bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental Investigation of Compressive Concrete with Different Immersion Times and Its Stochastic Damage Model
Authors: Wang Jing , Shan Zhi , Kang Jiawei
Published: January 2024

Continuous large amounts of precipitation can lead to a rapid increase in the water content of concrete in village building foundations, which can adversely affect the mechanical properties, such as the compressive strength of concrete. There are few experimental studies on the compressive stochastic mechanical properties of concrete in the wet state after considering different soaking times (different water contents and saturations), but there is no corresponding stochastic damage principal structure model. In this study, the mechanical properties of concrete under different immersion times were tested to obtain the mechanical properties of the concrete degradation law, and the random damage intrinsic model of wet concrete was established. The results of this paper were compared with the classical test results from the literature to verify the validity of the model. The results show that the proposed stochastic damage model is able to consider both the effects of the saturation and the damage behavior of wet concrete under compression, which is beneficial to the structural design and maintenance protection of village buildings in areas with abundant precipitation.
CA-BSN: Mural Image Denoising Based on Cross–Attention Blind Spot Network
Authors: Cai Xingquan , Liu Yao , Liu Shike , Zhang Haoyu , Sun Haiyan
Published: January 2024

Recently, Asymmetric pixel–shuffle downsampling and Blind–Spot Network (AP-BSN) has made some progress in unsupervised image denoising. However, the method tends to damage the texture and edge information of the image when using pixel-shuffle downsampling (PD) to destroy pixel-related large-scale noise. To tackle this issue, we suggest a denoising method for mural images based on Cross Attention and Blind–Spot Network (CA-BSN). First, the input image is downsampled using PD, and after passing through a masked convolution module (MCM), the features are extracted respectively; then, a cross attention network (CAN) is constructed to fuse the extracted feature; finally, a feed-forward network (FFN) is introduced to strengthen the correlation between the feature, and the denoised processed image is output. The experimental results indicate that our proposed CA-BSN algorithm achieves a PSNR growth of 0.95 dB and 0.15 dB on the SIDD and DND datasets, respectively, compared to the AP-BSN algorithm. Furthermore, our method demonstrates a SSIM growth of 0.7% and 0.2% on the SIDD and DND datasets, respectively. The experiments show that our algorithm preserves the texture and edge details of the mural images better than AP-BSN, while also ensuring the denoising effect.
Using Auto-ML on Synthetic Point Cloud Generation
Authors: Hottong Moritz , Sperling Moritz , Müller Christoph
Published: January 2024

Automated Machine Learning (Auto-ML) has primarily been used to optimize network hyperparameters or post-processing parameters, while the most critical component for training a high-quality model, the dataset, is usually left untouched. In this paper, we introduce a novel approach that applies Auto-ML methods to the process of generating synthetic datasets for training machine learning models. Our approach addresses the problem that generating synthetic datasets requires a complex data generator, and that developing and tuning a data generator for a specific scenario is a time-consuming and expensive task. Being able to reuse this data generator for multiple purposes would greatly reduce the effort and cost, once the process of tuning it to the specific domains of each task is automated. To demonstrate the potential of this idea, we have implemented a point cloud generator for simple scenes. The scenes from this generator can be used to train a neural network to semantically segment cars from the background. The simple composition of the scene allows us to reuse the generator for several different semantic segmentation tasks. The models trained on the datasets with the optimized domain parameters easily outperform a model without such optimizations, while the optimization effort is minimal due to our Auto-ML approach. Although the development of such complex data generators requires considerable effort, we believe that using Auto-ML for dataset creation has the potential to speed up the development of machine learning applications in domains where high-quality labeled data is difficult to obtain.
Activated Carbons as Effective Adsorbents of Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs
Authors: Wasilewska Małgorzata , Grządka Elżbieta
Published: January 2024

In this study, the adsorption of naproxen sodium, ibuprofen sodium, and diclofenac sodium on activated carbon is investigated. Comprehensive studies of adsorption equilibrium and kinetics were performed using UV-Vis spectrophotometry. Thermal analysis and zeta potential measurements were also performed for pure activated carbon and hybrid materials (activated carbon–drug) obtained after adsorption of naproxen sodium, ibuprofen sodium, and diclofenac sodium. The largest amount and rate of adsorption was demonstrated for naproxen sodium. A significant impact of temperature on the adsorption of the tested salts of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs was also indicated. Faster kinetics and larger amounts of adsorption were recorded at higher temperatures. Thermodynamic parameters were also determined, based on which it was indicated that adsorption in the tested experimental systems is an endothermic, spontaneous, and thermodynamically privileged process of a physical nature. The generalized Langmuir isotherm was used to study the equilibrium data. The adsorption rate data were analyzed using numerous adsorption kinetics equations, including FOE, SOE, MOE, f-FOE-, f-SOE, f-MOE, and m-exp.
A Novel Reverse Combination Configuration to Reduce Mismatch Loss for Stratospheric Airship Photovoltaic Arrays
Authors: Shan Chuan , Sun Kangwen , Cheng Dongji , Ji Xinzhe , Gao Jian , Zou Tong
Published: January 2024

