bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Linguistic Complex Fuzzy Sets
Authors: Dai Songsong
Published: March 2023

Complex fuzzy sets (CFSs) are a suitable tool to manage spatial directional information which includes distance and direction. However, spatial directional information is given by linguistic values. It is very awkward for the CFS to describe this type of spatial directional information. To overcome this limitation, we first propose a novel concept called a linguistic complex fuzzy set (LCFS) to serve as an extension of the CFS. Then we put forward some basic operational laws for LCFSs. After that, we define three operators for LCFSs: the linguistic complex fuzzy weighted averaging (LCFWA) operator, the linguistic amplitude max (Amax) operator and the linguistic amplitude min (Amin) operator. In actual application, we use the LCFWA operator to deal with group decision making when the importance weights of experts are known. For the situation in which the weights of experts are unknown, we develop an Amax-Amin method for group decision making.
Logarithmic Coefficients for Some Classes Defined by Subordination
Authors: Analouei Adegani Ebrahim , Motamednezhad Ahmad , Bulboacă Teodor , Cho Nak Eun
Published: March 2023

In this paper, we obtain the sharp and accurate bounds for the logarithmic coefficients of some subclasses of analytic functions defined and studied in earlier works. Furthermore, we obtain the bounds of the second Hankel determinant of logarithmic coefficients for a class defined by subordination, such as the class of starlike functions S*(φ). Some applications of our results, which are extensions of those reported in earlier papers are given here as special cases. In addition, the results given can be used for other popular subclasses.
Spectral Problem of the Hamiltonian in Quantum Mechanics without Reference to a Potential Function
Authors: Al-Yousef Ibraheem F. , Ekhwan Moayad , Bahlouli H. , Alhaidari A. D.
Published: March 2023

Following the celebrated postulates of quantum mechanics, we write the quantum mechanical wavefunction as a convergent series of suitably selected complete square-integrable basis functions in configuration space. The expansion coefficients of the series are energy orthogonal polynomials that contain all spectral information about the system. We exploit the properties of these polynomials to introduce physical systems with rich and highly nontrivial energy spectra. In this approach, no reference is made at all to the usual potential energy function. We consider, in this new approach, a few representative problems at the level of undergraduate students who took at least two courses in quantum mechanics and are familiar with the basics of orthogonal polynomials. Our aim is to expose students to quantum systems with rich energy spectra that goes beyond the very limited textbook examples of systems with very simple energy spectra (e.g., the harmonic oscillator, Coulomb, Morse, Pöschl–Teller, etc.) illustrating the physical significance of these energy polynomials in the description of a quantum system. To assist students, partial solutions are given in an appendix as tables and figures.
The Heat Transfer Problem in a Non-Convex Body—A New Procedure for Constructing Solutions
Authors: Saldanha da Gama Rogério Martins
Published: March 2023

The subject of this work is the coupled steady-state conduction-radiation-convection heat transfer phenomenon in a non-convex blackbody, which is represented by a second-order partial differential equation (representing the heat conduction inside the body) subjected to nonlinear (and non-local) boundary conditions (due to the thermal radiation heat transfer). Moreover, anon-convex body emits thermal radiant energy to itself, which must be taken into account in the boundary conditions when high temperatures are involved. The unknown is the absolute temperature. A procedure is proposed for constructing the solution tothe problem by means of a sequence whose elements are obtained from linear problems, such asthe classical ones involving linear Robin boundary conditions.
High-Conductive Multilayer TiOX-Ti3C2TX Electrocatalyst for Longevous Metal-Oxygen Battery under a High Rate
Authors: Sun Zhihui , Zhao Shuai , Zhang Jixiong
Published: March 2023

Metal-oxygen batteries (especially Li-O2 battery) with ultrahigh theoretical energy density are of great promise for long-range vehicle electrification. However, the limited enduring stability and low-rate property further restricted the large-scale commercial application of metal-oxygen batteries. We firstly report the fabrication of a TiOX@Ti3C2TX with multilayer structure and its utilization as cathode for Li-O2 batteries. The TiOX protective layer was fabricated in situ to directly optimize surface properties of Ti3C2TX, as well as to strengthen surface active functional groups. The initial discharge capacity of as-prepared TiOX@Ti3C2TX cathode reaches 7100 mAh g−1 at 2500 mA g−1, as well as delivers impressive cycling stability (>100 cycles) at 2500 mA g−1. Experimental analysis reveals that the in situ TiOX protective layer enhanced active functional-groups and the improved complete decomposition of discharge products Li2O2 are three critical factors for promoting the electrochemical performance of LOBs. This work exhibits a new insight into the design of MXene electrocatalysts for metal-oxygen batteries.
Threat Hunting Architecture Using a Machine Learning Approach for Critical Infrastructures Protection
Authors: Aragonés Lozano Mario , Pérez Llopis Israel , Esteve Domingo Manuel
Published: March 2023

