bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of Leguminous Cover Crops on Soil Chemical and Biological Properties in a No-Till Tropical Fruit Orchard
Authors: Freidenreich Ariel , Dattamudi Sanku , Li Yuncong , Jayachandran Krishnaswamy
Published: June 2022

South Florida’s agricultural soils are traditionally low in organic matter (OM) and high in carbonate rock fragments. These calcareous soils are inherently nutrient-poor and require management for successful crop production. Sunn hemp (SH, Crotalaria juncea) and velvet bean (VB, Mucuna pruriens) are highly productive leguminous cover crops (CCs) that have shown potential to add large quantities of dry biomass to nutrient- and organic-matter-limited systems. This study focuses on intercropping these two CCs with young carambola (Averrhoa carambola) trees. The objective was to test the effectiveness of green manure crops in providing nutrients and supplementing traditional fertilizer regimes with a sustainable soil-building option. Typically, poultry manure (PM) is the standard fertilizer used in organic or sustainable production in the study area. As such, PM treatments and fallow were included for comparison. The treatments were fallow control (F), fallow with PM (FM), sunn hemp (SH), SH with PM (SHM), velvet bean (VB), and VB with PM (VBM). Sunn hemp and VB were grown for two summer growing seasons. At the end of each 90-day growing period, the CCs were terminated and left on the soil surface to decompose in a no-till fashion. The results suggest that SH treatments produced the greatest amount of dry biomass material ranging from 48 to 71% higher than VB over two growing seasons. As a result, SH CCs also accumulated significantly higher amounts of total carbon (TC) and total nitrogen (TN) within their dry biomass that was added to the soil. Sunn hemp, SHM, and FM treatments showed the greatest accumulation of soil OM, TC, and TN. Soil inorganic N (NH₄⁺ + NO3− + NO2) fluctuated throughout the experiment. Our results indicate that generally, VB-treated soils had their highest available N around 2 months post termination, while SH-treated soils exhibited significantly higher N values at CC termination time. Sunn hemp + PM (SHM)treatments had highest soil N availability around 4 months after CC termination. Soil enzyme activity results indicate that at CC termination, SHM exhibited the highest levels of β-1-4- glucosidase and β-N-acetylglucosaminidase among all treatments. Overall, SH, SHM, and FM treatments showed the greatest potential for supplementing soil nutrients and organic matter in a no-till fruit production setting.
Temporomandibular Joint Disk Displacements in Class II Malocclusion and Cervical Spine Alterations: Systematic Review and Report of a Hypodivergent Case with MRI Bone and Soft Tissue Changes
Authors: Almășan Oana , Kui Andreea , Duncea Ioana , Manea Avram , Buduru Smaranda
Published: June 2022

(1) Background: This study aimed to perform a literature review related to disk displacement (DD) in class II malocclusion or cervical vertebrae position alterations and to report a hypodivergent case with cervical pain and right anterolateral DD with reduction, left anterolateral DD with reduction, and left joint effusion. (2) Methods: A structured electronic search was conducted between March 2022 and April 2022, without time limits, following PRISMA guidelines, in the following databases: PubMed, Scopus, Embase and Cochrane; the terms “disc displacement”, “disk displacement”, “temporomandibular joint”, “class II malocclusion” and “cervical vertebrae” are searched. (3) Results: the following thirteen publications are included in this review: two prospective studies and eleven cross-sectional studies; for evaluating disk position, eight included publications used magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), whilst six studies used lateral cephalogram to determine craniofacial morphology and relationships between the cranial base, vertical skeletal pattern, maxilla and mandible. (4) Conclusions: although the literature still shows contradictory opinions, a relationship between temporomandibular disorders and cervical posture has been shown in the presented case as well as in the literature review.
Healthcare Professionals’ Experience of Performing Digital Care Visits—A Scoping Review
Authors: Lampickienė Ieva , Davoody Nadia
Published: June 2022

The use of digital care visits has been increasing during the COVID-19 pandemic. Learning more about healthcare professionals’ technology experiences provides valuable insight and a basis for improving digital visits. This study aimed to explore the existing literature on healthcare professionals’ experience performing digital care visits. A scoping review was performed following Arksey & O’Malley’s proposed framework using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses. The collected data were analyzed using thematic content analysis. Five main themes were identified in the literature: positive experiences/benefits, facilitators, negative experiences/challenges, barriers, and suggestions for improvement. Healthcare professionals mostly reported having an overall positive experience with digital visits and discovered benefits for themselves and the patients. However, opinions were mixed or negative regarding the complexity of decision making, workload and workflow, suitability of this type of care, and other challenges. The suggestions for improvement included training and education, improvements within the system and tools, along with support for professionals. Despite overall positive experiences and benefits for both professionals and patients, clinicians reported challenges such as physical barriers, technical issues, suitability concerns, and others. Digital care visits could not fully replace face-to-face visits.
Unbalance Response Analysis of a Spindle Supported on Gas Bearings: A Comparison between Different Approaches
Authors: Colombo Federico , Lentini Luigi , Raparelli Terenziano , Trivella Andrea , Viktorov Vladimir
Published: June 2022

