bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor-Specific CAR-T Cells in the Suppression of Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Cheng Chen , Cui Heyang , Liu Huijuan , Wu Yueguang , Ding Ning , Weng Yongjia , Zhang Weimin , Cui Yongping
Published: December 2022

ESCC is a highly malignant tumor, and its morbidity and mortality in China account for more than 50% of the world’s total rates. As effective treatments are lacking, the 5-year survival rate of patients does not exceed 30%. CAR-T-cell-based immunotherapy has emerged as one of the most promising cancer treatments; however, there are relatively fewer reports regarding its application for ESCC. In this study, we conducted large-sample whole-genome sequencing (WGS) and RNA-seq analysis of patients with ESCC from China to examine the feasibility of EGFR-targeting CAR-T cells in the treatment of ESCC. We found much higher levels of EGFR gene amplification and overexpression in tumors than in the normal tissues, indicating that EGFR could be a promising target of CAR-T-cell-based immunotherapy in ESCC. Therefore, we tested EGFR-targeting CAR-T cells for lytic activity against ESCC cells as a model to establish cellular immunotherapy for ESCC. Five types of CAR-T cells targeting EGFR were constructed, two of which, CAR1-T and CAR2-T, showed a strong cytotoxicity against ESCC in in vitro and in vivo experiments. The results of this study suggest that CAR1-T and CAR2-T have the potential to be used for anti-ESCC immunotherapy in clinics.
Heterostructured Photocatalysts Associating ZnO Nanorods and Ag-In-Zn-S Quantum Dots for the Visible Light-Driven Photocatalytic Degradation of the Acid Orange 7 Dye
Authors: Mrad Maroua , Chouchene Bilel , Ben Chaabane Tahar , Gries Thomas , Medjahdi Ghouti , Balan Lavinia , Schneider Raphaël
Published: December 2022

Heterostructured photocatalysts associating ZnO nanorods (NRs) sensitized by quaternary Ag-In-Zn-S (AIZS) quantum dots (QDs) were prepared by depositing AIZS QDs at the surface of ZnO NRs followed by thermal treatment at 300 °C. The ZnO/AIZS catalysts were characterized by X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy, UV-vis diffuse spectroscopy and by photoelectrochemical measurements. Their photocatalytic activity was evaluated for the bleaching of the Acid Orange 7 (AO7) dye under visible light irradiation. Results show that the association of ZnO NRs with 10 wt% AIZS QDs affords the photocatalyst the highest activity due to the enhanced visible light absorption combined with the improved charge separation. The ZnO/AIZS(10) photocatalyst degrades 98% AO7 in 90 min under visible light illumination, while ZnO NRs can only decompose 11% of the dye. The ZnO/AIZS(10) photocatalyst was also found to be stable and can be reused up to eight times without significant alteration of its activity. This work demonstrates the high potential of AIZS QDs for the development of visible light active photocatalysts.
Pd/Cu-Catalyzed Cross-Coupling of Bis(2-bromovinyl) Selenides with Terminal Acetylenes: Unusual Involvement of Selanyl Function in the Sonogashira Reaction
Authors: Martynov Alexander V. , Makhaeva Nataliya A. , Musalov Maxim V. , Albanov Alexander I. , Amosova Svetlana V.
Published: December 2022

The Pd/Cu-catalyzed Sonogashira reaction of (E,E)-bis(2-bromovinyl) selenide and (E,E)-bis(1-bromo-1-hexen-2-yl) selenide with terminal alkynes was found to proceed at room temperature involving both bromine atoms and the selanyl function. As a result, new bis-(1,3-enynyl) selenides and enediyne hydrocarbons are formed with a complete retention of the stereoconfiguration of the initial selenides. Due to steric hindrances in the cross-coupling at the selenyl function in the case of (E,E)-bis(1-bromo-1-hexen-2-yl) selenide, the second process is realized to a lesser extent than with unsubstituted (E,E)-bis(2-bromovinyl) selenide.
Phytocannabinoids Stimulate Rejuvenation and Prevent Cellular Senescence in Human Dermal Fibroblasts
Authors: Gerasymchuk Marta , Robinson Gregory Ian , Groves Alyssa , Haselhorst Lucie , Nandakumar Sanjana , Stahl Cora , Kovalchuk Olga , Kovalchuk Igor
Published: December 2022

In light of the increased popularity of phytocannabinoids (pCBs) and their appearance in beauty products without rigorous research on their rejuvenation efficacy, we decided to investigate the potential role of pCBs in skin rejuvenation. Utilizing healthy and stress-induced premature senescent (SIPS) CCD-1064Sk skin fibroblasts, the effects of pCBs on cellular viability, functional activity, metabolic function, and nuclear architecture were tested. Both delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) within the range of 0.5 µM to 2.0 µM increased cell growth in a dose-dependent manner while significantly decreasing senescence as measured by beta-galactosidase activity. Utilizing a scratch assay, both THC and CBD (2.0 µM) significantly improved wound healing in both healthy and SIPS fibroblasts. THC and CBD altered nuclear architecture and mRNA levels of cell cycle regulators and genes involved in ECM production. Subsequently, we found ELN, Cyclin D1, PCNA, and BID protein levels altered by SIPS but ameliorated after pCBs exposure in human dermal fibroblasts. Lastly, we compared the efficacy of THC and CBD with common anti-aging nutrient signaling regulators in replicative senescent adult human dermal fibroblasts, CCD-1135Sk. Both THC and CBD were found to improve wound healing better than metformin, rapamycin, and triacetylresveratrol in replicative senescent CCD-1135Sk fibroblasts. Therefore, pCBs can be a valuable source of biologically active substances used in cosmetics, and more studies using clinical trials should be performed to confirm the efficacy of phytocannabinoids.
Osteometabolism: Metabolic Alterations in Bone Pathologies
Authors: Srivastava Rupesh K. , Sapra Leena , Mishra Pradyumna K.
Published: December 2022

