bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimating Spatial Econometrics Models with Integrated Nested Laplace Approximation
Authors: Gómez-Rubio Virgilio , Bivand Roger S. , Rue Håvard
Published: August 2021

The integrated nested Laplace approximation (INLA) provides a fast and effective method for marginal inference in Bayesian hierarchical models. This methodology has been implemented in the R-INLA package which permits INLA to be used from within R statistical software. Although INLA is implemented as a general methodology, its use in practice is limited to the models implemented in the R-INLA package. Spatial autoregressive models are widely used in spatial econometrics but have until now been lacking from the R-INLA package. In this paper, we describe the implementation and application of a new class of latent models in INLA made available through R-INLA. This new latent class implements a standard spatial lag model. The implementation of this latent model in R-INLA also means that all the other features of INLA can be used for model fitting, model selection and inference in spatial econometrics, as will be shown in this paper. Finally, we will illustrate the use of this new latent model and its applications with two data sets based on Gaussian and binary outcomes.
New Zero-Density Results for Automorphic L-Functions of GL(n)
Authors: Ding Wenjing , Liu Huafeng , Zhang Deyu
Published: August 2021

Let L(s,π) be an automorphic L-function of GL(n), where π is an automorphic representation of group GL(n) over rational number field Q. In this paper, we study the zero-density estimates for L(s,π). Define Nπ(σ,T1,T2) = ♯ {ρ = β + iγ: L(ρ,π) = 0, σ<β<1, T1≤γ≤T2}, where 0≤σ<1 and T1<T2. We first establish an upper bound for Nπ(σ,T,2T) when σ is close to 1. Then we restrict the imaginary part γ into a narrow strip [T,T+Tα] with 0<α≤1 and prove some new zero-density results on Nπ(σ,T,T+Tα) under specific conditions, which improves previous results when σ near 34 and 1, respectively. The proofs rely on the zero detecting method and the Halász-Montgomery method.
An Overview of New Insights into the Benefits of the Seagrass Posidonia oceanica for Human Health
Authors: Vasarri Marzia , De Biasi Anna Maria , Barletta Emanuela , Pretti Carlo , Degl’Innocenti Donatella
Published: August 2021

Posidonia oceanica (L.) Delile is a Mediterranean-endemic angiosperm often described for its great ecological importance. Despite evidence of a millennia-old relationship between P. oceanica and humans, as well as traditional medicine applications, the potential benefits of P. oceanica for human health have been documented only recently. This review aims to compile newly acquired knowledge on P. oceanica bioactive properties that allow the scientific community to look at this plant as a promising source of natural therapeutical products for human health. Experimental investigations conducted in both in vitro cellular-based and in vivo animal models pave the way for new research projects aiming at the development of alternative and complementary therapeutic strategies based on P. oceanica against a wide range of pathological conditions.
Multicomponent Spiral Wound Membrane Separation Model for CO2 Removal from Natural Gas
Authors: Abdul Latif Abdul Aiman , Lau Kok Keong , Low Siew Chun , Azeem Babar
Published: August 2021

A spiral wound membrane (SWM) is employed to separate acid gases (mainly CO2) from natural gas due to its robustness, lower manufacturing cost, and moderate packing density compared to hollow fiber membranes. Various mathematical models are available to describe the separation performance of SWMs under different operating conditions. Nevertheless, most of the mathematical models deal with only binary gas mixtures (CO2 and CH4) that may lead to an inaccurate assessment of separation performance of multicomponent natural gas mixtures. This work is aimed to develop an SWM separation model for multicomponent natural gas mixtures. The succession stage method is employed to discretize the separation process within the multicomponent SWM module for evaluating the product purity, hydrocarbon loss, stage cut, and permeate acid gas composition. Our results suggest that multicomponent systems tend to generate higher product purity, lower hydrocarbon loss, and augmented permeate acid gas composition compared to the binary system. Furthermore, different multicomponent systems yield varied separation performances depending on the component of the acid gas. The developed multicomponent SWM separation model has the potential to design and optimize the spiral wound membrane system for industrial application.
The Efficient Removal of Calcium and Magnesium Ions from Industrial Manganese Sulfate Solution through the Integrated Application of Concentrated Sulfuric Acid and Ethanol
Authors: Chen Houyang , Wang Kaituo , Ming Xianquan , Zhan Feng , Muhammad Yaseen , Wei Yuezhou , Li Weijian , Zhan Haiqing
Published: August 2021

