bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chromosomal Instability in Chronic Myeloid Leukemia: Mechanistic Insights and Effects
Authors: Senapati Jayastu , Sasaki Koji
Published: May 2022

The most recent two decades have seen tremendous progress in the understanding and treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia, a disease defined by the characteristic Philadelphia chromosome and the ensuing BCR::ABL fusion protein. However, the biology of the disease extends beyond the Philadelphia chromosome into a nebulous arena of chromosomal and genetic instability, which makes it a genetically heterogeneous disease. The BCR::ABL oncoprotein creates a fertile backdrop for oxidative damage to the DNA, along with impairment of genetic surveillance and the favoring of imprecise error-prone DNA repair pathways. These factors lead to growing chromosomal instability, manifested as additional chromosomal abnormalities along with other genetic aberrations. This worsens with disease progression to accelerated and blast phase, and modulates responses to tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Treatment options that target the genetic aberrations that mitigate chromosome instability might be a potential area for research in patients with advanced phase CML.
Chemoprevention of Lung Cancer with a Combination of Mitochondria-Targeted Compounds
Authors: Zhang Qi , Xiong Donghai , Pan Jing , Wang Yian , Hardy Micael , Kalyanaraman Balaraman , You Ming
Published: May 2022

Combined treatment targeting mitochondria may improve the efficacy of lung cancer chemoprevention. Here, mitochondria-targeted honokiol (Mito-HNK), an inhibitor of mitochondrial complex I and STAT3 phosphorylation, and mitochondria-targeted lonidamine (Mito-LND), an inhibitor of mitochondrial complexes I/II and AKT/mTOR/p70S6K signaling, were evaluated for their combinational chemopreventive efficacy on mouse lung carcinogenesis. All chemopreventive treatments began one-week post-carcinogen treatment and continued daily for 24 weeks. No evidence of toxicity (including liver toxicity) was detected by monitoring serum levels of alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase enzymes. Mito-HNK or Mito-LND treatment alone reduced tumor load by 56% and 48%, respectively, whereas the combination of Mito-HNK and Mito-LND reduced tumor load by 83%. To understand the potential mechanism(s) of action for the observed combinatorial effects, single-cell RNA sequencing was performed using mouse tumors treated with Mito-HNK, Mito-LND, and their combination. In lung tumor cells, Mito-HNK treatment blocked the expression of genes involved in mitochondrial complex ǀ, oxidative phosphorylation, glycolysis, and STAT3 signaling. Mito-LND inhibited the expression of genes for mitochondrial complexes I/II, oxidative phosphorylation, and AKT/mTOR/p70S6K signaling in lung tumor cells. In addition to these changes, a combination of Mito-HNK with Mito-LND decreased arginine and proline metabolism, N-glycan biosynthesis, and tryptophan metabolism in lung tumor cells. Our results demonstrate that Mito-LND enhanced the antitumor efficacy of Mito-HNK, where both compounds inhibited common targets (oxidative phosphorylation) as well as unique targets for each agent (STAT3 and mTOR signaling). Therefore, the combination of Mito-HNK with Mito-LND may present an effective strategy for lung cancer chemoprevention.
Mutational Activation of the NRF2 Pathway Upregulates Kynureninase Resulting in Tumor Immunosuppression and Poor Outcome in Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Fahrmann Johannes F. , Tanaka Ichidai , Irajizad Ehsan , Mao Xiangying , Dennison Jennifer B. , Murage Eunice , Casabar Julian , Mayo Jeffrey , Peng Qian , Celiktas Muge , Vykoukal Jody V. , Park Soyoung , Taguchi Ayumu , Delgado Oliver , Tripathi Satyendra C. , Katayama Hiroyuki , Soto Luisa Maren Solis , Rodriguez-Canales Jaime , Behrens Carmen , Wistuba Ignacio , Hanash Samir , Ostrin Edwin J.
Published: May 2022

Activation of the NRF2 pathway through gain-of-function mutations or loss-of-function of its suppressor KEAP1 is a frequent finding in lung cancer. NRF2 activation has been reported to alter the tumor microenvironment. Here, we demonstrated that NRF2 alters tryptophan metabolism through the kynurenine pathway that is associated with a tumor-promoting, immune suppressed microenvironment. Specifically, proteomic profiles of 47 lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) cell lines (11 KEAP1 mutant and 36 KEAP1 wild-type) revealed the tryptophan-kynurenine enzyme kynureninase (KYNU) as a top overexpressed protein associated with activated NRF2. The siRNA-mediated knockdown of NFE2L2, the gene encoding for NRF2, or activation of the NRF2 pathway through siRNA-mediated knockdown of KEAP1 or via chemical induction with the NRF2-activator CDDO-Me confirmed that NRF2 is a regulator of KYNU expression in LUAD. Metabolomic analyses confirmed KYNU to be enzymatically functional. Analysis of multiple independent gene expression datasets of LUAD, as well as a LUAD tumor microarray demonstrated that elevated KYNU was associated with immunosuppression, including potent induction of T-regulatory cells, increased levels of PD1 and PD-L1, and resulted in poorer survival. Our findings indicate a novel mechanism of NRF2 tumoral immunosuppression through upregulation of KYNU.
Current Therapeutic Landscape and Safety Roadmap for Targeting the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor in Inflammatory Gastrointestinal Indications
Authors: Faber Samantha , Lahoti Tejas , Taylor Ewan , Lewis Lauren , Sapiro Jessica , Toledo Sales Vicencia , Dragan Yvonne , Jeffy Brandon
Published: May 2022

