bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ZnO Films Incorporation Study on Macroporous Silicon Structure
Authors: Martínez Lizeth , García-Salgado Godofredo , Morales-Morales Francisco , Campillo Bernardo , Hernández Angélica G. , Karthik Tangirala V. K. , Jiménez-Vivanco María R. , Campos-Álvarez José
Published: July 2021

In the present work, we developed hybrid nanostructures based on ZnO films deposited on macroporous silicon substrates using the sol–gel spin coating and ultrasonic spray pyrolysis (USP) techniques. The changes in the growth of ZnO films on macroporous silicon were studied using a UV-visible spectrometer, an X-ray diffractometer (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). XRD analysis revealed the beneficial influence of macroporous silicon on the structural properties of ZnO films. SEM micrographs showed the growth and coverage of ZnO granular and flake-like crystals inside the pores of the substrate. The root mean square roughness (RMS) measured by AFM in the ZnO grown on the macroporous silicon substrate was up to one order of magnitude higher than reference samples. These results prove that the methods used in this work are effective to cover porous and obtain nano-morphologies of ZnO. These morphologies could be useful for making highly sensitive gas sensors.
Deterministic Local Interpretable Model-Agnostic Explanations for Stable Explainability
Authors: Zafar Muhammad Rehman , Khan Naimul
Published: July 2021

Local Interpretable Model-Agnostic Explanations (LIME) is a popular technique used to increase the interpretability and explainability of black box Machine Learning (ML) algorithms. LIME typically creates an explanation for a single prediction by any ML model by learning a simpler interpretable model (e.g., linear classifier) around the prediction through generating simulated data around the instance by random perturbation, and obtaining feature importance through applying some form of feature selection. While LIME and similar local algorithms have gained popularity due to their simplicity, the random perturbation methods result in shifts in data and instability in the generated explanations, where for the same prediction, different explanations can be generated. These are critical issues that can prevent deployment of LIME in sensitive domains. We propose a deterministic version of LIME. Instead of random perturbation, we utilize Agglomerative Hierarchical Clustering (AHC) to group the training data together and K-Nearest Neighbour (KNN) to select the relevant cluster of the new instance that is being explained. After finding the relevant cluster, a simple model (i.e., linear model or decision tree) is trained over the selected cluster to generate the explanations. Experimental results on six public (three binary and three multi-class) and six synthetic datasets show the superiority for Deterministic Local Interpretable Model-Agnostic Explanations (DLIME), where we quantitatively determine the stability and faithfulness of DLIME compared to LIME.
Trust-Region Based Penalty Barrier Algorithm for Constrained Nonlinear Programming Problems: An Application of Design of Minimum Cost Canal Sections
Authors: El-Sobky Bothina , Abo-Elnaga Yousria , Mousa Abd Allah A. , El-Shorbagy Mohamed A.
Published: July 2021

In this paper, a penalty method is used together with a barrier method to transform a constrained nonlinear programming problem into an unconstrained nonlinear programming problem. In the proposed approach, Newton’s method is applied to the barrier Karush–Kuhn–Tucker conditions. To ensure global convergence from any starting point, a trust-region globalization strategy is used. A global convergence theory of the penalty–barrier trust-region (PBTR) algorithm is studied under four standard assumptions. The PBTR has new features; it is simpler, has rapid convergerce, and is easy to implement. Numerical simulation was performed on some benchmark problems. The proposed algorithm was implemented to find the optimal design of a canal section for minimum water loss for a triangle cross-section application. The results are promising when compared with well-known algorithms.
A New Grey Approach for Using SWARA and PIPRECIA Methods in a Group Decision-Making Environment
Authors: Stanujkić Dragiša , Karabašević Darjan , Popović Gabrijela , Stanimirović Predrag S. , Saračević Muzafer , Smarandache Florentin , Katsikis Vasilios N. , Ulutaş Alptekin
Published: July 2021

The environment in which the decision-making process takes place is often characterized by uncertainty and vagueness and, because of that, sometimes it is very hard to express the criteria weights with crisp numbers. Therefore, the application of the Grey System Theory, i.e., grey numbers, in this case, is very convenient when it comes to determination of the criteria weights with partially known information. Besides, the criteria weights have a significant role in the multiple criteria decision-making process. Many ordinary multiple criteria decision-making methods are adapted for using grey numbers, and this is the case in this article as well. A new grey extension of the certain multiple criteria decision-making methods for the determination of the criteria weights is proposed. Therefore, the article aims to propose a new extension of the Step-wise Weight Assessment Ratio Analysis (SWARA) and PIvot Pairwise Relative Criteria Importance Assessment (PIPRECIA) methods adapted for group decision-making. In the proposed approach, attitudes of decision-makers are transformed into grey group attitudes, which allows taking advantage of the benefit that grey numbers provide over crisp numbers. The main advantage of the proposed approach in relation to the use of crisp numbers is the ability to conduct different analyses, i.e., considering different scenarios, such as pessimistic, optimistic, and so on. By varying the value of the whitening coefficient, different weights of the criteria can be obtained, and it should be emphasized that this approach gives the same weights as in the case of crisp numbers when the whitening coefficient has a value of 0.5. In addition, in this approach, the grey number was formed based on the median value of collected responses because it better maintains the deviation from the normal distribution of the collected responses. The application of the proposed approach was considered through two numerical illustrations, based on which appropriate conclusions were drawn.
Apneic Tracheostomy in COVID-19 Patients on Veno-Venous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation
Authors: Rossetti Matteo , Vitiello Chiara , Campitelli Valeria , Cuffaro Raffaele , Bianco Claudia , Martucci Gennaro , Panarello Giovanna , Pappalardo Federico , Arcadipane Antonio
Published: July 2021

