bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantum Contagion: A Quantum-Like Approach for the Analysis of Social Contagion Dynamics with Heterogeneous Adoption Thresholds
Authors: Mutlu Ece C. , Ozmen Garibay Ozlem
Published: April 2021

Modeling the information of social contagion processes has recently attracted a substantial amount of interest from researchers due to its wide applicability in network science, multi-agent-systems, information science, and marketing. Unlike in biological spreading, the existence of a reinforcement effect in social contagion necessitates considering the complexity of individuals in the systems. Although many studies acknowledged the heterogeneity of the individuals in their adoption of information, there are no studies that take into account the individuals’ uncertainty during their adoption decision-making. This resulted in less than optimal modeling of social contagion dynamics in the existence of phase transition in the final adoption size versus transmission probability. We employed the Inverse Born Problem (IBP) to represent probabilistic entities as complex probability amplitudes in edge-based compartmental theory, and demonstrated that our novel approach performs better in the prediction of social contagion dynamics through extensive simulations on random regular networks.
What Do We Know about The Use of Virtual Reality in the Rehabilitation Field? A Brief Overview
Authors: Naro Antonino , Calabrò Rocco Salvatore
Published: April 2021

Over the past two decades, virtual reality technology (VRT)-based rehabilitation has been increasingly examined and applied to assist patient recovery in the physical and cognitive domains. The advantages of the use of VRT in the neurorehabilitation field consist of the possibility of training an impaired function as a way to stimulate neuron reorganization (to maximize motor learning and neuroplasticity) and restoring and regaining functions and abilities by interacting with a safe and nonthreatening yet realistic virtual reality environment (VRE). Furthermore, VREs can be tailored to patient needs and provide personalized feedback on performance. VREs may also support cognitive training and increases patient motivation and enjoyment. Despite these potential advantages, there are inconclusive data about the usefulness of VRT in neurorehabilitation settings, and some issues on feasibility and safety remain to be ascertained for some neurological populations. The present brief overview aims to summarize the available literature on VRT applications in neurorehabilitation settings, along with discussing the pros and cons of VR and introducing the practical issues for research. The available studies on VRT for rehabilitation purposes over the past two decades have been mostly preliminary and feature small sample sizes. Furthermore, the studies dealing with VRT as an assessment method are more numerous than those harnessing VRT as a training method; however, the reviewed studies show the great potential of VRT in rehabilitation. A broad application of VRT is foreseeable in the near future due to the increasing availability of low-cost VR devices and the possibility of personalizing VR settings and the use of VR at home, thus actively contributing to reducing healthcare costs and improving rehabilitation outcomes.
A Comprehensive Survey on Cyber-Physical Smart Grid Testbed Architectures: Requirements and Challenges
Authors: Smadi Abdallah A. , Ajao Babatunde Tobi , Johnson Brian K. , Lei Hangtian , Chakhchoukh Yacine , Abu Al-Haija Qasem
Published: April 2021

The integration of improved control techniques with advanced information technologies enables the rapid development of smart grids. The necessity of having an efficient, reliable, and flexible communication infrastructure is achieved by enabling real-time data exchange between numerous intelligent and traditional electrical grid elements. The performance and efficiency of the power grid are enhanced with the incorporation of communication networks, intelligent automation, advanced sensors, and information technologies. Although smart grid technologies bring about valuable economic, social, and environmental benefits, testing the combination of heterogeneous and co-existing Cyber-Physical-Smart Grids (CP-SGs) with conventional technologies presents many challenges. The examination for both hardware and software components of the Smart Grid (SG) system is essential prior to the deployment in real-time systems. This can take place by developing a prototype to mimic the real operational circumstances with adequate configurations and precision. Therefore, it is essential to summarize state-of-the-art technologies of industrial control system testbeds and evaluate new technologies and vulnerabilities with the motivation of stimulating discoveries and designs. In this paper, a comprehensive review of the advancement of CP-SGs with their corresponding testbeds including diverse testing paradigms has been performed. In particular, we broadly discuss CP-SG testbed architectures along with the associated functions and main vulnerabilities. The testbed requirements, constraints, and applications are also discussed. Finally, the trends and future research directions are highlighted and specified.
Estimation of the Productivity Potential of Mountain Sites (Mixed Beech-Coniferous Stands) in the Romanian Carpathians
Authors: Cicșa Avram , Tudoran Gheorghe-Marian , Boroeanu Maria , Dobre Alexandru-Claudiu , Spârchez Gheorghe
Published: April 2021

