bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ΔNp63α promotes Bortezomib resistance via the CYGB–ROS axis in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Zhou Peng , Zhang Caiyun , Song Xianmin , Zhang Dadong , Zhu Minhui , Zheng Hongliang
Published: April 2022

Bortezomib, a proteasome inhibitor, proved potent in the treatment of recurrent multiple myeloma or mantle cell lymphoma. However, slow progress was made when it was applied to treat solid tumors. We discovered that different head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) cell lines had significantly different sensitivities to bortezomib, and also demonstrated that individual relatively sensitive HNSCC cell lines had fewer ΔNp63α expressions. Based on these findings, we speculated that ΔNp63α may be a key factor in the resistance of HNSCC cells to bortezomib. ΔNp63α knockdown made HNSCC more sensitive to bortezomib, while ΔNp63α overexpression made it more resistant. RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) analysis of ΔNp63α-knockdown cells revealed clear alterations in the subset of genes that were associated with oxidative stress and antioxidant defense. The gene CYGB was downregulated significantly. CHIP-seq detection showed that CYGB was the transcriptional regulatory site of ΔNp63α. CHIP-PCR showed evidence of ΔNp63α binding. The detection of the dual-luciferase reporter gene demonstrated that ΔNp63α significantly enhanced the CYGB promoter activity. Furthermore, we confirmed that CYGB plays a role in clearing excess ROS induced by bortezomib to inhibit HNSCC apoptosis. Consequently, ΔNp63α regulated the expression of CYGB in HNSCC. CYGB was the target of transcription regulation of ΔNp63α. It reduced apoptosis by clearing excess ROS produced by bortezomib, and thus exerted drug resistance.
Low-metastatic melanoma cells acquire enhanced metastatic capability via exosomal transfer of miR-199a-1-5p from highly metastatic melanoma cells
Authors: Zhao Qiting , Chen Hao , Li Xiaoshuang , Zeng Bin , Sun Zhiwei , Liu Doudou , Chen Yuting , Zhang Yuhan , Rosie Xing H. , Wang Jianyu
Published: April 2022

The mean survival of metastatic melanoma is less than 1 year. While the high mortality rate is associated with the efficient metastatic colonization of the involved organs, the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. The role of exosomes in facilitating the interactions between cancer cells and the metastatic microenvironment has received increasing attention. Previous studies on the role of exosomes in metastasis have been heavily focused on cancer cell-derived exosomes in modulating the functions of stromal cells. Whether the extravasated neighboring cancer cells at the distant organ can alter the metastatic properties of one another, a new mechanism of metastatic colonization, has not been demonstrated prior to this report. In this study, a paired M4 melanoma derivative cell lines, i.e., M14-OL and POL, that we established and characterized were employed. They exhibit high (POL cells) and low (OL cells) metastatic colonization efficiency in vivo, respectively. We show that exosomal crosstalk between metastatic cancer cells is a new mechanism that underlies cancer metastasis and heterogeneity. Low metastatic melanoma cells (OL) can acquire the “metastatic power” from highly metastatic melanoma cells (POL). POL achieves this goal by utilizing its exosomes to deliver functional miRNAs, such as miR-199a-1-5p, to the targeted OL cell which in turn inactivates cell cycle inhibitor CDKN1B and augments metastatic colonization.
HECTD3 promotes gastric cancer progression by mediating the polyubiquitination of c-MYC
Authors: Zhang Guanghui , Zhu Qingzong , Yan Xiaomin , Ci Mingxin , Zhao Erhu , Hou Jianbing , Wan Sicheng , Lü Muhan , Cui Hongjuan
Published: April 2022

The E3 ubiquitin ligase HECTD3 is homologous with the E6 related protein carboxyl terminus, which plays a vital role in biological modification, including immunoreactivity, drug resistance and apoptosis. Current research indicates that HECTD3 promotes the malignant proliferation of multiple tumors and increases drug tolerance. Our study primarily explored the important function and effects of HECTD3 in gastric cancer. Here, we discovered that HECTD3 is abnormally activated in gastric cancer, and the clinical prognosis database suggested that HECTD3 was strongly expressed in gastric cancer. Depletion of HECTD3 restrained the proliferative and clone abilities of cells and induced the apoptosis of gastric cancer cells. Mechanistically, our findings revealed that interaction between HECTD3 and c-MYC, and that the DOC domain of HECTD3 interacted with the CP and bHLHZ domains of c-MYC. Furthermore, we discovered that HECTD3 mediates K29-linked polyubiquitination of c-MYC. Then, our research indicated that cysteine mutation at amino acid 823 (ubiquitinase active site) of HECTD3 reduces the polyubiquitination of c-MYC. Our experimental results reveal that HECTD3 facilitates the malignant proliferation of gastric cancer by mediating K29 site-linked polyubiquitination of c-MYC. HECTD3 might become a curative marker.
Experimental evidence challenges the presumed defensive function of a “slow toxin” in cycads
Authors: Whitaker Melissa R. L. , Gilliéron Florence , Skirgaila Christina , Mescher Mark C. , De Moraes Consuelo M.
Published: April 2022

$$\beta$$
β
-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) is a neurotoxic non-protein amino acid found in the tissues of cycad plants. The demonstrated toxicity of BMAA to diverse organisms, including humans, is widely assumed to imply a defensive function of BMAA against herbivores; however, this hypothesis has not previously been tested in an ecologically relevant system. We investigated the effects of dietary BMAA, across a range of dosages matching and exceeding levels typically present in cycad leaves, on the feeding preferences and performance of a generalist lepidopteran herbivore (Spodoptera littoralis).We observed no effects of dietary BMAA on the survival or development of S. littoralis larvae, nor any larval preference between BMAA-laced and control diets. These findings suggest that BMAA in cycad tissues does not deter feeding by insect herbivores, raising questions about other potential physiological or ecological functions of this compound.
Stereotypical descriptions of computer science career interests are not representative of many computer scientists
Authors: McChesney Jenna E. , Behrend Tara S. , Glosenberg Alexander
Published: April 2022

