bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of the Accuracy of 2D and 3D Templating for Revision Total Hip Replacement
Authors: Winter Philipp , Fritsch Ekkehard , König Jochem , Wolf Milan , Landgraeber Stefan , Orth Patrick
Published: March 2023

Introduction: Revision hip arthroplasty is a challenging surgical procedure, especially in cases of advanced acetabular bone loss. Accurate preoperative planning can prevent complications such as periprosthetic fractures or aseptic loosening. To date, the accuracy of three-dimensional (3D) versus two-dimensional (2D) templating has been evaluated only in primary hip and knee arthroplasty. Methods: We retrospectively investigated the accuracy of 3D personalized planning of reinforcement cages (Burch Schneider) in 27 patients who underwent revision hip arthroplasty. Personalized 3D modeling and positioning of the reinforcement cages were performed using computed tomography (CT) of the pelvis of each patient and 3D templates of the implant. To evaluate accuracy, the sizes of the reinforcement cages planned in 2D and 3D were compared with the sizes of the finally implanted cages. Factors that may potentially influence planning accuracy such as gender and body mass index (BMI) were analyzed. Results: There was a significant difference (p = 0.003) in the accuracy of correct size prediction between personalized 3D templating and 2D templating. Personalized 3D templating predicted the exact size of the reinforcement cage in 96.3% of the patients, while the exact size was predicted in only 55.6% by 2D templating. Regarding gender and BMI, no statistically significant differences in planning accuracy either for 2D or 3D templating were observed. Conclusion: Personalized 3D planning of revision hip arthroplasty using Burch Schneider reinforcement cages leads to greater accuracy in the prediction of the required size of implants than conventional 2D templating.
An Angiogenesis-Related lncRNA Signature Is Associated with Prognosis and Tumor Immune Microenvironment in Breast Cancer
Authors: Gao Shun , Wang Yuan , Xu Yingkun , Liu Shengchun
Published: March 2023

Angiogenesis is crucial in the development and progression of tumors. This study examined the relationship between angiogenesis-related lncRNAs (AR-lncRNAs) and breast cancer (BC) immunity and prognosis. We used univariate Cox regression analysis to obtain AR-lncRNAs closely related to BC prognosis. Cluster analysis of BC patients was performed using non-negative matrix factorization (NMF) analysis according to the expression of AR-lncRNAs that were prognostically relevant. An AR-lncRNA risk model (AR-lncM) was created using LASSO regression analysis to predict the prognosis and survival of BC patients. Subsequently, the effect of LINC01614 on cell migration and invasion was verified by Transwell and Western blot assays, and the CCK-8 assay detected its impact on cell sensitivity to tamoxifen. Finally, we obtained 17 AR-lncRNAs from the TCGA database that were closely associated with the prognosis of BC patients. Based on the expression of these AR-lncRNAs, BC patients were divided into five clusters using NMF analysis. Cluster 1 was found to have a better prognosis, higher expression of immune checkpoints, and higher levels of immune cell infiltration. Furthermore, an AR-LncM model was created using ten prognostic-related AR-lncRNAs. The model’s risk predictive performance was validated using survival analysis, timeROC curves, and univariate and multivariate Cox analysis. The most interesting gene in the model, LINC01614, was found to regulate epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and tamoxifen sensitivity in BC cells, implying that LINC01614 could be a potential therapeutic target for BC patients.
Angiographic Features and Clinical Outcomes of Balloon Uncrossable Lesions during Chronic Total Occlusion Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Karacsonyi Judit , Kostantinis Spyridon , Simsek Bahadir , Rempakos Athanasios , Allana Salman S. , Alaswad Khaldoon , Krestyaninov Oleg , Khatri Jaikirshan , Poommipanit Paul , Jaffer Farouc A. , Choi James , Patel Mitul , Gorgulu Sevket , Koutouzis Michalis , Tsiafoutis Ioannis , Sheikh Abdul M. , ElGuindy Ahmed , Elbarouni Basem , Patel Taral , Jefferson Brian , Wollmuth Jason R. , Yeh Robert , Karmpaliotis Dimitrios , Kirtane Ajay J. , McEntegart Margaret B. , Masoumi Amirali , Davies Rhian , Rangan Bavana V. , Mastrodemos Olga C. , Doshi Darshan , Sandoval Yader , Basir Mir B. , Megaly Michael S. , Ungi Imre , Abi Rafeh Nidal , Goktekin Omer , Brilakis Emmanouil S.
Published: March 2023