Research Highlights: This study highlighted the possibility of estimating the productivity of mountain sites (mixed beech-coniferous stands) based on tree and stand dendrometric characteristics. Background and Objectives: The mountainous region of Romania offers suitable conditions for the formation and development of mixed beech-coniferous stands with complex, multi-aged structures. Based on the dendrometric characteristics of the trees, established indicators were used to estimate the productivity of the sites, with other quantitative indicators being proposed to better capture the particularities of mixed multi-aged stands. Materials and Methods: To evaluate the productive potential of the sites, a combined in situ mapping method was applied. Laboratory analyses of soils, and information provided indirectly by indicator plant and tree overstories, led to the characterization of soil types and the identification of forest sites for study. The productivity of the sites was estimated using quantitative indicators established based on the dendrometric characteristics of the trees and stands. Results: Indicators based on stand production and growth are relevant for multi-aged stands of mixed beech-coniferous formation. The ratio between tree volume and the basal area is the result of basal area and height increments, both of which are variable and depend on the quality of the site. Thus, a form height stand can be used as an indicator to characterize the productivity of the site in mixed multi-aged stands. Conclusions: Knowing the ecological specificity of sites in the formation of mixed beech-coniferous forests is a first condition necessary to achieving stable stands that are able to continuously fulfill multiple functions. The favorability of forest sites for a certain assortment of species is a fundamental character of the sites, which is essential for the management of these forest formations.
LiDAR Applications to Estimate Forest Biomass at Individual Tree Scale: Opportunities, Challenges and Future Perspectives
Authors: Xu Dandan , Wang Haobin , Xu Weixin , Luan Zhaoqing , Xu Xia
Published: April 2021

Accurate forest biomass estimation at the individual tree scale is the foundation of timber industry and forest management. It plays an important role in explaining ecological issues and small-scale processes. Remotely sensed images, across a range of spatial and temporal resolutions, with their advantages of non-destructive monitoring, are widely applied in forest biomass monitoring at global, ecoregion or community scales. However, the development of remote sensing applications for forest biomass at the individual tree scale has been relatively slow due to the constraints of spatial resolution and evaluation accuracy of remotely sensed data. With the improvements in platforms and spatial resolutions, as well as the development of remote sensing techniques, the potential for forest biomass estimation at the single tree level has been demonstrated. However, a comprehensive review of remote sensing of forest biomass scaled at individual trees has not been done. This review highlights the theoretical bases, challenges and future perspectives for Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) applications of individual trees scaled to whole forests. We summarize research on estimating individual tree volume and aboveground biomass (AGB) using Terrestrial Laser Scanning (TLS), Airborne Laser Scanning (ALS), Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Laser Scanning (UAV-LS) and Mobile Laser Scanning (MLS, including Vehicle-borne Laser Scanning (VLS) and Backpack Laser Scanning (BLS)) data.
Exploring the Roles of Local Mobility Patterns, Socioeconomic Conditions, and Lockdown Policies in Shaping the Patterns of COVID-19 Spread
Authors: Herrera Mauricio , Godoy-Faúndez Alex
Published: April 2021

The COVID-19 crisis has shown that we can only prevent the risk of mass contagion through timely, large-scale, coordinated, and decisive actions. This pandemic has also highlighted the critical importance of generating rigorous evidence for decision-making, and actionable insights from data, considering further the intricate web of causes and drivers behind observed patterns of contagion diffusion. Using mobility, socioeconomic, and epidemiological data recorded throughout the pandemic development in the Santiago Metropolitan Region, we seek to understand the observed patterns of contagion. We characterize human mobility patterns during the pandemic through different mobility indices and correlate such patterns with the observed contagion diffusion, providing data-driven models for insights, analysis, and inferences. Through these models, we examine some effects of the late application of mobility restrictions in high-income urban regions that were affected by high contagion rates at the beginning of the pandemic. Using augmented synthesis control methods, we study the consequences of the early lifting of mobility restrictions in low-income sectors connected by public transport to high-risk and high-income communes. The Santiago Metropolitan Region is one of the largest Latin American metropolises with features that are common to large cities. Therefore, it can be used as a relevant case study to unravel complex patterns of the spread of COVID-19.
Dynamic Control Architecture Based on Software Defined Networking for the Internet of Things
Authors: Bonanni Michele , Chiti Francesco , Fantacci Romano , Pierucci Laura
Published: April 2021

Software Defined Networking (SDN) provides a new perspective for the Internet of Things (IoT), since, with the separation of the control from the data planes, it is viable to optimise the traditional networks operation management. In particular, the SDN Controller has a global vision of the network of sensors/actuators domain, allowing real-time network nodes and data flows reconfiguration. As a consequence, devices, usually facing limited communications and computing resources, are relieved of the route selection task in a distributed and, thus, suboptimal way. This paper proposes a SDN-IoT architecture, specifically focusing on the Controller design, which dynamically optimises in real time the end-to-end flows delivery. In particular, the dynamic routing policy adaptation is based on the real-time estimation of the network status and it allows jointly minimising the end-to-end latency and energy consumption and, consequently, to improve the network life time. The performance of the proposed approach is analysed in terms of the average latency, energy consumption and overhead, pointing out a better behaviour in comparison with the existing distributed approaches.
Effect of Processing on Fish Protein Antigenicity and Allergenicity
Authors: Jiang Xingyi , Rao Qinchun
Published: April 2021

