bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identifying the Posture of Young Adults in Walking Videos by Using a Fusion Artificial Intelligent Method
Authors: Lee Posen , Chen Tai-Been , Liu Chin-Hsuan , Wang Chi-Yuan , Huang Guan-Hua , Lu Nan-Han
Published: May 2022

Many neurological and musculoskeletal disorders are associated with problems related to postural movement. Noninvasive tracking devices are used to record, analyze, measure, and detect the postural control of the body, which may indicate health problems in real time. A total of 35 young adults without any health problems were recruited for this study to participate in a walking experiment. An iso-block postural identity method was used to quantitatively analyze posture control and walking behavior. The participants who exhibited straightforward walking and skewed walking were defined as the control and experimental groups, respectively. Fusion deep learning was applied to generate dynamic joint node plots by using OpenPose-based methods, and skewness was qualitatively analyzed using convolutional neural networks. The maximum specificity and sensitivity achieved using a combination of ResNet101 and the naïve Bayes classifier were 0.84 and 0.87, respectively. The proposed approach successfully combines cell phone camera recordings, cloud storage, and fusion deep learning for posture estimation and classification.
The Role of Systemic Physiology in Individual Hemodynamic Responses Measured on the Head Due to Long-Term Stimulation Involving Colored Light Exposure and a Cognitive Task: An SPA-fNIRS Study
Authors: Scholkmann Felix , Zohdi Hamoon , Wolf Ursula
Published: May 2022

In our previous investigations using systemic physiology augmented functional near-infrared spectroscopy (SPA-fNIRS) neuroimaging, we found larger variability between subjects in changes of cerebral hemodynamics and oxygenation induced by an intricate experimental paradigm involving colored light exposure and a cognitive task. We aimed to investigate the role the activity of the systemic physiology has on individual variations in the fNIRS data. Thirty-two healthy subjects (17 female, 15 male and age: 25.5 ± 4.3 years) were exposed to blue and red light for 9 min (colored light exposure, CLE) while performing a verbal fluency task (VFT). We found that (i), at the group level, the visual cortex showed a stronger deoxyhemoglobin concentration response during blue light exposure than during red light exposure, and (ii) this relationship was influenced by individually different baseline blood pressure values. Furthermore, we found other correlations between changes in fNIRS signals and changes in systemic physiology. Our study demonstrates the usefulness and necessity of the SPA-fNIRS approach to gain insights into the individual variability of hemodynamic responses measured with fNIRS, especially in the case of an intricate experimental paradigm (i.e., CLE-VFT) as used in our study.
Accuracy Analysis of Three-Dimensional Modeling of a Multi-Level UAV without Control Points
Authors: Wang Dejiang , Shu Huazhen
Published: May 2022

Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) oblique photography technology has been applied more and more widely for the 3D reconstruction of real-scene models due to its high efficiency and low cost. However, there are many kinds of UAVs with different positioning methods, camera models, and resolutions. To evaluate the performance levels of different types of UAVs in terms of their application to 3D reconstruction, this study took a primary school as the research area and obtained image information through oblique photography of four UAVs of different levels at different flight altitudes. We then conducted a comparative analysis of the accuracy of their 3D reconstruction models. The results show that the 3D reconstruction model of M300RTK has the highest dimensional accuracy, with an error of about 1.1–1.4 m per kilometer, followed by M600Pro (1.5–3.6 m), Inspire2 (1.8–4.2 m), and Phantom4Pro (2.4–5.6 m), but the accuracy of the 3D reconstruction model was found to have no relationship with the flight altitude. At the same time, the resolution of the 3D reconstruction model improved as the flight altitude decreased and the image resolution of the PTZ camera increased. The 3D reconstruction model resolution of the M300RTK + P1 camera was the highest. For every 10 m decrease in flight altitude, the clarity of the 3D reconstruction model improved by 16.81%. The UAV flight time decreased as the UAV flying altitude increased, and the time required for 3D reconstruction of the model increased obviously as the number and resolution of photos increased.
Influence of Equipment Operation Parameters on the Characteristics of a Track Produced with Construction 3D Printing
Authors: Elistratkin Mikhail , Alfimova Nataliya , Podgornyi Daniil , Olisov Andrey , Promakhov Vladimir , Kozhukhova Natalia
Published: May 2022

