bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dengue Virus Dysregulates Master Transcription Factors and PI3K/AKT/mTOR Signaling Pathway in Megakaryocytes
Authors: Lahon Anismrita , Arya Ravi P. , Banerjea Akhil C.
Published: August 2021

Dengue virus (DENV) infection can cause either self-limited dengue fever or hemorrhagic complications. Low platelet count is one of the manifestations of dengue fever. Megakaryocytes are the sole producers of platelets. However, the role of both host and viral factors in megakaryocyte development, maturation, and platelet production is largely unknown in DENV infection. PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway plays a significant role in cell survival, maturation, and megakaryocyte development. We were interested to check whether pathogenic insult can impact this pathway. We observed decreased expression of most of the major key molecules associated with the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway in DENV infected MEG-01 cells. In this study, the involvement of PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway in megakaryocyte development and maturation was confirmed with the use of specific inhibitors in infected MEG-01 cells. Our results showed that direct pharmacologic inhibition of this pathway greatly impacted megakaryopoiesis associated molecule CD61 and some essential transcription factors (GATA-1, GATA-2, and NF-E2). Additionally, we observed apoptosis in megakaryocytes due to DENV infection. Our results may suggest that DENV impairs PI3K/AKT/mTOR axis and molecules involved in the development and maturation of megakaryocytes. It is imperative to investigate the role of these molecules in the context of megakaryopoiesis during DENV infection to better understand the pathways and mechanisms, which in turn might provide insights into the development of antiviral strategies.
The Link between Social Wellbeing, Belonging, and Connectedness of International Students in Australian High Schools
Authors: Hurem Aida , Rowan Leonie , Grootenboer Peter
Published: August 2021

The number of international students enrolled in Australian high schools has increased dramatically over the last decade. However, limited research has investigated the unique needs and experiences of these students. In response to a general lack of knowledge relating to this population, a sample of 225 international high school students (93 males, 129 females, and 3 other) enrolled in years 10–12 in Australian independent schools were surveyed to investigate their social wellbeing. The survey included measures of social wellbeing, online and face-to-face connectedness, sense of belonging to their home country as well as in Australia, and the strength of their school connectedness, with the aim of identifying the most significant factors that predicted social wellbeing. Although all the factors made some contribution to social wellbeing, the strongest predictors were a sense of Australian belonging and school connectedness. We also investigated the students’ perceptions around connectedness to their social community and face-to-face and online environments, as well as whether there were any links between online connectedness, social wellbeing, and belonging. While no statistically significant relationships were revealed for online and face-to-face connectedness and their impact upon students’ social wellbeing and sense of belonging, the findings revealed the nature of positive and online experiences and the fact that while risks of online activities were substantial, in general, participating in online activity brought about more benefits than harm. Additionally, an unexpected finding revealed that, over time, the international students’ sense of belonging and social wellbeing steadily decreased, which indicates an increased need for support for these students as they progress through the student life in Australia.
Low Nitrous Oxide Emissions in a Boreal Spruce Forest Soil, Despite Long-Term Fertilization
Authors: Rütting Tobias , Björsne Anna-Karin , Weslien Per , Kasimir Åsa , Klemedtsson Leif
Published: August 2021

Nitrogen (N) fertilization can increase stem wood production by several hundred percent in boreal forests. At the same time, there are concerns about the environmental consequences of N fertilization, especially considering losses of the greenhouse gas nitrous oxide (N2O) to the atmosphere. Soils are a large contributor to N2O emissions on a global scale. The aim of this study was to investigate the consequences of long-term nutrient optimization fertilization on N2O emissions in a boreal forest in Northern Sweden. Field N2O flux measurements were conducted during 2 years with manual and automatic chambers, as well as gas probes in the snow. The N2O emissions were generally low during the whole period of measurements, both from the control and fertilized plots. The emissions were generally highest during the winters, as well as the variability in the observed values. Overall, N2O emissions from fertilized plots were about twice the control, which could be explained by changes in the soil carbon-to-nitrogen ratio.
Childhood Vaccinations and Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Esposito Susanna , Mariotti Zani Elena , Torelli Lisa , Scavone Sara , Petraroli Maddalena , Patianna Viviana , Predieri Barbara , Iughetti Lorenzo , Principi Nicola
Published: August 2021

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is the most common paediatric endocrine disease, and its frequency has been found to increase worldwide. Similar to all conditions associated with poorly regulated glucose metabolism, T1D carries an increased risk of infection. Consequently, careful compliance by T1D children with schedules officially approved for child immunization is strongly recommended. However, because patients with T1D show persistent and profound limitations in immune function, vaccines may evoke a less efficient immune response, with corresponding lower protection. Moreover, T1D is an autoimmune condition that develops in genetically susceptible individuals and some data regarding T1D triggering factors appear to indicate that infections, mainly those due to viruses, play a major role. Accordingly, the use of viral live attenuated vaccines is being debated. In this narrative review, we discussed the most effective and safe use of vaccines in patients at risk of or with overt T1D. Literature analysis showed that several problems related to the use of vaccines in children with T1D have not been completely resolved. There are few studies regarding the immunogenicity and efficacy of vaccines in T1D children, and the need for different immunization schedules has not been precisely established. Fortunately, the previous presumed relationship between vaccine administration and T1D appears to have been debunked, though some doubts regarding rotavirus vaccines remain. Further studies are needed to completely resolve the problems related to vaccine administration in T1D patients. In the meantime, the use of vaccines remains extensively recommended in children with this disease.
CDK13-Mediated Cell Cycle Disorder Promotes Tumorigenesis of High HMGA2 Expression Gastric Cancer
Authors: Wu Zhouying , Wang Min , Li Feng , Wang Feng , Jia Jianchao , Feng Zongqi , Huo Xue , Yang Jie , Jin Wen , Sa Rina , Gao Wenming , Yu Lan
Published: August 2021