Enhancing the output power of stratospheric airship photovoltaic arrays during months with weak irradiance is crucial for extending the endurance of airships. Models for predicting the output power of photovoltaic arrays and the phenomenon of mismatch losses have been proposed. However, static reconstruction schemes to reduce or eliminate mismatch losses have not been studied. In this paper, an output power model for stratospheric airship arrays including the solar radiation and irradiance distribution is established. The characteristics of the irradiance distribution for the photovoltaic array (PV) are investigated through simulation. Furthermore, an innovative reverse combination configuration is developed and compared to the SP and TCT configurations in terms of performance, mismatch loss and fill factor. Finally, simulations are conducted for a full-day irradiance period of 4 days in a real wind field. The simulation results demonstrate that the proposed RC configuration significantly reduces mismatch losses and output power fluctuations, thereby enhancing the PV array’s output power. This research provides interesting insights for the design of PV array topologies for stratospheric airships.
Effect of kuratsuki Bacillus and Priestia on Taste of Sake
Authors: Kobayashi Karin , Nishida Hiromi
Published: January 2024

The co-cultivation of sake yeast (AK25, K901, K1401, or K1801 strain) and the kuratsuki Bacillus A-10 and/or Priestia B-12 strains in koji solution was performed to demonstrate the effects of these two kuratsuki bacteria on sake taste. The results showed that the Brix and acidity patterns of sake preparations produced with and without these kuratsuki bacteria were very similar. This indicated that the addition of these kuratsuki bacteria did not inhibit ethanol fermentation or organic acid production by sake yeast. A taste recognition device showed that the effects of these kuratsuki bacteria on the saltiness and sourness of sake were greater than those on other taste properties. Astringency stimulation and saltiness of sake produced using the sake yeast K901 were increased by Bacillus A-10 and decreased by Priestia B-12. Except for these two cases, the taste intensities of sake preparations produced with the Bacillus A-10 and Priestia B-12 strains were very similar, but differed from those of sake produced with kuratsuki Kocuria. These results support our hypothesis that the flavor and taste of sake can be controlled by utilizing the interactions between kuratsuki bacteria and sake yeast. For crating the desired sake taste, a combination of kuratsuki bacteria and sake yeast should be considered.
Assessment of Atmospheric Pollution by Selected Elements and PAHs during 12-Month Active Biomonitoring of Terrestrial Mosses
Authors: Rajfur Małgorzata , Stoica Anca-Iulia , Świsłowski Paweł , Stach Wolfgang , Ziegenbalg Falko , Mattausch Eva Maria
Published: January 2024

Biomonitoring studies are most often used in short-term study periods to quickly obtain information on the state/quality of the environment and its pollution levels. Performing long-term surveys involves a prolonged wait for the result and is therefore not often used and is rather associated with classical air quality monitoring. The aim of this study was to evaluate atmospheric air pollution by selecting 16 elements and 16 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons conducted as part of a 12-month ‘moss-bag’ technique of an active biomonitoring method with the use of three moss species: Pleurozium schreberi, Sphagnum fallax, and Dicranum polysetum. All analytes were determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). As a result of the experiment, it was found that the concentrations of all elements increased with time of exposure. The total sum of them in D. polysetum moss was 30% and 60% more than in P. schreberi and S. fallax, respectively, which allows us to consider this species’ broader use in active biomonitoring. For PAHs analysis, the best biomonitor in time was P. schreberi, which accumulated 25% and 55% more than S. fallax and D. polysetum, respectively. In this one-year study, most organic compounds accumulated between 5 and 6 months of exposure, depending on the species. Given the low-cost nature of active biomonitoring, it should be concluded that mosses could be used in long-term monitoring of the quality of the atmospheric aerosol in terms of element and organic compound concentration in air.
Seasonal Variations in Anthropogenic and Natural Particles Induced by Rising CO2 Levels
Authors: Yang Dongdong , Zhang Hua , Li Jiangnan
Published: January 2024

Using an aerosol–climate coupled model, this paper has investigated the changes in distributions of anthropogenic and natural particles due to 4 × CO2-induced global warming, under the low emission scenario of Representative Concentration Pathway 4.5 (RCP4.5). Special attention is paid to the seasonal variations of aerosol size modes. With rising CO2 levels, surface warming, and changes in atmospheric circulations and hydrologic cycles are found during both summer (JJA) and winter (DJF). For anthropogenic particles, changes in fine anthropogenic particulate matter (PM2.5, particles with diameters smaller than 2.5 μm) decrease over high-latitude regions and increase over the tropics in both DJF and JJA. Global mean column concentrations of PM2.5 decrease by approximately 0.19 mg m−2, and concentrations of coarse anthropogenic particles (CPM, particles with diameters larger than 2.5 μm) increase by 0.005 mg m−2 in JJA. Changes in anthropogenic particles in DJF are similar to those in JJA, but the magnitudes of maximum regional changes are much smaller than those in JJA. The coarse anthropogenic particles (CPM, particles with diameters larger than 2.5 μm) increase over northern Africa and the Arabian Peninsula during JJA, whereas changes in anthropogenic CPM during DJF are minimal. During both JJA and DJF, changes in anthropogenic CPM are about two orders of magnitude smaller than those of anthropogenic PM2.5. Enhanced wet deposition by large-scale precipitation under rising CO2-induced surface warming is the critical factor affecting changes in anthropogenic particles. For natural particles, the distribution of change in the natural PM2.5 burden is similar to that of natural CPM, but much larger than natural CPM during each season. Both natural PM2.5 and CPM burdens increase over northern Africa and the Arabian Peninsula during JJA, but decrease over most of the continental regions during DJF. Changes in surface wind speed, divergence/convergence of surface wind, and precipitation are primary reasons for the variation of natural particles.
Hybrid Quantum Genetic Algorithm with Fuzzy Adaptive Rotation Angle for Efficient Placement of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles in Natural Disaster Areas
Authors: Ballinas Enrique , Montiel Oscar , Martínez-Vargas Anabel , Rodríguez-Cortés Gabriela
Published: January 2024

