bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Singular Phenomenon Analysis of Wind-Driven Circulation System Based on Galerkin Low-Order Model
Authors: Feng Peihua , Cao Shengli , Liu Zhilong
Published: August 2024

Ocean circulation plays an important role in the formation and occurrence of extreme climate events. The study shows that the periodic variation of ocean circulation under strong wind stress is closely related to climate oscillation. Ocean circulation is a nonlinear dynamic system, which shows complex nonlinear characteristics, so the essence behind ocean circulation has not been clearly explained. Therefore, the response and evolution of the circulation system to wind stress are studied based on the bifurcation and catastrophe theories in nonlinear dynamics. First, the quasi-geostrophic gyre equation and the normalized gravity model are introduced and developed to study ocean circulation driven by wind stress, and solved using the Galerkin method. Then, the bifurcation and catastrophe behaviors of the system governed by the low-order ocean circulation model during the change in wind stress intensity and the coexistence of multiple equilibria in the circulation system are studied in detail. The results show that saddle and unstable nodes appear in the system after a cusp catastrophe. With the change in model parameters, the unstable node becomes the unstable focus, and then the subcritical Hopf bifurcation occurs. The system forms a bistable interval when the system undergoes a catastrophe twice, and the system shows hysteresis. In addition, multiple equilibrium states are coexisting in the circulating system, and the unstable equilibrium state always changes into a stable equilibrium state through vortex movement. Therefore, there is a route for the system to induce short-term climate oscillation, that is, in the multi-stable equilibrium state of the system, the vortex oscillates after being subject to small disturbances, and then triggers climate oscillation.
Experimentally Aided Operational Virtual Prototyping to Predict Best Clamping Conditions for Face Milling of Large-Size Structures
Authors: Kaliński Krzysztof J. , Galewski Marek A. , Mazur Michał R. , Stawicka-Morawska Natalia
Published: August 2024

Vibrations occurring during milling operations are one of the main issues disturbing the pursuit of better efficiency of milling operations and product quality. Even in the case of a stable cutting process, vibration reduction is still an important goal. One of the possible solutions to obtain it is selection of the favorable conditions for clamping the workpiece to the machine table. In this paper, a method for predicting and selecting the clamping condition of a large-size workpiece for the reduction in vibrations during milling is presented. A modal test of the workpiece is performed first for a selected set of tightening screw settings. Next, one milling pass is performed to obtain reference data which are then used to tune the hybrid computational model. In the subsequent step, milling simulations are performed for a set of tightening variants, and the best one is selected, providing the lowest vibrations, assessed as the root mean square (RMS) of vibration displacements. In this paper, the description of the clamping selection procedure, key elements of the simulation model, and simulation and experimental results obtained for the milling of the test workpiece performed for a set of different clamping conditions are provided. The proposed method accurately predicts not only the best but also the worst clamping conditions.
Climatic Suitability for Outdoor Tourism in Romania’s Big Cities
Authors: Croitoru Adina-Eliza , Banc Ștefana , Scripcă Andreea-Sabina , Rus Adina-Viorica
Published: August 2024

This research aims to assess the climatic temporal suitability over the year and identify the appropriate season for open-air tourism in ten Romanian cities. It was evaluated using the Enhanced Tourism Climatic Index on a temporal scale of one day and then aggregated to 10 days over 61 years (1961–2021). Daily mean and maximum temperature, mean and minimum relative humidity, wind speed, precipitation, and sunshine hours were employed in the investigation. The Mann–Kendall test and Sen’s slope were used for trend detection in the frequency, season duration, and first/last suitable day during the year for outdoor tourism. Acceptable or better weather conditions usually begin in the last part of April and end in mid-October, with Good or better conditions lasting between 260 and 310 days/year. The trend shows a shift of Good conditions earlier in the year (0.3–9.0 days/decade), resulting in a longer season duration (0.8–13.0 days/decade) for open-air activities. The trend is statistically significant mainly for the extra-Carpathian regions. Big differences in open-air events number during the climatically suitable season have been identified among the cities considered (2–19 events/year). This study is useful for better planning open-air events and activities for tourism and recreation.
Impact of May–June Antarctic Oscillation on July–August Heat-Drought Weather in Yangtze River Basin
Authors: Yuan Zhengxuan , Zhang Jun , Du Liangmin , Xiao Ying , Huang Sijing
Published: August 2024

Investigating the physical mechanism behind the formation of summer heat-drought weather (HDW) in the Yangtze River Basin (YRB) holds significant importance for predicting summer precipitation and temperature patterns in the region as well as disaster mitigation and prevention. This study focuses on spatiotemporal patterns of July–August (JA) HDW in the YRB from 1979 to 2022, which is linked partially to the preceding May–June (MJ) Antarctic Oscillation (AAO). Key findings are summarized as follows: (1) The MJ AAO displays a marked positive correlation with the JA HDW index (HDWI) in the southern part of upper YRB (UYRB), while showing a negative correlation in the area extending from the Han River to the western lower reaches of the YRB (LYRB); (2) The signal of MJ AAO persists into late JA through a specific pattern of Sea Surface Temperature anomalies in the Southern Ocean (SOSST). This, in turn, modulates the atmospheric circulation over East Asia; (3) The SST anomalies in the South Atlantic initiate Rossby waves that cross the equator, splitting into two branches. One branch propagates from the Somali-Tropical Indian Ocean, maintaining a negative-phased East Asia–Pacific (EAP) teleconnection pattern. This enhances the moisture flow from the Pacific towards the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River Basin (MYRB-LYRB). The other branch propagates northward, crossing the Somali region, and induces a positive geopotential height anomaly over Urals-West Asia. This reduces the southwesterlies towards the UYRB, thereby contributing to HDW variabilities in the region. (4) Partial Least Squares Regression (PLSR) demonstrated predictive capability for JA HDW in the YRB for 2022, based on Southern Ocean SST.
Role of Cholecystokinin (cck) in Feeding Regulation of Largemouth Bass (Micropterus salmoides): Peptide Activation and Antagonist Inhibition
Authors: Liang Hualiang , Mi Haifeng , Yu Heng , Huang Dongyu , Ren Mingchun , Zhang Lu , Teng Tao
Published: August 2024

