bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling and Two-Step Homogenization of Aperiodic Heterogenous 3D Four-Directional Braided Composites
Authors: Dhimole Vivek Kumar , Chen Yanqin , Cho Chongdu
Published: November 2020

The mechanical properties of the material are essential to identify the material behavior of the structure. Predicting four-directional braided composites’ mechanical properties based on accurate modeling is an essential issue among researchers. In this research, the principle of minimum energy loss-based mechanics of structure genome was used for the two-step homogenization of three-dimensional (3D) four-directional braided composites. In the first step homogenization, the micro-scale model’s effective mechanical properties were decided by considering fibers and matrix; in the second step homogenization, the final effective mechanical properties of the meso-scale model were obtained by considering yarns and matrix. TexGen python script was implemented for accurate modeling of 3D four-directional braided cells with jamming effects. The current process sustainability was validated for 3D four-directional braided polymer matrix composites (PMCs) material by available finite element analysis (FEA) and experimental literature. The method is further extended for 3D four-directional braided ceramic matrix composites (CMCs) to confirm its versatility for standard composites. A commercial FEA was also performed on the meso-scale braided cell to validate the two-step homogenization results. This research explored fast and more accurate modeling and analysis techniques for 3D four-directional braided composites.
PoC (Proof of Concept) for Performance Monitoring Platform of Container Terminals
Authors: Park Nam Kyu , Lee Jung Hun
Published: November 2020

The purpose of this study is to prove the concept of the performance monitoring system of container terminals. PoC (Proof of Concept) is a realization of a certain method or idea in order to demonstrate its feasibility. The port authorities, such as government or local authority, are continually checking the performance of the terminals they invested in and want to reflect it in the development policy. They also want to increase competitiveness by checking performance levels, such as port handling volume, calling ships, resource utilization, and congestion. PPI (Port performance indicators) are classified into four categories: output (production), productivity, utilization, and service. In this study, 15 monitoring indicators for each stage by dividing the process from the ship’s entry to departure are defined. Four indicators, such as ship waiting ratio at anchorage, berth occupancy, storage occupancy, and truck turnaround time, are selected as PoC of monitoring platform. In addition, a method of collecting, processing, and expressing data on these four indicators in real time is presented. There are three steps to create PPI on monitoring platform. The information required for PPI is to be collected from the Port-MIS (Management Information System) and TOS (Terminal Operating System) databases. Second, the collected data from external entities are stored into the database after verification and classification. Third, descriptive PPI, predictive PPI are generated based on the input data. This study provides a 4-tier framework from the conceptual platform with the key elements of data presentation, data process and data interface and middleware. As a result of the study, it is proved to select monitoring indicators, define external entities, define internal elements of the system, develop systems, and present indicator results. However, in the process of collecting data outside the system, we have found there is confidential data of individual terminals. To this end, it is important to establish a mutual cooperation system for data collection.
Of Mice and Fungi: Coccidioides spp. Distribution Models
Authors: Ocampo-Chavira Pamela , Eaton-Gonzalez Ricardo , Riquelme Meritxell
Published: November 2020

The continuous increase of Coccidioidomycosis cases requires reliable detection methods of the causal agent, Coccidioides spp., in its natural environment. This has proven challenging because of our limited knowledge on the distribution of this soil-dwelling fungus. Knowing the pathogen’s geographic distribution and its relationship with the environment is crucial to identify potential areas of risk and to prevent disease outbreaks. The maximum entropy (Maxent) algorithm, Geographic Information System (GIS) and bioclimatic variables were combined to obtain current and future potential distribution models (DMs) of Coccidioides and its putative rodent reservoirs for Arizona, California and Baja California. We revealed that Coccidioides DMs constructed with presence records from one state are not well suited to predict distribution in another state, supporting the existence of distinct phylogeographic populations of Coccidioides. A great correlation between Coccidioides DMs and United States counties with high Coccidioidomycosis incidence was found. Remarkably, under future scenarios of climate change and high concentration of greenhouse gases, the probability of habitat suitability for Coccidioides increased. Overlap analysis between the DMs of rodents and Coccidioides, identified Neotoma lepida as one of the predominant co-occurring species in all three states. Considering rodents DMs would allow to implement better surveillance programs to monitor disease spread.
Amphotericin B and Other Polyenes—Discovery, Clinical Use, Mode of Action and Drug Resistance
Authors: Carolus Hans , Pierson Siebe , Lagrou Katrien , Van Dijck Patrick
Published: November 2020

Although polyenes were the first broad spectrum antifungal drugs on the market, after 70 years they are still the gold standard to treat a variety of fungal infections. Polyenes such as amphotericin B have a controversial image. They are the antifungal drug class with the broadest spectrum, resistance development is still relatively rare and fungicidal properties are extensive. Yet, they come with a significant host toxicity that limits their use. Relatively recently, the mode of action of polyenes has been revised, new mechanisms of drug resistance were discovered and emergent polyene resistant species such as Candida auris entered the picture. This review provides a short description of the history and clinical use of polyenes, and focusses on the ongoing debate concerning their mode of action, the diversity of resistance mechanisms discovered to date and the most recent trends in polyene resistance development.
Influences of the Culturing Media in the Virulence and Cell Wall of Sporothrix schenckii, Sporothrix brasiliensis, and Sporothrix globosa
Authors: Lozoya-Pérez Nancy E. , Clavijo-Giraldo Diana M. , Martínez-Duncker Iván , García-Carnero Laura C. , López-Ramírez Luz A. , Niño-Vega Gustavo A. , Mora-Montes Héctor M.
Published: November 2020

