bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prognostic Value of the De Ritis Ratio for Overall Survival in Patients with Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer Undergoing [177Lu]Lu-PSMA-617 Radioligand Therapy
Authors: Gaal Sebastian , Huang Kai , Rogasch Julian M. M. , Jochens Hans V. , De Santis Maria , Erber Barbara , Amthauer Holger
Published: October 2023

The De Ritis ratio (=aspartate transaminase/alanine transaminase) has shown prognostic value in different cancer types. This is the first such analysis in prostate cancer patients undergoing radioligand therapy (RLT) with [177Lu]Lu-PSMA-617. This retrospective monocentric analysis included 91 patients with a median of 3 RLT cycles (range 1–6) and median cumulative activity of 17.3 GBq. Univariable Cox regression regarding overall survival (OS) included age, different types of previous treatment, metastatic patterns and different laboratory parameters before RLT. Based on multivariable Cox regression, a prognostic score was derived. Seventy-two patients (79%) died (median follow-up in survivors: 19.8 months). A higher number of previous chemotherapy lines, the presence of liver metastases, brain metastases, a higher tumor load on PSMA-PET, a higher prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level, lower red blood cell count, lower hemoglobin, higher neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio and higher De Ritis ratio were associated with shorter OS (each p < 0.05). In multivariable Cox, a higher number of chemotherapy lines (range, 0–2; p = 0.036), brain metastases (p < 0.001), higher PSA (p = 0.004) and higher De Ritis ratio before RLT (hazard ratio, 1.27 per unit increase; p = 0.023) remained significant. This prognostic score separated five groups with a significantly different median OS ranging from 4.9 to 28.1 months (log-rank test, p < 0.001). If validated independently, the De Ritis ratio could enhance multifactorial models for OS after RLT.
Exploring the Tumor-Suppressing Potential of PSCA in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Li Kexin , Huo Qingji , Minami Kazumasa , Tamari Keisuke , Ogawa Kazuhiko , Na Sungsoo , Fishel Melissa L. , Li Bai-Yan , Yokota Hiroki
Published: October 2023

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an aggressive cancer with low survival rates. We explored an innovative therapeutic approach by leveraging prognostic oncogenic markers. Instead of inhibiting these marker genes, we harnessed their tumor-modifying potential in the extracellular domain. Surprisingly, many of the proteins highly expressed in PDAC, which is linked to poor survival, exhibited tumor-suppressing qualities in the extracellular environment. For instance, prostate stem cell antigens (PSCA), associated with reduced survival, acted as tumor suppressors when introduced extracellularly. We performed in vitro assays to assess the proliferation and migration and evaluated the tumor-modifying capacity of extracellular factors from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in PDAC tissues. Molecular docking analysis, immunoprecipitation, Western blotting, and RNA interference were employed to study the regulatory mechanism. Extracellular PSCA recombinant protein notably curtailed the viability, motility, and transwell invasion of PDAC cells. Its anti-PDAC effects were partially mediated by Mesothelin (MSLN), another highly expressed tumor-associated antigen in PDAC. The anti-tumor effects of extracellular PSCA complemented those of chemotherapeutic agents like Irinotecan, 5-Fluorouracil, and Oxaliplatin. PSCA expression increased in a conditioned medium derived from PBMCs and T lymphocytes. This study unveils the paradoxical anti-PDAC potential of PSCA, hinting at the dual roles of oncoproteins like PSCA in PDAC suppression.
One-Pot Synthesis of Green-Emitting Nitrogen-Doped Carbon Dots from Xylose
Authors: Rodríguez-Carballo Gabriela , García-Sancho Cristina , Algarra Manuel , Castro Eulogio , Moreno-Tost Ramón
Published: October 2023

Carbon dots (CDs) are interesting carbon nanomaterials that exhibit great photoluminescent features, low cytotoxicity, and excellent water stability and solubility. For these reasons, many fields are starting to integrate their use for a variety of purposes. The catalytic performance of VOPO4 has been evaluated in the synthesis of nitrogen-doped carbon dots (N-CDs). The synthesis reaction was carried out at 180 °C using VOPO4 as a heterogeneous catalyst for 2 to 4 h of reaction time. After reaction, the N-CDs were purified using a novel method for the protection of the functional groups over the surfaces of the N-CDs. The morphological, superficial, and photoelectronic properties of the N-CDs were thoroughly studied by means of TEM, HRTEM, XPS, and photoluminescence measurements. The conversion of the carbon precursor was followed by HPLC. After three catalytic runs, the catalyst was still active while ensuring the quality of the N-CDs obtained. After the third cycle, the catalyst was regenerated, and it recovered its full activity. The obtained N-CDs showed a great degree of oxidized groups in their surfaces that translated into high photoluminescence when irradiated under different lasers. Due to the observed photoelectronic properties, they were then assayed in the photocatalytic degradation of methyl orange.
The Current Status of Allogenic Islet Cell Transplantation
Authors: Czarnecka Zofia , Dadheech Nidheesh , Razavy Haide , Pawlick Rena , Shapiro A. M. James
Published: October 2023

Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune destruction of pancreatic beta cells. The development of the Edmonton Protocol for islet transplantation in 2000 revolutionized T1D treatment and offered a glimpse at a cure for the disease. In 2022, the 20-year follow-up findings of islet cell transplantation demonstrated the long-term safety of islet cell transplantation despite chronic immunosuppression. The Edmonton Protocol, however, remains limited by two obstacles: scarce organ donor availability and risks associated with chronic immunosuppression. To overcome these challenges, the search has begun for an alternative cell source. In 2006, pluripotency genomic factors, coined “Yamanaka Factors,” were discovered, which reprogram mature somatic cells back to their embryonic, pluripotent form (iPSC). iPSCs can then be differentiated into specialized cell types, including islet cells. This discovery has opened a gateway to a personalized medicine approach to treating diabetes, circumventing the issues of donor supply and immunosuppression. In this review, we present a brief history of allogenic islet cell transplantation from the early days of pancreatic remnant transplantation to present work on encapsulating stem cell-derived cells. We review data on long-term outcomes and the ongoing challenges of allogenic islet cell and stem cell-derived islet cell transplant.
Opposing Roles for the α Isoform of the Catalytic Subunit of Protein Phosphatase 1 in Inside–Out and Outside–In Integrin Signaling in Murine Platelets
Authors: Khatlani Tanvir , Pradhan Subhashree , Langlois Kimberly , Subramanyam Deepika , Rumbaut Rolando E. , Vijayan K. Vinod
Published: October 2023

Platelet activation during hemostasis and thrombosis is facilitated by agonist-induced inside–out and integrin αIIbβ3-initiated outside–in signaling via protein kinases and phosphatases. Pharmacological inhibitor studies suggest that the serine/threonine protein phosphatase 1 (PP1) promotes platelet activation. However, since phosphatase inhibitors block all the isoforms of the catalytic subunit of PP1 (PP1c), the role of specific PP1c isoform in platelet signaling remains unclear. Here, we employed a platelet-specific PP1cα−/− mice to explore the contribution of a major PP1 isoform in platelet functions. Loss of PP1cα moderately decreased activation of integrin αIIbβ3, binding of soluble fibrinogen, and aggregation to low-dose thrombin, ADP, and collagen. In contrast, PP1cα−/− platelets displayed increased adhesion to immobilized fibrinogen, fibrin clot retraction, and thrombus formation on immobilized collagen. Mechanistically, post-fibrinogen engagement potentiated p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activation in PP1cα−/− platelets and the p38 inhibitor blocked the increased integrin-mediated outside–in signaling function. Tail bleeding time and light-dye injury-induced microvascular thrombosis in the cremaster venules and arterioles were not altered in PP1cα−/− mice. Thus, PP1cα displays pleiotropic signaling in platelets as it amplifies agonist-induced signaling and attenuates integrin-mediated signaling with no impact on hemostasis and thrombosis.
Automated Image Analysis of Transmission Electron Micrographs: Nanoscale Evaluation of Radiation-Induced DNA Damage in the Context of Chromatin
Authors: Abd Al-razaq Mutaz A. , Isermann Anna , Hecht Markus , Rübe Claudia E.
Published: October 2023

Background: Heavy ion irradiation (IR) with high-linear energy transfer (LET) is characterized by a unique depth dose distribution and increased biological effectiveness. Following high-LET IR, localized energy deposition along the particle trajectories induces clustered DNA lesions, leading to low electron density domains (LEDDs). To investigate the spatiotemporal dynamics of DNA repair and chromatin remodeling, we established the automated image analysis of transmission electron micrographs. Methods: Human fibroblasts were irradiated with high-LET carbon ions or low-LET photons. At 0.1 h, 0.5 h, 5 h, and 24 h post-IR, nanoparticle-labeled repair factors (53BP1, pKu70, pKu80, DNA-PKcs) were visualized using transmission electron microscopy in interphase nuclei to monitor the formation and repair of DNA damage in the chromatin ultrastructure. Using AI-based software tools, advanced image analysis techniques were established to assess the DNA damage pattern following low-LET versus high-LET IR. Results: Low-LET IR induced single DNA lesions throughout the nucleus, and most DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) were efficiently rejoined with no visible chromatin decondensation. High-LET IR induced clustered DNA damage concentrated along the particle trajectories, resulting in circumscribed LEDDs. Automated image analysis was used to determine the exact number of differently sized nanoparticles, their distance from one another, and their precise location within the micrographs (based on size, shape, and density). Chromatin densities were determined from grayscale features, and nanoparticles were automatically assigned to euchromatin or heterochromatin. High-LET IR-induced LEDDs were delineated using automated segmentation, and the spatial distribution of nanoparticles in relation to segmented LEDDs was determined. Conclusions: The results of our image analysis suggest that high-LET IR induces chromatin relaxation along particle trajectories, enabling the critical repair of successive DNA damage. Following exposure to different radiation qualities, automated image analysis of nanoparticle-labeled DNA repair proteins in the chromatin ultrastructure enables precise characterization of specific DNA damage patterns.
Assessing the Emissions Related to European Households’ Expenditures and Their Impact on Achieving Carbon Neutrality
Authors: Perissi Ilaria , Natalini Davide , Jones Aled
Published: October 2023

