bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AVO-Friendly Velocity Analysis Based on the High-Resolution PCA-Weighted Semblance
Authors: Zhang Chunlin , Fan Liyong , Chen Guiting , Li Jijun
Published: June 2022

Velocity analysis using the semblance spectrum can provide an effective velocity model for advanced seismic imaging technology, in which the picking accuracy of velocity analysis is significantly affected by the resolution of the semblance spectrum. However, the peak broadening of the conventional semblance spectrum leads to picking uncertainty, and it cannot deal with the amplitude-variation-with-offset (AVO) phenomenon. The well-known AB semblance can process the AVO anomalies, but it has a lower resolution compared with conventional semblance. To improve the resolution of the AB semblance spectrum, we propose a new weighted AB semblance based on principal component analysis (PCA). The principal components or eigenvalues of seismic events are highly sensitive to the components with spatial coherence. Thus, we utilized the principal components of the normal moveout (NMO)-corrected seismic events with different scanning velocities to construct a weighting function. The new function not only has a high resolution for velocity scanning, but it is also a friendly method for the AVO phenomenon. Numerical experiments with the synthetic and field seismic data sets proved that the new method significantly improves resolution and can provide more accurate picked velocities compared with conventional methods.
Effectiveness and Safety of ANTI SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination in Transplant Patients Treated with Immunosuppressants: A Real-World Pilot Study with a 1-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Caglioti Alfredo , Rania Vincenzo , Vocca Cristina , Marcianò Gianmarco , Arcidiacono Valentina , Catarisano Luca , Casarella Alessandro , Basile Emanuele , Colosimo Manuela , Palleria Caterina , Mazzuca Daniela , Di Mizio Giulio , De Sarro Caterina , Pileggi Claudia , De Sarro Giovambattista , Gallelli Luca
Published: June 2022

SARS-CoV-2 is a betacoronavirus, which induced a severe pandemic infectious disease around the world. Even if several drugs have been suggested for its treatment, to date, the only strategy to reduce the severity of disease is represented by the use of vaccine. However, the lack of pre-marketing evidence in frail patients suggests the necessity of the real-world study of a vaccine benefit–risk profile. In this study, we evaluated the efficacy and the safety of SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in a cohort of 33 patients treated with an immunosuppressant after solid organ transplant. Both CLIA and LS/MS analysis were used to evaluate the levels of immunoglobulin (Ig)G anti SARS-CoV-2 and the therapeutic drug monitoring of immunosuppressant drugs. We documented that SARS-CoV-2 vaccination induced a dose- and gender-related serological response. In particular, in 63.6% of the enrolled patients, we documented a significant serological response at T2, and after a time related decrease, the booster dose induced a serological response in 72.7% of enrolled patients. In conclusion, the vaccine anti SARS-CoV-2 is immunogenic in patients under immunosuppression, and is not related to the development of ADRs. We also suggest that the booster dose could be used to increase the efficacy of the vaccination, particularly in women.
1905 and Art: From Aesthetes to Revolutionaries
Authors: Lodder Christina
Published: June 2022

This article examines the impact that the experience of the 1905 Revolution had on the political attitudes of professional artists of various creative persuasions and on the younger generation who were still attending art schools. It inevitably focuses on a few representatives and argues that Realists as well as more innovative artists like Valentin Serov and the World of Art group became critical of the regime and began to produce works satirizing the Tsar and his government. These artists did not, however, take their disenchantment further and express a particular ideology in their works or join any specific political party. The author also suggests that the Revolution affected art students like Mikhail Larionov and Natalia Goncharova, who subsequently became leaders of the avant-garde and developed the style known as Neo-Primitivism. The influence of 1905 can be seen in their pursuit of creative freedom, the subjects they chose, and the distinctly anti-establishment ethos that emerged in their Neo-Primitivist works around 1910.
Genetic Algorithm-Optimized Extreme Learning Machine Model for Estimating Daily Reference Evapotranspiration in Southwest China
Authors: Liu Quanshan , Wu Zongjun , Cui Ningbo , Zhang Wenjiang , Wang Yaosheng , Hu Xiaotao , Gong Daozhi , Zheng Shunsheng
Published: June 2022

