bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of a hybrid pipeline for automated segmentation of solid lesions based on mathematical algorithms and deep learning
Authors: Burrows Liam , Chen Ke , Guo Weihong , Hossack Martin , McWilliams Richard G. , Torella Francesco
Published: August 2022

We evaluate the accuracy of an original hybrid segmentation pipeline, combining variational and deep learning methods, in the segmentation of CT scans of stented aortic aneurysms, abdominal organs and brain lesions. The hybrid pipeline is trained on 50 aortic CT scans and tested on 10. Additionally, we trained and tested the hybrid pipeline on publicly available datasets of CT scans of abdominal organs and MR scans of brain tumours. We tested the accuracy of the hybrid pipeline against a gold standard (manual segmentation) and compared its performance to that of a standard automated segmentation method with commonly used metrics, including the DICE and JACCARD and volumetric similarity (VS) coefficients, and the Hausdorff Distance (HD). Results. The hybrid pipeline produced very accurate segmentations of the aorta, with mean DICE, JACCARD and VS coefficients of: 0.909, 0.837 and 0.972 in thrombus segmentation and 0.937, 0.884 and 0.970 for stent and lumen segmentation. It consistently outperformed the standard automated method. Similar results were observed when the hybrid pipeline was trained and tested on publicly available datasets, with mean DICE scores of: 0.832 on brain tumour segmentation, and 0.894/0.841/0.853/0.847/0.941 on left kidney/right kidney/spleen/aorta/liver organ segmentation.
Molecular neurobiological markers in the onset of sodium appetite
Authors: Porcari Cintia Y. , Cambiasso María J. , Mecawi André S. , Caeiro Ximena E. , Antunes-Rodrigues José , Vivas Laura M. , Godino Andrea
Published: August 2022

Sodium appetite is a motivational state involving homeostatic behavior, seeking the ingest of salty substances after sodium loss. There is a temporal dissociation between sodium depletion (SD) and the appearance of sodium appetite. However, the responsible mechanisms for this delay remain poorly elucidated. In the present study, we measured the temporal changes at two and 24 h after SD in the gene expression of key elements within excitatory, inhibitory, and sensory areas implicated in the signaling pathways involved in the onset of sodium appetite. In SD rats, we observed that the expression of critical components within the brain control circuit of sodium appetite, including Angiotensin-type-1 receptor (Agtr1a), Oxytocin-(OXT-NP)-neurophysin-I, and serotonergic-(5HT)-type-2c receptor (Htr2c) were modulated by SD, regardless of time. However, we observed reduced phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) at the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) and increased oxytocin receptor (Oxtr) mRNA expression at the anteroventral of the third ventricle area (AV3V), at two hours after SD, when sodium appetite is inapparent. At twenty-four hours after SD, when sodium appetite is released, we observed a reduction in the mRNA expression of the transient receptor potential channel 1gene (Trpv1) and Oxtr in the AV3V and the dorsal raphe nucleus, respectively. The results indicate that SD exerts a coordinated timing effect, promoting the appearance of sodium appetite through changes in MAPK activity and lower Trpv1 channel and Oxtr expression that trigger sodium consumption to reestablish the hydroelectrolytic homeostasis.
Analysis and design of ultra-wideband PRGW hybrid coupler using PEC/PMC waveguide model
Authors: Mousavirazi Zahra , Ali Mohamed Mamdouh M. , Gheisanab Hassan Naseri , Denidni Tayeb A.
Published: August 2022

In this paper, a new method to facilitate the design of Printed Ridge Gap Waveguide (PRGW) structures is introduced. One of the main difficulties in designing such structures is related to their simulation process which is really time and energy-consuming. Therefore, a suitable boundary condition is considered to bring about the primary structure without involving the bed of nails or mushroom unit cells. Using this technique, a wideband PRGW 3 dB hybrid double-box coupler is designed to serve in mm-wave frequencies at a center frequency of 30 GHz, which can be deployed for the next generation of mobile communication. The designed coupler provides a wide matching and isolation bandwidth with low output amplitude imbalance, which is unique in comparison with current couplers. The prototype of the proposed coupler is fabricated and measured where the simulation and measurement results show a good agreement indicating the strength of the proposed method in PRGW structure design as well. The measured results show the couplers achieve better than 10-dB return loss and isolation over the frequency range from 25 to 40 GHz (46% BW) with the power-split unbalance and phase error within ± 1 dB and ± 5°, respectively. In addition, square mushrooms are chosen here to satisfy the high impedance surface. Not only do they bring about larger stop bandwidth, but also their configuration facilitates the arrangement of them around the coupler. The proposed design has superb characteristics such as low profile, low loss, and easy integration with microwave circuits and systems that can be suitable for designing mm-wave beamforming networks.
Impact of mirabegron versus solifenacin on autonomic function and arterial stiffness in female overactive bladder syndrome: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Hsiao Sheng-Mou , Tu Fung-Chao , Su Ta-Chen , Wu Pei-Chi , Lin Ho-Hsiung
Published: August 2022