The inhibitor of CDK4/6 has been clinically used for treating certain types of cancer which are characterized by G0/G1 acceleration induced by the CDK4/6-RB1 pathway. On the contrary, the cell cycle–related molecules are abnormal in over 50% of the patients with gastric cancer (GC), but the efficiency of inhibiting CDK4/6 does not work well as it is expected. In our study, we found HMGA2 promotes GC through accelerating the S–G2/M phase transition, instead of G0/G1. We also found CDK13 is the direct target gene of HMGA2. Importantly, we analyzed 200 pairs of GC and the adjacent tissue and proved the positive relation between HMGA2 and CDK13; moreover, high expression of both genes predicts a poorer prognosis than the expression of single gene does. We explored the effect of the novel CDK12/13 inhibiting agent, SR-4835, on high HMGA2 expression GC and found inhibition of both genes jointly could reach a satisfied result. Therefore, we suggest that inhibition of CDK13 and HMGA2 simultaneously could be an effective strategy for high HMGA2 expression GC. To detect the expression of both genes simultaneously and individually could be of benefit to predict prognosis for GC.
Compressed Sensing of Extracellular Neurophysiology Signals: A Review
Authors: Sun Biao , Zhao Wenfeng
Published: August 2021

This article presents a comprehensive survey of literature on the compressed sensing (CS) of neurophysiology signals. CS is a promising technique to achieve high-fidelity, low-rate, and hardware-efficient neural signal compression tasks for wireless streaming of massively parallel neural recording channels in next-generation neural interface technologies. The main objective is to provide a timely retrospective on applying the CS theory to the extracellular brain signals in the past decade. We will present a comprehensive review on the CS-based neural recording system architecture, the CS encoder hardware exploration and implementation, the sparse representation of neural signals, and the signal reconstruction algorithms. Deep learning-based CS methods are also discussed and compared with the traditional CS-based approaches. We will also extend our discussion to cover the technical challenges and prospects in this emerging field.
Consistent B Cell Receptor Immunoglobulin Features Between Siblings in Familial Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Authors: Kolijn P. Martijn , Muggen Alice F. , Ljungström Viktor , Agathangelidis Andreas , Wolvers-Tettero Ingrid L. M. , Beverloo H. Berna , Pál Karol , Hengeveld Paul J. , Darzentas Nikos , Hendriks Rudi W. , Dongen Jacques J. M. van , Rosenquist Richard , Langerak Anton W.
Published: August 2021

Key processes in the onset and evolution of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) are thought to include chronic (antigenic) activation of mature B cells through the B cell receptor (BcR), signals from the microenvironment, and acquisition of genetic alterations. Here we describe three families in which two or more siblings were affected by CLL. We investigated whether there are immunogenetic similarities in the leukemia-specific immunoglobulin heavy (IGH) and light (IGL/IGK) chain gene rearrangements of the siblings in each family. Furthermore, we performed array analysis to study if similarities in CLL-associated chromosomal aberrations are present within each family and screened for somatic mutations using paired tumor/normal whole-genome sequencing (WGS). In two families a consistent IGHV gene mutational status (one IGHV-unmutated, one IGHV-mutated) was observed. Intriguingly, the third family with four affected siblings was characterized by usage of the lambda IGLV3-21 gene, with the hallmark R110 mutation of the recently described clinically aggressive IGLV3-21R110 subset. In this family, the CLL-specific rearrangements in two siblings could be assigned to either stereotyped subset #2 or the immunogenetically related subset #169, both of which belong to the broader IGLV3-21R110 subgroup. Consistent patterns of cytogenetic aberrations were encountered in all three families. Furthermore, the CLL clones carried somatic mutations previously associated with IGHV mutational status, cytogenetic aberrations and stereotyped subsets, respectively. From these findings, we conclude that similarities in immunogenetic characteristics in familial CLL, in combination with genetic aberrations acquired, point towards shared underlying mechanisms behind CLL development within each family.
Exosomes as Smart Nanoplatforms for Diagnosis and Therapy of Cancer
Authors: Zhao Yuying , Liu Piaoxue , Tan Hanxu , Chen Xiaojia , Wang Qi , Chen Tongkai
Published: August 2021

Exosomes are composed of a lipid bilayer membrane, containing proteins, nucleic acids, DNA, RNA, etc., derived from donor cells. They have a size range of approximately 30-150 nm. The intrinsic characteristics of exosomes, including efficient cellular uptake, low immunogenicity, low toxicity, intrinsic ability to traverse biological barriers, and inherent targeting ability, facilitate their application to the drug delivery system. Here, we review the generation, uptake, separation, and purification methods of exosomes, focusing on their application as carriers in tumor diagnosis and treatment, especially in brain tumors, as well as the patent applications of exosomes in recent years.
Clear Cell Papillary Renal Cell Carcinoma Shares Distinct Molecular Characteristics and may be Significantly Associated With Higher Risk of Developing Second Primary Malignancy
Authors: Tian Xi , Xu Wen-Hao , Wu Jun-Long , Gan Hua-Lei , Wang Hong-Kai , Gu Wei-Jie , Qu Yuan-Yuan , Zhang Hai-Liang , Ye Ding-Wei
Published: August 2021

