bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Limosilactobacillus reuteri Attenuates Atopic Dermatitis via Changes in Gut Bacteria and Indole Derivatives from Tryptophan Metabolism
Authors: Fang Zhifeng , Pan Tong , Wang Hongchao , Zhu Jinlin , Zhang Hao , Zhao Jianxin , Chen Wei , Lu Wenwei
Published: July 2022

Gut bacteria are closely associated with the development of atopic dermatitis (AD) due to their immunoregulatory function. Indole derivatives, produced by gut bacteria metabolizing tryptophan, are ligands to activate the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), which plays a critical role in attenuating AD symptoms. Limosilactobacillus reuteri, a producer of indole derivatives, regulates mucosal immunity via activating the AHR signaling pathway. However, the effective substance and mechanism of L. reuteri in the amelioration of AD remain to be elucidated. In this research, we found that L. reuteri DYNDL22M62 significantly improved AD-like symptoms in mice by suppressing IgE levels and the expressions of thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP), IL-4, and IL-5. L. reuteri DYNDL22M62 induced an increase in the production of indole lactic acid (ILA) and indole propionic acid (IPA) via targeted tryptophan metabolic analysis and the expression of AHR in mice. Furthermore, L. reuteri DYNDL22M62 increased the proportions of Romboutsia and Ruminococcaceae NK4A214 group, which were positively related to ILA, but decreased Dubosiella, which was negatively related to IPA. Collectively, L. reuteri DYNDL22M62 with the role of modulating gut bacteria and the production of indole derivatives may attenuate AD via activating AHR in mice.
PLG-007 and Its Active Component Galactomannan-α Competitively Inhibit Enzymes That Hydrolyze Glucose Polymers
Authors: Miller Michelle C. , Dregni Aurelio J. , Platt David , Mayo Kevin H.
Published: July 2022

PLG-007 is a developmental therapeutic compound that has been clinically shown to reduce the magnitude of postprandial glucose excursions and has the potential to be an adjunct treatment for diabetes and inflammatory-related diseases. The present investigation is aimed at understanding the molecular mechanism of action of PLG-007 and its galactomannan (GM) components GMα and GMβ (in a 1:4 mass ratio, respectively) on enzyme (i.e., α-amylase, maltase, and lactase) hydrolysis of glucose polymers using colorimetric assays and 13C HSQC NMR spectroscopy. The starch–iodine colorimetric assay indicated that GMα strongly inhibits α-amylase activity (~16-fold more potent than GMβ) and thus is the primary active component in PLG-007. 13C HSQC experiments, used to follow the α-amylase-mediated hydrolysis of starch and amylopectin, further demonstrate the α-amylase inhibitory effect of GMα via α-amylase-mediated hydrolysis of starch and amylopectin. Maltohexaose (MT6) was used to circumvent the relative kinetic complexity of starch/amylopectin degradation in Michaelis–Menten analyses. The Vmax, KM, and Ki parameters were determined using peak volume integrals from 13C HSQC NMR spectra. In the presence of PLG-007 with α-amylase and MT6, the increase in KM from 7.5 ± 0.6 × 10−3 M (control) to 21 ± 1.4 × 10−3 M, with no significant change in Vmax, indicates that PLG-007 is a competitive inhibitor of α-amylase. Using KM values, Ki was estimated to be 2.1 ± 0.9 × 10−6 M; however, the microscopic Ki value of GMα is expected to be larger as the binding stoichiometry is likely to be greater than 1:1. Colorimetric assays also demonstrated that GMα is a competitive inhibitor of the enzymes maltase and lactase. Overall, this study provides insight as to how PLG-007 (GMα) is likely to function in vivo.
The β2-Subunit (AMOG) of Human Na+, K+-ATPase Is a Homophilic Adhesion Molecule
Authors: Roldán María Luisa , Ramírez-Salinas Gema Lizbeth , Martinez-Archundia Marlet , Cuellar-Perez Francisco , Vilchis-Nestor Claudia Andrea , Cancino-Diaz Juan Carlos , Shoshani Liora
Published: July 2022

The β2 subunit of Na+, K+-ATPase was originally identified as the adhesion molecule on glia (AMOG) that mediates the adhesion of astrocytes to neurons in the central nervous system and that is implicated in the regulation of neurite outgrowth and neuronal migration. While β1 isoform have been shown to trans-interact in a species-specific mode with the β1 subunit on the epithelial neighboring cell, the β2 subunit has been shown to act as a recognition molecule on the glia. Nevertheless, none of the works have identified the binding partner of β2 or described its adhesion mechanism. Until now, the interactions pronounced for β2/AMOG are heterophilic cis-interactions. In the present report we designed experiments that would clarify whether β2 is a cell–cell homophilic adhesion molecule. For this purpose, we performed protein docking analysis, cell–cell aggregation, and protein–protein interaction assays. We observed that the glycosylated extracellular domain of β2/AMOG can make an energetically stable trans-interacting dimer. We show that CHO (Chinese Hamster Ovary) fibroblasts transfected with the human β2 subunit become more adhesive and make large aggregates. The treatment with Tunicamycin in vivo reduced cell aggregation, suggesting the participation of N-glycans in that process. Protein–protein interaction assay in vivo with MDCK (Madin-Darby canine kidney) or CHO cells expressing a recombinant β2 subunit show that the β2 subunits on the cell surface of the transfected cell lines interact with each other. Overall, our results suggest that the human β2 subunit can form trans-dimers between neighboring cells when expressed in non-astrocytic cells, such as fibroblasts (CHO) and epithelial cells (MDCK).
Towards Accurate and Precise Image-Guided Radiotherapy: Clinical Applications of the MR-Linac
Authors: Randall James W. , Rammohan Nikhil , Das Indra J. , Yadav Poonam
Published: July 2022