Background: Balloon uncrossable lesions are defined as lesions that cannot be crossed with a balloon after successful guidewire crossing. Methods: We analyzed the association between balloon uncrossable lesions and procedural outcomes of 8671 chronic total occlusions (CTOs) percutaneous coronary interventions (PCIs) performed between 2012 and 2022 at 41 centers. Results: The prevalence of balloon uncrossable lesions was 9.2%. The mean patient age was 64.2 ± 10 years and 80% were men. Patients with balloon uncrossable lesions were older (67.3 ± 9 vs. 63.9 ± 10, p < 0.001) and more likely to have prior coronary artery bypass graft surgery (40% vs. 25%, p < 0.001) and diabetes mellitus (50% vs. 42%, p < 0.001) compared with patients who had balloon crossable lesions. In-stent restenosis (23% vs. 16%. p < 0.001), moderate/severe calcification (68% vs. 40%, p < 0.001), and moderate/severe proximal vessel tortuosity (36% vs. 25%, p < 0.001) were more common in balloon uncrossable lesions. Procedure time (132 (90, 197) vs. 109 (71, 160) min, p < 0.001) was longer and the air kerma radiation dose (2.55 (1.41, 4.23) vs. 1.97 (1.10, 3.40) min, p < 0.001) was higher in balloon uncrossable lesions, while these lesions displayed lower technical (91% vs. 99%, p < 0.001) and procedural (88% vs. 96%, p < 0.001) success rates and higher major adverse cardiac event (MACE) rates (3.14% vs. 1.49%, p < 0.001). Several techniques were required for balloon uncrossable lesions. Conclusion: In a contemporary, multicenter registry, 9.2% of the successfully crossed CTOs were initially balloon uncrossable. Balloon uncrossable lesions exhibited lower technical and procedural success rates and a higher risk of complications compared with balloon crossable lesions.
The Impact of Uncertainty in Macroeconomic Variables on Stock Returns in the USA
Authors: Iania Leonardo , Collage Robbe , Vereycken Michiel
Published: March 2023

In this research paper, the impact of macroeconomic uncertainty on stock returns in the United States of America is examined. To measure this macroeconomic uncertainty, a survey of Consensus Economics with data ranging from 1989 until 2019 was employed. The survey consists of monthly forecasts for several macroeconomic variables for multiple countries. Four uncertainty measures were developed, based on the standard deviation, interquartile range, high-minus-low and an AR- and GARCH model. By performing linear regressions, a positive relationship between macroeconomic uncertainty and stock returns was identified for, on average, 13 out of 49 sectors, which is consistent with economic theory. Furthermore, the standard deviation of stock returns was regressed on macroeconomic uncertainty. A positive relationship was found for, on average, 41.7 out of 49 sectors. The results are discussed at a general level, at the level of the macroeconomic variables and at the sector level.
Emerging Market Default Risk Charge Model
Authors: Joseph Angelo D.
Published: March 2023

In a default event, several obligors simultaneously experience financial difficulty in servicing their debt to the point where the entire market can experience a sudden yet significant jump to a credit default. To help protect lenders against a jump-to-default event, regulators require banks to hold capital equivalent to the default risk charge as a buffer against the losses they may incur. The Basel regulatory committee has articulated and set default risk modelling guidelines to improve comparability amongst banks and enable a consistent bank-wide default risk charge estimation. Emerging markets are unique because they usually have illiquid markets and sparse data. Thus, implementing an emerging market default risk model and, at the same time, complying with the regulatory guidelines can be non-trivial. This research presents a framework for modelling the default risk charge in emerging markets in line with the regulatory requirements. The default correlation model inputs are derived and empirically calibrated using emerging market data. The paper ends with some considerations that regulators, supervisors, and banks can use to get financial institutions to adopt an emerging markets default risk charge model.
Automated and Optimized Regression Model for UWB Antenna Design
Authors: Pathan Sameena , Kumar Praveen , Ali Tanweer , Kumar Pradeep
Published: March 2023

Antenna design involves continuously optimizing antenna parameters to meet the desired requirements. Since the process is manual, laborious, and time-consuming, a surrogate model based on machine learning provides an effective solution. The conventional approach for selecting antenna parameters is mapped to a regression problem to predict the antenna performance in terms of S parameters. In this regard, a heuristic approach is employed using an optimized random forest model. The design parameters are obtained from an ultrawideband (UWB) antenna simulated using the high-frequency structure simulator (HFSS). The designed antenna is an embedded structure consisting of a circular monopole with a rectangle. The ground plane of the proposed antenna is reduced to realize the wider impedance bandwidth. The lowered ground plane will create a new current channel that affects the uniform current distribution and helps in achieving the wider impedance bandwidth. Initially, data were preprocessed, and feature extraction was performed using additive regression. Further, ten different regression models with optimized parameters are used to determine the best values for antenna design. The proposed method was evaluated by splitting the dataset into train and test data in the ratio of 60:40 and by employing a ten-fold cross-validation scheme. A correlation coefficient of 0.99 was obtained using the optimized random forest model.
The Impact of Topological Structure, Product Category, and Online Reviews on Co-Purchase: A Network Perspective
Authors: Gao Hongming
Published: March 2023

Understanding the relationships within product co-purchasing is crucial for designing effective cross-selling and recommendation systems in e-commerce. While researchers often detect co-purchase rules based on product attributes, this study explores the influence of consumer behavior preferences and electronic word-of-mouth (eWOM) on co-purchase formation by analyzing the topological network structure of products. Data were collected from a major Chinese e-retailer and analyzed using an exponential random graph model (ERGM) to identify the factors affecting the formation of follow-up purchases between products: the role of topological structure, product category, and online product reviews. The results showed that the co-purchase network was a sparse small-world network, with a product degree of centrality that positively impacted its sales volume within the network, suggesting a concentration effect. Cross-category purchases significantly contribute to the formation of co-purchase relationships, with a differential homophily effect. Positive ratings and review volumes were found to be key factors impacting this co-purchase formation. In addition, a higher inconsistency of positive ratings among products decreases the likelihood of co-purchase. These findings contribute to the literature on eWOM and electronic networks, and have valuable implications for e-commerce managers.
Improving Animal Wellbeing Using Behavior-Based Methodologies: A Discussion on Enrichment and Bears under Human Care
Authors: Babitz Mindy , Gibson Angela , Pratte Jason
Published: March 2023

