bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship Among Green Human Resource Management, Green Knowledge Sharing, Green Commitment, and Green Behavior: A Moderated Mediation Model
Authors: Khan Kalimullah , Shams Muhammad Shahid , Khan Qaisar , Akbar Sher , Niazi Murtaza Masud
Published: June 2022

This study aims to examine the underlying mechanism of the relationship between perceived green human resource management (GHRM) and perceived employee green behavior (EGB). By drawing on attitude and social exchange theories, we examined green commitment (GC) as a mediator and green knowledge sharing (GKS) as a moderator of the GHRM–EGB relationship. The study employs partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to analyze 329 responses. Data were collected in two time lags. The empirical results confirmed that GC mediates the relationship between GHRM and EGB. However, the study results found that GKS moderated the indirect influence of GHRM on green behavior via GC. This research signifies the effect of GHRM, GKS, GC, and green behavior on organizations’ sustainability and environmental management. Despite the emerging literature on the significance of green practices in organizations for environmental management, no study has examined the moderating role of GKS on the indirect effect of GHRM on green behavior via mediating role of GC. This study offers valuable insight into environmental management in organizations through green practices and green behavior.
Impact of Perceived Product Value on Customer-Based Brand Equity: Marx’s Theory – Value-Based Perspective
Authors: Qiao Yonggang , Yin Xirui , Xing Gao
Published: June 2022

Management research is allocating energies to seek ways to improve organizational performance. Branding has become a significant phenomenon that academicians and scholars have studied. Improving the brand’s overall equity requires strategies that the brand managers must implement. Based on Marx’s theory, the present study attempts to determine the role of product perceived value on customer-based brand equity, brand resonance and customer affective commitment, respectively. Moreover, this study also tries to determine the mediating roles of brand resonance and customer affective commitment in the relationship between product perceived value and customer-based brand equity, respectively. For this purpose, the data were gathered from 310 customers of branding products in China. The present study applied partial least square structural equation modeling for empirical analyses using Smart PLS software. The present study’s findings acknowledge that product perceived value did not directly influence customer-based brand equity. However, results confirmed that product perceived value positively influences brand resonance and customer affective commitment. Furthermore, the outcomes of the present study also concluded that both brand resonance and affective commitment played a mediating role between product perceived value and customer-based brand equity, respectively. Theoretically, the study contributed to the literature by examining the influence of product perceived value on customer-based brand equity. The study also enriched the literature by providing key findings related to the mediating roles of brand resonance and customer affective commitment. Practically, the study is beneficial for the brands and they can enhance product perceived value by improving product design, effectively communicating product benefits, and executing effective promotional strategies.
Longitudinal Associations Between Household Solid Fuel Use and Handgrip Strength in Middle-Aged and Older Chinese Individuals: The China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study
Authors: Liu Yashu , Chang Qing , Xia Yang , Zhao Yuhong
Published: June 2022

Background

Household solid fuel have been associated with changes of handgrip strength (HGS). However, no study has explored the longitudinal associations between household solid fuel use and HGS. Thus, the aim of our cohort study was to investigate the longitudinal associations between household fuel use and HGS.

Methods

The study was based on the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study. A handheld dynamometer was used to measure HGS. Household fuel use statuses were collected using questionnaires. Analyses of covariance were performed to examine the associations between household fuel use and HGS.

Results

The study included 9,382 participants during a 4-year follow-up. The participants who used solid fuel for cooking had more decreases of HGS than those who used clean fuel (P < 0.0001). The least square means (95% CIs) of changes of HGS for participants who used solid fuel and those who used clean fuel for cooking were −1.67 (−2.15, −1.19) and−2.27 (−2.75, −1.79), respectively. The association between fuel use for heating and HGS was non-significant (P = 0.63). The interaction terms of sex to cooking fuel (P = 0.04) and smoking to cooking fuel (P < 0.001) were significant; men and participants who had ever smoked had higher decreases in HGS.

Conclusion

Using household solid fuel for cooking but not heating was associated with more decreases in HGS. Proper ventilation and clean fuel should be promoted for public health.
Construction and Demolition Waste Management: A Systematic Scoping Review of Risks to Occupational and Public Health
Authors: Cook Ed , Velis Costas A. , Black Leon
Published: June 2022

Despite the relatively benign characteristics of construction and demolition waste, its mismanagement can result in considerable harm to human health for 200 million workers and those who live and work in proximity to construction and demolition activities. The high number of workers classified as informal, results in a large unregulated and vulnerable workforce at a high risk of exposure to hazards. We focused a systematic scoping review (PRISMA-ScR) on evidence associating construction and demolition waste with hazards and risks in low- and middle-income countries. We reviewed more than 3,000 publications, narrowed to 49 key sources. Hazard-pathway-receptor scenarios/combinations were formulated, enabling indicative ranking and comparison of the relative harm caused to different groups. Though the evidential basis is sparse, there is a strong indication that the combustible fraction of construction and demolition waste is disposed of by open burning in many low- and middle-income countries, including increasing quantities of high chloride-content PVC; risking exposure to dioxins and related compounds. A long-standing and well-known hazard, asbestos, continues to represent a health threat throughout the world, claiming 250,000 lives per annum despite being banned in most countries. In the coming decades, it is anticipated that more than half of all deaths from asbestos will take place in India, where it is still sold. Comparatively, the highest risks from construction and demolition waste exist in low- and middle-income countries where attention to risk mitigation and control is needed.
Optimization of Vascular Supply in Free Flaps for Head and Neck Reconstruction: Analysis of a Young Team’s Experience
Authors: Iacoviello Paolo , Bacigaluppi Susanna , Callegari Simone , Rossello Carlo , Antonini Andrea , Gramegna Marco , Da Rold Mariano , Signorini Giuseppe , Verrina Giuseppe
Published: June 2022

Background

For head and neck reconstructive procedures, free flap survival depends on microsurgical and anatomical choices besides multimodal clinical management. The aim of the present study is to identify relevant variables for flap survival in our initial consecutive series.