Advances in image-guided radiotherapy have brought about improved oncologic outcomes and reduced toxicity. The next generation of image guidance in the form of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) will improve visualization of tumors and make radiation treatment adaptation possible. In this review, we discuss the role that MRI plays in radiotherapy, with a focus on the integration of MRI with the linear accelerator. The MR linear accelerator (MR-Linac) will provide real-time imaging, help assess motion management, and provide online adaptive therapy. Potential advantages and the current state of these MR-Linacs are highlighted, with a discussion of six different clinical scenarios, leading into a discussion on the future role of these machines in clinical workflows.
Antibodies to the Spike Protein Receptor-Binding Domain of SARS-CoV-2 at 4–13 Months after COVID-19
Authors: Kolosova Evgeniia A. , Shaprova Olga N. , Shanshin Daniil V. , Nesmeyanova Valentina S. , Merkuleva Iuliia A. , Belenkaya Svetlana V. , Isaeva Anastasiya A. , Nikitin Artem O. , Volosnikova Ekaterina A. , Nikulina Yuliya A. , Nikonorova Marina A. , Shcherbakov Dmitry N. , Elchaninova Svetlana A.
Published: July 2022

Identification of factors behind the level and duration of persistence of the SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in the blood is assumed to set the direction for studying humoral immunity mechanisms against COVID-19, optimizing the strategy for vaccine use, antibody-based drugs, and epidemiological control of COVID-19. Objective: This study aimed to study the relationship between clinical and demographic characteristics and the level of IgG antibodies to the RBD of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein after COVID-19 in the long term. Residents of the Altai Region of Western Siberia of Russia, Caucasians, aged from 27 to 93 years (median 53.0 years), who recovered from COVID-19 between May 2020 and February 2021 (n = 44) took part in this prospective observational study. The titer of IgG antibodies to the RBD of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein was measured repeatedly in the blood at 4–13 months from the beginning of the clinical manifestation of COVID-19 via the method of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The antibody titer positively correlated with age (p = 0.013) and COVID-19 pneumonia (p = 0.002) at 20–40 and 20–24 weeks from the onset of COVID-19 symptoms, respectively. Age was positively associated with antibody titer regardless of history of COVID-19 pneumonia (beta regression coefficient p = 0.009). The antibody titer decreased in 15 (34.1%) patients, increased in 10 (22.7%) patients, and did not change in 19 (43.2%) patients from the baseline to 48–49 weeks from the onset of COVID-19 symptoms, with seropositivity persisting in all patients. Age and COVID-19 pneumonia are possibly associated with higher IgG antibodies to the spike protein RBD of SARS-CoV-2 following COVID-19 in the long term. Divergent trends of anti-RBD IgG levels in adults illustrate inter-individual differences at 4–13 months from the onset of COVID-19 symptoms.
Multiple Papillomas of the Breast: A Review of Current Evidence and Challenges
Authors: Rella Rossella , Romanucci Giovanna , Arciuolo Damiano , Scaldaferri Assunta , Bufi Enida , Croce Sebastiano , Caulo Andrea , Tommasini Oscar
Published: July 2022

Objectives: To conduct a review of evidence about papillomatosis/multiple papillomas (MP), its clinical and imaging presentation, the association between MP and malignancy and the management strategies that follow. Methods: A computerized literature search using PubMed and Google Scholar was performed up to January 2021 with the following search strategy: “papilloma” OR “intraductal papilloma” OR “intraductal papillary neoplasms” OR “papillomatosis” OR “papillary lesion” AND “breast”. Two authors independently conducted a search, screening and extraction of data from the eligible studies. Results: Of the 1881 articles identified, 29 articles met the inclusion criteria. The most common breast imaging methods (mammography, ultrasound) showed few specific signs of MP, and evidence about magnetic resonance imaging were weak. Regarding the association between MP and malignancy, the risk of underestimation to biopsy methods and the frequent coexistence of MP and other high-risk lesions needs to be taken into consideration. Results about the risk of developing breast carcinoma of patients affected by MP were inconsistent. Conclusions: MP is a challenge for all breast specialists, and familiarity with its features is required to make the correct diagnosis. Further studies are needed to evaluate the factors to take into account to plan management, time of follow-up and imaging methods.
SASD Modeling Using an ANFIS to Prevent the Collision of MASS in Restricted Areas
Authors: Lee Hee-Jin , Park Deuk-Jin
Published: July 2022

