bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The VEGF/VEGFR Axis Revisited: Implications for Cancer Therapy
Authors: Mabeta Peace , Steenkamp Vanessa
Published: December 2022

The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)/vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR) axis is indispensable in the process of angiogenesis and has been implicated as a key driver of tumor vascularization. Consequently, several strategies that target VEGF and its cognate receptors, VEGFR-1 and VEGFR-2, have been designed to treat cancer. While therapies targeting full-length VEGF have resulted in an improvement in both overall survival and progression-free survival in various cancers, these benefits have been modest. In addition, the inhibition of VEGFRs is associated with undesirable off-target effects. Moreover, VEGF splice variants that modulate sprouting and non-sprouting angiogenesis have been identified in recent years. Cues within the tumor microenvironment determine the expression patterns of these variants. Noteworthy is that the mechanisms of action of these variants challenge the established norm of VEGF signaling. Furthermore, the aberrant expression of some of these variants has been observed in several cancers. Herein, developments in the understanding of the VEGF/VEGFR axis and the splice products of these molecules, as well as the environmental cues that regulate these variants are reviewed. Furthermore, strategies that incorporate the targeting of VEGF variants to enhance the effectiveness of antiangiogenic therapies in the clinical setting are discussed.
Explicit and Hybrid Solvent Models for Estimates of Parameters Relevant to the Reduction Potential of Ethylene Carbonate
Authors: Eilmes Andrzej , Kubisiak Piotr , Wróbel Piotr
Published: December 2022

Using ethylene carbonate as a sample solvent, we investigated two molecular parameters used to estimate the reduction potential of the solvent: electron affinity, and the energy of the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO). The results showed that the values of these parameters are inconsistent for a single ethylene carbonate molecule in vacuum calculations and in the continuous effective solvent. We performed a series of calculations employing explicit or hybrid (explicit/continuous) solvent models for aggregates of solvent molecules or solvated salt ions. In the hybrid solvent model, values of the two estimates extrapolated to an infinite system size converged to one common value, whereas the difference of 1 eV was calculated in the purely explicit solvent. The values of the gap between the highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) and the LUMO obtained in the hybrid model were significantly larger than those resulting from the explicit solvent calculations. We related these differences to the differences in frontier orbitals and changes of electron density obtained in the two solvent models. In the hybrid solvent model, the location of the additional electron in the reduced system usually corresponds to the LUMO orbital of the oxidized system. The presence of salt ions in the solvent affects the extrapolated values of the electron affinity and LUMO energy.
Synthesis of Hybrid Epoxy Methacrylate Resin Based on Diglycidyl Ethers and Coatings Preparation via Cationic and Free-Radical Photopolymerization
Authors: Bednarczyk Paulina , Irska Izabela , Gziut Konrad , Mozelewska Karolina , Ossowicz-Rupniewska Paula
Published: December 2022

A series of difunctional epoxy methacrylate resins (EAs) containing at least one epoxy and at least one methacrylate group were synthesized by means of an addition reaction between epoxy-terminated diglycidyl ethers and methacrylic acid. In order to investigate the impact of polymer architecture on the course of addition reactions and further coating properties, several different types of diglycidyl ethers, i.e., linear, containing aliphatic or aromatic rings, with a short or polymeric backbone, were employed in the synthesis. The carboxyl–epoxide addition esterification reactions have been found to, in a relatively straightforward manner, control the extent of acrylation depending on the substrate feed ratio and reaction time. The structure of obtained pre-polymers was evaluated by FT-IR and NMR methods. At the same time, the extent of addition reactions was validated via quantitative analysis, including non-volatile matter content (NV), acid value (PAVs), and epoxy equivalent value (EE) analysis. The modification was carried out in a manner likely to create a compound with one epoxy and one carbon–carbon pendant group. Hence, due to the presence of both functionalities, it is possible to crosslink compositions based on synthesized EAs via two distinct mechanisms: (i) cationic polymerization or (ii) free-radical polymerization. Synthesized epoxy methacrylate pre-polymers were further employed for use in formulate photocurable coating compositions by the cationic or radical process. Furthermore, the photopolymerization behavior and properties of cured coatings were explored regarding some structural factors and parameters. The investigated polymeric materials cure in a short time to obtain coatings with good properties, which is why they can be successfully used to produce protective and decorative coatings for many industries.
Anti-Inflammatory Effect of the Natural H2S-Donor Erucin in Vascular Endothelium
Authors: Ciccone Valerio , Piragine Eugenia , Gorica Era , Citi Valentina , Testai Lara , Pagnotta Eleonora , Matteo Roberto , Pecchioni Nicola , Montanaro Rosangela , Di Cesare Mannelli Lorenzo , Ghelardini Carla , Brancaleone Vincenzo , Morbidelli Lucia , Calderone Vincenzo , Martelli Alma
Published: December 2022