The study aims to elucidate the impact of mirabegron versus solifenacin on autonomic function and peripheral arterial conditions in women with overactive bladder syndrome (OAB). All consecutive women with OAB were randomized to receive 12 weeks of mirabegron 25 mg or solifenacin 5 mg once per day. Heart rate variability, cardio-ankle vascular index, ankle-brachial pressure index, blood pressure, and heart rate were compared between the two groups. There were 87 women (mirabegron, n = 43; and solifenacin, n = 44) who completed 12-week treatment and underwent heart rate variability examination. Systolic blood pressure (median: − 4.5 to − 5.5 mmHg) and diastolic blood pressure (median: − 0.5 to − 3.5 mmHg) decreased after solifenacin treatment, and heart rate (median: + 2 bpm) increased after mirabegron treatment, despite of no between-group difference. In addition, posttreatment heart rate variability, cardio-ankle vascular index, and ankle-brachial pressure index did not differ compared with baseline; and there were no between-group differences. In conclusion, solifenacin might decrease blood pressure, and mirabegron might increase heart rate. Nonetheless, there were no significant impacts of 12-week mirabegron versus solifenacin treatment on autonomic function and arterial stiffness.
Reconfigurable electro-optical logic gates using a 2-layer multilayer perceptron
Authors: Lin Chu-En , Lu Yueh-Heng , Zhou Meng-Ting , Chen Chii-Chang
Published: August 2022

In this work, we aim to use the optical amplifiers, directional couplers and phase modulators to build the electro-optical gates. Thanks to the 2-layer-multilayer-perceptron structure, the inversion of matrix is performed to obtain the coupling ratio of the directional couplers and the phase delay of the phase modulators. The electro-optical OR, AND, XOR, NAND, NOR and XNOR gates are demonstrated. Moreover, we not only study the results under the ideal condition of device, but also discuss the imperfect situation with 1% error of fabrication or operation to study the tolerance of this system. Through our simulation results, the visibility of the gate output can be higher than 0.83. The gates can be fabricated in a silicon-based chip to develop the integrated optics computing system.
Effects of extracellular vesicles derived from oral bacteria on osteoclast differentiation and activation
Authors: Kim Hyun Young , Song Min-Kyoung , Lim Younggap , Jang Ji Sun , An Sun-Jin , Kim Hong-Hee , Choi Bong-Kyu
Published: August 2022

Dysbiosis of the oral microbiota plays an important role in the progression of periodontitis, which is characterized by chronic inflammation and alveolar bone loss, and associated with systemic diseases. Bacterial extracellular vesicles (EVs) contain various bioactive molecules and show diverse effects on host environments depending on the bacterial species. Recently, we reported that EVs derived from Filifactor alocis, a Gram-positive periodontal pathogen, had osteoclastogenic activity. In the present study, we analysed the osteoclastogenic potency and immunostimulatory activity of EVs derived from the Gram-negative periodontal pathogens Porphyromonas gingivalis and Tannerella forsythia, the oral commensal bacterium Streptococcus oralis, and the gut probiotic strain Lactobacillus reuteri. Bacterial EVs were purified by density gradient ultracentrifugation using OptiPrep (iodixanol) reagent. EVs from P. gingivalis, T. forsythia, and S. oralis increased osteoclast differentiation and osteoclstogenic cytokine expression in osteoclast precursors, whereas EVs from L. reuteri did not. EVs from P. gingivalis, T. forsythia, and S. oralis preferentially activated Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) rather than TLR4 or TLR9, and induced osteoclastogenesis mainly through TLR2. The osteoclastogenic effects of EVs from P. gingivalis and T. forsythia were reduced by both lipoprotein lipase and polymyxin B, an inhibitor of lipopolysaccharide (LPS), while the osteoclastogenic effects of EVs from S. oralis were reduced by lipoprotein lipase alone. These results demonstrate that EVs from periodontal pathogens and oral commensal have osteoclastogenic activity through TLR2 activation by lipoproteins and/or LPS.
Moral parochialism and causal appraisal of transgressive harm in Seoul and Los Angeles
Authors: Holbrook Colin , Yoon Leehyun , Fessler Daniel M. T. , Moser Cody , Delgado Shairy Jimenez , Kim Hackjin
Published: August 2022

The evolutionary fitness payoffs of moral condemnation are greatest within an individual’s immediate social milieu. Accordingly, insofar as human moral intuitions have been shaped by adaptive design, we can expect transgressive harms to be perceived as more wrong when transpiring in the here and now than when occurring at a distance, or with the approval of local authority figures. Thismoral parochialismhypothesis has been supported by research conducted in diverse societies, but has yet to be tested in an East Asian society, despite prior research indicating that East Asians appraise transgressive acts as being caused by situational and contextual factors to a greater extent than do Westerners, who tend to emphasize dispositional factors (i.e., the transgressor’s personal nature). Here, in a quasi-experiment using field samples recruited in Seoul and Los Angeles, we tested (i) the moral parochialism hypothesis regarding the perceived wrongness of transgressions, as well as (ii) the extent to which these wrongness judgments might be influenced by cross-cultural differences in causal appraisals. Despite notably large differences across the two societies in situational versus dispositional appraisals of the causes of the transgressions, replicating previous findings elsewhere, in both societies we found that transgressions were deemed less wrong when occurring at spatial or temporal remove or with the consent of authorities. These findings add to the understanding of morality as universally focused on local affairs, notwithstanding cultural variation in perceptions of the situational versus dispositional causes of (im)moral acts.
Pre-diagnostic DNA methylation in blood leucocytes in cutaneous melanoma; a nested case–control study within the Norwegian Women and Cancer cohort
Authors: Page Christian M. , Nøst Therese H. , Djordjilović Vera , Thoresen Magne , Frigessi Arnoldo , Sandanger Torkjel M. , Veierød Marit B.
Published: August 2022

