bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neutrophil Extracellular Traps and Pancreatic Cancer Development: A Vicious Cycle
Authors: Mitsis Michail , Drosou Panagiota , Tatsis Vasileios , Markopoulos Georgios S.
Published: July 2022

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are a neutrophil-generated extracellular network of chromatin and chromatin-bound molecules with antimicrobial potency. Recent data suggest that NETs are associated with cancer progression and cancer-associated hypercoagulability. Pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a lethal type of cancer in which hypercoagulability and cancer-related thrombosis are among the main complications. In the current report, we summarize the available data on the interplay between NET formation and PDAC development. We conclude that NETs support a dual role during PDAC progression and metastasis. Their formation is on the one hand an important event that shapes the cancer microenvironment to support cancer cell proliferation, invasion and metastasis. On the other hand, NETs may lead to cancer-associated thrombosis. Both mechanisms seem to be dependent on distinct molecular mechanisms that link inflammation to cancer progression. Collectively, NET formation may contribute to the pathogenesis of PDAC, while during cancer development, the proinflammatory environment enables the induction of new NETs and thrombi, forming a vicious cycle. We suggest that targeting NET formation may be an effective mechanism to inhibit both PDAC development and the accompanying hypercoagulability.
Photoreduction of CO2 into CH4 Using Novel Composite of Triangular Silver Nanoplates on Graphene-BiVO4
Authors: Zhu Zhen , Jiang Bo-Xun , Wu Ren-Jang , Huang Cheng-Liang , Chang You
Published: July 2022

Plasmonic photocatalysis, combing noble metal nanoparticles (NMNPs) with semiconductors, has been widely studied and proven to perform better than pure semiconductors. The plasmonic effects are mainly based on the localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) of NMNPs. The LSPR wavelength depends on several parameters, such as size, shape, the surrounding media, and the interdistance of the NMNPs. In this study, graphene-modified plate-like BiVO4 composites, combined with silver nanoplates (AgNPts), were successfully prepared and used as a photocatalyst for CO2 photoconversion. Triangular silver nanoplates (TAgNPts), icosahedral silver nanoparticles (I-AgNPs), and decahedra silver nanoparticles (D-AgNPs) were synthesized using photochemical methods and introduced to the nanocomposites to compare the shape-dependent plasmonic effect. Among them, T-AgNPts/graphene/BiVO4 exhibited the highest photoreduction efficiency of CO2 to CH4, at 18.1 μmolg−1h−1, which is 5.03 times higher than that of pure BiVO4 under the irradiation of a Hg lamp. A possible CO2 photoreduction mechanism was proposed to explain the synergetic effect of each component in TAgNPts/graphene/BiVO4. This high efficiency reveals the importance of considering the compositions of photocatalysts for converting CO2 to solar fuels.
Photo–Redox Properties of –SO3H Functionalized Metal-Free g-C3N4 and Its Application in the Photooxidation of Sunset Yellow FCF and Photoreduction of Cr (VI)
Authors: Venkatesvaran Harikrishnan , Balu Sridharan , Chowdhury Anuradha , Chen Shih-Wen , Yang Thomas C.-K.
Published: July 2022

In this work, we synthesized a metal-free sulfonic functionalized graphitic carbon nitride using sulfuric acid through the wet impregnation technique. The functionalization of sulfonic groups (–SO3H) on g-C3N4 will promote a high surface charge density and charge separation owing to its high electronegativity. The g-C3N4–SO3H shows excellent optical/electronic and surface properties towards enhanced photo–redox reactions. The sulfonic groups also facilitate the availability of more separated charge carriers for photocatalytic oxidation and reduction reactions. The as-synthesized material has been characterized by different spectroscopic tools to confirm the presence of functionalized –SO3H groups and optoelectronic possessions. The photocatalytic responses of g-C3N4–SO3H result in 99.56% photoreduction of Cr (VI) and 99.61% photooxidation of Sunset Yellow FCF within 16 min and 20 min, respectively, of visible light irradiation. The g-C3N4–SO3H catalyst exhibits a high apparent rate constant (Kapp) towards the degradation of Cr (VI), and SSY, i.e., 0.783 min−1 and 0.706 min−1, respectively. The intense optical–electrochemical properties and potentially involved active species have been analyzed through transient photocurrent, electrochemical impedance, and scavenging studies. Consequently, the photocatalytic performances are studied under different reaction parameters, and the plausible photocatalytic mechanism is discussed based on the results.
Substituent’s Effects of PNP Ligands in Ru(II)-Catalyzed CO2 Hydrogenation to Formate: Theoretical Analysis Considering Steric Hindrance and Promotion of Hydrogen Bonding
Authors: Feng Xiangyang , Li Jun , Yang Zhuhong
Published: July 2022

