bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recent Advances and Challenges in Nanodelivery Systems for Antimicrobial Peptides (AMPs)
Authors: Tang Ziyan , Ma Quantao , Chen Xiaoling , Chen Tianbao , Ying Yuan , Xi Xinping , Wang Lei , Ma Chengbang , Shaw Chris , Zhou Mei
Published: August 2021

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) can be used as alternative therapeutic agents to traditional antibiotics. These peptides have abundant natural template sources and can be isolated from animals, plants, and microorganisms. They are amphiphilic and mostly net positively charged, and they have a broad-spectrum inhibitory effect on bacteria, fungi, and viruses. AMPs possess significant rapid killing effects and do not interact with specific receptors on bacterial surfaces. As a result, drug resistance is rarely observed with treatments. AMPs, however, have some operational problems, such as a susceptibility to enzymatic (protease) degradation, toxicity in vivo, and unclear pharmacokinetics. However, nanodelivery systems loaded with AMPs provide a safe mechanism of packaging such peptides before they exert their antimicrobial actions, facilitate targeted delivery to the sites of infection, and control the release rate of peptides and reduce their toxic side effects. However, nanodelivery systems using AMPs are at an early stage of development and are still in the laboratory phase of development. There are also some challenges in incorporating AMPs into nanodelivery systems. Herein, an insight into the nanotechnology challenges in delivering AMPs, current advances, and remaining technological challenges are discussed in depth.
Framing the Drivers of Antimicrobial Resistance in Tanzania
Authors: Durrance-Bagale Anna , Jung Anne-Sophie , Frumence Gasto , Mboera Leonard , Mshana Stephen E. , Sindato Calvin , Clark Taane G. , Matee Mecky , Legido-Quigley Helena
Published: August 2021

Despite global awareness of the key factors surrounding antimicrobial resistance (AMR), designing and implementing policies to address the critical issues around the drivers of AMR remains complex to put into practice. We identified prevalent narratives and framing used by epistemological communities involved in the response to AMR in Tanzania, interrogated how this framing may inform policymaking, and identified interventions that could be tailored to the groups believed responsible for AMR. We interviewed 114 key informants from three districts and analysed transcripts line by line. Our results suggest that many different groups help drive the spread of AMR in Tanzania and need to be involved in any effective response. Human health is currently perceived as driving the response, while other domains lag behind in their efforts. For AMR programmes to be successful, all sectors need to be involved, including civil society groups, community representatives, and those working in communities (e.g., primary care physicians). However, current plans and programmes largely fail to include these viewpoints. The perceived presence of political will in Tanzania is a significant step towards such a response. Any strategies to tackle AMR need to be tailored to the context-specific realities, taking into account constraints, beliefs, and power dynamics within countries.
Pharmacokinetic/Pharmacodynamic Adequacy of Novel β-Lactam/β-Lactamase Inhibitors against Gram-Negative Bacterial in Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Han Ruiying , Sun Dan , Li Sihan , Chen Jiaojiao , Teng Mengmeng , Yang Bo , Dong Yalin , Wang Taotao
Published: August 2021

The optimal regimens of novel β-lactam/β-lactamase inhibitors (BLBLIs), ceftazidime/avibactam, ceftolozane/tazobactam, and meropenem/vaborbactam, are not well defined in critically ill patients. This study was conducted to identify optimal regimens of BLBLIs in these patients. A Monte Carlo simulation was performed using the published data to calculate the joint probability of target attainment (PTA) and the cumulative fraction of response (CFR). For the target of β-lactam of 100% time with free drug concentration remains above minimal inhibitory concentrations, the PTAs of BLBLIs standard regimens were <90% at a clinical breakpoint for Enterobacteriaceae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. For ceftazidime/avibactam, 2000 mg/500 mg/8 h by 4 h infusion achieved >90% CFR for Escherichia coli; even for 4000 mg/1000 mg/6 h by continuous infusion, CFR for Klebsiella pneumoniae was <90%; the CFRs of 3500 mg/875 mg/6 h by 4 h infusion and 4000 mg/1000 mg/8 h by continuous infusion were appropriate for Pseudomonas aeruginosa. For ceftolozane/tazobactam, the CFR of standard regimen was >90% for Escherichia coli, however, 2000 mg/1000 mg/6 h by continuous infusion achieved <90% CFRs for Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. For meropenem/vaborbactam, standard regimen achieved optimal attainments for Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae; 2000 mg/2000 mg/6 h by 5 h infusion, 2500 mg /2500 mg/6 h by 4 h infusion, 3000 mg/3000 mg/6 h by 3 h infusion and 4000 mg/4000 mg/8 h by 5 h infusion achieved >90% CFRs for Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The CFRs of three BLBLIs were similar for Escherichia coli, but meropenem/vaborbactam were superior for Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
High Therapeutic and Esthetic Properties of Extracellular Vesicles Produced from the Stem Cells and Their Spheroids Cultured from Ocular Surgery-Derived Waste Orbicularis Oculi Muscle Tissues
Authors: Lim Kyung Min , Dayem Ahmed Abdal , Choi Yujin , Lee Yoonjoo , An Jongyub , Gil Minchan , Lee Soobin , Kwak Hee Jeong , Vellingirl Balachandar , Shin Hyun Jin , Cho Ssang-Goo
Published: August 2021

