bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identifying the Phenotypes of Diffuse Axonal Injury Following Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Krieg Justin L. , Leonard Anna V. , Turner Renée J. , Corrigan Frances
Published: November 2023

Diffuse axonal injury (DAI) is a significant feature of traumatic brain injury (TBI) across all injury severities and is driven by the primary mechanical insult and secondary biochemical injury phases. Axons comprise an outer cell membrane, the axolemma which is anchored to the cytoskeletal network with spectrin tetramers and actin rings. Neurofilaments act as space-filling structural polymers that surround the central core of microtubules, which facilitate axonal transport. TBI has differential effects on these cytoskeletal components, with axons in the same white matter tract showing a range of different cytoskeletal and axolemma alterations with different patterns of temporal evolution. These require different antibodies for detection in post-mortem tissue. Here, a comprehensive discussion of the evolution of axonal injury within different cytoskeletal elements is provided, alongside the most appropriate methods of detection and their temporal profiles. Accumulation of amyloid precursor protein (APP) as a result of disruption of axonal transport due to microtubule failure remains the most sensitive marker of axonal injury, both acutely and chronically. However, a subset of injured axons demonstrate different pathology, which cannot be detected via APP immunoreactivity, including degradation of spectrin and alterations in neurofilaments. Furthermore, recent work has highlighted the node of Ranvier and the axon initial segment as particularly vulnerable sites to axonal injury, with loss of sodium channels persisting beyond the acute phase post-injury in axons without APP pathology. Given the heterogenous response of axons to TBI, further characterization is required in the chronic phase to understand how axonal injury evolves temporally, which may help inform pharmacological interventions.
The Comparison of Early Hemodynamic Response to Single-Pulse Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation following Inhibitory or Excitatory Theta Burst Stimulation on Motor Cortex
Authors: Gorban Corina , Zhang Zhongxing , Mensen Armand , Khatami Ramin
Published: November 2023

We present a new study design aiming to enhance the understanding of the mechanism by which continuous theta burst stimulation (cTBS) or intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) paradigms elicit cortical modulation. Using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), we compared the cortical hemodynamics of the previously inhibited (after cTBS) or excited (after iTBS) left primary motor cortex (M1) as elicited by single-pulse TMS (spTMS) in a cross-over design. Mean relative changes in hemodynamics within 6 s of the stimulus were compared using a two-sample t-test (p < 0.05) and linear mixed model between real and sham stimuli and between stimuli after cTBS and iTBS. Only spTMS after cTBS resulted in a significant increase (p = 0.04) in blood volume (BV) compared to baseline. There were no significant changes in other hemodynamic parameters (oxygenated/deoxygenated hemoglobin). spTMS after cTBS induced a larger increase in BV than spTMS after iTBS (p = 0.021) and sham stimulus after cTBS (p = 0.009). BV showed no significant difference between real and sham stimuli after iTBS (p = 0.37). The greater hemodynamic changes suggest increased vasomotor reactivity after cTBS compared to iTBS. In addition, cTBS could decrease lateral inhibition, allowing activation of surrounding areas after cTBS.
Access to Primary Healthcare and Discussion of Memory Loss with a Healthcare Provider in Adults with Subjective Cognitive Decline: Does Race/Ethnicity Matter?
Authors: Kim Seoyoun , Yoon Hyunwoo , Jang Yuri
Published: November 2023

Because subjective cognitive decline (SCD) manifests before the clinical and irreversible onset of dementia, efforts to address SCD are imperative for the early identification and prevention of dementia. For people who actually experience SCD, having a usual source of care may be an important catalyst for addressing memory issues. This study investigates the relationship between having a usual source of care and the discussion of SCD with healthcare providers, while taking into account racial and ethnic differences. The pooled 2019–2020 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) from 47 states in the U.S. was used. The sample included 7900 individuals aged 50 and older who reported significant cognitive decline. Using logistic regression with state-level clustering, we found that those with a usual source of healthcare were almost twice as more likely to discuss memory loss with a healthcare provider. In order to test for the multiplicative effects, we included an interaction term between each race category and having a primary care provider (PCP). There was a significant interaction effect between Hispanic ethnicity and having a PCP (OR = 0.25, p < 0.05). While non-Hispanic respondents who had a PCP had a higher probability of discussing memory issues with a healthcare provider (42% vs. 25%), Hispanic respondents with a PCP were less likely to discuss their memory loss with a healthcare provider (36% vs. 49%). The study adds to the growing literature on the vital role of the primary care service in provision of service to those with cognitive decline, while revealing ethnic disparity in memory-loss-related communication with healthcare providers in a primary care setting.
A Constitutive Model for Circular and Square Cross-Section Concrete Confined with Aramid FRP Laminates
Authors: Li Yeou-Fong , Chen Bo-Yu , Syu Jin-Yuan , Ramanathan Gobinathan Kadagathur , Lee Wei-Hao , Huang Chih-Hong , Lok Man-Hoi
Published: November 2023

Fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) has been used for seismic retrofitting and structural reinforcement over recent decades. Numerous researchers have created stress–strain models based on experimental data to predict the mechanical properties of FRP-confined concrete. In this study, circular and square cross-section specimens with different design concrete strength were prepared, and the compressive strength of the specimens confined with different layers of aramid FRP (AFRP) were measured in compressive tests. A constitutive model was proposed to simulate the uniaxial compressive stress–strain relationship of the AFRP-confined concrete, which was derived from the Mohr–Coulomb failure envelope theory, and the corresponding axial strain was determined from the regression analysis. The internal friction angle of the proposed constitutive model was determined for the cylindrical concrete specimens confined with one and two layers of AFRP. The compressive strength of one and two layers of AFRP-confined concrete specimens were used to obtain the parameters of the constitutive model; the absolute average error between experimental and predicted compressive strength was 7.01%. Then, the constitutive model was used to predict the strength of a three-layer AFRP-confined concrete specimen, and the absolute average error was 4.95%. The cross-sectional shape coefficient of the square concrete specimen was obtained analytically. Substituting the cross-sectional shape coefficient into the proposed constitutive model, the average absolute error of the square cross-section concrete specimen was about 3.84%. The results indicated that the proposed constitutive model can predict the compressive strength of circular and square cross-section concrete specimens confined with AFRP.
Underground Parking Layout Generation Based on the WaveFunctionCollapse Algorithm
Authors: Lan Di , Chen Kezhen , Xu Zhen
Published: November 2023

During the design process, architectural layout configuration is subject to complex constraints such as site conditions and design requirements, resulting in limited design efficiency. This research aims to provide architects with an effective design tool that can generate reference-worthy underground parking layout solutions based on the given site information. In this research, we extract spatial modules from underground parking layouts, and transform the design constraints into adjacency rules based on the analysis of the configuration process for underground parking layout, then develop a generation and optimization model of the underground parking layout based on the WaveFunctionCollapse algorithm (WFC) and Multi-objective Optimization (MOO), and verify the effectiveness of the model through experiments. The results show that with given plan contour and entrance/exit locations as inputs, the model can efficiently generate architectural layout solutions that meet the design objectives.
Histopathological Markers for Target Therapies in Primary Cutaneous Lymphomas
Authors: Sonego Benedetta , Ibatici Adalberto , Rivoli Giulia , Angelucci Emanuele , Sola Simona , Massone Cesare
Published: November 2023

In recent years, targeted (biological) therapies have become available also for primary cutaneous T-cell lymphomas (PCTCLs) including anti-CD30 (brentuximab vedotin) in mycosis fungoides, primary cutaneous anaplastic large T-cell lymphoma, lymphomatoid papulosis; anti-CCR4 (mogamulizumab) in Sezary syndrome; anti-CD123 (tagraxofusp) in blastic plasmocytoid cell neoplasm. Moreover, anti-PD1 (nivolumab), anti-PDL1 (pembrolizumab, atezolizumab), anti-CD52 (alemtuzumab), anti-KIR3DL2-CD158k (lacutamab), and anti-CD70 (cusatuzumab) have been tested or are under investigations in phase II trials. The expression of these epitopes on neoplastic cells in skin biopsies or blood samples plays a central role in the management of PCTCL patients. This narrative review aims to provide readers with an update on the latest advances in the newest therapeutic options for PCTCLs.
LGR5 Expression Predicting Poor Prognosis Is Negatively Correlated with WNT5A in Colon Cancer
Authors: Mehdawi Lubna M. , Ghatak Souvik , Chakraborty Payel , Sjölander Anita , Andersson Tommy
Published: November 2023

WNT/β-catenin signaling is essential for colon cancer development and progression. WNT5A (ligand of non-canonical WNT signaling) and its mimicking peptide Foxy5 impair β-catenin signaling in colon cancer cells via unknown mechanisms. Therefore, we investigated whether and how WNT5A signaling affects two promoters of β-catenin signaling: the LGR5 receptor and its ligand RSPO3, as well as β-catenin activity and its target gene VEGFA. Protein and gene expression in colon cancer cohorts were analyzed by immunohistochemistry and qRT-PCR, respectively. Three colon cancer cell lines were used for in vitro and one cell line for in vivo experiments and results were analyzed by Western blotting, RT-PCR, clonogenic and sphere formation assays, immunofluorescence, and immunohistochemistry. Expression of WNT5A (a tumor suppressor) negatively correlated with that of LGR5/RSPO3 (tumor promoters) in colon cancer cohorts. Experimentally, WNT5A signaling suppressed β-catenin activity, LGR5, RSPO3, and VEGFA expression, and colony and spheroid formations. Since β-catenin signaling promotes colon cancer stemness, we explored how WNT5A expression is related to that of the cancer stem cell marker DCLK1. DCLK1 expression was negatively correlated with WNT5A expression in colon cancer cohorts and was experimentally reduced by WNT5A signaling. Thus, WNT5A and Foxy5 decrease LGR5/RSPO3 expression and β-catenin activity. This inhibits stemness and VEGFA expression, suggesting novel treatment strategies for the drug candidate Foxy5 in the handling of colon cancer patients.
De-Suppression of Mesenchymal Cell Identities and Variable Phenotypic Outcomes Associated with Knockout of Bbs1
Authors: Freke Grace Mercedes , Martins Tiago , Davies Rosalind Jane , Beyer Tina , Seda Marian , Peskett Emma , Haq Naila , Prasai Avishek , Otto Georg , Jeyabalan Srikaran Jeshmi , Hernandez Victor , Diwan Gaurav D. , Russell Robert B. , Ueffing Marius , Huranova Martina , Boldt Karsten , Beales Philip L. , Jenkins Dagan
Published: November 2023

