bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differential Distribution of Brain Metastases from Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Based on Mutation Status
Authors: Chen Bihong T. , Jin Taihao , Ye Ningrong , Chen Sean W. , Rockne Russell C. , Yoon Stephanie , Mambetsariev Isa , Daniel Ebenezer , Salgia Ravi
Published: July 2023

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has a high rate of brain metastasis. The purpose of this study was to assess the differential distribution of brain metastases from primary NSCLC based on mutation status. Brain MRI scans of patients with brain metastases from primary NSCLC were retrospectively analyzed. Brain metastatic tumors were grouped according to mutation status of their primary NSCLC and the neuroimaging features of these brain metastases were analyzed. A total of 110 patients with 1386 brain metastases from primary NSCLC were included in this study. Gray matter density at the tumor center peaked at ~0.6 for all mutations. The median depths of tumors were 7.9 mm, 8.7 mm and 9.1 mm for EGFR, ALK and KRAS mutation groups, respectively (p = 0.044). Brain metastases for the EGFR mutation-positive group were more frequently located in the left cerebellum, left cuneus, left precuneus and right precentral gyrus. In the ALK mutation-positive group, brain metastases were more frequently located in the right middle occipital gyrus, right posterior cingulate, right precuneus, right precentral gyrus and right parietal lobe. In the KRAS mutation-positive patient group, brain metastases were more frequently located in the posterior left cerebellum. Our study showed differential spatial distribution of brain metastases in patients with NSCLC according to their mutation status. Information regarding distribution of brain metastases is clinically relevant as it could be helpful to guide treatment planning for targeted therapy, and for predicting prognosis.
Dexmedetomidine Improves Anxiety-like Behaviors in Sleep-Deprived Mice by Inhibiting the p38/MSK1/NFκB Pathway and Reducing Inflammation and Oxidative Stress
Authors: Li Jiangjing , Zhang Heming , Deng Bin , Wang Xin , Liang Peng , Xu Shenglong , Jing Ziwei , Xiao Zhibin , Sun Li , Gao Changjun , Wang Jin , Sun Xude
Published: July 2023

(1) Background: Sleep deprivation (SD) triggers a range of neuroinflammatory responses. Dexmedetomidine can improve sleep deprivation-induced anxiety by reducing neuroinflammatory response but the mechanism is unclear; (2) Methods: The sleep deprivation model was established by using an interference rod device. An open field test and an elevated plus maze test were used to detect the emotional behavior of mice. Mouse cortical tissues were subjected to RNA sequence (RNA-seq) analysis. Western blotting and immunofluorescence were used to detect the expression of p38/p-p38, MSK1/p-MSK1, and NFκBp65/p- NFκBp65. Inflammatory cytokines were detected using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA); (3) Results: SD triggered anxiety-like behaviors in mice and was closely associated with inflammatory responses and the MAPK pathway (as demonstrated by transcriptome analysis). SD led to increased expression levels of p-p38, p-MSK1, and p-NFκB. P38 inhibitor SB203580 was used to confirm the important role of the p38/MSK1/NFκB pathway in SD-induced neuroinflammation. Dexmedetomidine (Dex) effectively improves emotional behavior in sleep-deprived mice by attenuating SD-induced inflammatory responses and oxidative stress in the cerebral cortex, mainly by inhibiting the activation of the p38/MSK1/NFκB pathway; (4) Conclusions: Dex inhibits the activation of the p38/MSK1/NFκB pathway, thus attenuating SD-induced inflammatory responses and oxidative stress in the cerebral cortex of mice.
From Bad to Worse: Safety Behaviors Exacerbate Eating Disorder Fears
Authors: Spix Michelle , Melles Hanna , Jansen Anita
Published: July 2023

When evaluating ambiguous situations, humans sometimes use their behavior as a source of information (behavior-as-information effect) and interpret safety behaviors as evidence for danger. Accordingly, we hypothesized that eating disorder safety behaviors (restrictive eating, body checking, etc.) might aggravate fear and anxiety in individuals with an eating disorder. The present study tested to what extent eating disorder safety behaviors increase threat perception in individuals with and without an eating disorder. For this, 108 individuals with a self-reported eating disorder diagnosis and 82 healthy controls rated the dangerousness of several short situations. The situations systematically varied in the presence of eating disorder safety behaviors and danger information. As expected, all participants perceived situations in which the protagonist executed an eating disorder safety behavior as more threatening than situations without a safety behavior. This ‘behavior-as-information’ effect was equally strong in individuals with and without an eating disorder. Additionally, safety behaviors strengthened threat perception more in safe situations than in dangerous situations. To conclude, the presence of eating disorder safety behavior can increase threat perception regardless of whether individuals have an eating disorder or not. This makes eating disorder safety behaviors a potential risk factor for the development and maintenance of eating disorder fears.
Experimental and DIC Study of Reinforced Concrete Beams Strengthened by Basalt and Carbon Textile Reinforced Mortars in Flexure
Authors: Moy Charles K. S. , Revanna Naveen
Published: July 2023

