bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Solitary Wave Solutions for the Higher Dimensional Jimo-Miwa Dynamical Equation via New Mathematical Techniques
Authors: Seadawy Aly R. , Zahed Hanadi , Iqbal Mujahid
Published: March 2022

In this study, under the considerations of symbolic computation with the help of Mathematica software, various types of solitary wave solutions for the (3 + 1)-dimensional Jimo–Miwa (JM) equation are successfully constructed based on the extended modified rational expansion method. The constructed solutions are novel and more general for the JM equation named kink wave solutions, anti-kink wave solutions, bright and dark solutions, mixed solutions in the shape of bright-dark solutions, and periodic waves, which do not exist in the existing literature. The physical phenomena of the demonstrated results is represented graphically by two-dimensional, three-dimensional, and contour images with the help of Mathematica. The obtained results will be widely used to explain the various interesting physical structures in the areas of optics, plasma, gas, acoustics, classical mechanics, fluid dynamics, heat transfer, and many others.
Adsorption of Cisplatin Molecules in Nanoporous Inorganic Materials as Drug Delivery Vehicles
Authors: Alshehri Mansoor H.
Published: March 2022

The use of nanoparticles as anticancer cargo systems for drug delivery is a promising modality, as they avoid the known toxicity of anticancer drugs on healthy cells by the delivery of multiple drugs to the target cells. Here, the adsorption behavior of cisplatin drug molecules in two different inorganic materials, silica and metallic gold, is investigated mathematically. The 6–12 Lennard-Jones potential, together with the continuum approximation, is adapted to calculate the molecular interatomic energies between molecules. For each material, the relation between the pore radius ℓ and the minimum energy is determined, and the results indicate that the minimum energy occurs when the radii are ℓ=5.3 and ℓ=4.7 Å for the silica and gold nanopores, respectively. The method is promising for applications in the design of novel nanocapsules for future targeted drug and gene delivery.
Optimal Time-Consistent Investment and Premium Control Strategies for Insurers with Constraint under the Heston Model
Authors: Liu Zilan , Wang Yijun , Huang Ya , Zhou Jieming
Published: March 2022

In this work, we study the optimal investment and premium control problem with the short-selling constraint under the mean-variance criterion. The claim process is assumed to follow the non-homogeneous compound Poisson process. The insurer invests the surplus in one risk-free asset and one risky asset described by the Heston model. Under these, we consider an optimization objective that maximizes the return (the expectation of terminal wealth) and minimizes the risk (the variance of terminal wealth). By constructing the extended Hamilton–Jacobi–Bellman (HJB) system with the dynamic programming method, the time-consistent strategies and the corresponding value function are obtained. Furthermore, we provide numerical examples to illustrate the effects of the model parameters on the optimal policies.
Biomaterials and Bioactive Natural Products from Marine Invertebrates: From Basic Research to Innovative Applications
Authors: Romano Giovanna , Almeida Mariana , Varela Coelho Ana , Cutignano Adele , Gonçalves Luis G , Hansen Espen , Khnykin Denis , Mass Tali , Ramšak Andreja , Rocha Miguel S. , Silva Tiago H. , Sugni Michela , Ballarin Loriano , Genevière Anne-Marie
Published: March 2022

Aquatic invertebrates are a major source of biomaterials and bioactive natural products that can find applications as pharmaceutics, nutraceutics, cosmetics, antibiotics, antifouling products and biomaterials. Symbiotic microorganisms are often the real producers of many secondary metabolites initially isolated from marine invertebrates; however, a certain number of them are actually synthesized by the macro-organisms. In this review, we analysed the literature of the years 2010–2019 on natural products (bioactive molecules and biomaterials) from the main phyla of marine invertebrates explored so far, including sponges, cnidarians, molluscs, echinoderms and ascidians, and present relevant examples of natural products of interest to public and private stakeholders. We also describe omics tools that have been more relevant in identifying and understanding mechanisms and processes underlying the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites in marine invertebrates. Since there is increasing attention on finding new solutions for a sustainable large-scale supply of bioactive compounds, we propose that a possible improvement in the biodiscovery pipeline might also come from the study and utilization of aquatic invertebrate stem cells.
Improved Productivity of Astaxanthin from Photosensitive Haematococcus pluvialis Using Phototaxis Technology
Authors: Lee Kang Hyun , Chun Youngsang , Lee Ja Hyun , Park Chulhwan , Yoo Hah Young , Kwak Ho Seok
Published: March 2022

Haematococcus pluvialis is a microalgae actively studied for the production of natural astaxanthin, which is a powerful antioxidant for human application. However, it is economically disadvantageous for commercialization owing to the low productivity of astaxanthin. This study reports an effective screening strategy using the negative phototaxis of the H. pluvialis to attain the mutants having high astaxanthin production. A polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)-based microfluidic device irradiated with a specific light was developed to efficiently figure out the phototactic response of H. pluvialis. The partial photosynthesis deficient (PP) mutant (negative control) showed a 0.78-fold decreased cellular response to blue light compared to the wild type, demonstrating the positive relationship between the photosynthetic efficiency and the phototaxis. Based on this relationship, the Haematococcus mutants showing photosensitivity to blue light were selected from the 10,000 random mutant libraries. The M1 strain attained from the phototaxis-based screening showed 1.17-fold improved growth rate and 1.26-fold increases in astaxanthin production (55.12 ± 4.12 mg g−1) in the 100 L photo-bioreactor compared to the wild type. This study provides an effective selection tool for industrial application of the H. pluvialis with improved astaxanthin productivity.
Filling the Upper Pole with the Pectoralis Major Muscle Flap in Profunda Femoris Artery Perforator Flap Breast Reconstruction
Authors: Yoshimatsu Hidehiko , Miyashita Hiroki , Karakawa Ryo , Fuse Yuma , Yano Tomoyuki
Published: March 2022

