bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.) Essential Oils Prepared at Different Plant Phenophases on Pseudomonas aeruginosa LPS-Activated THP-1 Macrophages
Authors: Pandur Edina , Micalizzi Giuseppe , Mondello Luigi , Horváth Adrienn , Sipos Katalin , Horváth Györgyi
Published: July 2022

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.) essential oil (TEO) is widely used as an alternative therapy especially for infections of the upper respiratory tract. TEO possesses antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. The emerging antibiotic resistance of bacterial strains, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, has prompted the urge to find alternative treatments. In the present study, we examined the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of thymol, the main compound of TEO, and two TEOs prepared at the beginning and at the end of the flowering period that may make these oils promising candidates as complementary or alternative therapies against P. aeruginosa infections. The activity measurements of the antioxidant enzymes peroxidase (PX), catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) as well as the determination of total antioxidant capacity of P. aeruginosa-activated THP-1 cells revealed that thymol and both TEOs increased CAT and SOD activity as well as the antioxidant capacity of the THP-1 cells. The measurements of the proinflammatory cytokine mRNA expression and secreted protein level of LPS-activated THP-1 cells showed that from the two TEOs, only TEO prepared at the beginning of the flowering period acted as a potent inhibitor of the synthesis of IL-6, IL-8, IL-β, and TNF-α. Our results suggest that not only thymol, but also the synergism or the antagonistic effects of the additional compounds of the essential oils are responsible for the anti-inflammatory activity of TEOs.
Characterisation of Coastal Sediment Properties from Spectral Reflectance Data
Authors: Knight Jasper , Abd Elbasit Mohamed A. M.
Published: July 2022

Remote sensing of coastal sediments for the purpose of automated mapping of their physical properties (grain size, mineralogy and carbonate content) across space has not been widely applied globally or in South Africa. This paper describes a baseline study towards achieving this aim by examining the spectral reflectance signatures of field sediment samples from a beach–dune system at Oyster Bay, Eastern Cape, South Africa. Laboratory measurements of grain size and carbonate content of field samples (n = 134) were compared to laboratory measurements of the spectral signature of these samples using an analytical spectral device (ASD), and the results interrogated using different statistical methods. These results show that the proportion of fine sand, CaCO3 content and the distributional range of sediment grain sizes within a sample (here termed span) are the parameters with greatest statistical significance—and thus greatest potential interpretive value—with respect to their spectral signatures measured by the ASD. These parameters are also statistically associated with specific wavebands in the visible and near infrared, and the shortwave infrared parts of the spectrum. These results show the potential of spectral reflectance data for discriminating elements of grain size properties of coastal sediments, and thus can provide the baseline towards achieving automated spatial mapping of sediment properties across coastal beach–dune environments using hyperspectral remote sensing techniques.
Behavior of Mono Helical Pile Foundation in Clays under Combined Uplift and Lateral Loading Conditions
Authors: Venkatesan Vignesh , Mayakrishnan Muthukumar
Published: July 2022

Offshore wind energy development is driven by ongoing research and development to determine technological issues connected with offshore wind turbines. A fundamental design difficulty is the offshore wind turbine foundations. By far, one of the most commonly practiced foundation systems is mono helical pile foundations because of their simplicity and resilience. Most of the studies on mono helical piles were focused on granular soils and few studies were on clayey soils. However, mono helical piles in clayey soils under combined loading remain to be examined. Hence, a series of three-dimensional finite element analyses were carried out to predict the uplift and lateral capacity of the helical pile embedded in soft clay. The numerical model is verified using the results from the analytical results and a small-scale laboratory test. The verified model is used to simulate the helical pile behavior under the combined uplift and lateral loading condition considering the pile with a different number of helical plates. The results of the combined loading analyses reveal that the lateral capacity decreased when the pile was subjected to uplift load, and a maximum reduction of 12% is observed in mono helical piles provided with a single plate for an applied 50% of the ultimate uplift load. The influence of uplift load also increased the bending moment of the helical pile. Finally, it is suggested that the helical piles should be designed considering the aspects for combined loading conditions.
Quantitative Ultrasound Analysis of Oral Mucosa: An Observational Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Di Stasio Dario , Romano Antonio , Montella Marco , Contaldo Maria , Petruzzi Massimo , Hasan Iquebal , Serpico Rosario , Lucchese Alberta
Published: July 2022

(1) Background: Ultrasonography is gaining popularity as a diagnostic tool in the study of the oral mucosa. The precision of ultrasound has made it possible to identify the various layers, based on their echogenicity. The aim of this study was to perform a quantitative analysis of healthy oral mucosa based on the analysis of greyscale, echo levels (dB), and attenuation values (dB/cm). (2) Methods: Thirty-three patients (17 females and 16 males; 58.42 ± 13.29 y.o) were recruited for this study. The images were acquired with the GE Logiq-e R7 with a linear probe at 18 MHz frequency (harmonic). For each tissue (epithelium, rete ridges, connective tissue, muscle, and bone), regions of interest were traced for the analysis of echo levels, grey levels, and attenuation values. One-way ANOVA and pairwise comparison were performed. (3) Results: Three-hundred and thirty images were analyzed. Analysis of echo levels and grey levels showed a significant difference between epithelium and rete ridges (p = 0.001), and between rete ridges and connective tissue (p = 0.001), but not between epithelium and connective tissue (p = 0.831) or connective and muscle layers (p = 0.383). The attenuation values appeared to be specific for each tissue layer (p = 0.001). (4) Conclusions: Quantitative analysis applied to ultrasound imaging of the oral mucosa allows the definition of specific tissue areas.
Performance Evaluation of the Current Birmingham PEPT Cameras
Authors: Parker David J. , Hampel Dawid M. , Kokalova Wheldon Tzanka
Published: July 2022