Using responses from a large respondent-initiated online survey, we find that the career interests of many current and aspiring computer scientists in the United States diverge from a popular and official depiction of computer scientists’ interests used for career and workforce development worldwide. Distinct profiles of career interests emerged from the data. These profiles suggest that many women in the field value social and artistic expression in a way not currently recognized by established depictions of computer scientists’ interests. Better capturing the diversity of interests in computer science might help to boost women’s, and men’s, engagement in this STEM field.
Reliability based geometrically nonlinear bi-directional evolutionary structural optimization of elasto-plastic material
Authors: Habashneh Muayad , Movahedi Rad Majid
Published: April 2022

The aim of this paper is to integrate the reliability-based analysis into topology optimization problems. Consequently, reliability-based topology optimization (RBTO) of geometrically nonlinear elasto-plastic models is presented. For purpose of performing (RBTO), the volume fraction is considered reliable since that the application of (RBTO) gives different topology in comparison to the deterministic topology optimization. The effects of changing the prescribed total structural volume constraint for deterministic designs and changing the reliability index for probabilistic designs are considered. Reliability index works as a constraint which is related to reliability condition added into the volume fraction and it is calculated using the Monte-Carlo simulation approach in the case of probabilistic design. In addition, bi-directional evolutionary structural optimization (BESO) method is utilized to study the effect of geometrically nonlinear elasto-plastic design. The plastic behavior can be controlled by defining a limit on the plastic limit load multipliers. The suggested work's efficiency is demonstrated via a 2D benchmark problem. In case of elastic material, a 2D model of U-shape plate is used for probabilistic design of linear and geometrically nonlinear topology optimizations. Furthermore, a 2D elasto-plastic model is considered for reliability-based design to demonstrate that the suggested approach can determine the best topological solution.
On the spatial phase distribution of cutaneous low-frequency perfusion oscillations
Authors: Borik Stefan , Lyra Simon , Perlitz Volker , Keller Micha , Leonhardt Steffen , Blazek Vladimir
Published: April 2022

Distributed cutaneous tissue blood volume oscillations contain information on autonomic nervous system (ANS) regulation of cardiorespiratory activity as well as dominating thermoregulation. ANS associated with low-frequency oscillations can be quantified in terms of frequencies, amplitudes, and phase shifts. The relative order between these faculties may be disturbed by conditions colloquially termed ‘stress’. Photoplethysmography imaging, an optical non-invasive diagnostic technique provides information on cutaneous tissue perfusion in the temporal and spatial domains. Using the cold pressure test (CPT) in thirteen healthy volunteers as a well-studied experimental intervention, we present a method for evaluating phase shifts in low- and intermediate frequency bands in forehead cutaneous perfusion mapping. Phase shift changes were analysed in low- and intermediate frequency ranges from 0.05 Hz to 0.18 Hz. We observed that time waveforms increasingly desynchronised in various areas of the scanned area throughout measurements. An increase of IM band phase desynchronization observed throughout measurements was comparable in experimental and control group, suggesting a time effect possibly due to overshooting the optimal relaxation duration. CPT triggered an increase in the number of points phase-shifted to the reference that was specific to the low frequency range for phase-shift thresholds defined as π/4, 3π/8, and π/2 rad, respectively. Phase shifts in forehead blood oscillations may infer changes of vascular tone due to activity of various neural systems. We present an innovative method for the phase shift analysis of cutaneous tissue perfusion that appears promising to assess ANS change processes related to physical or psychological stress. More comprehensive studies are needed to further investigate the reliability and physiological significance of findings.
Bi incorporation and segregation in the MBE-grown GaAs-(Ga,Al)As-Ga(As,Bi) core–shell nanowires
Authors: Sadowski Janusz , Kaleta Anna , Kryvyi Serhii , Janaszko Dorota , Kurowska Bogusława , Bilska Marta , Wojciechowski Tomasz , Domagala Jarosław Z. , Sanchez Ana M. , Kret Sławomir
Published: April 2022

Incorporation of Bi into GaAs-(Ga,Al)As-Ga(As,Bi) core–shell nanowires grown by molecular beam epitaxy is studied with transmission electron microscopy. Nanowires are grown on GaAs(111)B substrates with Au-droplet assisted mode. Bi-doped shells are grown at low temperature (300 °C) with a close to stoichiometric Ga/As flux ratio. At low Bi fluxes, the Ga(As,Bi) shells are smooth, with Bi completely incorporated into the shells. Higher Bi fluxes (Bi/As flux ratio ~ 4%) led to partial segregation of Bi as droplets on the nanowires sidewalls, preferentially located at the nanowire segments with wurtzite structure. We demonstrate that such Bi droplets on the sidewalls act as catalysts for the growth of branches perpendicular to the GaAs trunks. Due to the tunability between zinc-blende and wurtzite polytypes by changing the nanowire growth conditions, this effect enables fabrication of branched nanowire architectures with branches generated from selected (wurtzite) nanowire segments.
Observations about utilitarian coherence in the avian compass
Authors: Smith Luke D. , Deviers Jean , Kattnig Daniel R.
Published: April 2022