In the process of preparing high-purity MnSO4 from industrial MnSO4 solution, it is difficult to remove Ca2+ and Mg2+ due to their closely similar properties. In this study, thermodynamic software simulation and experimental procedures were combined to remove Ca2+ and Mg2+ from industrial MnSO4 solution to obtain high-purity MnSO4. The simulation model was applied to predict the trend of the crystallization of different ions in the solution upon the addition of H2SO4, which revealed that, at a volume ratio of H2SO4 to MnSO4 solution of more than 0.2, MnSO4 started to crystallize and precipitate. The experimental results further verified the simulation results, and the yield of MnSO4 increased with the increasing ratio of H2SO4, while the removal rate of Ca2+ and Mg2+ decreased gradually. Keeping the economic aspect in mind, the 0.3 ratio of H2SO4 was selected at which the yield of MnSO4 reached 86.44%. The removal rate of Ca2+ and Mg2+ by recrystallization reached 99.68% and 99.17% respectively after six consecutive cycles. The recrystallized sample was washed twice with anhydrous ethanol (volume ratio of ethanol to MnSO4 solution of 0.5) and dried for 6 h at 120 °C, and the purity of MnSO4·H2O reached the battery grade requirements with the final yield as high as 80.54%. This study provides important guideline information for the purification of MnSO4·H2O from industrial MnSO4 solution via a cost-effective, simple and facile approach.
Influence of Dysprosium Compounds on the Extraction Behavior of Dy from Nd-Dy-Fe-B Magnet Using Liquid Magnesium
Authors: Nam Sun-Woo , Park Sang-Min , Rasheed Mohammad Zarar , Song Myung-Suk , Kim Do-Hyang , Kim Taek-Soo
Published: August 2021

During the liquid metal extraction reaction between a Nd-Dy-Fe-B magnet and liquid Mg, Nd rapidly diffuses out of the magnet, whereas Dy is not extracted due to the reaction with the matrix and the formation of Dy2Fe17 phase. In addition, theDy2O3 phase exists at the grain boundaries. Until now, only the effect of the Dy2O3 phase on the extraction of Dy has been reported. In this study, the effect of the Dy2Fe17 phase on the extraction of Dy from the Nd-Dy-Fe-B magnet was investigated in liquid Mg. The formation of the Dy2Fe17 phase during the reaction between Mg and matrix (RE2Fe14B) was first examined using a thermodynamical approach and confirmed by microstructural analysis. It was observed that Dy extraction was dominated by Dy2Fe17 phase decomposition from 3 h to 24 h, followed by Dy2O3 phase dominant reaction with Mg. Comparing the activities of the Dy2Fe17 phase and the Dy2O3 phase, the reaction of Dy2Fe17 is dominant, as compared to the Dy2O3 phase. Finally, at 48 h, the high Dy extraction percentage of 93% was achieved. As a result, in was concluded that the Dy2Fe17 phase acts as an obstacle in the extraction of Dy. In the future, if research to control the Dy2Fe17 phase proceeds, it will be of great importance to advance the recycling of Dy.
The Cooperation of Bifidobacterium longum and Active Vitamin D3 on Innate Immunity in Salmonella Colitis Mice via Vitamin D Receptor
Authors: Huang Fu-Chen , Huang Shun-Chen
Published: August 2021

Salmonella spp. remains a major public health problem for the whole world. Intestinal epithelial cells serve as an essential component of the mucosal innate immune system to defend against Salmonella infection. Our in vitro studies showed probiotics and active vitamin D have similar effects on innate immunity in Salmonella-infected intestinal epithelial cells, including antimicrobial peptide and inflammatory responses, to protect the host against infection while downregulating detrimental overwhelming inflammation. Hence, we investigated the synergistic effects of probiotics and active vitamin D on Salmonella colitis and translocation to liver and spleen by in vitro and in vivo studies. The Salmonella colitis model is conducted with 6–8 w/o male C57BL/6 mice: Streptomycin (20 mg/mouse p.o.)-pretreated C57BL/6 mice are mock infected with sterile PBS or infected orally with 1 × 108 CFU of a S. Typhimurium wild-type strain SL1344 for 48 h. The mice in the treated groups received 1, 25D daily (0.2 ug/25 g/d) and/or 1 × 108 CFU of probiotics, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) and Bifidobacterium longum (BL) by intragastric administration for 14 days. The in vivo study demonstrated the combination of probiotic Bifidobacterium longum and active vitamin D3 had the synergistic effects on reducing the severity of Salmonella colitis and body weight loss in C57BL/6 mice by reducing cecal inflammatory mIL-6, mIL-8, mTNF-α and mIL-1β mRNA responses, blocking the translocation of bacteria while enhancing the antimicrobial peptide mhBD-3 mRNA in comparison to the infection only group. However, LGG did not have the same synergistic effects. It suggests the synergistic effects of Bifidobacterium longum and active vitamin D on the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory responses in Salmonella colitis. Therefore, our in vivo studies demonstrated that the combination of probiotic Bifidobacterium longum and active vitamin D3 has the synergistic effects on reducing the severity of Salmonella colitis via the suppression of inflammatory responses, and blocking the translocation of bacteria through the enhancement of antimicrobial peptides.
Device Design Modifications Informed by In Vitro Testing of Bacterial Attachment Reduce Infection Rates of Cochlear Implants in Clinical Practice
Authors: Turnbull Lynne , Leigh Roger , Cavaliere Rosalia , Osvath Sarah R. , Nolan Laura M. , Smyth Daniel , Verhoeven Kristien , Chole Richard A. , Whitchurch Cynthia B.
Published: August 2021