This paper investigates the effects of substituents in PNP-type ruthenium complexes in the catalytic hydrogenation of CO2 to formate using the DFT method. Six groups were considered as substituents linked to the P atom of the PNP ligand: hydrogen, methyl, iso-propyl, tert-butyl, cyclopentyl, and cyclohexyl. The substituent effects were analyzed from the perspectives of steric hindrance and promotion of hydrogen bonding. With the joint functions of steric hindrance and hydrogen bonding promotion during the CO2 coordination step, hydride addition step, and HCOO− rotation step, these groups exhibited very different substituent effects. The results showed that the methyl group was the most favorable substituent when the solvent’s effects were not included, as it formed hydrogen bonding with relatively weak steric hindrance. The second favorable substituent was the iso-propyl group, while the tert-butyl group was the most unfavorable one, due to remarkable steric hindrance. When the substituent was cyclopentyl or cyclohexyl, the complex provided a wider open space for the reaction compared with the tert-butyl-substituted complex, because cyclopentyl and cyclohexyl are cyclic groups. Therefore, the principle for choosing the substituent in PNP-type complexes allowing the design of highly efficient catalysts for CO2 hydrogenation indicates that more hydrogen atoms but wider open space are ideal. In addition, the substituent’s effects can be markedly impacted by the solvent used.
A Novel Cre/lox71-Based System for Inducible Expression of Recombinant Proteins and Genome Editing
Authors: Karagyaur Maxim , Dyikanov Daniyar , Tyurin-Kuzmin Pyotr , Dzhauari Stalik , Skryabina Mariya , Vigovskiy Maksim , Primak Alexandra , Kalinina Natalia , Tkachuk Vsevolod
Published: July 2022

In this study, we developed a novel Cre/lox71-based system for the controlled transient expression of target genes. We used the bacteriophage P1 Cre recombinase, which harbors a short, highly specific DNA-binding site and does not have endogenous binding sites within mouse or human genomes. Fusing the catalytically inactive form of Cre recombinase and the VP64 transactivation domain (VP16 tetramer), we constructed the artificial transcription factor Cre-VP64. This transcription factor binds to the lox71 sites within the promoter region of the target gene and, therefore, upregulates its expression. We tested the Cre-VP64/lox71 system for the controlled expression of several genes, including growth factors and the genome editor CRISPR/Cas9, and obtained superior efficiency in the regulation of transgene expression, achieving a high expression level upon induction together with low basal activity. This system or its modified forms can be suggested as a novel effective tool for the transitory controlled expression of target genes for functional genomic studies, as well as for gene therapy approaches.
Seminal-Plasma-Mediated Effects on Sperm Performance in Humans
Authors: Turunen Tanja , Magris Martina , Malinen Marjo , Kekäläinen Jukka
Published: July 2022

Seminal plasma (SP) plays a crucial role in reproduction and contains a large number of proteins, many of which may potentially modify sperm functionality. To evaluate the effects of SP identity and its protein composition on human sperm function, we treated the sperm of several males with either their own or multiple foreign SPs in all possible sperm–SP combinations (full-factorial design). Then we recorded sperm motility and viability in these combinations and investigated whether the sperm performance is dependent on sperm and SP identity (or their interaction). Finally, we studied whether the above-mentioned sperm traits are affected by the abundance of three SP proteins, dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP4), neutral endopeptidase (NEP), and aminopeptidase N (APN). The identity of the SP donor affected sperm swimming velocity, viability, and the proportion of hyperactivated sperm, but males’ own SP was not consistently more beneficial for sperm than foreign SPs. Furthermore, we show that sperm performance is also partly affected by the interaction between sperm and SP donor. Finally, we found that DPP4 and NEP levels in SP were positively associated with sperm swimming velocity and hyperactivation. Taken together, our results highlight the importance of seminal plasma as a potential source of biomarkers for diagnostics and therapeutic interventions for male-derived infertility.
Iron-Induced Oxidative Stress in Human Diseases
Authors: Kawabata Teruyuki
Published: July 2022

Iron is responsible for the regulation of several cell functions. However, iron ions are catalytic and dangerous for cells, so the cells sequester such redox-active irons in the transport and storage proteins. In systemic iron overload and local pathological conditions, redox-active iron increases in the human body and induces oxidative stress through the formation of reactive oxygen species. Non-transferrin bound iron is a candidate for the redox-active iron in extracellular space. Cells take iron by the uptake machinery such as transferrin receptor and divalent metal transporter 1. These irons are delivered to places where they are needed by poly(rC)-binding proteins 1/2 and excess irons are stored in ferritin or released out of the cell by ferroportin 1. We can imagine transit iron pool in the cell from iron import to the export. Since the iron in the transit pool is another candidate for the redox-active iron, the size of the pool may be kept minimally. When a large amount of iron enters cells and overflows the capacity of iron binding proteins, the iron behaves as a redox-active iron in the cell. This review focuses on redox-active iron in extracellular and intracellular spaces through a biophysical and chemical point of view.
Development of a Paper-Based Analytical Method for the Selective Colorimetric Determination of Bismuth in Water Samples
Authors: Bizirtsakis Panagiotis A. , Tarara Maria , Tsiasioti Apostolia , Tzanavaras Paraskevas D. , Tsogas George Z.
Published: July 2022

