bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Should Laparoscopic Complete Mesocolic Excision Be Offered to Elderly Patients to Treat Right-Sided Colon Cancer?
Authors: Mazzola Michele , Ripamonti Lorenzo , Giani Alessandro , Carnevali Pietro , Origi Matteo , Alampi BrunocDomenico , Giusti Irene , Achilli Pietro , Bertoglio Camillo Leonardo , Magistro Carmelo , Ferrari Giovanni
Published: May 2023

Background: Despite its potential oncologic benefit, complete mesocolic excision (CME) has rarely been offered to elderly patients. The present study evaluated the effect of age on postoperative outcomes among patients undergoing laparoscopic right colectomies with CME for right-sided colon cancer (RCC). Methods: Data of patients undergoing laparoscopic right colectomies with CME for RCC between 2015 and 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. Selected patients were divided into two groups: the under-80 group and the over-80 group. Surgical, pathological, and oncological outcomes among the groups were compared. Results: A total of 130 patients were selected (95 in the under-80 group and 35 in the over-80 group). No difference was found between the groups in terms of postoperative outcomes, except for median length of stay and adjuvant chemotherapy received, which were in favor of the under-80 group (5 vs. 8 days, p < 0.001 and 26.3% vs. 2.9%, p = 0.003, respectively). No difference between the groups was found regarding overall survival and disease free survival. Using multivariate analysis, only the ASA score > 2 (p = 0.01) was an independent predictor of overall complications. Conclusions: laparoscopic right colectomy with CME for RCC was safely performed in elderly patients ensuring similar oncological outcomes compared to younger patients.
A Review of Partial Information Decomposition in Algorithmic Fairness and Explainability
Authors: Dutta Sanghamitra , Hamman Faisal
Published: May 2023

Partial Information Decomposition (PID) is a body of work within information theory that allows one to quantify the information that several random variables provide about another random variable, either individually (unique information), redundantly (shared information), or only jointly (synergistic information). This review article aims to provide a survey of some recent and emerging applications of partial information decomposition in algorithmic fairness and explainability, which are of immense importance given the growing use of machine learning in high-stakes applications. For instance, PID, in conjunction with causality, has enabled the disentanglement of the non-exempt disparity which is the part of the overall disparity that is not due to critical job necessities. Similarly, in federated learning, PID has enabled the quantification of tradeoffs between local and global disparities. We introduce a taxonomy that highlights the role of PID in algorithmic fairness and explainability in three main avenues: (i) Quantifying the legally non-exempt disparity for auditing or training; (ii) Explaining contributions of various features or data points; and (iii) Formalizing tradeoffs among different disparities in federated learning. Lastly, we also review techniques for the estimation of PID measures, as well as discuss some challenges and future directions.
Forecasting Strong Subsequent Earthquakes in Greece with the Machine Learning Algorithm NESTORE
Authors: Anyfadi Eleni-Apostolia , Gentili Stefania , Brondi Piero , Vallianatos Filippos
Published: May 2023

Aftershocks of earthquakes can destroy many urban infrastructures and exacerbate the damage already inflicted upon weak structures. Therefore, it is important to have a method to forecast the probability of occurrence of stronger earthquakes in order to mitigate their effects. In this work, we applied the NESTORE machine learning approach to Greek seismicity from 1995 to 2022 to forecast the probability of a strong aftershock. Depending on the magnitude difference between the mainshock and the strongest aftershock, NESTORE classifies clusters into two types, Type A and Type B. Type A clusters are the most dangerous clusters, characterized by a smaller difference. The algorithm requires region-dependent training as input and evaluates performance on an independent test set. In our tests, we obtained the best results 6 h after the mainshock, as we correctly forecasted 92% of clusters corresponding to 100% of Type A clusters and more than 90% of Type B clusters. These results were also obtained thanks to an accurate analysis of cluster detection in a large part of Greece. The successful overall results show that the algorithm can be applied in this area. The approach is particularly attractive for seismic risk mitigation due to the short time required for forecasting.
Visibility Graph Analysis of the Seismic Activity of Three Areas of the Cocos Plate Mexican Subduction Where the Last Three Large Earthquakes (M > 7) Occurred in 2017 and 2022
Authors: Ramírez-Rojas Alejandro , Flores-Márquez Elsa Leticia , Vargas Carlos Alejandro
Published: May 2023

The understanding of the dynamical behavior of seismic phenomena is currently an open problem, mainly because seismic series can be considered to be produced by phenomena exhibiting dynamic phase transitions; that is, with some complexity. For this purpose, the Middle America Trench in central Mexico is considered a natural laboratory for examining subduction because of its heterogenous natural structure. In this study, the Visibility Graph method was applied to study the seismic activity of three regions within the Cocos plate: the Tehuantepec Isthmus, the Flat slab and Michoacan, each one with a different level of seismicity. The method maps time series into graphs, and it is possible to connect the topological properties of the graph with the dynamical features underlying the time series. The seismicity analyzed was monitored in the three areas studied between 2010 and 2022. At the Flat Slab and Tehuantepec Isthmus, two intense earthquakes occurred on 7 and 19 September 2017, respectively, and, on 19 September 2022, another one occurred at Michoacan. The aim of this study was to determine the dynamical features and the possible differences between the three areas by applying the following method. First, the time evolution of the a- and b-values in the Gutenberg–Richter law was analyzed, followed by the relationship between the seismic properties and topological features using the VG method, the k–M slope and the characterization of the temporal correlations from the γ-exponent of the power law distribution, P(k) ∼ k−γ, and its relationship with the Hurst parameter, which allowed us to identify the correlation and persistence of each zone.
Modelling Optimal Capital Structure in Gas and Oil Sector by Applying Simulation Theory and Programming Language of Python (Qatar Gas Transport Company)
Authors: Kulikov Andrey , Alabed Alkader Naief , Panaedova Galina , Ogorodnikov Aleksandr , Rebeka Evgenii
Published: May 2023

