bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recent Advances in Detection, Isolation, and Imaging Techniques for Sulfane Sulfur-Containing Biomolecules
Authors: Echizen Honami , Sasaki Eita , Hanaoka Kenjiro
Published: October 2021

Hydrogen sulfide and its oxidation products are involved in many biological processes, and sulfane sulfur compounds, which contain sulfur atoms bonded to other sulfur atom(s), as found in hydropersulfides (R-S-SH), polysulfides (R-S-Sn-S-R), hydrogen polysulfides (H2Sn), etc., have attracted increasing interest. To characterize their physiological and pathophysiological roles, selective detection techniques are required. Classically, sulfane sulfur compounds can be detected by cyanolysis, involving nucleophilic attack by cyanide ion to cleave the sulfur–sulfur bonds. The generated thiocyanate reacts with ferric ion, and the resulting ferric thiocyanate complex can be easily detected by absorption spectroscopy. Recent exploration of the properties of sulfane sulfur compounds as both nucleophiles and electrophiles has led to the development of various chemical techniques for detection, isolation, and bioimaging of sulfane sulfur compounds in biological samples. These include tag-switch techniques, LC-MS/MS, Raman spectroscopy, and fluorescent probes. Herein, we present an overview of the techniques available for specific detection of sulfane sulfur species in biological contexts.
The Physiological and Pathological Role of Tissue Nonspecific Alkaline Phosphatase beyond Mineralization
Authors: Sekaran Saravanan , Vimalraj Selvaraj , Thangavelu Lakshmi
Published: October 2021

Tissue-nonspecific alkaline phosphatase (TNAP) is a key enzyme responsible for skeletal tissue mineralization. It is involved in the dephosphorylation of various physiological substrates, and has vital physiological functions, including extra-skeletal functions, such as neuronal development, detoxification of lipopolysaccharide (LPS), an anti-inflammatory role, bile pH regulation, and the maintenance of the blood brain barrier (BBB). TNAP is also implicated in ectopic pathological calcification of soft tissues, especially the vasculature. Although it is the crucial enzyme in mineralization of skeletal and dental tissues, it is a logical clinical target to attenuate vascular calcification. Various tools and studies have been developed to inhibit its activity to arrest soft tissue mineralization. However, we should not neglect its other physiological functions prior to therapies targeting TNAP. Therefore, a better understanding into the mechanisms mediated by TNAP is needed for minimizing off targeted effects and aid in the betterment of various pathological scenarios. In this review, we have discussed the mechanism of mineralization and functions of TNAP beyond its primary role of hard tissue mineralization.
A Short Review on Catalyst, Feedstock, Modernised Process, Current State and Challenges on Biodiesel Production
Authors: Alsultan Abdulkareem G. , Asikin-Mijan Nurul , Ibrahim Zueriani , Yunus Robiah , Razali Siti Zulaika , Mansir Nasar , Islam Aminul , Seenivasagam Sivasangar , Taufiq-Yap Yun Hin
Published: October 2021

Biodiesel, comprising mono alkyl fatty acid esters or methyl ethyl esters, is an encouraging option to fossil fuels or diesel produced from petroleum; it has comparable characteristics and its use has the potential to diminish carbon dioxide production and greenhouse gas emissions. Manufactured from recyclable and sustainable feedstocks, e.g., oils originating from vegetation, biodiesel has biodegradable properties and has no toxic impact on ecosystems. The evolution of biodiesel has been precipitated by the continuing environmental damage created by the deployment of fossil fuels. Biodiesel is predominantly synthesised via transesterification and esterification procedures. These involve a number of key constituents, i.e., the feedstock and catalytic agent, the proportion of methanol to oil, the circumstances of the reaction and the product segregation and purification processes. Elements that influence the yield and standard of the obtained biodiesel encompass the form and quantity of the feedstock and reaction catalyst, the proportion of alcohol to feedstock, the temperature of the reaction, and its duration. Contemporary research has evaluated the output of biodiesel reactors in terms of energy production and timely biodiesel manufacture. In order to synthesise biodiesel for industrial use efficaciously, it is essential to acknowledge the technological advances that have significant potential in this sector. The current paper therefore offers a review of contemporary progress, feedstock categorisation, and catalytic agents for the manufacture of biodiesel and production reactors, together with modernised processing techniques. The production reactor, form of catalyst, methods of synthesis, and feedstock standards are additionally subjects of discourse so as to detail a comprehensive setting pertaining to the chemical process. Numerous studies are ongoing in order to develop increasingly efficacious techniques for biodiesel manufacture; these acknowledge the use of solid catalytic agents and non-catalytic supercritical events. This review appraises the contemporary situation with respect to biodiesel production in a range of contexts. The spectrum of techniques for the efficacious manufacture of biodiesel encompasses production catalysed by homogeneous or heterogeneous enzymes or promoted by microwave or ultrasonic technologies. A description of the difficulties to be surmounted going forward in the sector is presented.
Phenylalanine, Tyrosine, and DOPA Are bona fide Substrates for Bambusa oldhamii BoPAL4
Authors: Hsieh Chun-Yen , Huang Yi-Hao , Yeh Hui-Hsuan , Hong Pei-Yu , Hsiao Che-Jen , Hsieh Lu-Sheng
Published: October 2021

Phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) links the plant primary and secondary metabolisms, and its product, trans-cinnamic acid, is derived into thousands of diverse phenylpropanoids. Bambusa oldhamii BoPAL4 has broad substrate specificity using L-phenylalanine, L-tyrosine, and L-3,4-dihydroxy phenylalanine (L-DOPA) as substrates to yield trans-cinnamic acid, p-coumaric acid, and caffeic acid, respectively. The optimum reaction pH of BoPAL4 for three substrates was measured at 9.0, 8.5, and 9.0, respectively. The optimum reaction temperatures of BoPAL4 for three substrates were obtained at 50, 60, and 40 °C, respectively. The Km values of BoPAL4 for three substrates were 2084, 98, and 956 μM, respectively. The kcat values of BoPAL4 for three substrates were 1.44, 0.18, and 0.06 σ−1, respectively. The major substrate specificity site mutant, BoPAL4-H123F, showed better affinity toward L-phenylalanine by decreasing its Km value to 640 μM and increasing its kcat value to 1.87 s−1. In comparison to wild-type BoPAL4, the specific activities of BoPAL4-H123F using L-tyrosine and L-DOPA as substrates retained 5.4% and 17.8% residual activities. Therefore, L-phenylalanine, L-tyrosine, and L-DOPA are bona fide substrates for BoPAL4.
Expeditious Asymmetric Synthesis of Polypropionates Relying on Sulfur Dioxide-Induced C–C Bond Forming Reactions
Authors: Vogel Pierre , Sordo Gonzalo José Angel
Published: October 2021

For a long time, the organic chemistry of sulfur dioxide (SO2) consisted of sulfinates that react with carbon electrophiles to generate sulfones. With alkenes and other unsaturated compounds, SO2 generates polymeric materials such as polysulfones. More recently, H-ene, sila-ene and hetero-Diels–Alder reactions of SO2 have been realized under conditions that avoid polymer formation. Sultines resulting from the hetero-Diels–Alder reactions of conjugated dienes and SO2 are formed more rapidly than the corresponding more stable sulfolenes resulting from the cheletropic additions. In the presence of a protic or Lewis acid catalyst, the sultines derived from 1-alkoxydienes are ionized into zwitterionic intermediates bearing 1-alkoxyallylic cation moieties which react with electro-rich alkenes such as enol silyl ethers and allylsilanes with high stereoselectivity. (C–C-bond formation through Umpolung induced by SO2). This produces silyl sulfinates that react with carbon electrophiles to give sulfones (one-pot four component asymmetric synthesis of sulfones), or with Cl2, generating the corresponding sulfonamides that can be reacted in situ with primary and secondary amines (one-pot four component asymmetric synthesis of sulfonamides). Alternatively, Pd-catalyzed desulfinylation generates enantiomerically pure polypropionate stereotriads in one-pot operations. The chirons so obtained are flanked by an ethyl ketone moiety on one side and by a prop-1-en-1-yl carboxylate group on the other. They are ready for two-directional chain elongations, realizing expeditious synthesis of long-chain polypropionates and polyketides. The stereotriads have also been converted into simpler polypropionates such as the cyclohexanone moiety of baconipyrone A and B, Kishi’s stereoheptad unit of rifamycin S, Nicolaou’s C1–C11-fragment and Koert’s C16–CI fragment of apoptolidin A. This has also permitted the first total synthesis of (-)-dolabriferol.
Efficiency of Microencapsulation of Proteolytic Enzymes
Authors: Tikhonov Sergey L. , Tikhonova Natalya V. , Kudryashov Leonid S. , Kudryashova Olga A. , Moskovenko Nadezhda V. , Tretyakova Irina N.
Published: October 2021

Currently, special attention is paid to the study of the effectiveness of the immobilization method—microencapsulation. The aim of the research is to obtain a complex enzyme preparation from pepsin and papain by sequential microencapsulation of enzymes in a pseudo-boiling layer and to evaluate its tenderizing effect on pork. The objects of research were enzymes: pepsin and papain, which were microencapsulated in a protective coating of maltodextrin. It was found that the biocatalytic activity of the complex enzyme preparation is higher than that of pure enzymes. Microencapsulation allows maintaining the high proteolytic activity of enzymes for a long storage period. It has been shown that the thickness of the protective layer during microencapsulation of pepsin and papain in the pseudo-boiling layer of maltodextrin should be in the range of 4–6 microns. During the research, the physicochemical properties of pork were studied depending on the duration of fermentation. It was found that the maximum activity of immobilized enzymes is shifted to the alkaline side. Pork salting with the use of a microencapsulated enzyme preparation in the brine increases the water-binding capacity of proteins to a greater extent in comparison with brine with pure enzymes. The presented data show the high efficiency of sequential microencapsulation of the enzyme pepsin and then papain into a protective layer of maltodextrin in order to preserve their activity during storage.
Considerations in Surgical Management of Pediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Tonsillectomy and Beyond
Authors: Uwiera T. C.
Published: October 2021

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is an increasingly recognized disorder with a reported incidence of 5.7% in children. Tonsillectomy (with or without adenoidectomy) in pediatric OSA in otherwise healthy non-obese children has a success rate of approximately 75%. However, the cure rate reported for all children undergoing tonsillectomy varies from 51% to 83%. This article reviews the history of tonsillectomy, its indications, techniques, various methods, risks, and successes. The article also explores other surgical options in children with residual OSA post-tonsillectomy.
Klatskin-Mimicking Lesions
Authors: Marušić Marinko , Paić Matej , Knobloch Mia , Vodanović Marko
Published: October 2021

