bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Malignant Tumors Misdiagnosed as Liver Hemangiomas
Authors: Yıldırım Murat Baki , Şahiner İbrahim Tayfun , Poyanlı Arzu , Acunaş Bülent , Güllüoǧlu Mine , İbiş Cem , Tekant Yaman , Özden İlgin
Published: August 2021

Background and Aim: To derive lessons from the data of patients who were followed for various periods with the misdiagnosis of liver hemangioma and eventually found to have a malignancy.

Material and Methods: The records of 23 patients treated between 2003 and 2018 were analyzed retrospectively.

Results: Twelve patients were men and 11 were women; median (range) age was 55 (35–80). The principal diagnostic modality for the initial diagnosis was ultrasonography (n:8), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (n:13), and computed tomography (CT) (n:2). At our institution, MRI was performed in 16 patients; the diagnosis was made with the available MRI and CT studies in five and two patients, respectively. In other words, the ultrasonography interpretations were not confirmed on MRI; in others, the MRI or CT examinations were of low quality or they had not been interpreted properly. Fifteen patients underwent surgery; the other patients received chemotherapy (n:6) or chemoembolization (n:2). The misdiagnosis caused a median (range) 10 (0–96) months delay in treatment. The final diagnoses were hepatocellular carcinoma in 12 patients, cholangiocarcinoma in four patients, metastatic mesenchymal tumor, metastasis of colon cancer, metastatic neuroendocrine carcinoma, sarcomatoid hepatocellular carcinoma, angiosarcoma, thoracic wall tumor, and metastatic tumor of unknown primary in one patient each.

Conclusions: High-quality MRI with proper interpretation and judicious follow up are vital for the accurate differential diagnosis of liver lesions.
Isolation and Molecular Characteristics of a CIAV Isolate From Pigeons, China
Authors: Shao Hongxia , Li Jinzhi , Yuan Huisha , Ji Lifei , Zhang Jun , Jin Wenjie , Qian Kun , Ye Jianqiang , Qin Aijian
Published: August 2021

Chicken infectious anemia virus (CIAV) mainly infects chickens and causes immunosuppression. In this study, a CIAV isolate, designated as Pigeon-CIAV-1906, was efficiently isolated from two sick pigeons by inoculating the samples into MSB1 cells. The genome of Pigeon-CIAV-1906 was amplified by PCR and analyzed. The genome size of Pigeon-CIAV-1906 was 2,298 bp with the highest homology (99.5%) to Jilin strain (JL14023) and the lowest homology (91.5%) to Brazil strain (KY024579), which phylogenetically clustered into Group A. Notably, several amino acids such as 139K and 394Q related with high virulence were found in the VP1 of Pigeon-CIAV-1906. The isolation of Pigeon-CIAV-1906 and its molecular characteristics provide evidence for the cross-transmission of CIAV from chicken to pigeon and give novel insights into the molecular epidemiology of CIAV.
Health Profile of Precarious Migrants Attending the Médecins Du Monde’s Health and Social Care Centres in France: a Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Halley Emeraude , Giai Joris , Chappuis Marielle , Tomasino Anne , Henaine Roland , Letrilliart Laurent
Published: August 2021

Objective: The present study aimed to compare the precarious migrants’ health problems managed in Médecins du Monde’s health and social care centres (CASO) with those of patients attending general practice in France.

Methods: We compared the most frequent health problems managed in the 19 CASO in metropolitan France with those of a national sample of usual general practice consultations, after standardisation for age and sex.

Results: Precarious migrants had fewer health problems managed per consultation than other patients (mean: 1.31 vs. 2.16), and these corresponded less frequently to chronic conditions (21.3% vs. 46.8%). The overrepresented health problems among CASO consultations were mainly headache (1.11% vs. 0.45%), viral hepatitis (1.05% vs. 0.20%), type 1 diabetes (1.01% vs. 0.50%) and teeth/gum disease (1.01% vs. 0.23%). Their underrepresented health problems were mainly lipid disorder (0.39% vs. 8.20%), depressive disorder (1.36% vs. 5.28%) and hypothyroidism (0.50% vs. 3.08%). Prevention issues were nominal in precarious migrants (0.16%).

Conclusion: Both chronic somatic and mental conditions of precarious migrants are presumably underdiagnosed. Their screening should be improved in primary care.
Anterior Fontanel Size Among Term Newborns: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Oumer Mohammed , Tazebew Ashenafi , Alemayehu Mekuriaw
Published: August 2021

Background:Anterior fontanel is an integral element of an infant craniofacial system. There are six fontanels in the newborn skull, namely anterior, posterior, two mastoid, and two sphenoid fontanels. The anterior fontanel is the largest, prominent, and most important for clinical evaluation. Sex, race, genetics, gestational age, and region are the principal factors that influence anterior fontanel size. There exist inconclusive findings on the size of anterior fontanel in newborns. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine the pooled mean size of anterior fontanel among term newborns and to identify the pooled mean difference of anterior fontanel size between males and females.

Methods:PubMed/Medline, Google Scholar, Science Direct, JBI Library, embase, and Cochrane Library databases were systematically searched. All essential data were extracted using a standardized data extraction format. The heterogeneity across studies was assessed using the Cochrane Q test statistic, I2test statistic, andp-values. A fixed-effect model and random effect model were used to estimate the pooled mean size of anterior fontanel and the pooled mean difference between male newborns and female newborns, respectively. To deal with heterogeneity, sub-group analysis, meta-regression analysis, and sensitivity analysis were considered. JBI quality appraisal checklist was used to evaluate the quality of studies.