Background and Objectives: Among many donor site options for autologous breast reconstruction, the use of the profunda femoris artery perforator (PAP) flap has become common in patients who are not suitable for the gold standard procedure, the deep inferior epigastric artery perforator flap. However, its limited volume has precluded its wide use in breast reconstruction. The aim of this report was to demonstrate the effectiveness of a method in which the anatomical position of the pectoralis major muscle was adjusted to augment the volume of the superior pole of the breast during PAP flap transfer. A comparison was made with a conventional PAP flap breast reconstruction. Materials and Methods: Fifty-nine consecutive cases where unilateral autologous breast reconstruction was performed using the vertically designed PAP flap were retrospectively reviewed. Conventional PAP flap transfer was performed in 36 patients (Group 1), and PAP flap transfer with pectoralis major muscle augmentation was performed in 23 patients (Group 2). Results: The patient satisfaction at 12 months postoperatively was statistically greater in Group 2, with the pectoralis major muscle augmentation, than in Group 1 [23/36 (64%) vs. 22/23 (96%), p = 0.005]. There were no significant differences in postoperative complication rates at the reconstructed site [2/36 (5.6%) vs. 0/23 (0%), p = 0.52]. Conclusions: Higher patient satisfaction could be achieved with pectoralis major muscle augmentation in PAP flap breast reconstruction without increasing the postoperative complication rate at the reconstructed site.
Combined Membrane Dehumidification with Heat Exchangers Optimized Using CFD for High Efficiency HVAC Systems
Authors: Chandrasekaran Ajay Sekar , Fix Andrew J. , Warsinger David M.
Published: March 2022

Traditional air conditioning systems use a significant amount of energy on dehumidification by condensing water vapor out from the air. Membrane-based air conditioning systems help overcome this problem by avoiding condensation and treating the sensible and latent loads separately, using membranes that allow water vapor transport, but not air (nitrogen and oxygen). In this work, a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model has been developed to predict the heat and mass transfer and concentration polarization performance of a novel active membrane-based energy exchanger (AMX). The novel design is the first of its kind to integrate both vapor removal via membranes and air cooling into one device. The heat transfer results from the CFD simulations are compared with common empirical correlations for similar geometries. The performance of the AMX is studied over a broad range of operating conditions using the compared CFD model. The results show that strong tradeoffs result in optimal values for the channel length (0.6–0.8 m) and the ratio of coil diameter to channel height (~0.5). Water vapor transport is best if the flow is just past the turbulence transition around 3000–5000 Reynolds number. These trends hold over a range of conditions and dimensions.
L-Arginine and Cardioactive Arginine Derivatives as Substrates and Inhibitors of Human and Mouse NaCT/Nact
Authors: Surrer Daniela B. , Fromm Martin F. , Maas Renke , König Jörg
Published: March 2022

The uptake transporter NaCT (gene symbol SLC13A5) is expressed in liver and brain and important for energy metabolism and brain development. Substrates include tricarboxylic acid cycle intermediates, e.g., citrate and succinate. To gain insights into the substrate spectrum of NaCT, we tested whether arginine and the cardioactive L-arginine metabolites asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) and L-homoarginine are also transported by human and mouse NaCT/Nact. Using HEK293 cells overexpressing human or mouse NaCT/Nact we characterized these substances as substrates. Furthermore, inhibition studies were performed using the arginine derivative symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA), the NaCT transport inhibitor BI01383298, and the prototypic substrate citrate. Arginine and the derivatives ADMA and L-homoarginine were identified as substrates of human and mouse NaCT. Transport of arginine and derivatives mediated by human and mouse NaCT were dose-dependently inhibited by SDMA. Whereas BI01383298 inhibited only human NaCT-mediated citrate uptake, it inhibits the uptake of arginine and derivatives mediated by both human NaCT and mouse Nact. In contrast, the prototypic substrate citrate inhibited the transport of arginine and derivatives mediated only by human NaCT. These results demonstrate a so far unknown link between NaCT/Nact and L-arginine and its cardiovascular important derivatives.
Genomic and Experimental Analysis of the Biostimulant and Antagonistic Properties of Phytopathogens of Bacillus safensis and Bacillus siamensis
Authors: Altimira Fabiola , Godoy Sebastián , Arias-Aravena Matias , Araya Bárbara , Montes Christian , Castro Jean Franco , Dardón Elena , Montenegro Edgar , Pineda Wilson , Viteri Ignacio , Tapia Eduardo
Published: March 2022

