bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adherence Improves Cooperation in Sequential Social Dilemmas
Authors: Yuan Yuyu , Guo Ting , Zhao Pengqian , Jiang Hongpu
Published: August 2022

Social dilemmas have guided research on mutual cooperation for decades, especially the two-person social dilemma. Most famously, Tit-for-Tat performs very well in tournaments of the Prisoner’s Dilemma. Nevertheless, they treat the options to cooperate or defect only as an atomic action, which cannot satisfy the complexity of the real world. In recent research, these options to cooperate or defect were temporally extended. Here, we propose a novel adherence-based multi-agent reinforcement learning algorithm for achieving cooperation and coordination by rewarding agents who adhere to other agents. The evaluation of adherence is based on counterfactual reasoning. During training, each agent observes the changes in the actions of other agents by replacing its current action, thereby calculating the degree of adherence of other agents to its behavior. Using adherence as an intrinsic reward enables agents to consider the collective, thus promoting cooperation. In addition, the adherence rewards of all agents are calculated in a decentralized way. We experiment in sequential social dilemma environments, and the results demonstrate the potential for the algorithm to enhance cooperation and coordination and significantly increase the scores of the deep RL agents.
Comparison of Methods for Sampling Particulate Emissions from Tires under Different Test Environments
Authors: Hesse David , Feißel Toni , Kunze Miles , Bachmann Eric , Bachmann Thomas , Gramstat Sebastian
Published: August 2022

Traffic-related emissions are strongly criticised by the public because they contribute to climate change and are classified as hazardous to health. Combustion engine emissions have been regulated by limit values for almost three decades. There is currently no legal limit for non-exhaust emissions, which include tire wear particle emissions and resuspension. As a result, the percentage of total vehicle emissions has risen continuously. Some of the particles emitted can be assigned to the size classes of particulate matter (≤10 µm) and are therefore of particular relevance to human health. The literature describes a wide range of concepts for sampling and measuring tire wear particle emissions. Because of the limited number of studies, the mechanisms involved in on-road tests and their influence on the particle formation process, particle transport and the measuring ability can only be described incompletely. The aim of this study is to compare test bench and on-road tests and to assess the influence of selected parameters. The first part describes the processes of particle injection and particle distribution. Based on this, novel concepts for sampling and measurement in the laboratory and in the field are presented. The functionality and the mechanisms acting in each test environment are evaluated on the basis of selected test scenarios. For example, emissions from external sources, the condition of the road surface and the influence of the driver are identified as influencing factors. These analyzes are used to illustrate the complexity and limited reproducibility of on-road measurements, which must be taken into account for future regulations.
A New Discrete Mycorrhiza Optimization Nature-Inspired Algorithm
Authors: Carreon-Ortiz Hector , Valdez Fevrier , Castillo Oscar
Published: August 2022

This paper presents the discrete version of the Mycorrhiza Tree Optimization Algorithm (MTOA), using the Lotka–Volterra Discrete Equation System (LVDES) formed by the Predator–Prey, Cooperative and Competitive Models. The Discrete Mycorrhizal Optimization Algorithm (DMOA) is a stochastic metaheuristic that integrates randomness in its search processes. These algorithms are inspired by nature, specifically by the symbiosis between plant roots and a fungal network called the Mycorrhizal Network (MN). The communication in the network is performed using chemical signals of environmental conditions and hazards, the exchange of resources, such as Carbon Dioxide (CO2) that plants perform through photosynthesis to the MN and to other seedlings or growing plants. The MN provides water (H2O) and nutrients to plants that may or may not be of the same species; therefore, the colonization of plants in arid lands would not have been possible without the MN. In this work, we performed a comparison with the CEC-2013 mathematical functions between MTOA and DMOA by conducting Hypothesis Tests to obtain the efficiency and performance of the algorithms, but in future research we will also propose optimization experiments in Neural Networks and Fuzzy Systems to verify with which methods these algorithms perform better.
On the Chromatic Index of the Signed Generalized Petersen Graph GP(n,2)
Authors: Zheng Shanshan , Cai Hongyan , Wang Yuanpei , Sun Qiang
Published: August 2022

Let G be a graph and σ:E(G)→{+1,−1} be a mapping. The pair (G,σ), denoted by Gσ, is called a signed graph. A (proper) l-edge coloring γ of Gσ is a mapping from each vertex–edge incidence of Gσ to Mq such that γ(v,e)=−σ(e)γ(w,e) for each edge e=vw, and no two vertex–edge incidences have the same color; that is, γ(v,e)≠γ(v,f). The chromatic index is the minimal number q such that Gσ has a proper q-edge coloring, denoted by χ′(Gσ). In 2020, Behr proved that the chromatic index of a signed graph is its maximum degree or maximum plus one. In this paper, we considered the chromatic index of the signed generalized Petersen graph GP(n,2) and show that its chromatic index is its maximum degree for most cases. In detail, we proved that (1) χ′(GPσ(n,2))=3 if n≡3 mod 6(n≥9); (2) χ′(GPσ(n,2))=3 if n=2p(p≥4).
Primary-like Human Hepatocytes Genetically Engineered to Obtain Proliferation Competence as a Capable Application for Energy Metabolism Experiments in In Vitro Oncologic Liver Models
Authors: Scheffschick Andrea , Babel Jonas , Sperling Sebastian , Nerusch Julia , Herzog Natalie , Seehofer Daniel , Damm Georg
Published: August 2022