Bardet–Biedl syndrome (BBS) is an archetypal ciliopathy caused by dysfunction of primary cilia. BBS affects multiple tissues, including the kidney, eye and hypothalamic satiety response. Understanding pan-tissue mechanisms of pathogenesis versus those which are tissue-specific, as well as gauging their associated inter-individual variation owing to genetic background and stochastic processes, is of paramount importance in syndromology. The BBSome is a membrane-trafficking and intraflagellar transport (IFT) adaptor protein complex formed by eight BBS proteins, including BBS1, which is the most commonly mutated gene in BBS. To investigate disease pathogenesis, we generated a series of clonal renal collecting duct IMCD3 cell lines carrying defined biallelic nonsense or frameshift mutations in Bbs1, as well as a panel of matching wild-type CRISPR control clones. Using a phenotypic screen and an unbiased multi-omics approach, we note significant clonal variability for all assays, emphasising the importance of analysing panels of genetically defined clones. Our results suggest that BBS1 is required for the suppression of mesenchymal cell identities as the IMCD3 cell passage number increases. This was associated with a failure to express epithelial cell markers and tight junction formation, which was variable amongst clones. Transcriptomic analysis of hypothalamic preparations from BBS mutant mice, as well as BBS patient fibroblasts, suggested that dysregulation of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) genes is a general predisposing feature of BBS across tissues. Collectively, this work suggests that the dynamic stability of the BBSome is essential for the suppression of mesenchymal cell identities as epithelial cells differentiate.
Fluid and Bubble Flow Detach Adherent Cancer Cells to Form Spheroids on a Random Positioning Machine
Authors: Cortés-Sánchez José Luis , Melnik Daniela , Sandt Viviann , Kahlert Stefan , Marchal Shannon , Johnson Ian R. D. , Calvaruso Marco , Liemersdorf Christian , Wuest Simon L. , Grimm Daniela , Krüger Marcus
Published: November 2023

In preparing space and microgravity experiments, the utilization of ground-based facilities is common for initial experiments and feasibility studies. One approach to simulating microgravity conditions on Earth is to employ a random positioning machine (RPM) as a rotary bioreactor. Combined with a suitable low-mass model system, such as cell cultures, these devices simulating microgravity have been shown to produce results similar to those obtained in a space experiment under real microgravity conditions. One of these effects observed under real and simulated microgravity is the formation of spheroids from 2D adherent cancer cell cultures. Since real microgravity cannot be generated in a laboratory on Earth, we aimed to determine which forces lead to the detachment of individual FTC-133 thyroid cancer cells and the formation of tumor spheroids during culture with exposure to random positioning modes. To this end, we subdivided the RPM motion into different static and dynamic orientations of cell culture flasks. We focused on the molecular activation of the mechanosignaling pathways previously associated with spheroid formation in microgravity. Our results suggest that RPM-induced spheroid formation is a two-step process. First, the cells need to be detached, induced by the cell culture flask’s rotation and the subsequent fluid flow, as well as the presence of air bubbles. Once the cells are detached and in suspension, random positioning prevents sedimentation, allowing 3D aggregates to form. In a comparative shear stress experiment using defined fluid flow paradigms, transcriptional responses were triggered comparable to exposure of FTC-133 cells to the RPM. In summary, the RPM serves as a simulator of microgravity by randomizing the impact of Earth’s gravity vector especially for suspension (i.e., detached) cells. Simultaneously, it simulates physiological shear forces on the adherent cell layer. The RPM thus offers a unique combination of environmental conditions for in vitro cancer research.
Simulation and Experimental Investigation of Multi-Step Shot Peening for Surface Crack Repair in Aluminum Alloys
Authors: Zhu Jiahao , Liao Kai , Hu Jun
Published: November 2023

This study explores the impact of shot peening residual compressive stress on repairing surface cracks in the 7075-T651 aluminum alloy. Two models were developed for crack repair via shot peening and fatigue test finite element modeling. A multi-step numerical simulation introduced shot peening-induced residual stress into the fatigue test model, and subsequent simulations analyzed the crack repair mechanism. The research results indicate that increasing pressure and projectile size improve repair effectiveness, but higher pressure causes material damage, and larger projectiles decrease fatigue life. Crack repair effectiveness decreased with higher loading levels, more significantly at higher loads. Experimental and simulation results matched well, validating the simulation model for shot peen repair processes and offering optimization possibilities.
Paper Coatings Based on Polyvinyl Alcohol and Cellulose Nanocrystals Using Various Coating Techniques and Determination of Their Barrier Properties
Authors: Tarnowiecka-Kuca Alicja , Peeters Roos , Bamps Bram , Stobińska Magdalena , Kamola Paulina , Wierzchowski Artur , Bartkowiak Artur , Mizielińska Małgorzata
Published: November 2023

