bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimation of Physicochemical Parameters and Vertical Migration of Atmospheric Radionuclides in a Raised Peat Bog in the Arctic Zone of Russia
Authors: Yakovlev Evgeny , Orlov Alexander , Kudryavtseva Alina , Zykov Sergey
Published: October 2022

The article presents the results of a study of activity levels and features of the vertical distribution of 210Pb, 137Cs, 234U, 238U and their relationship with the physicochemical parameters of peat deposits. Analysis of the data showed that the vertical distribution of 137Cs and 210Pb was related to the content of water-soluble salts, the water saturation of the deposit, and the values of Eh (oxidation–reduction potential) and rH (relative humidity), which indicates a complex geochemical barrier at a depth of 20 cm in the peat core. The 210Pb dating of the peat core, carried out according to the CF model using the Monte Carlo method (to improve the dating accuracy), showed that the above horizon corresponded to 1963, which is consistent with the data of the 137Cs reference horizon and in terms of several physicochemical parameters (in particular, ash content) also corresponds to the age of 1963, which confirms the correctness and adequacy of the chosen peat core dating model. The peak of anthropogenic radionuclides in peat deposits correlates with a particular major event in the history of radioactive fallout, the Partial Nuclear Test Ban Treaty of 1963, providing a benchmark for geochronological research. The obtained results of the linear accumulation rate, the mass accumulation rate of the peat deposit, and the value of the atmospheric flux of 210Pb are congruent with the data on the peatlands of Northern Europe and the data obtained by earlier analysts of the Subarctic region of European Russia.
Research on Key Technologies of Super-Resolution Reconstruction of Medium and Long Wave Maritime Infrared Image
Authors: Ren Zhipeng , Zhao Jianping , Wang Chao , Ma Xiaocong , Lou Yan , Wang Peng
Published: October 2022

Complex illumination, solar flares and heavy smog on the sea surface have caused difficulties to accurately obtain high-quality imaging and multi-dimensional information of marine monitoring targets, such as oil spill, red tide and underwater vehicle wake. The principle of existing imaging mechanism is complex, and thus it is not practical to capture high-resolution infrared images efficiently. To combat this challenge by utilizing new infrared optical materials and single point diamond-turning technology, we designed and processed a simple, light and strong condensing ability medium and long wavelength infrared imaging optical system with large relative aperture, which can obtain high-quality infrared images. On top of this, with the training from a combination of infrared and visible light images, we also proposed a super-resolution network model, which is composed of a feature extraction layer, an information extraction block and a reconstruction block. The initial features of the input images are recognized in feature extraction layer. Next, to supply missing feature information and recover more details on infrared image extracted from a dense connection block, a feature mapping attention mechanism is introduced. Its main function is to transfer the important feature information of the visible light images in the information extraction block. Finally, the global feature information is integrated in the reconstruction block to reconstruct the high-resolution infrared image. We experimented our algorithm on both of the public Kaist datasets and self-collected datasets, and then compared it with several relevant algorithms. The results showed that our algorithm can significantly improve the reconstruction performance and reveal more detail information, and enhance the visual effect. Therefore, it brings excellent potential in dealing with the problem of low resolution of optical infrared imaging in complex marine environment.
A Revised Meiyu-Season Onset Index for Taiwan Based on ERA5
Authors: Lee Ching-Teng , Wang Shih-Yu Simon , Lo Tzu-Ting
Published: October 2022

Revisiting the defined Meiyu onset of Central Weather Bureau (CWB), this study applied a newer reanalysis dataset and added multiple timing and duration criteria to improve the Meiyu onset index. The previous Meiyu onset index was based on horizontal and vertical wind shears using older-generation reanalysis data. The horizontal shear captures the cyclonic vorticity while the vertical shear depicts overturning. However, this older index tends to predict the onset date too early from the actual maximum precipitation. After applying the modification that is described in this paper, the newer Meiyu onset index consistently leads the maximum precipitation in Taiwan only by a few days, except for two years over the 30-year analysis period. The implication of this modified and improved Meiyu onset index is that it can substitute model precipitation that tends to be problematic, as well as studying climate change impacts.
Geometric Study of 2D-Wave Equations in View of K-Symbol Airy Functions
Authors: Hadid Samir B. , Ibrahim Rabha W.
Published: October 2022

The notion of k-symbol special functions has recently been introduced. This new concept offers many interesting geometric properties for these special functions including logarithmic convexity. The aim of the present paper is to exploit essentially two-dimensional wave propagation in the earth-ionosphere wave path using k-symbol Airy functions (KAFs) in the open unit disk. It is shown that the standard wave-mode working formula may be determined by orthogonality considerations without the use of intricate justifications of the complex plane. By taking into account the symmetry-convex depiction of the KAFs, the formula combination is derived.
The Laplace Transform of Composed Functions and Bivariate Bell Polynomials
Authors: Caratelli Diego , Srivastava Rekha , Ricci Paolo Emilio
Published: October 2022

