bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Influence of Solar Activity on Snow Cover over the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau and Its Mechanism Analysis
Authors: Song Yan , Li Zhicai , Zhou Yaqing , Bi Xunqiang , Sun Biyun , Xiao Tiangui , Suo Lin , Zhang Wei , Xiao Ziniu , Wang Chunzhu
Published: September 2022

Using global ocean vertical temperature anomaly data, we identified that a significant response of the sea temperature anomaly (STA) to the solar radio flux (SRF) exists. We found that the STA exhibited a significant correlation with Asian summer and winter precipitation, among which the response from the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau (the QTP) was particularly noticeable. Based on NCEP/NCAR reanalysis data, the latent heat flux (LHF) anomaly, which plays a key role in winter precipitation in China, especially over the QTP, showed a significant response to the SRF in the Pacific. The results demonstrated the bottom-up mechanism of impact of solar activity (SA) on the plateau snow through sea–air interaction. Meanwhile, a top-down mechanism was also present. When the SRF was high, the stratospheric temperature in the low and mid-latitudes increased and the temperature gradient pointed to the pole to strengthen the westerly wind in the mid-latitudes. The EP flux showed that atmospheric long waves in the high altitudes propagated downward from the stratosphere to the troposphere. A westerly (easterly) wind anomaly occurred in the south (north) of the QTP at 500 hPa and the snowfall rate over the QTP tended to increase. When the SRF was low, the situation was the opposite, and the snowfall rate tended to decrease. The model results confirmed that when total solar irradiance (TSI) became stronger (weaker), both of the solar radiation fluxes at the top of the atmosphere and the surface temperature over the QTP increased (decreased), the vertical updraft intensified (weakened), and the snowfall rate tended to increase (decrease) accordingly. These conclusions are helpful to deepen the understanding of SA’s influence on the snow cover over the QTP.
Fluctuations of Otoacoustic Emissions and Medial Olivocochlear Reflexes: Tracking One Subject over a Year
Authors: Pastucha Malgorzata , Jedrzejczak W. Wiktor
Published: September 2022

The purpose of the study was to measure the variability of transiently evoked otoacoustic emissions (TEOAEs) and the medial olivocochlear reflex (MOCR) over a long period of time in one person. TEOAEs with and without contralateral acoustic stimulation (CAS) by white noise were measured, from which MOCR strength could be derived as either a dB or % change. In this longitudinal case study, measurements were performed on the right and left ears of a young, normally hearing adult female once a week for 1 year. The results showed that TEOAE level and MOCR strength fluctuated over the year but tended to remain close to a baseline level, with standard deviations of around 0.5 dB and 0.05 dB, respectively. The TEOAE latencies at frequencies from 1 to 4 kHz were relatively stable, with maximum changes ranging from 0.5 ms for the 1 kHz band to 0.08 ms for the 4 kHz band. TEOAE levels and MOCR strengths were strongly and negatively correlated, meaning that the higher the TEOAE level, the lower the MOCR. Additionally, comparison of fluctuations between the ears revealed positive correlation, i.e., the higher the TEOAE level or MOCR in one ear, the higher in the second ear.
Molecular Mechanism of Blood Pressure Regulation through the Atrial Natriuretic Peptide
Authors: Tokudome Takeshi , Otani Kentaro
Published: September 2022

Natriuretic peptides, including atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), and C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP), have cardioprotective effects and regulate blood pressure in mammals. ANP and BNP are hormones secreted from the heart into the bloodstream in response to increased preload and afterload. Both hormones act through natriuretic peptide receptor 1 (NPR1). In contrast, CNP acts through natriuretic peptide receptor 2 (NPR2) and was found to be produced by the vascular endothelium, chondrocytes, and cardiac fibroblasts. Based on its relatively low plasma concentration compared with ANP and BNP, CNP is thought to function as both an autocrine and a paracrine factor in the vasculature, bone, and heart. The cytoplasmic domains of both NPR1 and NPR2 display a guanylate cyclase activity that catalyzes the formation of cyclic GMP. NPR3 lacks this guanylate cyclase activity and is reportedly coupled to Gi-dependent signaling. Recently, we reported that the continuous infusion of the peptide osteocrin, an endogenous ligand of NPR3 secreted by bone and muscle cells, lowered blood pressure in wild-type mice, suggesting that endogenous natriuretic peptides play major roles in the regulation of blood pressure. Neprilysin is a neutral endopeptidase that degrades several vasoactive peptides, including natriuretic peptides. The increased worldwide clinical use of the angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitor for the treatment of chronic heart failure has brought renewed attention to the physiological effects of natriuretic peptides. In this review, we provide an overview of the discovery of ANP and its translational research. We also highlight our recent findings on the blood pressure regulatory effects of ANP, focusing on its molecular mechanisms.
Evaluation of the Mandibular Condyle Morphologic Relation before and after Orthognathic Surgery in Class II and III Malocclusion Patients Using Cone Beam Computed Tomography
Authors: Roman Raluca , Almășan Oana , Hedeșiu Mihaela , Băciuț Mihaela , Bran Simion , Popa Daiana , Ban Alina , Dinu Cristian
Published: September 2022

