bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring and Understanding Law Enforcement’s Relationship with Technology: A Qualitative Interview Study of Police Officers in North Carolina
Authors: Dempsey Ronald P. , Brunet James R. , Dubljević Veljko
Published: March 2023

Integrating artificial intelligence (AI) technologies into law enforcement has become a concern of contemporary politics and public discourse. In this paper, we qualitatively examine the perspectives of AI technologies based on 20 semi-structured interviews of law enforcement professionals in North Carolina. We investigate how integrating AI technologies, such as predictive policing and autonomous vehicle (AV) technology, impacts the relationships between communities and police jurisdictions. The evidence suggests that police officers maintain that AI plays a limited role in policing but believe the technologies will continue to expand, improving public safety and increasing policing capability. Conversely, police officers believe that AI will not necessarily increase trust between police and the community, citing ethical concerns and the potential to infringe on civil rights. It is thus argued that the trends toward integrating AI technologies into law enforcement are not without risk. Policymaking guided by public consensus and collaborative discussion with law enforcement professionals must aim to promote accountability through the application of responsible design of AI in policing with an end state of providing societal benefits and mitigating harm to the populace. Society has a moral obligation to mitigate the detrimental consequences of fully integrating AI technologies into law enforcement.
The Effect of Drying–Wetting Cycles on Soil Inorganic Nitrogen Transformation in Drip-Irrigated Cotton Field Soil in Northwestern China
Authors: Ma Honghong , Yang Zhiying , Pu Shenghai , Ma Xingwang
Published: March 2023

Drip irrigation under plastic mulch is widely used and leads to periodic drying–rewetting (DW) cycles in Xinjiang, Northwest China. However, the effect of different wet and dry alternation types on soil inorganic nitrogen transformation is not clear. Studying these issues not only provides reference for the formulation of fertilization and irrigation systems but is also of great significance for reducing non-point source pollution. An incubation experiment was conducted in 2018 in Baotou Lake farm in Korla City, Xinjiang, with drip-irrigated cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.). The treatments were designed comprising three parts: (1) DW intensity (Q100, Q90, Q80, Q70, Q60); (2) DW frequency (P3d, P5d, P7d, P9d, P11d); and (3) soil wetting time (P1m, P3m, P5m). The results revealed that the contents of the NH4+ and NO3− decreased with the increase in the DW intensity and were highest in the Q100 treatment. The rate of net N mineralization decreased with the increase in the DW intensity. The highest rate (7.02 mg kg−1 d−1) was found in the Q70 treatment in the wet to dry process and 3.03 mg kg−1 d−1 in the Q60 treatment in the dry to wet process, respectively. The contents of the NH4+ and NO3− were higher with the higher DW frequency (P3d). The rate of net N mineralization decreased with the increase in the DW frequency and was highest in the P3d treatment in the wet to dry process and the P5d treatment in the dry to wet process, respectively. The soil wetting time was longer with the content of NH4+, NO3−, and N mineralization (P5m). The rate of net N mineralization was higher with the longer soil wetting time in the wet to dry process and the shorter soil wetting time from the dry to wet process. These results demonstrate that a reasonable DW intensity, DW frequency, and soil wetting time could not only effectively promote nitrogen transformation and the absorption of nitrogen but also reduce the nitrogen losses under drip irrigation.
Theoretical Prediction of Impact Force Acting on Derailment Containment Provisions (DCPs)
Authors: Song In-Ho , Koo Jeong-Seo , Shim Jae-Seok , Bae Hyun-Ung , Lim Nam-Hyoung
Published: March 2023

This study proposes a theoretical method to estimate the impact force of Derailment Containment Provisions (DCPs) for the prevention of secondary collisions in the event of a train derailment. By comparing the impact forces estimated using the commonly used Olson model and dynamic simulations, the study identifies significant differences in average and maximum impact forces. The study shows that these differences arise due to the mass effects of vehicle bodies transmitted to the DCP during a collision. To address this issue, the impact force of the Olson model was modified by considering the stiffness of suspensions between masses as a simplified spring–mass model. The modified impact force was verified through impact simulations using the KTX model on curved tracks with various radii. The results show that the modified Olson model provides a reasonable estimate of the impact force, with differences of less than 8% observed under all simulation conditions. This study provides a valuable contribution to the design and analysis methodology for DCPs, improving their effectiveness in preventing secondary collisions and enhancing railway safety.
Personalization in Digital Ecomuseums: The Case of Pros-Eleusis
Authors: Vrettakis Ektor , Katifori Akrivi , Kyriakidi Marialena , Koukouli Myrto , Boile Maria , Glenis Apostolos , Petousi Dimitra , Vayanou Maria , Ioannidis Yannis
Published: March 2023

