bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Milk protein ingestion does not enhance recovery from muscle-damaging resistance exercise in untrained males and females: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Pearson Alice G. , Macnaughton Lindsay S. , Hind Karen
Published: February 2023

Milk-based proteins are a common choice of post-exercise nutrition to enhance exercise recovery and adaptation. Peri-exercise milk protein ingestion may attenuate exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD), which is a particular risk to untrained individuals. However, most research has been conducted with males, and due to potential sex differences in EIMD, research with both sexes is required. This parallel-group randomized controlled trial examined the impact of milk protein ingestion on recovery from EIMD. Untrained males and females performed a single bout of leg-based resistance exercise and consumed a milk protein (MILK-PRO: n = 4 males, n = 8 females) or isoenergetic control (CON: n = 4 males, n = 8 females) supplement over 4 days post-exercise (17 doses total). Maximum strength was assessed ≥3 wk pre- and 72 and 168 h post-exercise, and measures of leg circumference, range of motion, muscle soreness, pressure-pain threshold (PPT), and serum creatine kinase concentration ([CK]) were conducted pre-, immediately post-, and 24, 48, 72, and 168 h post-exercise. Resistance exercise induced mild muscle damage that was not attenuated with MILK-PRO relative to CON. Peak increases in [CK] and reductions in PPT were greater in males compared with females. Changes in other markers were comparable between sexes. We conclude that moderate resistance exercise in naïve individuals induces muscle damage without compromising muscle strength. We support sex differences in EIMD and emphasize the need for further research with both sexes. Milk protein ingestion was not beneficial for recovery from EIMD, thus alternative management strategies should be investigated. This trial was prospectively registered at ClinicalTrials.gov PRS (protocol ID: 290580A).
Lower bound on the time-to-mass ratio of closed circular motions around spinning and charged naked singularities
Authors: Hod Shahar
Published: February 2023

It has recently been conjectured that circular trajectories (geodesic as well as non-geodesic) around central compact objects are characterized by the time-to-mass universal lower bound $$T_{\infty }/M>{{\mathcal {C}}}$$

T
∞

/
M
>
C

, where $$\{T_{\infty },M\}$$

{

T
∞

,
M
}

are respectively the orbital period as measured by flat-space asymptotic observers and the mass of the central compact object, and $$\mathcal{C}=O(1)$$

C
=
O
(
1
)

is a dimensionless constant of order unity. In the present paper we prove that this dimensionless bound is respected by circular orbits around central naked singularities. Intriguingly, it is explicitly proved that the orbital-time-to-mass ratio $$T_{\infty }/M$$

T
∞

/
M

around a central super-spinning singularity remains finite even in the $$r\rightarrow 0$$

r
→
0

limit of circular orbits with infinitesimally small radial coordinates (which are characterized by a diverging time-to-radius ratio, $$T_{\infty }/r\rightarrow \infty $$

T
∞

/
r
→
∞

). In particular, we reveal the fact that the shortest orbital period around a super-spinning naked singularity is given by the dimensionless relation $$T_{\infty }/M=2\pi $$

T
∞

/
M
=
2
π

. In addition, we explore the functional behavior of the time-to-mass ratio of circular trajectories around super-charged (non-vacuum) naked singularities and prove that the dimensionless ratio $$T_{\infty }/M(r)$$

T
∞

/
M

(
r
)

is bounded from below, where M(r) is the gravitational mass contained within the orbital radius of the test particle.
Warm $$\beta $$-exponential inflation and the swampland conjectures
Authors: Santos F. B. M. dos , Silva R. , Costa S. Santos da , Benetti M. , Alcaniz J. S.
Published: February 2023

We investigate theoretical and observational aspects of a warm inflation scenario driven by the $$\beta $$
β
-exponential potential, which generalizes the well-known power law inflation. In such a scenario, the decay of the inflaton field into radiation happens during the inflationary phase. In our study, we consider a dissipation coefficient ($$\varGamma $$
Γ
) with cubic dependence on the temperature (T) and investigate the consequences in the inflationary dynamics, focusing on the impact on the spectral index $$n_s$$

n
s

, its running $$n_{run}$$

n

run

and tensor-to-scalar ratio r. We find it possible to realize inflation in agreement with current cosmic microwave background data in weak and strong dissipation regimes. We also investigate theoretical aspects of the model in light of the swampland conjectures, as warm inflation in the strong dissipation regime has been known as a way to satisfy the three conditions currently discussed in the literature. We find that when $$\varGamma \propto T^3$$

Γ
∝

T
3

, the $$\beta $$
β
-exponential model can be accommodated into the conjectures.
Reparametric Sampling for Small Object Image Recognition
Authors: Hua Qiang , Li Pan , Zhang Jiashuai , Zhang Feng , Dong Chunru
Published: February 2023