The goal of this study is to optimize a company’s capital structure by modelling and programming the required equations in the components of weighted average cost of capital. This process will be carried out in the programming language Python, and then Monte Carlo simulation will be applied to increase the number of combinations of debt and equity in the capital structure and obtain more accurate results on the Qatar gas transport company. Throughout various scenarios and outcomes, the study seeks to determine the ideal capital structure that reduces both the firm’s weighted average cost of capital and the risk to which the Qatar gas transport company will be exposed. The suggested method offers a practical instrument for managers and investors to make well-informed decisions when they apply financial strategies to optimize the company’s financial performance. Debt and equity are considered the main parts in the capital structure in every company, and if we can solve the problems connected to these two parts, we can optimize performance. The code of the programming language (Python) used in this study depends on logical discussion to compare different results. This research also will pay attention to the whole probabilities of debt and equity ratios in the Qatar Gas Transport Company. This research considers more variables in the analysis to obtain more accurate results about the firm’s financial status. The results in this research show that the cost of capital in the Qatar Gas Transport Company will be reduced to 5% (currently 6%) if the percentage of debt and equity in the capital structure is changed to 79% and 21%, respectively. In comparison with the other 9999 components of capital structure, this ratio (79%, 21%) will be the optimal one. The scatterplot reflects that the more repeated values of weighted average cost of capital were located around the value of 5%. This fact can enable us to conclude that the minimum value of WACC is 5%, even though there are lower values of WACC than 5%, but at a lower frequency than that of values of 5%. The study’s results are anticipated to introduce additional findings to help other authors to understand the mechanism of optimizing the capital structure and reduce the risk in the gas and oil sector.
Effect of a Cu-Ferrite Catalyzed DPF on the Ultrafine Particle Emissions from a Light-Duty Diesel Engine
Authors: Meloni Eugenio , Rossomando Bruno , De Falco Gianluigi , Sirignano Mariano , Arsie Ivan , Palma Vincenzo
Published: May 2023

The emissions of diesel engines in terms of particulate matter are limited all over the world. One possible solution for reaching the target imposed by the various regulations could be the adoption of a catalytic diesel particulate filter (CDPF). Nevertheless, the effect of CDPFs on the particle size distributions (PSDs) during the regeneration process needs to be deeply investigated. Therefore, this research work is focused on a detailed PSD analysis during the active regeneration of a 30 %wt CuFe2O4 loaded CDPF at the exhaust of an L-D diesel engine to reach a more complete understanding of the filter behavior. The results of the experimental tests evidence that at the CDPF outlet, compared to a standard DPF: (i) during the start-up of the regeneration, the particle emissions are three orders of magnitude lower and remain two orders of magnitude lower for particle sizes larger than 50 nm; (ii) the PSDs measured in the time range of 200–450 s exhibit the bimodality observed during the accumulation phase, with a peak that is three orders of magnitude lower; (iii) at the end of the regeneration, the PN distribution exhibits reductions of two and three orders of magnitude for particle sizes of 5 nm and above 50 nm, respectively.
Evaluating the Techno-Economic Effect of Pricing and Consumption Parameters on the Power-to-Energy Ratio for Sizing Photovoltaic-Battery Systems: An Assessment of Prosumers in the Mediterranean Area
Authors: Chatzigeorgiou Nikolas , Theocharides Spyros , Makrides George , Georghiou George
Published: May 2023

The momentous deployment of photovoltaic (PV) installations in modern times converted schemes utilised to support behind-the-meter systems to compensation mechanisms promoting self-consumption for all prosumer types. Moreover, their incorporation with battery storage systems (BSS) is expected to remove technical counter effects and assist in more self-sufficient prosumer sites. As electricity prices are continuously rising, negatively impacting consumers, we intend for this study to serve as a guideline for residential PV-BSS sizing. Additionally, its objective is to provide an operational and economic evaluation of PV-BSS by considering relevant schemes and concentrating on the most effective parameters. This study contributes to the literature with a holistic methodology for sizing and techno-economically evaluating residential systems in the Mediterranean area that is replicable for any state or consumption class. Simulations addressing PV-BSS performance were exploited with the use of real (high-resolution) data, estimating particular sizing, operational, and techno-economic indicators during the entire system lifetime within the framework of a techno-economic analysis. The simulations calculated the initial expenditure, the yearly revenues from the PV-BSS operation, and the corresponding expenses, contrasting them on a year-to-year basis. The results demonstrate that for the five countries addressed as case studies, PV-BSS sizing is significantly impacted by the supporting scheme regarding maximum financial gains. A likeness amid the ideal power-to-energy ratio (PER) indicator of every addressed state for the examined parameters (electricity price and consumption class) was demonstrated for the full self-consumption scheme, whereas for net billing, intercountry discrepancies and generally higher optimal PER values were observed. Finally, an increase in electricity prices or consumption generally decreases optimal PER; therefore, a recommendation is provided for the avoidance of inessential expenditures in surplus system component sizes.
Static and Dynamic Magnetic Pull in Modular Spoke-Type Permanent Magnet Motors
Authors: Sun Shaonan , Feng Guihong , Li Yan , Zhang Bingyi
Published: May 2023