Target modulation of the AhR for inflammatory gastrointestinal (GI) conditions holds great promise but also the potential for safety liabilities both within and beyond the GI tract. The ubiquitous expression of the AhR across mammalian tissues coupled with its role in diverse signaling pathways makes development of a “clean” AhR therapeutically challenging. Ligand promiscuity and diversity in context-specific AhR activation further complicates targeting the AhR for drug development due to limitations surrounding clinical translatability. Despite these concerns, several approaches to target the AhR have been explored such as small molecules, microbials, PROTACs, and oligonucleotide-based approaches. These various chemical modalities are not without safety liabilities and require unique de-risking strategies to parse out toxicities. Collectively, these programs can benefit from in silico and in vitro methodologies that investigate specific AhR pathway activation and have the potential to implement thresholding parameters to categorize AhR ligands as “high” or “low” risk for sustained AhR activation. Exploration into transcriptomic signatures for AhR safety assessment, incorporation of physiologically-relevant in vitro model systems, and investigation into chronic activation of the AhR by structurally diverse ligands will help address gaps in our understanding regarding AhR-dependent toxicities. Here, we review the role of the AhR within the GI tract, novel therapeutic modality approaches to target the AhR, key AhR-dependent safety liabilities, and relevant strategies that can be implemented to address drug safety concerns. Together, this review discusses the emerging therapeutic landscape of modalities targeting the AhR for inflammatory GI indications and offers a safety roadmap for AhR drug development.
The Dually Localized EF-Hand Domain-Containing Protein TgEFP1 Regulates the Lytic Cycle of Toxoplasma gondii
Authors: Dave Noopur , LaFavers Kaice , Arrizabalaga Gustavo
Published: May 2022

The propagation of the obligate intracellular parasite Toxoplasma gondii is tightly regulated by calcium signaling. However, the mechanisms by which calcium homeostasis and fluxes are regulated in this human pathogen are not fully understood. To identify Toxoplasma’s calcium homeostasis network, we have characterized a novel EF-hand domain-containing protein, which we have named TgEFP1. We have determined that TgEFP1 localizes to a previously described compartment known as the plant-like vacuole or the endosomal-like compartment (PLV/ELC), which harbors several proteins related to ionic regulation. Interestingly, partial permeabilization techniques showed that TgEFP1 is also secreted into the parasitophorous vacuole (PV), within which the parasite divides. Ultrastructure expansion microscopy confirmed the unusual dual localization of TgEFP1 at the PLV/ELC and the PV. Furthermore, we determined that the localization of TgEFP1 to the PV, but not to the PLV/ELC, is affected by disruption of Golgi-dependent transport with Brefeldin A. Knockout of TgEFP1 results in faster propagation in tissue culture, hypersensitivity to calcium ionophore-induced egress, and premature natural egress. Thus, our work has revealed an interplay between the PV and the PLV/ELC and a role for TgEFP1 in the regulation of calcium-dependent events.
FBP2—A New Player in Regulation of Motility of Mitochondria and Stability of Microtubules in Cardiomyocytes
Authors: Pietras Łukasz , Stefanik Ewa , Rakus Dariusz , Gizak Agnieszka
Published: May 2022

Recently, we have shown that the physiological roles of a multifunctional protein fructose 1,6-bisphosphatase 2 (FBP2, also called muscle FBP) depend on the oligomeric state of the protein. Here, we present several lines of evidence that in HL-1 cardiomyocytes, a forced, chemically induced reduction in the FBP2 dimer-tetramer ratio that imitates AMP and NAD+ action and restricts FBP2-mitochondria interaction, results in an increase in Tau phosphorylation, augmentation of FBP2-Tau and FBP2-MAP1B interactions, disturbance of tubulin network, marked reduction in the speed of mitochondrial trafficking and increase in mitophagy. These results not only highlight the significance of oligomerization for the regulation of FBP2 physiological role in the cell, but they also demonstrate a novel, important cellular function of this multitasking protein—a function that might be crucial for processes that take place during physiological and pathological cardiac remodeling, and during the onset of diseases which are rooted in the destabilization of MT and/or mitochondrial network dynamics.
Advances in Electrochemical Techniques for the Detection and Analysis of Genetically Modified Organisms: An Analysis Based on Bibliometrics
Authors: Zheng Yuhong , Karimi-Maleh Hassan , Fu Li
Published: May 2022

Since the first successful transgenic plants obtained in 1983, dozens of plants have been tested. On the one hand, genetically modified plants solve the problems of agricultural production. However, due to exogenous genes of transgenic plants, such as its seeds or pollen drift, diffusion between populations will likely lead to superweeds or affect the original traits. The detection technology of transgenic plants and their products have received considerable attention. Electrochemical sensing technology is a fast, low-cost, and portable analysis technology. This review interprets the application of electrochemical technology in the analysis and detection of transgenic products through bibliometrics. A total of 83 research articles were analyzed, spanning 2001 to 2021. We described the different stages in the development history of the subject and the contributions of countries and institutions to the topic. Although there were more annual publications in some years, there was no explosive growth in any period. The lack of breakthroughs in this technology is a significant factor in the lack of experts from other fields cross-examining the subject. Through keyword co-occurrence analysis, different research directions on this topic were discussed. The use of nanomaterials with excellent electrical conductivity allows for more sensitive detection of GM crops by electrochemical sensors. Furthermore, co-citation analysis was used to interpret the most popular reports on the topic. In the end, we predict the future development of this topic according to the analysis results.
Cognitive Profiles of Adolescent Inpatients with Substance Use Disorder
Authors: Becker Angelika Beate Christiane , Lüken Luisa Marie , Kelker Lea , Holtmann Martin , Daseking Monika , Legenbauer Tanja
Published: May 2022

