bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New Optical Design Method of Floating Type Collimator for Microscopic Camera Inspection
Authors: Chee Seonkoo , Ryu Jaemyung , Choi Hojong
Published: July 2021

Recently released mobile phone cameras are capable of photographing objects at a fairly close distance. In addition, the field angle from the camera has increased. To measure the resolution of a mobile phone camera, the target must be photographed. To measure the resolution according to the object distance change from a mobile phone camera with a wide field angle, the target size must be large, whereas the target position must be moved. However, the target size cannot be changed. A virtual object for the target was created using a collimator. Moving a part of the lens group constituting the collimator also changes the virtual object distance. If the amount of change in the virtual object distance is large, the resolution of the collimator may also change. Therefore, a collimator that maintains the resolution even when the distance of the virtual object changes is designed as a floating type in which two lens groups move. Therefore, we propose a new floating collimator optical system that can inspect the resolution of mobile phone cameras from infinity to a close range to compensate for aberrations caused by object distance changes.
An Atmospheric Visibility Grading Method Based on Ensemble Learning and Stochastic Weight Average
Authors: Zou Xiuguo , Wu Jiahong , Cao Zhibin , Qian Yan , Zhang Shixiu , Han Lu , Liu Shangkun , Zhang Jie , Song Yuanyuan
Published: July 2021

In order to adequately characterize the visual characteristics of atmospheric visibility and overcome the disadvantages of the traditional atmospheric visibility measurement method with significant dependence on preset reference objects, high cost, and complicated steps, this paper proposed an ensemble learning method for atmospheric visibility grading based on deep neural network and stochastic weight averaging. An experiment was conducted using the scene of an expressway, and three visibility levels were set, i.e., Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3. Firstly, the EfficientNet was transferred to extract the abstract features of the images. Then, training and grading were performed on the feature sets through the SoftMax regression model. Subsequently, the feature sets were ensembled using the method of stochastic weight averaging to obtain the atmospheric visibility grading model. The obtained datasets were input into the grading model and tested. The grading model classified the results into three categories, with the grading accuracy being 95.00%, 89.45%, and 90.91%, respectively, and the average accuracy of 91.79%. The results obtained by the proposed method were compared with those obtained by the existing methods, and the proposed method showed better performance than those of other methods. This method can be used to classify the atmospheric visibility of traffic and reduce the incidence of traffic accidents caused by atmospheric visibility.
Input Parameters for Airborne Brake Wear Emission Simulations: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Rahimi Mostafa , Bortoluzzi Daniele , Wahlström Jens
Published: July 2021

Non-exhaust emissions, generated by the wear of brake systems, tires, roads, clutches, and road resuspension, are responsible for a large part of airborne pollutants in urban areas. Brake wear accounts for 55% of non-exhaust emissions and significantly contributes to urban health diseases related to air pollution. A major part of the studies reported in the scientific literature are focused on experimental methods to sample and characterize brake wear particles in a reliable, representative, and repeatable way. In this framework, simulation is an important tool, which makes it possible to give interpretations of the experimental results, formulate new testing approaches, and predict the emission produced by brakes. The present comprehensive literature review aims to introduce the state of the art of the research on the different aspects of airborne wear debris resulting from brake systems which can be used as inputs in future simulation models. In this review, previous studies focusing on airborne emissions produced by brake systems are investigated in three main categories: the subsystem level, system level, and environmental level. As well as all the information provided in the literature, the simulation methodologies are also investigated at all levels. It can be concluded from the present review study that various factors, such as the uncertainty and repeatability of the brake wear experiments, distinguish the results of the subsystem and system levels. This gap should be taken into account in the development of future experimental and simulation methods for the investigation of airborne brake wear emissions.
The Evolution of Safe and Effective Coaguligands for Vascular Targeting and Precision Thrombosis of Solid Tumors and Vascular Malformations
Authors: Faqihi Fahimeh , Stoodley Marcus A. , McRobb Lucinda S.
Published: July 2021

In cardiovascular and cerebrovascular biology, control of thrombosis and the coagulation cascade in ischemic stroke, myocardial infarction, and other coagulopathies is the focus of significant research around the world. Ischemic stroke remains one of the largest causes of death and disability in developed countries. Preventing thrombosis and protecting vessel patency is the primary goal. However, utilization of the body’s natural coagulation cascades as an approach for targeted destruction of abnormal, disease-associated vessels and tissues has been increasing over the last 30 years. This vascular targeting approach, often termed “vascular infarction”, describes the deliberate, targeted delivery of a thrombogenic effector to diseased blood vessels with the aim to induce localized activation of the coagulation cascade and stable thrombus formation, leading to vessel occlusion and ablation. As systemic delivery of pro-thrombotic agents may cause consternation amongst traditional stroke researchers, proponents of the approach must suitably establish both efficacy and safety to take this field forward. In this review, we describe the evolution of this field and, with a focus on thrombogenic effectors, summarize the current literature with respect to emerging trends in “coaguligand” development, in targeted tumor vessel destruction, and in expansion of the approach to the treatment of brain vascular malformations.
Cellulases: From Bioactivity to a Variety of Industrial Applications
Authors: Ejaz Uroosa , Sohail Muhammad , Ghanemi Abdelaziz
Published: July 2021

