bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring Cell Migration Mechanisms in Cancer: From Wound Healing Assays to Cellular Automata Models
Authors: Migliaccio Giorgia , Ferraro Rosalia , Wang Zhihui , Cristini Vittorio , Dogra Prashant , Caserta Sergio
Published: November 2023

Purpose: Cell migration is a critical driver of metastatic tumor spread, contributing significantly to cancer-related mortality. Yet, our understanding of the underlying mechanisms remains incomplete. Methods: In this study, a wound healing assay was employed to investigate cancer cell migratory behavior, with the aim of utilizing migration as a biomarker for invasiveness. To gain a comprehensive understanding of this complex system, we developed a computational model based on cellular automata (CA) and rigorously calibrated and validated it using in vitro data, including both tumoral and non-tumoral cell lines. Harnessing this CA-based framework, extensive numerical experiments were conducted and supported by local and global sensitivity analyses in order to identify the key biological parameters governing this process. Results: Our analyses led to the formulation of a power law equation derived from just a few input parameters that accurately describes the governing mechanism of wound healing. This groundbreaking research provides a powerful tool for the pharmaceutical industry. In fact, this approach proves invaluable for the discovery of novel compounds aimed at disrupting cell migration, assessing the efficacy of prospective drugs designed to impede cancer invasion, and evaluating the immune system’s responses.
Cancer-Associated Abdominal Vein Thrombosis
Authors: Muscat-Baron Lorna , Borg Amber Leigh , Attard Laura Maria , Gatt Alex , Riva Nicoletta
Published: November 2023

Cancer is associated with an increased risk of developing venous thromboembolism, due to its direct influence on the three pillars of Virchow’s triad (e.g., compression on the blood vessels by the tumour, blood vessels invasion, and cytokine release), together with the effect of exogenous factors (such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery). In cancer patients, the risk of thrombosis at unusual sites, such as splanchnic, ovarian and renal vein thrombosis, is also increased. Abdominal vein thromboses are frequently incidental findings on abdominal imaging performed as part of the diagnostic/staging workup or the follow-up care of malignancies. There is little evidence on the management of unusual site venous thromboembolism in cancer patients since there are only a few specific recommendations; thus, the management follows the general principles of the treatment of cancer-associated deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. This narrative review summarises the latest evidence on cancer-associated abdominal vein thrombosis, i.e., thrombosis of the splanchnic, ovarian and renal veins.
The Prevalence and Characteristics of Intrafamilial Child and Adolescent Homicides in Greece over 11 Years (2010–2020)
Authors: Tsellou Maria , Bacopoulou Flora , Ferentinos Panagiotis , Baccino Eric , Martrille Laurent , Papadodima Stavroula
Published: November 2023

Intrafamilial child/adolescent homicide is the murder of a child/adolescent by one or more family members. This study delves into the medical and sociological consequences of child homicide, shedding light on the broader impact beyond individual families, which extends into the local community. Two Internet search engines and the search engines of major national news websites were surveyed to identify the number of intrafamilial child/adolescent homicide cases that occurred in Greece from January 2010 to December 2020. Over the study period, 34 victims of intrafamilial child/adolescent homicides were identified. The above deaths reflect an intrafamilial child/adolescent homicide rate of 0.15 homicides per year per 100,000 inhabitants. Most of the perpetrators (51.4%) were male, and the victims were equally divided into males and females. The ages of the perpetrators ranged from 13 to 61 years, and the ages of the victims ranged between 0 and 17 years. Most perpetrators (54.5%) had a previous psychiatric history and in many cases, they committed (33.3%) or attempted (15.2%) suicide after the homicide. The most common method of homicide was strangulation (usually combined with suffocation) (25%), followed by abandonment (15.6%). The most commonly reported motives were spousal revenge (26.5%) and psychotic disorders (26.5%). Raising awareness for intrafamilial child and adolescent homicide is of the utmost importance for the prevention of this dreadful phenomenon.
Biological Roles and Pathogenic Mechanisms of LncRNA MIR4435-2HG in Cancer: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Chen Zhou , Guan Defeng , Zhu Qiangping , Wang Zhengfeng , Han Fangfang , Zhou Wence
Published: November 2023