Gas journal bearings are widely employed in high-speed spindles for the micromachining industry. Compared to their oil and rolling counterparts, gas bearings have a longer life span, lower friction and a lower level of noise. In order to design accurate high-speed spindles supported by externally pressurized gas bearings, it is vital to analyze the characteristics of rotor bearing systems. In this paper, we present an analysis of the unbalance response of a high-speed spindle supported by gas journal bearings. A number of aspects to enhance the accuracy of the system are discussed. We performed the analysis by considering a nonlinear and a linearized numerical model validated through experimental measurements.
Methyltrioctylammonium Octadecanoate as Lubricant Additive to Different Base Oils
Authors: Faes Javier , González Rubén , Blanco David , Fernández-González Alfonso , Hernández-Battez Antolin , Iglesias Patricia , Viesca José Luis
Published: June 2022

This study investigates the use of an ionic liquid obtained from fatty acids (FAIL) as an additive at 2 wt.% in two different base oils: a mineral oil (M1) and a polyol ester (E1). Physicochemical characterization of the base oil–FAIL blends confirmed the miscibility of the FAIL in the base oils. The addition of the FAIL hardly changed the density of the base oils and the viscosity slightly increased at lower temperatures. The tribological performance of the base oils and their blends with the FAIL was determined using three different tests: Stribeck curve determination and tribofilm formation tests, both under sliding/rolling motion, and reciprocating wear tests. The M1 + FAIL blend showed the lowest friction values under the mixed lubrication regime due to its higher viscosity, while the E1 + FAIL showed the lowest friction values under the elastohydrodynamic lubrication regime, which may well have been due to its higher polarity. Only the E1 + FAIL blend outperformed the antiwear behavior of the base oil, probably because it has better chemical affinity (higher polarity) for the metallic surface. SEM images showed that the predominant wear mechanism was adhesive-type with plastic deformation and XPS studies proved that the presence of increasing amounts of organic oxygen on the wear scar caused better antiwear performance when the E1 + FAIL blend was used.
Strategies for Controlling or Releasing the Influence Due to the Volume Expansion of Silicon inside Si−C Composite Anode for High-Performance Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhang Xian , Weng Jingzheng , Ye Chengxi , Liu Mengru , Wang Chenyu , Wu Shuru , Tong Qingsong , Zhu Mengqi , Gao Feng
Published: June 2022

Currently, silicon is considered among the foremost promising anode materials, due to its high capacity, abundant reserves, environmental friendliness, and low working potential. However, the huge volume changes in silicon anode materials can pulverize the material particles and result in the shedding of active materials and the continual rupturing of the solid electrolyte interface film, leading to a short cycle life and rapid capacity decay. Therefore, the practical application of silicon anode materials is hindered. However, carbon recombination may remedy this defect. In silicon/carbon composite anode materials, silicon provides ultra-high capacity, and carbon is used as a buffer, to relieve the volume expansion of silicon; thus, increasing the use of silicon-based anode materials. To ensure the future utilization of silicon as an anode material in lithium-ion batteries, this review considers the dampening effect on the volume expansion of silicon particles by the formation of carbon layers, cavities, and chemical bonds. Silicon-carbon composites are classified herein as coated core-shell structure, hollow core-shell structure, porous structure, and embedded structure. The above structures can adequately accommodate the Si volume expansion, buffer the mechanical stress, and ameliorate the interface/surface stability, with the potential for performance enhancement. Finally, a perspective on future studies on Si−C anodes is suggested. In the future, the rational design of high-capacity Si−C anodes for better lithium-ion batteries will narrow the gap between theoretical research and practical applications.
Microbiologically Induced Concrete Corrosion: A Concise Review of Assessment Methods, Effects, and Corrosion-Resistant Coating Materials
Authors: Chaudhari Bhavesh , Panda Biranchi , Šavija Branko , Chandra Paul Suvash
Published: June 2022

Microbiologically induced concrete corrosion (in wastewater pipes) occurs mainly because of the diffusion of aggressive solutions and in situ production of sulfuric acid by microorganisms. The prevention of concrete biocorrosion usually requires modification of the mix design or the application of corrosion-resistant coatings, which requires a fundamental understanding of the corrosion process. In this regard, a state-of-the-art review on the subject is presented in this paper, which firstly details the mechanism of microbial deterioration, followed by assessment methods to characterize biocorrosion and its effects on concrete properties. Different types of corrosion-resistant coatings are also reviewed to prevent biocorrosion in concrete sewer and waste-water pipes. At the end, concluding remarks, research gaps, and future needs are discussed, which will help to overcome the challenges and possible environmental risks associated with biocorrosion.
Thermal Hazard Evaluation of Tert-Butyl Peroxy-3,5,5-trimethylhexanoate (TBPTMH) Mixed with Acid-Alkali
Authors: Xia Li , Ni Lei , Pan Yong , Zhang Xin , Ni Yuqing
Published: June 2022