This communication discusses the Bear Care Group’s “behavior-based” enrichment philosophy, focusing on the importance of enrichment programs built on the knowledge of species’ natural histories, living strategies, and observed daily and seasonal routines. Methods for program development are discussed, detailing the benefits to animal wellbeing, including the reduction of chronic stress and frustration that lead to abnormal or stereotypical behaviors. The concepts are illustrated through a discussion of bear natural history and living strategies, but these methods are applicable to a wide range of taxa. The Bear Care Group encourages facilities to consider behavior-based enrichment programs to promote positive welfare for their animals.
Hotel Rooftops as a Space for Consumption in Historic Centres: The Case Study of Palma (Spain)
Authors: Mercadé-Melé Pere , Almeida-García Fernando , Martinez-Garcia Aitor , Coll-Ramis Miquel Angel
Published: March 2023

This research analysed the transformation of hotel rooftops in the historic centre of Palma into new spaces for tourist consumption. Nowadays, tourists are looking for unique and special experiences, which has led tourist destinations to seek new attractions to offer. Rooftops are becoming privileged places and provide a differential experience, leading to an increase in the offer of tourist services on hotel rooftops. This study explored the change of use in hotel rooftops in historic city centres for the commercialization of tourism. In this sense, this research sheds light on the factors that influence the commodification of rooftops and the attributes that are most valued by users in Google Maps and TripAdvisor reviews of their experiences. Furthermore, the transformation of rooftops has not followed a single model of commodification, but different typologies were identified according to uses and access modalities. Finally, implications for the city’s tourism planning and management are presented.
Groundwater Urban Heat Island in Wrocław, Poland
Authors: Worsa-Kozak Magdalena , Arsen Adalbert
Published: March 2023

In the face of climate change and constantly progressing urbanization processes, so-called heat islands are observed with growing frequency. These phenomena are mainly characteristic of large cities, where increased air and land surface temperatures form an atmospheric (AUHI) or surface (SUHI) urban heat island (UHI). Moreover, UHIs have also been recognized in the underground environments of many cities worldwide, including groundwater (GUHI). However, this phenomenon is not yet as thoroughly studied as AUHI and SUHI. To recognize and characterize the thermal conditions beneath the city of Wrocław (SW, Poland), we analyze the groundwater temperature (GWT) of the first aquifer, measured in 64 wells in 2004–2005. The study aimed to identify groundwater urban heat islands (GUHI) in Wrocław. Therefore, we used a novel approach to gather data and analyze them in predefined seasonal periods. Meteorological data and satellite imagery from the same period allowed us to link GWT anomalies to the typical conditions that favor UHI formation. GWT anomaly related to the GUHI was identified in the central, urbanized part of Wrocław. Moreover, we found that the GUHI phenomenon occurs only seasonally during the winter, which is related to the city’s climate zone and anthropogenic heat sources. Comparing our results with previous works from other cities showed untypical behavior of the observed anomalies. In contrast to AUHI and SUHI temperatures, the GWT anomalies detected in Wrocław are characterized by seasonal transitions from a heat island in winter to a cold lake in summer. Such a transitional character of GUHI is described for the first time.
A Study of Historical Urban Landscape Layering in Luoyang Based on Historical Map Translation
Authors: Dong Shujing , Shen Danjie
Published: March 2023

China has undergone a tremendous urbanization process over the past four decades, resulting in a considerable conflict between the desire to construct contemporary urban areas and the desire to safeguard old urban structures. In addition to destroying the physical space of ancient urban sites, urban development has fragmented the natural landscape and severed its structural relationship with the historical urban landscape. In this study, we selected Luoyang as the research object and digitally translated and laminated the laminar process of Luoyang’s historical urban landscape based on historical maps and related historical documents. It is intended to establish a digital historical urban landscape information database comprising data from different periods of the city through the systematic translation of historic maps and through combining the following different landscape carriers: urban spatial patterns, roads and streets, landscape units, and landmark buildings. While reading the historical maps of the city, the spatial analysis tool, ArcGIS, was used to identify the trajectory of the spatial evolution of Luoyang’s spatial structure throughout its history. In this paper, we suggest the establishment of a Luoyang urban historical axis system to integrate the city’s fragmented historical urban landscape, thereby strengthening the social perception of such historical urban landscapes and preserving their memory.
The Conceptual Framework of Smart TOD: An Integration of Smart City and TOD
Authors: Bai Liwei , Xie Lelong , Li Chaoyang , Yuan Shengqiang , Niu Dening , Wang Tao , Yang Zheng , Zhang Yi
Published: March 2023

