bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Frequency-Dependent Dynamics of Functional Connectivity Networks During Seizure Termination in Childhood Absence Epilepsy: A Magnetoencephalography Study
Authors: Sun Jintao , Li Yihan , Zhang Ke , Sun Yulei , Wang Yingfan , Miao Ailiang , Xiang Jing , Wang Xiaoshan
Published: October 2021

Objective: Our aim was to investigate the dynamics of functional connectivity (FC) networks during seizure termination in patients with childhood absence epilepsy (CAE) using magnetoencephalography (MEG) and graph theory (GT) analysis.

Methods: MEG data were recorded from 22 drug-naïve patients diagnosed with CAE. FC analysis was performed to evaluate the FC networks in seven frequency bands of the MEG data. GT analysis was used to assess the topological properties of FC networks in different frequency bands.

Results: The patterns of FC networks involving the frontal cortex were altered significantly during seizure termination compared with those during the ictal period. Changes in the topological parameters of FC networks were observed in specific frequency bands during seizure termination compared with those in the ictal period. In addition, the connectivity strength at 250–500 Hz during the ictal period was negatively correlated with seizure frequency.

Conclusions: FC networks associated with the frontal cortex were involved in the termination of absence seizures. The topological properties of FC networks in different frequency bands could be used as new biomarkers to characterize the dynamics of FC networks related to seizure termination.
Clinical Effectiveness and Efficacy of Chiropractic Spinal Manipulation for Spine Pain
Authors: Gevers-Montoro Carlos , Provencher Benjamin , Descarreaux Martin , Ortega de Mues Arantxa , Piché Mathieu
Published: October 2021

Spine pain is a highly prevalent condition affecting over 11% of the world's population. It is the single leading cause of activity limitation and ranks fourth in years lost to disability globally, representing a significant personal, social, and economic burden. For the vast majority of patients with back and neck pain, a specific pathology cannot be identified as the cause for their pain, which is then labeled as non-specific. In a growing proportion of these cases, pain persists beyond 3 months and is referred to as chronic primary back or neck pain. To decrease the global burden of spine pain, current data suggest that a conservative approach may be preferable. One of the conservative management options available is spinal manipulative therapy (SMT), the main intervention used by chiropractors and other manual therapists. The aim of this narrative review is to highlight the most relevant and up-to-date evidence on the effectiveness (as it compares to other interventions in more pragmatic settings) and efficacy (as it compares to inactive controls under highly controlled conditions) of SMT for the management of neck pain and low back pain. Additionally, a perspective on the current recommendations on SMT for spine pain and the needs for future research will be provided. In summary, SMT may be as effective as other recommended therapies for the management of non-specific and chronic primary spine pain, including standard medical care or physical therapy. Currently, SMT is recommended in combination with exercise for neck pain as part of a multimodal approach. It may also be recommended as a frontline intervention for low back pain. Despite some remaining discrepancies, current clinical practice guidelines almost universally recommend the use of SMT for spine pain. Due to the low quality of evidence, the efficacy of SMT compared with a placebo or no treatment remains uncertain. Therefore, future research is needed to clarify the specific effects of SMT to further validate this intervention. In addition, factors that predict these effects remain to be determined to target patients who are more likely to obtain positive outcomes from SMT.
Apnoea of Prematurity and Neurodevelopmental Outcomes: Current Understanding and Future Prospects for Research
Authors: Williamson Max , Poorun Ravi , Hartley Caroline
Published: October 2021

Infants who are born prematurely are at significant risk of apnoea. In addition to the short-term consequences such as hypoxia, apnoea of prematurity has been associated with long-term morbidity, including poor neurodevelopmental outcomes. Clinical trials have illustrated the importance of methylxanthine drugs, in particular caffeine, in reducing the risk of long term adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes. However, the extent to which apnoea is causative of this secondary neurodevelopmental delay or is just associated in a background of other sequelae of prematurity remains unclear. In this review, we first discuss the pathophysiology of apnoea of prematurity, previous studies investigating the relationship between apnoea and neurodevelopmental delay, and treatment of apnoea with caffeine therapy. We propose a need for better methods of measuring apnoea, along with improved understanding of the neonatal brain's response to consequent hypoxia. Only then can we start to disentangle the effects of apnoea on neurodevelopment in preterm infants. Moreover, by better identifying those infants who are at risk of apnoea, and neurodevelopmental delay, we can work toward a risk stratification system for these infants that is clinically actionable, for example, with doses of caffeine tailored to the individual. Optimising treatment of apnoea for individual infants will improve neonatal care and long-term outcomes for this population.
Remote Sensing Monitoring of Rice Fields: Towards Assessing Water Saving Irrigation Management Practices
Authors: de Lima Isabel Pedroso , Jorge Romeu Gerardo , de Lima João L. M. P
Published: October 2021

