bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Visible—Light Driven Systems: Effect of the Parameters Affecting Hydrogen Production through Photoreforming of Organics in Presence of Cu2O/TiO2 Nanocomposite Photocatalyst
Authors: Muscetta Marica , Clarizia Laura , Race Marco , Andreozzi Roberto , Marotta Raffaele , Di Somma Ilaria
Published: February 2023

Several studies have shown that combining TiO2 and Cu2O enhances the photocatalytic activity of the material by generating a heterojunction capable of extending the light absorption in the visible and reducing the electron-hole recombination rate. Ball milling has been chosen as an alternative methodology for photocatalyst preparation, among the several techniques documented in the literature review. The results of a previously reported investigation enabled the identification of the most effective photocatalyst that can be prepared for hydrogen generation by combining Cu2O and TiO2 (i.e., 1%wt. Cu2O in TiO2 photocatalyst prepared by ball-milling method at 200 rpm and 1 min milling time). To optimize photocatalytic hydrogen generation in the presence of the greatest photocatalyst, the effects of (i) sacrificial species and their concentration, (ii) temperature, and (iii) pH of the system are taken into account, resulting in a light-to-chemical energy efficiency of 8% under the best-tested conditions. Last but not least, the possibility of using the present photocatalytic system under direct solar light irradiation is evaluated: the results indicate that nearly 60% of the hydrogen production recorded under sunlight can be attributed to the visible component of the solar spectrum, while the remaining 40% can be attributed to the UV component.
Combined Use of LoRaWAN Medium Access Control Protocols for IoT Applications
Authors: Leonardi Luca , Lo Bello Lucia , Patti Gaetano , Pirri Alessio , Pirri Mattia
Published: February 2023

The low power wide area networks (LPWANs) based on the LoRaWAN standard are suitable for Internet of Things (IoT) applications that involve a large number of low-power devices distributed over large areas. The LoRaWAN standard imposes some limitations on end-device configuration, such as the medium access strategies to be adopted, which depend on the region in which the network operates. In particular, in Europe, according to the ETSI regulations, a LoRaWAN end-device can use either a pure ALOHA medium access control (MAC) protocol or a polite medium access technique based on Listen Before Talk (LBT) Adaptive Frequency Agility (AFA). The aim of this work is to investigate the combined use of the two MAC protocols in the same LoRaWAN network. In particular, the work presents a simulative assessment of a LoRaWAN network that combines the use of Pure ALOHA and LBT AFA in realistic scenarios, under different workloads, when they work in compliance with the ETSI regulations. The work provides quantitative information that can help the network designer choose which protocol is more suitable for achieving the desired performance.
A Preliminary Study and Implementing Algorithm Using Finite State Automaton for Remote Identification of Drones
Authors: Koulouris Charalampos , Dimitrios Piromalis , Al-Darraji Izzat , Tsaramirsis Georgios , Musa Mu’azu Jibrin , Papageorgas Panagiotis
Published: February 2023

Electronic remote identification (ER-ID) is a new radio frequency (RF) technology that is initiated by the Federal Aviation Authorities (FAA). For security reasons, traffic control, and so on, ER-ID has been applied for drones by the FAA to enable them to transmit their unique identification and location so that unauthorized drones can be identified. The current limitation of the existing ER-ID algorithms is that the application is limited to the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth wireless controllers, which results in a maximum range of 10–20 m for Bluetooth and 50–100 m for Wi-Fi. In this study, a mathematical computing technique based on finite state automaton (FSA) is introduced to expand the range of the ER-ID RF system and reduce the energy required by the drone to use the technology. A finite number of states have been designed to include a larger range of wireless network techniques, enabling the drones to be recognized while they are further away and in remote areas. This is achieved by including other means of RF channels, such as 4G/5G, Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B), long range Internet of things (IoT), and satellite communications, in the suggested ER-ID algorithm of this study. The introduced algorithm is tested via a case study. The results showed the ability to detect drones using all types of available radio frequency communication systems (RF-CS) while also minimizing the consumed energy. Hence, the authorities can control the licensed drones by using available RF-CS devices, such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, which are already widely used for mobile phones, as an example.
Penetration Overload Prediction Method Based on a Deep Neural Network with Multiple Inputs
Authors: Ma Haoran , Sun Hang , Li Changsheng
Published: February 2023

In the process of high-speed penetration, penetrating ammunition is prone to problems such as penetration overload signal vibration and mixings and projectile attitude deflection. It is easy to misjudge if a fuze relies only on the overload data from the ground or the utilized program, and the actual penetration overload measured under actual launch conditions cannot be taken as the dynamic judgement basis. Therefore, a real-time penetration overload prediction method based on a deep neural network is proposed, which can predict overload values according to the projectile parameter settings, the real-time collection of overload information, and the calculation speed and assist the fuze in judging the target layer and projectile attitude. In this paper, we adopt a deep learning model with multiple time series inputs and modify the input coding mode so that the model can output a 48 μs overload curve within 20 μs, meeting the real-time signal processing requirements of the high-speed missile penetration process. The mean squared error between the predicted curve and the actual curve is 0.221 for the prediction of multilayer penetrating targets and 0.452 for the prediction of thick penetrating targets. A penetration overload prediction function can be realized.
Demand-Response Control in Smart Grids
Authors: Gharbi Atef , Ayari Mohamed , Yahya Abdulsamad Ebrahim
Published: February 2023