This study aimed at evaluating the mandibular condyle position changes before and after bimaxillary orthognathic surgery in class II and III malocclusion patients. CBCT scans from patients who underwent bimaxillary orthognathic surgery were analyzed: Le Fort I osteotomy and bilateral sagittal split osteotomy (BSSO). Both condyles were independently assessed for their largest anterior and posterior joint spaces, smallest medial joint spaces, and condyle angles concerning the transverse line. In the sagittal plane, the minimum size of the anterior and posterior joint spaces was measured. In the coronal plane, the smallest medial joint space was measured. The position of the condyle within the glenoid fossa was determined before and after surgery. A total of 56 TMJs from 28 patients were studied. Following orthognathic surgery, the anterior and posterior space in class II increased. Postoperatively, the anterior joint space in class III decreased. In 42.85% of malocclusion class II patients and 57.14% of malocclusion class III patients, the pre-and post-surgical position of the condyle changed, the condyle was anteriorly positioned (42.85%) in class II patients and centrically positioned (71.4%) in class III patients. Significant changes in the joint space, condylar position, and condyle angle were found in the class II and class III subjects.
Ultra-Sensitive and Semi-Quantitative Vertical Flow Assay for the Rapid Detection of Interleukin-6 in Inflammatory Diseases
Authors: Lei Rongwei , Arain Hufsa , Obaid Maryam , Sabhnani Nivriti , Mohan Chandra
Published: September 2022

The inflammation biomarker Interleukin 6 (IL-6) exhibits a concentration of less than 7 pg/mL in healthy serum but increases 10–100-fold when inflammation occurs. Increased serum IL-6 has been reported in chronic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA), as well as in life-threatening acute illnesses such as sepsis and cytokine release syndrome (CRS). This work seeks to meet the demand for rapid detection of serum IL-6 both for rapid monitoring of chronic diseases and for triaging patients with acute illnesses. Following the optimization of several types of gold nanoparticles, membrane pore sizes, and buffer systems, an ultra-sensitive vertical flow assay (VFA) was engineered, allowing the detection of recombinant IL-6 in spiked buffer with a limit of detection (LoD) of 10 pg/mL and a reportable range of 10–10,000 pg/mL with a 15-min assay time. The detection of IL-6 in spiked pooled healthy serum exhibited an LoD of 3.2 pg/mL and a reportable range of 10–10,000 pg/mL. The VFA’s stability was demonstrated over 1-day, two-week, four-week, and six-week storage durations at room temperature. The inter-operator CV and intra-operator CV were determined to be 14.3% and 15.2%, respectively. Three reference zones, high, low, and blank, were introduced into the cartridge to facilitate on-site semi-quantitative measurements across a 6-point semi-quantitative range. Finally, the performance of the IL-6 VFA was validated using 20 RA and 20 healthy control (HC) clinical serum samples, using ELISA as the gold standard platform. The ultra-sensitive, rapid IL-6 VFA could potentially be used to triage patients for intensive care, treatment adjustments, or for monitoring disease activity in inflammatory conditions.
Liquid Crystal Droplet-Based Biosensors: Promising for Point-of-Care Testing
Authors: Xie Ruwen , Li Na , Li Zunhua , Chen Jinrong , Li Kaixuan , He Qiang , Liu Lishang , Zhang Shusheng
Published: September 2022

The development of biosensing platforms has been impressively accelerated by advancements in liquid crystal (LC) technology. High response rate, easy operation, and good stability of the LC droplet-based biosensors are all benefits of the long-range order of LC molecules. Bioprobes emerged when LC droplets were combined with biotechnology, and these bioprobes are used extensively for disease diagnosis, food safety, and environmental monitoring. The LC droplet biosensors have high sensitivity and excellent selectivity, making them an attractive tool for the label-free, economical, and real-time detection of different targets. Portable devices work well as the accessory kits for LC droplet-based biosensors to make them easier to use by anyone for on-site monitoring of targets. Herein, we offer a review of the latest developments in the design of LC droplet-based biosensors for qualitative target monitoring and quantitative target analysis.
Continuous Neurophysiologic Data Accurately Predict Mood and Energy in the Elderly
Authors: Merritt Sean H. , Krouse Michael , Alogaily Rana S. , Zak Paul J.
Published: September 2022

The elderly have an elevated risk of clinical depression because of isolation from family and friends and a reticence to report their emotional states. The present study explored whether data from a commercial neuroscience platform could predict low mood and low energy in members of a retirement community. Neurophysiologic data were collected continuously for three weeks at 1Hz and averaged into hourly and daily measures, while mood and energy were captured with self-reports. Two neurophysiologic measures averaged over a day predicted low mood and low energy with 68% and 75% accuracy. Principal components analysis showed that neurologic variables were statistically associated with mood and energy two days in advance. Applying machine learning to hourly data classified low mood and low energy with 99% and 98% accuracy. Two-day lagged hourly neurophysiologic data predicted low mood and low energy with 98% and 96% accuracy. This study demonstrates that continuous measurement of neurophysiologic variables may be an effective way to reduce the incidence of mood disorders in vulnerable people by identifying when interventions are needed.
Recognition and Processing of Visual Information after Neuronavigated Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Session
Authors: Kasprzycka Wiktoria , Naurecka Magdalena Ligia , Sierakowski Bartosz Michał , Putko Paulina , Mierczyk Zygmunt , Chabik Grzegorz , Dec Stanisław , Gaździński Stefan , Rola Rafał
Published: September 2022