Vascular inflammation (VI) represents a pathological condition that progressively affects the integrity and functionality of the vascular wall, thus leading to endothelial dysfunction and the onset of several cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, the research of novel compounds able to prevent VI represents a compelling need. In this study, we tested erucin, the natural isothiocyanate H2S-donor derived from Eruca sativa Mill. (Brassicaceae), in an in vivo mouse model of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced peritonitis, where it significantly reduced the amount of emigrated CD11b positive neutrophils. We then evaluated the anti-inflammatory effects of erucin in LPS-challenged human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). The pre-incubation of erucin, before LPS treatment (1, 6, 24 h), significantly preserved cell viability and prevented the increase of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) levels. Moreover, erucin downregulated endothelial hyperpermeability and reduced the loss of vascular endothelial (VE)-Cadherin levels. In addition, erucin decreased vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM-1), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and microsomal prostaglandin E-synthase 1 (mPGES-1) expression. Of note, erucin induced eNOS phosphorylation and counteracted LPS-mediated NF-κB nuclear translocation, an effect that was partially abolished in the presence of the eNOS inhibitor L-NAME. Therefore, erucin can control endothelial function through biochemical and genomic positive effects against VI.
Glial Gap Junction Pathology in the Spinal Cord of the 5xFAD Mouse Model of Early-Onset Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Pechlivanidou Maria , Kousiappa Ioanna , Angeli Stella , Sargiannidou Irene , Koupparis Andreas M. , Papacostas Savvas S. , Kleopa Kleopas A.
Published: December 2022

Gap junctions (GJs) are specialized transmembrane channels assembled by two hemi-channels of six connexin (Cx) proteins that facilitate neuroglial crosstalk in the central nervous system (CNS). Previous studies confirmed the crucial role of glial GJs in neurodegenerative disorders with dementia or motor dysfunction including Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The aim of this study was to examine the alterations in astrocyte and related oligodendrocyte GJs in association with Aβ plaques in the spinal cord of the 5xFAD mouse model of AD. Our analysis revealed abundant Aβ plaque deposition, activated microglia, and astrogliosis in 12-month-old (12M) 5xFAD mice, with significant impairment of motor performance starting from 3-months (3M) of age. Additionally, 12M 5xFAD mice displayed increased immunoreactivity of astroglial Cx43 and Cx30 surrounding Aβ plaques and higher protein levels, indicating upregulated astrocyte-to-astrocyte GJ connectivity. In addition, they demonstrated increased numbers of mature CC1-positive and precursor oligodendrocytes (OPCs) with higher immunoreactivity of Cx47-positive GJs in individual cells. Moreover, total Cx47 protein levels were significantly elevated in 12M 5xFAD, reflecting increased oligodendrocyte-to-oligodendrocyte Cx47–Cx47 GJ connectivity. In contrast, we observed a marked reduction in Cx32 protein levels in 12M 5xFAD spinal cords compared with controls, while qRT-PCR analysis revealed a significant upregulation in Cx32 mRNA levels. Finally, myelin deficits were found focally in the areas occupied by Aβ plaques, whereas axons themselves remained preserved. Overall, our data provide novel insights into the altered glial GJ expression in the spinal cord of the 5xFAD model of AD and the implicated role of GJ pathology in neurodegeneration. Further investigation to understand the functional consequences of these extensive alterations in oligodendrocyte–astrocyte (O/A) GJ connectivity is warranted.
MicroRNA-200c Affects Milk Fat Synthesis by Targeting PANK3 in Ovine Mammary Epithelial Cells
Authors: Hao Zhiyun , Wang Jiqing , Luo Yuzhu , Hu Jiang , Liu Xiu , Li Shaobin , Li Mingna , Shi Bingang , Hu Liyan , Liu Yuan , Zhen Huimin
Published: December 2022

Milk fat is the foremost nutrient of milk and a vital indicator in evaluating milk quality. Accumulating evidence suggests that microRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in the synthesis of milk fat. The miR-200c is closely related to lipid metabolism, but little is known about its effect on the synthesis of milk fat in MECs of ewes. Herein, the effect of miR-200c on the proliferation of ovine mammary epithelial cells (MECs) and its target relationship with a predicted target gene were investigated. The regulatory effects of miR-200c on the expression of the target genes and the content of triglycerides in ovine MECs were further analyzed. The results revealed that the expression level of miR-200c was differentially expressed in both eight tissues selected during lactation and in mammary gland tissues at different physiological periods. Overexpression of miR-200c inhibited the viability and proliferation of ovine MECs, while inhibition of miR-200c increased cell viability and promoted the proliferation of ovine MECs. Target gene prediction results indicated that miR-200c would bind the 3′UTR region of pantothenate kinase 3 (PANK3). Overexpression of miR-200c reduced the luciferase activity of PANK3, while inhibition of miR-200c increased its luciferase activity. These findings illustrated that miR-200c could directly interact with the target site of the PANK3. It was further found that overexpression of miR-200c reduced the expression levels of PANK3 and, thus, accelerated the synthesis of triglycerides. In contrary, the inhibitor of miR-200c promoted the expression of PANK3 that, thus, inhibited the synthesis of triglycerides in ovine MECs. Together, these findings revealed that miR-200c promotes the triglycerides synthesis in ovine MECs via increasing the lipid synthesis related genes expression by targeting PANK3.
Neuroprotection and Neuroregeneration Strategies Using the rNAION Model: Theory, Histology, Problems, Results and Analytical Approaches
Authors: Bernstein Steven L. , Guo Yan , Mehrabian Zara , Miller Neil R.
Published: December 2022

Nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) is the most common cause of sudden optic nerve (ON)-related vision loss in humans. Study of this disease has been limited by the lack of available tissue and difficulties in evaluating both treatments and the window of effectiveness after symptom onset. The rodent nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy model (rNAION) closely resembles clinical NAION in its pathophysiological changes and physiological responses. The rNAION model enables analysis of the specific responses to sudden ischemic axonopathy and effectiveness of potential treatments. However, there are anatomic and genetic differences between human and rodent ON, and the inducing factors for the disease and the model are different. These variables can result in marked differences in lesion development between the two species, as well as in the possible responses to various treatments. These caveats are discussed in the current article, as well as some of the species-associated differences that may be related to ischemic lesion severity and responses.
CcMYB12 Positively Regulates Flavonoid Accumulation during Fruit Development in Carya cathayensis and Has a Role in Abiotic Stress Responses
Authors: Wang Yige , Ye Hongyu , Wang Ketao , Huang Chunying , Si Xiaolin , Wang Jianhua , Xu Yifan , Huang Youjun , Huang Jianqin , Li Yan
Published: December 2022

Flavonoid, an important secondary metabolite in plants, is involved in many biological processes. Its synthesis originates from the phenylpropane metabolic pathway, and it is catalyzed by a series of enzymes. The flavonoid biosynthetic pathway is regulated by many transcription factors, among which MYB transcription factors are thought to be key regulators. Hickory (Carya cathayensis) is an economic forest tree species belonging to the Juglandaceae family, and its fruit is rich in flavonoids. The transcriptome of exocarp and seed of hickory has previously been sequenced and analyzed by our team, revealing that CcMYB12 (CCA0691S0036) may be an important regulator of flavonoid synthesis. However, the specific regulatory role of CcMYB12 in hickory has not been clarified. Through a genome-wide analysis, a total of 153 R2R3-MYB genes were identified in hickory, classified into 23 subclasses, of which CcMYB12 was located in Subclass 7. The R2R3-MYBs showed a differential expression with the development of hickory exocarp and seed, indicating that these genes may regulate fruit development and metabolite accumulation. The phylogenetic analysis showed that CcMYB12 is a flavonol regulator, and its expression trend is the same as or opposite to that of flavonol synthesis-related genes. Moreover, CcMYB12 was found to be localized in the nucleus and have self-activation ability. The dual-luciferase reporter assay demonstrated that CcMYB12 strongly bonded to and activated the promoters of CcC4H, CcCHS, CcCHI, and CcF3H, which are key genes of the flavonoid synthesis pathway. Overexpression of CcMYB12 in Arabidopsis thaliana could increase the content of total flavonoids and the expression of related genes, including PAL, C4H, CHS, F3H, F3’H, ANS, and DFR, in the flavonoid synthesis pathway. These results reveal that CcMYB12 may directly regulate the expression of flavonoid-related genes and promote flavonoid synthesis in hickory fruit. Notably, the expression level of CcMYB12 in hickory seedlings was significantly boosted under NaCl and PEG treatments, while it was significantly downregulated under acid stress, suggesting that CcMYB12 may participate in the response to abiotic stresses. The results could provide a basis for further elucidating the regulation network of flavonoid biosynthesis and lay a foundation for developing new varieties of hickory with high flavonoid content.
Retinol-Loaded Poly(vinyl alcohol)-Based Hydrogels as Suitable Biomaterials with Antimicrobial Properties for the Proliferation of Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Elango Jeevithan , Zamora-Ledezma Camilo , Negrete-Bolagay Daniela , Aza Piedad N. De , Gómez-López Vicente M. , López-González Ivan , Belén Hernández Ana , De Val José Eduardo Maté Sánchez , Wu Wenhui
Published: December 2022

Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) hydrogels are well-known biomimetic 3D systems for mammalian cell cultures to mimic native tissues. Recently, several biomolecules were intended for use in PVA hydrogels to improve their biological properties. However, retinol, an important biomolecule, has not been combined with a PVA hydrogel for culturing bone marrow mesenchymal stem (BMMS) cells. Thus, for the first time, the effect of retinol on the physicochemical, antimicrobial, and cell proliferative properties of a PVA hydrogel was investigated. The ability of protein (3.15 nm) and mineral adsorption (4.8 mg/mL) of a PVA hydrogel was improved by 0.5 wt.% retinol. The antimicrobial effect of hydrogel was more significant in S. aureus (39.3 mm) than in E. coli (14.6 mm), and the effect was improved by increasing the retinol concentration. The BMMS cell proliferation was more upregulated in retinol-loaded PVA hydrogel than in the control at 7 days. We demonstrate that the respective in vitro degradation rate of retinol-loaded PVA hydrogels (RPH) (75–78% degradation) may promote both antibacterial and cellular proliferation. Interestingly, the incorporation of retinol did not affect the cell-loading capacity of PVA hydrogel. Accordingly, the fabricated PVA retinol hydrogel proved its compatibility in a stem cell culture and could be a potential biomaterial for tissue regeneration.
Building Information Modeling (BIM) Application for a Section of Bologna’s Red Tramway Line
Authors: Acerra Ennia Mariapaola , Busquet Gian Franco Daniel , Parente Marco , Marinelli Margherita , Vignali Valeria , Simone Andrea
Published: December 2022

