bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diffraction by a Semi-Infinite Parallel-Plate Waveguide with Five-Layer Material Loading: The Case of H-Polarization
Authors: He Kewen , Kobayashi Kazuya
Published: March 2023

In this paper, the plane wave diffraction from a semi-infinite parallel-plate waveguide with five-layer material loading is rigorously analyzed for H-polarization using the Wiener–Hopf technique. The Fourier transform of the scattered field is introduced and boundary conditions are applied in the transform domain to formulate the problem as simultaneous Wiener–Hopf equations, which are solved by the factorization and decomposition procedure leading to exact and approximate solutions. The scattered field in real space is explicitly derived by taking the Fourier inverse of the solution in the transform domain. For the region inside the waveguide, the scattered field is represented by the waveguide TM modes, and the field outside the waveguide is evaluated asymptotically by applying the saddle-point method to obtain a far-field expression. Numerical examples of the radar cross section (RCS) for various physical parameters are presented, and far-field scattering characteristics of the waveguide are discussed in detail.
Application of Support Vector Machine Algorithm Incorporating Slime Mould Algorithm Strategy in Ancient Glass Classification
Authors: Guo Yuheng , Zhan Wei , Li Weihao
Published: March 2023

Glass products are important evidence of early East–West cultural exchanges. Ancient glass in China mostly consisted of lead glass, and potassium glass is widely believed to be imported abroad. In order to figure out the origin of glass artefacts, it is crucial to define the type of glass products accurately. In contemporary research on the chemical composition of ancient glass products, potassium glass is separated from lead glass primarily by the weight ratio of oxides or the proportion of lead-containing compounds. This approach can be excessively subjective and prone to mistakes while calculating the mass fraction of compounds containing potassium. So, it is better to find out the link between the proportion of glass’s chemical composition and its classifications during the weathering process of the glass products, to develop an effective classification model using machine learning techniques. In this research, we suggest employing the slime mould approach to optimise the parameters of a support vector machine and examine a 69-group glass chemical composition dataset. In addition, the results of the proposed algorithm are compared to those of commonly used classification models: decision trees (DT), random forests (RF), support vector machines (SVM), and support vector machines optimised by genetic algorithms (GA-SVM). The results of this research indicated that the support vector machine method with the sticky slime mould algorithm strategy is the most effective. On the training set, 100% accuracy was attained, while on the test set, 97.50% accuracy was attained in this research. The research results demonstrate that the support vector machine algorithm combining the slime mould algorithm strategy is capable of providing a trustworthy classification reference for future glass artefacts.
Flow Analysis of a Novel, Three-Way Cartridge Flow Control Valve
Authors: Lisowski Edward , Filo Grzegorz , Pluskowski Piotr , Rajda Janusz
Published: March 2023

Flow control valves are designed to maintain a constant flow rate regardless of pressure changes. However, standard, two-way design may cause significant energy losses due to the need to maintain high pressure in the supply line. In contrast, the proposed three-way valve allows the required flow rate to be obtained at a supply pressure slightly above the loading pressure. This work included building mathematical and simulation models, conducting numerical simulations in Ansys/Fluent and Matlab/Simulink environments, and verifying the results by initial test bench experiments on a valve prototype. The main contribution provided by the work concerns the proposal of a new valve solution and the estimation of its operational characteristics.
Poetry in Pandemic: A Multimodal Neuroaesthetic Study on the Emotional Reaction to the Divina Commedia Poem
Authors: Inguscio Bianca Maria Serena , Cartocci Giulia , Palmieri Simone , Menicocci Stefano , Vozzi Alessia , Giorgi Andrea , Ferrara Silvia , Canettieri Paolo , Babiloni Fabio
Published: March 2023

Poetry elicits emotions, and emotion is a fundamental component of human ontogeny. Although neuroaesthetics is a rapidly developing field of research, few studies focus on poetry, and none address its different modalities of fruition (MOF) of universal cultural heritage works, such as the Divina Commedia (DC) poem. Moreover, alexithymia (AX) resulted in being a psychological risk factor during the Covid-19 pandemic. The present study aims to investigate the emotional response to poetry excerpts from different cantica (Inferno, Purgatorio, Paradiso) of DC with the dual objective of assessing the impact of both the structure of the poem and MOF and that of the characteristics of the acting voice in experts and non-experts, also considering AX. Online emotion facial coding biosignal (BS) techniques, self-reported and psychometric measures were applied to 131 literary (LS) and scientific (SS) university students. BS results show that LS globally manifest more JOY than SS in both reading and listening MOF and more FEAR towards Inferno. Furthermore, LS and SS present different results regarding NEUTRAL emotion about acting voice. AX influences listening in NEUTRAL and SURPRISE expressions. DC’s structure affects DISGUST and SADNESS during listening, regardless of participant characteristics. PLEASANTNESS varies according to DC’s structure and the acting voice, as well as AROUSAL, which is also correlated with AX. Results are discussed in light of recent findings in affective neuroscience and neuroaesthetics, suggesting the critical role of poetry and listening in supporting human emotional processing.
One-Dimensional Nonlinear Consolidation for Soft Clays with Continuous Drainage Boundary Considering Non-Darcy Flow
Authors: Wu Jin , Xi Ruichen , Liang Rongzhu , Zong Mengfan , Wu Wenbing
Published: March 2023