Sporothrix schenckii, Sporothrix brasiliensis, and Sporothrix globosa are etiological agents of sporotrichosis, a human subcutaneous mycosis. Although the protocols to evaluate Sporothrix virulence in animal models are well described, the cell preparation before inoculation is not standardized, and several culturing media are used to grow yeast-like cells. Here, we found that carbon or nitrogen limitation during fungal cell preparation negatively impacted the ability of S. schenckii and S. brasiliensis to kill Galleria mellonella larvae, but not S. globosa. The fungal growth conditions associated with the short median survival of animals were accompanied by increased hemocyte countings, phenoloxidase activity, and cytotoxicity. The fungal growth under carbon or nitrogen limitation also affected the cell wall composition of both S. schenckii and S. brasiliensis and showed increased exposure of β-1,3-glucan at the cell surface, while those growing conditions had a minimal impact on the S.globosa wall, which had higher levels of this polysaccharide exposed on the wall regardless of the culture condition. This polysaccharide exposure was linked to the increased ability of insect hemocytes to uptake fungal cells, suggesting that this is one of the mechanisms behind the lower virulence of S.globosa or cells from the other species grown in carbon or nitrogen limitation.
The Synergistic Effect of Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) Polymorphisms and Metabolic Syndrome on Coronary Artery Disease in the Korean Population
Authors: Park Han Sung , Sung Jung-Hoon , Ryu Chang Soo , Lee Jeong Yong , Ko Eun Ju , Kim In Jai , Kim Nam Keun
Published: November 2020

The most common type of cardiovascular disease is coronary artery disease (CAD), in which a plaque builds up inside the coronary arteries that can lead to a complete blockage of blood flow to the heart, resulting in a heart attack. The CAD may be affected by various factors including age, gender, and lipoprotein disposition as well as genetic factors and metabolic syndrome. In this study, we investigated whether three PAI-1 polymorphisms (−844 G > A, −675 4G > 5G, and +43 G > A) and CAD-related clinical parameters are associated with CAD susceptibility. Genotyping of 463 CAD patients and 401 controls was performed using polymerase chain reaction restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis. We report that the 4G5G genotype (crude odds ratio(COR), 1.392; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.036–1.871; p = 0.028) and dominant model (4G4G vs. 4G5G + 5G5G; COR, 1.401; 95% CI, 1.060–1.850; p = 0.018; adjust odds ratio, 1.371; 95% CI, 1.027–1.831; p = 0.032) of PAI-1 −675 polymorphisms were associated with increased CAD risk. Haplotype and genotype combinations of PAI-1 −675 and +43 polymorphisms show an increased risk of CAD according to alterations of the −675 polymorphism allele or genotype. Moreover, the PAI-1 -675 polymorphisms show a synergistic effect with the metabolic syndrome component of CAD risk. This study suggests that polymorphisms in the PAI-1 genes along with the metabolic syndrome component of CAD can be useful biomarkers for CAD diagnosis and treatment.
Coronectomy of Mandibular Third Molar: Four Years of Follow-Up of 130 Cases
Authors: Cosola Saverio , Kim Young Sam , Park Young Min , Giammarinaro Enrica , Covani Ugo
Published: November 2020

Inferior wisdom teeth extraction surgery may have some complications that, in some cases, could be prevented by a correct diagnosis and minimal surgery. Coronectomy is a technique used for wisdom teeth surgery where only the crown is extracted and the root/roots are left in situ. This procedure may be controversial, but it could limit the common risks of the extraction procedure. Nowadays, the indication and contraindication of this technique are debated, and clinicians normally extract the entire tooth. The following case series includes the data and follow-up radiographs of 130 patients who received a coronectomy, reporting the safety of the procedure. After a mean follow-up period of four years, no complications occurred. A total of 13 patients showed mobile roots but had no complications or symptoms. The roots migrated in a mesial or coronal direction in 31 patients; in 4 cases, they were removed because of patient preference. Coronectomy is a useful oral surgical procedure in certain complicated cases of mandibular wisdom tooth extraction.
Toll-Like Receptor-4 Is Involved in Mediating Intestinal and Extra-Intestinal Inflammation in Campylobacter coli-Infected Secondary Abiotic IL-10−/− Mice
Authors: Kløve Sigri , Genger Claudia , Weschka Dennis , Mousavi Soraya , Bereswill Stefan , Heimesaat Markus M.
Published: November 2020

