bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Generalized Shifted Airfoil Polynomials of the Second Kind to Solve a Class of Singular Electrohydrodynamic Fluid Model of Fractional Order
Authors: Srivastava Hari M. , Izadi Mohammad
Published: January 2023

In this manuscript, we find the numerical solutions of a class of fractional-order differential equations with singularity and strong nonlinearity pertaining to electrohydrodynamic flow in a circular cylindrical conduit. The nonlinearity of the underlying model is removed by the quasilinearization method (QLM) and we obtain a family of linearized equations. By making use of the generalized shifted airfoil polynomials of the second kind (SAPSK) together with some appropriate collocation points as the roots of SAPSK, we arrive at an algebraic system of linear equations to be solved in an iterative manner. The error analysis and convergence properties of the SAPSK are established in the L2 and L∞ norms. Through numerical simulations, it is shown that the proposed hybrid QLM-SAPSK approach is not only capable of tackling the inherit singularity at the origin, but also produces effective numerical solutions to the model problem with different nonlinearity parameters and two fractional order derivatives. The accuracy of the present technique is checked via the technique of residual error functions. The QLM-SAPSK technique is simple and efficient for solving the underlying electrohydrodynamic flow model. The computational outcomes are accurate in comparison with those of numerical values reported in the literature.
Proportional-Integral-Derivative Controller Based-Artificial Rabbits Algorithm for Load Frequency Control in Multi-Area Power Systems
Authors: El-Sehiemy Ragab , Shaheen Abdullah , Ginidi Ahmed , Al-Gahtani Saad F.
Published: January 2023

A major problem in power systems is achieving a match between the load demand and generation demand, where security, dependability, and quality are critical factors that need to be provided to power producers. This paper proposes a proportional–integral–derivative (PID) controller that is optimally designed using a novel artificial rabbits algorithm (ARA) for load frequency control (LFC) in multi-area power systems (MAPSs) of two-area non-reheat thermal systems. The PID controller incorporates a filter with such a derivative coefficient to reduce the effects of the accompanied noise. In this regard, single objective function is assessed based on time-domain simulation to minimize the integral time-multiplied absolute error (ITAE). The proposed ARA adjusts the PID settings to their best potential considering three dissimilar test cases with different sets of disturbances, and the results from the designed PID controller based on the ARA are compared with various published techniques, including particle swarm optimization (PSO), differential evolution (DE), JAYA optimizer, and self-adaptive multi-population elitist (SAMPE) JAYA. The comparisons show that the PID controller’s design, which is based on the ARA, handles the load frequency regulation in MAPSs for the ITAE minimizations with significant effectiveness and success where the statistical analysis confirms its superiority. Considering the load change in area 1, the proposed ARA can acquire significant percentage improvements in the ITAE values of 1.949%, 3.455%, 2.077% and 1.949%, respectively, with regard to PSO, DE, JAYA and SAMPE-JAYA. Considering the load change in area 2, the proposed ARA can acquire significant percentage improvements in the ITAE values of 7.587%, 8.038%, 3.322% and 2.066%, respectively, with regard to PSO, DE, JAYA and SAMPE-JAYA. Considering simultaneous load changes in areas 1 and 2, the proposed ARA can acquire significant improvements in the ITAE values of 60.89%, 38.13%, 55.29% and 17.97%, respectively, with regard to PSO, DE, JAYA and SAMPE-JAYA.
A Method to Fit Phase Diagrams of Slow-Rotation Pulsars with Accretion Columns
Authors: Silva Rodrigo R. , de Lima Rafael C. R. , Coelho Jaziel G. , Stecchini Paulo E. , de Liz Caroline M. , de Araujo José C. N.
Published: January 2023

We demonstrate a method to simulate a pulse profile of the emission of accretion columns in a neutron star. Given a set of parameters that characterize the star, e.g., mass and radius, and the positions and shapes of the accretion columns, the pulse profile can be calculated and compared with real data. Some characteristics of phase diagrams are shown considering an accretion column in the form of a cone trunk and also in the form of a cylinder. Furthermore, in our first approach we develop a combination between a genetic algorithm and a Bayesian sampling algorithm to constrain some variables. Finally, as an example, we apply the method to observed data of source 1A 0535+262.
Drying of Hierarchically Organized Porous Silica Monoliths–Comparison of Evaporative and Supercritical Drying
Authors: Kohns Richard , Torres-Rodríguez Jorge , Euchler Daniel , Seyffertitz Malina , Paris Oskar , Reichenauer Gudrun , Enke Dirk , Huesing Nicola
Published: January 2023

In this study, we present a detailed comparison between a conventional supercritical drying process and an evaporative drying technique for hierarchically organized porous silica gel monoliths. These gels are based on a model system synthesized by the aqueous sol–gel processing of an ethylene-glycol-modified silane, resulting in a cellular, macroporous, strut-based network comprising anisotropic, periodically arranged mesopores formed by microporous amorphous silica. The effect of the two drying procedures on the pore properties (specific surface area, pore volume, and pore widths) and on the shrinkage of the monolith is evaluated through a comprehensive characterization by using nitrogen physisorption, electron microscopy, and small-angle X-ray scattering. It can clearly be demonstrated that for the hierarchically organized porous solids, the evaporative drying procedure can compete without the need for surface modification with the commonly applied supercritical drying in terms of the material and textural properties, such as specific surface area and pore volume. The thus obtained materials deliver a high specific surface area and exhibit overall comparable or even improved pore characteristics to monoliths prepared by supercritical drying. Additionally, the pore properties can be tailored to some extent by adjusting the drying conditions, such as temperature.
Distinct Roles of Histone Lysine Demethylases and Methyltransferases in Developmental Eye Disease
Authors: Reis Linda M. , Atilla Huban , Kannu Peter , Schneider Adele , Thompson Samuel , Bardakjian Tanya , Semina Elena V.
Published: January 2023

