bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Motor Imagery and Paired Associative Stimulation in Poststroke Rehabilitation: Dissociating Motor and Electrophysiological Effects
Authors: Brihmat Nabila , Castel-Lacanal Evelyne , Tarri Mohamed , Lepage Benoit , Montane Emmeline , Cormier Camile , de Boissezon Xavier , Gasq David , Loubinoux Isabelle , Marque Philippe
Published: May 2023

Paired associative stimulation (PAS) is an intervention that modulates cortical plasticity. Motor imagery (MI) is used in the rehabilitation of stroke patients. We aimed to evaluate the possible synergistic effect of associating both interventions for potentiating motor recovery poststroke. MIPAS is a single-center, randomized controlled trial that enrolled 24 hemiparetic poststroke participants. Three single-session interventions were tested in a crossover design: PAS/MI, PAS, and ShamPAS/MI during which the affected Extensor Carpi Radialis (ECR) muscle was targeted. During MI, the participants were instructed to imagine extending their paretic wrist. We used Sham, subthreshold stimulation during ShamPAS. Changes in ECR Motor-Evoked Potential (MEP) areas and paretic wrist Range of Motion (aROM) during active extension were compared between the interventions. We observed no significant superior effect of any intervention, neither on MEP nor on wrist aROM. A time of assessment effect was highlighted for both outcome measures, with MEP- and aROM-measured post-interventions significantly higher than those measured pre-intervention. Despite the beneficial effect of each intervention on participant paretic wrist motor function, not always associated with MEP change, our results do not highlight a specific advantage in combining PAS and MI interventions in post-stroke motor rehabilitation.
Implementation of Technological Innovation in a Manufacturing Company
Authors: Plinta Dariusz , Radwan Katarzyna
Published: May 2023

The dynamics of change in the market force organizations to be ready to take up challenges. The innovation of enterprises is a determinant of their development. Implementation of technological innovation involves a large number of important strategic decisions. This publication discusses the issue of implementing technological innovation in a manufacturing enterprise. The subject of the manuscript includes the creation of a comprehensive methodology of proceedings. This, in turn, includes issues that determine the effectiveness of the management process of an innovative project in a small-batch production enterprise, whose specificity requires the proposal of a methodology for creating a concept of an innovative product under the conditions of limited project resources. The presented approach provides support for the creation of an innovation concept and its proper management. The proposed methodology allows for the evaluation and selection of optimal solution variants and the development of the technical preparation of new production in terms of construction, technology, and organization. The implementation of improvements presented in the article results in an increase in the company’s ability to successfully implement technological innovations, whose implementation is an essential step to increase the value and growth of the company.
Applications of Computer Science in Agricultural Engineering
Authors: Górnicki Krzysztof
Published: May 2023

Agricultural engineering is the branch of engineering that deals with the design and exploitation of farm machinery and devices; the location and planning of farm structures; farm drainage, soil management, and erosion control; water supply and irrigation; rural electrification; farm product processing; and deriving renewable energy from agricultural products [...]
Magneto-Optical Traps for Cold Atomic Gravimetry: Research Status and Development Trends
Authors: Xu Rui , Li An , Li Dongyi , Yan Jiujiang
Published: May 2023

The cold atomic gravimeter (CAG) has the advantage of high measurement accuracy and does not need to be calibrated on a regular basis. To achieve cold atom interference, it is first necessary to cool and trap the atoms by magneto-optical trap (MOT). However, there are many types of MOTs, and their trapping and cooling results directly affect the atomic interference, and thus, the measurement accuracy of a CAG. MOTs should be designed or selected correctly for different application needs. This paper reviews the research history of MOTs and analyzes their structure and principles. The current status of applications of different types of MOTs is highlighted. Their advantages and disadvantages are summarized, and perspectives for the development of MOTs for cold atomic gravimetry are presented.
Volatile Organic Compounds Determination from Intestinal Polyps and in Exhaled Breath by Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Aresta Antonella Maria , De Vietro Nicoletta , Picciariello Arcangelo , Rotelli Maria Teresa , Altomare Donato Francesco , Dezi Agnese , Martines Gennaro , Di Gilio Alessia , Palmisani Jolanda , De Gennaro Gianluigi , Zambonin Carlo
Published: May 2023

In this paper, a new protocol is described, based on solid phase microextraction (SPME) coupled with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS), to monitor ex vivo changes in endogenous volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released by surgically resected colonic tissues (normal colonic mucosa and adenomatous polyps) from seven patients undergoing operative colonoscopy to identify their molecular pattern. The exhalated volatile organic molecules from these patients were sampled by the ReCIVA® breath sampler, shortly before surgery, and analyzed by GC-MS. Comparing VOC patterns identified in the tissues and in the breath of the same patients, a possible correlation can be found between the levels of methylbenzene and benzaldehyde exhaled and the presence of colonic adenomatous polypoid lesions.
Free Vibration Characteristics Analysis of Metal-Rubber Cylindrical Shells Based on Viscoelastic Theory
Authors: Bai Yan , Deng Pengfei , Fu Ke , Li He
Published: May 2023