In the smart grid, electricity price is a key element for all participants in the electric power industry. To meet the smart grid’s various goals, Demand-Response (DR) control aims to change the electricity consumption behavior of consumers based on dynamic pricing or financial benefits. DR methods are divided into centralized and distributed control based on the communication model. In centralized control, consumers communicate directly with the power company, without communicating among themselves. In distributed control, consumer interactions offer data to the power utility about overall consumption. Online auctions are distributed systems with several software agents working on behalf of human buyers and sellers. The coordination model chosen can have a substantial impact on the performance of these software agents. Based on the fair energy scheduling method, we examined Vickrey and Dutch auctions and coordination models in an electronic marketplace both analytically and empirically. The number of software agents and the number of messages exchanged between these agents were all essential indicators. For the simulation, GridSim was used, as it is an open-source software platform that includes capabilities for application composition, resource discovery information services, and interfaces for assigning applications to resources. We concluded that Dutch auctions are better than Vickrey auctions in a supply-driven world where there is an abundance of power. In terms of equity, Dutch auctions are more equitable than Vickrey auctions. This is because Dutch auctions allow all bidders to compete on an equal footing, with each bidder having the same opportunity to win the item at the lowest possible price. In contrast, Vickrey auctions can lead to outcomes that favor certain bidders over others, as bidders may submit bids that are higher than necessary to increase their chances of winning.
Design of a Compact Planar Magnetic Levitation System with Wrench–Current Decoupling Enhancement
Authors: Trakarnchaiyo Chanuphon , Wang Yang , Khamesee Mir Behrad
Published: February 2023

Magnetic levitation technology has promising applications in modern manufacturing, especially for fine-motion stage and long-range omnidirectional planar motors. This paper presents the development of a compact planar maglev prototype with the potential to achieve both applications to increase flexibility for the manufacturing system. The planar stator is designed by using optimized square coils arranged in the zigzag configuration, which provides a better uniform magnetic flux density compared with another configuration. The stator is a compact and portable module with built-in current amplifier units. The single-disc magnet mover is deployed with five controllable degrees of freedom. The cross-coupling effect is decoupled by a precomputed Lorentz force based wrench—current transformation matrix stored in the lookup table. A 2-D linear interpolation is implemented to enhance decoupling effectiveness which is offered via discrete lookup data. Experiments with motion-tracking cameras and a basic controller demonstrate the results of fine step motion of 10 and 20 µm and rotation steps of 0.5 and 1.0 mrad. The potential for multidirectional material handling is represented by a total horizontal translation range of 20 mm by 20 mm with a maximum air gap of 26 mm and a total rotation range of 20 degrees for both roll and pitch.
“Scoliosis 3D”—A Virtual-Reality-Based Methodology Aiming to Examine AIS Females’ Body Image
Authors: Misterska Ewa , Górski Filip , Tomaszewski Marek , Buń Pawel , Gapsa Jakub , Słysz Anna , Głowacki Maciej
Published: February 2023

Modern techniques such as virtual-reality (VR) tasks might offer a unique method for eliciting state-variable fluctuations in body satisfaction and associated behaviors. The study aim was to develop the application of biometric avatars in VR as a useful tool to investigate changes within body representation in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). All the avatars were created on the basis of 3D scans of bodies of real female patients with thoracic scoliosis, of 12–18 years of age, consecutively selected for brace treatment or posterior correction and fusion. A 3D, white-light LED scanner was used. The models were rigged using 3DS Max software, to enable the possibility of human-type interaction and animation. The “Avatar Scoliosis 3D” is an innovative 3D, interactive-XR application, loosely based on the virtual-mirror concept, and contains a number of predefined avatars, each with a different Cobb angle. It is possible to change a selected avatar to one with a different Cobb angle (lower or higher), should the patient decide the visualization of the original is incompatible with their own perception. In conclusion, the possible application of biometric avatars in VR as a useful tool to investigate changes within body image in AIS was proposed.
Application of Thermochemical Method to Determine the Crystallinity Degree of Cellulose Materials
Authors: Ioelovich Michael
Published: February 2023

Currently, to characterize the crystallinity of cellulose, such an estimated parameter as the crystallinity index is used, measured by various methods and techniques. The main purpose of this article was to develop a thermochemical method for determining the real degree of crystallinity (X) of cellulose based on the measurement of the enthalpy of wetting. Various cellulose samples, such as MCC, pure cotton cellulose, bleached wood pulps, mercerized celluloses, and viscose rayon fibers, were used. For these samples, the exothermic wetting enthalpy (ΔHw), the maximum amount of sorbed moisture (Ao), as well as the X-ray index of crystallinity (CrI) were studied. The dependence of ΔHw on Ao was linear and can be expressed by the equation: ΔHw = k Ao, where the coefficient k = −336 (J/g). After substituting the theoretical value Ao,a = 0.5 (g/g) into this equation, the numerical value of maximum wetting enthalpy ΔHw,a = −168 (J/g) for completely amorphous cellulose was obtained. As a result, the equation for calculating the real crystallinity degree (X) expressed in mass fractions was derived: X = 1 − (ΔHw/ΔHw,a). Analysis of the obtained results showed that only the X parameter can characterize the real content of crystallites in cellulose samples, instead of the approximate CrI parameter.
Special Issue: Advances in the Synthesis of Biologically Important Intermediates/Drugs
Authors: Naicker Tricia
Published: February 2023