Positron emission particle tracking (PEPT), a powerful technique for studying fluid and granular flows, has been developed at Birmingham over the last 30 years. In PEPT, a “positron camera” is used to detect the pairs of back-to-back photons emitted from positron annihilation. Accurate high-speed tracking of small tracer particles requires a positron camera with high sensitivity and data rate. In this paper, we compare the sensitivity and data rates obtained from the three principal cameras currently used at Birmingham. The recently constructed SuperPEPT and MicroPEPT systems have much higher sensitivity than the longstanding ADAC Forte and can generate data at much higher rates, greatly extending the potential for PEPT studies.
The Wheel Flat Identification Based on Variational Modal Decomposition—Envelope Spectrum Method of the Axlebox Acceleration
Authors: Liu Xuqi , He Zhenxing , Wang Yukui , Yang Lirong , Wang Haiyong , Cheng Long
Published: July 2022

The wheel flat can cause train and rail system infrastructure damage and endanger the running safety. To monitor the early wheel flat, it is urgent to carry out the theoretical basic research on the relationship between the vibration signal and the wheel flat. Moreover, to extract the characteristics of the wheel flat, an advanced and effective signal processing method need to be studied. A three-dimensional vehicle-track coupled dynamics model verified by field test is established based on the multi-body dynamics at first. The acceleration of the axlebox excited by the different wheel flat length is obtained by the dynamic simulation. The simulation considers the influence of various speeds and the short-wavelength track irregularities. Then, a combined method based on the variational modal decomposition (VMD) and the envelope spectrum (ES) is employed to detect the wheel flat signal. The feasibility of the method is further validated by comparing the co-existence of the wheel flat and the wheel eccentricity. Finally, field test is carried out to detect the wheel flat by using this method. The results indicate that the VMD-ES method accurately extracts the impact characteristics of the wheel flat and can quantitatively identify the wheel flat faults of small sizes.
Design and Experimental Analyses of an Accuracy Verification System for Airborne Target Tracking via Radar Guidance Systems
Authors: Han Yingchao , Meng Weixiao , Wang Xiaodong
Published: July 2022

A radar guidance system is a core component of a radar-guided air-to-air missile, and its tracking accuracy of airborne targets determines the operational effectiveness of said missile. To verify the tracking accuracy of the radar guidance system against an airborne target under the real flight conditions of the missile, an experimental verification system was implemented in this study. The mechanical, electrical, and bus interfaces of the verification system were examined. A tracking accuracy evaluation model of the seeker was designed based on the data obtained from the experiments using the proposed test method, and the tracking accuracy of the seeker in the typical state was analyzed.
An Investigation on Mineral Dissolution and Precipitation in Cement-Stabilized Soils: Thermodynamic Modeling and Experimental Analysis
Authors: Ji Enyue , Xu Fei , Wei Hua , Qian Wenxun , He Yang , Zhu Pengfei
Published: July 2022

Thermodynamic modeling helps to reveal insights into the basic chemical kinetics of dissolution and precipitation in cementitious materials, but relevant applications to cement-stabilized soils have seldom been reported. Based on the thermodynamic database of Cemdata18 and the pore solution composition of cement-stabilized soils, this study formulated a specialized thermodynamic model, using essential thermodynamic constants for soil minerals that were calculated to ensure the model’s accuracy. Two commercial admixtures of alkaline activator and polynaphthalene sulfonate were selected for the different modification mechanisms and plain and modified cement-stabilized soils were prepared. Compressive strength was tested to determine the specimens for pore solution analysis and the influences of the admixture type and dose on dissolution and precipitation were investigated by modeling the ionic activity products and saturation indexes. An X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis was performed to verify and complement the thermodynamic results. The major research findings were that (1) thermodynamic modeling can be reliably applied to cement-stabilized soils by providing the essential thermodynamic data and an appropriate product model, (2) the pozzolanic reaction is accelerated by increasing the OH− concentration in the pore solution, while the cement hydration is highly dependent on the dissolution of Ca(OH)2 and the relevant complexes and (3) the dissolution equilibrium of Ca(OH)2 is directly affected by the alkaline activator dissolution and is indirectly affected by the polynaphthalene sulfonate adsorption of the reactants.
Low-Frequency Magnetic Field Exposure System for Cells Electromagnetic Biocompatibility Studies
Authors: Judakova Zuzana , Janousek Ladislav , Radil Roman , Carnecka Lucia
Published: July 2022

