bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
24-Epibrassinolide Facilitates Adventitious Root Formation by Coordinating Cell-Wall Polyamine Oxidase- and Plasma Membrane Respiratory Burst Oxidase Homologue-Derived Reactive Oxygen Species in Capsicum annuum L.
Authors: Wen Zhengyang , Chen Zhifeng , Liu Xinyan , Sun Jingbo , Zhang Feng , Zhang Mengxia , Dong Chunjuan
Published: July 2023

Adventitious root (AR) formation is a critical process in cutting propagation of horticultural plants. Brassinosteroids (BRs) have been shown to regulate AR formation in several plant species; however, little is known about their exact effects on pepper AR formation, and the downstream signaling of BRs also remains elusive. In this study, we showed that treatment of 24-Epibrassinolide (EBL, an active BR) at the concentrations of 20–100 nM promoted AR formation in pepper (Capsicum annuum). Furthermore, we investigated the roles of apoplastic reactive oxygen species (ROS), including hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and superoxide radical (O2•−), in EBL-promoted AR formation, by using physiological, histochemical, bioinformatic, and biochemical approaches. EBL promoted AR formation by modulating cell-wall-located polyamine oxidase (PAO)-dependent H2O2 production and respiratory burst oxidase homologue (RBOH)-dependent O2•− production, respectively. Screening of CaPAO and CaRBOH gene families combined with gene expression analysis suggested that EBL-promoted AR formation correlated with the upregulation of CaPAO1, CaRBOH2, CaRBOH5, and CaRBOH6 in the AR zone. Transient expression analysis confirmed that CaPAO1 was able to produce H2O2, and CaRBOH2, CaRBOH5, and CaRBOH6 were capable of producing O2•−. The silencing of CaPAO1, CaRBOH2, CaRBOH5, and CaRBOH6 in pepper decreased the ROS accumulation and abolished the EBL-induced AR formation. Overall, these results uncover one of the regulatory pathways for BR-regulated AR formation, and extend our knowledge of the functions of BRs and of the BRs-ROS crosstalk in plant development.
A Review of the Changes Produced by Extrusion Cooking on the Bioactive Compounds from Vegetal Sources
Authors: Mironeasa Silvia , Coţovanu Ionica , Mironeasa Costel , Ungureanu-Iuga Mădălina
Published: July 2023

The demand for healthy ready-to-eat foods like snacks is increasing. Physical modification of vegetal food matrices through extrusion generates significant changes in the chemical composition of the final product. There is a great variety of food matrices that can be used in extrusion, most of them being based on cereals, legumes, fruits, vegetables, or seeds. The aim of this review was to summarize the main effects of the extrusion process on the bioactive compounds content, namely phenolics, terpenes, vitamins, minerals, and fibers of vegetal mixes, as well as on their biological activity. The literature reported contradictory results regarding the changes in bioactive compounds after extrusion, mainly due to the differences in the processing conditions, chemical composition, physicochemical properties, and nutritional value of the extruded material and quantification methods. The thermolabile phenolics and vitamins were negatively affected by extrusion, while the fiber content was proved to be enhanced. Further research is needed regarding the interactions between bioactive components during extrusion, as well as a more detailed analysis of the impact of extrusion on the terpenes since there are few papers dealing with this aspect.
Agile Machine Learning Model Development Using Data Canyons in Medicine: A Step towards Explainable Artificial Intelligence and Flexible Expert-Based Model Improvement
Authors: Žlahtič Bojan , Završnik Jernej , Blažun Vošner Helena , Kokol Peter , Šuran David , Završnik Tadej
Published: July 2023

Over the past few decades, machine learning has emerged as a valuable tool in the field of medicine, driven by the accumulation of vast amounts of medical data and the imperative to harness this data for the betterment of humanity. However, many of the prevailing machine learning algorithms in use today are characterized as black-box models, lacking transparency in their decision-making processes and are often devoid of clear visualization capabilities. The transparency of these machine learning models impedes medical experts from effectively leveraging them due to the high-stakes nature of their decisions. Consequently, the need for explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) that aims to address the demand for transparency in the decision-making mechanisms of black-box algorithms has arisen. Alternatively, employing white-box algorithms can empower medical experts by allowing them to contribute their knowledge to the decision-making process and obtain a clear and transparent output. This approach offers an opportunity to personalize machine learning models through an agile process. A novel white-box machine learning algorithm known as Data canyons was employed as a transparent and robust foundation for the proposed solution. By providing medical experts with a web framework where their expertise is transferred to a machine learning model and enabling the utilization of this process in an agile manner, a symbiotic relationship is fostered between the domains of medical expertise and machine learning. The flexibility to manipulate the output machine learning model and visually validate it, even without expertise in machine learning, establishes a crucial link between these two expert domains.
Vehicle Target Recognition Method Based on Visible and Infrared Image Fusion Using Bayesian Inference
Authors: Wu Jie , Zhang Xiaoqian
Published: July 2023