A Hybrid Quantum Genetic Algorithm with Fuzzy Adaptive Rotation Angle (HQGAFARA) is introduced in this work to determine the optimal placements for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) aimed at maximizing coverage in disaster-stricken areas. The HQGAFARA is a hybrid quantum fuzzy meta-heuristic that uses the Deutsch–Jozsa quantum circuit to generate quantum populations synergistically working as haploid recombination and mutation operators that take advantage of quantum entanglement, providing exploitative and explorative features to produce new individuals. In place of the conventional lookup table or mathematical equation, we introduced a fuzzy heuristic to adapt the rotation angle employed in quantum gates. The hybrid nature of this algorithm becomes evident through its utilization of both classical and quantum computing components. Experimental evaluations were conducted using two distinct test sets. The first set, termed the “best case”, represents conditions that are the most favorable for determining the UAV positions, while the second set, the “worst-case”, simulates highly challenging conditions for locating the UAV positions, thereby posing a significant test for the proposed algorithm. We carried out statistical comparative analyses, assessing the HQGAFARA against other hybrid quantum algorithms that employ different rotation angles and against the classical genetic algorithm. The experimental results demonstrated that the HQGAFARA performed comparably, if not better, to the classical genetic algorithm regarding precision. Furthermore, quantum algorithms showcased their computational prowess in experiments related to the convergence time.
Application of Gradient Optimization Methods in Defining Neural Dynamics
Authors: Stanimirović Predrag S. , Tešić Nataša , Gerontitis Dimitrios , Milovanović Gradimir V. , Petrović Milena J. , Kazakovtsev Vladimir L. , Stasiuk Vladislav
Published: January 2024

Applications of gradient method for nonlinear optimization in development of Gradient Neural Network (GNN) and Zhang Neural Network (ZNN) are investigated. Particularly, the solution of the matrix equation AXB=D which changes over time is studied using the novel GNN model, termed as GGNN(A,B,D). The GGNN model is developed applying GNN dynamics on the gradient of the error matrix used in the development of the GNN model. The convergence analysis shows that the neural state matrix of the GGNN(A,B,D) design converges asymptotically to the solution of the matrix equation AXB=D, for any initial state matrix. It is also shown that the convergence result is the least square solution which is defined depending on the selected initial matrix. A hybridization of GGNN with analogous modification GZNN of the ZNN dynamics is considered. The Simulink implementation of presented GGNN models is carried out on the set of real matrices.
On the Generalized Hilfer Fractional Coupled Integro-Differential Systems with Multi-Point Ordinary and Fractional Integral Boundary Conditions
Authors: Sudprasert Chayapat , Ntouyas Sotiris K. , Ahmad Bashir , Samadi Ayub , Tariboon Jessada
Published: January 2024

In this paper, we investigate a nonlinear coupled integro-differential system involving generalized Hilfer fractional derivative operators ((k,ψ)-Hilfer type) of different orders and equipped with non-local multi-point ordinary and fractional integral boundary conditions. The uniqueness results for the given problem are obtained by applying Banach’s contraction mapping principle and the Boyd–Wong fixed point theorem for nonlinear contractions. Based on the Laray–Schauder alternative and the well-known fixed-point theorem due to Krasnosel’skiĭ, the existence of solutions for the problem at hand is established under different criteria. Illustrative examples for the main results are constructed.
A Convergence Criterion for a Class of Stationary Inclusions in Hilbert Spaces
Authors: Sofonea Mircea , Tarzia Domingo A.
Published: January 2024

Here, we consider a stationary inclusion in a real Hilbert space X, governed by a set of constraints K, a nonlinear operator A, and an element f∈X. Under appropriate assumptions on the data, the inclusion has a unique solution, denoted by u. We state and prove a covergence criterion, i.e., we provide necessary and sufficient conditions on a sequence {un}⊂X, which guarantee its convergence to the solution u. We then present several applications that provide the continuous dependence of the solution with respect to the data K, A and f on the one hand, and the convergence of an associate penalty problem on the other hand. We use these abstract results in the study of a frictional contact problem with elastic materials that, in a weak formulation, leads to a stationary inclusion for the deformation field. Finally, we apply the abstract penalty method in the analysis of two nonlinear elastic constitutive laws.
Reliability of Panoramic Ultrasound in Assessing Rectus Femoris Size, Shape, and Brightness: An Inter-Examiner Study
Authors: Buffet-García Jorge , Plaza-Manzano Gustavo , Varol Umut , Ríos-León Marta , Díaz-Arribas María José , Álvarez-González Javier , Sánchez-Jorge Sandra , Valera-Calero Juan Antonio
Published: January 2024

