bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carbon Elastic and Inelastic Stopping-Power Components for Heavy Ions at Bohr and Higher Velocities
Authors: Sagaidak Roman N.
Published: May 2023

Carbon stopping power (SP) data for heavy ions (HIs), obtained around Bohr velocities, revealed remarkably lower values than those predicted using the SRIM/TRIM calculations/simulations. An attempt was made to extract the elastic (collisional) and inelastic (electronic) components from the available SP data obtained in experiments. A problem is that essentially, total SP is measured in experiments, whereas electronic SP values, usually presented as the results, are derived via the subtraction of the calculated collisional component from the measured values. At high HI reduced velocities (V/v0)/ZHI2/3≳0.3 (V and v0 are HI and Bohr velocities, respectively, and ZHI is the HI atomic number), the collisional component can be neglected, whereas at Bohr velocities it becomes comparable to the electronic one. These circumstances were used to compare the experimental SP data with the SRIM/TRIM calculations/simulations and to empirically obtain corrections to the collisional and inelastic SP components.
A Clustering-Based Approach to Detecting Critical Traffic Road Segments in Urban Areas
Authors: Košanin Ivan , Gnjatović Milan , Maček Nemanja , Joksimović Dušan
Published: May 2023

This paper introduces a parameter-free clustering-based approach to detecting critical traffic road segments in urban areas, i.e., road segments of spatially prolonged and high traffic accident risk. In addition, it proposes a novel domain-specific criterion for evaluating the clustering results, which promotes the stability of the clustering results through time and inter-period accident spatial collocation, and penalizes the size of the selected clusters. To illustrate the proposed approach, it is applied to data on traffic accidents with injuries or death that occurred in three of the largest cities of Serbia over the three-year period.
A Two-Stage Large Group Decision-Making Method Based on a Self-Confident Double Hierarchy Interval Hesitant Fuzzy Language
Authors: Zhang Wenyu , Cao Mengyao , Wang Lei
Published: May 2023

With the development of the cloud computing era, the decision-making environment and algorithm models have become increasingly complex, and traditional decision-making methods have been unable to meet the needs of large group decision-making (LGDM) problems. Firstly, in order to solve this problem, the concept of double hierarchy interval hesitant fuzzy language (DHIHFL) is proposed. Compared with the traditional double hierarchy hesitant fuzzy language (DHHFL), it contains all elements from the lower limit to the upper limit and more comprehensively characterizes the hesitation of language information. Secondly, for LGDM problems, a self-confident double hierarchy interval hesitant fuzzy language (SC-DHIHFL) is developed, and the integration of self-confident degree can better enrich the evaluation information and promote the achievement of group consensus. Thirdly, a new two-stage LGDM method is proposed. The first stage is clustering and grouping and reaching consensus within the group, and the second stage is the integration of LGDM information. The two-stage method contains novel methods such as expert clustering algorithm, subjective and objective comprehensive weight, consensus degree, and deviation weight considering minority opinions. Finally, the proposed LGDM consensus method is applied to a practical LGDM problem, and the effectiveness is verified by comparative analysis with existing methods.
Series of Convergence Rate −1/4 Containing Harmonic Numbers
Authors: Li Chunli , Chu Wenchang
Published: May 2023

Two general transformations for hypergeometric series are examined by means of the coefficient extraction method. Several interesting closed formulae are shown for infinite series containing harmonic numbers and binomial/multinomial coefficients. Among them, three conjectured identities due to Z.-W. Sun are also confirmed.
Some Optimal Classes of Estimators Based on Multi-Auxiliary Information
Authors: Bhushan Shashi , Kumar Anoop , Alsadat Najwan , Mustafa Manahil SidAhmed , Alsolmi Meshayil M.
Published: May 2023

Ranked set sampling (RSS) has been proven an efficient alternative to simple random sampling (SRS). The use of auxiliary information also helps to improve the efficiency of the estimation procedures. Therefore, to accomplish higher efficiency and discuss the optimality issues, we proffer some optimal classes of estimators under RSS by employing multi-auxiliary information. It is seen that the ordinary mean estimator, traditional regression, and ratio estimators are the subsets of the proffered estimators. The expressions of the bias and mean square error are reported. An analytical comparison under some optimality conditions points out the ascendancy of the proffered classes of estimators over all reviewed works. The theoretical results have been furnished with computational study by employing some artificial and natural populations. The computational results show that the proffered estimators outperform the conventional estimators reviewed in this study. Furthermore, apposite advices are suggested to the survey persons.
Evaluation of Digital Banking Implementation Indicators and Models in the Context of Industry 4.0: A Fuzzy Group MCDM Approach
Authors: Amiri Maghsoud , Hashemi-Tabatabaei Mohammad , Keshavarz-Ghorabaee Mehdi , Antucheviciene Jurgita , Šaparauskas Jonas , Keramatpanah Mohsen
Published: May 2023

