bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Respiratory System of the Arctocephalus australis in Comparison to the Dog as a Land-Carnivore: Are There Adaptations to Marine Life?
Authors: Molpeceres-Diego Ignacio , Martín-Orti Rosario , Loureiro Juan-Pablo , Tostado-Marcos Carlos , Tendillo-Domínguez Enrique , Santos-Álvarez Inmaculada , Pérez-Lloret Pilar , González-Soriano Juncal
Published: January 2023

Marine mammals are divided into three groups, with similar adaptations resulting from their aquatic lifestyle: sirenians, pinnipeds, and cetaceans. The present work focused on the South American fur seal, or Arctocephalus australis, a carnivore included in the pinnipeds group. We assessed whether the anatomical features of the Arctocephalus australis’ respiratory system are comparable to those of other land-carnivores or whether these individuals show anatomical adaptations related to their ability to dive or their breath-holding capacities. We studied 11 cadavers of Arctocephalus australis, which included adult (n = 2) and juvenile (n = 9) individuals, by anatomically dissecting their isolated entire respiratory system. Although it is generally similar to that in land-carnivores, we demonstrated that the Arctocephalus australis’s respiratory apparatus shows several specific characteristics. Therefore, our results are of great importance for clinical diagnostic and wildlife conservation purposes.
Improving the Wet Refractivity Estimation Using the Extremely Learning Machine (ELM) Technique
Authors: Forootan Ehsan , Dehvari Masood , Farzaneh Saeed , Karimi Sedigheh
Published: January 2023

Constructing accurate models that provide information about water vapor content in the troposphere improves the reliability of numerical weather forecasts and the position accuracy of low-cost Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receivers. However, developing models with high spatial-temporal resolution demands compact observational datasets in the regions of interest. Empirical models, such as the Global Pressure and Temperature 3 (GPT3w), have been constructed based on the monthly averaged outputs of numerical weather models. These models are based on the assimilation of existing measurements to provide estimations of atmospheric parameters. Therefore, their accuracy may be reduced over regions with a low resolution of radiosonde or continuous GNSS stations. By emerging and increasing the Low-Earth-Orbiting (LEO) satellites that measure atmospheric parameter profiles using the Radio Occultation (RO) technique, new opportunities have appeared to acquire high-resolution atmospheric observations at different altitudes. This study aims to apply these RO observations to improve the accuracy of the GPT3w model over Iran, which is sparse in terms of long-term GNSS and radiosonde measurements. The temperature, pressure, and water vapor pressure parameters from the GPT3w model have been used as the input layers of the Extremely Learning Machine (ELM) technique. The wet refractivity indices from the RO technique are considered target parameters in the output layer to train the ELM. The RO observations of 2007–2020 are applied for training, and those of 2020–2022 for evaluating the performance of the developed ELM. Our numerical results indicate that the developed ELM decreases the Root-Mean-Square Error (RMSE) values of the wet refractivity indices by about 17 percent, compared to the original GPT3w RMSE values. Additionally, the wet refractivity indices from ELM have revealed correlation coefficients of about 0.64, which is about 1.9 times those related to the original GPT3w model. The performance of ELM has also been examined by comparison with the data of six located radiosonde stations covering the year 2020. This comparison shows an improvement of about 14 percent in the average RMSE values of the estimated wet refractivity indices.
Assessment of Climatic Impact on Vegetation Spring Phenology in Northern China
Authors: Li Zhaozhe , Wu Yongping , Wang Ranghui , Liu Bo , Qian Zhonghua , Li Cheng
Published: January 2023

Spring phenology is often considered the start of season (SOS) for vegetation, which can affect ecosystem photosynthesis, respiration, and evapotranspiration. However, the long-run variation of SOS remains unclear at the regional scale. In this research, the long-term variation of SOS in northern China was explored by using the updated normalized difference vegetation index and monthly climatic data during 1982–2014. Furthermore, the relative importance of climatic factors on SOS was analyzed through partial correlation and multivariate regression methods. The main results were as follows: (1) average SOS largely ranged between day 120 and 165 of the year and varied widely for different vegetation types; (2) SOS during 1982–2014 showed an advancing trend, but it appeared to be reversed after 1998; (3) preseason minimum temperature was a dominant factor controlling SOS in most pixels in northern China, followed by maximum temperature (Tmx). However, impacts of radiation and precipitation on the trend of SOS primarily depended on vegetation types; (4) impacts of climatic factors on SOS declined in the period after 1998, especially for Tmx. These findings provide important support for modeling vegetation phenology and growth in northern China.
Aerobiological Monitoring in an Indoor Occupational Setting Using a Real-Time Bioaerosol Sampler
Authors: Lancia Andrea , Gioffrè Angela , Di Rita Federico , Magri Donatella , D’Ovidio Maria Concetta
Published: January 2023