Background: Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a method of noninvasive and painless stimulation of the nervous system, which is based on Faraday’s law of electromagnetic induction. Over the past twenty years, the TMS technique has been deployed as a tool for the diagnosis and therapy of neurodegenerative diseases, as well as in the treatment of mental disorders (e.g., depression). Methods: We tested the inhibitory effects of repetitive TMS (rTMS) on reaction times to militarily relevant visual stimuli amidst distractors and on accompanying blood oxygenation level dependent (BOLD) signal functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) in 20 healthy people. rTMS was applied over the visual cortices, V1, on both hemispheres with the inhibitory theta burst paradigm with the intensity of 70% of the active motor threshold fMRI in 20 healthy people. Results: Analysis of the reaction time to visual stimuli after using TMS to the V1 visual cortex revealed an increase in the number of incorrect recognitions, and the reaction time was from 843 to 910 ms. In the subgroup of participants (n = 15), after the stimulation, there were significant reductions of BOLD signal in blood flow within V1 cortices. Conclusions: The studies of reaction times after the rTMS revealed the inhibitory effect of rTMS on the reaction times and recognition performance of significant (military) objects in the visual field.
Hydrogen Sulfide Attenuates Neuroinflammation by Inhibiting the NLRP3/Caspase-1/GSDMD Pathway in Retina or Brain Neuron following Rat Ischemia/Reperfusion
Authors: Yang Kun-Li , Li Wen-Hong , Liu Ya-Jie , Wei Ying-Juan , Ren Yan-Kai , Mai Chen-Di , Zhang Si-Yu , Zuo Yue , Sun Zhen-Zhou , Li Dong-Liang , Yang Chih-Huang
Published: September 2022

Gasdermin D-executing pyroptosis mediated by NLRP3 inflammasomes has been recognized as a key pathogenesis during stroke. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) could protect CNS against ischemia/reperfusion (I/R)-induced neuroinflammation, while the underlying mechanism remains unclear. The study applied the middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion (MCAO/R) model to investigate how the brain and the retinal injuries were alleviated in sodium hydrogen sulfide (NaHS)-treated rats. The rats were assigned to four groups and received an intraperitoneal injection of 50 μmol/kg NaHS or NaCl 15 min after surgery. Neurological deficits were evaluated using the modified neurologic severity score. The quantification of pro-inflammatory cytokines, NLRP3, caspase-1, and GSDMD were determined by ELISA and Western blot. Cortical and retinal neurodegeneration and cell pyroptosis were determined by histopathologic examination. Results showed that NaHS rescued post-stroke neurological deficits and infarct progression, improved retina injury, and attenuated neuroinflammation in the brain cortexes and the retinae. NaHS administration inhibits inflammation by blocking the NLRP3/caspase-1/GSDMD pathway and further suppressing neuronal pyroptosis. This is supported by the fact that it reversed the high-level of NLRP3, caspase-1, and GSDMD following I/R. Our findings suggest that compounds with the ability to donate H2S could constitute a novel therapeutic strategy for ischemic stroke.
Predictors of the Level of Physical Activity in Physically Active Older People
Authors: Parra-Rizo María Antonia , Vásquez-Gómez Jaime , Álvarez Cristian , Diaz-Martínez Ximena , Troncoso Claudia , Leiva-Ordoñez Ana Maria , Zapata-Lamana Rafael , Cigarroa Igor
Published: September 2022

There has not been much study of risk profiles in older people according to different levels of practice in physical activity. For this reason, the aim of this research was to evaluate whether the elements that influence the quality of life and factors such as gender and education can predict the level of physical activity in the physically active elderly population. The Fernández–Ballesteros quality of life questionnaire and the WHO International Physical Activity Questionnaire were applied to a sample of 397 people with a mean age of 69.65 years (SD = 4.71). The results revealed the following predictive factors of practicing a low level of physical activity (p < 0.05): being a woman; having a low educational level; and low scores in activity and leisure and in functional skills. In conclusion, gender, education, functional skills, activity and leisure, and health are elements of quality of life that predict the level of physical activity performed by the elderly, where it is necessary to use leisure activities (visiting friends, playing games, running errands) as an indirect way to increase participation in physical activity.
Flexural Behavior of RC Beams Strengthened with GFRP Laminate and Retrofitting with Novelty of Adhesive Material
Authors: Rageh Basem O. , El-Mandouh Mahmoud A. , Elmasry Ahmed H. , Attia Mohammed M.
Published: September 2022

Two unique approaches were proposed to strengthen the bond between the glass fiber reinforcement polymer (GFRP) and the RC concrete surfaces. The two bonding materials are epoxy (EP) and geopolymer (GPP) with different ratios of short glass fibers (SGF). The experimental program includes seven reinforced concrete (RC) beams that have the same cross-section (150 mm × 200 mm) and are 1500 mm in length. The first beam is the control beam (B0-Control). The next three beams B1-0-GPP, B2-0.6-GPP, and B3-1.2-GPP have GPP with SGF ratios of 0%, 0.6%, and 1.2%, respectively. The last three beams B4-0-EP, B5-0.6-EP, and B6-1.2-EP have EP with SGF ratios of 0%, 0.6%, and 1.2%, respectively. The results show that the failure loads of beams B1-0-GPP, B2-0.60-GPP, and B3-1.2-GPP are greater than the control beam B0-Control by approximately 20.80%, 25.60%, and 31.40%, respectively, whereas the failure loads of beams B4-0-EP, B5-0.6-EP, and B6-1.2-EP are greater than the B0-Control by approximately 16.90%, 26.90%, and 26.10%, respectively; it is also noted that debonding occurs. In addition to the adhesive material, GPP has a great effect on increasing the beam’s failure load capacity due to the enhanced interfacial bond shear strength. Additionally, a finite-element program ABAQUS is performed to verify the experimental results.
Lung Adenocarcinoma Cell Sensitivity to Chemotherapies: A Spotlight on Lipid Droplets and SREBF1 Gene
Authors: Gründing Anna Ricarda , Schneider Marc A. , Richtmann Sarah , Kriegsmann Mark , Winter Hauke , Martinez-Delgado Beatriz , Varona Sarai , Liu Bin , DeLuca David S. , Held Julia , Wrenger Sabine , Muley Thomas , Meister Michael , Welte Tobias , Janciauskiene Sabina
Published: September 2022

