bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Therapeutic Drug Monitoring of Amphotericin-B in Plasma and Peritoneal Fluid of Pediatric Patients after Liver Transplantation: A Case Series
Authors: Tortora Francesca , Dei Giudici Luigi , Simeoli Raffaele , Chiusolo Fabrizio , Cairoli Sara , Bernaschi Paola , Bianchi Roberto , Picardo Sergio Giuseppe , Dionisi Vici Carlo , Goffredo Bianca Maria
Published: May 2022

Fungal infections represent a serious complication during the post-liver transplantation period. Abdominal infections can occur following pre-existing colonization, surgical procedures, and permanence of abdominal tubes. In our center, liposomal amphotericin-B is used as antifungal prophylaxis in pediatric patients undergoing liver transplantation. The aim of this study is to evaluate peritoneal levels of amphotericin-B following intravenous administration. Six liver recipients received liposomal amphotericin-B. Three of them were treated as prophylaxis; meanwhile, three patients received liposomal amphotericin-B to treat Candida albicans infection. Plasma and peritoneal amphotericin-B levels were measured by LC-MS/MS in two consecutive samplings. Cmin (pre-dose) and Cmax (2 h after the end of infusion) were evaluated as drug exposure parameters for both plasma and peritoneum. Our results showed that peritoneal amphotericin-B levels were significantly lower than plasma and that the correlation coefficient was 0.72 (p = 0.03) between plasma and peritoneal Cmin. Moreover, although peritoneal levels were within the therapeutic range, they never reached the PK/PD target (Cmax/MIC > 4.5). In conclusion, PK exposure parameters could be differently used to analyze amphotericin-B concentrations in plasma and peritoneum. However, liposomal amphotericin-B should be preferred in these patients as prophylactic rather than therapeutic treatment for fungal infections.
The Impact of a Post-Prescription Review and Feedback Antimicrobial Stewardship Program in Lebanon
Authors: Shallal Anita , Lahoud Chloe , Merhej Dunia , Youssef Sandra , Verkler Jelena , Kaljee Linda , Prentiss Tyler , Joshi Seema , Zervos Marcus , Matar Madonna
Published: May 2022

Antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs) are effective means to optimize prescribing practices. They are under-utilized in the Middle East where many challenges exist for ASP implementation. We assessed the effectiveness of infectious disease physician-driven post-prescription review and feedback as an ASP in Lebanon. This prospective cohort study was conducted over an 18-month period in the medical, surgical, and intensive care units of a tertiary care hospital. It consisted of three phases: the baseline, intervention, and follow-up. There was a washout period of two months between each phase. Patients aged ≥16 years receiving 48 h of antibiotics were included. During the intervention phase, the AMS team reviewed antimicrobial use within 72 h post-prescription and gave alternate recommendations based on the guidelines for use. The acceptance of the recommendations was measured at 72 h. The primary outcome of the study was days of therapy per 1000 study patient days. A total of 328 patients were recruited in the baseline phase (August–October 2020), 467 patients in the intervention phase (January–June 2021), and 301 patients in the post-intervention phase (September–December 2021). The total days of therapy decreased from 11.46 during the baseline phase to 8.64 during the intervention phase (p < 0.001). Intervention acceptance occurred 88.5% of the time. The infectious disease physician-driven implementation of an ASP was successful in reducing antibiotic utilization in an acute care setting in Lebanon.
Outpatient Antibiotic Prescriptions in France: Patients and Providers Characteristics and Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: BARA Wilfried , Brun-Buisson Christian , Coignard Bruno , Watier Laurence
Published: May 2022

In France, despite several successive plans to control antimicrobial resistance, antibiotic use remains high in the outpatient setting. This study aims to better understand outpatient antibiotic use and prescription in order to identify tailored targets for future public health actions. Using data from the French National Health Data System, we described and compared the individual characteristics of patients with and without an antibiotic prescription. The prescribed antibiotics (ATC-J01) were detailed and compared between 2019 and 2020. Antibiotic prescribing indicators that take prescriber activity into account were estimated and compared. Patients who were female, advanced age, and the presence of comorbidities were associated with antibiotic prescriptions. The overall prescription rate was estimated at 134 per 1000 consultations and 326 per 1000 patients seen in 2019. General practitioners (GPs), dentists and paediatricians were associated with 78.0%, 12.2% and 2.2% of antibiotic prescriptions, respectively, with high prescription rates (391, 447, and 313 p. 1000 patients seen, respectively). In comparison with 2019, this rate decreased in 2020 for paediatricians (−30.4%) and GPs (−17.9%) whereas it increased among dentists (+17.9%). The reduction was twice as high among the male prescribers than among their female counterparts (−26.6 and −12.0, respectively). The reduction in prescriptions observed in 2020 (−18.2%) was more marked in children (−35.8%) but less so among individuals ≥65 years (−13.1%) and those with comorbidities (−12.5%). The decrease in penicillin prescriptions represents 67.3% of the overall reduction observed in 2020. The heterogeneous decrease in prescriptions by age and antibiotic class could be explained by the impact of COVID-19 control measures on the spread of respiratory viruses; thus, a substantial proportion of the prescriptions avoided in 2020 is likely inappropriate, particularly among children. In order to keep the rate of prescriptions comparable to that observed in 2020, male prescribers, paediatricians and GPs should be encouraged to maintain that level, while a campaign to raise awareness of the appropriate use of antibiotics should be aimed at dentists in particular.
Effects of Faba Bean Hull Nanoparticles on Physical Properties, Protein and Lipid Oxidation, Colour Degradation, and Microbiological Stability of Burgers under Refrigerated Storage
Authors: Elsebaie Essam Mohamed , Elmahdy Ahmed , El-Gezawy Eman S. , Badr Mohamed Reda , Asker Galila Ali , El-Gawish Asmaa M. , Essa Rowida Younis
Published: May 2022

