bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prognostic role of lymph node regression in patients with esophageal cancer undergoing neoadjuvant therapy
Authors: Chen Pingrun , Chen Maojia , Bu Yijie , Che Guowei , Cheng Chao , Wang Yan
Published: October 2024

Purpose

To clarify the prognostic value of lymph node regression (LNR) status including the lymph node regression grade (LNRG) and N downstaging in patients with esophageal cancer receiving neoadjuvant therapy based on available evidence.

Methods

Several databases were searched up to 25 March 2024. The main outcomes included overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS). Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were combined. Subgroup analyses based on the neoadjuvant therapy and pathological type were also conducted.

Results

In total, 14 retrospective studies with 3,212 participants were included. Nine and five studies explored the relationship between LNRG and N downstaging and survival, respectively. Pooled results indicated that complete LNR predicted significantly improved OS (HR = 0.47, 95% CI: 0.41–0.55, P < 0.001) and DFS (HR = 0.42, 95% CI: 0.32–0.55, P < 0.001) and subgroup analysis based on neoadjuvant therapy and pathological type manifested similar results. Besides, N downstaging was also significantly related to improved OS (HR = 0.40, 95% CI: 0.21–0.77, P = 0.006) and CSS (HR = 0.27, 95% CI: 0.12–0.60, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

LNR could serve as a novel and reliable prognostic factor in patients with esophageal cancer receiving neoadjuvant therapy and complete LNR and N downstaging predict better survival.
Improving Inoculum Production of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi in Zea mays L. Using Light-Emitting Diode (LED) Technology
Authors: Kiddee Sutee , Lakkasorn Niramon , Wongdee Jenjira , Piromyou Pongdet , Songwattana Pongpan , Greetatorn Teerana , Teamtisong Kamonluck , Boonkerd Nantakorn , Saito Katsuharu , Teaumroong Neung , Tittabutr Panlada
Published: October 2024

A substrate-based production system is a simple and low-cost method for arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungal inoculum production. However, it is time-consuming and typically yields low numbers of AM fungal spores due to several factors affecting plant growth efficiency. Our study investigated the use of light-emitting diode (LED) technology to expedite AM fungal spore production in planta. We performed experiments with Rhizophagus irregularis inoculated in maize (Zea mays L.), contrasting LED light with greenhouse (GH) conditions. Our results exhibited a significant improvement in AM fungal colonization and spore production, as well as a reduction in the production period from 120 to 90 days under the LED light condition. This was achieved using a red-and-blue light ratio of 60:40 with a total light intensity of 300 µmol m−2 s−1. The LED light treatments improved maize growth by increasing nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) concentrations in shoots and roots, respectively. Our gene expression analyses revealed that in AMF-inoculated plants, genes related to photosynthesis were significantly upregulated under LED light compared to the GH condition. Moreover, LED increased the expression of marker genes linked to the AM fungi-related cell cycle, indicating enhanced AM fungal growth during symbiosis. These findings advance our comprehension of LED applications in agriculture, offering promising prospects for acceleration of AM fungal spore production.
Investigations on the Health Status and Infection Risk of Harbour Seals (Phoca vitulina) from Waters of the Lower Saxon Wadden Sea, Germany
Authors: Siebert Ursula , Lakemeyer Jan , Runge Martin , Lienau Peter , Braune Silke , Bartelt Edda , Grilo Miguel L. , Pund Ralf
Published: October 2024

Harbour seals (Phoca vitulina) are the most common pinniped species in the Wadden Sea of Schleswig-Holstein, Hamburg and Lower Saxony, Germany. Their numbers have recovered after significant depletion due to viral outbreaks and effects of anthropogenic activities like pollution and habitat disturbance. Within the Wadden Sea National Park of Lower Saxony the harbour seal is protected. As a top predator in the Wadden Sea ecosystem, the harbour seal is a sentinel species for the state of the environment. Between 2015 and 2017, a total of 80 stranded dead harbour seals were collected along the coastline of Lower Saxony and submitted for pathological investigations. Of these, 70 seals were born in the same year (0–7 months, age group 1) and eight in the previous year (8–19 months, age group 2), due to high mortality rates in these age groups. However, two perennial animals were also available for examination during this period, one of which was in good nutritional condition. Many of the seals that had been mercy-killed and found dead were in poor nutritional status. Histopathological, microbiological, parasitological and virological examinations were conducted on 69 individuals (86% (69/80)) in a suitable state of preservation. Respiratory tract parasitosis, cachexia, and bronchopneumonia were the most common causes of death or disease. Overall, there was no evidence of a relapse of a viral disease outbreak. Macrowaste, such as plastic waste or fishery-related debris, were not found in any gastrointestinal tract of the animals examined. There was also no evidence of grey seal predation. Weakness and cachexia were prominent causes of disease and death in harbour seals found within a few weeks after birth, but bronchopneumonia and septicaemia also developed in slightly older animals. Frequently found microbial pathogens in seals from Lower Saxony were similar to those found in other studies on seals from the Wadden Sea region in Schleswig-Holstein, for example streptococci and Escherichia coli/v. haemolytica, Brucella spp. and Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae, potentially human pathogenic germs. The results of the examinations of dead harbour seals from Lower Saxony show that pathological investigations on a representative number of animals deliver urgently needed information on the health status of the population. The results represent an important contribution to the state of the top predators of the Wadden Sea as part of the obligations within the Trilateral Wadden Sea Agreement, Oslo and Paris Convention for the Protection of the Marine Environment of the North-East Atlantic (OSPAR) and the Marine Framework Directive. The investigations should be continued as a matter of urgency and the stranding network should be expanded.
The Addition of Hot Water Extract of Juncao-Substrate Ganoderma lucidum Residue to Diets Enhances Growth Performance, Immune Function, and Intestinal Health in Broilers
Authors: Gao Yu-Yun , Liu Xiao-Ping , Zhou Ying-Huan , He Jia-Yi , Di Bin , Zheng Xian-Yue , Guo Ping-Ting , Zhang Jing , Wang Chang-Kang , Jin Ling
Published: October 2024

