bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Preparation Conditions on the Efficiency of Visible-Light-Driven Hydrogen Generation Based on Cd0.25Zn0.75S Photocatalysts
Authors: Mersel Maali-Amel , Fodor Lajos , Pekker Péter , Jakab Miklós , Makó Éva , Horváth Ottó
Published: December 2021

Photocatalytic H2 production utilizing H2S, an industrial side-product, is regarded as an environmentally friendly process to produce clean energy through direct solar energy conversion. For this purpose, sulfide-based materials, such as photocatalysts, have been widely used due to their good solar response and high photocatalytic activity. In this work, a ZnS–CdS composite was studied, and special attention was dedicated to the influence of the preparation parameters on its H2 production activity. The ZnS–CdS composite, with an enhanced photoactivity for H2 production, was synthesized both from ammine complexes and, in a conventional way, directly from acetates at various pH values. Deviating from the traditional method, the photoactivity of ZnS–CdS prepared from ammine complexes was not affected by the pH. Besides, the hydrothermal treatment and the ammonia content strongly influenced the rate of H2 production in this system. DRS, TEM, SEM, XRD, and quantum yield measurements prove the dependence of the photoactivity of these catalysts on the structural and morphological properties determined by the preparation conditions. The promising photocatalytic efficiency achieved with the application of these ZnS–CdS catalysts, prepared without any metal deposition, encourages further investigations to enhance the rate of hydrogen generation by optimization of the reaction conditions for practical utilization.
TiCl4/MgCl2/MCM-41 Bi-Supported Ziegler–Natta Catalyst: Effects of Catalyst Composition on Ethylene/1-Hexene Copolymerization
Authors: Liu Xiaoyu , Guo Wenqi , Wang Xueer , Guo Yintian , Zhang Biao , Fu Zhisheng , Wang Qi , Fan Zhiqiang
Published: December 2021

TiCl4/MgCl2/MCM-41 type bi-supported Ziegler-Natta catalysts with different MgCl2/MCM-41 ratios were synthesized by adsorbing TiCl4 onto MgCl2 crystallites anchored in mesopores of MCM-41 (mesoporous silica with 3.4 nm pore size). Ethylene/1-hexene copolymerization with the catalysts was conducted at different 1-hexene concentrations and ethylene pressures. MgCl2/MCM-41 composite supports and the catalysts were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), nitrogen adsorption analysis (BET), and elemental analysis. The copolymers were fractionated by extraction with boiling n-heptane, and comonomer contents of the fractions were determined. Under 4 bar ethylene pressure, the bi-supported catalysts showed higher activity and a stronger comonomer activation effect than the TiCl4/MgCl2 catalyst. In comparison with the TiCl4/MgCl2 catalyst, the bi-supported catalysts produced much less copolymer fraction of low molecular weight and high 1-hexene content, meaning that the active center distribution of the catalyst was significantly changed by introducing MCM-41 in the support. The copolymer produced by the bi-supported catalysts showed similar melting temperature to that produced by TiCl4/MgCl2 under the same polymerization conditions. The space confinement effect of the mesopores of MCM-41 on the size and structure of MgCl2 crystallites is proposed as the main reason for the special active center distribution of the bi-supported catalysts.
Synthesis, Characterization and Enhanced Visible Light Photocatalytic Performance of ZnWO4-NPs@rGO Nanocomposites
Authors: Alhokbany Norah , Alshehri Saad M. , Ahmed Jahangeer
Published: December 2021

ZnWO4 nanoparticles on reduced graphene oxide (ZnWO4-NPs@rGO) nanocomposites were synthesized using the hydrothermal method. Structural, morphological, optical, and photocatalytic studies of the ZnWO4-NPs@rGO nanocomposites were successfully investigated. Photo-catalytic performances of the ZnWO4-NPs@rGO nanocomposites were examined for the degradation of hazardous methylene blue dye (HMBD) in a neutral medium. ZnWO4-NPs@rGO nanocomposites show superior photo-catalytic performances over pure ZnWO4 nanoparticles. ZnWO4-NPs@rGO nanocomposites degrade ~98% dye while pure ZnWO4 nanoparticles degrade ~53% dye in 120 min. The prepared nanocomposites also show excellent recycled photo-catalytic efficiencies over multiple cycles.
Autophagy-Lysosomal Pathway as Potential Therapeutic Target in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Bonam Srinivasa Reddy , Tranchant Christine , Muller Sylviane
Published: December 2021

Cellular quality control systems have gained much attention in recent decades. Among these, autophagy is a natural self-preservation mechanism that continuously eliminates toxic cellular components and acts as an anti-ageing process. It is vital for cell survival and to preserve homeostasis. Several cell-type-dependent canonical or non-canonical autophagy pathways have been reported showing varying degrees of selectivity with regard to the substrates targeted. Here, we provide an updated review of the autophagy machinery and discuss the role of various forms of autophagy in neurodegenerative diseases, with a particular focus on Parkinson’s disease. We describe recent findings that have led to the proposal of therapeutic strategies targeting autophagy to alter the course of Parkinson’s disease progression.
PXR Suppresses PPARα-Dependent HMGCS2 Gene Transcription by Inhibiting the Interaction between PPARα and PGC1α
Authors: Shizu Ryota , Ezaki Kanako , Sato Takumi , Sugawara Ayaka , Hosaka Takuomi , Sasaki Takamitsu , Yoshinari Kouichi
Published: December 2021