This paper presents an experimental study to strengthen flexure-deficient reinforced concrete beams using textile-reinforced mortars (TRMs). A set of seven reinforced concrete beams were strengthened using basalt and carbon TRMs. The current study utilised textiles with almost similar physical properties to strengthen reinforced concrete (RC) beams. All the studied beams were strengthened at their soffit to evaluate the effectiveness of textile fibres, the number of layers and the strengthening configuration. The experimental results showed that beams strengthened using carbon and basalt textile-reinforced mortar performed equally better in terms of overall performance with inherent textile slippage after the peak load. The flexural load capacities of the beams were strengthened with one layer, and three layers were higher when compared to the control beam. For the basalt TRM one, three and five layers registered an increment of 8.3%, 20.7% and 30.3% of ultimate strengths over the unstrengthened specimen. Similarly, for the carbon TRM one, three and five layers recorded an increment of 14.2%, 15.3% and 32.3% of ultimate strengths over the control specimen. Five-layered specimens with end U-wraps successfully mitigated premature debonding, along with registering maximum load capacity, and digital image correlation (DIC) was performed to monitor real-time crack width, crack patterns and spacing and to compare the load and displacement responses from all the tested specimens.
Vulnerability of Existing RC Building with Seismic Damage Scenarios: Case of Educational Buildings in Mostaganem City
Authors: Bendehiba Sabeur , Bourdim Sidi Mohammed El-Amine , Rodrigues Hugo , Zelmat Yassine
Published: July 2023

The present work aims to assess the large-scale seismic vulnerability of a set of 55 reinforced concrete educational establishments of different typologies (approximately 516 constructions) located within the urban perimeter of the city of Mostaganem. Among them, 328 buildings were constructed in accordance with the Algerian seismic regulation (built after 1980), while 188 constructions were built without a seismic design code (built before < 1980). This classification corresponds to the application/creation of this regulation following a major earthquake in Chlef (El Asnam) in 1980. Using the RISK-UE lm1 method, the vulnerability index was assessed based on a visual inspection for each building using an on-site inventory form to determine the general sources of seismic vulnerability. This strategy allows the prioritization of constructions according to their typologies, considering the structural system of the building and modifying factors, such as code level, maintenance condition, number of floors, plan and elevation irregularities, soil morphology, etc. The application of this methodology generated several seismic scenarios expressing the probable damage to the constructions, and the following results were suggested: The first two seismic scenarios have no damage corresponding to intensities I = 5; 6. The third scenario is characterized by low to negligible damage corresponding to intensity I = 7. Moderate damage was observed for the fourth seismic scenario (I = 8), while the fifth scenario generated by seismic intensity I = 9 presents moderate to heavy damage. The sixth scenario, with intensity I = 10, exhibits a relatively heavy damage balance. Starting from intensity I = 11, the damage becomes heavy to very heavy for the seventh scenario. Finally, the eighth scenario describes total destruction of the constructions. The results obtained from the application of this methodology on the educational buildings have been integrated into a Geographic Information System (GIS) environment to better understand the seismic behavior of the structures and to estimate the magnitude of seismic risk. This facilitates simulation and enables efforts to be made to take concrete preventive measures to strengthen existing educational buildings, thus reducing the negative impact of future earthquakes.
Effect of Carbon Nanoparticles on the Porous Texture of ι-Carrageenan-Based N-Doped Nanostructured Porous Carbons and Implications for Gas Phase Applications
Authors: Andrade Samantha K. Samaniego , Menyhárd Alfréd , Klébert Szilvia , Mohai Miklós , Nagy Balázs , László Krisztina
Published: July 2023

S and N double-doped high surface area biomass-derived carbons were obtained from marine biomass-derived ι-carrageenan. Adding carbon nanoparticles (CNPs), namely graphene oxide (GO) or carbon nanotubes (CNTs), in the early stage of the synthesis leads to a modified porous texture and surface chemistry. The porous textures were characterized by N2 (−196.15 °C) and CO2 (0 °C) isotherms. The best GO- and CNT-added carbons had an apparent surface area of 1780 m2/g and 1170 m2/g, respectively, compared to 1070 m2/g for the CNP-free matrix. Analysis of the Raman spectra revealed that CNT was more efficient in introducing new defects than GO. Based on XPS, the carbon samples contain 2–4.5 at% nitrogen and 1.1 at% sulfur. The Dubinin–Radushkevich (DR) and Henry models were used to assess the strength of the interactions between various gases and the surface. The N2/H2 and CO2/CH4 selectivities were estimated with ideal adsorbed solution theory (IAST). While the CNPs, particularly GO, had a remarkable influence on the porous texture and affected the surface chemistry, their influence on the separation selectivity of these gases was more modest.
Molecular Subtypes and Tumor Microenvironment Characteristics of Small-Cell Lung Cancer Associated with Platinum-Resistance
Authors: Kim Jihyun , Kim Sunshin , Park Seog-Yun , Lee Geon Kook , Lim Kun Young , Kim Jin Young , Hwang Jung-Ah , Yu Namhee , Kang Eun Hye , Hwang Mihwa , Song Bo Ram , Park Charny , Han Ji-Youn
Published: July 2023

