bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Finite Element Model for Vibration Serviceability Evaluation of a Suspended Floor with and without Tuned Mass Dampers
Authors: Wang Zhihao , Song Luyao , Cheng Zhipeng , Yang Hui , Wen Jinlong , Qi Meng
Published: January 2023

This study aims to provide an accurate finite element (FE) modeling method for structural vibration serviceability evaluation of the suspended floor under human-induced excitation. The fundamental dynamic characteristics and human-induced vibration responses of a typical suspended floor were first measured via a series of field tests. Subsequently, the overall and local equivalent FE models of the suspended floor were respectively established, and their applicability was then verified by comparing the predicted dynamic characteristics and responses of the suspended floor with the corresponding field test results. Finally, passive tuned mass dampers (TMDs) were designed for vibration control of the suspended floor using the local equivalent FE model, and the applicability of the local FE model in assessing the vibration serviceability of the suspended floor with TMDs was further confirmed via pedestrian-induced vibration tests. Results demonstrate that the simplified local equivalent FE model proposed in this study can well replace the complicated overall FE model to evaluate the vibration serviceability of the suspended floor with and without TMDs.
Bevacizumab versus Ramucirumab in EGFR-Mutated Metastatic Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer Patients: A Real-World Observational Study
Authors: Cheng Wen-Chien , Shen Yi-Cheng , Chen Chieh-Lung , Liao Wei-Chih , Chen Chia-Hung , Chen Hung-Jen , Tu Chih-Yen , Hsia Te-Chun
Published: January 2023

The combination of bevacizumab or ramucirumab with epidermal growth factor receptor-tyrosine kinase inhibitor (EGFR-TKI) therapy, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy for non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients with EGFR mutations could have survival benefits. However, no study, to date, has been conducted to compare the efficacy and safety of these two antiangiogenic therapies (AATs). Stage IIIB to IV EGFR-mutated NSCLC patients who received first-line EGFR-TKIs between January 2014 and May 2022 were enrolled. These patients were divided into two groups: those receiving bevacizumab and those receiving ramucirumab as a combination therapy in any line of treatment. Ninety-six patients were enrolled in this study’s final analysis. The progression-free survival (PFS) of patients who received front-line AATs combined with EGFR-TKI therapy was longer than that of patients receiving later-line AATs combined with other therapies (19.6 vs. 10.0 months, p < 0.001). No difference in overall survival (OS) was observed between front-line and later-line therapy (non-reach vs. 44.0 months, p = 0.261). Patients who received these two different AATs did not differ in PFS (24.1 vs. 15.7 months, p = 0.454) and OS (48.6 vs. 43.0 months, p = 0.924). In addition, these two AATs showed similar frequencies of the T790M mutation (43.6% vs. 38.2%; p = 0.645). Multivariate Cox regression analysis indicated several AAT cycles as an independent good prognostic factor in OS. The incidence of some adverse events such as bleeding and hepatitis was higher for bevacizumab than for ramucirumab but it was not significant. Front-line AAT and EGFR-TKI combination therapy improved the PFS of stage IV EGFR-mutated NSCLC patients. The effectiveness and safety of the two AATs were similar.
StressMatic: A Novel Automated System to Induce Depressive- and Anxiety-like Phenotype in Rats
Authors: Martins-Macedo Joana , Mateus-Pinheiro António , Alves Cátia , Veloso Fernando , Gomes Eduardo D. , Ribeiro Inês , Correia Joana S. , Silveira-Rosa Tiago , Alves Nuno D. , Rodrigues Ana J. , Bessa João M. , Sousa Nuno , Oliveira João F. , Patrício Patrícia , Pinto Luísa
Published: January 2023

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a multidimensional psychiatric disorder that is estimated to affect around 350 million people worldwide. Generating valid and effective animal models of depression is critical and has been challenging for neuroscience researchers. For preclinical studies, models based on stress exposure, such as unpredictable chronic mild stress (uCMS), are amongst the most reliable and used, despite presenting concerns related to the standardization of protocols and time consumption for operators. To overcome these issues, we developed an automated system to expose rodents to a standard uCMS protocol. Here, we compared manual (uCMS) and automated (auCMS) stress-exposure protocols. The data shows that the impact of the uCMS exposure by both methods was similar in terms of behavioral (cognition, mood, and anxiety) and physiological (cell proliferation and endocrine variations) measurements. Given the advantages of time and standardization, this automated method represents a step forward in this field of preclinical research.
PIK3R1, HRAS and AR Gene Alterations Associated with Sclerosing Polycystic Adenoma of the Parotid Gland
Authors: Bahmad Hisham F. , Elhammady Gina , Gass Jennifer M. , Paramo Juan C. , Poppiti Robert , Alexis John
Published: January 2023