It is hypothesised that the avian compass relies on spin dynamics in a recombining radical pair. Quantum coherence has been suggested as a resource to this process that nature may utilise to achieve increased compass sensitivity. To date, the true functional role of coherence in these natural systems has remained speculative, lacking insights from sufficiently complex models. Here, we investigate realistically large radical pair models with up to 21 nuclear spins, inspired by the putative magnetosensory protein cryptochrome. By varying relative radical orientations, we reveal correlations of several coherence measures with compass fidelity. Whilst electronic coherence is found to be an ineffective predictor of compass sensitivity, a robust correlation of compass sensitivity and a global coherence measure is established. The results demonstrate the importance of realistic models, and appropriate choice of coherence measure, in elucidating the quantum nature of the avian compass.
Continuous-time quantum walk based centrality testing on weighted graphs
Authors: Wang Yang , Xue Shichuan , Wu Junjie , Xu Ping
Published: April 2022

Centrality measure is an essential tool in network analysis and widely used in the domain of computer science, biology and sociology. Taking advantage of the speedup offered by quantum computation, various quantum centrality measures have been proposed. However, few work of quantum centrality involves weighted graphs, while the weight of edges should be considered in certain real-world networks. In this work, we extend the centrality measure based on continuous-time quantum walk to weighted graphs. We testify the feasibility and reliability of this quantum centrality using an ensemble of 41,675 graphs with various topologies and comparing with the eigenvector centrality measure. The average Vigna’s correlation index of all the tested graphs with all edge weights in [1, 10] is as high as 0.967, indicating the pretty good consistency of rankings by the continuous-time quantum walk centrality and the eigenvector centrality. The intuitive consistency of the top-ranked vertices given by this quantum centrality measure and classical centrality measures is also demonstrated on large-scale weighted graphs. Moreover, the range of the continuous-time quantum walk centrality values is much bigger than that of classical centralities, which exhibits better distinguishing ability to pick the important vertices from the ones with less importance. All these results show that the centrality measure based on continuous-time quantum walk still works well on weighted graphs.
Association between physical activity and insulin resistance using the homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance independent of waist circumference
Authors: Yoo Tae Kyung , Oh Byeong Kil , Lee Mi Yeon , Sung Ki-Chul
Published: April 2022

Only a few studies have evaluated the relationship between physical activity (PA) and Homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). Therefore, we aimed to analyze the association between HOMA-IR and PA. We included 280,194 Korean without diabetes who underwent health examinations. The short form of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire was completed. PA level was divided into sedentary, mild PA, and health-enhancing PA (HEPA). The HOMA-IR levels were calculated. Confounding factors including waist circumference were adjusted. The median follow-up duration was 4.13 years. A significant inverse relationship was observed between PA level and HOMA-IR (p < 0.001). Compared with the sedentary group, HOMA-IR was lower in the HEPA group (p < 0.001), even when HEPA group decreased PA level over time (p < 0.001). Mild PA (p < 0.001) or HEPA showed a lower risk of HOMA-IR progression (p < 0.001). Increasing PA or maintaining HEPA was significantly associated with a lower HOMA-IR (p < 0.001), HOMA-IR improvement (p < 0.001), and a lower risk of HOMA-IR progression (p < 0.001). Our findings support the inverse relationship between PA and HOMA-IR in a population without diabetes. PA might improve IR and prevent its progression among populations without diabetes, independent of the waist circumference.
The SARS-CoV-2 spike residues 616/644 and 1138/1169 delineate two antibody epitopes in COVID-19 mRNA COMIRNATY vaccine (Pfizer/BioNTech)
Authors: Andries Jessica , Viranaicken Wildriss , Cordonin Colette , Herrscher Charline , Planesse Cynthia , Roquebert Bénédicte , Lagrange-Xelot Marie , El-Kalamouni Chaker , Meilhac Olivier , Mavingui Patrick , Couret David , Gadea Gilles , Despres Philippe
Published: April 2022

The newly identified coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 is responsible for the worldwide pandemic COVID-19. Considerable efforts have been devoted for the development of effective vaccine strategies against COVID-19. The SARS-CoV-2 spike protein has been identified as the major antigen candidate for the development of COVID-19 vaccines. The Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine comirnaty is a lipid nanoparticle-encapsulated mRNA encoding a full-length and prefusion-stabilized SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. In the present study, synthetic peptide-based ELISA assays were performed to identify linear B-cell epitopes into the spike protein that contribute to elicitation of antibody response in comirnaty-vaccinated individuals. The synthetic S2P6 peptide containing the spike residues 1138/1169 and to a lesser extent, the synthetic S1P4 peptide containing the spike residues 616/644 were recognized by the immune sera from comirnaty vaccine recipients but not COVID-19 recovered patients. We assume that the synthetic S2P6 peptide and to a lesser extent the synthetic S1P4 peptide, could be of interest to measure the dynamic of antibody response to COVID-19 mRNA vaccines. The S2P6 peptide has been identified as immunogenic in adult BALB/c mice that received protein-peptide conjugates in a prime-boost schedule. This raises the question on the role of the B-cell epitope peptide containing the SARS-CoV-2 spike residues 1138/1169 in protective efficacy of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine comirnaty.
Influence of Chlorella vulgaris on growth, digestibility and gut morphology and microbiota of weaned piglet
Authors: Martins Cátia F. , Trevisi Paolo , Coelho Diogo F. , Correa Federico , Ribeiro David M. , Alfaia Cristina M. , Pinho Mário , Pestana José M. , Mourato Miguel P. , Almeida André M. , Fontes Carlos M. G. A. , Freire João P. B. , Prates José A. M.
Published: April 2022