Human Campylobacter infections are emerging worldwide and constitute significant health burdens. We recently showed that the immunopathological sequelae in Campylobacter jejuni-infected mice were due to Toll-like receptor (TLR)-4 dependent immune responses induced by bacterial lipooligosaccharide (LOS). Information regarding the molecular mechanisms underlying Campylobacter coli-host interactions are scarce, however. Therefore, we analyzed C. coli-induced campylobacteriosis in secondary abiotic IL-10−/− mice with and without TLR4. Mice were infected perorally with a human C. coli isolate or with a murine commensal Escherichia coli as apathogenic, non-invasive control. Independent from TLR4, C. coli and E. coli stably colonized the gastrointestinal tract, but only C. coli induced clinical signs of campylobacteriosis. TLR4−/− IL-10−/− mice, however, displayed less frequently fecal blood and less distinct histopathological and apoptotic sequelae in the colon versus IL-10−/− counterparts on day 28 following C. coli infection. Furthermore, C. coli-induced colonic immune cell responses were less pronounced in TLR4−/− IL-10−/− as compared to IL-10−/− mice and accompanied by lower pro-inflammatory mediator concentrations in the intestines and the liver of the former versus the latter. In conclusion, our study provides evidence that TLR4 is involved in mediating C. coli-LOS-induced immune responses in intestinal and extra-intestinal compartments during murine campylobacteriosis.
Natural Phenolic Acid, Product of the Honey Bee, for the Control of Oxidative Stress, Peritoneal Angiogenesis, and Tumor Growth in Mice
Authors: Oršolić Nada , Kunštić Martina , Kukolj Marina , Odeh Dyana , Ančić Daniela
Published: November 2020

Tumor-associated macrophages (TAM) are key regulators of the link between inflammation and cancer, and the interplay between TAM and tumor cells represents a promising target of future therapeutic approaches. We investigated the effect of gallic acid (GA) and caffeic acid (CA) as strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents on tumor growth, angiogenesis, macrophage polarization, and oxidative stress on the angiogenic model caused by the intraperitoneal (ip) inoculation of Ehrlich ascites tumor (EAT) cells (2.5 × 106) in Swiss albino mouse. Treatment with GA or CA at a dose of 40 mg/kg and 80 mg/kg ip was started in exponential tumor growth phase on days 5, 7, 9, and 11. On day 13, the ascites volume and the total number and differential count of the cells present in the peritoneal cavity, the functional activity of macrophages, and the antioxidant and anti-angiogenic parameters were determined. The results show that phenolic acids inhibit the processes of angiogenesis and tumor growth, leading to the increased survival of EAT-bearing mice, through the protection of the tumoricidal efficacy of M1 macrophages and inhibition of proangiogenic factors, particularly VEGF, metalloproteinases -2 and -9, and cyclooxygenase-2 activity.
Proton Dynamics in Palladium–Silver: An Inelastic Neutron Scattering Investigation
Authors: Colognesi Daniele , Demmel Franz , Filabozzi Alessandra , Pietropaolo Antonino , Pozio Alfonso , Romanelli Giovanni , Santucci Alessia , Tosti Silvano
Published: November 2020

Proton dynamics in Pd77Ag23 membranes is investigated by means of various neutron spectroscopic techniques, namely Quasi Elastic Neutron Scattering, Incoherent Inelastic Neutron Scattering, Neutron Transmission, and Deep Inelastic Neutron Scattering. Measurements carried out at the ISIS spallation neutron source using OSIRIS, MARI and VESUVIO spectrometers were performed at pressures of 1, 2, and 4 bar, and temperatures in the 330–673 K range. The energy interval spanned by the different instruments provides information on the proton dynamics in a time scale ranging from about 102 to 10−4 ps. The main finding is that the macroscopic diffusion process is determined by microscopic jump diffusion. In addition, the vibrational density of states of the H atoms in the metal lattice has been determined for a number of H concentrations and temperatures. These measurements follow a series of neutron diffraction experiments performed on the same sample and thus provide a complementary information for a thorough description of structural and dynamical properties of H-loaded Pd-Ag membranes.
Quantitative Comparison of the Marker Compounds in Different Medicinal Parts of Morus alba L. Using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography-Diode Array Detector with Chemometric Analysis
Authors: Kim Jung-Hoon , Doh Eui-Jeong , Lee Guemsan
Published: November 2020

It is thought that the therapeutic efficacy of Morus alba L. is determined by its biological compounds. We investigated the chemical differences in the medicinal parts of M. alba by analyzing a total of 57 samples (15 root barks, 11 twigs, 12 fruits, and 19 leaves). Twelve marker compounds, including seven flavonoids, two stilbenoids, two phenolic acids, and a coumarin, were quantitatively analyzed using a high-performance liquid chromatography-diode array detector and chemometric analyses (principal component and heatmap analysis). The results demonstrated that the levels and compositions of the marker compounds varied in each medicinal part. The leaves contained higher levels of six compounds, the root barks contained higher levels of four compounds, and the twigs contained higher levels of two compounds. The results of chemometric analysis showed clustering of the samples according to the medicinal part, with the marker compounds strongly associated with each part: mulberroside A, taxifolin, kuwanon G, and morusin for the root barks; 4-hydroxycinnamic acid and oxyresveratrol for the twigs and skimmin; chlorogenic acid, rutin, isoquercitrin, astragalin, and quercitrin for the leaves. Our approach plays a fundamental role in the quality evaluation and further understanding of biological actions of herbal medicines derived from various medicinal plant parts.
Dietary Habits and Psychological States during COVID-19 Home Isolation in Italian College Students: The Role of Physical Exercise
Authors: Amatori Stefano , Donati Zeppa Sabrina , Preti Antonio , Gervasi Marco , Gobbi Erica , Ferrini Fabio , Rocchi Marco B. L. , Baldari Carlo , Perroni Fabrizio , Piccoli Giovanni , Stocchi Vilberto , Sestili Piero , Sisti Davide
Published: November 2020