Utilization of microbial enzymes has been widely reported for centuries, but the commercial use of enzymes has been recently adopted. Particularly, cellulases have been utilized in various commercial sectors including agriculture, brewing, laundry, pulp and paper and textile industry. Cellulases of microbial origin have shown their potential application in various commercial sectors including textile, pulp and paper, laundry, brewing, agriculture and biofuel. Cellulases have diversified applications in the food industry, food service, food supply and its preservation. Indeed, cellulases can tenderize fruits, clarify the fruit juices, reduce roughage in dough, hydrolyze the roasted coffee, extract tea polyphenols and essential oils from olives and can increase aroma and taste in food items. However, their role in food industries has by and large remained neglected. The use of immobilized cellulases has further expanded their application in fruit and vegetable processing as it potentiates the catalytic power and reduces the cost of process. Technological and scientific developments will further expand their potential usage in the food industry.
MiRNA Detection Using a Rolling Circle Amplification and RNA-Cutting Allosteric Deoxyribozyme Dual Signal Amplification Strategy
Authors: Fang Chenxin , Ouyang Ping , Yang Yuxing , Qing Yang , Han Jialun , Shang Wenyan , Chen Yubing , Du Jie
Published: July 2021

A microRNA (miRNA) detection platform composed of a rolling circle amplification (RCA) system and an allosteric deoxyribozyme system is proposed, which can detect miRNA-21 rapidly and efficiently. Padlock probe hybridization with the target miRNA is achieved through complementary base pairing and the padlock probe forms a closed circular template under the action of ligase; this circular template results in RCA. In the presence of DNA polymerase, RCA proceeds and a long chain with numerous repeating units is formed. In the presence of single-stranded DNA (H1 and H2), multi-component nucleic acid enzymes (MNAzymes) are formed that have the ability to cleave substrates. Finally, substrates containing fluorescent and quenching groups and magnesium ions are added to the system to activate the MNAzyme and the substrate cleavage reaction, thus achieving fluorescence intensity amplification. The RCA–MNAzyme system has dual signal amplification and presents a sensing platform that demonstrates broad prospects in the analysis and detection of nucleic acids.
Effect of Xenon Treatment on Gene Expression in Brain Tissue after Traumatic Brain Injury in Rats
Authors: Filev Anton D. , Silachev Denis N. , Ryzhkov Ivan A. , Lapin Konstantin N. , Babkina Anastasiya S. , Grebenchikov Oleg A. , Pisarev Vladimir M.
Published: July 2021

The overactivation of inflammatory pathways and/or a deficiency of neuroplasticity may result in the delayed recovery of neural function in traumatic brain injury (TBI). A promising approach to protecting the brain tissue in TBI is xenon (Xe) treatment. However, xenon’s mechanisms of action remain poorly clarified. In this study, the early-onset expression of 91 target genes was investigated in the damaged and in the contralateral brain areas (sensorimotor cortex region) 6 and 24 h after injury in a TBI rat model. The expression of genes involved in inflammation, oxidation, antioxidation, neurogenesis and neuroplasticity, apoptosis, DNA repair, autophagy, and mitophagy was assessed. The animals inhaled a gas mixture containing xenon and oxygen (ϕXe = 70%; ϕO2 25–30% 60 min) 15–30 min after TBI. The data showed that, in the contralateral area, xenon treatment induced the expression of stress genes (Irf1, Hmox1, S100A8, and S100A9). In the damaged area, a trend towards lower expression of the inflammatory gene Irf1 was observed. Thus, our results suggest that xenon exerts a mild stressor effect in healthy brain tissue and has a tendency to decrease the inflammation following damage, which might contribute to reducing the damage and activating the early compensatory processes in the brain post-TBI.
The Impact of Avant-Garde Art on Brutalist Architecture
Authors: Niebrzydowski Wojciech
Published: July 2021

Brutalism was an architectural trend that emerged after World War II, and in the 1960s and 1970s, it spread throughout the world. The development of brutalist architecture was greatly influenced by post-war avant-garde art. The greatest impact on brutalism was exerted by such avant-garde trends as art autre, art brut, and musique concrète. Architects were most inspired by the works of such artists as Jackson Pollock, Jean Dubuffet, Pierre Schaeffer, Eduardo Paolozzi, and Nigel Henderson. The main aim of the research was to identify and characterize the most important ideas and principles common to avant-garde art and brutalist architecture. Due to the nature of the research problem and its complexity, the method of historical interpretative studies was used. The following research techniques were employed: analysis of the literature, comparative analysis, multiple case studies, descriptive analysis, and studies of buildings in situ. The research found the most important common ideas guiding brutalist architects and avant-garde artists: rejection of previous principles and doctrines; searching for the rudiments; mirroring the realities of everyday life; glorification of ordinariness; sincerity of the material, structure, and function; use of raw materials and rough textures.
Seismic Performance Analysis of Tuned Mass Rocking Wall (TMRW)-Frame Building Structures
Authors: Wang Andong , Chen Shanghong , Lin Wei , Qi Ai
Published: July 2021