Traditionally, clear cell papillary renal cell carcinoma (ccpRCC) was considered to share similar molecular and histological characteristics with clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) and papillary renal cell carcinoma (pRCC). Here we aimed to identify somatic and germline variants of ccpRCC. For this purpose, we conducted whole-exome sequencing to detect somatic variants in the tissues of 18 patients with pathologically confirmed ccpRCC, who underwent surgical treatment at Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center. Targeted sequencing was conducted to detect germline variants in paired tumor or normal tissues or blood. Somatic and germline variants of ccRCC and Renal cell carcinoma included in The Cancer Genome Atlas data and other published data were analyzed as well. The molecular profiles of ccpRCC, ccRCC and pRCC were compared. Among the 387 somatic variants identified, TCEB1 (3/18) and VHL (3/18) variants occurred at the highest frequencies. Germline mutation detection showed that nine variants associated with Fanconi anemia (VAFAs) pathway (FANCA, 6/18; FANCI, 3/18) were identified in 18 ccpRCC patients. Among ccpRCC patients with VAFAs, five out of eight patients had second primary malignancy or family history of cancer. Somatic variants characteristics may distinguish ccpRCC from ccRCC or pRCC and germline VAFAs may be a molecular characterization of ccpRCC. Compared with ccRCC or pRCC, ccpRCC patients may be significantly correlated with higher risk of developing second primary malignancy.
Model-Based Design Optimization of Soft Polymeric Domes Used as Nonlinear Biasing Systems for Dielectric Elastomer Actuators
Authors: Croce Sipontina , Neu Julian , Hubertus Jonas , Seelecke Stefan , Schultes Guenter , Rizzello Gianluca
Published: August 2021

Due to their unique combination of features such as large deformation, high compliance, lightweight, energy efficiency, and scalability, dielectric elastomer (DE) transducers appear as highly promising for many application fields, such as soft robotics, wearables, as well as micro electro-mechanical systems (MEMS). To generate a stroke, a membrane DE actuator (DEA) must be coupled with a mechanical biasing system. It is well known that nonlinear elements, such as negative-rate biasing springs (NBS), permit a remarkable increase in the DEA stroke in comparison to standard linear springs. Common types of NBS, however, are generally manufactured with rigid components (e.g., steel beams, permanent magnets), thus they appear as unsuitable for the development of compliant actuators for soft robots and wearables. At the same time, rigid NBSs are hard to miniaturize and integrate in DE-based MEMS devices. This work presents a novel type of soft DEA system, in which a large stroke is obtained by using a fully polymeric dome as the NBS element. More specifically, in this paper we propose a model-based design procedure for high-performance DEAs, in which the stroke is maximized by properly optimizing the geometry of the biasing dome. First, a finite element model of the biasing system is introduced, describing how the geometric parameters of the dome affect its mechanical response. After conducting experimental calibration and validation, the model is used to develop a numerical design algorithm which finds the optimal dome geometry for a given DE membrane characteristics. Based on the optimized dome design, a soft DEA prototype is finally assembled and experimentally tested.
“Diabetes Makes You Feel Lonely When You’re the Only One”: A Qualitative Study of Identity Development among Young People Living at a Residential Care Facility for People with Diabetes
Authors: Grabowski Dan , Jespersen Louise Norman , Johansen Lise Bro
Published: August 2021

Young people with poorly regulated diabetes often experience recurrent hospitalization, behavioral problems, higher incidence of psychiatric disorders, as well as family dysfunction. It is crucial that young people with diabetes learn to manage their diabetes effectively. Some young people with diabetes cannot manage their diabetes at home and have to live at a residential care unit for young people with diabetes. In this study we highlight the identity development of these young people. The data consist of semi-structured interviews with current and former residents of a care facility for young people with diabetes. The analysis revealed three themes: (1) the young people report a high level of personal growth and maturity after moving to the care home; (2) the importance of identifying with others and how forming relations plays a significant role in the young people’s personal development; and (3) the young people have a constant fear of being different. Being able to define and shape one’s identity against a background that includes a meaningful perception of diabetes is key to understanding why life at the care home is so identity-changing for the young residents.
Mineral-Ecological Cropping Systems—A New Approach to Improve Ecosystem Services by Farming without Chemical Synthetic Plant Protection
Authors: Zimmermann Beate , Claß-Mahler Ingrid , von Cossel Moritz , Lewandowski Iris , Weik Jan , Spiller Achim , Nitzko Sina , Lippert Christian , Krimly Tatjana , Pergner Isabell , Zörb Christian , Wimmer Monika A. , Dier Markus , Schurr Frank M. , Pagel Jörn , Riemenschneider Adriana , Kehlenbeck Hella , Feike Til , Klocke Bettina , Lieb Robin , Kühne Stefan , Krengel-Horney Sandra , Gitzel Julia , El-Hasan Abbas , Thomas Stefan , Rieker Martin , Schmid Karl , Streck Thilo , Ingwersen Joachim , Ludewig Uwe , Neumann Günter , Maywald Niels , Müller Torsten , Bradáčová Klára , Göbel Markus , Kandeler Ellen , Marhan Sven , Schuster Romina , Griepentrog Hans-W. , Reiser David , Stana Alexander , Graeff-Hönninger Simone , Munz Sebastian , Otto Dina , Gerhards Roland , Saile Marcus , Hermann Wilfried , Schwarz Jürgen , Frank Markus , Kruse Michael , Piepho Hans-Peter , Rosenkranz Peter , Wallner Klaus , Zikeli Sabine , Petschenka Georg , Schönleber Nicole , Vögele Ralf T. , Bahrs Enno
Published: August 2021