Sclerosing polycystic adenoma (SPA) is a rare neoplasm occurring in the salivary glands, mainly the parotid gland. Although it was originally thought to represent a non-neoplastic process, recent genetic data have proven its monoclonality, supporting its neoplastic origin. We report a case of a 73-year-old woman who presented with left neck swelling and pain. A 3 cm hypoechoic, heterogeneous, solid mass was identified on neck ultrasonography within the left parotid gland. Fine needle aspiration revealed benign acinar cells and lymphocytes. Left partial superficial parotidectomy was performed and a diagnosis of SPA was made. Targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) revealed three clinically significant alterations in the PIK3R1, HRAS, and AR genes. Alterations in the PIK3R1 gene have been previously reported in cases of SPA; however, this study is the first to report two novel clinically significant genomic alterations in the HRAS and AR genes. AR protein expression by immunohistochemistry was strongly and diffusely positive in the neoplastic epithelial cells compared to the adjacent normal salivary gland tissue, which was dead negative for AR. This molecular profile will enhance our understanding of the molecular pathways underlying the development of this tumor. Although this entity was initially thought to be a reactive process, evidence from our case and similar cases strongly support the notion that it is neoplastic due to the presence of specific genetic alterations linked to it.
Preparation and Performance Test of UV Resistant Composite-Modified Asphalt
Authors: Shen Quanjun , Ma Shijie , Yang Yaohui , Fan Liang , Li Yongzhen , Zhao Pinhui
Published: January 2023

Ultraviolet radiation is the main cause of degradation in asphalt pavement. To improve the performance of the pavement used in the strong ultraviolet (UV) region of the western plateau, China, this study explores the effects of adding nano-montmorillonite and carbon black to SBS-modified asphalt. Through conventional index detection, dynamic shear rheological tests, low-temperature bending creep tests, and UV aging tests, the high- and low-temperature performance, fatigue performance, UV aging resistance, and other aspects of the asphalt were studied. Various performance and price factors were considered in the optimization of various UV resistant composite-modified asphalt formulas. Increasing the contents of nano-montmorillonite and carbon black increases the high-temperature performance and the UV aging resistance but reduces the low-temperature and fatigue performance of asphalt; hence, their total content should be limited to <4%. Nano-montmorillonite has a better high-temperature performance and UV aging resistance than carbon black and is also less favorable to low-temperature and fatigue performance. Hence, it is recommended that its content not exceed 3%. UV resistant composite-modified asphalt has obvious advantages in high-temperature performance and UV aging resistance compared with conventional SBS-modified asphalt, and its low-temperature performance meets the use requirements of the strong-UV areas in the western plateau.
Switching Properties of the Contact Coatings Based on Refractory Metals Alloys
Authors: Gololobov Gennady P. , Suvorov Dmitriy V. , Tyschenko Mikhail S. , Slivkin Evgeniy V. , Tolstoguzov Alexander
Published: January 2023

Switching the properties of the Ag contact groups of an electromagnetic relay with the electrodeposited Ni-W and Co-W alloy coatings was studied. It is shown that these coatings are able to stabilize the spread of contact resistance within the entire test interval and to increase the service life of Ag contact groups from 2.3 × 106 to 4.5 × 106 commutation cycles. According to our research, the service life of coated contact groups is mainly determined by a change in the surface morphology caused by the electrical erosive transfer of the contact materials and to a lesser extent by the formation of poorly conductive adsorbed hydrocarbon films.
Effect of Impurities Spacing on Fatigue Strength Coefficient
Authors: Lipiński Tomasz
Published: January 2023

The influence of impurities present in steel on fatigue strength has been the subject of research conducted for many years. Despite a large number of studies, there is no unambiguous explanation of the influence of impurities on the fatigue life of steel. The interpretation of the results becomes more complicated as the ductility of the steel increases. For this reason, most of the research concerns low-ductility hard steels. In addition, the studies presented in the literature mostly concern laboratory conditions, which the authors of the papers have tried (with varying degrees of success) to adapt to industrial research. There are a few studies on the influence of impurities in steel on the fatigue resistance factor. The coefficient k is the result of the fatigue strength zg divided by the hardness of the steel. With its help, it is possible to determine the fatigue strength depending on the hardness of the steel. In the presented work, an attempt was made to determine the impact of impurities of different sizes and located at different distances from each other on the fatigue strength coefficient. The analysis was carried out at seven heats made in industrial conditions. Melting was carried out in electric furnaces with a capacity of 140 tons. Steel from all melts was subjected to desulfurization. Samples with a diameter of 18 mm were taken. The samples were hardened from the austenitizing temperature of 880 °C. To diversify the microstructure and mechanical properties, the steel was tempered at temperatures from 200 to 600 °C. After heat treatment, the samples were subjected to rotational bending. Based on the tests, it was found that the fatigue strength coefficient k depends on the size of the impurities and the distance between the inclusions. A difference in the specific k-factors was noted depending on the microstructure of the steel.
Flora and Conservation Issues in Two Protected Areas in Palestine: Wadi Al-Zarqa Al-Ulwi and Wadi Qana
Authors: Qumsiyeh Mazin B. , Al-Sheikh Banan
Published: January 2023

The Palestinian environment suffered from abuse and neglect for decades. As a nascent state, Palestine aspired to protect and restore its environment, in line with international standards and conventions. Yet, many challenges remain, including a lack of data, the science–policy–practice gaps, and the lack of sovereignty. The management of protected areas (PAs) is particularly challenging under these circumstance. Two key protected areas in the northern West Bank (Wadi Qana and Wadi Al-Zarqa Al-Ulwi) were surveyed, with a focus on plant communities and dealing with threats. The two areas had similar Mediterranean flora with differences, including in rare plants. Both areas have important but different wetlands in their buffer zones. The data show that the protection of the two areas is important because of the differences noted, and both areas are valued as IUCN category IV (habitat/species management area) protection. Such protection is possible by working with local communities and bridging the science–policy–practice gaps.
Prediction of Increased Intracranial Pressure in Traumatic Brain Injury Using Quantitative Electroencephalogram in a Porcine Experimental Model
Authors: Kim Ki-Hong , Kim Heejin , Song Kyoung-Jun , Shin Sang-Do , Kim Hee-Chan , Lim Hyouk-Jae , Kim Yoonjic , Kang Hyun-Jeong , Hong Ki-Jeong
Published: January 2023