Aerobiological monitoring is a crucial tool for human and environmental health. Real-time bioaerosol samplers are major innovative techniques for aerobiological monitoring. In this study, we evaluate the use of a real-time bioaerosol sampler to monitor the exposure in an indoor occupational environment. We used a WIBS-NEO sampler, continuously operating during working and non-working days. The fluorescent particles were 16.5% of the total, identifiable as bioparticles. There was a significant difference between working and non-working days regarding bioparticles (+19% on average), especially in the morning (+91% on average), the part of the day mostly associated to worker presence. In working days, there is a difference between working and non-working-hours, reinforced by a strong correlation between the time of occupation of the room and the number of particles identified as pollen and fungal spores (R2 = 0.741, p < 0.01). The bacterial component does not seem to be influenced by the presence of workers; however, it follows the general distribution of bioparticles. Our results indicate the reliability of the real-time instrument for the monitoring of different biocomponents, and the role of workers in the distribution of some types of bioaerosol particles, like pollen and fungal spores, which can have several health impacts, such as allergies.
Nitrogen, Phosphorus Co-Doped Graphite Felt as Highly Efficient Electrode for VO2+/VO2+ Reaction
Authors: Jialin Zhang , Yiyang Liu , Shanfu Lu , Yan Xiang
Published: January 2023

All-vanadium redox flow batteries hold promise for the next-generation grid-level energy storage technology in the future. However, the low electrocatalytic activity of initial graphite felt constrains the development of VRFBs. Furthermore, the positive VO2+/VO2+ reaction involves complex multistep processes and more sluggish kinetics than negative V2+/V3+ reaction. Therefore, enhancing the kinetics of positive reaction is especially important. Heteroatom doping is one of the effective strategies for preparing carbon electrodes with high electrocatalytic activity and good stability. Here, a nitrogen, phosphorus co-doped graphite felt is prepared. Nitrogen introduces more negative charge into the carbon lattice due to the higher electronegativity, and more oxygen-containing functional groups will be introduced into the carbon lattice due to phosphorus-doped graphite felt. N, P co-doping provides more adsorption sites for vanadium ions. As a result, nitrogen, phosphorus co-doped graphite felt shows high electrochemical activity and good stability, and the corresponding VRFB presents a good voltage efficiency of 75% at a current density of 300 mA cm−2, which is 11% higher than the pristine graphite felt. During 100 charge/discharge cycles, the energy efficiency and voltage efficiency remain at 84% and 86% under the current density of 150 mA cm−2.
Rapid Diagnosis of Ductal Carcinoma In Situ and Breast Cancer Based on Raman Spectroscopy of Serum Combined with Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Wang Xianglei , Xie Fei , Yang Yang , Zhao Jin , Wu Guohua , Wang Shu
Published: January 2023

Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) and breast cancer are common female breast diseases and pose a serious health threat to women. Early diagnosis of breast cancer and DCIS can help to develop targeted treatment plans in time. In this paper, we investigated the feasibility of using Raman spectroscopy combined with convolutional neural network (CNN) to discriminate between healthy volunteers, breast cancer and DCIS patients. Raman spectra were collected from the sera of 241 healthy volunteers, 463 breast cancer and 100 DCIS patients, and a total of 804 spectra were recorded. The pre-processed Raman spectra were used as the input of CNN to establish a model to classify the three different spectra. After using cross-validation to optimize its hyperparameters, the model’s final classification performance was assessed using an unknown test set. For comparison with other machine learning algorithms, we additionally built models using support vector machine (SVM), random forest (RF) and k-nearest neighbor (KNN) methods. The final accuracies for CNN, SVM, RF and KNN were 98.76%, 94.63%, 80.99% and 78.93%, respectively. The values for area under curve (AUC) were 0.999, 0.994, 0.931 and 0.900, respectively. Therefore, our study results demonstrate that CNN outperforms three traditional algorithms in terms of classification performance for Raman spectral data and can be a useful auxiliary diagnostic tool of breast cancer and DCIS.
Electroencephalographic Effective Connectivity Analysis of the Neural Networks during Gesture and Speech Production Planning in Young Adults
Authors: Sato Yohei , Nishimaru Hiroshi , Matsumoto Jumpei , Setogawa Tsuyoshi , Nishijo Hisao
Published: January 2023

Gestures and speech, as linked communicative expressions, form an integrated system. Previous functional magnetic resonance imaging studies have suggested that neural networks for gesture and spoken word production share similar brain regions consisting of fronto-temporo-parietal brain regions. However, information flow within the neural network may dynamically change during the planning of two communicative expressions and also differ between them. To investigate dynamic information flow in the neural network during the planning of gesture and spoken word generation in this study, participants were presented with spatial images and were required to plan the generation of gestures or spoken words to represent the same spatial situations. The evoked potentials in response to spatial images were recorded to analyze the effective connectivity within the neural network. An independent component analysis of the evoked potentials indicated 12 clusters of independent components, the dipoles of which were located in the bilateral fronto-temporo-parietal brain regions and on the medial wall of the frontal and parietal lobes. Comparison of effective connectivity indicated that information flow from the right middle cingulate gyrus (MCG) to the left supplementary motor area (SMA) and from the left SMA to the left precentral area increased during gesture planning compared with that of word planning. Furthermore, information flow from the right MCG to the left superior frontal gyrus also increased during gesture planning compared with that of word planning. These results suggest that information flow to the brain regions for hand praxis is more strongly activated during gesture planning than during word planning.
Resilience of Neural Cellularity to the Influence of Low Educational Level
Authors: de Morais Viviane A. Carvalho , de Oliveira-Pinto Ana V. , Mello Neto Arthur F. , Freitas Jaqueline S. , da Silva Magnólia M. , Suemoto Claudia Kimie , Leite Renata P. , Grinberg Lea T. , Jacob-Filho Wilson , Pasqualucci Carlos , Nitrini Ricardo , Caramelli Paulo , Lent Roberto
Published: January 2023