Recalcitrant chronic infections of implanted medical devices are often linked to the presence of biofilms. The prevention and treatment of medical device-associated infections is a major source of antibiotic use and driver of antimicrobial resistance globally. Lowering the incidence of infection in patients that receive implanted medical devices could therefore significantly improve antibiotic stewardship and reduce patient morbidity. Here we determined if modifying the design of an implantable medical device to reduce bacterial attachment, impacted the incidence of device-associated infections in clinical practice. Since the 1980s cochlear implants have provided long-term treatment of sensorineural hearing deficiency in hundreds of thousands of patients world-wide. Nonetheless, a relatively small number of devices are surgically explanted each year due to unresolvable infections. Features associated with the accumulation of bacteria on the Cochlear™ Nucleus® CI24RE™ model of cochlear implant devices were identified using both in vitro bacterial attachment assays and examination of explanted devices. Macro-scale design modifications that reduced bacterial attachment in vitro were incorporated into the design of the CI500™ and Profile™ series of Nucleus implant. Analyses of mandatory post-market vigilance data of 198,757 CI24RE and 123,084 CI500/Profile series implantation surgeries revealed that these design modifications correlated with significantly reduced infection rates. This study demonstrates that a design-centric approach aimed at mitigating bacterial attachment was a simple, and effective means of reducing infections associated with Cochlear Nucleus devices. This approach is likely to be applicable to improving the designs of other implantable medical devices to reduce device-associated infections.
Application of Polyamines and Amino Acid Derivatives Based on 2-Azabicycloalkane Backbone in Enantioselective Aldol Reaction
Authors: Iwan Dominika , Kamińska Karolina , Wojaczyńska Elżbieta
Published: August 2021

Carbon–carbon bond forming reactions, such as aldol reaction and condensation, belong to extremely desired transformations as manifested by >25,000 entries in SciFinder. Their stereoselective variant requires the use of an appropriate catalyst with a strictly defined structure. Hence, chiral 2-azabicycloalkane-based catalysts were designed, synthesized and tested in a stereoselective aldol reaction between cyclic/acyclic ketone and p-nitrobenzaldehyde both in organic and aqueous media. Among catalysts containing a chiral bicyclic backbone, amide based on 2-azabicyclo[3.2.1]octane and pyrrolidine units showed the best catalytic activity and afforded aldol product in excellent chemical yields (up to 95%) and good diastereo- and enantioselectivity (dr 22:78, ee up to 63%).
An Efficient Strategy for Enhancing the Adsorption of Antibiotics and Drugs from Aqueous Solutions Using an Effective Limestone-Activated Carbon–Alginate Nanocomposite
Authors: H. Ragab Ahmed , Hussein Hala S. , Ahmed Inas A. , Abualnaja Khamael M. , AlMasoud Najla
Published: August 2021

Based on the adsorption performance of a porous nanocomposite with limestone (LS), activated carbon (AC) and sodium alginate (SG), a unique, multifunctional LS–AC–SG nanocomposite absorbent was designed and prepared for extracting antibiotics and drugs from aqueous solutions. The composite exhibited the following advantages: quick and simple to prepare, multifunctionality and high efficiency. Amoxicillin (AMX) and diclofenac (DCF) were chosen as the conventional antibiotic and the drug, respectively. The prepared nanocomposite’s physicochemical characteristics were calculated through numerous characterization methods. The structure of the surface was made up of interconnected pores that can easily confine pollutants. The surface area was measured to be 27.85 m2/g through BET analysis. The results show that the maximum absorption capacity of amoxicillin and diclofenac was 99.6% and 98.4%, respectively, at a contact time of 40 min. The maximum removal of amoxicillin and diclofenac was reached at pH = 2. Adsorption analysis revealed that adsorption isotherm and kinetic data matched the pseudo-first-order kinetic and the Langmuir isotherm models. The results imply that the synthesized nanocomposites have the capacity to remove amoxicillin (AMX) and diclofenac (DCF) from aqueous solutions.
Recent Advances in Micro/Nanomaterial-Based Aptamer Selection Strategies
Authors: Kim Dong-Min , Go Myeong-June , Lee Jingyu , Na Dokyun , Yoo Seung-Min
Published: August 2021

Aptamers are artificial nucleic acid ligands that have been employed in various fundamental studies and applications, such as biological analyses, disease diagnostics, targeted therapeutics, and environmental pollutant detection. This review focuses on the recent advances in aptamer discovery strategies that have been used to detect various chemicals and biomolecules. Recent examples of the strategies discussed here are based on the classification of these micro/nanomaterial-mediated systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (SELEX) platforms into three categories: bead-mediated, carbon-based nanomaterial-mediated, and other nanoparticle-mediated strategies. In addition to describing the advantages and limitations of the aforementioned strategies, this review discusses potential strategies to develop high-performance aptamers.
Effect of Artemisinin-Loaded Mesoporous Cerium-Doped Calcium Silicate Nanopowder on Cell Proliferation of Human Periodontal Ligament Fibroblasts
Authors: Tsamesidis Ioannis , Gkiliopoulos Dimitrios , Pouroutzidou Georgia K. , Lymperaki Evgenia , Papoulia Chrysanthi , Reybier Karine , Perio Pierre , Paraskevopoulos Konstantinos M. , Kontonasaki Eleana , Theocharidou Anna
Published: August 2021

