bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Atomization Characteristics of Special-Design Pneumatic Two-Fluid Nozzles for Helicopter Main Reducers: A Numerical and Experimental Investigation
Authors: Liu He , Cheng Huiyun , Dai Yu , Zhu Xiang
Published: December 2022

Oil mist lubrication can be utilized as an emergency lubrication system in the main reducer of a helicopter. A special-design pneumatic two-fluid nozzle is the crucial system component for atomizing lubricant oil, so exploring the atomization characteristics of the nozzle has a significance on effectively improving oil mist lubrication performance. A CFD (computational fluid dynamics) model with a DPM (discrete phase model) technique and a specialized atomization test system were set up to both numerically and experimentally investigate the nozzle’s atomization characteristics. For the atomization properties of the nozzle, the impacts of air pressure, gas–liquid pressure ratio, lubricant oil flow rate, and lubricant oil property factors, including viscosity and surface tension, were investigated. Combining the experimental and the numerical findings reveals that an increasing air pressure and gas–liquid pressure ratio contribute to the atomization effect of the nozzle, especially the air pressure. In addition, a higher lubricant oil flow rate is slightly unfavorable for atomization, but a rise in viscosity and surface tension prevents the atomization of the lubrication oil.
Influence of Wheat Straw Return on Yield and Grain Quality in Different Direct-Seeding Rice Production Systems
Authors: Tian Jinyu , Xing Zhipeng , Li Shaoping , Cheng Shuang , Guo Baowei , Hu Yajie , Wei Haiyan , Gao Hui , Zhang Zhenzhen , Fan Peng , Zhang Hongcheng
Published: December 2022

Direct-seeding methods have received growing interest from rice growers. Wheat straw return is an important measure in rice-wheat rotation system. This study aimed to investigate the influence of wheat straw return on the yield and grain quality in different direct-seeding rice production systems. A split-plot design was adopted for the on-farm trial. The main plots were treated with and without wheat straw return. Dry and wet direct-seeding rice production systems were used in the split plots. The results showed that the yield of direct-seeding rice was reduced by 4.2–7.3% due to wheat straw return, which may be related to a negative effect of wheat straw return on the tiller number (p < 0.05) and biomass accumulation (p < 0.05). Additionally, the content of the amylose and protein of the grain of direct-seeding rice decreased by 4.3–5.5% and 6.0–6.8%, respectively, due to wheat straw return. Furthermore, wheat straw return increased the chalkiness area and the chalkiness degree of the grain of direct-seeding rice, which may be related to the reduced protein content of the grain. However, wheat straw return improved the taste score of the cooked rice (p < 0.05) and the breakdown of the rapid viscosity analyzer (RVA) parameters (p < 0.05), and reduced the setback of the RVA parameters, probably related to an increase in the stickness of the cooked rice (p < 0.05) caused by the reduced amylose content of the grain. When compared to a dry direct-seeding rice production system, a wet direct-seeding rice production system has advantages in the tiller number (p < 0.05) and biomass accumulation, thus increasing the yield and resulting in a lower content of protein and protein components, which reduces both the chalkiness area and chalkiness degree of the grain. However, by using the wet direct-seeding method, the amylose content of the grain improved; hence, the stickness of the cooked rice (p < 0.05) and the breakdown of the RVA parameters decreased, and the setback of the RVA parameters increased. The above results indicated that wheat straw return reduced the yield, nutritional quality, and appearance quality of direct-seeding rice but improved the cooking quality of the grain. Although using the wet direct-seeding method is beneficial to improving the yield, it negatively impacts the grain quality of direct-seeding rice.
AquaCrop Model Evaluation for Winter Wheat under Different Irrigation Management Strategies: A Case Study on the North China Plain
Authors: Wang Guangshuai , Mehmood Faisal , Zain Muhammad , Hamani Abdoul Kader Mounkaila , Xue Jingjie , Gao Yang , Duan Aiwang
Published: December 2022

The North China Plain (NCP) produces about half of the winter wheat yield in China; therefore, it is essential to improve winter wheat grain yield, biomass, and water productivity (WP) under current water shortage conditions in this area. In this study, the AquaCrop model was used for calibrating and validating crop canopy cover, grain yield, biomass, soil water content, crop evapotranspiration (ETC), and crop WP under an irrigation scheduling of 50%, 60%, and 70% field capacities with sprinkler irrigation, drip irrigation, and flood irrigation methods for winter wheat crop. The model was calibrated employing experimental data for the 2016–2017 winter wheat season and, subsequently, validated with using data from 2017–2018. The model performance was analyzed using root-mean-square error (RMSE), normalized root-mean-square error (NRMSE), the coefficient of determination (R2), and Willmott’s index of agreement (d). The prediction error between the simulated and observed values for grain yield, biomass, soil water content, ETC, and WP were the minimum at a 60% field capacity and the maximum at a 50% field capacity irrigation scheduling. The model simulation was satisfactory under the 60% and 70% field capacity irrigation scheduling, while the model performance was relatively low under the 50% field capacity irrigation scheduling. Irrigation to 4–5 times the 30 mm depth (total 120–150 mm) by drip irrigation and sprinkler irrigation was the most effective irrigation schedule to obtain the optimum grain yield, biomass, and WP on the NCP. Our findings suggest that the AquaCrop model could be a feasible tool for precisely simulating the canopy cover, grain yield, biomass, soil water content, ETC, and WP of winter wheat under different irrigation schedules and irrigation methods on the NCP with higher certainty than under current practices.
Staphylococcus aureus-Cure-Associated Antigens Elicit Type 3 Immune Memory T Cells
Authors: Santos Kamila R. , Souza Fernando N. , Ramos-Sanchez Eduardo M. , Batista Camila F. , Reis Luiza C. , Fotoran Wesley L. , Heinemann Marcos B. , Cunha Adriano F. , Rocha Mussya C. , Faria Angélica R. , Andrade Hélida M. , Cerqueira Mônica M. O. P. , Gidlund Magnus , Goto Hiro , Della Libera Alice Maria M. P.
Published: December 2022