The long non-coding RNA MIR4435-2HG has been confirmed to play a crucial regulatory role in various types of tumors. As a novel type of non-coding RNA, MIR4435-2HG plays a key role in regulating the expression of tumor-related genes, interfering with cellular signaling pathways, and affecting tumor immune evasion. Its unique structure allows it to regulate the expression of various tumor-related genes through different pathways, participating in the regulation of tumor signaling pathways, such as regulating the expression of oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes, influencing the biological behaviors of proliferation, metastasis, and apoptosis in tumors. Numerous studies have found a high expression of MIR4435-2HG in various tumor tissues, closely related to the clinical pathological characteristics of tumors, such as staging, lymph node metastasis and prognosis. Some studies have discovered that MIR4435-2HG can regulate the sensitivity of tumor cells to chemotherapy drugs, affecting tumor cell drug resistance. This provides new insights into overcoming tumor drug resistance by regulating MIR4435-2HG. Therefore, studying its molecular mechanisms, expression regulation, and its relationship with the clinical features of tumors is of great significance for revealing the mechanisms of tumor occurrence and developing new therapeutic targets.
The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic in The Netherlands on Primary Healthcare Use and Clinical Outcomes in Persons with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: van den Berg Jesse M. , Blom Marieke T. , Swart Karin M. A. , Overbeek Jetty A. , Remmelzwaal S. , Elders Petra J. M. , Herings Ron M. C.
Published: November 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on healthcare systems worldwide, including the postponing or canceling of appointments and procedures for type 2 diabetes (T2D) care by general practitioners (GPs) in the Netherlands. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on primary healthcare use and clinical measurements for people with T2D. Additionally, we aimed to determine if changes were observed among specific risk groups: (1) persons 70 years or older, or below 70 years, (2) patients who were meeting their HbA1c targets and those who were not, and (3) patients with high-risk and non-high-risk T2D. This retrospective cohort study among persons with T2D was conducted using data from the DIAbetes MANagement and Treatment (DIAMANT) data infrastructure, deriving data from electronic medical records of Dutch GPs. The study assessed GP visit counts, and counts and values of clinical measurements, including hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), body mass index (BMI), low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, and systolic blood pressure (SBP). Adjusted negative binomial (NB) regression and generalized estimating equations (GEE) models were used to estimate GP visit counts and population averages of clinical measurements, respectively, comparing 2019 (pre-pandemic) with 2020 (during the pandemic). Changes in specific groups were examined by stratifying outcomes for the aforementioned subgroups. The cohort consisted of 182,048 patients with T2D (47% female, mean age 69 ± 13 years) on 1 March 2019, of which 168,097 persons (92%) still contributed follow-up data in 2020. We observed an increase in total GP visits in 2020, with an adjusted rate ratio (RR) of 1.09 (95% CI 1.08–1.09). The frequency increased for office visits (RR 1.06; 1.06–1.07) and phone calls (RR 1.33; 1.31–1.35) but remained stable for home visits (RR 1.02; 0.99–1.04). On both population and individual levels, HbA1c values increased in 2020 by 1.65 (1.59–1.70) mmol/mol compared to 2019. Observed changes in 2020 for BMI, LDL, and SBP values were also statistically significant but small. Subgroup stratifications showed higher scores of all clinical measurements in younger persons (<70 years), those who met their HbA1c target, and non-high-risk T2D patients than their respective high-risk subgroups. During the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic in the Netherlands, changes in primary healthcare use were observed among persons with T2D, with an increase in GP office visits and phone calls and a decreased number of clinical measurements and GP home visits. HbA1c levels increased among patients with T2D in 2020. Further research is necessary to determine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on long-term clinical outcomes and (long-term) T2D complications.
A Novel Prognostic Model Using Chaotic CNN with Hybridized Spoofing for Enhancing Diagnostic Accuracy in Epileptic Seizure Prediction
Authors: Palanisamy Preethi , Urooj Shabana , Arunachalam Rajesh , Lay-Ekuakille Aime
Published: November 2023

Epileptic seizure detection has undergone progressive advancements since its conception in the 1970s. From proof-of-concept experiments in the latter part of that decade, it has now become a vibrant area of clinical and laboratory research. In an effort to bring this technology closer to practical application in human patients, this study introduces a customized approach to selecting electroencephalogram (EEG) features and electrode positions for seizure prediction. The focus is on identifying precursors that occur within 10 min of the onset of abnormal electrical activity during a seizure. However, there are security concerns related to safeguarding patient EEG recordings against unauthorized access and network-based attacks. Therefore, there is an urgent need for an efficient prediction and classification method for encrypted EEG data. This paper presents an effective system for analyzing and recognizing encrypted EEG information using Arnold transform algorithms, chaotic mapping, and convolutional neural networks (CNNs). In this system, the EEG time series from each channel is converted into a 2D spectrogram image, which is then encrypted using chaotic algorithms. The encrypted data is subsequently processed by CNNs coupled with transfer learning (TL) frameworks. To optimize the fusion parameters of the ensemble learning classifiers, a hybridized spoofing optimization method is developed by combining the characteristics of corvid and gregarious-seeking agents. The evaluation of the model’s effectiveness yielded the following results: 98.9 ± 0.3% accuracy, 98.2 ± 0.7% sensitivity, 98.6 ± 0.6% specificity, 98.6 ± 0.6% precision, and an F1 measure of 98.9 ± 0.6%. When compared with other state-of-the-art techniques applied to the same dataset, this novel strategy demonstrated one of the most effective seizure detection systems, as evidenced by these results.
Implementation of Nonlinear Controller to Improve DC Microgrid Stability: A Comparative Analysis of Sliding Mode Control Variants
Authors: Zehra Syeda Shafia , Dolara Alberto , Amjed Muhammad Ahsan , Mussetta Marco
Published: November 2023

