bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rosette‑forming glioneuronal tumor in the Posterior Fossa: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Zhang Ying , Li YiHua , Wang Xiaoying , Tang Yinda , Zhao Hua , Wang Baimiao , Wang Lifeng , Li Shiting
Published: September 2023

Rosette‑forming glioneuronal tumors (RGNT) is a rare type of glioneuronal neoplasm. We report a case of a typical RGNT in a 15-year-old female presenting with headache and vomiting for one month. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a cerebellar vermis mass that protruded into the fourth ventricle. Histological examination showed a biphasic pattern of rosettes and astrocytic components composed of oligodendrocyte-like cells, with synaptophysin (SYN) and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) immunopositivity in both patterns. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) identified FGFR1 p.K656E mutation and PIK3CA p.E545A mutation in this patient. Through this case report, we aim to deepen the understanding of RGNT.
Targeted mutagenesis of Medicago truncatula Nodule-specific Cysteine-rich (NCR) genes using the Agrobacterium rhizogenes-mediated CRISPR/Cas9 system
Authors: Güngör Berivan , Biró János Barnabás , Domonkos Ágota , Horváth Beatrix , Kaló Péter
Published: September 2023

The host-produced nodule specific cysteine-rich (NCR) peptides control the terminal differentiation of endosymbiotic rhizobia in the nodules of IRLC legumes. Although the Medicago truncatula genome encodes about 700 NCR peptides, only few of them have been proved to be crucial for nitrogen-fixing symbiosis. In this study, we applied the CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing technology to generate knock-out mutants of NCR genes for which no genetic or functional data were previously available. We have developed a workflow to analyse the mutation and the symbiotic phenotype of individual nodules formed on Agrobacterium rhizogenes-mediated transgenic hairy roots. The selected NCR genes were successfully edited by the CRISPR/Cas9 system and nodules formed on knockout hairy roots showed wild type phenotype indicating that peptides NCR068, NCR089, NCR128 and NCR161 are not essential for symbiosis between M. truncatula Jemalong and Sinorhizobium medicae WSM419. We regenerated stable mutants edited for the NCR068 from hairy roots obtained from A. rhizogenes-mediated transformation. The analysis of the symbiotic phenotype of stable ncr068 mutants showed that peptide NCR068 is not required for symbiosis with S. meliloti strains 2011 and FSM-MA either. Our study reports that gene editing can help to elicit the role of particular NCRs in symbiotic nitrogen fixation.
Comparative study between TIG-MIG hybrid and MIG welding of 1.4462 duplex steel joints
Authors: Weis Sebastian , Grunert Robin , Brumm Stefan , Halmaghi Manuel , Prank Ulrich
Published: September 2023

Duplex steels are used for applications that require high strength and ductility combined with good corrosion resistance. An economical welding technology to handle these steels is achieved by combining a MIG and TIG arc process. The aim is to improve welding speed and quality by utilizing a TIG-MIG hybrid welding process to join 1.4462 duplex steel with a thickness of 2 mm. The interaction between the two arcs, caused by the blowing effect, is an enormous challenge, that can be counteracted with a defined torch position and current modulation. For this purpose, a variation of the MIG (pulsed and AC pulsed arc) and TIG process (AC and pulsed DC) took place. The influence of electrical parameters on process stability and material transfer were investigated. For analysis, an evaluation of high-speed recordings (5,000 frames per second) and synchronized measured current / voltage curves (200 kHz) is carried out. Based on a number of selected specimens, a welding procedure test according to ISO 15614-1 are performed to determine the welding seam quality. The test includes the characterization by tensile and hardness testing, macroscopic and microscopic examination. Additionally, the specimens are examined according to ISO 5817.
Study on the influence of stress difference coefficient on hydraulic fractures in deep shale reservoir and the formation method of complex fracture network
Authors: Qiu Guozhou , Chang Xin , Li Jing , Guo Yintong , Wang Lei , guo wuhao , Bi Zhenhui
Published: September 2023

With the progress of underground energy exploration and development, the research on deep shale was becoming increasingly important. Laboratory tests were designed and combined with theories to study the fracture characteristics of deep shale true triaxial hydraulic fracturing under different stress difference coefficients. Combined with the results of laboratory triaxial test and the evaluation method of rock brittleness based on energy change, it was shown that with the increase of confining pressure, the brittleness of shale decreased, indicating that it was difficult for deep shale to form complex fracture networks. In high-stress hydraulic fracturing tests with different stress difference coefficients, combining fractal theory and energy release rate principle, it was found that hydraulic fractures were easy to communicate with shale bedding planes under low horizontal stress difference coefficients, which can improve the complexity of hydraulic fractures ignoring the overall increase of the triaxial stress. Although the low horizontal stress difference coefficient in deep shale reservoir makes it easy for hydraulic fractures to communicate with shale strata and thus promote the formation of complex shale fracture network, deep shale reservoir fracture expansion is difficult and reservoir reconstruction scope is limited. Therefore, hydraulic fracturing tests under different viscosity and displacement were designed and multiple linear regression method was adopted to obtain the relationship between the coupling effect of fracturing fluid viscosity and displacement on the fractal dimension, which can not only improve the fracture complexity to a large extent, but also control the fracture propagation direction, provide reference for field fracturing work.
Poverty and income Gap: Dose Income Growth Alleviate Poverty?
Authors: Pang Hong , Liu Qiongzhi , Chen Nanxu
Published: September 2023

