bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Search for an Optimum in Thermal Systems and Processes
Authors: Jaluria Yogesh
Published: September 2022

This paper considers the optimization of thermal systems and processes, which are of interest in a wide range of practical applications, on the basis of mathematical and numerical modeling as well as experimental data. Many complexities, such as property variations, complicated regions, combined transport mechanisms, chemical reactions, and intricate boundary conditions, typically arise in these systems, making experimentation and numerical simulation quite challenging. Consequently, many studies have obtained detailed results on the processes without going further into system design. Also, many important systems have not been optimized for best performance or output. This paper focuses on the practical aspects of obtaining an optimum in thermal systems and processes. Of particular interest are validation of the model and linking the simulation with system performance, design, and optimization. Optimization is considered both for the operating conditions as well as for the hardware of the system. Starting with a feasible domain that leads to an acceptable design, different optimization strategies may be employed. Both deterministic conditions and those with uncertainty are of interest and are outlined. Of particular interest is multiobjective optimization, since most thermal systems involve several important objectives, such as heat transfer rate and pressure in electronic cooling systems and product quality and production rate in manufacturing systems. The optimization is often a constrained one due to limitations on materials, cost, and operating conditions that determine the acceptable domain. Nature is replete with interesting examples where constrained multiobjective optimization is employed by various living creatures for food, safety, mobility, and other aspects of survival. A study of such natural phenomena can also be used in technology as we seek an optimum. Such nature-inspired optimization is discussed. Overall, the focus is on realistic and practical approaches that may be adopted to optimize thermal systems and processes to minimize energy consumption, enhance productivity, reduce environmental impact, improve heat transfer and achieve other objectives.
A new, broadly distributed species of predacious mites, Neoseiulus neoagrestis sp. nov., (Acari: Phytoseiidae) discovered through GenBank data mining and extensive morphological analyses
Authors: Khaustov Vladimir A. , Döker Ismail , Joharchi Omid , Kazakov Denis V. , Khaustov Alexander A. , Moradi Maryam , Fang Xiao-Duan , Klimov Pavel
Published: September 2022

A new species of phytoseiid mites, Neoseiulus neoagrestis sp. nov., was described based on all ontogenetic stages and extensive comparison with types/vouchers of closely related species and a thorough analysis of GenBank data. Mite specimens were collected in an area at the eastern coast of the Black Sea of Russia and cultured. Molecular barcoding revealed a close match (100–99.25%) with several unidentified COX1 sequences from Canada. Both Canadian and Russian mites reproduced sexually and had consistent morphology, including the presence of gd2 gland pores, indicating that they belong to a single species, N. neoagrestis sp. nov. The presence of gd2 gland pores distinguishes N. neoagrestis sp. nov. from a closely related, parthenogenetic species N. agrestis (Karg), which lacks gd2 gland pores. Despite having an arguably negligible morphological difference, these two species were clearly distinct by COX1 sequences (19.95–22.01% K2P distances). We studied the ontogeny of N. neoagrestis sp. nov. and provided comparison with related Neoseiulus species. Furthermore, our examination of types of N. agrestis, N. salish, and N. striatus indicated that the latter two species are potential junior synonyms of N. agrestis.
Environmental risks from artificial nighttime lighting widespread and increasing across Europe
Authors: Sánchez de Miguel Alejandro , Bennie Jonathan , Rosenfeld Emma , Dzurjak Simon , Gaston Kevin J.
Published: September 2022

The nighttime environment of much of Earth is being changed rapidly by the introduction of artificial lighting. While data on spatial and temporal variation in the intensity of artificial lighting have been available at a regional and global scale, data on variation in its spectral composition have only been collected for a few locations, preventing variation in associated environmental and human health risks from being mapped. Here, we use imagery obtained using digital cameras by astronauts on the International Space Station to map variation in the spectral composition of lighting across Europe for 2012–2013 and 2014–2020. These show a regionally widespread spectral shift, from that associated principally with high-pressure sodium lighting to that associated with broad white light-emitting diodes and with greater blue emissions. Reexpressing the color maps in terms of spectral indicators of environmental pressures, we find that this trend is widely increasing the risk of harmful effects to ecosystems.
Global seaweed productivity
Authors: Pessarrodona Albert , Assis Jorge , Filbee-Dexter Karen , Burrows Michael T. , Gattuso Jean-Pierre , Duarte Carlos M. , Krause-Jensen Dorte , Moore Pippa J. , Smale Dan A. , Wernberg Thomas
Published: September 2022

The magnitude and distribution of net primary production (NPP) in the coastal ocean remains poorly constrained, particularly for shallow marine vegetation. Here, using a compilation of in situ annual NPP measurements across >400 sites in 72 geographic ecoregions, we provide global predictions of the productivity of seaweed habitats, which form the largest vegetated coastal biome on the planet. We find that seaweed NPP is strongly coupled to climatic variables, peaks at temperate latitudes, and is dominated by forests of large brown seaweeds. Seaweed forests exhibit exceptionally high per-area production rates (a global average of 656 and 1711 gC m
−2
year
−1
in the subtidal and intertidal, respectively), being up to 10 times higher than coastal phytoplankton in temperate and polar seas. Our results show that seaweed NPP is a strong driver of production in the coastal ocean and call for its integration in the oceanic carbon cycle, where it has traditionally been overlooked.
Lost in translation: Molecular basis of reduced flower coloration in a self-pollinated monkeyflower (
Mimulus
) species
Authors: Liang Mei , Foster Caitlin E. , Yuan Yao-Wu
Published: September 2022

