bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Solar–Hydrogen Storage System: Architecture and Integration Design of University Energy Management Systems
Authors: Joshua Salaki Reynaldo , Yeon An Na , Park Sanguk , Kwon Kihyeon
Published: May 2024

As a case study on sustainable energy use in educational institutions, this study examines the design and integration of a solar–hydrogen storage system within the energy management framework of Kangwon National University’s Samcheok Campus. This paper provides an extensive analysis of the architecture and integrated design of such a system, which is necessary given the increasing focus on renewable energy sources and the requirement for effective energy management. This study starts with a survey of the literature on hydrogen storage techniques, solar energy storage technologies, and current university energy management systems. In order to pinpoint areas in need of improvement and chances for progress, it also looks at earlier research on solar–hydrogen storage systems. This study’s methodology describes the system architecture, which includes fuel cell integration, electrolysis for hydrogen production, solar energy harvesting, hydrogen storage, and an energy management system customized for the needs of the university. This research explores the energy consumption characteristics of the Samcheok Campus of Kangwon National University and provides recommendations for the scalability and scale of the suggested system by designing three architecture systems of microgrids with EMS Optimization for solar–hydrogen, hybrid solar–hydrogen, and energy storage. To guarantee effective and safe functioning, control strategies and safety considerations are also covered. Prototype creation, testing, and validation are all part of the implementation process, which ends with a thorough case study of the solar–hydrogen storage system’s integration into the university’s energy grid. The effectiveness of the system, its effect on campus energy consumption patterns, its financial sustainability, and comparisons with conventional energy management systems are all assessed in the findings and discussion section. Problems that arise during implementation are addressed along with suggested fixes, and directions for further research—such as scalability issues and technology developments—are indicated. This study sheds important light on the viability and efficiency of solar–hydrogen storage systems in academic environments, particularly with regard to accomplishing sustainable energy objectives.
Pinning Energy and Evidence of Granularity in the AC Susceptibility of an YBa2Cu3O7-x Superconducting Film
Authors: Galluzzi Armando , Crisan Adrian , Ionescu Alina Marinela , Ivan Ion , Leo Antonio , Grimaldi Gaia , Polichetti Massimiliano
Published: May 2024

The study of granularity in superconducting films by using AC susceptibility has a crucial role in the development of and improvement in the ReBCO-coated conductors, which are a constantly evolving reality in the modern power applications of superconductivity. Specifically, the study of the granularity is essential because the ReBCO superconducting wires and tapes are far from the regularity of a single crystal while they often present an inter- and intragranular contribution to the critical current density. On the other hand, the AC susceptibility is a key part of the characterization of a granular sample because this technique is very sensitive to the presence of granularity in the superconductors and, moreover, the study of its first harmonic allows for determining pivotal properties such as the pinning energy as well as the dissipation processes acting in the sample. The pinning energy values and the granularity of an YBCO thin film have been studied by means of AC susceptibility measurements as a function of the AC amplitude, temperature, and DC field. In particular, the first harmonic imaginary component of the AC susceptibility χ1″ related to the dissipation processes of the sample has been studied. First, starting from the Brandt approach, the critical current density Jc and the pinning energy U of the sample have been extracted at 77 K by using the χ1″ measurements as a function of the AC amplitude at different AC frequencies and DC fields. From these measurements, a first signal of granularity appears. In order to confirm it, the temperature dependence of the χ1″ at different DC fields has been studied and a contribution deriving from the inter- and intragranular part of the sample has emerged. By taking the temperature corresponding to the crossover between the two contributions at the different DC fields, the intergranular and intragranular response has been separated. Successively, the temperature has been fixed to 77 K, together with an AC frequency equal to 1597.9 Hz, and the χ1″ as a function of the DC field at different AC amplitudes has been analyzed showing a clear presence of granularity in all the curves. By drawing the contour plot of the χ1″ with the DC and AC values, it was possible to determine the best parameters to put at 77 K in order to exploit the material for applications.
A Method for Evaluating the Maturity Level of Production Process Automation in the Context of Digital Transformation—Polish Case Study
Authors: Hetmanczyk Mariusz Piotr
Published: May 2024

This paper puts forth a systematic approach for evaluating the maturity level of production process automation in the context of digital transformation for manufacturing companies. The method was developed to address the absence of a sector-specific framework for assessing automation maturity growth, in line with the Industry 5.0 guidelines (incorporating sustainability, the circular economy, and human-centeredness). The survey covers six core areas for manufacturing companies: automation, robotization of production processes, digitalization of warehouse processes, flexibility, intralogistics, and end-to-end integration of key data management processes. The study aimed to advance digitalization through improved process automation maturity. The study surveyed 200 small- and medium-sized businesses operating in Poland from 2022 to 2024. The study presents a method for assessing enterprise operational maturity, covering the current and planned levels and the development plans for the next three years.
Stability and Distribution of Rock Slope under Asymmetric Excavation
Authors: Li Ming , Xiang Peng , Shen Hengxiang , Ji Hongguang , Quan Daolu , Wang Wensheng
Published: May 2024