In this paper, two new poverty indexes, which we named RP index and RPC index, are proposed to measure poverty at a moment and changes in poverty over a period of time respectively. Compared to existing poverty indexes, RP index and RPCindex are characterized by taking into account income inequality of total population and its changes, which will enable them to more accurately measure poverty, especially relative poverty. The RP index and RPC index have been shown to satisfy seven poverty axioms, which guarantees the reliability of both indexes, as well as their sensitivity to changes in income, especially for the poor. Another important feature of RPCindex is its decomposability, which can be used to measure the impact of income growth on changes in poverty. By decomposing into source and subgroup, RPC index is decomposed as a sum of the effect of income growth and the effect of changes in incidence of poverty. The decomposition measures not only the impact of income growth on changes in poverty of total population, but also the impact of income growth on changes in poverty within subgroups and its contribution to changes in poverty of total population. Finally, using data from the China Household Finance Survey, a case study was conducted on the relative poverty of Chinese urban residents and the impact of income growth on changes in poverty. The conclusion indicates that uneven income growth will widen the income gap and therefore fail to alleviate poverty.
Root canal morphology of anterior permanent teeth in Jordanian population using two classification systems: A Cone-Beam Computed Tomography Study
Authors: Taha Nessrin , Makahleh Nisrein , Hatipoglu Fatma Pertek
Published: September 2023

Objectives
To investigate the root and canal morphology of mandibular anterior teeth using 2 classification systems.
Materials and Methods
3342 lower anteriors were evaluated from 557 CBCT scans. The images were examined in sagittal, axial and coronal views using a CS 3D imaging software (V3.10.4, Carestream Dental). Demographic data recorded, the number of roots and canal’s morphology were described according to Vertucci and Ahmed classifications.
Results
Frequency of Type I configuration was significantly the highest in incisors and canines (76%, N = 2539), followed by Type III (20.6%, N = 687). Type II (1.1%, N = 37), IV (1.1%, N = 37), and V (0.3%, N = 11) were rarely encountered. 0.9% (N = 31) of the teeth could not be classified with the Vertucci System. The frequency of 2 roots (2MA in Ahmed classification) which has no correspondence in the Vertucci classification, was 1.1% (N = 38), it was significantly higher in canines and in females (35 canines and 3 laterals). A moderate correlation in root canal morpology was found between the left and right sides (V > 0.30). 80% (N = 2538) of the teeth did not exhibit any divergence/merging. The bifurcation level occurred mostly in the middle third of the root.
Conclusions
One fourth of anterior teeth had variation from the simple type I canal configuration and therefore requires attention during treatment. The new classification system offers a more accurate and simplified presentation of canal morphology.
Clinical relevance
: The prevalence and mid root bifurcation of second canal in lower anteriors requires attention to ensure adequate quality root canal treatment without compromising the integrity of teeth.
3,3-dimethyl-1-butanol and its metabolite 3,3-dimethylbutyrate ameliorate collagen-induced arthritis independent of choline trimethylamine lyase activity
Authors: Fechtner Sabrina , Allen Brendan E. , Chriswell Meagan E. , Jubair Widian K. , Robertson Charles E. , Kofonow Jennifer N. , Frank Daniel N. , Holers V. Michael , Kuhn Kristine A.
Published: September 2023

Previous studies have identified significant alterations in intestinal carnitine metabolism in mice with collagen-induced arthritis (CIA), potentially linking bacterial dysbiosis with autoimmunity. Bacterial trimethylamine (TMA) lyases metabolize dietary carnitine to TMA, which is oxidized in the liver to trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO). TMAO is associated with inflammatory diseases, such as atherosclerosis, whose immunologic processes mirror that of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Therefore, we investigated the possibility of ameliorating CIA by inhibiting TMA lyase activity using 3,3-dimethyl-1-butanol (DMB) or fluoromethylcholine (FMC). During CIA, mice were treated with 1% vol/vol DMB, 100mg/kg FMC, or vehicle. DMB-treated mice demonstrated significant (> 50%) reduction in arthritis severity compared to FMC and vehicle-treated mice. However, in contrast to FMC, DMB treatment did not reduce cecal TMA nor circulating TMAO concentrations. Using gas chromatography, we confirmed the effect of DMB is independent of TMA lyase inhibition. Further, we identified a novel host-derived metabolite of DMB, 3,3-dimethyl-1-butyric acid (DMBut), which also significantly reduced disease and proinflammatory cytokines in CIA mice. Altogether, our study suggests that DMB the immunomodulatory activity of DMB and/or its metabolites are protective in CIA. Elucidating its target and mechanism of action may provide new directions for RA therapeutic development.
Additive Manufacturing Toolpath Planning Optimization for Energy Sustainability Improvement
Authors: Somade David Kolawole , Chen Niechen
Published: September 2023

