bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Controlling the Generator in a Series of Hybrid Electric Vehicles Using a Positive Position Feedback Controller
Authors: Alluhydan Khalid , Amer Yasser A. , EL-Sayed Ashraf Taha , EL-Sayed Marwa A.
Published: August 2024

This study investigates the effectiveness of positive position feedback (PPF) in reducing vibration amplitudes in an electric vehicle generator, specifically at super harmonic resonance (SHR) with 1:1 Internal Resonance (IR). Here is a breakdown. Simplified Model: The study uses a simplified nonlinear dynamic model (one degree of freedom, up to fifth-order nonlinear components) with external force, analyzed using the Multiple Time Scales Method (MTSM) with a first-order approximation. Focus on Resonance: The primary focus is on understanding the system’s behavior at SHR with 1:1 IR and how PPF can mitigate vibrations in this specific scenario. Frequency Response and Controller Influence: Frequency response functions are used to analyze the system’s stability with PPF, examining how different controller parameters affect the main system’s dynamics. Validation: Numerical solutions, obtained using the fourth-order Runge–Kutta method (‘RK-4’), are used to demonstrate and evaluate the system’s amplitude with and without PPF. The analytical and numerical results show strong agreement, validating the model’s accuracy. In essence, the research explores using PPF as a vibration control strategy in a specific resonance condition within an electric vehicle generator, using a combination of analytical and numerical methods for analysis and validation.
Optimizing Groundwater Exploration Strategies in Huarong, China with 2-Dimensional Resistivity Imaging
Authors: Rahim Osama Abdul , Chen Rujun , Liu Chunming , Ahmed Ijaz , Ullah Farid , Ahmad Jawad , Fahad Shah , Shah Shahid Ali , El-Kaliouby Hesham
Published: August 2024

The growing expansion of the economy and population has resulted in an increased inclination towards the utilization of groundwater resources. Conducting a geophysical survey is a widely employed method for subsurface mapping and the detection of groundwater. A geophysical study was conducted in Nanshan township, Huarong County, located in the Hunan province of the South-Central region of China. The investigation involved the utilization of a 2D electrical resistivity imaging technique employing forward and inverse pole–dipole electrode arrays. A total of six survey lines were established, each with an electrode distance from the nearest measuring point exceeding 800 m. The maximum current electrode separation was utilized in this setup. The spacing between the electrical resistivity sounding points was established at regular intervals. The findings from the exploration indicate the existence of multiple faults within the surveyed region. The study additionally identified two regions of structural failure, which occurred due to the convergence of faults oriented in different directions. This convergence led to the fracturing of rocks, an increase in water content, and a decrease in resistivity. The findings from the exploration were utilized in the formulation of five verification target boreholes. The results of this study offer significant insights that can inform future investigations into groundwater exploration endeavors within the region.
Enhancing Inter-Patient Performance for Arrhythmia Classification with Adversarial Learning Using Beat-Score Maps
Authors: Jeong Yeji , Lee Jaewon , Shin Miyoung
Published: August 2024

Research on computer-aided arrhythmia classification is actively conducted, but the limited generalization capacity constrains its applicability in practical clinical settings. One of the primary challenges in deploying such techniques in real-world scenarios is the inter-patient variability and the consequent performance degradation. In this study, we leverage our previous innovation, the n-beat-score map (n-BSM), to introduce an adversarial framework to mitigate the issue of poor performance in arrhythmia classification within the inter-patient paradigm. The n-BSM is a 2D representation of the ECG signal, capturing its constituent beat characteristics through beat-score vectors derived from a pre-trained beat classifier. We employ adversarial learning to eliminate patient-dependent features during the training of the beat classifier, thereby generating the patient-independent n-BSM (PI-BSM). This approach enables us to concentrate primarily on the learning characteristics associated with beat type rather than patient-specific features. Through a beat classifier pre-trained with adversarial learning, a series of beat-score vectors are generated for the beat segments that make up a given ECG signal. These vectors are then concatenated chronologically to form a PI-BSM. Utilizing PI-BSMs as the input, an arrhythmia classifier is trained to differentiate between distinct types of rhythms. This approach yields a 14.27% enhancement in the F1-score in the MIT-BIH arrhythmia database and a 4.97% improvement in cross-database evaluation using the Chapman–Shaoxing 12-lead ECG database.
3D Character Animation and Asset Generation Using Deep Learning
Authors: Lungu-Stan Vlad-Constantin , Mocanu Irina Georgiana
Published: August 2024