The number and the diversity in nature of daily cyber-attacks have increased in the last few years, and trends show that both will grow exponentially in the near future. Critical Infrastructures (CI) operators are not excluded from these issues; therefore, CIs’ Security Departments must have their own group of IT specialists to prevent and respond to cyber-attacks. To introduce more challenges in the existing cyber security landscape, many attacks are unknown until they spawn, even a long time after their initial actions, posing increasing difficulties on their detection and remediation. To be reactive against those cyber-attacks, usually defined as zero-day attacks, organizations must have Threat Hunters at their security departments that must be aware of unusual behaviors and Modus Operandi. Threat Hunters must face vast amounts of data (mainly benign and repetitive, and following predictable patterns) in short periods to detect any anomaly, with the associated cognitive overwhelming. The application of Artificial Intelligence, specifically Machine Learning (ML) techniques, can remarkably impact the real-time analysis of those data. Not only that, but providing the specialists with useful visualizations can significantly increase the Threat Hunters’ understanding of the issues that they are facing. Both of these can help to discriminate between harmless data and malicious data, alleviating analysts from the above-mentioned overload and providing means to enhance their Cyber Situational Awareness (CSA). This work aims to design a system architecture that helps Threat Hunters, using a Machine Learning approach and applying state-of-the-art visualization techniques in order to protect Critical Infrastructures based on a distributed, scalable and online configurable framework of interconnected modular components.
Ensuring SDN Resilience under the Influence of Cyber Attacks: Combining Methods of Topological Transformation of Stochastic Networks, Markov Processes, and Neural Networks
Authors: Kotenko Igor , Saenko Igor , Privalov Andrey , Lauta Oleg
Published: March 2023

The article proposes an approach to ensuring the functioning of Software-Defined Networks (SDN) in cyber attack conditions based on the analytical modeling of cyber attacks using the method of topological transformation of stochastic networks. Unlike other well-known approaches, the proposed approach combines the SDN resilience assessment based on analytical modeling and the SDN state monitoring based on a neural network. The mathematical foundations of this assessment are considered, which make it possible to calculate the resilience indicators of SDN using analytical expressions. As the main indicator, it is proposed to use the correct operation coefficient for the resilience of SDN. The approach under consideration involves the development of verbal models of cyber attacks, followed by the construction of their analytical models. In order to build analytical models of cyber attacks, the method of topological transformation of stochastic networks (TTSN) is used. To obtain initial data in the simulation, the SDN simulation bench was justified and deployed in the EVE-NG (Emulated Virtual Environment Next Generation) virtual environment. The result of the simulation is the time distribution function and the average time for the cyber attack implementation. These results are then used to evaluate the SDN resilience indicators, which are found by using the Markov processes theory. In order to ensure the resilience of the SDN functioning, the article substantiates an algorithm for monitoring the state of controllers and their automatic restructuring, built on the basis of a neural network. When one is choosing a neural network, a comparative evaluation of the convolutional neural network and the LSTM neural network is carried out. The experimental results of analytical modeling and simulation are presented and their comparative evaluation is carried out, which showed that the proposed approach has a sufficiently high accuracy, completeness of the obtained solutions and it took a short time to obtain the result.
Phylogenomics and Biogeography of the Mammilloid Clade Revealed an Intricate Evolutionary History Arose in the Mexican Plateau
Authors: Chincoya Delil A. , Arias Salvador , Vaca-Paniagua Felipe , Dávila Patricia , Solórzano Sofía
Published: March 2023

Mexico harbors ~45% of world’s cacti species richness. Their biogeography and phylogenomics were integrated to elucidate the evolutionary history of the genera Coryphantha, Escobaria, Mammillaria, Mammilloydia, Neolloydia, Ortegocactus, and Pelecyphora (Mammilloid Clade). We analyzed 52 orthologous loci from 142 complete genomes of chloroplast (103 taxa) to generate a cladogram and a chronogram; in the latter, the ancestral distribution was reconstructed with the Dispersal-Extinction-Cladogenesis model. The ancestor of these genera arose ~7 Mya on the Mexican Plateau, from which nine evolutionary lineages evolved. This region was the site of 52% of all the biogeographical processes. The lineages 2, 3 and 6 were responsible for the colonization of the arid southern territories. In the last 4 Mya, the Baja California Peninsula has been a region of prolific evolution, particularly for lineages 8 and 9. Dispersal was the most frequent process and vicariance had relevance in the isolation of cacti distributed in the south of Mexico. The 70 taxa sampled as Mammillaria were distributed in six distinct lineages; one of these presumably corresponded to this genus, which likely had its center of origin in the southern part of the Mexican Plateau. We recommend detailed studies to further determine the taxonomic circumscription of the seven genera.
Effectiveness of Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Combined with Visual Feedback Training in Improving Neuroplasticity and Lower Limb Function after Chronic Stroke: A Pilot Study
Authors: Cheng Hsien-Lin , Lin Chueh-Ho , Tseng Sung-Hui , Peng Chih-Wei , Lai Chien-Hung
Published: March 2023

