bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dust Dispersion Characteristics of Open Stockpiles and the Scale of Dust Suppression Shed
Authors: Ma Weiwu , Du Weiqiang , Guo Jiaxin , Wu Shuyuan , Li Liqing , Zeng Zheng
Published: November 2022

The storage of bulk materials in open yards can easily lead to contamination in the form of suspended particles. The creation of enclosed spaces for open yards is an effective measure to stop the dispersion of dust to the outside. In this study, a reliable numerical model was developed to calculate the impact range of dust dispersion using the concentration–velocity distribution of pollutants based on the DPM-CFD simulation, and validated by field measurement data. Then, the hazard distance was defined as the basis for determining the boundary of the closed shed. Finally, we determined the dimensions of the boundaries by a comprehensive analysis of the structure and materials of the closed shed. Our results demonstrated that the most unfavorable wind speed determines the maximum concentration of dust at a height of 1.5 m. As a result, hazard distance thresholds are obtained to be 63.5 m and then the shed boundary dimensions are calculated to be 127 m. Our studies can provide some theoretical basis for the construction of closed sheds in field yards.
Temperature-Dependent Dynamic on Resistance in Gamma-Irradiated AlGaN/GaN Power HEMTs
Authors: Maset Enrique , Martín-Holgado Pedro , Morilla Yolanda , Gilabert David , Sanchis-Kilders Esteban , Martínez Pedro J.
Published: November 2022

Dynamic RON is a key parameter in terms of device reliability and the efficiency of power-switching converters. In this study, commercial off-the-shelf GaN-on-Si power high-electron-mobility transistors (HEMTs) were irradiated using different regimes of accumulative gamma rays with a 60Co source of photon energy (1.33 MeV), while a base temperature of 53 °C and 133 °C during the irradiation test was applied. This test campaign had the objective of investigating how the combination of gamma irradiation and temperature affects dynamic on-resistance (RON) behaviour. The results indicated that gate voltage bias stress affected the degradation of dynamic on-resistance when irradiation was applied, and that temperature was an accelerating factor in dynamic on-resistance degradation. Finally, we obtained a partial reduction in dynamic RON when a total ionising dose of around 140 krad(SiO2) was applied and the base temperature during the irradiation test was not high.
Solving Time-Fractional Partial Differential Equation Using Chebyshev Cardinal Functions
Authors: Bin Jebreen Haifa , Cattani Carlo
Published: November 2022

We propose a numerical scheme based on the Galerkin method for solving the time-fractional partial differential equations. To this end, after introducing the Chebyshev cardinal functions (CCFs), using the relation between fractional integral and derivative, we represent the Caputo fractional derivative based on these bases and obtain an operational matrix. Applying the Galerkin method and using the operational matrix for the Caputo fractional derivative, the desired equation reduces to a system of linear algebraic equations. By solving this system, the unknown solution is obtained. The convergence analysis for this method is investigated, and some numerical simulations show the accuracy and ability of the technique.
Re-Enlightenment of Fulminant Type 1 Diabetes under the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Sano Hiroyuki , Imagawa Akihisa
Published: November 2022

Fulminant type 1 diabetes (FT1D) is a subtype of type 1 diabetes (T1D) that is characterized by the rapid progression to diabetic ketoacidosis against the background of rapid and almost complete pancreatic islet destruction. The HbA1c level at FT1D onset remains normal or slightly elevated despite marked hyperglycemia, reflecting the rapid clinical course of the disease, and is an important marker for diagnosis. FT1D often appears following flu-like symptoms, and there are many reports of its onset being linked to viral infections. In addition, disease-susceptibility genes have been identified in FT1D, suggesting the involvement of host factors in disease development. In most cases, islet-related autoantibodies are not detected, and histology of pancreatic tissue reveals macrophage and T cell infiltration of the islets in the early stages of FT1D, suggesting that islet destruction occurs via an immune response different from that occurring in autoimmune type 1 diabetes. From 2019, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by the novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) spread worldwide and became a serious problem. Reports on the association between SARS-CoV-2 and T1D are mixed, with some suggesting an increase in T1D incidence due to the COVID-19 pandemic. When discussing the association between COVID-19 and T1D, it is also necessary to focus on FT1D. However, it is not easy to diagnose this subtype without understanding the concept. Therefore, authors hereby review the concept and the latest findings of FT1D, hoping that the association between COVID-19 and T1D will be adequately evaluated in the future.
Assessment of the Functional Form of the Relationship between Balance Control and Physical Activity Regarding Demographic, Anthropometrical, and Eye Impairment Explanatory Covariates in 9- to 11-Year-Old Children: Results of Polynomial and Cluster Analyses
Authors: Domaradzki Jarosław , Modrzejewska Monika , Koźlenia Dawid , Zwierko Teresa
Published: November 2022

