bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Chromatin Landscape around DNA Double-Strand Breaks in Yeast and Its Influence on DNA Repair Pathway Choice
Authors: Frigerio Chiara , Di Nisio Elena , Galli Michela , Colombo Chiara Vittoria , Negri Rodolfo , Clerici Michela
Published: February 2023

DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) are harmful DNA lesions, which elicit catastrophic consequences for genome stability if not properly repaired. DSBs can be repaired by either non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) or homologous recombination (HR). The choice between these two pathways depends on which proteins bind to the DSB ends and how their action is regulated. NHEJ initiates with the binding of the Ku complex to the DNA ends, while HR is initiated by the nucleolytic degradation of the 5′-ended DNA strands, which requires several DNA nucleases/helicases and generates single-stranded DNA overhangs. DSB repair occurs within a precisely organized chromatin environment, where the DNA is wrapped around histone octamers to form the nucleosomes. Nucleosomes impose a barrier to the DNA end processing and repair machinery. Chromatin organization around a DSB is modified to allow proper DSB repair either by the removal of entire nucleosomes, thanks to the action of chromatin remodeling factors, or by post-translational modifications of histones, thus increasing chromatin flexibility and the accessibility of repair enzymes to the DNA. Here, we review histone post-translational modifications occurring around a DSB in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae and their role in DSB repair, with particular attention to DSB repair pathway choice.
Effects of Candidalysin Derived from Candida albicans on the Expression of Pro-Inflammatory Mediators in Human Gingival Fibroblasts
Authors: Nishikawa Yasufumi , Tomotake Yoritoki , Kawano Hiromichi , Naruishi Koji , Kido Jun-ichi , Hiroshima Yuka , Murakami Akikazu , Ichikawa Tetsuo , Yumoto Hiromichi
Published: February 2023

Candida albicans (Ca) is frequently detected in the peri-implant sulcus with peri-implantitis, a major postoperative complication after oral implant therapy. However, the involvement of Ca in the pathogenesis of peri-implantitis remains unclear. In this study, we aimed to clarify Ca prevalence in the peri-implant sulcus and investigated the effects of candidalysin (Clys), a toxin produced by Ca, on human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs). Peri-implant crevicular fluid (PICF) was cultured using CHROMagar and Ca colonization rate and colony numbers were calculated. The levels of interleukin (IL)-1β and soluble IL-6 receptor (sIL-6R) in PICF were quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Pro-inflammatory mediator production and intracellular signaling pathway (MAPK) activation in HGFs were measured by ELISA and Western blotting, respectively. The Ca colonization rate and the average number of colonies in the peri-implantitis group tended to be higher than those in the healthy group. IL-1β and sIL-6R levels in the PICF were significantly higher in the peri-implantitis group than in the healthy group. Clys significantly induced IL-6 and pro-matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1 productions in HGFs, and co-stimulation with Clys and sIL-6R increased IL-6, pro-MMP-1, and IL-8 production levels in HGFs compared with Clys stimulation alone. These findings suggest that Clys from Ca plays a role in the pathogenesis of peri-implantitis by inducing pro-inflammatory mediators.
Enzymes as Targets for Drug Development II
Authors: Kim Sung-Kun
Published: February 2023

Enzymes are viewed as the most desirable targets for drug development by the pharmaceutical community [...]
A Comparative Analysis of Supervised and Unsupervised Models for Detecting Attacks on the Intrusion Detection Systems
Authors: Talaei Khoei Tala , Kaabouch Naima
Published: February 2023

Intrusion Detection Systems are expected to detect and prevent malicious activities in a network, such as a smart grid. However, they are the main systems targeted by cyber-attacks. A number of approaches have been proposed to classify and detect these attacks, including supervised machine learning. However, these models require large labeled datasets for training and testing. Therefore, this paper compares the performance of supervised and unsupervised learning models in detecting cyber-attacks. The benchmark of CICDDOS 2019 was used to train, test, and validate the models. The supervised models are Gaussian Naïve Bayes, Classification and Regression Decision Tree, Logistic Regression, C-Support Vector Machine, Light Gradient Boosting, and Alex Neural Network. The unsupervised models are Principal Component Analysis, K-means, and Variational Autoencoder. The performance comparison is made in terms of accuracy, probability of detection, probability of misdetection, probability of false alarm, processing time, prediction time, training time per sample, and memory size. The results show that the Alex Neural Network model outperforms the other supervised models, while the Variational Autoencoder model has the best results compared to unsupervised models.
Investigation of Track Gauge and Alignment Parameters of Ballasted Railway Tracks Based on Real Measurements Using Signal Processing Techniques
Authors: Fischer Szabolcs , Liegner Nándor , Bocz Péter , Vinkó Ákos , Terdik György
Published: February 2023