This work studied the static magnetic pull of a modular spoke-type permanent magnet motor (MSTPMM) with no rotor eccentricity during the motor’s final assembly process and its dynamic magnetic pull during different motor operating states. A new final assembly scheme was proposed to significantly reduce the static magnetic pull during the final assembly process of the motor. The methods required to reduce the unbalanced radial magnetic pull of the whole stator, which is caused by partial stator module operation, were also studied. Firstly, the structure of the MSTPMM was examined. The static magnetic pull that occurred with the implementation of the two motor final assembly methods was studied in order to prove the effectiveness of reducing the maximum static magnetic pull. Moreover, the maximum magnetic pull during the assembly process was also observed. Then, the dynamic magnetic pull was studied with different motor operating states: no load, on load, and partial stator module operation. To solve the unbalanced radial magnetic pull of the whole stator, which is caused by partial stator module operation, methods of changing the angle between the stator current vector and the q axis (Ψ) or the d axis current (id) were also studied.
In Situ Stress Determination Based on Acoustic Image Logs and Borehole Measurements in the In-Adaoui and Bourarhat Hydrocarbon Fields, Eastern Algeria
Authors: Baouche Rafik , Sen Souvik , Radwan Ahmed E. , Abd El Aal Ahmed
Published: May 2023

The study of in situ stress from image logs is a key factor for understanding regional stresses and the exploitation of hydrocarbon resources. This work presents a comprehensive geomechanical analysis of two eastern Algerian hydrocarbon fields to infer the magnitudes of principal stress components and stress field orientation. Acoustic image logs and borehole measurements were used in this research to aid our understanding of regional stress and field development. The studied In-Adaoui and Bourarhat fields encompass a combined thickness of 3050 m of Paleozoic and Mesozoic stratigraphy, with the primary reservoir facies in the Ordovician interval. The Ordovician sandstone reservoir interval indicates an average Poisson’s ratio (v) of 0.3, 100–150 MPa UCS, and 27–52 GPa Young’s modulus (E). Direct formation pressure measurements indicate that the sandstone reservoir is in a hydrostatic pore pressure regime. Density-derived vertical stress had a 1.1 PSI/feet gradient. Minimum horizontal stress modeled from both Poisson’s ratio and an effective stress ratio-based approach yielded an average 0.82 PSI/feet gradient, as validated with the leak-off test data. Drilling-induced tensile fractures (DITF) and compressive failures, i.e., breakouts (BO), were identified from acoustic image logs. On the basis of the DITF criterion, the maximum horizontal stress gradient was found to be 1.57–1.71 PSI/feet, while the BO width-derived gradient was 1.27–1.37 PSI/feet. Relative stress magnitudes indicate a strike-slip stress regime. A mean SHMax orientation of N130°E (NW-SE) was interpreted from the wellbore failures, classified as B-quality stress indicators following the World Stress Map (WSM) ranking scheme. The inferred stress magnitude and orientation were in agreement with the regional trend of the western Mediterranean region and provide a basis for field development and hydraulic fracturing in the low-permeable reservoir. On the basis of the geomechanical assessments, drilling and reservoir development strategies are discussed, and optimization opportunities are identified.
Evaluation of Efficiency for Miniscale Thermoelectric Converter under the Influence of Electrical and Thermal Resistance of Contacts
Authors: Vikhor Lyudmyla , Kotsur Maxim
Published: May 2023

Mass-produced thermoelectric modules are mainly fabricated with Bi2Te3-based materials. Due to the limited world reserves and the high price of tellurium, it must be saved. The miniaturization of thermoelectric converters is one of the modern trends to diminish the use of tellurium, reduce the cost of modules and expand the range of their applications. The main disadvantage of miniature thermoelectric converters operating in cooling or generating modes is their low energy efficiency, caused by the effect of electrical and thermal resistances of contacts, interconnectors and insulating plates. We propose an improved method for evaluating the maximum efficiency that takes into consideration the impact of these unwanted resistances. This method can also be used to design the modules with the optimal structure for cooling and energy generation, and not only to study their performance. The effect of undesirable electrical and thermal resistances on the maximum efficiency of cooling and generating converters made of Bi2Te3-based materials is analyzed. It is shown that the efficiency of miniature modules can be significantly improved if these resistances are reduced to their rational values. The decrease in electrical contact resistance is the predominant factor. The rational values to which it is advisable to decrease the electrical contact resistance have been determined. In the development of miniscale module technology, it is necessary to focus on such rational contact resistance values.
The Influence of Addition of Fly Ash from Astana Heat and Power Plants on the Properties of the Polystyrene Concrete
Authors: Niyazbekova Rimma , Mukhambetov Gabit , Tlegenov Rassul , Aldabergenova Saule , Shansharova Lazzat , Mikhalchenko Vasiliy , Bembenek Michał
Published: May 2023

