bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical Pharmacology of Bacteriophage Therapy: A Focus on Multidrug-Resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa Infections
Authors: Holger Dana , Kebriaei Razieh , Morrisette Taylor , Lev Katherine , Alexander Jose , Rybak Michael
Published: May 2021

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one of the most common causes of healthcare-associated diseases and is among the top three priority pathogens listed by the World Health Organization (WHO). This Gram-negative pathogen is especially difficult to eradicate because it displays high intrinsic and acquired resistance to many antibiotics. In addition, growing concerns regarding the scarcity of antibiotics against multidrug-resistant (MDR) and extensively drug-resistant (XDR) P. aeruginosa infections necessitate alternative therapies. Bacteriophages, or phages, are viruses that target and infect bacterial cells, and they represent a promising candidate for combatting MDR infections. The aim of this review was to highlight the clinical pharmacology considerations of phage therapy, such as pharmacokinetics, formulation, and dosing, while addressing several challenges associated with phage therapeutics for MDR P. aeruginosa infections. Further studies assessing phage pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics will help to guide interested clinicians and phage researchers towards greater success with phage therapy for MDR P. aeruginosa infections.
RapidResa Polymyxin Acinetobacter NP® Test for Rapid Detection of Polymyxin Resistance in Acinetobacter baumannii
Authors: Bouvier Maxime , Sadek Mustafa , Pomponio Stefano , D’Emidio Fernando , Poirel Laurent , Nordmann Patrice
Published: May 2021

A homemade and culture-based test, relying on the visual detection of the reduction of the resazurin reagent (a cell viability indicator), has been developed for the rapid detection of polymyxin resistance in Acinetobacter baumannii. Here, we evaluated the industrial version of this test, the RapidResa Polymyxin Acinetobacter NP® test (Liofilchem, Italy). A well-characterized panel of 68 clinical A. baumannii strains (36 polymyxin-susceptible, 26 polymyxin-resistant A. baumannii, and 6 colistin-heteroresistant isolates) of worldwide origin was tested. All the colistin-susceptible A. baumannii isolates gave negative results according to the RapidResa Polymyxin Acinetobacter NP® test, except for a single isolate that gave a false-positive result. Out of the 26 colistin-resistant A. baumannii strains, 25 were correctly identified as colistin resistant using the RapidResa Polymyxin Acinetobacter NP® test. Only a single colistin-resistant A. baumannii strain gave a false-negative result. Additionally, the six colistin-heteroresistant isolates tested gave positive results. Altogether, the sensitivity and the specificity of the test were found to be 96% and 97%, respectively. The turn-around-time of this easy-to-perform test was 3-4h, which showed excellent reliability for identification of polymyxin resistance in A. baumannii. The RapidResa Polymyxin Acinetobacter NP® test allows a rapid differentiation between polymyxin-susceptible and -resistant A. baumannii isolates, which may contribute to optimization of the use of polymyxins for treating infections due to multidrug-resistant A. baumannii.
Phage Therapy in Livestock and Companion Animals
Authors: Ferriol-González Celia , Domingo-Calap Pilar
Published: May 2021

The irrational use of antibiotics has led to a high emergence of multi-drug resistant (MDR) bacteria. The traditional overuse of antibiotics in the animal feed industry plays a crucial role in the emergence of these pathogens that pose both economic and health problems. In addition, antibiotics have also recently experienced an increase to treat companion animal infections, promoting the emergence of MDR bacteria in pets, which can reach humans. Phages have been proposed as an alternative for antibiotics for the treatment of livestock and companion animal infections due to their multiple advantages as adaptative drugs, such as their ability to evolve, to multiply at the site of infections, and their high specificity. Moreover, phage-derived enzymes may also be an interesting approach. However, the lack of regulation for this type of pharmaceutical hinders its potential commercialization. In this review, we summarize the main recent studies on phage therapy in livestock and companion animals, providing an insight into current advances in this area and the future of treatments for bacterial infections.
Antibiotic Stewardship for Canine and Feline Acute Urinary Tract Infection: An Observational Study in a Small Animal Hospital in Northwest Italy
Authors: Vercelli Cristina , Della Ricca Massimiliano , Re Mariachiara , Gambino Graziana , Re Giovanni
Published: May 2021

Antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs) have been suggested to reduce antimicrobial resistance phenomena in veterinary medicine, as antibiotics are commonly used without microbiological confirmation. The aim of the present study is to design a specific working flow for a tailored antimicrobial treatment in the case of canine and feline urinary tract infections (UTIs). Urine samples were collected by cystocentesis from 16 dogs and 12 cats presenting acute signs of UTI. The therapy was decided according to the minimal inhibitory concentration, and it was possible to monitor 14 dogs and 11 cats. Rescue therapy (amoxicillin and clavulanic acid) was included in emergency cases. Escherichia coli, Proteus mirabilis, and Streptococcus canis were isolated in dogs, and Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus pseudintermedius, and Staphylococcus aureus were isolated in cats. No multidrug-resistant strains were detected, but all Staphylococci were methicillin resistant. Only one cat received rescue therapy, and only one dog was recruited. Dogs were treated with tetracycline (1/14), fluoroquinolones (6/14), beta-lactams (6/14), and gentamicin (1/14), while cats received fluoroquinolones (3/11), nitrofurans (1/11), clindamycin (1/11), and beta-lactams (6/11). The success rate was very high. Our findings are interesting because this is the first ASP in Italy, and it may be used as a model to develop ASPs for other pathologies.
Antibiotic Resistance and Virulence Gene Patterns Associated with Avian Pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) from Broiler Chickens in Qatar
Authors: Johar Alreem , Al-Thani Najlaa , Al-Hadidi Sara H. , Dlissi Elyes , Mahmoud Mahmoud H. , Eltai Nahla O.
Published: May 2021