Background: Education is believed to contribute positively to brain structure and function, as well as to cognitive reserve. One of the brain regions most impacted by education is the medial temporal lobe (MTL), a region that houses the hippocampus, which has an important role in learning processes and in consolidation of memories, and is also known to undergo neurogenesis in adulthood. We aimed to investigate the influence of education on the absolute cell numbers of the MTL (comprised by the hippocampal formation, amygdala, and parahippocampal gyrus) of men without cognitive impairment. Methods: The Isotropic Fractionator technique was used to allow the anisotropic brain tissue to be transformed into an isotropic suspension of nuclei, and therefore assess the absolute cell composition of the MTL. We dissected twenty-six brains from men aged 47 to 64 years, with either low or high education. Results: A significant difference between groups was observed in brain mass, but not in MTL mass. No significant difference was found between groups in the number of total cells, number of neurons, and number of non-neuronal cells. Regression analysis showed that the total number of cells, number of neurons, and number of non-neuronal cells in MTL were not affected by education. Conclusions: The results indicate a resilience of the absolute cellular composition of the MTL of typical men to low schooling, suggesting that the cellularity of brain regions is not affected by formal education.
Assessing Patterns of Anti-Social and Risky Behaviour in the Millennium Cohort Study—What Are the Roles of SES (Socio-Economic Status), Cognitive Ability and Personality?
Authors: O’Connell Michael
Published: January 2023

Data from the Millennium Cohort Study (UK) were examined to assess the correlates of anti-social and risky behaviour among adolescents. Over 10,000 seventeen-year-olds were asked about their participation in anti-social or risky behaviours. For SES (socio-economic status), the survey’s details around household income, and the educational attainment and occupational status of respondents’ parents were used. A latent measure was extracted from assessments of cognitive ability. Personality measures—the ‘Big Five’—were included, as was a composite measure of hyperactivity. SES and cognitive ability were very weakly associated with anti-social and risky behaviour, while personality measures, and hyperactivity were more strongly linked. Hyperactivity, Agreeableness and Extraversion were the most important measures linked to a measure of anti-social and risky activities (ASRA) and its subscales.
Pan-Cancer Study on Variants of Canonical miRNA Biogenesis Pathway Components: A Pooled Analysis
Authors: Elshazli Rami M. , Toraih Eman A. , Hussein Mohammad H. , Ruiz Emmanuelle M. , Kandil Emad , Fawzy Manal S.
Published: January 2023

Single nucleotide polymorphisms in genes involved in microRNA processing/maturation and release may deregulate the microRNAome expression levels. We aimed to assess the relationship between miRNA machinery genetic variants and human cancer risk using integrative bioinformatics analyses to identify the role of these genes in cancer aggressiveness. Mutations of 8176 pan-cancer samples were retrieved from 33 studies in “TCGA” database, and a Cox regression model for survival was performed. Next, 22 computationally identified variants within 11 genes were selected based on their high citation rate and MAF. Relevant articles through March 2020 were included. Pooled estimates under the five genetic association models were calculated. Publication bias and heterogeneity between articles were evaluated. Trial Sequential Analysis (TSA) was applied to assess the power and reliability of the draw conclusions. TCGA patients with different cancer types revealed significant alterations in miRNA machinery genes, with mutation frequency ranging from 0.6–13% of samples. RAN was associated with LN metastasis, while TARBP2 and PIWIL1 gene mutations exhibited better overall survival. In the meta-analysis, 45 articles (74,593 cases and 89,198 controls) met the eligibility criteria. Pooled analysis revealed an increased cancer risk with DROSHArs10719*G, RANrs3803012*G, DGCR8rs417309*A, and GEMIN3rs197414*A. In contrast, both DICER1rs1057035*T and GEMIN4rs2743048*G conferred protection against developing cancer. TSA showed the cumulative evidence is inadequate, and the addition of further primary studies is necessary. This study suggests a potential role of miRNA biogenesis genes in cancer development/prognosis. Further functional studies may reveal biological explanations for the differential risks of the machinery variants in different cancer types.
Current Understanding of DDX41 Mutations in Myeloid Neoplasms
Authors: Kim Kunhwa , Ong Faustine , Sasaki Koji
Published: January 2023

