bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial assessments in texture analysis: what the radiologist needs to know
Authors: Varghese Bino A. , Fields Brandon K. K. , Hwang Darryl H. , Duddalwar Vinay A. , Matcuk George R. , Cen Steven Y.
Published: August 2023

To date, studies investigating radiomics-based predictive models have tended to err on the side of data-driven or exploratory analysis of many thousands of extracted features. In particular, spatial assessments of texture have proven to be especially adept at assessing for features of intratumoral heterogeneity in oncologic imaging, which likewise may correspond with tumor biology and behavior. These spatial assessments can be generally classified as spatial filters, which detect areas of rapid change within the grayscale in order to enhance edges and/or textures within an image, or neighborhood-based methods, which quantify gray-level differences of neighboring pixels/voxels within a set distance. Given the high dimensionality of radiomics datasets, data dimensionality reduction methods have been proposed in an attempt to optimize model performance in machine learning studies; however, it should be noted that these approaches should only be applied to training data in order to avoid information leakage and model overfitting. While area under the curve of the receiver operating characteristic is perhaps the most commonly reported assessment of model performance, it is prone to overestimation when output classifications are unbalanced. In such cases, confusion matrices may be additionally reported, whereby diagnostic cut points for model predicted probability may hold more clinical significance to clinical colleagues with respect to related forms of diagnostic testing.
Inspection and maintenance of industrial infrastructure with autonomous underwater robots
Authors: Nauert Franka , Kampmann Peter
Published: August 2023

Underwater infrastructure, such as pipelines, requires regular inspection and maintenance including cleaning, welding of defects and valve-turning or hot-stabbing. At the moment, these tasks are mostly performed by divers and Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) but the use of intervention Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (intervention-AUVs) can greatly reduce operation time, risk, and cost. However, autonomous underwater manipulation has not yet reached a high technological readiness and is an intensively researched topic. This review identifies key requirements based on necessary inspection and maintenance methods, linking them to the current technology and deriving major challenges which need to be addressed in development. These include the handling of tools, where a separation between handheld and mounted tools is detected in already employed underwater intervention vehicles such as the Sabertooth by Saab Seaeye or the Aquanaut by Nauticus robotics, two vehicles capable of semi-autonomous intervention. The main challenge identified concerns high level autonomy, i.e., the process of decision-making. This process includes detecting the correct point of interest, maximizing the workspace of the manipulator, planning the manipulation considering required forces, and monitoring the progress to allow for corrections and high quality results. In order to overcome these issues, reliable close range sensing and precise end point navigation is needed. By identifying these persisting challenges, the paper provides inspiration for further development directions in the field of autonomous underwater intervention.
The importance of recruitment and retention in Heliophysics: it’s not just a pipeline problem
Authors: Halford Alexa J. , Bard Christopher M. , Burrell Angeline G. , McGranaghan Ryan M. , Wilson III Lynn B. , Jones McArthur , Dong Chuanfei , Wang Liang , Pulkkinen Tuija I. , Turner Niescja , Liemohn Michael W. , Klenzing Jeff
Published: August 2023

A major obstacle in cultivating a robust Heliophysics (and broader scientific) community is the lack of diversity throughout science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. For many years, this has been understood as a “leaky pipeline” analogy, in which predominately minority students initially interested in STEM gradually fall (or are pushed) out of the field on their way to a scientific research position. However, this ignores critical structural and policy issues which drive even later career Ph.D.s out of a career in Heliophysics. We identify here several systemic problems that inhibit many from participating fully in the Heliophysics community, including soft money pressure, lack of accessibility and equity, power imbalances, lack of accountability, friction in collaboration, and difficulties in forming mentorship bonds. We present several recommendations to empower research-supporting organizations to help create a culture of inclusion, openness, and innovative science.
Hyperacute vestibular syndrome: the role of an acute vertigo service
Authors: Bierrum William , Haider Salman , Balaratnam Michelle , Alim-Marvasti Ali , Chandratheva Arvind , Simister Robert , Koohi Nehzat , Kaski Diego
Published: August 2023

Differentiating between peripheral and central causes of acute vertigo remains a clinical obstacle in the acute setting. Despite the availability of several validated diagnostic algorithms adoption and implementation of these tools is low because most emergency physicians are unfamiliar with them. Embedding an acute vertigo service within the emergency setting may help improve the diagnostic workup of patients presenting with this specific symptomatology and may have significant economic benefits, such as the avoidance of hospital admissions, reduction in unnecessary investigations, and decrease in length of hospital stay. In this work, we present four patients who were referred to the acute vertigo service at University College London Hospital (UCLH) for review. We discuss the indications for and limitations of implementing such a service.
Return to active duty after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) in Chinese male military aircrews
Authors: Zhang Hongxing , Yang Fengyuan , Xie Bowen , Chen Zhiqiang , Peng Ye , Chen Yufei , Li Tianqi , Huang Xiaogang , Xue Jing , Du Junjie
Published: August 2023

Background

Surgically treated anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries may be a waivable condition and allow return to full flight status, but waivers are based on expert opinion rather than recent published data. The purpose of this study was to evaluate return to flight after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) in male military aircrews with ACL injuries and to identify factors that affect flight clearance.