Besides video content, a significant part of entertainment is represented by computer games and animations such as cartoons. Creating such entertainment is based on two fundamental steps: asset generation and character animation. The main problem stems from its repetitive nature and the needed amounts of concentration and skill. The latest advances in deep learning and generative techniques have provided a set of powerful tools which can be used to alleviate these problems by facilitating the tasks of artists and engineers and providing a better workflow. In this work we explore practical solutions for facilitating and hastening the creative process: character animation and asset generation. In character animation, the task is to either move the joints of a subject manually or to correct the noisy data coming out of motion capture. The main difficulties of these tasks are their repetitive nature and the needed amounts of concentration and skill. For the animation case, we propose two decoder-only transformer based solutions, inspired by the current success of GPT. The first, AnimGPT, targets the original animation workflow by predicting the next pose of an animation based on a set of previous poses, while the second, DenoiseAnimGPT, tackles the motion capture case by predicting the clean current pose based on all previous poses and the current noisy pose. Both models obtained good performances on the CMU motion dataset, with the generated results being imperceptible to the untrained human eye. Quantitative evaluation was performed using mean absolute error between the ground truth motion vectors and the predicted motion vector. For both networks AnimGPT and DenoiseAnimGPT errors were 0.345, respectively 0.2513 (for 50 frames) that indicates better performances compared with other solutions. For asset generation, diffusion models were used. Using image generation and outpainting, we created a method that generates good backgrounds by combining the idea of text conditioned generation and text conditioned image editing. A time coherent algorithm that creates animated effects for characters was obtained.
Soil Solarization Efficiently Reduces Fungal Soilborne Pathogen Populations, Promotes Lettuce Plant Growth, and Affects the Soil Bacterial Community
Authors: Tziros George T. , Samaras Anastasios , Karaoglanidis George S.
Published: August 2024

Lettuce is the most cultivated leafy vegetable in Greece; however, due to the adopted intensive cropping system, its cultivation is susceptible to many soilborne pathogens that cause significant yield and quality losses. In the current study, the impact of various soil disinfestation methods such as solarization, chemical disinfestation, and application of a biofungicide were evaluated in a commercial field that has been repeatedly used for lettuce cultivation. The populations of soilborne pathogens Rhizoctonia solani, Pythium ultimum, Fusarium oxysporum, and Fusarium equiseti were measured via qPCR before and after the implementation of the specific disinfestation methods. Although all the tested methods significantly reduced the population of the four soilborne pathogens, soil solarization was the most effective one. In addition, solarization reduced the number of lettuce plants affected by the pathogens R. solani and F. equiseti, and at the same time, significantly influenced the growth of lettuce plants. Amplicon sequence analysis of 16S rRNA-encoding genes used to study the soil bacterial community structure showed that Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, and Actinobacteria were the predominant bacterial phyla in soil samples. In general, solarization had positive effects on Firmicutes and negative effects on Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria; soil fumigation with dazomet increased the relative abundance of Firmicutes and Proteobacteria and reduced the corresponding values of Actinobacteria; and biofungicide had no significant effects on the three predominant bacterial phyla. The bacterial community composition and structure varied after the application of the soil disinfestation treatments since they imposed changes in the α- and β-diversity levels. The results of this study are expected to contribute towards implementing the most effective control method against the most common soilborne pathogens in intensively cultivated fields, such as those cultivated with leafy vegetables.
The Prospect of Hepatic Decellularized Extracellular Matrix as a Bioink for Liver 3D Bioprinting
Authors: Shi Wen , Zhang Zhe , Wang Xiaohong
Published: August 2024

The incidence of liver diseases is high worldwide. Many factors can cause liver fibrosis, which in turn can lead to liver cirrhosis and even liver cancer. Due to the shortage of donor organs, immunosuppression, and other factors, only a few patients are able to undergo liver transplantation. Therefore, how to construct a bioartificial liver that can be transplanted has become a global research hotspot. With the rapid development of three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting in the field of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, researchers have tried to use various 3D bioprinting technologies to construct bioartificial livers in vitro. In terms of the choice of bioinks, liver decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM) has many advantages over other materials for cell-laden hydrogel in 3D bioprinting. This review mainly summarizes the acquisition of liver dECM and its application in liver 3D bioprinting as a bioink with respect to availability, printability, and biocompatibility in many aspects and puts forward the current challenges and prospects.
Digitalization of Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay with Graphene Field-Effect Transistors (G-ELISA) for Portable Ferritin Determination
Authors: Candia Melody L. , Piccinini Esteban , Azzaroni Omar , Marmisollé Waldemar A.
Published: August 2024

Herein, we present a novel approach to quantify ferritin based on the integration of an Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) protocol on a Graphene Field-Effect Transistor (gFET) for bioelectronic immunosensing. The G-ELISA strategy takes advantage of the gFET inherent capability of detecting pH changes for the amplification of ferritin detection using urease as a reporter enzyme, which catalyzes the hydrolysis of urea generating a local pH increment. A portable field-effect transistor reader and electrolyte-gated gFET arrangement are employed, enabling their operation in aqueous conditions at low potentials, which is crucial for effective biological sample detection. The graphene surface is functionalized with monoclonal anti-ferritin antibodies, along with an antifouling agent, to enhance the assay specificity and sensitivity. Markedly, G-ELISA exhibits outstanding sensing performance, reaching a lower limit of detection (LOD) and higher sensitivity in ferritin quantification than unamplified gFETs. Additionally, they offer rapid detection, capable of measuring ferritin concentrations in approximately 50 min. Because of the capacity of transistor miniaturization, our innovative G-ELISA approach holds promise for the portable bioelectronic detection of multiple biomarkers using a small amount of the sample, which would be a great advancement in point–of–care testing.
Characteristics of the Habitat and Population Densities of the Mexican Duck (Anas diazi) in the Plateau of Zacatecas, Mexico
Authors: Mercado-Reyes Marisa , Valtierra-Marín Héctor Emmanuel , Delgadillo-Ruiz Lucía , Valdéz-Romero Eduardo , Chávez-Ruvalcaba María Isabel , Chávez-Ruvalcaba Francisca , Ramírez-Hernández Leticia Adriana , Tavizón-García Patricio
Published: August 2024