Background: PXR is a xenobiotic-responsive nuclear receptor that controls the expression of drug-metabolizing enzymes. Drug-induced activation of PXR sometimes causes drug–drug interactions due to the induced metabolism of co-administered drugs. Our group recently reported a possible drug–drug interaction mechanism via an interaction between the nuclear receptors CAR and PPARα. As CAR and PXR are structurally and functionally related receptors, we investigated possible crosstalk between PXR and PPARα. Methods: Human hepatocyte-like HepaRG cells were treated with various PXR ligands, and mRNA levels were determined by quantitative reverse transcription PCR. Reporter assays using the HMGCS2 promoter containing a PPARα-binding motif and mammalian two-hybrid assays were performed in HepG2 or COS-1 cells. Results: Treatment with PXR activators reduced the mRNA levels of PPARα target genes in HepaRG cells. In reporter assays, PXR suppressed PPARα-dependent gene expression in HepG2 cells. In COS-1 cells, co-expression of PGC1α, a common coactivator of PPARα and PXR, enhanced PPARα-dependent gene transcription, which was clearly suppressed by PXR. Consistently, in mammalian two-hybrid assays, the interaction between PGC1α and PPARα was attenuated by ligand-activated PXR. Conclusion: The present results suggest that ligand-activated PXR suppresses PPARα-dependent gene expression by inhibiting PGC1α recruitment.
Progression of Myeloproliferative Neoplasms (MPN): Diagnostic and Therapeutic Perspectives
Authors: Baumeister Julian , Chatain Nicolas , Sofias Alexandros Marios , Lammers Twan , Koschmieder Steffen
Published: December 2021

Classical BCR-ABL-negative myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN) are a heterogeneous group of hematologic malignancies, including essential thrombocythemia (ET), polycythemia vera (PV), and primary myelofibrosis (PMF), as well as post-PV-MF and post-ET-MF. Progression to more symptomatic disease, such as overt MF or acute leukemia, represents one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality. There are clinically evident but also subclinical types of MPN progression. Clinically evident progression includes evolution from ET to PV, ET to post-ET-MF, PV to post-PV-MF, or pre-PMF to overt PMF, and transformation of any of these subtypes to myelodysplastic neoplasms or acute leukemia. Thrombosis, major hemorrhage, severe infections, or increasing symptom burden (e.g., pruritus, night sweats) may herald progression. Subclinical types of progression may include increases in the extent of bone marrow fibrosis, increases of driver gene mutational allele burden, and clonal evolution. The underlying causes of MPN progression are diverse and can be attributed to genetic alterations and chronic inflammation. Particularly, bystander mutations in genes encoding epigenetic regulators or splicing factors were associated with progression. Finally, comorbidities such as systemic inflammation, cardiovascular diseases, and organ fibrosis may augment the risk of progression. The aim of this review was to discuss types and mechanisms of MPN progression and how their knowledge might improve risk stratification and therapeutic intervention. In view of these aspects, we discuss the potential benefits of early diagnosis using molecular and functional imaging and exploitable therapeutic strategies that may prevent progression, but also highlight current challenges and methodological pitfalls.
Emerging Molecular Dependencies of Mutant EGFR-Driven Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Farnsworth Dylan A. , Chen Yankuan T. , de Rappard Yuswack Georgia , Lockwood William W.
Published: December 2021

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations are the molecular driver of a subset of non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLC); tumors that harbor these mutations are often dependent on sustained oncogene signaling for survival, a concept known as “oncogene addiction”. Inhibiting EGFR with tyrosine kinase inhibitors has improved clinical outcomes for patients; however, successive generations of inhibitors have failed to prevent the eventual emergence of resistance to targeted agents. Although these tumors have a well-established dependency on EGFR signaling, there remain questions about the underlying genetic mechanisms necessary for EGFR-driven oncogenesis and the factors that allow tumor cells to escape EGFR dependence. In this review, we highlight the latest findings on mutant EGFR dependencies, co-operative drivers, and molecular mechanisms that underlie sensitivity to EGFR inhibitors. Additionally, we offer perspective on how these discoveries may inform novel combination therapies tailored to EGFR mutant NSCLC.
Capturing Pluripotency and Beyond
Authors: Yeh Chih-Yu , Huang Wei-Han , Chen Hung-Chi , Meir Yaa-Jyuhn James
Published: December 2021