The European Green Deal comprises various policy initiatives with the goal of reaching carbon neutrality by 2050. The “Fit for 55 packages” include the Social Climate Fund, which aims to help, among others, vulnerable households and transport users meet the costs of the green energy transition. Thus, analyzing households’ expenditures and the associated carbon emissions is crucial to achieving a net-zero society. In the present study, we combine scenarios of households’ expenditures according to the Classification of Individual Consumption According to Purpose with economic decoupling scenarios to assess, for the first time, the European carbon budget allocation on a consumption basis. Expenditure projections based on socioeconomic scenarios were calculated using the Bayesian structural time series, and the associated emissions were estimated through the greenhouse gas intensity of the Gross Domestic Product. The model can be used to report the carbon budget of households and monitor the effectiveness of the measures funded by the Social Climate Fund. However, the emissions burden obtained by means of averaged greenhouse gas intensity of Gross Domestic Product results in a rough approximation of outcomes, and more accurate indicators should be developed across the member states.
Hybrid Ceramic Self-Healing Coatings for Corrosion Protection of Al Alloys in 3% NaCl Solution
Authors: Mori Stefano , Lamastra Francesca Romana , Montesperelli Giampiero
Published: October 2023

This work focuses on the development of sol–gel self-healing coatings for corrosion protection of Al alloys. The use of this method will help to reduce the costs associated with the coating as well as their environmental impact. Coatings were made of a titania matrix loaded with microparticles of poly(vinyl-alcohol) (PVA) containing cerium nitrate as an inhibitor. The PVA particles dissolve in water, so that the cerium nitrate deposits on the Al surface subjected to corrosion. The PVA microspheres were made via the emulsion method, and then loaded with cerium nitrate. The amount of cerium nitrate loaded in the microspheres was evaluated using UV–Vis. As a second step, the titania coating with embedded PVA microspheres loaded with cerium nitrate was deposited on an AA6082 substrate via a sol–gel route. The corrosion resistance of the coated samples was tested in NaCl solution. The coating microstructure, before and after the corrosion tests, was analysed with the use of an SEM (scanning electron microscope) and EDS (energy dispersive spectroscopy), while the corrosion resistance was investigated by EIS (electrochemical impedance spectroscopy). The results showed that the coatings were uniform and compact. They also showed the ability of the hybrid TiO2-based coating to provide protection for the AA6082 from corrosion. The coatings with an induced defect (scratch) were also analysed, and the EIS analysis of the coatings over time showed an increase in resistance, confirming the ability of the coating to heal itself.
Synthesis and Characterization of a Zirconium (Zr) Thin Film on Si(100) via Pulsed Laser Deposition
Authors: Khuzhakulov Zikrulloh , Kylychbekov Salizhan , Allamyradov Yaran , Majidov Inomjon , Khenner Mikhail , Terzic Jasminka , Gurgew Danielle , Er Ali Oguz
Published: October 2023

Zirconium (Zr) thin films were deposited on silicon using pulsed laser deposition (PLD) with two laser wavelengths (1064 nm and 532 nm) and varying substrate temperatures (25 °C, 300 °C, and 500 °C) and laser fluences (0.25, 0.5, 1.0 J/cm2). Results indicate that smoother films were obtained with 1064 nm and surface roughness increased with higher fluences. Optimal crystalline films were obtained at 300 °C. XRD, SEM, and AFM analysis revealed distinct patterns and peaks related to laser parameters. The growth mechanisms of a Zr film were computed based on a well-known continuum model of thin film growth. Our simulations agree with experimental observations. The study highlights crucial factors affecting Zr thin film deposition and provides insights for optimizing PLD parameters to achieve high-quality films.
Systematic Investigation into Evolution of Materials and Techniques Used in Lacquer Lian from the Warring States Period to the Yuan Dynasty
Authors: Wu Hao , Zhao Yang , Fang Beisong , Dong Jingren
Published: October 2023

In order to investigate the evolution of Chinese lacquering techniques, seven pieces of lacquer Lian from the Warring States Period to the Yuan Dynasty (475 BC–1368 AD) were analyzed by means of cross-section observation, Raman spectroscopy (RS), and thermally assisted hydrolysis and methylation pyrolysis coupled with gas chromatography/mass spectroscopy (Py-GC/MS). The results revealed that the lacquer Lian consisted of a three-layer structure, encompassing a pigment layer on the surface, an undercoat layer in the middle, and a ground layer. The red mineral pigment utilized was cinnabar, while a combination of Chinese lacquer and drying oil served as the primary organic material. Although lacquering techniques had undergone minimal changes from the Warring States Period to the Yuan Dynasty, the species of drying oil had changed, based on the fact that boiled tung oil was found in the ground layer of lacquerware from the Song Dynasty and the Yuan Dynasty. The present research provides direct evidence for the inheritance and development of Chinese lacquer technology.
Suppression of Stacking Order with Doping in 1T-TaS2−xSex
Authors: Philip Sharon S. , Louca Despina , Stone Matthew B. , Kolesnikov Alexander I.
Published: October 2023

In 1T-TaS2−xSex, the charge density wave (CDW) state features a star of David lattice that expands across layers as the system becomes commensurate upon cooling. The layers can also order along the c-axis, and different stacking orders have been proposed. Using neutron scattering on powder samples, we compared the stacking order previously observed in 1T-TaS2 when the system is doped with Se. While at low temperature, a 13c layer sequence stacking was observed in TaS2; this type of ordering was not evident with doping. Doping with Se results in a metallic state in which the Mott transition is suppressed, which may be linked to the absence of layer stacking.
Effects of the Exciton Fine Structure Splitting on the Entanglement-Based Quantum Key Distribution
Authors: Hernández-Borda Adrián Felipe , Rojas-Sepúlveda María Paula , Ramírez-Gómez Hanz Yecid
Published: October 2023