Due to the constant increase in prices for energy resources, as well as the reduction in non-renewable resources in most developed countries of the world, the energy consumption standards of buildings are constantly decreasing, and the requirements for the level of thermal insulation of building envelopes are increasing. The increasing requirements in the level of thermal insulation of enclosing structures make the issues of improving and developing new materials and products become more urgent. Polystyrene concrete has good high-thermal and sound-absorbing properties. This serves as a means of reducing costs, improving thermal insulation, reducing the dead load (weight) on the building and outside, among many other advantages. However, concrete made with polystyrene foam as a substitute for large aggregates has insufficient strength, due to the fact that the cement has low adhesion to the polystyrene foam. Based on the research of scientists and authors on the possibility of using industrial waste, it was assumed that the addition of fly ash to the composition would strengthen the matrix and the degree of compression of the polymers by the cement matrix as a result of the presence of nanoparticles in the fly ash and their positive effect on the structure and properties of the composition. The aim of the study was to develop a heat-insulating polystyrene concrete based on a binder using fly ash and to investigate its physical and technical properties. The properties of fly ash have been studied for the purpose of safe use in mixtures to increase strength properties and improve adhesion to polymers. The involvement of industrial waste from the ashes of coal from Kazakhstani deposits will contribute to the ecological improvement of the environment of the megacities of Kazakhstan. The effect obtained from the optimal combination of the characteristics for a building material is the improved physical and mechanical properties of heat-insulating materials.
Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis on Burnout Owing to Perfectionism in Elite Athletes Based on the Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale (MPS) and Athlete Burnout Questionnaire (ABQ)
Authors: Yang Ji-Hye , Yang Hye-Jin , Choi Chulhwan , Bum Chul-Ho
Published: May 2023

Previous studies have shown that burnout negatively affects athletes’ mental health. To further explore this subject, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis by combining data from previous studies. This study followed the PRISMA guidelines for systematic and reliable research and completed data extraction using 10 databases and 8 keywords in December 2021. There were 93 cases of initially extracted data from the selected articles (n = 14) and the meta-analysis was conducted using the “meta” package, version 4.8-4 of R Studio 3.3.3, with data (k = 77) excluding other-oriented perfectionism data (k = 16). The results showed that self-oriented perfectionism had a negative effect on sports devaluation (SD) (ESr = −0.246, p < 0.001), and socially prescribed perfectionism had a positive effect on emotional/physical exhaustion (ESr = 0.150, p < 0.05) and SD (ESr = 0.138, p < 0.05). Furthermore, the test for publication bias showed that no groups had asymmetrical data, and four moderator analyses were conducted to prove the heterogeneity (I2) of the total effect size; however, there was no difference among groups (QB), thereby resulting in unexplained variance. Consequently, this study presents variable data that determine the effects of perfectionism and burnout on elite athletes.
Genome-Wide Characterization of Light-Regulated Gene Expression in Botrytis cinerea Reveals Underlying Complex Photobiology
Authors: Pérez-Lara Gabriel , Olivares-Yañez Consuelo , van Bakel Harm , Larrondo Luis F. , Canessa Paulo
Published: May 2023

Botrytis cinerea is a necrotrophic fungus characterized mainly by its wide host range of infected plants. The deletion of the white-collar-1 gene (bcwcl1), which encodes for a blue-light receptor/transcription factor, causes a decrease in virulence, particularly when assays are conducted in the presence of light or photocycles. However, despite ample characterization, the extent of the light-modulated transcriptional responses regulated by BcWCL1 remains unknown. In this study, pathogen and pathogen:host RNA-seq analyses, conducted during non-infective in vitro plate growth and when infecting Arabidopsis thaliana leaves, respectively, informed on the global gene expression patterns after a 60 min light pulse on the wild-type B05.10 or ∆bcwcl1 B. cinerea strains. The results revealed a complex fungal photobiology, where the mutant did not react to the light pulse during its interaction with the plant. Indeed, when infecting Arabidopsis, no photoreceptor-encoding genes were upregulated upon the light pulse in the ∆bcwcl1 mutant. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in B. cinerea under non-infecting conditions were predominantly related to decreased energy production in response to the light pulse. In contrast, DEGs during infection significantly differ in the B05.10 strain and the ∆bcwcl1 mutant. Upon illumination at 24 h post-infection in planta, a decrease in the B. cinerea virulence-associated transcripts was observed. Accordingly, after a light pulse, biological functions associated with plant defense appear enriched among light-repressed genes in fungus-infected plants. Taken together, our results show the main transcriptomic differences between wild-type B. cinerea B05.10 and ∆bcwcl1 after a 60 min light pulse when growing saprophytically on a Petri dish and necrotrophically over A. thaliana.
How Three Self-Secreted Biofilm Exopolysaccharides of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Psl, Pel, and Alginate, Can Each Be Exploited for Antibiotic Adjuvant Effects in Cystic Fibrosis Lung Infection
Authors: Chung Jonathan , Eisha Shafinaz , Park Subin , Morris Amanda J. , Martin Isaac
Published: May 2023