Extended field-of-view ultrasound (US) imaging, also known as panoramic US, represents a technical advance that allows for complete visualization of large musculoskeletal structures, which are often limited in conventional 2D US images. Currently, there is no evidence examining whether the experience of examiners influences muscle shape deformations that may arise during the glide of the transducer in panoramic US acquisition. As no studies using panoramic US have analyzed whether two examiners with differing levels of experience might obtain varying scores in size, shape, or brightness during the US assessment of the rectus femoris muscle, our aim was to analyze the inter-examiner reliability of panoramic US imaging acquisition in determining muscle size, shape, and brightness between two examiners. Additionally, we sought to investigate whether the examiners’ experience plays a significant role in muscle deformations during imaging acquisition by assessing score differences. Shape (circularity, aspect ratio, and roundness), size (cross-sectional area and perimeter), and brightness (mean echo intensity) were analyzed in 39 volunteers. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs), standard error of measurements (SEM), minimal detectable changes (MDC), and coefficient of absolute errors (CAE%) were calculated. All parameters evaluated showed no significant differences between the two examiners (p > 0.05). Panoramic US proved to be reliable, regardless of examiner experience, as no deformations were observed. Further research is needed to corroborate the validity of panoramic US by comparing this method with gold standard techniques.
Recent Advances in Metalloproteomics
Authors: Coverdale James P. C. , Polepalli Sirilata , Arruda Marco A. Z. , da Silva Ana B. Santos , Stewart Alan J. , Blindauer Claudia A.
Published: January 2024

Interactions between proteins and metal ions and their complexes are important in many areas of the life sciences, including physiology, medicine, and toxicology. Despite the involvement of essential elements in all major processes necessary for sustaining life, metalloproteomes remain ill-defined. This is not only owing to the complexity of metalloproteomes, but also to the non-covalent character of the complexes that most essential metals form, which complicates analysis. Similar issues may also be encountered for some toxic metals. The review discusses recently developed approaches and current challenges for the study of interactions involving entire (sub-)proteomes with such labile metal ions. In the second part, transition metals from the fourth and fifth periods are examined, most of which are xenobiotic and also tend to form more stable and/or inert complexes. A large research area in this respect concerns metallodrug–protein interactions. Particular attention is paid to separation approaches, as these need to be adapted to the reactivity of the metal under consideration.
An Anti-CD7 Antibody–Drug Conjugate Target Showing Potent Antitumor Activity for T-Lymphoblastic Leukemia (T-ALL)
Authors: Wang Shiqi , Zhang Ruyuan , Zhong Kunhong , Guo Wenhao , Tong Aiping
Published: January 2024

Acute T-lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) is a type of leukemia that can occur in both pediatric and adult populations. Compared to acute B-cell lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL), patients with T-cell T-ALL have a poorer therapeutic efficacy. In this study, a novel anti-CD7 antibody–drug conjugate (ADC, J87-Dxd) was successfully generated and used for T-ALL treatment. Firstly, to obtain anti-CD7 mAbs, we expressed and purified the CD7 protein extracellular domain. Utilizing hybridoma technology, we obtained three anti-CD7 mAbs (J87, G73 and A15) with a high affinity for CD7. Both the results of immunofluorescence and Biacore assay indicated that J87 (KD = 1.54 × 10−10 M) had the highest affinity among the three anti-CD7 mAbs. In addition, an internalization assay showed the internalization level of J87 to be higher than that of the other two mAbs. Next, we successfully generated the anti-CD7 ADC (J87-Dxd) by conjugating DXd to J87 via a cleavable maleimide-GGFG peptide linker. J87-Dxd also possessed the ability to recognize and bind CD7. Using J87-Dxd to treat T-ALL cells (Jurkat and CCRF-CEM), we observed that J87-Dxd bound to CD7 was internalized into T-ALL cells. Moreover, J87-Dxd treatment significantly induced the apoptosis of Jurkat and CCRF-CEM cells. The IC50 (half-maximal inhibitory concentration) value of J87-Dxd against CCRF-CEM obtained by CCK-8 assay was 6.3 nM. Finally, to assess the antitumor efficacy of a J87-Dxd in vivo, we established T-ALL mouse models and treated mice with J87-Dxd or J87. The results showed that on day 24 after tumor inoculation, all mice treated with J87 or PBS died, whereas the survival rate of mice treated with J87-Dxd was 80%. H&E staining showed no significant organic changes in the heart, liver, spleen, lungs and kidneys of all mice. In summary, we demonstrated that the novel anti-CD7 ADC (J87-Dxd) had a potent and selective effect against CD7-expressing T-All cells both in vitro and in vivo, and could thus be expected to be further developed as a new drug for the treatment of T-ALL or other CD7-expression tumors.
Site-Specific Transient Receptor Potential Channel Mechanisms and Their Characteristics for Targeted Chronic Itch Treatment
Authors: Go Eun Jin , Lee Ji Yeon , Kim Yong Ho , Park Chul-Kyu
Published: January 2024