The asymmetric excavation unloading activity of a rock slope with a fault has an important influence on the stability of the slope and the division of the surrounding surface influence area. Based on the engineering background of the West Open-Pit Mine in Fushun City, orthogonal testing, K-means clustering, range analysis, and variance analysis were used to study the linkage mechanism of the asymmetric excavation unloading action and the weak structure in the rock slope, as well as their effects on slope stability and the influence area. This analysis showed that the significant factors affecting the stability zones of the north and south slopes were the excavation inclination angles of the opposite slopes. When the excavation inclination of the north slope increased by 10 degrees, the safety factors decreased by 25.9% and 16.6%. When the excavation inclination of the south slope increased by 10 degrees, the safety factors decreased by 13.7% and 1.9%. A second significant factor was the excavation depth. The occurrence of faults in the slope was the main factor affecting the range of slope instability. In order to ensure production safety, the excavation inclination angle of a slope with a fault should be limited to no more than 40°, and the excavation depth of an unstable area with two slopes should be designed to be no more than 450 m. The influence of asymmetric excavation unloading on the stability of a rock slope with a fault structure is expounded. This also provides a theoretical basis for controlling slope stability and influence areas in large-scale open-pit mining projects.
Multitask Learning-Based Affective Prediction for Videos of Films and TV Scenes
Authors: Su Zhibin , Lin Shige , Zhang Luyue , Feng Yiming , Jiang Wei
Published: May 2024

Film and TV video scenes contain rich art and design elements such as light and shadow, color, composition, and complex affects. To recognize the fine-grained affects of the art carrier, this paper proposes a multitask affective value prediction model based on an attention mechanism. After comparing the characteristics of different models, a multitask prediction framework based on the improved progressive layered extraction (PLE) architecture (multi-headed attention and factor correlation-based PLE), incorporating a multi-headed self-attention mechanism and correlation analysis of affective factors, is constructed. Both the dynamic and static features of a video are chosen as fusion input, while the regression of fine-grained affects and classification of whether a character exists in a video are designed as different training tasks. Considering the correlation between different affects, we propose a loss function based on association constraints, which effectively solves the problem of training balance within tasks. Experimental results on a self-built video dataset show that the algorithm can give full play to the complementary advantages of different features and improve the accuracy of prediction, which is more suitable for fine-grained affect mining of film and TV scenes.
Modification of Insulating Properties of Surfaces of Dielectric High-Voltage Devices Using Plasma
Authors: Pernica Roman , Klíma Miloš , Londák Pavel , Fiala Pavel
Published: May 2024

Plasma discharges under atmospheric pressure are applicable for modifying the electrical properties of dielectric surfaces. The aim of the plasma discharge treatment of such surfaces is to design a procedure so that its characteristic parameters improve the resulting levels of the breakdown electrical strength Eb when tested under pulsed or alternating electrical voltages. In this research, a set of functional experiments performed by using plasma in samples of two types of materials (thermoset, thermoplastic) were processed and evaluated, and the resulting effect of the magnitude of the breakdown electrical voltage, electrical intensity, and electrical conductivity of the surface were compared. A slit plasma chamber, previously described and parameterized, was employed to treat the surface of the dielectric samples. The surface structure was modified via plasma discharge without precursors, and methodologies were developed to evaluate these modifications with respect to the change in the electrical strength parameters of the insulator surface. Subsequently, the surface strength of the affected and unaffected samples was measured and evaluated as a function of exposure time, and the stability of the modification was assessed. The first methodical test showed that plasma discharge without precursors improved the long-term surface electrical strength of the dielectric surface. The test and its parameters were carried out with respect to feasibility in an industrial environment.
Study on Classification of Fishing Vessel Operation Types Based on Dilated CNN-IndRNN
Authors: Yu Jiachen , Fu Shunlong , Bao Xiongguan
Published: May 2024

At present, fishery resources are becoming increasingly depleted, and a reliable assessment of fishing activity is a key step in protecting marine resources. Correctly identifying the type of fishing operation can help identify illegal fishing vessels, strengthen fishing regulations, and prevent overfishing. Aiming to address these problems, this study first collects and preprocesses fishing vessel AIS data. Improvements are proposed on the basis of the convolutional neural network (CNN), long short-term memory (LSTM), and other models, changing the CNN to dilated CNN and LSTM to independently recurrent neural network (IndRNN). The results of the experiment show that the accuracy, precision, recall, and F-1 score of the model are finally obtained as 93.12%, 93.10%, 93.14%, and 93.10%, respectively. Overall, the new model proposed in this study offers a significant improvement in performance compared to the models of other scholars in the past.
The Brutalist Figure—Grid: Exploring New York Brutalism
Authors: Letzter Jonathan
Published: May 2024

The grid plays a prominent role in architecture, aiding in space organization and influencing all aspects of planning, ranging from urban design to intricate building details. This paper posits that the grid receives heightened emphasis in Brutalism, particularly in constructivist Brutalism, where materials and construction are intentionally exposed. A question arises regarding the grid’s characteristics—despite its subtle appearance, the grid can sometimes be deceptive, ambiguous, and manipulative. The paper analyzes the merits and drawbacks of employing the grid in architecture, shedding light on its contributions to both structural and perceptual comprehensibility, as well as its role in increasing usefulness. To illustrate the application and perception of the grid, the paper examines two primary planning levels: urban planning and building design. The case studies focus on examples from New York City housing developments, specifically those constructed between the 1950s and the 1970s, and projects by architect I. M. Pei, which offer valuable insights into practical implementation. The paper concludes that while the grid can establish order, it may also engender an “uncanny” feeling.
Images as a Hint to the Other World: The Use of Images as Mediators in Medieval and Early Modern Societies
Authors: Ferrer-Ventosa Roger
Published: May 2024