The prognosis of cutaneous melanoma depends on early detection, and good biomarkers for melanoma risk may provide a valuable tool to detect melanoma development at a pre-clinical stage. By studying the epigenetic profile in pre-diagnostic blood samples of melanoma cases and cancer free controls, we aimed to identify DNA methylation sites conferring melanoma risk. DNA methylation was measured at 775,528 CpG sites using the Illumina EPIC array in whole blood in incident melanoma cases (n = 183) and matched cancer-free controls (n = 183) in the Norwegian Women and Cancer cohort. Phenotypic information and ultraviolet radiation exposure were obtained from questionnaires. Epigenome wide association (EWAS) was analyzed in future melanoma cases and controls with conditional logistic regression, with correction for multiple testing using the false discovery rate (FDR). We extended the analysis by including a public data set on melanoma (GSE120878), and combining these different data sets using a version of covariate modulated FDR (AdaPT). The analysis on future melanoma cases and controls did not identify any genome wide significant CpG sites (0.85 ≤ padj ≤ 0.99). In the restricted AdaPT analysis, 7 CpG sites were suggestive at the FDR level of 0.15. These CpG sites may potentially be used as pre-diagnostic biomarkers of melanoma risk.
Hexavalent chromium elimination from wastewater by integrated micro-electrolysis composites synthesized from red mud and rice straw via a facile one-pot method
Authors: Wang Huabin , Cui Ting , Chen Dingxiang , Luo Qiong , Xu Jiwei , Sun Rong , Zi Wenhua , Xu Rui , Liu Ying , Zhang Yong
Published: August 2022

The widely spread chromium (Cr) contamination is rising environmental concerns, while the reutilization of agro-industrial by-products are also urgently demanded due to their potential risks. In this study, we prepared the integrated micro-electrolysis composites (IMC) through a facile one-pot method with red mud and rice straw. The effects of components relatively mass ratios as well as pyrolysis temperature were analyzed. The XRD, XPS, SEM, FTIR, and various techniques proved the IMC was successfully synthesized, which was also used to analyze the reaction mechanisms. In this study, the dosage of IMC, pH, adsorption time, and temperature of adsorption processes were explored, in the adsorption experiment of Cr(VI), dosage of IMC was 2 g/L (pH 6, 25 °C, and 200 rpm) for isothermal, while the concentration and contact time were also varied. According to the batch experiments, IMC exhibited acceptable removal capacity (190.6 mg/g) on Cr(VI) and the efficiency reached 97.74%. The removal mechanisms of adsorbed Cr(VI) were mainly elaborated as chemical reduction, complexation, co-precipitation, and physical adherence. All these results shed light on the facile preparation and agro-industrial by-products recycled as engineering materials for the heavy metals decontamination in wastewater.
Secondhand smoke exposure among never-smoking adolescents in Wuhan, China
Authors: Mei Xin , Chen Gong , Zhong Qing , Li Yi-Lin , Li Jun-Lin
Published: August 2022

Without smoke-free legislation in Wuhan, China, we investigated secondhand smoke (SHS) exposure at home, school, and public places for never-smoking school-going adolescents in 2019. A cross-sectional study was carried out within the Global Youth Tobacco Survey (GYTS) framework. Weighted univariate, bivariate and multivariable analyses were conducted. The prevalence of SHS exposure among never-smoking adolescents at home, school and public places was 25.7%, 31.9% and 48.9%, respectively. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that parents smoking, peers smoking and observing teachers smoking in school were all significantly related to a higher probability of SHS exposure at home, school, and public places. Never-smoking adolescents who had smoking parents had 14 times (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 14.00; 95% confidence interval [CI], 11.37–17.24) higher odds of SHS exposure at home; Never-smoking adolescents who observed teachers smoking in school had about 10 (aOR = 9.76; 95% CI = 7.13–13.36) and four times (aOR = 3.55; 95% CI = 2.77–4.55) higher odds of SHS exposure in school and public places, respectively. Adopting comprehensive smoke-free legislation in public places and smoke-free home rules and implementing and supervising smoke-free school policies may further reduce SHS exposure among adolescents.
Multi-walled carbon nanotubes wrapped with polyvinylpyrrolidone can control the leaf yellowing of Alstroemeria cut flowers
Authors: Mousavi Seyedeh Farzaneh , Roein Zeynab , Hekmatara Seyedeh Hoda
Published: August 2022

The rapid yellowing of the leaves on cut flowers with leafy stems severely limits their vase life and commercial value. In this study, the effect of a composite of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) on the longevity of cut Alstroemeria flowers (Alstroemeria hybrida) was investigated to obtain a solution to this problem. A range of MWCNTs/PVP composite concentrations (0, 3, 6, and 9 mg L−1) was applied in a vase solution (for 24 h) as pulse treatments. Our findings indicate that the composite of MWCNTs and PVP exhibits excellent dispersibility in a vase solution. The results demonstrate that a 3 mg L−1 MWCNTs/PVP concentration was the most effective, extending the vase life of cut Alstroemeria flowers by up to 27 days. Pulsing with MWCNTs/PVP delayed the onset of floret abscission and leaf yellowing by 5 and 18 days, respectively. Additionally, when MWCNTs/PVP solution was applied to cut stems, water uptake remained consistently greater than that of the control. Additionally, MWCNTs/PVP increased the total chlorophyll content, soluble protein content, and POX enzyme activity of leaves while decreasing the malondialdehyde (MDA) content. The results indicate that this composite exhibited antimicrobial activity against gram-positive and -negative bacteria, particularly at a concentration of 3 mg L−1. This study demonstrated that adding MWCNTs/PVP to a vase solution of Alstroemeria cut flowers increased their longevity with minimal leaf yellowing symptoms compared to untreated cut stems. As a result, this nanocomposite can be used safely and effectively in vase solutions and in combination with other preservatives.
A cutback in Imiquimod cutaneous toxicity; comparative cutaneous toxicity analysis of Imiquimod nanotransethosomal gel with 5% marketed cream on the BALB/c mice
Authors: Jamshaid Humzah , Din Fakhar ud , Malik Maimoona , Mukhtiar Muhammad , Choi Han Gon , Ur-Rehman Tofeeq , Khan Gul Majid
Published: August 2022

