bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Communicative Effectiveness of Branding at Sports Press Conferences
Authors: Meirinhos Galvão , Mendes Tiago , Rêgo Reiville , Oliveira Márcio , Rodrigues Margarida , Silva Rui
Published: May 2022

This scientific work studies brand placement in the press conferences of soccer coaches and evaluates their communicative effectiveness through the measurement of their cognitive and affective effects on the viewers. In this research, we established the following objectives: (1) to examine the characteristics of the practice of brand placement in football press conferences: the diffusion times of brands, space occupied on the screen, and categories of brands placed; (2) to evaluate the behaviour of the human eye when viewing press conferences, in terms of continuous movements (saccades) and fixations (fixations) on brands; (3) to gauge the spontaneous and assisted recall of brands by subjects; (4) to verify the correlation between the persistence of visual fixations and recall/recognition; (5) to investigate the changes in subjects’ attitudes towards brands viewed in the experimental context. An exploratory observation was made that enabled a more in-depth knowledge and implementation of brand placement at sports conferences. For the experimental observation, a 2 × 2 factorial design of independent groups with total randomization was defined in order to perceive the influence of the variables “time” and “quantity” on the communicative effectiveness of the placed tags. In order to collect the data, a combination of several tested and validated tools was used, namely the screen division grid in surface units, as advocated by Bravo (1995); the technology of eye-tracking as an instrument for the recognition of the ocular movements of subjects in the observation space; surveys tested for cognitive gauging; and a semantic differential scale to assess attitudes toward the brand. The results indicate that the subjects recall in a spontaneous and suggested way the brands placed at the press conferences and develop positive attitudes about them. The recall is influenced by the diffusion time of the stimulus, and above all, the type of placement on the screen is decisive. It was not found that the brands to which subjects develop more positive attitudes were the most remembered. Finally, the face of the soccer coach is the main focus of attention of the subjects, and the areas surrounding this interlocutor are the ones that arouse the most interest in terms of the placement of brands.
Evaluation of Residual Lateral Capacities of Impact-Damaged Reinforced Concrete Members
Authors: Ye Jiabin , Wang Yingtao , Cai Jian , Chen Qingjun , He An
Published: May 2022

To study the residual lateral capacity of reinforced concrete (RC) columns after being subjected to static and horizontal impact action, static and horizontal impact tests of a total of sixteen RC columns were conducted. The variables considered in the tests included the shear-span ratio, the impact weight and the velocity. The experimental results, including the impact force, the deflection and the strain, as well as the cracking pattern and the failure mode, were discussed. Compared with the load–deflection curves under static and impact loading, it can be found that the inertial effect plays a significant part in the dynamic behaviour of the RC columns. Subsequently, static tests of six specimens with slight impact damage were carried out to obtain their residual performance. Based on the Park–Ang damage model that is widely used for assessing the post-seismic performance of RC members, an evaluation method for the structural residual capacity of RC columns after being subjected to impact loading was developed, with its accuracy confirmed by the experimental results.
A Novel Data Acquisition System for Obtaining Thermal Parameters of Building Envelopes
Authors: Mobaraki Behnam , Komarizadehasl Seyedmilad , Castilla Pascual Francisco Javier , Lozano-Galant José Antonio , Porras Soriano Rocio
Published: May 2022

Owing to the high energy consumption in the building sector, appraising the thermal performance of building envelopes is an increasing concern. Recently, a few in situ methodologies to diagnose the thermal parameters of buildings have been considered. However, because of their limitations such as low accuracy, limited number of measurements, and the high cost of monitoring devices, researchers are seeking a new alternative. In this study, a novel hyper-efficient Arduino transmittance-meter was introduced to overcome these limitations and determine the thermal parameters of building envelopes. Unlike conventional methodologies, the proposed transmittance-meter is based on synchronized measurements of different parameters necessary to estimate the transmittance parameter. To verify the applicability of the transmittance-meter, an experimental study was conducted wherein a temperature-controlled box model was thermally monitored, and the outputs of the transmittance-meter employed were compared with those captured by a commercial device. The results revealed a high level of reduction in cost and a low range of difference compared with the latter, thereby validating the applicability of the proposed thermal monitoring system.
The Structural Use of Recycled Aggregate Concrete for Renovation of Massive External Walls of Czech Fortification
Authors: Pavlu Tereza , Pazderka Jiří , Fořtová Kristina , Řepka Jakub , Mariaková Diana , Vlach Tomáš
Published: May 2022

The use of recycled aggregate concrete is mainly negatively affected by its poorer mechanical and long-term properties. However, there are few structural applications for which recycled aggregates can be used. In this case study, the possibility of use as massive external reinforcement wall is verified. For this structural application, the most important characteristics are freeze–thaw resistance, and carbonation resistance and then the mechanical properties such as compressive strength. Durability characteristics of the materials have been tested and improved in the study. The mechanical properties and durability of recycled aggregated concrete have been verified and crystalline mixture has been used to improve durability. The specific structural application of the massive external reinforcement wall is for the renovation of the Czech WW2 concrete fortification, which is one of the most important cultural heritages of the Czech Republic of the 20th century. However, these buildings have not yet been professionally rebuilt, but this research project aims to change this trend. The thickness of the bunker wall is between 0.5 and 3.5 m (depending on the type of bunker) which leads to a huge amount of concrete and primary resources consumption; however, the security function is not necessary today, so the reconstruction could be provided by recycled aggregate concrete. The results showed a positive effect of the crystalline mixture on the essential properties of recycled aggregate concrete. Recycled aggregate concrete with a complete replacement of aggregate by recycled concrete or masonry aggregate is possible to use for the reconstruction of the Czech WW2 concrete fortification and save natural aggregate as a primary resource.
Selecting Key Drivers for a Successful Lean Construction Implementation Using Simos’ and WSM: The Case of Egypt
Authors: Meshref Ahmed Nouh , Elkasaby Elsayed Abdelfattah Ahmed , Ibrahim Abdelazim
Published: May 2022