Background: Staphylococcus aureus is one of the most frequently major mastitis pathogens that cause clinical and subclinical mastitis worldwide. Current antimicrobial treatments are usually ineffective, and the commercially available vaccines lack proven effectiveness. The immunological response elicited by the recombinant S. aureus-cure-associated proteins phosphoglycerate kinase (PGK), enolase (ENO), and elongation factor-G (EF-G) in combination with the granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) DNA vaccination was studied in this work. Methods: Here, twenty-three C57BL/6 mice were divided into four groups and vaccinated with: G1: none (control); G2: GM-CSF DNA plasmid DNA vaccine; G3: the combination of EF-G+ENO+PGK; and G4: the combinations of EF-G+ENO+PGK proteins plus GM-CSF plasmid DNA vaccine. After 44 days, spleen cells were collected for immunophenotyping and lymphocyte proliferation evaluation by flow cytometry upon S. aureus stimulus. Results: Immunization with the three S. aureus recombinant proteins alone resulted in a higher percentage of IL-17A+ cells among CD8+ T central memory cells, as well as the highest intensity of IL-17A production by overall lymphocytes indicating that the contribution of the combined lymphocyte populations is crucial to sustaining a type 3 cell immunity environment. Conclusion: The immunization with three S. aureus-cure-associated recombinant proteins triggered type 3 immunity, which is a highly interesting path to pursue an effective bovine S. aureus mastitis vaccine.
Flavonoid-Conjugated Gadolinium Complexes as Anti-Inflammatory Theranostic Agents
Authors: Yang Byeong Woo , Yang Sohyeon , Kim Soyeon , Baek Ah Rum , Sung Bokyung , Kim Yeoun-Hee , Lee Jung Tae , Lee Sang Yun , Kim Hee-Kyung , Choi Garam , Park Ji-Ae , Nam Sung-Wook , Lee Gang-Ho , Chang Yongmin
Published: December 2022

In this study, we designed, synthesized, and evaluated gadolinium compounds conjugated with flavonoids as potential theranostic agents for the treatment of inflammation. These novel theranostic agents combine a molecular imaging agent and one of three flavonoids (galangin, chrysin, and 7-hydroxyflavone) as anti-inflammatory drugs as a single integrated platform. Using these agents, MR imaging showed contrast enhancement (>10 in CNR) at inflamed sites in an animal inflammation model, and subsequent MR imaging used to monitor the therapeutic efficacy of these integrated agents revealed changes in inflamed regions. The anti-inflammatory effects of these agents were demonstrated both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, the antioxidant efficacy of the agents was evaluated by measuring their reactive oxygen species scavenging properties. For example, Gd-galangin at 30 μM showed a three-fold higher ROS scavenging of DPPH. Taken together, our findings provide convincing evidence to indicate that flavonoid-conjugated gadolinium compounds can be used as potentially efficient theranostic agents for the treatment of inflammation.
Sidestream Smoke Extracts from Harm-Reduction and Conventional Camel Cigarettes Inhibit Osteogenic Differentiation via Oxidative Stress and Differential Activation of intrinsic Apoptotic Pathways
Authors: Sparks Nicole R. L. , Walker Lauren M. , Sera Steven R. , Madrid Joseph V. , Hanna Michael , Dominguez Edward C. , zur Nieden Nicole I.
Published: December 2022

Epidemiological studies suggest cigarette smoking as a probable environmental factor for a variety of congenital anomalies, including low bone mass, increased fracture risk and poor skeletal health. Human and animal in vitro models have confirmed hypomineralization of differentiating cell lines with sidestream smoke being more harmful to developing cells than mainstream smoke. Furthermore, first reports are emerging to suggest a differential impact of conventional versus harm-reduction tobacco products on bone tissue as it develops in the embryo or in vitro. To gather first insight into the molecular mechanism of such differences, we assessed the effect of sidestream smoke solutions from Camel (conventional) and Camel Blue (harm-reduction) cigarettes using a human embryonic stem cell osteogenic differentiation model. Sidestream smoke from the conventional Camel cigarettes concentration-dependently inhibited in vitro calcification triggered by high levels of mitochondrially generated oxidative stress, loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, and reduced ATP production. Camel sidestream smoke also induced DNA damage and caspase 9-dependent apoptosis. Camel Blue-exposed cells, in contrast, invoked only intermediate levels of reactive oxygen species insufficient to activate caspase 3/7. Despite the absence of apoptotic gene activation, damage to the mitochondrial phenotype was still noted concomitant with activation of an anti-inflammatory gene signature and inhibited mineralization. Collectively, the presented findings in differentiating pluripotent stem cells imply that embryos may exhibit low bone mineral density if exposed to environmental smoke during development.
New Insights into the Cellular Toxicity of Carbon Quantum Dots to Escherichia coli
Authors: Qiang Shirong , Zhang Li , Li Zhengbin , Liang Jianjun , Li Ping , Song Jiayu , Guo Kunling , Wang Zihuan , Fan Qiaohui
Published: December 2022