Chemical synthesis is a cornerstone of the development of medicinal chemistry, forming the basis for discovering compounds with new physical and/or biological properties [...]
Cyber Security Risk Modeling in Distributed Information Systems
Authors: Palko Dmytro , Babenko Tetiana , Bigdan Andrii , Kiktev Nikolay , Hutsol Taras , Kuboń Maciej , Hnatiienko Hryhorii , Tabor Sylwester , Gorbovy Oleg , Borusiewicz Andrzej
Published: February 2023

This paper deals with problems of the development and security of distributed information systems. It explores the challenges of risk modeling in such systems and suggests a risk-modeling approach that is responsive to the requirements of complex, distributed, and large-scale systems. This article provides aggregate information on various risk assessment methodologies; such as quantitative, qualitative, and hybrid methods; a comparison of their advantages and disadvantages; as well as an analysis of the possibility of application in distributed information systems. It also presents research on a comprehensive, dynamic, and multilevel approach to cyber risk assessment and modeling in distributed information systems based on security metrics and techniques for their calculation, which provides sufficient accuracy and reliability of risk assessment and demonstrates an ability to solve problems of intelligent classification and risk assessment modeling for large arrays of distributed data. The paper considers the main issues and recommendations for using risk assessment techniques based on the suggested approach.
Direct Synthesis of Silicon Compounds—From the Beginning to Green Chemistry Revolution
Authors: Pakuła Daria , Marciniec Bogdan , Przekop Robert E.
Published: February 2023

This paper discusses the historical beginnings and the current state of knowledge of the synthesis of organosilicon compounds and chlorine derivatives of silicon. The key importance of these compounds for modern industry, including the semiconductor industry (photovoltaic cells, microprocessors, memory chips and many other electronic elements) is highlighted. Significant environmental threats related to the production of these compounds and the research challenges aimed at their elimination are discussed. The complexity of the catalytic mechanism of direct reaction of silicon with CH3Cl and alcohols is presented in an accessible way. In the last part of the work, the directions of the development of direct synthesis technology in line with the principles of green chemistry are indicated.
Nile Tilapia Skin Impregnated with Antibacterial Silver/Titanium Dioxide Compounds
Authors: Marcolino Maíra Cristina , Guimarães Milena Lima , Fotius Jorge Alexandre Alencar , Colpini Leda Maria Saragiotto , da Costa Mateus Matiuzzi , de Oliveira Helinando Pequeno
Published: February 2023

The development of alternative (and free-of-antibiotics) antibacterial and antibiofilm agents is an important strategy to circumvent the resistance of bacteria to antibiotics. Herein, we explore the production of mixed oxides by incorporating silver nanoparticles in titanium dioxide as a silver concentration-dependent antibacterial agent that is further incorporated in Tilapia fish skin (a promising prototype of xenograft), integrating the antibacterial activity of mixed oxide into the intrinsic properties of Tilapia skin. The antibiofilm activity of samples prepared with high concentrations of silver (10 wt% of precursor AgNO3) has been considered a good antibiofilm response. The influence of silver content is also observed with respect to the minimum bactericidal concentration, which is reduced to 3.13 mg/mL with a characteristic kill time in the order of 30 min that is associated with antibiofilm activity in biofilm-forming strains of Staphylococcus aureus. These results indicate that modified Tilapia fish skin acquires antibacterial behavior and can be explored for xenografts with prospective applications in the light-dependent actuation of TiO2-based compounds.
Initial Conditions and Resilience in the Atmospheric Boundary Layer of an Urban Basin
Authors: Pacheco Patricio , Mera Eduardo , Fuentes Voltaire , Parodi Carolina
Published: February 2023

The possibilities of micrometeorological resilience in urban contexts immersed in a basin geographical configuration are investigated. For this purpose, time series data with measurements of meteorological variables (temperature, magnitude of wind speed and relative humidity) and atmospheric pollutants (PM2.5, PM10, CO) are analyzed through chaos theory, calculating the coefficient of Lyapunov (λ), the correlation dimension (Dc), the Hurst coefficient (H), the correlation entropy (SK), the fractal dimension (D) and the Lempel–Ziv complexity (LZ). Indicators are built for each measurement period (2010–2013 and 2017–2020), for each locality studied and located at different heights. These indicators, which correspond to the quotient between the entropy resulting from the meteorological variables and that of the pollutants, show sensitivity to height. Another important indicator, for identical measurement conditions, arises from the calculation of the fractal dimensions of the meteorological variables and that of the pollutants, which allows for comparative studies between the two periods. These indicators are conclusive in pointing out that, in a large city with basin geographical characteristics, subjected to an intensive urbanization process, there is no micrometeorological resilience and a great variation occurs in the initial conditions.
Assessing the Spatial Distribution of NO2 and Influencing Factors in Urban Areas—Passive Sampling in a Citizen Science Project in Berlin, Germany
Authors: Höhne Annelie , Schulte Rieke A. A. , Kulicke Melissa , Huynh Thu-Trang , Telgmann Maren , Frenzel Wolfgang , Held Andreas
Published: February 2023

Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) is a major air pollutant with diverse impacts on human health and the environment. In urban areas, road traffic is the main emission source for NO2. In Berlin, Germany, a network of measurement stations is operated by the state, fulfilling the monitoring requirements set by the European Union. To get a more detailed overview of the spatial distribution of NO2 concentrations in Berlin, a citizen science project allowed for collection of additional data and an increase in the number of sampling sites. Passive samplers (modified Palmes tubes) were distributed to participants to collect NO2 at a site of their choice. When returned, the samplers were analyzed based on the Griess–Ilosvay reaction and spectrophotometric detection. The results confirmed a seasonal trend of higher NO2 concentrations in winter and lower concentrations during the summer period. Furthermore, the spatially and monthly averaged NO2 concentrations observed in the study period from March 2019 to October 2020 were in good agreement with the average urban background concentration. At small spatial scales, a tendency of decreasing NO2 concentrations with increasing distance from roads was observed. Overall, this study shows the added benefit of extensive low-cost measurements of NO2 concentrations across urban environments in a citizen science project to complement stationary air pollution monitoring networks.
Spatial Distribution and Trends of Wind Energy at Various Time Scales over the South China Sea
Authors: Zhang Shuqin , Yang Xiaoqi , Weng Hanwei , Zhang Tianyu , Tang Ruoying , Wang Hao , Su Jinglei
Published: February 2023

In this study, the spatial distribution and trends of wind energy (as measured by wind and wind power density) were investigated from 1979 to 2021 across various time scales over the South China Sea (SCS)by utilizing ERA5 reanalysis data. The results indicate that the SCS possesses abundant wind energy. In addition, due to the fact that the East Asian monsoon dominates the SCS, the wind energy exhibits obvious seasonal changes. It is in winter and autumn that the winter monsoon (i.e., the northeast wind) prevails over the SCS. Here, the wind energy is abundant and reaches its maximum in December. In summer, the summer monsoon (i.e., the southwest wind) prevails over the SCS. Here, the wind energy is abundant over the southwestern SCS. In spring, however, the wind energy is poor. The annual mean wind energy shows a decreasing trend along the northern coast and an increasing trend over the central SCS. The trends of seasonal mean wind energy in winter, spring, and summer demonstrate a similar pattern to the annual mean wind energy. With respect to the intensity of the trends, they are strongest in winter, followed by spring and autumn, and weakest in summer. The trend of wind energy in autumn almost demonstrates the opposite pattern in comparison with the other seasons, i.e., both decreasing and increasing trends over the northern and southern SCS, respectively. The decreasing trend of wind energy along the northern coast of the SCS occurs in February, April, July, September, and November, whereas the increasing trend over the central SCS appears from the period of December to June. The spatial distribution and trends of wind energy over the SCS can help with issuing a more informed recommendation with respect to offshore wind energy planning.
A Nonparametric Dual Control Algorithm of Multidimensional Objects with Interval-Valued Observations
Authors: Arana-Jiménez Manuel , Medvedev Alexander V. , Chzhan Ekaterina
Published: February 2023

We focus on the dual interval control problem of multidimensional objects with delay. We propose a new nonparametric algorithm. In such a case, it is not necessary to determine a parametric structure of the investigated object. Another difficulty lies in the complex nature of the decision-making field as it might not be flexible or convenient for decision-makers to exactly quantify their opinions with crisp numbers. Due to this fact, we introduce the interval-valued observations into the algorithm by means of the single-level constraint interval arithmetic. The results of computational experiments illustrate the effectiveness of the algorithm in the case of using intervals instead of crisp values.
Refining Preference-Based Recommendation with Associative Rules and Process Mining Using Correlation Distance
Authors: Bin Ahmadon Mohd Anuaruddin , Yamaguchi Shingo , Mahamad Abd Kadir , Saon Sharifah
Published: February 2023

Online services, ambient services, and recommendation systems take user preferences into data processing so that the services can be tailored to the customer’s preferences. Associative rules have been used to capture combinations of frequently preferred items. However, for some item sets X and Y, only the frequency of occurrences is taken into consideration, and most of the rules have weak correlations between item sets. In this paper, we proposed a method to extract associative rules with a high correlation between multivariate attributes based on intuitive preference settings, process mining, and correlation distance. The main contribution of this paper is the intuitive preference that is optimized to extract newly discovered preferences, i.e., implicit preferences. As a result, the rules output from the methods has around 70% of improvement in correlation value even if customers do not specify their preference at all.
Evaluating Hydroxyapatite, Gold Nanoparticles, and Graphene-Copper as Bimodal Agents for X-ray and Computed Tomography
Authors: Pugliese Pereira Bruno , Antoine Claudia , de Barros Aline Oliveira da Silva , Pacífico Leonardo de Castro , Pijeira Martha Sahylí Ortega , Rossi Alexandre Malta , Ricci-Junior Eduardo , Alencar Luciana Magalhães Rebelo , Santos-Oliveira Ralph
Published: February 2023