This study aimed to present the criteria for the collision avoidance of maritime autonomous surface ships (MASS) in restricted areas. The criteria were presented via ship domains, and a seafarers’ awareness-based ship domain (SASD) that dynamically changes the existing SASD according to the external environment was used to develop a new domain model. For application, we have converged an adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system with the existing model. The proposed SASD was applied to an actual marine restricted area and compared with automatic identification system (AIS) based ship domain models. Consequently, although there was a slight difference depending on the restricted area and domain design method applied, the SASD, (i.e., the minor axis of the elliptical domain) and the AIS-based ship domain were similar. Cross-validation of the seafarers’ awareness-based ship domain and the AIS-based ship domain could propose a reference lateral side passing distance for MASS in restricted areas. However, the major axis of the ellipse should be further studied since the domain design method differs between models.
Comparison of Immunodiagnostic Assays for the Rapid Diagnosis of Coccidioidomycosis in Dogs
Authors: Caceres Diego H. , Lindsley Mark D.
Published: July 2022

Coccidioidomycosis is a disease caused by the dimorphic fungi Coccidioides spp., which affects humans and a variety of animal species, including domestic dogs. In dogs, accurate diagnosis could provide a substantial improvement on the quality of canine life, as well as an advancement in the mapping of regions endemic for coccidioidomycosis. The purpose of this study was to compare immunodiagnostic assays for anti-Coccidioides antibody (Ab) detection in dogs’ serum. Three commercially available immunodiagnostic assays (IMMY®; Norman, OK, USA) were evaluated, including the sōna Coccidioides Ab Lateral Flow Assay (LFA), Coccidioides IDCF immunodiffusion assay (IDCF), and the Clarus Coccidioides Ab Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA). Assays were evaluated using 98 dog serum samples: 29 from dogs with coccidioidomycosis, 15 from dogs diagnosed with histoplasmosis, 10 from dogs diagnosed with blastomycosis, and 44 from dogs without a fungal disease. Using specimens from dogs with coccidioidomycosis, the IDCF had an accuracy of 92% (95% confidence interval [95% CI] = 85–96%), the EIA had an accuracy of 91% (95% CI = 83–96%), and the LFA displayed an accuracy of 82% (95% CI = 73–89%). Using Kappa analysis, the agreement between LFA and EIA was 0.59 (95% CI = 0.42–0.75), that between LFA and IDCF was 0.64 (95% CI = 0.48–0.79), and that between EIA and IDCF was 0.79 (95% CI = 0.64–0.90). Most cross-reactions were observed in dogs with histoplasmosis. Compared with EIA and IDCF, the LFA requires substantially less laboratory equipment and infrastructure and rapidly produces results, offering a substantial improvement for the initial screening of coccidioidomycosis in dogs.
Treatment of Mantle Cell Lymphoma in the Frontline Setting: Are We Ready for a Risk-Adapted Approach?
Authors: Hammons Lindsay , Fenske Timothy S.
Published: July 2022

Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL), a type of B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma characterized by the t(11;14)(q13q32) translocation, is a clinically heterogenous disease which can range from indolent to highly aggressive. Numerous prognostic factors have been identified, including blastoid histology, the Mantle Cell Lymphoma International Prognostic Index (MIPI) score, high proliferation index, p53 deletions and/or mutations, complex karyotype, minimal residual disease, and several others. However, using these prognostic factors to guide treatment selection has largely remained elusive. Given the heterogeneous behavior of this disease and varying patient characteristics, we suggest that the time has come for a more risk-adapted approach to this disease. In this article, we review the numerous prognostic factors that have been described for MCL, both at the time of diagnosis and following first-line treatment. We then propose a risk-adapted approach to first-line therapy for MCL, which would reserve intensive therapy for the highest risk patients and spare others excessive toxicity.
Social Capital, Crop Specialization and Rural Industry Development—Taking the Grape Industry in Ningling County of China as an Example
Authors: Wu Nalin , Li Erling , Su Yihan , Li Li , Wang Li
Published: July 2022

Village-level social capital is an important factor to promote rural revitalization, but it is often ignored by existing researches. Based on the field investigation on 357 grape industry villages in Ningling County of Henan Province, decomposed village social capital into three dimensions (social network, social norm and social trust), this paper aims to discuss how village social capital influences rural industry development by promoting crop specialization. Results showed that the social network affects the transmission of grape planting information and technology. The richer the social network, the faster the diffusion of grape planting and the faster the realization of crop specialization. However, different types of social network play different roles. Social norms affect whether villages participate in grape production decisions. Proper risk awareness and efficient and reliable social organization services can help village farmers participate in grape planting and improve the level of crop specialization. Social trust affects the scale and duration of grape planting in a village; that is, the higher the level of social trusts, the higher the degree of crop specialization. In short, social capital can effectively promote the rapid cultivation of superior crops, enhance the specialization level of agricultural production and drive the coordinated development of upstream and downstream industries, thereby promoting the development of rural industries. This study emphasizes that, in the process of rural revitalization, developing countries should consider the social environments of different regions, fully mobilize the power of local social capital and develop reasonable and feasible technology popularization, adoption and implementation programs.
Fly Ash from Lignite Combustion as a Filler for Rubber Mixes. Part I: Physical Valorization of Fly Ash
Authors: Orczykowski Wojciech , Bieliński Dariusz M. , Anyszka Rafał , Pędzich Zbigniew
Published: July 2022