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), characterized by lipid accumulation in the liver, is the most common cause of liver diseases in Western countries. NAFLD is a major risk factor for developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC); however, in vitro evaluation of hepatic cancerogenesis fails due to a lack of liver models displaying a proliferation of hepatocytes. Originally designed to overcome primary human hepatocyte (PHH) shortages, upcyte hepatocytes were engineered to obtain continuous proliferation and, therefore, could be a suitable tool for HCC research. We generated upcyte hepatocytes, termed HepaFH3 cells, and compared their metabolic characteristics to HepG2 hepatoma cells and PHHs isolated from resected livers. For displaying NAFLD-related HCCs, we induced steatosis in all liver models. Lipid accumulation, lipotoxicity and energy metabolism were characterized using biochemical assays and Western blot analysis. We showed that proliferating HepaFH3 cells resemble HepG2, both showing a higher glucose uptake rate, lactate levels and metabolic rate compared to PHHs. Confluent HepaFH3 cells displayed some similarities to PHHs, including higher levels of the transaminases AST and ALT compared to proliferating HepaFH3 cells. We recommend proliferating HepaFH3 cells as a pre-malignant cellular model for HCC research, while confluent HepaFH3 cells could serve as PHH surrogates for energy metabolism studies.
Functional Characterization of Three GnRH Isoforms in Small Yellow Croaker Larimichthys polyactis Maintained in Captivity: Special Emphasis on Reproductive Dysfunction
Authors: Sukhan Zahid Parvez , Cho Yusin , Hossen Shaharior , Yang Seok-Woo , Hwang Nam-Yong , Lee Won Kyo , Kho Kang Hee
Published: August 2022

Fish reproduction is regulated by the brain–pituitary–gonad (BPG) axis where the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) plays a central role. Seed production of small yellow croaker (Larimichthys polyactis) is performed using captive-reared broodstock known to undergo reproductive dysfunction, which is connected to endocrinological dysfunction. To determine the endocrinological mechanism of GnRHs in the BPG axis of small yellow croaker, full-length sequences of three GnRH isoforms encoding sbGnRH (GnRH1), cGnRH-II (GnRH2), and sGnRH (GnRH3) were cloned and characterized from brain tissue. qRT-PCR, in vivo, and in vitro experiments were performed for functional characterization. The mRNA expression of GnRH1 in the brain and gonadotropin subunits (GPα, FSHβ, and LHβ) in the pituitary were significantly higher at the ripen stage during gonadal development and GnRH1 at spawning stage during spawning events. Expression of both GnRH1 and GtH subunits was significantly lower in females than males. GtH subunits were induced at higher concentrations of GnRH1 in vivo and in vitro. Sex-steroids significantly inhibited the GnRH1 expression in vitro in a dose-dependent manner. Taken together, results indicated that GnRH1 plays a key role in gonadal maturation and sex-steroids induced negative feedback in the regulation of GnRH. A lower level of GnRH1 and GtHs might be responsible for reproductive dysfunction in a female small yellow croaker.
Gene Expression Changes Induced by Exposure of RAW 264.7 Macrophages to Particulate Matter of Air Pollution: The Role of Endotoxins
Authors: Roman Adam , Korostyński Michał , Jankowska-Kieltyka Monika , Piechota Marcin , Hajto Jacek , Nalepa Irena
Published: August 2022

Despite the variable chemical and physical characteristics of particulate air pollutants, inflammation and oxidative stress have been identified as common mechanisms for cell damage and negative health influences. These effects are produced by organic components, especially by endotoxins. This study analyzed the gene expression profile after exposure of RAW 264.7 cells to the standard particulate matter (PM) material, NIST1648a, and PM with a reduced organic matter content, LAp120, in comparison to the effects of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The selected parameters of cell viability, cell cycle progression, and metabolic and inflammatory activity were also investigated. Both forms of PM negatively influenced the parameters of cell activity. These results were generally reflected in the gene expression profile. Only NIST1648a, excluding LAp120, contained endotoxins and showed small but statistically significant pro-inflammatory activity. However, the gene expression profiling revealed strong pro-inflammatory cell activation induced by NIST1648a that was close to the effects of LPS. Changes in gene expression triggered by LAp120 were relatively small. The observed differences in the effects of NIST1648a and LAp120 were related to the content of organic matter in which bacterial endotoxins play an important role. However, other organic compounds and their interactions with other PM components also appear to be of significant importance.
Toxicity Assessment of an Anti-Cancer Drug of p-Toluene Sulfonamide in Zebrafish Larvae Based on Cardiovascular and Locomotion Activities
Authors: Young Andrew Yau Wah , Audira Gilbert , Saputra Ferry , Alos Honeymae C. , Aventurado Charlaine A. , Lai Yu-Heng , Vasquez Ross D. , Hsiao Chung-Der , Hung Chih-Hsin
Published: August 2022