Renewing interest in the study of intermediate metabolism and cellular bioenergetics is brought on by the global increase in the prevalence of metabolic illnesses. Understanding of the mechanisms that integrate energy metabolism in the entire organism has significantly improved with the application of contemporary biochemical tools for quantifying the fuel substrate metabolism with cutting-edge mouse genetic procedures. Several unexpected findings in genetically altered mice have prompted research into the direction of intermediate metabolism of skeletal cells. These findings point to the possibility of novel endocrine connections through which bone cells can convey their energy status to other metabolic control centers. Understanding the expanded function of skeleton system has in turn inspired new lines of research aimed at characterizing the energy needs and bioenergetic characteristics of these bone cells. Bone-forming osteoblast and bone-resorbing osteoclast cells require a constant and large supply of energy substrates such as glucose, fatty acids, glutamine, etc., for their differentiation and functional activity. According to latest research, important developmental signaling pathways in bone cells are connected to bioenergetic programs, which may accommodate variations in energy requirements during their life cycle. The present review article provides a unique perspective of the past and present research in the metabolic characteristics of bone cells along with mechanisms governing energy substrate utilization and bioenergetics. In addition, we discussed the therapeutic inventions which are currently being utilized for the treatment and management of bone-related diseases such as osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), osteogenesis imperfecta (OIM), etc., by modulating the energetics of bone cells. We further emphasized on the role of GUT-associated metabolites (GAMs) such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs), indole derivates, bile acids, etc., in regulating the energetics of bone cells and their plausible role in maintaining bone health. Emphasis is importantly placed on highlighting knowledge gaps in this novel field of skeletal biology, i.e., “Osteometabolism” (proposed by our group) that need to be further explored to characterize the physiological importance of skeletal cell bioenergetics in the context of human health and bone related metabolic diseases.
Effects of Simvastatin on Cartilage Homeostasis in Steroid-Induced Osteonecrosis of Femoral Head by Inhibiting Glucocorticoid Receptor
Authors: Yu Yaling , Lin Lishan , Liu Kangping , Jiang Yixin , Zhou Zhenlei
Published: December 2022

Steroid-induced osteonecrosis of femoral head (SONFH) is one of the most common bone disorders in humans. Statin treatment is beneficial in preventing the development of SONFH through anti-inflammation effects and inhibition of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR). However, potential mechanisms of statin action remain to be determined. In this study, pulse methylprednisolone (MP) treatment was used to induce SONFH in broilers, and then MP-treated birds were administrated with simvastatin simultaneously to investigate the changes in cartilage homeostasis. Meanwhile, chondrocytes were isolated, cultured, and treated with MP, simvastatin, or GR inhibitor in vitro. The changes in serum homeostasis factors, cell viability, and expression of GR were analyzed. The results showed that the morbidity of SONFH in the MP-treated group increased significantly compared with the simvastatin-treated and control group. Furthermore, MP treatment induced apoptosis and high-level catabolism and low-level anabolism in vitro and vivo, while simvastatin significantly decreased catabolism and slightly recovered anabolism via inhibiting GR and the hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) pathway. The GR inhibitor or its siRNA mainly affected the catabolism of cartilage homeostasis in vitro. In conclusion, the occurrence of SONFH in broilers was related to the activation of GR and HIF pathway, and imbalance of cartilage homeostasis. Simvastatin and GR inhibitor maintained cartilage homeostasis via GR and the HIF pathway.
Correction: Peavey et al. Nuclear Receptor Atlases of Choroidal Tissues Reveal Candidate Receptors Associated with Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Cells 2022, 11, 2386
Authors: Peavey Jeremy , Parmar Vipul M. , Malek Goldis
Published: December 2022

In the original publication [...]
HDAC6 Inhibition Alleviates Ischemia- and Cisplatin-Induced Acute Kidney Injury by Promoting Autophagy
Authors: Shi Lang , Song Zhixia , Li Chenglong , Deng Fangjing , Xia Yao , Huang Jing , Wu Xiongfei , Zhu Jiefu
Published: December 2022