Phenotypic evolution is usually attributed to changes in protein function or gene transcription. In principle, mutations that affect protein abundance through enhancing or attenuating protein translation also could be an important source for phenotypic evolution. However, these types of mutations remain largely unexplored in the studies of phenotypic variation in nature. Through fine-scale genetic mapping and functional interrogation, we identify a single nucleotide substitution in an anthocyanin-activating
R2R3-MYB
gene causing flower color variation between a pair of closely related monkeyflower (
Mimulus
) species, the hummingbird-pollinated
Mimulus cardinalis
, and self-pollinated
Mimulus parishii
. This causal mutation is located in the 5′ untranslated region and generates an upstream ATG start codon, leading to attenuated protein translation and reduced flower coloration in the self-pollinated species. Together, our results provide empirical support for the role of mutations affecting protein translation, as opposed to protein function or transcript level, in natural phenotypic variation.
The lunar nodal cycle controls mangrove canopy cover on the Australian continent
Authors: Saintilan Neil , Lymburner Leo , Wen Li , Haigh Ivan D. , Ai Emma , Kelleway Jeffrey J. , Rogers Kerrylee , Pham Tien Dat , Lucas Richard
Published: September 2022

Long-phase (interannual) tidal cycles have been shown to influence coastal flooding and sedimentation, but their role in shaping the extent and condition of tidal wetlands has received little attention. Here, we show that the 18.61-year lunar nodal cycle, popularly termed the “lunar wobble,” is a dominant control over the expansion and contraction of mangrove canopy cover over much of the Australian continent. Furthermore, the contrasting phasing of the 18.61-year lunar nodal cycle between diurnal and semidiurnal tidal settings has mediated the severity of drought impacts in northern bioregions. Long-phase tidal cycles regulate maximum tide heights, are an important control over mangrove canopy cover, and may influence mangrove ecosystem services including forest productivity and carbon sequestration at regional scales.
Uncovering the molecular mechanism for dual effect of ATP on phase separation in FUS solution
Authors: Ren Chun-Lai , Shan Yue , Zhang Pengfei , Ding Hong-Ming , Ma Yu-Qiang
Published: September 2022

Recent studies reported that adenosine triphosphate (ATP) could inhibit and enhance the phase separation in prion-like proteins. The molecular mechanism underlying such a puzzling phenomenon remains elusive. Here, taking the fused in sarcoma (FUS) solution as an example, we comprehensively reveal the underlying mechanism by which ATP regulates phase separation by combining the semiempirical quantum mechanical method, mean-field theory, and molecular simulation. At the microscopic level, ATP acts as a bivalent or trivalent binder; at the macroscopic level, the reentrant phase separation occurs in dilute FUS solutions, resulting from the ATP concentration–dependent binding ability under different conditions. The ATP concentration for dissolving the protein condensates is about 10 mM, agreeing with experimental results. Furthermore, from a dynamic point of view, the effect of ATP on phase separation is also nonmonotonic. This work provides a clear physical description of the microscopic interaction and macroscopic phase diagram of the ATP-modulated phase separation.
Inhibition of Chk2 promotes neuroprotection, axon regeneration, and functional recovery after CNS injury
Authors: Taylor Matthew J. , Thompson Adam M. , Alhajlah Sharif , Tuxworth Richard I. , Ahmed Zubair
Published: September 2022

DNA double-strand breaks occur in many acute and long-term neurological conditions, including neurodegeneration, neurotrauma, and stroke. Nonrepaired breaks chronically activate the DNA damage response in neurons, leading to neural dysfunction and apoptosis. Here, we show that targeting of the central ATM-Chk2 pathway regulating the response to double-strand breaks slows neural decline in
Drosophila
models of chronic neurodegeneration. Inhibitors of ATM-Chk2, but not the parallel ATR-Chk1 pathway, also promote marked, functional recovery after acute central nervous system injury in rats, suggesting that inhibiting nonhomologous end-joining rather than homologous recombination is crucial for neuroprotection. We demonstrate that the Chk2 inhibitor, prexasertib, which has been evaluated in phase 2 clinical trials for cancer, has potent neuroprotective effects and represents a new treatment option to promote functional recovery after spinal cord or optic nerve injury.
Nanofloating gate modulated synaptic organic light-emitting transistors for reconfigurable displays
Authors: Chen Yusheng , Wang Hanlin , Luo Feng , Montes-García Verónica , Liu Zhaoyang , Samorì Paolo
Published: September 2022

The use of postsynaptic current to drive long-lasting luminescence holds a disruptive potential for harnessing the next-generation of smart displays. Multiresponsive long afterglow emission can be achieved by integrating light-emitting polymers in electric spiked transistors trigged by distinct presynaptic signals inputs. Here, we report a highly effective electric spiked long afterglow organic light-emitting transistor (LAOLET), whose operation relies on a nanofloating gate architecture. Long afterglow emission with reconfigurable brightness and retention time is observed upon applying specific positive gate voltage spiked. Conversely, when negative gate voltage stimulus is applied, these LAOLETs function as click-on display. Interestingly, upon endowing the device with force sensing capabilities, it can operate as a long afterglow pressure sensor that emits long-lasting green light subsequently to a controlled extrusion action.
Structural basis for FLCN RagC GAP activation in MiT-TFE substrate-selective mTORC1 regulation
Authors: Jansen Rachel M. , Peruzzo Roberta , Fromm Simon A. , Yokom Adam L. , Zoncu Roberto , Hurley James H.
Published: September 2022

The mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) regulates cell growth and catabolism in response to nutrients through phosphorylation of key substrates. The tumor suppressor folliculin (FLCN) is a RagC/D guanosine triphosphatase (GTPase)–activating protein (GAP) that regulates mTORC1 phosphorylation of MiT-TFE transcription factors, controlling lysosome biogenesis and autophagy. We determined the cryo–electron microscopy structure of the active FLCN complex (AFC) containing FLCN, FNIP2, the N-terminal tail of SLC38A9, the RagA
GDP
:RagC
GDP.BeFx-
GTPase dimer, and the Ragulator scaffold. Relative to the inactive lysosomal FLCN complex structure, FLCN reorients by 90°, breaks contact with RagA, and makes previously unseen contacts with RagC that position its Arg
164
finger for catalysis. Disruption of the AFC-specific interfaces of FLCN and FNIP2 with RagC eliminated GAP activity and led to nuclear retention of TFE3, with no effect on mTORC1 substrates S6K or 4E-BP1. The structure provides a basis for regulation of an mTORC1 substrate-specific pathway and a roadmap to discover MiT-TFE family selective mTORC1 antagonists.
Floral color is not as simple as it once seemed
Authors: Berardi Andrea E.
Published: September 2022

A false start mutation produces reduced protein and flower color, highlighting the role of mutations affecting protein translation in phenotypic evolution and variation.
Unraveling a mystery: Why human cells require cholesterol
Authors: Yeagle Philip L.
Published: September 2022

Understanding how cholesterol binds to mammalian cells offers critical insights into the waxy substance’s role in protein modulation and cell function.
A shift in lung macrophage composition is associated with COVID-19 severity and recovery
Authors: Chen Steven T. , Park Matthew D. , Del Valle Diane Marie , Buckup Mark , Tabachnikova Alexandra , Thompson Ryan C. , Simons Nicole W. , Mouskas Konstantinos , Lee Brian , Geanon Daniel , D’Souza Darwin , Dawson Travis , Marvin Robert , Nie Kai , Zhao Zhen , LeBerichel Jessica , Chang Christie , Jamal Hajra , Akturk Guray , Chaddha Udit , Mathews Kusum , Acquah Samuel , Brown Stacey-Ann , Reiss Michelle , Harkin Timothy , Feldmann Marc , Powell Charles A. , Hook Jaime L. , Kim-Schulze Seunghee , Rahman Adeeb H. , Brown Brian D. ,   The Mount Sinai COVID-19 Biobank Team, Beckmann Noam D. , Gnjatic Sacha , Kenigsberg Ephraim , Charney Alexander W. , Merad Miriam
Published: September 2022

Although it has been more than 2 years since the start of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, COVID-19 continues to be a worldwide health crisis. Despite the development of preventive vaccines, therapies to treat COVID-19 and other inflammatory diseases remain a major unmet need in medicine. Our study sought to identify drivers of disease severity and mortality to develop tailored immunotherapy strategies to halt disease progression. We assembled the Mount Sinai COVID-19 Biobank, which was composed of almost 600 hospitalized patients followed longitudinally through the peak of the pandemic in 2020. Moderate disease and survival were associated with a stronger antigen presentation and effector T cell signature. In contrast, severe disease and death were associated with an altered antigen presentation signature, increased numbers of inflammatory immature myeloid cells, and extrafollicular activated B cells that have been previously associated with autoantibody formation. In severely ill patients with COVID-19, lung tissue–resident alveolar macrophages not only were drastically depleted but also had an altered antigen presentation signature, which coincided with an influx of inflammatory monocytes and monocyte-derived macrophages. In addition, we found that the size of the alveolar macrophage pool correlated with patient outcome and that alveolar macrophage numbers and functionality were restored to homeostasis in patients who recovered from COVID-19. These data suggest that local and systemic myeloid cell dysregulation are drivers of COVID-19 severity and modulation of alveolar macrophage numbers and activity in the lung may be a viable therapeutic strategy for the treatment of critical inflammatory lung diseases.
Prostaglandin E
2
-Induced Immune Suppression via Cytotoxic T-Lymphocyte Antigen 4 in Paratuberculosis
Authors: Sajiki Yamato , Konnai Satoru , Watari Kei , Okagawa Tomohiro , Tanaka Akina , Kawaji Satoko , Nagata Reiko , Maekawa Naoya , Suzuki Yasuhiko , Kato Yukinari , Murata Shiro , Mori Yasuyuki , Ohashi Kazuhiko
Published: September 2022

Paratuberculosis is a chronic enteritis of ruminants caused by the facultative intracellular pathogen
Mycobacterium avium
subsp.
paratuberculosis
. The Th1 response inhibits the proliferation of
M. avium
subsp.
paratuberculosis
during the early subclinical stage.
Immune Imprinting Drives Human Norovirus Potential for Global Spread
Authors: Lindesmith Lisa C. , Boshier Florencia A. T. , Brewer-Jensen Paul D. , Roy Sunando , Costantini Veronica , Mallory Michael L. , Zweigart Mark , May Samantha R. , Conrad Helen , O’Reilly Kathleen M. , Kelly Daniel , Celma Cristina C. , Beard Stuart , Williams Rachel , Tutill Helena J. , Becker Dreps Sylvia , Bucardo Filemón , Allen David J. , Vinjé Jan , Goldstein Richard A. , Breuer Judith , Baric Ralph S.
Published: September 2022