In cystic fibrosis (CF), pulmonary infection with Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a cause of increased morbidity and mortality, especially in patients for whom infection becomes chronic and there is reliance on long-term suppressive therapies. Current antimicrobials, though varied mechanistically and by mode of delivery, are inadequate not only due to their failure to eradicate infection but also because they do not halt the progression of lung function decline over time. One of the reasons for this failure is thought to be the biofilm mode of growth of P. aeruginosa, wherein self-secreted exopolysaccharides (EPSs) provide physical protection against antibiotics and an array of niches with resulting metabolic and phenotypic heterogeneity. The three biofilm-associated EPSs secreted by P. aeruginosa (alginate, Psl, and Pel) are each under investigation and are being exploited in ways that potentiate antibiotics. In this review, we describe the development and structure of P. aeruginosa biofilms before examining each EPS as a potential therapeutic target for combating pulmonary infection with P. aeruginosa in CF, with a particular focus on the current evidence for these emerging therapies and barriers to bringing these therapies into clinic.
Epigenetic Alterations in DCIS Progression: What Can lncRNAs Teach Us?
Authors: Petrone Igor , Santos Everton Cruz dos , Binato Renata , Abdelhay Eliana
Published: May 2023

Some transcripts that are not translated into proteins can be encoded by the mammalian genome. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are noncoding RNAs that can function as decoys, scaffolds, and enhancer RNAs and can regulate other molecules, including microRNAs. Therefore, it is essential that we obtain a better understanding of the regulatory mechanisms of lncRNAs. In cancer, lncRNAs function through several mechanisms, including important biological pathways, and the abnormal expression of lncRNAs contributes to breast cancer (BC) initiation and progression. BC is the most common type of cancer among women worldwide and has a high mortality rate. Genetic and epigenetic alterations that can be regulated by lncRNAs may be related to early events of BC progression. Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is a noninvasive BC that is considered an important preinvasive BC early event because it can progress to invasive BC. Therefore, the identification of predictive biomarkers of DCIS-invasive BC progression has become increasingly important in an attempt to optimize the treatment and quality of life of patients. In this context, this review will address the current knowledge about the role of lncRNAs in DCIS and their potential contribution to the progression of DCIS to invasive BC.
Prenatal Fumonisin Exposure Impairs Bone Development via Disturbances in the OC/Leptin and RANKL/RANK/OPG Systems in Weaned Rat Offspring
Authors: Tomaszewska Ewa , Rudyk Halyna , Muszyński Siemowit , Hułas-Stasiak Monika , Leszczyński Norbert , Mielnik-Błaszczak Maria , Donaldson Janine , Dobrowolski Piotr
Published: May 2023

The goal of the current study was to examine the effects of prenatal exposure to fumonisins (FBs) on bone properties and metabolism in weaned rat offspring divided into groups intoxicated with FBs at either 0 (the 0 FB group), 60 (the 60 FB group), or 90 mg/kg b.w. 0 (the 90 FB group). Female and male offspring exposed to FBs at a dose of 60 mg/kg b.w. had heavier femora. Mechanical bone parameters changed in a sex and FBs dose-dependent manner. Growth hormone and osteoprotegerin decreased in both sexes, regardless of FBs dose. In males osteocalcin decreased, while receptor activator for nuclear factor kappa-Β ligand increased regardless of FBs dose; while in females changes were dose dependent. Leptin decreased in both male FBs-intoxicated groups, bone alkaline phosphatase decreased only in the 60 FB group. Matrix metalloproteinase-8 protein expression increased in both female FBs-intoxicated groups and decreased in male 90 FB group. Osteoprotegerin and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 2 protein expression decreased in males, regardless of FBs dose, while nuclear factor kappa-Β ligand expression increased only in the 90 FB group. The disturbances in bone metabolic processes seemed to result from imbalances in the RANKL/RANK/OPG and the OC/leptin systems.
Injured Endothelial Cell: A Risk Factor for Pulmonary Fibrosis
Authors: Zhao Weiming , Wang Lan , Wang Yaxuan , Yuan Hongmei , Zhao Mengxia , Lian Hui , Ma Shuaichen , Xu Kai , Li Zhongzheng , Yu Guoying
Published: May 2023

The pathological features of pulmonary fibrosis (PF) are the abnormal activation and proliferation of myofibroblasts and the extraordinary deposition of the extracellular matrix (ECM). However, the pathogenesis of PF is still indistinct. In recent years, many researchers have realized that endothelial cells had a crucial role in the development of PF. Studies have demonstrated that about 16% of the fibroblasts in the lung tissue of fibrotic mice were derived from endothelial cells. Endothelial cells transdifferentiated into mesenchymal cells via the endothelial–mesenchymal transition (E(nd)MT), leading to the excessive proliferation of endothelial-derived mesenchymal cells and the accumulation of fibroblasts and ECM. This suggested that endothelial cells, a significant component of the vascular barrier, played an essential role in PF. Herein, this review discusses E(nd)MT and its contribution to the activation of other cells in PF, which could provide new ideas for further understanding the source and activation mechanism of fibroblasts and the pathogenesis of PF.
A Novel Blood–Brain Barrier-Penetrating and Vascular-Targeting Chimeric Peptide Inhibits Glioma Angiogenesis
Authors: Lu Lu , Wang Longkun , Zhao Lin , Liao Jing , Zhao Chunqian , Xu Xiaohan , Wang Fengshan , Zhang Xinke
Published: May 2023