In this study, the cytotoxicity and toxic mechanism of carbon quantum dots (CQDs) to E. coli were evaluated in vitro. The synthetic CQDs were extremely small in size (~2.08 nm) and displayed strong fluorescence. The results demonstrated that CQDs showed good biocompatibility with E. coli within a short culture time. However, when the exposure time exceeded 24 h, the toxicity of CQDs became apparent, and the contents of reactive oxygen species, lactate dehydrogenase, and the crystal violet absorption rate increased significantly. To further explore the cytotoxic mechanism, approaches including confocal laser scanning microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and biological transmission electron microscopy combined with zeta potential tests, osmotic pressure measurement, and comet assays were performed. On the one hand, the CQDs altered the surface charges of cells and induced lipid peroxidation by adhesion on the surface of E. coli, leading to an increase in the permeability of the cell wall. On the other hand, when the concentration of CQDs reached 200 µg/mL, the osmotic pressure of the extracellular environment was significantly reduced. These are the main factors that lead to cell edema and death. Finally, the comet assays confirmed that CQDs could induce DNA damage, which could inhibit the proliferation of E. coli.
Design and Evaluation of Screening Smoke Compositions Based on Red Phosphorus in Open Field Conditions
Authors: Pulpea Bogdan Gheorghe , Pulpea Daniela , Trană Eugen , Rotariu Traian , Ginghină Raluca Elena , Toader Gabriela , Dirloman Florin Marian
Published: December 2022

This research describes the design and evaluation of screening smoke compositions based on red phosphorus (RP), in open field conditions. In defense applications, smoke is used for both signaling and screening. Defense forces use smoke screening over their operational areas to conceal positions and activities from the ground or air observation performed by the enemy. In this research, various optimized smoke charges based on RP were prepared and tested to investigate IR and VIS screening effectiveness in static and dynamic conditions and to establish the parameters that influence the screening time (ST- the active time of the small solid hot particles suspended in the air). In addition, this study projected a mathematical model to describe the concealing time of a civil or military target by optimizing the smoke compositions. The mathematical approach clarifies the limitations of reducing smoke charge while maintaining adequate screening time. The empirical mathematical model estimates the screening time of the generated solid smoke particles (aerosol) through laboratory experiments and open field studies. According to the experimental results, more hot particles should be kept in the atmosphere to maintain the smoke screen and sustain the aerosol density in the considered volume.
Seismic Isolation Devices for Protecting RC Buildings: The Frangipane School in Reggio Calabria
Authors: Pucinotti Raffaele , De Lorenzo Rita A. , Bedon Chiara
Published: December 2022

Seismic isolation devices, as known, are particularly efficient tools for the protection of newly designed or existing buildings and infrastructures and for the mitigation of maximum effects due to earthquakes. The highest is the vulnerability of a given existing construction, and the higher is the benefit in structural terms due to a possible retrofit intervention based on base isolation. This is especially the case of reinforced concrete (RC) building frames built in the 1960s in the Italian context and originally designed with a code of the first generation (“Regio Decreto Legge 25 Marzo 1935, n. 640”) in a city characterized by a long history of severe earthquakes (as the Reggio Calabria and Messina earthquake in 1908), and thus recognized as highly seismic regions. In this paper, a case-study application is proposed for the Frangipane school constructed in Reggio Calabria (Italy) and recently subjected to a major renovation intervention for its retrofit against the high seismic hazard.
Low-Noise, Low-Power Readout IC for Two-Electrode ECG Recording Using Common-Mode Charge Pump for Robust 20-VPP Common-Mode Interference
Authors: Nam Kyeongsik , Choi Gyuri , Yoo Mookyoung , Kang Sanggyun , Jin Byeongkwan , Son Hyeoktae , Kim Kyounghwan , Ko Hyoungho
Published: December 2022

A low-noise and -power readout integrated circuit (IC) for two-electrode electrocardiogram (ECG) recording is developed in this study using a common-mode charge pump (CMCP) for a robust 20-VPP common-mode interference (CMI). Two-electrode ECG recording offers more comfort than three-electrode ECG recording. Contrasting to the three-electrode ECG recording, the two-electrode ECG recording is affected by CMI during measurements; the intervention of a large CMI will distort the ECG signal measurement. To achieve robustness for the CMI, the proposed ECG readout IC adopts CMCP—it uses switched capacitors that store and subtract CMI by control logic. In this paper, a window comparator structure is applied to CMCP to obtain a signal with less distortion. The window voltage ranges were set between the input common-mode ranges in which IA can operate. Therefore, a signal with less distortion was obtained by stopping the operation of CMCP between the window voltage ranges. It also reduced additional current consumption. To achieve this, the proposed circuit is implemented using a chopper stabilization technique. The chopper implemented in the amplifier can reduce low-frequency noise components, such as 1/f noise, and it comprises a CMCP, current feedback instrumentation amplifier, QRS peak detector, relaxation oscillator, voltage reference, timing generator, and serial peripheral interface on a single chip. The proposed circuit was designed using a standard 0.18 μm CMOS process with an active area of 0.54 mm2. The proposed CMCP achieves a CMI robustness of 20 VPP at 60 Hz. The measured input-referred noise level was 119 nV/√Hz at 1 Hz, and the power consumption was 23.83 μW with a 1.8 V power supply.
Prediction of Ride Comfort of High-Speed Trains Based on Train Seat–Human Body Coupled Dynamics Model
Authors: Li Heng , Zheng Xu , Dai Wenqiang , Qiu Yi
Published: December 2022