A novel, direct and simple colorimetric method employing μicroanalytical paper-based devices (μ-PADs) for the selective determination of bismuth is described. The suggested method exploits the colorimetric variation of bismuth after its rapid reaction with methyl thymol blue (MTB) in an acidic medium (pH ranging between 0.7 and 3.0), modified with nitric acid, on the surface of a paper device at room temperature. The devices are low cost, composed of chromatographic paper and wax barriers and the analytical protocol is easily applicable with minimal technical expertise and without the need for experimental apparatus. The user must add a test sample and read the color intensity of the colored Bi(III)–MTB complex formed at the sensing area using a simple imaging device such as a flatbed scanner. Various chemical variables, such as HNO3 and MTB concentration, reaction time, ionic strength, detection zone size and photo-capture detector are optimized. A study of interfering ions such as K+, Na+, Ca2+, Mg2+, Cl−, SO42− and HCO3− was also conducted. The stability of the paper devices is also studied in different maintenance conditions with particularly satisfactory results, rendering the method suitable for field analysis. The detection limits are as low as 3.0 mg L−1 with very satisfactory precision, ranging from 4.0% (intra-day) to 5.5% (inter-day). Natural water samples are successfully analyzed, and bismuth percentage recoveries were calculated in the range of 82.8 to 115.4%.
Design and Evaluation of Low-Power Co3O4 Gas Sensing Element as a Part of Cyber Physical Systems
Authors: Moschogiannaki Marilena , Vardakis George , Gagaoudakis Emmanouil , Papadakis Stefanos , Binas Vassilios
Published: July 2022

Physical processes working in parallel with digital ones have transformed the way we view systems and have led to the creation of applications that boost the quality of people’s lives, increase security as well as decrease production costs of goods. Critical to this evolution is the cost decrease in the components of such systems, among which are gas sensors. In this work, a custom-made Co3O4 gas sensing element is presented, which can potentially be used as part of a cyber-physical system (CPS) for O3 monitoring. To investigate its performance, a CPS is developed using low-cost, low-power micro-controller units (MCUs) and comparisons both with the laboratory equipment and commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) ozone sensors are provided. The experiments show that the Co3O4 sensor works at room temperature with low input voltage and low power consumption when used with the proposed MCUs. Moreover, an enhanced gas sensing performance against ozone is observed under low-pressure conditions due to the detection of low ozone concentrations (85.90 ppb) and good sensor response (113.1%) towards 1100 ppb O3. However, the drawbacks that need improvement relate to the kinetics of the charge carriers, which affect the response time and recovery behavior. The effect of humidity needs to be clarified in further works.
Developmental Coordination Disorder and Joint Hypermobility in Childhood: A Narrative Review
Authors: Romeo Domenico M. , Venezia Ilaria , De Biase Margherita , Ascione Federica , Lala Maria Rosaria , Arcangeli Valentina , Mercuri Eugenio , Brogna Claudia
Published: July 2022

Children with developmental coordination disorder (DCD) and joint hypermobility could present an overlap of symptoms and motor functional difficulties. The link between these two clinical conditions has not yet been clarified. Recent studies reported a high incidence (30–50%) of motor delay in children who are referred to hypermobility and of enhanced joint hypermobility in children with DCD. The aim of this study was to provide a critical review of the literature outlining the association between DCD or limited motor performance and joint hypermobility. Studies were eligible for inclusion if they were written in English and human-based. All the studies were first selected, looking for the presence of a clinical association between developmental coordination disorder or motor performance and hyperlaxity and reporting details of outcome. After a review of the full texts, 16 articles for a total of 1898 children met the inclusion criteria. In general, there was evidence of a higher incidence of motor delay or DCD in children who are referred to hypermobility and of enhanced joint hypermobility in children with DCD with similar range of functional difficulties. These results could influence the way to support children with rehabilitation and the type of intervention according to the prevalence of one of the two conditions.
Long-Term Efficacy of the Combination of Active Vision Therapy and Occlusion in Children with Strabismic and Anisometropic Amblyopia
Authors: Milla Myriam , Molina-Martín Ainhoa , Piñero David P.
Published: July 2022

This retrospective study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of the combined treatment of occlusion and active vision therapy in a total of 27 amblyopic children, including 14 strabismic and 13 anisometropic cases. For such purpose, changes in distance and near visual acuity as well as in the binocular function was evaluated during a two-year follow-up. In both amblyopia groups, significant improvements were found in distance and near visual acuity in the non-dominant eye (p < 0.001). In the strabismic amblyopia group, the percentage of patients with binocular function score (BF) > 3.3 decreased significantly from a baseline value of 64.3% to a two-year follow-up value of 7.1% (p < 0.001). In the anisometropic amblyopia group, this percentage also decreased significantly from a baseline value of 15.4% to a two-year follow-up value of 0.0% (p < 0.001). No recurrences were observed in the anisometropic amblyopia group, whereas recurrence occurred in two cases of the strabismic amblyopia group after finishing the vision rehabilitation process. In conclusion, the combined approach of the treatment evaluated is efficacious for providing an improvement in visual acuity and binocular function in both anisometropic and strabismic amblyopia, which was maintained over time.
Standalone Axial Malrotation after Pediatric Supracondylar Fracture Does Not Seem to Be an Indication for Immediate Postoperative Revision Surgery
Authors: Greve Frederik , Müller Michael , Wurm Markus , Biberthaler Peter , Singer Georg , Till Holger , Wegmann Helmut
Published: July 2022