The accuracy of single-mode optical imaging systems for vehicle target recognition is limited by external ambient illumination or imaging equipment resolution. In this paper, a vehicle target recognition method based on visible and infrared image fusion using Bayesian inference is proposed. Based on the significance area detection combined with Spectral Residual (SR) and EdgeBox algorithms, the target area is marked on the visible light image, and the maximum between-class variance method and GrabCut algorithm are used to segment vehicle targets in marked images. The open operation filter is employed to extract the vehicle target features in the infrared image, and the fusion result of the visible light image and the infrared image is obtained by introducing the Intersection Over Union (IOU), and as the parameter of Bayesian inference, the class and attribute of the parameter are defined and substituted into the established naive Bayesian classification model, and the probability of the class is calculated to determine whether the vehicle target is recognized. Experiments under different test conditions were carried out, and the experimental results were as follows: the accuracy of image target recognition reached 77% when the vehicle target was not occluded; when the vehicle target was partially occluded, the accuracy of image target recognition reached 74%; the results verified that the proposed method can recognize vehicle targets in different scenarios.
Investigation of Spatial Symmetry Error Measurement, Evaluation and Compensation Model for Herringbone Gears
Authors: Liang Zhipeng , Zhou Huawei
Published: July 2023

In the machining process for herringbone gears manufactured by numerical control gear-shaping machines, out-of-tolerance problems of symmetry error generally exist. This paper proposed a high-precision control of spatial symmetry error in the one-time forming machining for herringbone gear. To improve the machining symmetry accuracy and quality of herringbone gear, a mathematical model of measurement, evaluation and compensation for spatial symmetry error was established based on the least square method. Meanwhile, a new shaping machining method based on spatial symmetry error detection and compensation was proposed. The test results indicated that the proposed method can maintain symmetry within 0.02 mm. This study provided a novel spatial symmetry error detection and compensation machining method for herringbone gear that has advantages compared to traditional methods in terms of machining accuracy, efficiency, and continuous machining type.
Optical Beamforming Networks for Millimeter-Wave Wireless Communications
Authors: Duan Fei , Guo Yuhao , Gu Zenghui , Yin Yanlong , Wu Yixin , Chen Teyan
Published: July 2023

With the rapid data growth driven by smart phone, high-definition television and virtual reality/augmented reality devices and so on, the launched 5G and upcoming 6G wireless communications tend to utilize millimeter wave (mmWave) to achieve broad bandwidth. In order to compensate for the high propagation loss in mmWave wireless communications and track the moving users, beamforming and beamsteering are indispensable enabling technologies. These have promising potential to be realized through the use of optical beamforming networks (OBFNs) that have a wider bandwidth and smaller size, lower power consumption, and lower loss compared to those of their electric counterparts. In this paper, we systematically review various OBFN architectures using true time delays and optical phase shifters, as well as discuss performances of different architectures, scalable technologies that promote the advancement of OBFNs, and the application potentials of OBFNs. Two-dimensional OBFNs with discrete components or integrated optical devices have been elaborated, in addition to one-dimensional architectures. Moreover, the state-of-the-art technologies relative to reducing the size, loss and nonlinearity of OBFNs have also been discussed here.
The Role of the Distance between Fine Non-Metallic Oxide Inclusions on the Fatigue Strength of Low-Carbon Steel
Authors: Lipiński Tomasz
Published: July 2023

The fatigue strength of steel is an important parameter determining the use of the alloy. Conducting material durability tests depending on the working conditions of the material requires a lot of work. Therefore, the industry knows methods to estimate the fatigue life of steel on the basis of other parameters or measurements of other mechanical properties. One of such parameters is the fatigue strength coefficient, which allows one to link the fatigue strength with the hardness results of a specific steel grade. Alloys produced in industrial conditions contain impurities that can affect the properties of steel, including fatigue strength. Impurities in steel depend mainly on the technology of its production. One of the technologies that allows one to obtain high-purity steel is by subjecting it to secondary metallurgy treatment consisting of desulfurization and refining with argon. The fatigue strength of steel depends, among other things, on the morphology of impurities. In the work, the influence of the distance between small non-metallic inclusions with a diameter of less than 2 µm on the fatigue strength of steel, expressed by the fatigue resistance factor, was assessed. The research was carried out in industrial conditions on seven independent melts of low-carbon steel capable of forming a martensite microstructure. Several dozen fatigue strength tests were carried out for each of the casts. The volume fraction, size, and distribution of pollutants were examined. It was found that the main impurity is Al2O3, with a diameter of about 1.8 µm occurring at a distance of about 12 µm. The distance between small non-metallic inclusions affects the fatigue resistance factor, and small non-metallic inclusions with a diameter of less than 2 µm hinder the destruction of high-ductility steel. The paper presents an example of the structure of non-metallic inclusions for heat, the relative volume of inclusions, the average impurity diameter and impurity spacing for impurity dimensional ranges, the impurity spacing λ for the total volume of impurities, and the bending fatigue strength coefficient tested in steel after hardening and tempering at different tempering temperatures.
Predicting Saudi Stock Market Index by Using Multivariate Time Series Based on Deep Learning
Authors: Jarrah Mutasem , Derbali Morched
Published: July 2023