This study investigated the role of cholecystokinin (cck) in the feeding regulation of largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) via peptide activation and antagonist inhibition. The results show that the cck gene was expressed in various tissues, with the highest expression level occurring in the brain. Feeding, continuous feeding, and refeeding after fasting could significantly improve the mRNA levels of cck in the brain. Moreover, the activation of cck via injecting an exogenous CCK peptide could inhibit feed intake by regulating the mRNA levels of anorexigenic and feed-promoting factors in the brain and intestine. Furthermore, the CCK peptide reduced feed intake; however, the presence of an antagonist (Ly225910-CCK1R and devazepide-CCK2R) could reverse this effect through regulating the mRNA levels of anorexigenic and feed-promoting factors in the brain and intestine. Treatment with devazepide + CCK (CCK2R) reversed feed intake more effectively than Ly225910 + CCK (CCK1R) treatment. In summary, cck could regulate the feed intake of largemouth bass through regulating feeding-related genes in the brain and intestine. In addition, cck required binding with the receptor to inhibit feed intake more effectively in largemouth bass, and the binding effect of CCK1R was better than that of CCK2R.
Dendrimers—Novel Therapeutic Approaches for Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Mroziak Magdalena , Kozłowski Gracjan , Kołodziejczyk Weronika , Pszczołowska Magdalena , Walczak Kamil , Beszłej Jan Aleksander , Leszek Jerzy
Published: August 2024

Dendrimers are covalently bonded globular nanostructures that may be used in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Nowadays, AD therapies are focused on improving cognitive functioning and not causal treatment. However, this may change with the use of dendrimers, which are being investigated as a drug-delivery system or as a drug per se. With their ability to inhibit amyloid formation and their anti-tau properties, they are a promising therapeutic option for AD patients. Studies have shown that dendrimers may inhibit amyloid formation in at least two ways: by blocking fibril growth and by breaking already existing fibrils. Neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) are abnormal filaments built by tau proteins that can be accumulated in the cell, which leads to the loss of cytoskeletal microtubules and tubulin-associated proteins. Cationic phosphorus dendrimers, with their anti-tau properties, can induce the aggregation of tau into amorphous structures. Drug delivery to mitochondria is difficult due to poor transport across biological barriers, such as the inner mitochondrial membrane, which is highly negatively polarized. Dendrimers may be potential nanocarriers and increase mitochondria targeting. Another considered use of dendrimers in AD treatment is as a drug-delivery system, for example, carbamazepine (CBZ) or tacrine. They can also be used to transport siRNA into neuronal tissue and to carry antioxidants and anti-inflammatory drugs to act protectively on the nervous system.
The Relationship between Circulating Kidney Injury Molecule-1 and Cardiovascular Morbidity and Mortality in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Sircuța Alexandru Florin , Grosu Iulia Dana , Schiller Adalbert , Petrica Ligia , Ivan Viviana , Schiller Oana , Bodea Madalina , Mircea Monica-Nicoleta , Goleț Ionuţ , Bob Flaviu
Published: August 2024

Background: The importance of identifying mortality biomarkers in chronic kidney disease (CKD), and especially in patients treated with hemodialysis (HD), has become evident. In addition to being a marker of tubulointerstitial injury, plasma kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1) has been mentioned in regard to HD patients as a risk marker for cardiovascular (CV) mortality and coronary artery calcification. The aim of this study was to assess the level of plasma KIM-1 as a marker of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and mortality in CKD5-HD patients (patients with CKD stage G5D treated with hemodialysis). Methods: We conducted a prospective case–control study that included 63 CKD5-HD patients (HD for 1–5 years) followed up for 48 months and a control group consisting of 52 non-dialysis patients diagnosed with CKD stages G1-G5 (ND-CKD). All patients had a CVD baseline assessment including medical history, echocardiography, and electrocardiography (ECG). Circulating plasma KIM-1 levels were determined with single-molecule counting immunoassay technology using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. We obtained the following parameters: serum creatinine and urea; the inflammation markers CRP (C-reactive protein) and IL-6 (interleukin-6); and the anemia markers complete blood count, serum ferritin, and transferrin saturation (TSAT). Results: The mean plasma KIM-1 level was 403.8 ± 546.8 pg/mL, showing a statistically significant correlation with inflammation (CRP, R = 0.28, p = 0.02; IL-6, R = 0.36, p = 0.005) and with anemia (hematocrit, R = −0.5, p = −0.0316; hemoglobin (Hb), R = −0.5, p = 0.02). We found that patients with left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) on echocardiography (59.7%) had significantly lower mean levels of plasma KIM-1 than patients from the control group (155.51 vs. 432.12 pg/mL; p = 0.026). Regarding the patients’ follow-up, we assessed all-cause mortality as an endpoint. After 24 months of follow-up, we found a mortality rate of 22.23%, while after 48 months, the mortality rate was 50.73%. A plasma KIM-1 level < 82.98 pg/mL was significantly associated with decreased survival in hemodialysis patients (p < 0.001). Conclusions: In patients treated with hemodialysis, low levels of plasma KIM-1 were associated with cardiovascular changes and an increased risk of mortality. Plasma KIM-1 levels were significantly higher in HD patients compared to ND-CKD patients.
High Expression of AhR and Environmental Pollution as AhR-Linked Ligands Impact on Oncogenic Signaling Pathways in Western Patients with Gastric Cancer—A Pilot Study
Authors: Perrot-Applanat Martine , Pimpie Cynthia , Vacher Sophie , Pocard Marc , Baud Véronique
Published: August 2024