Electricity generation from sustainable renewable energy sources is constantly accelerating due to a rapid increase in demand from consumers. This requires an effective energy management and control system to fulfil the power demand without compromising the system’s performance. For this application, a nonlinear barrier sliding mode controller (BSMC) for a microgrid formed with PV, a fuel cell and an energy storage system comprising a battery and supercapacitor working in grid-connected mode is implemented. The advantages of the BSMC are twofold: The sliding surface oscillates in the close vicinity of zero by adapting an optimal gain value to ensure the smooth tracking of power to its references without overestimating the gains. Secondly, it exhibits a noticeable robustness to variations and disturbance, which is the bottleneck of the problem in a grid-connected mode. The stability of the presented controllers was analyzed with the Lyapunov stability criterion. Moreover, a comparison of the BSMC with sliding mode and supertwisting sliding mode controllers was carried out in MATLAB/Simulink (2020b) with real PV experimental data. The results and the numerical analysis verify the effectiveness of the BSMC in regulating the DC bus voltage in the presence of an external disturbance under varying conventional load and environmental conditions.
Adaptive Scalable Video Streaming (ASViS): An Advanced ABR Transmission Protocol for Optimal Video Quality
Authors: Peña-Ancavil Eliecer , Estevez Claudio , Sanhueza Andrés , Orchard Marcos
Published: November 2023

Multimedia video streaming, identified as the dominant internet data consumption service, brings forth challenges in consistently delivering optimal video quality. Dynamic Adaptive Streaming over HTTP (DASH), while prevalent, often encounters buffering problems, causing video pauses due to empty video buffers. This study introduces the Adaptive Scalable Video Streaming (ASViS) protocol as a solution. ASViS incorporates scalable video coding, a flow-controlled User Datagram Protocol (UDP), and deadline-based criteria. A model is developed to predict the behavior of ASViS across varying network conditions. Additionally, the effects of diverse parameters on ASViS performance are evaluated. ASViS adjusts data flow similarly to the Transmission Control Protocol (TCP), based on bandwidth availability. Data are designed to be discarded by ASViS according to video frame deadlines, preventing outdated information transmission. Compliance with RFC 8085 ensures the internet is not overwhelmed. With its scalability feature, ASViS achieves the highest possible image quality per frame, aligning with Scalable Video Coding (SVC) and the available data layers. The introduction of ASViS offers a promising approach to address the challenges faced by DASH, potentially providing more consistent and higher-quality video streaming.
Battery Energy Storage System Damper Design for a Microgrid with Wind Generators Participating in Frequency Regulation
Authors: Chiu Bing-Kuei , Lee Kuei-Yen , Hsu Yuan-Yih
Published: November 2023

Ancillary frequency control schemes (e.g., droop control) are used in wind farms to improve frequency regulation in grids with substantial renewable energy penetration; however, droop controllers can have negative impacts on the damping of wind turbine torsional mode, thereby reducing the lifespan of the turbine gearbox. This paper presents a battery energy storage system (BESS) damper to improve the damping of torsional vibrations when using doubly fed induction generators (DFIGs) for frequency regulation in a microgrid. We formulated a linearized model comprising diesel generators, a wind turbine with five-mass drivetrain, and BESS. We also designed a feedforward compensator to deal with phase lag between the BESS damper signal and DFIG torque. The proposed BESS damper was shown to improve the torsional mode damping by moving the eigenvalues for torsional mode leftward to desirable locations on the complex plane. Dynamic simulations performed using MATLAB/SIMULINK demonstrated the efficacy of the proposed BESS torsional mode damping scheme in terms of torsional mode 1 damping performance and frequency response.
A New Wall Current Transformer for Accurate Beam Intensity Measurements in the Large Hadron Collider
Authors: Krupa Michal , Gasior Marek
Published: November 2023

The Large Hadron Collider (LHC) stores two high-energy counter-rotating particle beams consisting of multiple bunches of a nanosecond length. Precise knowledge of the number of particles within each bunch, known as the bunch intensity, is crucial for physicists and accelerator operators. From the very beginning of the LHC operation, bunch intensity was measured by four commercial fast beam current transformers (FBCTs) coupling to the beam current. However, the FBCTs exhibited several shortcomings which degraded the measurement accuracy below the required level. A new sensor, the wall current transformer (WCT), has been developed to overcome the FBCT limitations. The WCT consists of eight small radio frequency (RF) current transformers distributed radially around the accelerator’s vacuum chamber. Each transformer couples to a fraction of the image current induced on the vacuum chamber by the passing particle beam. A network of RF combiners sums the outputs of all transformers to produce a single signal which, after integration, is proportional to the bunch intensity. In laboratory tests and during beam measurements, the WCT performance was demonstrated to convincingly exceed that of the FBCT. All originally installed FBCTs were replaced by four WCTs, which have been serving as the LHC reference bunch intensity sensors since 2016.
Key Issues and Strategies of Aqueous Zinc-Ion Batteries
Authors: Liu Yi , Wang Huibo , Li Qingyuan , Zhou Lingfeng , Zhao Pengjun , Holze Rudolf
Published: November 2023