Time-series (TS) predictions use historical data to forecast future values. Various industries, including stock market trading, power load forecasting, medical monitoring, and intrusion detection, frequently rely on this method. The prediction of stock-market prices is significantly influenced by multiple variables, such as the performance of other markets and the economic situation of a country. This study focuses on predicting the indices of the stock market of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) using various variables, including opening, lowest, highest, and closing prices. Successfully achieving investment goals depends on selecting the right stocks to buy, sell, or hold. The output of this project is the projected closing prices over the next seven days, which aids investors in making informed decisions. Exponential smoothing (ES) was employed in this study to eliminate noise from the input data. This study utilized exponential smoothing (ES) to eliminate noise from data obtained from the Saudi Stock Exchange, also known as Tadawul. Subsequently, a sliding-window method with five steps was applied to transform the task of time series forecasting into a supervised learning problem. Finally, a multivariate long short-term memory (LSTM) deep-learning (DL) algorithm was employed to predict stock market prices. The proposed multivariate LSTMDL model achieved prediction rates of 97.49% and 92.19% for the univariate model, demonstrating its effectiveness in stock market price forecasting. These results also highlight the accuracy of DL and the utilization of multiple information sources in stock-market prediction.
Calculation of the Effects of Silver (Ag) Dopant on Radiation Shielding Efficiency of BiPbSrCaCuO Superconductor Ceramics Using EGS4 Code
Authors: Kaya Selim
Published: July 2023

In the current study, the effects of silver (Ag) additive on the radiation shielding efficiency of BiPbSrCaCuO superconducting ceramics was calculated using the EGS4 code and discussed theoretically by comparison with XCOM data. The mass attenuation coefficients (µ/ρ) for BiPbSrCaCuO superconductor ceramics and their contents were investigated theoretically (WinXcom and EGS4) at gamma-ray energies ranging from 59.5 to 1332 keV. The theoretical values were computed in the energy range from 1 keV to 100 MeV using the WinXcom program. Then, using the mass attenuation coefficients, some shielding parameters were determined, such as the mean free path (MFP), the half value layer (HVL), the effective atomic number (Zeff), the radiation protection efficiency (RPE), the macroscopic fast neutron removal cross-sections (ΣR, cm−1) and the gamma-ray kerma coefficients (kγ). Theoretically, the results obtained with XCOM and EGS-4 were found to be in good agreement. The radiation shielding efficiency (RPE), neutron removal cross-section (ΣR, cm−1), maximum and semi-valent layer (HVL), and mean free path (MFP) values were found to be smaller for BiPbSrCaCuO superconducting ceramics as the silver (Ag) contribution was increased. Data from this study can guide further research and development of shielding materials for gamma-ray and neutron shielding.
The Effects of Sex, Women’s Body Composition and Monthly Cycle Phases on the Sensory Threshold of Upper Limb to Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation in Healthy Subjects
Authors: Witkoś Joanna , Hartman-Petrycka Magdalena , Błażejewski Grzegorz
Published: July 2023

Neuromuscular excitability plays an essential role in electrotherapy treatment. The vast majority of these treatments are procedures that change the sensitivity to sensory stimuli, especially pain, with the use of an electric current. The aim of this study was to assess changes in the sensory threshold in response to transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), taking into account certain personal factors, such as sex, body composition, and phases of the menstrual cycle. The study involved 205 women and 49 men aged 19–33 years. Sensory threshold was examined by TENS stimulation (a biphasic current waveform, 100 Hz and 100 µs) and body composition using a TANITA analyzer. The mean sensitivity threshold in women was lower than in men (mean ± SD, F: 8.78 ± 2.11 mA vs. M: 11.20 ± 3.29 mA, p < 0.001). There were no significant differences in sensory threshold during the different phases of a woman’s monthly cycle. The taller the woman, the higher the sensory threshold (B ± SE, 0.15 ± 0.07, p = 0.036), while those with a higher percentage of body fat and a higher total water content had a lower sensory threshold (fat: B ± SE, −0.25 ± 0.07, p < 0.001; water: B ± SE, −0.20 ± 0.07, p = 0.003). In conclusion, the sensory threshold in women was lower than in men. In women aged 19–33 years, the phases of the monthly cycle did not affect the sensory threshold; however, being taller and having less body fat and a lower water content increased the sensory threshold.
Stabilization of Road Embankments on Peat Soils Using Oil Shale Ash and Pozzolanic Additives
Authors: Pallav Vello , Teppand Tõnis , Leinpuu Andrus , Shanskiy Merrit , Mets Mait , Mändar Hugo , Rikmann Ergo , Liiv Jüri
Published: July 2023

Using kukersite oil shale ash for the stabilization of organic-rich soils has been extensively studied but without much success. The main reason for this is the retarding effect of humic acids present in organic-rich soils on the formation of the C–S–H (calcium–silicate–hydrate) phase, which effectively prevents the solidification of cementitious materials in peat soils. Based on the studies performed at the University of Tartu, we have developed a novel method for the in situ mass stabilization of peat soils using waste materials (calcareous fly ash and silica fume). In this manner, the perfect hardening of peat–ash mixtures (to each 1 m3 of soil, 150–400 kg ash, 25–50 L pozzolanic additives, and 2.5–5 kaNaOH were added) can be achieved. A test road embankment was constructed under extremely hard conditions in a peat quarry that is currently in use.
Numerical Simulation of Subdam Settlement in Ash Disposal Based on CGSW Optimization
Authors: Wang Hao , Wu Yong , Tian Yun , Li Xuefeng , Yang Zongyao , He Lindong
Published: July 2023