Altemeier-Klatskin tumor is a perihilar cholangiocarcinoma that occurs within 2 cm of the confluence of the right and left hepatic duct at the hepatic hilum and accounts for 50–70% of all cholangiocarcinomas cases. Although imaging techniques have come very far today, this entity can still be very challenging to diagnose as there are many lesions that can mimic Klatskin tumor. In this review, we will present the most common Klatskin-mimicking lesions.
A Novel Strategy for the Diagnosis of Pulmonary High-Grade Neuroendocrine Tumor
Authors: Miura Kentaro , Shimizu Kimihiro , Ide Shogo , Mishima Shuji , Matsuoka Shunichiro , Takeda Tetsu , Eguchi Takashi , Hamanaka Kazutoshi , Uehara Takeshi
Published: October 2021

Correctly diagnosing a histologic type of lung cancer is important for selecting the appropriate treatment because the aggressiveness, chemotherapy regimen, surgical approach, and prognosis vary significantly among histologic types. Pulmonary NETs, which are characterized by neuroendocrine morphologies, represent approximately 20% of all lung cancers. In particular, high-grade neuroendocrine tumors (small cell lung cancer and large cell neuroendocrine tumor) are highly proliferative cancers that have a poorer prognosis than other non-small cell lung cancers. The combination of hematoxylin and eosin staining, Ki-67, and immunostaining of classic neuroendocrine markers, such as chromogranin A, CD56, and synaptophysin, are normally used to diagnose high-grade neuroendocrine tumors; however, they are frequently heterogeneous. This article reviews the diagnostic methods of lung cancer diagnosis focused on immunostaining. In particular, we describe the usefulness of immunostaining by Stathmin-1, which is a cytosolic phosphoprotein and a key regulator of cell division due to its microtubule depolymerization in a phosphorylation-dependent manner, for the diagnosis of high-grade neuroendocrine tumors.
Oxymoroning Education: A Poem about Actualizing Affect for Public Good
Authors: Reinertsen Anne B.
Published: October 2021

An oxymoron is a self-contradicting or incongruous word or group of words as in Lord Byron’s (1788–1824) line from his satirical epic poem Don Juan; “melancholy merriment”, An oxymoron is a rhetorical and epigrammatic device for effect, often revealing paradox. The effect I aim for here is the actualization of affect; affect made relevant and useful for education as a public good. Oxymoroning as an immediate edging of knowledge into experience, hence a way to access a proto subjective level of the affective power of X. The prefix proto indicating the first, original or earliest. I ask how we can become materially identifiable subjects for one another and what would it take to move from a mechanistic approach to education to a more machinic one. It is a view of change that does not steal my powers or affective force away. Furthermore, are the abstractions one attempts to move from imitation to imagination abstract enough? I aim for expansions in our educational rationales for social and natural sustainability. It implies an educational philosophy of multiplicity ready to support and join a creative pluralism of organization and pedagogies and simultaneously counteract predetermined and controlling pluralism of organization and pedagogies. The overarching contribution of this poem is political, pragmatic and ethical and concerns the constitution of subjectivity for education in inter- and intra-generational perspectives through taking part in polysemantic ambiguity, envisioning a modest view to the child as a knowledgeable and connectable collective. Ultimately, a view of the child is our primary measurement indicator for educational quality. The competence most important to develop for educators is impression tenderness in order to meet the expressions of the child.
Short-Term to Long-Term Plasticity Transition Behavior of Memristive Devices with Low Power Consumption via Facilitating Ionic Drift of Implanted Lithium
Authors: Jeon Young Pyo , Bang Yongbin , Lee Hak Ji , Lee Eun Jung , Yoo Young Joon , Park Sang Yoon
Published: October 2021

Recent innovations in information technology have encouraged extensive research into the development of future generation memory and computing technologies. Memristive devices based on resistance switching are not only attractive because of their multi-level information storage, but they also display fascinating neuromorphic behaviors. We investigated the basic human brain’s learning and memory algorithm for “memorizing” as a feature for memristive devices based on Li-implanted structures with low power consumption. A topographical and surface chemical functionality analysis of an Li:ITO substrate was conducted to observe its characterization. In addition, a switching mechanism of a memristive device was theoretically studied and associated with ion migrations into a polymeric insulating layer. Biological short-term and long-term memory properties were imitated with the memristive device using low power consumption.
Design and Analysis of Fault-Tolerant 1:2 Demultiplexer Using Quantum-Dot Cellular Automata Nano-Technology
Authors: Seyedi Saeid , Navimipour Nima Jafari , Otsuki Akira
Published: October 2021

