bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Supervisory Strategies for Overage Construction Workers: Considering the Contractor’s Risk Perception
Authors: Qin Zhongfu , Zheng Ziyang
Published: April 2024

Overage construction workers have received widespread attention due to the higher safety risk. The balance of interests among the contractor, supervisor, and regulator forms a game, whose dynamics are tightly linked to the contractor’s risk perception. This study aims to construct a tripartite evolutionary game model with risk perception integrated, thus proposing tailored supervisory strategies for supervisors and regulators. Unlike the traditional scale-based approach, a behavior-based method is developed to measure the contractor’s risk perception, which improves the interpretability of results and avoids complex questionnaire surveys. The simulation results reveal a clear correlation between the contractor’s risk perception and behavior. It is recommended that supervisors increase penalties and the initial possibility of Rigorous Inspection properly, and regulators may consider enhancing credit-based future returns and losses. Notably, certain measures may not be applicable to all contractors. Hence, supervisors and regulators should identify their risk perception before adopting supervisory strategies.
Perioperative and Oncological Outcomes of Percutaneous Radiofrequency Ablation versus Partial Nephrectomy for cT1a Renal Cancers: A Retrospective Study on Groups with Similar Clinical Characteristics
Authors: Jasinski Milosz , Wisniewski Przemyslaw , Bielinska Marta , Siekiera Jerzy , Kamecki Krzysztof , Salagierski Maciej
Published: April 2024

Over the recent years, progress in imaging techniques has led to an increased detection of kidney tumours, including small renal masses. While surgery is still the standard of care, there is a growing interest in minimally invasive methods. Ultrasound (US)-guided percutaneous ablation is particularly attractive because it is a safe and relatively simple procedure. In this study, we investigated the results of US-guided percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and partial nephrectomy (PN) in the treatment of cT1a renal cancers. Between August 2016 and February 2022, 271 patients with renal tumours underwent percutaneous RFA as initial treatment in our institution. In the same period, 396 patients with renal tumours underwent surgical tumour excision. For the purpose of this study, only patients with confirmed renal cancer with matched age and tumour characteristics (size, location) were selected for both groups. Thus, a group of 44 PN patients and 41 RFA patients were formed with the same qualification criteria for both groups. Parameters such as procedure length, blood loss, hospital stay, analgesics used, and pre- and post-procedural serum creatinine were compared between these groups. Patients followed up with contrast-enhanced CT. There was no significant difference in age, tumour size, tumour location, and creatinine levels between these groups. All procedures were generally well tolerated. During a median follow-up of 28 months, two cases of recurrence/residual disease were found in each group. The overall survival was 100% in both groups, and all patients were disease-free at the end of observation. Percutaneous RFA was associated with a significantly shorter procedure length and hospital stay, lower blood loss, and lower analgesics used than PN. In the selected group of renal cancer patients, US-guided percutaneous RFA was associated with a shorter hospital stay, less analgesics used, and a shorter procedure length than PN, without differences in the oncological results or kidney function.
Lysine Methyltransferase 9 (KMT9) Is an Actionable Target in Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer
Authors: Totonji Sainab , Ramos-Triguero Anna , Willmann Dominica , Sum Manuela , Urban Sylvia , Bauer Helena , Rieder Astrid , Wang Sheng , Greschik Holger , Metzger Eric , Schüle Roland
Published: April 2024

Novel treatment modalities are imperative for the challenging management of muscle-invasive and metastatic BC to improve patient survival rates. The recently identified KMT9, an obligate heterodimer composed of KMT9α and KMT9β, regulates the growth of various types of tumors such as prostate, lung, and colon cancer. While the overexpression of KMT9α was previously observed to be associated with aggressive basal-like MIBC in an analysis of patients’ tissue samples, a potential functional role of KMT9 in this type of cancer has not been investigated to date. In this study, we show that KMT9 regulates proliferation, migration, and invasion of various MIBC cell lines with different genetic mutations. KMT9α depletion results in the differential expression of genes regulating the cell cycle, cell adhesion, and migration. Differentially expressed genes include oncogenes such as EGFR and AKT1 as well as mediators of cell adhesion or migration such as DAG1 and ITGA6. Reduced cell proliferation upon KMT9α depletion is also observed in Pten/Trp53 knockout bladder tumor organoids, which cannot be rescued with an enzymatically inactive KMT9α mutant. In accordance with the idea that the catalytic activity of KMT9 is required for the control of cellular processes in MIBC, a recently developed small-molecule inhibitor of KMT9 (KMI169) also impairs cancer cell proliferation. Since KMT9α depletion also restricts the growth of xenografts in mice, our data suggest that KMT9 is an actionable novel therapeutic target for the treatment of MIBC.
A Prospective Study on Deep Inspiration Breath Hold Thoracic Radiation Therapy Guided by Bronchoscopically Implanted Electromagnetic Transponders
Authors: Meng Yuzhong , Mankuzhy Nikhil , Chawla Mohit , Lee Robert , Yorke Ellen , Zhang Zhigang , Gelb Emily , Lim Seng , Cuaron John , Wu Abraham , Simone Charles , Gelblum Daphna , Lovelock Dale , Harris Wendy , Rimner Andreas
Published: April 2024

