bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Study on the Relationship Between Learning Motivation and Learning Effectiveness of Personnel Based on Innovation Capability
Authors: Zhang Guoqing , Chen Chenin
Published: October 2021

Under the impact of intense competition in the face of globalization, the enhancement of the quality of human capital has become the primary goal for enterprises reinforcing the competitiveness as well as the power for constant growth and profit creation. It is the well-known norm of enterprises as well as the standard of human resource management; the enhancement of capability is the key activity of enterprises as well as the common task for modern people. Work and learning run parallel in order to cope with the rapid accumulation and change of knowledge; furthermore, in addition to enterprises providing opportunities for education, employees are requested to constantly update their training. Employees in the high-tech industry in Shanxi Province, as the research objects, were distributed 500 copies of one standard questionnaire, where 384 valid copies were retrieved, with a retrieval rate of 77%. The research results illustrate significantly positive effects of (1) learning motivation on innovation capability, (2) innovation capability on learning effectiveness, and (3) learning motivation on learning effectiveness. According to the results, providing the high-tech industry with more effective education curriculum planning and arrangement is expected.
General Framework for the Optimization of the Human-Robot Collaboration Decision-Making Process Through the Ability to Change Performance Metrics
Authors: Hani Daniel Zakaria Mélodie , Lengagne Sébastien , Corrales Ramón Juan Antonio , Mezouar Youcef
Published: October 2021

This paper proposes a new decision-making framework in the context of Human-Robot Collaboration (HRC). State-of-the-art techniques consider the HRC as an optimization problem in which the utility function, also called reward function, is defined to accomplish the task regardless of how well the interaction is performed. When the performance metrics are considered, they cannot be easily changed within the same framework. In contrast, our decision-making framework can easily handle the change of the performance metrics from one case scenario to another. Our method treats HRC as a constrained optimization problem where the utility function is split into two main parts. Firstly, a constraint defines how to accomplish the task. Secondly, a reward evaluates the performance of the collaboration, which is the only part that is modified when changing the performance metrics. It gives control over the way the interaction unfolds, and it also guarantees the adaptation of the robot actions to the human ones in real-time. In this paper, the decision-making process is based on Nash Equilibrium and perfect-information extensive form from game theory. It can deal with collaborative interactions considering different performance metrics such as optimizing the time to complete the task, considering the probability of human errors, etc. Simulations and a real experimental study on “an assembly task” -i.e., a game based on a construction kit-illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed framework.
Non-calcifying Langerhans Cell Rich Variant of Calcifying Epithelial Odontogenic Tumor and Amyloid Rich Variant of Central Odontogenic Fibroma: A Unique Entity or a Spectrum?
Authors: Tseng Chih-Huang , Lu Pei-Hsuan , Wang Yi-Ping , Chiang Chun-Pin , Cheng Yi-Shing Lisa , Chang Julia Yu Fong
Published: October 2021

Overlapping clinicopathological features of non-calcifying Langerhans cell rich variant of calcifying epithelial odontogenic tumor (NCLC-CEOT) and the amyloid rich variant of the central odontogenic fibroma (AR-COF) have been recognized recently. It is still under debate whether these two diseases are indeed one unique disease entity or belong to CEOT and COF, respectively. To clarify this issue, we have performed a literature review to compare the similarities and differences in clinicopathological features among NCLC-CEOT, AR-COF, classic CEOT, and classic COF. We aimed to investigate whether NCLC-CEOT and AR-COF might be the same and one distinctive disease entity, or a variant (or variants) of either CEOT or COF; or whether COF, NCLC-CEOT/AR-COF, and CEOT represented a histopathological spectrum of one disease. Our results indicate that NCLC-CEOT and AR-COF cases share many similar clinicopathological features. Thus, we suggest that they are the same disease entity. Due to nearly no reported recurrence of NCLC-CEOT/AR-COF cases, the conservative surgical treatment is appropriate. The NCLC-CEOT/AR-COF cases show some overlapping clinicopathological features with COF rather than the CEOT cases. However, differences in the clinicopathological features are still recognized among the NCLC-CEOT/AR-COF, COF, and CEOT cases. Future research, particularly molecular biological studies, may further elucidate their relationships and assist proper classification of the NCLC-CEOT/AR-COF cases.
Optimising the Spatial and Production Input Features to Improve Efficiency of Hill Farm Production Systems
Authors: Vittis Yiorgos , Gadanakis Yiorgos , Mortimer Simon
Published: October 2021

Integration of crop and livestock production systems (ICLS) represents a method for enhancing the sustainability of agricultural systems. Introducing more diversified farm production plans increases profitability and resilience by minimising the negative environmental impacts of agricultural production. Examining farm businesses located in Less Favoured Areas (LFAs) of England, we investigate how conversion into more integrated systems impacts on profitability. Thus, providing knowledge that can enable structural changes on the farm level towards enhancing financial performance and the sustainable intensification of the production system. Through Linear Programming (LP), four distinct optimisation scenarios are estimated, demonstrating the different dynamics between more specialised and more integrated-diversified (intensified) production systems. Data regarding physical and financial performances of 139 farm businesses were derived from the Farm Business Survey (FBS) for the accounting year of 2013–2014. Our findings suggest that there is a lot of potential for increasing profitability of hill farms through optimisation of ICLS. Policy interventions may accommodate productivity challenges within the LFAs via the construction of networks of transferrable knowledge to enable farmers gain knowledge on benefits emerging from ICLS. Hence, promote strategies and risk mitigation practises that could allow hill farmers to develop a sustainably intensified production system that is maximising the production capacity of the available natural resources.
The Global Research Trends and Hotspots on Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip: A Bibliometric and Visualized Study
Authors: Wu Haiyang , Wang Yulin , Tong Linjian , Yan Hua , Sun Zhiming
Published: October 2021