Social isolation has adverse effects on mental health, physical exercise, and dietary habits. This longitudinal observational study aimed to investigate the effects of mood states and exercise on nutritional choices, on 176 college students (92 males, 84 females; 23 ± 4 years old) during the COVID-19 lockdown. During 21 days, nutrition and exercise were daily monitored, and the mood states assessed. A factor analysis was used to reduce the number of nutritional variables collected. The relationships between exercise, mood and nutrition were investigated using a multivariate general linear model and a mediation model. Seven factors were found, reflecting different nutritional choices. Exercise was positively associated with fruit, vegetables and fish consumption (p = 0.004). Depression and quality of life were, directly and inversely, associated with cereals, legumes (p = 0.005; p = 0.004) and low-fat meat intake (p = 0.040; p = 0.004). Exercise mediated the effect of mood states on fruit, vegetables and fish consumption, respectively, accounting for 4.2% and 1.8% of the total variance. Poorer mood states possibly led to unhealthy dietary habits, which can themselves be linked to negative mood levels. Exercise led to healthier nutritional choices, and mediating the effects of mood states, it might represent a key measure in uncommon situations, such as home-confinement.
Recent Development of Resonance-Based Optical Sensors and Biosensors
Authors: Chiavaioli Francesco
Published: November 2020

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Celecoxib Loaded In-Situ Provesicular Powder and Its In-Vitro Cytotoxic Effect for Cancer Therapy: Fabrication, Characterization, Optimization and Pharmacokinetic Evaluation
Authors: Nasr Ali M. , Elhady Sameh S. , Swidan Shady A. , Badawi Noha M.
Published: November 2020

Introduction: Several recent studies have shown that the role of cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) in carcinogenesis has become more evident. It affects angiogenesis, apoptosis, and invasion, and plays a key role in the production of carcinogens. It has also been reported that COX-2 inhibitors such as celecoxib (CLX) might play an effective role in preventing cancer formation and progression. Formulation of CLX into nanovesicles is a promising technique to improve its bioavailability and anticancer efficacy. Aim: The aim of this study is to optimize and evaluate the anticancer efficacy of CLX-loaded in-situ provesicular powder composed of surfactants and fatty alcohol-based novel nanovesicles in-vitro and determine its pharmacokinetic parameters in-vivo. Methods: The novel provesicular powders were prepared by the slurry method and optimized by 32 full factorial design using the desirability function. Results: Small mean particle size was achieved by the formed vesicles with value of 351.7 ± 1.76 nm and high entrapment efficacy of CLX in the formed vesicles of 97.53 ± 0.84%. Solid state characterization of the optimized formulation showed that the powder was free flowing, showed no incompatibilities between drug and excipients and showed smooth texture. The cytotoxic study of the optimized formula on HCT-116, HepG-2, A-549, PC-3 and MCF-7 cell lines showed significant increase in activity of CLX compared to its free form. The pharmacokinetic study on albino rabbits after oral administration showed significant increase in the area under the curve (AUC)0–24 h and significantly higher oral relative bioavailability of the optimized formulation compared to Celebrex® 100 mg market product (p < 0.05). Conclusion: All findings of this study suggest the potential improvement of efficacy and bioavailability of CLX when formulated in the form of in-situ provesicular powder composed of surfactants and fatty alcohol-based novel nanovesicles for its repositioned use as an anticancer agent.
Coherent Beam Combining Using an Internally Sensed Optical Phased Array of Frequency-Offset Phase Locked Lasers
Authors: Roberts Lyle , Ward Robert , Smith Craig , Shaddock Daniel
Published: November 2020

Coherent beam combining can be used to scale optical power and enable mechanism-free beam steering using an optical phased array. Coherently combining multiple free-running lasers in a leader-follower laser configuration is challenging due to the need to measure and stabilize large and highly dynamic phase differences between them. We present a scalable technique based on frequency-offset phase locking and digitally enhanced interferometry to clone the coherence of multiple lasers without the use of external sampling optics, which has the potential to support both coherent and spectral beam combining, and alleviates issues of voltage wrapping associated with actuating feedback control using electro-optic modulators. This technique was demonstrated experimentally using a tiled-aperture optical phased array in which the relative output phase of three free-running lasers was stabilized with an RMS output phase stability of λ/104.
Molecular Dissection of Cucumis metuliferus Resistance against Papaya Ringspot Virus by Grafting
Authors: Chen Jen-Ren , Ou Shang-Ling , Nieh Ting-Iun , Lu Chih-Yu , Ku Hsin-Mei
Published: November 2020