The prevalence of substance abuse is high during adolescence, and several studies have linked the use of alcohol and cannabis in adolescence to different cognitive impairments. To investigate whether specific cognitive deficits can be observed in adolescents with substance use disorder (SUD), we compared the cognitive profiles of inpatient adolescents diagnosed with SUD to a control group matched for sex, age and educational status. The inpatient adolescents received diagnoses of cannabis use disorder, alcohol use disorder or both. We compared the WISC-V profiles of 22 inpatients (45.5% female, Mage: 14.5; SD: 0.8) and the WAIS-IV profiles of 27 inpatients (44.4% female, Mage: 17.1; SD: 0.9) to 49 matched control participants with no diagnosed SUD. At the time of testing, participants were hospitalized for treatment of their SUD and were abstinent for a period of at least 6 weeks. To gain greater power, we jointly analyzed the Verbal Comprehension Index, Working Memory Index, Processing Speed Index and Full Scale IQ as assessed by WISC-V and WAIS-IV. The clinical group performed significantly worse than the control group on all the above indices. When only the group of inpatients was observed, in a model with the factors sex, educational status, presence of a comorbid diagnosis of depression and the number of comorbid diagnoses, only the factor educational status was significantly associated with the Full Scale IQ, whereas the factors sex and a comorbid diagnosis of depression in this group were associated with the Processing Speed Index. The results show that adolescents diagnosed with SUD (cannabis and/or alcohol) display broad cognitive impairments after 6 weeks of abstinence. Future research is required to further explore the role of comorbid diagnoses.
Numerical Simulation of the Tension–Compression Behavior of Tie Connections in Brick Masonry Walls
Authors: Ortega Javier , Mendes Nuno , Vasconcelos Graça
Published: May 2022

Brick masonry veneer walls connected to infill walls inserted in a reinforced concrete (RC) frame are a common constructive system in Portugal. The stability of the veneer wall is ensured by ties that make the connection with the masonry infill walls. These ties enable the transferring of out-of-plane loads to the main structure due to wind, and particularly due to earthquakes. However, the characterization of the seismic behavior of these tie connections is an insufficiently explored topic. The present paper shows a numerical investigation that aims to simulate experimental results of tension and compression tests performed on masonry prisms connected by means of steel ties. The main objective of the present research is to obtain a better understanding of the complex structural behavior of this specific construction system to then develop simplified numerical tools to be used in engineering practice for the seismic design and retrofitting of brick masonry veneer walls. The numerical results match well the experimental ones, and the validated approach can be used in the future to carry out parametric analyses to evaluate the influence of material and geometric properties of the tie and masonry, as well as the type of action and construction details.
Assessment of the Diagnostic Performance of a Novel SARS-CoV-2 Antigen Sealing Tube Test Strip (Colloidal Gold) as Point-of-Care Surveillance Test
Authors: Medoro Alessandro , Davinelli Sergio , Voccola Serena , Cardinale Gaetano , Passarella Daniela , Marziliano Nicola , Intrieri Mariano
Published: May 2022

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variant outbreaks have highlighted the need of antigen-detecting rapid diagnostic tests (Ag-RDTs) that can be used at the point-of-care (POC). Although many Ag-RDTs have been approved for SARS-CoV-2 detection, studies demonstrating the clinical performance of Ag-RDTs against variants of concern, especially the new Omicron variant, are limited. The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of the AMAZING COVID-19 Antigen Sealing Tube Test Strip (Colloidal Gold) in 584 early symptomatic and asymptomatic participants (age range 0–90 years). The performance of this Ag-RDT was assessed by comparing its results with reverse transcription RT-PCR (rRT-PCR). One hundred twenty positive samples were also analyzed with rRT-PCR to discriminate Omicron and Delta/Kappa variants (72.50% Omicron; 27.50% Delta/Kappa). Overall, the Ag-RDT showed high positive and negative percent values of 92.52% (95% CI, 86.61–95.95%) and 98.05% (95% CI, 96.41–98.95%), respectively, as well as an overall diagnostic accuracy of 96.92% (95% CI, 95.17–98.16%). Taken together, these data indicate that this inexpensive and simple-to-use Ag-RDT presents excellent analytical performance and can reliably detect Omicron and Delta/Kappa variants.
Pneumonia Classification from X-ray Images with Inception-V3 and Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Mujahid Muhammad , Rustam Furqan , Álvarez Roberto , Luis Vidal Mazón Juan , Díez Isabel de la Torre , Ashraf Imran
Published: May 2022