The reliable transmission of secure keys is one of the essential tasks to be efficiently accomplished by quantum information processing, and the use of entangled particles is a very important tool toward that goal. However, efficient production of maximally entangled states is still a challenge for further progress in quantum computing and quantum communication. In the search for optimal sources of entanglement, quantum dots have emerged as promising candidates, but the presence of dephasing in the generated entangled states raises questions about their real usefulness in large-scale quantum networks. In this work, we evaluate the effects of the exciton fine structure splitting, present in most quantum dot samples, on the fidelity of the BBM92 protocol for quantum key distribution. We find that the protocol’s performance is heavily impacted by such splitting and establish an upper limit for the product between the energy splitting and the exciton lifetime to have a dependable distributed key.
Occurrence and Regulatory Evaluation of Contaminants in Tattoo Inks
Authors: Fels Patricia , Lachenmeier Dirk W. , Hindelang Pascal , Walch Stephan G. , Gutsche Birgit
Published: October 2023

Tattooing has been an enduring form of body art since ancient times, but it carries inherent health risks, primarily due to the complex composition of tattoo inks. These inks consist of complex mixtures of various ingredients, including pigments, solvents, impurities and contaminants. This literature review aims to shed light on the organic and inorganic contaminants present in tattoo inks prior to the implementation of the Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) regulation in 2022. This review shows that the most common contaminants are polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), with a concentration range of 0.005–201 mg/kg, mainly detected in black tattoo inks, and primary aromatic amines (PAAs), with a concentration range of 0.5–1100 mg/kg, and heavy metals such as lead (0.01–14.0 mg/kg) and chromium(VI) (0.16–4.09 mg/kg) which are detected in almost all tattoo inks. When compared to the new concentration limits outlined in REACH, it is clear that a significant part of these contaminants would be considered non-compliant. However, the results of the review are limited due to the lack of quantitative data on contaminants in tattoo inks. In addition, the future implementation of REACH is expected to lead to changes in the composition of tattoo inks, which will affect the presence of contaminants.
Thermodynamic Properties and Equation of State for Tungsten
Authors: Kozyrev Nikolay V. , Gordeev Vladimir V.
Published: October 2023

A high-temperature equation of state for tungsten was constructed in this study using experimental data on its thermodynamic properties, thermal expansion, compressibility, and bulk compression modulus. The totality of experimental data were optimized by the temperature-dependent Tait equation over a pressure range from 0 up to 1000 kbar and over a temperature range from 20 K to the melting point. An extended Einstein model was used to describe the temperature dependence of thermodynamic and thermophysical parameters. A linear temperature dependence was embraced for the derivative of the isothermal bulk modulus. The resultant equation of state provides a good fit to the whole set of experimental data within measurement uncertainties associated with individual quantities.
Development of the 2.7 μm to 3 μm Erbium-Doped Laser
Authors: Liu Guanghui , Gu Di , Liu Jingliang , Fang Yan , Liu Jiaqi , Li Zhaoyang , Cui Kuofan , Chen Xinyu
Published: October 2023

The 3 μm wavelength band laser is located on the strong absorption peak of water and the atmospheric transmission window. The 3 μm laser with high single pulse energy is used in medical treatment for cutting soft tissues and bones during surgery. It is used as a pump source for optical parametric oscillators, and Fe lasers can realize 3~5 μm or 8~14 μm laser output, which has an irreplaceable role in certain areas (e.g., optoelectronic countermeasures, LIDAR, atmospheric monitoring, etc.). Commercial semiconductor-pumped Er lasers are capable of achieving 3 μm laser output of 600 mJ with the maturation of a 970 nm semiconductor laser. The conversion efficiency is significantly improved. However, the energy is lower than a flash-lamp-pumped Er laser. There are still serious crystal thermal effects and an inefficient conversion process. In this paper, the energy-level systems of 3 μm Er-doped lasers are discussed. A summary of the current state of research on Er lasers using different matrices and the commercialization of Er-doped lasers with wavelengths ranging from 2.7 μm to 3 μm is also provided. Several technical means are given to enhance laser performance. Furthermore, the development of Er-doped solid-state lasers with wavelengths between 2.7 and 3 μm is envisaged in the near future.
Side-Chain Labeling Strategy for Forming Self-Sorted Columnar Liquid Crystals from Binary Discotic Systems
Authors: Sakurai Tsuneaki , Kato Kenichi , Shimizu Masaki
Published: October 2023

The spontaneous formation of self-sorted columnar structures of electron-donating and accepting π-conjugated molecules is attractive for photoconducting and photovoltaic properties. However, the simple mixing of donor–acceptor discotic molecules usually results in the formation of mixed-stacked or alternating-stacked columns. As a new strategy for overcoming this problem, here, we report the “side-chain labeling” approach using binary discotic systems and realize the preferential formation of such self-sorted columnar structures in a thermodynamically stable phase. The demonstrated key strategy involves the use of hydrophobic and hydrophilic side chains. The prepared blend is composed of liquid crystalline phthalocyanine with branched alkyl chains (H2Pc) and perylenediimide (PDI) carrying alkyl chains at one side and triethyleneglycol (TEG) chains at the other side (PDIC12/TEG). To avoid the thermodynamically unfavorable contact among hydrophobic and hydrophilic chains, PDIC12/TEG self-assembles to stack up on top of each other and H2Pc as well, forming a homo-stacked pair of columns (self-sort). Importantly, H2Pc and PDIC12/TEG in the blend are macroscopically miscible and uniform, and mesoscopically segregated. The columnar liquid crystalline microdomains of H2Pc and PDIC12/TEG are homeotropically aligned in a glass sandwiched cell. The “labeling” strategy demonstrated here is potentially applicable to any binary discotic system and enables the preferential formation of self-sorted columnar structures.
Optimization of Layer Transfer and Photolithography for Device Integration of 2D-TMDC
Authors: Ghiami Amir , Sun Tianyishan , Fiadziushkin Hleb , Tang Songyao , Grundmann Annika , Heuken Michael , Kalisch Holger , Vescan Andrei
Published: October 2023