Although molecular subtypes of small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) have been proposed, their clinical relevance and therapeutic implications are not fully understood. Thus, we aimed to refine molecular subtypes and to uncover therapeutic targets. We classified the subtypes based on gene expression (n = 81) and validated them in our samples (n = 87). Non-SCLC samples were compared with SCLC subtypes to identify the early development stage of SCLC. Single-cell transcriptome analysis was applied to dissect the TME of bulk samples. Finally, to overcome platinum resistance, we performed drug screening of patient-derived cells and cell lines. Four subtypes were identified: the ASCL1+ (SCLC-A) subtype identified as TP53/RB-mutated non-SCLC representing the early development stage of SCLC; the immune activation (SCLC-I) subtype, showing high CD8+/PD-L1+ T-cell infiltration and endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT); the NEUROD1 (SCLC-N) subtype, which showed neurotransmission process; and the POU2F3+ (SCLC-P) subtype with epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). EndMT was associated with the worst prognosis. While SCLC-A/N exhibited platinum sensitivity, the EndMT signal of SCLC-I conferred platinum resistance. A BET inhibitor suppressed the aggressive angiogenesis phenotype of SCLC-I. We revealed that EndMT development contributed to a poor outcome in SCLC-I. Moreover, heterogenous TME development facilitated platinum resistance. BET inhibitors are novel candidates for overcoming platinum resistance.
Reproductive Results in Cancer Survivors after Fertility Sparing Management: The Need for the Standardization of Definitions
Authors: Piątek Szymon , Szymusik Iwona , Bidziński Mariusz
Published: July 2023

In fertility-sparing management (FSM), two different issues can be distinguished: the risk of recurrence/death and the chance of childbearing. Survival is the principal outcome in oncology, and definitions of overall survival and progression-free survival are therefore well defined and widely accepted. The introduction of FSM to clinical practice was determined by the desire of young cancer patients to still have children. Initially, in small groups of patients, any pregnancy and/or childbirth were considered successes. Nowadays, FSM occupies an important place in cancer treatment, with thousands of young women treated successfully. However, in contrast to survival, no definition has been established for evaluating the reproductive outcomes of FSM. This review article evaluates the current pregnancy and birth rates of cancer patients. Differences between fertility-sparing and conservative treatment are analyzed, and improper and confusing interchangeable applications of these terms are pointed out. Additionally, various reasons for choosing FSM as a treatment method—which are not directly related to fertility preservation (treatment mismatch)—are presented. Uniform definitions of reproduction after FSM should be established to enable the comparison of results and facilitate the counseling of patients regarding the chances of reproduction.
The Absolute Monocyte Count at Diagnosis Affects Prognosis in Myelodysplastic Syndromes Independently of the IPSS-R Risk Score
Authors: Silzle Tobias , Blum Sabine , Kasprzak Annika , Nachtkamp Kathrin , Rudelius Martina , Hildebrandt Barbara , Götze Katharina S. , Gattermann Norbert , Lauseker Michael , Germing Ulrich
Published: July 2023

The absolute monocyte count (AMC) is associated with mortality in a variety of medical conditions. Its prognostic impact in myelodysplastic syndromes (MDSs) is less well studied. Therefore, we investigated its potential prognostic value in a cohort from the Düsseldorf MDS registry in relationship to the revised international prognostic scoring system (IPSS-R). An AMC below the population’s median (<0.2 × 109/L) was associated with several adverse disease features such as lower haemoglobin levels, lower count of neutrophils and platelets, and a higher percentage of blasts in the bone marrow. MDS patients with an AMC < 0.2 × 109/L had a significantly higher risk of progression into acute myeloid leukemia (AML). In a univariate, proportional hazards model the effect of the AMC as a continuous variable was modelled via p-splines. We found a U-shaped effect with the lowest hazard around 0.3 × 109/L. Accordingly, an AMC within the last quartile of the population (0.4 × 109/L) was associated with a reduced overall survival independently of IPSS-R, but not with the risk of secondary AML. Considering monocytopenia as a risk factor for AML progression in MDS may provide an additional argument for allogeneic transplantation or the use of hypomethylating agents in patients who are not clear candidates for those treatments according to current prognostic scoring systems and/or recommendations. Further studies are needed to assess the prognostic impact of the AMC in the context of prognostic scoring systems, considering the molecular risk profile, and to identify the mechanisms responsible for the higher mortality in MDS patients with a subtle monocytosis.
Bile Acids and Microbiota Interplay in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Malhotra Pratibha , Palanisamy Ranjith , Caparros-Martin Jose A. , Falasca Marco
Published: July 2023

Evidence suggests the involvement of the microbiota, including oral, intra-tumoral and gut, in pancreatic cancer progression and response to therapy. The gut microbiota modulates the bile acid pool and is associated with maintaining host physiology. Studies have shown that the bile acid/gut microbiota axis is dysregulated in pancreatic cancer. Bile acid receptor expression and bile acid levels are dysregulated in pancreatic cancer as well. Studies have also shown that bile acids can cause pancreatic cell injury and facilitate cancer cell proliferation. The microbiota and its metabolites, including bile acids, are also altered in other conditions considered risk factors for pancreatic cancer development and can alter responses to chemotherapeutic treatments, thus affecting patient outcomes. Altogether, these findings suggest that the gut microbial and/or bile acid profiles could also serve as biomarkers for pancreatic cancer detection. This review will discuss the current knowledge on the interaction between gut microbiota interaction and bile acid metabolism in pancreatic cancer.
Update on the Diagnosis and Management of Meningiomas
Authors: Maiuri Francesco , Del Basso de Caro Marialaura
Published: July 2023