Adopting the non-Darcy flow presented by Hansbo and considering the nonlinear compression and permeability characteristics of soils, the one-dimensional nonlinear consolidation problem of soft clays is investigated by means of a continuous drainage boundary. The numerical solutions of average consolidation degrees defined by settlement and excess pore water pressure are derived by using the finite difference method, and the correctness of these solutions is verified by comparing them with existing analytical and numerical solutions. Based on the proposed solutions, a parametric study is conducted to study the influence of interface parameter, non-Darcy flow parameter and soil nonlinearity on the consolidation behavior of soft clays. The results show that the solutions based on the continuous drainage boundary can be degenerated into the solutions based on the Terzaghi drainage boundary if the interface parameter is taken as a reasonable value. The soil consolidation behavior considering both non-Darcy seepage and nonlinear characteristics of soil is very complex.
Reliability Optimization Design of Diesel Engine System Based on the GO Method
Authors: Cui Yuhang , Mu Huina , Yi Xiaojian , Wei Shijie
Published: March 2023

A reliability optimization design method based on the goal-oriented (GO) method is proposed in this study to tackle the problem of engine reliability optimization design. This proposed method considers a V-type diesel engine as the research object. Firstly, the reliability modeling and evaluation of diesel engines are conducted by the GO method. Secondly, the functional reliability is assigned according to the difference in diesel engine function. Finally, a three-objective diesel reliability optimization design model is constructed with the optimization objectives of maximizing robustness and reliability and minimizing cost. Then, an NSGA-II-PSO hybrid algorithm based on the GO method is designed to handle the problem, and the design interval of unit reliability is obtained. The results of the case study demonstrate that this method not only meets the requirements of reliability design but also achieves the purpose of reliability optimization design, providing a reference for other types of equipment.
Functional Electrostimulation in Patients Affected by the Most Frequent Central Motor Neuron Disorders—A Scoping Review
Authors: Roman Nadinne Alexandra , Tuchel Vlad Ionut , Nicolau Cristina , Grigorescu Ovidiu-Dan , Necula Radu
Published: March 2023

Post-stroke sequelae, spinal cord injury and multiple sclerosis are the most common and disabling diseases of upper motor neurons. These diseases cause functional limitations and prevent patients from performing activities of daily living. This review aims to identify the potential of functional electrical stimulation (FES) for locomotor rehabilitation and daily use in upper motor neuron diseases. A systematic search was conducted. For the search strategy, MeSH terms such as “stroke”, “functional electrical stimulus*” and “FES”, “post-stroke”, “multiple sclerosis”, and “spinal cord injury*” were used. Of the 2228 papers from the raw search results, 14 articles were analyzed after inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied. Only four articles were randomized clinical trials, but with low numbers of participants. RehaMove, Microstim and STIWELL were reported in three independent studies, whereas Odstock was used in four articles. The results of the studies were very heterogeneous, although for lower extremity stimulation (11 out of 14 papers), walking speed was reported only in 6. Berg Balance Scale, Timed Up and Go, Functional Ambulation Category, 6-Minute Walk Test, 10-Meter Walk Test, Fugl-Meyer Assessment, Motricity Index and Action Research Arm Test were reported for functional assessment. For clinical assessment, the Modified Barthel Index, the Rivermead Mobility Index and the Stroke Impact Scale were used. Four studies were spread over 6 months, two investigated the effects of FES during one session, and the other eight were conducted for 3 to 8 weeks. Improvements were reported related to gait speed, functional ambulation, hand agility and range of motion. FES can be considered for large-scale use as a neuroprosthesis in upper neuron motor syndromes, especially in patients with impaired gait patterns. Further research should focus on the duration of the studies and the homogeneity of the reported results and assessment scales, but also on improvements to devices, accessibility and quality of life.
Phoenician Pottery in the Western Mediterranean: A New Perspective Based on the Early Iron Age (800–550 BC) Settlement of Sant Jaume (Alcanar, Catalonia)
Authors: Miguel Gascón Eva , Buxeda i Garrigós Jaume , Day Peter M. , Garcia i Rubert David
Published: March 2023

One of the most important reception sites for Phoenician pottery imports in the NE Iberian Peninsula is the Early Iron Age (800–550 BC) settlement of Sant Jaume. This site is exceptional in terms of preservation and the large number of complete vessels recovered. Moreover, the ceramic assemblage comprises one of the best collections of the earliest wheel-thrown pottery that is considered evidence of trade from the western Phoenician colonies and their specific interest in exploiting metallurgical resources. In this research, a sample of 58 individuals of wheel-thrown pottery has been analysed by X-ray fluorescence (XRF), X-ray diffraction (XRD), petrography (PE), and scanning electron microscopy attached with an energy dispersive X-ray unit (SEM-EDX). It was possible to identify 29 ceramic groups, some of which correspond to known Phoenician workshops of southern Andalusia and Ibiza, though the origin of most groups remains to be determined. The wide variety of sources identified illuminates the patterns of trade and exchange that the Phoenicians developed during the Early Iron Age and the export of their manufactured products. This information is fundamental to our understanding of the economic system developed by the Western Mediterranean Phoenician colonies that affected and transformed indigenous communities in the Mediterranean region.
Large-Scale Aircraft Pose Estimation System Based on Depth Cameras
Authors: Yang Yubang , Sun Shuyu , Huang Jianqiang , Huang Tengchao , Liu Kui
Published: March 2023