The Mexican duck (Anas diazi) is an endemic species that has been categorized as threatened because of its practice of living in small populations and because of the condition of the wetlands in which it occurs. Therefore, the preference for wetlands by the species is influenced by the adjacent vegetation composition found in the Mexican Central Plateau in the state of Zacatecas. The inclination of the duck towards the wetlands in relation to the aquatic and adjacent vegetation structure was evaluated in the studied area. Seven wetlands were selected and distinguished by the presence of a population of the species. Vegetation was analyzed in three strata—tree layer, shrub layer and herb layer—and the population of the Mexican duck was calculated through direct counting in each wetland. The results determined a significantly larger number of individuals in artificial wetlands than in lakes. The wetlands’ adjacent vegetation is constituted by graminean and shrub species, with an aquatic vegetation cover. The non-parametric Mann–Whitney U test showed a significant difference between the counts of ducks and the physical structure of wetlands in the examined area. The data obtained indicate that the Mexican Duck occurs mainly in artificial wetlands with mainly graminean vegetation and aquatic plant cover; similar characteristics to those previously described for dabbling ducks.
Combined Effects of Nasal Ketamine and Trauma-Focused Psychotherapy in Treatment-Resistant Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: A Pilot Case Series
Authors: Rohde Judith , Hickmann Elena , Buchmann Marco , Kronenberg Golo , Vetter Stefan , Seifritz Erich , Kleim Birgit , Olbrich Sebastian
Published: August 2024

Objective: This pilot case series investigated the feasibility and efficacy of an eight-week therapy program, combining nasally administered ketamine (0.5 mg/kg) with trauma-focused psychotherapy, for individuals with chronic, treatment-resistant post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Method: Three patients with chronic, treatment-resistant PTSD underwent the eight-week therapy program. Clinical assessments included the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5 (CAPS-5) and the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD) at baseline, post-assessment, and follow-up assessment, along with additional measures assessing other relevant symptoms and side effects. Results: The results demonstrated clinically relevant reductions in PTSD symptoms, indicated by a change in the CAPS-5 score at post-assessment (M = −18.00; SE = 6.48) and follow-up assessment (M = −25.33, SE = 5.58). Additionally, depressive symptoms showed notable improvement, with changes in HAMD scores at post-assessment (M = −8.33, SE = 3.07) and follow-up assessment (M = −9.00, SE = 3.77). Positive effects were also observed in anxiety reduction, decreased dissociations, and improvements in emotion regulation and disturbances of self-organization. Conclusions: Despite potential variations in clinical profiles among the patients, the therapy program demonstrated positive outcomes for all participants. Nasally administered ketamine was well tolerated and resulted in immediate symptom reduction in tension, anxiety, and common PTSD symptoms. However, to validate these findings and compare treatment efficacy, future randomized controlled trials are warranted, especially in comparison with trauma-focused therapy alone.
Integration of Photovoltaic Systems for Energy Self-Sufficient Low-Rise Multi-Family Residential Buildings in Republic of Korea
Authors: Kwag Byung Chang , Kim Gil Tae , Hwang In Tae
Published: August 2024

Globally, building energy consumption has been rising, emphasizing the need to reduce energy usage in the building sector to lower national energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions. This study analyzes the applicability of photovoltaic (PV) systems in enhancing the energy self-sufficiency of small-scale, low-rise apartment buildings. The analysis is based on a case study using Republic of Korea’s Zero-Energy Building Certification System. By employing the ECO2 simulation program, this research investigates the impact of PV system capacity and efficiency on the energy self-sufficiency rate (ESSR). A series of parametric analyses were carried out for various combinations of building-attached photovoltaic (BAPV) roofs and building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) facades, considering the initial cost of BIPV facades. The simulations demonstrate that achieving the target ESSR requires a combination of BAPV roofs and BIPV facades, due to limited roof areas for PV systems. Additionally, this study reveals that BIPV facades can be cost-effective when their unit price, relative to BAPV roofs, is below 62%. Based on the ECO2 simulations, a linear regression formula is proposed to predict the ESSR for the case study building. Verification analysis shows that the proposed formula predicts an ESSR of 74.1%, closely aligned with the official ESSR of 76.9% certified by the Korean government. Although this study focuses on the case of a specific apartment building and lacks actual field data, it provides valuable insights for future applications of PV systems to enhance energy self-sufficiency in small-scale, low-rise apartment buildings in Republic of Korea.
Critical Insights into White and Yellow Light Marks on Various Asphalt Pavements: A Comparative Analysis
Authors: Elias Wafa , Abu Ahmad Moamar , Frid Vladimir
Published: August 2024