This paper deals with the time-frequency characteristic analysis for track geometry irregularities using field data recorded by a comprehensive track inspection train. The parameters of the track gauge and the left and right rail alignment are considered to identify their characteristic wavelengths and the locations of their waveforms. In addition to the conventional time and frequency domain analysis, auto-adaptive signal decomposition techniques are used on four pre-selected track sections. During the time series analysis of the track gauge, the cumulative difference from the mean value is calculated, which makes it possible to distinguish the track section constructed with non-standard initial track gauges. The sensitive wavelengths of the track irregularities are obtained from the proper allocation of wavelength ranges in the Fourier Amplitude Spectrum of the original signal and the Fourier transform of the components detected by the Variational Mode Decomposition. This analysis can elucidate the wavelengths and positions of track irregularities that affect vehicle responses.
The Cardiac Effects of COVID-19 on Young Competitive Athletes: Results from the Outcomes Registry for Cardiac Conditions in Athletes (ORCCA)
Authors: Moulson Nathaniel , Petek Bradley J. , Baggish Aaron L. , Harmon Kimberly G. , Kliethermes Stephanie A. , Patel Manesh R. , Churchill Timothy W. , Drezner Jonathan A.
Published: February 2023

The Outcomes Registry for Cardiac Conditions in Athletes (ORCCA) study is a large-scale prospective investigation evaluating the cardiovascular effects and outcomes of SARS-CoV-2 infection on young competitive athletes. This review provides an overview of the key results from the ORCCA study. Results from the ORCCA study have provided important insights into the clinical impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection on the cardiovascular health of young competitive athletes and informed contemporary screening and return to sport practices. Key results include defining a low prevalence of both cardiac involvement and adverse cardiovascular outcomes after SARS-CoV-2 infection and evaluating the utility of a return-to-play cardiac evaluation. Future aims of the ORCCA study include the longer-term evaluation of cardiovascular outcomes among athletes post-SARS-CoV-2 infection and the transition to investigating outcomes in young athletes with potentially high-risk genetic or structural cardiac diagnoses.
Prognostic Imaging Biomarkers in Diabetic Macular Edema Eyes Treated with Intravitreal Dexamethasone Implant
Authors: Costanzo Eliana , Giannini Daniela , De Geronimo Daniele , Fragiotta Serena , Varano Monica , Parravano Mariacristina
Published: February 2023

Background: The aim was to evaluate predictive value of baseline optical coherence tomography (OCT) and OCT angiography (OCTA) parameters in diabetic macular edema (DME) treated with dexamethasone implant (DEXi). Methods: OCT and OCTA parameters were collected: central macular thickness (CMT), vitreomacular abnormalities (VMIAs), intraretinal and subretinal fluid (mixed DME pattern), hyper-reflective foci (HRF), microaneurysms (MAs) reflectivity, ellipsoid zone disruption, suspended scattering particles in motion (SSPiM), perfusion density (PD), vessel length density, and foveal avascular zone. Responders’ (RES) and non-responders’ (n-RES) eyes were classified considering morphological (CMT reduction ≥ 10%) and functional (BCVA change ≥ 5 ETDRS letters) changes after DEXi. Binary logistic regression OCT, OCTA, and OCT/OCTA-based models were developed. Results: Thirty-four DME eyes were enrolled (18 treatment-naïve). OCT-based model combining DME mixed pattern + MAs + HRF and OCTA-based model combining SSPiM and PD showed the best performance to correctly classify the morphological RES eyes. In the treatment-naïve eyes, VMIAs were included with a perfect fit for n-RES eyes. Conclusion: The presence of DME mixed pattern, a high number of parafoveal HRF, hyper-reflective MAs, SSPiM in the outer nuclear layers, and high PD represent baseline predictive biomarkers for DEXi treatment responsiveness. The application of these models to treatment-naïve patients allowed a good identification of n-RES eyes.
Outcomes of Patients Treated with Blood Transfusion in a Contemporary Tertiary Care Medical Center Intensive Cardiac Care Unit
Authors: Karameh Hani , Bruoha Sharon , Taha Louay , Tabi Meir , Farkash Rivka , Karmi Mohammad , Hamayel Kamal , Perel Nimrod , Steinmetz Yoed , Marmor David , Manassra Mohammed , Maller Tomer , Hitter Rafael , Amsalem Itshak , Glikson Michael , Asher Elad
Published: February 2023

Background: Acutely ill patients treated with blood transfusion (BT) have unfavorable prognoses. Nevertheless, data regarding outcomes in patients treated with BT admitted into a contemporary tertiary care medical center intensive cardiac care unit (ICCU) are limited. The current study aimed to assess the mortality rate and outcomes of patients treated with BT in a modern ICCU. Methods: Prospective single center study where we evaluated mortality, in the short and long term, of patients treated with BT between the period of January 2020 and December 2021 in an ICCU. Outcomes: A total of 2132 consecutive patients were admitted to the ICCU during the study period and were followed-up for up to 2 years. In total, 108 (5%) patients were treated with BT (BT-group) during their admission, with 305 packed cell units. The mean age was 73.8 ± 14 years in the BT-group vs. 66.6 ± 16 years in the non-BT (NBT) group, p < 0.0001. Females were more likely to receive BT as compared with males (48.1% vs. 29.5%, respectively, p < 0.0001). The crude mortality rate was 29.6% in the BT-group and 9.2% in the NBT-group, p < 0.0001. Multivariate Cox analysis found that even one unit of BT was independently associated with more than two-fold the mortality rate [HR = 2.19 95% CI (1.47–3.62)] as compared with the NBT-group, p < 0.0001]. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was plotted for multivariable analysis and showed area under curve (AUC) of 0.8 [95% CI (0.760–0.852)]. Conclusions: BT continues to be a potent and independent predictor for both short- and long-term mortality even in a contemporary ICCU, despite the advanced technology, equipment and delivery of care. Further considerations for refining the strategy of BT administration in ICCU patients and guidelines for different subsets of high-risk patients may be warranted.
Outcomes of Surgical Treatment for Graves’ Disease: A Single-Center Experience of 216 Cases
Authors: Sun Hanxing , Tong Hui , Shen Xiaohui , Gao Haoji , Kuang Jie , Chen Xi , Li Qinyu , Qiu Weihua , Liu Zhuoran , Yan Jiqi
Published: February 2023