In the fields of wind tunnel measurement and aerospace, the real-time pose information of aircraft is an important index. In this paper, we propose a large-scale aircraft pose estimation system, in which depth cameras are used to scan the entire aircraft model in multiple directions. Using a principal component analysis (PCA) featuring vectors as the target coordinate system through a coordinate transformation matrix for the point cloud calibration of aircraft, we merge the complete aircraft model with the point cloud. An intrinsic shape signature (ISS) key point extraction and a signature of histograms of orientations (SHOT) feature description are used to form feature descriptors. The scale of the point clouds is reduced, and coarse registration of the point clouds is performed by feature matching and random sample consensus (RANSAC) mismatching. The robustness of the algorithm is improved, and the initial pose estimation is achieved for the precise registration of point clouds. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed system can achieve an angle measurement accuracy of 0.05°.
Centralized Mission Planning for Multiple Robots Minimizing Total Mission Completion Time
Authors: Hwang Nam Eung , Kim Hyung Jun , Kim Jae Gwan
Published: March 2023

Most mission planning algorithms solve multi-robot-multi-mission problems based on mixed integer linear programming. In these algorithms, the rewards (or costs) of missions for each robot are calculated according to the purpose of the user. Then, the (robot-mission) pair that has maximum rewards (or minimum costs) is found in the rewards (or costs) table and the mission is allocated to the robot. However, it is hard to design the reward for minimizing total mission completion time because not only a robot, but also the whole robots’ mission plans must be considered to achieve the purpose. In this paper, we propose centralized mission planning for multi-robot-multi-mission problems, minimizing total mission completion time. First, mission planning for single-robot-multi-mission problems is proposed because it is easy to solve. Then, this method is applied for multi-robot-multi-mission problems, adding a mission-plan-adjustment step. To show the excellent performance of the suggested algorithm in diverse situations, we demonstrate simulations for 3 representative cases: a simple case, which is composed of 3 robots and 8 missions, a medium case, which is composed of 4 robots and 30 missions, and a huge case, which is composed of 6 robots and 50 missions. The total mission completion time of the proposed algorithm for each case is lower than the results of the existing algorithm.
Efficient Re-Parameterization Residual Attention Network for Nonhomogeneous Image Dehazing
Authors: Chen Erkang , Ye Tian , Jiang Jingxia , Tong Lihan , Ye Qiubo
Published: March 2023

Real-world nonhomogeneous haze brings challenges to image restoration. More efforts are needed to remove dense haze and thin haze simultaneously and efficiently. However, most existing dehazing methods do not pay attention to the complex distributions of haze and usually suffer from a low runtime speed. To tackle such problems, we present an efficient re-parameterization residual attention network (RRA-Net), whose design has three key aspects. Firstly, we propose a training-time multi-branch residual attention block (MRAB), where multi-scale convolutions in different branches cope with the nonuniformity of haze and are converted into a single-path convolution during inference. It also features local residual learning with improved spatial attention and channel attention, allowing dense and thin haze to be attended to differently. Secondly, our lightweight network structure cascades six MRABs followed by a long skip connection with attention and a fusion tail. Overall, our RRA-Net only has about 0.3M parameters. Thirdly, two new loss functions, namely the Laplace pyramid loss and the color attenuation loss, help train the network to recover details and colors. The experimental results show that the proposed RRA-Net performs favorably against state-of-the-art dehazing methods on real-world image datasets, including both nonhomogeneous haze and dense homogeneous haze. A runtime comparison under the same hardware setup also demonstrates the superior efficiency of the proposed network.
Assessment Possibilities of the Quality of Mining Equipment and of the Parts Subjected to Intense Wear
Authors: Florea Vlad Alexandru , Toderaș Mihaela , Itu Răzvan-Bogdan
Published: March 2023

The equipment in underground mines provides a continuous production flow, depending on the way their quality is preserved during their operation. The TR-7A scraper conveyer subassemblies, which function in the Jiu Valley coal basin and are subjected to abrasion wear, showed a high failure frequency (chains, chain elevators, and driving and turning drums), as well as the hydraulic couplings and certain electric equipment of the same machinery. The data collected following the TR-7A scraper conveyer at work allowed the parameters to be determined that characterise the reliability and maintainability of the above-mentioned components, the failure modes, and their effects. Using calculation methods, the interpretation of the results has been facilitated, with a view to reducing maintenance costs and obtaining an 80% reliability for the components with the most failures, in the case of the TR-7A scraper conveyer.
The Many Lives of Oscar Niemeyer’s Column: The Legacy of Brasília, Coloniality, and Heritage in the Works of Lais Myrrha and Talles Lopes
Authors: Heeren Alice
Published: March 2023