The cylindrical shell made of metal rubber has a strong ability to reduce and absorb vibration, which widens its application in the industrial field. Therefore, it is of great significance to study the vibration characteristics of metal-rubber cylindrical shells (MRCSs). However, there is relatively little research on this aspect. Based on this, the dynamic properties of MRCS are investigated in this paper based on viscoelastic theory, the Rayleigh–Ritz method, and the Gram–Schmidt orthogonal polynomials. The correctness of the proposed model was verified by comparison with the literature and experimental verification. The results show that the preloading state and boundary conditions have significant effects on the natural frequency and modal loss factor of MRCS. The effect of the Pasternak elastic foundation on the natural frequency and modal loss factor of MRCS varies with the change of the axial half wave number m. The effect of the Pasternak elastic foundation on higher-order vibrations is similar to that of the artificial spring technique.
An Investigation of Quasi-Static Compression and Shock Responses under a Pneumatic Exciter on Brittle Truss Lattice Structures Fabricated with a Vat Photopolymer Resin
Authors: Doungkom Patchayaporn , Jearsiripongkul Thira , Jiamjiroch Krit
Published: May 2023

Shock attenuation is a significant aspect of shockproof design. The aim of this study is to explore the use of lattice structures for shock isolation applications. Five lattice structures were fabricated using photopolymer resin and subjected to quasi-static compression tests under a universal testing machine and shock response tests under a pneumatic exciter. The quasi-static compression tests provided preliminary data on the lattice structure’s collapse modes, stress, strain, and energy absorption. The shock test results revealed that the responses from the lattice structures were complex convolutions of the frequency. Moreover, the collapsed mode under the compression experiment did not guarantee the same outcome as in the shock impulse experiment. Amongst the lattice structures, the face-centred cubic with cubic perimeter (FCC + CP) structure exhibited the poorest shock isolation properties, with an ability to absorb only approximately one-third of the shock compared to solid structures. On the other hand, the body-centred cubic with cubic perimeter (BCC + CP) structure showed the highest impulse response with average shock transmissibility, making it a viable option for applications requiring shock insulation. However, it should be noted that this data may only be applicable for high acceleration with low degrees of force, less than 300 N.
Analysis of the Solution of a Model of SARS-CoV-2 Variants and Its Approximation Using Two-Step Lagrange Polynomial and Euler Techniques
Authors: Usman Muhammad , Abbas Mujahid , Omame Andrew
Published: May 2023

In this paper, a vaccination model for SARS-CoV-2 variants is proposed and is studied using fractional differential operators involving a non-singular kernel. It is worth mentioning that variability in transmission rates occurs because of the particular population that is vaccinated, and hence, the asymptomatic infected classes are classified on the basis of their vaccination history. Using the Banach contraction principle and the Arzela–Ascoli theorem, existence and uniqueness results for the proposed model are presented. Two different numerical approaches, the fractional Euler and Lagrange polynomial methods, are employed to approximate the model’s solution. The model is then fitted to data associated with COVID-19 deaths in Pakistan between 1 January 2022 and 10 April 2022. It is concluded that our model is much aligned with the data when the order of the fractional derivative ζ=0.96. The two different approaches are then compared with different step sizes. It is observed that they behave alike for small step sizes and exhibit different behaviour for larger step sizes. Based on the numerical assessment of the model presented herein, the impact of vaccination and the fractional order are highlighted. It is also noted that vaccination could remarkably decrease the spikes of different emerging variants of SARS-CoV-2 within the population.
Single-Step Genomic Prediction of Superovulatory Response Traits in Japanese Black Donor Cows
Authors: Zoda Atsushi , Ogawa Shinichiro , Kagawa Rino , Tsukahara Hayato , Obinata Rui , Urakawa Manami , Oono Yoshio
Published: May 2023

We assessed the performance of single-step genomic prediction of breeding values for superovulatory response traits in Japanese Black donor cows. A total of 25,332 records of the total number of embryos and oocytes (TNE) and the number of good embryos (NGE) per flush for 1874 Japanese Black donor cows were collected during 2008 and 2022. Genotype information on 36,426 autosomal single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for 575 out of the 1,874 cows was used. Breeding values were predicted exploiting a two-trait repeatability animal model. Two genetic relationship matrices were used, one based on pedigree information (A matrix) and the other considering both pedigree and SNP marker genotype information (H matrix). Estimated heritabilities of TNE and NGE were 0.18 and 0.11, respectively, when using the H matrix, which were both slightly lower than when using the A matrix (0.26 for TNE and 0.16 for NGE). Estimated genetic correlations between the traits were 0.61 and 0.66 when using H and A matrices, respectively. When the variance components were the same in breeding value prediction, the mean reliability was greater when using the H matrix than when using the A matrix. This advantage seems more prominent for cows with low reliability when using the A matrix. The results imply that introducing single-step genomic prediction could boost the rate of genetic improvement of superovulatory response traits, but efforts should be made to maintain genetic diversity when performing selection.
The Diagnostic Potential of RNA Aptamers against the NS1 Protein of Dengue Virus Serotype 2
Authors: Thevendran Ramesh , Rogini Sivalingam , Leighton Glenn , Mutombwera Atherton , Shigdar Sarah , Tang Thean-Hock , Citartan Marimuthu
Published: May 2023