During the development of a multicellular organism, the specification of different cell lineages originates in a small group of pluripotent cells, the epiblasts, formed in the preimplantation embryo. The pluripotent epiblast is protected from premature differentiation until exposure to inductive cues in strictly controlled spatially and temporally organized patterns guiding fetus formation. Epiblasts cultured in vitro are embryonic stem cells (ESCs), which recapitulate the self-renewal and lineage specification properties of their endogenous counterparts. The characteristics of totipotency, although less understood than pluripotency, are becoming clearer. Recent studies have shown that a minor ESC subpopulation exhibits expanded developmental potential beyond pluripotency, displaying a characteristic reminiscent of two-cell embryo blastomeres (2CLCs). In addition, reprogramming both mouse and human ESCs in defined media can produce expanded/extended pluripotent stem cells (EPSCs) similar to but different from 2CLCs. Further, the molecular roadmaps driving the transition of various potency states have been clarified. These recent key findings will allow us to understand eutherian mammalian development by comparing the underlying differences between potency network components during development. Using the mouse as a paradigm and recent progress in human PSCs, we review the epiblast’s identity acquisition during embryogenesis and their ESC counterparts regarding their pluripotent fates and beyond.
Educating Clinicians to Improve Telemedicine Access for Patients with Limited English Proficiency
Authors: Shin Tiffany M. , Ortega Pilar , Hardin Karol
Published: December 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic prompted the rapid incorporation of telemedicine into healthcare systems, resulting in increased access challenges for patients in the United States with limited English proficiency (LEP). Non-English-language speakers face challenges with telemedicine that magnify pre-existing barriers to language-appropriate care, such as difficulty accessing professional medical interpreters and navigating both electronic health information and online patient portals. Improved medical education on telehealth would increase equitable care for linguistic minorities. Medical education targeting telehealth care delivery should include clinician instruction on working with interpreters in telehealth contexts, increasing patient access to telehealth resources, and addressing patients’ language needs for telemedicine.
Detection of Virulence Genes and Biofilm Forming Capacity of Diarrheagenic E. coli Isolated from Different Water Sources
Authors: Tariq Sadaf , Tabassum Sobia , Aslam Sadia , Sillanpaa Mika , Al-Qahtani Wahidah , Ali Shafaqat
Published: December 2021

Diarrheagenic Escherichia coli (DEC) are associated with frequent incidences of waterborne infections and pose health risk to individuals who contact water for domestic or recreational uses. Detection of DEC pathotypes in drinking water can be used as an indicator of fecal contamination. This study aimed to investigate the occurrence of DEC pathotypes and their capacity to form biofilms in drinking water samples collected from different water sources. In this study, PCR analysis was used to determine the occurrence of four clinically significant virulence genes of diarrheagenic E. coli, eaeA (Enteropathogenic E. coli), stx1, stx2 (Enterohemorrhagic E. coli) and sth (Enterotoxigenic E. coli), in drinking water samples (n = 35) by using specific primers and conditions. PCR amplicons were visualized by using agarose gel electrophoresis. A total of 12/35 (34%) samples were detected as positive for at least one of the four DEC virulence genes and 11/12 (91%) E. coli isolates harbored virulence gene while 1/12 (8%) E. coli isolates harbored none. The eaeA and sth genes were the most detected genes (75%), while stx1 and stx2 genes were least detected genes (66%). Biofilm assay confirmed that ETEC pathotypes can cause damage in enteric walls by attaching and effacing to persist diarrheal conditions. This study indicated that drinking water of different sources is contaminated with potential DEC pathotypes and it can be a source of diarrheal diseases. The amplification of four virulence genes associated with DEC pathotypes (EPEC, EHEC and ETEC) in drinking water demonstrates that potentially virulent DEC pathotypes are distributed in water sources and may be a cause of health concern. There is, therefore, an urgent need to monitor DEC pathotypes in drinking water.
A Lightweight BPMN Extension for Business Process-Oriented Requirements Engineering
Authors: Intrigila Benedetto , Della Penna Giuseppe , D’Ambrogio Andrea
Published: December 2021

Process-oriented requirements engineering approaches are often required to deal with the effective adaptation of existing processes in order to easily introduce new or updated requirements. Such approaches are based on the adoption of widely used notations, such as the one introduced by the Business Process Model and Notation (BPMN) standard. However, BPMN models do not convey enough information on the involved entities and how they interact with process activities, thus leading to ambiguities, as well as to incomplete and inconsistent requirements definitions. This paper proposes an approach that allows stakeholders and software analysts to easily merge and integrate behavioral and data properties in a BPMN model, so as to fully exploit the potential of BPMN without incurring into the aforementioned limitation. The proposed approach introduces a lightweight BPMN extension that specifically addresses the annotation of data properties in terms of constraints, i.e., pre- and post-conditions that the different process activities must satisfy. The visual representation of the annotated model conveys all the information required both by stakeholders, to understand and validate requirements, and by software analysts and developers, to easily map these updates to the corresponding software implementation. The presented approach is illustrated by use of two running examples, which have also been used to carry out a preliminary validation activity.
Dosimeter Based on YAG: Ce Phosphor via Sol-Gel Method for Online X-ray Radiation Monitoring
Authors: Yan Yuheng , Zhang Changfeng , Zheng Luchuan , Wang Taiqi , Li Mao , Xie Feiyang , Guo Qiang , Peng Gangding
Published: December 2021