Reference evapotranspiration (ET0) is an essential component in hydrological and ecological processes. The Penman–Monteith (PM) model of Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) model requires a number of meteorological parameters; it is urgent to develop high-precision and computationally efficient ET0 models with fewer parameter inputs. This study proposed the genetic algorithm (GA) to optimize extreme learning machine (ELM), and evaluated the performances of ELM, GA-ELM, and empirical models for estimating daily ET0 in Southwest China. Daily meteorological data including maximum temperature (Tmax), minimum temperature (Tmin), wind speed (u2), relative humidity (RH), net radiation (Rn), and global solar radiation (Rs) during 1992–2016 from meteorological stations were used for model training and testing. The results from the FAO-56 Penman–Monteith formula were used as a control group. The results showed that GA-ELM models (with R2 ranging 0.71–0.99, RMSE ranging 0.036–0.77 mm·d−1) outperformed the standalone ELM models (with R2 ranging 0.716–0.99, RMSE ranging 0.08–0.77 mm·d−1) during training and testing, both of which were superior to empirical models (with R2 ranging 0.36–0.91, RMSE ranging 0.69–2.64 mm·d−1). ET0 prediction accuracy varies with different input combination models. The machine learning models using Tmax, Tmin, u2, RH, and Rn/Rs (GA-ELM5/GA-ELM4 and ELM5/ELM4) obtained the best ET0 estimates, with R2 ranging 0.98–0.99, RMSE ranging 0.03–0.21 mm·d−1, followed by models with Tmax, Tmin, and Rn/Rs (GA-ELM3/GA-ELM2 and ELM3/ELM2) as inputs. The machine learning models involved with Rn outperformed those with Rs when the quantity of input parameters was the same. Overall, GA-ELM5 (Tmax, Tmin, u2, RH and Rn as inputs) outperformed the other models during training and testing, and was thus recommended for daily ET0 estimation. With the estimation accuracy, computational costs, and availability of input parameters accounted, GA-ELM2 (Tmax, Tmin, and Rs as inputs) was determined to be the most effective model for estimating daily ET0 with limited meteorological data in Southwest China.
Parameter Estimation of the Exponentiated Pareto Distribution Using Ranked Set Sampling and Simple Random Sampling
Authors: Khamnei Hossein Jabbari , Meidute-Kavaliauskiene Ieva , Fathi Masood , Valackienė Asta , Ghorbani Shahryar
Published: June 2022

In this paper, we have considered that ranked set sampling is able to estimate the parameters of exponentiated Pareto distribution. The method with which the maximum likelihood estimators for the parameters of exponentiated Pareto distribution is studied is numerical since there is no presence or possibility of a closed-form at the hands of estimators or any other intellectual. The numerical approach is a well-suited one for this study as there has been struggles in achieving it with any other technique. In order to compare the different sampling methods, simulation studies are performed as the main technique. As for the illustrative purposes, analysis of a simulated dataset is desired for the objective of the presentation. The conclusion that we can reach based on these is that the estimators based on the ranked set sample have far better efficiency than the simple random sample at the same sample size.
Metal Substitution versus Oxygen-Storage Modifier to Regulate the Oxygen Redox Reactions in Sodium-Deficient Three-Layered Oxides
Authors: Kalapsazova Mariya , Kukeva Rositsa , Zhecheva Ekaterina , Stoyanova Radostina
Published: June 2022

Sodium-deficient nickel-manganese oxides with three-layered stacking exhibit the unique property of dual nickel-oxygen redox activity, which allows them to achieve enormous specific capacity. The challenge is how to stabilize the oxygen redox activity during cycling. This study demonstrates that oxygen redox activity of P3-Na2/3Ni1/2Mn1/2O2 during both Na+ and Li+ intercalation can be regulated by the design of oxide architecture that includes target metal substituents (such as Mg2+ and Ti4+) and oxygen storage modifiers (such as CeO2). Although the substitution for nickel with Ti4+ amplifies the oxygen redox activity and intensifies the interaction of oxides with NaPF6- and LiPF6-based electrolytes, the Mg2+ substituents influence mainly the nickel redox activity and suppress the deposition of electrolyte decomposed products (such as MnF2). The CeO2-modifier has a much stronger effect on the oxygen redox activity than that of metal substituents; thus, the highest specific capacity is attained. In addition, the CeO2-modifier tunes the electrode–electrode interaction by eliminating the deposition of MnF2. As a result, the Mg-substituted oxide modified with CeO2 displays high capacity, excellent cycling stability and exceptional rate capability when used as cathode in Na-ion cell, while in Li-ion cell, the best performance is achieved for Ti-substituted oxide modified by CeO2.
Simulating In Vitro the Bone Healing Potential of a Degradable and Tailored Multifunctional Mg-Based Alloy Platform
Authors: Martin Victor , Garcia Mónica , Montemor Maria de Fátima , Fernandes João Carlos Salvador , Gomes Pedro Sousa , Fernandes Maria Helena
Published: June 2022

This work intended to elucidate, in an in vitro approach, the cellular and molecular mechanisms occurring during the bone healing process, upon implantation of a tailored degradable multifunctional Mg-based alloy. This was prepared by a conjoining anodization of the bare alloy (AZ31) followed by the deposition of a polymeric coating functionalized with hydroxyapatite. Human endothelial cells and osteoblastic and osteoclastic differentiating cells were exposed to the extracts from the multifunctional platform (having a low degradation rate), as well as the underlying anodized and original AZ31 alloy (with higher degradation rates). Extracts from the multifunctional coated alloy did not affect cellular behavior, although a small inductive effect was observed in the proliferation and gene expression of endothelial and osteoblastic cells. Extracts from the higher degradable anodized and original alloys induced the expression of some endothelial genes and, also, ALP and TRAP activities, further increasing the expression of some early differentiation osteoblastic and osteoclastic genes. The integration of these results in a translational approach suggests that, following the implantation of a tailored degradable Mg-based material, the absence of initial deleterious effects would favor the early stages of bone repair and, subsequently, the on-going degradation of the coating and the subjacent alloy would increase bone metabolism dynamics favoring a faster bone formation and remodeling process and enhancing bone healing.
A Comparison of Computer-Aided Diagnosis Schemes Optimized Using Radiomics and Deep Transfer Learning Methods
Authors: Danala Gopichandh , Maryada Sai Kiran , Islam Warid , Faiz Rowzat , Jones Meredith , Qiu Yuchen , Zheng Bin
Published: June 2022

