bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Individual Assessment for Career Development of State Civil Apparatus
Authors: Pau Theresia Maryati Pranatalia , Syarifah Dewi
Published: July 2023

ASN career development must be carried out based on a merit system with qualifications, competencies, performance appraisal and organizational needs in a planned and sustainable manner. Individual assessment carried out for employees to map their competencies that must be developed. It is also necessary to know the career interests of the employees by giving the RIASEC test. This study used descriptive research methods through case studies and the sample in this study was one civil servant at Government Agency X. The purpose of this research is to know the suitability between potential and work interest to occupy a position. Data collection was carried out through an individual assessment process with test and non-test methods. Data analysis of the results was carried out descriptively. The results of the individual assessment will provide an overview of the employee's potential and suitability for his career interests and able to achieve optimal performance.Pengembangan karier ASN wajib dilakukan dengan berbasis sistem merit berdasarkan kualifikasi, kompetensi, penilaian kinerja dan kebutuhan organisasi secara terencana dan berkelanjutan. Asesmen individu yang dilakukan bagi pegawai bertujuan untuk memetakan kompetensi yang harus dikembangkan. Dalam hal ini, perlu diketahui juga minat karier pegawai yang bersangkutan, salah satunya dengan memberikan tes RIASEC. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode penelitian deskriptif melalui studi kasus dan sampel dalam penelitian ini adalah satu orang PNS pada Instansi Pemerintah X. Tujuan dari penelitian ini yaitu mengetahui kesesuaian antara potensi dengan minat kerja yang dimiliki untuk menduduki suatu jabatan. Pengumpulan data dilakukan melalui proses asesmen individu dengan metode tes dan non tes. Analisis data dilakukan secara deskriptif. Hasil asesmen individu akan memberikan gambaran potensi pegawai dan kesesuaian dengan minat karier yang dimilikinya serta diharapkan pegawai mampu mencapai kinerja yang optimal.
Lower summer lake levels in regulated perialpine lakes, caused by climate change
Authors: Wechsler Tobias , Lustenberger Florian , Inderwildi Andreas , Hirschberg Jacob , Schaefli Bettina , Zappa Massimiliano
Published: July 2023

Alpine regions are particularly sensitive to climate change due to the pronounced effect on snow and glacial melt. In this context, large perialpine lakes play a crucial role in modulating climate change impacts on water resources, which brings together diverse interests. However, climate change studies on river systems rarely include lakes or lake level management. An open question is how to incorporate lake level management effects into hydrologic simulations to project climate change impacts. This study focuses on four perialpine lakes in Switzerland, with different levels of lake level management. We combine the hydrologic model PREVAH with the hydrodynamic model MIKE11 to simulate lake level and outflow scenarios from 1981 to 2099, using the Swiss climate change scenarios CH2018. The hydrological projections at the end of the century show pronounced seasonal changes in lake levels, characterised by an increase in winter and a decrease in summer when water demand is highest. Without climate mitigation measures, this summer decrease ranges from -0.04 m for a regulated lake to -0.4 m for an unregulated lake. In addition, the simulations indicate more frequent drought events. The projected changes intensify with time and missing climate mitigation measures. Future work could focus on interannual variability to explore regulatory strategies under changing conditions.
Phenolic compounds in Geranium dalmaticum (Beck) Rech. f. and G. macrorrhizum L. (Geraniaceae)
growing in Croatia
Authors: Kremer Dario , Košir Iztok Jože , Šimunić Marina , Karlović Ksenija , Srečec Siniša , Jurišić Grubešić Renata
Published: July 2023

The quantitative analysis of bioactive phenolic compounds was carried out for the first time in above-ground plant parts of Geranium dalmaticum (Beck) Rech. f. and G. macrorrhizum L. (Geraniaceae) from Croatia by means of UV-Vis spectrophotometric methods and HPLC analysis. Both species had similar contents of polyphenolic substances expressed as mg of standard equivalent /g of dried herbal sample: total polyphenols (217.60 ± 1.08 and 215.53 ± 1.10 mg/g), tannins (155.83 ± 0.60 and 157.73 ± 0.61 mg/g), total flavonoids (5.10 ± 0.10 and 5.53 ± 0.10 mg/g), and total phenolic acids (13.27 ± 1.34 and 15.33 ± 0.45 mg/g), respectively for G. dalmaticum and G. macrorrhizum. Only the content of phenolic acids was somewhat higher in G. macrorrhizum but it was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). HPLC analysis showed that, among seven tested phenolic compounds, only quercetin was quantified in G. dalmaticum (0.23 % of dry weight), and rutin in G. macrorrhizum (1.12 % of dry weight). The obtained results represent a useful basis for further research of phytochemicals and biological activities of G. dalmaticum and G. macrorrhizum extracts.
IoT Botnet Detection and Classification using Machine Learning Algorithms for Improved Cybersecurity
Authors: Pham Van Quan , Nguyễn Năng Hùng Vân
Published: July 2023

n this era of advanced technology, the interconnection of various devices has become a crucial aspect. As a solution to optimize this interconnectivity, the Internet of Things has emerged as a prominent solution. However, ensuring the security of Internet of Things systems is equally essential. Timely detection of potential attacks on Internet of Things systems can effectively mitigaterisks and minimize damages. In the present research, we investigated the efficacyof four algorithms, namely Decision Tree, K Nearest Neighbors , Random Forest, and Extreme Gradient Boosting , in detecting and classifying Internet of Thingsbotnets. Our findings demonstrate that all four algorithms exhibit remarkable effectiveness in detecting and classifying botnets. Among these algorithms, the Extreme Gradient Boosting algorithm achieved the highest accuracy, while the Decision Tree algorithm exhibited the shortest execution time. This study highlightsthe potential of machine learning algorithms in detecting and reducing securitythreats in Internet of Things devices. By leveraging these algorithms, it is possible to detect and classify botnets promptly, thus minimizing the risk of securitybreaches in Internet of Things systems.
A wearable group-synchronized EEG system for multi-subject brain–computer interfaces
Authors: Huang Yong , Huan Yuxiang , Zou Zhuo , Pei Weihua , Gao Xiaorong , Wang Yijun , Zheng Lirong
Published: July 2023

