bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Searching for the Best Machine Learning Algorithm for the Detection of Left Ventricular Hypertrophy from the ECG: A Review
Authors: Rabkin Simon W
Published: May 2024

Background: Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is a powerful predictor of future cardiovascular events. Objectives: The objectives of this study were to conduct a systematic review of machine learning (ML) algorithms for the identification of LVH and compare them with respect to the classical features of test sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, ROC and the traditional ECG criteria for LVH. Methods: A search string was constructed with the operators “left ventricular hypertrophy, electrocardiogram” AND machine learning; then, Medline and PubMed were systematically searched. Results: There were 14 studies that examined the detection of LVH utilizing the ECG and utilized at least one ML approach. ML approaches encompassed support vector machines, logistic regression, Random Forest, GLMNet, Gradient Boosting Machine, XGBoost, AdaBoost, ensemble neural networks, convolutional neural networks, deep neural networks and a back-propagation neural network. Sensitivity ranged from 0.29 to 0.966 and specificity ranged from 0.53 to 0.99. A comparison with the classical ECG criteria for LVH was performed in nine studies. ML algorithms were universally more sensitive than the Cornell voltage, Cornell product, Sokolow-Lyons or Romhilt-Estes criteria. However, none of the ML algorithms had meaningfully better specificity, and four were worse. Many of the ML algorithms included a large number of clinical (age, sex, height, weight), laboratory and detailed ECG waveform data (P, QRS and T wave), making them difficult to utilize in a clinical screening situation. Conclusions: There are over a dozen different ML algorithms for the detection of LVH on a 12-lead ECG that use various ECG signal analyses and/or the inclusion of clinical and laboratory variables. Most improved in terms of sensitivity, but most also failed to outperform specificity compared to the classic ECG criteria. ML algorithms should be compared or tested on the same (standard) database.
Advancing Exoskeleton Development: Validation of a Robotic Surrogate to Measure Tibial Strain
Authors: McGrath Robert L. , Price Ciera A. , Johnson William Brett , Childers Walter Lee
Published: May 2024

Bone stress injuries are prevalent among athletes and military recruits and can significantly compromise training schedules. The development of an ankle–foot orthosis to reduce tibial load and enable a faster return to activity will require new device testing methodologies capable of capturing the contribution of muscular force on tibial strain. Thus, an actuated robotic surrogate leg was developed to explore how tibial strain changes with different ankle–foot orthosis conditions. The purpose of this work was to assess the reliability, scalability, and behavior of the surrogate. A dual actuation system consisting of a Bowden cable and a vertical load applied to the femur via a material testing system, replicated the action-reaction of the Achilles-soleus complex. Maximum and minimum principal strain, maximum shear strain, and axial strain were measured by instrumented strain gauges at five locations on the tibia. Strains were highly repeatable across tests but did not consistently match in vivo data when scaled. However, the stiffness of the ankle–foot orthosis strut did not systematically affect tibial load, which is consistent with in vivo findings. Future work will involve improving the scalability of the results to match in vivo data and using the surrogate to inform exoskeletal designs for bone stress injuries.
New Discovery of Calamitaceae from the Cisuralian in Northwest China: Morphological Evolution of Strobilus
Authors: Wang Xuelian , Miao Yunfa , Ji Yanzhao , Sun Bainian
Published: May 2024

Calamitaceae was the predominant arborescent element of the Late Paleozoic plant assemblages. However, there is currently controversy surrounding the evolutionary relationships of their four reproductive organs, and there is no unified understanding of the geographical distribution and species richness characteristics. This paper is based on the detailed description of the macro- and microstructures of Calamites and Macrostachya discovered in the Shanxi Formation of the Cisuralian in the eastern Hexi Corridor of northwestern China, and it discusses the evolutionary patterns of calamitean reproductive organs. The results indicate that the current specimens can be identified as the Calamites cistii and Macrostachya sp., and the in situ spores should exhibit distinct trilete marks, indicating that they belong to the Punctatisporites punctatus. The abundant fossil records suggest that the “Calamostachys” type should be considered as the ancestral type of strobili. Additionally, Calamitaceae was widely distributed in mid to low latitudes globally from the Pennsylvanian to the Cisuralian and coupled with paleogeographic distribution characteristics.
Evaluation of Mediterranean Tree Leaves as Valuable Biomass of Digestive Enzymes and Bacterial Inhibitors in the Concept of Circular Bioeconomy
Authors: Christou Atalanti , Stavrou Konstantina , Michael Christodoulos , Botsaris George , Goulas Vlasios
Published: May 2024