Objective: Radiomics and deep transfer learning are two popular technologies used to develop computer-aided detection and diagnosis (CAD) schemes of medical images. This study aims to investigate and to compare the advantages and the potential limitations of applying these two technologies in developing CAD schemes. Methods: A relatively large and diverse retrospective dataset including 3000 digital mammograms was assembled in which 1496 images depicted malignant lesions and 1504 images depicted benign lesions. Two CAD schemes were developed to classify breast lesions. The first scheme was developed using four steps namely, applying an adaptive multi-layer topographic region growing algorithm to segment lesions, computing initial radiomics features, applying a principal component algorithm to generate an optimal feature vector, and building a support vector machine classifier. The second CAD scheme was built based on a pre-trained residual net architecture (ResNet50) as a transfer learning model to classify breast lesions. Both CAD schemes were trained and tested using a 10-fold cross-validation method. Several score fusion methods were also investigated to classify breast lesions. CAD performances were evaluated and compared by the areas under the ROC curve (AUC). Results: The ResNet50 model-based CAD scheme yielded AUC = 0.85 ± 0.02, which was significantly higher than the radiomics feature-based CAD scheme with AUC = 0.77 ± 0.02 (p < 0.01). Additionally, the fusion of classification scores generated by the two CAD schemes did not further improve classification performance. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that using deep transfer learning is more efficient to develop CAD schemes and it enables a higher lesion classification performance than CAD schemes developed using radiomics-based technology.
Impact of FLT3-ITD Insertion Length on Outcomes in Acute Myeloid Leukemia: A Propensity Score-Adjusted Cohort Study
Authors: Corley Elizabeth M. , Mustafa Ali Moaath K. , Alharthy Hanan , Kline Kathryn A. F. , Sewell Danielle , Law Jennie Y. , Lee Seung Tae , Niyongere Sandrine , Duong Vu H. , Baer Maria R. , Emadi Ashkan
Published: June 2022

The prognostic significance of the length of internal tandem duplication (ITD) insertions in mutant FLT3 genes in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is controversial. We conducted a retrospective study to evaluate the correlation between the ITD base-pair (bp) insertion length and clinical outcomes. The mutational status of the FLT3 gene was evaluated in 402 of 467 consecutive AML patients treated at the University of Maryland Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center between 2013 and 2020; 77 had FLT3-ITD mutations. Patients were divided into three cohorts based on bp insertion length (<30 (0–33rd percentile), 30–53 (34th–66th percentile),and >53 (>66th percentile)). The median overall survival (OS) of patients was 16.5 months (confidence interval (CI) 7.3-NA), 18.5 months (CI 7.3-NA), and 21.9 months (CI 19.1-NA) (p = 0.03) for the <30, 30–53, and >53 bp insertion length cohorts, respectively. The adjusted median event-free survival (EFS) for the ITD insertion lengths >30, 30–53, and >53 bp was 11.1 months (CI 2.8–16.5), 5.2 months (CI 2.9–12.6), and 9.1 months (CI 5.4-NA) (p = 0.5), respectively. Complete remission (CR) rates were 64% (<30 inserted bp), 55% (30–53 inserted bp), and 79% (>53 inserted bp) (p = 0.23). For patients treated with gilteritinib and midostaurin, the unadjusted median OS was not statistically significantly different between cohorts.
Non-Equilibrium Protein Folding and Activation by ATP-Driven Chaperones
Authors: Xu Huafeng
Published: June 2022

Recent experimental studies suggest that ATP-driven molecular chaperones can stabilize protein substrates in their native structures out of thermal equilibrium. The mechanism of such non-equilibrium protein folding is an open question. Based on available structural and biochemical evidence, I propose here a unifying principle that underlies the conversion of chemical energy from ATP hydrolysis to the conformational free energy associated with protein folding and activation. I demonstrate that non-equilibrium folding requires the chaperones to break at least one of four symmetry conditions. The Hsp70 and Hsp90 chaperones each break a different subset of these symmetries and thus they use different mechanisms for non-equilibrium protein folding. I derive an upper bound on the non-equilibrium elevation of the native concentration, which implies that non-equilibrium folding only occurs in slow-folding proteins that adopt an unstable intermediate conformation in binding to ATP-driven chaperones. Contrary to the long-held view of Anfinsen’s hypothesis that proteins fold to their conformational free energy minima, my results predict that some proteins may fold into thermodynamically unstable native structures with the assistance of ATP-driven chaperones, and that the native structures of some chaperone-dependent proteins may be shaped by their chaperone-mediated folding pathways.
Optimization and Characterization of a Novel Exopolysaccharide from Bacillus haynesii CamB6 for Food Applications
Authors: Banerjee Aparna , Mohammed Breig Sura Jasem , Gómez Aleydis , Sánchez-Arévalo Ignacio , González-Faune Patricio , Sarkar Shrabana , Bandopadhyay Rajib , Vuree Sugunakar , Cornejo Jorge , Tapia Jaime , Bravo Gaston , Cabrera-Barjas Gustavo
Published: June 2022