Explaining the causal and functional relationship between balance control and physical activity (PA) when comparing demographic, anthropometric, and eyesight impairment is uncharted. This study aimed to assess the shape of the relationships between balance control and PA and to verify the usefulness of explanatory variables (sex, chronological age, biological age, myopia, and BMI) in explaining the formation of functional forms between both abovementioned variables. The current contribution evaluated data from 9–11-year-old children (47 boys, 58 girls) and attempts to explain the shape of the relationship between the overall stability index and PA synthetic index, sorting children into clusters depending on their balance features and PA and comparing the separated groups in terms of explanatory variables. The analysis demonstrates four larger clusters that displayed distinct functional relationships. Only BMI and myopia turned out to be useful in explaining cluster memberships. Children in clusters with a linear-constant decline functional form were mostly non-myopic girls, thin, and less mature. Meanwhile, it becomes clear that children with an L-shape were myopic, early-maturated boys with a BMI in the middle of the range for normal weight. The pattern of an inverted U-shaped functional form was distinctive for myopes with rather high BMIs compared to their peers but normally matured.
Exogenous Melatonin Regulates Puberty and the Hypothalamic GnRH-GnIH System in Female Mice
Authors: Chen Zixuan , Si Lina , Shu Weihan , Zhang Xin , Wei Chenyang , Wei Meng , Cheng Luyang , Chen Zhihong , Qiao Yuebing , Yang Songhe
Published: November 2022

In recent years, the age of children entering puberty is getting lower and the incidence of central precocious puberty is increasing. It is known that melatonin plays an increasingly important role in regulating animal reproduction, but the specific role and mechanism of melatonin in regulating the initiation of puberty remain unclear. The purpose of the current study was to investigate the effect of subcutaneous melatonin injection on pubertal development in female mice and its mechanism of action. Female mice that were 22 days old received 1 mg/kg doses of melatonin subcutaneously every day for 10, 15 and 20 days. The vaginal opening was checked daily. Hematoxylin and eosin (HE) stain was used to determine the growth of the uterus and ovaries. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to determine the levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), gonadotropin-inhibiting hormone (GnIH), and gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) in serum. By using RT-PCR and Western blotting, the mRNA and protein expression of the hypothalamus GnRH, GnIH, Kisspeptin (Kp), Proopiomelanocortin (POMC), Neuropeptide Y (NPY), as well as G protein-coupled receptor 147 (GPR147) were identified. The findings demonstrated that melatonin could suppress ovarian follicle and uterine wall growth as well as delay vaginal opening, decrease serum levels of GnRH and FSH and increase levels of GnIH. Melatonin increased GnIH and GPR147 expression in the hypothalamus in comparison to the saline group, while decreasing the expression of GnRH, Kisspeptin, POMC, and NPY. In conclusion, exogenous melatonin can inhibit the onset of puberty in female mice by modulating the expression of hypothalamic GnRH, GnIH, Kisspeptin, POMC and NPY neurons and suppressing the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis.
Association between Genetically Proxied Inhibition of HMG-CoA Reductase and Age at Onset of Huntington’s Disease
Authors: Zhu Yahui , Li Mao , Wang Hongfen , Yang Fei , Wang Jiao , Huang Xusheng
Published: November 2022

Background: Previous studies have found that statins may play a potential role in the age at onset (AAO) of Huntington’s disease (HD). We performed this Mendelian randomization (MR) study to assess the association between genetically proxied inhibition of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol with age at onset of HD. Methods: Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in HMG-CoA reductase associated with LDL cholesterol in a genome-wide association study (GWAS) analysis were used. The summary data of residual AAO of HD were obtained from a GWAS meta-analysis (n = 9064 HD patients). MR estimates representing lifelong inhibition of drug targets were generated using random-effects inverse-variance weighted analysis. Results: Genetically proxied plasma LDL cholesterol (β = 0.039, 95% CI = −0.454 to 0.531) and HMG-CoA reductase inhibition equivalent to a 1 mmol/L (38.7 mg/dL) reduction in LDL cholesterol (β = −2.228, 95% CI = −4.830 to 0.374) were not associated with age at onset of HD. Conclusion: The plasma LDL cholesterol levels and the reduction of plasma LDL cholesterol levels by the inhibition of HMG-CoA reductase (i.e., statins) were not associated with the age of HD onset.
Multi-Omics Alleviates the Limitations of Panel Sequencing for Cancer Drug Response Prediction
Authors: Baranovskii Artem , Gündüz Irem B. , Franke Vedran , Uyar Bora , Akalin Altuna
Published: November 2022

Comprehensive genomic profiling using cancer gene panels has been shown to improve treatment options for a variety of cancer types. However, genomic aberrations detected via such gene panels do not necessarily serve as strong predictors of drug sensitivity. In this study, using pharmacogenomics datasets of cell lines, patient-derived xenografts, and ex vivo treated fresh tumor specimens, we demonstrate that utilizing the transcriptome on top of gene panel features substantially improves drug response prediction performance in cancer.
Quantitative Relaxometry Metrics for Brain Metastases Compared to Normal Tissues: A Pilot MR Fingerprinting Study
Authors: Konar Amaresha Shridhar , Shah Akash Deelip , Paudyal Ramesh , Fung Maggie , Banerjee Suchandrima , Dave Abhay , Hatzoglou Vaios , Shukla-Dave Amita
Published: November 2022

