bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Phase-Based Roadmap for Proliferating BIM within the Construction Sector Using DEMATEL Technique: Perspectives from Egyptian Practitioners
Authors: Akal Ahmed Yousry , Kineber Ahmed Farouk , Mohandes Saeed Reza
Published: October 2022

Building Information Modelling (BIM) has not been sufficiently proliferated in the developing construction communities. This is owing to the lack of incorporating the key success factors (KSFs) of BIM implementation in a phase-based roadmap to support implementing BIM in practice on a step-by-step approach. With this in mind, this work aims at (1) defining the KSFs for implementing BIM within the developing economies’ socio-economic environment, (2) investigating the interrelationships among the KSFs, and (3) establishing the KSFs in a phased approach to devise a roadmap for their implementation on a step-by-step basis. First, 18 KSFs for implementing BIM have been specified by systematically investigating the pertinent literature and interviewing six well-qualified practitioners in BIM from Egypt, as a developing country. Second, from ten Egyptian BIM experts, data on the influences of the KSFs on each other have been gathered, employing a matrix format-based questionnaire. Third, the experts’ evaluations have been processed, utilizing the Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) technique. Proficiently, DEMATEL through its causal diagram portrayed the cause-and-effect relations map of the KSFs. Besides, it divided the KSFs into four clusters, each of which signifies a phase in the BIM implementation journey along with its corresponding priority as well as the priorities of the KSFs that it encompasses. The causal diagram indicated that phase one related KSFs of the BIM implementation journey: research and development investments, senior management support, and firm’s fiscal support contribute to the whole success of the developed BIM implementation roadmap. This study equips construction practitioners in the developing economies with a four-phased roadmap for applying the KSFs of BIM implementation journey in practice on a step-by-step basis. This contribution helps in better prioritizing their decisions and optimizing the allocation of their resources when applying BIM in their business. Hence, at a fast pace, BIM can be proliferated in those countries.
Mechanistic Studies and a Retrospective Cohort Study: The Interaction between PPAR Agonists and Immunomodulatory Agents in Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Wu Jian , Chu Emily , Paul Barry , Kang Yubin
Published: October 2022

Our previous study demonstrated that peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) agonists downregulated cereblon (CRBN) expression and reduced the anti-myeloma activity of lenalidomide in vitro and in vivo. We aimed to determine whether DNA methylation and protein degradation contribute to the effects of PPAR agonists. CRBN promoter methylation status was detected using methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction. The CRBN protein degradation rate was measured using a cycloheximide chase assay. Metabolomic analysis was performed in multiple myeloma (MM) cells treated with PPAR agonists and/or lenalidomide. Our retrospective study determined the effect of co-administration of PPAR agonists with immunomodulatory drugs on the outcomes of patients with MM. CpG islands of the CRBN promoter region became highly methylated upon treatment with PPAR agonists, whereas treatment with PPAR antagonists resulted in unmethylation. The CRBN protein was rapidly degraded after treatment with PPAR agonists. Lenalidomide and fenofibrate showed opposite effects on acylcarnitines and amino acids. Co-administration of immunomodulatory drugs and PPAR agonists was associated with inferior treatment responses and poor survival. Our study provides the first evidence that PPAR agonists reduce CRBN expression through various mechanisms including inducing methylation of CRBN promoter CpG island, enhancing CRBN protein degradation, and affecting metabolomics of MM cells.
DNA Repair Mechanisms, Protein Interactions and Therapeutic Targeting of the MRN Complex
Authors: McCarthy-Leo Claire , Darwiche Fatima , Tainsky Michael A.
Published: October 2022

Repair of a DNA double-strand break relies upon a pathway of proteins to identify damage, regulate cell cycle checkpoints, and repair the damage. This process is initiated by a sensor protein complex, the MRN complex, comprised of three proteins-MRE11, RAD50, and NBS1. After a double-stranded break, the MRN complex recruits and activates ATM, in-turn activating other proteins such as BRCA1/2, ATR, CHEK1/2, PALB2 and RAD51. These proteins have been the focus of many studies for their individual roles in hereditary cancer syndromes and are included on several genetic testing panels. These panels have enabled us to acquire large amounts of genetic data, much of which remains a challenge to interpret due to the presence of variants of uncertain significance (VUS). While the primary aim of clinical testing is to accurately and confidently classify variants in order to inform medical management, the presence of VUSs has led to ambiguity in genetic counseling. Pathogenic variants within MRN complex genes have been implicated in breast, ovarian, prostate, colon cancers and gliomas; however, the hundreds of VUSs within MRE11, RAD50, and NBS1 precludes the application of these data in genetic guidance of carriers. In this review, we discuss the MRN complex’s role in DNA double-strand break repair, its interactions with other cancer predisposing genes, the variants that can be found within the three MRN complex genes, and the MRN complex’s potential as an anti-cancer therapeutic target.
Palliative Treatment of Esophageal Cancer Using Calcium Electroporation
Authors: Egeland Charlotte , Baeksgaard Lene , Gehl Julie , Gögenur Ismail , Achiam Michael Patrick
Published: October 2022