This paper focuses on the preparation of cerium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (YAG: Ce) powder with several concentration gradients via the sol-gel method by detecting its structural characteristics via X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns and scanning electron microscope (SEM) to verify the generation of a complete crystal phase and evenly distributed nanopowder. On this basis, the luminescence characteristics of Ce3+ are explored, the mechanism and model are discussed based on the spectra, and the ideal doping concentration was obtained by comparing the luminescence intensity along with the fluorescence quenching theory and fluorescence decay spectra of samples with different doping concentrations. Several radiation dosimeters based on YAG: Ce phosphors were made; the online radiation monitoring function was realized under the exposure of a standard X-ray source; the repeatability, accuracy, and sensitivity of the system were verified by experiments; and the factors affecting dosimeter response are discussed. This paper verifies the possibility of adhibiting YAG: Ce fluorescent powder for online X-ray monitoring, and lays the foundation for further research.
Theoretical Investigations of a BN Polymorph with sp2 + sp3 Hybridizations
Authors: Yu Xinhai , Su Riguge , He Bei , Ma Binchang
Published: December 2021

The crystal structure, mechanical anisotropy, elastic properties and electronic characteristics, as well as the stability, of P4/m BN are predicted by means of density functional theory. In this work, BN in the P4/m phase demonstrates mechanical and dynamical stability. Compared with the values of bulk B, E and G in the P4/m phase, the B of BN in the P4/m phase is greater than that of dz4 BN, while the G and E of P4/m BN are greater than those of Pnc2 BN and dz4 BN. The ratio of the bulk-to-shear modulus for P4/m BN is less than 1.75 and dz4 BN, dz2 BN and lzlz2 BN, indicating that P4/m BN is more brittle than dz4 BN, dz2 BN and lzlz2 BN. P4/m BN exhibits stronger mechanical anisotropy in G and E than Pbca BN, P42/mnm BN and Pm-3m BN but much weaker mechanical anisotropy than P4/mbm BN, B7N7, B11N11 and B15N15. In addition, P4/m BN is a quasi-direct bandgap semiconductor, and the difference between the direct and the indirect bandgap is 0.008 eV. In order to obtain further characteristics of P4/m BN for future synthetic verification, the X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns for P4/m BN are also calculated. Given its properties, P4/m BN is a good candidate for photoelectric devices.
Combination of Lenvatinib and Pembrolizumab as Salvage Treatment for Paucicellular Variant of Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer: A Case Report
Authors: Luongo Cristina , Porcelli Tommaso , Sessa Francesca , De Stefano Maria Angela , Scavuzzo Francesco , Damiano Vincenzo , Klain Michele , Bellevicine Claudio , Matano Elide , Troncone Giancarlo , Schlumberger Martin , Salvatore Domenico
Published: December 2021

Anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC) is a rare but aggressive thyroid cancer, responsible for about 50% of all thyroid cancer-related deaths. During the last two decades, the development of a multimodal personalized approach resulted in an increased survival. Here, we present an unusual case of a 54-year old woman with a paucicellular metastatic ATC, a rare variant of ATC, who was treated with a combination of surgery, radiation therapy and cytotoxic chemotherapy. More than two years later, when the disease was rapidly growing, a combination of lenvatinib and pembrolizumab induced a partial tumor response of lung metastasis that persisted over 18 months. Paucicellular ATC may initially show a less aggressive behavior compared to other histological ATC variants. However, over the time, its clinical course can rapidly progress like common ATC. The combination of lenvatinib and pembrolizumab was effective as a salvage therapy for a long period of time.
Extent of Groin Dissection in Melanoma: A Mixed-Methods, Population-Based Study of Practice Patterns and Outcomes
Authors: Küpper Suzana , Austin Janice L. , Dingley Brittany , Xu Yuan , Kong Kristine , Brar Mantaj , Wright Frances C. , Nessim Carolyn , Bouchard-Fortier Antoine , Quan May Lynn
Published: December 2021

Melanoma metastases to the groin are frequently managed by therapeutic lymph node dissection. Evidence is lacking regarding the extent of dissection required. Thus, we sought to describe practice patterns for the use of inguinal vs. ilioinguinal dissection, as well as the perioperative/oncologic outcomes of each procedure. A mixed-methods approach was employed to evaluate surgical practice patterns. A retrospective review of three multi-site databases was carried out, together with semi-structured interviews of melanoma surgeons. A total of 347 patients who underwent dissection were reviewed. The main indications stated for adding a “deep” ilioinguinal dissection were palpable or radiologically positive disease. There was no significant difference in complications, length of stay or lymphedema between patients having inguinal vs. ilioinguinal dissection, irrespective of method of diagnosis. There was also no significant difference in recurrence, cancer-specific survival or overall survival between groups. In conclusion, ilioinguinal dissection is a safe and well-tolerated procedure, with no significant added morbidity relative to an inguinal dissection. The indications for ilioinguinal dissection currently in use produce an appropriate deep node positivity rate and ilioinguinal dissection should continue to be used selectively. Randomized data are needed to clarify the impact of ilioinguinal dissection on regional control and survival.
Plecoptera (Insecta) Diversity in Indiana: A Watershed-Based Analysis
Authors: Newman Evan A. , DeWalt R. Edward , Grubbs Scott A.
Published: December 2021