The Middle Ages and Early Modern periods saw the interpretation of reality through symbols, connecting the natural world to the divine using symbolic thinking and images. The idea of a correspondence between the human and universal macrocosm was prominent in various fields such as medicine, philosophy, and religion. Symbolism played a crucial role in approaching divine matters, with symbols serving as a means of direct presence and embodiment. Plato’s influence on Neoplatonist and Hermetic thinkers emphasized the role of dreams and eidola (images) for interpreting the divine. Contemplation of art and nature was an epistemological tool, seeking hidden cosmic harmony and understanding. Christianity embraced worshiping images as representations of the divine, granting believers a way to understand religious concepts. Icons were considered mirrors reflecting the spiritual and divine aspects. The medieval concept of speculum books as mirrors containing all knowledge offered instructional and subjective insights on various subjects. Speculum humanae salvationis illuminated books demonstrated the interplay between the Old and New Testaments, influencing artists like Rogier van der Weyden.
Comparison of Psychometric Functions Measured Using Remote Testing and Laboratory Testing
Authors: Srinivasan Nirmal , Patro Chhayakanta , Kansangra Radhika , Trotman Angelica
Published: May 2024

The use of remote testing to collect behavioral data has been on the rise, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. Here we present psychometric functions for a commonly used speech corpus obtained in remote testing and laboratory testing conditions on young normal hearing listeners in the presence of different types of maskers. Headphone use for the remote testing group was checked by supplementing procedures from prior literature using a Huggins pitch task. Results revealed no significant differences in the measured thresholds using the remote testing and laboratory testing conditions for all the three masker types. Also, the thresholds measured obtained in these two conditions were strongly correlated for a different group of young normal hearing listeners. Based on the results, excellent outcomes on auditory threshold measurements where the stimuli are presented both at levels lower than and above an individual’s speech-recognition threshold can be obtained by remotely testing the listeners.
Uniformly Shifted Exponential Distribution
Authors: Alzaid Abdulhamid. A. , Qarmalah Najla
Published: May 2024

The use of life distributions has increased over the past decade, receiving particular attention in recent years, both from a practical and theoretical point of view. Life distributions can be used in a number of applied fields, such as medicine, biology, public health, epidemiology, engineering, economics, and demography. This paper presents and investigates a new life distribution. The proposed model shows favorable characteristics in terms of reliability theory, which makes it competitive against other commonly used life distributions, such as the exponential, gamma, and Weibull distributions. The methods of maximum likelihood and moments are used to estimate the parameters of the proposed model. Additionally, real-life data drawn from different fields are used to illustrate the usefulness of the new distribution. Further, the R programming language is used to perform all computations and produce all graphs.
A Progressive Outlook on Possibility Multi-Fuzzy Soft Ordered Semigroups: Theory and Analysis
Authors: Habib Sana , Khan Faiz Muhammad , Leoreanu-Fotea Violeta
Published: May 2024

The concept of possibility fuzzy soft sets is a step in a new direction towards a soft set approach that can be used to solve decision-making issues. In this piece of research, an innovative and comprehensive conceptual framework for possibility multi-fuzzy soft ordered semigroups by making use of the notions that are associated with possibility multi-fuzzy soft sets as well as ordered semigroups is introduced. Possibility multi-fuzzy soft ordered semigroups mark a newly developed theoretical avenue, and the central aim of this paper is to investigate it. The focus lies on investigating this newly developed theoretical direction, with practical examples drawn from decision-making and diagnosis practices to enhance understanding and appeal to researchers’ interests. We strictly build the notions of possibility multi-fuzzy soft left (right) ideals, as well as l-idealistic and r-idealistic possibility multi-fuzzy soft ordered semigroups. Furthermore, various algebraic operations, such as union, intersection, as well as AND and OR operations are derived, while also providing a comprehensive discussion of their properties. To clarify these innovative ideas, the theoretical constructs are further reinforced with a set of demonstrative examples in order to guarantee deep and improved comprehension of the proposed framework.
A New Optimal Numerical Root-Solver for Solving Systems of Nonlinear Equations Using Local, Semi-Local, and Stability Analysis
Authors: Qureshi Sania , Chicharro Francisco I. , Argyros Ioannis K. , Soomro Amanullah , Alahmadi Jihan , Hincal Evren
Published: May 2024