Dengue infection, caused by the dengue virus, is a global threat which requires immediate attention and appropriate disease management. The current diagnosis of dengue infection is largely based on viral isolation, RT-PCR and serology-based detection, which are time-consuming and expensive, and require trained personnel. For early diagnosis of dengue, the direct detection of a dengue antigenic target is efficacious, and one such target is NS1. NS1-based detection is primarily antibody-centric and is beset by drawbacks pertaining to antibodies such as the high cost of synthesis and large batch-to-batch variation. Aptamers are potential surrogates of antibodies and are much cheaper, without exhibiting batch-to-batch variation. Given these advantages, we sought to isolate RNA aptamers against the NS1 protein of dengue virus serotype 2. A total of 11 cycles of SELEX were carried out, resulting in two potent aptamers, DENV-3 and DENV-6, with dissociation constant values estimated at 37.57 ± 10.34 nM and 41.40 ± 9.29 nM, respectively. These aptamers can be further miniaturized to TDENV-3 and TDENV-6a with an increased LOD upon their usage in direct ELASA. Moreover, these truncated aptamers are highly specific against the dengue NS1 while showing no cross-reactivity against the NS1 of the Zika virus, the E2 protein of the Chikungunya virus or the LipL32 protein of Leptospira, with target selectivity retained even in human serum. The usage of TDENV-3 as the capturing probe and TDENV-6a as the detection probe underpinned the development of an aptamer-based sandwich ELASA for the detection of dengue NS1. The sensitivity of the sandwich ELASA was further improved with the stabilization of the truncated aptamers and the repeated incubation strategy, which enabled a LOD of 2 nM when used with the target NS1 spiked in human serum diluted at 1:2000.
A Novel SPR Immunosensor Based on Dual Signal Amplification Strategy for Detection of SARS-CoV-2 Nucleocapsid Protein
Authors: Fan Lirui , Du Bin , Pei Fubin , Hu Wei , Feng Shasha , Liu Bing , Tong Zhaoyang , Tan Wenyuan , Mu Xihui
Published: May 2023

Since the global outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), it has spread rapidly around the world. The nucleocapsid (N) protein is one of the most abundant SARS-CoV-2 proteins. Therefore, a sensitive and effective detection method for SARS-CoV-2 N protein is the focus of research. Here, we developed a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) biosensor based on the dual signal-amplification strategy of Au@Ag@Au nanoparticles (NPs) and graphene oxide (GO). Additionally, a sandwich immunoassay was utilized to sensitively and efficiently detect SARS-CoV-2 N protein. On the one hand, Au@Ag@Au NPs have a high refractive index and the capability to electromagnetically couple with the plasma waves propagating on the surface of gold film, which are harnessed for amplifying the SPR response signal. On the other hand, GO, which has the large specific surface area and the abundant oxygen-containing functional groups, could provide unique light absorption bands that can enhance plasmonic coupling to further amplify the SPR response signal. The proposed biosensor could efficiently detect SARS-CoV-2 N protein for 15 min and the detection limit for SARS-CoV-2 N protein was 0.083 ng/mL, with a linear range of 0.1 ng/mL~1000 ng/mL. This novel method can meet the analytical requirements of artificial saliva simulated samples, and the developed biosensor had a good anti-interference capability.
Approaches to Learning of Preschool Children in China: A Comparison between Only Children and Non-Only Children
Authors: Hong Xiumin , Liu Qianqian , Zhao Sijie
Published: May 2023

Preschool children are at the initial stage of individual development and at a critical period in cultivating their approaches to learning. In the context of China’s frequently adjusted birth policies, further research is necessary on children’s approaches to learning in families of different sizes. A questionnaire survey was administered to 5454 only child and 4632 non-only child parents from the east, middle, and west of China. The study found that children’s approaches to learning generally developed well, but non-only children’s approaches to learning was significantly lower than those of only children. There are four profiles of approaches to learning for both the only children and the non-only children. This study also found that gender, social skills, family income, and type of preschool exert significant influences on children’s approaches to learning. Parents’ educational background had a significant influence on only children’s approaches to learning but had no significant influence on non-only children’s approaches to learning. We provide practical implications for promoting children’s approaches to learning in families of different sizes.
Seismic Response Analysis of a Large-Span Isolated Structure Equipped with TNRB-DSBs and LRBs
Authors: Gu Zhenyuan , Feng Lu , Sun Ying , Gong Hai , Zhu Chenhui , Chen Zhijun , Dai Jiaqi , Hao Fangzheng , Zhong Xinting , Qian Wangping
Published: May 2023

This study focused on comprehensively analyzing the construction, mechanism, and design theory of the Thick Rubber Bearing–Disk Spring Bearing (TNRB-DSB) system, with the aim of evaluating its isolation effect. Mechanical tests were conducted to examine the dynamic characteristics of large-span isolated structures equipped with TNRB-DSBs, and laminated rubber bearings (LRBs), as well as the dynamic responses of non-isolated structures and large-span horizontal isolated structures equipped with natural rubber bearings (NRBs) and LRBs, under various seismic excitations. Finite element software was utilized to compare the behaviors of these structures. The study revealed that the large-span isolated structure equipped with TNRB-DSBs and LRBs had a vertical natural vibration period 1.23 times as long as that of the isolated structure with NRBs and LRBs, and 4.27 times as long as that of the non-isolated structure. The TNRB-DSB system demonstrated good vertical and horizontal isolation capabilities, which compensated for the isolation limitations of other rubber bearings to some extent.
Advances in Green Synthesis of Metal Oxide Nanoparticles by Marine Algae for Wastewater Treatment by Adsorption and Photocatalysis Techniques
Authors: Alprol Ahmed E. , Mansour Abdallah Tageldein , Abdelwahab Abdelwahab M. , Ashour Mohamed
Published: May 2023

