bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S)/Polysulfides (H2Sn) Signalling and TRPA1 Channels Modification on Sulfur Metabolism
Authors: Kimura Hideo
Published: January 2024

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and polysulfides (H2Sn, n ≥ 2) produced by enzymes play a role as signalling molecules regulating neurotransmission, vascular tone, cytoprotection, inflammation, oxygen sensing, and energy formation. H2Sn, which have additional sulfur atoms to H2S, and other S-sulfurated molecules such as cysteine persulfide and S-sulfurated cysteine residues of proteins, are produced by enzymes including 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase (3MST). H2Sn are also generated by the chemical interaction of H2S with NO, or to a lesser extent with H2O2. S-sulfuration (S-sulfhydration) has been proposed as a mode of action of H2S and H2Sn to regulate the activity of target molecules. Recently, we found that H2S/H2S2 regulate the release of neurotransmitters, such as GABA, glutamate, and D-serine, a co-agonist of N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors. H2S facilitates the induction of hippocampal long-term potentiation, a synaptic model of memory formation, by enhancing the activity of NMDA receptors, while H2S2 achieves this by activating transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) channels in astrocytes, potentially leading to the activation of nearby neurons. The recent findings show the other aspects of TRPA1 channels—that is, the regulation of the levels of sulfur-containing molecules and their metabolizing enzymes. Disturbance of the signalling by H2S/H2Sn has been demonstrated to be involved in various diseases, including cognitive and psychiatric diseases. The physiological and pathophysiological roles of these molecules will be discussed.
TERT Promoter Methylation Is Oxygen-Sensitive and Regulates Telomerase Activity
Authors: Dogan Fatma , Forsyth Nicholas R.
Published: January 2024

Telomere repeats protect linear chromosomes from degradation, and telomerase has a prominent role in their maintenance. Telomerase has telomere-independent effects on cell proliferation, DNA replication, differentiation, and tumorigenesis. TERT (telomerase reverse transcriptase enzyme), the catalytic subunit of telomerase, is required for enzyme activity. TERT promoter mutation and methylation are strongly associated with increased telomerase activation in cancer cells. TERT levels and telomerase activity are downregulated in stem cells during differentiation. The link between differentiation and telomerase can provide a valuable tool for the study of the epigenetic regulation of TERT. Oxygen levels can affect cellular behaviors including proliferation, metabolic activity, stemness, and differentiation. The role of oxygen in driving TERT promoter modifications in embryonic stem cells (ESCs) is poorly understood. We adopted a monolayer ESC differentiation model to explore the role of physiological oxygen (physoxia) in the epigenetic regulation of telomerase and TERT. We further hypothesized that DNMTs played a role in physoxia-driven epigenetic modification. ESCs were cultured in either air or a 2% O2 environment. Physoxia culture increased the proliferation rate and stemness of the ESCs and induced a slower onset of differentiation than in ambient air. As anticipated, downregulated TERT expression correlated with reduced telomerase activity during differentiation. Consistent with the slower onset of differentiation in physoxia, the TERT expression and telomerase activity were elevated in comparison to the air-oxygen-cultured ESCs. The TERT promoter methylation levels increased during differentiation in ambient air to a greater extent than in physoxia. The chemical inhibition of DNMT3B reduced TERT promoter methylation and was associated with increased TERT gene and telomerase activity during differentiation. DNMT3B ChIP (Chromatin immunoprecipitation) demonstrated that downregulated TERT expression and increased proximal promoter methylation were associated with DNMT3B promoter binding. In conclusion, we have demonstrated that DNMT3B directly associates with TERT promoter, is associated with differentiation-linked TERT downregulation, and displays oxygen sensitivity. Taken together, these findings help identify novel aspects of telomerase regulation that may play a role in better understanding developmental regulation and potential targets for therapeutic intervention.
Tetanus Severity Classification in Low-Middle Income Countries through ECG Wearable Sensors and a 1D-Vision Transformer
Authors: Lu Ping , Wang Zihao , Ha Thi Hai Duong , Hai Ho Bich ,   VITAL Consortium, Thwaites Louise , Clifton David A.
Published: January 2024

Tetanus, a life-threatening bacterial infection prevalent in low- and middle-income countries like Vietnam, impacts the nervous system, causing muscle stiffness and spasms. Severe tetanus often involves dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system (ANS). Timely detection and effective ANS dysfunction management require continuous vital sign monitoring, traditionally performed using bedside monitors. However, wearable electrocardiogram (ECG) sensors offer a more cost-effective and user-friendly alternative. While machine learning-based ECG analysis can aid in tetanus severity classification, existing methods are excessively time-consuming. Our previous studies have investigated the improvement of tetanus severity classification using ECG time series imaging. In this study, our aim is to explore an alternative method using ECG data without relying on time series imaging as an input, with the aim of achieving comparable or improved performance. To address this, we propose a novel approach using a 1D-Vision Transformer, a pioneering method for classifying tetanus severity by extracting crucial global information from 1D ECG signals. Compared to 1D-CNN, 2D-CNN, and 2D-CNN + Dual Attention, our model achieves better results, boasting an F1 score of 0.77 ± 0.06, precision of 0.70 ± 0. 09, recall of 0.89 ± 0.13, specificity of 0.78 ± 0.12, accuracy of 0.82 ± 0.06 and AUC of 0.84 ± 0.05.
Design and Reality-Based Modeling Optimization of a Flexible Passive Joint Paddle for Swimming Robots
Authors: Hu Junzhe , Xu Yaohui , Chen Pengyu , Xie Fengran , Li Hanlin , He Kai
Published: January 2024