Additive technologies are widely used in various industries. However, nowadays, the large-scale implementation of these technologies in the construction industry is difficult, due to a lot of open practical and scientific questions in terms of both building mixtures and 3D printing equipment. When performing studies focused on the development of cost-effective mixtures based on readily available raw materials for building extrusion 3D printing, it was found that the final result was determined by the rheology of the building mixture, the speed of the screw, and other factors. The article studied the combined effect on the extrusion of the building mixture and the parameters of the printed track of such factors as the thickness of the layer, the linear printhead traversed velocity of the forming device, and the speed of rotation of the screw. We aimed to establish relationships between the above factors, providing an increase in the stability of the printing process and the quality of the resulting structure. To carry out the research, an experimental program and original methods were developed, involving printing in different regimes using a laboratory construction 3D printer. Based on the regression analysis of the data obtained, it was found that the process of 3D printing by extrusion methods cannot be described by a linear function. It was found that a change in the linear speed of the nozzle movement can increase the yield of the mixture, and also lead to track stretching and the degradation of some parameters. The boundary value, in this case, is the layer thickness of 0.77–0.8 of the nozzle width. The response of the system to changes in the linear printhead traversed velocity and the frequency of rotation of the screw occurs in different ways. A change in the linear printhead traversed velocity at the optimal height of the layer has a slight effect on its width. Reducing the speed of rotation of the screw leads to a decrease in the overall dynamics of the mixture flow and an increase in its viscosity due to its thixotropic nature. When the previous speed of rotation of the mixture is restored, the dynamics of the flow are restored with a noticeable delay. In general, this is recommended to ensure the highest dynamics of the printing process. For the laboratory construction 3D printer and the building mixture used in the article, the regime with the following parameters was recommended: a linear printhead traversed velocity of 900 mm/min; an extruder frequency of 25 rpm; and a relative layer thickness of 0.8 (of the nozzle width). This regime provides the optimal ratio of performance/quality and the stability of track parameters.
Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Laser Ablation Using a Diffusing Applicator for Locally Advanced Pancreatic Cancer Treatment
Authors: Lim Seonghee , Truong Van Gia , Choi Jongman , Jeong Hye Jung , Oh Sun-Ju , Park Jin-Seok , Kang Hyun Wook
Published: May 2022

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided cylindrical interstitial laser ablation (CILA) procedures can be used to treat unresectable pancreatic cancer (PC). The aim of this study was to investigate the acute responses of pancreatic tissue after EUS-guided CILA in vivo in porcine models. Eight pigs were tested to compare the effects of different energy levels on pancreatic tissue ablation. A 1064 nm laser system was used to deliver 5 W through a diffusing applicator. The EUS-guided CILA was performed under four different energies: 200, 400, 600, and 800 J. Three days after the experiments, histological analysis was performed. The CILA consistently generated circular coagulated necrosis (CN) in the cross-sectioned pancreatic tissue. The ablation diameter was linearly dependent on the total energy delivery. The area of the CN initially increased with total energy delivery but became saturated at 600 J. The width of the degenerative parenchyma (DP) in the native tissue beyond the CN region increased with the total energy up to 600 J, and then decreased afterward. EUS-guided CILA can be a feasible approach for treating PC. Further animal studies will investigate the chronic responses of the pancreatic tissue to examine the efficacy and safety of the proposed method for clinical translation.
Clinical Considerations for Immunoparesis in Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Chahin Michael , Branham Zachery , Fox Ashley , Leurinda Christian , Keruakous Amany R.
Published: May 2022

Multiple myeloma is a relatively common clonal plasma cell disorder, comprising 17% of hematologic malignancies. One of the hallmark features of this disease is immunoparesis, which is characterized by the suppression of immunoglobulin polyclonality. Though not entirely elucidated, the mechanism behind this process can be attributed to the changes in the tumor microenvironment. All treating clinicians must consider potential complications related to immunoparesis in the management of multiple myeloma. Though not explicitly described in large data series, the increased risk of infection in multiple myeloma is likely, at least in part, due to immunoglobulin suppression. Additionally, the presence of immunoparesis serves as a prognostic factor, conveying poorer survival and a higher risk of relapse. Even in the era of novel agents, these findings are preserved, and immunoglobulin recovery also serves as a sign of improved outcome following autologous HSCT. Though not within the diagnostic criteria for multiple myeloma, the presence and degree of immunoparesis should be at diagnosis for prognostication, and immunoglobulin recovery should be tracked following myeloablative therapy and autologous HSCT.
Affinity Recognition Based Gravimetric Nanosensor for Equilin Detection
Authors: Aylaz Gülgün , Andaç Müge
Published: May 2022

The estrogenic hormones that are widely used in postmenopausal hormone supplements for women contaminate natural water resources. Equilin (Equ) is one of the estrogenic hormones that have a maximum contaminant level of 0.35 µg/L in the chemical pollutants list. In this study, estrogenic hormones were precisely detected in a short time by affinity-recognition-based interactions in Quartz Crystal Microbalance (QCM) sensors. The QCM sensors were modified with 11-mercaptoundecanoic acid forming a self-assembled monolayer and with amino acids, namely tyrosine, tryptophan and phenylalanine. The affinity interactions between Equ and amino acids were studied using docking tools and confirmed by QCM experiments. The LODs of Equ were obtained as 4.59, 5.05 and 6.30 ng/L for tyrosine-, tryptophan- and phenylalanine-modified QCM nanosensors, respectively, with linear dynamic detection in the range of 25–500 nM. In terms of the LOD, selectivity and sensitivity calculations, the tyrosine-modified QCM nanosensor was found to have the highest performance for Equ detection compared to the tryptophan- and phenylalanine-modified ones.
External Validation of the Modified 4C Deterioration Model and 4C Mortality Score for COVID-19 Patients in a Swiss Tertiary Hospital
Authors: Wirth Adriana , Goetschi Andrea , Held Ulrike , Sendoel Ataman , Stuessi-Helbling Melina , Huber Lars Christian
Published: May 2022