Rotational spurs as evidence for post-surgical malrotation are frequently observed when treating pediatric supracondylar humeral fractures (SCHFs). This study aimed to investigate the long-term outcome of a pediatric cohort with unrevised axial malrotation and to discuss the indication for revision surgery. Postoperative radiographs of children treated for SCHFs over eight years were retrospectively analyzed. Children with radiological signs of malrotation (von Laer malrotation quotient) were invited for a follow-up clinical and radiological examination. Among 338 treated children, 39 (11.5%) with a mean age of 5.3 years (range 1.8–11.7 years) showed radiological signs for postoperative malrotation and were not revised and therefore invited to participate in the study. Twelve patients (31%) with a mean age of 11.3 years (range 8.8–13.8 years) took part in the follow-up examination after a mean of 7.1 years (range 5.4 to 11.3 years). The mean postoperative van Laer malrotation quotient was 0.15 (range 0.11–0.2). At follow-up, the range of motion of the elbow joint was not significantly different compared to the contralateral side. Apart from the humeral ulnar angle (p = 0.023), there were no significant differences in the radiological axes. The Flynn criteria were excellent and good in 90% of the cases. The mean was 1.7 points indicating excellent subjective results. Standalone postoperative malrotation did not lead to an adverse long-term outcome in a small cohort of pediatric patients with SCHFs and did not indicate immediate postoperative revision surgery. However, further investigations with larger cohorts should verify whether additional criteria such as stability of the osteosynthesis and signs for increasing valgus or varus displacement in the follow-up radiographs should get more importance in decision making.
Apophyseal Avulsion of the Rectus Femoris Tendon Origin in Adolescent Soccer Players
Authors: Weel Hanneke , Joosten A. J. Peter , van Bergen Christiaan J. A.
Published: July 2022

Apophyseal avulsions of the rectus femorus tendon (RFT) at the anterior inferior iliac spine (AIIS) can occur in adolescents, often while performing soccer. Patient-reported outcomes (PROMs) and time to return to sport of these patients are relatively unknown. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the PROMs and return to sports of patients with AIIS avulsions and compare the results with those reported in the literature. This is a case series of seven consecutive patients presenting at our hospital between 2018 and 2020 with an apophyseal avulsion of the RFT from the AIIS. The patients were assessed with use of the WOMAC and Tegner scores and return to sports was evaluated. All patients were male soccer players (median age 13 years; range, 12–17). They were all initially treated non-operatively. One of the patients subsequently needed excision surgery of a heterotopic ossification because of non-transient hip impingement. All other patients recovered after a period of relative rest. Median time to return to sports was 2.5 months (range, 2–3). At a median follow-up of 33 months (range, 18–45), the WOMAC (median, 100; range, 91–100) and Tegner scores (median, 9; range, 5–9) were high. In accordance with the existing literature, most patients with apophyseal avulsions of the AIIS recover well with non-operative treatment. However, the avulsion can lead to hip impingement due to heterotopic ossifications possibly needing surgical excision. Sport resumption is achievable after 2–3 months, and patient-reported outcomes are highly satisfactory in the long term.
Baastrup’s Disease in Pediatric Gymnasts
Authors: Ali Arsalan Akbar , Jacobs Benjamin Matthew , Gandhi Artee , Brooks Meredith
Published: July 2022

Baastrup’s disease is a rare, often misdiagnosed, and causes back pain in children. It is characterized by degenerative changes of both spinous processes and interspinous soft tissues between two adjacent vertebrae. Repetitive spinal movements in the sagittal plane predispose injury to posterior elements of the spine. Chronic flexion and extension strain the interspinous ligament, causing the neighboring spinous processes to adjoin. Patients typically report midline back pain in the lumbar region, which radiates both cephalad and caudad but not laterally. Pain is aggravated by extension and palpation and is alleviated with flexion. Some children with Baastrup’s do not experience pain but present with swelling along the spinous processes. Diagnosis is dependent on distinctive radiologic findings and exam features. Increased interspinous spaces and bone remodeling may be observed. While the current treatment for pain associated with Baastrup’s is directed towards physical therapy, massage therapy, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, muscle relaxants, and rest from activity, this is the first report of children undergoing interventional modalities for the treatment of back pain associated with Baastrup’s disease. We present two unique pediatric cases of female gymnasts with Baastrup’s disease who were successfully treated by two different techniques: interspinous ligament injection and medial branch block.
Helicobacter pylori Eradication Efficacy of Therapy Based on the Antimicrobial Susceptibility in Children with Gastritis and Peptic Ulcer in Mekong Delta, Vietnam
Authors: Le Loan T. T. , Nguyen Tuan A. , Nguyen Nghia A. , Nguyen Yen T. H. , Nguyen Hai T. B. , Nguyen Liem T. , Vi Mai T. , Nguyen Thang
Published: July 2022