In our model, preepidemic human norovirus variants harbor genetic diversification that translates into novel antigenic features without compromising viral fitness. Through surveillance, we identified two viruses fitting this profile, forming long branches on a phylogenetic tree.
Uncovering
Cis
-Regulatory Elements Important for A-to-I RNA Editing in Fusarium graminearum
Authors: Feng Chanjing , Cao Xinyu , Du Yanfei , Chen Yitong , Xin Kaiyun , Zou Jingwen , Jin Qiaojun , Xu Jin-Rong , Liu Huiquan
Published: September 2022

A-to-I RNA editing is a new epigenetic phenomenon that is crucial for sexual reproduction in fungi. Deciphering
cis
-regulatory elements of A-to-I RNA editing can help us elucidate the editing mechanism and develop a model that accurately predicts RNA editing.
Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron Outer Membrane Vesicles Modulate Virulence of Shigella flexneri
Authors: Xerri Nicholas L. , Payne Shelley M.
Published: September 2022

Shigella flexneri
is the causative agent of bacillary dysentery in humans.
Shigella
spp. are one of the leading causes of diarrheal morbidity and mortality, especially among children in low- and middle-income countries. The rise of antimicrobial resistance combined with the lack of an effective vaccine for
Shigella
heightens the importance of studies aimed at better understanding previously uncharacterized aspects of
Shigella
pathogenesis.
The Efficacy of Colistin Combined with Amikacin or Levofloxacin against Pseudomonas aeruginosa Biofilm Infection
Authors: Wang Yuhang , Li Chunsun , Wang Jin , Bai Nan , Zhang Huan , Chi Yulong , Cai Yun
Published: September 2022

Infections associated with PA biofilm formation are extremely challenging. When monotherapy fails to achieve optimal efficacy, combination therapy becomes the last option.
L-Form Switching in Escherichia coli as a Common β-Lactam Resistance Mechanism
Authors: Petrovic Fabijan Aleksandra , Martinez-Martin David , Venturini Carola , Mickiewicz Katarzyna , Flores-Rodriguez Neftali , Errington Jeff , Iredell Jonathan
Published: September 2022

Bacterial L-forms require specialized culture techniques and are neither widely reported nor well understood in human infections. To date, most of the studies have been conducted on Gram-positive and stable L-form bacteria, which usually require mutagenesis or long-term passages for their generation.
Evaluation of evidence supporting NICE recommendations to change people's lifestyle in clinical practice: cross sectional survey
Authors: Albarqouni Loai , Ringsten Martin , Montori Victor , Jørgensen Karsten Juhl , Bulbeck Helen , Johansson Minna
Published: September 2022

Objectives

To assess whether recommendations of individually oriented lifestyle interventions (IOLIs) in guidelines from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) were underpinned by evidence of benefit, and whether harms and opportunity costs were considered.

Design

Cross sectional survey.

Setting

UK.

Data sources

NICE guidelines and supporting evidence.

Eligibility criteria

All NICE pathways for IOLI recommendations (ie, non-drug interventions that healthcare professionals administer to adults to achieve a healthier lifestyle and improve health) were searched systematically on 26 August 2020. One author screened all retrieved pathways for candidate guidelines, while a second author verified these judgments. Two authors independently and in duplicate screened all retrieved guidelines and recommendations for eligibility, extracted data, and evaluated the evidence cited and the outcomes considered. Disagreements were noted and resolved by consensus.

Results

Within 57 guidelines, 379 NICE recommendations were found for IOLIs; almost all (n=374; 99%) recommended the lifestyle intervention and five (1%) recommended against the intervention. Of the 379 recommendations, 13 (3%) were supported by moderate or high certainty evidence of a beneficial effect on patient relevant outcomes (n=7; 2%) or surrogate outcomes (n=13; 3%). 19 (5%) interventions considered psychosocial harms, 32 (8%) considered physical harms, and one (<1%) considered the opportunity costs of implementation. No intervention considered the burden placed on individuals by these recommendations.

Conclusion

Few NICE recommendations of lifestyle interventions are supported by reliable evidence. While this finding does not contest the beneficial effects of healthy habits, guidelines recommending clinicians to try to change people’s lifestyle need to be reconsidered given the substantial uncertainty about the effectiveness, harms, and opportunity costs of such interventions.
Validity of the ROX index in predicting invasive mechanical ventilation requirement in pneumonia
Authors: Reyes Luis F , Bastidas Goyes Alirio , Tuta Quintero Eduardo Andrés , Pedreros Karen D , Mantilla Yesid F , Herrera Manuela , Carmona Germán A , Saza Laura D , Bello Laura E , Muñoz Carlos A , Chaves Juan C , Arias Jennifer C , Alcaraz Paula M , Hernández María D , Nonzoque Alejandra P , Trujillo Natalia , Pineda Andrés F , Montaño Gina S
Published: September 2022

Background

The ROX index (Respiratory rate-OXygenation) has been described as a prediction tool to identify the need for invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) in community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) with acute hypoxaemic respiratory failure treated with high-flow nasal cannula in order to avoid delay of a necessary intubation. However, its use in predicting the need for ventilatory support in hospitalised patients with CAP has not been validated.