Herein, Imiquimod (IMQ) was incorporated in nanotransethosomes (nTES) to develop the IMQ-nTES nano-drug delivery system. IMQ-nTES was optimized using 23 factorial design. The optimized formulation was expressed with a particle size of 192.4 ± 1.60 nm, Poly-dispersibility of 0.115 ± 0.008, and IMQ percent entrapment efficiency of 91.05 ± 3.22%. Smooth and round morphology of IMQ-nTES vesicles was confirmed by TEM micrographs. Moreover, FTIR results have shown drug-excipient compatibility. The IMQ-nTES was laden inside the low molecular weight chitosan gel, which exhibited easy application, spreadability and no irritation to the applied skin. The release pattern has clearly exhibited improved dissolution properties of IMQ with the provision of the sustain release pattern. Higher IMQ content was deposited in deeper epidermis and dermis with IMQ-nTES gel, in contrast to ALDARA. In vivo, comparative toxicity study on BALB/c mice has shown significantly reduced (p < 0.001) psoriatic area severity index (PASI) score and less increment in ear thickness. Epidermal hyperplasia was an obvious finding with ALDARA which was, providentially, minimal in IMQ-nTES gel-treated skin. FTIR analysis of skin tissue has shown an enhancement of lipid and protein content in the ALDARA group, however, in the IMQ-nTES group no such change was observed. With ALDARA application, CD4+ T-cells and constitutive NF-κβ expression were significantly elevated, in comparison to the IMQ-nTES gel treated group. Moreover, the adequate expression of IFN-γ and cytotoxic CD8+ T-cells were suggesting the preserved IMQ efficacy with IMQ-nTES gel. Quantification of cutaneous as well as systemic inflammatory markers has also suggested the reduced psoriatic potential of IMQ-nTES gel. In essence, IMQ-nTES gel can be a suitable alternative to ALDARA owing to its better safety profile.
Reclassifying tumour cell cycle activity in terms of its tissue of origin
Authors: Lundberg Arian , Yi Joan Jong Jing , Lindström Linda S. , Tobin Nicholas P.
Published: August 2022

Genomic alterations resulting in loss of control over the cell cycle is a fundamental hallmark of human malignancies. Whilst pan-cancer studies have broadly assessed tumour genomics and their impact on oncogenic pathways, analyses taking the baseline signalling levels in normal tissue into account are lacking. To this end, we aimed to reclassify the cell cycle activity of tumours in terms of their tissue of origin and determine if any common DNA mutations, chromosome arm-level changes or signalling pathways contribute to an increase in baseline corrected cell cycle activity. Combining normal tissue and pan-cancer data from over 13,000 samples we demonstrate that tumours of gynaecological origin show the highest levels of corrected cell cycle activity, partially owing to hormonal signalling and gene expression changes. We also show that normal and tumour tissues can be separated into groups (quadrants) of low/high cell cycle activity and propose the hypothesis of an upper limit on these activity levels in tumours.
Computational study of transition metal dichalcogenide cold source MOSFETs with sub-60 mV per decade and negative differential resistance effect
Authors: Yin Yiheng , Zhang Zhaofu , Shao Chen , Robertson John , Guo Yuzheng
Published: August 2022

To extend the Moore’s law in 5 nm node, a large number of two dimensional (2D) materials and devices have been researched, among which the ‘cold’ metals 2H MS2(M = Nb, Ta) with unique band structures are expected to achieve the sub-60 mVdec−1subthreshold swing (SS). We explored the electronic properties and ballistic quantum transport performance of ‘cold’ metals and the corresponding MOSFETs with idealized structures. The studied ‘cold’ metal field-effect transistors (CM-FETs) based on the ‘cold’ metals are capable to fulfill the high-performance (HP) and low-dissipation (LP) goals simultaneously, as required by the International Technology Roadmap for Semiconductors (ITRS). Moreover, gaps of ‘cold’ metals CM-FETs also demonstrate negative differential resistance (NDR) property, allowing us to further extend the use of CM-FETs. Owing to the wide transmission path in the broken gap structure of NbS2/MoS2heterojunction, the 4110 μAμm−1peak current, several orders of magnitude higher than the typical tunneling diode, is achieved by NbS2/MoS2CM-FET. The largest peak-valley ratio (PVR) 1.1×106is obtained by TaS2/MoS2CM-FET withVGS = −1 V at room temperature. Our results claim that the superior on-state current, SS, cut-off frequency and NDR effect can be obtained by CM-FETs simultaneously. The study of CM-FETs provides a practicable solution for state-of-the-art logic device in sub 5 nm node for both more Moore roadmap and more than Moore roadmap applications.
Plant hairy roots for the production of extracellular vesicles with antitumor bioactivity
Authors: Boccia Eleonora , Alfieri Mariaevelina , Belvedere Raffaella , Santoro Valentina , Colella Marianna , Del Gaudio Pasquale , Moros Maria , Dal Piaz Fabrizio , Petrella Antonello , Leone Antonietta , Ambrosone Alfredo
Published: August 2022