Vegetable crops of the genus Cucumis are very popular worldwide and have great market value. However, their fruit quality and yield are hindered by viral diseases. C. metuliferus is considered a wild species with resistance to viral diseases that is lacking in cultivated crops of the Cucumis genus, such as melon. The C. metuliferus line L37 shows extreme resistance against Papaya ringspot virus (PRSV-HA), whereas line L35 is a susceptible line. In this study, reciprocal grafting experiments between L35 and L37 were performed, and the PRSV-HA strain was pre-inoculated in the rootstock leaves. The results revealed that the resistance signal in the L37 rootstock could transmit and provide resistance to the L35 scion. Subsequently, double sandwich grafting was performed using the pre-inoculated L35 as the rootstock, which was then grafted onto the L37 intermediate and the L35 scion. The results showed that PRSV-HA RNA accumulated in the L35 rootstock leaf, petiole, and stem tissues, whereas PRSV-HA RNA accumulated in some intermediate and scion petiole and stem tissues. No HCPro RNA was detected in the L35 scion leaves. The results showed that the suppression of the virus occurred in the leaves, and the resistance effect spread from the rootstock in the scion direction. Hence, this study has demonstrated that RNA silencing of systemic signals is responsible for L37 resistance against PRSV. C. metuliferus L37 could provide a valuable resistance source for crops of the Cucumis species against viral diseases through grafting.
Determination of the Variability of Biophenols and Mineral Nutrients in Olive Leaves with Respect to Cultivar, Collection Period and Geographical Location for Their Targeted and Well-Timed Exploitation
Authors: Lukić Igor , Pasković Igor , Žurga Paula , Majetić Germek Valerija , Brkljača Mia , Marcelić Šime , Ban Dean , Grozić Kristina , Lukić Marina , Užila Zoran , Goreta Ban Smiljana
Published: November 2020

The interactive effects of cultivar, collecting period, and geographical location on the content and composition of biophenols and macro and micronutrients in olive (Olea europaea L.) leaf were investigated. Leaves of six cultivars were collected at three periods in two locations in Croatia. The leaves of Istarska bjelica cultivar had the greatest biophenol (oleuropein) potential, especially those sampled in January and in March at the location of Pag. All the cultivars yielded leaves with the highest concentration of biophenols in March, which coincided with the pruning period. Except for high oleuropein concentration in Istarska bjelica, flavonoids were found to be most useful for differentiating olive leaves according to cultivar. Verbascoside turned out to be the most potent differentiator of collecting periods, while phosphorus and zinc turned out to be most useful for differentiating locations. Despite different agroecological conditions at the two locations, cultivar exhibited a significant effect on olive leaf nutrient composition, which was certainly causally related to that of the biophenols. The results obtained showed that it is possible to plan more well-timed and efficient exploitation of biophenols from olive leaf based on the knowledge about the interactive effects of the three studied factors.
Synthesis and Characterization of the Novel Nε-9-Fluorenylmethoxycarbonyl-l-Lysine N-Carboxy Anhydride. Synthesis of Well-Defined Linear and Branched Polypeptides
Authors: Athanasiou Varvara , Thimi Pandora , Liakopoulou Melina , Arfara Foteini , Stavroulaki Dimitra , Kyroglou Iro , Skourtis Dimitrios , Stavropoulou Ioanna , Christakopoulos Panagiotis , Kasimatis Maria , Fragouli Panagiota G. , Iatrou Hermis
Published: November 2020

The synthesis of well-defined polypeptides exhibiting complex macromolecular architectures requires the use of monomers that can be orthogonally deprotected, containing primary amines that will be used as the initiator for the Ring Opening Polymerization (ROP) of N-carboxy anhydrides. The synthesis and characterization of the novel monomer Nε-9-Fluorenylmethoxycarbonyl-l-Lysine N-carboxy anhydride (Nε-Fmoc-l-Lysine NCA), as well as the novel linear Poly(Nε-Fmoc-l-Lys)n homopolypeptide and Poly(l-Lysine)78–block–[Poly(l-Lysine)10–graft–Poly(l-Histidine)15] block-graft copolypeptide, are presented. The synthesis of the graft copolypeptide was conducted via ROP of the Nε-Boc-l-Lysine NCA while using n-hexylamine as the initiator, followed by the polymerization of Nε-Fmoc-l-Lysine NCA. The last block was selectively deprotected under basic conditions, and the resulting ε-amines were used as the initiating species for the ROP of Nim-Trityl-l-Histidine NCA. Finally, the Boc- and Trt- groups were deprotected by TFA. High Vacuum Techniques were applied to achieve the conditions that are required for the synthesis of well-defined polypeptides. The molecular characterization indicated that the polypeptides exhibited high degree of molecular and compositional homogeneity. Finally, Dynamic Light Scattering, ζ-potential, and Circular Dichroism measurements were used in order to investigate the ability of the polypeptide to self-assemble in different conditions. This monomer opens avenues for the synthesis of polypeptides with complex macromolecular architectures that can define the aggregation behavior, and, therefore, can lead to the synthesis of “smart” stimuli-responsive nanocarriers for controlled drug delivery applications.
Tailoring Intrinsic Properties of Polyaniline by Functionalization with Phosphonic Groups
Authors: Martínez-Sánchez Beatriz , Cazorla-Amorós Diego , Morallón Emilia
Published: November 2020

Phosphonated polyanilines were synthesized by copolymerization of aniline (ANI) with both 2- and 4-aminophenylphosphonic acids (APPA). The material composition and the final properties of the copolymers can be easily tailored by controlling the monomers ANI/APPA molar feed ratio. An important influence on the reactivity of monomers has been found with the substituent position in the ring, leading to differences in the properties and size of blocks of each monomer in the polymer. As expected, while 2APPA shows more similarities to ANI, 4APPA is much less reactive. Phosphorus loading of ~5 at% was achieved in the poly(aniline-co-2-aminophenylphosphonic acid) (PANI2APPA) with a 50/50 molar feed ratio. All the resulting copolymers were characterized by different techniques. Experimental results and density functional theory (DFT) computational calculations suggest that the presence of phosphonic groups in the polymeric chain gives rise to inter- and intra-chain interactions, as well as important steric effects, which induce a slight twist in the substituted PANI structure. Therefore, the physicochemical, electrical, and electrochemical properties are modified and can be suitably controlled.
Durability of PS-Polyurethane Dedicated for Composite Strengthening Applications in Masonry and Concrete Structures
Authors: Kwiecień Konrad , Kwiecień Arkadiusz , Stryszewska Teresa , Szumera Magdalena , Dudek Marta
Published: November 2020