Histone deacetylase (HDAC) 6 exists exclusively in cytoplasm and deacetylates cytoplasmic proteins such as α-tubulin. HDAC6 dysfunction is associated with several pathological conditions in renal disorders, including UUO-induced fibrotic kidneys and rhabdomyolysis-induced nephropathy. However, the role of HDAC6 in ischemic acute kidney injury (AKI) and the mechanism by which HDAC6 inhibition protects tubular cells after AKI remain unclear. In the present study, we observed that HDAC6 was markedly activated in kidneys subjected to ischemia- and cisplatin (cis)-induced AKI treatment. Pharmacological inhibition of HDAC6 alleviated renal impairment and renal tubular damage after ischemia and cisplatin treatment. HDAC6 dysfunction was associated with decreased acetylation of α-tubulin at the residue of lysine 40 and autophagy. HDAC6 inhibition preserved acetyl-α-tubulin-enhanced autophagy flux in AKI and cultured tubular cells. Genetic ablation of the renal tubular (RT) Atg7 gene or pharmacological inhibition of autophagy suppressed the protective effects of HDAC6. Taken together, our study indicates that HDAC6 contributes to ischemia- and cisplatin-induced AKI by inhibiting autophagy and the acetylation of α-tubulin. These results suggest that HDAC6 could be a potential target for ischemic and nephrotoxic AKI.
miR-301a Deficiency Attenuates the Macrophage Migration and Phagocytosis through YY1/CXCR4 Pathway
Authors: Xu Jiawei , Fu Lanya , Deng Junyao , Zhang Jiaqi , Zou Ying , Liao Liqiang , Ma Xinrui , Li Zhenlin , Xu Yizhou , Xu Yuantao , Xu Shuyi , Liu Jingmin , Wang Xianghai , Ma Xiaodong , Guo Jiasong
Published: December 2022

(1) Background: the miR-301a is well known involving the proliferation and migration of tumor cells. However, the role of miR-301a in the migration and phagocytosis of macrophages is still unclear. (2) Methods: sciatic nerve injury, liver injury models, as well as primary macrophage cultures were prepared from the miR-301a knockout (KO) and wild type (WT) mice to assess the macrophage’s migration and phagocytosis capabilities. Targetscan database analysis, Western blotting, siRNA transfection, and CXCR4 inhibition or activation were performed to reveal miR301a’s potential mechanism. (3) Results: the macrophage’s migration and phagocytosis were significantly attenuated by the miR-301a KO both in vivo and in vitro. MiR-301a can target Yin-Yang 1 (YY1), and miR-301a KO resulted in YY1 up-regulation and CXCR4 (YY1′s down-stream molecule) down-regulation. siYY1 increased the expression of CXCR4 and enhanced migration and phagocytosis in KO macrophages. Meanwhile, a CXCR4 inhibitor or agonist could attenuate or accelerate, respectively, the macrophage migration and phagocytosis. (4) Conclusions: current findings indicated that miR-301a plays important roles in a macrophage’s capabilities of migration and phagocytosis through the YY1/CXCR4 pathway. Hence, miR-301a might be a promising therapeutic candidate for inflammatory diseases by adjusting macrophage bio-functions.
Recent Progress in the Core-Shell Nanostructures of the NiMoO4-Based Composite Materials for Supercapacitor Applications: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Sasikumar Kandasamy , Ju Heongkyu
Published: December 2022

Supercapacitors have emerged as one of the promising energy storage systems owing to their rapid charge/discharge capability, long-term cycling stability, and high power density. The application of core-shell nanostructures for supercapacitors is one of the effective strategies to achieve a high specific surface area for abundant reaction sites and good electrical conductivity for fast charge transfer, hence improving the performance of supercapacitors. Particularly, the use of NiMoO4 for the core-shell structure has drawn great attention due to its outstanding advantages, such as its natural abundance, low material cost, superior electrochemical performance, and wide electrochemical potential window in cyclic voltammetry. In this context, this review comprehensively covers the recent progress of the core-shell nanostructures based on the NiMoO4-composite materials, which find applications in supercapacitors. The composite materials that incorporate metal oxides such as NiMoO4, metal hydroxides, metal chalcogenides, carbon materials, and conductive polymers are discussed in detail for such core-shell nanostructures with the aim of understanding how the adopted materials and the relevant morphology govern the electrochemical features for supercapacitors. Finally, the existing challenges in current technologies for supercapacitors are discussed, while possible future directions in developing the NiMoO4-composite-based core-shell nanostructures are proposed for high-performance supercapacitors.
Clinical and Demographic Factors Associated with Receiving an Opioid Prescription following Admission to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Holley Amy L. , Hall Trevor A. , Orwoll Ben , Wilson Anna C. , Battison Eleanor A. J. , Clohessy Denae , Williams Cydni N.
Published: December 2022

Opioids are commonly used to treat pain in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU), and many children receive opioid prescription(s) at discharge. The frequency of opioid prescriptions at discharge and associations with individual characteristics and clinical factors are unknown. This study aimed to identify (1) the number of children who receive an opioid prescription at PICU discharge and (2) the demographic and clinical factors associated with receiving an opioid prescription. Data were collected via the electronic medical record. The sample was 3345 children (birth to 18 years) admitted to the PICU and discharged to home or an inpatient rehabilitation setting. In total, 23.7% of children were prescribed an opioid at discharge. There were group differences in who received opioid prescriptions (yes/no) related to PICU diagnosis, length of hospital stay, number of days on mechanical ventilation, number of previous hospitalizations, organ dysfunction score, and admission type (surgical versus non-surgical). Binary logistic regression models examined predictors of opioid prescription at discharge for the total sample and diagnostic subgroups. Older age and surgical admission type were the most consistent predictors of receiving an opioid prescription. Future research should examine prescription usage patterns and how use of opioids is associated with pain and functional outcomes over time.
Adaptive Behavior in Slovak Children with Intellectual Disability in Institutional Care
Authors: Hapčová Margaréta , Celušáková Hana , Turoňová Daniela , Souček Vaňová Michaela , Besedová Lenka , Demkaninová Diana , Babinská Katarína
Published: December 2022