To explore the relationship between cancer cell SREBF1 expression, lipid droplets (LDs) formation, and the sensitivity to chemotherapies, we cultured lung adenocarcinoma cells H1299 (with LD) and H1563 (without LD) in a serum-free basal medium (BM) or neutrophil degranulation products containing medium (NDM), and tested cell responses to cisplatin and etoposide. By using the DESeq2 Bioconductor package, we detected 674 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with NDM/BM differences between two cell lines, many of these genes were associated with the regulation of sterol and cholesterol biosynthesis processes. Specifically, SREBF1 markedly declined in both cell lines cultured in NDM or when treated with chemotherapeutics. Despite the latter, H1563 exhibited LD formation and resistance to etoposide, but not to cisplatin. Although H1299 cells preserved LDs, these cells were similarly sensitive to both drugs. In a cohort of 292 patients with non-small-cell lung cancer, a lower SREBF1 expression in tumors than in adjacent nontumor tissue correlated with overall better survival, specifically in patients with adenocarcinoma at stage I. Our findings imply that a direct correlation between SREBF1 and LD accumulation can be lost due to the changes in cancer cell environment and/or chemotherapy. The role of LDs in lung cancer development and response to therapies remains to be examined in more detail.
Lymph Node Ratio as a Prognostic Factor in Neck Dissection in Oral Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Gartagani Zoi , Doumas Stergios , Kyriakopoulou Artemis , Economopoulou Panagiota , Psaltopoulou Theodora , Kotsantis Ioannis , Sergentanis Theodoros N. , Psyrri Amanda
Published: September 2022

Many studies have evaluated the clinical implications of lymph node ratio (LNR) as a prognostic factor in patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). The main purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to address LNR as a prognosticator in patients with OSCC. A systematic search was conducted in the following databases: PubMed, EMBASE, Google Scholar, OpenGrey, Cochrane library, and ClinicalTrials.gov, and studies between 2009 and 2020 were sought. The pooled relative risk was calculated along with 95% confidence intervals for the following endpoints: overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS), disease-specific survival (DSS), distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS), locoregional disease-free survival (LRDFS), local recurrence-free survival (LRFS), and recurrence-free survival (RFS) according to the random-effects model (Der Simonian–Laird approach). Subgroup and meta-regression analyses were performed as well. Finally, 32 cohort studies were eligible, which included 20,994 patients with OSCC. Patients were subdivided into two categories, group YES (studies that included in their analysis only patients with positive lymph nodes) and group NO (studies that did not exclude LNR = 0 patients). In the group YES, patients with high LNR had shorter OS (RR = 1.68, 95% CI: 1.47–1.91), DFS (RR = 1.68, 95% CI: 1.42–1.99), DSS (RR = 1.94, 95% CI: 1.56–2.42), DMFS (RR = 1.83, 95% CI: 1.13–2.96), LRDFS (RR = 1.55, 95% CI: 1.10–2.20), and LRFS (RR = 1.73, 95% CI: 1.41–2.13) compared to patients with low LNR. In the group NO, patients with high LNR in comparison had shorter OS (RR = 2.38, 95% CI: 1.99–2.85), DFS (RR = 2.04, 95% CI: 1.48–2.81), and DSS (RR = 2.90, 95% CI: 2.35–3.57) compared to patients with low LNR. Based on those findings, LNR might be an independent prognostic factor for OS in patients with OSCC and could be incorporated into future classification systems for better risk stratification.
Review Article: Immune Landscape and Immunotherapy Options in Cervical Carcinoma
Authors: Kousar Kousain , Ahmad Tahir , Naseer Faiza , Kakar Salik , Anjum Sadia
Published: September 2022

Carcinoma of the cervix is one of the most common cancers that claims women’s lives every year. Despite preventive HPV vaccines and conventional cancer treatments, approximately 273,000 women succumb to cervical carcinoma every year. Immune system perturbations help malignant cells in immune evasion, tumor establishment, invasion, and metastasis. An insight into immune system players that promote or suppress cervical cancer is important for the development of more targeted therapies with the fewest side effects. Immunotherapy has emerged as the most compliant approach to target cancer because it utilizes a natural course of action to stimulate the immune system against cancer cells. The major immunotherapy approaches for cervical carcinoma include monoclonal antibodies, immune checkpoint blockade therapy, adoptive cell transfer therapies, and oncolytic viruses. In October 2021 the FDA approved pembrolizumab in combination with chemotherapy or bevacizumab as a first-line treatment for cervical cancer. A recent breakthrough has been made in the cancer immunotherapy regimen in which a monoclonal antibody dostarlimab was able to completely cure all colorectal cancer patients, with disease-free progression after 6 months and counting. This creates hope that immunotherapy may prove to be the final nail in the coffin of this centuries-long prevalent disease of “cancer”.
Overview of Nanoparticle-Based Approaches for the Combination of Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) and Chemotherapy at the Preclinical Stage
Authors: Menilli Luca , Milani Celeste , Reddi Elena , Moret Francesca
Published: September 2022