As the application of Additive Manufacturing (AM) expands beyond prototyping, the issues of energy consumption in AM becomes increasingly significant, particularly when it is adopted at an industrial production scale or used under resource-restricted conditions. The energy consumption of an AM process is influenced by various factors. In material extrusion type AM, for example, it includes bed heating, filament extrusion, material infill, component cooling, etc. All these factors are further determined by the equipment and the toolpath for a specific printing task. Although, build orientation and tool-path direction are frequently used to optimize part and process attributes, there is a need for more comprehensive research to understand how the choice of toolpath pattern affects the energy attributes of an AM process. This research aims to develop a toolpath creation strategy for AM tasks operating under limited energy supply conditions. In an AM process, factors such as motor axis acceleration/deceleration and the total number and length of line segments on a path have significant impacts in determining on the amount of energy used to perform the printing task. To study the impact of such factors, we will develop a model that computes the energy consumption of an AM process based on the toolpath, then analyze the impacts of part design geometry on the toolpath generation. Finally, we will create a strategy to guide the generation of toolpath for specific part geometries to effectively control the total energy requirement during the AM process.
Global effects of aging on the hemodynamic response function in the human brain
Authors: Fesharaki Nooshin J. , Taylor Amanda , Mosby Keisjon , Kim Jung Hwan , Ress David
Published: September 2023

In functional magnetic resonance imaging, the hemodynamic response function (HRF) is a transient, stereotypical response to local changes in cerebral hemodynamics and oxygen metabolism due to briefly (< 4 s) evoked neural activity. Accordingly, the HRF is often used as an impulse response with the assumption of linearity in data analysis. In cognitive aging studies, it has been very common to interpret differences in brain activation as age-related changes in neural activity. Contrary to this assumption, however, evidence has accrued that normal aging may also significantly affect the vasculature, thereby affecting cerebral hemodynamics and metabolism, confounding interpretation of fMRI aging studies. In this study, use was made of a multisensory stimulus to evoke the HRF in ~ 87% of cerebral cortex in cognitively intact adults with ages ranging from 22–75 years. The stimulus evokes both positive and negative HRFs, which were characterized using model-free parameters in native-space coordinates. Results showed significant age trends in HRF parameter distributions in terms of both amplitudes (e.g., peak amplitude and CNR) and temporal dynamics (e.g., full-width-at-half-maximum). This work sets the stage for using HRF methods as a biomarker for age-related pathology.
Nanodisk–like Activated Carbon-Branched Polyamine for Adsorption and Degradation of Gaseous Formaldehyde
Authors: Ahmadi Younes , Kim Ki-Hyun
Published: September 2023

Interactions between surface functional groups of adsorbents and pollutants are key variables controlling adsorption and degradation. Herein, we presented a new approach to address such variables by modifying the surface of activated carbon (AC) with branched polyamine (BPA) to create an efficient hybrid material for tackling a common air pollutant, i.e., formaldehyde (FA). The hybrid AC-BPA possessed amine, –COOH, –OH, and Cl− on its surface, facilitating physical, chemical, and reactive adsorption of FA. Consequently, AC-BPA exhibited a high partition coefficient (PC) of 0.64 mol kg− 1 Pa− 1 (82.3 mg g− 1 adsorption capacity), surpassing pristine AC and associated reported systems. AC-BPA performance was further improved under high relative humidity (e.g., 100% RH), achieving an impressive adsorption capacity of 144.3 mg g− 1 and PC of 1.25 mol kg− 1 Pa− 1. Further, in-situ diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier-transform spectroscopy revealed that AC-BPA catalyzed the chemical transformation of FA into methylol adducts, H2O, and CO2. This study opens new approaches to the design of high-performance, energy-efficient, and metal-free hybrid materials for reactive adsorption and effective degradation of FA under ambient conditions.
Development and performance study of a composite protein foaming agent based on human hair residue
Authors: Zhang Xue-bo , Han Lin-xiu , Feng Xiao-jun , Zhang Chao-qun , Wang Pan
Published: September 2023