In comparison with a traditional museum, an “ecomuseum” is radically different: It is not housed in a building and does not have a collection of physical objects or artifacts. It aims to help visitors discover the tangible and intangible cultural heritage of a region through the identification of important points of interest (POIs), while offering a variety of activities and direct engagement with the region’s cultural identity. The diversity and amount of information that may be available through digital means highlight the need for supporting the visitor in selecting which POIs to visit by offering personalized content. In this paper, we present our approach for a recommendation system for an ecomuseum, through its application in the city of Eleusis, Greece. We present the approach from needs to implementation, as well as the results of a preliminary evaluation, showing promising results for its application as an engaging visitor experience for an ecomuseum. We conclude the paper with a wider discussion about personalization in this context and in a cultural heritage context in general.
A Computer Vision-Based Application for the Assessment of Head Posture: A Validation and Reliability Study
Authors: Carrasco-Uribarren Andoni , Marimon Xavier , Dantony Flora , Cabanillas-Barea Sara , Portela Alejandro , Ceballos-Laita Luis , Massip-Álvarez Albert
Published: March 2023

As its name implies, the forward head position (FHP) is when the head is further forward of the trunk than normal. This can cause neck and shoulder tension, as well as headaches. The craniovertebral angle (CVA) measured with 2D systems such as Kinovea software is often used to assess the FHP. Computer vision applications have proven to be reliable in different areas of daily life. The aim of this study is to analyze the test-retest and inter-rater reliability and the concurrent validity of a smartphone application based on computer vision for the measurement of the CVA. Methods: The CVAs of fourteen healthy volunteers, fourteen neck pain patients, and fourteen tension-type headache patients were assessed. The assessment was carried out twice, with a week of rest between sessions. Each examiner took a lateral photo in a standing position with the smartphone app based on computer vision. The test-retest reliability was calculated with the assessment of the CVA measured by the smartphone application, and the inter-rater reliability was also calculated. A third examiner assessed the CVA using 2D Kinovea software to calculate its concurrent validity. Results: The CVA in healthy volunteers was 54.65 (7.00); in patients with neck pain, 57.67 (5.72); and in patients with tension-type headaches, 54.63 (6.48). The test-retest reliability was excellent, showing an Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) of 0.92 (0.86–0.95) for the whole sample. The inter-rater reliability was excellent, with an ICC of 0.91 (0.84–0.95) for the whole sample. The standard error of the measurement with the app was stated as 1.83°, and the minimum detectable change was stated as 5.07°. The concurrent validity was high: r = 0.94, p < 0.001. Conclusion: The computer-based smartphone app showed excellent test-retest and inter-rater reliability and strong concurrent validity compared to Kinovea software for the measurement of CVA.
Algorithm for Retrieval of Temperature in Mesosphere and Lower Thermosphere from O2 A-Band Night Glow
Authors: Wang Weijia , Luo Haiyan , Li Zhiwei , Xiong Wei
Published: March 2023

The O2 A-band night glow can be used to retrieve the temperature in the range of 80–120 km in the mesosphere and lower thermosphere (MLT). From the full spectrum of A-band night glow, the band used to retrieve temperature is selected based on the sensitivity of the emission line on temperature, taking into account the compromise relationship between the spectral band and resolution, inversion efficiency, and inversion accuracy. The non-linear iterative inversion method based on optimization theory is adopted for the retrieval of temperature. Meanwhile, considering the stability of inversion, Tikhonov regularization matrix is added as a constraint, and the optimal estimation inversion algorithm is optimized to suppress the influence of measurement noise on results. Through the recovering simulated noisy spectra from an interferometer, the temperature profile with vertical resolution better than 2 km and an average accuracy better than 2 K is obtained by the optimized inversion method in this paper. In addition, the influence of a priori constraints on the inversion accuracy is studied, and a priori accuracy limits the inversion accuracy. When a priori accuracy is controlled within ±5 K, the average temperature inversion accuracy can be optimized to 1.35 K, which is better than the accuracy of OSIRIS on Odin at 90–105 km.
Information and Communication Technologies and Agricultural Production: New Evidence from Africa
Authors: Onyeneke Robert Ugochukwu , Ankrah Daniel Adu , Atta-Ankomah Richmond , Agyarko Fred Fosu , Onyeneke Chinenye Judith , Nejad Jalil Ghassemi
Published: March 2023

While information and communication technologies (ICT) have proven to be useful in boosting agricultural production and productivity, regardless of the geographical location, much of the discussion on ICT and their impact focus on the global north, with deficient literature on the global south. The limited account of the global south shows mixed conclusions on the impact of information and communication technologies on agricultural production, with most studies focusing on crop production, as a proxy for agricultural production, leaving out livestock production. Animated by this concern, this article explores the impact of ICTs on agricultural production (crop and livestock) in Africa using panel data from 32 African countries and the panel autoregressive distributed lag model as the estimation technique. We find that individuals using internet significantly increased crop production in the long run. Specifically, a percentage increase in internet patronage increases crop production by 0.071% but significantly decreases the livestock production index, both in the short and long run. Mobile phone subscriptions had a significant negative impact on crop production in the long run but had a significant positive impact on livestock production in the long run. Fixed phone subscriptions significantly increased crop production in the long run but significantly decreased livestock production index in the long run. The findings show bidirectional causality between crop production and internet patronage, livestock production and individuals using internet, crop production and mobile cellular subscription, crop production and net national income, and rural population and both crop and livestock production. We recommend that governments in Africa increase funding investment in digital technologies to foster increased agricultural production while addressing structural challenges that constrain increased access to digital agricultural technologies. It might be useful if governments in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) incentivize the telecommunication companies to extend digital coverage to rural areas through tax rebates and holidays to encourage rural inclusion in the digital space to bridge the digital divide.
Analysis of the Influence of the Angular Position of the Cleat in Kinematics and Kinetics
Authors: Sola-Lopez Javier , Castillo-López José Manuel , Panera-Rico Enrique , Reina-Bueno María , Fernández-Seguín Lourdes María , Ramos-Ortega Javier
Published: March 2023