Continuous and non-invasive measurement of intracranial pressure (ICP) in traumatic brain injury (TBI) is important to recognize increased ICP (IICP), which can reduce treatment delays. The purpose of this study was to develop an electroencephalogram (EEG)-based prediction model for IICP in a porcine TBI model. Thirty swine were anaesthetized and underwent IICP by inflating a Foley catheter in the intracranial space. Single-channel EEG data were collected every 6 min in 10 mmHg increments in the ICP from baseline to 50 mmHg. We developed EEG-based models to predict the IICP (equal or over 25 mmHg) using four algorithms: logistic regression (LR), naive Bayes (NB), support vector machine (SVM), and random forest (RF). We assessed the performance of each model based on the accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and AUC values. The accuracy of each prediction model for IICP was 0.773 for SVM, 0.749 for NB, 0.746 for RF, and 0.706 for LR. The AUC of each model was 0.860 for SVM, 0.824 for NB, 0.802 for RF, and 0.748 for LR. We developed a machine learning prediction model for IICP using single-channel EEG signals in a swine TBI experimental model. The SVM model showed good predictive power with the highest AUC value.
Dynamic Multi-Attention Dehazing Network with Adaptive Feature Fusion
Authors: Zhao Donghui , Mo Bo , Zhu Xiang , Zhao Jie , Zhang Heng , Tao Yimeng , Zhao Chunbo
Published: January 2023

This paper proposes a Dynamic Multi-Attention Dehazing Network (DMADN) for single image dehazing. The proposed network consists of two key components, the Dynamic Feature Attention (DFA) module, and the Adaptive Feature Fusion (AFF) module. The DFA module provides pixel-wise weights and channel-wise weights for input features, considering that the haze distribution is always uneven in a degenerated image and the value in each channel is different. We propose an AFF module based on the adaptive mixup operation to restore the missing spatial information from high-resolution layers. Most previous works have concentrated on increasing the scale of the model to improve dehazing performance, which makes it difficult to apply in edge devices. We introduce contrastive learning in our training processing, which leverages both positive and negative samples to optimize our network. The contrastive learning strategy could effectively improve the quality of output while not increasing the model’s complexity and inference time in the testing phase. Extensive experimental results on the synthetic and real-world hazy images demonstrate that DMADN achieves state-of-the-art dehazing performance with a competitive number of parameters.
Time Synchronization and Space Registration of Roadside LiDAR and Camera
Authors: Wang Chuan , Liu Shijie , Wang Xiaoyan , Lan Xiaowei
Published: January 2023

The sensing system consisting of Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) and a camera provides complementary information about the surrounding environment. To take full advantage of multi-source data provided by different sensors, an accurate fusion of multi-source sensor information is needed. Time synchronization and space registration are the key technologies that affect the fusion accuracy of multi-source sensors. Due to the difference in data acquisition frequency and deviation in startup time between LiDAR and the camera, asynchronous data acquisition between LiDAR and camera is easy to occur, which has a significant influence on subsequent data fusion. Therefore, a time synchronization method of multi-source sensors based on frequency self-matching is developed in this paper. Without changing the sensor frequency, the sensor data are processed to obtain the same number of data frames and set the same ID number, so that the LiDAR and camera data correspond one by one. Finally, data frames are merged into new data packets to realize time synchronization between LiDAR and camera. Based on time synchronization, to achieve spatial synchronization, a nonlinear optimization algorithm of joint calibration parameters is used, which can effectively reduce the reprojection error in the process of sensor spatial registration. The accuracy of the proposed time synchronization method is 99.86% and the space registration accuracy is 99.79%, which is better than the calibration method of the Matlab calibration toolbox.
Deep Learning-Based Prediction of Unsteady Reynolds-Averaged Navier-Stokes Solutions for Vertical-Axis Turbines
Authors: Dorge Chloë , Bibeau Eric
Published: January 2023

The following study investigates the effectiveness of a deep learning-based method for predicting the flow field and flow-driven rotation of a vertical-axis hydrokinetic turbine operating in previously unseen free-stream velocities. A Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) is trained and tested using the solutions of five two-dimensional (2-D), foil-resolved Unsteady Reynolds-Averaged Navier-Stokes (URANS) simulations, with free-stream velocities of 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, and 3.0 m/s. Based on the boundary conditions of free-stream velocity and rotor position, the flow fields of x-velocity, y-velocity, pressure, and turbulent viscosity are inferred, in addition to the angular velocity of the rotor. Three trained CNN models are developed to evaluate the effects of (1) the dimensions of the training data, and (2) the number of simulations used as training cases. Reducing data dimensions was found to diminish mean relative error in predictions of velocity and turbulent viscosity, while increasing it in predictions of pressure and angular velocity. Increasing the number of training cases from two to three was found to reduce relative error for all predicted unknowns. With the best achieved CNN model, the variables of x-velocity, y-velocity, pressure, turbulent viscosity, and angular velocity were inferred with mean relative errors of 6.93%, 9.82%, 10.7%, 7.48%, and 0.817%, respectively.
Application of Capacitive Deionization in Water Treatment and Energy Recovery: A Review
Authors: Bao Shenxu , Xin Chunfu , Zhang Yimin , Chen Bo , Ding Wei , Luo Yongpeng
Published: January 2023