Results:In this meta-analysis, 8, 661 newborns were involved in twenty-six studies. Among studies, 13 conducted in Asia, 7 in Africa, 5 in America, and 1 in Europe. The pooled mean size of anterior fontanel was 2.58 cm (95% CI: 2.31, 2.85 cm). The pooled mean size of anterior fontanel for Asia, Africa, America, and Europe region was 2.49, 3.15, 2.35, and 2.01 cm, respectively. A statistically significant mean difference was detected between male and female newborns (D + L pooled MD = 0.15 cm, 95% CI: 0.02, 0.29 cm).

Conclusion:The pooled estimate of this review does provide the mean value of the anterior fontanel size in the newborns. There was a statistically significant mean fontanel size difference between male and female newborns. Therefore, male newborns had a significantly larger mean size than female newborns.
Transformational Leadership and Turnover Intentions: The Mediating Role of Employee Performance during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Yücel İlhami
Published: August 2021

The purpose of this research paper is to explain the impact of transformational leadership on employees’ turnover intentions in light of the mediating role of their individual performance. More precisely, we attempt to explain (a) how TL connects to employees’ turnover intentions, (b) how TL connects to employee performance, (c) how employee performance connects to turnover intentions, and (d) how employee performance mediates the connection between intentions and TL. Four hundred and seventy-eight Turkish healthcare professionals participated in this research. The results revealed that employee performance mediates the connection between turnover intentions and TL. In other words, transformational leaders encourage employee performance, which in turn decreases their turnover intentions. This research has important implications for reducing turnover in workplaces and increasing employee performance by facilitating a setting for high performance, since employees who are supported by their leaders are generally more committed to their organizations and exhibit better performance. This research answers calls to study the mediating function of the TL procedure, since the mediation clarifies the circumstances under which TL relates to the favorable results.
Precision Control of Spraying Quantity Based on Linear Active Disturbance Rejection Control Method
Authors: Ji Xin , Wang Aichen , Wei Xinhua
Published: August 2021

Current methods to control the spraying quantity present several disadvantages, such as poor precision, a long adjustment time, and serious environmental pollution. In this paper, the flow control valve and the linear active disturbance controller (LADRC) were used to control the spraying quantity. Due to the disturbance characteristics in the spraying pipeline during the actual operation, the total disturbance was observed by a linear extended state observer (LESO). A 12 m commercial boom sprayer was used to carry out practical field operation tests after relevant intelligent transformation. The experimental results showed that the LADRC controller adopted in this paper can significantly suppress the disturbance in practical operation under three different operating speeds. Compared with the traditional proportional–integral–differential controller (PID) and an improved PID controller, the response speed of the proposed controller improved by approximately 3~5 s, and the steady-state error accuracy improved by approximately 2~9%.
Response of Different Potato Genotypes to Drought Stress
Authors: Nasir Muhammad Waqar , Toth Zoltan
Published: August 2021

A pot trial was established to evaluate the response of different potato genotypes to drought stress. Two potato genotypes (Demon and Hopehely) were exposed to two water levels (80% and 50% water holding capacity). The trial was replicated 16 times and 4 replications were harvested at 36 DAS, 54 DAS, 72 DAS, and 90 DAS. The results revealed that drought significantly reduced the growth and plant development of Demon (G1). Hopehely (G2) produced a higher yield in control as well as drought condition. Tuber yield positively correlated with tubers number, and root weight that was significantly higher in Hopehely under both experimental conditions. Hopehely produced a higher number of tubers (18) than Demon whereas Demon produced 11 tubers per plant. Moreover, under drought conditions, the relative water content of leaves and nitrogen content in foliage increased in Hopehely while decreased in Demon. Drought stress caused a 40% reduction in plant height and a 24.3% reduction in the number of leaves in Demon that was significantly higher than the 11% plant height reduction and 9.1% leaf count reduction in Hopehely. It was observed that the morphology of Hopehely (producing dwarf plants, fewer leaves, maintaining water content of leaves, producing more tubers) helped it to be a better drought-tolerant genotype compared to Demon.
Milling and Baking Quality of Spring Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) from Organic Farming
Authors: Feledyn-Szewczyk Beata , Cacak-Pietrzak Grażyna , Lenc Leszek , Gromadzka Karolina , Dziki Dariusz
Published: August 2021

The quality of grain products from organic agriculture is an important subject of research for food safety and consumer health. The aim of the study was to examine the grain of spring wheat from organic agriculture according to their infestation by Fusarium spp., mycotoxin content, and technological value for milling and baking processing. The material was grain of 13 spring wheat varieties cultivated in organic systems in 3 years. The results showed that the intensity of Fusarium head blight (FHB) was low and ranged from 0.0% to 5.5% of ears. Grain infestation by Fusarium spp. varied between varieties and years from 1.5% to 18.5%. The colonization of grains by Fusarium spp. did not reflect the intensity of FHB. The lowest grain infestation by Fusarium spp. was noted for the varieties: Waluta, Zadra, and Arabella. Mycotoxin contamination of the grain of tested varieties did not exceed accepted standards. The requirements of the milling and baking industries were generally met by grain and flour of all the tested varieties. On the basis of the 3 year study results related to food safety and processing properties, the varieties most useful for organic production are Arabella, followed by Brawura, Izera, Kandela, Katoda, KWS Torridon, Waluta, and Zadra.
S-Carvone Formulation Based on Granules of Organoclay to Modulate Its Losses and Phytotoxicity in Soil
Authors: Gámiz Beatriz , Celis Rafael
Published: August 2021