This article examines contemporary artists’ appropriation of the city of Brasília to critique Brazil’s continued reliance on the “unfinished” project of modernity. Exploring the construction of the scenography of Brasília and its resonance with the architecture and organization of space in the colonial plantations, the works of contemporary artists Lais Myrrha (Estudo de Caso [Case Study], Estudo para um Futuro Construído [Study for a Constructed Future]), and Talles Lopes (Construção Brasileira [Brazil Builds]) allows us to reconnect Brasília with the backdrop that gave rise to this ideal. These works invoke the reconciliation of the colonial matrix of power in Lucio Costa’s discourse about modernist architecture in Brazil, of which Brasília is the culmination. Myrrha’s and Lopes’ works show that the history and legacy of Brasília, not only as an idea but also as form, are embedded in the Brazilian imaginary and built environment in the contemporary moment.
Daily Precipitation and Temperature Extremes in Southern Italy (Calabria Region)
Authors: Prete Giuseppe , Avolio Elenio , Capparelli Vincenzo , Lepreti Fabio , Carbone Vincenzo
Published: March 2023

We apply extreme value theory (EVT) to study the daily precipitation and temperature extremes in the Calabria region (southern Italy) mainly considering a long-term observational dataset (1990–2020) and also investigating the possible use of the ERA5 (ECMWF Reanalysis v5) fields. The efficiency of the EVT applied on the available observational dataset is first assessed—both through a punctual statistical analysis and return-level maps. Two different EVT methods are adopted, namely the peak-over-threshold (POT) approach for the precipitation and the block-maxima (BM) approach for the temperature. The proposed methodologies appear to be suitable for describing daily extremes both in quantitative terms, considering the punctual analysis in specific points, and in terms of the most affected areas by extreme values, considering the return-level maps. Conversely, the analysis conducted using the reanalysis fields for the same time period highlights the limitations of using these fields for a correct quantitative reconstruction of the extremes while showing a certain consistency regarding the areas most affected by extreme events. By applying the methodology on the observed dataset but focusing on return periods of 50 and 100 years, an increasing trend of daily extreme rainfall and temperature over the whole region emerges, with specific areas more affected by these events; in particular, rainfall values up to 500 mm/day are predicted in the southeastern part of Calabria for the 50-year-return period, and maximum daily temperatures up to 40 °C are expected in the next 100 years, mainly in the western and southern parts of the region. These results offer a useful perspective for evaluating the exacerbation of future extreme weather events possibly linked to climate change effects.
Trends and Variability in Flood Magnitude: A Case Study of the Floods in the Qilian Mountains, Northwest China
Authors: Wang Xueliang , Chen Rensheng , Li Kailu , Yang Yong , Liu Junfeng , Liu Zhangwen , Han Chuntan
Published: March 2023

Analyzing trends in flood magnitude changes, and their underlying causes, under climate change, is a key challenge for the effective management of water resources in arid and semi-arid regions, particularly for inland rivers originating in the Qilian Mountains (QMs). Sen’s slope estimator and the Mann–Kendall test were used to investigate the spatial and temporal trends in flood magnitude, based on the annual maximum peak discharge (AMPD) and Peaks Over Threshold magnitude (POT3M) flood series, of twelve typical rivers, from 1970 to 2021. The results showed that, in the AMPD series, 42% of the rivers had significantly decreasing trends, while 8% had significantly increasing trends; in the POT3M series, 25% of the rivers had significantly decreasing trends, while 8% had significantly increasing trends. The regional differences in the QMs from east to west were that, rivers in the eastern region (e.g., Gulang, Zamu, and Xiying rivers) showed significantly decreasing trends in the AMPD and POT3M series; most rivers in the central region had non-significant trends, while the Shule river in the western region showed a significantly increasing trend. Temperatures and precipitation showed a fluctuating increasing trend after 1987, which were the main factors contributing to the change in flood magnitude trends of the AMPD and POT3M flood series in the QMs. Regional differences in precipitation, precipitation intensity, and the ratio of glacial meltwater in the eastern, central and western regions, resulted in the differences in flood magnitude trends between the east and west.
A Non-Equilibrium Interpolation Scheme for IB-LBM Optimized by Approximate Force
Authors: Liu Bowen , Shi Weiping
Published: March 2023

A non-equilibrium scheme and an optimized approximate force are proposed for the immersed boundary–lattice Boltzmann method (IB-LBM) to solve the fluid–structure interaction (FSI) equations. This new IB-LBM uses the discrete velocity distribution function and non-equilibrium distribution function to establish the interpolation operator and the spread operator at the mesoscopic scale. In the interpolation operator, we use the force model of LBM to derive a direct force with a simple form. In the spread operator, we give a theoretical proof with local second-order accuracy of the spread process using the non-equilibrium theory from the LBM. A non-iterative explicit force approximation scheme optimizes the direct force in that the streamlines have no penetration phenomenon, and the no-slip condition is strictly satisfied. Different from other schemes for the IB-LBM, we try to apply the non-equilibrium theory from the LBM to the IB-LBM and obtain good results. The explicit force obtained using the non-equilibrium scheme and then optimized via the non-iterative streamline correction equation simplifies the explicit direct force scheme and the original implicit scheme previously proposed but obtains a similar streamline correction result compared with the implicit method. Numerical tests prove the applicability and accuracy of this method in the simulation of complex conditions such as moving rigid bodies and deforming flexible bodies.
On Some Branched Continued Fraction Expansions for Horn’s Hypergeometric Function H4(a,b;c,d;z1,z2) Ratios
Authors: Antonova Tamara , Dmytryshyn Roman , Lutsiv Ilona-Anna , Sharyn Serhii
Published: March 2023