Tert-butyl peroxy-3,5,5-trimethylhexanoate (TBPTMH), a liquid ester organic peroxide, is commonly used as an initiator for polymerization reactions. During the production process, TBPTMH may be exposed to acids and alkali, which may have different effects on its thermal hazard, so it is necessary to carry out a study on the thermal hazard of TBPTMH mixed with acids and alkali. In this paper, the effects of H2SO4 and NaOH on the thermal decomposition of TBPTMH were investigated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and adiabatic calorimetry (Phi-TEC II). The “kinetic triple factors” were calculated by thermodynamic analysis. The results show that the three Ea are 132.49, 116.36, and 118.24 kJ/mol, respectively; thus, the addition of H2SO4 and NaOH increased the thermal hazard of TBPTMH. In addition, the characteristic parameters (time to maximum rate under adiabatic conditions, self-accelerated decomposition temperature) of its thermal decomposition were determined, and the control temperature (45, 40, and 40 °C) of TBPTMH under the action of acid-alkali were further received. This work is expected to provide some guidance for the safe storage, handling, production, and transportation of TBPTMH in the process industry.
Fabrication of Large-Area Mullite–Cordierite Composite Substrates for Semiconductor Probe Cards and Enhancement of Their Reliability
Authors: Hyun Da-Eun , Jeon Jwa-Bin , Lee Yeon-Sook , Kim Yong-Nam , Kim Minkyung , Ko Seunghoon , Koo Sang-Mo , Shin Weon Ho , Park Chulhwan , Lee Dong-Won , Oh Jong-Min
Published: June 2022

This work aims to fabricate a large-area ceramic substrate for the application of probe cards. Mullite (M) and cordierite (C), which both have a low thermal expansion coefficient, excellent resistance to thermal shock, and high durability, were selected as starting powders. The mullite–cordierite composites were produced through different composition ratios of starting powders (M:C = 100:0, M:C = 90:10, M:C = 70:30, M:C = 50:50, M:C = 30:70, and M:C = 0:100). The effects of composition ratio and sintering temperature on the density, porosity, thermal expansion coefficient, and flexural strength of the mullite–cordierite composite pellets were investigated. The results showed that the mullite–cordierite composite pellet containing 70 wt% mullite and 30 wt% cordierite sintered at 1350 °C performed exceptionally well. Based on these findings, a large-area mullite–cordierite composite substrate with a diameter of 320 mm for use in semiconductor probe cards was successfully fabricated. Additionally, the changes in sheet resistance and flexural strength were measured to determine the effect of the environmental tests on the large-area substrate such as damp heat and thermal shock. The results indicated that the mullite–cordierite composite substrate was extremely reliable and durable.
Demonstration of Use of a Novel 3D Printed Simulator for Mitral Valve Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair (TEER)
Authors: Bertolini Michele , Mullen Michael , Belitsis Georgios , Babu Angel , Colombo Giorgio , Cook Andrew , Mullen Aigerim , Capelli Claudio
Published: June 2022

Mitral regurgitation is a common valvular disorder. Transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (TEER) is a minimally invasive technique which involves holding together the middle segments of the mitral valve leaflets, thereby reducing regurgitation. To date, MitraClip™ is the only Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved device for TEER. The MitraClip procedure is technically challenging, characterised by a steep learning curve. Training is generally performed on simplified models, which do not emphasise anatomical features, realistic materials, or procedural scenarios. The aim of this study is to propose a novel, 3D printed simulator, with a major focus on reproducing the anatomy and plasticity of all areas of the heart involved and specifically the ones of the mitral valve apparatus. A three-dimensional digital model of a heart was generated by segmenting computed tomography (CT). The model was subsequently modified for: (i) adding anatomical features not fully visible with CT; (ii) adapting the model to interact with the MitraClip procedural equipment; and (iii) ensuring modularity of the system. The model was manufactured with a Polyjet technology printer, with a differentiated material assignment among its portions. Polypropylene threads were stitched to replicate chordae tendineae. The proposed system was successfully tested with MitraClip equipment. The simulator was assessed to be feasible to practice in a realistic fashion, different procedural aspects including access, navigation, catheter steering, and leaflets grasping. In addition, the model was found to be compatible with clinical procedural imaging fluoroscopy equipment. Future studies will assess the effect of the proposed training system on improving TEER training.
Mixed Lubrication Modeling of Multi-Lip Reciprocating Seals Based on Elastohydrodynamic Lubrication Theory
Authors: Cheng Donghong , Gu Lichen , Sun Yu
Published: June 2022

Multi-lip reciprocating seals are extensively used in the subject of engineering equipment. However, the current research on the tribology of reciprocating seals mainly focused focuses on the numerical analysis of single-lip seals. In order to study the sealing performance of multi-lip seals, this paper takes double-acting seal (DAS) as the research object, and establishes a multi-lip mixed elastohydrodynamic lubrication (M-EHL) numerical simulation model from the perspective of solid mechanics, fluid mechanics, contact mechanics, and deformation mechanics. The sealing characteristics under different working conditions (sealed pressure, piston rod extension speed, and seal surface roughness) were analyzed by numerical calculation, and the variation trend of friction force corresponding to the experimental results was obtained. The model can provide a modeling guidance basis for the M-EHL characteristic analysis and structural optimization design of multi-lip reciprocating seals in the mechanical field.
Increasing Safety in Ultralight Aviation with a Wankel-Based Series/Parallel Hybrid Electric Power System
Authors: Donateo Teresa , Cavalera Davide
Published: June 2022