Background: The role of surgery in the treatment of Graves’ disease (GD) needs to be revisited. The aims of the present retrospective study were to evaluate the outcomes of the current surgical strategy as a definitive treatment of GD at our center and to explore the clinical association between GD and thyroid cancer. Methods: A patient cohort of 216 cases from 2013 to 2020 was involved in this retrospective study. The data of the clinical characteristics and follow-up results were collected and analyzed. Results: There were 182 female and 34 male patients. The mean age was 43.9 ± 15.0 years old. The mean duration of GD reached 72.2 ± 92.7 months. Of the 216 cases, 211 had been treated with antithyroid drugs (ATDs) and hyperthyroidism had been completely controlled in 198 cases. A total (75%) or near-total (23.6%) thyroidectomy was performed. Intraoperative neural monitoring (IONM) was applied to 37 patients. The failure of ATD therapy (52.3%) was the most common surgical indication, followed by suspicion of a malignant nodule (45.8%). A total of 24 (11.1%) patients had hoarseness after the operation and 15 (6.9%) patients had transient vocal cord paralysis; 3 (1.4%) had this problem permanently. No bilateral RLN paralysis occurred. A total of 45 patients had hypoparathyroidism and 42 of them recovered within 6 months. Sex showed a correlation with hypoparathyroidism through a univariate analysis. A total of 2 (0.9%) patients underwent a reoperation because of hematomas. A total of 104 (48.1%) cases were diagnosed as thyroid cancer. In most cases (72.1%), the malignant nodules were microcarcinomas. A total of 38 patients had a central compartment node metastasis. A lateral lymph node metastasis occurred in 10 patients. Thyroid carcinomas were incidentally discovered in the specimens of 7 cases. The patients with concomitant thyroid cancer had a significant difference in body mass index, duration of GD, gland size, thyrotropin receptor antibodies and nodule(s) detected. Conclusion: Surgical treatments for GD were effective, with a relatively low incidence of complications at this high-volume center. Concomitant thyroid cancer is one of the most important surgical indications for GD patients. Careful ultrasonic screening is necessary to exclude the presence of malignancies and to determine the therapeutic plan.
A Comparison of Stochastic and Deterministic Downscaling in Eddy Resolving Ocean Modelling: The Lakshadweep Sea Case Study
Authors: Shapiro Georgy I. , Gonzalez-Ondina Jose M. , Salim Mohammed , Tu Jiada
Published: February 2023

This study compares the skills of two numerical models at the same horizontal resolution but based on different principles in representing meso- and sub-mesoscale ocean features. The first model, titled LD20-NEMO, was based on solving primitive equations of ocean dynamics. The second model, titled LD20-SDD, used a newer stochastic–deterministic downscaling (SDD) method. Both models had 1/20° resolution, the same meteo forcing, and used outputs from a data assimilating global model at 1/12° resolution available from Copernicus Marine Service (CMEMS). The LD20 models did not assimilate observational data but were physically aware of observations via the parent model. The LD20-NEMO only used a 2D set of data from CMEMS as the lateral boundary conditions. The LD20-SDD consumed the full 3D set of data from CMEMS and exploited the stochastic properties of these data to generate the downscaled field variables at higher resolution than the parent model. The skills of the three models were assessed against remotely sensed and in situ observations for the four-year period 2015–2018. The models showed similar skills in reproducing temperature and salinity, however the SDD version performed slightly better than the NEMO, and was more computationally efficient by a large margin.
Comparison of Viral Production and Decay Rates at the Surface and Bottom of the Euphotic Zone in the Summertime in the Southern East China Sea
Authors: Chen Patrichka Wei-Yi , Olivia Madeline , Mukhanov Vladimir , Tsai An-Yi
Published: February 2023

Viral dynamics are the result of the balance between the rates of viral production and decay. Here, we have carried out independent measurements of viral production and decay rates in different depths of the southern East China Sea in summer (August and October 2021). In this study, the prevalence of viral abundance at the surface waters (14.2~27.6 × 105 viruses mL−1) was significantly higher than the bottom of the euphotic zone (2.9~12.6 × 105 viruses mL−1). As for viruses to bacteria ratio (VBR) values, we found a wide variability both at the surface (1.4 to 3.2) and bottom of the euphotic zone (2.1 to 16.2). The results of our study showed that at all stations examined, in the southern East China Sea, the values of gross viral production (GVP) were significantly higher in the sunlit surfaces compared to the bottom of the euphotic zone. In particular, our analysis indicates that no significant viral decay rates (VD) were observed in some regions at the bottom of the euphotic zone. Here, we also provide a budget for viral abundance and net viral production in different regions in the southern East China Sea. The GVP or VD is not applicable in our case to explain VBR is high at bottom of the euphotic zone. The mechanisms underlying VBR uncoupling, viral production, and viral loss in marine systems are still being investigated.
Stress–Strain Assessment of Honeycomb Sandwich Panel Subjected to Uniaxial Compressive Load
Authors: Corigliano Pasqualino , Palomba Giulia , Crupi Vincenzo , Garbatov Yordan
Published: February 2023