Methods

A single-center, novel reconstructive team consecutive surgical series was revised. The outcome was analyzed in terms of flap survival observing variables considered more relevant: flap type, recipient artery, vein(s), and graft interposition were discussed for facial thirds to be reconstructed. Statistical analysis was performed with Chi-square, Mann–Whitney, and Odds ratio.

Results

A total of 118 free flaps were performed in 115 microsurgical procedures (93.9% for malignancies) on 109 patients, with a flap survival rate of 91.5%. For reconstruction of the middle and lower third of the face, the facial artery was privileged, because it was already transected during lymph node dissection in order to save the superior thyroid artery for further microsurgical needs. Flap failure was 50% venous. Double vein anastomosis was not related to flap survival. Deep venous drainage (as the internal jugular vein system) required fewer revisions. Half of the re-explorations saved the flap. Grafts were a risk for flap survival. Bony flaps were more critical.

Conclusion

At comparable reconstructive quality, flap choice should avoid a vascular graft. The facial artery is a preferable recipient vessel, since it saves other arteries both in the case of an arterial revision and in the case of recurrence, for further free flap reconstruction. For venous anastomosis, a deep venous recipient is safer, since it offers the possibility to choose the level of anastomosis optimizing the vascular pedicle geometry. A close postsurgical flap monitoring is advisable up to 7 days postoperatively to allow for timely flap salvage.
The Essence of Social Entrepreneurship through a Georgian Lens: Social Entrepreneurs’ Perspectives
Authors: Gigauri Iza , Panait Mirela , Apostu Simona Andreea , Raimi Lukman
Published: June 2022

The attention to the phenomenon of social entrepreneurship has been especially enhanced during the current turbulent times, as social enterprises have a key role to play in solving social problems caused by the pandemic. Currently, social entrepreneurship is still an undeveloped area in Georgia, but it has the potential to contribute to the country’s economy and improve the social, ecological, and economic conditions of society. This paper analyses the concept in Georgia and explores social entrepreneurship from the social entrepreneurs’ perspective. A qualitative interview method was applied to collect the data for this study, and semi-structured interviews were conducted with the seventeen Georgian social entrepreneurs from May–June 2021. The research reveals the drivers of social entrepreneurs and investigates the financial sources of social enterprises. It also discusses the practice of social entrepreneurship in terms of preventing and supportive factors while adopting the concept in transition economies, particularly in Georgia. The research demonstrated an urgent need for legislation to regulate the field of social entrepreneurship and formalize it.
Biochar Alone Did Not Increase Microbial Activity in Soils from a Temperate Climate That Had Long-Term Acidity Stress
Authors: Dvořáčková Helena , Dvořáček Jan , Záhora Jaroslav , Šimečková Jana
Published: June 2022

Biochar can increase the microbial activity of a soil and the seed yield of oilseed rape. We performed a field experiment to determine the effect of different doses of biochar and the impact of nutrient additions on microbial activity in soils with low pH (4.69). Different doses of biochar were applied to plots in 2016 (0 t/ha (control), 15 t/ha (B15), 30 t/ha (B30), or 45 t/ha (B45)), and fertilization was applied during 2019 (90 kg P/ha) and 2020 (50 kg N/ha, 80 kg P/ha, and 50 kg K/ha). Maize was grown in 2016, barley in 2017, maize in 2018, wheat in 2019, and winter oilseed rape in 2020. All analyses were carried out in 2020. Higher biochar doses led to reduced seed yield of oilseed rape and inhibition of microbial activity (cumulative soil respiration, dehydrogenase activity (DHA), and leaching of mineral forms of nitrogen). Notably, dehydrogenase activity was more than 60% lower in plots with the highest biochar dose. All doses of biochar increased the soil pH compared to the control (control: 4.51 ± 0.04, B15: 4.69 ± 0.04, B30: 5.06 ± 0.05, B45: 5.05 ± 0.04) but did not increase microbial activity or the seed yield of oilseed rape. Thus, application of biochar alone did not increase the seed yield of oilseed rape or soil microbial activities, although it did increase soil pH.
Automatic Text Summarization for Hindi Using Real Coded Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Jain Arti , Arora Anuja , Morato Jorge , Yadav Divakar , Kumar Kumar Vimal
Published: June 2022