The traffic safety problem is of crucial importance worldwide, and one way to enhance it is by using high-quality road markings. While much attention has been paid to retroreflection standards and road marking visibility, less focus has been given to the effect of asphalt mixtures. Addressing this knowledge gap is essential for achieving comprehensive improvements in road safety. The present study investigates the impact of three asphalt mixtures on the retroreflectivity of road pavement surfaces. The findings indicate that white road markings exhibit varying retroreflectivity values depending on the asphalt mixture. Among the three types tested—the “Basalt” and “Zebra” dense, coarse-graded mixtures and the “Tama” stone mastic mixture—the “Basalt” mixture was most effective in enhancing road marking prominence, showing higher initial retroreflectivity values. Additionally, no effect of the asphalt mixture was observed concerning yellow road markings; data analysis revealed a significant spread in retroreflectivity values for white and yellow road markings across different asphalt mixtures and identified a relationship between these and the AADT (annual average daily traffic). The mean values of retroreflectivity follow a fractional power pattern, as indicated by the high regression coefficient of the cross-correlation line between the calculated and measured retroreflectivity values.
Spatial Syntactic Analysis and Revitalization Strategies for Rural Settlements in Ethnic Minority Areas: A Case Study of Shuanglang Town, China
Authors: Sun Yiwen , Zhan Huiwen , Gao Chao , Li Hang , Guo Xianhua
Published: August 2024

Understanding the spatial morphological characteristics and driving factors of rural settlements in ethnic minority areas is crucial for the conservation and tourism development of ethnic villages. Accordingly, this study employs Shuanglang Town, China as a case study, adopting an integrated approach that combines spatial syntax analysis, the optimal parameter geodetector model, and GIS spatial analysis techniques. This comprehensive methodology systematically investigates the spatial morphological features, differentiation characteristics, and influencing factors of ethnic villages. The findings reveal the logical lineage and formation mechanisms underlying the overall layout, street network, and public spaces of the villages. Specifically, the results demonstrate (1) a discernible gradation in spatial configurations, transitioning from compact “back mountain villages” in the northeast to more dispersed “seaside villages” in the southwest, with notable disparities in accessibility among different villages; (2) topography, water distribution, and water quality as the dominant factors shaping village spatial patterns; (3) the interactive and heterogeneous effects of multiple natural and anthropogenic factors, including topography, water resources, agricultural practices, and ethnic cultural traditions, significantly influencing the spatial morphology of villages; and (4) common principles governing the site selection of different ethnic village typologies, reflecting the villagers’ understanding and intelligent utilization of the natural environment. This study contributes to comprehending the spatial characteristics of rural settlements in ethnic minority areas and provides a theoretical and practical foundation for advancing analogous rural revitalization initiatives. The findings offer insights into the spatial logic and formation processes of ethnic villages, informing conservation efforts and sustainable tourism development strategies.
Role of Piezo1 in Terminal Density Reversal of Red Blood Cells
Authors: Dey Kuntal , van Cromvoirt Ankie M. , Hegemann Inga , Goede Jeroen S. , Bogdanova Anna
Published: August 2024

Density reversal of senescent red blood cells has been known for a long time, yet the identity of the candidate ion transporter(s) causing the senescent cells to swell is still elusive. While performing fractionation of RBCs from healthy individuals in Percoll density gradient and characterization of the separated fractions, we identified a subpopulation of cells in low-density fraction (1.02% ± 0.47) showing signs of senescence such as loss of membrane surface area associated with a reduction in band 3 protein abundance, and Phosphatidylserine (PS) exposure to the outer membrane. In addition, we found that these cells are overloaded with Na+ and Ca2+. Using a combination of blockers and activators of ion pumps and channels, we revealed reduced activity of Plasma membrane Ca2+ ATPase and an increase in Ca2+ and Na+ leaks through ion channels in senescent-like cells. Our data revealed that Ca2+ overload in these cells is a result of reduced PMCA activity and facilitated Ca2+ uptake via a hyperactive Piezo1 channel. However, we could not exclude the contribution of other Ca2+-permeable ion channels in this scenario. In addition, we found, as a universal mechanism, that an increase in intracellular Ca2+ reduced the initially high selectivity of Piezo1 channel for Ca2+ and allowed higher Na+ uptake, Na+ accumulation, and swelling.
Molecular Mechanisms of Autophagy Decline during Aging
Authors: Lim Shaun H. Y. , Hansen Malene , Kumsta Caroline
Published: August 2024

Macroautophagy (hereafter autophagy) is a cellular recycling process that degrades cytoplasmic components, such as protein aggregates and mitochondria, and is associated with longevity and health in multiple organisms. While mounting evidence supports that autophagy declines with age, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. Since autophagy is a complex, multistep process, orchestrated by more than 40 autophagy-related proteins with tissue-specific expression patterns and context-dependent regulation, it is challenging to determine how autophagy fails with age. In this review, we describe the individual steps of the autophagy process and summarize the age-dependent molecular changes reported to occur in specific steps of the pathway that could impact autophagy. Moreover, we describe how genetic manipulations of autophagy-related genes can affect lifespan and healthspan through studies in model organisms and age-related disease models. Understanding the age-related changes in each step of the autophagy process may prove useful in developing approaches to prevent autophagy decline and help combat a number of age-related diseases with dysregulated autophagy.
Apoptotic Receptors and CD107a Expression by NK Cells in an Interaction Model with Trophoblast Cells
Authors: Mikhailova Valentina A. , Sokolov Dmitry I. , Grebenkina Polina V. , Bazhenov Dmitry O. , Nikolaenkov Igor P. , Kogan Igor Yu. , Totolian Areg A.
Published: August 2024