Plant extracellular vesicles (EVs) concentrate and deliver different types of bioactive molecules in human cells and are excellent candidates for a next-generation drug delivery system. However, the lack of standard protocols for plant EV production and the natural variations of their biomolecular cargo pose serious limitation to their use as therapeutics. To overcome these issues, we set up a versatile and standardized procedure to purify plant EVs from hairy root (HR) cultures, a versatile biotechnological system, already successfully employed as source of bioactive molecules with pharmaceutical and nutraceutical relevance. Herewith, we report that HR of Salvia dominica represent an excellent platform for the production of plant EVs. In particular, EVs derived from S. dominica HRs are small round-shaped vesicles carrying typical EV-associated proteins such as cytoskeletal components, chaperon proteins and integral membrane proteins including the tetraspanin TET-7. Interestingly, the HR-derived EVs showed selective and strong pro-apoptotic activity in pancreatic and mammary cancer cells. These results reveal that plant hairy roots may be considered a new promising tool in plant biotechnology for the production of extracellular vesicles for human health.
Pan-cancer analysis of mRNA stability for decoding tumour post-transcriptional programs
Authors: Perron Gabrielle , Jandaghi Pouria , Moslemi Elham , Nishimura Tamiko , Rajaee Maryam , Alkallas Rached , Lu Tianyuan , Riazalhosseini Yasser , Najafabadi Hamed S.
Published: August 2022

Measuring mRNA decay in tumours is a prohibitive challenge, limiting our ability to map the post-transcriptional programs of cancer. Here, using a statistical framework to decouple transcriptional and post-transcriptional effects in RNA-seq data, we uncover the mRNA stability changes that accompany tumour development and progression. Analysis of 7760 samples across 18 cancer types suggests that mRNA stability changes are ~30% as frequent as transcriptional events, highlighting their widespread role in shaping the tumour transcriptome. Dysregulation of programs associated with >80 RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) and microRNAs (miRNAs) drive these changes, including multi-cancer inactivation of RBFOX and miR-29 families. Phenotypic activation or inhibition of RBFOX1 highlights its role in calcium signaling dysregulation, while modulation of miR-29 shows its impact on extracellular matrix organization and stemness genes. Overall, our study underlines the integral role of mRNA stability in shaping the cancer transcriptome, and provides a resource for systematic interrogation of cancer-associated stability pathways.
Exploring the roles of oxygen species in H2 oxidation at β-MnO2 surfaces using operando DRIFTS-MS
Authors: Xu Jiacheng , Zhang Tiantian , Fang Shiyu , Li Jing , Wu Zuliang , Wang Wei , Zhu Jiali , Gao Erhao , Yao Shuiliang
Published: August 2022

Understanding of the roles of oxygen species at reducible metal oxide surfaces under real oxidation conditions is important to improve the performance of these catalysts. The present study addresses this issue by applying a combination of operando diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy with a temperature-programmed reaction cell and mass spectrometry to explore the behaviors of oxygen species during H2 oxidation in a temperature range of 25–400 °C at β-MnO2 surfaces. It is revealed that O2 is dissociated simultaneously into terminal-type oxygen (M2+-O2–) and bridge-type oxygen (M+-O2–-M+) via adsorption at the Mn cation with an oxygen vacancy. O2 adsorption is inhibited if the Mn cation is covered with terminal-adsorbed species (O, OH, or H2O). In a temperature range of 110–150 °C, OH at Mn cation becomes reactive and its reaction product (H2O) can desorb from the Mn cation, resulting in the formation of bare Mn cation for O2 adsorption and dissociation. At a temperature above 150 °C, OH is reactive enough to leave bare Mn cation for O2 adsorption and dissociation. These results suggest that bare metal cations with oxygen vacancies are important to improve the performance of reducible metal oxide catalysts.
Biosourced quinones for high-performance environmentally benign electrochemical capacitors via interface engineering
Authors: Gouda Abdelaziz , Masson Alexandre , Hoseinizadeh Molood , Soavi Francesca , Santato Clara
Published: August 2022

Biosourced and biodegradable organic electrode materials respond to the need for sustainable storage of renewable energy. Here, we report on electrochemical capacitors based on electrodes made up of quinones, such as Sepia melanin and catechin/tannic acid (Ctn/TA), solution-deposited on carbon paper engineered to create high-performance interfaces. Sepia melanin and Ctn/TA on TCP electrodes exhibit a capacitance as high as 1355 mF cm−2 (452 F g−1) and 898 mF cm−2 (300 F g−1), respectively. Sepia melanin and Ctn/TA symmetric electrochemical capacitors operating in aqueous electrolytes exhibit up to 100% capacitance retention and 100% coulombic efficiency over 50,000 and 10,000 cycles at 150 mA cm−2 (10 A g−1), respectively. Maximum power densities as high as 1274 mW cm−2 (46 kW kg−1) and 727 mW cm−2 (26 kW kg−1) with maximum energy densities of 0.56 mWh cm−2 (20 Wh kg−1) and 0.65 mWh cm−2 (23 Wh kg−1) are obtained for Sepia melanin and Ctn/TA.
A poly(arylene ethynylene)-based microfluidic fluorescence sensor array for discrimination of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons
Authors: Ghohestani Elham , Tashkhourian Javad , Sharifi Hoda , Bojanowski N. Maximilian , Seehafer Kai , Smarsly Emanuel , Bunz Uwe H. F. , Hemmateenejad Bahram
Published: August 2022