Fish allergy is a life-long food allergy whose prevalence is affected by many demographic factors. Currently, there is no cure for fish allergy, which can only be managed by strict avoidance of fish in the diet. According to the WHO/IUIS Allergen Nomenclature Sub-Committee, 12 fish proteins are recognized as allergens. Different processing (thermal and non-thermal) techniques are applied to fish and fishery products to reduce microorganisms, extend shelf life, and alter organoleptic/nutritional properties. In this concise review, the development of a consistent terminology for studying food protein immunogenicity, antigenicity, and allergenicity is proposed. It also summarizes that food processing may lead to a decrease, no change, or even increase in fish antigenicity and allergenicity due to the change of protein solubility, protein denaturation, and the modification of linear or conformational epitopes. Recent studies investigated the effect of processing on fish antigenicity/allergenicity and were mainly conducted on commonly consumed fish species and major fish allergens using in vitro methods. Future research areas such as novel fish species/allergens and ex vivo/in vivo evaluation methods would convey a comprehensive view of the relationship between processing and fish allergy.
8p23.2-pter Microdeletions: Seven New Cases Narrowing the Candidate Region and Review of the Literature
Authors: Catusi Ilaria , Garzo Maria , Capra Anna Paola , Briuglia Silvana , Baldo Chiara , Canevini Maria Paola , Cantone Rachele , Elia Flaviana , Forzano Francesca , Galesi Ornella , Grosso Enrico , Malacarne Michela , Peron Angela , Romano Corrado , Saccani Monica , Larizza Lidia , Recalcati Maria Paola
Published: April 2021

To date only five patients with 8p23.2-pter microdeletions manifesting a mild-to-moderate cognitive impairment and/or developmental delay, dysmorphisms and neurobehavioral issues were reported. The smallest microdeletion described by Wu in 2010 suggested a critical region (CR) of 2.1 Mb including several genes, out of which FBXO25, DLGAP2, CLN8, ARHGEF10 and MYOM2 are the main candidates. Here we present seven additional patients with 8p23.2-pter microdeletions, ranging from 71.79 kb to 4.55 Mb. The review of five previously reported and nine Decipher patients confirmed the association of the CR with a variable clinical phenotype characterized by intellectual disability/developmental delay, including language and speech delay and/or motor impairment, behavioral anomalies, autism spectrum disorder, dysmorphisms, microcephaly, fingers/toes anomalies and epilepsy. Genotype analysis allowed to narrow down the 8p23.3 candidate region which includes only DLGAP2, CLN8 and ARHGEF10 genes, accounting for the main signs of the broad clinical phenotype associated to 8p23.2-pter microdeletions. This region is more restricted compared to the previously proposed CR. Overall, our data favor the hypothesis that DLGAP2 is the actual strongest candidate for neurodevelopmental/behavioral phenotypes. Additional patients will be necessary to validate the pathogenic role of DLGAP2 and better define how the two contiguous genes, ARHGEF10 and CLN8, might contribute to the clinical phenotype.
Microbiological Evaluation and Sperm DNA Fragmentation in Semen Samples of Patients Undergoing Fertility Investigation
Authors: Pagliuca Chiara , Cariati Federica , Bagnulo Francesca , Scaglione Elena , Carotenuto Consolata , Farina Fabrizio , D’Argenio Valeria , Carraturo Francesca , D’Aprile Paola , Vitiello Mariateresa , Strina Ida , Alviggi Carlo , Colicchio Roberta , Tomaiuolo Rossella , Salvatore Paola
Published: April 2021

Fifteen percent of male infertility is associated with urogenital infections; several pathogens are able to alter the testicular and accessory glands’ microenvironment, resulting in the impairment of biofunctional sperm parameters. The purpose of this study was to assess the influence of urogenital infections on the quality of 53 human semen samples through standard analysis, microbiological evaluation, and molecular characterization of sperm DNA damage. The results showed a significant correlation between infected status and semen volume, sperm concentration, and motility. Moreover, a high risk of fragmented sperm DNA was demonstrated in the altered semen samples. Urogenital infections are often asymptomatic and thus an in-depth evaluation of the seminal sample can allow for both the diagnosis and therapy of infections while providing more indicators for male infertility management.
LINCking the Nuclear Envelope to Sperm Architecture
Authors: Manfrevola Francesco , Guillou Florian , Fasano Silvia , Pierantoni Riccardo , Chianese Rosanna
Published: April 2021

Nuclear architecture undergoes an extensive remodeling during spermatogenesis, especially at levels of spermatocytes (SPC) and spermatids (SPT). Interestingly, typical events of spermiogenesis, such as nuclear elongation, acrosome biogenesis, and flagellum formation, need a functional cooperation between proteins of the nuclear envelope and acroplaxome/manchette structures. In addition, nuclear envelope plays a key role in chromosome distribution. In this scenario, special attention has been focused on the LINC (linker of nucleoskeleton and cytoskeleton) complex, a nuclear envelope-bridge structure involved in the connection of the nucleoskeleton to the cytoskeleton, governing mechanotransduction. It includes two integral proteins: KASH- and SUN-domain proteins, on the outer (ONM) and inner (INM) nuclear membrane, respectively. The LINC complex is involved in several functions fundamental to the correct development of sperm cells such as head formation and head to tail connection, and, therefore, it seems to be important in determining male fertility. This review provides a global overview of the main LINC complex components, with a special attention to their subcellular localization in sperm cells, their roles in the regulation of sperm morphological maturation, and, lastly, LINC complex alterations associated to male infertility.
MED12-Related (Neuro)Developmental Disorders: A Question of Causality
Authors: van de Plassche Stijn R. , de Brouwer Arjan P. M.
Published: April 2021