A tuned mass rocking wall (TMRW) is a passive control device that combines the merits of a traditional tuned mass damper (TMD) and a traditional rocking wall (RW). TMRWs not only help avoid weak story failure of the host structure but can also be regarded as a largely tuned mass substructure in the building structure. Through the appropriate design of the frequency ratio, the host structure can dissipate much more energy under earthquake excitations. In this paper, the basic equations of motion for the mechanical model of an SDOF structure-rigid rocking wall are established, and the optimization formulas of frequency ratio and damping ratio of TMRW are derived. Through the dynamic elastoplastic analysis of a six-story TMRW-frame model, the applicability of the derived parameter optimization formulas and the effectiveness of the TMRW in seismic performance control are investigated. The results demonstrate that the TMRW can coordinate the uneven displacement angle between stories of the host structure. Additionally, the TMRW is found to possess the merit of reducing both the peak and root-mean-square (RMS) structural responses when subjected to different types of earthquake excitations.
Combined Assessment of Preoperative Frailty and Sarcopenia Allows the Prediction of Overall Survival in Patients with Lung Cancer (NSCLC) and Surgically Treated Brain Metastasis
Authors: Ilic Inja , Faron Anton , Heimann Muriel , Potthoff Anna-Laura , Schäfer Niklas , Bode Christian , Borger Valeri , Eichhorn Lars , Giordano Frank A. , Güresir Erdem , Jacobs Andreas H. , Ko Yon-Dschun , Landsberg Jennifer , Lehmann Felix , Radbruch Alexander , Herrlinger Ulrich , Vatter Hartmut , Schuss Patrick , Schneider Matthias
Published: July 2021

Neurosurgical resection represents an important therapeutic pillar in patients with brain metastasis (BM). Such extended treatment modalities require preoperative assessment of patients’ physical status to estimate individual treatment success. The aim of the present study was to analyze the predictive value of frailty and sarcopenia as assessment tools for physiological integrity in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who had undergone surgery for BM. Between 2013 and 2018, 141 patients were surgically treated for BM from NSCLC at the authors’ institution. The preoperative physical condition was assessed by the temporal muscle thickness (TMT) as a surrogate parameter for sarcopenia and the modified frailty index (mFI). For the ≥65 aged group, median overall survival (mOS) significantly differed between patients classified as ‘frail’ (mFI ≥ 0.27) and ‘least and moderately frail’ (mFI < 0.27) (15 months versus 11 months (p = 0.02)). Sarcopenia revealed significant differences in mOS for the <65 aged group (10 versus 18 months for patients with and without sarcopenia (p = 0.036)). The present study confirms a predictive value of preoperative frailty and sarcopenia with respect to OS in patients with NSCLC and surgically treated BM. A combined assessment of mFI and TMT allows the prediction of OS across all age groups.
Vascular Involvement in Thymic Epithelial Tumors: Surgical and Oncological Outcomes
Authors: Comacchio Giovanni M. , Dell’Amore Andrea , Marino Maria Carlotta , Russo Michele Dario , Schiavon Marco , Mammana Marco , Faccioli Eleonora , Lorenzoni Giulia , Gregori Dario , Pasello Giulia , Marulli Giuseppe , Rea Federico
Published: July 2021

Background: The involvement of mediastinal great vessels is common in advanced stage thymic tumors, which makes their surgical resection challenging. Moreover, the impact of vascular involvement on the oncological prognosis is still unclear. The aim of this study is to investigate the surgical and oncological outcomes and the impact of vascular involvement in a population of patients operated for advanced stage thymic tumors. Methods: A retrospective analysis on four hundred and sixty-five patients undergoing resection for advanced stage (Masaoka III–IV) thymic tumors in a single high-volume center was performed. One hundred forty-four patients met the inclusion criteria and were eligible for the study. Patients were divided in two groups according to the presence or absence of vascular involvement. Results: the two groups did not differ for the baseline characteristics and showed comparable surgical outcomes. Vascular involvement was not associated with worse overall survival but with an increased recurrence rate (p = 0.03). Multivariable analysis demonstrated a higher risk of recurrence in patients without R0 resection (HR 0.11, 0.02–0.54, p = 0.006) and with thymic carcinoma (HR 2.27, 1.22–4.24, p = 0.01). Conclusions: resection of thymic tumors with vascular involvement can be performed with optimal surgical results in a high volume center. From the oncological point of view, the involvement of the great vessels seems to be associated with a higher recurrence rate without affecting long-term survival.
Efficient Rice-Husk-Derived Silica Nanocatalysts for Organic Dye Removal from Water
Authors: Niculescu Violeta-Carolina , Raboaca Maria
Published: July 2021

Rice is the second most extensively consumed food ingredient, and its by-products in the paddy field include rice husk and straw. Rice husk ash, resulting from rice husk burning, is considered an environment menace, inducing negative effects on the area in which it is disposed of. In this study, rice husk was applied as a silicate source to obtain mesoporous silica material. Characterization techniques confirmed the well-ordered mesophase and resemblance of mesoporous silica resulting from rice husk ash with one obtained from conventional silica sources. The mesoporous silica material was further used as catalyst support. The resulting catalysts were used for rhodamine 110 oxidation, proving high potential for oxidizing hazardous organic compounds, such as dyes from water, resulting in environmentally harmless products.
Synthesis of Xylyl-Linked Bis-Benzimidazolium Salts and Their Application in the Palladium-Catalyzed Suzuki–Miyaura Cross-Coupling Reaction of Aryl Chlorides
Authors: Wang Tsui , Wei Ting-Rong , Huang Shu-Jyun , Lai Yu-Ting , Lee Dong-Sheng , Lu Ta-Jung
Published: July 2021