Method

A single-center retrospective review was conducted by the authors for all active-duty aircrew who underwent ACLR at an authorized military medical center from January 2010 to December 2019. Demographic characteristics, occupational information, surgical data, and flight readiness evaluation outcomes were collected. Based on the final medical evaluation, subjects were divided into a qualified group (N = 64) and a disqualified group (N = 9), and the difference in data collected between the two groups was then analyzed to identify factors affecting flight clearance.

Results

A total of 73 patients underwent successful ACLR with a mean age of 31.6 ± 5.6 years. Non-contact injury was the main type of ACL injury, accounting for 84.9% of the total injuries. 55 cases (75.3%) occurred during daily sports activities and 18 (24.7%) during military training. 64 of the 73 crewmembers (87.7%) were able to return to flight at their last follow-up evaluation. The preoperative interval time (PIT) was significantly less in the qualified group than in the disqualified group (P = 0.002). Patients who underwent ACLR within three months were more likely to return to flying than those who underwent the procedure three months later (97.4% vs. 76.5%, P = 0.010). The incidence of failure to return to flight duty was significantly higher in aircrews with ACL injuries combined with meniscal injuries than in aircrews with isolated ACL injuries (21.4% vs. 0.0%, P = 0.017).

Conclusion

ACLR appears to be safe for military aircrew suffering ACL injuries with or without meniscal injury, and return to flight status is the most likely outcome for the majority of postoperative pilots. Prolonged PIT, PIT > 3 months, and ACL injury combined with meniscus injury had a negative impact on postoperative flight readiness.
Whole transcriptome analysis of canine pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma
Authors: van den Berg Marit F. , Kooistra Hans S. , Grinwis Guy C. M. , Nicoli Stefano , Golinelli Stefania , Stammeleer Lisa , van Wolferen Monique E. , Timmermans-Sprang Elpetra P. M. , Zandvliet Maurice M. J. M. , van Steenbeek Frank G. , Galac Sara
Published: August 2023

Pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas (PPGLs) are neuroendocrine tumors arising from the chromaffin cells in the adrenal medulla and extra-adrenal paraganglia, respectively. Local invasion, concurrent disorders, and metastases prevent surgical removal, which is the most effective treatment to date. Given the current lack of effective medical treatment, there is a need for novel therapeutic strategies. To identify druggable pathways driving PPGL development, we performed RNA sequencing on PPGLs (n = 19) and normal adrenal medullas (NAMs; n = 10) of dogs. Principal component analysis (PCA) revealed that PPGLs clearly clustered apart from NAMs. In total, 4,218 genes were differentially expressed between PPGLs and NAMs. Of these, 232 had a log2 fold change of >3 or < −3, of which 149 were upregulated in PPGLs, and 83 were downregulated. Compared with NAMs, PPGLs had increased expression of genes related to the cell cycle, tumor development, progression and metastasis, hypoxia and angiogenesis, and the Wnt signaling pathway, and decreased expression of genes related to adrenal steroidogenesis. Our data revealed several overexpressed genes that could provide targets for novel therapeutics, such as Ret Proto-Oncogene (RET), Dopamine Receptor D2 (DRD2), and Secreted Frizzled Related Protein 2 (SFRP2). Based on the PCA, PPGLs were classified into 2 groups, of which group 1 had significantly higher Ki67 scores (p = 0.035) and shorter survival times (p = 0.04) than group 2. Increased expression of 1 of the differentially expressed genes between group 1 and 2, pleiotrophin (PTN), appeared to correlate with a more aggressive tumor phenotype. This study has shed light on the transcriptomic profile of canine PPGL, yielding new insights into the pathogenesis of these tumors in dogs, and revealed potential novel targets for therapy. In addition, we identified 2 transcriptionally distinct groups of PPGLs that had significantly different survival times.
On the Influence of Volumetric Energy Density and Inter-Layer Time on the Material Properties of Case-Hardening Steels
Authors: Bartels Dominic , Albert Moritz Elias , Nahr Florian , Schmidt Michael
Published: August 2023

Case-hardening steels are gaining increasing interest in the field of laser powder bed fusion (PBF-LB/M) due to their excellent weldability. In combination with post-process carburization heat treatment, the surface properties can be improved to generate high-strength products. When manufacturing larger products by means of PBF-LB/M, the in situ heat accumulation and the altered cooling rates affect the resulting material properties. Therefore, the fabrication of larger products requires an understanding on the influencing factors that affect the material properties. This work investigates the effect of different volumetric energy densities (VED) on the resulting microstructural and mechanical properties. It is found that the hardness decreases continuously along the build direction. The gradient depends on the applied energy and is stronger for higher energy inputs due to heat accumulation and lowered cooling rates. Furthermore, countering strategies are investigated to avoid process-specific hardness reduction along the build direction. This includes a reduced number of parts within the build job as well as a modified inter-layer time (ILT) between consecutive layers of the specimen. Applying a moderate inter-layer time helps to counter process-specific overheating, which is indicated by an almost homogeneous material hardness and melt pool size along the build direction.
Cadmium Exposure Affects Serum Metabolites and Proteins in the Male Guizhou Black Goat
Authors: Li Yuanfeng , Shen Xiaoyun
Published: August 2023