The widespread diffusion of photodynamic therapy (PDT) as a clinical treatment for solid tumors is mainly limited by the patient’s adverse reaction (skin photosensivity), insufficient light penetration in deeply seated neoplastic lesions, unfavorable photosensitizers (PSs) biodistribution, and photokilling efficiency due to PS aggregation in biological environments. Despite this, recent preclinical studies reported on successful combinatorial regimes of PSs with chemotherapeutics obtained through the drugs encapsulation in multifunctional nanometric delivery systems. The aim of the present review deals with the punctual description of several nanosystems designed not only with the objective of co-transporting a PS and a chemodrug for combination therapy, but also with the goal of improving the therapeutic efficacy by facing the main critical issues of both therapies (side effects, scarce tumor oxygenation and light penetration, premature drug clearance, unspecific biodistribution, etc.). Therefore, particular attention is paid to the description of bio-responsive drugs and nanoparticles (NPs), targeted nanosystems, biomimetic approaches, and upconverting NPs, including analyzing the therapeutic efficacy of the proposed photo-chemotherapeutic regimens in in vitro and in vivo cancer models.
Synthesis of Fe2O3/Mn2O3 Nanocomposites and Impregnated Porous Silicates for Dye Removal: Insights into Treatment Mechanisms
Authors: Baek Soyoung , Ghaffari Yasaman , Bae Jiyeol
Published: September 2022

Fe2O3/Mn2O3 nanocomposites and impregnated porous silicates (Fe2O3/Mn2O3@SiO2 [FMS]) were prepared and investigated as catalytic adsorbents. The catalysts were applied for cationic and anionic dye pollutants in the adsorption, Fenton reaction, and photocatalysis processes at a pH of 7. Fe2O3/Mn2O3 nanoparticles (FM-NPs) were prepared using the co-precipitation method and were impregnated in SiO2 by the sol–gel process. The synthesized materials were characterized using various sophisticated techniques. Results indicated that the impregnation of bi-metallic NPs in SiO2 increased the surface area, and the function of the adsorbent also improved. FMS showed a significant adsorption effect, with 79.2% rhodamine B removal within 15 min. Fenton and photocatalyst reaction showed removal rates of 85.3% and 97.9%, respectively, indicating that negatively charged porous silicate attracts cationic pollutants. In the case of the anionic pollutant, Congo red, the adsorption reaction of FMS did not occur, and the removal rate of the photocatalyst reaction was 79%, indicating the repulsive force between the negatively charged silica and the anionic dye. Simultaneously, bi-metal-bonded FM-NPs facilitated the photocatalytic reaction, reducing the recombination of electron-hole pairs. This study provides new insights into the synthesis of FM-NPs and FMS as photocatalytic adsorbents and their photocatalytic mechanisms based on reaction conditions and contaminant characteristics. The developed materials have potential applications for environmental mitigation.
BaCO3 Nanoparticles-Modified Composite Cathode with Improved Electrochemical Oxygen Reduction Kinetics for High-Performing Ceramic Fuel Cells
Authors: Desta Halefom G. , Yang Quan , Tian Dong , Zhu Shiyue , Lu Xiaoyong , Song Kai , Yang Yang , Chen Yonghong , Li Baihai , Lin Bin
Published: September 2022

The effects of the electrochemical oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) on the surface of single-phase perovskite cathodes are well understood, but its potential for use in a complex system consisting of different material types is unexplored. Herein, we report how BaCO3 nanoparticles-modified La0.6Sr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3-δ-Gd0.2Ce0.8O2-δ (LSCF–GDC)-composite cathodes improved the electrochemical oxygen reduction kinetics for high-performing ceramic fuel cells. Both X-ray diffraction (XRD) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) studies reveal that BaCO3 is stable, and that it does not show any solid-state reaction with LSCF–GDC at SOFCs’ required operating temperature. The electrochemical conductivity relaxation (ECR) study reveals that during the infiltration of BaCO3 nanoparticles into LSCF–GDC, the surface exchange kinetics (Kchem) are enhanced up to a factor of 26.73. The maximum power density of the NiO-YSZ anode-support cell is increased from 1.08 to 1.48 W/cm2 via surface modification at 750 °C. The modified cathode also shows an ultralow polarization resistance (Rp) of 0.027 Ω.cm2, which is ~4.4 times lower than that of the bare cathode (~0.12 Ω.cm2) at 750 °C. Such enhancement can be attributed to the accelerated oxygen surface exchange process, possibly through promoting the dissociation of oxygen molecules via the infiltration of BaCO3 nanoparticles. The density functional theory (DFT) illustrates the interaction mechanism between oxygen molecules and the BaCO3 surface.
The Role of Neutrophils in Oncolytic Orf Virus-Mediated Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Minott Jessica A. , van Vloten Jacob P. , Chan Lily , Mehrani Yeganeh , Bridle Byram W. , Karimi Khalil
Published: September 2022