Methods

This is a retrospective cohort study including subjects with CAP treated in the general ward, emergency service or intensive care unit of a third-level centre in Cundinamarca, Colombia, between January 2001 and February 2020. The ROX index was estimated as the ratio of oxygen saturation/fraction of inspired oxygen to respiratory rate.

Results

A total of 895 patients were included, of whom 93 (10%) required IMV. The ROX index proved to be a good predictor, presenting an area under the curve of receiver operating characteristics (AUROC) of 0.733 (95% CI 0.671 to 0.795, p<0.001) when determined by pulse oximetry and an AUROC of 0.779 (95% CI 0.699 to 0.859, p<0.001) when estimated by arterial blood gas (ABG) parameters, with an intraclass correlation of 0.894. The estimated cut-off point was 14.8; a score less than 14.8 indicates high risk of requiring IMV.

Conclusion

The ROX index is a good predictor of IMV in hospitalised patients with CAP. It presents good performance when calculated through pulse oximetry and can replace the one calculated by ABG.
Legendrian satellites and decomposable cobordisms
Authors: Guadagni Roberta , Sabloff Joshua M. , Yacavone Matthew
Published: September 2022

In this paper, we investigate the interactions between the Legendrian satellite construction and the existence of exact, orientable Lagrangian cobordisms between Legendrian knots. Given Lagrangian cobordisms between two Legendrian knots and between two Legendrian tangles, we construct a Lagrangian cobordism between Legendrian satellites of the knots by the closures of the tangles, with extra twists on both the top and the bottom satellite to compensate for the genus of the cobordism. If the original cobordisms were decomposable, then a decomposable cobordism between satellites exists as well, again with extra twists.
Sharp Morrey–Sobolev inequalities and eigenvalue problems on Riemannian–Finsler manifolds with nonnegative Ricci curvature
Authors: Kristály Alexandru , Mester Ágnes , Mezei Ildikó I.
Published: September 2022

Combining the sharp isoperimetric inequality established by Z. Balogh and A. Kristály [Math. Ann., in press, doi:10.1007/s00208-022-02380-1] with an anisotropic symmetrization argument, we establish sharp Morrey–Sobolev inequalities on [Formula: see text]-dimensional Finsler manifolds having nonnegative [Formula: see text]-Ricci curvature. A byproduct of this method is a Hardy–Sobolev-type inequality in the same geometric setting. As applications, by using variational arguments, we guarantee the existence/multiplicity of solutions for certain eigenvalue problems and elliptic PDEs involving the Finsler–Laplace operator. Our results are also new in the Riemannian setting.
THE ROLE OF FIRM ALLIANCE PORTFOLIO DIVERSITY TO LEVERAGE SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MODEL INNOVATION
Authors: PAULA FÁBIO DE OLIVEIRA , DE MACEDO-SOARES T. DIANA VAN ADUARD
Published: September 2022

The main aim of this paper is to analyse the impact of a firm’s alliance portfolio diversity and its barriers to innovation on the successful implementation of sustainable business model innovation. To achieve this goal, we propose a conceptual model that operationalises the following constructs: sustainable business model innovation, alliance portfolio diversity, and barriers to innovation. Additionally, the proposed model considers the moderating influence of absorptive capacity on the relationship between alliance portfolio diversity and sustainable business model innovation. The test of the model in 899 Chilean firms, using structural equation modelling, makes evident that alliance portfolio diversity has an inverted U-shaped impact on sustainable business model innovation, which is moderated by the firm’s absorptive capacity. Moreover, it indicates that the influence of the firm’s perception of barriers impacts sustainable business model innovation in different ways, depending on the nature of these barriers. Implications for theory and practice are also discussed.
An Economic Approach to Predict Biomass Level of Bangladesh Sundarbans Region Using Fuzzy Inference System
Authors: Pujaru Kanisha , Jana Soovoojeet , Khatua Anupam , Adak Sayani , Kar T. K.
Published: September 2022

Seas, marine, and coastal regions are integral and essential parts of our ecosystem. Many scientific approaches have been taken to ensure the sustainable use of marine resources. Artificial intelligence (AI) plays a vital role in harvesting resources so that the system regenerates itself for the long term. This paper develops a two-input and two-output fuzzy logic-based model to predict the fisheries’ remaining biomass after harvesting and maintaining a high revenue level in the Bangladesh Sundarbans region. Fishing & tourism are taken as input parameters, and revenue & biomass are taken as output parameters. A total of 20 rules (IF-THEN type) have been generated in the fuzzy rule editor of Fuzzy Inference System (FIS), considering all possible combinations between input–output parameters. The data which we obtained from the real ecosystem exactly corresponds to the results that we got from our proposed model. Our fuzzy logic model yields valid predictions of the remaining biomass level without compromising profit, only by controlling the harvesting and tourist entry.
Iron Oxide Nanoparticles (IONPs): Synthesis, Surface Functionalization, and Targeting Drug Delivery Strategies: Mini-Review
Authors: Abdulwahid Farah Shamil , Haider Adawiya J. , Al-Musawi Sharafaldin
Published: September 2022