Ion doping has rendered mesoporous structures important materials in the field of tissue engineering, as apart from drug carriers, they can additionally serve as regenerative materials. The purpose of the present study was the synthesis, characterization and evaluation of the effect of artemisinin (ART)-loaded cerium-doped mesoporous calcium silicate nanopowders (NPs) on the hemocompatibility and cell proliferation of human periodontal ligament fibroblasts (hPDLFs). Mesoporous NPs were synthesized in a basic environment via a surfactant assisted cooperative self-assembly process and were characterized using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), X-ray Fluorescence Spectroscopy (XRF), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray Diffraction Analysis (XRD) and N2 Porosimetry. The loading capacity of NPs was evaluated using Ultrahigh Performance Liquid Chromatography/High resolution Mass Spectrometry (UHPLC/HRMS). Their biocompatibility was evaluated with the MTT assay, and the analysis of reactive oxygen species was performed using the cell-permeable ROS-sensitive probe 2′,7′-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (H2DCFDA). The synthesized NPs presented a mesoporous structure with a surface area ranging from 1312 m2/g for undoped silica to 495 m2/g for the Ce-doped NPs, excellent bioactivity after a 1-day immersion in c-SBF, hemocompatibility and a high loading capacity (around 80%). They presented ROS scavenging properties, and both the unloaded and ART-loaded NPs significantly promoted cell proliferation even at high concentrations of NPs (125 μg/mL). The ART-loaded Ce-doped NPs with the highest amount of cerium slightly restricted cell proliferation after 7 days of culture, but the difference was not significant compared with the control untreated cells.
Novel Blue-Wavelength-Blocking Contact Lens with Er3+/TiO2 NPs: Manufacture and Characterization
Authors: Shaker Lina Mohammed , Alamiery Ahmed , Takriff Mohd , Wan Isahak Wan Nor Roslam
Published: August 2021

Thermally stable titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) doped with erbium ions (Er3+) are characterized by uniformity, low excitation energy, and high surface area. The impregnation methodology was used to enhance the optical properties of TiO2 NPs impregnated with various Er3+ ion contents. The synthesized Er3+/TiO2 samples were characterized by energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), metal mapping, UV–Visible spectrum, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The Er3+ ions, per our findings, were well-distributed on the TiO2 surface of the anatase phase and there was an insignificant difference in particle size, but there was no change in the particle shapes of the Er3+/TiO2 NPs structure. The maximum band gap degradation occurred with 1.8 wt % of Er3+/TiO2, where the energy gap degraded from 3.13 to 2.63 eV for intrinsic TiO2. The synthesized Er3+/TiO2 samples possess predominantly finely dispersed erbium ion species on the surface. Er3+ ions agglomeration on the surface increased with increasing ions in each sample. We found that 0.6 wt/vol % of Er+3/TiO2 is the best optical coating and produced satisfying results in terms of blocking the transmittance of blue wavelength without reducing the image quality.
A Retrospective Survey among SARS-CoV-1 Infected Healthcare Workers after Three Years Post-Infection
Authors: Huang Szu-Wei , Urbina Aspiro Nayim , Chen Yi-Ming Arthur , Wang Sheng-Fan
Published: August 2021

Healthcare workers (HCWs) are on the frontline fighting several infectious diseases including SARS-CoV-1 and COVID-19. Coronavirus neutralizing antibodies (nAbs) were recently reported to last for a certain period. The factors affecting nAbs’ existence remain unclear. Here, we retrospectively analyzed the factors correlating with nAbs’ from SARS-CoV-1 long-term convalescence HCWs in Taiwan. One hundred and thirty SARS-CoV-1 convalescent patients were recruited between August 2006 and March 2007. Blood samples were collected to determine the anti-nucleocapsid (N) and anti-spike (S) antibodies’ existence status and neutralization ability. Neutralization ability was measured using SARS-CoV-1 pseudotyped viruses. Statistical analysis of factors associated with anti-SARS-CoV-1 antibodies’ existence status was determined using SAS software. 46.2% SARS-CoV-1 convalescent patients presented anti-N antibody after three years post-infection. Among sixty participants, ten participants co-presented anti-S antibodies. Eight participants with anti-S antibody displayed neutralization ability to SARS-CoV-1. The gender, age, and disease severity of participants did not affect the anti-N antibody existence status, whereas the anti-S antibody is significantly reduced in participants with old age (>50 years, p = 0.0434) after three years post SARS-CoV-1 infection. This study suggests that age is an important factor correlated with the duration of SARS-CoV-1 protective antibody existence status.
Involvement of the Histone-Like Nucleoid Structuring Protein (H-NS) in Acinetobacter baumannii’s Natural Transformation
Authors: Le Casin , Pimentel Camila , Tuttobene Marisel R. , Subils Tomás , Escalante Jenny , Nishimura Brent , Arriaga Susana , Rodgers Deja , Bonomo Robert A. , Sieira Rodrigo , Tolmasky Marcelo E. , Ramírez María Soledad
Published: August 2021