Neutrophils are innate leukocytes with diverse effector functions that allow them to respond to pathogens rapidly. Accumulating evidence has highlighted these cells’ complex roles in the host’s response to viral infections and tumor progression. Oncolytic virotherapy is emerging as a promising treatment modality in the armamentarium of cancer therapeutics. Oncolytic viruses preferentially kill cancer cells and stimulate tumor-associated inflammation, resulting in tumor regression. Assessing the activity of individual effector cell subsets following oncolytic virotherapy is important in identifying their contribution to antitumor immunity. In this study, we investigated the role of neutrophils in oncolytic Orf-virus-mediated immunotherapy in a murine model of pulmonary melanoma metastases. The systemic administration of the Orf virus stimulated a dramatic increase in the number of leukocytes in circulation and within the tumor microenvironment, most of which were neutrophils. Analysis of tumor-burdened lungs shortly after therapy revealed significant numbers of phenotypically immature neutrophils, with the enhanced expression of molecules affiliated with activation, migration, and cytotoxicity. Neutrophils stimulated by Orf virus therapy were directly tumoricidal through tumor necrosis factor-α-mediated effects and were required for optimal antitumor efficacy following Orf virus therapy. Taken together, these data reveal neutrophils as a crucial innate effector to consider when investigating oncolytic virotherapy.
Liver Kinase B1 Functions as a Regulator for Neural Development and a Therapeutic Target for Neural Repair
Authors: Huang En , Li Shuxin
Published: September 2022

The liver kinase B1 (LKB1), also known as serine/threonine kinase 11 (STK11) and Par-4 in C. elegans, has been identified as a master kinase of AMPKs and AMPK-related kinases. LKB1 plays a crucial role in cell growth, metabolism, polarity, and tumor suppression. By interacting with the downstream signals of SAD, NUAK, MARK, and other kinases, LKB1 is critical to regulating neuronal polarization and axon branching during development. It also regulates Schwann cell function and the myelination of peripheral axons. Regulating LKB1 activity has become an attractive strategy for repairing an injured nervous system. LKB1 upregulation enhances the regenerative capacity of adult CNS neurons and the recovery of locomotor function in adult rodents with CNS axon injury. Here, we update the major cellular and molecular mechanisms of LKB1 in regulating neuronal polarization and neural development, and the implications thereof for promoting neural repair, axon regeneration, and functional recovery in adult mammals.
Study on the Evolution of Wheel Wear and Its Impact on Vehicle Dynamics of High-Speed Trains
Authors: Hou Maorui , Chen Bingzhi , Cheng Di
Published: September 2022

Wheel wear is one of the most critical factors affecting the vehicle performances and maintenance costs of railway vehicles. However, previous research has to ignore the initial wheel-rail profiles for the evolution of wheel wear. Therefore, this work investigates the relationship between the evolution of wheel wear corresponding to different initial wheel-rail profiles and vehicle dynamics, wheel-rail deterioration. Firstly, the evolution of wheel wear during a long service period is measured from two high-speed railway trains running on two different lines. Contact geometry, e.g., equivalent conicity and contact pair distribution, are extracted. After that, the influence of wheel wear on the vehicle dynamic performance is studied using a multi-body dynamic software. The calculated contact parameters, e.g., pressure, shear traction, and creepage, are used to analyze the distribution of rolling contact fatigue. Based on the experimental and simulation results, the initial wheel and rail profiles significantly affects the wheel wear pattern, the thin rim wheel has uniform wear, and other wheels occurs hollow wear. The hollow wear can lead to gradual deterioration of vehicle dynamics, which conversely aggravates the wheel reprofiling.
The Historical Relationship between the Software Vulnerability Lifecycle and Vulnerability Markets: Security and Economic Risks
Authors: Algarni Abdullah M.
Published: September 2022

Vulnerability lifecycles and the vulnerability markets are related in a manner that can lead to serious security and economic risks, especially regarding black markets. In the current era, this is a relationship that requires careful scrutiny from society as a whole. Therefore, in this study, we analyzed the actual data relating to vulnerability-regulated markets in the case of two well-known browsers, Firefox and Chrome. Our analysis shows that financial reward is the main motivation for most discoverers, whose numbers are increasing every year. In addition, we studied the correlation between vulnerability markets and the vulnerability lifecycle from many perspectives, including theoretical concepts, and statistical approaches. Furthermore, we discussed the potential risks for people and organizations in terms of security and economics. We believe that money is the main motivation in vulnerability markets and that the latter are, in turn, the main driver of the vulnerability lifecycle, which presents several risks to the software industry and to society itself. Thus, in our opinion, if vulnerability markets can be controlled, the vulnerability lifecycle will be reduced or eliminated, along with its associated risks.
Protective Effects of Theaflavins and Epigallocatechin Gallate against ZnO-NP-Induced Cell Apoptosis In Vitro
Authors: Shan Xiaodong , Chen Feifei , Lin Huikang , Zhang Hangjun , Zhong Yuchi , Liu Zhiquan , Li Yan
Published: September 2022

