bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reliability Evaluation Method of Multi-Voltage Levels Distribution System Considering the Influence of Sense-Control Terminal Faults
Authors: Zuo Jing , Zhou Shucan , Xu Zhengyang , Gao Chong , Zheng Siguang , Chen Peidong
Published: October 2023

With the existing reliability evaluation methods, it is difficult to realize the overall evaluation of multi-voltage levels distribution systems, and sense-control terminal faults are not considered in the process of reliability evaluation. Therefore, a reliability evaluation method for multi-voltage levels distribution networks considering the influence of the fault of the sensing and control terminal is proposed. Firstly, based on the component reliability model, system state selection method, and reliability index, a reliability evaluation method for distribution networks considering sense-control terminal faults has been proposed. Secondly, the features of a multi-voltage levels distribution network are analyzed. The sequential Monte Carlo simulation method and the failure mode effects analysis method are combined, and a collaborative evaluation method for power supply reliability of multi-voltage levels distribution systems is proposed. Eventually, the effectiveness of the proposed method is proved by an example comparison, and the impact of the terminal fault on the reliability of distribution network is analyzed. The reliability evaluation results can provide technical support for the planning of the distribution network.
Ethyl Formate as a New Sanitary Treatment for Disinfesting the Hitchhiking Insect Pest Halyomorpha halys on Imported Nonfood Agricultural Machinery
Authors: Kim Kyeongnam , Kim Dongbin , Lee Byung-Ho , Roh Gwang Hyun , Kim Kyung Won , Jeon Hwan-Young , Lee Sung-Eun
Published: October 2023

With an increase in the international trade of agricultural and non-agricultural products, there is an increase in the possibility of introducing hitchhiking insect pests such as Halyomorpha halys, which has been detected on imported vehicles and agricultural machinery. Although methyl bromide (MB) is provisionally used to control invasive pests, it is classified as a restricted chemical owing to its potential to deplete the ozone layer and pose health risks to humans in cases of inadequate ventilation, as well as concerns regarding consumer safety. Therefore, this study investigated ethyl formate’s (EF’s) efficacy against H. halys and its efficacy and sorption, as an alternative to MB, on main electronic components, including alternators, ignition coils, and motors. Fumigation with 35 and 70 g/m3 EF for 4 h at 15 °C had no damage on the main electronic components as evaluated using various operation tests. In a commercial trial, H. halys infestation was effectively controlled with 35 g/m3 EF fumigated for 4 h at 23 °C using a 30 m3 polyvinyl chloride tarpaulin fumigation chamber. After ventilation, the EF concentration decreased below the safety level within 10 min and reached the zero level within 40 min for worker safety. This novel sanitary treatment using EF fumigation on imported agricultural machinery could be an effective method without causing mechanical damage.
Image Steganography Using LSB and Hybrid Encryption Algorithms
Authors: Alanzy May , Alomrani Razan , Alqarni Bashayer , Almutairi Saad
Published: October 2023

In today’s era of widespread web technology and cloud computing, ensuring data security has become a crucial concern across various industries. Instances of data breaches and vulnerabilities in cloud storage have emphasized the need for robust data protection and communication protocols, particularly in sectors like social media, military, and research. This research proposes a Multi-Level Steganography (MLS) algorithm that employs two encryption algorithms, AES and Blow-Fish, to secure the cover image and embed encryption keys as key images within the stego image. The proposed MLS algorithm incorporates a robust pixel randomization function to enhance the security of the encrypted data. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed algorithm effectively protects data with high Peak Signal-to-Noise Ratio (PSNR) and low Mean Square Error (MSE) values, ensuring superior image quality, reliable encryption, and decryption of secret messages. The utilization of hybrid encryption with AES and BlowFish algorithms further strengthens the algorithm’s security by augmenting the complexity of the encryption process.
Exploring the Anti-Cancer Properties of Pomegranate Peel Aqueous Extract
Authors: Luís Carla , Sousa André P. , Costa Raquel , Maduro Ana T. , Pais Patrick J. , Sá Sara , Gestoso Álvaro , Fernandes Flávia , Jerónimo Eliana , Soares Raquel , Fernandes Ruben , Baylina Pilar , Duarte Maria F.
Published: October 2023

The objective of this work is to evaluate the influence of pomegranate peel extract (PPE) in the behavior of breast cell lines (epithelial and tumor type) and related oxidative metabolism. Fruit-based functional foods have been the target of increasing scientific research for their physiological and pathophysiological properties. Pomegranate (Punica granatum) is a suitable example with both prophylactic and medicinal effects. MCF-7 cell line from tumor breast carcinoma, and MCF-10A cell line from normal epithelial mammary gland were used and subjected to different concentrations of PPE, ranging from 1 to 5 mM of gallic acid equivalents (GAE). Viability, proliferation, mobility, and cytotoxicity assays were performed along with the quantification of antioxidant enzymes, namely, catalase, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and reduced (GSH) and oxidized (GSSG) glutathione. We observed a decrease in viability and proliferation of MCF-7 cells, at higher concentrations of PPE, with no influence in epithelial cells. Interestingly, in a concentration-dependent manner, PPE triggered a significant decrease in migration on both cell lines, with a more pronounced effect in breast cancer cell line. Regarding antioxidant enzyme activity, on tumor cells higher concentrations of PPE decreased catalase activity and significantly increased SOD activity. Regarding GSH and GSSG, we observed different expression levels between MCF-7 and MCF-10A, with MCF-7 presenting lower levels compared to MCF-10A. GSH/GSSG ratio was notably higher in MCF-7 at 5 mM GAE. PPE exhibits anti-tumor effects without significantly affecting normal epithelial cells. Our work strengthens the potential antitumoral effect of PPE by reducing MCF-7 cell viability and proliferation through the imbalance of antioxidant enzymes.
Deep Learning-Based Efficient Analysis for Encrypted Traffic
Authors: Yan Xiaodan
Published: October 2023