A global need exists for new and more effective contrast agents for computed tomography and traditional X-ray modalities. Among the few options available nowadays, limitations imposed by industrial production, performance, and efficacy restrict the use and reduce the potential of both imaging techniques. The use of nanomaterials as new contrast agents for X-ray and computed tomography is an innovative and viable way to increase the options and enhance performance. In this study, we evaluated eight nanomaterials: hydroxyapatite doped with zinc (Zn-HA 10%); hydroxyapatite doped with strontium (Sr-HA 10%); hydroxyapatite without thermal treatment (HA 282 STT); thermally treated hydroxyapatite (HA 212 500 °C and HA 01.256 CTT 1000 °C); hydroxyapatite microspheres (HA microspheres); gold nanoparticles (AuNP); and graphene oxide doped with copper (Cu-GO). The results showed that for both imaging modalities; HA microspheres were the best option, followed by hydroxyapatite thermally treated at 1000 °C. The nanomaterials with the worst results were hydroxyapatite doped with zinc (Zn-HA 10%), and hydroxyapatite doped with strontium (Sr-HA 10%). Our data demonstrated the potential of using nanomaterials, especially HA microspheres, and hydroxyapatite with thermal treatment (HA 01.256 CTT 1000 °C) as contrast agents for X-ray and computed tomography.
Dynamics of Two-Link Musculoskeletal Chains during Fast Movements: Endpoint Force, Axial, and Shear Joint Reaction Forces
Authors: Biscarini Andrea
Published: February 2023

This study provides a dynamic model for a two-link musculoskeletal chain controlled by single-joint and two-joint muscles. The chain endpoint force, and the axial and shear components of the joint reaction forces, were expressed analytically as a function of the muscle forces or torques, the chain configuration, and the link angular velocities and accelerations. The model was applied to upper-limb ballistic push movements involving transverse plane shoulder flexion and elbow extension. The numerical simulation highlights that the shoulder flexion and elbow extension angular acceleration at the initial phase of the movement, and the elbow extension angular velocity and acceleration at the later phase of the movement, induce a proportional medial deviation in the endpoint force direction. The forearm angular velocity and acceleration selectively affect the value of the axial and shear components of the shoulder reaction force, depending on the chain configuration. The same goes for the upper arm and elbow. The combined contribution of the elbow extension angular velocity and acceleration may give rise to anterior shear force acting on the humerus and axial forearm traction force as high as 300 N. This information can help optimize the performance and estimate/control of the joint loads in ballistic sport activities and power-oriented resistance exercises.
Optimal Feature Selection-Based Dental Caries Prediction Model Using Machine Learning for Decision Support System
Authors: Kang In-Ae , Njimbouom Soualihou Ngnamsie , Kim Jeong-Dong
Published: February 2023

The high frequency of dental caries is a major public health concern worldwide. The condition is common, particularly in developing countries. Because there are no evident early-stage signs, dental caries frequently goes untreated. Meanwhile, early detection and timely clinical intervention are required to slow disease development. Machine learning (ML) models can benefit clinicians in the early detection of dental cavities through efficient and cost-effective computer-aided diagnoses. This study proposed a more effective method for diagnosing dental caries by integrating the GINI and mRMR algorithms with the GBDT classifier. Because just a few clinical test features are required for the diagnosis, this strategy could save time and money when screening for dental caries. The proposed method was compared to recently proposed dental procedures. Among these classifiers, the suggested GBDT trained with a reduced feature set achieved the best classification performance, with accuracy, F1-score, precision, and recall values of 95%, 93%, 99%, and 88%, respectively. Furthermore, the experimental results suggest that feature selection improved the performance of the various classifiers. The suggested method yielded a good predictive model for dental caries diagnosis, which might be used in more imbalanced medical datasets to identify disease more effectively.
Mother–Infant Brain-to-Brain Synchrony Patterns Reflect Caregiving Profiles
Authors: Endevelt-Shapira Yaara , Feldman Ruth
Published: February 2023

Biobehavioral synchrony, the coordination of physiological and behavioral signals between mother and infant during social contact, tunes the child’s brain to the social world. Probing this mechanism from a two-brain perspective, we examine the associations between patterns of mother–infant inter-brain synchrony and the two well-studied maternal behavioral orientations—sensitivity and intrusiveness—which have repeatedly been shown to predict positive and negative socio-emotional outcomes, respectively. Using dual-electroencephalogram (EEG) recordings, we measure inter-brain connectivity between 60 mothers and their 5- to 12-month-old infants during face-to-face interaction. Thirty inter-brain connections show significantly higher correlations during the real mother–infant face-to-face interaction compared to surrogate data. Brain–behavior correlations indicate that higher maternal sensitivity linked with greater mother–infant neural synchrony, whereas higher maternal intrusiveness is associated with lower inter-brain coordination. Post hoc analysis reveals that the mother-right-frontal–infant-left-temporal connection is particularly sensitive to the mother’s sensitive style, while the mother-left-frontal–infant-right-temporal connection indexes the intrusive style. Our results support the perspective that inter-brain synchrony is a mechanism by which mature brains externally regulate immature brains to social living and suggest that one pathway by which sensitivity and intrusiveness exert their long-term effect may relate to the provision of coordinated inputs to the social brain during its sensitive period of maturation.
The Effectiveness and Safety of Pharmaceutical-Grade Cannabidiol in the Treatment of Mastocytosis-Associated Pain: A Pilot Study
Authors: Rossignol Julien , Hatton Séverine , Ridley Ashley , Hermine Olivier , Greco Céline
Published: February 2023