The processing of faba beans generates great quantities of hulls, which are high in bioactive compounds with demonstrated radical-inhibiting properties. There is no research on the impact of using faba bean hull nanoparticles (FBH-NPs) to improve the quality and extend the shelf-life of beef products. Hence, the target of this investigation was to assess the inhibiting influence of adding FBH-NPs at two different concentrations (1 and 1.5%) on the physical attributes, lipid and protein oxidation, colour degradation, and microbiological safety of burgers during refrigerated storage (4 ± 1 °C/12 days). The FBH-NPs presented great phenolic content (103.14 ± 0.98 mg GAE/g dw) and antioxidant potential. The water holding capacity and cooking properties in burgers including FBH-NPs were improved during storage. The FBH-NPs significantly (p < 0.05) decreased the reduction rate of redness and lightness during the burger refrigerated storage and the FBH-NPs were more beneficial in preventing cold burger discolouration. In the FBH-NPs-treated burgers, peroxide values, TBARS, and protein carbonyl content were lower than in the control (up to 12 days). The microbiological load of burgers including FBH-NPs was lower than the load of the control during refrigerated storage. The findings revealed that FBH-NPs were more efficient in enhancing the cooking characteristics, retarding lipid or protein oxidation, preventing colour detrition and improving the microbial safety of burgers.
Role of Erythrocytes in Nitric Oxide Metabolism and Paracrine Regulation of Endothelial Function
Authors: Gajecki Damian , Gawryś Jakub , Szahidewicz-Krupska Ewa , Doroszko Adrian
Published: May 2022

Emerging studies provide new data shedding some light on the complex and pivotal role of red blood cells (RBCs) in nitric oxide (NO) metabolism and paracrine regulation of endothelial function. NO is involved in the regulation of vasodilatation, platelet aggregation, inflammation, hypoxic adaptation, and oxidative stress. Even though tremendous knowledge about NO metabolism has been collected, the exact RBCs’ status still requires evaluation. This paper summarizes the actual knowledge regarding the role of erythrocytes as a mobile depot of amino acids necessary for NO biotransformation. Moreover, the complex regulation of RBCs’ translocases is presented with a particular focus on cationic amino acid transporters (CATs) responsible for the NO substrates and derivatives transport. The main part demonstrates the intraerythrocytic metabolism of L-arginine with its regulation by reactive oxygen species and arginase activity. Additionally, the process of nitrite and nitrate turnover was demonstrated to be another stable source of NO, with its reduction by xanthine oxidoreductase or hemoglobin. Additional function of hemoglobin in NO synthesis and its subsequent stabilization in steady intermediates is also discussed. Furthermore, RBCs regulate the vascular tone by releasing ATP, inducing smooth muscle cell relaxation, and decreasing platelet aggregation. Erythrocytes and intraerythrocytic NO metabolism are also responsible for the maintenance of normotension. Hence, RBCs became a promising new therapeutic target in restoring NO homeostasis in cardiovascular disorders.
White Wine—Induced Endothelium-Dependent Vasorelaxation in Sprague-Dawley Rats
Authors: Mihaljević Zrinka , Kujundžić Toni , Jukić Vladimir , Stupin Ana , Drenjančević Mato , Drenjančević Ines
Published: May 2022

The vasodilatory activity and polyphenolic content of commercially available white wine is low compared to red wines. This study assessed the vasodilator potential of white wines produced by four different fermentation processes: (1) white wine produced by the standard procedure; (2) grapes left to macerate completely for 30 days; (3) grapes left to macerate up to half of unfermented sugar; and (4) wine produced by cooling the must. All tested wine samples were analyzed for their phenolic content, antioxidant capacity, and ethanol content. Vasodilation was examined in the norepinephrine pre-contracted isolated rat aortas of male Sprague-Dawley rats randomly exposed to cumulative concentrations (0.1‰ to 8‰ final dilutions in organ baths) of each of the tested wine samples with or without quercetin and/or gallic acid supplementation, in the absence/presence of NOS inhibitor L-NAME. Standard procedure and the procedure involving must cooling gives wine with lower phenolic content, antioxidant capacity, and lower vasodilator potential, respectively. L-NAME inhibited vasodilation to all wine samples. Quercetin with or without gallic acid supplementation restored vasodilation. Results show that vasodilation to white wine is NO-dependent and suggest the possibility of increasing the antioxidant capacity and vasodilatory potential of white wine using different production procedures, depending on quercetin content.
Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework-8 Nanoparticles Exhibit More Severe Toxicity to the Embryo/Larvae of Zebrafish (Danio rerio) When Co-Exposed with Cetylpyridinium Chloride
Authors: Qiu Xuchun , Liu Lei , Xu Wei , Chen Chen , Li Ming , Shi Yanhong , Wu Xiangyang , Chen Kun , Wang Chongchen
Published: May 2022