To safeguard user privacy, critical Internet traffic is often transmitted using encryption. While encryption is crucial for protecting sensitive information, it poses challenges for traffic identification and poses hidden dangers to network security. As a result, the precise classification of encrypted network traffic has become a crucial problem in network security. In light of this, our paper proposes an encrypted traffic identification method based on the C-LSTM model for encrypted traffic recognition by leveraging the power of deep learning. This method can effectively extract spatial and temporal features from encrypted traffic, enabling accurate identification of traffic types. Through rigorous testing and evaluation, our system has achieved an impressive accuracy rate of 96.4% on the widely used ISCXVPN2016 dataset. This achievement demonstrates the effectiveness and reliability of our method in accurately classifying encrypted network traffic. By addressing the challenges posed by encrypted traffic identification, our research contributes to enhancing network security and privacy protection.
Power Quality Monitors Displacement Based on Voltage Sags Propagation Mechanism and Grid Reliability Indexes
Authors: Liubčuk Vladislav , Radziukynas Virginijus , Kairaitis Gediminas , Naujokaitis Darius
Published: October 2023

Nowadays, voltage sag continues to remain a critical PQ issue in the industry. Since it is not possible to install a voltage analyzer on every node, optimal monitoring locations must be determined. However, during the PQ monitoring campaign of the Lithuanian DSO grid, the execution of this task was inhibited by the lack of knowledge and literature about the fundamentals of voltage sags propagation. Therefore, the first part of this paper investigates the propagation paths of voltage sags by using a voltage sag matrix method on the created test grid, which for the first time is BRELL-based. This paper is the first to not only investigate voltage sags propagation paths (both downward and upward) in detail, but also to investigate them complexly, encompassing all four types of short-circuits, both voltages (phase-to-phase and phase-to-ground), and interconnections with other PQ events (interruption, transient, unbalance). The result has established a generalization of voltage sags propagation mechanisms by inductive reasoning and laid the foundation for the further development of PQ theory. The second part of this paper focuses on the Lithuanian DSO grid and is one of the first to investigate voltage sags/interruptions through the prism of both relationship with reliability indexes (SAIFI and SAIDI) and primary causes. For this purpose, we created our own scientific methodology, applying known probabilistic and statistical methods along with newly proposed approaches, in particular for ACR success evaluation and estimation of functions similarity.
Application of In Silico Trials for the Investigation of Drug Effects on Cardiomyopathy-Diseased Heart Cycle Properties
Authors: Milosevic Miljan , Milicevic Bogdan , Simic Vladimir , Anic Milos , Kojic Milos , Jakovljevic Djordje , Filipovic Nenad
Published: October 2023

In this paper, we present the abilities of an in silico platform used to simulate the effects of different drugs on heartbeat cycle performance. The platform is based on a finite element modelling approach with the fluid–solid interaction implemented using a loose coupling procedure. Active mechanical stresses are calculated using the Hunter excitation model while the passive mechanical stresses are calculated using a recently introduced experiment-based material model for the heart tissue. The applicability of the platform is illustrated using a simple parametric model of the left ventricle. The simulations are performed using parameters that are specific to drugs such as digoxin, mavacamten, 2-deoxy adenosine triphosphate, and disopyramide, with the concentration of calcium in the cardiac cells affected by these drugs given as an input function. The results are obtained for two geometries mimicking patients with hypertrophic and dilated cardiomyopathy, and also for different inlet/outlet boundary conditions simulating different drug effects at the macroscopic level. Using in silico simulations with virtual patients, it is possible to evaluate the influence of different drugs on cardiac output and ejection fraction. This approach can significantly reduce computational costs with an acceptable solution accuracy compared to approaches coupling finite element and biophysical muscle model methods that are used to calculate drug effects at the micro level.
SKATEBOARD: Semantic Knowledge Advanced Tool for Extraction, Browsing, Organisation, Annotation, Retrieval, and Discovery
Authors: Bernasconi Eleonora , Di Pierro Davide , Redavid Domenico , Ferilli Stefano
Published: October 2023