The problem of computing the Laplace transform of composed functions has not found its way into the literature because it was customarily believed that there were no suitable formula to solve it. Actually, it has been shown in previous work that by making use of Bell polynomials, efficient approximations can be found. Moreover, using an extension of Bell’s polynomials to bivariate functions, it is also possible to approximate the Laplace transform of composed functions of two variables. This topic is solved in this paper and some numerical verifications, due to the first author using the computer algebra system Mathematica©, are given proving the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Year-Long Assessment of Soil Nematode Diversity and Root Inhibition-Indicator Nematode Genera in Rice Fields
Authors: Nisa Rawhat Un , Nisa Anees Un , Hroobi Ali Ahmed , Shah Ali Asghar , Tantray Aadil Yousuf
Published: October 2022

Soil nematodes contribute to nutrient cycling. This year-long study aimed to investigate the changes in the diversity of soil nematodes during the spring, summer, and winter seasons in rice fields at 24 sites and to determine the indicator nematode genera that inhibit the roots of rice plants. A total of 216 soil samples were collected during three seasons, and the collection of 72 root samples was carried out during rice cropping. Forty-four soil nematode genera were identified. They exhibited significant changers in their abundance, which were dependent on the seasons and on soil characteristics. In particular, the abundance of plant-parasitic nematodes (PPNs) and free-living soil nematodes was 49% and 15% higher during the summer than during the spring and winter seasons, respectively. Soil characteristics, such as soil nitrogen (N) contents, carbon (C) contents, and soil moisture were significantly higher during the summer than in the spring and winter seasons, but soil pH was significantly lower during the summer than in the spring and winter seasons. Moreover, Hirschmanniella, Meloidogyne, and Heterodera emerged as good indicators for rice root inhibition, corroborating the frequency, density, and prominence value of PPNs of the sampled soil and rice roots. This study also indicated that free-living nematode genera, such as Rhabdolaimus, Diplogaster, and Rhabditis, might function as ecological indicators for soil health.
Bio-Inspired Eco-Friendly Superhydrophilic/Underwater Superoleophobic Cotton for Oil-Water Separation and Removal of Heavy Metals
Authors: Li Feiran , Wang Jian , Wang Zhuochao , Ji Dongchao , Wang Shuai , Wei Pengcheng , Cao Wenxin
Published: October 2022

Effective integrated methods for oil-water separation and water remediation have signifi-cance in both energy and environment fields. Materials with both superlyophobic and superlyophilic properties toward water and oil have aroused great attention due to their energy-saving and high-efficient advantages in oil-water separation. However, in order to fulfill the superlyophobicity, low surface tension fluorinated components are always being introduced. These constituents are environmentally harmful, which may lead to additional contamination during the separating process. Moreover, the heavy metal ions, which are water-soluble and highly toxic, are always contained in the oil-water mixtures created during industrial production. Therefore, material that is integrated by both capacities of oil-water separation and removal of heavy metal contamination would be of significance in both industrial applications and environmental sustainability. Herein, inspired by the composition and wettability of the shrimp shell, an eco-friendly chitosan-coated (CTS) cotton was developed. The treated cotton exhibits the superhydrophilic/underwater superoleophobic property and is capable of separating both immiscible oil-water mixtures and stabilized oil-in-water emulsions. More significantly, various harmful water-soluble heavy metal ions can also be effectively removed during the separation of emulsions. The developed CTS coated cotton demonstrates an attractive perspective toward oil-water separation and wastewater treatment in various applications.
Boosting eWOM through Social Media Brand Page Engagement: The Mediating Role of Self-Brand Connection
Authors: Moisescu Ovidiu-Ioan , Gică Oana-Adriana , Herle Flavia-Andreea
Published: October 2022

The present study’s objective is to investigate the influence of active and passive social media brand page engagement on eWOM, via self-brand connection. To accomplish this objective, an online survey was conducted among a sample of Facebook users from Romania, Facebook being the most popular social network worldwide, and Romania being an adequate representation of a European developing country. To assess the proposed research model, we used partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). Our results show that social media brand page engagement, either passive or active, has a positive impact eWOM, both directly and indirectly, via self-brand connection. Additionally, our research reveals that the two types of social media brand page engagement generate eWOM distinctly: although passive engagement has a considerably stronger direct influence on self-brand connection, active engagement is equally influential for both self-brand connection and eWOM. However, due to the mediating role of self-brand connection, the total effect on eWOM is relatively equal for both passive and active engagement. The research provides practical implications for social media marketers, emphasizing the importance of increasing consumers’ engagement with social media brand pages for generating eWOM and, consequently, to attract new customers and to reinforce brand loyalty for existing ones.
Predicting the Geopolymerization Process of Fly-Ash-Based Geopolymer Using Machine Learning
Authors: Chen Kai , Cheng Yunhai , Yu Mingsheng , Liu Long , Wang Yonggang , Zhang Junfei
Published: October 2022