The purpose of this experiment was to investigate the effects of Hot Water Extract of Juncao-substrate Ganoderma lucidum Residue (HWE-JGLR) on the immune function and intestinal health of yellow-feather broilers. In an animal feeding experiment, 288 male yellow-feather broilers (1 day old) were randomly allocated to four treatment groups with six replicates of 12 birds each. The control (CON) group was fed a basal diet. HJ-1, HJ-2, and HJ-3 were fed a basal diet supplemented with 0.25%, 0.50%, and 1.00% HWE-JGLR, respectively. The feeding trial lasted for 63 d. The results showed increased ADFI (p = 0.033) and ADG (p = 0.045) of broilers in HJ-3, compared with the CON group. Moreover, higher contents of serum IL-4 and IL-10 and gene expression of IL-4 and IL-10 in jejunum mucosa and lower contents of serum IL-1β and gene expression of IL-1β in jejunum mucosa in HJ-3 were observed (p < 0.05). Additionally, the jejunal mucosal gene expression of Claudin-1 and ZO-1 in HJ-2 and HJ-3 was higher than that in the CON group (p < 0.05). As for the microbial community, compared with the CON group, the ACE index, Shannon index, and Shannoneven index of cecal microorganisms in HJ-2 and HJ-3 were elevated (p < 0.05). PCoA analysis showed that the cecal microbial structure of broilers in HJ-2 and HJ-3 was different from the CON group (p < 0.05). In contrast with the CON group, the broilers in HJ-2 and HJ-3 possessed more abundant Desulfobacterota at the phylum level and unclassified Lachnospiraceae, norank Clostridia vadinBB60 group and Blautia spp. at the genus level, while Turicibacter spp. and Romboutsia spp. were less (p < 0.05). In conclusion, dietary supplementation with HWE-JGLR can improve growth performance, enhance body immunity and intestinal development, and maintain the cecum microflora balance of yellow-feather broilers.
Effect of Gestational Direct-Fed Microbials Supplementation on the Metabolic Profile in Periparturient Dairy Cows
Authors: Ramirez-Garzon Orlando , Barber David , Meneses Loreto , Soust Martin
Published: October 2024

This study was conducted at a commercial dairy farm in Queensland, Australia to evaluate the effects of feeding a lactic acid bacteria-based direct-fed microbial (DFM) during gestation on the metabolic profile of periparturient dairy cows and its effects on milk production and body weight. A total of 150 multiparous Holstein cows were randomly selected based on parity (2.3) and days in milk (130 DIM) and divided into two groups of 75 cows each (control and DFM). The control cows were assigned to a basal diet consisting of a silage-based partial mixed ration (PMR), concentrate fed in the dairy twice a day, and ad libitum pasture. The DFM group received the same basal diet supplemented with three strains of Lactobacillus top-dressed in the feed. The DFM supplementation continued during both the dry period and the subsequent lactation. A subset of 82 cows (40 control and 42 DFM) were monitored during the calving season (March to July 2022) to assess the metabolic profile and postpartum performance. Blood samples were collected during the periparturient period (−4 to −2 w prepartum, around calving, and at weeks 1, 3, and 6 postpartum) to measure the levels of metabolites, enzymes, and minerals. Overall, the serum glucose, NEFA, and chloride levels were higher, while protein and urea were lower in cows supplemented with the DFM (p < 0.005). The pre-calving levels of glucose were higher and the total bilirubin, urea, and BHB were lower in cows supplemented with DFM than in the control (p < 0.05). The post-calving levels of glucose and Mg were also higher in the DFM cows than in the control cows (p < 0.05). Average milk production at 110 DIM was significantly higher in the DFM cows compared to control cows (p = 0.03). Although the total milk production over 305 days was numerically greater in the DFM cows, the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.3), whereas the milk protein percentage was higher in the control cows (p = 0.03). The body weight of the DFM cows was greater during the periparturient period (p = 0.001) than that of the control cows. In the DFM cows, glucose levels had a positive correlation (r = 0.16) with milk yield, at 110 DIM, while serum total protein had a positive correlation with body weight (r = 0.32) (p < 0.05). In conclusion, feeding Lactobacillus-based DFM during gestation can positively influence the metabolic profile of periparturient cows, which, in turn, may affect the milk production and body weight of postpartum dairy cows.
Mitochondria-Targeted Antioxidant MitoQ Improves In Vitro Maturation and Subsequent Embryonic Development from Culled Cows
Authors: Feng Zhihao , Shi Junsong , Ren Jiajie , Luo Lvhua , Liu Dewu , Guo Yongqing , Sun Baoli , Liu Guangbin , Deng Ming , Li Yaokun
Published: October 2024