This paper introduces an iterative method with a remarkable level of accuracy, namely fourth-order convergence. The method is specifically tailored to meet the optimality condition under the Kung–Traub conjecture by linear combination. This method, with an efficiency index of approximately 1.5874, employs a blend of localized and semi-localized analysis to improve both efficiency and convergence. This study aims to investigate semi-local convergence, dynamical analysis to assess stability and convergence rate, and the use of the proposed solver for systems of nonlinear equations. The results underscore the potential of the proposed method for several applications in polynomiography and other areas of mathematical research. The improved performance of the proposed optimal method is demonstrated with mathematical models taken from many domains, such as physics, mechanics, chemistry, and combustion, to name a few.
An Optimization Problem for Computing Predictive Potential of General Sum/Product-Connectivity Topological Indices of Physicochemical Properties of Benzenoid Hydrocarbons
Authors: Hayat Sakander , Arfan Azri , Khan Asad , Jamil Haziq , Alenazi Mohammed J. F.
Published: May 2024

For a graph G=(VG,EG), a degree-based graphical index GId takes the general form GId=∑xy∈EGϕ(dx,dy), where ϕ is a symmetric map and di is the degree of i∈VG. For α∈R, if ϕ=(dxdy)α (resp. ϕ=(dx+dy)α), the index is called the general product-connectivity Rα (resp. general sum-connectivity SCIα) index. In this paper, by formulating an optimization problem, we determine the value(s) of α, for which the linear/multiple correlation coefficient of Rα and SCIα with physicochemical properties of benzenoid hydrocarbons is the strongest. This, in turn, fills some research gaps left by similar studies in this area.
Explicit Numerical Manifold Characteristic Galerkin Method for Solving Burgers’ Equation
Authors: Sun Yue , Chen Qian , Chen Tao , Yong Longquan
Published: May 2024

This paper presents a nonstandard numerical manifold method (NMM) for solving Burgers’ equation. Employing the characteristic Galerkin method, we initially apply the Crank–Nicolson method for temporal discretization along the characteristic. Subsequently, utilizing the Taylor expansion, we transform the semi-implicit formula into a fully explicit form. For spacial discretization, we construct the NMM dual-cover system tailored to Burgers’ equation. We choose constant cover functions and first-order weight functions to enhance computational efficiency and exactly import boundary constraints. Finally, the integrated computing scheme is derived by using the standard Galerkin method, along with a Thomas algorithm-based solution procedure. The proposed method is verified through six benchmark numerical examples under various initial boundary conditions. Extensive comparisons with analytical solutions and results from alternative methods are conducted, demonstrating the accuracy and stability of our approach, particularly in solving Burgers’ equation at high Reynolds numbers.
Impact of Various Prefermentation Treatments on the Pigment, Polyphenol, and Volatile Composition of Industrial Red Wines Made from Vitis vinifera cv Maratheftiko
Authors: Roufas Kosmas , Athanasiadis Vassilis , Chatzimitakos Theodoros , Lalas Stavros I. , Toulaki Artemis , Makris Dimitris P.
Published: May 2024

The grape variety Maratheftiko (V. vinifera sp.) is one of the most prestigious Cypriot varieties, yet Maratheftiko wines are rather poorly studied with regard to principal quality characteristics, such as the polyphenolic and aromatic profile. The current study was undertaken with the scope to investigate the effect of various common industrial prefermentation treatments on the non-volatile and volatile fractions of Maratheftiko wines, in two consecutive harvests. Different lots of grapes underwent the saigneé process, which was also combined with cold maceration, and/or enzyme and tannin addition, and the wines produced on industrial scale were analyzed to portray their profiles of anthocyanins, non-anthocyanin polyphenols, and volatiles. The non-anthocyanin composition was found to be dominated by flavonol glycosides (mainly quercetin 3-O-glucuronide), but also caftaric acid. The major anthocyanin pigment in all wines examined was malvidin 3-O-glucoside, accompanied by its p-coumarate derivative. The principal volatiles determined were isoamyl alcohol, ethyl octanoate, 2-phenylethanol, ethyl caprate, and isoamyl acetate. Principal component analysis revealed that the wines could be clearly discriminated based on vintage year but not based on the different treatments. This study offered novel insights into the composition of Maratheftiko wines and provided some evidence regarding the impact of common enological techniques on their non-volatile and volatile fractions.
Development of a Target Enrichment Probe Set for Conifer (REMcon)
Authors: Khan Raees , Biffin Ed , van Dijk Kor-jent , Hill Robert S. , Liu Jie , Waycott Michelle
Published: May 2024

Conifers are an ecologically and economically important seed plant group that can provide significant insights into the evolution of land plants. Molecular phylogenetics has developed as an important approach in evolutionary studies, although there have been relatively few studies of conifers that employ large-scale data sourced from multiple nuclear genes. Target enrichment sequencing (target capture, exon capture, or Hyb-Seq) has developed as a key approach in modern phylogenomic studies. However, until now, there has been no bait set that specifically targets the entire conifer clade. REMcon is a target sequence capture probe set intended for family- and species-level phylogenetic studies of conifers that target c. 100 single-copy nuclear loci. We tested the REMcon probe set using 69 species, including 44 conifer genera across six families and four other gymnosperm taxa, to evaluate the efficiency of target capture to efficiently generate comparable DNA sequence data across conifers. The recovery of target loci was high, with, on average, 94% of the targeted regions recovered across samples with high read coverage. A phylogenetic analysis of these data produced a well-supported topology that is consistent with the current understanding of relationships among conifers. The REMcon bait set will be useful in generating relatively large-scale nuclear data sets consistently for any conifer lineage.
Phylogenetic Analysis of Rare and Endangered Tulipa Species (Liliaceae) of Kazakhstan Based on Universal Barcoding Markers
Authors: Sutula Maxim , Kakanay Ayan , Tussipkan Dilnur , Dzhumanov Samatulla , Manabayeva Shuga
Published: May 2024