Avian Pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) is the contributing agent behind the avian infectious disease colibacillosis, which causes substantial fatalities in poultry industries that has a significant impact on the economy and food safety. Several virulence genes have been shown to be concomitant with the extraintestinal survival of APEC. This study investigates the antibiotic resistance patterns and APEC-associated virulence genes content in Escherichia coli isolated from non-healthy and healthy broiler chickens from a commercial poultry farm in Qatar. A total of 158 E. coli strains were isolated from 47 chickens from five different organs (air sac, cloacal, kidney, liver, and trachea). Based on genetic criteria, 65% were APEC strains containing five or more virulence genes, and 34% were non-pathogenic E. coli (NPEC) strains. The genes ompT, hlyF, iroN, tsh, vat, iss, cvi/cva, and iucD were significantly prevalent in all APEC strains. E. coli isolates showed 96% resistance to at least one of the 18 antibiotics, with high resistance to ampicillin, cephalothin, ciprofloxacin, tetracycline, and fosfomycin. Our findings indicate high antibiotic resistance prevalence in non-healthy and healthy chicken carcasses. Such resistant E. coli can spread to humans. Hence, special programs are required to monitor the use of antibiotics in chicken production in Qatar.
Plant Feed Additives as Natural Alternatives to the Use of Synthetic Antioxidant Vitamins on Yield, Quality, and Oxidative Status of Poultry Products: A Review of the Literature of the Last 20 Years
Authors: Pitino Rosario , De Marchi Massimo , Manuelian Carmen L. , Johnson Marion , Simoni Marica , Righi Federico , Tsiplakou Eleni
Published: May 2021

Scientific evidence demonstrates that plant feed additives (PFA) can be a viable alternative to synthetic antioxidant vitamins in poultry nutrition. PFA are represented by plants, essential oils, plant extracts, and by-products from herbal or crop processing. The use of PFA in the feed industry has increased in recent years as their biologically active compounds (polyphenols) have demonstrated antimicrobial and antioxidant effects in food-producing animals. However, few trials have directly compared the effects of PFA with synthetic vitamins. After a systematic literature review of studies comparing the effects of PFA and synthetic vitamins on poultry products in the last 20 years (2000–2020), a total of 44 peer-reviewed articles were included in the present work. A positive effect of PFA on poultry products’ oxidative stability during storage, organoleptic characteristics, and fatty acids profile has been observed without a specific impact on their performances. The effects of PFA are variable but often similar to those of vitamin E, suggesting the opportunity for a partial substitution of the latter in poultry diets.
Long-Term Numerical Analysis of Subsurface Delamination Detection in Concrete Slabs via Infrared Thermography
Authors: Pozzer Sandra , Dalla Rosa Francisco , Pravia Zacarias Martin Chamberlain , Rezazadeh Azar Ehsan , Maldague Xavier
Published: May 2021

One of the concerns about the use of passive Infrared Thermography (IRT) for structural health monitoring (SHM) is the determination of a favorable period to conduct the inspections. This paper investigates the use of numerical simulations to find appropriate periods for IRT-based detection of subsurface damages in concrete bridge slabs under passive heating along a 1 year of time span. A model was built using the Finite Element Method (FEM) and calibrated using the results of a set of thermographic field inspections on a concrete slab sample. The results showed that the numerical simulation properly reproduced the experimental thermographic measurements of the concrete structure under passive heating, allowing the analysis to be extended for a longer testing period. The long-term FEM results demonstrated that the months of spring and summer are the most suitable for passive IRT inspections in this study, with around 17% more detections compared to the autumn and winter periods in Brazil. By enhancing the possibility of using FEM beyond the design stage, we demonstrate that this computation tool can provide support to long-term SHM.
Ontology-Based Knowledge Representation in Robotic Systems: A Survey Oriented toward Applications
Authors: Manzoor Sumaira , Rocha Yuri Goncalves , Joo Sung-Hyeon , Bae Sang-Hyeon , Kim Eun-Jin , Joo Kyeong-Jin , Kuc Tae-Yong
Published: May 2021