Prognostic models to predict the deterioration and mortality risk in COVID-19 patients are utterly needed to assist in informed decision making. Most of these models, however, are at high risk of bias, model overfitting, and unclear reporting. Here, we aimed to externally validate the modified (urea was omitted) 4C Deterioration Model and 4C Mortality Score in a cohort of Swiss COVID-19 patients and, second, to evaluate whether the inclusion of the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) improves the predictive performance of the models. We conducted a retrospective single-centre study with adult patients hospitalized with COVID-19. Both prediction models were updated by including the NLR. Model performance was assessed via the models’ discriminatory performance (area under the curve, AUC), calibration (intercept and slope), and their performance overall (Brier score). For the validation of the 4C Deterioration Model and Mortality Score, 546 and 527 patients were included, respectively. In total, 133 (24.4%) patients met the definition of in-hospital deterioration. Discrimination of the 4C Deterioration Model was AUC = 0.78 (95% CI 0.73–0.82). A total of 55 (10.44%) patients died in hospital. Discrimination of the 4C Mortality Score was AUC = 0.85 (95% CI 0.79–0.89). There was no evidence for an incremental value of the NLR. Our data confirm the role of the modified 4C Deterioration Model and Mortality Score as reliable prediction tools for the risk of deterioration and mortality. There was no evidence that the inclusion of NLR improved model performance.
Bio-Imaging-Based Machine Learning Algorithm for Breast Cancer Detection
Authors: Safdar Sadia , Rizwan Muhammad , Gadekallu Thippa Reddy , Javed Abdul Rehman , Rahmani Mohammad Khalid Imam , Jawad Khurram , Bhatia Surbhi
Published: May 2022

Breast cancer is one of the most widespread diseases in women worldwide. It leads to the second-largest mortality rate in women, especially in European countries. It occurs when malignant lumps that are cancerous start to grow in the breast cells. Accurate and early diagnosis can help in increasing survival rates against this disease. A computer-aided detection (CAD) system is necessary for radiologists to differentiate between normal and abnormal cell growth. This research consists of two parts; the first part involves a brief overview of the different image modalities, using a wide range of research databases to source information such as ultrasound, histography, and mammography to access various publications. The second part evaluates different machine learning techniques used to estimate breast cancer recurrence rates. The first step is to perform preprocessing, including eliminating missing values, data noise, and transformation. The dataset is divided as follows: 60% of the dataset is used for training, and the rest, 40%, is used for testing. We focus on minimizing type one false-positive rate (FPR) and type two false-negative rate (FNR) errors to improve accuracy and sensitivity. Our proposed model uses machine learning techniques such as support vector machine (SVM), logistic regression (LR), and K-nearest neighbor (KNN) to achieve better accuracy in breast cancer classification. Furthermore, we attain the highest accuracy of 97.7% with 0.01 FPR, 0.03 FNR, and an area under the ROC curve (AUC) score of 0.99. The results show that our proposed model successfully classifies breast tumors while overcoming previous research limitations. Finally, we summarize the paper with the future trends and challenges of the classification and segmentation in breast cancer detection.
Fault Tolerance Analysis of Five-Level Neutral-Point-Clamped Inverters under Clamping Diode Open-Circuit Failure
Authors: Ahmadi Sajjad , Poure Philippe , Saadate Shahrokh , Khaburi Davood Arab
Published: May 2022

Multilevel inverters are increasingly used in industrial applications in which service continuity is crucial. This paper presents an original approach to ensure the fault-tolerant operation of neutral-point-clamped (NPC) inverters in the case of an open-circuit fault event in a clamping diode, which is rarely investigated in the conducted research work. The proposed fault-tolerant strategy meets the following criteria: restoring rated output voltage and current during post-fault operation, realizing fault-tolerant operation without additional components, maintaining rated total harmonic distortion (THD) during fault-tolerant operation, and fast transition between faulty operation and remedial operation. In the proposed approach, prior to applying the appropriate remedial action, identification of the defective clamping diode is required. In this respect, a very fast and simple logic-based fault diagnosis is presented whose implementation does not need any additional components and external circuit. Moreover, it does not require any component modeling and complicated calculations. The proposed strategy is validated by simulation and experimentation.
MaxEnt Modelling and Impact of Climate Change on Habitat Suitability Variations of Economically Important Chilgoza Pine (Pinus gerardiana Wall.) in South Asia
Authors: Khan Arshad Mahmood , Li Qingting , Saqib Zafeer , Khan Nasrullah , Habib Tariq , Khalid Nadia , Majeed Muhammad , Tariq Aqil
Published: May 2022