The goal of this investigation is to propose a series/parallel hybrid electric power system for ultralight aviation designed to improve safety and, possibly, reduce fuel consumption. The power system consists of a Wankel engine, two electric machines, a battery, and a planetary gear set, all acquired from the automotive market. After a preliminary design based on takeoff power, the system is simulated over a typical flight mission and in case of engine failure for a first validation of the proposed powertrain. The investigation also shows a comparison in terms of performance and fuel consumption between the initial configuration (reciprocating piston engine), a non-hybrid Wankel arrangement, and the proposed hybrid electric configurations by using in-house simulation software. A heuristic energy management strategy is proposed as well. During a typical mission, the new powertrain works as a parallel hybrid during takeoff and climb, thus ensuring high performance and safety. During the cruise, the system behaves like a parallel hybrid with a continuously variable transmission that makes the engine work always at high efficiency. The battery is partially recharged during the descent by the extra power of the engine. The preliminary results reported in this work predict an improvement in fuel consumption by about 20% compared with the initial piston engine configuration and 28% compare with the non-hybrid Wankel powertrain, despite the larger takeoff weight.
Kinetics of Domain Structure in Co/Pt/Co Ultrathin Films with Ferromagnetic Interlayer Exchange Interaction: Dependence on Interlayer Thickness
Authors: Shashkov Ivan , Kabanov Yuri , Tikhomirov Oleg , Gornakov Vladimir
Published: June 2022

We studied the in-field evolution of the domain structure in ultrathin Co(0.6 nm)/Pt(t)/Co(0.6) nm trilayers with perpendicular magnetic anisotropy for 5 nm < t < 6 nm using polar Kerr microscopy. The critical interlayer thickness tcr = 5.3 nm was found to separate two principal patterns of domain behavior including interlayer correlations and motility of the domain walls. It is shown that magnetization in both Co layers is coupled with strong ferromagnetic interaction for small Pt thickness (t < tcr), while this coupling is weak for thicker (t > tcr) Pt layers. Nonlinear dependence of the wall displacement on the field value is observed. The established final position of domain walls after relaxation depends on the Pt layer thickness. It is determined by balance of the interlayer exchange and energy gain due to the field. The mechanism of wall stabilization is considered in the case of independent wall motion. In the region with weak coupling, dependence of the interlayer interaction energy on Pt thickness was measured.
On Caputo–Katugampola Fractional Stochastic Differential Equation
Authors: Omaba McSylvester Ejighikeme , Sulaimani Hamdan Al
Published: June 2022

We consider the following stochastic fractional differential equation CD0+α,ρφ(t)=κϑ(t,φ(t))w˙(t), 0<t≤T, where φ(0)=φ0 is the initial function, CD0+α,ρ is the Caputo–Katugampola fractional differential operator of orders 0<α≤1,ρ>0, the function ϑ:[0,T]×R→R is Lipschitz continuous on the second variable, w˙(t) denotes the generalized derivative of the Wiener process w(t) and κ>0 represents the noise level. The main result of the paper focuses on the energy growth bound and the asymptotic behaviour of the random solution. Furthermore, we employ Banach fixed point theorem to establish the existence and uniqueness result of the mild solution.
Some Categorical Properties of Linear Systems
Authors: Carriegos Miguel
Published: June 2022

Linear control systems are studied by means of a state-space approach. Feedback morphisms are presented as natural generalization of feedback equivalences. The set of feedback morphisms between two linear systems is a vector space. Kernels, cokernels, as well as monomorphisms, epimorphisms, sections, and retracts of feedback morphisms are studied in the category of linear systems over finite dimensional vector spaces. Finally, a classical Kalman’s decomposition of linear systems over vector spaces is presented as a split short exact sequence in the category.
Sequential Fractional Hybrid Inclusions: A Theoretical Study via Dhage’s Technique and Special Contractions
Authors: Etemad Sina , Ntouyas Sotiris K. , Ahmad Bashir , Rezapour Shahram , Tariboon Jessada
Published: June 2022

The most important objective of the present research is to establish some theoretical existence results on a novel combined configuration of a Caputo sequential inclusion problem and the hybrid integro-differential one in which the boundary conditions are also formulated as the hybrid multi-order integro-differential conditions. In this respect, firstly, some inequalities are proven in relation to the corresponding integral equation. Then, we employ some newly defined theoretical techniques with the help of the product operators on a Banach algebra and also with the aid of some special functions including α-ψ-contractions and α-admissible mappings to extract the existence criteria corresponding to the given mixed sequential hybrid BVPs. Some important useful properties such as the approximate endpoint property, (Cα)-property, and the compactness play a key role in this regard. The final part of the manuscript is devoted to formulating and computing two applicable examples to guarantee the correctness of the obtained results.
Multi-Scale Tumor Localization Based on Priori Guidance-Based Segmentation Method for Osteosarcoma MRI Images
Authors: Lv Baolong , Liu Feng , Gou Fangfang , Wu Jia
Published: June 2022

Osteosarcoma is a malignant osteosarcoma that is extremely harmful to human health. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technology is one of the commonly used methods for the imaging examination of osteosarcoma. Due to the large amount of osteosarcoma MRI image data and the complexity of detection, manual identification of osteosarcoma in MRI images is a time-consuming and labor-intensive task for doctors, and it is highly subjective, which can easily lead to missed and misdiagnosed problems. AI medical image-assisted diagnosis alleviates this problem. However, the brightness of MRI images and the multi-scale of osteosarcoma make existing studies still face great challenges in the identification of tumor boundaries. Based on this, this study proposed a prior guidance-based assisted segmentation method for MRI images of osteosarcoma, which is based on the few-shot technique for tumor segmentation and fine fitting. It not only solves the problem of multi-scale tumor localization, but also greatly improves the recognition accuracy of tumor boundaries. First, we preprocessed the MRI images using prior generation and normalization algorithms to reduce model performance degradation caused by irrelevant regions and high-level features. Then, we used a prior-guided feature abdominal muscle network to perform small-sample segmentation of tumors of different sizes based on features in the processed MRI images. Finally, using more than 80,000 MRI images from the Second Xiangya Hospital for experiments, the DOU value of the method proposed in this paper reached 0.945, which is at least 4.3% higher than other models in the experiment. We showed that our method specifically has higher prediction accuracy and lower resource consumption.
Quantifying the Natural Variation of ‘Data Signatures’ from Aerosols Using Statistical Control Bands
Authors: Young Timothy M. , Sobek Edward , Farahi Faramarz
Published: June 2022