The ship hull structure is composed of plates and stiffened panels. Estimating the maximum load-carrying capacity, or the ultimate strength, of these structural components is fundamental. One of the main challenges nowadays is the implementation of new materials and technologies to enhance the structural integrity, economy, safety and environmentally friendly design of the ship’s hull structure. A new design solution may be represented by aluminium alloy honeycomb sandwich structures, both as plane panels or stiffened ones, which are characterised by excellent impact-absorption capabilities and a high stiffness-to-weight ratio. Still, their response to some conditions typical of ship structural design needs to be deeply investigated. Axial compressive loading is one of the most critical conditions that could impact the structural integrity of such light-weight solutions. Hence, the uniaxial compressive behaviour of aluminium honeycomb sandwich structures has to be deeply investigated to promote their integration in ship structural design. Within this context, the present work performs an experimental and numerical study of a honeycomb sandwich panel subjected to uniaxial compressive loads. The results will help develop models for predicting the uniaxial compressive load-carrying capacity of hybrid honeycomb sandwiches of aluminium alloy design.
Biodegradation of Selected Hydrocarbons by Fusarium Species Isolated from Contaminated Soil Samples in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al-Otibi Fatimah , Al-Zahrani Rasha M. , Marraiki Najat
Published: February 2023

Background: Microbial biodegradation of oil-hydrocarbons is one of the sustainable and cost-effective methods to remove petroleum spills from contaminated environments. The current study aimed to investigate the biodegradation abilities of three Fusarium isolates from oil reservoirs in Saudi Arabia. The novelty of the current work is that the biodegradation ability of these isolates was never tested against some natural hydrocarbons of variable compositions, such as Crude oil, and those of known components such as kerosene and diesel oils. Methods: The isolates were treated with five selected hydrocarbons. The hydrocarbon tolerance test in solid and liquid media was performed. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) investigated the morphological changes of treated fungi. 2, 6-Dichlorophenol Indophenol (DCPIP), drop collapse, emulsification activity, and oil Spreading assays investigated the biodegradation ability. The amount of produced biosurfactants was measured, and their safety profile was estimated by the germination assay of tomato seeds. Results: The tolerance test showed enhanced fungal growth of all isolates, whereas the highest dose inhibition response (DIR) was 77% for Fusarium proliferatum treated with the used oil (p < 0.05). SEM showed morphological changes in all isolates. DCPIP results showed that used oil had the highest biodegradation by Fusarium verticillioides and Fusarium oxysporum. Mixed oil induced the highest effect in oil spreading, drop collapse, and emulsification assay caused by F. proliferatum. The highest recovery of biosurfactants was obtained by the solvent extraction method for F. verticillioides (4.6 g/L), F. proliferatum (4.22 g/L), and F. oxysporum (3.73 g/L). The biosurfactants produced by the three isolates stimulated tomato seeds’ germination more than in control experiments. Conclusion: The current study suggested the possible oil-biodegradation activities induced by three Fusarium isolates from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The produced biosurfactants are not toxic against tomato seed germination, emphasizing their environmental sustainability. Further studies are required to investigate the mechanism of biodegradation activities and the chemical composition of the biosurfactants produced by these species.
Performance Analysis of Gold- and Fiat-Backed Cryptocurrencies: Risk-Based Choice for a Portfolio
Authors: Irfan Muhammad , Rehman Mubeen Abdur , Nawazish Sarah , Hao Yu
Published: February 2023

This study aims to investigate the performance and behavior of fiat- and gold-backed cryptocurrencies to support stakeholders through the preparation of a portfolio from 1 January 2021 to 30 June 2022. Moreover, while searching for a hedge or a diversifier to construct a less risky portfolio with handsome returns, the prices of fiat-backed cryptocurrencies report high fluctuation during the sample period. ARIMA-EGARCH models have been employed to examine the volatile behavior of these cryptocurrencies. The empirical results are mixed as Bitcoin has been highly volatile during the economic recession. Due to its volatility, investors seek a safe haven. Ripple, on the other hand, shows low risk compared to Bitcoin. The results further reveal that PAX gold is more volatile than PM gold, while Bitcoin, being a highly traded cryptocurrency, is significantly correlated to other cryptocurrencies. The implications of this research showing the volatility of gold- and fiat-backed cryptocurrencies are equally important to stakeholders, such as investors, and policymakers.
People, Crops, and Bee Farming: Landscape Models for a Symbiotic Network in Greece
Authors: Carydi Io , Koutsianas Athanasios , Desyllas Marios
Published: February 2023