Extensive research into two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenides (2D-TMDCs) over the past decade has paved the way for the development of (opto)electronic devices with enhanced performance and novel capabilities. To realize devices based on 2D-TMDC layers, compatible and optimized technologies such as layer transfer and photolithography are required. Challenges arise due to the ultrathin, surface-only nature of 2D layers with weak van der Waals adhesion to their substrate. This might potentially compromise their integrity during transfer and photolithography processes, in which prolonged exposure at usually high temperature to reactive chemicals and strong solvents are conventionally used. In this paper, we show that employing a dry-transfer technique based on thermal release tape (TRT) as an alternative to wet processes based on KOH solution better preserves layer quality. In the succeeding device fabrication process, an optimized photolithography as a cost-effective and widely available method for device patterning is utilized. The introduced photolithography protocol presents a near-perfect yield and reproducibility. To validate our optimized techniques, we fabricated field-effect transistors (FETs) using 2D-MoS2 layers from metal–organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD), wet- and dry-transferred onto SiO2/Si substrates. Our findings mark a significant stride towards the efficient and industry-compatible utilization of 2D van der Waals materials in device fabrication.
Formation of an Unusual Pseudo-Square Planar-Induced Mercury(II) Dimeric Complex
Authors: Ju Huiyeong , Lee Dong Hee , Kim Seulgi , Kim Joon Rae , Kang Yunji , Lee Eunji , Park In-Hyeok
Published: October 2023

Due to the different crystallization methods, two Hg(II) complexes of a 19-membered NO2S2-macrocycle (L) and its oxidized ligand (HLox), exhibiting different stoichiometries, were prepared. First, mercury(II) iodide reacts with L to afford a dinuclear metallacycle complex [Hg2(L)2I4] (1) in which the mercury(II) exists outside the macrocyclic cavity. Meanwhile, the slow diffusion reaction gave an unusual pseudo-square planar-induced mercury(II) complex, which shows three separated parts with the formula [Hg2(HLox)I5]2[HgI2] (2). There are two complex cation units that are exo-coordinated, along with one unit consisting of a metal cluster anion. Surprisingly, L was oxidized in the disulfoxidized form (HLox) in this condition. NMR titration was used to monitor both the structural and binding characteristics of the complex formed between L and mercury(II) iodide in a solution.
The Possible Failed Pre-Linnaean Introduction in the Mediterranean Sea: An Archival Case Study of the Brown Mussel Perna perna
Authors: Faget Daniel , Boudouresque Charles François , Lejeusne Christophe
Published: October 2023

Most species arriving from a donor to a recipient area do not succeed in establishing long-lasting self-sustaining populations. However, successful introductions are far better documented than those that failed, especially those occurring before or near the advent of the Linnaean binomial nomenclature. We report here an introduction from the mid-18th century (possibly in 1750 or 1751) of an exotic mussel transported as fouling on ship hulls from the western coast of Morocco (Atlantic Ocean) to the port of Marseilles (Mediterranean Sea). The exotic mussel, which survived several years, has been identified as probably being the brown mussel, Perna perna, a species with warm-water affinities, which much later became invasive in several areas of the world ocean. The documents of the 18th and early 19th century, which mentioned the event, held ‘the curious’ and ‘amateurs’, who harvested the mussels, responsible for its extirpation. More realistically, it is hypothesised that the mussel population did not survive the return of severe cold weather conditions, after a few relatively mild decades, in the context of the Little Ice Age (LIA). These conclusions were deduced from historical data and are therefore open to discussion.
Development of Polymorphic Microsatellite Markers and Identification of Applications for Wild Walnut (Juglans regia L.) in Middle Asia
Authors: Li Xuerong , Wang Xiyong , Cui Zhijun , Shi Wei , Huang Junhua , Wang Jiancheng
Published: October 2023

The common walnut (Juglans regia L.), a species of significant economic and ecological importance, along with its variant, holds developmental value. Simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers are used as an effective method for material identification due to their co-dominant inheritance. In this work, a total of 357629 SSR loci were searched based on previously published walnut genome sequences, with a density of 662.28 (SSRs/Mb). The majority of all these loci were found to be single nucleotide A/T (58.49%), followed by the dinucleotide AT (19.48%). Based on the results of genome-wide SSR site design, 22 effective primer pairs were designed and screened to analyze the genetic diversity of 48 wild walnut samples from three countries. Each locus had an average of 5.17 effective alleles (Ne), with an average polymorphism information content (PIC) of 0.71, average heterozygosity (He) of 0.52, and average genetic differentiation index (Fst) of 0.09. The analysis of 48 wild walnut samples from three countries (Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and China) using the unweighted pairwise clustering method and arithmetic mean (UPGMA) along with principal coordinate analysis revealed the division of all samples into three groups. In summary, these novel SSR markers serve as a reference for the identification of wild walnut germplasm in Central Asia and for the development and utilization of wild walnut seed resources.
Comparative Study of 2D-Cine and 3D-wh Volumetry: Revealing Systemic Error of 2D-Cine Volumetry
Authors: Alkassar Muhnnad , Engelhardt Sophia , Abu-Tair Tariq , Ojeda Efren , Treffer Philipp C. , Weyand Michael , Rompel Oliver
Published: October 2023