Chronic itch is a debilitating condition with limited treatment options, severely affecting quality of life. The identification of pruriceptors has sparked a growing interest in the therapeutic potential of TRP channels in the context of itch. In this regard, we provided a comprehensive overview of the site-specific expression of TRP channels and their associated functions in response to a range of pruritogens. Although several potent antipruritic compounds that target specific TRP channels have been developed and have demonstrated efficacy in various chronic itch conditions through experimental means, a more thorough understanding of the potential for adverse effects or interactions with other TRP channels or GPCRs is necessary to develop novel and selective therapeutics that target TRP channels for treating chronic itch. This review focuses on the mechanism of itch associated with TRP channels at specific sites, from the skin to the sensory neuron, with the aim of suggesting specific therapeutic targets for treating this condition.
Construction of a Novel Damage-Associated Molecular-Pattern-Related Signature to Assess Lung Adenocarcinoma’s Prognosis and Immune Landscape
Authors: Liu Xinyue , Yao Shuxi , Feng Yanqi , Li Piao , Li Yiming , Xia Shu
Published: January 2024

Immunogenic death (ICD) stimulates adaptive immunity and affects immunotherapeutic efficacy, an important part of which is damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs). However, the function of these DAMPs for lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) remains obscure. We initially found differentially expressed genes (DEGs) with prognostic significance related to DAMPs with the TCGA database and then used the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression to create a risk signature strongly correlated with overall survival (OS) with eight DEGs. Validation was performed externally using the external data set GSE68465. Lower-risk LUAD patients were found to be more chemotherapy-resistant and enriched for more immune-related pathways than those with higher risk scores, and patients with different risks showed different levels of immune cell infiltration. PANX1, a crucial gene closely associated with lung adenocarcinoma, was identified using the weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA), and experiments revealed that PANX1 promotes the proliferation as well as invasion of LUAD cells. Furthermore, PANX1 was found to be positively correlated with CD274, CD276, and M2 macrophage markers. We developed and validated an entirely new gene signature related to DAMPs that may be useful for LUAD patient prognosis, immune microenvironment, and chemotherapeutic drug sensitivity prediction. The results may also guide clinical immunotherapy and chemotherapy approaches for LUAD patients.
Lymphocyte-Specific Protein 1 Regulates Expression and Stability of Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase
Authors: Smeir Musstafa , Chumala Paulos , Katselis George S. , Liu Lixin
Published: January 2024

Nitric oxide (NO), synthesized by endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), plays a critical role in blood pressure regulation. Genome-wide association studies have identified genetic susceptibility loci for hypertension in human lymphocyte-specific protein 1 (LSP1) gene. LSP1 is recognized as modulator of leukocyte extravasation, and endothelial permeability, however, the role of LSP1 in regulation of NO signaling within endothelial cells (ECs) remains unknown. The present study investigated the role of LSP1 in the regulation of eNOS expression and activity utilizing human macrovascular ECs in vitro and LSP1 knockout (KO) mice. In ECs, specific CRISPR-Cas9 genomic editing deleted LSP1 and caused downregulation of eNOS expression. LSP1 gain-of-function through adenovirus-mediated gene transfer was associated with enhanced expression of eNOS. Co-immunoprecipitation and confocal fluorescence microscopy revealed that eNOS and LSP1 formed a protein complex under basal conditions in ECs. Furthermore, LSP1 deficiency in mice promoted significant upregulation and instability of eNOS. Utilizing a mass-spectrometry-based bottom-up proteomics approach, we identified novel truncated forms of eNOS in immunoprecipitates from LSP1 KO aortae. Our experimental data suggest an important role of endothelial LSP1 in regulation of eNOS expression and activity within human ECs and murine vascular tissues.
The Relationship between Time, Race, and Estrogen Receptor Alpha in Estradiol-Induced Dermal Fibrosis
Authors: Baker Frost DeAnna , Savchenko Alisa , Feghali-Bostwick Carol , Wolf Bethany
Published: January 2024

In the skin, estradiol (E2) promotes profibrotic and proinflammatory cytokines, contributing to extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition. However, the magnitude of the response differs. Using the human skin organ culture model, we evaluated donor characteristics and correlations that contribute to E2-induced interleukin-6 (IL-6), transforming growth factor beta 1 and 2 (TGFB1 and TGFB2), collagen IA2 (Col IA2), collagen IIIA1 (Col IIIA1), and fibronectin (FN) expressions. In vehicle- and E2-treated dermal skin tissue transcripts, we confirm differences in the magnitude; however, there were positive correlations between profibrotic mediators and ECM components 48 h after E2 treatment. Also, positive correlations exist between baseline and E2-induced TGFB1, IL-6, Col IIIA1, and FN transcripts. Since estrogen receptor alpha (ERA) can propagate E2′s signal, we measured and detected differences in its baseline and fold change transcript levels, with a significant decline in baseline levels 48 h after incubation and an increase 48 h after E2 treatment. There was a trend to higher transcript levels in African American donors 24 h earlier. Finally, E2-induced ERA transcript levels negatively correlated with its own baseline levels and positively correlated with FN, TGFB1, and Col IA2 transcript levels. Therefore, our data suggest ERA, E2 exposure time, and race/ethnicity contribute to E2-induced dermal fibrosis.
Cannabinerol (CBNR) Influences Synaptic Genes Associated with Cytoskeleton and Ion Channels in NSC-34 Cell Line: A Transcriptomic Study
Authors: Artimagnella Osvaldo , Mazzon Emanuela , Salamone Stefano , Pollastro Federica , Gugliandolo Agnese , Chiricosta Luigi
Published: January 2024