Food safety and environmental pollution are the hotspots of general concern globally. Notably, long-term accumulation of trace toxic heavy metals, such as cadmium (Cd), in animals may endanger human health via the food chain. The mechanism of Cd toxicity in the goat, a popular farmed animal, has not been extensively investigated to date. Therefore, in this study, ten male goats (Nubian black goat × native black goat) were exposed to Cd via drinking water containing CdCl2 (20 mg Cd·kg−1·BW) for 30 days (five male goats per group). In this study, we used an integrated approach combining proteomics and metabolomics to profile proteins and metabolites in the serum of Cd-exposed goats. It was found that Cd exposure impacted the levels of 30 serum metabolites and 108 proteins. The combined proteomic and metabolomic analysis revealed that Cd exposure affected arginine and proline metabolism, beta-alanine metabolism, and glutathione metabolism. Further, antioxidant capacity in the serum of goats exposed to Cd was reduced. We identified CKM and spermidine as potential protein and metabolic markers, respectively, of early Cd toxicity in the goat. This study details approaches for the early diagnosis and prevention of Cd-poisoned goats.
Deriving Surface Water Storage and Curve Numbers from Rainfall–Runoff Relationships in Conventional and Minimum Tillage Systems in Gwanda, Zimbabwe
Authors: Mupangwa Walter , Ncube Bongani , Chipindu Lovemore , Nyagumbo Isaiah , Denga-Mupangwa Clementine
Published: August 2023

Soil water availability is one of the major constraints limiting crop productivity under semi-arid conditions in sub-Saharan Africa. Crop models are tools that can be used to explain and predict the effect of improved technologies on runoff and soil water availability, and their impact on crop productivity. The study hypothesized that minimum tillage treatments (planting basins and ripper) retain more rainwater and reduce runoff generation compared to conventional tillage treatments in maize-based cropping systems. Runoff plots were established on-farm and surface runoff was collected after each daily rainfall event. Surface water storage and curve number for each conventional and minimum tillage treatment were derived from the runoff and rainfall amounts measured over two growing seasons. Daily rainfall events of 9–76 mm generated runoff in both conventional and minimum tillage treatments. Planting basins retained more rainwater (12–19%) and reduced runoff generation (40–51%) than the conventional and ripper tillage treatments. Runoff generation in the tillage treatments varied with soil texture. Conventional and double ploughing treatments recorded more runoff (11–12%) in loamy sands than in sandy soil. Surface water storage and curve numbers from tillage treatments were consistent with runoff results and with conventional treatments, having higher curve numbers than minimum tillage practices. Conventional and ripper tillage practices have similar runoff potential as demonstrated by their curve numbers generated in this study. Curve numbers of 75–76 for conventional and 72–74 for minimum tillage systems are practical under light-textured soil and a land slope of <2% when conventional and minimum tillage practices are implemented.
Low-Profile Dual-Polarized Antenna Integrated with Horn and Vivaldi Antenna in Millimeter-Wave Band
Authors: Yu Xiaoyan , Li Jianxing , Hu Jianping , Yao Yuan , Li Jianwu , Yan Sen
Published: August 2023

In this paper, a dual-polarized antenna based on a substrate-integrated waveguide (SIW) horn antenna and Vivaldi antenna is proposed. The horizontal polarization (HP) is achieved by using the H-plane SIW horn antenna, while the vertical polarization (VP) is realized by a typical Vivaldi antenna etched on the surface of the SIW horn antenna. In front of the horn aperture, a dielectric lens is designed to optimize impedance matching and enhance directivity. Different feeding structures of the two polarizations are used to enhance the isolation between the two ports. The measured results demonstrate a 20.04–25.5 GHz (23.97%) overlapped dual-polarized impedance bandwidth, and the measured maximum gains of the HP and VP are 5.2 dBi and 8.2 dBi, respectively. A good isolation of 35 dB within the operating band is realized. The proposed dual-polarized antenna meets the demand to transmit and receive signals in two polarization directions simultaneously for wireless communication well.
Induced Sex Reversal in Adult Males of the Protandric Hermaphrodite Centropomus undecimalis Using 17 β-Estradiol: Enhancing Management Strategies for Captive Broodstock
Authors: Contreras-García María de Jesús , Contreras-Sánchez Wilfrido Miguel , Mendoza-Carranza Manuel , Mcdonal-Vera Alejandro , Cruz-Rosado Leonardo
Published: August 2023