Despite the use of numerous new and advanced technologies in construction projects, the industry’s efficiency remains low. This business has faced significant challenges for a long time, such as non-value-added activities, also known as waste. Lean construction (L.C.) is one method for improving the situation by reducing waste and increasing value for the client. This study provides an in-depth literature review to provide a comprehensive list of all critical drivers and groups all these drivers into one research paper in order to determine the importance (weights) of these drivers and their relative importance, and to propose an innovative methodology for ranking them using Simos’ approach. Seven construction project case studies were proposed. Their lean status was assessed, the key-list was verified using a Weighted-Sum Model as a multi-criteria decision-making technique to rank them, the best one in terms of lean implementation was found. Subsequently, a sensitivity analysis was conducted to determine the most critical criterion for the key list. The following are some of the study’s main findings: 18 key drivers were identified and ranked, a clear definition of the client’s requirements was the most global weight between factors, and the case studies demonstrated that more than 60% of the lean drivers are implemented in Egypt. Day-to-day observation and standardized work were the top two most widely used lean practices in Egypt.
Recent Advances in the Synthesis of Five-Membered Cyclic Carbonates and Carbamates from Allylic or Propargylic Substrates and CO2
Authors: Vranješević Filip , Kolympadi Markovic Maria , Matulja Dario , Ambrožić Gabriela , Sordo José Ángel , Laclef Sylvain , Vrček Valerije , Marković Dean
Published: May 2022

The organic carbamates and carbonates are highly desirable compounds that have found a wide range of applications in drug design, medicinal chemistry, material science, and the polymer industry. The development of new catalytic carbonate and carbamate forming reactions, which employ carbon dioxide as a cheap, green, abundant, and easily available reagent, would thus represent an ideal substitution for existing methods. In this review, the advancements in the catalytic conversion of allylic and propargylic alcohols and amines to corresponding five-membered cyclic carbonates and carbamates are summarized. Both the metal- and the organocatalyzed methods are reviewed, as well as the proposed mechanisms and key intermediates of the illustrated carbonate and carbamate forming reactions.
SnO2/UV/H2O2 and TiO2/UV/H2O2 Efficiency for the Degradation of Reactive Yellow 160A: By-Product Distribution, Cytotoxicity and Mutagenicity Evaluation
Authors: Kousar Tasneem , Bokhari Tanveer Hussain , Altaf Awais , Haq Atta ul , Muneer Majid , Farhat Lamia Ben , Alwadai Norah , Alfryyan Nada , Jilani Muhammad Idrees , Iqbal Munawar , Khan Muhammad I. , Khosa Muhammad Kaleem
Published: May 2022

Advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) have emerged as a promising approach for the removal of organic dyes from effluents. Different AOPs were employed for the degradation of Reactive Yellow 160A (RY-160A) dye, i.e., SnO2/UV/H2O2 and TiO2/UV/H2O2. In the case of UV treatment, maximum degradation of 28% was observed, while UV/H2O2 furnished 77.78% degradation, and UV/H2O2/TiO2 degraded the RY-160A dye up to 90.40% (RY-160A 30 mg/L, 0.8 mL of H2O2). The dye degradation was 82.66% in the case of UV/H2O2/SnO2 at pH 3. FTIR and LC-MS analyses were performed in order to monitor the degradation by-products. The cytotoxicity and mutagenicity of RY-160A dye were evaluated by hemolytic and Ames (TA98 and TA100 strains) assays. It was observed that the RY-160A dye solution was toxic before treatment, and toxicity was reduced significantly after treatment. Results indicated that UV/H2O2/TiO2 is more efficient at degrading RY-160A versus other AOPs, which have potential application for the remediation of dyes in textile effluents.
Restoration of BDNF, DARPP32, and D2R Expression Following Intravenous Infusion of Human Immature Dental Pulp Stem Cells in Huntington’s Disease 3-NP Rat Model
Authors: Wenceslau Cristiane Valverde , de Souza Dener Madeiro , Mambelli-Lisboa Nicole Caroline , Ynoue Leandro Hideki , Araldi Rodrigo Pinheiro , da Silva Joyce Macedo , Pagani Eduardo , Haddad Monica Santoro , Kerkis Irina
Published: May 2022