This study aspires to evaluate the antibacterial and inhibitory effects of carbohydrate digestive enzymes in tree leaves that are widely distributed in the Mediterranean region. Leaves were sequentially extracted with solvents of increasing polarity. The results demonstrated a wide range of phenolic (3.5–770.7 mg gallic acid equivalent g−1) and flavonoid (0.2–321.3 mg catechin equivalent g−1) contents in leaf extracts. The minimum inhibitory and bactericidal concentration of leaf extracts was determined for six bacteria using the broth microdilution method. The polar extracts of carob, lentisk, and white mulberry leaves exerted strong antibacterial potency against Gram-positive bacteria, while the susceptibility of Escherichia coli on relative apolar extracts of carob, fig, and olive leaves was also observed. In parallel, the inhibitory effects of leaf extracts on carbohydrate digestive enzymes were evaluated. A robust inhibition of α-glucosidase was found for carob and lentisk leaf extracts, followed by extracts produced by white mulberry and olive leaves. Carob and lentisk leaves also act as a-amylase inhibitors at high concentrations. Overall, this study provides valuable data for the nutraceutical value of the “forgotten” treasure of Mediterranean tree leaves and assesses these plants as potential sources of antibacterial and carbohydrate digestive enzyme inhibitory agents for drug discovery.
Polymerase I as a Target for Treating Neurodegenerative Disorders
Authors: LeDoux Mark S.
Published: May 2024

Polymerase I (Pol I) is at the epicenter of ribosomal RNA (rRNA) synthesis. Pol I is a target for the treatment of cancer. Given the many cellular commonalities between cancer and neurodegeneration (i.e., different faces of the same coin), it seems rational to consider targeting Pol I or, more generally, rRNA synthesis for the treatment of disorders associated with the death of terminally differentiated neurons. Principally, ribosomes synthesize proteins, and, accordingly, Pol I can be considered the starting point for protein synthesis. Given that cellular accumulation of abnormal proteins such as α-synuclein and tau is an essential feature of neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson disease and fronto-temporal dementia, reduction of protein production is now considered a viable target for treatment of these and closely related neurodegenerative disorders. Abnormalities in polymerase I activity and rRNA production may also be associated with nuclear and nucleolar stress, DNA damage, and childhood-onset neuronal death, as is the case for the UBTF E210K neuroregression syndrome. Moreover, restraining the activity of Pol I may be a viable strategy to slow aging. Before starting down the road of Pol I inhibition for treating non-cancerous disorders of the nervous system, many questions must be answered. First, how much Pol I inhibition can neurons tolerate, and for how long? Should inhibition of Pol I be continuous or pulsed? Will cells compensate for Pol I inhibition by upregulating the number of active rDNAs? At present, we have no effective and safe disease modulatory treatments for Alzheimer disease, α-synucleinopathies, or tauopathies, and novel therapeutic targets and approaches must be explored.
Diabetes and Renal Complications: An Overview on Pathophysiology, Biomarkers and Therapeutic Interventions
Authors: Jha Rajesh , Lopez-Trevino Sara , Kankanamalage Haritha R. , Jha Jay C.
Published: May 2024

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is a major microvascular complication of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. DKD is characterised by injury to both glomerular and tubular compartments, leading to kidney dysfunction over time. It is one of the most common causes of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Persistent high blood glucose levels can damage the small blood vessels in the kidneys, impairing their ability to filter waste and fluids from the blood effectively. Other factors like high blood pressure (hypertension), genetics, and lifestyle habits can also contribute to the development and progression of DKD. The key features of renal complications of diabetes include morphological and functional alterations to renal glomeruli and tubules leading to mesangial expansion, glomerulosclerosis, homogenous thickening of the glomerular basement membrane (GBM), albuminuria, tubulointerstitial fibrosis and progressive decline in renal function. In advanced stages, DKD may require treatments such as dialysis or kidney transplant to sustain life. Therefore, early detection and proactive management of diabetes and its complications are crucial in preventing DKD and preserving kidney function.
Clinical Application of Unidirectional Porous Hydroxyapatite to Bone Tumor Surgery and Other Orthopedic Surgery
Authors: Kunisada Toshiyuki , Nakata Eiji , Fujiwara Tomohiro , Hata Toshiaki , Sato Kohei , Katayama Haruyoshi , Kondo Ayana , Ozaki Toshifumi
Published: May 2024

Unidirectional porous hydroxyapatite (UDPHAp) was developed as a remarkable scaffold characterized by a distinct structure with unidirectional pores oriented in the horizontal direction and connected through interposes. We evaluated the radiographic changes, clinical outcomes, and complications following UDPHAp implantation for the treatment of bone tumors. Excellent bone formation within and around the implant was observed in all patients treated with intralesional resection and UDPHAp implantation for benign bone tumors. The absorption of UDPHAp and remodeling of the bone marrow space was observed in 45% of the patients at a mean of 17 months postoperatively and was significantly more common in younger patients. Preoperative cortical thinning was completely regenerated in 84% of patients at a mean of 10 months postoperatively. No complications related to the implanted UDPHAp were observed. In a pediatric patient with bone sarcoma, when the defect after fibular resection was filled with UDPHAp implants, radiography showed complete resorption of the implant and clear formation of cortex and marrow in the resected part of the fibula. The patient could walk well without crutches and participate in sports activities. UDPHAp is a useful bone graft substitute for the treatment of benign bone tumors, and the use of this material has a low complication rate. We also review and discuss the potential of UDPHAp as a bone graft substitute in the clinical setting of orthopedic surgery.
Update on Chitin and Chitosan from Insects: Sources, Production, Characterization, and Biomedical Applications
Authors: Mei Zhenying , Kuzhir Pavel , Godeau Guilhem
Published: May 2024