In Kazakhstan, the genus Tulipa is represented by 35 species, 18 of which are listed in the Red Data Book of Kazakhstan and protected by the state. Recent studies of tulip specimens from regions bordering Kazakhstan emphasize the significance of species inventory and report the discovery of several hybrids. In this study, eight tulip species were identified based on morphological characteristics and using DNA barcoding methods. Molecular genetic markers, including nrDNA (ITS) and cpDNA markers (rbcL, matK), of the studied species were sequenced and analyzed using the Bayesian inference and maximum likelihood phylogenetic analysis methods. Our work demonstrates that DNA barcodes based on the ITS, rbcL, and matK marker regions have successful practical applicability, with ITS being the most informative at the intragenic level. However, for distinguishing closely related taxa, the most effective approach would be to use a combined dataset of sequences from multiple DNA markers. The results showed discrepancies in the placement of several taxa (T. kaufmanniana, T. patens), likely due to introgression and natural spontaneous hybridization. The molecular phylogenetic analysis suggests the existence of a previously undescribed hybrid between T. patens and T. alberti. Further detailed population studies are needed to validate this hypothesis.
Long Non-Coding RNAs in Drug Resistance of Gastric Cancer: Complex Mechanisms and Potential Clinical Applications
Authors: Meng Xiangyu , Bai Xiao , Ke Angting , Li Kaiqiang , Lei Yun , Ding Siqi , Dai Dongqiu
Published: May 2024

Gastric cancer (GC) ranks as the third most prevalent malignancy and a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. However, the majority of patients with GC are diagnosed at an advanced stage, highlighting the urgent need for effective perioperative and postoperative chemotherapy to prevent relapse and metastasis. The current treatment strategies have limited overall efficacy because of intrinsic or acquired drug resistance. Recent evidence suggests that dysregulated long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play a significant role in mediating drug resistance in GC. Therefore, there is an imperative to explore novel molecular mechanisms underlying drug resistance in order to overcome this challenging issue. With advancements in deep transcriptome sequencing technology, lncRNAs—once considered transcriptional noise—have garnered widespread attention as potential regulators of carcinogenesis, including tumor cell proliferation, metastasis, and sensitivity to chemo- or radiotherapy through multiple regulatory mechanisms. In light of these findings, we aim to review the mechanisms by which lncRNAs contribute to drug therapy resistance in GC with the goal of providing new insights and breakthroughs toward overcoming this formidable obstacle.
Globospiramine Exhibits Inhibitory and Fungicidal Effects against Candida albicans via Apoptotic Mechanisms
Authors: Manzano Joe Anthony H. , Brogi Simone , Calderone Vincenzo , Macabeo Allan Patrick G. , Austriaco Nicanor
Published: May 2024

Candidiasis is considered an emerging public health concern because of the occurrence of drug-resistant Candida strains and the lack of an available structurally diverse antifungal drug armamentarium. The indole alkaloid globospiramine from the anticandidal Philippine medicinal plant Voacanga globosa exhibits a variety of biological activities; however, its antifungal properties remain to be explored. In this study, we report the in vitro anticandidal activities of globospiramine against two clinically relevant Candida species (C. albicans and C. tropicalis) and the exploration of its possible target proteins using in silico methods. Thus, the colony-forming unit (CFU) viability assay revealed time- and concentration-dependent anticandidal effects of the alkaloid along with a decrease in the number of viable CFUs by almost 50% at 60 min after treatment. The results of the MIC and MFC assays indicated inhibitory and fungicidal effects of globospiramine against C. albicans (MIC = 8 µg/mL; MFC = 8 µg/mL) and potential fungistatic effects against C. tropicalis at lower concentrations (MIC = 4 µg/mL; MFC > 64 µg/mL). The FAM-FLICA poly-caspase assay showed metacaspase activation in C. albicans cells at concentrations of 16 and 8 µg/mL, which agreed well with the MIC and MFC values. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation experiments suggested globospiramine to bind strongly with 1,3-β-glucan synthase and Als3 adhesin—enzymes indirectly involved in apoptosis-driven candidal inhibition.
Advances in the Toxicity Assessment of Silver Nanoparticles Derived from a Sphagnum fallax Extract for Monolayers and Spheroids
Authors: Iskuzhina Liliya , Batasheva Svetlana , Kryuchkova Marina , Rozhin Artem , Zolotykh Mariya , Mingaleeva Rimma , Akhatova Farida , Stavitskaya Anna , Cherednichenko Kirill , Rozhina Elvira
Published: May 2024

