bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Polarization on Performance of Inverted Solar Cells Based on Molecular Ferroelectric 1,6-Hexanediamine Pentaiodide Bismuth with PCBM as Electron Transport Layer
Authors: Wang Xiaolan , Zou Xiaoping , Zhu Jialin , Zhang Chunqian , Cheng Jin , Li Junming , Zhou Zixiao , Wang Yifei , Li Xiaotong , Song Keke , Ren Baokai
Published: November 2021

The depolarization field of ferroelectric photovoltaic materials can enhance the separation and transport of photogenerated carriers, which will improve the performance of photovoltaic devices, thus attracting the attention of researchers. In this paper, a narrow bandgap molecular ferroelectric Hexane-1,6-diammonium pentaiodobismuth (HDA-BiI5) was selected as the photo absorption layer for the fabrication of solar cells. After optimizing the ferroelectric thin film by the antisolvent process, the effect of different polarization voltages on the performance of ferroelectric devices was studied. The results showed that there was a significant increase in short-circuit current density, and the photoelectric conversion efficiency showed an overall increasing trend. Finally, we analyzed the internal mechanism of the effect of polarization on the device.
Unraveling Dissipation-Related Features in Magnetic Imaging by Bimodal Magnetic Force Microscopy
Authors: Jaafar Miriam , Asenjo Agustina
Published: November 2021

Magnetic Force Microscopy (MFM) is the principal characterization technique for the study of low-dimensional magnetic materials. Nonetheless, during years, the samples under study was limited to samples in the field of data storage, such as longitudinal hard disk, thin films, or patterned nanostructures. Nowadays, thanks to the advances and developments in the MFM modes and instrumentation, other fields are emerging like skyrmionic structures, 2D materials or biological samples. However, in these experiments artifacts in the magnetic images can have strong impact and need to be carefully verified for a correct interpretation of the results. For that reason, in this paper we will explore new ideas combining the multifrequency modes with the information obtained from the experimental dissipation of energy associated to tip-sample interactions.
Smart Mobility and Aspects of Vehicle-to-Infrastructure: A Data Viewpoint
Authors: Bučko Boris , Michálek Martin , Papierniková Katarína , Zábovská Katarína
Published: November 2021

The aim of this article is to describe estimates of data difficulty and aspects of the data viewpoint within Vehicle-to-Infrastructure (V2I) communication in the Smart Mobility concept. The historical development of the database system’s architecture, that stores and processes a larger amount of data, is currently sufficient and effective for the needs of today’s society. The goal of vehicle manufacturers is the continual increase in driving comfort and the use of multiple sensors to sense the vehicle’s surroundings, as well as to help the driver in critical situations avoid danger. The increasing number of sensors is directly related to the amount of data generated by the vehicle. In the automotive industry, it is crucial that autonomous vehicles can process data in real time or can locate itself in precise accuracy, for the decision-making process. To meet these requirements, we will describe HD maps as a key segment of autonomous control. It alerts the reader to the need to address the issue of real-time Big Data processing, which represents an important role in the concept of Smart Mobility.
Ensemble Deep Learning for the Detection of COVID-19 in Unbalanced Chest X-ray Dataset
Authors: Win Khin Yadanar , Maneerat Noppadol , Sreng Syna , Hamamoto Kazuhiko
Published: November 2021

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has caused devastating effects on humanity worldwide. With practical advantages and wide accessibility, chest X-rays (CXRs) play vital roles in the diagnosis of COVID-19 and the evaluation of the extent of lung damages incurred by the virus. This study aimed to leverage deep-learning-based methods toward the automated classification of COVID-19 from normal and viral pneumonia on CXRs, and the identification of indicative regions of COVID-19 biomarkers. Initially, we preprocessed and segmented the lung regions usingDeepLabV3+ method, and subsequently cropped the lung regions. The cropped lung regions were used as inputs to several deep convolutional neural networks (CNNs) for the prediction of COVID-19. The dataset was highly unbalanced; the vast majority were normal images, with a small number of COVID-19 and pneumonia images. To remedy the unbalanced distribution and to avoid biased classification results, we applied five different approaches: (i) balancing the class using weighted loss; (ii) image augmentation to add more images to minority cases; (iii) the undersampling of majority classes; (iv) the oversampling of minority classes; and (v) a hybrid resampling approach of oversampling and undersampling. The best-performing methods from each approach were combined as the ensemble classifier using two voting strategies. Finally, we used the saliency map of CNNs to identify the indicative regions of COVID-19 biomarkers which are deemed useful for interpretability. The algorithms were evaluated using the largest publicly available COVID-19 dataset. An ensemble of the top five CNNs with image augmentation achieved the highest accuracy of 99.23% and area under curve (AUC) of 99.97%, surpassing the results of previous studies.
Effects of Contact Load and Torsion Angle on Crack Propagation Behaviors of Inclined Crossed Steel Wires during Tension–Torsion Fretting Fatigue in Acid Solution
Authors: Wang Dagang , Song Daozhu , Wahab Magd Abdel
Published: November 2021