This study aimed to analyze the adaptive skills of children with intellectual disabilities in institutional care. We focused on communication, socialization, daily living skills and their relationship with risk factors, and institutional care. Our sample included 197 children aged 5–18 years (M = 12.8, SD = 2.97), 50% boys, with IQ < 85 placed in different types and lengths of stay in institutional care. There were 17% that presented with borderline intellectual functioning (IQ 84–87) and 83% that had intellect disabilities. Adaptive behavior (AB) was assessed by Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scale (VABS-3). The BIF and Mild ID groups did not differ in Socialization. The profile of adaptive behavior for BIF and Mild ID was Daily Living Skills > Communication > Socialization, and for Moderate and Severe ID, Socialization > Daily Living Skills > Communication. Longer institutional care was associated with lower competencies in AB. Gender differences were found, females overperformed males in Socialization, Daily Living Skills, and ABC score. Levels of ID, gender, length of stay in institutional care, and neonatal difficulties were significant predictors in the model which explain the 63% variance of AB. The practical implications of the results are discussed related to the assessment of ID, prevention, and care for institutionalized children.
Reference Values of Absolute and Relative Handgrip Strength in Chilean Schoolchildren with Intellectual Disabilities
Authors: Farías-Valenzuela Claudio , Ferrero-Hernández Paloma , Ferrari Gerson , Espoz-Lazo Sebastián , Castillo-Paredes Antonio , Álvarez-Arangua Sebastián , Valdivia-Moral Pedro
Published: December 2022

Handgrip strength is a simple measure of general muscle strength and is related to functionality in people with intellectual disabilities. The objective of this research was to describe the normative values of absolute and relative handgrip strength in children, adolescents and adults according to sex. The sample was made up of 264 schoolchildren (n = 168 men) belonging to five special education schools in Santiago of Chile. The results show higher levels of absolute handgrip strength in males compared to females. The maximum peak of the absolute manual handgrip is reached in females in adolescence with a decrease in adulthood. Relative handgrip strength levels are similar in boys and girls. In females, the relative handgrip strength is similar in childhood and adolescence. Relative handgrip strength declines in both sexes from adolescence to adulthood. The reference values of this study can be used by professionals in the areas of health and education as a guide for interpretation, monitoring and follow-up of Chilean schooled people with intellectual disabilities.
Deliberative and Affective Risky Decisions in Teenagers: Different Associations with Maladaptive Psychological Functioning and Difficulties in Emotion Regulation?
Authors: Lauriola Marco , Cerniglia Luca , Tambelli Renata , Cimino Silvia
Published: December 2022

Using network analysis, we investigated the relationships between maladaptive psychological functioning, difficulties in emotion regulation, and risk-taking in deliberative and affective behavioral decisions. Participants (103 adolescents aged between 13 and 19 years, 62% boys) took the Cold (deliberative) and Hot (affective) versions of the Columbia Card Task and completed the Youth Self-Report (YSR) and the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS). In contrast to the view that risk propensity increases from preadolescence to middle adolescence and decreases at later ages, our study revealed no age-specific trend. YSR syndrome scales were significantly correlated with risk propensity, but only in the Cold version. The YSR Thought Problems scale was the most central node in the network, linking internalizing and externalizing problems with risk propensity in the Cold CCT. Lack of emotional Clarity was the only DERS consistently linked with risk-taking both in correlation and network analyses. Maladaptive psychological functioning and difficulties in emotion regulation were linked with risk propensity in affective risky decisions through deliberative processes. The statistical significance of direct and indirect effects was further examined using nonparametric mediation analyses. Our study highlights the role of cognitive factors that in each variable set might account for risk-taking in teenagers.
Improving Cohort-Hospital Matching Accuracy through Standardization and Validation of Participant Identifiable Information
Authors: Hu Yanhong Jessika , Fedyukova Anna , Wang Jing , Said Joanne M. , Thomas Niranjan , Noble Elizabeth , Cheong Jeanie L. Y. , Karanatsios Bill , Goldfeld Sharon , Wake Melissa
Published: December 2022

Linking very large, consented birth cohorts to birthing hospitals clinical data could elucidate the lifecourse outcomes of health care and exposures during the pregnancy, birth and newborn periods. Unfortunately, cohort personally identifiable information (PII) often does not include unique identifier numbers, presenting matching challenges. To develop optimized cohort matching to birthing hospital clinical records, this pilot drew on a one-year (December 2020–December 2021) cohort for a single Australian birthing hospital participating in the whole-of-state Generation Victoria (GenV) study. For 1819 consented mother-baby pairs and 58 additional babies (whose mothers were not themselves participating), we tested the accuracy and effort of various approaches to matching. We selected demographic variables drawn from names, DOB, sex, telephone, address (and birth order for multiple births). After variable standardization and validation, accuracy rose from 10% to 99% using a deterministic-rule-based approach in 10 steps. Using cohort-specific modifications of the Australian Statistical Linkage Key (SLK-581), it took only 3 steps to reach 97% (SLK-5881) and 98% (SLK-5881.1) accuracy. We conclude that our SLK-5881 process could safely and efficiently achieve high accuracy at the population level for future birth cohort-birth hospital matching in the absence of unique identifier numbers.
A Comparison of the Use of Pontryagin’s Maximum Principle and Reinforcement Learning Techniques for the Optimal Charging of Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Rauh Andreas , Lahme Marit , Benzinane Oussama
Published: December 2022