The B. safensis RGM 2450 and B. siamensis RGM 2529 strains were isolated from the rhizosphere of plants presenting resilience to abiotic and biotic stress conditions. To understand the implications of bacteria in resilience, a genomic and experimental analysis was carried out on their biostimulant and phytopathogenic antagonist properties. Genome analyses of both strains indicated that they have the potential to synthesize bioactive compounds such as the battery of non-ribosomal peptides, polyketides, extracellular enzymes and phytohormones. These results were consistent with the antagonistic activities of both strains against the phytopathogens Botrytis cinerea, Colletotrichum acutatum, Fusarium oxysporum and Phytophtora cinnamomi. They also showed the capacity to solubilize phosphorus, fix nitrogen and produce indole acetic acid. This was observed in tomato seedlings grown from seeds inoculated with the mixture of strains which presented significantly greater length as well as wet and dry weight in comparison with the treatments individually inoculated with each strain and the control. Accordingly, the combination of B. safensis RGM 2450 and B. siamensis RGM 2529 showed synergistic biostimulant activity. These findings contribute new knowledge of the genomic and metabolomic properties taking part in the symbiotic interactions between these strains and the plants and uphold the combined use of both strains as a biostimulant.
Physico-Chemical and Metagenomic Profile Analyses of Animal Manures Routinely Used as Inocula in Anaerobic Digestion for Biogas Production
Authors: Mutungwazi Asheal , Ijoma Grace N. , Ogola Henry J. O. , Matambo Tonderayi S.
Published: March 2022

Anaerobic digestion (AD) of organic waste is considered a sustainable solution to energy shortage and waste management challenges. The process is facilitated by complex communities of micro-organisms, yet most wastes do not have these and thus need microbial inoculation using animal manures to initiate the process. However, the degradation efficiency and methane yield achieved in using different inocula vary due to their different microbial diversities. This study used metagenomics tools to compare the autochthonous microbial composition of cow, pig, chicken, and horse manures commonly used for biogas production. Cows exhibited the highest carbon utilisation (>30%) and showed a carbon to nitrogen ratio (C/N) favourable for microbial growth. Pigs showed the least nitrogen utilisation (<3%) which explains their low C/N whilst horses showed the highest nitrogen utilisation (>40%), which explains its high C/N above the optimal range of 20–30 for efficient AD. Manures from animals with similar gastrointestinal tract (GIT) physiologies were observed to largely harbour similar microbial communities. Conversely, some samples from animals with different GITs also shared common microbial communities plausibly because of similar diets and rearing conditions. Insights from this study will lay a foundation upon which in-depth studies of AD metabolic pathways and strategies to boost methane production through efficient catalysis can be derived.
Aspergillus niger as a Biological Input for Improving Vegetable Seedling Production
Authors: Mundim Gustavo de Souza Marques , Maciel Gabriel Mascarenhas , Mendes Gilberto de Oliveira
Published: March 2022

This study evaluated the potential of Aspergillus niger as an inoculant for growth promotion of vegetable seedlings. Seven vegetable species were evaluated in independent experiments carried out in 22 + 1 factorial schemes, with two doses of conidia (102 and 106 per plant) applied in two inoculation methods (seed treatment and in-furrow granular application), plus an uninoculated control. Experiments were carried out in a greenhouse. Growth parameters evaluated were shoot length, stem diameter, root volume, total root length, shoot and root fresh mass, shoot and root dry mass, and total dry mass. Regardless of the dose and inoculation method, seedlings inoculated with A. niger showed higher growth than uninoculated ones for all crops. The highest relative increase promoted by the fungus was observed for aboveground parts, increasing the production of shoot fresh mass of lettuce (61%), kale (40%), scarlet eggplant (101%), watermelon (38%), melon (16%), pepper (92%), and tomato (42%). Aspergillus niger inoculation also increased seedling root growth of lettuce, pepper, scarlet eggplant, watermelon, and tomato. This research shows that A. niger boosts the growth of all analyzed vegetables, appearing as a promising bio-input for vegetable seedling production.
Customized Minimally Invasive Protocols for the Clinical and Microbiological Management of the Oral Microbiota
Authors: Scribante Andrea , Butera Andrea , Alovisi Mario
Published: March 2022

In recent years, the personalization of periodontal clinical practice has led to the study of protocols with a proactive approach [...]
Colonization of Dogs and Their Owners with Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus pseudintermedius in Households, Veterinary Practices, and Healthcare Facilities
Authors: Cuny Christiane , Layer-Nicolaou Franziska , Weber Robert , Köck Robin , Witte Wolfgang
Published: March 2022

There are uncertainties with respect to the transmission of methicillin-susceptible and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA and MRSA) and Staphylococcus pseudintermedius between dogs and humans. In this study, we investigated concomitant nasal colonization of dogs and humans in three cohorts. Cohort I, households owning dogs: In 42 of 84 households, 66 humans (36.9%) and 10 dogs (8.9%) carried S. aureus. MRSA, attributed to sequence type (ST) 22 and ST130, were detected in two (1.1%) of the humans but in none of the dogs. Typing by means of spa-typing and whole-genome sequencing (WGS) indicated eight transmissions of S. aureus between humans and dogs in 8 of 42 (19.0%) households with human S. aureus carriers, whereas in 11 of 38 (29.0%) households with ≥two persons and S. aureus colonization of humans, 15 human-to-human transmissions were observed (p = 0.43). S. pseudintermedius was isolated from 42 dogs (37.5%), but from only one human (0.6%). In this case, WGS-based typing indicated strong relatedness of this isolate with a canine isolate from the same household. Cohort II, dogs and their owners visiting a veterinary practice: Among 17 humans and 17 dogs attending a veterinary practice, MSSA was detected in three humans and two dogs, and S. pseudintermedius in only six dogs. Cohort III, dogs used for animal-assisted interventions in human healthcare facilities and their owners: MSSA was obtained in 1 of 59 dogs (1.7%) and in 17 of 60 (28.3%) of the dog owners, while S. pseudintermedius was isolated from seven (12%) dogs and one (1.7%) human owner. We conclude that the risk of exchanging S. aureus/MRSA between humans and dogs is higher than that for S. pseudintermedius.
Molecular Detection and Characterization of Babesia and Theileria in Cattle and Water Buffaloes from Southern Luzon, Philippines
Authors: Prado Ian Cary B. , Capuno Larry Xerxes B. , Collera Princess DLP. , Cabralda Aaron Paul D. , De Ramos Kristina Andrea S. , Bernardo John Michael G. , Divina Billy P. , Masatani Tatsunori , Tanaka Tetsuya , Galay Remil L.
Published: March 2022