Huntington’s disease (HD) is a neurodegenerative inherited genetic disorder, which leads to the onset of motor, neuropsychiatric and cognitive disturbances. HD is characterized by the loss of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic medium spiny neurons (MSNs). To date, there is no treatment for HD. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) provide a substantial therapeutic opportunity for the HD treatment. Herein, we investigated the therapeutic potential of human immature dental pulp stem cells (hIDPSC), a special type of MSC originated from the neural crest, for HD treatment. Two different doses of hIDPSC were intravenously administrated in a subacute 3-nitropropionic acid (3NP)-induced rat model. We demonstrated hIDPSC homing in the striatum, cortex and subventricular zone using specific markers for human cells. Thirty days after hIDPSC administration, the cells found in the brain are still express hallmarks of undifferentiated MSC. Immunohistochemistry quantities analysis revealed a significant increase in the number of BDNF, DARPP32 and D2R positive stained cells in the striatum and cortex in the groups that received hIDPSC. The differences were more expressive in animals that received only one administration of hIDPSC. Altogether, these data suggest that the intravenous administration of hIDPSCs can restore the BDNF, DARPP32 and D2R expression, promoting neuroprotection and neurogenesis.
Revisiting the Old Data of Heat Shock Protein 27 Expression in Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Enigmatic HSP27, More Than Heat Shock
Authors: Zheng Shutao , Liang Yan , Li Lu , Tan Yiyi , Liu Qing , Liu Tao , Lu Xiaomei
Published: May 2022

Initially discovered to be induced by heat shock, heat shock protein 27 (HSP27, also called HSPB1), a member of the small HSP family, can help cells better withstand or avoid heat shock damage. After years of studies, HSP27 was gradually found to be extensively engaged in various physiological or pathophysiological activities. Herein, revisiting the previously published data concerning HSP27, we conducted a critical review of the literature regarding its role in squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) from the perspective of clinicopathological and prognostic significance, excluding studies conducted on adenocarcinoma, which is very different from SCC, to understand the enigmatic role of HSP27 in the tumorigenesis of SCC, including normal mucosa, dysplasia, intraepithelial neoplasm, carcinoma in situ and invasive SCC.
The Plasmodium falciparum CCCH Zinc Finger Protein ZNF4 Plays an Important Role in Gametocyte Exflagellation through the Regulation of Male Enriched Transcripts
Authors: Hanhsen Borja , Farrukh Afia , Pradel Gabriele , Ngwa Che Julius
Published: May 2022

CCCH zinc finger proteins (ZFPs) function mainly as RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) and play a central role in the mRNA metabolism. Over twenty seven CCCH-ZFPs are encoded in the genome of the human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum, the causative agent of malaria tropica. However, little is known about their functions. In this study, we characterize one member of the PfCCCH-ZFP named ZNF4. We show that ZNF4 is highly expressed in mature gametocytes, where it predominantly localizes to the cytoplasm. Targeted gene disruption of ZNF4 showed no significant effect in asexual blood stage replication and gametocyte development while male gametocyte exflagellation was significantly impaired, leading to reduced malaria transmission in the mosquito. Comparative transcriptomics between wildtype (WT) and the ZNF4-deficient line (ZNF4-KO) demonstrated the deregulation of about 473 genes (274 upregulated and 199 downregulated) in mature gametocytes. Most of the downregulated genes show peak expression in mature gametocyte with male enriched genes associated to the axonemal dynein complex formation, and cell projection organization is highly affected, pointing to the phenotype in male gametocyte exflagellation. Upregulated genes are associated to ATP synthesis. Our combined data therefore indicate that ZNF4 is a CCCH zinc finger protein which plays an important role in male gametocyte exflagellation through the regulation of male gametocyte-enriched genes.
miR-18a Mediates Immune Evasion in ER-Positive Breast Cancer through Wnt Signaling
Authors: Nair Madhumathy G. , D Apoorva , M Chandrakala , VP Snijesh , Patil Sharada , CE Anupama , Mukherjee Geetashree , Kumar Rekha V. , Prabhu Jyothi S. , TS Sridhar
Published: May 2022

ER-positive (ER+) breast cancer is considered immunologically ‘silent’ with fewer tumor-infiltrating immune cells. We have previously demonstrated the role of miR-18a in mediating invasion and poor prognosis in ER+ breast cancer by activation of the Wnt signaling pathway. Here, we explored the immune-modulatory functions of high levels of miR-18a in these tumors. A microarray-based gene expression analysis performed in miR-18a over-expressed ER+ breast cancer cell lines demonstrated dysregulation and suppression of immune-related pathways. Stratification of the ER+ tumor samples by miR-18a levels in the TCGA and METABRIC cohort and immune cell identification performed using CIBERSORT and Immune CellAI algorithms revealed a higher proportion of T-regulatory cells (p < 0.001) and a higher CD4/CD8 ratio (p < 0.01). miR-18a over-expressed MCF7 co-cultured with THP-1 showed decreased antigen presentation abilities and increased invasiveness and survival. They also promoted the differentiation of pro-tumorigenic M2 macrophages. Inhibition of the Wnt pathway in miR-18a over-expressed cells brought about the restoration of TAP-1, a protein critical for antigen presentation. Examination of tumor specimens from our case series showed that miR-18a high ER+ tumors had a dense lymphocyte infiltrate when compared to miR-18a low tumors but expressed a higher CD4/CD8 ratio and the M2 macrophage marker CD206, along with the invasive marker MMP9. We report for the first time an association between miR-18a-mediated Wnt signaling and stromal immune modulation in ER+ tumors. Our results highlight the possibility of formulating specific Wnt pathway inhibitors that may be used in combination with immune checkpoint blockers (ICB) for sensitizing ‘immune-cold’ ER+ tumors to immunotherapy.
Interleukin-1 and Nuclear Factor Kappa B Signaling Promote Breast Cancer Progression and Treatment Resistance
Authors: Diep Sydney , Maddukuri Mahita , Yamauchi Stephanie , Geshow Ganamee , Delk Nikki A.
Published: May 2022