Background: Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is a common musculoskeletal disorder in newborns and also one of the most common causes of hip arthritis in women. Many topics concerning DDH still remain controversial, and the global research trend in this field has not been well-studied yet. The aim of the present study was to illustrate the overall knowledge structure, development trends, and research hotspots of DDH.

Methods: The publications related to DDH from 1998 to 2020 were identified from the Web of Science Core Collection (WOSCC). Three bibliometric tools were used to conduct visualization and knowledge maps. Annual trends of publications, contributions of countries, institutions, authors, funding agencies and journals, and clustering of keywords were analyzed.

Results: A total of 2,691 publications were included. The annual number of DDH publications showed an increasing trend worldwide. The United States has made the greatest contribution, with the largest number of publications and the highest H-index. The most prolific institutions were Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, and Shriners Hospital for Children. Professors Tönnis D, Harris WH, Crowe JF, Graf R, and Salter RB have made great achievements in this field. However, the collaboration between international institutions or researchers was relatively low and mainly conducted in European and American countries. All the keywords could be divided into five clusters: hip osteoarthritis study, hip replacement study, hip ultrasound study, osteotomy surgery study, and etiology study. A trend of balanced and diversified development existed in these clusters. Keywords with the ongoing bursts, including clinical outcome, risk factor, femoroacetabular impingement, predictor, arthroscopy, morphology, and anteversion may continue to be the research hotspots in the near future.

Conclusions: There will be an increasing number of publications on DDH research, and the United States stay ahead in this field. International collaboration needs to be further strengthened. The information can provide helpful references for researchers to explore hot issues or target a specific field of DDH.
The Prognostic Significance of the Histological Types in Patients With Nonsmall Cell Lung Cancer ≤2 cm
Authors: Hao Bo , Fan Tao , Xiong Juan , Zhang Lin , Lu Zilong , Liu Bohao , Meng Heng , He Ruyuan , Li Ning , Geng Qing
Published: October 2021

Background: Few studies attempt to investigate the impact of histology on the outcome of nonsmall-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. In this study, we aim to determine whether the type of histology influenced the outcome of stage IA NSCLC patients with tumor size (TS) ≤20 mm.

Methods: The data of the population in our study was collected from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) program, which is supported by the National Cancer Institute of the United States. The primary outcome was overall survival (OS). Cox-regression proportional hazards models were performed to identify prognostic factors for OS. The secondary outcome was lung cancer-specific mortality (LCSM). A competing risk model was used to identify risk factors associated with LCSM.

Results: A total of 4,424 eligible patients (T1a-bN0M0) who received sublobar resection [wedge resection (WR) and segmentectomy] were identified and included in the study for further analysis. For patients with TS ≤ 10 mm, multivariate Cox-regression analyses for OS showed that lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC) yielded poorer OS compared with lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD), and no difference was observed between LUSC and LUAD for LCSM in competing risk models. For patients with TS > 10 and ≤20 mm, multivariate analyses revealed that LUSC patients experienced poorer OS compared with that of LUAD; the univariate competing risk analysis indicated SCC pathology predicted an increased risk of death from lung cancer, whereas no difference is observed in the multivariate competing analysis. In addition, segmentectomy was associated with longer OS in patients with >10 and ≤20 mm but not in patients with ≤10 mm compared with WR.

Conclusion: Our study demonstrated that squamous pathology was associated with the worse OS but not LCSM for patients with ≤20 mm compared with adenocarcinoma. Moreover, segmentectomy when compared to wedge resection appears to be associated with a better prognosis in patients with neoplasm >10 mm, but not in the case of nodule ≤10 mm.
Acceptance of a COVID-19 Vaccine Before it is Available in China During the Pandemic
Authors: Xu Jian , Liu Cong
Published: October 2021

Objectives: China was believed to be the country with the world’s highest acceptance rate of the COVID-19 vaccine following several investigations. This study aims to explore the Chinese acceptance of a COVID-19 vaccine before it is made available, including its determinants.

Methods: A cross-national online survey was conducted covering all 31 provinces of mainland China. The survey consists of the demographic variables, acceptance of a self-paid COVID-19 vaccine as the dependent variable, and the 3Cs factors (i.e., confidence, convenience, and complacency) as the independent variables.

Results: Among the 1,532 participants, 57.9% accepted to get a self-paid COVID-19 vaccine. COVID-19 vaccine acceptors were more likely to be concerned about the effectiveness of the vaccines, believe that they were at risk of COVID-19 infection, have a high perceived susceptibility of COVID-19, and trust in the health care system.