Rice cultivation is one of the largest users of the world’s freshwater resources. The contribution of remote sensing observations for identifying the conditions under which rice is cultivated, particularly throughout the growing season, can be instrumental for water, and crop management. Data from different remote sensing platforms are being used in agriculture, namely to detecting anomalies in crops. This is attempted by calculating vegetation indices (VI) that are based on different vegetation reflectance bands, especially those that rely on the Red, Green, and near-infrared bands, such as the Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) or the Green Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (GNDVI). However, particular features of different crops and growing conditions justify that some indices are more adequate than others on a case-to-case basis, according to the different vegetation’s spectral signatures. In recent years, a vegetation index related to the Red Edge reflectance band, the Normalised Difference Red Edge (NDRE) has shown potential to be used as a tool to support agricultural management practices; this edge band, by taking a transition position, is very sensitive to changes in vegetation properties. This work, focusing on the rice crop and the application of different irrigation practices, explores the capability of several VIs calculated from different reflectance bands to detect variability, at the plot scale, in rice cultivation in the Lower Mondego region (Portugal). The remote sensing data were obtained from satellite Sentinel-2A imagery and using a multispectral camera mounted on an Unmanned Aerial System (UAS). By comparing several vegetation indices, we found that NDRE is particularly useful for identifying non-homogeneities in irrigation and crop growth in rice fields. Since few satellite sensors are sensible in the Red Edge band and none has the spatial resolution offered by UAS, this study explores the potential of UAS to be used as a useful support information tool in rice farming and precision agriculture, regarding irrigation, and agronomic management.
A New 3D Shaping Method for Low-Thrust Trajectories between Non-Intersect Orbits
Authors: Zhang Tongxin , Wu Di , Jiang Fanghua , Zhou Hong
Published: October 2021

This paper proposes a new shape-based method in spherical coordinates to solve three-dimensional rendezvous problems. Compared with the existing shape-based methods, the proposed method does not need parameter optimization. Moreover, it improves the flexibility of orbit fitting, greatly reduces the velocity increment and maximum thrust acceleration, and ensures the orbit safety to a certain extent. The shaping function can provide the initial estimate for numerical trajectory optimization and improve the convergence rate in a certain range when combined with the normalization method. The superiority of the proposed method over the existing methods is demonstrated by two numerical examples. Its effectiveness at initial estimation generation in the indirect optimization of a low-thrust trajectory is demonstrated by the third example.
Mechanism, Prevention, and Treatment of Radiation-Induced Salivary Gland Injury Related to Oxidative Stress
Authors: Liu Zijing , Dong Lihua , Zheng Zhuangzhuang , Liu Shiyu , Gong Shouliang , Meng Lingbin , Xin Ying , Jiang Xin
Published: October 2021

Radiation therapy is a common treatment for head and neck cancers. However, because of the presence of nerve structures (brain stem, spinal cord, and brachial plexus), salivary glands (SGs), mucous membranes, and swallowing muscles in the head and neck regions, radiotherapy inevitably causes damage to these normal tissues. Among them, SG injury is a serious adverse event, and its clinical manifestations include changes in taste, difficulty chewing and swallowing, oral infections, and dental caries. These clinical symptoms seriously reduce a patient’s quality of life. Therefore, it is important to clarify the mechanism of SG injury caused by radiotherapy. Although the mechanism of radiation-induced SG injury has not yet been determined, recent studies have shown that the mechanisms of calcium signaling, microvascular injury, cellular senescence, and apoptosis are closely related to oxidative stress. In this article, we review the mechanism by which radiotherapy causes oxidative stress and damages the SGs. In addition, we discuss effective methods to prevent and treat radiation-induced SG damage.
Temporal Changes in Physiological Responses of Bay Scallop: Performance of Antioxidant Mechanism in Argopecten irradians in Response to Sudden Changes in Habitat Salinity
Authors: Song Jin Ah , Choi Cheol Young
Published: October 2021

Changes to habitat salinity may induce oxidative stress in aquatic organisms. The effect of salinity on the antioxidant function of bay scallops was investigated at 55, 70, 85 and 120% of seawater salinity (SW), with 100% SW as the control. The scallops were sampled 0, 6, 12, 24, 48 and 72 h after the salinity change to measure superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and lipid peroxidation (LPO) levels, as well as apoptosis in the digestive diverticula and/or hemolymph. The SOD immunohistochemistry and apoptotic response were assessed at 55% and 120% SW at 12 h. Antioxidant expressions at 55% and 70% SW peaked at 24 h or 48 h, and then decreased. At 120% SW, they increased with exposure time. The H2O2 and LPO levels at each SW increased significantly with time. A comet assay also revealed that changes in salinity increased the rate of nuclear DNA damage in all the salinity groups. Thus, variations in salinity result in significant physiological responses in bay scallops. A change in habitat salinity of 15% or more produces oxidative stress that cannot be resolved by the body’s antioxidant mechanism, suggesting that excessive generation of reactive oxygen species can lead to cell death.
Streptomyces as Potential Synthetic Polymer Degraders: A Systematic Review
Authors: Rodríguez-Fonseca Maria Fernanda , Sánchez-Suárez Jeysson , Valero Manuel Fernando , Ruiz-Balaguera Sonia , Díaz Luis Eduardo
Published: October 2021