Babesia and Theileria are tick-borne protozoan parasites that can cause significant economic losses in the cattle industry. This study aimed to contribute to the limited epidemiological data on Theileria orientalis as well as Babesia bigemina and B. bovis in large ruminants in the Philippines. Blood samples of 412 cattle and 108 water buffalo collected from four provinces in Southern Luzon, Philippines, were initially tested for the 18S rRNA gene of piroplasms through nested PCR. Positive samples were further subjected to species-specific PCR. The 18s rRNA of piroplasms was detected in 123 (29.9%) cattle and three (2.8%) water buffaloes. Theileria orientalis was found to be the most common piroplasm in cattle with a detection rate of 17.5%, followed by Babesia bovis and B. bigemina. Co-infections were also observed. Two water buffaloes were found infected with B. bovis, while one was positive for B. bigemina. The phylogenetic tree for B. bovis showed clustering of the isolates in two clades together with isolates from other countries, and a third separate clade. Meanwhile, the T. orientalis isolates in this study were distributed in three clades together with reported isolates from other countries. This study confirms the presence of T. orientalis in the Philippines and reports the genetic diversity of B. bovis and T. orientalis.
Identifying Different Mutation Sites Leading to Resistance to the Direct-Acting Antiviral (DAA) Sofosbuvir in Hepatitis C Virus Patients from Egypt
Authors: Shoun Aly Atef , Abozahra Rania , Baraka Kholoud , Mehrez Mai , Abdelhamid Sarah M.
Published: March 2022

The hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a major global health challenge and a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Many direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) target essential macromolecules involved in the virus’ life cycle. Although such DAAs achieve great success in reducing the viral load in genotype 1 infections, other genotypes demonstrate different levels of response. This study focused on mutation sites associated with patients with genotype 4a infections that failed to respond to treatment with sofosbuvir. The genotyping of HCV samples from patients with virological failure, and responder patients, was conducted using Geno2Pheno webserver-based full NS5B sequences. We constructed 3D structural models for all the samples and used structural analysis to investigate the effect of amino acid substitution on the observed resistance to SOF-based treatment, and the docking of sofosbuvir into the active sites of the 10 models was performed. Finally, 10 molecular dynamic (MD) simulation experiments were conducted to compare the stability of the 3D models of the resistant samples against the stability of the 3D models of the responder samples. The results highlighted the presence of HCV subtype 4a in all ten samples; in addition, an amino acid (aa) substitution in the palm region may hinder HCV polymerase activity. In this study, we provide evidence that a mutation in the NS5B gene that induces resistance to sofosbuvir in patients with the S282T/C/R mutant virus is present in the Egyptian population. Overall, the docking and MD results support our findings and highlight the significant impact of the identified mutations on the resistance of HCV NS5B RNA-dependent RNA polymerase to direct-acting antivirals (DAAs).
Can Aggregate-Associated Organisms Influence the Fouling in a SWRO Desalination Plant?
Authors: Jamieson Tamar , Whiley Harriet , Gascooke Jason , Leterme Sophie
Published: March 2022

This pilot study investigates the formation of aggregates within a desalination plant, before and after pre-treatment, as well as their potential impact on fouling. The objective is to provide an understanding of the biofouling potential of the feed water within a seawater reverse osmosis (SWRO) desalination plant, due to the limited removal of fouling precursors. The 16S and 18S rRNA was extracted from the water samples, and the aggregates and sequenced. Pre-treatment systems, within the plant remove < 5 µm precursors and organisms; however, smaller size particles progress through the plant, allowing for the formation of aggregates. These become hot spots for microbes, due to their nutrient gradients, facilitating the formation of niche environments, supporting the proliferation of those organisms. Aggregate-associated organisms are consistent with those identified on fouled SWRO membranes. This study examines, for the first time, the factors supporting the formation of aggregates within a desalination system, as well as their microbial communities and biofouling potential.
No Effect of Chronotype on Hunger or Snack Consumption during a Night Shift with Acute Sleep Deprivation
Authors: Reiter Andrew M. , Roach Gregory D. , Sargent Charli
Published: March 2022