The combined application of nanoparticles and surfactants has attracted tremendous attention in basic research and industry. However, knowledge of their combined toxicity remains scarce. In this study, we exposed zebrafish embryos to cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC, a cationic surfactant, at 0 and 20 μg/L), zeolitic imidazolate framework nanoparticles (ZIF-NPs, at 0, 30, and 60 mg/L), and their mixtures until 120 h post-fertilization (hpf). Within the used concentration range, both single and combined exposures exhibited limited effects on the survival and hatching of zebrafish. However, the combined exposure of ZIF-NPs and CPC caused more severe effects on the heart rate at both 48 and 72 hpf. The combined exposure also induced significant hyperactivity (i.e., increasing the average swimming velocity) and oxidative stress in zebrafish larvae (at 120 hpf), although all single exposure treatments exhibited limited impacts. Furthermore, the level of reactive oxygen species (or malondialdehyde) exhibited a significantly positive correlation with the heart rate (or average swimming velocity) of zebrafish, suggesting that oxidative stress plays a role in mediating the combined toxicity of CPC and ZIF-NPs to zebrafish. Our findings suggest that the interaction of CPC and ZIF-NPs should not be ignored when assessing the potential risks of their mixtures.
The Investigation of a New End Wall Contouring Method for Axial Compressors
Authors: Li Xiangjun , You Fuhao , Lu Qing , Zhang Haoguang , Chu Wuli
Published: May 2022

To further control corner separation in high-load axial compressors, this study proposes a new end wall contouring method. It defines multiple standard “surface units” with particular flow control effects and then applies a linear combination, finally forming the geometry of the end wall surface. Based on design experiences, three different end wall contouring cases are generated and calculated on a high-load compressor cascade in the first step. The results show that the new method achieves a clear and intuitive influence on the end wall geometry, with a proper number of design variables, and can effectively combine variables with the development of secondary flow. In the second step, the new method was applied to an axial compressor, with an improvement in the design variables. Although the end wall contouring only improved the efficiency of the compressor stage on the right part of its operating map, the experimental results of the flow field show that the corner separation and end wall loss are suppressed at multiple inflow conditions. The results thus verified the practical effect of the newly developed end wall contouring method.
Graphene-Based Functional Hybrid Membranes for Antimicrobial Applications: A Review
Authors: Zhang Xiaoting , Kong Hao , Yang Guozheng , Zhu Danzhu , Luan Xin , He Peng , Wei Gang
Published: May 2022

Graphene-based nanomaterials have shown wide applications in antimicrobial fields due to their accelerated rate of pathogen resistance and good antimicrobial properties. To apply graphene materials in the antimicrobial test, the graphene materials are usually fabricated as two-dimensional (2D) membranes. In addition, to improve the antimicrobial efficiency, graphene membranes are modified with various functional nanomaterials, such as nanoparticles, biomolecules, polymers, etc. In this review, we present recent advances in the fabrication, functional tailoring, and antimicrobial applications of graphene-based membranes. To implement this goal, we first introduce the synthesis of graphene materials and then the fabrication of 2D graphene-based membranes with potential techniques such as chemical vapor deposition, vacuum filtration, spin-coating, casting, and layer-by-layer self-assembly. Then, we present the functional tailoring of graphene membranes by adding metal and metal oxide nanoparticles, polymers, biopolymers, metal–organic frameworks, etc., with graphene. Finally, we focus on the antimicrobial mechanisms of graphene membranes, and demonstrate typical studies on the use of graphene membranes for antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal applications. It is expected that this work will help readers to understand the antimicrobial mechanism of various graphene-based membranes and, further, to inspire the design and fabrication of functional graphene membranes/films for biomedical applications.
The Effect of Multi-Generational Selection in Geometric Semantic Genetic Programming
Authors: Castelli Mauro , Manzoni Luca , Mariot Luca , Menara Giuliamaria , Pietropolli Gloria
Published: May 2022

Among the evolutionary methods, one that is quite prominent is genetic programming. In recent years, a variant called geometric semantic genetic programming (GSGP) was successfully applied to many real-world problems. Due to a peculiarity in its implementation, GSGP needs to store all its evolutionary history, i.e., all populations from the first one. We exploit this stored information to define a multi-generational selection scheme that is able to use individuals from older populations. We show that a limited ability to use “old” generations is actually useful for the search process, thus showing a zero-cost way of improving the performances of GSGP.
Quality Evaluation Algorithm for Chest Compressions Based on OpenPose Model
Authors: Zhang Siqi , Jin Jie , Wang Chaofang , Dong Wenlong , Fan Bin
Published: May 2022