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects and mechanisms of MitoQ on the IVM of culled bovine oocytes and subsequent embryonic development. The results revealed that in comparison to the control group (0 µmol/L), the IVM rate (p < 0.05) and subsequent blastocyst rate (p < 0.05) of the low-concentration 1 and 5 µmol/L MitoQ treatment group were increased. The level of ROS (p < 0.05) in the MitoQ treatment group was decreased in comparison to the control group. Additionally, the level of GSH, MMP, ATP, and mt-DNA in the MitoQ treatment group was increased (p < 0.05) in comparison to the control group. The expression level of BAX was decreased (p < 0.05) in the MitoQ treatment group, and the BCL2, DNM1, Mfn2, SOD, and CAT were increased (p < 0.05). In conclusion, MitoQ improved mitochondrial dysfunction, increased mitochondrial activity during IVM, and reduced oxidative stress, resulting in increased IVM rates and subsequent embryonic development from culled cows.
Effects of Supplementation of Different Antioxidants to Cryopreservation Extender on the Post-Thaw Quality of Rooster Semen—A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Díaz Ruiz Esther , Navas González Francisco Javier , León Jurado José Manuel , Arando Arbulu Ander , Delgado Bermejo Juan Vicente , González Ariza Antonio
Published: October 2024

The standardization of the semen cryopreservation technique could be an effective tool in poultry for the conservation of genetic resources. During this process, the production of reactive oxygen species increases, leading to oxidative stress that causes damage to the spermatozoa. To reduce this effect, the addition of exogenous antioxidants in the cryopreservation diluent has been reported to be effective. Multiple antioxidants such as catalase, vitamin E, cysteamine, ergothioneine, and serine have been studied in roosters. Therefore, the present investigation aims to perform a meta-analysis to determine if the use of the aforementioned antioxidants added to the cryopreservation extender produces an improvement in semen quality parameters in roosters after thawing. After collecting the data, a discriminant canonical analysis was performed to determine which of the selected semen quality traits provided the most information, with hypo-osmotic swelling test (HOST), viability, and total motility variables showing the highest discriminatory power. However, according to the descriptive statistics, catalase and serine are the antioxidants that improve a greater number of seminal quality parameters, and since catalase gives the most favorable results for most of the discriminating variables, it could be the antioxidant of choice.
Unraveling Mitochondrial Reactive Oxygen Species Involvement in Psoriasis: The Promise of Antioxidant Therapies
Authors: Ahmad Jamil Hajar , Abdul Karim Norwahidah
Published: October 2024

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder characterized by immune dysregulation and aberrant keratinocyte proliferation. Despite tremendous advances in understanding its etiology, effective therapies that target its fundamental mechanisms remain necessary. Recent research highlights the role of reactive oxygen species dysregulation and mitochondrial dysfunction in psoriasis pathogenesis. Mitochondrial reactive oxygen species mediate cellular signaling pathways involved in psoriasis, such as proliferation, apoptosis, and inflammation, leading to oxidative stress, exacerbating inflammation and tissue damage if dysregulated. This review explores oxidative stress biomarkers and parameters in psoriasis, including myeloperoxidase, paraoxonase, sirtuins, superoxide dismutase, catalase, malondialdehyde, oxidative stress index, total oxidant status, and total antioxidant status. These markers provide insights into disease mechanisms and potential diagnostic and therapeutic targets. Modulating mitochondrial reactive oxygen species levels and enhancing antioxidant defenses can alleviate inflammation and oxidative damage, improving patient outcomes. Natural antioxidants like quercetin, curcumin, gingerol, resveratrol, and other antioxidants show promise as complementary treatments targeting oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction. This review aims to guide the development of personalized therapeutic methods and diagnostic techniques, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive clinical studies to validate the efficacy and safety of these interventions, paving the way for more effective and holistic psoriasis care.
Kashif: A Chrome Extension for Classifying Arabic Content on Web Pages Using Machine Learning
Authors: Aljabri Malak , Altamimi Hanan S. , Albelali Shahd A. , Al-Harbi Maimunah , Alhuraib Haya T. , Alotaibi Najd K. , Alahmadi Amal A. , Alhaidari Fahd , Mohammad Rami Mustafa A.
Published: October 2024

Search engines are significant tools for finding and retrieving information. Every day, many new web pages in various languages are added. The threats of cyberattacks are expanding rapidly with this massive volume of data. The majority of studies on the detection of malicious websites focus on English-language websites. This necessitates more studies on malicious detection on Arabic-content websites. In this research, we aimed to investigate the security of Arabic-content websites by developing a detection tool that analyzes Arabic content based on artificial intelligence (AI) techniques. We contributed to the field of cybersecurity and AI by building a new dataset of 4048 Arabic-content websites. We created and conducted a comparative performance evaluation for four different machine-learning (ML) models using feature extraction and selection techniques: extreme gradient boosting, support vector machines, decision trees, and random forests. The best-performing model was then integrated into a Chrome plugin, created based on a random forest (RF) model, and utilized the features selected via the chi-square technique. This produced plugin tool attained an accuracy of 92.96% for classifying Arabic-content websites as phishing, suspicious, or benign. To our knowledge, this is the first tool designed specifically for Arabic-content websites.
Cytotoxicity and Microbiological Properties of Ceramic CAD/CAM Materials Subjected to Surface Treatment with Nanometric Copper Layer
Authors: Piszko Aleksandra , Grzebieluch Wojciech , Piszko Paweł J. , Rusak Agnieszka , Pajączkowska Magdalena , Nowicka Joanna , Kobielarz Magdalena , Mikulewicz Marcin , Dobrzyński Maciej
Published: October 2024