The production of nanomaterials through environmentally friendly methods is a top priority in the sustainable development of nanotechnology. This paper presents data on the synthesis of silver nanoparticles using an aqueous extract of Sphagnum fallax moss at room temperature. The morphology, stability, and size of the nanoparticles were analyzed using various techniques, including transmission electron microscopy, Doppler laser velocimetry, and UV-vis spectroscopy. In addition, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was used to analyze the presence of moss metabolites on the surface of nanomaterials. The effects of different concentrations of citrate-stabilized and moss extract-stabilized silver nanoparticles on cell viability, necrosis induction, and cell impedance were compared. The internalization of silver nanoparticles into both monolayers and three-dimensional cells spheroids was evaluated using dark-field microscopy and hyperspectral imaging. An eco-friendly method for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles at room temperature is proposed, which makes it possible to obtain spherical nanoparticles of 20–30 nm in size with high bioavailability and that have potential applications in various areas of human life.
Activation of CD14+ Monocytes via the IFN-γ Signaling Pathway Is Associated with Immune-Related Adverse Events in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Patients Receiving PD-1 Inhibition Combination Therapy
Authors: Song Yaoru , Pan Shida , Tian Jiahe , Yu Yingying , Wang Siyu , Qiu Qin , Shen Yingjuan , Yang Luo , Liu Xiaomeng , Luan Junqing , Wang Yilin , Wang Jianing , Fan Xing , Meng Fanping , Wang Fu-Sheng
Published: May 2024

(1) Background: Immune-related adverse events (irAEs) are a series of unique organ-specific inflammatory toxicities observed in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) undergoing PD-1 inhibition combination therapy. The specific underlying mechanisms remain unclear. (2) Methods: We recruited 71 patients with HCC undergoing PD-1 inhibition combination therapy. These patients were then divided into two groups based on irAE occurrence: 34 had irAEs and 37 did not. Using Olink proteomics, we analyzed the aberrant inflammation-related proteins (IRPs) in these patient groups. For single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) analysis, we collected peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from two representative patients at the pretreatment, irAE occurrence, and resolution stages. (3) Results: Our study revealed distinct plasma protein signatures in HCC patients experiencing irAEs after PD-1 inhibition combination therapy. We clarified the relationship between monocyte activation and irAEs, identified a strongly associated CD14-MC-CCL3 monocyte subset, and explored the role of the IFN-γ signaling pathway in monocyte activation during irAEs. (4) Conclusions: The activation of monocytes induced by the IFN-γ signaling pathway is an important mechanism underlying the occurrence of irAEs in HCC patients receiving PD-1 inhibition combination therapy.
Simple and Fast Prediction of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus Based on Machine Learning and Near-Infrared Spectra of Serum: A Proof of Concept Study at Different Stages of Pregnancy
Authors: Mennickent Daniela , Romero-Albornoz Lucas , Gutiérrez-Vega Sebastián , Aguayo Claudio , Marini Federico , Guzmán-Gutiérrez Enrique , Araya Juan
Published: May 2024

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a hyperglycemic state that is typically diagnosed by an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), which is unpleasant, time-consuming, has low reproducibility, and results are tardy. The machine learning (ML) predictive models that have been proposed to improve GDM diagnosis are usually based on instrumental methods that take hours to produce a result. Near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy is a simple, fast, and low-cost analytical technique that has never been assessed for the prediction of GDM. This study aims to develop ML predictive models for GDM based on NIR spectroscopy, and to evaluate their potential as early detection or alternative screening tools according to their predictive power and duration of analysis. Serum samples from the first trimester (before GDM diagnosis) and the second trimester (at the time of GDM diagnosis) of pregnancy were analyzed by NIR spectroscopy. Four spectral ranges were considered, and 80 mathematical pretreatments were tested for each. NIR data-based models were built with single- and multi-block ML techniques. Every model was subjected to double cross-validation. The best models for first and second trimester achieved areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.5768 ± 0.0635 and 0.8836 ± 0.0259, respectively. This is the first study reporting NIR-spectroscopy-based methods for the prediction of GDM. The developed methods allow for prediction of GDM from 10 µL of serum in only 32 min. They are simple, fast, and have a great potential for application in clinical practice, especially as alternative screening tools to the OGTT for GDM diagnosis.
Single and Combined Effects of Cannabigerol (CBG) and Cannabidiol (CBD) in Mouse Models of Oxaliplatin-Associated Mechanical Sensitivity, Opioid Antinociception, and Naloxone-Precipitated Opioid Withdrawal
Authors: Hayduk Sean A. , Hughes Amanda C. , Winter Rachel L. , Milton Mia D. , Ward Sara Jane
Published: May 2024