Most Acinetobacter baumannii strains are naturally competent. Although some information is available about factors that enhance or reduce the frequency of the transformation of this bacterium, the regulatory elements and mechanisms are barely understood. In this article, we describe studies on the role of the histone-like nucleoid structuring protein, H-NS, in the regulation of the expression of genes related to natural competency and the ability to uptake foreign DNA. The expression levels of the natural transformation-related genes pilA, pilT, pilQ, comEA, comEC, comF, and drpA significantly increased in a Δhns derivative of A. baumannii A118. The complementation of the mutant with a recombinant plasmid harboring hns restored the expression levels of six of these genes (pilT remained expressed at high levels) to those of the wild-type strain. The transformation frequency of the A. baumannii A118 Δhns strain was significantly higher than that of the wild-type. Similar, albeit not identical, there were consequences when hns was deleted from the hypervirulent A. baumannii AB5075 strain. In the AB5075 complemented strain, the reduction in gene expression in a few cases was not so pronounced that it reached wild-type levels, and the expression of comEA was enhanced further. In conclusion, the expression of all seven transformation-related genes was enhanced after deleting hns in A. baumannii A118 and AB5075, and these modifications were accompanied by an increase in the cells’ transformability. The results highlight a role of H-NS in A. baumannii’s natural competence.
Performance Comparison of Feature Generation Algorithms for Mosaic Photoacoustic Microscopy
Authors: Le Thanh Dat , Kwon Seong Young , Lee Changho
Published: August 2021

Mosaic imaging is a computer vision process that is used for merging multiple overlapping imaging patches into a wide-field-of-view image. To achieve a wide-field-of-view photoacoustic microscopy (PAM) image, the limitations of the scan range of PAM require a merging process, such as marking the location of patches or merging overlapping areas between adjacent images. By using the mosaic imaging process, PAM shows a larger field view of targets and preserves the quality of the spatial resolution. As an essential process in mosaic imaging, various feature generation methods have been used to estimate pairs of image locations. In this study, various feature generation algorithms were applied and analyzed using a high-resolution mouse ear PAM image dataset to achieve and optimize a mosaic imaging process for wide-field PAM imaging. We compared the performance of traditional and deep learning feature generation algorithms by estimating the processing time, the number of matches, good matching ratio, and matching efficiency. The analytic results indicate the successful implementation of wide-field PAM images, realized by applying suitable methods to the mosaic PAM imaging process.
Optical Solitons and Vortices in Fractional Media: A Mini-Review of Recent Results
Authors: Malomed Boris A.
Published: August 2021

The article produces a brief review of some recent results which predict stable propagation of solitons and solitary vortices in models based on the nonlinear Schrödinger equation (NLSE) including fractional one-dimensional or two-dimensional diffraction and cubic or cubic-quintic nonlinear terms, as well as linear potentials. The fractional diffraction is represented by fractional-order spatial derivatives of the Riesz type, defined in terms of the direct and inverse Fourier transform. In this form, it can be realized by spatial-domain light propagation in optical setups with a specially devised combination of mirrors, lenses, and phase masks. The results presented in the article were chiefly obtained in a numerical form. Some analytical findings are included too, in particular, for fast moving solitons and the results produced by the variational approximation. Moreover, dissipative solitons are briefly considered, which are governed by the fractional complex Ginzburg–Landau equation.
Protein, Amino Acid, Oil, Fatty Acid, Sugar, Anthocyanin, Isoflavone, Lutein, and Antioxidant Variations in Colored Seed-Coated Soybeans
Authors: Dhungana Sanjeev Kumar , Seo Jeong-Hyun , Kang Beom-Kyu , Park Ji-Hee , Kim Jun-Hoi , Sung Jung-Sook , Baek In-Youl , Shin Sang-Ouk , Jung Chan-Sik
Published: August 2021

Different physiological and genetic studies show that the variations in the accumulation of pigment-stimulating metabolites result in color differences in soybean seed coats. The objective of this study was to analyze the nutrient contents and antioxidant potential in black, brown, and green seed-coated soybeans. Significant variations in protein (38.9–43.3%), oil (13.9–20.4%), total sugar (63.5–97.0 mg/g seed), total anthocyanin (3826.0–21,856.0 μg/g seed coat), total isoflavone (709.5–3394.3 μg/g seed), lutein (1.9–14.8 μg/g), total polyphenol (123.0–385.8 mg gallic acid/100 g seed), total flavonoid (22.1–208.5 mg catechin/100 g seed), 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonic acid (ABTS; 275.0–818.8 mg Trolox/100 g seed), and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH; 96.3–579.7 mg Trolox/100 g seed) were found among the soybean genotypes. Ilpumgeomjeong2 contained the lowest protein but the highest oil and total sugar. The lowest oil-containing Wonheug had the highest protein content. Socheong2 was rich in all four variables of antioxidants. Anthocyanins were detected only in black soybeans but not in brown and green soybeans. The variation in isoflavone content was up to 5-fold among the soybean genotypes. This study could be a valuable resource for the selection and improvement of soybean because an understanding of the nutrient content and antioxidant potentials is useful to develop effective strategies for improving the economic traits; for example, the major emphasis of soybean breeding for fatty acids is to enhance the oleic and linoleic acid contents and to decrease linolenic acid content.
Light Microclimate-Driven Changes at Transcriptional Level in Photosynthetic Grape Berry Tissues
Authors: Garrido Andreia , De Vos Ric C. H. , Conde Artur , Cunha Ana
Published: August 2021