The aim of this study is to present the characteristics and a comparison of four different commercial materials dedicated to the CAD/CAM technique in dentistry, all of which can be classified as ceramic materials. Its purpose is also to evaluate the impact of surface treatment on the cytotoxicity and microbiological properties of the materials. The CAD/CAM technique has a perpetually growing role in modern reconstructive dentistry. It requires a material’s possession of peculiar characteristics, such as mechanical resistance, durability, functionality (similar to natural tissues), good aesthetics and biocompatibility. To critically evaluate a biomaterial, both manufacturer claims and in vitro tests should be considered. Further steps of evaluation may include animal tests and clinical trials. There are certain attributes of biomaterials that may be modified by surface treatment that can be crucial to the clinical success of the material. The evaluated materials were Vita Suprinity (VITA-Zahnfabrik, Germany), Vita Mark II (VITA-Zahnfabrik, Germany), Celtra Duo (Dentsply Sirona, USA) and Empress Cad (Ivoclar Vivadent, Liechtenstein). They are available in the form of prefabricated blocks of various diameters and are popular among operators performing clinical procedures using CAD/CAM. Standardized blocks of each material were prepared. Half of them had their surface polished. Further, half of all the samples were covered by a nano-copper layer. The samples were evaluated for cytotoxicity, presented on a 0–4 scale, adhesion susceptibility and potential of forming a biofilm on their surface. Physicochemical properties such as the water contact angle (WCA) were evaluated for the tested materials. The influence of copper coating on cytotoxicity cannot be unequivocally stated or denied. Surface polishing did not affect the materials’ cytotoxicity, but it increased the WCA of all materials and, therefore, their hydrophobicity. Different degrees of adhesion ability and biofilm formation were dependent on the species of microorganisms and properties of the dental materials.
Design and Test of Seedling-Picking Mechanism of Fully Automatic Transplanting Machine
Authors: Zhou Biao , Miao Hong , Guan Chunsong , Ji Xin , Wang Xiaochan
Published: October 2024

The seedling retrieval mechanism is a crucial component of fully automatic transplanting machines, significantly influencing the quality, reliability, and efficiency of the transplanting process. Nonetheless, the existing seedling retrieval mechanisms in current transplanting machines exhibit several deficiencies, including substantial damage to seedlings and inadequate retrieval accuracy. To overcome these challenges, we propose an integrated approach combining pneumatic and mechanical techniques to further improve performance. By employing a lower thimble elevation and clamping mechanism, alongside a mathematical model based on the seedling removal process, this method ensures precise seedling extraction and minimizes damage to the root system and substrate. The novelty of this study lies in its ability to reduce the adhesion between seedlings and the holes of the plug plate, thereby minimizing non-destructive extraction of the seedlings and preserving the integrity of the matrix, which is essential for ensuring healthy seedling growth. Moreover, the optimization of the seedling retrieval trajectory enhances the accuracy of the seedling retrieval mechanism while also meeting the requisite speed requirements. Experimental results indicate that at a rate of 72 seedlings per minute, the extraction success rate reached 94.90%, and the casting success rate was 98.53%. The seedling injury rate was only 1.95%, resulting in an overall success rate of 91.69%. These findings confirm that the device meets operational efficiency requirements and delivers effective performance.
Knapsack Balancing via Multiobjectivization
Authors: Kaliszewski Ignacy , Miroforidis Janusz
Published: October 2024

In this paper, we address the aspect of knapsack balancing in the classic knapsack problem. Recognizing that excessive dispersion in the objective function or constraint coefficients of the optimal solution can be undesirable, we propose, when appropriate, to control this effect through problem multiobjectivization. By multiobjectivization, we mean the addition of one or more objective functions that aim to shift the original problem’s optimal solutions towards Pareto optimal solutions of the multiobjectivized problem, reducing the dispersion of the respective coefficients. We detail how the knapsack balance aspect can be incorporated into the standard knapsack problem model and demonstrate the functionality of this enriched model through illustrative examples.
Assessment of Soil Radioactivity Associated with Risk and Correlation with Soil Properties near Maanshan Nuclear Power Plant, Taiwan
Authors: Chen Ting-Chien , Zeng Fan-Cheng , Lin Chih-Chung , Yeh Yi-Lung , Huang Wei-Hsiang
Published: October 2024