A new series of xylyl-linked bis-benzimidazolium salts were efficiently prepared using a simple preparation method from bis-benzimidazolium precursors featuring highly tunable linkers and wingtips. A highly efficient Suzuki–Miyaura cross-coupling reaction of aryl chlorides within the range of 0.5–2.0 mol% Pd-catalyst loading was observed. Also, di-ortho-substituted biaryl synthesis was achieved.
Prognostic Relevance of Neutrophil to Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR) in Luminal Breast Cancer: A Retrospective Analysis in the Neoadjuvant Setting
Authors: Grassadonia Antonino , Graziano Vincenzo , Iezzi Laura , Vici Patrizia , Barba Maddalena , Pizzuti Laura , Cicero Giuseppe , Krasniqi Eriseld , Mazzotta Marco , Marinelli Daniele , Amodio Antonella , Natoli Clara , Tinari Nicola
Published: July 2021

The neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) is a promising predictive and prognostic factor in breast cancer. We investigated its ability to predict disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) in patients with luminal A- or luminal B-HER2-negative breast cancer who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT). Pre-treatment complete blood cell counts from 168 consecutive patients with luminal breast cancer were evaluated to assess NLR. The study population was stratified into NLRlow or NLRhigh according to a cut-off value established by receiving operator curve (ROC) analysis. Data on additional pre- and post-treatment clinical-pathological characteristics were also collected. Kaplan–Meier curves, log-rank tests, and Cox proportional hazards models were used for statistical analyses. Patients with pre-treatment NLRlow showed a significantly shorter DFS (HR: 6.97, 95% CI: 1.65–10.55, p = 0.002) and OS (HR: 7.79, 95% CI: 1.25–15.07, p = 0.021) compared to those with NLRhigh. Non-ductal histology, luminal B subtype, and post-treatment Ki67 ≥ 14% were also associated with worse DFS (p = 0.016, p = 0.002, and p = 0.001, respectively). In a multivariate analysis, luminal B subtype, post-treatment Ki67 ≥ 14%, and NLRlow remained independent prognostic factors for DFS, while only post-treatment Ki67 ≥ 14% and NLRlow affected OS. The present study provides evidence that pre-treatment NLRlow helps identify women at higher risk of recurrence and death among patients affected by luminal breast cancer treated with NACT.
NNRTI and Liver Damage: Evidence of Their Association and the Mechanisms Involved
Authors: Benedicto Ana M. , Fuster-Martínez Isabel , Tosca Joan , Esplugues Juan V. , Blas-García Ana , Apostolova Nadezda
Published: July 2021

Due to the improved effectiveness and safety of combined antiretroviral therapy, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection has become a manageable, chronic condition rather than a mortal disease. However, HIV patients are at increased risk of experiencing non-AIDS-defining illnesses, with liver-related injury standing out as one of the leading causes of death among these patients. In addition to more HIV-specific processes, such as antiretroviral drug-related toxicity and direct injury to the liver by the virus itself, its pathogenesis is related to conditions that are also common in the general population, such as alcoholic and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, viral hepatitis, and ageing. Non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs) are essential components of combined anti-HIV treatment due to their unique antiviral activity, high specificity, and acceptable toxicity. While first-generation NNRTIs (nevirapine and efavirenz) have been related largely to liver toxicity, those belonging to the second generation (etravirine, rilpivirine and doravirine) seem to be generally safe for the liver. Indeed, there is preclinical evidence of rilpivirine being hepatoprotective in different models of liver injury, independently of the presence of HIV. The present study aims to review the mechanisms by which currently available anti-HIV drugs belonging to the NNRTI family may participate in the development of liver disease.
Neutrophil Extracellular Traps Affecting Cardiovascular Health in Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases
Authors: Thakur Manovriti , Evans Bryce , Schindewolf Marc , Baumgartner Iris , Döring Yvonne
Published: July 2021

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are web-like structures of decondensed extracellular chromatin fibers and neutrophil granule proteins released by neutrophils. NETs participate in host immune defense by entrapping pathogens. They are pro-inflammatory in function, and they act as an initiator of vascular coagulopathies by providing a platform for the attachment of various coagulatory proteins. NETs are diverse in their ability to alter physiological and pathological processes including infection and inflammation. In this review, we will summarize recent findings on the role of NETs in bacterial/viral infections associated with vascular inflammation, thrombosis, atherosclerosis and autoimmune disorders. Understanding the complex role of NETs in bridging infection and chronic inflammation as well as discussing important questions related to their contribution to pathologies outlined above may pave the way for future research on therapeutic targeting of NETs applicable to specific infections and inflammatory disorders.
Characterisation of Neurospheres-Derived Cells from Human Olfactory Epithelium
Authors: Zelenova Elena A. , Kondratyev Nikolay V. , Lezheiko Tatyana V. , Tsarapkin Grigoriy Y. , Kryukov Andrey I. , Kishinevsky Alexander E. , Tovmasyan Anna S. , Momotyuk Ekaterina D. , Dashinimaev Erdem B. , Golimbet Vera E.
Published: July 2021