The natural variation of the data signatures of airborne aerosols from calibrated cigarette particles were quantified using enhanced Bonferroni methods. The significance of the problem of improving analytical methods for understanding the natural variation of airborne particles cannot be understated given the positive impact for mitigating harmful airborne particles. The data presented in this paper were obtained using experiments to examine the effect of a carbon-brush-based bipolar ionization on filtration efficiency of a MERV 10 filter in a recirculating HVAC system. Ionization technology is deployed throughout the world as a multilayered approach with filtration for improving indoor air quality. Despite its wide use, ionization is still considered an emerging technology due to a dearth of peer-reviewed literature. Poorly designed test protocols and a lack of robust statistical methods for analyzing experimental data are the primary reasons. Presented herein is a statistical groundwork for analyzing ionization-efficacy data from highly controlled and properly designed particulate-matter test trials. Results are presented for three experimental groups where bipolar ionization was used to study the behaviors of data signatures from cigarette-smoke aerosol particles ranging in size from 49.6 to 201.7 nm. Statistical control bands of the data from these experimental groups revealed that bipolar ionization had significant changes to the pdfs and reductions in the natural variation of the data signatures for the particle count (number of particles) across all particle sizes. Statistical control bands may provide enhanced quantitative knowledge of variation and provide expanded inference that goes beyond examination of percentiles only. The implications from this research are profound, as it lays the groundwork for the development of highly effective ionization-filtration layered strategies to mitigate the hazards of airborne particulates and is the first step towards creating robust efficacy test standards for the industry.
Cesàro Means of Weighted Orthogonal Expansions on Regular Domains
Authors: Feng Han , Ge Yan
Published: June 2022

In this paper, we investigate Cesàro means for the weighted orthogonal polynomial expansions on spheres with weights being invariant under a general finite reflection group on Rd. Our theorems extend previous results only for specific reflection groups. Precisely, we consider the weight function hκ(x):=∏ν∈R+|x,ν|κν,x∈Rd on the unit sphere; the upper estimates of the Cesàro kernels and Cesàro means are obtained and used to prove the convergence of the Cesàro (C,δ) means in the weighted Lp space for δ above the corresponding index. We also establish similar results for the corresponding estimates on the unit ball and the simplex.
A Note on Bell-Based Apostol-Type Frobenius-Euler Polynomials of Complex Variable with Its Certain Applications
Authors: Alam Noor , Khan Waseem Ahmad , Ryoo Cheon Seoung
Published: June 2022

In this paper, we introduce new class of Bell-based Apostol-type Frobenius–Euler polynomials and investigate some properties of these polynomials. We derive some explicit and implicit summation formulas and their symmetric identities by using different analytical means and applying generating functions of generalized Apostol-type Frobenius-Euler polynomials and Bell-based Apostol-type Frobenius-Euler polynomials. In particular, parametric kinds of the Bell-based Apostol-type Frobenius-Euler polynomials are introduced and some of their algebraic and analytical properties are established. In addition, illustrative examples of these families of polynomials are shown, focusing on their numerical values and piloting some beautiful computer-aided graphs of them.
A New Bilinear Supervised Neighborhood Discrete Discriminant Hashing
Authors: Chen Xueyu , Wan Minghua , Zheng Hao , Xu Chao , Sun Chengli , Fan Zizhu
Published: June 2022

Feature extraction is an important part of perceptual hashing. How to compress the robust features of images into hash codes has become a hot research topic. Converting a two-dimensional image into a one-dimensional descriptor requires a higher computational cost and is not optimal. In order to maintain the internal feature structure of the original two-dimensional image, a new Bilinear Supervised Neighborhood Discrete Discriminant Hashing (BNDDH) algorithm is proposed in this paper. Firstly, the algorithm constructs two new neighborhood graphs to maintain the geometric relationship between samples and reduces the quantization loss by directly constraining the hash codes. Secondly, two small rotation matrices are used to realize the bilinear projection of the two-dimensional descriptor. Finally, the experiment verifies the performance of the BNDDH algorithm under different feature types, such as image original pixels and a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN)-based AlexConv5 feature. The experimental results and discussion clearly show that the proposed BNDDH algorithm is better than the existing traditional hashing algorithm and can represent the image more efficiently in this paper.
Numerical Investigation of the Double Diffusive Convection in 3D Trapezoidal Solar Still Equipped with Conductive Fins
Authors: Kolsi Lioua , Ghachem Kaouther , Larguech Samia , AlNemer Ghada
Published: June 2022