Quantum-dot Cellular Automata (QCA) is an innovative paradigm bringing hopeful applications in the perceptually novel computing layout in quantum electronics. The circuits manufactured by QCA technology can provide a notable decrease in size, rapid-switching velocity, and ultra-low power utilization. The demultiplexer is a beneficial component to optimize the whole process in any logical design, and therefore is very important in QCA. Moreover, fault-tolerant circuits can improve the reliability of digital circuits by redundancy. Hence, the present investigation illustrates a novel QCA-based fault-tolerant 1:2 demultiplexer construct that employs a two-input AND gate and inverter. The functionality of the suggested layout was executed and evaluated with the utilization of the QCADesigner 2.0.3 simulator. This paper utilizes cell redundancy on the wire, inverter, and AND gates for designing a fault-tolerant demultiplexer. Four components (i.e., missing cells, dislocation cells, extra cells, and misalignment) were analyzed by the QCADesigner simulator. The simulation results demonstrated that our proposed QCA-based fault-tolerant 1:2 demultiplexer acted more efficiently than prior constructs regarding delay and fault tolerance. The proposed fault-tolerant 1:2 demultiplexer could attain high fault-tolerance when single missing cell or extra cell faults exist in the QCA layout.
A Learning Control Method of Automated Vehicle Platoon at Straight Path with DDPG-Based PID
Authors: Yang Junru , Peng Weifeng , Sun Chuan
Published: October 2021

Cooperative adaptive cruise control (CACC) has important significance for the development of the connected and automated vehicle (CAV) industry. The traditional proportional integral derivative (PID) platoon controller adjustment is not only time-consuming and laborious, but also unable to adapt to different working conditions. This paper proposes a learning control method for a vehicle platooning system using a deep deterministic policy gradient (DDPG)-based PID. The main contribution of this study is automating the PID weight tuning process by formulating this objective as a deep reinforcement learning (DRL) problem. The longitudinal control of the vehicle platooning is divided into upper and lower control structures. The upper-level controller based on the DDPG algorithm can adjust the current PID controller parameters. Through offline training and learning in a SUMO simulation software environment, the PID controller can adapt to different road and vehicular platooning acceleration and deceleration conditions. The lower-level controller controls the gas/brake pedal to accurately track the desired acceleration and speed. Based on the hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulation platform, the results show that in terms of the maximum speed error, for the DDPG-based PID controller this is 0.02–0.08 m/s less than for the conventional PID controller, with a maximum reduction of 5.48%. In addition, the maximum distance error of the DDPG-based PID controller is 0.77 m, which is 14.44% less than that of the conventional PID controller.
The Distribution of the Thermal Field in an Elliptical Electric Conductor Coated with Insulation
Authors: Gołębiowski Jerzy , Zaręba Marek
Published: October 2021

The paper determines the stationary thermal field in an elliptical cross-section electric conductor coated with insulation. Heat is generated by the flow of alternating current (AC) through the conducting core, and then dissipated from the insulation surface via convection and radiation. The authors have developed an original method for hybrid (analytical–numerical) modeling of a field. This method has been used to solve the relevant boundary problem of Poisson’s equation. While the eigenfunctions of the Laplace operator were determined analytically, the coefficients of the eigenfunctions were calculated by iteratively solving an appropriate system of algebraic equations. The proposed method enables the analysis of systems with an elliptical geometry and a heterogeneous layered structure (e.g., air, aluminum alloy, PCV), and does not require area discretization (grid). The developed analytical–numerical (AN) method has been positively verified using finite elements (FEs). The determined thermal field is illustrated graphically. The obtained solution has a good physical interpretation.
Consumer Seafood Waste and the Potential of a ‘Direct-from-Frozen’ Approach to Prevention
Authors: Neff Roni A. , Love David C. , Overbey Katie , Biehl Erin , Deutsch Jonathan , Gorski-Steiner Irena , Pearson Pete , Vigil Toriana , Turvey Catherine , Fry Jillian P.
Published: October 2021

Few food waste interventions focus on drivers distinct to particular food groups, such as seafood. Given suggestive evidence that seafood may be wasted at exceptionally high rates, and given its environmental, economic and nutritional value, this research provides insights into seafood-specific consumer food waste interventions. We performed three complementary sub-studies to examine consumer and retailer views regarding seafood waste and frozen seafood as well as perceptions of an intervention providing chef-created recipes to promote cooking frozen seafood without defrosting. The findings indicated an openness to a direct-from-frozen intervention among many consumers and retailers, and suggested seven potential barriers to adoption, along with ways to address them. Underlying the potential for this intervention, and more broadly contributing to addressing consumer seafood waste, the research formed the basis of a new “4 Ps” concept model to characterize the drivers of discarded seafood: proficiency, perceptions/knowledge, perishability, and planning/convenience. These factors shape waste through pathways that include behavioral protocols; taste preferences; waste-prevention efforts; and food safety concerns, precautions, and errors. This research suggested the benefit of testing a larger-scale direct-from-frozen intervention using insights from the concept model and, more broadly, the benefits of exploring approaches to food waste prevention rooted in specific food groups.
Protein Fractionation of Green Leaves as an Underutilized Food Source—Protein Yield and the Effect of Process Parameters
Authors: Nynäs Anna-Lovisa , Newson William R. , Johansson Eva
Published: October 2021