Histone lysine methyltransferase and demethylase enzymes play a central role in chromatin organization and gene expression through the dynamic regulation of histone lysine methylation. Consistent with this, genes encoding for histone lysine methyltransferases (KMTs) and demethylases (KDMs) are involved in complex human syndromes, termed congenital regulopathies. In this report, we present several lines of evidence for the involvement of these genes in developmental ocular phenotypes, suggesting that individuals with structural eye defects, especially when accompanied by craniofacial, neurodevelopmental and growth abnormalities, should be examined for possible variants in these genes. We identified nine heterozygous damaging genetic variants in KMT2D (5) and four other histone lysine methyltransferases/demethylases (KMT2C, SETD1A/KMT2F, KDM6A and KDM5C) in unrelated families affected with developmental eye disease, such as Peters anomaly, sclerocornea, Axenfeld-Rieger spectrum, microphthalmia and coloboma. Two families were clinically diagnosed with Axenfeld-Rieger syndrome and two were diagnosed with Peters plus-like syndrome; others received no specific diagnosis prior to genetic testing. All nine alleles were novel and five of them occurred de novo; five variants resulted in premature truncation, three were missense changes and one was an in-frame deletion/insertion; and seven variants were categorized as pathogenic or likely pathogenic and two were variants of uncertain significance. This study expands the phenotypic spectra associated with KMT and KDM factors and highlights the importance of genetic testing for correct clinical diagnosis.
Genome-Wide Identification of DUF668 Gene Family and Expression Analysis under Drought and Salt Stresses in Sweet Potato [Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam]
Authors: Liu Enliang , Li Zhiqiang , Luo Zhengqian , Xu Linli , Jin Ping , Ji Shun , Zhou Guohui , Wang Zhenyang , Zhou Zhilin , Zhang Hua
Published: January 2023

The domain of unknown function 668 (DUF668) is a gene family that plays a vital role in responses to adversity coercion stresses in plant. However, the function of the DUF668 gene family is not fully understood in sweet potato. In this study, bioinformatics methods were used to analyze the number, physicochemical properties, evolution, structure, and promoter cis-acting elements of the IbDUF668 family genes, and RNA-seq and qRT–PCR were performed to detect gene expression and their regulation under hormonal and abiotic stress. A total of 14 IbDUF668 proteins were identified in sweet potato, distributed on nine chromosomes. By phylogenetic analysis, IbDUF668 proteins can be divided into two subfamilies. Transcriptome expression profiling revealed that many genes from DUF668 in sweet potato showed specificity and differential expression under cold, heat, drought, salt and hormones (ABA, GA3 and IAA). Four genes (IbDUF668-6, 7, 11 and 13) of sweet potato were significantly upregulated by qRT-PCR under ABA, drought and NaCl stress. Results suggest that the DUF668 gene family is involved in drought and salt tolerance in sweet potato, and it will further provide the basic information of DUF668 gene mechanisms in plants.
Genome-Wide Identification of WD40 Proteins in Cucurbita maxima Reveals Its Potential Functions in Fruit Development
Authors: Chen Chen , Yang Yating , Pan Liu , Xia Wenhao , Xu Lanruoyan , Hua Bing , Zhang Zhiping , Miao Minmin
Published: January 2023

WD40 proteins, a super gene family in eukaryotes, are involved in multiple biological processes. Members of this family have been identified in several plants and shown to play key roles in various development processes, including acting as scaffolding molecules with other proteins. However, WD40 proteins have not yet been systematically analyzed and identified in Cucurbita maxima. In this study, 231 WD40 proteins (CmWD40s) were identified in C. maxima and classified into five clusters. Eleven subfamilies were identified based on different conserved motifs and gene structures. The CmWD40 genes were distributed in 20 chromosomes; 5 and 33 pairs of CmWD40s were distinguished as tandem and segmental duplications, respectively. Overall, 58 pairs of orthologous WD40 genes in C. maxima and Arabidopsis thaliana, and 56 pairs of orthologous WD40 genes in C. maxima and Cucumis sativus were matched. Numerous CmWD40s had diverse expression patterns in fruits, leaf, stem, and root. Several genes were involved in responses to NaCl. The expression pattern of CmWD40s suggested their key role in fruit development and abiotic stress response. Finally, we identified 14 genes which might be involved in fruit development. Our results provide valuable basis for further functional verification of CmWD40s in C. maxima.
Molecular Mapping of Biofortification Traits in Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Using a High-Density SNP Based Linkage Map
Authors: Jadon Vasudha , Sharma Shashi , Krishna Hari , Krishnappa Gopalareddy , Gajghate Rahul , Devate Narayana Bhat , Panda Kusuma Kumari , Jain Neelu , Singh Pradeep Kumar , Singh Gyanendra Pratap
Published: January 2023