The purpose of the present pilot study was to estimate T1 and T2 metric values derived simultaneously from a new, rapid Magnetic Resonance Fingerprinting (MRF) technique, as well as to assess their ability to characterize—brain metastases (BM) and normal-appearing brain tissues. Fourteen patients with BM underwent MRI, including prototype MRF, on a 3T scanner. In total, 108 measurements were analyzed: 42 from solid parts of BM’s (21 each on T1 and T2 maps) and 66 from normal-appearing brain tissue (11 ROIs each on T1 and T2 maps for gray matter [GM], white matter [WM], and cerebrospinal fluid [CSF]). The BM’s mean T1 and T2 values differed significantly from normal-appearing WM (p < 0.05). The mean T1 values from normal-appearing GM, WM, and CSF regions were 1205 ms, 840 ms, and 4233 ms, respectively. The mean T2 values were 108 ms, 78 ms, and 442 ms, respectively. The mean T1 and T2 values for untreated BM (n = 4) were 2035 ms and 168 ms, respectively. For treated BM (n = 17) the T1 and T2 values were 2163 ms and 141 ms, respectively. MRF technique appears to be a promising and rapid quantitative method for the characterization of free water content and tumor morphology in BMs.
The Association of R-Loop Binding Proteins Subtypes with CIN Implicates Therapeutic Strategies in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Zhao Wenchao , Pei Qian , Zhu Yongwei , Zhan Dongdong , Mao Guo , Wang Meng , Qiu Yanfang , Zuo Ke , Pei Haiping , Sun Lun-Quan , Wen Ming , Tan Rong
Published: November 2022

Chromosomal instability (CIN) covers approximately 65 to 70% of colorectal cancer patients and plays an essential role in cancer progression. However, the molecular features and therapeutic strategies related to those patients are still controversial. R-loop binding proteins (RLBPs) exert significant roles in transcription and replication. Here, integrative colorectal cancer proteogenomic analysis identified two RLBPs subtypes correlated with distinct prognoses. Cluster I (CI), represented by high expression of RLBPs, was associated with the CIN phenotype. While Cluster II (CII) with the worst prognosis and low expression of RLBPs was composed of a high percentage of patients with mucinous adenocarcinoma or right-sided colon cancer. The molecular feature analysis revealed that the active RNA processing, ribosome synthesis, and aberrant DNA damage repair were shown in CI, a high inflammatory signaling pathway, and lymphocyte infiltration was enriched in CII. In addition, we revealed 42 tumor-associated RLBPs proteins. The CI with high expression of tumor-associated proteins was sensitive to drugs targeting genome integrity and EGFR in both cell and organoid models. Thus, our study unveils a significant molecular association of the CIN phenotype with RLBPs, and also provides a powerful resource for further functional exploration of RLBPs in cancer progression and therapeutic application.
CD155 Cooperates with PD-1/PD-L1 to Promote Proliferation of Esophageal Squamous Cancer Cells via PI3K/Akt and MAPK Signaling Pathways
Authors: Tang Xiyang , Yang Jie , Shi Anping , Xiong Yanlu , Wen Miaomiao , Luo Zhonglin , Tian Huanhuan , Zheng Kaifu , Liu Yujian , Shu Chen , Ma Nan , Wang Rui , Zhao Jinbo
Published: November 2022

Background: Esophageal cancer is still a leading cause of death among all tumors in males, with unsatisfactory responses to novel immunotherapies such as anti-PD-1 agents. Herein, we explored the role of CD155 in esophageal squamous cell cancer (ESCA) and its underlying molecular mechanisms. Methods: Publicly available datasets were used for differential gene expression and immune infiltration analyses, and their correlation with patient survival. A total of 322 ESCA and 161 paracancer samples were collected and evaluated by performing immunohistochemistry and the H score was obtained by performing semiquantitative analysis. In vitro transfection of ESCA cell lines with lentivirus vectors targeting CD155 was performed to knockdown the protein. These cells were analyzed by conducting RNA sequencing, and the effects of CD155 knockdown on cell cycle and apoptosis were verified with flow cytometry and Western blotting. In addition, in vivo experiments using these engineered cell lines were performed to determine the role of CD155 in tumor formation. A small interfering RNA-mediated knockdown of Nectin3 was used to determine whether it phenocopied the profile of CD155 knockdown. Results: CD155 is highly expressed in ESCA tissues and is positively associated with PD1, PDL1, CD4, IL2RA, and S100A9 expression. Furthermore, CD155 knockdown inhibited ESCA cells’ proliferation by impairing the cell cycle and inducing cell apoptosis. Bioinformatics analysis of the gene expression profile of these engineered cells showed that CD155 mainly contributed to the regulation of PI3K/Akt and MAPK signals. The downregulation of Nectin3 expression phenocopied the profile of CD155 knockdown. Discussion: CD155 may cooperate with PD-1/PD-L1 to support ESCA proliferation in ways other than regulating its underlying immune mechanisms. Indeed, CD155 downregulation can impair ESCA cell pro-cancerous behavior via the inhibition of the PI3K/Akt and MAPK signaling pathways. Moreover, Nectin3 may be a ligand of CD155 and participate in the regulation of ESCA cells’ proliferation. Hence, the inhibition of CD155 may enhance the therapeutic effect of anti-PD-1 immunotherapies in ESCA.
2-Deoxyglucose, an Inhibitor of Glycolysis, Enhances the Oncolytic Effect of Coxsackievirus
Authors: Vorobyev Pavel , Kochetkov Dmitry , Chumakov Peter , Zakirova Natalia , Zotova-Nefedorova Sofia , Vasilenko Konstantin , Alekseeva Olga , Kochetkov Sergey , Bartosch Birke , Lipatova Anastasiya , Ivanov Alexander
Published: November 2022