The inherent resistance of synthetic plastics to degradation has led to an increasing challenge of waste accumulation problem and created a pollution issue that can only be addressed with novel complementary methods such as biodegradation. Since biocontrol is a promising eco-friendly option to address this challenge, the identification of suitable biological agents is a crucial requirement. Among the existing options, organisms of the Streptomyces genus have been reported to biodegrade several complex polymeric macromolecules such as chitin, lignin, and cellulose. Therefore, this systematic review aimed to evaluate the potential of Streptomyces strains for the biodegradation of synthetic plastics. The results showed that although Streptomyces strains are widely distributed in different ecosystems in nature, few studies have explored their capacity as degraders of synthetic polymers. Moreover, most of the research in this field has focused on Streptomyces strains with promising biotransforming potential against polyethylene-like polymers. Our findings suggest that this field of study is still in the early stages of development. Moreover, considering the diverse ecological niches associated with Streptomyces, these actinobacteria could serve as complementary agents for plastic waste management and thereby enhance carbon cycle dynamics.
Novel Vaccine Adjuvants as Key Tools for Improving Pandemic Preparedness
Authors: Pogostin Brett H. , McHugh Kevin J.
Published: October 2021

Future infectious disease outbreaks are inevitable; therefore, it is critical that we maximize our readiness for these events by preparing effective public health policies and healthcare innovations. Although we do not know the nature of future pathogens, antigen-agnostic platforms have the potential to be broadly useful in the rapid response to an emerging infection—particularly in the case of vaccines. During the current COVID-19 pandemic, recent advances in mRNA engineering have proven paramount in the rapid design and production of effective vaccines. Comparatively, however, the development of new adjuvants capable of enhancing vaccine efficacy has been lagging. Despite massive improvements in our understanding of immunology, fewer than ten adjuvants have been approved for human use in the century since the discovery of the first adjuvant. Modern adjuvants can improve vaccines against future pathogens by reducing cost, improving antigen immunogenicity, and increasing antigen stability. In this perspective, we survey the current state of adjuvant use, highlight potentially impactful preclinical adjuvants, and propose new measures to accelerate adjuvant safety testing and technology sharing to enable the use of “off-the-shelf” adjuvant platforms for rapid vaccine testing and deployment in the face of future pandemics.
Two-Stage Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) Production from Cheese Whey Using Acetobacter pasteurianus C1 and Bacillus sp. CYR1
Authors: Chang Young-Cheol , Reddy Motakatla , Imura Kazuma , Onodera Rui , Kamada Natsumi , Sano Yuki
Published: October 2021

Cheese whey (CW) can be an excellent carbon source for polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA)-producing bacteria. Most studies have used CW, which contains high amounts of lactose, however, there are no reports using raw CW, which has a relatively low amount of lactose. Therefore, in the present study, PHA production was evaluated in a two-stage process using the CW that contains low amounts of lactose. In first stage, the carbon source existing in CW was converted into acetic acid using the bacteria, Acetobacter pasteurianus C1, which was isolated from food waste. In the second stage, acetic acid produced in the first stage was converted into PHA using the bacteria, Bacillus sp. CYR-1. Under the condition of without the pretreatment of CW, acetic acid produced from CW was diluted at different folds and used for the production of PHA. Strain CYR-1 incubated with 10-fold diluted CW containing 5.7 g/L of acetic acid showed the higher PHA production (240.6 mg/L), whereas strain CYR-1 incubated with four-fold diluted CW containing 12.3 g/L of acetic acid showed 126 mg/L of PHA. After removing the excess protein present in CW, PHA production was further enhanced by 3.26 times (411 mg/L) at a four-fold dilution containing 11.3 g/L of acetic acid. Based on Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and 1H and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analyses, it was confirmed that the PHA produced from the two-stage process is poly-β-hydroxybutyrate (PHB). All bands appearing in the FT-IR spectrum and the chemical shifts of NMR nearly matched with those of standard PHB. Based on these studies, we concluded that a two-stage process using Acetobacter pasteurianus C1 and Bacillus sp. CYR-1 would be applicable for the production of PHB using CW containing a low amount of lactose.
Prediagnostic Blood Selenium Status and Mortality among Patients with Colorectal Cancer in Western European Populations
Authors: Baker Jacqueline Roshelli , Umesh Sushma , Jenab Mazda , Schomburg Lutz , Tjønneland Anne , Olsen Anja , Boutron-Ruault Marie-Christine , Rothwell Joseph A. , Severi Gianluca , Katzke Verena , Johnson Theron , Schulze Matthias B. , Masala Giovanna , Agnoli Claudia , Simeon Vittorio , Tumino Rosario , Bueno-de-Mesquita H. Bas , Gram Inger Torhild , Skeie Guri , Bonet Catalina , Rodriguez-Barranco Miguel , Houerta José María , Gylling Björn , Van Guelpen Bethany , Perez-Cornago Aurora , Aglago Elom , Freisling Heinz , Weiderpass Elisabete , Cross Amanda J. , Heath Alicia K. , Hughes David J. , Fedirko Veronika
Published: October 2021