It is difficult to balance detection speed and detection accuracy in current methods for sampling on feature maps. We combine the parameterless interpolation algorithm used in the traditional method with the algorithm in deep learning to improve shortcomings of the traditional interpolation algorithm by introducing learnable parameters into the algorithm. The new algorithm guarantees the features of the original image by calculating the correlation between feature map channels and pixels to ensure the correct restoration of the image features during up-sampling. In this paper, we propose a new up-sampling operation model — Reparametric Blend Up-sampling (RBU), which uses the method of rearranging pixels to obtain a feature map that matches the up-sampling size, uses blending to compute inter-pixel and inter-channel correlations and back-propagates the model to learn the appropriate parameters to ensure feature extraction. In the field of object detection, this model replaces the original up-sampling operation and improves the mAP mean value by 1.1% and the detection of small target objects by 3.1% in the VOC dataset with the richest application scenarios.
Convective heat transference of non-Newtonian functional phase variation nano-encapsulated liquids
Authors: Ali Farooq H. , Hamzah Hameed K. , Ahmed Saba Y. , Ismael Muneer A. , Haddad Zoubida , Ghalambaz Mohammad , Abed Azher M. , Al-Farhany Khaled , Jamshed Wasim , Eid Mohamed R.
Published: February 2023

Convective flowing and heat transference of non-Newtonian liquid comprising nano-encapsulated phase-changing material (NEPCM) suspensions, filled in a square cavity, is numerically investigated. The molecules of NEPCM are cored with n-octadecane, shelled by polymethyl-methacrylate, and suspended in non-Newtonian fluid. The enclosure is insulated horizontally and heated vertically. Finite element method (FEM) is implemented for the numerical solution under different variables such as nanoparticles volume fraction ([Formula: see text]), Stefan number ([Formula: see text]), the heat capacity ratio ([Formula: see text]) of about (0.4), the temperature of fusion of the NEPCM ([Formula: see text]) and the density ratio ([Formula: see text]) ([Formula: see text]). The results show that the Nusselt quantity is related to the fusion temperature. An improvement in heat transference is observed when the fusion temperature deviates from the wall temperature, which is in the range of [Formula: see text]. For all power law index values (n), a linear increase of the Nusselt number with the solid volume fraction is detected. The shear-thinning nanofluid ([Formula: see text]) demonstrates higher Nusselt number values than those of [Formula: see text] and 1.4.
Studying the shape of nickel particles when machining by ultrasound-aided electric discharge
Authors: Dung Nguyen Tien
Published: February 2023

This paper presents a model for producing nano-microparticles by ultrasound-aided electric discharge. After machining, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to check the shape and size of the nickel particles; they were found to be distributed in a few micrometers to 80 [Formula: see text]m range. The nickel particles were regular spherical shaped, and the grain sizes of the particles were different. In addition, many small particles were attached to the surface. Various methods such as inlay polishing, nitric acid etching, and direct SEM imaging were employed to determine the hollow nickel particles such as very thin particles, large thickness grains, hollow sponge-like structures, and solid particles.
Heegaard presentations and Milnor pairings of some knots
Authors: Ohkura Takumi
Published: February 2023

We develop a procedure for computing Heegaard presentations of some knot groups, and give many examples. We introduce pseudo-Pretzel knots, and give their Heegaard presentations. As an application, we give matrix presentations of Milnor pairings of all non-fibered knots with crossing number [Formula: see text].
Distortion of extra dimensions in the inflationary multiverse
Authors: Rubin Sergey G. , Fabris Júlio C.
Published: February 2023

The observable inflation is a final step in a slow evolution of our space. The latter occurs starting from the Planck scale, so that eventually a huge number of causally disconnected regions of space (pocket universes) will appear. The Multiverse thus formed consists of similar universes and, therefore, does not fulfill its mission. Here, we discuss the way to improve the situation. We study the effect of the quantum fluctuations at high energies on the shape of compact extra dimensions which turn out to be specific to each pocket universe. Low-energy physical parameters depend on extra dimensional metric. Therefore, the low-energy physics is different in different pocket universes. The numerical estimation of the probability of finding a particular metric is based on the model of compact two-dimensional extra space.
Feedback-Optimizing Heuristic Model Predictive Control Applied to a Wind Turbine for Suppressing the Tower Vibrations
Authors: Sharifi Alireza , Asghari Javad
Published: February 2023

To have accurate control of a wind turbine, especially when facing wind loads, it is vital to model the dynamic behavior of the system accurately and select the controller parameters properly. To mitigate these challenges, here, an optimal model-based controller is utilized using particle swarm optimization to suppress the vibrations of the tower for an NREL 5 MW turbine in the presence of the turbulence wind. For this purpose, first, a discrete state-space model is derived for the wind turbine based on the finite difference method, and the validity of the model structure is verified with its analytical solution. Then, the structure of a model predictive controller is implemented on the model of the wind turbine with optimization of the plant behavior, extracted from state-space form, in a prediction horizon. Next, to prevent the dependence of the proposed controller structure on its parameters, a number of training scenarios including the turbulent wind with different intensities are run in parallel. The cost of each scenario is continually updated based on the tracking error, the control effort and the control command generation time in total run time. Consequently, the best parameters of the controller are adjusted using a stochastic robust optimization algorithm such as particle swarm optimization. Results demonstrate that the proposed approach has an excellent performance in dissipating the tower vibration.
Seismic Evaluation Approaches for Spent Fuel Pool Structures in Nuclear Power Plants
Authors: Hsu Wei-Hung , Chai Juin-Fu , Lin Fan-Ru
Published: February 2023