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is one of the most common types of brain tumor. Despite intensive research, patients with GBM have a poor prognosis due to a very high rate of relapse and significant side effects of the treatment, with a median survival of 14.6 months. Oncolytic viruses are considered a promising strategy to eliminate GBM and other types of cancer, and several viruses have already been introduced into clinical practice. However, identification of the factors that underly the sensitivity of tumor species to oncolytic viruses or that modulate their clinical efficacy remains an important target. Here, we show that Coxsackievirus B5 (CVB5) demonstrates high oncolytic potential towards GBM primary cell species and cell lines. Moreover, 2-deoxyglucose (2DG), an inhibitor of glycolysis, potentiates the cytopathic effects of CVB5 in most of the cancer cell lines tested. The cells in which the inhibition of glycolysis enhanced oncolysis are characterized by high mitochondrial respiratory activity and glycolytic capacity, as determined by Seahorse analysis. Thus, 2-deoxyglucose and other analogs should be considered as adjuvants for oncolytic therapy of glioblastoma multiforme.
Hydrogenation of CO2 to Olefins over Iron-Based Catalysts: A Review
Authors: Liu Wenqi , Cheng Sifan , Malhi Haripal Singh , Gao Xinhua , Zhang Zhenzhou , Tu Weifeng
Published: November 2022

The widespread use of fossil fuels has caused high CO2 concentrations in the atmosphere, which have had a great impact on climate and the environment. Methods for efficiently utilizing CO2 to produce high value-added chemicals have received increasing attention. Among the products of CO2 hydrogenation, olefins, an important petrochemical feedstock, are one of the essential target products. Therefore, CO2 hydrogenation to olefins has been extensively studied, especially for the development of high-performance catalysts. Iron-based catalysts, which are widely used in Fischer–Tropsch synthesis reactions, have also been considered attractive for use in the CO2 hydrogenation to olefins due to their excellent performance in catalytic activity and reaction stability. Most studies have focused on the modulation of morphology; reduction and adsorption properties by tuning the methods of catalyst syntheses; pretreatment conditions and the composition of catalysts, in order to improve hydrogenation activity and olefin yield. In this review, we briefly discuss a thermodynamic overview of the CO2 hydrogenation to olefins reaction, the optimization of catalyst modifications, and current insights into the reaction mechanism; moreover, we summarize current challenges and future trends in the CO2 hydrogenation to olefins.
Herpes Simplex Type 1 UL43 Multiple Membrane-Spanning Protein Increases Energy Metabolism in Host Cells through Interacting with ARL2
Authors: Deng Jianshan , Zhong Zhiying , Geng Chengxu , Dai Zhenning , Zheng Weihan , Li Ziyue , Yan Zi , Yang Jiaxin , Deng Wenfeng , Tan Wei , Sun Hanxiao , Li Shiyu
Published: November 2022

Non-essential proteins for viral replication affect host cell metabolism, while the function of the UL43 protein of herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) is not clear. Herein, we performed a comprehensive microarray analysis of HUVEC cells infected with HSV-1 and its UL43-deficient mutant and found significant variation in genes associated with cellular energy metabolic pathways. The localization of UL43 protein in host cells and how it affects cellular energy metabolism pathways were further investigated. Internalization analysis showed that the UL43 protein could be endocytosis-mediated by YPLF motif (aa144–147) and localized to mitochondria. At the same time, more ATP was produced by coupling with mitochondrial small G protein ARF-like 2 (ARL2) GTPase, which triggered the phosphorylation of ANT1 (SLC25A4) to affect the opening degree of mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP), and significantly promoted the aerobic oxidation and oxidative phosphorylation of glucose. Our study shows that UL43 mediates the improvement of host cell metabolism after HSV-1 infection. Additionally, UL43 protein could be a valuable ATP-stimulating factor for mammalian cells.
Quantitative Phase Imaging Detecting the Hypoxia-Induced Patterns in Healthy and Neoplastic Human Colonic Epithelial Cells
Authors: Buzalewicz Igor , Mrozowska Monika , Kmiecik Alicja , Kulus Michał , Haczkiewicz-Leśniak Katarzyna , Dzięgiel Piotr , Podhorska-Okołów Marzenna , Zadka Łukasz
Published: November 2022

Hypoxia is a frequent phenomenon during carcinogenesis and may lead to functional and structural changes in proliferating cancer cells. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common neoplasms in which hypoxia is associated with progression. The aim of this study was to assess the optical parameters and microanatomy of CRC and the normal intestinal epithelium cells using the digital holotomography (DHT) method. The examination was conducted on cancer (HT-29, LoVo) and normal colonic cells (CCD-18Co) cultured in normoxic and hypoxic environments. The assessment included optical parameters such as the refractive index (RI) and dry mass as well as the morphological features. Hypoxia decreased the RI in all cells as well as in their cytoplasm, nucleus, and nucleoli. The opposite tendency was noted for spheroid-vesicular structures, where the RI was higher for the hypoxic state. The total volume of hypoxic CCD-18Co and LoVo cells was decreased, while an increase in this parameter was observed for HT-29 cells. Hypoxia increased the radius and cell volume, including the dry mass of the vesicular content. The changes in the optics and morphology of hypoxic cells may suggest the possibility of using DHT in the detection of circulating tumor cells (CTCs).
RNA N6-Methyladenosine (m6A) Methyltransferase-like 3 Facilitates Tumorigenesis and Cisplatin Resistance of Arecoline-Exposed Oral Carcinoma
Authors: Wang Chuang , Kadigamuwa Chamila , Wu Songlv , Gao Yijun , Chen Wuya , Gu Yangcong , Wang Shengli , Li Xia
Published: November 2022