Objective

The multi-subject brain–computer interface (mBCI) is becoming a key tool for the analysis of group behaviors. It is necessary to adopt a neural recording system for collaborative brain signal acquisition, which is usually in the form of a fixed wire.

Approach

In this study, we designed a wireless group-synchronized neural recording system that supports real-time mBCI and event-related potential (ERP) analysis. This system uses a wireless synchronizer to broadcast events to multiple wearable EEG amplifiers. The simultaneously received broadcast signals are marked in data packets to achieve real-time event correlation analysis of multiple targets in a group.

Main results

To evaluate the performance of the proposed real-time group-synchronized neural recording system, we conducted collaborative signal sampling on 10 wireless mBCI devices. The average signal correlation reached 99.8%, the amplitude of average noise was 0.87 μV, and the average common mode rejection ratio (CMRR) reached 109.02 dB. The minimum synchronization error is 237 μs. We also tested the system in real-time processing of the steady-state visual-evoked potential (SSVEP) ranging from 8 to 15.8 Hz. Under 40 target stimulators, with 2 s data length, the average information transfer rate (ITR) reached 150 ± 20 bits/min, and the highest reached 260 bits/min, which was comparable to the marketing leading EEG system (the average: 150 ± 15 bits/min; the highest: 280 bits/min). The accuracy of target recognition in 2 s was 98%, similar to that of the Synamps2 (99%), but a higher signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of 5.08 dB was achieved. We designed a group EEG cognitive experiment; to verify, this system can be used in noisy settings.

Significance

The evaluation results revealed that the proposed real-time group-synchronized neural recording system is a high-performance tool for real-time mBCI research. It is an enabler for a wide range of future applications in collaborative intelligence, cognitive neurology, and rehabilitation.
Fire acupuncture for anti-LGI1 antibody autoimmune encephalitis: a case report
Authors: Liu Yu , Gong Yu , Wu Xiao-li , Hao Xiao-min , Liu Ji-peng , Li Yin-yin , Yang Ke-zhen , Gao Xin-yu , Zhang Jing , Zhang Lin , Zhang Xu-dong , Wang Jun , Liu Qing-guo
Published: July 2023

Autoimmune encephalitis, a class of encephalitis, is clinically characterized by multifocal or diffuse brain injury, including aberrant mental behavior, convulsions, and near-event memory impairment. In this article, we describe a female patient with autoimmune encephalitis who tested positive for leucine-rich glioma inactivated 1 (LGI1) antibodies and had hippocampal inflammatory edema in the lesion area. During the first 3 months of her illness, the patient primarily experienced memory loss, the onset of rigid twitching in her extremities that lasted for 1 min while in remission, and incontinence. After gamma globulin administration, methylprednisolone shock, and other symptomatic therapies during hospitalization, the patient’s psychiatric symptoms and seizures improved considerably; however, she did not fully recover her memory. After receiving fire acupuncture for 6 months, the patient’s understanding, orientation, and calculation skills improved considerably. Her memory and mental state were also improved at the follow-up visit. In this case, the use of fire acupuncture for the treatment of autoimmune encephalitis resulted in favorable outcomes with important benefits for conditions affecting the central nervous system; however, more convincing data are required to support the effectiveness of this treatment method.
Mutant HTT does not affect glial development but impairs myelination in the early disease stage
Authors: Yang Sitong , Ma Jingjing , Zhang Han , Chen Laiqiang , Li Yuxuan , Pan Mingtian , Zhu Hongcheng , Liang Jun , He Dajian , Li Shihua , Li Xiao-Jiang , Guo Xiangyu
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Huntington’s disease (HD) is caused by expanded CAG repeats in the huntingtin gene (HTT) and is characterized by late-onset neurodegeneration that primarily affects the striatum. Several studies have shown that mutant HTT can also affect neuronal development, contributing to the late-onset neurodegeneration. However, it is currently unclear whether mutant HTT impairs the development of glial cells, which is important for understanding whether mutant HTT affects glial cells during early brain development.

Methods

Using HD knock-in mice that express full-length mutant HTT with a 140 glutamine repeat at the endogenous level, we analyzed the numbers of astrocytes and oligodendrocytes from postnatal day 1 to 3 months of age via Western blotting and immunocytochemistry. We also performed electron microscopy, RNAseq analysis, and quantitative RT-PCR.

Results

The numbers of astrocytes and oligodendrocytes were not significantly altered in postnatal HD KI mice compared to wild type (WT) mice. Consistently, glial protein expression levels were not significantly different between HD KI and WT mice. However, at 3 months of age, myelin protein expression was reduced in HD KI mice, as evidenced by Western blotting and immunocytochemical results. Electron microscopy revealed a slight but significant reduction in myelin thickness of axons in the HD KI mouse brain at 3 months of age. RNAseq analysis did not show significant reductions in myelin-related genes in postnatal HD KI mice.