COVID-19 creates an impressive burden for intensive care units in terms of need for advanced respiratory care, with a huge number of acute respiratory distress syndromes (ARDS) requiring prolonged mechanical ventilation. In some cases, this proves to be insufficient, with a refractory respiratory failure calling for an extracorporeal approach (veno-venous ECMO). In this scenario, most of these patients need an early tracheostomy procedure to be carried out, which creates the risk of distribution of aerosol particles, possibly leading to personnel infection. The use of apneic tracheostomy has been proposed for COVID-19 patients, but in case of ECMO it may produce lung derecruitment, severe hypoxemia, and sudden worsening of respiratory mechanics. We developed an apneic tracheostomy technique and applied it in over 32 patients supported by veno-venous ECMO. We present data showing the safety and feasibility of this technique in terms of patient care and personnel protection. Gas exchange and pH did not show statistically significant changes after the tracheostomy, nor did respiratory mechanics data or the need for inspiratory pressure and FiO2. The use of apneic tracheostomy was a safe option for patient care during ECMO and reduced the possibility of virus spreading.
COMTOP: Protein Residue–Residue Contact Prediction through Mixed Integer Linear Optimization
Authors: Reza Md. , Zhang Huiling , Hossain Md. , Jin Langxi , Feng Shengzhong , Wei Yanjie
Published: July 2021

Protein contact prediction helps reconstruct the tertiary structure that greatly determines a protein’s function; therefore, contact prediction from the sequence is an important problem. Recently there has been exciting progress on this problem, but many of the existing methods are still low quality of prediction accuracy. In this paper, we present a new mixed integer linear programming (MILP)-based consensus method: a Consensus scheme based On a Mixed integer linear opTimization method for prOtein contact Prediction (COMTOP). The MILP-based consensus method combines the strengths of seven selected protein contact prediction methods, including CCMpred, EVfold, DeepCov, NNcon, PconsC4, plmDCA, and PSICOV, by optimizing the number of correctly predicted contacts and achieving a better prediction accuracy. The proposed hybrid protein residue–residue contact prediction scheme was tested in four independent test sets. For 239 highly non-redundant proteins, the method showed a prediction accuracy of 59.68%, 70.79%, 78.86%, 89.04%, 94.51%, and 97.35% for top-5L, top-3L, top-2L, top-L, top-L/2, and top-L/5 contacts, respectively. When tested on the CASP13 and CASP14 test sets, the proposed method obtained accuracies of 75.91% and 77.49% for top-L/5 predictions, respectively. COMTOP was further tested on 57 non-redundant α-helical transmembrane proteins and achieved prediction accuracies of 64.34% and 73.91% for top-L/2 and top-L/5 predictions, respectively. For all test datasets, the improvement of COMTOP in accuracy over the seven individual methods increased with the increasing number of predicted contacts. For example, COMTOP performed much better for large number of contact predictions (such as top-5L and top-3L) than for small number of contact predictions such as top-L/2 and top-L/5. The results and analysis demonstrate that COMTOP can significantly improve the performance of the individual methods; therefore, COMTOP is more robust against different types of test sets. COMTOP also showed better/comparable predictions when compared with the state-of-the-art predictors.
The Induction of the Isoflavone Biosynthesis Pathway Is Associated with Resistance to Common Bacterial Blight in Phaseolus vulgaris L.
Authors: Cox Laura D. , Munholland Seth , Mats Lili , Zhu Honghui , Crosby William L. , Lukens Lewis , Pauls Karl Peter , Bozzo Gale G.
Published: July 2021

Xanthomonas axonopodis infects common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) causing the disease common bacterial blight (CBB). The aim of this study was to investigate the molecular and metabolic mechanisms underlying CBB resistance in P. vulgaris. Trifoliate leaves of plants of a CBB-resistant P. vulgaris recombinant inbred line (RIL) and a CBB-susceptible RIL were inoculated with X. axonopodis or water (mock treatment). Leaves sampled at defined intervals over a 48-h post-inoculation (PI) period were monitored for alterations in global transcript profiles. A total of 800 genes were differentially expressed between pathogen and mock treatments across both RILs; approximately half were differentially expressed in the CBB-resistant RIL at 48 h PI. Notably, there was a 4- to 32-fold increased transcript abundance for isoflavone biosynthesis genes, including several isoflavone synthases, isoflavone 2′-hydroxylases and isoflavone reductases. Ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry assessed leaf metabolite levels as a function of the PI period. The concentrations of the isoflavones daidzein and genistein and related metabolites coumestrol and phaseollinisoflavan were increased in CBB-resistant RIL plant leaves after exposure to the pathogen. Isoflavone pathway transcripts and metabolite profiles were unaffected in the CBB-susceptible RIL. Thus, induction of the isoflavone pathway is associated with CBB-resistance in P. vulgaris.
Machine Assisted Experimentation of Extrusion-Based Bioprinting Systems
Authors: Tian Shuyu , Stevens Rory , McInnes Bridget , Lewinski Nastassja
Published: July 2021