The common snook (Centropomus undecimalis) is a protandric hermaphrodite fish that undergoes a sex change during its life cycle. In nature, common snook females develop directly from males shortly after spawning. However, the factors triggering this process remain unknown. This knowledge gap poses challenges for managing the species in captivity. To address this, we conducted a study on sex change induction in three-year-old males using estradiol and evaluated the potential effects of photoperiod manipulation on early maturation. Four treatment groups were employed: (1) fish with estradiol + natural photoperiod; (2) fish without estradiol + natural photoperiod; (3) fish without estradiol + controlled photoperiod; and (4) fish with estradiol + controlled photoperiod. The effectiveness of these treatments was assessed through histological procedures, which allowed for the examination of the fishes’ gonads. Furthermore, the concentration of alkali labile phosphorus in fish plasma was measured and correlated with the histological results. Our findings revealed that administering 2 mg/kg estradiol implants resulted in a remarkable 100% female population within the estradiol-treated groups. No significant effect on fish maturation was observed due to the manipulated photoperiod conditions. This protocol offers improved management strategies for captive broodstock. Firstly, the concentration of estradiol used in this study proved sufficient to induce sex change in this hermaphroditic species, enabling the production of viable females at an early age and smaller size and facilitating easier broodstock manipulation. Secondly, the implementation of the alkali labile phosphorus technique allows for sex identification without the need to sacrifice the fish. In conclusion, our study provides valuable insights into sex change induction and photoperiod manipulation in common snook. The findings contribute to enhanced management practices for captive broodstock. However, further research is needed to explore the underlying mechanisms triggering sex change and to optimize protocols for long-term maintenance and successful reproduction in captivity.
Quantized Control for Local Synchronization of Fractional-Order Neural Networks with Actuator Saturation
Authors: Fan Shuxian , Li Meixuan
Published: August 2023

This brief discusses the use of quantized control with actuator saturation to achieve the local synchronization of master–slave fractional-order neural networks (FONNs). A refined sector condition (RSC) is proposed that addresses the issue of the simultaneous quantizer effects and actuator constraints. The RSC is used in the theoretical analysis of local synchronization in drive-response systems. The analysis employs inequality techniques on the Mittag–Leffler function and fractional-order Lyapunov theory. Additionally, this paper presents two convex optimization algorithms that aim to minimize the actuator’s costs and expand the admissible initial area (AIA). Finally, this paper employs a three-neuron FONN to demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed methods.
Applied Digital Twin Concepts Contributing to Heat Transition in Building, Campus, Neighborhood, and Urban Scale
Authors: Lesnyak Ekaterina , Belkot Tabea , Hurka Johannes , Hörding Jan Philipp , Kuhlmann Lea , Paulau Pavel , Schnabel Marvin , Schönfeldt Patrik , Middelberg Jan
Published: August 2023

The heat transition is a central pillar of the energy transition, aiming to decarbonize and improve the energy efficiency of the heat supply in both the private and industrial sectors. On the one hand, this is achieved by substituting fossil fuels with renewable energy. On the other hand, it involves reducing overall heat consumption and associated transmission and ventilation losses. In addition to refurbishment, digitalization contributes significantly. Despite substantial research on Digital Twins (DTs) for heat transition at different scales, a cross-scale perspective on heat optimization still needs to be developed. In response to this research gap, the present study examines four instances of applied DTs across various scales: building, campus, neighborhood, and urban. The study compares their objectives and conceptual frameworks while also identifying common challenges and potential synergies. The study’s findings indicate that all DT scales face similar data-related challenges, such as gathering, ownership, connectivity, and reliability. Also, hierarchical synergy is identified among the DTs, implying the need for collaboration and exchange. In response to this, the “Wärmewende” data platform, whose objectives and concepts are presented in the paper, promotes research data and knowledge exchange with internal and external stakeholders.
Phenolic Compounds in Wine
Authors: Dias Ricardo , Pérez-Gregorio Rosa
Published: August 2023

Wine is probably the most popular and oldest human beverage [...]
Development and Validation of a Novel In Vitro Joint Testing System for Reproduction of In Vivo Dynamic Muscle Force
Authors: Yang Yangyang , Wang Yufan , Zheng Nan , Cheng Rongshan , Zou Diyang , Zhao Jie , Tsai Tsung-Yuan
Published: August 2023

In vitro biomechanical experiments utilizing cadaveric specimens are one of the most effective methods for rehearsing surgical procedures, testing implants, and guiding postoperative rehabilitation. Applying dynamic physiological muscle force to the specimens is a challenge to reconstructing the environment of bionic mechanics in vivo, which is often ignored in the in vitro experiment. The current work aims to establish a hardware platform and numerical computation methods to reproduce dynamic muscle forces that can be applied to mechanical testing on in vitro specimens. Dynamic muscle loading is simulated through numerical computation, and the inputs of the platform will be derived. Then, the accuracy and robustness of the platform will be evaluated through actual muscle loading tests in vitro. The tests were run on three muscles (gastrocnemius lateralis, the rectus femoris, and the semitendinosus) around the knee joint and the results showed that the platform can accurately reproduce the magnitude of muscle strength (errors range from −6.2% to 1.81%) and changing pattern (goodness-of-fit range coefficient ranges from 0.00 to 0.06) of target muscle forces. The robustness of the platform is mainly manifested in that the platform can still accurately reproduce muscle force after changing the hardware combination. Additionally, the standard deviation of repeated test results is very small (standard ranges of hardware combination 1: 0.34 N~2.79 N vs. hardware combination 2: 0.68 N~2.93 N). Thus, the platform can stably and accurately reproduce muscle forces in vitro, and it has great potential to be applied in the future musculoskeletal loading system.
Palmitic Acid Upregulates CD96 Expression to Mediate Maternal–Foetal Interface Immune Tolerance by Inhibiting Cytotoxic Activity and Promoting Adhesion Function in Human Decidual Natural Killer Cells
Authors: Wang Yingjie , Wang Yun
Published: August 2023