This study investigates the crucial factors influencing the end-systolic and end-diastolic volumes in MRI volumetry and their direct effects on the derived functional parameters. Through the simultaneous acquisition of 2D-cine and 3D whole-heart slices in end-diastole and end-systole, we present a novel direct comparison of the volumetric measurements from both methods. A prospective study was conducted with 18 healthy participants. Both 2D-cine and 3D whole-heart sequences were obtained. Despite the differences in the creation of 3D volumes and trigger points, the impact on the LV volume was minimal (134.9 mL ± 16.9 mL vs. 136.6 mL ± 16.6 mL, p < 0.01 for end-diastole; 50.6 mL ± 11.0 mL vs. 51.6 mL ± 11.2 mL, p = 0.03 for end-systole). In our healthy patient cohort, a systematic underestimation of the end-systolic volume resulted in a significant overestimation of the SV (5.6 mL ± 2.6 mL, p < 0.01). The functional calculations from the 3D whole-heart method proved to be highly accurate and correlated well with function measurements from the phase-contrast sequences. Our study is the first to demonstrate the superiority of 3D whole-heart volumetry over 2D-cine volumetry and sheds light on the systematic error inherent in 2D-cine measurements.
Deep-Ocular: Improved Transfer Learning Architecture Using Self-Attention and Dense Layers for Recognition of Ocular Diseases
Authors: Abbas Qaisar , Albathan Mubarak , Altameem Abdullah , Almakki Riyad Saleh , Hussain Ayyaz
Published: October 2023

It is difficult for clinicians or less-experienced ophthalmologists to detect early eye-related diseases. By hand, eye disease diagnosis is labor-intensive, prone to mistakes, and challenging because of the variety of ocular diseases such as glaucoma (GA), diabetic retinopathy (DR), cataract (CT), and normal eye-related diseases (NL). An automated ocular disease detection system with computer-aided diagnosis (CAD) tools is required to recognize eye-related diseases. Nowadays, deep learning (DL) algorithms enhance the classification results of retinograph images. To address these issues, we developed an intelligent detection system based on retinal fundus images. To create this system, we used ODIR and RFMiD datasets, which included various retinographics of distinct classes of the fundus, using cutting-edge image classification algorithms like ensemble-based transfer learning. In this paper, we suggest a three-step hybrid ensemble model that combines a classifier, a feature extractor, and a feature selector. The original image features are first extracted using a pre-trained AlexNet model with an enhanced structure. The improved AlexNet (iAlexNet) architecture with attention and dense layers offers enhanced feature extraction, task adaptability, interpretability, and potential accuracy benefits compared to other transfer learning architectures, making it particularly suited for tasks like retinograph classification. The extracted features are then selected using the ReliefF method, and then the most crucial elements are chosen to minimize the feature dimension. Finally, an XgBoost classifier offers classification outcomes based on the desired features. These classifications represent different ocular illnesses. We utilized data augmentation techniques to control class imbalance issues. The deep-ocular model, based mainly on the AlexNet-ReliefF-XgBoost model, achieves an accuracy of 95.13%. The results indicate the proposed ensemble model can assist dermatologists in making early decisions for the diagnosing and screening of eye-related diseases.
Molecular Analysis of Biliary Tract Cancers with the Custom 3′ RACE-Based NGS Panel
Authors: Mitiushkina Natalia V. , Tiurin Vladislav I. , Anuskina Aleksandra A. , Bordovskaya Natalia A. , Shestakova Anna D. , Martianov Aleksandr S. , Bubnov Mikhail G. , Shishkina Anna S. , Semina Maria V. , Romanko Aleksandr A. , Kuligina Ekaterina S. , Imyanitov Evgeny N.
Published: October 2023

The technique 3’ rapid amplification of cDNA ends (3′ RACE) allows for detection of translocations with unknown gene partners located at the 3′ end of the chimeric transcript. We composed a 3′ RACE-based RNA sequencing panel for the analysis of FGFR1–4 gene rearrangements, detection of activating mutations located within FGFR1–4, IDH1/2, ERBB2 (HER2), KRAS, NRAS, BRAF, and PIK3CA genes, and measurement of the expression of ERBB2, PD-L1, and FGFR1–4 transcripts. This NGS panel was utilized for the molecular profiling of 168 biliary tract carcinomas (BTCs), including 83 intrahepatic cholangiocarcinomas (iCCAs), 44 extrahepatic cholangiocarcinomas (eCCAs), and 41 gallbladder adenocarcinomas (GBAs). The NGS failure rate was 3/168 (1.8%). iCCAs, but not other categories of BTCs, were characterized by frequent FGFR2 alterations (17/82, 20.7%) and IDH1/2 mutations (23/82, 28%). Other potentially druggable events included ERBB2 amplifications or mutations (7/165, 4.2% of all successfully analyzed BTCs) and BRAF p.V600E mutations (3/165, 1.8%). In addition to NGS, we analyzed microsatellite instability (MSI) using the standard five markers and revealed this event in 3/158 (1.9%) BTCs. There were no instances of ALK, ROS1, RET, and NTRK1–3 gene rearrangements or MET exon 14 skipping mutations. Parallel analysis of 47 iCCA samples with the Illumina TruSight Tumor 170 kit confirmed good performance of our NGS panel. In conclusion, targeted RNA sequencing coupled with the 3′ RACE technology is an efficient tool for the molecular diagnostics of BTCs.
Advances in Technologies in Crime Scene Investigation
Authors: Esposito Massimiliano , Sessa Francesco , Cocimano Giuseppe , Zuccarello Pietro , Roccuzzo Salvatore , Salerno Monica
Published: October 2023