A major problem in psychiatric research is a deficit of relevant cell material of neuronal origin, especially in large quantities from living individuals. One of the promising options is cells from the olfactory neuroepithelium, which contains neuronal progenitors that ensure the regeneration of olfactory receptors. These cells are easy to obtain with nasal biopsies and it is possible to grow and cultivate them in vitro. In this work, we used RNAseq expression profiling and immunofluorescence microscopy to characterise neurospheres-derived cells (NDC), that simply and reliably grow from neurospheres (NS) obtained from nasal biopsies. We utilized differential expression analysis to explore the molecular changes that occur during transition from NS to NDC. We found that processes associated with neuronal and vascular cells are downregulated in NDC. A comparison with public transcriptomes revealed a depletion of neuronal and glial components in NDC. We also discovered that NDC have several metabolic features specific to neuronal progenitors treated with the fungicide maneb. Thus, while NDC retain some neuronal/glial identity, additional protocol alterations are needed to use NDC for mass sample collection in psychiatric research.
Mast Cell-Specific Deletion of Group III Secreted Phospholipase A2 Impairs Mast Cell Maturation and Functions
Authors: Taketomi Yoshitaka , Endo Yuki , Higashi Takayoshi , Murase Remi , Ono Tomio , Taya Choji , Kobayashi Tetsuyuki , Murakami Makoto
Published: July 2021

Tissue-resident mast cells (MCs) have important roles in IgE-associated and -independent allergic reactions. Although microenvironmental alterations in MC phenotypes affect the susceptibility to allergy, understanding of the regulation of MC maturation is still incomplete. We previously reported that group III secreted phospholipase A2 (sPLA2-III) released from immature MCs is functionally coupled with lipocalin-type prostaglandin D2 (PGD2) synthase in neighboring fibroblasts to supply a microenvironmental pool of PGD2, which in turn acts on the PGD2 receptor DP1 on MCs to promote their proper maturation. In the present study, we reevaluated the role of sPLA2-III in MCs using a newly generated MC-specific Pla2g3-deficient mouse strain. Mice lacking sPLA2-III specifically in MCs, like those lacking the enzyme in all tissues, had immature MCs and displayed reduced local and systemic anaphylactic responses. Furthermore, MC-specific Pla2g3-deficient mice, as well as MC-deficient KitW-sh mice reconstituted with MCs prepared from global Pla2g3-null mice, displayed a significant reduction in irritant contact dermatitis (ICD) and an aggravation of contact hypersensitivity (CHS). The increased CHS response by Pla2g3 deficiency depended at least partly on the reduced expression of hematopoietic PGD2 synthase and thereby reduced production of PGD2 due to immaturity of MCs. Overall, our present study has confirmed that MC-secreted sPLA2-III promotes MC maturation, thereby facilitating acute anaphylactic and ICD reactions and limiting delayed CHS response.
PANI-Based Wearable Electrochemical Sensor for pH Sweat Monitoring
Authors: Mazzara Francesca , Patella Bernardo , D’Agostino Chiara , Bruno Maria Giuseppina , Carbone Sonia , Lopresti Francesco , Aiello Giuseppe , Torino Claudia , Vilasi Antonio , O’Riordan Alan , Inguanta Rosalinda
Published: July 2021

Nowadays, we are assisting in the exceptional growth in research relating to the development of wearable devices for sweat analysis. Sweat is a biofluid that contains useful health information and allows a non-invasive, continuous and comfortable collection. For this reason, it is an excellent biofluid for the detection of different analytes. In this work, electrochemical sensors based on polyaniline thin films deposited on the flexible substrate polyethylene terephthalate coated with indium tin oxide were studied. Polyaniline thin films were abstained by the potentiostatic deposition technique, applying a potential of +2 V vs. SCE for 90 s. To improve the sensor performance, the electronic substrate was modified with reduced graphene oxide, obtained at a constant potential of −0.8 V vs. SCE for 200 s, and then polyaniline thin films were electrodeposited on top of the as-deposited substrate. All samples were characterized by XRD, SEM, EDS, static contact angle and FT-IR/ATR analysis to correlate the physical-chemical features with the performance of the sensors. The obtained electrodes were tested as pH sensors in the range from 2 to 8, showing good behavior, with a sensitivity of 62.3 mV/pH, very close to a Nernstian response, and a reproducibility of 3.8%. Interference tests, in the presence of competing ions, aimed to verify the selectivity, were also performed. Finally, a real sweat sample was collected, and the sweat pH was quantified with both the proposed sensor and a commercial pH meter, showing an excellent concordance.
Age- and Sex-Related Changes in Labial Dimensions of Sudanese Youngs of Arab Descent: A Three-Dimensional Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Dolci Claudia , Elamin Fadil , Gibelli Daniele M. , Barni Luisa , Scolaro Alessandra , Sessa Fabiola , Maspero Cinzia , Cappella Annalisa , Sforza Chiarella
Published: July 2021