Based on the effects that allelochemicals can exert over organisms, their use as alternatives to synthetic pesticides has been proposed. To this aim, it is important to understand their behavior in soils as allelochemicals can readily dissipate by different routes. In this work, novel granules based on the commercial organoclay Cloisite® 10A were prepared as a new strategy for the possible application of S-carvone as a bioherbicide, overcoming its rapid dissipation in the environment. Batch release, degradation, mobility, and phytotoxicity tests in soil were performed. Until now, the phytotoxicity of organoclay-based formulations of S-carvone in soil has not been studied. The release of S-carvone in water from the granules occurred slowly. There were no differences in the persistence of the allelochemical after its application to soil as a free compound (readily available form) or supported on granules. However, the granulated formulation reduced and delayed the leaching of S-carvone, thus controlling its downward movement in soil columns, as compared to the free S-carvone. Bioassays revealed that S-carvone supported on granules reduced the germination and aerial biomass of Lactuca sativa L. to a greater extent than the free compound. Our results demonstrated that the prepared formulation of S-carvone, based on granules of the commercial organoclay Cloisite® 10A, could be used to control transport losses, such as leaching or volatilization, increasing the bioefficacy of the allelochemical. These findings could inspire further investigations for the preparation of novel formulations of monoterpenes as potential bioherbicides.
Interaction Patterns between Wildlife and Cattle Reveal Opportunities for Mycobacteria Transmission in Farms from North-Eastern Atlantic Iberian Peninsula
Authors: Varela-Castro Lucía , Sevilla Iker A. , Payne Ariane , Gilot-Fromont Emmanuelle , Barral Marta
Published: August 2021

Interactions taking place between sympatric wildlife and livestock may contribute to interspecies transmission of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex or non-tuberculous mycobacteria, leading to the spread of relevant mycobacterioses or to interferences with the diagnosis of tuberculosis. The aim of this study was to characterize the spatiotemporal patterns of interactions between wildlife and cattle in a low bovine tuberculosis prevalence Atlantic region. Camera traps were set during a one-year period in cattle farms with a history of tuberculosis and/or non-tuberculous mycobacterioses. The frequency and duration of wildlife visits, and the number of individuals per visit, were analysed through generalized linear mixed models. The seasons, type of place, type of point, and period of the day were the explanatory variables. A total of 1293 visits were recorded during 2741 days of camera observation. Only 23 visits showed direct contacts with cattle, suggesting that mycobacteria transmission at the wildlife–livestock interface would occur mainly through indirect interactions. Cattle pastures represented the most appropriate habitat for interspecies transmission of mycobacteria, and badgers’ latrines appear to be a potential hotspot for mycobacteria circulation between badgers, wild boars, foxes, and cattle. According to both previous epidemiological information and the interaction patterns observed, wild boars, badgers, foxes, and small rodents are the species or group most often in contact with livestock, and thus may be the most involved in the epidemiology of mycobacterioses in the wildlife–livestock interface in this area.
The Role of Statins on Helicobacter pylori Eradication: Results from the European Registry on the Management of H. pylori (Hp-EuReg)
Authors: Caldas María , Pérez-Aisa Ángeles , Tepes Bojan , Keco-Huerga Alma , Bujanda Luis , Lucendo Alfredo , Rodrigo Luis , Vaira Dino , Fernández-Salazar Luis , Huguet Jose , Pérez-Lasala Jorge , Jurecic Natasa , Fadeenko Galina , Barrio Jesús , Areia Miguel , Ortuño Juan , Pellicano Rinaldo , Leja Marcis , Molina-Infante Javier , Bogomolov Pavel , Alekseenko Sergey , Domínguez-Cajal Manuel , Gómez-Camarero Judith , Ntouli Vassiliki , Martínez-Domínguez Samuel , Ruiz-Zorrilla Rafael , Núñez Oscar , Sarsenbaeva Aiman , Almela Pedro , Phull Perminder , Espada Marta , Puig Ignasi , Nyssen Olga , Mégraud Francis , O’Morain Colm , Gisbert Javier , on behalf of the Hp-EuReg Investigators
Published: August 2021

Statins could increase the effectiveness of Helicobacter pylori eradication therapies due to their anti-inflammatory effect. The aim of this study was to analyze the impact of this therapeutic association in real life. This is a multicenter, prospective, non-interventional study aimed at evaluating the management of H. pylori by European gastroenterologists. Patients were registered in an e-CRF by AEG-REDCap from 2013 to 2020. The association between statin use and H. pylori eradication effectiveness was evaluated through multivariate analysis. Overall, 9988 and 705 patients received empirical and culture-guided treatment, respectively. Overall, statin use was associated with higher effectiveness in the empirical group (OR = 1.3; 95%CI = 1.1–1.5), but no association was found with first-line treatment effectiveness (N = 7738); as an exception, statin use was specifically associated with lower effectiveness of standard triple therapy (OR = 0.76; 95%CI = 0.59–0.99). In the rescue therapy empirical group (N = 2228), statins were associated with higher overall effectiveness (OR = 1.9; 95%CI = 1.4–2.6). However, sub-analyses by treatment schemes only confirmed this association for the single-capsule bismuth quadruple therapy (OR = 2.8; 95%CI = 1.3–5.7). No consistent association was found between statin use and H. pylori therapy effectiveness. Therefore, the addition of statins to the usual H. pylori treatment cannot be currently recommended to improve cure rates.
Astaxanthin Inhibits Autophagic Cell Death Induced by Bisphenol A in Human Dermal Fibroblasts
Authors: Lim Seong-Ryeong , Kim Do-Wan , Sung Junghee , Kim Tae Hoon , Choi Chang-Hyung , Lee Sei-Jung
Published: August 2021