Smart City (SC) is a booming model of urban development with great potential, armed to be one of the urban development’s most powerful developing weapons. However, the development of SC is far from satisfactory. Therefore, finding new paths for SC becomes imperative. Transit Oriented Development (TOD), which often focuses on the core areas of SC, is believed to be a substantial contributor to the development of SC. Nonetheless, the relationship between SC and TOD and the effects of TOD in promoting SC are rarely studied. In this study, we proposed a conceptual framework of Smart TOD (S-TOD), which could highlight TOD 5.0 but more than that. S-TOD is an integration of SC and TOD, utilizing the deconstructive method and the abductive method. We first defined S-TOD, which integrates SC and TOD as the twin sources. Then, we employed the concept of Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) to construct S-TOD in a cross-boundary path as the connection between DNA and its twin subchains can perfectly reflect the inner relationship between S-TOD and its twin sources, SC and TOD. Finally, we built up the structure of S-TOD with three layers, i.e., the cloud layer, the tactile layer, and the land zones layer. The purpose of this paper is to enhance the practical value of SC, from a perspective that has been neglected, that is, the combination with TOD, provide a new perspective for the research and practice of the integration of SC and TOD, and effectively facilitate the advantages of SC and global sustainable development.
Homesteads, Identity, and Urbanization of Migrant Workers
Authors: Cheng Weite , Cheng Shuiyuan , Wu Haitao , Wu Qian
Published: March 2023

The key to advancing urbanization is to promote the urban integration of numerous migrant workers. Two stages of decision making are involved for migrant workers, including residence (staying in cities) and settlement (transferring hukou into cities). The homestead is a necessity for migrant workers to keep their “peasant” status, which will further affect migrant workers’ identification with cities and influence their decision making towards urbanization. This paper uses data from the 2017 China Migrants Dynamic Survey (CMDS), through the coarsened exact matching (CEM) method and the analysis of mediation effects, to estimate how homesteads influence migrant workers’ urbanization intention and how the sense of identity serves as a mediator variable in this mechanism. Empirical results show that the ownership of homesteads is negatively correlated with migrant workers’ urbanization intention. Migrant workers with homesteads are 1.2% less likely to stay and 4.4% less likely to settle down in cities compared with their counterparts who do not have a homestead. In addition, identity plays a mediating role in the influence mechanism of homesteads on migrant workers’ urbanization intention. That is, the homestead has an indirect effect on migrant workers’ willingness to stay and settle down in cites through the sense of identity, aside from its direct effects. The mediation effect accounts for 20.87% of the total effect for willingness to stay and 25.63% of the total effect for willingness to settle down. This paper also represents how these coefficients vary by different regions and migration distances. Therefore, policymakers should provide institutional support for correctly guiding migrant workers to “abandon their land and enter the city” and strengthen their sense of identity to the city.
Using Social Media to Determine the Global Distribution of Plastics in Birds’ Nests: The Role of Riverine Habitats
Authors: Gallitelli Luca , Battisti Corrado , Scalici Massimiliano
Published: March 2023

Plastics are widely distributed in all ecosystems with evident impacts on biodiversity. We aimed at examining the topic of plastic occurrence within bird nests. We conducted a systematic search on three social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter) to fill the gap of knowledge on plastic nests worldwide. As a result, we observed nests with plastics mostly belonging to synanthropic species inhabiting riverine habitats, mainly in Europe, North America, and Asia, with an increase in occurrence over the years. Two common and generalist freshwater species (Eurasian Coot Fulica atra and Swans Cygnus sp.) showed the highest frequency of occurrence of plastic debris. We suggest plastics in bird nests as a proxy for debris occurring in the environment. However, our data may be biased, due to our sample’s low representativeness. Therefore, more data are necessary to have more information on plastic distribution. In conclusion, social media might be pivotal in indicating plastic hotspot areas worldwide and being an indicator of plastic pollution within the environment.
UNESCO Global Geoparks 22 Years after Their Creation: Analysis of Scientific Production
Authors: Pérez-Romero Miriam Edith , Álvarez-García José , Flores-Romero Martha Beatriz , Jiménez-Islas Donaji
Published: March 2023

Geoparks are unique geographical areas whose geological significance is worthy of UNESCO designation as a Global Geopark. As of 2022, 177 geoparks located in 46 countries have this designation. The aim of this paper is to identify and analyse the worldwide scientific production published in the Web of Sciences database in the context of Geoparks. The methodology used was bibliometric analysis, which allows for the rigorous exploration and analysis of large volumes of data. To this end, descriptive and relational indicators were obtained for the field of study; performance analysis, scientific mapping, and network analysis. A total of 324 articles were identified, the first of which was from 1999 by Wolfgang Eder, in which he presented the UNESCO initiative on the creation of geoparks as a tool to promote a better understanding of the geological heritage and the rational use of the Earth’s crust; the rest of the articles were written after the programme was launched (2001). Few authors work on the subject continuously, the author with the highest number of publications has six, and most of the authors with a single authorship are transient. The countries with the highest number of publications are China, followed by Spain, Portugal, Brazil and Italy, where scientific production is concentrated; the high rate of transience indicates that many countries have only one publication. Most publications are concentrated in two journals: geoheritage and geosciences. In the early years (1999–2003), publications were associated with two research areas, geology and palaeontology, and it is in the last five years (2019–2002) that the areas of knowledge showing interest in the subject have diversified.
The Flow of Green Exercise, Its Characteristics, Mechanism, and Pattern in Urban Green Space Networks: A Case Study of Nangchang, China
Authors: Cai Zhenrao , Gao Dan , Xiao Xin , Zhou Linguo , Fang Chaoyang
Published: March 2023