Rowing motion with paired propellers is an essential actuation mechanism for swimming robots. Previous work in this field has typically employed flexible propellers to generate a net thrust or torque by using changes in the compliance values of flexible structures under the influence of a fluid. The low stiffness values of the flexible structures restrict the upper limit of the oscillation frequency and amplitude, resulting in slow swimming speeds. Furthermore, complex coupling between the fluid and the propeller reduce the accuracy of flexible propeller simulations. A design of a flexible passive joint paddle was proposed in this study, and a dynamics model and simulation of the paddle were experimentally verified. In order to optimize the straight swimming speed, a data-driven model was proposed to improve the simulation accuracy. The effects of the joint number and controller parameters on the robot’s straight swimming speed were comprehensively investigated. The multi-joint paddle exhibited significantly improved thrust over the single-joint paddle in a symmetric driving mode. The data-driven model reduced the total error of the simulated data of the propulsive force in the range of control parameters to 0.51%. Swimming speed increased by 3.3 times compared to baseline. These findings demonstrate the utility of the proposed dynamics and data-driven models in the multi-objective design of swimming robots.
Exploring the Hidden Complexity: Entropy Analysis in Pulse Oximetry of Female Athletes
Authors: Cabanas Ana M. , Fuentes-Guajardo Macarena , Sáez Nicolas , Catalán Davidson D. , Collao-Caiconte Patricio O. , Martín-Escudero Pilar
Published: January 2024

This study examines the relationship between physiological complexity, as measured by Approximate Entropy (ApEn) and Sample Entropy (SampEn), and fitness levels in female athletes. Our focus is on their association with maximal oxygen consumption (VO2,max). Our findings reveal a complex relationship between entropy metrics and fitness levels, indicating that higher fitness typically, though not invariably, correlates with greater entropy in physiological time series data; however, this is not consistent for all individuals. For Heart Rate (HR), entropy measures suggest stable patterns across fitness categories, while pulse oximetry (SpO2) data shows greater variability. For instance, the medium fitness group displayed an ApEn(HR) = 0.57±0.13 with a coefficient of variation (CV) of 22.17 and ApEn(SpO2) = 0.96±0.49 with a CV of 46.08%, compared to the excellent fitness group with ApEn(HR) = 0.60±0.09 with a CV of 15.19% and ApEn(SpO2) =0.85±0.42 with a CV of 49.46%, suggesting broader physiological responses among more fit individuals. The larger standard deviations and CVs for SpO2 entropy may indicate the body’s proficient oxygen utilization at higher levels of physical demand. Our findings advocate for combining entropy metrics with wearable sensor technology for improved biomedical analysis and personalized healthcare.
Examining the Moderating Role of Reasons in Masstige Luxury Buying Behavior
Authors: Uluturk Ayse Sedef , Asan Umut
Published: January 2024

This study proposes a new model derived from Behavioral Reasoning Theory (BRT) to examine the purchasing behavior of masstige jewelry consumers. The suggested model provides a more comprehensive understanding of the determinants of purchasing masstige products by considering values and reasons in addition to the global motives and intention. The study also examines, for the first time, the moderating role of reasons. It explores how reasons may strengthen or weaken the impact of perceived values on global motives. The proposed model was empirically tested using partial least squares-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) with survey data on the consumption of masstige jewelry brands in Türkiye. To provide a more complete understanding of the moderating role of reasons, submodels were constructed for different value–reason combinations. The results demonstrate notable differences in the goodness-of-fit measures between the moderated and non-moderated models. Specifically, reasons contributed to enhanced explanations of global motives and intention, both directly and indirectly. However, not all submodels yielded significant results in terms of the moderator effect. Thus, the empirical tests supported the hypotheses regarding the moderating effect only partially. Overall, the current findings further extend the existing frameworks and provide valuable insights into masstige jewelry purchasing behavior, which can be used by marketers to develop more effective strategies.
ELF5: A Molecular Clock for Breast Aging and Cancer Susceptibility
Authors: Miyano Masaru , LaBarge Mark A.
Published: January 2024

Breast cancer is predominantly an age-related disease, with aging serving as the most significant risk factor, compounded by germline mutations in high-risk genes like BRCA1/2. Aging induces architectural changes in breast tissue, particularly affecting luminal epithelial cells by diminishing lineage-specific molecular profiles and adopting myoepithelial-like characteristics. ELF5 is an important transcription factor for both normal breast and breast cancer development. This review focuses on the role of ELF5 in normal breast development, its altered expression throughout aging, and its implications in cancer. It discusses the lineage-specific expression of ELF5, its regulatory mechanisms, and its potential as a biomarker for breast-specific biological age and cancer risk.
Immuno-Transcriptomic Profiling of Blood and Tumor Tissue Identifies Gene Signatures Associated with Immunotherapy Response in Metastatic Bladder Cancer
Authors: Desponds Emma , Croci Davide , Wosika Victoria , Hadadi Noushin , Fonseca Costa Sara S. , Ciarloni Laura , Ongaro Marco , Zdimerova Hana , Leblond Marine M. , Hosseinian Ehrensberger Sahar , Romero Pedro , Verdeil Grégory
Published: January 2024