Modern technologies have changed human life and created a generation of customers who have different needs compared to the past. Considering Industry 4.0 and its drivers, the implementation of digital banking (DB) has faced various challenges that are caused by emerging trends. Both Industry 4.0 and DB are contemporary concepts, and decision-makers are often faced with uncertainties in their decisions regarding the implementation of DB and its indicators. For this purpose, a novel multi-criteria group decision-making approach has been developed utilizing the best–worst method (BWM) and α-cut analysis as well as trapezoidal fuzzy numbers (TFNs). By reviewing the literature and using experts’ opinions, the DB implementation criteria are determined, and considering an uncertain environment, the criteria are prioritized using the proposed method. Then, the available DB models and alternatives are examined based on the decision criteria and the importance of each criterion. This research contributes to the existing literature by identifying and prioritizing the criteria necessary for the successful implementation of DB, taking into account emerging trends and technological advances driven by Industry 4.0. Subsequently, the study prioritizes the prevalent models of DB based on these criteria. This study proposes a decision-support framework for dealing with ambiguity, lack of information, insufficient knowledge, and uncertainty in decision-making. The framework uses TFNs to account for imprecision and doubt in decision-makers’ preferences. Additionally, the study presents a fuzzy multi-criteria group decision-making approach that enables a group of experts to arrive at more reliable results. The proposed approach can help improve the quality of decision-making in complex and uncertain situations. The results of this research show that human resources, rules and regulations, and customer satisfaction are the most important criteria for implementing DB. In addition, the open, blockchain, and social banking models are the crucial models that significantly cover the implementation criteria for DB.
The Use of Human Sterilized Crushed Tooth Particles Compared with BTCP Biomaterial and Empty Defects in Bone Formation inside Critical Rabbit Calvaria Sites
Authors: Calvo-Guirado José Luis , Cabo-Pastor Marta Belén , Martínez-Martínez Francisco , Garcés-Villalá Miguel Ángel , de Carlos-Villafranca Félix , García-Carrillo Nuria , Fernández-Domínguez Manuel
Published: May 2023

This study aimed to assess the bone regeneration of critical-size defects in rabbit calvaria filled with freshly crushed extracted teeth, comparing them with BTCP biomaterial and empty sites. Materials and methods: Twenty-one female New Zealand rabbits were used in this study. Two critical-size defects 6 mm in size were created in the skull bone, each with a 3 mm separation between them. Three experimental groups were evaluated: Group A (human sterilized crushed teeth granules alone), Group B (Bioner Bone, Bioner Sitemas Implantológicos), and Group C (unfilled defects). The animals were sacrificed at 4 and 8 weeks. Evaluation of the samples involved histological and histomorphometric analyses with radiographic evaluation. The histological evaluation showed a higher volume reduction in Group A compared with Group B (p < 0.05) and Control. Group A showed the highest values for cortical closure and bone formation around the particles, followed by Group B and Group C (p < 0.05). Within the limitations of this animal study, we can conclude that the use of human tooth particles leads to increased bone formation and reduced connective tissue in critical-size defects in rabbit calvaria when compared to BTCP biomaterial. The calvarial model is a robust base for the evaluation of different biomaterials.
Detection of Corneal Ulcer Using a Genetic Algorithm-Based Image Selection and Residual Neural Network
Authors: Inneci Tugba , Badem Hasan
Published: May 2023

Corneal ulcer is one of the most devastating eye diseases causing permanent damage. There exist limited soft techniques available for detecting this disease. In recent years, deep neural networks (DNN) have significantly solved numerous classification problems. However, many samples are needed to obtain reasonable classification performance using a DNN with a huge amount of layers and weights. Since collecting a data set with a large number of samples is usually a difficult and time-consuming process, very large-scale pre-trained DNNs, such as the AlexNet, the ResNet and the DenseNet, can be adapted to classify a dataset with a small number of samples, through the utility of transfer learning techniques. Although such pre-trained DNNs produce successful results in some cases, their classification performances can be low due to many parameters, weights and the emergence of redundancy features that repeat themselves in many layers in som cases. The proposed technique removes these unnecessary features by systematically selecting images in the layers using a genetic algorithm (GA). The proposed method has been tested on ResNet on a small-scale dataset which classifies corneal ulcers. According to the results, the proposed method significantly increased the classification performance compared to the classical approaches.
Monitoring Snake Venom-Induced Extracellular Matrix Degradation and Identifying Proteolytically Active Venom Toxins Using Fluorescently Labeled Substrates
Authors: Bittenbinder Mátyás A. , Bergkamp Nick D. , Slagboom Julien , Bebelman Jan Paul M. , Casewell Nicholas R. , Siderius Marco H. , Smit Martine J. , Kool Jeroen , Vonk Freek J.
Published: May 2023

Snakebite envenoming is an important public health issue with devastating consequences and annual mortality rates that range between 81,000 and 138,000. Snake venoms may cause a range of pathophysiological effects affecting the nervous system and the cardiovascular system. Moreover, snake venom may have tissue-damaging activities that result in lifelong morbidities such as amputations, muscle degeneration, and organ malfunctioning. The tissue-damaging components in snake venoms comprise multiple toxin classes with various molecular targets including cellular membranes and the extracellular matrix (ECM). In this study, we present multiple assay formats that enable investigation of snake venom-induced ECM degradation using a variety of (dye-quenched) fluorescently labeled ECM components. Using a combinatorial approach, we were able to characterise different proteolytic profiles for different medically relevant snake venoms, followed by identification of the responsible components within the snake venoms. This workflow could provide valuable insights into the key mechanisms by which proteolytic venom components exert their effects and could therefore prove useful for the development of effective snakebite treatments against this severe pathology.
Biliverdin Reductase B Is a Plasma Biomarker for Intraplaque Hemorrhage and a Predictor of Ischemic Stroke in Patients with Symptomatic Carotid Atherosclerosis
Authors: Chemaly Melody , Marlevi David , Iglesias Maria-Jesus , Lengquist Mariette , Kronqvist Malin , Bos Daniel , van Dam-Nolen Dianne H. K. , van der Kolk Anja , Hendrikse Jeroen , Kassem Mohamed , Matic Ljubica , Odeberg Jacob , de Vries Margreet R. , Kooi M. Eline , Hedin Ulf
Published: May 2023