Pneumonia is one of the leading causes of death in both infants and elderly people, with approximately 4 million deaths each year. It may be a virus, bacterial, or fungal, depending on the contagious pathogen that damages the lung’s tiny air sacs (alveoli). Patients with underlying disorders such as asthma, a weakened immune system, hospitalized babies, and older persons on ventilators are all at risk, particularly if pneumonia is not detected early. Despite the existing approaches for its diagnosis, low accuracy and efficiency require further research for more accurate systems. This study is a similar endeavor for the detection of pneumonia by the use of X-ray images. The dataset is preprocessed to make it suitable for transfer learning tasks. Different pre-trained convolutional neural network (CNN) variants are utilized, including VGG16, Inception-v3, and ResNet50. Ensembles are made by incorporating CNN with Inception-V3, VGG-16, and ResNet50. Besides the common evaluation metrics, the performance of the pre-trained and ensemble deep learning models is measured with Cohen’s kappa as well as the area under the curve (AUC). Experimental results show that Inception-V3 with CNN attained the highest accuracy and recall score of 99.29% and 99.73%, respectively.
Reanimation of the Smile with Neuro-Vascular Anastomosed Gracilis Muscle: A Case Series
Authors: Abing Helen , Pick Carina , Steffens Tabea , Sharma Jenny , Klußmann Jens , Grosheva Maria
Published: May 2022

Background: The aim of our manuscript was to evaluate the time course of clinical and electromyographical (EMG) reinnervation after the reanimation of the smile using a gracilis muscle transplant which is reinnervated with the masseteric nerve. Methods: We present a case series of five patients with a longstanding peripheral facial palsy, who underwent a reanimation of the lower face using a gracilis muscle transplant with masseteric nerve reinnervation from June 2019 to October 2020. Trial-specific follow-up examinations were carried out every three months using clinical assessment and EMG, up to 12 months after the surgery. The grading was carried out using the House–Brackmann scale (HB), the Stennert Index, and a self-designed Likert-like scale for graft reinnervation and smile excursion. Results: The surgery was feasible in all of the patients. The reanimation was performed under general anesthesia in an inpatient setting. Postoperative complications which resulted in prolonged hospitalization occurred in two of the five patients. All of the patients showed a preoperative flaccid facial palsy. The first single reinnervation potentials were detected 3.1 ± 0.1 months after surgery. After 5.6 (±1.4) months, in three (3/5) patients, clear reinnervation patterns were present. Clinically, the patients obtained symmetry of the face at rest after 5.6 (±1.4) months, and could spontaneously smile without the co-activation of the jaw after an average time of 10.8 (±1.8) months. All of the patients were able to express a spontaneous emotion-stimulated smile after one year. Conclusion: Micro-neurovascular gracilis muscle transfer reinnervated with a masseteric nerve is a sufficient and reliable rehabilitation technique for the lower face, and is performed as a single-stage surgery. The nerve supply via the masseteric nerve allows the very rapid and strong reinnervation of the graft, and results in a spontaneous smile within 10 months.
COVLIAS 1.0Lesion vs. MedSeg: An Artificial Intelligence Framework for Automated Lesion Segmentation in COVID-19 Lung Computed Tomography Scans
Authors: Suri Jasjit , Agarwal Sushant , Chabert Gian , Carriero Alessandro , Paschè Alessio , Danna Pietro , Saba Luca , Mehmedović Armin , Faa Gavino , Singh Inder , Turk Monika , Chadha Paramjit , Johri Amer , Khanna Narendra , Mavrogeni Sophie , Laird John , Pareek Gyan , Miner Martin , Sobel David , Balestrieri Antonella , Sfikakis Petros , Tsoulfas George , Protogerou Athanasios , Misra Durga , Agarwal Vikas , Kitas George , Teji Jagjit , Al-Maini Mustafa , Dhanjil Surinder , Nicolaides Andrew , Sharma Aditya , Rathore Vijay , Fatemi Mostafa , Alizad Azra , Krishnan Pudukode , Nagy Ferenc , Ruzsa Zoltan , Fouda Mostafa , Naidu Subbaram , Viskovic Klaudija , Kalra Manudeep
Published: May 2022

Background: COVID-19 is a disease with multiple variants, and is quickly spreading throughout the world. It is crucial to identify patients who are suspected of having COVID-19 early, because the vaccine is not readily available in certain parts of the world. Methodology: Lung computed tomography (CT) imaging can be used to diagnose COVID-19 as an alternative to the RT-PCR test in some cases. The occurrence of ground-glass opacities in the lung region is a characteristic of COVID-19 in chest CT scans, and these are daunting to locate and segment manually. The proposed study consists of a combination of solo deep learning (DL) and hybrid DL (HDL) models to tackle the lesion location and segmentation more quickly. One DL and four HDL models—namely, PSPNet, VGG-SegNet, ResNet-SegNet, VGG-UNet, and ResNet-UNet—were trained by an expert radiologist. The training scheme adopted a fivefold cross-validation strategy on a cohort of 3000 images selected from a set of 40 COVID-19-positive individuals. Results: The proposed variability study uses tracings from two trained radiologists as part of the validation. Five artificial intelligence (AI) models were benchmarked against MedSeg. The best AI model, ResNet-UNet, was superior to MedSeg by 9% and 15% for Dice and Jaccard, respectively, when compared against MD 1, and by 4% and 8%, respectively, when compared against MD 2. Statistical tests—namely, the Mann–Whitney test, paired t-test, and Wilcoxon test—demonstrated its stability and reliability, with p < 0.0001. The online system for each slice was <1 s. Conclusions: The AI models reliably located and segmented COVID-19 lesions in CT scans. The COVLIAS 1.0Lesion lesion locator passed the intervariability test.
Deep Learning-Based Reconstruction vs. Iterative Reconstruction for Quality of Low-Dose Head-and-Neck CT Angiography with Different Tube-Voltage Protocols in Emergency-Department Patients
Authors: Lenfant Marc , Comby Pierre-Olivier , Guillen Kevin , Galissot Felix , Haioun Karim , Thay Anthony , Chevallier Olivier , Ricolfi Frédéric , Loffroy Romaric
Published: May 2022