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were discriminated using a microfluidic paper-based sensor array device.
A low-cost compact blood enzyme analyzer based on optical sensing for point-of-care liver function testing
Authors: Cheng Jie , Yan Jiasheng , Guo Jiuchuan , Guo Jinhong
Published: August 2022

Serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) is the most sensitive indicator of liver function; therefore, in clinical practice, its detection has diagnostic significance.
Effect of sodium chloride adsorption on the surface premelting of ice
Authors: Berrens Margaret L. , Bononi Fernanda C. , Donadio Davide
Published: August 2022

We characterise the structure of the quasi-liquid layer at two low-index ice surfaces in the presence of sodium chloride (Na+/Cl−) ions by molecular dynamics simulations and discuss its effect on crystal growth and surface chemistry on ice.
Targeted regulation of the selectivity of cascade synthesis towards imines/secondary amines by carbon-coated Co-based catalysts
Authors: Huang Songtao , Zhao Zijiang , Wei Zhongzhe , Wang Mingxuan , Chen Yi , Wang Xiaosa , Shao Fangjun , Zhong Xing , Li Xiaonian , Wang Jianguo
Published: August 2022

Carbon-coated catalysts Co/SiO2@CN and PtCo/SiO2@CN realized the directional synthesis of imines and secondary amines under mild conditions, respectively, thanks to the encapsulated structure and the synergistic effect of the active components.
Selective detection of hypochlorous acid in living cervical cancer cells with an organoselenium-based BOPPY probe
Authors: Shelar Divyesh S. , Malankar Gauri S. , M. Manikandan , Patra Malay , Butcher Ray J. , Manjare Sudesh T.
Published: August 2022

The synthesis and crystal structure of the first selenium-containing BOPPY probe. The probe is selective for exogenous and endogenous HOCl detection in HeLa cells with a “turn-on” fluorescence response.
Preparation of Keggin-type monosubstituted polyoxometalate ionic liquid catalysts and their application in catalyzing the coupling reaction of ethylene carbonate and dimethyl succinate to synthesize poly(ethylene succinate)
Authors: Zhao Xiudan , Guo Liying , Xu Tiejun , Zheng Rongrong , Wang Haiyue
Published: August 2022

A new low-carbon and environmentally friendly process method for the catalytic synthesis of biodegradable polyesters catalyzed by using ionic liquid catalysts.
Preparation and characterization of a self-dispersed and reactive TiO2/BiOBr photocatalyst for self-cleaning and ultraviolet resistant cotton fabrics
Authors: Wang Kuang , Tian Jialong , Yu Wenhui , Lin Ling , Qi Zhenming , Wang Chunxia
Published: August 2022

A novel and efficient approach is presented herein to develop self-cleaning and ultraviolet resistant cotton fabrics loaded with a self-dispersed and reactive TiO2/BiOBr photocatalyst.
Design of rotational potential in a phenyltriptycene molecular rotor by exploiting CH/π-interaction between tripticil hydrogen and phenyl
Authors: Inami Hazuki , Inagaki Yusuke , Setaka Wataru
Published: August 2022

Design of the relative energies among three rotamers of a substituted phenyltriptycene by exploiting the CH/π-interaction was achieved.
Tailoring the pore chemistry in porous aromatic frameworks for selective separation of acetylene from ethylene
Authors: Zhou Shuang , Liu Zhaoli , Zhang Panpan , Rong Huazhen , Ma Tingting , Cui Fengchao , Liu Dongtao , Zou Xiaoqin , Zhu Guangshan
Published: August 2022

A family of PAFs with 3D topology was developed through tailoring the pore structures. By anchoring carbene or imidazolium groups in PAF-28, the selectivity for separating acetylene from ethylene was greatly boosted from 1.8 to 15.4.
Large reversible strains in the vicinity of the ferroelectric/antiferroelectric morphotropic phase boundary of a (0.97–x)Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3–0.03BaTiO3–xNaNbO3 ternary system
Authors: Zhang Yi , Fu Jian , Yu Zide , Tian Ao , Zuo Ruzhong
Published: August 2022

The field-induced phase transition and the corresponding strain behavior are investigated systematically in (0.97–x)Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3–0.03BaTiO3–xNaNbO3 ceramics and a low-hysteresis giant strain of 0.44% is obtained in the AFE side of the R3c-P4bm MPB.
Investigating the customer trust in artificial intelligence: The role of anthropomorphism, empathy response, and interaction
Authors: Chi Nguyen Thi Khanh , Hoang Vu Nam
Published: August 2022

Artificial intelligence (AI) applications are observed in different industries including the services, where the impressive changing pace is boosted by the technological advances in AI. The use of AI in the daily work of individuals and in shaping the relationship between firms and customers has resulted in increased efficiency and a higher degree of fascination in interaction. There are, however, customers' fears related to the use of AI. Therefore, understanding how AI affects customer trust is worth investigating. This study focuses on the AI applications and their impact on communication quality and customer trust. The features of AI applications investigated in this study include anthropomorphism, empathy response and interaction. A model was first empirically validated through Confirmatory Factor Analysis and tested using Covariance‐Based Structural Equation Modelling. Data were then collected from a survey of 507 customers of two banks and two big telecommunication firms in Vietnam. Empirical results indicate that anthropomorphism and interaction do not play critical roles in generating customer trust in AI unless they create communication quality with customers. The ability of empathy response makes customers trust in various service situations. AI application seems to be a good solution for service firms to enhance their relationship with customers in difficult circumstances, including a pandemic crisis. This study delivers implications for enhancing AI adoption in the service firms that intend to innovate their future operations.
Three‐dimensional electromagnetic parametric modelling and implementation of miniaturized lumped‐element power divider based on symmetrical configuration
Authors: Wu Tiecheng
Published: August 2022