The high vascularization of glioma highlights the potential value of anti-angiogenic therapeutics for glioma treatment. Previously, we designed a novel vascular-targeting and blood–brain barrier (BBB)-penetrating peptide, TAT-AT7, by attaching the cell-penetrating peptide TAT to a vascular-targeting peptide AT7, and we demonstrated that TAT-AT7 could target binding to the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR-2) and Neuropilin-1 (NRP-1), which are both highly expressed in endothelial cells. TAT-AT7 has been proven to be a good targeting peptide which could effectively deliver the secretory endostatin gene to treat glioma via the TAT-AT7-modified polyethyleneimine (PEI) nanocomplex. In the current study, we further explored the molecular binding mechanisms of TAT-AT7 to VEGFR-2 and NRP-1 and its anti-glioma effects. Accordingly, TAT-AT7 was proven to competitively bind to VEGFR-2 and NRP-1 and prevent VEGF-A165 binding to the receptors by the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) assay. TAT-AT7 inhibited endothelial cells’ proliferation, migration, invasion, and tubule formation, as well as promoted endothelial cells’ apoptosis in vitro. Further research revealed that TAT-AT7 inhibited the phosphorylation of VEGFR-2 and its downstream PLC-γ, ERK1/2, SRC, AKT, and FAK kinases. Additionally, TAT-AT7 significantly inhibited angiogenesis of zebrafish embryo. Moreover, TAT-AT7 had a better penetrating ability and could penetrate the BBB into glioma tissue and target glioma neovascularization in an orthotopic U87-glioma-bearing nude mice model, and exhibited the effect of inhibiting glioma growth and angiogenesis. Taken together, the binding and function mechanisms of TAT-AT7 were firstly revealed, and TAT-AT7 was proven to be an effective and promising peptide for the development of anti-angiogenic drugs for targeted treatment of glioma.
Genome-Wide Identification and Analysis of OsSPXs Revealed Its Genetic Influence on Cold Tolerance of Dongxiang Wild Rice (DXWR)
Authors: Huang Cheng , Wang Jilin , Wang Dianwen , Chang Jingjing , Chen Hongping , Chen Dazhou , Deng Wei , Tian Chunjie
Published: May 2023

SPX-domain proteins (small proteins with only the SPX domain) have been proven to be involved in phosphate-related signal transduction and regulation pathways. Except for OsSPX1 research showing that it plays a role in the process of rice adaptation to cold stress, the potential functions of other SPX genes in cold stress are unknown. Therefore, in this study, we identified six OsSPXs from the whole genome of DXWR. The phylogeny of OsSPXs has a strong correlation with its motif. Transcriptome data analysis showed that OsSPXs were highly sensitive to cold stress, and real-time PCR verified that the levels of OsSPX1, OsSPX2, OsSPX4, and OsSPX6 in cold-tolerant materials (DXWR) during cold treatment were higher than that of cold-sensitive rice (GZX49). The promoter region of DXWR OsSPXs contains a large number of cis-acting elements related to abiotic stress tolerance and plant hormone response. At the same time, these genes have expression patterns that are highly similar to cold-tolerance genes. This study provides useful information about OsSPXs, which is helpful for the gene-function research of DXWR and genetic improvements during breeding.
Dysfunctional Autophagy, Proteostasis, and Mitochondria as a Prelude to Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Lenin Raji Rajesh , Koh Yi Hui , Zhang Zheting , Yeo Yan Zhuang , Parikh Bhav Harshad , Seah Ivan , Wong Wendy , Su Xinyi
Published: May 2023

Retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cell dysfunction is a key driving force of AMD. RPE cells form a metabolic interface between photoreceptors and choriocapillaris, performing essential functions for retinal homeostasis. Through their multiple functions, RPE cells are constantly exposed to oxidative stress, which leads to the accumulation of damaged proteins, lipids, nucleic acids, and cellular organelles, including mitochondria. As miniature chemical engines of the cell, self-replicating mitochondria are heavily implicated in the aging process through a variety of mechanisms. In the eye, mitochondrial dysfunction is strongly associated with several diseases, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which is a leading cause of irreversible vision loss in millions of people globally. Aged mitochondria exhibit decreased rates of oxidative phosphorylation, increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and increased numbers of mitochondrial DNA mutations. Mitochondrial bioenergetics and autophagy decline during aging because of insufficient free radical scavenger systems, the impairment of DNA repair mechanisms, and reductions in mitochondrial turnover. Recent research has uncovered a much more complex role of mitochondrial function and cytosolic protein translation and proteostasis in AMD pathogenesis. The coupling of autophagy and mitochondrial apoptosis modulates the proteostasis and aging processes. This review aims to summarise and provide a perspective on (i) the current evidence of autophagy, proteostasis, and mitochondrial dysfunction in dry AMD; (ii) current in vitro and in vivo disease models relevant to assessing mitochondrial dysfunction in AMD, and their utility in drug screening; and (iii) ongoing clinical trials targeting mitochondrial dysfunction for AMD therapeutics.
Sargassum natans I Algae: An Alternative for a Greener Approach for the Synthesis of ZnO Nanostructures with Biological and Environmental Applications
Authors: López-Miranda Jose Luis , Mares-Briones Fabian , Molina Gustavo A. , González-Reyna M. A. , Velázquez-Hernández Isaac , España-Sánchez Beatriz Liliana , Silva Rodolfo , Esparza Rodrigo , Estévez Miriam
Published: May 2023