Mastocytosis patients often experience a number of symptoms, including mastocytosis-associated pain that is difficult to manage due to resistance to usual antalgic treatments and/or the patient’s poor tolerance. Mastocytosis patients display significantly higher levels of indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase-1 (IDO1) activity, leading to hyperactivation of the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor. As cannabidiol (CBD) is known to inhibit IDO1′s enzymatic activity, we hypothesized that pharmaceutical-grade CBD is an effective treatment for mastocytosis-associated pain. Patients with non-advanced mastocytosis and refractory pain were eligible for inclusion in this observational pilot study. CBD was initiated at 50 mg/day and increased to a maximum of 900 mg/day. Pain was scored on a 0-to-10 numerical rating scale (NRS). A total of 44 patients were included over a 2-year period. The median dose of CBD prescribed was 300 mg/day (range: 50–900 mg/day). Elevated liver enzymes were observed in one patient. The mean ± standard deviation NRS pain score decreased significantly from 7.27 ± 1.35 before treatment to 3.78 ± 1.99 after 3 months of treatment (p < 0.0001). Fifteen patients (34%) were able to discontinue all their previous antalgic medications. CBD treatment might be a safe, effective treatment for mastocytosis-associated pain and its use requires confirmation in a randomized, controlled trial.
Gq-Mediated Arrhythmogenic Signaling Promotes Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Hohendanner Felix , Prabhu Ashok , Wilck Nicola , Stangl Verena , Pieske Burkert , Stangl Karl , Althoff Till F.
Published: February 2023

Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is promoted by various stimuli like angiotensin II, endothelin-1, epinephrine/norepinephrine, vagal activation, or mechanical stress, all of which activate receptors coupled to G-proteins of the Gαq/Gα11-family (Gq). Besides pro-fibrotic and pro-inflammatory effects, Gq-mediated signaling induces inositol trisphosphate receptor (IP3R)-mediated intracellular Ca2+ mobilization related to delayed after-depolarisations and AF. However, direct evidence of arrhythmogenic Gq-mediated signaling is absent. Methods and results: To define the role of Gq in AF, transgenic mice with tamoxifen-inducible, cardiomyocyte-specific Gαq/Gα11-deficiency (Gq-KO) were created and exposed to intracardiac electrophysiological studies. Baseline electrophysiological properties, including heart rate, sinus node recovery time, and atrial as well as AV nodal effective refractory periods, were comparable in Gq-KO and control mice. However, inducibility and mean duration of AF episodes were significantly reduced in Gq-KO mice—both before and after vagal stimulation. To explore underlying mechanisms, left atrial cardiomyocytes were isolated from Gq-KO and control mice and electrically stimulated to study Ca2+-mobilization during excitation–contraction coupling using confocal microscopy. Spontaneous arrhythmogenic Ca2+ waves and sarcoplasmic reticulum content-corrected Ca2+ sparks were less frequent in Gq-KO mice. Interestingly, nuclear but not cytosolic Ca2+ transient amplitudes were significantly decreased in Gq-KO mice. Conclusion: Gq-signaling promotes arrhythmogenic atrial Ca2+-release and AF in mice. Targeting this pathway, ideally using Gq-selective, biased receptor ligands, may be a promising approach for the treatment and prevention of AF. Importantly, the atrial-specific expression of the Gq-effector IP3R confers atrial selectivity mitigating the risk of life-threatening ventricular pro-arrhythmic effects.
Towards Standardisation of a Diffuse Midline Glioma Patient-Derived Xenograft Mouse Model Based on Suspension Matrices for Preclinical Research
Authors: ’t Hart Elvin , Bianco John , Besse Helena C. , Chin Joe Kie Lois A. , Cornet Lesley , Eikelenboom Kimberly L. , van den Broek Thijs J.M. , Derieppe Marc , Su Yan , Hoving Eelco W. , Ries Mario G. , van Vuurden Dannis G.
Published: February 2023