The United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission issued requests for licensees to re-evaluate the seismic hazards at their sites after the accident at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant in Japan on March 11 in 2011 and to identify and address any site-specific vulnerabilities associated with seismic hazards. The primary guidance for performing those evaluations is provided in the Electric Power Research Institute EPRI-1025287 report, which also provides guidance for evaluating spent fuel pool (SFP) integrity. In addition, the EPRI-3002009564 report also provides evaluation approaches regarding the effects of seismic ground motions on SFPs that supplement the guidance provided in EPRI-1025287. SFP integrity has become increasingly important for active and decommissioned nuclear power plants. According to EPRI-1025287, the SFP integrity evaluation emphasizes failure modes of the SFP that could result in “rapid drain-down.” The definition of “rapid drain-down” is a failure that could lead to the uncovering of irradiated fuel stored in the SFP within 72[Formula: see text]h of an earthquake. Possible failures can be classified into two categories: failures relevant to the SFP structure and failures relevant to non-structural elements. This paper aims to study the approaches of implementing seismic evaluation of an SFP structure. EPRI-3002009564 provides separate seismic evaluation approaches for plants with a ground motion response spectrum (GMRS) peak [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]g and for plants with a GMRS peak [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]g. Structural dynamic analysis is also a common approach for implementing seismic evaluation if a detailed finite element model is available. In this paper, a sample SFP structure was evaluated using the two approaches, structural dynamic analysis and structural analysis criteria. The results indicate that shear failure controlled the failure mode of the SFP structure for both approaches. This shows that the two approaches drew the same conclusion regarding the failure mode. Furthermore, a smaller seismic margin was obtained using the structural analysis criteria, which means this evaluative approach is more conservative.
Fake News Detection Using Feature Extraction, Natural Language Processing, Curriculum Learning, and Deep Learning
Authors: Madani Mirmorsal , Motameni Homayun , Roshani Reza
Published: February 2023

Following the advancement of the internet, social media gradually replaced the traditional media; consequently, the overwhelming and ever-growing process of fake news generation and propagation has now become a widespread concern. It is undoubtedly necessary to detect such news; however, there are certain challenges such as events, verification and datasets, and reference datasets related to this area face various issues such as the lack of sufficient information about news samples, the absence of subject diversity, etc. To mitigate these issues, this paper proposes a two-phase model using natural language processing and machine learning algorithms. In the first phase, two new structural features, along with other key features are extracted from news samples. In the second phase, a hybrid method based on curriculum strategy, consisting of statistical data, and a [Formula: see text]-nearest neighbor algorithm is introduced to improve the performance of deep learning models. The obtained results indicated the higher performance of the proposed model in detecting fake news, compared to benchmark models.
Quantum double models coupled to matter fields: A detailed review for a dualization procedure
Authors: Araujo de Resende M. F. , Ibieta Jimenez J. P. , Lorca Espiro J.
Published: February 2023

In this paper, we investigate how it is possible to define a new class of lattice gauge models based on a dualization procedure of a previous generalization of the Kitaev Quantum Double Models. In the case of this previous generalization that will be used as a basis, it was defined by adding new qudits (which were denoted as matter fields in reference to some works) to the lattice vertices with the intention of, for instance, interpreting its models as Kitaev Quantum Double Models coupled with Potts ones. Now, with regard to the generalization that we investigate here, which we want to define as the dual of this previous one, these new qudits were added to the lattice faces. And as the coupling between gauge and matter qudits of the previous generalization was performed by a gauge group action, we show that the dual behavior of these two generalizations was achieved by coupling these same qudits in the second one through a gauge group co-action homomorphism. One of the most striking dual aspects of these two generalizations is that, in both, part of the quasiparticles that were inherited from the Kitaev Quantum Double Models become confined when these action and co-action are nontrivial. But the big news here is that, in addition to the group homomorphism (that defines this gauge group co-action) allows us to classify all the different models of this second generalization, this same group homomorphism also suggests that all these models can be interpreted as two-dimensional restrictions of the 2-lattice gauge theories.
Market efficiency of energy ETFs: Evidence from USO and UGA
Authors: Metghalchi Massoud , Cloninger Peggy , Niroomand Farhang
Published: February 2023

In this paper, we apply an updated Coppock trading rule and four trading strategies to two energy ETFs, United States Oil (USO) and United States Gasoline Fund (UGA), using weekly data from 2006 to 2022. Our four trading strategies are designed for different levels of risk tolerance. Strategy 1 is for low risk tolerance investors, strategy 2 for medium risk tolerance investors, and strategies 3 and 4 are for high-risk tolerance investors. For each ETF, we compare the performance of buying and holding this ETF (B&H strategy) to the performance of our trading rule for that ETF. We find our trading rules significantly outperforms the B&H strategy. Traders with low, medium, and high-risk tolerance can use our trading rule with combination of four recommended strategies and obtain an improved risk-return tradeoff than the B&H strategy. Further, our results are robust when we apply our trading system to two equal sub-periods for each ETF.
Using an Interpretable Machine Learning Model to Predict Corifollitropin Alfa Protocol
Authors: Lai Hsing-Hua , Kuo Esther En-Shu , Li Ryh-Sheng , Chuang Tzu-Hsuan , Huang Yao-Cheng , Hsieh Jhih-Yuan , Chang T. Arthur , Huang Yulun , Hsieh Wen-Ting , Su Yan-Ru , Liu Mark
Published: February 2023

Background: To demonstrate an interpretable machine learning (ML) model for a clinical prediction of corifollitropin alfa protocol.