Three‐dimensional (3D) electromagnetic (EM) parametric modelling and implementation of miniaturized lumped‐element power divider (PD) based on symmetrical configuration is investigated. The system design and schematic diagrams of PDs are first demonstrated; subsequently, the 3D EM field and field‐circuit co‐simulation models of PD utilizing computer simulation technology (CST) and advanced design system (ADS) tools are detailedly presented. Finally, one prototype is fabricated and measured. Simultaneously, the gain of the PD is −3.96 dB @ 100 MHz and the experimental curve is in excellent agreement with the simulation. As a conclusion, the novel design methodology applied in PD has important practical engineering value, which can be also applied in millimetre‐wave (mmW) circuit
Calculated DC resistance‐based pilot protection scheme for bipolar high‐voltage direct current transmission lines
Authors: Yang Yayu , Tai Ningling , Liu Yu , Zheng Xiaodong , Ma Jianjun , Yan Jun , Ye Shu
Published: August 2022

The current differential protection for high‐voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission lines has low reliability due to the distributed capacitive current and time delay. This paper proposes a pilot directional protection, which is based on the calculated DC resistance (CDCR) at both ends of DC lines. The characteristics of superimposed components and CDCR are analysed using the superposition theorem. The magnitude of CDCR is equal to the resistance of the converter for a forward internal fault, while it is equal to the sum of the line's DC resistance and the converter's resistance for a reverse fault. CDCR is a useful characteristic to construct the protection scheme as the resistance of DC line is significantly greater than that of the converter. Detailed simulation tests carried out on PSCAD/EMTDC under different fault conditions show that the proposed scheme is able to identify internal and external faults accurately.
AI‐ and IoT‐based hybrid model for air quality prediction in a smart city with network assistance
Authors: Kataria Aman , Puri Vikram
Published: August 2022

Air pollution is one of the biggest concerns in the world but it has not been paid much attention in developing countries. It is necessary to design models and methods to understand air pollution in developing countries to reduce the rate of pollution. This paper proposes an Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI)‐based hybrid model to predict the Air Quality Index (AQI) with a practical case study of the public data sets. The sensor node is deployed in the city to collect air quality data. Moreover, this sensor node connects to the cloud server for collecting data at the firebase real‐time database through a WiFi/5G network embedded in the raspberry controller. Carbon monoxide (CO) and fine particular matter PM2.5 sensors are integrated within a sensor node to monitor the AQI of the regions. A Kalman fis also applied to remove unwanted noise from the data collected through the sensor node. Models namely Artificial Neural Network (ANN), Support Vector Machine (SVM), k‐nearest neighbour (k‐NN), Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN), Long Short Term Memory (LSTM), CNN‐LSTM, ensemble model, and a proposed model, that is, CNN‐LSTM‐Bayesian optimization algorithm (BOA) model, have been utilised to predict the AQI. The performance evaluation of models is done through statistical parameters, such as mean absolute error (MAE), root mean square error (RMSE), coefficient of determination (R2), and accuracy score on two different public data sets and compared with the baseline models. The performance of the CNN‐LSTM‐BOA model is better than baseline models in terms of above‐mentioned statistical parameters as the accuracy reported is more than 97 %.This study can help predict the Air Quality Index and provide sufficient time to generate warning signals in the location.
Collaborative load shifting effect of power‐to‐gas and gas‐fired unit in integrated power and gas system
Authors: Li Dongsen , Gao Ciwei , Chen Tao , Guo Xiaoxuan , Han Shuai
Published: August 2022

Gas has become the main fuel for electricity production as a result of the significant growth in gas‐fired units (GFU), which can lead to a shortage of supply gas for power generation. Meanwhile, there is a higher chance of power mismatch due to the rising penetration of renewable energy in the power system. Considering that power system and gas natural network are increasingly interdependent under more coupling elements, such as power‐to‐gas (PtG) and GFU, cascading failures will occur more often if demand mismatch is not dealt with efficiently. To explore the potential of PtG and GFU to enhance the flexibility of the integrated power and gas system (IPGS), the collaborative load shifting effect (LSE) of them is researched. Therefore, this article contributes a two‐stage robust energy scheduling model that considers the LSE of PtG and GFU on the electric and gas demand side. Simplifying the dual process in the max–min optimization, this article applies a modified Benders decomposition methodology introducing virtual balance to solve the model. Also, the LSE of PtG and GFU is demonstrated in the form of security region (SR) in the case study. Based on the proposed load uniformity level (LUL) index, the results show that GFU and PtG are mainly involved in the load shifting in the power system, and PtG prefers to work when load shifting level is high. As a result, the equipment of PtG and GFU increases the SR by 40.9% and 14.3%, respectively. Moreover, the impact of the fluctuation of wind power on the IPGS, especially on the natural gas network (NGN), is validated through the reduction of the load shifting range by 5%.
Homoeopathic Treatment of a Case of Mania with Psychotic Features
Authors: Moorthi S. Karunakara , Nitha M.
Published: August 2022