After a stroke, sustained gait impairment can restrict participation in the activities listed in the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health model and cause poor quality of life. The present study investigated the effectiveness of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) and visual feedback training (VF) training in improving lower limb motor performance, gait, and corticospinal excitability in patients with chronic stroke. Thirty patients were randomized into three groups that received either rTMS or sham stimulation over the contralesional leg region accompanied by VF training groups in addition to the conventional rehabilitation group. All participants underwent intervention sessions three times per week for four weeks. Outcome measures included the motor-evoked potential (MEP) of the anterior tibialis muscle, Berg Balance Scale (BBS) scores, Timed Up and Go (TUG) test scores, and Fugl–Meyer Assessment of Lower Extremity scores. After the intervention, the rTMS and VF group had significantly improved in MEP latency (p = 0.011), TUG scores (p = 0.008), and BBS scores (p = 0.011). The sham rTMS and VF group had improved MEP latency (p = 0.027). The rTMS and VF training may enhance the cortical excitability and walking ability of individuals with chronic stroke. The potential benefits encourage a larger trial to determine the efficacy in stroke patients.
Overexpression of the Brassica rapa bZIP Transcription Factor, BrbZIP-S, Increases the Stress Tolerance in Nicotiana benthamiana
Authors: Eom Seung Hee , Lim Heung Bin , Hyun Tae Kyung
Published: March 2023

In higher plants, S1-basic region-leucine zipper (S1-bZIP) transcription factors fulfill crucial roles in the physiological homeostasis of carbon and amino acid metabolisms and stress responses. However, very little is known about the physiological role of S1-bZIP in cruciferous vegetables. Here, we analyzed the physiological function of S1-bZIP from Brassica rapa (BrbZIP-S) in modulating proline and sugar metabolism. Overexpression of BrbZIP-S in Nicotiana benthamiana resulted in delayed chlorophyll degradation during the response to dark conditions. Under heat stress or recovery conditions, the transgenic lines exhibited a lower accumulation of H2O2, malondialdehyde, and protein carbonyls compared to the levels in transgenic control plants. These results strongly indicate that BrbZIP-S regulates plant tolerance against dark and heat stress. We propose that BrbZIP-S is a modulator of proline and sugar metabolism, which are required for energy homeostasis in response to environmental stress conditions.
N20D/N116E Combined Mutant Downward Shifted the pH Optimum of Bacillus subtilis NADH Oxidase
Authors: Yang Taowei , Pan Longze , Wu Wenhui , Pan Xuewei , Xu Meijuan , Zhang Xian , Rao Zhiming
Published: March 2023

Cofactor regeneration is indispensable to avoid the addition of large quantities of cofactor NADH or NAD+ in oxidation-reduction reactions. Water-forming NADH oxidase (Nox) has attracted substantive attention as it can oxidize cytosolic NADH to NAD+ without concomitant accumulation of by-products. However, its applications have some limitations in some oxidation-reduction processes when its optimum pH is different from its coupled enzymes. In this study, to modify the optimum pH of BsNox, fifteen relevant candidates of site-directed mutations were selected based on surface charge rational design. As predicted, the substitution of this asparagine residue with an aspartic acid residue (N22D) or with a glutamic acid residue (N116E) shifts its pH optimum from 9.0 to 7.0. Subsequently, N20D/N116E combined mutant could not only downshift the pH optimum of BsNox but also significantly increase its specific activity, which was about 2.9-fold at pH 7.0, 2.2-fold at pH 8.0 and 1.2-fold at pH 9.0 that of the wild-type. The double mutant N20D/N116E displays a higher activity within a wide range of pH from 6 to 9, which is wider than the wide type. The usability of the BsNox and its variations for NAD+ regeneration in a neutral environment was demonstrated by coupling with a glutamate dehydrogenase for α-ketoglutaric acid (α-KG) production from L-glutamic acid (L-Glu) at pH 7.0. Employing the variation N20D/N116E as an NAD+ regeneration coenzyme could shorten the process duration; 90% of L-Glu were transformed into α-KG within 40 min vs. 70 min with the wild-type BsNox for NAD+ regeneration. The results obtained in this work suggest the promising properties of the BsNox variation N20D/N116E are competent in NAD+ regeneration applications under a neutral environment.
The Promoter SNPs Were Associated with Both the Contents of Poly-Unsaturated Fatty Acids (PUFAs) and the Expressions of PUFA-Related Genes in Common Carp
Authors: Zhang Yan , Xu Zi-Ming , Wang Qi , Li Qing-Song , Sun Xiao-Qing , Li Jiong-Tang
Published: March 2023

The allo-tetraploid common carp encodes two duplicated fads2 genes (fads2a and fads2b) and two duplicated elovl5 genes (elovl5a and elovl5b). The coding SNPs (cSNPs) of these genes were reported to be significantly associated with the PUFA contents. Whether the promoter SNPs (pSNPs) were associated with the PUFA contents has not been reported yet. In this study, after sequencing the promoters of these four genes, we identified six pSNPs associated with the contents of PUFAs in common carp, including one elovl5a pSNP, one elovl5b pSNP, and four fads2b pSNPs. The pSNPs were predicted in the locations of transcriptional factor binding sites. Together with previously identified cSNPs in fads2b and elovl5b, the pSNPs and cSNPs of these two genes had the joint effects on the PUFA contents with higher explained percentage of phenotypic variation of the PUFA contents than single gene. The expression levels of both fads2a and fads2b were significantly positively correlated with the contents of six PUFAs. The fads2b pSNPs corresponding to higher fads2b expression levels were associated with higher PUFA contents. The pSNPs and cSNPs will be useful for the future selection breeding of common carp with higher PUFA contents.
Inhibition Analysis and High-Resolution Crystal Structure of Mus musculus Glutathione Transferase P1-1
Authors: Kupreienko Oleksii , Pouliou Fotini , Konstandinidis Konstantinos , Axarli Irene , Douni Eleni , Papageorgiou Anastassios C. , Labrou Nikolaos E.
Published: March 2023