Calcium electroporation (CaEP) is a novel cancer therapy wherein high intracellular calcium levels, facilitated by reversible electroporation, trigger tumor necrosis. This study aimed to establish safety with CaEP within esophageal cancer. Patients with non-curable esophageal cancer were included at Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet in 2021 and 2022. In an outpatient setting, calcium gluconate was injected intratumorally followed by reversible electroporation applied with an endoscopic electrode. The primary endpoint was the prevalence of adverse events, followed by palliation of dysphagia. All patients were evaluated with CT and upper endoscopies up to two months after treatment. The trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04958044). Eight patients were treated. One serious adverse event (anemia, requiring a single blood transfusion) and three adverse events (mild retrosternal pain (two) and oral thrush (one)) were registered. Initially, six patients suffered from dysphagia: two reported dysphagia relief and four reported no change. From the imaging evaluation, one patient had a partial response, three patients had no response, and four patients had progression. Six months after treatment, the patient who responded well was still in good condition and without the need for further oncological treatment. CaEP was conducted in eight patients with only a few side effects. This study opens the way for larger studies evaluating tumor regression and symptom palliation.
Quantitative Analysis of the Research Development Status and Trends of Tannery Wastewater Treatment Technology
Authors: Li Ming , Jia Xiang , Wang Jingrui , Wang Yang , Chen Yuting , Wu Junhao , Wang Ying , Shen Mengnan , Xue Honghai
Published: October 2022

In order to better grasp the development and trends of tannery wastewater (TWW) treatment research, this paper provides a review of the TWW treatment research dynamics based on the Web of Science (WoS) database and using CiteSpace software. The research dynamics, hot topics, evolutionary history and research trends in this field are revealed. The results showed that research related to TWW treatment has shown a high growth trend in the number of articles in recent years, and India was outstanding in terms of influence in this area. The keyword clustering analysis showed that the main research hotspots in the field of TWW treatment were biological treatment processes (phytoremediation, constructed wetlands, anaerobic treatment and biofilm reactors) and chemical treatment processes (coagulation and flocculation, and advanced oxidation processes). The analysis of new research frontiers showed that the bioremediation and the application of biofuel cells in TWW will become important research directions in the future.
Biocatalytic Cascade of Sebacic Acid Production with In Situ Co-Factor Regeneration Enabled by Engineering of an Alcohol Dehydrogenase
Authors: Lu Jie , Lu Dong , Wu Qiuyang , Jin Shuming , Liu Junfeng , Qin Meng , Deng Li , Wang Fang , Nie Kaili
Published: October 2022

Sebacic acid (1,10-decanedioic acid) is an important chemical intermediate. Traditional chemical oxidation methods for sebacic acid production do not conform with “green” manufacturing. With the rapid development of enzymatic technologies, a biocatalytic cascade method based on the Baeyer–Villiger monooxygenase was developed. The most attractive point of the method is the oleic acid that can be utilized as raw material, which is abundant in nature. However, this bio-catalysis process needs co-factor electron carriers, and the high cost of the co-factor limits its progress. In this piece of work, a co-factor in situ regeneration system between ADH from Micrococcus luteus WIUJH20 (MlADH) and BVMO is proposed. Since the co-factors of both enzymes are different, switching the co-factor preference of native MlADH from NAD+ to NADP+ is necessary. Switching research was carried out based on in silico simulation, and the sites of Tyr36, Asp 37, Ala38, and Val39 were selected for mutation investigation. The experimental results demonstrated that mutants of MlADH_D37G and MlADH_D37G/A38T/V39K would utilize NADP+ efficiently, and the mutant of MlADH_D37G/A38T/V39K demonstrated the highest sebacic acid yield with the combination of BVMO. The results indicated that the in situ co-factor generation system is successfully developed, which would improve the efficiency of the biocatalytic cascade for sebacic acid production and is helpful for simplifying product isolation, thus, reducing the cost of the enzymatic transformations process.
Cellular Senescence, Aging and Non-Aging Processes in Calcified Aortic Valve Stenosis: From Bench-Side to Bedside
Authors: Molnár Andrea Ágnes , Pásztor Dorottya , Merkely Béla
Published: October 2022

Aortic valve stenosis (AS) is the most common valvular heart disease. The incidence of AS increases with age, however, a significant proportion of elderly people have no significant AS, indicating that both aging and nonaging pathways are involved in the pathomechanism of AS. Age-related and stress-induced cellular senescence accompanied by further active processes represent the key elements of AS pathomechanism. The early stage of aortic valve degeneration involves dysfunction and disruption of the valvular endothelium due to cellular senescence and mechanical stress on blood flow. These cells are replaced by circulating progenitor cells, but in an age-dependent decelerating manner. When endothelial denudation is no longer replaced by progenitor cells, the path opens for focal lipid deposition, initiating subsequent oxidation, inflammation and micromineralisation. Later stages of AS feature a complex active process with extracellular matrix remodeling, fibrosis and calcification. Echocardiography is the gold standard method for diagnosing aortic valve disease, although computed tomography and cardiac magnetic resonance are useful additional imaging methods. To date, no medical treatment has been proven to halt the progression of AS. Elucidation of differences and similarities between vascular and valvular calcification pathomechanisms may help to find effective medical therapy and reduce the increasing health burden of the disease.
Integrated Multi-Omic Characterization of the Detachment Process of Adherent Vero Cells with Animal-Based and Animal-Origin-Free Enzymes
Authors: Yu Shouzhi , Huang Yunchao , Wu Chongyang , Fu Weibin , Liang Hongyang , Chen Chen , Cheng Yue , Guo Yancen , Zhang Ying , Wang Hui , Yang Xiaoming
Published: October 2022