Background: Intraplaque hemorrhage (IPH) is a hallmark of atherosclerotic plaque instability. Biliverdin reductase B (BLVRB) is enriched in plasma and plaques from patients with symptomatic carotid atherosclerosis and functionally associated with IPH. Objective: We explored the biomarker potential of plasma BLVRB through (1) its correlation with IPH in carotid plaques assessed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and with recurrent ischemic stroke, and (2) its use for monitoring pharmacotherapy targeting IPH in a preclinical setting. Methods: Plasma BLVRB levels were measured in patients with symptomatic carotid atherosclerosis from the PARISK study (n = 177, 5 year follow-up) with and without IPH as indicated by MRI. Plasma BLVRB levels were also measured in a mouse vein graft model of IPH at baseline and following antiangiogenic therapy targeting vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR-2). Results: Plasma BLVRB levels were significantly higher in patients with IPH (737.32 ± 693.21 vs. 520.94 ± 499.43 mean fluorescent intensity (MFI), p = 0.033), but had no association with baseline clinical and biological parameters. Plasma BLVRB levels were also significantly higher in patients who developed recurrent ischemic stroke (1099.34 ± 928.49 vs. 582.07 ± 545.34 MFI, HR = 1.600, CI [1.092–2.344]; p = 0.016). Plasma BLVRB levels were significantly reduced following prevention of IPH by anti-VEGFR-2 therapy in mouse vein grafts (1189 ± 258.73 vs. 1752 ± 366.84 MFI; p = 0.004). Conclusions: Plasma BLVRB was associated with IPH and increased risk of recurrent ischemic stroke in patients with symptomatic low- to moderate-grade carotid stenosis, indicating the capacity to monitor the efficacy of IPH-preventive pharmacotherapy in an animal model. Together, these results suggest the utility of plasma BLVRB as a biomarker for atherosclerotic plaque instability.
Prognostic, Immunological, and Mutational Analysis of MTA2 in Pan-Cancer and Drug Screening for Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Huang Xueshan , Tan Jingyi , Chen Mei , Zheng Weirang , Zou Shanyang , Ye Xiaoxia , Li Yutong , Wu Minhua
Published: May 2023

Background: Metastasis-associated protein 2 (MTA2) is a member of the metastasis-associated transcriptional regulator family and is a core component of the nucleosome remodeling and histone deacetylation complex. Despite growing evidence that MTA2 plays a crucial role in the tumorigenesis of certain cancers, no systematic pan-cancer analysis of MTA2 is available to date. Therefore, the aim of our study is to explore the prognostic value of MTA2 in 33 cancer types and to investigate its potential immune function. Methods: by comprehensive use of databases from TCGA, GTEx, GEO, UCSC xena, cBioPortal, comPPI, GeneMANIA, TCIA, MSigDB, and PDB, we applied various bioinformatics approaches to investigate the potential role of MTA2, including analyzing the association of MTA2 with MSI, prognosis, gene mutation, and immune cell infiltration in different tumors. We constructed a nomogram in TCGA-LIHC, performed single-cell sequencing (scRNA-seq) analysis of MTA2 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and screened drugs for the treatment of HCC. Finally, immunohistochemical experiments were performed to verify the expression and prognostic value of MTA2 in HCC. In vitro experiments were employed to observe the growth inhibition effects of MK-886 on the HCC cell line HepG2. Results: The results suggested that MTA2 was highly expressed in most cancers, and MTA2 expression was associated with the prognosis of different cancers. In addition, MTA2 expression was associated with Tumor Mutation Burden (TMB) in 12 cancer types and MSI in 8 cancer types. Immunoassays indicated that MTA2 positively correlated with activated memory CD4 T cells and M0 macrophage infiltration levels in HCC. ScRNA-seq analysis based on the GEO dataset discovered that MTA2 was significantly expressed in T cells in HCC. Finally, the eXtreme Sum (Xsum) algorithm was used to screen the antitumor drug MK-886, and the molecular docking technique was utilized to reveal the binding capacity between MK-886 and the MTA2 protein. The results demonstrated excellent binding sites between them, which bind to each other through Π-alkyl and alkyl interaction forces. An immunohistochemistry experiment showed that MTA2 protein was highly expressed in HCC, and high MTA2 expression was associated with poor survival in HCC patients. MK-886 significantly inhibited the proliferation and induced cell death of HepG2 cells in a dose-dependent manner. Conclusions: Our study demonstrated that MTA2 plays crucial roles in tumor progression and tumor immunity, and it could be used as a prognostic marker for various malignancies. MK-886 might be a powerful drug for HCC.
CCR4 Blockade Diminishes Intratumoral Macrophage Recruitment and Augments Survival of Syngeneic Pancreatic Cancer-Bearing Mice
Authors: Khabipov Aydar , Trung Dung Nguyen , van der Linde Julia , Miebach Lea , Lenz Maik , Erne Felix , von Bernstorff Wolfram , Schulze Tobias , Kersting Stephan , Bekeschus Sander , Partecke Lars Ivo
Published: May 2023