Water resources are the basis for human survival and development. However, human beings face severe challenges of water pollution and freshwater shortage. With the critical advantages of low energy consumption, high efficiency, low cost, green and pollution-free, and renewable electrodes, capacitive deionization (CDI) has become an up-and-coming water treatment technology. After decades of development, the application of CDI has expanded from seawater desalination to many fields. However, the existing literature still needs a comprehensive overview of the multi-functional application of CDI technology in water treatment. Therefore, our work critically reviewed the latest research progress of CDI in water treatment to meet the technical requirements of various application fields. This paper first summarizes the various applications of CDI in water treatment, focusing on CDI’s representative research results in heavy metal removal, organic contaminants removal, water softening, phosphate and nitrate removal, and water disinfection. In addition, we also discussed the latest research progress of energy recovery and energy consumption assessment for the CDI process. Finally, this paper discusses the challenges and future opportunities facing CDI technology.
3D CFD Modelling of Performance of a Vertical Axis Turbine
Authors: Gerrie Cameron , Islam Sheikh Zahidul , Gerrie Sean , Turner Naomi , Asim Taimoor
Published: January 2023

Recently, wind turbine research has switched focus to vertical axis wind turbines due to the extensive research that has been performed on horizontal axis wind turbines and the potential of vertical axis wind turbines in built-up areas. This study aims to analyse the performance of a small-scale hybrid vertical axis wind turbine that can switch from functioning as a Darrieus (lift) turbine to a Savonius (drag) turbine by rotating the blades. The turbine was analysed using 3D computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations in ANSYS Fluent as the primary method, and the findings were verified using wind tunnel experiments. During the analysis, design parameters such as the blade length, diameter, and number of blades were varied to determine if the design had room for improvement. It was found that the current design of the turbine has an optimal efficiency of 12.5% in the Darrieus configuration, which was found to increase when the diameter or blade length was increased. The Savonius configuration was found to be more efficient at low tip-speed ratios (<0.14), and its efficiency could be increased by adding more blades. The experiments found similar trends to the simulations; however, the efficiencies obtained were on average a tenfold increase from the simulation. Implementing the changes that increased efficiency leads to an increased wake recovery distance, making it less suitable for use in a wind farm.
Hydrogen and Corrosion Resistance of Nickel Superalloys for Gas Turbines, Engines Cooled Blades
Authors: Balitskii Alexander I. , Kvasnytska Yuliia H. , Ivaskevych Lyubomir M. , Kvasnytska Kateryna H. , Balitskii Olexiy A. , Shalevska Inna A. , Shynskii Oleg Y. , Jaworski Jaroslaw M. , Dowejko Jakub M.
Published: January 2023

The paper presents the results of the analysis of the resistance to hydrogen and high-temperature salt corrosion of the developed alloy of the CM88Y type for the turbine blades of gas turbine engines for marine and power purposes in comparison with the industrial heat-resistant corrosion-resistant alloy CM88Y and the alloy for the protective coating of the SDP3-A blades. SDP3-A alloy was chosen as a reference sample, which has high hydrogen and corrosion resistance. The new heat-resistant alloy additionally contains such refractory metals as rhenium and tantalum, which are added to the composition of the alloy in order to increase operational characteristics while maintaining phase-structural stability. These are properties such as long-term and fatigue strength, characteristics of plasticity and strength at room and elevated temperatures. Therefore, the purpose of these studies was to determine the resistance to high-temperature salt corrosion of the developed alloy in comparison with the industrial heat-resistant nickel alloy and to evaluate the influence of alloying, hydrogen embrittlement of CM88Y and ZhS3DK alloys with different contents of chromium, boron, zirconium, hafnium, and yttrium were compared. The corrosion resistance of the materials was evaluated after crucible tests in a salt solution at a temperature of 900 °C for 30 h, according to the standard method. The corrosion resistances of alloys were determined by the mass loss, corrosion rate, and data from metallographic studies.
Performance Evaluation of Carbon-Based Nanofluids for Direct Absorption Solar Collector
Authors: Yu Shang-Pang , Teng Tun-Ping , Huang Chia-Cing , Hsieh Hsiang-Kai , Wei Yi-Jia
Published: January 2023

In this study, carbon-based nanofluids (CBNFs) were prepared using a revised vortex trap method and applied in the direct absorption solar collector (DASC) to evaluate the feasibility of CBNFs in DASC. The thermal storage performance of water and different concentrations of CBNFs (0.01, 0.025 and 0.05 wt%) was assessed with a 1000 W halogen lamp as a simulated light source under different volumetric flow rates (1.5, 3.0, and 4.5 L per minute [LPM]) at a constant thermal storage load (2.4 kg of water) and ambient temperature of 26 °C. The thermal storage capacity, system efficiency factor (SEF), and heating rate of the CBNFs as the working fluid were higher than those of water in most cases. The thermal storage capacity and SEF of 0.05 wt% CBNF at a volumetric flow rate of 3.0 LPM were 10.36% and 9.36% higher than that of water, respectively. The relevant experimental results demonstrate the great potential of CBNFs in DASC.
Transient Fault Signal Identification of AT Traction Network Based on Improved HHT and LSTM Neural Network Algorithm
Authors: Zhou Huan , Chen Jianyun , Ye Manyuan , Fu Qincui , Li Song
Published: January 2023