The DEAD-box RNA helicase 41 gene, DDX41, is frequently mutated in hereditary myeloid neoplasms, identified in 2% of entire patients with AML/MDS. The pathogenesis of DDX41 mutation is related to the defect in the gene’s normal functions of RNA and innate immunity. About 80% of patients with germline DDX41 mutations have somatic mutations in another allele, resulting in the biallelic DDX41 mutation. Patients with the disease with DDX41 mutations reportedly often present with the higher-grade disease, but there are conflicting reports about its impact on survival outcomes. Recent studies using larger cohorts reported a favorable outcome with a better response to standard therapies in patients with DDX41 mutations to patients without DDX41 mutations. For stem-cell transplantation, it is important for patients with DDX41 germline mutations to identify family donors early to improve outcomes. Still, there is a gap in knowledge on whether germline DDX41 mutations and its pathology features can be targetable for treatment, and what constitutes an appropriate screening/surveillance strategy for identified carriers. This article reviews our current understanding of DDX41 mutations in myeloid neoplasms in pathologic and clinical features and their clinical implications.
Liver Transplantation for Hepatic Metastases from Colorectal Cancer: Current Knowledge and Open Issues
Authors: Maspero Marianna , Sposito Carlo , Virdis Matteo , Citterio Davide , Pietrantonio Filippo , Bhoori Sherrie , Belli Filiberto , Mazzaferro Vincenzo
Published: January 2023

More than 40% of patients with colorectal cancer present liver metastases (CRLM) during the course of their disease and up to 50% present with unresectable disease. Without surgical interventions, survival for patients treated with systemic therapies alone is dismal. In the past, liver transplantation (LT) for patients with unresectable CRLM failed to show any survival benefit due to poor selection, ineffective chemotherapeutic regimens, unbalanced immunosuppression and high perioperative mortality. Since then and for many years LT for CRLM was abandoned. The turning point occurred in 2013, when the results from the Secondary Cancer (SECA I) pilot study performed at Oslo University were published reporting a 60% 5-year overall survival after LT in patients with unresectable CRLM. These results effectively reignited the interest in LT as a potential therapy for CRLM, and several trials are undergoing. The aims of this article are to give a comprehensive overview of the available evidence on LT for CRLM, discuss the open issues in this rapidly evolving field, and highlight possible ways to address the future of this fascinating therapeutic alternative for selected patients with CRLM.
Pathogenic Th2 Cytokine Profile Skewing by IFN-γ-Responding Vitiligo Fibroblasts via CCL2/CCL8
Authors: Jin Rong , Zhou Miaoni , Lin Fuquan , Xu Wen , Xu Aie
Published: January 2023

Purpose: Vitiligo is a T cell-mediated skin depigmentation disease. Though treatments arresting disease progression and inducing repigmentation are available, the efficacy of these options is often limited and poorly sustained. How stromal signals contribute to the interferon-γ-dominant skin niches is unclear. This study aims to determine how fibroblasts participate in the IFN-γ-dominant vitiligo niche. Patients and methods: Mouse vitiligo models were established. Fibroblasts from control and vitiligo mice were extracted for RNA sequencing. In vitro IFN-γ stimulation was performed to verify the JAK-STAT pathway by qPCR and Western blot. T cell polarization with chemokines was measured by flow cytometry. Protein levels in tissues were also examined by IHC. Results: The vitiligo mouse model recapitulates the human CD8-IFN-γ pathway. RNA sequencing revealed elevated chemokine CCL2 and CCL8 in vitiligo fibroblast, which may be regulated by the JAK-STAT signaling. Such phenomenon is verified by JAK inhibitor peficitinib in vitro. Moreover, CCL2 addition into the naïve T polarization system promoted type 2 cytokines secretion, which represents a hallmark of vitiligo lesions. Conclusion: Dermal fibroblasts, a principal constituent of skin structure, respond to IFN-γ by skewing T cells towards a type 2 cytokine profile via CCL2 and CCL8, which can be abrogated by JAK inhibitor peficitinib.
Using Single-Cell RNA Sequencing and MicroRNA Targeting Data to Improve Colorectal Cancer Survival Prediction
Authors: Willems Andrew , Panchy Nicholas , Hong Tian
Published: January 2023

Colorectal cancer has proven to be difficult to treat as it is the second leading cause of cancer death for both men and women worldwide. Recent work has shown the importance of microRNA (miRNA) in the progression and metastasis of colorectal cancer. Here, we develop a metric based on miRNA-gene target interactions, previously validated to be associated with colorectal cancer. We use this metric with a regularized Cox model to produce a small set of top-performing genes related to colon cancer. We show that using the miRNA metric and a Cox model led to a meaningful improvement in colon cancer survival prediction and correct patient risk stratification. We show that our approach outperforms existing methods and that the top genes identified by our process are implicated in NOTCH3 signaling and general metabolism pathways, which are essential to colon cancer progression.
Thirty-Five Years of Aerosol–PBAP in situ Research in Brazil: The Need to Think outside the Amazonian Box
Authors: Mantoani Maurício C. , Martins Jorge A. , Martins Leila Droprinchinski , Carotenuto Federico , Šantl-Temkiv Tina , Morris Cindy E. , Rodrigues Fábio , Gonçalves Fábio L. T.
Published: January 2023

