bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Tutorial on Bandit Learning and Its Applications in 5G Mobile Edge Computing (Invited Paper)
Authors: Liu Sige , Cheng Peng , Chen Zhuo , Vucetic Branka , Li Yonghui
Published: May 2022

Due to the rapid development of 5G and Internet-of-Things (IoT), various emerging applications have been catalyzed, ranging from face recognition, virtual reality to autonomous driving, demanding ubiquitous computation services beyond the capacity of mobile users (MUs). Mobile cloud computing (MCC) enables MUs to offload their tasks to the remote central cloud with substantial computation and storage, at the expense of long propagation latency. To solve the latency issue, mobile edge computing (MEC) pushes its servers to the edge of the network much closer to the MUs. It jointly considers the communication and computation to optimize network performance by satisfying quality-of-service (QoS) and quality-of-experience (QoE) requirements. However, MEC usually faces a complex combinatorial optimization problem with the complexity of exponential scale. Moreover, many important parameters might be unknown a-priori due to the dynamic nature of the offloading environment and network topology. In this paper, to deal with the above issues, we introduce bandit learning (BL), which enables each agent (MU/server) to make a sequential selection from a set of arms (servers/MUs) and then receive some numerical rewards. BL brings extra benefits to the joint consideration of offloading decision and resource allocation in MEC, including the matched mechanism, situation awareness through learning, and adaptability. We present a brief tutorial on BL of different variations, covering the mathematical formulations and corresponding solutions. Furthermore, we provide several applications of BL in MEC, including system models, problem formulations, proposed algorithms and simulation results. At last, we introduce several challenges and directions in the future research of BL in 5G MEC.
“I Want to Create So Much Stimulus That Adaptation Goes Through the Roof”: High-Performance Strength Coaches' Perceptions of Planned Overreaching
Authors: Bell Lee , Ruddock Alan , Maden-Wilkinson Tom , Rogerson David
Published: May 2022

Functional overreaching (FOR) occurs when athletes experience improved athletic capabilities in the days and weeks following short-term periods of increased training demand. However, prolonged high training demand with insufficient recovery may also lead to non-functional overreaching (NFOR) or the overtraining syndrome (OTS). The aim of this research was to explore strength coaches' perceptions and experiences of planned overreaching (POR); short-term periods of increased training demand designed to improve athletic performance. Fourteen high-performance strength coaches (weightlifting; n = 5, powerlifting; n = 4, sprinting; n = 2, throws; n = 2, jumps; n = 1) participated in semistructured interviews. Reflexive thematic analysis identified 3 themes: creating enough challenge, training prescription, and questioning the risk to reward. POR was implemented for a 7 to 14 day training cycle and facilitated through increased daily/weekly training volume and/or training intensity. Participants implemented POR in the weeks (~5–8 weeks) preceding competition to allow sufficient time for performance restoration and improvement to occur. Short-term decreased performance capacity, both during and in the days to weeks following training, was an anticipated by-product of POR, and at times used as a benchmark to confirm that training demand was sufficiently challenging. Some participants chose not to implement POR due to a lack of knowledge, confidence, and/or perceived increased risk of athlete training maladaptation. Additionally, this research highlights the potential dichotomy between POR protocols used by strength coaches to enhance athletic performance and those used for the purpose of inducing training maladaptation for diagnostic identification.
Delayed Progressive Mass Effect After Secured Ruptured Middle Cerebral Artery Aneurysm: Risk Factors and Outcomes
Authors: Li Ying-Ching , Chen Ching-Chang , Chen Chun-Ting , Tu Po-Hsun , Yeap Mun-Chun , Wu Yi-Ming , Liu Zhuo-Hao , Chang Ting-Wei , Lin Ya-Jui , Wu Tai-Wei Erich , Hsieh Po-Chuan
Published: May 2022

Objective

Delayed progressive mass effect (DPME) after securing an aneurysm is uncommon following microsurgical or endovascular repair and leads to a poor clinical outcome. Patients with ruptured middle cerebral artery (MCA) aneurysms have a high risk of postoperative oedema and mass effect, which may require decompressive treatment. Because few studies have discussed the risk and predictive factors, we focused on ruptured MCA aneurysms and evaluated the outcomes of these patients and the necessity of salvage surgery when DPME presented.

Methods

Data on 891 patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage (aSAH) treated between January 2011 and February 2020 were extracted from the medical database of a tertiary referral centre. A total of 113 patients with aSAH resulting from at least one MCA aneurysm were identified. After excluding patients with several clinical confounders, we enrolled 80 patients with surgically treated aSAH. We examined the characteristics of aneurysms and hematomas, perioperative contrast pooling patterns, presence of distal hematomas, perisylvian low density, occlusive treatment modality, management strategies, the need for salvage surgical decompression, and postoperative 90-day outcomes to identify possible risk factors.

Results

DPME was observed in 27 of the 80 patients (33.7%). The DPME and non-DPME group differed significantly in some respects. The DPME group had a higher risk of salvage surgery (p < 0.001) and poorer outcomes (mRS at day 90; p = 0.0018). The univariate analysis indicated that the presence of hematoma, CTA spot signs, perisylvian low density, and distal hematoma were independent risk factors for DPME. We also noted that DPME remained an independent predictor of a poorer 90-day functional outcome (mRS ≤ 2).