Conclusion: Findings indicate that the critical task in the early stage of the COVID-19 vaccine development in China is to increase the tolerance to some intuitive concerns about the vaccines, put more emphasis on the communication of the saliency of the disease threats, and effectively translate people’s trust in the government into vaccine acceptance.
Effect of Plastic Mulching on Soil Carbon and Nitrogen Cycling-Related Bacterial Community Structure and Function in a Dryland Spring Maize Field
Authors: Wang Sen , Ding Liuyi , Liu Wanyu , Wang Jun , Qian Yali
Published: October 2021

Plastic mulching, given its positive effects on temperature and water retention, has been widely used to solve water shortages and nutrient scarcity in rainfed agricultural soils. This practice affects the physical and chemical processes of soil, including carbon and nitrogen cycling. However, research into microbe-mediated carbon and nitrogen cycling in soil with plastic mulching is still limited. In this study, the structures and functions of the soil bacterial community in non-mulched spring maize, plastic-mulched spring maize, and bareland fallow in a dryland field on the Loess Plateau in China were analyzed to explore the responses of microbe-mediated carbon and nitrogen cycling to plastic mulching. Results showed that the richness of soil bacteria was the highest in bareland fallow. Plastic mulching increased the diversity and richness of soil bacteria to a certain extent (p > 0.05), and significantly increased the content of microbial biomass nitrogen (MBN) (p < 0.05). Plastic mulching enhanced the total abundances of carbon and nitrogen cycling-related microbes, exhibiting a significant increase in the abundances of Cellvibrio, Bacillus, Methylobacterium and Nitrospira (p < 0.05). Predicted functional analysis revealed 299 metabolic pathways related to carbon and nitrogen cycling, including methane metabolism, carbon fixation in photosynthetic organisms, and nitrogen metabolism. The number of gene families assigned to carbon and nitrogen cycling-related metabolic pathways was higher in plastic mulched than that in non-mulched spring maize. This study demonstrated that plastic mulching enhances the capacity of carbon and nitrogen cycling, revealing its potential in mediating greenhouse gas emissions in the dryland spring maize fields on the Loess Plateau.
Applying the Response Surface Methodology (RSM) Approach to Predict the Tractive Performance of an Agricultural Tractor during Semi-Deep Tillage
Authors: Askari Mohammad , Abbaspour-Gilandeh Yousef , Taghinezhad Ebrahim , El Shal Ahmed Mohamed , Hegazy Rashad , Okasha Mahmoud
Published: October 2021

This study aimed to evaluate the ability of the response surface methodology (RSM) approach to predict the tractive performance of an agricultural tractor during semi-deep tillage operations. The studied parameters of tractor performance, including slippage (S), drawbar power (DP) and traction efficiency (TE), were affected by two different types of tillage tool (paraplow and subsoiler), three different levels of operating depth (30, 40 and 50 cm), and four different levels of forward speed (1.8, 2.3, 2.9 and 3.5 km h−1). Tractors drove a vertical load at two levels (225 kg and no weight) in four replications, forming a total of 192 datapoints. Field test results showed that all variables except vertical load, and different combinations of this and other variables, were effective for the S, DP and TE. Increments in speed and depth resulted in an increase and decrease in S and TE, respectively. Additionally, the RSM approach displayed changes in slippage, drawbar power and traction efficiency, resulting from alterations in tine type, depth, speed and vertical load at 3D views, with high accuracy due to the graph’s surfaces, with many small pixels. The RSM model predicted the slippage as 6.75%, drawbar power as 2.23 kW and traction efficiency as 82.91% at the optimal state for the paraplow tine, with an operating depth of 30 cm, forward speed of 2.07 km h−1 and a vertical load of 0.01 kg.
Generation of a New Glutinous Photothermosensitive Genic-Male-Sterile (PTGMS) Line by CRISPR/Cas9-Directed Mutagenesis of Wx in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Teng Kaichong , Wang Xin , Guo Xinying , Liu Yaoguang , Li Rongbai
Published: October 2021

The Photothermosensitive Genic-Male-Sterile (PTGMS) line, Y58S, an indica rice variety, combines high-quality and high-light-efficiency use, disease and stress resistance, and excellent plant type and mating force. Y58S is widely used to assemble two-line hybrid rice varieties, especially super hybrids. The Wx gene is the main effector gene for controlling amylose synthesis, which determines the amylose content (AC) of rice grains. By editing this gene, a glutinous line with a low AC can be obtained. In this study, the CRISPR/Cas9 system was used to mediate the editing of the Wx gene, which caused ultra-low AC mutations that produced a PTGMS glutinous rice strain with excellent waxiness. The results showed that 18 positively transformed plants were obtained from the T0 generation, with a mutation rate of 64.29%, of which six were homozygous mutant plants, indicating that the gene-editing target had a higher targeting efficiency and a higher homozygosity mutation rate. Compared to the wild type, the AC of the mutants was significantly lower. Through molecular marker detection and screening of T1 and T2 generations, five homozygous T-DNA-free mutant strains were identified that were consistent with Y58S in fertility and other agronomic traits except for AC. Among these, the AC of the W-1-B-5 homozygous mutant, the glutinous PTGMS line wx-Y58S, was as low as 0.6%. Our research revealed that the Wx gene of excellent PTGMS rice can be edited to generate a new waxy PTGMS line using the CRISPR/Cas9 system. This study provided a simple and effective strategy for breeding high-yield, high-quality, and glutinous two-line hybrid rice, and provided excellent sterile lines for their large-scale application. Once put into use, waxy hybrid rice will greatly improve the yield of glutinous rice and increase social benefits.
Disease Severity, Resistance Analysis, and Expression Profiling of Pathogenesis-Related Protein Genes after the Inoculation of Fusarium equiseti in Wheat
Authors: Manghwar Hakim , Hussain Amjad , Ali Qurban , Saleem Muhammad Hamzah , Abualreesh Muyassar H. , Alatawi Aishah , Ali Shafaqat , Munis Muhammad Farooq Hussain
Published: October 2021