Conclusion

These data suggest that cytoplasmic mutant HTT, rather than nuclear mutant HTT, mediates myelination defects in the early stages of the disease without impacting the differentiation and maturation of glial cells.
Molecular biology of serotonergic systems in avian brains
Authors: Fujita Toshiyuki , Aoki Naoya , Mori Chihiro , Homma Koichi J. , Yamaguchi Shinji
Published: July 2023

Serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) is a phylogenetically conserved neurotransmitter and modulator. Neurons utilizing serotonin have been identified in the central nervous systems of all vertebrates. In the central serotonergic system of vertebrate species examined so far, serotonergic neurons have been confirmed to exist in clusters in the brainstem. Although many serotonin-regulated cognitive, behavioral, and emotional functions have been elucidated in mammals, equivalents remain poorly understood in non-mammalian vertebrates. The purpose of this review is to summarize current knowledge of the anatomical organization and molecular features of the avian central serotonergic system. In addition, selected key functions of serotonin are briefly reviewed. Gene association studies between serotonergic system related genes and behaviors in birds have elucidated that the serotonergic system is involved in the regulation of behavior in birds similar to that observed in mammals. The widespread distribution of serotonergic modulation in the central nervous system and the evolutionary conservation of the serotonergic system provide a strong foundation for understanding and comparing the evolutionary continuity of neural circuits controlling corresponding brain functions within vertebrates. The main focus of this review is the chicken brain, with this type of poultry used as a model bird. The chicken is widely used not only as a model for answering questions in developmental biology and as a model for agriculturally useful breeding, but also in research relating to cognitive, behavioral, and emotional processes. In addition to a wealth of prior research on the projection relationships of avian brain regions, detailed subdivision similarities between avian and mammalian brains have recently been identified. Therefore, identifying the neural circuits modulated by the serotonergic system in avian brains may provide an interesting opportunity for detailed comparative studies of the function of serotonergic systems in mammals.
Bevacizumab-loaded CalliSpheres beads: in vitro loading, release profiles and application in rabbit liver VX2 tumor model
Authors: Ren Kewei , Li Yahua , Zhou Zihe , Wu Kunpeng , Wang Jianan , Yao Jianning , Li Yifan , Ge Xiaoyong , Li Xiao , Li Zhen , Li Zongming , Han Xinwei
Published: July 2023

Background

Bevacizumab loaded drug-eluting beads have the potential to reduce TACE related VEGF expression. The purpose of this study was to investigate the in vitro loading, and release profiles of bevacizumab (BEV) loaded on Callispheres beads (CB) and its application in rabbit liver VX2 tumor model.

Methods

CB with sizes of 100-300 um and 300-500 um were divided into 5 groups, respectively. BEV with different content was prepared for CB loading, releasing and detected in the solution at different time points. The diameters of CB in each group were measured under a light microscope to calculate the shrinkage rate. The rabbit with VX2 liver model were divided into control group, CB-TACE group, CB-TACE+BEV group, and BEV group. The data of blood test, CT image, HE and IHC staining were compared and analyzed.

Results

The shrinkage rate of the 100-300 um CB was 2.6-7.2%, while the 300-500 um CB was 0.2-7.1%. The BEV-loaded CB (BEV-CB) has a burst release during the first hour and following gradually released with time. The release profiles of 100-300 um CB reach 34% in 24 hours, while the 300-500 um CB to 25.8%. BEV-CB with sizes of 100-300 um was chosen to perform transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE). The results showed that BEV-CB-TACE not only gradually increased the content of BEV in serum and organ tissue but also reduced the level of VEGF in serum. Pathological results suggested that the expression of HIF-1 was elevated while VEGF and MVD decreased when compared to the other groups.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this study confirms that Callispheres beads could efficiency loaded BEV. BEV-CB-TACE has a good safety and effectiveness, and its application could reduce the level of VEGF-A in serum in the treatment of VX2 tumors.
Drug Candidates for the Treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease: New Findings from 2021 and 2022
Authors: Motebennur Sujatha L. , Nandeshwarappa Belakatte P. , Katagi Manjunatha S.
Published: July 2023

Alzheimer’s disease (AD), an ongoing neurodegenerative disorder among the elderly, is signalized by amnesia, progressive deficiency in cognitive roles, and behavioral deformity. Over the last ten years, its pathogenesis still remains unclear despite several efforts from various researchers across the globe. There are certain factors that seem to be involved in the progression of the disease such as the accumulation of β-amyloid, oxidative stress, the hyperphosphorylation of tau protein, and a deficit of acetylcholine (ACh). Ongoing therapeutics are mainly based on the cholinergic hypothesis, which suggests that the decrease in the ACh levels leads to the loss of memory. Therefore, increasing the cholinergic function seems to be beneficial. Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (AChEIs) inhibit the enzyme by avoiding the cleavage of acetylcholine (ACh) and increasing the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh) levels in the brain areas. Thus, the cholinergic deficit is the root cause of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Currently, drugs such as tacrine, donepezil, rivastigmine, and galantamine have been launched on the market for a cholinergic approach to AD to increase neurotransmission at cholinergic synapses in the brain and to improve cognition. These commercialized medicines only provide supportive care, and there is a loss of medicinal strength over time. Therefore, there is a demand for investigating a novel molecule that overcomes the drawbacks of commercially available drugs. Therefore, butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), amyloid-β (Aβ), β-secretase-1 (BACE), metals Cu(II), Zn(II), or Fe(II), antioxidant properties, and the free radical scavenging capacity have been primarily targeted in the preceding five years along with targeting the AChE enzyme. A desired, well-established pharmacological profile with a number of hybrid molecules incorporating substructures within a single scaffold has been investigated. From distinct chemical categories such as acridine, quinoline, carbamate, huperzine, and other heterocyclic analogs, the main substructures used in developing these molecules are derived. The optimization of activity through structural modifications of the prototype molecules has been followed to develop the Structure Activity Relationship (SAR), which in turn facilitates the development of novel molecules with expected AChE inhibitory activity together with many more pharmacological properties. The present review outlines the current drug candidates in the advancement of these AChEIs in the last two years.
Automation of Low-Voltage Distribution Grids Using SDNS in South Africa
Authors: Fakude Noah Sindile , Ogudo Kingsley
Published: July 2023