The potential use of fly ash (FA) originating from lignite combustion at the Belchatow Power Plant (Poland) as filler for rubber mixes was evaluated. Samples of fly ash collected from heaps created in different years were compared according to their chemical and phase composition, particle size distribution, and morphology. The sieve fractionation of fly ash results in size fractions of different chemical structures, phase compositions, and morphologies, reflected in changes to their specific surface area, surface energy, and activity in rubber mixes. Fractionation turned out to be more effective than grinding from the point of view of using ash as a filler for rubber mixes, because it results in higher specific surface area (SSA) and chemical composition differentiation. Carbon black can be replaced by up to 40% by weight with the fly ash fraction (FFA) of dimensions below 125 µm, without any significant deterioration in the mechanical properties of styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) vulcanizates filled with 50 phr of active carbon black (N 220). Despite the larger fly ash fraction of grain dimensions in the range between 125 and 250 µm presenting the highest specific surface area, the particle size adversely affects its strengthening effect in rubber. Taking into account all the tests performed, ranging from morphology, Payne effect and bound rubber, to mechanical and abrasion tests, the highest potential effectivity is presented by a sample containing 30 phr of N 220 and 20 phr of FFA of grain sizes from 63 to 125 µm. The obtained results indicate that fractionation seems to be an effective physical method of fly ash valorization.
Impact of Cerium Oxide on the State and Hydrogenation Activity of Ruthenium Species Incorporated on Mesocellular Foam Silica
Authors: Grzelak Kalina , Trejda Maciej , Gurgul Jacek
Published: July 2022

Herein, the impact of cerium species loaded on mesoporous silica of MCF type on the state and catalytic activity of ruthenium species was studied. Up to 20 wt.% of cerium was incorporated on the silica surface, whereas the same 1 wt.% of Ru loading was applied. The samples prepared were examined by low temperature N2 adsorption/desorption, XRD, XRF, ICP-OES, XPS and H2 chemisorption. The catalytic activity of the materials obtained was investigated in the transformation of levulinic acid to γ-valerolactone. It was documented that the presence of Ce favored an increase in the dispersion of ruthenium species, which had a positive impact on the hydrogenation activity for up to 10 wt.% of Ce. Nevertheless, the highest cerium loading had a negative influence on the textural parameters of the support.
Vibration-Based Fatigue Analysis of Octet-Truss Lattice Infill Blades for Utilization in Turbine Rotors
Authors: Hussain Sajjad , Ghopa Wan Aizon W. , Singh S. S. K. , Azman Abdul Hadi , Abdullah Shahrum , Harun Zambri , Hishamuddin Hawa
Published: July 2022

Vibration fatigue characteristics are critical for rotating machinery components such as turbine rotor blades. Lattice structures are gaining popularity in engineering applications due to their unique ability to reduce weight and improve the mechanical properties. This study is an experimental investigation of octet-truss lattice structure utilization in turbine rotor blades for weight reduction and to improve vibration fatigue characteristics. One completely solid and three lattice infilled blades with variable strut thickness were manufactured via additive manufacturing. Both free and forced experimental vibration analyses were performed on the blades to investigate their modal and vibration fatigue characteristics. The blades were subjected to random vibration using a vibration shaker. The response was measured using a triaxial accelerometer in terms of vibration acceleration time histories in the X, Y, and Z directions. Results indicate a weight reduction of up to 24.91% and enhancement in the first natural frequency of up to 5.29% were achieved using lattice infilled blades. The fatigue life of the blades was investigated using three frequency domain approaches, namely, Lalanne, Dirlik and narrow band. The fatigue life results indicate that the 0.25 mm lattice blade exhibits the highest fatigue life, while the solid blade exhibits the lowest fatigue life of all four blades. The fatigue life of the 0.25 mm lattice blade was 1822-, 1802-, and 1819- fold higher compared to that of the solid blade, using the Lalanne, Dirlik, and narrow-band approaches, respectively. These results can serve as the first step towards the utilization of lattice structures in turbine blades, with thermal analysis as the next step. Therefore, apart from being light weight, the octet-truss lattice infilled blades exhibited superior vibration fatigue characteristics to vibration loads, thereby making them a potential replacement for solid blades in turbine rotors.
RNGSGLR: Generalization of the Context-Aware Scanning Architecture for All Character-Level Context-Free Languages
Authors: Leber Žiga , Črepinšek Matej , Mernik Marjan , Kosar Tomaž
Published: July 2022

The limitations of traditional parsing architecture are well known. Even when paired with parsing methods that accept all context-free grammars (CFGs), the resulting combination for any given CFG accepts only a limited subset of corresponding character-level context-free languages (CFL). We present a novel scanner-based architecture that for any given CFG accepts all corresponding character-level CFLs. It can directly parse all possible specifications consisting of a grammar and regular definitions. The architecture is based on right-nulled generalized LR (RNGLR) parsing and is a generalization of the context-aware scanning architecture. Our architecture does not require any disambiguation rules to resolve lexical conflicts, it conceptually has an unbounded parser and scanner lookahead and it is streaming. The added robustness and flexibility allow for easier grammar development and modification.
The Identification of Causal Mechanisms in Sustainable Urban Transitions—A Systematic Approach to Case Selection
Authors: Medina-Molina Cayetano , Pérez-Macías Noemí
Published: July 2022