Objective: The aims that we set in this study were to analyse the kinematic and kinetic changes in the lower limbs of cyclists when using the utility model, nº of publication ES 1078023, which consists of a system of cleats with an exact omnidirectional adjustment and without oscillations between the shoe and the pedal. Methods: This is a quasi-experimental, longitudinal and prospective study with a non-randomized sampling. The sample was made up of 34 cyclists. The variables studies focused on the kinematics of each joint of the lower limb in three planes and the kinetics in the function of the angular position of the cleat. They had the Bioval® system put in place, through which the kinematic parameters were recorded at the points marked on the lower limb for 20 s. Three systems were used for the kinetics (Power Tap, Rotor and Pioneer), recording the power developed for 1 min for each of the study situations. Results: Regarding the kinematic variables, statistically significant differences were found for the three planes in all of the structures studied. As for the kinetics, statistically significant differences were also observed, both when analyzing them globally and when doing so for each of the systems. Conclusions: The variation in the rotational position of the cleat influences both the cyclist’s kinematics and dynamics.
Integrated Geotechnical Approach and GIS for Identification of Geological Resources Exploitable Quarries for Sustainable Development in Ifni Inlier and Lakhssas Plateau (Western Anti Atlas, Morocco)
Authors: Sebbab Mohamed Mahmoud , El Ouahidi Abdelhadi , Ousbih Mehdi , Ouboulahcen Seddik , Abdelrahman Kamal , Abioui Mohamed
Published: March 2023

The purpose of this paper is to identify, quantify and delineate the areas with suitable aggregate resources in the Precambrian massif of Ifni and the limestone plateau of Lakhssas (southwest Morocco). To fulfill this objective, a study was undertaken on the geotechnical parameters of the various geological outcrops of the region based on the analysis of 42 rock samples (carbonate, magmatic, detritic and volcano-detritic). Initially, we subjected these samples to a series of laboratory tests (impact resistance (L.A), wear resistance (MDE), density, porosity, absorption), to classify them according to geotechnical standards. Then, a geospatial database was created, to exploit these geotechnical data, from a geographical information system (GIS) to produce various thematic maps. Based on the results of this study, all geotechnical classes according to the standards (A to E for the European standard and 1A to 6D for the Moroccan standard) are present with good to very good geomechanical properties (L.A between 12% and 35%, MDE between 5% and 30%). This classification allowed us to use GIS to identify and quantify potential areas for exploitation by assigning five categories of geotechnical suitability levels (high (4), medium (3), low (2), very low (1) and others (0)) and to show that approximately 72% of the study area belongs to the categories high, medium and low. The combination of laboratory results and GIS has allowed us to carry out geotechnical mapping that will be used by regional authorities and actors for good management of the field of quarrying to rationalize the national natural heritage.
Bulk Solids Stacking Strategy of a Rectangular Ship Cabin
Authors: Yuan Jianming , Li Dongxu , Shen Jiahe , Jin Chenglong , Yan Jiahao , Xu Chang
Published: March 2023

Stacking of bulk solids in terminals, ships, trains, and other bulk solids storage yards is always challenging, considering the requirements of optimal utilization of storage areas. In this study, stacking shapes of a variety of bulk solids with different particle sizes were tested, and the curved shapes of the stockpiles were extracted to establish the actual three-dimensional models of the bulk solids accordingly. The three-dimensional curved stockpiles were used to design the bulk solids stacking strategy where the bulk stacking locations, the stacking volume, and the stacking flatness were optimized. A modified golden section method with a self-influenced factor was developed to improve the calculation efficiency of the stacking algorithm for bulk solids stacking flatness. Furthermore, the bulk solids stacking strategy and algorithm were verified by experiments. The results showed that the curved three-dimensional models were very close to the actual shapes of the bulk solids stockpiles, while the improved golden section method was more accurate and efficient than the traditional golden section method in determining the optimal values of the stacking volumes in terms of flatness. For the different bulk solids tested, the experiment results showed that good flat stacking can be achieved by using the developed stacking strategy.
Modeling Job Satisfaction of Peruvian Basic Education Teachers Using Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Holgado-Apaza Luis Alberto , Carpio-Vargas Edgar E. , Calderon-Vilca Hugo D. , Maquera-Ramirez Joab , Ulloa-Gallardo Nelly J. , Acosta-Navarrete María Susana , Barrón-Adame José Miguel , Quispe-Layme Marleny , Hidalgo-Pozzi Rossana , Valles-Coral Miguel
Published: March 2023