Blood-based biomarkers represent ideal candidates for the development of non-invasive immuno-oncology-based assays. However, to date, no blood biomarker has been validated to predict clinical responses to immunotherapy. In this study, we used next-generation sequencing (RNAseq) on bulk RNA extracted from whole blood and tumor samples in a pre-clinical MIBC mouse model. We aimed to identify biomarkers associated with immunotherapy response and assess the potential application of simple non-invasive blood biomarkers as a therapeutic decision-making assay compared to tissue-based biomarkers. We established that circulating immune cells and the tumor microenvironment (TME) display highly organ-specific transcriptional responses to ICIs. Interestingly, in both, a common lymphocytic activation signature can be identified associated with the efficient response to immunotherapy, including a blood-specific CD8+ T cell activation/proliferation signature which predicts the immunotherapy response.
Deficiency of Stabilin-1 in the Context of Hepatic Melanoma Metastasis
Authors: Wohlfeil Sebastian A. , Olsavszky Ana , Irkens Anna Lena , Häfele Verena , Dietsch Bianca , Straub Niklas , Goerdt Sergij , Géraud Cyrill
Published: January 2024

Background: This study analyzed the role of Stabilin-1 on hepatic melanoma metastasis in preclinical mouse models. Methods: In Stabilin-1−/− mice (Stab1 KO), liver colonization of B16F10 luc2 and Wt31 melanoma was investigated. The numbers, morphology, and vascularization of hepatic metastases and the hepatic microenvironment were analyzed by immunofluorescence. Results: While hepatic metastasis of B16F10 luc2 or Wt31 melanoma was unaltered between Stab1 KO and wildtype (Ctrl) mice, metastases of B16F10 luc2 tended to be smaller in Stab1 KO. The endothelial differentiation of both types of liver metastases was similar in Stab1 KO and Ctrl. No differences in initial tumor cell adhesion and retention to the liver vasculature were detected in the B16F10 luc2 model. Analysis of the immune microenvironment revealed a trend towards higher levels of CD45+Gr-1+ cells in Stab1 KO as compared to Ctrl in the B16F10 luc2 model. Interestingly, significantly higher levels of POSTN were found in the matrix of hepatic metastases of Wt31, while liver metastases of B16F10 luc2 showed a trend towards increased deposition of RELN. Conclusions: Hepatic melanoma metastases show resistance to Stabilin-1 targeting approaches. This suggests that anti-Stab1 therapies should be considered with respect to the tumor entity or target organs.
The Clinical, Genomic, and Transcriptomic Landscape of BRAF Mutant Cancers
Authors: Kazandjian Suzanne , Rousselle Emmanuelle , Dankner Matthew , Cescon David W. , Spreafico Anna , Ma Kim , Kavan Petr , Batist Gerald , Rose April A. N.
Published: January 2024

Background: BRAF mutations are classified into four molecularly distinct groups, and Class 1 (V600) mutant tumors are treated with targeted therapies. Effective treatment has not been established for Class 2/3 or BRAF Fusions. We investigated whether BRAF mutation class differed according to clinical, genomic, and transcriptomic variables in cancer patients. Methods: Using the AACR GENIE (v.12) cancer database, the distribution of BRAF mutation class in adult cancer patients was analyzed according to sex, age, primary race, and tumor type. Genomic alteration data and transcriptomic analysis was performed using The Cancer Genome Atlas. Results: BRAF mutations were identified in 9515 (6.2%) samples among 153,834, with melanoma (31%), CRC (20.7%), and NSCLC (13.9%) being the most frequent cancer types. Class 1 harbored co-mutations outside of the MAPK pathway (TERT, RFN43) vs. Class 2/3 mutations (RAS, NF1). Across all tumor types, Class 2/3 were enriched for alterations in genes involved in UV response and WNT/β-catenin. Pathway analysis revealed enrichment of WNT/β-catenin and Hedgehog signaling in non-V600 mutated CRC. Males had a higher proportion of Class 3 mutations vs. females (17.4% vs. 12.3% q = 0.003). Non-V600 mutations were generally more common in older patients (aged 60+) vs. younger (38% vs. 15% p < 0.0001), except in CRC (15% vs. 30% q = 0.0001). Black race was associated with non-V600 BRAF alterations (OR: 1.58; p < 0.0001). Conclusions: Class 2/3 BRAFs are more present in Black male patients with co-mutations outside of the MAPK pathway, likely requiring additional oncogenic input for tumorigenesis. Improving access to NGS and trial enrollment will help the development of targeted therapies for non-V600 BRAF mutations.
Biocatalysis for the Synthesis of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients in Deep Eutectic Solvents: State-of-the-Art and Prospects
Authors: Zhang Ningning , Domínguez de María Pablo , Kara Selin
Published: January 2024