Proper evaluation of facial features during growth and development requires the knowledge of anthropometric reference values validated for ethnicity, sex and age. In order to provide information concerning the normal sex-related size of the lips during childhood and young adulthood in Sudanese people of Arab descent, the three-dimensional coordinates of nine labial soft tissue landmarks were obtained by a laser scanner in 332 male and 386 female healthy Northern Sudanese subjects aged 3–30 years. Six labial linear distances, the vermilion height to mouth width ratio, vermilion areas and lip volumes were calculated and averaged for age and sex. Comparisons were performed by factorial analysis of variance (p < 0.01). All labial dimensions significantly increased with age. Significant effects of sex were found for four measurements only, with very small effect size; nonetheless, lips and their parts grew faster in females than in males at almost all ages. Philtrum width was the first linear distance that attained adult values. The vermilion height to mouth width ratio was nearly constant across the age groups. Data collected in this study contribute to information about ethnic-specific lip morphology during growth and development. As orolabial features change over time with their own pattern, the relevant age-related trends should be properly considered for clinical treatment planning.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) Emitted from Coated Furniture Units
Authors: Ulker Ozge Cemiloglu , Ulker Onur , Hiziroglu Salim
Published: July 2021

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are the main source influencing the overall air quality of an environment. It is a well-known fact that coated furniture units, in the form of paints and varnishes, emit VOCs, reducing the air quality and resulting in significant health problems. Exposure time to such compounds is also an important parameter regarding their possible health effects. Such issues also have a greater influence when the exposure period is extended. The main objective of this study was to review some of the important factors for the emission of VOCs from coated furniture, from the perspective of material characteristics, as well as health concerns. Some methods for controlling VOC emissions to improve indoor air quality, from the point of view recent regulations and suggestions, are also presented in this work.
Comparison of Machine Learning Approaches with Traditional Methods for Predicting the Compressive Strength of Rice Husk Ash Concrete
Authors: Amin Muhammad Nasir , Iqtidar Ammar , Khan Kaffayatullah , Javed Muhammad Faisal , Shalabi Faisal I. , Qadir Muhammad Ghulam
Published: July 2021

Efforts are being devoted to reducing the harmful effect of the construction industry around the globe, including the use of rice husk ash as a partial replacement of cement. However, no method is available to date to predict the compressive strength (CS) of rice husk ash blended concrete (RHAC). In this study, advanced machine learning techniques (artificial neural network, artificial neuro-fuzzy inference system) were used to predict the CS of RHAC. Based on the published literature, six inputs, i.e., age of specimen, percentage of rice husk ash, percentage of superplasticizer, aggregates, water, and amount of cement, were selected. Results obtained from machine learning methods were compared with traditional methods such as linear and non-linear regressions. It was observed that the performance of machine learning methods was superior to traditional methods for determining the CS of RHAC. This study will prove beneficial in minimizing the cost and time of executing laboratory experiments for designing the optimum content portions of RHAC.
High-Throughput Computation of New Carbon Allotropes with Diverse Hybridization and Ultrahigh Hardness
Authors: Al-Fahdi Mohammed , Rodriguez Alejandro , Ouyang Tao , Hu Ming
Published: July 2021

The discovery of new carbon allotropes with different building blocks and crystal symmetries has long been of great interest to broad materials science fields. Herein, we report several hundred new carbon allotropes predicted by the state-of-the-art RG2 code and first-principles calculations. The types of new carbon allotropes that were identified in this work span pure sp2, hybrid sp2/sp3, and pure sp3 C–C bonding. All structures were globally optimized at the first-principles level. The thermodynamic stability of some selected carbon allotropes was further validated by computing their phonon dispersions. The predicted carbon allotropes possess a broad range of Vickers’ hardness. This wide range of Vickers’ hardness is explained in detail in terms of both atomic descriptors such as density, volume per atom, packing fraction, and local potential energy throughout the unit cell, and global descriptors such as elastic modulus, shear modulus, and bulk modulus, universal anisotropy, Pugh’s ratio, and Poisson’s ratio. For the first time, we found strong correlation between Vickers’ hardness and average local potentials in the unit cell. This work provides deep insight into the identification of novel carbon materials with high Vickers’ hardness for modern applications in which ultrahigh hardness is desired. Moreover, the local potential averaged over the entire unit cell of an atomic structure, an easy-to-evaluate atomic descriptor, could serve as a new atomic descriptor for efficient screening of the mechanical properties of unexplored structures in future high-throughput computing and artificial-intelligence-accelerated materials discovery methods.
Monitoring the Transition Period in Dairy Cows through 1H NMR-Based Untargeted Metabolomics
Authors: López Radcenco Andrés , Adrien María de Lourdes , Ruprechter Gretel , de Torres Elena , Meikle Ana , Moyna Guillermo
Published: July 2021