p-Toluene sulfonamide (p-TSA), a small molecular drug with antineoplastic activity is widely gaining interest from researchers because of its pharmacological activities. In this study, we explored the potential cardio and neural toxicity of p-TSA in sublethal concentrations by using zebrafish as an in vivo animal model. Based on the acute toxicity assay, the 96hr LC50 was estimated as 204.3 ppm, suggesting the overall toxicity of p-TSA is relatively low in zebrafish larvae. For the cardiotoxicity test, we found that p-TSA caused only a minor alteration in treated larvae after no overall significant alterations were observed in cardiac rhythm and cardiac physiology parameters, as supported by the results from expression level measurements of several cardiac development marker genes. On the other hand, we found that acute p-TSA exposure significantly increased the larval locomotion activity during the photomotor test while prolonged exposure (4 days) reduced the locomotor startle reflex activities in zebrafish. In addition, a higher respiratory rate and blood flow velocity was also observed in the acutely treated fish groups compared to the untreated group. Finally, by molecular docking, we found that p-TSA has a moderate binding affinity to skeletal muscle myosin II subfragment 1 (S1), ATPase activity, actin- and Ca2+-stimulated myosin S1 ATPase, and v-type proton ATPase. These binding interactions between p-TSA and proteins offer insights into the potential molecular mechanism of action of p-TSA on observed altered responses toward photo and vibration stimuli and minor altered vascular performance in the zebrafish larvae.
Chronic Pain after Bone Fracture: Current Insights into Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Strategies
Authors: Zhao Yuying , Zhang Haoyue , Li Nan , Li Jing , Zhang Linlin
Published: August 2022

Bone fracture following traumatic injury or due to osteoporosis is characterized by severe pain and motor impairment and is a major cause of global mortality and disability. Fracture pain often originates from mechanical distortion of somatosensory nerve terminals innervating bones and muscles and is maintained by central sensitization. Chronic fracture pain (CFP) after orthopedic repairs is considered one of the most critical contributors to interference with the physical rehabilitation and musculoskeletal functional recovery. Analgesics available for CFP in clinics not only have poor curative potency but also have considerable side effects; therefore, it is important to further explore the pathogenesis of CFP and identify safe and effective therapies. The typical physiopathological characteristics of CFP are a neuroinflammatory response and excitatory synaptic plasticity, but the specific molecular mechanisms involved remain poorly elucidated. Recent progress has deepened our understanding of the emerging properties of chemokine production, proinflammatory mediator secretion, caspase activation, neurotransmitter release, and neuron-glia interaction in initiating and sustaining synaptogenesis, synaptic strength, and signal transduction in central pain sensitization, indicating the possibility of targeting neuroinflammation to prevent and treat CFP. This review summarizes current literature on the excitatory synaptic plasticity, microgliosis, and microglial activation-associated signaling molecules and discusses the unconventional modulation of caspases and stimulator of interferon genes (STING) in the pathophysiology of CFP. We also review the mechanisms of action of analgesics in the clinic and their side effects as well as promising therapeutic candidates (e.g., specialized pro-resolving mediators, a caspase-6 inhibitor, and a STING agonist) for pain relief by the attenuation of neuroinflammation with the aim of better managing patients undergoing CFP in the clinical setting.
An Assessment of External Wall Retrofitting Strategies Using GRC Materials in Hot Desert Regions
Authors: Ragab Ayman , Abdelhafez Mohamed , Touahmia Mabrouk , Alshenaifi Mohammad , Noaime Emad , Elkhayat Khaled , Alghaseb Mohammed , Hamdy Omar
Published: August 2022

Due to urbanization, population growth, and the consequences of climate change, the usage of energy for cooling has increased considerably in recent years. Passive climate measures, on the other hand, could alleviate the situation by reducing energy use in buildings. This study examined the environmental and financial benefits of utilizing glass fiber-reinforced cement in the external walls of a communal social hub building in New Aswan city, taken an example of the hot desert region. Utilizing Design Builder software, the effect of various outside wall alternatives on cooling energy consumption was explored and analyzed. In addition, a cost–benefit analysis utilizing the simple payback period was conducted to aid decision-makers in selecting the most suitable exterior wall materials for public buildings in hot desert regions. Using cement plaster, cement brick, glass wool, and glass fiber-reinforced cement as an outside wall resulted in a significant improvement rate, according to the data. Compared to a typical wall (cement plaster, cement brick, and cement plaster), it can save up to 41% of energy. In addition, it has the lowest simple payback period value when compared to other examined solutions (10.86 years). In general, the results indicate that glass fiber-reinforced cement walls embedded in thermal insulation materials and incorporated into cement brick walls are more energy-efficient in terms of necessary cooling energy and economic viability.
Low-Carbon Self-Healing Concrete: State-of-the-Art, Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Albuhairi Danah , Di Sarno Luigi
Published: August 2022

The sustainability of the construction industry is a priority in innovations made towards mitigating its notoriously high carbon emissions. Developments in low-carbon concrete technology are of peak interest today under the scrutiny of emerging policy pressures. Concrete is the external part of most structures vulnerable to permanent degradation and weathering, the possibility of an intrinsic restoration of its engineering properties promises unprecedented advancements towards structural resilience. Existing research in self-healing concrete (SHC) has often concerned the scope of material development and evaluation with inconclusive field testing, hindering its progress towards structural feasibility. This paper presents an overview of recent progress in SHC, and possible opportunities and challenges of popular healing systems are discussed. Moreover, trends are observed to investigate SHC’s influence on the engineering properties of concrete, and future projections of SHC are suggested with identification of potential research needs.
Effects between Information Sharing and Knowledge Formation and Their Impact on Complex Infrastructure Projects’ Performance
Authors: Li Qian , Lee Cen-Ying , Jin Hao , Chong Heap-Yih
Published: August 2022