Wheat (Triticum aestivum) is an important cereal crop, grown throughout the temperate and in some tropical and sub-tropical zones, at higher elevations. Several biotic and abiotic factors influence the production of wheat. In the present study, two wheat varieties have been subjected to disease severity and resistance analysis against Fusarium equiseti. Disease severity analysis revealed Shafaq-2006 to be more resistant than Sahar-2006. Both varieties were further subjected to the expression analysis of six important defense-related genes by RT-PCR and quantitative real-time PCR. This analysis revealed that PR-1, TLP, Chitinase, and β-1,3-glucanase genes were highly expressed in Shafaq-2006 and possibly play a significant role in its defense mechanism. In addition, biochemical and physiochemical parameters were also studied to further explore the difference between resistant and susceptible varieties. With total proline and protein contents, sugar and chlorophyll contents also increased significantly in resistant variety. Likewise, higher relative water content, total plant length, and the high root–shoot ratio was observed in resistant plants, compared to susceptible wheat plants. These increases in chemical and physiological parameters might be related to the activation of the defense mechanism due to the higher expression of PR genes in the resistant wheat variety. These genes can further be employed for cloning into wheat and other transgenic crops to develop resistance against F. equiseti.
The Contribution of Microorganisms to Soil Organic Carbon Accumulation under Fertilization Varies among Aggregate Size Classes
Authors: Lu Jinjing , Li Shengping , Liang Guopeng , Wu Xueping , Zhang Qiang , Gao Chunhua , Li Jianhua , Jin Dongsheng , Zheng Fengjun , Zhang Mengni , Abdelrhman Ahmed Ali , Degré Aurore
Published: October 2021

Long-term fertilization alters soil microbiological properties and then affects the soil organic carbon (SOC) pool. However, the interrelations of SOC with biological drivers and their relative importance are rarely analyzed quantitatively at aggregate scale. We investigated the contribution of soil microbial biomass, diversity, and enzyme activity to C pool in soil aggregate fractions (>5 mm, 2–5 mm, 1–2 mm, 0.25–1 mm, and <0.25 mm) at topsoil (0–15 cm) from a 27-year long-term fertilization regime. Compared to CK (no fertilization management), NP (inorganic fertilization alone) decreased all of the microbial groups’ biomass, while NPS and NPM (inorganic fertilization plus the incorporation of maize straw or composted cow manure) significantly reduced this negative effect of NP on microbial biomass and increased the microbial contribution to C pool. The results show that microbial variables were significantly correlated with SOC content in >0.25 mm aggregates rather than in <0.25 mm aggregates. Fungal variables (fungal, AM biomass, and F/B ratio) and enzyme activities (BXYL and LAP) in >0.25 mm aggregates explained 21% and 2% of C, respectively. Overall, organic matter addition could contribute to higher C storage by boosting fungal community and enzyme activity rather than by changing microbial community diversity in macro-aggregates.
Contribution of Winter Wheat and Barley Cultivars to Climate Change via Soil Respiration in Continental Croatia
Authors: Bilandžija Darija , Zgorelec Željka , Bilandžija Nikola , Zdunić Zvonimir , Krička Tajana
Published: October 2021

Agricultural greenhouse gas emissions can be reduced by the cultivation of cultivars with lower carbon footprint. Considering the hypothesis that there are differences in soil respiration, due to differences in physiological and morphological characteristics of wheat and barley, the aim of this study is an assessment of soil respiration rates and microclimate under different cover (bare soil, wheat, and barley) and cultivar (four barley and four wheat) types. Soil respiration was determined by in situ closed static-chamber method in continental Croatia, during the 2020/2021 season. The seasonal pattern of the soil respiration was similar for all cultivars, respiration was increasing with crop development stages until maturity, when it decreased until the harvest. Cover type did not have influence on soil microclimate but did have on soil respiration. Bare soil had significantly lower annual respiration rates, compared to the barley/wheat covers. Average annual respiration rates were similar between the barley and wheat covers, as well as between all studied barley cultivars. A significant difference between winter wheat cultivars have only been determined between the Renata (9.78 kg C-CO2 ha−1 day−1) and El Nino (12.67 kg C-CO2 ha−1 day−1) cultivars. However, the determination of the total carbon budget is needed, in order to determine the most suitable cultivar, in the light of climate change.
Soil Enzyme Activity and Stoichiometry: Linking Soil Microorganism Resource Requirement and Legume Carbon Rhizodeposition
Authors: Kanté Mohamed , Riah-Anglet Wassila , Cliquet Jean-Bernard , Trinsoutrot-Gattin Isabelle
Published: October 2021