Conclusion

DPME can lead to salvage decompression surgery and directly relates to poor outcomes for patients with a ruptured MCA aneurysm. Distal hematoma, perisylvian low density, and CTA spot signs on preoperative images can predict DPME.
Liver Transplantation for Unresectable Calcifying Nested Stromal Epithelial Tumor: Case Report With a 1-Year Follow-Up and Review of Literature
Authors: Kruk Emilia , Kobryń Konrad , Rykowski Paweł , Szczepankiewicz Benedykt , Patkowski Waldemar , Zieniewicz Krzysztof
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Calcifying nested stromal epithelial tumor (CNSET) is an extremely rare diagnosis among patients treated for primary hepatic neoplasms. There are only 45 cases reported worldwide. Histopathological characteristics are well-demarcated nests of spindle and epithelioid cells in a dense desmoplastic stroma with variable calcification and ossification. It is mostly diagnosed in children and young females. Treatment strategies implemented for the management of CNSET include radiofrequency ablation, transarterial chemoembolization, surgical resection, adjuvant and neoadjuvant chemotherapy, and liver transplantation. Given the small number of available cases, there are still no established standards of treatment for this neoplasm.

Case Presentation

A 28-year-old female diagnosed with CNSET presented mild abdominal pain, with normal laboratory values. The tumor was initially deemed unresectable, therefore, the patient was disqualified from liver resection. Further deterioration of the patient's clinical condition and local tumor progression led to qualification for liver transplantation. The patient underwent liver transplantation 1 year following initial diagnosis and a 12 months recurrence-free period was observed. During the course of treatment, she did not receive systemic chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or loco-regional treatment.

Conclusion

Multiple strategies have been implemented for the treatment of CNSET, with liver resection providing the best outcomes. Transarterial chemoembolization, radiofrequency ablation, and radiotherapy are reported to be insufficient in the management of this tumor. Various chemotherapy regimens turned out to be ineffective as well. There have been only eight reported cases of patients undergoing liver transplantation for CNSET, with tumor recurrence in two cases. CNSET appears to be a neoplasm with low malignancy potential, although an aggressive progression has subsequently been reported. Further investigation is still required in this field.
Analysis of the Rehabilitation Efficacy and Nutritional Status of Patients After Endoscopic Radical Thyroidectomy by Fast Track Surgery Based on Nutritional Support
Authors: Qu Fang , Bu Hongxia , Yang Liu , Liu Hui , Xie Chaoying
Published: May 2022

Objective

To investigate and analyze the effect of fast track surgery (FTS) based on nutritional support on the improvement of rehabilitation efficacy and nutritional status of patients after radical lumpectomy for thyroid cancer.

Methods

Eighty-six patients admitted to our hospital for radical lumpectomy for thyroid cancer between April 2018 and April 2021 were selected, of which 40 patients admitted between April 2018 and April 2019 were included in the control group with conventional perioperative care. Forty-six patients admitted between May 2019 and April 2021 were included in the trial group with FTS care based on nutritional support. The two groups of patients were compared in terms of postoperative feeding time, length of stay, time out of bed, VAS scores, albumin (ALB), total protein (TP) and prealbumin (PA) levels, negative emotions [Mental Health Test Questionnaire (DCL-90)], quality of life [General Quality of Life Inventory (GQOLI-74)] and complication rates.

Results

The patients in the trial group had shorter feeding time, hospitalization time and time out of bed than the control group (P < 0.05). After the intervention, ALB, TP and PA levels were higher in the trial group than in the control group vs. preoperatively (P < 0.05); VAS scores in the trial group were lower than VAS scores in the control group during the same period (P < 0.05). The postoperative DCL-90 scores of the trial group were lower than those of the control group (P < 0.05); the GQOLI-74 scores and total scores of the trial group were higher than those of the control group at the 3-month postoperative follow-up (P < 0.05). The overall incidence of complications such as hoarseness, choking on water, hand and foot numbness, wound infection, and hypocalemia was lower in the trial group than in the control group (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The implementation of FTS care based on nutritional support for patients after endoscopic radical thyroidectomyr can effectively improve the postoperative recovery and reduce their pain level, as well as help improve their nutritional status, negative emotions and improve their quality of life, which is worth promoting.
Application of Defined Approaches for Skin Sensitization to Agrochemical Products
Authors: Strickland Judy , Truax James , Corvaro Marco , Settivari Raja , Henriquez Joseph , McFadden Jeremy , Gulledge Travis , Johnson Victor , Gehen Sean , Germolec Dori , Allen David G. , Kleinstreuer Nicole
Published: May 2022