The advancement in science and technology has resulted in the invention and widespread usage of many electrical devices in the daily lives of humans. The exponential use of modern electronic facilities has increased electromagnetic field exposure in the current population. Therefore, the presented article deals with designing, constructing, and testing a new applicator system developed for cells electromagnetic biocompatibility studies. The applicator system is intended for studying the non-thermal impacts of low-frequency magnetic field on cell cultures growth. Main attention is focused on increasing the capacity of the applicator and effectivity of the experiments. The key idea is to reach high level of the magnetic field homogeneity in an area of interest and the temperature stability during the biocompatibility studies. The applicator system is designed based on numerical simulations and its construction, measurements, and properties evaluation are also reported for proving the applicator’s functionality. The new applicator allows performing five parallel experiments at the same time under the same conditions. The simulation together with the experimental results confirm that the magnetic field homogeneity reaches 99% in the area of interest and the maximum temperature instability is lower than 2% during the experiments. The effectiveness of new applicator is tested and proved during preliminary experiments with Saccharomyces Cerevisiae cells. The observed effects of MF exposure represent maximal stimulation of 74% and maximal inhibition of 49%. The reason why MF with the same parameters induces inhibition in one sample and stimulation in the other will be the subject of further research.
Reliability and Efficiency of Metamodel for Numerical Back Analysis of Tunnel Excavation
Authors: Choi Yo-Hyun , Lee Sean Seungwon
Published: July 2022

During tunnel construction, the ground properties, initially evaluated, are continuously assessed and verified through back analysis. This procedure generally requires many numerical analyses, so a metamodel based on artificial neural networks has been used to reduce the number of analyses. More datasets can be used to create more reliable metamodels. However, there are no established rules regarding the optimum number of datasets for a reliable metamodel. Metamodels predicting the vertical displacement of the tunnel crown using five ground parameters (unit weight (γ), uniaxial compressive strength (UCS), material constant mi, geological strength index (GSI), and coefficient of lateral pressure (K)), with 3, 4, 6, 8, and 10 values per property, were created to confirm the reliability of the metamodel based on the number of datasets in this study. Metamodels using 6 and 8 values for each property showed 5% and 1% mean absolute percent errors, respectively. These numbers of each of the properties would be appropriate for developing the metamodel. Among the five parameters, only the results of the global sensitivity analyses of GSI and K are higher than 0.9. According to these results, it is verified that assessments based only on these parameters are sufficient in the back analysis.
Estrogen Induces c-myc Transcription by Binding to Upstream ERE Element in Promoter
Authors: Rehman Nazia , Khan Shahrukh , Manzoor Shumaila , Abubakar Muhammad , Sami Rokayya , Alharthy Saif A. , Baty Roua S. , Jafri Ibrahim , Alsubhi Nouf H. , Qari Sameer H. , Shahid Ramla
Published: July 2022

Estrogen Receptor α(ERα) is reported to regulate the expression of many target genes by binding to specific estrogen response elements (EREs) in their promoters. c-myc is known to be over-expressed in most of the human carcinomas due to dysregulated transcription, translation, or protein stability. Estrogen (E) can induce the c-myc expression by binding to an upstream enhancer element in its promoter. This suggests that elevated estradiol (E2), a potent form of estrogen, levels could induce the expression of c-myc in breast cancer (BC). The expression of c-myc and estradiol were induced at Stage III and Stage IV of breast cancer. c-myc and estradiol expression was also associated with the established risk factors of breast cancer, such as BMI. Age at the time of the disease was alsocorrelated with the relative expression of c-myc and estradiol (p < 0.0007 and p < 0.000001). The correlation coefficient (R = 0.462) shows a positive relationship between estradiol bound ER, ER, and c-myc. Docking energy −229 kJ/mol suggests the binding affinity of estradiol bound ER binding to 500 bp upstream of proximal promotor of c-myc at three distinct positions. The data presented in this study proposed that the expression of c-myc and estradiol are directly correlated in breast cancer. The prognostic utility of an induced level of c-myc associated with the normal status of the c-myc gene and estradiol for patients with metastatic carcinoma should be explored further.
A Parametric Approach for Conceptual Integration and Performance Studies of Liquid Hydrogen Short–Medium Range Aircraft
Authors: Cipolla Vittorio , Zanetti Davide , Abu Salem Karim , Binante Vincenzo , Palaia Giuseppe
Published: July 2022

The present paper deals with the investigation, at conceptual level, of the performance of short–medium-range aircraft with hydrogen propulsion. The attention is focused on the relationship between figures of merit related to transport capability, such as passenger capacity and flight range, and the parameters which drive the design of liquid hydrogen tanks and their integration with a given aircraft geometry. The reference aircraft chosen for such purpose is a box-wing short–medium-range airplane, the object of study within a previous European research project called PARSIFAL, capable of cutting the fuel consumption per passenger-kilometre up to 22%. By adopting a retrofitting approach, non-integral pressure vessels are sized to fit into the fuselage of the reference aircraft, under the assumption that the main aerodynamic, flight mechanic, and structural characteristics are not affected. A parametric model is introduced to generate a wide variety of fuselage-tank cross-section layouts, from a single tank with the maximum diameter compatible with a catwalk corridor to multiple tanks located in the cargo deck, and an assessment workflow is implemented to perform the structural sizing of the tanks and analyse their thermodynamic behaviour during the mission. This latter is simulated with a time-marching approach that couples the fuel request from engines with the thermodynamics of the hydrogen in the tanks, which is constantly subject to evaporation and, depending on the internal pressure, vented-out in gas form. Each model is presented in detail in the paper and results are provided through sensitivity analyses to both the technologic parameters of the tanks and the geometric parameters influencing their integration. The guidelines resulting from the analyses indicate that light materials, such as the aluminium alloy AA2219 for tanks’ structures and polystyrene foam for the insulation, should be selected. Preferred values are also indicted for the aspect ratios of the vessel components, i.e., central tube and endcaps, as well as suggestions for the integration layout to be adopted depending on the desired trade-off between passenger capacity, as for the case of multiple tanks in the cargo deck, and achievable flight ranges, as for the single tank in the section.
Apportionment of Vehicle Fleet Emissions by Linear Regression, Positive Matrix Factorization, and Emission Modeling
Authors: Wang Xiaoliang , Chen L.-W. Antony , Lu Minggen , Ho Kin-Fai , Lee Shun-Cheng , Ho Steven Sai Hang , Chow Judith C. , Watson John G.
Published: July 2022