Legumes provide multiple ecosystem services in agricultural systems. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the influence of different legumes through C rhizodeposition on the dynamics of C, N and P in soil and on microbial communities’ resource requirements. Legumes pea (Pisum sativum L.), faba bean (Vicia faba L.), white clover (Trifolium repens L.), crimson clover (Trifolium incarnatum L.) and non-legume wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) were grown in pots. Carbon rhizodeposition was quantified by using 13CO2 labeling, and six soil enzyme activities were measured: β-glucosidase (BG), arylamidase (ARYLN), N-acetyl-glucosaminidase (NAG), phosphatases (PHO) and alkaline and acid phosphatases (AKP and ACP). Enzyme stoichiometry approaches were applied. The results showed that BG, NAG and ACP activities were positively influenced by faba bean and clovers. Enzyme stoichiometry analysis revealed a limitation of microorganisms in C and P resources at the plant reproductive stage. These results were explained by plant functional traits. Plant biomass production, root total length, the ability of plants to rhizodeposit C and the C and N content of plant tissues were the main explicative factors. This study also shows that N and C nutrient supplies positively contribute to nutritional requirements and the growth of microorganisms and P availability in soil.
Applying Clustering Methods to Develop an Optimal Storage Location Planning-Based Consolidated Picking Methodology for Driving the Smart Manufacturing of Wireless Modules
Authors: Chiang Tzu-An , Che Zhen-Hua , Lee Ching-Hung , Liang Wei-Chi
Published: October 2021

Picking operations is the most time-consuming and laborious warehousing activity. Managers have been seeking smart manufacturing methods to increase picking efficiency. Because storage location planning profoundly affects the efficiency of picking operations, this study uses clustering methods to propose an optimal storage location planning-based consolidated picking methodology for driving the smart manufacturing of wireless modules. Firstly, based on the requirements of components derived by the customer orders, this research analyzes the storage space demands for these components. Next, this research uses the data of the received dates and the pick-up dates for these components to calculate the average duration of stay (DoS) values. Using the DoS values and the storage space demands, this paper executes the analysis of optimal storage location planning to decide the optimal storage location of each component. In accordance with the optimal storage location, this research can evaluate the similarity among the picking lists and then separately applies hierarchical clustering and K-means clustering to formulate the optimal consolidated picking strategy. Finally, the proposed method was verified by using the real case of company H. The result shows that the travel time and the distance for the picking operation can be diminished drastically.
Morphological Dynamics of Leukemia Cells on TiO2 Nanoparticle Coatings Studied by AFM
Authors: Garcia Diosa Jaime Andres , Gonzalez Orive Alejandro , Grundmeier Guido , Camargo Amado Ruben Jesus , Keller Adrian
Published: October 2021

Coatings of modified TiO2 nanoparticles (TiO2-m) have been shown to effectively and selectively trap non-adherent cancer cells, with an enormous potential for applications in photodynamic therapy (PDT). Leukemia cells have a remarkable affinity for TiO2-m coatings, adhering to the surface by membrane structures and exhibiting morphologic characteristics of amoeboid locomotion. However, the details of the cell–substrate interaction induced by the TiO2-m coating remain elusive. With the aim to obtain a better understanding of this phenomenon, leukemia cell adhesion to such coatings was characterized by atomic force microscopy (AFM) for short contact times up to 60 min. The cell and membrane morphological parameters mean cell height, contact area, cell volume, and membrane roughness were determined at different contact times. These results reveal cell expansion and contraction phases occurring during the initial stage of adhesion. Subsequently, the leukemic cells reach what appears to be a new resting state, characterized by pinning of the cell membrane by TiO2-m nanoparticle aggregates protruding from the coating surface.
Feasibility of a Reusable Radiochromic Dosimeter
Authors: Newton Joseph R. , Recht Maxwell , Hauger Joseph A. , Segarra Gabriel , Inglett Chase , Romo Pedro A. , Adamovics John
Published: October 2021

The current practice for patient-specific quality assurance (QA) uses ion chambers or diode arrays primarily because of their ease of use and reliability. A standard routine compares the dose distribution measured in a phantom with the dose distribution calculated by the treatment planning system for the same experimental conditions. For the particular problems encountered in the treatment planning of complex radiotherapy techniques, such as small fields/segments and dynamic delivery systems, additional tests are required to verify the accuracy of dose calculations. The dose distribution verification should be throughout the total 3D dose distribution for a high dose gradient in a small, irradiated volume, instead of the standard practice of one to several planes with 2D radiochromic (GAFChromic) film. To address this issue, we have developed a 3D radiochromic dosimeter that improves the rigor of current QA techniques by providing high-resolution, complete 3D verification for a wide range of clinical applications. The dosimeter is composed of polyurethane, a radical initiator, and a leuco dye, which is radiolytically oxidized to a dye absorbing at 633 nm. Since this chemical dosimeter is single-use, it represents a significant expense. The purpose of this research is to develop a cost-effective reusable dosimeter formulation. Based on prior reusability studies, three promising dosimeter formulations were studied using small volume optical cuvettes and irradiated to known clinically relevant doses of 0.5–10 Gy. After irradiation, the change in optical density was measured in a spectrophotometer. All three formulations retained linearity of optical density response to radiation upon re-irradiations. However, only one formulation retained dose sensitivity upon at least five re-irradiations, making it ideal for further evaluation as a 3D dosimeter.
Nonlinear Suppression of a Dual-Tube Coriolis Mass Flowmeter Based on Synchronization Effect
Authors: Li Zhong-Xiang , Hu Chun , Han Ming-Zhe , Fan Shang-Chun , Zheng De-Zhi
Published: October 2021