This paper aims to address the difficult to pinpoint fault cause of the full parallel AT traction power supply system with special structure. The fault characteristics are easily covered up, and high transition impedance only affects the singularity of the wavehead, making the traveling waves hard to identify. Moreover, the classification accuracy of the traditional time-frequency analysis method is not sufficiently high to distinguish precisely. In this paper, a fault classification method of traction network based on single-channel improved Hilbert–Huang transform and deep learning is proposed. This method extracts effective fault features directly from the original fault signals and classifies the fault types at the same time. The accuracy of data categorization is increased by directly applying the Hilbert–Huang transform to fault signals to extract transient fault features and produce one-dimensional feature data, which are analyzed by the time-frequency energy spectrum. Using the similarity recognition method of long-short-term memory neural network, the extracted high-frequency one-dimensional feature data are trained and tested to classify fault signals more accurately. In order to verify the effectiveness of this method, several kinds of short-circuit and lightning strike faults are continuously simulated and verified in this paper. Considering various fault conditions and factors, the proposed improved HHT+LSTM method is compared with the LSTM method for direct processing of the original signals. The improved HHT + LSTM classification algorithm achieves an accuracy of 99.99%.
Physical and Acoustical Properties of Wavy Grain Sycamore Maple (Acer pseudoplatanus L.) Used for Musical Instruments
Authors: Dinulica Florin , Savin Adriana , Stanciu Mariana Domnica
Published: January 2023

The wood used in the construction of musical instruments is carefully selected, being the best quality wood from the point of view of the wood structure. However, depending on the anatomical characteristics of the wood, the resonance of wood is classified into quality classes. For example, sycamore maple wood with curly grains is appreciated by luthiers for its three-dimensional optical effect. This study highlights the statistical correlations between the physical and anatomical characteristics of sycamore maple wood and its acoustic and elastic properties, compared to the types of wood historically used in violins. The methods used were based on the determination of the acoustic properties with the ultrasound method, the color of the wood with the three coordinates in the CIELab system and the statistical processing of the data. The sycamore maple wood samples were divided into anatomical quality classes in accordance with the selection made by the luthiers. The results emphasized the multiple correlations between density, brightness, degree of red, width of annual rings, acoustic and elastic properties, depending on the quality classes. In conclusion, the work provides a valuable database regarding the physical–acoustic and elastic properties of sycamore maple wood.
Transcriptome Analysis of 5-Aminolevulinic Acid Contributing to Cold Tolerance in Tea Leaves (Camellia sinensis L.)
Authors: Yan Fei , Qu Dong , Chen Xiaohua , Yang Jianjun , Zeng Haitao , Li Xinsheng
Published: January 2023

Tea (Camellia sinensis L.) is an important perennial cash crop and a typical subtropical plant. It is widely concerned because of its unique flavor and health benefits. In recent years, low temperatures have severely restricted the growth of tea plants and quality of tea products, especially in spring. As a common precursor for all porphyrin compounds, 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) is involved in photosynthesis and respiration and plays an active role in improving salt, drought and low-temperature tolerance in plants. However, it is not yet clear what affect exogenous ALA has on tea plants’ tolerance under low temperature. In the present study, we collected and deciphered the transcriptome profiles from Shaancha No. 1 leaf tissues under low temperature (−4 °C) treatment (T-4), exogenous ALA application (T-A), pretreated ALA before low temperature (T-A-4) and untreated control (T-CK). Results showed that 4990 (2375 up- and 2615 down-regulated), 223 (103 up- and 120 down-regulated) and 92 (13 up- and 79 down-regulated) differentially expression genes (DEGs) were identified at T-CK vs. T-4, T-CK vs. T-A and T-4 vs. T-A-4, respectively. Both T-4 and T-A treatments triggered a myriad of stress resistance genes up-regulated related to multiple signaling pathways by means of Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis. This included MAPK, a toll-like receptor that signals pathways involved in cold resistance. However, gene ontology (GO) analysis showed that the DEGs in T-4 treatment were mainly enriched in the phenylpropanoid metabolic and redox processes that were relevant to membrane structure damage response. In contrast, the DEGs in T-A treatment were mainly enriched in cell recognition and amylase activity. Furthermore, in pairwise comparison of T-A-4 vs. T-4, the DEGs were enriched in ascorbate and aldarate, retionol, taurine and hypotaurine, glutathione metabolic pathways and two biosynthesis process including zeatin, diterpenoid biosynthesis, which might contribute to mitigating the damage caused by low temperature. Overall, these results indicated that exogenous ALA application may improve the biochemical attributes and enhance the tolerance to low temperature, which provides a valuable strategy to improve tea quality and cold stress.
Fully Coupled Fluid–Structure Interaction with Heat Transfer Effects in an Adaptive NACA Airfoil
Authors: Caccavale Paolo , Mele Benedetto , Brandizzi Marco , Ruocco Gianpaolo
Published: January 2023