This study analyzes the concentration of radioactive material in the soil near the Maanshan nuclear power plant (NPP). Out of the thirty samples, only one sample was found to have 137Cs radioactivity measuring 2.58 Bq/kg. The activity concentrations were 77.2–517.7 Bq/kg, 3.9–31.6 Bq/Kg, and 5.3–39.1 Bq/kg, respectively, with mean values of 344.4 Bq/kg, 18.6 Bq/kg, and 26.5 Bq/kg for 40K, 226Ra, and 232Th, respectively. These levels are lower than the global average of soil activity concentrations. The activity concentrations varied, with the highest levels being 7–8 times greater than the lowest levels. Clay content had a positive correlation and sand content had a negative correlation with 40K, 226Ra, and 232Th activity concentrations. The activity concentrations followed a normal distribution for 40K, 226Ra, and 232Th. The activity ratios for 232Th/226Ra, 40K/232Th, and 40K/226Ra were 1.43 ± 0.22, 13.1 ± 1.9, and 18.8 ± 4.1, respectively, and ratios show light minerals in the soils. The average values for external hazard indices (Hex) and radium equivalent activity (Raeq) were 0.22 Bq/kg and 83.0 Bq/kg, respectively, both of which are below the recommended limit values of 1.0 Bq/kg and 370 Bq/kg, respectively. The outdoor absorbed dose rate (DRex) and annual effective dose equivalent (AEDex) were 39.0 nGy/h and 47.8 μSv/y, respectively, both of which are lower than the global soil average of 59 nGy/h and 70 μSv/y, respectively. These results indicate that local residents and tourists are not at significant risk of radiological hazards from the soil. The soil activity concentrations can serve as a baseline for continuous monitoring, even after the Maanshan NPP is decommissioned in 2025.
Pathway Selection for Enhancing the Efficiency of Psychological Crisis Intervention Resource Integration during Major Emergencies: Evidence from China
Authors: Chen Lei , Li Hongxia , Zhao Lin
Published: October 2024

In major emergencies, psychological crisis intervention plays a critical role in safeguarding public mental health and supporting post-disaster recovery. However, uneven resource allocation underscores the urgent need for more efficient resource integration pathways. This study, based on data from Chinese governmental and health departmental reports in 2022, employs a Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) and a fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA) to evaluate the efficiency of psychological crisis intervention resource integration across various regions. It investigates the combined effects of internal and external factors on improving integration efficiency through a configurational approach. The findings reveal that while the overall efficiency of resource integration is relatively high, there are notable differences between institutions. The analysis identifies five key pathways: policy support-driven (H1), professional capability-driven (H2), comprehensive synergy-driven (H3), resource optimization (NH1), and community empowerment (NH2). Despite regional disparities, effectively integrating key resources can enhance overall efficiency. Coordinating internal and external factors and optimizing essential resources are crucial for improving the effectiveness of psychological crisis interventions. This research offers actionable insights into integration strategies to strengthen psychological crisis intervention during emergencies. The findings also provide practical solutions to improve disaster preparedness and intervention efficiency, addressing a key gap in crisis resource management research.
Study on Effect of Scaling and Anisotropy on Roughness of Natural Fractured Rock Surfaces
Authors: Mei Qianwei , Chen Gang , Ma Ling , Gong Hongsheng , Long Yanzhu
Published: October 2024

In the modified formula for the cubic law, the roughness correction coefficient C serves as a parameter that indicates the characteristics of the roughness of a rock’s surface. In this study, surface data for natural rock samples were acquired through high-precision 3D scanning and combined with publicly accessible CT scan data on rough rock fractures to generate spatial coordinates. The roughness correction coefficient C was calculated and analyzed using both formulaic and numerical methods. The analysis revealed significant effects of scale on the roughness correction coefficient for rock fractures within a size range of 5 to 10 cm (determined based on the actual sample size), with tensile fractures demonstrating greater variations compared to shear fractures. When calculating the roughness correction coefficient on the same fracture surface in different directions, significant directional effects were observed. Furthermore, elliptical fitting demonstrated favorable results. The conclusion drawn was that the roughness correction coefficient for fracture surfaces can be represented effectively using a tensor form, thereby simplifying the expression of directionality. Calculating and analyzing the fractal dimension of a rough surface further confirmed the existence of effects of size on roughness.
Electronic, Optical and Thermoelectric Properties of Two-Dimensional Molybdenum Carbon Mo2C-MXenes
Authors: Anh Doan Thi Kieu , Minh Pham Hong , Yamanoi Kohei , Cadatal-Raduban Marilou , Mui Luong Viet , Hieu Do Minh , Hung Nguyen Dai
Published: October 2024

We investigate the structural, electronic, optical, and thermoelectric properties of three compositions of Mo2C-MXenes (Mo2CF2, Mo2C(OH)2, and Mo2CO2) from monolayer to multilayer by first principles calculation within Density Functional Theory (DFT) and Boltzmann transport theory. Firstly, the atomic structures of Mo2C-MXenes are optimized, and their respective structures are created with comparative research. Secondly, their electronic band structures and optical properties are studied in detail. The estimation of the bandgap energy of Mo2C-MXenes with its functionalization reveal that most Mo2CF2 and Mo2C(OH)2 layers are semiconductors, while Mo2CO2 behaves as a metal. The electrical and optical properties can be altered by controlling the on-surface functional groups and the number of layers. Computation of the thermoelectric (TE) properties of Mo2C-MXenes reveals that, upon heating to 600 K, Mo2CF2 and Mo2C(OH)2 exhibit a high Seebeck coefficient and a relatively high electrical conductivity. The Seebeck coefficient reaches ~400 µV K−1 at room temperature for all layers of Mo2CF2 MXenes. Our results prove that Mo2CF2 is considered a promising material for thermoelectric devices, while Mo2CO2 does not possess better thermoelectric performance. Mo2C-MXenes from monolayer to multilayer have outstanding properties, such as flexible bandgap energy and high thermal stability, making them promising candidates for many applications, including energy storage and electrode applications.
Shaping New Identities in the First Intermediate Period (2160–2050 BC): Archers and Warriors in the Iconography of Upper Egypt
Authors: Moreno García Juan Carlos
Published: October 2024