Diffuse midline glioma (DMG) is an aggressive brain tumour with high mortality and limited clinical therapeutic options. Although in vitro research has shown the effectiveness of medication, successful translation to the clinic remains elusive. A literature search highlighted the high variability and lack of standardisation in protocols applied for establishing the commonly used HSJD-DIPG-007 patient-derived xenograft (PDX) model, based on animal host, injection location, number of cells inoculated, volume, and suspension matrices. This study evaluated the HSJD-DIPG-007 PDX model with respect to its ability to mimic human disease progression for therapeutic testing in vivo. The mice received intracranial injections of HSJD-DIPG-007 cells suspended in either PBS or Matrigel. Survival, tumour growth, and metastases were assessed to evaluate differences in the suspension matrix used. After cell implantation, no severe side effects were observed. Additionally, no differences were detected in terms of survival or tumour growth between the two suspension groups. We observed delayed metastases in the Matrigel group, with a significant difference compared to mice with PBS-suspended cells. In conclusion, using Matrigel as a suspension matrix is a reliable method for establishing a DMG PDX mouse model, with delayed metastases formation and is a step forward to obtaining a standardised in vivo PDX model.
Development and Validation of a Novel LC-MS/MS Method for a TDM-Guided Personalization of HSCT Conditioning with High-Dose Busulfan in Children
Authors: Cafaro Alessia , Pigliasco Federica , Baiardi Giammarco , Barco Sebastiano , Stella Manuela , Bandettini Roberto , Mattioli Francesca , Faraci Maura , Cangemi Giuliana
Published: February 2023

Personalization of busulfan (Bu) exposure via therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) is recommended for patients treated with high-dose conditioning regimens. Several laboratories’ developed methods are available in the literature with a lack of standardization. The aim of this study is to develop a new standardized LC-MS/MS method and validate it according to the international ICH M10 (EMA) guidelines. Our method is based on rapid protein precipitation from 50 µL plasma followed by separation on a reversed-phase C-18 UHPLC column after the addition of deuterated internal standard and has been tested on real samples from pediatric patients treated with myeloablative conditioning regimens, including Bu, before autologous or allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). The validated LC-MS/MS method is linear over wide concentration ranges (125–2000 ng/mL), accurate, and reproducible in the absence of matrix effects, allowing for the specific and rapid quantification of Bu and allowing next-dose recommendations to be made in a timely fashion to answer clinicians’ needs. Given the lack of data on the stability of Bu in real clinical samples, stability was assessed both on quality controls and on real samples to set up a robust protocol in real-life conditions. This novel LC-MS/MS method is suitable for application to the TDM-guided personalization of conditioning treatments with high-dose busulfan in pediatric patients undergoing HSCT.
Seeking the Amygdala: Novel Use of Diffusion Tensor Imaging to Delineate the Basolateral Amygdala
Authors: Obenaus Andre , Kinney-Lang Eli , Jullienne Amandine , Haddad Elizabeth , Wendel Kara M. , Shereen A. Duke , Solodkin Ana , Dunn Jeffrey F. , Baram Tallie Z.
Published: February 2023

The amygdaloid complex, including the basolateral nucleus (BLA), contributes crucially to emotional and cognitive brain functions, and is a major target of research in both humans and rodents. However, delineating structural amygdala plasticity in both normal and disease-related contexts using neuroimaging has been hampered by the difficulty of unequivocally identifying the boundaries of the BLA. This challenge is a result of the poor contrast between BLA and the surrounding gray matter, including other amygdala nuclei. Here, we describe a novel diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) approach to enhance contrast, enabling the optimal identification of BLA in the rodent brain from magnetic resonance (MR) images. We employed this methodology together with a slice-shifting approach to accurately measure BLA volumes. We then validated the results by direct comparison to both histological and cellular-identity (parvalbumin)-based conventional techniques for defining BLA in the same brains used for MRI. We also confirmed BLA connectivity targets using DTI-based tractography. The novel approach enables the accurate and reliable delineation of BLA. Because this nucleus is involved in and changed by developmental, degenerative and adaptive processes, the instruments provided here should be highly useful to a broad range of neuroimaging studies. Finally, the principles used here are readily applicable to numerous brain regions and across species.
Design of a Bioinspired Underwater Glider for Oceanographic Research
Authors: Hernández-Jaramillo Diana C. , Vásquez Rafael E.
Published: February 2023

The Blue Economy, which is based on the sustainable use of the ocean, is demanding better understanding of marine ecosystems, which provide assets, goods, and services. Such understanding requires the use of modern exploration technologies, including unmanned underwater vehicles, in order to acquire quality information for decision-making processes. This paper addresses the design process for an underwater glider, to be used in oceanographic research, that was inspired by leatherback sea turtles (Dermochelys coriacea), which are known to have a superior diving ability and enhanced hydrodynamic performance. The design process combines elements from Systems Engineering and bioinspired design approaches. The conceptual and preliminary design stages are first described, and they allowed mapping the user’s requirements into engineering characteristics, using quality function deployment to generate the functional architecture, which later facilitated the integration of the components and subsystems. Then, we emphasize the shell’s bioinspired hydrodynamic design and provide the design solution for the desired vehicle’s specifications. The bioinspired shell yielded a lift coefficient increase due to the effect of ridges and a decrease in the drag coefficient at low angles of attack. This led to a greater lift-to-drag ratio, a desirable condition for underwater gliders, since we obtained a greater lift while producing less drag than the shape without longitudinal ridges.
Flexible Amperometric Immunosensor Based on Colloidal Quantum Dots for Detecting the Myeloperoxidase (MPO) Systemic Inflammation Biomarker
Authors: Tao Yanbing , Zhao Yunong , Wang Le , Huang Jing , Chen Yan , Huang Qing , Song Boxiang , Li Hua-Yao , Chen Jianjun , Liu Huan
Published: February 2023