Despite the rising awareness of the mutual benefits of pollination, agricultural production, and biodiversity, Greek planning has scarcely moved toward patterns of pollinator-friendly farm design models. This paper presents data from preliminary research analysis that defined generic landscape design models that can enhance the symbiotic associations between farming production and beekeeping in Greece. The main objective is to determine tailor-made landscape models that can contribute to a portfolio of actions easily apprehensible by non-technical audiences in the farming sector who want to introduce biodiversity enhancements to monoculture farming, fostering a safer, poisonous-free environment for introduced honeybees, simultaneously helping to augment their production yields. A preliminary study was conducted in four agricultural farming estates in Thessaly and the Peloponnese involving apple farming, citrus orchards, and hemp cultivation. It combined the analysis and assessment of land cover classes with regard to the provision of foraging habitat, assessment of foraging suitability, description of connectivity characteristics, and emerging spatial patterns of natural corridors, patches, and edges at an observation perimeter around each farm. Assessment of these data informed design models for planting enrichment and integration of natural patches, such as meadows and shrub corridors. Pilot installations of hives in study areas that combined characteristics of the landscape models presented resulted in the production of 8% to 12% bigger fruits and 30% to 50% increase in the total yield. We conclude that landscape design models for biodiversity enhancement are an important attribute of ecosystem services and require an understanding of specific geographical and landscape parameters to render models operational for bee farming and pollination.
Ruta chalepensis L. In Vitro Cultures as a Source of Bioactive Furanocoumarins and Furoquinoline Alkaloids
Authors: Szewczyk Agnieszka , Grabowski Mariusz , Zych Dominika
Published: February 2023

Recently, due to the decreasing areas of cultivation and climate change, the use of biotechnological methods to obtain biomass, which is a source of valuable bioactive metabolites, is becoming more and more interesting. In this study, Ruta chalepensis in vitro cultures were investigated in RITA® temporary immersion bioreactors. Biomass growth and the production of secondary metabolites in 4- and 5-week growth cycles on three variants of the Linsmaier and Skoog (LS) medium (naphthyl-1-acetic acid/6-benzylaminopurine (NAA/BAP): 0.5/1.0, 0.1/0.1, and 1.0/1.0 mg/L) were analyzed. Using high-performance liquid chromatography of methanolic extracts of biomass, the presence of linear furanocoumarins (bergapten, isoimperatorin, isopimpinellin, psoralen, and xanthotoxin) and furoquinoline alkaloids (γ-fagarine, 7-isopentenyloxy-γ-fagarine, and skimmianine) was confirmed. The highest content of linear furanocoumarins (1170 mg/100 g DW (dry weight)) was observed in the LS medium variant containing 0.5/1.0 mg/L NAA/BAP (4-week growth cycle). The highest content of furoquinoline alkaloids (449 mg/100 g DW) was observed in the LS medium variant containing 0.1/0.1 mg/L NAA/BAP (5-week growth cycle). Hence, R. chalepensis bioreactor cultures may be used as a biotechnological source of linear furanocoumarins (xanthotoxin and bergapten) and furoquinoline alkaloids (skimmianine and γ-fagarine).
Study on Epoxy Resin Composite Reinforced with Rice Straw Fiber
Authors: Liu Xinzhen , Wang Jiaxin , Liu Tianqi , Cheng Qian , Li Anhui , Li Yuge , Liu Zihui , Sun Jiayi , Liu Dejun
Published: February 2023

In order to enhance the performance of the epoxy resin-prepared materials, straw fiber was used as the reinforcing base in this study. The principle of this study is to use the cellulose component exposed after the defibrillation of straw fiber can be further combined with the epoxy group. Firstly, the degree of defibrillation of straw fiber under three different pretreatment methods of acid, alkali and moist heat treatment was explored, and a control test was conducted with untreated straw fiber, which showed that the defibrillation of the straw fiber after alkali treatment was better than the other two methods. Secondly, to prove the comprehensive effect of the pretreatment method and straw fiber filling amount on the composite material performance, this paper carried out a tensile, bending, density and water absorption test. The results showed that when the straw fiber filling was 15%, the best performance of the composites was achieved by the alkali treatment, with tensile strength and tensile modulus reaching 1.89 KN and 3.92 MPa, bending strength and bending modulus reaching 2.00 KN and 81.65 MPa, average water absorption reaching 2.77%, and density reaching 0.957 g/cm3. Finally, the results were verified using Image J software was used for verification. After comparison, the material meets the basic requirements of high-density fiberboard material and provides a reference for preparing straw epoxy resin composites.
All-Solution-Processed Quantum Dot Light-Emitting Diode Using Phosphomolybdic Acid as Hole Injection Layer
Authors: Hwang Jeong Ha , Seo Eunyong , Park Sangwook , Lee Kyungjae , Kim Dong Hyun , Lee Seok Hyoung , Kwon Yong Woo , Roh Jeongkyun , Lim Jaehoon , Lee Donggu
Published: February 2023

In this study, we investigate phosphomolybdic acid (PMA), which allows solution processing of quantum dot light-emitting diodes. With its low cost, easy solution processes, and excellent physical and optical properties, PMA is a potential candidate as the hole injection layer (HIL) in optoelectronic devices. We evaluate the physical and electrical properties of PMA using various solvents. The surface morphology of the PMA film was improved using a solvent with appropriate boiling points, surface tension, and viscosity to form a smooth, pinhole-free film. The energy level was regulated according to the solvent, and PMA with the appropriate electronic structure provided balanced charge carrier transport in quantum dot electroluminescent (QD-EL) devices with enhanced efficiency. A device using PMA dissolved in cyclohexanone was demonstrated to exhibit improved efficiency compared to a device using PEDOT:PSS, which is a conventional solution HIL. However, the stability of PMA was slightly poorer than PEDOT:PSS; there needs to be further investigation.
Residual Bone Height and New Bone Formation after Maxillary Sinus Augmentation Procedure Using Biomaterials: A Network Meta-Analysis of Clinical Trials
Authors: Khijmatgar Shahnavaz , Del Fabbro Massimo , Tumedei Margherita , Testori Tiziano , Cenzato Niccolò , Tartaglia Gianluca Martino
Published: February 2023