A distribution grid is the dispatching part of the power grid where electricity is finally utilized by the end users. In the electricity industry, automation habitually means the smart grid. The SG is a broad topic with different elements working towards grid optimization. One best way of optimizing a power grid is to balance the electricity supply and usage. This paper proposes an automated approach and presents a coordinative concept to develop a real-time interfacing network for demand-side management mitigations. The SDNS network concept uses a master–slave metering hierarchy to coordinate the devices between the utility and the end users by regulating the electrons’ movement from the utility to the consumer’s side. This concept was tested on MATLAB and a prototype. The results proved the efficiency of this design in demand-side management. The SDNS is an innovative tech, and it also plays a vital role in making consumers role players in easing the grid. The results proved that load management could replace load shedding by correctly implementing the SDNS concept.
A Review on Wind Speed Extreme Values Modeling and Bayes Estimation for Wind Power Plant Design and Construction
Authors: Chiodo Elio , Diban Bassel , Mazzanti Giovanni , De Angelis Fabio
Published: July 2023

Rapid growth of the use of wind energy calls for a more careful representation of wind speed probability distribution, both for identification and estimation purposes. In particular, a key point of the above identification and estimation aspects is representing the extreme values of wind speed probability distributions, which are of great interest both for wind energy applications and structural tower reliability analysis. The paper reviews the most adopted probability distribution models and estimation methods. In particular, for reasons which are properly discussed, attention is focused on the evaluation of an opportune “safety index” related to extreme values of wind speeds or gusts. This topic has gained increasing attention in recent years in both wind energy generation assessment and also in risk and structural reliability and safety analysis. With regard to wind energy generation, there is great sensitivity in the relationship between wind speed extreme upper quantiles and the corresponding wind energy quantiles. Concerning the risk and reliability analysis of structures, extreme wind speed value characterization is useful for a proper understanding of the destructive wind forces that may affect structural tower reliability analysis and, consequently, the proper choice of the cut off wind speed value; therefore, the above two kinds of analyses are somewhat related to each other. The focus is on the applications of the Bayesian inference technique for estimating the above safety index due to its effectiveness and usefulness.
Advanced Machine Learning Techniques for Accurate Very-Short-Term Wind Power Forecasting in Wind Energy Systems Using Historical Data Analysis
Authors: Ponkumar G. , Jayaprakash S. , Kanagarathinam Karthick
Published: July 2023

Accurate wind power forecasting plays a crucial role in the planning of unit commitments, maintenance scheduling, and maximizing profits for power traders. Uncertainty and changes in wind speeds pose challenges to the integration of wind power into the power system. Therefore, the reliable prediction of wind power output is a complex task with significant implications for the efficient operation of electricity grids. Developing effective and precise wind power prediction systems is essential for the cost-efficient operation and maintenance of modern wind turbines. This article focuses on the development of a very-short-term forecasting model using machine learning algorithms. The forecasting model is evaluated using LightGBM, random forest, CatBoost, and XGBoost machine learning algorithms with 16 selected parameters from the wind energy system. The performance of the machine learning-based wind energy forecasting is assessed using metrics such as mean absolute error (MAE), mean-squared error (MSE), root-mean-squared error (RMSE), and R-squared. The results indicate that the random forest algorithm performs well during training, while the CatBoost algorithm demonstrates superior performance, with an RMSE of 13.84 for the test set, as determined by 10-fold cross-validation.
Implementation of Phasor Measurement Unit Based on Phase-Locked Loop Techniques: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Giotopoulos Vasilis , Korres Georgios
Published: July 2023

The dynamic monitoring, control, and protection of modern power systems in real time require time-stamped electrical measurements to accurately estimate the bus voltage phasors using the state estimation function under normal and abnormal conditions. These measurements can be acquired by time-synchronized devices, known as phasor measurement units (PMUs). PMUs can measure bus voltage and branch current phasors of a three-phase network, as well as the frequency and the rate of change of frequency (ROCOF), with high speed, accuracy and time stamping provided by global positioning system (GPS) at the coordinated universal time (UTC). Various phasor estimation algorithms have been proposed in the literature, while most of them are concentrated in the discrete Fourier transform (DFT) algorithm, where an integer number of samples multiple of the nominal frequency is required for the computations. In cases where the frequency of the power grid deviates from its nominal value, the raw application of the DFT approach can lead to large errors during phasor estimation. Another approach of the phasor estimation is based on the phase-locked loop (PLL) techniques, widely used in grid tie inverters. PLL techniques can track dynamically (continuous time) the estimated frequency to the time-variant frequency of the power grid. A brief introduction to the basic concepts of the synchrophasor definition is provided, while the main DFT methods for synchrophasor estimation according to recent literature are mentioned. PLL-based PMU techniques are reviewed for both steady-state and dynamic conditions according to IEEE standards. In conclusion, the performance of PLL-based PMU algorithms presented in this literature review is discussed.
NCOA7 Regulates Growth and Metastasis of Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma via MAPK/ERK Signaling Pathway
Authors: Guo Jiayu , Ke Shuai , Chen Qi , Zhou Jiangqiao , Guo Jia , Qiu Tao
Published: July 2023