Skin sensitization testing is a regulatory requirement for safety evaluations of pesticides in multiple countries. Globally harmonized test guidelines that include in chemico and in vitro methods reduce animal use, but no single assay is recommended as a complete replacement for animal tests. Defined approaches (DAs) that integrate data from multiple non-animal methods are accepted; however, the methods that comprise them have been evaluated using monoconstituent substances rather than mixtures or formulations. To address this data gap, we tested 27 agrochemical formulations in the direct peptide reactivity assay (DPRA), the KeratinoSens™ assay, and the human cell line activation test (h-CLAT). These data were used as inputs to evaluate three DAs for hazard classification of skin sensitization potential and two DAs for potency categorization. When compared to historical animal results, balanced accuracy for the DAs for predicting in vivo skin sensitization hazard (i.e., sensitizer vs. nonsensitizer) ranged from 56 to 78%. The best performing DA was the “2 out of 3 (2o3)” DA, in which the hazard classification was based on two concordant results from the DPRA, KeratinoSens, or h-CLAT. The KE 3/1 sequential testing strategy (STS), which uses h-CLAT and DPRA results, and the integrated testing strategy (ITSv2), which uses h-CLAT, DPRA, and an in silico hazard prediction from OECD QSAR Toolbox, had balanced accuracies of 56–57% for hazard classification. Of the individual test methods, KeratinoSens had the best performance for predicting in vivo hazard outcomes. Its balanced accuracy of 81% was similar to that of the 2o3 DA (78%). For predicting potency categories defined by the United Nations Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS), the correct classification rate of the STS was 52% and that of the ITSv2 was 43%. These results demonstrate that non-animal test methods have utility for evaluating the skin sensitization potential of agrochemical formulations as compared to animal reference data. While additional data generation is needed, testing strategies such as DAs anchored to human biology and mechanistic information provide a promising approach for agrochemical formulation testing.
Disturbance Observer-Based Tracking Controller for Uncertain Marine Surface Vessel
Authors: Bouteraa Yassine , Alattas Khalid A. , Mobayen Saleh , Golestani Mehdi , Ibrahim Atef , Tariq Usman
Published: May 2022

In this study, a novel control framework is proposed to improve the tracking performance of uncertain marine vessels which work in enhanced sea states. The proposed control strategy is based on incorporating a fixed-time nonlinear disturbance observer (FTNDO) in a fixed-time convergent backstepping control. More specifically, the FTNDO is developed to reconstruct the total uncertainties due to the system uncertainty and unknown time-varying exterior disturbances. In comparison with the existing disturbance observers, the FTNDO guarantees that the estimation errors will converge to the origin within a predefined time even if the initial estimation errors tend toward infinity. This feature is quite important in the closed-loop system stability analysis as the separation principle does not hold in nonlinear systems. Besides, it does not require the restricting assumption that the upper bound of the lumped uncertainty or its time derivative has to be bounded or known. A backstepping control with a compensation control part is then designed to make the tracking errors converge to the origin within a finite time regardless of initial tracking errors. The compensation control is developed by means of the estimated signal and applied to totally reject the total uncertainty. The global fixed-time stabilization of the closed-loop system is investigated through the Lyapunov stability criterion. Numerical simulation results conducted on an uncertain marine surface vessel confirm the superior control performance and efficiency of the planned method in comparison with the existing disturbance observer-based tracking control strategies.
Effects of Acremonium terricola Culture on the Growth, Slaughter Yield, Immune Organ, Serum Biochemical Indexes, and Antioxidant Indexes of Geese
Authors: Chen Jinyuan , Guo Yawen , Lu Yang , He Zhaoyuan , Zhu Yali , Liu Shuyu , Xie Kaizhou
Published: May 2022

Acremonium terricola culture (ATC) is a new type of green feed additive, and its main components include cordycepin, adenosine, and ergosterol. In this study, the Hortobagy geese were used as the experimental animals to explore the effects of ATC addition to the basal diet. Seven hundred and twenty 1-day-old Hortobagy geese were randomly divided into four treatment groups, each with 180 geese divided into six pens equally. The four treatments included the control group and three experimental treatments. Half of the geese in each group were males and half were females. All geese were offered the same basal diet with ATC supplementation at 0, 3, 5, and 7 g/kg. The results showed that basal diet supplementation with 7 g/kg ATC reduced the feed conversion rate (FCR) of Hortobagy geese in a highly significant manner (p < 0.01). When the dosage of ATC was 3 g/kg, the breast muscle rate and leg muscle rate of female geese were significantly increased (p < 0.05). ATC supplementation in the basal diet had no significant effect on the immune organ index of Hortobagy geese (p > 0.05). Basal diet supplementation with 3 g/kg and 5 g/kg ATC significantly reduced the alanine aminotransferase (ALT) content in the serum of female geese, significantly increased the total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) of the serum, and significantly reduced the malondialdehyde (MDA) content in the serum (p < 0.05). The addition of 5 g/kg and 7 g/kg ATC to the basal diet reduced the blood glucose (GLU) content in male geese in a highly significant manner (p < 0.01). A basal diet supplemented with 3 g/kg and 7 g/kg ATC significantly reduced the MDA content in geese breast muscles (p < 0.05). Basal diet supplementation with 3 g/kg ATC highly significantly improved the T-AOC of female geese breast muscles (p < 0.01). Basal diet supplementation with 5 g/kg ATC significantly improved the T-AOC of female geese leg muscles (p < 0.01). In summary, basal diet supplementation with ATC enhances the growth performance and antioxidant properties of Hortobagy geese.
Spatiotemporal Model to Quantify Stocks of Metal Cladding Products for a Prospective Circular Economy
Authors: Roy Krishanu , Su Ran , Dani Aflah Alamsah , Fang Zhiyuan , Liang Hao , Lim James B. P.
Published: May 2022