This series of five articles (one original article and four reviews) focuses on the most recent and interesting research studies on the biomolecular and radiological diagnosis and the surgical and medical management of meningiomas [...]
A Core-Shell Structured Na/Fe@Co Bimetallic Catalyst for Light-Hydrocarbon Synthesis from CO2 Hydrogenation
Authors: Li Yanbing , He Yingluo , Fujihara Kensei , Wang Chengwei , Sun Xu , Gao Weizhe , Guo Xiaoyu , Yasuda Shuhei , Yang Guohui , Tsubaki Noritatsu
Published: July 2023

The direct CO2 Fischer–Tropsch synthesis (CO2-FTS) process has been proven as one of the indispensable and effective routes in CO2 utilization and transformation. Herein, we present a core-shell structured Na/Fe@Co bimetallic catalyst to boost CO2 conversion and light hydrocarbon (C2 to C4) selectivity, as well as inhibit the selectivity of CO. Compared to the Na/Fe catalyst, our Na/Fe@CoCo-3 catalyst enabled 50.3% CO2 conversion, 40.1% selectivity of light hydrocarbons (C2-C4) in all hydrocarbon products and a high olefin-to-paraffin ratio (O/P) of 7.5 at 330 °C and 3.0 MPa. Through the characterization analyses, the introduction of CoCo Prussian Blue Analog (CoCo PBA) not only increased the reducibility of iron oxide (Fe2O3 to Fe3O4), accelerated the formation of iron carbide (FexCy), but also adjusted the surface basic properties of catalysts. Moreover, the trace Co atoms acted as a second active center in the CO2-FTS process for heightening light hydrocarbon synthesis from CO hydrogenation. This work provides a novel core-shell structured bimetallistic catalyst system for light hydrocarbons, especially light olefin production from CO2 hydrogenation.
Asymmetric Dual Enamine Catalysis/Hydrogen Bonding Activation
Authors: Reyes Efraím , Prieto Liher , Uria Uxue , Carrillo Luisa , Vicario Jose L.
Published: July 2023

Asymmetric enamine base activation of carbonyl compounds is a well-known and widely used strategy for providing functionalization of organic compounds in an efficient way. The use of solely organic substances, which in most cases are commercially available primary or secondary amines that are easy to obtain, avoids the use of hazardous substances or metal traces, making this type of catalysis a highly convenient methodology from a sustainable point of view. In many cases, the reactivity or the stereoselectivity obtained is far from being a practical and advantageous strategy; this can be improved by using a hydrogen bonding co-catalyst that can help during the activation of one species or by using a bifunctional catalyst that can direct the approximation of reagents during the reaction outcome. In this review, we describe the most efficient methodologies that make use of a dual activation of reagents for performing α-functionalization (enamine activation) or remote functionalization (such as dienamine or trienamine activation) of carbonyl compounds.
CD10-Bound Human Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cell-Derived Small Extracellular Vesicles Possess Immunomodulatory Cargo and Maintain Cartilage Homeostasis under Inflammatory Conditions
Authors: Kouroupis Dimitrios , Kaplan Lee D. , Huard Johnny , Best Thomas M.
Published: July 2023

The onset and progression of human inflammatory joint diseases are strongly associated with the activation of resident synovium/infrapatellar fat pad (IFP) pro-inflammatory and pain-transmitting signaling. We recently reported that intra-articularly injected IFP-derived mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (IFP-MSC) acquire a potent immunomodulatory phenotype and actively degrade substance P (SP) via neutral endopeptidase CD10 (neprilysin). Our hypothesis is that IFP-MSC robust immunomodulatory therapeutic effects are largely exerted via their CD10-bound small extracellular vesicles (IFP-MSC sEVs) by attenuating synoviocyte pro-inflammatory activation and articular cartilage degradation. Herein, IFP-MSC sEVs were isolated from CD10High- and CD10Low-expressing IFP-MSC cultures and their sEV miRNA cargo was assessed using multiplex methods. Functionally, we interrogated the effect of CD10High and CD10Low sEVs on stimulated by inflammatory/fibrotic cues synoviocyte monocultures and cocultures with IFP-MSC-derived chondropellets. Finally, CD10High sEVs were tested in vivo for their therapeutic capacity in an animal model of acute synovitis/fat pad fibrosis. Our results showed that CD10High and CD10Low sEVs possess distinct miRNA profiles. Reactome analysis of miRNAs highly present in sEVs showed their involvement in the regulation of six gene groups, particularly those involving the immune system. Stimulated synoviocytes exposed to IFP-MSC sEVs demonstrated significantly reduced proliferation and altered inflammation-related molecular profiles compared to control stimulated synoviocytes. Importantly, CD10High sEV treatment of stimulated chondropellets/synoviocyte cocultures indicated significant chondroprotective effects. Therapeutically, CD10High sEV treatment resulted in robust chondroprotective effects by retaining articular cartilage structure/composition and PRG4 (lubricin)-expressing cartilage cells in the animal model of acute synovitis/IFP fibrosis. Our study suggests that CD10High sEVs possess immunomodulatory miRNA attributes with strong chondroprotective/anabolic effects for articular cartilage in vivo. The results could serve as a foundation for sEV-based therapeutics for the resolution of detrimental aspects of immune-mediated inflammatory joint changes associated with conditions such as osteoarthritis (OA).
Migration of Myogenic Cells Is Highly Influenced by Cytoskeletal Septin7
Authors: Ráduly Zsolt , Szabó László , Dienes Beatrix , Szentesi Péter , Bana Ágnes Viktória , Hajdú Tibor , Kókai Endre , Hegedűs Csaba , Csernoch László , Gönczi Mónika
Published: July 2023