The stacking of impermissible materials in the disposal of dry fly ash is unprecedented in the last 40 years of power plant management in China, and their effect on the stability of the whole facility is uncertain. Due to the lack of relevant treatment experience, a more comprehensive method such as numerical modeling must be adopted for the final design. This paper set up a borehole database from geological logging data to obtain the distribution of the coal gangue solid waste. Then, it established an accurate three-dimensional mesh model through Rhino. Based on elastic–plastic mechanics, the finite difference code Flac3D 6.0 was employed to study the risk of the coal gangue as a dam foundation. A comparative analysis of the influence of the displacement method and the composite foundation method on subdam deformation and differential subsidence was conducted. The simulation revealed that the composite foundation method showed the best reductions: 70.57% in shear failure, 97.83% in tension failure, and 22.63% in maximum subsidence. Ultimately, the optimum stone column diameter of 0.5 m and the spacing of 6 m were proposed due to the standard deviation.
Effects of Lime Content on Road Performance of Low Liquid Limit Clay
Authors: Zhang Jinli , Li Hai , Peng Junhui , Zhang Zhe
Published: July 2023

Low liquid limit clay has a low plastic index, displays poor strength, and is sensitive to water, and its mechanical qualities decline as the water content changes, making it difficult to employ directly in the construction process. Adding lime is a fantastic way to improve it. The influence of lime concentration on the road performance of low liquid limit clay is investigated in this research using a limit water content test, compaction test, and California bearing ratio test. The results show that the original plain soil does not meet the requirements of highway subgrade filling, and the basic properties of subgrade soil are improved to varying degrees after adding lime, resolving the problem regarding the original well-cultivated soil’s inability to meet the requirements of construction. The plastic limit of the improved soil increased by roughly 3% as the lime content increased, but the maximum dry density decreased dramatically by 9.03%, 5.71%, and 5.98%, respectively. With an increase of 57.3% in lime content and compaction times, the California bearing ratio increases dramatically. The ideal moisture content rises as the lime content rises. The optimal dosage is 6%, according to a rigorous study of several performance metrics.
UAV Path Planning Based on an Improved Chimp Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Chen Qinglong , He Qing , Zhang Damin
Published: July 2023

Path planning is one of the key issues in the research of unmanned aerial vehicle technology. Its purpose is to find the best path between the starting point and the destination. Although there are many research recommendations on UAV path planning in the literature, there is a lack of path optimization methods that consider both the complex flight environment and the performance constraints of the UAV itself. We propose an enhanced version of the Chimp Optimization Algorithm (TRS-ChOA) to solve the UAV path planning problem in a 3D environment. Firstly, we combine the differential mutation operator to enhance the search capability of the algorithm and prevent premature convergence. Secondly, we use improved reverse learning to expand the search range of the algorithm, effectively preventing the algorithm from missing high-quality solutions. Finally, we propose a similarity preference weight to prevent individuals from over-assimilation and enhance the algorithm’s ability to escape local optima. Through testing on 13 benchmark functions and 29 CEC2017 complex functions, TRS-ChOA demonstrates superior optimization capability and robustness compared to other algorithms. We apply TRS-ChOA along with five well-known algorithms to solve path planning problems in three 3D environments. The experimental results reveal that TRS-ChOA reduces the average path length/fitness value by 23.4%/65.0%, 8.6%/81.0%, and 16.3%/41.7% compared to other algorithms in the three environments, respectively. This indicates that the flight paths planned by TRS-ChOA are more cost-effective, smoother, and safer.
On Sufficiency Conditions for Some Robust Variational Control Problems
Authors: Saeed Tareq , Treanţă Savin
Published: July 2023

We study the sufficient optimality conditions for a class of fractional variational control problems involving data uncertainty in the cost functional. Concretely, by using the parametric technique, we prove the sufficiency of the robust necessary optimality conditions by considering convexity, quasi-convexity, strictly quasi-convexity, and/or monotonic quasi-convexity assumptions of the involved functionals.
Biological Recognition-Based Electrochemical Aptasensor for Point-of-Care Detection of cTnI
Authors: Ma Jianfeng , Feng Lin , Li Jie , Zhu Dan , Wang Lianhui , Su Shao
Published: July 2023

As a “gold standard biomarker”, cardiac troponin I (cTnI) is widely used to diagnose acute myocardial infarction (AMI). For an early clinical diagnosis of AMI, it is necessary to develop a facile, fast and on-site device for cTnI detection. According to this demand, a point-of-care electrochemical aptasensor was developed for cTnI detection by coupling the advantages of screen-printed carbon electrode (SPCE) with those of an aptamer. Thiol and methylene blue (MB) co-labelled aptamer (MB-Apt-SH) was assembled on the surface of hierarchical flower-like gold nanostructure (HFGNs)-decorated SPCE (SPCE-HFGNs) to recognize and analyze cTnI. In the presence of cTnI, the specific biological recognition reaction between cTnI and aptamer caused the decrease in electrochemical signal. Under the optimal condition, this designed aptasensor showed wide linear range (10 pg/mL–100 ng/mL) and low detection limit for (8.46 pg/mL) for cTnI detection with high selectivity and stability. More importantly, we used a mobile phone coupled with a simple APP to efficiently detect cTnI in 10 μL 100% human serum samples, proving that this aptasensor has a promising potential in point-of-care testing.
Biological Risk Factors Influencing Vascular Cognitive Impairments: A Review of the Evidence
Authors: Iluț Silvina , Vesa Ştefan Cristian , Văcăraș Vitalie , Brăiță Lavinia , Dăscălescu Vlad-Constantin , Fantu Ioana , Mureșanu Dafin-Fior
Published: July 2023