This paper introduces Semantic Knowledge Advanced Tool for Extraction Browsing Organisation Annotation Retrieval and Discovery (SKATEBOARD), a tool designed to facilitate knowledge exploration through the application of semantic technologies. The demand for advanced solutions that streamline Knowledge Extraction, management, and visualisation, characterised by abundant information, has grown substantially in the current era. Graph-based representations have emerged as a robust approach for uncovering intricate data relationships, complementing the capabilities offered by AI models. Acknowledging the transparency and user control challenges faced by AI-driven solutions, SKATEBOARD offers a comprehensive framework encompassing Knowledge Extraction, ontology development, management, and interactive exploration. By adhering to Linked Data principles and adopting graph-based exploration, SKATEBOARD provides users with a clear view of data relationships and dependencies. Furthermore, it integrates recommendation systems and reasoning capabilities to augment the knowledge discovery process, thus introducing a serendipity effect generated by the SKATEBOARD interface exploration. This paper elucidates SKATEBOARD’s functionalities while emphasising its user-centric design. After reviewing related research, we provide an overview of the SKATEBOARD pipeline, demonstrating its capacity to bridge RDF and LPG representations. Subsequent sections delve into Knowledge Extraction and exploration, culminating in the evaluation of the tool. SKATEBOARD empowers users to make informed decisions and uncover valuable insights within their data domains, with the added dimension of serendipitous discoveries facilitated by its interface exploration capabilities.
MMTD: A Multilingual and Multimodal Spam Detection Model Combining Text and Document Images
Authors: Zhang Ziqi , Deng Zhaohong , Zhang Wei , Bu Lingchao
Published: October 2023

Spam detection has been a topic of extensive research; however, there has been limited focus on multimodal spam detection. In this study, we introduce a novel approach for multilingual multimodal spam detection, presenting the Multilingual and Multimodal Spam Detection Model combining Text and Document Images (MMTD). Unlike previous methods, our proposed model incorporates a document image encoder to extract image features from the entire email, providing a holistic understanding of both textual and visual content through a single image. Additionally, we employ a multilingual text encoder to extract textual features, enabling our model to process multilingual text content found in emails. To fuse the multimodal features, we employ a multimodal fusion module. Addressing the challenge of scarce large multilingual multimodal spam datasets, we introduce a new multilingual multimodal spam detection dataset comprising over 30,000 samples, which stands as the largest dataset of its kind to date. This dataset facilitates a rigorous evaluation of our proposed method. Extensive experiments were conducted on this dataset, and the performance of our model was validated using a five-fold cross-validation approach. The experimental results demonstrate the superiority of our approach, with our model achieving state-of-the-art performance, boasting an accuracy of 99.8% when compared to other advanced methods in the field.
Assessment of Typhoon Precipitation Forecasts Based on Topographic Factors
Authors: Chen Xu-Zhe , Ma Yu-Long , Lin Chun-Qiao , Fan Ling-Li
Published: October 2023

For this paper, a new global atmospheric model (Global-to-Regional Integrated forecast SysTem; GRIST) with improved sub-grid scale orographic parameterization was verified and assessed, with an emphasis on the precipitation caused by typhoons. Four typical typhoon cases were selected for the verification of the model. The results indicate that, compared to the control experiments, the sensitivity experiments consistently simulated the trends in the three-hour cumulative precipitation changes and the high-value regions of total precipitation better. However, the improved experiments only had an ameliorating effect on the cumulative precipitation modelling biases for Typhoon LEKIMA and Typhoon HAGUPIT, not all of them. Precipitation bias is smaller on flat land than that on mountainous land, but the precipitation bias on windward/leeward slopes depends on the typhoon case. Precipitation modelling accuracy varies considerably between flat and mountainous terrain but very little between windward and leeward slopes. The precipitation simulation is poor for all terrains, with large precipitation thresholds in three typhoon cases, but for Typhoon HOTA, after improving the terrain, the model has the ability to forecast the heavy rainfall scenarios of the mountainous terrain.
Incorporating Stochastic Wind Vectors in Wildfire Spread Prediction
Authors: Masoudian Sahar , Sharples Jason , Jovanoski Zlatko , Towers Isaac , Watt Simon
Published: October 2023

The stochastic nature of environmental factors that govern the behavior of fire, such as wind and fuel, exposes wildfire modeling to a degree of uncertainty. In order to produce more realistic wildfire predictions, it is, therefore, necessary to incorporate these uncertainties within wildfire models in a way that reflects the influence of environmental stochasticity on wildfire propagation. Otherwise, the risks of the potential danger of a given wildfire may be under-represented. Specifically, environmental stochasticity in the form of wind variability results in considerable uncertainty in the output of fire spread models. Here, we consider two stochastic wind models and their implementation in the spark fire simulator framework to capture the environmental uncertainty related to wind variability. The results are compared with the output from purely deterministic wildfire spread models and are discussed in the context of the potential ramifications for wildfire risk management.
Aerosol Types and Their Climatology over the Dust Belt Region
Authors: Samman Ahmad E. , Butt Mohsin J.
Published: October 2023