The metabolic alterations associated with the increase in milk production make the transition period critical to the health of dairy cows, usually leading to a higher incidence of disease in periparturient animals. In this manuscript, we describe the use of NMR-based untargeted metabolomics to follow how these changes impact the serum metabolome in a group of 28 transition dairy cows with no initial clinical diseases. Principal component analysis (PCA) of serum 1H NMR data from four weeks before calving to 8 weeks after parturition allowed us to clearly identify four stages during the transition period. Pairwise comparisons using orthogonal partial least square discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) and univariate data analysis led to the identification of 18 metabolites that varied significantly through these stages. Species such as acetate, betaine, and creatine are observed early after calving, while other markers of metabolic stress, including acetone, β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), and choline, accumulate significantly at the height of milk production. Furthermore, marked variations in the levels of lactate, allantoin, alanine, and other amino acids reveal the activation of different gluconeogenic pathways following parturition. Concomitant with a return to homeostasis, a gradual normalization of the serum metabolome occurs 8 weeks after calving. Correlations of metabolite levels with dietary and metabolic adaptations based on animal parity could also be identified. Overall, these results show that NMR-based chemometric methods are ideally suited to monitor manifestations of metabolic diseases throughout the transition period and to assess the impact of nutritional management schemes on the metabolism of dairy cows.
GLUT1 Expression in Cutaneous Sebaceous Lesions Determined by Immunohistochemical Staining Patterns
Authors: Barron Cynthia Reyes , Smoller Bruce R.
Published: July 2021

GLUT1 is a membrane associated carrier protein that functions in the physiologic transport of glucose across cell membranes. Multiple studies have shown an increased GLUT1 expression in various tumor types and a role in cancer prognosis. The aim of this study was to determine whether cutaneous sebaceous lesions have a differential expression of GLUT1 by immunohistochemistry (IHC). GLUT1 IHC was performed on excision specimens of ten cases of sebaceous carcinoma, nine of sebaceoma, ten of sebaceous adenoma, and ten of sebaceous hyperplasia. Intense, diffuse cytoplasmic staining was observed in sebaceous carcinoma. The pattern of GLUT1 staining in sebaceomas and sebaceous adenomas consisted of a gradient of intense cytoplasmic staining in the basaloid cells with a decreased intensity to membranous staining only and absent staining in mature sebaceous cells. In lesions of sebaceous hyperplasia, GLUT1 staining outlined the basal layer of each gland; cytoplasmic staining was minimal to absent. Increased cytoplasmic staining of GLUT1 may correlate with cellular metabolic and proliferative activity. GLUT1 has potential utility in differentiating sebaceous lesions.
MRI of Finger Pulleys at 7T—Direct Characterization of Pulley Ruptures in an Ex Vivo Model
Authors: Heiss Rafael , Librimir Alexander , Lutter Christoph , Janka Rolf , Kuerten Stefanie , Roemer Frank W. , Nagel Armin M. , Uder Michael , Bayer Thomas
Published: July 2021

The aim of this study was to evaluate 7 Tesla (7T) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for direct visualization and specific characterization of the finger flexor pulleys A2, A3, and A4 before and after ex vivo pulley rupture. Thirty fingers of human cadavers were examined before and after pulley disruption with a 26 min clinical 7T pulse sequence protocol. Images were assessed by two experienced radiologists for the presence of pulley rupture. Injury characterization included definition of rupture location, morphology, and complications. Image quality was evaluated according to a 4-point Likert-type scale from “not evaluable” to “excellent”. Macroscopic preparations were used as the reference standard. Direct characterization of intact A2, A3, and A4 pulleys and the corresponding pulley lesions was possible in all cases. The rupture location was distributed equally at the radial, ulnar, and central parts of the pulleys. A dislocation and intercalation of the pulley stump between the flexor tendon and finger phalanges was observed as a complication in 62.5% of cases. The average Likert score for direct visualization of pulleys was 2.67 before rupture and 2.79 after rupture creation, demonstrating adequate image quality for routine application. 7T MRI enables a direct characterization of A2, A3, and A4 pulleys before and after artificial disruption, including the definition of rupture morphology and location as well as the detection of rupture complications. This promises a precise presurgical evaluation of pulley injuries and complicated pulley stump dislocations.
Import Risks of Agricultural Products in Foreign Trade
Authors: Baranauskaitė Lina , Jurevičienė Daiva
Published: July 2021

This paper aims to identify the main risk groups according to their significance on imports of agricultural products. After analysis of the scientific literature, eight groups of risks associated with agricultural products import were determined: supply risks, demand risks, production risks, management plus operational risks, logistical plus infrastructural risks, political risks, policy plus regulatory risks and financial risks. In order to assess the importance of all import risk groups, three Multicriteria decision support methods (MCDM)—SAW, TOPSIS and Geometric means—for expert evaluation are used. The article introduces a new import risks assessment framework CIRA (Country’s Imports Risk Assessment) contributing to the systematic approach of a country’s international trade risks management. The results order risk groups according to their importance in the following order: production (the most crucial risk group), logistical plus infrastructural, financial, management plus operational, political, supply, policy plus regulatory and demand risks.
Psychometric Properties of the Slovak Version of Short Dark Triad
Authors: Čopková Radka , Šafár Leoš
Published: July 2021