The goal of this work was to improve the barrier properties of selected papers against water, grease and oil or gases (water vapor and oxygen) by covering them with biodegradable commercial coating carriers based on cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH). The aim was also to obtain cellulose recyclable packaging materials with improved barrier characteristics. The properties of paper coatings based on CNCs and PVOH were characterized. Various paper coating techniques (flexographic printing, rotogravure printing and blade printing) were evaluated with respect to the final properties of the surface-modified paper with different starting grammages (40 g/m2, 70 g/m2, 100 g/m2). Functional properties, such as the barrier against oxygen, water vapor, water and grease; mechanical properties; and seal characterization of coated paper were examined. The results of this study demonstrated that the covering of the paper may improve the water, grease and oil barrier and that the best results were obtained for Gerstar 70 g/m2 coated with J12 coatings using the flexographic technique.
Highly Porous Layered Double Hydroxide and Mixed Metal Oxide by Sacrificial Bio-Template, Egg White Foam
Authors: Chandrabose Vidya , Park Ji won , Jung Sang Yong , Wang Kang Kyun , Oh Jae-Min
Published: November 2023

Highly porous layered double hydroxide (LDH) and its calcined mixed metal oxide (MMO) were obtained by utilizing egg white (EW) as a biogenic porous template. The LDH was prepared through coprecipitation under the existence of a beaten EW meringue, and the corresponding MMO was obtained by calcining LDH at 500 °C. According to X-ray diffraction, the crystal structure of LDH and MMO was well-developed with or without EW. In contrast, the crystallinity analyses and microscopic investigations clearly showed differences in the particle orientation in the presence of EW; the protein arrangement in the EW foam induced the ordered orientation of LDH platelets along proteins, resulting in well-developed inter-particle pores. As a result, the distinctive particle arrangement in EW-templated samples compared with non-templated ones showed dramatically enhanced specific surface area and porosity. The nitrogen adsorption–desorption isotherm exhibited that the high specific surface area was attributed to the homogeneous nanopores in EW-templated LDH and MMO, which originated from the sacrificial role of the EW.
Preliminary Parametric Investigations into Macro-Laser Polishing of Laser-Directed Energy Deposition of SS 304L Bulk Structures
Authors: Saini Vijay Kumar , Arackal Narayanan Jinoop , Sinha Niraj , Paul Christ Prakash
Published: November 2023

The higher surface roughness of laser-directed energy deposition (LDED)-built components necessitates advanced and sustainable surface quality enhancement techniques like laser polishing. In the present work, a parametric study involving experimental investigation and numerical analysis is conducted to determine the effect of macro-laser polishing on LDED-built SS 304L structures. A thermophysical model is developed to simulate the effect of laser power and scan speed on the melt pool depth of the LDED-built samples. The simulated melt pool depth is compared with experimental results and is found to be in good agreement. Further, the correlation between the melt pool depth and surface behaviour is studied based on shallow surface melting and shallow over-melting mechanisms. A maximum reduction in surface roughness from 21.3 µm to 9 µm (~57%) is achieved with laser polishing, and process parameters’ effect on the surface roughness is investigated. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) mapping, and X-ray diffraction (XRD) are used to further characterize the laser-polished surface. SEM-EDS analysis shows that the segregation is more evident in laser-polished samples, while the XRD results indicate the absence of phase change during the process. This study paves the way to a greater understanding of the effect of macro-laser polishing on LDED-built SS 304L structures.
Spectroscopy and Trace-Element Characteristics of Emeralds from Kamakanga, Zambia
Authors: Zhang Yi , Yu Xiaoyan
Published: November 2023

Currently, Zambia is the second largest source of emeralds, after Colombia. In this study, emerald samples from the Zambian Kamakanga deposit were examined by UV-Vis-NIR, Miro-FTIR, Diamond ViewTM, and LA-ICP-MS. Representative UV-Vis-NIR spectra showed a distinct Fe3+ absorption peak, and the Fe-related absorption band was much stronger than that of the Cr-related absorption band. The infrared spectra showed that the absorption of type II H2O was much stronger than that of type I H2O. The results of LA-ICP-MS indicated that darker green, green, lighter green, and bluish-green emeralds had a clear separation of Cr/V (Cr/V > 15 for darker green, 10 < Cr/V < 15 for green, and Cr/V < 10 for lighter green and bluish green). In color zoning emerald, the contents of Cr, Sc, V, and Fe gradually increased with the intensity of the green color, while the opposite occurred for Cs. Cr is the main chromogenic element in Kamakanga emeralds. Additionally, Zambian Kamakanga emeralds contain high contents of total alkali metals (avg. 17,592 ppmw), Cs (avg. 1331 ppmw), Fe (avg. 8556 ppmw), Li (avg. 485 ppmw), Li + Cs (avg. 1816 ppmw), and Ga/Fe < 0.0025. Therefore, combined Fe versus Ga, Li versus Cs binary diagrams and K, Rb, and the Li + Cs ternary plot can distinguish Zambian emeralds from other important emerald origins.
Incorporation of Probiotics and Other Functional Ingredients in Dairy Fat-Rich Products: Benefits, Challenges, and Opportunities
Authors: Gaba Kritika , Anand Sanjeev
Published: November 2023

This review focuses on the potential opportunities to incorporate functional ingredients like probiotics in the dairy fat-rich matrix to develop functional foods. Many dietary guidelines and the relevant literature have in general indicated many benefits of consuming milk-fat-rich products for the human body. Milk fat contains essential nutrients, including fat-soluble vitamins; short-, medium-, and long-chain with odd and branched chain fatty acids; essential amino acids; and calcium, which are all known for their bioactive properties. In addition, the incorporation of probiotics, which are known for their bioactive properties, could further enhance the products’ attributes. However, direct probiotic addition is known to encounter viability challenges during manufacturing and storage. There is thus an opportunity to introduce a value-added range of dairy fat-rich products imparting bioactive and functional benefits. The current review is an attempt to consolidate information in this area and explore further avenues for the value addition of dairy fat-rich products.
Identification and Characterisation of Spore-Forming Bacteria in Bovine Raw Milk Collected from Four Dairy Farms in New Zealand
Authors: Gupta Tanushree B. , Brightwell Gale
Published: November 2023