The paper deals with the problem of representation of Horn’s hypergeometric functions by branched continued fractions. The formal branched continued fraction expansions for three different Horn’s hypergeometric function H4 ratios are constructed. The method employed is a two-dimensional generalization of the classical method of constructing of Gaussian continued fraction. It is proven that the branched continued fraction, which is an expansion of one of the ratios, uniformly converges to a holomorphic function of two variables on every compact subset of some domain H,H⊂C2, and that this function is an analytic continuation of this ratio in the domain H. The application to the approximation of functions of two variables associated with Horn’s double hypergeometric series H4 is considered, and the expression of solutions of some systems of partial differential equations is indicated.
Pericoronary Adipose Tissue Radiomics from Coronary Computed Tomography Angiography Identifies Vulnerable Plaques
Authors: Kim Justin N. , Gomez-Perez Lia , Zimin Vladislav N. , Makhlouf Mohamed H. E. , Al-Kindi Sadeer , Wilson David L. , Lee Juhwan
Published: March 2023

Pericoronary adipose tissue (PCAT) features on Computed Tomography (CT) have been shown to reflect local inflammation and increased cardiovascular risk. Our goal was to determine whether PCAT radiomics extracted from coronary CT angiography (CCTA) images are associated with intravascular optical coherence tomography (IVOCT)-identified vulnerable-plaque characteristics (e.g., microchannels (MC) and thin-cap fibroatheroma (TCFA)). The CCTA and IVOCT images of 30 lesions from 25 patients were registered. The vessels with vulnerable plaques were identified from the registered IVOCT images. The PCAT-radiomics features were extracted from the CCTA images for the lesion region of interest (PCAT-LOI) and the entire vessel (PCAT-Vessel). We extracted 1356 radiomic features, including intensity (first-order), shape, and texture features. The features were reduced using standard approaches (e.g., high feature correlation). Using stratified three-fold cross-validation with 1000 repeats, we determined the ability of PCAT-radiomics features from CCTA to predict IVOCT vulnerable-plaque characteristics. In the identification of TCFA lesions, the PCAT-LOI and PCAT-Vessel radiomics models performed comparably (Area Under the Curve (AUC) ± standard deviation 0.78 ± 0.13, 0.77 ± 0.14). For the identification of MC lesions, the PCAT-Vessel radiomics model (0.89 ± 0.09) was moderately better associated than the PCAT-LOI model (0.83 ± 0.12). In addition, both the PCAT-LOI and the PCAT-Vessel radiomics model identified coronary vessels thought to be highly vulnerable to a similar standard (i.e., both TCFA and MC; 0.88 ± 0.10, 0.91 ± 0.09). The most favorable radiomic features tended to be those describing the texture and size of the PCAT. The application of PCAT radiomics can identify coronary vessels with TCFA or MC, consistent with IVOCT. Furthermore, the use of CCTA radiomics may improve risk stratification by noninvasively detecting vulnerable-plaque characteristics that are only visible with IVOCT.
Understanding the Effects of Trenbolone Acetate, Polyamine Precursors, and Polyamines on Proliferation, Protein Synthesis Rates, and the Abundance of Genes Involved in Myoblast Growth, Polyamine Biosynthesis, and Protein Synthesis in Murine Myoblasts
Authors: Motsinger Laura A. , Okamoto Lillian L. , Ineck Nikole E. , Udy Brynne A. , Erickson Christopher L. , Harraq Youssef , Reichhardt Caleb C. , Murdoch Gordon K. , Thornton Kara Jean
Published: March 2023

Research suggests that androgens increase skeletal muscle growth by modulating polyamine biosynthesis. As such, the objective of this study was to investigate effects of anabolic hormones, polyamine precursors, and polyamines relative to proliferation, protein synthesis, and the abundance of mRNA involved in polyamine biosynthesis, proliferation, and protein synthesis in C2C12 and Sol8 cells. Cultures were treated with anabolic hormones (trenbolone acetate and/or estradiol), polyamine precursors (methionine or ornithine), or polyamines (putrescine, spermidine, or spermine). Messenger RNA was isolated 0.5 or 1, 12, or 24 h post-treatment. The cell type had no effect (p > 0.10) on proliferation, protein synthesis, or mRNA abundance at any time point. Each treatment increased (p < 0.01) proliferation, and anabolic hormones increased (p = 0.04) protein synthesis. Polyamines increased (p < 0.05) the abundance of mRNA involved in polyamine biosynthesis, proliferation, and protein synthesis. Treatment with polyamine precursors decreased (p < 0.05) the abundance of mRNA involved in proliferation and protein synthesis. Overall, C2C12 and Sol8 myoblasts do not differ (p > 0.10) in proliferation, protein synthesis, or mRNA abundance at the time points assessed. Furthermore, anabolic hormones, polyamines, and polyamine precursors increase proliferation and protein synthesis, and polyamines and their precursors alter the abundance of mRNA involved in growth.
The Matrix Protein Cysrichin, a Galaxin-like Protein from Hyriopsis cumingii, Induces Vaterite Formation In Vitro
Authors: Xia Zhonghui , Zhang Xin , Zhou Yujuan , Yao Liping , Zhang Zhen , Zhang Rongqing , Liu Xiaojun
Published: March 2023