Green biomass has potential as a sustainable protein source for human consumption, due to its abundance and favorable properties of its main protein, RuBisCO. Here, protein fractionation outcomes of green leafy biomass from nine crops were evaluated using a standard protocol with three major steps: juicing, thermal precipitation, and acid precipitation. Successful protein fractionation, with a freeze-dried, resolubilized white protein isolate containing RuBisCO as the final fraction, was achieved for seven of the crops, although the amount and quality of the resulting fractions differed considerably between crops. Biomass structure was negatively correlated with successful fractionation of proteins from biomass to green juice. The proteins in carrot and cabbage leaves were strongly associated with particles in the green juice, resulting in unsuccessful fractionation. Differences in thermal stability were correlated with relatedness of the biomass types, e.g., Beta vulgaris varieties showed similar performance in thermal precipitation. The optimal pH values identified for acid precipitation of soluble leaf proteins were lower than the theoretical value for RuBisCO for all biomass types, but with clear differences between biomass types. These findings reveal the challenges in using one standard fractionation protocol for production of food proteins from all types of green biomass and indicate that a general fractionation procedure where parameters are easily adjusted based on biomass type should instead be developed.
Fluid-Rock Interactions in a Paleo-Geothermal Reservoir (Noble Hills Granite, California, USA). Part 2: The Influence of Fracturing on Granite Alteration Processes and Fluid Circulation at Low to Moderate Regional Strain
Authors: Klee Johanne , Chabani Arezki , Ledésert Béatrice A. , Potel Sébastien , Hébert Ronan L. , Trullenque Ghislain
Published: October 2021

Fracture connectivity within fractured granitic basement geothermal reservoirs is an important factor controlling their permeability. This study aims to improve the understanding of fluid–rock interaction processes at low to moderate regional strain. The Noble Hills range (Death Valley, CA, USA) was chosen as a naturally exhumed paleo geothermal reservoir. A series of petrographic, petrophysical, and geochemical investigations, combined with a fracture distribution analysis, were carried out on samples collected across fracture zones. Our results indicate that several generations of fluids have percolated through the reservoir. An increase of (1) the alteration degree; (2) the porosity values; and (3) the calcite content was observed when approaching fracture zones. No correlation was identified among the alteration degree, the porosity, or the calcite content. At a local scale, samples showed that the degree of alteration does not necessarily depend on the fracture density or on the amount of the strain. It is concluded that the combined influence of strain and coeval fluid–rock interaction processes drastically influence the petrophysical properties of fracture zones, which in turn impact geothermal production potential.
Deleuze Becoming-Mary Poppins: Re-Imagining the Concept of Becoming-Woman and Its Potential for Challenging Current Notions of Parenting, Gender and Childhood
Authors: Carlyle Donna , Sidebottom Kay
Published: October 2021

In this paper, we consider the major and controversial lexicon of Deleuze’s ‘becoming-woman’ and what an alternative re-working of this concept might look like through the story of Mary Poppins. In playfully exploring the many interesting aspects of Travers’ character, with her classic tale about the vagaries of parenting, we attempt to highlight how reading Mary Poppins through the Deleuzian lens of ‘becoming-woman’ opens up possibilities, not limitations, in terms of feminist perspectives. In initially resisting the ‘Disneyfication’ of Mary Poppins, Travers offered insights and opportunities which we revisit and consider in terms of how this fictional character can significantly disrupt ideas of gender performativity. We endeavour to accentuate how one of its themes not only dismantles the patriarchy in 1910 but also has significant traction in the twenty- first century. We also put forth the idea of Mary Poppins as an icon of post-humanism, a nomadic war machine, with her robotic caring, magic powers and literal flights of fancy, to argue how she ironically holds the dual position of representing the professionalisation of parenting and the need to move beyond a Dionysian view of children as in need of control and regulation, as well as that of nurturer and emancipator. Indeed, in her many contradictions, we suggest a nomadic Mary Poppins can offer a route into the ideas of Deleuze and his view of children as de-territorialising forces and activators of change.
The Voyatzis Mansion in Aegina, Greece: A Historical and Architectural Approach and Physicochemical Documentation of the Wall Painting Decoration
Authors: Alexopoulou Athena Georgia , Georgiadou Zoe , Ilias Panagiotis , Kaminari Agathi Anthoula
Published: October 2021

This paper refers to the study of the Voyatzis mansion, in the port of Aegina, Greece. The building complex consists of two discrete structures, which were built at different times (before 1830, 1880 and 1890) and have housed either the Voyatzis family home or its business and work premises. The present research is focused on the documentation of the building, which was never published, and combines the architectural form and elements within its historical context as well as the physicochemical analysis of the painted decoration. The key hypothesis investigated is whether Konstantinos Voyatzis transferred the aesthetic approach and application techniques from Symi to Aegina, when he emigrated from his birthplace. The documentation of the ceiling decoration as well as the physicochemical study of the second floor’s internal wall painting decoration in the main rooms was carried out using in situ modern hyperspectral imaging in specific wavelengths of the visible and near-infrared region, as well as in false color infrared mode. Complementary SWIR imaging, using an InGaAs sensor at the range 900–1700 nm was also applied. The assumption was supported by the findings of the imaging techniques, which showed, apart from the secco method, the use of traditional pigments for the wall paintings, such as cobalt blue, brown, red and yellow earth pigments, chrome oxide green and black, sometimes in admixture with white. The use of guidelines and stencil in the case of the hallway was also recorded.
The Lack of Amyloidogenic Activity Is Persistent in Old WT and APPswe/PS1ΔE9 Mouse Retinae
Authors: Joly Sandrine , Rodriguez Léa , Pernet Vincent
Published: October 2021