Background: Arecoline is known as the main active carcinogen found in areca nut extract that drives the pathological progression of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Studies have revealed that dysregulation of RNA N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methyltransferase components is intimately linked to cancer initiation and progression, including oral cancer. Methods: The arecoline-induced dysregulated methyltransferase-like 3 (METTL3) gene was identified using RNA-seq transcriptome assay. Using in vitro and in vivo models, the biological roles of METTL3 in arecoline-transformed oral cancer were examined. Results: We found that METTL3 was markedly elevated in arecoline-exposed OSCC cell lines and OSCC tissues of areca nut chewers. We identified that hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha (HIF-1α) stimulated METTL3 expression at the transcriptional level and further proved that METTL3-MYC-HIF-1α formed a positive autoregulation loop in arecoline-transformed OSCC cells. Subsequently, we manifested that METTL3 depletion profoundly reduced cell proliferation, cell migration, oncogenicity, and cisplatin resistance of arecoline-exposed OSCC cells. Conclusions: Developing novel strategies to target METTL3 may be a potential way to treat OSCC patients, particularly those with areca nut chewing history and receiving cisplatin treatment.
CRISPR-Cas9 Technology for the Creation of Biological Avatars Capable of Modeling and Treating Pathologies: From Discovery to the Latest Improvements
Authors: Nasrallah Ali , Sulpice Eric , Kobaisi Farah , Gidrol Xavier , Rachidi Walid
Published: November 2022

This is a spectacular moment for genetics to evolve in genome editing, which encompasses the precise alteration of the cellular DNA sequences within various species. One of the most fascinating genome-editing technologies currently available is Clustered Regularly Interspaced Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR) and its associated protein 9 (CRISPR-Cas9), which have integrated deeply into the research field within a short period due to its effectiveness. It became a standard tool utilized in a broad spectrum of biological and therapeutic applications. Furthermore, reliable disease models are required to improve the quality of healthcare. CRISPR-Cas9 has the potential to diversify our knowledge in genetics by generating cellular models, which can mimic various human diseases to better understand the disease consequences and develop new treatments. Precision in genome editing offered by CRISPR-Cas9 is now paving the way for gene therapy to expand in clinical trials to treat several genetic diseases in a wide range of species. This review article will discuss genome-editing tools: CRISPR-Cas9, Zinc Finger Nucleases (ZFNs), and Transcription Activator-Like Effector Nucleases (TALENs). It will also encompass the importance of CRISPR-Cas9 technology in generating cellular disease models for novel therapeutics, its applications in gene therapy, and challenges with novel strategies to enhance its specificity.
Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester Induces Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Production and Inhibits CXCL10 Production in Human Dental Pulp Cells
Authors: Kuramoto Hitomi , Nakanishi Tadashi , Takegawa Daisuke , Mieda Katsuhiro , Hosaka Keiichi
Published: November 2022

The survival rate of root non-vital teeth is lower than that of vital teeth. Therefore, to preserve the dental pulp is very important. The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is the most potent angiogenic factor involved in the vitality of dental pulp including reparative dentin formation. Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) is a physiologically active substance of propolis and has some bioactivities such as anti-inflammatory effects. However, there are no reports on the effects of CAPE on dental pulp inflammation. In this study, we investigated the effects of CAPE on VEGF and inflammatory cytokine production in human dental pulp cells (HDPCs) to apply CAPE to an ideal dental pulp protective agent. We found that CAPE induced VEGF production from HDPCs. Moreover, CAPE induced the phosphorylation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK), and stress-activated protein kinase/c-Jun N-terminal kinase (SAP/JNK) in HDPCs. Furthermore, CAPE inhibited C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 10 (CXCL10) production in Pam3CSK4- and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α)-stimulated HDPCs. In conclusion, these results suggest that CAPE might be useful as a novel biological material for vital pulp therapy by exerting the effects of VEGF production and anti-inflammatory activities.
A Community Capitals Assessment of Climate Adaptations to Traditional Milpa Farming Practices in Mayan Communities of Southern Belize
Authors: Drexler Kristin
Published: November 2022

Climate change has exacerbated food and livelihood insecurity for Mayan milpa farmers in Central America. For centuries, milpa farming has been sustainable for subsistence; however, in the last 50 years, milpas have become less reliable due to accelerating climate change, resource degradation, declining markets, poverty, and other factors. Increasing climate-smart agriculture (CSA) practices may be needed. Using interviews with extension leaders and milpa farmers in Belize, this qualitative study examines the capacity for increasing CSA aspects of existing traditional milpa practices, specifically no-burn mulching, soil enrichment, and the use of cover plants. Applying a modified Community Capitals Framework, this study finds four key capitals were perceived by farmers and agriculture extension leaders as barriers for increasing CSA practices. Recommendations to reduce the key barriers include reinstating markets and crop-buying programs and easing border customs restrictions (Governance-Justice and Financial Capitals), improving roads and cellular access for farmers (Infrastructure Capital), and increasing budgets and resources for agriculture extension services and building farmer capacity for CSA practices of mulching, soil enrichment, and cover plants (Human-Capacity Capital). Reducing barriers to these key capitals can facilitate an increase in milpa CSA practices and crop productivity, promote food and livelihood security, and enable climate resilience of Mayan milpa communities in Belize.
Research on Distribution Model and Detection Spacing of Compaction Degree of Asphalt Pavement Based on the PQI Method
Authors: Li Yanli , Zhang Haiwei , Peng Yatao , Li Yan , Wang Ke
Published: November 2022