Natural killer cells (NK cells) exert cytotoxicity towards target cells in several ways, including the expression of apoptosis-mediating ligands (TRAIL, FasL). In addition, NK cells themselves may be susceptible to apoptosis due to the expression of TRAIL receptors. These receptors include TRAIL-R1 (DR4), TRAIL-R2 (DR5), capable of inducing apoptosis, and TRAIL-R3 (DcR1), TRAIL-R4 (DcR2), the so-called “decoy receptors”, which lack an intracellular domain initiating activation of caspases. Of particular interest is the interaction of uterine NK cells with cells of fetal origin, trophoblasts, which are potential targets for natural killer cells to carry out cytotoxicity. The aim of this work was to evaluate the expression of proapoptotic receptors and their ligands as well as CD107a expression by NK cells in a model of interaction with trophoblast cells. To evaluate NK cells, we used cells of the NK-92 line; cells of the JEG-3 line were used as target cells. The cytokines IL-1β, IL-15, IL-18, TNFα, IL-10, TGFβ and conditioned media (CM) of the first and third trimester chorionic villi explants were used as inducers. We established that cytokines changed the expression of apoptotic receptors by NK cells: in the presence of TNFα, the amount and intensity of Fas expression increased, while in the presence of TGFβ, the amount and intensity of expression of the DR5 receptor decreased. Soluble chorionic villi factors alter the expression of TRAIL and FasL by NK-92 cells, which can reflect the suppression of the TRAIL-dependent mechanism of apoptosis in the first trimester and stimulating the Fas-dependent mechanism in the third trimester. In the presence of trophoblast cells, the expression of TRAIL and DcR1 by NK cells was reduced compared to intact cells, indicating an inhibitory effect of trophoblast cells on NK cell cytotoxicity. In the presence of chorionic villi CM and trophoblast cells, a reduced number of NK-92 cells expressing DR4 and DR5 was found. Therefore, soluble factors secreted by chorionic villi cells regulate the resistance of NK cells to death by binding TRAIL, likely maintaining their activity at a certain level in case of contact with trophoblast cells.
Crude Glycerol Increases Neutral Detergent Fiber Degradability and Modulates Rumen Fermentative Dynamics of Kikuyu Grass in Non-Lactating Holstein Cows Raised in Tropical Conditions
Authors: Valencia-Echavarria Diana Marcela , Granja-Salcedo Yury Tatiana , Noriega-Marquez Jorge Guillermo , Valderrama Luis Alfonso Giraldo , Vargas Julián Andrés Castillo , Berchielli Telma Teresinha
Published: August 2024

This study evaluated the effects of increasing levels of crude glycerol (CG) on the effective degradability of neutral detergent fiber (EDNDF) in Pennisetum clandestinum Hochst. Ex Chiov (kikuyu forage) and ruminal fermentation parameters in grazing dairy cows. Four non-lactating cannulated Holstein cows were used in a 4 × 4 Latin square design. Treatments consisted of CG infusion in the rumen at the following levels: 0 (G0), 500 (G500), 1000 (G1000), and 1500 (G1500) g/animal/day. Two kikuyu forages harvested (D) at 35 (DR35) and 45 (DR45) days of regrowth were incubated in the rumen for 72 h. The infusion of CG into the rumen increased (p < 0.05) EDNDF in both incubated forages. Total volatile fatty acids (VFAs) and pH values in the ruminal fluid were unaffected (p > 0.05) by the infusion of CG. However, propionate and butyrate molar proportions increased (p < 0.05) at the expense of acetate at all CG levels. In addition, the NH3-N levels decreased (p < 0.05) by approximately 20% with the infusion of 1000 and 1500 g of CG. In conclusion, supplementation with CG increases ruminal EDNDF, improving rumen fermentation dynamics in cows grazing kikuyu forage under tropical conditions. This greater EDNDF was achieved for both harvesting times.
Comparative Assessment of Risk and Turn-Around Time between Sequence-Based Typing and Next-Generation Sequencing for HLA Typing
Authors: Cha Jaehyun , Hur Mina , Kim Hanah , Yun Seunggyu , Nam Myunghyun , Cho Yunjung , Nam Minjeong
Published: August 2024

This study compared laboratory risk and turn-around time (TAT) between sequence-based typing (SBT) and next-generation sequencing (NGS) for human leukocyte antigen (HLA) typing. For risk assessment, we utilized the risk priority number (RPN) score based on failure mode and effect analysis (FMEA) and a risk acceptability matrix (RAM) according to the Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines (EP23-A). Total TAT was documented for the analytical phase, and hands-on time was defined as manual processes conducted by medical technicians. NGS showed a significantly higher total RPN score than SBT (1169 vs. 465). NGS indicated a higher mean RPN score, indicating elevated severity and detectability scores in comparison to SBT (RPN 23 vs. 12, p = 0.001; severity 5 vs. 3, p = 0.005; detectability 5 vs. 4, p < 0.001, respectively). NGS required a greater number of steps than SBT (44 vs. 25 steps), all of which were acceptable for the RAM. NGS showed a longer total TAT, total hands-on time, and hands-on time per step than SBT (26:47:20 vs. 12:32:06, 03:59:35 vs. 00:47:39, 00:05:13 vs. 00:01:54 hh:mm:ss, respectively). Transitioning from SBT to NGS for HLA typing involves increased risk and an extended TAT. This study underscored the importance of evaluating these factors to optimize laboratory efficiency in HLA typing.
Effectiveness of Apparent Diffusion Coefficient Values in Predicting Pathologic Subtypes and Grade in Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Cinar Hasibe Gokce , Memis Kemal Bugra , Oztepe Muhammet Firat , Fatihoglu Erdem , Aydin Sonay , Kantarci Mecit
Published: August 2024