Plecoptera, an environmentally sensitive order of aquatic insects commonly used in water quality monitoring is experiencing decline across the globe. This study addresses the landscape factors that impact the species richness of stoneflies using the US Geological Survey Hierarchical Unit Code 8 drainage scale (HUC8) in the state of Indiana. Over 6300 specimen records from regional museums, literature, and recent efforts were assigned to HUC8 drainages. A total of 93 species were recorded from the state. The three richest of 38 HUC8s were the Lower East Fork White (66 species), the Blue-Sinking (58), and the Lower White (51) drainages, all concentrated in the southern unglaciated part of the state. Richness was predicted using nine variables, reduced from 116 and subjected to AICc importance and hierarchical partitioning. AICc importance revealed four variables associated with Plecoptera species richness, topographic wetness index, HUC8 area, % soil hydrolgroup C/D, and % historic wetland ecosystem. Hierarchical partitioning indicated topographic wetness index, HUC8 area, and % cherty red clay surface geology as significantly important to predicting species richness. This analysis highlights the importance of hydrology and glacial history in species richness of Plecoptera. The accumulated data are primed to be used for monograph production, niche modeling, and conservation status assessment for an entire assemblage in a large geographic area.
The Role of Citizen Science in the Research and Management of Invasive Lionfish across the Western Atlantic
Authors: Clements Kaylin R. , Karp Philip , Harris Holden E. , Ali Fadilah , Candelmo Alli , Rodríguez Sara Juliana , Balcázar-Escalera Cristina , Fogg Alexander Q. , Green Stephanie J. , Solomon Jennifer N.
Published: December 2021

Managing invasive Indo-Pacific lionfish (Pterois volitans and P. miles) in the Western Atlantic Ocean is beyond the capacity of natural resource organizations alone. In response, organizations have mobilized members of the public and citizen scientists to help. We used a structured survey to assess the activities and perceptions of 71 organizations that engage the public and citizen scientists in lionfish research and management throughout the invaded range of the Western Atlantic. Five case studies were also conducted that exemplified varied and multi-pronged approaches to engagement of the public and citizen scientists in lionfish control, monitoring, and knowledge-sharing. The public has been engaged to some extent in every approach, but organizations most frequently indicated engaging members of the public in raising awareness, promoting consumption, organized culling/removal, tournaments, and data collection. Sixty-five percent of organizations surveyed engaged the public in data collection, and data collection was ranked as the scientific research activity in which the public is most often involved. Most organizations indicated their data has contributed to scientific publications, management, and government agency research and/or policy. Collectively these findings demonstrate the conservation value of citizen scientists to assist organizational efforts to control, manage, and study a large-scale marine invasion.
Does the Urinary Proteome Reflect ccRCC Stage and Grade Progression?
Authors: Santorelli Lucia , Stella Martina , Chinello Clizia , Capitoli Giulia , Piga Isabella , Smith Andrew , Grasso Angelica , Grasso Marco , Bovo Giorgio , Magni Fulvio
Published: December 2021

Due its ability to provide a global snapshot of kidney physiology, urine has emerged as a highly promising, non-invasive source in the search for new molecular indicators of disease diagnosis, prognosis, and surveillance. In particular, proteomics represents an ideal strategy for the identification of urinary protein markers; thus, a urinomic approach could also represent a powerful tool in the investigation of the most common kidney cancer, which is clear cell Renal Cell Carcinoma (ccRCC). Currently, these tumors are classified after surgical removal using the TNM and nuclear grading systems and prognosis is usually predicted based upon staging. However, the aggressiveness and clinical outcomes of ccRCC remain heterogeneous within each stratified group, highlighting the need for novel molecular indicators that can predict the progression of these tumors. In our study, we explored the association between the urinary proteome and the ccRCC staging and grading classification. The urine proteome of 44 ccRCC patients with lesions of varying severity was analyzed via label-free proteomics. MS data revealed several proteins with altered abundance according to clinicopathological stratification. Specifically, we determined a panel of dysregulated proteins strictly related to stage and grade, suggesting the potential utility of MS-based urinomics as a complementary tool in the staging process of ccRCC.
Distributions of Aβ42 and Aβ42/40 in the Cerebrospinal Fluid in View of the Probability Theory
Authors: Lewczuk Piotr , Wiltfang Jens , Kornhuber Johannes , Verhasselt Anneleen
Published: December 2021

Amyloid β 42/40 concentration quotient has been empirically shown to improve accuracy of the neurochemical diagnostics of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) compared to the Aβ42 concentration alone, but this improvement in diagnostic performance has not been backed up by a theoretical argumentation so far. In this report we show that better accuracy of Aβ42/40 compared to Aβ1-42 is granted by fundamental laws of probability. In particular, it can be shown that the dispersion of a distribution of a quotient of two random variables (Aβ42/40) is smaller than the dispersion of the random variable in the numerator (Aβ42), provided that the two variables are proportional. Further, this concept predicts and explains presence of outlying observations, i.e., AD patients with falsely negatively high Aβ42/40 ratio, and non-AD subjects with extremely low, falsely positive, Aβ42/40 ratio.
Development and Validation of a Targeted ‘Liquid’ NGS Panel for Treatment Customization in Patients with Metastatic Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Kastrisiou Myrto , Zarkavelis George , Kougioumtzi Anastasia , Sakaloglou Prodromos , Kostoulas Charilaos , Georgiou Ioannis , Batistatou Anna , Pentheroudakis George , Magklara Angeliki
Published: December 2021