The hoisting rope in the kilometer-deep coal mine exhibits the tension–torsion fretting fatigue behaviors of inclined crossed steel wires in acid solution. Distinct contact load and torsion angles of steel wires in the rope cause different crack propagation behaviors, which greatly affect the fatigue lives of steel wires. Therefore, the effects of contact load and torsion angle on the crack propagation behaviors of inclined crossed steel wires during tension–torsion fretting fatigue in acid solution were investigated in the present study. The three-dimensional X-ray tomographic micro-imaging system was used to reveal evolutions of crack profiles and crack propagation depths during the test. The evolution of friction coefficient between steel wires during the test is presented. The three-dimensional white light interference microscope, electrochemical analyzer, and scanning electron microscope were employed to investigate the wear depth profiles, Tafel polarization curves and impedance spectra, and wear scar morphologies, respectively, of steel wires. Effects of contact load and torsion angle on crack propagation behaviors of inclined crossed steel wires during the tests were explored through analyses of friction and wear mechanisms and electrochemical corrosion damage. The results show that as the contact load and torsion angle increase, the crack propagation depth and rate of steel wire both increase and the fatigue life of steel wire decreases. Those are mainly attributed to the increases in the average tangential force between steel wires, wear depth, electrochemical corrosion tendency, and surface damage of steel wire as well as the decrease in corrosion resistance.
Automatic Asbestos Control Using Deep Learning Based Computer Vision System
Authors: Zyuzin Vasily , Ronkin Mikhail , Porshnev Sergey , Kalmykov Alexey
Published: November 2021

The paper discusses the results of the research and development of an innovative deep learning-based computer vision system for the fully automatic asbestos content (productivity) estimation in rock chunk (stone) veins in an open pit and within the time comparable with the work of specialists (about 10 min per one open pit processing place). The discussed system is based on the applying of instance and semantic segmentation of artificial neural networks. The Mask R-CNN-based network architecture is applied to the asbestos-containing rock chunks searching images of an open pit. The U-Net-based network architecture is applied to the segmentation of asbestos veins in the images of selected rock chunks. The designed system allows an automatic search and takes images of the asbestos rocks in an open pit in the near-infrared range (NIR) and processes the obtained images. The result of the system work is the average asbestos content (productivity) estimation for each controlled open pit. It is validated to estimate asbestos content as the graduated average ratio of the vein area value to the selected rock chunk area value, both determined by the trained neural network. For both neural network training tasks the training, validation, and test datasets are collected. The designed system demonstrates an error of about 0.4% under different weather conditions in an open pit when the asbestos content is about 1.5–4%. The obtained accuracy is sufficient to use the system as a geological service tool instead of currently applied visual-based estimations.
Through-Floor Vital Sign Searching for Trapped Person Using Wireless-Netted UWB Radars
Authors: Xia Zhenghuan , Wu Shiyou , Liu Xin , Shi Huifeng , Jin Shichao , Peng Tao
Published: November 2021

In personnel rescue applications, considerable attention has been paid to the positioning method of living persons. Especially, the effective vital sign searching is urgently required. This work presents an effective multiple-observation-points-based vital sign searching method for trapped persons using wireless-netted ultra-wideband (UWB) radars. Controlled by a wireless network, four UWB radars are connected to form a group. Based on that, we design an optimized searching path strategy and the corresponding vital sign searching procedure. The simulated result illustrates the proposed vital sign searching strategy on the spatial locations of the trapped person. Finally, the proof-of-principle through-floor experiment was also carried out, verifying the performance of this proposed vital sign searching algorithm.
Inflammatory Response Modulation by Vitamin C in an MPTP Mouse Model of Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: De Nuccio Francesco , Cianciulli Antonia , Porro Chiara , Kashyrina Marianna , Ruggiero Melania , Calvello Rosa , Miraglia Alessandro , Nicolardi Giuseppe , Lofrumento Dario Domenico , Panaro Maria Antonietta
Published: November 2021

Vitamin C (Vit C) is anutrient present in many foods, particularly citrus fruits, green vegetables, tomatoes, and potatoes. Vit C is studied for its applications in the prevention and management of different pathologies, including neurodegenerative diseases. Neuroinflammation is a defense mechanism activated by a stimulus or an insult that is aimed at the preservation of the brain by promoting tissue repair and removing cellular debris; however, persistent inflammatory responses are detrimental and may lead to the pathogenesis and progression of neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s disease (PD) and Alzheimer’s disease. PD is one of the most common chronic progressive neurodegenerative disorders, and oxidative stress is one of the most important factors involved in its pathogenesis and progression.Due to this, research on antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds is an important target for counteracting neurodegenerative diseases, including PD. In the central nervous system, the presence of Vit C in the brain is higher than in other body districts, but why and how this occurs is still unknown. In this research, Vit C, with its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties, is studied to better understand its contribution to brain protection; in particular, we have investigated the neuroprotective effects of Vit C in the 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-induced animal model of PD and its role in the modulation of neuroinflammation. First, we observed that Vit C significantly decreased the MPTP-induced loss of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)-positive dopaminergic neuronal cells in the substantia nigra, as well as microglial cell activation and astrogliosis. Furthermore, gait and spontaneous locomotor activity, evaluated by an automated treadmill and the Open Field test, respectively, were partially ameliorated by Vit C treatment in MPTP-intoxicated animals. In relation to neuroinflammation, results show that Vit C reduced the protein and mRNA expression of inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6, TLR4, TNF-α, iNOS, and CD40, while anti-inflammatory proteins such as IL-10, CD163, TGF-β, and IL-4 increased. Interestingly, we show for the first time that Vit C reduces neuroinflammation by modulating microglial polarization and astrocyte activation. Moreover, Vit C was able to reduce NLRP3 activation, which is linked to the pathogenesis of many inflammatory diseases, including neuroinflammatory disorders. In conclusion, our study provides evidence that Vit C may represent a new promising dietary supplement for the prevention and alleviation of the inflammatory cascade of PD, thus contributing to neuroprotection.
Effect of Serial Passage on the Pathogenicity and Immunogenicity of Vaccinia Virus LC16m8 Strain
Authors: Eto Akiko , Yamamoto Norio , Kanatani Yasuhiro
Published: November 2021