The instability and collapse of drilling holes in gas extraction seriously affect the effectiveness of gas extraction. Developing high-performance drilling protection materials is of great significance to ensure the effectiveness of gas extraction. In response to the need for high strength and permeability of drilling protective materials, this article selects human hair residue as the mother liquor material for composite protein foaming agents based on the high protein content of animal hoof horns and hair materials. Reasonable hydrolysis solution and its ratio have been determined, as well as the optimal active agent, foam stabilizer and their dosage .A new type of Foam concrete material with high strength, high permeability and environmental protection was developed by mixing and improving the foaming agent, and the optimal amount of foam was determined based on its compressive strength and permeability experiments. The results show that: 1) The foaming volume of foaming agent mother liquor prepared by NaOH after stirring for 1 min is 1.58 times of the foaming volume of foaming agent mother liquor prepared by Ca (OH) 2, while the 1-hour subsidence distance of NaOH hydrolytic foaming agent mother liquor is only 0.59 of that of Ca (OH) 2 hydrolytic foaming agent mother liquor, and the hydrolysis rate of NaOH is significantly higher than that of Ca (OH) 2. When sodium hydroxide is selected to hydrolyze protein, the optimal ratio of foaming agent mother liquor to water is 1:4. 2) K12, AOS, and SLS have very significant foaming effects on protein mother liquor, while LAS has extremely poor foaming effect.The foaming volume SLS>AOS>K12 indicates that SLS has the best foaming performance; The 1-hour settlement distance AOS>K12>SLS indicates the optimal foam stability performance of AOS; The variation curves of foam volume and 1-hour settling distance with the dosage of the four composite systems of active agents all roughly show an inverted "V" shape, and the optimal dosage of active agents is 2.0g/L. 3) Compared with the foam stabilizer Gum arabic and Calcium stearate, Calcium stearate has a better effect as the mother liquor mixed with anionic foam stabilizer and anionic surfactant. It is determined that the best combination scheme for foam performance is 2.0g/L lauryl polyoxyethylene ether sodium sulfate (SLS)+0.3% Calcium stearate. 4) The Foam concrete developed based on the compound foaming agent of human hair and slag has high strength (the strength exceeds 11MPa) and high permeability (the average permeability reaches 2.13MD); With the increase of foam content, the porosity of Foam concrete gradually increases, the permeability first increases and then decreases, and the compressive strength gradually decreases. When the amount of foaming agent is 25ml, its performance is the best.
Soluble Urokinase Plasminogen Activator Receptor, Platelet Aggregation, and Carotid Plaque Thickness in Diabetes: A Cross-Sectional Analysis
Authors: Curovic Viktor Rotbain , Tavenier Juliette , Divino L Felipe F , Poulsen Christina G , Houlind Morten B , Pedersen Oliver B , Urbak Laerke , Hansen Tine W , Sillesen Henrik , Frimodt-Møller Marie , Hvas Anne-Mette , Rossing Peter
Published: September 2023

Background:
Soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR) is an inflammatory biomarker strongly linked with cardiovascular disease in diabetes. By investigating its association with platelet aggregation levels and carotid plaque thickness, we can potentially improve the characterization of cardiovascular pathophysiology in type 1 (T1D) and type 2 diabetes (T2D).
Methods:
SuPAR was measured post-hoc in plasma collected in two cross-sectional studies including 1) individuals with T1D and 2) individuals with T2D without known cardiovascular disease. Platelet aggregation was analyzed employing impedance aggregometry using the agonists arachidonic acid (ASPI), adenosine diphosphate (ADP), and thrombin receptor activating peptide-6 (TRAP). Carotid plaque thickness was assessed bilaterally, and the thickest plaque (cPTmax) was analyzed. Correlations and associations of suPAR with platelet aggregation and cPTmax were assessed with Pearson’s R and linear regressions adjusted for sex, age, C-reactive protein, estimated glomerular filtration rate, and platelet levels (only for aggregation analysis). ASPI analyses were only performed in participant not receiving aspirin treatment. Standardized estimates with 95% confidence intervals are presented.
Results:
Two-hundred eighty-three with T1D (mean age 55 years, 44% women) and 493 individuals with T2D (mean age 65 years, 33% women) were included. SuPAR levels were positively correlated to platelet aggregation in both T1D (ADP: R = 0.18, p = 0.003; ASPI R = 0.13, p = 0.026) and T2D (ADP R = 0.14, p = 0.002; ASPI R = 0.14, p = 0.017). In adjusted linear regressions higher SuPAR levels were associated with higher ADP induced platelet aggregation in both T1D (26 (8, 44) AU/min, p = 0.004) and T2D (22 (3, 42) AU/min, p = 0.025), while associations to the other agonists were not conclusive. Higher suPAR levels were associated with thicker cPTmax in T1D (0.19 (0.07, 0.32) mm, p = 0.003), but not in T2D (p = 0.94).
Conclusion:
Higher levels of suPAR, an inflammatory generalized disease biomarker, were associated with increased platelet aggregation and thicker cPTmax, in type 1 diabetes. Similar associations with platelet aggregation were found in type 2 diabetes, but not for carotid plaque thickness. These results suggest distinct cardiovascular pathomechanisms in T1D and T2D, although prospective studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Glycine changes the sequential pattern of swallowing activity in the working heart–brainstem preparation in rats
Authors: Seikai Tetsuya , Yamanishi Tadashi , Takeshi Harada , Ono Yudai , Tsuji Tadataka , Ishihama Koji , Enomoto Akifumi , Kogo Mikihiko
Published: September 2023