The detection of actionable mutations in tumor tissue is a prerequisite for treatment customization in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). Analysis of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) for the identification of such mutations in patients’ plasma is an attractive alternative to invasive tissue biopsies. Despite having the high analytical sensitivity required for ctDNA analysis, digital polymerase chain reaction (dPCR) technologies can only detect a very limited number of hotspot mutations, whilst a broader mutation panel is currently needed for clinical decision making. Recent advances in next-generation sequencing (NGS) have led to high-sensitivity platforms that allow screening of multiple genes at a single assay. Our goal was to develop a small, cost- and time-effective NGS gene panel that could be easily integrated in the day-to-day clinical routine in the management of patients with mCRC. We designed a targeted panel comprising hotspots in six clinically relevant genes (KRAS, NRAS, MET, BRAF, ERBB2 and EGFR) and validated it in a total of 68 samples from 30 patients at diagnosis, first and second disease progression. Results from our NGS panel were compared against plasma testing with BEAMing dPCR regarding the RAS gene status. The overall percent of agreement was 83.6%, with a positive and negative percent agreement of 74.3% and 96.2%, respectively. Further comparison of plasma NGS with standard tissue testing used in the clinic showed an overall percent agreement of 86.7% for RAS status, with a positive and negative percent agreement of 81.2% and 92.8%, respectively. Thus, our study strongly supports the validity and efficiency of an affordable targeted NGS panel for the detection of clinically relevant mutations in patients with mCRC.
Gravity Observations and Apparent Density Changes before the 2017 Jiuzhaigou Ms7.0 Earthquake and Their Precursory Significance
Authors: Yang Jinling , Chen Shi , Zhang Bei , Zhuang Jiancang , Wang Linhai , Lu Hongyan
Published: December 2021

An Ms7.0 earthquake struck Jiuzhaigou (China) on 8 August 2017. The epicenter was in the eastern margin of the Tibetan Plateau, an area covered by a dense time-varying gravity observation network. Data from seven repeated high-precision hybrid gravity surveys (2014–2017) allowed the microGal-level time-varying gravity signal to be obtained at a resolution better than 75 km using the modified Bayesian gravity adjustment method. The “equivalent source” model inversion method in spherical coordinates was adopted to obtain the near-crust apparent density variations before the earthquake. A major gravity change occurred from the southwest to the northeast of the eastern Tibetan Plateau approximately 2 years before the earthquake, and a substantial gravity gradient zone was consistent with the tectonic trend that gradually appeared within the focal area of the Jiuzhaigou earthquake during 2015–2016. Factors that might cause such regional gravitational changes (e.g., vertical crustal deformation and variations in near-surface water distributions) were studied. The results suggest that gravity effects contributed by these known factors were insufficient to produce gravity changes as big as those observed, which might be related to the process of fluid material redistribution in the crust. Regional change of the gravity field has precursory significance for high-risk earthquake areas and it could be used as a candidate precursor for annual medium-term earthquake prediction.
Leadership in Implementing Inclusive Education Policy in Early Childhood Education and Care Playrooms in South Africa
Authors: Bipath Keshni , Tebekana Jongiwe , Venketsamy Roy
Published: December 2021

Leadership plays a central role in improving and sustaining quality in Early Childhood Development (ECD) settings in the South African context. This article explored the leadership of the Inclusive Education Policy (IEP) and the challenges experienced by ECD centre managers and teachers. Children with disabilities are most vulnerable, marginalised, and denied access to early education, especially in rural communities. Grounded in Bronfenbrenner’s ecosystems theory, the study adopted a qualitative approach. The participants included three centre managers and three teachers from Early Childhood Development centres in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. The findings revealed that most participants had minimal knowledge and understanding of the policy and its implementation. There was also a lack of leadership from the policymakers to ensure that the IEP was monitored, supported, and implemented. Our recommendations are that all ECD practitioners receive appropriate training and development on the policy, ongoing support and guidance in implementing the policy, and proper resources for their centres and playrooms (financial, physical, and human resources).
Remote Teaching in Professor Training: Three Latin American Experiences in Times of COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Aquino Orlando Fernández , Zuta Patricia Medina , Cao Eldis Román
Published: December 2021