The First Intermediate Period was a time of cultural innovation and social competition. The collapse of the monarchy and the cultural productions it sponsored paved the way for the emergence of new artistic and cultural expressions, better adapted to a context of fragile authorities and competing local powers. Warfare between rival regional polities became frequent, so tomb scenes and funerary stelae from Middle and Upper Egypt began depicting military actions and men posing as archers. Moreover, local authorities sought the support of local levies and fellow citizens to strengthen and legitimate their fragile rule. Therefore, many monuments and inscriptions celebrate successful command, effective leadership, and caring about one’s city and its inhabitants. These conditions favoured the emergence of cultural innovations and social values aiming to express new identities. Depicting weapons, mainly bows, was crucial in this respect in some areas of Southern Egypt and echoed comparable phenomena occurring in neighbour regions like Nubia and the Levant.
Correction: Wu, K.-L.; Shan, L. Make Way for the Wind—Promoting Urban Wind Corridor Planning by Integrating RS, GIS, and CFD in Urban Planning and Design to Mitigate the Heat Island Effect. Atmosphere 2024, 15, 257
Authors: Wu Kang-Li , Shan Liang
Published: October 2024

In the original publication [...]
A Non-Surgical Wearable Option for Bone Conduction Hearing Implants: A Comparative Study with Conventional Bone Conduction Hearing Aids Mounted on Eyeglasses
Authors: Di Berardino Federica , Ciavarro Giovanni , Fumagalli Giulia , Albanese Claudia , Pasanisi Enrico , Zanetti Diego , Vincenti Vincenzo
Published: October 2024

Objectives. This study aimed to compare the audiological benefits of a non-implantable wearable option for a bone conduction (BC) implant mounted on an arch (SoundArc) to those of traditional BC hearing aids (HAs) mounted on eyeglasses (BCHAs) in patients with moderate to severe conductive or mixed hearing loss. Methods: A preliminary cross-sectional observational prospective cohort study was conducted in the Tertiary Audiological Department, University Hospital. Fourteen adults with conductive or mixed hearing loss (PTA at 0.5-1-2-4 KHz = 67 ± 15 dB HL) who had been wearing conventional BCHAs mounted on eyeglasses for at least 3 years and had declined surgical implantation of a bone conduction hearing implant (BCHI) were included in the study. Unaided and aided pure-tone air conduction (AC) and bone conduction (BC) thresholds, as well as speech tests in quiet and noise, were recorded at baseline and in two different settings: with a BCHI mounted on SoundArc® and with their own BCHAs mounted on eyeglasses using two couplers. Participants completed questionnaires in both conditions, including the International Inventory for Hearing Aids (IOI-HA), the Hearing Handicap Inventory for Adults/Elderly (HHIA/E), the Speech, Spatial, and Qualities of Hearing Scale (SSQ), a 10-point visual analog scale (VAS), and the Fatigue Impact Scale (FIS). Results: A significant functional gain was observed in both settings (p = 0.0001). Better speech perception in quiet and noise was observed with SoundArc compared to conventional BCHAs on eyeglasses (improvements in word repetition scores in noise: +19.3 at SNR +10 dB, p = 0.002; +12.1 at SNR 0 dB, p = 0.006; and +11.4 at SNR −10 dB, p = 0.002). No significant differences were found in IOI-HA, FIS, and HHIA/E scores. However, significantly better SSQ scores were reported for SoundArc in all domains (p = 0.0038). Conclusions: Although patients were accustomed to using BCHAs mounted on eyeglasses, the bone conduction wearable option of the BCHI (SoundArc) proved to be a viable alternative for adult patients with conductive or mixed hearing loss who are unable or unwilling to undergo BCHI surgery.
Augmenting Multimodal Content Representation with Transformers for Misinformation Detection
Authors: Wang Jenq-Haur , Norouzi Mehdi , Tsai Shu Ming
Published: October 2024

Information sharing on social media has become a common practice for people around the world. Since it is difficult to check user-generated content on social media, huge amounts of rumors and misinformation are being spread with authentic information. On the one hand, most of the social platforms identify rumors through manual fact-checking, which is very inefficient. On the other hand, with an emerging form of misinformation that contains inconsistent image–text pairs, it would be beneficial if we could compare the meaning of multimodal content within the same post for detecting image–text inconsistency. In this paper, we propose a novel approach to misinformation detection by multimodal feature fusion with transformers and credibility assessment with self-attention-based Bi-RNN networks. Firstly, captions are derived from images using an image captioning module to obtain their semantic descriptions. These are compared with surrounding text by fine-tuning transformers for consistency check in semantics. Then, to further aggregate sentiment features into text representation, we fine-tune a separate transformer for text sentiment classification, where the output is concatenated to augment text embeddings. Finally, Multi-Cell Bi-GRUs with self-attention are used to train the credibility assessment model for misinformation detection. From the experimental results on tweets, the best performance with an accuracy of 0.904 and an F1-score of 0.921 can be obtained when applying feature fusion of augmented embeddings with sentiment classification results. This shows the potential of the innovative way of applying transformers in our proposed approach to misinformation detection. Further investigation is needed to validate the performance on various types of multimodal discrepancies.
Diffusion of ERP in the Construction Industry: An ERP Modules Approach: Case Study of Developing Countries
Authors: Boutros Marie-Belle , El Hajj Claudette , Jawad Dima , Martínez Montes Germán
Published: October 2024