A set of 188 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) derived from a cross between a high-yielding Indian bread wheat cultivar HD2932 and a synthetic hexaploid wheat (SHW) Synthetic 46 derived from tetraploid Triticum turgidum (AA, BB 2n = 28) and diploid Triticum tauschii (DD, 2n = 14) was used to identify novel genomic regions associated in the expression of grain iron concentration (GFeC), grain zinc concentration (GZnC), grain protein content (GPC) and thousand kernel weight (TKW). The RIL population was genotyped using SNPs from 35K Axiom® Wheat Breeder’s Array and 34 SSRs and phenotyped in two environments. A total of nine QTLs including five for GPC (QGpc.iari_1B, QGpc.iari_4A, QGpc.iari_4B, QGpc.iari_5D, and QGpc.iari_6B), two for GFeC (QGfec.iari_5B and QGfec.iari_6B), and one each for GZnC (QGznc.iari_7A) and TKW (QTkw.iari_4B) were identified. A total of two stable and co-localized QTLs (QGpc.iari_4B and QTkw.iari_4B) were identified on the 4B chromosome between the flanking region of Xgwm149–AX-94559916. In silico analysis revealed that the key putative candidate genes such as P-loop containing nucleoside triphosphatehydrolase, Nodulin-like protein, NAC domain, Purine permease, Zinc-binding ribosomal protein, Cytochrome P450, Protein phosphatase 2A, Zinc finger CCCH-type, and Kinesin motor domain were located within the identified QTL regions and these putative genes are involved in the regulation of iron homeostasis, zinc transportation, Fe, Zn, and protein remobilization to the developing grain, regulation of grain size and shape, and increased nitrogen use efficiency. The identified novel QTLs, particularly stable and co-localized QTLs are useful for subsequent use in marker-assisted selection (MAS).
Transcriptome Profiling of Developing Testes and First Wave of Spermatogenesis in the Rat
Authors: Zhang Yan , Liu Zaixia , Yun Xia , Batu Baiyin , Yang Zheng , Zhang Xinlai , Zhang Wenguang , Liu Taodi
Published: January 2023

Spermatogenesis is a complicated course of several rigorous restrained steps that spermatogonial stem cells undergo to develop into highly specialized spermatozoa; however, specific genes and signal pathways, which regulate the amplification, differentiation and maturation of these cells, remain unclear. We performed bioinformatics analyses to investigate the dynamic changes of the gene expression patterns at three time points in the course of the first wave of rat spermatogenesis. Differently expressed genes (DEGs) were identified, and the features of DEGs were further analyzed with GO (Gene Ontology), KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes) and Short Time-series Expression Miner (STEM). A total of 2954 differentially expressed genes were identified. By using STEM, the top 10 key genes were selected in the profile according to the enrichment results, and the distinguishable biological functions encoded by these DEGs were automatically divided into three parts. Genes from 6, 8 and 10 days were related to biosynthesis, immune response and cell junction, and genes from 14, 15 and 16 days were related to energy metabolic pathways. The results also suggest that genes from 29, 31 and 35 days may shift metabolic to sperm motility, sperm flagellum and cilium movement.
Comparison of Earthquake and Moisture Effects on Rockfall-Runouts Using 3D Models and Orthorectified Aerial Photos
Authors: Al-Shaar Mohammad , Gérard Pierre-Charles , Faour Ghaleb , Al-Shaar Walid , Adjizian-Gérard Jocelyne
Published: January 2023

Rockfall hazard gains popularity nowadays among researchers in different scientific fields, decision-makers and urban planners. The assessment of rockfall hazard requires detection, mapping and estimating the maximum travel distance that rock boulders may reach, commonly known as “rockfall runout”. This latter can change significantly under the effects of different triggering factors such as soil conditions, chemical, physical and geological rock properties. However, comparing and analyzing these different effects represents, to the best of our knowledge, one of the newest scientific challenges that need to be addressed. This paper presents a complete methodologic approach aiming to assess the rockfall hazard through runout estimation in three different conditions: (i) gravity, (ii) earthquakes, and (iii) the presence of moisture along the slope. The “Mtein” Village and its surrounding areas in the Mount Lebanon region were chosen as the study area because there have been numerous historic rockfalls and various-sized rocks, such as cobbles and boulders, scattered throughout the area. Thus, three-dimensional simulations were conducted using the Rockyfor3D software and aerial photos for the year 1999 to assess the rockfall runout, the energy curves, and the number of deposited rocks. The results reveal that earthquakes have the highest triggering effect on rockfall and that moisture has a damping effect on RFs by decreasing the kinetic energy. The study shows the importance of taking into consideration the influence of triggering factors as well as rock density on rockfall runout and hazard.
Assessment of Knowledge, Perception, Experience and Phobia toward Corticosteroids Use among the General Public in the Era of COVID-19: A Multinational Study
Authors: Barakat Muna , Elnaem Mohamed Hassan , Al-Rawashdeh Amani , Othman Bayan , Ibrahim Sarah , Abdelaziz Doaa H. , Alshweiki Anas O. , Kharaba Zelal , Malaeb Diana , Syed Nabeel Kashan , Nashwan Abdulqadir J. , Adam Mohammed Fathelrahman , Alzayer Reem , Albarbandi Mohammad Saleh , Abu-Farha Rana K. , Sallam Malik , Barakat Yasmeen , Mansour Noha O.
Published: January 2023