Aerosols and primary biological aerosol particles (PBAPs) play an important role in regulating the global climate, but information summarizing the available knowledge is limited. Here, we present a systematic review of in situ studies performed in the last 35 years on aerosols–PBAPs in Brazil, with 212 studies encompassing 474 cases. The Amazon rainforest was the most studied biome, represented by 72% of cases, followed by the Atlantic Forest with 18%. Studies focusing the Amazon mostly investigated climate-related issues and aerosol physics, with less than 5% examining the biological identity of aerosols, whereas outside the Amazon, this number reached 16%. Whilst more than half of the cases within Amazon (55%) were held at seven sampling sites only, conclusions were mainly extrapolated to the entire biome. Contrarily, research beyond the Amazon has mostly addressed the temporal and biological characterisation of PBAPs, and not only is it scattered, but also scarce. Regarding sampling efforts, most cases (72%) had fewer than 100 days of sampling, and 60% of them spanned less than half a year of study. We argue that scientists should produce more detailed/complete assessments of aerosols–PBAPs in Brazil as a whole, particularly considering their biological identity, given their importance to global climate regulation.
Study on Diffusion Kinetics and Law of Chromium on the Surface of Low-Carbon Steel
Authors: Zhang Shixian , Zhang Haichao , Zhang Hongbo , Zhao Xiaoping , Li Yungang
Published: January 2023

Cr/low-carbon steel surface composites were prepared by aqueous solution co-deposition and high-temperature solid-state diffusion technology, and the macro rule of the solid-state diffusion of chromium on the surface of low-carbon steel was analyzed. The molecular dynamics (MD) method was used to simulate and calculate the diffusion process of the Cr/Fe interface, and the macro and micro diffusion mechanisms were analyzed. The results show that the diffusion of the chromium in iron is the combined action of the temperature, crystal structure and lattice distortion, and the diffusion coefficients of chromium in α-Fe and γ-Fe have little difference. The vacancy diffusion mechanism of the first adjacent transition is the main diffusion mode. In practice, chromium atoms diffuse along the grain boundaries of the low-carbon steel matrix and provide pinning at the grain boundaries to prevent grain growth. The simulation law is in good agreement with the experimental law. The variation law of the average diffusion coefficient of chromium atoms with temperature is obtained. The diffusion rate of chromium in the bcc crystal structure is obviously higher than that in the fcc crystal structure. In the same crystal structure, the diffusion coefficient of chromium increases with the increase in temperature. However, in the lattice transition temperature region, the diffusion coefficient of chromium gradually decreases with the increase in temperature until the end of the transformation.
Nanoparticles in Dentistry—Current Literature Review
Authors: Gronwald Barbara , Kozłowska Lidia , Kijak Karina , Lietz-Kijak Danuta , Skomro Piotr , Gronwald Krzysztof , Gronwald Helena
Published: January 2023

Interest in the topic of nanoparticles (NPs) and nanomaterials used in dentistry is growing in research as well as clinical settings. In recent years, an increasing number of nanomaterials have been developed and tested, enabling novel solutions unavailable in dentistry before. The aim of the article is to review the current status of knowledge regarding NPs used in modern dentistry. The analysis was made using Science Direct, PubMed and Scopus databases, and articles were selected based on relevance and topicality. The exclusion criteria determining timeliness consisted of a selection of essential works on this topic no older than 2017. Regarding appropriateness, only studies on nanoparticles in the field of dentistry were considered, and were categorized into three subtopics: antimicrobial NPs, therapeutic NPs, material property improving NPs. Each category was further divided into specific groups focusing on the clinical use of the particles. Inside every section, analysis concerning the current state of knowledge about the use and properties of nanoparticles within specific material groups was conducted. Additionally, within this article, common and rising trends in the NPs field were analyzed; additionally, based on novel NPs approaches, possible future applications and dangers were considered.
Crystal Engineering of Cation-Radical Salts with Weakly Coordinating Carbadodecaborate Anions
Authors: Adeniyi Emmanuel , Zeller Matthias , Rosokha Sergiy V.
Published: January 2023

An X-ray structural analysis revealed that the salts of N,N,N′,N′-tetramethyl-p-phenylenediamine (TMPD), N-methylphenothiazine (MPTZ), and octamethylbiphenylene (OMB), with dodecamethyl- or hexabromo-substituted carbadodecaborate anions, comprise layers of the (partially) oxidized organic donors separated by sheets of the bulky counter-ions. The cationic layers comprise either well-separated TMPD+ or MPTZ+ cation radicals or π-stacks of partially oxidized OMB moieties consisting of more or less distinct (OMB)2+ units. Quantum mechanical calculations revealed that the formation of essentially isolated cation-radical or π-bonded associations in the salts with these weakly coordinating anions is correlated with the strength of the multicenter π-bonding between cation radicals. This pancake bonding is determined by the balance of the electrostatic repulsion between cationic counterparts and attractive dispersion and weakly covalent interactions.
Characteristics of Postoperative Patients with Breast Cancer Aged 65 Years and Older
Authors: Akezaki Yoshiteru , Nakata Eiji , Kikuuchi Masato , Tominaga Ritsuko , Kurokawa Hideaki , Okamoto Masaki , Ozaki Toshifumi , Aogi Kenjiro , Ohsumi Shozo , Sugihara Shinsuke
Published: January 2023