Pancreatic cancer is known for its tumor microenvironment (TME), which is rich in stromal and immune cells supporting cancer growth and therapy resistance. In particular, tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are known for their angiogenesis- and metastasis-promoting properties, which lead to the failure of conventional therapies for pancreatic cancer. Hence, treatment options targeting TAMs are needed. The C-C chemokine receptor type 4 (CCR4) is critical for immune cell recruitment into the TME, and in this paper we explore the effects of its genetic or immunotherapeutic blockade in pancreatic-cancer-bearing mice. Murine PDA6606 pancreatic cancer cells and murine peritoneal macrophages were used for in vitro migration assays. In vivo, a syngeneic, orthotropic pancreatic cancer model was established. Tumor growth and survival were monitored under prophylactic and therapeutic application of a CCR4 antagonist (AF-399/420/18025) in wildtype (CCR4wt) and CCR4-knockout (CCR4−/−) mice. Immune infiltration was monitored in tumor tissue sections and via flow cytometry of lysed tumors. PDA6606 cells induced less migration in CCR4−/− than in CCR4wt macrophages in vitro. Pancreatic TAM infiltration was higher, and survival was reduced in CCR4wt mice compared to CCR4−/− mice. Antagonizing CCR4 in wildtype mice revealed similar results as in CCR4−/− mice without antagonization. Prophylactic CCR4 antagonist application in wildtype mice was more efficient than therapeutic antagonization. CCR4 seems to be critically involved in TAM generation and tumor progression in pancreatic cancer. CCR4 blockade may help prolong the relapse-free period after curative surgery in pancreatic cancer and improve prognosis.
Inhibition of LPS-Induced Inflammatory Response of Oral Mesenchymal Stem Cells in the Presence of Galectin-3
Authors: Paganelli Alessia , Diomede Francesca , Marconi Guya Diletta , Pizzicannella Jacopo , Rajan Thangavelu Soundara , Trubiani Oriana , Paganelli Roberto
Published: May 2023

Galectin-3 (GAL-3) is a beta-galactoside binding lectin produced by mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and other cell sources under inflammatory conditions. Several studies have reported that GAL-3 exerts an anti-inflammatory action, regulated by its natural ligand GAL-3 BP. In the present study, we aimed to assess the GAL-3 mediated regulation of the MSC function in an LPS-induced inflammation setting. Human gingival mesenchymal stem cells (hGMSCs) were stimulated in vitro with LPSs; the expression of TLR4, NFκB p65, MyD88 and NALP3 were assessed in the hGMSCs via immunofluorescence imaging using confocal microscopy, Western blot assay, and RT-PCR before and after the addition of GAL-3, both alone and with the addition of its inhibitors. LPSs stimulated the expression of TLR4, NFκB p65, MyD88 and NALP3 in hGMSCs, which was inhibited by GAL-3. The addition of either GAL3-BP or the antibody to GAL-3 were able to revert the GAL-3-mediated effects, restoring the expression of TLR4, NFκB p65, MyD88 and NALP3. GAL-3 induces the downregulation of the LPS-induced inflammatory program in MSCs.
Metabolomic Investigation of Blood and Urinary Amino Acids and Derivatives in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Early Diabetic Kidney Disease
Authors: Mogos Maria , Socaciu Carmen , Socaciu Andreea Iulia , Vlad Adrian , Gadalean Florica , Bob Flaviu , Milas Oana , Cretu Octavian Marius , Suteanu-Simulescu Anca , Glavan Mihaela , Ienciu Silvia , Balint Lavinia , Jianu Dragos Catalin , Petrica Ligia
Published: May 2023

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is the leading cause of end-stage renal disease; however, few biomarkers of its early identification are available. The aim of the study was to assess new biomarkers in the early stages of DKD in type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) patients. This cross-sectional pilot study performed an integrated metabolomic profiling of blood and urine in 90 patients with type 2 DM, classified into three subgroups according to albuminuria stage from P1 to P3 (30 normo-, 30 micro-, and 30 macroalbuminuric) and 20 healthy controls using high-performance liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF-ESI* MS). From a large cohort of separated and identified molecules, 33 and 39 amino acids and derivatives from serum and urine, respectively, were selected for statistical analysis using Metaboanalyst 5.0. online software. The multivariate and univariate algorithms confirmed the relevance of some amino acids and derivatives as biomarkers that are responsible for the discrimination between healthy controls and DKD patients. Serum molecules such as tiglylglycine, methoxytryptophan, serotonin sulfate, 5-hydroxy lysine, taurine, kynurenic acid, and tyrosine were found to be more significant in the discrimination between group C and subgroups P1–P2–P3. In urine, o-phosphothreonine, aspartic acid, 5-hydroxy lysine, uric acid, methoxytryptophan, were among the most relevant metabolites in the discrimination between group C and DKD group, as well between subgroups P1–P2–P3. The identification of these potential biomarkers may indicate their involvement in the early DKD and 2DM progression, reflecting kidney injury at specific sites along the nephron, even in the early stages of DKD.
Feature Reviews of the Molecular Mechanisms of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Liao Li-Jen , Hsu Wan-Lun , Chen Chi-Ju , Chiu Yen-Ling
Published: May 2023