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of Chlorella vulgaris (5% in the diet), supplemented or not with two exogenous carbohydrase mixtures on piglets’ performance, nutrient digestibility and gut morphology, fermentation products and microbiota. Forty-four male piglets weaned at 28 days of age, with 11.2 ± 0.46 kg of live weight, were used and assigned to 1 of 4 dietary treatments: cereal and soybean meal based-diet (control, n = 11), control diet with 5% of C. vulgaris (CH, n = 10), CH diet supplemented with 0.005% of Rovabio® Excel AP (CH + R, n = 10) and CH diet supplemented with 0.01% of a recombinant 4-carbohydrase mixture (CH + M, n = 11). Growth performance was not changed by the of C. vulgaris inclusion during 21 days of trial. However, total tract apparent digestibility of nutritional fractions was negatively impacted by the inclusion. In addition, the viscosity of duodenum plus jejunum contents slightly increased in all groups fed with the microalga. In contrast, dietary microalga increased duodenum villus height and promoted a healthier gut microbiota, with higher abundance of some specific bacterial taxa (Colidextribacter, Oscillospira and Lactobacillus). This study indicates that the dietary inclusion of 5% C. vulgaris improves piglets’ gut health without impairing performance. Data also indicate that C. vulgaris reduces nutrient digestibility but promotes compensatory developments of gut mucosa and prebiotic effects. Dietary supplementation with exogenous carbohydrases does not seem to be necessary for this inclusion level. Therefore, the incorporation of CH as a sustainable feed ingredient in piglets’ nutrition is a viable alternative approach.
A fluorinated macrocyclic organodisulfide cathode for lithium organic batteries
Authors: Pan Qianqian , Lan Jiaqi , Si Yubing , Guo Wei , Fu Yongzhu
Published: April 2022

A fluorinated macrocyclic organodisulfide is synthesized through a one-step oxidation of 2,5-difluorobenzene-1,4-dithiol in DMSO. It exhibits high discharge voltage plateaus, high rate capability, and ultralong cycle life in lithium cells.
How fluorescent labels affect the kinetics of the toehold-mediated DNA strand displacement reaction
Authors: Li Chengxu , Li Zhigang , Han Wenjie , Yin Xue , Liu Xiaoyu , Xiao Shiyan , Liang Haojun
Published: April 2022

End modification of the toehold domain or near to it using fluorophore dyes or quenchers can significantly modulate the kinetics of the toehold-mediated strand displacement reaction (TMSDR) by almost two orders of magnitude.
A molecular motor from lignocellulose
Authors: Freese Thomas , Fridrich Bálint , Crespi Stefano , Lubbe Anouk S. , Barta Katalin , Feringa Ben L.
Published: April 2022

This work covers the development of a bio-based molecular motor in an overall yield of 10% when accessed through the lignin content of beech sawdust. Its unidirectional, continuous motion at room temperature is key for potential applications.
High-efficiency radon adsorption by nickel nanoparticles supported on activated carbon
Authors: Deng Xiangyuan , Yu Bo , Wu Haibiao , He Zhengzhong , Wang Meng , Xiao Detao
Published: April 2022

Nickel nanoparticles supported on AC (Ni/AC) composites, combining abundant micropores with open metal sites, are rationally designed for adsorbing Rn.
A flexible tissue–carbon nanocoil–carbon nanotube-based humidity sensor with high performance and durability
Authors: Li Chengwei , Zhang Yifeng , Yang Shuaitao , Zhao Huitong , Guo Yuan , Cong Tianze , Huang Hui , Fan Zeng , Liang Hongwei , Pan Lujun
Published: April 2022

A flexible humidity sensor based on a tissue–carbon nanocoil–carbon nanotube composite has been investigated. The sensor combines wide range, high sensitivity, fast response, high resolution, robust durability and wide application potential.
Tandem [5 + 1]/[8 + 2] cycloaddition reactions involving phosphiranes and tropones: facile access to 6,5,7-fused tricyclic skeletons
Authors: Cui Mingyue , Li Juan , Tian Rongqiang , Duan Zheng
Published: April 2022

Tandem [5 + 1] carbonyl cyclization/[8 + 2] cycloaddition reactions of phosphiranes and tropones were developed as a straightforward method to access 6,5,7-fused tricyclic scaffolds.
The presolvation strategy of Li2S cathodes for lithium–sulfur batteries: a review
Authors: Xiang Jianglu , Zhao Yuwei , Wang Lin , Zha Chenyang
Published: April 2022

The presolvation Li2S is one of the central and promising strategies for the high performance of lithium–sulfur batteries.
Donor–acceptor covalent organic framework hollow submicrospheres with a hierarchical pore structure for visible-light-driven H2 evolution
Authors: Yu Haiping , Zhang Jianze , Yan Xiaorong , Wu Chuanguang , Zhu Xiaoran , Li Bowen , Li Tengfei , Guo Qiuquan , Gao Jiefeng , Hu Mingjun , Yang Jun
Published: April 2022