Background: Electromagnetic transponders bronchoscopically implanted near the tumor can be used to monitor deep inspiration breath hold (DIBH) for thoracic radiation therapy (RT). The feasibility and safety of this approach require further study. Methods: We enrolled patients with primary lung cancer or lung metastases. Three transponders were implanted near the tumor, followed by simulation with DIBH, free breathing, and 4D-CT as backup. The initial gating window for treatment was ±5 mm; in a second cohort, the window was incrementally reduced to determine the smallest feasible gating window. The primary endpoint was feasibility, defined as completion of RT using transponder-guided DIBH. Patients were followed for assessment of transponder- and RT-related toxicity. Results: We enrolled 48 patients (35 with primary lung cancer and 13 with lung metastases). The median distance of transponders to tumor was 1.6 cm (IQR 0.6–2.8 cm). RT delivery ranged from 3 to 35 fractions. Transponder-guided DIBH was feasible in all but two patients (96% feasible), where it failed because the distance between the transponders and the antenna was >19 cm. Among the remaining 46 patients, 6 were treated prone to keep the transponders within 19 cm of the antenna, and 40 were treated supine. The smallest feasible gating window was identified as ±3 mm. Thirty-nine (85%) patients completed one year of follow-up. Toxicities at least possibly related to transponders or the implantation procedure were grade 2 in six patients (six incidences, cough and hemoptysis), grade 3 in three patients (five incidences, cough, dyspnea, pneumonia, and supraventricular tachycardia), and grade 4 pneumonia in one patient (occurring a few days after implantation but recovered fully and completed RT). Toxicities at least possibly related to RT were grade 2 in 18 patients (41 incidences, most commonly cough, fatigue, and pneumonitis) and grade 3 in four patients (seven incidences, most commonly pneumonia), and no patients had grade 4 or higher toxicity. Conclusions: Bronchoscopically implanted electromagnetic transponder–guided DIBH lung RT is feasible and safe, allowing for precise tumor targeting and reduced normal tissue exposure. Transponder–antenna distance was the most common challenge due to a limited antenna range, which could sometimes be circumvented by prone positioning.
Performance of Traditional and Emerging Water-Treatment Technologies in the Removal of Tetracycline Antibiotics
Authors: Wang Fanjin , Wang Ziyi , Zhao Yue , Zhang Jian
Published: April 2024

Tetracycline antibiotics are widely used in human medical treatment, control of animal disease, and agricultural feed because of their broad spectrum of action, high efficiency, and low cost. The excessive use of antibiotics and arbitrary discharge of antibiotic wastewater have become increasingly serious problems, and the current sewage-treatment process is not ideal for treating water contaminated with tetracycline antibiotics, leading to increasingly prominent antibiotic pollution in water and the imminent need for its removal. In order to understand the necessity of removing tetracycline antibiotics from the water environment, this paper first expounds on their source, harms, and pollution status in oceans and in surface water, groundwater, wastewater, and drinking water. It next introduces the research status of conventional treatment methods such as adsorption methods, biological methods, and physical and chemical methods, then introduces new treatment methods such as advanced oxidation methods and comprehensive treatment technology in sewage plants. The degradation effects, mechanisms of action, and challenges of these methods were summarized. The advantages and disadvantages of each treatment technology are compared. Finally, potential future processing technologies are discussed.
Mechanochemical Synthesis of Praziquantel Hemihydrate in the Presence of Five Solvents with Different Water Miscibility
Authors: D’Abbrunzo Ilenia , Voinovich Dario , Perissutti Beatrice
Published: April 2024

In this study, we report the mechanochemical synthesis of praziquantel hemihydrate in the presence of five solvents with different water miscibility. The commercially available praziquantel Form A (a racemic anhydrate structure) was ground in the presence of several water–solvent mixtures using two grinding procedures (i.e., direct liquid-assisted grinding and neat grinding plus liquid-assisted grinding). Five organic solvents (i.e., acetic acid, 2-pyrrolidone, ethanol, ethyl acetate and hexane) were chosen considering their different miscibility with water and their capability to form solvates with praziquantel (documented for acetic acid and 2-pyrrolidone). The results suggested that the use of a second solvent has a detrimental effect on the formation of the hemihydrate. The inclusion of water in the solid is even worse in the case of water-miscible solvents, probably due to the favored interactions between the liquids. In fact, hexane is the only solvent permitting the mechanochemical crystallization of praziquantel hemihydrate to a limited extent. Importantly, interconversion studies between the hydrate/monosolvate/anhydrous forms revealed a preferential inclusion of solvents over water in the crystal lattice when using acetic acid or 2-pyrrolidone and complete dehydration of the hemihydrate and conversion in the most thermodynamically stable polymorph A of praziquantel with ethanol, ethyl acetate and hexane.
Competing Magnetocrystalline and Shape Anisotropy in Thin Nanoparticles
Authors: Kuźma Dominika , Pastukh Oleksandr , Zieliński Piotr
Published: April 2024