The traditional linear economy (LE) approach based on a “take-make-dispose” plan that has been used in building activities over a long period has a significant impact on the environment. In the LE approach, the used materials are usually sent to landfills rather than recycled, resulting in resource depletion and excessive carbon emissions. A circular economy (CE) is expected to solve these environmental problems by promoting material “closed-loop systems”. This study was intended to quantify and analyse the global warming potential (GWP) values of specific metal roofing and cladding products to promote CE thinking. A spatiotemporal model integrated with the life cycle assessment (LCA) tool was used to quantify the GWP value of the steel products in the investigated buildings. The study analysed ten case buildings located in six different cities in New Zealand: Auckland, Wellington, Hamilton, Palmerston North, Tauranga, and Christchurch. The production stages (A1–A3), water processing (C3), disposal (C4), and recycle, reuse, and recovery stages (D) were the focus of the study in analysing the GWP values of the product’s life cycle. The study found that the production stages became the most significant emitters (approximately 99.67%) of the investigated steel products’ GWP values compared to other selected life cycle stages. However, when considering the recycling stages of the steel products, the GWP value was reduced up to 32%. Therefore, by implementing the recycling process, the amount of GWP can be reduced, consequently limiting the building activities’ environmental impacts. In addition, the integration of spatial analysis and LCA was found to have potential use and benefit in future urban mining and the development of the CE approach in the construction industry.
Numerical Study on Thermal-Hydraulic Performance of Printed Circuit Heat Exchangers during Natural Gas Trans-Critical Liquefaction
Authors: Liu Lei , Yan Aihua , Shi Qiuxiang , Xiao Xi , Zhu Chenbing , Yang Xuelong
Published: May 2022

Printed Circuit Heat Exchangers (PCHEs) are considered an excellent alternative for the main cryogenic heat exchanger of Floating Liquefied Natural Gas (FLNG) facilities due to their compact structure and strong heat transfer performance. However, it is unclear how to configure the geometry of the PCHE channels to achieve its optimal performance in the trans-critical liquefaction process of natural gas (NG), which is critical for the main heat exchanger. In this paper, we numerically studied the thermal-hydraulic characteristics of PCHEs with different channel types under the specified condition. The results elucidate that all channels have an enhancement of heat transfer near the pseudo-critical point of NG. All the wavy channels could improve the heat transfer performance of PCHEs, where the trapezoidal channel achieves the largest promotion. Compared with the straight channel, the local heat transfer coefficient could be increased by up to 53% in the trapezoidal channel. Additionally, vortex appeared at the bends of the wavy channels, which greatly increase the local friction loss. Among several channels, the total pressure drop of zigzag, fillet and the sinusoidal channel was almost the same, while that of the trapezoidal channel was the largest. Furthermore, we compared the comprehensive performance of different types of channels and found that the benefit of heat transfer enhancement could not offset the penalty of flow deterioration. Our work provides important guidance for the design of PCHEs employed in FLNG.
Carbonation and Corrosion Problems in Reinforced Concrete Structures
Authors: Fuhaid Abdulrahman Fahad Al , Niaz Akbar
Published: May 2022

Reinforced concrete (RC) has been commonly used as a construction material for decades due to its high compressive strength and moderate tensile strength. However, these two properties of RC are frequently hampered by degradation. The main degradation processes in RC structures are carbonation and the corrosion of rebars. The scientific community is divided regarding the process by which carbonation causes structural damage. Some researchers suggest that carbonation weakens a structure and makes it prone to rebar corrosion, while others suggest that carbonation does not damage structures enough to cause rebar corrosion. This paper is a review of the research work carried out by different researchers on the carbonation and corrosion of RC structures. The process of carbonation and the factors that contribute to this process will be discussed, alongside recommendations for improving structures to decrease the carbonation process. The corrosion of rebars, damage to passive layers, volume expansion due to steel oxidation, and crack growth will also be discussed. Available protection methods for reducing carbonation, such as rebar structure coating, cathodic protection, and modifier implementation, will also be reviewed. The paper concludes by describing the most significant types of damage caused by carbonation, testing protocols, and mitigation against corrosion damage.
Experimental Study on the Natural Dynamic Characteristics of Steel-Framed Modular Structures
Authors: Farajian Mostafa , Sharafi Pejman , Bigdeli Ali , Eslamnia Hadi , Rahnamayiezekavat Payam
Published: May 2022

Corner-supported modular structures are made of repetitive prefurnished, prefinished modular units, which are fabricated in a factory and transported to the site of a building to form a permanent building block. The modular units are then tied together through the use of so-called inter-modular connections, or inter-connections, which form a different configuration at joints compared to conventional steel structures. The presence of inter-connections in these structures, in addition to beam-to-column connections or intra-connections, may change their dynamic characteristics, including natural frequencies, mode shapes, and damping ratios. This paper aims to investigate the dynamic characteristics of a modular building through the use of operational modal analysis (OMA). A half-scaled three-storey modular structure, designed and instrumented with highly sensitive accelerometers, was experimentally tested under pure and randomly generated vibrations. The time history of the response acceleration of the structure was recorded using a data acquisition system. Different output-only techniques of OMA, based on both frequency and time domains, were employed to analyse the recorded response acceleration of the structure and extract the natural frequencies, mode shapes, and damping ratios. These techniques are peak picking (PP), enhanced frequency-domain decomposition (EFDD), and stochastic subspace identification (SSI). The outcomes in this paper can be used for further research on the development of an experimental formula for the design of multistorey modular buildings against lateral loads.
Optimizing Rhabdomyosarcoma Treatment in Adolescents and Young Adults
Authors: Makimoto Atsushi
Published: May 2022

Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is the most common form of soft tissue sarcoma in children, but can also develop in adolescents and young adults (AYA). The mainstay of treatment is multi-agent chemotherapy, ideally with concomitant local treatment, including surgical resection and/or radiation therapy. Although most treatment decisions for RMS in AYA are based on scientific evidence accumulated through clinical studies of pediatric RMS, treatment outcomes are significantly inferior in AYA patients than in children. Factors responsible for the significantly poor outcomes in AYA are tumor biology, the physiology specific to the age group concerned, refractoriness to multimodal treatments, and various psychosocial and medical care issues. The present review aims to examine the various issues involved in the treatment and care of AYA patients with RMS, discuss possible solutions, and provide an overview of the literature on the topic with several observations from the author’s own experience. Clinical trials for RMS in AYA are the best way to develop an optimal treatment. However, a well-designed clinical trial requires a great deal of time and resources, especially when targeting such a rare population. Until clinical trials are designed and implemented, and their findings duly analyzed, we must provide the best possible practice for RMS treatment in AYA patients based on our own expertise in manipulating the dosage schedules of various chemotherapeutic agents and administering local treatments in a manner appropriate for each patient. Precision medicine based on state-of-the-art cancer genomics will also form an integral part of this personalized approach. In the current situation, the only way to realize such a holistic treatment approach is to integrate new developments and findings, such as gene-based diagnostics and treatments, with older, fundamental evidence that can be selectively applied to individual cases.
Synergistic Effect between Ni and Ce Dual Active Centers Initiated by Activated Fullerene Soot for Electro-Fenton Degradation of Tetracycline
Authors: Li Chi , Lian Yongfu , Zhou Qin
Published: May 2022

The degradation of a high concentration of organic pollutants has long been a challenge to water restoration, and the development of electro-Fenton catalysis offers a practical approach to solving this problem. In this study, a novel electro-Fenton catalyst, activated fullerene soot-loaded NiO-doped CeO2 (0.4(0.4NiO-CeO2)-AFS) nanoparticles, was prepared through the impregnation of 0.4NiO-CeO2 particles and activated fullerene soot (AFS). When applied for the degradation of 200 mg/L of tetracycline, this catalyst demonstrated a degradation rate as high as 99%. Even after 20 cycles, the degradation rate was more than 80%. Moreover, it was concluded that AFS could initiate the synergistic effect between Ni and Ce dual active centers in the degradation of tetracycline; this can be ascribed to the extremely large specific surface area of AFS.
Escherichia coli tRNA 2-Selenouridine Synthase (SelU): Elucidation of Substrate Specificity to Understand the Role of S-Geranyl-tRNA in the Conversion of 2-Thio- into 2-Selenouridines in Bacterial tRNA
Authors: Szczupak Patrycja , Sierant Malgorzata , Wielgus Ewelina , Radzikowska-Cieciura Ewa , Kulik Katarzyna , Krakowiak Agnieszka , Kuwerska Paulina , Leszczynska Grazyna , Nawrot Barbara
Published: May 2022

The bacterial enzyme tRNA 2-selenouridine synthase (SelU) is responsible for the conversion of 5-substituted 2-thiouridine (R5S2U), present in the anticodon of some bacterial tRNAs, into 5-substituted 2-selenouridine (R5Se2U). We have already demonstrated using synthetic RNAs that transformation S2U→Se2U is a two-step process, in which the S2U-RNA is geranylated and the resulting geS2U-RNA is selenated. Currently, the question is how SelU recognizes its substrates and what the cellular pathway of R5S2U→R5Se2U conversion is in natural tRNA. In the study presented here, we characterized the SelU substrate requirements, identified SelU-associated tRNAs and their specific modifications in the wobble position. Finally, we explained the sequence of steps in the selenation of tRNA. The S2U position within the RNA chain, the flanking sequence of the modification, and the length of the RNA substrate, all have a key influence on the recognition by SelU. MST data on the affinity of SelU to individual RNAs confirmed the presumed process. SelU binds the R5S2U-tRNA and then catalyzes its geranylation to the R5geS2U-tRNA, which remains bound to the enzyme and is selenated in the next step of the transformation. Finally, the R5Se2U-tRNA leaves the enzyme and participates in the translation process. The enzyme does not directly catalyze the R5S2U-tRNA selenation and the R5geS2U-tRNA is the intermediate product in the linear sequence of reactions.
Functional Characterization of Endothelial Cells Differentiated from Porcine Epiblast Stem Cells
Authors: Shin Joon-Hong , Seo Bo-Gyeong , Lee In-Won , Kim Hyo-Jin , Seo Eun-Chan , Lee Kwang-Min , Jeon Soo-Been , Baek Sang-Ki , Kim Tae-Suk , Lee Jeong-Hyung , Choi Jung-Woo , Hwangbo Cheol , Lee Joon-Hee
Published: May 2022