In the present scenario, Automatic Text Summarization (ATS) is in great demand to address the ever-growing volume of text data available online to discover relevant information faster. In this research, the ATS methodology is proposed for the Hindi language using Real Coded Genetic Algorithm (RCGA) over the health corpus, available in the Kaggle dataset. The methodology comprises five phases: preprocessing, feature extraction, processing, sentence ranking, and summary generation. Rigorous experimentation on varied feature sets is performed where distinguishing features, namely- sentence similarity and named entity features are combined with others for computing the evaluation metrics. The top 14 feature combinations are evaluated through Recall-Oriented Understudy for Gisting Evaluation (ROUGE) measure. RCGA computes appropriate feature weights through strings of features, chromosomes selection, and reproduction operators: Simulating Binary Crossover and Polynomial Mutation. To extract the highest scored sentences as the corpus summary, different compression rates are tested. In comparison with existing summarization tools, the ATS extractive method gives a summary reduction of 65%.
The Role of PIXE and XRF in Heritage Science: The INFN-CHNet LABEC Experience
Authors: Sottili Leandro , Giuntini Lorenzo , Mazzinghi Anna , Massi Mirko , Carraresi Luca , Castelli Lisa , Czelusniak Caroline , Giambi Francesca , Mandò Pier Andrea , Manetti Marco , Ruberto Chiara , Guidorzi Laura , Re Alessandro , Lo Giudice Alessandro , Torres Rodrigo , Arneodo Francesco , Mangani Simi Maria Emilia , Calusi Silvia , Taccetti Francesco
Published: June 2022

Analytical techniques play a fundamental role in heritage science. Among them, Particle Induced X-ray Emission (PIXE) and X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) techniques are widely used in many laboratories for elemental composition analysis. Although they are well-established, a strong effort is put on their upgrade, making them suitable for more and more applications. Over the years, at the INFN-LABEC (the laboratory of nuclear techniques for the environment and cultural heritage of the Italian National Institute of Nuclear Physics), the INFN-CHNet group, the network devoted to cultural heritage, has carried out many technological improvements to the PIXE and XRF set-ups for the analysis of works of art and archaeological finds. Among the many, we recall here the scanning external microbeam facility at the TANDEM accelerator and the MA-XRF scanner. The two instruments have shown complementary features: the former permits quantitative analysis of elements heavier than sodium, which is not possible with the latter in most of the case studies. On the contrary, the scanner has the undeniable advantage of portability, allowing it to work in situ. In this framework of technological developments in heritage science, INFN, CERN, and OPD are jointly carrying on the MACHINA (Movable Accelerator for Cultural Heritage In-situ Non-destructive Analysis) project for on-site Ion Beam Analysis (IBA) studies on cultural heritage.
Deep Vision Multimodal Learning: Methodology, Benchmark, and Trend
Authors: Chai Wenhao , Wang Gaoang
Published: June 2022

Deep vision multimodal learning aims at combining deep visual representation learning with other modalities, such as text, sound, and data collected from other sensors. With the fast development of deep learning, vision multimodal learning has gained much interest from the community. This paper reviews the types of architectures used in multimodal learning, including feature extraction, modality aggregation, and multimodal loss functions. Then, we discuss several learning paradigms such as supervised, semi-supervised, self-supervised, and transfer learning. We also introduce several practical challenges such as missing modalities and noisy modalities. Several applications and benchmarks on vision tasks are listed to help researchers gain a deeper understanding of progress in the field. Finally, we indicate that pretraining paradigm, unified multitask framework, missing and noisy modality, and multimodal task diversity could be the future trends and challenges in the deep vision multimodal learning field. Compared with existing surveys, this paper focuses on the most recent works and provides a thorough discussion of methodology, benchmarks, and future trends.
A MIG Welding Clamping Scheme for Power Battery Enclosure’s Deformation Restrain
Authors: Xu Jun , Zuo Jiapeng , Li Gangyan
Published: June 2022

Aiming at the inward shrinkage between the frame and the bottom plate of the power battery enclosure after MIG (melt inert-gas) welding, a welding clamping scheme with hook-pull devices was designed. By adjusting the clamping force of the hook-pull device, the MIG welding deformation force was counteracted, so the inward shrinkage deformation of the frame after welding was restrained. To obtain the deformation force during the MIG welding, the welding simulation model of power battery enclosure was established. Gaussian heat source model was selected as temperature load. Through the numerical simulation and experimental analysis of the temperature field, the numerical simulation results are in good agreement with the measured thermal cycle curve in terms of temperature value and change trend. The error between numerical simulation result curve and measured thermal cycle curve at the measurement point is no more than 10%, which can meet the simulation requirements. Based on the simulation model and the load of the temperature field, deformation force curves were obtained by simulating the welding process. To counteract the MIG welding deformation force, a pneumatic servo control system of the welding clamp was designed, which can generate equal and reversed welding deformation force. The experiments show that the actual output force of the system has a tiny time delay and fluctuates with the varies of the pneumatic servo control system. The maximum fluctuation error is 6.96 N, which is within the permitted error range. The welding experiments were carried out to verify effectiveness of the control system and the welding clamp. The field results have shown that the maximum inward shrinkage deformation after welding is 0.6 mm, which is less than 1.2 mm required by the MIG welding process.
Design and Optimization of the Inlet Header Structure in Microchannel Heat Exchanger Based on Flow Distribution Uniformity
Authors: Zhang Kaidi , Wei Wei , Sun Yuwei , Wu Qiang , Tang Min , Lu Mingjian
Published: June 2022