Background: The efficacy of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) eradication therapy for children is currently low, and antibiotic resistance is a significant cause of treatment failure. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the H. pylori eradication efficacy of therapy based on antimicrobial susceptibility in pediatric patients with gastritis and peptic ulcer. Methods: This study was conducted at Can Tho Children’s Hospital and Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital between March 2019 and April 2022. We performed an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, cultured H. pylori from biopsies of gastric mucosa, determined antibiotic sensitivities to H. pylori by the E-test method, and treated eradication based on the antibiotic susceptibilities of bacteria. After at least 4 weeks of eradication therapy, we assessed the effectiveness of treatment with a breath test. Results: Among 237 children recruited in this study, 48.9% were boys and 51.1% were girls, and the mean age was 10.03 ± 2.53 years. We determined that 80.6% of H. pylori were resistant to clarithromycin, as well as amoxicillin, metronidazole, levofloxacin, and tetracycline, at 71.7%, 49.4%, 45.1%, and 11.4%, respectively. The overall eradication rate of H. pylori was 83.1% (172/207). Among therapies tailored to antimicrobial susceptibility, the bismuth quadruple regimen achieved the greatest success, but the efficacy of triple therapy with esomeprazole + AMX + CLR/MTZ was low. Conclusions: Tailored eradication therapy was highly successful in our study but did not achieve over 90%. We recommend that in countries with a high prevalence of antibiotic resistance in H. pylori strains, particularly where the amoxicillin-resistance rate of H. pylori is high, therapy tailored to antimicrobial susceptibility should be used as first-line therapy, and bismuth and tetracycline should be added to enhance the eradication efficacy in children.
Consequences of Transplacental Transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 Virus: A Single-Center Experience
Authors: Djordjevic Ivona , Kostic Ana , Budic Ivana , Vacic Nikola , Elek Zlatan , Konstantinovic Strahinja
Published: July 2022

The issues of vertical viral transmission from mother to fetus and the potential complications caused by SARS-CoV-2 coagulopathy are still unclear. There are few literature data about the vertical transmission of SARS-CoV-2 and health outcomes in neonates born to mothers with symptomatic or asymptomatic coronavirus disease, with the existing data based on small sample sizes. This case series study consists of two newborn children (one pre-term and one term) who were born to SARS-CoV-2-positive mothers and admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit a few hours after birth. One child had cyanotic changes that affected the entire left leg and the left forearm, with multiple livid changes on the front of the chest and abdomen, the right upper arm, right thigh, neck, and face, and one child had an altered umbilical cord. The first child was treated conservatively, and the second child was treated surgically.
Challenges and Opportunities of Using Titanium Dioxide Photocatalysis on Cement-Based Materials
Authors: Castro-Hoyos Angélica María , Rojas Manzano Manuel Alejandro , Maury-Ramírez Aníbal
Published: July 2022

Since the early seventies with the work of Akira Fujishima on photocatalytic and superhydrophilic properties of titanium dioxide (TiO2), also known as the Honda–Fujishima effect, photocatalysis has been investigated and progressively implemented in cement-based materials towards the development of self-cleaning, air-purifying and antiseptic materials, buildings and infrastructure. Although important achievements have been obtained at the laboratory scale, their real scale application has had some limitations mainly due to the low efficiencies obtained during adverse environmental conditions. Therefore, this article presents the challenges and opportunities of using of titanium dioxide in cement-based materials towards the development of truly efficient sustainable building materials. First, TiO2 photocatalysis and its incorporation in cementitious materials are presented. Second, self-cleaning, air-purifying and antimicrobial properties are discussed in terms of the lab and pilot project results. Third, conclusions regarding the different multifunctional properties are given towards the real application of TiO2 photocatalysis. Particularly, complementary technologies and strategies are presented in order to increase the above-mentioned multifunctional properties.
Population Genetic Differentiation and Structure of Maruca vitrata (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) in India
Authors: Mahalle Rashmi Manohar , Chakravarty Snehel , Srivastava Chandra Prakash
Published: July 2022

Maruca vitrata is one of the primary biotic constraints for pigeon pea production in India. The present study assessed the genetic variation and population structure of M. vitrata from diverse agro-ecologies in India using the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase I gene. A low number of segregating sites (10), haplotypes (13), nucleotide diversity (0.00136), and overall mean genetic distance (0.0013) were observed among the populations. The negative values of the neutrality tests and unimodal mismatch distribution supported its demographic expansion in the country. The analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) revealed that the variation among populations or groups was only 13.91%, and the geographical distance did not significantly contribute to the genetic differentiation (R2 = 0.0024, p = 0.280). The clustering of haplotypes was also independent of the geographical location. Overall, our results suggest the existence of low genetic variation and high gene flow among populations of M. vitrata in India.
A New Look at Excavation Techniques and Design of Rock-Cut Architectures
Authors: Mangeli Mohammad , Aram Farshid , Abouei Reza , Mehdizadeh Saradj Fatemeh
Published: July 2022