Night shift workers experience circadian misalignment and sleep disruption, which impact hunger and food consumption. The study aim was to assess the impact of chronotype on hunger and snack consumption during a night shift with acute sleep deprivation. Seventy-two (36f, 36m) healthy adults participated in a laboratory study. A sleep opportunity (03:00–12:00) was followed by a wake period (12:00–23:00) and a simulated night shift (23:00–07:00). Subjective measures of hunger, prospective consumption, desire to eat fruit, and desire to eat fast food were collected before (12:20, 21:50) and after (07:20) the night shift. Snack opportunities were provided before (15:10, 19:40) and during (23:50, 03:30) the night shift. A tertile split of the dim light melatonin onset (DLMO) distribution defined early (20:24 ± 0:42 h), intermediate (21:31 ± 0:12 h), and late chronotype (22:56 ± 0:54 h) categories. There were no main effects of chronotype on any subjective measure (p = 0.172–0.975), or on snack consumption (p = 0.420), and no interactions between chronotype and time of day on any subjective measure (p = 0.325–0.927) or on snack consumption (p = 0.511). Differences in circadian timing between chronotype categories were not associated with corresponding differences in hunger, prospective consumption, desire to eat fruit, desire to eat fast food, or snack consumption at any measurement timepoint.
Causal Associations of Circulating Lipids with Osteoarthritis: A Bidirectional Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Meng Hongen , Jiang Li , Song Zijun , Wang Fudi
Published: March 2022

Osteoarthritis (OA) imposes an increasing social burden due to global activity limitations, especially among the aged. Links between circulating lipids and OA have been reported; however, confounding data from observational studies have hindered causal conclusions. We used Mendelian randomization (MR) approach to evaluate the genetic causal effects of circulating apolipoproteins and lipoprotein lipids on OA risk. Genetic instruments at the genome-wide significance level (p < 5 × 10−8) were selected from genome-wide association studies (n = 393,193–441,016 individuals). Summary-level OA data were obtained from the UK Biobank (39,427 cases, 378,169 controls). Bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses used MR-Egger, weighted median, and MR-PRESSO for sensitivity analysis. Genetic predisposition to 1-SD increments of Apolipoprotein B (APOB), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) was associated with a decreased risk of knee or hip OA (KHOA) (odds ratio (OR) = 0.925, 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 0.881–0.972, p = 0.002; OR = 0.898, 95% CI: 0.843–0.957, p = 0.001) and hip OA (HOA) (OR = 0.894; 95% CI: 0.832–0.961, p = 0.002; OR = 0.870 95% CI: 0.797–0.949, p = 0.002). Genetically predicted APOB showed an association with knee OA (KOA) (OR per SD increase, 0.930, 95% CI: 0.876–0.987, p = 0.016). The OR of KOA was 0.899 (95% CI: 0.835–0.968, p = 0.005) for a 1-SD increase in LDL. Apolipoprotein A1, high-density lipoprotein, and triglycerides showed no association. Inverse MR showed no causal effect of KOA, HOA, or KHOA on these serum lipids. Distinct protective genetic-influence patterns were observed for APOB and LDL on OA, offering new insights into relationships between lipids and OA risk and a better understanding of OA etiology.
Biomarkers to Predict the Success of Treatment with the Intravitreal 0.19 mg Fluocinolone Acetonide Implant in Uveitic Macular Edema
Authors: Kessler Lucy Joanne , Łabuz Grzegorz , Auffarth Gerd U. , Khoramnia Ramin
Published: March 2022

To predict the need for additional local corticosteroids after receiving the 0.19 mg fluocinolone acetonide (FAc) implant in patients with macular edema secondary to non-infectious uveitis previously treated with local peribulbar corticosteroids. The number of corticosteroids required prior FAc, visual acuity, central retinal thickness, ellipsoid zone reflectivity ratio (EZR), and choroidal vascularity index (CVI) were compared between patients who did and did not require additional corticosteroids after FAc implantation. Pearson’s correlation coefficient (R) between putative predictors and the number of adjunctive corticosteroids after FAc implantation were measured; significant candidates were included in a generalized regression model. Patients who required additional corticosteroids after FAc had higher CVI and central retinal thickness as well as worse EZR at subsequent visits (p < 0.05). The number of corticosteroids required prior to FAc implantation (R: 0.49), CVI change from baseline to 6 months (R: −0.41), and central retinal thickness at baseline (R: −0.36) correlated to the number of additional corticosteroids (all p < 0.05). A higher number of corticosteroids per year before FAc implantation was predictive for an increase in corticosteroids required after FAc (odds ratio = 2.65), while a decrease in CVI from baseline to 6 months was inversely correlated (odds ratio = 0.82). Our results suggest that the more corticosteroids prior to FAc and the greater the short-term CVI reducing effect, the less is the chance to get additional corticosteroids after FAc.
Novel Methacrylate-Based Multilayer Nanofilms with Incorporated FePt-Based Nanoparticles and the Anticancer Drug 5-Fluorouracil for Skin Cancer Treatment
Authors: Skok Kristijan , Zidarič Tanja , Orthaber Kristjan , Pristovnik Matevž , Kostevšek Nina , Žužek Rožman Kristina Žužek , Šturm Sašo , Gradišnik Lidija , Maver Uroš , Maver Tina
Published: March 2022