Knowledge representation in autonomous robots with social roles has steadily gained importance through their supportive task assistance in domestic, hospital, and industrial activities. For active assistance, these robots must process semantic knowledge to perform the task more efficiently. In this context, ontology-based knowledge representation and reasoning (KR & R) techniques appear as a powerful tool and provide sophisticated domain knowledge for processing complex robotic tasks in a real-world environment. In this article, we surveyed ontology-based semantic representation unified into the current state of robotic knowledge base systems, with our aim being three-fold: (i) to present the recent developments in ontology-based knowledge representation systems that have led to the effective solutions of real-world robotic applications; (ii) to review the selected knowledge-based systems in seven dimensions: application, idea, development tools, architecture, ontology scope, reasoning scope, and limitations; (iii) to pin-down lessons learned from the review of existing knowledge-based systems for designing better solutions and delineating research limitations that might be addressed in future studies. This survey article concludes with a discussion of future research challenges that can serve as a guide to those who are interested in working on the ontology-based semantic knowledge representation systems for autonomous robots.
Economic Assessment and Control Strategy of Combined Heat and Power Employed in Centralized Domestic Hot Water Systems
Authors: Zheng Peijun , Liu Peng , Zhang Yeqi
Published: May 2021

With the increasing application of CHP and an industry transition to distributed energy, it is necessary to make a comprehensive economic analysis and comparison of the entire lifetime of CHP from the net present value (NPV), payback period, and cost-saving ratio (CSR). Five systems, including micro-CHP, gas boiler (GB), air-source heat pump (ASHP), domestic gas-fired heater and domestic electric hot water-heater, are simulated. First, this paper takes annual heat use efficiency (AHUE) into account to compare the economy of each domestic hot water (DHW) system. The results show that a domestic gas-fired heater system is the most economical option in the AHUE of 31.28%. The economic influence of CHP and gas-fired heater under different AHUE are then analyzed. The results show that the DHW system based on CHP is the best when the AHUE is more than 55.35%. Finally, three different operation strategies of CHP are considered in this paper. From the perspective of annual energy cost and payback, the internal combustion-based CHP with thermal energy system (TES) is superior to the other two strategies being studied. Considering the optimal economic benefits, the CSR of the three different operation strategies is 41.3%, 69.69% and 69.77%, respectively.
An Agent-Specific Stochastic Model of Generalized Reaching Task Difficulty
Authors: Lucchese Andrea , Digiesi Salvatore , Akbaş Kübra , Mummolo Carlotta
Published: May 2021

The ability of an agent to accomplish a trajectory during a certain motor task depends on the fit between external (environment) and internal (agent) constraints, also known as affordance. A model of difficulty for a generalized reaching motor task is proposed as an affordance-related measure, as perceived by a specific agent for a given environment and task. By extending the information-based Index of Difficulty of a trajectory, a stochastic model of difficulty is formulated based on the observed variability of spatial trajectories executed by a given agent during a repetitive motor task. The model is tested on an experimental walking dataset available in the literature, where the repetitive stride movement of differently aged subjects (14 “old” subjects aged 50–73; 20 “young” subjects aged 21–37) at multiple speed conditions (comfortable, ~30% faster, ~30% slower) is analyzed. Reduced trajectory variability in older as compared to younger adults results in a higher Index of Difficulty (slower: +24%, p < 0.0125; faster: +38%, p < 0.002) which is interpreted in this context as reduced affordance. The model overcomes the limits of existing difficulty measures by capturing the stochastic dependency of task difficulty on a subject’s age and average speed. This model provides a benchmarking tool for motor performance in biomechanics and ergonomics applications.
Machine and Deep Learning Applied to Predict Metabolic Syndrome without a Blood Screening
Authors: Gutiérrez-Esparza Guadalupe O. , Ramírez-delReal Tania A. , Martínez-García Mireya , Infante Vázquez Oscar , Vallejo Maite , Hernández-Torruco José
Published: May 2021

The exponential increase of metabolic syndrome and its association with the risk impact of morbidity and mortality has propitiated the development of tools to diagnose this syndrome early. This work presents a model that is based on prognostic variables to classify Mexicans with metabolic syndrome without blood screening applying machine and deep learning. The data that were used in this study contain health parameters related to anthropometric measurements, dietary information, smoking habit, alcohol consumption, quality of sleep, and physical activity from 2289 participants of the Mexico City Tlalpan 2020 cohort. We use accuracy, balanced accuracy, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value criteria to evaluate the performance and validate different models. The models were separated by gender due to the shared features and different habits. Finally, the highest performance model in women found that the most relevant features were: waist circumference, age, body mass index, waist to height ratio, height, sleepy manner that is associated with snoring, dietary habits related with coffee, cola soda, whole milk, and Oaxaca cheese and diastolic and systolic blood pressure. Men’s features were similar to women’s; the variations were in dietary habits, especially in relation to coffee, cola soda, flavored sweetened water, and corn tortilla consumption. The positive predictive value obtained was 84.7% for women and 92.29% for men. With these models, we offer a tool that supports Mexicans to prevent metabolic syndrome by gender; it also lays the foundation for monitoring the patient and recommending change habits.
Effectiveness of Combined Treatment Using Physical Exercise and Ultrasound-Guided Radiofrequency Ablation of Genicular Nerves in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: de Sire Alessandro , Lippi Lorenzo , Curci Claudio , Calafiore Dario , Cisari Carlo , Ammendolia Antonio , Invernizzi Marco
Published: May 2021