New technologies such as the I-BIM (Infrastructure Building Information Modeling) are radically changing the infrastructure design and construction sector. In this study, the I-BIM approach has been used for the design of a portion of the future Bologna’s Red Tramway Line. Starting from the topographical survey of the area, a “federated” model was created, aggregating in a single digital environment all the models inherent to the individual disciplines involved. Interference analysis (Clash Detection) between the various disciplines was performed, subject to the preparation of a coordination matrix and the temporal simulation of the worksite phases (BIM 4D). The results have shown that the I-BIM approach represents a powerful tool for optimizing and validating infrastructure design, allowing users to see how the infrastructure integrates and fits into the real 3D environmental context.
[Hexaamminecobalt(III)] Dichloride Permanganate—Structural Features and Heat-Induced Transformations into (CoII,MnII)(CoIII,MnIII)2O4 Spinels
Authors: Bereczki Laura , Petruševski Vladimir M. , Franguelli Fernanda Paiva , Béres Kende Attila , Farkas Attila , Holló Berta Barta , Czégény Zsuzsanna , Szilágyi Imre Miklós , Kótai László
Published: December 2022

We synthesized and characterized (IR, Raman, UV, SXRD) hexaamminecobalt(III) dichloride permanganate, [Co(NH3)6]Cl2(MnO4) (compound 1) as the precursor of Co–Mn–spinel composites with atomic ratios of Co:Mn = 1:1 and 1:3. The 3D−hydrogen bond network includes N–HO–Mn and N–HCl interactions responsible for solid-phase redox reactions between the permanganate anions and ammonia ligands. The temperature-limited thermal decomposition of compound 1 under the temperature of boiling toluene (110 ∘C) resulted in the formation of (NH4)4Co2Mn6O12. which contains a todorokite-like manganese oxide network (MnII4MnIII2O1210−). The heat treatment products of compounds 1 and [Co(NH3)5Cl](MnO4)2 (2) synthesized previously at 500 ∘C were a cubic and a tetragonal spinel with Co1.5Mn1.5O4 and CoMn2O4 composition, respectively. The heating of the decomposition product of compounds 1 and 2 that formed under refluxing toluene (a mixture with an atomic ratio of Co:Mn = 1:1 and 1:2) and after aqueous leaching ((NH4)4Co2Mn6O12, 1:3 Co:Mn atomic ratio in both cases) at 500 ∘C resulted in tetragonal Co0.75Mn2.25O4 spinels. The Co1.5Mn1.5O4 prepared from compound 1 at 500 ∘C during the solid-phase decomposition catalyzes the degradation of Congo red with UV light. The decomposition rate of the dye was found to be nine times faster than in the presence of the tetragonal CoMn2O4 spinel prepared in the solid-phase decomposition of compound 2. The todorokite-like intermediate prepared from compound 1 under N2 at 115 ∘C resulted in a 54 times faster degradation of Congo red, which is a great deal faster than the same todorokite-like phase that formed from compound 2 under N2.
Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance Parametric Mapping Techniques for the Assessment of Chronic Coronary Syndromes
Authors: Bazmpani Maria Anna , Nikolaidou Chrysovalantou , Papanastasiou Christos A. , Ziakas Antonios , Karamitsos Theodoros D.
Published: December 2022

The term chronic coronary syndromes encompasses a variety of clinical presentations of coronary artery disease (CAD), ranging from stable angina due to epicardial coronary artery disease to microvascular coronary dysfunction. Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging has an established role in the diagnosis, prognostication and treatment planning of patients with CAD. Recent advances in parametric mapping CMR techniques have added value in the assessment of patients with chronic coronary syndromes, even without the need for gadolinium contrast administration. Furthermore, quantitative perfusion CMR techniques have enabled the non-invasive assessment of myocardial blood flow and myocardial perfusion reserve and can reliably identify multivessel coronary artery disease and microvascular dysfunction. This review summarizes the clinical applications and the prognostic value of the novel CMR parametric mapping techniques in the setting of chronic coronary syndromes and discusses their strengths, pitfalls and future directions.
Right Ventricular Septal Versus Apical Pacing: Long-Term Incidence of Heart Failure and Survival
Authors: Dias-Frias André , Costa Ricardo , Campinas Andreia , Alexandre André , Sá-Couto David , Sousa Maria João , Roque Carla , Vieira Pinheiro , Lagarto Vitor , Reis Hipólito , Torres Severo
Published: December 2022

The clinical benefits of right ventricular septal (RVS) pacing compared to those of right ventricular apical (RVA) pacing are still in debate. We aimed to compare the incidence of heart failure (HF) and all-cause mortality in patients submitted to RVS and RVA pacing during a longer follow-up. This a single-center, retrospective study analysis of consecutive patients submitted to pacemaker implantation. The primary outcome was defined as the occurrence of HF during follow-up. The secondary outcome was all-cause death. A total of 251 patients were included, 47 (18.7%) with RVS pacing. RVS pacing was associated to younger age, male gender, lower body mass index, ischemic heart disease, and atrial fibrillation. During a follow-up period of 5.2 years, the primary outcome occurred in 89 (37.1%) patients. RVS pacing was independently associated with a 3-fold lower risk of HF, after adjustment. The secondary outcome occurred in 83 (34.2%) patients, and pacemaker lead position was not a predictor. Fluoroscopy time and rate of complications (rarely life-threatening) were similar in both groups. Our study points to a potential clinical benefit of RVS positioning, with a 3.3-fold lower risk of HF, without accompanying increase in procedure complexity nor complication rate.
Sleep Characteristics and Cancer-Related Outcomes: An Umbrella Review of Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses of Observational Studies
Authors: Li Xiaoying , Huang Donghui , Liu Fanghua , Li Xinyu , Lv Jiale , Wu Qijun , Zhao Yuhong
Published: December 2022