A train seat–human body coupled dynamics model was established to predict the ride comfort of high-speed trains. The train and track and the seat and human body were both coupled in the model. An on-site vibration experiment in a high-speed train was carried out to calibrate each part of the train seat–human body coupled dynamics model. Based on the evaluation method proposed by BS EN 12299:2009, the distribution of ride comfort in the carriage and the effect of seat cushion stiffness and damping on ride comfort were analyzed systematically. The results showed that the seats in the middle of the carriage had the best comfort performance, while those near the side wall and close to the position where the suspension force of the second series was acting were less comfortable. The seat cushion stiffness and damping had great effect on ride comfort.
Numerical Analysis of Reinforcing Effect for Scissors-Type Bridge with Strut Members
Authors: Chikahiro Yuki , Ario Ichiro
Published: December 2022

Recently, a scissor mechanism was efficiently applied in the safety engineering field as an emergency structure owing to the advantages of mobility, transformability, and re-usability. This paper focuses on the advantages of this mechanism and puts forward a deployable emergency bridge called Mobile Bridge as a smart bridge. To deploy this bridge in an emergency situation, the structural safety, such as strength and stiffness, must be ensured through proper reinforcing methods. Several research studies concerning the reinforcing effect to scissors structures have been conducted using a cable and/or strut. However, the reinforcing situation was limited, and it is not clear where and how much reinforcement should be introduced. In this paper, we discuss the reinforcing effect of simple struts through a theoretical and numerical approach. Then, we evaluate their applicability to the Mobile Bridge based on numerical simulation. The advantage of the proposed reinforcing method is evaluated, focusing on the reduction of the bending moment which is the dominant sectional force in the scissor structure. We found the reinforcing effect has a nonlinear relationship between the stress and ratio of extension rigidity. The most effective reinforcing configuration was a double warren truss with the vertical element in a two-unit scissors-type bridge and a double warren truss without the vertical element in a three-unit scissors-type bridge. The necessary sectional area of the strut elements was more than 0.2 times that of the scissors member. These results imply that the smart bridge can enhance its performance by using proper reinforcement of the struts.
Straightened Segmentation in 4D Cardiac CT: A Practical Method for Multiparametric Characterization of the Landing Zone for Transcatheter Pulmonary Valve Replacement
Authors: Sun Xiaolin , Hao Yimeng , Steitz Marvin , Breitenstein-Attach Alexander , Kiekenap Jonathan Frederik Sebastian , Emeis Jasper , Khan Mahamuda Badhon , Berger Felix , Schmitt Boris
Published: December 2022

Cardiac computed tomography angiography (C-CTA) is crucial in assessing the right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) prior to a transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement (TPVR), as an incorrect evaluation can make the procedure more challenging and can lead to device-related complications. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and accuracy of 4D straightened segmentation for a landing zone analysis over anatomical segmentation. Seven pre-operative CTAs and seven post-operative CTAs were used to measure the cross-sectional area, circumference, and diameters at five selected planes as the landing zone for TPVR and compared these to the 4D straightened model with the anatomical model. Furthermore, the right ventricular volume, stent volume, and 4D ellipticity index were calculated from the 4D straightened model. The 4D straightened segmentation had comparable accuracy and efficacy for the measurements at the landing zone. The cross-sectional area and the circumference varied greatly at the RVOT and the basal plane of the pulmonary valve compared with the other three planes of the 4D straightened models from the pre-operative CTAs; however, only the values at the RVOT were found to vary greatly from the post-operative CTAs. The 4D straightened model can provide accurate measurements and is thus a useful method for the periprocedural evaluation of TPVR.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)-Based Evaluation of Bolt Loosening Using Vibro-Acoustic Modulation (VAM) Features from a Combination of Simulation and Experiments
Authors: Li Jianbin , He Yi , Li Qian , Zhang Zhen
Published: December 2022

The detection of bolt loosening using vibro-acoustic modulation (VAM) has been increasingly investigated in the past decade. However, conventional nonlinear coefficients, derived from theoretical analysis, are usually based on the assumption of ideal wave–surface interactions at the joint interfaces. Such coefficients show a poor correlation with the tightening torque when the joint is under the combined influences of structural and material nonlinearities. A reliable inspection method of residual bolt torque is proposed in this study using support vector regression (SVR) with acoustic features from VAM. By considering the material intrinsic nonlinearity (MIN) and dissipative nonlinearity (DN), the responses of aluminum–aluminum and composite–composite bolted joints during the VAM test were accurately simulated. The SVRs were subsequently established based on the database built by combining simulated and experimental nonlinear spectral features when the joints were inspected at different scenarios. The results show that the evaluation of residual torque using the SVR models driven by the acoustic nonlinear responses had higher accuracy compared to the conventional nonlinear coefficients. Requiring limited experimental data, the proposed method can achieve a reliable inspection of bolt torque by including the simulated data in the machine training.
Breast Cancer Detection in Thermography Using Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) with Deep Attention Mechanisms
Authors: Alshehri Alia , AlSaeed Duaa
Published: December 2022

Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer among women. Accurate diagnosis at an early stage can reduce the mortality associated with this disease. Governments and health organizations stress the importance of early detection of breast cancer as it is related to an increase in the number of available treatment options and increased survival. Early detection gives patients the best chance of receiving effective treatment. Different types of images and imaging modalities are used in the detection and diagnosis of breast cancer. One of the imaging types is “infrared thermal” breast imaging, where a screening instrument is used to measure the temperature distribution of breast tissue. Although it has not been used often, compared to mammograms, it showed promising results when used for early detection. It also has many advantages as it is non-invasive, safe, painless, and inexpensive. The literature has indicated that the use of thermal images with deep neural networks improves the accuracy of early diagnosis of breast malformation. Therefore, in this paper, we aim to investigate to what extent convolutional neural networks (CNNs) with attention mechanisms (AMs) can provide satisfactory detection results in thermal breast cancer images. We present a model for breast cancer detection based on deep neural networks with AMs using thermal images from the Database for Research Mastology with Infrared Image (DMR-IR). The model will be evaluated in terms of accuracy, sensitivity and specificity, and will be compared against state-of-the-art breast cancer detection methods. The AMs with the CNN model achieved encouraging test accuracy rates of 99.46%, 99.37%, and 99.30% on the breast thermal dataset. The test accuracy of CNNs without AMs was 92.32%, whereas CNNs with AMs achieved an improvement in accuracy of 7%. Moreover, the proposed models outperformed previous models that were reviewed in the literature.
Preliminary Examination of Emergent Threat and Risk Landscapes in Intelligent Harvesting Robots
Authors: Moukafih Nabil , Epiphaniou Gregory , Maple Carsten , Chavasse Chris , Moran John
Published: December 2022

Recently, many farmers have started using robots to help with labour-intensive harvesting operations and deal with labour shortage that was also a negative consequence of the recent COVID-19 pandemic. Intelligent harvesting robots make farming more efficient and productive. However, and like any other technology, intelligent harvesting robots come with a security risk, as threats can damage the robotic system and wreak havoc before the farmer/operator realizes it. This paper focuses on analysing the threats against the security of harvesting robots alongside with the safety implications that may rise if the robotic system is compromised. We analysed an actual asparagus harvesting robot and looked at others in the literature. We identified several security threats which we classified into five categories: network, hardware, software, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and cloud security issues. We selected three interesting attack scenarios for a deeper analysis. Our results suggest that these robots have a large attack surface that can lead to exploits with immense financial and operational impacts.
Optical Lines of Ru21+ to Ru24+ Ions
Authors: Fan Junyu , Jiang Zihuan , Qian Yuyuan , Liu Jialin , Xu Pengcheng , Huang Liangyu , He Zhencen , Zou Yaming , Li Jiguang , Chen Chongyang , Yao Ke
Published: December 2022

In this work, we report a spectroscopy measurement of Ru21+ to Ru24+ ions in the optical region using a low energy electron beam ion trap. Twelve lines were observed. The multiconfiguration Dirac–Hartree–Fock and relativistic configuration interaction methods were used to calculate the atomic level energies and the transition rates. With the assistance of the theoretical results, eleven magnetic dipole lines were identified. The experimental results provide new reference data for further theoretical investigations of the complex ions.
Outnumbered: Control Prothrombin Time in Maddrey’s Discriminant Function Impacts Steroid Use but Not Mortality in Alcoholic Hepatitis
Authors: Healey Marcus , Sterling Richard K.
Published: December 2022

Background and aims: In alcoholic hepatitis (AH), increases in the total bilirubin (TB) and the prothrombin time (PT), which are included in the Maddrey’s discriminant function (MDF) and the model for end-stage liver disease (MELD), are associated with poor outcomes. However, the impact of which control PT in the MDF to use compared to the MELD on the outcomes in AH is unknown. Our aim is to determine whether the choice of the control PT used in the MDF calculations has any impact on steroid use and survival when compared to the MELD in those with AH. Methods: Through retrospective chart review, we analyzed 882 subjects who were admitted from 2012 to 2020 with acute AH. Their MDF was calculated [(TB + 4.6 × (PT–control)] using the following three different control PTs: 12, 13.5, and 14.8 s, and was compared to the MELD. The primary outcomes were steroid use and 30-day survival. Results: When it was stratified by the control PT, the percentage of MDF ≥ 32 (the threshold for steroids) decreased with increasing control PT (70%, 61%, and 52%, respectively), along with decreased steroid use (91%, 84%, and 75%, respectively). Those who received steroids were not shown to have improved 30-day survival compared to those who did not receive steroids (p = 0.41). The ability of the MDF for each control PT threshold to predict 30-day survival was similar (AUROC 0.735), and was lower compared to the MELD (0.767). Conclusion: While the choice of PT control in the MDF impacted the use of steroids in AH, the use of steroids and the choice of PT control used did not impact the overall survival. Regardless of which control PT was used in the MDF, the MELD was better at predicting 30-day survival. Important information: Background: Treatment with steroids is indicated in alcoholic hepatitis (AH) with Maddrey discriminant function (MDF) ≥ 32 and the model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) ≥ 20. The impact that the control prothrombin time (PT) value that is used in MDF has on steroid use and survival in AH is poorly understood. Findings: The choice of control PT that is used when calculating the MDF impacts the use of steroids but does not impact mortality. The MELD was better than the MDF at any control PT used in predicting survival in acute AH. Implications for patient care: Providers should be aware that higher control PT’s have an effect on treatment decisions but should not generally impact survival in this population. The MELD appears to better predict 30-day survival in this population.
Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and Its Soluble Receptor in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Patients
Authors: Gómez-Bernal Fuensanta , Fernández-Cladera Yolanda , Quevedo-Abeledo Juan Carlos , García-González María , González-Rivero Agustín F. , de Vera-González Antonia , Martín-González Candelaria , González-Gay Miguel Á. , Ferraz-Amaro Iván
Published: December 2022