With the rapid growth of the world population and the further industrialization of modern society, the demand for energy continues to rise sharply. Hence, the development of alternative, renewable, and clean energy sources is urgently needed to address the impending energy crisis. Rechargeable aqueous zinc-ion batteries are drawing increased attention and are regarded as the most promising candidates for large-scale energy storage systems. However, some challenges exist for both the anode and cathode, severely restricting the practical application of ZIBs. In this review, we focus on the issues related to the anode (such as dendrites growth, hydrogen evolution, and surface passivation). We discuss the causes of these challenges and summarize the strategies (such as surface engineering, electrolyte modification, and 3D structural skeleton and alloying) to overcome them. Finally, we discuss future opportunities and challenges of ZIBs regarding the Zn anode.
Assessment of Gas Production from Complex Hydrate System in Qiongdongnan Basin of South China Sea
Authors: Yu Lu , Lu Hongfeng , Zhang Liang , Xu Chenlu , Kuang Zenggui , Li Xian , Yu Han , Wang Yejia
Published: November 2023

The China Geological Survey (CGS) has carried out a large number of surveys and core drilling over the deepwater area of Qiongdongnan Basin (QDNB) in the South China Sea and discovered the natural gas hydrate system controlled by the gas chimney with a high geothermal gradient. The complex hydrate system consists of a sandy hydrate reservoir distributed around a lateral transition gas-hydrate mixed zone and a free gas zone in the middle. The hydrate and gas are distributed in the same layer, which is thin but potentially valuable for commercial exploitation. In this paper, a geological model of the target hydrate system in QDNB was established based on the results of several rounds of drilling. The method of numerical simulation was utilized to assess the production capacity of the target hydrate system and clarify the evolution of hydrate and gas saturation distribution with different well positions. The simulation results indicate that the producer well built in the center of the highly-saturated hydrate zone has a limited gas production capacity, with a cumulative production of only 7.25 × 106 m3 in 9 years. The well built at the boundary of the hydrate zone can rapidly link up the gas in the transition zone through a large production pressure differential, but it lacks control over the hydrates and its dissociated gas in the transition zone—the cumulative gas production volume from hydrate accounts for only 12.3%. As for the wells built in the transition zone and gas zone, they can directly invoke the free gas production capacity. Free gas is produced as the formation pressure reduces and hydrate is induced to dissociate, making the gas from the hydrate the subsequent production capacity. The cumulative production can exceed 6 × 108 m3 in 9 years. The stable production duration can extend to 2645 days, and the cumulative proportion of gas at the wellhead from hydrate reaches close to 30%. It is necessary to avoid the free water layer. The bottom water coning would improve the water production by 40% and shorten the stable production duration. In summary, the complex hydrate system of this type in the QDNB has the potential for industrialized exploitation. In the future, the well group can be used for the further improvement of the hydrate utilization rate.
Allele-Specific Transcriptional Regulation of Shoot Regeneration in Hybrid Poplar
Authors: Ding Xiawei , Wen Chengjin , Yang Ganggui , Guo Ying , Xue Liangjiao
Published: November 2023

Plant tissue regeneration is a key process for genetic transformation and genome editing. The exploration of regulatory mechanisms in plant regeneration would improve regeneration efficiency. In comparison to some model plants, the genomic heterozygosity is much higher in forest trees, increasing the complexity of transcriptional regulation. Here, we report the allele-specific transcriptional analysis in hybrid poplar 84K (Populus alba × P. tremula var. glandulosa cv. 84K) during the shoot regeneration process. Firstly, 180 regeneration-related genes (REGs) and 2446 REG-homologous genes (REGHs) were identified in hybrid poplar. The expression patterns of REGs exhibited that about half of them were positively correlated between poplar and Arabidopsis at the locus level. The expression levels of REGHs vary among the gene family at different stages during callus and shoot induction. Among the gene clusters with similar expression patterns, the distribution of gene families in poplar and Arabidopsis also exhibits large variations. At the allele level, most of the allele pairs of REGs were positively correlated in expression. The expression patterns of genes in auxin synthesis, transport, and signaling pathways agree with the general patterns. Due to the presence/absence of variations between two subgenomes, two YUC alleles and two IAA alleles are present only in one subgenome, and the expression patterns of the two alleles are greatly different. Our analysis indicates the conservativeness and diversity of transcriptional regulation during shoot regeneration in poplar and Arabidopsis. The complexity in allele expression contributed by heterozygosity suggests the importance of genotyping in the screening of explants for plant regeneration.
The Effects of Organic Mulches on Water Erosion Control for Skid Trails in the Hyrcanian Mixed Forests
Authors: Tibash Azar , Jourgholami Meghdad , Moghaddam Nia Alireza , Latterini Francesco , Venanzi Rachele , Picchio Rodolfo
Published: November 2023