Objective: To compare the image quality of computed tomography angiography of the supra-aortic arteries (CTSA) at different tube voltages in low doses settings with deep learning-based image reconstruction (DLR) vs. hybrid iterative reconstruction (H-IR). Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 102 patients who underwent CTSA systematically reconstructed with both DLR and H-IR. We assessed the image quality both quantitatively and qualitatively at 11 arterial segmental levels and 3 regional levels. Radiation-dose parameters were recorded and the effective dose was calculated. Eighty-six patients were eligible for analysis Of these patients, 27 were imaged with 120 kVp, 30 with 100 kVp, and 29 with 80 kVp. Results: The effective dose in 120 kVp, 100 kVp and 80 kVp was 1.5 ± 0.4 mSv, 1.1 ± 0.3 mSv and 0.68 ± 0.1 mSv, respectively (p < 0.01). Comparing 80 kVp + DLR vs. 120 and 100 kVp + H-IR CT scans, the mean overall arterial attenuation was about 64% and 34% higher (625.9 ± 118.5 HU vs. 382.3 ± 98.6 HU and 468 ± 118.5 HU; p < 0.01) without a significant difference in terms of image noise (17.7 ± 4.9 HU vs. 17.5 ± 5.2; p = 0.7 and 18.1 ± 5.4; p = 0.3) and signal-to-ratio increased by 59% and 33%, respectively (37.9 ± 12.3 vs. 23.8 ± 9.7 and 28.4 ± 12.5). This protocol also provided superior image quality in terms of qualitative parameters, compared to standard-kVp protocols with H-IR. Highest subjective image-quality grades for vascular segments close to the aorta were obtained with the 100 kVp + DLR protocol. Conclusions: DLR significantly reduced image noise and improved the overall image quality of CTSA with both low and standard tube voltages and at all vascular segments. CT that was acquired with 80 kVp and reconstructed with DLR yielded better overall image quality compared to higher kVp values with H-IR, while reducing the radiation dose by half, but it has limitations for arteries that are close to the aortic arch.
Total-Ionization-Dose Radiation Effects and Hardening Techniques of a Mixed-Signal Spike Neural Network in 180 nm SOI-Pavlov Process
Authors: Liu Zhen , Li Bo , Quan Jiale , Luo Jiajun
Published: May 2022

A mixed-signal spiking neural network (SNN) chip is presented, and its radiation effect-Total Ionizing Dose (TID) was studied. The chip was fabricated in a 180 nm silicon-on-insulator (SOI) integration process with an area of 3.75 mm2; the total doses were set at 300 krad (Si), 500 krad (Si), and 1 Mrad (Si). The TID radiation experimental results showed that the average spike frequency and spike amplitude of the output signal of the SNN circuit decreased after the irradiation because of the leakage current caused by the charge trapped in the buried oxide. Sensitive nodes were identified through the analysis of the critical path of the circuit, and guidance toward a radiation-hardening neuron circuit was proposed. The proposed circuit maintains good robustness with firing frequency variation.
Complementary Multi-Band Dual Polarization Conversion Metasurface and Its RCS Reduction Application
Authors: Li Fengan , You Baiqiang
Published: May 2022

In this paper, we present a metasurface composed of complementary units that can realize orthogonal linear and linear-to-circular polarization conversion in multi-band. Linear polarization conversion has seven high-conversion frequency bands: 9.1–9.7 GHz, 15.6–17.6 GHz, 19.4–19.7 GHz, 21.2–23.1 GHz, 23.5–23.8 GHz, 26.2 GHz, and 27.9 GHz. Linear-to-circular polarization conversion also has seven frequency bands with axial ratios (ARs) less than 3 dB: 8.9–9.0 GHz, 9.9–14.7 GHz, 19.1–19.3 GHz, 23.2–23.35 GHz, 23.4 GHz, 24.1–25.4 GHz, and 27.2–27.8 GHz, with the generation of multiple bands extended by the combination of complementary units. Then, we utilize the combined polarization conversion unit’s mirror placement to form a 4 × 4 array to realize the phase difference cancellation of the reflective field, giving the metasurface the radar cross section (RCS) reduction function and the dual-band 10-dB monostatic RCS reduction bandwidth: 8.9–9.7 GHz and 15.5–26.1 GHz. The measured and simulated results were essentially identical. Because the design uses the complementary units to form an array to expand the polarization conversion frequency bands, it provides a novel idea for future designs and can be applied to multiple microwave frequency bands.
Passive Small Direct Alcohol Fuel Cells for Low-Power Portable Applications: Assessment Based on Innovative Increments since 2018
Authors: de Sá Maria H. , Pinto Alexandra M. F. R. , Oliveira Vânia B.
Published: May 2022