A higher selenium (Se) status has been shown to be associated with lower risk for colorectal cancer (CRC), but the importance of Se in survival after CRC diagnosis is not well studied. The associations of prediagnostic circulating Se status (as indicated by serum Se and selenoprotein P (SELENOP) measurements) with overall and CRC-specific mortality were estimated using multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression among 995 CRC cases (515 deaths, 396 from CRC) in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) cohort. Se and SELENOP serum concentrations were measured on average 46 months before CRC diagnosis. Median follow-up time was 113 months. Participants with Se concentrations in the highest quintile (≥100 µg/L) had a multivariable-adjusted hazard ratio (HR) of 0.73 (95% CI: 0.52–1.02; Ptrend = 0.06) for CRC-specific mortality and 0.77 (95% CI: 0.57–1.03; Ptrend = 0.04) for overall mortality, compared with the lowest quintile (≤67.5 µg/L). Similarly, participants with SELENOP concentrations in the highest (≥5.07 mg/L) compared with the lowest quintile (≤3.53 mg/L) had HRs of 0.89 (95% CI: 0.64–1.24; Ptrend = 0.39) for CRC-specific mortality and 0.83 (95% CI: 0.62–1.11; Ptrend = 0.17) for overall mortality. Higher prediagnostic exposure to Se within an optimal concentration (100–150 µg/L) might be associated with improved survival among CRC patients, although our results were not statistically significant and additional studies are needed to confirm this potential association. Our findings may stimulate further research on selenium’s role in survival among CRC patients especially among those residing in geographic regions with suboptimal Se availability.
Truncated Milk Fat Globule-EGF-like Factor 8 Ameliorates Liver Fibrosis via Inhibition of Integrin-TGFβ Receptor Interaction
Authors: An Geun Ho , Lee Jaehun , Jin Xiong , Chung Jinwoo , Kim Joon-Chul , Park Jung-Hyuck , Kim Minkyung , Han Choongseong , Kim Jong-Hoon , Woo Dong-Hun
Published: October 2021

Milk fat globule-EGF factor 8 (MFG-E8) protein is known as an immunomodulator in various diseases, and we previously demonstrated the anti-fibrotic role of MFG-E8 in liver disease. Here, we present a truncated form of MFG-E8 that provides an advanced therapeutic benefit in treating liver fibrosis. The enhanced therapeutic potential of the modified MFG-E8 was demonstrated in various liver fibrosis animal models, and the efficacy was further confirmed in human hepatic stellate cells and a liver spheroid model. In the subsequent analysis, we found that the modified MFG-E8 more efficiently suppressed transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) signaling than the original form of MFG-E8, and it deactivated the proliferation of hepatic stellate cells in the liver disease environment through interfering with the interactions between integrins (αvβ3 & αvβ5) and TGF-βRI. Furthermore, the protein preferentially delivered in the liver after administration, and the safety profiles of the protein were demonstrated in male and female rat models. Therefore, in conclusion, this modified MFG-E8 provides a promising new therapeutic strategy for treating fibrotic diseases.
A Facile Strategy for the Ion Current and Fluorescence Dual-Lock in Detection: Naphthalic Anhydride Azide (NAA)-Modified Biomimetic Nanochannel Sensor towards H2S
Authors: Wu I , Zhang Dan , Zhang Xuanjun
Published: October 2021

Inspired by biological channels, the electric signal-based artificial nanochannel system exhibits high sensitivity in various analyses. However, ion current may be affected by many other factors, leading to false-positive signals. For reliable detection, in this work, we apply a facile strategy to combine both current signal and fluorescence. Fluorescent probes were conjugated to the nanochannel surface by covalent bonds. By utilizing the specific reduction of azide groups in the probe to amino groups by H2S, a synchronizing change in fluorescence and nanochannel surface charge was established. As a result, both transmembrane ion current and fluorescence intensity showed significant changes. The photoelectric double-checked locking from temporal and spatial variation validly confirmed the response process and protected detection accuracy. The work may provide new ideas for the development of more sophisticated current and fluorescence dual-index nanochannel systems.
The Challenges of Developing Biosensors for Clinical Assessment: A Review
Authors: Prabowo Briliant Adhi , Cabral Patrícia D. , Freitas Paulo , Fernandes Elisabete
Published: October 2021

Emerging research in biosensors has attracted much attention worldwide, particularly in response to the recent pandemic outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Nevertheless, initiating research in biosensing applied to the diagnosis of diseases is still challenging for researchers, be it in the preferences of biosensor platforms, selection of biomarkers, detection strategies, or other aspects (e.g., cutoff values) to fulfill the clinical purpose. There are two sides to the development of a diagnostic tool: the biosensor development side and the clinical side. From the development side, the research engineers seek the typical characteristics of a biosensor: sensitivity, selectivity, linearity, stability, and reproducibility. On the other side are the physicians that expect a diagnostic tool that provides fast acquisition of patient information to obtain an early diagnosis or an efficient patient stratification, which consequently allows for making assertive and efficient clinical decisions. The development of diagnostic devices always involves assay developer researchers working as pivots to bridge both sides whose role is to find detection strategies suitable to the clinical needs by understanding (1) the intended use of the technology and its basic principle and (2) the preferable type of test: qualitative or quantitative, sample matrix challenges, biomarker(s) threshold (cutoff value), and if the system requires a mono- or multiplex assay format. This review highlights the challenges for the development of biosensors for clinical assessment and its broad application in multidisciplinary fields. This review paper highlights the following biosensor technologies: magnetoresistive (MR)-based, transistor-based, quartz crystal microbalance (QCM), and optical-based biosensors. Its working mechanisms are discussed with their pros and cons. The article also gives an overview of the most critical parameters that are optimized by developing a diagnostic tool.
Effect of Al and Mg Doping on Reducing Gases Detection of ZnO Nanoparticles
Authors: Jaballah Soumaya , Alaskar Yazeed , AlShunaifi Ibrahim , Ghiloufi Imed , Neri Giovanni , Bouzidi Chaker , Dahman Hassen , El Mir Lassaad
Published: October 2021