Cannabinoids are receiving great attention as a novel approach in the treatment of cognitive and motor disabilities, which characterize neurological disorders. To date, over 100 phytocannabinoids have been extracted from Cannabis sativa, and some of them have shown neuroprotective properties and the capacity to influence synaptic transmission. In this study, we investigated the effects of a less-known phytocannabinoid, cannabinerol (CBNR), on neuronal physiology. Using the NSC-34 motor-neuron-like cell line and next-generation sequencing analysis, we discovered that CBNR influences synaptic genes associated with synapse organization and specialization, including genes related to the cytoskeleton and ion channels. Specifically, the calcium, sodium, and potassium channel subunits (Cacna1b, Cacna1c, Cacnb1, Grin1, Scn8a, Kcnc1, Kcnj9) were upregulated, along with genes related to NMDAR (Agap3, Syngap1) and calcium (Cabp1, Camkv) signaling. Moreover, cytoskeletal and cytoskeleton-associated genes (Actn2, Ina, Trio, Marcks, Bsn, Rtn4, Dgkz, Htt) were also regulated by CBNR. These findings highlight the important role played by CBNR in the regulation of synaptogenesis and synaptic transmission, suggesting the need for further studies to evaluate the neuroprotective role of CBNR in the treatment of synaptic dysfunctions that characterize motor disabilities in many neurological disorders.
Recent Advances in Electrochemical Detection of Cell Energy Metabolism
Authors: Koo Kyeong-Mo , Kim Chang-Dae , Kim Tae-Hyung
Published: January 2024

Cell energy metabolism is a complex and multifaceted process by which some of the most important nutrients, particularly glucose and other sugars, are transformed into energy. This complexity is a result of dynamic interactions between multiple components, including ions, metabolic intermediates, and products that arise from biochemical reactions, such as glycolysis and mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), the two main metabolic pathways that provide adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the main source of chemical energy driving various physiological activities. Impaired cell energy metabolism and perturbations or dysfunctions in associated metabolites are frequently implicated in numerous diseases, such as diabetes, cancer, and neurodegenerative and cardiovascular disorders. As a result, altered metabolites hold value as potential disease biomarkers. Electrochemical biosensors are attractive devices for the early diagnosis of many diseases and disorders based on biomarkers due to their advantages of efficiency, simplicity, low cost, high sensitivity, and high selectivity in the detection of anomalies in cellular energy metabolism, including key metabolites involved in glycolysis and mitochondrial processes, such as glucose, lactate, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH), reactive oxygen species (ROS), glutamate, and ATP, both in vivo and in vitro. This paper offers a detailed examination of electrochemical biosensors for the detection of glycolytic and mitochondrial metabolites, along with their many applications in cell chips and wearable sensors.
Styrene Production in Genetically Engineered Escherichia coli in a Two-Phase Culture
Authors: Noda Shuhei , Fujiwara Ryosuke , Mori Yutaro , Dainin Mayumi , Shirai Tomokazu , Kondo Akihiko
Published: January 2024

Styrene is an important industrial chemical. Although several studies have reported microbial styrene production, the amount of styrene produced in batch cultures can be increased. In this study, styrene was produced using genetically engineered Escherichia coli. First, we evaluated five types of phenylalanine ammonia lyases (PALs) from Arabidopsis thaliana (AtPAL) and Brachypodium distachyon (BdPAL) for their ability to produce trans-cinnamic acid (Cin), a styrene precursor. AtPAL2-expressing E. coli produced approximately 700 mg/L of Cin and we found that BdPALs could convert Cin into styrene. To assess styrene production, we constructed an E. coli strain that co-expressed AtPAL2 and ferulic acid decarboxylase from Saccharomyces cerevisiae. After a biphasic culture with oleyl alcohol, styrene production and yield from glucose were 3.1 g/L and 26.7% (mol/mol), respectively, which, to the best of our knowledge, are the highest values obtained in batch cultivation. Thus, this strain can be applied to the large–scale industrial production of styrene.
Imagine Being Humble: Integrating Imagined Intergroup Contact and Cultural Humility to Foster Inclusive Intergroup Relations
Authors: Visintin Emilio Paolo , Rullo Marika , Lo Destro Calogero
Published: January 2024

To reduce prejudice and to promote intergroup harmony and equality, the imagined intergroup contact technique, based on the mental simulation of an encounter with an outgroup member, has been proposed. Though a substantial body of research has provided support for the efficacy of imagined intergroup contact in prejudice reduction, an alternative strand of research has raised questions about its effectiveness. In this experiment, we combined imagined intergroup contact with cultural humility, that is, an other-oriented, humble approach toward people with different cultural backgrounds, recognizing status and power imbalances and privileges. Specifically, we tested whether instructions aimed at eliciting cultural humility during imagined contact boosted its effectiveness in reducing prejudice and promoting future contact intentions, compared to a standard imagined contact condition and to a control imagination task. Intergroup anxiety was tested as a mediator of the effects of culturally humble imagined contact on reduced prejudice and on future contact intentions. We found that culturally humble imagined contact, compared to the two other conditions, reduced intergroup anxiety and yielded indirect effects on reduced prejudice and increased future contact intentions. The findings will be discussed by focusing on the integration of cultural humility in prejudice reduction techniques based on intergroup contact.
Effects of Impulsivity and Interpersonal Problems on Adolescent Depression: A Cross-Lagged Study
Authors: Yang Yanan , Tian Mingyangjia , Liu Yu , Qiu Shaojie , Hu Yuan , Yang Yang , Wang Chenxu , Xu Zhansheng , Lin Lin
Published: January 2024