Decidual natural killer cells (dNK cells) are an essential component of the immune cells present at the maternal–foetal interface during early pregnancy, and they play a vital role in various physiological processes. Abnormalities in the ratio or function of dNK cells have been linked to recurrent miscarriages. CD96 has been previously shown to regulate NK cell function in the tumour microenvironment; however, its role and mechanism at the maternal–foetal interface remains unclear. The present study aimed to investigate the immunomodulatory role of CD96 in dNK cells and its function at the maternal–foetal interface. Immunofluorescence staining and flow cytometry were used to detect the expression of cellular markers such as CD96. Furthermore, the secretory function, adhesion-function-related molecules, and cell proliferation markers of CD96+ and CD96− dNK cells were detected using flow cytometry. In addition, we performed cell culture experiments via the magnetic bead sorting of NK cells to detect changes in the expression of the aforementioned functional molecules in dNK cells after the CD96 blockade. Furthermore, we examined the functional characteristics of dNK cells after palmitic acid treatment at a concentration of 10 μM. We also examined the changes in dNK cell function when subjected to the combined effect of palmitic acid and CD96 antagonists. The results indicated that CD96, TIGIT, CD155, and CD112 were highly expressed at the maternal–foetal interface, with dNK cells predominantly expressing CD96, whereas TIGIT was mainly expressed on T cells, and CD155 and CD112 were mainly present in metaphase stromal and trophoblast cells. CD96+ dNK cells displayed low cytotoxic activity and a high adhesion phenotype, which mediated the immunosuppressive effect on dNK cells at the maternal–foetal interface. Palmitic acid upregulated CD96 expression on the surface of dNK cells in the coculture system, inhibiting dNK cell activity and increasing their adhesion molecule expression. CD96 antagonist treatment blocked the inhibitory effect of trophoblasts on dNK cells, resulting in enhanced cytokine secretion and reduced adhesion. The results of this study provide valuable insight into the immunomodulatory role of CD96 in dNK cells and its mechanism at the maternal–foetal interface, particularly in metaphase NK cells. This study sheds light on the mechanisms of immune regulation at the maternal–foetal interface and their implications for the study of recurrent miscarriages of unknown origin.
Nano-Biofertilizer Formulations for Agriculture: A Systematic Review on Recent Advances and Prospective Applications
Authors: Garg Diksha , Sridhar Kandi , Stephen Inbaraj Baskaran , Chawla Prince , Tripathi Manikant , Sharma Minaxi
Published: August 2023

In the twenty-first century, nanotechnology has emerged as a potentially game-changing innovation. Essential minerals are mostly unavailable in modern cropping systems without the application of synthetic fertilizers, which have a serious negative impact on the ecosystem. This review focuses on the coupling of nanoparticles with biofertilizers to function as nano-biofertilizers (NBFs), which may ensure world food security in the face of the rising population. The inoculation of plants with NBFs improves plant development and resistance to stress. Metallic nanoparticles as well as organic components comprising polysaccharide and chitosan may be encapsulated, utilizing microbe-based green synthesis to make NBFs, which circumvents the limitations of conventional chemical fertilizers. The application of NBFs is just getting started, and shows more promise than other approaches for changing conventional farming into high-tech “smart” farming. This study used bibliographic analysis using Web of Science to find relevant papers on “nano biofertilizers”, “plants”, and “agriculture”. These subjects have received a lot of attention in the literature, as shown by the co-citation patterns of these publications. The novel use of nanotechnology in agriculture is explored in this research work, which makes use of the unique characteristics of nanoscale materials to address urgent concerns including nutrient delivery, crop protection, and sustainable farming methods. This study attempts to fill in some of the gaps in our knowledge by discussing the formulation, fabrication, and characterization of NBFs, as well as elucidating the mechanisms by which NBFs interact with plants and how this benefits the ability of the plant to withstand biotic and abiotic stress brought about by climate change. This review also addresses recent developments and future directions in farming using NBF formulations in the field.
How to Naturally Support the Immune System in Inflammation—Essential Oils as Immune Boosters
Authors: Grazul Magdalena , Kwiatkowski Paweł , Hartman Kacper , Kilanowicz Anna , Sienkiewicz Monika
Published: August 2023

Efficient functionality of the immune system is needed to fight against the development of infectious diseases, including, among others, serious recurrent chronic infections. Research has shown that many modern common diseases, such as inflammatory bowel diseases and cardiovascular diseases, e.g., thromboembolism, cancer, obesity, or depression, are connected with inflammatory processes. Therefore, new, good stimulators of the immune system’s response are sought. They include synthetic compounds as well as biological preparations such as lipopolysaccharides, enzymes, bacterial metabolites, and secondary metabolites of plants, demonstrating a multidirectional effect. Essential oils are characterized by many invaluable activities, including antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunostimulating. Essential oils may stimulate the immune system via the utilization of their constituents, such as antibodies, cytokines, and dendritic cells. Some essential oils may stimulate the proliferation of immune-competent cells, including polymorphonuclear leukocytes, macrophages, dendritic cells, natural killer cells, and B and T lymphocytes. This review is focused on the ability of essential oils to affect the immune system. It is also possible that essential oil components positively interact with recommended anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial drugs. Thus, there is a need to explore possible synergies between essential oils and their active ingredients for medical use.
Fault Diagnosis in Analog Circuits Using Swarm Intelligence
Authors: Nedjah Nadia , Galindo Jalber Dinelli Luna , Mourelle Luiza de Macedo , Oliveira Fernanda Duarte Vilela Reis de
Published: August 2023