Radiofrequency (RF) is a mini-invasive neuromodulation intervention that is commonly used in chronic pain conditions including general musculoskeletal pain related to several diseases, including knee osteoarthritis (KOA). However, to date, few studies investigated synergistic therapeutic approaches combining RF with rehabilitative physical exercise protocols in KOA patients. This prospective cohort study aimed at assessing the short-term effects on pain in KOA patients of a multimodal intervention consisting of ultrasound (US)-guided RF geniculate ablation and concomitant rehabilitative physical exercise. We included grade III KOA patients with knee pain (Numerical Pain Rating Scale, NPRS >4) not responsive to conventional treatments. They underwent a combined intervention including US-guided RF geniculate ablation and a 2-week physical exercise program. At the baseline (T0) and 1 month after (T1) we assessed: NPRS, Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Scale (KOOS), quality of life, exercise adherence, and safety. All the 47 KOA patients enrolled (68.8 ± 13.7 years old) showed a reduction of pain (NPRS: 7.48 ± 1.74; 3.63 ± 1.68; p < 0.001). In addition, there was a significant improvement (p < 0.05) also in the other functioning and HRQoL outcomes. Adherence to the exercise program was over 80% in more than half (28) of the patients. No major adverse events were reported. These findings suggested that US-guided RF ablation of genicular nerves combined with rehabilitative exercise therapy might be considered a safe and effective approach in the complex management of KOA patients.
Evaluating Service-Oriented and Microservice Architecture Patterns to Deploy eHealth Applications in Cloud Computing Environment
Authors: Calderón-Gómez Huriviades , Mendoza-Pittí Luis , Vargas-Lombardo Miguel , Gómez-Pulido José Manuel , Rodríguez-Puyol Diego , Sención Gloria , Polo-Luque María-Luz
Published: May 2021

This article proposes a new framework for a Cloud-based eHealth platform concept focused on Cloud computing environments, since current and emerging approaches using digital clinical history increasingly demonstrate their potential in maintaining the quality of the benefits in medical care services, especially in computer-assisted clinical diagnosis within the field of infectious diseases and due to the worsening of chronic pathologies. Our objective is to evaluate and contrast the performance of the architectural patterns most commonly used for developing eHealth applications (i.e., service-oriented architecture (SOA) and microservices architecture (MSA)), using as reference the quantitative values obtained from the various performance tests and their ability to adapt to the required software attribute (i.e., versatile high-performance). Therefore, it was necessary to modify our platform to fit two architectural variants. As a follow-up to this activity, corresponding tests were performed that showed that the MSA variant functions better in terms of performance and response time compared to the SOA variant; however, it consumed significantly more bandwidth than SOA, and scalability in SOA is generally not possible or requires significant effort to be achieved. We conclude that the implementation of SOA and MSA depends on the nature and needs of organizations (e.g., performance or interoperability).
Anomalous Beam Transport through Gabor (Plasma) Lens Prototype
Authors: Nonnenmacher Toby , Dascalu Titus-Stefan , Bingham Robert , Cheung Chung Lim , Lau Hin-Tung , Long Ken , Pozimski Jürgen , Whyte Colin
Published: May 2021

An electron plasma lens is a cost-effective, compact, strong-focusing element that can ensure efficient capture of low-energy proton and ion beams from laser-driven sources. A Gabor lens prototype was built for high electron density operation at Imperial College London. The parameters of the stable operation regime of the lens and its performance during a beam test with 1.4 MeV protons are reported here. Narrow pencil beams were imaged on a scintillator screen 67 cm downstream of the lens. The lens converted the pencil beams into rings that show position-dependent shape and intensity modulation that are dependent on the settings of the lens. Characterisation of the focusing effect suggests that the plasma column exhibited an off-axis rotation similar to the m=1 diocotron instability. The association of the instability with the cause of the rings was investigated using particle tracking simulations.
Modeling and Test Results of an Innovative Gyroscope Wave Energy Converter
Authors: Pei Zhongcai , Jing Hao , Tang Zhiyong
Published: May 2021

An improved Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) method based on a purely mechanical wave energy converter (WEC) of gyroscope precession is proposed. The method adopts dynamic perturbation step adjustment, which improves the stability of power output and reduces steady-state oscillation. The paper introduces the principle of the device, establishes the mathematical model, and obtains the complete expression of power. The effect of wave frequency, pitch amplitude, power take-off (PTO) damping coefficient, and flywheel rotating speed on power output is analyzed. The output regression equation is established, and the extraction conditions of the maximum power are summarized and predicted. Aiming at the time-varying nature of actual ocean waves, a variable step size modified maximum power point (MPP) tracking control algorithm based on perturbation and observation (P&O) method is proposed. The algorithm has a unique technology to dynamically change the perturbation size, which not only improves the dynamic response but also reduces the oscillation. Besides, the boundary conditions ensure that the algorithm will not deviate from the motion trajectory, and the average filtering method and steady-state judgment can further reduce steady-state oscillation. In various ocean conditions, the proposed method has better output stability compared with other variable step size algorithms. Finally, different wave working conditions are given in the experiment, and the results verify the effectiveness of the proposed MPPT control strategy in experimental equipment. The device will be suitable for distributed power sources in small islands and ports.
Low-Complexity Pupil Tracking for Sunglasses-Wearing Faces for Glasses-Free 3D HUDs
Authors: Kang Dongwoo , Chang Hyun Sung
Published: May 2021