Background: Corticosteroids play a significant role in managing the vast majority of inflammatory and immunologic conditions. To date, population-based studies on knowledge and attitudes concerning corticosteroids are scarce. This study aims to comprehensively assess knowledge, perception, experience and phobia toward corticosteroid use among the general population in the era of COVID-19. Methods: A cross-sectional self-administrated questionnaire was used to collect the data from 6 countries. Knowledge and corticophobia scores, descriptive statistics and logistic regression were computed. Results: A total of 2354 participants were enrolled in this study; the majority were females (61.6%) with an average age of 30. Around 61.9% had been infected previously with COVID-19, and about one-third of the participants had experience with corticosteroid use. The mean knowledge score was relatively satisfactory (8.7 ± 4.5 out of 14), and Corticophobia ranked a high score in all countries. Age, female gender, and history of COVID-19 were positively correlated with developing corticophobia. Conclusion: Our study highlights that the general knowledge about steroids was satisfactory. However, the phobia toward its use upon indication is high. Therefore, enhancing awareness and providing essential counseling regarding the rational use of corticosteroids may reduce corticophobia.
Modeling Consequences of COVID-19 and Assessing Its Epidemiological Parameters: A System Dynamics Approach
Authors: Rehman Ateekh Ur , Mian Syed Hammad , Usmani Yusuf Siraj , Abidi Mustufa Haider , Mohammed Muneer Khan
Published: January 2023

In 2020, coronavirus (COVID-19) was declared a global pandemic and it remains prevalent today. A necessity to model the transmission of the virus has emerged as a result of COVID-19’s exceedingly contagious characteristics and its rapid propagation throughout the world. Assessing the incidence of infection could enable policymakers to identify measures to halt the pandemic and gauge the required capacity of healthcare centers. Therefore, modeling the susceptibility, exposure, infection, and recovery in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic is crucial for the adoption of interventions by regulatory authorities. Fundamental factors, such as the infection rate, mortality rate, and recovery rate, must be considered in order to accurately represent the behavior of the pandemic using mathematical models. The difficulty in creating a mathematical model is in identifying the real model variables. Parameters might vary significantly across models, which can result in variations in the simulation results because projections primarily rely on a particular dataset. The purpose of this work was to establish a susceptible–exposed–infected–recovered (SEIR) model describing the propagation of the COVID-19 outbreak throughout the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). The goal of this study was to derive the essential COVID-19 epidemiological factors from actual data. System dynamics modeling and design of experiment approaches were used to determine the most appropriate combination of epidemiological parameters and the influence of COVID-19. This study investigates how epidemiological variables such as seasonal amplitude, social awareness impact, and waning time can be adapted to correctly estimate COVID-19 scenarios such as the number of infected persons on a daily basis in KSA. This model can also be utilized to ascertain how stress (or hospital capacity) affects the percentage of hospitalizations and the number of deaths. Additionally, the results of this study can be used to establish policies or strategies for monitoring or restricting COVID-19 in Saudi Arabia.
The Effectiveness of Family Medicine-Driven Interprofessional Collaboration on the Readmission Rate of Older Patients
Authors: Ohta Ryuichi , Sano Chiaki
Published: January 2023

Interprofessional collaboration (IPC) for older patient care among family physicians, dentists, therapists, nutritionists, nurses, and pharmacists in the rural hospital care of older patients could improve the hospital readmission rate. However, there is a lack of interventional studies on IPC for improving the readmission rate among Japanese older patients in rural hospitals. This quasi-experimental study was performed on patients >65 years who were discharged from a rural community hospital. The intervention was IPC implementation with effective information sharing and comprehensive management of older patients’ conditions for effective discharge and readmission prevention; implementation started on 1 April 2021. The study lasted 2 years, from 1 April 2021 to 31 March 2022 for the intervention group and from 1 April 2020 to 31 March 2021 for the comparison group. The average participant age was 79.86 (standard deviation = 15.38) years and the proportion of men was 45.0%. The Cox hazard model revealed that IPC intervention could reduce the readmission rate after adjustment for sex, serum albumin, polypharmacy, dependent condition, and Charlson Comorbidity Index score (hazard ratio = 0.66, 95% confidence interval: 0.54–0.81). Rural IPC intervention can improve inpatient care for older patients and decrease readmission rates. Thus, for effective rural IPC interventions, family physicians in hospitals should proactively collaborate with various medical professionals to improve inpatient health outcomes.
It’s a Doge’s Life: Examining Term Limits in Venetian Doges’ Life Tenure
Authors: Merelo Juan J.
Published: January 2023

During most of the lifespan of the Venetian republic, doges (the name their presidents received) were elected for life. However, a long tenure was a rare event, which effectively resulted in term limits, as has already been reported by several authors. In this paper, we examine the length of these tenures and their evolution during the existence of the Venetian republic, following Smith et al.’s claim that specific events in Venetian history caused this shortening, but also the dates and possibly event or events that effectively caused that limitation by design. Finally, we will discuss the causes of this limitation and its effective consequences.
Pectin, Lignin and Disease Resistance in Brassica napus L.: An Update
Authors: Wang Duoduo , Lu Qianhui , Jin Shunda , Fan Xiangyun , Ling Hui
Published: January 2023