The pavement quality indicator (PQI) is a non-destructive piece of equipment for detecting the compaction degree of asphalt pavement, which can avoid primary damage to the pavement compared with the traditional core-drilling method. In this paper, the PQI method was applied to evaluate the compaction quality of asphalt pavement through data collection, calibration and statistical analysis, and the probability-distribution characteristics of compaction degree were also explored, by fitting the data with probability-distribution models. Furthermore, the optimal detection-spacing was determined by comparing the statistical results of compaction degree measured at different detection-spacings. Test results showed that the calibrated PQI data was close to the actual data of the core sample, and their error rate was within 1%. The compaction degree of the test road was mostly located between 92% and 99%, and the variable coefficient was entirely below 2%, demonstrating that the pavement-compaction quality was satisfactory and uniform. The normal distribution model, lognormal distribution model and extreme-value distribution model had relatively high accuracy in fitting the compaction-degree frequency data, while the sine-wave distribution model was low in fitting accuracy. By comparing the predicted value with the actual value of compaction degree, the normal distribution model was determined as the most appropriate model for describing the frequency distribution of compaction degree. In addition, the detection spacing was selected as 50 m, considering the reliability, accuracy and efficiency. The research results provide technical support for the compaction quality-control of asphalt pavement in a non-destructive, timely, accurate and multi-point manner, ultimately contributing to the excellent service performance and service life of asphalt pavement.
Interfacial Modification of Ti3AlC2/Cu Composites by Multi-Arc Ion Plating Titanium
Authors: Wang Yiran , Gao Yimin , Fan Yilei
Published: November 2022

Cu matrix composites reinforced with Ti3AlC2 ceramics can be applied for electrical contact materials, such as vacuum contact material or a pantograph slide plate. However, Ti3AlC2 particles substantially decomposed because lattice diffusion is the main way that Al atoms diffused into the Cu matrix and were uniformly distributed. In order to suppress the decomposition of Ti3AlC2 ceramics and improve the properties of Ti3AlC2/Cu composites, the surface of Ti3AlC2 was modified by multi-arc ion plating Ti. The results shows that, with the volume fraction increasing of Ti3AlC2, the decomposition of Ti3AlC2 is exacerbated and the lattice constant of Cu(Al) solid solution is bigger. In the meanwhile, the structure of Ti3AlC2 changes from dispersed granules to flakes, then to a continuous network. Multi-arc ion plating Ti effectively inhibits the diffusion of Al atoms into Cu matrix. The Ti coating reacts with Cu and generates CuxTi in the interface between the Cu and Ti coating, which inhibits the diffusion of Al atoms so as to inhibit decomposition., the inhibition of decomposition of Ti3AlC2 ceramics weakened solid solution strengthening and decreased the content of hard phase TiCx. Furthermore, the good mutual diffusion between CuxTi layer and Cu effectively improves the interfacial bonding strength.
First-Principle Investigation of Hypothetical NiF4 Crystal Structures
Authors: Lindič Tilen , Schulz Anthony , Paulus Beate
Published: November 2022

An important synthetic route for the fluorinated organic compounds is electrochemical fluorination (ECF). This is a process taking place on a nickel anode immersed in anhydrous HF. Even though the mechanism is not fully resolved, it is believed that it involves higher valent nickel fluorides formed on the anode. One such compound could be NiF4. Its synthesis and existence have been reported in the literature. However, its crystal structure has so far remained unknown. In this paper, we present, for the first time, the theoretical study of the possible crystal structure of NiF4. We investigated six crystal structures of known metal tetrafluorides as possible candidates for NiF4 by periodic DFT, with the PBE+U method. Of the investigated structures, the most stable polymorph of NiF4 was found to be of the same crystal structure as RuF4. The unit cell parameters were calculated to be a = 4.80 Å, b = 5.14 Å, c = 5.18 Å and β = 105.26∘. All but one of the investigated structures feature octahedrally coordinated nickel centers with two non-bridging fluorine atoms. In the structure originating from ZrF4, all six fluorine atoms around the nickel centers are bridging and two are located in the vacancies around the nickel skeleton, not directly bound to nickel. The overall magnetic arrangement in all the investigated structures is antiferromagnetic. A comparison with other binary nickel fluorides supports the experimental findings that NiF4 is thermodynamically the least stable.
Multidisciplinary Treatment of Liver Metastases from Intracranial SFTs/HPCs: A Report of Three Consecutive Cases
Authors: Krendl Felix J. , Messner Franka , Laimer Gregor , Djanani Angela , Seeber Andreas , Oberhuber Georg , Öfner Dietmar , Wolf Dominik , Schneeberger Stefan , Bale Reto , Margreiter Christian
Published: November 2022

In the 2016 WHO classification of tumors of the central nervous system, hemangiopericytomas (HPCs) and solitary fibrous tumors (SFTs) were integrated into a new entity (SFT/HPC). Metastases to bone, liver, lung, and abdominal cavity are of concern. Only 37 cases of patients with liver metastases due to intracranial SFTs/HPCs have been reported. Herein, we present our experience in the management of patients with liver metastases from intracranial SFTs/HCPs. All consecutive patients who were treated for liver metastases from intracranial SFTs/HPCs from January 2014 to December 2020 were enrolled. Overall, three patients were treated for liver metastasis from SFTs/HPCs with curative intent. Two patients with bilobar metastases at presentation required surgical resection, transarterial embolization, stereotactic radiofrequency ablation (SRFA) and systemic therapy. One patient with a singular right liver lobe metastasis was treated with SRFA alone. This patient shows no evidence of liver metastases 39 months following diagnosis. Of the two patients with bilobar disease, one died 89 months following diagnosis, while one is still alive 73 months following diagnosis. Long-term survival can be achieved using a multimodal treatment concept, including surgery, loco-regional and systemic therapies. Referral to a specialized tertiary cancer center and comprehensive long-term follow-up examinations are essential.
Selection of Elms Tolerant to Dutch Elm Disease in South-West Romania
Authors: Chira Dănuț , Borlea Florian G. , Chira Florentina , Mantale Costel Ș. , Ciocîrlan Mihnea I. C. , Turcu Daniel O. , Cadar Nicolae , Trotta Vincenzo , Camele Ippolito , Marcone Carmine , Mang Ștefania M.
Published: November 2022