An urban green space network provides safe and green exercise routes for residents. This study selected Nanchang as the study area. Using fitness application data, we explored the mobility of people exercising in the network, i.e., the flow of green exercise. Spatial analysis based on social networks, GIS, and the gravity model was used to analyze the nodes, network characteristics, and mechanism of the flow of green exercise. The results show that there were differences in the hierarchy and attractiveness of nodes. Distance had an important influence on green exercise. It was found that walkers moved between adjacent parks, runners visited more parks and corridors, while cyclists covered longer distances and preferred to explore suburban green spaces. The length of the exercise route in green spaces had a positive effect on mobility. Because of the many combinations of patches and corridors, three flow subnetworks were formed. In addition, the green space network expanded the scope of exercise services in the central node. The management of green spaces should pay attention to the social value of urban green space networks and create a hierarchical and interconnected green space for exercisers.
Developing Critical Language Awareness in the Heritage Language Classroom: Implementation and Assessment in Diverse Educational Contexts
Authors: Beaudrie Sara
Published: March 2023

The main goal of heritage language (HL) education is to empower learners to explore and develop their cultural and linguistic heritage [...]
Not Only Anteriority in the Past: The Functions of the Pluperfect in Spoken Italian
Authors: Morei Eleonora
Published: March 2023

Three distinct anaphoric functions and one deictic function are, with fair confidence, associated with the Italian Pluperfect in the existing literature. In recent studies, it has been hypothesized that the Italian Pluperfect may also have an aoristic use. The present study attempts to assess the semantics of the Italian Pluperfect, by a corpus-based methodology. It will be shown that the data do not support the hypothesis of an aoristic use of the Pluperfect: rather, they suggest the need to extend the analysis of the Pluperfect’s semantics to domains other than tense and aspect. It will be argued that (inter)subjectification may have a key role in describing the layered semantics of the Italian Pluperfect, especially concerning its possible modal-evidential developments.
Discovery and Anticancer Activity of the Plagiochilins from the Liverwort Genus Plagiochila
Authors: Bailly Christian
Published: March 2023

The present analysis retraces the discovery of plagiochilins A-to-W, a series of seco-aromadendrane-type sesquiterpenes isolated from diverse leafy liverworts of the genus Plagiochila. Between 1978, with the first isolation of the leader product plagiochilin A from P. yokogurensis, and 2005, with the characterization of plagiochilin X from P. asplenioides, a set of 24 plagiochilins and several derivatives (plagiochilide, plagiochilal A-B) has been isolated and characterized. Analogue compounds recently described are also evoked, such as the plagiochianins and plagicosins. All these compounds have been little studied from a pharmacological viewpoint. However, plagiochilins A and C have revealed marked antiproliferative activities against cultured cancer cells. Plagiochilin A functions as an inhibitor of the termination phase of cytokinesis: the membrane abscission stage. This unique, innovative mechanism of action, coupled with its marked anticancer action, notably against prostate cancer cells, make plagiochilin A an interesting lead molecule for the development of novel anticancer agents. There are known options to increase its potency, as deduced from structure–activity relationships. The analysis shed light on this family of bryophyte species and the little-known group of bioactive terpenoid plagiochilins. Plagiochilin A and derivatives shall be further exploited for the design of novel anticancer targeting the cytokinesis pathway.
Spectroscopic and Theoretical Analysis of the Interaction between Plasma Proteins and Phthalimide Analogs with Potential Medical Application
Authors: Krzyżak Edward , Kotynia Aleksandra , Szkatuła Dominika , Marciniak Aleksandra
Published: March 2023

One of the groups of organic compounds with potential use in medicine and pharmacy is phthalimide derivatives. They are characterized by a wide range of properties such as antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory. In this study, we focused on research on four phthalimide derivatives with proven non-toxicity, which are cyclooxygenase inhibitors. With the use of molecular docking study and spectroscopic methods, such as fluorescence, circular dichroism, and FT-IR spectroscopies, we analyzed the way the tested compounds interact with plasma proteins. Among the many proteins present in the plasma, we selected three: albumin, α1-acid glycoprotein, and gamma globulin, which play significant roles in the human body. The obtained results showed that all tested compounds bind to the analyzed proteins. They interact most strongly with albumin, which is a transport protein. However, interactions with serum albumin and orosomucoid do not cause significant changes in their structures. Only in the case of gamma globulins significant changes were observed in protein secondary structure.
Extensive Posterior Wall Isolation on Top of Pulmonary Vein Isolation Guided by Ablation Index in Persistent Atrial Fibrillation Ablation
Authors: Sabatino Francesco , Oriente Domenico , Fortunato Fabrizio , Cascino Antonio , Ferrara Giuliano , Sgarito Giuseppe , Conti Sergio
Published: March 2023