Ground-based skidding can lead to severe soil disturbance by increasing surface water flow and soil erosion. Organic mulches have been shown to be effective in contrasting this type of soil disturbance, although the cost/benefit aspect has yet to be studied. This study, by installing runoff sample plots, aims to elucidate the effects of litter (LM) and sawdust (SM) mulches with three application rates (litter: 7.6 Mg ha−1 LM7.6, 14.6 Mg ha−1 LM14.6, 22.5 Mg ha−1 LM22.5; sawdust: 5.3 Mg ha−1 SM5.3, 11.4 Mg ha−1 SM11.4, 16.7 Mg ha−1 SM16.7) on runoff, soil, and nutrient loss (nitrate and phosphate) in skid trails established in the Hyrcanian forest. The results were also compared to the undisturbed area (UND) and to an untreated skid trail (UNT). The results showed that both litter and sawdust mulch significantly decreased runoff, soil loss, and nitrate and phosphate loss. The values of runoff, runoff coefficient, soil loss, NO3, and PO4 were at the highest level in the untreated skid trails (UNTs). The runoff, runoff coefficient, soil loss, NO3, and PO4 gradually decreased as the application rate of both the litter (LM) and sawdust (SM) mulches increased. According to the results, it is possible to conclude that the mulch application rates of 7.6–14.6 Mg ha−1 and 5.3–11.4 Mg ha−1 for litter and sawdust mulch, respectively, can be applied to maintain soil and water conservation after logging operations on skid trails. The obtained findings can help to shape specific best-management practices for the implementation of sustainable forest operations in the context of the study area, by indicating suitable mulch types and application rates to decrease the negative effects of erosion.
Fluid–Structure Interaction Aortic Valve Surgery Simulation: A Review
Authors: Kuchumov Alex G. , Makashova Anastasiya , Vladimirov Sergey , Borodin Vsevolod , Dokuchaeva Anna
Published: November 2023

The complicated interaction between a fluid flow and a deformable structure is referred to as fluid–structure interaction (FSI). FSI plays a crucial role in the functioning of the aortic valve. Blood exerts stresses on the leaflets as it passes through the opening or shutting valve, causing them to distort and vibrate. The pressure, velocity, and turbulence of the fluid flow have an impact on these deformations and vibrations. Designing artificial valves, diagnosing and predicting valve failure, and improving surgical and interventional treatments all require the understanding and modeling of FSI in aortic valve dynamics. The most popular techniques for simulating and analyzing FSI in aortic valves are computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and finite element analysis (FEA). By studying the relationship between fluid flow and valve deformations, researchers and doctors can gain knowledge about the functioning of valves and possible pathological diseases. Overall, FSI is a complicated phenomenon that has a great impact on how well the aortic valve works. Aortic valve diseases and disorders can be better identified, treated, and managed by comprehending and mimicking this relationship. This article provides a literature review that compiles valve reconstruction methods from 1952 to the present, as well as FSI modeling techniques that can help advance valve reconstruction. The Scopus, PubMed, and ScienceDirect databases were used in the literature search and were structured into several categories. By utilizing FSI modeling, surgeons, researchers, and engineers can predict the behavior of the aortic valve before, during, and after surgery. This predictive capability can contribute to improved surgical planning, as it provides valuable insights into hemodynamic parameters such as blood flow patterns, pressure distributions, and stress analysis. Additionally, FSI modeling can aid in the evaluation of different treatment options and surgical techniques, allowing for the assessment of potential complications and the optimization of surgical outcomes. It can also provide valuable information on the long-term durability and functionality of prosthetic valves. In summary, fluid–structure interaction modeling is an effective tool for predicting the outcomes of aortic valve surgery. It can provide valuable insights into hemodynamic parameters and aid in surgical planning, treatment evaluation, and the optimization of surgical outcomes.
Pore-Type-Dependent Fractal Features of Shales and Implications on Permeability
Authors: Zhang Qian , Dong Yanhui , Tong Shaoqing
Published: November 2023

Pore structure features govern the capacity of gas storage and migration in shales and are highly dependent on the types of pores, i.e., interparticle (InterP) pores, intraparticle (IntraP) pores and organic matter (OM)-hosted pores. However, fractal features in terms of pore types and their respective contributions to permeability have been rarely addressed. On the basis of high-resolution imaging, fractal dimensions (Ds) have been determined from both pore size distributions and digital rock to quantify the heterogeneity in pore morphology and spatial textures. Overall, OM-hosted pores are smaller in size and more abundant in quantity, corresponding to a relatively high D, while IntraP pores are mainly isolated and scarce, translating into lower D values. Additionally, crack-like InterP pores with a moderate level of porosity and the D can play a pivotal role in shale seepage potential. A comparison of the estimated permeability among different pore types highlights that the contribution of interconnected OM pores to the overall permeability remains constrained unless they can link neighboring pore clusters, as commonly observed in organo-clay composites. Furthermore, the pore morphology and fractal features of shale rocks can exhibit noteworthy variations subjected to sedimentology, mineralogy, diagenesis and OM maturation.
Structural and Morphological Features of Anisotropic Chitosan Hydrogels Obtained by Ion-Induced Neutralization in a Triethanolamine Medium
Authors: Shmakov Sergei L. , Babicheva Tatiana S. , Kurochkina Valentina A. , Lugovitskaya Tatiana N. , Shipovskaya Anna B.
Published: November 2023