Vascular cognitive impairment encompasses several types of deficits, ranging from mild cognitive impairment to dementia. Cognitive reserve refers to the brain’s ability to balance damage and improve performance through certain types of brain networks. The purpose of this review was to assess the relationship between reserve in vascular impairment, specifically looking at whether cognitive impairment is influenced by cognitive reserve, identifying significant vascular risk factors and their pathological pathways. To achieve this purpose, a review covering these issues was conducted within the Embase, Cochrane, and PubMed database. A total of 657 scientific articles were found, and 33 papers were considered for the final analysis. We concluded that there is no consensus on the protective effects of brain reserve on cognitive impairment. Stroke and diabetes can be considered significant risk factors for vascular cognitive impairment, while hypertension is not as damaging as blood pressure variability, which structurally alters the brain through a variety of mechanisms.
The Relationship between Paresthesia and the Presence of Cardiac Dysautonomia in Patients with Post-COVID-19 Syndrome: A Preliminary Observational Study
Authors: López-Galán Erislandis , Montoya-Pedrón Arquímedes , Sánchez-Hechavarría Miguel Enrique , Muñoz-Bustos Mario Eugenio , Muñoz-Bustos Gustavo Alejandro
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Post-Coronavirus disease 2019 (Post-COVID-19) syndrome has neurological symptoms related to the dysfunction of the autonomous nerve system. However, a pathogenic relationship between post-COVID-19 syndrome and dysautonomia still remains to be demonstrated. Establishing a pathogenic relationship between paresthesia and the presence of cardiac dysautonomia in patients with post-COVID-19 syndrome is the objective of this study. Participants and Methods: This observational study was carried out in the neurophysiology service wing of the Juan Bruno Zayas Hospital, Santiago de Cuba, in Cuba. The patients were recruited through a post-COVID-19 clinic at the same hospital. A variability study of cardiac frequency and a test of autonomic cardiovascular reflexes was carried out, which is composed of deep breathing, orthostatism, and the Valsalva maneuver. Results: The variability parameters of the cardiac frequency, the expiration–inspiration ratio between deep breaths, and the Valsalva Index showed no statistically significant differences between healthy participants and those with post-COVID-19 syndrome. During the Valsalva maneuver, there was a greater cardiac frequency response in participants with post-COVID-19 syndrome than in healthy subjects. The difference in supine and standing blood pressure was significantly minor in patients with post-COVID-19 syndrome. The logarithm of high frequency (log HF) increased significantly in patients with paresthesia when compared to patients without paresthesia. Conclusions: In the autonomic function tests, no signs of dysautonomia were found in patients with post-COVID-19 syndrome. The presence of paresthesias is associated with differences in cardiac vagal activity, which may suggest that damage to peripheral sensory nerve fibers could be associated with an affectation to autonomic fibres.
Design of High-Performing Hybrid Ground Source Heat Pump (GSHP) System in an Educational Building
Authors: Xue Tianchen , Jokisalo Juha , Kosonen Risto , Ju Yuchen
Published: July 2023

Underground thermal imbalance poses a challenge to the sustainability of ground source heat pump systems. Designing hybrid GSHP systems with a back-up energy source offers a potential way to address underground thermal imbalance and maintain system performance. This study aims to investigate different methods, including adjusting indoor heating and cooling setpoints and dimensioning air handling unit (AHU) cooling coils, heat pump and borehole field, for improving the long-term performance of a hybrid GSHP system coupled to district heating and an air-cooled chiller. The system performance, life cycle cost and CO2 emissions were analyzed based on 25-year simulations in IDA ICE 4.8. The results showed studied methods can significantly improve the hybrid GSHP system performance. By increasing the AHU cooling water temperature level and decreasing indoor heating and cooling setpoints, the ground thermal imbalance ratio was reduced by 12 percentage points, and the minimum borehole outlet brine temperature was increased by 3 °C in the last year. However, ensuring long-term operation still required a reduction in GSHP capacity or an increase in the total borehole length. The studied methods had varying effects on the total CO2 emissions, while insignificantly affecting the life cycle cost of the hybrid GSHP system.
Simulation Analysis of the Efficiency of Evacuation Entrances of Strip-like Metro Commercial Streets: A Case Study of Wuhan Business District Metro Station
Authors: Xu Hong , Chen Meixi
Published: July 2023

The high-performance evacuation of commercial streets is the primary requirement for subway planning and construction. This study introduces a simulation and analysis framework to analyze the evacuation efficiency of a strip subway commercial street with the same number of entrances and exits and different entrance positions. The study modifies the entrances/exits of strip-shaped metro business street plans in a simulation approach to analyze the variation in evacuation effectiveness under varying exit layouts, as well as the effects of different escape entries on the subway commercial street. The study aims to find the optimized spatial structure of evacuation entrances of strip-like metro commercial streets. In this simulation approach, the scenarios of different combinations of entrances and exits, the floating scenario of the number of people to be evacuated, and the scenario of adjusting the proportion of elevator personnel were simulated. Through comparing the evacuation times of these simulated layout scenarios, this study finds that equidistant interval insertion-type entrance and exit arrangements of strip-shaped metro business street plans are better suited to improving evacuation efficiency. This finding can be used as a manual to improve the evacuation capacity of subway commercial streets, which will be helpful for the planning and design of subway commercial streets.
Review of Advances in 3D Printing Technology of Cementitious Materials: Key Printing Parameters and Properties Characterization
Authors: Arrêteau Manon , Fabien Aurélie , El Haddaji Badreddine , Chateigner Daniel , Sonebi Mohammed , Sebaibi Nassim
Published: July 2023