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is rare in most parts of the world but endemic in southern Asia. Here, we describe the molecular abnormalities in NPC and point out potential molecular mechanisms for future therapy. This article provides a brief up-to-date review focusing on the molecular pathways of NPC, which may improve our knowledge of this disease, and we also highlight some issues for further research. In brief, some heritable genes are related to NPC; therefore, people with a family history of NPC have an increased risk of this disease. Carcinogenic substances and Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) exposure both contribute to tumorigenesis through the accumulation of multiple genomic changes. In recent years, salted fish intake has decreased the impact on NPC, which implies that changing exposure to carcinogens can modify the risk of NPC. Eradication of cancer-associated viruses potentially eradicates cancer, and EBV vaccines might also prevent this disease in the future. Screening patients by using an EBV antibody is feasible in the high-risk group; plasma EBV DNA measurement could also be conducted for screening, prognosis, and monitoring of this disease. Understanding the molecular mechanisms of NPC can further provide novel information for health promotion, disease screening, and precision cancer treatment.
Predicting Wrist Joint Angles from the Kinematics of the Arm: Application to the Control of Upper Limb Prostheses
Authors: Pérez-González Antonio , Roda-Casanova Victor , Sabater-Gazulla Javier
Published: May 2023

Automation of wrist rotations in upper limb prostheses allows simplification of the human–machine interface, reducing the user’s mental load and avoiding compensatory movements. This study explored the possibility of predicting wrist rotations in pick-and-place tasks based on kinematic information from the other arm joints. To do this, the position and orientation of the hand, forearm, arm, and back were recorded from five subjects during transport of a cylindrical and a spherical object between four different locations on a vertical shelf. The rotation angles in the arm joints were obtained from the records and used to train feed-forward neural networks (FFNNs) and time-delay neural networks (TDNNs) in order to predict wrist rotations (flexion/extension, abduction/adduction, and pronation/supination) based on the angles at the elbow and shoulder. Correlation coefficients between actual and predicted angles of 0.88 for the FFNN and 0.94 for the TDNN were obtained. These correlations improved when object information was added to the network or when it was trained separately for each object (0.94 for the FFNN, 0.96 for the TDNN). Similarly, it improved when the network was trained specifically for each subject. These results suggest that it would be feasible to reduce compensatory movements in prosthetic hands for specific tasks by using motorized wrists and automating their rotation based on kinematic information obtained with sensors appropriately positioned in the prosthesis and the subject’s body.
Non-Destructive Screening of Sodium Metabisulfite Residue on Shrimp by SERS with Copy Paper Loaded with AgNP
Authors: Yuan Chao , Zhao Yanan , Xi Xingjun , Chen Yisheng
Published: May 2023

In order to prompt the appearance of the shrimp color, sodium metabisulfite is frequently added in shrimp processing, which is, however, prohibited in China and many other countries. This study aimed to establish a surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) method for screening sodium metabisulfite residues on shrimp surfaces, in a non-destructive manner. The analysis was carried out using a portable Raman spectrometer jointly with copy paper loaded with silver nanoparticles as the substrate material. The SERS response of sodium metabisulfite gives two fingerprint peaks at 620 (strong) and 927 (medium) cm−1, respectively. This enabled unambiguous confirmation of the targeted chemical. The sensitivity of the SERS detection method was determined to be 0.1 mg/mL, which was equal to residual sodium metabisulfite on the shrimp surface at 0.31 mg/kg. The quantitative relationship between the 620 cm−1 peak intensities and the concentrations of sodium metabisulfite was established. The linear fitting equation was y = 2375x + 8714 with R2 = 0.985. Reaching an ideal balance in simplicity, sensitivity, and selectivity, this study demonstrates that the proposed method is ideally suitable for in-site and non-destructive screening of sodium metabisulfite residues in seafood.
In Vitro Biofouling Performance of Boron-Doped Diamond Microelectrodes for Serotonin Detection Using Fast-Scan Cyclic Voltammetry
Authors: Gupta Bhavna , Perillo Mason L. , Siegenthaler James R. , Christensen Isabelle E. , Welch Matthew P. , Rechenberg Robert , Banna G M Hasan Ul , Galstyan Davit , Becker Michael F. , Li Wen , Purcell Erin K.
Published: May 2023