Adopting knowledge management theories from an inter-organizational perspective, this study aims to uncover the relationships among information sharing (IS), knowledge organization (KO), and knowledge integration (KI) through knowledge formation (KF) for improving complex infrastructure project performance. Two hundred and thirty-four valid questionnaires were collected from organizations involved in complex infrastructure projects, and their responses were evaluated using partial least-squares structural equation modeling. The findings show that IS has a significant effect on the improvement of project performance and manifests as multiple mediation roles through KO, KI and KF, not via the direct effect of IS on KI and that of KO on KF. Inter-organizational trust also plays a new and positive moderating role in the relationship between KO and KI, not in the relationship between IS and KO. This study not only provides insights on the practice of knowledge management for improving complex infrastructure project performance, but it also discovers new pathways of knowledge management and relational governance through project-specific knowledge formation.
Passive Night Cooling Potential in Office Buildings in Continental and Mediterranean Climate Zone in Croatia
Authors: Veršić Zoran , Binički Marin , Nosil Mešić Mateja
Published: August 2022

The envelope is one of the most important driving factors in the energy efficiency of buildings. Typical for office and commercial buildings, curtain wall facades allow solar heat gains to be used during the winter but can lead to difficulties in reducing the cooling load during summer. The cooling load is dominant in most building types in the temperate maritime climate, while in the temperate continental climate, it is dominant mainly in office and commercial buildings. The goal of this research was to determine the potential of night passive cooling in an office building model in the most populated urban areas in Croatia-Zagreb and Split, which are located in two different climate zones. Suitable to the climate on-site, an appropriate building envelope and various types of passive and mechanical ventilation systems were selected for each location and case. Additional factors included and analysed were climate conditions, heat gains, the heat accumulation of the building, night ventilation through openings, unwanted air infiltration, and cooling loads. Through a detailed description of the model, passive cooling potential calculations, and Computer Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations, the results showed a potential of up to 43.5% savings in the cooling energy need for the temperate continental climate and 32.2% in the temperate marine climate. It was found from the analysis that night ventilation is expected to cool down the building enough to delay a need for cooling by several hours and improve fresh air requirements, thus saving power for cooling, and effectively reducing the need for air conditioning.
Comprehensive Analysis of Genomic Alterations in Hepatoid Adenocarcinoma of the Stomach and Identification of Clinically Actionable Alterations
Authors: Zhao Rongjie , Li Hongshen , Ge Weiting , Zhu Xiuming , Zhu Liang , Wan Xiangbo , Wang Guanglan , Pan Hongming , Lu Jie , Han Weidong
Published: August 2022

Hepatoid adenocarcinoma of the stomach (HAS) is a rare malignancy with aggressive biological behavior. This study aimed to compare the genetic landscape of HAS with liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC), gastric cancer (GC), and AFP-producing GC (AFPGC) and identify clinically actionable alterations. Thirty-eight cases of HAS were collected for whole-exome sequencing. Significantly mutated genes were identified. TP53 was the most frequently mutated gene (66%). Hypoxia, TNF-α/NFκB, mitotic spindle assembly, DNA repair, and p53 signaling pathways mutated frequently. Mutagenesis mechanisms in HAS were associated with spontaneous or enzymatic deamination of 5-methylcytosine to thymine and defective homologous recombination-related DNA damage repair. However, LIHC was characteristic of exposure to aflatoxin and aristolochic acid. The copy number variants (CNVs) in HAS was significantly different compared to LIHC, GC, and AFPGC. Aggressive behavior-related CNVs were identified, including local vascular invasion, advanced stages, and adverse prognosis. In 55.26% of HAS patients there existed at least one clinically actionable alteration, including ERBB2, FGFR1, CDK4, EGFR, MET, and MDM2 amplifications and BRCA1/2 mutations. MDM2 amplification with functional TP53 was detected in 5% of HAS patients, which was proved sensitive to MDM2 inhibitors. A total of 10.53% of HAS patients harbored TMB > 10 muts/Mb. These findings improve our understanding of the genomic features of HAS and provide potential therapeutic targets.
MRI in the Evaluation of Locally Advanced Vulvar Cancer Treated with Chemoradiotherapy and Vulvar Cancer Recurrence: The 2021 Revision of FIGO Classification and the Need for Multidisciplinary Management
Authors: Miccò Maura , Russo Luca , Persiani Salvatore , Dolciami Miriam , Manganaro Lucia , Cunha Teresa Margarida , Janicas Catarina , Rizzo Stefania , Nicolic Olivera , Garganese Giorgia , Tagliaferri Luca , Lancellotta Valentina , Scambia Giovanni , Manfredi Riccardo , Gui Benedetta
Published: August 2022