In this work, the influence of the Sargassum natans I alga extract on the morphological characteristics of synthesized ZnO nanostructures, with potential biological and environmental applications, was evaluated. For this purpose, different ZnO geometries were synthesized by the co-precipitation method, using Sargassum natans I alga extract as stabilizing agent. Four extract volumes (5, 10, 20, and 50 mL) were evaluated to obtain the different nanostructures. Moreover, a sample by chemical synthesis, without the addition of extract, was prepared. The characterization of the ZnO samples was carried out by UV-Vis spectroscopy, FT-IR spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy. The results showed that the Sargassum alga extract has a fundamental role in the stabilization process of the ZnO nanoparticles. In addition, it was shown that the increase in the Sargassum alga extract leads to preferential growth and arrangement, obtaining well-defined shaped particles. ZnO nanostructures demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory response by the in vitro egg albumin protein denaturation for biological purposes. Additionally, quantitative antibacterial analysis (AA) showed that the ZnO nanostructures synthesized with 10 and 20 mL of extract demonstrated high AA against Gram (+) S. aureus and moderate AA behavior against Gram (-) P. aeruginosa, depending on the ZnO arrangement induced by the Sargassum natans I alga extract and the nanoparticles’ concentration (ca. 3200 µg/mL). Additionally, ZnO samples were evaluated as photocatalytic materials through the degradation of organic dyes. Complete degradation of both methyl violet and malachite green were achieved using the ZnO sample synthesized with 50 mL of extract. In all cases, the well-defined morphology of ZnO induced by the Sargassum natans I alga extract played a key role in the combined biological/environmental performance.
Alexandrite and Nd:YAG Laser vs. IPL in the Management of Facial Hirsutism: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Zappia Elena , Federico Serena , Volpe Carmen , Scali Elisabetta , Nisticò Steven Paul , Bennardo Luigi
Published: May 2023

Background and objectives: Hirsutism is characterized by the abnormal presence of hair in women, which occurs in typically male areas. The causes of this symptom can be many; however, it is often associated with PCOS. Among the most effective procedures that can be used for hair removal are lasers such as the Alex laser, Nd: YAG, and IPL. Materials and Methods: This study analyzed a total of 71 patients who were treated for hirsutism caused mainly by PCOS; the remaining cases were idiopathic. The patients were divided into two groups: the first group was treated with laser sources, specifically Alex and Nd: YAG, and the second group underwent treatment with IPL. The results were evaluated six months after the last treatment. Results: Out of 71 treated patients, all patients experienced good or excellent hair reduction with greater efficacy in laser-treated patients. The incidence of side effects was low, particularly in the IPL group. Conclusions: Both laser and IPL are efficient, safe, and tolerable procedures in treating PCOS-related and idiopathic facial hirsutism, and both have been shown to have a low rate of side effects. However, the Alex and Nd: YAG lasers guaranteed better hair removal results. A more extensive clinical study will be necessary to confirm our study’s results.
“Justpeace-Diaconia” and the Challenges of Reconciliation in the Canadian Context
Authors: Kroeker Wendy
Published: May 2023

This article argues for the necessity of an approach to diaconal work that can best be defined as active and sustainable peacebuilding and reconciliation toward social transformation. It explores ways in which a diaconia specifically informed by justice and peace perspectives, called “justpeace-diaconia” by the author, should serve as an entry point for engagement into the complex dynamics towards reconciliation in the Canadian context, deepened by its colonial legacy that still pervades the social fabric. These challenges and diversities—even complicities—of perspective are viewed through the lens of peace-diaconia to examine the implications for diaconal work in Canada and explore whether meaningful journeys for reconciling and building relationships are possible.
Design of High-Sensitivity Flexible Low-Profile Spiral Antenna Sensor for GIS Built-in PD Detection
Authors: Hu Xukun , Zhang Guozhi , Liu Xiaotian , Chen Kang , Zhang Xiaoxing
Published: May 2023

Spiral antenna sensors are commonly used in partial discharge (PD) ultra-high frequency (UHF) detection in gas-insulated switchgears (GISs). However, most of the existing UHF spiral antenna sensors are based on a rigid base and balun, such as FR-4. The safe built-in installation of antenna sensors requires the complex structural transformation of GISs. To solve this problem, a low-profile spiral antenna sensor is designed based on a polyimide (PI) flexible base, and its performance is optimized by improving the clearance ratio. The simulation and measurement results show that the profile height and diameter of the designed antenna sensor is 0.3 mm and 137 mm, which is 99.7% and 25.4% smaller than the traditional spiral antenna. Under a different bending radius, the antenna sensor can maintain VSWR ≤ 5 in 650 MHz~3 GHz, and its maximum gre is up to 6.1 dB. Finally, the PD detection performance of the antenna sensor is carried out on a real 220 kV GIS. The results show that, after being built in, the PD with a weak discharge magnitude of 4.5 pC can be effectively detected by the antenna sensor, and the antenna sensor has the ability to quantify the severity of PD. In addition, through the simulation, the antenna sensor has potential for the detection of micro water in GISs.
Ensemble Siamese Network (ESN) Using ECG Signals for Human Authentication in Smart Healthcare System
Authors: Hazratifard Mehdi , Agrawal Vibhav , Gebali Fayez , Elmiligi Haytham , Mamun Mohammad
Published: May 2023