The phenotype of an attenuated live vaccine depends on gene mutation achieved by, for example, many passages in cultured cells. Viral clones with preferable phenotypes are selected and the causative genetic mutation(s) are later identified. LC16m8 is an example of a highly attenuated smallpox vaccine that was developed and licensed in Japan in the 1970s. LC16m8 was obtained by the passaging of Lister strain, with indicators of small plaque formation and temperature sensitivity as virus phenotypes. This strain can replicate in mammalian cells and provides robust cellular and humoral immunity, as well as long-term immune memory. Recent studies using proteome-wide antigen arrays have revealed that antibody production against LC16m8 and other VACVs differs largely among individuals. Moreover, associations between SNPs in immune-related genes and immune outcomes have been increasingly found. These results lead to predicting adverse events of a vaccine, which is a purpose of vaccinomics. Studies on VACV will continue to contribute to the understanding of host-pathogen interactions and to development of a vaccine for other infectious and non-infectious diseases. Here, we review studies of VACV, including our recent research on LC16m8, with a focus on the phenotype and genotype, and we discuss future research directions.
Modification of Glyceraldehyde-3-Phosphate Dehydrogenase with Nitric Oxide: Role in Signal Transduction and Development of Apoptosis
Authors: Muronetz Vladimir I. , Medvedeva Maria V. , Sevostyanova Irina A. , Schmalhausen Elena V.
Published: November 2021

This review focuses on the consequences of GAPDH S-nitrosylation at the catalytic cysteine residue. The widespread hypothesis according to which S-nitrosylation causes a change in GAPDH structure and its subsequent binding to the Siah1 protein is considered in detail. It is assumed that the GAPDH complex with Siah1 is transported to the nucleus by carrier proteins, interacts with nuclear proteins, and induces apoptosis. However, there are several conflicting and unproven elements in this hypothesis. In particular, there is no direct confirmation of the interaction between the tetrameric GAPDH and Siah1 caused by S-nitrosylation of GAPDH. The question remains as to whether the translocation of GAPDH into the nucleus is caused by S-nitrosylation or by some other modification of the catalytic cysteine residue. The hypothesis of the induction of apoptosis by oxidation of GAPDH is considered. This oxidation leads to a release of the coenzyme NAD+ from the active center of GAPDH, followed by the dissociation of the tetramer into subunits, which move to the nucleus due to passive transport and induce apoptosis. In conclusion, the main tasks are summarized, the solutions to which will make it possible to more definitively establish the role of nitric oxide in the induction of apoptosis.
Constructing Er-Doped ZnO/CuS/Au Core-Shell Nanowires with Enhanced Photocatalytic and SERS Properties
Authors: Chou Chia-Man , Chang Tan-Tzu , Chen Chin-Yi , Chang Yu-Cheng
Published: November 2021

In this study, we fabricated Er-doped ZnO/CuS/Au core-shell nanowires using two-step wet chemical methods and an ion-sputtering method on a glass substrate as a bifunctional photocatalytic and surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrate. The characteristic properties of as-prepared photocatalysts were confirmed by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, DR/UV-Vis spectroscopy, and photoluminescence spectroscopy. Compared with Er-doped ZnO nanowires and Er-doped ZnO/CuS core-shell nanowires, Er-doped ZnO/CuS/Au core-shell nanowires exhibited remarkably photocatalytic activity to degrade acid orange 7 solutions under blue LED light. These results ascribed to the Er-doped ZnO/CuS/Au core-shell nanowires can enhance the visible-light absorbance and the separation efficiency of photogenerated electron-hole pairs, inducing their higher photocatalytic activity under blue LED light. In addition, Er-doped ZnO/CuS/Au core-shell nanowires exhibit high sensitivity, a low detection limit (10−6 M), uniformity, recyclability, and stability of SERS performance for detected acid orange 7.
Metal-Organic-Frameworks: Low Temperature Gas Sensing and Air Quality Monitoring
Authors: Chen Xiaohu , Behboodian Reza , Bagnall Darren , Taheri Mahdiar , Nasiri Noushin
Published: November 2021