This study proposes a pupil-tracking method applicable to drivers both with and without sunglasses on, which has greater compatibility with augmented reality (AR) three-dimensional (3D) head-up displays (HUDs). Performing real-time pupil localization and tracking is complicated by drivers wearing facial accessories such as masks, caps, or sunglasses. The proposed method fulfills two key requirements: low complexity and algorithm performance. Our system assesses both bare and sunglasses-wearing faces by first classifying images according to these modes and then assigning the appropriate eye tracker. For bare faces with unobstructed eyes, we applied our previous regression-algorithm-based method that uses scale-invariant feature transform features. For eyes occluded by sunglasses, we propose an eye position estimation method: our eye tracker uses nonoccluded face area tracking and a supervised regression-based pupil position estimation method to locate pupil centers. Experiments showed that the proposed method achieved high accuracy and speed, with a precision error of <10 mm in <5 ms for bare and sunglasses-wearing faces for both a 2.5 GHz CPU and a commercial 2.0 GHz CPU vehicle-embedded system. Coupled with its performance, the low CPU consumption (10%) demonstrated by the proposed algorithm highlights its promise for implementation in AR 3D HUD systems.
Linear Parameter-Varying Model Predictive Control of AUV for Docking Scenarios
Authors: Uchihori Hiroshi , Cavanini Luca , Tasaki Mitsuhiko , Majecki Pawel , Yashiro Yusuke , Grimble Michael J. , Yamamoto Ikuo , van der Molen Gerrit M. , Morinaga Akihiro , Eguchi Kazuki
Published: May 2021

A control system for driving an Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) performing docking operations in presence of tidal current disturbances is proposed. The nonlinear model of the vehicle has been modelled in a Linear Parameter-Varying (LPV) form. This is suitable for the design of the control system using a model-based approach. The LPV model was used for a Model Predictive Control (MPC) design for computing the set of forces and moments driving the nonlinear vehicle model. The LPV-MPC control action is mapped into the reference signals for the actuators by using a Thrust Allocation (TA) algorithm. This was based on the nonlinear models for the actuators and their position and orientation on the vehicle’s hull. The structural decomposition of MPC and TA reduces the computational burden involved in computing the control law on-line on an embedded control board. Both MPC and TA algorithms use the vehicle’s linear and angular positions, and velocities that are estimated by an LPV based Kalman Filter (KF). The proposed control system has been tested in different docking scenarios using various tidal current disturbances acting on the vehicle as an unmeasured disturbance. The simulation results show the controller is effective in controlling the AUV over the range of control scenarios meeting the constraints and specifications.
Modeling Left Ventricle Perfusion in Healthy and Stenotic Conditions
Authors: Pannone Marilena
Published: May 2021

A theoretical fluid mechanical model is proposed for the investigation of myocardial perfusion in healthy and stenotic conditions. The model hinges on Terzaghi’s consolidation theory and reformulates the related unsteady flow equation for the simulation of the swelling–drainage alternation characterizing the diastolic–systolic phases. When compared with the outcome of experimental in vivo observations in terms of left ventricle transmural perfusion ratio (T.P.R.), the analytical solution provided by the present study for the time-dependent blood pressure and flow rate across the ventricle wall proves to consistently reproduce the basic mechanisms of both healthy and ischemic perfusion. Therefore, it could constitute a useful interpretative support to improve the comprehension of the basic hemodynamic mechanisms leading to the most common cardiac diseases. Additionally, it could represent the mathematical basis for the application of inverse methods aimed at estimating the characteristic parameters of ischemic perfusion (i.e., location and severity of coronary stenoses) via downstream ventricular measurements, possibly inspiring their assessment via non-invasive myocardial imaging techniques.
Characterization of Immune Cell Subsets of Tumor Infiltrating Lymphocytes in Brain Metastases
Authors: Croft Priyakshi , Chittoory Haarika , Nguyen Tam , Saunus Jodi , Kim Woo , McCart Reed Amy E. , Lim Malcolm , De Luca Xavier , Ferguson Kaltin , Niland Colleen , Mazzieri Roberta , Dolcetti Riccardo , Simpson Peter , Lakhani Sunil
Published: May 2021

The heterogeneity of tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) is not well characterized in brain metastasis. To address this, we performed a targeted analysis of immune-cell subsets in brain metastasis tissues to test immunosuppressive routes involved in brain metastasis. We performed multiplex immunofluorescence (mIF), using commercially available validated antibodies on formalin-fixed paraffin embedded whole sections. We quantitated the subsets of immune-cells utilizing a targeted panel of proteins including PanCK, CD8, CD4, VISTA and IBA-1, and analyzed an average of 15,000 cells per sample. Classifying tumors as either high (>30%) or low (<30%) TILs, we found that increased TILs density correlated with survival. Phenotyping these TILs we found tumors with low TILs had significantly higher expression of the immune-checkpoint molecule VISTA in tumor cells (p < 0.01) as well as in their microenvironment (p < 0.001). Contrastingly, the tumors with high TILs displayed higher levels of microglia, as measured by IBA-1 expression. Low TILs-tumors displayed CD8+ T-cells that co-express VISTA (p < 0.01) significantly more compared to high TILs group, where CD8+cells significantly co-express IBA-11 (p < 0.05). These results were supported by RNA analysis of a publicly available, independent cohort. Our work contributes to a growing understanding of the immune surveillance escape routes active in brain metastasis.
Dopamine D3 Receptor: Contemporary Views of Its Function and Pharmacology for Neuropsychiatric Diseases
Authors: De Deurwaerdère Philippe , Chagraoui Abdeslam
Published: May 2021