Micromagnetic computations were performed to predict the magnetisation maps in thin elliptically shaped nanoparticles under a variable external magnetic field. Two materials were compared as the constituents of the nanoparticles: permalloy as an example of an isotropic magnet and cobalt, i.e., a hard magnetic material marked with a single easy axis. The interplay of the shape and magnetocrystalline anisotropy gives rise to a variety of switching scenarios, which may be of interest in designing memory storage devices. A fairly periodic shape-induced superlattice-like spin configuration occurs when the shape and magnetocrystalline easy axes are orthogonal. Possible applications as magnonic devices are discussed.
Outstanding Aggregation of the Atlantic Brisingid Hymenodiscus coronata (Sars, 1871) (Echinodermata: Asteroidea) in the Strait of Sicily
Authors: Toma Margherita , Giova Antonio , Bo Marzia , Canese Simonepietro , Enrichetti Francesco , Romeo Teresa , Salvati Eva , Greco Silvestro
Published: April 2024

The sea star Hymenodiscus coronata is the only Mediterranean representative of the deep-sea order Brisingida. In the North-eastern Atlantic Ocean, this species is known to create dense aggregations, while, in the Mediterranean basin, it is generally reported as scattered individuals. Through the analysis of the video footage obtained from an extensive ROV campaign carried out in the northern Strait of Sicily in 2021, over 2850 specimens were counted. The specimens, observed between 310 m and 714 m depth, showed a large variability in size and number of arms. It was noted that 17% of the specimens displayed the peculiar “sail position”, with all the arms extended vertically in the water column, possibly increasing the filtration rate. Almost the totality of the individuals was noted on soft bottoms, in accordance with the ecological preferences of the species. The density of H. coronata in each site varied between 0.01 and 0.81 individuals m−2, with the highest densities reported in sites characterized by large muddy areas among rocky outcrops and turbulent hydrodynamic conditions. Although the trawling areas exploited in 2021 did not seem to interfere with the presence of H. coronata in the study area, a precautionary approach should be assumed to protect the largest ever reported Mediterranean aggregation of this poorly known species.
Irradiation-Hardening Model of TiZrHfNbMo0.1 Refractory High-Entropy Alloys
Authors: Fan Yujun , Wang Xuejiao , Li Yangyang , Lan Aidong , Qiao Junwei
Published: April 2024

In order to find more excellent structural materials resistant to radiation damage, high-entropy alloys (HEAs) have been developed due to their characteristics of limited point defect diffusion such as lattice distortion and slow diffusion. Specially, refractory high-entropy alloys (RHEAs) that can adapt to a high-temperature environment are badly needed. In this study, TiZrHfNbMo0.1 RHEAs are selected for irradiation and nanoindentation experiments. We combined the mechanistic model for the depth-dependent hardness of ion-irradiated metals and the introduction of the scale factor f to modify the irradiation-hardening model in order to better describe the nanoindentation indentation process in the irradiated layer. Finally, it can be found that, with the increase in irradiation dose, a more serious lattice distortion caused by a higher defect density limits the expansion of the plastic zone.
Design of 200 kW Cryogenic Induction Motor for Liquefied Natural Gas Emergency Pump
Authors: Hong Kyung-Pyo , Lee Ju
Published: April 2024

This paper presents a design study focusing on the thermal safety of an induction motor integrated with a pump unit, which operates submerged in liquefied natural gas (LNG) in the LNG tanks of LNG carrier ships ranging from 150 K to 200 K cubic meters (CBM). In this study, we carried out the electromagnetic design of the induction motor and verified the thermal safety against a temperature increase due to losses during the motor operation through thermal fluid analysis, taking into account the discharge flow of the emergency pump and the air gap of the motor. In the electromagnetic design, the resistivity of the stator winding copper conductors and the rotor aluminum bars, which act as important design constants for the rated operating and starting characteristics of the induction motor in cryogenic temperature environments, reflects the characteristic of linearly changing with the temperature. In cryogenic environments, the reduction in the resistance of the rotor bars of the induction motor leads to a decrease in the starting torque characteristics. Therefore, the shape optimization design of the rotor bar was performed to improve the starting torque characteristics, and 2D electromagnetic analysis was performed on the magnetic flux density distribution and magnetic saturation using Ansys Electromagnetics 16.0. After the electromagnetic design, a 3D thermal flow analysis was conducted using Ansys Fluent 17.0, considering the stator iron losses, rotor bar losses, stator and rotor iron losses, and stray load losses as heat sources. The flow analysis aimed to analytically verify the thermal safety concerning the vaporization of the LNG flowing through the emergency pump’s discharge flow path and the motor’s internal air gap. The motor was manufactured, and the rated and starting operating characteristics of the motor were measured under LN2 submerged conditions according to the IEEE 112 F1 method, to validate whether the performance characteristics met the specifications’ requirements. Subsequently, the thermal safety of the motor was finally verified through a temperature increase test under LNG submerged conditions after assembling it with the emergency pump.
Optimal Scheduling of Integrated Energy System Considering Hydrogen Blending Gas and Demand Response
Authors: Zheng Zijie , Xiwang Abuduwayiti , Sun Yufeng
Published: April 2024