Aerosols, both natural and anthropogenic, are an important but complex component of the Earth’s climate system. Their net impact on climate is about equal in magnitude to that of greenhouse gases but can vary significantly by region and type. Understanding and quantifying these aerosol effects is critical for accurate climate modeling and for developing strategies to mitigate climate change. In this paper, we utilize AERONET (Aerosol Robotic NETwork) data from 10 stations situated in the dust belt region to characterize aerosol properties essential for climate change assessment. Aerosol optical depth (AOD) data at 500 nm and Ångström exponent (α) data at the pair of wavelengths of 440 and 870 nm (α440-870) in the study region are analyzed to discriminate among different types of aerosols. The annual and monthly variabilities in AODs are analyzed to see the aerosols trend in the study region. In addition, the AOD and α440-870 data are utilized in order to determine different aerosol types during the period of study. Furthermore, the correlation coefficient between AODs and various meteorological parameters (temperature, wind speed, wind direction, relative humidity, and visibility) is analyzed. The results of the study indicate that Tamanrasset (2.49%), KAUST (1.29%), Solar Village (1.67%), and Dalanzadgad (0.64%) indicate an increasing trend, while Cairo (−0.38%), Masdar (−2.31%), Dushanbe (−1.18%), and Lahore (−0.10%) indicate a decreasing trend in AODs during the study period. Similarly, the results of characterizing aerosol types show that the highest percentage of desert dust aerosols (68%), mixed aerosols (86%), and biomass burning aerosols (15%) are found over Tamanrasset, Lahore, and Dalanzadgad AERONET stations. The study revealed a strong correlation between AODs and visibility, a moderate correlation with temperature, and a low correlation with other meteorological parameters (wind speed, wind direction, and relative humidity) in the study region. The results of the study are very encouraging and enhance our confidence in using historical AERONET data to improve our understanding of atmospheric aerosols’ characteristics.
Isomers in the Cosmos
Authors: Norman Eric B.
Published: October 2023

The nucleosynthesis of chemical elements has been established to be the result of a variety of different types of nuclear reactions in stars. Under the extreme temperatures and densities encountered in such environments, nuclear isomers can be populated and thus complicate our understanding of these processes. In this paper, I have chosen to discuss five cases that illustrate how nuclear isomers can play important roles in the nucleosynthesis of chemical elements.
On Local Unique Solvability for a Class of Nonlinear Identification Problems
Authors: Fedorov Vladimir E. , Plekhanova Marina V. , Melekhina Daria V.
Published: October 2023

Nonlinear identification problems for evolution differential equations, solved with respect to the highest-order Dzhrbashyan–Nersesyan fractional derivative, are studied. An equation of the considered class contains a linear unbounded operator, which generates analytic resolving families for the corresponding linear homogeneous equation, and a continuous nonlinear operator, which depends on lower-order Dzhrbashyan–Nersesyan derivatives and a depending on time unknown element. The identification problem consists of the equation, Dzhrbashyan–Nersesyan initial value conditions and an abstract overdetermination condition, which is defined by a linear continuous operator. Using the contraction mappings theorem, we prove the unique local solvability of the identification problem. The cases of mild and classical solutions are studied. The obtained abstract results are applied to an investigation of a nonlinear identification problem to a linearized phase field system with time dependent unknown coefficients at Dzhrbashyan–Nersesyan time-derivatives of lower orders.
The Impact of Urbanization on Tree Growth and Xylem Anatomical Characteristics
Authors: Gao Xiaohui , Zhao Binqing , Chen Zecheng , Song Wenqi , Li Zongshan , Wang Xiaochun
Published: October 2023

In the context of the intensification of global urbanization, how urbanization (urban heat island effect and air pollution) affects urban tree growth is not fully understood. In this paper, the radial growth and xylem anatomical characteristics of three different tree species (Quercus mongolica, Fraxinus mandshurica, and Pinus sylvestris var. mongolica) in urban and rural areas of Harbin were compared by means of tree-ring anatomy. The results showed that there were significant differences in the growth of both broadleaf trees and conifers between urban and rural areas. The vessel number, cumulative area of vessels, and theoretical hydraulic conductivity of all tree species in rural areas were higher than those in urban areas, indicating that urbanization may have the effect of slowing down growth. However, broadleaf trees in urban areas had higher vessel density and a greater percentage of a conductive area within xylem and theoretical xylem-specific hydraulic conductivity. The thickness of cell walls and cell wall reinforcement index of P. sylvestris var. mongolica were strongly reduced by air pollution, implying that it may be more sensitive to urbanization. Compared to Q. mongolica, F. mandshurica showed less sensitivity to urbanization. Warming and drying climate in Harbin may be an important factor affecting tree growth.
Muscle Involvement in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Understanding the Pathogenesis and Advancing Therapeutics
Authors: Duranti Elisa , Villa Chiara
Published: October 2023

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal condition characterized by the selective loss of motor neurons in the motor cortex, brainstem, and spinal cord. Muscle involvement, muscle atrophy, and subsequent paralysis are among the main features of this disease, which is defined as a neuromuscular disorder. ALS is a persistently progressive disease, and as motor neurons continue to degenerate, individuals with ALS experience a gradual decline in their ability to perform daily activities. Ultimately, muscle function loss may result in paralysis, presenting significant challenges in mobility, communication, and self-care. While the majority of ALS research has traditionally focused on pathogenic pathways in the central nervous system, there has been a great interest in muscle research. These studies were carried out on patients and animal models in order to better understand the molecular mechanisms involved and to develop therapies aimed at improving muscle function. This review summarizes the features of ALS and discusses the role of muscle, as well as examines recent studies in the development of treatments.
Namodenoson Inhibits the Growth of Pancreatic Carcinoma via Deregulation of the Wnt/β-catenin, NF-κB, and RAS Signaling Pathways
Authors: Itzhak Inbal , Bareket-Samish Avital , Fishman Pnina
Published: October 2023