Myeloperoxidase (MPO) has been demonstrated to be a biomarker of neutrophilic inflammation in various diseases. Rapid detection and quantitative analysis of MPO are of great significance for human health. Herein, an MPO protein flexible amperometric immunosensor based on a colloidal quantum dot (CQD)-modified electrode was demonstrated. The remarkable surface activity of CQDs allows them to bind directly and stably to the surface of proteins and to convert antigen–antibody specific binding reactions into significant currents. The flexible amperometric immunosensor provides quantitative analysis of MPO protein with an ultra-low limit of detection (LOD) (31.6 fg mL−1), as well as good reproducibility and stability. The detection method is expected to be applied in clinical examination, POCT (bedside test), community physical examination, home self-examination and other practical scenarios.
Surface Plasmon Resonance Microscopy Based on Total Internal Reflection
Authors: Zhang Teliang , Wang Xueliang , Zeng Youjun , Huang Songfeng , Dai Xiaoqi , Kong Weifu , Liu Qian , Chen Jiajie , Qu Junle , Shao Yonghong
Published: February 2023

Surface plasmon resonance microscopy (SPRM) has been widely employed in biological fields because of its high spatial resolution and label-free detection modality. In this study, SPRM based on total internal reflection (TIR) is studied via a home-built SPRM system, and the principle of imaging of a single nanoparticle is analyzed as well. By designing a ring filter and combining it with the deconvolution algorithm in Fourier space, the parabolic tail of the nanoparticle image is removed, in which a spatial resolution of 248 nm is obtained. In addition, we also measured the specific binding between the human IgG antigen and goat anti-human IgG antibody using the TIR-based SPRM. The experimental results have proved that the system can image sparse nanoparticles and monitor biomolecular interactions.
Depression Is Associated with an Increased Risk of Subsequent Cancer Diagnosis: A Retrospective Cohort Study with 235,404 Patients
Authors: Mössinger Hannah , Kostev Karel
Published: February 2023

Background: Depression and cancer share common risk factors and mechanisms of disease. The current literature has not explored the effect of depression on cancer risk. We assessed the difference in cancer risk in patients with and without depression in a large cohort in Germany. Methods: We compared cancer risk and incidence in patients with and without depression aged 18 or above diagnosed between 2015 and 2018 documented in the Disease Analyzer Database. Patients from a comparator group were matched 1:1 to patients with depression based on propensity scores. Patients with previous bipolar disorder (F31), mania (F30) or schizophrenia (F20–29) and cancer diagnosis 3 years prior to index date were excluded. Analyses were stratified by cancer type, age group, and gender. Results: A total of 117,702 patients with depression were included and matched 1:1, resulting in a cohort overall of 235,404. 4.9% of patients with depression compared to 4.1% without depression received at least one cancer diagnosis over 3.9 years median follow-up. The depression group showed an 18% increase in risk for a cancer diagnosis overall, with largest increased risk in lung cancer (HR: 1.39 [1.21–1.60], p < 0.0001), cancers of the gastro-intestinal-tract (HR: 1.30 [1.15–1.46], p < 0.0001), breast (HR: 1.23 [1.12–1.35], p < 0.0001) and urinary (HR: 1.23 [1.06–1.43], p < 0.01). Similarly, the incidence of cancer diagnosis overall increased by 22% for depressed patients. IRs showed no difference across cancer types. Conclusions: Depression increased the risk for cancer diagnosis consistently independent of the comparison method used. The potential mediating factors or shared mechanisms of the disease require further investigation.
Biomechanical Analysis of Unplanned Gait Termination According to a Stop-Signal Task Performance: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Koo Dong-Kyun , Kwon Jung-Won
Published: February 2023

There is a correlation between cognitive inhibition and compensatory balance response; however, the correlation between response inhibition and gait termination is not clear. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate the gait parameters of the lower extremity that occurred during unplanned gait termination (UGT) in two groups classified by the stop-signal reaction time (SSRT). Methods: Twenty young adults performed a stop-signal task and an unplanned gait termination separately. UGT required subjects to stop on hearing an auditory cue during randomly selected trials. The spatiotemporal and kinematic gait parameters were compared between the groups during UGT. Results: In phase one, the fast group had a significantly greater angle and angular velocity of knee flexion and ankle plantar flexion than the slow group (p < 0.05). Phase two showed that the fast group had a significantly greater angle and angular velocity of knee extension than the slow group (p < 0.05). Concerning the correlation analysis, the angle and angular velocity of knee flexion and ankle plantar flexion showed a negative correlation with the SSRT during UGT in phase one (p < 0.05). Phase two showed that the angle and angular velocity of knee extension was negatively correlated with the SSRT during UGT (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The shorter the SSRT, the greater the angle and joint angular velocity of the ankle or knee joint that were prepared and adjusted for gait termination. The correlation between the SSRT and UGT suggests that a participant’s capacity to inhibit an incipient finger response is associated with their ability to make a corrective gait pattern in a choice-demanding environment.