Passive small direct alcohol fuel cells (PS-DAFCs) are compact, standalone devices capable of electrochemically converting the chemical energy in the fuel/alcohol into electricity, with low pollutant emissions and high energy density. Thus, PS-DAFCs are extremely attractive as sustainable/green off-grid low-power sources (milliwatts to watts), considered as alternatives to batteries for small/portable electric and electronic devices. PS-DAFCs benefit from long life operation and low cost, assuring an efficient and stable supply of inherent non-polluting electricity. This review aims to assess innovations on PS-DAFC technology, as well as discuss the challenges and R&D needs covered on practical examples reported in the scientific literature, since 2018. Hence, this compilation intends to be a guidance tool to researchers, in order to help PS-DAFCs overcome the barriers to a broad market introduction and consequently become prime renewable energy converters and autonomous micropower generators. Only by translating research discoveries into the scale-up and commercialization process of the technology can the best balance between the economic and technical issues such as efficiency, reliability, and durability be achieved. In turn, this will certainly play a crucial role in determining how PS-DAFCs can meet pressing sustainable energy needs.
A Framework to Analyze the Requirements of a Multiport Megawatt-Level Charging Station for Heavy-Duty Electric Vehicles
Authors: Mishra Partha , Miller Eric , Santhanagopalan Shriram , Bennion Kevin , Meintz Andrew
Published: May 2022

Widespread adoption of heavy-duty (HD) electric vehicles (EVs) will soon necessitate the use of megawatt (MW)-scale charging stations to charge high-capacity HD EV battery packs. Such a station design needs to anticipate possible station traffic, average and peak power demand, and charging/wait time targets to improve throughput and maximize revenue-generating operations. High-power direct current charging is an attractive candidate for MW-scale charging stations at the time of this study, but there are no precedents for such a station design for HD vehicles. We present a modeling and data analysis framework to elucidate the dependencies of a MW-scale station operation on vehicle traffic data and station design parameters and how that impacts vehicle electrification. This framework integrates an agent-based charging station model with vehicle schedules obtained through real-world vehicle telemetry data analysis to explore the station design and operation space. A case study applies this framework to a Class 8 vehicle telemetry dataset and uses Monte Carlo simulations to explore various design considerations for MW-scale charging stations and EV battery technologies. The results show a direct correlation between optimal charging station placement and major traffic corridors such as cities with ports, e.g., Los Angeles and Oakland. Corresponding parametric sweeps reveal that while good quality of service can be achieved with a mix of 1.2-megawatt and 100-kilowatt chargers, the resultant fast charging time of 35–40 min will need higher charging power to reach parity with refueling times.
Energy and Environment—Towards Greenhouse Gas Mitigation: Novelty in Heterogeneous Catalysis
Authors: Khan Wasim Ullah
Published: May 2022

Climate change, a consequence of global warming, is a global issue resulting due to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions [...]
Numerical Assessment on the Influence of Engine Calibration Parameters on Innovative Piston Bowls Designed for Light-Duty Diesel Engines
Authors: Millo Federico , Piano Andrea , Roggio Salvatore , Pesce Francesco C. , Vassallo Alberto , Bianco Andrea
Published: May 2022

The optimization of the piston bowl design has been shown to have a great potential for air–fuel mixing improvement, leading to significant fuel consumption and pollutant emissions reductions for diesel engines. With this aim, a conventional re-entrant bowl for a 1.6 L light-duty diesel engine was compared with two innovative piston designs: a stepped-lip bowl and a radial-bumps bowl. The potential benefits of these innovative bowls were assessed through 3D-CFD simulations, featuring a calibrated spray model and detailed chemistry. To analyse the impact of these innovative designs, two different engine operating conditions were scrutinized, corresponding to the rated power and a partial load, respectively. Under the rated power engine operating condition, a start of injection sensitivity was then carried out to assess the optimal spray–wall interaction. Results highlighted that, thanks to optimal injection phasing, faster mixing-controlled combustion could be reached with both the innovative designs. Moreover, the requirements in terms of swirl were also investigated, and a higher swirl ratio was found to be necessary to improve the mixing process, especially for the radial-bumps design. Finally, at part-load operating conditions, different exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) rates were analysed for two injection pressure levels. The stepped-lip and radial-bumps bowls highlighted reduced indicated specific fuel consumption (ISFC) and soot emissions values over different rail pressure levels, guaranteeing NOx control thanks to the higher EGR tolerance compared with the re-entrant bowl. The results suggested the great potential of the investigated innovative bowls for improving efficiency and reducing emissions, thus paving the way for further possible optimization through the combination of these designs.
Modeling Differential Pressure of Diesel Particulate Filters in Marine Engines
Authors: Jang Jaehwan , Min Byungchae , Ahn Seongyool , Kim Hyunjun , Na Sangkyung , Kang Jeongho , Roh Heehwan , Choi Gyungmin
Published: May 2022

The captured particulate matter (PM) in diesel particulate filters (DPF) must be periodically burned to maintain the performance and durability of the engine. The amount of PM in the filter must be monitored to determine a suitable regeneration period. In this study, the modeling parameters of the DPF were optimized using experimental data to determine a suitable regeneration period for the DPF for marine diesel engines. The differential pressure over the exhaust gas mass flow rate and temperature were measured using a fresh DPF. The modeling parameters of Darcy’s law were optimized using the experimental data. Finally, the model parameters were validated using differential pressure data obtained from a DPF containing PM. The proposed model, which is a function of the gas flow rate, temperature, and amount of collected PM, was developed to simulate the differential pressure of DPFs and shows potential for application in the development of regeneration logic for marine DPFs.
Transcriptome Sequencing Analysis Reveals Dynamic Changes in Major Biological Functions during the Early Development of Clearhead Icefish, Protosalanx chinensis
Authors: Tang Xuemei , Jiang Shulun , Wang Henglin , Zhou Yanfeng , Peng Fei , Zhang Xizhao , Zhou Yifan , Guo Shiyue , You Yang
Published: May 2022