The process of geopolymerization affects the freshness and hardening properties of fly ash base polymer. The prediction of geological polymerization parameters, such as DPT, DPH, GPT, and GPH, is very important for the mixing optimization of FA base polymer. In this study, machine learning models such as backpropagation neural network, support vector regression, random forest, K-nearest neighbor, logistic regression, and multiple linear regression were used to predict the above geological polymerization parameters and explain the influence of composition on the geological polymerization of FA base polymer. Results show that RF was the most stable ML model and had the best predictive performance on the test sets of GPT, GPH, DPT, and DPH, with correlation coefficients of 0.88, 0.95, 0.92, and 0.95, respectively. The variable importance and sensitivity were analyzed by SHapley Additive exPlanations. Results indicate that temperature is the most significant input variable affecting the DPT, DPH, and GPH with SHAP values of 0.09, 4.83, and 1.03, respectively. For GPT, the SHAP value of temperature is 6.89, slightly lower than that of LFR (6.95); yet it is a still significantly important input variable. The mole ratio and alkaline solution concentration were also important and negatively contributed to DPT and DPH, respectively. Besides, both GPT and GPH were sensitive to the mass ratio of liquid-to-fly ash which can promote the geopolymerization extent and shorten the geopolymerization time at a small content. The results of this study pave the way for automatic mixture optimization of FA-based geopolymers.
Performance Improvement of Innovative Shear Damper Using Diagonal Stiffeners for Concentrically Braced Frame Systems
Authors: Thongchom Chanachai , Bahrami Alireza , Ghamari Ali , Benjeddou Omrane
Published: October 2022

Although concentrically braced frame (CBF) systems enjoy high elastic stiffness and lateral strength, they show a low seismic energy absorption capacity. This dilemma is due to the buckling of CBFs’ diagonal members under compressive loading. To overcome the shortcoming, researchers have proposed the use of dampers to improve the behavior of CBF systems. Among the proposed dampers, the metallic shear damper is the most popular thanks to its suitable performance as well as its economic profit. The main shortcoming of the shear dampers is low stiffness. Therefore, in this article, an innovative approach is proposed to improve the behavior of the shear dampers. Subsequently, strengthening the shear damper with X-stiffeners is proposed, and its behavior is evaluated numerically and parametrically. Results indicate that by adding the X-stiffeners, the ultimate strength and elastic stiffness of the shear dampers are enhanced considerably. However, the properties of the stiffeners do not impact the stiffness in the nonlinear zone. Moreover, the behavior of the dampers is affected by parameters such as the ratio of the strength of the web plate to the flange plates, the ratio of the X-stiffeners to the flange plates, and the ρ factor. To consider the parameters to predict the behavior of the damper, required equations are proposed which demonstrate a good agreement with finite element results.
Appraising the Seismic Response of a Retrofitted Adobe Historic Structure, the Role of Modal Updating and Advanced Computations
Authors: Ahmadi Seyed Salar , Karanikoloudis Georgios , Mendes Nuno , Illambas Rogiros , Lourenço Paulo B.
Published: October 2022

The concepts of structural assessment and retrofit of historical constructions are of particular complexity and require advanced knowledge in material science, conservation techniques and structural analysis. In particular, adobe constructions, given their low mechanical properties and brittle failure modes, are in immense need of comprehensive assessment and retrofitting plans. The current work focuses on the adobe Church of Kuñotambo in Peru, having experienced long periods of deterioration and earthquake-related damage. Under the ongoing Seismic Retrofitting Project (SRP) of the Getty Conservation Institute (GCI), the structural assessment of the church initiated in 2015 confirmed the low lateral capacity of the building and the poor connectivity between the structural parts. Based on the existing cracks and damage, a strengthening scheme was optimized and validated. After the implementation of the retrofitting plan, the quality of its execution and efficiency were assessed in 2019 with a new in situ campaign, which included ambient vibration testing (AVT) and sonic testing. From the acquired field data, the FE model of the retrofitted church was optimized, by updating the stiffness properties of masonry and discontinuities. Moreover, nonlinear static analyses were performed on the updated model in all in-plan directions. Finally, a displacement-based performance assessment was undertaken, under different earthquake limit states, demonstrating the adequacy of the retrofitting.
Development of Variable Residential Buildings with 3D-Printed Walls
Authors: García-Alvarado Rodrigo , Moroni-Orellana Ginnia , Banda Pablo
Published: October 2022

New 3D-printing technologies allows to make constructive elements, especially walls, faster and with formal diversity. The 3D-printed elements usually have self-supporting capacities, but they need to be reinforced or integrated into larger structures, to make buildings of large extension or height of several floors. This work proposes a residential construction strategy, focused on Chile, which combines a modular main reinforced concrete structure with partitions made of 3D-printed walls to obtain different housing organizations. For this, a structural grid and range of volumes are defined in BIM. In addition, a parametric programming is developed and prototypes of 3D-printed walls are made. The volumetric development provides a wide repertoire of residential surfaces, while the main structure provides a great flexibility of occupancy. The programming organizes the design and execution process, with numeric analysis and visualization capabilities. The executed prototypes demonstrate a constructive feasibility and architectural appealing. This development expresses the possibility to integrate 3D-printing in massive and varied dwelling construction, and suggests new paths for housing construction with the application of new design technologies and automated manufacturing in construction.
Influence of User Behaviour on the Functioning and Performance of Passive Phase-Change Material Systems after More Than a Decade of Operation
Authors: Obergfell Tabea , Gölz Sebastian , Haussmann Thomas , Gschwander Stefan , Wagner Andreas
Published: October 2022