The use of algae-based green synthesis of metal oxide nanoparticles (MONPs) for bioremediation is an environmentally friendly and cost-effective alternative to conventional approaches. Algal-mediated synthesis offers several benefits over other biogenic processes, such as plants, bacteria, and fungi, including ease of synthesis, scalability, and rapid synthesis. Algae are readily available in nature, nontoxic, and can produce various types of metal oxide nanoparticles. This approach could significantly accelerate the development of novel algae-nanomaterials with improved properties and performance, leading to more efficient and cost-effective bioremediation of pollutants from water solutions, seawater, and industrial effluent. This review focuses on the biogenic fabrication of metal oxide nanoparticles based on aquatic plants (microalgae and seaweeds) due to their many advantages and attractive applications in pollutant remediation from aqueous solutions. Additionally, photocatalysis is highlighted as a promising tool for the remediation of industrial effluents due to its efficacy, ease of use, quick oxidation, cost-effectiveness, and reduced synthesis of harmful byproducts.
PtCu Nanoparticle Catalyst for Electrocatalytic Glycerol Oxidation: How Does the PtCu Affect to Glycerol Oxidation Reaction Performance by Changing pH Conditions?
Authors: Oh Lee Seul , Han Jeonghyun , Lim Eunho , Kim Won Bae , Kim Hyung Ju
Published: May 2023

In this work, we show that finding and controlling optimum pH environments with Pt-based alloy catalysts can create high catalytic performances for electrocatalytic glycerol oxidation reaction (EGOR). Compared to a Pt/C catalyst, the PtCu/C alloy catalyst has higher reaction rate and turnover frequency (TOF) values by increasing the pH. Specifically, the reaction rate and TOF of the PtCu/C catalyst at pH 13 were 2.93 and 6.65 times higher than those of Pt/C, respectively. The PtCu/C catalyst also showed lower onset potential value and higher mass and specific activities than the Pt/C by increasing the pH. This indicates that the Cu in the PtCu alloy improves the catalytic activity for the EGOR in an OH− group-rich environment. In the case of the PtCu/C catalyst at a high pH condition, the selectivities of tartronic acid and oxalic acid tended to increase as the selectivity of lactic acid decreased. This result means that the PtCu alloy follows primary alcohol oxidation pathways, which are more favorable in an OH− group-rich environment than with only Pt. This study proposes that it is critical to optimize and control the reaction conditions for developing efficient EGOR catalysts.
APN Expression in Serum and Corpus Luteum: Regulation of Luteal Steroidogenesis Is Possibly Dependent on the AdipoR2/AMPK Pathway in Goats
Authors: Pei Xiaomeng , Li Haolin , Yu Hao , Wang Wei , Mao Dagan
Published: May 2023

Adiponectin (APN) is an essential adipokine for a variety of reproductive processes. To investigate the role of APN in goat corpora lutea (CLs), CLs and sera from different luteal phases were collected for analysis. The results showed that the APN structure and content had no significant divergence in different luteal phases both in CLs and sera; however, high molecular weight APN was dominant in serum, while low molecular weight APN was more present in CLs. The luteal expression of both AdipoR1/2 and T-cadherin (T-Ca) increased on D11 and 17. APN and its receptors (AdipoR1/2 and T-Ca) were mainly expressed in goat luteal steroidogenic cells. The steroidogenesis and APN structure in pregnant CLs had a similar model as in the mid-cycle CLs. To further explore the effects and mechanisms of APN in CLs, steroidogenic cells from pregnant CLs were isolated to detect the AMPK-mediated pathway by the activation of APN (AdipoRon) and knockdown of APN receptors. The results revealed that P-AMPK in goat luteal cells increased after incubation with APN (1 μg/mL) or AdipoRon (25 μM) for 1 h, and progesterone (P4) and steroidogenic proteins levels (STAR/CYP11A1/HSD3B) decreased after 24 h. APN did not affect the steroidogenic protein expression when cells were pretreated with Compound C or SiAMPK. APN increased P-AMPK and reduced the CYP11A1 expression and P4 levels when cells were pretreated with SiAdipoR1 or SiT-Ca, while APN failed to affect P-AMPK, the CYP11A1 expression or the P4 levels when pretreated with SiAdipoR2. Therefore, the different structural forms of APN in CLs and sera may possess distinct functions; APN might regulate luteal steroidogenesis through AdipoR2 which is most likely dependent on AMPK.
Newly Developed Di-Block Copolymer-Based Cell Membrane Stabilizers Protect Mouse Coronary Artery Endothelial Cells against Hypoxia/Reoxygenation Injury
Authors: Li Zhu , Gupta Mukesh K. , Barajas Matthew B. , Oyama Takuro , Duvall Craig L. , Riess Matthias L.
Published: May 2023