In this work, the main objective is to enhance the gas sensing capability through investigating the effect of Al and Mg doping on ZnO based sensors. ZnO, Mg1% doped ZnO, Al5% doped ZnO and (Al5%, Mg1%) co-doped ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized by a modified sol-gel method. The structural characterization showed the hexagonal crystalline structure of the prepared samples. Morphological characterizations confirmed the nanometric sizes of the NPs (27–57 nm) and elemental composition investigation proved the existence of Al and Mg with low concentrations. The optical characterization showed the high absorbance of the synthesized samples in the UV range. The gas sensing performances of the synthesized samples, prepared in the form of thick films, were investigated. Sensing tests demonstrated the high influence of the Al and Mg on the sensing performances towards H2 and CO gas, respectively. The 5A1MZO-based sensor exhibits high sensitivity and low detection limits to H2 (<2 ppm) and CO (<1 ppm). It showed a response around 70 (at 250 °C) towards 2000 ppm H2 and 2 (at 250 °C) towards CO.
Unilateral Scissor Bite Managed with Prefabricated Functional Appliances in Primary Dentition—A New Interceptive Orthodontic Protocol
Authors: Simsuchin Chaypat , Chen Yong , Huang Shuying , Mallineni Sreekanth Kumar , Zhao Zhihe , Hagg Urban , McGrath Colman
Published: October 2021

A unilateral scissor bite is a type of severe malocclusion in primary dentition that can influence the development of the mandible and face. The present case report describes an interceptive treatment on a 4-year-old girl with a unilateral scissor bite combined with an anterior crossbite, increased reverse overjet, and overbite on a skeletal Class III base. The patient was treated with a new Prefabricated Functional Appliance (PFA) which was modified from a Frankel-III appliance to induce a mandible to move backwards and relieve an occlusion discrepancy of the dental arch, and a functional dental rehabilitation with resin and myofunctional exercises with a PFA which was modified from an oral screen appliance were performed during the treatment. The total treatment time was 11 months and a satisfactory improvement of occlusion and facial esthetics was achieved. This case report presents a new PFA system and treatment protocol in primary dentition which results in a favorable outcome, and the clinical effectiveness of this appliance system warrants further investigation.
Assessing Asymptomatic Malaria Carriage of Plasmodium falciparum and Non-falciparum Species in Children Resident in Nkolbisson, Yaoundé, Cameroon
Authors: Akindeh Nji Mbuh , Ngum Lesley Ngum , Niba Peter Thelma Ngwa , Ali Innocent Mbulli , Ayem Ornella Laetitia Oben , Chedjou Jean Paul Kengne , Fomboh Calvino Tah , Ekollo Aristid Herve Mbange , Mbu’u Cyrille Mbanwi , Mbacham Wilfred Fon
Published: October 2021

Malaria is still a threat to public health as it remains the first endemic disease in the world. It is a pervasive parasitic disease in tropical and subtropical regions where asymptomatic malaria infection among humans serves as a significant reservoir for transmission. A rapid and correct diagnosis is considered to be an important strategy in the control of the disease especially in children, who are the most vulnerable group. This study assessed the prevalence of asymptomatic malaria in children at the Nkolbisson health area in Yaoundé, Cameroon. A cross-sectional study design and a convenience sampling plan were used. A total of 127 participants were recruited after informed and signed consent from parents and/or guardians. Blood samples were collected by finger-pricking and venipuncture from children aged 6 months to 10 years and then screened for asymptomatic parasitemia by a rapid diagnostic test (RDT), light microscopy (LM) staining with Giemsa and 18S rRNA polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for speciation. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 20 software. The study identified 85 children who were positive from the PCR, 95 positive from the RDT and 71 from the LM, revealing a malaria prevalence of 66.9%, 74.8% and 55.9%, respectively. The prevalence was not observed to be dependent on the sex and age group of the participants. Plasmodium falciparum was the predominant species followed by Plasmodium malariae and then Plasmodium ovale. The RDT and LM had the same sensitivity (90.6%) with a slight difference in their specificity (RDT: 57.1%; LM: 54.8%). The RDT also demonstrated higher positive and negative predictive values compared with those of the LM.
Information Geometry, Fluctuations, Non-Equilibrium Thermodynamics, and Geodesics in Complex Systems
Authors: Kim Eun-jin
Published: October 2021