As an emerging class of hybrid nanoporous materials, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have attracted significant attention as promising multifunctional building blocks for the development of highly sensitive and selective gas sensors due to their unique properties, such as large surface area, highly diversified structures, functionalizable sites and specific adsorption affinities. Here, we provide a review of recent advances in the design and fabrication of MOF nanomaterials for the low-temperature detection of different gases for air quality and environmental monitoring applications. The impact of key structural parameters including surface morphologies, metal nodes, organic linkers and functional groups on the sensing performance of state-of-the-art sensing technologies are discussed. This review is concluded by summarising achievements and current challenges, providing a future perspective for the development of the next generation of MOF-based nanostructured materials for low-temperature detection of gas molecules in real-world environments.
Preliminary Results of an Ongoing Prospective Clinical Trial on the Use of 68Ga-PSMA and 68Ga-DOTA-RM2 PET/MRI in Staging of High-Risk Prostate Cancer Patients
Authors: Mapelli Paola , Ghezzo Samuele , Samanes Gajate Ana Maria , Preza Erik , Brembilla Giorgio , Cucchiara Vito , Ahmed Naghia , Bezzi Carolina , Presotto Luca , Bettinardi Valentino , Savi Annarita , Magnani Patrizia , Menichini Raffaele , Coliva Angela , Neri Ilaria , Di Gaeta Ettore , Gianolli Luigi , Freschi Massimo , Briganti Alberto , De Cobelli Francesco , Scifo Paola , Picchio Maria
Published: November 2021

The aim of the present study is to investigate the synergic role of 68Ga-PSMA PET/MRI and 68Ga-DOTA-RM2 PET/MRI in prostate cancer (PCa) staging. We present pilot data on twenty-two patients with biopsy-proven PCa that underwent 68Ga-PSMA PET/MRI for staging purposes, with 19/22 also undergoing 68Gaa-DOTA-RM2 PET/MRI. TNM classification based on image findings was performed and quantitative imaging parameters were collected for each scan. Furthermore, twelve patients underwent radical prostatectomy with the availability of histological data that were used as the gold standard to validate intraprostatic findings. A DICE score between regions of interest manually segmented on the primary tumour on 68Ga-PSMA PET, 68Ga-DOTA-RM2 PET and on T2 MRI was computed. All imaging modalities detected the primary PCa in 18/19 patients, with 68Ga-DOTA-RM2 PET not detecting any lesion in 1/19 patients. In the remaining patients, 68Ga-PSMA and MRI were concordant. Seven patients presented seminal vesicles involvement on MRI, with two of these being also detected by 68Ga-PSMA, and 68Ga-DOTA-RM2 PET being negative. Regarding extraprostatic disease, 68Ga-PSMA PET, 68Ga-DOTA-RM2 PET and MRI resulted positive in seven, four and five patients at lymph-nodal level, respectively, and at a bone level in three, zero and one patients, respectively. These preliminary results suggest the potential complementary role of 68Ga-PSMA PET, 68Ga-DOTA-RM2 PET and MRI in PCa characterization during the staging phase.
Relationship between Dizziness and the Core Vestibular Projection Injury in Patients with Mild Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Jang Sung-Ho , Bae Chang-Hoon , Kim Jae-Woon , Kwon Hyeok-Gyu
Published: November 2021

Some studies have reported that a core vestibular projection (CVP) injury is associated with dizziness following a brain injury using diffusion tensor tractography (DTT). On the other hand, there has been no DTT study on dizziness caused by a CVP injury in patients with mild traumatic brain injury (TBI). In this study, DTT was used to examine the relationship between dizziness and CVP injury in patients with mild TBI. Forty-three patients with mild TBI and twenty-nine normal subjects were recruited. The patients were classified into two groups based on the dizziness score: group A, patients with a dizziness score less than 2 on the sub-item score for dizziness in the Rivermead Post-concussion Symptoms Questionnaire; group B, patients with a dizziness score above 2. The tract volume (TV) in group B was significantly lower than group A and the control group (p < 0.05). By contrast, the TV in group A was similar to the control group (p > 0.05). Regarding the correlation, the dizziness score of all patients showed a strong negative correlation with the TV of the CVP (r = −0.711, p < 0.05). DTT revealed the CVP injury in patients with dizziness after mild TBI. In addition, the severity of dizziness of these patients was closely related to the injury severity of the CVP.
A Fully Integrated 64-Channel Recording System for Extracellular Raw Neural Signals
Authors: Zhang Xiangwei , Li Quan , Chen Chengying , Li Yan , Zuo Fuqiang , Liu Xin , Zhang Hao , Wang Xiaosong , Liu Yu
Published: November 2021

This paper presents a fully integrated 64-channel neural recording system for local field potential and action potential. It mainly includes 64 low-noise amplifiers, 64 programmable amplifiers and filters, 9 switched-capacitor (SC) amplifiers, and a 10-bit successive approximation register analogue-to-digital converter (SAR ADC). Two innovations have been proposed. First, a two-stage amplifier with high-gain, rail-to-rail input and output, and dynamic current enhancement improves the speed of SC amplifiers. The second is a clock logic that can be used to align the switching clock of 64 channels with the sampling clock of ADC. Implemented in an SMIC 0.18 μm Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) process, the 64-channel system chip has a die area of 4 × 4 mm2 and is packaged in a QFN−88 of 10 × 10 mm2. Supplied by 1.8 V, the total power is about 8.28 mW. For each channel, rail-to-rail electrode DC offset can be rejected, the referred-to-input noise within 1 Hz–10 kHz is about 5.5 μVrms, the common-mode rejection ratio at 50 Hz is about 69 dB, and the output total harmonic distortion is 0.53%. Measurement results also show that multiple neural signals are able to be simultaneously recorded.
Comparison of Mechanical and Low-Frequency Dielectric Properties of Thermally and Thermo-Mechanically Aged Low Voltage CSPE/XLPE Nuclear Power Plant Cables
Authors: Afia Ramy S. A. , Mustafa Ehtasham , Tamus Zoltán Ádám
Published: November 2021