Real-world emission factors for different vehicle types and their contributions to roadside air pollution are needed for air-quality management. Tunnel measurements have been used to estimate emission factors for several vehicle types using linear regression or receptor-based source apportionment. However, the accuracy and uncertainties of these methods have not been sufficiently discussed. This study applies four methods to derive emission factors for different vehicle types from tunnel measurements in Hong Kong, China: (1) simple linear regressions (SLR); (2) multiple linear regressions (MLR); (3) positive matrix factorization (PMF); and (4) EMission FACtors for Hong Kong (EMFAC-HK). Separable vehicle types include those fueled by liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), gasoline, and diesel. PMF was the most useful, as it simultaneously seeks source profiles and source contributions. Diesel-, gasoline-, and LPG-fueled vehicle emissions accounted for 52%, 10%, and 5% of PM2.5 mass, respectively, while ammonium sulfate (~20%), ammonium nitrate (6%), and road dust (7%) were also large contributors. MLR exhibited the highest relative uncertainties, typically over twice those determined by SLR. EMFAC-HK has the lowest relative uncertainties due to its assumption of a single average emission factor for each pollutant and each vehicle category under specific conditions. The relative uncertainties of SLR and PMF are comparable.
Diurnal and Seasonal Variation of High-Frequency Gravity Waves at Mohe and Wuhan
Authors: Wu Yiyun , Tang Qiong , Chen Zhou , Liu Yi , Zhou Chen
Published: July 2022

Using the meteor radar data at the Mohe (53.5° N, 122.3° E) and Wuhan (30.5° N, 114.2° E) regions over China, this paper conducts a study on the diurnal and seasonal variation of high-frequency (within 2 h) gravity waves (GWs) activity in the mesosphere and the lower thermosphere (MLT). On the basis of the composite day analysis and Hocking’s technique, the variance and momentum flux of the high-frequency GWs are derived from the radial velocities of individual meteor trails. Spectral results demonstrate that the high-frequency GWs activity shows 12 and 24 h periodicity, which may be due to the tidal modulation on the high-frequency GWs. The spectra of the variance and momentum flux also show 6 and 8 h periodicity. In addition to the diurnal variation, the high-frequency GWs activity shows the annual and semiannual oscillations. Additionally, the quasi-4-month oscillation is found at Mohe.
The SLI-SC Mathematical Model of African Swine Fever Transmission among Swine Farms: The Effect of Contaminated Human Vector
Authors: Chuchard Pearanat , Prathumwan Din , Trachoo Kamonchat , Maiaugree Wasan , Chaiya Inthira
Published: July 2022

In this paper, a mathematical model for African swine fever is modified by considering the swine farm with the contaminated human vector that is able to infect and spread the disease among swine farms. In the developed model, we have divided the swine farm density into three related groups, namely the susceptible swine farm compartment, latent swine farm compartment, and infectious swine farm compartment. On the other hand, the human vector population density has been separated into two classes, namely the susceptible human vector compartment and the infectious human vector compartment. After that, we use this model and a quarantine strategy to analyze the spread of the infection. In addition, the basic reproduction number R0 is determined by using the next-generation matrix, which can analyze the stability of the model. Finally, the numerical simulations of the proposed model are illustrated to confirm the results from theorems. The results showed that the transmission coefficient values per unit of time per individual between the human vector and the swine farm resulted in the spread of African swine fever.
Morphological and Molecular Characterization, and Demonstration of a Definitive Host, for Sarcocystis masoni from an Alpaca (Vicugna pacos) in China
Authors: Wu Zhipeng , Sun Jun , Hu Junjie , Song Jingling , Deng Shuangsheng , Zhu Niuping , Yang Yurong , Tao Jianping
Published: July 2022