Multidrug resistance is a significant barrier that makes anticancer therapies less effective. Glutathione transferases (GSTs) are involved in multidrug resistance mechanisms and play a significant part in the metabolism of alkylating anticancer drugs. The purpose of this study was to screen and select a lead compound with high inhibitory potency against the isoenzyme GSTP1-1 from Mus musculus (MmGSTP1-1). The lead compound was selected following the screening of a library of currently approved and registered pesticides that belong to different chemical classes. The results showed that the fungicide iprodione [3-(3,5-dichlorophenyl)-2,4-dioxo-N-propan-2-ylimidazolidine-1-carboxamide] exhibited the highest inhibition potency (ΙC50 = 11.3 ± 0.5 μΜ) towards MmGSTP1-1. Kinetics analysis revealed that iprodione functions as a mixed-type inhibitor towards glutathione (GSH) and non-competitive inhibitor towards 1-chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene (CDNB). X-ray crystallography was used to determine the crystal structure of MmGSTP1-1 at 1.28 Å resolution as a complex with S-(p-nitrobenzyl)glutathione (Nb-GSH). The crystal structure was used to map the ligand-binding site of MmGSTP1-1 and to provide structural data of the interaction of the enzyme with iprodione using molecular docking. The results of this study shed light on the inhibition mechanism of MmGSTP1-1 and provide a new compound as a potential lead structure for future drug/inhibitor development.
Plant Polyphenol Gossypol Induced Cell Death and Its Association with Gene Expression in Mouse Macrophages
Authors: Cao Heping , Sethumadhavan Kandan
Published: March 2023

Gossypol is a complex plant polyphenol reported to be cytotoxic and anti-inflammatory, but little is known about its effect on gene expression in macrophages. The objective of this study was to explore gossypol’s toxicity and its effect on gene expression involved in the inflammatory response, glucose transport and insulin signaling pathways in mouse macrophages. Mouse RAW264.7 macrophages were treated with multiple concentrations of gossypol for 2–24 h. Gossypol toxicity was estimated by MTT assay and soluble protein content. qPCR analyzed the expression of anti-inflammatory tristetraprolin family (TTP/ZFP36), proinflammatory cytokine, glucose transporter (GLUT) and insulin signaling genes. Cell viability was greatly reduced by gossypol, accompanied with a dramatic reduction in soluble protein content in the cells. Gossypol treatment resulted in an increase in TTP mRNA level by 6–20-fold and increased ZFP36L1, ZFP36L2 and ZFP36L3 mRNA levels by 26–69-fold. Gossypol increased proinflammatory cytokine TNF, COX2, GM-CSF, INFγ and IL12b mRNA levels up to 39–458-fold. Gossypol treatment upregulated mRNA levels of GLUT1, GLUT3 and GLUT4 genes as well as INSR, AKT1, PIK3R1 and LEPR, but not APP genes. This study demonstrated that gossypol induced macrophage death and reduced soluble protein content, which was accompanied with the massive stimulation of anti-inflammatory TTP family and proinflammatory cytokine gene expression, as well as the elevation of gene expression involved in glucose transport and the insulin signaling pathway in mouse macrophages.
Streptomyces Bioactive Metabolites Prevent Liver Cancer through Apoptosis, Inhibiting Oxidative Stress and Inflammatory Markers in Diethylnitrosamine-Induced Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Alhawsawi Sana M. , Mohany Mohamed , Baabbad Almohannad A. , Almoutiri Nawaf D. , Maodaa Saleh N. , Al-shaebi Esam M. , Yaseen Khadijah N. , Wadaan Mohammed A. M. , Hozzein Wael N.
Published: March 2023

A safe and effective treatment for liver cancer is still elusive despite all attempts. Biomolecules produced from natural products and their derivatives are potential sources of new anticancer medications. This study aimed to investigate the anticancer potential of a Streptomyces sp. bacterial extract against diethylnitrosamine (DEN)–induced liver cancer in Swiss albino mice and explore the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms. The ethyl acetate extract of a Streptomyces sp. was screened for its potential anticancer activities against HepG-2 using the MTT assay, and the IC50 was also determined. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometric analysis was used to identify the chemical constituents of the Streptomyces extract. Mice were administered DEN at the age of 2 weeks, and from week 32 until week 36 (4 weeks), they received two doses of Streptomyces extract (25 and 50 mg/kg body weight) orally daily. The Streptomyces extract contains 29 different compounds, according to the GC-MS analysis. The rate of HepG-2 growth was dramatically reduced by the Streptomyces extract. In the mice model. Streptomyces extract considerably lessened the negative effects of DEN on liver functions at both doses. Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels were significantly (p < 0.001) decreased, and P53 mRNA expression was increased, both of which were signs that Streptomyces extract was suppressing carcinogenesis. This anticancer effect was also supported by histological analysis. Streptomyces extract therapy additionally stopped DEN-induced alterations in hepatic oxidative stress and enhanced antioxidant activity. Additionally, Streptomyces extract reduced DEN-induced inflammation, as shown by the decline in interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) levels. Additionally, the Streptomyces extract administration dramatically boosted Bax and caspase-3 levels while decreasing Bcl-2 expressions in the liver according to the Immunohistochemistry examination. In summary, Streptomyces extract is reported here as a potent chemopreventive agent against hepatocellular carcinoma through multiple mechanisms, including inhibiting oxidative stress, cell apoptosis, and inflammation.
Human In Vitro Skin Models for Wound Healing and Wound Healing Disorders
Authors: Hofmann Elisabeth , Fink Julia , Pignet Anna-Lisa , Schwarz Anna , Schellnegger Marlies , Nischwitz Sebastian P. , Holzer-Geissler Judith C. J. , Kamolz Lars-Peter , Kotzbeck Petra
Published: March 2023