Insects, renowned for their abundant and renewable biomass, stand at the forefront of biomimicry-inspired research and offer promising alternatives for chitin and chitosan production considering mounting environmental concerns and the inherent limitations of conventional sources. This comprehensive review provides a meticulous exploration of the current state of insect-derived chitin and chitosan, focusing on their sources, production methods, characterization, physical and chemical properties, and emerging biomedical applications. Abundant insect sources of chitin and chitosan, from the Lepidoptera, Coleoptera, Orthoptera, Hymenoptera, Diptera, Hemiptera, Dictyoptera, Odonata, and Ephemeroptera orders, were comprehensively summarized. A variety of characterization techniques, including spectroscopy, chromatography, and microscopy, were used to reveal their physical and chemical properties like molecular weight, degree of deacetylation, and crystallinity, laying a solid foundation for their wide application, especially for the biomimetic design process. The examination of insect-derived chitin and chitosan extends into a wide realm of biomedical applications, highlighting their unique advantages in wound healing, tissue engineering, drug delivery, and antimicrobial therapies. Their intrinsic biocompatibility and antimicrobial properties position them as promising candidates for innovative solutions in diverse medical interventions.
Advanced Functional Materials for Electrochemical and Biosensors
Authors: Ahmad Khursheed
Published: May 2024

Modern science and technology are central to the smooth running of daily life [...]
Influence of Leaders’ Emotional Labor and Its Perceived Appropriateness on Employees’ Emotional Labor
Authors: Tang Xiuli , Gu Yingkang
Published: May 2024

Emotional labor is a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of effective leadership. To address this, the current study adopts the Emotion as Social Information (EASI) model as a theoretical framework to investigate the influence of leaders’ emotional labor and perceived appropriateness on employees’ emotional labor. A two (leaders’ emotional labor strategies: surface acting vs. deep acting) by two (perceived appropriateness: appropriate vs. inappropriate) between-subjects experiment was designed with a sample of 120 front-line service employees from hotels in Shanghai. The results showed that regardless of whether the perception of a leader’s surface acting was deemed appropriate or not, employees tended to perform surface acting, while the impact of the perceived appropriateness regarding the leader’s deep acting was different, wherein an appropriate display of deep acting by the leader significantly influenced employees to engage in deep acting themselves. The managerial implications and limitations of the findings are also discussed.
The Aesthetic Developmental Characteristics of Contour Features in Children and Adolescents with High- and Low- Level Visual Aesthetic Sensitivity across Grade Levels
Authors: Zhang Ju , Lu Zijia , Wang Yongsheng , Bai Xuejun
Published: May 2024

This study examined the aesthetic developmental characteristics of contour features (curved and sharp corners) among children and adolescents with different levels (high and low) of visual aesthetic sensitivity in three grades (4, 6, and 8). The results revealed that (1) there was a significant main effect of contour features, with children and adolescents liking curved contours and perceiving them as more beautiful than sharp-angled contours; (2) there was a significant interaction with contour features in grades 6 and 4, and there was no significant difference in liking curved contours and perceiving them to be more beautiful between students in grades 6 and 4. However, grade 6 students disliked sharp-angled contours and perceived them as more unattractive than grade 4 students; and (3) there was a significant interaction between the level of visual aesthetic sensitivity and contour features, as children and adolescents with both high and low levels of visual aesthetic sensitivity preferred curved contours and considered them more beautiful. However, children and adolescents with high-level visual aesthetic sensitivity disliked sharp-angled contours and considered them more unattractive compared to students with low-level visual aesthetic sensitivity. The results proposed that children and adolescents preferred curved contours, 6th graders were more sensitive to curved contours than 4th graders, and children and adolescents with high-level visual aesthetic sensitivity were more sensitive to sharp-angled contours than children and adolescents with low-level visual aesthetic sensitivity.
The Impact of Role Models and Mentors on the Mental and Physical Wellbeing of Sexual and Gender Minorities
Authors: Cottle Jason , Drozdik Anna L. , Rimes Katharine A.
Published: May 2024

Sexual and gender minorities (SGMs) experience a higher mental health burden compared to their cisgender, heterosexual counterparts. Role models and mentors are important for wellbeing and development; however, little evidence exists exploring their impact on SGM people. This systematic scoping review identifies their association with mental and physical wellbeing. Eight databases (Medline, Embase, Cochrane CENTRAL, ERIC, Science Citation Index, Scopus, EPub and PsychInfo) were searched for eligible publications from 2000 to 2022. Two researchers identified studies, extracted data, completed quality appraisals using CASP checklists, and grouped data into outcomes relating to role model impact. From 501 citations, 12 studies (n = 1468 SGM people aged 15–63 years) were included. Positive role models and mentors encouraged identity acceptance through destigmatisation and positive affirmation, increased SGMs’ psychological wellbeing through improved psychological safety and self-confidence and improved their sexual health knowledge. Potential role models and mentors displaying negative behaviours could cause stigmatisation, as well as reduce identity acceptance and psychological safety. Information regarding the perceived influence of role models and mentors on substance abuse and other physical health outcomes was limited. SGMs report greater benefits from relationships with others of shared minority status, providing incentives to match mentees with role models and mentors who share or empathise with their experiences of marginalization.
Facing Climate Change in a Temperate European City: Urban-Scale Diagnosis of Indoor Overheating and Adaptation Strategies for Residential Buildings
Authors: Arriazu-Ramos Ainhoa , Pons Izquierdo Juan José , Ramos Ruiz Germán , Sánchez-Ostiz Ana , Monge-Barrio Aurora
Published: May 2024