The search for approaches to a holistic sustainable agriculture requires the development of new cropping systems that provide additional ecosystem services beyond biomass supply for food, feed, material, and energy use. The reduction of chemical synthetic plant protection products is a key instrument to protect vulnerable natural resources such as groundwater and biodiversity. Together with an optimal use of mineral fertilizer, agroecological practices, and precision agriculture technologies, a complete elimination of chemical synthetic plant protection in mineral-ecological cropping systems (MECSs) may not only improve the environmental performance of agroecosystems, but also ensure their yield performance. Therefore, the development of MECSs aims to improve the overall ecosystem services of agricultural landscapes by (i) improving the provision of regulating ecosystem services compared to conventional cropping systems and (ii) improving the supply of provisioning ecosystem services compared to organic cropping systems. In the present review, all relevant research levels and aspects of this new farming concept are outlined and discussed based on a comprehensive literature review and the ongoing research project “Agriculture 4.0 without Chemical-Synthetic Plant Protection”.
A Qualitative and Comprehensive Analysis of Caries Susceptibility for Dental Fluorosis Patients
Authors: Li Qianrui , Shen Jiaqi , Qin Tao , Zhou Ge , Li Yifeng , Chen Zhu , Li Mingyun
Published: August 2021

Dental fluorosis (DF) is an endemic disease caused by excessive fluoride exposure during childhood. Previous studies mainly focused on the acid resistance of fluorotic enamel and failed to reach a consensus on the topic of the caries susceptibility of DF patients. In this review, we discuss the role of DF classification in assessing this susceptibility and follow the “four factors theory” in weighing the pros and cons of DF classification in terms of host factor (dental enamel and saliva), food factor, bacteria factor, and DF treatment factor. From our analysis, we find that susceptibility is possibly determined by various factors such as the extent of structural and chemical changes in fluorotic enamel, eating habits, fluoride levels in diets and in the oral cavity, changes in quantity and quality of saliva, and/or oral hygiene. Thus, a universal conclusion regarding caries susceptibility might not exist, instead depending on each individual’s situation.
Topically Applied Bacteriophage to Control Multi-Drug Resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae Infected Wound in a Rat Model
Authors: Fayez Mohamed S. , Hakim Toka A. , Agwa Mona M. , Abdelmoteleb Mohamed , Aly Rania G. , Montaser Nada N. , Abdelsattar Abdallah S. , Rezk Nouran , El-Shibiny Ayman
Published: August 2021

(Background): Multi-drug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (MDR-KP) has steadily grown beyond antibiotic control. Wound infection kills many patients each year, due to the entry of multi-drug resistant (MDR) bacterial pathogens into the skin gaps. However, a bacteriophage (phage) is considered to be a potential antibiotic alternative for treating bacterial infections. This research aims at isolating and characterizing a specific phage and evaluate its topical activity against MDR-KP isolated from infected wounds. (Methods): A lytic phage ZCKP8 was isolated by using a clinical isolate KP/15 as a host strain then characterized. Additionally, phage was assessed for its in vitro host range, temperature, ultraviolet (UV), and pH sensitivity. The therapeutic efficiency of phage suspension and a phage-impeded gel vehicle were assessed in vivo against a K. pneumoniae infected wound on a rat model. (Result): The phage produced a clear plaque and was classified as Siphoviridae. The phage inhibited KP/15 growth in vitro in a dose-dependent pattern and it was found to resist high temperature (˂70 °C) and was primarily active at pH 5; moreover, it showed UV stability for 45 min. Phage-treated K. pneumoniae inoculated wounds showed the highest healing efficiency by lowering the infection. The quality of the regenerated skin was evidenced via histological examination compared to the untreated control group. (Conclusions): This research represents the evidence of effective phage therapy against MDR-KP.
Risk Assessment of Oxidative Stress Induced by Metal Ions Released from Fixed Orthodontic Appliances during Treatment and Indications for Supportive Antioxidant Therapy: A Narrative Review
Authors: Primožič Jasmina , Poljšak Borut , Jamnik Polona , Kovač Vito , Čanadi Jurešić Gordana , Spalj Stjepan
Published: August 2021