Namodenoson, an A3 adenosine receptor (A3AR) agonist, is currently being used in a phase III trial in advanced liver cancer. We examined the anti-growth effect of namodenoson on pancreatic carcinoma cells and investigated the molecular mechanism involved. BxPC-3 pancreatic carcinoma cells were cultured with namodenoson (5–20 nM for 24 h at 37 °C), and the Presto Blue assay was used to monitor cell growth. Western blot analyses were performed on BxPC-3 cells (20 nM namodenoson for 24 h at 37 °C) to evaluate the expression levels of cell growth regulatory proteins. In vivo studies involved the subcutaneous inoculation of BxPC-3 cells into nude mice, randomizing the mice into namodenoson (10 μg/kg twice daily for 35 days) vs. control, and monitoring tumor size twice weekly. Treatment with namodenoson was associated with the significant dose-dependent inhibition of BxPC-3 cell growth, which was mitigated by the A3AR antagonist MRS1523. Western blot analyses showed that namodenoson treatment modulated the expression of NF-κB, as well as proteins in the Wnt/β-catenin and the RAS signaling pathways, leading to the upregulation of apoptotic proteins (Bad, Bax). In vivo studies also showed the significant inhibition of pancreatic carcinoma tumor growth with namodenoson. In conclusion, our findings support the continued development of namodenoson as a treatment for pancreatic cancer.
CCR8 as a Therapeutic Novel Target: Omics-Integrated Comprehensive Analysis for Systematically Prioritizing Indications
Authors: Kim Nari , Kim Mi-Hyun , Pyo Junhee , Lee Soo-Min , Jang Ji-Sung , Lee Do-Wan , Kim Kyung Won
Published: October 2023

Target identification is a crucial process in drug development, aiming to identify key proteins, genes, and signal pathways involved in disease progression and their relevance in potential therapeutic interventions. While C-C chemokine receptor 8 (CCR8) has been investigated as a candidate anti-cancer target, comprehensive multi-omics analyzes across various indications are limited. In this study, we conducted an extensive bioinformatics analysis integrating genomics, proteomics, and transcriptomics data to establish CCR8 as a promising anti-cancer drug target. Our approach encompassed data collection from diverse knowledge resources, gene function analysis, differential gene expression profiling, immune cell infiltration assessment, and strategic prioritization of target indications. Our findings revealed strong correlations between CCR8 and specific cancers, notably Breast Invasive Carcinoma (BRCA), Colon Adenocarcinoma (COAD), Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSC), Rectum adenocarcinoma (READ), Stomach adenocarcinoma (STAD), and Thyroid carcinoma (THCA). This research advances our understanding of CCR8 as a potential target for anti-cancer drug development, bridging the gap between molecular insights and creating opportunities for personalized treatment of solid tumors.
Intermediate Monocytes and Circulating Endothelial Cells: Interplay with Severity of Atherosclerosis in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Kologrivova Irina V. , Suslova Tatiana E. , Koshelskaya Olga A. , Kravchenko Elena S. , Kharitonova Olga A. , Romanova Ekaterina A. , Vyrostkova Alexandra I. , Boshchenko Alla A.
Published: October 2023

The aim was to investigate the association of monocyte heterogeneity and presence of circulating endothelial cells with the severity of coronary atherosclerosis in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). We recruited 62 patients with CAD, including 22 patients with DM2. The severity of atherosclerosis was evaluated using Gensini Score. Numbers of classical (CD14++CD16–), intermediate (CD14++CD16+), and non-classical (CD14+CD16++) monocyte subsets; circulating endothelial progenitor cells; and the presence of circulating endothelial cells were evaluated. Counts and frequencies of intermediate monocytes, but not glycaemia parameters, were associated with the severity of atherosclerosis in diabetic CAD patients (rs = 0.689; p = 0.001 and rs = 0.632; p = 0.002, respectively). Frequency of Tie2+ cells was lower in classical than in non-classical monocytes in CAD patients (p = 0.007), while in patients with association of CAD and T2DM, differences between Tie2+ monocytes subsets disappeared (p = 0.080). Circulating endothelial cells were determined in 100% of CAD+T2DM patients, and counts of CD14++CD16+ monocytes and concentration of TGF-β predicted the presence of circulating endothelial cells (sensitivity 92.3%; specificity 90.9%; AUC = 0.930). Thus, intermediate monocytes represent one of the key determinants of the appearance of circulating endothelial cells in all the patients with CAD, but are associated with the severity of atherosclerosis only in patients with association of CAD and T2DM.
Mill Scale-Derived Magnetite Nanoparticles: A Novel Substrate for Lactate Oxidase-Based Biosensors
Authors: Khosravi Hamid , Carreras-Gallo Oscar , Casals-Terré Jasmina
Published: October 2023

