bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance Analysis of the Maximum Likelihood Estimation of Signal Period Length and Its Application in Heart Rate Estimation with Reduced Respiratory Influence
Authors: Zhang Chi , Jin Mingming , Dong Ge , Wei Shaoming
Published: September 2023

The remote and non-contact monitoring of human respiration and heartbeat based on radars is a safe and convenient practice. However, how to accurately estimate the heart rate is still an open issue, because the heartbeat information in radar signals is affected by respiratory harmonics. In this paper, a maximum likelihood estimation was introduced to extract the heart rate from high-pass-filtered radar heartbeat waveforms where the low-frequency respiratory and heartbeat components were attenuated. The closed-form asymptotic estimation variance of the maximum likelihood estimator was derived to describe its performance in white Gaussian noise with a high signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). The proposed method was verified using two publicly available datasets and demonstrated superior performance compared to other methods. The estimation method and the asymptotic estimation variance here described are also applicable for signal period estimation in other settings with similar conditions.
A New SLF/ELF Algorithm of Fields Excited by a Radiator in a Soil Foundation in the Earth–Ionosphere Cavity
Authors: Wang Yuanxin , Yang Jutao , Hao Shuji , Chen Jing , Liang Yonggan , Zheng Yanshuai
Published: September 2023

Abnormal electromagnetic radiation associated with seismic activity has been reported across a wide range of frequencies, but its primary energy is concentrated in the super-low-frequency (SLF) and extremely low-frequency (ELF) bands. To estimate the effect of the seismic radiation source, a radiator in a soil foundation was modeled as a horizontal electric dipole (HED), and the propagation characteristics of the electromagnetic fields were studied in the Earth–ionosphere cavity. The expressions of the electromagnetic fields could be obtained according to the reciprocity theorem. Therefore, a new algorithm named the numerical integral algorithm was proposed, which is suitable for both the SLF and ELF bands. The new algorithm was compared with the asymptotic approximation algorithm when the receiving point was not close to the field source and the antipode. The two algorithms were found to be in excellent agreement, confirming the validity of the new algorithm for SLF and ELF bands.
Physical Contact between Torulaspora delbrueckii and Saccharomyces cerevisiae Alters Cell Growth and Molecular Interactions in Grape Must
Authors: Chasseriaud Laura , Albertin Warren , Blein-Nicolas Mélisande , Balliau Thierry , Zivy Michel , Coulon Joana , Bely Marina
Published: September 2023

The use of multi-starters in oenological conditions (Saccharomyces cerevisiae and non-Saccharomyces species) is becoming increasingly common. For the past ten years, the combination of Torulaspora delbrueckii and S. cerevisiae has been proposed to winemakers to improve the wine aromatic profile compared to pure inoculation with Saccharomyces cerevisiae. In this work, two commercial strains, T. delbrueckii Zymaflore® Alpha and S. cerevisiae Zymaflore® X5 (Laffort compagny, Floirac, France), were investigated in Sauvignon blanc must using a fermentor with a double compartment allowing for physical separation of the two yeast species. The physical separation of the two species resulted in significant differences in the growth, fermentation kinetics (maximum fermentation rate (+13%)), fermentation duration (−14%) and the production of 3SH (+35%) in comparison to mixed cultures with contact. Proteomic analysis confirmed cell–cell contact interactions, as strong differences were observed for both species between mixed cultures with and without physical contact. T. delbrueckii mortality in mixed cultures with physical contact may be explained by an oxidative stress. Indeed two proteins implicated in the oxidative stress response were found in significantly higher amounts: a cytosolic catalase T and a cytoplasmic thioredoxin isoenzyme. For S. cerevisiae, an increase in proteins involved in the respiratory chain and proton transport were found in higher amounts in pure cultures and mixed culture without physical contact. Our results confirmed that the two mixed inoculations increased certain minor esters (ethylpropanoate, ethyl dihydrocinnamate and ethyl isobutanoate) specifically produced by T. delbrueckii, 3.4-fold more compared to in the pure S. cerevisiae culture. In conclusion, these results provide new insights into the underlying mechanisms involved in cell–cell contact and confirm the benefits of using T. delbrueckii species under winemaking conditions.
Rapid Evaluation of Antibacterial Carbohydrates on a Microfluidic Chip Integrated with the Impedimetric Neoglycoprotein Biosensor
Authors: Ji Haijie , Yang Xueqiong , Zhou Hang , Cui Feiyun , Zhou Qin
Published: September 2023