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is one of the most prevalent and dose-limiting complications in chemotherapy patients, with estimates of at least 30% of patients experiencing persistent neuropathy for months or years after treatment cessation. An emerging potential intervention for the treatment of CIPN is cannabinoid-based pharmacotherapies. We have previously demonstrated that treatment with the psychoactive CB1/CB2 cannabinoid receptor agonist Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) or the non-psychoactive, minor phytocannabinoid cannabidiol (CBD) can attenuate paclitaxel-induced mechanical sensitivity in a mouse model of CIPN. We then showed that the two compounds acted synergically when co-administered in the model, giving credence to the so-called entourage effect. We and others have also demonstrated that CBD can attenuate several opioid-associated behaviors. Most recently, it was reported that another minor cannabinoid, cannabigerol (CBG), attenuated cisplatin-associated mechanical sensitivity in mice. Therefore, the goals of the present set of experiments were to determine the single and combined effects of cannabigerol (CBG) and cannabidiol (CBD) in oxaliplatin-associated mechanical sensitivity, naloxone-precipitated morphine withdrawal, and acute morphine antinociception in male C57BL/6 mice. Results demonstrated that CBG reversed oxaliplatin-associated mechanical sensitivity only under select dosing conditions, and interactive effects with CBD were sub-additive or synergistic depending upon dosing conditions too. Pretreatment with a selective α2-adrenergic, CB1, or CB2 receptor selective antagonist significantly attenuated the effect of CBG. CBG and CBD decreased naloxone-precipitated jumping behavior alone and acted synergistically in combination, while CBG attenuated the acute antinociceptive effects of morphine and CBD. Taken together, CBG may have therapeutic effects like CBD as demonstrated in rodent models, and its interactive effects with opioids or other phytocannabinoids should continue to be characterized.
Neurobiological Effects of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation over the Inferior Frontal Gyrus: A Systematic Review on Cognitive Enhancement in Healthy and Neurological Adults
Authors: Di Fuccio Raffaele , Lardone Anna , De Luca Mariagiovanna , Ali Leila , Limone Pierpaolo , Marangolo Paola
Published: May 2024

The neurobiological effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) have still not been unequivocally clarified. Some studies have suggested that the application of tDCS over the inferior frontal gyrus (IFG) enhances different aspects of cognition in healthy and neurological individuals, exerting neural changes over the target area and its neural surroundings. In this systematic review, randomized sham-controlled trials in healthy and neurological adults were selected through a database search to explore whether tDCS over the IFG combined with cognitive training modulates functional connectivity or neural changes. Twenty studies were finally included, among which twelve measured tDCS effects through functional magnetic resonance (fMRI), two through functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), and six through electroencephalography (EEG). Due to the high heterogeneity observed across studies, data were qualitatively described and compared to assess reliability. Overall, studies that combined fMRI and tDCS showed widespread changes in functional connectivity at both local and distant brain regions. The findings also suggested that tDCS may also modulate electrophysiological changes underlying the targeted area. However, these outcomes were not always accompanied by corresponding significant behavioral results. This work raises the question concerning the general efficacy of tDCS, the implications of which extend to the steadily increasing tDCS literature.
COVID-19: Unveiling the Neuropsychiatric Maze—From Acute to Long-Term Manifestations
Authors: Ariza Daniela , Castellar-Visbal Lily , Marquina Maria , Rivera-Porras Diego , Galbán Nestor , Santeliz Raquel , Gutiérrez-Rey Melissa , Parra Heliana , Vargas-Manotas José , Torres Wheeler , Quintana-Espinosa Laura , Manzano Alexander , Cudris-Torres Lorena , Bermúdez Valmore
Published: May 2024

The SARS-CoV-2 virus has spread rapidly despite implementing strategies to reduce its transmission. The disease caused by this virus has been associated with a diverse range of symptoms, including common neurological manifestations such as dysgeusia, anosmia, and myalgias. Additionally, numerous cases of severe neurological complications associated with this disease have been reported, including encephalitis, stroke, seizures, and Guillain–Barré syndrome, among others. Given the high prevalence of neurological manifestations in this disease, the objective of this review is to analyze the mechanisms by which this virus can affect the nervous system, from its direct invasion to aberrant activation of the immune system and other mechanisms involved in the symptoms, including neuropsychiatric manifestations, to gain a better understanding of the disease and thus facilitate the search for effective therapeutic strategies.
Stellate Ganglion Block Attenuates LPS-Induced Acute Lung Injury by Activating Sirt3 Regulation of Oxidative Stress and Inflammation
Authors: Dai Shiyun , Ji Jun , Li Rongrong , Gao Lu , He Xingying
Published: May 2024

Stellate ganglion blocks (SGBs) has been applied in clinics to alleviate pain-related syndromes for almost a century. In recent years, it has been reported that SGB can attenuate acute lung injury (ALI) in animals. However, the details of these molecular mechanisms remain complex and unclear. In this study, rats were randomly divided into four groups: group C (receiving no treatment), group NS (receiving the intratracheal instillation of normal saline), group L (receiving the intratracheal instillation of LPS) and group LS (receiving SGB after the intratracheal instillation of LPS). The pathological damage of lung tissue, arterial blood gases, the differentiation of alveolar macrophages (AMs) and inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10) were detected. Furthermore, the oxidative stress indexes (ROS, CYP-D, T-SOD, Mn-SOD and CAT) in serum and the levels of Sirt3 signaling-associated proteins (JAK2/STAT3, NF-κb p65, CIRP and NLRP3) in the lungs were measured. The results revealed that SGB could attenuate lung tissue damage, improve pulmonary oxygenation, promote the differentiation of AMs to the M2 phenotype, decrease the secretion of IL-1β and IL-6, and increase the secretion of IL-10. Meanwhile, SGB was found to inhibit the production of ROS and CYP-D, and enhance the activities of T-SOD, Mn-SOD and CAT. Furthermore, SGB upregulated Sirt3 and downregulated JAK2/STAT3 and NF-κb p65 phosphorylation, CIRP and NLRP3. Our work revealed that SGB could attenuate LPS-induced ALI by activating the Sirt3-mediated regulation of oxidative stress and pulmonary inflammation; this may shed new light upon the protection of SGB and provide a novel prophylactic strategy for LPS-induced ALI.
Synthesis of Chitosan and Ferric-Ion (Fe3+)-Doped Brushite Mineral Cancellous Bone Scaffolds
Authors: Yildizbakan Lemiha , Iqbal Neelam , Giannoudis Peter V. , Jha Animesh
Published: May 2024