The plant cell wall is dynamically modified during host–pathogen interactions and acts as a crucial factor controlling plant immunity. In the context of recently revised models of plant primary cell walls (PCWs), pectin is considered to be important in determining the mechanical properties of PCWs. A secondary cell wall is present in some cell types and lignin is normally present and acts to strengthen wall rigidity. In this review, we summarize the recent advances in understanding cell-wall-mediated defense responses against pathogens in Brassica napus L. (B. napus). A major part of this response involves pectin and lignin, and these two major cell wall components contribute greatly to immune responses in B. napus. Crosstalk between pectin and lignin metabolism has been detected in B. napus upon pathogen infection, suggesting a synergistic action of pectin and lignin metabolism in regulating cell wall integrity as well as wall-mediated immunity. The transcriptional regulation of cell-wall-mediated immunity in B. napus along with that in Arabidopsis is discussed, and directions for future work are proposed for a better understanding of wall-mediated plant immunity in B. napus.
Effects of Different Irradiance Conditions on Photosynthetic Activity, Photosystem II, Rubisco Enzyme Activity, Chloroplast Ultrastructure, and Chloroplast-Related Gene Expression in Clematis tientaiensis Leaves
Authors: Ma Xiaohua , Zhou Qin , Hu Qingdi , Zhang Xule , Zheng Jian , Qian Renjuan
Published: January 2023

Clematis is a perennial ornamental vine known as the “Vine Queen” for its gorgeous floral color and rich flower shape. Clematis tientaiensis, an endangered plant, is a key protected wild plant and a rare breeding parent of Clematis because of its extremely high ornamental value. Light environment is one of the important environmental factors affecting the space distribution and the size of C. tientaiensis population. One-year-old homogenous and healthy potted C. tientaiensis plants were grown under four different light intensities (T1: 1800 ± 30/0 µmol m−2 s−1; T2: 1500 ± 30/0 µmol m−2 s−1; T3: 1200 ± 30/0 µmol m−2 s−1; T4: 900 ± 30/0 µmol m−2 s−1). This study analyzed the potential adaptive mechanism of C. tientaiensis in response to irradiance by investigating the photosynthesis, rapid light curve, chloroplast ultrastructure, Rubisco activase enzyme (RAC), Rubisco enzyme, amino acids, and gene expression under four irradiance treatments. High light caused the leaves chlorosis and yellowing, reduced the net photosynthetic rate (Pn), stomatal conductance (Gs), RAC and Rubisco enzyme activity; the quantum yield of unregulated energy dissipation [Y(NO)], and increased the content of eight amino acids content. The expression of psbA, psbB, psbC, and Psb(OEC) were down-regulated with decreasing irradiance. The results showed that C. tientaiensis plants grown under T1 (1800 ± 30 µmol m−2 s−1) irradiance were in danger of absorbing more light energy than they could use for photosynthesis, while they exhibited good adaptability to the T3 (1200 ± 30 µmol m−2 s−1) irradiance, and the PSII reaction center and Rubisco and RCA enzymes could be the key points in response to high light stress, which also emphasized the importance of appropriate light management practices for promoting the growth and population expansion of C. tientaiensis.
Pricing Ability of Carhart Four-Factor and Fama–French Three-Factor Models: Empirical Evidence from Morocco
Authors: Benali Mimoun , Lahboub Karima , El Bouhadi Abdelhamid
Published: January 2023

In this study, the reliability of the Fama–French Three-Factor model (FF3F) and the Carhart Four-Factor model (C4F) is examined thoroughly. In order to determine which of the asset pricing models is the best to explain portfolio returns on the Moroccan share market, these two models are indeed evaluated in the Moroccan market. Additionally, it is worth mentioning that five years of monthly data from the firms that listed on the Casablanca Stock Exchange are used in this research, as well over the period of nine years. The results of this inquiry show that these models barely have a partial hold on the Casablanca Stock Exchange (CSE), which limits their ability to predict the cross-sections of returns. In accordance with this, the C4F model has somewhat greater explanatory power than the FF3F Model. Moreover, our research adds to the body of knowledge by inserting two learned material asset pricing theories to the proof in the market, which is still evolving, and where distinctive anomalistic traits still exist (the CSE).
Geospatial Network Analysis and Origin-Destination Clustering of Bike-Sharing Activities during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Xin Rui , Ding Linfang , Ai Bo , Yang Min , Zhu Ruoxin , Cao Bin , Meng Liqiu
Published: January 2023

Bike-sharing data are an important data source to study urban mobility in the context of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). However, studies that focus on different bike-sharing activities including both riding and rebalancing are sparse. This limits the comprehensiveness of the analysis of the impact of the pandemic on bike-sharing. In this study, we combine geospatial network analysis and origin-destination (OD) clustering methods to explore the spatiotemporal change patterns hidden in the bike-sharing data during the pandemic. Different from previous research that mostly focuses on the analysis of riding behaviors, we also extract and analyze the rebalancing data of a bike-sharing system. In this study, we propose a framework including three components: (1) a geospatial network analysis component for a statistical and spatiotemporal description of the overall riding flows and behaviors, (2) an origin-destination clustering component that compensates the network analysis by identifying large flow groups in which individual edges start from and end at nearby stations, and (3) a rebalancing data analysis component for the understanding of the rebalancing patterns during the pandemic. We test our framework using bike-sharing data collected in New York City. The results show that the spatial distribution of the main riding flows changed significantly in the pandemic compared to pre-pandemic time. For example, many riding trips seemed to expand the purposes of riding for work–home commuting to more leisure activities. Furthermore, we found that the changes in the riding flow patterns led to changes in the spatiotemporal distributions of bike rebalancing, such as the shifting of the rebalancing peak time and the increased ratio between the number of rebalancing and the total number of rides. Policy implications are also discussed based on our findings.
Mining TCGA Database for Genes with Prognostic Value in Breast Cancer
Authors: Filippi Alexandru , Mocanu Maria-Magdalena
Published: January 2023