Extremophilic microorganisms often produce novel bioactive compounds to survive under harsh environmental conditions. Exopolysaccharides (EPSs), a constitutive part of bacterial biofilm, are functional biopolymers that act as a protecting sheath to the extremophilic bacteria and are of high industrial value. In this study, we elucidate a new EPS produced by thermophilic Bacillus haynesii CamB6 from a slightly acidic (pH 5.82) Campanario hot spring (56.4 °C) located in the Central Andean Mountains of Chile. Physicochemical properties of the EPS were characterized by different techniques: Scanning electron microscopy- energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), Gel permeation chromatography (GPC), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), 1D and 2D Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), and Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The EPS demonstrated amorphous surface roughness composed of evenly distributed macromolecular lumps. GPC and HPLC analysis showed that the EPS is a low molecular weight heteropolymer composed of mannose (66%), glucose (20%), and galactose (14%). FTIR analysis demonstrated the polysaccharide nature (–OH groups, Acetyl groups, and pyranosic ring structure) and the presence of different glycosidic linkages among sugar residues, which was further confirmed by NMR spectroscopic analyses. Moreover, D-mannose α-(1→2) and α-(1→4) linkages prevail in the CamB6 EPS structure. TGA revealed the high thermal stability (240 °C) of the polysaccharide. The functional properties of the EPS were evaluated for food industry applications, specifically as an antioxidant and for its emulsification, water-holding (WHC), oil-holding (OHC), and flocculation capacities. The results suggest that the study EPS can be a useful additive for the food-processing industry.
Predictive Value of Serum Uric Acid to HDL Cholesterol Ratio for Incident Ischemic Heart Disease in Non-Diabetic Koreans
Authors: Park Byoungjin , Jung Dong-Hyuk , Lee Yong-Jae
Published: June 2022

HDL cholesterol, besides its function in lipid metabolism, plays a role in suppressing blood oxidation reactions and protecting vascular endothelial cells. The uric acid/HDL cholesterol ratio (UHR) has recently attracted attention as a new biomarker for evaluating interactions between inflammatory and anti-inflammatory substances in the blood. This study aimed to investigate the longitudinal association between UHR and incident ischemic heart disease (IHD). Data from 16,455 participants without diabetes from the Health Risk Assessment Study (HERAS) and Korean Health Insurance Review and Assessment (HIRA) were assessed. Over 50 months after baseline enrolment, 321 (2.0%) participants developed IHD. The HRs of incident IHD were 0.85 (95% CI, 0.55–1.29), 1.42 (95% CI, 0.94–2.13), and 1.57 (95% CI, 1.01–2.45) in the second, third, and fourth UHR quartiles, respectively, after adjusting for potential confounding variables. In the subgroup analysis by sex-specific quartile, women tended to have higher HRs in the highest UHR quartile. We found that high UHR values were positively associated with incident IHD in Koreans without diabetes. An increased UHR may be a useful measure by which to assess cardiovascular risk in the preclinical stage.
Frailty in Aging and the Search for the Optimal Biomarker: A Review
Authors: Sepúlveda Magdalena , Arauna Diego , García Francisco , Albala Cecilia , Palomo Iván , Fuentes Eduardo
Published: June 2022

In the context of accelerated aging of the population worldwide, frailty has emerged as one of the main risk factors that can lead to loss of self-sufficiency in older people. This syndrome is defined as a reduced state of physiological reserve and functional capacity. The main diagnostic tools for frailty are based on scales that show deficits compared to their clinical application, such as the Fried frailty phenotype, among others. In this context, it is important to have one or more biomarkers with clinical applicability that can objectively and precisely determine the degree or risk of frailty in older people. The objective of this review was to analyze the biomarkers associated with frailty, classified according to the pathophysiological components of this syndrome (inflammation, coagulation, antioxidants, and liver function, among others). The evidence demonstrates that biomarkers associated with inflammation, oxidative stress, skeletal/cardiac muscle function, and platelet function represent the most promising markers of frailty due to their pathophysiological association with this syndrome. To a lesser extent but with the possibility of greater innovation, biomarkers associated with growth factors, vitamins, amino acids, and miRNAs represent alternatives as markers of this geriatric syndrome. Likewise, the incorporation of artificial intelligence represents an interesting approach to strengthening the diagnosis of frailty by biomarkers.
Recent Advances in DNA Nanotechnology for Plasmonic Biosensor Construction
Authors: Park Jeong Ah , Amri Chaima , Kwon Yein , Lee Jin-Ho , Lee Taek
Published: June 2022

Since 2010, DNA nanotechnology has advanced rapidly, helping overcome limitations in the use of DNA solely as genetic material. DNA nanotechnology has thus helped develop a new method for the construction of biosensors. Among bioprobe materials for biosensors, nucleic acids have shown several advantages. First, it has a complementary sequence for hybridizing the target gene. Second, DNA has various functionalities, such as DNAzymes, DNA junctions or aptamers, because of its unique folded structures with specific sequences. Third, functional groups, such as thiols, amines, or other fluorophores, can easily be introduced into DNA at the 5′ or 3′ end. Finally, DNA can easily be tailored by making junctions or origami structures; these unique structures extend the DNA arm and create a multi-functional bioprobe. Meanwhile, nanomaterials have also been used to advance plasmonic biosensor technologies. Nanomaterials provide various biosensing platforms with high sensitivity and selectivity. Several plasmonic biosensor types have been fabricated, such as surface plasmons, and Raman-based or metal-enhanced biosensors. Introducing DNA nanotechnology to plasmonic biosensors has brought in sight new horizons in the fields of biosensors and nanobiotechnology. This review discusses the recent progress of DNA nanotechnology-based plasmonic biosensors.
Surface-Fabrication of Fluorescent Hydroxyapatite for Cancer Cell Imaging and Bio-Printing Applications
Authors: Wan Weimin , Li Ziqi , Wang Xi , Tian Fei , Yang Jian
Published: June 2022