The risk–benefit analysis of ERP implementation is worth investigating to optimize the efficiency of ERP deployment in the construction sector. This study investigates the factors affecting the dissipation of ERP through diffusion models in developing countries. Moreover, it suggests a strategy to adopt ERP modules that optimize process integration and project efficiency through the priority factors method. According to the study, the internal model best describes the studied modules, and it suggests that imitative behavior and word of mouth significantly influence ERP adoption in the Africa and Middle East regions. This research concludes with an optimized order for deploying ERP modules based on the importance, urgency, and ease of implementation of each module. It is as follows: work progress (500), budgeting (405), procurement (343), site operations (280), planning and scheduling (270), accounting (252), inventory management (126), document control (90), and tendering (6). Therefore, it can be concluded that this study fills the research gap of ERP module adoption using diffusion models and priority factors within the construction industry, specifically in the specified regions. However, considering dynamic influence factors might provide more precise predictions, while involving a greater number of companies’ owners might highlight a greater importance of external factors.
Use of Waste Slag and Rubber Particles to Make Mortar for Filling the Joints of Snow-Melting Concrete Pavement
Authors: Peng Wenbo , Geng Zhiyuan , Zhang Xueting , Zeng Qi , Wei Longhai , Zhou Li , Li Wentao
Published: October 2024

Waste slag and rubber particles are commonly used to modify concrete, offering benefits such as reduced cement consumption and lower greenhouse gas emissions during cement production. In this study, these two environmentally friendly, sustainable waste materials were proposed for the preparation of mortar intended for snow-melting pavements. A series of experiments were conducted to evaluate the performance of the material and to determine whether its compressive and flexural strengths meet the requirements of pavement specifications. The mortar’s suitability for snow-melting pavements was assessed based on its thermal conductivity, impermeability, and freeze–thaw resistance. The results indicate that slag, when used in different volume fractions, can enhance the compressive and flexural strength of the mortar. Slag also provides excellent thermal conductivity, impermeability, and resistance to freeze–thaw cycles, contributing to the overall performance of snow-melting pavements. When the slag content was 20%, the performance was optimal, with the compressive strength and flexural strength reaching 58.5 MPa and 8.1 MPa, respectively. The strength loss rate under freeze–thaw cycles was 8.03%, the thermal conductivity reached 2.2895 W/(m * K), and the impermeability pressure value reached 0.5 MPa. Conversely, the addition of rubber particles was found to decrease the material’s mechanical and thermal properties. However, when used in small amounts, rubber particles improved the mortar’s impermeability and resistance to freeze–thaw cycles. When the rubber content was 5% by volume, the impermeability pressure value reached 0.5 MPa, which was 166.7% lower than that of ordinary cement mortar. Under freeze–thaw cycles, the strength loss rate of the test block with a rubber content of 25% volume fraction was 9.83% lower than that of ordinary cement mortar.
Immunotherapeutic Potential of Mutated NPM1 for the Treatment of Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Greiner Jochen , Mohamed Eithar , Fletcher Daniel M. , Schuler Patrick J. , Schrezenmeier Hubert , Götz Marlies , Guinn Barbara-ann
Published: October 2024

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a malignant disease of the blood and bone marrow that is characterized by uncontrolled clonal proliferation of abnormal myeloid progenitor cells. Nucleophosmin 1 (NPM1) gene mutations are the most common genetic abnormality in AML, detectable in blast cells from about one-third of adults with AML. AML NPM1mut is recognized as a separate entity in the World Health Organization classification of AML. Clinical and survival data suggest that patients with this form of AML often have a more favorable prognosis, which may be due to the immunogenicity created by the mutations in the NPM1 protein. Consequently, AML with NPM1mut can be considered an immunogenic subtype of AML. However, the underlying mechanisms of this immunogenicity and associated favorable survival outcomes need to be further investigated. Immune checkpoint molecules, such as the programmed cell death-1 (PD-1) protein and its ligand, PD-L1, play important roles in leukemogenesis through their maintenance of an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Preclinical trials have shown that the use of PD-1/PD-L1 checkpoint inhibitors in solid tumors and lymphoma work best in novel therapy combinations. Patients with AML NPM1mut may be better suited to immunogenic strategies that are based on the inhibition of the PD-1 immune checkpoint pathway than patients without this mutation, suggesting the genetic landscape of patients may also inform best practice for the use of PD-1 inhibitors.
PARP Inhibitors in Pancreatic Cancer with Homologous Recombination Repair Gene Mutations: A Single-Institution Experience
Authors: Miao Ruoyu , Blue Kirsten , Sommerer Katelyn , Shah Anand , Bottiglieri Sal , del Cueto Alex , Berry Darcy K. , Ho Teresa T. , Hicks James Kevin , Kim Dae Won
Published: October 2024