Reperfusion after ischemia causes additional cellular damage, known as reperfusion injury, for which there is still no effective remedy. Poloxamer (P)188, a tri-block copolymer-based cell membrane stabilizer (CCMS), has been shown to provide protection against hypoxia/reoxygenation (HR) injury in various models by reducing membrane leakage and apoptosis and improving mitochondrial function. Interestingly, substituting one of its hydrophilic poly-ethylene oxide (PEO) blocks with a (t)ert-butyl terminus added to the hydrophobic poly-propylene oxide (PPO) block yields a di-block compound (PEO-PPOt) that interacts better with the cell membrane lipid bi-layer and exhibits greater cellular protection than the gold standard tri-block P188 (PEO75-PPO30-PEO75). For this study, we custom-made three different new di-blocks (PEO113-PPO10t, PEO226-PPO18t and PEO113-PPO20t) to systemically examine the effects of the length of each polymer block on cellular protection in comparison to P188. Cellular protection was assessed by cell viability, lactate dehydrogenase release, and uptake of FM1-43 in mouse artery endothelial cells (ECs) following HR injury. We found that di-block CCMS were able to provide the same or better EC protection than P188. Our study provides the first direct evidence that custom-made di-block CCMS can be superior to P188 in improving EC membrane protection, raising their potential in treating cardiac reperfusion injury.
O-GlcNAc Dynamics: The Sweet Side of Protein Trafficking Regulation in Mammalian Cells
Authors: Ben Ahmed Awatef , Lemaire Quentin , Scache Jodie , Mariller Christophe , Lefebvre Tony , Vercoutter-Edouart Anne-Sophie
Published: May 2023

The transport of proteins between the different cellular compartments and the cell surface is governed by the secretory pathway. Alternatively, unconventional secretion pathways have been described in mammalian cells, especially through multivesicular bodies and exosomes. These highly sophisticated biological processes rely on a wide variety of signaling and regulatory proteins that act sequentially and in a well-orchestrated manner to ensure the proper delivery of cargoes to their final destination. By modifying numerous proteins involved in the regulation of vesicular trafficking, post-translational modifications (PTMs) participate in the tight regulation of cargo transport in response to extracellular stimuli such as nutrient availability and stress. Among the PTMs, O-GlcNAcylation is the reversible addition of a single N-acetylglucosamine monosaccharide (GlcNAc) on serine or threonine residues of cytosolic, nuclear, and mitochondrial proteins. O-GlcNAc cycling is mediated by a single couple of enzymes: the O-GlcNAc transferase (OGT) which catalyzes the addition of O-GlcNAc onto proteins, and the O-GlcNAcase (OGA) which hydrolyses it. Here, we review the current knowledge on the emerging role of O-GlcNAc modification in the regulation of protein trafficking in mammalian cells, in classical and unconventional secretory pathways.
Next-Generation Boron Drugs and Rational Translational Studies Driving the Revival of BNCT
Authors: Seneviratne Danushka S. , Saifi Omran , Mackeyev Yuri , Malouff Timothy , Krishnan Sunil
Published: May 2023

BNCT is a high-linear-energy transfer therapy that facilitates tumor-directed radiation delivery while largely sparing adjacent normal tissues through the biological targeting of boron compounds to tumor cells. Tumor-specific accumulation of boron with limited accretion in normal cells is the crux of successful BNCT delivery. Given this, developing novel boronated compounds with high selectivity, ease of delivery, and large boron payloads remains an area of active investigation. Furthermore, there is growing interest in exploring the immunogenic potential of BNCT. In this review, we discuss the basic radiobiological and physical aspects of BNCT, traditional and next-generation boron compounds, as well as translational studies exploring the clinical applicability of BNCT. Additionally, we delve into the immunomodulatory potential of BNCT in the era of novel boron agents and examine innovative avenues for exploiting the immunogenicity of BNCT to improve outcomes in difficult-to-treat malignancies.
Protection of Cu from Oxidation by Ta Capping Layer
Authors: Zhidkov Ivan S. , Kukharenko Andrey I. , Milyaev Mikhail A. , Kravtsov Evgeniy A. , Makarova Marina V. , Gapontsev Vladimir V. , Streltsov Sergey V. , Cholakh Seif O. , Kurmaev Ernst Z.
Published: May 2023

X-ray reflectometry (XRR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) measurements (core levels and valence bands) were made of Cu thin films that were prepared and coated by capping Ta layers with different thicknesses (5, 10, 15, 20, and 30 Å), and are presented. The XRR and XPS Ta 4f-spectra revealed a complete oxidation of the protective layer up to a thickness of 10 Å. From the thickness of the capping layer of 15 Å, a pure Ta-metal line appeared in the XPS Ta 4f-spectrum, the contribution of which increased up to 30 Å. The XPS Cu 2p-spectra of the underlying copper layer revealed the oxidation with the formation of CuO up to a thickness of the Ta-layer of 10 Å. Starting from a thickness of 15 Å, the complete protection of the Cu layer against oxidation was ensured during exposure to the ambient atmosphere.
Management and Prevention of Cellular-Therapy-Related Toxicity: Early and Late Complications
Authors: Mucha Simon R. , Rajendram Prabalini
Published: May 2023