The dynamic changes over time in the relationships between impulsivity, interpersonal problems, and depression warrant further exploration. This study delves into the roles of impulsivity and interpersonal issues in the progression of adolescent depression over a year, using a sample of 271 Chinese adolescents (51.7% male, Mage = 12.60 ± 0.69). At three time points, impulsivity levels were assessed with the Chinese version of the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale-11, interpersonal problems with the Adolescent Self-Rating Life Events Check List, and depression with the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale. Results revealed that both impulsivity and interpersonal problems serve as risk factors for depression, but the primary risk factor shifted over time. In early middle school stages, impulsivity was the predominant risk factor, while in later stages, interpersonal problems became the primary risk factor. These findings carry significant implications for directing prevention efforts and interventions for adolescent depression.
Spatial Parameters Determining Urban Wellbeing: A Behavioral Experiment
Authors: Trossman Haifler Yaala , Fisher-Gewirtzman Dafna
Published: January 2024

In today’s rapid urbanization process around the world, understanding the impact of environmental parameters on urban dwellers’ wellbeing is more important than ever. In this paper, we explored the influence of 3D spatial and physical factors on the wellbeing of urban dwellers. Twenty-one virtual environments comprised three street sections, five building morphologies, and two densification rates, and were rated by 147 study participants. Our findings indicate that all three parameters (street sections, building morphology, and density rates) can be used to independently predict urban wellbeing. This research presents a milestone in understanding the complex relationships between street sections, building morphology, and perceived density on urban wellbeing. The outcomes of this study can be implemented by urban designers, architects, and researchers, with the aim of creating more wellbeing-centered urban designs.
Integrating Image Processing and Machine Learning for the Non-Destructive Assessment of RC Beams Damage
Authors: Naderpour Hosein , Abbasi Mohammad , Kontoni Denise-Penelope N. , Mirrashid Masoomeh , Ezami Nima , Savvides Ambrosios-Antonios
Published: January 2024

Non-destructive testing (NDT) is a crucial method for detecting damages in concrete structures. Structural damage can lead to functional changes, necessitating a range of damage detection techniques. Non-destructive methods enable the pinpointing of the location of the damage without causing harm to the structure, thus saving both time and money. Damaged structures exhibit alterations in their static and dynamic properties, primarily stemming from a reduction in stiffness. Monitoring these changes allows for the determination of the failure location and severity, facilitating timely repairs and reinforcement before further deterioration occurs. A systematic approach to damage detection and assessment is pivotal for fortifying structures and preventing structural collapse, which can result in both financial and human losses. In this study, we employ image processing to categorize damaged beams based on their crack growth and propagation patterns. We also utilize support vector machine (SVM) and k-nearest neighbor (KNN) methods to detect the type, location, and extent of failures in reinforced concrete beams. To provide context and relevance for the laboratory specimens, we will compare our findings to the results from controlled experiments in a controlled laboratory setting.
Driving Peru’s Road Infrastructure: An Analysis of Public–Private Partnerships, Challenges, and Critical Success Factors
Authors: Cisneros-Herrera Diego , Lara-Galera Antonio , Alcaraz Carrillo de Albornoz Vicente , Muñoz-Medina Belén
Published: January 2024

Peru has experienced significant growth but faces challenges with its infrastructure. Despite economic and population growth, competitiveness has not risen at the same pace. The importance of proper roads for economic development and the lack of planning have led the country to confront an infrastructure deficit. This deficit affects connectivity and the quality of the road networks, thereby influencing competitiveness. To bridge this gap, the PPP modality had been used, but challenges were encountered, ranging from the execution of works to maintenance issues. This research study pursues three main objectives: to describe the current landscape of road infrastructure in Peru; to present the Peruvian PPP system and the experience gained through implemented concession contracts; and to identify the critical success factors of Peruvian concessions and propose an evaluation methodology for future contracts. To achieve this, an empirical study of 16 operational road PPPs and a literature review of the most relevant international experiences on success variables for such contracts were conducted. The primary contribution of this study lies in presenting the Peruvian experience and identifying key success factors for this type of contracts in Peru.
Post-Construction Defects in Multi-Unit Australian Dwellings: An Analysis of the Defect Type, Causes, Risks, and Impacts
Authors: Denman Michael , Ullah Fahim , Qayyum Siddra , Olatunji Oluwole
Published: January 2024