Background: Durable pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) is recommended for symptomatic paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) treatment, but it has been demonstrated that it may not be enough to treat persistent AF (Pe-AF). Therefore, posterior wall isolation (PWI) is among the strategies adopted on top of PVI to treat Pe-AF patients. However, PWI using contiguous and optimized radiofrequency lesions remains challenging, and few studies have evaluated the impact of the Ablation Index (AI) on the efficacy of PWI. Moreover, previous papers did not evaluate arrhythmia recurrences using continuous monitoring. Methods: This is a prospective, observational, single-center study on patients affected by Pe-AF undergoing treated PVI plus AI-guided PWI. Procedures were performed using the CARTO mapping system, SmartTouch SF ablation catheter, and PentaRay multipolar mapping catheter. The AI settings were 500–550 for the anterior PV aspect and roofline, while the settings were 450–500 for the posterior PV aspect, bottom line, and/or PW lesions. All patients received an implantable loop recorder (ILR). All patients underwent clinical evaluation in the outpatient clinic at 1, 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months. A standard 12-lead ECG was performed at each visit, and device data from the ILR were reviewed to assess for arrhythmia recurrence. Results: Between January 2021 and December 2021, forty-one consecutive patients underwent PVI plus PWI guided by AI at our center and were prospectively enrolled in the study. PVI was achieved in all patients, first-pass roofline block was obtained in 82.9% of the patients, and first-pass block of the bottom line was achieved in 36.5% of the patients. In 39% of the patients, PWI was not performed with a “box-only” lesion set, but with scattered lesions across the PW to achieve PWI. AI on the anterior aspect of the left PVs was 528 ± 22, while on the posterior aspect of the left PVs, it was 474 ± 18; on the anterior aspect of the right PVs, it was 532 ± 27, while on the posterior aspect of the right PVs, it was 477 ± 16; on the PW, AI was 468 ± 19. No acute complications occurred at the end of the procedure. After the blanking period, 70.7% of the patients reported no arrhythmia recurrence during the 12-month follow-up period. Conclusions: In patients with Pe-AF undergoing catheter ablation, PWI guided by AI seems to be an effective and feasible strategy in addition to standard PVI.
TMT-Based Proteomic Analysis of Continuous Cropping Response in Codonopsis tangshen Oliv.
Authors: Jiang Xiaogang , Zhou Wuxian , Wang Hua , You Jinwen , Liu Wenlu , Zhang Meide
Published: March 2023

The growth and development of Codonopsis tangshen, an important herb used in Chinese traditional medicine, have been seriously affected by continuous cropping obstacles. Therefore, understanding the molecular responses of C. tangshen to continuous cropping is imperative to improve its resistance to continuous cropping obstacles. Here, physiological and biochemical results showed that the levels of chlorophyll and malonaldehyde (MDA) were higher in the continuous cropping (LZ) group compared with those of the non-continuous cropping (FLZ) group, while superoxide dismutase (SOD) content was lower in the LZ group than in the FLZ group. Tandem mass tag (TMT)-based proteomic analysis was performed to investigate the response mechanism to continuous cropping obstacles in C. tangshen. A total of 70 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were significantly involved in relevant pathways, including photosynthesis, oxidative phosphorylation, ribosome activity, and secondary metabolites. The results suggest that these DEPs in C. tangshen might play a critical role in response to continuous cropping. These findings could provide scientific basis for improving C. tangshen’s resistance to continuous cropping obstacles.
Distinguishing Biotic vs. Abiotic Origins of ‘Bio’signatures: Clues from Messy Prebiotic Chemistry for Detection of Life in the Universe
Authors: Bapat Niraja V. , Rajamani Sudha
Published: March 2023

It is not a stretch to say that the search for extraterrestrial life is possibly the biggest of the cosmic endeavors that humankind has embarked upon. With the continued discovery of several Earth-like exoplanets, the hope of detecting potential biosignatures is multiplying amongst researchers in the astrobiology community. However, to be able to discern these signatures as being truly of biological origin, we also need to consider their probable abiotic origin. The field of prebiotic chemistry, which is aimed at understanding enzyme-free chemical syntheses of biologically relevant molecules, could particularly aid in this regard. Specifically, certain peculiar characteristics of prebiotically pertinent messy chemical reactions, including diverse and racemic product yields and lower synthesis efficiencies, can be utilized in analyzing whether a perceived ‘signature of life’ could possibly have chemical origins. The knowledge gathered from understanding the transition from chemistry to biology during the origin of life could be used for creating a library of abiotically synthesized biologically relevant organic molecules. This can then be employed in designing, standardizing, and testing mission-specific instruments/analysis systems, while also enabling the effective targeting of exoplanets with potentially ‘ongoing’ molecular evolutionary processes for robust detection of life in future explorative endeavors.
Embryonic Hyperglycemia Disrupts Myocardial Growth, Morphological Development, and Cellular Organization: An In Vivo Experimental Study
Authors: Jaime-Cruz Ricardo , Sánchez-Gómez Concepción , Villavicencio-Guzmán Laura , Lazzarini-Lechuga Roberto , Patiño-Morales Carlos César , García-Lorenzana Mario , Ramírez-Fuentes Tania Cristina , Salazar-García Marcela
Published: March 2023