Teacher job satisfaction is an important aspect of academic performance, student retention, and teacher retention. We propose to determine the predictive model of job satisfaction of basic education teachers using machine learning techniques. The original data set consisted of 15,087 instances and 942 attributes from the national survey of teachers from public and private educational institutions of regular basic education (ENDO-2018) carried out by the Ministry of Education of Peru. We used the ANOVA F-test filter and the Chi-Square filter as feature selection techniques. In the modeling phase, the logistic regression algorithms, Gradient Boosting, Random Forest, XGBoost and Decision Trees-CART were used. Among the algorithms evaluated, XGBoost and Random Forest stand out, obtaining similar results in 4 of the 8 metrics evaluated, these are: balanced accuracy of 74%, sensitivity of 74%, F1-Score of 0.48 and negative predictive value of 0.94. However, in terms of the area under the ROC curve, XGBoost scores 0.83, while Random Forest scores 0.82. These algorithms also obtain the highest true-positive values (479 instances) and lowest false-negative values (168 instances) in the confusion matrix. Economic income, satisfaction with life, self-esteem, teaching activity, relationship with the director, perception of living conditions, family relationships; health problems related to depression and satisfaction with the relationship with colleagues turned out to be the most important predictors of job satisfaction in basic education teachers.
UAS IR-Thermograms Processing and Photogrammetry of Thermal Images for the Inspection of Building Envelopes
Authors: Gil-Docampo Mariluz , Sanz Juan Ortiz , Guerrero Ignacio Cañas , Cabanas Manés Fernández
Published: March 2023

Infrared thermography techniques (IRT) are increasingly being applied in non-invasive structural defect detection and building inspection, as they provide accurate surface temperature (ST) and ST contrast (Delta-T) information. The common optional or off-the-shelf installation, of both low- and high-resolution thermal cameras, on commercial UAS further facilitates the application of IRT by enabling aerial imaging for building envelope surveys. The software used in photogrammetry is currently accurate and easy to use. The increasing computational capacity of the hardware allows three-dimensional models to be obtained from conventional photography, thermal, or even multispectral imagery with very short processing times, further improving the possibilities of analysing buildings and structures. Therefore, in this study, which is an extension of a previous work, the analysis of the envelope of a wine cellar, using manual thermal cameras, as well as cameras installed on board an Unmanned Aerial System (UAS), will be presented. Since the resolution of thermal images is much lower than that of conventional photography, and their nature does not allow for accurate representation of three-dimensional objects, a new, but simple, digital image pre-processing method will be presented to provide a more detailed 3D model. Then, the three-dimensional reconstruction, based on thermal imagery, of the building envelope will be performed and analysed. The limitations of each technique will be also detailed, together with the anomalies found and the proposed improvements.
Electron-Impact Excitation and Dissociation of Heavy Rare Gas Heteronuclear Ions via Transitions to Charge Transfer States
Authors: Narits Alexander , Kislov Konstantin , Lebedev Vladimir
Published: March 2023

Heteronuclear diatomic rare gas molecular cations feature excited electronic terms with charge transfer character located several eV above the ground term. The role of such terms in collisions involving heteronuclear ions is studied theoretically under conditions typical of the plasma-based sources of UV and IR radiation. Calculations were carried out for processes of dissociative excitation, dissociative recombination and electron impact bound–bound excitation in Ar/Xe and Kr/Xe plasmas using the recently developed semiclassical approach combined with the ab initio data for potential energy curves and oscillator strengths of electronic transitions. The approach consistently describes the contributions from the entire rovibrational manifold to the processes studied. The cross sections of the processes mentioned are calculated for wide ranges of gas temperatures and electron energies. We show that the processes considered are quite effective when they are accompanied by transitions to charge transfer terms. For the range of electron energies typical of active media of UV and IR radiation sources the cross sections exceed those reported for the processes usually considered to involve transitions between the ground and first excited electronic state. The excitation of charge transfer electronic terms can play an important role in the kinetics of rare gas mixture plasmas.
The Effects of Silicon Anode Thickness on the Electrochemical Performance of Li-Ion Batteries
Authors: Raić Matea , Kvastek Krešimir , Mikac Lara , Baran Nikola , Ivanda Mile
Published: March 2023

The electrode configuration is an important element in the development of Li-ion cells. The energy density is proportional to the loading of the active material. Therefore, increasing the electrode thickness is the simplest way to achieve higher capacities. In this paper, we compare the effects of three different thicknesses of Ag-decorated Si electrode anode (HCSi) on the electrochemical performances such as the SEI layer formation, impedances, and mass capacitances. We prepared three different silicon electrode thicknesses to optimize the electrodes: 20, 40 and 60 µm and measured in situ galvanostatic electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (GEIS). Using GEIS, we studied the intercalation mechanism of Li+ ions in detail and found that despite having the same capacities (≈3500 mAh g−1), the thinnest electrode, HCSi20, allows diffusion of Li+ ions into the bulk, whereas thicker layers prevent smooth diffusion into the bulk of the silicon electrode due to increased layer resistance. The Voigt model was used to analyze the anomaly of the frequency dependence of the measured impedance, in which, the classical Randles circuit is connected in series with one or two R ‖ C parallel combinations. One R ‖ C circuit could be the result of the SEI formation, and the second R ‖ C circuit could be the contribution of Li. To increase the number of charge and discharge cycles, we improved the electrolyte by adding fluoroethylene carbonate (FEC), which reduced the capacity of the HCSi20 electrode to 50% of the initial capacity (≈3500 mAh g−1) after 60 cycles, whereas it dropped to 20% of the initial capacity after 10 cycles without the addition of FEC.
Ankle Joint Angle Influences Relative Torque Fluctuation during Isometric Plantar Flexion
Authors: Shi Fandi , Rymer William Zev , Son Jongsang
Published: March 2023