Astaxanthin, a natural antioxidant carotenoid, is a nutrient with diverse health benefits, given that it decreases the risk of oxidative stress-related diseases. In the present study, we investigate the functional role of astaxanthin during autophagic cell death induced by the estrogenic endocrine-disrupting chemical bisphenol A (BPA) in normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDF). BPA significantly induced apoptotic cell death and autophagy in NHDF. Autophagic cell death evoked by BPA was significantly restored upon a treatment with astaxanthin (10 μM) via the inhibition of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Astaxanthin inhibited the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK) stimulated by ROS production, but it did not influence the activation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) in BPA-treated NHDF. Astaxanthin abrogated the ERK-mediated activation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), which is responsible for the mRNA expression of LC3-II, Beclin-1, Atg12, and Atg14 during apoptotic cell death induced by BPA. These results indicate that astaxanthin is a pharmacological and nutritional agent that blocks the skin fibroblastic autophagic cell death induced by BPA in human dermal fibroblasts.
The Interplay of Mitochondrial Oxidative Stress and Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress in Cardiovascular Fibrosis in Obese Rats
Authors: Souza-Neto Francisco V. , Jiménez-González Sara , Delgado-Valero Beatriz , Jurado-López Raquel , Genty Marie , Romero-Miranda Ana , Rodríguez Cristina , Nieto María Luisa , Martínez-Martínez Ernesto , Cachofeiro Victoria
Published: August 2021

We have evaluated the role of mitochondrial oxidative stress and its association with endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress activation in the progression of obesity-related cardiovascular fibrosis. MitoQ (200 µM) was orally administered for 7 weeks to male Wistar rats that were fed a high-fat diet (HFD, 35% fat) or a control diet (CT, 3.5% fat). Obese animals presented cardiovascular fibrosis accompanied by increased levels of extracellular matrix proteins and profibrotic mediators. These alterations were associated with ER stress activation characterized by enhanced levels (in heart and aorta vs. CT group, respectively) of immunoglobulin binding protein (BiP; 2.1-and 2.6-fold, respectively), protein disulfide-isomerase A6 (PDIA6; 1.9-fold) and CCAAT-enhancer-binding homologous protein (CHOP; 1.5- and 1.8-fold, respectively). MitoQ treatment was able to prevent (p < 0.05) these modifications at cardiac and aortic levels. MitoQ (5 nM) and the ER stress inhibitor, 4-phenyl butyric acid (4 µM), were able to block the prooxidant and profibrotic effects of angiotensin II (Ang II, 10−6 M) in cardiac and vascular cells. Therefore, the data show a crosstalk between mitochondrial oxidative stress and ER stress activation, which mediates the development of cardiovascular fibrosis in the context of obesity and in which Ang II can play a relevant role.
Sound-Absorbing Composites with Rubber Crumb from Used Tires
Authors: Smirnova Olga M. , Menéndez Pidal de Navascués Ignacio , Mikhailevskii Vladislav R. , Kolosov Oleg I. , Skolota Nikita S.
Published: August 2021

Traditional sound-absorbing materials have a number of disadvantages: low water resistance, low compressive and tensile strengths, low weather resistance, etc. Therefore, new sound-absorbing materials need to be developed with improved properties including the involvement of industrial byproducts. The influence of the grain-size composition of the rubber crumb from used car tires on the sound insulation of cement and gypsum composites was studied in the paper. The results of the study contribute to the creation of a structural material for the manufacture of sound-absorbing as well as load-bearing structures. The field of application of the developed materials is very extensive.
TickPhone App: A Smartphone Application for Rapid Tick Identification Using Deep Learning
Authors: Xu Zhiheng , Ding Xiong , Yin Kun , Li Ziyue , Smyth Joan A. , Sims Maureen B. , McGinnis Holly A. , Liu Changchun
Published: August 2021

Tick species are considered the second leading vector of human diseases. Different ticks can transmit a variety of pathogens that cause various tick-borne diseases (TBD), such as Lyme disease. Currently, it remains a challenge to diagnose Lyme disease because of its non-specific symptoms. Rapid and accurate identification of tick species plays an important role in predicting potential disease risk for tick-bitten patients, and ensuring timely and effective treatment. Here, we developed, optimized, and tested a smartphone-based deep learning algorithm (termed “TickPhone app”) for tick identification. The deep learning model was trained by more than 2000 tick images and optimized by different parameters, including normal sizes of images, deep learning architectures, image styles, and training–testing dataset distributions. The optimized deep learning model achieved a training accuracy of ~90% and a validation accuracy of ~85%. The TickPhone app was used to identify 31 independent tick species and achieved an accuracy of 95.69%. Such a simple and easy-to-use TickPhone app showed great potential to estimate epidemiology and risk of tick-borne disease, help health care providers better predict potential disease risk for tick-bitten patients, and ultimately enable timely and effective medical treatment for patients.
Neutron-Induced Nuclear Cross-Sections Study for Plasma Facing Materials via Machine Learning: Molybdenum Isotopes
Authors: Hamid Mohamad Amin Bin , Beh Hoe Guan , Oluwatobi Yusuff Afeez , Chew Xiao Yan , Ayub Saba
Published: August 2021