The flow distribution in a printed circuit heat exchanger (PCHE) is of great theoretical and practical significance in the Brayton cycle power generation system. For the straight barrel inlet header PCHE, when S-CO2 flows in the PCHE, the structural types and working parameters of the inlet header and diversion zone may lead to differences in the flow distribution in each channel of the PCHE. This flow distribution difference affects the thermal hydraulic characteristics of the PCHE. A numerical simulation method was applied to explore the flow uniformity of the PCHE and the overall performance and analyze the influence of the type of straight barrel inlet header PCHE. Within each layer, the flow showed an uneven flow distribution, and the optimized inlet header was the tapered type. The results showed that when the taper angle varies from 6° to 9°, the flow distribution in each layer is relatively uniform. The comprehensive heat transfer performance of the straight-channel PCHE can be improved by 17.3–19.7%. Finally, the response surface and a genetic algorithm were combined to optimize the inlet header. The heat transfer performance of the optimized PCHE was improved by 19.7%.
Analytical Solutions to Temperature Field in Various Relative-Scale Media Subjected to a Reciprocating Motion Point Heat Source
Authors: Sheng Xin , Xu Yadong , Huang Dacheng , Zhang Jianrun , Lu Yunqiao , Lu Xi
Published: June 2022

To reveal the temperature rise evolution mechanism of isotropic media subjected to reciprocating motion constant-strength point heat source, various forms of analytical solutions are derived on the basis of differentiated relative scales, and non-dimensionalized parameters are designed to characterize the thermal distribution regularities by utilizing numerical calculations. Temperature rise curves of media subjected to a reciprocating motion point heat source allow similar quasi-steady-state characteristics to appear, which finally achieve a stable state, so that the values of surplus temperature oscillate around the constant time-average quantity. The time to reach quasi-steady state, the time-averaged quantity and the fluctuation amplitude of surplus temperature are comprehensively impacted by the dimensionless distance parameter γ, the convective heat transfer parameter ω and the velocity and travel parameter β. This work discusses influence rules of temperature evolution in various relative-scale media and further enriches the moving heat source theory.
Integration of Network Slicing and Machine Learning into Edge Networks for Low-Latency Services in 5G and beyond Systems
Authors: Domeke Afra , Cimoli Bruno , Monroy Idelfonso Tafur
Published: June 2022

Fifth-generation (5G) and beyond networks are envisioned to serve multiple emerging applications having diverse and strict quality of service (QoS) requirements. To meet ultra-reliable and low latency communication, real-time data processing and massive device connectivity demands of the new services, network slicing and edge computing, are envisioned as key enabling technologies. Network slicing will prioritize virtualized and dedicated logical networks over common physical infrastructure and encourage flexible and scalable networks. On the other hand, edge computing offers storage and computational resources at the edge of networks, hence providing real-time, high-bandwidth, low-latency access to radio network resources. As the integration of two technologies delivers network capabilities more efficiently and effectively, this paper provides a comprehensive study on edge-enabled network slicing frameworks and potential solutions with example use cases. In addition, this article further elaborated on the application of machine learning in edge-sliced networks and discussed some recent works as well as example deployment scenarios. Furthermore, to reveal the benefits of these systems further, a novel framework based on reinforcement learning for controller synchronization in distributed edge sliced networks is proposed.
Brain Natriuretic Peptide (BNP) Affects Growth and Stress Tolerance of Representatives of the Human Microbiome, Micrococcus luteus C01 and Alcaligenes faecalis DOS7
Authors: Loiko Nataliya , Kanunnikov Oleg , Gannesen Andrei , Kovalenko Vladislav , Vishnyakova Anastasia , Axelrod Vladimir , Litti Yuriy
Published: June 2022

Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) is secreted by the ventricles of the heart during overload to signal heart failure. Slight bilateral skin itching induced by BNP has been associated with response activity of the skin microbiota. In this work, we studied the effect of 25–250,000 pg BNP/mL on the growth, long-term survival, and stress (H2O2, antibiotics, salinity, heat and pH shock) resistance of human symbiont bacteria: Gram-positive Micrococcus luteus C01 and Gram-negative Alcaligenes faecalis DOS7. The effect of BNP turned out to be dose-dependent. Up to 250 pg BNP/mL made bacteria more stress resistant. At 2500 pg BNP/mL (heart failure) the thermosensitivity of the bacteria increased. Almost all considered BNP concentrations increased the resistance of bacteria to the action of tetracycline and ciprofloxacin. Both bacteria survived 1.3–1.7 times better during long-term (up to 4 months) storage. Our findings are important both for clinical medical practice and for practical application in other areas. For example, BNP can be used to obtain stress-resistant bacteria, which is important in the collection of microorganisms, as well as for the production of bacterial preparations and probiotics for cosmetology, agriculture, and waste management.
CNP, the Third Natriuretic Peptide: Its Biology and Significance to the Cardiovascular System
Authors: Nakagawa Yasuaki , Nishikimi Toshio
Published: June 2022

The natriuretic peptide family consists of three biologically active peptides: ANP, BNP, and CNP. CNP is more widely expressed than the other two peptides, with significant levels in the central nervous system, osteochondral system, and vascular system. The receptor that is mainly targeted by CNP is GC-B, which differs from GC-A, the receptor targeted by ANP and BNP. Consequently, the actions of CNP differ somewhat from those of ANP and BNP. CNP knockout leads to severe dwarfism, and there has been important research into the role of CNP in the osteochondral system. As a result, a CNP analog is now available for clinical use in patients with achondroplasia. In the cardiovascular system, CNP and its downstream signaling are involved in the regulatory mechanisms underlying myocardial remodeling, cardiac function, vascular tone, angiogenesis, and fibrosis, among others. This review focuses on the roles of CNP in the cardiovascular system and considers its potential for clinical application in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases.
High-Temperature Stress Effect on the Red Cusk-Eel (Geypterus chilensis) Liver: Transcriptional Modulation and Oxidative Stress Damage
Authors: Dettleff Phillip , Zuloaga Rodrigo , Fuentes Marcia , Gonzalez Pamela , Aedo Jorge , Estrada Juan Manuel , Molina Alfredo , Valdés Juan Antonio
Published: June 2022