Septin7 as a unique member of the GTP binding protein family, is widely expressed in the eukaryotic cells and considered to be essential in the formation of hetero-oligomeric septin complexes. As a cytoskeletal component, Septin7 is involved in many important cellular processes. However, its contribution in striated muscle physiology is poorly described. In skeletal muscle, a highly orchestrated process of migration is crucial in the development of functional fibers and in regeneration. Here, we describe the pronounced appearance of Septin7 filaments and a continuous change of Septin7 protein architecture during the migration of myogenic cells. In Septin7 knockdown C2C12 cultures, the basic parameters of migration are significantly different, and the intracellular calcium concentration change in migrating cells are lower compared to that of scrambled cultures. Using a plant cytokinin, forchlorfenuron, to dampen septin dynamics, the altered behavior of the migrating cells is described, where Septin7-depleted cells are more resistant to the treatment. These results indicate the functional relevance of Septin7 in the migration of myoblasts, implying its contribution to muscle myogenesis and regeneration.
Special Issue: Intensive Care for Critically Ill Neonates: Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment
Authors: Grosek Stefan
Published: July 2023

Many physicians and researchers in the recent past have recognized the need to provide care and to study term and preterm infants when sufficient knowledge had not yet been attained, and to research how to approach and care for the most vulnerable children, i [...]
Numerical Investigation on the Effect of Electrical Parameters on the Discharge Characteristics of NS-SDBD
Authors: Liang Sijia , Yu Yang , Zheng Borui , Mao Yuepeng
Published: July 2023

There are numerous scientific and engineering fields where the surface dielectric barrier discharge driven by nanosecond pulses (NS-SDBD) has important applications. To improve its performance, more research is still needed on the effects of electrical parameters on the NS-SDBD actuator’s discharge characteristics. In this study, a two-dimensional numerical model based on 13 discharge particle chemical processes was constructed using a numerical simulation approach, producing findings for the NS-SDBD actuator’s voltage–current (V-A) characteristics, discharge profile, and spectrum analysis. Additionally, a comprehensive investigation into the trends and underlying mechanisms of the effects of the voltage amplitude, pulse width, rise time, and fall time parameters on the discharge behavior of the NS-SDBD actuator was carried out. The results show that higher voltage amplitudes increase the maximum current and electron density, which enhances the plasma excitation effect. The peak power deposition during the second discharge is also raised by longer pulse widths and rise times, whereas the total power deposition during the second discharge is decreased by longer fall times.
Evaluation of the Quality of Raspberries (Rubus idaeus L.) Grown in Balanced Fertilization Conditions
Authors: Sawicka Barbara , Barbaś Piotr , Skiba Dominika , Krochmal-Marczak Barbara , Pszczółkowski Piotr
Published: July 2023

(Background) Raspberry (R. idaeus L.) is very popular with consumers around the world for its intense flavor, attractive appearance, and health benefits. In recent years, interest in healthy eating and natural products has increased, and raspberry fits perfectly into these trends, which translates into its greater importance on the consumer market. (Aim) The aim of this study was the commodity evaluation of raspberry fruits bearing fruit on 2-year-old shoots, cultivated under conditions of varied nitrogen fertilization against the background of constant phosphorus-potassium fertilization. (Methodology) The first-order factors were cultivars (‘Laszka’ and ‘Glen Ample’), and the second-order factor was nitrogen fertilization (0, 50, 100, and 150 kg N ha−1), against the background of constant phosphorus-potassium fertilization (100 kg P2O5 and 120 kg K2O ha−1). The experiment was set up in a dependent split-plot design with three repetitions. (Results) The importance of raspberry on the consumer market was shaped by taste and quality of fruit, health benefits, naturalness and freshness, universality of use, availability, and nutritional trends. (Conclusions) The tested cultivars were characterized by similar production and quality capabilities. Fertilization of the tested cultivars with a dose of 135 kg N·ha−1 turned out to be justified in terms of yield. Increasing nitrogen doses resulted in a significant increase in fresh fruit yield and fruit weight. Different doses of nitrogen increased fruit resistance to mechanical damage, firmness, and quality indices.
Preschool Children’s Metaphoric Perceptions of Digital Games: A Comparison between Regions
Authors: Yazıcı Arıcı Elçin , Kalogiannakis Michail , Papadakis Stamatios
Published: July 2023