Battery systems are one of the most important components for the development of flexible energy storage for future applications. These comprise energy storage in both the mobility sector and stationary applications. To ensure the safe operation of multiple battery cells connected in series and parallel in a battery pack, it is essential to implement state of charge (SOC) equalization strategies. Generally, two fundamentally different approaches can be distinguished. On the one hand, these are passive approaches for SOC equalization that are based on including additional Ohmic resistors in a battery back over which equalization currents flow as long as the correspondingly connected cells have different voltages. Despite the simple implementation of such equalization circuits, they have a major drawback, namely wasting stored energy to perform the SOC equalization. This waste of energy goes along with Ohmic heat production, which leads to the necessity of additional cooling for batteries with large power densities. On the other hand, active SOC equalization approaches have been investigated, which allow for an independent charging of the individual cells. Especially, this latter approach has big potential to be more energy efficient. In addition, the potential for a reduction of Ohmic heat production may contribute to extending the lifetime of battery cells. To perform the individual charging of battery cells in an energetically optimal manner, this paper provides a comparison of closed-form optimization approaches on the basis of Pontryagin’s maximum principle and approaches for reinforcement learning. Especially, their accuracy and applicability for the implementation of optimal online cell charging strategies are investigated.
Effect of TiC Content and TaC Addition in Substrates on Properties and Wear Behavior of TiAlN-Coated Tools
Authors: Yi Jiyong , Xu Yinchao , Liu Zhixiong , Xiao Lijuan
Published: December 2022

The present paper reports a new way to improve the wear resistance of coated carbide tools by increases in TiC content and the addition of TaC in substrates. The results suggest that the average grain size of the substrate increased with the increases in TiC (0–14 wt.%) content, and the hardness of the TiAlN coating deposited on the substrate exhibits a similar trend. In addition, the adhesion strength of the TiAlN-coated carbide increases with increasing TiC content, which can be attributed the formation of the (Ti,W)C phase and the similar hardness of the substrate and coating. The addition of TaC into the substrates inhibits the grain growth and thereby causes the hardness and adhesion strength of the TiAlN coatings to improve from 24.6 GPa and 16.7 N to 30.1 GPa and 17.3 N, respectively. In turning tests, the TiAlN coating deposited on the substrates with the TaC addition achieved the best wear resistance in turning stainless steel because it possessed the highest substrate and coating hardness and sufficient adhesion strength. However, the TiAlN coating deposited on the substrates with a higher TiC content shows the better wear resistance in turning titanium (TC4), which can be attributed to it having the highest adhesion strength.
Synthesis of D-A-Type Polymers Containing Thieno[3,2-b]thiophene Unit, Their Composites with Carbon, and Lithium Storage Performance as Anode Materials
Authors: Wang Min , Li Chunxia , Zhao Jinsheng , Li Aifeng , Liang Bo
Published: December 2022

Conjugated organic polymers have attracted extensive attention due to their light weight, mechanical flexibility, and structural diversity. However, poor electronic conductivity limits their application in the electrodes of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). In this paper, two composites of D-A (donor-acceptor) polymer and activated carbon (AC)—PTPP@AC and PTPTD@AC—were designed and successfully prepared using thieno[3,2-b]thiophene (BTh) as the donor unit, benzo [1,2-b:6,5-b′] dithiophene-4,5-dione or 7a,11a-Dihydro-3,4-dithia-7,12-diaza[a,c]anthracene as the acceptor unit and AC as the substrate. PTPP@AC and PTPTD@AC were then studied as anode materials for LIBs. The successful preparation of the target products was demonstrated by FT-IR, Raman spectra, XRD, and XPS. Electrochemical properties, such as the specific capacity, cycling stability, and rate performance of the electrode materials, were tested by cyclic voltammetry and galvanostatic charge–discharge (GCD). The storage process of lithium ions was investigated by XPS and CV tests. Compared with PTPP@AC, PTPTD@AC had a higher reversible specific capacity (247.3 mAh g−1 after 300 cycles at 0.1 A g−1), a better rate performance (at 1 A g−1, specific capacity of 87.3 mAh g−1), and a higher long-term cycling performance (after 1000 cycles of 0.5 A g−1, the specific capacity remains at 146.6 mAh g−1). The better electrochemical performance of PTPTD compared to PTPP was due to the former’s significantly higher HOMO (highest occupied molecular orbital) energy level than that of PTPP, while the Eg of PTPTD was smaller than that of PTPP. The experimental results show that D-A conjugated polymers have great potential for applications as electrode materials for rechargeable batteries.
Surface Mechanical Properties and Micro-Structure Evolution of 7075 Aluminum Alloy Sheet for 2-Dimension Ellipse Ultrasonic Vibration Incremental Forming: A Pretreatment for Laser Shock Peening
Authors: Lv Yuan , Dong Mengen , Pan Xixiang , Yi Cong , Su Jiaqi
Published: December 2022