While meant for wound healing and immunity in response to injury and infection, inflammatory signaling is usurped by cancerous tumors to promote disease progression, including treatment resistance. The interleukin-1 (IL-1) inflammatory cytokine family functions in wound healing and innate and adaptive immunity. Two major, closely related IL-1 family members, IL-1α and IL-1β, promote tumorigenic phenotypes and contribute to treatment resistance in cancer. IL-1 signaling converges on transactivation of the Nuclear Factor Kappa B (NF-κB) and Activator protein 1 (AP-1) transcription factors. NF-κB and AP-1 signaling are also activated by the inflammatory cytokine Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha (TNFα) and microbe-sensing Toll-Like Receptors (TLRs). As reviewed elsewhere, IL-1, TNFα, and TLR can promote cancer progression through NF-κB or AP-1. In this review, we focus on what is known about the role of IL-1α and IL-1β in breast cancer (BCa) progression and therapeutic resistance, and state evidence for the role of NF-κB in mediating IL-1-induced BCa progression and therapeutic resistance. We will present evidence that IL-1 promotes BCa cell proliferation, BCa stem cell expansion, angiogenesis, and metastasis. IL-1 also regulates intracellular signaling and BCa cell hormone receptor expression in a manner that confers a growth advantage to the tumor cells and allows BCa cells to evade therapy. As such, the IL-1 receptor antagonist, anakinra, is in clinical trials to treat BCa and multiple other cancer types. This article presents a review of the literature from the 1990s to the present, outlining the evidence supporting a role for IL-1 and IL-1-NF-κB signaling in BCa progression.
Hepatic Hedgehog Signaling Participates in the Crosstalk between Liver and Adipose Tissue in Mice by Regulating FGF21
Authors: Ott Fritzi , Körner Christiane , Werner Kim , Gericke Martin , Liebscher Ines , Lobsien Donald , Radrezza Silvia , Shevchenko Andrej , Hofmann Ute , Kratzsch Jürgen , Gebhardt Rolf , Berg Thomas , Matz-Soja Madlen
Published: May 2022

The Hedgehog signaling pathway regulates many processes during embryogenesis and the homeostasis of adult organs. Recent data suggest that central metabolic processes and signaling cascades in the liver are controlled by the Hedgehog pathway and that changes in hepatic Hedgehog activity also affect peripheral tissues, such as the reproductive organs in females. Here, we show that hepatocyte-specific deletion of the Hedgehog pathway is associated with the dramatic expansion of adipose tissue in mice, the overall phenotype of which does not correspond to the classical outcome of insulin resistance-associated diabetes type 2 obesity. Rather, we show that alterations in the Hedgehog signaling pathway in the liver lead to a metabolic phenotype that is resembling metabolically healthy obesity. Mechanistically, we identified an indirect influence on the hepatic secretion of the fibroblast growth factor 21, which is regulated by a series of signaling cascades that are directly transcriptionally linked to the activity of the Hedgehog transcription factor GLI1. The results of this study impressively show that the metabolic balance of the entire organism is maintained via the activity of morphogenic signaling pathways, such as the Hedgehog cascade. Obviously, several pathways are orchestrated to facilitate liver metabolic status to peripheral organs, such as adipose tissue.
COVID-19-Related Anxiety Symptoms among Quarantined Adolescents and Its Impact on Sleep Pattern Changes and Somatic Symptoms
Authors: Gendler Yulia , Blau Ayala
Published: May 2022

Background: Home-quarantine due to COVID-19 may have negative psychological effects on vulnerable sub-groups such as children and adolescents. We aimed to explore the prevalence of anxiety among adolescents who were in home-quarantine and its impact on onset of sleep disturbance and somatic symptoms, and on the level of agreement between adolescent and parent perceptions. Methods: Five hundred adolescents (ages 10–17) and 500 parents participated in the study. Adolescents filled out PROMIS Anxiety, PROMIS Sleep Disturbance, and PHQ-15 Physical-Symptom forms, while their parents completed proxy questionnaires containing the same domains. Results: 38% of the adolescents reported experiencing anxiety during home-quarantine period, 29% suffered from sleep disturbance, and 48% reported somatic symptoms. Addition of one day in home-quarantine was significantly associated with sleep disturbance (OR = 3.78, 95%CI: 1.09–8.45) and somatic symptoms (OR = 1.80, 95%CI: 1.01–3.08); female gender was associated with increased risk for somatic symptoms (OR = 2.15, 95%CI: 1.07–4.55); poor agreement in levels of anxiety, sleep disturbance and somatic symptoms was found between adolescent and parent reports (ICCs of 0.197–0.262). Discussion: Total isolation from household members during home-quarantine may cause anxiety, sleep disturbance, and somatization among adolescents. Achieving the appropriate balance between infection control and mitigation of the potential adverse psychological effect of home-quarantine among children and adolescents should be immediate priorities for policymakers.
Impact of Parental Primary Spoken Language on Postoperative Pain Management in Children, a Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Shaw Robert E. , Staffa Steven J. , Nasr Viviane G. , Tung Cynthia
Published: May 2022