Crime scene investigation (CSI) is the complex act of reconstructing the dynamics that led to a crime and the circumstances of its perpetration. Crystallizing the CSI is a difficult task for the forensic pathologist; however, it is often requested by the public prosecutor and many judicial cases remain unsolved precisely for this reason. Recent years have seen an improvement in the ability of 3D scanning technology to obtain dense surface scans of large-scale spaces, for surveying, engineering, archaeology, and medical purposes such as forensics. The applications of this new technology are growing every day: forensic measurement of wounds in clinical reports, for example, reconstruction of traffic accidents, bullet trajectory studies in gunshot wounds, and 3D bloodstain pattern analysis. A retrospective analysis was conducted across all crime scene investigations performed by the forensic staff of the Department of Forensic Pathology of the University of Catania from January 2019 to June 2022. Inclusion criteria were the use of a laser scanner (LS), the use of a camera, a full investigative scene, and collection of circumstantial data thanks to the help of the judicial police. Cases in which the LS was not used were excluded. Out of 200 CSIs, 5 were included in the present study. In case number 1, the use of the LS made it possible to create a complete scale plan of the crime scene in a few hours, allowing a ship to be quickly returned to the judicial police officer. In case 2 (fall from a height), the LS clarified the suicidal intent of the deceased. In case number 3 it was possible to reconstruct a crime scene after many years. In case 4, the LS provided a great contribution in making a differential diagnosis between suicide and homicide. In case 5, the LS was fundamental for the COVID team in planning the study of COVID-19 pathways and areas within a hospital with the aim of reduction of nosocomial transmission. In conclusion, the use of the LS allowed the forensic staff to crystallize the investigative scene, making it a useful tool.
OTFS-IM Modulation Based on Four-Dimensional Spherical Code in Air-to-Ground Communication
Authors: Gu Peng , Guo Lin , Jin Shen , Liu Guangzu , Zou Jun
Published: October 2023

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have been widely utilized for their various advantages. However, UAVs exhibit high mobility and energy storage restrictions in some applications, which can compromise the quality and reliability of communication links. This is a challenge that future aircraft and low-orbit aircraft will inevitably encounter. To effectively address the issue of dynamic Doppler spread in air-to-ground communication, this paper creatively introduces four-dimensional spherical code modulation into the orthogonal time–frequency space with an index modulation (OTFS-IM) system. The fundamental concept of the four-dimensional spherical code is elaborated in detail. Multiple resource symbols can be jointly used to increase the modulation dimension, thereby achieving a larger minimum Euclidean distance between constellation points. Furthermore, detailed analysis is conducted on the bit error rate (BER) and the peak-to-average-power ratio (PAPR) expressions of the proposed system to evaluate its performance and provide theoretical guidance. The proposed scheme not only adapts well to high-speed scenarios but also achieves better power consumption efficiency. The simulation results demonstrate that our proposed scheme outperforms conventional methods. Its robustness and generalization ability are also validated.
Simulation and Research of Methane Premixed Combustion Characteristics Based on Constant Volume Combustion Chamber with Different Ignition Modes
Authors: Wang Yue , Zhang Xin , Fan Xinmiao , Li Yanfei
Published: October 2023

Dual spark plug ignition can accelerate the burning velocity of nature gas and improve the engine performance. However, the mechanism between the two flames and the disturbance characteristics of flame to flow field during the combustion process under different ignition strategies are still unclear. In order to reduce the interference of other external factors, this paper is based on the CFD software CONVERGE 3.0, using G equations combined with SAGE detailed chemical reaction mechanism, the combustion model is constructed based on the closed constant volume combustion chamber. The accuracy of the model was verified using experimental data. The methane–air premixed combustion process under different ignition strategies (single spark ignition, dual spark synchronous ignition and dual spark asynchronous ignition) was simulated using this model. The results show that the flame propagation speeds under the dual spark ignition plan are all smaller than that of single spark ignition due to the inhibition of the opposite side flame. However, it still has obvious fast combustion characteristics, shortens the combustion duration and improves the heat release rate. The flame stability is optimum under synchronous ignition with the pressure offsetting effect, and with the increase in the ignition interval, the flame stability decreases, and the disturbance of the flow field gradually increases. There is little effect of ignition position on combustion pressure and heat release rate. Compared with single spark ignition and dual spark asynchronous ignition, dual spark synchronous ignition has better combustion characteristics. It can improve thermal efficiency while ensuring flame stability. This is a key technology for improving the natural gas engine performance.
Screening l-Lysine-Overproducing Escherichia coli Using Artificial Rare Codons and a Rare Codon-Rich Marker
Authors: Liu Hui , Yang Cuiping , Yang Lu , Wang Ruiming , Li Piwu , Du Bowen , Li Nan , Wang Junqing
Published: October 2023