The colonization of some bacteria to their host cell is mediated by selective adhesion between adhesin and glycan. The evaluation of antiadhesive carbohydrates in vitro has great significance in discovering new antibacterial drugs. In this paper, a microfluidic chip integrated with impedimetric neoglycoprotein biosensors was developed to evaluate the antibacterial effect of carbohydrates. Mannosylated bovine serum albumin (Man-BSA) was taken as the neoglycoprotein and immobilized on the microelectrode-modified gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) to form a bionic glycoprotein nanosensing surface (Man-BSA/Au NPs). Salmonella typhimurium (S. typhimurium) was selected as a bacteria model owing to its selective adhesion to the mannose. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) was used to characterize the adhesion capacity of S. typhimurium to the Man-BSA/Au NPs and evaluate the antiadhesive efficacy of nine different carbohydrates. It was illustrated that the 4-methoxyphenyl-α-D-pyran mannoside (Phenyl-Man) and mannan peptide (Mannatide) showed excellent antiadhesive efficacy, with IC50 values of 0.086 mM and 0.094 mM, respectively. The microfluidic device developed in this study can be tested in multiple channels. Compared with traditional methods for evaluating the antibacterial drug in vitro, it has the advantages of being fast, convenient, and cost-effective.
Neuroimmune Support of Neuronal Regeneration and Neuroplasticity following Cerebral Ischemia in Juvenile Mice
Authors: Marquez-Ortiz Ricaurte A. , Tesic Vesna , Hernandez Daniel R. , Akhter Bilkis , Aich Nibedita , Boudreaux Porter M. , Clemons Garrett A. , Wu Celeste Yin-Chieh , Lin Hung Wen , Rodgers Krista M.
Published: September 2023

Ischemic damage to the brain and loss of neurons contribute to functional disabilities in many stroke survivors. Recovery of neuroplasticity is critical to restoration of function and improved quality of life. Stroke and neurological deficits occur in both adults and children, and yet it is well documented that the developing brain has remarkable plasticity which promotes increased post-ischemic functional recovery compared with adults. However, the mechanisms underlying post-stroke recovery in the young brain have not been fully explored. We observed opposing responses to experimental cerebral ischemia in juvenile and adult mice, with substantial neural regeneration and enhanced neuroplasticity detected in the juvenile brain that was not found in adults. We demonstrate strikingly different stroke-induced neuroimmune responses that are deleterious in adults and protective in juveniles, supporting neural regeneration and plasticity. Understanding age-related differences in neuronal repair and regeneration, restoration of neural network function, and neuroimmune signaling in the stroke-injured brain may offer new insights for the development of novel therapeutic strategies for stroke rehabilitation.
Does Accountability Aggravate the Risk of Teacher Burnout? Evidence from the Chinese Education System
Authors: Li Guanyu , Tsang Kwok Kuen
Published: September 2023

External and internal accountabilities and emotional labor are possible factors triggering teacher burnout, but the relationships between the constructs have not been fully addressed. Thus, this study aimed to construct and test a chain mediation model to demonstrate the relationships between external accountability and burnout, mediated by internal accountability and emotional labor sequentially. By surveying 814 teachers (years of teaching: M = 13.42, SD = 10.97) from 10 provinces in China, it shows: (1) external and internal accountabilities are both negatively related to burnout; (2) internal accountability, deep acting, and expression of naturally felt emotions mediate the relationship between external accountability and burnout; (3) internal accountability and surface acting sequentially play a chain mediating role between external accountability and burnout; and (4) internal accountability and expression of naturally felt emotions sequentially play a chain mediating role between external accountability and teacher burnout.
Cable Force Calculation of Cable Hoisting of CFST Arch Bridge Research
Authors: Jia Yi , Wei Chaokuan , Huang Ziqiu , Li Qi , Liao Ping , Lin Wencong
Published: September 2023

To effectively control the stress state and spatial alignment of arch ribs in the cable hoisting construction of a long-span, concrete-filled, steel tube arch bridge and ensure the safety of the structure, it is necessary to calculate and determine the appropriate cable force. Based on the actual project of a double-span, concrete-filled, steel tubular arch bridge, the construction stage of the left span of the bridge from the beginning of construction to the closure is taken as an example. The linear control method of “quiet do not move” is adopted. Based on the principle that the vertical displacement of the front end of the installed segment caused by the self-weight of the new hoisting segment is equal to the vertical displacement of the front end of the previous segment caused by the tension of the new hoisting segment, the tension cable force is calculated by forward iteration. Finally, based on the theory of the stress-free state method, the ideal linear design of the structure was achieved. The results show that after the closure of the bridge, the error range of the cable tension force is −13.33–15.40% on the left bank and −8.37–11.00% on the right bank. The elevation error of the arch rib is −0.003–0.043 m on the left bank and −0.007–0.032 m on the right bank. The overall stress error of the bridge arch is ±7.0 MPa. The error between the theoretical value and the actual value is within the scope of the specification requirements, which meets the specification requirements. After the closure, the arch shape of the bridge meets the smooth requirements.
Cost Forecasting for Building Materials under Conditions of Uncertainty: Methodology and Practice
Authors: Uvarova Svetlana S. , Belyaeva Svetlana V. , Orlov Alexandr K. , Kankhva Vadim S.
Published: September 2023