Biocatalysis holds immense potential for pharmaceutical development as it enables synthetic routes to various chiral building blocks with unparalleled selectivity. Therein, solvent and water use account for a large contribution to the environmental impact of the reactions. In the spirit of Green Chemistry, a transition from traditional highly diluted aqueous systems to intensified non-aqueous media to overcome limitations (e.g., water shortages, recalcitrant wastewater treatments, and low substrate loadings) has been observed. Benefiting from the spectacular advances in various enzyme stabilization techniques, a plethora of biotransformations in non-conventional media have been established. Deep eutectic solvents (DESs) emerge as a sort of (potentially) greener non-aqueous medium with increasing use in biocatalysis. This review discusses the state-of-the-art of biotransformations in DESs with a focus on biocatalytic pathways for the synthesis of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). Representative examples of different enzyme classes are discussed, together with a critical vision of the limitations and discussing prospects of using DESs for biocatalysis.
A New Systemic Disease Mouse Model for Glioblastoma Capable of Single-Tumour-Cell Detection
Authors: Ware Thomas M. B. , Luwor Rodney B. , Zhu Hong-Jian
Published: January 2024

Background: Glioblastoma is characterised by extensive infiltration into the brain parenchyma, leading to inevitable tumor recurrence and therapeutic failure. Future treatments will need to target the specific biology of tumour recurrence, but our current understanding of the underlying mechanisms is limited. Significantly, there is a lack of available methods and models that are tailored to the examination of tumour recurrence. Methods: NOD-SCID mice were orthotopically implanted with luciferase-labelled donor U87MG or MU20 glioblastoma cells. Four days later, an unlabelled recipient tumor was implanted on the contralateral side. The mice were euthanised at a humane end-point and tissue and blood samples were collected for ex vivo analyses. Results: The ex vivo analyses of the firefly-labelled MU20 tumours displayed extensive invasion at the primary tumour margins, whereas the firefly-labelled U87MG tumours exhibited expansive phenotypes with no evident invasions at the tumour margins. Luciferase signals were detected in the contralateral unlabelled recipient tumours for both the U87MG and MU20 tumours compared to the non-implanted control brain. Remarkably, tumour cells were uniformly detected in all tissue samples of the supratentorial brain region compared to the control tissue, with single tumour cells detected in some tissue samples. Circulating tumour cells were also detected in the blood samples of most of the xenografted mice. Moreover, tumour cells were detected in the lungs of all of the mice, a probable event related to haematogenous dissemination. Similar results were obtained when the U87MG cells were alternatively labelled with gaussian luciferase. Conclusions: These findings describe a systemic disease model for glioblastoma which can be used to investigate recurrence biology and therapeutic efficacy towards recurrence.
Anti-Neuroinflammatory Effects of Arecae pericarpium on LPS-Stimulated BV2 Cells
Authors: Cho Hyeon-gyu , Kim Dong-Uk , Oh Jin-Young , Park Sung-Joo , Kweon Bitna , Bae Gi-Sang
Published: January 2024

Arecae pericarpium (AP), the fruit peel of the betel palm, is a traditional Oriental herbal medicine. AP is used to treat various diseases and conditions, such as ascites, edema, and urinary retention, in traditional Korean medicine. Recent studies have demonstrated its anti-obesity and antibacterial effects; however, its anti-neuroinflammatory effects have not yet been reported. Therefore, we investigated the anti-neuroinflammatory effects of AP on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated mouse microglia in this study. To determine the anti-neuroinflammatory effects of AP on BV2 microglial cells, we examined the production of nitric oxide (NO) using Griess assay and assessed the mRNA expression levels of inflammatory mediators, such as inducible NO synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase (COX)-2, and pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, using a real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Furthermore, we determined the levels of mitogen-activated protein kinases and IκBα via Western blotting to understand the regulating mechanisms of AP. AP treatment decreased NO production in LPS-stimulated BV2 cells. Additionally, AP suppressed the expression of iNOS and COX-2 and the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. AP also inhibited the activation of p38 and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) in LPS-stimulated BV2 cells. Therefore, AP exerts anti-neuroinflammatory effects via inactivation of the p38 and NF-κB pathways.
Association between Family History of Breast Cancer and Breast Density in Saudi Premenopausal Women Participating in Mammography Screening
Authors: Kanbayti Ibrahem Hussain , Alzahrani Mayada A. , Yeslam Yara O. , Habib Noora H. , Hadadi Ibrahim , Almaimoni Yousef , Alahmadi Adnan , Ekpo Ernest U.
Published: January 2024

Background: Mammographic density and family history of breast cancer (FHBC) are well-established independent factors affecting breast cancer risk; however, the association between these two risk factors in premenopausal-screened women remains unclear. The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between mammographic density and FHBC among Saudi premenopausal-screened women. Methods: A total of 446 eligible participants were included in the study. Mammographic density was assessed qualitatively using the Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BIRADS 4th edition). Logistic regression models were built to investigate the relationship between mammographic density and FHBC. Results: Women with a family history of breast cancer demonstrated an 87% greater chance of having dense tissue than women without a family history of breast cancer (95% CI: 1.14–3.08; p = 0.01). Having a positive family history for breast cancer in mothers was significantly associated with dense tissue (adjusted odds ratio (OR): 5.6; 95% CI: 1.3–24.1; p = 0.02). Conclusion: Dense breast tissue in Saudi premenopausal women undergoing screening may be linked to FHBC. If this conclusion is replicated in larger studies, then breast cancer risk prediction models must carefully consider these breast cancer risk factors.
The Invasion of Caulerpa cylindracea Sonder 1845 in the Calabria Coastal Seas
Authors: Cantasano Nicola , Di Martino Vincenzo , Pellicone Gaetano
Published: January 2024