The treatment with fixed orthodontic appliances could have an important role in the induction of oxidative stress and associated negative consequences. Because of the simultaneous effects of corrosion, deformation, friction, and mechanical stress on fixed orthodontic appliances during treatment, degradation of orthodontic brackets and archwires occurs, causing higher concentrations of metal ions in the oral cavity. Corroded appliances cause the release of metal ions, which may lead to the increased values of reactive oxygen species (ROS) due to metal-catalyzed free radical reactions. Chromium, iron, nickel, cobalt, titanium, and molybdenum all belong to the group of transition metals that can be subjected to redox reactions to form ROS. The estimation of health risk due to the amount of heavy metals released and the level of selected parameters of oxidative stress generated for the time of treatment with fixed orthodontic appliances is presented. Approaches to avoid oxidative stress and recommendations for the preventive use of topical or systemic antioxidants during orthodontic treatment are discussed.
Selenium Nanoparticles as a Natural Antioxidant and Metabolic Regulator in Aquaculture: A Review
Authors: Dawood Mahmoud A. O. , Basuini Mohammed F. El , Yilmaz Sevdan , Abdel-Latif Hany M. R. , Kari Zulhisyam Abdul , Abdul Razab Mohammad Khairul Azhar , Ahmed Hamada A. , Alagawany Mahmoud , Gewaily Mahmoud S.
Published: August 2021

Balanced aquafeed is the key factor for enhancing the productivity of aquatic animals. In this context, aquatic animals require optimal amounts of lipids, proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. The original plant and animals’ ingredients in the basal diets are insufficient to provide aquafeed with suitable amounts of minerals. Concurrently, elements should be incorporated in aquafeed in optimal doses, which differ based on the basal diets’ species, age, size, and composition. Selenium is one of the essential trace elements involved in various metabolic, biological, and physiological functions. Se acts as a precursor for antioxidative enzyme synthesis leading to high total antioxidative capacity. Further, Se can enhance the immune response and the tolerance of aquatic animals to infectious diseases. Several metabolic mechanisms, such as thyroid hormone production, cytokine formation, fecundity, and DNA synthesis, require sufficient Se addition. The recent progress in the nanotechnology industry is also applied in the production of Se nanoparticles. Indeed, Se nanoparticles are elaborated as more soluble and bioavailable than the organic and non-organic forms. In aquaculture, multiple investigations have elaborated the role of Se nanoparticles on the performances and wellbeing of aquatic animals. In this review, the outputs of recent studies associated with the role of Se nanoparticles on aquatic animals’ performances were simplified and presented for more research and development.
Extracellular Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) Production in Fresh Donkey Sperm Exposed to Reductive Stress, Oxidative Stress and NETosis
Authors: Yánez-Ortiz Iván , Catalán Jaime , Mateo-Otero Yentel , Dordas-Perpinyà Marta , Gacem Sabrina , Yeste Natalia , Bassols Anna , Yeste Marc , Miró Jordi
Published: August 2021

Jenny shows a large endometrial reaction after semen influx to the uterus with a large amount of polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMN) migrating into the uterine lumen. PMN act as a sperm selection mechanism through phagocytosis and NETosis (DNA extrudes and, together with proteins, trap spermatozoa). While a reduced percentage of spermatozoa are phagocytosed by PMN, most are found to be attached to neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). This selection process together with sperm metabolism produces a large amount of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that influence the reproductive success. The present study aimed to determine the extracellular ROS production in both sperm and PMN. With this purpose, (1) donkey sperm were exposed to reductive and oxidative stresses, through adding different concentrations of reduced glutathione (GSH) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), respectively; and (2) PMN were subjected to NETosis in the presence of the whole semen, sperm, seminal plasma (SP) or other activators such as formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (FMLP). Extracellular ROS production (measured as H2O2 levels) was determined with the Amplex® Red Hydrogen Peroxide/Peroxidase Assay Kit. Donkey sperm showed more resilience to oxidative stress than to the reductive one, and GSH treatments led to greater H2O2 extracellular production. Moreover, not only did SP appear to be the main inducer of NETosis in PMN, but it was also able to maintain the extracellular H2O2 levels produced by sperm and NETosis.
Anthocyanins and Functional Compounds Change in a Third-Generation Snacks Prepared Using Extruded Blue Maize, Black Bean, and Chard: An Optimization
Authors: Neder-Suárez David , Lardizabal-Gutiérrez Daniel , Zazueta-Morales José de Jesús , Meléndez-Pizarro Carmen Oralia , Delgado-Nieblas Carlos Iván , Ramírez Wong Benjamín , Gutiérrez-Méndez Néstor , Hernández-Ochoa León Raúl , Quintero-Ramos Armando
Published: August 2021

The effect of extrusion cooking on bioactive compounds in third-generation snacks (TGSE) and microwave-expanded snacks (MWSE) prepared using black bean, blue maize, and chard (FBCS) was evaluated. FBCS was extruded at different moisture contents (MC; 22.2–35.7%), extrusion temperatures (ET; 102–142 °C), and screw speeds (SP; 96–171 rpm). Total anthocyanin content (TAC), contents of individual anthocyanins, viz., cyanidin-3-glucoside, malvidin-3-glucoside, pelargonidin-3-glucoside, pelargonidin-3-5-diglucoside, and delphinidin-3-glucoside chloride, total phenolic content (TPC), antioxidant activity (AA), and color parameters were determined. TAC and individual anthocyanin levels increased with the reduction in ET. ET and MC affected the chemical and color properties; increase in ET caused a significant reduction in TPC and AA. Microwave expansion reduced anthocyanin content and AA, and increased TPC. Extrusion under optimal conditions (29% MC, 111 rpm, and 120 °C) generated products with a high retention of functional compounds, with high TAC (41.81%) and TPC (28.23%). Experimental validation of optimized process parameters yielded an average error of 13.73% from the predicted contents of individual anthocyanins. Results suggest that the TGSE of FBCS obtained by combining extrusion and microwave expansion achieved significant retention of bioactive compounds having potential physiological benefits for humans.
The Impact of Pressure on the Fingerprint Impression: Presentation Attack Detection Scheme
Authors: Husseis Anas , Liu-Jimenez Judith , Sanchez-Reillo Raul
Published: August 2021