Chilgoza pine is an economically and ecologically important evergreen coniferous tree species of the dry and rocky temperate zone, and a native of south Asia. This species is rated as near threatened (NT) by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). This study hypothesized that climatic, soil and topographic variations strongly influence the distribution pattern and potential habitat suitability prediction of Chilgoza pine. Accordingly, this study was aimed to document the potential habitat suitability variations of Chilgoza pine under varying environmental scenarios by using 37 different environmental variables. The maximum entropy (MaxEnt) algorithm in MaxEnt software was used to forecast the potential habitat suitability under current and future (i.e., 2050s and 2070s) climate change scenarios (i.e., Shared Socio-economic Pathways (SSPs): 245 and 585). A total of 238 species occurrence records were collected from Afghanistan, Pakistan and India, and employed to build the predictive distribution model. The results showed that normalized difference vegetation index, mean temperature of coldest quarter, isothermality, precipitation of driest month and volumetric fraction of the coarse soil fragments (>2 mm) were the leading predictors of species presence prediction. High accuracy values (>0.9) of predicted distribution models were recorded, and remarkable shrinkage of potentially suitable habitat of Chilgoza pine was followed by Afghanistan, India and China. The estimated extent of occurrence (EOO) of the species was about 84,938 km2, and the area of occupancy (AOO) was about 888 km2, with 54 major sub-populations. This study concluded that, as the total predicted suitable habitat under current climate scenario (138,782 km2) is reasonably higher than the existing EOO, this might represent a case of continuous range contraction. Hence, the outcomes of this research can be used to build the future conservation and management plans accordingly for this economically valuable species in the region.
Trial Protocol for Evaluating Platforms for Growing Microgreens in Hydroponic Conditions
Authors: Moraru Paula Ioana , Rusu Teodor , Mintas Olimpia Smaranda
Published: May 2022

The hydroponic production of microgreens has potential to develop, at both an industrial, and a family level, due to the improved production platforms. The literature review found numerous studies which recommend procedures, parameters and best intervals for the development of microgreens. This paper aims to develop, based on the review of the literature, a set of procedures and parameters, included in a test protocol, for hydroponically cultivated microgreens. Procedures and parameters proposed to be included in the trial protocol for evaluating platforms for growing microgreens in hydroponic conditions are: (1) different determinations: in controlled settings (setting the optimal ranges) and in operational environments settings (weather conditions in the area/testing period); (2) procedures and parameters related to microgreen growth (obtaining the microgreens seedling, determining microgreen germination, measurements on the morphology of plants, microgreens harvesting); (3) microgreens production and quality (fresh biomass yield, dry matter content, water use efficiency, bioactive compound analysis, statistical analysis). Procedures and parameters proposed in the protocol will provide us with the evaluation information of the hydroponic platforms to ensure: number of growing days to reach desired size; yield per area, crop health, and secondary metabolite accumulation.
Novel Role of AaMYBC1 in Regulating Actinidia arguta Vine Architecture by Elongating Internode Based on Multi-Omics Analysis of Transgenic Tobacco
Authors: Li Yukuo , Huang Hailei , Abid Muhammad , Gu Hong , Cheng Zhongping , Fang Jinbao , Qi Xiujuan
Published: May 2022

The internode length affects the status of fruiting branches and shapes the vine architecture. MYB TFs (transcription factors) have been widely studied and reported to control many biological processes including secondary metabolism, abiotic stresses, growth and development, etc. However, the roles of MYB TFs in regulating internode length remain poorly understood. Here, we demonstrated that a secondary metabolism-related R2R3-MYB TF AaMYBC1 from Actinidia arguta was involved in the regulation of internode length by combined analysis of transcriptome and metabolome of transgenic tobacco plants. The metabolome analysis of OE (over-expressed tobacco) and WT (wild-typed tobacco) showed that there were a total of 1000 metabolites, 176 of which had significant differences. A key metabolite pme1651 annotated as indole 3-acetic acid belonged to phytohormone that was involved in internode length regulation. The RNA-seq analysis presented 446 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between OE and WT, 14 of which were common DEGs in KEGG and GO enrichment. Through the combined analysis of metabolome and transcriptome in transgenic and wild-type tobacco, three key genes including two SAUR and a GH3 gene were possibly involved in internode elongation. Finally, a regulatory module was deduced to show the role of AaMYBC1 in internode elongation. Our results proposed a molecular mechanism of AaMYBC1 regulating internode length by mediated auxin signaling, implying the potential role in regulating the vine architecture.
Introduction of a Protocol for Structured Follow-Up and Texting of Inadequate and Borderline-Positive Newborn Metabolic Screening Results
Authors: Heather Natasha , Morgan Lisa , Knoll Detlef , Shore Keith , de Hora Mark , Webster Dianne
Published: May 2022