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are paracrine factors that mediate stem cell therapeutics. We aimed at evaluating the possible therapeutic and esthetic applications of EVs prepared from the waste human facial tissue-derived orbicularis oculi muscle stem cells (OOM-SCs). OOM-SCs were isolated from the ocular tissues (from elders and youngsters) after upper eyelid blepharoplasty or epiblepharon surgeries. EVs were prepared from the OOM-SCs (OOM-SC-EVs) and their three-dimensional spheroids. OOM-SCs showed a spindle-like morphology with trilineage differentiation capacity, positive expression of CD105, CD 90, and CD73, and negative expression of CD45 and CD34, and their stem cell properties were compared with other adult mesenchymal stem cells. OOM-SC-EVs showed a high inhibitory effect on melanin synthesis in B16F10 cells by blocking tyrosinase activity. OOM-SC-EVs treatment led to a significant attenuation of senescence-associated changes, a decrease in reactive oxygen species generation, and an upregulation of antioxidant genes. We demonstrated the regeneration activity of OOM-SC-EVs in in vitro wound healing of normal human dermal fibroblasts and upregulation of anti-wrinkle-related genes and confirmed the therapeutic potential of OOM-SC-EVs in the healing of the in vivo wound model. Our study provides promising therapeutic and esthetic applications of OOM-SC-EVs, which can be obtained from the ocular surgery-derived waste human facial tissues.
Statins’ Regulation of the Virulence Factors of Helicobacter pylori and the Production of ROS May Inhibit the Development of Gastric Cancer
Authors: Lin Ting-Yu , Lan Wen-Hsi , Chiu Ya-Fang , Feng Chun-Lung , Chiu Cheng-Hsun , Kuo Chia-Jung , Lai Chih-Ho
Published: August 2021

Conventionally, statins are used to treat high cholesterol levels. They exhibit pleiotropic effects, such as the prevention of cardiovascular disease and decreased cancer mortality. Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common cancers, ranking as the third leading global cause of cancer-related deaths, and is mainly attributed to chronic Helicobacter pylori infection. During their co-evolution with hosts, H. pylori has developed the ability to use the cellular components of the host to evade the immune system and multiply in intracellular niches. Certain H. pylori virulence factors, including cytotoxin-associated gene A (CagA), vacuolating cytotoxin A (VacA), and cholesterol-α-glucosyltransferase (CGT), have been shown to exploit host cholesterol during pathogenesis. Therefore, using statins to antagonize cholesterol synthesis might prove to be an ideal strategy for reducing the occurrence of H. pylori-related GC. This review discusses the current understanding of the interplay of H. pylori virulence factors with cholesterol and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, which may prove to be novel therapeutic targets for the development of effective treatment strategies against H. pylori-associated GC. We also summarize the findings of several clinical studies on the association between statin therapy and the development of GC, especially in terms of cancer risk and mortality.
Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Bischofia javanica (Blume) Leaf Methanol Extracts through the Regulation of Nrf2 and TAK1
Authors: Lee Sewoong , Ha Jain , Park Jiyoung , Kang Eunjeong , Jeon Sung-Hyun , Han Sang Beom , Ningsih Sri , Paik Jin Hyub , Cho Sayeon
Published: August 2021

Bischofia javanica (Blume) has been traditionally used to treat inflammatory diseases such as tonsillitis and ulcers throughout Asia, including China, Indonesia, and the Philippines: however, the molecular mechanisms by which B. javanica exerts its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties remain largely unknown. In this study, we analyzed the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms of methanol extracts of B. javanica leaves (MBJ) in vitro and in vivo. MBJ decreased nitric oxide (NO) production and the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α, in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated RAW 264.7 cells. The observed suppression of inflammatory responses by MBJ was correlated with an inhibition of the nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways. Additionally, MBJ induced nuclear translocation of the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), a transcription factor that upregulates the expression of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant genes. Furthermore, MBJ exhibited antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in an acute hepatitis mouse model. In conclusion, our results confirm the medicinal properties of B. javanica, and therefore MBJ could be applied to improve inflammatory and redox imbalances in different types of pathologies.
Artificial Intelligence for Prediction of Physical and Mechanical Properties of Stabilized Soil for Affordable Housing
Authors: Taffese Woubishet Zewdu , Abegaz Kassahun Admassu
Published: August 2021

Soil stabilization is the alteration of physicomechanical properties of soils to meet specific engineering requirements of problematic soils. Laboratory examination of soils is well recognized as appropriate for examining the engineering properties of stabilized soils; however, they are labor-intensive, time-consuming, and expensive. In this work, four artificial intelligence based models (OMC-EM, MDD-EM, UCS-EM+, and UCS-EM−) to predict the optimum moisture content (OMC), maximum dry density (MDD), and unconfined compressive strength (UCS) are developed. Experimental data covering a wide range of stabilized soils were collected from previously published works. The OMC-EM, MDD-EM, and UCS-EM− models employed seven features that describe the proportion and types of stabilized soils, Atterberg limits, and classification groups of soils. The UCS-EM+ model, besides the seven features, employs two more features describing the compaction properties (OMC and MDD). An optimizable ensemble method is used to fit the data. The model evaluation confirms that the developed three models (OMC-EM, MDD-EM, and UCS-EM+) perform reasonably well. The weak performance of UCS-EM− model validates that the features OMC and MDD have substantial significance in predicting the UCS. The performance comparison of all the developed ensemble models with the artificial neural network ones confirmed the prediction superiority of the ensemble models.
About the Use of Generalized Forms of Derivatives in the Study of Electromagnetic Problems
Authors: Antonini Giulio , Dattoli Giuseppe , Frezza Fabrizio , Licciardi Silvia , Loreto Fabrizio
Published: August 2021