The rise in outdoor temperatures and heatwaves highlights the limitations of buildings in adapting to warming conditions, even in temperate climates. This paper analyses the indoor overheating of residential dwellings in Pamplona (a city in northern Spain, with a Cfb climate) using an urban-scale diagnostic methodology and presents different envelopes’ retrofitting scenarios as a strategy to reduce it. The results come from energy simulations conducted during an extremely warm summer in 2022, considering the microclimate effects. The residential typologies most vulnerable to overheating are those with only one orientation, built before the EPBD 2002, and located on top floors. These dwellings show a 23.7% mean of indoor overheating hours (IOH), representing approximately 870 h above the EN 16798-1:2019 adaptive threshold from May to September. Renovating building envelopes to meet current energy standards reduces the IOH by an average of 8.6% and up to 15.35% in the most vulnerable typologies. In the retrofitting scenario with green roof systems, indoor temperatures are up to 0.5 °C lower than when roofs are renovated with traditional systems. This study assists policy-makers in preventing the risk of overheating within cities and encourages them to promote nature-based solutions in order to adapt urban residential buildings and cities to warming conditions.
Role of Hypoxia and Rac1 Inhibition in the Metastatic Cascade
Authors: Tátrai Enikő , Ranđelović Ivan , Surguta Sára Eszter , Tóvári József
Published: May 2024

The hypoxic condition has a pivotal role in solid tumors and was shown to correlate with the poor outcome of anticancer treatments. Hypoxia contributes to tumor progression and leads to therapy resistance. Two forms of a hypoxic environment might have relevance in tumor mass formation: chronic and cyclic hypoxia. The main regulators of hypoxia are hypoxia-inducible factors, which regulate the cell survival, proliferation, motility, metabolism, pH, extracellular matrix function, inflammatory cells recruitment and angiogenesis. The metastatic process consists of different steps in which hypoxia-inducible factors can play an important role. Rac1, belonging to small G-proteins, is involved in the metastasis process as one of the key molecules of migration, especially in a hypoxic environment. The effect of hypoxia on the tumor phenotype and the signaling pathways which may interfere with tumor progression are already quite well known. Although the role of Rac1, one of the small G-proteins, in hypoxia remains unclear, predominantly, in vitro studies performed so far confirm that Rac1 inhibition may represent a viable direction for tumor therapy.
The Crosstalk between Nerves and Cancer—A Poorly Understood Phenomenon and New Possibilities
Authors: Benzaquen David , Lawrence Yaacov R. , Taussky Daniel , Zwahlen Daniel , Oehler Christoph , Champion Ambroise
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Crosstalk occurs between nerve and cancer cells. These interactions are important for cancer homeostasis and metabolism. Nerve cells influence the tumor microenvironment (TME) and participate in metastasis through neurogenesis, neural extension, and axonogenesis. We summarized the past and current literature on the interaction between nerves and cancer, with a special focus on pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), prostate cancer (PCa), and the role of the nerve growth factor (NGF) in cancer. Materials/Methods: We reviewed PubMed and Google Scholar for the relevant literature on the relationship between nerves, neurotrophins, and cancer in general and specifically for both PCa and PDAC. Results: The NGF helped sustain cancer cell proliferation and evade immune defense. It is a neuropeptide involved in neurogenic inflammation through the activation of several cells of the immune system by several proinflammatory cytokines. Both PCa and PDAC employ different strategies to evade immune defense. The prostate is richly innervated by both the sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves, which helps in both growth control and homeostasis. Newly formed autonomic nerve fibers grow into cancer cells and contribute to cancer initiation and progression through the activation of β-adrenergic and muscarinic cholinergic signaling. Surgical or chemical sympathectomy prevents the development of prostate cancer. Beta-blockers have a high therapeutic potential for cancer, although current clinical data have been contradictory. With a better understanding of the beta-receptors, one could identify specific receptors that could have an effect on prostate cancer development or act as therapeutic agents. Conclusion: The bidirectional crosstalk between the nervous system and cancer cells has emerged as a crucial regulator of cancer and its microenvironment. Denervation has been shown to be promising in vitro and in animal models. Additionally, there is a potential relationship between cancer and psychosocial biology through neurotransmitters and neurotrophins.
Integrating Imaging and Circulating Tumor DNA Features for Predicting Patient Outcomes
Authors: Magbanua Mark Jesus M. , Li Wen , van ’t Veer Laura J.
Published: May 2024