Recycling and revalorization of waste are currently essential for sustainable growth. Mill scale, a waste product from steel production industries, which contains high levels of iron and minimal impurities, is proposed in this study as the source to synthesize magnetite nanoparticles (Fe3O4) for an enhancement of a lactate biosensor range. The synthesized Fe3O4 nanoparticles were coated with polydopamine (PDA) to prevent aggregation and degradation, creating a stable platform for immobilizing lactate oxidase enzyme (LOx) on their surfaces. The characterization of the Fe3O4@PDA material was carried out using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and measurement of the polydispersity index (PdI). The Fe3O4@PDA-LOx material was then deposited on a screen-printed carbon electrode modified with Prussian blue (SPCE-PB) for lactate detection. The biosensor exhibited a broad, dual linear concentration-response range, one from 0.1 to 4.62 mM with a limit of detection of 0.32 mM and sensitivity of 1.54 μAmM−1cm−2, and another one from 4.62 to 149.21 mM with a limit of detection of 6.31 mM and sensitivity of 0.08 μAmM−1cm−2. The dual-range concentration response of the biosensor makes it an ideal tool for lactate determination in various applications, including sports medicine, clinical diagnosis, and industrial bioprocessing.
The Moderating Role of the DYX1C1 Gene in the Effect of Home Supervision on Chinese Children’s Reading Achievements: Evidence from the Diathesis–Stress Model
Authors: Niu Yingnan , Cai He , Zhang Li
Published: October 2023

The current study aimed to explore whether susceptible children (with differences in DYX1C1 (dyslexia susceptibility 1 candidate gene 1) gene) are more likely to be influenced by either supportive or adverse home supervision in their reading achievements. Home supervision, reading achievements, and genotype data were collected from a total of 745 fourth and fifth grade children and their parents in Chongqing, China. The results showed that there was a significant interaction between the rs11629841 polymorphism of the DYX1C1 gene and home supervision on children’s reading achievements. A further analysis based on the re-parameterized regression model showed that the interaction best fit a weak diathesis–stress model, which indicated that the home supervision had a stronger predictive effect on children’s reading achievements among children with the susceptible genotype than children with a non-susceptible genotype in a more adverse environment rather than in a supportive environment. These results suggested that children carrying different genotypes may need targeted interventions and that their parents should emphasize home supervision to develop their children’s reading skills.
Study of Pavement Performance and Temperature Regulation Capacity of Asphalt Binders Modified with Dual-Phase-Change Materials
Authors: Huo Donghui , Hou Debao , Zhang Shuaixiang , Gao Wei , Yu Changchun , Jia Ling , Chang Baolin , Zhang Rui , Guo Meng
Published: October 2023

Due to the temperature changes caused by seasonal changes and extreme weather, asphalt pavement suffers from rutting, cracking, and other damage. With commonly used pavement additives, the high-temperature performance and the low-temperature performance of asphalt pavement show opposite trends, with related research endeavoring to find a balance between the two. In this study, a dual-phase-change material (DPCM) with both high- and low-temperature effects was prepared. The chemical stability and rheological properties of modified asphalt binders were characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and a dynamic shear rheometer (DSR). Temperature control tests of the DPCM-modified asphalt binders were carried out with an indoor simulation device. The results show that the DPCMs could improve the rutting resistance of the asphalt binders at a high temperature, but the fatigue performance of the modified asphalt binder with different DPCM contents was reduced. The FTIR results showed that no chemical reaction occurred in the mixing of the asphalt binder and the DPCM. In the indoor simulation temperature control test, the 40% DPCM-content-modified asphalt binder reduced the high-temperature extreme value by 4.2 °C and increased the low-temperature extreme value by 2.5 °C, showing a good temperature control effect and practical application value.
An Environmental Evaluation of Ventilation Systems Aimed at Reducing Indoor Radon Concentration
Authors: Felicioni Licia , Jiránek Martin , Vlasatá Barbora , Lupíšek Antonín
Published: October 2023

The primary measures against radon in buildings are a tight contact structure or venting the subsoil beneath the building. In many cases, ventilation systems used in buildings to ensure good indoor air quality can also be used to reduce the radon concentration. This study aims to evaluate the environmental impacts of residential ventilation systems for their ability to lower the concentration of this gas. The life cycle assessment methodology was used to assess two kinds of ventilation systems. The results indicate that 95% of environmental impacts are associated with operational emissions, while 5% are associated with embodied ones. Moreover, an increase in radon supply rates resulted in an increase in energy consumption and related emissions, for example, the operational energy of an exhaust ventilation system aimed for a reduction to 200 Bq/m3 in a 9/15 cyclic mode range from 9.69 for a radon supply rate of 50 Bq/m3h to 32.27 for 200 Bq/m3h. These simulations show that ventilation systems cannot be considered universally suitable measures to reduce the radon concentration because they may become very energy demanding, and their environmental impact may be significant even considering the type of energy source. Based on this study, we can determine whether it makes sense for a given radon supply rate and energy source to use a ventilation system to reduce the radon concentration in residential buildings.
Deformation Monitoring of Monopole Communication Towers Based on Multi-Source Data Fusion
Authors: Ji Xiaopeng , Ren Liang , Fu Xing , Zhang Qing , Li Hao
Published: October 2023