Background: Limited data are available regarding the anticancer activity of PARP inhibitors (PARPis) in pancreatic cancer with mutations in HRR genes other than BRCA and PALB2. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the clinical characteristics and outcomes of 48 patients with advanced pancreatic cancer harboring pathogenic germline and/or somatic HRR mutations who were treated with PARPis. Results: Thirty patients had germline (g)HRR mutations only, twelve had somatic (s)HRR mutations only, and six had concomitant gHRR and sHRR mutations. The objective response rate (ORR) was 22%. The median progression-free survival (mPFS) and overall survival (mOS) were 6.9 and 11.5 months, respectively. Five patients received olaparib in the front-line setting due to borderline performance status. Their ORR was 20%, and their mPFS and mOS were both 11.3 months. The ORR was higher in patients with BRCA or PALB2 mutations (germline or somatic) than in those with non-BRCA/PALB2 mutations. Patients with somatic non-BRCA/PALB2 variants had a shorter mPFS. Patients with concomitant gHRR/sHRR mutations or gHRR mutations alone had a significantly longer mPFS than those with sHRR mutations only. Conclusions: PARP inhibitors may be considered for patients with advanced pancreatic cancer harboring pathogenic alterations of BRCA who cannot tolerate standard chemotherapy. Maintenance PARPis can be considered in selected patients with non-BRCA/non-PALB2 HRR mutations.
The Power of Reagent Titration in Flow Cytometry
Authors: Bonilla Diana L. , Paul Alberta , Gil-Pulido Jesus , Park Lily M. , Jaimes Maria C.
Published: October 2024

Flow cytometry facilitates the detection of multiple cell parameters simultaneously with a high level of resolution and throughput, enabling in-depth immunological evaluations. High data resolution in flow cytometry depends on multiple factors, including the concentration of reagents used in the staining protocol, and reagent validation and titration should be the first step in any assay optimization. Titration is the process of finding the concentration of the reagent that best resolves a positive signal from the background, with the saturation of all binding sites, and minimal antibody excess. The titration process involves the evaluation of serial reagent dilutions in cells expressing the antigen target for the tested antibody. The concentration of antibody that provides the highest signal to noise ratio is calculated by plotting the percentage of positive cells and the intensity of the fluorescence of the stained cells with respect to the negative events, in a concentration–response curve. The determination of the optimal antibody concentration is necessary to ensure reliable and reproducible results and is required for each sample type, reagent clone and lot, as well as the methods used for cell collection, staining, and storage conditions. If the antibody dilution is too low, the signal will be too weak to be accurately determined, leading to suboptimal data resolution, high variability across measurements, and the underestimation of the frequency of cells expressing a specific marker. The use of excess antibodies could lead to non-specific binding, reagent misuse, and detector overloading with the signal off scale and higher spillover spreading. In this publication, we summarized the titration fundamentals and best practices, and evaluated the impact of using a different instrument, sample, staining, acquisition, and analysis conditions in the selection of the optimal titer and population resolution.
Enhanced Anti-Melanoma Activity of Nutlin-3a Delivered via Ethosomes: Targeting p53-Mediated Apoptosis in HT144 Cells
Authors: Romani Arianna , Lodi Giada , Casciano Fabio , Gonelli Arianna , Secchiero Paola , Zauli Giorgio , Bortolini Olga , Valacchi Giuseppe , Ragno Daniele , Bondi Agnese , Benedusi Mascia , Esposito Elisabetta , Voltan Rebecca
Published: October 2024

This study evaluated ethosomes as a novel nanodelivery system for nutlin-3a, a known MDM2 inhibitor and activator of the p53 pathway, to improve nutlin-3a’s poor solubility, limiting its bio-distribution and therapeutic efficacy. The potential of nutlin-3a-loaded ethosomes was investigated on two in vitro models of melanoma: the HT144 cell line p53wild-type and the SK-MEL-28 cell line p53mutated. Nutlin-3a-loaded ethosomes were characterized for their physicochemical properties and used to treat melanoma cells at different concentrations, considering nutlin-3a solution and empty ethosomes as controls. The biological effects on cells were evaluated 24 and 48 h after treatment by analyzing the cell morphology and viability, cell cycle, and apoptosis rate using flow cytometry and the p53 pathway’s activation via Western blotting. The results indicate that ethosomes are delivery systems able to maintain nutlin-3a’s functionality and specific biological action, as evidenced by the molecular activation of the p53 pathway and the biological events leading to cell cycle block and apoptosis in p53wild-type cells. Nutlin-3a-loaded ethosomes induced morphological changes in the HT144 cell line, with evident apoptotic cells and a reduction in the number of viable cells of over 80%. Furthermore, nutlin-3a-loaded ethosomes successfully modulated two p53-regulated proteins involved in survival/apoptosis, with up to a 2.5-fold increase in membrane TRAIL-R2 and up to an 8.2-fold decrease in Notch-1 (Notch intracellular domain, NICD) protein expression. The expression of these molecules is known to be altered or dysfunctional in a large percentage of melanoma tumors. Notably, ethosomes, regardless of their nutlin-3a loading, exhibited the ability to reduce HT144 melanoma cellular migration, as assessed in real time using xCELLigence, likely due to the modification of lipid rafts, suggesting their potential antimetastatic properties. Overall, nutlin-3a delivery using ethosomes appears to be a significantly effective means for upregulating the p53 pathway and downregulating active Notch-1, while also taking advantage of their unexpected ability to reduce cellular migration. The findings of this study could pave the way for the development of specific nutlin-3a-loaded ethosome-based medicinal products for cutaneous use.