Methods: The retrospective study involved 1,221 cycles from 1,180 patients undergoing corifollitropin alfa protocol with oocyte retrieval events from a single in vitro fertilization (IVF) center. The ML models were assigned to the following tasks, which are the dosage of corifollitropin alfa, trigger type, the dosage of recombinant FSH (rFSH), the dosage of recombinant LH (rLH), the duration between the follow-up visit (FUV), and oocyte retrieval. Interpretable SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) were selected to analyze the input features. The ranking of the prediction powers from each input feature reveals the level of contribution to the model.

Result(s): Two series of interpretable ML models were developed to predict classification tasks and regression tasks. The areas under ROC (AUC) for predicting the dosage of corifollitropin alfa and trigger type were 0.933 ([Formula: see text] CI 0.907–0.958) and 0.891 ([Formula: see text] CI 0.864–0.918), while accuracies were 0.944 and 0.904. The mean absolute errors (MAEs) that predict the dosage of rFSH, the dosage of rLH, and the duration between the FUV and oocyte retrieval were 97.08 IU (rFSH), 105.61 IU (rLH), and 0.45 days.

Conclusions: The study demonstrates a set of interpretable ML models predicting tasks involved in corifollitropin alfa protocol. The potential for the clinical application is to provide consistency in corifollitropin protocol adjustments.
Examining the User Evaluation of Multi-List Recommender Interfaces in the Context of Healthy Recipe Choices
Authors: Starke Alain D. , Asotic Edis , Trattner Christoph , Van Loo Ellen J.
Published: February 2023

Multi-list recommender systems have become widespread in entertainment and e-commerce applications. Yet, extensive user evaluation research is missing. Since most content is optimized toward a user’s current preferences, this may be problematic in recommender domains that involve behavioral change, such as food recommender systems for healthier food intake. We investigate the merits of multi-list recommendation in the context of internet-sourced recipes. We compile lists that adhere to varying food goals in a multi-list interface, examining whether multi-list interfaces and personalized explanations support healthier food choices. We examine the user evaluation (i.e., diversity, understandability, choice difficulty and satisfaction) of a multi-list recommender interface, linking choice behavior to evaluation aspects through the user experience framework.

We present two studies, based on (1) similar-item retrieval and (2) knowledge-based recommendation. Study 1 (
N
= 366) compared single-list (5 recipes) and multi-list recommenders (25 recipes; presented with or without explanations). Study 2 (
N
= 164) compared single-list and multi-list food recommenders with similar set sizes and varied whether presented explanations were personalized. Multi-list interfaces were perceived as more diverse and understandable than single-list interfaces, while results for choice difficulty and satisfaction were mixed. Moreover, multi-list interfaces triggered changes in food choices, which tended to be unhealthier, but also more goal based.
Generative Adversarial Networks for Cyber Threat Hunting in Ethereum Blockchain
Authors: Rabieinejad Elnaz , Yazdinejad Abbas , Parizi Reza M. , Dehghantanha Ali
Published: February 2023

Ethereum blockchain has shown great potential in providing the next generation of the decentralized platform beyond crypto payments. Recently, it has attracted researchers and industry players to experiment with developing various Web3 applications for the Internet of Things (IoT), Defi, Metaverse, and many more. Although Ethereum provides a secure platform for developing decentralized applications, it is not immune to security risks and has been a victim of numerous cyber attacks. Adversarial attacks are a new cyber threat to systems that have been rising. Adversarial attacks can disrupt and exploit decentralized applications running on the Ethereum platform by creating fake accounts and transactions. Detecting adversarial attacks is challenging because the fake materials (e.g., accounts and transactions) as malicious payloads are similar to benign data. This article proposes a model using Generative Adversarial Networks (GAN) and Deep Recurrent Neural Networks (RNN) for cyber threat hunting in the Ethereum blockchain. Firstly, we employ GAN to generate fake transactions using genuine Ethereum transactions as the first phase of the proposed model. Then in the second phase, we utilize bi-directional Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) to identify adversarial transactions in a hunting exercise. The results of the first phase evaluation show that the GAN can generate transactions identical to the actual Ethereum transactions with an accuracy of 82.51%. Also, the results of the second phase show 99.98% accuracy in identifying adversarial transactions.
Binder-free Ruthenium Oxide/MXene/Carbon Nanofiber Ternary Composite Electrode for Supercapacitors
Authors: Donthula Kiran , Vooradi Ramsagar , Patnaikuni Venkata Suresh , Kakunuri Manohar
Published: February 2023