Neurotransmitter release is important to study in order to better understand neurological diseases and treatment approaches. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter known to play key roles in the etiology of neuropsychiatric disorders. Fast-scan cyclic voltammetry (FSCV) has enabled the detection of neurochemicals, including serotonin, on a sub-second timescale via the well-established carbon fiber microelectrode (CFME). However, poor chronic stability and biofouling, i.e., the adsorption of interferent proteins to the electrode surface upon implantation, pose challenges in the natural physiological environment. We have recently developed a uniquely designed, freestanding, all-diamond boron-doped diamond microelectrode (BDDME) for electrochemical measurements. Key potential advantages of the device include customizable electrode site layouts, a wider working potential window, improved stability, and resistance to biofouling. Here, we present a first report on the electrochemical behavior of the BDDME in comparison with CFME by investigating in vitro serotonin (5-HT) responses with varying FSCV waveform parameters and biofouling conditions. While the CFME delivered lower limits of detection, we also found that BDDMEs showed more sustained 5-HT responses to increasing or changing FSCV waveform-switching potential and frequency, as well as to higher analyte concentrations. Biofouling-induced current reductions were significantly less pronounced at the BDDME when using a “Jackson” waveform compared to CFMEs. These findings are important steps towards the development and optimization of the BDDME as a chronically implanted biosensor for in vivo neurotransmitter detection.
Investigating the Robustness of a Rodent “Double Hit” (Post-Weaning Social Isolation and NMDA Receptor Antagonist) Model as an Animal Model for Schizophrenia: A Systematic Review
Authors: Shangase Khanyiso Bright , Luvuno Mluleki , Mabandla Musa V.
Published: May 2023

Schizophrenia is a debilitating psychiatric disorder comprising positive, negative, and cognitive impairments. Most of the animal models developed to understand the neurobiology and mechanism of schizophrenia do not produce all the symptoms of the disease. Therefore, researchers need to develop new animal models with greater translational reliability, and the ability to produce most if not all symptoms of schizophrenia. This review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the rodent “double hit” (post-weaning social isolation and N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist) model to produce symptoms of schizophrenia. This systematic review was developed according to the 2020 PRISMA guidelines and checklist. The MEDLINE (PubMed) and Ebscohost databases were used to search for studies. The systematic review is based on quantitative animal studies. Studies in languages other than English that could be translated sufficiently using Google translate were also included. Data extraction was performed individually by two independent reviewers and discrepancies between them were resolved by a third reviewer. SYRCLE’s risk-of-bias tool was used to test the quality and biases of included studies. Our primary search yielded a total of 47 articles, through different study selection processes. Seventeen articles met the inclusion criteria for this systematic review. Ten of the seventeen studies found that the “double hit” model was more effective in developing various symptoms of schizophrenia. Most studies showed that the “double hit” model is robust and capable of inducing cognitive impairments and positive symptoms of schizophrenia.
Excellent Interrater Reliability for Manual Segmentation of the Medial Perirhinal Cortex
Authors: Henzen Nicolas A. , Reinhardt Julia , Blatow Maria , Kressig Reto W. , Krumm Sabine
Published: May 2023

Objective: Evaluation of interrater reliability for manual segmentation of brain structures that are affected first by neurofibrillary tau pathology in Alzheimer’s disease. Method: Medial perirhinal cortex, lateral perirhinal cortex, and entorhinal cortex were manually segmented by two raters on structural magnetic resonance images of 44 adults (20 men; mean age = 69.2 ± 10.4 years). Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) of cortical thickness and volumes were calculated. Results: Very high ICC values of manual segmentation for the cortical thickness of all regions (0.953–0.986) and consistently lower ICC values for volume estimates of the medial and lateral perirhinal cortex (0.705–0.874). Conclusions: The applied manual segmentation protocol allows different raters to achieve remarkably similar cortical thickness estimates for regions of the parahippocampal gyrus. In addition, the results suggest a preference for cortical thickness over volume as a reliable measure of atrophy, especially for regions affected by collateral sulcus variability (i.e., medial and lateral perirhinal cortex). The results provide a basis for future automated segmentation and collection of normative data.
High ECM2 Expression Predicts Poor Clinical Outcome and Promotes the Proliferation, Migration, and Invasiveness of Glioma
Authors: Li Junsheng , Wang Siyu , He Qiheng , Lin Fa , Tao Chuming , Ding Yaowei , Wang Jia , Zhao Jizong , Wang Wen
Published: May 2023

Objective: Glioma is the most prevalent and fatal intracranial malignant tumor. Extracellular matrix protein 2 (ECM2) has rarely been studied in gliomas. Therefore, we explored the role of ECM2 in lower-grade gliomas (LGGs). Methods: The RNA-seq and clinicopathology data were obtained from the TCGA database. The immunohistochemical (IHC) staining was used to verify the expression of ECM2. Functional enrichment analyses, immune-related analyses, drug sensitivity, and mutation profile analyses were further conducted. Cox regression and Kaplan–Meier curves were utilized for survival analyses, while four external datasets were used to validate the prognostic role of ECM2. Furthermore, qRT-PCR, CCK-8, wound healing, and transwell assays were performed to confirm the function of ECM2 in gliomas. Results: The study found a significant upregulation of ECM2 expression with increasing glioma grades and a significant association between ECM2 expression and tumor immune infiltration. Cox regression verified the prognostic role of ECM2 in LGG patients (HR = 1.656, 95%CI = 1.055–2.600, p = 0.028). High ECM2 expression was significantly associated with poor outcome (p < 0.001). Four external datasets validated its prognostic value. After the knockdown of ECM2, the functional experiments showed a significant decrease in proliferation, migration, and invasion in glioma cell lines. Conclusion: The study suggested the potential of ECM2 as a novel immune-associated prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for glioma patients.
Marital Conflict, Family Socioeconomic Status, and Depressive Symptoms in Migrant Children: A Moderating Mediational Model
Authors: Ying Liuhua , Wang Yanli , Yu Shasha
Published: May 2023