Background: Healthcare providers encounter varying languages every day in patient care. The goal of this study was to examine whether a difference exists in pain scoring and treatment amongst pediatric patients whose families’ primary language was not English. We hypothesized that patients of both Arabic-speaking (AS) and Spanish-speaking (SS) backgrounds received higher pain scores and higher daily opioid equivalents (OEs) postoperatively compared to English-speaking (ES) patients. Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study of patients undergoing surgery for treatment of various esophageal and airway disorders from 2014 to 2019. Records were queried for patients undergoing thoracotomies for treatment of esophageal and airway disorders. Analysis was focused on the three most common languages in this selected population: English, Arabic, and Spanish. Propensity score matching was utilized for comparisons of pain scores between AS, SS, and ES patient groups. Primary outcomes were opioid equivalents (OEs) and pain scores postoperatively. Multivariable median regression analysis was used to perform an adjusted comparison of pain scores as well as OEs. Results: A total of 610 patient encounters were included in our analysis. In propensity matched analysis, there were no significant differences in OEs between all groups postoperatively. However, statistically significant higher pain scores were reported in the ES group matched AS groups. Conclusions: Language differences did not lead to difference in pain assessment and treatment.
Toothbrushing and Oral Care Activities of Autistic and Non-Autistic Latino Children
Authors: Floríndez Lucía I. , Como Dominique H. , Floríndez Daniella C. , Floríndez Francesca M. , Law Evelyn , Polido Jose C. , Cermak Sharon A.
Published: May 2022

Background: Oral care activities, e.g., toothbrushing, are habitual occupations often considered routine. However, for autistic children, performing these routine dental practices can be challenging due to the child’s sensory sensitivities, unique executive function, and the complicated way in which autistic children conceptualize structure and habits. Limited research exists exploring the nuances of oral care routines in the autistic population, and more knowledge is needed to support targeted education interventions to improve oral care and address health inequities. The purpose of this study was to examine videos of oral care routines in the home to understand how oral care activities, such as toothbrushing, were performed by autistic and non-autistic Latino/a children. Methods: Parents/caregivers from eighteen Latino/a families with children between 6 and 12 years old (n = 10 autistic children and n = 8 non-autistic children) video recorded their child’s oral care routines for three days. The research team blindly coded and analyzed these videos using an oral care observation template to understand how these activities were uniquely performed by the children. Results: Eighty-five oral care videos were analyzed for this study. In addition to noting areas of oral care that can be improved, which included length of brushing and using the correct brushing technique, we identified two themes related to the differences between oral care practices in the autistic and non-autistic children: parent involvement and modifications. Conclusions: Qualitative findings show that parental involvement was documented especially in the case of autistic children, and that two types of modifications, habitual and sensory, were observed that demonstrated parents being aware of the needs of their autistic child and modifying the oral care activity to meet those needs. By synthesizing observations from the oral care videos into suggestions for practitioners working with families, we hope to supplement knowledge about effective oral care practices for autistic and non-autistic Latino/a children, thereby improving overall oral health and reducing oral health inequities in this population.
New Insight into Drugs to Alleviate Atopic March via Network Pharmacology-Based Analysis
Authors: Oh Ki-Kwang , Adnan Md. , Cho Dong-Ha
Published: May 2022

In the present study, a subject of atopic dermatitis (AD) is exposed progressively to allergic rhinitis (AR) and asthma (AS), which is defined as atopic march (AM). However, both the targets and compounds against AM are still largely unknown. Hence, we investigated the overlapping targets related directly to the occurrence and development of AD, AR, and AS through public databases (DisGeNET, and OMIM). The final overlapping targets were considered as key targets of AM, which were visualized by a Venn diagram. The protein–protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed using R package software. We retrieved the association between targets and ligands via scientific journals, and the ligands were filtered by physicochemical properties. Lastly, we performed a molecular docking test (MDT) to identify the significant ligand on each target. A total of 229 overlapping targets were considered as AM causal elements, and 210 out of them were interconnected with each other. We adopted 65 targets representing the top 30% highest in degree centrality among 210 targets. Then, we obtained 20 targets representing the top 30% greatest in betweenness centrality among 65 targets. The network analysis unveiled key targets against AM, and the MDT confirmed the affinity between significant compounds and targets. In this study, we described the significance of the eight uppermost targets (CCL2, CTLA4, CXCL8, ICAM1, IL10, IL17A, IL1B, and IL2) and eight ligands (Bindarit, CTLA-4 inhibitor, Danirixin, A-205804, AX-24 HCl, Y-320, T-5224, and Apilimod) against AM, providing a scientific basis for further experiments.
Tribological Behaviors of Polycrystalline Cubic Boron Nitride Sliding against Bearing Steel in Vacuum Conditions
Authors: Yang Fan , Wu Zhe , Meng Dezhong , Qin Wenbo , She Dingshun
Published: May 2022