NCOA7 is a nuclear receptor coactivator that is downregulated in a variety of cancers. However, the expression and prognostic significance of NCOA7 in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) remain unknown. The expression of NCOA7 in ccRCC tissues was analyzed using bioinformatics analysis, Western blotting, and immunohistochemistry. Kaplan–Meier analysis, the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, and clinicopathological correlation analysis were used to assess the predictive power of NCOA7. Overexpression function tests were conducted in cells and mouse models to clarify the function and mechanism of NCOA7 in inhibiting the progression of ccRCC. NCOA7 expression was downregulated in all three subtypes of renal cell carcinoma, and only had significant prognostic value for patients with ccRCC. NCOA7 overexpression inhibited the proliferation, invasion, and metastasis of ccRCC cells in vivo and in vitro. Mechanistically, NCOA7 inhibited the MAPK/ERK pathway to regulate epithelial–mesenchymal transformation (EMT) and apoptosis, thereby inhibiting the progression of ccRCC. NCOA7 inhibits tumor growth and metastasis of ccRCC through the MAPK/ERK pathway, thus indicating its potential as a prognostic marker and therapeutic target for ccRCC.
Involvement of Serotonergic Projections from the Dorsal Raphe to the Medial Preoptic Area in the Regulation of the Pup-Directed Paternal Response of Male Mandarin Voles
Authors: Lv Zijian , Li Lu , Li Yin , Zhang Lizi , Guo Xing , Huang Caihong , Hou Wenjuan , Qu Yishan , Liu Limin , Li Yitong , He Zhixiong , Tai Fadao
Published: July 2023

Male mammals display different paternal responses to pups, either attacking or killing the young offspring, or contrastingly, caring for them. The neural circuit mechanism underlying the between-individual variation in the pup-directed responsiveness of male mammals remains unclear. Monogamous mandarin voles were used to complete the present study. The male individuals were identified as paternal and infanticidal voles, according their behavioral responses to pups. It was found that the serotonin release in the medial preoptic area (MPOA), as well as the serotonergic neuron activity, significantly increased upon licking the pups, but showed no changes after attacking the pups, as revealed by the in vivo fiber photometry of the fluorescence signal from the 5-HT 1.0 sensor and the calcium imaging indicator, respectively. It was verified that the 5-HTergic neural projections to the MPOA originated mainly from the ventral part of the dorsal raphe (vDR). Furthermore, the chemogenetic inhibition of serotonergic projections from the vDR to the MPOA decreased the paternal behaviors and shortened the latency to attack the pups. In contrast, the activation of serotonergic neurons via optogenetics extended the licking duration and inhibited infanticide. Collectively, these results elucidate that the serotonergic projections from the vDR to the MPOA, a previously unrecognized pathway, regulate the paternal responses of virgin male mandarin voles to pups.
Apoptosis and Autophagy, Different Modes of Cell Death: How to Utilize Them to Fight Diseases?
Authors: Takács-Vellai Krisztina
Published: July 2023

A careful balance between cell death and survival is of key importance when it comes to the maintenance of cellular homeostasis [...]
Impact of Mir196a-2 Genotypes on Colorectal Cancer Risk in Taiwan
Authors: Yueh Te-Cheng , Wang Yun-Chi , Chin Yu-Ting , Hung Yi-Chih , Mong Mei-Chin , Yang Ya-Chen , Pei Jen-Sheng , Gu Jian , Tsai Chia-Wen , Bau Da-Tian , Chang Wen-Shin
Published: July 2023

We aimed to investigate the association between genotypes for mir146a and mir196a-2 and the risk of developing colorectal cancer (CRC). We used polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) to determine the mir146a rs2910164 and mir196a-2 rs11614913 genotypes in 362 CRC patients and 362 controls. We also assessed the interactions between these genotypes and age, gender, smoking, alcohol consumption, and BMI status on CRC risk. Additionally, the serum expression level of mir196a-2 was quantified using quantitative reverse transcription-PCR. Our findings demonstrated that among the controls, the proportions of TT, CT, and CC genotypes of mir196a-2 rs11614913 were 32.3%, 48.1%, and 19.6%, respectively. As for the cases, the proportions were 24.6%, 45.0%, and 30.4%, respectively. Logistic regression analysis revealed that the CC genotype carriers had a 2.04-fold increased risk (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.36–3.06, p = 0.0008). Furthermore, carriers of the CT + CC genotypes also exhibited a significant association with CRC risk (odds ratio [OR] = 1.46, 95% CI = 1.06–2.03, p = 0.0261). Moreover, carriers of the CC genotype had significantly higher serum levels of mir196a-2 compared to those with the TT genotype (p < 0.0001), indicating a genotype-phenotype correlation. No association was found regarding mir146a rs2910164. In conclusion, mir196a-2 rs2910164 genotypes, along with their associated expression, can serve as predictive markers for CRC risk.
Cell Profiling of Acute Kidney Injury to Chronic Kidney Disease Reveals Novel Oxidative Stress Characteristics in the Failed Repair of Proximal Tubule Cells
Authors: Yu Zhixiang , Zhou Ying , Zhang Yuzhan , Ning Xiaoxuan , Li Tian , Wei Lei , Wang Yingxue , Bai Xiao , Sun Shiren
Published: July 2023