The present study examines the roles of parent–child communication and peer attachment in the relationships between marital conflict, family socioeconomic status (SES), and depressive symptoms in migrant children. The present study was a cross-sectional design. A total of 437 children were selected from 2 public schools of migrant children, and they were assessed on measures of marital conflict, family SES, parent–child communication, peer attachment, and depressive symptoms. Results showed that peer attachment moderates the relationships between marital conflict, parent–child communication, and depressive symptoms. That is, for migrant children with high peer attachment, marital conflict influences depressive symptoms directly, but also indirectly through parent–child communication. For migrant children with low peer attachment, marital conflict only exerts a direct influence on depressive symptoms. In addition, parent–child communication mediates the relationship between family SES and depressive symptoms, although the mediating effects were not significant for groups with a high or a low level of peer attachment. Thus, parent–child communication serves as one critical pathway, linking marital conflict, or family SES, with depressive symptoms. Furthermore, peer attachment acts as a buffer against the negative effects of marital conflict on depressive symptoms.
The Impact of the Chinese Thinking Style of Relations on Mental Health: The Mediating Role of Coping Styles
Authors: Meng Wanhe , Feng Minxuan , Yu Huihui , Hou Yubo
Published: May 2023

Chinese people tend to view and analyze problems according to relations and holism, which can cause them to adopt positive coping strategies when facing difficulties, thus improving their mental health. This study verifies the relationship among relations as a dimension of the Chinese thinking style, coping strategies, and mental health through three research studies. Study 1 preliminarily examines a significant, positive correlation between Chinese relational thinking and mental health through questionnaire surveys. Study 2 primes Chinese relational thinking and explores its relationship with coping strategies. The results show that relational thinking could enhance individuals’ active coping, seeking of emotional support and venting, problem avoidance, and attentional diversion coping strategies while reducing denial and disengagement coping styles. Study 3 further demonstrates through questionnaires across time points that Chinese relational thinking could improve individuals’ mental health by enhancing their active coping and minimizing denial and disengagement. The results of the three studies are of great significance in terms of improving mental health from the perspective of Chinese relational thinking and coping strategies.
Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior in Adults from Penafiel, Portugal: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Batista Amanda , Forte Pedro , Ribeiro Joana , Silva-Santos Sandra , Neto Elmiro Silva , Rodrigues Filipe , Teixeira José Eduardo , Ferraz Ricardo , Branquinho Luís
Published: May 2023

The aim of this study was to compare the physical activity (PA) and sedentary behavior (SB) levels of young and middle-aged adults living in and around the municipality of Penafiel and to determine whether they meet PA recommendations. The researchers used the “International Physical Activity Questionnaire” (IPAQ) to measure moderate to vigorous PA and time spent on sedentary behavior (high vs. low). A prospective observational cross-sectional sample of 1105 adults aged 18–63 years, living in the municipality of Penafiel and its surroundings (45% women, 55% men), was used. The results indicated that more than half of the population was inactive (53.8%) and sedentary (54.0%). Men were more likely to be sedentary (59.2%) and inactive (55.6%) than women (inactive: 51.7%, high SB: 47.7%). Regarding daily PA and SB levels, women had higher levels of walks (3.8 ± 2.3; p = 0.034) and vigorous PA (2.2 ± 1.8 min; p = 0.005) per days/week, as well as vigorous PA per minutes/week (75.4 ± 82.1 min; p = 0.034). The time spent on vigorous PA per day was also higher in women (26.2 ± 22.8 min; p = 0.030). However, men had higher values in walking minutes per day (26.3 ± 17.1 min; p = 0.030), SB for weekdays (429.2 ± 141.2 min; p = 0.001), SB for weekends (324.7 ± 163.7 min; p = 0.033) and time spent on SB per minutes/week (2795.6 ± 882.0 min; p = 0.001). The results also showed that the older the adults, the lower the frequency and total time of vigorous PA per week. Young adults (18–28 years) had higher levels of vigorous PA (p = 0.005) than the other age groups (29–39; 40–50 and 51–63 years). Finally, the study found no significant correlation between individual level factors, such as number of children, marital status and monthly income, and PA or SB. Conversely, a significant and negative correlation between SB and levels of PA was found, indicating that the higher the level of PA practice, the lower the SB level. The authors suggest that promoting new PA habits and healthy lifestyles is an important future challenge for sustainability and improving the quality of life in public health.
The Big Five Personality Domains and Their Facets: Empirical Relations to Problematic Use of Video Games, Social Media and Alcohol
Authors: Wartberg Lutz , Potzel Katrin , Spindler Carolin , Kammerl Rudolf
Published: May 2023