The use of non-local operators, defining Riemann–Liouville or Caputo derivatives, is a very useful tool to study problems involving non-conventional diffusion problems. The case of electric circuits, ruled by non-integer derivatives or capacitors with fractional dielectric permittivity, is a fairly natural frame of relevant applications. We use techniques, involving generalized exponential operators, to obtain suitable solutions for this type of problems and eventually discuss specific problems in applications.
Strategies for Extracting Damage Induced AE Signals from Different Type Noise-Like Backgrounds for Carbon-Fibre Reinforced Polymers
Authors: Panteleev Ivan , Prokhorov Aleksander , Plekhov Oleg
Published: August 2021

This paper presents an algorithm for isolating a useful acoustic signal (corresponding to damage accumulation) against the background of a signal used to model the performance of an industrial rotary equipment. Acoustic emission signals induced by deformation and fracture were studied using a uniaxial tensile test on woven laminate samples cut along the fiber and weft directions. The background signal is a random composition of acoustic pulses used to model the performance of an industrial rotary equipment. A comparison of useful and noise signals enables us to develop two algorithms based on frequency filtering of a signal and its decomposition into empirical modes. These algorithms can be used to isolate useful AE pulses against the background of all signal intensities under consideration.
Non-Surgical Touch-Up with Hyaluronic Acid Fillers Following Facial Reconstructive Surgery
Authors: Chirico Fabrizio , Colella Giuseppe , Cortese Antonio , Bove Pierfrancesco , Fragola Romolo , Rugge Luigi , Audino Giovanni , Sgaramella Nicola , Tartaro Gianpaolo
Published: August 2021

The use of hyaluronic acid (HA) injectable fillers has become increasingly widespread in facial recontouring and rejuvenation. We report our experiences to emphasize the role of HA fillers as tools beyond aesthetic treatments in cases of post-surgical facial sequelae. HA fillers are generally used for aesthetic rejuvenation, but one potential new horizon could be their application in trauma, reconstructive, and craniofacial surgery. This study was conducted retrospectively, evaluating medical reports of patients treated at the Maxillofacial Surgery Unit, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, for lip incompetence, trauma, oncological, reconstructive, and craniosynostosis surgery sequelae. Visual analog scale (VAS) evaluation was performed to assess patient satisfaction. No major complications (i.e., impending necrosis or visual loss) were reported. Bruising and swelling was reported for 48 h after lip injection. At the immediate VAS evaluation, 67% of the patients were “extremely satisfied” and 33% “satisfied”. In those 33%, VAS scores changed to “extremely satisfied” at 6–9 weeks and 3–6 months of VAS evaluation (contextually to improvement in tissue flexibility, elasticity, and aesthetic appearance). Results indicate that this minimally invasive approach achieves a high level of aesthetic enhancement, improving patient satisfaction. The concept of HA filler applications could be a frontier that may be applicable to other areas of reconstructive facial plastic surgery.
Algorithm for the Conformal 3D Printing on Non-Planar Tessellated Surfaces: Applicability in Patterns and Lattices
Authors: Rodriguez-Padilla Consuelo , Cuan-Urquizo Enrique , Roman-Flores Armando , Gordillo José L. , Vázquez-Hurtado Carlos
Published: August 2021

In contrast to the traditional 3D printing process, where material is deposited layer-by-layer on horizontal flat surfaces, conformal 3D printing enables users to create structures on non-planar surfaces for different and innovative applications. Translating a 2D pattern to any arbitrary non-planar surface, such as a tessellated one, is challenging because the available software for printing is limited to planar slicing. The present research outlines an easy-to-use mathematical algorithm to project a printing trajectory as a sequence of points through a vector-defined direction on any triangle-tessellated non-planar surface. The algorithm processes the ordered points of the 2D version of the printing trajectory, the tessellated STL files of the target surface, and the projection direction. It then generates the new trajectory lying on the target surface with the G-code instructions for the printer. As a proof of concept, several examples are presented, including a Hilbert curve and lattices printed on curved surfaces, using a conventional fused filament fabrication machine. The algorithm’s effectiveness is further demonstrated by translating a printing trajectory to an analytical surface. The surface is tessellated and fed to the algorithm as an input to compare the results, demonstrating that the error depends on the resolution of the tessellated surface rather than on the algorithm itself.
3D-Kernel Based Imaging of an Improved Estimation of (Qc) in the Northern Apulia (Southern Italy)
Authors: Filippucci Marilena , Lucente Salvatore , Del Pezzo Edoardo , de Lorenzo Salvatore , Prosser Giacomo , Tallarico Andrea
Published: August 2021