Hyperglycemia during gestation can disrupt fetal heart development and increase postnatal cardiovascular disease risk. It is therefore imperative to identify early biomarkers of hyperglycemia during gestation-induced fetal heart damage and elucidate the underlying molecular pathomechanisms. Clinical investigations of diabetic adults with heart dysfunction and transgenic mouse studies have revealed that overexpression or increased expression of TNNI3K, a heart-specific kinase that binds troponin cardiac I, may contribute to abnormal cardiac remodeling, ventricular hypertrophy, and heart failure. Optimal heart function also depends on the precise organization of contractile and excitable tissues conferred by intercellular occlusive, adherent, and communicating junctions. The current study evaluated changes in embryonic heart development and the expression levels of sarcomeric proteins (troponin I, desmin, and TNNI3K), junctional proteins, glucose transporter-1, and Ki-67 under fetal hyperglycemia. Stage 22HH Gallus domesticus embryos were randomly divided into two groups: a hyperglycemia (HG) group, in which individual embryos were injected with 30 mmol/L glucose solution every 24 h for 10 days, and a no-treatment (NT) control group, in which individual embryos were injected with physiological saline every 24 h for 10 days (stage 36HH). Embryonic blood glucose, height, and weight, as well as heart size, were measured periodically during treatment, followed by histopathological analysis and estimation of sarcomeric and junctional protein expression by western blotting and immunostaining. Hyperglycemic embryos demonstrated delayed heart maturation, with histopathological analysis revealing reduced left and right ventricular wall thickness (−39% and −35% vs. NT). Immunoexpression levels of TNNI3K and troponin 1 increased (by 37% and 39%, respectively), and desmin immunofluorescence reduced (by 23%). Embryo-fetal hyperglycemia may trigger an increase in the expression levels of TNNI3K and troponin I, as well as dysfunction of occlusive and adherent junctions, ultimately inducing abnormal cardiac remodeling.
Relationship of FDG Uptake of the Reticuloendothelial System with Tumor Immune Microenvironment and Prognosis in Patients with Gastric Cancer
Authors: Ahn Hyein , Song Geum Jong , Lee Moon-Soo , Lee Ji-Hye , Jang Si-Hyong , Oh Mee-Hye , Yun Jong Hyuk , Lee Sang Mi , Lee Jeong Won
Published: March 2023

2-deoxy-2-[18F]fluoro-D-glucose (FDG) uptake of the reticuloendothelial system, including the bone marrow (BM) and spleen, on positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) has been shown to be a significant prognostic factor in diverse malignancies. However, the relationship between FDG uptake of the BM and spleen and histopathological findings, including the tumor immune microenvironment, has not been fully evaluated. This study aimed to investigate the relationship of FDG uptake in the BM and spleen with histopathological findings and recurrence-free survival (RFS) in patients with gastric cancer. Seventy patients with gastric cancer who underwent pre-operative FDG PET/CT and subsequent curative surgery were retrospectively enrolled. On image analysis, the BM-to-liver uptake ratio (BLR) and spleen-to-liver uptake ratio (SLR) were measured from PET/CT images, and on immunohistochemical analysis, the densities of immune cell infiltration in the tumor tissue were graded. The BLR and SLR showed significant positive correlations with the grades of CD163 cell and CD8 cell infiltration in the tumor tissue, respectively (p < 0.05). In multivariate survival analysis, both BLR and SLR were significant predictors of RFS (p < 0.05). FDG uptake in the BM and spleen might be potential imaging biomarkers for evaluating tumor immune microenvironment conditions and predicting RFS in patients with gastric cancer.
Tribological Performance of a Composite Cold Spray for Coated Bores
Authors: Tomanik Eduardo , Aubanel Laurent , Bussas Michael , Delloro Francesco , Lampke Thomas
Published: March 2023

The tribological performance of a thermal sprayed, mirror-like surface with localized protuberances was investigated through tribotests and computational simulation. A composite coating with a 410L steel matrix and M2 tool steel hard particles was applied by the cold spray process as a bore coating for combustion engines. The presence of protuberances promoted the quick formation of an antifriction tribofilm when tested with an SAE 0W-16 containing ZDDP and MoDTC, which significantly reduced the asperity friction in comparison to the conventional engine coated bores in reciprocating tribological tests. An in-house computational model using deterministic numerical methods was used for the mixed and hydrodynamic lubrication regime. Lubricant film thickness and friction were simulated for a piston ring versus the proposed coating. The computer simulations showed that the protuberances reduced the hydrodynamic friction by increasing the otherwise very thin oil film thickness of mirror-like surfaces. Although not intuitive, this result was caused by the reducing of the oil film shear rate.
The Influences of Different Parameters on the Static and Dynamic Performances of the Aerostatic Bearing
Authors: Zhang Jianbo , Deng Zhifang , Zhang Kun , Jin Hailiang , Yuan Tao , Chen Ce , Su Zhimin , Cao Yitao , Xie Zhongliang , Wu Danyang , Sui Jingping
Published: March 2023

Aerostatic bearings have been widely applied to high-rotating speed machines due to their low friction and high rotational speed advantages. The geometry parameters, supply pressure and rotational speed play important roles in the static and dynamic performances of the aerostatic bearings. In this paper, the steady state and dynamic Reynolds equations are solved by the finite difference method (FDM) and used to study the static and dynamic performances of the aerostatic bearings. Then, combined with the motion equation of the rigid rotor-aerostatic bearing system, the linear stability of the aerostatic bearing is also studied. Moreover, based on the theory mentioned above, the influences of the geometry parameters (such as orifice diameter, radial clearance and eccentricity), rotational speed and supply pressure are investigated in detail. It was found that aerostatic bearing geometries, rotational speed and supply pressure had a significant effect on the steady and dynamic performances. Under the low-speed conditions and high supple pressure, the static pressure effect plays the main role in the performances of the aerostatic bearings, while on the contrary, the rotational effect plays the main role. Furthermore, a half-speed whirl may generate under certain conditions. The results also provide useful design guidelines for aerostatic bearings in high-speed machines.
6-[(2S,3R)-3-(2,4-Difluorophenyl)-3-hydroxy-4-(1H-1,2,4-triazol-1-yl)butan-2-yl]-5-fluoropyrimidine-4-carbaldehyde
Authors: Sousa Joana L. C. , Albuquerque Hélio M. T. , Silva Artur M. S.
Published: March 2023