Most large construction projects face the problem of cost overruns and failures to meet deadlines mainly due to changes in the cost of building materials. A lot of studies proved the high importance of the cost of building materials for the project budget and highlighted a number of factors that determine the cost of materials. However, modern unstable economic dynamics lead to the need not only to observe sufficient accuracy of quantity and cost calculations regarding primary building materials but also to carefully predict the cost, taking into account uncertainty factors (changes in the geopolitical situation, the impact of the pandemic, changes in the technological structure, etc.). This article proposes the use of a calculation and expert methodology for forecasting the cost of building materials on the example of building bars for two regions of the Russian Federation. This study includes a review of literature, which showed the dependence of the dynamics of the cost of construction on the prices of building materials, confirmed the impact of economic and noneconomic factors of the dynamics of prices of building materials and the impact of risk and uncertainty. Based on the literature review, it is also concluded that it is necessary to expertly adjust the results of the economic and mathematical modeling of the building materials’ price trend line under the influence of noneconomic factors of uncertainty. The statistics of the prices of building materials in Russia were analyzed, and the main causes of price dynamics (economic and noneconomic) were identified. The ARIMA model was selected to build a series of dynamics of prices of reinforcement steel, an expert adjustment of the forecast was made taking into account uncertainty factors. The method of calculation and expert forecasting of prices of building materials was proposed, and the forecast of prices of steel reinforcement in the regions of Russia was calculated on its basis. In conclusion, this study demonstrates the algorithm and practical results of forecasting the cost of building materials under the conditions of uncertainty, as well as recommendations for the implementation of predictive analytics tools in construction practice.
Cardiac Dose Predicts the Response to Concurrent Chemoradiotherapy in Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Ho Yu-Chieh , Lai Yuan-Chun , Lin Hsuan-Yu , Ko Ming-Hui , Wang Sheng-Hung , Yang Shan-Jun , Chou Tsai-Wei , Hung Li-Chung , Huang Chia-Chun , Chang Tung-Hao , Lin Jhen-Bin , Lin Jin-Ching
Published: September 2023

Definitive concurrent chemoradiation (CCRT) is the standard treatment for cervical esophageal cancer and non-surgical candidates. Initial treatment response affects survival; however, few validated markers are available for prediction. This study evaluated the clinical variables and chemoradiation parameters associated with treatment response. Between May 2010 and April 2016, 86 completed CCRT patients’ clinical, dosimetric, and laboratory data at baseline and during treatment were collected. Cox regression analysis assessed the risk factors for overall survival (OS). A receiver operating characteristic curve with Youden’s index was chosen to obtain the optimal cut-off value of each parameter. Treatment response was defined per Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors v.1.1 at the first post-CCRT computed tomography scan. Responders had complete and partial responses; non-responders had stable and progressive diseases. Logistic regression (LR) was used to evaluate the variables associated with responders. The Cox regression model confirmed the presence of responders (n = 50) vs. non-responders (n = 36) with a significant difference in OS. In multivariate LR, cardiac dose–volume received ≥10 Gy; the baseline hemoglobin level, highest neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio during CCRT, and cumulative cisplatin dose were significantly associated with the responders. The initial clinical treatment response significantly determines disease outcome. Cardiac irradiation may affect the treatment response.
Area Dose–Response and Radiation Origin of Childhood Thyroid Cancer in Fukushima Based on Thyroid Dose in UNSCEAR 2020/2021: High 131I Exposure Comparable to Chernobyl
Authors: Kato Toshiko , Yamada Kosaku , Hongyo Tadashi
Published: September 2023

The FMU and the United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation (UNSCEAR) concluded that the high incidence of thyroid cancer after the Fukushima nuclear accident was not the result of radiation exposure, but rather might have been overdiagnosis based on the low thyroid dose estimated in the UNSCEAR 2020/2021 report. In this study, the origin of increased PTC in Fukushima was examined based on the thyroid dose estimated by UNSCEAR. The dose–response relationship of the incidence rate per person-years (PY) was analyzed for four areas in Fukushima prefecture via regression analysis. The linear response of the annual incidence rates to thyroid dose in the first six years showed that the dominant origin of childhood thyroid cancer was radiation exposure. Excess absolute risk (EAR) proportionally increased with thyroid dose, with an EAR/104 PY Gy of 143 (95%CI: 122, 165) in the second TUE (p < 0.001), which is approximately 50–100 times higher than the EAR/104 PY Gy ≒ 2.3 observed after the Chernobyl accident. This suggests an underestimation of the thyroid dose by UNSCEAR of approximately 1/50~1/100 compared with the thyroid dose for Chernobyl. The increased childhood thyroid cancer in Fukushima was found to arise from radioactive iodine exposure, which was comparable to that in Chernobyl.
Post-Chemoradiation Metastatic, Persistent and Resistant Nodes in Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer: Metrics and Their Impact on Long-Term Outcome
Authors: Calvo Felipe A. , Tudela María , Serrano Javier , Muñoz-Fernández Mercedes , Peligros María Isabel , Garcia-Alfonso Pilar , del Valle Emilio
Published: September 2023

