bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Temperatures on Polyphenols during Extraction
Authors: Antony Anila , Farid Mohammed
Published: February 2022

Background: Polyphenols are a set of bioactive compounds commonly found in plants. These compounds are of great interest, as they have shown high antioxidant power and are correlated to many health benefits. Hence, traditional methods of extraction such as solvent extraction, Soxhlet extraction and novel extraction technologies such as ultrasound-assisted extraction and subcritical water extraction (SWE) have been investigated for the extraction of polyphenols. Scope and Approach: Generally, for traditional extractions, the total phenolic content (TPC) is highest at an extraction temperature of 60–80 °C. For this reason, polyphenols are regularly regarded as heat-labile compounds. However, in many studies that investigated the optimal temperature for subcritical water extraction (SWE), temperatures as high as 100–200 °C have been reported. These SWE extractions showed extremely high yields and antioxidant capacities at these temperatures. This paper aimed to examine the relevant literature to identify and understand the mechanisms behind this discrepancy. Results: Thermal degradation is the most common explanation for the degradation of polyphenols. This may be the case for specific or sub-groups of phenolic acids. The different extraction temperatures may have also impacted the types of polyphenols extracted. At high extraction temperatures, the formation of new compounds known as Maillard reaction products may also influence the extracted polyphenols. The selection of source material for extraction, i.e., the plant matrix, and the effect of extraction conditions, i.e., oxidation and light exposure, are also discussed. The overestimation of total phenolic content by the Folin–Ciocâlteu assay is also discussed. There is also a lack of consensus in TPC’s correlation to antioxidant activity.
Joint Stiffness Influence on the First-Order Seismic Capacity of Dry-Joint Masonry Structures: Numerical DEM Investigations
Authors: Savalle Nathanaël , Lourenço Paulo B. , Milani Gabriele
Published: February 2022

Heritage masonry structures are often modelled as dry-jointed structures. On the one hand, it may correspond to the reality where the initial mortar was weak, missing, or has disappeared through time because of erosion and lixiviation. On the other hand, this modelling approach reduces complexity to the studied problem, both from an experimental and theoretical/numerical point of views, while being conservative. Still, for modelling purposes, in addition to the joint friction, numerical approaches require a specific elastic parameter, the dry-joint stiffness, which is often hard to estimate experimentally. This work numerically investigates the effect of the joint stiffness on the collapse of scaled-down tilting test experiments carried out on perforated dry-joint masonry shear walls. It is found that geometrical imperfections of bricks and the absence of vertical precompression load can lead to very low equivalent dry-joint stiffness, which strongly affects the results, both in terms of collapse and damage limit state (DLS) loads, with practical implications for the engineering practice.
Computational Study of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms with Severely Angulated Neck Based on Transient Hemodynamics Using an Idealized Model
Authors: Kaewchoothong Natthaporn , Algabri Yousif A. , Assawalertsakul Thanin , Nuntadusit Chayut , Chatpun Surapong
Published: February 2022

An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is an enlargement of the abdominal aorta that can become a life-threatening disease. The pulsatile blood flow exhibits intricate laminar patterns in the abdominal portion of the human aorta under normal resting conditions, whereas secondary flows are caused by adjacent branches and abnormal vessel geometries. If a pathological disorder (e.g., aneurysm) alters the structural composition of the artery wall, the flow dynamics become more complex. In this study, we analyzed the hemodynamics of pulsatile blood flow in three-dimensional AAA models. Computational predictions of hemodynamic changes were performed considering idealized models for four severe proximal neck angulations of symmetric aneurysms assuming conditions of laminar flow and a rigid artery wall. The predictions were based on computational fluid dynamics throughout the cardiac cycle. Postprocessing was used to visualize the numerical findings. The hemodynamic changes in factors such as velocity, flow streamline, pressure, and wall shear stress were obtained and visualized. The resulting blood flow through the severely angulated proximal neck of the abdominal aorta caused strong turbulence and asymmetric flow inside the aneurysm sac, leading to blood recirculation, especially during diastole. The simulation results showed the formation of regions with high and low wall shear stress, turbulent flow, and recirculation in the aneurysm sac depending on the angulation, which could have led to aortic wall weakness.
Demonstration of a Hybrid Analog–Digital Transport System Architecture for 5G and Beyond Networks
Authors: Kanta Konstantina , Toumasis Panagiotis , Tokas Kostas , Stratakos Ioannis , Papatheofanous Elissaios Alexis , Giannoulis Giannis , Mesogiti Ioanna , Theodoropoulou Eleni , Lyberopoulos George , Lentaris George , Apostolopoulos Dimitris , Reisis Dionysis , Soudris Dimitrios , Avramopoulos Hercules
Published: February 2022