MED12 is a member of the Mediator complex that is involved in the regulation of transcription. Missense variants in MED12 cause FG syndrome, Lujan-Fryns syndrome, and Ohdo syndrome, as well as non-syndromic intellectual disability (ID) in hemizygous males. Recently, female patients with de novo missense variants and de novo protein truncating variants in MED12 were described, resulting in a clinical spectrum centered around ID and Hardikar syndrome without ID. The missense variants are found throughout MED12, whether they are inherited in hemizygous males or de novo in females. They can result in syndromic or nonsyndromic ID. The de novo nonsense variants resulting in Hardikar syndrome that is characterized by facial clefting, pigmentary retinopathy, biliary anomalies, and intestinal malrotation, are found more N-terminally, whereas the more C-terminally positioned variants are de novo protein truncating variants that cause a severe, syndromic phenotype consisting of ID, facial dysmorphism, short stature, skeletal abnormalities, feeding difficulties, and variable other abnormalities. This broad range of distinct phenotypes calls for a method to distinguish between pathogenic and non-pathogenic variants in MED12. We propose an isogenic iNeuron model to establish the unique gene expression patterns that are associated with the specific MED12 variants. The discovery of these patterns would help in future diagnostics and determine the causality of the MED12 variants.
Impact of Work Value Awareness on Self-Rated Physical Health of Rural-to-Urban Migrant Workers in China
Authors: Yang Fan , Jiang Yao , Paudel Krishna P.
Published: April 2021

We used data based on the China Labor-Force Dynamics Survey 2016 to examine the relationship between the work value awareness and the physical health of rural-to-urban migrant workers. The work value awareness was characterized by five dimensions: awareness of the emotional value, social value, respect value, ability value and interest value. Physical health was measured by a self-rated health assessment. The results from an IV-ordered probit model show that the awareness of work value has a statistically significant impact on the self-rated physical health of rural-to-urban migrant workers. The results also show that the impacts of work value awareness on rural-to-urban migrant workers’ physical health are heterogeneous to genders and ages. Mental health plays a mediating role between the awareness of work value and the physical health of rural-to-urban migrant workers. It is beneficial for rural-to-urban migrant workers to improve awareness of the value of work to enhance their physical health. The findings of this paper have policy implications for improving the health and welfare of Chinese rural-to-urban migrant workers as well as temporary migrants to cities in many developing countries.
Understanding the Effects of eWOM Antecedents on Online Purchase Intention in China
Authors: Bilal Muhammad , Jianqiu Zeng , Dukhaykh Suad , Fan Mingyue , Trunk Aleš
Published: April 2021

Drawing on social identity theory, this study aims to examine the impact of antecedents of eWOM on the online purchase intention (OPI) of fashion-related products. In addition, social media usage moderates the relationship between eWOM and OPI. A structured questionnaire was completed by a sample of 477 Chinese WeChat users. An online survey was conducted in two metropolitan cities (Beijing and Shanghai). The hypotheses were tested using structural equation modeling (SEM) generated by AMOS 22. The findings of this study found that all five antecedents of eWOM, such as fashion involvement, sense of belonging, trust, tie strength, and informational influence, positively related to the OPI of fashion products in China. Furthermore, eWOM significantly mediates the relationship between fashion involvement, sense of belonging, trust, informational influence, and OPI. The current study is considered the first to examine the role of eWOM in stimulating OPI through social media usage for fashion-oriented products in China. As such, it enriches the online buying literature by exploring the OPI mechanism through eWOM antecedents and validating the importance of social media factors in the development of online buying intention compared to previous studies. Furthermore, it provides several theoretical and practical implications, along with future opportunities.
Combination of Static Echocardiographic Indices for the Prediction of Fluid Responsiveness in Patients Undergoing Coronary Surgery: A Pilot Study
Authors: Kim Hye-Bin , Soh Sarah , Song Jong-Wook , Kim Min-Yu , Kwak Young-Lan , Shim Jae-Kwang
Published: April 2021

We investigated the role of echocardiographic indices consisting of left ventricular end-diastolic area (LVEDA) in combination with Doppler-derived surrogates of diastolic compliance and filling (E/E′, E′/S′, E′/A′; early transmitral flow velocity (E), tissue Doppler-derived early (E′) diastolic, late (A′) diastolic, or peak systolic (S′) velocity of the mitral annulus) in predicting fluid responsiveness in off-pump coronary surgery. Hemodynamic and echocardiographic variables were prospectively assessed under general anesthesia before and after a fluid challenge of 6 mL/kg during apnea at atmospheric pressure in 64 patients with LV ejection fraction ≥40%. Forty patients (63%) were fluid responders (≥15% increase in stroke volume index). E/E′ and E′/S′ could predict fluid responsiveness with area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) of 0.71 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.56–0.85; p = 0.006) and 0.68 (95% CI, 0.54–0.82; p = 0.017), respectively. The combination of LVEDA and E/E′ showed incremental predictive ability for fluid responsiveness compared with LVEDA (AUROC, 0.60; p = 0.170) or pulse pressure variation (AUROC, 0.70; p = 0.002), yielding the highest AUROC of 0.78 (95% CI, 0.66–0.90; p < 0.001). The combined index of echocardiographic variables reflecting LV dimension (LVEDA) and diastolic compliance and filling (E/E′) is a potentially useful predictor of fluid responsiveness.
Combined Inhibition of TGF-β1-Induced EMT and PD-L1 Silencing Re-Sensitizes Hepatocellular Carcinoma to Sorafenib Treatment
Authors: Shrestha Ritu , Prithviraj Prashanth , Bridle Kim R. , Crawford Darrell H. G. , Jayachandran Aparna
Published: April 2021