Hydroxyapatite (HAP) materials are widely applied as biomedical materials due to their stable performance, low cost, good biocompatibility and biodegradability. Here, a green, fast and efficient strategy was designed to construct a fluorescent nanosystem for cell imaging and drug delivery based on polyethyleneimine (PEI) and functionalized HAP via simple physical adsorption. First, HAP nanorods were functionalized with riboflavin sodium phosphate (HE) to provide them with fluorescence properties based on ligand-exchange process. Next, PEI was attached on the surface of HE-functionalized HAP (HAP-HE@PEI) via electrostatic attraction. The fluorescent HAP-HE@PEI nanosystem could be rapidly taken up by NIH-3T3 fibroblast cells and successfully applied to for cell imaging. Additionally, doxorubicin hydrochloride (DOX) containing HAP-HE@PEI with high loading capacity was prepared, and in-vitro release results show that the maximum release of DOX at pH 5.4 (31.83%) was significantly higher than that at pH 7.2 (9.90%), which can be used as a drug delivery tool for cancer therapy. Finally, HAP-HE@PEI as the 3D inkjet printing ink were printed with GelMA hydrogel, showing a great biocompatible property for 3D cell culture of RAW 264.7 macrophage cells. Altogether, because of the enhanced affinity with the cell membrane of HAP-HE@PEI, this green, fast and efficient strategy may provide a prospective candidate for bio-imaging, drug delivery and bio-printing.
Dual Molecular Design toward a Lysosome-Tagged AIEgen and Heavy-Atom-Free Photosensitizers for Hypoxic Cancer Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Pham Thanh Chung , Hoang Thi Thuy Hang , Choi Yeonghwan , Lee Seongman , Joo Sang-Woo , Kim Gun , Kim Dongwon , Jung Ok-Sang , Lee Songyi
Published: June 2022

To date, a large number of photosensitizers (PS) have introduced heavy atoms to improve the ISC process and 1O2 generation. However, they often show low efficiency in hypoxic conditions, aggregate states, and turn-off PDT in the dark. Besides that, the toxicity of heavy metals is also concerned. Therefore, we developed lysosome-targeted heavy-metal-free PS (3S and 4S) based on thionated naphthalimide for hypoxic cancer photodynamic therapy (PDT), not only under white light but also in the dark via thermal-induced 1O2 generation. AIEgen (3O and 4O) were prepared for studying the PDT action of PSs (3S and 4S) in lysosome and aggregate state. We also examined the photophysical properties of AIEgen (3O and 4O) and PS (3S and 4S) by UV–vis absorption, fluorescent emission spectra, and theoretical calculations.
Topologic Efficiency Abnormalities of the Connectome in Asymptomatic Patients with Leukoaraiosis
Authors: Yao Shun , Zhang Hong-Ying , Wang Ren , Cheng Ding-Sheng , Ye Jing
Published: June 2022

Leukoaraiosis (LA) is commonly found in aging healthy people but its pathophysiological mechanism is not entirely known. Furthermore, there is still a lack of effective pathological biomarkers that can be used to identify the early stage of LA. Our aim was to investigate the white matter structural network in asymptomatic patients with the early stage of LA. Tractography data of 35 asymptomatic patients and 20 matched healthy controls (HCs) based on diffusion kurtosis imaging (DKI) were analysed by using graph theory approaches and tract-based spatial statistics (TBSS). Diffusion parameters measured within the ALAs and HCs were compared. Decreased clustering coefficient and local efficiency values of the overall topological white matter network were observed in the ALAs compared with those of the HCs. Participants in the asymptomatic group also had lower nodal efficiency in the left triangular part of the inferior frontal gyrus, left parahippocampal gyrus, right calcarine fissure and surrounding cortex, right temporal pole of the superior temporal gyrus and left middle temporal gyrus compared to the ALAs. Moreover, similar hub distributions were found within participants in the two groups. In this study, our data demonstrated a topologic efficiency abnormalities of the structural network in asymptomatic patients with leukoaraiosis. The structural connectome provides potential connectome-based measures that may be helpful for detecting leukoaraiosis before clinical symptoms evolve.
The Effect of Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation on the Downregulation of Negative Emotions: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhang Qingqing , Li Xiaoming , Liu Xinying , Liu Shanshan , Zhang Mengzhu , Liu Yueling , Zhu Chunyan , Wang Kai
Published: June 2022