The Short Dark Triad is a scale used to capture three aversive personality traits—Machiavellianism, narcissism, and psychopathy on the subclinical level. The present study aimed to verify the psychometric properties of the Slovak version of the Short Dark Triad scale in three studies. The first two studies aimed to examine the reliability of the scale. The aim of Study 1 was to examine the factor structure of SD3. A three-factor model consisting of three latent intercorrelated factors in a unidimensional and bifactorial model were examined on a sample of 588 participants. Study 2 aimed to test the consistency of the results over time (test–retest reliability) on the sample of 117 participants. In Study 3, convergent and divergent validity was examined on the sample of 333 participants. For both kinds of validity examination, the Slovak version of NEO-FFI was used. The internal consistency of the subscales and test results, the same as the retest results, were satisfactory. The relationships between the scales were found to be significant. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) results supported the original three-factor model. Significant interrelations have been established between Machiavellianism and openness, agreeableness and conscientiousness; narcissism and neuroticism, extraversion and agreeableness; psychopathy and openness, agreeableness and conscientiousness. The Short Dark Triad achieved satisfactory values of reliability and validity; therefore, it can be used on the Slovak population.
Emergy-Based Evaluation on the Systemic Sustainability of Rural Ecosystem under China Poverty Alleviation and Rural Revitalization: A Case of the Village in North China
Authors: Xu Yinan , Zhao Yingxing , Sui Peng , Gao Wangsheng , Li Zhijun , Chen Yuanquan
Published: July 2021

A number of new rural management models have emerged to solve the problems of economic backwardness, insufficient resource utilization, and technical shortages in rural areas in the context of poverty alleviation to the rural revitalization strategy in China. However, the influence of new rural management model under all countermeasures for rural sustainable development with a comprehensive perspective is lacking. Therefore, exploring whether the new rural management model meets the requirements of sustainable development is an urgent issue. From the theory of system metabolism and emergy accounting method, this study classified the government funds for poverty alleviation measures as import resources, and analyzed the metabolic structure, efficiency, and the rural development factors of Chehe Village before and after poverty alleviation measures are carried out (the year of 2012 and 2019) to verify whether the new model was sustainable. According to the results of this study, the new management model of Chehe Village declined the rural system sustainability with the emergy sustainability index decreasing from 1.96 in 2012 to 0.32 in 2019. With the development of economy, the system metabolic efficiency of Chehe Village promoted and the metabolic structure became more reasonable manifesting in the decline of emergy use per unit GDP and the increase of emergy exchange rate. Moreover, production and livelihood had been highly valued in Chehe Village. In conclusion, it is feasible to add countermeasures of poverty alleviation and rural revitalization into the village system metabolism. The new management model of Chehe Village needs to change exogenous force into endogenous force to meet the requirements of rural sustainable development.
Circuit Parameter Range of Photovoltaic System to Correctly Use the MPP Linear Model of Photovoltaic Cell
Authors: Li Shaowu
Published: July 2021

The real-time linearization of a photovoltaic (PV) cell has been implemented well by the proposition of two maximum power point (MPP) linear models (MPP Thevenin cell model and MPP Norton cell model). However, there is no work to specially analyze the circuit parameter range (CPR) to correctly use them, which seriously impedes the development of the linear control theory involving them. To deal with this problem, in this paper, PV systems with three usual outputs are analyzed and the expressions of their CPR are proposed under ideal conditions. Meanwhile, these expressions are improved to match the practical application. They disclose the relationships between load (or bus voltage) and model parameters of the MPP Thevenin cell model (MPP-TCM) when the MPP of PV system always exists. They also reveal the constraints of load (or bus voltage) when the MPP-TCM is always available. Finally, by some simulation experiments, the accuracy of the expressions of the CPR is verified, the regular patterns of the CPR changing with weather are disclosed, and the comparison of the CPR for different PV systems are made. In this work, the relationships between MPP-TCM and circuit parameters are successfully found, disclosing the constraints among parameters when the MPP-TCM is used to implement the overall linearization of a PV system.
Assessment of Outdoor Lighting: Methods for Capturing the Pedestrian Experience in the Field
Authors: Rahm Johan , Johansson Maria
Published: July 2021

This study assessed whether methods for capturing the pedestrian experience of outdoor lighting, previously evaluated in a full-scale laboratory, were applicable in a real-world setting. It applied an approach capturing the human response to outdoor lighting in a systematic way, by assessing perception, evaluation and behaviour in the lit environment. The study involved 81 participants from two age groups (Young—n: 48, mean age: 26, 63% women; Elderly—n: 33, mean age: 69, 67% women) and was carried out on a pedestrian path in a park in the centre of Malmö, Sweden, in the evenings during wintertime. Two LED lighting applications, differing in light distribution, uniformity and horizontal illuminance, were presented, and the pedestrians’ perception (facial expression recognition and sign reading), evaluation (arousal, valence and perceived outdoor lighting quality) and behaviour (pedestrian flow) were assessed. The results from the perceptual tasks differed significantly between the lighting applications, in favour of the lighting application with greatest uniformity and horizontal illuminance. There was a significant difference in sign reading distance between the two age groups. The methods applied in this study are feasible to administer and could be used to assess lighting solutions in order to capture the needs of vulnerable groups.