Early development, when many important developmental events occur, is a critical period for fish. However, research on the early development of clearhead icefish is very limited, especially in molecular research. In this study, we aimed to explore the dynamic changes in the biological functions of five key periods in clearhead icefish early development, namely the YL (embryonic), PM (first day after hatching), KK (fourth day after hatching), LC (seventh day after hatching), and SL (tenth day after hatching) stages, through transcriptome sequencing and different analysis strategies. A trend expression analysis and an enrichment analysis revealed that the expression ofgenes encoding G protein-coupled receptors and their ligands, i.e., prss1_2_3, pomc, npy, npb, sst, rln3, crh, gh, and prl that are associated with digestion and feeding regulation gradually increased during early development. In addition, a weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) showed that eleven modules were significantly associated with early development, among which nine modules were significantly positively correlated. Through the enrichment analysis and hub gene identification results of these nine modules, it was found that the pathways related to eye, bone, and heart development were significantly enriched in the YL stage, and the ccnd2, seh1l, kdm6a, arf4, and ankrd28 genes that are associated with cell proliferation and differentiation played important roles in these developmental processes; the pak3, dlx3, dgat2, and tas1r1 genes that are associated with jaw and tooth development, TG (triacylglycerol) synthesis, and umami amino acid receptors were identified as hub genes for the PM stage; the pathways associated with aerobic metabolism and unsaturated fatty acid synthesis were significantly enriched in the KK stage, with the foxk, slc13a2_3_5, ndufa5, and lsc2 genes playing important roles; the pathways related to visual perception were significantly enriched in the LC stage; and the bile acid biosynthetic and serine-type peptidase activity pathways were significantly enriched in the SL stage. These results provide a more detailed understanding of the processes of early development of clearhead icefish.
Application of Dual Metabarcoding Platforms for the Meso- and Macrozooplankton Taxa in the Ross Sea
Authors: Lee Ji-Hyun , La Hyoung Sul , Kim Jeong-Hoon , Son Wuju , Park Hyun , Kim Young-Mog , Kim Hyun-Woo
Published: May 2022

Meso- and macrozooplankton play crucial roles in the trophic web and the biological carbon pump in the ocean by transferring energy from lower to higher trophic levels and vertically exporting carbon from the surface to the deep ocean and seabed. In this study, zooplankton community structures in the Ross Sea, Antarctica, were analyzed using metabarcoding methods. Both regular barcode (RB) (using a PacBio Sequel system) and mini barcode (MB) (using the Illumina MiSeq platform) methods were utilized. As the result of a combination of the two bioinformatic pipelines used in the RB, 55 reliable haplotypes were obtained from the pooled zooplankton net samples, whereas 183 amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) were isolated from the MB metabarcoding analyses of 14 individual stations. Among these, 39 (70.9%) and 125 (90.6%) showed higher than 99% sequence identity to the database, indicating that there were sufficient reference sequences to employ metabarcoding analysis—except for several taxa, including small-sized copepods, cnidarians, and pneumodermatids. A high degree of shared taxa showed that both metabarcoding analyses were feasible for use in the analysis of zooplankton assemblages in the Ross Sea. However, RB would be more useful for the construction of a reference database due to its relatively high cost, whereas MB would be more economic for ecological surveys due to its relatively low cost (albeit, only if reference sequences were well documented using RB). Zooplankton assemblages were highly diverse in each sample site, presumably due to the narrow covered volumes of the vertical net-towed samples from polynyas in the Ross Sea. As metabarcoding data accumulate, we will gain better insights into zooplankton communities and their ecological implications in the Ross Sea.
Adaptation and Psychometric Evidence of the ARABIC Version of the Diabetes Self-Management Questionnaire (A-DSMQ)
Authors: Kaddech Nabil , Guelmami Noomen , Bonsaksen Tore , Doggui Radhouene , Beji Chiraz , El Ati Jalila
Published: May 2022

(1) Background: Diabetic patients must engage in self-care practices in order to maintain optimal glycemic control, hence reducing the likelihood of developing complications, and enhance the overall quality of their lives. The Diabetes Self-care Management Questionnaire (DSMQ) is a tool for assessing self-management habits that may be used to predict glycemic control in people with diabetes. However, no Arabic language version of the instrument has been found. Therefore, we adapted an Arabic language version of the instrument in Tunisia. The purpose of the current research aimed to assess the psychometric features of the Tunisian version of the DSMQ in patients with type 2 diabetes. (2) Method: Two samples including both genders, one exploratory (n = 208, mean age 53.2 ± 8.3) and one confirmatory (n = 441, mean age 53.4 ± 7.4), completed an adapted Arabic language version of the DSMQ, a sociodemographic questionnaire and information about their HbA1C levels. (3) Results: The exploratory factor analysis revealed that the 15 items of the A-DSMQ fit well with the data. Likewise, the alpha coefficients for the A-DSMQ factors were above 0.80: for “Glucose Management” (GM), “Dietary Control” (DC), “Physical Activity” (PA), and “Heath-Care Use” (HU). The fit indices for the CFA were good, and the four-factor solution was confirmed. The Average Variance Extracted values and Fornell–Larcker criterion established the convergent and discriminant validity, respectively. The concurrent validity of the tool was established through the statistically significant negative relationships between the A-DSMQ factors and HbA1C, in addition to its positive association with the practice of physical activity measured by the IPAQ. (4) Conclusions: Given the high EFA factor loadings, the CFA fit indices, the correlation matrix, the sensitivity analysis, the convergent validity, and the excellent internal consistency of the A-DSMQ, it can be concluded that the A-DSMQ is an effective psychometric tool for diabetes self-management in Tunisia.
Relation between Burnout and Sleep Problems in Nurses: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis
Authors: Membrive-Jiménez María José , Gómez-Urquiza José Luis , Suleiman-Martos Nora , Velando-Soriano Almudena , Ariza Tania , De la Fuente-Solana Emilia Inmaculada , Cañadas-De la Fuente Guillermo A.
Published: May 2022