Rock-cut architecture is an essential yet little-known type of vernacular architecture whose nature is different from what we understand by the term “architecture”. This research seeks to answer the question of which technics, designs and digging procedures have been applied in this type of vernacular architecture. Out of the 300 rock-cut buildings and complexes found in Iran, nearly 70 were functionally assessed. Ten complexes were found to serve residential functions in different climates. Technique, type and the settlement context material were also briefly compared and contrasted, and thus, three general excavation techniques were recognized. The largest rock-cut residential complex in Iran, Meymand, was selected as the main case study. Fifty residential units in the oldest part of the village in two regions on both sides of the main valley were studied in terms of technique and design style. They were also compared and contrasted. The quantitative data obtained in this section were compared and contrasted using the descriptive statistical method. Although the rock-cut buildings are dispersed throughout Iran, three main techniques were employed to excavate them. Most of them were excavated using two or three of the said techniques. Application of the fine technique and the size of the particles constituting the settlement context are the two factors determining the quality of excavation. The findings in the area of special climatic design standards and technologies not only give us a better insight into rock-cut architecture but also contribute to setting some standards for design and construction of rock-cut buildings in the present era.
Cytogenetic and Genetic Abnormalities with Diagnostic Value in Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS): Focus on the Pre-Messenger RNA Splicing Process
Authors: Douet-Guilbert Nathalie , Soubise Benoît , Bernard Delphine G. , Troadec Marie-Bérengère
Published: July 2022

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are considered to be diseases associated with splicing defects. A large number of genes involved in the pre-messenger RNA splicing process are mutated in MDS. Deletion of 5q and 7q are of diagnostic value, and those chromosome regions bear the numbers of splicing genes potentially deleted in del(5q) and del(7q)/-7 MDS. In this review, we present the splicing genes already known or suspected to be implicated in MDS pathogenesis. First, we focus on the splicing genes located on chromosome 5 (HNRNPA0, RBM27, RBM22, SLU7, DDX41), chromosome 7 (LUC7L2), and on the SF3B1 gene since both chromosome aberrations and the SF3B1 mutation are the only genetic abnormalities in splicing genes with clear diagnostic values. Then, we present and discuss other splicing genes that are showing a prognostic interest (SRSF2, U2AF1, ZRSR2, U2AF2, and PRPF8). Finally, we discuss the haploinsufficiency of splicing genes, especially from chromosomes 5 and 7, the important amplifier process of splicing defects, and the cumulative and synergistic effect of splicing genes defects in the MDS pathogenesis. At the time, when many authors suggest including the sequencing of some splicing genes to improve the diagnosis and the prognosis of MDS, a better understanding of these cooperative defects is needed.
Influence of CT Image Matrix Size and Kernel Type on the Assessment of HRCT in Patients with SSC-ILD
Authors: Balmer Bettina D. , Blüthgen Christian , Bässler Bettina , Martini Katharina , Huber Florian A. , Ruby Lisa , Schönenberger Amadéa , Frauenfelder Thomas
Published: July 2022

Background: Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is a frequent complication of systemic sclerosis (SSc), and its early detection and treatment may prevent deterioration of lung function. Different vendors have recently made larger image matrices available as a post-processing option for computed tomography (CT), which could facilitate the diagnosis of SSc-ILD. Therefore, the objective of this study was to assess the effect of matrix size on lung image quality in patients with SSc by comparing a 1024-pixel matrix to a standard 512-pixel matrix and applying different reconstruction kernels. Methods: Lung scans of 50 patients (mean age 54 years, range 23–85 years) with SSc were reconstructed with these two different matrix sizes, after determining the most appropriate kernel in a first step. Four observers scored the images on a five-point Likert scale regarding image quality and detectability of clinically relevant findings. Results: Among the eight tested kernels, the Br59-kernel (sharp) reached the highest score (19.48 ± 3.99), although differences did not reach statistical significance. The 1024-pixel matrix scored higher than the 512-pixel matrix HRCT overall (p = 0.01) and in the subcategories sharpness (p < 0.01), depiction of bronchiole (p < 0.01) and overall image impression (p < 0.01), and lower for the detection of ground-glass opacities (GGO) (p = 0.04). No significant differences were found for detection of extent of reticulations/bronchiectasis/fibrosis (p = 0.50) and image noise (p = 0.09). Conclusions: Our results show that with the use of a sharp kernel, the 1024-pixel matrix HRCT, provides a slightly better subjective image quality in terms of assessing interstitial lung changes, whereby GGO are more visible on the 512-pixel matrix. However, it remains to be answered to what extent this is related to the improved representation of the smallest structures.
Gastrointestinal Tract Microbiome Effect and Role in Disease Development
Authors: Crnčević Neira , Hukić Mirsada , Deumić Sara , Selimagić Amir , Dozić Ada , Gavrankapetanović Ismet , Klepo Dženana , Avdić Monia
Published: July 2022

In recent years, it has been shown that gastrointestinal microflora has a substantial impact on the development of a large number of chronic diseases. The imbalance in the number or type of microbes in the gastrointestinal tract can lead to diseases and conditions, including autism spectrum disorder, celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, diabetes, and small bowel cancers. This can occur as a result of genetics, alcohol, tobacco, chemotherapeutics, cytostatics, as well as antibiotic overuse. Due to this, essential taxa can be lost, and the host’s metabolism can be severely affected. A less known condition called small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) can be seen in patients who suffer from hypochlorhydria and small intestine cancers. It is characterized as a state in which the bacterial population in the small intestine exceeds 105–106 organisms/mL. The latest examination methods such as double-balloon enteroscopy and wireless capsule endoscopy have the potential to increase the accuracy and precision of diagnosis and provide better patient care. This review paper aims to summarize the effect of the gastrointestinal environment on chronic disease severity and the development of cancers.
Lossless Medical Image Compression by Using Difference Transform
Authors: Rojas-Hernández Rafael , Díaz-de-León-Santiago Juan Luis , Barceló-Alonso Grettel , Bautista-López Jorge , Trujillo-Mora Valentin , Salgado-Ramírez Julio César
Published: July 2022