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) plays an essential role in the management of patients with locally advanced vulvar cancer (LAVC), who frequently benefit from a multidisciplinary approach. Accordingly, chemoradiotherapy (CRT) with radical or neoadjuvant intent seems to provide a better quality of life and less morbidity than extensive surgery alone. In this overview, we discuss the role of MRI in the post-CRT assessment of LAVC, emphasizing the evaluation of primary tumor response. In order to assess treatment response and select candidates for post-CRT local excision, the MRI findings are described according to signal intensity, restricted diffusion, enhancement, and invasion of adjacent organs. We also focus on the role of MRI in detecting vulvar cancer recurrence. It occurs in 30–50% of patients within two years after initial treatment, the majority appearing near the original resection margins or in ipsilateral inguinal or pelvic lymph nodes. Finally, we describe early and delayed complications of CRT, such as cellulitis, urethritis, vulvar edema, bone changes, myositis, and fistulization. By describing the role of MRI in assessing LAVC response to CRT and detecting recurrence, we hope to provide suitable indications for a personalized approach.
Genetic and Epigenetic Pathogenesis of Acromegaly
Authors: Yamamoto Masaaki , Takahashi Yutaka
Published: August 2022

Acromegaly is caused by excessive secretion of GH and IGF-I mostly from somatotroph tumors. Various genetic and epigenetic factors are involved in the pathogenesis of somatotroph tumors. While somatic mutations of GNAS are the most prevalent cause of somatotroph tumors, germline mutations in various genes (AIP, PRKAR1A, GPR101, GNAS, MEN1, CDKN1B, SDHx, MAX) are also known as the cause of somatotroph tumors. Moreover, recent findings based on multiple perspectives of the pangenomic approach including genome, transcriptome, and methylome analyses, histological characterization, genomic instability, and possible involvement of miRNAs have gradually unveiled the whole landscape of the underlying mechanisms of somatotroph tumors. In this review, we will focus on the recent advances in genetic and epigenetic pathogenesis of somatotroph tumors.
Selective Hydrogenation of 5-Acetoxymethylfurfural over Cu-Based Catalysts in a Flow Reactor: Effect of Cu-Al Layered Double Hydroxides Synthesis Conditions on Catalytic Properties
Authors: Bukhtiyarova Marina V. , Bulavchenko Olga A. , Bukhtiyarov Andrey V. , Nuzhdin Alexey L. , Bukhtiyarova Galina A.
Published: August 2022

Cu-containing layered double hydroxides (LDHs) were synthesized by a co-precipitation method at different reaction conditions, such as aging time, pH, precipitation rate and synthesis temperature. The effect of these parameters on the structure and chemical composition of the catalysts were investigated using a set of physical methods, including thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), H2-TPR and in situ X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). It allowed for checking of the reducibility of the samples. 5-Acetoxymethylfurfural was catalytically hydrogenated to 5-(acetoxymethyl)-2-furanmethanol (AMFM) over Cu-containing catalysts synthesized from layered double hydroxides so as to investigate its catalytic properties in flow reaction. It was shown that synthesis pH decreasing from 10 to 8 resulted in rise of AMF conversion that coincided with the higher surface Cu/Al ratio obtained by XPS. Preferable aging time of LDH materials for obtaining the most active catalyst was 2 h, an amount of time that favored the production of the catalyst with high surface Cu/Al ratio up to 0.38. Under optimized reaction conditions, the AMFM yield was 98%. Finally, a synthesis strategy for the preparation of highly efficient Cu-based hydrogenation catalyst with optimized characteristics is suggested.
Oxygen Consumption and Basal Metabolic Rate as Markers of Susceptibility to Malignant Hyperthermia and Heat Stroke
Authors: Serano Matteo , Pietrangelo Laura , Paolini Cecilia , Guarnier Flavia A. , Protasi Feliciano
Published: August 2022

Calsequestrin 1 (CASQ1) and Ryanodine receptor 1 (RYR1) are two of the main players in excitation–contraction (EC) coupling. CASQ1-knockout mice and mice carrying a mutation in RYR1 (Y522S) linked to human malignant hyperthermia susceptibility (MHS) both suffer lethal hypermetabolic episodes when exposed to halothane (MHS crises) and to environmental heat (heat stroke, HS). The phenotype of Y522S is more severe than that of CASQ1-null mice. As MHS and HS are hypermetabolic responses, we studied the metabolism of adult CASQ1-null and Y522S mice using wild-type (WT) mice as controls. We found that CASQ1-null and Y522S mice have increased food consumption and higher core temperature at rest. By indirect calorimetry, we then verified that CASQ1-null and Y522S mice show an increased oxygen consumption and a lower respiratory quotient (RQ). The accelerated metabolism of CASQ1-null and Y522S mice was also accompanied with a reduction in body fat. Moreover, both mouse models displayed increased oxygen consumption and a higher core temperature during heat stress. The results collected suggest that metabolic rate, oxygen consumption, and body temperature at rest, all more elevated in Y522S than in CASQ1-null mice, could possibly be used as predictors of the level of susceptibility to hyperthermic crises of mice (and possibly humans).
Anti-Human CD9 Fab Fragment Antibody Blocks the Extracellular Vesicle-Mediated Increase in Malignancy of Colon Cancer Cells
Authors: Santos Mark F. , Rappa Germana , Fontana Simona , Karbanová Jana , Aalam Feryal , Tai Derek , Li Zhiyin , Pucci Marzia , Alessandro Riccardo , Morimoto Chikao , Corbeil Denis , Lorico Aurelio
Published: August 2022