A novel donor–acceptor covalent organic framework PETZ–COF with hierarchical pore structure was synthesized, and showed a high photocatalytic H2 evolution performance. The structure–function relationship was proved by experiments and calculations.
Resilient energy management incorporating energy storage system and network reconfiguration: A framework of cyber‐physical system
Authors: Jalilpoor Kamran , Ameli Mohammad Taghi , Azad Sasan , Sayadi Zahra
Published: April 2022

Due to increasing the intricacies of cyber‐physical systems (CPSs) and the severity of natural phenomena, upgrading network planning is vital to reduce the vulnerability of these systems. This study develops a novel preventive‐corrective resilient energy management strategy (PC‐REMS) for a CPS in two stages, exploiting the network reconfiguration (NR) and energy storage systems (ESSs) capacity. The first stage of the proposed PC‐REMS follows preventive actions based on contingency faults. In contrast, the second stage applies corrective measures for improving the CPS resilience to cope with natural physical disasters. Vulnerability assessment data is sent to the physical power system daily through the communication network. The first stage of preparing the CPS for predictable faults focuses on pre‐scheduled ESSs and preventive NR to minimise the expected energy curtailment cost. The second stage involves the network recovery in real‐time through corrective NR to minimise energy curtailment cost after the faults. Three resistance, recovery, and resilience indices are introduced for evaluating the effectiveness of the model. The proposed model is examined by performing multiple simulations on the 33 and 118‐bus radial test systems. The simulation results show the efficiency of the proposed PC‐REMS model in dealing with predictable disasters to improve the CPS resilience.
A Monte Carlo simulator to investigate cell‐to‐cell deviation in a grid‐tied battery pack
Authors: Wang Zeyuan , Wang Zhuo , Davidson Jonathan , Foster Martin , Gladwin Daniel
Published: April 2022

Battery energy storage systems (BESSs) are commonly used in smart grids. Voltage deviation or imbalance among cells generally exists in multi‐cell battery packs. This work presents a study of the voltage deviation‐related phenomena observed during the operation of a grid‐tied BESS, Willenhall Energy Storage System (WESS), including the voltage deviation changes during full range cycle and the cut‐off mechanism activated by it. Electroimpedance spectroscopy measurements and equivalent circuit modelling were conducted on the same type of cell as that used in WESS to obtain cell‐equivalent circuit parameter distributions (the standard deviation and mean). Cell voltage deviation in a WESS‐sized battery pack (> 21k cells) was studied using Monte Carlo simulation through a proposed cell level battery simulator. Both experiments and simulations reveal that high cell voltage deviation emerges at the low and high state‐of‐charge zones where the cell internal resistance has a large value and large extent of deviation.
Blockchain based energy trading in ADN with its probable impact on aggregated load profile, available distribution capability and loadability margin
Authors: Shukla Devesh , Singh Shailendra , Singh Satyendra Pratap , Thakur Amit Kumar , Singh Shiv Pujan
Published: April 2022

Power grids monitoring, operation, control, and commercialisation are transforming gradually due to technological advancements, and new frontiers of distinct applications are emerging in this field. Global emphasis on increasing the dependence on renewable sources of generation and the introduction of electric vehicles as means of transformation can potentially affect the traditional notion of grid analysis, monitoring, and control. The prevalence of communicable intelligent devices enables peers to transact and sell/buy power locally or to the grid. Ensuring security, privacy, and avoidance of double‐spending in these transactions could be manifested by utilising the developments in blockchain technologies. In this paper, modified IEEE 123 bus distribution system has been considered. The effect of incorporating the energy transactions over block‐chain in ADN on Available Distribution Capability, aggregated load profile, and load‐ability is evaluated. The effect has been quantified using blockchain efficiency factor proposed in this article. It has been observed that enabling intelligent electronic devices peers to transact over blockchain can improve the performance of the ADN.
A novel wearable free‐wideband antenna circularly polarized suited for biotelemetric devices with multiple‐input multiple‐output and high data rate capacity
Authors: Laxman Pillalamarri , Jain Anuj
Published: April 2022

A small circularly polarized multiple‐input multiple‐output (MIMO) antenna is demonstrated here as a biometric gadget for consumers. In this article, the authors introduce a structure for antennas that consists of four essential parts that are orthogonally arranged opposite each other. The transmitted signal has around 10 db wideband response at 2.22 GHz, referred to as fractional band‐widths (FBW) which is 91.08 achieved when operated in free space. Also included is a 10‐db transmitter with a 2.44‐GHz band‐width, a FBW of 92.56%, and it can be used on wearables on human bodies. The authors have therefore calculated frequency ranges that cover the most important and unlicensed free of cost open‐source band‐width of 2.4 to 2.48 GHz that is also known as ISM band (industrial, scientific, and medical) range. When operated in free space and in human body proximity of 5 MM, the antenna also operates at 1.3 GHz, which is approximately 54.16% fractional band‐width, as well as 1.04 GHz, which is approximately 43.33% fractional band‐width. An antenna that is finalized in free‐space (or within 5 mm of a human body) has an optimum envelop correlation coefficient (ECC) beneath 0.22 (0.24), and an optimal gain of about 3 dB.
A hybrid machine learning-optimization approach to pricing and train formation problem under demand uncertainty
Authors: Yousefi Atiye , Pishvaee Mir Saman
Published: April 2022