Only 18S rDNA sequences of Sarcocystis spp. in South American camelids (SACs) are deposited in GenBank as references, and the definitive host of S. masoni in SACs is still unclear. Here, S. masoni sarcocysts detected in an alpaca (Vicugna pacos) in China were investigated with the aid of light (LM) and transmission electron (TEM) microscopy, and characterized using four genetic markers, i.e., 18S rDNA, 28S rDNA and ITS, and the mitochondrial cox1. Additionally, the life cycle of the parasite was completed via experimental animal infection. Under LM, S. masoni sarcocysts exhibited numerous 1.3–2.1 μm conical protrusions. Under TEM, the sarcocyst wall contained conical, cylindrical, or irregular-shaped villar protrusions, similar to type 9j. Two dogs (Canis familiaris) fed S. masoni sarcocysts shed sporocysts with a prepatent period of 8–9 days. The newly obtained 18S rDNA sequences showed 98.4–100% identity with those of S. masoni in SACs previously deposited in GenBank. Interestingly, the newly obtained sequences of 18S rDNA and mitochondrial cox1 shared 99.6–100% and 98.2–98.5% identity, respectively, with those of S. cameli in dromedary camels (Camelus dromedaries). Phylogenetic analysis based on sequences of 18S rDNA, 28S rDNA, or mitochondrial cox1 revealed that S. masoni has a close relationship with Sarcocystis spp. in ruminants. The relationship between S. masoni and S. cameli deserves to be further clarified in the future.
Roles of Natriuretic Peptides and the Significance of Neprilysin in Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Nakagawa Hitoshi , Saito Yoshihiko
Published: July 2022

Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) activate the guanylyl cyclase A receptor (GC-A), which synthesizes the second messenger cGMP in a wide variety of tissues and cells. C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) activates the cGMP-producing guanylyl cyclase B receptor (GC-B) in chondrocytes, endothelial cells, and possibly smooth muscle cells, cardiomyocytes, and cardiac fibroblasts. The development of genetically modified mice has helped elucidate the physiological roles of natriuretic peptides via GC-A or GC-B. These include the hormonal effects of ANP/BNP in the vasculature, autocrine effects of ANP/BNP in cardiomyocytes, and paracrine effects of CNP in the vasculature and cardiomyocytes. Neprilysin (NEP) is a transmembrane neutral endopeptidase that degrades the three natriuretic peptides. Recently, mice overexpressing NEP, specifically in cardiomyocytes, revealed that local cardiac NEP plays a vital role in regulating natriuretic peptides in the heart tissue. Since NEP inhibition is a clinically accepted approach for heart failure treatment, the physiological roles of natriuretic peptides have regained attention. This article focuses on the physiological roles of natriuretic peptides elucidated in mice with GC-A or GC-B deletion, the significance of NEP in natriuretic peptide metabolism, and the long-term effects of angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitor (ARNI) on cardiovascular diseases.
Acute Effects of Focused Ultrasound-Induced Blood-Brain Barrier Opening on Anti-Pyroglu3 Abeta Antibody Delivery and Immune Responses
Authors: Bathini Praveen , Sun Tao , Schenk Mathias , Schilling Stephan , McDannold Nathan J. , Lemere Cynthia A.
Published: July 2022

Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the accumulation of amyloid plaques and hyperphosphorylated tau in the brain. Currently, therapeutic agents targeting amyloid appear promising for AD, however, delivery to the CNS is limited due to the blood-brain-barrier (BBB). Focused ultrasound (FUS) is a method to induce a temporary opening of the BBB to enhance the delivery of therapeutic agents to the CNS. In this study, we evaluated the acute effects of FUS and whether the use of FUS-induced BBB opening enhances the delivery of 07/2a mAb, an anti-pyroglutamate-3 Aβ antibody, in aged 24 mo-old APP/PS1dE9 transgenic mice. FUS was performed either unilaterally or bilaterally with mAb infusion and the short-term effect was analyzed 4 h and 72 h post-treatment. Quantitative analysis by ELISA showed a 5–6-fold increase in 07/2a mAb levels in the brain at both time points and an increased brain-to-blood ratio of the antibody. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated an increase in IgG2a mAb detection particularly in the cortex, enhanced immunoreactivity of resident Iba1+ and phagocytic CD68+ microglial cells, and a transient increase in the infiltration of Ly6G+ immune cells. Cerebral microbleeds were not altered in the unilaterally or bilaterally sonicated hemispheres. Overall, this study shows the potential of FUS therapy for the enhanced delivery of CNS therapeutics.
Enhanced Antibacterial Activity of a Cationic Macromolecule by Its Complexation with a Weakly Active Pyrazole Derivative
Authors: Schito Anna Maria , Caviglia Debora , Brullo Chiara , Zorzoli Alessia , Marimpietri Danilo , Alfei Silvana
Published: July 2022

Molecules containing the pyrazole nucleus are widely reported as promising candidates to develop new antimicrobial compounds against multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria, where available antibiotics may fail. Recently, aiming at improving the too-high minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of a pyrazole hydrochloride salt (CB1H), CB1H-loaded nanoparticles (CB1H-P7 NPs) were developed using a potent cationic bactericidal macromolecule (P7) as polymer matrix. Here, CB1H-P7 NPs have been successfully tested on several clinical isolates of Gram-positive and Gram-negative species, including relevant MDR strains. CB1H-P7 NPs displayed very low MICs (0.6–4.8 µM), often two-fold lower than those of P7, on 34 out of 36 isolates tested. Upon complexation, the antibacterial effects of pristine CB1H were improved by 2–16.4-fold, and, unexpectedly, also the already potent antibacterial effects of P7 were 2–8 times improved against most of bacteria tested when complexed with CB1H. Time-killing experiments performed on selected species established that CB1H-P7 NPs were bactericidal against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Selectivity indices values up to 2.4, determined by cytotoxicity experiments on human keratinocytes, suggested that CB1H-P7 NPs could be promising for counteracting serious infections sustained by most of the isolates tested in this study.
Downregulation of STAT3 in Epstein-Barr Virus-Positive Hodgkin Lymphoma
Authors: Nagel Stefan , Meyer Corinna , Eberth Sonja , Haake Josephine , Pommerenke Claudia
Published: July 2022