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major public health issue around the world. A significant number of CKD patients originates from acute kidney injury (AKI) patients, namely “AKI–CKD”. CKD is significantly related to the consequences of AKI. Damaged renal proximal tubular (PT) cell repair has been widely confirmed to indicate the renal prognosis of AKI. Oxidative stress is a key damage-associated factor and plays a significant role throughout the development of AKI and CKD. However, the relationships between AKI–CKD progression and oxidative stress are not totally clear and the underlying mechanisms in “AKI–CKD” remain indistinct. In this research, we constructed unilateral ischemia–reperfusion injury (UIRI)-model mice and performed single-nucleus RNA sequencing (snRNA-seq) of the kidney samples from UIRI and sham mice. We obtained our snRNA-seq data and validated the findings based on the joint analysis of public databases, as well as a series of fundamental experiments. Proximal tubular cells associated with failed repair express more complete senescence and oxidative stress characteristics compared to other subgroups. Furthermore, oxidative stress-related transcription factors, including Stat3 and Dnmt3a, are significantly more active under the circumstance of failed repair. What is more, we identified abnormally active intercellular communication between PT cells associated with failed repair and macrophages through the APP–CD74 pathway. More notably, we observed that the significantly increased expression of CD74 in hypoxia-treated TECs (tubular epithelial cells) was dependent on adjacently infiltrated macrophages, which was essential for the further deterioration of failed repair in PT cells. This research provides a novel understanding of the process of AKI to CKD progression, and the oxidative stress-related characteristics that we identified might represent a potentially novel therapeutic strategy against AKI.
Obese Asthma Phenotype Is Associated with hsa-miR-26a-1-3p and hsa-miR-376a-3p Modulating the IGF Axis
Authors: Gil-Martínez Marta , Lorente-Sorolla Clara , Rodrigo-Muñoz José M. , Naharro Sara , García-de Castro Zahara , Sastre Joaquín , Valverde-Monge Marcela , Quirce Santiago , Caballero María L. , Olaguibel José M. , del Pozo Victoria
Published: July 2023

Clarifying inflammatory processes and categorising asthma into phenotypes and endotypes improves asthma management. Obesity worsens severe asthma and reduces quality of life, although its specific molecular impact remains unclear. We previously demonstrated that hsa-miR-26a-1-3p and hsa-miR-376a-3p, biomarkers related to an inflammatory profile, discriminate eosinophilic from non-eosinophilic asthmatics. We aimed to study hsa-miR-26a-1-3p, hsa-miR-376a-3p, and their target genes in asthmatic subjects with or without obesity to find biomarkers and comprehend obese asthma mechanisms. Lung tissue samples were obtained from asthmatic patients (n = 16) and healthy subjects (n = 20). We measured miRNA expression using RT-qPCR and protein levels (IGF axis) by ELISA in confirmation samples from eosinophilic (n = 38) and non-eosinophilic (n = 39) obese (n = 26) and non-obese (n = 51) asthma patients. Asthmatic lungs showed higher hsa-miR-26a-1-3p and hsa-miR-376a-3p expression than healthy lungs. A study of seven genes regulated by these miRNAs revealed differential expression of IGFBP3 between asthma patients and healthy individuals. In obese asthma patients, we found higher hsa-miR-26a-1-3p and IGF-1R values and lower values for hsa-miR-376a-3p and IGFBP-3. Hsa-miR-26a-1-3p and IGFBP-3 were directly and inversely correlated with body mass index, respectively. Hsa-miR-26a-1-3p and hsa-miR-376a-3p could be used as biomarkers to phenotype patients with eosinophilic and non-eosinophilic asthma in relation to comorbid obesity.
Transcriptional Modulation Reveals Physiological Responses to Temperature Adaptation in Acrossocheilus fasciatus
Authors: Wei Zhenzhu , Fang Yi , Shi Wei , Chu Zhangjie , Zhao Bo
Published: July 2023

In order to explore the molecular regulatory mechanism of temperature acclimation under long-term temperature stress in Acrossocheilus fasciatus, this study used high-throughput sequencing technology to analyze 60 days of breeding under five temperature conditions (12 °C, 16 °C, 20 °C, 24 °C, 28 °C). Compared with 20 °C, 9202, 4959 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were discovered in low-temperature groups (12 °C, 16 °C), whereas 133 and 878 DEGs were discovered in high-temperature groups (24 °C, 28 °C), respectively. The KEGG functional enrichment analysis revealed that DEGs were primarily enriched in tight junction, PI3 K-Akt signaling pathway and protein digestion and absorption in low-temperature groups, and mainly enriched in proximal tubule bicarbonate reclamation, protein digestion and absorption, and HIF-1 signaling pathway in high-temperature groups. The viability of transcriptome sequencing-based screening of DEGs for temperature adaptation in A. fasciatus was shown by the selection of eight DEGs for further validation by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), the findings of which were consistent with the RNA-seq data. According to the findings, protein digestion and absorption were primarily regulated by temperature variations, physiological stress was a significant regulator in regulation under high-temperature stress, and the immune system was a significant regulator in regulation under low-temperature stress. The transcriptional patterns of A. fasciatus under temperature stress are revealed in this study. This knowledge is crucial for understanding how A. fasciatus adapts to temperature and can help us better comprehend the environmental difficulties that A. fasciatus adaptation faces.
Neurofilament-Light, a Promising Biomarker: Analytical, Metrological and Clinical Challenges
Authors: Coppens Salomé , Lehmann Sylvain , Hopley Christopher , Hirtz Christophe
Published: July 2023