Environmental stressors, such as temperature, are relevant factors that could generate a negative effect on several tissues in fish. A key fish species for Chilean aquaculture diversification is the red cusk-eel (Genypterus chilensis), a native fish for which knowledge on environmental stressors effects is limited. This study evaluated the effects of high-temperature stress on the liver of red cusk-eel in control (14 °C) and high-temperature (19 °C) groups using multiple approaches: determination of plasmatic hepatic enzymes (ALT, AST, and AP), oxidative damage evaluation (AP sites, lipid peroxidation, and carbonylated proteins), and RNA-seq analysis. High-temperature stress generated a significant increase in hepatic enzyme activity in plasma. In the liver, a transcriptional regulation was observed, with 1239 down-regulated and 1339 up-regulated transcripts. Additionally, high-temperature stress generated oxidative stress in the liver, with oxidative damage and transcriptional modulation of the antioxidant response. Furthermore, an unfolded protein response was observed, with several pathways enriched, as well as a heat shock response, with several heat shock proteins up regulated, suggesting candidate biomarkers (i.e., serpinh1) for thermal stress evaluation in this species. The present study shows that high-temperature stress generated a major effect on the liver of red cusk-eel, knowledge to consider for the aquaculture and fisheries of this species.
Growth and Nutrient Utilization in Basil Plant as Affected by Applied Nutrient Quantity in Nutrient Solution and Light Spectrum
Authors: Ren Xiaowei , Lu Na , Xu Wenshuo , Zhuang Yunfei , Tsukagoshi Satoru , Takagaki Michiko
Published: June 2022

Quantitative nutrient management has advantages, such as saving resources and improving nutrient utilization, compared with the conventional electrical conductivity management method. The growth and nutrient utilization of vegetables are affected by the integrated environmental conditions such as nutrient supply and light spectrum. This study investigated the effects of applied nutrient quantity (ANQ) (0.5, 1, 2, and 4 times (T) the absorption quantity of nutrients determined in the preliminary experiment, indicated by 0.5T, 1T, 2T, and 4T, respectively) in nutrient solution and red:blue ratio (R:B = 3:7, 7:3, and 9:1, indicated by RB3:7, RB7:3, and RB9:1, respectively) on the growth and nutrient utilization of basil plants in a plant factory with artificial lighting. Results demonstrated that the nutrient use efficiency (NUE) and the nutrient absorption efficiency (NAE) were significantly increased by the ANQ of 0.5T compared with the treatments of 1T, 2T, and 4T, irrespective of R:B ratios. Furthermore, under the ANQ of 0.5T, RB7:3 significantly increased the yield and the absorption of N and K of the basil plant compared with other R:B ratios. Therefore, the ANQ of 0.5T combined with RB7:3 was considered the optimal combination to improve the yield, NUE, and NAE of basil plants in the present study.
Impact of Ca2+-Induced PI(4,5)P2 Clusters on PH-YFP Organization and Protein-Protein Interactions
Authors: Borges-Araújo Luís , Monteiro Marina E. , Mil-Homens Dalila , Bernardes Nuno , Sarmento Maria J. , Coutinho Ana , Prieto Manuel , Fernandes Fábio
Published: June 2022

Despite its low abundance, phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PI(4,5)P2) is a key modulator of membrane-associated signaling events in eukaryotic cells. Temporal and spatial regulation of PI(4,5)P2 concentration can achieve localized increases in the levels of this lipid, which are crucial for the activation or recruitment of peripheral proteins to the plasma membrane. The recent observation of the dramatic impact of physiological divalent cation concentrations on PI(4,5)P2 clustering, suggests that protein anchoring to the plasma membrane through PI(4,5)P2 is likely not defined solely by a simple (monomeric PI(4,5)P2)/(protein bound PI(4,5)P2) equilibrium, but instead depends on complex protein interactions with PI(4,5)P2 clusters. The insertion of PI(4,5)P2-binding proteins within these clusters can putatively modulate protein–protein interactions in the membrane, but the relevance of such effects is largely unknown. In this work, we characterized the impact of Ca2+ on the organization and protein–protein interactions of PI(4,5)P2-binding proteins. We show that, in giant unilamellar vesicles presenting PI(4,5)P2, the membrane diffusion properties of pleckstrin homology (PH) domains tagged with a yellow fluorescent protein (YFP) are affected by the presence of Ca2+, suggesting direct interactions between the protein and PI(4,5)P2 clusters. Importantly, PH-YFP is found to dimerize in the membrane in the absence of Ca2+. This oligomerization is inhibited in the presence of physiological concentrations of the divalent cation. These results confirm that cation-dependent PI(4,5)P2 clustering promotes interactions between PI(4,5)P2-binding proteins and has the potential to dramatically influence the organization and downstream interactions of PI(4,5)P2-binding proteins in the plasma membrane.
Fabricated Components Hoisting Activity Recognition and Collision Analysis Based on Inertial Measurement Unit IMU
Authors: Wang Chen , Yu Liangcheng , Kassem Mukhtar A. , Yap Jeffrey Boon Hui , Wang Mengyi , Ali Kherun Nita
Published: June 2022