The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of changes in muscle length on the torque fluctuations and on related oscillations in muscle activity during voluntary isometric contractions of ankle plantar flexor muscles. Eleven healthy individuals were asked to perform voluntary isometric contractions of ankle muscles at five different contraction intensities from 10% to 70% of maximum voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) and at three different muscle lengths, implemented by changing the ankle joint angle (plantar flexion of 26°-shorter muscle length; plantar flexion of 10°-neutral muscle length; dorsiflexion of 3°-longer muscle length). Surface electromyogram (EMG) signals were recorded from the skin surface over the triceps surae muscles, and rectified-and-smoothed EMG (rsEMG) were estimated to assess the oscillations in muscle activity. The absolute torque fluctuations (quantified by the standard deviation) were significantly higher during moderate-to-high contractions at the longer muscle length. Absolute torque fluctuations were found to be a linear function of torque output regardless of muscle length. In contrast, the relative torque fluctuations (quantified by the coefficient of variation) were higher at the shorter muscle length. However, both absolute and relative oscillations in muscle activities remained relatively consistent at different ankle joint angles for all plantar flexors. These findings suggest that the torque steadiness may be affected by not only muscle activities, but also by muscle length-dependent mechanical properties. This study provides more insights that muscle mechanics should be considered when explaining the steadiness in force output.
The Significant Potential of Simonkolleite Powder for Deep Wound Healing under a Moist Environment: In Vivo Histological Evaluation Using a Rat Model
Authors: Yamamoto Osamu , Nagashima Miki , Nakata Yoshimi , Udagawa Etsuro
Published: March 2023

In the present work, simonkolleite powder consisting of Zn5(OH)8Cl2·H2O composition was proposed as a new candidate material for the healing of deep wounds in a moist environment. The powder was synthesized using a solution process and evaluated for wound-healing effects in rats. The pH value of physiological saline at 37 °C using the simonkolleite powder was 7.27, which was the optimal pH value for keratinocyte and fibroblast proliferation (range: 7.2–8.3). The amount of Zn2+ ions sustainably released from simonkolleite powder into physiological saline was 404 mmol/L below cytotoxic ion concentrations (<500 mmol/L), and the rhombohedral simonkolleite was accordingly converted to monoclinic Zn5(OH)10·2H2O. To evaluate the wound-healing effect of simonkolleite powder, the powder was applied to a full-thickness surgical wound reaching the subcutaneous tissue in the rat’s abdomen. The histological analysis of the skin tissues collected after 1, 2, and 4 weeks found that angiogenesis, collagen deposition, and maturation were notedly accelerated due to the Zn2+ ions released from simonkolleite powder. The simonkolleite regenerated collagen close to autologous skin tissue after 4 weeks. The hair follicles, one of the skin appendages, were observed on the regenerative skin in the simonkolleite group at 4 weeks but not in the control group. Therefore, simonkolleite was hypothesized to stimulate the early regeneration of skin tissue in a moist environment, compared with commercial wound dressing material. These results suggested that simonkolleite could offer great potential as new wound dressing material.
Swept-Source OCT Mid-Peripheral Retinal Irregularity in Retinal Detachment and Posterior Vitreous Detachment Eyes
Authors: Lake Stewart R. , Bottema Murk J. , Lange Tyra , Williams Keryn A. , Reynolds Karen J.
Published: March 2023

Irregularities in retinal shape have been shown to correlate with axial length, a major risk factor for retinal detachment. To further investigate this association, a comparison was performed of the swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS OCT) peripheral retinal shape of eyes that had either a posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) or vitrectomy for retinal detachment. The objective was to identify a biomarker that can be tested as a predictor for retinal detachment. Eyes with a PVD (N = 88), treated retinal detachment (N = 67), or retinal tear (N = 53) were recruited between July 2020 and January 2022 from hospital retinal clinics in South Australia. The mid-peripheral retina was imaged in four quadrants with SS OCT. The features explored were patient age, eye axial length, and retinal shape irregularity quantified in the frequency domain. A discriminant analysis classifier to identify retinal detachment eyes was trained with two-thirds and tested with one-third of the sample. Retinal detachment eyes had greater irregularity than PVD eyes. A classifier trained using shape features from the superior and temporal retina had a specificity of 84% and a sensitivity of 48%. Models incorporating axial length were less successful, suggesting peripheral retinal irregularity is a better biomarker for retinal detachment than axial length. Mid-peripheral retinal irregularity can identify eyes that have experienced a retinal detachment.
Prevalence of Ponticulus Posticus and Migraine in 220 Orthodontic Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Macrì Monica , Rendina Fabiola , Feragalli Beatrice , Pegreffi Francesco , Festa Felice
Published: March 2023