STAT3 is a transcription factor which is activated via various signaling transduction pathways or Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection and plays an oncogenic role in lymphoid malignancies including Hodgkin lymphoma (HL). The tumor cells of HL are derived from germinal center B-cells and transformed by chromosomal rearrangements, aberrant signal transduction, deregulation of developmental transcription factors, and EBV activity. HL cell lines represent useful models to investigate molecular principles and deduced treatment options of this malignancy. Using cell line L-540, we have recently shown that constitutively activated STAT3 drives aberrant expression of hematopoietic NKL homeobox gene HLX. Here, we analyzed HL cell line AM-HLH which is EBV-positive but, nevertheless, HLX-negative. Consistently, AM-HLH expressed decreased levels of STAT3 proteins which were additionally inactivated and located in the cytoplasm. Combined genomic and expression profiling data revealed several amplified and overexpressed gene candidates involved in opposed regulation of STAT3 and EBV. Corresponding knockdown studies demonstrated that IRF4 and NFATC2 inhibited STAT3 expression. MIR155 (activated by STAT3) and SPIB (repressed by HLX) showed reduced and elevated expression levels in AM-HLH, respectively. However, treatment with IL6 or IL27 activated STAT3, elevated expression of HLX and MIR155, and inhibited IRF4. Taken together, this cell line deals with two conflicting oncogenic drivers, namely, JAK2-STAT3 signaling and EBV infection, but is sensitive to switch after cytokine stimulation. Thus, AM-HLH represents a unique cell line model to study the pathogenic roles of STAT3 and EBV and their therapeutic implications in HL.
Machine Learning-Enabled Prediction of 3D-Printed Microneedle Features
Authors: Rezapour Sarabi Misagh , Alseed M. Munzer , Karagoz Ahmet Agah , Tasoglu Savas
Published: July 2022

Microneedles (MNs) introduced a novel injection alternative to conventional needles, offering a decreased administration pain and phobia along with more efficient transdermal and intradermal drug delivery/sample collecting. 3D printing methods have emerged in the field of MNs for their time- and cost-efficient manufacturing. Tuning 3D printing parameters with artificial intelligence (AI), including machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL), is an emerging multidisciplinary field for optimization of manufacturing biomedical devices. Herein, we presented an AI framework to assess and predict 3D-printed MN features. Biodegradable MNs were fabricated using fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printing technology followed by chemical etching to enhance their geometrical precision. DL was used for quality control and anomaly detection in the fabricated MNAs. Ten different MN designs and various etching exposure doses were used create a data library to train ML models for extraction of similarity metrics in order to predict new fabrication outcomes when the mentioned parameters were adjusted. The integration of AI-enabled prediction with 3D printed MNs will facilitate the development of new healthcare systems and advancement of MNs’ biomedical applications.
Progression of LAMP as a Result of the COVID-19 Pandemic: Is PCR Finally Rivaled?
Authors: Mannier Cassidy , Yoon Jeong-Yeol
Published: July 2022

Reflecting on the past three years and the coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) pandemic, varying global tactics offer insights into the most effective public-health responses. In the US, specifically, rapid and widespread testing was quickly prioritized to lower restrictions sooner. Essentially, only two types of COVID-19 diagnostic tests were publicly employed during the peak pandemic: the rapid antigen test and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). However, neither test ideally suited the situation, as rapid antigen tests are far too inaccurate, and RT-PCR tests require skilled personnel and sophisticated equipment, leading to long wait times. Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) is another exceptionally accurate nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) that offers far quicker time to results. However, RT-LAMP COVID-19 tests have not been embraced as extensively as rapid antigen tests or RT-PCR. This review will investigate the performance of current RT-LAMP-based COVID-19 tests and summarize the reasons behind the hesitancy to embrace RT-LAMP instead of RT-PCR. We will also look at other LAMP platforms to explore possible improvements in the accuracy and portability of LAMP, which could be applied to COVID-19 diagnostics and future public-health outbreaks.
An Innovative Structural Dynamic Identification Procedure Combining Time Domain OMA Technique and GA
Authors: Russotto Salvatore , Di Matteo Alberto , Pirrotta Antonina
Published: July 2022