Polyurethane flexible joints (PUFJ) and fiber reinforced polyurethanes (FRPU) have shown great potential in the repair and protection of masonry and concrete structures. However, some questions have been raised about the durability of such solutions. The accelerated weathering and thermal stability tests carried out so far have shown the mechanical stability of PS-polyurethane in temperatures up to 100 °C and some UV-induced surface degradation. The paper reports the results from tensile tests of PS-polyurethane, used in the technologies mentioned above after being subjected to aging in different corrosive factors, a thermal analysis of unaged polymer which consists of DSC-TGA and dilatometry studies, and SEM-microscopy observation of the specimens with the indication of the elemental composition (EDS). PS-polyurethane showed low sensitivity to weathering with exposition to UV-radiation, some reactiveness to aqueous environments of a different chemical nature, and resistivity to soil and freezing in both air and water. SEM observations indicated changes in the composition of mineral fillers as the main effect of immersion in different water solutions. DSC-TGA studies showed the thermal stability of PS-polyurethane up to 200 °C and degradation proceeding in five stages. Dilatometry studies revealed that the first-degree thermal degradation over 200 °C causes a serious loss of mechanical properties.
An Overview of Exosomes in Cancer Therapy: A Small Solution to a Big Problem
Authors: Rodrigues Paulo , Melim Catarina , Veiga Francisco , Figueiras Ana
Published: November 2020

Exosomes are defined as a type of extracellular vesicle released when multivesicular bodies of the endocytic pathway fuse with the plasma membrane. They are characterized by their role in extracellular communication, partly due to their composition, and present the ability to recognize and interact with cells from the immune system, enabling an immune response. Their targeting capability and nanosized dimensions make them great candidates for cancer therapy. As chemotherapy is associated with cytotoxicity and multiple drug resistance, the use of exosomes targeting capabilities, able to deliver anticancer drugs specifically to cancer cells, is a great approach to overcome these disadvantages. The objective is to assess treatment efficiency in reducing tumor cells, as well as overall safety and response by cancer carriers. So far, results show exosomes as a promising therapeutic strategy in the fight against cancer. This review summarizes the characteristics and composition of exosomes, as well as explaining in detail the involved parties in the origin of exosomes. Furthermore, some considerations about exosome application in immunotherapy are addressed. The main isolation and loading methods are described to give an insight into how exosomes can be obtained and manipulated. Finally, some therapeutic applications of exosomes in cancer therapy are described.
A Genetic Programming Strategy to Induce Logical Rules for Clinical Data Analysis
Authors: Castellanos-Garzón José A. , Mezquita Martín Yeray , Jaimes Sánchez José Luis , López García Santiago Manuel , Costa Ernesto
Published: November 2020

This paper proposes a machine learning approach dealing with genetic programming to build classifiers through logical rule induction. In this context, we define and test a set of mutation operators across from different clinical datasets to improve the performance of the proposal for each dataset. The use of genetic programming for rule induction has generated interesting results in machine learning problems. Hence, genetic programming represents a flexible and powerful evolutionary technique for automatic generation of classifiers. Since logical rules disclose knowledge from the analyzed data, we use such knowledge to interpret the results and filter the most important features from clinical data as a process of knowledge discovery. The ultimate goal of this proposal is to provide the experts in the data domain with prior knowledge (as a guide) about the structure of the data and the rules found for each class, especially to track dichotomies and inequality. The results reached by our proposal on the involved datasets have been very promising when used in classification tasks and compared with other methods.
Religious Media in the Maghreb: What Are the Boundaries between the Public and Private Spheres?
Authors: Bendahan Mohamed , Akhiate Yassine
Published: November 2020

The Maghreb region, besides being a melting pot, is also a region that has known all Mediterranean civilizations thanks to the culture of its people who have always assimilated the monotheistic religions. In addition, the privileged place of this religious variable has made it a required tool for the governors towards their people. Since the 1956’s, the traditional use of religion has dissipated to the detriment of new models of influence through the classical and then digital media, which have put forward several new powerful political and economic actors who have overturned the divine word as well as the references of the believers.
Joint Delay-Doppler Estimation Performance in a Dual Source Context
Authors: Lubeigt Corentin , Ortega Lorenzo , Vilà-Valls Jordi , Lestarquit Laurent , Chaumette Eric
Published: November 2020