Carbon nanofiber-based electrodes are generally embedded with either metal oxides or two-dimensional materials to enhance their specific capacitance and rate performance. For the first time in this study, a flexible carbon nanofiber electrode consisting of metal oxide (RuO2) and two-dimensional MXene was prepared to realize the synergetic effect on the electrochemical performance. This ternary composite electrode was prepared by electrospinning RuO2, and MXene dispersed polyacrylonitrile precursor solution, followed by thermal treatment. The distribution of RuO2 nanoparticles and delaminated MXene sheets within a carbon nanofiber matrix was examined using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), while morphological analysis was carried out using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The electrode with pseudocapacitive RuO2 and layered MXene facilitated charge storage by faradic reactions and intercalation of electrolyte ions. Electrochemical studies demonstrated that the prepared ternary composite electrodes exhibit a specific capacitance of 322 F g−1 with a capacitance retention of 90% after 2500 cycles at 1 A g−1. Additionally, the ternary composite showed an excellent rate capability with a minimal drop in capacitance when the current density was varied from 2 A g−1 to 10 A g−1.
Structural and Electrochemical Identification of CoFe Pnictide Catalysts Affecting the Performance of the Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Lee Ui Young , Jeong Dong In , Choi Hyung Wook , Kim Jiwon , Kang Bong Kyun , Yoon Dae Ho
Published: February 2023

The advance of efficient electrocatalysts for electrochemical water splitting is highly significant for the energy conversion system, but is hindered by the high overpotential of the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) by four-electron transfer. Herein, we report a variation of transition metal compound based on the Co–Fe Prussian blue analogue (PBA) precursor. CoP/FeP, Co2N/Fe3N, and CoFe catalysts are synthesized in N2 atmosphere by phosphorization, nitridation, and calcination, respectively. After phosphorization, the synthesized mesoporous CoP/FeP nanocubes contribute to the improvement of the electrocatalyst performance by maintaining the shape of the precursor. The mesoporous structure of the CoP/FeP catalyst enhanced the electrochemically active surface area (ECSA) than other Co2N/Fe3N and CoFe catalysts, resulting in better OER performance with an overpotential of 279 mV at a current density of 10 mA∙cm−2, a Tafel slope of 74 mV∙dec−1, and good stability for 24 h with only 5.64% degradation in alkaline solution (1.0 M KOH).
Initial Nucleation Approach for Large Grain-Size and High-Quality Microcrystalline Silicon Active Layer in Thin Film Transistors
Authors: Choi Jiwon , Cho Jaewoong , Kim Hongrae , Jeong Sungjin , Kim Taeyong , Dhungel Suresh Kumar , Kim Youngkuk , Song Jang-Kun , Kim Yong-Sang , Pham Duy Phong , Yi Junsin
Published: February 2023

High mobility and stability are critical factors for thin film transistor (TFT) device quality. These parameters are directly dependent on the crystalline structure of the active layer materials. In this paper, the early nucleation approach was performed for increasing the crystalline grain size of microcrystalline silicon (μc-Si:H) active layer for TFT device quality. The crystalline nucleation is delicately regulated in an intense hydrogen plasma environment using the plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD). When compared to μc-Si:H deposition without the nucleation approach, the crystalline volume factor of μc-Si:H increased from 60% to over 80% by using the nucleation technique. The nucleation increases the crystalline grain size by five orders of magnitude. Furthermore, the surface roughness of μc-Si:H is decreased from 13.7 nm to 7.1 nm. A forming-gas post-annealing treatment (≤400 °C) is used to minimize defect density. With a low microstructural factor, thermal-treated film quality improves dramatically. Nucleation approach is to be a simple and efficient for producing high-quality TFT devices.
Screen-Printed Electrodes Based on Conductive Inks of Polyaniline/Graphene Hybrids and Their Application to Progesterone Detection
Authors: de Araújo Gabriela Martins , Cardoso Milton Alexandre , Codognoto Lúcia , Brett Christopher M.A. , Simões Fábio R.
Published: February 2023

Screen-printed electrodes (SPEs) were produced using conductive inks based on hybrids of polyaniline (PAni) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO). Cyclic voltammetry (CV) showed peaks characteristic of the PAni redox behavior in acidic media for all the modified SPEs. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) showed a significant decrease in the charge-transfer resistances, from 930 Ω for SPE/G:PAni to 544 Ω for SPE/G:PAni-rGO1 and to 303 Ω for SPE/G:PAni-rGO2 with just 0.06% and 0.12% in mass of rGO, respectively, in the final mass composition of the conductive inks. The SPEs were evaluated in the determination of progesterone (P4) hormone in neutral medium (phosphate buffer solution, pH 7.0). The CV results showed higher current signals at SPE/G:PAni-rGO1 compared with SPE/G and SPE/G:PAni, indicating a synergistic effect of PAni-rGO1 in the determination of P4. EIS also showed significant changes in the electrochemical double-layer capacitances in the presence of P4. The limits of detection (LOD) and quantification (LOQ) were, respectively, 211 nmol l−1 and 703 nmol l−1. This method is a simple, scalable and low-cost alternative for the fabrication of electrodes based on PAni-rGO hybrids, with synergic properties, aiming for future applications in sensors.
Application of Swarm Intelligence Optimization Algorithm in Logistics Delivery Path Optimization under the Background of Big Data
Authors: Zhao Guofu
Published: February 2023