Cities around the world are betting on sustainable transitions as a formula to respond to some of the challenges they face. Within transitions, the acceleration phase has been little studied, perhaps because it relies on the mechanisms linked to the causes that lead to the desired effects. In the study of sustainable transitions, Qualitative Comparative Analysis is used to identify the causal conditions that generate the outcomes. Identifying causal mechanisms requires complementing this analysis with process tracing, the Set Theoretic Multi-Method Research (SMMR). Although previous work has complemented QCA analysis with process tracing, it did not apply a systematic approach to case selection. So, the research question addressed is: can we systematically select cases to apply process tracing in the explanation of sustainable urban transitions? The present work, by applying a systematic approach in the selection of the cases to which to apply process tracing, verifies the existence of a causal mechanism among the causal conditions that explains the denial of cities’ readiness to implement mobility innovations that can be extrapolated. No such mechanism exists for the analysis of readiness. Thus, the fundamental role played by lock-in mechanisms in the maintenance of the existing regimes in sustainable transitions is confirmed.
Convergence of a Class of Delayed Neural Networks with Real Memristor Devices
Authors: Di Marco Mauro , Forti Mauro , Moretti Riccardo , Pancioni Luca , Innocenti Giacomo , Tesi Alberto
Published: July 2022

Neural networks with memristors are promising candidates to overcome the limitations of traditional von Neumann machines via the implementation of novel analog and parallel computation schemes based on the in-memory computing principle. Of special importance are neural networks with generic or extended memristor models that are suited to accurately describe real memristor devices. The manuscript considers a general class of delayed neural networks where the memristors obey the relevant and widely used generic memristor model, the voltage threshold adaptive memristor (VTEAM) model. Due to physical limitations, the memristor state variables evolve in a closed compact subset of the space; therefore, the network can be mathematically described by a special class of differential inclusions named differential variational inequalities (DVIs). By using the theory of DVI, and the Lyapunov approach, the paper proves some fundamental results on convergence of solutions toward equilibrium points, a dynamic property that is extremely useful in neural network applications to content addressable memories and signal-processing in real time. The conditions for convergence, which hold in the general nonsymmetric case and for any constant delay, are given in the form of a linear matrix inequality (LMI) and can be readily checked numerically. To the authors knowledge, the obtained results are the only ones available in the literature on the convergence of neural networks with real generic memristors.
Mechanical Model and FEM Simulations for Efforts on Biceps and Triceps Muscles under Vertical Load: Mathematical Formulation of Results
Authors: Lechosa Urquijo Emilio , Blaya Haro Fernando , Cano-Moreno Juan David , D’Amato Roberto , Juanes Méndez Juan Antonio
Published: July 2022

Although isometric contractions in human muscles have been analyzed several times, there are no FEA models that allow us to use the same modeled joint (the elbow under our case) in different conditions. Most elbow joints use 3D elements for meshing. Representing the muscles in the joint is quite useful when the study is focused on the muscle itself, knowing stress distribution on muscle, and checking damage in muscle in a detailed manner (tendon–muscle insertion, for example). However, this technique is not useful for studying muscle behavior at different positions of the joint. This study, based on the mechanical model of the elbow joint, proposes a methodology for modelling muscles that will be studied in different positions by meshing them with 1D elements. Furthermore, the methodology allows us to calculate biceps and triceps efforts under load for different angles of elbow joint aperture. The simulation results have been mathematically modelled to obtain general formulations for these efforts, depending on the load and the aperture angle.
Near-Record Values in Discrete Random Sequences
Authors: Lafuente Miguel , Gouet Raúl , López F. Javier , Sanz Gerardo
Published: July 2022

Given a sequence (Xn) of random variables, Xn is said to be a near-record if Xn∈(Mn−1−a,Mn−1], where Mn=max{X1,…,Xn} and a>0 is a parameter. We investigate the point process η on [0,∞) of near-record values from an integer-valued, independent and identically distributed sequence, showing that it is a Bernoulli cluster process. We derive the probability generating functional of η and formulas for the expectation, variance and covariance of the counting variables η(A),A⊂[0,∞). We also derive the strong convergence and asymptotic normality of η([0,n]), as n→∞, under mild regularity conditions on the distribution of the observations. For heavy-tailed distributions, with square-summable hazard rates, we prove that η([0,n]) grows to a finite random limit and compute its probability generating function. We present examples of the application of our results to particular distributions, covering a wide range of behaviours in terms of their right tails.
Evaluation of Infinite Series by Integrals
Authors: Li Chunli , Chu Wenchang
Published: July 2022

We examine a large class of infinite triple series and establish a general summation formula. This is done by expressing the triple series in terms of definite integrals involving arctangent function that are evaluated in turn in closed forms. Numerous explicit formulae are tabulated for the triple series whose values result in elegant expressions as π, ln2 and the Catalan constant G.
Common Fixed Points Theorems for Self-Mappings in Menger PM-Spaces
Authors: Nikolić Rale M. , Pant Rajandra P. , Ristić Vladimir T. , Šebeković Aleksandar
Published: July 2022