During the service period of low-voltage nuclear cables, multiple stresses influence the aging of polymeric materials of cables. Thermal and radiation stresses are considered service aging factors in qualification tests, while the standards usually do not prescribe mechanical stress. CSPE/XLPE insulated nuclear cable samples were exposed to thermal and combined thermo-mechanical aging for more than 1200 h at 120 °C. The real and imaginary parts of permittivity were measured in the 200 μHz to 50 mHz range as dielectric properties. The Shore D hardness of the samples was measured to analyze the mechanical characteristics of the cable. To characterize the dielectric spectrum, derived quantities, namely central real and imaginary permittivities and real and imaginary permittivities’ central frequencies were calculated. The change of dielectric spectra did not show a clear trend with aging, but the imaginary permittivity’s central frequency was higher by 0.5 mHz in the case of thermo-mechanically aged samples. The Shore D hardness was also higher on the thermo-mechanically aged samples. These findings show the combined aging has a higher impact on the insulation properties. Hence, involving the mechanical stress in the aging procedure of cable qualification enables the design of more robust cables in a harsh environment.
Bit Error Performance of APD and SPAD Receivers in Optical Wireless Communication
Authors: Mahmoudi Hiwa , Zimmermann Horst
Published: November 2021

This review concentrates on the state-of-the-art hardware-oriented receiver aspects for optical wireless communication (OWC), and points to the importance of BER performance analysis and modeling in presence of non-perpendicular light incidence. Receivers in OWC networks for 6G applications have to work for strongly different light incidence angles, to allow the formation of connections to locally separated transceivers without the need for rotation units and accurate adjustment. In turn, and in combination with fully integrated optical receivers, reduction of cost and increased comfort can be achieved. Fully integrated [bipolar] complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor ([Bi]CMOS) receivers with on-chip avalanche photodiodes (APDs) and single-photon avalanche diodes (SPADs) are presented and their performance in optical wireless communication is summarized. Impressive data rates up to 2 Gbit/s and free-space transmission distances up to 27 m at bit error ratios (BER) below 10−9 are reached with linear-mode APD receivers. The importance of optical interference in the isolation and passivation stack on top of the integrated photodiodes is illuminated. To be able to predict the dependence of the BER of single-photon avalanche diode (SPAD) receivers on the light incidence angle, a model, which includes a model for the photon detection probability and a standing-wave model for the isolation and passivation stack, is extended. The dependence of the BER on the light incidence angle onto the photodiodes is investigated by electromagnetic simulation for optical transmission of the layers on top of the photodiode, device simulation for the avalanche triggering probability and BER modeling with MATLAB. It is found that incidence angles up to 30° have moderate influence on the BER and that the BER degrades significantly for incidence angles larger than 50°.
Rosemary Essential Oils as a Promising Source of Bioactive Compounds: Chemical Composition, Thermal Properties, Biological Activity, and Gastronomical Perspectives
Authors: Micić Darko , Đurović Saša , Riabov Pavel , Tomić Ana , Šovljanski Olja , Filip Snežana , Tosti Tomislav , Dojčinović Biljana , Božović Rade , Jovanović Dušan , Blagojević Stevan
Published: November 2021

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) is a plant worldwide cultivated mainly for essential oils, extracts, and as a spice. Up-to-date results showed diversity in composition of the essential oils, which may influence their quality, biological activity, and thermal properties. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the chemical composition, antimicrobial activity, and thermal properties of the rosemary essential oils originating from Serbia and Russia. Additionally, oils were added to the sunflower oils in order to investigate possible antioxidant activity during the frying. Investigation of the chemical profile marked α-pinene, eucalyptol, and camphor as the most abundant compounds in both oils. However, overall composition influenced in such manner that Russian oil showed significantly higher antimicrobial activity, while Serbian oil proved to be better antioxidant agent in case of frying of sunflower oil. This would significantly influence possible application of the oils, which could be used as an antioxidant agent for extension of the food shelf life, or antimicrobial agent for protection against different microbial strains.
Ultrasound Markers for Complex Gastroschisis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Ferreira Rui Gilberto , Mendonça Carolina Rodrigues , de Moraes Carolina Leão , de Abreu Tacon Fernanda Sardinha , Ramos Lelia Luanne Gonçalves , e Melo Natalia Cruz , Sbragia Lourenço , do Amaral Waldemar Naves , Ruano Rodrigo
Published: November 2021