The field of 3D printing is in rapid evolution. The 3D printing technology applied to civil engineering is a promising advancement. From equipment and mixture design to testing methods, new developments are popping up to respond to specific demands either for the fresh or hardened state. Standardizing methods are still at an early age. For this reason, there is a multitude of 3D printers with different capabilities to print cementitious materials. In addition, norms are not applicable in 3D printing material science. Advances are being made to create new methods of testing. The key parameters of this new 3D printing process based on stratification, multiple uses of binders, and measurement at fresh and hardened states are being perfected to achieve an industrial application. This article gives an overview of how 3D-printed structures are made along with critical parameters that influence their performances. Our review suggests that the quality of the 3D prints is determined by the printing method, key printing parameters, and the mix design. We list different tests to help characterize these 3D-printed cementitious materials at the fresh state and to assess their performances at the hardened state. We aim throughout this work to give a state-of-the-art of recent advances in 3D printing technology. This could help for a better understanding of cementitious materials 3D printing for current and future related research work.
Minimal Residual Disease in Multiple Myeloma: Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Medina-Herrera Alejandro , Sarasquete María Eugenia , Jiménez Cristina , Puig Noemí , García-Sanz Ramón
Published: July 2023

Responses to treatment have improved over the last decades for patients with multiple myeloma. This is a consequence of the introduction of new drugs that have been successfully combined in different clinical contexts: newly diagnosed, transplant-eligible or ineligible patients, as well as in the relapsed/refractory setting. However, a great proportion of patients continue to relapse, even those achieving complete response, which underlines the need for updated response criteria. In 2014, the international myeloma working group established new levels of response, prompting the evaluation of minimal residual disease (MRD) for those patients already in complete or stringent complete response as defined by conventional serological assessments: the absence of tumor plasma cells in 100,000 total cells or more define molecular and immunophenotypic responses by next-generation sequencing and flow cytometry, respectively. In this review, we describe all the potential methods that may be used for MRD detection based on the evidence found in the literature, paying special attention to their advantages and pitfalls from a critical perspective.
The First Cold Atmospheric Plasma Phase I Clinical Trial for the Treatment of Advanced Solid Tumors: A Novel Treatment Arm for Cancer
Authors: Canady Jerome , Murthy Saravana R. K. , Zhuang Taisen , Gitelis Steven , Nissan Aviram , Ly Lawan , Jones Olivia Z. , Cheng Xiaoqian , Adileh Mohammad , Blank Alan T. , Colman Matthew W. , Millikan Keith , O’Donoghue Cristina , Stenson Kerstin M. , Ohara Karen , Schtrechman Gal , Keidar Michael , Basadonna Giacomo
Published: July 2023

Local regional recurrence (LRR) remains the primary cause of treatment failure in solid tumors despite advancements in cancer therapies. Canady Helios Cold Plasma (CHCP) is a novel Cold Atmospheric Plasma device that generates an Electromagnetic Field and Reactive Oxygen and Nitrogen Species to induce cancer cell death. In the first FDA-approved Phase I trial (March 2020–April 2021), 20 patients with stage IV or recurrent solid tumors underwent surgical resection combined with intra-operative CHCP treatment. Safety was the primary endpoint; secondary endpoints were non-LRR, survival, cancer cell death, and the preservation of surrounding healthy tissue. CHCP did not impact intraoperative physiological data (p > 0.05) or cause any related adverse events. Overall response rates at 26 months for R0 and R0 with microscopic positive margin (R0-MPM) patients were 69% (95% CI, 19–40%) and 100% (95% CI, 100–100.0%), respectively. Survival rates for R0 (n = 7), R0-MPM (n = 5), R1 (n = 6), and R2 (n = 2) patients at 28 months were 86%, 40%, 67%, and 0%, respectively. The cumulative overall survival rate was 24% at 31 months (n = 20, 95% CI, 5.3–100.0). CHCP treatment combined with surgery is safe, selective towards cancer, and demonstrates exceptional LRR control in R0 and R0-MPM patients. (Clinical Trials identifier: NCT04267575).
Bile Acids, Intestinal Barrier Dysfunction, and Related Diseases
Authors: Shi Linsen , Jin Lihua , Huang Wendong
Published: July 2023

The intestinal barrier is a precisely regulated semi-permeable physiological structure that absorbs nutrients and protects the internal environment from infiltration of pathological molecules and microorganisms. Bile acids are small molecules synthesized from cholesterol in the liver, secreted into the duodenum, and transformed to secondary or tertiary bile acids by the gut microbiota. Bile acids interact with bile acid receptors (BARs) or gut microbiota, which plays a key role in maintaining the homeostasis of the intestinal barrier. In this review, we summarize and discuss the recent studies on bile acid disorder associated with intestinal barrier dysfunction and related diseases. We focus on the roles of bile acids, BARs, and gut microbiota in triggering intestinal barrier dysfunction. Insights for the future prevention and treatment of intestinal barrier dysfunction and related diseases are provided.
Layered Epitaxial Growth of 3C/4H Silicon Carbide Confined by Surface Micro-Nano Steps
Authors: Guo Ning , Pei Yicheng , Yuan Weilong , Li Yunkai , Zhao Siqi , Yang Shangyu , Zhang Yang , Liu Xingfang
Published: July 2023