Aiming at the problems of the low evaluation efficiency of the existing traditional cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training mode and the considerable development of machine vision technology, a quality evaluation algorithm for chest compressions (CCs) based on the OpenPose human pose estimation (HPE) model is proposed. Firstly, five evaluation criteria are proposed based on major international CPR guidelines along with our experimental study on elbow straightness. Then, the OpenPose network is applied to obtain the coordinates of the key points of the human skeleton. The algorithm subsequently calculates the geometric angles and displacement of the selected joint key points using the detected coordinates. Finally, it determines whether the compression posture is standard, and it calculates the depth, frequency, position and chest rebound, which are the critical evaluation metrics of CCs. Experimental results show that the average accuracy of network behavior detection reaches 94.85%, and detection speed reaches 25 fps.
The 3D Deburring Processing Trajectory Recognition Method and Its Application Base on Random Sample Consensus
Authors: Ting Chun-Chien , Huang Cheng-Kai , Chiou Shean-Juinn , Li Kun-Ying
Published: May 2022

As of 2022, most automatic deburring trajectories are still generated using offline programming methods. The trajectories generated using these methods are often suboptimal, which limits the precision of the robotic arms used to perform automatic deburring and, in turn, results in workpiece dimensional errors. Therefore, despite advances in automated deburring trajectory generation, deburring is still mostly performed manually. However, manual deburring is a time-consuming, labor-intensive, and expensive process that results in small profit margins for organizational equipment manufacturers (OEMs). To address these problems and the obstacles to the implementation of automated deburring in the robotics industry, the present study developed an online automated deburring trajectory generation method that uses 2D contouring information obtained from linear contour scanning sensors, a CAD model, and curve fitting to detect burrs and generate appropriate trajectories. The method overcomes many of the limitations of common deburring methods, especially by enabling real-time trajectory tracking. When the method was tested using bicycle forks, work that originally took three to four people 8–12-h to complete was completed by one person in 30 min, and the production cost was reduced by 70%.
Application of a Cost-Effective Visible/Near Infrared Optical Prototype for the Measurement of Qualitative Parameters of Chardonnay Grapes
Authors: Pampuri Alessia , Tugnolo Alessio , Giovenzana Valentina , Casson Andrea , Pozzoli Carola , Brancadoro Lucio , Guidetti Riccardo , Beghi Roberto
Published: May 2022

In this paper, a cost-effective visible/near infrared optical prototype was tested for grape maturity monitoring. The device was used to quantify the qualitative parameters of Chardonnay grapes, based on the combination of spectroscopic data and the creation of predictive models. The optical acquisitions were performed directly in the field through the use of 12 wavelengths in the vis/NIR range, i.e., 450, 500, 550, 570, 600, 610, 650, 680, 730, 760, 810 and 860 nanometers. The prediction of the qualitative parameters was carried out through a multivariate model, partial least square (PLS) regression technique and built knowing the real values of the parameters, i.e., total soluble solids (TSS), titratable acidity (TA) and pH measured through the reference laboratory analyses. Sampling included two harvest years. The most efficient model was the one for TSS evaluation that gave a R2 = 0.87 (independent test set validation). The results demonstrated that the optical device is able to provide useful information about the ripening parameters of Chardonnay grapes directly in the field in order to predict its correct maturation stage and, therefore, support operators in rapid and objective decision making. Overall, the use of the prototype promotes a sustainable approach and viticulture 4.0.
Novel Insights of Herbal Remedy into NSCLC Suppression through Inducing Diverse Cell Death Pathways via Affecting Multiple Mediators
Authors: Batbold Uyanga , Liu Jun-Jen
Published: May 2022

Artemisia species previously have been reported to have antimicrobial, antioxidant, antiulcer, and anticancer properties. In this study, we investigated the prospective antitumor effects of Artemisia santolinifolia ethanol extract (ASE) against two non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell lines and their molecular mechanisms of action. Morphological observations and flow cytometric analyses showed that ASE induced cell death in A549 and H23 cells but with different action features. Further studies by Western blotting showed that ASE induced caspase-3 cleavage in H23 cells, suggesting caspase-dependent apoptosis was predominantly involved in H23 cell death. Contrarily, ASE treatment selectively altered the glutathione peroxidase (GPX4) protein expression, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and lipid peroxidation in A549 cells, all of which are linked to ferroptosis. Using a ferroptosis inhibitor (desferrioxamine (DFO)), further study showed that DFO could significantly rescue ASE-induced cell death. All these results implied that ASE induced ferroptosis predominately in A549 cells. Several studies have demonstrated that the nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2 (NRF2) can be dual-selectively targeted depending on the cell line. Subsequently, it can exert opposing effects until either being activated or suppressed. This was consistent with our data, which might explain inconsistent observations of the cell death type in this study. In addition, after ASE treatment, signal transduction and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) were inhibited in both cell lines. Consequently, downstream prosurvival proteins, including heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) and survivin, which play pivotal roles in the STAT3 pathway, decreased after ASE administration. Our findings revealed that ASE inhibited NSCLC cell proliferation by simultaneously downregulating prosurvival protein expressions and activating multiple cell death pathways.
Size and Shape Optimization of a Guyed Mast Structure under Wind, Ice and Seismic Loading
Authors: Cucuzza Raffaele , Rosso Marco Martino , Aloisio Angelo , Melchiorre Jonathan , Giudice Mario Lo , Marano Giuseppe Carlo
Published: May 2022