This paper introduces a new method of compressing digital images by using the Difference Transform applied in medical imaging. The Difference Transform algorithm performs the decorrelation process of image data, and in this way improves the encoding process, achieving a file with a smaller size than the original. The proposed method proves to be competitive and in many cases better than the standards used for medical images such as TIFF or PNG. In addition, the Difference Transform can replace other transforms like Cosine or Wavelet.
Exploring the Multiverse of Analytical Decisions in Scaling Educational Large-Scale Assessment Data: A Specification Curve Analysis for PISA 2018 Mathematics Data
Authors: Robitzsch Alexander
Published: July 2022

In educational large-scale assessment (LSA) studies such as PISA, item response theory (IRT) scaling models summarize students’ performance on cognitive test items across countries. This article investigates the impact of different factors in model specifications for the PISA 2018 mathematics study. The diverse options of the model specification also firm under the labels multiverse analysis or specification curve analysis in the social sciences. In this article, we investigate the following five factors of model specification in the PISA scaling model for obtaining the two country distribution parameters; country means and country standard deviations: (1) the choice of the functional form of the IRT model, (2) the treatment of differential item functioning at the country level, (3) the treatment of missing item responses, (4) the impact of item selection in the PISA test, and (5) the impact of test position effects. In our multiverse analysis, it turned out that model uncertainty had almost the same impact on variability in the country means as sampling errors due to the sampling of students. Model uncertainty had an even larger impact than standard errors for country standard deviations. Overall, each of the five specification factors in the multiverse analysis had at least a moderate effect on either country means or standard deviations. In the discussion section, we critically evaluate the current practice of model specification decisions in LSA studies. It is argued that we would either prefer reporting the variability in model uncertainty or choosing a particular model specification that might provide the strategy that is most valid. It is emphasized that model fit should not play a role in selecting a scaling strategy for LSA applications.
ARET-IQA: An Aspect-Ratio-Embedded Transformer for Image Quality Assessment
Authors: Zhu Hancheng , Zhou Yong , Shao Zhiwen , Du Wen-Liang , Zhao Jiaqi , Yao Rui
Published: July 2022

Image quality assessment (IQA) aims to automatically evaluate image perceptual quality by simulating the human visual system, which is an important research topic in the field of image processing and computer vision. Although existing deep-learning-based IQA models have achieved significant success, these IQA models usually require input images with a fixed size, which varies the perceptual quality of images. To this end, this paper proposes an aspect-ratio-embedded Transformer-based image quality assessment method, which can implant the adaptive aspect ratios of input images into the multihead self-attention module of the Swin Transformer. In this way, the proposed IQA model can not only relieve the variety of perceptual quality caused by size changes in input images but also leverage more global content correlations to infer image perceptual quality. Furthermore, to comprehensively capture the impact of low-level and high-level features on image quality, the proposed IQA model combines the output features of multistage Transformer blocks for jointly inferring image quality. Experimental results on multiple IQA databases show that the proposed IQA method is superior to state-of-the-art methods for assessing image technical and aesthetic quality.
Cutting Simulation in Unity 3D Using Position Based Dynamics with Various Refinement Levels
Authors: Khan Lyudmila , Choi Yoo-Joo , Hong Min
Published: July 2022

Augmented and Virtual Reality-based surgical simulations have become some of the fastest-developing areas, due to the recent technological advances and changes, in surgical education. Cutting simulation is a crucial part of the virtual surgery simulation in which an incision operation is performed. It is a complex process that includes three main tasks: soft body simulation, collision detection and handling, and topological deformation of the soft body. In this paper, considering the content developer’s convenience, the deformable object simulation, using position-based dynamics (PBD), was applied in the Unity 3D environment. The proposed algorithm for fast collision detection and handling between the cutting tool and the deformable object uses a sweep surface. In case of incision, the algorithm updates the mesh topology by deleting intersected triangles, re-triangulation, and refinement. In the refinement part, the boundary edges threshold was used to match the resolution of new triangles to the existing mesh triangles. Additionally, current research is focused on triangle surface meshes, which help to reduce the computational costs of the topology modifications. It was found that the algorithm can successfully handle arbitrary cuts, keeping the framerate within interactive and, in some cases, in the real-time.
The 3D Position Estimation and Tracking of a Surface Vehicle Using a Mono-Camera and Machine Learning
Authors: Wang Ju , Choi Wookjin , Diaz Jose , Trott Curtrell
Published: July 2022