In this paper an innovative and simple Operational Modal Analysis (OMA) method for structural dynamic identification is proposed. It combines the recently introduced Time Domain–Analytical Signal Method (TD–ASM) with the Genetic Algorithm (GA). Specifically, TD–ASM is firstly employed to estimate a subspace of candidate modal parameters, and then the GA is used to identify the structural parameters minimizing the fitness value returned by an appropriately introduced objective function. Notably, this method can be used to estimate structural parameters even for high damping ratios, and it also allows one to identify the Power Spectral Density (PSD) of the structural excitation. The reliability of the proposed method is proved through several numerical applications on two different Multi Degree of Freedom (MDoF) systems, also considering comparisons with other OMA methods. The results obtained in terms of modal parameters identification, Frequency Response Functions (FRFs) matrix estimation, and structural response prediction show the reliability of the proposed procedure.
Cancer Therapeutic Targeting of Hypoxia Induced Carbonic Anhydrase IX: From Bench to Bedside
Authors: McDonald Paul C. , Chafe Shawn C. , Supuran Claudiu T. , Dedhar Shoukat
Published: July 2022

Carbonic Anhydrase IX (CAIX) is a major metabolic effector of tumor hypoxia and regulates intra- and extracellular pH and acidosis. Significant advances have been made recently in the development of therapeutic targeting of CAIX. These approaches include antibody-based immunotherapy, as well as use of antibodies to deliver toxic and radioactive payloads. In addition, a large number of small molecule inhibitors which inhibit the enzymatic activity of CAIX have been described. In this commentary, we highlight the current status of strategies targeting CAIX in both the pre-clinical and clinical space, and discuss future perspectives that leverage inhibition of CAIX in combination with additional targeted therapies to enable effective, durable approaches for cancer therapy.
Laccase Cross-Linked Ultraporous Aluminas for Sustainable Biodegradation of Remazol Brilliant Blue R
Authors: Xu Huan , Boeuf Guilhem , Zhu Kairuo , Jia Zixian , Kanaev Andrei , Azouani Rabah , Wu Zhengyan , Traore Mamadou , Elm’selmi Abdellatif
Published: July 2022

Over the past few decades, enzyme-based green and sustainable chemistry has attracted extensive research attention, which provides a promising alternative to the conventional treatment methods of recalcitrant micropollutants. However, enzyme denaturation and stability loss remain critical challenges for its potential applications in industrial wastewater treatment. In this study, laccase from Trametes versicolor (laccase T.) was cross-linked immobilized by ultraporous alumina (UPA) for the sustainable biodegradation of Remazol Brilliant Blue R (RBBR). Through sequential use of an aminosilane coupling agent (3-aminopropyl)triethoxysilane (APTES) and bifunctional cross-linker glutaraldehyde (GA), the synthesized biocatalysts showed better immobilization performances (about 4-fold to physical adsorption). The GA concentration considerably affected the laccase T. cross-linking degree, while the GA post-treatment protocol showed the highest laccase T. immobilization yield with lower activity recovery. Moreover, the biocatalyst stabilities including pH stability, thermal stability, storage stability, and reusability were also studied. Tolerance to broader pH and temperature ranges, better storage stability, good reusability of laccase T. cross-linked UPA(γ) biocatalysts, and their continuous RBRR biodegradation efficiency highlight the potentials of enzyme-based inorganic materials in industrial wastewater treatment, which can broaden our understanding of their practical applications in environmental fields.
Gas Sensitive Characteristics of Polyaniline Decorated with Molybdenum Ditelluride Nanosheets
Authors: Chen Xinpeng , Chen Xiangdong , Ding Xing , Yu Xiang
Published: July 2022

In this work, hydrochloric acid (HCl)-doped molybdenum ditelluride (MoTe2) nanosheets/polyaniline (PANI) nanofiber composites are prepared by in situ chemical oxidation polymerization, and then the composites are deposited on interdigital electrodes (IDEs) to fabricate a NH3 gas sensor. Morphological analysis of the composites reveals that the PANI fibers are deposited on 2D MoTe2 sheets, showing a porous mesh microstructure structure with a more continuous distribution of PANI layer. FTIR spectrum analysis indicates the interaction between the MoTe2 nanosheets and the PANI in the MoTe2/PANI composites. The results demonstrate that the as-prepared MoTe2/PANI composites exhibit higher response than the pure PANI, in particular, the 8 wt.% MoTe2/PANI composites display about 4.23 times enhancement in response value toward 1000 ppm NH3 gas compared with the pure PANI. The enhanced NH3 gas-sensitive properties may be due to the increasing surface area of MoTe2/PANI composite films and the possible interaction of the P-N heterojunctions formed between PANI and the 2H-MoTe2 nanosheets.
Multi-Wavelength Quantum Key Distribution Emulation with Physical Unclonable Function
Authors: Riggs Brit , Partridge Michael , Cambou Bertrand , Burke Ian , Rios Manuel Aguilar , Heynssens Julie , Ghanaimiandoab Dina
Published: July 2022

This work details the theory and implementation of a multi-wavelength quantum key distribution (QKD) emulation system with a physical unclonable function (PUF). Multi-wavelength QKD can eliminate the need to share a subsection of the final key for eavesdropper detection and allow for ternary and quaternary data transmission. The inclusion of the PUF adds an additional layer of security. We provide preliminary error analysis of our emulation system. To support this work, we introduce a bitwise transform operator that enables binary output of the PUF to satisfy the ternary and quaternary input requirements of the QKD system.
The Prediction of Survival after Surgical Management of Bone Metastases of the Extremities—A Comparison of Prognostic Models
Authors: Ben Gal Ofir , Soh Terrence Chi Fang , Vaughan Sarah , Jayasanker Viswanath , Mahendra Ashish , Gupta Sanjay
Published: July 2022