Biomarkers for evaluating tumor response to therapy and estimating the risk of disease relapse represent tremendous areas of clinical need. To evaluate treatment efficacy, tumor response is routinely assessed using different imaging modalities like positron emission tomography/computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging. More recently, the development of circulating tumor DNA detection assays has provided a minimally invasive approach to evaluate tumor response and prognosis through a blood test (liquid biopsy). Integrating imaging- and circulating tumor DNA-based biomarkers may lead to improvements in the prediction of patient outcomes. For this mini-review, we searched the scientific literature to find original articles that combined quantitative imaging and circulating tumor DNA biomarkers to build prediction models. Seven studies reported building prognostic models to predict distant recurrence-free, progression-free, or overall survival. Three discussed building models to predict treatment response using tumor volume, pathologic complete response, or objective response as endpoints. The limited number of articles and the modest cohort sizes reported in these studies attest to the infancy of this field of study. Nonetheless, these studies demonstrate the feasibility of developing multivariable response-predictive and prognostic models using regression and machine learning approaches. Larger studies are warranted to facilitate the building of highly accurate response-predictive and prognostic models that are generalizable to other datasets and clinical settings.
Circulating Tumor DNA as a Complementary Prognostic Biomarker during CAR-T Therapy in B-Cell Non-Hodgkin Lymphomas
Authors: Monick Sarah , Rosenthal Allison
Published: May 2024

The emergence of CD19-directed chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy has revolutionized the treatment paradigm for R/R B-cell NHLs. However, challenges persist in accurately evaluating treatment response and detecting early relapse, necessitating the exploration of novel biomarkers. Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) via liquid biopsy is a non-invasive tool for monitoring therapy efficacy and predicting treatment outcomes in B-NHL following CAR-T therapy. By overcoming the limitations of conventional imaging modalities, ctDNA assessments offer valuable insights into response dynamics, molecular mechanisms of resistance, and early detection of molecular relapse. Integration of ctDNA monitoring into clinical practice holds promise for personalized therapeutic strategies, guiding the development of novel targeted therapies, and enhancing patient outcomes. However, standardization of assay methodologies and consensus on clinical response metrics are imperative to unlock the full potential of ctDNA in the management of B-NHL. Prospective validation of ctDNA in clinical trials is necessary to establish its role as a complementary decision aid.
Health-Related Quality of Life and Return to Work after Surgery for Spinal Schwannoma: A Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Singh Aman , von Vogelsang Ann-Christin , El-Hajj Victor Gabriel , Buwaider Ali , Fletcher-Sandersjöö Alexander , Pettersson-Segerlind Jenny , Edström Erik , Elmi-Terander Adrian
Published: May 2024

Spinal schwannomas are the second most common primary intradural spinal tumor. This study aimed to assess health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and the frequency of return to work after the surgical treatment of spinal schwannomas. HRQoL was compared to a sample of the general population. Patients operated for spinal schwannomas between 2006 and 2020 were identified in a previous study and those alive at follow-up (171 of 180) were asked to participate. Ninety-four (56%) responded and were included in this study. Data were compared to the Stockholm Public Health Survey 2006, a cross-sectional survey of a representative sample of the general population. An analysis for any potential non-response bias was performed and showed no significant differences between the groups. HRQoL was equal between the spinal schwannoma sample and the general population sample in all but one dimension; men in the spinal schwannoma sample reported more moderate problems in the usual activities dimension than men in the general population (p = 0.020). In the schwannoma sample, there were no significant differences between men and women in either of the dimensions EQ-5Dindex or EQVAS. Before surgery, a total of 71 (76%) were working full-time and after surgery almost all (94%) returned to work, most of them within 3 months of surgery. Eighty-nine (95%) of the patients responded that they would accept the surgery for their spinal schwannoma if asked again today. To conclude, surgical treatment of spinal schwannomas is associated with good HRQoL and with a high frequency of return to work.
Identifying Key Regulatory Genes in Drug Resistance Acquisition: Modeling Pseudotime Trajectories of Breast Cancer Single-Cell Transcriptome
Authors: Iida Keita , Okada Mariko
Published: May 2024

Single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) technology has provided significant insights into cancer drug resistance at the single-cell level. However, understanding dynamic cell transitions at the molecular systems level remains limited, requiring a systems biology approach. We present an approach that combines mathematical modeling with a pseudotime analysis using time-series scRNA-seq data obtained from the breast cancer cell line MCF-7 treated with tamoxifen. Our single-cell analysis identified five distinct subpopulations, including tamoxifen-sensitive and -resistant groups. Using a single-gene mathematical model, we discovered approximately 560–680 genes out of 6000 exhibiting multistable expression states in each subpopulation, including key estrogen-receptor-positive breast cancer cell survival genes, such as RPS6KB1. A bifurcation analysis elucidated their regulatory mechanisms, and we mapped these genes into a molecular network associated with cell survival and metastasis-related pathways. Our modeling approach comprehensively identifies key regulatory genes for drug resistance acquisition, enhancing our understanding of potential drug targets in breast cancer.
TIM-3 Expression on Dendritic Cells in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Sakuma Mei , Katagata Masanori , Okayama Hirokazu , Nakajima Shotaro , Saito Katsuharu , Sato Takahiro , Fukai Satoshi , Tsumuraya Hideaki , Onozawa Hisashi , Sakamoto Wataru , Saito Motonobu , Saze Zenichiro , Momma Tomoyuki , Mimura Kosaku , Kono Koji
Published: May 2024