Due to the complexity of pricing in the service industry, it is important to provide an efficient pricing framework for real-life and large-sized applications. To this end, we combined an optimization approach with a regression-based machine learning method to provide a reliable and efficient framework for integrated pricing and train formation problem under hybrid uncertainty. To do so, firstly, a regression-based machine learning model is applied to forecast the ticket price of the passenger railway, and then, the obtained price in is used as the input of a train formation optimization model. Further, in order to deal with the hybrid uncertainty of demand parameters, a robust fuzzy stochastic programming model is proposed. Finally, a real transportation network from the Iran railway is applied to demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed model. The analysis of numerical results indicated that the proposed framework is able to state the optimal price with less complexity in comparison to traditional models.
Sesquiterpene Lactones with Astrodaucane Skeleton from Astrodaucus orientalis
Authors: Hashempour Hossein , Herfati Farshid , Valizadeh Hassan , Mahmoudi-Kordi Fatemeh , Ebrahimi Samad Nejad , Hamburger Matthias , Farimani Mahdi Moridi
Published: April 2022

Four sesquiterpene lactones, astrodaucanolide A – D (1–4) with unique structures, toghether with two known phenylpropanoid esters (5 and 6) were isolated
from a flower extract of Astrodaucus orientalis. The structures were established by 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy and high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRESIMS), and the
absolute configuration of 1–4 was determined by electronic circular dichroism (ECD). Compounds 1–4 novel architecture represents a new class of
sesquiterpenes with new skeleton. A putative biosynthetic pathway for their scaffold is proposed with a germacryl cation as the precursor. The suggested biosynthesis pathway is
similar to that of eudesmane sesquiterpenes with a different direction of protonation which then leads to the new skeleton, named astrodaucane by the 1,2-methyl migration.
Predicting neuromuscular control patterns that minimize ACL forces during injury‐prone jump‐landing manoeuvres in downhill skiing using a musculoskeletal simulation model
Authors: Heinrich Dieter , van den Bogert Antonie J. , Nachbauer Werner
Published: April 2022

Competitive skiers encounter a high risk of sustaining an ACL injury during jump‐landing in downhill ski racing. Facing an injury‐prone landing manoeuvre, there is a lack of knowledge regarding optimum control strategies. So, the purpose of the present study was to investigate possible neuromuscular control patterns to avoid injury during injury‐prone jump‐landing manoeuvres. A computational approach was used to generate a series of 190 injury‐prone jump‐landing manoeuvres based on a 25‐degree‐of‐freedom sagittal plane musculoskeletal skier model. Using a dynamic optimization framework, each injury‐prone landing manoeuvre was resolved to identify muscle activation patterns of the lower limbs and corresponding kinematic changes that reduce peak ACL force. In the 190 injury‐prone jump‐landing simulations, ACL forces peaked during the first 50 ms after ground contact. Optimized muscle activation patterns, that reduced peak ACL forces, showed increased activation of the monoarticular hip flexors, ankle dorsi‐ and plantar flexors as well as hamstrings prior to or during the early impact phase (<50 ms). The corresponding kinematic changes were characterized by increased hip and knee flexion and less backward lean of the skier at initial ground contact and the following impact phase. Injury prevention strategies should focus on increased activation of the monoarticular hip flexors, ankle plantar flexors and rapid and increased activation of the hamstrings in combination with a flexed landing position and decreased backward lean to reduce ACL injury risk during the early impact phase (<50 ms) of jump landing.

Highlights

First study investigating advantageous control strategies during injury‐prone jump‐landing manoeuvres in downhill skiing using a musculoskeletal simulation model and dynamic optimization framework.

The simulation results predicted high injury risk during the first 50 ms after initial ground contact.

Optimized neuromuscular control patterns showed adapted activation patterns (timing and amplitude) of muscles crossing the knee as well as the hip and ankle joints prior to and after initial ground contact, respectively.

An optimized control strategy during an injury‐prone landing manoeuvre was characterized kinematically by increasing hip and knee flexion and less backward lean of the skier at initial ground contact and the following impact phase.
Utilization of Free Soft Tissue Grafts in Otoplasty: A Simple Yet Effective Way to Avoid Suture Extrusion
Authors: Alzayadneh Islam , Glikson Eran , Shapiro Jordan , Rival Ella , Solomon Zachary , Solomon Philip
Published: April 2022

Background

Prominent ear deformity occurs in 5% of the general population and has been treated by otoplasty for many years to address the psychosocial challenges of having such a deformity. There is extensive literature but no consensus on the best method to address potential surgical complications, including suture extrusion.

Objectives

The aim of this article was to describe a surgical technique designed to reduce suture extrusion following otoplasty surgery by placing free soft tissue grafts between Mustardé sutures and postauricular skin.

Methods

Two hundred and eleven patients who underwent otoplasties with soft tissue grafts between January 2017 and January 2020 were included in this study. All surgeries were performed by 2 facial plastic surgeons with more than 20 years of experience each, practicing in Toronto, Canada. Patients were followed up to assess for suture extrusion between 12 and 36 months (median, 21 months) postoperatively. The rates of suture complications and extrusion were compared with those previously reported in the literature.

Results

Only 2 patients out of 211 (0.47%) had unilateral suture extrusion and were treated with suture removal. This is dramatically lower than the upper values reported in the literature, which average 5.55% (range, 0%-22.2%).

Conclusions

A soft tissue graft separating the Mustardé sutures and postauricular skin acts as a barrier, and can be used in conjunction with traditional surgical techniques. By adding this graft in the proposed manner, there is additional tissue reinforcing the suture repair, thereby reducing the rates of suture complications and extrusion without increasing the operative time.