The aim of the study was to use transcriptomics data to identify genes associated with advanced/aggressive breast cancer and their effect on survival outcomes. We used the publicly available The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database to obtain RNA sequence data from patients with less than five years survival (Poor Prognosis, n = 101), patients with greater than five years survival (Good Prognosis, n = 200), as well as unpaired normal tissue data (normal, n = 105). The data analyses performed included differential expression between groups and selection of subsets of genes, gene ontology, cell enrichment analysis, and survival analyses. Gene ontology results showed significantly reduced enrichment in gene sets related to tumor immune microenvironment in Poor Prognosis and cell enrichment analysis confirmed significantly reduced numbers of macrophages M1, CD8 T cells, plasma cells and dendritic cells in samples in the Poor Prognosis samples compared with Good Prognosis. A subset of 742 genes derived from differential expression analysis as well as genes coding for immune checkpoint molecules was evaluated for their effect on overall survival. In conclusion, this study may contribute to the better understanding of breast cancer transcriptomics and provide possible targets for further research and eventual therapeutic interventions.
Nanostructured γ-Al2O3 Synthesis Using an Arc Discharge Method and its Application as an Antibacterial Agent against XDR Bacteria
Authors: Almotairy Awatif Rashed Z. , Amer A. M. , El-Kady Hadir , Elwakil Bassma H. , El-Khatib Mostafa , Eldrieny Ahmed M.
Published: January 2023

In the last few years, many efforts have been devoted to investigating the antibacterial activity of metal nanoparticles, especially against multidrug-resistant bacteria. Recently extensively drug-resistant (XDR) bacteria have emerged and caused a global threat. The purpose of this manuscript was to synthesize nanostructured γ-Al2O3 as an antibacterial agent against some XDRs. The results showed that Al2O3 was a mix of rod and spherical shapes in the nano range with diameters of less than 30 nm. The zeta potential was determined to estimate the surface charge for the synthesized γ-Al2O3, which was recorded as −34 ± 1.8 mV, indicating good stability. The synthesized nanostructured γ-Al2O3 showed a potent antibacterial activity against extensively drug-resistant Acinetobacter baumanii, with an inhibition zone diameter that reached 19 mm and a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) value that reached 2 µg/mL. The observed antibacterial activity of the prepared Al2O3 nanoparticles confirmed that the main mechanistic actions include bacterial cells apoptosis, ROS increment, cellular membrane disruption, and DNA damage. The cytotoxic effect (CC50) of the prepared γ-Al2O3-NPs was 1250 µg/mL in a normal human lung fibroblast cell line (WI-38 cells). It can be concluded that the synthesized γ-Al2O3 had an acceptable toxicity, which may pave the way for its use as a potent agent in the fight against XDR bacteria.
Heterogenous Preparations of Solution-Processable Cobalt Phthalocyanines for Carbon Dioxide Reduction Electrocatalysis
Authors: Tajbakhsh Elahe , McKearney Declan , Leznoff Daniel B. , Warren Jeffrey J.
Published: January 2023

The development and implementation of technology that can capture and transform carbon dioxide (CO2) is of ongoing interest. To that end, the integration of molecular electrocatalysts into devices is appealing because of the desirable features of molecules, such as the ability to modify active sites. Here, we explore how the identity of the aliphatic group in 1,4,8,11,15,18,22,25-octaalkoxyphthalocyanine cobalt(II) affects the catalytic behavior for heterogeneous CO2 reduction electrocatalysis. The alkyl R-groups correspond to n-butoxy, sec-butoxy, and 2-ethylhexoxy. All of the catalysts are soluble in organic solvents and are readily solution-processed. However, the larger 2-ethylhexoxy group showed solution aggregation behavior at concentrations ≥1 mM, and it was, in general, an inferior catalyst. The other two catalysts show comparable maximum currents, but the octa sec-butoxy-bearing catalyst showed larger CO2 reduction rate constants based on foot-of-the-wave analyses. This behavior is hypothesized to be due to the ability of the sec-butoxy groups to eliminate the ability of the alkoxy oxygen to block Co Sites via ligation. CO2 reduction activity is rationalized based on solid-state structures. Cobalt(II) phthalocyanine and its derivatives are known to be good CO2 reduction catalysts, but the results from this work suggest that straightforward incorporation of bulky groups can improve the processability and per site activity by discouraging aggregation.
Reverse Engineering of a Racing Motorbike Connecting Rod
Authors: Freddi Marco , Ferretti Patrich , Alessandri Giulia , Liverani Alfredo
Published: January 2023