Chimeric Antigen Receptor T (CAR-T) cell therapy has dramatically changed prognosis and treatment of relapsed and refractory hematologic malignancies. Currently the 6 FDA approved products target various surface antigens. While CAR-T therapy achieves good response, life-threatening toxicities have been reported. Mechanistically, can be divided into two categories: (1) toxicities related to T-cell activation and release of high levels of cytokines: or (2) toxicities resulting from interaction between CAR and CAR targeted antigen expressed on non-malignant cells (i.e., on-target, off-tumor effects). Variations in conditioning therapies, co-stimulatory domains, CAR T-cell dose and anti-cytokine administration, pose a challenge in distinguishing cytokine mediated related toxicities from on-target, off-tumor toxicities. Timing, frequency, severity, as well as optimal management of CAR T-cell-related toxicities vary significantly between products and are likely to change as newer therapies become available. Currently the FDA approved CARs are targeted towards the B-cell malignancies however the future holds promise of expanding the target to solid tumor malignancies. Further highlighting the importance of early recognition and intervention for early and late onset CAR-T related toxicity. This contemporary review aims to describe presentation, grading and management of commonly encountered toxicities, short- and long-term complications, discuss preventive strategies and resource utilization.
Correlation between a New Point-Shear Wave Elastography Device (X+pSWE) with Liver Histology and 2D-SWE (SSI) for Liver Stiffness Quantification in Chronic Liver Disease
Authors: Garcovich Matteo , Paratore Mattia , Riccardi Laura , Zocco Maria Assunta , Ainora Maria Elena , Mingrone Geltrude , Gasbarrini Antonio , Pompili Maurizio
Published: May 2023

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility, the correlation with previously validated 2D-SWE by supersonic imagine (SSI), and the accuracy in fibrosis-staging of a novel point shear-wave elastography device (X+pSWE) in patients with chronic liver disease. Methods: This prospective study included 253 patients with chronic liver diseases, without comorbidities potentially affecting liver stiffness. All patients underwent X+pSWE and 2D-SWE with SSI. Among them 122 patients also underwent liver biopsy and were classified according to histologic fibrosis. Agreement between the equipment was assessed with Pearson coefficient and Bland–Altman analysis, while receiver operator characteristic curve (ROC) analysis with Youden index was used to establish thresholds for fibrosis staging. Results: A very good correlation was found between X+pSWE and 2D-SWE with SSI (r2 = 0.94; p < 0.001), with X+pSWE average liver stiffness values 0.24 kPa lower than those obtained with SSI. AUROC of X+pSWE for the staging of significant fibrosis (F2), severe fibrosis (F3) and cirrhosis (F4) using SSI as a reference standard was 0.96 (95% CI, 0.93–0.99), 0.98 (95% CI, 0.97–1) and 0.99 (95% CI, 0.98–1), respectively. The best cut-off values for diagnosing fibrosis ≥F2, ≥F3 and F4 were, respectively, 6.9, 8.5 and 12 for X+pSWE. According to histologic classification, X+pSWE correctly identified 93 out of 113 patients (82%) for F ≥ 2 and 101 out of 113 patients (89%) for F ≥ 3 using the aforementioned cut-off values. Conclusion: X+pSWE is a useful novel non-invasive technique for staging liver fibrosis in patients with chronic liver disease.
Detection of Gallbladder Disease Types Using Deep Learning: An Informative Medical Method
Authors: Obaid Ahmed Mahdi , Turki Amina , Bellaaj Hatem , Ksantini Mohamed , AlTaee Abdulla , Alaerjan Alaa
Published: May 2023

Nowadays, despite all the conducted research and the provided efforts in advancing the healthcare sector, there is a strong need to rapidly and efficiently diagnose various diseases. The complexity of some disease mechanisms on one side and the dramatic life-saving potential on the other side raise big challenges for the development of tools for the early detection and diagnosis of diseases. Deep learning (DL), an area of artificial intelligence (AI), can be an informative medical tomography method that can aid in the early diagnosis of gallbladder (GB) disease based on ultrasound images (UI). Many researchers considered the classification of only one disease of the GB. In this work, we successfully managed to apply a deep neural network (DNN)-based classification model to a rich built database in order to detect nine diseases at once and to determine the type of disease using UI. In the first step, we built a balanced database composed of 10,692 UI of the GB organ from 1782 patients. These images were carefully collected from three hospitals over roughly three years and then classified by professionals. In the second step, we preprocessed and enhanced the dataset images in order to achieve the segmentation step. Finally, we applied and then compared four DNN models to analyze and classify these images in order to detect nine GB disease types. All the models produced good results in detecting GB diseases; the best was the MobileNet model, with an accuracy of 98.35%.
Differential Expression of LncRNA in Bladder Cancer Development
Authors: Spirito Lorenzo , Maturi Rufina , Credendino Sara Carmela , Manfredi Celeste , Arcaniolo Davide , De Martino Marco , Esposito Francesco , Napolitano Luigi , Di Bello Francesco , Fusco Alfredo , Pallante Pierlorenzo , De Sio Marco , De Vita Gabriella
Published: May 2023

Bladder cancer (BC) is the tenth most common cancer, with urothelial carcinoma representing about 90% of all BC, including neoplasms and carcinomas of different grades of malignancy. Urinary cytology has a significant role in BC screening and surveillance, although it has a low detection rate and high dependence on the pathologist’s experience. The currently available biomarkers are not implemented into routine clinical practice due to high costs or low sensitivity. In recent years, the role of lncRNAs in BC has emerged, even though it is still poorly explored. We have previously shown that the lncRNAs Metallophosphoesterase Domain-Containing 2 Antisense RNA 1 (MPPED2-AS1), Rhabdomyosarcoma-2 Associated Transcript (RMST), Kelch-like protein 14 antisense (Klhl14AS) and Prader Willi/Angelman region RNA 5 (PAR5) are involved in the progression of different types of cancers. Here, we investigated the expression of these molecules in BC, first by interrogating the GEPIA database and observing a different distribution of expression levels between normal and cancer specimens. We then measured them in a cohort of neoplastic bladder lesions, either benign or malignant, from patients with suspicion of BC undergoing transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT). The total RNA from biopsies was analyzed using qRT-PCR for the expression of the four lncRNA genes, showing differential expression of the investigated lncRNAs between normal tissue, benign lesions and cancers. In conclusion, the data reported here highlight the involvement of novel lncRNAs in BC development, whose altered expression could potentially affect the regulatory circuits in which these molecules are involved. Our study paves the way for testing lncRNA genes as markers for BC diagnosis and/or follow-up.
Editorial for the Special Edition on Social and Emotional Education
Authors: McLaughlin Colleen
Published: May 2023