Optimization of extrusion-based bioprinting (EBB) parameters have been systematically conducted through experimentation. However, the process is time- and resource-intensive and not easily translatable to other laboratories. This study approaches EBB parameter optimization through machine learning (ML) models trained using data collected from the published literature. We investigated regression-based and classification-based ML models and their abilities to predict printing outcomes of cell viability and filament diameter for cell-containing alginate and gelatin composite bioinks. In addition, we interrogated if regression-based models can predict suitable extrusion pressure given the desired cell viability when keeping other experimental parameters constant. We also compared models trained across data from general literature to models trained across data from one literature source that utilized alginate and gelatin bioinks. The results indicate that models trained on large amounts of data can impart physical trends on cell viability, filament diameter, and extrusion pressure seen in past literature. Regression models trained on the larger dataset also predict cell viability closer to experimental values for material concentration combinations not seen in training data of the single-paper-based regression models. While the best performing classification models for cell viability can achieve an average prediction accuracy of 70%, the cell viability predictions remained constant despite altering input parameter combinations. Our trained models on bioprinting literature data show the potential usage of applying ML models to bioprinting experimental design.
Current Stimulation of the Midbrain Nucleus in Pigeons for Avian Flight Control
Authors: Jang Jungwoo , Baek Changhoon , Kim Sunhyo , Lee Tae-Kyeong , Choi Gwang-Jin , Shim Shinyong , Yun Seunghyeon , Jung Younginha , Lee Chae-Eun , Ko Seunghyung , Seo Kangmoon , Seo Jong-Mo , Won Moo-Ho , Kim Sung J. , Song Yoon-Kyu
Published: July 2021

A number of research attempts to understand and modulate sensory and motor skills that are beyond the capability of humans have been underway. They have mainly been expounded in rodent models, where numerous reports of controlling movement to reach target locations by brain stimulation have been achieved. However, in the case of birds, although basic research on movement control has been conducted, the brain nuclei that are triggering these movements have yet to be established. In order to fully control flight navigation in birds, the basic central nervous system involved in flight behavior should be understood comprehensively, and functional maps of the birds’ brains to study the possibility of flight control need to be clarified. Here, we established a stable stereotactic surgery to implant multi-wire electrode arrays and electrically stimulated several nuclei of the pigeon’s brain. A multi-channel electrode array and a wireless stimulation system were implanted in thirteen pigeons. The pigeons’ flight trajectories on electrical stimulation of the cerebral nuclei were monitored and analyzed by a 3D motion tracking program to evaluate the behavioral change, and the exact stimulation site in the brain was confirmed by the postmortem histological examination. Among them, five pigeons were able to induce right and left body turns by stimulating the nuclei of the tractus occipito-mesencephalicus (OM), nucleus taeniae (TN), or nucleus rotundus (RT); the nuclei of tractus septo-mesencephalicus (TSM) or archistriatum ventrale (AV) were stimulated to induce flight aviation for flapping and take-off with five pigeons.
Performance Research and Structure Optimization of Labyrinth Screw Pump
Authors: Rong Xin , Zhu Hongwu , Hu Biao
Published: July 2021

The labyrinth screw pump is a new type of low-flow rotor pump with a simple structure and good sealing performance. It is suitable for the transport of high-viscosity, high-gas-content, and particle-containing media. In this study, a rectangular labyrinth screw pump was used as the research object. The effect of the medium viscosity on the performance of the labyrinth pump was studied through numerical simulations, and the correctness of the simulation method was verified using existing test data. The efficiency and head of the labyrinth screw pump were selected as the optimization objectives, and the pump structural parameters were selected as the optimization parameters. A structural optimization model of the labyrinth screw pump based on response surface theory was established. The structural parameters of the labyrinth pump were reasonably simplified through size correlations, and then parameter sensitivity analysis was performed to determine the important structural parameters that needed to be optimized. The OSFD (optimized space-filling design) was used to combine the optimized parameters and generate the sample space. The response surface theory was combined with a neural network prediction model and a multi-objective genetic algorithm to perform optimization calculations. The results showed that there was an interactive influence between the structural parameters of the stator and rotor of the labyrinth screw pump. Compared with the original model, the optimized model pump had an efficiency increase of 13.55% and a lift increase of 19.53% when conveying a medium with a viscosity of 133 cp.
Tick-Borne Encephalitis in an 8.5-Month-Old Boy Suspected of Febrile Seizures
Authors: Krbková Lenka , Čapovová Iva , Homola Lukáš , Lindušková Jana , Salát Jiří , Růžek Daniel
Published: July 2021

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a serious viral neuroinfection affecting humans in large areas of Europe and Asia. TBE can occur at any age, but only a few reports of TBE in infants younger than 1 year have been published. Here, we report a case of severe TBE in an 8.5-month-old boy presenting with seizures at the beginning of the neurological phase.
Genomic Diversity of CRESS DNA Viruses in the Eukaryotic Virome of Swine Feces
Authors: Fehér Enikő , Mihalov-Kovács Eszter , Kaszab Eszter , Malik Yashpal S. , Marton Szilvia , Bányai Krisztián
Published: July 2021