In future mobile networks, the evolution of optical transport architectures enabling the flexible, scalable interconnection of Baseband Units (BBUs) and Radio Units (RUs) with heterogeneous interfaces is a significant issue. In this paper, we propose a multi-technology hybrid transport architecture that comprises both analog and digital-Radio over Fiber (RoF) mobile network segments relying on a dynamically reconfigurable optical switching node. As a step forward, the integration of the discussed network layout into an existing mobile infrastructure is demonstrated, enabling the support of real-world services through both standard digital and Analog–Intermediate- Frequency over Fiber (A-IFoF)-based converged fiber–wireless paths. Emphasis has been placed on the implementation of a real-time A-IFoF transceiver that is employed through a single embedded fully programmable gateway array (FPGA)-based platform that serves as an Ethernet to Intermediate Frequency (IF) bridge for the transmission of legacy traffic over the analog network segment. The experimental evaluation of the proposed concept was based on the dynamic optical routing of the legacy Common Public Radio Interface (CPRI), 1.5 GBaud analog-intermediate frequency-over-fiber (A-IFoF)/mmWave and 10 Gbps binary optical waveforms, showing acceptable error vector magnitude (EVM) values for the complex radio waveforms and error-free operation for binary optical streams, with Bit Error Rate (BER) values less than 10−9. Finally, the end-to-end proof-of-concept demonstration of the proposed solution was achieved through the delivery of 4K video streaming and Internet Protocol (IP) calls over a mobile core network.
Mass Flow Scaling of Gas-Assisted Coaxial Atomizers
Authors: Wachter Simon , Jakobs Tobias , Kolb Thomas
Published: February 2022

This study aims to derive basic principles for liquid mass flow scaling of gas-assisted coaxial nozzles. Four liquid mass flow steps were investigated in the range of M˙liq = 20–500 kg·h−1, applying four atomizers with similar geometry designed at Weaero= const. High-speed camera and phase Doppler anemometer were utilized to detect the local droplet size distribution. To estimate a reliable measurement plane, a detection method and determination according to the free jet theory was used. The resulting droplet size was analyzed, applying the aerodynamic Weber number, as well as the gas momentum flow. An empirical model was derived out of the measured data, which allows for liquid mass flow scaling when process parameters such as GLR, liquid mass flow, and required Sauter mean diameter are specified. The model was developed as a first step towards liquid mass flow scaling of gas-assisted coaxial atomizers within the investigated range of operating conditions.
Improvement of Airflow Distribution and Contamination Control for a Biotech Cleanroom
Authors: Wang Fujen , Permana Indra , Lee Kwowhei , Rakshit Dibakar , Rosulindo Parisya Premiera
Published: February 2022

The biotech cleanroom industry presents a biological basis for living organisms or their components (bacteria or enzymes) to produce helpful medicine. However, biotech industries such as vaccine production need a clean critical environment and contamination control that is always a vital concern for the manufacturing process. This study investigates a biotech cleanroom through a comprehensive field measurement and numerical simulation. The field measurement test results conformed to the design specification to satisfactorily meet with the cleanroom standard of PIC/S and EU GMP. Furthermore, the field measurement data were used as a basic validation and boundary condition for numerical simulation. The numerical simulation results revealed that the concentration distribution in case 1 as a baseline case showed satisfactory results, with a removal efficiency of 75.2% and ventilation efficiency of 80%. However, there was still a high concentration accumulated in certain areas. The improvement strategy was analyzed through non-unidirectional flow ventilation with different face velocities and by adding one return air grille for case 2 and two return air grilles for case 3. The results revealed that case 2 presented the best results in this study, with a removal efficiency of 86.7% and ventilation efficiency of 82% when supplying air velocity at 0.2 m/s. In addition, increasing the supply air velocity to 0.3 m/s could enhance removal ventilation by around 19% and ventilation efficiency by around 5%.
Does Agricultural Credit Mitigate the Effect of Climate Change on Cereal Production? Evidence from Sichuan Province, China
Authors: He Wensong , Chen Wei , Chandio Abbas Ali , Zhang Bangzheng , Jiang Yuansheng
Published: February 2022