We have previously reported that vision decline was not associated with amyloidogenesis processing in aging C57BL/6J wild-type (WT) mice and in a mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease, the APPswe/PS1ΔE9 transgenic mouse model (APP/PS1). This conclusion was drawn using middle-aged (10–13 months old) mice. Here, we hypothesized that compared with hippocampal and cortical neurons, the weak amyloidogenic activity of retinal neurons may result in a detectable release of amyloid β (Aβ) only in aged mice, i.e., between 14 and 24 months of age. The aim of the present study was thus to follow potential activity changes in the amyloidogenic and nonamyloidogenic pathways of young (4 months) and old (20–24 months) WT and APP/PS1 mice. Our results showed that in spite of retinal activity loss reported by electroretinogram (ERG) recordings, the level of amyloid beta precursor protein (APP) and its derivatives did not significantly vary in the eyes of old vs. young mice. Strikingly, the ectopic expression of human APPswe in APP/PS1 mice did not allow us to detect Aβ monomers at 23 months. In contrast, Aβ was observed in hippocampal and cortical tissues at this age but not at 4 months of life. In contrast, optic nerve transection-induced retinal ganglion cell injury significantly affected the level of retinal APP and the secretion of soluble APP alpha in the vitreous. Collectively, these results suggest that the amyloidogenic and nonamyloidogenic pathways are not involved in visual function decline in aging mice. In WT and APP/PS1 mice, it is proposed that retinal neurons do not have the capacity to secrete Aβ in contrast with other cortical and hippocampal neurons.
Reproductive, Obstetric and Neonatal Outcomes in Women with Congenital Uterine Anomalies: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Kim Min-A , Kim Hyo Sun , Kim Young-Han
Published: October 2021

Congenital uterine anomalies (CUA) may influence reproductive performance, resulting in adverse pregnancy associated complications. This study aimed to assess the association of CUA subtypes with reproductive, obstetric, and perinatal outcomes. We performed a systematic search of the MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane libraries for studies comparing pregnancy outcomes between women with CUA and those with a normal uterus. The random effects model was used to estimate the odds ratios (ORs) with a 95% confidence interval (CI). Women with CUA had a lower rate of live births (OR 0.47; 95% CI 0.33–0.69), and a higher rate of first trimester miscarriage (OR, 1.79; 95% CI, 1.34–2.4), second trimester miscarriage (OR 2.92; 95% CI 1.35–6.32), preterm birth (OR 2.98; 95% CI 2.43–3.65), malpresentation (OR 9.1; 95% CI 5.88–14.08), cesarean section (OR 2.87; 95% CI 1.56–5.26), and placental abruption (OR 3.12; 95% CI 1.58–6.18). Women with canalization defects appear to have the poorest reproductive performance during early pregnancy. However, unification defects were associated with obstetric and neonatal outcomes throughout the course of pregnancy. It may be beneficial for clinicians to advise on potential complications that may be increased depending on the type and severity of CUA.
Post-Transplant Malignancies following Pancreas Transplantation: Incidence and Implications on Long-Term Outcome from a Single-Center Perspective
Authors: Krendl Felix J. , Messner Franka , Bösmüller Claudia , Scheidl Stefan , Cardini Benno , Resch Thomas , Weissenbacher Annemarie , Oberhuber Rupert , Maglione Manuel , Schneeberger Stefan , Öfner Dietmar , Margreiter Christian
Published: October 2021

Chronic immunosuppression is associated with an increased risk of malignancy. The main objective of this study is to evaluate the incidence and effect of post-transplant malignancies (PTMs) following pancreas transplantation. The 348 first pancreas transplants performed between 1985 and 2015 were retrospectively analyzed in this study. Incidences of PTMs, as well as patient and graft survival, were evaluated. Out of 348 patients, 71 (20.4%) developed a PTM. Median time to diagnosis was 130 months. Thirty-six patients (50.7%) developed skin cancers (four patients with melanoma, 32 with NMSCs). Solid organ malignancy occurred in 25 (35.2%), hematologic malignancy in ten patients (14.1%). Affected patients were transplanted earlier [2000 (IQR 1993−2004) vs. 2003 (IQR 1999−2008); p < 0.001]. No differences in induction therapy were seen, both groups demonstrated comparable patient and graft survival. Pancreas transplant recipients with solid organ and hematologic malignancies had a three- and six-fold increased hazard of death compared to those with skin cancers [aHR 3.04 (IQR 1.17–7.91); p = 0.023; aHR 6.07 (IQR 1.87–19.71); p = 0.003]. PTMs affect every fifth patient following pancreas transplantation. Skin cancers are the most common malignancies accounting for 50% of all PTMs. These results underscore the importance of close dermatologic follow-up.
Association between Bone Mineral Density and Metabolic Syndrome among Reproductive, Menopausal Transition, and Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Salas Rogelio , Tijerina Alexandra , Cardona Mariana , Bouzas Cristina , Ramirez Erik , Martínez Gustavo , Garza Aurora , Pastor Rosario , Tur Josep A.
Published: October 2021