In the context of carbon neutrality and carbon peaking, in order to achieve low carbon emissions and promote the efficient utilization of wind energy, hydrogen energy as an important energy carrier is proposed to mix hydrogen and natural gas to form hydrogen-enriched compressed natural gas (HCNG). It is also injected into the natural gas pipeline network to achieve the transmission and utilization of hydrogen energy. At the same time, the participation of demand response is considered, the load’s peak and trough periods are adjusted, and the large-scale consumption of renewable energy and the reduction in carbon emissions are achieved. First of all, a fine model of hydrogen production and hydrogen use equipment is established to analyze the impact of adding hydrogen mixing on the economy and the low-carbon property of the system. With green certificates and demand response, the utilization rate of hydrogen energy is improved to further explore the energy utilization rate and emission reduction capacity of the system. Secondly, on the basis of modeling, the optimal scheduling strategy is proposed with the sum of energy purchase cost, equipment operation cost, carbon emission cost, wind curtailment cost, and green certificate income as the lowest objective function. Considering the constraints such as hydrogen blending ratio and flexible load ratio of the pipeline network, a low-carbon economic scheduling model of hydrogen mixed natural gas was established. The model was linearized and solved by using MATLAB 2021a and CPLEX solver. By comparing different scenarios, the superiority of the model and the effectiveness of the strategy are verified.
Integrated Efficiency of Japan’s 47 Prefectures Incorporating Sustainability Factors
Authors: Ishida Ryo , Goto Mika
Published: April 2024

The purpose of this study is to examine a productive efficiency index that incorporates two new production factors of sustainability—an environmental variable as an undesirable output and a well-being indicator as a desirable output—for 12 years of data from 2007 to 2018 pertaining to 47 prefectures in Japan. This study proposes a combination of a new data envelopment analysis (DEA) intermediate approach with the DEA super-efficiency model to measure the integrated productive efficiency. The approach incorporates CO2 emissions and a well-being indicator into the conventional productivity index. A three-stage analysis is conducted by sequentially adding new factors, CO2 emissions, and a well-being indicator. We also conduct a club convergence analysis of the productive efficiency and observe how clubs are formed, what their characteristics are, and how the efficiency changes over time. Through these approaches, we examine the practicality of the new efficiency measure and discuss regional policy implications. We found that higher labor productivity and carbon productivity in major industries caused increased productive efficiency. Adding sustainability factors to the conventional production factors in efficiency measurement widened the efficiency gap among prefectures.
Stepwise Multi-Objective Parameter Optimization Design of LLC Resonant DC-DC Converter
Authors: Yin Miaomiao , Luo Quanming
Published: April 2024

The LLC resonant converter, which is extensively utilized across various industrial fields, significantly depends on its parameters for performance optimization. This paper establishes a time-domain analytical model for the LLC resonant converter under Pulse Frequency Modulation (PFM) and proposes a multi-objective parameter optimization design method with stepwise constraints. The proposed method limits the resonant capacitor voltage while ensuring that the converter meets the voltage gain requirement and realizes Zero-Voltage Switching (ZVS). The converter’s performance is then optimized with the objective of minimizing the switching frequency range, the resonant inductor current, and the RMS value of the switching current on the secondary side. Compared with the existing methods, the proposed method has the advantages of comprehensive consideration and wide application scenarios. Finally, a 1200 W experimental prototype was fabricated, with experimental results verifying the feasibility of the proposed optimization design method and demonstrating that the prototype’s maximum efficiency reaches 96.54%.
Opportunities to Capitalize on Transylvanian Wood Pastures through Nature-Based Tourism: A Case Study of Viscri Village, Brașov County, Romania
Authors: Vijulie Iuliana , Preda Mihaela , Nita Andreea , Tudoricu Anca
Published: April 2024

European wood-pastures are complex socio-ecological systems, valuable from ecological and cultural perspectives. Over time, they have gone through a decline in area coverage due to overgrazing, abandonment of traditional agricultural practices or the development of intensive agriculture. In Transylvania (Romania), such landscapes are still preserved, but they are very vulnerable. Restoring them and including them in ecotourism circuits could benefit local communities and the environment. In this context, the purpose of the study was to analyze the possibilities for nature-based tourism using the wood-pasture located near Viscri and the respondents’ level of awareness of its economic, social, and environmental importance. The main research methods used were GIS and remote sensing techniques, as well as direct field observations and surveys among local farmers and tourists. The study’s results pointed out the existence of a community-managed wood-pasture, well preserved through traditional agricultural practices and marked by significant biodiversity. Even though the wood-pasture is not yet attracting strong tourist flows, respondents linked it with various and numerous benefits. The leisure activities that respondents participated in while visiting the wood-pasture generated a very high level of satisfaction, as they declared their intentions to revisit and/or recommend it. Although British King Charles III was the one who carried out the promotion of this wood-pasture due to his particular interest in the area, it was still not enough. Therefore, authorities should acknowledge its value for the development of the local community and be more present in supporting nature-based tourism activities.
AutoST-Net: A Spatiotemporal Feature-Driven Approach for Accurate Forest Fire Spread Prediction from Remote Sensing Data
Authors: Chen Xuexue , Tian Ye , Zheng Change , Liu Xiaodong
Published: April 2024