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of primary hepatic malignancy. HCC is one of the leading causes of cancer deaths worldwide. The oral multi-tyrosine kinase inhibitor Sorafenib is the standard first-line therapy in patients with advanced unresectable HCC. Despite the significant survival benefit in HCC patients post treatment with Sorafenib, many patients had progressive disease as a result of acquiring drug resistance. Circumventing resistance to Sorafenib by exploring and targeting possible molecular mechanisms and pathways is an area of active investigation worldwide. Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a cellular process allowing epithelial cells to assume mesenchymal traits. HCC tumour cells undergo EMT to become immune evasive and develop resistance to Sorafenib treatment. Immune checkpoint molecules control immune escape in many tumours, including HCC. The aim of this study is to investigate whether combined inhibition of EMT and immune checkpoints can re-sensitise HCC to Sorafenib treatment. Post treatment with Sorafenib, HCC cells PLC/PRF/5 and Hep3B were monitored for induction of EMT and immune checkpoint molecules using quantitative reverse transcriptase (qRT)- PCR, western blot, immunofluorescence, and motility assays. The effect of combination treatment with SB431542, a specific inhibitor of the transforming growth factor (TGF)-β receptor kinase, and siRNA mediated knockdown of programmed cell death protein ligand-1 (PD-L1) on Sorafenib resistance was examined using a cell viability assay. We found that three days of Sorafenib treatment activated EMT with overexpression of TGF-β1 in both HCC cell lines. Following Sorafenib exposure, increase in the expression of PD-L1 and other immune checkpoints was observed. SB431542 blocked the TGF-β1-mediated EMT in HCC cells and also repressed PD-L1 expression. Likewise, knockdown of PD-L1 inhibited EMT. Moreover, the sensitivity of HCC cells to Sorafenib was enhanced by combining a blockade of EMT with SB431542 and knockdown of PD-L1 expression. Sorafenib-induced motility was attenuated with the combined treatment of SB431542 and PD-L1 knockdown. Our findings indicate that treatment with Sorafenib induces EMT and expression of immune checkpoint molecules, which contributes to Sorafenib resistance in HCC cells. Thus, the combination treatment strategy of inhibiting EMT and immune checkpoint molecules can re-sensitise HCC cells to Sorafenib.
Prevention and Treatment of Peritoneal Metastases from Gastric Cancer
Authors: Sugarbaker Paul H.
Published: April 2021

Common knowledge would suggest that regional treatments for peritoneal metastases from gastric cancer would not be successful [...]
Interleukin-31 and Pruritic Skin
Authors: Furue Masutaka , Furue Mihoko
Published: April 2021

Skin inflammation often evokes pruritus, which is the major subjective symptom in many inflammatory skin diseases such as atopic dermatitis and prurigo nodularis. Pruritus or itch is a specific sensation found only in the skin. Recent studies have stressed the pivotal role played by interleukin-31 (IL-31) in the sensation of pruritus. IL-31 is produced by various cells including T helper 2 cells, macrophages, dendritic cells and eosinophils. IL-31 signals via a heterodimeric receptor composed of IL-31 receptor A (IL-31RA) and oncostatin M receptor β. Recent clinical trials have shown that the anti-IL-31RA antibody nemolizumab can successfully decrease pruritus in patients with atopic dermatitis and prurigo nodularis. The IL-31 pathway and pruritic skin are highlighted in this review article.
Cross-Sectional Exploration of Plasma Biomarkers of Alzheimer’s Disease in Down Syndrome: Early Data from the Longitudinal Investigation for Enhancing Down Syndrome Research (LIFE-DSR) Study
Authors: Hendrix James A. , Airey David C. , Britton Angela , Burke Anna D. , Capone George T. , Chavez Ronelyn , Chen Jacqueline , Chicoine Brian , Costa Alberto C. S. , Dage Jeffrey L. , Doran Eric , Esbensen Anna , Evans Casey L. , Faber Kelley M. , Foroud Tatiana M. , Hart Sarah , Haugen Kelsey , Head Elizabeth , Hendrix Suzanne , Hillerstrom Hampus , Kishnani Priya S. , Krell Kavita , Ledesma Duvia Lara , Lai Florence , Lott Ira , Ochoa-Lubinoff Cesar , Mason Jennifer , Nicodemus-Johnson Jessie , Proctor Nicholas Kyle , Pulsifer Margaret B. , Revta Carolyn , Rosas H. Diana , Rosser Tracie C. , Santoro Stephanie , Schafer Kim , Scheidemantel Thomas , Schmitt Frederick , Skotko Brian G. , Stasko Melissa R. , Talboy Amy , Torres Amy , Wilmes Kristi , Woodward Jason , Zimmer Jennifer A. , Feldman Howard H. , Mobley William
Published: April 2021