For the first time, anisotropic hydrogel material with a highly oriented structure was obtained by the chemical reaction of polymer-analogous transformation of chitosan glycolate—chitosan base using triethanolamine (TEA) as a neutralizing reagent. Tangential bands or concentric rings, depending on the reaction conditions, represent the structural anisotropy of the hydrogel. The formation kinetics and the ratio of the positions of these periodic structures are described by the Liesegang regularities. Detailed information about the bands is given (formation time, coordinate, width, height, and formation rate). The supramolecular ordering anisotropy of the resulting material was evaluated both by the number of Liesegang bands (up to 16) and by the average values of the TEA diffusion coefficient ((15–153) × 10−10 and (4–33) × 10−10 m2/s), corresponding to the initial and final phase of the experiment, respectively. The minimum chitosan concentration required to form a spatial gel network and, accordingly, a layered anisotropic structure was estimated as 1.5 g/dL. Morphological features of the structural anisotropic ordering of chitosan Liesegang structures are visualized by scanning electron microscopy. The hemocompatibility of the material obtained was tested, and its high sorption–desorption properties were evaluated using the example of loading–release of cholecalciferol (loading degree ~35–45%, 100% desorption within 25–28 h), which was observed for a hydrophobic substance inside a chitosan-based material for the first time.
Soil Erosion and Landslide Susceptibility Mapping in Western Attica, Greece: A Rock Engineering System Approach
Authors: Tavoularis Nikolaos
Published: November 2023

Two of the eight main soil degradation processes with which soils worldwide are confronted are soil erosion and landslides. Specifically, landslides are a major threat in particular areas across Europe, often leading to serious impacts on population, property, and infrastructure. Regarding the abovementioned processes, the case study of the fatal Mandra flash flood (November 2017) in the Attica Region (Greece), which caused 24 deaths, and much infrastructure and building damage, is presented with the intention of assessing the relationship between soil erosion and landslide incidents. Investigations were executed from 2018 to 2022, and their outcomes were taken into consideration by the Technical Authority of the Attica Region. Soil erosion lines were delineated in a GIS and were validated using a previously generated regional Web-GIS landslide susceptibility map. The study presents soil erosion types from the Mandra fatal flash flood event and correlates them with already existing landslide susceptibility analyses for the Attica Region. The produced susceptibility map is a cartographic product on a regional scale (1:100,000) generated via a semiquantitative heuristic methodology named the Rock Engineering System (RES). The way in which both soil erodibility and landslide susceptibility maps were generated and validated could be the basis for proposing modeling approaches that can respond to new developments in European landslide policies.
The Role of Continuing Professional Training or Development in Maintaining Current Employment: A Systematic Review
Authors: Shiri Rahman , El-Metwally Ashraf , Sallinen Mikael , Pöyry Marjaana , Härmä Mikko , Toppinen-Tanner Salla
Published: November 2023

The impact of continuing job education and professional development on early exit from the labor market is unclear. This systematic review examined how continuing job education or professional development influences the retention of current employment. We searched the PubMed and Embase databases from their start dates to January 2023. Two reviewers screened the full texts of relevant reports and assessed the methodological quality of the included studies using the adapted Effective Public Health Practice Project quality assessment. We qualitatively synthesized the results of the included studies. We screened 7338 publications and included 27 studies consisting of four cohort and 23 cross-sectional studies in the review. The participants of the selected studies were mostly from the health sector (24 studies). There were 19 studies on staying or leaving a current job, six on employee turnover intention, two on job change, one on return to work, one on early retirement, and one on employment. Continuing employee development or training opportunities were associated with increased intention to stay in a current job, decreased intention to leave a current job, decreased employee turnover intention, job change, or early retirement and with faster return to work. One of the two studies that examined the role of age showed that continuing employee development is a more important factor for retaining current employment among younger than older employees. A few studies found that job satisfaction and commitment fully mediated the relationship between employee development and employee intention to leave current employment. This study suggests that participating in professional training/development is related to a lower risk of leaving current employment.
A Computational Fluid Dynamics Analysis of Hydrogen Leakage and Nitrogen Purging of a Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Stack
Authors: Sørensen Rasmus Dockweiler , Berning Torsten
Published: November 2023

A computational study of the nitrogen purging of a solid oxide fuel cell stack enclosed in a hot box is presented. The stack operates on ammonia as a fuel, and in the case of a hydrogen leakage, the entire compartment is immediately purged with nitrogen to ensure that there are no regions with high oxygen concentrations. In addition to this, the speed at which a hydrogen leak can be detected is determined. The results are then compared to a case with a relocated nitrogen inlet. A computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model is developed using the Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes equations for compressible flow in combination with conservation of energy and species equations in OpenFOAM. The results suggest that for the maximum concentration of oxygen to be below 5%, the hot box should be purged for 35 s, corresponding to 1.1 kg of nitrogen, if the hot box was already heated. If the hot box was at T = 300 K, it should be purged for 95 s, corresponding to 3.0 kg of nitrogen. The purge of the heated hot box results in a heat loss of 18 kW on average. A leak could be detected in 3.2 s during open circuit voltage tests. Changing the location of the outlet does not affect the cold purge, but results in a minimum purge period of 48 s during the hot purge, and the leak could be detected in 2 s. This paper demonstrates how CFD methods can be employed in order to address questions related to hydrogen safety.
The Differential Effects of Internal Control Teams on Investment Decision Making Based on Industry Competition
Authors: Choi Hyunjung
Published: November 2023