A national protocol for structured follow-up and texting of repeat newborn bloodspot screening (NBS) sample requests was introduced. Repeat samples are needed where the initial sample is inadequate or the result borderline-positive. This protocol aimed to improve the timeliness and completeness of receipt of repeat NBS samples. Under the structured protocol, all repeat sample requests were phoned or texted to the lead maternity carer (LMC), in addition to the standard written report issued. Weekly text reminders were sent until 4 weeks or the sample was received. National data were monitored following implementation of the protocol. The proportion of repeat samples received within 10 days of request improved after the introduction of the protocol, from 35.0% in 2013 to 81.4% in 2020 (p < 0.001). The proportion of requests lost to follow-up decreased, from 4.1% in 2013 to 1.3% in 2020 (p < 0.001). A structured NBS follow-up protocol that included SMS text messaging led to an earlier and more complete receipt of repeat samples. This is likely due to practitioners receiving the request more quickly, as well as the laboratory adopting a consistent approach to repeated reminders. SMS text messages are a useful adjunctive method for screening programmes to communicate with health care providers.
Cognitive Performance and Health-Related Quality of Life in Patients with Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Lopez-Soley Elisabet , Meca-Lallana Jose E. , Llufriu Sara , Blanco Yolanda , Gómez-Ballesteros Rocío , Maurino Jorge , Pérez-Miralles Francisco , Forero Lucía , Calles Carmen , Martinez-Gines María L. , Gonzalez-Suarez Inés , Boyero Sabas , Romero-Pinel Lucía , Sempere Ángel P. , Meca-Lallana Virginia , Querol Luis , Costa-Frossard Lucienne , Sepulveda Maria , Solana Elisabeth
Published: May 2022

Background: The frequency of cognitive impairment (CI) reported in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is highly variable, and its relationship with demographic and clinical characteristics is poorly understood. We aimed to describe the cognitive profile of NMOSD patients, and to analyse the cognitive differences according to their serostatus; furthermore, we aimed to assess the relationship between cognition, demographic and clinical characteristics, and other aspects linked to health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Methods: This cross-sectional study included 41 patients (median age, 44 years; 85% women) from 13 Spanish centres. Demographic and clinical characteristics were collected along with a cognitive z-score (Rao’s Battery) and HRQoL patient-centred measures, and their relationship was explored using linear regression. We used the Akaike information criterion to model which characteristics were associated with cognition. Results: Fourteen patients (34%) had CI, and the most affected cognitive domain was visual memory. Cognition was similar in AQP4-IgG-positive and -negative patients. Gender, mood, fatigue, satisfaction with life, and perception of stigma were associated with cognitive performance (adjusted R2 = 0.396, p < 0.001). Conclusions: The results highlight the presence of CI and its impact on HRQoL in NMOSD patients. Cognitive and psychological assessments may be crucial to achieve a holistic approach in patient care.
Urban Cemeteries—Places of Multiple Diversity and Challenges. A Case Study from Łódź (Poland) and Leipzig (Germany)
Authors: Długoński Andrzej , Dushkova Diana , Haase Dagmar
Published: May 2022

This article presents a pilot study investigating the multidimensional diversity of cemeteries as an important element of cultural heritage and green infrastructure within the urban landscape. We studied the state and diversity of nature, perceptions, and activities of visitors. As religion is an important aspect that differentiates cemeteries from each other, we studied a sample of four multi-confessional urban cemeteries in Łódź (Poland) and Leipzig (Germany) by using site observation and a questionnaire survey. We found that cemeteries are far undervalued as public green resources that can perform important functions in sociocultural life and the mental well-being of the general public, as the perceptions of silence- and contemplation-seeking visitors tell us. The perception of cemeteries depends on the level of secularization, varying from a sacrum sphere up to specific recreational and touristic opportunities; findings that should be considered by town planners when optimizing the cultural ecosystem services of green spaces.
Labor Endowment, Cultivated Land Fragmentation, and Ecological Farming Adoption Strategies among Farmers in Jiangxi Province, China
Authors: Zhang Jie , Chen Meiqiu , Huang Chang , Lai Zhaohao
Published: May 2022

A deeper understanding of the factors that influence the ecological farming adoption strategies of farmers can help in developing effective adaptation measures to mitigate the degradation of cultivated land quality and ecological degradation. This study used a stratified random sampling technique to select 1488 households in Jiangxi Province, while the double-hurdle model was used to analyze the influence of labor endowments (LEs) and cultivated land fragmentation (CLF) on ecological farming decision-making. The results indicate that LEs and CLF play important roles in farmers’ decision-making with regard to ecological farming. To be more specific, the total household population and CLF have negative effects on adoption willingness, while the number of laborers has a positive effect. For the degree of adoption, the total household population has a negative effect, while the number of laborers and part-time employment have positive effects. In addition, farmers’ ecological farming behavior is also influenced by factors such as education, agricultural income, cooperatives, and agricultural subsidies. Overall, farmers have a high willingness to adopt ecological farming, but the degree of actual adoption is low. This is not conducive to the promotion of ecological farming techniques and the sustainable development of agriculture in China. The study proposes that the government should further improve financial investment and provide relevant technical services. In addition, a temporary work platform should be set up for farmers to encourage them to find other work during the agricultural low season.
Surface Modification of Magnesium Oxysulfate Whisker Based on SiO2@silane Coupling Agent and SiO2@polydopamine Double-Layer Structure for Reinforcing HDPE
Authors: Zhou Xiaochen , Zhang Yao , Jiang Guodong
Published: May 2022