Phase-change materials (PCM) in buildings are considered a promising option to prevent overheating in warm seasons. Numerous studies have shown a noticeable improvement in thermal comfort through PCM, but in real applications they have often underperformed. User behaviour is often neglected as an important factor in determining PCM performance and might be a limiting factor. Another factor could be time-dependent degradation, which has also been scarcely researched so far. We used simulations within two case studies to investigate whether the PCM applications, each of which had been in operation for more than ten years, were still functioning from a technical perspective and what influence user behaviour had on their performance. We found that the PCM applications still had a positive influence on the thermal performance of the rooms, although the effect due to behavioural optimizations was significantly greater. The PCM was able to reduce the time of discomfort by 9–45% in the baseline scenario with real documented user behaviour in both rooms. Improved user practices increased the reduction in discomfort to 33–52%. For future studies evaluating PCM and its use, we recommend considering realistic user habits, as implementing optimal behaviour could lead to an overestimation of PCM performance and dissatisfaction with the technology.
Quantitative Framework for Bench-to-Bedside Cancer Research
Authors: Zaman Aubhishek , Bivona Trever G.
Published: October 2022

Bioscience is an interdisciplinary venture. Driven by a quantum shift in the volume of high throughput data and in ready availability of data-intensive technologies, mathematical and quantitative approaches have become increasingly common in bioscience. For instance, a recent shift towards a quantitative description of cells and phenotypes, which is supplanting conventional qualitative descriptions, has generated immense promise and opportunities in the field of bench-to-bedside cancer OMICS, chemical biology and pharmacology. Nevertheless, like any burgeoning field, there remains a lack of shared and standardized framework for quantitative cancer research. Here, in the context of cancer, we present a basic framework and guidelines for bench-to-bedside quantitative research and therapy. We outline some of the basic concepts and their parallel use cases for chemical–protein interactions. Along with several recommendations for assay setup and conditions, we also catalog applications of these quantitative techniques in some of the most widespread discovery pipeline and analytical methods in the field. We believe adherence to these guidelines will improve experimental design, reduce variabilities and standardize quantitative datasets.
Colorectal Cancer and the Obese Patient: A Call for Guidelines
Authors: Petrou Nikoletta A. , Rafique Henna , Rasheed Shahnawaz , Tekkis Paris , Kontovounisios Christos
Published: October 2022

The link between obesity and colorectal cancer has been well established. The worldwide rise in obesity rates in the past 40 years means that we are dealing with increasing numbers of obese patients with colorectal cancer. We aimed to review the existing guidelines and make recommendations specific to this group of patients. Upon comparing the current NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology (NCCN Guidelines ®), the guidelines from the European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO) and the guidelines of the Japanese Society for Cancer of the Colon and Rectum (JSCCR), we observed that these did not take into consideration the needs of obese patients. We proceeded to make specific recommendations with regards to the diagnostic work-up, surgical pathways, minimally invasive technique, perioperative treatment, post-operative surveillance, and management of metastatic disease in this group of patients. Our review highlights the need for modification of the existing guidelines to account for the needs of this patient cohort. A multidisciplinary approach, including principles used by bariatric surgeons, should be the way forward to reach consensus in the management of this group of patients.
Photocatalytic Degradation of Methylene Blue and Ortho-Toluidine Blue: Activity of Lanthanum Composites LaxMOy (M: Fe, Co, Ni)
Authors: Mocwana Mmabatho L. , Mokoena Puseletso P. , Mbule Pontsho S. , Beas Isaac N. , Kabongo Guy L. , Ogugua Simon N. , Tshabalala Themba E.
Published: October 2022

Lanthanum (La) nanocomposites LaFeO3, LaNiO3, and LaCoO3 were synthesized using a sol-gel method, and different La to-metal (Fe, Ni, or Co) ratios were attained using various concentrations of salts. The resulting composites were calcined at 540 °C and characterized by XRD, SEM-EDX, FT-IR spectroscopy, XPS, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and PL spectroscopy. The activity of the lanthanum composites (LaFeO3, LaNiO3, and LaCoO3) was studied using the photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue (MB) and ortho-toluidine blue (o-TB) under visible light with a wavelength below 420 nm. The change in the concentration of dyes was monitored by using the UV-Vis spectroscopy technique. All composites appeared to have some degree of photocatalytic activity, with composites possessing an orthorhombic crystal structure having higher photocatalytic activity. The LaCoO3 composite is more efficient compared with LaFeO3 and LaNiO3 for both dyes. High degradation percentages were observed for the La composites with a 1:1 metal ratio.
H3K27me3 in Diffuse Midline Glioma and Epithelial Ovarian Cancer: Opposing Epigenetic Changes Leading to the Same Poor Outcomes
Authors: Day Charles , Hinchcliffe Edward , Robinson James
Published: October 2022