Fingerprint recognition systems have been widely deployed in authentication and verification applications, ranging from personal smartphones to border control systems. Recently, the biometric society has raised concerns about presentation attacks that aim to manipulate the biometric system’s final decision by presenting artificial fingerprint traits to the sensor. In this paper, we propose a presentation attack detection scheme that exploits the natural fingerprint phenomena, and analyzes the dynamic variation of a fingerprint’s impression when the user applies additional pressure during the presentation. For that purpose, we collected a novel dynamic dataset with an instructed acquisition scenario. Two sensing technologies are used in the data collection, thermal and optical. Additionally, we collected attack presentations using seven presentation attack instrument species considering the same acquisition circumstances. The proposed mechanism is evaluated following the directives of the standard ISO/IEC 30107. The comparison between ordinary and pressure presentations shows higher accuracy and generalizability for the latter. The proposed approach demonstrates efficient capability of detecting presentation attacks with low bona fide presentation classification error rate (BPCER) where BPCER is 0% for an optical sensor and 1.66% for a thermal sensor at 5% attack presentation classification error rate (APCER) for both.
Design and Implementation of a Lizard-Inspired Robot
Authors: Nansai Shunsuke , Ando Yuki , Itoh Hiroshi , Kamamichi Norihiro
Published: August 2021

The purpose of this paper is to design a lizard-inspired robot driven by a single actuator. Lizard-inspired robots in previous studies had the issue of slippage of their supporting legs. To overcome this issue, a lizard-inspired robot consisting of a four-bar linkage mechanism was designed. The purpose of this paper was achieved through three processes. The first process was kinematic analysis, where the turning angle and stride length of the robot were analyzed. The kinematic analysis results were verified via numerical simulations. The second process was the design and fabrication of the robot. For the robot’s design, both a shuffle-walking method utilizing a claw-shaped leg mechanism and a sliding-rod mechanism for equipping the actuator on the robot’s own coordinates were designed. The third process was experimental verification. The first experimental result was that the claw-shaped leg mechanism was capable of generating an 85.26 N difference in the static frictional force in the longitudinal direction. The other three experimental results were that the robot was capable of driving with 3.51%, 3.16%, and 3.53% error compared to the kinematic analyses, respectively.
Monitoring of Preload Variation of Linear Guide Positioning Stage Using Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Shih Wei-Cheng , Furqanuddin Furqan , Lee Po-Lin , Hung Jui-Pin
Published: August 2021

In this paper, we propose an artificial neural network (ANN) predictive model to identify the linear guide preload based on the measured vibration features of the feeding stage. In this study, the relationship between the contact stiffness and preload level of a linear guide was investigated by an experimental analysis. Furthermore, the stage was assembled with different linear guide preloads for the motion test to assess the vibrations. Vibration levels with changes in preload values and feeding rates were examined. The predictive models were established and verified based on a dataset collected from tests using an ANN approach. The ANN models were shown to have an excellent accuracy of 96.5% in the training datasets, which were collected from stages with sliding blocks rated at consistent preloads. The average percentage prediction error in the verification dataset was approximately 8.54–11.23%. This is probably because the stage with an unevenly distributed preload in the sliding blocks induces vibration with more fluctuation, which eventually affects the prediction accuracy. The results verify the feasibility of online preload identification for the condition monitoring of the feeding system.
Optimized Fermentation and Freezing Conditions for Ready-to-Proof and Ready-to-Bake Frozen Dough of Sweet Bread
Authors: Zhao Yuxia , Kweon Meera
Published: August 2021

The processing conditions for ready-to-proof (RTP) and ready-to-bake (RTB) frozen sweet bread doughs were optimized using response surface methodology. A central composite design determined four factors and the tested range for each factor: a first fermentation time of 15~45 min, a second fermentation time of 30~90 min, a freezing temperature of −45~−25 °C, and a freezing time of 30~90 min. Sweet bread produced with these doughs was evaluated by bread weight, moisture content, crust color, height, volume, and firmness. Both the RTP and RTB doughs resulted in equal bread volume and height to the fresh dough, indicating excellent frozen stability. The first and second fermentation times were the significant processing factors for the RTP and RTB doughs influencing representative bread quality attributes based on quadratic models and ANOVA. Fermentation steps appeared to more significantly contribute to the quality of sweet bread made of frozen dough than freezing steps. The optimized RTP and RTB sweet bread dough processing conditions were the long first and second fermentation times for the dough based on a multiple response method and desirability. The optimum processing conditions for the RTP and RTB doughs were 44.7 min for the first fermentation time, 86.3 min for the second fermentation time, a −32.8 °C freezing temperature, and an 85.5 min freezing time.
Compositional Modeling of Impure CO2 Injection for Enhanced Oil Recovery and CO2 Storage
Authors: Lee Hye-Seung , Cho Jinhyung , Lee Young-Woo , Lee Kun-Sang
Published: August 2021