Background: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the long-term oncological progression pattern of locally advanced rectal cancer patients with post-neoadjuvant nodal metastatic disease (ypN+) and correlate potential prognostic features associated with proven radiochemoresistant nodal biology. Methods: Individual patient data (100 variables) from a 20-year consecutive single-institution multidisciplinary experience (1995–2015), delivering multimodal therapy to rectal cancer patient candidates for radical treatment, including a neoadjuvant component and surgical resection with or without intraoperative radiotherapy followed by optional adjuvant chemotherapy. The ypN+ disease data was registered in the context of initial staging categories post-neoadjuvant T status (ypT). Results: Data on 487 patients showed histologically confirmed diagnoses of metastatic nodal disease in 108 specimens (ypN+, 22.1). There was a significant age difference (p = 0.009) between the ypN groups: age ≥ 65 was 57.6% in pN0 and 43.5% in ypN+ and patients aged < 65 constituted 42.4% of pN0 and 56.5% of ypN+. According to the clinical stage there were statistically significant differences (p = 0.001) in the categories’ distribution: ypN+ patients 10.8% were stage II and 89.2% were stage III. Univariant analysis on outcome variables showed statistically significant differences in overall survival at 7 years (63.8% vs. 55.7%, p = 0.016) disease-free survival (DFS) (78% vs. 53.8%, p = 0.000) and local recurrence-free survival (LRFS) (93.6% vs. 84%, p = 0.002). Conclusions: The presence of nodal metastases (ypN+) after neoadjuvant therapy containing long-course pelvic irradiation severely impacts the long-term outcome for patients with locally advanced rectal cancer and correlates with multiple clinical and therapeutic variable metrics. Implementation of local and systemic therapies should be adapted and intensified in relation to the finding of ypN+ category in surgical specimens.
Effects of an Integrative Day Care Clinic Program with a Focus on Nature Therapy in a Hospital Park Setting on Quality of Life in Oncological Patients—A Non-Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Kuballa Lisa , Kessler Christian S. , Kandil Farid I. , von Scheidt Christel , Meinköhn Meline , Koch Barbara , Wischnewsky Manfred , Michalsen Andreas , Jeitler Michael
Published: September 2023

Cancer often causes long-term physical and psychological impairments. Lifestyle modification and nature-based interventions (NBIs) can have a positive impact on patients’ quality of life (QOL). This participants-blinded, non-randomized controlled study assessed parameters at weeks 0, 12, and 24, including, as a primary endpoint, QOL in cancer patients on the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy—General (FACT-G) at week 12. QOL in breast cancer patients, fatigue, well-being, stress, anxiety/depression, socio-psychological well-being, benefits of nature interaction, insomnia, self-efficacy, mindfulness, and self-compassion were assessed as secondary endpoints. N = 107 cancer patients (96.3% women; 52.5 ± 9.3 years, 80.4% breast cancer) were assigned to either a 12-week nature-based (NDC; n = 56) or conventional (DC; n = 51) oncology day care clinic program, whereby the assignment group was not known to the participants. There was no significant group difference for the primary endpoint. At week 24, QOL, fatigue, mindfulness and self-compassion scores were significantly higher, and at weeks 12 and 24, the insomnia score was significantly lower in NDC compared to DC. In conclusion, this study indicates positive and clinically relevant effects of the program on QOL, fatigue, and psychological parameters. NBIs seem to have a more pronounced effect.
Liver Cancer: Improving Standard Diagnosis and Therapy
Authors: Masuzaki Ryota
Published: September 2023

In 2020, liver cancer ranked sixth for incidence (841,000 cases) and fourth for deaths globally (782,000 cases) [...]
Intermittent Radioligand Therapy with 177Lu-PSMA-617 for Oligometastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer
Authors: Mader Nicolai , Schoeler Christina , Pezeshkpour Niloufar , Klimek Konrad , Groener Daniel , Happel Christian , Tselis Nikolaos , Mandel Philipp , Grünwald Frank , Sabet Amir
Published: September 2023

177Lu-PSMA-617 radioligand therapy (177Lu-PSMA-RLT) in patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) currently consists of 4–6 cycles of 6.0–7.4 GBq of 177Lu-PSMA-617 each every 6–8 weeks. While safety and efficacy could be demonstrated in larger prospective trials irrespective of the tumor burden at 177Lu-PSMA RLT initiation, increased renal absorbed doses due to a reduced tumor sink effect in early responding, oligometastatic mCRPC patients pose difficulties. Response-adapted, dose distributing, intermittent treatment with up to six cycles has not been routinely performed, due to concerns about the potential loss of disease control. Treatment was discontinued in 19 early-responding patients with oligometastatic tumor burden after two (IQR 2–3) cycles of 177Lu-PSMA-RLT and 6.5 ± 0.7 GBq per cycle and resumed upon 68Ga-PSMA-11-PET/CT-based progression (according to the PCWG3 criteria). Subsequent treatment breaks were imposed if a PSMA-based imaging response could be achieved. A total of five (IQR 3–6) cycles reaching a cumulative activity of 32 ± 11 GBq were applied. A routine blood work-up including blood counts and liver and renal function was measured throughout the 177Lu-PSMA-RLT and follow-up to grade toxicity according to CTCAE v5.0 criteria. Survival outcome was calculated based on the Kaplan–Meier method. In total, treatment-free periods of 9 (IQR 6–17) cumulative months and the application of 177Lu-PSMA-RLT cycles over 16 (IQR 9–22) months could be achieved. Fifteen (84%) patients responded to subsequent cycles after the first treatment break and in 7/19 (37%) patients, intermittent 177Lu-PSMA-RLT consisted of ≥2 treatment breaks. The median PFS was 27 months (95% CI: 23–31) and overall survival was 45 months (95% CI: 28–62). No grade ≥3 hematological or renal toxicities could be observed during the 45 ± 21 months of follow-up. The cumulative mean renal absorbed dose was 16.7 ± 8.3 Gy and 0.53 ± 0.21 Gy/GBq. Intermittent radioligand therapy with 177Lu-PSMA-617 is feasible in early-responding patients with oligometastatic disease. A late onset of progression after subsequent cycles and the absence of significant toxicity warrants further investigation of the concept of intermittent treatment in selected patients.
Editorial: Special Issue on the Epidemiology of Human Papilloma Virus-Associated Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Mills John F. , Monaghan Neil P. , Nguyen Shaun A. , Pang John , Asarkar Ameya A. , Nathan Cherie-Ann O.
Published: September 2023