With improved healthcare, the Down syndrome (DS) population is both growing and aging rapidly. However, with longevity comes a very high risk of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The LIFE-DSR study (NCT04149197) is a longitudinal natural history study recruiting 270 adults with DS over the age of 25. The study is designed to characterize trajectories of change in DS-associated AD (DS-AD). The current study reports its cross-sectional analysis of the first 90 subjects enrolled. Plasma biomarkers phosphorylated tau protein (p-tau), neurofilament light chain (NfL), amyloid β peptides (Aβ1-40, Aβ1-42), and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) were undertaken with previously published methods. The clinical data from the baseline visit include demographics as well as the cognitive measures under the Severe Impairment Battery (SIB) and Down Syndrome Mental Status Examination (DS-MSE). Biomarker distributions are described with strong statistical associations observed with participant age. The biomarker data contributes to understanding DS-AD across the spectrum of disease. Collectively, the biomarker data show evidence of DS-AD progression beginning at approximately 40 years of age. Exploring these data across the full LIFE-DSR longitudinal study population will be an important resource in understanding the onset, progression, and clinical profiles of DS-AD pathophysiology.
Accuracy of Three-Dimensional (3D) Printed Dental Digital Models Generated with Three Types of Resin Polymers by Extra-Oral Optical Scanning
Authors: Bud Eugen S. , Bocanet Vlad I. , Muntean Mircea H. , Vlasa Alexandru , Bucur Sorana M. , Păcurar Mariana , Dragomir Bogdan R. , Olteanu Cristian D. , Bud Anamaria
Published: April 2021

Digital impression devices are used alternatively to conventional impression techniques and materials. The aim of this study was to evaluate the precision of extraoral digitalization of three types of photosensitive resin polymers used for 3D printing with the aid of a digital extraoral optical scanner. The alignment of the scans was performed by a standard best-fit alignment. Trueness and precision were used to evaluate the models. The trueness was evaluated by using bias as a measure and the standard deviation was used to evaluate the precision. After assessing the normality of the distributions, an independent Kruskal–Wallis test was used to compare the trueness and precision across the material groups. The Mann–Whitney test was used as a post-hoc test for significant differences. The result of the analysis showed significant differences (U = 66, z = −2.337, p = 0.019) in trueness of mesiodistal distances. Upon visual inspection of the models, defects were noticed on two out of nine of the models printed with a photosensitive polymer. The defects were presented as cavities caused by air bubbles and were also reflected in the scans. Mean precision did not vary too much between these three photosensitive polymer resins, therefore, the selection of 3D printing materials should be based on the trueness and the required precision of the clinical purpose of the model.
Home-Measured Blood Pressure Is Associated with Handgrip Strength in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: The KAMOGAWA-HBP Study
Authors: Kimura Tomonori , Ushigome Emi , Hashimoto Yoshitaka , Nakanishi Naoko , Hamaguchi Masahide , Asano Mai , Yamazaki Masahiro , Fukui Michiaki
Published: April 2021

The association between blood pressure measured at home and handgrip strength in patients with diabetes has not been investigated. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to assess this association among patients with type 2 diabetes. In this cross-sectional study, 157 patients with type 2 diabetes underwent muscle tests and morning and evening blood-pressure measurements at home in triplicate for 14 consecutive days throughout the study period. Univariate and multivariate regression analyses were conducted to analyze the relationship between home blood-pressure parameters and handgrip strength. The average age and hemoglobin A1c of the patients were 70.5 years and 7.1%, respectively. Morning diastolic blood pressure of [β (95% confidence interval; CI): 0.20 (0.03, 0.37)] was associated with handgrip strength in men, while morning systolic blood pressure of [−0.09 (−0.15, −0.04)], morning pulse pressure of [−0.14 (−0.21, −0.08)], and evening pulse pressure of [−0.12 (−0.19, −0.04)] were associated with handgrip strength in women. Home-measured blood pressure was associated with handgrip strength. Sex differences were found in the relationship between home blood-pressure parameters and handgrip strength.
Comparative Study of Technologies for Tubule Occlusion and Treatment of Dentin Hypersensitivity
Authors: Berg Camilla , Unosson Erik , Engqvist Håkan , Xia Wei
Published: April 2021

This study aimed to evaluate the occluding/remineralization performance and resistance to acid attacks of the mineralization layer formed by a tooth-desensitizing gel containing amorphous calcium magnesium phosphate (ACMP) particles and compare it to six other desensitizing products available on the market. Similar comprehensive studies are few and there is especially a lack of studies that are up to date. A dentin-disc model was used for in vitro evaluation of the desensitizing toothpastes/gels. Application of the products was performed twice daily for seven days. One set of specimens were evaluated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) directly after the final treatment and another set was evaluated after an acid challenge, exposing specimens to 2 wt% citric acid. The ACMP desensitizing gel was the only product resulting in complete occlusion by the formation of mineralized material on the dentin surface and inside the tubules. Particle deposition was dominant after treatment with the other desensitizing products, with little or no mineralization, resulting in partial occlusion only. Sensodyne Repair & Protect and Oral-B Pro-Expert showed the highest resistance toward acid attacks. Material inside the tubules remained relatively unaffected by acid attacks in all specimens. The results in this study indicated a great variability among the occluding agents in terms of occlusion and acid resistance of the mineralization layer. The high degree of occlusion and intra-tubular mineralization that could mitigate the effect of acid solubilization indicate that the ACMP desensitizing gel may be a superior option for the treatment of dentin hypersensitivity.
It Often Howls More than It Chugs: Wind versus Ship Noise Under Water in Australia’s Maritime Regions
Authors: Erbe Christine , Schoeman Renee P. , Peel David , Smith Joshua N.
Published: April 2021