Traditional logistics delivery route optimization algorithm has some problems such as long time to find the optimal route. Based on this, this paper discusses swarm intelligence optimization algorithm and logistics delivery route optimization. To solve the logistics vehicle routing problem, considering that the basic ACO (ant colony optimization) has the disadvantages of slow convergence speed and easy to fall into local optimum, this paper proposes a new hybrid population optimization algorithm and applies it to VRPTW (vehicle routing problem with time windows). In addition, the concept of crowding degree in AFSA (artificial fish swarm algorithm) is introduced into ACO. In the early stage of the optimization process, a strong crowding degree limit is set to ensure that most ants are not affected by pheromone concentration to conduct random optimization. The simulation results show that the AC (accuracy rate) of this algorithm is 95.08%, which is higher than the traditional PSO (particle swarm optimization) algorithm and general heuristic algorithm. The hybrid algorithm can effectively improve the optimization efficiency of VRPTW, lay a foundation for solving large-scale VRPTW, and provide new research ideas and methods. At the same time, the results fully show that the algorithm in this paper has certain advantages in performance, and it can be applied to logistics delivery route optimization.
Dose-Response Relationship between Head and Neck Radiation and Damages to Gustatory Cells in Mice
Authors: Bu Shanshan , Qiu Bin , Xue Hui , Liu Hongxiang , Wang Xiushen
Published: February 2023

Objective. To investigate the dose-response relationship between radiation to the head and neck regions and damage observed in mice gustatory cells. Materials and Methods. A total number of 45 mice (C57BL/6) (aged 8–12 weeks) were enrolled in this study. The head and neck regions of the mice were irradiated at doses of 8 Gy (low-dose group, n = 15), 16 Gy (moderate-dose group, n = 15), and 24 Gy (high-dose group, n = 15). Each time, 3 mice from each group were sacrificed before radiation and then 2-day, 4-day, 7-day, and 14-day post the irradiation, respectively. The immune-histochemical staining method was employed to obtain gustatory papilla tissues and mark gustatory cells. Careful calculation of the numbers of proliferative cells, taste buds, and type II gustatory cells was conducted. Results. A decrease in the number of Ki-67-marked proliferative cells was noted at 2 days postirradiation (DPI), and the number of cells was recovered to the normal level at 4-DPI in each group. The number of Ki-67-marked proliferative cells was hypercompensation (significantly higher than normal) in the moderate-dose and high-dose groups at 7-DPI and insufficient compensation (significantly lower than normal) in the high-dose group at 14-DPI. There was a significant reduction of taste buds and type II gustatory cells at 2-DPI and is lowest at 4-DPI in the moderate-dose and high-dose groups, while little change was observed in the low-dose group. Conclusion. Damages to Gustatory Cells after head and neck radiation were dose-related and compensation occurred in 14-DPI and may be insufficient when overdosed.
Investigating the Feasibility of Using Concrete Containing Waste Paper Sludge Ash and Pozzolanic Materials to Repair Bridge Stub Columns
Authors: Delaram F. , Mohammadi Y. , Adlparvar M. R.
Published: February 2023

In most cases, the bridge columns are underwater, and there is a risk of corrosion. The columns of marine structures and docks also include such problems. In addition to the problem of environmental hazards, the bridge columns may fail due to design problems or increasing needs. The use of waterproof concrete materials as a jacket can have a role in increasing the life of bridges. Studies in recent years show that some waste from paper industries can be used in the construction industry. In the present study, several concrete stub columns were built as bridge columns and retrofitted with concrete jackets containing waste paper sludge ash, silica nanoparticles, aluminium oxide nanoparticles, and acrylic resin. The variables included the geometric shape of the column (square and circular) and the type of nanoparticles used in the jackets (silica and aluminium oxide nanoparticles), and the curing environment of the columns (normal and sulfate environments). The combined use of nanomaterials and waste paper ash is the most important novelty of the present study. The axial loading test was performed on the columns, and the load-deflection diagrams were obtained. The ductility, stiffness, load-bearing capacity, and crack distribution were among the parameters that were used to compare different modes. The proposed jackets increased the carrying capacity by 10 to 38%, depending on the processing curing environment and the type of nanoparticles. The combined use of aluminium oxide nanoparticles and waste paper ash can improve compressive, tensile, and flexural strengths and increase the axial load capacity of bridge columns. The proposed concrete jacket effectively reduces the corrosion of concrete and steel reinforcement and improves the bridge’s useful life.
Predicting Cancer Risk from Germline Whole-exome Sequencing Data Using a Novel Context-based Variant Aggregation Approach
Authors: Guan Zoe , Begg Colin B. , Shen Ronglai
Published: February 2023

Many studies have shown that the distributions of the genomic, nucleotide, and epigenetic contexts of somatic variants in tumors are informative of cancer etiology. Recently, a new direction of research has focused on extracting signals from the contexts of germline variants and evidence has emerged that patterns defined by these factors are associated with oncogenic pathways, histologic subtypes, and prognosis. It remains an open question whether aggregating germline variants using meta-features capturing their genomic, nucleotide, and epigenetic contexts can improve cancer risk prediction. This aggregation approach can potentially increase statistical power for detecting signals from rare variants, which have been hypothesized to be a major source of the missing heritability of cancer. Using germline whole-exome sequencing data from the UK Biobank, we developed risk models for 10 cancer types using known risk variants (cancer-associated SNPs and pathogenic variants in known cancer predisposition genes) as well as models that additionally include the meta-features. The meta-features did not improve the prediction accuracy of models based on known risk variants. It is possible that expanding the approach to whole-genome sequencing can lead to gains in prediction accuracy.