Background: Sleep is closely related to various diseases. Several meta-analyses have provided evidence of sleep and cancer, and yet the credibility of this evidence has not been comprehensively quantified. Thus, we conducted an umbrella review to quantify the evidence for systematic reviews and meta-analyses of observational studies on sleep characteristics (sleep duration, sleep quality, napping, bedtime, and wake-up time) and cancer-related outcomes. Methods: PubMed, Web of Science (Core Collection), and Embase databases were searched from inception until 29 July 2022. Assessment of Multiple Systematic Reviews, version 1, was used to evaluate the methodological quality of each eligible systematic review or meta-analysis. For each association, the summary effect with a 95% confidence interval was evaluated by fixed and random effects models. The 95% prediction interval, heterogeneity, small-study effects, and excess significance bias were also evaluated. Evidence of the associations from systematic reviews and meta-analyses was ranked based on the established criteria of published literature as convincing, highly suggestive, suggestive, weak, or non-significant. Results: The umbrella review identified thirty meta-analyses on the aforementioned associations from six articles. The methodological quality of five articles was high or moderate. Suggestive evidence was found for associations between long sleep duration and a 21% increased risk of colorectal cancer, a 9% increased all-cancer mortality and a 65% increased mortality of lung cancer, and associations between short sleep duration and a 21% increased mortality of lung cancer. Additionally, the evidence of associations between short sleep duration and lung cancer mortality was upgraded to convincing, and between long sleep duration and lung cancer mortality was upgraded to highly suggestive, among the population reporting 24 h sleep duration. Conclusion: Abnormal sleep duration might be linked to several adverse cancer-related outcomes.
Hole Quality Observation in Single-Shot Drilling of CFRP/Al7075-T6 Composite Metal Stacks Using Customized Twist Drill Design
Authors: Joy Mathavan Jebaratnam , Hassan Muhammad Hafiz , Xu Jinyang , Franz Gérald
Published: December 2022

In the modern aircraft manufacturing industry, the use of fiber metal stack-up material plays an important role. During assembly, these stack-up materials need to be drilled, and single-shot drilling is the best option to avoid misalignments. This paper discusses hole quality in terms of hole edge defects and hole integrity with respect to tool geometry. In this study, tungsten carbide (WC) twist-type drills with various geometric features were fabricated, tested, and evaluated. Twenty custom twist drill bits with primary clearance angles ranging from 6° to 8°, chisel edge angles from 30° to 45°, and point angles from 130° to 140° were fabricated. The CFRP and Al 7075-T6 were stacked up, and a feed rate of 0.05 mm/rev and spindle speed of 2600 rev/min were used for all drilling experiments. The experimental array was constructed using response surface methodology (RSM) to design the experiments. The impact of factors and their importance on hole quality were investigated using analysis of variance (ANOVA). The study demonstrates that the primary clearance angle, followed by the chisel edge angle, is the most important factor determining hole quality. As a function of tool geometry, correlation models between exit delamination and burr height were developed. The findings suggested that, within the range of parameters examined, the proposed correlation models might be utilized to predict performance measures. For drilling CFRP/AL7075-T6 stack material in a single shot, the ideal twist drill geometry was determined to be a 45° chisel edge angle, 8° primary clearance angle, and 130° point angle. For optimum drill geometry, the discrepancy between the expected and actual experiment values was 0.11% for exit delamination and 9.72% for burr height. The findings of this research elucidate the relationship between tool geometry and hole quality in single-shot drilling of composite-metal stacks, and more specifically, they may serve as a useful, practical guide for single-shot drilling of CFRP/Al7075-T6 stack for the manufacture of aircraft.
Extrusion Additive Manufacturing of PEI Pellets
Authors: Fabrizio Matteo , Strano Matteo , Farioli Daniele , Giberti Hermes
Published: December 2022

The simplest, most cost-efficient, and most widespread Additive Manufacturing (AM) technology is Extrusion Additive Manufacturing (EAM). Usually, EAM is performed with filament feedstock, but using pellets instead of filaments yields many benefits, including significantly lower cost and a wider choice of materials. High-performance polymers offer high strength even when produced with AM technique, allowing to produce near-net-shape functional parts. The production of these materials in filament form is still limited and expensive; therefore, in this paper, the possibility of producing AM components with engineering polymers from pellets will be thoroughly investigated. In this work, the effectiveness of a specially designed AM machine for printing high-performance materials in pellet form was tested. The material chosen for the investigation is PEI 1000 which offers outstanding mechanical and thermal properties, giving the possibility to produce with EAM functional components. Sensitivity analyses have been carried out to define a process window in terms of thermal process parameters by observing different response variables. Using the process parameters in the specified range, the additive manufactured material has been mechanically tested, and its microstructure has been investigated, both in dried and undried conditions. Finally, a rapid tool for sheet metal forming has been produced.
Microplastics Dynamics in the Bathing Seawater Affected by the Ebb Tide in Zhanjiang Bay, China
Authors: Zhang Peng , Zhong Huifeng , Wang Shujia , Wei Shanshan , Jian Qiying , Zhang Jibiao
Published: December 2022