In this paper, a composite technique of ultrasonic incremental forming and laser shock peeing is proposed. The former process is mainly used for the manufacturing of complex-shaped sheet and strengthening coating that is prepared for subsequent laser treatment. The latter is applied for secondary surface reinforcement with ultra-high energy. This work focused on the novel ultrasonic incremental forming method and its effects on surface mechanical properties and micro-structure of a 7075 aluminum alloy. First, a kind of 2-dimension ellipse ultrasonic vibration incremental forming process and the unique double-mechanism method of sectionalized cooperative control of plastic deformation and mechanical performance were designed. Second, the single-point incremental forming, the longitudinal ultrasonic vibration incremental forming, and the 2 dimension ellipse ultrasonic vibration incremental forming were performed for the manufacture of conical components of 7075 aluminum alloy. Third, the Vickers micro-hardness testing results and images of the fracture morphology of the machined part for the novel technique confirm that softening mechanisms become dominant inside the metal sheet. Furthermore, a strengthening coating with excellent mechanical properties and a residual compressive stress field were created on its surface simultaneously. In a word, the research shows potential values of the proposed technique for the manufacture of aircraft panels of complex shape and excellent surface properties.
Forecasting the Cumulative COVID-19 Cases in Indonesia Using Flower Pollination Algorithm
Authors: Afiahayati  , Wah Yap , Hartati Sri , Sari Yunita , Trisna I , Putri Diyah , Musdholifah Aina , Wardoyo Retantyo
Published: December 2022

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was declared as a global pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO) on 12 March 2020. Indonesia is reported to have the highest number of cases in Southeast Asia. Accurate prediction of the number of COVID-19 cases in the upcoming few days is required as one of the considerations in making decisions to provide appropriate recommendations in the process of mitigating global pandemic infectious diseases. In this research, a metaheuristics optimization algorithm, the flower pollination algorithm, is used to forecast the cumulative confirmed COVID-19 cases in Indonesia. The flower pollination algorithm is a robust and adaptive method to perform optimization for curve fitting of COVID-19 cases. The performance of the flower pollination algorithm was evaluated and compared with a machine learning method which is popular for forecasting, the recurrent neural network. A comprehensive experiment was carried out to determine the optimal hyperparameters for the flower pollination algorithm and recurrent neural network. There were 24 and 72 combinations of hyperparameters for the flower pollination algorithm and recurrent neural network, respectively. The best hyperparameters were used to develop the COVID-19 forecasting model. Experimental results showed that the flower pollination algorithm performed better than the recurrent neural network in long-term (two weeks) and short-term (one week) forecasting of COVID-19 cases. The mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) for the flower pollination algorithm model (0.38%) was much lower than that of the recurrent neural network model (5.31%) in the last iteration for long-term forecasting. Meanwhile, the MAPE for the flower pollination algorithm model (0.74%) is also lower than the recurrent neural network model (4.8%) in the last iteration for short-term forecasting of the cumulative COVID-19 cases in Indonesia. This research provides state-of-the-art results to help the process of mitigating the global pandemic of COVID-19 in Indonesia.
Nitrogen Structure Determination in Treated Fancy Diamonds via EPR Spectroscopy
Authors: Litvak Ira , Cahana Avner , Anker Yaakov , Ruthstein Sharon , Cohen Haim
Published: December 2022

Color induction in nitrogen-contaminated diamonds was carried out via various procedures that involve irradiation, thermal treatments (annealing), and more. These treatments affect vacancy defect production and atom orientation centers in the diamond lattice. Natural diamonds underwent color enhancement treatments in order to produce green, blue, and yellow fancy diamonds. The aim of this study was to follow the changes occurring during the treatment, mainly by EPR spectroscopy, which is the main source for the determination of the effect of paramagnetic centers (carbon-centered radicals) on the color centers produced via the treatments, but also via visual assessment, fluorescence, UV-vis, and FTIR spectroscopy. The results indicate that diamonds containing high levels of nitrogen contamination are associated with high carbon-centered radical concentrations. Four paramagnetic center structures (N1, N4, and P2/W21) were generated by the treatment. It is suggested that the N4 structure correlates with the formation of blue color centers, whereas yellow color centers are attributed to the presence of N1 species. While to produce blue and yellow colors, a thermal treatment is needed after irradiation, for treated green diamonds, no thermal treatment is needed (only irradiation).
Toward Affirmation of Recovery of Deeply Embedded Autobiographical Memory with Background Music and Identification of an EEG Biomarker in Combination with EDA Signal Using Wearable Sensors
Authors: Das Rupak Kumar , Imtiaz Nabiha Zainab , Khan Arshia
Published: December 2022