Forest fires, as severe natural disasters, pose significant threats to ecosystems and human societies, and their spread is characterized by constant evolution over time and space. This complexity presents an immense challenge in predicting the course of forest fire spread. Traditional methods of forest fire spread prediction are constrained by their ability to process multidimensional fire-related data, particularly in the integration of spatiotemporal information. To address these limitations and enhance the accuracy of forest fire spread prediction, we proposed the AutoST-Net model. This innovative encoder–decoder architecture combines a three-dimensional Convolutional Neural Network (3DCNN) with a transformer to effectively capture the dynamic local and global spatiotemporal features of forest fire spread. The model also features a specially designed attention mechanism that works to increase predictive precision. Additionally, to effectively guide the firefighting work in the southwestern forest regions of China, we constructed a forest fire spread dataset, including forest fire status, weather conditions, terrain features, and vegetation status based on Google Earth Engine (GEE) and Himawari-8 satellite. On this dataset, compared to the CNN-LSTM combined model, AutoST-Net exhibits performance improvements of 5.06% in MIou and 6.29% in F1-score. These results demonstrate the superior performance of AutoST-Net in the task of forest fire spread prediction from remote sensing images.
Influence of Soil Quality on the Browsing Intensity of Ungulate Herbivores on Tree Species in European Forests
Authors: Madalcho Aklilu Bajigo , Gazda Anna , Wanic Tomasz , Szwagrzyk Jerzy
Published: April 2024

The impact of ungulate browsing on tree saplings has been found to have a negative effect on the regeneration of temperate forests. However, it remains ambiguous whether a relationship exists between browsing intensity and soil quality in natural forests. Therefore, we conducted a study in Roztoczańskie National Park to investigate the relationship between soil quality and browsing intensity for tree saplings. The aim was to gain a better understanding of how soil quality affects the browsing of ungulates on tree species. Baseline data (sapling height, basal diameter, crown length and width, browsed-shoot diameter, and soil samples) were collected from the 22 belt transects established in the permanent research plots. The soil quality index was calculated using physical and chemical soil properties. Twig dry mass was determined using allometric equations. Species relative density and browsing intensity were assessed through field measurements. Relationships between the variables were established using a linear regression model. The results suggest that browsing intensity is influenced by the gradient of the soil quality index and that it varies between tree species. Along the increasing soil quality gradient, tree species’ relative density (p = 0.012) and twig dry mass m−2 (p = 0.005) significantly decreased for A. pseudoplatanus. In contrast, browsing intensity increased significantly with an increasing species relative density for A. pseudoplatanus (p = 0.00) and C. betulus (p = 0.001) and with an increasing twig dry mass for F. sylvatica (p = 0.034) and C. betulus (p = 0.004). Browsing intensity increased significantly with an increasing soil quality index for F. sylvatica (p = 0.027) and decreased significantly for A. pseudoplatanus (p = 0.036). Notably, there was a significant positive relationship between browsing intensity and species relative density and twig dry mass, indicating that ungulate browsing is concentrated where browsing is abundant. These results provide insights that can be used to improve management and conservation strategies to protect tree species vulnerable to ungulate herbivory.
Leveraging Digital Twin Technology for Enhanced Cybersecurity in Cyber–Physical Production Systems
Authors: Jiang Yuning , Wang Wei , Ding Jianguo , Lu Xin , Jing Yanguo
Published: April 2024

The convergence of cyber and physical systems through cyber–physical systems (CPSs) has been integrated into cyber–physical production systems (CPPSs), leading to a paradigm shift toward intelligent manufacturing. Despite the transformative benefits that CPPS provides, its increased connectivity exposes manufacturers to cyber-attacks through exploitable vulnerabilities. This paper presents a novel approach to CPPS security protection by leveraging digital twin (DT) technology to develop a comprehensive security model. This model enhances asset visibility and supports prioritization in mitigating vulnerable components through DT-based virtual tuning, providing quantitative assessment results for effective mitigation. Our proposed DT security model also serves as an advanced simulation environment, facilitating the evaluation of CPPS vulnerabilities across diverse attack scenarios without disrupting physical operations. The practicality and effectiveness of our approach are illustrated through its application in a human–robot collaborative assembly system, demonstrating the potential of DT technology.
Control Unit for Battery Charge Management in Electric Vehicles (EVs)
Authors: Armenta-Deu Carlos , Coulaud Théo
Published: April 2024

This paper describes the design of a control unit for efficient battery charge management in battery electric vehicles (BEVs). The system design aims at controlling the performance of the charging process of dual lithium-ion battery blocks in electric vehicles, with a main battery that powers the vehicle and an auxiliary one for servicing the ancillary equipment. In this paper, we design and analyze the protocol of a control unit that operates and regulates the battery charge in electric vehicles to obtain optimum performance. The so-designed system enhances the battery charge process and protects the main battery from capacity reduction, thus enlarging the driving range of the electric vehicle. We design a specific protocol for an electric circuit that reproduces the structure of the battery charge system of an electric vehicle. The control system improves the efficiency of the auxiliary battery charge by 4.5%. The theoretical simulation matches experimental values in a simulation test by 98.4%.
Comparison of Fecal MicroRNA Isolation Using Various Total RNA Isolation Kits
Authors: Lederer Theresa , Hipler Noam M. , Thon Cosima , Kupcinskas Juozas , Link Alexander
Published: April 2024