Biomolecules has launched a Special Issue entitled “Dopamine D3 Receptor: Contemporary Views of Its Function and Pharmacology for Neuropsychiatric Diseases [...]
Histamine Ingestion by Anopheles stephensi Alters Important Vector Transmission Behaviors and Infection Success with Diverse Plasmodium Species
Authors: Rodriguez Anna M. , Hambly Malayna G. , Jandu Sandeep , Simão-Gurge Raquel , Lowder Casey , Lewis Edwin E. , Riffell Jeffrey A. , Luckhart Shirley
Published: May 2021

An estimated 229 million people worldwide were impacted by malaria in 2019. The vectors of malaria parasites (Plasmodium spp.) are Anopheles mosquitoes, making their behavior, infection success, and ultimately transmission of great importance. Individuals with severe malaria can exhibit significantly increased blood concentrations of histamine, an allergic mediator in humans and an important insect neuromodulator, potentially delivered to mosquitoes during blood-feeding. To determine whether ingested histamine could alter Anopheles stephensi biology, we provisioned histamine at normal blood levels and at levels consistent with severe malaria and monitored blood-feeding behavior, flight activity, antennal and retinal responses to host stimuli and lifespan of adult female Anopheles stephensi. To determine the effects of ingested histamine on parasite infection success, we quantified midgut oocysts and salivary gland sporozoites in mosquitoes infected with Plasmodium yoelii and Plasmodium falciparum. Our data show that provisioning An. stephensi with histamine at levels consistent with severe malaria can enhance mosquito behaviors and parasite infection success in a manner that would be expected to amplify parasite transmission to and from human hosts. Such knowledge could be used to connect clinical interventions by reducing elevated histamine to mitigate human disease pathology with the delivery of novel lures for improved malaria control.
Ionothermal Synthesis of Triclinic SAPO-34 Zeolites
Authors: Han Li , Yan Xinxin , Guo Lulu , Duan Yanan , Wang Zheng , Lu Tianliang , Xu Jun , Zhan Yuzhong , Wang Jianfeng
Published: May 2021

A triclinic SAPO-34 molecular sieve was synthesized ionothermally. The as-synthesized products were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), fourier infrared spectrometer (FT-IR) and thermogravimetric (TG) analyses. The formation mechanism of the hierarchical porous triclinic SAPO-34 zeolites and the factors affecting the morphology of the SAPO-34 molecular sieve were investigated. The results show that the formation mechanism of the hierarchical pores is in accordance with Ostwald ripening theory, and the accumulation of grains constitutes the existence of mesopores and macropores. The crystallization temperature, ionic liquid type, and organic amines can effectively change the morphology and crystallinity of the SAPO-34 molecular sieve. The crystallization temperature, ionic liquid and template have great influence on the (111) crystal plane, thus affecting the morphology of the molecular sieve. Moreover, it can be proven through NMR and TG analyses that ionic liquids and organic amines can be used as structure directing agents together.
Comparison of Mechanical and Physicochemical Characteristics of Potato Starch and Gelatine Blend Bioplastics Made with Gelatines from Different Sources
Authors: Mroczkowska Marta , Culliton David , Germaine Kieran , Neves Adriana
Published: May 2021

Environmentally friendly packaging is becoming more popular as the number of companies implementing more sustainable solutions continues to increase, and consumers become more aware and choose more environmentally friendly options. However, not all environmentally friendly packaging meets all desirable properties, as some are only partially made of renewable raw materials or degrade over a long period of time. Bioplastics constructed from blends of gelatine and starch are solely made from renewable raw materials. Combined with relatively short degradation times, these materials have the potential to replace currently used, non-biodegradable film and single-use plastics. However, despite these advantages, further research is required to identify the best combination of raw materials, selectively and collectively, and to then optimise the appropriate physicochemical properties of the resultant bioplastics. In this study, gelatine from different sources (piscine, porcine, bovine) combined with potato starch was used to generate home-compostable bioplastics. These bioplastics were assessed in terms of water solubility, water content, opacity, surface roughness, and key mechanical properties such as tensile strength. Significant differences were found, particularly for piscine gelatine blends. It was concluded that piscine gelatine is a promising protein with highly relevant properties for the bioplastics industry.
Current Landscape of Targeted Therapy in Hormone Receptor-Positive and HER2-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Andrahennadi Samitha , Sami Amer , Manna Mita , Pauls Mehrnoosh , Ahmed Shahid
Published: May 2021