Endothelial cells (ECs), lining blood vessels’ lumen, play an essential role in regulating vascular functions. As multifunctional components of vascular structures, pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) are the promising source for potential therapeutic applications in various vascular diseases. Our laboratory has previously established an approach for differentiating porcine epiblast stem cells (pEpiSCs) into ECs, representing an alternative and potentially superior cell source. However, the condition of pEpiSCs-derived ECs growth has yet to be determined, and whether pEpiSCs differentiate into functional ECs remained unclear. Changes in morphology, proliferation and functional endothelial marker were assessed in pEpiSCs-derived ECs in vitro. pEpiSCs-derived ECs were subjected to magnetic-activated cell sorting (MACS) to collect CD-31+ of ECs. We found that sorted ECs showed the highest proliferation rate in differentiation media in primary culture and M199 media in the subculture. Next, sorted ECs were examined for their ability to act as typical vascular ECs through capillary-like structure formation assay, Dil-acetylated low-density lipoprotein (Dil-Ac-LDL) uptake, and three-dimensional spheroid sprouting. Consequently, pEpiSCs-derived ECs function as typical vascular ECs, indicating that pEpiSC-derived ECs might be used to develop cell therapeutics for vascular disease.
Electrochemical Corrosion Characterization of Submicron WC-12Co Coatings Produced by CGS and HVAF Compared with Sintered Bulks
Authors: Cinca Núria , Lavigne Olivier , Peres Riberto Nunes , Conze Susan , Hoehn Soeren , Dosta Sergi , Koivuluoto Heli , Kim Chung , da Silva Fernando Santos , Matikainen Ville , Jafari Reza , Tarrés Elena , Benedetti Assis Vicente
Published: May 2022

The electrochemical corrosion performance of WC-12 wt% Co in coating and bulk forms has been evaluated in a 3.56 wt% NaCl solution. The coatings were deposited by means of thermal spray techniques, i.e., cold gas spraying (CGS) and high-velocity air fuel (HVAF) spraying, while bulks with different WC sizes were manufactured by conventional pressing and sintering. Microstructural characterizations and phase composition determinations were carried out using scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. Differences in WC grain size and morphology, carbide dissolution, and cobalt binder phase transformation are discussed according to the inherent characteristics of each processing method. Together with surface roughness (polished/as-sprayed), these features have been observed to directly affect the electrochemical corrosion performance. Electrochemical measurements (open circuit potential, polarization resistance, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and polarization curves) showed that the as-sprayed CGS coating presented an electrochemical behavior similar to those of the bulk materials. This was attributed to the higher metallic character of this coating in comparison to that of the HVAF coating. The polished HVAF coating showed anodic activity lower than those of the bulk samples, most likely due to the presence of cobalt–tungsten carbide phases and eventually the lower amount of Co available for dissolution. Finally, the as-sprayed HVAF coating showed very high resistivity due to the presence of surface oxides generated during the deposition process.
LFDFT—A Practical Tool for Coordination Chemistry
Authors: Ramanantoanina Harry
Published: May 2022

The electronic structure of coordination compounds with lanthanide ions is studied by means of density functional theory (DFT) calculations. This work deals with the electronic structure and properties of open-shell systems based on the calculation of multiplet structure and ligand-field interaction, within the framework of the Ligand–Field Density-Functional Theory (LFDFT) method. Using effective Hamiltonian in conjunction with the DFT, we are able to reasonably calculate the low-lying excited states of the molecular [Eu(NO3)3(phenanthroline)2] complex, subjected to the Eu3+ configuration 4f6. The results are compared with available experimental data, revealing relative uncertainties of less than 5% for many energy levels. We also demonstrate the ability of the LFDFT method to simulate absorption spectrum, considering cerocene as an example. Ce M4,5 X-ray absorption spectra are simulated for the complexes [Ce(η8−C8H8)2] and [Ce(η8−C8H8)2][Li(tetrahydrofurane)4], which are approximated by the Ce oxidation states 4+ and 3+, respectively. The results showed a very good agreement with the experimental data for the Ce3+ compound, unlike for the Ce4+ one, where charge transfer electronic structure is still missing in the theoretical model. Therefore this presentation reports the benefits of having a theoretical method that is primarily dedicated to coordination chemistry, but it also outlines limitations and places the ongoing developmental efforts in the broader context of treating complex molecular systems.
Conventional Biophotonic Sensing Approach for Sensing and Detection of Normal and Infected Samples Containing Different Blood Components
Authors: Matar Z. , Al-Dossari M. , Awasthi S. , Mohamed D. , Abd El-Gawaad N. , Aly A.
Published: May 2022