The vast majority of gastric cancer (GC) cases are adenocarcinomas including intestinal and diffuse GC. The incidence of diffuse GC, often associated with poor overall survival, has constantly increased in Western countries. Epidemiological studies have reported increased mortality from GC after occupational exposure to pro-carcinogens that are metabolically activated by cytochrome P450 enzymes through aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR). However, little is known about the role of AhR and environmental AhR ligands in diffuse GC as compared to intestinal GC in Western patients. In a cohort of 29, we demonstrated a significant increase in AhR protein and mRNA expression levels in GCs independently of their subtypes and clinical parameters. AhR and RHOA mRNA expression were correlated in diffuse GC. Further, our study aimed to characterize in GC how AhR and the AhR-related genes cytochrome P450 1A1 (CYP1A1) and P450 1B1 (CYP1B1) affect the mRNA expression of a panel of genes involved in cancer development and progression. In diffuse GC, CYP1A1 expression correlated with genes involved in IGF signaling, epithelial–mesenchymal transition (Vimentin), and migration (MMP2). Using the poorly differentiated KATO III epithelial cell line, two well-known AhR pollutant ligands, namely 2-3-7-8 tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) and benzo[a]pyrene (BaP), strongly increased the expression of CYP1A1 and Interleukin1β (IL1B), and to a lesser extend UGT1, NQO1, and AhR Repressor (AhRR). Moreover, the increased expression of CYP1B1 was seen in diffuse GC, and IHC staining indicated that CYP1B1 is mainly expressed in stromal cells. TCDD treatment increased CYP1B1 expression in KATO III cells, although at lower levels as compared to CYP1A1. In intestinal GC, CYP1B1 expression is inversely correlated with several cancer-related genes such as IDO1, a gene involved in the early steps of tryptophan metabolism that contributes to the endogenous AhR ligand kynurenine expression. Altogether, our data provide evidence for a major role of AhR in GC, as an environmental xenobiotic receptor, through different mechanisms and pathways in diffuse and intestinal GC. Our results support the continued efforts to clarify the identity of exogenous AhR ligands in diffuse GC in order to define new therapeutic strategies.
Higher Circulating Neutrophil Counts Is Associated with Increased Risk of All-Cause Mortality and Cardiovascular Disease in Patients with Diabetic Kidney Disease
Authors: Xie Ruiyan , Bishai David M. , Lui David T. W. , Lee Paul C. H. , Yap Desmond Y. H.
Published: August 2024

Background: Accumulating evidence has suggested the pathogenic roles of chronic inflammation and neutrophils in diabetic kidney disease (DKD). This study investigated the relationship between neutrophils, all-cause, and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients with DKD. Methods: We used data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES) from 2005 to 2020 to investigate the relationship between circulating neutrophils counts, kidney function indices, all-cause, and CVD mortality in adult T2DM patients with DKD. Clinical predictive models and risk scores for long-term mortality were constructed. Results: 44,332 patients [8034 with T2DM and 36,323 without T2DM] were included. Two thousand two hundred twenty patients had DKD, and 775 died (31.5% related to CVD) during a follow-up of 6.18 (range: 5.94–6.42) years. Higher neutrophil counts (Quartile 4, Q4) were associated with increased all-cause and CVD mortality [HR 1.73 (95% CI 1.34–2.25) and 1.81 (95% CI 1.14–2.89), respectively, p < 0.0001 and 0.01]. Neutrophil counts in Q4 showed a positive correlation with urine albumin-creatinine ratio (UACR) but a negative association with eGFR (p < 0.01 for all). Clinical predictive models incorporating neutrophil counts showed satisfactory performance in forecasting 5-year and 10-year CVD mortality-free survival (ROC AUC 0.824 and 0.842, respectively), and the nomogram-predicted survival demonstrated good concordance with observed survival. Conclusions: Higher levels of circulating neutrophil counts show a significant correlation with renal abnormalities and higher all-cause and CVD mortality in T2DM patients with DKD. The novel clinical predictive models and risk scores incorporating neutrophil counts may facilitate stratification and, hence, risk factor management in DKD patients.
Study on the Diffusion Law of Grouting Slurry at the Pile Tip of Bored Piles in Gravel Pebble Layers
Authors: Li Junhu , Wu Yuping , Wu Chenghui , Zhu Fengpan , Zhao Quanwei , Zhang Gangping , Yan Zihai , Xu Riqing
Published: August 2024