Background: Ponticulus posticus (PP) is a medical term that describes an anomaly of the atlas (C1), which has a complete or partial bone bridge over the vertebral artery (VA) groove. The purpose of the study is to estimate the prevalence of PP in patients with a diagnosis of migraine. Methods: Cone beam CT (CBCT) scans (n = 220) were reviewed for the detection of PP in the University “G. D’Annunzio” of Chieti in the Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences. The sample included 220 Italian patients between 18 and 87 years. Pearson chi-square analysis (p < 0.05 and 95% CI) was used to establish an association between migraine and PP. Results: The present study found a prevalence of PP of 20.9% and a prevalence of migraine of 12.272%. The association between migraine and PP was confirmed by the chi-square statistic, since the p-value was 0.008065 (significant at p < 0.05). PP was more frequent in the migraine without aura group, without a statistical difference relative to the migraine with aura group. Conclusions. The study concluded that PP is positively associated with migraine.
High-Fat Diet Related Lung Fibrosis-Epigenetic Regulation Matters
Authors: Yang Juntang , Liang Chenxi , Liu Lulu , Wang Lan , Yu Guoying
Published: March 2023

Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is an interstitial lung disease characterized by the destruction of the pulmonary parenchyma caused by excessive extracellular matrix deposition. Despite the well-known etiological factors such as senescence, aberrant epithelial cell and fibroblast activation, and chronic inflammation, PF has recently been recognized as a metabolic disease and abnormal lipid signature was observed both in serum and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) of PF patients and mice PF model. Clinically, observational studies suggest a significant link between high-fat diet (HFD) and PF as manifested by high intake of saturated fatty acids (SFAs) and meat increases the risk of PF and mice lung fibrosis. However, the possible mechanisms between HFD and PF remain unclear. In the current review we emphasize the diversity effects of the epigenetic dysregulation induced by HFD on the fibrotic factors such as epithelial cell injury, abnormal fibroblast activation and chronic inflammation. Finally, we discuss the potential ways for patients to improve their conditions and emphasize the prospect of targeted therapy based on epigenetic regulation for scientific researchers or drug developers.
Association between Serum Levels of Interleukin-25/Thymic Stromal Lymphopoietin and the Risk of Exacerbation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Choi Joon Young , Kim Tae-Hyung , Kang Sung-Yoon , Park Hye Jung , Lim Seong Yong , Kim Sang Hyuk , Jung Ki-Suck , Yoo Kwang Ha , Yoon Hyoung Kyu , Rhee Chin Kook
Published: March 2023

Th2 inflammation is associated with various characteristics of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In this study, we analyzed the COPD exacerbation risk associated with serum levels of interleukin (IL)-25/thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) and eosinophils. We studied the KOCOSS cohort, a multicenter COPD cohort created by 54 medical centers in South Korea. We extracted data collected between April 2012 and August 2020. We measured serum levels of TSLP and IL-25 in those who agreed to provide blood, and assessed exacerbation risk according to each. In all, 562 patients were enrolled. The IL-25-high group had a lower St. George’s Respiratory Questionnaire score than others, and the TSLP-high group had a poorer exercise capacity than the TSLP-low group. There were no significant differences in the forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), the levels of Th2 inflammatory biomarkers, or the exacerbation histories between the two groups. The 3-year decline in FEV1 was not significantly affected by IL-25 or TSLP levels. In terms of 1-year exacerbation risk, individuals in the IL-25-high group were at lower risk for moderate-to-severe exacerbation than others. A high TSLP level was associated with a lower risk of severe exacerbation but only in the eosinophil-low group. Serum levels of IL-25 are negatively correlated with moderate-to-severe exacerbation risk in this cohort. A negative correlation between severe exacerbation risk and TSLP level was apparent only in the eosinophil-low group.
Distinct Changes in Placental Ceramide Metabolism Characterize Type 1 and 2 Diabetic Pregnancies with Fetal Macrosomia or Preeclampsia
Authors: Klemetti Miira M. , Alahari Sruthi , Post Martin , Caniggia Isabella
Published: March 2023

Disturbances of lipid metabolism are typical in diabetes. Our objective was to characterize and compare placental sphingolipid metabolism in type 1 (T1D) and 2 (T2D) diabetic pregnancies and in non-diabetic controls. Placental samples from T1D, T2D, and control pregnancies were processed for sphingolipid analysis using tandem mass spectrometry. Western blotting, enzyme activity, and immunofluorescence analyses were used to study sphingolipid regulatory enzymes. Placental ceramide levels were lower in T1D and T2D compared to controls, which was associated with an upregulation of the ceramide degrading enzyme acid ceramidase (ASAH1). Increased placental ceramide content was found in T1D complicated by preeclampsia. Similarly, elevated ceramides were observed in T1D and T2D pregnancies with poor glycemic control. The protein levels and activity of sphingosine kinases (SPHK) that produce sphingoid-1-phosphates (S1P) were highest in T2D. Furthermore, SPHK levels were upregulated in T1D and T2D pregnancies with fetal macrosomia. In vitro experiments using trophoblastic JEG3 cells demonstrated increased SPHK expression and activity following glucose and insulin treatments. Specific changes in the placental sphingolipidome characterize T1D and T2D placentae depending on the type of diabetes and feto-maternal complications. Increased exposure to insulin and glucose is a plausible contributor to the upregulation of the SPHK-S1P-axis in diabetic placentae.
Platelet Lysate Therapy Attenuates Hypoxia Induced Apoptosis in Human Uroepithelial SV-HUC-1 Cells through Regulating the Oxidative Stress and Mitochondrial-Mediated Intrinsic Apoptotic Pathway
Authors: Wu Zong-Sheng , Luo Hou-Lun , Chuang Yao-Chi , Lee Wei-Chia , Wang Hung-Jen , Chancellor Michael B.
Published: March 2023