Information theory provides an interdisciplinary method to understand important phenomena in many research fields ranging from astrophysical and laboratory fluids/plasmas to biological systems. In particular, information geometric theory enables us to envision the evolution of non-equilibrium processes in terms of a (dimensionless) distance by quantifying how information unfolds over time as a probability density function (PDF) evolves in time. Here, we discuss some recent developments in information geometric theory focusing on time-dependent dynamic aspects of non-equilibrium processes (e.g., time-varying mean value, time-varying variance, or temperature, etc.) and their thermodynamic and physical/biological implications. We compare different distances between two given PDFs and highlight the importance of a path-dependent distance for a time-dependent PDF. We then discuss the role of the information rate Γ=dLdt and relative entropy in non-equilibrium thermodynamic relations (entropy production rate, heat flux, dissipated work, non-equilibrium free energy, etc.), and various inequalities among them. Here, L is the information length representing the total number of statistically distinguishable states a PDF evolves through over time. We explore the implications of a geodesic solution in information geometry for self-organization and control.
A New Generator of Probability Models: The Exponentiated Sine-G Family for Lifetime Studies
Authors: Muhammad Mustapha , Alshanbari Huda M. , Alanzi Ayed R. A. , Liu Lixia , Sami Waqas , Chesneau Christophe , Jamal Farrukh
Published: October 2021

In this article, we propose the exponentiated sine-generated family of distributions. Some important properties are demonstrated, such as the series representation of the probability density function, quantile function, moments, stress-strength reliability, and Rényi entropy. A particular member, called the exponentiated sine Weibull distribution, is highlighted; we analyze its skewness and kurtosis, moments, quantile function, residual mean and reversed mean residual life functions, order statistics, and extreme value distributions. Maximum likelihood estimation and Bayes estimation under the square error loss function are considered. Simulation studies are used to assess the techniques, and their performance gives satisfactory results as discussed by the mean square error, confidence intervals, and coverage probabilities of the estimates. The stress-strength reliability parameter of the exponentiated sine Weibull model is derived and estimated by the maximum likelihood estimation method. Also, nonparametric bootstrap techniques are used to approximate the confidence interval of the reliability parameter. A simulation is conducted to examine the mean square error, standard deviations, confidence intervals, and coverage probabilities of the reliability parameter. Finally, three real applications of the exponentiated sine Weibull model are provided. One of them considers stress-strength data.
Entropy-Based Behavioural Efficiency of the Financial Market
Authors: Dinga Emil , Oprean-Stan Camelia , Tănăsescu Cristina-Roxana , Brătian Vasile , Ionescu Gabriela-Mariana
Published: October 2021

The most known and used abstract model of the financial market is based on the concept of the informational efficiency (EMH) of that market. The paper proposes an alternative which could be named the behavioural efficiency of the financial market, which is based on the behavioural entropy instead of the informational entropy. More specifically, the paper supports the idea that, in the financial market, the only measure (if any) of the entropy is the available behaviours indicated by the implicit information. Therefore, the behavioural entropy is linked to the concept of behavioural efficiency. The paper argues that, in fact, in the financial markets, there is not a (real) informational efficiency, but there exists a behavioural efficiency instead. The proposal is based both on a new typology of information in the financial market (which provides the concept of implicit information—that is, that information ”translated” by the economic agents from observing the actual behaviours) and on a non-linear (more exactly, a logistic) curve linking the behavioural entropy to the behavioural efficiency of the financial markets. Finally, the paper proposes a synergic overcoming of both EMH and AMH based on the new concept of behavioural entropy in the financial market.
Solar Signage Business Model Design Using the EPSS Framework
Authors: Kwon Hyeog-in , Jeon Yong-su , Baek Bo-hyun
Published: October 2021

The purpose of this study is to design a business model that generates profits by developing eco-friendly convergent products. This study proposes a new concept of solar signage in the digital signage system that helps carbon emission reduction. This study developed a solar signage business model using the eco-science methodology specialized in manufacturing servitization. Following the ecosystem platform service strategy (EPSS) framework of eco-science optimized for convergent industry service design, this study implemented service derivation, convergent ecosystem definition, and business model development. The developed business model was evaluated by 10 experts in the field. The business model obtained 43 points, which exceeded the standard commercialization decision cutoff of 35 points. This study’s results imply that the business model is developed from an integrative perspective and defines the convergent industry ecosystem, a convergent knowledge service methodology, in digital signage. Moreover, through the business model, the perspectives on technological development can be expanded and the model can play an important role in carrying out new industry commercialization based on convergent technologies.
Piezoelectric Power Generation from the Vortex-Induced Vibrations of a Semi-Cylinder Exposed to Water Flow
Authors: Hamdan Christina , Allport John , Sajedin Azadeh
Published: October 2021