The ability to obtain the 3D position of target vehicles is essential to managing and coordinating a multi-robot operation. We investigate an ML-backed object localization and tracking system to estimate the target’s 3D position based on a mono-camera input. The passive vision-only technique provides a robust field awareness in challenging conditions such as GPS-denied or radio-silent environments. Our processing pipeline utilizes a YOLOv5 neural network as the back-end detection module and a temporal filtering technique to improve detection and tracking accuracy. The filtering process effectively removes false positive labels to improve tracking accuracy. We propose a piecewise projection model to predict the target 3D position from the estimated 2D bounding box. Our projection model utilizes the co-plane property of ground vehicles to calculate 2D–3D mapping. Experimental results show that the piecewise model is more accurate than existing methods when the training dataset is not evenly distributed in the sampling space. Our piecewise model outperforms the singular RANSAC-based and the 6DPose methods by 28% in location errors. A less than 10-m error is observed for most near-to-mid-range cases.
SVM-Based Fast CU Partition Decision Algorithm for VVC Intra Coding
Authors: Zhao Jinchao , Wu Aobo , Zhang Qiuwen
Published: July 2022

As a new coding standard, Versatile Video Coding (VVC) introduces the quad-tree plus multi-type tree (QTMT) partition structure, which significantly improves coding efficiency compared to High-Efficiency Video Coding (HEVC). The QTMT partition structure further enhances the flexibility of coding unit (CU) partitioning and improves the efficiency of VVC encoding high-resolution video, but introduces an unacceptable coding complexity at the same time. This paper proposes an SVM-based fast CU partition decision algorithm to reduce the coding complexity for VVC. First, the proportion of split modes with different CU sizes is analyzed to explore a method to effectively reduce coding complexity. Then, more reliable correlation features are selected based on the maximum ratio of the standard deviation (SD) and the edge point ratio (EPR) in sub-CUs. Finally, two SVM models are designed and trained using the selected features to provide guidance for deciding whether to divide and the direction of partition. The simulation results indicate that the proposed algorithm can save 54.05% coding time on average with 1.54% BDBR increase compared with VTM7.0.
Control of an Inductive Power Transfer System Using a Double Coil Structure
Authors: Prosen Nataša , Truntič Mitja , Domajnko Jure
Published: July 2022

This paper presents the design of the control of the system using a double DD coil structure. The double DD coil is a layered coil structure that consists of two single DD coils, rotated to each other by 90°. A large-signal and small-signal model of the proposed IPT system are designed for control synthesis. The small-signal model is derived from the large-signal using harmonic approximation and the extended describing functions (EDF). For the small-signal model, voltage and current control schemes were proposed for the purpose of wireless battery charging. The robustness of the control is tested on a small-scale IPT system using double DD coils and resistive load. The results are evaluated at different reference voltages, currents, loads and coupling coefficients.
Closing of Carbon Cycle by Waste Gasification for Circular Economy Implementation in Poland
Authors: Sobolewski Aleksander , Chmielniak Tomasz , Bigda Joanna , Billig Tomasz , Fryza Rafał , Popowicz Józef
Published: July 2022

Domestic coal and waste resources, which are valuable sources of carbon, can support efforts to transform a linear economy into a circular carbon economy. Their use, as an alternative to conventional, imported fossil resources (crude oil, natural gas) for chemical production, provides an opportunity for Poland to solve problems related to competitiveness, security of supply, and sustainable development in various industries. This is important for Poland because it can provide it with a long-term perspective of economic growth and development, taking into account global trends (e.g., the Paris Agreement) and EU legislation. The article presents a concept to support the transformation from linear toward a circular carbon economy under Polish conditions. The carried-out analyses showed that coal, RDF, and plastic waste fuels can be a valuable source of raw material for the development of the chemical industry in Poland. Due to the assumed availability of plastic waste and the loss of carbon in the production process, coal consumption is estimated at 10 million t/yr, both in the medium- and long-term. In case where coal consumption is reduced and an additional source of ‘green hydrogen’ is used, CO2 emissions could be reduced even by 98% by 2050. The presented results show the technical and economic feasibility of the proposed solution and could be the basis for development of the roadmap for transition of the linear to circular economy under Polish condition.
Mechanism Analysis of Delayed Water Inrush from Karst Collapse Column during Roadway Excavation Based on Seepage Transition Theory: A Case Study in PanEr Coal Mine
Authors: Liu Yu , Zhu Jingzhong , Liu Qimeng , Yuan Anying , He Shifang , Bai Yisheng
Published: July 2022

Water inrush disaster is one of the major disasters affecting the production safety of coal mines following roof caving, fire, gas outburst, and dust explosion disasters. It is urgent to reveal the water inrush mechanism and take effective measures to prevent the disasters. More than 80% of water inrush accidents occur around geological structural zones such as faults and karst collapse columns (KCCs). The water inrush events from KCCs caused huge economic losses and heavy casualties, and the water inrush process often shows certain hysteresis characteristics. Taking the water inrush disaster from a KCC during roadway excavation in PanEr Coal Mine of Huainan Mining Area as the case study, the delayed inrush mechanism of KCC was analyzed from the aspects of floor failure, KCC activation, seepage transition, and water inrush development characteristics. The results show that the rock mechanical properties and the excavation depth are the main factors affecting the floor failure characteristics. The seepage transformation from pore flow to fracture flow and pipeline flow, with the change in internal composition structure, is the internal mechanism of the delayed water inrush from KCC. The research is of great significance for the prediction and prevention of water inrush disasters from KCCs.