At present, microplastics (MPs) pollution has attracted people’s attention, and MPs in seawater have caused great harm to the marine environment. Taking Yugang Park Beach (YPB) in Zhanjiang Bay (ZJB) as the research object, we studied the spatial and temporal distribution, composition, and inventory of MPs in the bathing seawater affected by the ebb tide by filtering the bathing seawater with a 45 μm stainless steel sieve. The results showed that the average abundance of MPs in the bathing seawater was 201.3 ± 183.0 items·m−3, with the highest at mid-tide, followed by high and low tides. The size of MPs in the bathing seawater was mainly 1–2 mm, with most being white (23.5%) and green (29.8%) MPs, and the largest proportion being foam (27.5%) and fiber (29.5%). The main polymer types were polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), and cellulose (CE). Correlation analysis between MP abundance and their sizes showed that the abundance of 0.33–5 mm MPs was significantly and positively correlated with their sizes (p < 0.05). The average MP inventory was 3.2 × 106 items, with the largest at high tide, followed by mid and low tides. In conclusion, these results highlighted that tidal variations were the main factor causing the uneven distribution of MPs in the bathing seawater at YPB. This study provides theoretical support for future study of MP pollution in bathing waters, and the effect of tidal variations on MPs.
A Deep Learning Method for NLOS Error Mitigation in Coastal Scenes
Authors: Sun Chao , Xue Meiting , Zhao Nailiang , Zeng Yan , Yuan Junfeng , Zhang Jilin
Published: December 2022

With the widespread use of automatic identification systems (AISs), some ships use deceptive information or intentionally close their AISs to conceal their illegal activities or evade the supervision of maritime departments. Although radar measurements can be effectively utilized to evaluate the credibility of received AIS data, the propagation of non-line-of-sight (NLOS) signal conditions is an important factor that affects location accuracy. This study addresses the NLOS problem in a special geometric dilution of precision (GDOP) scenario on a coast and several base stations. We employed data augmentation and a deep residual shrinkage network in order to alleviate the adverse effects of NLOS errors. The results of our simulations demonstrate that the proposed method outperforms other range-based localization algorithms in a mixed LOS/NLOS environment. For a special GDOP scenario with four radars, our algorithm’s root-mean-square error (RMSE) was lower than 180 m.
Mechanical and Morphological Characterizations of Laminated Object Manufactured 3D Printed Biodegradable Poly(lactic)acid with Various Physical Configurations
Authors: Kumar Sudhir , Singh Inderjeet , Kumar Dinesh , Yahya Mohd Yazid , Rahimian Koloor Seyed Saeid
Published: December 2022

Mechanical behavior of 3D-printed poly(lactic) acid material is an open topic for research on the reliability assessment of structures in marine and offshore industries. This article presents the mechanical and morphological properties of poly(lactic) acid specimens using the laminated object manufacturing technique. The effect was experimentally investigated on 3D-printed discs joined together to make a laminated test specimen. The specimen was prepared and tested under different infill patterns, viz. linear, triangular, and honeycomb structure, 50–90% infill density, and under varying disc thickness ranging from 3.4–5.6 mm. The maximum compressive strength of 42.47 MPa was attained for the laminated specimen with 70% infill, honeycomb pattern, and disc thickness of 3.4 mm (six discs), whereas the linear infill pattern has shown the least compressive performance of 22.40 MPa. The result of the study suggested that the honeycomb infill pattern with 90% infill density and six discs provides the optimum set of parameters for the 3D printing of PLA samples for maximization of compressive strength, especially for laminated object manufactured specimens. The Taguchi L9 orthogonal analysis (OA) suggested a significant influence on the infill pattern and the number of discs, contributing 51.60% and 48.29%, respectively, towards the compressive strength. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and toolmaker microscopic images have supported the observed experimental mechanical results for the laminated object manufactured specimens. The used technique of laminated object-manufactured components in the current study may have effective usage in marine and structural engineering fields.
The Development of Regional Vessel Traffic Congestion Forecasts Using Hybrid Data from an Automatic Identification System and a Port Management Information System
Authors: Son Joonbae , Kim Dong-Ham , Yun Sang-Woong , Kim Hye-Jin , Kim Sewon
Published: December 2022

The present study proposes a new method that forecasts congestion in the area near a port by combining the automatic identification systems of ships and port management information data. The proposed method achieves 85% accuracy for one-day-long ship congestion forecasts. This accuracy level is high enough to act as a reference value for both manned and unmanned operation situations for autonomous vessels in port areas. The proposed forecast algorithm achieves 95% accuracy when used for a one-hour ship congestion forecast. However, the accuracy of the algorithm is degraded to almost half when the automatic identification system or the port management system is used independently.
Information Capacity of Turbulent and Absorptive Underwater Wireless Link with Perfect Laguerre–Gaussian Beam and Pointing Errors
Authors: Zhang Yixin , Yan Qingze , Yu Lin , Zhu Yun
Published: December 2022