This study attempts to investigate the effects of global climate change (via temperature and rainfall) on cereal production in Sichuan over the 1978–2018 period, whether agricultural credit combining with technical progress (i.e., mechanical farming rate) mitigate the effect of climate change. The present study empirically analyzed the short-term and long-term interrelation among all the considered variables by using the autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) model. The results of the ARDL bounds testing revealed that there is a long-term cointegration relationship between the variables. The findings showed that temperature significantly negatively affected cereal production, while rainfall significantly contributed to cereal production in the context of Sichuan province, China. Agricultural credit, especially in the long run, significantly improved cereal production, implying that agricultural credit is used to invest in climate mitigation technologies in cereal production. Findings further indicated that the mechanical farming rate significantly enhanced cereal production, indicating that technical progress has been playing a vital role. This study suggests that the policymakers should formulate more comprehensive agricultural policies to meet the financial needs of the agricultural sector and increase support for production technology.
Nutraceutical and Functional Properties of Camelids’ Milk
Authors: Vincenzetti Silvia , Cammertoni Natalina , Rapaccetti Roberta , Santini Giuseppe , Klimanova Yulia , Zhang Jing-Jing , Polidori Paolo
Published: February 2022

In most areas of the world, camelids are considered exotic animals, living only in zoological gardens. Additionally, considering the original lands where they were previously bred with specific economic and social aims, today it is possible to detect a reduction in their total numbers. Typically bred as working animals for goods transportation in desert regions, and as a source of meat and milk, in recent years, camels have been dismissed due to the construction of new roads for motor vehicles, the migration of nomadic populations from deserts to urban zones, and the choice of some autochthonous bovine breeds as sources of meat and milk. The decline in camelids heads seems irreversible. Camels should be considered a valid source of food in marginal areas; the peculiar quality parameters of their milk, showing the proper characteristics for the use of this milk in human nutrition, can justify the choice for breeding them, rather than considering camels only as objects of amusement.
Stress-Reducing Effect of a 50 Hz Electric Field in Mice after Repeated Immobilizations, Electric Field Shields, and Polarization of the Electrodes
Authors: Harakawa Shinji , Nedachi Takaki , Shinba Toshikazu , Suzuki Hiroshi
Published: February 2022

In BALB/c mice, immobilization-increased plasma glucocorticoid (GC) levels are suppressed by extremely low frequency (ELF) electric fields (EF). The aim of this study was to advance our understanding of the biological effects of ELF-EF, using its suppressive effect on the GC response. Mice were exposed to a 50 Hz EF of 10 kV/m via a parallel plate electrode and immobilized as needed. We examined the suppressive effect of ELF-EF on GC level change after repeated immobilizations, electrode polarization, and EF shielding of different portions of the mouse body parts. Additionally, bodyweight changes owing to stress and EF were examined. Immobilization-induced reduction in the plasma GC levels was reproduced in mice with stress and EF exposure, regardless of the stress episode numbers and electrode polarization. Furthermore, when the head of mice was shielded from the EF, the suppressive effect was possibly relatively lower than that when the abdomen was shielded. The bodyweight of the mice decreased for 3 days after immobilization before recovering; ELF-EF did not affect the bodyweight. Thus, to elicit the biological effects of the EF, not only the size of the area where the EF is distributed but also the area where the field is distributed should be important. The results also confirmed the stableness of the present experimental system, at least in terms of the stress-reducing effect. In addition, the restriction in this study caused weight loss, but ELF-EF was not considered to affect it. The results improve the understanding of the biological effect and medical applications of ELF-EF.
A Description of the Hemolytic Component in Sickle Leg Ulcer: The Role of Circulating miR-199a-5p, miR-144, and miR-126
Authors: Santos Edvan do Carmo , Melo Gabriela Imbassahy Valentim , Santana Paulo Vinícius Bispo , Quadros Idaiara Graziele Silva , Yahouédéhou Sètondji Cocou Modeste Alexandre , Guarda Caroline Conceição da , Santiago Rayra Pereira , Fiuza Luciana Magalhães , Carvalho Suéllen Pinheiro , Adorno Elisângela Vitória , Kaneto Carla Martins , Fonseca Teresa Cristina Cardoso , Goncalves Marilda Souza , Aleluia Milena Magalhães
Published: February 2022