Individualized survival prognostic models for symptomatic patients with appendicular metastatic bone disease are key to guiding clinical decision-making for the orthopedic surgeon. Several prognostic models have been developed in recent years; however, most orthopedic surgeons have not incorporated these models into routine practice. This is possibly due to uncertainty concerning their accuracy and the lack of comparison publications and recommendations. Our aim was to conduct a review and quality assessment of these models. A computerized literature search in MEDLINE, EMBASE and PubMed up to February 2022 was done, using keywords: “Bone metastasis”, “survival”, “extremity” and “prognosis”. We evaluated each model’s performance, assessing the estimated discriminative power and calibration accuracy for the analyzed patients. We included 11 studies out of the 1779 citations initially retrieved. The 11 studies included seven different models for estimating survival. Among externally validated survival prediction scores, PATHFx 3.0, 2013-SPRING and potentially Optimodel were found to be the best models in terms of performance. Currently, it is still a challenge to recommend any of the models as the standard for predicting survival for these patients. However, some models show better performance status and other quality characteristics. We recommend future, large, multicenter, prospective studies to compare between PATHfx 3.0, SPRING 2013 and OptiModel using the same external validation dataset.
Neuroendocrine Tumor Arising within Mature Cystic Teratoma of the Pancreas: Literature Review and Case Report
Authors: Djokic Mihajlo , Hadzialjevic Benjamin , Rankovic Branislava , Dezman Rok , Tomazic Ales
Published: July 2022

Cystic teratomas are germ cell tumors most commonly found in the ovaries and testes. The pancreas, however, is very rare as a site of occurrence. Moreover, only two cases of cystic teratoma with concomitant neuroendocrine tumor have been reported to date. We report the case of a 33-year-old female who presented with abdominal pain. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging of the upper abdomen revealed an 85 mm cystic tumor in the head of the pancreas. Cystic teratoma and mucinous cystadenoma were suggested as differential diagnoses. Cytopathologic analysis of endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration was consistent with mucinous cystadenoma. Therefore, the patient underwent surgical resection. Histologic analysis revealed a mature cystic teratoma of the pancreas with a concomitant neuroendocrine tumor. The patient is in great condition at 8 months follow-up. Cystic teratoma of the pancreas with a concomitant neuroendocrine tumor is an extremely rare condition. Surgical resection remains the mainstay of treatment as it provides a definitive diagnosis and no recurrences have been reported to date.
The Accelerated Right Ventricular Failure in Fetal Anemia in the Presence of Restrictive Foramen Ovale
Authors: Luewan Suchaya , Tongprasert Fuanglada , Srisupundit Kasemsri , Tongsong Theera
Published: July 2022

Objective: To describe serious hemodynamic changes secondary to anemia in the case of restrictive foramen ovale (FO). Case: A 43-year-old pregnant woman, G4P0030, underwent fetal echocardiography at 35 weeks of gestation and was found to have (1) restrictive FO; (2) poor right ventricular function; (3) unbalanced hemodynamics; (4) fetal anemia (high MCA-PSV and hepatosplenomegaly). Acid-elution test indicated feto-maternal hemorrhage. Cesarean section was performed for postnatal blood transfusion. Nevertheless, the newborn developed heart failure and died after partial blood exchanges. Conclusions: Insights gained from this study are as follows: (1) Restrictive FO in structurally normal hearts can modify fetal response to anemia differently, by unequally distributing blood volume, leading to much more deteriorating right ventricular function. (2) To make decisions for intrauterine or extrauterine treatment in cases of anemia-associated heart failure, several factors must be taken into account such as gestational age, fetal cardiac function, and placental function. Because of the hyperdynamic state of newborns immediately after birth, delivery can deteriorate the compromised heart to irreversible failure. Intrauterine transfusion for a well-prepared heart just before delivery may be the best option since the baby should be well oxygenated at the time of delivery.
Physical-Layer Security, Quantum Key Distribution, and Post-Quantum Cryptography
Authors: Djordjevic Ivan B.
Published: July 2022

The growth of data-driven technologies, 5G, and the Internet pose enormous pressure on underlying information infrastructure [...]
Research on Nickel Material Trade Redistribution Strategy Based on the Maximum Entropy Principle
Authors: Wang Xingxing , Wang Anjian , Zhong Weiqiong , Zhu Depeng
Published: July 2022

In the double carbon background, riding the wind of new energy vehicles and the battery high nickelization, nickel resources rise along with the trend. In recent years, due to the influence of geopolitical conflicts and emergencies, as well as the speculation and control of international capital with its advantages and rules, the world may face price and security supply risks to a certain extent. Therefore, to obtain the most objective trade redistribution strategy, this paper first constructs the nickel material trade network, identifies the core trading countries and the main trade relations of nickel material trade, and finds that the flow of nickel material mainly occurred between a few countries. On this basis, a trade redistribution model is constructed based on the maximum entropy principle. Taking Indonesia, the largest exporter, and the largest trade relationship (Indonesia exports to China) as examples, the nickel material redistribution between countries when different supply risks occur are simulated. The results can provide an important reference for national resource recovery after the risk of the nickel trade.