The model of information capacity for underwater wireless optical communication (UWOC) links with pointing errors and the carrier of perfect Laguerre–Gaussian (PLG) beam in absorbed and weakly turbulent seawater is modeled. Using this model, the influence of channel parameters on the propagation of PLG beams is numerically analyzed. We show that the pointing error significantly reduces the performance of the optical transmission system. Large topological charge and radial orders are not conducive to high information capacity transmission. Additionally, the information capacity decreases with the increase in the spectral absorption coefficient of seawater. With higher transmission power, the transmission of an optical transmission system with high average capacity can be realized. The information capacity is affected by both signal wavelength and seawater absorption coefficient. That is, in the case of small seawater absorption and short message channel, the channel capacity loss of the link with long signal wavelength is smaller. In the case of long channels and strong seawater absorption, the influence of signal wavelength on the average capacity can be ignored. The information capacity of the communication link is the highest, which is composed of the carrier with the OAM topological charge, and the radial orders are both 1, and the wavelength is 410 nm.
A Simple Algorithm for Semiquantitative Analysis of Scored Histology Data in the R Environment, on the Example of Murine Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis Pharmacotherapy
Authors: Prikhodko Veronika A. , Karev Vadim E. , Sysoev Yuri I. , Ivkin Dmitry Yu. , Okovityi Sergey V.
Published: December 2022

Despite the high medical and socioeconomic burden of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), treatments that could effectively reduce histological liver damage in this condition are lacking. As providing only qualitative data is a major limitation of most histological scoring systems, we aimed to develop a simple and straightforward algorithm for semiquantitative analysis of scored histology data using the extended Fisher’s exact test in the R environment. As an illustrative example, we used the effects of L-ornithine L-aspartate (LOLA) and empagliflozin (EMPA) in a 3-month chemical/dietary murine model of NAFLD. 100 C57Bl/6 mice were randomized into 4 groups: Intact (n = 10), Control (NAFLD; n = 30), LOLA (NAFLD + 1.5 g·kg−1 b.w./d LOLA orally; n = 30), and EMPA (NAFLD + 10 mg·kg−1 b.w./d EMPA orally; n = 30). LOLA reduced hepatitis activity (p < 0.05), cholestasis, necrosis, and fibrosis severity (p < 0.01), and EMPA prevented necrosis (p < 0.05) and reduced fibrosis severity (p < 0.01). The statistical approach we suggest can be used as a simple complementary tool for exploratory analysis of scored histology data.
Blockchain Technology and Sustainability in Supply Chains and a Closer Look at Different Industries: A Mixed Method Approach
Authors: Ayan Büşra , Güner Elif , Son-Turan Semen
Published: December 2022

Background: This study presents a comprehensive review of blockchain technology with a sustainability orientation in supply chains and logistics. Methods: The publications are extracted from the Scopus and Web of Science databases, comprising 552 publications between 2017 and 2022. Several bibliometric laws and techniques, namely three-field analysis, Bradford’s Law, Lotka’s Law, and thematic maps, are applied in R with the bibliometrix package. Content analysis is also carried out based on 185 publications to appreciate the industry-based view of the field. Results: The bibliometric results indicate that this field is on the rise. Authors, sources, affiliations, countries, keywords, and their relationships are also addressed. The findings of the content analysis and thematic maps reveal that some of the most highlighted themes in the literature include traceability, COVID-19, the internet of things, and Industry 4.0. The most popular industry in this field is discovered to be food and agriculture. Conclusions: This paper contributes to the still relatively scarce literature on how blockchain technology fosters sustainable supply chains and logistics, providing a closer look at blockchain use, methodologies, and future directions for different industries concerning food, agriculture, fashion, textile and apparel, manufacturing, automotive, maritime and shipping, healthcare and pharmaceutical, mining and mineral, and energy.
Deformation Behavior of Crystalline Cr–Ni Multilayer Coatings by Using Molecular Dynamics Simulation
Authors: Seo Kuk-Jin , Kim Dae-Eun
Published: December 2022

This work shows the atomic scale deformation behavior of crystalline multilayer coating comprising up to five Cr and Ni layers. A molecular dynamics simulation was conducted to visualize the atomic scale behavior of the multilayer during indentation/unloading and scratch. Normal and shear directional forces were recorded to compare repulsion and friction forces between the multilayer models during the indentation/unloading and scratch simulations. Dislocation lines within the layers were quantified to understand the deformation behavior of each model. Atomic scale deformation and dislocation lines after the indentation and scratch were visualized. Generation and movement of a single dislocation line during the indentation simulation were also visualized within a few picoseconds. The repulsion and friction forces of the five-layer model showed the lowest values among the models. The unloading stiffness of the five-layer model was calculated to be the lowest among the models. The amount of plastic deformation and the wear volume of the one-layer model after the indentation and scratch was calculated to be the highest among the models. The number of dislocation lines of the five-layer model showed an increasing trend during the indentation and scratch. The highest dislocation density of the five-layer model might aid in an enhancement of resistance to the plastic deformation to reduce the wear volume when scratched.
Model-Based Control Design of an EHA Position Control Based on Multicriteria Optimization
Authors: Dörr Matthias , Leitenberger Felix , Wolter Kai , Matthiesen Sven , Gwosch Thomas
Published: December 2022