Open or short-circuit faults, as well as discrete parameter faults, are the most commonly used models in the simulation prior to testing methodology. However, since analog circuits exhibit continuous responses to input signals, faults in specific circuit elements may not fully capture all potential component faults. Consequently, diagnosing faults in analog circuits requires three key aspects: identifying faulty components, determining faulty element values, and considering circuit tolerance constraints. To tackle this problem, a methodology is proposed and implemented for fault diagnosis using swarm intelligence. The investigated optimization techniques are Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) and the Bat Algorithm (BA). In this methodology, the nonlinear equations of the tested circuit are employed to calculate its parameters. The primary objective is to identify the specific circuit component that could potentially exhibit the fault by comparing the responses obtained from the actual circuit and the responses obtained through the optimization process. Two circuits are used as case studies to evaluate the performance of the proposed methodologies: the Tow–Thomas Biquad filter (case study 1) and the Butterworth filter (case study 2). The proposed methodologies are able to identify or at least reduce the number of possible faulty components. Four main performance metrics are extracted: accuracy, precision, sensitivity, and specificity. The BA technique demonstrates superior performance by utilizing the maximum combination of accessible nodes in the tested circuit, with an average accuracy of 95.5%, while PSO achieved only 93.9%. Additionally, the BA technique outperforms in terms of execution time, with an average time reduction of 7.95% reduction for the faultless circuit and an 8.12% reduction for the faulty cases. Compared to the machine-learning-based approach, using BA with the proposed methodology achieves similar accuracy rates but does not require any datasets nor any time-demanding training to proceed with circuit diagnostic.
Altered Metabolic Networks in Mesial Temporal Lobe Epilepsy with Focal to Bilateral Seizures
Authors: Guo Zhihao , Mo Jiajie , Zhang Jianguo , Hu Wenhan , Zhang Chao , Wang Xiu , Zhao Baotian , Zhang Kai
Published: August 2023

This study was designed to identify whether the metabolic network changes in mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (MTLE) patients with focal to bilateral tonic-clonic seizures (FBTCS) differ from changes in patients without FBTCS. This retrospective analysis enrolled 30 healthy controls and 54 total MTLE patients, of whom 27 had FBTCS. Fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) data and graph theoretical analyses were used to examine metabolic connectivity. The differences in metabolic networks between the three groups were compared. Significant changes in both local and global network topology were evident in FBTCS+ patients as compared to healthy controls, with a lower assortative coefficient and altered betweenness centrality in 15 brain regions. While global network measures did not differ significantly when comparing FBTCS− patients to healthy controls, alterations in betweenness centrality were evident in 13 brain regions. Significantly altered betweenness centrality was also observed in four brain regions when comparing patients with and without FBTCS. The study revealed greater metabolic network abnormalities in MTLE patients with FBTCS as compared to FBTCS− patients, indicating the existence of distinct epileptogenic networks. These findings can provide insight into the pathophysiological basis of FBTCS.
Molecular and Clinical Characteristics of Different Toxicity Rates in Anti-CD19 Chimeric Antigen Receptor T Cells: Real-World Experience
Authors: Gavriilaki E. , Mallouri D. , Bousiou Z. , Demosthenous C. , Vardi A. , Dolgyras P. , Batsis I. , Stroggyli E. , Karvouni P. , Masmanidou M. , Gavriilaki M. , Bouinta A. , Bitsianis S. , Kapravelos N. , Bitzani M. , Vasileiadou G. , Yannaki E. , Sotiropoulos D. , Papagiannopoulos S. , Kazis D. , Kimiskidis V. , Anagnostopoulos A. , Sakellari I.
Published: August 2023

Commercially available anti-CD19 chimeric antigen receptor T cells (CARΤ cells) have offered long-term survival to a constantly expanding patient population. Given that novel toxicities including cytokine release syndrome (CRS) and neurotoxicity (ICANS) have been observed, we aimed to document the safety and toxicity of this treatment in a real-world study. We enrolled 31 adult patients referred to our center for CAR T therapy. Tisagenlecleucel was infused in 12 patients, axicabtagene ciloleucel in 14, and brexucabtagene autoleucel in 5. Cytokine release syndrome was noted in 26 patients while neurotoxicity was observed in 7. Tocilizumab was administered for CRS in 18 patients, along with short-term, low-dose steroid administration in one patient who developed grade III CRS and, subsequently, grade I ICANS. High-dose steroids, along with anakinra and siltuximab, were administered in only two MCL patients. With a median follow-up time of 13.4 months, nine patients were then in CR. The progression-free (PFS) and overall survival (OS) rates were 41.2% and 88.1% at one year, respectively. MCL diagnosis, which coincides with the administration of brexucabtagene autoleucel, was the only factor to be independently associated with poor OS (p < 0.001); meanwhile, increased LDH independently predicted PFS (p = 0.027).In addition, CRP at day 14 was associated with a poor OS (p = 0.001). Therefore, our real-world experience confirmed that commercial CAR T therapy can be administered with minimal toxicity.
Effect of Local Adjuvants Following Curettage of Benign and Intermediate Tumours of Bone: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Smolle Maria Anna , Roessl Veronika , Leithner Andreas
Published: August 2023