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a major regulator of physiological and pathological angiogenesis. Its soluble receptor (sVEGFR) is a potent VEGF antagonist. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease with a diverse array of clinical manifestations that affect virtually any organ. We aimed to analyze the relationship of VEGF and sVEGFR with SLE disease-related features including disease activity, damage, and severity. Serum levels of VEGF165 isoform and sVEGFR (receptor 1) were assessed in 284 well-characterized patients with SLE. Linear regression analysis was performed to analyze the relationship of disease characteristics with both VEGF and sVEGFR. Patients with a disease damage index (SLICC score) equal to or greater than 1 had significantly elevated serum levels of VEGF and sVEGFR. Regarding disease-specific features, musculoskeletal manifestations were the disease feature most commonly associated with the upregulation of both VEGF and sVEGFR. SLE disease damage is associated with higher levels of VEGF and sVEGFR.
Fourth Dose of mRNA COVID-19 Vaccine Transiently Reactivates Spike-Specific Immunological Memory in People Living with HIV (PLWH)
Authors: Lamacchia Giulia , Salvati Lorenzo , Kiros Seble Tekle , Mazzoni Alessio , Vanni Anna , Capone Manuela , Carnasciali Alberto , Farahvachi Parham , Lagi Filippo , Di Lauria Nicoletta , Rocca Arianna , Colao Maria Grazia , Liotta Francesco , Cosmi Lorenzo , Rossolini Gian Maria , Bartoloni Alessandro , Maggi Laura , Annunziato Francesco
Published: December 2022

Background: People Living With HIV (PLWH), with advanced disease, lower CD4+ T cell counts or an unsuppressed HIV viral load can have a suboptimal vaccine response. For this reason, in the current COVID-19 pandemic, they represent a prioritized population for the SARS-CoV-2 fourth (or second booster) vaccine dose. This work aims to investigate the effects of a second booster on the reactivation of the spike-specific humoral and cell-mediated immune responses in PLWH. Methods: A total of eight PLWH, who received a fourth dose of the original mRNA vaccines were enrolled. They were evaluated before and then 7 days, 1 month and 2 months after the injection. The humoral response was assessed via a chemiluminescent immunoassay. Immunophenotyping and the functional evaluation of the SARS-CoV-2-specific cellular immune responses were performed via flow cytometry. Results: Anti-spike IgG levels were above the cut-off value for all subjects at all timepoints. The spike-specific CD4+ T cell response was reactivated one week after the fourth vaccine dose, and on average declined at two months post-vaccination. A similar trend was observed for the spike-specific B cells. A low percentage of spike-specific CD4+ T cells was activated by the B.1.1.529 BA.1 Omicron-spike mutated peptides, and the majority of these cells were reactive to the conserved portions of the spike protein. Similarly, the majority of the spike-specific memory B cells were able to bind both Wuhan and Omicron-spike entire protein. Conclusions: Spike-specific adaptive immune responses are transiently reactivated in PLWH following the fourth mRNA vaccine dose. The breadth of the immune responses to the mutated spike protein provides insight on the possible cross-reactivity for the SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOCs).
Antimicrobial and Immunomodulatory Potential of Cow Colostrum Extracellular Vesicles (ColosEVs) in an Intestinal In Vitro Model
Authors: Mecocci Samanta , De Paolis Livia , Zoccola Roberto , Fruscione Floriana , De Ciucis Chiara Grazia , Chiaradia Elisabetta , Moccia Valentina , Tognoloni Alessia , Pascucci Luisa , Zoppi Simona , Zappulli Valentina , Chillemi Giovanni , Goria Maria , Cappelli Katia , Razzuoli Elisabetta
Published: December 2022

Extracellular Vesicles (EVs) are nano-sized double-lipid-membrane-bound structures, acting mainly as signalling mediators between distant cells and, in particular, modulating the immune response and inflammation of targeted cells. Milk and colostrum contain high amounts of EVs that could be exploited as alternative natural systems in antimicrobial fighting. The aim of this study is to evaluate cow colostrum-derived EVs (colosEVs) for their antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulating effects in vitro to assess their suitability as natural antimicrobial agents as a strategy to cope with the drug resistance problem. ColosEVs were evaluated on a model of neonatal calf diarrhoea caused by Escherichia coli infection, a livestock disease where antibiotic therapy often has poor results. Colostrum from Piedmontese cows was collected within 24 h of calving and colosEVs were immediately isolated. IPEC-J2 cell line was pre-treated with colosEVs for 48 h and then infected with EPEC/NTEC field strains for 2 h. Bacterial adherence and IPEC-J2 gene expression analysis (RT-qPCR) of CXCL8, DEFB1, DEFB4A, TLR4, TLR5, NFKB1, MYD88, CGAS, RIGI and STING were evaluated. The colosEVs pre-treatment significantly reduced the ability of EPEC/NTEC strains to adhere to cell surfaces (p = 0.006), suggesting a role of ColosEVs in modulating host–pathogen interactions. Moreover, our results showed a significant decrease in TLR5 (p < 0.05), CGAS (p < 0.05) and STING (p < 0.01) gene expression in cells that were pre-treated with ColosEVs and then infected, thus highlighting a potential antimicrobial activity of ColosEVs. This is the first preliminarily study investigating ColosEV immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects on an in vitro model of neonatal calf diarrhoea, showing its potential as a therapeutic and prophylactic tool.
Facile Fabrication of Methyl Gallate Encapsulated Folate ZIF-L Nanoframeworks as a pH Responsive Drug Delivery System for Anti-Biofilm and Anticancer Therapy
Authors: Marji Saeed M. , Bayan Mohammad F. , Jaradat Abdolelah
Published: December 2022