For the control of dynamic systems such as an Electro-Hydraulic Actuator (EHA), there is a need to optimize the control based on simulations, since a prototype or a physical system is usually not available during system design. In consequence, no system identification can be performed. Therefore, it is unclear how well a simulation model of an EHA can be used for multicriteria optimization of the position control due to the uncertain model quality. To evaluate the suitability for control optimization, the EHA is modeled and parameterized as a grey-box model using existing parameters independent of test bench experiments. A method for multi-objective optimization of a controller is used to optimize the position control of the EHA. Finally, the step responses are compared with the test bench. The evaluation of the step responses for different loads and control parameters shows similar behavior between the simulation model and the physical system on the test bench, although the essential phenomena could not be reproduced. This means that the model quality achieved by modeling is suitable as an indication for the optimization of the control by simulation without a physical system.
Remaining Useful Life Prediction Based on Multi-Representation Domain Adaptation
Authors: Lyu Yi , Zhang Qichen , Wen Zhenfei , Chen Aiguo
Published: December 2022

All current deep learning-based prediction methods for remaining useful life (RUL) assume that training and testing data have similar distributions, but the existence of various operating conditions, failure modes, and noise lead to insufficient data with similar distributions during the training process, thereby reducing RUL prediction performance. Domain adaptation can effectively solve this problem by learning the cross-domain invariant features of the source domain and target domain to reduce the distribution difference. However, most domain adaptive methods extract the source domain and target domain features into a single space for feature alignment, which may leave out effective information and affect the accuracy of prediction. To address this problem, we propose a data-driven approach named long short-term memory network and multi-representation domain adaptation (LSTM-MRAN). We standardize and process the degraded sensor data with a sliding time window, use LSTM to extract features from the degraded data, and mine the time series information between the data. Then, we use multiple substructures in multi-representation domain adaptation to extract features of the source domain and target domain from different spaces and align features by minimizing conditional maximum mean difference (CMMD) loss functions. The effectiveness of the method is verified by the CMAPSS dataset. Compared with methods without domain adaptation and other transfer learning methods, the proposed method provides more reliable RUL prediction results under datasets with different operating conditions and failure modes.
Entropy Generation Due to Magneto-Convection of a Hybrid Nanofluid in the Presence of a Wavy Conducting Wall
Authors: Pekmen Geridonmez Bengisen Pekmen , Oztop Hakan F.
Published: December 2022

The two-dimensional, time-independent conjugate natural convection flow and entropy generation are numerically investigated in three different cases of a wavy conducting solid block attached to the left wall of a square cavity. A hybrid nanofluid with titania (TiO2) and copper (Cu) nanoparticles and base fluid water in the fluid part is considered in the presence of a uniform inclined magnetic field. The leftmost wall of the cavity is the hot one and the rightmost one is the cold one. Radial-basis-function-based finite difference (RBF-FD) is performed on an appropriate designed grid distribution. Numerical results in view of streamlines and isotherms, as well as average Nusselt number in an interface and total entropy generation are presented. The related parameters such as Hartmann number, Rayleigh number, conductivity ratio, amplitude in wavy wall, number of waviness, and inclination angle of magnetic field are observed. Convective heat transfer in the fluid part is an increasing function of kr,Ra,γ, while it deflates with the rise in Ha in each case. Total entropy generation increases with the increase in Ra and kr but it decreases with Ha values. Average Bejan number ascends with the rise in Ha and descends with the rise in Ra.
A Cross-Sectional Study about Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices among Primary Health Care Physicians in Jazan Province, Saudi Arabia, Regarding Rome IV Criteria for Diagnosis of Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Authors: Abusageah Faisal , Hakami Alwaleed , Zogel Basem , Zaalah Shaden , Alfaifi Samar , Shubayli Sahar , Hakami Khalid , Qadah Entsar , Aldharman Sarah , Hakami Faisal , Alqasemi Maram , Mobarki Mousa , Alhazmi Abdulaziz H.
Published: December 2022

Background and objectives: Most individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are diagnosed by primary health care (PHC) physicians. However, a significant percentage of patients remain undiagnosed or misdiagnosed owing to the lack of knowledge or a systematic strategy regarding the use of ROME IV criteria for the diagnosis of IBS. Thus, in this study, we aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practices among primary health care physicians in Jazan Province, Saudi Arabia, regarding ROME IV criteria for the diagnosis of IBS. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a pretested self-administered questionnaire that determines participants’ sociodemographic data and measures knowledge about ROME IV criteria, targeting PHC physicians in Jazan Province, Saudi Arabia. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) v.23. Results: We included 200 participants, and the majority of participants in our study (approximately 78%) were aware of the ROME IV diagnostic criteria for IBS; this awareness was associated with age, nationality, specialty, and classification. The participants’ mean level of knowledge was 4.30 (out of 6). However, knowledge was higher among Saudi and family medicine doctors in this study, as compared to non-Saudi and doctors of other specialties. More than two-thirds of participants who were aware of ROME IV criteria thought that they are sufficient to diagnose IBS; however, only 47.5% of physicians reported using ROME IV frequently in their daily practice. Conclusions: Most of the participants of this study are aware of ROME IV criteria, and better knowledge was noted among Saudi and family medicine physicians. About 70% thought that ROME IV criteria are effective enough to diagnose IBS, and only about half of the participants use ROME IV criteria in their practice. Therefore, due to its high prevalence in the region, further efforts are required to disseminate basic knowledge and improve attitudes and practices related to ROME IV criteria among PHC physicians of all specialties.