In the framework of innovative aerodynamics, active airfoils can be developed and exploited based on the integration of shape memory metal alloys (SMAs), allowing for surface adaptation, i.e., shape changes in response to operative thermal inputs, depending on the desired aerodynamic behavior. The purpose of thermally activated shape-changing (TASC) airfoils’ improved capabilities is to offer benefits in terms of aircraft performance and fuel consumption rate. TASC airfoil design hinges upon three intertwined and nonlinear phenomena, namely the solid–fluid–thermal interactions. In this paper, in order to approach the definition of appropriate design parameters, the space of operating variables is explored for the first time by devising a finite element method simulation encompassing the equations of structural motion, energy, and turbulent Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes. Such a fully coupled model is then tested by implementing a sensitivity analysis for a preliminary design of a TASC/NACA airfoil. Temperature and velocity distributions are presented and discussed, including new metrics leading to aerodynamic lift calculations. When the efficiency is computed as the lift-to-drag ratio, it is found to vary nonlinearly in the 0–45 range, with the activating power feed in the 0–1000 W range.
Adaptive Evolution of Rhizobial Symbiosis beyond Horizontal Gene Transfer: From Genome Innovation to Regulation Reconstruction
Authors: Liu Sheng , Jiao Jian , Tian Chang-Fu
Published: January 2023

There are ubiquitous variations in symbiotic performance of different rhizobial strains associated with the same legume host in agricultural practices. This is due to polymorphisms of symbiosis genes and/or largely unexplored variations in integration efficiency of symbiotic function. Here, we reviewed cumulative evidence on integration mechanisms of symbiosis genes. Experimental evolution, in concert with reverse genetic studies based on pangenomics, suggests that gain of the same circuit of key symbiosis genes through horizontal gene transfer is necessary but sometimes insufficient for bacteria to establish an effective symbiosis with legumes. An intact genomic background of the recipient may not support the proper expression or functioning of newly acquired key symbiosis genes. Further adaptive evolution, through genome innovation and reconstruction of regulation networks, may confer the recipient of nascent nodulation and nitrogen fixation ability. Other accessory genes, either co-transferred with key symbiosis genes or stochastically transferred, may provide the recipient with additional adaptability in ever-fluctuating host and soil niches. Successful integrations of these accessory genes with the rewired core network, regarding both symbiotic and edaphic fitness, can optimize symbiotic efficiency in various natural and agricultural ecosystems. This progress also sheds light on the development of elite rhizobial inoculants using synthetic biology procedures.
Attitudes toward COVID-19 Vaccine Uptake: A Qualitative Study of Mostly Immigrant Racial/Ethnic Minority Older Adults
Authors: Valero-Martínez Carla , Martínez-Rivera Christopher , Zhen-Duan Jenny , Fukuda Marie , Alegría Margarita
Published: January 2023

(1) Background: Few qualitative studies address diverse older adults’ perceptions of COVID-19 vaccination in the United States, including non-English speakers and immigrant populations. This study aims to understand the attitudes of diverse, primarily immigrant older adults in the U.S. toward the COVID-19 vaccine and its influences on their vaccination decision-making. (2) Methods: The research team conducted semi-structured interviews (N = 100) in 2021 focused on understanding ethnically/racially diverse older adults’ perceptions of the COVID-19 vaccine. Interviews were recorded, coded, and analyzed using a thematic analysis approach. (3) Results: Thematic analyses identified three themes. (1) Older adults showed mixed attitudes toward the COVID-19 vaccine associated with information consumed and trust in healthcare systems; (2) health concerns and underlying medical conditions were the most influential factors of vaccine uptake; and (3) systemic barriers and trusted figures impacted vaccination decision-making of older adults. (4) Conclusions: Accessible information in diverse languages tailored to the community’s fears is needed to combat vaccine mistrust. Vaccine rollout programs need to tackle the fear of vaccine side effects. Attitudes of religious leaders, family members, and physicians considerably influenced vaccine uptake, suggesting their role as trusted members for vaccine messaging for older, primarily immigrant adults. Systemic barriers, namely lack of transportation and inaccessible vaccination sites, contributed to vaccine deterrence.
Pricing and Quantity Decisions under Asymmetric Carbon Emission Reduction Information and Cap-and-Trade Mechanism
Authors: Xie Faqi , Deng Yushuang , Chen Huiru
Published: January 2023

With the continuous spread of cap-and-trade mechanisms and consumers’ great concerns about environmental issues, manufacturers strive to reduce carbon emissions. Unfortunately, they are not always willing to disclose their accurate emission reductions or may even falsify emission reduction information. By developing a signaling model, we explore the impact of the cap-and-trade mechanism and asymmetric information on the decision-making of supply chain members composed of a manufacturer regulated by the cap-and-trade mechanism, and a retailer. As a result, we show that the low-type manufacturer has the incentive to mimic the pricing behavior of the high-type manufacturer under information asymmetry. Thus, in order to avoid this mimicry, the high-type manufacturer will distort the wholesale price. Moreover, the impact of the cap-and-trade mechanism on the manufacturer depends on the initial quotas. Only when the initial quota is in the middle range does the high-type manufacturer benefit, while the low-type manufacturer suffers. Furthermore, the low-type manufacturer tends to hide emission reduction information, while the high-type manufacturer tends to disclose the information. We also address how information asymmetry weakens the emission reduction advantages of the high-type manufacturer. However, the cap-and-trade mechanism can effectively alleviate this negative effect.
Treatment of HPV-Related Uterine Cervical Cancer with a Third-Generation Oncolytic Herpes Simplex Virus in Combination with an Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor
Authors: Kagabu Masahiro , Yoshino Naoto , Murakami Kazuyuki , Kawamura Hideki , Sasaki Yutaka , Muraki Yasushi , Baba Tsukasa
Published: January 2023

Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers in women. The development of new therapies with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) is being investigated for cervical cancer; however, their efficacy is not currently sufficient. Oncolytic virus therapy can increase tumor immunogenicity and enhance the antitumor effect of ICIs. In this report, the therapeutic potential of a triple-mutated oncolytic herpes virus (T-01) with an ICI for human papillomavirus (HPV)-related cervical cancer was evaluated using a bilateral syngeneic murine model. The efficacy of intratumoral (i.t.) administration with T-01 and subcutaneous (s.c.) administration of anti-programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) antibody (Ab) was equivalent to that of anti-PD-L1 Ab alone on the T-01-injected side. Moreover, combination therapy had no significant antitumor effect compared to monotherapy on the T-01-non-injected side. Combination therapy significantly increased the number of tumor specific T cells in the tumor. While T-01 could not be isolated from tumors receiving combination therapy, it could be isolated following T-01 monotherapy. Furthermore, T-01 had a cytotoxic effect on stimulated T cells. These results suggest that T-01 and anti-PD-L1 Ab partially counteract and therefore concomitant administration should be considered with caution.
Structural and Dynamic Disturbances Revealed by Molecular Dynamics Simulations Predict the Impact on Function of CCT5 Chaperonin Mutations Associated with Rare Severe Distal Neuropathies
Authors: Scalia Federica , Lo Bosco Giosuè , Paladino Letizia , Vitale Alessandra Maria , Noori Leila , Conway de Macario Everly , Macario Alberto J. L. , Bucchieri Fabio , Cappello Francesco , Lo Celso Fabrizio
Published: January 2023

Mutations in genes encoding molecular chaperones, for instance the genes encoding the subunits of the chaperonin CCT (chaperonin containing TCP-1, also known as TRiC), are associated with rare neurodegenerative disorders. Using a classical molecular dynamics approach, we investigated the occurrence of conformational changes and differences in physicochemical properties of the CCT5 mutations His147Arg and Leu224Val associated with a sensory and a motor distal neuropathy, respectively. The apical domain of both variants was substantially but differently affected by the mutations, although these were in other domains. The distribution of hydrogen bonds and electrostatic potentials on the surface of the mutant subunits differed from the wild-type molecule. Structural and dynamic analyses, together with our previous experimental data, suggest that genetic mutations may cause different changes in the protein-binding capacity of CCT5 variants, presumably within both hetero- and/or homo-oligomeric complexes. Further investigations are necessary to elucidate the molecular pathogenic pathways of the two variants that produce the two distinct phenotypes. The data and clinical observations by us and others indicate that CCT chaperonopathies are more frequent than currently believed and should be investigated in patients with neuropathies.
Design, Synthesis and Pharmacological Evaluation of New Quinoline-Based Panx-1 Channel Blockers
Authors: Crocetti Letizia , Giovannoni Maria Paola , Guerrini Gabriella , Lamanna Silvia , Melani Fabrizio , Bartolucci Gianluca , Pallecchi Marco , Paoli Paola , Lippi Martina , Wang Junjie , Dahl Gerhard
Published: January 2023

Pannexins are an interesting new target in medicinal chemistry, as they are involved in many pathologies such as epilepsy, ischemic stroke, cancer and Parkinson’s disease, as well as in neuropathic pain. They are a family of membrane channel proteins consisting of three members, Panx-1, Panx-2 and Panx-3, and are expressed in vertebrates. In the present study, as a continuation of our research in this field, we report the design, synthesis and pharmacological evaluation of new quinoline-based Panx-1 blockers. The most relevant compounds 6f and 6g show an IC50 = 3 and 1.5 µM, respectively, and are selective Panx-1 blockers. Finally, chemical stability, molecular modelling and X-ray crystallography studies have been performed providing useful information for the realization of the project.
Surface Biofunctionalization of Gadolinium Phosphate Nanobunches for Boosting Osteogenesis/Chondrogenesis Differentiation
Authors: Cai Zhongxing , Guo Ziyi , Yang Chaohui , Wang Fei , Zhang Peibiao , Wang Yu , Guo Min , Wang Zongliang , Huang Jing , Zhang Long
Published: January 2023