The aim of this work is to design a piezoelectric power generation system that extracts power from the vibration of a cantilever beam. A semi-cylinder placed in a water stream and attached to the beam is excited into vortex-induced vibrations (VIV), which triggers the piezoelectric deformation. The mechanical system is modelled using parametric equations based on Hamilton’s extended principle for the cantilever beam and the modified Van der Pol model for the bluff body (the semi-cylinder). These equations are simulated using the MATLAB software. The dimensions of the model, the flow velocity and the resistance are treated as design parameters and an optimization study is conducted using MATLAB to determine the combination of optimal values at which maximum power is extracted. The key findings of this research lie in the identification of the effect of changing the design parameters on output power. In addition to the numerical simulation, a finite element analysis is carried out on the bluff body and the hydrodynamic forces and velocity profiles are observed. It is determined that the vibration amplitudes increase with increasing diameter of the bluff body, length of the bluff body and water velocity.
Mathematical Modeling of an Electrotechnical Complex of a Power Unit Based on Hydrogen Fuel Cells for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
Authors: Vasyukov Ivan V. , Pavlenko Alexander V. , Puzin Vladimir S. , Batishchev Denis V. , Bolshenko Irina A.
Published: October 2021

The issues of mathematical and numerical simulation of an electrical complex of a power plant based on hydrogen fuel cells with a voltage step-down converter were considered. The work was aimed at developing a mathematical model that would provide for determining the most loaded operation mode of the complex components. The existing mathematical models do not consider the effect of such processes as the charge and discharge of the battery backup power supply on the power plant components. They often do not consider the nonlinearity of the fuel cell output voltage. This paper offers a mathematical model of an electrical complex based on the circuit analysis. The model combines a well-known physical model of a fuel cell based on a potential difference and a model of a step-down converter with a battery backup power supply developed by the authors. A method of configuring a fuel cell model based on the experimental current–voltage characteristic by the least-squares method has been proposed. The developed model provides for determining currents and voltages in all components of the power plant both in the nominal operating mode and in the mode of limiting the power consumed from the fuel cell when the battery backup power supply is being charged. The correctness of the calculated ratios and the mathematical model has been confirmed experimentally. Using the proposed model, a 1300 W power plant with a specific power of 529.3 W∙h/kg was developed and tested.
Metabolic Disorders in Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Gavriatopoulou Maria , Paschou Stavroula A. , Ntanasis-Stathopoulos Ioannis , Dimopoulos Meletios A.
Published: October 2021

Multiple myeloma (MM) is the second most common hematological malignancy and is attributed to monoclonal proliferation of plasma cells in the bone marrow. Cancer cells including myeloma cells deregulate metabolic pathways to ensure proliferation, growth, survival and avoid immune surveillance, with glycolysis and glutaminolysis being the most identified procedures involved. These disorders are considered a hallmark of cancer and the alterations performed ensure that enough energy is available for rapid cell proliferation. An association between metabolic syndrome, inflammatory cytokinesand incidence of MM has been also described, while the use of metformin and statins has been identified as a positive prognostic factor for the disease course. In this review, we aim to present the metabolic disorders that occur in multiple myeloma, the potential defects on the immune system and the potential advantage of targeting the dysregulated pathways in order to enhance antitumor therapeutics.
PARP-1-Associated Pathological Processes: Inhibition by Natural Polyphenols
Authors: Maluchenko Natalya V. , Feofanov Alexey V. , Studitsky Vasily M.
Published: October 2021

Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP-1) is a nuclear enzyme involved in processes of cell cycle regulation, DNA repair, transcription, and replication. Hyperactivity of PARP-1 induced by changes in cell homeostasis promotes development of chronic pathological processes leading to cell death during various metabolic disorders, cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. In contrast, tumor growth is accompanied by a moderate activation of PARP-1 that supports survival of tumor cells due to enhancement of DNA lesion repair and resistance to therapy by DNA damaging agents. That is why PARP inhibitors (PARPi) are promising agents for the therapy of tumor and metabolic diseases. A PARPi family is rapidly growing partly due to natural polyphenols discovered among plant secondary metabolites. This review describes mechanisms of PARP-1 participation in the development of various pathologies, analyzes multiple PARP-dependent pathways of cell degeneration and death, and discusses representative plant polyphenols, which can inhibit PARP-1 directly or suppress unwanted PARP-dependent cellular processes.
Melatonin Modulates Plant Tolerance to Heavy Metal Stress: Morphological Responses to Molecular Mechanisms
Authors: Hoque Md. Najmol , Tahjib-Ul-Arif Md. , Hannan Afsana , Sultana Naima , Akhter Shirin , Hasanuzzaman Md. , Akter Fahmida , Hossain Md. Sazzad , Sayed Md. Abu , Hasan Md. Toufiq , Skalicky Milan , Li Xiangnan , Brestič Marián
Published: October 2021