This paper discusses the size and shape optimization of a guyed radio mast for radiocommunications. The considered structure represents a widely industrial solution due to the recent spread of 5G and 6G mobile networks. The guyed radio mast was modeled with the finite element software SAP2000 and optimized through a genetic optimization algorithm (GA). The optimization exploits the open application programming interfaces (OAPI) SAP2000-Matlab. Static and dynamic analyses were carried out to provide realistic design scenarios of the mast structure. The authors considered the action of wind, ice, and seismic loads as variable loads. A parametric study on the most critical design variables includes several optimization scenarios to minimize the structure’s total self-weight by varying the most relevant parameters selected by a preliminary sensitivity analysis. In conclusion, final design considerations are discussed by highlighting the best optimization scenario in terms of the objective function and the number of parameters involved in the analysis.
Total Polyphenols and Antioxidant Properties of Selected Fresh and Dried Herbs and Spices
Authors: Bieżanowska-Kopeć Renata , Piątkowska Ewa
Published: May 2022

In this study, the content of total polyphenols (TP) and the antioxidant activity (AA) of fresh herbs (13 in total) and those subjected to the freeze-drying process (stems and leaves separately) were compared. Moreover, the content of TP and AA of retail, commercial food spices (19 in total) of the two leading companies on the Polish market were compared. The novelty of our studies is the comparison between fresh and dried forms of herbs and spices and additionally between dried in a freeze-drying process and commercially available (in dried forms). It was found that fresh herbs and spices showed a large accumulation of polyphenolic compounds (from 466.55 to 17.23 CAE/100 g, respectively, for lemon balm and ginger). For freeze-dried herbs and spices, the highest TP content was found for marjoram (3052.34 CAE/100 g—leaves). Among commercial herbs and spices, sage (971.28 CAE/100 g) deserves attention. Fresh herbal spices, in particular oregano, (236.21 µM TE/g) had the highest AA. AA of freeze-dried herbs and spices was much lower (5.27–1.20 µM TE/g). The average value obtained for commercially available herbs and spices purchased was 1.44 µM TE/g. In the case of AA measured by the DPPH radical, thyme was characterized by the highest activity among fresh marjoram for freeze-dried herbs and spices. For dried commercial spices, the highest levels of AA were found for cumin.
Inverse Design of Distributed Bragg Reflectors Using Deep Learning
Authors: Head Sarah , Keshavarz Hedayati Mehdi
Published: May 2022

Distributed Bragg Reflectors are optical structures capable of manipulating light behaviour, which are formed by stacking layers of thin-film materials. The inverse design of such structures is desirable, but not straightforward using conventional numerical methods. This study explores the application of Deep Learning to the design of a six-layer system, through the implementation of a Tandem Neural Network. The challenge is split into three sections: the generation of training data using the Transfer Matrix method, the design of a Simulation Neural Network (SNN) which maps structural geometry to spectral output, and finally an Inverse Design Neural Network (IDNN) which predicts the geometry required to produce target spectra. The latter enables the designer to develop custom multilayer systems with desired reflection properties. The SNN achieved an average accuracy of 97% across the dataset, with the IDNN achieving 94%. By using this inverse design method, custom-made reflectors can be manufactured in milliseconds, significantly reducing the cost of generating photonic devices and thin-film optics.
Application of Deep Learning and WT-SST in Localization of Epileptogenic Zone Using Epileptic EEG Signals
Authors: Saminu Sani , Xu Guizhi , Shuai Zhang , Kader Isselmou Abd El , Jabire Adamu Halilu , Ahmed Yusuf Kola , Karaye Ibrahim Abdullahi , Ahmad Isah Salim
Published: May 2022

Focal and non-focal Electroencephalogram (EEG) signals have proved to be effective techniques for identifying areas in the brain that are affected by epileptic seizures, known as the epileptogenic zones. The detection of the location of focal EEG signals and the time of seizure occurrence are vital information that help doctors treat focal epileptic seizures using a surgical method. This paper proposed a computer-aided detection (CAD) system for detecting and classifying focal and non-focal EEG signals as the manual process is time-consuming, prone to error, and tedious. The proposed technique employs time-frequency features, statistical, and nonlinear approaches to form a robust features extraction technique. Four detection and classification techniques for focal and non-focal EEG signals were proposed. (1). Combined hybrid features with Support Vector Machine (Hybrid-SVM) (2). Discrete Wavelet Transform with Deep Learning Network (DWT-DNN) (3). Combined hybrid features with DNN (Hybrid-DNN) as an optimized DNN model. Lastly, (4). A newly proposed technique using Wavelet Synchrosqueezing Transform-Deep Convolutional Neural Network (WTSST-DCNN). Prior to feeding the features to classifiers, statistical analyses, including t-tests, were deployed to obtain relevant and significant features at each approach. The proposed feature extraction technique and classification proved effective and suitable for smart Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) devices as performance parameters of accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity are higher than recently related works with a value of 99.7%, 99.5%, and 99.7% respectively.
Weighted Multi-Band Turbo-Coded FSK for Reliable Underwater Communications
Authors: Jeong Hyun-Woo , Jung Ji-Won
Published: May 2022