Cell detachment techniques using animal-derived enzymes are necessary for the production of biopharmaceuticals that are made with the help of adherent cell cultures, although the majority of protein therapeutics (>USD 100 billion of income per year) are made under suspension cultures that do not require animal-derived proteins for manufacture. In this study, we establish the optimal Vero cell detachment process, and analyze physiological changes during cell detachment at the cellular and molecular levels. Using flow cytometry, we find that animal-based enzymes are more likely to induce apoptosis than animal-origin-free enzymes. We analyze the levels of RNAs, proteins, and metabolites in cells treated with two detachment strategies, and identify 1237 differentially expressed genes, 2883 differential proteins, and 210 differential metabolites. Transcriptomic analysis shows that animal-origin-free enzymes have a less significant effect on gene expression levels. Combined with proteomic analysis, animal-based enzymes affect the oxidative phosphorylation process and reduce the mRNA and protein levels of Cytochrome C Oxidase Assembly Protein 17 (COX17), which is a Cytochrome C Oxidase Copper Chaperone involved in the mitochondrial respiratory chain. Metabolomics analysis indicates that the levels of spermine and spermidine, which are involved in the glutathione metabolism pathway and apoptosis inhibition, are significantly reduced. Therefore, COX17, spermine, and spermidine may be biomarkers for evaluating the cell subculture process. In conclusion, we have deeply characterized the cell subculture process through multi-omics, which may provide important guidance for research and process evaluation to optimize cell detachment processes.
Multiple Light-Dark Signals Regulate Expression of the DEAD-Box RNA Helicase CrhR in Synechocystis PCC 6803
Authors: Ritter Sean P. A. , Brand Logan A. , Vincent Shelby L. , Rosana Albert Remus R. , Lewis Allison C. , Whitford Denise S. , Owttrim George W.
Published: October 2022

Since oxygenic photosynthesis evolved in the common ancestor of cyanobacteria during the Archean, a range of sensing and response strategies evolved to allow efficient acclimation to the fluctuating light conditions experienced in the diverse environments they inhabit. However, how these regulatory mechanisms are assimilated at the molecular level to coordinate individual gene expression is still being elucidated. Here, we demonstrate that integration of a series of three distinct light signals generate an unexpectedly complex network regulating expression of the sole DEAD-box RNA helicase, CrhR, encoded in Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803. The mechanisms function at the transcriptional, translational and post-translation levels, fine-tuning CrhR abundance to permit rapid acclimation to fluctuating light and temperature regimes. CrhR abundance is enhanced 15-fold by low temperature stress. We initially confirmed that the primary mechanism controlling crhR transcript accumulation at 20 °C requires a light quantity-driven reduction of the redox poise in the vicinity of the plastoquinone pool. Once transcribed, a specific light quality cue, a red light signal, was required for crhR translation, far-red reversal of which indicates a phytochrome-mediated mechanism. Examination of CrhR repression at 30 °C revealed that a redox- and light quality-independent light signal was required to initiate CrhR degradation. The crucial role of light was further revealed by the observation that dark conditions superseded the light signals required to initiate each of these regulatory processes. The findings reveal an unexpected complexity of light-dark sensing and signaling that regulate expression of an individual gene in cyanobacteria, an integrated mechanism of environmental perception not previously reported.
The Potential Application of Human Gingival Fibroblast-Conditioned Media in Pulp Regeneration: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Vu Huong Thu , Yoon Ji-Young , Park Jae-Hee , Lee Hae-Hyoung , Dashnyam Khandmaa , Kim Hae-Won , Lee Jung-Hwan , Shin Ji-Sun , Kim Jong-Bin
Published: October 2022

Regenerative endodontic treatment based on tissue engineering has recently gained interest in contemporary restorative dentistry. However, low survival rates and poor potential differentiation of stem cells could undermine the success rate of pulp regenerative therapy. Human gingival fibroblast-conditioned medium (hGF-CM) has been considered a potential therapy for tissue regeneration due to its stability in maintaining multiple factors essential for tissue regeneration compared to live cell transplantation. This study aimed to investigate the potency of hGF-CM on stem cells from human dental pulp (DPSC) in pulp regeneration. A series of experiments confirmed that hGF-CM contributes to a significant increase in proliferation, migration capability, and cell viability of DPSC after H2O2 exposure. Moreover, it has been proved to facilitate the odontogenic differentiation of DPSC via qRT-PCR, ALP (alkaline phosphatase), and ARS (Alizarin Red S) staining. It has been discovered that such highly upregulated odontogenesis is related to certain types of ECM proteins (collagen and laminin) from hGF-CM via proteomics. In addition, it is found that the ERK pathway is a key mechanism via inhibition assay based on RNA-seq result. These findings demonstrate that hGF-CM could be beneficial biomolecules for pulp regeneration.
Visual Function and Survival of Injured Retinal Ganglion Cells in Aged Rbfox1 Knockout Animals
Authors: Gu Lei , Kwong Jacky M. K. , Caprioli Joseph , Piri Natik
Published: October 2022