Swallowing is a centrally programmed intricate activity consisting of both excitatory and inhibitory neural transmissions to ensure aspiration does not occur. However, the central mechanisms involved, in particular, the role of the inhibitory transmission underlying the establishment of sequential movements, are not well understood. Recently, some studies have demonstrated swallowing activity recorded from the working heart–brainstem preparation (WHBP), a useful model utilized to study the neuronal mechanisms involved in centrally controlled functions. However, such an activity has not yet been adequately confirmed. The aims of this study were first to confirm ability of WHBP to elicit swallowing activity, then study the roles of inhibitory neurotransmitter receptors in the sequential swallowing activity. Then, we found that application of a glycine receptor antagonist accelerate the timing of muscle activation of the middle pharyngeal constrictor muscle during the sequential activity of swallowing, while application of a GABAA receptor antagonist did not. Based on these results, we concluded that WHBP has a conserved neuronal network necessary for establishing swallowing activity, and that glycine receptors played a role in the orchestration of the sequential pattern.
Impact of Palliative Care at end-of-life Covid19 Patients – A Pioneering Experience
Authors: Rodrigues-Ribeiro João Luis , Guedes Luísa Castro , Pinto-Ribeiro Filipa , Nunes Rui Manuel Lopes
Published: September 2023

Background: The outbreak caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus was considered pandemic in March 2020, having already caused numerous deaths across the planet. Being able to cause diseases ranging from indolent to extremely symptomatic and life-threatening, it would be clearly beneficial to introduce professionals specialised in symptom control in advanced disease to combat it, in strict collaboration with other specialties, throughout the disease process. There are no studies in Portugal that analyse the intervention of Palliative Medicine at the end of life of these patients and how it differs from other specialties, so its knowledge could ascertain the importance of its inclusion in the care of the person with Covid19 in an advanced stage.
Objectives: It is intended to verify the existence of differences between the care provided to Covid19 patients in a situation of Last Hours and Days of Life (LHDOL) followed by Palliative Medicine Doctors compared to patients who were not followed up by this specialty.
Methods:Retrospective Cohort study using clinical files of deceased Covid19 users in a backup inpatient unit as a database.
Results:Statistically significant differences were found in the care provided, namely a lower number of drugs at the time of death, drugs for dyspnoea, pain, and agitation, suspension of futile devices and use of palliative sedation to control refractory symptoms.
Conclusion: End-of-life care and symptomatic control differ when there’s regular follow-up by Palliative Medicine, which may translate not only into less symptomatic suffering, but also into a more dignified and humanised end of life.
Trust but verify: How to assess the reliability of paleomagnetic directions by using the R package PmagDirs
Authors: Dallanave Edoardo
Published: September 2023

Paleomagnetism is the most important source of information for determining the position of tectonic plates in the geological past. During the last decades significant advancement have been done for improving the reliability of paleomagnetic data, ranging from analytical methods to statistic assessment. Here I present the first version of PmagDirs, a R-based open-source package optimized for R-Studio that allows to display, assess the reliability, and, when possible, un-flaw a given paleomagnetic directions distribution. The main functions in the package are: plotting paleomagnetic directions distributions and their average, apply different direction cut-off to eliminate outliers, perform test for antipodality, comparing the distribution shape with the one predicted by a widely accepted paleosecular variation model, correcting flawed distributions for paleomagnetic inclination flattening, and correct for strain-derived paleomagnetic directions deviation when the strain fabric is known. Ultimately, directions can be converted in virtual geomagnetic poles and plot on spherical projection for comparison with reference apparent polar wander path. All main functions of the PmagDirs package return text results as comma separated value files as well as vector graphic files (pdf) optimized for publication purpose with minimal to none manipulation.
Optimized CNN and Adaptive RBFNN for channel Estimation and Hybrid Precoding approaches for Multi User Millimeter wave Massive MIMO
Authors: B Pradheep T Rajan , N Muthukumaran
Published: September 2023

The Millimetre Wave (mmWave) communication satisfy the demand for high data rates due to the characteristic of wide bandwidth. Using massive Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO) technology, significant propagation loss of mmWave communication is effectively compensated. However, it is challenging to provide a specialised Radio Frequency (RF) chain for each antenna due to constrained physical area with closely spaced antennas and prohibitive power consumption in mmWave massive MIMO systems. This paper presents novel approaches for effective channel estimation and hybrid precoding in mmWave communication systems. To address the challenges of channel estimation, a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) is utilized, and network parameters are optimized using Enhanced Whale Optimization Algorithm (EWOA). The proposed CNN-based channel estimation method aims to accurately estimate the channel in mmWave systems with enhanced efficiency and reduced complexity. By training CNN using EWOA optimization algorithm, the network parameters are fine-tuned to improve accuracy and generalization capability of channel estimation process. Furthermore, hybrid precoding is achieved using Adaptive Radial Basis Function Neural Networks (Adaptive RBFNN) which enables efficient precoding while minimizing complexity. Moreover, the Adaptive RBFNN approach determines the optimal precoding weights based on Channel State Information (CSI), resulting in improved performance and reduced computational overhead. The performance analysis is validated using MATLAB/Simulink software and offers in providing effectual and reliable mmWave communication systems, facilitating the realization of high-speed and high-capacity wireless networks.
Auditory attention measured by EEG in neurological populations: Systematic review of literature and meta-analysis
Authors: Vanbilsen Nele , Kotz Sonja , Rosso Mattia , Leman Marc , Triccas Lisa Tedesco , Feys Peter , Moumdjian Lousin
Published: September 2023