Sickle leg ulcers (SLU) are malleoli lesions with exuberant hemolytic pathophysiology. The microRNAs are potential genetic biomarkers for several pathologies. Thereby, we aimed to assess the expression of circulating miR-199a-5p, miR-144, and miR-126 in association with hemolytic biomarkers in SLU. This cross-sectional study included 69 patients with sickle cell disease, 52 patients without SLU (SLU-) and 17 patients with active SLU or previous history (SLU+). The results demonstrated elevated expression of circulating miR-199a-5p and miR-144 in SLU+ patients while miR-126 expression was reduced. Circulating miR-199a-5p and miR-144 were associated with hemolytic biomarkers such as LDH, indirect bilirubin, AST, GGT, iron, ferritin, RBC, hemoglobin, and NOm, in addition to association with impaired clinical profile of SLU. Furthermore, in silico analyses indicated interactions of miR-199a-5p with HIF1A, Ets-1, and TGFB2 genes, which are associated with vasculopathy and reduced NO. In contrast, miR-126 was associated with an attenuating clinical profile of SLU, in addition to not characterizing hemolysis. In summary, this study demonstrates, for the first time, that hemolytic mechanism in SLU can be characterized by circulating miR-199a-5p and miR-144. The circulating miR-126 may play a protective role in SLU. Thus, these microRNAs can support to establish prognosis and therapeutic strategy in SLU.
The Autoantibodies against Tumor-Associated Antigens as Potential Blood-Based Biomarkers in Thyroid Neoplasia: Rationales, Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Belousov Pavel V.
Published: February 2022

The Autoantibodies targeting Tumor-Associated Antigens (TAA-AAbs) emerge as a result of a variety of tumor-related immunogenic stimuli and may be regarded as the eyewitnesses to the anti-tumor immune response. TAA-AAbs may be readily detected in peripheral blood to unveil the presence of a particular TAA-expressing tumor, and a fair number of TAAs eliciting the tumor-associated autoantibody response have been identified. The potential of TAA-AAbs as tumor biomarkers has been extensively studied in many human malignancies with a major influence on public health; however, tumors of the endocrine system, and, in particular, the well-differentiated follicular cell-derived thyroid neoplasms, remain understudied in this context. This review provides a detailed perspective on and legitimate rationales for the potential use of TAA-AAbs in thyroid neoplasia, with particular reference to the already established diagnostic implications of the TAA-AAbs in human cancer, to the windows for improvement and diagnostic niches in the current workup strategies in nodular thyroid disease and differentiated thyroid cancer that TAA-AAbs may successfully occupy, as well as to the proof-of-concept studies demonstrating the usefulness of TAA-AAbs in thyroid oncology, particularly for the pre-surgical discrimination between tumors of different malignant potential in the context of the indeterminate results of the fine-needle aspiration cytology.
Effect of Revascularization on Intramuscular Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Levels in Peripheral Arterial Disease
Authors: Schawe Larissa , Raude Ben , Carstens Jan Christoph , Hinterseher Irene , Hein Raphael Donatus , Omran Safwan , Berger Gilles , Hering Nina A. , Buerger Matthias , Greiner Andreas , Frese Jan Paul
Published: February 2022