Caulerpa cylindracea, Indo-Pacific and thermophilic macroalgal species, have spread in Italian coastal waters, especially in the western Mediterranean Sea. Also, along the Calabria coastline, this Invasive Alien Species (IAS) was able to colonize most of the western and eastern seasides of the region. This research was conducted between 1999 and 2021 through a detailed cost-effective citizen science program. The novelty of this research was to determine the overall distribution of Caulerpa cylindracea along Calabria seawaters from the Tyrrhenian to the Ionian coasts. The results of the monitoring survey highlighted the presence of Caulerpa cylindracea in 45 collecting stations throughout the Calabrian coastline. This regional assessment showed the extensive adaptability of the species to different environmental conditions: from exposed to sheltered sites, in shaded and sunny coastal areas and also throughout pristine and polluted waters. The rapid and increasing spread of the species could affect the structure of Mediterranean biota or, otherwise, could lead in time to new ecological niches. As highlighted in the most recent literature, it is necessary to update monitoring and mapping plans for the protection of marine biodiversity through close coordination between scientists, citizens and policy makers, all engaged to ensure effective management of invasive processes.
Shoulder-Restricted Friction Deposition for Aluminum Alloy Coatings on Titanium Alloys
Authors: Guo Yuanhang , Dong Jihong , Lv Zongliang , Xie Yuming , Huang Yongxian , Meng Xiangchen
Published: January 2024

In order to solve the problem of a thin deposition layer on the titanium alloy in the traditional friction surfacing process of dissimilar Ti/Al metals, new shoulder-restricted friction deposition (SRFD) equipment was successfully developed by introducing a restricted shoulder. Using a laser to roughen the titanium substrate, the process verification of Al deposition onto TC4 was realized. The material utilization was close to 100%, and a deposition layer with a thickness of 0.8 mm and a strong bonded interface was obtained. The peel strength of the triple-layer deposited joints was 121 MPa.
Aluminum Co-Deposition via DC Magnetron Sputtering for Enhanced Pitting Resistance of Copper–Nickel Alloys
Authors: Yun Sang-Du , Kim Yeonwon , Lee Jun-Seok , Noh Jung-Pil , Kim Beom-Soo , Kwon Jae-Sung , Choi Sung-Woong , Yang Jeong-Hyeon
Published: January 2024

To investigate the improvements in the resistance of Cu–Ni alloys to surface pitting corrosion, Cu–Ni thin films containing Al were fabricated via DC magnetron sputtering. The morphologies of the fabricated samples were obtained using a scanning electron microscopy, which yielded information on the crystal size and sample surface before and after corrosion tests. X-ray diffraction was employed for the structural characterization of the as-deposited films, and vibrational spectroscopy was used to verify the corrosion products. The corrosion behaviors of the Cu–Ni and Cu–Ni–Al samples were examined using electrochemical polarization and cyclic corrosion tests. The Al co-deposited samples showed a refined crystal size as compared to the Cu–Ni sample, suggesting that they are more susceptible to the formation of a passivation film. The corrosion current density of the Cu–Ni–Al was reduced, and the corrosion potential was lower than that without Al content. The negative shift in the corrosion potential of the Al-containing samples indicates that the Al2O3 film suppressed the cathodic reaction, resulting in a decrease in the corrosion rate. These results are consistent with the cyclic corrosion test results, in which no pitting corrosion is observed in the Cu–Ni–Al sample.
Reliability Evaluation of EB-PVD Thermal Barrier Coatings in High-Speed Rotation and Gas Thermal Shock
Authors: Yan Weiliang , Li Cong , Liu Zhiyuan , Cheng Chunyu , Yang Li
Published: January 2024

The uncertain service life of thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) imposes constraints on their secure application. In addressing this uncertainty, this study employs the Monte Carlo simulation method for reliability evaluation, quantifying the risk of TBC peeling. For reliability evaluation, the failure mode needs to be studied to determine failure criteria. The failure mode of high-speed rotating TBCs under gas thermal shock was studied by combining fluid dynamics simulations and experiments. Based on the main failure mode, the corresponding failure criterion was established using the energy release rate, and its limit state equation was derived. After considering the dispersion of parameters, the reliability of TBCs was quantitatively evaluated using failure probability and sensitivity analysis methods. The results show that the main mode is the fracture of the ceramic layer itself, exhibiting a distinctive top-down “step-like” thinning and peeling morphology. The centrifugal force emerges as the main driving force for this failure mode. The failure probability value on the top side of the blade is higher, signifying that coating failure is more likely at this location, aligning with the experimental findings. The key parameters influencing the reliability of TBCs are rotation speed, temperature, and the thermal expansion coefficient. This study offers a valuable strategy for the secure and reliable application of TBCs on aeroengine turbine blades.
Pseudo-Spin Polarized One-Way Elastic Wave Eigenstates in One-Dimensional Phononic Superlattices
Authors: Deymier Pierre A. , Runge Keith , Khanikaev Alexander , Alù Andrea
Published: January 2024