Skin wound healing is essential to health and survival. Consequently, high amounts of research effort have been put into investigating the cellular and molecular components involved in the wound healing process. The use of animal experiments has contributed greatly to the knowledge of wound healing, skin diseases, and the exploration of treatment options. However, in addition to ethical concerns, anatomical and physiological inter-species differences often influence the translatability of animal-based studies. Human in vitro skin models, which include essential cellular and structural components for wound healing analyses, would improve the translatability of results and reduce animal experiments during the preclinical evaluation of novel therapy approaches. In this review, we summarize in vitro approaches, which are used to study wound healing as well as wound healing-pathologies such as chronic wounds, keloids, and hypertrophic scars in a human setting.
Feature Extraction and Matching of Humanoid-Eye Binocular Images Based on SUSAN-SIFT Algorithm
Authors: Xia Xiaohua , Xiang Haoming , Cao Yusong , Ge Zhaokai , Jiang Zainan
Published: March 2023

Imitating the visual characteristics of human eyes is one of the important tasks of digital image processing and computer vision. Feature correspondence of humanoid-eye binocular images is a prerequisite for obtaining the fused image. Human eyes are more sensitive to edge, because it contains much information. However, existing matching methods usually fail in producing enough edge corresponding pairs for humanoid-eye images because of viewpoint and view direction differences. To this end, we propose a novel and effective feature matching algorithm based on edge points. The proposed method consists of four steps. First, the SUSAN operator is employed to detect features, for its outstanding edge feature extraction capability. Second, the input image is constructed into a multi-scale structure based on image pyramid theory, which is then used to compute simplified SIFT descriptors for all feature points. Third, a novel multi-scale descriptor is constructed, by stitching the simplified SIFT descriptor of each layer. Finally, the similarity of multi-scale descriptors is measured by bidirectional matching, and the obtained preliminary matches are refined by subsequent procedures, to achieve accurate matching results. We respectively conduct qualitative and quantitative experiments, which demonstrate that our method can robustly match feature points in humanoid-eye binocular image pairs, and achieve favorable performance under illumination changes compared to the state-of-the-art.
Reconstruction of Critical Sized Maxillofacial Defects Using Composite Allogeneic Tissue Engineering: Systematic Review of Current Literature
Authors: Ramezanzade Shaqayeq , Aeinehvand Mahsa , Ziaei Heliya , Khurshid Zohaib , Keyhan Seied Omid , Fallahi Hamid R. , Melville James C. , Saeinasab Morvarid , Sefat Farshid
Published: March 2023

The current review aimed to assess the reliability and efficacy of tissue-engineered composite grafts in the reconstruction of large maxillofacial defects resulting from trauma or a benign pathologic disease. A systematic review of the literature was conducted using PubMed/Medline, Embase, and Scopus up to March 2022. The eligibility criteria included patients who had been treated with composite allogeneic tissue engineering for immediate/delayed reconstruction of large maxillofacial defects with minimum/no bone harvesting site. In the initial search, 2614 papers were obtained, and finally, 13 papers were eligible to be included in the current study. Most included papers were case reports or case series. A total of 144 cases were enrolled in this systematic review. The mean age of the patients was 43.34 (age range: 9–89). Most studies reported a successful outcome. Bone tissue engineering for the reconstruction and regeneration of crucial-sized maxillofacial defects is an evolving science still in its infancy. In conclusion, this review paper and the current literature demonstrate the potential for using large-scale transplantable, vascularized, and customizable bone with the aim of reconstructing the large maxillofacial bony defects in short-term follow-ups.
Estradiol Detection for Aquaculture Exploiting Plasmonic Spoon-Shaped Biosensors
Authors: Arcadio Francesco , Seggio Mimimorena , Zeni Luigi , Bossi Alessandra Maria , Cennamo Nunzio
Published: March 2023