TIM-3 was originally identified as a negative regulator of helper T cells and is expressed on dendritic cells (DCs). Since the inhibition of TIM-3 on DCs has been suggested to enhance T cell-mediated anti-tumor immunity, we examined its expression on DCs within the tumor microenvironment (TME) in colorectal cancer (CRC) using transcriptomic data from a public database (n = 592) and immunohistochemical evaluations from our cohorts of CRC (n = 115). The expression of TIM-3 on DCs in vitro was examined by flow cytometry, while the expression of its related molecules, cGAS and STING, on immature and mature DCs was assessed by Western blotting. The expression of HAVCR2 (TIM-3) was strongly associated with the infiltration of DCs within the TME of CRC. Immunohistochemical staining of clinical tissue samples revealed that tumor-infiltrating DCs expressed TIM-3; however, their number at the tumor-invasive front significantly decreased with stage progression. TIM-3 expression was higher on immature DCs than on mature DCs from several different donors (n = 6). Western blot analyses showed that the expression of STING was higher on mature DCs than on immature DCs, which was opposite to that of TIM-3. We demonstrated that TIM-3 was highly expressed on tumor-infiltrating DCs of CRC and that its expression was higher on immature DCs than on mature DCs.
The Role of Glial Cells in Neurobiology and Prion Neuropathology
Authors: Hay Arielle , Popichak Katriana , Moreno Julie , Zabel Mark
Published: May 2024

Prion diseases are rare and neurodegenerative diseases that are characterized by the misfolding and infectious spread of the prion protein in the brain, causing progressive and irreversible neuronal loss and associated clinical and behavioral manifestations in humans and animals, ultimately leading to death. The brain has a complex network of neurons and glial cells whose crosstalk is critical for function and homeostasis. Although it is established that prion infection of neurons is necessary for clinical disease to occur, debate remains in the field as to the role played by glial cells, namely astrocytes and microglia, and whether these cells are beneficial to the host or further accelerate disease. Here, we review the current literature assessing the complex morphologies of astrocytes and microglia, and the crosstalk between these two cell types, in the prion-infected brain.
Abnormal Morphology and Synaptogenic Signaling in Astrocytes Following Prenatal Opioid Exposure
Authors: Niebergall Ethan B. , Weekley Daron , Mazur Anna , Olszewski Nathan A. , DeSchepper Kayla M. , Radant N. , Vijay Aishwarya S. , Risher W. Christopher
Published: May 2024

In recent decades, there has been a dramatic rise in the rates of children being born after in utero exposure to drugs of abuse, particularly opioids. Opioids have been shown to have detrimental effects on neurons and glia in the central nervous system (CNS), but the impact of prenatal opioid exposure (POE) on still-developing synaptic circuitry is largely unknown. Astrocytes exert a powerful influence on synaptic development, secreting factors to either promote or inhibit synapse formation and neuronal maturation in the developing CNS. Here, we investigated the effects of the partial µ-opioid receptor agonist buprenorphine on astrocyte synaptogenic signaling and morphological development in cortical cell culture. Acute buprenorphine treatment had no effect on the excitatory synapse number in astrocyte-free neuron cultures. In conditions where neurons shared culture media with astrocytes, buprenorphine attenuated the synaptogenic capabilities of astrocyte-secreted factors. Neurons cultured from drug-naïve mice showed no change in synapses when treated with factors secreted by astrocytes from POE mice. However, this same treatment was synaptogenic when applied to neurons from POE mice, indicating a complex neuroadaptive response in the event of impaired astrocyte signaling. In addition to promoting morphological and connectivity changes in neurons, POE exerted a strong influence on astrocyte development, disrupting their structural maturation and promoting the accumulation of lipid droplets (LDs), suggestive of a maladaptive stress response in the developing CNS.
Reaction of β-Nitrostyrene with Diethyl Malonate in the Presence of Bispidines: The Unusual Role of the Organocatalyst
Authors: Dalinger Alexander I. , Mamedova Sabina F. , Burykina Julia V. , Pentsak Evgeniy O. , Vatsadze Sergey Z.
Published: May 2024

The aim of this work was the investigation of novel organocatalysts for the Michael addition of diethyl malonate to β-nitrostyrene. The methodology of the study included NMR titration, reaction monitoring by NMR spectroscopy and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS), product characterization by MALDI, IR spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), and elemental analysis. As a result, evidence of supramolecular interactions between two pairs of components of the reaction was found. In addition to the supramolecular complexes, an unusual reaction, i.e., the Michael addition of NH-bispidines to β-nitrostyrene, was found, which led to previously unknown oligomers of β-nitrostyrene. A new mechanism for the catalytic action of NH-bispidine was proposed, which involved catalysis not by the initial organocatalyst but rather by its adduct with β-nitrostyrene. Thus, in this reaction, N-benzylbispidine acted as an initiator, and the real catalyst was the betaine formed during the initiation stage.
A Review on Fundamentals of Noise-Shaping SAR ADCs and Design Considerations
Authors: Arzate-Palma Victor H. , Rivera-Orozco David G. , Molina Salgado Gerardo , Sandoval-Ibarra Federico
Published: May 2024