Neurofilament-light chain (Nf-L) is a non-specific early-stage biomarker widely studied in the context of neurodegenerative diseases (NDD) and traumatic brain injuries (TBI), which can be measured in biofluids after axonal damage. Originally measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), Nf-L can now be quantified in blood with the emergence of ultrasensitive assays. However, to ensure successful clinical implementation, reliable clinical thresholds and reference measurement procedures (RMP) should be developed. This includes establishing and distributing certified reference materials (CRM). As a result of the complexity of Nf-L and the number of circulating forms, a clear definition of what is measured when immunoassays are used is also critical to achieving standardization to ensure the long-term success of those assays. The use of powerful tools such as mass spectrometry for developing RMP and defining the measurand is ongoing. Here, we summarize the current methods in use for quantification of Nf-L in biofluid showing potential for clinical implementation. The progress and challenges in developing RMP and defining the measurand for Nf-L standardization of diagnostic tests are addressed. Finally, we discuss the impact of pathophysiological factors on Nf-L levels and the establishment of a clinical cut-off.
Special Issue: “Bioinformatics and Omics Tools”
Authors: Vitorino Rui
Published: July 2023

With the rapid introduction of high-throughput omics approaches such as genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics and metabolomics, the generation of large amounts of data has become a fundamental aspect of modern biological research [...]
Characterization of Complex Concentrated Alloys and Their Potential in Car Brake Manufacturing
Authors: Anasiei Ioana , Mitrica Dumitru , Badea Ioana-Cristina , Șerban Beatrice-Adriana , Trapp Johannes , Storz Andreas , Carcea Ioan , Olaru Mihai Tudor , Burada Marian , Constantin Nicolae , Matei Alexandru Cristian , Popescu Ana-Maria Julieta , Ghiță Mihai
Published: July 2023

The paper studies new materials for brake disks used in car manufacturing. The materials used in the manufacturing of the brake disc must adapt and correlate with the challenges of current society. There is a tremendous interest in the development of a material that has high strength, good heat transfer, corrosion resistance and low density, in order to withstand high-breaking forces, high heat and various adverse environment. Low-density materials improve fuel efficiency and environmental impact. Complex concentrated alloys (CCA) are metallic element mixtures with multi-principal elements, which can respond promisingly to this challenge with their variety of properties. Several compositions were studied through thermodynamic criteria calculations (entropy of mixing, enthalpy of mixing, lambda coefficient, etc.) and CALPHAD modeling, in order to determine appropriate structures. The selected compositions were obtained in an induction furnace with a protective atmosphere and then subjected to an annealing process. Alloy samples presented uniform phase distribution, a high-melting temperature (over 1000 °C), high hardness (1000–1400 HV), good corrosion resistance in 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution (under 0.2 mm/year) and a low density (under 6 g/cm3).
Exploring Ln(III)-Ion-Based Luminescent Species as Down-Shifters for Photovoltaic Solar Cells
Authors: Brito-Santos Gabriela , Hernández-Rodríguez Cecilio , Gil-Hernández Beatriz , Sanchiz Joaquín , Martín Inocencio R. , González-Díaz Benjamín , Guerrero-Lemus Ricardo
Published: July 2023

In this work, we have compiled our research on lanthanide-based luminescent materials for use as down-shifter layers in photovoltaic (PV) mini-modules. The complexes we have prepared (C1–17), with formulas [Eu2(phen)2(bz)6] (C1), [Eu2(bphen)2(bz)6] (C2), [Eu(tta)3bphen] (C3), [Eu(bta)3pyz-phen] (C4), [Eu(tta)3pyz-phen] (C5), [Eu(bta)3me-phen] (C6), [Er(bta)3me-phen] (C7), [Yb(bta)3me-phen] (C8), [Gd(bta)3me-phen] (C9), [Yb(bta)3pyz-phen] (C10), [Er(tta)3pyz-phen] (C11), [Eu2(bz)4(tta)2(phen)2] (C12), [Gd2(bz)4(tta)2(phen)2] (C13), [EuTb(bz)4(tta)2(phen)2] (C14), [EuGd(bz)4(tta)2(phen)2] (C15), [Eu1.2Gd0.8(bz)4(tta)2(phen)2] (C16), and [Eu1.6Gd0.4(bz)4(tta)2(phen)2] (C17), can be grouped into three families based on their composition: Complexes C1–6 were synthesized using Eu3+ ions and phenanthroline derivatives as the neutral ligands and fluorinated β-diketonates as the anionic ligands. Complexes C7–11 were prepared with ligands similar to those of complexes C1–6 but were synthesized with Er3+, Yb3+, or Gd3+ ions. Complexes C12–17 have the general formula [M1M2(bz)4(tta)2(phen)2], where M1 and M2 can be Eu3+, Gd3+, or Tb3+ ions, and the ligands were benzoate (bz–), 2-thenoyltrifluoroacetone (tta–), and 1,10–phenanthroline (phen). Most of the complexes were characterized using X-ray techniques, and their photoluminescent properties were studied. We then assessed the impact of complexes in the C1–6 and C12–17 series on the EQE of PV mini-modules and examined the durability of one of the complexes (C6) in a climate chamber when embedded in PMMA and EVA films. This study emphasizes the methodology employed and the key findings, including enhanced mini-module efficiency. Additionally, we present promising results on the application of complex C6 in a bifacial solar cell.
Experimental and Numerical Study on Mechanical Behavior of Steel/GFRP/CFRP Hybrid Structure under Bending Loading with Adhesive Bond Strength Assessment
Authors: Marszałek Jerzy , Stadnicki Jacek
Published: July 2023