Intercellular communication between cancer cells themselves or with healthy cells in the tumor microenvironment and/or pre-metastatic sites plays an important role in cancer progression and metastasis. In addition to ligand–receptor signaling complexes, extracellular vesicles (EVs) are emerging as novel mediators of intercellular communication both in tissue homeostasis and in diseases such as cancer. EV-mediated transfer of molecular activities impacting morphological features and cell motility from highly metastatic SW620 cells to non-metastatic SW480 cells is a good in vitro example to illustrate the increased malignancy of colorectal cancer leading to its transformation and aggressive behavior. In an attempt to intercept the intercellular communication promoted by EVs, we recently developed a monovalent Fab fragment antibody directed against human CD9 tetraspanin and showed its effectiveness in blocking the internalization of melanoma cell-derived EVs and the nuclear transfer of their cargo proteins into recipient cells. Here, we employed the SW480/SW620 model to investigate the anti-cancer potential of the anti-CD9 Fab antibody. We first demonstrated that most EVs derived from SW620 cells contain CD9, making them potential targets. We then found that the anti-CD9 Fab antibody, but not the corresponding divalent antibody, prevented internalization of EVs from SW620 cells into SW480 cells, thereby inhibiting their phenotypic transformation, i.e., the change from a mesenchymal-like morphology to a rounded amoeboid-like shape with membrane blebbing, and thus preventing increased cell migration. Intercepting EV-mediated intercellular communication in the tumor niche with an anti-CD9 Fab antibody, combined with direct targeting of cancer cells, could lead to the development of new anti-cancer therapeutic strategies.
Effects of an Intensive 6-Week Rehabilitation Program with the HUBER Platform in the Treatment of Non-Specific Chronic Low Back Pain: A Pilot Study
Authors: Tantot Mélanie , Le Moal Vincent , Mévellec Éric , Nouy-Trollé Isabelle , Lemoine-Josse Emmanuelle , Besnier Florent , Guiraud Thibaut
Published: August 2022

Non-specific chronic low back pain (NSCLBP) is defined as a complex disorder involving structural, biomechanical, cognitive, psychological, social, and lifestyle factors. Non-pharmacological approaches such as exercise and physical therapy have been proposed in first-line treatments, along with psychological follow-up and pain medication if needed. Our objective was to evaluate the effectiveness of an intensive rehabilitation program with HUBER (a multi-axis motorized platform equipped with force sensors, allowing patients to perform physical exercises in an isometric mode) on the spine flexion-to-extension ratio at 60 and 120°/s, pain, and trunk flexibility in individuals with NSCLBP. Twelve participants underwent a clinical evaluation including isokinetic spine strength and participated in a 6-week rehabilitation program with HUBER 360 Evolution. The main findings of this pilot study show that the flexor/extensor ratios at 60°, the flexibility of the hamstring and quadriceps, and muscular endurance of the trunk, disability, and quality of life were significantly improved at the end of the rehabilitation program (p < 0.05). Low back pain and analgesic medication were also reduced. Exercising with the HUBER Platform seems to be effective in managing NSCLBP but a randomized study with a larger sample size and a control group is necessary.
Review: Modeling and Simulation of Membrane Electrode Material Structure for Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells
Authors: Chen Yanyan , Liu Yuekun , Xu Yingjie , Guo Xudong , Cao Yang , Ming Wuyi
Published: August 2022

Hydrogen energy is recognized as the clean energy with the most development potential, and hydrogen fuel cell technology is considered the ultimate solution utilizing hydrogen energy. The proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) has the merits of high energy efficiency, high energy density, low operating temperature, is clean, and affords environmental protection. Improving the structure of each functional layer could play a significant role in improving PEMFC performance. In addition, membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs) are the core components of a PEMFC, and their structure includes three main parts, namely, the gas diffusion layer (GDL), catalytic layer (CL), and proton exchange membrane (PEM). Therefore, this review focuses on progress in the modeling and simulation of the material structure in MEAs. First, the GDL simulation models are critically reviewed, including two-phase calculation models and microscopic simulation models. Second, CL microstructure models are comprehensively evaluated, involving power density enhancement, catalyst loading distribution, electrochemical reaction and its performance optimization. Third, the PEM simulation model, relating to molecular dynamics (MD) simulation techniques, 3D numerical techniques, and multiphysics simulation, are reviewed. Finally, the three aspects of similarity, individuality, and complementarity of these simulation models are discussed, and necessary outlooks, including the current limitations and challenges, are suggested, providing a reference for low-cost, high-performing PEMFC membrane electrodes for the future.
Effect of Humidity on the Thermal Properties of Aluminum Nanopowders with Different Surface Coatings
Authors: Guo Liangui , Li Yulin , Song Wulin , He Bianyang , Yang Mengli , Zhu Lei
Published: August 2022

To investigate the effect of surface coating materials on the humidity stability of aluminum (Al) nanopowders, three kinds of core–shell structure Al nanopowders with an Al2O3 passivation coating, carbon coating, and plasticizer dioctyl sebacate (DOS) coating were prepared through laser-induction complex heating method. After one year’s storage at 95% relative humidity, their thermal properties were tested through differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) and thermal gravimeter (TG) analysis. The results show that the thermal properties of Al2O3-passivated Al nanopowders are entirely lost under high humidity because the Al2O3 passivation coating is very sensitive to moisture. The thermal properties of carbon-coated Al nanopowders are not well-protected under a high humidity due to the uneven thickness and structural defects of carbon coatings. However, the thermal enthalpy of DOS-coated Al nanopowders remains at 3.56 KJ/g under high humidity, which indicates that an organic DOS coating with a hydrophobic nature has an excellent protective effect on the thermal properties of the Al nanopowders. Given the good forming performance of organic DOS coatings and other components of propellants, DOS-coated Al nanopowders are a kind of energetic material with potential application value.
Joining Superconducting MgB2 Parts by Spark Plasma Sintering: A New Technique with High Potential for Manufacturing Future Superconducting Devices
Authors: Thimont Yohann , Xing Yiteng , Bernstein Pierre , Miryala Muralidhar , Noudem Jacques
Published: August 2022