Nonlinear interference components exist in the output signals of dual-tube Coriolis mass flowmeters (CMFs) which affect the sensitivity and accuracy of the devices. This nonlinearity still appears under zero flow, which is manifested when the output signal contains a frequency doubling signal. This study (1) investigated an additional-mass method to suppress the nonlinear frequency doubling phenomenon, (2) established a coupling system vibration model with additional mass, built a dynamic differential equation for the vibration of the double-beam coupling system from the Lagrange equation, (3) obtained amplitude frequency information using a fourth-order Runge–Kutta method, (4) determined the suppression effect of the additional mass on the nonlinear frequency doubling phenomenon, and (5) experimentally verified the CMF. The results showed that the base coupled the vibrations of two beams, and the symmetric additional mass suppressed the nonlinear frequency doubling phenomenon, thus suppressing low or high frequencies. Also, the effect of pipeline defects simulated under asymmetric additional mass was obtained through numerical analysis and experimental data. Flowmeters with a required measuring frequency range had the optimal suppression effect on nonlinear frequency doubling and provided theoretical guidance for the nondestructive testing of measuring tubes.
Study on the Increase of the Supporting Capacity of a Cement Milk Pile with Expansive Additives
Authors: Choi Hyeonggil , Lee Taegyu , Choi Heesup , Lee Kangsoo , Lee Dong-Eun
Published: October 2021

In this study, an engineering characteristic test was conducted on cement milk using expansive additives during the construction of bored piles. Expansive additive mixtures with various mixing ratios were prepared according to the construction standards of the Korea Expressway Corporation. Segregation resistance, compressive strength, frictional resistance stress, scanning electron microscope images, porosity, and economic feasibility were analyzed. It was found that segregation effects due to expansive additive incorporation were insignificant, and it was confirmed that all specimens exceeded 0.5 N/mm2, the compressive strength standard of the Korea Expressway Corporation pile bearing capacity. Given a water–binder ratio of 83% mixed with 10% expansive additives, frictional resistance increased up to ~35%, skin friction force was significantly improved, and a cost-saving effect of up to ~33.24% was achieved.
Integrated Process Model Applications Linking Bioprocess Development to Quality by Design Milestones
Authors: Taylor Christopher , Marschall Lukas , Kunzelmann Marco , Richter Michael , Rudolph Frederik , Vajda Judith , Presser Beate , Zahel Thomas , Studts Joey , Herwig Christoph
Published: October 2021

Maximizing the value of each available data point in bioprocess development is essential in order to reduce the time-to-market, lower the number of expensive wet-lab experiments, and maximize process understanding. Advanced in silico methods are increasingly being investigated to accomplish these goals. Within this contribution, we propose a novel integrated process model procedure to maximize the use of development data to optimize the Stage 1 process validation work flow. We generate an integrated process model based on available data and apply two innovative Monte Carlo simulation-based parameter sensitivity analysis linearization techniques to automate two quality by design activities: determining risk assessment severity rankings and establishing preliminary control strategies for critical process parameters. These procedures are assessed in a case study for proof of concept on a candidate monoclonal antibody bioprocess after process development, but prior to process characterization. The evaluation was successful in returning results that were used to support Stage I process validation milestones and demonstrated the potential to reduce the investigated parameters by up to 24% in process characterization, while simultaneously setting up a strategy for iterative updates of risk assessments and process controls throughout the process life-cycle to ensure a robust and efficient drug supply.
Blockade of Cellular Energy Metabolism through 6-Aminonicotinamide Reduces Proliferation of Non-Small Lung Cancer Cells by Inducing Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress
Authors: Kaushik Neha , Kaushik Nagendra Kumar , Choi Eun Ha , Kim June Hyun
Published: October 2021

The pentose phosphate pathway (PPP) is the most common pathway in most cancer cells and stimulates antioxidant defense mechanisms and synthesis of biomolecule precursors. It is believed that cancer cells persistently ameliorate glucose flux into the PPP to maintain their anabolic requirements and adjust oxidative stress. TCGA analyses have indicated the upregulation of enzymes involved in PPP in lung cancer. Hence, the present study aimed to determine whether the pharmacological blockade of glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), the primary and rate-limiting enzyme involved in PPP, using 6-aminonicotinamide (6-AN), could induce antiproliferative activity in two lung cancer cell lines. Exposure to 6-AN suppressed lactate production and glucose consumption, modified the mitochondrial potential and redox balance, and thereby induced the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress to reduce lung cancer cell proliferation and govern cellular apoptosis. Collectively, this is the first study in which PPP blockade by 6-AN causes reactive oxygen species (ROS)-mediated apoptosis by ER stress in lung cancer cells. Further preclinical studies will be conducted to validate the biological applicability of these findings.
Extraction and Chemical Characterization of Functional Phenols and Proteins from Coffee (Coffea arabica) By-Products
Authors: Prandi Barbara , Ferri Maura , Monari Stefania , Zurlini Chiara , Cigognini Ilaria , Verstringe Stefanie , Schaller Dennis , Walter Martha , Navarini Luciano , Tassoni Annalisa , Sforza Stefano , Tedeschi Tullia
Published: October 2021