Although gastroschisis is often diagnosed by prenatal ultrasound, there is still a gap in the literature about which prenatal ultrasound markers can predict complex gastroschisis. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to investigate the ultrasound markers that characterize complex gastroschisis. A systematic review of the literature was conducted according to the guidelines of PRISMA. The protocol was registered (PROSPERO ID CRD42020211685). Meta-analysis was displayed graphically on Forest plots, which estimate prevalence rates and risk ratios, with 95% confidence intervals, using STATA version 15.0. The combined prevalence of intestinal complications in fetuses with complex gastroschisis was 27.0%, with a higher prevalence of atresia (about 48%), followed by necrosis (about 25%). The prevalence of deaths in newborns with complex gastroschisis was 15.0%. The predictive ultrasound markers for complex gastroschisis were intraabdominal bowel dilatation (IABD) (RR 3.01, 95% CI 2.22 to 4.07; I2 = 15.7%), extra-abdominal bowel dilatation (EABD) (RR 1.55, 95% CI 1.01 to 2.39; I2 = 77.1%), and polyhydramnios (RR 3.81, 95% CI 2.09 to 6.95; I2 = 0.0%). This review identified that IABD, EABD, and polyhydramnios were considered predictive ultrasound markers for complex gastroschisis. However, evidence regarding gestational age at the time of diagnosis is needed.
Hormonal Characteristics of Women Receiving Ovarian Tissue Transplantation with or without Endogenous Ovarian Activity
Authors: Hornshøj Greve Vinnie , Dueholm Margit , Mamsen Linn Salto , Kristensen Stine Gry , Ernst Erik , Andersen Claus-Yding
Published: November 2021

Ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) and transplantation of frozen/thawed ovarian tissue (OTT) are used for fertility preservation in girls and women. Here, we evaluated the hormonal characteristics of women with or without postmenopausal levels of FSH at the time of OTT to study differences and conditions that best support the initiation of ovarian function. A total of 74 women undergoing OTT (n = 51 with menopausal levels of FSH; n = 23 with premenopausal levels) were followed by measurements of FSH, LH, AMH, and oestradiol. Concentrations of FSH and LH returned to premenopausal levels after 20 weeks on average, with a concomitant increase in oestradiol. Despite resumption of ovarian activity, AMH concentrations were in most instances below the detection limit in the menopausal group, suggesting a low ovarian reserve. Despite a higher age in the premenopausal group, they more often experienced an AMH increase than the menopausal group, suggesting that conditions in the premenopausal ovary better sustain follicle survival, perhaps due to the higher concentrations of oestradiol. Collectively, this study highlights the need for improving follicle survival after OTT. Age and the amount of tissue transplanted are important factors that influence the ability to regain ovarian activity and levels of FSH may need to be downregulated and oestradiol increased prior to OTT.
U SO CARE—The Impact of Cardiac Ultrasound during Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation: A Prospective Randomized Simulator-Based Trial
Authors: Zöllner Karim , Sellmann Timur , Wetzchewald Dietmar , Schwager Heidrun , Cleff Corvin , Thal Serge C. , Marsch Stephan
Published: November 2021

Background: Actual cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) guidelines recommend point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS); however, data on POCUS during CPR are sparse and conflicting. This randomized trial investigated the effects of POCUS during CPR on team performance and diagnostic accuracy. Methods: Intensive Care and Emergency Medicine residents performed CPR with or without available POCUS in simulated cardiac arrests. The primary endpoint was hands-on time. Data analysis was performed using video recordings. Results: Hands-on time was 89% (87–91) in the POCUS and 92% (89–94) in the control group (difference 3, 95% CI for difference 2–4, p < 0.001). POCUS teams had delayed defibrillator attachments (33 vs. 26 sec, p = 0.017) and first rhythm analysis (74 vs. 52 sec, p = 0.001). Available POCUS was used in 71%. Of the POCUS teams, 3 stated a POCUS-derived diagnosis, with 49 being correct and 42 followed by a correct treatment decision. Four teams made a wrong diagnosis and two made an inappropriate treatment decision. Conclusions: POCUS during CPR resulted in lower hands-on times and delayed rhythm analysis. Correct POCUS diagnoses occurred in 52%, correct treatment decisions in 44%, and inappropriate treatment decisions in 2%. Training on POCUS during CPR should focus on diagnostic accuracy and maintenance of high-quality CPR.
Relationship between the Corticospinal and Corticocerebellar Tracts and Their Role in Upper Extremity Motor Recovery in Stroke Patients
Authors: Lee Jungsoo , Chang Won Hyuk , Kim Yun-Hee
Published: November 2021

The corticospinal tract (CST) and corticocerebellar tract (CCT) are both involved in the upper extremity (UE) function after stroke. Understanding the relationship between the tracts and their functions can contribute to developing patient-specific rehabilitative strategies. Seventy ischemic stroke patients who underwent diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) two weeks after the stroke onset and motor function assessments two weeks and three months after the stroke onset were included in this study. To obtain the CST and CCT integrity, the functional anisotropy (FA) values of both tracts were extracted from the DTI data. Linear regression was used to identify the relationship and predictive accuracy. The CST FA data had predictive values, but CCT FA did not. There were interaction effects between the CST and CCT FA values (p = 0.011). The CCT was significantly associated with high CST FA but not low CST FA. When the CST or CCT FA were applied to patients depending on the CST status, the stratified model showed higher predictive accuracy (R2 = 0.380) than that of the CST-only model (R2 = 0.320). In this study, the conditional role of CCT depending on CST status was identified in terms of UE recovery in stroke patients. This result could provide useful information about individualized rehabilitative strategies in stroke patients.
Weighted Second-Order Differential Inequality on Set of Compactly Supported Functions and Its Applications
Authors: Kalybay Aigerim , Oinarov Ryskul , Sultanaev Yaudat
Published: November 2021

In the paper, we establish the oscillatory and spectral properties of a class of fourth-order differential operators in dependence on integral behavior of its coefficients at zero and infinity. In order to obtain these results, we investigate a certain weighted second-order differential inequality of independent interest.
Deciphering Genomic Heterogeneity and the Internal Composition of Tumour Activities through a Hierarchical Factorisation Model
Authors: Carbonell-Caballero José , López-Quílez Antonio , Conesa David , Dopazo Joaquín
Published: November 2021