Background and Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values in predicting pathologic subtypes and grade in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Materials and Methods: From January 2018 to March 2020, 48 surgically diagnosed NSCLC cases were included in this study. To obtain ADC values, ADC maps were constructed, and a region of interest was put on the tumor. The values were measured three times from different places of the lesion, and the mean value of these measurements was recorded. All MRI scans were evaluated by two radiologists in consensus. Results: A total of 14 cases were squamous cell cancer, 32 cases were adenocarcinoma, and 2 cases were large cell carcinoma. The mean ADC values of adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and large cell cancer were 1.51 ± 0.19 × 10−3 mm2/s, 1.32 ± 0.15 × 10−3 mm2/s, and 1.39 ± 0.25 × 10−3 mm2/s, respectively. There were 11 grade 1, 27 grade 2, and 10 grade 3 NSCLC cases. The mean ADC value was 1.44 ± 0.14 × 10−3 mm2/s in grade 1 tumors, 1.25 ± 0.10 × 10−3 mm2/s in grade 2 tumors, and 1.07 ± 0.15 × 10−3 mm2/s in grade 3 tumors. The cut-off value to discriminate grade 2 from grade 1 tumors was 1.31 ± 0.11 × 10−3 mm2/s (85% sensitivity, 75% specificity). The cut-off value to discriminate grade 3 from grade 2 tumors was 1.11 ± 0.15 × 10−3 mm2/s (87% sensitivity, 69% specificity). Conclusions: ADC values can accurately predict NSCLC histopathologic subtypes and tumor grade.
Aqueous Humor Cytokines in Idiopathic Epiretinal Membrane: Correlation with Disease Severity
Authors: Torresin Tommaso , Greggio Angelo , Frisina Rino , Motta Lorenzo , Gius Irene , Midena Giulia , Midena Edoardo
Published: August 2024

Background: To analyze the concentration of aqueous humor (AH) cytokines in eyes with idiopathic epiretinal membrane (iERM) and to investigate their potential correlation with disease severity. Methods: Retrospective cross-sectional case-control institutional study. A total of 16 eyes of 16 iERM patients and 14 eyes of 14 age-matched healthy controls were enrolled. AH samples were analyzed for various biomarkers using a glass-chip protein array. Cytokines associated with inflammation, fibrosis, angiogenesis, and glial signal transduction were quantified. Results: Significant differences in cytokine concentration were observed between the iERM group and controls, with 19 cytokines elevated in the iERM group (among them IL-6, IL-8, PDGF-AB, PDGF-BB, TGFB-1, TGFB-2, TGFB-3, VEGF A, VEGF C, VEGF D, p < 0,05, 95% confidence interval). Correlation analysis revealed associations between cytokine levels and iERM severity. Notably, stages 2, 3, and 4 of iERM demonstrated increased levels of various biomarkers. Conclusions: This study provides insights into the complex molecular interactions underlying iERM pathogenesis, describing a correlation between neuroinflammation and iERM severity.
Neuromarketing and Big Data Analysis of Banking Firms’ Website Interfaces and Performance
Authors: Giannakopoulos Nikolaos T. , Sakas Damianos P. , Migkos Stavros P.
Published: August 2024

In today’s competitive digital landscape, banking firms must leverage qualitative and quantitative analysis to enhance their website interfaces, ensuring they meet user needs and expectations. By combining detailed user feedback with data-driven insights, banks can create more intuitive and engaging online experiences, ultimately driving customer satisfaction and loyalty. Thus, the need for website customer behavior analysis to evaluate its interface is critical. This study focused on the five biggest banking firms and collected big data from their websites. Statistical analysis was followed to validate findings and ensure the reliability of the results. At the same time, agent-based modeling (ABM) and System Dynamics (SD) were utilized to simulate user behavior, thereby allowing for the prediction of responses to interface changes and the optimization of their website, and to obtain a comprehensive understanding of user behavior, thereby enabling banking firms to create more intuitive and user-friendly website interfaces. This interdisciplinary approach found that various website analytical metrics, such as organic and paid traffic costs, referral domains, and email sources, tend to impact banking firms’ purchase conversion, display ads, organic traffic, and bounce rate. Moreover, these insights into banking firms’ website visibility, combined with the behavioral data of the neuromarketing study, indicate specific areas for their website interface and performance improvement.
Explore Utilizing Network Traffic Distribution to Detect Stepping-Stone Intrusion
Authors: Yang Jianhua , Wang Lixin
Published: August 2024