Biodegradable scaffolds are needed to repair bone defects. To promote the resorption of scaffolds, a large surface area is required to encourage neo-osteogenesis. Herein, we describe the synthesis and freeze-drying methodologies of ferric-ion (Fe3+) doped Dicalcium Phosphate Dihydrate mineral (DCPD), also known as brushite, which has been known to favour the in situ condition for osteogenesis. In this investigation, the role of chitosan during the synthesis of DCPD was explored to enhance the antimicrobial, scaffold pore distribution, and mechanical properties post freeze-drying. During the synthesis of DCPD, the calcium nitrate solution was hydrolysed with a predetermined stoichiometric concentration of ammonium phosphate. During the hydrolysis reaction, 10 (mol)% iron (Fe3+) nitrate (Fe(NO3)3) was incorporated, and the DCPD minerals were precipitated (Fe3+-DCPD). Chitosan stir-mixed with Fe3+-DCPD minerals was freeze-dried to create scaffolds. The structural, microstructural, and mechanical properties of freeze-dried materials were characterized.
Dynamic Analysis of the Locomotion Mechanism in Foxtail Robots: Frictional Anisotropy and Bristle Diversity
Authors: Lee Jaegak , Jeong Hyemi , Kim Taehyun , Yang Hyunseok
Published: May 2024

This study investigated the locomotion mechanism of foxtail robots, focusing on the frictional anisotropy of tilted bristles under the same friction coefficient and propulsion strategy using bristle diversity. Through dynamic analysis and simulations, we confirmed the frictional anisotropy of tilted bristles and elucidated the role of bristle diversity in generating propulsive force. The interaction between contact nonuniformity and frictional anisotropy was identified as the core principle enabling foxtail locomotion. Simulations of foxtail robots with multiple bristles demonstrated that variations in bristle length, angle, and deformation contribute to propulsive force generation and environmental adaptability. In addition, this study analyzed the influence of major design parameters on frictional anisotropy, highlighting the critical roles of body height, bristle length, stiffness, reference angle, and friction coefficient. The proposed guidelines for designing foxtail robots emphasize securing bristle nonuniformity and inducing contact nonuniformity. The simulation framework presented enables the quantitative prediction and optimization of foxtail robot performance. This research provides valuable insights into foxtail robot locomotion and lays a foundation for the development of efficient and adaptive next-generation robots for diverse environments.
Recent Advances in and Application of Fluorescent Microspheres for Multiple Nucleic Acid Detection
Authors: Chen Zhu , Luo Gaoming , Ren Jie , Wang Qixuan , Zhao Xinping , Wei Linyu , Wang Yue , Liu Yuan , Deng Yan , Li Song
Published: May 2024

Traditional single nucleic acid assays can only detect one target while multiple nucleic acid assays can detect multiple targets simultaneously, providing comprehensive and accurate information. Fluorescent microspheres in multiplexed nucleic acid detection offer high sensitivity, specificity, multiplexing, flexibility, and scalability advantages, enabling precise, real-time results and supporting clinical diagnosis and research. However, multiplexed assays face challenges like complexity, costs, and sample handling issues. The review explores the recent advancements and applications of fluorescent microspheres in multiple nucleic acid detection. It discusses the versatility of fluorescent microspheres in various fields, such as disease diagnosis, drug screening, and personalized medicine. The review highlights the possibility of adjusting the performance of fluorescent microspheres by modifying concentrations and carrier forms, allowing for tailored applications. It emphasizes the potential of fluorescent microsphere technology in revolutionizing nucleic acid detection and advancing health, disease treatment, and medical research.
“Build Your Village”—Conducting the Village Test on Cognitively Impaired Patients: A First Journey into Alzheimerland
Authors: Stanzani-Maserati Michelangelo , De Matteis Maddalena , Bosco Luca , Baccari Flavia , Zenesini Corrado , Mitolo Micaela , La Morgia Chiara , Gallassi Roberto , Capellari Sabina
Published: May 2024

Background: This work aimed to study the Village Test (VT) in a group of patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and compare the results with those of a group of patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and controls. Methods: A total of 50 patients with AD, 28 patients with MCI, and 38 controls were evaluated. All participants underwent the VT and an extensive neuropsychological evaluation. Results: The mean ages of the participants were 74.4 years for those with AD, 74 for those with MCI, and 70.2 for the controls. The AD group built smaller and essential villages with a scarce use of pieces, a poor use of dynamic pieces, and scarce use of human figures. All constructions were often concentrated in the center of the table. Conclusions: The villages built by the AD group represent a cognitive and affective coarctation and indicate a sense of existential disorientation and isolation. The VT is a useful aid for getting in touch with the inner emotional and existential states of patients with AD, and it could represent a complementary screening tool for orienting cognitive impairment diagnoses.