Histone post-translational modifications modulate gene expression through epigenetic gene regulation. The core histone H3 family members, H3.1, H3.2, and H3.3, play a central role in epigenetics. H3 histones can acquire many post-translational modifications, including the trimethylation of H3K27 (H3K27me3), which represses transcription. Triple methylation of H3K27 is performed by the histone methyltransferase Enhancer of Zeste Homologue 2 (EZH2), a component of the Polycomb Repressive Complex 2. Both global increases and decreases in H3K27me3 have been implicated in a wide range of cancer types. Here, we explore how opposing changes in H3K27me3 contribute to cancer by highlighting its role in two vastly different cancer types; (1) a form of glioma known as diffuse midline glioma H3K27-altered and (2) epithelial ovarian cancer. These two cancers vary widely in the age of onset, sex, associated mutations, and cell and organ type. However, both diffuse midline glioma and ovarian cancer have dysregulation of H3K27 methylation, triggering changes to the cancer cell transcriptome. In diffuse midline glioma, the loss of H3K27 methylation is a primary driving factor in tumorigenesis that promotes glial cell stemness and silences tumor suppressor genes. Conversely, hypermethylation of H3K27 occurs in late-stage epithelial ovarian cancer, which promotes tumor vascularization and tumor cell migration. By using each cancer type as a case study, this review emphasizes the importance of H3K27me3 in cancer while demonstrating that the mechanisms of histone H3 modification and subsequent gene expression changes are not a one-size-fits-all across cancer types.
Inflammatory Glycoprotein YKL-40 Is Elevated after Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery and Correlates with Leukocyte Chemotaxis and Myocardial Injury, a Pilot Study
Authors: Laurikka Antti , Vuolteenaho Katriina , Toikkanen Vesa , Rinne Timo , Leppänen Tiina , Hämäläinen Mari , Tarkka Matti , Laurikka Jari , Moilanen Eeva
Published: October 2022

The aim of the present study was to investigate the levels of YKL-40 during and after coronary artery bypass grafting surgery (CABG) and to establish possible connections between YKL-40 and markers of oxidative stress, inflammation, and myocardial injury. Patients undergoing elective CABG utilizing cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) were recruited into the study. Blood samples were collected at the onset of anesthesia, during surgery and post-operatively. Levels of YKL-40, 8-isoprostane, interleukin-8 (IL-8), monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1) and troponin T (TnT) were measured by immunoassay. YKL-40 levels increased significantly 24 h after CPB. Positive correlation was seen between post-operative TnT and YKL-40 levels (r = 0.457, p = 0.016) and, interestingly, baseline YKL-40 predicted post-operative TnT increase (r = 0.374, p = 0.050). There was also a clear association between YKL-40 and the chemotactic factors MCP-1 (r = 0.440, p = 0.028) and IL-8 (r = 0.484, p = 0.011) linking YKL-40 to cardiac inflammation and fibrosis following CABG. The present results show, for the first time, that YKL-40 is associated with myocardial injury and leukocyte-activating factors following coronary artery bypass surgery. YKL-40 may be a factor and/or biomarker of myocardial inflammation and injury and subsequent fibrosis following heart surgery.
Space and Time Coherent Mapping for Subcellular Resolution of Imaging Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Aoki Jun , Isokawa Masako , Toyoda Michisato
Published: October 2022

Space and time coherent mapping (STCM) is a technology developed in our laboratory for improved matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI) time of flight (TOF) imaging mass spectrometry (IMS). STCM excels in high spatial resolutions, which probe-based scanning methods cannot attain in conventional MALDI IMS. By replacing a scanning probe with a large field laser beam, focusing ion optics, and position-sensitive detectors, STCM tracks the entire flight trajectories of individual ions throughout the ionization process and visualizes the ionization site on the sample surface with a subcellular scale of precision and a substantially short acquisition time. Results obtained in thinly sectioned leech segmental ganglia and epididymis demonstrate that STCM IMS is highly suited for (1) imaging bioactive lipid messengers such as endocannabinoids and the mediators of neuronal activities in situ with spatial resolution sufficient to detail subcellular localization, (2) integrating resultant images in mass spectrometry to optically defined cell anatomy, and (3) assembling a stack of ion maps derived from mass spectra for cluster analysis. We propose that STCM IMS is the choice over a probe-based scanning mass spectrometer for high-resolution single-cell molecular imaging.
Drug Resistance in Cancers: A Free Pass for Bullying
Authors: Li Jing , Li Xiao , Guo Qie
Published: October 2022

The cancer burden continues to grow globally, and drug resistance remains a substantial challenge in cancer therapy. It is well established that cancerous cells with clonal dysplasia generate the same carcinogenic lesions. Tumor cells pass on genetic templates to subsequent generations in evolutionary terms and exhibit drug resistance simply by accumulating genetic alterations. However, recent evidence has implied that tumor cells accumulate genetic alterations by progressively adapting. As a result, intratumor heterogeneity (ITH) is generated due to genetically distinct subclonal populations of cells coexisting. The genetic adaptive mechanisms of action of ITH include activating “cellular plasticity”, through which tumor cells create a tumor-supportive microenvironment in which they can proliferate and cause increased damage. These highly plastic cells are located in the tumor microenvironment (TME) and undergo extreme changes to resist therapeutic drugs. Accordingly, the underlying mechanisms involved in drug resistance have been re-evaluated. Herein, we will reveal new themes emerging from initial studies of drug resistance and outline the findings regarding drug resistance from the perspective of the TME; the themes include exosomes, metabolic reprogramming, protein glycosylation and autophagy, and the relates studies aim to provide new targets and strategies for reversing drug resistance in cancers.
The Biological Relevance of Papaverine in Cancer Cells
Authors: Gomes Daniella Anthea , Joubert Anna Margaretha , Visagie Michelle Helen
Published: October 2022