Multi-band communication technology allocates the same data to different frequency bands, improving both performance and propagation efficiency. However, since the performance loss in a particular band affects the entire band, the multi-band structure may have worse performance than the single-band one. To avoid performance degradation, this paper proposed estimated coded bit error rates (EC-BER) algorithm. EC-BER algorithm is a method of analyzing the reliability of the received data based on the performance difference between demodulated and decoded data. It analyzes the performance of each band and allocates lower weighting values to inferior bands. Furthermore, an iterative turbo-coded equalization algorithm, which iteratively exchanges probabilistic information between the equalizer and turbo decoder, is applied. By employing a direct sequence spread spectrum (DSSS) with frequency shift keying (FSK) and multi-band techniques for reliable underwater communications, a lake trial was conducted. Experimental results show that the performance is improved as the number of spreading factors and turbo iterations increase. Especially the addition of the EC-BER algorithm dramatically improved the reliability of the system, resulting in minimal to zero errors.
Rapid Sampling Protocol of Isoprene Emission Rate of Palm (Arecaceae) Species Using Excised Leaves
Authors: Chang Ting-Wei , Okamoto Hiroshi , Tani Akira
Published: May 2022

The high isoprene emission capacity of palm species can decrease regional air quality and enhance the greenhouse effect when land is converted to palm plantations. Propagation of low-emitting individuals can be a strategy for reducing isoprene emission from palms. However, the identification of low-emitting individuals requires large-scale sampling. Thus, we aimed to develop a rapid method in which the isoprene emission rate of leaf segments is observed. We examined the temperature response and effect of incubation length on the isoprene emission rate of palm leaf and found that leaf temperatures at 25 to 30 °C and an incubation length of 40 min are suitable parameters. To further examine the validity of the method, we applied both the enclosure method and this method to the same sections of leaves. High coefficient of determinations (0.993 and 0.982) between the results of the two methods were detected regardless of seasonal temperature. This result proves that the method is capable of measuring the isoprene emission rate under any growth conditions if the incubation temperature is controlled. By using a water bath tank and a tested light source, we can simply implement a unified environmental control of multiple samples at once, which achieves a higher time efficiency than conventional enclosure measurements.
An Observing System Simulation Experiment (OSSE) to Study the Impact of Ocean Surface Observation from the Micro Unmanned Robot Observation Network (MURON) on Tropical Cyclone Forecast
Authors: Kay Junkyung , Wang Xuguang , Yamamoto Masaya
Published: May 2022

The Micro Unmanned Robot Observation Network (MURON) is a planned in-situ observation network over the surface of West Pacific Ocean, and it is designed to sample high spatial and temporal resolution observations of wind and mass fields over the ocean surface. The impacts of MURON observations for Tropical Cyclone (TC) intensity forecast are investigated using Observation System Simulation Experiments. The regional Ensemble Kalman Filter (EnKF) system of Gridpoint Statistical Interpolation is used with the Advanced Research version of the Weather Research and Forecasting model to conduct OSSEs for typhoon Haiyan (2013) while Haiyan goes through rapid intensification. Assimilating MURON observations improves the TC structure and intensity analysis and forecast. The intensity forecast is improved largely due to the correction of initial vorticity and vertical transport of mass flux. The improvement of intensity forecast is attributed largely to the assimilated MURON wind observations when Haiyan is at the tropical disturbance stage, and then by the MURON mass observations when Haiyan enters the tropical storm stage. In addition, our results show that the quality of moisture analysis is sensitive to the choice of the moisture control variable (CV) in the EnKF system. Using the default pseudo relative humidity (PRH) as the moisture CV degrades the accuracy of the moisture analysis. This is likely due to the neglect of updated temperature field during the nonlinear conversion from the PRH CV to the mixing ratio variable and due to the larger deviation of the PRH from Gaussian distribution. The use of mixing ratio moisture CV mitigates these problems.
Numerical and Experimental Investigation of the Hydrodynamics in the Single-Use Bioreactor Mobius® CellReady 3 L
Authors: Kreitmayer Diana , Gopireddy Srikanth R. , Matsuura Tomomi , Aki Yuichi , Katayama Yuta , Sawada Taihei , Kakihara Hirofumi , Nonaka Koichi , Profitlich Thomas , Urbanetz Nora A. , Gutheil Eva
Published: May 2022

Two-way Euler-Lagrange simulations are performed to characterize the hydrodynamics in the single-use bioreactor Mobius® CellReady 3 L. The hydrodynamics in stirred tank bioreactors are frequently modeled with the Euler–Euler approach, which cannot capture the trajectories of single bubbles. The present study employs the two-way coupled Euler–Lagrange approach, which accounts for the individual bubble trajectories through Langrangian equations and considers their impact on the Eulerian liquid phase equations. Hydrodynamic process characteristics that are relevant for cell cultivation including the oxygen mass transfer coefficient, the mixing time, and the hydrodynamic stress are evaluated for different working volumes, sparger types, impeller speeds, and sparging rates. A microporous sparger and an open pipe sparger are considered where bubbles of different sizes are generated, which has a pronounced impact on the bubble dispersion and the volumetric oxygen mass transfer coefficient. It is found that only the microporous sparger provides sufficiently high oxygen transfer to support typical suspended mammalian cell lines. The simulated mixing time and the volumetric oxygen mass transfer coefficient are successfully validated with experimental results. Due to the small reactor size, mixing times are below 25 s across all tested conditions. For the highest sparging rate of 100 mL min−1, the mixing time is found to be two seconds shorter than for a sparging rate of 50 mL min−1, which again, is 0.1 s longer than for a sparging rate of 10 mL min−1 at the same impeller speed of 100 rpm and the working volume of 1.7 L. The hydrodynamic stress in this bioreactor is found to be below critical levels for all investigated impeller speeds of up to 150 rpm, where the maximum levels are found in the region where the bubbles pass behind the impeller blades.
Environmental Status and Geomorphological Characterisation of Seven Black Coral Forests on the Sardinian Continental Shelf (NW Mediterranean Sea)
Authors: Moccia Davide , Carugati Laura , Follesa Maria Cristina , Cannas Rita , Carbonara Pierluigi , Pusceddu Antonio , Cau Alessandro
Published: May 2022