The post-construction improvement technology of bored pile tips has been widely used in the construction of gravel pebble layers, but the diffusion law of the grouting slurry remains to be revealed. To study the diffusion law of the grouting slurry at the tip of bored piles in gravel pebble layers, an equivalent relationship between the seepage continuity equation and the mass diffusion continuity equation was established based on an in-depth comparative analysis; further relying on the Diluted Species Transport Module in Porous Media of Comsol Multiphysics, a three-dimensional numerical model of slurry diffusion was established to systematically study the impact of key factors such as different porosities, grouting times, grouting pressures, slurry diffusion coefficients, and the ratio of vertical to horizontal slurry diffusion coefficients on the diffusion radius of the slurry. The calculation results show that with the continuation of grouting, the increase in porosity, grouting pressure, and slurry diffusion coefficient, or the decrease in the ratio of vertical to horizontal slurry diffusion coefficients, the diffusion range of the slurry increases accordingly. Furthermore, comparatively speaking, the impact of porosity is the smallest, while the impact of the slurry diffusion coefficient is the greatest. The research findings reflect the diffusion trend of the slurry in the gravel pebble layer, which has guiding significance for the quality control of the actual design and construction of grouting.
Research on the Effects of Spatial Forms in Residential Blocks on Road Traffic Noise Distribution in Typical City of China
Authors: Yang Qing , Xia Mengxin , Huang Jiayu
Published: August 2024

Integrating the block system into construction is the current trend in the development of residential areas in China. Road traffic noise is the major noise source in residential blocks, and its relationship with spatial forms of blocks remains unclear. In this study, 852 block models (258 block road network models and 594 models with buildings inside) were established and simulated with SoundPLAN 8.2 software, in order to reveal the impact of spatial forms (road network morphology, neighborhood scale, and architectural texture) on the road traffic noise distribution in residential blocks. Meantime, a prediction model based on spatial morphology parameters is proposed. It was found that (1) Without considering the impact of buildings, both the road network morphology and neighborhood scale parameters have significant effects on the distribution of road traffic noise, but road network morphology has a larger effect than neighborhood scale. (2) In the presence of buildings within the block, architectural texture parameters have effects on the distribution of road traffic noise, but to a lesser extent than road network morphology and neighborhood scale parameters. (3) This research employs principal component analysis to reduce the dimensionality of urban spatial form parameters. Subsequently, a model was developed to predict overall noise exposure levels in residential areas, which was validated by example. This model can be used as a tool for rapid prediction and diagnosis of the block acoustic environment. These findings offer insights for the planning and design of residential blocks from the perspective of optimizing the acoustic environment.
The Flower-Shaped Co (II) and Cu (II) Phthalocyanine Polymers as Highly Efficient and Stable Catalysts for Chemical Fixation of CO2 to Cyclic Carbonate
Authors: Zhou Yuyang , Shao Shengyu , Han Xiang , Zhou Baocheng , Han Yifeng , Dong Xiaoping , Yu Sanchuan
Published: August 2024

New flower-shaped metallophthalocyanine polymers (THB-4-M, M = Co, Cu) have been synthesized by using 1,3,5-Tri(4-hydroxyphenhyl) benzene (THB) as rigid and contorted units to control the morphology under the solvothermal method. The polymers were characterized using FT-IR, UV-vis, SEM, TGA, and XPS. These polymers were applied as heterogeneous catalysts for the chemical fixation of carbon dioxide (CO2) to cyclic carbonates without solvent. The influence of reaction parameters and different metal centers on the catalytic performance were studied in detail. Under optimal conditions, the catalysts showed high conversion (49.9–99.0%), selectivity (over 85%), and reusability at ambient conditions (at 1 bar CO2).
Perioperative Predictive Factors for Tumor Regression and Survival in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients Undergoing Neoadjuvant Treatment and Lung Resection
Authors: Damirov Fuad , Stoleriu Mircea Gabriel , Manapov Farkhad , Boedeker Enole , Dreher Sascha , Gerz Sibylle , Hehr Thomas , Sandner Evelin , Ott German , Hatz Rudolf Alexander , Preissler Gerhard
Published: August 2024

Our study aimed to identify predictors for the effectiveness of tumor regression in lung cancer patients undergoing neoadjuvant treatment and cancer resections. Patients admitted between 2016 and 2022 were included in the study. Based on the histology of the tumor, patients were categorized into a lung adenocarcinoma group (LUAD) and squamous cell carcinoma group (SQCA). Ninety-five patients with non-small-cell lung cancer were included in the study. A total of 58 (61.1%) and 37 (38.9%) patients were included in the LUAD and SQCA groups, respectively. Additionally, 9 (9.5%), 56 (58.9%), and 30 (31.6%) patients were categorized with a tumor regression score of I, II, and III, respectively. In multivariable analyses, histology of the primary tumor (SQCA), lymph node size in the preoperative CT scan (>1.7 cm), and absolute tumor size reduction after neoadjuvant treatment (>2.6 cm) independently predict effectiveness of tumor regression (OR [95% confidence interval, p-value] of 6.88 [2.40–19.77, p < 0.0001], 3.13 [1.11–8.83, p = 0.0310], and 3.76 [1.20–11.81, p = 0.0233], respectively). Age > 70 years, extended resection > one lobe, and tumor recurrence or metastasis were identified as significant independent predictors of reduced overall survival. Assessment of tumor size before and after neoadjuvant treatment might help to identify high-risk patients with decreased survival and to improve patient management and care.
Oxidation in Flow Using an Ionic Immobilized TEMPO Catalyst on an Ion Exchange Resin
Authors: Gmeiner Johannes , Luinstra Gerrit
Published: August 2024