In this Special Issue of Cancers, the role of oncogenic human papilloma virus (HPV) with oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma is explored […]
Editorial for the Special Issue “Breast Cancer—Therapeutic Challenges, Research Strategies and Novel Diagnostics”
Authors: Nabieva Naiba
Published: September 2023

Worldwide, breast cancer affects over 2 million women a year, with a rising burden [...]
Time Crystal Synthon: The Way to Integrate Cascade Reactions for Advancing Multistep Flow Synthesis
Authors: Sahoo Pathik
Published: September 2023

Multistep flow catalytic reactions in organic chemistry integrate multiple sequential organic reactions to enhance cost-efficiency, time management, and labour resources, all while boosting effectiveness and environmental sustainability. Similar to how we select molecular synthons for reactions in retrosynthesis, we can employ time-crystal synthons to integrate catalytic reaction cycles in the development of a reaction pathway. This involves considering individual catalytic reaction steps of cycles as time-consuming events that can be topologically arranged like a clock. This results in a perpetual machine that violates time translational symmetry, leading to the production of a time crystal. This approach involves transferring a single product from one catalytic cycle to a neighbouring reaction cycle, connecting various reaction vessels vertically to establish a ‘cascade’ of reaction cycles. Additionally, catalytic cycles can be integrated by sharing common reaction steps or implementing a metathesis reaction at the junction zone of two neighbouring cycles. Here, the concept of time-crystal synthons facilitates the linear integration of heterogeneous catalytic cycles, step by step, to transfer products through the common reaction medium when modifying conventional flow synthesis. Significantly, this time-crystal synthon-driven multistep approach offers advantages over conventional flow synthesis, as the reaction vessels can be equipped with microwave and photosynthesis methodologies, allowing for the collection of specific products from their respective vessels as needed, providing more options to integrate reactions and enabling flow control using gravity.
Detection of a Nerve Agent Simulant by a Fluorescent Sensor Array
Authors: Santonocito Rossella , Spina Mario , Puglisi Roberta , Pappalardo Andrea , Tuccitto Nunzio , Trusso Sfrazzetto Giuseppe
Published: September 2023

Detection of nerve agents (NAs) gas in the environment through portable devices to protect people in case of emergencies still remains a challenge for scientists involved in this research field. Current detection strategies require the use of cumbersome, expensive equipment that is only accessible to specialized personnel. By contrast, emerging optical detection is one of the most promising strategies for the development of reliable, easy readout devices. However, the selectivity of the existing optical sensors needs to be improved. To overcome the lack of selectivity, the innovative strategy of the optical arrays is under evaluation due to the specific response, the ease of preparation, the portability of the equipment, and the possibility to use affordable detectors, such as smartphones, that are easily accessible to non-specialized operators. In this work, the first optical-based sensor array for the selective detection of gaseous dimethylmethylphosphonate (DMMP), a NAs simulant, is reported, employing a simple smartphone as a detector and obtaining remarkably efficient and selective detection.
Surface-Catalyzed Zinc Oxide Nanorods and Interconnected Tetrapods as Efficient Methane Gas Sensing Platforms
Authors: Knoepfel Abbey , Poudel Bed , Gupta Sanju
Published: September 2023

Nanostructured metal oxide semiconductors have proven to be promising for the gas sensing domain. However, there are challenges associated with the fabrication of high-performance, low-to-room-temperature operation sensors for methane and other gases, including hydrogen sulfide, carbon dioxide, and ammonia. The functional properties of these semiconducting oxides can be improved by altering the morphology, crystal size, shape, and topology. Zinc oxide (ZnO) is an attractive option for gas sensing, but the need for elevated operating temperatures has limited its practical use as a commercial gas sensor. In this work, we prepared ZnO nanorod (ZnO-NR) arrays and interconnected tetrapod ZnO (T-ZnO) network sensing platforms as chemiresistive methane sensors on silicon substrates with platinum interdigitated electrodes and systematically characterized their methane sensing response in addition to their structural and physical properties. We also conducted surface modification by photochemical-catalyzed palladium, Pd, and Pd-Ag alloy nanoparticles and compared the uniformly distributed Pd decoration versus arrayed dots. The sensing performance was assessed in terms of target gas response magnitude (RM) and response percentage (R) recorded by changes in electrical resistance upon exposure to varying methane concentration (100–10,000 ppm) under thermal (operating temperatures = 175, 200, 230 °C) and optical (UV A, 365 nm illumination) excitations alongside response/recovery times, and limit of detection quantification. Thin film sensing platforms based on T-ZnO exhibited the highest response at 200 °C (RM = 2.98; R = 66.4%) compared to ZnO-NR thin films at 230 °C (RM = 1.34; R = 25.5%), attributed to the interconnected network and effective bandgap and barrier height reduction of the T-ZnO. The Pd-Ag-catalyzed and Pd dot-catalyzed T-ZnO films had the fastest response and recovery rates at 200 °C and room temperature under UV excitation, due to the localized Pd nanoparticles dots resulting in nano Schottky barrier formation, as opposed to the films coated with uniformly distributed Pd nanoparticles. The experimental findings present morphological differences, identify various mechanistic aspects, and discern chemical pathways for methane sensing.
Pathophysiological Implications of Interstitial Cajal-like Cells (ICC-like) in Uterus: A Comparative Study with Gastrointestinal ICCs
Authors: López-Pingarrón Laura , Almeida Henrique , Pereboom-Maicas Desirée , García Joaquín J.
Published: September 2023