In order to understand the surface and interface conditions of polycrystalline cubic boron nitride (PcBN) sliding against bearing steel in vacuum environments, the effects of different loads on the tribological behaviors of PcBN and bearing steel AISI 52100 were studied deeply in a vacuum tribometer. Furthermore, the wear tracks of PcBN and the wear scars of AISI 52100 were characterized by scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The results show that the stable coefficient of friction (CoF) of the tribopair experiences a decrease first and then an increase with the increase in loads from 2 N to 15 N. The adhesive layer increases with the increase in loads, and the formation of adhesive layer contributes to the change of CoF and wear rate of counterpart balls. The adhesive layer is formed due to the combination of high contact stress and high temperature. Meanwhile, the exfoliated cubic boron nitride grains are embedded into the adhesive layer as abrasive grains, resulting in abrasive wear. Thus, the main wear mechanisms are adhesive wear and abrasive wear.
A Survey of the Role of Environmental Education in Biodiversity Conservation in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana
Authors: Eshun Fatima , Wotorchie Richard Kwasi , Buahing Alfred Aninkorah , Harrison-Afful Ann Afua , Atiatorme Wonder Kofi , Amedzake Gloria , Adofo-Yeboah Yaw , Mante Vicentia
Published: May 2022

Biodiversity in all its forms has come under threat. The rate of biodiversity loss has attracted global attention, and most governments are trying to put measures into place to reduce the rate of loss. One way to ensure that people are conscious of biodiversity conservation is through education. However, studies on creating awareness for biodiversity conservation have received less attention in the literature. To address this knowledge gap, this study used questionnaires to investigate the role of education in biodiversity conservation in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana. The study found that environmental education, particularly an awareness of biodiversity conservation, is critical for conserving biodiversity. However, people’s knowledge of biodiversity conservation is too weak or inadequate to motivate them to incorporate biodiversity conservation practices into their daily activities. Furthermore, understanding the importance of biodiversity conservation comes with an increase in age. Increasing education on biodiversity conservation at an early age can help people become more aware of biodiversity conservation as they age, and they can incorporate it into their daily activities to reduce biodiversity loss. The study calls for a revision of the environmental education syllabus at various levels, particularly the basic and SHS levels, including more practical topics to help people change their attitudes and perceptions and incorporate biodiversity into their daily activities.
Physicochemical Properties of Cellulose Ethers
Authors: McMullen Roger L. , Ozkan Seher , Gillece Timothy
Published: May 2022

Cellulose ethers are naturally derived ingredients that are commonly used in personal care products as rheology modifiers, film formers, stabilizers, and sensorial agents. In this work, we investigated the physicochemical properties of various grades of hydroxyethylcellulose (HEC), hydroxypropylcellulose (HPC), hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC), methylcellulose (MC), and sodium carboxymethylcellulose (CMC). In addition, we also studied the influence of hydrophobic modification on the structure of HEC by carrying out experiments with cetyl hydroxyethylcellulose (HMHEC). Rheological, friction coefficient, dynamic vapor sorption (DVS), surface tension analysis, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) data were generated for the cellulose ethers in order to obtain information about their viscosity, lubricity, moisture absorption, solubility in the bulk solution phase, physical properties, and thermal degradation profile, respectively.
Heating Performance of Cementitious Composites with Carbon-Based Nanomaterials
Authors: Lee Heeyoung , Park Sohyeon , Kim Donghwi , Chung Wonseok
Published: May 2022

Active research has been conducted in recent years on heating construction materials using nanotechnology to solve the problem of black ice, which is often the cause of frequent traffic accidents during winter. To determine the optimal heating construction material, this study analyzed the heating performance of carbon-based nanomaterials, such as multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), conductive carbon black (CB), and graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs). Heating and electrical resistance experiments were performed based on the parameters of the selected nanomaterial, concentrations, and curing days to analyze the heating efficiency. Results showed that compared with OPC, the heating performances of GNP, CB, and MWCNT cementitious composites improved by 132, 171, and 224 times, respectively. Furthermore, the MWCNT cementitious composite exhibited excellent heating efficiency.
A Comparison of Two Methods Modeling High-Temperature Fatigue Crack Initiation in Ferrite–Pearlite Steel
Authors: Fang Zheng , Wang Lu , Wang Zheng , He Ying
Published: May 2022

High-temperature fatigue tests are carried out to investigate the fatigue crack initiation behavior of ferrite–pearlite steel. Two approaches to modeling fatigue crack initiation under high temperatures in ferrite–pearlite steel are developed and compared in this study. In the first approach, basal energy is introduced as the criterion for crack initiation. Various initial basal energy values are assigned to each potential location. The increments in basal energy after each cycle can be calculated. In the second approach, a crystal plasticity model is developed, combined with the cyclic hardening/softening effect and three fatigue indicator parameters (two of them are adopted from previous works and one is developed in this work). Results indicate that both approaches are capable of predicting the fatigue crack initiation location and the corresponding life. The first approach requires a lower computational cost but has many limitations, and the second approach is suitable for calculating mesoscale stress and strain distributions but with a higher computational cost.
Cardiovascular/Stroke Risk Assessment in Patients with Erectile Dysfunction—A Role of Carotid Wall Arterial Imaging and Plaque Tissue Characterization Using Artificial Intelligence Paradigm: A Narrative Review
Authors: Khanna Narendra N. , Maindarkar Mahesh , Saxena Ajit , Ahluwalia Puneet , Paul Sudip , Srivastava Saurabh K. , Cuadrado-Godia Elisa , Sharma Aditya , Omerzu Tomaz , Saba Luca , Mavrogeni Sophie , Turk Monika , Laird John R. , Kitas George D. , Fatemi Mostafa , Barqawi Al Baha , Miner Martin , Singh Inder M. , Johri Amer , Kalra Mannudeep M. , Agarwal Vikas , Paraskevas Kosmas I. , Teji Jagjit S. , Fouda Mostafa M. , Pareek Gyan , Suri Jasjit S.
Published: May 2022