In this work, we apply a machine learning algorithm to the regression analysis of the nuclear cross-section of neutron-induced nuclear reactions of molybdenum isotopes, 92Mo at incident neutron energy around 14 MeV. The machine learning algorithms used in this work are the Random Forest (RF), Gaussian Process Regression (GPR), and Support Vector Machine (SVM). The performance of each algorithm is determined and compared by evaluating the root mean square error (RMSE) and the correlation coefficient (R2). We demonstrate that machine learning can produce a better regression curve of the nuclear cross-section for the neutron-induced nuclear reaction of 92Mo isotopes compared to the simulation results using EMPIRE 3.2 and TALYS 1.9 from the previous literature. From our study, GPR is found to be better compared to RF and SVM algorithms, with R2=1 and RMSE =0.33557. We also employed the crude estimation of property (CEP) as inputs, which consist of simulation nuclear cross-section from TALYS 1.9 and EMPIRE 3.2 nuclear code alongside the experimental data obtained from EXFOR (1 April 2021). Although the Experimental only (EXP) dataset generates a more accurate cross-section, the use of CEP-only data is found to generate an accurate enough regression curve which indicates a potential use in training machine learning models for the nuclear reaction that is unavailable in EXFOR.
A Review on the Some Issues of Multiphase Flow with Self-Driven Particles
Authors: Liu Chen , Lin Jianzhong
Published: August 2021

Multiphase flow with self-driven particles is ubiquitous and complex. Exploring the flow properties has both important academic meaning and engineering value. This review emphasizes some recent studies on multiphase flow with self-driven particles: the hydrodynamic interactions between self-propelled/self-rotary particles and passive particles; the aggregation, phase separation and sedimentation of squirmers; the influence of rheological properties on its motion; and the kinematic characteristics of axisymmetric squirmers. Finally, some open problems, challenges, and future directions are highlighted.
Comparison of Gamma and Neutron Dose Rate Variations with Time for Cast Iron and Metal–Concrete Casks Used for RBMK-1500 Spent Fuel Storage
Authors: Smaizys Arturas , Narkunas Ernestas , Poskas Gintautas , Poskas Povilas
Published: August 2021

The present SF management concept in Lithuania envisages that spent RBMK-1500 fuel will be stored in dry storage containers for 50 years, before being disposed of in a deep geological repository. However, the risk that a deep geological repository will not be constructed at the planned time should be taken into account, and the extension of SF storage over 50 years should be considered. This paper presents a comparison of gamma and neutron dose rate distributions and variations with planned and extended storage times for cast iron and metal–concrete containers loaded with RBMK-1500 SF. All calculations were performed using the SCALE computer codes system. The modeling results show that the overall shielding properties of the CONSTOR® RBMK-1500 container containing the same neutron and gamma sources are better than those of the CASTOR® RBMK-1500 container. During an extended storage period (from 50 to 300 years), the total dose rate would decrease considerably and the dose rate due to neutrons would become dominant for both containers.
Advancements and Research Trends in Microgrids Cybersecurity
Authors: Gaggero Giovanni Battista , Girdinio Paola , Marchese Mario
Published: August 2021

Microgrids are growing in importance in the Smart Grid paradigm for power systems. Microgrid security is becoming crucial since these systems increasingly rely on information and communication technologies. Many technologies have been proposed in the last few years for the protection of industrial control systems, ranging from cryptography, network security, security monitoring systems, and innovative control strategies resilient to cyber-attacks. Still, electrical systems and microgrids present their own peculiarities, and some effort has to be put forth to apply cyber-protection technologies in the electrical sector. In the present work, we discuss the latest advancements and research trends in the field of microgrid cybersecurity in a tutorial form.
Evaluation of the Erosion Characteristics for a Marine Pump Using 3D RANS Simulations
Authors: Alawadhi Khaled , Alzuwayer Bashar , Alrahmani Mosab , Murad Ahmed
Published: August 2021

In the present study, an erosion analysis of an industrial pump’s casing and impeller blades has been performed computationally. Effects of various critical parameters, i.e., the concentration and size of solid particles, exit pressure head, and cavitation on the erosion rate density of the casing and blade have been investigated. Commercial codes CFX, ICEM-CFD, and ANSYS Turbogrid are employed to solve the model, mesh generation for the casing, and mesh generation of the impeller, respectively. The Eulerian-Eulerian method is employed to model the pump domain’s flow to solve the two phases (water and solid particles) and the interaction between the phases. Published experimental data was utilized to validate the employed computational model. Later, a parametric study was conducted to evaluate the effects of the parameters mentioned above on the erosion characteristics of the pump’s casing and impeller’s blade. The results show that the concentration of the solid particles significantly affects the pump’s erosion characteristics, followed by the particle size and distribution of the particle size. On the other hand, the exit pressure head and cavitation do not affect the erosion rates considerably but significantly influence the regions of high erosion rate densities.
Fabrication of Metal-Reinforced Complete Dentures Using the CAD-CAM Technique
Authors: Piao Xing-Yu , Shim June-Sung , Park Ji-Man
Published: August 2021