In this study, we cloned a novel matrix protein, cysrichin, with 16.03% homology and a similar protein structure to the coral biomineralized protein galaxin. Tissue expression analysis showed that cysrichin was mainly expressed in mantle and gill tissues. In situ hybridization indicated that cysrichin mRNA was detected in the entire epithelium region of mantle tissue. RNAi analysis and shell notching experiment confirmed that cysrichin participates in the prismatic layer and nacreous layer formation of the shell. An in vitro crystallization experiment showed that the cysrichin protein induced lotus-shaped and round-shaped crystals, which were identified as vaterite crystals. These results may provide new clues for understanding the formation of vaterite in freshwater shellfish.
Spatial, Temporal, and Geographical Factors Associated with Stranded Marine Endangered Species in Thailand during 2006–2015
Authors: Pradip Na Thalang Pangram , Thongratsakul Sukanya , Poolkhet Chaithep
Published: March 2023

The stranding of endangered marine animals is cause for concern. We used spatial and temporal analyses to investigate the stranding of endangered marine species (whales, dolphins, dugongs, and sea turtles) in Thailand, based on stranding data and geographical records during 2006–2015. A total of 1988 stranding events were obtained, including 105 whales (5.28%), 714 dolphins (35.92%), 103 dugongs (5.18%), and 1065 sea turtles (53.57%), at an average of 198.80 stranded animals/year (standard deviation = 47.19). Most strandings occurred along the Gulf of Thailand (56.94%), while the rest occurred along the Andaman Sea (43.06%). Cluster and kernel analyses showed that strandings were the most common in Phuket Province. The average number of stranded animals in the rainy season was significantly higher than that in summer and winter (p < 0.05). Our results indicate that the coastline of Thailand was significantly associated with the number of seasonal strandings (p < 0.05). However, there was no significant association between environmental factors and the number of strandings. In conclusion, surveillance systems based on spatial and temporal analyses should be established to monitor stranded animals. This will help relevant authorities to rescue stranded animals more effectively and to study the causes of stranding.
Bioelectrical, Anthropometric, and Hematological Analysis to Assess Body Fluids and Muscle Changes in Elite Cyclists during the Giro d’Italia
Authors: Cebrián-Ponce Álex , Irurtia Alfredo , Castizo-Olier Jorge , Garnacho-Castaño Manuel , Espasa-Labrador Javier , Noriega Zeasseska , Carrasco-Marginet Marta
Published: March 2023

This study aimed to characterize and monitor the body fluid and muscle changes during the Giro d’Italia in nine elite cyclists via bioelectrical (whole-body and muscle-localized) anthropometric and hematological analysis. There were three checkpoint assessments: at the beginning, middle, and end of the race. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare the data at baseline and follow up. The Spearman correlation was used to explore relationships between variables. Hotelling’s T2 test was used to determine bioelectrical differences in the complex vector. Bodyweight did not change during the competition, despite bioelectrical and hematological data indicating that at the first half of the race, there was a fluid gain, and in the second half a fluid loss occurred, reaching baseline values. These changes were especially prevalent in the extracellular water compartment. Significant correlations between whole-body bioelectrical vector changes and red blood cell parameter changes were reported. The muscle group most sensitive to changes were the calves. Quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves reported a PhA decrease trend during the first half of the race, and an increase during the second half. Bioelectrical impedance vector analysis appears to be sensitive enough to detect hydration and cellular integrity adaptions induced by competitions as demanding as the Giro d’Italia.
Phylogenetic Analysis of R2R3-MYB Family Genes in Tetrastigma hemsleyanum Diels et Gilg and Roles of ThMYB4 and ThMYB7 in Flavonoid Biosynthesis
Authors: Xu Haishun , Dai Xue , Hu Xue , Yu Haizheng , Wang Ying , Zheng Bingsong , Xu Juan , Wu Xueqian
Published: March 2023

Tetrastigma hemsleyanum Diels et Gilg (T. hemsleyanum) is an extensively used Chinese folk herb with multiple bioactivities. Among these bioactivities, flavonoids are recognized as the representative active ingredients. We previously found an elevated accumulation of flavonoids in T. hemsleyanum under water stress; however, the mechanism remains unclear. R2R3-MYB transcription factors play vital roles in the plant response to environmental stress and the regulation of secondary metabolites. Herein, a systematic transcriptome identification of R2R3-MYB family genes under water stress in T. hemsleyanum was performed to explore their potential function in the biosynthesis of flavonoids. A total of 26 R2R3-MYB genes were identified, most of which were clustered into functional branches of abiotic stress. ThMYB4 and ThMYB7 were then screened out to be associated with the biosynthesis of flavonoids through a protein-protein interaction prediction. An expression correlation analysis based on RNA-seq further confirmed that ThMYB4 and ThMYB7 were positively related to the flavonoid biosynthetic pathway genes of T. hemsleyanum. In ThMYB4- and ThMYB7-overexpression hairy roots, it was found that the expression of ThCHS and ThCHI was significantly increased, suggesting that ThMYB4 and ThMYB7 may act as regulators in flavonoid biosynthesis. This will shed new light on the promotion of flavonoid production and the medicinal value of T. hemsleyanum by manipulating transcription factors.
Mucopolysaccharidoses Differential Diagnosis by Mass Spectrometry-Based Analysis of Urine Free Glycosaminoglycans—A Diagnostic Prediction Model
Authors: D’Avanzo Francesca , Zanetti Alessandra , Dardis Andrea , Scarpa Maurizio , Volpi Nicola , Gatto Francesco , Tomanin Rosella
Published: March 2023