Contamination of milk and dairy products with pathogenic and spoilage bacteria may result in huge economic loss due to recalls of products. This study aimed to identify spore-forming bacteria from raw milk and characterise those for toxin production and their spoilage ability. Bovine raw milk collected from dairy farms in the Manawatu region of the North Island of New Zealand was tested for the presence of both aerobic and anaerobic spore-forming bacteria using standard culture-based techniques, as well as genomic analysis. The spore-forming bacteria were investigated for the presence of toxin genes and their spoilage potential. A low number of aerobic spore-forming bacteria were detected in raw-milk samples collected from the four farms in summer and winter. The 16S rRNA sequence types similar to important food spoilage bacteria like C. beijerinckii, C. sporogenes, B. licheniformis and members of the Paenibacillus genus, as well as potentially toxigenic bacteria such as B. cereus and C. perfringens were isolated. Genes responsible for important toxin production were present in some of the tested spore-forming bacteria. This pilot study highlights the presence of various spoilage and pathogenic spore-forming bacteria in raw milk from these farms. A low number of spore-forming bacteria indicates the implementation of good hygienic farm practices and management to reduce the contamination of raw milk with spore-forming bacteria.
Inflammation and Venous Thromboembolism in Hospitalized Patients with COVID-19
Authors: Liontos Angelos , Biros Dimitrios , Matzaras Rafail , Tsarapatsani Konstantina-Helen , Kolios Nikolaos-Gavriel , Zarachi Athina , Tatsis Konstantinos , Pappa Christiana , Nasiou Maria , Pargana Eleni , Tsiakas Ilias , Lymperatou Diamantina , Filippas-Ntekouan Sempastien , Athanasiou Lazaros , Samanidou Valentini , Konstantopoulou Revekka , Vagias Ioannis , Panteli Aikaterini , Milionis Haralampos , Christaki Eirini
Published: November 2023

Background: A link between inflammation and venous thromboembolism (VTE) in COVID-19 disease has been suggested pathophysiologically and clinically. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between inflammation and disease outcomes in adult hospitalized COVID-19 patients with VTE. Methods: This was a retrospective observational study, including quantitative and qualitative data collected from COVID-19 patients hospitalized at the Infectious Diseases Unit (IDU) of the University Hospital of Ioannina, from 1 March 2020 to 31 May 2022. Venous thromboembolism was defined as a diagnosis of pulmonary embolism (PE) and/or vascular tree-in-bud in the lungs. The burden of disease, assessed by computed tomography of the lungs (CTBoD), was quantified as the percentage (%) of the affected lung parenchyma. The study outcomes were defined as death, intubation, and length of hospital stay (LoS). A chi-squared test and univariate logistic regression analyses were performed in IBM SPSS 28.0. Results: After propensity score matching, the final study cohort included 532 patients. VTE was found in 11.2% of the total population. In patients with VTE, we found that lymphocytopenia and a high neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio were associated with an increased risk of intubation and death, respectively. Similarly, CTBoD > 50% was associated with a higher risk of intubation and death in this group of patients. The triglyceride–glucose (TyG) index was also linked to worse outcomes. Conclusions: Inflammatory indices were associated with VTE. Lymphocytopenia and an increased neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio negatively impacted the disease’s prognosis and outcomes. Whether these indices unfavorably affect outcomes in COVID-19-associated VTE must be further evaluated.
Recent Advances in the Field of Artificial Intelligence for Precision Medicine in Patients with a Diagnosis of Metastatic Cutaneous Melanoma
Authors: Higgins Hayley , Nakhla Abanoub , Lotfalla Andrew , Khalil David , Doshi Parth , Thakkar Vandan , Shirini Dorsa , Bebawy Maria , Ammari Samy , Lopci Egesta , Schwartz Lawrence H. , Postow Michael , Dercle Laurent
Published: November 2023

Standard-of-care medical imaging techniques such as CT, MRI, and PET play a critical role in managing patients diagnosed with metastatic cutaneous melanoma. Advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) techniques, such as radiomics, machine learning, and deep learning, could revolutionize the use of medical imaging by enhancing individualized image-guided precision medicine approaches. In the present article, we will decipher how AI/radiomics could mine information from medical images, such as tumor volume, heterogeneity, and shape, to provide insights into cancer biology that can be leveraged by clinicians to improve patient care both in the clinic and in clinical trials. More specifically, we will detail the potential role of AI in enhancing detection/diagnosis, staging, treatment planning, treatment delivery, response assessment, treatment toxicity assessment, and monitoring of patients diagnosed with metastatic cutaneous melanoma. Finally, we will explore how these proof-of-concept results can be translated from bench to bedside by describing how the implementation of AI techniques can be standardized for routine adoption in clinical settings worldwide to predict outcomes with great accuracy, reproducibility, and generalizability in patients diagnosed with metastatic cutaneous melanoma.
Evaluation of the Degree of the Value Realization of Ecological Products of the Forest Ecological Bank in Shunchang County
Authors: Xu Ding , Wang Yajun , Wu Lianbei , Zhang Weimin
Published: November 2023