Purpose: The role of erectile dysfunction (ED) has recently shown an association with the risk of stroke and coronary heart disease (CHD) via the atherosclerotic pathway. Cardiovascular disease (CVD)/stroke risk has been widely understood with the help of carotid artery disease (CTAD), a surrogate biomarker for CHD. The proposed study emphasizes artificial intelligence-based frameworks such as machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) that can accurately predict the severity of CVD/stroke risk using carotid wall arterial imaging in ED patients. Methods: Using the PRISMA model, 231 of the best studies were selected. The proposed study mainly consists of two components: (i) the pathophysiology of ED and its link with coronary artery disease (COAD) and CHD in the ED framework and (ii) the ultrasonic-image morphological changes in the carotid arterial walls by quantifying the wall parameters and the characterization of the wall tissue by adapting the ML/DL-based methods, both for the prediction of the severity of CVD risk. The proposed study analyzes the hypothesis that ML/DL can lead to an accurate and early diagnosis of the CVD/stroke risk in ED patients. Our finding suggests that the routine ED patient practice can be amended for ML/DL-based CVD/stroke risk assessment using carotid wall arterial imaging leading to fast, reliable, and accurate CVD/stroke risk stratification. Summary: We conclude that ML and DL methods are very powerful tools for the characterization of CVD/stroke in patients with varying ED conditions. We anticipate a rapid growth of these tools for early and better CVD/stroke risk management in ED patients.
Trends in Neonatal Ophthalmic Screening Methods
Authors: Hložánek Martin , Straňák Zbyněk , Terešková Zuzana , Mareš Jan , Krejčířová Inka , Česká Burdová Marie
Published: May 2022

Neonatal ophthalmic screening should lead to early diagnosis of ocular abnormalities to reduce long-term visual impairment in selected diseases. If a treatable pathology is diagnosed within a few days after the birth, adequate therapy may be indicated to facilitate the best possible conditions for further development of visual functions. Traditional neonatal ophthalmic screening uses the red reflex test (RRT). It tests the transmittance of the light through optical media towards the retina and the general disposition of the central part of the retina. However, RRT has weaknesses, especially in posterior segment affections. Wide-field digital imaging techniques have shown promising results in detecting anterior and posterior segment pathologies. Particular attention should be paid to telemedicine and artificial intelligence. These methods can improve the specificity and sensitivity of neonatal eye screening. Both are already highly advanced in diagnosing and monitoring of retinopathy of prematurity.
Diagnostic Accuracy of Point-of-Care HCV Viral Load Assays for HCV Diagnosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Tang Weiming , Tao Yusha , Fajardo Emmanuel , Reipold Elena Ivanova , Chou Roger , Tucker Joseph D. , Easterbrook Philippa
Published: May 2022

Despite the widespread availability of curative treatment with direct-acting antivirals, a significant proportion of people with HCV remain undiagnosed and untreated. New point-of-care (PoC) HCV RNA assays that can be used in clinical settings may help expand access to testing and treatment. This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic performance of PoC HCV viral load assays compared to laboratory-based testing. Methods: We searched three databases for studies published before May 2021 that evaluated PoC HCV RNA assays against a laboratory NAT reference standard (Prospero CRD42021269022). Random effects bivariate models were used to summarize the estimates. Stratified analyses were performed based on geographic region, population (PWID, etc.), and specimen type (serum/plasma or fingerstick; fresh or frozen). We used the GRADE approach to assess the certainty of the evidence. Results: A total of 25 studies were eligible. We evaluated five different commercially available viral load assays. The pooled sensitivity and specificity were 99% (95% CI: 98–99%) and 99% (95% CI: 99–100%), respectively. High sensitivity and specificity were observed across different assays, study settings (including LMICs and HICs), and populations. There was a small but statistically significant reduction in sensitivity for fingersticks compared to serum or plasma samples (98% vs. 100%, p < 0.05), but the specificity was similar between frozen and fresh samples. The evidence was rated as moderate-high certainty. Conclusions: PoC HCV viral load assays demonstrate excellent diagnostic performance in various settings and populations. The WHO now recommends using PoC HCV viral load assays as an additional strategy to promote access to confirmatory viral load testing and treatment.
A Comprehensive Performance Analysis of Transfer Learning Optimization in Visual Field Defect Classification
Authors: Abu Masyitah , Zahri Nik Adilah Hanin , Amir Amiza , Ismail Muhammad Izham , Yaakub Azhany , Anwar Said Amirul , Ahmad Muhammad Imran
Published: May 2022