Rbfox1 is a multifunctional RNA binding protein that regulates various aspects of RNA metabolism important for neuronal differentiation and normal physiology. Rbfox1 has been associated with neurodevelopmental and neurological conditions as well as age-related neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. We have shown that in mammalian retinas Rbfox1 is expressed in retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and in amacrine cells (ACs). This study investigates the effect of advanced age (22-month-old mice) on visual function, retinal morphology and survival of injured retinal ganglion cells (RGC) in Rbfox1 knockout (KO) animals. A visual cliff test, which was used to evaluate visual function, showed that 22-month old Rbfox1 KO mice have profound depth perception deficiency. Retinal gross morphology in these animals appeared to be normal. Optic nerve crush (ONC) induced axonal injury resulted in approximately 50% of RGC loss in both Rbfox1 KO and age-matched control animals: the average RGC densities in uninjured control and Rbfox1 KO animals were 6274 ± 1673 cells/mm2 and 6004 ± 1531 cells/mm2, respectively, whereas 1 week after ONC, RGC numbers in the retinas of control and Rbfox1 KO mice were reduced to 2998 ± 858 cells/mm2 and 3036 ± 857 cells/mm2, respectively (Rbfox1 KO vs. Rbfox1 KO + ONC, p < 0.0001 and control vs. control + ONC, p < 0.0001). No significant difference between RGC numbers in Rbfox1 KO + ONC and age-matched control + ONC animals was observed, suggesting that Rbfox1 has no effect on the survival of injured RGCs. Interestingly, however, contrary to a commonly accepted view that the number of RGCs in old (18 month of age) compared to young animals is reduced by approximately 40%, the RGC densities in 22-month-old mice in this study were similar to those of 4-month-old counterparts.
The Wnt/Beta-Catenin Pathway and Cytoskeletal Filaments Are Involved in the Positioning, Size, and Function of Lysosomes during Chick Myogenesis
Authors: Bagri Kayo Moreira , Oliveira Luiz Fernando , Pereira Miria Gomes , Abreu José Garcia , Mermelstein Claudia
Published: October 2022

Lysosomes are highly dynamic organelles involved in the breakdown and recycling of macromolecules, cell cycle, cell differentiation, and cell death, among many other functions in eukaryotic cells. Recently, lysosomes have been identified as cellular hubs for the modulation of intracellular signaling pathways, such as the Wnt/beta-catenin pathway. Here we analyzed morphological and functional characteristics of lysosomes in muscle and non-muscle cells during chick myogenesis, as well as their modulation by the Wnt/beta-catenin pathway. Our results show that (i) muscle and non-muscle cells show differences in lysosomal size and its distribution, (ii) lysosomes are found in spherical structures in myoblasts and fibroblasts and tubular structures in myotubes, (iii) lysosomes are found close to the plasma membrane in fibroblasts and close to the nucleus in myoblasts and myotubes, (iv) lysosomal distribution and size are dependent on the integrity of microtubules and microfilaments in myogenic cells, (v) alterations in lysosomal function, in the expression of LAMP2, and in Wnt/beta-catenin pathway affect the distribution and size of lysosomes in myogenic cells, (vi) the effects of the knockdown of LAMP2 on myogenesis can be rescued by the activation of the Wnt/beta-catenin pathway, and (vii) the chloroquine Lys05 is a potent inhibitor of both the Wnt/beta-catenin pathway and lysosomal function. Our data highlight the involvement of the Wnt/beta-catenin pathway in the regulation of the positioning, size, and function of lysosomes during chick myogenesis.
The Supplementation of Bee Bread Methanolic Extract to Egg Yolk or Soybean Lecithin Extenders Can Improve the Quality of Cryopreserved Ram Semen
Authors: Sharaf Asmaa E. , Khalil Wael A. , Khalifa Ezz I. , Nassan Mohamed A. , Swelum Ayman A. , El-Harairy Mostafa A.
Published: October 2022

Bee bread has numerous nutritional benefits and bioactive compounds. Other bee byproducts have been used as extender additives to improve semen cryopreservation. Here, we examined the effects of supplementing egg yolk extender (EYE) or soybean lecithin extender (SBLE) with bee bread extract (BBE) on the quality of cryopreserved ram semen. Semen was collected from five adult Rahmani rams once a week for 7 weeks. EYE and SBLE were supplemented with BBE. Antioxidant capacity and total phenolic compound, total flavonoid compound, and total soluble carbohydrate levels of BBE were measured. Sperm characteristics, including progressive motility, viability, abnormalities, membrane integrity, and acrosome integrity, were analyzed after equilibration, thawing, and thawing followed by a 2-h incubation. The total antioxidant capacity and malondialdehyde, hydrogen peroxide, aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, and total acid phosphatase levels in extenders were determined after thawing. Sperm apoptosis was analyzed using annexin V assays. SBLE was more effective than EYE for cryopreserving ram semen. Extender supplementation with BBE improved ram semen quality during freezing in a concentration-dependent pattern. Motility, vitality, and membrane integrity were particularly enhanced in BBE-treated semen. Additionally, BBE promoted antioxidant and enzymatic activities and reduced apoptosis in semen. Thus, extender supplementation with BBE improved sperm cryopreservation.
High Accuracy Classification of Developmental Toxicants by In Vitro Tests of Human Neuroepithelial and Cardiomyoblast Differentiation
Authors: Seidel Florian , Cherianidou Anna , Kappenberg Franziska , Marta Miriam , Dreser Nadine , Blum Jonathan , Waldmann Tanja , Blüthgen Nils , Meisig Johannes , Madjar Katrin , Henry Margit , Rotshteyn Tamara , Scholtz-Illigens Andreas , Marchan Rosemarie , Edlund Karolina , Leist Marcel , Rahnenführer Jörg , Sachinidis Agapios , Hengstler Jan Georg
Published: October 2022