Evaluating the time-delay, Doppler effect and carrier phase of a received signal is a challenging estimation problem that was addressed in a large variety of remote sensing applications. This problem becomes more difficult and less understood when the signal is reflected off one or multiple surfaces and interferes with itself at the receiver stage. This phenomenon might deteriorate the overall system performance, as for the multipath effect in Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS), and mitigation strategies must be accounted for. In other applications such as GNSS reflectometry (GNSS-R) it may be interesting to estimate the parameters of the reflected signal to deduce the geometry and the surface characteristics. In either case, a better understanding of this estimation problem is directly brought by the corresponding lower performance bounds. In the high signal-to-noise ratio regime of the Gaussian conditional signal model, the Cramér-Rao bound (CRB) provides an accurate lower bound in the mean square error sense. In this article, we derive a new compact CRB expression for the joint time-delay and Doppler estimation in a dual source context, considering a band-limited signal and its specular reflection. These compact CRBs are expressed in terms of the baseband signal samples, making them especially easy to use whatever the baseband signal considered, therefore being valid for a variety of remote sensors. This extends existing results in the single source context and opens the door to a plethora of usages to be discussed in the article. The proposed CRB expressions are validated in two representative navigation and radar examples.
6DoF Pose Estimation of Transparent Object from a Single RGB-D Image
Authors: Xu Chi , Chen Jiale , Yao Mengyang , Zhou Jun , Zhang Lijun , Liu Yi
Published: November 2020

6DoF object pose estimation is a foundation for many important applications, such as robotic grasping, automatic driving, and so on. However, it is very challenging to estimate 6DoF pose of transparent object which is commonly seen in our daily life, because the optical characteristics of transparent material lead to significant depth error which results in false estimation. To solve this problem, a two-stage approach is proposed to estimate 6DoF pose of transparent object from a single RGB-D image. In the first stage, the influence of the depth error is eliminated by transparent segmentation, surface normal recovering, and RANSAC plane estimation. In the second stage, an extended point-cloud representation is presented to accurately and efficiently estimate object pose. As far as we know, it is the first deep learning based approach which focuses on 6DoF pose estimation of transparent objects from a single RGB-D image. Experimental results show that the proposed approach can effectively estimate 6DoF pose of transparent object, and it out-performs the state-of-the-art baselines by a large margin.
Combined Regularized Discriminant Analysis and Swarm Intelligence Techniques for Gait Recognition
Authors: Krzeszowski Tomasz , Wiktorowicz Krzysztof
Published: November 2020

In the gait recognition problem, most studies are devoted to developing gait descriptors rather than introducing new classification methods. This paper proposes hybrid methods that combine regularized discriminant analysis (RDA) and swarm intelligence techniques for gait recognition. The purpose of this study is to develop strategies that will achieve better gait recognition results than those achieved by classical classification methods. In our approach, particle swarm optimization (PSO), grey wolf optimization (GWO), and whale optimization algorithm (WOA) are used. These techniques tune the observation weights and hyperparameters of the RDA method to minimize the objective function. The experiments conducted on the GPJATK dataset proved the validity of the proposed concept.
Impact of Different Metals on the Performance of Slab Tamm Plasmon Resonators
Authors: Pühringer Gerald , Consani Cristina , Jakoby Bernhard
Published: November 2020

We investigate the concept of slab Tamm plasmons (STP) in regard to their properties as resonant absorber or emitter structures in the mid-infrared spectral region. In particular, we compare the selective absorption characteristics resulting from different choices of absorbing material, namely Ag, W, Mo or highly doped Si. We devised a simplified optimization procedure using finite element simulations for the calculation of the absorption together with the application of micro-genetic algorithm (GA) optimization. As characteristic for plasmonic structures, the specific choice of the metallic absorber material strongly determines the achievable quality factor (Q). We show that STP absorbers are able to mitigate the degradation of Q for less reflective metals or even non-metals such as doped silicon as plasmonic absorber material. Moreover, our results strongly indicate that the maximum achievable plasmon-enhanced absorption does not depend on the choice of the plasmonic material presuming an optimized configuration is obtained via the GA process. As a result, absorptances in the order of 50–80% could be achieved for any absorber material depending on the slab thickness (up to 1.1 µm) and a target resonance wavelength of 4.26 µm (CO2 absorption line). The proposed structures are compatible with modern semiconductor mass fabrication processes. At the same time, the optimization procedure allows us to choose the best plasmonic material for the corresponding application of the STP structure. Therefore, we believe that our results represent crucial advances towards corresponding integrated resonant absorber and thermal emitter components.
Moving Object Detection Based on Background Compensation and Deep Learning
Authors: Zhu Juncai , Wang Zhizhong , Wang Songwei , Chen Shuli
Published: November 2020

Detecting moving objects in a video sequence is an important problem in many vision-based applications. In particular, detecting moving objects when the camera is moving is a difficult problem. In this study, we propose a symmetric method for detecting moving objects in the presence of a dynamic background. First, a background compensation method is used to detect the proposed region of motion. Next, in order to accurately locate the moving objects, we propose a convolutional neural network-based method called YOLOv3-SOD for detecting all objects in the image, which is lightweight and specifically designed for small objects. Finally, the moving objects are determined by fusing the results obtained by motion detection and object detection. Missed detections are recalled according to the temporal and spatial information in adjacent frames. A dataset is not currently available specifically for moving object detection and recognition, and thus, we have released the MDR105 dataset comprising three classes with 105 videos. Our experiments demonstrated that the proposed algorithm can accurately detect moving objects in various scenarios with good overall performance.
Selection of Macroinvertebrate Indices and Metrics for Assessing Sediment Quality in the St. Lawrence River (QC, Canada)
Authors: Desrosiers Mélanie , Pinel-Alloul Bernadette , Spilmont Charlotte
Published: November 2020