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) are commonly used in various commercial applications, causing toxic effects on organisms and destroying biodiversity, but information about their protective approaches remains unknown. This study aims to evaluate the protective effects of theaflavins (TFs) and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) against ZnO-NP-induced cytotoxicity in rat tracheal epithelial (RTE) cells. Herein, RTE cells were exposed to 100 μg/L ZnO-NPs for 12 h, then treated with 0, 10, 100, and 1000 μg/L TFs or EGCG for another 12 h; subsequently, oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis analyses were conducted. Relative to the control groups, TFs and EGCG treatment significantly inhibited the levels of reactive oxygen species and malondialdehyde content. Exposure to 1000 μg/L TFs or EGCG treatment downregulated cytochrome C gene expression levels by 59.10% and 77.27%; Caspase 3 gene expression by 50.03% and 60.01%; Caspase 8 gene expression by 45.11% and 55.57%; and Caspase 9 gene expression by 51.33% and 66.67%, respectively. Meanwhile, interleukin 1β and interleukin 6, tumor necrosis factor-α, and the other inflammatory chemokines such as C-C motif chemokine 2 and C-X-C motif chemokine 8 expression were all gradually rescued after the addition of TFs or EGCG. These results imply that TFs or EGCG possibly ameliorated ZnO-NPs-induced toxicity through antiapoptotic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects. This study provides novel approaches which mitigate the emerging nanoparticle pollutant toxicity in organisms, which may potentially slow down the destruction of biodiversity.
Molecular Characterization of Whole-Genome SARS-CoV-2 from the First Suspected Cases of the XE Variant in the Lazio Region, Italy
Authors: Rueca Martina , Giombini Emanuela , Gramigna Giulia , Gruber Cesare Ernesto Maria , Fabeni Lavinia , Corpolongo Angela , Mazzotta Valentina , Corso Luisella , Butera Ornella , Valli Maria Beatrice , Carletti Fabrizio , Pignalosa Stefano , Vairo Francesco , Nicastri Emanuele , Antinori Andrea , Girardi Enrico , Vaia Francesco , Maggi Fabrizio ,   SARS CoV-2 Lazio Surveillance Study Group
Published: September 2022

We report two cases of SARS-CoV-2 recombinant variant XE detected in nasopharyngeal swabs (NPS) of hospitalized patients with no evident epidemiological link in Lazio, Central Italy. Whole-Genome Sequencing (WGS) performed on an Ion Torrent GSS5 platform according to Italian flash surveys showed genomes corresponding to the PANGOLIN unclassified lineage and the Nextclade XE clade. Further analyses were then carried out to investigate more deeply the genetic characteristics of these XE-like sequences. When phylogenetic trees, by using IQ-TREE, were built splitting the genome into two regions according to the putative XE recombination site, the upstream and downstream regions were seen to be clustered near BA.1 and BA.2 sequences, respectively. However, our XE-like sequences clustered separately, with a significant bootstrap, from the classified European and Italian XE strains, although the recombination site between BA.1 and BA.2 was identified at the nucleotide site 11556 by RDP4 software, consistent with the putative XE breakpoint. These findings show the risk of the introduction of novel recombinant variants of SARS-CoV-2 and the existence of XE-like strains, phylogenetically separated, that could make their exact taxonomy difficult. It follows the need for continued SARS-CoV-2 surveillance by WGS.
Endocytoscopic Observation of Esophageal Lesions: Our Own Experience and a Review of the Literature
Authors: Kumagai Youichi , Takubo Kaiyo , Kawada Kenro , Ohue Masayuki , Higashi Morihiro , Ishiguro Toru , Hatano Satoshi , Toyomasu Yoshitaka , Matsuyama Takatoshi , Mochiki Erito , Ishida Hideyuki
Published: September 2022

This review outlines the process of the development of the endocytoscope (EC) with reference to previously reported studies including our own. The EC is an ultra-high-magnification endoscope capable of imaging at the cellular level. The esophagus is the most suitable site for EC observation because it is amenable to vital staining. The diagnosis of esophageal lesions using EC is based on nuclear density and nuclear abnormality, allowing biopsy histology to be omitted. The observation of nuclear abnormality requires a magnification of ×600 or higher using digital technology. Several staining methods have been proposed, but single staining with toluidine blue or methylene blue is most suitable because the contrast at the border of a cancerous area can be easily identified. A three-tier classification of esophageal lesions visualized by EC is proposed: Type 1 (non-cancerous), Type 2 (endocytoscopic borderline), and Type 3 (cancerous). Since characteristic EC images reflecting pathology can be obtained from non-cancerous esophageal lesions, a modified form of classification with four additional characteristic non-cancerous EC features has also been proposed. Recently, deep-learning AI for analysis of esophageal EC images has revealed that its diagnostic accuracy is comparable to that of expert pathologists.
Effects of the Occupational Ethics of Health Workers on Job Satisfaction—Focusing on Dental Technicians and Dental Hygienists
Authors: Lee Sun-Kyoung , Seong Jeong-Min
Published: September 2022

This study investigates the effects of professional ethics on the job satisfaction of dental technicians and dental hygienists among health and medical personnel. From 1 July to 30 September 2021, a survey was conducted with 178 dental technicians and dental hygienists. Frequency analysis, correlation analysis, and multiple regression analysis were performed. The collected data were processed using SPSS version 22.0 statistical program (IBM, Armonk, NY, USA). The significance level was set to 0.05. As factors influencing the professional ethics of dental technicians and dental hygienists, diligence, reduced leisure, work orientation, and time saving were found to affect job satisfaction. In addition to morality, various elements of professional ethics and their causal relationships with job satisfaction were investigated. In the future, in preparation for the increasing ethical problems in the medical environment, education on professional ethics should be standardized and conducted more systematically.
TB-NUCA: A Temperature-Balanced 3D NUCA Based on Bayesian Optimization
Authors: Liu Hanyan , Zhao Yunping , Chen Xiaowen , Li Chen , Lu Jianzhuang
Published: September 2022