The digital manufacture of complete dentures would greatly simplify the workflow; however, the metal-reinforced complete dentures production method has not been well established. This article describes a technique of fabricating metal-reinforced complete dentures in a milling machine using the geometry guide, a negative impression of the occlusal surface of the metal-reinforced complete denture designed using the computer-aided design software. The geometry guide supports and stabilizes the artificial teeth and metal framework in the correct position in the surrounding resin. Fabrication of metal-reinforced dental prosthesis using the digital technique is possible with this method.
Characterization of Heat-Polymerized Monomer Formulations for Dental Infiltrated Ceramic Networks
Authors: Tiu Janine , Belli Renan , Lohbauer Ulrich
Published: August 2021

(1) Objectives: This work examined properties of dental monomer formulations of an aromatic dimethacylate (BisGMA), aliphatic urethane dimethacrylate (UDMA), and triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA). The monomers were combined in different ratio formulations and heat-polymerized containing the initiator benzoyl peroxide (BPO) specifically for the purpose of infiltration into polymer-infiltrated composite structures. (2) Methods: The monomers were combined in different weight ratios and underwent rheological analysis (viscosity and temperature dependence), degree of conversion, and mechanical properties (elastic modulus, hardness, fracture toughness). (3) Results: Rheological properties showed Newtonian behavior for monomers with a large dependence on temperature. The addition of BPO allowed for gelation in the range of 72.0–75.9 °C. Degree of conversion was found between 74% and 87% DC, unaffected by an increase of TEGDMA (up to 70 wt%). Elastic modulus, hardness, and fracture toughness were inversely proportional to an increase in TEGDMA. Elastic modulus and hardness were found slightly increased for UDMA versus BisGMA formulations, while fracture toughness ranged between 0.26 and 0.93 MPa·m0.5 for UDMA- and 0.18 and 0.68 MPa·m0.5 for BisGMA-based formulations. (4) Significance: Heat-polymerization allows for greater range of monomer formulations based on viscosity and degree of conversion when selecting for infiltrated composite structures. Therefore, selection should be based on mechanical properties. The measured data for fracture toughness combined with the reduced viscosity at higher UDMA:TEGDMA ratios favor such formulations over BisGMA:TEGDMA mixtures.
Fracture Mechanics—Theory, Modeling and Applications
Authors: Rougier Esteban , Hunter Abigail
Published: August 2021

The field of fracture mechanics was developed during the throes of World War II, and since then, it has been a very active area of research [...]
Self-Organized PT-Symmetry of Exciton-Polariton Condensate in a Double-Well Potential
Authors: Kalozoumis Panayotis A. , Petrosyan David
Published: August 2021

We investigate the dynamics and stationary states of a semiconductor exciton–polariton condensate in a double-well potential. We find that upon the population build-up of the polaritons by above-threshold laser pumping, coherence relaxation due to the phase fluctuations in the polaritons drives the system into a stable fixed point corresponding to a self-organized PT-symmetric phase.
Investigation of Electro-Elastic Properties for LN Single Crystals at Low Temperature
Authors: Chen Feifei , Jiang Chao , Yu Fapeng , Cheng Xiufeng , Zhao Xian
Published: August 2021

Lithium niobate crystals (LiNbO3, LN) are multifunctional crystal materials with many outstanding properties. In this work, the electro-elastic properties of LN single crystals were explored at temperatures from −150 °C to 150 °C. The temperature dependences of dielectric permittivities, elastic compliances, electromechanical coupling factors and piezoelectric coefficients were determined using the impedance method. The LN crystals possessed large dielectric permittivities, the ε11T/ε0 and ε33T/ε0 were 83.2 and 29.4 at room temperature, respectively. The elastic compliances s11, s13, s33 and s44 presented a positive increase as the temperature increased, and the variations were 5.0%, 8.2%, 4.6% and 5.4%, respectively, showing a good temperature stability. Moreover, the temperature dependence of the electromechanical coupling factors and piezoelectric coefficients for different vibration modes were studied with a temperature range from −150 °C to 150 °C, where the thickness shear vibration mode d15 presented a large piezoelectric response and minimal temperature variation.
Preference and Demand for Digital Pathology and Computer-Aided Diagnosis among Korean Pathologists: A Survey Study Focused on Prostate Needle Biopsy
Authors: Nam Soo Jeong , Chong Yosep , Jung Chan Kwon , Kwak Tae-Yeong , Lee Ji Youl , Park Jihwan , Rho Mi Jung , Go Heounjeong
Published: August 2021

Digital pathology systems (DPSs) have been globally implemented, and computer-assisted diagnosis (CAD) software has been actively developed in recent years. This study aimed to investigate perceptions of digital pathology and the demand for CAD. An online survey involving members of the Korean Society of Pathologists was conducted, and a demonstration clip of the diagnostic assistant software for a prostate needle biopsy was shown to them to provide a simple experience with CAD. One hundred sixty-four Korean pathologists (13.6% of 1210 Korean pathologists) participated. The majority (77.4%) answered affirmatively regarding the necessity of implementing a DPS, and 26.8% had plans to implement or increase the use of DPSs in the following 2–3 years at their medical institutions. Pathologists felt that multidisciplinary care or conference accessibility (56.7%), remote consultation (49.4%), and big data building (32.9%) were useful parts of DPSs. Most pathologists (81.7%) responded that CAD software would assist with the diagnostic process. In a prostate needle biopsy, pathologists used the software to improve the measurement of tumor volume and/or length and core length but not to suggest a diagnostic name or Gleason grade. Korean pathologists who participated in the survey had highly positive perceptions of digital pathology and maintained a positive attitude toward the use of CAD software.
Seismic Performance of Full-Scale Reinforced Concrete Frames Retrofitted with Bolted Concrete-Filled Steel Tubes
Authors: Ro Kyong Min , Kim Min Sook , Hwang Dae-Sung , Lee Young Hak
Published: August 2021