Objective: This study aimed to compare postoperative patients with breast cancer aged ≥65 years with those aged <65 years and clarify the characteristics of postoperative patients with breast cancer aged ≥65. Methods: In total, 376 patients in whom we were able to evaluate survey items one month after surgery were included in the study. Comorbidity, including diabetes mellitus and hypertension, shoulder range of motion (ROM), upper-limb function, and psychological problems, was evaluated. Results: Hypertension and diabetes mellitus were significantly higher in patients aged ≥65 years (the elderly group) than in those aged <65 years (the non-elderly group) (p < 0.05). Preoperative shoulder flexion ROM was significantly restricted in the elderly group compared with the non-elderly group (p < 0.05). Preoperative shoulder abduction ROM was significantly restricted in the elderly group compared with the non-elderly group (p < 0.05). At one month after surgery, upper-limb function was more impaired in the non-elderly group than in the elderly group (p < 0.05). In both groups, both ROM and upper-limb function were significantly impaired one month after surgery compared with before surgery (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Postoperative patients with breast cancer aged ≥65 years should be careful about risk management and intervention during rehabilitation. Preoperative evaluation of shoulder ROM should be performed because patients aged ≥65 years have limited ROM before surgery.
Drug Repurposing in Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinoma: Old Solutions for New Problems
Authors: Doumat George , Daher Darine , Zerdan Morgan Bou , Nasra Nasri , Bahmad Hisham F. , Recine Monica , Poppiti Robert
Published: January 2023

Lung cancer is the second most common cancer and the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in 2022. The majority (80%) of lung cancer cases belong to the non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) subtype. Despite the increased screening efforts, the median five-year survival of metastatic NSCLC remains low at approximately 3%. Common treatment approaches for NSCLC include surgery, multimodal chemotherapy, and concurrent radio and chemotherapy. NSCLC exhibits high rates of resistance to treatment, driven by its heterogeneity and the plasticity of cancer stem cells (CSCs). Drug repurposing offers a faster and cheaper way to develop new antineoplastic purposes for existing drugs, to help overcome therapy resistance. The decrease in time and funds needed stems from the availability of the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved drugs to be repurposed. This review provides a synopsis of the drug-repurposing approaches and mechanisms of action of potential candidate drugs used in treating NSCLC, including but not limited to antihypertensives, anti-hyperlipidemics, anti-inflammatory drugs, anti-diabetics, and anti-microbials.
Another Chapter in the History of the European Invasion by the Western Conifer Seed Bug, Leptoglossus occidentalis: The Iberian Peninsula
Authors: Farinha Ana Oliveira , Branco Manuela , Courtin Claudine , Lesieur Vincent , Gallego Diego , Sanchez-Garcia Francisco Javier , Sousa Edmundo , Roques Alain , Auger-Rozenberg Marie-Anne , Bras Audrey
Published: January 2023

The Western conifer seed bug, Leptoglossus occidentalis, is native to North America and has already been considered a significant pest in several European countries since its first observation in Italy in 1999. In Spain and Portugal, it was recorded for the first time in 2003 and 2010, respectively, and its impact on Stone Pine (Pinus pinea) is of major concern. Before developing control measures for this insect pest, it is paramount to clarify its spatiotemporal dynamics of invasion. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to (a) characterise the genetic structure and diversity and (b) invasion pathways of L. occidentalis populations in the Iberian Peninsula. To do so, specimens of L. occidentalis were collected at fourteen sites widely distributed within the Iberian Peninsula. We used mtDNA sequences of Cytochrome b and eleven microsatellite markers to characterise the genetic diversity and the population structure in the Iberian Peninsula. Our genetic results combined with the observational dates strongly support a stratified expansion of L. occidentalis invasion in the Iberian Peninsula proceeding from multiple introductions, including at least one in Barcelona, one in Valencia, and one in the west coast or in the Southeastern region.
New Species of Terrestrial Isopods (Crustacea, Isopoda, Oniscidea) from Liguria and Surrounding Regions, Northern Italy
Authors: Gardini Pietro , Taiti Stefano
Published: January 2023

Five new species of terrestrial isopods from Liguria and surrounding regions are described: Buddelundiella zoiai sp. n. (Buddelundiellidae), Sardoniscus marmoratus sp. n. (Oniscidae), Cylisticus poggii sp. n. (Cylisticidae), Porcellio incavatus sp. n. (Porcellionidae), and Alloschizidium segestanum sp. n. (Armadillidiidae). Buddelundiella zoiai, Cylisticus poggii and Alloschizidium segestanum were collected in edaphic environments, while Sardoniscus marmoratus and Porcellio incavatus were found in leaf litter or under not deeply embedded rocks. The diagnostic characters, the affinities and the distribution of the new species are discussed.
State of the Art of Different Zirconia Materials and Their Indications According to Evidence-Based Clinical Performance: A Narrative Review
Authors: Arellano Moncayo Alexia María , Peñate Lissethe , Arregui María , Giner-Tarrida Luis , Cedeño Rosario
Published: January 2023