Not all the coffee produced goes to the roasting stage, because non-compliant green coffee beans are usually discarded by roasters and the silverskin of the coffee is usually removed and discarded. In the present work, non-compliant green coffee beans and coffee silverskins were fully characterized from a chemical point of view. In addition, enzyme-assisted extraction was applied to recover a fraction rich in proteins and polyphenols, tested for antimicrobial, antityrosinase, and antioxidant activities. Non-compliant green coffee beans showed higher amounts of polyphenols, flavanols, flavonoids, and caffeine than coffee silverskins (which were richer in tannins). The enzymatic extraction of non-compliant coffee green beans produced extracts with a good protein content and with a consistent quantity of polyphenols. The extract showed antioxidant, antityrosinase, and antimicrobial activity, thus representing a promising strategy to recover defective green coffee beans. The antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of coffee silver skins is lower than that of non-compliant coffee green beans extracts, while the antityrosinase activity is comparable.
Topical Administration of Heat-Killed Enterococcus faecalis Strain KH2 Promotes Re-Epithelialization and Granulation Tissue Formation during Skin Wound-Healing
Authors: Tanno Hiromasa , Kanno Emi , Kurosaka Shiho , Oikawa Yukari , Watanabe Takumi , Sato Ko , Kasamatsu Jun , Miyasaka Tomomitsu , Ishi Shinyo , Shoji Miki , Takagi Naoyuki , Imai Yoshimichi , Ishii Keiko , Tachi Masahiro , Kawakami Kazuyoshi
Published: October 2021

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are known to have beneficial effects on immune responses when they are orally administered as bacterial products. Although the beneficial effects of LAB have been reported for the genera Lactobacillus and Lactococcus, little has been uncovered on the effects of the genus Enterococcus on skin wound-healing. In this study, we aimed to clarify the effect of heat-killed Enterococcus faecalis KH2 (heat-killed KH2) strain on the wound-healing process and to evaluate the therapeutic potential in chronic skin wounds. We analyzed percent wound closure, re-epithelialization, and granulation area, and cytokine and growth factor production. We found that heat-killed KH2 contributed to the acceleration of re-epithelialization and the formation of granulation tissue by inducing tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6, basic fibroblast growth factor, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1, and vascular endothelial growth factor production. In addition, heat-killed KH2 also improved wound closure, which was accompanied by the increased production of TGF-β1 in diabetic mice. Topical administration of heat-killed KH2 might have therapeutic potential for the treatment of chronic skin wounds in diabetes mellitus. In the present study, we concluded that heat-killed KH2 promoted skin wound-healing through the formation of granulation tissues and the production of inflammatory cytokines and growth factors.
Sex Differences in Dopamine Receptor Signaling in Fmr1 Knockout Mice: A Pilot Study
Authors: Jiang Anlong , Wang Le , Lu Justin Y. D. , Freeman Amy , Campbell Charlie , Su Ping , Wong Albert H. C. , Liu Fang
Published: October 2021

Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is an X-chromosome-linked dominant genetic disorder that causes a variable degree of cognitive dysfunction and developmental disability. Current treatment is symptomatic and no existing medications target the specific cause of FXS. As with other X-linked disorders, FXS manifests differently in males and females, including abnormalities in the dopamine system that are also seen in Fmr1-knockout (KO) mice. We investigated sex differences in dopamine signaling in Fmr1-KO mice in response to L-stepholidine, a dopamine D1 receptor agonist and D2 receptor antagonist. We found significant sex differences in basal levels of phosphorylated protein kinase A (p-PKA) and glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)-3β in wild type mice that were absent in Fmr1-KO mice. In wild-type mice, L-stepholidine increased p-PKA in males but not female mice, decreased p-GSK-3 in female mice and increased p-GSK-3 in male mice. Conversely, in Fmr1-KO mice, L-stepholidine increased p-PKA and p-GSK-3β in females, and decreased p-PKA and p-GSK-3β in males.
Circular Economy: Challenges and Opportunities in the Construction Sector of Kazakhstan
Authors: Torgautov Beibut , Zhanabayev Asset , Tleuken Aidana , Turkyilmaz Ali , Mustafa Mohammad , Karaca Ferhat
Published: October 2021