Fecal specimens have long been regarded as promising sources for gastrointestinal cancer screening and have, thus, been extensively investigated in biomarker research. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, non-coding RNA molecules involved in regulating various biological processes. They are commonly dysregulated during tumor development and exhibit differential expression in feces. To assess the preanalytical feasibility of fecal miRNA analysis, we systematically compared the performance of commonly used total RNA extraction methods. Fecal samples from healthy subjects were utilized for this evaluation. Various methods, including miRNeasy, Universal, Trizol, RNeasy, and mirVana kits, were employed to isolate total RNA. MiRNA expression analyses were conducted using TaqMan or SYBR Green qRT-PCR for a subset of miRNAs, with externally spiked-in cel-miR-39 used for normalization. Most methods demonstrated similar performance in terms of the total RNA concentration and purity. Externally spiked cel-miR-39 and endogenous miRNAs (RNU6b, miR-16, and miR-21) exhibited comparable concentrations across the different RNA isolation methods, whereas the RNeasy mini kit consistently yielded lower values. Our findings suggest that various isolation methods produce reproducible and comparable miRNA expression results, supporting the potential comparability and translational applicability of miRNA-based biomarker research in the future.
The Impact of Blood Sample Processing on Ribonucleic Acid (RNA) Sequencing
Authors: Liu Zhiyu , Ouyang Tinglan , Yang Yuwei , Sheng Yuqi , Shi Huajuan , Liu Quanjun , Bai Yunfei , Ge Qinyu
Published: April 2024

In gene quantification and expression analysis, issues with sample selection and processing can be serious, as they can easily introduce irrelevant variables and lead to ambiguous results. This study aims to investigate the extent and mechanism of the impact of sample selection and processing on ribonucleic acid (RNA) sequencing. RNA from PBMCs and blood samples was investigated in this study. The integrity of this RNA was measured under different storage times. All the samples underwent high-throughput sequencing for comprehensive evaluation. The differentially expressed genes and their potential functions were analyzed after the samples were placed at room temperature for 0h, 4h and 8h, and different feature changes in these samples were also revealed. The sequencing results showed that the differences in gene expression were higher with an increased storage time, while the total number of genes detected did not change significantly. There were five genes showing gradient patterns over different storage times, all of which were protein-coding genes that had not been mentioned in previous studies. The effect of different storage times on seemingly the same samples was analyzed in this present study. This research, therefore, provides a theoretical basis for the long-term consideration of whether sample processing should be adequately addressed.
Chemical Modifications to Enhance the Drug Properties of a VIP Receptor Antagonist (ANT) Peptide
Authors: Lester Christina , Li Jian-Ming , Passang Tenzin , Wang Yuou , Waller Edmund K. , Blakey Simon B.
Published: April 2024

Antagonist peptides (ANTs) of vasoactive intestinal polypeptide receptors (VIP-Rs) are shown to enhance T cell activation and proliferation in vitro, as well as improving T cell-dependent anti-tumor response in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) murine models. However, peptide therapeutics often suffer from poor metabolic stability and exhibit a short half-life/fast elimination in vivo. In this study, we describe efforts to enhance the drug properties of ANTs via chemical modifications. The lead antagonist (ANT308) is derivatized with the following modifications: N-terminus acetylation, peptide stapling, and PEGylation. Acetylated ANT308 exhibits diminished T cell activation in vitro, indicating that N-terminus conservation is critical for antagonist activity. The replacement of residues 13 and 17 with cysteine to accommodate a chemical staple results in diminished survival using the modified peptide to treat mice with AML. However, the incorporation of the constraint increases survival and reduces tumor burden relative to its unstapled counterpart. Notably, PEGylation has a significant positive effect, with fewer doses of PEGylated ANT308 needed to achieve comparable overall survival and tumor burden in leukemic mice dosed with the parenteral ANT308 peptide, suggesting that polyethylene glycol (PEG) incorporation enhances longevity, and thus the antagonist activity of ANT308.
The OTX2 Gene Induces Tumor Growth and Triggers Leptomeningeal Metastasis by Regulating the mTORC2 Signaling Pathway in Group 3 Medulloblastomas
Authors: Ampudia-Mesias Elisabet , Cameron Charles S. , Yoo Eunjae , Kelly Marcus , Anderson Sarah M. , Manning Riley , Abrahante Lloréns Juan E. , Moertel Christopher L. , Yim Hyungshin , Odde David J. , Saydam Nurten , Saydam Okay
Published: April 2024