Mania is an abnormal feature of bipolar affective disorder, which can cause emotional, functional and cognitive impairment with a direct impact on the quality of life of the patient. A case reported in the outpatient department of the National Homoeopathy Research Institute in Mental Health with symptoms of violence, hurting her sister and mother, abusiveness, irritability, anger, impulsiveness, gesturing with hands, self-laughing and self-talking, tendency to run away from home, sleeplessness, fear of being poisoned and reduced appetite. The case was diagnosed by the consultant psychiatrist as manic episode with psychotic feature as per the International Classification of Diseases-10 Diagnostic Criteria for Research. At the time of admission, the Young Mania Rating Scale scored 36. Carcinosinum 200 was prescribed, but no relief was obtained. So, Sepia officinalis 200 was selected as the second prescription. The social functioning and quality of life of the patient improved. There is no recurrence of a manic episode in the past 1 year. The outcome report of this case shows that the individualised homoeopathic treatment for mania with psychotic features got full remission without the support of any adjunctive therapy or conventional medication.
The Hemodynamic Performance of the Perceval Sutureless Aortic Valve in a Propensity-Matched Comparison to the Carpentier–Edwards Perimount and Perimount Magna Ease Valves for Aortic Valve Replacement
Authors: Kueri Sami , Berger Tim , Puiu Paul-Cătălin , Alhamami Yasir , Diab Nawras , Czerny Martin , Hochholzer Willibald , Siepe Matthias
Published: August 2022

Objectives The Perceval valve was shown to facilitate minimal-invasive operations and shorten operative times. We aimed to compare the early results of the Perceval valve to those of well-established valves, namely the Carpentier–Edwards Perimount and Perimount Magna Ease valve protheses, in terms of their clinical and hemodynamic performances.

Methods This is a single-center, retrospective, observational cohort study. For every patient operated with a Perceval valve, the last patient before and the next following patient receiving a Perimount valve was included in a control group leading to a 2:1 ratio (Perimount:Perceval). A propensity score matching was used and a subgroup analysis was performed to compare early and late Perceval patients as the sizing technique was changed over time.

Results From November 2013 to November 2017, 423 patients were identified. These included 141 consecutive patients receiving a Perceval valve through a full- or a hemi-sternotomy. In addition, 282 patients receiving a Perimount or a Magna Ease valve were enrolled. After propensity score matching, 127 matched patients were compared. Operating times were shorter and postoperative transvalvular pressure gradients were lower in the Perceval group (15 vs. 17 mmHg, p = 0.002). There was no difference in mortality and stroke rates. The incidence of new pacemaker implantations was higher in the Perceval group (7.1 vs. 18.9%, p = 0.005), mainly due to a very high incidence in the early phase of our Perceval experience prior to a change in the Perceval implantation technique. Subgroup analysis showed significantly better results in the late Perceval group.

Conclusion Surgical outcome was good in both groups. The Perceval valve exhibited lower postoperative gradients, and the need for pacemaker implantation was higher and can be reduced by avoiding oversizing.
Outcome of Repeated Resection of Pulmonary Metastases for Renal Cell Cancer
Authors: Hassan Mohamed , Ehle Benjamin , Le Uyen-Thao , Titze Laurin , Passlick Bernward , Grapatsas Konstantinos
Published: August 2022

Background To date, many studies investigated results and prognostic factors of pulmonary metastasectomy (PM) in renal cell cancer (RCC). However, reports concerning repeated resection for patients with recurrent pulmonary metastases (RPM) are limited. In this study, we analyzed safety, efficacy, and prognostic factors for survival after PM focusing on RPM for RCC.

Patients and Methods Clinical, operative, and follow-up data of patients who underwent PM or RPM for RCC in our institution were retrospectively collected and correlated with each other from January 2005 to December 2019.

Results Altogether 154 oncological pulmonary resections in curative intention as PM or RPM were performed in 82 and 26 patients. Postoperative complications were similar in both groups (n = 22 [26.8%] vs. 4 [15.4%], p = 0.2). Zero mortality was documented up to the 30th postoperative day. RPM was not associated with decreased 5-year-survival compared with PM (66.2 vs. 57,9%, p = 0.5). Patients who underwent RPM for recurrent lung metastases had a better overall survival in comparison with the other treatments including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy, and best supportive care (p = 0.04). In the multivariate analysis, disease-free survival was identified as an independent prognostic factor for survival (hazard ratio: 0.969, 0.941–0.999, p = 0.04).

Conclusion RPM is a safe and feasible procedure. The resection of recurrent lung metastases shows to prolong survival in comparison with the other therapeutic options for selected patients with RCC.
Homoeopathic Add-On Treatment in Schizophrenia—A Case Report
Authors: Moorthi S. Karunakara , Radhika P. , Pertin Susu , Mohan N. D.
Published: August 2022

Introduction Schizophrenia is a chronic disabling disease which requires lifelong treatment. Antipsychotics are the mainstay of treatment as of now, which are very expensive and known to cause many side effects. It would be favourable if alternative treatment options like homeopathy are brought into limelight in the treatment of schizophrenia. Very sparse literature is available evaluating the utility of individualised homoeopathic medicine in the this condition.

Methods A 33-year-old woman presenting with symptoms of schizophrenia and under conventional medication was treated during a period of April 2019 to October 2020. Individualised homoeopathic medicine was prescribed as add-on therapy. Outcomes were assessed using Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale. Side effects of antipsychotics were assessed using Glasgow Antipsychotics Side-effects Scale. Modified Naranjo Criteria was used to assess whether the changes were likely to be associated with the homoeopathic intervention.

Results A beneficial result was obtained from individualised homoeopathic treatment. The antipsychotic medication was stopped within 9 months of treatment.

Conclusion More studies with large sample size are required to provide additional support to this study.