A general overview of Noise-Shaping Successive Approximation Register (SAR) analog-to-digital converters is provided, encompassing the fundamentals, operational principles, and key architectures of Noise-Shaping SAR (NS SAR). Key challenges, including inherent errors in processing circuits, are examined, along with current advancements in architecture design. Various issues, such as loop filter optimization, implementation methods, and DAC network element mismatches, are explored, along with considerations for voltage converter performance. The design of dynamic comparators is examined, highlighting their critical role in the SAR ADC architecture. Various architectures of dynamic comparators are extensively explored, including optimization techniques, performance considerations, and emerging trends. Finally, emerging trends and future challenges in the field are discussed.
Water Treatment with Clean Technologies Using Moringa oleifera Seeds in Alternative Low-Cost Clarification Units
Authors: Silva Jéssica R. , Oliveira Danieli S.
Published: May 2024

Water is an essential element for human survival, yet many individuals still lack access to treated water to meet their basic needs. To mitigate this situation, alternative water treatment technologies that are accessible and easy to handle are being explored. Among these, the use of Moringa oleifera seeds as a natural coagulant and the application of a helically coiled tube as a flocculation unit have been studied. In this context, this study aimed to evaluate the turbidity removal efficiency using two different coagulants (Moringa oleifera and aluminum sulfate) in an alternative water clarification system. The system consists of a helically coiled tube flocculator (HCTF) coupled with a conventional decantation unit. It was observed that the coagulant solution from shelled seeds required a lower dosage to achieve efficiencies above 90% compared to the coagulant solution from seeds with shells. The optimal dosage was 30 mL/L of the coagulant solution from shelled seeds. This dosage resulted in high turbidity-removal efficiencies, ranging from 92% to 100%. The processing method of the seeds that yielded the highest efficiency in turbidity removal was the mortar and pestle, as opposed to a blender. The optimal configuration of the alternative water clarification system comprised using the lower HCTF in a horizontal orientation. The use of the alternative water clarification system, along with the natural coagulant, proves to be a promising alternative clean technology for water clarification in locations without access to conventional treatment, being efficient in turbidity removal.
Magnetron-Sputtered Long-Term Superhydrophilic Thin Films for Use in Solid-State Cooling Devices
Authors: Barrera Maria , Zywitzki Olaf , Modes Thomas , Fietzke Fred
Published: May 2024

Pulse-magnetron-sputtered long-term superhydrophilic coatings have been synthesized to functionalize the surfaces of solid-state cooling devices, e.g., electrocaloric heat pumps, where not only a complete wetting of the surface by a fluid is intended, but also fast wetting and dewetting processes are required. The coatings consist of a (Ti,Si)O2 outer layer that provides lasting hydrophilicity thanks to the mesoporous structure, followed by an intermediate WO3 film that enables the reactivation of the wettability through visible light irradiation, and a W underlayer which can work as a top electrode of the electrocaloric components thanks to its suitable electrical and thermal conductivity properties. Process parameter optimization for each layer of the stack as well as the influence of the microstructure and composition on the wetting properties are presented. Finally, water contact angle measurements, surface energy evaluations, and a contact line dynamics assessment of evaporating drops on the coatings demonstrate that their enhanced wetting performance is attributed not only to their intrinsic hydrophilic nature but also to their porous microstructure, which promotes wicking and spreading at the nanometric scale.
Precise Analysis of the Differences in the Laser-Activated Energy Density of Aluminum Nitride Ceramics under Various Gas Bath Environments
Authors: Zhang Haitao , Wang Yingming , Shao Jing , Dong Hao , Sun Zhiyuan , Han Suli , Xie Changqing , Song Ping , Sun Shufeng , Nie Zhenwei
Published: May 2024

Laser activation can lead to the formation of a layer of aluminum on the surface of aluminum nitride ceramics, thereby preparing metal circuits. Under various gas environments, there are differences in the aluminum layers precipitated by laser-activated aluminum nitride ceramics. The existing literature uses the width of the metal layer to characterize this difference, and these data are very imprecise. Usually, laser energy density is used to describe this processing difference. However, the existing concept of laser energy density is an average value and is not suitable for the threshold of laser activation, because the intensity gradient of the focused Gaussian beam is large, and different intensity distributions represent different energy levels. This article applied a precise concept of laser energy density that sees it as being proportional to light intensity and can be used to evaluate the difference in laser energy density required for the decomposition of aluminum nitride ceramics under various gas bath conditions precisely. Due to the strong energy of a focused Gaussian beam, it is not possible to directly obtain the intensity distribution. Here, the intensity distribution of the collimated beam was used to indirectly obtain the intensity distribution of the focused Gaussian beam, and the threshold values for laser activation under different gas baths were calculated. It was found that the minimum energy density in air increased by 12.5%, and the minimum energy density in nitrogen increased by 3%, using the minimum energy density required for laser activation in argon as the reference.
Intraplatelet Calcium Signaling Regulates Thrombus Growth under Flow: Insights from a Multiscale Model
Authors: Bouchnita Anass , Volpert Vitaly
Published: May 2024