Sensorimotor synchronization strategies have been frequently used for gait rehabilitation in different neurological populations. Despite these positive effects on gait, attentional processes required to dynamically attend to the auditory stimuli needs elaboration. Here, we investigate auditory attention in neurological populations compared to healthy controls quantified by EEG recordings. Literature was systematically searched in databases PubMed and Web of Science. Inclusion criteria were investigation of auditory attention quantified by EEG recordings in neurological populations in cross-sectional studies. In total, 35 studies were included, including participants with Parkinson’s disease (PD), stroke, Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). A meta-analysis was performed on P3 amplitude and latency separately to look at the differences between neurological populations and healthy controls (HCs) in terms of P3 amplitude and latency. Overall, neurological populations showed impairments in auditory processing in terms of magnitude and delay compared to healthy controls. Consideration of individual auditory processes and thereafter selecting and/or designing the auditory structure during sensorimotor synchronization paradigms in neurological physical rehabilitation is recommended.
Differential Tempol effects in prostatic cancer: angiogenesis and short- and long- term treatments
Authors: Santos Felipe Rabelo , Rossetto Isabela Maria Urra , Montico Fabio , Lamas Celina de Almeida , Cagnon Valéria Helena Alves
Published: September 2023

Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second cause of cancer death among men worldwide. Several processes are involved in the development and progression of PCa such as angiogenesis, inflammation and oxidative stress. The present study investigated the effect of short- or long-term Tempol treatment at different stages of prostate adenocarcinoma progression, focusing on angiogenic, proliferative, and stromal remodeling processes in TRAMP mice. The dorsolateral lobe of the prostate of TRAMP mice were evaluated at two different stages of PCa progression; early and late stages. Early stage was again divided into, short- or long-term. 50mg/kg Tempol dose was administered orally. The results demonstrated that Tempol mitigated the prostate histopathological lesion progressions in the TRAMP mice in all treated groups. However, Tempol increased molecules involved in the angiogenic process such as CD31 and VEGFR2 relative frequencies, particularly in long-term treatment. In addition, Tempol upregulated molecule levels involved in angiogenesis and stromal remodeling process VEGF, TGF-β1, VE-cadherin and vimentin, particularly, in T8-16 group. Thus, it was concluded that Tempol treatment delayed prostatic lesion progression in the dorsolateral lobe of the TRAMP mice. However, Tempol also led to pro-angiogenic effects and glandular stromal microenvironment imbalance, especially, in the long-term treatment.
Explored on Heat and Mass Transfer of Laser Cladding Molten Pool
Authors: Zhu Shichao , Niu Baolin , Chang Zhen , Jiang Zhengyi , Zhenhua Deng , Yin Feihong , Ouyang Linhan , Xie Lingling
Published: September 2023

To study the evolution law of the temperature field, flow field of molten pool and the macroscopic morphology of cladding layer in the process of laser cladding, the changes of molten pool morphology and distribution of molten pool temperature and flow fields due to the variation of the corresponding parameters during the laser cladding process are studied in this paper. Energy conservation equation, apparent heat capacity method, fluid dynamics theory and moving mesh algorithm were employed to analyze the effects of laser power, scanning speed, powder feeding rate and other process parameters on the cladding layer, the law of Marangoni convection caused by the change of surface tension temperature coefficient on the macroscopic morphology of molten pool and the distribution of internal temperature field and flow field were revealed.
Research on temperature control of high power microwave oven based on BPNNPID
Authors: Wang Wei , Li Shaohu , Wu Hao , Jiang Cheng , Tang Yingying
Published: September 2023

When using a relay as the control actuator for heating an existing 10kW high-power industrial microwave oven, traditional control methods result in significant overshoot and oscillation when the temperature reaches steady state, leading to low system temperature stability. To address this issue,we propose introducing a BP neural network PID control into the microwave heating device. We conducted simulation comparison and experimental verification using tap water as the heating object. Firstly,we established a temperature control model for industrial microwave ovens based on existing input and output experimental data. Secondly, we used MATLAB/SIMULINK to build a temperature control system for high-power industrial microwave ovens and conducted simulation comparative experiments .Finally,we performed an experiment to verify the temperature control performance of the BP neural network PID control method in industrial microwave ovens when heating 5kg of tap water. The experimental results demonstrate that this method exhibits smaller overshoot in medium temperature control during microwave heating, in comparison to conventional PID and fuzzy PID control. Additionally, there is no significant temperature oscillation observed.This method effectively enhances the stability of system temperature during the operation of high-power industrial microwave ovens,thereby contributing to the improvement of product quality and safety performance.
Furosemide Drug as a Corrosion Inhibitor for Carbon Steel in 1.0 M Hydrochloric Acid
Authors: Maksoud Samir Abd El , Fouda Abd El Aziz Fouda , Badawy Haby
Published: September 2023