In the past three decades, stepping-stone intrusion has become a professional and primary way used by intruders to launch their attacks since they can be protected behind a long TCP connection chain. Many different algorithms have been proposed to detect stepping-stone intrusion since 1995. But most algorithms cannot resist intruders’ session manipulation. In this paper, we propose a novel approach using the distribution of round-trip time (RTT) of network traffic to detect stepping-stone intrusion. This approach can resist intruders’ chaff-perturbation since the round-trip time of network packets can fairly be affected by chaffed packets. The ratio between the standard deviation of the RTTs between Send and Echo packets and the standard deviation of the RTTs between Send and Ack packets can be used to predict if a stepping-stone intrusion exists. The closer to 0 the ratio, the more suspicious a stepping-stone intrusion.
Predicting Question Popularity for Community Question Answering
Authors: Wu Yuehong , Wen Zhiwei , Liang Shangsong
Published: August 2024

In this paper, we study the problem of predicting popularities of questions in Community Question Answering (CQA). To address this problem, we propose a Posterior Attention Recurrent Point Process Model (PARPP) to take both the interaction of users and the Matthew effect into account for question popularity prediction. Our PARPP uses long short-term memory (LSTM) to encode the observed history and another LSTM network to record each step of decoding information. At each decoding step, it uses prior attention to capture answers that have a greater impact on the problem. When a new answer is observed, it uses Bayes’ rule to modify prior attention and obtain posterior attention. Then, the posterior attention is used to update the decoding status. We further introduce a convergence strategy to capture the Matthew effect in CQA. We conduct experiments on a Zhihu dataset crawled from a famous Chinese CQA forum. The experimental results show that our model outperforms several state-of-the-art methods. We further analyze the attention mechanism in our model. Our analysis shows that the proposed attention mechanism can better capture the impact of each answer on the future popularity of the question, which makes our model more interpretable. Our study would shed light on other similar studies such as answer ranking in response to the question and finding experts who have expertise on the topics of the questions.
A Numerical Simulation Study on the Combustion of Natural Gas Mixed with Hydrogen in a Partially Premixed Gas Water Heater
Authors: Li Siqi , Li Xiaoling , Jin Hanlin , Liu Yi , Wu Yuguo
Published: August 2024

To investigate the impact of blending natural gas with hydrogen on the combustion performance of partially premixed gas water heaters, a framelet-generated manifold (FGM) was employed for lower-order simulation of combustion processes. Coupled with the 30-step methane combustion mechanism simplified by GRI3.0, a three-dimensional computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation of the combustion chamber of a partially premixed gas water heater was carried out. A numerical simulation was performed to analyze the combustion process of a mixture including 0–40% natural gas and hydrogen in the combustion chamber of a partially premixed gas water heater. The results indicate that the appropriate hydrogen blending ratio for some premixed gas water heaters should be less than 20%. Furthermore, it was observed that after blending hydrogen, there was a significant increase in the combustion temperature of the water heater. Additionally, there was a slight increase in NOx.
Net Change in Energy Use from Ridehail Services in Five California Regions
Authors: Wenzel Thomas P.
Published: August 2024

Previously, we estimated the net change in energy use from ridehail services in Austin Texas. This estimate was based, in part, on assumptions regarding the number of rides involving two pooled parties and the distance drivers commuted into their service area to begin their driving day. The recent release of a year’s worth of Uber ridehail rides provided to California agencies, as well as recent surveys of driver commute behavior and the previous mode replaced by ridehail services, have enabled more accurate estimates of the net change in energy use from ridehail services statewide and in five regional markets. We find that the net reduction in energy use from more-efficient vehicles and pooled rides does not offset the additional increase in commute and between-ride deadhead kilometers and replacing more efficient modes with ridehail services. The net result is a 96% increase in statewide energy use (ranging from a 75% to a 123% increase in each region).
Ignorance Is Bliss: Anti-Queer Biopolitical Discourse as Conscious Unwillingness to Elaborate Complex Information
Authors: Abondio Paolo
Published: August 2024

Contemporary biopolitical discourse around fundamental rights and societal representations has increasingly weaponized moral-based attitudes and personal feelings, eschewing informed, factual opinions grounded in observation, data analysis, and scientific research. This trend is evident in the treatment of the queer community—used here as an umbrella term for non-cisgender, non-heterosexual individuals. Over recent years, the group has become the primary target of negationist critiques aimed at undermining the very existence of the community and challenging its rights. This article argues that the rise of depersonalized interactions and individualism, particularly through social media (where superficial and sensationalist content thrives, often at the expense of nuanced, data-driven discourse), the cult of the self and power (which prioritizes individual success, sidelining the collective struggles and rights of marginalized groups), and misinformation, is strategically employed by those in power and reverberated through the general public. These elements serve as a translucent veil, enabling the conscious choice to avoid engaging in structured, complex, and informed discussions about queer people’s rights and their existence. Consequently, the strategic deployment of these tactics, with the aim of shaping public opinion based on falsehoods and emotional appeals, undermines the capacity for informed dialog and perpetuates the marginalization of the queer community.
Metabolic Reprogramming of Astrocytes in Pathological Conditions: Implications for Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Calì Corrado , Cantando Iva , Veloz Castillo Maria Fernanda , Gonzalez Laurine , Bezzi Paola
Published: August 2024