The forest ecological bank (FEB) plays a vital role in the transformation of ecological assets into ecological capital. The purpose of this study is to clarify the role of Shunchang County’s FEB in promoting the realization of the value of forest ecological products and the degree of the value realization of FEB ecological products so as to provide data support and policy reference for sustainable forest management and an ecological product value realization model. The ratio of the sum of the material supply value and the forest premium benefit of the forest ecosystem of the state-owned forest land to the total production value of the forest ecosystem of the state-owned forest land in Shunchang County is taken as a quantitative index of the realization degree of the ecological product value of the FEB in Shunchang County. (1) The difference in the production value of the forest ecosystem per unit area between state-owned forest land and non-state-owned forest land is USD 340.17, and the production value of the ecosystem brought about by the scientific cultivation of the FEB has increased by USD 25.92 million. (2) The base price of state-owned forest land in Shunchang County is USD 378.30, the base price of non-state-owned forest land is USD 247.23, and the value-added premium value of forest land is USD 30.19 million. (3) The realization degree of the ecological product value of the FEB in Shunchang County is 85.51%. These results show that the FEB can accelerate the progress of forest ecological products and play an important role in the construction of the ecological civilization proposed by China.
China’s Climate Change Policy Attention and Forestry Carbon Sequestration Growth
Authors: Meng Jixian , Lu Feng , Cheng Baodong
Published: November 2023

Forest carbon sinks play an important role in climate change mitigation and adaptation. The Chinese government has demonstrated its proactive approach to addressing climate change by setting development targets for low-carbon transformation and making solemn commitments to peak carbon emissions before 2030 and to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060. In this article, the Chinese Government’s Work Reports and Five-Year Plans are used to construct an index named China’s Climate Change Policy Attention (CCPA), which reflects the government’s emphasis on climate change and forestry in China. This article aims to examine the impact of CCPA, the adjusted Climate Policy Uncertainty (CPU) index from the U.S., and the Economic Policy Uncertainty (EPU) index from China on the Chinese forest carbon stocks (FCS) comprehensively. On this basis, we are interested in clarifying the channels by which CCPA promotes the growth of forest carbon sequestration in China. Specifically, panel data from 30 provinces in China from 2000 to 2017 are used for empirical analysis, and the following results are obtained: (1) The baseline regression indicates that CCPA significantly promotes the growth of FCS, while CPU or EPU inhibits its growth. (2) The interactive regression shows that the effect of CCPA on the growth of FCS can mitigate the inhibiting impact of CPU or EPU. (3) Mediation analysis documents that CCPA promotes FCS growth by increasing the forest tending area, expanding the existing forest area, increasing renewable energy consumption, and improving green investment. (4) Heterogeneity analysis reveals a clear differentiation in the effect of CCPA on FCS under different situations. Finally, policy implications are proposed based on the results. This article is expected to provide a theoretical basis for the Chinese government to develop relevant policies from the perspective of promoting FCS growth.
Transcriptomic Comparison of Liver Tissue across Different Largemouth Bass (Micropterus salmoides) Strains
Authors: Zhou Fan , Zhang Xuelin , Yao Gaohua , Chen Xiaoming , Qi Ming , Zhou Qin , Zhu Ningyu , Meng Qinghui , Zhang Yu , Ding Xueyan
Published: November 2023

Over the past few years, China has become a hotspot for the domestication of the commercially valuable largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides). Although the food preference of this fish has been studied, little is known about the genes regulating its growth. Population breeding was performed using two indigenous strains (QT1 and QT2), with the results showing that the organ/body ratio, abdominal fat rate and the body weight gain of QT1 and QT2 were higher than for the offspring YL1 and Y3 which are extensively cultured in China. Subsequent RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) allowed for the identification of potential genes and pathways involved in growth performance. Overall, the transcriptome analysis generated 89,056 transcripts and 42,529 Unigenes. A PCA revealed significant differences between QT1 and the other three strains, while the other three strains did not show much difference. A KEGG enrichment analysis of differentially expressed genes showed that steroid biosynthesis was the most enriched pathway among the four strains. These pathways could be related to the growth of largemouth bass. In addition, a co-expression network analysis suggested a strong interaction between liver steroid biosynthesis and the genes for photosynthesis, secondary metabolism and stress response. Taken together, the above results can provide new insights into the liver metabolism of different strains of largemouth bass during culture and provide references for the subsequent domestication and breeding programs of largemouth bass.
The Formative Factors of a Rock Burst Based on Energy Calculations and the Experimental Verification of Butterfly-Shaped Plastic Zones
Authors: Zhang Wenlong , Feng Jicheng , Ren Jianju , Ma Ji , Shi Jianjun , Zhang Junfeng
Published: November 2023