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a potent driver of angiogenesis, which may help to relieve ischemia in peripheral arterial disease (PAD). We aimed to investigate the role of intramuscular VEGF in ischemic and non-ischemic skeletal muscle in PAD patients before and after surgical or endovascular revascularization and different stages of PAD. Biopsies of the gastrocnemius and vastus muscles from twenty PAD patients with stenosis or occlusion of the superficial femoral artery were obtained both during revascularization and 8 weeks postoperatively. The gastrocnemius muscle was considered ischemic, while vastus muscle biopsies served as intraindividual controls. The levels of vascular endothelial growth factor in muscle lysates were then determined by ELISA. Preoperative VEGF levels were significantly higher in ischemic muscles compared to the controls (98.07 ± 61.96 pg/mL vs. 55.50 ± 27.33 pg/mL, p = 0.004). Postoperative values decreased significantly (p = 0.010) to 54.83 ± 49.60 pg/mL in gastrocnemius biopsies. No significant change was observed in vastus muscle biopsies, with mean postoperative VEGF values found at 54.16 ± 40.66 pg/mL. Since all patients still had indications for revascularization, impairment of angiogenesis mechanisms can be assumed. More research about angiogenesis in PAD is needed with the ultimate goal to improve conservative treatment.
A Novel 2-Hit Zebrafish Model to Study Early Pathogenesis of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Kulkarni Abhishek , Ibrahim Sara , Haider Isra , Basha Amina , Montgomery Emma , Ermis Ebru , Mirmira Raghavendra G. , Anderson Ryan M.
Published: February 2022

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the most common liver diseases in adults. NAFLD progresses from benign liver fat accumulation to liver inflammation and cirrhosis, and ultimately leads to liver failure. Although several rodent models have been established for studying NAFLD, they have limitations that include cost, speed of disease development, key dissimilarities, and poor amenability to pharmacological screens. Here, we present a novel 2-hit zebrafish model to replicate aspects of NAFLD pathogenesis. We fed zebrafish larvae a high-fat diet (HFD) to drive liver fat accumulation (first hit). Next, we exacerbated liver-specific inflammation using a transgenic line (fabp10-CETI-PIC3) that induces the expression of proinflammatory cytokines following induction with doxycycline (second hit). These hits promoted fat accumulation and liver inflammation, as demonstrated by the high expression of inflammatory cytokines, macrophage infiltration, stress induction, and hepatic lipid droplet accumulation. Furthermore, zebrafish in this paradigm showed deranged glucose metabolism. To validate a small-molecule screening approach, we treated HFD-fed fish with pioglitazone, a drug shown to be beneficial for NAFLD in humans, and measured a sharp reduction in liver lipid accumulation. These results demonstrate new utility for zebrafish in modeling early NAFLD pathogenesis and demonstrate their feasibility for in vivo screening of new pharmacological interventions.
Effects of Repetitive Peripheral Magnetic Stimulation through Hand Splint Materials on Induced Movement and Corticospinal Excitability in Healthy Participants
Authors: Asao Akihiko , Nomura Tomonori , Shibuya Kenichi
Published: February 2022

Repetitive peripheral magnetic stimulation (rPMS) is a non-invasive neuromodulation technique. Magnetic fields induced by rPMS pass through almost all materials, and it has clinical applications for neurorehabilitation. However, the effects of rPMS through clothing and orthosis on induced movement and corticospinal excitability remain unclear. The aim of this study was to determine whether rPMS induces movement and enhances corticospinal excitability through hand splint materials. rPMS was applied directly to the skin (L0) and through one (L1) or two (L2) layers of splint material in 14 healthy participants at 25-Hz, 2-s train per 6 s for a total of 20 min. rPMS was delivered to the forearm with the stimulus intensity set to 1.5-times the train intensity-induced muscle contractions under the L0 condition. We recorded induced wrist movements during rPMS and motor-evoked potentials of the extensor carpi radialis pre- and post-application. The results showed that rPMS induced wrist movements in L0 and L1, and it facilitated corticospinal excitability in L0 but not in L1 and L2. This suggests that rPMS can make electromagnetic induction on periphery even when applied over clothing and orthosis and demonstrates the potential clinical applications of this technique for neurorehabilitation.
Relationship between Mental Disorders and Optimism in a Community-Based Sample of Adults
Authors: Öcal Ece Elif , Demirtaş Zeynep , Atalay Burcu Işıktekin , Önsüz Muhammed Fatih , Işıklı Burhanettin , Metintaş Selma , Yenilmez Çınar
Published: February 2022