The main function of interstitial cells of Cajal (ICCs) is to regulate gastrointestinal peristalsis by acting as a “pacemaker” cell by generating spontaneous slow electrical waves. In 2005, electron microscopy revealed a cell type similar to ICCs (ICC-like) outside the gastrointestinal tract, with contractile activity and c-Kit+ immunohistochemistry shared with ICCs. Among the locations where ICC-like cells have been observed, it is in the uterus where they have a significant functional and pathophysiological role. These cells are involved in obstetric phenomena of contractile action, such as ascending sperm transport, embryo implantation, pregnancy, delivery, and the expulsion of menstrual debris. Within the pathophysiology related to these cells, we find obstetric alterations such as recurrent miscarriages, premature deliveries, abolition of uterine contractions, and failures of embryo implantation, in addition to other common conditions in the fertile age, such as endometriosis and leiomyoma.
Corrosion Behaviors of Artificial Chloride Patina for Studying Bronze Sculpture Corrosion in Marine Environments
Authors: Kwon Heehong
Published: September 2023

Copper trihydroxychlorides, which are known as “bronze disease”, are dangerous corrosion products that compromise the stability and conservation of bronze sculptures. Here, we performed artificial patina corrosion experiments on quaternary bronze (Cu-Zn-Sn-Pb) to examine the corrosion behavior of the chloride patina commonly found in bronze objects in marine environments. The chromaticity and reflectance of the patina in the context of the corrosion products indicate that copper trihydroxychloride, which is commonly found in a single color in marine environments, was produced early in the corrosion experiment. Furthermore, the corrosion of bronze had different effects on the alloying elements, contrary to pure copper corrosion. The chloride patina formed a single patina layer of copper trihydroxychlorides. This patina layer was divided into the outer porous powder and inner uniform layers. Furthermore, the interaction of oxygen in the atmosphere with the corrosion layer and internal oxidation of tin in the alloy promoted powdering. These results provide important basic data for research on sculpture conservation and corrosion characteristics, such as changes in color, chemical composition, and corrosion products on the patina surfaces of outdoor bronze sculptures.
Characterization and Electrochemical Analysis of Acidic Condensate-Induced Corrosion on Aluminized Coating on Steel in Residential Heaters
Authors: Sulejmanovic Dino , Jun Jiheon , Gao Zhiming , Su Yi-Feng
Published: September 2023

Condensing furnace residential heaters are starting to replace outdated and less efficient non-condensing units in homes across the US. However, the burning of natural gas in these new units produces acidic gases, which can form acid droplets (H2SO4, HNO3, H2CO3, etc.) that are corrosive to low-grade heat exchanger metallic materials. Type-1 aluminized steel has been used in industrial applications, such as marine, heating, and automobile parts, due to its resistance to oxidation at elevated temperature. Many components of the condensing furnaces, including heat exchangers, are made from type-1 aluminized steel. We investigated the interaction of type-1 aluminized steel substrates with two acidic condensate liquids by 500 h corrosion exposures as well as short-term electrochemical impedance measurements. SEM plan and cross-sectional view images revealed damage to the Al-Si rich layer and exposure of the steel substrate. The non-uniform damage in the Al-Si rich layer was likely attributed to a pitting corrosion mechanism and induced by high acidity of the condensate liquid. Electrochemical impedance measurements in an acidic condensate revealed lower corrosion resistance of the aluminized steel surface with a weld line, identifying welded sections as preferential corrosion initiation sites.
Green Application of Isolated Colorant from Neem Bark for Mordant-Coated Wool: Optimization of Dyeing and Mordanting for Shade Development
Authors: Adeel Shahid , Zuber Muhammad , Kınık Mustafa , Zor Aydın , Büyükkol Semih , Kahraman Ayşe Derya , Ozomay Meral , Döl Attila , Lehimler Zafer , Khattak Shahnaz Parveen
Published: September 2023

This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of utilizing a tannin-based natural brown colorant from neem bark for dyeing wool under microwave treatment, specifically evaluating its coloring efficiency. The colorant was extracted in a methanol solution that had been acidified both before and after being subjected to microwave treatment for up to 6 min. The dyeing variables were optimized to create new shades of dye with desirable fastness properties, and sustainable chemical and bio-mordants ranging from 1 to 10 g/100 mL were employed. Through experimentation, it was determined that when an unirradiated acidic methanolic extract (AME) with a salt concentration of 3 g/100 mL was applied onto wool fabric (RWF) and subjected to microwave treatment for 4 min, it resulted in a high color yield. This was achieved by heating the solution to 65 °C and allowing it to remain in contact with the fabric for a duration of 65 min. Favorable color characteristics were achieved when utilizing a pre-chemical mordant of 5% Fe and a post-chemical mordant of 5% Fe. In contrast, the utilization of 7% henna as a pre-bio-mordant in combination with 3% turmeric extract as a meta-bio-mordant resulted in favorable color characteristics. The study concludes that microwave treatment exhibits outstanding sustainable efficacy in isolating colorants from neem bark powder for wool dyeing. Incorporating bio-mordants further enhanced the process’s sustainability and eco-friendliness.
Computation to Fight SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19)
Authors: Brogi Simone , Calderone Vincenzo
Published: September 2023