We investigate crustal seismic attenuation by the coda quality parameter (Qc) in the Gargano area (Southern Italy), using a recently released dataset composed of 191 small earthquakes (1.0 ≤ ML ≤ 2.8) recorded by the local OTRIONS and the Italian INGV seismic networks, over three years of seismic monitoring. Following the single back-scattering theoretical assumption, Qc was computed using different frequencies (in the range of 2–16 Hz) and different lapse times (from 10 to 40 s). The trend of Qc vs. frequency is the same as that observed in the adjacent Umbria-Marche region. Qc at 1 Hz varies between 11 and 63, indicating that the area is characterized by active tectonics, despite the absence of high-magnitude earthquakes in recent decades. The 3D mapping procedure, based on sensitivity kernels, revealed that the Gargano Promontory is characterized by very low and homogeneous Qc at low frequencies, and by high and heterogeneous Qc at high frequencies. The lateral variations of Qc at 12 Hz follow the trend of the Moho in this region and are in good agreement with other geophysical observations.
Model-Predictive-Control-Based Time-Optimal Trajectory Planning of the Distributed Actuation Mechanism Augmented by the Maximum Performance Evaluation
Authors: Kim Jong Ho , Choi Kyunghwan , Jang In Gwun
Published: August 2021

Trajectory planning for a redundant manipulator is a classic problem. However, because it is difficult to precisely evaluate its maximum performance, an optimization method has been typically used. In this study, a novel time-optimal trajectory planning method for a redundant manipulator is proposed using the model predictive control (MPC) augmented by the maximum performance evaluation (MPE). First, the optimization formulation is expressed to evaluate the maximum performance of the distributed-actuation-mechanism-based three-revolute-joint manipulator (DAM-3R), which has a high level of redundancy, and the joint-actuation-mechanism-based three-revolute-joint manipulator (JAM-3R) for comparison. The optimization is conducted by linking the multibody dynamics analysis module and the optimization module. For time-optimal trajectory planning, the MPC problem is then formulated using mathematical performance models for the DAM-3R and JAM-3R based on the MPE results, which are considered as the upper bound of the manipulator performance at each end-effector position. To verify the proposed method, a point-to-point task with no predefined path is investigated. The simulation results show that the working time of the DAM-3R is 19.1% less than that of the JAM-3R. Moreover, the energy consumption for the DAM-3R is 45.0% lower than that for the JAM-3R by optimally utilizing the higher redundancy of the DAM-3R. Thus, it can be concluded that the proposed method is effective for time-optimal trajectory planning for redundant manipulators.
An ARCore-Based Augmented Reality Campus Navigation System
Authors: Lu Fangfang , Zhou Hao , Guo Lingling , Chen Jingjing , Pei Licheng
Published: August 2021

Currently, the route planning functions in 2D/3D campus navigation systems in the market are unable to process indoor and outdoor localization information simultaneously, and the UI experiences are not optimal because they are limited by the service platforms. An ARCore-based augmented reality campus navigation system is designed in this paper in order to solve the relevant problems. Firstly, the proposed campus navigation system uses ARCore to enhance reality by presenting 3D information in real scenes. Secondly, a visual inertial ranging algorithm is proposed for real-time locating and map generating in mobile devices. Finally, rich Unity3D scripts are designed in order to enhance users’ autonomy and enjoyment during navigation experience. In this paper, indoor navigation and outdoor navigation experiments are carried out at the Lingang campus of Shanghai University of Electric Power. Compared with the AR outdoor navigation system of Gaode, the proposed AR system can achieve increased precise outdoor localization by deploying the visual inertia odometer on the mobile phone and realizes the augmented reality function of 3D information and real scene, thus enriching the user’s interactive experience. Furthermore, four groups of students have been selected for system testing and evaluation. Compared with traditional systems, such as Gaode map or Internet media, experimental results show that our system could facilitate the effectiveness and usability of learning on campus.
On the Effect of Friction on Tibiofemoral Joint Kinematics
Authors: Askari Ehsan , Andersen Michael S.
Published: August 2021

The effect of friction on nonlinear dynamics and vibration of total knee arthroplasties is yet to be investigated and understood. This research work aims at studying the influence of friction on nonlinear dynamics, friction-induced vibration, and damage of tibiofemoral joints. For this purpose, a spatial dynamic knee model is developed using an asymmetric nonlinear elastic model accounting for knee joint ligaments and a penalty contact model to compute normal contact stresses in the joint while contact detection is treated such that the associated computational time is reduced. Several friction models are considered and embedded in the dynamic model to estimate tangential friction forces in the knee joint. External loads and moments, due to the presence of all soft tissues, e.g., muscles and hip-joint reaction forces, applied to the femoral bone are determined using a musculoskeletal approach. In the post-processing stage, damage, i.e., wear and creep, are estimated using three wear models and an empirical creep formulation, respectively. In addition, a FFT analysis is performed to evaluate likely friction-induced vibration of tibiofemoral joints. Mesh density analysis is performed and the methodology is assessed against outcomes available in the literature. It can be concluded that friction influences not only the tribology, but also dynamics of the knee joint, and friction-induced vibration is likely to take place when the friction coefficient increases.
A Review on Security of Smart Farming and Precision Agriculture: Security Aspects, Attacks, Threats and Countermeasures
Authors: Yazdinejad Abbas , Zolfaghari Behrouz , Azmoodeh Amin , Dehghantanha Ali , Karimipour Hadis , Fraser Evan , Green Arthur G. , Russell Conor , Duncan Emily
Published: August 2021