Replication-associated protein (Rep)-encoding single-stranded DNA (CRESS DNA) viruses are a diverse group of viruses, and their persistence in the environment has been studied for over a decade. However, the persistence of CRESS DNA viruses in herds of domestic animals has, in some cases, serious economic consequence. In this study, we describe the diversity of CRESS DNA viruses identified during the metagenomics analysis of fecal samples collected from a single swine herd with apparently healthy animals. A total of nine genome sequences were assembled and classified into two different groups (CRESSV1 and CRESSV2) of the Cirlivirales order (Cressdnaviricota phylum). The novel CRESS DNA viral sequences shared 85.8–96.8% and 38.1–94.3% amino acid sequence identities for the Rep and putative capsid protein sequences compared to their respective counterparts with extant GenBank record. Data presented here show evidence for simultaneous infection of swine herds with multiple novel CRESS DNA viruses, including po-circo-like viruses and fur seal feces-associated circular DNA viruses. Given that viral genomes with similar sequence and structure have been detected in swine fecal viromes from independent studies, investigation of the association between presence of CRESS DNA viruses and swine health conditions seems to be justified.
Concentrations of Major and Trace Elements within the Snowpack of Tyumen, Russia
Authors: Moskovchenko Dmitriy , Pozhitkov Roman , Zakharchenko Aleksandr , Tigeev Aleksandr
Published: July 2021

A study on the composition of snow allowed for a quantitative determination of pollutants deposited from the atmosphere. Concentrations of dissolved (<0.45 μm) and particulate fractions of 62 chemical elements were determined by ICP–MS and ICP–AES in 41 samples of snow from Tyumen (Russia). The background sites were characterized by a predominance of the dissolved phase of elements, except for Al, Sn, Cr, Co and Zr. The increased concentrations of dissolved Cd, Cu, Zn, Pb, Ni, As and Mo can be explained by a long-range atmospheric transport from the sources located in the Urals. The urban sites showed multiple increases in particulate depositions and a predominance of the particulate phase, with a high degree of enrichment in many heavy metals. Sources of trace elements were determined according to the enrichment factor (EF). Highly enriched elements (Pb, Sb, Cd, Ag, Mo, As, Zn and Cu) with an EF > 100 were emitted from anthropogenic sources. According to the potential ecological risk index (RI), the worst ecological conditions were identified in Tyumen’s historical center, industrial zone and along roads with the heaviest traffic. The data obtained in the present study allowed us to identify the most polluted parts of the city, which are located in the center and along the roads with the most intensive traffic. This research could offer a reference for the atmospheric pollution prevention and control in Tyumen.
Hydrometallurgical Production of Electrolytic Manganese Dioxide (EMD) from Furnace Fines
Authors: Önal Mehmet Ali Recai , Panda Lopamudra , Kopparthi Prasad , Singh Veerendra , Venkatesan Prakash , Borra Chenna Rao
Published: July 2021

The ferromanganese (FeMn) alloy is produced through the smelting-reduction of manganese ores in submerged arc furnaces. This process generates large amounts of furnace dust that is environmentally problematic for storage. Due to its fineness and high volatile content, this furnace dust cannot be recirculated through the process, either. Conventional MnO2 production requires the pre-reduction of low-grade ores at around 900 °C to convert the manganese oxides present in the ore into their respective acid-soluble forms; however, the furnace dust is a partly reduced by-product. In this study, a hydrometallurgical route is proposed to valorize the waste dust for the production of battery-grade MnO2. By using dextrin, a cheap organic reductant, the direct and complete dissolution of the manganese in the furnace dust is possible without any need for high-temperature pre-reduction. The leachate is then purified through pH adjustment followed by direct electrowinning for electrolytic manganese dioxide (EMD) production. An overall manganese recovery rate of >90% is achieved.
Dietary Flavonoids: Cardioprotective Potential with Antioxidant Effects and Their Pharmacokinetic, Toxicological and Therapeutic Concerns
Authors: Khan Johra , Deb Prashanta Kumar , Priya Somi , Medina Karla Damián , Devi Rajlakshmi , Walode Sanjay G. , Rudrapal Mithun
Published: July 2021

Flavonoids comprise a large group of structurally diverse polyphenolic compounds of plant origin and are abundantly found in human diet such as fruits, vegetables, grains, tea, dairy products, red wine, etc. Major classes of flavonoids include flavonols, flavones, flavanones, flavanols, anthocyanidins, isoflavones, and chalcones. Owing to their potential health benefits and medicinal significance, flavonoids are now considered as an indispensable component in a variety of medicinal, pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and cosmetic preparations. Moreover, flavonoids play a significant role in preventing cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), which could be mainly due to their antioxidant, antiatherogenic, and antithrombotic effects. Epidemiological and in vitro/in vivo evidence of antioxidant effects supports the cardioprotective function of dietary flavonoids. Further, the inhibition of LDL oxidation and platelet aggregation following regular consumption of food containing flavonoids and moderate consumption of red wine might protect against atherosclerosis and thrombosis. One study suggests that daily intake of 100 mg of flavonoids through the diet may reduce the risk of developing morbidity and mortality due to coronary heart disease (CHD) by approximately 10%. This review summarizes dietary flavonoids with their sources and potential health implications in CVDs including various redox-active cardioprotective (molecular) mechanisms with antioxidant effects. Pharmacokinetic (oral bioavailability, drug metabolism), toxicological, and therapeutic aspects of dietary flavonoids are also addressed herein with future directions for the discovery and development of useful drug candidates/therapeutic molecules.
Ionic Liquids Based on the Concept of Melting Point Lowering Due to Ethoxylation
Authors: Rothe Manuel , Müller Eva , Denk Patrick , Kunz Werner
Published: July 2021