Significance:

There is evidence that cancer is partly caused by rare genetic variants that have not yet been identified. We investigate this issue using novel statistical methods and data from the UK Biobank.
The PARP1 Inhibitor AZD5305 Impairs Ovarian Adenocarcinoma Progression and Visceral Metastases in Patient-derived Xenografts Alone and in Combination with Carboplatin
Authors: Dellavedova Giulia , Decio Alessandra , Formenti Laura , Albertella Mark R. , Wilson Joanne , Staniszewska Anna D. , Leo Elisabetta , Giavazzi Raffaella , Ghilardi Carmen , Bani Maria Rosa
Published: February 2023

PARP inhibitors (PARPi) have changed the management of patients with ovarian cancer and their effectiveness has been demonstrated especially in homologous recombination repair–deficient tumors. These first-generation drugs target PARP1, but also PARP2 and other family members potentially responsible for adverse effects that limit their therapeutic potential and restrict their use in combination with chemotherapeutic agents.

We investigated ovarian cancer patient-derived xenografts (OC-PDXs) to assess whether malignant progression could be impaired by a novel inhibitor selective for PARP1 (AZD5305) and to assess the potential of its combination with carboplatin (CPT), the standard-of-care for patients with ovarian cancer.

In BRCA-mutated OC-PDXs, AZD5305 achieved greater tumor regressions and longer duration of response as well as a superior impairment of visceral metastasis and improved survival benefit compared with the first-generation dual PARP1/2 inhibitors.

The combination of AZD5305 plus CPT was more efficacious than single agents. Subcutaneously growing tumors experienced regression that persisted after therapy stopped. Combination efficacy was greater against tumors that did not respond well to platinum, even at a dose at which AZD5305 monotherapy was ineffective. The combination therapy impaired metastatic dissemination and significantly prolonged the lifespan of mice bearing OC-PDXs in their abdomen. This combination benefit was evident even when CPT was used at suboptimal doses, and was superior to full-dose platinum treatment.

These preclinical studies demonstrate that the PARP1-selective inhibitor AZD5305 retains and improves the therapeutic benefit of the first-generation PARPi, providing an opportunity to maximize benefits for this class of anticancer agents.

Significance:

Selective PARP1i AZD5305 can exceed the efficacy of first-generation PARPi, which target both PARP1 and PARP2, and potentiates the efficacy of CPT when given in combination. AZD5305 alone or in combination with platinum delayed visceral metastasis, ultimately extending the lifespan of OC-PDX–bearing mice. These preclinical models mimic the progression of the disease occurring in patients after debulking surgery, and are translationally relevant.
Assessments of Perfusion, Blood Flow, and Vascular Structure in Ambulatory Subjects: Guidance for Translational Research Scientists
Authors: Schonberger Zachariah G. , Huang Sophie J.Y. , Thakkar Radhika N. , Mamone Amar A. , Khan Daniyal I. , Chow Natalie L.Y. , Ahmed Moeiz , Sivaram Namashi , Bao Yuki , Kesavan Vihirthan , Côté Jordan , Sun Clara , Chhina Jashnoor , Halvorson Brayden D. , Alimorad Gabrielle H. , Menon Nithin J. , Goldman Daniel , Frisbee Stephanie J.
Published: February 2023

Research involving human subjects in ambulatory settings is a critical link in the chain comprising translational research, spanning preclinical research to human subject and patient cohort studies. There are presently a wide array of techniques and approaches available to investigators wishing to study blood flow, perfusion, and vascular structure and function in human subjects. In this multi-sectioned review, we discuss capillaroscopy, carotid intima-media thickness, flow-mediated dilation, laser Doppler flowmetry, near-infrared spectroscopy, peripheral arterial tonometry, pulse wave velocity, retinal fundus imaging, and vascular plethysmography. Each section contains a general overview and the physical basis of the technique followed by a discussion of the procedures involved and the necessary equipment, with attention paid to specific requirements or limitations. Subsequently, we detail which aspects of vascular function can be studied with a given technique, the analytical approach to the collected data, and the appropriate application and limitation(s) to the interpretation of the data collected. Finally, a modified scoping review provides a summary of how each assessment technique has been applied in previous studies. It is anticipated that this review will provide an efficient source of information and insight for preclinical investigators seeking to add translational aspects to their research programs.
Prediction of Time to Next Therapeutic Thoracentesis and Identification of Risk Factors of Rapid Pleural Fluid Recurrence: A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Fjaellegaard Katrine , Petersen Jesper Koefod , Rasmussen Daniel Beck , Clementsen Paul Frost , Laursen Christian B. , Bhatnagar Rahul , Bodtger Uffe
Published: February 2023