(1) Background: Emotion regulation (ER) is regarded as a core treatment target for depression and other mental illnesses. In recent years, non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) has been extensively used as an intervention for mental illnesses, but there has been no systematic review conducted regarding its effect on emotion regulation. Therefore, we conducted a meta-analysis of the effectiveness of NIBS for emotion regulation; (2) Methods: Systematic searches were conducted in Embase, Web of Science, PubMed, and Cochrane Library. We analyzed the effects of NIBS on tasks assessing emotion regulation using a random-effects model, and further explored the moderating role of the following factors on transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) studies by conducting subgroup analyses and meta-regression: target electrode placement, return electrode placement, current intensity, target electrode size, and duration of intervention; (3) Results: A total of 17 studies were included. Our meta-analysis indicated a small but significant effect of NIBS on the downregulation of negative emotions. Separate analyses indicated that repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) had a medium and significant effect on the downregulation of negative emotions, whereas tDCS had no significant effect. Subgroup analyses showed that the effect of tDCS was moderated by target and return electrode placemen; (4) Conclusions: These results indicate that NIBS had a positive effect on the downregulation of negative emotions. The stimulation protocols should be carefully considered and the underlying mechanisms should be further explored.
Effectiveness and Factors Associated with Improved Life Skill Levels of Participants of a Large-Scale Youth-Focused Life Skills Training and Counselling Services Program (LSTCP): Evidence from India
Authors: Sukumar Gautham Melur , Shahane Swati S. , Shenoy Anusha B. , Nagaraja Srividya Rudrapattana , Vasuki Prathyusha P. , Lingaiah Prathap , Rajneesh Shalini , Banandur Pradeep S.
Published: June 2022

(1) Background: To empower and facilitate mental health promotion for nearly 18 million youth, a pioneering state-wide Life Skills Training and Counselling Services Program (LSTCP) was implemented in Karnataka, India. This study assesses the changes in life skills scores, level of life skills and factors associated with increased life skills among participants of the LSTCP. (2) Method: This pre–post study design was conducted on 2669 participants who underwent a six-day structured LSTCP. Changes in mean life skills scores and level of life skill categories pre- and post-LSTCP were assessed. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to assess the factors associated with increases in life skills. (3) Results: The LSTCP resulted in significant changes in life skill scores and level of life skills, indicating the effectiveness of the training. All life skill domains, except empathy and self-awareness, increased post-training. There was a positive shift in the level of life skills. Age (AOR = 1.34, CI = 1.11–1.62), gender (AOR = 1.39, CI = 1.15–1.68), education (AOR = 1.44, CI = 1.05–1.97) and physical (AOR = 1.02, CI = 1.01–1.03) and psychological (AOR = 1.02, CI = 1.01–1.03) quality of life was associated with an increase in life skills among participants. (4) Conclusions: The LSTCP is effective in improving the life skills of participants. The LSTCP modules and processes can be used to further train youth and contribute to mental health promotion in the state.
The Development of the Hospitality Sector Facing the Digital Challenge
Authors: Perinotto André Riani Costa , Araújo Sávio Machado , Borges Vicente de Paula Censi , Soares Jakson Renner Rodrigues , Cardoso Lucília , Lima Santos Luís
Published: June 2022

The widespread use of the Internet has changed consumer buying behavior, especially among tourists, considering the intangibility of the tourist product. Although globally the modern tourist is a consumer of the new online market, there is a lack of studies addressing the level of development of the hotel business in relation to online bookings by residents of tourist destinations. Furthermore, this article analyzes the factors that impact the use of e-commerce by these residents in the acquisition of tourist accommodation services. A conceptual model was adopted, using the constructs “social influence” and “price” of the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology 2 (UTAUT2), also including “trust” and “perceived risk”. An electronic questionnaire was used to collect data from a sample of 195 residents of Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, exploratory factor analysis, Fisher’s exact test, and multiple linear regression. The results show that price and social influence are the most significant constructs associated with booking a hotel online, while trust does not influence the use of the Internet. As practical implications, the findings of this study provide important information for hotel managers, as they allow a better understanding of the profile of respondents who book online, as well as which factors influence online behaviors, contributing to increasing the knowledge of digital platforms in the consumer market and, consequently, the development of the hospitality sector.
Multiple Tests for Dynamic Identification of a Reinforced Concrete Multi-Span Arch Bridge
Authors: Gattulli Vincenzo , Potenza Francesco , Piccirillo Giulio
Published: June 2022

This paper presents the results of an experimental dynamic campaign carried out on a reinforced concrete multi-span arch bridge. Five expeditious ambient vibration tests were conducted separately on five spans (one test in each span) of the bridge using only six piezoelectric uniaxial accelerometers. Modal parameters were identified through the well-known Enhanced Frequency Domain Decomposition (EFDD) procedure developed using Matlab R2021b software. At the same time, a finite element model was accurately implemented through a commercial software (Midas Civil) to evaluate the main modal features. A manual model update was successively pursued varying the elastic modulus of the reinforced concrete to make the identified and numerical modes as close as possible. A complete and suitable instrumentation to perform global experimental dynamic tests is not always available. Recursive/Multiple tests have different advantages: handy, easily executable, and could provide a more robust identification thanks to a statical characterization. The paper aims to highlight the peculiarities of recursive/multiple dynamic tests on multi-span arch bridges. The procedure also provides useful suggestions for designing a permanent and continuous vibration-based monitoring system.
Research on a Commercial Building Space Traffic Flow Design Based on Post-Occupancy Evaluation
Authors: Zhu Yitong , Huang Wenzhen , Hu Linhui
Published: June 2022