In this paper a numerical investigation on the double diffusive natural convection in a finned solar still is performed using the finite volume method. The 3D vector potential-vorticity formalism is used to eliminate the gradient pressure terms and due to the complex shape of the cavity the blocked-off-region method is adopted. After getting the dimensionless governing equations, they are written in a generalised form then discretised. The effects of the buoyancy ratio, conductivity ratio and Rayleigh number of the flow structure, temperature field and heat and mass transfer are studied. The results show that the increase of conductivity ratio and Rayleigh number leads to an enhancement of the heat and mass transfer.
A Refined Closed-Form Solution for the Large Deflections of Alekseev-Type Annular Membranes Subjected to Uniformly Distributed Transverse Loads: Simultaneous Improvement of Out-of-Plane Equilibrium Equation and Geometric Equation
Authors: Li Bo , Zhang Qi , Li Xue , He Xiao-Ting , Sun Jun-Yi
Published: June 2022

The Alekseev-type annular membranes here refer to annular membranes fixed at outer edges and connected with a movable, weightless, stiff, con-centric, circular thin plate at inner edges, which were proposed originally by Alekseev for bearing centrally concentrated loads. They are used to bear the pressure acting on both membranes and plates, which was proposed originally in our previous work for developing pressure sensors. The pressure is applied onto an Alekseev-type annular membrane, resulting in the parallel movement of the circular thin plate. Such a movement can be used to develop a capacitive pressure sensor using the circular thin plate as a movable electrode plate of a parallel plate capacitor. The pressure applied can be determined by measuring the change in capacitance of the parallel plate capacitor, based on the closed-form solution for the elastic behavior of Alekseev-type annular membranes. However, the previous closed-form solution is unsuitable for annular membranes with too large deflection, which limits the range of pressure operation of the developed sensors. A new and more refined closed-form solution is presented here by improving simultaneously the out-of-plane equilibrium equation and geometric equation, making it possible to develop capacitive pressure sensors with a wide range of pressure operations. The new closed-form solution is numerically discussed in its convergence and effectiveness and compared with the previous one. Additionally, its beneficial effect on developing the proposed capacitive pressure sensors is illustrated.
In Silico Virtual Screening of Marine Aldehyde Derivatives from Seaweeds against SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Kang Nalae , Heo Seong-Yeong , Cha Seon-Heui , Ahn Ginnae , Heo Soo-Jin
Published: June 2022

Coronavirus disease 2019, caused by the outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is an ongoing global pandemic that poses an unprecedented threat to the global economy and human health. Several potent inhibitors targeting SARS-CoV-2 have been published; however, most of them have failed in clinical trials. This study aimed to assess the therapeutic compounds among aldehyde derivatives from seaweeds as potential SARS-CoV-2 inhibitors using a computer simulation protocol. The absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADME/Tox) properties of the compounds were analyzed using a machine learning algorithm, and the docking simulation of these compounds to the 3C-like protease (Protein Data Bank (PDB) ID: 6LU7) was analyzed using a molecular docking protocol based on the CHARMm algorithm. These compounds exhibited good drug-like properties following the Lipinski and Veber rules. Among the marine aldehyde derivatives, 4-hydroxybenzaldehyde, 3-hydroxybenzaldehyde, 3,4-dihydroxybenzaldehyde, and 5-bromoprotocatechualdehyde were predicted to have good absorption and solubility levels and non-hepatotoxicity in the ADME/Tox prediction. 3-hydroxybenzaldehyde and 3,4-dihydroxybenzaldehyde were predicted to be non-toxic in TOPKAT prediction. In addition, 3,4-dihydroxybenzaldehyde was predicted to exhibit interactions with the 3C-like protease, with binding energies of −71.9725 kcal/mol. The computational analyses indicated that 3,4-dihydroxybenzaldehyde could be regarded as potential a SARS-CoV-2 inhibitor.
Taeanamides A and B, Nonribosomal Lipo-Decapeptides Isolated from an Intertidal-Mudflat-Derived Streptomyces sp.
Authors: Cui Jinsheng , Kim Eunji , Moon Dong Hyun , Kim Tae Ho , Kang Ilnam , Lim Yeonjung , Shin Daniel , Hwang Sunghoon , Du Young Eun , Song Myoung Chong , Bae Munhyung , Cho Jang-Cheon , Jang Jichan , Lee Sang Kook , Yoon Yeo Joon , Oh Dong-Chan
Published: June 2022

Two new lipo-decapeptides, namely taeanamides A and B (1 and 2), were discovered from the Gram-positive bacterium Streptomyces sp. AMD43, which was isolated from a mudflat sample from Anmyeondo, Korea. The exact molecular masses of 1 and 2 were revealed by high-resolution mass spectrometry, and the planar structures of 1 and 2 were elucidated using NMR spectroscopy. The absolute configurations of 1 and 2 were determined using a combined analysis of 1H-1H coupling constants and ROESY correlations, the advanced Marfey’s method, and bioinformatics. The putative nonribosomal peptide synthetase pathway for the taeanamides was identified by analyzing the full genome sequence data of Streptomyces sp. AMD43. We also found that taeanamide A exhibited mild anti-tuberculosis bioactivity, whereas taeanamide B showed significant bioactivity against several cancer cell lines.
Botulinum Toxin Use for Modulating Neuroimmune Cutaneous Activity in Psoriasis
Authors: Popescu Marius Nicolae , Beiu Cristina , Iliescu Mădălina Gabriela , Mihai Mara Mădălina , Popa Liliana Gabriela , Stănescu Ana Maria Alexandra , Berteanu Mihai
Published: June 2022