In this work, a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) biosensor based on a spoon-shaped waveguide combined with an estrogen receptor (ERα) was developed and characterized for the detection and the quantification of estradiol in real water samples. The fabrication process for realizing the SPR platform required a single step consisting of metal deposition on the surface of a polystyrene spoon-shaped waveguide featuring a built-in measuring cell. The biosensor was achieved by functionalizing the bowl sensitive surface with a specific estrogen receptor (ERα) that was able to bind the estradiol. In a first phase, the biosensor tests were performed in a phosphate buffer solution obtaining a limit of detection (LOD) equal to 0.1 pM. Then, in order to evaluate the biosensor’s response in different real matrices related to aquaculture, its performances were examined in seawater and freshwater. The experimental results support the possibility of using the ERα-based biosensor for the screening of estradiol in both matrices.
Microfluidic Based Organ-on-Chips and Biomedical Application
Authors: Li Qiushi , Tong Zhaoduo , Mao Hongju
Published: March 2023

Organ-on-a-Chip is a microfluidic cell culture device manufactured via microchip fabrication methods [...]
Special Issue “Women in Biosensors”—The First Edition
Authors: Cristea Cecilia
Published: March 2023

This Special Issue entitled “Women in Biosensors” has been launched to celebrate and highlight the achievements of women in the biosensors research area, presenting biosensor-related work performed in groups leaded by women scientists [...]
Optical Detection of Cancer Cells Using Lab-on-a-Chip
Authors: García-Hernández Luis , Martínez-Martínez Eduardo , Pazos-Solís Denni , Aguado-Preciado Javier , Dutt Ateet , Chávez-Ramírez Abraham , Korgel Brian , Sharma Ashutosh , Oza Goldie
Published: March 2023

The global need for accurate and efficient cancer cell detection in biomedicine and clinical diagnosis has driven extensive research and technological development in the field. Precision, high-throughput, non-invasive separation, detection, and classification of individual cells are critical requirements for successful technology. Lab-on-a-chip devices offer enormous potential for solving biological and medical problems and have become a priority research area for microanalysis and manipulating cells. This paper reviews recent developments in the detection of cancer cells using the microfluidics-based lab-on-a-chip method, focusing on describing and explaining techniques that use optical phenomena and a plethora of probes for sensing, amplification, and immobilization. The paper describes how optics are applied in each experimental method, highlighting their advantages and disadvantages. The discussion includes a summary of current challenges and prospects for cancer diagnosis.
Pharmacological Modulation of the MIP-1 Family and Their Receptors Reduces Neuropathic Pain Symptoms and Influences Morphine Analgesia: Evidence from a Mouse Model
Authors: Ciechanowska Agata , Pawlik Katarzyna , Ciapała Katarzyna , Mika Joanna
Published: March 2023

Neuropathic pain pathophysiology is not fully understood, but it was recently shown that MIP-1 family members (CCL3, CCL4, and CCL9) have strong pronociceptive properties. Our goal was to examine how pharmacological modulation of these chemokines and their receptors (CCR1 and CCR5) influence hypersensitivity after nerve injury in Albino Swiss male mice. The spinal changes in the mRNA/protein levels of the abovementioned chemokines and their receptors were measured using RT-qPCR and ELISA/Western blot techniques in a mouse model of chronic constriction injury of the sciatic nerve. Behavioral studies were performed using the von Frey and cold plate tests after pharmacological treatment with neutralizing antibodies (nAbs) against chemokines or antagonists (CCR1-J113863, CCR5-TAK-220/AZD-5672) alone and in coadministration with morphine on Day 7, when the hypersensitivity was fully developed. Our results showed enhanced protein levels of CCL3 and CCL9 1 and 7 days after nerve injury. The single intrathecal administration of CCL3 or CCL9 nAb, J113863, TAK-220, or AZD-5672 diminished neuropathic pain symptoms and enhanced morphine analgesia. These findings highlight the important roles of CCL3 and CCL9 in neuropathic pain and additionally indicate that these chemokines play essential roles in opioid analgesia. The obtained results suggest CCR1 and CCR5 as new, interesting targets in neuropathy treatment.
Characteristics of Mild Cognitive Impairment and Associated Factors in MSA Patients
Authors: Shi Zhihong , Zhang Jinhong , Zhao Ping , Li Xiyu , Liu Shuai , Wu Hao , Jia Peifei , Ji Yong
Published: March 2023

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in multiple-system atrophy (MSA) patients is common but remains poorly characterized, and the related factors are unclear. This retrospective study included 200 consecutive patients with a clinical diagnosis of possible or probable MSA, 102 MSA patients with MCI (MSA-MCI), and 98 MSA patients with normal cognition (MSA-NC). Cognitive profiles were compared between MSA-MCI and MSA-NC patients using the MoCA. In addition, demographic as well as major motor and nonmotor symptom differences were compared between MSA-MCI and MSA-NC patients. The median MMSE score was 26 points. Overall, MSA-MCI was observed in 51% of patients, with predominant impairment in visuospatial, executive, and attention functions compared with MSA-NC patients. MSA-MCI patients were older (p = 0.015) and had a later onset age (p = 0.024) and a higher frequency of hypertension, motor onset, and MSA with the predominant parkinsonism (MSA-P) phenotype than MSA-NC patients. The positive rate of orthostatic hypotension (OH) in MSA-MCI patients was significantly decreased and depression/anxiety was significantly increased compared with MSA-NC patients (p = 0.004). Multivariate logistic analysis showed that motor onset was independently associated with MCI in MSA patients. MSA-MCI patients had impairment in visuospatial, executive, and attention functions. More prominent memory impairment was observed in MSA-P than in MSA-C patients. Motor onset was independently associated with MCI in MSA patients. MCI was commonly presented in MSA with more prominent memory impairment in MSA-P. Future follow-up studies are warranted to identify more factors that influence cognitive impairment in MSA.
Dissemination, Implementation, and Evaluation of an Effective School-Based Intervention to Promote Physical Activity in Adolescents: A Study Protocol
Authors: Bachouri-Muniesa Hisham , Lhuisset Léna , Aibar Alberto , Fabre Nicolas , Asún-Dieste Sonia , Bois Julien E. , Verloigne Maïté , Clemente José Antonio Julián , Dubertrand Lionel , Ribeiro José Carlos , García Bengoechea Enrique , Ibor-Bernalte Eduardo , Zaragoza Javier
Published: March 2023