Medulloblastoma (MB) encompasses diverse subgroups, and leptomeningeal disease/metastasis (LMD) plays a substantial role in associated fatalities. Despite extensive exploration of canonical genes in MB, the molecular mechanisms underlying LMD and the involvement of the orthodenticle homeobox 2 (OTX2) gene, a key driver in aggressive MB Group 3, remain insufficiently understood. Recognizing OTX2’s pivotal role, we investigated its potential as a catalyst for aggressive cellular behaviors, including migration, invasion, and metastasis. OTX2 overexpression heightened cell growth, motility, and polarization in Group 3 MB cells. Orthotopic implantation of OTX2-overexpressing cells in mice led to reduced median survival, accompanied by the development of spinal cord and brain metastases. Mechanistically, OTX2 acted as a transcriptional activator of the Mechanistic Target of Rapamycin (mTOR) gene’s promoter and the mTORC2 signaling pathway, correlating with upregulated downstream genes that orchestrate cell motility and migration. Knockdown of mTOR mRNA mitigated OTX2-mediated enhancements in cell motility and polarization. Analysis of human MB tumor samples (N = 952) revealed a positive correlation between OTX2 and mTOR mRNA expression, emphasizing the clinical significance of OTX2’s role in the mTORC2 pathway. Our results reveal that OTX2 governs the mTORC2 signaling pathway, instigating LMD in Group 3 MBs and offering insights into potential therapeutic avenues through mTORC2 inhibition.
The Fabrication and Property Characterization of a Ho2YSbO7/Bi2MoO6 Heterojunction Photocatalyst and the Application of the Photodegradation of Diuron under Visible Light Irradiation
Authors: Hao Liang , Luan Jingfei
Published: April 2024

A novel photocatalytic nanomaterial, Ho2YSbO7, was successfully synthesized for the first time using the solvothermal synthesis technique. In addition, a Ho2YSbO7/Bi2MoO6 heterojunction photocatalyst (HBHP) was prepared via the hydrothermal fabrication technique. Extensive characterizations of the synthesized samples were conducted using various instruments, such as an X-ray diffractometer, a Fourier transform infrared spectrometer, a Raman spectrometer, a UV-visible spectrophotometer, an X-ray photoelectron spectrometer, and a transmission electron microscope, as well as X-ray energy dispersive spectroscopy, photoluminescence spectroscopy, a photocurrent test, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy, and electron paramagnetic resonance. The photocatalytic activity of the HBHP was evaluated for the degradation of diuron (DRN) and the mineralization of total organic carbon (TOC) under visible light exposure for 152 min. Remarkable removal efficiencies were achieved, with 99.78% for DRN and 97.19% for TOC. Comparative analysis demonstrated that the HBHP exhibited markedly higher removal efficiencies for DRN compared to Ho2YSbO7, Bi2MoO6, or N-doped TiO2 photocatalyst, with removal efficiencies 1.13 times, 1.21 times, or 2.95 times higher, respectively. Similarly, the HBHP demonstrated significantly higher removal efficiencies for TOC compared to Ho2YSbO7, Bi2MoO6, or N-doped TiO2 photocatalyst, with removal efficiencies 1.17 times, 1.25 times, or 3.39 times higher, respectively. Furthermore, the HBHP demonstrated excellent stability and reusability. The mechanisms which could enhance the photocatalytic activity remarkably and the involvement of the major active species were comprehensively discussed, with superoxide radicals identified as the primary active species, followed by hydroxyl radicals and holes. The results of this study contribute to the advancement of efficient heterostructural materials and offer valuable insights into the development of sustainable remediation strategies for addressing DRN contamination.
Development of an Innovative Biosensor Based on Graphene/PEDOT/Tyrosinase for the Detection of Phenolic Compounds in River Waters
Authors: Bounegru Alexandra Virginia , Iticescu Catalina , Georgescu Lucian P. , Apetrei Constantin
Published: April 2024

Phenolic compounds, originating from industrial, agricultural, and urban sources, can leach into flowing waters, adversely affecting aquatic life, biodiversity, and compromising the quality of drinking water, posing potential health hazards to humans. Thus, monitoring and mitigating the presence of phenolic compounds in flowing waters are essential for preserving ecosystem integrity and safeguarding public health. This study explores the development and performance of an innovative sensor based on screen-printed electrode (SPE) modified with graphene (GPH), poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT), and tyrosinase (Ty), designed for water analysis, focusing on the manufacturing process and the obtained electroanalytical results. The proposed biosensor (SPE/GPH/PEDOT/Ty) was designed to achieve a high level of precision and sensitivity, as well as to allow efficient analytical recoveries. Special attention was given to the manufacturing process and optimization of the modifying elements’ composition. This study highlights the potential of the biosensor as an efficient and reliable solution for water analysis. Modification with graphene, the synthesis and electropolymerization deposition of the PEDOT polymer, and tyrosinase immobilization contributed to obtaining a high-performance and robust biosensor, presenting promising perspectives in monitoring the quality of the aquatic environment. Regarding the electroanalytical experimental results, the detection limits (LODs) obtained with this biosensor are extremely low for all phenolic compounds (8.63 × 10−10 M for catechol, 7.72 × 10−10 M for 3-methoxycatechol, and 9.56 × 10−10 M for 4-methylcatechol), emphasizing its ability to accurately measure even subtle variations in the trace compound parameters. The enhanced sensitivity of the biosensor facilitates detection and quantification in river water samples. Analytical recovery is also an essential aspect, and the biosensor presents consistent and reproducible results. This feature significantly improves the reliability and usefulness of the biosensor in practical applications, making it suitable for monitoring industrial or river water.
DNA G-Quadruplex in NRP1 Promoter Facilitates SARS-CoV-2 Infection
Authors: Gong Pihai , Zhang Rongxin , Xiao Ke , Shu Huiling , Li Xinxiu , Fan Hong , Sun Xiao
Published: April 2024