Psoriasis is a complex immune-mediated inflammatory disorder that generates enormous interest within the scientific communities worldwide, with new therapeutic targets being constantly identified and tested. Despite the numerous topical and systemic medications available for the treatment of psoriasis, alternative therapies are still needed for the optimal management of some patients who present with localized, resistant lesions. Novel insights into the contribution of cutaneous neurogenic inflammation in the pathogenesis of psoriasis have yielded exciting new potential roles of nerve-targeting treatments, namely botulinum toxin type A (BoNT-A), for the management of this disease. This paper aims to review the existing literature on knowledge regarding the potential role of BoNT-A in psoriasis treatment, with a focus on its ability to interfere with the immunopathogenetic aspects of psoriatic disease. Furthermore, in our paper, we are also including the first report of psoriatic lesions remission following local BoNT-A injections that were administered for treating upper limb spasticity, in a patient that concomitantly suffered from psoriasis and post-stroke spasticity.
Short-Term Treatment with Empagliflozin Resulted in Dehydration and Cardiac Arrest in an Elderly Patient with Specific Complications: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Supakul Sopak , Nishikawa Yurika , Teramura Masanori , Takase Tetsuro
Published: June 2022

Empagliflozin is a sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitor widely used in the treatment of diabetes mellitus and heart failure. Our case study involved a 68-year-old patient who was admitted to the hospital because of a cerebral infarction. The patient was simultaneously diagnosed with diabetes mellitus and heart failure, for which empagliflozin was initiated. However, food and fluid intake were reduced due to poor appetite. In addition to the side effects of empagliflozin, the patient developed severe dehydration and cardiac arrest. Careful assessment of dehydration and preventive water intake is recommended in elderly patients and those with neurological deficits, especially when receiving empagliflozin.
Current and Future Approaches in Management of Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria Using Anti-IgE Antibodies
Authors: Orzan Olguța Anca , Popa Liliana Gabriela , Mihai Mara Mădălina , Cojocaru Anca , Giurcăneanu Călin , Dorobanțu Alexandra Maria
Published: June 2022

Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) considerably alters patients’ quality of life, often for extended periods, due to pruriginous skin lesions, impaired sleep, unexpected development of angioedema, and failure of conventional treatments in properly controlling signs and symptoms. Recent research focused on the development of new therapeutic agents with higher efficacy. Although the production of specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies against certain allergens is not a characteristic of the disease, treatment with omalizumab, a monoclonal anti-IgE antibody, proved efficient and safe in patients with moderate to severe chronic spontaneous urticaria uncontrolled by H1-antihistamines. Ligelizumab, a high-affinity monoclonal anti-IgE antibody, may also efficiently relieve symptoms of unresponsive chronic urticaria to standard therapies. This comprehensive review aims to present recently acquired knowledge on managing chronic spontaneous urticaria with new anti-IgE antibodies. We conducted extensive research on the main databases (PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Science) with no restrictions on the years covered, using the search terms “anti-IgE antibodies”, “omalizumab”, “ligelizumab”, and “chronic spontaneous urticaria”. The inclusion criteria were English written articles, and the exclusion criteria were animal-related studies. ClinicalTrials.gov was also reviewed for recent relevant clinical trials related to CSU treatment. CSU is a challenging disease with a significant effect on patients’ quality of life. Current therapies often fail to control signs and symptoms, and additional treatment is needed. New biologic therapies against IgE antibodies and FcεRIα receptors are currently under investigation in advanced clinical trials. We reviewed recently published data on CSU management using these novel treatments. The development of new and improved treatments for CSU will lead to a more personalized therapeutical approach for patients and provide guidance for physicians in better understanding disease mechanisms. However, some agents are still in clinical trials, and more research is needed to establish the safety and efficacy of these treatments.
The Epidemiology of Entamoeba histolytica Infection and Its Associated Risk Factors among Domestic and Imported Patients in Taiwan during the 2011–2020 Period
Authors: Lin Fu-Huang , Chen Bao-Chung , Chou Yu-Ching , Chien Wu-Chien , Chung Chi-Hsiang , Hsieh Chi-Jeng , Yu Chia-Peng
Published: June 2022