Optimism should be included in efforts to protect mental health, as it can provide cognitive resources. Optimism also reduces the negative effects of stressful life events associated with the occurrence and recurrence of mental disorders. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between mental disorders and optimism in a community-based sample of adults. The study was conducted in three semi-rural clusters determined via random sampling. After adjustment in accordance with the independent variables, the relationship between each psychiatric disorder and Life Orientation Test (LOT) was calculated using logistic models. Overall, 24.5% of participants were categorized into at least one mental disorder group, with 20.8%, 3.5%, and 0.3% having one, two, or three mental disorders, respectively. The median LOT score was lower in patients diagnosed from the Primary Care Evaluation of Mental Disorders modules, except for the somatoform disorder module. Maintaining an optimistic view reduced the risk of mood disorders by 0.86 (OR; 95% CI, 0.81–0.91), anxiety disorders by 0.89 (0.83–0.97), and probable alcohol abuse by 0.83 (0.74–0.93) times after adjustment. The role of an optimistic view in coping with mental problems should be investigated in detail.
Experimental Investigation on Cement Mortar Bricks Manufactured with Fennel Wastes
Authors: Formisano Antonio , Davino Antonio
Published: February 2022

Current practices supporting sustainable building design aim at reducing the expenditure of natural resources, such as raw materials, energy and water, in the production of construction supplies. In the current paper water is replaced by fennel centrifugate (FC) for the realization of cement mortar bricks. After having identified the most suitable cementitious pre-mixed over three potential candidates, the mechanical and physical characteristics of the FC bricks are compared to cement mortar bricks, prepared with regular water, by means of bending, compression at ordinary and high temperatures, imbibition and acoustic tests. From compared results, it is noticed that FC bricks have the same imbibition property, but tensile and compression (ordinary and high temperatures) resistances have about 20% less than the control specimen ones. The acoustic tests revealed a better response of FC bricks to the high frequencies greater than 1600 Hz. However, fennel fibres do not provide a manifest advantage, likely due to the small size of the centrifuged fragments that are not able to enhance the product tensile resistance.
The Development of a BIM-Based Interoperable Toolkit for Efficient Renovation in Buildings: From BIM to Digital Twin
Authors: Daniotti Bruno , Masera Gabriele , Bolognesi Cecilia Maria , Lupica Spagnolo Sonia , Pavan Alberto , Iannaccone Giuliana , Signorini Martina , Ciuffreda Simone , Mirarchi Claudio , Lucky Meherun , Cucuzza Marco
Published: February 2022

Nowadays, buildings renovation is a subject of special interest since the building and construction sector is the main body responsible for energy consumption and emissions. Hence, it is necessary to concentrate on refurbishment to achieve Europe’s climate neutrality by 2050 according to European Agenda goals. The BIM4EEB Project, a BIM-based fast toolkit for the efficient renovation of residential buildings, directs the attention toward developing an exhaustive toolkit based on Building Information Modeling (BIM) to be adopted in the renovation of existing residential buildings, to make the flow of information efficient, decreasing intervention working time while improving building performances, quality, and comfort for inhabitants. BIM4EEB is developing a BIM management system connected to an operational and multifunctional toolkit for various architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) stakeholders, integrating a set of tools for improving BIM adoption in renovation environments based on an interoperable flow of information. This paper presents the Horizon2020 Project and the framework used to develop the toolkit. In addition, the first outcomes of the toolkit development are outlined. The validation procedure in real environments has started to demonstrate the efficacy and applicability of the methodology and tools. Although the project is still in progress, benefits connected to the framework and the BIM-based toolkit result in an enhanced building renovation process.
The Genius loci Issue in the Revalorization of Post-Military Complexes: Selected Case Studies in Legnica (Poland)
Authors: Rudnicka-Bogusz Marta
Published: February 2022