In recent years, Smart Farming (SF) and Precision Agriculture (PA) have attracted attention from both the agriculture industry as well as the research community. Altogether, SF and PA aim to help farmers use inputs (such as fertilizers and pesticides) more efficiently through using Internet of Things (IoT) devices, but in doing so, they create new security threats that can defeat this purpose in the absence of adequate awareness and proper countermeasures. A survey on different security-related challenges is required to raise awareness and pave they way for further research in this area. In this paper, we first itemize the security aspects of SF and PA. Next, we review the types of cyber attacks that can violate each of these aspects. Accordingly, we present a taxonomy on cyber-threats to SF and PA on the basis of their relations to different stages of Cyber-Kill Chain (CKC). Among cyber-threats, we choose Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs) for further study. Finally, we studied related risk mitigation strategies and countermeasure, and developed a future road map for further study in this area. This paper’s main contribution is a categorization of security threats within the SF/PA areas and provide a taxonomy of security threats for SF environments so that we may detect the behavior of APT attacks and any other security threat in SF and PA environments.
Improved Ensemble Learning for Wind Turbine Main Bearing Fault Diagnosis
Authors: Beretta Mattia , Vidal Yolanda , Sepulveda Jose , Porro Olga , Cusidó Jordi
Published: August 2021

The goal of this paper is to develop, implement, and validate a methodology for wind turbines’ main bearing fault prediction based on an ensemble of an artificial neural network (normality model designed at turbine level) and an isolation forest (anomaly detection model designed at wind park level) algorithms trained only on SCADA data. The normal behavior and the anomalous samples of the wind turbines are identified and several interpretable indicators are proposed based on the predictions of these algorithms, to provide the wind park operators with understandable information with enough time to plan operations ahead and avoid unexpected costs. The stated methodology is validated in a real underproduction wind park composed by 18 wind turbines.
Compost Quality and Sanitation on Industrial Scale Composting of Municipal Solid Waste and Sewage Sludge
Authors: Siles-Castellano Ana B. , López-González Juan A. , Jurado Macarena M. , Estrella-González María J. , Suárez-Estrella Francisca , López María J.
Published: August 2021

Municipal solid waste and sewage sludge are produced in large quantities that are often managed through industrial composting treatment. Because of their origin, composition, and complexity, ensuring adequate stabilization of the organic matter, and sanitation of fecal contaminants during composting is of the utmost significance, and difficult to achieve on an industrial scale. In this study, the operations of six industrial composting facilities that process municipal solid waste and sewage sludge were evaluated from the point of view of the sanitation achieved and the quality of the compost produced. In addition, the results were compared using the model of industrial compost from green waste. Differences between the plants were ascribable to operations other than composting systems. High phytotoxicity and fecal contamination above legislation thresholds were found in compost produced from municipal solid waste. In contrast, compost from sewage sludge were more stable and mature than those produced from green waste, and also had an adequate level of sanitation. The raw material and operational factors are of great relevance to obtain a stable, mature, and pathogen-free compost.
An Extension of Beta Function by Using Wiman’s Function
Authors: Goyal Rahul , Momani Shaher , Agarwal Praveen , Rassias Michael Th.
Published: August 2021

The main purpose of this paper is to study extension of the extended beta function by Shadab et al. by using 2-parameter Mittag-Leffler function given by Wiman. In particular, we study some functional relations, integral representation, Mellin transform and derivative formulas for this extended beta function.
Analysis on Controllability Results for Wellposedness of Impulsive Functional Abstract Second-Order Differential Equation with State-Dependent Delay
Authors: Karthikeyan Kulandhivel , Tamizharasan Dhatchinamoorthy , Chalishajar Dimplekumar N.
Published: August 2021

The functional abstract second order impulsive differential equation with state dependent delay is studied in this paper. First, we consider a second order system and use a control to determine the controllability result. Then, using Sadovskii’s fixed point theorem, we get sufficient conditions for the controllability of the proposed system in a Banach space. The major goal of this study is to demonstrate the controllability of an abstract second-order impulsive differential system with a state dependent delay mechanism. The wellposed condition is then defined. Next, we studied whether the defined problem is wellposed. Finally, we apply our results to examine the controllability of the second order state dependent delay impulsive equation.
The Utility of Nicotinamide N-Methyltransferase as a Potential Biomarker to Predict the Oncological Outcomes for Urological Cancers: An Update
Authors: Campagna Roberto , Pozzi Valentina , Spinelli Graziana , Sartini Davide , Milanese Giulio , Galosi Andrea Benedetto , Emanuelli Monica
Published: August 2021

Nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT) catalyzes the N-methylation reaction of nicotinamide, using S-adenosyl-L-methionine as the methyl donor. Enzyme overexpression has been described in many non-neoplastic diseases, as well as in a wide range of solid malignancies. This review aims to report and discuss evidence available in scientific literature, dealing with NNMT expression and the potential involvement in main urologic neoplasms, namely, renal, bladder and prostate cancers. Data illustrated in the cited studies clearly demonstrated NNMT upregulation (pathological vs. normal tissue) in association with these aforementioned tumors. In addition to this, enzyme levels were also found to correlate with key prognostic parameters and patient survival. Interestingly, NNMT overexpression also emerged in peripheral body fluids, such as blood and urine, thus leading to candidate the enzyme as promising biomarker for the early and non-invasive detection of these cancers. Examined results undoubtedly showed NNMT as having the capacity to promote cell proliferation, migration and invasiveness, as well as its potential participation in fundamental events highlighting cancer progression, metastasis and resistance to chemo- and radiotherapy. In the light of this evidence, it is reasonable to attribute to NNMT a promising role as a potential biomarker for the diagnosis and prognosis of urologic neoplasms, as well as a molecular target for effective anti-cancer treatment.
Retinal Dysfunction in Alzheimer’s Disease and Implications for Biomarkers
Authors: Liao Chunyan , Xu Jinying , Chen Yu , Ip Nancy Y.
Published: August 2021

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that manifests as cognitive deficits and memory decline, especially in old age. Several biomarkers have been developed to monitor AD progression. Given that the retina and brain share some similarities including features related to anatomical composition and neurological functions, the retina is closely associated with the progression of AD. Herein, we review the evidence of retinal dysfunction in AD, particularly at the early stage, together with the underlying molecular mechanisms. Furthermore, we compared the retinal pathologies of AD and other ophthalmological diseases and summarized potential retinal biomarkers measurable by existing technologies for detecting AD, providing insights for the future development of diagnostic tools.
Stabilization Effect of Intrinsically Disordered Regions on Multidomain Proteins: The Case of the Methyl-CpG Protein 2, MeCP2
Authors: Ortega-Alarcon David , Claveria-Gimeno Rafael , Vega Sonia , Jorge-Torres Olga C. , Esteller Manel , Abian Olga , Velazquez-Campoy Adrian
Published: August 2021

Intrinsic disorder plays an important functional role in proteins. Disordered regions are linked to posttranslational modifications, conformational switching, extra/intracellular trafficking, and allosteric control, among other phenomena. Disorder provides proteins with enhanced plasticity, resulting in a dynamic protein conformational/functional landscape, with well-structured and disordered regions displaying reciprocal, interdependent features. Although lacking well-defined conformation, disordered regions may affect the intrinsic stability and functional properties of ordered regions. MeCP2, methyl-CpG binding protein 2, is a multifunctional transcriptional regulator associated with neuronal development and maturation. MeCP2 multidomain structure makes it a prototype for multidomain, multifunctional, intrinsically disordered proteins (IDP). The methyl-binding domain (MBD) is one of the key domains in MeCP2, responsible for DNA recognition. It has been reported previously that the two disordered domains flanking MBD, the N-terminal domain (NTD) and the intervening domain (ID), increase the intrinsic stability of MBD against thermal denaturation. In order to prove unequivocally this stabilization effect, ruling out any artifactual result from monitoring the unfolding MBD with a local fluorescence probe (the single tryptophan in MBD) or from driving the protein unfolding by temperature, we have studied the MBD stability by differential scanning calorimetry (reporting on the global unfolding process) and chemical denaturation (altering intramolecular interactions by a different mechanism compared to thermal denaturation).
Biomedical Applications of Biomolecules Isolated from Methanotrophic Bacteria in Wastewater Treatment Systems
Authors: Salem Rana , ElDyasti Ahmed , Audette Gerald F.
Published: August 2021

Wastewater treatment plants and other remediation facilities serve important roles, both in public health, but also as dynamic research platforms for acquiring useful resources and biomolecules for various applications. An example of this is methanotrophic bacteria within anaerobic digestion processes in wastewater treatment plants. These bacteria are an important microbial source of many products including ectoine, polyhydroxyalkanoates, and methanobactins, which are invaluable to the fields of biotechnology and biomedicine. Here we provide an overview of the methanotrophs’ unique metabolism and the biochemical pathways involved in biomolecule formation. We also discuss the potential biomedical applications of these biomolecules through creation of beneficial biocompatible products including vaccines, prosthetics, electronic devices, drug carriers, and heart stents. We highlight the links between molecular biology, public health, and environmental science in the advancement of biomedical research and industrial applications using methanotrophic bacteria in wastewater treatment systems.
Isotopically Dimethyl Labeling-Based Quantitative Proteomic Analysis of Phosphoproteomes of Soybean Cultivars
Authors: Moradi Atieh , Dai Shuaijian , Wong Emily Oi Ying , Zhu Guang , Yu Fengchao , Lam Hon-Ming , Wang Zhiyong , Burlingame Al , Lin Chengtao , Afsharifar Alireza , Yu Weichuan , Wang Tingliang , Li Ning
Published: August 2021