In April 2020, during the last pandemic health emergency, we launched a Special Issue hosted by Computation—section Computational Biology, entitled “Computation to Fight SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19)” [...]
Machine Learning of Nonequilibrium Phase Transition in an Ising Model on Square Lattice
Authors: Tola Dagne Wordofa , Bekele Mulugeta
Published: September 2023

This paper presents the investigation of convolutional neural network (CNN) prediction successfully recognizing the temperature of the nonequilibrium phase transitions in two-dimensional (2D) Ising spins on a square lattice. The model uses image snapshots of ferromagnetic 2D spin configurations as an input shape to provide the average output predictions. By considering supervised machine learning techniques, we perform Metropolis Monte Carlo (MC) simulations to generate the configurations. In the equilibrium Ising model, the Metropolis algorithm respects detailed balance condition (DBC), while its nonequilibrium version violates DBC. Violating the DBC of the algorithm is characterized by a parameter −8<ε<8. We find the exact result of the transition temperature Tc(ε) in terms of ε. If we set ε=0, the usual single spin-flip algorithm can be restored, and the equilibrium configurations generated with such a set up are used to train our model. For ε≠0, the system attains the nonequilibrium steady states (NESS), and the modified algorithm generates NESS configurations (test dataset). The trained model is successfully tested on the test dataset. Our result shows that CNN can determine Tc(ε≠0) for various ε values, consistent with the exact result.
A Comprehensive Analysis of Structural and Functional Changes Induced by SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein Mutations
Authors: Mushebenge Aganze Gloire-Aimé , Ugbaja Samuel Chima , Mbatha Nonkululeko Avril , Khan Rene B. , Kumalo Hezekiel M.
Published: September 2023

The emergence of SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic, has sparked intense research on its spike protein, which is essential for viral entrance into host cells. Viral reproduction and transmission, host immune response regulation, receptor recognition and host cell entrance mechanisms, as well as structural and functional effects have all been linked to mutations in the spike protein. Spike protein mutations can also result in immune evasion mechanisms that impair vaccine effectiveness and escape, and they are linked to illness severity and clinical consequences. Numerous studies have been conducted to determine the effects of these mutations on the spike protein structure and how it interacts with host factors. These results have important implications for the design and development of medicines and vaccines based on spike proteins as well as for the assessment of those products’ efficiency against newly discovered spike protein mutations. This paper gives a general overview of how spike protein mutations are categorized and named. It further looks at the links between spike protein mutations and clinical outcomes, illness severity, unanswered problems, and future research prospects. Additionally, explored are the effects of these mutations on vaccine effectiveness as well as the possible therapeutic targeting of spike protein mutations.
Review of Piezocatalysis and Piezo-Assisted Photocatalysis in Environmental Engineering
Authors: He Juhua , Dong Chencheng , Chen Xiaojuan , Cai Heshan , Chen Xin , Jiang Xueding , Zhang Yan , Peng Anan , Badsha Mohammad A.H.
Published: September 2023

In light of external bias potential separating charge carriers on the photocatalyst surface, piezo materials’ built-in electric field plays a comparable role in enhancing photocatalyst performance. The synergistic effect provided by combining piezo materials assures the future of photocatalysis in practical applications. This paper discusses the principles and mechanisms of piezo-photocatalysis and various materials and structures used for piezo-photocatalytic processes. In piezo-photocatalyst composites, the built-in electric field introduced by the piezo component provides bias potential and extracts photocatalytically generated charge carriers for their subsequent reaction to form reactive oxygen species, which crucially affects the catalytic performance. In the composites, the shape and structure of substrate materials particularly matter. The potential of this technology in other applications, such as energy generation and environmental remediation, are discussed. To shed light on the practical application and future direction of the technique, this review gives opinions on moving the technique forward in terms of material development, process optimization, pilot-scale studies, comprehensive assessment of the technology, and regulatory frameworks to advance practical applications, and by analyzing its principles, applications, and challenges, we hope to inspire further research and development in this field and promote the adoption of piezo-photocatalysis as a viable treatment method for treating emerging pollutants in wastewater.
A Linear Strain-Free Matching Algorithm for Twisted Two-Dimensional Materials
Authors: Wang Chunyu , Jin Xujie , Wu Rongyao , Gao Yang , Wang Xiaoyuan
Published: September 2023