Viticulture practices that change the light distribution in the grapevine canopy can interfere with several physiological mechanisms, such as grape berry photosynthesis and other metabolic pathways, and consequently impact the berry biochemical composition, which is key to the final wine quality. We previously showed that the photosynthetic activity of exocarp and seed tissues from a white cultivar (Alvarinho) was in fact responsive to the light microclimate in the canopy (low and high light, LL and HL, respectively), and that these different light microclimates also led to distinct metabolite profiles, suggesting a berry tissue-specific interlink between photosynthesis and metabolism. In the present work, we analyzed the transcript levels of key genes in exocarps and seed integuments of berries from the same cultivar collected from HL and LL microclimates at three developmental stages, using real-time qPCR. In exocarp, the expression levels of genes involved in carbohydrate metabolism (VvSuSy1), phenylpropanoid (VvPAL1), stilbenoid (VvSTS1), and flavan-3-ol synthesis (VvDFR, VvLAR2, and VvANR) were highest at the green stage. In seeds, the expression of several genes associated with both phenylpropanoid (VvCHS1 and VvCHS3) and flavan-3-ol synthesis (VvDFR and VvLAR2) showed a peak at the véraison stage, whereas that of RuBisCO was maintained up to the mature stage. Overall, the HL microclimate, compared to that of LL, resulted in a higher expression of genes encoding elements associated with both photosynthesis (VvChlSyn and VvRuBisCO), carbohydrate metabolism (VvSPS1), and photoprotection (carotenoid pathways genes) in both tissues. HL also induced the expression of the VvFLS1 gene, which was translated into a higher activity of the FLS enzyme producing flavonol-type flavonoids, whereas the expression of several other flavonoid pathway genes (e.g., VvCHS3, VvSTS1, VvDFR, and VvLDOX) was reduced, suggesting a specific role of flavonols in photoprotection of berries growing in the HL microclimate. This work suggests a possible link at the transcriptional level between berry photosynthesis and pathways of primary and secondary metabolism, and provides relevant information for improving the management of the light microenvironment at canopy level of the grapes.
Agro-Alimentary Potential of the Neglected and Underutilized Local Endemic Plants of Crete (Greece), Rif-Mediterranean Coast of Morocco and Tunisia: Perspectives and Challenges
Authors: Libiad Mohamed , Khabbach Abdelmajid , El Haissoufi Mohamed , Anestis Ioannis , Lamchouri Fatima , Bourgou Soumaya , Megdiche-Ksouri Wided , Ghrabi-Gammar Zeineb , Greveniotis Vasileios , Tsiripidis Ioannis , Dariotis Eleftherios , Tsiafouli Maria A. , Krigas Nikos
Published: August 2021

The neglected and underutilized plants (NUPs) could become alternative food sources in the agro-alimentary sector, enriching human and animal diets, offering the opportunity for sustainable exploitation, resilience to climate change, and production with resistance to pests and diseases. In the Mediterranean countries, these valuable resources are threatened by climate change, overexploitation, and/or monoculture. In this framework, we evaluated 399 local endemic NUPs of Crete (Greece), the Mediterranean coast, Rif of Morocco, and Tunisia, regarding their agro-alimentary potential, and assessed their feasibility and readiness timescale for sustainable exploitation with own previously published methodology. The methodological scheme was developed by experts in co-creative workshops, using point-scoring of seven attributes to evaluate the potential of the targeted NUPs in the agro-alimentary. Our results showed a diversity of promising local endemic NUPs of different families in the studied regions (Lamiaceae members are prominent), and we outlined the cases of 13 taxa with the highest optimum scores of agro-alimentary potential (>70%). Despite the diversity or the promising potential and current ex-situ conservation efforts to bridge gaps, our study indicated that only a few cases of Cretan local endemic NUPs can be sustainably exploited in the short-term. However, it is argued that many more local endemic NUPs can easily follow sustainable exploitation schemes if specific research gaps are bridged. Since NUPs can help to increased diversification of food production systems by adding new nutritional/beneficial species to human and animal diets, basic and applied research, as well as market and stakeholder attraction, is suggested as prerequisite to unlock the full potential of the focal endemic NUPs in the agro-alimentary sector.
Corruption, Shadow Economy and Deforestation: Friends or Strangers?
Authors: Cozma Adeline-Cristina , (Bodescu) Cotoc Corina-Narcisa , Vaidean Viorela Ligia , Achim Monica Violeta
Published: August 2021

This study aims to reveal the connection between corruption and shadow economy, on one hand, and deforestation, on the other. The research considers 131 countries from all over the world, in the timeframe between the years 2012 and 2020, and it reveals that corruption and shadow economy positively influence deforestation. Determinants like democratic governance quality, press freedom, wood export share, and culture are also key factors in implementing the right, efficient countermeasures aimed at reducing the levels of illegal deforestation and sustainably managing the forestland. The importance of this study is to provide a solid quantitative basis to decision-makers that come across this problem of illegal logging through a better, fact-based understanding of the phenomenon.
The Internet of Drones: Requirements, Taxonomy, Recent Advances, and Challenges of Research Trends
Authors: Abdelmaboud Abdelzahir
Published: August 2021