Local adjuvants are used upon intralesional resection of benign/intermediate bone tumours, aiming at reducing the local recurrence (LR) rate. However, it is under debate whether, when and which local adjuvants should be used. This PRISMA-guideline based systematic review aimed to analyse studies reporting on the role of adjuvants in benign/intermediate bone tumours. All original articles published between January 1995 and April 2020 were potentially eligible. Of 344 studies identified, 58 met the final inclusion criteria and were further analysed. Articles were screened for adjuvant and tumour type, follow-up period, surgical treatment, and development of LR. Differences in LR rates were analysed using chi-squared tests. Altogether, 3316 cases (10 different tumour entities) were analysed. Overall, 32 different therapeutic approaches were identified. The most common were curettage combined with high-speed burr (n = 774; 23.3%) and high-speed burr only (n = 620; 18.7%). The LR rate for studies with a minimum follow-up of 24 months (n = 30; 51.7%) was 12.5% (185/1483), with the highest rate found in GCT (16.7%; 144/861). In comparison to a combination of curettage, any adjuvant and PMMA, the sole application of curettage and high-speed burr (p = 0.015) reduced the LR rate in GCT. The overall complication rate was 9.6% (263/2732), which was most commonly attributable to postoperative fracture (n = 68) and osteoarthritis of an adjacent joint during follow-up (n = 62). A variety of adjuvants treatment options are reported in the literature. However, the most important step remains to be thorough curettage, ideally combined with high-speed burring.
Extracellular Vesicle MicroRNAs in Heart Failure: Pathophysiological Mediators and Therapeutic Targets
Authors: Tian Changhai , Ziegler Jessica N. , Zucker Irving H.
Published: August 2023

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are emerging mediators of intracellular and inter-organ communications in cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), especially in the pathogenesis of heart failure through the transference of EV-containing bioactive substances. microRNAs (miRNAs) are contained in EV cargo and are involved in the progression of heart failure. Over the past several years, a growing body of evidence has suggested that the biogenesis of miRNAs and EVs is tightly regulated, and the sorting of miRNAs into EVs is highly selective and tightly controlled. Extracellular miRNAs, particularly circulating EV-miRNAs, have shown promising potential as prognostic and diagnostic biomarkers for heart failure and as therapeutic targets. In this review, we summarize the latest progress concerning the role of EV-miRNAs in HF and their application in a therapeutic strategy development for heart failure.
An Investigation of Iodovanadinite Wasteforms for the Immobilisation of Radio-Iodine and Technetium
Authors: Bailey Daniel J. , Johnstone Erik V. , Stennett Martin C. , Corkhill Claire L. , Hyatt Neil C.
Published: August 2023

99Tc and 129I are two long-lived, highly soluble and mobile fission products that pose a long-term hazard. A proposed wasteform for the disposal of radio-iodine is iodovanadinite (Pb5(VO4)3I), an apatite-structured vanadate. In this investigation, a suite of potential iodovanadinite wasteforms designed for the co-disposal of Tc and I or the sole disposal of I were synthesised via hot isostatic pressing (with Mo as a surrogate for Tc). It was found that direct synthesis from oxide and iodide precursors was possible using hot isostatic pressing (HIPing). Increasing overpressure during HIPing was found to improve the density of the final product. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analyses indicated that the use of AgI as the source of iodine affected the formation of the target iodovanadinite phase and produced unfavourable phase assemblages. Here, we report the direct synthesis of Pb5(VO4)3I in a single step by hot isostatic pressing.
Axonal Protection by Oral Nicotinamide Riboside Treatment with Upregulated AMPK Phosphorylation in a Rat Glaucomatous Degeneration Model
Authors: Arizono Ibuki , Fujita Naoki , Tsukahara Chihiro , Sase Kana , Sekine Reio , Jujo Tatsuya , Otsubo Mizuki , Tokuda Naoto , Kitaoka Yasushi
Published: August 2023

Nicotinamide riboside (NR), a precursor of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), has been studied to support human health against metabolic stress, cardiovascular disease, and neurodegenerative disease. In the present study, we investigated the effects of oral NR on axonal damage in a rat ocular hypertension model. Intraocular pressure (IOP) elevation was induced by laser irradiation and then the rats received oral NR of 1000 mg/kg/day daily. IOP elevation was seen 7, 14, and 21 days after laser irradiation compared with the controls. We confirmed that oral NR administration significantly increased NAD+ levels in the retina. After 3-week oral administration of NR, morphometric analysis of optic nerve cross-sections showed that the number of axons was protected compared with that in the untreated ocular hypertension group. Oral NR administration significantly prevented retinal ganglion cell (RGC) fiber loss in retinal flat mounts, as shown by neurofilament immunostaining. Immunoblotting samples from the optic nerves showed that oral NR administration augmented the phosphorylated adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (p-AMPK) level in rats with and without ocular hypertension induction. Immunohistochemical analysis showed that some p-AMPK-immunopositive fibers were colocalized with neurofilament immunoreactivity in the control group, and oral NR administration enhanced p-AMPK immunopositivity. Our findings suggest that oral NR administration protects against glaucomatous RGC axonal degeneration with the possible upregulation of p-AMPK.
Research Progress on the Structural Design and Optimization of Silicon Anodes for Lithium-Ion Batteries: A Mini-Review
Authors: Yu Zhi , Cui Lijiang , Zhong Bo , Qu Guoxing
Published: August 2023