In this study, we used a horizontal hot-wall CVD epitaxy apparatus to grow epitaxial layers on 4° off-axis 4H-SiC substrates. Epitaxial films were grown by adjusting the flow rate of the source gas at different levels. With an increase in the source gas flow rate, a notable transition in the crystalline structure of the epitaxial layer was observed, gradually shifting from 4H-SiC to 3C-SiC. Furthermore, the quality of the epitaxial layer correspondingly exhibited degradation. Specifically, for epitaxial films grown under moderate gas flow rates, the central region demonstrated a crystalline structure of 4H-SiC, while the outer ring region exhibited a crystalline structure of 3C-SiC. Using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) to observe the transition zone of the two regions, a region of 3C/4H overlapping growth below it was found. Bright areas corresponded to 3C, while dark areas corresponded to 4H, as confirmed by Raman spectroscopy and other SEM images. The growth interfaces of the two crystal types were clearly discernible and relatively compact. Furthermore, the growth angles of the two crystal types and their correlation with the cutting direction strongly suggest that this overlap is related to the formation of micro-nano steps on the substrate surface.
The Optimization of NiO Doping, Thickness, and Extension in kV-Class NiO/Ga2O3 Vertical Rectifiers
Authors: Chiang Chao-Ching , Li Jian-Sian , Wan Hsiao-Hsuan , Ren Fan , Pearton Stephen J.
Published: July 2023

Ga2O3 heterojunction rectifiers have emerged as a novel candidate for various power conversion applications by using NiO as the solution on the p-type side. In this work, the optimized design of high-breakdown (1–7 kV), vertical geometry NiO/Ga2O3 rectifiers was examined using the Silvaco TCAD simulator to determine the electric field distribution for different NiO parameters. The doping concentration (1017–1019 cm−3), thickness (10–70 nm) of the guard ring, and its extension beyond the anode (0–30 µm) are all important in determining where the device breakdown occurs. Spatially, this can vary from the edge of the bilayer NiO extension to directly at the periphery of the top contact, consistent with experimental results. This transition phenomenon is proven to be correlated with the depletion effect by monitoring the depletion width when ramping up the bias and the doping concentration. The breakdown voltage was also calculated as a function of NiO top and bottom layer thicknesses and the doping concentration under different critical breakdown fields, where the latter is determined by the material quality of the drift layer.
Crystal Structure of Bismuth-Containing Samarium Iron–Aluminium Borates Sm1−xBixFe3−yAly(BO3)4 (x = 0.05–0.07, y = 0–0.28) in the Temperature Range of 25–500 K
Authors: Smirnova Ekaterina S. , Alekseeva Olga A. , Artemov Vladimir V. , Sorokin Timofei A. , Khmelenin Dmitry N. , Sidorova Ekaterina V. , Frolov Kirill V. , Gudim Irina A.
Published: July 2023

Structural features of new mixed bismuth-containing samarium iron–aluminium borate single crystals Sm1−xBixFe3−yAly(BO3)4 (x = 0.05–0.07, y = 0–0.28) were studied using X-ray diffraction analysis based on aluminium content and temperature in the range 25–500 K. The crystals were grown using the solution-in-melt technique with Bi2Mo3O12 in a flux. The composition of the single crystals was analyzed using energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence and energy-dispersive X-ray elemental analysis. Temperature dependencies of Sm1−xBixFe3−yAly(BO3)4 unit-cell parameters were studied. Negative thermal expansion was identified below 100 K and represented by characteristic surfaces of the thermal expansion tensor. (Sm,Bi)–O, (Sm,Bi)–(Fe,Al), (Fe,Al)–(Fe,Al), and (Fe,Al)–O interatomic distances decreased with the addition of aluminium atoms. An increase in the (Fe,Al)–(Fe,Al) intrachain bond length at low temperatures in the magnetically ordered state weakened this bond, whereas a decrease in the (Fe,Al)–(Fe,Al) interchain distance strengthened super-exchange paths between different chains. It was found that the addition of aluminium atoms influenced interatomic distances in Sm1−xBixFe3−yAly(BO3)4 much more than lowering the temperature from 293 K to 25 K. The effect of aluminium doping on magnetoelectric properties and structural symmetry of rare-earth iron borates is also discussed.
Synthesis, Characterization and DFT Calculation of Naphthalene-Based Crystal Structure with Pyridylimine-Binding Units
Authors: Mirtamizdoust Babak , Karamad Amirhossein , Rahmani Negin , Hanifehpour Younes , Joo Sang Woo
Published: July 2023

This study focuses on the synthesis, characterization, and properties of a yellowish, prism-shaped ligand, N,N′-(naphthalene-1,5-diyl) bis(1-(pyridin-2-yl) methanimine). The ligand was synthesized through refluxing 1,5-diaminonaphthalene and pyridine-2-carbaldehyde in extra-pure ethanol, employing X-ray diffraction on single crystal. The crystal is structured with two pyridylimine-binding units linked to a naphthalene. The crystal has a P21/c space group in a monoclinic system. The structure was confirmed through an infrared examination. Computational spectroscopy and theoretical methods were used to investigate the ligand HOMO, LUMO, and charge distribution. Additionally, a Hirshfeld analysis was performed to investigate noncovalent interactions in the crystalline form. The results showed that dispersion forces (H···H) were the primary factor contributing to the arrangement of the ligand molecule, accounting for 45.3% of the total interactions in the absence of hydrogen bonding. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the synthesis, characterization, and properties of this unique ligand.
Preparing of Point-of-Care Reagents for Risk Assessment in the Elderly at Home by a Home-Visit Nurse and Verification of Their Analytical Accuracy
Authors: Takenaka Shoji , Moro Hiroshi , Shimizu Utako , Koizumi Takeshi , Nagano Kei , Edanami Naoki , Ohkura Naoto , Domon Hisanori , Terao Yutaka , Noiri Yuichiro
Published: July 2023