The aim of traffic flow design in commercial building space planning is to create a comfortable, easily accessible, and identifiable spatial structure in a complex and changeable business environment. However, modern commercial building spaces often appear to be inconsistent with the usage requirements after they are put into use. To understand the real experience evaluation of users, this study selects the commercial project “Guangzhou Nanpu Times Commercial Building Space” as its subject. Based on post-occupancy evaluation (POE), this study uses the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) to construct an evaluation index system of commercial building space traffic flow. The weights and satisfaction scores of the indexes are calculated through expert interviews and questionnaires to analyze the evaluation and reasons for the commercial building space traffic flow design after using the facilities. We thereby obtain the design points of commercial building space traffic flow to provide a scientific, reasonable, and practical basis for the subsequent design of the same type of traffic flow to drive the prosperity and development of commerce.
The Homologous Recombination Deficiency Scar in Advanced Cancer: Agnostic Targeting of Damaged DNA Repair
Authors: Pacheco-Barcia Vilma , Muñoz Andrés , Castro Elena , Ballesteros Ana Isabel , Marquina Gloria , González-Díaz Iván , Colomer Ramon , Romero-Laorden Nuria
Published: June 2022

BRCA1 and BRCA2 are the most recognized tumor-suppressor genes involved in double-strand DNA break repair through the homologous recombination (HR) system. Widely known for its role in hereditary cancer, HR deficiency (HRD) has turned out to be critical beyond breast and ovarian cancer: for prostate and pancreatic cancer also. The relevance for the identification of these patients exceeds diagnostic purposes, since results published from clinical trials with poly-ADP ribose polymerase (PARP) inhibitors (PARPi) have shown how this type of targeted therapy can modify the long-term evolution of patients with HRD. Somatic aberrations in other HRD pathway genes, but also indirect genomic instability as a sign of this DNA repair impairment (known as HRD scar), have been reported to be relevant events that lead to more frequently than expected HR loss of function in several tumor types, and should therefore be included in the current diagnostic and therapeutic algorithm. However, the optimal strategy to identify HRD and potential PARPi responders in cancer remains undefined. In this review, we summarize the role and prevalence of HRD across tumor types and the current treatment landscape to guide the agnostic targeting of damaged DNA repair. We also discuss the challenge of testing patients and provide a special insight for new strategies to select patients who benefit from PARPi due to HRD scarring.
Pathological Analysis of Encased Resected Recurrent Nerves in Locally Invasive Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Dahan Alexandre , Al Ghuzlan Abir , Chehab Randa , Guerlain Joanne , Breuskin Ingrid , Garcia Camilo , Lamartina Livia , Hadoux Julien , Baudin Eric , Hartl Dana M.
Published: June 2022

Objective: Thyroid cancer encasing the recurrent nerve is rare, and the decision to resect or preserve the nerve is multifactorial. The objective of this study was to histopathologically analyze resected encased nerves to assess the rate of nerve invasion and risk factors. Materials and Methods: A retrospective study was carried out on consecutive patients with resection of the recurrent nerve for primary or recurrent follicular cell-derived or medullary thyroid carcinoma from 2005 to 2020. Demographics, pathology, locoregional invasion, metastases, recurrences and survival were analyzed. Slides were reviewed blindly by two specialized pathologists (AAG, RC) for diagnosis of invasion deep to the epineurium. Results: Fifty-two patients were included: 25 females; average age, 55 (range 8–87). In total, 87% percent (45/52) were follicular cell-derived with 17/45 (37.8%) aggressive variants; 13% (7/52) were medullary carcinoma. Preoperative vocal fold (VF) paralysis was present in 16/52 (30.7%). Pathologically, the nerve was invaded in 44/52 cases (85%): 82% of follicular cell-derived tumors (37/45), 88% of pediatric cases, and 100% of medullary carcinomas (7/7). Nerve invasion was observed in 11/16 (69%) with preoperative VF paralysis and 33/36 (92%) with normal VF function. Only aggressive histology was correlated with nerve invasion in follicular cell-derived tumors (p = 0.019). Conclusions: The encased nerves were pathologically invaded in 82% of follicular cell-derived tumors and in 100% of medullary carcinomas. Nerve invasion was statistically correlated with aggressive histopathological subtypes and was observed in the absence of VF paralysis in 92% of cases.
Comparative Catalytic Performance Study of 12-Tungstophosphoric Heteropoly Acid Supported on Mesoporous Supports for Biodiesel Production from Unrefined Green Seed Canola Oil
Authors: Esmi Fahimeh , Masoumi Shima , Dalai Ajay K.
Published: June 2022

In this study, three solid acid catalysts, namely mesoporous aluminophosphate-supported 12-tungstophosphoric heteropoly acid (HPW/MAP), mesoporous aluminosilicate-supported 12-tungstophosphoric heteropoly acid (HPW/MAS), and gamma alumina-supported 12-tungstophosphoric heteropoly acid (HPW/γ-Al2O3) were prepared and characterized. Mesoporous aluminophosphate (MAP) and mesoporous aluminosilicate (MAS) were synthesized via sol-gel and hydrothermal methods, respectively, and 25 wt.% of 12-tungstophosphoric heteropoly acid (HPW) was immobilized on the support materials using the wet impregnation method. The features of the fabricated catalysts were comprehensively investigated using various techniques such as BET, XRD, NH3-TPD, TGA, and TEM. The surface area of the supported catalysts decreased after HPW impregnation according to BET results, which indicates that HPW loaded on the supports and inside of their pores successfully. The density and strengths of the acid sites of the support materials and the catalysts before reaction and after regeneration were determined by the NH3-TPD technique. Accordingly, an increase in acidity was observed after HPW immobilization on all the support materials. The catalytic performance of the catalysts was studied through alcoholysis reaction using unrefined green seed canola oil as the feedstock. The maximum biodiesel yield of 82.3% was obtained using 3 wt.% of HPW/MAS, with a methanol to oil molar ratio of 20:1, at 200 °C and 4 MPa over 7 h. The reusability study of HPW/MAS showed that it can maintain 80% of its initial activity after five runs.
De-Escalation of Saccharification Costs through Enforcement of Immobilization of Cellulase Synthesized by Wild Trichoderma viride
Authors: Ramalingam Subramanian , Revathi Dhanashekar
Published: June 2022