The research on the formation factors of rock burst is one of the main research directions of rock mechanics in recent years, which is helpful to solve the problem of rock burst accidents. So, in this study, the calculation method of energy released during rock burst is first obtained by using different medium models, and then, the formation factors of rock bursts are obtained by comparing the calculation energy with the actual accident energy. The method of energy calculation utilizes the difference between elastoplastic and pure elastic models to innovatively quantify the specific values of energy released before and after the occurrence of the rock burst. It is considered that the stress and plastic zone state before the occurrence of rock burst have an important influence on the occurrence of the accident and are one of the formation factors, while the deviatoric stress field and butterfly-shaped plastic zone create conditions for greater energy release. In addition, the trigger stress constitutes another formation factor. The plastic zone state before rock failure is verified by the experimental test; the location distribution shape of acoustic emission (AE) events during the later stage of compression failure is approximately the same as theoretical result. The results also preliminarily indicated the fractal characteristics of acoustic emission events distribution before sample failure. The study obtained the formative factors of rock burst accident, which provides a new ideas and references for the research on the formation of rock bursts.
Optimal Radio Propagation Modeling and Parametric Tuning Using Optimization Algorithms
Authors: Isabona Joseph , Imoize Agbotiname Lucky , Akinwumi Oluwasayo Akinloye , Omasheye Okiemute Roberts , Oghu Emughedi , Lee Cheng-Chi , Li Chun-Ta
Published: November 2023

Benchmarking different optimization algorithms is tasky, particularly for network-based cellular communication systems. The design and management process of these systems involves many stochastic variables and complex design parameters that demand an unbiased estimation and analysis. Though several optimization algorithms exist for different parametric modeling and tuning, an in-depth evaluation of their functional performance has not been adequately addressed, especially for cellular communication systems. Firstly, in this paper, nine key numerical and global optimization algorithms, comprising Gauss–Newton (GN), gradient descent (GD), Genetic Algorithm (GA), Levenberg–Marguardt (LM), Quasi-Newton (QN), Trust-Region–Dog-Leg (TR), pattern search (PAS), Simulated Annealing (SA), and particle swam (PS), have been benchmarked against measured data. The experimental data were taken from different radio signal propagation terrains around four eNodeB cells. In order to assist the radio frequency (RF) engineer in selecting the most suitable optimization method for the parametric model tuning, three-fold benchmarking criteria comprising the Accuracy Profile Benchmark (APB), Function Evaluation Benchmark (FEB), and Execution Speed Benchmark (ESB) were employed. The APB and FEB were quantitatively compared against the measured data for fair benchmarking. By leveraging the APB performance criteria, the QN achieved the best results with the preferred values of 98.34, 97.31, 97.44, and 96.65% in locations 1–4. The GD attained the worst performance with the lowest APE values of 98.25, 95.45, 96.10, and 95.70 in the tested locations. In terms of objective function values and their evaluation count, the QN algorithm shows the fewest function counts of 44, 44, 56, and 44, and the lowest objective values of 80.85, 37.77, 54.69, and 41.24, thus attaining the best optimization algorithm results across the study locations. The worst performance was attained by the GD with objective values of 86.45, 39.58, 76.66, and 54.27, respectively. Though the objective values achieved with global optimization methods, PAS, GA, PS, and SA, are relatively small compared to the QN, their function evaluation counts are high. The PAS, GA, PS, and SA recorded 1367, 2550, 3450, and 2818 function evaluation counts, which are relatively high. Overall, the QN algorithm achieves the best optimization, and it can serve as a reference for RF engineers in selecting suitable optimization methods for propagation modeling and parametric tuning.
Robust Multiagent Reinforcement Learning for UAV Systems: Countering Byzantine Attacks
Authors: Medhi Jishu K. , Liu Rui , Wang Qianlong , Chen Xuhui
Published: November 2023

Multiple unmanned aerial vehicle (multi-UAV) systems have gained significant attention in applications, such as aerial surveillance and search and rescue missions. With the recent development of state-of-the-art multiagent reinforcement learning (MARL) algorithms, it is possible to train multi-UAV systems in collaborative and competitive environments. However, the inherent vulnerabilities of multiagent systems pose significant privacy and security risks when deploying general and conventional MARL algorithms. The presence of even a single Byzantine adversary within the system can severely degrade the learning performance of UAV agents. This work proposes a Byzantine-resilient MARL algorithm that leverages a combination of geometric median consensus and a robust state update model to mitigate, or even eliminate, the influence of Byzantine attacks. To validate its effectiveness and feasibility, the authors include a multi-UAV threat model, provide a guarantee of robustness, and investigate key attack parameters for multiple UAV navigation scenarios. Results from the experiments show that the average rewards during a Byzantine attack increased by up to 60% for the cooperative navigation scenario compared with conventional MARL techniques. The learning rewards generated by the baseline algorithms could not converge during training under these attacks, while the proposed method effectively converged to an optimal solution, proving its viability and correctness.
What Is Hidden in Clear Sight and How to Find It—A Survey of the Integration of Artificial Intelligence and Eye Tracking
Authors: Kędras Maja , Sobecki Janusz
Published: November 2023

This paper presents an overview of the uses of the combination of eye tracking and artificial intelligence. In the paper, several aspects of both eye tracking and applied AI methods have been analyzed. It analyzes the eye tracking hardware used along with the sampling frequency, the number of test participants, additional parameters, the extraction of features, the artificial intelligence methods used and the methods of verification of the results. Finally, it includes a comparison of the results obtained in the analyzed literature and a discussion about them.
Heteroleptic Copper(II) Complexes Containing an Anthraquinone and a Phenanthroline as Synthetic Nucleases and Potential Anticancer Agents
Authors: de Souza Ívina P. , Silva Júlia R. L. , Costa Amanda O. , Freitas Jennifer T. J. , Diniz Renata , Fazzi Rodrigo B. , da Costa Ferreira Ana M. , Pereira-Maia Elene C.
Published: November 2023