Preschoolers now play digital games on touch screens, e-toys and electronic learning systems. Although digital games have an important place in children’s lives, there needs to be more information about the meanings they attach to games. In this context, the research aims to determine the perceptions of preschool children studying in different regions of Turkey regarding digital games with the help of metaphors. Four hundred twenty-one preschool children studying in seven regions of Turkey participated in the research. The data were collected through the “Digital Game Metaphor Form” to determine children’s perceptions of digital games and through “Drawing and Visualization”, which comprises the symbolic pictures children draw of their feelings and thoughts. Phenomenology, a qualitative research model, was used in this study. The data were analyzed using the content analysis method. When the data were evaluated, the children had produced 421 metaphors collected in the following seven categories: “Nature Images, Technology Images, Fantasy/Supernatural Images, Education Images, Affective/Motivational Images, Struggle Images, and Value Images”. When evaluated based on regions, the Black Sea Region ranked first in the “Fantasy/Supernatural Images and Affective/Motivational Images” categories. In contrast, the Central Anatolia Region ranked first in the “Technology Images and Education Images” categories, and the Marmara Region ranked first in the “Nature Images and Value Images” categories. In addition, it was determined that the Southeast Anatolia Region ranks first in the “Struggle Images” category.
Tensile Microstrain Fluctuations in the BaPbO Units in Superconducting BaPb1−xBixO3 by Scanning Dispersive Micro-XANES
Authors: Albertini Ruben , Macis Salvatore , Ivanov Andrei , Menushenkov Alexey , Puri Alessandro , Monteseguro Virginia , Joseph Boby , Xu Wei , Marcelli Augusto , Giraldo-Gallo Paula , Fisher Ian , Bianconi Antonio , Campi Gaetano
Published: July 2023

BaPb1−xBixO3 (BPBO) bismuthate, showing high TC superconductivity for 0.05 < x < 0.35, is an archetypal system for studying the complex inhomogeneity of perovskite lattice favoring the emergence of quantum coherence, called the superstripes phase. Local lattice fluctuations, detected by EXAFS; nanoscale stripes, detected by electron microscopy; and two competing crystalline structures, detected by diffraction, are known to characterize the superconducting phase. At nanoscale [BaBiO3] centered nanoscale units (BBO) coexist with BaPbO3 centered (BPO) units in the BPBO perovskite; therefore, we expect a tensile microstrain in BPO units due the misfit strain between the two different lattices. Here, we report the measurement of the spatial micro-fluctuations of the local tensile microstrain ε in the BaPO units in superconducting Ba(Pb1−xBix)O3 crystals with x1 = 0.19 an x2 = 0.28. We show here the feasibility of applying the scanning dispersive micro-X-ray absorption near edge structure (SdμXANES) technique, using focused synchrotron radiation, to probe the microscale spatial fluctuations of the microstrain in BPO units. This unconventional real-space SdμXANES microscopy at the Pb L3 edge has been collected in the dispersive mode. Our experimental method allows us to measure either the local Bi chemical concentration x and the local lattice microstrain of local BBO and BPO units. The 5 × 5 micron-size spots from the focused X-ray beam allowed us to obtain maps of 1600 points covering an area of 200 × 200 microns. The mapping shows a substantial difference between the spatial fluctuations of the microstrain ε and the chemical inhomogeneity x. Moreover, we show the different relations ε(x) in samples with lower (x1 = 0.19) and higher (x2 = 0.28) doping respect to the optimum doping (x = 0.25).
Automated Classical Cipher Emulation Attacks via Unified Unsupervised Generative Adversarial Networks
Authors: Park Seonghwan , Kim Hyunil , Moon Inkyu
Published: July 2023

Cryptanalysis has been studied and gradually improved with the evolution of cryptosystems over past decades. Recently, deep learning (DL) has started to be used in cryptanalysis to attack digital cryptosystems. As computing power keeps growing, deploying DL-based cryptanalysis becomes feasible in practice. However, since these studies can analyze only one cipher type for one DL model learning, it takes a lot of time to analyze multi ciphers. In this paper, we propose a unified cipher generative adversarial network (UC-GAN), which can perform ciphertext-to-plaintext translations among multiple domains (ciphers) using only a single DL model. In particular, the proposed model is based on unified unsupervised DL for the analysis of classical substitutional ciphers. Simulation results have indicated the feasibility and good performance of the proposed approach. In addition, we compared our experimental results with the findings of conditional GAN, where plaintext and ciphertext pairs in only the single domain are given as training data, and with CipherGAN, which is cipher mapping between unpaired ciphertext and plaintext in the single domain, respectively. The proposed model showed more than 97% accuracy by learning only data without prior knowledge of three substitutional ciphers. These findings could open a new possibility for simultaneously cracking various block ciphers, which has a great impact on the field of cryptography. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study of the cryptanalysis of multiple cipher algorithms using only a single DL model
A Novel Trinuclear Nickel(II) Salicylaldimine Complex: Synthesis, Structural Characterization, Bioactivity Profile against Bacterial, Fungal and Breast Cancer Cells and Effects on Wheat Germination Indices
Authors: Williem Ereny S. , Amro Ahmed , Ibrahim Ahmed B. M. , Abd Elkhalik S. , Mayer Peter , Abbas S. M.
Published: July 2023