Background. Different factors may affect new bone formation following maxillary sinus floor augmentation for the rehabilitation of posterior edentulous maxilla. The purpose of this study was to determine the influence of residual bone height (RBH) on new bone formation after lateral sinus augmentation utilizing different biomaterials, through a network meta-analysis (NMA). Methods. PUBMED, Scopus, and Web of Science electronic databases were searched until 31 December 2022 to obtain relevant articles. A hand search was also conducted. Randomised controlled studies on maxillary sinus augmentation comparing different grafting materials in patients with atrophic posterior maxilla, in need of prosthetic rehabilitation, were included. The risk of bias was assessed following the guidelines of the Cochrane Collaboration. The primary outcome was new bone formation (NBF), assessed histomorphometrically. The statistical analysis was performed by splitting the data according to RBH (<4 mm and ≥4 mm). Results. A total of 67 studies were eligible for conducting NMA. Overall, in the included studies, 1955 patients were treated and 2405 sinus augmentation procedures were performed. The biomaterials used were grouped into: autogenous bone (Auto), xenografts (XG), allografts (AG), alloplasts (AP), bioactive agents (Bio), hyaluronic acid (HA), and combinations of these. An inconsistency factor (IF) seen in the entire loop of the XG, AP, and Bio+AP was found to be statistically significant. The highest-ranked biomaterials for the <4 mm RBH outcome were XG+AG, XG+AP, and Auto. Similarly, the surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) of biomaterials for ≥4 mm RBH was Auto, Bio+XG, and XG+Auto. Conclusion. There is no grafting biomaterial that is consistently performing better than others. The performance of the materials in terms of NBF may depend on the RBH. While choosing a biomaterial, practitioners should consider both patient-specific aspects and sinus clinical characteristics.
Effect of Heat Treatment on Creep Deformation and Fracture Properties for a Coarse-Grained Inconel 718 Manufactured by Directed Energy Deposition
Authors: Li Ying , Podaný Pavel , Koukolíková Martina , Džugan Jan , Krajňák Tomáš , Veselý Jozef , Raghavan Srinivasan
Published: February 2023

The creep properties of a laser-directed energy deposition (L-DED) technique manufactured Inconel 718 (IN718) was investigated at 650 °C/700 MPa. Microstructure and creep properties of L-DED IN718 samples were tailored by various post heat treatments involving homogenization heat treatment with temperature ranging from 1080 to 1180 °C + double aging and hot isostatic pressing (HIP). Microstructural changes and their influence on the creep behavior and fracture mechanism were observed and discussed. The results show that L-DED sample heat treated by a simple double aging exhibits a 49% increase in creep lifetime tr and a comparable creep elongation ɛf when compared to the wrought material, due to the reserved coarse dislocation cell substructure from the L-DED process. The loss of dislocation cell structure and the coarsening of grains at higher temperature of heat treatments contributes to a shorter tr, εf, but faster ε̇min (minimum creep rate). The present work demonstrates that a simultaneous improvement of creep strength and creep elongation can be achieved in the case of a coarse-grained L-DED IN718 by a double aging treatment which can preserve both the strengthening precipitates and an appropriate size of dislocation cells.
Aerodynamic Optimization and Mechanism Investigation on Performance Improvements in a Transonic Compressor Cascade
Authors: Meng Fanjie , Gong Chaoxuan , Li Kunhang , Xiong Jin , Li Jingyin , Guo Penghua
Published: February 2023

In this paper, a transonic compressor cascade was optimized to improve its aerodynamic performance. A new blade parameterization method with 16 control variables was first proposed to fit the shapes of the suction and the pressure side, as well as the leading edge. Then, the Kriging surrogate-model-based genetic algorithm (GA) was used to optimize the performance of the transonic cascade. The optimization algorithm is effective in reducing the total pressure loss while extending the working range of the cascade. The results show that the total pressure loss coefficient could be reduced by 11% at the best airflow angle and the working range could be extended by 6.9% for the optimized cascade in two-dimensional simulations. Similar improvement results could also be obtained in the simulations of their linear cascade cases. Detailed analyses show that the relative maximum thickness positions of the optimized blades move forward by about 10% to the leading edge, and the radii of curvature of the front half of the suction and pressure surfaces increase, compared with the initial blade. This makes the front half of the optimized blades look more closely like a wedge. Consequently, the passage shock strength is reduced and the shock changes from the passage normal shock to oblique shock. The weakened shock strength leads to the disappearance of the flow separation caused by the shock boundary layer interaction on the suction surfaces of the optimized blades, and results in a narrowed wake width at the outlet section.
Utility of Particle Swarm Optimization in Statistical Population Reconstruction
Authors: Berg Sergey S.
Published: February 2023