Marine animal forests are key mesophotic ecosystems that are under threat from increasing natural and human pressures. Despite the fact that various international agreements strive to preserve these fragile ecosystems, the environmental status of the majority of these animal-structured environments is unknown. Assessing their environmental status is the first step needed to monitor these essential habitats’ health over time and include them within conservation and protection frameworks, such as the Marine Strategy Framework Directive. Based on Multibeam data and ROV footage, we characterized the geomorphological setting and evaluated the environmental status of seven black coral forests in the centre of the Western Mediterranean Sea, using the Mesophotic Assemblages Conservation Status (MACS) Index. The presence of two antipatharians, Antipathella subpinnata and Leiopathes glaberrima, characterized the seven investigated sites, dwelling on rocky substrate characterized by different environmental drivers (i.e., depth, slope of the substrate, terrain ruggedness, topographic positioning index, and aspect). From the combined evaluation of the associated benthic community status and the anthropogenic impacts affecting it, a “high” and “good” environmental status was assessed for five out of the seven studied black forests, with only two forests classified as having a “moderate” and “poor” status, respectively. Overall, our study showed a site-specific variability of mesophotic black coral forest status, explained by different biological community structures and environmental conditions mainly associated with morphological and anthropogenic factors.
Fetal Fascial Reinforcement Development: From “a White Tablet” to a Sculpted Precise Organization by Movement
Authors: Pirri Carmelo , Petrelli Lucia , Pérez-Bellmunt Albert , Ortiz-Miguel Sara , Fede Caterina , De Caro Raffaele , Miguel-Pérez Maribel , Stecco Carla
Published: May 2022

Fasciae have received much attention in recent years due to their important role in proprioception and muscular force transmission, but few studies have focused on fetal fasciae development and there is no study on the retinacula. The latter are fascial reinforcements that play a key role in proprioception and motor coordination. Furthermore, it is still unclear if they are genetically determined or if they are defined by movements, and if they are present during gestation or if they appear only later in the childhood. We aim to identify their structural organization by qualitative and quantitative assessments to establish their role the myofascial development, highlighting their appearance and organization. Samples from the wrist retinacula, posterior forearm, ankle retinacula, anterior leg, iliotibial tract and anterior thigh of six fetus body donors (from 24th to 40th week of gestation) and histological sections were obtained and a gross anatomy dissection was performed. Sections were stained with hematoxylin-eosin to observe their overall structure and measure their thicknesses. Using Weigert Van Gieson, Alcian blue and immunostaining to detect Hyaluronic Acid Binding Protein (HABP), Collagens I and III (Col I and III) were realized to assess the presence of elastic fibers and hyaluronan. This study confirms that the deep fasciae initially do not have organized layers and it is not possible to highlight any reinforcement. The fascial development is different according to the various area: while the deep fascia and the iliotibial tract is already evident by the 27th week, the retinacula begin to be defined only at the end of pregnancy, and their complete maturation will probably be reached only after birth. These findings suggest that the movement models the retinacula, structuring the fascial system, in particular at the end of pregnancy and in the first months of life. The fasciae can be imagined, initially, as “white tablets” composed of few elastic fibers, abundant collagens and HA, on which various forces, u movements, loads and gravity, “write their history”.
Central and Peripheral Immune Dysregulation in Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: Convergent Multi-Omics Evidence
Authors: Núñez-Rios Diana L. , Martínez-Magaña José J. , Nagamatsu Sheila T. , Andrade-Brito Diego E. , Forero Diego A. , Orozco-Castaño Carlos A. , Montalvo-Ortiz Janitza L.
Published: May 2022

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a chronic and multifactorial disorder with a prevalence ranging between 6–10% in the general population and ~35% in individuals with high lifetime trauma exposure. Growing evidence indicates that the immune system may contribute to the etiology of PTSD, suggesting the inflammatory dysregulation as a hallmark feature of PTSD. However, the potential interplay between the central and peripheral immune system, as well as the biological mechanisms underlying this dysregulation remain poorly understood. The activation of the HPA axis after trauma exposure and the subsequent activation of the inflammatory system mediated by glucocorticoids is the most common mechanism that orchestrates an exacerbated immunological response in PTSD. Recent high-throughput analyses in peripheral and brain tissue from both humans with and animal models of PTSD have found that changes in gene regulation via epigenetic alterations may participate in the impaired inflammatory signaling in PTSD. The goal of this review is to assess the role of the inflammatory system in PTSD across tissue and species, with a particular focus on the genomics, transcriptomics, epigenomics, and proteomics domains. We conducted an integrative multi-omics approach identifying TNF (Tumor Necrosis Factor) signaling, interleukins, chemokines, Toll-like receptors and glucocorticoids among the common dysregulated pathways in both central and peripheral immune systems in PTSD and propose potential novel drug targets for PTSD treatment.
Exenatide and Dapagliflozin Combination Enhances Sertoli Cell Secretion of Key Metabolites for Spermatogenesis
Authors: Ribeiro João C. , Martins Ana D. , Jarak Ivana , Carvalho Rui A. , Alves Marco G. , Oliveira Pedro F.
Published: May 2022