The purpose of this paper is to prove that orbital continuity for a pair of self-mappings is a necessary and sufficient condition for the existence and uniqueness of a common fixed point for these mappings defined on Menger PM-spaces with a nonlinear contractive condition. The main results are obtained using the notion of R-weakly commutativity of type Af (or type Ag). These results generalize some known results.
Substantial Proton Ion Conduction in Methylcellulose/Pectin/Ammonium Chloride Based Solid Nanocomposite Polymer Electrolytes: Effect of ZnO Nanofiller
Authors: Dennis John Ojur , Adam Abdullahi Abbas , Ali M. K. M. , Soleimani Hassan , Shukur Muhammad Fadhlullah Bin Abd. , Ibnaouf K. H. , Aldaghri O. , Eisa M. H. , Ibrahem M. A. , Bashir Abdulkadir Abubakar , Cyriac Vipin
Published: July 2022

In this research, nanocomposite solid polymer electrolytes (NCSPEs) comprising methylcellulose/pectin (MC/PC) blend as host polymer, ammonium chloride (NH4Cl) as an ion source, and zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) as nanofillers were synthesized via a solution cast methodology. Techniques such as Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), electrical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and linear sweep voltammetry (LSV) were employed to characterize the electrolyte. FTIR confirmed that the polymers, NH4Cl salt, and ZnO nanofiller interact with one another appreciably. EIS demonstrated the feasibility of achieving a conductivity of 3.13 × 10−4 Scm−1 for the optimum electrolyte at room temperature. Using the dielectric formalism technique, the dielectric properties, energy modulus, and relaxation time of NH4Cl in MC/PC/NH4Cl and MC/PC/NH4Cl/ZnO systems were determined. The contribution of chain dynamics and ion mobility was acknowledged by the presence of a peak in the imaginary portion of the modulus study. The LSV measurement yielded 4.55 V for the comparatively highest conductivity NCSPE.
Comments on the Mechanism of Detachment in Creep of Dispersion Strengthened Alloys at High Temperatures
Authors: Kassner Michael E. , Oros Theophil , Kumar Praveen
Published: July 2022

This short article comments on the interactions between incoherent hard particles and dislocations, in dispersion-strengthened alloys, at elevated temperatures, which is the basis for their strength at high temperatures. We briefly review the details of the detachment model, discuss the limitations of the models and propose a new model for detachment. The purpose of this communication is to finally offer the creep research community a detailed mechanism for the dislocation detachment from hard particles, which has not yet been formulated.
On-Chip Temperature Compensation for Small-Signal Gain Variation Reduction
Authors: Zhou Shaohua , Wei Shizhe , Wang Jian
Published: July 2022

Power amplifier (PA) specifications are closely related to changes in temperature; thus, the small-signal gain (S21) of PA decreases with the temperature increase. To compensate for the degradation caused by the decrease in S21, we present a compensation circuit that consists of two diodes and four resistors. At the same time, a differential stacked millimeter-wave wideband PA was designed and implemented based on this compensation circuit and 55 nm CMOS process. The post-layout simulation results showed that the fluctuation of S21 reduced from 2.4 dB to 0.1 dB in the frequency range of 25−40 GHz over the temperature range of −40 °C to 125 °C. Furthermore, the proposed on-chip temperature compensation circuit also applies to multi-stage cascaded microwave/mm-wave power amplifiers.
Resistome Analysis of Campylobacter jejuni Strains Isolated from Human Stool and Primary Sterile Samples in Croatia
Authors: Šoprek Silvija , Duvnjak Sanja , Kompes Gordan , Jurinović Luka , Tambić Andrašević Arjana
Published: July 2022

Campylobacteriosis represents a global health challenge due to continuously increasing trends of antimicrobial resistance in Campylobacter jejuni. C. jejuni can sometimes cause life-threatening and severe systematic infections (bacteremia, meningitis, and other extraintestinal infections) with very few antibiotics left as treatment options. Bearing in mind that C. jejuni is the predominant species in humans, in this paper, we present a study of the C. jejuni differences in antimicrobial resistance and genotype distribution between strains isolated from stool and primary sterile sites. We compared the genomic data obtained through whole genome sequencing (WGS) and phenotypic susceptibility data of C. jejuni strains. Once antimicrobial susceptibility testing of C. jejuni strains was carried out by the broth microdilution method for six of interest, results were compared to the identified genotypic determinants derived from WGS. The high rate of resistance to fluoroquinolones presented in this study is in accordance with national surveillance data. The proportion of strains with acquired resistance was 71% for ciprofloxacin and 20% for tetracycline. When invasive isolates were analysed separately, 40% exhibited MIC values of ciprofloxacin higher than the ECOFFs, suggesting a lower flouroquinolone resistance rate in invasive isolates. All isolates demonstrated wilde-type phenotype for chloramphenicol, erythromycin, gentamicin, and ertapenem. A special focus and review in this study was performed on a group of C.jejuni strains found in primary sterile samples. Apart from demonstrating a lower resistance rate, these isolates seem genetically more uniform, showing epidemiologically more homogenous patterns, which cluster to several clonal complexes, with CC49 being the most represented clonal complex.
Performance Improvement of NIR Spectral Pattern Recognition from Three Compensation Models’ Voting and Multi-Modal Fusion
Authors: Ye Niangen , Zhong Sheng , Fang Zile , Gao Haijun , Du Zhihua , Chen Heng , Yuan Lu , Pan Tao
Published: July 2022