Numerous research have demonstrated that Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) models are capable of classifying visual field (VF) defects with great accuracy. In this study, we evaluated the performance of different pre-trained models (VGG-Net, MobileNet, ResNet, and DenseNet) in classifying VF defects and produced a comprehensive comparative analysis to compare the performance of different CNN models before and after hyperparameter tuning and fine-tuning. Using 32 batch sizes, 50 epochs, and ADAM as the optimizer to optimize weight, bias, and learning rate, VGG-16 obtained the highest accuracy of 97.63 percent, according to experimental findings. Subsequently, Bayesian optimization was utilized to execute automated hyperparameter tuning and automated fine-tuning layers of the pre-trained models to determine the optimal hyperparameter and fine-tuning layer for classifying many VF defect with the highest accuracy. We found that the combination of different hyperparameters and fine-tuning of the pre-trained models significantly impact the performance of deep learning models for this classification task. In addition, we also discovered that the automated selection of optimal hyperparameters and fine-tuning by Bayesian has significantly enhanced the performance of the pre-trained models. The results observed the best performance for the DenseNet-121 model with a validation accuracy of 98.46% and a test accuracy of 99.57% for the tested datasets.
Baseline Cerebrospinal Fluid α-Synuclein in Parkinson’s Disease Is Associated with Disease Progression and Cognitive Decline
Authors: Emdina Anna , Hermann Peter , Varges Daniela , Nuhn Sabine , Goebel Stefan , Bunck Timothy , Maass Fabian , Schmitz Matthias , Llorens Franc , Kruse Niels , Lingor Paul , Mollenhauer Brit , Zerr Inga
Published: May 2022

Biomarkers are increasingly recognized as tools in the diagnosis and prognosis of neurodegenerative diseases. No fluid biomarker for Parkinson’s disease (PD) has been established to date, but α-synuclein, a major component of Lewy bodies in PD and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), has become a promising candidate. Here, we investigated CSF α-synuclein in patients with PD (n = 28), PDD (n = 8), and DLB (n = 5), applying an electrochemiluminescence immunoassay. Median values were non-significantly (p = 0.430) higher in patients with PDD and DLB (287 pg/mL) than in PD (236 pg/mL). A group of n = 36 primarily non-demented patients with PD and PDD was clinically followed for up to two years. A higher baseline α-synuclein was associated with increases in Hoehn and Yahr classifications (p = 0.019) and Beck Depression Inventory scores (p < 0.001) as well as worse performance in Trail Making Test A (p = 0.017), Trail Making Test B (p = 0.043), and the Boston Naming Test (p = 0.002) at follow-up. Surprisingly, higher levels were associated with a better performance in semantic verbal fluency tests (p = 0.046). In summary, CSF α-synuclein may be a potential prognostic marker for disease progression, affective symptoms, and executive cognitive function in PD. Larger-scaled studies have to validate these findings and the discordant results for single cognitive tests in this exploratory investigation.
Endoscopic Imaging Technology Today
Authors: Boese Axel , Wex Cora , Croner Roland , Liehr Uwe Bernd , Wendler Johann Jakob , Weigt Jochen , Walles Thorsten , Vorwerk Ulrich , Lohmann Christoph Hubertus , Friebe Michael , Illanes Alfredo
Published: May 2022

One of the most applied imaging methods in medicine is endoscopy. A highly specialized image modality has been developed since the first modern endoscope, the “Lichtleiter” of Bozzini was introduced in the early 19th century. Multiple medical disciplines use endoscopy for diagnostics or to visualize and support therapeutic procedures. Therefore, the shapes, functionalities, handling concepts, and the integrated and surrounding technology of endoscopic systems were adapted to meet these dedicated medical application requirements. This survey gives an overview of modern endoscopic technology’s state of the art. Therefore, the portfolio of several manufacturers with commercially available products on the market was screened and summarized. Additionally, some trends for upcoming developments were collected.
Fractional Stochastic Differential Equation Approach for Spreading of Diseases
Authors: Lima Leonardo dos Santos
Published: May 2022

The nonlinear fractional stochastic differential equation approach with Hurst parameter H within interval H∈(0,1) to study the time evolution of the number of those infected by the coronavirus in countries where the number of cases is large as Brazil is studied. The rises and falls of novel cases daily or the fluctuations in the official data are treated as a random term in the stochastic differential equation for the fractional Brownian motion. The projection of novel cases in the future is treated as quadratic mean deviation in the official data of novel cases daily since the beginning of the pandemic up to the present. Moreover, the rescaled range analysis (RS) is employed to determine the Hurst index for the time series of novel cases and some statistical tests are performed with the aim to determine the shape of the probability density of novel cases in the future.
User-Centric BIM-Based Framework for HVAC Root-Cause Detection
Authors: Alavi Hamidreza , Forcada Nuria
Published: May 2022

In the building operation phase, the Heating, Ventilation, and Air-Conditioning (HVAC) equipment are the main contributors to excessive energy consumption unless proper design and maintenance is carried out. Moreover, HVAC problems might have an impact on occupants’ discomfort in thermal comfort. Hence, the identification of the root cause of HVAC problems is imperative for facility managers to plan preventive and corrective maintenance actions. However, due to the complex interaction between various equipment and the lack of data integration among Facility Management (FM) systems, they fail to provide necessary information to identify the root cause of HVAC problems. Building Information Modelling (BIM) is a potential solution for maintenance activities to address the challenges of information reliability and interoperability. Therefore, this paper presents a novel conceptual model and user-centric framework to determine the causes of HVAC problems implemented in BIM for its visualization. CMMS and BMS data were integrated into BIM and utilized by the framework to analyze the root cause of HVAC problems. A case study in a university building was used to demonstrate the applicability of the approach. This framework assists the FM team to determine the most probable cause of an HVAC problem, reducing the time to detect equipment faults, and providing potential actions to solve them.