Voriconazole (VN) is an antifungal drug indicated for the treatment of several fungal infections. Due to its side effects, some works involving late-stage functionalization of VN have been reported in the literature. Here, we disclose a new VN derivative, the 6-[(2S,3R)-3-(2,4-difluorophenyl)-3-hydroxy-4-(1H-1,2,4-triazol-1-yl)butan-2-yl]-5-fluoropyrimidine-4-carbaldehyde (VN-CHO). This compound results from the photoredox-catalyzed hydroxymethylation of VN, affording a hydroxymethylated derivative (VN-CH2OH), followed by oxidation of the former CH2OH group. VN-CHO was obtained in good yield (70% yield) and its structure was unveiled by 1D (1H and 13C) and 2D (HSQC and HMBC) NMR techniques. The introduction of a formyl group in VN structure creates a very promising site for further functionalization in a molecule which originally does not have many active sites.
Thermal, Morphological and Mechanical Properties of a BioPE Matrix Composite: Case of Shell, Pulp, and Argan Cake as Biofillers
Authors: Zeghlouli Jihane , Schiavone Nicola , Askanian Haroutioun , Guendouz Amine , El Modafar Cherkaoui , Michaud Philippe , Delattre Cédric
Published: March 2023

Extrusion and hot compressing molding processes were used to create bio-polyethylene (BioPE) composites reinforced with argan byproducts (shell, pulp, and argan cake) as bio-fillers. The thermal stability of the composites wass analyzed by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Dynamical mechanical analysis and rheological testing were used to investigate their mechanical properties. The morphological results showed a good adhesion between the argan and BioPE matrix. More efficient mechanical properties have been distinguished in the case of argan byproduct-based composite. A higher Young’s modulus was noted for all the biocomposites compared to pure BioPE. Thermal analysis revealed that the addition of bio-filler to polymer reduced decomposition temperatures. This study provides an ecological alternative for upgrading the valorization of abundant and underutilized Moroccan biomass. Furthermore, the possibility of using argan byproducts in composite manufacturing will help open up new markets for what is currently considered waste.
Analysis of the Tensile Deformation Behaviors and Microstructure Characterization under Various Temperatures of MarBN Steel by EBSD
Authors: Zou Tongfei , Liu Meng , Cai Yifan , Wang Quanyi , Jiang Yunqing , Wang Yunru , Pei Yubing , Zhang Hong , Liu Yongjie , Wang Qingyuan
Published: March 2023

The uniaxial tensile behavior of MarBN steel with a constant strain rate of 5 × 10−5 s−1 under various temperatures ranging from room temperature to 630 °C was analyzed. This study aimed to identify the effect of the temperature on the tensile behavior and to understand the microstructure deformation by electron backscatter diffraction. The tensile results showed that the yield and ultimate tensile strength decreased with increasing temperature. Serrated flow was observed from 430 °C to 630 °C. The electron backscatter diffraction analysis showed that the low-angle grain boundaries decreased at the medium deformation and increased at the maximum deformation. In contrast, they decreased with increasing temperatures. In addition, the number of voids increased with the increasing plastic strain. As the strain increased, the voids joined together, and the tiny cracks became larger and failed. Three mechanisms were responsible for the tensile deformation failure at various temperatures: grain rotation, the formation and rearrangement of low angle grain boundaries, and void nucleation and propagation. Finally, the formation of the low-angle grain boundaries and voids under different degrees of deformation is discussed.
Mg Doping of N-Polar, In-Rich InAlN
Authors: Kuzmík Ján , Pohorelec Ondrej , Hasenöhrl Stanislav , Blaho Michal , Stoklas Roman , Dobročka Edmund , Rosová Alica , Kučera Michal , Gucmann Filip , Gregušová Dagmar , Precner Marian , Vincze Andrej
Published: March 2023

Metal organic chemical vapor deposition was used to grow N-polar In0.63Al0.37N on sapphire substrates. P-doping was provided by a precursor flow of Cp2Mg between 0 and 130 nmol/min, reaching a Cp2Mg/III ratio of 8.3 × 10−3. The grain structure of 360 nm thick InAlN was spoiled by pits after introducing a flow of CP2Mg at 30 nmol/min. The surface quality was improved with a flow of 80 nmol/min; however, detrimental deterioration appeared at 130 nmol/min. This correlated with the XRD shape and determined density of dislocations, indicating a phase separation at the highest flow. Degenerated n-type conduction and a free carrier concentration of ~1019 cm−3 were determined in all samples, with a minor compensation observed at a CP2Mg flow of 30 nmol/min. The room temperature (RT) electron mobility of ~40 cm2/Vs of the undoped sample was reduced to ~6 and ~0.3 cm2/Vs with a CP2Mg flow of 30 and 80 nmol/min, respectively. Scattering at ionized acceptor/donor Mg-related levels is suggested. RT photoluminescence showed a red shift of 0.22 eV from the virgin 1.73 eV peak value with Mg doping. Mobility degradation was found to be the main factor by InAlN resistivity determination, which increased by two orders of magnitude, approaching ~0.5 Ωcm, at the highest Cp2Mg flow.