Genomic heterogeneity constitutes one of the most distinctive features of cancer diseases, limiting the efficacy and availability of medical treatments. Tumorigenesis emerges as a strongly stochastic process, producing a variable landscape of genomic configurations. In this context, matrix factorisation techniques represent a suitable approach for modelling such complex patterns of variability. In this work, we present a hierarchical factorisation model conceived from a systems biology point of view. The model integrates the topology of molecular pathways, allowing to simultaneously factorise genes and pathways activity matrices. The protocol was evaluated by using simulations, showing a high degree of accuracy. Furthermore, the analysis with a real cohort of breast cancer patients depicted the internal composition of some of the most relevant altered biological processes in the disease, describing gene and pathway level strategies and their observed combinations in the population of patients. We envision that this kind of approaches will be essential to better understand the hallmarks of cancer.
Dissolution Behavior of Different Inclusions in High Al Steel Reacted with Refining Slags
Authors: Zhao Shuo , Li Zushu , Xu Renze , Khasraw Darbaz , Song Gaoyang , Xu Dong
Published: November 2021

Al2O3, Al2O3·TiN, Al2O3·MgO, and CaO·2Al2O3 are four different types of inclusions in high Al steels. To improve the steel cleanness level, the effective removal of such inclusions during secondary refining is very important, so these inclusions should be removed effectively via inclusion dissolution in the slag. The dissolution behavior of Al2O3, Al2O3·TiN, Al2O3·MgO, and CaO·2Al2O3 in CaO-SiO2-Al2O3-MgO slags, as well as the steel-slag reaction, was investigated using laser scanning confocal microscopy (LSCM) and high-temperature furnace experiments, and thermodynamic calculations for the inclusion in steel were carried out by FactSage 7.1. The results showed that Al2O3·TiN was observed to be completely different from the other oxides. The composite oxides dissolved quickly in the slags, and the dissolution time of the inclusions increased as their melting point increased. SiO2 and B2O3 in the slag were almost completely reacted with [Al] in steel, so the slags without SiO2 showed a positive effect for avoiding the formation of Al2O3 system inclusions and promoting inclusions dissolution as compared with SiO2-rich slags. The steel-slag reaction was also found to influence the inclusion types in steel significantly. Because of the rapid absorption of different inclusions in the slag, it was found that the dissolution time of inclusions mainly depends on the diffusion in the molten slag.
Monoseeding Increases Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) Yield by Regulating Shade-Avoidance Responses and Population Density
Authors: Chen Tingting , Zhang Jialei , Wang Xinyue , Zeng Ruier , Chen Yong , Zhang Hui , Wan Shubo , Zhang Lei
Published: November 2021

We aimed to elucidate the possible yield-increasing mechanisms through regulation of shade-avoidance responses at both physiological and molecular levels under monoseeding. Our results revealed that monoseeding decreased the main stem height but increased the main stem diameter and the number of branches and nodes compared to the traditional double- and triple-seeding patterns. The chlorophyll contents were higher under monoseeding than that under double- and triple-seeding. Further analysis showed that this, in turn, increased the net photosynthetic rate and reallocated higher levels of assimilates to organs. Monoseeding induced the expression patterns of Phytochrome B (Phy B) gene but decreased the expression levels of Phytochrome A (Phy A) gene. Furthermore, the bHLH transcription factors (PIF 1 and PIF 4) that interact with the phytochromes were also decreased under monoseeding. The changes in the expression levels of these genes may regulate the shade-avoidance responses under monoseeding. In addition, monoseeding increased pod yield at the same population density through increasing the number of pods per plant and 100-pod weight than double- and triple-seeding patterns. Thus, we inferred that monoseeding is involved in the regulation of shade-avoidance responsive genes and reallocating assimilates at the same population density, which in turn increased the pod yield.
Effects of Irrigation and Fertilization on the Morphophysiological Traits of Populus sibirica Hort. Ex Tausch and Ulmus pumila L. in the Semiarid Steppe Region of Mongolia
Authors: Byambadorj Ser-Oddamba , Park Byung Bae , Hernandez Jonathan O. , Tsedensodnom Enkhchimeg , Byambasuren Otgonsaikhan , Montagnoli Antonio , Chiatante Donato , Nyam-Osor Batkhuu
Published: November 2021