Burnout can affect nurses’ sleep quality. The aim of this study was to analyze the relationship between burnout syndrome and sleep problems in nurses. A systematic review with meta-analysis was performed. PubMed, CINAHL and Scopus databases were used. Some of the inclusion criteria were quantitative studies, in which the levels of burnout and sleep disorders were investigated in a sample of nurses using validated scales. A total of 12 studies were included. Sociodemographic variables did not influence the relation between burnout and sleep problems, except for being female. The environment and workplace violence, together with psychological traits and shifts, affect the probability of developing burnout and insomnia. The meta-analysis sample was n = 1127 nurses. The effect size of the correlation between burnout and sleep disorders was r = 0.39 (95% CI 0.29–0.48) with p < 0.001, indicating that the higher the level of burnout in nurses, the greater the presence of sleep disorders. The positive correlation between burnout and sleep disorders is a problem that must be addressed to improve the health of nurses. Developing turnicity strategies, using warmer lights in hospital units during night shifts and eliminating the fixed night shift could improve nurses’ working conditions.
Gender Differences in Factors Associated with the Total Delay in Treatment of Pulmonary Tuberculosis Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study in Selangor, Malaysia
Authors: Chee Cheong Kee , Mohd Ghazali Sumarni , Md Zamri Ahmed Syahmi Syafiq , Cheong Yoon Ling , Md. Iderus Nuur Hafizah , Nagalingam Tharmarajah , Ruslan Qistina , Omar Mohd Azahadi , Yusoff Ahmad Faudzi
Published: May 2022

Background: Gender plays a significant role in health-care-seeking behavior for many diseases. Delays in seeking treatment, diagnosis, and treatment for pulmonary tuberculosis (pTB) may increase the risk of transmission in the community and lead to poorer treatment outcomes and mortality. This study explores the differences in factors associated with the total delay in treatment of male and female pTB patients in Selangor, Malaysia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from January 2017 to December 2017. Newly diagnosed pTB patients (≥18 years) were recruited from selected government health clinics and hospitals in Selangor during the specified study period. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect information on sociodemographic characteristics, lifestyle, knowledge about pTB, stigma, distance to the nearest health facility, and chronology of pTB symptom onset, diagnosis, and treatment. The total delay was measured as the length of time between the onset of pTB symptoms to treatment initiation. Factors significantly associated with a longer total delay among men and women were identified using binary logistic regression. Results: A total of 732 patients (61.5% men, 38.5% women) were enrolled in the study. The median total delay was 60 days. Men who have weight loss as a symptom (AOR: 1.63, 95%CI: 1.10–2.41) and are employed (1.89, 1.15–3.11) were more likely to have a longer total delay, while those who know others who have had pTB (0.64, 0.43–0.96) were less likely to have a longer total delay. On the other hand, among women, having a stigma towards TB (0.52, 0.32–0.84) and obtaining a pTB diagnosis at the first medical consultation (0.48, 0.29–0.79) were associated with a shorter total delay. Conclusion: Factors associated with the total delay in pTB treatment were different for male and female pTB patients. Increasing awareness of pTB symptoms and the importance of seeking early medical consultation and a prompt diagnosis among the general public may reduce total delay in pTB treatment.
Awareness of Medical Doctors in Pusat Perubatan Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia on Diagnostic Radiological Examination Related Radiation Exposure in the Pediatric Population
Authors: Ng Chee Guan , Manan Hanani Abdul , Mohd Zaki Faizah , Zakaria Rozman
Published: May 2022

Background: When exposed to equal radiation doses, the risks for children and adolescents are more significant than for adults. Children grow quickly, and their cells are more sensitive to radiation. After radiation exposure, children have a higher risk of developing malignancies such as leukemia, thyroid abnormalities, and various types of cancers. The healthcare professionals’ (in this context referring to medical doctors at all levels) awareness of imaging modalities associated with ionizing radiation is essential to ensure optimal patient management of cooperation in dealing with radiation exposure. Therefore, the present study is aimed to evaluate the awareness of healthcare professionals on medical imaging-related radiation exposure in the pediatric population in our center, Pusat Perubatan Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among healthcare professionals using self-administered validated questionnaires in a university hospital for a duration of seven months. Healthcare professionals of all levels participated in this survey. Results: A total of 145 healthcare professionals participated in this study. More than half of the respondents are house officers, 57.2% (n = 83). Results indicated that only 6 out of 145 healthcare professionals who participated in this survey had attended a radiation protection course. This survey showed that 37.2% of the respondents were unaware that chest radiographs would expose patients to ionizing radiation. Finally, results also indicated that senior doctors (21 out of 24 participants) showed better awareness of radiation protection knowledge. Conclusions: In general, healthcare professionals in our institution are inadequate in awareness of medical radiation exposure, particularly among house officers. However, the awareness of radiation safety and exposure improves with the number of years of clinical practice. We propose that some younger healthcare professionals do not take radiation safety seriously. Moreover, we would like to suggest all healthcare professionals must attend a radiation safety course, as we expect this will improve patient outcomes.