The prefabricated components are an important aspect of prefabricated constructions. Based on three possible collision situations when the fabricated component is being lifted during the installation phase, the aim of this study is to investigate how to prevent effective collision between the hoist and the barrier, and establish the standardized operation process (SOP) of using the Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) to detect the hoisting collision of fabricated building components. The (IMU) technology is used in the collection of lifting activities data. The hoisting activity will be divided into four situations: classification and recognition of stationary, ascending, advancing, and descending of components; use of the K-Nearest Neighbor (KNN) algorithm and the Random Forest (RF) algorithm for data processing to recognize the hoisting activities of assembled components; construction of the hoisting activity recognition model; determination of the best recognition position of the IMU; further collision analysis based on the recognition of the hoisting of assembled components. The collision is divided into direct collision, sudden stop, and detour in a specific space from obstacles. Image analysis of the three types of collision activities will be carried out to help perceive lifting activities in advance and reduce loss resulting from collisions caused by components. According to the systematic research and discussion of hoisting activity recognition and collision behavior, it provides a reasonable basis and ideas for solving hoisting collisions in prefabricated buildings and aids in the use of inertial sensors in construction to provide assistance for construction automation.
NF2 Alteration/22q Loss Is Associated with Recurrence in WHO Grade 1 Sphenoid Wing Meningiomas
Authors: Sakai Yu , Miyawaki Satoru , Teranishi Yu , Okano Atsushi , Ohara Kenta , Hongo Hiroki , Ishigami Daiichiro , Shimada Daisuke , Mitsui Jun , Nakatomi Hirofumi , Saito Nobuhito
Published: June 2022

Sphenoid wing meningiomas account for 11–20% of all intracranial meningiomas and have a higher recurrence rate than those at other sites. Recent molecular biological analyses of meningiomas have proposed new subgroups; however, the correlation between genetic background and recurrence in sphenoid wing meningiomas has not yet been fully elucidated. In this study, we evaluated the clinical characteristics, pathological diagnosis, and molecular background of 47 patients with sphenoid wing meningiomas. Variants of NF2, AKT1, KLF4, SMO, POLR2A, PIK3CA, TRAF7, and TERT were determined using Sanger sequencing, and 22q loss was detected using multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification. Alterations were localized at NF2 in 11 cases, had other genotypes in 17 cases, and were not detected in 12 cases. Interestingly, WHO grade 1 meningiomas with NF2 alteration/22q loss (p = 0.008) and a MIB-1 labeling index > 4 (p = 0.03) were associated with a significantly shorter recurrence-free survival, and multivariate analysis revealed that NF2 alteration/22q loss was associated with recurrence (hazard ratio, 13.1). The duration of recurrence was significantly shorter for meningiomas with NF2 alteration/22q loss (p = 0.0007) even if gross-total resection was achieved. Together, these findings suggest that NF2 alteration/22q loss is associated with recurrence in WHO grade 1 sphenoid wing meningiomas.
Novel Treatments of Uveal Melanoma Identified with a Synthetic Lethal CRISPR/Cas9 Screen
Authors: Glinkina Kseniya , Groenewoud Arwin , Teunisse Amina F. A. S. , Snaar-Jagalska B. Ewa , Jochemsen Aart G.
Published: June 2022

Currently, no systemic treatment is approved as the standard of care for metastatic uveal melanoma (UM). mTOR has been evaluated as a drug target in UM. However, one of the main limitations is dose reduction due to adverse effects. The combination of everolimus with another targeted agent would allow the reduction of the dose of a single drug, thus widening the therapeutic window. In our study, we aimed to identify a synergistic combination with everolimus in order to develop a novel treatment option for metastatic UM. We exploited CRISPR-Cas9 synthetic lethality screening technology to search for an efficient combination. IGF1R and PRKDC and several other genes were identified as hits in the screen. We investigated the effect of the combination of everolimus with the inhibitors targeting IGF1R and DNA-PKcs on the survival of UM cell lines. These combinations synergistically slowed down cell growth but did not induce apoptosis in UM cell lines. These combinations were tested on PDX UM in an in vivo model, but we could not detect tumor regression. However, we could find significant activity of the dual DNA-PKcs/mTOR inhibitor CC-115 on PDX UM in the in vivo model.
A Retrospective Study Assessing the Outcomes of Immediate Prepectoral and Subpectoral Implant and Mesh-Based Breast Reconstruction
Authors: Wow Thomas , Kolacinska-Wow Agnieszka , Wichtowski Mateusz , Boguszewska-Byczkiewicz Katarzyna , Nowicka Zuzanna , Ploszka Katarzyna , Pieszko Karolina , Murawa Dawid
Published: June 2022