Silicon anodes have been considered one of the most promising anode candidates for the next generation of high-energy density lithium-ion batteries due to the high theoretical specific capacity (4200 mAh g−1) of Si. However, high lithiation capacity endows silicon anodes with severe volume expansion effects during the charge/discharge cycling. The repeated volume expansions not only lead to the pulverization of silicon particles and the separation of electrode materials from the current collector, but also bring rupture/formation of solid electrolyte interface (SEI) and continuous electrolyte consumption, which seriously hinders the commercial application of silicon anodes. Structural design and optimization are the key to improving the electrochemical performances of silicon anodes, which has attracted wide attention and research in recent years. This paper mainly summarizes and compares the latest research progress for the structural design and optimization of silicon anodes.
Star Memristive Neural Network: Dynamics Analysis, Circuit Implementation, and Application in a Color Cryptosystem
Authors: Fu Sen , Yao Zhengjun , Qian Caixia , Wang Xia
Published: August 2023

At present, memristive neural networks with various topological structures have been widely studied. However, the memristive neural network with a star structure has not been investigated yet. In order to investigate the dynamic characteristics of neural networks with a star structure, a star memristive neural network (SMNN) model is proposed in this paper. Firstly, an SMNN model is proposed based on a Hopfield neural network and a flux-controlled memristor. Then, its chaotic dynamics are analyzed by using numerical analysis methods including bifurcation diagrams, Lyapunov exponents, phase plots, Poincaré maps, and basins of attraction. The results show that the SMNN can generate complex dynamical behaviors such as chaos, multi-scroll attractors, and initial boosting behavior. The number of multi-scroll attractors can be changed by adjusting the memristor’s control parameters. And the position of the coexisting chaotic attractors can be changed by switching the memristor’s initial values. Meanwhile, the analog circuit of the SMNN is designed and implemented. The theoretical and numerical results are verified through MULTISIM simulation results. Finally, a color image encryption scheme is designed based on the SMNN. Security performance analysis shows that the designed cryptosystem has good security.
Pore Water and Its Multiple Controlling Effects on Natural Gas Enrichment of the Quaternary Shale in Qaidam Basin, China
Authors: Tang Xianglu , Jiang Zhenxue , Yuan Zhenglian , Jiao Yifan , Lin Caihua , Liu Xiaoxue
Published: August 2023

Quaternary shale gas resources are abundant in the world, but Quaternary shale contains a lot of pore water, which affects the enrichment of shale gas. At present, the controlling effect of pore water on gas enrichment in Quaternary shale is not clear. Taking the Quaternary shale of Qaidam Basin, China as an example, this paper systematically studies the characteristics of pore water in Quaternary shale through X-ray diffraction rock analysis, nuclear magnetic resonance, methane isothermal adsorption and other experiments, and reveals the controlling effect of pore water on shale gas enrichment. The results show that clay shale and silty shale are mainly developed in Quaternary shale. The clay shale is more hydrophilic, and water mainly exists in micropores and mesopores. Silty shale is less hydrophilic, and water mainly exists in mesopores and macropores. Pore water controls the formation of shale gas by the content of potassium and sodium ions, controls the adsorption of shale gas by occupying the adsorption point on the pore surface, controls the flow of shale gas by occupying the pore space, and controls the occurrence of shale gas by forming water film. Therefore, pore water has multiple controlling effects on shale gas enrichment. This achievement is significant in enriching shale gas geological theory and guide shale gas exploration.
Experimental Investigation of Temperature Distribution in a Laminar Boundary Layer over a Heated Flat Plate with Localized Transverse Cold Air Injections
Authors: Siddiqui Muhammad Ehtisham , Melaibari Ammar A. , Butt Fahad Sarfraz
Published: August 2023

This study presents an experimental investigation focused on the interaction between a transverse injection of cold air (blowing) and the boundary layer over a heated flat plate. The flat plate was equipped with a cylindrical coil heater positioned at its center along the flow direction. The constant heat flux was maintained using a variable resistance potentiometer. The flat plate with the heater was mounted inside a subsonic wind tunnel to sustain a constant laminar air flow. The primary objective of this research was to examine the effects of cold air injections through localized holes in the flat plate near the trailing edge on the thermal boundary layer thickness δt(x,Rex,Pr). The thermal boundary layer thickness was measured using K-type thermocouples and PT-100 RTD sensors, which are made to move precise, small distances using a specially constructed traversing mechanism. Cold air was injected using purposefully fabricated metal capillary tubes force-fitted into holes through the hot flat plate. The metal tubes were thermally insulated using class-F insulation, which is used in electric motor windings. The presented work focused on a fixed free-stream velocity and a fixed cold-injection velocity less than the free-stream velocity but for two-variable heat fluxes. The results show that the thermal boundary layer thickness generally increased due to the secondary cold flow.