Human-relevant tests to predict developmental toxicity are urgently needed. A currently intensively studied approach makes use of differentiating human stem cells to measure chemically-induced deviations of the normal developmental program, as in a recent study based on cardiac differentiation (UKK2). Here, we (i) tested the performance of an assay modeling neuroepithelial differentiation (UKN1), and (ii) explored the benefit of combining assays (UKN1 and UKK2) that model different germ layers. Substance-induced cytotoxicity and genome-wide expression profiles of 23 teratogens and 16 non-teratogens at human-relevant concentrations were generated and used for statistical classification, resulting in accuracies of the UKN1 assay of 87–90%. A comparison to the UKK2 assay (accuracies of 90–92%) showed, in general, a high congruence in compound classification that may be explained by the fact that there was a high overlap of signaling pathways. Finally, the combination of both assays improved the prediction compared to each test alone, and reached accuracies of 92–95%. Although some compounds were misclassified by the individual tests, we conclude that UKN1 and UKK2 can be used for a reliable detection of teratogens in vitro, and that a combined analysis of tests that differentiate hiPSCs into different germ layers and cell types can even further improve the prediction of developmental toxicants.
A Resilience Related Glial-Neurovascular Network Is Transcriptionally Activated after Chronic Social Defeat in Male Mice
Authors: Vennin Constance , Hewel Charlotte , Todorov Hristo , Wendelmuth Marlon , Radyushkin Konstantin , Heimbach André , Horenko Illia , Ayash Sarah , Müller Marianne B. , Schweiger Susann , Gerber Susanne , Lutz Beat
Published: October 2022

Upon chronic stress, a fraction of individuals shows stress resilience, which can prevent long-term mental dysfunction. The underlying molecular mechanisms are complex and have not yet been fully understood. In this study, we performed a data-driven behavioural stratification together with single-cell transcriptomics of the hippocampus in a mouse model of chronic social defeat stress. Our work revealed that in a sub-group exhibiting molecular responses upon chronic stress, the dorsal hippocampus is particularly involved in neuroimmune responses, angiogenesis, myelination, and neurogenesis, thereby enabling brain restoration and homeostasis after chronic stress. Based on these molecular insights, we applied rapamycin after the stress as a proof-of-concept pharmacological intervention and were able to substantially increase stress resilience. Our findings serve as a data resource and can open new avenues for further understanding of molecular processes underlying stress response and for targeted interventions supporting resilience.
Improving Body Mass Index in Students with Excess Weight through a Physical Activity Programme
Authors: Scurt Mădălina Doiniţa , Balint Lorand , Mijaică Raluca
Published: October 2022

The obesity epidemic among young people can be tackled through regular physical activity. For this purpose, we developed and implemented a physical activity programme (PAP) that we carried out in students’ free time during the school year 2018–2019. The target group consisted of 79 students with excess weight, aged between 12 and 15 years, selected from an initial sample of 495 students from 5 pre-university education units located in an urban area. That group followed a differentiated PAP for 26 weeks. The impact of the programme highlighted the following points: the average physical activity/week for the entire sample of subjects was 3.67 physical activities, with an allocated time/week ranging from 1 h 30 min to 3 h; in terms of effort intensity, 7.70% of the activities were performed at low intensity, 75.07% at medium intensity and 17.23% at submaximal intensity. At the end of the programme, out of 79 subjects who were overweight/obese at the initial testing, 37 improved their body composition at the final testing, with a healthy BMI. It was also found that there is a negative correlation coefficient (r = −0.23) between the time spent performing physical activities and the BMI of the subjects.
Impact of Donor Human Milk in an Urban NICU Population
Authors: Allana Ahreen , Lo Kahmun , Batool Myra , Hand Ivan
Published: October 2022

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends the use of donor human milk in infants when mother’s own milk is not available. Our objective was to analyze whether the use of donor human milk in preterm, very-low-birth-weight (VLBW, <1500 g) infants affected the rates of necrotizing enterocolitis, duration of parenteral nutrition (PN), growth, culture-positive sepsis, length of hospital stay, and mortality in an urban NICU population with low exclusive breast-feeding rates. A retrospective cohort study was conducted comparing two 2-year epochs of VLBW neonates before and after the introduction of donor breast milk in our neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). With the introduction of donor human milk, there was a significant reduction in the rate of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) (5% vs. 13%; p = 0.04) and less severe NEC as defined by Stage III based on the Modified Bell Staging Criteria (10% to 3%; p = 0.04). In the donor milk era, there was earlier initiation of enteral feeding (2.69 days vs. 3.84; p = 0.006) and a more rapid return to birthweight (9.5 days. 10.9 days; p = 0.006). In this study, a change in practice to the use of donor breast milk in a population with low rates of human milk provision was associated with earlier initiation of enteral feeding, faster return to birth weight, and a reduced incidence of NEC.
Using High-Resolution Climate Models to Identify Climate Change Hotspots in the Middle East: A Case Study of Iran
Authors: Sotoudeheian Saeed , Jalilvand Ehsan , Kermanshah Amirhassan
Published: October 2022