An ionic heterogenized catalyst system for Anelli oxidation has been developed using potassium 4-sulfonato-oxy-2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine-1-yloxyl (TEMPO-4-sulfate) and anion exchange beads as support material. The catalytic oxidation of benzyl alcohol by bis(acetoxy)iodobenzene (BAIB) in acetonitrile with the modified beads gives a 94% yield of benzaldehyde within 60 min (batch operation). The beads give about the same conversion of benzyl alcohol in six consecutive cycles when reused after simple washing, albeit with a somewhat longer half-life time. The TEMPO entity could be removed from the beads using a sodium chloride/sodium hydroxy mixture. Reloading the beads with TEMPO-4-sulfate restored about 80% of their initial catalytic action. This exemplifies that the catalytic activity in a fixed bed can be regained without the need for cleaning and repacking the reactor. Preliminary experiments in a fixed bed show that a constant benzyl alcohol conversion of 84% over 10 residence times (as plug flow) can be achieved by the in-flow execution of the oxidation reaction.
Autologous Fat Grafting—A Panacea for Scar Tissue Therapy?
Authors: Ahmad Nura , Anker Alexandra , Klein Silvan , Dean Jillian , Knoedler Leonard , Remy Katya , Pagani Andrea , Kempa Sally , Terhaag Amraj , Prantl Lukas
Published: August 2024

Scars may represent more than a cosmetic concern for patients; they may impose functional limitations and are frequently associated with the sensation of itching or pain, thus impacting both psychological and physical well-being. From an aesthetic perspective, scars display variances in color, thickness, texture, contour, and their homogeneity, while the functional aspect encompasses considerations of functionality, pliability, and sensory perception. Scars located in critical anatomic areas have the potential to induce profound impairments, including contracture-related mobility restrictions, thereby significantly impacting daily functioning and the quality of life. Conventional approaches to scar management may suffice to a certain extent, yet there are cases where tailored interventions are warranted. Autologous fat grafting emerges as a promising therapeutic avenue in such instances. Fundamental mechanisms underlying scar formation include chronic inflammation, fibrogenesis and dysregulated wound healing, among other contributing factors. These mechanisms can potentially be alleviated through the application of adipose-derived stem cells, which represent the principal cellular component utilized in the process of lipofilling. Adipose-derived stem cells possess the capacity to secrete proangiogenic factors such as fibroblast growth factor, vascular endothelial growth factor and hepatocyte growth factor, as well as neurotrophic factors, such as brain-derived neurotrophic factors. Moreover, they exhibit multipotency, remodel the extracellular matrix, act in a paracrine manner, and exert immunomodulatory effects through cytokine secretion. These molecular processes contribute to neoangiogenesis, the alleviation of chronic inflammation, and the promotion of a conducive milieu for wound healing. Beyond the obvious benefit in restoring volume, the adipose-derived stem cells and their regenerative capacities facilitate a reduction in pain, pruritus, and fibrosis. This review elucidates the regenerative potential of autologous fat grafting and its beneficial and promising effects on both functional and aesthetic outcomes when applied to scar tissue.
Anticancer Activity of Benzo[a]phenoxazine Compounds Promoting Lysosomal Dysfunction
Authors: Ferreira João Carlos Canossa , Gonçalves M. Sameiro T. , Preto Ana , Sousa Maria João
Published: August 2024

Specific cancer therapy remains a problem to be solved. Breast and colorectal cancer are among the cancers with the highest prevalence and mortality rates. Although there are some therapeutic options, there are still few effective agents for those cancers, which constitutes a clinical problem that requires further research efforts. Lysosomes play an important role in cancer cells’ survival, and targeting lysosomes has gained increased interest. In recent years, our team has been synthetizing and testing novel benzo[a]phenoxazine derivatives, as they have been shown to possess potent pharmacological activities. Here, we investigated the anticancer activity of three of the most potent derivatives from our library, C9, A36, and A42, on colorectal- and breast-cancer-derived cell lines, and compared this with the effect on non-neoplastic cell lines. We observed that the three compounds were selective for the cancer cells, namely the RKO colorectal cancer cell line and the MCF7 breast cancer cell line. In both models, the compounds reduced cell proliferation, cell survival, and cell migration, accumulated on the lysosome, and induced cell death accompanied by lysosomal membrane permeabilization (LMP), increasing the intracellular pH and ROS accumulation. Our results demonstrated that these compounds specifically target lysosomes from cancer cells, making them promising candidates as LMP inducers for cancer therapy.
Effect of Culture Temperature on 2-Methylisoborneol Production and Gene Expression in Two Strains of Pseudanabaena sp.
Authors: Park Rumi , Yu Mi-Na , Park Ji-Hyun , Kang Taegu , Lee Jung-Eun
Published: August 2024