Ophiostoma novo-ulmi continues to be one of the most dangerous invasive fungi, destroying many autochthonous elm forests and cultures throughout the world. Searching for natural genotypes tolerant to Dutch elm disease (DED) is one of the main objectives of silviculturists all over the northern hemisphere in order to save the susceptible elms and to restore their ecosystem biodiversity. In this regard, the first trial was established between 1991 and 1994, in south-west Romania (Pădurea Verde, Timișoara), using three elm species (Ulmus minor, U. glabra, and U. laevis) with 38 provenances. A local strain of Ophiostoma novo-ulmi was used to artificially inoculate all elm variants and the DED evolution was observed. Furthermore, in 2018–2021 the trial was inventoried to understand the local genotype reaction to DED in the local environmental conditions after almost 30 years. The outcomes of the present study proved the continuous presence of the infections in the comparative culture and its proximity, but the identified pathogen had a new hybrid form (found for the first time in Romania) between O. novo-ulmi ssp. americana x O. novo-ulmi ssp. novo-ulmi. Wych elm (U. glabra) was extremely sensitive to DED: only 12 trees (out of 69 found in 2018) survived in 2021, and only one tree could be selected according to the adopted health criteria (resistance and vigour). The field elm (U. minor) was sensitive to the pathogen, but there were still individuals that showed good health status and growth. In contrast, the European white elm (U. laevis) proved constant tolerance to DED: only 15% had been found dead or presented severe symptoms of dieback. Overall, the results of this study report the diverse reactions of the Romanian regional elm genotypes to DED over the last three decades, providing promising perspectives for improving the presence of elms in the forest ecosystems of the Carpathian basin.
First Results on Heteroptera (Hemiptera) of Dry Grassland in Malpaga-Basella Nature Reserve (Italy)
Authors: Limonta Lidia , Gaini Paolo , Dioli Paride
Published: November 2022

The Nature Reserve Malpaga-Basella, located along the Serio River in Lombardy, was recently established in 2017. It is interesting as it presents plant species typical in dry grassland habitats, not present in the surrounding area. In this study, Heteroptera were surveyed in the Nature Reserve and in a bordering giant Miscanthus crop in 2019. The biodiversity of the reserve was well characterized by the presence of species linked to arid environments with steppe or Mediterranean characteristics, like Antheminia lunulata. Four species new for Lombardy were collected, Lygus italicus, Drymus pilipes, Ortholomus punctipennis, and Arenocoris waltlii. Giant Miscanthus hosted only a few ubiquitous species, also collected in the Nature Reserve.
Prioritizing Areas for Primate Conservation in Argentina
Authors: Agostini Ilaria , Velazco Santiago José Elías , Insaurralde Juan Ariel , Pavé Romina , Holzmann Ingrid , Fernández-Duque Eduardo , Tujague María Paula , Peker Silvana , Kowalewski Martín M. , Di Bitetti Mario Santiago
Published: November 2022

Argentina lies within the southernmost distributional range of five neotropical primates, the brown howler monkey Alouatta guariba, the black-and-gold howler monkey Alouatta caraya, the black-horned capuchin Sapajus nigritus, the Azara’s capuchin Sapajus cay, and the Azara’s owl monkey Aotus azarae; the first three of which are globally threatened. These species occupy different ecoregions: the Alto Paraná Atlantic forest, the Araucaria moist forest, the humid Chaco, the Southern Cone Mesopotamian savanna, the Paraná Ffooded savanna, and the Southern Andean Yungas. The recently approved National Primate Conservation Plan of Argentina calls for identifying priority areas to focus conservation actions for these species. We used species distribution models to estimate species ranges and then used the Zonation software to perform a spatial conservation prioritization analysis based on primate habitat quality and connectivity to identify potential areas of importance at national and ecoregional levels. Only 7.2% (19,500 km2) of the area inhabited by primates in Argentina is under protection. Outside the current protected areas, the top-ranked 1% and 5% priority areas identified in our analysis covered 1894 and 7574 km2, respectively. The top 1% areas were in the Atlantic forest of Misiones province, where S. nigritus, A. guariba, and A. caraya are distributed, and in the humid portion of eastern Chaco and Formosa provinces, where A. azarae and A. caraya are present. The top 5% areas included portions of the Yungas, where S. cay is the only primate present. Priority areas in Chaco and Formosa provinces are particularly relevant because of the paucity of protected areas and the high deforestation rate. The endangered A. guariba population will benefit from the better protection of the priority areas of Misiones. The potential priority areas proposed herein, considered within a context of a broad participatory process involving relevant stakeholders and local people, will help guide new and innovative conservation policies and practices while supporting management objectives.
New Imaging Features of Multinodular and Vacuolating Neuronal Tumor Revealed by Alcohol and Illicit Drugs Consumption
Authors: Sirbu Carmen Adella , Ștefani Constantin , Tuță Sorin , Manole Aida Mihaela , Sirbu Octavian Mihai , Ivan Raluca , Toma Gabriela Simona , Calu Alexandra Giorgiana , Jianu Dragos Catalin
Published: November 2022