Level of Evidence: 4
Role of solar power in shifting the Turkish electricity sector towards sustainability
Authors: Kursun Berrin
Published: April 2022

This work covers a three-stage evaluation: cradle-to-grave life-cycle assessment (LCA) of polycrystalline silicon (pc-Si) and monocrystalline silicon (mc-Si) solar photovoltaics (PVs) as on-grid utility-scale energy options; environmental-impact distribution of pc-Si and mc-Si combinations under local conditions in Turkey; and assessment of the role of solar power in improving the environmental performance of the Turkish electricity mix. In LCA, mc-Si panels are found to have 4.47–9.16% higher environmental impacts than pc-Si panels in absolute terms. However, the higher efficiency and slower degradation rate of mc-Si panels make them have lower impacts on a kWh electricity basis. For the solar PV combination, the global-warming potential (GWP) and human-toxicity potential (HTP) results are found to be significantly lower than that of home-scale pc-Si systems (27.1–34.4 g versus 33.7–59.9 g CO2 equivalent (eq)/kWh 30.6–38.9 g versus 65.9–117 g 1–4 dichlorobenzene (g 1–4 DB) eq/kWh) operating in Turkey due to the higher capacity and efficiency of the utility-scale system. This result reveals the advantage of utilizing solar power as a centralized energy option for the country. All of the eight impacts that we evaluated reduce increasingly with increasing solar percentage in the electricity mix. The general tendency is that each percentage increase in solar electricity in the mix reduces each impact by ~1.0%. With a conservative assumption, if the solar power ratio in the mix increases to 15% by 2030, a GWP reduction of 31.3 million tons can be achieved. This corresponds to 12.7% of the greenhouse-gas mitigation commitment (246 million tons CO2 eq) made by Turkey under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. With the Turkish electricity sector being dominated by imported coal and natural gas, the obtained results reveal the potential of solar power in improving the environmental performance of the electricity mix in Turkey.
Spontaneous Clearance of Vertically Acquired Hepatitis C Infection: Implications for Testing and Treatment
Authors: Ades A E , Gordon Fabiana , Scott Karen , Collins Intira Jeannie , Thorne Claire , Pembrey Lucy , Chappell Elizabeth , Mariné-Barjoan Eugènia , Butler Karina , Indolfi Giuseppe , Gibb Diana M , Judd Ali
Published: April 2022

Background

Current guidelines recommend that infants born to women with hepatitis C virus (HCV) viremia be screened for HCV antibody at age 18 months and, if positive, referred for RNA testing at 3 years to confirm chronic infection. This policy is based, in part, on analyses that suggest that 25%–40% of vertically acquired HCV infections clear spontaneously within 4–5 years.

Methods

Data on 179 infants with HCV RNA and/or anti-HCV evidence of vertically acquired infection in 3 prospective European cohorts were investigated. Ages at clearance of infection were estimated taking account of interval censoring and delayed entry. We also investigated clearance in initially HCV RNA–negative infants in whom RNA was not detectable until after 6 weeks.

Results

Clearance rates were initially high then declined slowly. Apparently, many infections clear before they can be confirmed. An estimated 65.9% (95% credible interval [CrI], 50.1–81.6) of confirmed infections cleared by 5 years, at a median 12.4 (CrI, 7.1–18.9) months. If treatment were to begin at age 6 months, 18 months, or 3 years, at least 59.0% (CrI, 42.0–76.9), 39.7% (CrI, 17.9–65.9), and 20.9% (CrI, 4.6–44.8) of those treated would clear without treatment. In 7 (6.6%) confirmed infections, RNA was not detectable until after 6 weeks and not until after 6 months in 2 (1.9%). However, all such cases subsequently cleared.

Conclusions

Most confirmed infection cleared by age 3 years. Treatment before age 3, if it was available, would avoid loss to follow-up but would result in substantial overtreatment.
Reliability Assessment of Combined Hardware–Software Non-repairable Time-Critical Systems
Authors: Verma Anjushi , Gayen Tirthankar
Published: April 2022

Although there exist various reliability assessment models, many of these models did not consider the temporal incorrectness, incompatibilities and dependencies between hardware and software. Also, many models did not consider the hardware changes, software changes and hardware changes leading to software changes resulting in system failure. Thus, an approach that considers various aspects like pure software failures, pure hardware failures, software change, hardware change, hardware change leading to software change and incompatibility issues between hardware and software components (in the presence of temporal incorrectness) leading to the failure of non-repairable time-critical heterogeneous software systems has been developed. This approach considers the operation of the hardware–software system, both in normal (non-degraded) and degraded modes. The proposed approach was applied to a time-critical stepper motor system, results were obtained and a case study was performed. The effectiveness of the proposed approach has been analyzed by comparing the results obtained from the proposed approach with the results obtained from the other existing approaches.
Improving the Performance of Feature Selection Methods with Low-Sample-Size Data
Authors: Zheng Wanwan , Jin Mingzhe
Published: April 2022

Feature selection refers to a critical preprocessing of machine learning to remove irrelevant and redundant data. According to feature selection methods, sufficient samples are usually required to select a reliable feature subset, especially considering the presence of outliers. However, sufficient samples cannot always be ensured in several real-world applications (e.g. neuroscience, bioinformatics and psychology). This study proposed a method to improve the performance of feature selection methods with ultra low-sample-size data, which is named feature selection based on data quality and variable training samples (QVT). Given that none of feature selection methods can perform optimally in all scenarios, QVT is primarily characterized by its versatility, because it can be implemented in any feature selection method. Furthermore, compared to the existing methods which tried to extract a stable feature subset for low-sample-size data by increasing the sample size or using more complicated algorithm, QVT tried to get improvement using the original data. An experiment was performed using 20 benchmark datasets, three feature selection methods and three classifiers to verify the feasibility of QVT; the results showed that using features selected by QVT is capable of achieving higher classification accuracy than using the explicit feature selection method, and significant differences exist.
Salivary biomarkers and esophageal disorders
Authors: Patel Vandan , Ma Steven , Yadlapati Rena
Published: April 2022