Injecting CO2, a greenhouse gas, into the reservoir could be beneficial economically, by extracting remaining oil, and environmentally, by storing CO2 in the reservoir. CO2 captured from various sources always contains various impurities that affect the gas–oil system in the reservoir, changing oil productivity and CO2 geological storage performance. Therefore, it is necessary to examine the effect of impurities on both enhanced oil recovery (EOR) and carbon capture and storage (CCS) performance. For Canada Weyburn W3 fluid, a 2D compositional simulation of water-alternating-gas (WAG) injection was conducted to analyze the effect of impure CO2 on EOR and CCS performance. Most components in the CO2 stream such as CH4, H2, N2, O2, and Ar can unfavorably increase the MMP between the oil and gas mixture, while H2S decreased the MMP. MMP changed according to the type and concentration of impurity in the CO2 stream. Impurities in the CO2 stream also decreased both sweep efficiency and displacement efficiency, increased the IFT between gas and reservoir fluid, and hindered oil density reduction. The viscous gravity number increased by 59.6%, resulting in a decrease in vertical sweep efficiency. In the case of carbon storage, impurities decreased the performance of residual trapping by 4.1% and solubility trapping by 5.6% compared with pure CO2 WAG. As a result, impurities in CO2 reduced oil recovery by 9.2% and total CCS performance by 4.3%.
Optimal Design Analysis with Simulation and Experimental Performance Investigation of High-Power Density Telecom PFC Converters
Authors: Okilly Ahmed H. , Baek Jeihoon
Published: August 2021

The spread of the 5G technology in the telecom power applications increased the need to supply high power density with higher efficiency and higher power factor. Thus, in this paper, the performance of the different power factor correction ( PFC ) topologies implemented to work with high power density telecom power applications are investigated. Two topologies, namely the conventional and the bridge interleaved continues-current-conduction mode (CCM) PFC boost converters are designed. Selection methodology of the switching elements, the manufacturing of the boost inductors, and the optimal design for the voltage and current control circuits based on the proposed small signal stability modeling are presented. The printed circuit board (PCB) for the two different PFC topologies with a power rating of 2 kW were designed. PSIM simulation and the experiments are used to show the supply current total harmonic distortions (THD), voltage ripples, power efficiency, and the power factor for the different topologies with different loading conditions.
Rotation Accuracy Analysis of Aerostatic Spindle Considering Shaft’s Roundness and Cylindricity
Authors: Zhang Guoqing , Zheng Jianming , Yu Hechun , Zhao Renfeng , Shi Weichao , Wang Jin
Published: August 2021

The rotation accuracy of the aerostatic spindle can easily be affected by shaft shape errors due to the small gas film clearance. Thus, the main shaft shape errors with the largest scale—that is, the roundness and cylindricity errors—are studied in this paper, and a dynamic mathematical model is established with the consideration of the roundness, cylindricity errors, and spindle speed. In order to construct the shaft model, the discrete coefficient index of the shaft radius based on roundness measurement data are proposed. Then, the simulation calculations are conducted based on the measured cylindricity data and the constructed shaft model. The calculation results are compared with the spindle rotation accuracy measured using the spindle error analyzer. The results show that the shaft with a low discrete coefficient is subjected to less unbalanced force and smaller rotation errors, as obtained by the experiment.
Radiation-Assisted Synthesis of Polymer-Based Nanomaterials
Authors: Güven Olgun
Published: August 2021

Radiation technology has long been proven as a simple, rapid, green and sustainable technology with macroscale applications in healthcare, industry and environment. Its merits, however, have not been fully utilized in today’s ever growing nanotechnology. Ionizing radiation has beneficial effects for the synthesis and modification of structure and properties of nanomaterials. This paper intends to update the application of ionizing radiation in the development of various nanomaterials under the categories: (i) carbon-based nanomaterials, (ii) metal-based nanomaterials, (iii) polymer-based nanomaterials, (iv) polymer nanocomposites and (v) nano-scale grafting for advanced membrane applications.
Investigations of Muon Flux Variations Detected Using Veto Detectors of the Digital Gamma-rays Spectrometer
Authors: Gorzkiewicz Krzysztof , Mietelski Jerzy W. , Ustrnul Zbigniew , Homola Piotr , Kierepko Renata , Nalichowska Ewa , Brudecki Kamil
Published: August 2021

This paper presents the results of cosmic ray muons flux monitoring registered by a digital gamma-ray spectrometer’s active shield made of five large plastic scintillators. In traditional, i.e., analogue active shields working in anticoincidence mode with germanium detectors, the generated data are used only as a gating signal and are not stored. However, thanks to digital acquisition applied in designed novel gamma-ray spectrometers enabling offline studies, it has not only become possible to use generated data to reduce the germanium detector background (cosmic rays veto system) but also to initialize long-term monitoring of the muon flux intensity. Furthermore, various analyses methods prove the relevance of the acquired data. Fourier analyses revealed the presence of daily (24 h), near-monthly (27 days) and over bi-monthly (68 days) cycles.
Antibacterial Efficiencies of CVD-PECVD Graphene Nanostructures Synthesized onto Glass and Nickel Substrates against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus Bacteria
Authors: Orhan Elif , Aydın Betül , Açık Leyla , Oz Fatih , Varzakas Theodoros
Published: August 2021