In injured arteries, platelets adhere to the subendothelium and initiate the coagulation process. They recruit other platelets and form a plug that stops blood leakage. The formation of the platelet plug depends on platelet activation, a process that is regulated by intracellular calcium signaling. Using an improved version of a previous multiscale model, we study the effects of changes in calcium signaling on thrombus growth. This model utilizes the immersed boundary method to capture the interplay between platelets and the flow. Each platelet can attach to other platelets, become activated, express proteins on its surface, detach, and/or become non-adhesive. Platelet activation is captured through a specific calcium signaling model that is solved at the intracellular level, which considers calcium activation by agonists and contacts. Simulations reveal a contact-dependent activation threshold necessary for the formation of the thrombus core. Next, we evaluate the effect of knocking out the P2Y and PAR receptor families. Further, we show that blocking P2Y receptors reduces platelet numbers in the shell while slightly increasing the core size. An analysis of the contribution of P2Y and PAR activation to intraplatelet calcium signaling reveals that each of the ADP and thrombin agonists promotes the activation of platelets in different regions of the thrombus. Finally, the model predicts that the heterogeneity in platelet size reduces the overall number of platelets recruited by the thrombus. The presented framework can be readily used to study the effect of antiplatelet therapy under different physiological and pathological blood flow, platelet count, and activation conditions.
Unveiling AI-Generated Financial Text: A Computational Approach Using Natural Language Processing and Generative Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Arshed Muhammad Asad , Gherghina Ștefan Cristian , Dewi Christine , Iqbal Asma , Mumtaz Shahzad
Published: May 2024

This study is an in-depth exploration of the nascent field of Natural Language Processing (NLP) and generative Artificial Intelligence (AI), and it concentrates on the vital task of distinguishing between human-generated text and content that has been produced by AI models. Particularly, this research pioneers the identification of financial text derived from AI models such as ChatGPT and paraphrasing tools like QuillBot. While our primary focus is on financial content, we have also pinpointed texts generated by paragraph rewriting tools and utilized ChatGPT for various contexts this multiclass identification was missing in previous studies. In this paper, we use a comprehensive feature extraction methodology that combines TF–IDF with Word2Vec, along with individual feature extraction methods. Importantly, combining a Random Forest model with Word2Vec results in impressive outcomes. Moreover, this study investigates the significance of the window size parameters in the Word2Vec approach, revealing that a window size of one produces outstanding scores across various metrics, including accuracy, precision, recall and the F1 measure, all reaching a notable value of 0.74. In addition to this, our developed model performs well in classification, attaining AUC values of 0.94 for the ‘GPT’ class; 0.77 for the ‘Quil’ class; and 0.89 for the ‘Real’ class. We also achieved an accuracy of 0.72, precision of 0.71, recall of 0.72, and F1 of 0.71 for our extended prepared dataset. This study contributes significantly to the evolving landscape of AI text identification, providing valuable insights and promising directions for future research.
The Effect of Ficus semicordata Fig Quality on the Sex Ratio of Its Pollinating Wasp Ceratosolen gravelyi
Authors: Yang Xiaoyan , Guan Yunfang , Chen Changqi , Zhang Ying , Yuan Yulin , Tang Tiantian , Li Zongbo , Zhang Yuan
Published: May 2024

The interaction between fig wasps and their host fig trees (Ficus spp.) is a striking example of an obligate pollination mutualism. Male and female fig wasps are confined within their natal patch instead of panmictic; under this circumstance, mating only occurs between individuals of the same patch. This is known as a local mate competition (LMC). It pays foundresses to invest mainly in daughters and to only produce enough sons to ensure that all female offspring can be fertilized, but in nature, pollinating fig wasps may face many problems with host quality, such as limitation of oviposition sites and the nutrition deficiency of the host fig. The sex ratio of wasps can determine the stability of fig–fig wasp mutualistic system and, thus, the stability of other species associated with it. In this study, we controlled the quality of host figs in three ways. The results showed that the host fig age can influence the sex ratio of pollinator offspring, while the foundress numbers and the presence of pollen have no significant effect on it. A compelling explanation for this result is that the sex-dependent mortality occurs. This is a novel finding of how host quality influences the interaction of fig and fig wasps, which can also help us understand the evolution and stability mechanism of this symbiotic system.
Monitoring the Center of Gravity of a Vehicle Seat to Detect the Occupant Position
Authors: Vergnano Alberto , Giorgianni Claudio , Leali Francesco
Published: May 2024

Deploying an airbag when a vehicle occupant is too close to it can cause injury. An adaptive Airbag Control Unit (ACU) would improve the effectiveness of the safety system, provided it is aware of the actual position of the occupants once the crash is going to occur. Occupants can be monitored with vision-based and radar-based sensing in the vehicle, but the research question is whether other reliable devices exist. In this research, a real seat is equipped with four sensors in the supports from the floor, as well as an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) and a microcontroller. The device is capable of identifying correct position or different Out of Position (OP) conditions and inform an adaptive ACU. The paper presents the seat layout in detail and its testing in extensive driving experiments with multiple participants. Depending on the position of the driver, the identification is correct 45–100% of the time. Monitoring the occupant position by a sensorized seat is feasible and can improve the reliability of the onboard safety system when integrated with other occupant monitoring devices.