The circular economy in the construction sector in emerging economies is one of the most promising concepts that aims to keep the value of the construction materials and structures as long as possible. The construction industry is rapidly developing in Kazakhstan with a yearly increase in projects. This research paper investigates the construction sector in Kazakhstan in terms of the potential application of circular economy principles by local stakeholders—clients, contractors, designers, and manufacturers. As limited research has been conducted on the circularity within the construction environment, including construction parties, this paper aims to fill this research gap. It seeks to identify the construction trends and perform a barrier and opportunity analysis to develop circular economy principles in the construction sector. As a research method, PEST is used for the study of local construction trends. At the same time, stakeholders are interviewed using semi-structured surveys organized according to the ReSOLVE framework (regenerate, share, optimize, loop, virtualize, and exchange) to identify the barriers and opportunities for circular economy in the construction sector. As an outcome of this study, the most common barriers and opportunities were associated with the economic benefit factor, as this was the main motivation for the stakeholders to save construction materials for reuse or to refuse more eco-friendly technologies. Additionally, policy recommendations for companies involved in the construction ecosystem were provided according to the assessment of found barriers and opportunities in the context of the ReSOLVE framework. This analysis has shown that for most stakeholders of the Kazakhstani construction sector, virtualization is of the highest priority; therefore, opportunities for its development are recommended. Future research could focus on the development of economically feasible solutions for the circular economy in construction with the inclusion of virtualization technologies.
Activation of Pt Nanoclusters on TiO2 via Tuning the Metallic Sites to Promote Low-Temperature CO Oxidation
Authors: He Kailin , Wang Qingyue
Published: October 2021

Metallic Pt sites are imperative in the CO oxidation reaction. Herein, we demonstrate the tuning of Pt sites by treating a Pt catalyst in various reductive atmospheres, influencing the catalyst activities in low-temperature CO oxidation. The H2 pretreatment of Pt clusters at 200 °C decreases the T50 from 208 °C to 183 °C in the 0.1 wt % Pt/TiO2 catalyst. The T50 shows a remarkable improvement using a CO pretreatment, which decreases the T50 further to 135 °C. A comprehensive characterization study reveals the integrated reasons behind this phenomenon: (i) the extent of PtO transition to metallic Pt sites, (ii) the ample surface active oxygen triggered by metallic Pt, (iii) the CO selectively adsorbs on metallic Pt sites which participate in low-temperature CO oxidation, and (iv) the formation of the unstable intermediate such as bicarbonate, contributes together to the enhanced activity of CO pretreated Pt/TiO2.
Fibrotic Remodeling during Persistent Atrial Fibrillation: In Silico Investigation of the Role of Calcium for Human Atrial Myofibroblast Electrophysiology
Authors: Sánchez Jorge , Trenor Beatriz , Saiz Javier , Dössel Olaf , Loewe Axel
Published: October 2021

During atrial fibrillation, cardiac tissue undergoes different remodeling processes at different scales from the molecular level to the tissue level. One central player that contributes to both electrical and structural remodeling is the myofibroblast. Based on recent experimental evidence on myofibroblasts’ ability to contract, we extended a biophysical myofibroblast model with Ca2+ handling components and studied the effect on cellular and tissue electrophysiology. Using genetic algorithms, we fitted the myofibroblast model parameters to the existing in vitro data. In silico experiments showed that Ca2+ currents can explain the experimentally observed variability regarding the myofibroblast resting membrane potential. The presence of an L-type Ca2+ current can trigger automaticity in the myofibroblast with a cycle length of 799.9 ms. Myocyte action potentials were prolonged when coupled to myofibroblasts with Ca2+ handling machinery. Different spatial myofibroblast distribution patterns increased the vulnerable window to induce arrhythmia from 12 ms in non-fibrotic tissue to 22 ± 2.5 ms and altered the reentry dynamics. Our findings suggest that Ca2+ handling can considerably affect myofibroblast electrophysiology and alter the electrical propagation in atrial tissue composed of myocytes coupled with myofibroblasts. These findings can inform experimental validation experiments to further elucidate the role of myofibroblast Ca2+ handling in atrial arrhythmogenesis.
Cortactin Modulates Lung Endothelial Apoptosis Induced by Cigarette Smoke
Authors: Bandela Mounica , Letsiou Eleftheria , Natarajan Viswanathan , Ware Lorraine B. , Garcia Joe G. N. , Singla Sunit , Dudek Steven M.
Published: October 2021

Cigarette smoke (CS) is the primary cause of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), and an important pathophysiologic event in COPD is CS-induced apoptosis in lung endothelial cells (EC). Cortactin (CTTN) is a cytoskeletal actin-binding regulatory protein with modulation by Src-mediated tyrosine phosphorylation. Based upon data demonstrating reduced CTTN mRNA levels in the lungs of smokers compared to non-smokers, we hypothesized a functional role for CTTN in CS-induced mitochondrial ROS generation and apoptosis in lung EC. Exposure of cultured human lung EC to CS condensate (CSC) led to the rearrangement of the actin cytoskeleton and increased CTTN tyrosine phosphorylation (within hours). Exposure to CS significantly increased EC mitochondrial ROS generation and EC apoptosis. The functional role of CTTN in these CSC-induced EC responses was explored using cortactin siRNA to reduce its expression, and by using a blocking peptide for the CTTN SH3 domain, which is critical to cytoskeletal interactions. CTTN siRNA or blockade of its SH3 domain resulted in significantly increased EC mitochondrial ROS and apoptosis and augmented CSC-induced effects. Exposure of lung EC to e-cigarette condensate demonstrated similar results, with CTTN siRNA or SH3 domain blocking peptide increasing lung EC apoptosis. These data demonstrate a novel role for CTTN in modulating lung EC apoptosis induced by CS or e-cigarettes potentially providing new insights into COPD pathogenesis.