Due to the rising prices of houses and rent, apartment buildings have become the preferred and most utilized dwellings in Australia. However, there have been cases of serious defects in multi-unit dwellings (apartment buildings), posing various risks to and reducing potential residents’ confidence in such dwellings. To address this issue, the current study investigated the types, causes, risk severity, and impacts of defects on residents in mid- to high-rise multi-unit dwellings in Australia. The study utilized a mixed approach involving quantitative (online questionnaire) and qualitative (interviews) methods. Data were collected from 104 apartment building residents in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia, with support from interviews with six experienced local construction professionals. The results revealed that there are 11 key defects present in local apartment buildings, with waterproofing, internal finishes, and structural issues being the most frequently reported. Residents typically report these defects to building owners, agents, and managers, who take more than three months, on average, to rectify them, adding to the residents’ psychological issues and their inability to use the property as intended. The reasons for the delayed rectification of defects include non-responsive owners, agents, and building management teams, scheduling conflicts, litigation, and high costs. The interviewed professionals acknowledged the presence of defects and identified the reliance on Design and Construct (D&C) and fixed price contracts, lack of public awareness, and absence of a system to capture builders’ reputation, as well as a manipulative quality check system, as key reasons for defects. This study addresses the defect concerns in multi-unit Australian dwellings (apartments) and expects to spark a much-needed debate around reforms in the construction sector to address these issues and minimize their risks and impact on residents.
Assessment of Households’ Perceptions of Health Co-Benefits in Relation to the Willingness to Undertake Energy Retrofits in Barcelona
Authors: Benites-Aguilar Carlos , Marmolejo-Duarte Carlos
Published: January 2024

Energy retrofits have, so far, been studied from the perspective of economic benefits that undertaking energy retrofit brings. They have also been of interest in the pursuit of reducing carbon emissions. However, few have studied the perception of health co-benefits of energy retrofits. Therefore, this paper seeks to shed light on how the residents’ perception of their health affects their decision to undertake an energetic retrofit. The focus of this article is to determine how residents perceive their health and their willingness to undertake energy retrofits to improve their health in the municipality of Barcelona. The methods used were in-depth interviews with experts and face-to-face and surveys conducted online. The results were analysed using descriptive, segmental, and unconditional logistic regression. We also analysed if awareness of the health co-benefits of retrofits corresponded with the respondent’s housing conditions, socio-demographics, and willingness to energy retrofit their homes. A total of 127 participants were included, of which 6.3% listed health co-benefit improvements as an influencing factor in undertaking an energy retrofit. The survey findings show that the less educated households are less aware of the health co-benefits of energy retrofits. These findings reveal the need to re-evaluate the current energy and housing policies.
Construction Quality Control for Rutting Resistance of Asphalt Pavement Using BIM Technology
Authors: Zhao Yulong , Ren Jiaolong , Zhang Ke , Luo Yaofei , Wang Kun
Published: January 2024

During the course of building asphalt pavement, a lack of quality control will lead to the abandonment of the asphalt mixtures. One of the most common problems with asphalt pavement is rutting. Improving the construction’s quality is an important measure to reduce rutting. The purpose is to ensure the high-temperature durability of asphalt mixtures during the construction workflow to reduce the waste of asphalt mixtures, as well as to provide a methodology for the current monitoring of the quality based on the building information modeling (BIM). Rutting resistance was appraised utilizing the static uniaxial creep examination. Oblique photography technology was used to obtain terrain data. The software of Revit 2016 was used to build the spatial model of highways and bridges. The results show that the size distribution of particles, the asphalt proportion, and the forming specimen’s temperature are the vital elements influencing the high-temperature behavior. The gradation was identified as the most important factor. The second was the asphalt binder content. Gradation variation should be given more consideration during paving using asphalt mixtures. Furthermore, the developed BIM platform can also monitor rutting resistance to reduce rework during construction.
Hypofractionated Radiotherapy in Gynecologic Malignancies—A Peek into the Upcoming Evidence
Authors: Amjad Razan , Moldovan Nataliya , Raziee Hamid , Leung Eric , D’Souza David , Mendez Lucas C.
Published: January 2024

Radiotherapy (RT) has a fundamental role in the treatment of gynecologic malignancies, including cervical and uterine cancers. Hypofractionated RT has gained popularity in many cancer sites, boosted by technological advances in treatment delivery and image verification. Hypofractionated RT uptake was intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic and has the potential to improve universal access to radiotherapy worldwide, especially in low-resource settings. This review summarizes the rationale, the current challenges and investigation efforts, together with the recent developments associated with hypofractionated RT in gynecologic malignancies. A comprehensive search was undertaken using multiple databases and ongoing trial registries. In the definitive radiotherapy setting for cervical cancers, there are several ongoing clinical trials from Canada, Mexico, Iran, the Philippines and Thailand investigating the role of a moderate hypofractionated external beam RT regimen in the low-risk locally advanced population. Likewise, there are ongoing ultra and moderate hypofractionated RT trials in the uterine cancer setting. One Canadian prospective trial of stereotactic hypofractionated adjuvant RT for uterine cancer patients suggested a good tolerance to this treatment strategy in the acute setting, with a follow-up trial currently randomizing patients between conventional fractionation and the hypofractionated dose regimen delivered in the former trial. Although not yet ready for prime-time use, hypofractionated RT could be a potential solution to several challenges that limit access to and the utilization of radiotherapy for gynecologic cancer patients worldwide.