Barracks built at the turn of the 20th century and in the 1930s in garrison towns in the Western Borderlands of Poland serve as the focal point of their cultural landscape. Traditions, which grew around these structures during three independent periods (pre-war German times, the totalitarian post-war period and the contemporary free-market economy), form a continuous narrative of how the military contributed to development and helped shape the sense of local identity. Simultaneously, historic barracks complexes are a dissonant heritage due to the complicated history of these lands, known as the Recovered Territories, which includes a change in nationality, exchange of population and the Iron Curtain. After the army was restructured, many of these barracks were decommissioned and repurposed. Some of the adaptations obscured the barracks’ typological differentiators, which diminished their value as archives of cultural and social history. The study described in this paper conducted by the author helped to identify the features that differentiate military installations from other historic architecture and diagnose which of these features must be preserved in order to maintain the genius loci of the barracks complexes, i.e., their scholastic potential and sentimental value. Based on the acquired knowledge, this paper analyzed two adaptations of barracks in Legnica, one from each period of intensified militarism. This analysis resulted in the formulation of recommendations for future restorations of other barracks that still remain in their original form.
Recent Progress in Two-Dimensional Materials for Electrocatalytic CO2 Reduction
Authors: Lu Song , Lou Fengliu , Yu Zhixin
Published: February 2022

Electrocatalytic CO2 reduction (ECR) is an attractive approach to convert atmospheric CO2 to value-added chemicals and fuels. However, this process is still hindered by sluggish CO2 reaction kinetics and the lack of efficient electrocatalysts. Therefore, new strategies for electrocatalyst design should be developed to solve these problems. Two-dimensional (2D) materials possess great potential in ECR because of their unique electronic and structural properties, excellent electrical conductivity, high atomic utilization and high specific surface area. In this review, we summarize the recent progress on 2D electrocatalysts applied in ECR. We first give a brief description of ECR fundamentals and then discuss in detail the development of different types of 2D electrocatalysts for ECR, including metal, graphene-based materials, transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), metal oxide nanosheets and 2D materials incorporated with single atoms as single-atom catalysts (SACs). Metals, such as Ag, Cu, Au, Pt and Pd, graphene-based materials, metal-doped nitric carbide, TMDs and MOFs can mostly only produce CO with a Faradic efficiencies (FE) of 80~90%. Particularly, SACs can exhibit FEs of CO higher than 90%. Metal oxides and graphene-based materials can produce HCOOH, but the FEs are generally lower than that of CO. Only Cu-based materials can produce high carbon products such as C2H4 but they have low product selectivity. It was proposed that the design and synthesis of novel 2D materials for ECR should be based on thorough understanding of the reaction mechanism through combined theoretical prediction with experimental study, especially in situ characterization techniques. The gap between laboratory synthesis and large-scale production of 2D materials also needs to be closed for commercial applications.
Identification of Dysregulated Expression of G Protein Coupled Receptors in Endocrine Tumors by Bioinformatics Analysis: Potential Drug Targets?
Authors: Suteau Valentine , Munier Mathilde , Ben Boubaker Rym , Wery Méline , Henrion Daniel , Rodien Patrice , Briet Claire
Published: February 2022

Background: Many studies link G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) to cancer. Some endocrine tumors are unresponsive to standard treatment and/or require long-term and poorly tolerated treatment. This study explored, by bioinformatics analysis, the tumoral profiling of the GPCR transcriptome to identify potential targets in these tumors aiming at drug repurposing. Methods: We explored the GPCR differentially expressed genes (DEGs) from public datasets (Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA)). The GEO datasets were available for two medullary thyroid cancers (MTCs), eighty-seven pheochromocytomas (PHEOs), sixty-one paragangliomas (PGLs), forty-seven pituitary adenomas and one-hundred-fifty adrenocortical cancers (ACCs). The TCGA dataset covered 92 ACCs. We identified GPCRs targeted by approved drugs from pharmacological databases (ChEMBL and DrugBank). Results: The profiling of dysregulated GPCRs was tumor specific. In MTC, we found 14 GPCR DEGs, including an upregulation of the dopamine receptor (DRD2) and adenosine receptor (ADORA2B), which were the target of many drugs. In PGL, seven GPCR genes were downregulated, including vasopressin receptor (AVPR1A) and PTH receptor (PTH1R), which were targeted by approved drugs. In ACC, PTH1R was also downregulated in both the GEO and TCGA datasets and was the target of osteoporosis drugs. Conclusions: We highlight specific GPCR signatures across the major endocrine tumors. These data could help to identify new opportunities for drug repurposing.
Interaction of Mitochondrial Calcium and ROS in Neurodegeneration
Authors: Baev Artyom Y. , Vinokurov Andrey Y. , Novikova Irina N. , Dremin Viktor V. , Potapova Elena V. , Abramov Andrey Y.
Published: February 2022