Background: Hormone receptor-positive and HER2-negative breast cancer (HR + BC) is the most prevalent breast cancer. Endocrine therapy is the mainstay of treatment, however, due to the heterogeneous nature of the disease, resistance to endocrine therapy is not uncommon. Over the past decades, the emergence of novel targeted therapy in combination with endocrine therapy has shown improvement in outcomes of HR + BC. This paper reviews available data of targeted therapy and the results of pivotal clinical trials in the management of HR + BC. Methods: A literature search in PubMed and Google Scholar was performed using keywords related to HR + BC and targeted therapy. Major relevant studies that were presented in international cancer research conferences were also included. Results: Endocrine therapy with tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitors are backbone treatments for women with early-stage HR + BC leading to a significant reduction in mortality. They can also be used for primary prevention in women with a high risk of breast cancer. Preliminary data has shown the efficacy of adjuvant cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) 4/6 inhibitor, abemaciclib, in high-risk disease in combination with aromatase inhibitors. For most women with advanced HR + BC, endocrine therapy is the primary treatment. Recent evidence has shown that the use of CKD 4/6 inhibitors, mTOR inhibitors, and PI3K inhibitors in combination with endocrine therapy has been associated with better outcomes and delays initiation of chemotherapy. Several novel agents are under study for HR + BC. Discussion: Targeted treatment options for HR + BC have evolved. The future of overcoming resistance to targeted therapy, novel compounds, and predictive markers are key to improving HR + BC outcomes.
Mimicking Complexity of Structured Data Matrix’s Information Content: Categorical Exploratory Data Analysis
Authors: Hsieh Fushing , Chou Elizabeth P. , Chen Ting-Li
Published: May 2021

We develop Categorical Exploratory Data Analysis (CEDA) with mimicking to explore and exhibit the complexity of information content that is contained within any data matrix: categorical, discrete, or continuous. Such complexity is shown through visible and explainable serial multiscale structural dependency with heterogeneity. CEDA is developed upon all features’ categorical nature via histogram and it is guided by all features’ associative patterns (order-2 dependence) in a mutual conditional entropy matrix. Higher-order structural dependency of k(≥3) features is exhibited through block patterns within heatmaps that are constructed by permuting contingency-kD-lattices of counts. By growing k, the resultant heatmap series contains global and large scales of structural dependency that constitute the data matrix’s information content. When involving continuous features, the principal component analysis (PCA) extracts fine-scale information content from each block in the final heatmap. Our mimicking protocol coherently simulates this heatmap series by preserving global-to-fine scales structural dependency. Upon every step of mimicking process, each accepted simulated heatmap is subject to constraints with respect to all of the reliable observed categorical patterns. For reliability and robustness in sciences, CEDA with mimicking enhances data visualization by revealing deterministic and stochastic structures within each scale-specific structural dependency. For inferences in Machine Learning (ML) and Statistics, it clarifies, upon which scales, which covariate feature-groups have major-vs.-minor predictive powers on response features. For the social justice of Artificial Intelligence (AI) products, it checks whether a data matrix incompletely prescribes the targeted system.
Light Field Image Quality Enhancement by a Lightweight Deformable Deep Learning Framework for Intelligent Transportation Systems
Authors: Ribeiro David Augusto , Silva Juan Casavílca , Lopes Rosa Renata , Saadi Muhammad , Mumtaz Shahid , Wuttisittikulkij Lunchakorn , Zegarra Rodríguez Demóstenes , Al Otaibi Sattam
Published: May 2021

Light field (LF) imaging has multi-view properties that help to create many applications that include auto-refocusing, depth estimation and 3D reconstruction of images, which are required particularly for intelligent transportation systems (ITSs). However, cameras can present a limited angular resolution, becoming a bottleneck in vision applications. Thus, there is a challenge to incorporate angular data due to disparities in the LF images. In recent years, different machine learning algorithms have been applied to both image processing and ITS research areas for different purposes. In this work, a Lightweight Deformable Deep Learning Framework is implemented, in which the problem of disparity into LF images is treated. To this end, an angular alignment module and a soft activation function into the Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) are implemented. For performance assessment, the proposed solution is compared with recent state-of-the-art methods using different LF datasets, each one with specific characteristics. Experimental results demonstrated that the proposed solution achieved a better performance than the other methods. The image quality results obtained outperform state-of-the-art LF image reconstruction methods. Furthermore, our model presents a lower computational complexity, decreasing the execution time.
A Hybrid YOLOv4 and Particle Filter Based Robotic Arm Grabbing System in Nonlinear and Non-Gaussian Environment
Authors: Gao Mingyu , Cai Qinyu , Zheng Bowen , Shi Jie , Ni Zhihao , Wang Junfan , Lin Huipin
Published: May 2021

In this paper, we propose a robotic arm grasping system suitable for complex environments. For a robotic arm, in order to achieve its accurate grasp of the target object, not only the vision but also a certain tracking ability should be provided. To improve the grasp quality, we propose a robotic arm grasping system using YOLOv4 combined with a particle filter (PF) algorithm, which can be applied in a nonlinear and non-Gaussian environment. Firstly, the coordinates of the bounding box in the image can be obtained through the YOLOv4 object detection algorithm. Secondly, the coordinates in the world system can be obtained through the eye-to-hand calibration system. Thirdly, a PF model can be established based on the coordinate changes of the target object. Finally, according to the predicted output of the PF, the robotic arm and the target object can reach the specific position at the same time and complete the grab. As the target object, the bowl is applied to experiments for the sake of achieving a more convincing demonstration. The experimental results show that the robotic arm grasping system proposed in this paper can accomplish the successful grasp at a rate of nearly 88%, even at a higher movement speed, which is of great significance to robot applications in various fields.
A Photovoltaic-Fed DC-Bus Islanded Electric Vehicles Charging System Based on a Hybrid Control Scheme
Authors: Huang Han , Balasubramaniam Senthooran , Todeschini Grazia , Santoso Surya
Published: May 2021