Iron oxide-based magnetic nanoparticles (IONPs) have received remarkable attention in a wide range of applications because of their unique physicochemical properties’ inheritance to the nanoscale. Among these nanoparticles (NPs), superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs), as powerful noninvasive NPs, are widely used in nanomedicine applications such as targeted drug/ gene delivery, magnetic separation, cancer therapy, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) hyperthermia because of their superparamagnetic activity and remarkable small size. The synthesis of SPIONs and surface modification of these NPs for biological applications is an interesting research topic. These NPs have high magnetic susceptibility, a single magnetic domain, and a controlled magnetic behavior due to the SPION superparamagnetic feature. This review aims to explore the recently developed synthetic routes of SPIONs and show the best parameters to prepare SPIONs using pulsed laser ablation in liquid “PLAL” for biomedical applications. Furthermore, we highlight the properties, coating, and functionalization of SPIONs and their importance for biomedical applications, including targeted drug delivery and cancer therapy.
Driving Maneuver Anomaly Detection Based on Deep Auto-Encoder and Geographical Partitioning
Authors: Liu Miaomiao , Yang Kang , Fu Yanjie , Wu Dapeng , Du Wan
Published: September 2022

This paper presents
GeoDMA
, which processes the GPS data from multiple vehicles to detect anomalous driving maneuvers, such as rapid acceleration, sudden braking, and rapid swerving. First, an unsupervised deep auto-encoder is designed to learn a set of unique features from the normal historical GPS data of all drivers. We consider the temporal dependency of the driving data for individual drivers and the spatial correlation among different drivers. Second, to incorporate the peer dependency of drivers in local regions, we develop a geographical partitioning algorithm to partition a city into several sub-regions to do the driving anomaly detection. Specifically, we extend the vehicle-vehicle dependency to road-road dependency and formulate the geographical partitioning problem into an optimization problem. The objective of the optimization problem is to maximize the dependency of roads within each sub-region and minimize the dependency of roads between any two different sub-regions. Finally, we train a specific driving anomaly detection model for each sub-region and perform in-situ updating of these models by incremental training. We implement
GeoDMA
in Pytorch and evaluate its performance using a large real-world GPS trajectories. The experiment results demonstrate that
GeoDMA
achieves up to 8.5% higher detection accuracy than the baseline methods.
“I’m Just Overwhelmed”: Investigating Physical Therapy Accessibility and Technology Interventions for People with Disabilities and/or Chronic Conditions
Authors: Yamagami Momona , Mack Kelly , Mankoff Jennifer , Steele Katherine M.
Published: September 2022

Many individuals with disabilities and/or chronic conditions (da/cc) experience symptoms that may require intermittent or on-going medical care. However, healthcare is an often-overlooked domain for accessibility work, where access needs associated with temporary and long-term disability must be addressed to increase the utility of physical and digital interactions with healthcare workers and spaces. Our work focuses on a specific domain of healthcare often used by individuals with da/cc: physical therapy (PT). Through a 12-person interview study, we examined how people’s access to PT for their da/cc  is hampered by social (e.g., physically visiting a PT clinic) and physiological (e.g., chronic pain) barriers, and how technology could improve PT access. In-person PT is often inaccessible to our participants due to lack of transportation and insufficient insurance coverage. As such, many of our participants relied on at-home PT to manage their da/cc  symptoms and work towards PT goals. Participants felt that PT barriers, such as having particularly bad symptoms or feeling short on time, could be addressed with well-designed technology that flexibly adapts to the person’s dynamically changing needs while supporting their PT goals. We introduce core design principles (adaptability, movement tracking, community building) and tensions (insurance) to consider when developing technology to support PT access. Rethinking da/cc  access to PT from a lens that includes social and physiological barriers presents opportunities to integrate accessibility and adaptability into PT technology.
Computational Studies on the Electrochemical Performance of Doped and Substituted Ti3C2Tx (T = O,OH) MXene
Authors: Das Mandira , Ghosh Subhradip
Published: September 2022

Using Density functional theory (DFT) in conjunction with a solvation model, we have investigated the phenomenon of electrode-electrolyte interaction at the electrode surface and its consequences on the electrochemical properties like the charge storage and total capacitance of doped and substituted functionalized Ti3C2T
x
(T = O, OH) supercapacitor electrode. We have studied nitrogen-doped, nitrogen substituted, and molybdenum substituted MXenes in acidic electrolyte H2SO4 solution. By considering nitrogen doping at different sites, we found that the greatest capacitance is obtained for doping at functional sites. Our results agree well with the available experiment. We also found that the enhancement in capacitances due to nitrogen doping is due to amplifications in the pseudocapacitance. We propose that the primary mechanism leading to the enhanced value of the capacitances due to nitrogen doping is surface redox activity. The performances of substituted systems, on the other hand, are degraded compared to the pristine ones. This suggests that better storage capacities in Ti3C2T
x
electrode can be obtained by doping only. We provide insights into the reasons behind contrasting behavior in doped and substituted systems and suggest ways to further improve the capacitances in the doped system.
Effects of Temperature, Ti(III) Ion Concentration, and Current Density on Electrodeposition of Ti Films in LiF–LiCl Melt
Authors: Norikawa Yutaro , Unoki Makoto , Yasuda Kouji , Nohira Toshiyuki
Published: September 2022