We investigate a one-dimensional discrete binary elastic superlattice bridging continuous models of superlattices that showcase a one-way propagation character, as well as the discrete elastic Su–Schrieffer–Heeger model, which does not exhibit this character. By considering Bloch wave solutions of the superlattice wave equation, we demonstrate conditions supporting elastic eigenmodes that do not satisfy the translational invariance of Bloch waves over the entire Brillouin zone, unless their amplitude vanishes for a certain wave number. These modes are characterized by a pseudo-spin and occur only on one side of the Brillouin zone for a given spin, leading to spin-selective one-way wave propagation. We demonstrate how these features result from the interplay of the translational invariance of Bloch waves, pseudo-spins, and a Fabry–Pérot resonance condition in the superlattice unit cell.
Asymptotic Solutions of Steady Lamellar Eutectic Growth in Directional Solidification for Small Tangent Values of the Contact Angles
Authors: Xiao Jing , Li Xiangming
Published: January 2024

A system of steady lamellar eutectic growth in directional solidification is considered with the case of small tangent values of the contact angles. The mathematical model is given in the non-dimensional rectangular coordinate system and the uniformly valid asymptotic solutions are obtained based on the method of the asymptotic expansions. The necessary condition for existing asymptotic solutions was obtained. The results indicate that the curvature undercooling and the solute undercooling determined the patterns of the solid–liquid interface. The dimensional average undercooling presents a relationship with eutectic spacing and pulling velocity. It can be seen that the dimensional average undercooling in front of both phases is not equal, and the total average undercooling as a function of the lamellar eutectic spacing exhibits a minimum. The minimum undercooling spacing decreases with an increase in the pulling velocity, which is in good agreement with Jackson and Hunt’s results.
Differences in Anatomic Adaptation and Injury Patterns Related to Valgus Extension Overload in Overhead Throwing Athletes
Authors: Stevens Kathryn J. , Chaudhari Akshay S. , Kuhn Karin J.
Published: January 2024

The purpose of our study was to determine differences in adaptative and injury patterns in the elbow related to valgus extension overload (VEO) in overhead throwing athletes by age. A total of 86 overhead throwing athletes and 23 controls underwent MRI or MR arthrography (MRA) of the elbow. Throwing athletes were divided by age into three groups: ≤16 years (26 subjects), 17–19 years (25 subjects), and ≥20 years (35 subjects). Consensus interpretation of each MRI was performed, with measurements of ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) thickness and subchondral sclerosis at the radial head, humeral trochlea, and olecranon process. A higher frequency of apophyseal and stress injuries was seen in adolescent athletes and increased incidence of soft tissue injuries was observed in older athletes. Early adaptive and degenerative changes were observed with high frequency independent of age. Significant differences were observed between athletes and controls for UCL thickness (p < 0.001) and subchondral sclerosis at the radial head (p < 0.001), humeral trochlea (p < 0.001), and olecranon process (p < 0.001). Significant differences based on athlete age were observed for UCL thickness (p < 0.001) and subchondral sclerosis at the olecranon process (p = 0.002). Our study highlights differences in anatomic adaptations related to VEO at the elbow between overhead throwing athletes and control subjects, as well as across age in throwing athletes.
Post-COVID-19 Vaccination Myocarditis: A Histopathologic Study on a Monocentric Series of Six Cases
Authors: Ahn Hyo-Suk , Ahn Yuran , Jang Jaehyuk , Bu Seonghyun , Lim Sungmin , Kim Chanjoon , Lee Jong-Min , Lee Kyungji , Seo Kyung-Jin
Published: January 2024

Many reports on the development of myocarditis following coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination (PCVM) have emerged. However, only a few case studies have investigated endomyocardial biopsy (EMB) results. This study describes the clinicopathologic features of PCVM. We surveyed all hospitalized patients in a single university hospital in Korea and identified six cases of PCVM. All six patients underwent EMB, five of whom were men aged 15–85 years. All patients developed cardiac dysfunction. Among these patients, two had mild disease without sequelae, whereas the other four had dilated cardiomyopathy with depressed cardiac function. All six cases demonstrated lymphohistiocytic myocarditis. Two of our cases fulfilled the criterion of CD3+ T lymphocytes > 7 cells/mm2 (Case nos. 3 and 6), while the remaining four cases did not fulfill the Dallas criteria. In conclusion, most PCVM cases showed mild degree inflammation histopathologically, and some cases could not fulfill the Dallas criteria and were classified as borderline myocarditis.
Lightweight Spatial-Temporal Contextual Aggregation Siamese Network for Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Tracking
Authors: Chen Qiqi , Liu Jinghong , Liu Faxue , Xu Fang , Liu Chenglong
Published: January 2024

Benefiting from the powerful feature extraction capability of deep learning, the Siamese tracker stands out due to its advanced tracking performance. However, constrained by the complex backgrounds of aerial tracking, such as low resolution, occlusion, similar objects, small objects, scale variation, aspect ratio change, deformation and limited computational resources, efficient and accurate aerial tracking is still difficult to realize. In this work, we design a lightweight and efficient adaptive temporal contextual aggregation Siamese network for aerial tracking, which is designed with a parallel atrous module (PAM) and adaptive temporal context aggregation model (ATCAM) to mitigate the above problems. Firstly, by using a series of atrous convolutions with different dilation rates in parallel, the PAM can simultaneously extract and aggregate multi-scale features with spatial contextual information at the same feature map, which effectively improves the ability to cope with changes in target appearance caused by challenges such as aspect ratio change, occlusion, scale variation, etc. Secondly, the ATCAM adaptively introduces temporal contextual information to the target frame through the encoder-decoder structure, which helps the tracker resist interference and recognize the target when it is difficult to extract high-resolution features such as low-resolution, similar objects. Finally, experiments on the UAV20L, UAV123@10fps and DTB70 benchmarks demonstrate the impressive performance of the proposed network running at a high speed of over 75.5 fps on the NVIDIA 3060Ti.
New Types of Derivative Non-linear Schrödinger Equations Related to Kac–Moody Algebra A2(1)
Authors: Stefanov Aleksander Aleksiev
Published: January 2024