It has been almost a decade since the multinodular and vacuolating neuronal tumor (MVNT) was first described. In 2021, WHO classified it as a defined entity, and it is considered one of the glioneuronal and neuronal tumors. Due to its similarities with dysembryoplastic neuroepithelial tumors (DNET), some authors consider it a variant of these, ranking in the category of malformations, but genetic alterations favor a neoplastic origin. We present a 29-year-old male with a generalized onset tonic-clonic seizure after a nightclub party. Imaging studies revealed a right temporal multinodular and vacuolating neuronal tumor confirmed by biopsy. It is considered a nonaggressive, “leave me alone” brain lesion, which does not require biopsy because of well-defined MRI characteristics. Surgery is indicated only in symptomatic cases. We consider that this lesion was revealed by his seizure, most probably provoked (with normal video EEG recording) by the consumption of a lot of alcohol, illicit drugs, and sleep loss after a club party. We recommended close monitoring, but our patient preferred the surgery. Our case added more imaging details corroborated with the histopathology features of MVNT. FLAIR images revealed hypointense nodules surrounded by hyperintense peripheral rings and areas of high signal intensity between the nodules, which correspond to the histopathological architecture. To our knowledge, this is the first case of MVNT with diffusion tensor imaging and fiber tractography imaging studies.
Noninvasive Prediction of Advanced Fibrosis in Pediatric Liver Disease—Discriminatory Performance of 2D Shear Wave Elastography, Transient Elastography and Magnetic Resonance Elastography in Comparison to Histopathology
Authors: Nielsen Jon , Kjær Mette Skalshøi , Rasmussen Allan , Chiranth Deepthi , Willemoe Gro Linno , Henriksen Birthe Merete , Borgwardt Lotte , Grand Mia Klinten , Borgwardt Lise , Christensen Vibeke Brix
Published: November 2022

Background: Elastography can be measured with different imaging techniques and is increasingly used for noninvasive assessment of hepatic fibrosis. Little is known about the performance, and interrelation of different elastographic techniques, in prediction of hepatic fibrosis in pediatric liver disease. Objectives: We aimed to determine the discriminatory value for advanced fibrosis (Metavir F3-4) and evaluate the applicability of 2D shear wave ultrasound elastography (USe), Transient Elastography (TE) and Magnetic Resonance elastography (MRe) in pediatric liver disease. Methods: In patients with pediatric liver disease aged 0–19 years, USe, TE and MRe were compared with histopathological fibrosis stage. Multivariate logistic regression models for advanced fibrosis were considered. Discriminative performance was assessed by the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve and the Brier Score. Primary analyses included complete cases. Multiple imputation was used as sensitivity analysis. Results: In 93 histologically evaluated patients USe, TE and MRe were performed 89, 93 and 61 times respectively. With increased liver stiffness values, significantly increased odds for presenting F3-4 were seen in individual models for ALT < 470 U/L, whereas the effect for ALT > 470 U/L was non-significant. Area under the curve and Brier Score for discrimination of advanced fibrosis were 0.798 (0.661–0.935) and 0.115 (0.064–0.166); 0.862 (0.758–0.966) and 0.118 (0.065–0.171); 0.896 (0.798–0.994) and 0.098 (0.049–0.148) for USe, TE and MRe respectively. No significant increase in discriminatory ability was found when combining elastographic modalities. Conclusions: In pediatric liver disease, USe, TE and MRe had a good discriminatory ability for assessment of advanced liver fibrosis, although TE and MRe performed best. In most children with pediatric liver disease, TE is a reliable and easily applicable measure.
A 3-D Full Convolution Electromagnetic Reconstruction Neural Network (3-D FCERNN) for Fast Super-Resolution Electromagnetic Inversion of Human Brain
Authors: Cheng Yu , Xiao Li-Ye , Zhao Le-Yi , Hong Ronghan , Liu Qing Huo
Published: November 2022

Three-dimensional (3-D) super-resolution microwave imaging of human brain is a typical electromagnetic (EM) inverse scattering problem with high contrast. It is a challenge for the traditional schemes based on deterministic or stochastic inversion methods to obtain high contrast and high resolution, and they require huge computational time. In this work, a dual-module 3-D EM inversion scheme based on deep neural network is proposed. The proposed scheme can solve the inverse scattering problems with high contrast and super-resolution in real time and reduce a huge computational cost. In the EM inversion module, a 3-D full convolution EM reconstruction neural network (3-D FCERNN) is proposed to nonlinearly map the measured scattered field to a preliminary image of 3-D electrical parameter distribution of the human brain. The proposed 3-D FCERNN is completely composed of convolution layers, which can greatly save training cost and improve model generalization compared with fully connected networks. Then, the image enhancement module employs a U-Net to further improve the imaging quality from the results of 3-D FCERNN. In addition, a dataset generation strategy based on the human brain features is proposed, which can solve the difficulty of human brain dataset collection and high training cost. The proposed scheme has been confirmed to be effective and accurate in reconstructing the distribution of 3-D super-resolution electrical parameters distribution of human brain through noise-free and noisy examples, while the traditional EM inversion method is difficult to converge in the case of high contrast and strong scatterers. Compared with our previous work, the training of FCERNN is faster and can significantly decrease computational resources.