Despite medical advances, skin-associated disorders continue to pose a unique challenge to physicians worldwide. Skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer, with more than one million new cases reported each year. Currently, surgical excision is its primary treatment; however, this can be impractical or even contradictory in certain situations. An interesting potential alternative could lie in topical treatment solutions. The goal of our study was to develop novel multilayer nanofilms consisting of a combination of polyhydroxyethyl methacrylate (PHEMA), polyhydroxypropyl methacrylate (PHPMA), sodium deoxycholate (NaDOC) with incorporated superparamagnetic iron–platinum nanoparticles (FePt NPs), and the potent anticancer drug (5-fluorouracil), for theranostic skin cancer treatment. All multilayer systems were prepared by spin-coating and characterised by atomic force microscopy, infrared spectroscopy, and contact angle measurement. The magnetic properties of the incorporated FePt NPs were evaluated using magnetisation measurement, while their size was determined using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Drug release performance was tested in vitro, and formulation safety was evaluated on human-skin-derived fibroblasts. Finally, the efficacy for skin cancer treatment was tested on our own basal-cell carcinoma cell line.
High-Efficiency Grating Couplers for Pixel-Level Flat-Top Beam Generation
Authors: Tian Zhong-Tao , Zhuang Ze-Peng , Fan Zhi-Bin , Chen Xiao-Dong , Dong Jian-Wen
Published: March 2022

We demonstrate a kind of grating coupler that generates a high quality flat-top beam with a small beamwidth from photonic integrated circuits into free-space. The grating coupler is designed on a silicon-on-insulator wafer with a 220-nm-thick silicon layer and consists of a dual-etch grating (DG) and a distributed Bragg reflector (DBR). By adjusting the structural parameters of DG and DBR, a pixel-level (6.6 µm) flat-top beam with a vertical radiation of −0.5 dB and a mode match of 97% at 1550 nm is realized. Furthermore, a series of high-efficiency grating couplers are designed to create a flat-top beam with different scales.
3D Volume Rendering of Invertebrates Using Light-Sheet Fluorescence Microscopy
Authors: Gualda Emilio J.
Published: March 2022

Light-Sheet Fluorescence Microscopy has recently emerged as the technique of choice for obtaining high quality three-dimensional (3D) images of whole organisms, with low photo-damage and fast acquisition rates. Unlike conventional optical and confocal microscopy or scanning electron microscopy systems, it offers the possibility of obtaining multiple views of the sample by rotating it. We show that the use of light-sheet fluorescence microscopy, for the analysis of invertebrates, provides a fair compromise compared to scanning electron microscopy in terms of resolution, but avoids some of its drawbacks, such as sample preparation or limited three-dimensional perspectives. In this paper, we will show how LSFM techniques can provide a cheap, high quality, multicolor, 3D alternative to classic microscopes, for the study of the morphological structure of insects and invertebrates in morphogenesis studies of the whole animal.
Insights into the Genomic Architecture of Seed and Pod Quality Traits in the U.S. Peanut Mini-Core Diversity Panel
Authors: Patel Jinesh D. , Wang Ming Li , Dang Phat , Butts Chris , Lamb Marshall , Chen Charles Y.
Published: March 2022

Traits such as seed weight, shelling percent, percent sound mature kernels, and seed dormancy determines the quality of peanut seed. Few QTL (quantitative trait loci) studies using biparental mapping populations have identified QTL for seed dormancy and seed grade traits. Here, we report a genome-wide association study (GWAS) to detect marker–trait associations for seed germination, dormancy, and seed grading traits in peanut. A total of 120 accessions from the U.S. peanut mini-core collection were evaluated for seed quality traits and genotyped using Axiom SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) array for peanut. We observed significant variation in seed quality traits in different accessions and different botanical varieties. Through GWAS, we were able to identify multiple regions associated with sound mature kernels, seed weight, shelling percent, seed germination, and dormancy. Some of the genomic regions that were SNP associated with these traits aligned with previously known QTLs. For instance, QTL for seed dormancy has been reported on chromosome A05, and we also found SNP on the same chromosome associated with seed dormancy, explaining around 20% of phenotypic variation. In addition, we found novel genomic regions associated with seed grading, seed germination, and dormancy traits. SNP markers associated with seed quality and dormancy identified here can accelerate the selection process. Further, exploring the function of candidate genes identified in the vicinity of the associated marker will assist in understanding the complex genetic network that governs seed quality.
Nitrogen Footprint of a Recycling System Integrated with Cropland and Livestock in the North China Plain
Authors: Du Hailun , Cui Jixiao , Xu Yinan , Zhao Yingxing , Chen Lin , Li Zhejin , Sui Peng , Gao Wangsheng , Chen Yuanquan
Published: March 2022

Nitrogen-based pollution from agriculture has global environmental consequences. Excessive use of chemical nitrogen fertilizer, incorrect manure management and rural waste treatment are key contributors. Circular agriculture combining cropland and livestock is an efficient channel to reduce the use of chemical nitrogen fertilizers, promote the recycling of livestock manure, and reduce the global N surplus. The internal circulation of organic nitrogen resources in the cropland-livestock system can not only reduce the dependence on external synthetic nitrogen, but also reduce the environmental impacts of organic waste disposal. Therefore, this study tried to clarify the reactive nitrogen emissions of the crop-swine integrated system compared to the separated system from a life cycle perspective, and analyze the reasons for the differences in nitrogen footprints of the two systems. The results showed that the integrated crop production and swine production increased the grain yield by 14.38% than that of the separated system. The nitrogen footprints of crop production and swine production from the integrated system were 12.02% (per unit area) and 19.78% lower than that from the separated system, respectively. The total nitrogen footprint of the integrated system showed a reduction of 17.06%. The reduction was from simpler waste manure management and less agricultural inputs for both chemical fertilizer and raw material for forage processing. In conclusion, as a link between crop planting and pig breeding, the integrated system not only reduces the input of chemical fertilizers, but also promotes the utilization of manure, increases crop yield, and decreases environmental pollution. Integrated cropland and livestock is a promising model for agriculture green and sustainable development in China.
Systematic Approach to Mimic Phenolic Natural Polymers for Biofabrication
Authors: Han Hyeju , Lee Kyueui
Published: March 2022