Astrocytes play a pivotal role in maintaining brain energy homeostasis, supporting neuronal function through glycolysis and lipid metabolism. This review explores the metabolic intricacies of astrocytes in both physiological and pathological conditions, highlighting their adaptive plasticity and diverse functions. Under normal conditions, astrocytes modulate synaptic activity, recycle neurotransmitters, and maintain the blood–brain barrier, ensuring a balanced energy supply and protection against oxidative stress. However, in response to central nervous system pathologies such as neurotrauma, stroke, infections, and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Huntington’s disease, astrocytes undergo significant morphological, molecular, and metabolic changes. Reactive astrocytes upregulate glycolysis and fatty acid oxidation to meet increased energy demands, which can be protective in acute settings but may exacerbate chronic inflammation and disease progression. This review emphasizes the need for advanced molecular, genetic, and physiological tools to further understand astrocyte heterogeneity and their metabolic reprogramming in disease states.
Atopic Dermatitis and Autism Spectrum Disorders: Common Role of Environmental and Clinical Co-Factors in the Onset and Severity of Their Clinical Course
Authors: Casella Rossella , Miniello Andrea , Buta Federica , Yacoub Mona-Rita , Nettis Eustachio , Pioggia Giovanni , Gangemi Sebastiano
Published: August 2024

Increasing evidence suggests an association between atopic dermatitis, the most chronic inflammatory disease of the skin, and autism spectrum disorders, which are a group of neurodevelopmental diseases. Inflammation and immune dysregulation associated with genetic and environmental factors seem to characterize the pathophysiological mechanisms of both conditions. We conducted a literature review of the PubMed database aimed at identifying the clinical features and alleged risk factors that could be used in clinical practice to predict the onset of ASD and/or AD or worsen their prognosis in the context of comorbidities.
Antifungal Synergy: Mechanistic Insights into the R-1-R Peptide and Bidens pilosa Extract as Potent Therapeutics against Candida spp. through Proteomics
Authors: Vargas-Casanova Yerly , Bravo-Chaucanés Claudia Patricia , Fuentes Samuel de la Cámara , Martinez-Lopez Raquel , Monteoliva Lucía , Gil Concha , Rivera-Monroy Zuly Jenny , Costa Geison Modesti , Castañeda Javier Eduardo García , Parra-Giraldo Claudia Marcela
Published: August 2024

Previous reports have demonstrated that the peptide derived from LfcinB, R-1-R, exhibits anti-Candida activity, which is enhanced when combined with an extract from the Bidens pilosa plant. However, the mechanism of action remains unexplored. In this research, a proteomic study was carried out, followed by a bioinformatic analysis and biological assays in both the SC5314 strain and a fluconazole-resistant isolate of Candida albicans after incubation with R-1-R. The proteomic data revealed that treatment with R-1-R led to the up-regulation of most differentially expressed proteins compared to the controls in both strains. These proteins are primarily involved in membrane and cell wall biosynthesis, membrane transport, oxidative stress response, the mitochondrial respiratory chain, and DNA damage response. Additionally, proteomic analysis of the C. albicans parental strain SC5314 treated with R-1-R combined with an ethanolic extract of B. pilosa was performed. The differentially expressed proteins following this combined treatment were involved in similar functional processes as those treated with the R-1-R peptide alone but were mostly down-regulated (data are available through ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD053558). Biological assays validated the proteomic results, evidencing cell surface damage, reactive oxygen species generation, and decreased mitochondrial membrane potential. These findings provide insights into the complex antifungal mechanisms of the R-1-R peptide and its combination with the B. pilosa extract, potentially informing future studies on natural product derivatives.
Prolactin Drives Iron Release from Macrophages and Uptake in Mammary Cancer Cells through CD44
Authors: Farrell Reagan , Pascuzzi Nicholas , Chen Yi-Ling , Kim Mary , Torres Miguel , Gollahon Lauren , Chen Kuan-Hui Ethan
Published: August 2024

Iron is an essential element for human health. In humans, dysregulated iron homeostasis can result in a variety of disorders and the development of cancers. Enhanced uptake, redistribution, and retention of iron in cancer cells have been suggested as an “iron addiction” pattern in cancer cells. This increased iron in cancer cells positively correlates with rapid tumor growth and the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, which forms the basis for tumor metastasis. However, the source of iron and the mechanisms cancer cells adopt to actively acquire iron is not well understood. In the present study, we report, for the first time, that the peptide hormone, prolactin, exhibits a novel function in regulating iron distribution, on top of its well-known pro-lactating role. When stimulated by prolactin, breast cancer cells increase CD44, a surface receptor mediating the endocytosis of hyaluronate-bound iron, resulting in the accumulation of iron in cancer cells. In contrast, macrophages, when treated by prolactin, express more ferroportin, the only iron exporter in cells, giving rise to net iron output. Interestingly, when co-culturing macrophages with pre-stained labile iron pools and cancer cells without any iron staining, in an iron free condition, we demonstrate direct iron flow from macrophages to cancer cells. As macrophages are one of the major iron-storage cells and it is known that macrophages infiltrate tumors and facilitate their progression, our work therefore presents a novel regulatory role of prolactin to drive iron flow, which provides new information on fine-tuning immune responses in tumor microenvironment and could potentially benefit the development of novel therapeutics.