The use of unmanned aerial vehicles or drones are a valuable technique in coping with issues related to life in the general public’s daily routines. Given the growing number of drones in low-altitude airspace, linking drones to form the Internet of drones (IoD) is a highly desirable trend to improve the safety as well as the quality of flight. However, there remain security, privacy, and communication issues related to IoD. In this paper, we discuss the key requirements of security, privacy, and communication and we present a taxonomy of IoD based on the most relevant considerations. Furthermore, we present the most commonly used commercial case studies and address the latest advancements and solutions proposed for the IoD environments. Lastly, we discuss the challenges and future research directions of IoD.
Low-Voltage DC-DC Converter for IoT and On-Chip Energy Harvester Applications
Authors: Potocny Miroslav , Kovac Martin , Arbet Daniel , Sovcik Michal , Nagy Lukas , Stopjakova Viera , Ravasz Richard
Published: August 2021

The power saving issue and clean energy harvesting for wireless and cost-affordable electronics (e.g., IoT applications, sensor nodes or medical implants), have recently become attractive research topics. With this in mind, the paper addresses one of the most important parts of the energy conversion system chain – the power management unit. The core of such a unit will be formed by an inductorless, low-voltage DC-DC converter based on the cross-coupled dynamic-threshold charge pump topology. The charge pump utilizes a power-efficient ON/OFF regulation feedback loop, specially designed for strict low-voltage start-up conditions by a driver booster. Taken together, they serve as the masters to control the charge pump output (up to 600 mV), depending on the voltage value produced by a renewable energy source available in the environment. The low-power feature is also ensured by a careful design of the hysteresis-based bulk-driven comparator and fully integrated switched-capacitor voltage divider, omitting the static power consumption. The presented converter can also employ the on-chip RF-based energy harvester for use in a wireless power transfer system.
Early Warning of Gas Concentration in Coal Mines Production Based on Probability Density Machine
Authors: Cai Yadong , Wu Shiqi , Zhou Ming , Gao Shang , Yu Hualong
Published: August 2021

Gas explosion has always been an important factor restricting coal mine production safety. The application of machine learning techniques in coal mine gas concentration prediction and early warning can effectively prevent gas explosion accidents. Nearly all traditional prediction models use a regression technique to predict gas concentration. Considering there exist very few instances of high gas concentration, the instance distribution of gas concentration would be extremely imbalanced. Therefore, such regression models generally perform poorly in predicting high gas concentration instances. In this study, we consider early warning of gas concentration as a binary-class problem, and divide gas concentration data into warning class and non-warning class according to the concentration threshold. We proposed the probability density machine (PDM) algorithm with excellent adaptability to imbalanced data distribution. In this study, we use the original gas concentration data collected from several monitoring points in a coal mine in Datong city, Shanxi Province, China, to train the PDM model and to compare the model with several class imbalance learning algorithms. The results show that the PDM algorithm is superior to the traditional and state-of-the-art class imbalance learning algorithms, and can produce more accurate early warning results for gas explosion.
Uncertainty of Size-Exclusion Chromatography Method in Quality Control of Bevacizumab Batches
Authors: Oliva Alexis , Llabrés Matías
Published: August 2021

In addition to the analytical challenges related to the size and complexity of biopharmaceutical drugs, the inherent variability that arises due to their manufacturing process requires monitoring throughout the production process to ensure the safety and efficacy of the finished product. In this step, validation data should demonstrate that the process is controlled and reproducible, whereas the manufacturing process must ensure the quality and consistency of the product. For this, the manufacturer sets specification limits according with regulatory guidance. In such a situation, the comparison of different batches is required in order to describe and analyze the variability between them. However, it is unclear how great the variability of the analytical method would be or that in producing the batches. The estimation of the β-expectation tolerance intervals based on the variance components to account for both between-batch and within-batch variability was proposed as a specification limit to control the heterogeneity between batches at the time of manufacture and to verify whether batches meet specification limits. At this point, the variance components were computed by the maximum likelihood method using a linear random model. For this, the protein content, expressed as a percentage of the actual concentration relative to the claim value, and the dimer content (expressed as percentage) were used as critical quality attributes (CQAs) in the monitoring and control process. We used real data from six bevacizumab commercial batches.
The COVID-19 Pandemic and Latvia–Russia Relations: Landscape for Desecuritization or Further Securitization?
Authors: Andžāns Māris , Bērziņa-Čerenkova Una Aleksandra
Published: August 2021

This article revisits the traditionally jittery Latvian–Russian relations during the COVID-19 pandemic through the lens of securitization. Though the pandemic might have offered less space for confrontation and possible prospects for differentiation of (de)securitization vectors, the mutual securitization processes have continued in the vein of previous years. Furthermore, they have showed no signs of easing as not only have the traditional issues remained securitized but new thematic areas both related and unrelated to the pandemic have taken center stage. All in all, the pandemic has opened new avenues for securitization, though it had no fundamental impact on the established securitization trends.
Post-Processing of 3D-Printed Polymers
Authors: Dizon John Ryan C. , Gache Ciara Catherine L. , Cascolan Honelly Mae S. , Cancino Lina T. , Advincula Rigoberto C.
Published: August 2021