The adverse effects of climate change will impact all regions around the world, especially Middle Eastern countries, which have prioritized economic growth over environmental protection. However, these impacts are not evenly distributed spatially, and some locations, namely climate change hotspots, will suffer more from climate change consequences. In this study, we identified climate change hotspots over Iran—a developing country in the Middle East that is facing dire economic situations—in order to suggest pragmatic solutions for vulnerable regions. We used a statistical index as a representative of the differences in climatic parameters for the RCP8.5 and RCP4.5 forcing pathways between historical data (1975–2005), near-future data (2030–2060) and far-future data (2070–2100). More specifically, we used downscaled high-resolution (0.25°) meteorological data from five GCMs of the CMIP5 database to calculate the statistical metric. Results indicate that for the far-future period and RCP4.5, regions stretching from the northwest to southeast of Iran, namely the Hotspot Belt, are the most vulnerable areas, while, for RCP8.5, almost the whole country is vulnerable to climate change. The highest and lowest differences in temperature for RCP8.5 in 2070–2100 are observed during summer in the northwestern and central parts and during winter in the northern and northeastern parts. Moreover, the maximum increase and decrease in precipitation are identified over the western parts of Iran during fall and winter, respectively. Overall, western provinces (e.g., Lorestan and Kermanshah), which are mostly reliant on rainfed agriculture and other climate-dependent sectors, will face the highest change in climate in the future. As these regions have less adaptive capacity, they should be prioritized through upstream policy change and special budget allocation from the government to increase their resiliency against climate change.
The Use of Artificial Intelligence in Medical Imaging: A Nationwide Pilot Survey of Trainees in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Mirza Ahmad A. , Wazgar Omar M. , Almaghrabi Ammar A. , Ghandour Roaa M. , Alenizi Sarah A. , Mirza Abdulrahim A. , Alraddadi Khalid S. , Al-Adwani Fayzah H. , Alsakkaf Mohammed A. , Aljuaid Sattam M.
Published: October 2022

Artificial intelligence is dramatically transforming medical imaging. In Saudi Arabia, there are a lack of studies assessing the level of artificial intelligence use and reliably determining the perceived impact of artificial intelligence on the radiology workflow and the profession. We assessed the levels of artificial intelligence use among radiology trainees and correlated the perceived impact of artificial intelligence on the workflow and profession with the behavioral intention to use artificial intelligence. This cross-sectional study enrolled radiology trainees from Saudi Arabia, and a 5-part-structured questionnaire was disseminated. The items concerning the perceived impact of artificial intelligence on the radiology workflow conformed to the six-step standard workflow in radiology, which includes ordering and scheduling, protocoling and acquisition, image interpretation, reporting, communication, and billing. We included 98 participants. Few used artificial intelligence in routine practice (7%). The perceived impact of artificial intelligence on the radiology workflow was at a considerable level in all radiology workflow steps (range, 3.64–3.97 out of 5). Behavioral intention to use artificial intelligence was linearly correlated with the perceptions of its impact on the radiology workflow and on the profession (p < 0.001). Artificial intelligence is used at a low level in radiology. The perceived impact of artificial intelligence on radiology workflow and the profession is correlated to an increase in behavioral intention to use artificial intelligence. Thus, increasing awareness about the positive impact of artificial intelligence can improve its adoption.
Expression of Concern: Benesperi, I.S. Cathode Interlayer Engineering for Efficient Organic Solar Cells under Solar Illumination and Light-Emitting Diode Lamp. Coatings 2022, 12, 816
Authors:   Coatings Editorial Office
Published: October 2022

The Coatings Editorial Office is issuing this Expression of Concern to alert readers to concerns regarding the authorship of [...]
Development of the Zn-ZnO(Nw)@CuMnO2 Heterojunction by Low Temperature Zn Foil Oxidation for Gas Sensor Fabrication
Authors: Nicolaescu Mircea , Bandas Cornelia , Orha Corina , Purcar Violeta , Lazau Carmen
Published: October 2022

In this study, the Zn-ZnO(Nw)@CuMnO2 heterostructure was successfully achieved by deposition of a bidimensional CuMnO2 film on the ZnO nanowires (NWs) layer, by the spin coating method. The novelty of this research is related to the growth of ZnO NWs by thermal oxidation at low temperatures, below the melting point of the Zn foil in a controlled atmosphere consisting of a mixed flow gas, Ar and O2. The structural and morphological properties of the heterostructures were assessed by XRD, UV-Vis, and SEM techniques. The as-obtained gas sensors based on Zn-ZnO(Nw)@CuMnO2 heterostructures were tested to detect 400 ppm. CO2 concentration at variable testing temperatures inside the testing chamber. The maximum sensibility value of 85.5% was obtained at the lowest operating temperature of 150 °C for the ZnONw5@CMO sensor, and when the temperature was increasing to 200 °C the sensibility response of 95.4% was recorded for the ZnONw7@CMO sensor. Current-voltage and current-time measurements were performed under different conditions to assess the heterojunction behavior and sensibility of the gas sensor.
Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Ni-Based Alloy Composite Coating on Cr12MoV by Laser Cladding
Authors: Gao Yali , Tong Yan , Guohui Li , Lu Pengyong , Zhang Dongdong
Published: October 2022