In nature, phenolic biopolymers are utilized as functional tools and molecular crosslinkers to control the mechanical properties of biomaterials. Of particular interest are phenolic proteins/polysaccharides from living organisms, which are rich in catechol and/or gallol groups. Their strong underwater adhesion is attributed to the representative phenolic molecule, catechol, which stimulates intermolecular and intramolecular crosslinking induced by oxidative polymerization. Significant efforts have been made to understand the underlying chemistries, and researchers have developed functional biomaterials by mimicking the systems. Owing to their unique biocompatibility and ability to transform their mechanical properties, phenolic polymers have revolutionized biotechnologies. In this review, we highlight the bottom-up approaches for mimicking polyphenolic materials in nature and recent advances in related biomedical applications. We expect that this review will contribute to the rational design and synthesis of polyphenolic functional biomaterials and facilitate the production of related applications.
Enhancement of Proton Conductivity Performance in High Temperature Polymer Electrolyte Membrane, Processed the Adding of Pyridobismidazole
Authors: Lin Kehua , Wang Chengxiang , Qiu Zhiming , Yan Yurong
Published: March 2022

A pyridobisimidazole unit was introduced into a polymer backbone to obtain an increased doping level, a high number of interacting sites with phosphoric acid and simple processibility. The acid uptake of poly(pyridobisimidazole) (PPI) membrane could reach more than 550% (ADL = 22), resulting in high conductivity (0.23 S·cm−1 at 180 °C). Along with 550% acid uptake, the membrane strength still held 10 MPa, meeting the requirement of Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM). In the Fenton Test, the PPI membrane only lost around 7% weight after 156 h, demonstrating excellent oxidative stability. Besides, PPI possessed thermal stability with decomposition temperature at 570 °C and mechanical stability with a glass transition temperature of 330 °C.
The Whole-Aperture Pore Structure Characteristics and Their Controlling Factors of the Dawuba Formation Shale in Western Guizhou
Authors: Yuan Kun , Huang Wenhui , Chen Xianglin , Cao Qian , Fang Xinxin , Lin Tuo , Jin Chunshuang , Li Shizhen , Wang Chao , Wang Ting
Published: March 2022

Since shale gas mainly occurs in shale pores, research on pore structure characteristics is the key to understanding the shale gas accumulation mechanism. The pore structure of the Lower Carboniferous Dawuba Formation shale in the Qianxi area, represented by the well QSD-1, which obtains a daily shale gas flow of 10,000 m3 and represents an important breakthrough in the investigation of marine shale gas in the Upper Paleozoic region of southern China, is characterized by high-pressure mercury compression experiments and low-temperature gas adsorption (N2 and CO2) experiments with whole pore size. The main controlling factors affecting the pore development of the shale are discussed. (i) The micropores and mesopores are more developed in the shale, and the macropores are the second most developed in the shales of the Dawuba Formation in the Qianxi area, among which the mesopores and macropores contribute most to the pore volume and the micropores and mesopores contribute most to the pore-specific surface area. (ii) The microfractures and interlayer pores of clay minerals are developed in the shales of the Dawuba Formation, which are the main storage spaces for hydrocarbon gases. (iii) The main factors affecting the adsorption capacity of the shales of the Dawuba Formation in the Qianxi area are the organic carbon content and clay mineral content of the shales, both of which have an obvious positive correlation with the variation of pore structure.
Algoritmic Trading System Based on State Model for Moving Average in a Binary-Temporal Representation
Authors: Stasiak Michał Dominik
Published: March 2022

One of the most basic methods of technical analysis that is used in the practice of investment is the analysis of moving averages, usually calculated for exchange rates in a candlestick representation. The following paper proposes a new, state model, describing the process of trajectory changes in a binary-temporal representation. This kind of representation carries a significantly higher informative value than the candlestick one. The model is based on a proper definition of the moving average, proposed for a binary-temporal representation. The new model allows for exchange rate trajectory prediction in a short future window and, as a consequence, can be used to construct effective HFT systems. The article provides a concept of this kind of system and its comparison with others based on historical data for AUD/NZD exchange rate from the 2014–2020 period.
15-Year Analysis of Direct Effects of Total and Dust Aerosols in Solar Radiation/Energy over the Mediterranean Basin
Authors: Papachristopoulou Kyriakoula , Fountoulakis Ilias , Gkikas Antonis , Kosmopoulos Panagiotis G. , Nastos Panagiotis T. , Hatzaki Maria , Kazadzis Stelios
Published: March 2022