The complex [Ni3L6]•1.56CH2Cl2 (HL = (E)-2-(((3,4-dimethylphenyl)imino)methyl)phenol) was isolated in the monoclinic C 2/c space group. All nickel atoms are six-coordinate with a nickel atom bound to only O-phenol atoms, while the two terminal cations are surrounded by N3O3 atoms. This complex and its ligand (20 mg/mL in DMSO) were tested as antimicrobials. Against two fungi, the complex and amphotericin B caused 13 and 21 mm inhibition diameters, respectively, in Candida albicans plates. Against four bacteria, the ligand inhibited only Staphylococcus aureus with a 10 mm diameter, and the complex induced inhibitions with 10–13 mm (ampicillin afforded 21–26 mm inhibitions). Against cancer (MCF-7) and normal (BHK) cells, the ligand provided virtual inactivity, but great activities (IC50 = 5.44 and 11.61 μM, respectively) were shown by the complex. Doxorubicin afforded activities with IC50 = 9.66 and 36.42 μM in these cells, respectively. The ligand and its complex offered 100% germination of a drought-sensitive wheat cultivar (90% for control), but, under drought, the complex, ligand and control gave germination with 85, 75 and 95%, respectively. Under normal irrigation and drought, the control and complex afforded 100% germination, and the ligand afforded 95% germination for a drought-resistive wheat cultivar.
Aggressive Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Head and Neck: A Review
Authors: Desai Neha , Divatia Mukul K. , Jadhav Aniket , Wagh Aditya
Published: July 2023

Non-melanoma skin cancer of the head and neck (NMSCHN) is one of the most common malignancies worldwide, and its incidence is growing at a significant rate. It has been found to be aggressive in its spread and has the capacity to metastasize to regional lymph nodes. Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) has a considerably high mortality rate. It has remarkable characteristics: diameter >2 cm, depth >5 mm, high recurrence, perineural invasion, and locoregional metastases. Aggressive cSCC lesions most commonly metastasize to the parotid gland. Also, immunocompromised patients have a higher risk of developing this aggressive cancer along with the worst prognostic outcomes. It is very important to discuss and assess the risk factors, prognostic factors, and outcomes of patients with cSCC, which will give clinicians future directives for making modifications to their treatment plans. The successful treatment of aggressive cSCC of the head and neck includes early detection and diagnosis, surgery alone or adjuvant chemotherapy, and radiotherapy as required. Multimodal therapy options should be considered by clinicians for better outcomes of aggressive cSCC of the head and neck.
Extraction-Free Colorimetric RT-LAMP Detection of SARS-CoV-2 in Saliva
Authors: Rivas-Macho Ane , Sorarrain Ane , Marimón José M. , Goñi-de-Cerio Felipe , Olabarria Garbiñe
Published: July 2023

The pandemic situation caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has highlighted the need of fast, simple, and cost-effective tests for the diagnosis of emerging pathogens. RT-qPCR has been established as the reference technique for the diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infections. This method requires a time-consuming protocol for the extraction of the nucleic acids present in the sample. A colorimetric reverse transcription loop-mediated isothermal amplification using the calcein molecule combined with a simple extraction-free method for saliva samples (calcein RT-LAMP) has been developed. Samples are heated 95 °C for 10 min before amplification at 63 °C for 40 min. The results can be observed by fluorescence or by the naked eye with a color change from orange to green. The method was compared with commercialized available colorimetric and fluorescent RT-LAMP kits. The developed method shows better sensitivity and specificity than the colorimetric commercial RT-LAMP and the same as the fluorescent RT-LAMP, without the need of a fluorescent reader. Moreover, the calcein RT-LAMP has, compared to RT-qPCR, a sensitivity of 90% and a specificity of 100% for saliva samples with a Ct ≤ 34, without the need for expensive RT-qPCR instruments, demonstrating the potential of this method for population screening.
A Decision for Throughput Optimization in UAV-Enabled Emergency Outdoor–Indoor Fairness Communication
Authors: Guo Zinan , Hu Bo , Chen Shanzhi
Published: July 2023

This paper investigates the throughput optimization strategy in an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)-enabled emergency outdoor–indoor fairness communication scenario, with the UAV as a mobile relay station in the air, to provide outdoor–indoor communication services for users inside buildings. The occurrence of severe signal fading caused by outdoor transmission loss through wall loss as well as indoor transmission loss when the UAV forwards the information to the indoor users reduces the channel gain and degrades the system downlink throughput. To improve the downlink throughput of the system and ensure communication fairness for indoor users, we designed a joint UAV location deployment and resource allocation (JLRO) algorithm that optimized UAV three-dimensional (3D) deployment location, power and bandwidth resource allocation. The simulation results demonstrate the convergence and validity of the proposed JLRO algorithm, as well as its superiority compared to benchmark algorithms.
A GPS-Adaptive Spoofing Detection Method for the Small UAV Cluster
Authors: Meng Lianxiao , Zhang  Long , Yang Lin , Yang Wu
Published: July 2023