The presence of the odorant 2-methylisoborneol (2-MIB) in drinking water sources is undesirable. Although 2-MIB production is known to be influenced by temperature, its regulation at the gene level and its relationship with Chlorophyll-a (Chl-a) at different temperatures remain unclear. This study investigates the impact of temperature on 2-MIB production and related gene expression in Pseudanabaena strains PD34 and PD35 isolated from Lake Paldang, South Korea. The strains were cultured at three temperatures (15, 25, and 30 °C) to examine cell growth, 2-MIB production, and mic gene expression levels. 2-MIB production per cell increased with higher temperatures, whereas mic gene expression levels were higher at lower temperatures, indicating a complex regulatory mechanism involving post-transcriptional and enzyme kinetics factors. Additionally, the relationship between Chl-a and 2-MIB involved in metabolic competition was analyzed, suggesting that high temperatures appear to favor 2-MIB synthesis more than Chl-a synthesis. The distinct difference in the total amount of the two products and the proportion of 2-MIB between the two strains partially explains the variations in 2-MIB production. These findings highlight the significant effect of temperature on 2-MIB biosynthesis in Pseudanabaena and provide a valuable background for gene data-based approaches to manage issues regarding 2-MIB in aquatic environments.
Cell-Specific Effects of Insulin in a Murine Model of Restenosis Under Insulin-Sensitive and Insulin-Resistant Conditions
Authors: Gonzalez Medina Marel , Liu Zhiwei , Wang Johny , Zhang Cindy , Cash Sarah B. , Cummins Carolyn L. , Giacca Adria
Published: August 2024

Restenosis following percutaneous revascularization is a major challenge in patients with insulin resistance and diabetes. Currently, the vascular effects of insulin are not fully understood. In vitro, insulin’s effects on endothelial cells (ECs) are beneficial, whereas on vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs), they are mitogenic. We previously demonstrated a suppressive effect of insulin on neointimal growth under insulin-sensitive conditions that was abolished in insulin-resistant conditions. Here, we aimed to determine the cell-specific effects of insulin on neointimal growth in a model of restenosis under insulin-sensitive and insulin-resistant conditions. Vascular cell-specific insulin receptor (IR)-deficient mice were fed a low-fat diet (LFD) or a high-fat, high-sucrose diet (HFSD) and implanted with an insulin pellet or vehicle prior to femoral artery wire injury. In insulin-sensitive conditions, insulin decreased neointimal growth only in controls. However, under insulin-resistant conditions, insulin had no effect in either control, EC-specific or SMC-specific IR-deficient mice. These data demonstrate that EC and SMC IRs are required for the anti-restenotic effect of insulin in insulin-sensitive conditions and that, in insulin resistance, insulin has no adverse effect on vascular SMCs in vivo.
A Common Climate–Yield Relationship for Wheat and Barley in Japan and the United Kingdom
Authors: Ishikawa Shoko , Nakashima Takahiro , Hare Martin C. , Kettlewell Peter S.
Published: August 2024

Wheat and barley yields in Japan are considerably lower than those in the UK, even where similar Climate Zones (CZs) of relatively cold and humid nature are shared. In order to understand this difference, it is first necessary to find out if any common climate–yield relationship exists between the two countries. The Climate Zonation Scheme (CZS) developed in the Global Yield Gap Atlas (GYGA) was used to analyse actual yield (Ya) with three climatic factors of the GYGA-CZS, i.e., growing degree days (GDD), aridity index (AI) and temperature seasonality (TS). A significant relationship was found between AI scores and Ya values across the two countries. Ya values decreased with an increase in AI scores; in other words, lower yields are associated with higher AI scores. In addition, the degree of yield reduction with the rise in AI scores was greater in Japan than in the UK. The present study also proposed a novel method to link CZs of the GYGA-CZS to regional classification units, especially for countries where statistical crop yield data are available only at a coarse scale.
Correction: Abatal et al. Comparison of Heavy Metals Removal from Aqueous Solution by Moringa oleifera Leaves and Seeds. Coatings 2021, 11, 508
Authors: Abatal Mohamed , Olguin M. T. , Anastopoulos Ioannis , Giannakoudakis Dimitrios A. , Lima Eder Claudio , Vargas Joel , Aguilar Claudia
Published: August 2024

The main goal of the work was to study the Moringa oleifera leaves and seeds as sorbents against Pb(II), Cd(II), Co(II), and Ni(II) from aqueous solutions, to explore the effect of various parameters (such as contact time, biosorbent dosage, and initial concentration of metals) and to determine the adsorption mechanisms [...]
Effects of Nitriding and Thermal Processing on Wear and Corrosion Resistance of Vanadis 8 Steel
Authors: González-Pociño Alejandro , Alvarez-Antolin Florentino , Peral-Martinez Luis Borja
Published: August 2024