Most of the commonly used Ionic Liquids (ILs) contain bulky organic cations with suitable anions. With our COMPLET (Concept of Melting Point Lowering due to Ethoxylation), we follow a different approach. We use simple, low-toxic, cheap, and commercially available anions of the type Cx(EO)yCH2COO– to liquefy presumably any simple metal ion, independently of its charge. In the simplest case, the cation can be sodium or lithium, but synthesis of Ionic Liquids is also possible with cations of higher valences such as transition or rare earth metals. Anions with longer alkyl chains are surface active and form surface active ionic liquids (SAILs), which combine properties of ionic and nonionic surfactants at room temperature. They show significant structuring even in their pure state, i.e., in the absence of water or any other added solvent. This approach offers new application domains that go far beyond the common real or hypothetical use of classical Ionic Liquids. Possible applications include the separation of rare earth metals, the use as interesting media for metal catalysis, or the synthesis of completely new materials (for example, in analogy to metal organic frameworks).
Redox State and Lysosomal Activity in Women with Ovarian Cancer with Tumor Recurrence and Multiorgan Metastasis
Authors: Sutkowy Paweł , Czuczejko Jolanta , Małkowski Bogdan , Szewczyk-Golec Karolina , Łopatto Rita , Maruszak Marta , Woźniak Alina
Published: July 2021

The aim of the study is to evaluate oxidant–antioxidant balance as well as lysosomal and anti-protease activities in ovarian cancer since it has been emphasized that the crucial inducing factor of carcinogenesis may be reactive oxygen/nitrogen species or, more precisely, oxidative stress-induced inflammation. The study involved 15 women with ovarian cancer, aged 59.9 ± 7.8 years, and 9 healthy women aged 56.3 ± 4.3 years (controls). The study material was venous blood collected from fasting subjects. In erythrocytes, the activities of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase, as well as concentrations of conjugated dienes (CDs) and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), were investigated. CD, TBARS, and vitamins A and E plasma concentrations were also determined. Moreover, total antioxidant capacity and concentrations of 4-hydroxynonenal adducts and 8-iso-prostaglandin F2α, as well as activities of acid phosphatase, arylsulfatase, cathepsin D, and α1-antitrypsin, were studied in serum. The vitamin E and 8-iso-prostaglandin F2α concentrations as well as arylsulfatase activity were lower in the women with cancer compared to the controls (p = 0.006, p = 0.03, p = 0.001, respectively). In contrast, cathepsin D activity was lower in the controls (p = 0.04). In the peripheral blood of the women with cancer, oxidant–antioxidant and lysosomal disturbances were observed.
Optimization of an Extraction Process to Obtain a Food-Grade Sulforaphane-Rich Extract from Broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica)
Authors: González Francis , Quintero Julián , Del Río Rodrigo , Mahn Andrea
Published: July 2021

Sulforaphane (SFN) is a powerful health-promoting compound found in broccoli in the form of its inactive precursor, glucoraphanin (GFN). SFN formation occurs through the enzymatic hydrolysis of glucoraphanin by myrosinase under specific chemical conditions. Its incorporation in food formulations has been hindered by the thermal instability of SFN and low concentration in Brassicaceae. Then, extracting SFN from broccoli at a temperature below 40 °C appears as an option to recover and stabilize SFN, aiming at delivering it as a nutraceutical. We studied an eco-friendly extraction process to obtain an SFN-rich extract from broccoli. The effect of the broccoli mass/solvent ratio, ethanol concentration in the extractant solution, and extraction time on the recovery of SFN, GFN, phenolic compounds, and antioxidant activity were studied through a Box–Behnken design. The regression models explained more than 70% of the variability in the responses, adequately representing the system. The experimental factors differently affected the bioactive compound recovery and antioxidant activity of the extracts. The extraction conditions that allowed the highest recovery of bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity were identified and experimentally validated. The results may provide the basis for the design of a process to produce a sulforaphane-rich food supplement or nutraceutical by using a GRAS extractant.
1.8 V Aqueous Symmetric Carbon-Based Supercapacitors with Agarose-Bound Activated Carbons in an Acidic Electrolyte
Authors: Lai Chih-Chung , Hsu Feng-Hao , Hsu Su-Yang , Deng Ming-Jay , Lu Kueih-Tzu , Chen Jin-Ming
Published: July 2021

The specific energy of an aqueous carbon supercapacitor is generally small, resulting mainly from a narrow potential window of aqueous electrolytes. Here, we introduced agarose, an ecologically compatible polymer, as a novel binder to fabricate an activated carbon supercapacitor, enabling a wider potential window attributed to a high overpotential of the hydrogen-evolution reaction (HER) of agarose-bound activated carbons in sulfuric acid. Assembled symmetric aqueous cells can be galvanostatically cycled up to 1.8 V, attaining an enhanced energy density of 13.5 W h/kg (9.5 µW h/cm2) at 450 W/kg (315 µW/cm2). Furthermore, a great cycling behavior was obtained, with a 94.2% retention of capacitance after 10,000 cycles at 2 A/g. This work might guide the design of an alternative material for high-energy aqueous supercapacitors.
Finite Element Study of Bio-Convective Stefan Blowing Ag-MgO/Water Hybrid Nanofluid Induced by Stretching Cylinder Utilizing Non-Fourier and Non-Fick’s Laws
Authors: Rana Puneet , Makkar Vinita , Gupta Gaurav
Published: July 2021