Papaverine (PPV), a benzylisoquinoline alkaloid, extracted from the Papaverine somniferum plant, is currently in clinical use as a vasodilator. Research has shown that PPV inhibits phosphodiesterase 10A (PDE10A,) resulting in the accumulation of cyclic adenosine 3′, 5′-monophosphate (cAMP) that affects multiple downstream pathways, including phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt), a mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). The accumulation of cAMP can further affect mitochondrial metabolism through the activation of protein kinase A (PKA), which activates the mitochondrial complex I. Literature has shown that PPV exerts anti-proliferative affects in several tumorigenic cell lines including adenocarcinoma alveolar cancer (A549) and human hepatoma (HepG-2) cell lines. Cell cycle investigations have shown varying results with the effects dependent on concentration and cell type with data suggesting an increase in cells occupying the sub-G1 phase, which is indicative of cell death. These results suggest that PPV may be a beneficial compound to explore for the use in anticancer studies. More insight into the effects of the compound on cellular and molecular mechanisms is needed. Understanding the effects PPV may exert on tumorigenic cells may better researchers’ understanding of phytomedicines and the effects of PPV and PPV-derived compounds in cancer.
SOD2 Gene Variants (rs4880 and rs5746136) and Their Association with Breast Cancer Risk
Authors: Gallegos-Arreola Martha P. , Ramírez-Patiño Ramiro , Sánchez-López Josefina Y. , Zúñiga-González Guillermo M. , Figuera Luis E. , Delgado-Saucedo Jorge I. , Gómez-Meda Belinda C. , Rosales-Reynoso Mónica A. , Puebla-Pérez Ana M. , Lemus-Varela María L. , Garibaldi-Ríos Asbiel F. , Marín-Domínguez Nayely A. , Pacheco-Verduzco Diana P. , Mohamed-Flores Emaan A.
Published: October 2022

The superoxide dismutase (SOD) is the principal antioxidant defense system in the body that is activated by a reactive oxygen species. Some variants of the SOD2 gene have been associated with cancer. The rs4880 variant was determined by PCR real-time and the rs5746136 variant by PCR-RFLP in healthy subjects and in breast cancer (BC) patients. The rs4880 and rs5746136 variants were associated with BC susceptibility when BC patients and the control group were compared for the CT, TT, CTCC, and the T alleles (p < 0.05). The CT genotype of the rs4880 variant showed significant statistical differences in patients and controls aged ≤ 45 years old, and with hormonal consumption (p < 0.05). The rs4880 variant was associated with BC patients with CTTT genotype and obesity, the presence of DM2-SAH, and a non-chemotherapy response (p < 0.05). Additionally, the rs5746136 variant was associated with susceptibility to BC with Ki-67 (≥20%), luminal A type BC, and a chemotherapy partial response (p < 0.05) in BC patients who carry TT, TC, and CTTT genotypes, respectively. The haplotype T/T (OR 1.98; 95% CI 1.20–3.26, p = 0.005) was observed to be a risk factor for BC. The rs4880 and rs5746136 variants in the SOD2 gene were associated with BC susceptibility.
Hierarchical Porous Carbon Fibers Synthesized by Solution-Plasma-Generated Soot Deposition and Their CO2 Adsorption Capacity
Authors: Romero Valenzuela Andres Eduardo , Chokradjaroen Chayanaphat , Thiangtham Satita , Saito Nagahiro
Published: October 2022

Global warming caused by CO2 emissions is a major environmental problem. Thus, the development of materials with innovative architectures that approach the CO2 problem is a necessity. In this study, hierarchical porous carbon fibers (HCFs) were synthesized by a chemical deposition process that operates at 400 °C and uses solution-plasma-generated soot (PGS) as a carbon precursor. Subsequently, the CO2 adsorption capacity of the synthesized material was evaluated. The HCFs showed enhanced surface areas and networks of micropores and mesopores. Moreover, the HCFs were post treated by metal etching and KOH activation. The post treated HCFs achieved a CO2 uptake of 0.8 mmol g−1 at 273 K, which was superior to the simultaneously produced solution plasma carbon (SPC), which has a CO2 uptake of 0.2 mmol g−1.
Performance Evaluation According to Polymer Encapsulation Characteristics of Eco-Friendly Plastic Gamma-Ray Shield
Authors: Kim Seon-Chil
Published: October 2022

To eliminate the exposure of medical staff to radiopharmaceuticals during nuclear medicine tests, a new process technology was proposed for manufacturing gamma-ray shields used in nuclear medicine. In the case of manufacturing the existing gamma-ray shield, a method of increasing the content of the shielding material in the mixed material is used to improve the shielding performance. However, it is impossible to improve the shielding performance by simply increasing the content of the shielding material. Therefore, this study aims to present the optimal conditions for improving the miscibility between composite materials. Following the additional mixing of barium sulfate and bismuth oxide with tungsten, a syringe shield was developed via a plastic injection mold process. When tungsten was solely used or in combination with other shielding materials, polymer encapsulation occurred, and miscibility between composite materials was observed. Based on these results, the optimal conditions in terms of eco-friendly materials, economic feasibility, and improvement in shielding performance were determined. The findings of this study reveal that when tungsten and the polymers are combined, the polymer encapsulation is optimal, the particles are uniformly dispersed, and the shielding performance is significantly improved. With a 99mTc source, a 6.9% improvement in the shielding performance is achieved compared with the use of lead.
Influence of Carbon Content on Tensile Properties of Pure High Manganese Austenitic Steel
Authors: Chen Chen , Ma Hua , Wang Fei , Yang Zhinan , Zhang Fucheng , Yan Zehui
Published: October 2022