Adhesive bonding between steel and carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) composite leads to hybrid structures that combine the high strength and ductility of steel with the excellent specific strength and stiffness of CFRP composite. There is, however, a concern regarding possible galvanic corrosion when steel and carbon fibers are bonded together. One way to overcome this problem is placing glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) composite between the steel and CFRP composite, creating a more complex steel/GFRP/CFRP hybrid structure. Therefore, experimental and numerical studies on the mechanical behavior of the adhesive bonds between the steel sheet and the GFRP/CFRP hybrid composite were carried out. Among the different failure patterns, mode II was chosen for analysis because metal–polymer composite structures are usually subjected to bending, and debonding may occur due to in-plane shear stress. The tested steel/GFRP/CFRP hybrid structure was made of a hot-formed 22MnB5 boron steel sheet, intermediate single-ply bidirectional GFRP composite, and three-ply unidirectional CFRP composite. Additional mechanical tests were also carried out to determine various engineering constants of the components to simulate the debonding process. A finite element model of the steel/GFRP/CFRP hybrid structure with a typical cohesive interface was established and verified against the experimental data. The results showed that due to the use of various materials, the dominant failure modes in the hybrid structure under bending loading were a brittle fracture of the CFRP composite and debonding between the steel and the GFRP composite. However, the load-bearing capacity of the hybrid structure was five times greater than that of a non-reinforced steel sheet. In addition, its mass was only 28% greater than the non-reinforced steel sheet. The obtained results provided valuable conclusions and useful data to continue further research on the mechanical behavior of steel/GFRP/CFRP hybrid structures.
The Strength and Fracture Characteristics of One-Part Strain-Hardening Green Alkali-Activated Engineered Composites
Authors: Hossain Khandaker M. Anwar , Sood Dhruv
Published: July 2023

Alkali-activated engineered composites (AAECs) are cement-free composites developed using alkali activation technology, which exhibit strain hardening and multiple micro-cracking like conventional engineered cementitious composites (ECCs). Such AAECs are developed in this study by incorporating 2% v/v polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) fibers into alkali-activated mortars (AAMs) produced using binary/ternary combinations of fly ash class C (FA-C), fly ash class F (FA-F), and ground-granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS) with powder-form alkaline reagents and silica sand through a one-part mixing method under ambient curing conditions. The mechanical and microstructural characteristics of eight AAECs are investigated to characterize their strain-hardening performance based on existing (stress and energy indices) and newly developed tensile/flexural ductility indices. The binary (FA-C + GGBFS) AAECs obtained higher compressive strengths (between 48 MPa and 52 MPa) and ultrasonic pulse velocities (between 3358 m/s and 3947 m/s) than their ternary (FA-C + FA-F + GGBFS) counterparts. The ternary AAECs obtained a higher fracture energy than their binary counterparts. The AAECs incorporating reagent 2 (Ca(OH)2: Na2SO4 = 2.5:1) obtained a greater fracture energy and compressive strengths than their counterparts with reagent 1 (Ca(OH)2: Na2SiO3.5H2O = 1:2.5), due to additional C-S-H gel formation, which increased their energy absorption for crack propagation through superior multiple-cracking behavior. A lower fracture and crack-tip toughness facilitated the development of enhanced flexural strength characteristics with higher flexural strengths (ranging from 5.3 MPa to 11.3 MPa) and a higher energy ductility of the binary AAMs compared to their ternary counterparts. The tensile stress relaxation process was relatively gradual in the binary AAECs, owing to the formation of a more uniform combination of reaction products (C-S-H/C-A-S-H) rather than a blend of amorphous (N-C-A-S-H/N-A-S-H) and crystalline (C-A-S-H/C-S-H) binding phases in the case of the ternary AAECs. All the AAECs demonstrated tensile strain-hardening characteristics at 28 days, with significant improvements from 28% to 100% in the maximum bridging stresses for mixes incorporating 40% to 45% GGBFS at 365 days. This study confirmed the viability of producing green cement-free strain-hardening alkali-activated composites with powder-form reagents, with satisfactory mechanical characteristics under ambient conditions.
Deep Learning for Optical Sensor Applications: A Review
Authors: Al-Ashwal Nagi H. , Al Soufy Khaled A. M. , Hamza Mohga E. , Swillam Mohamed A.
Published: July 2023

Over the past decade, deep learning (DL) has been applied in a large number of optical sensors applications. DL algorithms can improve the accuracy and reduce the noise level in optical sensors. Optical sensors are considered as a promising technology for modern intelligent sensing platforms. These sensors are widely used in process monitoring, quality prediction, pollution, defence, security, and many other applications. However, they suffer major challenges such as the large generated datasets and low processing speeds for these data, including the high cost of these sensors. These challenges can be mitigated by integrating DL systems with optical sensor technologies. This paper presents recent studies integrating DL algorithms with optical sensor applications. This paper also highlights several directions for DL algorithms that promise a considerable impact on use for optical sensor applications. Moreover, this study provides new directions for the future development of related research.