The incidence of metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) and obesity has been increasing dramatically. Both diseases are closely linked and new approaches for type 2 DM treatment aim to enable weight loss. A combined therapy of dapagliflozin and exenatide has been used against type 2 DM, influencing allbody glucose dynamics. Spermatogenesis is highly dependent on the metabolic cooperation established between Sertoli cells (SCs) and developing germ cells. To study the effects of dapagliflozin and exenatide on SC metabolism, mouse SCs were treated in the presence of sub-pharmacologic, pharmacologic, and supra-pharmacologic concentrations of dapagliflozin (50, 500, 5000 nM, respectively) and/or exenatide (2.5, 25, 250 pM, respectively). Cytotoxicity of these compounds was evaluated and the glycolytic profile, glycogen content assay, and lipid accumulation of SCs were determined. Dapagliflozin treatment decreased fat cellular deposits, demonstrating its anti-obesity properties at the cellular level. Polytherapy of exenatide plus dapagliflozin increased lactate production by SCs, which has been reported to improve sperm production and quality. Thus, the results herein suggest that the use of these two pharmacological agents can protect male fertility, while improving their glucose homeostasis and inducing weight loss.
The Impact of Glucose Oxidase Immobilization on Dendritic Gold Nanostructures on the Performance of Glucose Biosensors
Authors: Sakalauskiene Laura , Popov Anton , Kausaite-Minkstimiene Asta , Ramanavicius Arunas , Ramanaviciene Almira
Published: May 2022

In recent years, many efforts have been made to develop rapid, sensitive and user-friendly glucose biosensors for monitoring blood glucose concentration in patients. In this study, the electrochemical glucose biosensors based on graphite rod (GR) electrode electrochemically modified with dendritic gold nanostructures (DGNs) and glucose oxidase (GOx) were developed. Phenazine methosulfate was used as a soluble redox mediator. Three GOx immobilization methods: adsorption on DGNs and cross-linking with glutaraldehyde (GA) vapour (GA-GOx/DGNs/GR), covalent immobilization on DGNs modified with 11-mercaptoundecanoic acid self-assembled monolayer (SAM) (GOx-SAM/DGNs/GR) and covalent immobilization on SAM with additional cross-linking with GA vapour (GA-GOx-SAM/DGNs/GR), were used. It was determined that GA significantly improved the stability of the enzyme layer. The difference of maximal current generated during the enzymatic reaction (ΔImax) equal to 272.06 ± 8.69 µA was obtained using a biosensor based on GA-GOx/DGNs/GR electrodes. However, the highest ΔImax equal to 384.20 ± 16.06 µA was obtained using GA-GOx-SAM/DGNs/GR electrode. ΔImax for biosensors based on the GA-GOx-SAM/DGNs/GR electrode was 1.41 times higher than for the GA-GOx/DGNs/GR, whereas the linear dynamic range from 0.1 to 10 mM was the same using all three GOx immobilization methods. The limit of detection using GA-GOx-SAM/DGNs/GR and GA-GOx/DGNs/GR electrodes was 0.019 and 0.022 mM, respectively. The ability to detect glucose in the serum by developed biosensors was evaluated.
Rapidly Measuring Scattered Polarization Parameters of the Individual Suspended Particle with Continuously Large Angular Range
Authors: Chen Yan , Wang Hongjian , Liao Ran , Li Hening , Wang Yihao , Zhou Hu , Li Jiajin , Huang Tongyu , Zhang Xu , Ma Hui
Published: May 2022

Suspended particles play a vital role in aquatic environments. We propose a method to rapidly measure the scattered polarization parameters of individual suspended particles with continuously large angular range (PCLAR), from 60° to 120° in one shot. A conceptual setup is built to measure PCLAR with 20 kHz; to verify the setup, 10 μm-diameter silica microspheres suspended in water, whose PCLAR are consistent with those simulated by Mie theory, are measured. PCLAR of 6 categories of particles are measured, which enables high-accuracy classification with the help of a convolutional neural network algorithm. PCLAR of different mixtures of Cyclotella stelligera and silica microspheres are measured to successfully identify particulate components. Furthermore, classification ability comparisons of different angular-selection strategies show that PCLAR enables the best classification beyond the single angle, discrete angles and small-ranged angles. Simulated PCLAR of particles with different size, refractive index, and structure show explicit discriminations between them. Inversely, the measured PCLAR are able to estimate the effective size and refractive index of individual Cyclotella cells. Results demonstrate the method’s power, which intrinsically takes the advantage of the optical polarization and the angular coverage. Future prototypes based on this concept would be a promising biosensor for particles in environmental monitoring.