This study aims to evaluate the anthropogenic pressure in the St. Lawrence River by assessing the relationships between composition and chemical contamination of sediments and macroinvertebrate community structure using a selection of indices and metrics. The aims of this study are to (i) determine the composition of macroinvertebrate community in sediments across a gradient of disturbance, (ii) select relevant macroinvertebrate indices and metrics for the assessment of sediment quality, (iii) investigate whether responses of selected indices and metrics differ across habitats and/or sediment quality classes, and finally, (iv) determine the thresholds for critical contaminants related to significant changes in the most relevant indices and metrics. Organic and inorganic contaminants as well as other sediment variables (sediment grain size, total organic carbon, nutrients, etc.) and macroinvertebrate assemblages were determined in 59 sites along the river. Fourteen macroinvertebrate indices and metrics, on the 264 initially selected, were shown to be the most effective to be used in bioassessment for the St. Lawrence River. However, the variation in macroinvertebrate indices and metrics remains strongly explained by habitat characteristics, such as sediment grain size or the level of nutrients. There is also an influence of metals and, to a lesser extent, organic contaminants such as petroleum hydrocarbons. The 14 selected indices and metrics are promising bioassessment tools that are easy to use and interpret in an environmental assessment of sediment quality in the St. Lawrence River.
Sewer Network Layout Selection and Hydraulic Design Using a Mathematical Optimization Framework
Authors: Duque Natalia , Duque Daniel , Aguilar Andrés , Saldarriaga Juan
Published: November 2020

This paper proposes an iterative mathematical optimization framework to solve the layout and hydraulic design problems of sewer networks. The layout selection model determines the flow rate and direction per pipe using mixed-integer programming, which results in a tree-like structured network. This network layout parametrizes a second model that determines hydraulic features including the diameter and the upstream and downstream invert elevations of pipes using a shortest path algorithm. These models are embedded in an iterative scheme that refines a cost function approximation for the first model upon learning the actual design cost from the second model. The framework was successfully tested on two sewer network benchmarks from the literature and a real sewer network located in Bogotá, Colombia, that is proposed as a new instance. For both benchmarks, the proposed methodology found a better solution with up to 42% cost reduction compared to the best methodologies reported in the literature. These are near-optimal solutions with respect to construction cost that satisfy all hydraulic and pipe connectivity constraints of a sewer system.
Menerapkan Konsep Hidup Menjadi Anak-anak Terang Berdasarkan Efesus 5:1-21 bagi Remaja GPdI Samiri, Serui, Papua
Authors: Tino Siska Arista , Kristiana Pestaria Happy
Published: November 2020

Youth are part of God's church. However, it cannot be denied that adolescence is known as a time of storms and pressure, which if not handled properly will make teenagers live in the wrong relationships and way of life. This article aims to provide an understanding of life as children of light according to Ephesians 5: 1-21 to the youth of GPdI in the Samiri Region, Serui, Papua, so that they realize that being a new human being must relate to life as bright children who have left their deeds. dark in the past. By using the interpretation of the text of Ephesians 5: 1-21, this research resulted in two things, namely: spiritual characteristics and personality characteristics.AbstrakRemaja adalah bagian dari gereja Tuhan. Namun tidak adapat dipungkiri bahwa masa remaja dikenal sebagai masa badai dan tekanan, yang jika tidak ditangani dengan baik akan membuat para remaja hidup dalam pergaulan dan cara hidup yang salah. Artikel ini bertujuan untuk memberikan pemahaman mengenai hidup sebagai anak-anak terang menurut Efesus 5:1-21 kepada para remaja GPdI Wilayah Samiri, Serui, Papua, supaya mereka menyadari bahwa menjadi manusia baru haruslah berhubungan dengan hidup sebagai anak-anak terang yang meninggalan perbuatan gelap di masa lalu.Dengan menggunakan metode tafsir teks Efesus 5:1-21, maka penelitian ini meng-hasilkan dua hal, yakni: karakteristik spiritual dan karakteristik kepribadian.
Pengaruh Karakter Kepemimpinan dan Kepemimpinan Visioner Para Gembala terhadap Pertumbuhan Gereja Pantekosta di Indonesia di Kota Jayapura
Authors: Manansang Rivo
Published: November 2020

Pertumbuhan gereja dikaitkan dengan banyak faktor, namun faktor yang paling esensial mempengaruhi pertumbuhan gereja adalah dari pengaruh pemimpin gereja. Rahasia pertumbuhan gereja, baik secara kuantitas maupun kualitas dinyatakan dalam Alkitab adalah pekerjaan Allah yang mengerjakan semuanya sesuai dengan kehendak-Nya melalui para pemimpin yang memiliki karakter kepemimpinan dan kepemimpinan visioner dari Allah. Dalam hal ini, GPdI di kota Jayapura diharapkan terus bertumbuh baik secara kuantitas maupun kualitas jemaat sambil terus memperhatikan dan memperbaiki karakter kepemimpinan dan kepemimpinan visioner dari masing-masing gembala GPdI di kota Jayapura. Adapun tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui bagaimana pengaruh kepemimpinan visioner dan karakter kepemimpinan para gembala terhadap pertumbuhan Gereja Pantekosta di Indonesia di kota Jayapura.