Advancements in digital communications that permit remote patient visits and condition monitoring can be attributed to a revolution in digital healthcare systems. Continuous authentication based on contextual information offers a number of advantages over traditional authentication, including the ability to estimate the likelihood that the users are who they claim to be on an ongoing basis over the course of an entire session, making it a much more effective security measure for proactively regulating authorized access to sensitive data. Current authentication models that rely on machine learning have their shortcomings, such as the difficulty in enrolling new users to the system or model training sensitivity to imbalanced datasets. To address these issues, we propose using ECG signals, which are easily accessible in digital healthcare systems, for authentication through an Ensemble Siamese Network (ESN) that can handle small changes in ECG signals. Adding preprocessing for feature extraction to this model can result in superior results. We trained this model on ECG-ID and PTB benchmark datasets, achieving 93.6% and 96.8% accuracy and 1.76% and 1.69% equal error rates, respectively. The combination of data availability, simplicity, and robustness makes it an ideal choice for smart healthcare and telehealth.
Heatmap-Guided Selective Feature Attention for Robust Cascaded Face Alignment
Authors: So Jaehyun , Han Youngjoon
Published: May 2023

Face alignment methods have been actively studied using coordinate and heatmap regression tasks. Although these regression tasks have the same objective for facial landmark detection, each task requires different valid feature maps. Therefore, it is not easy to simultaneously train two kinds of tasks with a multi-task learning network structure. Some studies have proposed multi-task learning networks with two kinds of tasks, but they do not suggest an efficient network that can train them simultaneously because of the shared noisy feature maps. In this paper, we propose a heatmap-guided selective feature attention for robust cascaded face alignment based on multi-task learning, which improves the performance of face alignment by efficiently training coordinate regression and heatmap regression. The proposed network improves the performance of face alignment by selecting valid feature maps for heatmap and coordinate regression and using the background propagation connection for tasks. This study also uses a refinement strategy that detects global landmarks through a heatmap regression task and then localizes landmarks through cascaded coordinate regression tasks. To evaluate the proposed network, we tested it on the 300W, AFLW, COFW, and WFLW datasets and obtained results that outperformed other state-of-the-art networks.
TCAD Analysis of Leakage Current and Breakdown Voltage in Small Pitch 3D Pixel Sensors
Authors: Ye Jixing , Boughedda Abderrezak , Sultan D M S , Dalla Betta Gian-Franco
Published: May 2023

Small-pitch 3D pixel sensors have been developed to equip the innermost layers of the ATLAS and CMS tracker upgrades at the High Luminosity LHC. They feature 50 × 50 and 25 × 100 μm2 geometries and are fabricated on p-type Si–Si Direct Wafer Bonded substrates of 150 μm active thickness with a single-sided process. Due to the short inter-electrode distance, charge trapping effects are strongly mitigated, making these sensors extremely radiation hard. Results from beam test measurements of 3D pixel modules irradiated at large fluences (1016neq/cm2) indeed demonstrated high efficiency at maximum bias voltages of the order of 150 V. However, the downscaled sensor structure also lends itself to high electric fields as the bias voltage is increased, meaning that premature electrical breakdown due to impact ionization is a concern. In this study, TCAD simulations incorporating advanced surface and bulk damage models are used to investigate the leakage current and breakdown behavior of these sensors. Simulations are compared with measured characteristics of 3D diodes irradiated with neutrons at fluences up to 1.5 × 1016neq/cm2. The dependence of the breakdown voltage on geometrical parameters (e.g., the n+ column radius and the gap between the n+ column tip and the highly doped p++ handle wafer) is also discussed for optimization purposes.
Deduced Respiratory Scores on COVID-19 Patients Learning from Exertion-Induced Dyspnea
Authors: Zhang Zijing , Zhou Jianlin , Conroy Thomas B. , Chung Samuel , Choi Justin , Chau Patrick , Green Daniel B. , Krieger Ana C. , Kan Edwin C.
Published: May 2023

Dyspnea is one of the most common symptoms of many respiratory diseases, including COVID-19. Clinical assessment of dyspnea relies mainly on self-reporting, which contains subjective biases and is problematic for frequent inquiries. This study aims to determine if a respiratory score in COVID-19 patients can be assessed using a wearable sensor and if this score can be deduced from a learning model based on physiologically induced dyspnea in healthy subjects. Noninvasive wearable respiratory sensors were employed to retrieve continuous respiratory characteristics with user comfort and convenience. Overnight respiratory waveforms were collected on 12 COVID-19 patients, and a benchmark on 13 healthy subjects with exertion-induced dyspnea was also performed for blind comparison. The learning model was built from the self-reported respiratory features of 32 healthy subjects under exertion and airway blockage. A high similarity between respiratory features in COVID-19 patients and physiologically induced dyspnea in healthy subjects was observed. Learning from our previous dyspnea model of healthy subjects, we deduced that COVID-19 patients have consistently highly correlated respiratory scores in comparison with normal breathing of healthy subjects. We also performed a continuous assessment of the patient’s respiratory scores for 12–16 h. This study offers a useful system for the symptomatic evaluation of patients with active or chronic respiratory disorders, especially the patient population that refuses to cooperate or cannot communicate due to deterioration or loss of cognitive functions. The proposed system can help identify dyspneic exacerbation, leading to early intervention and possible outcome improvement. Our approach can be potentially applied to other pulmonary disorders, such as asthma, emphysema, and other types of pneumonia.