We derive a new system of integrable derivative non-linear Schrödinger equations with an L operator, quadratic in the spectral parameter with coefficients belonging to the Kac–Moody algebra A2(1). The construction of the fundamental analytic solutions of L is outlined and they are used to introduce the scattering data, thus formulating the scattering problem for the Lax pair L,M.
A Compact Bandpass Filter with Widely Tunable Frequency and Simple Bias Control
Authors: Xiang Qingxin , Tan Xiangguan , Ding Qingan , Zhang Yuping
Published: January 2024

This research paper introduces an innovative design for a compact bandpass filter, notable for achieving a substantial tuning range of operational frequencies using just a single bias voltage. The design is based on a planar microstrip approach, distinguished by its straightforward and efficient structure. Additionally, this filter is characterized by its excellent performance in suppressing out-of-band frequencies. To validate the practicality and effectiveness of this novel design, a compact filter was designed, manufactured, and measured. The testing results were impressive, showing that the filter’s measured center frequency could be tuned across a wide spectrum, from 1.1 to 3.1 GHz, achieving a relative bandwidth of up to 95%. Herein, the relative bandwidth is derived from the calculation of 2(fhigh − flow)/(fhigh + flow). Remarkably, the filter consistently maintains a return loss exceeding 19 dB throughout its tuning range. Additionally, it sustains a 15 dB return loss bandwidth greater than 90 MHz, with the insertion loss varying between a minimum of 0.9 dB and a maximum of 2.1 dB. The compactness of the filter is one of its standout features, with circuit dimensions measuring a mere 0.06λg × 0.09λg (physical dimensions is 13.8 mm × 21.3 mm), where λg represents the wavelength at the filter’s lowest center frequency.
A Sememe Prediction Method Based on the Central Word of a Semantic Field
Authors: Luo Guanran , Cui Yunpeng
Published: January 2024

A “sememe” is an indivisible minimal unit of meaning in linguistics. Manually annotating sememes in words requires a significant amount of time, so automated sememe prediction is often used to improve efficiency. Semantic fields serve as crucial mediators connecting the semantics between words. This paper proposes an unsupervised method for sememe prediction based on the common semantics between words and semantic fields. In comparison to methods based on word vectors, this approach demonstrates a superior ability to align the semantics of words and sememes. We construct various types of semantic fields through ChatGPT and design a semantic field selection strategy to adapt to different scenario requirements. Subsequently, following the order of word–sense–sememe, we decompose the process of calculating the semantic sememe similarity between semantic fields and target words. Finally, we select the word with the highest average semantic sememe similarity as the central word of the semantic field, using its semantic primes as the predicted result. On the BabelSememe dataset constructed based on the sememe knowledge base HowNet, the method of semantic field central word (SFCW) achieved the best results for both unstructured and structured sememe prediction tasks, demonstrating the effectiveness of this approach. Additionally, we conducted qualitative and quantitative analyses on the sememe structure of the central word.
Ka-Band Miniaturized 90 nm Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor Wideband Rat-Race Coupler Using Left-Handed and Right-Handed Transmission Lines
Authors: Chang Je-Yao , Lo Tsu-Yu , Chen Pin-Yen , Wei Tan-Zhi , Huang Shih-Ping , Tsai Wei-Ting , Liou Chong-Yi , Mao Shau-Gang
Published: January 2024

The traditional rat-race coupler comprises a quarter-wavelength transmission line and a three-quarter-wavelength transmission line. In this design, the slow-wave structure transmission line is employed to replace the conventional quarter-wavelength transmission line, and the three-quarter-wavelength transmission line is substituted with the left-handed transmission line. By using the TSMC CMOS 90 nm fabrication process, a circuit is created with a chip size of 300 μm × 200 μm, corresponding to the electrical size at 39 GHz of 0.039λ0 × 0.026λ0. The measured results demonstrate that the operating bandwidth is 35 to 43 GHz, with an amplitude imbalance of around 0 dB, a phase error within 1°, a return loss of less than 26 dB, and an isolation better than 40 dB.
Deep Learning in the Phase Extraction of Electronic Speckle Pattern Interferometry
Authors: Jiang Wenbo , Ren Tong , Fu Qianhua
Published: January 2024