In the present framework, an analysis on nanofluid magneto-transport phenomena over an extending cylinder influenced by gyrotactic behavior of algal suspension, is made using the Cattaneo–Christov heat flux (non-Fourier) and mass flux (non-Fick’s) concept in modified Buongiorno’s model. Two dimensional incompressible MHD hybrid nanofluid which comprises chemically reactive hybrid nanomaterials (Ag-MgO NPs) and Stefan blowing effect along with multiple slips is considered. The experimental correlations with their dependency on initial nanoparticle volume fraction are used for viscosity and thermal conductivity of nanofluids. Similarity transformation is used to convert the governing PDE’s into non-linear ODE’s along with boundary conditions, which are solved using the Galerkin Finite Element Method (GFEM). The mesh independent test with different boundary layer thickness (ξ∞) has been conducted by taking both linear and quadratic shape functions to achieve a optimal desired value. The results are calculated for a realistic range of physical parameters. The validation of FEM results shows an excellent correlation with MATLAB bvp5c subroutine. The warmth exhibitions are assessed through modified version of Buongiorno’s model which effectively reflects the significant highlights of Stefan blowing, slip, curvature, free stream, thermophoresis, Brownian motion and bio-convection parameters. The present study in cylindrical domain is relevant to novel microbial fuel cell technologies utilizing hybrid nanoparticles and concept of Stefan blowing with bioconvection phenomena.
Elucidation of the Crystal Growth Characteristics of SnO2 Nanoaggregates Formed by Sequential Low-Temperature Sol-Gel Reaction and Freeze Drying
Authors: Vafaei Saeid , Wolosz Alexander , Ethridge Catlin , Schnupf Udo , Hattori Nagisa , Sugiura Takashi , Manseki Kazuhiro
Published: July 2021

SnO2 nanoparticles are regarded as attractive, functional materials because of their versatile applications. SnO2 nanoaggregates with single-nanometer-scale lumpy surfaces provide opportunities to enhance hetero-material interfacial areas, leading to the performance improvement of materials and devices. For the first time, we demonstrate that SnO2 nanoaggregates with oxygen vacancies can be produced by a simple, low-temperature sol-gel approach combined with freeze-drying. We characterize the initiation of the low-temperature crystal growth of the obtained SnO2 nanoaggregates using high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). The results indicate that Sn (II) hydroxide precursors are converted into submicrometer-scale nanoaggregates consisting of uniform SnO2 spherical nanocrystals (2~5 nm in size). As the sol-gel reaction time increases, further crystallization is observed through the neighboring particles in a confined part of the aggregates, while the specific surface areas of the SnO2 samples increase concomitantly. In addition, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) measurements suggest that Sn (II) ions exist in the SnO2 samples when the reactions are stopped after a short time or when a relatively high concentration of Sn (II) is involved in the corresponding sol-gel reactions. Understanding this low-temperature growth of 3D SnO2 will provide new avenues for developing and producing high-performance, photofunctional nanomaterials via a cost-effective and scalable method.
Pancreatic β Cells Inhibit Glucagon Secretion from α Cells: An In Vitro Demonstration of α–β Cell Interaction
Authors: Gu Wenqian , Anker Camilla Christine Bundgaard , Christiansen Christine Bodelund , Moede Tilo , Berggren Per-Olof , Hermansen Kjeld , Gregersen Søren , Jeppesen Per Bendix
Published: July 2021

Interactions between endocrine α and β cells are critical to their secretory function in vivo. The interactions are highly regulated, although yet to be fully understood. In this study, we aim to assess the impact of α and β cell co-culture on hormone secretion. Mouse clonal cell lines α-TC6-1 (α cell line) and MIN-6 (β cell line) were cultured independently or in combination in a medium containing 5.5, 11.1, or 25 mM glucose, respectively. After 72 h, hormone release was measured using insulin and glucagon secretion assays, the cell distribution was visualized by inverted microscopy and an immunocytochemistry assay, and changes in gene expressions were assessed using the RT-PCR technique. The co-culture of the two cell lines caused a decrease in glucagon secretion from α-TC1-6 cells, while no effect on insulin secretion from MIN-6 cells was revealed. Both types of cells were randomly scattered throughout the culture flask, unlike in mice islets in vivo where β cells cluster in the core and α cells are localized at the periphery. During the α–β cell co-culture, the gene expression of glucagon (Gcg) decreased significantly. We conclude that islet β cells suppress glucagon secretion from α cells, apparently via direct cell-to-cell contact, of which the molecular mechanism needs further verification.
Biological Effects of XyloCore, a Glucose Sparing PD Solution, on Mesothelial Cells: Focus on Mesothelial-Mesenchymal Transition, Inflammation and Angiogenesis
Authors: Masola Valentina , Bonomini Mario , Onisto Maurizio , Ferraro Pietro Manuel , Arduini Arduino , Gambaro Giovanni
Published: July 2021