Electric vehicle (EV) charging stations fed by photovoltaic (PV) panels allow integration of various low-carbon technologies, and are gaining increasing attention as a mean to locally manage power generation and demand. This paper presents novel control schemes to improve coordination of an islanded PV-fed DC bus EV charging system during various disturbances, including rapid changes of irradiance, EV connection and disconnection, or energy storage unit (ESU) charging and discharging. A new hybrid control scheme combining the advantages of both master–slave control and droop control is proposed for a charging station supplying 20 EVs for a total power of 890 kW. In addition, a three-level (3L) boost converter with capacitor voltage balance control is designed for PV generation, with the aim to provide high voltage gain while employing a small inductor. The control techniques are implemented in a simulation environment. Various case studies are presented and analysed, confirming the effectiveness and stability of the control strategies proposed for the islanded charging system. For all tested conditions, the operating voltage is maintained within 5% of the rated value.
Enhancement of Advanced Metering Infrastructure Performance Using Unsupervised K-Means Clustering Algorithm
Authors: Molokomme Daisy Nkele , Chabalala Chabalala S. , Bokoro Pitshou N.
Published: May 2021

Data aggregation may be considered as the technique through which streams of data gathered from Smart Meters (SMs) can be processed and transmitted to a Utility Control Center (UCC) in a reliable and cost-efficient manner without compromising the Quality of Service (QoS) requirements. In a typical Smart Grid (SG) paradigm, the UCC is usually located far away from the consumers (SMs), which has led to a degradation in network performance. Although the data aggregation technique has been recognized as a favorable solution to optimize the network performance of the SG, the underlying issue to date is to determine the optimal locations for the Data Aggregation Points (DAPs), where network coverage and full connectivity for all SMs deployed within the network are achieved. In addition, the main concern of the aggregation technique is to minimize transmission and computational costs. In this sense, the number of DAPs deployed should be as minimal as possible while satisfying the QoS requirements of the SG. This paper presents a Neighborhood Area Network (NAN) placement scheme based on the unsupervised K-means clustering algorithm with silhouette index method to determine the efficient number of DAPs required under different SM densities and find the best locations for the deployment of DAPs. Poisson Point Process (PPP) has been deployed to model the locations of the SMs. The simulation results presented in this paper indicate that the NAN placement scheme based on the ageless unsupervised K-means clustering algorithm not only improves the accuracy in determining the number of DAPs required and their locations but may also improve the network performance significantly in terms of network coverage and full connectivity.
Investigation of Old Exploration Boreholes in the Lublin Basin with Regard to Potential Rotary-Percussion Drilling of Shale Gas Wells
Authors: Sliwa Tomasz , Sapińska-Śliwa Aneta , Korzec Michał , Gonet Andrzej , Jaszczur Marek , Ciepielowska Martyna , Gajdosz Artur
Published: May 2021

The rotary-percussion drilling method is a prospective way to decrease drilling costs. It is obvious, based on literature analyses and finished geothermal drilling, that the Lublin Basin can be perceived as the one where rotary-percussion drilling can be used to drill an overburden of shale rocks. The paper explained the geology of the Lublin Basin, its’ geological structures, and the possibility of the use of drilling with a down-the-hole hammer, which could significantly decrease the cost of the whole shale gas drilling investment. Data collected from the wells drilled in the Lublin Basin were compared and analyzed to determine the viability of rotary-percussion drilling. Provided analyses showed that using the rotary-percussion drilling method in the Lublin Basin had a greater possibility of application than in other Polish shale basins (Baltic and Podlasie).
Optimal Voltage–Frequency Regulation in Distributed Sustainable Energy-Based Hybrid Microgrids with Integrated Resource Planning
Authors: Barik Amar Kumar , Das Dulal Chandra , Latif Abdul , Hussain S. M. Suhail , Ustun Taha Selim
Published: May 2021

This work is the earliest attempt to propose an integrated resource planning for distributed hybrid microgrids considering virtual-inertia support (VIS) and demand-response support (DRS) systems. Initially, three-distributed sustainable energy-based unequal hybrid microgrids are envisioned with the availability of solar/wind/bioenergy resources. In order to overcome the effects of intermittency in renewable resources and low inertia, each microgrid is incorporated with DRS and VIS units for demand- and supply-side management, respectively. The proposed system is simulated in MATLAB considering real-time recorded solar/wind data with realistic loading for 12 months. A novel quasi-oppositional chaotic selfish-herd optimization (QCSHO) algorithm is proposed by hybridizing quasi-opposition-based learning and chaotic linear search techniques into the selfish-herd optimization, for optimal regulation of voltage and frequency in microgrids. Then, the system responses are compared with 7 algorithms and 5 error functions to tune PID controllers’ gains, which confirmed the superiority of QCSHO over others. Then, the study proceeds to investigate the voltage, frequency, and tie-line power coordination in 5 extreme scenarios of source and load variations in the proposed system without retuning the controllers. Finally, the system responses are analyzed for 10 different possible allocation of VIS and DRS units in different microgrids to find the most suitable combinations, and the results are recorded.