The tensile properties of high manganese austenitic steels with a carbon content ranging from 0.79 to 1.28 wt.% were tested. X-ray diffraction, electron backscattering diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and optical microscopy were used to observe the microstructures after tensile deformation. Results showed that the strength and plasticity of these high manganese austenitic steels increased with increasing carbon content. The tensile strength and elongation of the 130Mn11 steel reached 941 MPa and 38.2%, respectively. The 0.79% carbon-containing steel (80Mn11) formed the most deformation twins at the same strain because of the low stacking fault energy, which resulted in a high strain hardening rate. However, this high strain hardening rate was unsustainable, and the tensile properties of the 80Mn11 steel were the worst, with its tensile strength nearly 200 MPa lower than that of the 130Mn11 steel. In the case of the 1.28% carbon-containing steel (130Mn11), the relatively low density of deformation twins, the large number of dislocations, and intensified DSA effect made the steel display a moderate strain hardening rate, which facilitated the sustainability of deformation, and an excellent combination of strength and plasticity were obtained.
Oxidation and Mechanical Behavior of Cr-Coated Laser Beam Welds Made from E110 Zirconium Alloy
Authors: Kashkarov E. B. , Gusev K. S. , Ashikhmin D. A. , Abdulmenova A. V. , Sidelev D. V.
Published: October 2022

This article describes the oxidation resistance of laser beam welds made from E110 zirconium alloy with a chromium coating obtained using multi-cathode magnetron sputtering. Oxidation tests of the welded Zr alloy without and with Cr coating were performed in an air atmosphere at 1100 °C for 2–90 min. Then, analysis of their cross-section microstructure in different regions (weld, heat-affected, and bulk zones) was done using optical microscopy. Hardness measurements and three-point bending tests demonstrated the hardening of the Cr-coated welded Zr alloy after the oxidation that is discussed in the article. Brittle fracture behavior was observed for uncoated Zr weld even after a short period of high-temperature oxidation.
Effects of Sintering Temperature on MoOx Target and Film
Authors: Zhou Xianjie , Xiong Hanqing , Xu Jiwen
Published: October 2022

The sintering process of the MoOx target has an impact on the quality of the sputtered film. In this study, powders of MoO3 (78 wt%) and MoO2 (22 wt%) were milled and hot-pressed to prepare the MoOx target. The effects of the sintering temperature of the MoOx targets on the properties of the sputtered MoOx films were investigated by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, four-probe needle, and spectrophotometer tests. The research results revealed that the MoOx target at the sintered temperature of 1000 °C had a clear crystal structure and dense grains, exhibiting good sinterability, crystallization behavior, and film-forming property. The sputtered film deposited by the MoOx target could obtain high quality with a smooth interface and uniform thickness. The film had smaller resistivity, higher reflectivity, and appropriate transmissivity compared to the ones fabricated by other targets that were sintered at 800 °C, 900 °C, and 1100 °C.
Sol-Gel Materials for Electrochemical Applications: Recent Advances
Authors: Myasoedova Tatiana N. , Kalusulingam Rajathsing , Mikhailova Tatiana S.
Published: October 2022

This review article emphases on the modern approaches to the types of sol-gel materials that are beneficial for electrochemistry, monitored by a report of recent advances in the numerous fields of sol-gel electrochemistry. Modified electrodes for sensors and supercapacitors as well as anti-corrosion are described. Sol-gel synthesis expands the capabilities of technologists to obtain highly porous, homogeneous, and hybrid thin-film materials for supercapacitor electrode application. The widespread materials are transition metal oxides, but due to their low conductivity, they greatly impede the rate capability of electrochemical supercapacitors. The way to optimize their properties is the production of complex oxides or different composites. Among the new materials, a special place is occupied by perovskites and materials with an olivine-type structure, which can be easily obtained by the sol-gel method. The sol-gel coating process has demonstrated excellent chemical stability to advance the corrosion resistance of the various metal alloy substrates. Furthermore, the sol-gel process is a user-friendly technique for applying a hybrid sol-gel coating to provide corrosion resistance. The hybrid sol-gel coating technique is the most attractive, easy to prepare at a lower temperature, and has shown the potential to swap Cr-based coatings. The hybrid sol-gel coating has exhibited promising properties of adherent and uses chemically inert to enhance the corrosion resistance of the metal and alloys. Hence, this review article emphases on the recent advances and approaches in the sol-gel coating processes that influence the belongings of its hybrid sol-gel coating for protecting metal substrates and their alloys from corrosion. In addition, the author discusses the current problem and challenges of hybrid anti-corrosion sol-gel coatings. Metal oxides and composites based on them are actively used to create electrochemical sensors. They synthesized, including the anhydrous and citrate sol-gel methods. Such materials are widely used as glucose biosensors and harmful gas sensors.
Crystalline Zeolite Layers on the Surface of Titanium Alloys in Biomedical Applications: Current Knowledge and Possible Directions of Development
Authors: Jakubowski Marcel , Voelkel Adam , Sandomierski Mariusz
Published: October 2022