With the rising number of older adults residing at home, there is a growing need for risk assessment and patient management in home nursing. This study aims to develop point-of-care test (POCT) reagents that can aid in risk assessment and home care, especially in settings with limited resources. Our focus was on creating a C-reactive protein (CRP) POCT, which can accurately diagnose clinically significant judgment values in home nursing. Additionally, we assessed the utility of the HemoCue WBC DIFF system in providing differential counts of white blood cells (WBC). These performances were compared with a laboratory test using blood samples from patients with pneumonia. The CRP POCT showed a comparable result to that of a laboratory method, with an average kappa index of 0.883. The leukocyte count showed good agreement with the reference method. While the correlation coefficients for both neutrophil and lymphocyte counts were deemed acceptable, it was observed that the measured values tended to be smaller in cases where the cell count was higher. This proportional error indicates a weak correlation with the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio. CRP POCT and WBC counts provided reliable and accurate judgments. These tools may benefit risk management for older adults at home, patients with dementia who cannot communicate, and those living in depopulated areas.
Localized Insulin-Derived Amyloidosis in Diabetes Mellitus Type 1 Patient: A Case Report
Authors: Hrudka Jan , Sticová Eva , Krbcová Magdaléna , Schwarzmannová Klára
Published: July 2023

Localized insulin-derived amyloidosis (LIDA) is a rare local complication of subcutaneous insulin application occurring in patients with diabetes type 1 and 2. A 45-year-old woman with an 11-year history of insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus type 1 underwent a mini-abdominoplasty and excision of a long-standing palpable mass in left hypogastric subcutaneous tissue in the area of long-term insulin application. Histopathological examination revealed insulin amyloidosis as a substrate of the mass lesion. Several months after surgery, there was a transient improvement in previously poor diabetes compensation. In addition to local allergic reactions, abscess formation, scarring, lipoatrophy/dystrophy, and lipohypertrophy, LIDA broadens the differential diagnostic spectrum of local insulin injection complications. LIDA has been described as a cause of poor glycemia compensation, probably due to the conversion of soluble insulin into insoluble amyloid fibrils, which prevents insulin from circulating in the blood and regulating glucose blood concentration. Improvement in diabetes compensation has been described in several reports, including our case. LIDA is a rare local complication of subcutaneous insulin application; accurate diagnosis and treatment have clinical consequences. Immunohistochemical or immunofluorescence distinction from other amyloid types is highly recommended.
Latin-Square-Based Key Negotiation Protocol for a Group of UAVs
Authors: Kou Guangyue , Wei Guoheng , Yuan Zhimin , Li Shilei
Published: July 2023

Unmanned aerial vehicle mobile ad hoc networks (UAVMANETs) formed by multi-UAV self-assembling networks have rapidly developed and been widely used in many industries in recent years. However, UAVMANETs suffer from the problems of complicated key negotiations and the difficult authentication of members’ identities during key negotiations. To address these problems, this paper simplifies the authentication process by introducing a Latin square to improve the process of signature aggregation in the Boneh–Lynn–Shacham (BLS) signature scheme and to aggregate the keys negotiated via the elliptic-curve Diffie–Hellman (ECDH) protocol into new keys. As shown through security analysis and simulations, this scheme improves the efficiency of UAVMANET authentication and key negotiation while satisfying security requirements.
A 13.56 MHz Low-Power, Single-Stage CMOS Voltage-Boosting Rectifier for Wirelessly Powered Biomedical Implants
Authors: Hosseini Seyed Morteza , Maghami Mohammad Hossein , Amiri Parviz , Sawan Mohamad
Published: July 2023

In this paper, a low-power, single-stage, active rectifier based on a new charge-pump circuit is presented to be used in biomedical implants. The proposed circuit not only rectifies the AC input voltage to a DC voltage but also amplifies the DC output voltage to a higher level. Low-loss MOS switches are used in the structure of the designed circuit to provide high power conversion efficiency. In addition, by using two comparators, the reverse leakage current is somehow eliminated, resulting in a higher increase in the power efficiency. By tying the source and bulk terminals of the utilized transistors, the body effect problem has been solved, and by connecting the p-substrate to the ground, which is the lowest voltage in the circuit, the latch-up phenomenon is eliminated without any extra circuit. The proposed rectifier is implemented and post-layout simulated in a 0.18 µm standard CMOS technology. According to the simulation results, 1.205 V output DC voltage is achieved from an AC input signal with the peak-to-peak amplitude of 1 V at the operating frequency of 13.56 MHz with a 3 kΩ load resistance. The total active area of the designed circuit is 0.167 mm2 with a maximum power conversion efficiency of 98.2%, output power in the range of 0.5–1.5 mW, and voltage conversion ratio of 120%.