Cr12MoV has been widely used in the manufacture of stamping and drawing dies. In the present study, an attempt was made to improve the mechanical properties of Cr12MoV by laser cladding Ni60 alloy reinforced by WC. X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), a microhardness tester, and a friction and wear test prototype were used to analyze the macroscopic morphology, microstructure, and mechanical properties of the coating. The results showed that the coating mainly was composed of Cr-Fe-Ni, γ-(Fe, Ni), Cr23C6, Cr7C3, and W2C phases. The cladding layer presented the dendritic eutectic structure enriched Cr, Fe, and Ni. Zigzag-shaped dendrites with thicknesses of 50~80 μm of the bonding zone ensured the strong metallurgical bonding. Due to solid solution strengthening, dispersion hardening, and grain refinement, the hardness of the coating reached 745 HV, which was 3.5 times that of the substrate. The wear volume of the coating was 14 × 10−3 mm3, which was 48% lower than that of the substrate (27 × 10−3 mm3). The coating had the abrasive wear; however, the substrate had the adhesive wear besides the abrasive wear.
Thermodynamic Functions of a Metal Exposed to High Energy Densities in Compressed and Expanded States
Authors: Volkov Nikolay B. , Lipchak Alexander I.
Published: October 2022

The development of a wide-range phenomenological model of metal with a small number of adjustable parameters for studying the behavior of metals in expanded and compressed states under the exposition of high energy density fluxes is the objective of the paper present. Both the reference data, methods of the quantum-statistical model of the atom, the density functional theory, and the requirement to the expanded and compressed states description of metal should be consistent on their boundary were used in the model. The expressions for thermodynamic functions and the critical parameters of expanded iron were obtained within the framework of the soft sphere model. The Grüneisen parameters calculated for the expanded and compressed states of the metal appear to be in good agreement with each other was shown. A calculation technique of the ion component average charge of the metal in expanded and compressed states is proposed. The experimentally defined volume range of V/V0 = 3–4 in which the character of iron conductivity changes from metallic to non-metallic includes the obtained in frameworks of our approach value of the critical volume: V/V0 = 3.802 was established. The behavior of the average charge of the ion component is discussed. The contribution of the thermal electrons to the thermodynamic functions is evaluated.
Optimized Solid-State Synthesis of Sr2Fe1.5Mo0.5O6−δ Perovskite: Implications for Efficient Synthesis of Mo-Containing SOFC Electrodes
Authors: Dong Hui , Wang Meiyu , Liu Yuke , Han Zongying
Published: October 2022

Sr2Fe1.5Mo0.5O6−δ (SFMO) perovskite has been considered as a promising anode candidate for solid oxide fuel cells. However, the significant inconsistency in the conductivity properties of SFMO perovskite has been reported in the literature through various synthesis procedures, highlighting the necessity of a standard and unified synthesis process. In this work, we propose an optimized solid-state synthesis process of SFMO perovskite based on the thermal properties of the precursors. Our TG analysis indicates that the evaporation of MoO3 during sintering over 752 °C may affect the synthesis of the expected SFMO perovskite. The presence of Fe2O3 has a trap effect on MoO3, based on the TG analysis of the binary mixture. A cubically structured SFMO perovskite without a secondary phase is obtained from the as-proposed stepwise sintering program while an impurity phase of SrMoO4 is observed when adopting a direct sintering program. The as-synthesized SFMO perovskite exhibits high stability in a reducing atmosphere, which is attributed to the self-adjustment of the overall valence states of molybdenum ions and iron ions. Many pure cubically structured perovskites have been successfully synthesized using the as-proposed solid-state synthesis process, suggesting its universality for the synthesis of other Mo-containing SOFC perovskite electrodes.
Diversity and Life-Cycle Analysis of Pacific Ocean Zooplankton by Videomicroscopy and DNA Barcoding: Gastropods
Authors: Bryant Peter J. , Arehart Timothy
Published: October 2022

The life cycles and biodiversity of Pacific coast gastropods were analyzed by videomicroscopy and DNA barcoding of individuals collected from tide pools and in plankton nets from a variety of shore stations. In many species (Families Calyptraeidae, Cerithiopsidae, Strombidae, Vermetidae, Columbellidae, Nassariidae, Olivellidae, Hermaeidae, Onchidorididae, Gastropteridae, Haminoeidae), the free-swimming veligers were recovered from plankton collections; in Roperia poulsoni (family Muricidae) veligers were usually recovered from egg sacs where they had been retained although some escapees were found in plankton collections; in Pteropurpura festiva (family Muricidae) free-living veligers were also found; and in Atlanta californiensis (family Atlantidae) both veligers and adults were obtained from plankton collections making this a holoplanktonic species. The results confirm that DNA barcoding based on COI gene sequencing is a useful strategy to match life-cycle stages within species as well as to identify species and to document the level of biodiversity within the gastropods.
Branch Growth, Leaf Canopies and Photosynthetic Responses of Zizyphus jujube cv. “Huizao” to Nutrient Addition in the Arid Areas of Northwest China
Authors: Bao Jianping , Li Jiaxin , Wang Guanli , Tang Zhihui , Zhi Jinhu
Published: October 2022