In this study, we fabricated high-performance polyethylene composites by constructing SiO2@silane coupling agent (γ-methylacryloxypropyl trimethoxysilane) and SiO2@polydopamine (PDA) double-layer structures on a magnesium oxysulfate whisker surface. In addition to realizing strong mechanical properties, the flame-retardant properties of the composites were effectively improved. Further increase in the initial crystallization temperature of the modified composites indicated that the dispersion of whisker in the matrix was improved. The drag effect of the modified whisker on the HDPE molecular chain was characterized by dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA) and the morphology of the impact-fractured surface was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM); both confirmed the improved compatibility between the whisker and the matrix. The tensile strength of HDPE/MOSw@SiO2@KH570 and HDPE/MOSw@SiO2@PDA composites were 22.6% and 41.5% higher than that of the HDPE/MOSw composites, respectively. The impact strengths of the HDPE/MOSw@SiO2@KH570 and HDPE/MOSw@SiO2@PDA composites were 129% and 102% higher than that of the HDPE/MOSw composites, respectively. A stable carbon-silicate layer constructed by a SiO2@KH570 and SiO2@PDA double-layer structure delayed the combustion process. As a result, the limiting oxygen index (LOI) of HDPE/MOSw@SiO2@KH570 and HDPE/MOSw@SiO2@PDA composites increased from 22.5 to 22.9 and 23.5, respectively.
Feedforward–Feedback Controller Based on a Trained Quaternion Neural Network Using a Generalised HR Calculus with Application to Trajectory Control of a Three-Link Robot Manipulator
Authors: Takahashi Kazuhiko , Tano Eri , Hashimoto Masafumi
Published: May 2022

This study derives a learning algorithm for a quaternion neural network using the steepest descent method extended to quaternion numbers. This applies the generalised Hamiltonian–Real calculus to obtain derivatives of a real–valued cost function concerning quaternion variables and designs a feedback–feedforward controller as a control system application using such a network. The quaternion neural network is trained in real-time by introducing a feedback error learning framework to the controller. Thus, the quaternion neural network-based controller functions as an adaptive-type controller. The designed controller is applied to the control problem of a three-link robot manipulator, with the control task of making the robot manipulator’s end effector follow a desired trajectory in the Cartesian space. Computational experiments are conducted to investigate the learning capability and the characteristics of the quaternion neural network used in the controller. The experimental results confirm the feasibility of using the derived learning algorithm based on the generalised Hamiltonian–Real calculus to train the quaternion neural network and the availability of such a network for a control systems application.
Bifurcation Analysis of a Synthetic Drug Transmission Model with Two Time Delays
Authors: Zhang Hu , Zeb Anwar , Wan Aying , Zhang Zizhen
Published: May 2022

Synthetic drugs are taking the place of traditional drugs and have made headlines giving rise to serious social issues in many countries. In this work, a synthetic drug transmission model incorporating psychological addicts with two time delays is being developed. Local stability and exhibition of Hopf bifurcation are established analytically and numerically by taking the combinations of the two time delays as bifurcation parameters. The exhibition of Hopf bifurcation shows that it is burdensome to eradicate the synthetic drugs transmission in the population.
Mammalian Brain Ca2+ Channel Activity Transplanted into Xenopus laevis Oocytes
Authors: Rousset Matthieu , Humez Sandrine , Laurent Cyril , Buée Luc , Blum David , Cens Thierry , Vignes Michel , Charnet Pierre
Published: May 2022

Several mutations on neuronal voltage-gated Ca2+ channels (VGCC) have been shown to cause neurological disorders and contribute to the initiation of epileptic seizures, migraines, or cerebellar degeneration. Analysis of the functional consequences of these mutations mainly uses heterologously expressed mutated channels or transgenic mice which mimic these pathologies, since direct electrophysiological approaches on brain samples are not easily feasible. We demonstrate that mammalian voltage-gated Ca2+ channels from membrane preparation can be microtransplanted into Xenopus oocytes and can conserve their activity. This method, originally described to study the alteration of GABA receptors in human brain samples, allows the recording of the activity of membrane receptors and channels with their native post-translational processing, membrane environment, and regulatory subunits. The use of hippocampal, cerebellar, or cardiac membrane preparation displayed different efficacy for transplanted Ca2+ channel activity. This technique, now extended to the recording of Ca2+ channel activity, may therefore be useful in order to analyze the calcium signature of membrane preparations from unfixed human brain samples or normal and transgenic mice.
Effect of Thermomechanical Treatments on Microstructure, Phase Composition, Vickers Microhardness, and Young’s Modulus of Ti-xNb-5Mo Alloys for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Cardoso Giovana Collombaro , Buzalaf Marília Afonso Rabelo , Correa Diego Rafael Nespeque , Grandini Carlos Roberto
Published: May 2022