Impaired glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) catabolism may lead to a cluster of rare metabolic and genetic disorders called mucopolysaccharidoses (MPSs). Each subtype is caused by the deficiency of one of the lysosomal hydrolases normally degrading GAGs. Affected tissues accumulate undegraded GAGs in cell lysosomes and in the extracellular matrix, thus leading to the MPS complex clinical phenotype. Although each MPS may present with recognizable signs and symptoms, these may often overlap between subtypes, rendering the diagnosis difficult and delayed. Here, we performed an exploratory analysis to develop a model that predicts MPS subtypes based on UHPLC-MS/MS measurement of a urine free GAG profile (or GAGome). We analyzed the GAGome of 78 subjects (38 MPS, 37 healthy and 3 with other MPS symptom-overlapping disorders) using a standardized kit in a central-blinded laboratory. We observed several MPS subtype-specific GAGome changes. We developed a multivariable penalized Lasso logistic regression model that attained 91.2% balanced accuracy to distinguish MPS type II vs. III vs. any other subtype vs. not MPS, with sensitivity and specificity ranging from 73.3% to 91.7% and from 98.4% to 100%, depending on the predicted subtype. In conclusion, the urine GAGome was revealed to be useful in accurately discriminating the different MPS subtypes with a single UHPLC-MS/MS run and could serve as a reliable diagnostic test for a more rapid MPS biochemical diagnosis.
Circular RNAs in the Origin of Developmental Lung Disease: Promising Diagnostic and Therapeutic Biomarkers
Authors: Tong Yajie , Zhang Shuqing , Riddle Suzette , Song Rui , Yue Dongmei
Published: March 2023

Circular RNA (circRNA) is a newly discovered noncoding RNA that regulates gene transcription, binds to RNA-related proteins, and encodes protein microRNAs (miRNAs). The development of molecular biomarkers such as circRNAs holds great promise in the diagnosis and prognosis of clinical disorders. Importantly, circRNA-mediated maternal-fetus risk factors including environmental (high altitude), maternal (preeclampsia, smoking, and chorioamnionitis), placental, and fetal (preterm birth and low birth weight) factors are the early origins and likely to contribute to the occurrence and progression of developmental and pediatric cardiopulmonary disorders. Although studies of circRNAs in normal cardiopulmonary development and developmental diseases have just begun, some studies have revealed their expression patterns. Here, we provide an overview of circRNAs’ biogenesis and biological functions. Furthermore, this review aims to emphasize the importance of circRNAs in maternal-fetus risk factors. Likewise, the potential biomarker and therapeutic target of circRNAs in developmental and pediatric lung diseases are explored.
Identification of Tregs-Related Genes with Molecular Patterns in Patients with Systemic Sclerosis Related to ILD
Authors: Luo Jiao , Li Dongdong , Jiang Lili , Shi Chunhua , Duan Lihua
Published: March 2023

Background: Systemic Sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease that is characterized by vasculopathy, digital ulcers, Raynaud’s phenomenon, renal failure, pulmonary arterial hypertension, and fibrosis. Regulatory T (Treg) cell subsets have recently been found to play crucial roles in SSc with interstitial lung disease (ILD) pathogenesis. This study investigates the molecular mechanism of Treg-related genes in SSc patients through bioinformatic analyses. Methods: The GSE181228 dataset of SSc was used in this study. CIBERSORT was used for assessing the category and proportions of immune cells in SSc. Random forest and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression analysis were used to select the hub Treg-related genes. Results: Through bioinformatic analyses, LIPN and CLEC4D were selected as hub Treg-regulated genes. The diagnostic power of the two genes separately for SSc was 0.824 and 0.826. LIPN was associated with the pathway of aminoacyl−tRNA biosynthesis, Primary immunodeficiency, DNA replication, etc. The expression of CLEC4D was associated with the pathway of Neutrophil extracellular trap formation, PPAR signaling pathway, Staphylococcus aureus infection, Systemic lupus erythematosus, TNF signaling pathway, and Toll−like receptor signaling pathway. Conclusion: Through bioinformatic analyses, we identified two Treg-related hub genes (LIPN, CLEC4D) that are mainly involved in the immune response and metabolism of Tregs in SSc with ILD. Moreover, our findings may provide the potential for studying the molecular mechanism of SSc with ILD.
Identification and Elimination of Antifungal Tolerance in Candida auris
Authors: Rasouli Koohi Samira , Shankarnarayan Shamanth A. , Galon Clare Maristela , Charlebois Daniel A.
Published: March 2023