The aim of this study was to perform a narrative review to identify the modifications applied to the chemical structure of third- and fourth-generation zirconia ceramics and to determine the influence of these changes on the mechanical and optical properties. A bibliographical search using relevant keywords was conducted in the PubMed® and EBSCO databases. The abstracts and full texts of the resulting articles were reviewed for final inclusion. Fifty-four articles were included in this review. The analyzed topics were: (1) the composition of first- and second-generation zirconia materials (Y-TZP), (2) the behavior of the studied generations in relation to mechanical and optical properties, and (3) the modifications that were carried out on third-generation (5Y-TZP) and fourth-generation (4Y-TZP) zirconia materials. However, studies focusing on these specific characteristics in third- and fourth-generation zirconia materials are scarce. The review shows that there is a lack of sufficient knowledge about the chemical modifications of zirconia in the new generations.
TFD-IIS-CRMCB: Telecom Fraud Detection for Incomplete Information Systems Based on Correlated Relation and Maximal Consistent Block
Authors: Li Ran , Chen Hongchang , Liu Shuxin , Wang Kai , Wang Biao , Hu Xinxin
Published: January 2023

Telecom fraud detection is of great significance in online social networks. Yet the massive, redundant, incomplete, and uncertain network information makes it a challenging task to handle. Hence, this paper mainly uses the correlation of attributes by entropy function to optimize the data quality and then solves the problem of telecommunication fraud detection with incomplete information. First, to filter out redundancy and noise, we propose an attribute reduction algorithm based on max-correlation and max-independence rate (MCIR) to improve data quality. Then, we design a rough-gain anomaly detection algorithm (MCIR-RGAD) using the idea of maximal consistent blocks to deal with missing incomplete data. Finally, the experimental results on authentic telecommunication fraud data and UCI data show that the MCIR-RGAD algorithm provides an effective solution for reducing the computation time, improving the data quality, and processing incomplete data.
A Review of Icing and Anti-Icing Technology for Transmission Lines
Authors: Zhang Zhijin , Zhang Hang , Yue Song , Zeng Wenhui
Published: January 2023

This paper reviews the application of various advanced anti-icing and de-icing technologies in transmission lines. Introduces the influence of snowing and icing disasters on transmission lines, including a mechanical overload of steel towers, uneven icing or de-icing at different times, Ice-covered conductors galloping and icing flashover of insulators, as well as the icing disasters of transmission lines around the world in recent years. The formation of various icing categories on transmission lines, as well as the effect of meteorological factors, topography, altitude, line direction, suspension height, shape, and electric field on ice-covered transmission lines, are all discussed in this study. The application of various advanced anti/de-icing technologies and their advantages and disadvantages in power transmission lines are summarized. The anti/de-icing of traditional mechanical force, AC/DC short-circuit ice melting, and corona effect is introduced. Torque pendulum and diameter-expanded conductor (DEC) have remarkable anti-icing effects, and the early investment resources are less, the cost is low, and the later maintenance is not needed. In view of some deficiencies of AC and DC ice melting, the current transfer intelligent ice melting device (CTIIMD) can solve the problem well. The gadget has a good effect and high reliability for de-icing conductors in addition to being compact and inexpensive. The application of hydrophobic materials and heating coatings on insulators has a certain anti-icing effect, but the service life needs further research. Optimizing the shed’s construction and arranging several string kinds on the insulators is advisable to prevent icing and the anti-icing flashover effect. In building an insulator, only a different shed layout uses non-consumption energy.
Worldwide Research Trends in Agrivoltaic Systems—A Bibliometric Review
Authors: Chalgynbayeva Aidana , Gabnai Zoltán , Lengyel Péter , Pestisha Albiona , Bai Attila
Published: January 2023

An agrovoltaic system combines agricultural crop production and energy production in the same place, emphasizing the dual use of land. This article provides a bibliometric analysis of agrivoltaic topics based on publications indexed in SCOPUS, in which either economic assessments of agrivoltaics, agrivoltaic systems for crops and livestock animals, photovoltaic greenhouse and agrivoltaics with open field are discussed, or its ideas are used to analyze certain locations. A bibliometric analysis was conducted using the SCOPUS database. Multiple bibliometric tools, such as R Studio and Biblioshiny, were applied to analyze data for this study. Finally, 121 relevant articles were obtained and reviewed. The results show that the focus topic is a brand-new research area, with the majority of relevant scientific publications concentrated in the last three years, and with much ongoing research. This is why AV-specialized scientific conferences might be the best place to get relevant and up-to-date information, with the highest number being offered in the USA and China. A typical trend in recent years has been researched, focusing on different agricultural aspects. The research results show that scientific publications in recent years mainly focus on short-term predictions, there is no recognized evaluation standard for various prediction analyses, and it is difficult to evaluate various prediction methods so far.
A New Method for Determining Interfacial Tension: Verification and Validation
Authors: Gajewski Andrzej , Teleszewski Tomasz Janusz
Published: January 2023

Surface tension is a meaningful parameter influencing boiling and condensation in macroscopic scale, in confined spaces, or for nanofluids; it further affects boiling with surfactants. Surface, or interfacial, tension is an important property in the research into increasing heat transfer, enhancing efficiency of photovoltaic systems, improving engine operation, or forming drugs or polymers. It is often determined using axisymmetric drop shape analysis based on the differential equations system formulated by Bashforth and Adams. The closed-form expression of the interface shape states the radii defining the bubbles are the negative numbers, which causes the temperature profile drops along the heat transfer direction, e.g., in the Wiśniewski formulas for the temperature in the vapor bubbles; moreover, the drop, or bubble, possesses only one main radius of curvature, which may reduce the number of the unknowns and equations in the Bashforth and Adams algorithm. An alternative method applying the closed-form expression for the droplet shape is validated for the water (denser) drop flowing down in octane (the lighter liquid); its spare equation is used for verifying the outcomes.
Computational Fluid Dynamic Simulation of Leakage Acoustic Waves Propagation Model for Gas Pipelines
Authors: Li Xuejie , Xue Yuan , Li Yuxing , Feng Qingshan
Published: January 2023