There is no disputing the role that background music plays in memory recall. Music has the power to activate the brain and trigger deeply ingrained memories. For dementia patients, background music is a common therapy because of this. Previous studies used music to recall lyrics, series of words, and long- and short-term memories. In this research, electroencephalogram (EEG) and electrodermal activity (EDA) data are collected from 40 healthy participants using wearable sensors during nine music sessions (three happy, three sad, and three neutral). A post-study survey is given to all participants after each piece of music to know if they recalled any autobiographical memories. The main objective is to find an EEG biomarker using the collected qualitative and quantitative data for autobiographical memory recall. The study finds that for all four EEG channels, alpha power rises considerably (on average 16.2%) during the memory “recall” scenario (F3: p = 0.0066, F7: p = 0.0386, F4: p = 0.0023, and F8: p = 0.0288) compared to the “no-recall” situation. Beta power also increased significantly for two channels (F3: p = 0.0100 and F4: p = 0.0210) but not for others (F7: p = 0.6792 and F8: p = 0.0814). Additionally, the phasic standard deviation (p = 0.0260), phasic max (p = 0.0011), phasic energy (p = 0.0478), tonic min (p = 0.0092), tonic standard deviation (p = 0.0171), and phasic energy (p = 0.0478) are significantly different for the EDA signal. The authors conclude by interpreting increased alpha power (8–12 Hz) as a biomarker for autobiographical memory recall.
CDK4/6 Inhibitors as Upfront Treatment in a Patient with Breast Cancer Presenting with a Clinical Critic Situation: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Targato Giada , Bortot Lucia , Dri Arianna , Bonotto Marta , Minisini Alessandro Marco , Fasola Gianpiero , Mansutti Mauro
Published: December 2022

CDK4/6 inhibitors have revolutionized the treatment algorithm of luminal metastatic breast cancer, becoming the recommended first-line therapy in association with endocrine therapy. However, due to its theoretically greater and more rapid tumor shrinkage, the upfront use of chemotherapy is considered in some clinical situations like visceral crisis. At the state of the art level, a paucity of data is available about the use of CDK4/6 inhibitors in patients presenting with visceral crisis or with life-threatening conditions since this population was historically excluded from clinical trials. In addition, data regarding direct comparison between combinations of chemotherapy and CDK4/6 inhibitors in terms of efficacy, rapidity of responses and long-term outcomes are lacking. We report the case of a 68-year-old woman with luminal metastatic breast cancer presenting at diagnosis with a critical and potentially life-threatening condition. The patient was treated with first-line Abemaciclib plus letrozole and achieved a rapid partial response with sudden clinical stabilization. Although the patient did not technically present with a visceral crisis, this case presentation also endorsed the upfront use of CDK4/6 inhibitor combinations in critical clinical situations in the absence of severe organ dysfunction and after multidisciplinary discussion.
Prognostic Relevance of Type 2 Diabetes and Metformin Treatment in Head and Neck Melanoma: Results from a Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Spoerl Steffen , Gerken Michael , Schimnitz Susanne , Taxis Juergen , Fischer René , Lindner Sophia R. , Ettl Tobias , Ludwig Nils , Spoerl Silvia , Reichert Torsten E. , Spanier Gerrit
Published: December 2022

Background: Type 2 Diabetes (DM2) and the consecutively daily use of antidiabetic medication are characterized by a frequent prevalence worldwide and were shown to impact the initiation and progression of malignant diseases. While these effects were observed in a variety of malignancies, comprehensive data about the role of DM2 and antidiabetic drugs in the outcome of head and neck melanoma (HNM) patients are missing. Methods: This retrospective population-based cohort study included 382 HNM patients from Eastern Bavaria having received tumor resection to negative margins between 2010 and 2017. Recurrence-free survival (RFS) was evaluated with regard to DM2 and routine metformin intake. Statistical analysis was performed by uni- and multivariate analyses. The median follow-up time was 5.6 years. Results: DM2 was diagnosed in 68 patients (17.8%), routine metformin intake was found in 39 cases (10.2%). The univariate survival analysis revealed impaired 5-year RFS in HNM patients with DM2 compared to non-diabetic controls (p = 0.016; 64.0% and 74.5%, respectively). The multivariate Cox regression substantiated this effect (HR = 1.980, 95% CI = 1.108–3.538, p = 0.021). In detail, the cumulative locoregional recurrence rate displayed the most far-reaching negative effect on the RFS of diabetic HNM patients (HR = 4.173, 95% CI = 1.628–10.697, p = 0.003). For metformin intake, a profound positive effect on the RFS in multivariate statistics was observed, both in the complete cohort (HR = 0.396, 95% CI = 0.177–0.884, p = 0.024) as well as in the cohort of diabetic HNM patients (HR = 0.352, 95% CI = 0.135–0.913, p = 0.032). Conclusions: This study emphasizes that DM2 is a relevant comorbid condition in HNM patients, impairing patient survival. Metformin intake was associated with a favorable outcome in HNM patients, providing possible therapeutic implications for future adjuvant treatment regimes.
Status and Trends in the Rate of Introduction of Marine Non-Indigenous Species in European Seas
Authors: Zenetos Argyro , Tsiamis Konstantinos , Galanidi Marika , Carvalho Natacha , Bartilotti Cátia , Canning-Clode João , Castriota Luca , Chainho Paula , Comas-González Robert , Costa Ana C. , Dragičević Branko , Dulčić Jakov , Faasse Marco , Florin Ann-Britt , Gittenberger Arjan , Jakobsen Hans , Jelmert Anders , Kerckhof Francis , Lehtiniemi Maiju , Livi Silvia , Lundgreen Kim , Macic Vesna , Massé Cécile , Mavrič Borut , Naddafi Rahmat , Orlando-Bonaca Martina , Petovic Slavica , Png-Gonzalez Lydia , Carbonell Quetglas Aina , Ribeiro Romeu S. , Cidade Tiago , Smolders Sander , Stæhr Peter A. U. , Viard Frederique , Outinen Okko
Published: December 2022