Inspired by aquaphotomics, the optical path length of measurement was regarded as a perturbation factor. Near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy with multi-measurement modals was applied to the discriminant analysis of three categories of drinking water. Moving window-k nearest neighbor (MW-kNN) and Norris derivative filter were used for modeling and optimization. Drawing on the idea of game theory, the strategy for two-category priority compensation and three-model voting with multi-modal fusion was proposed. Moving window correlation coefficient (MWCC), inter-category and intra-category MWCC spectra, and k-shortest distances plotting with MW-kNN were proposed to evaluate weak differences between two spectral populations. For three measurement modals (1 mm, 4 mm, and 10 mm), the optimal MW-kNN models, and two-category priority compensation models were determined. The joint models for three compensation models’ voting were established. Comprehensive discrimination effects of joint models were better than their sub-models; multi-modal fusion was better than single-modal fusion. The best joint model was the dual-modal fusion of compensation models of one- and two-category priority (1 mm), one- and three-category priority (10 mm), and two- and three-category priority (1 mm), validation’s total recognition accuracy rate reached 95.5%. It fused long-wave models (1 mm, containing 1450 nm) and short-wave models (10 mm, containing 974 nm). The results showed that compensation models’ voting and multi-modal fusion can effectively improve the performance of NIR spectral pattern recognition.
Performance and Information Leakage in Splitfed Learning and Multi-Head Split Learning in Healthcare Data and Beyond
Authors: Joshi Praveen , Thapa Chandra , Camtepe Seyit , Hasanuzzaman Mohammed , Scully Ted , Afli Haithem
Published: July 2022

Machine learning (ML) in healthcare data analytics is attracting much attention because of the unprecedented power of ML to extract knowledge that improves the decision-making process. At the same time, laws and ethics codes drafted by countries to govern healthcare data are becoming stringent. Although healthcare practitioners are struggling with an enforced governance framework, we see the emergence of distributed learning-based frameworks disrupting traditional-ML-model development. Splitfed learning (SFL) is one of the recent developments in distributed machine learning that empowers healthcare practitioners to preserve the privacy of input data and enables them to train ML models. However, SFL has some extra communication and computation overheads at the client side due to the requirement of client-side model synchronization. For a resource-constrained client side (hospitals with limited computational powers), removing such conditions is required to gain efficiency in the learning. In this regard, this paper studies SFL without client-side model synchronization. The resulting architecture is known as multi-head split learning (MHSL). At the same time, it is important to investigate information leakage, which indicates how much information is gained by the server related to the raw data directly out of the smashed data—the output of the client-side model portion—passed to it by the client. Our empirical studies examine the Resnet-18 and Conv1-D architecture model on the ECG and HAM-10000 datasets under IID data distribution. The results find that SFL provides 1.81% and 2.36% better accuracy than MHSL on the ECG and HAM-10000 datasets, respectively (for cut-layer value set to 1). Analysis of experimentation with various client-side model portions demonstrates that it has an impact on the overall performance. With an increase in layers in the client-side model portion, SFL performance improves while MHSL performance degrades. Experiment results also demonstrate that information leakage provided by mutual information score values in SFL is more than MHSL for ECG and HAM-10000 datasets by 2×10−5 and 4×10−3, respectively.
Boosting the Electrocatalytic CO2 Reduction Reaction by Nanostructured Metal Materials via Defects Engineering
Authors: Zhao Shuangyang , Liu Aihua , Li Yonghe , Wen Yanyan , Gao Xiaoqian , Chen Qiaoli
Published: July 2022

Electrocatalytic CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) is one of the most effective methods to convert CO2 into useful fuels. Introducing defects into metal nanostructures can effectively improve the catalytic activity and selectivity towards CO2RR. This review provides the recent progress on the use of metal nanomaterials with defects towards electrochemical CO2RR and defects engineering methods. Accompanying these ideas, we introduce the structure of defects characterized by electron microscopy techniques as the characterization and analysis of defects are relatively difficult. Subsequently, we present the intrinsic mechanism of how the defects affect CO2RR performance. Finally, to promote a wide and deep study in this field, the perspectives and challenges concerning defects engineering in metal nanomaterials towards CO2RR are put forward.
Rheology of Emulsions Thickened by Starch Nanoparticles
Authors: Pal Anuva , Pal Rajinder
Published: July 2022

The rheology of oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions thickened by starch nanoparticles is investigated here. The starch nanoparticle concentration is varied from 0 to 25 wt% based on the matrix aqueous phase. The oil concentration is varied from 0 to 65 wt%. At a given nanoparticle concentration, the emulsions are generally Newtonian at low oil concentrations. The emulsions become shear-thinning at high oil concentrations. The increase in nanoparticle concentration at a given oil concentration increases the consistency of the emulsion and enhances the shear-thinning behavior of emulsion. The rheological behavior of emulsions is described reasonably well by a power-law model. The consistency index of the emulsion increases with the increases in nanoparticle and oil concentrations. The flow behavior index of emulsion decreases with the increases in nanoparticle and oil concentrations, indicating an increase in the degree of shear-thinning in emulsion.
Ag Nanoparticles Decorated ZnO Nanorods as Multifunctional SERS Substrates for Ultrasensitive Detection and Catalytic Degradation of Rhodamine B
Authors: Chen Xingang , Zhu Lei , Ma Zhipeng , Wang Meilin , Zhao Rui , Zou Yueyue , Fan Yijie
Published: July 2022