Isotopically dimethyl labeling was applied in a quantitative post-translational modification (PTM) proteomic study of phosphoproteomic changes in the drought responses of two contrasting soybean cultivars. A total of 9457 phosphopeptides were identified subsequently, corresponding to 4571 phosphoprotein groups and 3889 leading phosphoproteins, which contained nine kinase families consisting of 279 kinases. These phosphoproteins contained a total of 8087 phosphosites, 6106 of which were newly identified and constituted 54% of the current soybean phosphosite repository. These phosphosites were converted into the highly conserved kinase docking sites by bioinformatics analysis, which predicted six kinase families that matched with those newly found nine kinase families. The overly post-translationally modified proteins (OPP) occupies 2.1% of these leading phosphoproteins. Most of these OPPs are photoreceptors, mRNA-, histone-, and phospholipid-binding proteins, as well as protein kinase/phosphatases. The subgroup population distribution of phosphoproteins over the number of phosphosites of phosphoproteins follows the exponential decay law, Y = 4.13e−0.098X − 0.04. Out of 218 significantly regulated unique phosphopeptide groups, 188 phosphoproteins were regulated by the drought-tolerant cultivar under the water loss condition. These significantly regulated phosphoproteins (SRP) are mainly enriched in the biological functions of water transport and deprivation, methionine metabolic processes, photosynthesis/light reaction, and response to cadmium ion, osmotic stress, and ABA response. Seventeen and 15 SRPs are protein kinases/phosphatases and transcription factors, respectively. Bioinformatics analysis again revealed that three members of the calcium dependent protein kinase family (CAMK family), GmSRK2I, GmCIPK25, and GmAKINβ1 kinases, constitute a phosphor-relay-mediated signal transduction network, regulating ion channel activities and many nuclear events in this drought-tolerant cultivar, which presumably contributes to the development of the soybean drought tolerance under water deprivation process.
Phenolic Composition of Grape Stems from Different Spanish Varieties and Vintages
Authors: Esparza Irene , Moler José Antonio , Arteta Maite , Jiménez-Moreno Nerea , Ancín-Azpilicueta Carmen
Published: August 2021

Grape stems are a by-product from the wine industry that has been underused to date despite having great potential for the agro-food and cosmetic industries. The aim of the present work was to characterize grape stem extracts obtained from different grape varieties from two vintages (2016 and 2018). Both spectrophotometric and chromatographic methods were used for sample characterization. The results showed that there exist significant differences in antioxidant activity, total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TF) among grape stems from different varieties in each vintage and from different vintage for the same variety. Catechin was the most abundant phenolic compound in all extracts from both vintages. In general, Mazuelo presented higher concentration values of the different phenolic compounds than Garnacha and Tempranillo. It was observed than extreme temperatures and accumulated precipitations, which were higher in the 2016 vintage, had an impact on the polyphenol synthesis. Therefore, grape stems from the 2018 vintage presented higher TPC and TF values than their counterparts from the 2016 vintage. In addition, the statistical analysis revealed that the influence of environmental factor such as light, temperature and precipitations have different impact on the synthesis of polyphenols depending on the family of the specific compound.
Discrepancy in the Usage of GFAP as a Marker of Satellite Glial Cell Reactivity
Authors: Mohr Kjeld Morten , Pallesen Lone Tjener , Richner Mette , Vaegter Christian Bjerggaard
Published: August 2021

Satellite glial cells (SGCs) surrounding the neuronal somas in peripheral sensory ganglia are sensitive to neuronal stressors, which induce their reactive state. It is believed that such induced gliosis affects the signaling properties of the primary sensory neurons and is an important component of the neuropathic phenotype leading to pain and other sensory disturbances. Efforts to understand and manipulate such gliosis relies on reliable markers to confirm induced SGC reactivity and ultimately the efficacy of targeted intervention. Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) is currently the only widely used marker for such analyses. However, we have previously described the lack of SGC upregulation of GFAP in a mouse model of sciatic nerve injury, suggesting that GFAP may not be a universally suitable marker of SGC gliosis across species and experimental models. To further explore this, we here investigate the regulation of GFAP in two different experimental models in both rats and mice. We found that whereas GFAP was upregulated in both rodent species in the applied inflammation model, only the rat demonstrated increased GFAP in SGCs following sciatic nerve injury; we did not observe any such GFAP upregulation in the mouse model at either protein or mRNA levels. Our results demonstrate an important discrepancy between species and experimental models that prevents the usage of GFAP as a universal marker for SGC reactivity.
Enhanced Luminescent Detection of Circulating Tumor Cells by a 3D Printed Immunomagnetic Concentrator
Authors: Park Chanyong , Abafogi Abdurhaman Teyib , Ponnuvelu Dinesh Veeran , Song Ilchan , Ko Kisung , Park Sungsu
Published: August 2021