As nano-electronic technology makes electronic devices gradually microscopic in size and diversified in function, obtaining new materials with superior performance is the main goal at this stage. Interfaces formed by adjacent layers of material in electronic devices affect their performance, as does the strain caused by lattice mismatch, which can be simulated and analyzed by theoretical calculations. The common period of the cell changes when the van der Waals (vdW) material is twisted. Therefore, it is a significant challenge to determine the common supercell of two crystals constituting the interface. Here. we present a novel cell matching algorithm for twisted bilayer vdW materials with orthogonal unit cells, where the resulting common supercell remains orthogonal and only angular strains exist without linear strains, facilitating accuracy control. We apply this method to 2-Pmmn twisted bilayer borophene. It can automatically find the resource-allowed common supercell at multiple rotation angles or fix the rotation angle to find the proper accuracy.
FAM83H Expression Is Associated with Tumor-Infiltrating PD1-Positive Lymphocytes and Predicts the Survival of Breast Carcinoma Patients
Authors: Choi Ji Eun , Ahn Ae Ri , Zhang Junyue , Kim Kyoung Min , Park Ho Sung , Lee Ho , Chung Myoung Ja , Moon Woo Sung , Jang Kyu Yun
Published: September 2023

Background: FAM83H has been implicated in cancer progression, and PD1 is an important target for anti-cancer immune checkpoint therapy. Recent studies suggest an association between FAM83H expression and immune infiltration. However, studies on the roles of FAM83H and its relationship with PD1 in breast carcinomas have been limited. Methods: Immunohistochemical expression of FAM83H and PD1 and their prognostic significance were evaluated in 198 breast carcinomas. Results: The expression of FAM83H in cancer cells was significantly associated with the presence of PD1-positive lymphoid cells within breast carcinoma tissue. Individual and co-expression patterns of nuclear FAM83H and PD1 were significantly associated with shorter survival of breast carcinomas in univariate analysis. In multivariate analysis, the expression of nuclear FAM83H (overall survival, p < 0.001; relapse-free survival, p = 0.003), PD1 (overall survival, p < 0.001; relapse-free survival, p = 0.003), and co-expression patterns of nuclear FAM83H and PD1 (overall survival, p < 0.001; relapse-free survival, p < 0.001) were the independent indicators of overall survival and relapse-free survival of breast carcinoma patients. Conclusions: This study suggests a close association between FAM83H expression and the infiltration of PD1-positive lymphoid cells in breast carcinomas and their expression as the prognostic indicators for breast carcinoma patients, and further studies are needed to clarify this relationship.
A Key Role of CD8+ T Cells in Controlling of Tuberculosis Infection
Authors: Kudryavtsev Igor , Zinchenko Yulia , Serebriakova Maria , Akisheva Tatiana , Rubinstein Artem , Savchenko Andrei , Borisov Alexandr , Belenjuk Vasilij , Malkova Anna , Yablonskiy Piotr , Kudlay Dmitry , Starshinova Anna
Published: September 2023

The main role in the control of tuberculosis infection is played by macrophages and Th1 and CD8+ T cells. The study aimed to identify the most diagnostically significant CD8+ T cell subsets in tuberculosis patients. Methods: Peripheral blood samples from patients with clinical, radiological, and bacteriologically confirmed pulmonary tuberculosis (TB, n = 32) and healthy subjects (HC, n = 31) were collected and analyzed using 10-color flow cytometry. Results: The frequency of the EM4 CD3+CD8+ cells was reduced in the peripheral blood of patients with pulmonary tuberculosis, while the relative and absolute number of EM1 CD3+CD8+ cells increased compared to the control group. CD57 expression was reduced in patients with pulmonary tuberculosis on EM1, EM2, and pE1 CD3+CD8+ cells, whereas the EM3 cells had a high level of CD57 expression. The relative and absolute number of Tc2 (CCR6–CXCR3–) cells in peripheral blood in patients with pulmonary tuberculosis was increased, while the frequency of Tc1 (CCR6–CXCR3+) was decreased, compared to healthy donors. Conclusions: Patients with pulmonary tuberculosis have an abnormal CD3+CD8+ cell profile and demonstrate their impaired maturation and functional activity.
Assessing Bone Mineral Density in Weight-Bearing Regions of the Body through Texture Analysis of Abdomen and Pelvis CT Hounsfield Unit
Authors: Kim Min Woo , Huh Jung Wook , Noh Young Min , Seo Han Eol , Lee Dong Ha
Published: September 2023

Objective: This study aimed to develop a novel method for opportunistically screening osteoporosis by measuring bone mineral density (BMD) from CT images. We addressed the limitations of commercially available software and introduced texture analysis using Hounsfield units (HU) as an alternative approach. Methods: A total of 458 samples (296 patients) were selected from a dataset of 1320 cases (782 patients) between 1 March 2013, and 30 August 2022. BMD measurements were obtained from the ilium, femoral neck, intertrochanteric region of both femurs, and L1–L5 and sacrum spine body. The region of interest (ROI) for each patient’s CT scan was defined as the maximum trabecular area of the spine body, ilium, femoral neck, and femur intertrochanter. Using gray-level co-occurrence matrices, we extracted 45 texture features from each ROI. Linear regression analysis was employed to predict BMD, and the top five influential texture features were identified. Results: The linear regression (LR) model yielded correlation coefficients (R-squared values) for total lumbar BMD, total lumbar BMC, total femur BMD, total femur BMC, femur neck BMD, femur neck BMC, femur intertrochanter BMD, and femur intertrochanter BMC as follows: 0.643, 0.667, 0.63, 0.635, 0.631, 0.636, 0.68, and 0.68, respectively. Among the 45 texture features considered, the top five influential factors for BMD prediction were Entropy, autocorrelate_32, autocorrelate_32_volume, autocorrelate_64, and autocorrelate_64_volume.