Three-dimensional network-on-chip (NoC) is the primary interconnection method for 3D-stacked multicore processors due to their excellent scalability and interconnect flexibility. With the support of 3D NoC, 3D non-uniform cache architecture (NUCA) is commonly used to organize the last-level cache (LLC) due to its high capacity and fast access latency. However, owing to the layered structure that leads to longer heat dissipation paths and variable inter-layer cooling efficiency, 3D NoC experiences a severe thermal problem that has a big impact on the reliability and performance of the chip. In traditional memory-to-LLC mapping in 3D NUCA, the traffic load in each node is inconsistent with its heat dissipation capability, causing thermal hotspots. To solve the above problem, we propose a temperature-balanced NUCA mapping mechanism named TB-NUCA. First, the Bayesian optimization algorithm is used to calculate the probability distribution of cache blocks in each node in order to equalize the node temperature. Secondly, the structure of TB-NUCA is designed. Finally, comparative experiments were conducted under random, transpose-2, and shuffle traffic patterns. The experimental results reveal that, compared with the classical NUCA mapping mechanism (S-NUCA), TB-NUCA can increase the mean-time-to-failure (MTTF) of routers by up to 28.13% while reducing the maximum temperature, average temperature, and standard deviation of temperature by a maximum of 4.92%, 4.48%, and 20.46%, respectively.
Building Trust toward Sharing Economy Platforms beyond the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Dabija Dan-Cristian , Csorba Luiela Magdalena , Isac Florin-Lucian , Rusu Sergiu
Published: September 2022

The sharing economy has seen a worldwide boom in recent years. In tourism, such platforms are being increasingly used; however, analysis of consumers’ behavior toward such platforms in the context of technological innovation since the COVID-19 pandemic is almost non-existent. The aim of the present research is to fill this gap by studying, with the aid of structural equations, factors that influence the attitudes and behavior of consumers of tourist services offered through sharing economy platforms. Under the impact of the adoption of new technologies, the perceived value generated by these platforms is considered in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Trust in tourism sharing economy platforms and their perceived value is determined by consumers’ experience of using them, the authenticity of platforms, propensity toward technological innovation, and users’ demand for novelty. Data collected from 548 respondents were modeled using structural equations in SmartPLS. Results show that experience, the authenticity of platform, openness to new things, and technological innovation are the determining factors that influence consumers’ behavior on sharing economy tourism platforms. The originality of the research consists of the implementation, in a sharing economy context, of a new construct for this sector, which can also be used in other fields, namely that of pandemic fear. Furthermore, the way in which other constructs are included in the proposed conceptual model and the links between them presents additional novelty. Given the trend of increasing demand for such platforms and tourists’ appetite for technological innovation, it will become a managerial challenge for businesses in this field to keep up with the constant evolution of cutting-edge technologies.
Wideband mm-Wave Hemispherical Dielectric Resonator Antenna with Simple Alignment and Assembly Procedures
Authors: Alanazi Meshari D. , Khamas Salam K.
Published: September 2022

A wideband hemispherical dielectric resonator antenna (DRA) with enhanced gain is proposed for a frequency band of 20 to 28 GHz. The precise alignment and assembly of the DRA represent key challenges at such frequencies that were addressed using three approaches: the first was based on outlining the DRA position on the ground plane, the second involved creating a groove in the compound ground plane in which the DRA is placed, and the third was based on the 3D-printing of the DRA on a perforated substrate. In all cases, the same DRA was utilized and excited in a higher-order mode using an annular ring slot. The high gain was achieved by exciting a higher-order mode, and the wideband was obtained by merging the bandwidths of the two excited modes. The alignment methods used expedite the DRA prototyping by saving substantial time that is usually spent in adjusting the DRA position with respect to the feeding slot. The proposed configurations were measured, with an impedance bandwidth of 33.33% and a maximum gain of 10 dBi observed. Close agreement was achieved between the measured and simulated results.
Machine Learning-Based Load Forecasting for Nanogrid Peak Load Cost Reduction
Authors: Kumar Akash , Yan Bing , Bilton Ace
Published: September 2022

Increased focus on sustainability and energy decentralization has positively impacted the adoption of nanogrids. With the tremendous growth, load forecasting has become crucial for their daily operation. Since the loads of nanogrids have large variations with sudden usage of large household electrical appliances, existing forecasting models, majorly focused on lower volatile loads, may not work well. Moreover, abrupt operation of electrical appliances in a nanogrid, even for shorter durations, especially in “Peak Hours”, raises the energy cost substantially. In this paper, an ANN model with dynamic feature selection is developed to predict the hour-ahead load of nanogrids based on meteorological data and a load lag of 1 h (t-1). In addition, by thresholding the predicted load against the average load of previous hours, peak loads, and their time indices are accurately identified. Numerical testing results show that the developed model can predict loads of nanogrids with the Mean Square Error (MSE) of 0.03 KW, the Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) of 9%, and the coefficient of variation (CV) of 11.9% and results in an average of 20% daily energy cost savings by shifting peak load to off-peak hours.
EV Charging on Ferries and in Terminals—A Business Model Perspective
Authors: Williamsson Jon
Published: September 2022

Ferry operators in Sweden provide transportation for tens of millions of people annually. As electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming more commonplace, ferries and ferry terminals seem like suitable places for providing charging services. However, high costs and low occupancy rates means that it is challenging to design profitable business models for charging services in general. This paper reports on a market review of the charging services that ferry operators in Sweden provide and a case study of suitable business model design elements for operators that intend to offer charging on board or in terminals. While only two of fifteen ferry operators offer EV charging on board, four more operators indicated that they were planning to provide such services in the near future. Nine operators offered charging in or close to ferry terminals. The results also indicate that business model design focuses primarily on safety, leading to higher costs for onboard charging due to hardware and staffing costs. Investments also tend to incorporate costs which are not specific to onboard charging but rather the general safety requirements associated with EVs. Finally, poor profitability makes future development dependent on managerial efforts to reduce costs and improve revenue as well as supportive policies such as investment subsidies.