The effective retrofit strategy of non-seismic designed structures is required to improve the strength and ductility. Jacketing is the most typical method which can enhance seismic resistance capacity, but there are many disadvantages due to its enlarged jacket section. This study developed a non-welded concrete-filled steel tube system (NoWS) which was installed using bolts in the form of tube-type steel-encased beams and columns; the NoWS could increase the capacity of seismic resistance strength and the ductility of members. One reinforced concrete (RC) frame specimen with non-seismic details and one NoWS were manufactured, and cyclic loading tests were conducted until critical failure was observed in the column after reaching maximum load. As experimental results, the specimen retrofitted with NoWS had excellent seismic performance, showing resistance to lateral load, effective stiffnesses, and energy dissipation capacity approximately 2–3 times greater than the results of an RC frame specimen.
Characterization of Five Portuguese Wastewater Treatment Plants: Removal Efficiency of Pharmaceutical Active Compounds through Conventional Treatment Processes and Environmental Risk
Authors: Silva Sofia , Cardoso Vitor Vale , Duarte Lúcia , Carneiro Rui Neves , Almeida Cristina Maria Martins
Published: August 2021

Due to the high consumption and incorrect disposal of pharmaceutical active compounds (PhACs), they are recognized as contaminants of emerging concern. Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) may be inefficient in removing PhACs, therefore discharging them into surface waters. The removal efficiencies of five WWTPs located in the south of Portugal (Alentejo) were evaluated in 2020. Twenty-six PhACs were analyzed in wastewater influents, effluents, and surface waters, upstream and downstream of the WWTPs by solid-phase extraction (SPE) and ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass detection (UPLC-MS/MS). The most representative PhACs in influents were acetaminophen, caffeine, naproxen, ibuprofen, and diclofenac with minimum-maximum concentrations of 49–225 µg/L, 26–46 µg/L, 5.9–13 µg/L, 5.2–22 µg/L, and 1.3–2.5 µg/L, respectively. For effluents, it was acetaminophen, caffeine, and diclofenac with minimum-maximum concentrations of 0.054–7.8 µg/L, 0.084–4.8 µg/L, and 0.28–3.3 µg/L, respectively. The highest removal efficiencies were observed for acetaminophen, sulfadiazine, cortisone, testosterone, metoprolol, and propranolol (100%). The lowest removal efficiencies were observed for carbamazepine (2.7%) and diclofenac (−13.2%). The risk quotient of sulfamethoxazole and diclofenac were higher than 1 for receiving waters, indicating they probably pose high risks to aquatic organisms.
Levels, Sources, and Health Damage of Dust in Grain Transportation and Storage: A Case Study of Chinese Grain Storage Companies
Authors: Cui Pengcheng , Zhang Tao , Chen Xin , Yang Xiaoyi
Published: August 2021

A large amount of mixed dust exists in grain, which can easily stimulate the respiratory system and cause diseases. This study explored contamination levels and health effects of this grain dust. A total of 616 dust samples from different stages and types of grain were collected in China—in Hefei (Anhui), Shenzhen (Guangdong), Chengdu (Sichuan), Changchun (Jilin), and Shunyi (Beijing)—and analyzed using the filter membrane method and a laser particle size analyzer. A probabilistic risk assessment model was developed to explore the health effects of grain dust on workers in the grain storage industry based on the United States Environmental Protection Agency risk assessment model and the Monte Carlo simulation method. Sensitivity analysis methods were used to analyze the various exposure parameters and influencing factors that affect the health risk assessment results. This assessment model was applied to translate health risks into disability-adjusted life years (DALY). The results revealed that the concentration of dust ranged from 25 to 70 mg/m3, which followed normal distribution and the proportion of dust with a particle size of less than 10 μm exceeded 10%. Workers in the transporting stage were exposed to the largest health risk, which followed a lognormal distribution. The average health risks for workers in the entering and exiting zones were slightly below 2.5 × 10−5. The sensitivity analysis indicated that average time, exposure duration, inhalation rate, and dust concentration made great contributions to dust health risk. Workers in the grain storage and transportation stage had the health damage, and the average DALY exceeded 0.4 years.
The Influence of Typhoon “MITAG” on Waves and Currents in Zhoushan Sea Area, China
Authors: Niu Yuqian , Guo Biyun , Subrahmanyam Mantravadi Venkata , Xue Bin , Ye Yun
Published: August 2021

Typhoon “MITAG” was generated at the end of September 2019 and landed briefly in Zhoushan on October 1. Based on reanalysis data provided by ERA5 and NCEP, this paper analyzes the characteristics of wave and current during “MITAG”. The variation rule of waves and currents in different periods during the influence of “MITAG” was found. The results are as follows: The variation of significant wave height and mean wave period is related to its waveform. The single waveform has a long wave period and the correlation between wave height and wave period reaches 0.87 during the wind wave period. The wave period of the mixed waveform is shorter. The Ekman pumping of the ocean by “MITAG” is concentrated on the right side of the typhoon path when it is away from land; however, Ekman pumping is on the land side when the typhoon is close to the land. The sea surface height of the coastal sea area changes regularly with the distance of “MITAG”. The area which has a strong current is consistent with higher wave height.
WinBEST-KIT: Biochemical Reaction Simulator for Analyzing Multi-Layered Metabolic Pathways
Authors: Sekiguchi Tatsuya , Hamada Hiroyuki , Okamoto Masahiro
Published: August 2021