The effects of temperature, Ti(III) ion concentration, and current density on the electrodeposition of Ti films were investigated in the eutectic LiF–LiCl melt at 823–973 K. The Ti(III) ions were prepared by adding Li2TiF6and Ti metal to the melt. The diffusion coefficients of Ti(III) were 1.4, 1.8, 2.3, and 3.2 × 10−5m2s−1, at 823, 873, 923, and 973 K, respectively. Galvanostatic electrolysis was conducted at 823–973 K. The surface roughness (Sa) of the Ti films decreases with decreasing temperature. Thus, the electrodeposition of Ti films was conducted at the lowest temperature of 823 K with various Li3TiF6concentrations (0.55–7.1 mol%) and cathodic current densities (50–1200 mA cm−2). TheSawas lower at higher Ti(III) ion concentrations and lower current densities. The smoothest Ti films with aSaof 1.23μm and a thickness of 10μm were obtained at a cathodic current density of 50 mA cm−2and Li3TiF6concentration of 7.1 mol%.
Atractylenolide III Attenuates Apoptosis in H9c2 Cells by Inhibiting Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress through the GRP78/PERK/CHOP Signaling Pathway
Authors: Zuo Meng-yu , Tang Tong-juan , Wang Xiang , Gu Jin-fan , Wang Liang , Chen Jian , Yao Juan , Li Xiang-yang , Zhou Peng , Huang Jin-ling
Published: September 2022

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of atractylenolide III (ATL-III) on endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) injury, H9c2 cardiomyocyte apoptosis induced by tunicamycin (TM), and the GRP78/PERK/CHOP signaling pathway. Molecular docking was applied to predict the binding affinity of ATL-III to the key proteins GRP78, PERK, IREα, and ATF6 in ERS. Then, in vitro experiments were used to verify the molecular docking results. ERS injury model of H9c2 cells was established by TM. Cell viability was detected by MTT assay, and apoptosis was detected by Hoechst/PI double staining and flow cytometry. Protein expression levels of GRP78, PERK, eIF2α, ATF4, CHOP, Bax, Bcl-2, and Caspase-3 were detected by Western blot. And mRNA levels of GRP78, CHOP, PERK, eIF2α, and ATF4 were detected by RT-qPCR. Moreover, the mechanism was further studied by using GRP78 inhibitor (4-phenylbutyric acid, 4-PBA), and PERK inhibitor (GSK2656157). The results showed that ATL-III had a good binding affinity with GRP78, and the best binding affinity was with PERK. ATL-III increased the viability of H9c2 cells, decreased the apoptosis rate, downregulated Bax and Caspase-3, and increased Bcl-2 compared with the model group. Moreover, ATL-III downregulated the protein and mRNA levels of GRP78, CHOP, PERK, eIF2α, and ATF4, consistent with the inhibition of 4-PBA. ATL-III also decreased the expression levels of PERK, eIF2α, ATF4, CHOP, Bax, and Caspase-3, while increasing the expression of Bcl-2, which is consistent with GSK2656157. Taken together, ATL-III could inhibit TM-induced ERS injury and H9c2 cardiomyocyte apoptosis by regulating the GRP78/PERK/CHOP signaling pathway and has myocardial protection.
An Application of Fuzzy Multiple Linear Regression in Biological Paradigm
Authors: Mustafa Saima , Ghaffar Shumaila , Bibi Murrium , Khan Muhammad Ghaffar , Praveen Qaisara , Garg Harish , Saminou Mahamane
Published: September 2022

The regression model is generally utilized in several fields of study because of its applications. Regression is an extremely incredible approach; it builds up a connection between dependent and independent variables. We have addressed a powerful computational model by utilizing dengue information joined with fuzzy multiple linear regression. Information is accumulated on dengue fever through the survey. This paper is centered on the comparison of the crisp method with fuzzy multiple linear regression, and then, the utilization of a fuzzy multiple regression method is explained after the comparison. We have used multiple regression and then converted the said technique into three fuzzy cases. The effectiveness of the fuzzy multiple regression model is measured by numerical computation and comparison of both techniques. 2020 Mathematics Subject Classification. Primary 30C45; 30C50; 30C80; Secondary 11B65, 47B38.
Convergence Study of Variational Space‐Time Coupled Least‐Squares Frameworks in Simulation of Wave Propagation in Viscoelastic Medium
Authors: Saffarian M. A. , Ahmadi A. R. , Bagheripour M. H.
Published: September 2022

There are many novel applications of space‐time decoupled least squares and Galerkin formulations that simulate wave propagation through different types of media. Numerical simulation of stress wave propagation through viscoelastic medium is commonly carried out using the space‐time decoupled Galerkin weak form in site response problem, etc. In a recent investigation into accuracy of this formulation in simulating elastic wave propagation, it was shown that the diffusive and dispersive errors are greatly reduced when space‐time coupled least squares formulation is used instead in variational form. This paper investigates convergence characteristics of both formulations. To this end, two test cases, which are site response and impact models for viscoelastic medium, are employed, one dominated by dispersive and the other by diffusive numerical error. Convergence studies reveal that, compared to the commonly used space‐time decoupled Galerkin and the coupled least squares formulation has much lower numerical errors, higher rates of convergence, and ability to take far larger time increments in the evolution process. In solving such models, coefficient matrices would require updating after each time step, a process that can be very costly. However large time steps allowed by cLs are expected to be a significant feature in reducing the overall computational cost.
Prognostic Factors and Nomograms for Overall and Cancer-Specific Survival of Patients with Uveal Melanoma without Metastases: A SEER Analysis of 4119 Cases
Authors: Liu Xin , Liu Chang , Shang Yue , Yang Lin , Tan Fengling , Lv Yong
Published: September 2022