Adolescents around the world do not engage in sufficient physical activity and the Spanish context is no exception. Understanding the educational context as a complex system, school-based multi-level and multi-component interventions seem to be an effective strategy to reverse this trend. Moreover, a co-creational approach seems to facilitate the mobilization of community partnerships and the engagement of stakeholders in the intervention process. This study aims to describe the dissemination, implementation, and evaluation process of an effective school-based intervention program in another setting using the replicating effective programs framework and a co-participatory approach. This study will be conducted in two Spanish secondary schools located in the region of Aragon (experimental vs. control school) in a sample of adolescents in the second grade (13–14 years old). To evaluate the effectiveness, different health behaviors such as physical activity, sleep, sedentary time with screens, nutrition, and psychosocial variables will be quantitatively measured at baseline and after the implementation of the intervention. Qualitative methods will also be used to better understand the implementation process and the co-creation approach, as well as to provide insights into the sustainability of the intervention program. The current study has the potential to provide strong information about the dissemination, implementation, and evaluation process of school-based programs to promote healthy behaviors among adolescents.
Intergenerational Integration in Community Building to Improve the Mental Health of Residents—A Case Study of Public Space
Authors: Wu Jianbin , Siu Kin Wai Michael , Zhang Linghao
Published: March 2023

This study defined intergenerational integration in communities at a theoretical level and verified whether a series of measures could facilitate negotiation and communication between community residents and other stakeholders to generate a positive and healthy community environment and gradually improve intergroup relations. Specifically, we applied community psychology and used Hongqiao New Village in Shanghai, China, as a research site to explore intergenerational conflict in public community spaces. The research was divided into two stages: an input stage and an output stage. In the input stage, participatory research and tea parties were used to deeply explore residents’ public space requirements. In the output stage, we tested the validity of the theory by using the Intergenerational Attitude Scale to investigate whether the intergenerational relationships were changed by the co-creation intervention. The results showed that the intervention caused a decrease in the incidence of conflict between residents using the square and caused some children to join the older groups in their activities. We thus propose a theoretical system model of intergenerational integration strategies that incorporates elements of integration, disagreement, and synergy in intergenerational interactions. Overall, this paper provides new ideas for building a community environment that supports mental health and improves intergenerational relationships and social well-being.
Older Adults’ Advance Aging and Life Satisfaction Levels: Effects of Lifestyles and Health Capabilities
Authors: Cho Dongwook , Cheon Wookwang
Published: March 2023

Many studies in the literature have examined older adults’ past and current lifestyles in either positive or negative association with their life satisfaction levels. Health capabilities naturally decline with aging and can consequently be related to older adults’ life satisfaction levels. Thus, the present study sought to examine the effects of age difference, lifestyles, and health capabilities on older adults’ life satisfaction levels. A total of 290 older adults from three clinical research centers in the United States completed a self-administered questionnaire on their lifestyles and life satisfaction levels, and their health capability assessments were evaluated. There was a significant effect of advancing age on life satisfaction levels among older adults. Additionally, engagement in exercise or physical activity significantly influenced life satisfaction levels. However, there were no statistical effects of vital signs and functional assessments of health capabilities on life satisfaction among older adults. The findings suggest that advancing age itself is the strongest factor in older adults’ life satisfaction. Additionally, engagement in exercise and physical activity can enhance life satisfaction levels as a supplemental factor among older adults. These findings can be beneficial to optimize life satisfaction levels through appropriate programs to encourage positive lifestyles among older adults.
Evaluation of the Smart Readiness Indicator for Educational Buildings
Authors: Plienaitis Gvidas , Daukšys Mindaugas , Demetriou Evi , Ioannou Byron , Fokaides Paris A. , Seduikyte Lina
Published: March 2023