Monopole communication towers play an irreplaceable role in modern communication systems. Because of its high flexibility, lateral loads control the deformation of a monopole communication tower. Dynamic displacement can be used to describe structural vibration characteristics and real-time deformation situations. Therefore, this article proposes a monopole communication tower deformation monitoring method based on multi-source data fusion using dynamic displacement as the evaluation indicator. This method calculates the strain displacement using the strain-mode superposition methodology. Then, the strain displacement and acceleration obtained are processed using Kalman filtering technology to reconstruct the real-time displacements of the monopole communication tower. The effectiveness of this method was verified using numerical simulations and model experiments, respectively. In addition, parametric analysis shows that this method is suitable for processing multi-rate data, has good noise resistance in strong noise environments, and can effectively reconstruct the displacement near the tower bottom. The results indicate that the method has favorable robustness and can accurately reconstruct low-frequency and high-frequency displacements of the monopole communication tower.
Evaluation of Biogas and Solar Energy Coupling on Phase-Change Energy-Storage Heating Systems: Optimization of Supply and Demand Coordination
Authors: Liu Zemin , Gao Xinyu , Li Ze , Yang Xiaohu , Hu Yukun
Published: October 2023

Biogas heating plays a crucial role in the transition to clean energy and the mitigation of agricultural pollution. To address the issue of low biogas production during winter, the implementation of a multi-energy complementary system has become essential for ensuring heating stability. To guarantee the economy, stability, and energy-saving operation of the heating system, this study proposes coupling biogas and solar energy with a phase-change energy-storage heating system. The mathematical model of the heating system was developed, taking an office building in Xilin Hot, Inner Mongolia (43.96000° N, 116.03000° E) as a case study. Additionally, the Sparrow Search Algorithm (SSA) was employed to determine equipment selection and optimize the dynamic operation strategy, considering the minimum cost and the balance between the supply and demand of the building load. The operating economy was evaluated using metrics such as payback period, load ratio, and daily rate of return. The results demonstrate that the multi-energy complementary heating system, with a balanced supply and demand, yields significant economic benefits compared to the central heating system, with a payback period of 4.15 years and a daily return rate of 32.97% under the most unfavorable working conditions. Moreover, the development of a daily optimization strategy holds practical engineering significance, and the optimal scheduling of the multi-energy complementary system, with a balance of supply and demand, is realized.
Experimental Investigation and Prediction for Bending Creep of Glass Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Pultruded Tube
Authors: Cheng Kaige , Wang Yaohui , Fang Hai , Qian Changgen , Wu Peng
Published: October 2023

This study experimentally investigates the bending creep behavior of a pultruded tube made of glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) and provides the corresponding fitting model as well as the life prediction equation. In the experiment process, the static bending test is performed first to determine the ultimate load-bearing capacities. Then, the creep experiments lasting 3000 h are conducted for GFRP pultruded tubes with 50%, 55%, 60%, and 65% fiber contents, subjected to four different load levels, i.e., 20%, 32.5%, 45%, 57.5%, and 70%, of the ultimate load-bearing capacity. The results indicate that the creep behavior exhibits linear viscoelasticity for load levels below 45%, while the specimens under load levels of 57.5% and 70% experienced creep failure before 1500 h. The test results indicate that for GFRP tubes, the higher the load level, the more pronounced the creep deformation, and specimens with a higher fiber content exhibit better creep resistance compared to those with lower fiber content. When the load level is less than 45%, the creep behavior appears as linear viscoelasticity. However, at a load level of 57.5%, the specimens experience shear failure, and at a load level of 70%, the specimens undergo overall bending failure. In addition, the prediction equation of creep deflection for GFRP pultruded tubes in linear viscoelasticity is developed by utilizing the Bailey–Norton model and the Findley model, and the prediction equation of creep life is acquired by fitting the experimental data with an exponential function.
Right Ventricular Function in Long-Term Survivors of Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: From the CTOXALL Study
Authors: Heredia Gloria , Gonzalez-Manzanares Rafael , Ojeda Soledad , Molina Jose R. , Fernandez-Aviles Consuelo , Hidalgo Francisco , Lopez-Aguilera Jose , Crespin Manuel , Mesa Dolores , Anguita Manuel , Castillo Juan C. , Pan Manuel
Published: October 2023

There are limited data regarding right ventricle (RV) impairment in long-term survivors of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (CLS). The aim of this study was to assess RV function in these patients using echocardiographic conventional measurements and automated RV strain. Echocardiographic recordings of 90 CLS and 58 healthy siblings from the CTOXALL cohort were analyzed. For group comparisons, inverse probability weighting was used to reduce confounding. The CLS group (24.6 ± 9.7 years, 37.8% women) underwent an echocardiographic evaluation 18 (11–26) years after the diagnosis. RV systolic dysfunction was found in 16.7% of CLS individuals using RV free-wall strain (RVFWS) compared to 2.2 to 4.4% with conventional measurements. RV systolic function measurements were lower in the CLS than in the control group: TAPSE (23.3 ± 4.0 vs. 25.2 ± 3.4, p = 0.004) and RVFWS (24.9 ± 4.6 vs. 26.8 ± 4.7, p = 0.032). Modifiable cardiovascular risk factors such as obesity (p = 0.022) and smoking (p = 0.028) were independently associated with reduced RVFWS. In conclusion, RV systolic function impairment was frequent in long-term survivors of childhood leukemia, underscoring the importance of RV assessment, including RVFWS, in the cardiac surveillance of these patients.
Lipocalin-2: A Nurturer of Tumor Progression and a Novel Candidate for Targeted Cancer Therapy
Authors: Živalj Maida , Van Ginderachter Jo A. , Stijlemans Benoit
Published: October 2023