The antibacterial activity of graphene nanostructures (GrNs) on glass (G) and nickel (Ni) substrates against Escherichia coli ATCC 35218 (Gram-negative) and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 (Gram-positive) has been researched in this study. GrNs have been synthesized via two different methods, namely, chemical vapor deposition (CVD) and plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD). While the antibacterial effect of CVD-grown graphene nanosheets has been examined according to the number of layers (monolayer/1–2 layers/2–3 layers), the effect of PECVD grown Gr nanowalls on G substrates has been also analyzed at 100, 150, and 200 W radio frequency (RF) powers. For CVD-grown graphene nanosheets, as the number of layers of graphene nanosheets decreased, the cell viability (%) of E. coli decreased from 100% to 51.4%. It has been shown that PECVD graphene nanowalls synthesized onto G substrates, especially at 200 W, exhibited stronger antibacterial activity against E. coli and S. aureus, and the cell viabilities of E. coli and S. aureus decreased from 100% to 25.19% and 100% to 9.02%, respectively. It is concluded that that both the nanowall (3D structure) morphology, which changes significantly with the presence of RF power, and the defects created on the graphene surface using the PECVD method are more effective against E. coli and S. aureus than CVD-grown graphene-based samples (2D-structure).
Preliminary Valorization of Climatic Conditions Effects on Curing of Air Lime-Based Mortars for Restorative Applications in the Pasargadae and Persepolis World Heritage Sites
Authors: Pahlavan Parsa , Manzi Stefania , Shariatmadar Hashem , Bignozzi Maria Chiara
Published: August 2021

Air lime mortars with addition of two types of sesame cooking oil were synthesized and cured in two different conditions: laboratory and natural climatic conditions of the Pasargadae and Persepolis World Heritage Sites. For the mortars cured in the laboratory, addition of oils in the mortar induced hydrophobic effects, but it adversely affected on permeability values and carbonation rates. However, the air lime mortars cured in the site conditions demonstrated increment in their hydrophobicity and superficial durability without retarding their setting time and adverse effects on their calcium carbonate formation values, due to various climatic parameters existing in natural outdoor conditions.
Dosimetric Evaluation in Micro-CT Studies Used in Preclinical Molecular Imaging
Authors: Rueda Alexis N. , Ruiz-Trejo César , López-Pineda Eduardo , Romero-Piña Mario E. , Medina Luis A.
Published: August 2021

In microCT imaging, there is a close relationship between the dose of radiation absorbed by animals and the image quality, or spatial resolution. Although the radiation levels used in these systems are generally non-lethal, they can induce cellular or molecular alterations that affect the experimental results. Here, we describe a dosimetric characterization of the different image acquisition modalities used by the microCT unit of the Albira microPET/SPECT/CT scanner, which is a widely used multimodal imaging system in preclinical research. The imparted dose at the animal surface (IDS) was estimated based on Boone’s polynomial interpolation method and experimental measurements using an ionization chamber and thermoluminescent dosimeters. The results indicated that the imparted dose at surface level delivered to the mice was in the 30 to 300 mGy range. For any combination of current (0.2 or 0.4 mA) and voltage (35 or 45 kV), in the Standard, Good, and Best image acquisition modalities, the dose imparted at surface level in rodents was below its threshold of deterministic effects (250 mGy); however, the High Res modality was above that threshold.
The Soliton Solutions for Some Nonlinear Fractional Differential Equations with Beta-Derivative
Authors: Özkan Erdoğan Mehmet , Özkan Ayten
Published: August 2021

Nonlinear fractional differential equations have gained a significant place in mathematical physics. Finding the solutions to these equations has emerged as a field of study that has attracted a lot of attention lately. In this work, He’s semi-inverse variation method and the ansatz method have been applied to find the soliton solutions for fractional Korteweg–de Vries equation, fractional equal width equation, and fractional modified equal width equation defined by Atangana’s conformable derivative (beta-derivative). These two methods are effective methods employed to get the soliton solutions of these nonlinear equations. All of the calculations in this work have been obtained using the Maple program and the solutions have been replaced in the equations and their accuracy has been confirmed. In addition, graphics of some of the solutions are also included. The found solutions in this study have the potential to be useful in mathematical physics and engineering.
Analysis of Phytosterols Content in Italian-Standard Espresso Coffee
Authors: Nzekoue Franks Kamgang , Alessandroni Laura , Caprioli Giovanni , Khamitova Gulzhan , Navarini Luciano , Ricciutelli Massimo , Sagratini Gianni , Sempere Alba Nácher , Vittori Sauro
Published: August 2021

This study aims to assess for the first time the content of phytosterols (PS) in espresso coffee (EC) to deepen the knowledge about the phytochemicals and health potentials of coffee brews. PS were extracted by hot saponification from 14 EC samples produced with coffee originating from 13 coffee-producing countries. PS were identified and quantified by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) after derivatization. Among the detected PS, β-sitosterol (4.1–18.2 mg/L) was the most abundant followed by stigmasterol (1.1–4.9 mg/L), campesterol (0.9–4.7 mg/L), and cycloartenol (0.3–2.0 mg/L). Total PS fraction ranged from 6.5 mg/L to 30.0 mg/L with an average level of 15.7 ± 5.8 mg/L. Therefore, a standard cup of EC (25 mL) could provide 0.4 ± 0.1 mg of PS.