Zeolitic imidazole frameworks are emerging materials and have been considered an efficient platform for biomedical applications. The present study highlights the simple fabrication of methyl gallate encapsulated folate-ZIF-L nanoframeworks (MG@Folate ZIF-L) by a simple synthesis. The nanoframeworks were characterized by different sophisticated instruments. In addition, the drug-releasing mechanism was evidenced by in vitro releasing kinetics at various pH conditions. The anti-biofilm potential confirmed by the biofilm architectural deformations against human infectious pathogens MRSA and N7 clinical strains. Furthermore, anticancer efficacy assessed against A549 lung cancer cells. The result reveals that the MG@Folate ZIF-L exposed a superior cytotoxic effect due to the pH-responsive and receptor-based drug-releasing mechanism. Based on the unique physicochemical and biological characteristics of nanoframeworks, it has overcome the problems of undesired side effects and uncontrolled drug release of existing drug delivery systems. Finally, the in vitro toxicity effect of MG@Folate ZIF-L was tested against the Artemia salina (A. salina) model organism, and the results show enhanced biocompatibility. Overall, the study suggested that the novel MG@Folate ZIF-L nanoframeworks is a suitable material for biomedical applications. It will be very helpful to the future design for targeted drug delivery systems.
Graphene Oxide-Magnetic Nanoparticles Loaded Polystyrene-Polydopamine Electrospun Nanofibers Based Nanocomposites for Immunosensing Application of C-Reactive Protein
Authors: Ketmen Simge , Er Zeybekler Simge , Gelen Sultan Sacide , Odaci Dilek
Published: December 2022

The large surface area/volume ratio and controllable surface conformation of electrospun nanofibers (ENFs) make them highly attractive in applications where a large surface area is desired, such as sensors and affinity membranes. In this study, nanocomposite-based ENFs were produced and immobilization of Anti-CRP was carried out for the non-invasive detection of C-reactive protein (CRP). Initially, the synthesis of graphene oxide (GO) was carried out and it was modified with magnetic nanoparticles (MNP, Fe3O4) and polydopamine (PDA). Catechol-containing and quinone-containing functional groups were created on the nanocomposite surface for the immobilization of Anti-CRP. Polystyrene (PS) solution was mixed with rGO-MNP-PDA nanocomposite and PS/rGO-MNP-PDA ENFs were produced with bead-free, smooth, and uniform. The surface of the screen-printed carbon electrode (SPCE) was covered with PS/rGO-MNP-PDA ENFs by using the electrospinning technique under the determined optimum conditions. Next, Anti-CRP immobilization was carried out and the biofunctional surface was created on the PS/rGO-MNP-PDA ENFs coated SPCE. Moreover, PS/rGO-PDA/Anti-CRP and PS/MNP-PDA/Anti-CRP immunosensors were also prepared and the effect of each component in the nanocomposite-based electrospun nanofiber (MNP, rGO) on the sensor response was investigated. The analytic performance of the developed PS/rGO-MNP-PDA/Anti-CRP, PS/rGO-PDA/Anti-CRP, and PS/MNP-PDA/Anti-CRP immunosensors were examined by performing electrochemical measurements in the presence of CRP. The linear detection range of PS/rGO-MNP-PDA/Anti-CRP immunosensor was found to be from 0.5 to 60 ng/mL and the limit of detection (LOD) was calculated as 0.33 ng/mL for CRP. The PS/rGO-MNP-PDA/Anti-CRP immunosensor also exhibited good repeatability with a low coefficient of variation.
Does Brand Truth-Telling Yield Customer Participation? The Interaction Effects of CSR Strategy and Transparency Signaling
Authors: Yu Weiping , Zhou Jun , He Mingli , Si Dongyang
Published: December 2022

Customer participation in brand environmental responsibility is necessary for enterprises and consumers to co-create value. However, it is not yet clear why some corporate social responsibility (CSR) communications are more effective in attracting higher customer participation in a digitally transparent environment. Based on signal theory and social identity theory, this study examines the impact of the interactive effect of CSR strategy (proactive vs. reactive) and transparency signals (high vs. low) on customer trust (perceived integrity and perceived competence), customer–brand identification, and participation intention in brand environmental responsibility. We conduct a 2 × 2 study with 140 respondents. The findings reveal a significant interaction effect of CSR strategy and transparency signals on perceived integrity, perceived competence, and participation intention in brand environmental responsibility. Mediation analysis reveals that the impact of CSR strategy on participation intention is serially mediated via perceived trust and customer–brand identification and varies across different transparency levels.
Combining Deep Fully Convolutional Network and Graph Convolutional Neural Network for the Extraction of Buildings from Aerial Images
Authors: Zhang Wenzhuo , Yu Mingyang , Chen Xiaoxian , Zhou Fangliang , Ren Jie , Xu Haiqing , Xu Shuai
Published: December 2022