Furosemide (4-chloro-2-furan-2-ylmethylamino-5-sulfamoylbenzoic acid) was examined as an inhibitor for the corrosion of carbon steel (CS) in 1.0 M HCl. The investigation included mass loss (ML) and electrochemical techniques: potentiodynamic polarization (PP), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and electrochemical frequency modulation (EFM). The efficiency of inhibition rises with increasing Furosemide concentration and temperature. At 300 ppm, the IE% reached 90%. This compound's behaviour follows the Temkin isotherm with good fit. The presence of varying quantities of the substance influences both anodic metal dissolution and cathodic hydrogen evolution (i.e., mixed type). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) were used to detect the effect of this compound on the CS surface. The molecular inhibitory effect of furosemide was demonstrated using quantum chemical calculations, and the molecular simulation results demonstrated the adsorption of these derivatives on the carbon steel surface.
IL-11 suppress VEGFR2 expression and hampers endothelial cell wound healing
Authors: Waghmare Ajay , Gustafsson Rasmus
Published: September 2023

Endothelial cells (EC) line the lumen of all blood vessels and are crucial for vascular integrity, haemeostasis and inflammation. EC are also targets for infections such as human cytomegalovirus (hCMV) that can induce vascular injury and release of various cytokines including the closely related interneukin (IL) 11 and IL-6. Here, we report a follow up study on our previous work on IL-11 and IL-6 responses to hCMV where the EC wound healing capacity and expression of relevant gene transcripts in EC treated with IL-11 or IL-6 are assessed. Treatment with IL-11, but not with IL-6, hampered the wound healing capacity and this effect may be due to suppression of VEGF signaling caused by suppression of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2). VEGFA levels remained unaltered. Together our data suggests that IL-11 hampers the regenerating wound healing capacity of EC and this may be due the to reduces expression of VEGFR2.
De-novo genome assembly of the invasive mosquito species Aedes japonicus and Aedes koreicus.
Authors: Catapano Paolo Luigi , Falcinelli Monica , Damiani Claudia , Cappelli Alessia , Koukouli Despoina , Rossi Paolo , Ricci Irene , Napolioni Valerio , Favia Guido
Published: September 2023

Background
Recently, two invasive Aedes mosquito species, Ae. japonicus and Ae. koreicus, are circulating in several European countries posing potential health risks to humans and animals. Vector control is the main option to prevent mosquito-borne diseases, and an accurate genome sequence of these mosquitoes is essential to better understand their biology and to develop effective control strategies.
Methods
A de novo genome assembly of Ae. japonicus (Ajap1) and Ae. koreicus (Akor1) have been produced based on a hybrid approach that combines Oxford Nanopore long reads and Illumina short reads data. Their quality was ascertained using various metrics. Masking of repetitive elements, gene prediction and functional annotation was performed.
Results
Sequence analysis revealed a very high presence of repetitive DNA and, among others, thermal adaptation genes and insecticide-resistance genes. Through the RNAseq analysis of larvae and adults of Ae. koreicus and Ae. japonicus exposed to different temperatures we also identified genes showing a differential temperature-dependent activation.
Conclusions
The assembly of Akor1 and Ajap1 genomes constitutes the first updated collective knowledge of the genomes of both mosquito species, providing the possibility of understanding key mechanisms of their biology such as the ability to adapt to harsh climates and to develop insecticide-resistance mechanisms.
Photocatalytic activity of Mordenite Fe3O4-Fe2O3 composite under visible light exposure
Authors: Avilés-Monreal Raúl , Borbón-Núñez Hugo A. , Farías M. H. , Castillón-Barraza Felipe
Published: September 2023

Dyes pollution is a serious environmental problem, heterogeneous catalysis has been proposed as a remediation method. In this study, a set of composite catalysts formed by synthetic mordenite with iron oxides was fabricated by a facile chemical co-precipitation method assisted by a subsequent partial thermal oxidation process. Physicochemical characterization of prepared materials was performed by a variety of techniques, including XRD, SEM, EDS, UV-Vis, and XPS. Photocatalytic methylene blue (MB) degradation by the synthesized composite catalyst was evaluated with visible light excitation. From the studied set, the sample prepared with a thermal treatment at 100°C in an air atmosphere for 3 h was capable to degrade ~ 90% of MB after 120 min with visible light of λ = 420 nm exposition and a little portion of H2O2 added. The catalyst composite obtained used three processes to eliminate methylene blue dye organic residue: adsorption of pollution, photocatalysis heterogeneous reaction and Fenton reaction. It is possible to modulate the catalytic properties by thermal treatments in the air atmosphere of synthesized mordenite Fe3O4-Fe2O3 composites. Mordenite iron oxide composites can be retrieved taking advantage of their magnetic properties and can be reusable. Mordenite Fe3O4-Fe2O3 composite could be an economical, facile, and non-toxic alternative for eliminating organic dye pollution using visible light irradiation in wastewater.
Community Septicemia Due to Meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus Aureus, Carriers of Panton-valentine Toxin in Children in Tropical Environments.
Authors: Azagoh-Kouadio Richard , Bi Claude Ghislain Tué , Koné Toutou Ismaël , Touré Kiffon Priscillia Marie-France , Kouadio Bhérat Armel Rameaux , Djè Adjoua Sonia , Sy Kadidia Savané , Taty Graces Guyléna , Lotchouang Djuidje Ulriche Ingrid , Cardenat Mélissa , Amon-Tanoh Dick Flore
Published: September 2023