Statistical population reconstruction models based on maximum likelihood and minimum chi-square objective functions provide a robust and versatile approach to estimating the demographic dynamics of harvested populations of wildlife. These models employ numerical optimization techniques to determine which set of model parameters best describes observed age-at-harvest, catch-effort, and other auxiliary field data. Although numerous optimization methods have been used in the past, the benefits of using particle swarm optimization (PSO) have yet to be explored. Using a harvested population of North American river otter (Lontra canadensis) in Indiana as a case study, we investigated the performance of population reconstruction using particle swarm optimization, spectral projected gradient (SPG), Nelder–Mead, and Broyden–Fletcher–Goldfarb–Shanno (BFGS) methods. We used Monte Carlo studies to simulate populations under a wide range of conditions to compare the relative performance of population reconstruction models using each of the four optimization methods. We found that using particle swarm optimization consistently and significantly improved model stability and precision when compared with other numerical optimization methods that may be used in statistical population reconstruction. Given that these models are frequently used to guide management decisions and set harvest limits, we encourage management agencies to adopt this more precise method of estimating model parameters and corresponding population abundance. These results illustrate the benefits of using particle swarm optimization, caution against relying on the results of population reconstruction based on optimization methods that are highly dependent on initial conditions, and reinforce the need to ensure model convergence to a global rather than a local maximum.
Graph Convergence, Algorithms, and Approximation of Common Solutions of a System of Generalized Variational Inclusions and Fixed-Point Problems
Authors: Balooee Javad , Chang Shih-Sen , Wang Lin , Zhang Yu , Ma Zhao-Li
Published: February 2023

In this paper, under some new appropriate conditions imposed on the parameters and mappings involved in the proximal mapping associated with a general H-monotone operator, its Lipschitz continuity is proved and an estimate of its Lipschitz constant is computed. The main contribution of this work is the establishment of a new equivalence relationship between the graph convergence of a sequence of general strongly H-monotone mappings and their associated proximal mappings, respectively, to a given general strongly H-monotone mapping and its associated proximal mapping by using the notions of graph convergence and proximal mapping concerning a general strongly H-monotone mapping. By employing the concept of proximal mapping relating to general strongly H-monotone mapping, some iterative algorithms are proposed, and as an application of the obtained equivalence relationship mentioned above, a convergence theorem for approximating a common element of the set of solutions of a system of generalized variational inclusions involving general strongly H-monotone mappings and the set of fixed points of an ({an},{bn},ϕ)-total uniformly L-Lipschitzian mapping is proved. It is significant to emphasize that our results are new and improve and generalize many known corresponding results.
Hereditary Women’s Cancer: Management and Risk-Reducing Surgery
Authors: Conte Carmine , Pelligra Silvia , Sarpietro Giuseppe , Montana Giuseppe Dario , Della Corte Luigi , Bifulco Giuseppe , Martinelli Canio , Ercoli Alfredo , Palumbo Marco , Cianci Stefano
Published: February 2023

Hereditary women’s syndromes due to inherited mutations result in an elevated risk of developing gynecological cancers over the lifetime of affected carriers. The BRCA 1 and 2 mutations, Lynch syndrome (LS), and mutations in rare hereditary syndromes increase this risk and require more effective management of these patients based on surveillance and prophylactic surgery. Patients need counseling regarding risk-reducing surgery (RRS) and the time required to perform it, considering the adverse effects of premenopausal surgery and the hormonal effect on quality of life, bone density, sexual activity, and cardiological and vascular diseases. Risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy (RRSO) is the gold standard for BRCA-mutated patients. An open question is that of endometrial cancer (EC) risk in patients with BRCA1/2 mutation to justify prophylactic hysterectomy during RRSO surgical procedures. RRS provides a 90–95% risk reduction for ovarian and breast cancer in women who are mutation carriers, but the role of prophylactic hysterectomy is underinvestigated in this setting of patients. In this review, we evaluate the management of the most common hereditary syndromes and the benefits of risk-reducing surgery, particularly exploring the role of prophylactic hysterectomy.
Sodium Super Ionic Conductor-Type Hybrid Electrolytes for High Performance Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Sung Po-Yu , Lu Mi , Hsieh Chien-Te , Ashraf Gandomi Yasser , Gu Siyong , Liu Wei-Ren
Published: February 2023

Composite solid electrolytes (CSEs), composed of sodium superionic conductor (NASICON)-type Li1+xAlxTi2-x(PO4)3 (LATP), poly (vinylidene fluoride-hexafluoro propylene) (PVDF-HFP), and lithium bis (trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (LiTFSI) salt, are designed and fabricated for lithium-metal batteries. The effects of the key design parameters (i.e., LiTFSI/LATP ratio, CSE thickness, and carbon content) on the specific capacity, coulombic efficiency, and cyclic stability were systematically investigated. The optimal CSE configuration, superior specific capacity (~160 mAh g−1), low electrode polarization (~0.12 V), and remarkable cyclic stability (a capacity retention of 86.8%) were achieved during extended cycling (>200 cycles). In addition, with the optimal CSE structure, a high ionic conductivity (~2.83 × 10−4 S cm−1) was demonstrated at an ambient temperature. The CSE configuration demonstrated in this work can be employed for designing highly durable CSEs with enhanced ionic conductivity and significantly reduced interfacial electrolyte/electrode resistance.
Investigation of Causal Relationships between Printing Parameters, Pore Properties and Porosity in Laser Powder Bed Fusion
Authors: Zhao Rong , Shmatok Andrii , Fischer Ralf , Prorok Barton C.
Published: February 2023