In order to achieve smart biomedical micro/nanomaterials, promote interaction with biomolecules, improve osteogenic/chondrogenic differentiation, exhibit better dispersion in bone implants and ultimately maximize functionality, we innovatively and successfully designed and synthesized polymer PBLG-modified GdPO4·H2O nanobunches by hydroxylation, silylation and glutamylation processes. The effects of different feeding ratios on the surface coating of GdPO4·H2O with Si-OH, the grafting γ-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APS) and the in situ ring-opening polymerization reaction of poly(g-benzyl-L-glutamate) (PBLG) were investigated, and the physical and chemical properties were characterized in detail. When GdPO4·H2O@SiO2–APS:NCA = 4:1, the PBLG-g-GdPO4·H2O grafting rate was 5.93%, with good stability and dispersion in degradable polymeric materials. However, the MRI imaging signal was sequentially weakened as the modification process proceeded. Despite this, the biological effects had surprising findings. All the modifiers at appropriate concentrations were biocompatible and biologically active and the biomacromolecules of COL I and COL II in particular were expressed at least 3 times higher in GdPO4·H2O@SiO2 compared to the PLGA. This indicates that the appropriate surface modification and functionalization of gadolinium-containing micro/nanomaterials can promote interaction with cells and encourage bone regeneration by regulating biomacromolecules and can be used in the field of biomedical materials.
The Correlation between Waist Circumference and the Pro-Inflammatory Adipokines in Diabetic Retinopathy of Type 2 Diabetes Patients
Authors: Lee Yeo Jin , Kim Joeng Ju , Kim Jongmin , Cho Dong-Woo , Won Jae Yon
Published: January 2023

Central obesity is one of the major risk factors for type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM), and the most common complication of DM is diabetic retinopathy. However, the exact relationship between obesity and DR remains unknown. In this study, we evaluate the effect of obesity on DR by comparing the aqueous humor-derived adipokines. For the analysis, 37 DR patients and 29 non-DR-patients participated. To evaluate the obesity of the patients, body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) were used. By comparing the concentrations of adipokines obtained from the aqueous humor of the two groups, the relationship between DR and adipokines was analyzed. In addition, by analyzing the correlation between obesity and adipokines in patients, the relationship between central obesity and DR was finally confirmed. The WC was significantly higher in patients than in the non-patient group. The concentrations of all adipokines compared in this study were significantly higher in the DR group than in the non-DM group (p < 0.05). Among them, adiponectin, leptin, TNF-α, Factor D (adipsin), lipocalin-2 (NGAL), Serpin E1 (PAI-1), and CXCL8 (IL-8) were confirmed to have a positive correlation with central obesity (defined as WC). These findings suggest that central obesity is strongly associated with the risk of DR.
The Effect of Silica Nanoparticles (SiNPs) on Cytotoxicity, Induction of Oxidative Stress and Apoptosis in Breast Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Krętowski Rafał , Jabłońska-Trypuć Agata , Cechowska-Pasko Marzanna
Published: January 2023

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in women. Silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) belong to the group of often-used nanoparticles in biomedical applications. The mechanisms of the cytotoxicity, apoptosis, and oxidative stress induced by the 5–15 nm SiNPs still remain unclear. The aim of the study was to evaluate the anti-cancer effect and mechanism of action of SiNPs in breast cancer cell lines. The breast cancer MDA-MB-231 and ZR-75-1 cell lines were analyzed using MTT assay, flow cytometry, and spectrophotometric methods. In this paper, we presented findings about the cytotoxicity, apoptosis, and oxidative stress in both breast cancer cell lines. We indicated that 5–15 nm SiNPs induced dose-dependent cytotoxicity in MDA-MB-231 and ZR-75-1 cells. Moreover, we demonstrated that the process of apoptosis in the studied cell lines was associated with a decrease in the mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) and an increase in the activity of caspase-9 and caspase-3. Based on the obtained results, 5–15 nm SiNPs are able to induce the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway. Analyzed nanoparticles have also been found to cause an increase in selected oxidative stress parameters in both breast cancer cell lines. The presented study provides an explanation of the possible mechanisms of 5–15 nm SiNPs action in breast cancer cells.
Androgen Deprivation Freezes Hormone-Sensitive Prostate Cancer Cells in a Reversible, Genetically Unstable Quasi-Apoptotic State, Bursting into Full Apoptosis upon Poly(ADP-ribose) Polymerase Inhibition
Authors: Pelliccia Andrea , Capradossi Francesco , Corsi Francesca , Tarquini Greta Deidda , Bruni Emanuele , Reichle Albrecht , Torino Francesco , Ghibelli Lina
Published: January 2023

Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is a powerful treatment for metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer (mHSPC) patients, but eventually and inevitably, cancer relapses, progressing to the fatal castration-resistant (CR)PC stage. Progression implies the emergence of cells proliferating in the absence of androgen through still elusive mechanisms. We show here for the first time that ADT induces LNCaP mHSPC cells to collectively enter a metastable quasi-apoptotic state (QUAPS) consisting of partial mitochondrial permeabilization, limited BAX and caspase activation, and moderate induction of caspase-dependent dsDNA breaks; despite this, cells maintain full viability. QUAPS is destabilized by poly(ADP)-polymerase inhibition (PARPi), breaking off toward overt intrinsic apoptosis and culture extinction. Instead, QUAPS is rapidly and efficiently reverted upon androgen restoration, with mitochondria rapidly recovering integrity and cells collectively resuming normal proliferation. Notably, replication restarts before DNA repair is completed, and implies an increased micronuclei frequency, indicating that ADT promotes genetic instability. The recovered cells re-acquire insensitivity to PARPi (as untreated LNCaP), pointing to specific, context-dependent vulnerability of mHSPC cells to PARPi during ADT. Summarizing, QUAPS is an unstable, pro-mutagenic state developing as a pro-survival pathway stabilized by PARP, and constitutes a novel viewpoint explaining how ADT-treated mHSPC may progress to CRPC, indicating possible preventive countermeasures.