This collection of eight articles in this special edition clearly exemplifies the variety of thoughts and definitions relating to the territory of social and emotional education [...]
Long Short-Term Memory Network-Based HVDC Systems Fault Diagnosis under Knowledge Graph
Authors: Chen Qian , Wu Jiyang , Li Qiang , Gao Ximing , Yu Rongxing , Guo Jianbao , Peng Guangqiang , Yang Bo
Published: May 2023

To enhance the precision of fault diagnosis for high-voltage direct-current (HVDC) systems by effectively extracting various types of fault characteristics, a fault diagnosis method based on the long short-term memory network (LSTM) is proposed in this paper. The method relies on a knowledge graph platform and is developed using measured data from four fault types in an HVDC substation located in southwest China. Firstly, a knowledge graph for the HVDC systems is constructed, then the fault waveform data is preprocessed and divided into a training set and a test set. Various optimizers are employed to train and test the LSTM. The proposed strategy’s accuracy is calculated and compared with recurrent neural network (RNN), eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost), support vector machine (SVM), Naive Bayes classifier, probabilistic neural networks (PNN), and classification learner (CL), which are commonly used in fault diagnosis. Results indicate that the proposed method achieves an accuracy of over 95%, which is 30% higher than RNN, 8% higher than XGBoost, 4% higher than SVM, 7% higher than Naive Bayes, 40% higher than PNN, and 42% higher than classification learner (CL), respectively; the method also has the minimum time cost, fully demonstrating its superiority and effectiveness compared to other methods.
Oracles Integration in Blockchain-Based Platform for Smart Crop Production Data Exchange
Authors: Popchev Ivan , Radeva Irina , Doukovska Lyubka
Published: May 2023

Blockchain oracles are an intermediary designed to connect external non-deterministic information and real-world data to the blockchain digital infrastructure. The variety of proposed solutions and purposes are of great variety and suggest that it is necessary to take into account different features of the process and specifically define the required functionalities. The purpose of this paper is to present the integration of oracles into an EOSIO blockchain-based platform for smart crop production data exchange by smart contracts. The functions of two oracles are presented. Their integration is described at the design level and at the implementation of the smart contracts. The design level is illustrated by workflow diagrams of internal processes between oracle applications and the blockchain smart contract and by external processes in the oracles’ smart contracts. The implementation level is illustrated by oracle application configuration files and elements of C++ smart contracts, such as constant and variable declarations, multi-index tables, internal contract functions, and actions called by other contracts and external programs. As results of the oracles’ operation, a report on the detected emergency failures and an estimate of the cost of ram resource are presented.
Cuk PFC Converter Based on Variable Inductor
Authors: Yan Tiesheng , Chen Tong , Huang Ao , Chen Wenyuan , Cao Taiqiang
Published: May 2023

When the input inductor operates in discontinuous current mode (DCM), the Cuk converter can automatically achieve power factor correction (PFC) function with only a simple voltage mode control loop. However, the conventional Cuk PFC converter suffers from high intermediate capacitor voltage because of the lack of feedback of the intermediate capacitor voltage and relatively low power factor (PF). In this paper, a Cuk PFC converter using variable inductor which varies with the transient rectified input voltage is proposed to enhance the PF and reduce the intermediate capacitor voltage by injecting a controlled DC bias current into the auxiliary winding of the variable input inductor. The operating principles of the proposed Cuk PFC converter based on variable inductor are analyzed in detail, and the analysis of PF, the voltage of intermediate capacitor, and design considerations are provided. To verify the feasibility of the proposed scheme and compare the characteristics of both the traditional and proposed Cuk PFC converter, a 108W experimental prototype of the proposed converter is built and tested. The experimental results show that the proposed Cuk PFC converter can significantly enhance the PF, decrease the intermediate capacitor voltage, and increase efficiency compared with the traditional Cuk PFC converter.
RLFAT: A Transformer-Based Relay Link Forged Attack Detection Mechanism in SDN
Authors: Zhang Tianyi , Wang Yong
Published: May 2023