Relatively common behavioral patterns in adolescence are problematic use of video games (PG), social media (PSMU) or alcohol (PAU). According to theoretical models, personality traits are relevant for Internet-related problematic behaviors. In the present study, associations of the Big Five personality domains and their 15 facets with PG, PSMU and PAU were compared for the first time. Therefore, 492 adolescents (mean age: 16.83 years) were examined with the established Big Five Inventory-2 as well as other standardized questionnaires on PG, PSMU and PAU. For statistical evaluation, correlation analyses were used as bivariate procedures and multiple regression analyses as multivariable procedures. At the personality domain level, consistently in bivariate and multivariate analyses, statistically significant associations between higher Negative Emotionality (Neuroticism) and PG, PSMU and PAU as well as between lower Open-Mindedness and PG and PAU were observed. At the level of facets, higher Anxiety (facet of Negative Emotionality) was related to PG and PSMU as well as lower Aesthetic Sensitivity (facet of Open-Mindedness) and lower Productiveness (facet of Conscientiousness) to PG. Considering the overlap of 95% confidence intervals, very comparable patterns of associations between PG, PSMU and PAU and the Big Five and their facets were observed in adolescence (indicating similarities in etiology).
Relevance of Catholic Parish Churches in Public Space in Barcelona: Historical Analysis and Future Perspectives
Authors: Arboix-Alió Alba , Pons-Poblet Josep Maria , Arboix Adrià , Arboix-Alió Jordi
Published: May 2023

Knowledge of the link between church and public space remains limited. However, there seems to exist a relationship between the church and the city, dating back to the first foundational temples. This relationship is still present in the churches of the most recently created neighborhoods, including those that are now gone and gave way to new squares, as well as those that were repurposed to house new activities. In this study, the relationship between public space and 132 parish churches within the municipal limits of Barcelona (Catalonia, Spain) was analyzed, with the aim to highlighting the most representative examples to understand the role of religious buildings in the urban landscape of the contemporary city. Morphological analyses and comparative views were the methodological research tools used for drawing new maps highlighting how they configure urban axes and homogeneous patterns. Finally, we included a relevant case study of urban regeneration, Mare de Déu dels Àngels church, as an example to demonstrate that a church without a square can have one. In conclusion, churches influenced both the public space adjacent to the parish temples and the urban growth and expansion of the city of Barcelona. Moreover, urban regeneration and new uses of some underutilized churches are a non-negligible future perspective. Churches are relevant for understanding the past of the city of Barcelona, but they are also important for the present and future of the city’s public space.
Soft-Computing Techniques for Predicting Seismic Bearing Capacity of Strip Footings in Slopes
Authors: Kumar Divesh Ranjan , Samui Pijush , Wipulanusat Warit , Keawsawasvong Suraparb , Sangjinda Kongtawan , Jitchaijaroen Wittaya
Published: May 2023

In this study, various machine learning algorithms, including the minimax probability machine regression (MPMR), functional network (FN), convolutional neural network (CNN), recurrent neural network (RNN), and group method of data handling (GMDH) models, are proposed for the estimation of the seismic bearing capacity factor (Nc) of strip footings on sloping ground under seismic events. To train and test the proposed machine learning model, a total of 1296 samples were numerically obtained by performing a lower-bound (LB) and upper-bound (UB) finite element limit analysis (FELA) to evaluate the seismic bearing capacity factor (Nc) of strip footings. Sensitivity analysis was performed on all dimensionless input parameters (i.e., slope inclination (β); normalized depth (D/B); normalized distance (L/B); normalized slope height (H/B); the strength ratio (cu/γB); and the horizontal seismic acceleration (kh)) to determine the influence on the dimensionless output parameters (i.e., the seismic bearing capacity factor (Nc)). To assess the performance of the proposed models, various performance parameters—namely the coefficient of determination (R2), variance account factor (VAF), performance index (PI), Willmott’s index of agreement (WI), the mean absolute error (MAE), the weighted mean absolute percentage error (WMAPE), the mean bias error (MBE), and the root-mean-square error (RMSE)—were calculated. The predictive performance of all proposed models for a bearing capacity factor (Nc) prediction was compared by using the testing dataset, and it was found that the MPMR model achieved the highest R2 values of 1.000 and 0.957 and the lowest RMSE values of 0.000 and 0.038 in both the training and testing phases, respectively. The parametric analyses, rank analyses, REC curves, and the AIC showed that the proposed models were quite effective and reliable for the estimation of the bearing capacity factor (Nc).
Experimental Study on Flexural Behavior of RC–UHPC Slabs with EPS Lightweight Concrete Core
Authors: Cao Tuan-Anh , Nguyen Manh-Tuan , Pham Thai-Hoan , Nguyen Dang-Nguyen
Published: May 2023

This paper presents an experimental investigation that focuses on the flexural behavior of an innovative reinforced concrete–ultra-high performance concrete slab with an expanded polystyrene lightweight concrete core. This type of slab is proposed to serve the semi-precast solution, in which the bottom layer is ultra-high performance concrete working as a formwork during the construction of semi-precast slab, the expanded polystyrene lightweight concrete layer is used for the reduction of structure self-weight, and the top layer is normal concrete designed to withstand compressive stress when the slab is loaded. Two similar large-scale specimens with dimensions of 6200 mm × 1000 mm × 210 mm were fabricated and tested under four-point bending conditions to investigate the flexural behavior of composite slab. Test results indicated that three different layers of materials can work effectively together without separation. The bottom ultra-high performance concrete layer leads to the high ductility of the slab and has a good effect in limiting the widening of the crack width by forming other cracks. According to design code ACI 544.4R, a modified distribution stress diagram on the composite section was proposed and proven to be suitable for the prediction of flexural strength of the composite section with an error of 3.4% compared to the experimental result. The effect of the ultra-high performance concrete layer on the flexural strength of the composite slab was clearly demonstrated, and for the case in this study, the ultra-high performance concrete layer improves the flexural strength of the slab by about 11.5%.