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection continues to raise concerns worldwide. Numerous host factors involved in SARS-CoV-2 infection have been identified, but the regulatory mechanisms of these host factor remain unclear. Here, we report the role of G-quadruplexes (G4s) located in the host factor promoter region in SARS-CoV-2 infection. Using bioinformatics, biochemical, and biological assays, we provide evidence for the presence of G4 structures in the promoter regions of SARS-CoV-2 host factors NRP1. Specifically, we focus on two representative G4s in the NRP1 promoter and highlight its importance in SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis. The presence of the G4 structure greatly increases NRP1 expression, facilitating SARS-CoV-2 entry into cells. Utilizing published single-cell RNA sequencing data obtained from simulated SARS-CoV-2 infection in human bronchial epithelial cells (HBECs), we found that ciliated cells with high levels of NRP1 are prominently targeted by the virus during infection. Furthermore, our study identifies E2F1 act as a transcription factor that binds to G4s. These findings uncover a previously unknown mechanism underlying SARS-CoV-2 infection and suggest that targeting G4 structures could be a potential strategy for COVID-19 prevention and treatment.
Regulation of Cysteine Homeostasis and Its Effect on Escherichia coli Sensitivity to Ciprofloxacin in LB Medium
Authors: Smirnova Galina , Tyulenev Aleksey , Sutormina Lyubov , Kalashnikova Tatyana , Muzyka Nadezda , Ushakov Vadim , Samoilova Zoya , Oktyabrsky Oleg
Published: April 2024

Cysteine and its derivatives, including H2S, can influence bacterial virulence and sensitivity to antibiotics. In minimal sulfate media, H2S is generated under stress to prevent excess cysteine and, together with incorporation into glutathione and export into the medium, is a mechanism of cysteine homeostasis. Here, we studied the features of cysteine homeostasis in LB medium, where the main source of sulfur is cystine, whose import can create excess cysteine inside cells. We used mutants in the mechanisms of cysteine homeostasis and a set of microbiological and biochemical methods, including the real-time monitoring of sulfide and oxygen, the determination of cysteine and glutathione (GSH), and the expression of the Fur, OxyR, and SOS regulons genes. During normal growth, the parental strain generated H2S when switching respiration to another substrate. The mutations affected the onset time, the intensity and duration of H2S production, cysteine and glutathione levels, bacterial growth and respiration rates, and the induction of defense systems. Exposure to chloramphenicol and high doses of ciprofloxacin increased cysteine content and GSH synthesis. A high inverse relationship between log CFU/mL and bacterial growth rate before ciprofloxacin addition was revealed. The study points to the important role of maintaining cysteine homeostasis during normal growth and antibiotic exposure in LB medium.
Moving toward the Inclusion of Epigenomics in Bacterial Genome Evolution: Perspectives and Challenges
Authors: Passeri Iacopo , Vaccaro Francesca , Mengoni Alessio , Fagorzi Camilla
Published: April 2024

The universality of DNA methylation as an epigenetic regulatory mechanism belongs to all biological kingdoms. However, while eukaryotic systems have been the primary focus of DNA methylation studies, the molecular mechanisms in prokaryotes are less known. Nevertheless, DNA methylation in prokaryotes plays a pivotal role in many cellular processes such as defense systems against exogenous DNA, cell cycle dynamics, and gene expression, including virulence. Thanks to single-molecule DNA sequencing technologies, genome-wide identification of methylated DNA is becoming feasible on a large scale, providing the possibility to investigate more deeply the presence, variability, and roles of DNA methylation. Here, we present an overview of the multifaceted roles of DNA methylation in prokaryotes and suggest research directions and tools which can enable us to better understand the contribution of DNA methylation to prokaryotic genome evolution and adaptation. In particular, we emphasize the need to understand the presence and role of transgenerational inheritance, as well as the impact of epigenomic signatures on adaptation and genome evolution. Research directions and the importance of novel computational tools are underlined.
CrnnCrispr: An Interpretable Deep Learning Method for CRISPR/Cas9 sgRNA On-Target Activity Prediction
Authors: Zhu Wentao , Xie Huanzeng , Chen Yaowen , Zhang Guishan
Published: April 2024

CRISPR/Cas9 is a powerful genome-editing tool in biology, but its wide applications are challenged by a lack of knowledge governing single-guide RNA (sgRNA) activity. Several deep-learning-based methods have been developed for the prediction of on-target activity. However, there is still room for improvement. Here, we proposed a hybrid neural network named CrnnCrispr, which integrates a convolutional neural network and a recurrent neural network for on-target activity prediction. We performed unbiased experiments with four mainstream methods on nine public datasets with varying sample sizes. Additionally, we incorporated a transfer learning strategy to boost the prediction power on small-scale datasets. Our results showed that CrnnCrispr outperformed existing methods in terms of accuracy and generalizability. Finally, we applied a visualization approach to investigate the generalizable nucleotide-position-dependent patterns of sgRNAs for on-target activity, which shows potential in terms of model interpretability and further helps in understanding the principles of sgRNA design.