(1) Background: Ischemia/hypoxia plays an important role in interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS). Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has been shown to relieve symptoms of IC/BPS by regulating new inflammatory processes and promoting tissue repair. However, the mechanism of action of PRP on the IC/BPS bladder remains unclear. We hypothesize that PRP might protect the urothelium during ischemia/hypoxia by decreasing apoptosis. (2) Methods: SV-HUC-1 cells were cultured under hypoxia for 3 h and treated with or without 2% PLTGold® human platelet lysate (PL). Cell viability assays using trypan blue cell counts were examined. Molecules involved in the mitochondrial-mediated intrinsic apoptosis pathway, HIF1α, and PCNA were assessed by Western blot analysis. The detection of apoptotic cells and CM-H2DCFDA, an indicator of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in cells, was analyzed by flow cytometry. (3) Results: After 3 h of hypoxia, the viability of SV-HUC-1 cells and expression of PCNA were significantly decreased, and the expression of ROS, HIF1α, Bax, cytochrome c, caspase 3, and early apoptosis rate were significantly increased, all of which were attenuated by PL treatment. The addition of the antioxidant N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) suppressed the levels of ROS induced by hypoxia, leading to inhibition of late apoptosis. (4) Conclusions: PL treatment could potentially protect the urothelium from apoptosis during ischemia/hypoxia by a mechanism that modulates the expression of HIF1α, the mitochondria-mediated intrinsic apoptotic pathway, and reduces ROS.
HERVs and Cancer—A Comprehensive Review of the Relationship of Human Endogenous Retroviruses and Human Cancers
Authors: Stricker Erik , Peckham-Gregory Erin C. , Scheurer Michael E.
Published: March 2023

Genomic instability and genetic mutations can lead to exhibition of several cancer hallmarks in affected cells such as sustained proliferative signaling, evasion of growth suppression, activated invasion, deregulation of cellular energetics, and avoidance of immune destruction. Similar biological changes have been observed to be a result of pathogenic viruses and, in some cases, have been linked to virus-induced cancers. Human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs), once external pathogens, now occupy more than 8% of the human genome, representing the merge of genomic and external factors. In this review, we outline all reported effects of HERVs on cancer development and discuss the HERV targets most suitable for cancer treatments as well as ongoing clinical trials for HERV-targeting drugs. We reviewed all currently available reports of the effects of HERVs on human cancers including solid tumors, lymphomas, and leukemias. Our review highlights the central roles of HERV genes, such as gag, env, pol, np9, and rec in immune regulation, checkpoint blockade, cell differentiation, cell fusion, proliferation, metastasis, and cell transformation. In addition, we summarize the involvement of HERV long terminal repeat (LTR) regions in transcriptional regulation, creation of fusion proteins, expression of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and promotion of genome instability through recombination.
Leucine-Rich Alpha-2-Glycoprotein: A Novel Predictor of Diastolic Dysfunction
Authors: Loch Alexander , Tan Kok Leng , Danaee Mahmoud , Idris Iskandar , Ng Mei Li
Published: March 2023

Leucine-rich α2-glycoprotein (LRG1) mediates cardiac fibrocyte activation. It is upregulated in inflammatory conditions, atherosclerosis, and fibrosis. Diastolic dysfunction (DD) is due to myocardial fibrosis. This cross-sectional study examined the relationship between LRG1 and DD. Patients with symptoms of chronic coronary ischemia were recruited. Patients with symptoms of overt heart failure, ejection fraction (EF) < 55%, impaired renal function, infection, and recent trauma were excluded from the study. Clinical parameters examined were SYNergy between percutaneous coronary intervention with TAXus and cardiac surgery (SYNTAX) score, echocardiographic assessment, and LRG1 levels. Binary stepwise logistic regression was used to evaluate the association between LRG1 and DD. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis was used to determine optimal cut-off values and predictive performance of LRG1. A total of 94 patients were enrolled in the study, with 47 having a clinical diagnosis of DD. Plasma LRG1 was significantly (U = 417.00, p < 0.001) higher in the DD group (M = 14) compared to the No-DD group (M = 8) by Mann–Whitney U test. There were higher SYNTAX scores in the DD group (M = 24.5) compared with No-DD (M = 7). LRG1 had significant predictability of DD (OR = 1.32 (95% CI: 1.14–1.53)). The ROC showed an AUC = 0.89 (95% CI: 0.82–0.95). LRG1 had a 78% sensitivity (95% CI: 65.3–87.7) and 72.3% specificity (95% CI: 57.4–84.4) for predicting DD at a cut-off value of “9”. In conclusion, we identified LRG1 as a novel independent predictor of DD. Further studies are warranted to validate the utility of LRG1 in predicting DD.
The Tryptophan-Kynurenine Metabolic System Is Suppressed in Cuprizone-Induced Model of Demyelination Simulating Progressive Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Polyák Helga , Galla Zsolt , Nánási Nikolett , Cseh Edina Katalin , Rajda Cecília , Veres Gábor , Spekker Eleonóra , Szabó Ágnes , Klivényi Péter , Tanaka Masaru , Vécsei László
Published: March 2023