Two ternary copper(II) complexes with an anthraquinone and a N,N-heterocyclic donor, [Cu(dmp)(L)(H2O)](ClO4) (1), [Cu(bpy)(L)(dmso)](ClO4) (2), in which dmp = 2,9-dimethyl-1,10-phenanthroline, bpy = 2,2′-bipyridine, and HL = 1-hydroxyanthracene-9,10-dione were synthesized and fully characterized by conductivity, elemental, and spectral analyses (FTIR and UV-Vis; EPR and ESI-MS). The structure of 1 reveals that Cu(II) is bound to two oxygens of L, two nitrogens of dmp, and a molecule of water in the fifth position. In complex 2.1, Cu(II) is also pentacoordinated with an O-bonded dmso in the axial position. The presence of the heteroleptic complexes in solution was evidenced by ESI-MS, EPR in dmso solution and UV-Vis spectrophotometry. All complexes bind to CT-DNA with affinity constants of approximately 104. Complex 2 can nick plasmid DNA but no cleavage was performed by complex 1. The investigation of DNA interactions by spectrofluorimetry using ethidium bromide (EB) showed that it was displaced from DNA sites by the addition of the complexes. The complexes inhibited the growth of chronic myelogenous leukemia and human squamous carcinoma cells with low IC50 values, complex 1 being the most effective.
Topographical Correlation between Structural and Functional Impairment of the Macular Inner Retinal Layers in Multiple Sclerosis Eyes with a History of Optic Neuropathy
Authors: Parisi Vincenzo , Barbano Lucilla , Antonelli Giulio , Nicoletti Carolina Gabri , Landi Doriana , Mataluni Giorgia , Di Renzo Antonio , Buttari Fabio , Marfia Girolama Alessandra , Centonze Diego , Ziccardi Lucia
Published: November 2023

We investigated the potential correlation between morphological and functional parameters describing the rarefaction and dysfunction of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), located in the macula, in multiple sclerosis eyes with a history of optic neuritis (MS-ON). A total of 19 MS-ON eyes from 19 MS patients (mean age: 44.16 ± 4.66 years; 11 females and 8 males), with a mean disease duration of 10.06 ± 6.12 years and full recovery of visual acuity, and 30 age-similar (mean age: 45.09 ± 5.08 years) healthy eyes were submitted for ophthalmological evaluation using swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT) and multifocal photopic negative response (mfPhNR) to study the structural and functional features of localized RGCs. Both GCL+ thickness (via SS-OCT) and response amplitude density (RAD) (via mfPhNR) measurements were obtained from annular regions and ETDRS sectors. Morphological and electrophysiological data from the control and MS groups were compared by using an ANOVA test. GCL+ values were correlated with the corresponding RADs derived from almost superimposable areas using Pearson’s tests (p < 0.01). In MS-ON eyes, the mean values of macular GCL+-T and mfPhNR RAD detected in all rings and ETDRS sectors were significantly reduced (p < 0.01) when compared with control ones. In addition, when plotting the GCL+-T and mfPhNR RAD individual data from MS-ON eyes, we found statistically significant linear correlations (p < 0.01) when considering responses from both rings and sectors. In conclusion, in MS-ON eyes, a topographical correlation between structural and functional impairment of macular RGCs occurs.
Nutritional Risk Assessment and Adverse Events in Patients Undergoing Left Ventricular Assist Device Implantation—A Retrospective Cohort Study Using Hospital Information System
Authors: Milaniak Irena , Tomaszek Lucyna , Wiśniowska-Śmiałek Sylwia , Górkiewicz-Kot Izabela , Wasilewski Grzegorz , Kurleto Paulina , Kaleta Michał , Sobczyk Dorota , Wierzbicki Karol
Published: November 2023

Clinical or subclinical malnutrition occurs in 30% to 70% of patients with advanced heart failure and increases the risk of postoperative adverse events. The main objective of this study was to assess the nutritional status of patients prior to left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation using different methods of malnutrition assessment and to evaluate the relationship between nutritional status and postoperative adverse events. A retrospective cohort study included 120 patients aged 26–74 years referred for LVAD surgery. Preoperative nutritional status (NRS-2002—Nutritional Risk Score 2002, NRI—Nutritional Risk Index, PNI—Prognostic Nutritional Index; TLC—total lymphocyte count) and postoperative adverse events were assessed. Moderate to severe malnutrition was found in 55.8%, 43.3%, 40.0%, and 20% of all patients, respectively, according to the PNI, NRI, TLC, and NRS-2002 scores. Patients with a TLC < 1200 cells/m3 had a higher risk of postoperative acute renal failure [hazard ratio (HR): 2.5; 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 1.01–6.3] and death during the observation period [HR = 2.1; 95% CI: 1.2–3.5]. Moderate to severe malnutrition was also associated with a significantly increased risk of in-hospital death [for the NRI score, HR = 4.9 (95% CI: 1.1–22.0); for the PNI score, HR = 5.0 (95% CI: 1.1–22.3)]. In conclusion, moderate to severe malnutrition prior to LVAD implantation has been identified as a risk factor for postoperative acute renal failure and mortality. Assessment of nutritional risk may improve patient selection and early initiation of nutritional support.