The Smart Readiness Indicator (SRI) is an assessment scheme for the intelligence of buildings, which was introduced by the European Commission in the directive for the Energy Performance of Buildings in 2018. Since its introduction, many activities related to the maturation and employment of the SRI have been initiated. One of the adaptation needs of the SRI, revealed through public consultation with relevant stakeholders, is the requirement for a tailored SRI for different types of buildings. The aim of this study is to analyze possible scenarios to optimize the smartness performance, as addressed by the SRI score, in educational buildings. The subject of this study concerned campus buildings of the Kaunas University of Technology, in Lithuania. For the definition of the SRI, the calculation sheet developed by the European Commission was used. The effect of the improvements in the smartness performance of buildings on their energy efficiency was examined with the use of a whole-building, BIM-based energy assessment tool (IDA-ICE). The findings of this study revealed that despite the improvement in the automation and control levels of the building heating system, the maximum SRI values achieved deviate significantly by a high-smartness level. This study revealed the importance of services at a city level towards achieving the optimal smartness levels at a building unit level. It also delivered useful findings related to the linkage between energy and smartness performance of a building. The policy implication of the study findings also covers topics relevant to utilities management at a district level, as well as on the need for tailored SRI services catalogs for different types of buildings.
Impacts of Crisis on the Real Estate Market Depending on the Development of the Region
Authors: Hromada Eduard , Heralová Renáta Schneiderová , Čermáková Klára , Piecha Marian , Kadeřábková Božena
Published: March 2023

The article compares the effects of crisis on the real estate market in two regions of the Czech Republic that differ from a macroeconomic point of view. The region of Prague represents the rich and developed region while the Karlovy Vary region struggles with many socio-economic and structural problems. An analysis was performed for the time period of 2018 to 2022. It analyzed the development of apartment prices in both regions, the availability of housing, the turnover of the real estate market in terms of the number of apartment sales, the development of liens on real estate, the number of apartment transfers from state property to private ownership, and the development of the number of real estate foreclosures. The basis for creating statistical outputs is the EVAL software, which was developed by one of the co-authors of this article. The EVAL software collects price offers of apartments offered for sale and rent throughout the Czech Republic and collects publicly available data from the cadastral office. The authors found that the real estate market experienced a significant turnaround in the volume of mortgage loans granted in 2022. This decline led to a significant drop in the total volume of real estate transactions. The findings suggest that potential buyers should wait for property prices to drop before buying, while rental property owners and investors can take advantage of the increased demand for properties.
Modifying the Sand Concrete with Recycled Tyre Polymer Fiber to Increase the Crack Resistance of Building Structures
Authors: Samchenko Svetlana V. , Larsen Oksana A.
Published: March 2023

Recently, the use of recycled tyre polymer fiber derived from waste tires as a concrete reinforcement has received a great deal of attention. The recycled tyre polymer fiber is a promising additive to concrete for building materials which require resistance against cracking. In this work, the effect of treated and untreated fiber on the properties of sand concrete was studied. It was shown that recycled tyre polymer fiber consists mainly of different fractions of crumb rubber, fiber, and metal fiber. The main polymer components in the fiber are polyamide and polyester threads of 6.5 mm length (l) and 0.05 mm diameter (d); the ratio l/d = 150; and the average fiber density is 0.923 g/cm3. It was established that the addition of untreated recycled tyre polymer fiber in the amounts of 11 and 19 kg/m3 into sand concrete leads to a decrease in compressive and flexural strengths by 15% and 21%, respectively. The reinforcement of concrete with the treated fiber in the amounts of 5 and 10 kg/m3 increases the flexural strength by 14% and 23.4%, respectively. The prismatic strength of the concrete which contents 5 and 10 kg/m3 of the treated polymer fiber was lower than that of ordinary concrete by 10.8% and 4.6%, respectively. The obtained results showed that the use of recycled tyre polymer fiber increases the crack resistance of concrete. The recycled tyre polymer fiber can be used as a cost-effective alternative to other types of low-modulus fibers to produce durable building materials.
Local Consolidative Therapy May Have Prominent Clinical Efficacy in Patients with EGFR-Mutant Advanced Lung Adenocarcinoma Treated with First-Line Afatinib
Authors: Tsai Ming-Ju , Hung Jen-Yu , Ma Juei-Yang , Tsai Yu-Chen , Wu Kuan-Li , Lee Mei-Hsuan , Kuo Chia-Yu , Chuang Cheng-Hao , Lee Tai-Huang , Lee Yen-Lung , Huang Chun-Ming , Shen Mei-Chiou , Yang Chih-Jen , Chong Inn-Wen
Published: March 2023

Afatinib is an irreversible tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) targeting the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), which is utilized for the treatment of patients with advanced lung cancer that harbors EGFR mutations. No studies have evaluated the clinical efficacy of LCT in patients treated with first-line afatinib. In this study, we retrospectively enrolled patients with advanced lung adenocarcinomas harboring susceptible EGFR mutations who were diagnosed and treated with first-line afatinib in three hospitals. A total of 254 patients were enrolled, including 30 (12%) patients who received LCT (15 patients received definitive radiotherapy for the primary lung mass and 15 patients received curative surgery). Patients who received LCT had a significantly longer PFS than those who did not (median PFS: 32.8 vs. 14.5 months, p = 0.0008). Patients who received LCT had significantly longer OS than those who did not (median OS: 67.1 vs. 34.5 months, p = 0.0011). Multivariable analysis showed LCT was an independent prognostic factor for improved PFS (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] [95% confidence interval (CI)]: 0.44 [0.26–0.73], p = 0.0016) and OS (aHR [95% CI]: 0.26 [0.12–0.54], p = 0.0004). The analyses using propensity score-weighting showed consistent results. We conclude that LCT may improve clinical outcomes, in terms of PFS and OS, in patients with advanced EGFR-mutant lung adenocarcinomas who are treated with first-line afatinib.