Antimicrobial resistance is a global health crisis to which pathogenic fungi make a substantial contribution. The human fungal pathogen C. auris is of particular concern due to its rapid spread across the world and its evolution of multidrug resistance. Fluconazole failure in C. auris has been recently attributed to antifungal “tolerance”. Tolerance is a phenomenon whereby a slow-growing subpopulation of tolerant cells, which are genetically identical to susceptible cells, emerges during drug treatment. We use microbroth dilution and disk diffusion assays, together with image analysis, to investigate antifungal tolerance in C. auris to all three classes of antifungal drugs used to treat invasive candidiasis. We find that (1) C. auris is tolerant to several common fungistatic and fungicidal drugs, which in some cases can be detected after 24 h, as well as after 48 h, of antifungal drug exposure; (2) the tolerant phenotype reverts to the susceptible phenotype in C. auris; and (3) combining azole, polyene, and echinocandin antifungal drugs with the adjuvant chloroquine in some cases reduces or eliminates tolerance and resistance in patient-derived C. auris isolates. These results suggest that tolerance contributes to treatment failure in C. auris infections for a broad range of antifungal drugs, and that antifungal adjuvants may improve treatment outcomes for patients infected with antifungal-tolerant or antifungal-resistant fungal pathogens.
Special Issue: Therapeutic Potential for Cannabis and Cannabinoids
Authors: Raup-Konsavage Wesley M.
Published: March 2023

The number of patients reporting the use of cannabis for medical purposes, whether through state-regulated medical marijuana programs or through over-the-counter hemp extracts, continues to grow [...]
Atorvastatin and Nitrofurantoin Repurposed in the Context of Breast Cancer and Neuroblastoma Cells
Authors: Moura Catarina , Correia Ana Salomé , Pereira Mariana , Ribeiro Eduarda , Santos Joana , Vale Nuno
Published: March 2023

Chemotherapy still plays a central role in the treatment of cancer. However, it is often accompanied by off-target effects that result in severe side-effects and development of drug resistance. The aim of this work was to study the efficacy of different repurposed drugs on the viability of MCF-7 and SH-SY5Y breast cancer and neuroblastoma cells, respectively. In addition, combinations of these repurposed drugs with a classical chemotherapeutic drug (doxorubicin) were also carried out. The cytotoxic effects of the repurposed drugs were evaluated individually and in combination in both cancer cell lines, assessed by MTT assays and morphological evaluation of the cells. The results demonstrated that atorvastatin reduced the viability of both cell lines. However, nitrofurantoin was able to induce cytotoxic effects in MCF-7 cells, but not in SH-SY5Y cells. The combinations of the repurposed drugs with doxorubicin induced a higher inhibition on cell viability than the repurposed drugs individually. The combination of the two repurposed drugs demonstrated that they potentiate each other. Synergism studies revealed that the combination of doxorubicin with the two repurposed drugs was more effective in SH-SY5Y cells, compared to MCF-7 cells. Taken together, our preliminary study highlights the potential use of atorvastatin and nitrofurantoin in the context of breast cancer and neuroblastoma.
Application of the American Thyroid Association Risk Assessment in Patients with Differentiated Thyroid Carcinoma in a German Population
Authors: Eilsberger Friederike , Kreissl Michael C. , Reiners Christoph , Holzgreve Adrien , Luster Markus , Pfestroff Andreas
Published: March 2023

Background: The American Thyroid Association (ATA) uses criteria to assess the risk for persistent disease in differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC) after radioiodine therapy (RAI). There are no data available showing that this classification can be adopted unadjusted by Germany. Aim: The aim of our study is to investigate whether the ATA classification can be applied to a German population for short-term prognosis. Furthermore, we investigated the influence of an age cutoff value. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 121 patients who were referred to our tertiary referral center. Patients were classified into risk categories, and the therapy response was determined according to ATA. Results: A total of 73/83 (88%) ATA low-risk patients and 12/19 (63%) intermediate-risk patients showed an excellent response; 2/19 (11%) high-risk patients had a biochemical, and 6 (31%) had a structural incomplete response. Of all 39 patients ≥55 years, 84% had an excellent response. Using a cut off of 50 years, 50/62 (81%) of the older patients showed an excellent response. Conclusion: The ATA risk classification is able to estimate the response to RAI therapy in a German population. A shift from 55 to 50 years as an age cutoff value does not result in any relevant change in the treatment response.
Nanomaterials-Based Electrochemical Δ9-THC and CBD Sensors for Chronic Pain
Authors: Pazuki Dadbeh , Ghosh Raja , Howlader Matiar M. R.
Published: March 2023

Chronic pain is now included in the designation of chronic diseases, such as cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease, which can impair quality of life and are major causes of death and disability worldwide. Pain can be treated using cannabinoids such as Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) due to their wide range of therapeutic benefits, particularly as sedatives, analgesics, neuroprotective agents, or anti-cancer medicines. While little is known about the pharmacokinetics of these compounds, there is increasing interest in the scientific understanding of the benefits and clinical applications of cannabinoids. In this review, we study the use of nanomaterial-based electrochemical sensing for detecting Δ9-THC and CBD. We investigate how nanomaterials can be functionalized to obtain highly sensitive and selective electrochemical sensors for detecting Δ9-THC and CBD. Additionally, we discuss the impacts of sensor pretreatment at fixed potentials and physiochemical parameters of the sensing medium, such as pH, on the electrochemical performance of Δ9-THC and CBD sensors. We believe this review will serve as a guideline for developing Δ9-THC and CBD electrochemical sensors for point-of-care applications.
Plasmonic Sensors: A New Frontier in Nanotechnology
Authors: Kumar Samir , Seo Sungkyu
Published: March 2023

Plasmonics is the study of surface plasmons formed by the interaction of incident light with electrons to form a surface-bound electromagnetic wave [...]