Glucose-based solutions remain the most used osmotic agents in peritoneal dialysis (PD), but unavoidably they contribute to the loss of peritoneal filtration capacity. Here, we evaluated at a molecular level the effects of XyloCore, a new PD solution with a low glucose content, in mesothelial and endothelial cells. Cell viability, integrity of mesothelial and endothelial cell membrane, activation of mesothelial and endothelial to mesenchymal transition programs, inflammation, and angiogenesis were evaluated by several techniques. Results showed that XyloCore preserves mesothelial and endothelial cell viability and membrane integrity. Moreover XyloCore, unlike glucose-based solutions, does not exert pro-fibrotic, -inflammatory, and -angiogenic effects. Overall, the in vitro evidence suggests that XyloCore could represent a potential biocompatible solution promising better outcomes in clinical practice.
The Effect of Dietary Supplements on Oxidative Stress in Pregnant Women with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Network Meta-Analysis
Authors: Chatzakis Christos , Sotiriadis Alexandros , Tsakmaki Evangelia , Papagianni Maria , Paltoglou George , Dinas Konstantinos , Mastorakos George
Published: July 2021

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) exacerbates the oxidative stress status of the pregnant women. Τo improve the oxidative stress status, several therapeutic interventions have been suggested. The aim of this network meta-analysis is to assess the effect of different dietary supplements on the oxidative stress status in pregnant women with GDM. Methods: A network meta-analysis of randomized control trials was performed comparing the changes delta (Δ) in total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and concentration of malondialdehyde (MDA) as primary outcomes, following different therapeutic interventions with dietary supplements in pregnant women with GDM. Four electronic databases and grey literature sources were searched. The secondary outcomes were other markers of oxidative stress. Results: The meta-analysis included 16 studies of 1173 women with GDM. Regarding ΔTAC: probiotics and omega-3 with vitamin E were superior to placebo/no intervention. Regarding ΔMDA: vitamin D with calcium, omega-3, vitamin D, omega-3 with vitamin E, magnesium with zinc and calcium, and probiotics were superior to placebo/no intervention. Conclusions: Administration of dietary supplements in women with GDM can be helpful in limiting the oxidative stress which develop in these pregnancies.
A Compact Muon Tracker for Dynamic Tomography of Density Based on a Thin Time Projection Chamber with Micromegas Readout
Authors: Lázaro Roche Ignacio
Published: July 2021

Tomography based on cosmic muon absorption is a rising technique because of its versatility and its consolidation as a geophysics tool over the past decade. It allows us to address major societal issues such as long-term stability of natural and man-made large infrastructures or sustainable underwater management. Traditionally, muon trackers consist of hodoscopes or multilayer detectors. For applications with challenging available volumes or the wide field of view required, a thin time projection chamber (TPC) associated with a Micromegas readout plane can provide a good tradeoff between compactness and performance. This paper details the design of such a TPC aiming at maximizing primary signal and minimizing track reconstruction artifacts. The results of the measurements performed during a case study addressing the aforementioned applications are discussed. The current works lines and perspectives of the project are also presented.
Predictive Value of Precision-Cut Lung Slices for the Susceptibility of Three Animal Species for SARS-CoV-2 and Validation in a Refined Hamster Model
Authors: Gerhards Nora M. , Cornelissen Jan B. W. J. , van Keulen Lucien J. M. , Harders-Westerveen José , Vloet Rianka , Smid Bregtje , Vastenhouw Stéphanie , van Oort Sophie , Hakze-van der Honing Renate W. , Gonzales Jose L. , Stockhofe-Zurwieden Norbert , de Jong Rineke , van der Poel Wim H. M. , Vreman Sandra , Kortekaas Jeroen , Wichgers Schreur Paul J. , Oreshkova Nadia
Published: July 2021

In assessing species susceptibility for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), and in the search for an appropriate animal model, multiple research groups around the world inoculated a broad range of animal species using various SARS-CoV-2 strains, doses and administration routes. Although in silico analyses based on receptor binding and diverse in vitro cell cultures were valuable, exact prediction of species susceptibility based on these tools proved challenging. Here, we assessed whether precision-cut lung slices (PCLS) could facilitate the selection of animal models, thereby reducing animal experimentation. Pig, hamster and cat PCLS were incubated with SARS-CoV-2 and virus replication was followed over time. Virus replicated efficiently in PCLS from hamsters and cats, while no evidence of replication was obtained for pig PCLS. These data corroborate the findings of many research groups that have investigated the susceptibility of hamsters, pigs and cats towards infection with SARS-CoV-2. Our findings suggest that PCLS can be used as convenient tool for the screening of different animal species for sensitivity to newly emerged viruses. To validate our results obtained in PCLS, we employed the hamster model. Hamsters were inoculated with SARS-CoV-2 via the intranasal route. Susceptibility to infection was evaluated by body weight loss, viral loads in oropharyngeal swabs and respiratory tissues and lung pathology. The broadly used hamster model was further refined by including activity tracking of the hamsters by an activity wheel as a very robust and sensitive parameter for clinical health. In addition, to facilitate the quantification of pathology in the lungs, we devised a semi-quantitative scoring system for evaluating the degree of histological changes in the lungs. The inclusion of these additional parameters refined and enriched the hamster model, allowing for the generation of more data from a single experiment.
Prospects of Using High-Throughput Proteomics to Underpin the Discovery of Animal Host–Nematode Interactions
Authors: Wang Tao , Gasser Robin B.
Published: July 2021