Community-acquired infections with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), which produces Panton-Valentine Leukocidin (PVL) or staphylococcal toxic shock toxin (TSST), is rare in children without immune deficiency. Thus pose a threat. In a retrospective study of twelve cases collected from August 1, 2020 to August 31, 2021 in the Pediatrics and Medical Specialties Department of the University Hospital of Angré, we studied the epidemiological, clinical, therapeutic and evolutionary aspects of this often-fatal infection. The average age was 43 months 10 days, with 6/12 girls (50%) and 6/12 boys (50%). The skin lesion was present in 91.7% of patients. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) carrying Panton-Valentine's toxin (PVL) was isolated from all children in the blood. Three deaths from septic shock were observed. Anti-staphylococcal antibiotic therapy was administered in all cases. Chest exsufflation was necessary 3 times. The evolution was favorable for 9/12 patients (75%); 8/9 are cured without sequelae (88.9%) and 1/9 a pachypleuritis (11.1%). 3/12 deaths (25%) were recorded.
Interkingdom interactions shape the fungal microbiome of mosquitoes
Authors: Hegde Shivanand , Khanipov Kamil , Hornett Emily A , Nilyanimit Pornjarim , Pimenova Maria , Saldaña Miguel A , de Becker Charissa , Golovko Georgiy , Hughes Grant L
Published: September 2023

Background
The mosquito microbiome is an important modulator of vector competence and vectoral capacity. Unlike the extensively studied bacterial microbiome, fungal communities in the mosquito microbiome (mycobiome) remain largely unexplored. To work towards getting an improved understanding of the fungi associated with mosquitoes, we sequenced the mycobiome of three field-collected and laboratory-reared mosquito species (Aedes albopictus, Aedes aegypti, and Culex quinquefasciatus).
Results
Our analysis showed both environment and host species were contributing to the diversity of the fungal microbiome of mosquitoes. When comparing species, Ae. albopictus possessed a higher number of diverse fungal taxa than Cx. quinquefasciatus, while strikingly less than 1% of reads from Ae. aegypti samples were fungal. Fungal reads from Ae. aegypti were < 1% even after inhibiting host amplification using a PNA blocker, indicating that this species lacked a significant fungal microbiome that was amplified using this sequencing approach. Using a mono-association mosquito infection model, we confirmed that mosquito-derived fungal isolates colonize and for Aedes mosquitoes, support growth and development at comparable rates to their bacterial counterparts. Strikingly, native bacterial taxa isolated from mosquitoes impeded the colonization of symbiotic fungi in Ae. aegypti suggesting interkingdom interactions shape fungal microbiome communities.
Conclusion
Collectively, this study adds to our understanding of the fungal microbiome of different mosquito species, that these fungal microbes support growth and development, and highlights that microbial interactions underpin fungal colonization of these medically relevent species.
Mapping Environmental Fragility in Anthropized Landscapes using Fuzzy Logic and continuous data spatialization
Authors: Morales Milton Vinícius , Valente Roberta Averna
Published: September 2023

Demographic expansion and intensive human activities have negatively impacted natural landscapes worldwide. The conversion of natural areas into anthropogenic sites often occurs without adequate planning, resulting in severe environmental and social problems. There is a constant search for the development of diagnosis and environmental planning methodologies to analyze the landscape in an integrated way. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and the cartographic representation of different landscape attributes (i.e., soil types, rainfall regime, topography, land use/land cover, among others) are essential tools for understanding the environmental dynamics of a region. This study focuses on analyzing environmental fragility in areas near the reservoir of the Jurumirin Hydropower Plant in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, using a fuzzy logic-based approach and spatially continuous data. The results indicate a medium and high environmental fragility predominance, significantly influencing agricultural practices and land use. The fuzzy approach allowed for a more precise representation of transitions between fragility classes, enhancing the understanding complex interactions among landscape attributes. These findings significantly impact reservoir management and environmental decision-making in transformed landscapes.
Polarized Variations of six Blazars in the Optical Emission
Authors: Yuan Yu-Hai , Wu Feng-Jie
Published: September 2023

Polarization studies in blazars are very effective tools when we analyze the emission composition and the relativistic jet. In order to investigate the origin of polarization and study the polarized variabilities, we collected the photometric and polarized data from the Steward Observatory blazar monitoring program, and made the following studies.
(1) Among the 6 target sources, there are 5 sources displaying strong correlations between the polarized variations ($P$) and $V$-lightcurves ($F_V$). (2) When we use the multi-order power law function to fit $P$ and $F_V$, we obtain some parameters, including the brightening timescales ($\Delta T_{b}$) and the dimming timescales ($\Delta T_{d}$).In the brightening stage, $\Delta T_{P|b}$ and $\Delta T_{F|b}$ show strong correlation, with the correlation coefficient $r=0.45$, the chance probability $p=0.30\%$. In the dimming stage, $\Delta T_{P|b}$ and $\Delta T_{F|b}$ show weak correlation.(3) In order to analyze the origin of polarization, we compare the dependence of polarizations on spectral indices, and conclude that the polarization come from both the beamed regions and the unbeamed regions.