Electronic speckle pattern interferometry (ESPI) is widely used in fields such as materials science, biomedical research, surface morphology analysis, and optical component inspection because of its high measurement accuracy, broad frequency range, and ease of measurement. Phase extraction is a critical stage in ESPI. However, conventional phase extraction methods exhibit problems such as low accuracy, slow processing speed, and poor generalization. With the continuous development of deep learning in image processing, the application of deep learning in phase extraction from electronic speckle interferometry images has become a critical topic of research. This paper reviews the principles and characteristics of ESPI and comprehensively analyzes the phase extraction processes for fringe patterns and wrapped phase maps. The application, advantages, and limitations of deep learning techniques in filtering, fringe skeleton line extraction, and phase unwrapping algorithms are discussed based on the representation of measurement results. Finally, this paper provides a perspective on future trends, such as the construction of physical models for electronic speckle interferometry, improvement and optimization of deep learning models, and quantitative evaluation of phase extraction quality, in this field.
A Metric Learning Perspective on the Implicit Feedback-Based Recommendation Data Imbalance Problem
Authors: Huang Weiming , Liu Baisong , Wang Zhaoliang
Published: January 2024

Paper recommendation systems are important for alleviating academic information overload. Such systems provide personalized recommendations based on implicit feedback from users, supplemented by their subject information, citation networks, etc. However, such recommender systems face problems like data sparsity for positive samples and uncertainty for negative samples. In this paper, we address these two issues and improve upon them from the perspective of metric learning. The algorithm is modeled as a push–pull loss function. For the positive sample pull-out operation, we introduce a context factor, which accelerates the convergence of the objective function through the multiplication rule to alleviate the data sparsity problem. For the negative sample push operation, we adopt an unbiased global negative sample method and use an intermediate matrix caching method to greatly reduce the computational complexity. Experimental results on two real datasets show that our method outperforms other baseline methods in terms of recommendation accuracy and computational efficiency. Moreover, our metric learning method that introduces context improves by more than 5% over the element-wise alternating least squares method. We demonstrate the potential of metric learning in addressing the problem of implicit feedback recommender systems with positive and negative sample imbalances.
Navigating Unstructured Space: Deep Action Learning-Based Obstacle Avoidance System for Indoor Automated Guided Vehicles
Authors: Aryanti Aryanti , Wang Ming-Shyan , Muslikhin Muslikhin
Published: January 2024

Automated guided vehicles (AGVs) have become prevalent over the last decade. However, numerous challenges remain, including path planning, security, and the capacity to operate safely in unstructured environments. This study proposes an obstacle avoidance system that leverages deep action learning (DAL) to address these challenges and meet the requirements of Industry 4.0 for AGVs, such as speed, accuracy, and robustness. In the proposed approach, the DAL is integrated into an AGV platform to enhance its visual navigation, object recognition, localization, and decision-making capabilities. Then DAL itself was introduced to combine the work of You Only Look Once (YOLOv4), speeded-up robust features (SURF), and k-nearest neighbor (kNN) and AGV control in indoor visual navigation. The DAL system triggers SURF to differentiate two navigation images, and kNN is used to verify visual distance in real time to avoid obstacles on the floor while searching for the home position. The testing findings show that the suggested system is reliable and fits the needs of advanced AGV operations.
A New Safety Distance Model Based on Braking Process Considering Adhesion Coefficient
Authors: Fei Rong , Ma Mengyang , Hei Xinhong , Yang Lu , Li Aimin , Qiu Yuan
Published: January 2024

The traditional safety distance model based on the braking process is inadequate for scenarios where the adhesion coefficient varies. This research presents a safety distance model that takes into account the real-time fluctuations in the adhesion coefficient during the braking process. The proposed safety distance model is the basis for a three-level control strategy aimed at ensuring the safety and stability of the car-following process. A simulation is conducted to model the variation of the road’s adhesion coefficient during car braking. The experimental results, obtained for various initial adhesion coefficients and speeds, demonstrate that the precision of the safety distance calculated is improved by a minimum of 14.99% when compared to the traditional safety distance. Furthermore, the simulation results of the car-following process of a motorcade consisting of five cars provide evidence of the safety and stability of the suggested model.
Blockchain Innovations, Applications, and Future Prospects
Authors: Taherdoost Hamed
Published: January 2024

This Special Issue delves into the diverse applications of blockchain technology, spanning topics including democratic elections, business models, secure data storage, and large-scale ICT security [...]
Labeling-Based Recipient Identification with Low-Order Modulation
Authors: Krasicki Maciej
Published: January 2024

Labeling-Based Recipient Identification (LABRID) brings the possibility of representing the destination station address in a Bit-Interleaved Coded Modulation with Iterative Decoding (BICM-ID) system by a signal labeling rule. Low-order modulations, such as BPSK or QPSK, pose a general problem for BICM-ID due to a limited convergence of iterative decoding. In the context of LABRID, they have one more drawback—a small number of different labeling rules in general; the number of the optimal ones, which exhibit the maximal asymptotic coding gain, is reduced even further. Meanwhile, LABRID needs a sizable collection of different optimal labeling rules to serve many users in large wireless networks. In this paper, the author suggests the use of hypercube BPSK or QPSK labeling to overcome all these challenges. By means of the Reactive Tabu Search (RTS) algorithm, more than 1500 equivalent optimal hypercube labeling rules are found. Analytical error bounds of the system are developed and supported by simulation experiments. Then, the focus is moved to the criterion to determine the frame destination at the LABRID receiver; a simple threshold-based method is proposed to keep the incorrect decision probability below 10−5. Finally, it is shown that LABRID outperforms a reference BICM-ID system in terms of computational complexity.