The development of new β-Ti alloys has been extensively studied in the medical field in recent times due to their more suitable mechanical properties, such as a relatively low Young’s modulus. This paper analyzes the influence of heat treatments (homogenization and annealing) and hot rolling on the microstructure, phase composition, and some mechanical properties of ternary alloys of the Ti-xNb-5Mo system, with an amount of Nb varying between 0 and 30 wt%. The samples are produced by argon arc melting. After melting, the samples are homogenized at 1000 °C for 24 h and are hot rolled and annealed at 1000 °C for 6 h with slow cooling. Structural and microstructural analyses are made using X-ray diffraction and optical and scanning electron microscopy. Mechanical properties are evaluated by Vickers microhardness and Young’s modulus. The amount of β phase increases after heat treatment and reduces after hot rolling. The microhardness and Young’s modulus of all heat-treated samples decrease when compared with the hot rolled ones. Some samples exhibit atypical Young’s modulus and microhardness values, such as 515 HV for the as-cast Ti-10Nb-5Mo sample, indicating the possible presence of ω phase in the microstructure. The Ti-30Nb-5Mo sample suffers less variation in its phase composition with thermomechanical treatments due to the β-stabilizing effect of the alloying elements. The studied mechanical properties indicate that the annealed Ti-30Nb-5Mo sample has potential for biomedical applications, exhibiting a Young’s modulus value of 69 GPa and a microhardness of 236 HV.
Feasibility of Broken Ore Flow Simulation in Block Caving Mining Method Using Attribute Stochastic Medium Theory
Authors: Dai Bibo , Zhao Xingdong , Zhu Zhonghua , Tao Ganqiang , Yin Gui
Published: May 2022

In this paper, to reveal the flow characteristics of broken mineral-rock of block caving, we present the Attribute Stochastic Medium Theory that combines an attribute block model with stochastic medium theory. An attribute block model was established to fit discrete target regions. A void transfer model and data structure were established based on stochastic medium theory. Our key contribution is that we propose Attribute Stochastic Medium Theory and present the concept of draw-out index and block fragmentation index. It can be used to analyze the flow characteristics of rock block under different drawing heights and different fragmentation conditions. We implement the flow algorithm and simulation with C++ programming. The results show that mineral elemental grade information of the ore-drawing body was obtained, and when the block fragmentation index remains unchanged, with the increase of the draw-out index, the ore-drawing ellipsoid develops gradually, the eccentricity increases gradually, and the average depth of the depression increases gradually. In the isolated extraction zone (IEZ), the length of the long half-axis of the IEZ increases linearly with the increase of the ore-drawing height. But the length of the short half-axis and the eccentricity of the IEZ increase nonlinearly with the increase of the ore-drawing height, showing a general power exponential relationship. Under the condition of constant draw-out index, with an increase of the block index, the eccentricity of the ellipsoid decreases. This method could obtain the properties and flow characteristics of caving ore and rock. Combined with in situ test of ore drawing. This method could provide guidance for the design of ore drawing bottom structure and ore drawing plan.
Can Extracts from the Leaves and Fruits of the Cotoneaster Species Be Considered Promising Anti-Acne Agents?
Authors: Krzemińska Barbara , Dybowski Michał P. , Klimek Katarzyna , Typek Rafał , Miazga-Karska Małgorzata , Ginalska Grażyna , Dos Santos Szewczyk Katarzyna
Published: May 2022

This study aimed to evaluate the phenolic profile and biological activity of the extracts from the leaves and fruits of Cotoneaster nebrodensis and Cotoneaster roseus. Considering that miscellaneous species of Cotoneaster are thought to be healing in traditional Asian medicine, we assumed that this uninvestigated species may reveal significant therapeutic properties. Here, we report the simultaneous assessment of chemical composition as well as biological activities (antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and cytotoxic properties) of tested species. Complementary LC-MS analysis revealed that polyphenols (especially flavonoids and proanthocyanidins) are the overriding phytochemicals with the greatest significance in tested biological activities. In vitro chemical tests considering biological activities revealed that obtained results showed different values depending on concentration, extraction solvent as well as phenolic content. Biological assays demonstrated that the investigated extracts possessed antibacterial properties and were not cytotoxic toward normal skin fibroblasts. Given the obtained results, we concluded that knowledge of the chemical composition and biological activities of investigated species are important to achieve a better understanding of the utilization of these plants in traditional medicine and be useful for further research in their application to treat various diseases, such as skin disorders.
Study on Extraction and Antioxidant Activity of Flavonoids from Hemerocallis fulva (Daylily) Leaves
Authors: Wang Wei , Zhang Xiaoli , Liu Qinglei , Lin Yucheng , Zhang Zhiguo , Li Shanshan
Published: May 2022