Marine soundscapes consist of cumulative contributions by diverse sources of sound grouped into: physical (e.g., wind), biological (e.g., fish), and anthropogenic (e.g., shipping)—each with unique spatial, temporal, and frequency characteristics. In terms of anthropophony, shipping has been found to be the greatest (ubiquitous and continuous) contributor of low-frequency underwater noise in several northern hemisphere soundscapes. Our aim was to develop a model for ship noise in Australian waters, which could be used by industry and government to manage marine zones, their usage, stressors, and potential impacts. We also modelled wind noise under water to provide context to the contribution of ship noise. The models were validated with underwater recordings from 25 sites. As expected, there was good congruence when shipping or wind were the dominant sources. However, there was less agreement when other anthropogenic or biological sources were present (i.e., primarily marine seismic surveying and whales). Off Australia, pristine marine soundscapes (based on the dominance of natural, biological and physical sound) remain, in particular, near offshore reefs and islands. Strong wind noise dominates along the southern Australian coast. Underwater shipping noise dominates only in certain areas, along the eastern seaboard and on the northwest shelf, close to shipping lanes.
The Mitochondrial Genome of the Sea Anemone Stichodactyla haddoni Reveals Catalytic Introns, Insertion-Like Element, and Unexpected Phylogeny
Authors: Johansen Steinar Daae , Chi Sylvia I. , Dubin Arseny , Jørgensen Tor Erik
Published: April 2021

A hallmark of sea anemone mitochondrial genomes (mitogenomes) is the presence of complex catalytic group I introns. Here, we report the complete mitogenome and corresponding transcriptome of the carpet sea anemone Stichodactyla haddoni (family Stichodactylidae). The mitogenome is vertebrate-like in size, organization, and gene content. Two mitochondrial genes encoding NADH dehydrogenase subunit 5 (ND5) and cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) are interrupted with complex group I introns, and one of the introns (ND5-717) harbors two conventional mitochondrial genes (ND1 and ND3) within its sequence. All the mitochondrial genes, including the group I introns, are expressed at the RNA level. Nonconventional and optional mitochondrial genes are present in the mitogenome of S. haddoni. One of these gene codes for a COI-884 intron homing endonuclease and is organized in-frame with the upstream COI exon. The insertion-like orfA is expressed as RNA and translocated in the mitogenome as compared with other sea anemones. Phylogenetic analyses based on complete nucleotide and derived protein sequences indicate that S. haddoni is embedded within the family Actiniidae, a finding that challenges current taxonomy.
Design and Analysis of an Aerostatic Pad Controlled by a Diaphragm Valve
Authors: Colombo Federico , Lentini Luigi , Raparelli Terenziano , Trivella Andrea , Viktorov Vladimir
Published: April 2021

Because of their distinctive characteristics, aerostatic bearings are particularly suitable for high-precision applications. However, because of the compressibility of the lubricant, this kind of bearing is characterized by low relative stiffness and poor damping. Compensation methods represent a valuable solution to these limitations. This paper presents a design procedure for passively compensated bearings controlled by diaphragm valves. Given a desired air gap height at which the system should work, the procedure makes it possible to maximize the stiffness of the bearing around this value. The designed bearings exhibit a quasi-static infinite stiffness for load variation ranging from 20% to almost 50% of the maximum load capacity of the bearing. Moreover, the influence of different parameters on the performance of the compensated pad is evaluated through a sensitivity analysis.
Thermodynamic Performance Analysis of Solar Based Organic Rankine Cycle Coupled with Thermal Storage for a Semi-Arid Climate
Authors: Almefreji Nasser Mohammed A. , Khan Babras , Kim Man-Hoe
Published: April 2021

This study focuses on the thermodynamic performance analysis of the solar organic Rankine cycle (SORC) that uses solar radiation over a moderate temperature range. A compound parabolic collector (CPC) was adjusted to collect solar radiation because of its long-lasting nature and featured low concentration ratios, which are favorable for moderate temperature applications. A thermal storage tank was fixed to preserve the solar energy and ensure the system’s continuous performance during unfavorable weather. However, water was used as the heat transfer fluid and R245fa was used as the working fluid in this system. The performance in both the hottest and coldest months was analyzed using the average hourly profile in MATLAB using weather data from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Variations in the tank temperature during the charging and discharging modes were found. The hourly based thermal efficiency and net power output for both configurations were also compared. The results show that at 17:00, when the cycle was about to shut down, the thermal efficiency was 12.79% and the network output was 16 kW in July, whereas in January, the efficiency was ~12.80% and the net power output was 15.54 kW.
A Convergent Collocation Approach for Generalized Fractional Integro-Differential Equations Using Jacobi Poly-Fractonomials
Authors: Kumar Sandeep , Pandey Rajesh K. , Srivastava H. M. , Singh G. N.
Published: April 2021

In this paper, we present a convergent collocation method with which to find the numerical solution of a generalized fractional integro-differential equation (GFIDE). The presented approach is based on the collocation method using Jacobi poly-fractonomials. The GFIDE is defined in terms of the B-operator introduced recently, and it reduces to Caputo fractional derivative and other fractional derivatives in special cases. The convergence and error analysis of the proposed method are also established. Linear and nonlinear cases of the considered GFIDEs are numerically solved and simulation results are presented to validate the theoretical results.
Estimating Ruin Probability in an Insurance Risk Model with Stochastic Premium Income Based on the CFS Method
Authors: Huang Yujuan , Li Jing , Liu Hengyu , Yu Wenguang
Published: April 2021