Invasive alien species are a major worldwide driver of biodiversity change. The current study lists verified records of non-indigenous species (NIS) in European marine waters until 2020, with the purpose of establishing a baseline, assessing trends, and discussing appropriate threshold values for good environmental status (GES) according to the relevant European legislation. All NIS records were verified by national experts and trends are presented in six-year assessment periods from 1970 to 2020 according to the European Union Marine Strategy Framework Directive. Altogether, 874 NIS have been introduced to European marine waters until 2020 with the Mediterranean Sea and North-East Atlantic Ocean hosting most of the introductions. Overall, the number of new introductions has steadily increased since 2000. The annual rate of new introductions reached 21 new NIS in European seas within the last six-year assessment period (2012–2017). This increase is likely due to increased human activities and research efforts that have intensified during the early 21st century within European Seas. As Europe seas are not environmentally, nor geographically homogenous, the setting of threshold values for assessing GES requires regional expertise. Further, once management measures are operational, pathway-specific threshold values would enable assessing the effectiveness of such measures.
Dietary Variation Is Driven by Landscape Heterogeneity in an Insular Omnivorous Endemic Lizard, Revealed by DNA Metabarcoding
Authors: Rato Catarina , Dellinger Thomas , Carretero Miguel A.
Published: December 2022

Living on islands entails numerous challenges for animals, among which population density approaching the carrying capacity of trophic resources stands out. To overcome this limitation, many insular lizards can supplement their insectivorous diet with increasing portions of plant material. The Madeira wall lizard, Teira dugesii, is a medium-sized lacertid, endemic to the Madeira and Selvagens archipelagos. As common in this family, adults are sexually dimorphic with males being bigger than females. Previous dietary studies on morphological scatology identified a higher proportion of plant over animal prey items, changing according to the location and sex. Here, we used DNA metabarcoding to examine the diet of this lizard species quantifying it at a higher taxonomical resolution and enhancing the detection of soft-body prey that often go undetected in morphology-based studies. In a sample of 151 faecal samples from eight populations including different habitats and altitudes in Madeira, we identified 289 prey items belonging to eight animal and three plant Classes, encompassing 58 distinct orders and 140 families. Of these, 63 were identified up to the species level. The results support a strong trend towards herbivory in this species with plants representing almost 74% of the diet occurrences in contrast to the 26% of animal prey. Remarkably, the plant fraction of the diet remained stable across localities but varied with size and mass in males. As males grew bigger and heavier, they significantly increased their plant matter intake. Likely, larger bodies and abdomens allowed allocating longer and more complex digestive tracts harbouring intestinal flora to better decompose plant organic compounds. This allowed heavier animals to have a richer diet regime. However, diet richness and composition were not affected by either sex or size, while the locality had a significant effect on both diet components likely in response to local variation in prey availability. By including an increasing plant fraction into a primarily insectivorous diet, this insular lizard has not only enlarged its trophic niche but is also able to exploit more efficiently the highly variable resources provided by insular environments.
Addressing the Use of Artificial Intelligence Tools in the Design of Visual Persuasive Discourses
Authors: Ruiz-Arellano Ana Erika , Mejía-Medina David A. , Castillo-Topete Victor H. , Fong-Mata María Berenice , Hernández-Torres Ervey L. , Rodríguez-Valenzuela Paloma , Berra-Ruiz Enrique
Published: December 2022

Artificial intelligence (AI) systems to generate images from natural language are a game changer in graphic design. However, in visual persuasive communication, the image is not just a drawing, but is the message itself. It arises from the need for understanding how AI systems could be adopted in the design of visual communication. Thus, this article presents a model that describes the theoretical–methodological factors present in the design of persuasive visual discourses, which arises from a qualitative study with an analysis of grounded theory from the opinion of experts in the essential areas for visual communication. Thus, we propose a model to guide the design process of persuasive messages throughout seven stages. Additionally, an analysis for contributing to the orderly and informed incorporation of technologies, techniques, and methods relevant to each stage is presented.
Maternal Copy Number Imbalances in Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing: Do They Matter?
Authors: Hyblova Michaela , Gnip Andrej , Kucharik Marcel , Budis Jaroslav , Sekelska Martina , Minarik Gabriel
Published: December 2022

Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) has become a routine practice in screening for common aneuploidies of chromosomes 21, 18, and 13 and gonosomes X and Y in fetuses worldwide since 2015 and has even expanded to include smaller subchromosomal events. In fact, the fetal fraction represents only a small proportion of cell-free DNA on a predominant background of maternal DNA. Unlike fetal findings that have to be confirmed using invasive testing, it has been well documented that NIPT provides information on maternal mosaicism, occult malignancies, and hidden health conditions due to copy number variations (CNVs) with diagnostic resolution. Although large duplications or deletions associated with certain medical conditions or syndromes are usually well recognized and easy to interpret, very little is known about small, relatively common copy number variations on the order of a few hundred kilobases and their potential impact on human health. We analyzed data from 6422 NIPT patient samples with a CNV detection resolution of 200 kb for the maternal genome and identified 942 distinct CNVs; 328 occurred repeatedly. We defined them as multiple occurring variants (MOVs). We scrutinized the most common ones, compared them with frequencies in the gnomAD SVs v2.1, dbVar, and DGV population databases, and analyzed them with an emphasis on genomic content and potential association with specific phenotypes.