Purpose. To determine prognostic factors for patients with uveal melanoma without metastases and to construct nomograms to predict their 3- and 5-year overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS). Methods. We included 4119 patients who were registered from 2004 to 2015 in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database. The median follow-up time was 5.8 years. Independent risk factors affecting OS and CSS were identified with univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses and used to construct nomograms. Internal and external validation were carried out by using the bootstrap method to calculate the concordance indices (C-indices) and plot the calibration curves. Results. Age, primary site, histological type, T-stage, and treatment were independent risk factors for OS and CSS; marital status and sequence number were factors only for OS. The C-indices for internal validation of OS and CSS were 0.713 (95% CI, 0.697–0.729) and 0.708 (95% CI, 0.688–0.728), respectively, and for external validation they were 0.729 (95% CI, 0.705–0.753) and 0.731 (95% CI, 0.700–0.762), respectively. The calibration curves also revealed good agreement between the predicted and actual survival rates. Conclusions. We constructed nomograms to predict the 3- and 5-year OS and CSS of patients with uveal melanoma without metastases. Our nomograms may improve prognostication and assist with the development of individualized treatment strategies.
CMaf-Inducing Protein Promotes LUAD Proliferation and Metastasis by Activating the MAPK/ERK Pathway
Authors: Yu Xiao-Yan , Wang Ming , Qian Juan-Juan
Published: September 2022

Objective. Previous studies have shown that cMaf-inducing protein (CMIP) promotes tumorigenesis and progression, however, the role of CMIP in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and its molecular mechanism remain unclear. Methods. In this study, the Human Protein Atlas and Kaplan–Meier Plotter database were used to analyze the expression and prognostic value of CMIP in LUAD. Then, the expression levels of CMIP in LUAD tissues and cells were detected by qRT-PCR and western blot. The lentiviral vector was used to establish a stable transfected cell line, and the transfection efficiency was detected by qRT-PCR. MTT assay, colony formation assay, transwell assay, and wound healing assay were used to evaluate the function of CMIP in LUAD. In addition, the effect of CMIP on the MAPK/ERK pathway in LUAD cells was analyzed by western blot. Results. The expression level of CMIP was significantly increased in LUAD cell and tissue samples, and the high expression of CMIP was associated with overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) in LUAD patients. In vitro experiments showed that CMIP overexpression significantly promoted the proliferation, migration, and invasion of A549 cells. CMIP knockout significantly inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of H1299 cells. In addition, it was observed that the expression levels of the MAPK/ERK pathway-related proteins were significantly increased in CMIP-overexpressed A549 cells, and promoted cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, while U0126 could significantly reverse the activation of the MAPK/ERK pathway by CMIP overexpression, and inhibit the proliferation, migration, and invasion of A549 cells. Conclusion. Our study shows that CMIP, as an oncogene, is associated with poor patient prognosis, and may promote the proliferation and metastasis of LUAD by activating the MAPK/ERK pathway. Therefore, CMIP may be a new potential therapeutic target for LUAD.
[Retracted] Prediction and Analysis of Corporate Financial Risk Assessment Using Logistic Regression Algorithm in Multiple Uncertainty Environment
Authors: Li Xinyue , Yan Saisai , Lu Jiajia , Ding Yanqiu
Published: September 2022

Currently, the level of economic globalisation is expanding, which gives organizations more room to grow while also subjecting them to an increasing amount of pressure from the market. Companies are forced to deal with an increasing number of unclear aspects due to the unstable internal and external environments, which also increases the risks they confront. A management system for corporate financial risk is according to studies on early warning systems for financial risks. Its goals are to raise the standard of corporate financial management and boost economic advantages, identify concerns and potential hazards in the corporate financial management process, stop corporate financial crises in their tracks, and lessen the losses brought on by such crises. The financial risk management of the organization is predicted and examined in this research using the logistic regression model. The use of a logistic regression model allows for the simultaneous analysis of various risk factors, such as discrete and continuous variables, as well as the analysis of external variables’ interactions and confounding. This method is suited for widespread usage in practice because it has shown exceptional outcomes in study that are 16.24% better than those of the conventional method.
A Live Cell Imaging Microfluidic Model for Studying Extravasation of Bloodborne Bacterial Pathogens
Authors: Bergevin Michele d. , Boczula Anna E. , Caruso Laura-lee , Persson Henrik , Simmons Craig A. , Moriarty Tara J.
Published: September 2022

Bacteria that migrate (extravasate) out of the bloodstream during vascular dissemination can cause secondary infections in many tissues and organs, including the brain, heart, liver, joints, and bone with clinically serious and sometimes fatal outcomes. The mechanisms by which bacteria extravasate through endothelial barriers in the face of blood flow-induced shear stress are poorly understood, in part because individual bacteria are rarely observed traversing endothelia in vivo, and in vitro model systems inadequately mimic the vascular environment. To enable the study of bacterial extravasation mechanisms, we developed a transmembrane microfluidics device mimicking human blood vessels. Fast, quantitative, three-dimensional live cell imaging in this system permitted single-cell resolution measurement of the Lyme disease bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi transmigrating through monolayers of primary human endothelial cells under physiological shear stress. This cost-effective, flexible method was 10,000 times more sensitive than conventional plate reader-based methods for measuring transendothelial migration. Validation studies confirmed that B. burgdorferi transmigrate actively and strikingly do so at similar rates under static and physiological flow conditions. This method has significant potential for future studies of B. burgdorferi extravasation mechanisms, as well as the transendothelial migration mechanisms of other disseminating bloodborne pathogens.