This paper considers the estimation of ruin probability in an insurance risk model with stochastic premium income. We first show that the ruin probability can be approximated by the complex Fourier series (CFS) expansion method. Then, we construct a nonparametric estimator of the ruin probability and analyze its convergence. Numerical examples are also provided to show the efficiency of our method when the sample size is finite.
Fractional Generalizations of Rodrigues-Type Formulas for Laguerre Functions in Function Spaces
Authors: Miana Pedro J. , Romero Natalia
Published: April 2021

Generalized Laguerre polynomials, Ln(α), verify the well-known Rodrigues’ formula. Using Weyl and Riemann–Liouville fractional calculi, we present several fractional generalizations of Rodrigues’ formula for generalized Laguerre functions and polynomials. As a consequence, we give a new addition formula and an integral representation for these polynomials. Finally, we introduce a new family of fractional Lebesgue spaces and show that some of these special functions belong to them.
Boundary Value Problems for ψ-Hilfer Type Sequential Fractional Differential Equations and Inclusions with Integral Multi-Point Boundary Conditions
Authors: Sitho Surang , Ntouyas Sotiris K. , Samadi Ayub , Tariboon Jessada
Published: April 2021

In the present article, we study a new class of sequential boundary value problems of fractional order differential equations and inclusions involving ψ-Hilfer fractional derivatives, supplemented with integral multi-point boundary conditions. The main results are obtained by employing tools from fixed point theory. Thus, in the single-valued case, the existence of a unique solution is proved by using the classical Banach fixed point theorem while an existence result is established via Krasnosel’skiĭ’s fixed point theorem. The Leray–Schauder nonlinear alternative for multi-valued maps is the basic tool to prove an existence result in the multi-valued case. Finally, our results are well illustrated by numerical examples.
Diagnosis and Prediction of IIGPS’ Countries Bubble Crashes during BREXIT
Authors: Ghosh Bikramaditya , Papathanasiou Spyros , Ramchandani Nikita , Kenourgios Dimitrios
Published: April 2021

We herein employ an alternative approach to model the financial bubbles prior to crashes and fit a log-periodic power law (LPPL) to IIGPS countries (Italy, Ireland, Greece, Portugal, and Spain) during Brexit. These countries represent the five financially troubled economies of the Eurozone that have suffered the most during the Brexit referendum. It was found that all 77 crashes across the five IIGPS nations from 19 January 2015 until 17 February 2020 strictly followed a log-periodic power law or other LPPL signature. They all had a speculative bubble phase (following the power law growth) that was then followed by a sudden crash immediately after reaching a critical point. Furthermore, their pattern coefficients were similar as well. This study would surely assist policymakers around the Eurozone to predict future crashes with the help of these parameters.
Application of Lipid Class Ratios for Sample Stability Monitoring—Evaluation of Murine Tissue Homogenates and SDS as a Stabilizer
Authors: Krautbauer Sabrina , Blazquez Raquel , Liebisch Gerhard , Hoering Marcus , Neubert Philip , Pukrop Tobias , Burkhardt Ralph , Sigruener Alexander
Published: April 2021

Lipids are a ubiquitous class of structurally complex molecules involved in various biological processes. In the fast-growing field of lipidomics, preanalytical issues are frequently neglected. Here, we investigated the stability of lipid profiles of murine liver, brain, lung, heart, and spleen homogenates by quantitative flow injection analysis using tandem mass spectrometry and high-resolution mass spectrometry. Storage of tissue homogenates at room temperature showed substantial alterations of the lipid profiles reflecting lipolytic action. Therefore, ratios of ceramide to sphingomyelin, lysophosphatidylethanolamine to phosphatidylethanolamine, lysophosphatidylcholine to phosphatidylcholine, and diglyceride to triglyceride were applied to monitor sample stability and the effect of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) as a potential stabilizing agent. The addition of SDS led to a concentration-dependent stabilization of lipid profiles in liver, brain, and heart homogenates, while in lung and spleen homogenates, in particular, the lysophosphatidylethanolamine to phosphatidylethanolamine ratio increased upon addition of SDS. In conclusion, we demonstrated that lipid class ratios reflecting lipolytic activity could be applied to evaluate both the stability of samples and the influence of stabilizers.
Analytical Proof of Origin for Raw Materials
Authors: Melcher Frank , Dietrich Valentina , Gäbler Hans-Eike
Published: April 2021

Growing public interest in getting information on the origin of raw materials used to manufacture goods for daily life has triggered the development of concepts to increase the transparency of raw material supply chains. Analytical proofs of origin (APOs) for raw materials may support those transparency concepts by giving evidence about the origin of a specific raw material shipment. For a variety of raw materials like gemstones, TTT (tantalum, tin, tungsten) minerals, and others, APOs have been developed. The identification of features that distinguish different origins, databases of those features from reliable reference samples, and a data evaluation strategy adopted to the envisaged application scenario are the key aspects of APO methods. Here, an overview is given on APO methods developed for different raw materials and application cases.