The menopausal transition stage brings physiological changes associated with the development of metabolic syndrome (MetS), which can affect bone mineral density (BMD), and may be more evident in the postmenopausal stage. The aim of this study was assessing the association between low BMD and MetS and its components among reproductive/menopausal transition and postmenopausal women in the northeast region of Mexico. A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out (2015–2016) in 40–60-year-old women (n = 376) who were residents in the metropolitan area of Monterrey, in Nuevo Leon State, Mexico. Anthropometric measurements, blood pressure, a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) evaluation of BMD of two anatomical sites (lumbar spine and dual femur), and a biochemical analysis were obtained. The prevalence of MetS was 57.2%. In participants without MetS, the prevalence of osteopenia was 27.3% in the lumbar spine and 18.6% in the dual femur, while in participants with MetS, the prevalence of osteopenia was 35.8% in the lumbar spine and 14.4% in the dual femur. Osteoporosis in participants without MetS was present in 6.8% in the lumbar spine and in 1.8% in the dual femur, while in women with MetS, its prevalence was 4.7% in the lumbar spine and 0.5% in the dual femur. An association between low BMD at the lumbar spine and dual femur and components of MetS diseases was identified in Mexican women as follows: waist circumference ≥ 88 cm showed an increase risk for low BMD at femoral site in both reproductive/menopausal transition (OR 7.638; 95% CI: 1.607–36.298; p = 0.011) and postmenopausal women (OR 2.600; 95% CI: 1.023–6.609; p = 0.045); HDL < 50 mg/dL was associated with low BMD in both the femur (OR 3.639; 95% CI: 1.039–12.743; p = 0.043) and lumbar spine (OR 2.654; 95% CI: 1.092–6.447; p = 0.031); hypertension in postmenopausal women increased the risk for low BMD in the femur (OR 2.634; 95% CI: 1.150–6.035; p = 0.022). In conclusion, we found that components of the MetS were associated with low BMD, thus indicating that MetS increases the risk for developing osteopenia or osteoporosis. Furthermore, age was found to be an independent risk factor for low BMD.
Evaluation of Self-Concept in the Project for People with Intellectual Disabilities: “We Are All Campus”
Authors: Belmonte Almagro María Luisa , Bernárdez-Gómez Abraham
Published: October 2021

The inclusion of people with disabilities, intellectual in the case that concerns this research, has been one of the main concerns of society in recent years. The University of Murcia has launched the “We are all Campus” program in order to facilitate the inclusion of this group from a training perspective. Being aware of the influence of self-concept in such inclusion, this research aims to analyze the influence of the self-concept of people with intellectual disabilities in their expectations of inclusion. For this purpose, 18 subjects were asked to carry out a SWOT analysis, assessing the situation in which they find themselves through a qualitative perspective and a phenomenological design. The research reveals, among other conclusions, how important personal development is to them, especially by generating autonomy in their daily routines, and also the relevance of their relationships to feel socially included.
A 1.9 nW, Sub-1 V, 542 pA/V Linear Bulk-Driven OTA with 154 dB CMRR for Bio-Sensing Applications
Authors: Sanchotene Silva Rafael , Rodovalho Luis Henrique , Aiello Orazio , Ramos Rodrigues Cesar
Published: October 2021

In this paper, a new technique for improvement on the DC voltage gain, while keeping the high-linearity in symmetrical operational transconductance amplifier (OTA) bulk-driven (BD) topology is proposed. These features are achieved by allying two topological solutions: enhanced forward-body-biasing self-cascode current mirror, and source degeneration. The proposed concept is demonstrated through simulations with typical process parameters and Monte Carlo analysis on nominal transistors of the CMOS TSMC 180 nm node. Results indicate that the proposed OTA can achieve a very small transconductance, only 542 pA/V while keeping a voltage gain higher than 60 dB, 150 dB CMRR, and high linearity of 475 mVpp (1% THD), consuming only 1.9 nW for a supply voltage of 0.6 V. This set of features allows the proposed OTA to be an attractive solution for implementing OTA-C filters for the analog front-ends in wearable devices and bio-sensing.
Mastering the Body and Tail Shape of a Distribution
Authors: Wagener Matthias , Bekker Andriette , Arashi Mohammad
Published: October 2021

The normal distribution and its perturbation have left an immense mark on the statistical literature. Several generalized forms exist to model different skewness, kurtosis, and body shapes. Although they provide better fitting capabilities, these generalizations do not have parameters and formulae with a clear meaning to the practitioner on how the distribution is being modeled. We propose a neat integration approach generalization which intuitively gives direct control of the body and tail shape, the body-tail generalized normal (BTGN). The BTGN provides the basis for a flexible distribution, emphasizing parameter interpretation, estimation properties, and tractability. Basic statistical measures are derived, such as the density function, cumulative density function, moments, moment generating function. Regarding estimation, the equations for maximum likelihood estimation and maximum product spacing estimation are provided. Finally, real-life situations data, such as log-returns, time series, and finite mixture modeling, are modeled using the BTGN. Our results show that it is possible to have more desirable traits in a flexible distribution while still providing a superior fit to industry-standard distributions, such as the generalized hyperbolic, generalized normal, tail-inflated normal, and t distributions.
Geometric Modeling of C-Bézier Curve and Surface with Shape Parameters
Authors: Meng Wei , Li Caiyun , Liu Qianqian
Published: October 2021

In order to solve the problem of geometric design and architectural design of complex engineering surface, we introduce the parametric and geometric continuity constraints of generalized C-Bézier curves and surfaces with shape parameters. Firstly, based on C-Bézier basis with parameters, we study the constraints of the control points of the curves needed to be satisfied when connecting them. Moreover, we study the continuity conditions between two adjacent C-Bézier surfaces with parameters. By the continuity conditions and different shape parameters, the curve and surface can be changed easily and be more flexible without altering its control points. Therefore, by adjusting the values of shape parameters, the curve and surface still preserve its characteristics and geometrical configuration. Some graphical examples ensure that the proposed method greatly improves the ability to design complex curves and surfaces and easy to implement.
Combining Nyström Methods for a Fast Solution of Fredholm Integral Equations of the Second Kind
Authors: Mezzanotte Domenico , Occorsio Donatella , Russo Maria Grazia
Published: October 2021