The following scientific paper aims to analyze in detail the methodology for reverse engineering of a racing motorcycle connecting rod. The objective is to start with a product available on the market as a spare part, reconstruct its CAD model with a high standard of accuracy, then proceed with lightening modifications to arrive at a new, improved design. The innovative aspect of the procedure lies in the fact that in order to ensure accuracy on the order of a tenth of a millimeter during reconstruction, it was decided to use a FARO articulated arm laser to scan the component’s outer surface. By taking advantage of appropriate redesign CAD software (Geomagic Design X), a reconstruction can proceed within the high standard of accuracy imposed. In conclusion, the modifications made through material removal allow an improvement in product efficiency, ensuring high performance.
Machine Learning-Based Investigation of the 3D Printer Cooling Effect on Print Quality in Fused Filament Fabrication: A Cybersecurity Perspective
Authors: Si Haijun , Zhang Zhicheng , Huseynov Orkhan , Fidan Ismail , Hasan Syed Rafay , Mahmoud Mohamed
Published: January 2023

Additive manufacturing (AM), also known as three-dimensional (3D) printing, is the process of building a solid object in a layer-wise manner. Cybersecurity is a prevalent issue that appears more and more frequently as AM becomes popular. This paper focuses on the effect of fan speed on the printing quality and presents a plugin called Fan Speed Attack Detection (FSAD) that predicts and monitors fan speeds throughout the printing process. The goal of the plugin is to prevent cybersecurity attacks, specifically targeting fan speed. Using the proposed FSAD, any fan speed changes during the printing process are evaluated to see whether the printer can sustain the abnormal fan speed change and still maintain good print quality.
Early Smartphone App-Based Remote Diagnosis of Silent Atrial Fibrillation and Ventricular Fibrillation in a Patient with Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy Defibrillator
Authors: Kowal Dagmar , Katarzyńska-Szymańska Agnieszka , Prech Marek , Rubiś Błażej , Mitkowski Przemysław
Published: January 2023

Due to distressing statistics concerning cardiovascular diseases, remote monitoring of cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIED) has received a priority recommendation in daily patient care. However, most bedside systems available so far are not optimal due to limited patient adherence. We report that smartphone app technology communicating with CIED improved the patient’s engagement and adherence, as well as the accuracy of atrial and ventricular arrhythmias diagnosis, thus offering more efficient treatment and, consequently, better patient clinical outcomes. Our findings are in concordance with previously published results for implantable loop recorders and pacemakers, and provide new insight for heart failure patients with an implanted cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillator.
Characteristics of Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia Diagnosed in Adulthood: A Literature Review and Case Series
Authors: Hubska Joanna , Kępczyńska-Nyk Anna , Czady-Jurszewicz Katarzyna , Ambroziak Urszula
Published: January 2023

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is a group of autosomal recessive disorders characterized by impaired cortisol synthesis. CAH, depending on its clinical form, is usually diagnosed in the neonatal period, later in childhood, in adolescence, or in young adults. Herein, we report a case series of eight individuals in whom CAH was diagnosed between the ages of 18 and 81 years. Methods: We report on clinical presentations, hormonal tests, adrenal/gonadal imaging, and genetic findings. The clinical data of eight people with CAH, including four women (46, XX) and four men (46, XY), were reviewed. A genetic analysis of the cytochrome P450 family 21 subfamily A member 2 (CYP21A2) gene was performed in six patients. A comprehensive literature review was also conducted. Case series: Partial cortisol deficiency was found in all patients. The most frequent genotype was the homozygotic I173N mutation in CYP21A2. Adrenal masses were detected in seven patients, except for the youngest. Most of the patients were of short stature. Hypogonadotropic hypogonadism was detected in two males, and three females presented with primary amenorrhea. Hirsutism was noticeable in three females. All of the patients developed insulin resistance, and half of them were obese. Conclusions: The clinical presentations of different forms of CAH overlapped. Genotype–phenotype correlations were strong but not absolute. The management of CAH should be individualized and based on clinical and laboratory findings. Furthermore, the assessment of the cortisol response to adrenocorticotrophic hormone stimulation should be mandatory in all adults with CAH. Additionally, the regular long-term screening of cardiometabolic status is required in the CAH population.
A Novel Four Mitochondrial Respiration-Related Signature for Predicting Biochemical Recurrence of Prostate Cancer
Authors: Xia Zhongyou , Liu Haolin , Fan Shicheng , Tu Hongtao , Jiang Yongming , Wang Hai , Gu Peng , Liu Xiaodong
Published: January 2023