Desertification is impeding the implementation of reforestation efforts in Mongolia. Many of these efforts have been unsuccessful due to a lack of technical knowledge on water and nutrient management strategies, limited financial support, and short-lived rainfall events. We investigated the effects of irrigation and fertilization on the morphophysiological traits of Populus sibirica Hort. Ex Tausch and Ulmus pumila L. and to suggest irrigation and fertilization strategies for reforestation. Different irrigation and fertilizer treatments were applied: no irrigation, 2 L h−1, 4 L h−1, and 8 L h−1 of water; no fertilizer, 2 L h−1 + NPK, 4 L h−1 + NPK, and 8 L h−1 + NPK; and no compost, 2 L h−1 + compost, 4 L h−1 + compost, and 8 L h−1 + compost. The leaf area (LA) and specific leaf area (SLA) of both species responded positively to 4 and 8 L h−1. Results also showed that the addition of either NPK or compost to 4 or 8 L h−1 irrigation resulted in a higher LA, SLA, and leaf biomass (LB). Total chlorophyll content decreased with irrigation in both species. The same pattern was detected when a higher amount of irrigation was combined with fertilizers. Lastly, we found that both diurnal and seasonal leaf water potential of plants grown in 4 or 8 L h−1 were significantly higher than those of plants grown in control plots. Therefore, 4 or 8 L h−1 with either NPK or compost has shown to be the optimal irrigation and fertilization strategy for the species in an arid and semiarid region of Mongolia. Results should provide us with a better understanding of tree responses to varying amounts of irrigation with or without fertilizer in pursuit of sustainable forest management in arid and semiarid ecosystems.
Root Trait Variation in Lentil (Lens culinaris Medikus) Germplasm under Drought Stress
Authors: Priya Swati , Bansal Ruchi , Kumar Gaurav , Dikshit Harsh Kumar , Kumari Jyoti , Pandey Rakesh , Singh Amit Kumar , Tripathi Kuldeep , Singh Narender , Kumari N. K. Prasanna , Kumar Shiv , Kumar Ashok
Published: November 2021

Drought is the most critical environmental factor across the continents affecting food security. Roots are the prime organs for water and nutrient uptake. Fine tuning between water uptake, efficient use and loss determines the genotypic response to water limitations. Targeted breeding for root system architecture needs to be explored to improve water use efficiency in legumes. Hence, the present study was designed to explore root system architecture in lentil germplasm in response to drought. A set of 119 lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.) genotypes was screened in controlled conditions to assess the variability in root traits in relation to drought tolerance at seedling stage. We reported significant variation for different root traits in lentil germplasm. Total root length, surface area, root volume and root diameter were correlated to the survival and growth under drought. Among the studied genotypes, the stress tolerance index varied 0.19–1.0 for survival and 0.09–0.90 for biomass. Based on seedling survival and biomass under control and drought conditions, 11 drought tolerant genotypes were identified, which may be investigated further at a physiological and molecular level for the identification of the genes involved in drought tolerance. Identified lines may also be utilised in a lentil breeding program.
Identification and Content of Astaxanthin and Its Esters from Microalgae Haematococcus pluvialis by HPLC-DAD and LC-QTOF-MS after Extraction with Various Solvents
Authors: Todorović Biljana , Grujić Veno Jaša , Krajnc Andreja Urbanek , Kranvogl Roman , Ambrožič-Dolinšek Jana
Published: November 2021

Haematococcus pluvialis, a unicellular green microalga that produces a secondary metabolite under stress conditions, bears one of the most potent antioxidants, namely xanthophyll astaxanthin. The aim of our study was to determine the content of astaxanthin and its esterified forms using three different solvents—methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE), hexane isopropanol (HEX -IPA) and acetone (ACE)—and to identify them by using high performance liquid chromatography coupled with diode array detection and the quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (HPLC-DAD and LC-QTOF-MS) technique. We identified eleven astaxanthin monoesters, which accounted for 78.8% of the total astaxanthin pool, six astaxanthin diesters (20.5% of total), while free astaxanthin represented the smallest fraction (0.7%). Astaxanthin monoesters (C16:2, C16:1, C16:0), which were the major bioactive compounds in the H. pluvialis samples studied, ranged from 10.2 to 11.8 mg g−1 DW. Astaxanthin diesters (C18:4/C18:3, C18:1/C18:3) were detected in the range between 2.3 and 2.6 mg g−1 DW. All three solvents were found to be effective for extraction, but MTBE and hexane-isopropanol extracted the greatest amount of free bioactive astaxanthin. Furthermore, MTBE extracted more low-chain astaxanthin monoesters (C16), and hexane-isopropanol extracted more long-chain monoesters (C18 and above) and more diesters. We can conclude that MTBE is the solvent of choice for the extraction of monoesters and hexane-isopropanol for diesters.
A ddRADseq Survey of the Genetic Diversity of Rye (Secale cereale L.) Landraces from the Western Alps Reveals the Progressive Reduction of the Local Gene Pool
Authors: Adamo Martino , Blandino Massimo , Capo Luca , Ravetto Enri Simone , Fusconi Anna , Lonati Michele , Mucciarelli Marco
Published: November 2021

Rye (Secale cereale L.) has been at the basis of agriculture for centuries in most mountainous and northern areas of Eurasia, because it is more resistant than other cereals to low temperatures and poor soils. Rye deserves to be re-evaluated as a source of “environmentally resilient” genes in the future as well, and particularly in a perspective to grow cereals able to withstand global warming. According to recent studies, modern rye varieties have a relatively narrow genetic pool, a condition that is worsening in the most recent breeding processes. The preservation of local landraces as unique sources of genetic diversity has therefore become important, in order to preserve the genetic heritage of rye. In this study, genetic diversity of rye landraces collected in a sector of the Italian Alps particularly suited to traditional agriculture was investigated using the ddRADseq technique. A few landraces still managed with family farming turned out to be genetically distant from the commercial varieties currently in use, highlighting that the phenomenon of homogenization of the local genetic pool can be still circumvented. Ex situ conservation of genetically divergent landraces is a valid tool to avoid the dissipation of an as yet unexplored genetic potential.