We previously developed the biochemical reaction simulator WinBEST-KIT. In recent years, research interest has shifted from analysis of individual biochemical reactions to analysis of metabolic pathways as systems. These large-scale and complicated metabolic pathways can be considered as characteristic multi-layered structures, which, for convenience, are separated from whole biological systems according to their specific roles. These pathways include reactants having the same name but with unique stoichiometric coefficients arranged across many different places and connected between arbitrary layers. Accordingly, in this study, we have developed a new version of WinBEST-KIT that allows users (1) to utilize shortcut symbols that can be arranged with multiple reactants having the same name but with unique stoichiometric coefficients, thereby providing a layout that is similar to metabolic pathways depicted in biochemical textbooks; (2) to create layers that divide large-scale and complicated metabolic pathways according to their specific roles; (3) to connect the layers by using shortcut symbols; and (4) to analyze the interactions between these layers. These new and existing features allow users to create and analyze such multi-layered metabolic pathways efficiently. Furthermore, WinBEST-KIT supports SBML, making it possible for users to utilize these new and existing features to create and publish SBML models.
Sex-Dependent Signatures, Time Frames and Longitudinal Fine-Tuning of the Marble Burying Test in Normal and AD-Pathological Aging Mice
Authors: Santana-Santana Mikel , Bayascas José-Ramón , Giménez-Llort Lydia
Published: August 2021

The marble burying (MB) test, a classical test based on the natural tendency of rodents to dig in diverse substrates and to bury small objects, is sensitive to some intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Here, under emerging neuroethological quantitative and qualitative analysis, the MB performance of 12-month-old male and female 3xTg-AD mice for Alzheimer’s disease and age-matched counterparts of gold-standard C57BL6 strain with normal aging unveiled sex-dependent signatures. In addition, three temporal analyses, through the (1) time course of the performance, and (2) a repeated test schedule, identified the optimal time frames and schedules to detect sex- and genotype-dependent differences. Besides, a (3) longitudinal design from 12 to 16 months of age monitored the changes in the performance with aging, worsening in AD-mice, and modulation through the repeated test. In summary, the present results allow us to conclude that (1) the marble burying test is responsive to genotype, sex, aging, and its interactions; (2) the male sex was more sensitive to showing the AD-phenotype; (3) longitudinal assessment shows a reduction in females with AD pathology; (4) burying remains stable in repeated testing; (5) the time-course of marbles burying is useful; and (6) burying behavior most likely represents perseverative and/or stereotyped-like behavior rather than anxiety-like behavior in 3xTg-AD mice.
UPF1: From mRNA Surveillance to Protein Quality Control
Authors: Hwang Hyun Jung , Park Yeonkyoung , Kim Yoon Ki
Published: August 2021

Selective recognition and removal of faulty transcripts and misfolded polypeptides are crucial for cell viability. In eukaryotic cells, nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD) constitutes an mRNA surveillance pathway for sensing and degrading aberrant transcripts harboring premature termination codons (PTCs). NMD functions also as a post-transcriptional gene regulatory mechanism by downregulating naturally occurring mRNAs. As NMD is activated only after a ribosome reaches a PTC, PTC-containing mRNAs inevitably produce truncated and potentially misfolded polypeptides as byproducts. To cope with the emergence of misfolded polypeptides, eukaryotic cells have evolved sophisticated mechanisms such as chaperone-mediated protein refolding, rapid degradation of misfolded polypeptides through the ubiquitin–proteasome system, and sequestration of misfolded polypeptides to the aggresome for autophagy-mediated degradation. In this review, we discuss how UPF1, a key NMD factor, contributes to the selective removal of faulty transcripts via NMD at the molecular level. We then highlight recent advances on UPF1-mediated communication between mRNA surveillance and protein quality control.
VEGF Detection via Simplified FLISA Using a 3D Microfluidic Disk Platform
Authors: Kang Dong Hee , Kim Na Kyong , Park Sang-Woo , Kang Hyun Wook
Published: August 2021

Fluorescence-linked immunosorbent assay (FLISA) is a commonly used, quantitative technique for detecting biochemical changes based on antigen–antibody binding reactions using a well-plate platform. As the manufacturing technology of microfluidic system evolves, FLISA can be implemented onto microfluidic disk platforms which allows the detection of trace biochemical reactions with high resolutions. Herein, we propose a novel microfluidic system comprising a disk with a three-dimensional incubation chamber, which can reduce the amount of the reagents to 1/10 and the required time for the entire process to less than an hour. The incubation process achieves an antigen–antibody binding reaction as well as the binding of fluorogenic substrates to target proteins. The FLISA protocol in the 3D incubation chamber necessitates performing the antibody-conjugated microbeads’ movement during each step in order to ensure sufficient binding reactions. Vascular endothelial growth factor as concentration with ng mL−1 is detected sequentially using a benchtop process employing this 3D microfluidic disk. The 3D microfluidic disk works without requiring manual intervention or additional procedures for liquid control. During the incubation process, microbead movement is controlled by centrifugal force from the rotating disk and the sedimentation by gravitational force at the tilted floor of the chamber.