(1) Introduction: In response to patient concerns about breast cancer recurrence, increased use of breast magnetic resonance imaging and genetic testing, and advancements in breast reconstruction techniques, mastectomy rates have been observed to rise over the last decade. The aim of the study is to compare the outcomes of prepectoral and subpectoral implants and long-term, dual-stage resorbable mesh-based breast reconstructions in mutation carriers (prophylactic surgery) and breast cancer patients. (2) Patients and methods: This retrospective, two-center study included 170 consecutive patients after 232 procedures: Prepectoral surgery was performed in 156 cases and subpectoral was performed in 76. (3) Results: Preoperative chemotherapy was associated with more frequent minor late complications (p < 0.001), but not major ones (p = 0.101), while postoperative chemotherapy was related to more frequent serious (p = 0.005) postoperative complications. Postoperative radiotherapy was associated with a higher rate of minor complications (31.03%) than no-radiotherapy (12.21%; p < 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression found complications to be significantly associated with an expander (OR = 4.43), skin-reducing mastectomy (OR = 9.97), therapeutic mastectomy vs. risk-reducing mastectomy (OR = 4.08), and postoperative chemotherapy (OR = 12.89). Patients in whom prepectoral surgeries were performed demonstrated significantly shorter median hospitalization time (p < 0.001) and lower minor complication rates (5.77% vs. 26.32% p < 0.001), but similar major late complication rates (p = 0.915). (4) Conclusions: Implant-based breast reconstruction with the use of long-term, dual-stage resorbable, synthetic mesh is a safe and effective method of breast restoration, associated with low morbidity and good cosmesis. Nevertheless, prospective, multicenter, and long-term outcome data studies are needed to further evaluate the benefits of such treatments.
Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy in Diagnosis and Follow-Up of Gliomas: State-of-the-Art
Authors: Galijasevic Malik , Steiger Ruth , Mangesius Stephanie , Mangesius Julian , Kerschbaumer Johannes , Freyschlag Christian Franz , Gruber Nadja , Janjic Tanja , Gizewski Elke Ruth , Grams Astrid Ellen
Published: June 2022

Preoperative grade prediction is important in diagnostics of glioma. Even more important can be follow-up after chemotherapy and radiotherapy of high grade gliomas. In this review we provide an overview of MR-spectroscopy (MRS), technical aspects, and different clinical scenarios in the diagnostics and follow-up of gliomas in pediatric and adult populations. Furthermore, we provide a recap of the current research utility and possible future strategies regarding proton- and phosphorous-MRS in glioma research.
Depth of Response to Intensive Chemotherapy Has Significant Prognostic Value among Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) Patients Undergoing Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem-Cell Transplantation with Intermediate or Adverse Risk at Diagnosis Compared to At-Risk Group According to European Leukemia Net 2017 Risk Stratification
Authors: Kim Tong-Yoon , Park Silvia , Kwag Daehun , Lee Jong-Hyuk , Lee Joonyeop , Min Gi-June , Park Sung-Soo , Jeon Young-Woo , Shin Seung-Hawn , Yahng Seung-Ah , Yoon Jae-Ho , Lee Sung-Eun , Cho Byung-Sik , Eom Ki-Seong , Kim Yoo-Jin , Lee Seok , Min Chang-Ki , Cho Seok-Goo , Lee Jong-Wook , Kim Hee-Je
Published: June 2022

We evaluated the prognostic efficiency of the European Leukemia Net (ELN) 2017 criteria on the post-transplant outcomes of 174 patients with intermediate (INT; n = 108, 62%) or adverse (ADV) risk (n = 66, 38%) of acute myeloid leukemia; these patients had received the first allogeneic hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation (HSCT) at remission. After a median follow-up period of 18 months, the 2 year OS, RFS, and CIR after HSCT were estimated to be 58.6% vs. 64.4% (p = 0.299), 50.5% vs. 53.7% (p = 0.533), and 26.9% vs. 36.9% (p = 0.060) in the INT and ADV risk groups, respectively. Compared to the ELN 2017 stratification, pre-HSCT WT1 levels (cutoff: 250 copies/104 ABL) more effectively segregated the post-HSCT outcomes of INT risk patients compared to ADV risk patients regarding their 2 year OS (64.2% vs. 51.5%, p = 0.099), RFS (59.4% vs. 32.4%, p = 0.003), and CIR (18.9% vs. 60.0% p < 0.001). Indeed, high WT1 levels were more prominent in INT risk patients than in ADV risk patients. Notably, FLT3-ITD had the greatest impact on post-HSCT outcomes among all the ELN 2017 criteria components; patients in the FLT3-ITD mutant subgroups exhibited the worst outcomes regardless of their allelic ratios or NPM1 status compared to the pre-HSCT WT1 level of other INT and ADV risk patients.
Soot Oxidation over γ-Al2O3-Supported Manganese-Based Binary Catalyst in a Dielectric Barrier Discharge Reactor
Authors: Zhu Xinbo , Wu Xiqiang , Liu Jin , Luo Jianbin , Yang Zhengda , Jiang Ye , Chen Geng
Published: June 2022

In this work, soot oxidation was conducted over a series of Mn-X/γ-Al2O3 (M = Ce, Co and Cu) binary catalysts in a dielectric barrier discharge reactor. The soot conversion in the plasma–catalytic system was in the order of Mn/γ-Al2O3 (57.7%) > Mn-Co/γ-Al2O3 (53.9%) > Mn-Ce/γ-Al2O3 (51.6%) > Mn-Cu/γ-Al2O3 (47.7%) during the 30 min soot oxidation process at 14 W and 150 °C. Meanwhile, the doping of Ce, Co and Cu slightly improved the CO2 selectivity of the process by 4.7% to 10.3% compared to soot oxidation over Mn/γ-Al2O3.It is worth to note that the order of CO2 selectivity was in the opposite order with soot oxidation rate. The effects of discharge power, oxygen content in the carrier gas and reaction temperature on plasma–catalytic soot oxidation was systematically analyzed. The catalyst characterizations, including N2 adsorption–desorption, X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, temperature-programmed reduction by H2 and temperature-programmed desorption of O2, were conducted to illustrate the reaction mechanisms of plasma–catalytic soot oxidation and reaction pathways.
Regulation of Cellular Ribonucleoprotein Granules: From Assembly to Degradation via Post-translational Modification
Authors: Jeon Pureum , Ham Hyun-Ji , Park Semin , Lee Jin-A
Published: June 2022