Industrial wastewater containing large amounts of organic pollutants is a severe threat to the environment and human health. Thus, the rapid detection and removal of these pollutants from wastewater are essential to protect public health and the ecological environment. In this study, a multifunctional and reusable surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrate by growing Ag nanoparticles (NPs) on ZnO nanorods (NRs) was produced for detecting and degrading Rhodamine B (RhB) dye. The ZnO/Ag substrate exhibited excellent sensitivity, and the limit of detection (LOD) for RhB was as low as 10−11 M. Furthermore, the SERS substrate could efficiently degrade RhB, with a degradation efficiency of nearly 100% within 150 min. Moreover, it retained good SERS activity after multiple repeated uses. The interaction between Ag NPs, ZnO, and RhB was further investigated, and the mechanism of SERS and photocatalysis was proposed. The as-prepared ZnO/Ag composite structure could be highly applicable as a multifunctional SERS substrate for the rapid detection and photocatalytic degradation of trace amounts of organic pollutants in water.
Polyacrylic Acid-Ca(Eu) Nanoclusters as a Luminescence Sensor of Phosphate Ion
Authors: Song Chunhui , Song Qifa , Ding Ziyou , Han Yingchao
Published: July 2022

In this study, we synthesized polyacrylic acid (PAA)-Ca (Eu) nanoclusters as a luminescence sensor of phosphate ion by a complex method, and we aimed to achieve the quantitative detection of PO43− based on the sensitivity of the charge transfer band of Eu3+ to anionic ligand. The resulting PAA-Ca(Eu) nanoclusters showed a well-dispersed and a dot-like morphology, with an ultra-small diameter (the average size of 2.17 nm) under high resolution transmission electron microscopy(HRTEM) observation. A dynamic light scattering particle size analyzer (DLS) showed a hydrodynamic size of 2.39 nm. The (PAA)-Ca (Eu) nanoclusters as a luminescence sensor showed a significantly higher sensitivity for PO43− than other anions (CO32−, SiO32−, SO42−, SO32−, Br−, Cl−, F−). The luminescence intensity displayed a linear increase (y = 19.32x + 74.75, R2 > 0.999) in a PO43 concentration range (0–10 mM) with the concentration of PO43− increase, and the limit of detection was 0.023 mM. The results showed good recovery rates and low relative standard deviations. These (PAA)-Ca (Eu) nanoclusters are hopeful to become a luminescence sensor for quantitatively detecting PO43−.
The Interplay of NEAT1 and miR-339-5p Influences on Mesangial Gene Expression and Function in Various Diabetic-Associated Injury Models
Authors: Reichelt-Wurm Simone , Pregler Matthias , Wirtz Tobias , Kretz Markus , Holler Kathrin , Banas Bernhard , Banas Miriam C.
Published: July 2022

Mesangial cells (MCs), substantial cells for architecture and function of the glomerular tuft, take a key role in progression of diabetic kidney disease (DKD). Despite long standing researches and the need for novel therapies, the underlying regulatory mechanisms in MCs are elusive. This applies in particular to long non-coding RNAs (lncRNA) but also microRNAs (miRNAs). In this study, we investigated the expression of nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1 (NEAT1), a highly conserved lncRNA, in several diabetes in-vitro models using human MCs. These cells were treated with high glucose, TGFβ, TNAα, thapsigargin, or tunicamycin. We analyzed the implication of NEAT1 silencing on mesangial cell migration, proliferation, and cell size as well as on mRNA and miRNA expression. Here, the miRNA hsa-miR-339-5p was not only identified as a potential interaction partner for NEAT1 but also for several coding genes. Furthermore, overexpression of hsa-miR-339-5p leads to a MC phenotype comparable to a NEAT1 knockdown. In-silico analyses also underline a relevant role of NEAT1 and hsa-miR-339-5p in mesangial physiology, especially in the context of DKD.
Identification and Functional Evaluation of Polyphenols That Induce Regulatory T Cells
Authors: Fujiki Tsukasa , Shinozaki Ryosuke , Udono Miyako , Katakura Yoshinori
Published: July 2022

Regulatory T cells (Tregs) and CD4+/CD25+ T cells play an important role in the suppression of excessive immune responses, homeostasis of immune function, and oral tolerance. In this study, we screened for food-derived polyphenols that induce Tregs in response to retinaldehyde dehydrogenase (RALDH2) activation using macrophage-like THP-1 cells. THP-1 cells were transfected with an EGFP reporter vector whose expression is regulated under the control of mouse Raldh2 promoter and named THP-1 (Raldh2p-EGFP) cells. The THP-1 (Raldh2p-EGFP) cells were treated with 33 polyphenols after inducing their differentiation into macrophage-like cells using phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate. Of the 33 polyphenols, five (kaempferol, quercetin, morin, luteolin and fisetin) activated Raldh2 promoter activity, and both quercetin and luteolin activated the endogenous Raldh2 mRNA expression and enzymatic activity. Furthermore, these two polyphenols increased transforming growth factor beta 1 and forkhead box P3 mRNA expression, suggesting that they have Treg-inducing ability. Finally, we verified that these polyphenols could induce Tregs in vivo and consequently induce IgA production. Oral administration of quercetin and luteolin increased IgA production in feces of mice. Therefore, quercetin and luteolin can induce Tregs via RALDH2 activation and consequently increase IgA production, suggesting that they can enhance intestinal barrier function.