Saliva is a complex physiologic fluid that contains an abundance of biological analytes, or biomarkers. Recent research has shown that these biomarkers may be able to convey the physiologic health of a person. Work has been done linking derangements in these salivary biomarkers to a wide variety of pathologic disorders ranging from oncologic diseases to atopic conditions. The specific area of interest for this review paper is esophageal disorders. Particularly because the diagnosis and management of esophageal disorders often includes invasive testing such as esophagogastroduodenoscopy, prolonged pH monitoring, and biopsy. The aim of this review will be to explore salivary biomarkers (pepsin, bile, epidermal growth factor, and micro-RNA) that are being studied as they relate specifically to esophageal disorders. Finally, it will explore the benefits of salivary testing and identify areas of possible future research.
Early volume loss of skeletal muscle after esophagectomy: a risk for late-onset postoperative pneumonia
Authors: Nishimura Koudai , Miyata Kazushi , Fukaya Masahide , Yokoyama Yukihiro , Uehara Kay , Yamaguchi Junpei , Mizuno Takashi , Onoe Shunsuke , Ogura Atsushi , Ebata Tomoki
Published: April 2022

Late-onset postoperative pneumonia (LOPP) after esophagectomy is poorly understood. This study was designed to clarify the features and risk factors for this event. Patients who underwent esophagectomy for esophageal cancer between 2006 and 2016 were included. LOPP was defined as radiologically proven pneumonia that occurred over 3 months after surgery, and clinically relevant late-onset postoperative pneumonia (CR-LOPP) was defined as LOPP that required administration of oxygen and antibiotics in the hospital and/or more intensive treatment. The total psoas muscle area (TPA) was measured using preoperative and postoperative (at 3 months after surgery) computed tomography scan images. Potential risk factors for CR-LOPP were investigated. Among 175 study patients, 46 (26.3%) had LOPP, 29 (16.6%) of whom exhibited CR-LOPP with a cumulative incidence of 15.6% at 3 years and 22.4% at 5 years. Four (13.8%) of these patients died of LOPP. Univariable analysis showed that clinical stage ≥III (P = 0.005), preoperative prognostic nutritional index (PNI) <45 (P = 0.035), arrhythmia (P = 0.014), postoperative hospital stay ≥40 days (P = 0.003), and percent decrease of TPA more than 5% (P < 0.001) were associated with CR-LOPP but not early onset postoperative pneumonia. Multivariable analysis revealed that clinical stage ≥III (hazard ratio [HR] 3.01, P = 0.004), postoperative hospital stay ≥40 days (HR 2.51, P = 0.015), and percent decrease of TPA >5% (HR 9.93, P < 0.001) were independent risk factors for CR-LOPP. CR-LOPP occurred in over 20% of patients at 5 years, and early postoperative loss of TPA was a potential trigger for this delayed complication.
Meat Intake Is Associated with a Higher Risk of Ulcerative Colitis in a Large European Prospective Cohort Studyø
Authors: Dong Catherine , Chan Simon S M , Jantchou Prevost , Racine Antoine , Oldenburg Bas , Weiderpass Elisabete , Heath Alicia K , Tong Tammy Y N , Tjønneland Anne , Kyrø Cecilie , Bueno de Mesquita Bas , Kaaks Rudolf , Katzke Verena A , Bergman Manuela M , Boeing Heiner , Palli Domenico , Masala Giovanna , Tumino Rosario , Sacerdote Carlotta , Colorado-Yohar Sandra M , Sánchez Maria-Jose , Grip Olof , Lindgren Stefan , Luben Robert , Huybrechts Inge , Gunter Marc J , Mahamat-Saleh Yahya , Boutron-Ruault Marie-Christine , Carbonnel Franck
Published: April 2022

Background and Aims

We aimed to investigate the association between protein intake and risk of inflammatory bowel disease [IBD] in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition.

Methods

A total of 413 593 participants from eight European countries were included. Dietary data were collected at baseline from validated food frequency questionnaires. Dietary data were calibrated to correct errors in measures related to each country-specific questionnaire. Associations between proteins [total, animal, and vegetable] or food sources of animal proteins, and IBD risk were estimated by Cox proportional hazard models.

Results

After a mean follow-up of 16 years, 177 patients with Crohn’s disease [CD] and 418 with ulcerative colitis [UC], were identified. There was no association between total protein, animal protein, or vegetable protein intakes and CD or UC risks. Total meat and red meat intakes were associated with UC risk (hazard ratio [HR] for the 4th vs 1st quartile = 1.40, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.99-1.98, p-trend = 0.01; and 1.61, 95% CI = 1.10-2.36, p-trend = 0.007, respectively]. There was no association between other food sources of animal protein [processed meat, fish, shellfish, eggs, poultry] and UC. We found no association between food sources of animal proteins and CD risk.

Conclusions

Meat and red meat consumptions are associated with higher risks of UC. These results support dietary counselling of low meat intake in people at high-risk of IBD.