Vanadis 8 steel is a tool steel manufactured by powder metallurgic processing. Its main alloy elements are V, Cr and Mo. By implementing an experimental design with five factors—all of them are related to the thermal processing of this steel and with ionic nitriding—the effects of said factors on adhesive wear resistance and corrosion resistance were studied. For this purpose, Pin-on-Disc wear tests and lineal polarization resistance tests were carried out using an aqueous solution with 3.5% NaCl by weight. The main aim was to increase this steel use in more aggressive environmental conditions, such as in coastal environments. By means of XRD, the percentage of retained austenite was determined, and by SEM-EDX, the microstructure was revealed. The conclusion is that adhesive wear resistance is improved if thermal processing parameters are at such levels that increase austenite destabilization and reduce retained austenite content. This means to destabilize austenite at 1180 °C during 1 h, with oil quenching, tempering at 520 °C during 2 h and ionic nitriding at 520 °C during 2 h. Corrosion resistance is highly improved with ionic nitriding. At the same time, to compensate for the negative effect on corrosion resistance of a high density of primary and secondary carbides, it is essential to carry out the ionic nitriding treatment. The harmful effect of electrochemical microcells that appear in the carbide/matrix interface is compensated by the passivating effect generated by the nitrided surface.
Technology and Dielectric Properties of BLT4 Ceramics Modified with Special Glass
Authors: Wodecka-Dus Beata , Makowska Jolanta , Pikula Tomasz , Panek Rafał , Adamczyk-Habrajska Małgorzata , Osińska Katarzyna
Published: August 2024

Lead-boron special glass was doped into Ba0.996La0.004Ti0.999O3 (BLT4) ceramics in order to control the sintering process and grain growth, consequently obtaining materials with a well-developed microstructure. Changes in the microstructure resulted in a significant decrease in electrical permittivity along with a substantial increase in its frequency dispersion. Glass-doped ceramics, similar to pure BLT4, are characterized by a first-order phase transition from the ferroelectric phase to the paraelectric phase. The temperature of this transition shifts slightly towards higher values with the increase in glass dopant concentration.
Machine Learning for Patient-Based Real-Time Quality Control (PBRTQC), Analytical and Preanalytical Error Detection in Clinical Laboratory
Authors: Lorde Nathan , Mahapatra Shivani , Kalaria Tejas
Published: August 2024

The rapidly evolving field of machine learning (ML), along with artificial intelligence in a broad sense, is revolutionising many areas of healthcare, including laboratory medicine. The amalgamation of the fields of ML and patient-based real-time quality control (PBRTQC) processes could improve the traditional PBRTQC and error detection algorithms in the laboratory. This narrative review discusses published studies on using ML for the detection of systematic errors, non-systematic errors, and combinations of different types of errors in clinical laboratories. The studies discussed used ML for detecting bias, the requirement for re-calibration, samples contaminated with intravenous fluid or EDTA, delayed sample analysis, wrong-blood-in-tube errors, interference or a combination of different types of errors, by comparing the performance of ML models with human validators or traditional PBRTQC algorithms. Advantages, limitations, the creation of standardised ML models, ethical and regulatory aspects and potential future developments have also been discussed in brief.
Separating Surface Reflectance from Volume Reflectance in Medical Hyperspectral Imaging
Authors: Jong Lynn-Jade S. , Post Anouk L. , Geldof Freija , Dashtbozorg Behdad , Ruers Theo J. M. , Sterenborg Henricus J. C. M.
Published: August 2024

Hyperspectral imaging has shown great promise for diagnostic applications, particularly in cancer surgery. However, non-bulk tissue-related spectral variations complicate the data analysis. Common techniques, such as standard normal variate normalization, often lead to a loss of amplitude and scattering information. This study investigates a novel approach to address these spectral variations in hyperspectral images of optical phantoms and excised human breast tissue. Our method separates surface and volume reflectance, hypothesizing that spectral variability arises from significant variations in surface reflectance across pixels. An illumination setup was developed to measure samples with a hyperspectral camera from different axial positions but with identical zenith angles. This configuration, combined with a novel data analysis approach, allows for the estimation and separation of surface reflectance for each direction and volume reflectance across all directions. Validated with optical phantoms, our method achieved an 83% reduction in spectral variability. Its functionality was further demonstrated in excised human breast tissue. Our method effectively addresses variations caused by surface reflectance or glare while conserving surface reflectance information, which may enhance sample analysis and evaluation. It benefits samples with unknown refractive index spectra and can be easily adapted and applied across a wide range of fields where hyperspectral imaging is used.
Critical Factors Affecting Outcomes of Endodontic Microsurgery: A Retrospective Japanese Study
Authors: Yamada Masashi , Kasahara Norio , Matsunaga Satoru , Fujii Rie , Miyayoshi Norihito , Sekiya Sayo , Ding Isabel , McCulloch Christopher A.
Published: August 2024

The critically important preoperative and intraoperative factors that affect the success of endodontic microsurgery (EMS) in Japanese patients are not defined. We conducted a retrospective study that analyzed treatment outcomes for 46 teeth in 46 Japanese patients. Treatment was provided between March 2013 and March 2015. All patients were evaluated after one year, the shortest time period over which treatment outcomes after apicoectomy could be evaluated and in which there were complete records for the recruited patient population. Healing was assessed on the basis of clinical symptoms and radiographs. With the use of a binary logistic regression model to quantify success, we estimated the effects of patient age, sex, dental arch, lesion size, lesion type, preoperative root canal treatment, the presence or absence of a post core, and the presence or absence of an isthmus on the surgically prepared dentine surface. The overall success for EMS was 93.5% after one year; failures comprised 6.5%. Successful outcomes were higher (p = 0.04) for maxillary teeth than for mandibular teeth. Success was higher (p = 0.019) for patients who received root canal instrumentation prior to EMS. Age, sex, lesion size, lesion type, the presence or absence of a post core, and the presence or absence of a root canal isthmus had no effect (p > 0.2) on success. We conclude that the percentage of successful outcomes after EMS treatment for Japanese patients presenting with periapical periodontitis is very high after one year and that success is influenced strongly by the dental arch and preoperative root canal instrumentation.
Enhancing Competitiveness: Driving and Facilitating Factors for Industry 4.0 Adoption in Thai Manufacturing
Authors: Intalar Nuchjarin , Ueki Yasushi , Jeenanunta Chawalit
Published: August 2024