In this paper, we propose a suitable combination of two different Nyström methods, both using the zeros of the same sequence of Jacobi polynomials, in order to approximate the solution of Fredholm integral equations on [−1,1]. The proposed procedure is cheaper than the Nyström scheme based on using only one of the described methods . Moreover, we can successfully manage functions with possible algebraic singularities at the endpoints and kernels with different pathologies. The error of the method is comparable with that of the best polynomial approximation in suitable spaces of functions, equipped with the weighted uniform norm. The convergence and the stability of the method are proved, and some numerical tests that confirm the theoretical estimates are given.
The Influence of Temperature on the Microstructure and Properties of Nb-V-Ti-Mo Complex Microalloyed High-Strength Fire-Resistant Steel
Authors: Wang Xin , Li Zhaodong , Zhou Shitong , Chen Runnong , Da Guangjie , Yong Qilong , Yang Zhongmin , Shen Junchang , Shang Chengjia , Liu Qingyou
Published: October 2021

Nb-V-Ti-Mo complex microalloyed high-strength fire-resistant steel was obtained through two-stage hot rolling and laminar cooling. The results showed that the microstructure of the steel included bainite ferrite and martensite-austenite constituent (i.e., MA) islands. The experimental steel displayed high strength at room temperature, with a yield strength (YS) of 617 MPa and tensile strength of 813 MPa (elongation = 18.5%). As the temperature increased to 700 °C, the high-temperature yield strength gradually decreased. Electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) was used to analyze the experimental steels at different temperatures. The grain sizes did not grow significantly. A small number of nanoprecipitates with an average diameter of 29.2 nm were distributed in the matrix of the as-rolled specimen. Upon increasing the temperature, the number of fine nanoprecipitates gradually increased, resulting in a gradual decrease in their average diameter, reaching a minimum of 19.4 nm at 600 °C. The Orowan equation explained well the precipitation strengthening effect of the nanoprecipitates that formed at a high temperature. At both room temperature and 300 °C, the Ashby work hardening theoretical curves were consistent with the experimental true stress-strain curves. Dynamic recovery and recrystallization occurred at 600 °C, which caused the experimental true stress-strain curve to deviate from the calculated curve.
Mechanical Behavior Assessment of Ti-6Al-4V ELI Alloy Produced by Laser Powder Bed Fusion
Authors: Mahmud Asif , Huynh Thinh , Zhou Le , Hyer Holden , Mehta Abhishek , Imholte Daniel D. , Woolstenhulme Nicolas E. , Wachs Daniel M. , Sohn Yongho
Published: October 2021

The present work correlates the quasi-static, tensile mechanical properties of additively manufactured Ti-6Al-4V extra low interstitial (ELI, Grade 23) alloy to the phase constituents, microstructure, and fracture surface characteristics that changed with post-heat treatment of stress relief (670 °C for 5 h) and hot isostatic pressing (HIP with 100 MPa at 920 °C for 2 h under an Ar atmosphere). Ti-6Al-4V ELI alloy tensile specimens in both the horizontal (i.e., X and Y) and vertical (Z) directions were produced by the laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) technique. Higher yield strength (1141 MPa), higher tensile strength (1190 MPa), but lower elongation at fracture (6.9%), along with mechanical anisotropy were observed for as-stress-relieved (ASR) samples. However, after HIP, consistent and isotropic mechanical behaviors were observed with a slight reduction in yield strength (928 MPa) and tensile strength (1003 MPa), but with a significant improvement in elongation at fracture (16.1%). Phase constituents of acicular α′ phase in ASR and lamellar α + β phases in HIP samples were observed and quantified to corroborate the reduction in strength and increase in ductility. The anisotropic variation in elongation at fracture observed for the ASR samples, particularly built in the build (Z) direction, was related to the presence of “keyhole” porosity.
Experimental Investigation on Silicon Powder Mixed-EDM of Nimonic-90 Superalloy
Authors: Alhodaib Aiyeshah , Shandilya Pragya , Rouniyar Arun Kumar , Bisaria Himanshu
Published: October 2021

Powder mixed electrical discharge machining (PM-EDM) is a technological advancement in electrical discharge machining (EDM) processes where fine powder is added to dielectric to improve the machining rate and surface quality. In this paper, machining of Nimonic-90 was carried out using fabricated PM-EDM, setup by adding silicon powder to kerosene oil. The influence of four input process parameters viz. powder concentration (PC), discharge current (IP), spark on duration (SON), and spark off duration (SOFF) has been investigated on surface roughness and recast layer thickness. L9 Taguchi orthogonal and grey relational analysis have been employed for experimental design and multi-response optimization, respectively. With the addition of silicon powder to kerosene oil, a significant decrease in surface roughness and recast layer thickness was noticed, as compared to pure kerosene. Spark on duration was the most significant parameter for both surface roughness and the recast layer thickness. The minimum surface roughness (3.107 µm) and the thinnest recast layer (14.926 μm) were obtained at optimum process parameters i.e., PC = 12 g/L, IP = 3 A, SON = 35 μs, and SOFF = 49 μs using grey relational analysis.