Cells possess membraneless ribonucleoprotein (RNP) granules, including stress granules, processing bodies, Cajal bodies, or paraspeckles, that play physiological or pathological roles. RNP granules contain RNA and numerous RNA-binding proteins, transiently formed through the liquid–liquid phase separation. The assembly or disassembly of numerous RNP granules is strongly controlled to maintain their homeostasis and perform their cellular functions properly. Normal RNA granules are reversibly assembled, whereas abnormal RNP granules accumulate and associate with various neurodegenerative diseases. This review summarizes current studies on the physiological or pathological roles of post-translational modifications of various cellular RNP granules and discusses the therapeutic methods in curing diseases related to abnormal RNP granules by autophagy.
Correlation between Cancer Stem Cells, Inflammation and Malignant Transformation in a DEN-Induced Model of Hepatic Carcinogenesis
Authors: Wu Chun-Chieh , Lin Chien-Ju , Kuo Kong-Kai , Chen Wan-Tzu , Ker Chen-Guo , Chai Chee-Yin , Tsai Hung-Pei , Yang Sheau-Fang
Published: June 2022

Chronic inflammation and cancer stem cells are known risk factors for tumorigenesis. The aetiology of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) involves a multistep pathological process that is characterised by chronic inflammation and hepatocyte damage, but the correlation between HCC, inflammation and cancer stem cells remains unclear. In this study, we examined the role of hepatic progenitor cells in a mouse model of chemical-induced hepatocarcinogenesis to elucidate the relationship between inflammation, malignant transformation and cancer stem cells. We used diethylnitrosamine (DEN) to induce liver tumour and scored for H&E and reticulin staining. We also scored for immunohistochemistry staining for OV-6 expression and analysed the statistical correlation between them. DEN progressively induced inflammation at week 7 (40%, 2/5); week 27 (75%, 6/8); week 33 (62.5%, 5/8); and week 50 (100%, 12/12). DEN progressively induced malignant transformation at week 7 (0%, 0/5); week 27 (87.5%, 7/8); week 33 (100%, 8/8); and week 50 (100%, 12/12). The obtained data showed that DEN progressively induced high-levels of OV-6 expression at week 7 (20%, 1/5); week 27 (37.5%, 3/8); week 33 (50%, 4/8); and week 50 (100%, 12/12). DEN-induced inflammation, malignant transformation and high-level OV-6 expression in hamster liver, as shown above, as well as applying Spearman’s correlation to the data showed that the expression of OV-6 was significantly correlated to inflammation (p = 0.001) and malignant transformation (p < 0.001). There was a significant correlation between the number of cancer stem cells, inflammation and malignant transformation in a DEN-induced model of hepatic carcinogenesis in the hamster.
Anti-CK7/CK20 Immunohistochemistry Did Not Associate with the Metastatic Site in TTF-1-Negative Lung Cancer
Authors: Court Alice , Laville David , Dagher Sami , Grosjean Vincent , Dal-Col Pierre , Yvorel Violaine , Casteillo François , Bayle-Bleuez Sophie , Vergnon Jean-Michel , Forest Fabien
Published: June 2022

Anti-CK7 and anti-CK20 immunohistochemistry is sometimes used to establish a diagnosis of primary lung cancer. We performed a retrospective study on the value of anti-CK7 and anti-CK20 immunohistochemistry in 359 biopsies of patients with suspected lung carcinoma in order to assess the usefulness of these antibodies in the evaluation of lung tumors in biopsies. Our results showed TTF-1 positivity in 73.3% of patients. EGFR mutations and ALK rearrangements were significantly different between TTF-1 positive and TTF-1 negative tumors (p < 0.001 and p = 0.023, respectively). Our results show a significant difference (p < 0.001) between TTF-1 positive and TTF-1 negative carcinomas with a median survival of 21.97 months (CI95% = 17.48–30.9 months) and 6.52 months (CI95% = 3.34–10.3 months), respectively. In the group of TTF-1 negative patients, anti-CK7 and CK20 immunohistochemistry was performed in 70 patients and showed CK7+/CK20- staining in 61 patients (87.1%), CK7-/CK20- in 4 patients (5.7%), CK7+/CK20+ in 3 patients (4.3%), and CK7-/CK20- in 2 patients (2.8%). No specific or molecular pattern was found in these groups of CK7/CK20 combinations. In total, this work brings arguments concerning the uselessness of anti-CK7/CK20 immunohistochemistry in the case of suspicion of primary lung cancer in biopsies.
VEXAS Syndrome: A Novelty in MDS Landscape
Authors: Templé Marie , Kosmider Olivier
Published: June 2022

Fever, inflammation and vacuoles in hematopoietic cells represent the main features associated with VEXAS syndrome, a new prototype of autoinflammatory disorders genetically characterized by somatic mutation of the UBA1 gene which encodes the enzyme1-activating enzyme (E1) required for ubiquitin signaling. Described very recently, patients with VEXAS syndrome present a systemic autoinflammatory syndrome associated with hematological impairments, especially cytopenias whose pathophysiology is mainly non-elucidated. Initially diagnosed in elderly male patients, VEXAS syndrome was frequently associated with a diagnosis of myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) leading the medical community to first consider VEXAS syndrome as a new subtype of MDS. However, since the first description of VEXAS patients in 2021, it appears from the multitude of case reports that MDS associated with VEXAS are different from the classically described MDS.