This work reports on employing X-ray computed tomography (XCT) and optical microscopy to investigate the causal relationships between printing parameters, pore properties, and porosity in 316L stainless steel samples additively manufactured by Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF). The porosity is very similar for both investigation methods. XCT provides more accurate results for large lack of fusion pores, while optical results are more accurate for small keyhole pores. These results were employed to develop mathematical models to determine how printing parameters influence pore properties and overall porosity. The developed optical and XCT mathematical models reveal that power is the most significant factor affecting pore properties and overall porosity. Pore number and mean diameter decrease and sphericity increases with increasing power. Overall porosity is negatively correlated with power, indicating that the higher the power, the lower the overall porosity. Attention should also be paid to the quadratic effects of power, velocity and hatch spacing on porosity, revealing an inverse change in porosity after a certain threshold. Power interacts with velocity and hatch spacing, suggesting that changes in power affect the influence of velocity and hatch spacing on porosity, and vice versa. The interaction of velocity and hatch spacing is not significant. Both models successfully predicted optimal printing parameter sets as validated by experimental measurements.
Hyperthyroidism and Wnt Signaling Pathway: Influence on Bone Remodeling
Authors: Mudri Dunja , Bilić Ćurčić Ines , Meštrović Lucija , Mihaljević Ivica , Kizivat Tomislav
Published: February 2023

Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disease of the thyroid gland, characterized by increased production of thyroid hormones, which can affect many different organ systems in the body. Among other problems, it can cause disorders of the skeletal system, shortening the bone remodeling cycle and causing a decrease in bone density. The Wnt cascade signaling pathway and the β-catenin, as a part of the canonical Wnt pathway, also play roles in maintaining bone mass. Inhibition of the Wnt pathway can cause bone loss, and its stimulation can increase it. The Wnt signaling pathway influences the effectiveness of thyroid hormones by affecting receptors for thyroid hormones and deiodinase, while thyroid hormones can change levels of β-catenin within the cell cytoplasm. This indicates that the Wnt pathway and thyroid hormone levels, including hyperthyroidism, are linked and may act together to change bone density. In this review article, we attempt to explain the interplay between thyroid hormones and the Wnt pathway on bone density, with a focus on directions for further research and treatment options.
Forces Governing the Transport of Pathogenic and Nonpathogenic Escherichia coli in Nitrogen and Magnesium Doped Biochar Amended Sand Columns
Authors: Quinn Katherine , Mood Sohrab Haghighi , Cervantes Elizabeth , Perez Manuel Garcia , Abu-Lail Nehal I.
Published: February 2023

Background: Access to safe drinking water remains a global issue with fecal indicator bacteria being major pollutants. Biochars offer low-cost adsorbents for bacterial pathogens. A fundamental understanding of how biochars interact with bacterial pathogens is essential to designing effective biofilters. Methods: Water-saturated sand columns amended with Magnesium and Nitrogen-doped biochars produced by pyrolysis at 400, 500, 600, and 700 °C were used to Quantify the transport of pathogenic Escherichia coli O157:H7 and nonpathogenic E. coli k12 strains in porous media. Measured data were modeled using DLVO theory of colloidal stability. were explored. Results: (1) Biochar is hydrophobic while sand and bacteria are hydrophilic; (2) all Gibbs free energy values quantified between E. coli O157:H7 and biochar were negative except for biochar produced at 700 °C; (3) all types of forces investigated (van der Waals, electrostatic, and acid-base interactions) played a role in governing the interactions between bacteria and biochar. Conclusions: (1) Adding doped biochar to sand at a 2% weight ratio enhanced the retention of bacterial cells in the sand/biochar columns; (2) bacterial transport is strain-dependent and mediated by various types of forces resulting from interactions between the various functional groups displayed on bacteria and biochar/sand. Our findings emphasize the importance of monitoring biochar’s functionality to eliminate bacterial pollutants from contaminated water.
In Vitro Fermentation of Edible Mushrooms: Effects on Faecal Microbiota Characteristics of Autistic and Neurotypical Children
Authors: Saxami Georgia , Mitsou Evdokia K. , Kerezoudi Evangelia N. , Mavrouli Ioanna , Vlassopoulou Marigoula , Koutrotsios Georgios , Mountzouris Konstantinos C. , Zervakis Georgios I. , Kyriacou Adamantini
Published: February 2023

Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often suffer gastrointestinal disturbances consistent with gut microbiota (GM) alterations. Treatment with pro/prebiotics may potentially alleviate gut symptoms, but the evidence for prebiotics is scarce. This study aims to evaluate the effects of edible mushrooms (Pleurotus, Basidiomycota) and prebiotic compounds on GM composition and metabolite production in vitro, using faecal samples from autistic and non-autistic children. Specific microbial populations were enumerated after 24 h of fermentation by quantitative PCR, and the metabolic production was determined by gas chromatography. Higher levels of Prevotella spp. and Bifidobacterium spp. were measured in neurotypical children compared to ASD children. A total of 24 h fermentation of Pleurotus eryngii and P. ostreatus mushroom powder increased the levels of Bifidobacterium, while known prebiotics increased the levels of total bacteria and Bacteroides in both groups. Only P. eryngii mushrooms resulted in significantly elevated levels of total bacteria Bacteroides and Feacalibacterium prausnitzii compared to the negative control (NC) in the ASD group. Both mushrooms induced elevated levels of butyrate after 24 h of fermentation, while short-chain fructooligosaccharides induced increased levels of acetate in the ASD group, compared to NC. Overall, this study highlights the positive effect of edible mushrooms on the GM and metabolic activity of children with ASD.