The direct radiative effects of atmospheric aerosols are essential for climate, as well as for other societal areas, such as the energy sector. The goal of the present study is to exploit the newly developed ModIs Dust AeroSol (MIDAS) dataset for quantifying the direct effects on the downwelling surface solar irradiance (DSSI), induced by the total and dust aerosol amounts, under clear-sky conditions and the associated impacts on solar energy for the broader Mediterranean Basin, over the period 2003–2017. Aerosol optical depth (AOD) and dust optical depth (DOD) derived by the MIDAS dataset, along with additional aerosol and dust optical properties and atmospheric variables, were used as inputs to radiative transfer modeling to simulate DSSI components. A 15-year climatology of AOD, DOD and clear-sky global horizontal irradiation (GHI) and direct normal irradiation (DNI) was derived. The spatial and temporal variability of the aerosol and dust effects on the different DSSI components was assessed. Aerosol attenuation of annual GHI and DNI were 1–13% and 5–47%, respectively. Over North Africa and the Middle East, attenuation by dust was found to contribute 45–90% to the overall attenuation by aerosols. The GHI and DNI attenuation during extreme dust episodes reached 12% and 44%, respectively, over particular areas. After 2008, attenuation of DSSI by aerosols became weaker mainly because of changes in the amount of dust. Sensitivity analysis using different AOD/DOD inputs from Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service (CAMS) reanalysis dataset revealed that using CAMS products leads to underestimation of the aerosol and dust radiative effects compared to MIDAS, mainly because the former underestimates DOD.
Fluorescent Aptasensor for Highly Specific Detection of ATP Using a Newly Screened Aptamer
Authors: Chen Xin , Feng Yangkun , Chen Haohan , Zhang Yuting , Wang Xiaoli , Zhou Nandi
Published: March 2022

Owing to the significant roles of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) in diverse biological processes, ATP level is used to research and evaluate the physiological processes of organisms. Aptamer-based biosensors have been widely reported to achieve this purpose, which are superior in their flexible biosensing mechanism, with a high sensitivity and good biocompatibility; however, the aptamers currently used for ATP detection have a poor ability to discriminate ATP from adenosine diphosphate (ADP) and adenosine monophosphate (AMP). Herein, an ATP-specific aptamer was screened and applied to construct a fluorescent aptasensor for ATP by using graphene oxide (GO) and strand displacement amplification (SDA). The fluorescence intensity of the sensor is linearly related to the concentration of ATP within 0.1 μM to 25 μM under optimal experimental conditions, and the detection limit is 33.85 nM. The biosensor exhibits a satisfactory specificity for ATP. Moreover, the experimental results indicate that the biosensor can be applied to determine the ATP in human serum. In conclusion, the screened aptamer and the biosensor have promising applications in the determination of the real energy charge level and ATP content in a complex biological system.
Measuring Foot Abduction Brace Wear Time Using a Single 3-Axis Accelerometer
Authors: Griffiths Benjamin , Silver Natan , Granat Malcolm H. , Lebel Ehud
Published: March 2022

The recommended treatment for idiopathic congenital clubfoot deformity involves a series of weekly castings, surgery, and a period of bracing using a foot abduction brace (FAB). Depending on the age of the child, the orthotic should be worn for periods that reduce in duration as the child develops. Compliance is vital to achieve optimal functional outcomes and reduce the likelihood of reoccurrence, deformity, or the need for future surgery. However, compliance is typically monitored by self-reporting, which is time-consuming to implement and lacks accuracy. This study presents a novel method for objectively monitoring FAB wear using a single 3-axis accelerometer. Eleven families mounted an accelerometer on their infant’s FAB for up to seven days. Parents were also given a physical diary that was used to record the daily application and removal of the orthotic in line with their treatment. Both methods produced very similar measurements of wear that visually aligned with the movement measured by the accelerometer. Bland Altman plots showed a −0.55-h bias in the diary measurements and the limits of agreement ranging from −2.96 h to 1.96 h. Furthermore, the Cohens Kappa coefficient for the entire dataset was 0.88, showing a very high level of agreement. The method provides an advantage over existing objective monitoring solutions as it can be easily applied to existing FABs, preventing the need for bespoke monitoring devices. The novel method can facilitate increased research into FAB compliance and help enable FAB monitoring in clinical practice.
Mathematical Criteria for a Priori Performance Estimation of Activities of Daily Living Recognition
Authors: Delaine Florentin , Faraut Gregory
Published: March 2022

Monitoring Activities of Daily Living (ADL) has become a major occupation to respond to the aging population and prevent frailty. To do this, the scientific community is using Machine Learning (ML) techniques to learn the lifestyle habits of people at home. The most-used formalism to represent the behaviour of the inhabitant is the Hidden Markov Model (HMM) or Probabilistic Finite Automata (PFA), where events streams are considered. A common decomposition to design ADL using a mathematical model is Activities–Actions–Events (AAE). In this paper, we propose mathematical criteria to evaluate a priori the performance of these instrumentations for the goals of ADL recognition. We also present a case study to illustrate the use of these criteria.
Experimental Verification of Dielectric Models with a Capacitive Wheatstone Bridge Biosensor for Living Cells: E. coli
Authors: Zarrinkhat Faezeh , Jofre-Roca Luís , Jofre Marc , Rius Juan M. , Romeu Jordi
Published: March 2022

Detection of bioparticles is of great importance in electrophoresis, identification of biomass sources, food and water safety, and other areas. It requires a proper model to describe bioparticles’ electromagnetic characteristics. A numerical study of Escherichia coli bacteria during their functional activity was carried out by using two different geometrical models for the cells that considered the bacteria as layered ellipsoids and layered spheres. It was concluded that during cell duplication, the change in the dielectric permittivity of the cell is high enough to be measured at radio frequencies of the order of 50 kHz. An experimental setup based on the capacitive Wheatstone bridge was designed to measure relative changes in permittivity during cell division. In this way, the theoretical model was validated by measuring the dielectric permittivity changes in a cell culture of Escherichia coli ATTC 8739 from WDCM 00012 Vitroids. The spheroidal model was confirmed to be more accurate.