In this review, the main focus was on the use of zeolites as layers to modify the surface of titanium implants. The article discusses the basic methods for modifying the functional properties of zeolites (e.g., ion exchange) as well as biomedical applications of zeolites (e.g., drug delivery systems and biosensors). The article reviews the surface modifications of titanium alloys prepared so far with the use of various types of zeolites and selected examples are presented. This review shows the significant impact of titanium surface modification with zeolites, as well as their post-synthetic modification on implant properties, for instance, better biocompatibility, faster osseointegration, better cell adhesion, and corrosion resistance properties. The results of the research presented so far in this review show that the modification of titanium with zeolite layers is a very prospective subject, but underdeveloped, as evidenced by a small number of studies on this subject. We have shown that the prepared layers can be continuously improved and used, e.g., as local delivery systems for various active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). We hope that the prepared review will help research groups around the world in the preparation of implants modified with zeolites with even better properties and utility applications.
Improved Electrical Performance of InAlN/GaN High Electron Mobility Transistors with Post Bis(trifluoromethane) Sulfonamide Treatment
Authors: Chen Siheng , Cui Peng , Xu Mingsheng , Lin Zhaojun , Xu Xiangang , Zeng Yuping , Han Jisheng
Published: October 2022

An enhancement of the electrical performance of the InAlN/GaN high electron mobility transistors (HEMTs) is demonstrated by the incorporation of post bis(trifluoromethane) sulfonamide (TFSI) treatment. The surface treatment of TFSI solution results in the increase of 2DEG electron mobility from 1180 to 1500 cm2/Vs and thus a reduction of on-state resistance and an increase in transconductance. The results indicate that the positive charge of H+ will decrease the polarization charges of the InAlN barrier under the access region due to the converse piezoelectric effect, leading to the reduced polarization Coulomb field (PCF) scattering in InAlN/GaN HEMT. This offers a possible way to improve the electron mobility and device performance of InAlN/GaN HEMTs for further application.
Hydrogen Bonding in Crystals of Pyrrol-2-yl Chloromethyl Ketone Derivatives and Methyl Pyrrole-2-Carboxylate
Authors: Domagała Małgorzata , Dubis Alina T. , Wojtulewski Sławomir , Zabel Manfred , Pfitzner Arno
Published: October 2022

The crystal and molecular structure of three derivatives of carbonyl 2-substituted pyrroles was determined by the single crystal X-ray diffraction. There are 2,2-dichloro-1-(1-methyl-1H-pyrrol-2-yl)ethan-1-one (I), 2-chloro-1-(1H-pyrrol-2-yl)ethan-1-one (II) and methyl 1H-pyrrole-2-carboxylate (III). All compounds crystallize with one molecule in the asymmetric unit in P212121 for I and II, and P21/c group for III. Despite the similar structures of the investigated compounds, the hydrogen bonds formed in their crystal structures adopt different H-bond motifs. In structure I, the dimers R12(5) and R21(7) form a chain along the b-axis, while in structures II and III, chain C(5) structural motifs are formed. The single point calculations at a ωB97XD/6-311++G(d,p) level of theory indicate that systems with N-H⋯O bonds have greater interaction energies (are more stable) compared with systems featuring C-H⋯O/Cl bonds. A descriptive Hirshfeld analysis showed that the greatest differences are visible for the H⋯H interactions. These H⋯H interactions predominate in structure III, accounting for 45% of the intermolecular interactions, while in structures I and II, they account for only 25%. Although compounds I-II contain Cl-atoms, the percentage of Cl⋯Cl interactions is rather low. In structure with two Cl-atoms (I), the contribution of the Cl⋯Cl contacts is 8.7% and for II, the contribution accounts for only 0.4% of the interactions.
Data of National Dishes in the Developed and Developing Countries in the World, Their Similarity and Trade Flows
Authors: Wunderlich Anne C. , Kohler Andreas
Published: October 2022

This paper presents a database that includes information on national recipes and their ingredients for 171 countries, measures for food taste similarities between all 171 countries as well as bilateral migration and agro-food trade data for 5 years. The database can be used for analyzing e.g., the relation between food preferences and international trade or food preferences and health outcomes (e.g., obesity) across countries.
An Improved Detection Algorithm for Ischemic Stroke NCCT Based on YOLOv5
Authors: Zhang Lifeng , Cui Hongyan , Hu Anming , Li Jiadong , Tang Yidi , Welsch Roy Elmer
Published: October 2022

Cerebral stroke (CS) is a heterogeneous syndrome caused by multiple disease mechanisms. Ischemic stroke (IS) is a subtype of CS that causes a disruption of cerebral blood flow with subsequent tissue damage. Noncontrast computer tomography (NCCT) is one of the most important IS detection methods. It is difficult to select the features of IS CT within computational image analysis. In this paper, we propose AC-YOLOv5, which is an improved detection algorithm for IS. The algorithm amplifies the features of IS via an NCCT image based on adaptive local region contrast enhancement, which then detects the region of interest via YOLOv5, which is one of the best detection algorithms at present. The proposed algorithm was tested on two datasets, and seven control group experiments were added, including popular detection algorithms at present and other detection algorithms based on image enhancement. The experimental results show that the proposed algorithm has a high accuracy (94.1% and 91.7%) and recall (85.3% and 88.6%) rate; the recall result is especially notable. This proves the excellent performance of the accuracy, robustness, and generalizability of the algorithm.