This study investigates how a company’s internal control team affects their investment decision making, considering the level of industry competition within the South Korean capital market. A model obtained from the literature was employed to test the hypothesis. When industry competition is low, the quantitative adequacy of internal control staff increases the likelihood of investment when the risk of underinvestment is high, and it decreases the likelihood of investment when the risk of overinvestment is high. However, this is not the case when industry competition is fierce. Qualitative adequacy of internal control staff—expertise—has a significant effect on investment decision making when industry competition is high, but has no significant effect when industry competition is low. These results suggest that investors should consider the quantitative and qualitative adequacy of internal control staff along with the level of industry competition when evaluating the investment efficiency of a company.
Effect of a Composite Alginate/Grape Pomace Extract Packaging Material for Improving Meat Storage
Authors: Aresta Antonella Maria , De Vietro Nicoletta , Gubitosa Jennifer , Rizzi Vito , De Pasquale Ilaria , Fini Paola , Cosma Pinalysa , Curri Maria Lucia , Zambonin Carlo
Published: November 2023

The development of food packaging materials that reduce the production of plastic, preserving at the same time the quality of food, is a topic of great interest today for the scientific community. Therefore, this article aims to report the effectiveness of an eco-friendly packaging material based on alginic acid and grape pomace extract from Vitis vinifera L. (winemaking by-products) for storing red meat in a domestic refrigerator. Specifically, biogenic amines are considered “sentinels” of the putrefactive processes, and their presence was thus monitored. For this purpose, an experimental analytical protocol based on the use of solid-phase microextraction coupled with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry was developed during this work for the determination of six biogenic amines (butylamine, cadaverine, isobutylamine, isopentylamine, putrescine, and tyramine). Moreover, by combining the analytical results with those of pH and weight loss measurements, differential scanning calorimetry, and microbiological analysis, it was proved that the studied materials could be proposed as an alternative packaging material for storing foods of animal origin, thus lowering the environmental impact according to sustainability principles.
An Activated Dendritic-Cell-Related Gene Signature Indicative of Disease Prognosis and Chemotherapy and Immunotherapy Response in Colon Cancer Patients
Authors: Ouyang Yiben , Yu Mingqian , Liu Tiange , Suo Mengying , Qiao Jingyi , Wang Liqiang , Li Na
Published: November 2023

Accumulating evidence has underscored the prognostic value of tumor-infiltrating immune cells in the tumor microenvironment of colon cancer (CC). In this retrospective study, based on publicly available transcriptome profiles and clinical data from the Gene Expression Omnibus and The Cancer Genome Atlas databases, we derived and verified an activated dendritic cell (aDC)-related gene signature (aDCRS) for predicting the survival outcomes and chemotherapy and immunotherapy response of CC patients. We quantified the infiltration abundance of 22 immune cell subtypes via the “CIBERSORT” R script. Univariate Cox proportional hazards (PHs) regression was used to identify aDC as the most robust protective cell type for CC prognosis. After selecting differentially expressed genes (DEGs) significantly correlated with aDC infiltration, we performed univariate Cox-PH regression, LASSO regression, and stepwise multivariate Cox-PH regression successively to screen out prognosis-related genes from selected DEGs for constructing the aDCRS. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and Kaplan–Meier (KM) analysis were employed to assess the discriminatory ability and risk-stratification capacity. The “oncoPredict” package, Cancer Treatment Response gene signature DataBase, and Tumor Immune Dysfunction and Exclusion algorithm were utilized to estimate the practicability of the aDCRS in predicting response to chemotherapy and immune checkpoint blockade. Gene set enrichment analysis and single-cell RNA sequencing analysis were also implemented. Furthermore, an aDCRS-based nomogram was constructed and validated via ROC curves, calibration plots and decision curve analysis. In conclusion, aDCRS and an aDCRS-based nomogram will facilitate precise prognosis prediction and individualized therapeutic interventions, thus improving the survival outcomes of CC patients in the future.
Neurotrophic and Neuroprotective Effects of Hericium erinaceus
Authors: Szućko-Kociuba Izabela , Trzeciak-Ryczek Alicja , Kupnicka Patrycja , Chlubek Dariusz
Published: November 2023

Hericium erinaceus is a valuable mushroom known for its strong bioactive properties. It shows promising potential as an excellent neuroprotective agent, capable of stimulating nerve growth factor release, regulating inflammatory processes, reducing oxidative stress, and safeguarding nerve cells from apoptosis. The active compounds in the mushroom, such as erinacines and hericenones, have been the subject of research, providing evidence of their neuroprotective effects. Further research and standardization processes for dietary supplements focused on H. erinaceus are essential to ensuring effectiveness and safety in protecting the nervous system. Advancements in isolation and characterization techniques, along with improved access to pure analytical standards, will play a critical role in achieving standardized, high-quality dietary supplements based on H. erinaceus. The aim of this study is to analyze the protective and nourishing effects of H. erinaceus on the nervous system and present the most up-to-date research findings related to this topic.
Combined Multiplexed Phage Display, High-Throughput Sequencing, and Functional Assays as a Platform for Identifying Modulatory VHHs Targeting the FSHR
Authors: Zehnaker Anielka , Vallet Amandine , Gourdon Juliette , Sarti Caterina , Jugnarain Vinesh , Haj Hassan Maya , Mathias Laetitia , Gauthier Camille , Raynaud Pauline , Boulo Thomas , Beauclair Linda , Bigot Yves , Casarini Livio , Crépieux Pascale , Poupon Anne , Piégu Benoît , Jean-Alphonse Frédéric , Bruneau Gilles , Reiter Éric
Published: November 2023