Progressive multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease with a unique pattern, which is histologically classified into the subpial type 3 lesions in the autopsy. The lesion is also homologous to that of cuprizone (CPZ) toxin-induced animal models of demyelination. Aberration of the tryptophan (TRP)-kynurenine (KYN) metabolic system has been observed in patients with MS; nevertheless, the KYN metabolite profile of progressive MS remains inconclusive. In this study, C57Bl/6J male mice were treated with 0.2% CPZ toxin for 5 weeks and then underwent 4 weeks of recovery. We measured the levels of serotonin, TRP, and KYN metabolites in the plasma and the brain samples of mice at weeks 1, 3, and 5 of demyelination, and at weeks 7 and 9 of remyelination periods by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) after body weight measurement and immunohistochemical analysis to confirm the development of demyelination. The UHPLC-MS/MS measurements demonstrated a significant reduction of kynurenic acid, 3-hydoxykynurenine (3-HK), and xanthurenic acid in the plasma and a significant reduction of 3-HK, and anthranilic acid in the brain samples at week 5. Here, we show the profile of KYN metabolites in the CPZ-induced mouse model of demyelination. Thus, the KYN metabolite profile potentially serves as a biomarker of progressive MS and thus opens a new path toward planning personalized treatment, which is frequently obscured with immunologic components in MS deterioration.
Rapamycin Treatment Alleviates Chronic GVHD-Induced Lupus Nephritis in Mice by Recovering IL-2 Production and Regulatory T Cells While Inhibiting Effector T Cells Activation
Authors: Zhang Jilu , Wang Xun , Wang Renxi , Chen Guojiang , Wang Jing , Feng Jiannan , Li Yan , Yu Zuyin , Xiao He
Published: March 2023

In this study, we test the therapeutic effects of rapamycin in a murine model of SLE-like experimental lupus nephritis induced by chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD). Our results suggest that rapamycin treatment reduced autoantibody production, inhibited T lymphocyte and subsequent B cell activation, and reduced inflammatory cytokine and chemokine production, thereby protecting renal function and alleviating histological lupus nephritis by reducing the occurrence of albuminuria. To explore the potential mechanism of rapamycin’s reduction of kidney damage in mice with lupus nephritis, a series of functional assays were conducted. As expected, rapamycin remarkably inhibited the lymphocytes’ proliferation within the morbid mice. Interestingly, significantly increased proportions of peripheral CD4+FOXP3+ and CD4+CD25high T cells were observed in rapamycin-treated group animals, suggesting an up-regulation of regulatory T cells (Tregs) in the periphery by rapamycin treatment. Furthermore, consistent with the results regarding changes in mRNA abundance in kidney by real-time PCR analysis, intracellular cytokine staining demonstrated that rapamycin treatment remarkably diminished the secretion of Th1 and Th2 cytokines, including IFN-γ, IL-4 and IL-10, in splenocytes of the morbid mice. However, the production of IL-2 from splenocytes in rapamycin-treated mice was significantly higher than in the cells from control group animals. These findings suggest that rapamycin treatment might alleviate systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)-like experimental lupus nephritis through the recovery of IL-2 production, which promotes the expansion of regulatory T cells while inhibiting effector T cell activation. Our studies demonstrated that, unlike other commonly used immunosuppressants, rapamycin does not appear to interfere with tolerance induction but permits the expansion and suppressive function of Tregs in vivo.
Amivantamab-Vmjw: A Novel Treatment for Patients with NSCLC Harboring EGFR Exon 20 Insertion Mutation after Progression on Platinum-Based Chemotherapy
Authors: Shah Vishal , McNatty Andrea , Simpson Lacey , Ofori Henry , Raheem Farah
Published: March 2023

Objective: This study is a comprehensive review of the clinical pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, efficacy, safety, and clinical applicability of amivantamab-vmjw for metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) exon 20 insertion (exon20ins) mutation. Data Synthesis: The literature search to identify clinical trials returned only the CHRYSALIS phase 1 study. In a phase I trial, amivantamab-vmjw was associated with an overall response rate (ORR) of 40% (95% CI, 29–51) in the EGFR exon20ins NSCLC patient population (n = 81) after platinum-based chemotherapy. There were 3 complete responses (CRs) and 29 partial responses (PRs). The median duration of response (DOR) was 11.1 months (95% CI, 6.9—not reached; NR). The median progression-free survival (PFS) was 8.3 months (95% CI, 6.5–10.9), and overall survival (OS) was 22.8 months (95% CI, 14.6—NR). Application to Clinical Practice: This review summarizes the pharmacology, clinical evidence, and use of amivantamab-vmjw for patients with locally advanced or metastatic NSCLC with EGFR exon20ins mutation. Conclusion: The FDA approval of amivantamab-vmjw, the first bispecific antibody to target the exon20ins mutation, represents an important advancement in the treatment of patients with NSCLC with limited effective treatment options. The initial findings of the CHRYSALIS trial demonstrate an overall tumor response benefit with an acceptable safety profile.