MgB2 pellets that were sintered by Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) from commercial MgB2 powder were soldered by a SPS process and compared to unsoldered ones. The soldered samples were characterized by scanning and transmission electron microscopy which have shown no visible defects at the junction. SQUID magnetometry and four probes resistance measurements have confirmed that the soldered pellets present the same magnetic properties as the unsoldered ones. The presented soldering technique could find applications for manufacturing superconducting devices with custom shapes which could be used as rotors for motors and generators, magnets and magnetic shields. This new approach could generate a high potential interest for industrials in these and connected domains such as the development of new electrical planes using superconducting technologies.
Pyroelectric and Ferroelectric Properties of Hafnium Oxide Doped with Si via Plasma Enhanced ALD
Authors: Neuber Markus , Lederer Maximilian Walter , Mertens Konstantin , Kämpfe Thomas , Czernohorsky Malte , Seidel Konrad
Published: August 2022

Devices based on ferroelectric hafnium oxide are of major interest for sensor and memory applications. In particular, Si-doped hafnium oxide layers are investigated for the application in the front-end-of-line due to their resilience to high thermal treatments. Due to its very confined doping concentration range, Si:HfO2 layers based on thermal atomic layer deposition often exhibited a crossflow pattern across 300 mm wafer. Here, plasma enhanced atomic layer deposition is explored as an alternative method for producing Si-doped HfO2 layers, and their ferroelectric and pyroelectric properties are compared.
Microstructural Evolution and Mechanical Properties of 7075 Aluminium Alloy during Semi-Solid Compression Deformation
Authors: Wang Kai , Hu Shengqing , Wang Tianhao , Xie Wenlong , Guo Tong , Li Fuguo , Luo Rong
Published: August 2022

Aluminium alloys are becoming increasingly popular due to the demands for high-performance lightweight components, and semi-solid metal processing (SSM) is a technique for forming near-net-shape and complex components with far fewer defects associated with turbulent filling. The deformation mechanisms of semi-solid 7075 aluminium alloy were studied through the direct partial re-melting method using as-extruded billets. It is found that inter-granular and intra-granular deformation occur simultaneously during compression under the semi-solid condition; the deformation of solid primary α-Al grains can compensate for the shrinkage of inter-granular liquid and increase the integrity of shaped parts. The intra-granular deformation at the final stage of SSM can change the morphology of spherical solid grains and induces sub-grain boundaries.
Genotypic and Phenotypic Characterization of Lactic Acid Bacteria Associated with Silage Fermentation of Pineapple Residue
Authors: Lin Yanli , Du Zhumei , Xiong Yi , Wang Ningwei , Wang Xuekai , Zhou Xiaoli , Yang Fuyu , Ni Kuikui
Published: August 2022

The natural populations of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and silage quality of pineapple residue silage were investigated in this study. A total of 34 LAB strains originally isolated from pineapple residue silage were characterized and identified by phenotypic and genotypic methods. These LAB strains were Gram-positive and catalase-negative bacteria, which were divided into four groups: Lactiplantibacillusplantarum (52.9%), Levilactobacillus brevis (14.7%), Lacticaseibacillus paracasei (17.6%) and Leuconostoc citreum (14.7%). Lactiplantibacillus plantarum was the dominant species. Homofermentative strains accounted for 70.5%. After 30 days of ensiling, the pineapple residue silage could be well preserved with low pH value (3.65) and high content of lactic acid (75.57 g/kg of DM). In this study, LAB populations of pineapple residue silage fermentation were investigated, which indicated that pineapple residue silage was a potential good animal feed source. In addition, this result will be valuable for screening-appropriate inoculants aimed at improving the quality.
Fish Diversity along the Mekong River and Delta Inferred by Environmental-DNA in a Period of Dam Building and Downstream Salinization
Authors: Durand Jean-Dominique , Simier Monique , Tran Ngan Trong , Grudpan Chaiwut , Chan Bunyeth , Nguyen Bao Ngoc Le , Hoang Huy Duc , Panfili Jacques
Published: August 2022