The subject matter has been based on three systematizations of experiences in teacher training through remote teaching, during the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020–2021. They were developed in IES in Brazil, Ecuador, and Peru. The objective has been to show the experiences implemented to build the teachers’ pedagogical knowledge, from online teaching practices. The theoretical framework has been the theory of collaborative and developmental learning, according to L. S. Vigotski and his followers. The work methodology has been the systematization of experiences, according to Jara and others. The results of the Brazilian experience show how it is possible for students of the degree in pedagogy to acquire didactic knowledge and develop skills, through collaborative work in virtual rooms. The Ecuadorian experience shows the effectiveness of teaching focused on autonomous work, which is based on asynchronous activities. The results of the experience in Peru show how asynchronous accompaniment is an effective means for guidance and sustained feedback by the trainer, with an impact on the process of construction of a scientific text and on the productivity of the doctoral student in Education.
Parental (STEM) Occupations, the Home Numeracy Environment, and Kindergarten Children’s Numerical Competencies
Authors: Mues Anna , Birtwistle Efsun , Wirth Astrid , Niklas Frank
Published: December 2021

Children’s early numerical competencies are of great importance for later academic achievement. Young children gain these competencies in the context of the home numeracy environment (HNE). Additionally, child characteristics and families’ socioeconomic status (SES) are associated with children’s competencies. In this study, we investigated parents’ occupations (i.e., STEM or non-STEM occupation) as a specific aspect of the SES to understand whether parental occupations are associated with children’s numerical competencies and whether such an association may depend on the HNE. We analysed data from a sample of N = 190 children (Mage = 63.58 months; SD = 4.41) at two measurement points. Correlational analyses and crossed-lagged models were conducted to predict children’s numerical competencies by a global measure of the HNE and parental STEM vs. non-STEM occupations. We found significant associations between parents’ learned and current occupations and the HNE. Further, significant associations between parents’ learned occupations and children’s numerical competencies were observed. However, parents’ current occupations were not significantly associated with children’s numerical competencies. Consequently, more specific facets of the SES instead of a global measure seem to be associated with children’s numerical competencies. A greater focus on specific differences between family characteristics and their potential impact on children’s HNE and the development of their numerical competencies seems expedient.
A New Event-Triggered Type-3 Fuzzy Control System for Multi-Agent Systems: Optimal Economic Efficient Approach for Actuator Activating
Authors: Yan Shurong , Aly Ayman A. , Felemban Bassem F. , Gheisarnejad Meysam , Tian Manwen , Khooban Mohammad Hassan , Mohammadzadeh Ardashir , Mobayen Saleh
Published: December 2021

This study presents a new approach for multi-agent systems (MASs). The agent dynamics are approximated by the suggested type-3 (T3) fuzzy logic system (FLS). Some sufficient conditions based on the event-triggered scheme are presented to ensure the stability under less activation of the actuators. New tuning rules are obtained for T3-FLSs form the stability and robustness examination. The effect of perturbations, actuator failures and approximation errors are compensated by the designed adaptive compensators. Simulation results show that the output of all agents well converged to the leader agent under disturbances and faulty conditions. Additionally, it is shown that the suggested event-triggered scheme is effective and the actuators are updated about 20–40% of total sample times.
Salp Swarm Optimization Algorithm for Estimating the Parameters of Photovoltaic Panels Based on the Three-Diode Model
Authors: Montano Jhon , Mejia Andres Felipe Tobon , Rosales Muñoz Andrés Alfonso , Andrade Fabio , Garzon Rivera Oscar D. , Palomeque José Mena
Published: December 2021

Due to the the lack of information about parameters in the datasheets of photovoltaic (PV) panels, it is difficult to study their modeling because PV behavior is based on voltage–current (V-I) data, which present a highly nonlinear relationship. To solve this difficulty, this study presents a mathematical three-diode model of a PV panel that includes multiple unknown parameters: photoinduced current, saturation currents of the three diodes, three ideality factors, serial resistance, and parallel resistance. These parameters should be estimated in the three-diode model of a PV panel to obtain the actual values that represent the voltage–current profile or the voltage–power profile (because of its visual simplicity) of the PV panel under analysis. In order to solve this problem, this paper proposes a new application of the salp swarm algorithm (SSA) to estimate the parameters of a three-diode model of a PV panel. Two test scenarios were implemented with two different PV panels, i.e., Kyocera KC200GT and Solarex MSX60, which generate different power levels and are widely used for commercial purposes. The results of the simulations were obtained using different irradiance levels. The proposed PV model was evaluated based on the experimental results of the PV modules analyzed in this paper. The efficiency of the optimization technique proposed here, i.e., SSA, was measured by a fair comparison between its numerical results and those of other optimization techniques tuned to obtain the best response in terms of the objective function.
A Study on the Development of Carbon Fiber with Electromagnetic Wave Shielding Performance and Sizing Removal State Measurement Algorithm Using Image Processing
Authors: Cho Joon-Ho
Published: December 2021