Heavy metal toxicity is one of the most devastating abiotic stresses. Heavy metals cause serious damage to plant growth and productivity, which is a major problem for sustainable agriculture. It adversely affects plant molecular physiology and biochemistry by generating osmotic stress, ionic imbalance, oxidative stress, membrane disorganization, cellular toxicity, and metabolic homeostasis. To improve and stimulate plant tolerance to heavy metal stress, the application of biostimulants can be an effective approach without threatening the ecosystem. Melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine), a biostimulator, plant growth regulator, and antioxidant, promotes plant tolerance to heavy metal stress by improving redox and nutrient homeostasis, osmotic balance, and primary and secondary metabolism. It is important to perceive the complete and detailed regulatory mechanisms of exogenous and endogenous melatonin-mediated heavy metal-toxicity mitigation in plants to identify potential research gaps that should be addressed in the future. This review provides a novel insight to understand the multifunctional role of melatonin in reducing heavy metal stress and the underlying molecular mechanisms.
The Pathogenesis of End-Stage Renal Disease from the Standpoint of the Theory of General Pathological Processes of Inflammation
Authors: Gusev Evgenii , Solomatina Liliya , Zhuravleva Yulia , Sarapultsev Alexey
Published: October 2021

Chronic kidney disease can progress to end-stage chronic renal disease (ESRD), which requires the use of replacement therapy (dialysis or kidney transplant) in life-threatening conditions. In ESRD, irreversible changes in the kidneys are associated with systemic changes of proinflammatory nature and dysfunctions of internal organs, skeletal muscles, and integumentary tissues. The common components of ESRD pathogenesis, regardless of the initial nosology, are (1) local (in the kidneys) and systemic chronic low-grade inflammation (ChLGI) as a risk factor for diabetic kidney disease and its progression to ESRD, (2) inflammation of the classical type characteristic of primary and secondary autoimmune glomerulonephritis and infectious recurrent pyelonephritis, as well as immune reactions in kidney allograft rejection, and (3) chronic systemic inflammation (ChSI), pathogenetically characterized by latent microcirculatory disorders and manifestations of paracoagulation. The development of ChSI is closely associated with programmed hemodialysis in ESRD, as well as with the systemic autoimmune process. Consideration of ESRD pathogenesis from the standpoint of the theory of general pathological processes opens up the scope not only for particular but also for universal approaches to conducting pathogenetic therapies and diagnosing and predicting systemic complications in severe nephropathies.
TRPA1 Expression and Pathophysiology in Immune Cells
Authors: Naert Robbe , López-Requena Alejandro , Talavera Karel
Published: October 2021

The non-selective cation channel TRPA1 is best known as a broadly-tuned sensor expressed in nociceptive neurons, where it plays key functions in chemo-, thermo-, and mechano-sensing. However, in this review we illustrate how this channel is expressed also in cells of the immune system. TRPA1 has been detected, mainly with biochemical techniques, in eosinophils, mast cells, macrophages, dendritic cells, T cells, and B cells, but not in neutrophils. Functional measurements, in contrast, remain very scarce. No studies have been reported in basophils and NK cells. TRPA1 in immune cells has been linked to arthritis (neutrophils), anaphylaxis and atopic dermatitis (mast cells), atherosclerosis, renal injury, cardiac hypertrophy and inflammatory bowel disease (macrophages), and colitis (T cells). The contribution of TRPA1 to immunity is dual: as detector of cell stress, tissue injury, and exogenous noxious stimuli it leads to defensive responses, but in conditions of aberrant regulation it contributes to the exacerbation of inflammatory conditions. Future studies should aim at characterizing the functional properties of TRPA1 in immune cells, an essential step in understanding its roles in inflammation and its potential as therapeutic target.
A Review of Recent Developments in Turner Syndrome Research
Authors: Huang Allen C. , Olson Susan B. , Maslen Cheryl L.
Published: October 2021

Turner syndrome is a rare disorder resulting from complete or partial loss of the second sex chromosome. Common manifestations include delayed growth, premature ovarian failure, congenital heart defects, endocrine disorders, lymphedema, and webbed neck. People with Turner syndrome have significantly increased mortality risk primarily due to cardiovascular abnormalities. The mechanisms that lead to these defects are not completely understood and are obscured by the significant variability of both karyotype and phenotype without consistent correlation between the two. This paper presents a review of the recent literature surrounding the symptoms, mechanisms, diagnosis, and treatment of Turner syndrome with a focus on cardiovascular manifestations. With technological advancements in genetics, the molecular processes of Turner syndrome have begun to be dissected. Certain genes on the X chromosome that typically escape inactivation have been implicated in both specific manifestations and broader risk categories. Recently identified genome-wide epigenetic changes may help explain the variability in presentation. It remains unclear as to how the combination of these factors results in the overall clinical picture, but advances in genomic, genetic, epigenetic, and -omics technology hold promise for providing insights that will improve the medical management of individuals with Turner syndrome.
Single-Shot Multicontrast X-ray Imaging for In Situ Visualization of Chemical Reaction Products
Authors: Zakharova Margarita , Mikhaylov Andrey , Vlnieska Vitor , Kunka Danays
Published: October 2021

We present the application of single-shot multicontrast X-ray imaging with an inverted Hartmann mask to the time-resolved in situ visualization of chemical reaction products. The real-time monitoring of an illustrative chemical reaction indicated the formation of the precipitate by the absorption, differential phase, and scattering contrast images obtained from a single projection. Through these contrast channels, the formation of the precipitate along the mixing line of the reagents, the border between the solid and the solution, and the presence of the scattering structures of 100–200 nm sizes were observed. The measurements were performed in a flexible and robust setup, which can be tailored to various imaging applications at different time scales.