When leakage occurs for natural gas pipelines, acoustic waves generated at the leakage point will propagate to both ends of the pipe, which will be measured and processed to detect and locate the leakage. When acoustic waves propagate in the gas, the amplitude will attenuate and the waveform will spread, which decides the installation distance of acoustic sensors. Therefore, computational fluid dynamic (CFD) simulation research on the acoustic wave propagation model is accomplished and verified by experiments to provide the foundation for the acoustic leak location method. The propagation model includes two parts: amplitude attenuation model and waveform spreading model. Both can be obtained by the established CFD simulation model. Additionally, the amplitude attenuation model can be verified by the experiments. Then, the simulation method is applied to conclude the propagation model under variable conditions, including different flow directions, Reynolds numbers, and diameters. Finally, the experimental demonstration of the leak location based on the propagation model is given. The results indicate that not only the gas viscosity but also the gas flow can influence the propagation model, and the leak location method based on the propagation model is effective. Conclusions can be drawn that CFD simulation on the propagation model for natural gas pipelines is an efficient way to carry out research and provide the theoretical basis for acoustic leak location method application.
Analysis of Coolant Purification Strategies for Tritium Control in DEMO Water Primary Coolant
Authors: Narcisi Vincenzo , Quartararo Andrea , Moscato Ivo , Santucci Alessia
Published: January 2023

A major objective of the European fusion program is the design of the DEMOnstration power plant named DEMO. Up to now, most fusion experiments have been dedicated to a plasma physics investigation while, in DEMO-oriented activities, large attention is devoted also to other systems necessary to produce tritium and to convert the fusion power to electricity. The blanket region, responsible for tritium breeding, is characterized by high tritium concentrations, high temperature, and large heat transfer metallic surfaces in which tritium can permeate. Therefore, the problem of tritium permeation and the resulting tritium content in the primary coolant are of great relevance for DEMO. For the pre-conceptual design of the Water-Cooled Lead–Lithium variant, the tritium permeation rate from blanket into coolant was assessed and possible mitigation strategies were suggested. Starting from a review of the CANDU tritium experience, a preliminary assessment of the maximum tritium concentration target in the DEMO primary coolant was performed and different strategies (off-line, on-line, and hybrid) for the water coolant purification system coupled with the DEMO operating scenario were analyzed. The intent is to identify suitable solutions to reduce the tritium concentration inside the water coolant, having in mind the complexity of a water detritiation process.
Study on Microscopic Pore Structure Classification for EOR of Low Permeability Conglomerate Reservoirs in Mahu Sag
Authors: Wang Yong , Zhao Xubin , Tang Chuanyi , Zhang Xuyang , Ma Chunmiao , Yi Xingyu , Tan Fengqi , Zhao Dandan , Li Jie , Jing Yuqian
Published: January 2023

The microscopic pore structure controls the fluid seepage characteristics, which in turn affect the final recovery of the reservoir. The pore structures of different reservoirs vary greatly; therefore, the scientific classification of microscopic pore structures is the prerequisite for enhancing the overall oil recovery. For the low permeability conglomerate reservoir in Mahu Sag, due to the differences in the sedimentary environment and late diagenesis, various reservoir types have developed in different regions, so it is very difficult to develop the reservoir using an integrated method. To effectively solve the problem of microscopic pore structure classification, the low permeability conglomerate of the Baikouquan Formation in Well Block Ma18, Well Block Ma131, and Well Block Aihu2 are selected as the research objects. The CTS, HPMI, CMI, NMR, and digital cores are used to systematically analyze the reservoir micro pore structure characteristics, identify the differences between different reservoir types, and optimize the corresponding micro pore structure characteristic parameters for reservoir classification. The results show that the pore types of the low permeability conglomerate reservoir in the Baikouquan Formation of the Mahu Sag are mainly intragranular dissolved pores and residual intergranular pores, accounting for 93.54%, microfractures and shrinkage pores that are locally developed, accounting for 5.63%, and other pore types that are less developed, accounting for only 0.83%. On the basis of clear pore types, the conglomerate reservoir of the Baikouquan Formation is divided into four types based on the physical properties and microscopic pore structure parameters. Different reservoir types have good matching relationships with lithologies. Sandy-grain-supported conglomerate, gravelly coarse sandstone, sandy-gravelly matrix-supported conglomerate, and argillaceous-supported conglomerate correspond to type I, II, III, and IV reservoirs, respectively. From type I to type IV, the corresponding microscopic pore structure parameters show regular change characteristics, among which, porosity and permeability gradually decrease, displacement pressure and median pressure increase, maximum pore throat radius, median radius, and average capillary radius decrease, and pore structure becomes worse overall. Apparently, determining the reservoir type, clarifying its fluid migration rule, and formulating a reasonable development plan can substantially enhance the oil recovery rate of low permeability conglomerate reservoirs.