Within the tumor microenvironment (TME) exists a complex signaling network between cancer cells and stromal cells, which determines the fate of tumor progression. Hence, interfering with this signaling network forms the basis for cancer therapy. Yet, many types of cancer, in particular, solid tumors, are refractory to the currently used treatments, so there is an urgent need for novel molecular targets that could improve current anti-cancer therapeutic strategies. Lipocalin-2 (Lcn-2), a secreted siderophore-binding glycoprotein that regulates iron homeostasis, is highly upregulated in various cancer types. Due to its pleiotropic role in the crosstalk between cancer cells and stromal cells, favoring tumor progression, it could be considered as a novel biomarker for prognostic and therapeutic purposes. However, the exact signaling route by which Lcn-2 promotes tumorigenesis remains unknown, and Lcn-2-targeting moieties are largely uninvestigated. This review will (i) provide an overview on the role of Lcn-2 in orchestrating the TME at the level of iron homeostasis, macrophage polarization, extracellular matrix remodeling, and cell migration and survival, and (ii) discuss the potential of Lcn-2 as a promising novel drug target that should be pursued in future translational research.
Clinical Impact of CDK4/6 Inhibitors in De Novo or PR− or Very Elderly Post-Menopausal ER+/HER2− Advanced Breast Cancers
Authors: Tang Hiu , Yeo Daniel , De Souza Karen , Ahmad Omar , Shafiq Tahir , Ofor Okezie , Anand Anjana , Karim Syed , Khan Sarah , Madhusudan Srinivasan
Published: October 2023

The CDK4/6 inhibitors significantly increase progression-free survival (PFS) in ER+/HER2− advanced breast cancer patients. In clinical trials, overall survival (OS) improvement has been demonstrated for ribociclib and abemaciclib but not for palbociclib. We undertook a real-world evaluation of PFS and OS in 227 post-menopausal patients who received first-line CDK4/6 inhibitors. There is no significant difference in median PFS (27.5 months vs. 25.7 months, p = 0.3) or median OS (49.5 months vs. 50.2 months, p = 0.67) in patients who received either palbociclib or ribociclib, respectively. De novo disease is significantly associated with prolonged median PFS and median OS compared with recurrence disease (47.1 months vs. 20.3 months (p = 0.0002) and 77.4 months vs. 37.3 months (p = 0.0003), respectively). PR– tumours have significantly reduced median PFS and OS compared with PR+ disease (19.2 months vs. 38 months (p = 0.003) and 34.3 months vs. 62.6 months (p = 0.02), respectively). In the very elderly (>80 years), median PFS and OS are significantly shorter compared with patients who are 65 years or below (14.5 months vs. 30.2 months (p = 0.01), and 77.4 months vs. 29.6 months (p = 0.009), respectively) in the palbociclib group. Our data suggest that the benefit in the very elderly is limited, and PR+/de novo disease obtains the maximum survival benefit.
Access to Care and Healthcare Quality Metrics for Patients with Advanced Genitourinary Cancers in Urban versus Rural Areas
Authors: Li Haoran , Sahu Kamal Kant , Kumar Shruti Adidam , Tripathi Nishita , Sayegh Nicolas , Nordblad Blake , Chigarira Beverly , Gupta Sumati , Maughan Benjamin L. , Agarwal Neeraj , Swami Umang
Published: October 2023

Compared to the urban population, patients in rural areas face healthcare disparities and experience inferior healthcare-related outcomes. To compare the healthcare quality metrics and outcomes between patients with advanced genitourinary cancers from rural versus urban areas treated at a tertiary cancer hospital, in this retrospective study, eligible patients with advanced genitourinary cancers were treated at Huntsman Cancer Institute, an NCI-Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center in Utah. Rural–urban commuting area codes were used to classify the patients’ residences as being in urban (1–3) or rural (4–10) areas. The straight line distances of the patients’ residences from the cancer center were also calculated and included in the analysis. The median household income data were obtained and calculated from “The Michigan Population Studies Center”, based on individual zip codes. In this study, 2312 patients were screened, and 1025 eligible patients were included for further analysis (metastatic prostate cancer (n = 679), metastatic bladder cancer (n = 184), and metastatic renal cell carcinoma (n = 162). Most patients (83.9%) came from urban areas, while the remainder were from rural areas. Both groups had comparable demographic profiles and tumor characteristics at baseline. The annual median household income of urban patients was $8604 higher than that of rural patients (p < 0.001). There were fewer urban patients with Medicare (44.9% vs. 50.9%) and more urban patients with private insurance (40.4% vs. 35.1%). There was no difference between the urban and rural patients regarding receiving systemic therapies, enrollment in clinical trials, or tumor genomic profiling. The overall survival rate was not significantly different between the two populations in metastatic prostate, bladder, and kidney cancer, respectively. As available in a tertiary cancer hospital, access to care can mitigate the difference in the quality of healthcare and clinical outcomes in urban versus rural patients.