white blood cell (WBC) counts and serum Krebs von den Lungen-6 (KL-6) levels differed significantly between the cases of early and delayed improvement of WALI.
Nivolumab or Atezolizumab in the Second-Line Treatment of Advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer? A Prognostic Index Based on Data from Daily Practice
Authors: Knetki-Wróblewska Magdalena , Tabor Sylwia , Piórek Aleksandra , Płużański Adam , Winiarczyk Kinga , Zaborowska-Szmit Magdalena , Zajda Katarzyna , Kowalski Dariusz M. , Krzakowski Maciej
Published: March 2023

Background: The efficacy of nivolumab and atezolizumab in advanced pre-treated NSCLC was documented in prospective trials. We aim to confirm the benefits and indicate predictive factors for immunotherapy in daily practice. Methods: This study was a retrospective analysis. The median PFS and OS were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method. The log-rank test was used for comparisons. Multivariate analyses were performed using the Cox regression method. Results: A total of 260 patients (ECOG 0-1) with advanced NSCLC (CS III-IV) were eligible to receive nivolumab or atezolizumab as second-line treatment. Median PFS and OS were three months (95% confidence interval [CI] 2.57–3.42) and 10 months (95% CI 8.03–11.96), respectively, for the overall population. The median OS for the atezolizumab arm was eight months (95% CI 5.89–10.1), while for the nivolumab group, it was 14 months (95% CI 10.02–17.97) (p = 0.018). The sum of all measurable changes >100.5 mm (p = 0.007; HR = 1.003, 95% CI 1.001–1.005), PLT > 281.5 G/l (p < 0.001; HR = 1.003, 95% CI 1.001–1.003) and bone metastases (p < 0.004; HR = 1.58, 95% CI 1.04–2.38) were independent negative prognostic factors for OS in multivariate analysis. Based on preliminary analyses, a prognostic index was constructed to obtain three prognostic groups. Median OS in the subgroups was 16 months (95% CI 13.3–18.7), seven months (95% CI 4.83–9.17) and four months (95% CI 2.88–5.13), respectively (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Nivolumab and atezolizumab provided clinical benefit in real life. Clinical and laboratory factors may help to identify subgroups likely to benefit. The use of prognostic indices may be valuable in clinical practice.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Right Ventricular Remodeling: Do We Have All the Answers?
Authors: Tadic Marijana , Cuspidi Cesare
Published: March 2023

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) syndrome is a very important sleep-related breathing disorder related to increased cardiovascular and overall morbidity and mortality. It is associated with multisystemic target organ damage due to micro- and macrovascular changes, resulting in carotid and coronary atherosclerosis, increased arterial stiffness, retinal damage, microalbuminuria, and cardiac remodeling. The latter consists of left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy, as well as diastolic and systolic dysfunction. The increasing burden of evidence shows that OSA also induces right ventricular (RV) remodeling that is more difficult to diagnose, but may also contribute to cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in these patients. Conventional echocardiographic parameters for assessment of RV systolic and diastolic functions are often not sensitive enough to detect subclinical and subtle changes in the RV function. Data published over last decade showed that the RV function, particularly systolic, is impaired in OSA patients and related with its severity. However, the introduction of speckle tracking echocardiography and the particularly longitudinal strain enabled the earlier detection of functional and mechanical changes even when conventional echocardiographic parameters of RV systolic function remained unchanged. The 3D echocardiography provided the possibility to evaluate the entire RV, with its unique shape, and determine 3D RV ejection fraction, which is comparable with results obtained by cardiac magnetic resonance. The use of this modality also provided a new insight into RV systolic (dys)function in OSA patients. In addition to weight loss, which has been proven very helpful in OSA patients, the only approved therapeutic approach is continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy. It is very important to assess if this therapy induces any improvement in cardiac structure and function. Limited data on this topic show that RV longitudinal strain is a more sensitive parameter rather than other conventional RV indexes in the detection of improvement in RV systolic function and mechanics. The aim of this review article is to summarize the current understanding of RV structural, functional, and mechanical changes in patients with OSA. Furthermore, we sought to provide the current knowledge regarding the effect of CPAP therapy on RV reverse remodeling in OSA patients.
Inflammation Responses to Bone Scaffolds under Mechanical Stimuli in Bone Regeneration
Authors: Wang Junjie , Yuan Bo , Yin Ruixue , Zhang Hongbo
Published: March 2023

Physical stimuli play an important role in one tissue engineering. Mechanical stimuli, such as ultrasound with cyclic loading, are widely used to promote bone osteogenesis; however, the inflammatory response under physical stimuli has not been well studied. In this paper, the signaling pathways related to inflammatory responses in bone tissue engineering are evaluated, and the application of physical stimulation to promote osteogenesis and its related mechanisms are reviewed in detail; in particular, how physical stimulation alleviates inflammatory responses during transplantation when employing a bone scaffolding strategy is discussed. It is concluded that physical stimulation (e.g., ultrasound and cyclic stress) helps to promote osteogenesis while reducing the inflammatory response. In addition, apart from 2D cell culture, more consideration should be given to the mechanical stimuli applied to 3D scaffolds and the effects of different force moduli while evaluating inflammatory responses. This will facilitate the application of physiotherapy in bone tissue engineering.
Uncertainty Assessment of Wave Elevation Field Measurement Using a Depth Camera
Authors: Kim Hoyong , Jeon Chanil , Kim Kiwon , Seo Jeonghwa
Published: March 2023

The present study suggests a methodology for acquiring wave elevation fields using a depth camera sensor, with assessment results for the test uncertainty. The depth camera module of an Azure Kinect is calibrated using marker arrays on the optic table, to obtain a polynomial mapping function between the pixel-wise and physical position. For installation of the depth camera in a wave channel, the system is aligned using the built-in inertial measurement unit of Azure Kinect to be perpendicular to the calm water surface. The systematic and random standard uncertainties were evaluated from the analysis of calibration and repeated tests, respectively. The wave height measurement results for the depth camera were compared to those for the capacitance-type and ultrasonic wave height gauges. The test uncertainty of the depth camera increased in large wave stiffness conditions, where the time-of-flight sensor has a disadvantage in measurement.