The Mekong River is one of the largest rivers in the world and hosts the second greatest fish diversity in the world after the Amazon. However, despite the importance of this diversity and its associated biomass for human food security and the economy, different anthropogenic pressures threaten the sustainability of the Mekong River and fish diversity, including the intense damming of the main river. Both the increase in salt-water penetration into the Mekong Delta and the disrupted connectivity of the river may have serious impacts on the numerous freshwater and migratory species. To evaluate the potential of an eDNA approach for monitoring fish diversity, water was sampled at 15 sites along the salinity gradient in the Mekong Delta and along 1500 km of the main stream, from Vietnam to Thailand and Laos. A total of 287 OTUs were recovered, of which 158 were identified to the species level using both reference sequences available in GenBank and references obtained locally. Agglomerative hierarchical clustering and PCA identified up to three main species assemblages in our samples. If the transition from brackish to freshwater conditions represents the main barrier between two of these assemblages, more surprisingly, the two other assemblages were observed in the freshwater Mekong, with a spatial disjunction that did not match any biogeographic ecoregion or the Khone falls, the latter thought to be an important fish dispersion barrier. Between 60% and 95% of the freshwater species were potamodromous. This pioneer eDNA study in the Mekong River at this geographical and ecological scale clearly confirmed the potential of this approach for ecological and diversity monitoring. It also demonstrated the need to rapidly build an exhaustive Mekong fish barcode library to enable more accurate species’ assignment. More eDNA surveys can now be expected to better describe the ecological niche of different species, which is crucial for any models aimed at predicting the impact of future damming of the Mekong.
Anopheles maculipennis Complex in The Netherlands: First Record of Anopheles daciae (Diptera: Culicidae)
Authors: Ibáñez-Justicia A. , Smitz Nathalie , Blom Rody , Vanderheyden Ann , Jacobs Frans , Meganck Kenny , Gombeer Sophie , Backeljau Thierry , Koenraadt Constantianus J. M. , Griep J. S. , De Meyer Marc , Stroo Arjan
Published: August 2022

Despite their past importance as vectors of indigenous malaria, the species composition and spatial distribution of the members of the Anopheles maculipennis complex have been studied to a limited extent in the Netherlands. Therefore, this investigation focuses on the distribution of the members of this complex in the Netherlands, including Anopheles daciae, which has recently been found in countries bordering the Netherlands. In the framework of a national mosquito surveillance between 2010 and 2021, a total of 541 specimens of An. maculipennis s.l. were analyzed from 161 locations covering the entire territory. In addition, 89 specimens were analyzed from overwintering sites during the winter of 2020/2021. All individual mosquitoes were identified to species-level using Sanger sequencing of the ribosomal internal transcribed spacer 2. To characterize the habitat of An. maculipennis s.l. in the Netherlands, land cover use data was extracted in a 1 km buffer area around each finding location. For populations collected in summers between 2010 and 2021, the most frequent species was An. messeae, present in 88.19% of the locations, followed by An. maculipennis s.s. (11.80%), An. atroparvus (3.72%) and An. daciae (3.72%). Anopheles daciae was found in the southern inland areas of the country. Furthermore, An. messeae and An. daciae occurred in sympatry at overwintering sites. This study provides relevant information on the occurrence of species of the Anopheles maculipennis complex in the Netherlands, contributing to a better estimation of the risk of mosquito-borne disease in the country.
Big Data in Laboratory Medicine—FAIR Quality for AI?
Authors: Blatter Tobias Ueli , Witte Harald , Nakas Christos Theodoros , Leichtle Alexander Benedikt
Published: August 2022

Laboratory medicine is a digital science. Every large hospital produces a wealth of data each day—from simple numerical results from, e.g., sodium measurements to highly complex output of “-omics” analyses, as well as quality control results and metadata. Processing, connecting, storing, and ordering extensive parts of these individual data requires Big Data techniques. Whereas novel technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning have exciting application for the augmentation of laboratory medicine, the Big Data concept remains fundamental for any sophisticated data analysis in large databases. To make laboratory medicine data optimally usable for clinical and research purposes, they need to be FAIR: findable, accessible, interoperable, and reusable. This can be achieved, for example, by automated recording, connection of devices, efficient ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) processes, careful data governance, and modern data security solutions. Enriched with clinical data, laboratory medicine data allow a gain in pathophysiological insights, can improve patient care, or can be used to develop reference intervals for diagnostic purposes. Nevertheless, Big Data in laboratory medicine do not come without challenges: the growing number of analyses and data derived from them is a demanding task to be taken care of. Laboratory medicine experts are and will be needed to drive this development, take an active role in the ongoing digitalization, and provide guidance for their clinical colleagues engaging with the laboratory data in research.
Special Issue on “Advances in Skin Lesion Image Analysis Using Machine Learning Approaches”
Authors: Mahbod Amirreza , Ellinger Isabella
Published: August 2022

Skin diseases are widespread and a frequent occurrence in general practice [...]
Multi-Level Nowcasting: Estimation in a Post-COVID Landscape
Authors: Lacey King Erin , Weiler Stephan , Stewart Eric , Stephenson Kendall
Published: August 2022

With the economic upheaval brought by COVID-19, it was very difficult to understand economic events as they unfolded in real time, during unprecedented pandemic conditions. Since existing methods did not adequately address the rapid changes to the economy on a statewide basis, we felt compelled to create a novel approach to (a) bring current critical data and (b) to evaluate the varying impacts of changes occurring in real time. As practitioners, this created actionable data to forecast future economic scenarios using public datasets and readily available spreadsheet software, giving guidance on an economy in conditions with no direct analogue. This paper describes a way to integrate public data to assess present economic changes and describes the approach using straightforward processes and accessible tools. By comparing and contrasting findings in Arizona and Colorado, our analysis of this approach reveals that the updated data showing the current state of the economy (the Nowcast) is a robust approach for creating accurate, current data, and the various methods for further dissection (the Multi-Level component) create informative datasets for a detailed analysis, with the caveat that structural changes to the economy need to be kept in mind so as not to confuse what is firmly known with what is an overly broad application of the method.