Parasitic nematodes impose a significant public health burden, and cause major economic losses to agriculture worldwide. Due to the widespread of anthelmintic resistance and lack of effective vaccines for most nematode species, there is an urgent need to discover novel therapeutic and vaccine targets, informed through an understanding of host–parasite interactions. Proteomics, underpinned by genomics, enables the global characterisation proteins expressed in a particular cell type, tissue and organism, and provides a key to insights at the host–parasite interface using advanced high-throughput mass spectrometry-based proteomic technologies. Here, we (i) review current mass-spectrometry-based proteomic methods, with an emphasis on a high-throughput ‘bottom-up’ approach; (ii) summarise recent progress in the proteomics of parasitic nematodes of animals, with a focus on molecules inferred to be involved in host–parasite interactions; and (iii) discuss future research directions that could enhance our knowledge and understanding of the molecular interplay between nematodes and host animals, in order to work toward new, improved methods for the treatment, diagnosis and control of nematodiases.
Emerging and Re-Emerging Diseases
Authors: Wang Wen-Hung , Thitithanyanont Arunee , Urbina Aspiro Nayim , Wang Sheng-Fan
Published: July 2021

Throughout history, infectious diseases have vastly impacted human civilization [...]
Use of Rv0222-Rv2657c-Rv1509 Fusion Protein to Improve the Accuracy of an Antibody ELISA for Extra-Pulmonary Tuberculosis in Humans
Authors: Chen Yingyu , Ge Pan , Zhang Kailun , Xiang Jie , Zhang Li , Robertson Ian D. , Guo Aizhen
Published: July 2021

(1) Background: Tuberculosis (TB) in humans is a serious chronic epidemic disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tb). The diagnosis of TB, especially extra-pulmonary TB (EPTB), is difficult. Isolation of M. tb from culture has a low sensitivity in patients with TB and an even lower sensitivity in cases of EPTB. Although Xpert MTB/RIF assays and serological tests are more sensitive than the above tests, they still lack sensitivity for EPTB diagnosis. (2) Methods: To improve the accuracy of TB diagnosis, a Rv0222-Rv2657c-Rv1509 fusion protein based iELISA was constructed, the diagnosis of TB, pulmonary TB (PTB) and EPTB was then evaluated. Sera of 40 TB patients including 14 with PTB, 14 with EPTB and 12 with no information about the form of TB, and five pneumonia patients were investigated. (3) Results: The sensitivity of the ELISA in TB, PTB and EPTB patients was 80% (95% CI: 64.4, 90.9%), 85.7% (95% CI: 57.2, 98.2%) and 92.8% (95% CI: 66.1, 99.8%), respectively, with a specificity of 70% (95% CI: 53.5, 83.4%). Both the sensitivity and specificity with this fusion protein were higher than for CFP10/ESAT6 (used as reference antigen) fusion protein (71.4%; 95% CI: 41.9, 91.6%, and 67.5%; 95% CI: 50.9, 81.4%), respectively, in cases of EPTB. All pneumonia patients’ sera tested negative in both ELISAs. (4) Conclusion: use of these new fusion proteins as antigens in serological assays has the potential to improve the diagnosis of all forms of TB in humans, especially EPTB.
Safe and Effective Treatment of Intracranial Infantile Hemangiomas with Beta-Blockers
Authors: Naughton Aoife , Ong Ariel Yuhan , Hildebrand Goran Darius
Published: July 2021

Infantile hemangiomas are common benign vascular tumors but are rarely found in an intracranial location. Our literature review identified 41 reported cases. There is no general consensus on management of these rare lesions and until recently, treatment was limited to surgery or pharmacological management with steroids or interferon. Although beta-blockers have been widely prescribed in the treatment of cutaneous infantile hemangiomas since 2008, their use in the treatment of intracranial infantile hemangiomas has been minimal. We present a case of infantile hemangioma affecting the right orbit, associated with intracranial extension, causing intermittent right facial nerve palsy. The patient achieved an excellent outcome following combined treatment with oral propranolol and topical timolol maleate 0.5%, with complete regression of the lesion by 4 months. We conclude that beta-blockers are a safe and effective treatment of intracranial infantile hemangiomas and can be employed as first-line management of these lesions.
Atypically Protracted Course of Liver Involvement in Kawasaki Disease. Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Paglia Pamela , Nazzaro Lucia , De Anseris Anna Giulia Elena , Lettieri Milena , Colantuono Rossella , Rocco Maria Chiara , Siano Maria Anna , Biffaro Nicola , VAJRO Pietro
Published: July 2021

Hypertransaminasemia in patients with Kawasaki disease (KD) is reported to be transient. Here, we describe a child with an atypically protracted course of liver tests abnormalities and review the inherent literature. The patient was hospitalized at age 7-months for isolated hypertransaminasemia detected during a classical KD diagnosed 3 months before, and persistent since then. KD clinical evolution had been favorable, with rapid response to acetylsalicylic acid and intravenous immunoglobulins. Liver enzymes however remained persistently elevated with a fluctuating pattern (ALT > AST levels; peak of AST 186 IU/L and ALT 240 IU/L). During follow-up, the main causes of liver dysfunction had to be excluded through appropriate and extensive laboratory investigations. Transaminases values become steadily normal only 7 months after the acute presentation of KD. Conclusions: Our report shows that an atypically protracted courses of KD-related hypertransaminasemia above the previously reported temporal limits should be taken into account during the stepwise diagnostic approach to the patient’s liver dysfunction. Insidious acetylsalycilic acid-hepatotoxicity warrants consideration in the differential diagnosis.