Hemerocallis fulva is a medical and edible plant. In this study, we optimized the ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) process of extracting flavonoids from Hemerocallis fulva leaves by single-factor experiments and response surface methodology (RSM). The optimum extraction conditions generating the maximal total flavonoids content was as follows: 70.6% ethanol concentration; 43.9:1 mL/g solvent to sample ratio; 61.7 °C extraction temperature. Under the optimized extraction conditions, the total flavonoid content (TFC) in eight Hemerocallis fulva varieties were determined, and H. fulva (L.) L. var. kwanso Regel had the highest TFC. The cytotoxicity of the extract was studied using the Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8 assay). When the concentration was less than 1.25 mg/mL, the extract had no significant cytotoxicity to HaCaT cells. The antioxidant activity was measured via chemical antioxidant activity methods in vitro and via cellular antioxidant activity methods. The results indicated that the extract had a strong ABTS and •OH radical scavenging activity. Additionally, the extract had an excellent protective effect against H2O2-induced oxidative damage at a concentration of 1.25 mg/mL, which could effectively reduce the level of ROS to 106.681 ± 9.733% (p < 0.001), compared with the 163.995 ± 6.308% of the H2O2 group. We identified five flavonoids in the extracts using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Infrared spectroscopy indicated that the extract contained the structure of flavonoids. The results showed that the extract of Hemerocallis fulva leaves had excellent biocompatibility and antioxidant activity, and could be used as a cheap and potential source of antioxidants in the food, cosmetics, and medicine industries.
Latest Advances in Biomimetic Cell Membrane-Coated and Membrane-Derived Nanovectors for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Rampado Riccardo , Caliceti Paolo , Agostini Marco
Published: May 2022

In the last decades, many nanovectors were developed for different diagnostic or therapeutic purposes. However, most nanosystems have been designed using a “bottom-up” approach, in which the basic components of the nanovector become assembled to achieve complex and specific behaviors. Despite the fine control of formulative conditions, the complexity of these systems often results cumbersome and difficult to scale-up. Recently, biomimetic materials emerged as a complementary or alternative design approach through a “top-down strategy”, using cell-derived materials as building blocks to formulate innovative nanovectors. The use of cell membranes as nanoparticle coatings endows nanomaterials with the biological identity and some of the functions of the cells they are derived from. In this review, we discuss some of the latest examples of membrane coated and membrane-derived biomimetic nanomaterials and underline the common general functions offered by the biomaterials used. From these examples, we suggest a systematic classification of these biomimetic materials based on their biological sources and formulation techniques, with their respective advantages and disadvantages, and summarize the current technologies used for membranes isolation and integration on nanovectors. We also discuss some current technical limitations and hint to future direction of the improvement for biomimetics.
Photoelectrochemical Performance of Nanotubular Fe2O3–TiO2 Electrodes under Solar Radiation
Authors: Sołtys-Mróz Monika , Syrek Karolina , Pięta Łukasz , Malek Kamilla , Sulka Grzegorz D.
Published: May 2022

Fe2O3–TiO2 materials were obtained by the cathodic electrochemical deposition of Fe on anodic TiO2 at different deposition times (5–180 s), followed by annealing at 450 °C. The effect of the hematite content on the photoelectrochemical (PEC) activity of the received materials was studied. The synthesized electrodes were characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), Mott–Schottky analysis, and PEC measurements. It was shown that the amount of deposited iron (ca. 0.5 at.%–30 at.%) and, consequently, hematite after a final annealing increased with the extension of deposition time and directly affected the semiconducting properties of the hybrid material. It was observed that the flat band potential shifted towards more positive values, facilitating photoelectrochemical water oxidation. In addition, the optical band gap decreased from 3.18 eV to 2.77 eV, which resulted in enhanced PEC visible-light response. Moreover, the Fe2O3–TiO2 electrodes were sensitive to the addition of glucose, which indicates that such materials may be considered as potential PEC sensors for the detection of glucose.
The Case for Octopus Consciousness: Temporality
Authors: Mather Jennifer
Published: May 2022

Temporality is one of the criteria that Birch has advanced for areas of cognitive ability that may underlie animal sentience. An ability to integrate and use information across time must be more than simply learning pieces of information and retrieving them. This paper looks at such wider use of information by octopuses across time. It evaluates accumulation of information about one’s place in space, as used across immediate egocentric localization by cuttlefish and medium distance navigation in octopuses. Information about useful items in the environment can be incorporated for future use by octopuses, including for shelter in antipredator situations. Finding prey is not random but can be predicted by environmental cues, especially by cuttlefish about future contingencies. Finally, the paper examines unlimited associative learning and constraints on learning, and the ability of cephalopods to explore and seek out information, even by play, for future use.
Mass Spectrometry Imaging for Spatial Chemical Profiling of Vegetative Parts of Plants
Authors: Ajith Akhila , Milnes Phillip J. , Johnson Giles N. , Lockyer Nicholas P.
Published: May 2022

The detection of chemical species and understanding their respective localisations in tissues have important implications in plant science. The conventional methods for imaging spatial localisation of chemical species are often restricted by the number of species that can be identified and is mostly done in a targeted manner. Mass spectrometry imaging combines the ability of traditional mass spectrometry to detect numerous chemical species in a sample with their spatial localisation information by analysing the specimen in a 2D manner. This article details the popular mass spectrometry imaging methodologies which are widely pursued along with their respective sample preparation and the data analysis methods that are commonly used. We also review the advancements through the years in the usage of the technique for the spatial profiling of endogenous metabolites, detection of xenobiotic agrochemicals and disease detection in plants. As an actively pursued area of research, we also address the hurdles in the analysis of plant tissues, the future scopes and an integrated approach to analyse samples combining different mass spectrometry imaging methods to obtain the most information from a sample of interest.