Background and Objectives: Amebiasis remains an important public health problem worldwide, and immigration and increased international travel have affected incident disease cases. This study assesses the prevalence of Entamoeba histolytica in Taiwan between 2011 and 2020 by analyzing data from surveillance programs conducted by the Centers for Disease Control of Taiwan (TCDC) on laboratory-confirmed cases. Materials and Methods: The E. histolytica infection-related data reported to the National Infectious Diseases Statistics System at the TCDC from 1 January 2011 to 31 December 2020 were collected, including age, gender, place of residence, and the geographic season of exposure for each case. Results: In total, 3066 cases with E. histolytica infections were included in our analysis. Among them, 1735 (57%) cases were imported, and 1331 (43%) were locally acquired. The average annual incidence rate of E. histolytica infections in Taiwan between 2011 and 2020 was 10.6 and 16.1 per 1,000,000 patients. There were statistical differences in gender, age group, and place of residence (p < 0.001) by the source distribution of cases. Also, these differences were found every year (p < 0.05). There were statistical differences in gender and age group (p < 0.001) by place of residence (p < 0.001). The only difference between the distribution of cases and age group was in gender (p < 0.001). Eight patients with amebiasis died, and the fatality rate was 0.3% (8/3066), of whom 75% (6/8) were male, and 75% (6/8) were over 45 years old. This study demonstrates that multiple linear regression analysis shows positive associations between NO2 concentration and amebiasis cases (B value = 2.569, p = 0.019), O3 concentration and amebiasis cases (B value = 0.294, p = 0.008), and temperature and amebiasis cases (B value = 1.096, p = 0.046). Conclusions: This study is the first report of confirmed E. histolytica cases from TCDC surveillance data between 2011 and 2020. This study showed the importance of long periods, air pollutants, and geographically comprehensive analysis for estimating the effect of amebiasis transmission in Taiwan’s populations.
Decreasing Significance of Early Allograft Dysfunction with Rising Use of Nonconventional Donors
Authors: Ohara Stephanie , Macdonough Elizabeth , Egbert Lena , Brooks Abigail , Lizaola-Mayo Blanca , Mathur Amit K. , Aqel Bashar , Reddy Kunam S. , Jadlowiec Caroline C.
Published: June 2022

Background and Objectives: Early allograft dysfunction (EAD) is considered a surrogate marker for adverse post-liver transplant (LT) outcomes. With the increasing use of nonconventional donors, EAD has become a more frequent occurrence. Given this background, we aimed to assess the prevalence and impact of EAD in an updated cohort inclusive of both conventional and nonconventional liver allografts. Materials and Methods: Perioperative and one-year outcomes were assessed for a total of 611 LT recipients with and without EAD from Mayo Clinic Arizona. EAD was defined as the presence of one or more of the following: bilirubin > 10 mg/dL on day 7, INR > 1.6 on day 7, or ALT and/or AST > 2000 IU/L within the first 7 days of LT. Results: Within this cohort, 31.8% of grafts (n = 194) came from donation after circulatory death (DCD) donors, 17.7% (n = 108) were nationally shared, 16.4% (n = 100) were allocated as post-cross clamp, and 8.7% contained moderate steatosis. EAD was observed in 52.2% (n = 321) of grafts in the study cohort (79% in DCD grafts and 40% in DBD grafts). EAD grafts had higher donor risk index (DRI) scores (1.9 vs. 1.6, p < 0.0001), were more likely to come from DCD donors (48% vs. 13.8%, p < 0.0001), were regionally allocated (p = 0.003), and had higher cold ischemia times (median 6.0 vs. 5.5 h, p = 0.001). Primary nonfunction events were rare in both groups (1.3% vs. 0.3%, p = 0.22). Post-LT acute kidney injury occurred at a similar frequency in recipients with and without EAD (43.6% vs. 30.3%, p = 0.41), and there were no differences in ICU (median 2 vs. 1 day, p = 0.60) or hospital (6 vs. 5 days, p = 0.24) length of stay. For DCD grafts, the rate of ischemic cholangiopathy was similar in the two groups (14.9% EAD vs. 17.5% no EAD, p = 0.69). One-year patient survival for grafts with and without EAD was 96.0% and 94.1% (HR 1.2, 95% CI 0.7–1.8; p = 0.54); one-year graft survival was 92.5% and 92.1% (HR 1.0, 95% CI 0.7–1.5; p = 0.88). Conclusions: In this cohort, EAD occurred in 52% of grafts. The occurrence of EAD, however, did not portend inferior outcomes. Compared to those without EAD, recipients with EAD had similar post-operative outcomes, as well as one-year patient and graft survival. EAD should be managed supportively and should not be viewed as a deterrent to utilization of non-ideal grafts.
The Sweet Side of Fungal Infections: Structural Glycan Diversity and Its Importance for Pathogenic Adaptation
Authors: Diniz-Lima Israel , da Fonseca Leonardo Marques , dos Reis Jhenifer Santos , Rodrigues da Costa Santos Marcos André , da Costa Kelli Monteiro , do Nascimento Santos Carlos Antonio , Barcelos Pedro Marçal , Guimarães-Pinto Kamila , Filardy Alessandra Almeida , Freire-de-Lima Marco Edilson , Decote-Ricardo Debora , Morrot Alexandre , Freire-de-Lima Celio Geraldo , Freire-de-Lima Leonardo
Published: June 2022

Fungal infections are the most common secondary infections in debilitated individuals in a state of chronic disease or immunosuppression. Despite this, most fungal infections are neglected, mainly due to the lower frequency of their more severe clinical forms in immunocompetent individuals with a healthy background. However, over the past few years, several cases of severe fungal infections in healthy individuals have provoked a change in the epidemiological dynamics of fungal infections around the world, both due to recurrent outbreaks in previously infrequent regions and the greater emergence of more pathogenic fungal variants affecting healthy individuals, such as in the Cryptococcus genus. Therefore, before the arrival of a scenario of prevalent severe fungal infections, it is necessary to assess more carefully what are the real reasons for the increased incidence of fungal infection globally. What are the factors that are currently contributing to this new possible epidemiological dynamic? Could these be of a structural nature? Herein, we propose a discussion based on the importance of the virulence factors of glycoconjugate composition in the adaptation of pathogenic fungal species into the current scenario of increasing severity of these infections.