The present research work focused on the biosensing capabilities of one-dimensional (1D) defected photonic crystal (PC). This proposed structure is capable of simultaneously discriminating between normal and infected samples containing the platelet, plasma, and hemoglobin components of blood. The proposed biosensor was designed by creating a defect layer D of air in the middle of 1D PC (PQ)N to form modified 1D PC with a defect as (PQ)N/2D(PQ)N/2. The period number (N) of 1D PC (PQ)N was chosen to be 10. The cavity region of air was used to investigate only one of the five samples, at each time, that are part of this study. The theoretical findings of the proposed work were obtained using the well-known transfer matrix method in addition to MATLAB software. The results were computed corresponding to defect layer thicknesses of 200 and 700 nm under normal incidence to overcome the difficulties associated under oblique incidence corresponding to TE and TM polarized waves. We examined the performance of the proposed design by calculating the sensitivity, figure of merit, and quality factor values of the biophotonic sensor loaded with different samples. It was found that the sensitivity of our design reaches to a maximum of 428.6 nm/RIU corresponding to the defect layer thickness of 700 nm, when the cavity is loaded with an infected blood sample containing plasma only. This study successfully simultaneously examined the normal and infected blood samples containing the platelet, plasma, and hemoglobin components of blood.
Description of Dynamic Recrystallization by Means of An Advanced Statistical Multilevel Model: Grain Structure Evolution Analysis
Authors: Trusov Peter , Kondratev Nikita , Podsedertsev Andrej
Published: May 2022

Physical multilevel models of inelastic deformation that take into account the material structure evolution hold promise for the development of functional materials. In this paper, we propose an advanced (modified via analyzing the mutual arrangement of crystallites) statistical multilevel model for studying thermomechanical processing of polycrystals that includes a description of the dynamic recrystallization process. The model is based on the consideration of homogeneous elements (grains, subgrains) aggregated into a representative volume (macropoint) under the Voigt hypothesis. In the framework of this statistical approach, there is no mandatory requirement for continuous filling of the computational domain with crystallites; however, the material grain structure cannot be created arbitrarily. Using the Laguerre polyhedra, we develop a method of grain structure simulation coupled with subsequent processing and transferring of the necessary data on the grain structure to the modified statistical model. Our research is of much current interest due to the fact that the mutual arrangement of crystallites, as well as the interfaces between them, has a significant impact on the properties of polycrystals, which are particularly important for physical mechanisms that provide and accompany the processes of inelastic deformation (recrystallization, grain boundary hardening, grain boundary sliding, etc.). The results of the simulations of the high-temperature deformation of a copper polycrystal, including the description of the recrystallization process, are presented.
A Novel Machine Learning-Based Approach for Induction Machine Fault Classifier Development—A Broken Rotor Bar Case Study
Authors: Tahkola Mikko , Szücs Áron , Halme Jari , Zeb Akhtar , Keränen Janne
Published: May 2022

Rotor bars are one of the most failure-critical components in induction machines. We present an approach for developing a rotor bar fault identification classifier for induction machines. The developed machine learning-based models are based on simulated electrical current and vibration velocity data and measured vibration acceleration data. We introduce an approach that combines sequential model-based optimization and the nested cross-validation procedure to provide a reliable estimation of the classifiers’ generalization performance. These methods have not been combined earlier in this context. Automation of selected parts of the modeling procedure is studied with the measured data. We compare the performance of logistic regression and CatBoost models using the fast Fourier-transformed signals or their extracted statistical features as the input data. We develop a technique to use domain knowledge to extract features from specific frequency ranges of the fast Fourier-transformed signals. While both approaches resulted in similar accuracy with simulated current and measured vibration acceleration data, the feature-based models were faster to develop and run. With measured vibration acceleration data, better accuracy was obtained with the raw fast Fourier-transformed signals. The results demonstrate that an accurate and fast broken rotor bar detection model can be developed with the presented approach.
Analysis of Rostov-II Benchmark Using Conventional Two-Step Code Systems
Authors: Jang Jaerim , Hursin Mathieu , Lee Woonghee , Pautz Andreas , Papadionysiou Marianna , Ferroukhi Hakim , Lee Deokjung
Published: May 2022

This paper presents the steady state analysis of the Rostov-II benchmark using the conventional two-step approach. It involves the STREAM/RAST-K and CASMO-5/PARCS code systems. This paper documents a comprehensive code-to-code comparison between Serpent 2, CASMO-5, and STREAM at the lattice level for the different fuel assemblies (FAs) loaded in the Rostov-II core; and between Serpent 2, PARCS, and RAST-K at the core level in 2D. Finally, the 3D results of both deterministic models are compared to the steady state measurements of the Rostov-II benchmark. With respect to the measurements available in the Rostov-II benchmark, comparable accuracy (30 ppm difference in boron concentration, 2% assembly power) with an industrial calculation scheme (BIPR8) are reported up to 36.73 EFPDs. The calculations reported in the paper showed that the modeling of the resonance self-shielding in the lattice code as well as the geometrical modeling of the reflector are key for an accurate solution (reducing the in-out power tilt). At the core simulator level, a fairly crude 1D reflector model appears to be enough. Overall, this paper provides the detailed models and conditions used in STREAM/RAST-K and CASMO-5/PARCS, and accurate calculation solution for the Rostov-II benchmark with STREAM/RAST-K and CASMO-5/PARCS compared with measurement.
Perspectives on the Advancement of Industry 4.0 Technologies Applied to Water Pumping Systems: Trends in Building Pumps
Authors: de Souza Danilo Ferreira , da Guarda Emeli Lalesca Aparecida , da Silva Welitom Ttatom Pereira , Sauer Ildo Luis , Tatizawa Hédio
Published: May 2022