SDN is a modern internet architecture that has transformed the traditional internet structure in recent years. By segregating the control and data planes of the network, SDN facilitates centralized management, scalability, dynamism, and programmability. However, this very feature makes SDN controllers vulnerable to cyber attacks, which can cause network-wide crashes, unlike conventional networks. One of the most stealthy attacks that SDN controllers face is the relay link forgery attack in topology deception attacks. Such an attack can result in erroneous overall views for SDN controllers, leading to network functionality breakdowns and even crashes. In this article, we introduce the Relay Link Forgery Attack detection model based on the Transformer deep learning model for the first time. The model (RLFAT) detects relay link forgery attacks by extracting features from network flows received by SDN controllers. A dataset of network flows received by SDN controllers from a large number of SDN networks with different topologies was collected. Finally, the Relay-based Link Forgery Attack detection model was trained on this dataset, and its performance was evaluated using accuracy, recall, F1 score, and AUC metrics. For better validation, comparative experiments were conducted with some common deep learning models. The experimental results show that our proposed model (RLFAT) has good performance in detecting RLFA and outperforms other models.
Research on Temperature Distribution of Large Permanent Magnet Synchronous Direct Drive Wind Turbine
Authors: Huang Zhengjun , Liu Quan , Hao Yuxin
Published: May 2023

A wind turbine is a conversion mechanism that converts wind energy into electrical energy, but the conversion efficiency cannot reach 100%, so there is partial loss. These losses are converted into thermal energy, which in turn causes the wind turbine to heat up and affect generator performance. Therefore, the cooling and temperature field analysis of wind turbines is very important. In this paper, an electromagnetic analysis model is established by using the parameters of a 4 MW wind turbine; the losses of each part of the generator under rated load and three-phase short-circuit conditions are calculated, respectively; and the heat source is imported into the workbench fluent software to determine the cooling mode, so as to obtain the magnetic-thermal-flow field coupling model of permanent magnet synchronous direct drive wind turbine. The temperature distribution and temperature rise of the generator are obtained. Under the rated load condition, the overall maximum temperature rise of the wind turbine is 41.4 °C, about 180 mm near the fluid outlet side, which is as high as the winding temperature rises, because the winding is the main heating body. The maximum temperature rise of the rotor model and the permanent magnet model is about 36 °C. Under the three-phase short circuit condition, the temperature distribution of each component is similar to that under the rated load condition, and the temperature near the fluid inlet is low; the lowest is only 29.8 °C. The higher the temperature at the fluid’s outlet, but not close to it, the higher the temperature is when it is about 180 mm away from the fluid’s outlet side. The temperature difference in the same axial length is relatively large, with a maximum temperature difference of about 120 °C. The temperature distribution and temperature rise of the generator are independent of the operating conditions, which mainly affect the value. Additionally, through experimental verification, the minimum error under the rated load condition is 1.05%, the maximum error is 3.3%, and the average error is 2.30%. The minimum error under the three-phase short-circuit condition is 1.5%, the maximum error is 3.62%, and the average error is 2.26%. The difference with the engineering error range requirements is small, indicating the reasonable and effective effectiveness of this method. This study aims to provide a strong reference for analyzing the cooling and magnetic thermal flow field and a coupling analysis of direct drive wind turbines.
Analyzing Accurate Egocentric Distance Estimates of University Students in Virtual Environments with a Desktop Display and Gear VR Display
Authors: Guzsvinecz Tibor , Perge Erika , Szűcs Judit
Published: May 2023

The perception of distances is crucial in both the real world and virtual environments. However, distances can be incorrectly estimated in the latter one, and they can be affected by technological and human factors. We created a virtual environment to take a step toward understanding this phenomenon. We assessed the egocentric distance estimation skills of 239 university students at 10 various distances between 25 cm and 160 cm at 15 cm intervals. A desktop display was used by 157 students, while the Gear VR display was used by 72 students. The effects of the following factors were analyzed: gender, height, dominant arm, previous VR experience, gaming hours per week, whether the participants wore glasses, their field of study, and display device. Logistic regression analysis was performed to assess their influences on the probabilities of accurate distance estimates, while linear regression analysis was conducted to examine their effects on estimation times. The results show that except for the factors of whether the participants wore glasses and their field of study, the probabilities of accurate distance estimates can be affected along with estimation times themselves.
VR-Supported Analysis of UAV—Magnetic Launcher’s Cart System
Authors: Sibilska-Mroziewicz Anna , Ładyżyńska-Kozdraś Edyta , Sibilski Krzysztof
Published: May 2023

The subject of the research is a model of a magnetic launcher, which is an innovative alternative to commercially occurring unmanned aircraft launchers (UAV). As the take-off is an energy-demanding phase of the flight; therefore, abandoning the power supply of the UAV during this phase significantly affects increasing the potential range and duration of UAV flight. The magnetic launcher offers the significant advantage of minimizing friction between the starting cart and the launcher, resulting in the higher energy efficiency of the system. Research conducted so far has shown that the possibility of accelerating the aircraft on the longer runway offered by the launcher reduces aircraft overloads occurring during take-off. As a result, the launcher, aircraft, and onboard equipment are much safer. This paper presents the system’s mathematical modeling and numerical simulation results for micro-class UAV take-off and landing using the analyzed magnetic launcher. The computer program for analyzing system dynamics was implemented in the MATLAB environment. Simulation results were visualized graphically and as animations in Virtual Reality. The VR application was implemented in Unity and ran on VR goggles Oculus Quest2. The simulations carried out show that—in the absence of control—an important factor reducing the takeoff distance and affecting the aircraft load is the adoption of a non-zero takeoff thrust of the UAV. The initial pitch angle also has a significant impact on the takeoff process. With an increase in this parameter, the length of the takeoff distance decreases and the lift-off speed decreases, but too much pitch angle may result in the aircraft descending in the first moments of flight, which could lead to a collision with the launch rails.