Jujube is one of the main tree species found in the arid areas of Xinjiang, China. However, the nutritional requirements of central leader jujube trees are not understood. Our aim was to explore the effects of different fertilization gradients on the growth, development, and canopy formation of jujube trees to provide a basis for efficient cultivation. We measured and compared various suitable indices of jujube trees under 16 different fertilization treatments, and we confirmed the treatments suitable for cultivation by correlation and principal component analyses. The jujube tree growth indices under different fertilization treatments significantly differed (p < 0.05). The application of nitrogen fertilizer promoted the growth of branches and leaves. The soil and plant analyzer development value, light, and other traits significantly differed (p < 0.05). The leaf area index and direct transmittance coefficient significantly differed (p < 0.05). Compared with single-fertilizer application, mixed-fertilizer application significantly increased the leaf area index. Correlation analysis showed that the net photosynthetic rate of jujube leaves significantly correlated with the stomatal conductance, transpiration rate, and leaf SPAD content (p < 0.01). We obtained three principal components with a cumulative variance contribution rate of 82.192%. The final ranking showed that the mixed treatment (N 460.77 g/tree, P2O5 460.77 g/tree, and K2O 588.23 g/tree) performed better. To ensure branch and leaf growth, this treatment promoted photosynthesis, enabling the growth and development of fruit trees.
Assessing the Accuracy of Google Trends for Predicting Presidential Elections: The Case of Chile, 2006–2021
Authors: Vergara-Perucich Francisco
Published: October 2022

This article presents the results of reviewing the predictive capacity of Google Trends for national elections in Chile. The electoral results of the elections between Michelle Bachelet and Sebastián Piñera in 2006, Sebastián Piñera and Eduardo Frei in 2010, Michelle Bachelet and Evelyn Matthei in 2013, Sebastián Piñera and Alejandro Guillier in 2017, and Gabriel Boric and José Antonio Kast in 2021 were reviewed. The time series analyzed were organized on the basis of relative searches between the candidacies, assisted by R software, mainly with the gtrendsR and forecast libraries. With the series constructed, forecasts were made using the Auto Regressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) technique to check the weight of one presidential option over the other. The ARIMA analyses were performed on 3 ways of organizing the data: the linear series, the series transformed by moving average, and the series transformed by Hodrick–Prescott. The results indicate that the method offers the optimal predictive ability.
A Simplified Sanger Sequencing Method for Detection of Relevant SARS-CoV-2 Variants
Authors: Deminco Felice , Vaz Sara N. , Santana Daniele S. , Pedroso Celia , Tadeu Jean , Stoecker Andreas , Vieira Sueli M. , Netto Eduardo , Brites Carlos
Published: October 2022

Molecular surveillance of the new coronavirus through new genomic sequencing technologies revealed the circulation of important variants of SARS-CoV-2. Sanger sequencing has been useful in identifying important variants of SARS-CoV-2 without the need for whole-genome sequencing. A sequencing protocol was constructed to cover a region of 1000 base pairs, from a 1120 bp product generated after a two-step RT-PCR assay in samples positive for SARS-CoV-2. Consensus sequence construction and mutation identification were performed. Of all 103 samples sequenced, 69 contained relevant variants represented by 20 BA.1, 13 delta, 22 gamma, and 14 zeta, identified between June 2020 and February 2022. All sequences found were aligned with representative sequences of the variants. Using the Sanger sequencing methodology, we were able to develop a more accessible protocol to assist viral surveillance with a more accessible platform.
Ground Risk Assessment for Unmanned Aircraft Systems Based on Dynamic Model
Authors: Jiao Qingyu , Liu Yansi , Zheng Zhigang , Sun Linshi , Bai Yiqin , Zhang Zhengjuan , Sun Longni , Ren Gaosheng , Zhou Guangyu , Chen Xinfeng , Yan Yan
Published: October 2022

Ground risk, as one of the key parameters for assessing risk before an operation, plays an important role in the safety management of unmanned aircraft systems. However, how to correctly identify ground risk and to predict risk accurately remains challenging due to uncertainty in relevant parameters (people density, ground impact, etc.). Therefore, we propose a dynamic model based on a deep learning approach to assess the ground risk. First, the parameters that affect ground risk (people density, ground impact, sheltered, etc.) are defined and analyzed. Second, a kinetic-theory-based model is applied to assess the extent of ground impact. Third, a joint convolutional neural network–deep neural network model (C-Snet model) is built to predict the density of people on the ground and to calculate the shelter factor for different degrees of ground impact. Last, a dynamic model combining a deep learning and a kinetic model is established to predict ground risk. We performed simulations to validate the effectiveness and efficiency of the model. The results indicate that ground risk has spatial-temporal characteristics and that our model can predict risk accurately by capturing these characteristics.
Experienced, Enthusiastic and Cautious: Pedagogy Profiles in Emergency and Post-Emergency
Authors: Dorfsman Marcelo , Horenczyk Gabriel
Published: October 2022

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has generated one of the most significant global disruptions to education systems in generations. Purpose: This study aims to examine the link between the profiles of teachers identified over the course of the period of Emergency Remote Teaching (ERT) as “experienced”, “enthusiastic”, or “cautious”, and their willingness to incorporate new pedagogical practices that adapt to the new virtual teaching environments. Methodology: This is a qualitative study in which a thematic–discursive analysis of in-depth interviews with university teachers is conducted in real time. Conclusions: The study found significant differences between the teachers as categorized in terms of responses and practices. These differences are expressed in three main spheres: the capacity of perception (insight), the available repertoire of practices, and the teaching gaze. The Teacher Profiles model in ERT has been updated accordingly. Implications: The adjusted Technology Acceptance model along with the recommendations derived from this study may contribute to the training and professional development of university teachers in the field of digital literacy.