The small UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) cluster has become an important trend in the development of UAVs because it has the advantages of being unmanned, having a small size and low cost, and ability to complete many collaborative tasks. Meanwhile, the problem of GPS spoofing attacks faced by submachines has become an urgent security problem for the UAV cluster. In this paper, a GPS-adaptive spoofing detection (ASD) method based on UAV cluster cooperative positioning is proposed to solve the above problem. The specific technical scheme mainly includes two detection mechanisms: the GPS spoofing signal detection (SSD) mechanism based on cluster cooperative positioning and the relative security machine optimal marking (RSOM) mechanism. The SSD mechanism starts when the cluster enters the task state, and it can detect all threats to the cluster caused by one GPS signal spoofing source in the task environment; when the function range of the mechanism is exceeded, that is, there is more than one spoofing source and more than one UAV is attacked by different spoofing sources, the RSOM mechanism is triggered. The ASD algorithm proposed in this work can detect spoofing in a variety of complex GPS spoofing threat environments and is able to ensure the cluster formation and task completion. Moreover, it has the advantages of a lightweight calculation level, strong applicability, and high real-time performance.
Enhancing Data Discretization for Smoother Drone Input Using GAN-Based IMU Data Augmentation
Authors: Petrenko Dmytro , Kryvenchuk Yurii , Yakovyna Vitaliy
Published: July 2023

This study investigates the use of generative adversarial network (GAN)-based data augmentation to enhance data discretization for smoother drone input. The goal is to improve unmanned aerial vehicles’ (UAVs) performance and maneuverability by incorporating synthetic inertial measurement unit (IMU) data. The GAN model is employed to generate synthetic IMU data that closely resemble real-world IMU measurements. The methodology involves training the GAN model using a dataset of real IMU data and then using the trained model to generate synthetic IMU data. The generated synthetic data are then combined with the real data for data discretization. The resulting improved data discretization is evaluated using statistical metrics and a similarity evaluation. The improved data discretization demonstrates enhanced drone performance in terms of flight stability, control accuracy, and smoothness of movements when compared to standard data discretization methods. These results highlight the potential of GAN-based data augmentation for enhancing data discretization and improving drone performance. The proposition of improved data discretization offers a tangible benefit for the successful integration of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) systems. Enhancing the accuracy and reliability of data acquisition and processing in UAS makes UAS operations safer and more reliable. This improvement is crucial for achieving the goal of automated and autonomous operations in diverse settlement environments, encompassing multiple mobility modes such as ground and air transportation.
Impact of Wind on eVTOL Operations and Implications for Vertiport Airside Traffic Flows: A Case Study of Hamburg and Munich
Authors: Schweiger Karolin , Schmitz Reinhard , Knabe Franz
Published: July 2023

This study examines the impact of wind/gust speed conditions on airside traffic flows at vertiports in the context of on-demand urban air mobility based on the Vertidrome Airside Level of Service Framework. A wind-dependent operational concept introducing four wind speed categories with corresponding wind-dependent separation values is developed and applied in simulation. A decade (2011–2020) of historical METAR wind/gust speed reports are analyzed for a potential vertiport location at Hamburg and Munich airport, and a representative year of wind speed data is selected for each location as simulation input. Both locations experience performance degradation during the first quarter of the simulated year, which contains over 50% of the annual flight cancellations, and exceed wind-operating conditions, especially during midday and early afternoon hours. This study discusses the importance of wind-dependent coordination of flight schedules and analyzes the challenge of determining appropriate wind speed category thresholds. Lower thresholds result in an increased frequency of operationally unfavorable wind/gust conditions. Additional sensitivity analyses are performed to study the effects of wind-dependent separation deltas and wind-(in)dependent scheduling approaches. In conclusion, the presented approach enables planners and operators to make informed decisions about vertiport traffic flow characteristics and performance, vertiport location, and business cases.
Use of Inner/Outer Sphere Terminology in Electrochemistry—A Hexacyanoferrate II/III Case Study
Authors: Cassidy John F. , de Carvalho Rafaela C. , Betts Anthony J.
Published: July 2023

Salts of hexacyanoferrate II/III anions have been widely used as redox couple probe molecules to determine the characteristics of electrode surfaces. Examples include the assessment of electrocatalysts for energy applications and electrocatalysts for the detection of biological or chemical species, as well as the determination of electrochemically active surface areas. An examination of the electrochemical literature, based largely on cyclic voltammetric investigations, reveals a wide range of peak separation and/or heterogeneous electron transfer rate constants, classified sometimes as inner or outer sphere electron transfer processes. Originally developed for the mechanistic interpretation of inorganic transition metal compounds in solution, this terminology has since been extended to account for heterogeneous electron transfer occurring at electrodes. In the case of the hexacyanoferrate II/III anions, there can be a number of reasons why it sometimes behaves as an outer sphere probe and at other times displays inner sphere electron transfer characteristics. After examining some of the structural and chemical properties of the hexacyanoferrate II/III species, the methods used to determine such classifications are described. The most common method involves measuring peak-to-peak separation in a cyclic voltammogram to ascertain a heterogeneous rate constant, but it has inherent flaws. This paper reviews the reasons for the classification disparity, including the effects of various oxygen surface species, the influence of organic surface films, the nature of the cation counter-ion, surface adsorption and surface hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity. Other surface interactions may also take place, such as those occurring with Au corrosion or pH effects. These can impact the electrical double layer and thus may affect the electron transfer process. Consequently, it is recommended that hexacyanoferrate II/III should be considered a multi-sphere or alternatively a surface-sensitive electron transfer species.