Adopting Industry 4.0 (I4.0) is inevitable for Thailand’s manufacturing sector to remain competitive because global markets increasingly demand higher quality, faster delivery, and greater customization. While firms need to enhance productivity and optimize resource utilization, they also need to reduce operation costs, which require advanced technologies and data-driven operations. However, successful adoption requires skilled human resources, which is challenging for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This research explores factors driving and facilitating the implementation of Industry 4.0 (I4.0) in Thai manufacturing firms among SMEs and large firms. We employed qualitative analysis using semi-structured interviews with SMEs and large manufacturing firms in Thailand. Five key factors emerged as crucial for I4.0 adoption: awareness of I4.0, strong and proactive support from top management, self-funding capabilities, and effective human resource development strategies. While large multinational enterprises (MNEs) possess more significant resources and capabilities to adopt I4.0 technologies, SMEs face considerable challenges. They require a strategic approach tailored to their unique needs and resources to develop a feasible I4.0 roadmap. Additionally, governments and industry associations can play a significant role by providing training, funding, and other resources to empower SMEs to embrace I4.0.
Automobile-Demand Forecasting Based on Trend Extrapolation and Causality Analysis
Authors: Zhang Zhengzhu , Chai Haining , Wu Liyan , Zhang Ning , Wu Fenghe
Published: August 2024

Accurate automobile-demand forecasting can provide effective guidance for automobile-manufacturing enterprises in terms of production planning and supply planning. However, automobile sales volume is affected by historical sales volume and other external factors, and it shows strong non-stationarity, nonlinearity, autocorrelation and other complex characteristics. It is difficult to accurately forecast sales volume using traditional models. To solve this problem, a forecasting model combining trend extrapolation and causality analysis is proposed and derived from the historical predictors of sales volume and the influence of external factors. In the trend-extrapolation model, the historical predictors of sales series was captured based on the Seasonal Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (SARIMA) and Polynomial Regression (PR); then, Empirical Mode Decomposition (EMD), a stationarity-test algorithm, and an autocorrelation-test algorithm were introduced to reconstruct the sales sequence into stationary components with strong seasonality and trend components, which reduced the influences of non-stationarity and nonlinearity on the modeling. In the causality-analysis submodel, 31-dimensional feature data were extracted from influencing factors, such as date, macroeconomy, and promotion activities, and a Gradient-Boosting Decision Tree (GBDT) was used to establish the mapping between influencing factors and future sales because of its excellent ability to fit nonlinear relationships. Finally, the forecasting performance of three combination strategies, namely the boosting series, stacking parallel and weighted-average parallel strategies, were tested. Comparative experiments on three groups of sales data showed that the weighted-average parallel combination strategy had the best performance, with loss reductions of 16.81% and 4.68% for data from the number-one brand, 25.60% and 2.79% for data from the number-two brand, and 46.26% and 14.37% for data from the number-three brand compared with the other combination strategies. Other ablation studies and comparative experiments with six basic models proved the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed model.
The Impact of Firefighters’ Emotional Labor on Job Performance: The Moderating Effects of Transactional and Transformational Leadership
Authors: Park Hyeong-Su , Moon Kuk-Kyoung , Ha Tae-Soo
Published: August 2024

Our study leverages insights from the conservation of resources theory and job demands–resources theory to explore the relationship between two types of emotional labor—surface acting and deep acting—and job performance among firefighters. Furthermore, we assess the moderating roles of transactional and transformational leadership within this framework. Using hierarchical multiple regression models, we analyzed data from 1453 firefighters in Gyeonggi-do, South Korea’s most populous province. The findings reveal that surface acting adversely affects job performance, whereas deep acting exerts no significant impact. The relationships between these two types of emotional labor are contingent on transactional and transformational leadership. The policy implications of this study include the need to manage employees’ emotional labor by distinguishing between surface and deep acting as well as the need for efforts and alternatives to facilitate transactional and transformational leadership.
Oscillation of a Liquid Column in an Eccentric Annulus
Authors: Alassar Rajai S.
Published: August 2024

The velocity distribution of flow in an eccentric cylindrical annulus is determined in an attempt to investigate the vertical capillary rise in the channel. The critical values of the radii ratio and the eccentricity at which the capillary rise changes from oscillatory to monotone or vice versa are determined. For a particular aspect ratio, the rise becomes monotonic as the eccentricity increases. The oscillations are also dampened as the annulus becomes thinner. These critical values depend on Galileo and Bond numbers as well as the contact angle. The results reduce to the limiting cases of concentric and fully eccentric annuli. The critical values are also calculated for the special arrangements when the radii ratios are 1 and 0. The latter limit is in perfect agreement with the conditions found in the literature for the classical circular channel.