The rational use of energy systems is one of the main discussions in sustainability in the 21st century. Water pumping systems are one of the most significant consumers of electricity in urban systems, whether for urban water supply, sewage, or use in vertical buildings. Thus, this work aims to present Industry 4.0 (I4.0) technologies applied in buildings’ water pumping systems, focusing on energy efficiency, supervision, and control of the pumping system. The work involves four steps: (i) identifying the existing I4.0 technologies and (ii) mapping the possibilities of applying Industry 4.0 technologies in building pumping systems. The study includes the analysis of (16) articles published in journals between 2018 and June 2021 to identify I4.0 technologies cited in the publications. It identified and grouped eighteen (18) technologies based on twenty-two (22) terms observed in the papers. The study classified the identified technologies into three possible applications in a building water pumping system. The applications include: (i) directly applicable, (ii) partially applicable, and (iii) application not yet identified. Therefore, the study presents the advantages of I4.0 technologies developed primarily for the industry sector, also applicable in residential building water pumping systems. These technologies’ benefits include energy efficiency, user control, a reduction from periods of failure of the pumping system (maintenance), water quality, and moving towards Intelligent Pumping or Pumping 4.0.
Metabolite Profiling of Chestnut (Castanea crenata) According to Origin and Harvest Time Using 1H NMR Spectroscopy
Authors: Yu Ja Myung , Nam Miso , Kim Min-Sun
Published: May 2022

Chestnuts are an important food crop commonly used as a food ingredient due to their nutritional properties and potential health benefits. In Korea, chestnuts have been crossbred to develop cultivars with insect resistance and high productivity, producing multiple chestnut varieties. This study classified 17 Castanea crenata cultivars produced in Korea according to origin and harvest time and determined the metabolites in chestnut kernels using 1H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The 17 C. crenata cultivars were divided into four groups based on their geographic origin: Korean native, Korean hybrid, Japanese native, and Japanese hybrid. The cultivars were also divided into three groups depending on their harvest period: early-ripening cultivar, mid-ripening cultivar, and late-ripening cultivar. The partial least squares-discriminant analysis score plot revealed differences among the groups. Identified metabolites, including amino acids, organic acids, and sugars, contributed to discriminating the origin and harvest time of the C. crenata chestnut kernels. Significant differences were observed, mainly in amino acids, which suggests that the composition of amino acids is one factor influenced by both the origin and harvest time of C. crenata. These results are useful to both growers and breeders because they identify the nutritional and metabolic characteristics of each C. crenata cultivar.
Effects of Tea Polyphenol Palmitate Existing in the Oil Phase on the Stability of Myofibrillar Protein O/W Emulsion
Authors: Li Jianchao , Yang Zongyun , Li Zhen , Wu Ling , Shen Juan , Wang Jinhua , Wang Peng
Published: May 2022

This study aimed to explore the effect of adding different concentrations (0, 0.01%, 0.03%, and 0.05% (w/w)) of tea polyphenol palmitate (TPP) in the oil phase on the emulsifying properties of 5 and 10 mg/mL myofibrillar protein (MP). Particle size results revealed that the flocculation of droplets increased as TPP concentration increased and that droplets in 5 mg/mL MP emulsions (25–34 μm) were larger than in 10 mg/mL MP emulsions (14–22 μm). The emulsifying activity index of 5 mg/mL MP emulsions decreased with increasing TPP concentration. The micrographs showed that the droplets of MP emulsions exhibited extensive flocculation at TPP concentrations >0.03%. Compared with 5 mg/mL MP emulsions, 10 mg/mL MP emulsions showed better physical stability and reduced flocculation degree, which coincided with lower delta backscattering intensity (ΔBS) and Turbiscan stability index values. The flow properties of emulsions can be successfully depicted by Ostwald–de Waele models (R2 > 0.99). The concentrations of TPP and protein affect the K values of emulsions (p < 0.05). Altogether, increased protein concentration in the continuous phase could improve emulsion stability by increasing viscosity, offsetting the adverse effects of TPP to a certain extent. This study is expected to promote the rational application of TPP in protein emulsion products of high quality and acceptability.
Thermo-Sensitive mPEG-PA-PLL Hydrogel for Drug Release of Calcitonin
Authors: Cheng Yu-En , Wu I-En , Chen Yi-Chen , Chu I-Ming
Published: May 2022

The oral route is the most popular way of drug administration because of good patient compliance and ease of use. However, the oral delivery of peptides and proteins is difficult, mainly due to poor oral bioavailability. In past decades, researchers have developed several strategies to improve oral bioavailability by avoiding losing activity in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and enhancing the intestinal permeability of these drugs. Methoxy poly(ethylene glycol)-poly(l-alanine) (mPEG-PA) is a thermo-sensitive hydrogel exhibiting a sol-to-gel phase transition property. This characteristic is appropriate for encapsulating peptide or protein drugs. To enhance the adhesion ability to intestinal mucus, a thermo-sensitive polymer, mPEG-PA, modified with charged amino acid lysine was developed. This positively charged material would help to bind the negatively charged mucin in mucus. The synthesis was conducted by individually synthesizing mPEG-PA and poly(l-lysine) (PLL) of different lengths via ring-opening polymerization. Then, mPEG-PA and PLL were combined using an NHS ester reaction to synthesize the triblock copolymer (mPEG-PA-PLL). Biocompatibility and the release of calcitonin from the synthesized hydrogel particles under different pH were examined. The initial data showed that the newly design material had a promising potential for the oral delivery of peptide drugs.