Background: The value of pre-booked repeated thoracentesis in patients with recurrent pleural effusion is reliant on the estimation of time to next drainage. Identifying factors associated with rapid pleural fluid recurrence could be supportive. Objective: We aimed to evaluate the ability of the patient and physician to predict the time to next therapeutic thoracentesis and to identify characteristics associated with rapid pleural fluid recurrence. Method: In a prospective, observational study, patients with recurrent unilateral pleural effusion and the physician were to predict the time to next symptom-guided therapeutic thoracentesis. Primary outcome was difference between days to actual thoracentesis and days predicted by the patient and the physician. Factors associated with pleural fluid recurrence within 60-day follow-up were assessed using Cox regression analysis. Results: A total of 98 patients were included, 71% with malignant pleural effusion. Patients’ and physicians’ predictions numerically deviated by 6 days from the actual number of days to re-thoracentesis (IQR 2–12 and 2–13, respectively). On multivariate analyses, factors associated with increased hazard of pleural fluid recurrence included daily fluid production (HR 1.35 [1.16–1.59], p > 0.001) and large effusion size (HR 2.76 [1.23–6.19], p = 0.01). Septations were associated with decreased hazard (HR 0.48 [0.24–0.96], p = 0.04). Conclusion: Patients and physicians were equally unable to predict the time to next therapeutic thoracentesis. Daily fluid production and large effusion size were associated with increased risk of rapid pleural fluid recurrence, while septations were associated with a decreased risk. This may guide patients and physicians in when to expect a need for therapeutic thoracentesis.
Exploring Pain, Quality of Life, and Emotional Well-Being in Patients with Advanced Pancreatic Cancer Practicing Spiritual Meditation: A Pilot Study
Authors: Eggers Christine , Olliges Elisabeth , Boeck Stefan , Kruger Stephan , Uhl Waldemar , Meissner Karin
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Studies on mind-body approaches in patients with advanced pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) are rare. We performed a pilot study with follow-up until 1 year to explore changes in pain, quality of life (QoL), stress, and negative emotions in patients with advanced PDAC, who regularly practiced a standardized form of spiritual meditation in addition to standard medical care. Methods: At baseline and every 2 months for a maximum of 1 year, global pain, QoL (global, SEIQoL, FACT-G), spiritual well-being (FACIT-Sp), perceived stress (PSQ-20), anxiety and depression (HADS), and diurnal cortisol secretion (cortisol slope) were assessed. Changes from baseline were explored by pairwise comparisons of available cases. Results: Twenty participants (11 women, 62 ± 9.9 SD years) participated in the study, of whom 9 patients survived the study year. Pairwise comparisons revealed transient improvements of pain after 4 and 6 months (both p values < 0.05), of global QoL after 4, 6, 8, 10 months (all p values < 0.05), of SeiQoL scores after 4 months (p < 0.05), of FACT-G scores after 6 months (p < 0.05), and of FACIT-Sp scores after 2 and 6 months (both p values < 0.05). Furthermore, overall stress levels (PSQ-20) decreased from baseline to 2, 6, and 8 months (all p values < 0.05), and anxiety declined from baseline to 6 months (p < 0.05). Depression scores and the cortisol slope did not change. Conclusion: This pilot study demonstrated the acceptability and feasibility of studies on spiritual meditation in patients with advanced PDAC. Randomized controlled trials are warranted to study the effects of spiritual meditation and other mind-body interventions on pain, QoL, and emotional well-being in this patient population.
“É preciso força pra saber sonhar”: reflexões a respeito dos sonhos entre famílias tupi guarani no sudoeste do Estado de São Paulo
Authors: Almeida Lígia Rodrigues de
Published: February 2023

Pretende-se neste trabalho discutir a respeito da maneira como as famílias tupi guarani, que vivem em aldeias localizadas no sudoeste do estado de São Paulo, dissertam sobre seus sonhos e como eles estão relacionados à constituição da pessoa. Para tanto abordarei suas formulações acerca da noção de mbaraeté, que consiste no fortalecimento de seus corpos-espíritos, condição que possibilita que os sonhos sejam experienciados de maneiras distintas pelas pessoas. O que pretendo discutir a partir do contraponto trazido por meus interlocutores de pesquisa entre os sonhos experienciados pelas crianças, as quais ainda não estão fortalecidas, e aqueles que são vivenciados por pessoas que estão mbaraeté (fortes). Convém destacar que os sonhos, para essas famílias não se concluem ao acordar, de modo que seus desdobramentos na vida das pessoas dependem das ações do sonhador e de seus ouvintes, tanto ao despertar quanto nos dias subsequentes.
Ocupando o cubo branco: reflexões sobre a entrada da pixação no mundo da arte
Authors: Leal Gabriela Pereira de Oliveira , Campos Ricardo Marnoto Oliveira
Published: February 2023

Neste artigo descrevemos e analisamos a entrada da pixação no mundo da arte. Ao reconstituir situações que contribuíram com este trânsito, mostramos que o estigma e criminalização desta prática na esfera pública não impediram a sua gradual entrada em certos circuitos artísticos. Embora o processo de artificação da pixação envolva diferentes eventos e sujeitos, defendemos que ele resulta em grande medida de estratégias desencadeadas pelos próprios pixadores. Tal como ocupam as superfícies da cidade, eles e elas ocuparam o mundo da arte para fundar um lugar próprio. As reflexões apresentadas se baseiam em pesquisa sobre arte urbana realizada entre os anos de 2017 e 2021, que recorreu à análise de documentos e entrevistas em profundidade com um conjunto de atores sociais envolvidos neste contexto.