The biochemical recurrence (BCR) of patients with prostate cancer (PCa) after radical prostatectomy is high, and mitochondrial respiration is reported to be associated with the metabolism in PCa development. This study aimed to establish a mitochondrial respiratory gene-based risk model to predict the BCR of PCa. RNA sequencing data of PCa were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases, and mitochondrial respiratory-related genes (MRGs) were sourced via GeneCards. The differentially expressed mitochondrial respiratory and BCR-related genes (DE-MR-BCRGs) were acquired through overlapping BCR-related differentially expressed genes (BCR-DEGs) and differentially expressed MRGs (DE-MRGs) between PCa samples and controls. Further, univariate Cox, least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO), and multivariate Cox analyses were performed to construct a DE-MRGs-based risk model. Then, a nomogram was established by analyzing the independent prognostic factor of five clinical features and risk scores. Moreover, Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA), tumor microenvironment, and drug susceptibility analyses were employed between high- and low-risk groups of PCa patients with BCR. Finally, qRT-PCR was utilized to validate the expression of prognostic genes. We identified 11 DE-MR-BCRGs by overlapping 132 DE-MRGs and 13 BCR-DEGs and constructed a risk model consisting of 4 genes (APOE, DNAH8, EME2, and KIF5A). Furthermore, we established an accurate nomogram, including a risk score and a Gleason score, for the BCR prediction of PCa patients. The GSEA result suggested the risk model was related to the PPAR signaling pathway, the cholesterol catabolic process, the organic hydroxy compound biosynthetic process, the small molecule catabolic process, and the steroid catabolic process. Simultaneously, we found six immune cell types relevant to the risk model: resting memory CD4+ T cells, monocytes, resting mast cells, activated memory CD4+ T cells, regulatory T cells (Tregs), and macrophages M2. Moreover, the risk model could affect the IC50 of 12 cancer drugs, including Lapatinib, Bicalutamide, and Embelin. Finally, qRT-PCR showed that APOE, EME2, and DNAH8 were highly expressed in PCa, while KIF5A was downregulated in PCa. Collectively, a mitochondrial respiratory gene-based nomogram including four genes and one clinical feature was established for BCR prediction in patients with PCa, which could provide novel strategies for further studies.
Corneal Sub-Basal Nerve Plexus in Non-Diabetic Small Fiber Polyneuropathies and the Diagnostic Role of In Vivo Corneal Confocal Microscopy
Authors: Roszkowska Anna M. , Wylęgała Adam , Gargiulo Ludovica , Inferrera Leandro , Russo Massimo , Mencucci Rita , Orzechowska-Wylęgała Bogusława , Aragona Emanuela , Mancini Maura , Quartarone Angelo
Published: January 2023

In vivo corneal confocal microscopy (IVCM) allows the immediate analysis of the corneal nerve quantity and morphology. This method became, an indispensable tool for the tropism examination, as it evaluates the small fiber plexus in the cornea. The IVCM provides us with direct information on the health of the sub-basal nerve plexus and indirectly on the peripheral nerve status. It is an important tool used to investigate peripheral polyneuropathies. Small-fiber neuropathy (SFN) is a group of neurological disorders characterized by neuropathic pain symptoms and autonomic complaints due to the selective involvement of thinly myelinated Aδ-fibers and unmyelinated C-fibers. Accurate diagnosis of SFN is important as it provides a basis for etiological work-up and treatment decisions. The diagnosis of SFN is sometimes challenging as the clinical picture can be difficult to interpret and standard electromyography is normal. In cases of suspected SFN, measurement of intraepidermal nerve fiber density through a skin biopsy and/or analysis of quantitative sensory testing can enable diagnosis. The purpose of the present review is to summarize the current knowledge about corneal nerves in different SFN. Specifically, we explore the correlation between nerve density and morphology and type of SFN, disease duration, and follow-up. We will discuss the relationship between cataracts and refractive surgery and iatrogenic dry eye disease. Furthermore, these new paradigms in SFN present an opportunity for neurologists and clinical specialists in the diagnosis and monitoring the peripheral small fiber polyneuropathies.
Effect of Total Hip Arthroplasty with Ceramic Acetabular Component on Clinical, Radiographic and Functional Parameters in Older Patients with Hip Osteoarthritis: Two-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Torini Alexandre Penna , Barsotti Carlos Eduardo , Andrade Rodrigo Mantelatto , Nali Luiz Henrique da Silva , Ribeiro Ana Paula
Published: January 2023

Background: Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a widely used surgical procedure to reduce pain and improve function and quality of life in patients with hip disorders. The most common condition that leads to THA is osteoarthritis, with most surgeries being performed to treat severe osteoarthritis with pain and functional limitations. Despite the evident success of THA, the search for its improvement and better results, especially in the long term, continues, especially in older patients, for which there is still little scientific evidence. Objective: To evaluate the clinical, radiological, and functional aspects preoperatively and two years after THA with a ceramic acetabular component device in older patients with hip osteoarthritis. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted to evaluate 65 older individuals who underwent THA of the hip with an acetabular component (MD® ceramic head with a ceramic acetabular insert) associated with the MD6® Phenom® femoral rod type, in Hospital of the Luz, São Paulo/SP, between 2018 and 2019. Anthropometric and clinical information about the operative procedure and two years follow-up were collected from the patients’ medical records. For the clinical-functional evaluation, the Harris Hip Score (HHS) questionnaire and hip movement goniometry were applied. For the radiographic parameters, the following were evaluated: the positioning of the acetabular component, the Zone of DeLee and the offset of the femoroacetabular component. Results: There was a higher prevalence of performing THA in males (53.8%). Preoperative and two-year postoperative radiographic parameters of surgical treatment for THA showed maintenance of the acetabular (p = 0.083) and femoral (p = 0.102) positioning angles and increased functionality (p < 0.001) and joint mobility of the hip (p = 0.001) with reduced pain after two years of THA. Complications related to dislocation, loosening, infection, and inadequate positioning of the implant were low, ranging from 1.5 to 3%. Conclusion: Older people who underwent cementless THA with an ceramic acetabular component device, in a two-year follow-up, showed effectiveness in improved clinical, radiological, and functional aspects.