Additive manufacturing, commonly known as 3D printing, is an advancement over traditional formative manufacturing methods. It can increase efficiency in manufacturing operations highlighting advantages such as rapid prototyping, reduction of waste, reduction of manufacturing time and cost, and increased flexibility in a production setting. The additive manufacturing (AM) process consists of five steps: (1) preparation of 3D models for printing (designing the part/object), (2) conversion to STL file, (3) slicing and setting of 3D printing parameters, (4) actual printing, and (5) finishing/post-processing methods. Very often, the 3D printed part is sufficient by itself without further post-printing processing. However, many applications still require some forms of post-processing, especially those for industrial applications. This review focuses on the importance of different finishing/post-processing methods for 3D-printed polymers. Different 3D printing technologies and materials are considered in presenting the authors’ perspective. The advantages and disadvantages of using these methods are also discussed together with the cost and time in doing the post-processing activities. Lastly, this review also includes discussions on the enhancement of properties such as electrical, mechanical, and chemical, and other characteristics such as geometrical precision, durability, surface properties, and aesthetic value with post-printing processing. Future perspectives is also provided towards the end of this review.
A. A. Gromyko: diplomacy of a new world order
Authors: Grishaeva Lidiya Evgenievna
Published: August 2021

The author writes about the outstanding Soviet diplomat, politician and statesman A. A. Gromyko. On the priority directions of A. A. Gromyko. The fact that Soviet diplomacy, expressed by A. A. Gromyko, contributed to the victory of the countries of the Anti-Hitler coalition in World War II. About the United Nations — a new international organization of the nuclear era, with universal competence and a broad representative composition, in the creation of which A. A. Gromyko made a significant contribution. On the main provisions of the UN Charter, which is signed by A. A. Gromyko. On controversial issues on the formation of the foundations of the UN, in the solution of which A. A. Gromyko was directly involved: initial membership; the problem of "small countries"; “veto” rule; the composition and powers of the UN Security Council, etc. On agreements on the limitation of nuclear weapons, in the development of which A. A. Gromyko, who ensured the effectiveness of the "nuclear deterrent" strategy. On the principled position of A. A. Gromyko in the negotiations on the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962, which contributed to its settlement. About the professional qualities of A. A. Gromyko, about his mastery of the art of diplomacy, about his state thinking as a person, which ultimately led to the recognition of the USSR as a Great Power. The fact that the strategy of "nuclear deterrence", at the origins of the political and diplomatic development of which was A. A. Gromyko, still guarantees universal security. The fact that the "nuclear parity" of the opposing sides was achieved and legally formalized thanks to, among other things, the diplomatic efforts of A. A. Gromyko, which did not allow the Cold War to develop into an open nuclear confrontation. The author has convincingly shown that A. A. Gromyko was not just an ordinary government official, he really made a decisive personal contribution to the construction of a new post-war world order, which for more than 75 years has been ensuring the sustainable development of mankind without global wars.
Effects of Video Lecture Design and Production Quality on Student Outcomes: A Quasi-Experiment Exploiting Change in Online Course Development Principles
Authors: Rickley Marketa , Kemp Pavlina
Published: August 2021

In seeking competitive advantage, many online graduate programs have turned to improving the quality of video lectures by investing in instructional designers and in-studio production. However, it is unclear how much video lecture design and production quality improve student outcomes. We used a regression discontinuity to evaluate how video lecture design and production practices that adhere to principles of multimedia learning affect perceived learning and student satisfaction. The study involved 300 students taking an online graduate course at a large, public research university, where 194 students were exposed to video lectures designed and produced by the instructor and 106 students were exposed to video lectures designed in collaboration between the instructor and instructional designers and produced in studio. Our findings indicate that designing and producing video lectures in accordance with principles of multimedia learning has a meaningful causal effect on students’ perceived learning and a marginal effect on student satisfaction. We discuss the theoretical and practical implications of our findings for video lecture development and design in the context of online business education and the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Effect of Dow Jones Industrial Average, Nikkei 225 Index and Shanghai Composite Index on IDX Composite Index
Authors: Elfiswandi Elfiswandi , Sunaryo Sunaryo , Ramadhan Muhammad Fikri
Published: August 2021

The purpose of this study is to determine the effect of the Dow Jones Industrial Average, the Nikkei 225 index and the Shanghai Composite Index on IDX Composite Index. The population and samples used in this study are the Dow Jones Industrial Average, the Nikkei 225 Index, the Shanghai Composite Index, and the IDX Composite Index for the period January 2 to April 30, 2020. The type of data is secondary data. The analysis method used are classical assumption test which consists of normality test, multicollinearity test and autocorrelation test and multiple regression analysis. Hypothesis test using F-test and t-test. The results of the study found that the Dow Jones Industrial Average and the Nikkie 225 index partially affected the IDX Composite Index positively and significantly. The Shanghai Composite Index has no significant effect on IDX Composite Index.