Deep learning technology, such as fully convolutional networks (FCNs), have shown competitive performance in the automatic extraction of buildings from high-resolution aerial images (HRAIs). However, there are problems of over-segmentation and internal cavity in traditional FCNs used for building extraction. To address these issues, this paper proposes a new building graph convolutional network (BGC-Net), which optimizes the segmentation results by introducing the graph convolutional network (GCN). The core of BGC-Net includes two major modules. One is an atrous attention pyramid (AAP) module, obtained by fusing the attention mechanism and atrous convolution, which improves the performance of the model in extracting multi-scale buildings through multi-scale feature fusion; the other is a dual graph convolutional (DGN) module, the build of which is based on GCN, which improves the segmentation accuracy of object edges by adding long-range contextual information. The performance of BGC-Net is tested on two high spatial resolution datasets (Wuhan University building dataset and a Chinese typical city building dataset) and compared with several state-of-the-art networks. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method outperforms several state-of-the-art approaches (FCN8s, DANet, SegNet, U-Net, ARC-Net, BAR-Net) in both visual interpretation and quantitative evaluations. The BGC-Net proposed in this paper has better results when extracting the completeness of buildings, including boundary segmentation accuracy, and shows great potential in high-precision remote sensing mapping applications.
Size Dependent Buckling Analysis of a FG-CNTRC Microplate of Variable Thickness under Non-Uniform Biaxial Compression
Authors: Roodgar Saffari Pouyan , Sher William , Thongchom Chanachai
Published: December 2022

This paper combines third-order shear deformation theory (TSDT) and modified couple stress theory (MCST) with the principle of total potential energy to analyze the size-dependent buckling behavior of a functionally graded carbon nanotube-reinforced composite (FG-CNTRC) rectangular microplate of variable thickness subject to non-uniform biaxial compression when resting on an elastic medium. To determine the thickness qualities of the material, the extended rule of mixture was applied. In the context of microplate buckling in the presence of small length scale effects, the three kinds of Carbon Nanotube (CNT) distribution—(a) UD, (b) FG-O, and (c) FG-X—were used and compared. The equations governing various combinations of simply supported or clamped boundary conditions have been solved using the differential quadrature method (DQM). The correctness and precision of the solutions have been compared to another study. A numerical study was conducted to examine the dependence of buckling load on several parameters, including percentage change of thickness, length scale parameter, nonuniform edge loads, boundary conditions, volume percentage of the CNTs, CNT distribution, and elastic medium parameter. The results of their effects are presented in this paper.
Seismic Performance of H-Shaped Steel Column with Replaceable Slip Friction Joints
Authors: Li Cheng-Yu , Wang Fan , Zhu Ai-Zhu
Published: December 2022

Based on the concept of structural damage control, a beam-through steel frame system with continuous columns was constructed. Replaceable connectors were set at both ends of an H-shaped steel column to connect the beam with high-strength bolts. In this study, three specimens were designed and fabricated, that is, a standard H-shaped column, an H-shaped column with replaceable connectors at the bottom of the column, and an H-shaped column with replaceable connectors at both ends. Low-circumferential reciprocal loading tests were carried out to analyse the influence of the location of replaceable slip friction joints on the seismic performance of steel columns. Results showed that the H-shaped steel column with replaceable slip friction joints at both ends slipped during the loading process, as expected. The test hysteresis curve was full, and the skeleton curve did not drop significantly; thus, the column demonstrated satisfactory seismic performance. The steel column was not significantly damaged or deformed, and connectors could be reset and replaced after an earthquake to achieve post-earthquake repair. The effect of the thickness of the horizontal limbs of the connectors on the seismic performance of the H-shaped column with replaceable connectors at both ends was analysed using finite element simulation. The results revealed that the reasonable setting of the thickness of the horizontal limbs of the connectors can ensure the frictional energy dissipation capacity of the connectors and achieve the expected damage control.
Ni5P4-NiP2-Ni2P Nanocomposites Tangled with N-Doped Carbon for Enhanced Electrochemical Hydrogen Evolution in Acidic and Alkaline Solutions
Authors: Pei Miaomiao , Song Xiaowei , Zhong Haihong , Estudillo-Wong Luis Alberto , Gao Yingchun , Jin Tongmengyao , Huang Ju , Wang Yali , Yang Jun , Feng Yongjun
Published: December 2022

Heterostructured non-precious metal phosphides have attracted increasing attention in the development of high-performance catalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), particularly in acidic media. Herein, a catalyst composed of ternary Ni5P4-NiP2-Ni2P nanocomposites and N-doped carbon nanotubes/carbon particulates (Ni5P4-NiP2-Ni2P/NC) was prepared from a Ni-containing hybrid precursor through approaches of a successive carbonization and phosphating reaction. Benefiting from the synergistic effect from three-component nickel phosphides and the support role of porous carbon network, the Ni5P4-NiP2-Ni2P/N-doped carbon catalyst presents the promising HER performance with overpotentials of 168 and 202 mV at the current density of 10 mA cm−2 and Tafel slopes of 69.0 and 74 mV dec−1 in both acidic and alkaline solutions, respectively, which surpasses the Ni2P/N-doped carbon counterpart. This work provides an effective strategy for the preparation and development of highly efficient HER non-precious metal electrocatalysts by creating heterostructure in acidic and alkaline media.