Developing modulatory antibodies against G protein-coupled receptors is challenging. In this study, we targeted the follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR), a significant regulator of reproduction, with variable domains of heavy chain-only antibodies (VHHs). We built two immune VHH libraries and submitted them to multiplexed phage display approaches. We used next-generation sequencing to identify 34 clusters of specifically enriched sequences that were functionally assessed in a primary screen based on a cAMP response element (CRE)-dependent reporter gene assay. In this assay, 23 VHHs displayed negative or positive modulation of FSH-induced responses, suggesting a high success rate of the multiplexed strategy. We then focused on the largest cluster identified (i.e., PRC1) that displayed positive modulation of FSH action. We demonstrated that PRC1 specifically binds to the human FSHR and human FSHR/FSH complex while potentiating FSH-induced cAMP production and Gs recruitment. We conclude that the improved selection strategy reported here is effective for rapidly identifying functionally active VHHs and could be adapted to target other challenging membrane receptors. This study also led to the identification of PRC1, the first potential positive modulator VHH reported for the human FSHR.
Ginseng Stem-and-Leaf Saponins Mitigate Chlorpyrifos-Evoked Intestinal Toxicity In Vivo and In Vitro: Oxidative Stress, Inflammatory Response and Apoptosis
Authors: Liu Silu , Zhu Xiaoying , Pei Hongyan , Zhao Yan , Zong Ying , Chen Weijia , He Zhongmei , Du Rui
Published: November 2023

In recent years, the phenomenon of acute poisoning and organ damage caused by organophosphorus pesticides (OPs) has been a frequent occurrence. Chlorpyrifos (CPF) is one of the most widely used organophosphorus pesticides. The main active components of ginseng stems and leaves are total ginseng stem-and-leaf saponins (GSLSs), which have various biological effects, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-tumor activities. We speculate that these could have great potential in the treatment of severe diseases and the relief of organophosphorus-pesticide-induced side effects; however, their mechanism of action is still unknown. At present, our work aims to evaluate the effects of GSLSs on the antioxidation of CPF in vivo and in vitro and their potential pharmacological mechanisms. Mice treated with CPF (5 mg/kg) showed severe intestinal mucosal injury, an elevated diamine oxidase (DAO) index, the decreased expression of occlusive protein-1 (ZO-1) and occlusive protein, an impaired intestinal mucosal oxidation system and intestinal villi relaxation. In addition, chlorpyrifos exposure significantly increased the contents of the inflammatory factor TNF-α and the oxidative-stress-related indicators superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione SH (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX), reactive oxygen species (ROS) and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC); elevated the level of lipid peroxide malondialdehyde (MDA); reversed the expression of Bax and caspase; and activated NF-κB-related proteins. Interestingly, GSLS supplementation at doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg significantly reversed these changes after treatment. Similar results were observed in cultured RAW264.7 cells. Using flow cytometry, Hoechst staining showed that GSLSs (30 μg/mL, 60 μg/mL) could improve the cell injury and apoptosis caused by CPF and reduce the accumulation of ROS in cells. In conclusion, GSLSs play a protective role against CPF-induced enterotoxicity by inhibiting NF-κB-mediated apoptosis and alleviating oxidative stress and inflammation.
HSP90AB1 Is a Host Factor Required for Transmissible Gastroenteritis Virus Infection
Authors: Song Daili , Zhao Yujia , Sun Ying , Liang Yixiao , Chen Rui , Wen Yiping , Wu Rui , Zhao Qin , Du Senyan , Yan Qigui , Han Xinfeng , Cao Sanjie , Huang Xiaobo
Published: November 2023

Transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGEV) is an important swine enteric coronavirus causing viral diarrhea in pigs of all ages. Currently, the development of antiviral agents targeting host proteins to combat viral infection has received great attention. The heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) is a critical host factor and has important regulatory effects on the infection of various viruses. However, its roles in porcine coronavirus infection remain unclear. In this study, the effect of HSP90 on TGEV infection was evaluated. In addition, the influence of its inhibitor VER-82576 on proinflammatory cytokine (IL-6, IL-12, TNF-α, CXCL10, and CXCL11) production induced by TGEV infection was further analyzed. The results showed that the knockdown of HSP90AB1 and HSP90 inhibitor VER-82576 treatment resulted in a reduction in TGEV M gene mRNA levels, the N protein level, and virus titers in a dose-dependent manner, while the knockdown of HSP90AA1 and KW-2478 treatment had no significant effect on TGEV infection. A time-of-addition assay indicated that the inhibitory effect of VER-82576 on TGEV infection mainly occurred at the early stage of viral replication. Moreover, the TGEV-induced upregulation of proinflammatory cytokine (IL-6, IL-12, TNF-α, CXCL10, and CXCL11) expression was significantly inhibited by VER-82576. In summary, these findings indicated that HSP90AB1 is a host factor enhancing TGEV infection, and the HSP90 inhibitor VER-82576 could reduce TGEV infection and proinflammatory cytokine production, providing a new perspective for TGEV antiviral drug target design.