l-Lysine, an essential amino acid for humans and mammals, is widely used in the food, feed, medicine, and cosmetics industries. In this study, a lysine over-producing Escherichia coli mutant was isolated using a fluorescence-based screen and an E. coli strain lacking five of the six L-lysine tRNA-UUU genes. Firstly, an l-lysine codon-rich protein was fused with a green fluorescent protein (all AAG codons were replaced with AAA), yielding a rare codon-rich screening marker positively correlated with l-lysine content. After association and room temperature plasma (ARTP) mutagenesis and induced fluorescent protein expression culture, mutant strains with strong fluorescence were sorted using flow cytometry. The fermentation performance of the high-yielding l-lysine strains were evaluated, which resulted in 16 of the 29 mutant strains showing increased L-lysine yields compared with those of the wild-type strains and a screening efficiency of up to 55.2%. Following a 48 h fermentation, the production of l-lysine (14.8 g/L) and biomass by E. coli QD01ΔtRNA L2 were 12.1 and 4.5% higher than those of the wild-type strain. The screening strategy for high-yielding strains based on the artificial rare cryptosystem established in this study will provide an efficient, accurate, and simple method for screening other amino-acid-producing microorganisms.
Oceania’s 5G Multi-Tier Fixed Wireless Access Link’s Long-Term Resilience and Feasibility Analysis
Authors: Singh Satyanand , Rosak-Szyrocka Joanna , Drotár István , Fernando Xavier
Published: October 2023

Information and communications technologies play a vital role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and bridging the gap between developed and developing countries. However, various socioeconomic factors adversely impact the deployment of digital infrastructure, such as 5G networks, in the countries of Oceania. The high-speed broadband fifth-generation cellular network (5G) will improve the quality of service for growing mobile users and the massive Internet of Things (IoT). It will also provide ultra-low-latency services required by smart city applications. This study investigates the planning process for a 5G radio access network incorporating sub-6 GHz macro-remote radio units (MRRUs) and mmWave micro-remote radio units (mRRUs). We carefully define an optimization problem for 5G network planning, considering the characteristics of urban macro-cells (UMa) and urban micro-cells (UMi) with appropriate channel models and link budgets. We determine the minimum number of MRRUs and mRRUs that can be installed in each area while meeting coverage and user traffic requirements. This will ensure adequate broadband low-latency network coverage with micro-cells instead of macro-cells. This study evaluates the technical feasibility analysis of combining terrestrial and airborne networks to provide 5G coverage in Oceania, with a special emphasis on Fiji.
Eurotium cristatum from Fu Brick Tea Promotes Adipose Thermogenesis by Boosting Colonic Akkermansia muciniphila in High-Fat-Fed Obese Mice
Authors: Wang Yu , Li Ting , Yang Chengcheng , Wu Yingmei , Liu Yueyue , Yang Xingbin
Published: October 2023

This study investigated the potential fat-thermogenic effects of Eurotium cristatum, and elucidated the underlying mechanisms. The 12-week administration of E. cristatum in HFD-fed obese mice reduced body weight and improved glucolipid metabolism disorders. The administration of E. cristatum also efficiently promoted thermogenesis by increasing the expression of UCP1 and PRDM16 in both interscapular brown adipose tissue (iBAT) and inguinal white adipose tissue (iWAT) of HFD-fed mice. Furthermore, E. cristatum shaped the gut microbiome by increasing the abundance of Parabacteroides and Akkermansia muciniphila, and also elevated the levels of cecal short-chain fatty acids, particularly propionate and acetate. Of note, A. muciniphila was highly negatively correlated with body weight gain (r = −0.801, p < 0.05) and the iWAT index (r = −0.977, p < 0.01), suggesting that A. muciniphila may play an important role in the thermogenic mobilization induced by E. cristatum. Continuous supplementation with A. muciniphila suppressed adipose accumulation, improved glucolipid metabolism, and enhanced the thermogenic activity of iWAT and iBAT. Collectively, our results propose that boosted A. muciniphila acts as a key microbe in tea-derived probiotic E. cristatum-mediated fat-thermogenic and anti-obesity effects.
Assessing Food Preferences and Neophobias among Spanish Adolescents from Castilla–La Mancha
Authors: del Campo Carmen , Bouzas Cristina , Monserrat-Mesquida Margalida , Tur Josep A.
Published: October 2023

Food neophobia is a reaction of dislike or fear of food, which may be due to a wide variety of factors (taste, texture, exposure at an early age, genetics, or diversity in feeding practices and food consumption). The aim of this study was to assess the preferences for tastes and foods and food neophobias among Spanish adolescents and to compare the differences between boys and girls. This was a cross-sectional observational study on 11–18-year-old healthy adolescents (n = 600; 50% female) recruited in the Castilla–La Mancha region (central Spain). Information on taste preferences, food neophobias, anthropometric measurements, and sociodemographic data was recorded. The highest taste preference was found for sweet, salty, and umami. Most adolescents usually did not try new foods outside the home, nor did they like to try foods from other countries. More than half of them also acknowledged being selective eaters or were very particular about the foods they ate. There were no significant associations between taste preference and neophobias with obesity, waist-to-height ratio (WtHR), sleep, and smoking. Adolescents showed a high unwillingness to change food habits, and most of the food neophobias found in the current study were related to new, novel, or previously unknown foods. Spanish adolescents from central Spain (Castilla–La Mancha region) showed a preference for sweet, salty, and umami tastes of foods, as well as food neophobia towards foods that they do not regularly consume, mainly those with a bitter taste. Gender and body weight showed little influence, and age had a moderate influence on food neophobias. Familiarity with foods, as well as educational activities, are suggested as useful to decrease food neophobias among adolescents.