The economic uncertainty associated with cellulosic bioethanol can be overcome through the inclusion of cheap substrates and methodologies that can extend the shelf life of cellulolytic enzymes. In this study, wild Trichoderma viride was used to produce cellulases, media formulation studies were conducted to enhance the cellulase production further and immobilization strategies were tested for stable cellulase–iron oxide magnetic nanoparticle coupling. Out of the seven different production media designed, media containing glucose, wheat bran, cellulose and corn steep liquor supported the highest biomass growth (60 Packed cell volume) and cellulase formation (7.4 U/mL), and thus was chosen for the fiscal analysis at a larger scale (1000 m3). The profitability of the cellulase production process was assessed to be 20.86%, considering both the capital expenditure and operating expenses. Further, the effect of cost of different carbon sources, nitrogen sources and cellulase yields on the annual operating costs was explored, which led to the choice of delignified sugarcane bagasse, corn steep liquor and productivity levels to be respective decisive factors of the overall cost of the cellulase production. Likewise, the break-even period of such a large-scale operation was gauged given the market price of cellulases at USD 17 for 105 U of cellulases. Moreover, enzyme immobilization led to enhanced cellulase shelf life and ultimately contributed toward saccharification cost reduction.
Metal-Catalysed A3 Coupling Methodologies: Classification and Visualisation
Authors: Farhi Jonathan , Lykakis Ioannis N. , Kostakis George E.
Published: June 2022

The multicomponent reaction of aldehydes, amines, and alkynes, known as A3 coupling, yields propargylamines, a valuable organic scaffold, and has received significant interest and attention in the last years. In order to fully realise the potential of the metal-based catalytic protocols that facilitate this transformation, we summarise substrates, in situ and well-characterised synthetic methods that provide this scaffold and attempt a monumental classification considering several variables (Metal, Coordinating atom(s), Ligand type and name, in-situ or well-characterised, co-catalyst, catalyst and ligand Loading (mol%), solvent, volume, atmosphere, temperature, microwave, time, yield, selectivity (e.e. d.r.), substrate name, functionality, loading (amines, aldehydes, alkynes), and use of molecular sieves). This pioneering work creates a valuable database that contains 2376 entries and allows us to produce graphs and better visualise their impact on the reaction.
Metabolic Profiling of CHO Cells during the Production of Biotherapeutics
Authors: Coulet Mathilde , Kepp Oliver , Kroemer Guido , Basmaciogullari Stéphane
Published: June 2022

As indicated by an ever-increasing number of FDA approvals, biotherapeutics constitute powerful tools for the treatment of various diseases, with monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) accounting for more than 50% of newly approved drugs between 2014 and 2018 (Walsh, 2018). The pharmaceutical industry has made great progress in developing reliable and efficient bioproduction processes to meet the demand for recombinant mAbs. Mammalian cell lines are preferred for the production of functional, complex recombinant proteins including mAbs, with Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells being used in most instances. Despite significant advances in cell growth control for biologics manufacturing, cellular responses to environmental changes need to be understood in order to further improve productivity. Metabolomics offers a promising approach for developing suitable strategies to unlock the full potential of cellular production. This review summarizes key findings on catabolism and anabolism for each phase of cell growth (exponential growth, the stationary phase and decline) with a focus on the principal metabolic pathways (glycolysis, the pentose phosphate pathway and the tricarboxylic acid cycle) and the families of biomolecules that impact these circuities (nucleotides, amino acids, lipids and energy-rich metabolites).
Investigating the Status of Women Engineers in Education and Employment during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Singh Seema
Published: June 2022

Engineering is traditionally considered a male domain with lower female participation despite various affirmative actions taken in recent decades. There is evidence of greater gender equality as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and precautionary lockdown measures. With this in mind, this paper investigates whether women engineers in India were more adversely affected than their male counterparts by the COVID-19 pandemic. Such an impact may be explained by ‘intersectional stigma’, expanded upon in the literature on discrimination. The impact of such stigma varies in different countries based on socio-cultural factors. Through the use of ethnographic and statistical research methods on secondary and primary data from a sample of 384 engineers, this paper shows that the impact of COVID-19 is not significantly different between genders in engineering education and employment. This may be due to the high demand for digital engineering skills, and strong family support in Indian society. Engineering branch may play a relatively more important role than gender in terms of impact. This finding has repercussions for continuing engineering education (CEE) programs and regulatory bodies in India in terms of enhancing course content and the results may be used in developing affirmative programs in other regions.