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are an indicator of metastatic progression and relapse. Since non-CTC cells such as red blood cells outnumber CTCs in the blood, the separation and enrichment of CTCs is key to improving their detection sensitivity. The ATP luminescence assay can measure intracellular ATP to detect cells quickly but has not yet been used for CTC detection in the blood because extracellular ATP in the blood, derived from non-CTCs, interferes with the measurement. Herein, we report on the improvement of the ATP luminescence assay for the detection of CTCs by separating and concentrating CTCs in the blood using a 3D printed immunomagnetic concentrator (3DPIC). Because of its high-aspect-ratio structure and resistance to high flow rates, 3DPIC allows cancer cells in 10 mL to be concentrated 100 times within minutes. This enables the ATP luminescence assay to detect as low as 10 cells in blood, thereby being about 10 times more sensitive than when commercial kits are used for CTC concentration. This is the first time that the ATP luminescence assay was used for the detection of cancer cells in blood. These results demonstrate the feasibility of 3DPIC as a concentrator to improve the detection limit of the ATP luminescence assay for the detection of CTCs.
Energy Efficient Approaches by Retrofitting Heat Pumps Water Heating System for a University Dormitory
Authors: Wang Fujen , Kusnandar  , Lin Hungwen , Tsai Minghua
Published: August 2021

With the cost of energy rising, the value of conservation grows. Interest in energy efficiency could be a sound investment or a necessary public policy. Heat pump systems provide economical alternatives of recovering heat from different sources for use in various applications. The objective of this study is to present the strategic approach on the energy efficient analysis of the water heating system retrofitted by applying a heat pump system in the dormitory of a university. Energy savings were determined by comparing field measurements of water consumption, water temperature and power consumption of the overall system before (electric resistance heating system) and after (heat pump heating system) the implementation of this project. Furthermore, the building energy simulation code (eQuest) has been applied to verify and predict the long-term energy consumption for both water heating systems. The results from energy modelling revealed the good agreement for energy simulation and field measurement data and the improvement of energy efficiency and energy savings could be achieved satisfactorily by retrofitting of a heat pump system. The energy conversion efficiency of hot water for energy consumption at 0.63 (Mcal/Mcal) could be achieved after the application of heat pump water heating system. It also presented the annual saving about USD 20,000 (NTD 600,000) for the dorm by using a heat pump heating system under the electrical billing rate of Taiwan.
Experimental and Numerical Analyses of Thermal Storage Tile-Bricks for Efficient Thermal Management of Buildings
Authors: Iqbal Saqib , Tang Jianwei , Raza Gulfam , Cheema Izzat , Kazmi Mohsin , Li Zirui , Wang Baoming , Liu Yong
Published: August 2021

Due to the tremendous increase in the population and emerging energy crisis, the surging demand for the thermal management of buildings has become essential. Thermal management of buildings is of high importance for maintaining optimum thermal comfort and controlling the drastic environmental impacts. To avoid high energy consumption strategies and continuous operation such as active air heaters and air conditioners, passive strategies driven by phase change material-based thermal storage are expected to leverage the energy challenges. This work attempts to present the form-stabilized thermal storage tile-bricks (TSTBs) that are fabricated by a combination of octadecane, phosphogypsum, kaolin clay and cement. The optimal percent contents of each entity were found with respect to the design criterion of form-stability and effective temperature control capacity. Two TSTBs with a thickness of 10 mm and 15 mm were constructed, which are then applied on ordinary clay bricks to build a prototype wall. The optimal TSTBs are experimentally and numerically evaluated by subjecting them to transient thermal performance analysis, providing longer temperature retardation (~3000 s) compared with ordinary clay bricks (~400 s). It is thus implied that TSTBs can provide a viable solution against energy mismanagement by inhibiting the heating in summer and reserving the cold in winter.
Defective Dopant-Free TiO2 as an Efficient Visible Light-Active Photocatalyst
Authors: Janczarek Marcin , Kowalska Ewa
Published: August 2021

Pristine and modified/doped titania are still some of the most widely investigated photocatalysts due to its high activity, stability, abundance and proper redox properties to carry out various reactions. However, modifiers and/or dopants resulting in visible-light activity might be expensive or work as recombination centers under UV irradiation. It seems that defective titania, known as “self-doped” TiO2, might be the best solution since it can be obtained under mild conditions without the addition of expensive materials and methods. This review discusses various methods of defective titania preparation, characterization of defect types, their localization (surface vs. bulk) and their function, as well as proposed mechanisms of photocatalytic reactions in the presence of self-doped titania. Although many kinds of defective titania samples have already been prepared with different colors, color intensities and defect kinds (mainly Ti3+ and oxygen vacancies), it is difficult to conclude which of them are the most recommended as the preparation conditions and activity testing used by authors differ. Furthermore, activity testing under solar radiation and for dyes does not clarify the mechanism since bare titania can also be excited and sensitized, respectively, in these conditions. In many reports, authors have not considered the possible influence of some impurities originated from the synthesis method (e.g., H, Al, Zn, Cl, F) that could co-participate in the overall mechanism of photocatalytic reactions. Moreover, some reports indicate that defective titania, especially black ones, might decrease activity since the defects might work as recombination centers. Despite some unproven/unclear findings and unanswered questions, there are many well-conducted studies confirmed by both experimental and theoretical studies that defective titania might be a promising material for various photocatalytic reactions under both UV and visible-light irradiation. Based on available literature, it could be proposed that optimal defects’ concentration, the preferential role of surface defects, a higher surface-to-bulk ratio of defects in rutile than in anatase, and the beneficial impact of disordered surface are the most important aspects to be considered during the preparation of defective titania.