In this paper, nickel-plated carbon fiber was fabricated by a dry process method to improve electromagnetic wave shielding performance. In general, carbon fiber is wrapped in a polymer type in manufacturing and is used after removing the sizing in the pretreatment step for dry coating. The existing sizing removal method was used by removing only with a solution or only with compressed air. In this paper, the method of solution and compressed air (hybrid) was added. The state in which the sizing was removed was determined only by the know-how of the experienced person, and in this paper, it is proposed to represent the numerical value by applying the image processing surface analysis technique. As a result, it was possible to numerically indicate that the hybrid method was excellent among the sizing removal methods and it was possible to manufacture the nickel-plated carbon fibers (30 μm, 40 μm, and 100 μm) by a roll-to-roll sputtering method on the sizing-removed spreading carbon fiber roll. The electromagnetic wave shielding performance of 100 nickel-coated carbon fiber measured by the Korea Testing Laboratory showed the highest electromagnetic wave shielding performance from 66.7 (dB) to 73.2 (dB). This is similar to the electromagnetic wave shielding rate of copper, so it can be used as a cable for EV/HEV vehicles, and it is expected to have a great effect of improving the bending characteristics and disconnection phenomenon and improving the lifespan compared to the existing copper wire.
A Novel Blockchain-Based Encryption Model to Protect Fog Nodes from Behaviors of Malicious Nodes
Authors: Alshehri Mohammed , Panda Brajendra , Almakdi Sultan , Alazeb Abdulwahab , Halawani Hanan , Al Mudawi Naif , Khan Riaz U.
Published: December 2021

The world has experienced a huge advancement in computing technology. People prefer outsourcing their confidential data for storage and processing in cloud computing because of the auspicious services provided by cloud service providers. As promising as this paradigm is, it creates issues, including everything from data security to time latency with data computation and delivery to end-users. In response to these challenges, the fog computing paradigm was proposed as an extension of cloud computing to overcome the time latency and communication overhead and to bring computing and storage resources close to both the ground and the end-users. However, fog computing inherits the same security and privacy challenges encountered by traditional cloud computing. This paper proposed a fine-grained data access control approach by integrating the ciphertext policy attribute-based encryption (CP-ABE) algorithm and blockchain technology to secure end-users’ data security against rogue fog nodes in case a compromised fog node is ousted. In this approach, we proposed federations of fog nodes that share the same attributes, such as services and locations. The fog federation concept minimizes the time latency and communication overhead between fog nodes and cloud servers. Furthermore, the blockchain idea and the CP-ABE algorithm integration allow for fog nodes within the same fog federation to conduct a distributed authorization process. Besides that, to address time latency and communication overhead issues, we equip each fog node with an off-chain database to store the most frequently accessed data files for a particular time, as well as an on-chain access control policies table (on-chain files tracking table) that must be protected from tampering by rogue fog nodes. As a result, the blockchain plays a critical role here because it is tamper-proof by nature. We assess our approach’s efficiency and feasibility by conducting a simulation and analyzing its security and performance.
Techno-Economic and Environmental Assessment of the Hybrid Energy System Considering Electric and Thermal Loads
Authors: Xing Li-Ning , Xu Hong-Long , Sani Armin Kardan , Hossain Md. Alamgir , Muyeen S. M.
Published: December 2021

Optimal sizing of hybrid energy systems has been considerably investigated in previous studies. Nevertheless, most studies only focused on providing AC electric loads by renewable energy sources (RESs) and energy storage systems (ESSs). In this paper, a hybrid energy system, including photovoltaic (PV) system, ESS, fuel cell (FC), natural gas (NG) boiler, thermal load controller (TLC), and converter is optimized for supplying different load demands. Three scenarios are introduced to investigate the feasibility of the energy system. Environmental aspects of each system are analyzed, as there are NG-consuming sources in the system structure. A sensitivity analysis is conducted on the influential parameters of the system, such as inflation rate and interest rate. Simulation results show that the proposed hybrid energy system is economically and technically feasible. The net present cost (NPC) and cost of energy (COE) of the system are obtained at $230,223 and $0.0409, respectively. The results indicate that the TLC plays a key role in the optimal operation of the PV system and the reduction in greenhouse gas emission productions.
Efficiency Advantages of the Separated Electric Compound Propulsion System for CNG Hybrid Vehicles
Authors: Pipitone Emiliano , Caltabellotta Salvatore
Published: December 2021

As is widely known, internal combustion engines are not able to complete the expansion process of the gas inside the cylinder, causing theoretical energy losses in the order of 20%. Several systems and methods have been proposed and implemented to recover the unexpanded gas energy, such as turbocharging, which partially exploits this energy to compress the fresh intake charge, or turbo-mechanical and turbo-electrical compounding, where the amount of unexpanded gas energy not used by the compressor is dedicated to propulsion or is transformed into electric energy. In all of these cases, however, maximum efficiency improvements between 4% and 9% have been achieved. In this work, the authors deal with an alternative propulsion system composed of a CNG-fueled spark ignition engine equipped with a turbine-generator specifically dedicated to unexpanded exhaust gas energy recovery and with a separated electrically driven turbocompressor. The system was conceived specifically for hybrid propulsion architectures, with the electric energy produced by the turbine generator being easily storable in the on-board energy storage system and re-usable for vehicle traction. The proposed separated electric turbo-compound system has not been studied in the scientific literature, nor have its benefits ever been analyzed. In this paper, the performances of the analyzed turbo-compound system are evaluated and compared with a traditional reference turbocharged engine from a hybrid application perspective. It is demonstrated that separated electric compounding has great potential, with promising overall efficiency advantages: fuel consumption reductions of up to 15% are estimated for the same power output level.