Neurodegenerative disorders are currently incurable devastating diseases which are characterized by the slow and progressive loss of neurons in specific brain regions. Progress in the investigation of the mechanisms of these disorders helped to identify a number of genes associated with familial forms of these diseases and a number of toxins and risk factors which trigger sporadic and toxic forms of these diseases. Recently, some similarities in the mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases were identified, including the involvement of mitochondria, oxidative stress, and the abnormality of Ca2+ signaling in neurons and astrocytes. Thus, mitochondria produce reactive oxygen species during metabolism which play a further role in redox signaling, but this may also act as an additional trigger for abnormal mitochondrial calcium handling, resulting in mitochondrial calcium overload. Combinations of these factors can be the trigger of neuronal cell death in some pathologies. Here, we review the latest literature on the crosstalk of reactive oxygen species and Ca2+ in brain mitochondria in physiology and beyond, considering how changes in mitochondrial metabolism or redox signaling can convert this interaction into a pathological event.
Comparison between Digital Casts and Cone Beam Computed Tomography for Measuring Maxillary Transverse Dimensions in Patients with Impacted Canines
Authors: Martinez Madero Elena , García Montarelo Jaime , Aguayo Grace Stefany , Martin Conchita
Published: February 2022

Cone beam computed tomography (CBTCT) scans (n = 45) and digital dental casts (n = 45) were both used to measure the maxillary transverse dimensions in patients with impacted maxillary canines. The objectives were to explore the associations of these dimensions with the impaction and patient characteristics, and to compare the measurements between these techniques. The maxillary width was measured on scans and casts at the Walaridge, and the intermolar width and interpremolar width levels were measured at the first and second premolars (measured from the buccal grooves and the palatal cuspids, and the palatal and lingual amelocemental junctions). Two examiners independently compared the measurements between the control quadrants (without impaction) and the case quadrants (with impaction) in patients with unilateral impactions, and between the unilateral and bilateral impaction groups. The interclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was calculated to assess the interexaminer reliability and paired or independent Student’s t-tests and ANOVAs were used for comparisons. The ICCs were 0.887 and 0.919, globally, for the measurements on the CBCT scans and casts, respectively, which indicates the excellent interexaminer reliability. On the CBCT scans, statistically significant differences were found between the case and control quadrants in the transverse measurements at the lingual level on the upper first molars, and at the WALA ridge level on the upper second premolars (p < 0.05) in the unilateral impaction group. Significant differences were found between the case quadrants in the unilateral versus the bilateral groups at the WALA ridge on the second premolars in casts (p < 0.05), and at the lingual point on the first molars on the CBCT scans (p < 0.05). No statistically significant differences in the transverse measurements were observed between the impacted buccal and palatal canines on either the casts or CBCT scans. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to compare the transverse measurements between digital models and CBCT scans.
The Engineering Properties and Microscopic Characteristics of High-Liquid-Limit Soil Improved with Lignin
Authors: Kong Xianghui , Wang Gaoqiang , Liang Yunpeng , Zhang Zhibin , Cui Shuai
Published: February 2022

To improve the engineering performance of high-liquid-limit soil, lignin, a by-product of the papermaking industry, was used. First, the influence of lignin content and curing age on the physicochemical and mechanical properties of the improved soil was determined by carrying out pH, Atterberg limits, heavy compaction, unconfined compressive strength (UCS), California bearing ratio (CBR), and resilience modulus tests. Secondly, microscopic images obtained by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were analyzed. The characteristic and evolution rules of the microstructure were expounded for the improved soil. Finally, combining SEM with energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis, the mechanism of lignin improvement on high-liquid-limit clay is discussed from the perspective of molecular structure. The results showed that the pH value of lignin-improved soil was much lower than that of quicklime-improved soil, which were 7.0 and 11.7, respectively. When the lignin content was 3%, the dry density and mechanical indexes (UCS, CBR, and resilience modulus) of the improved soil all showed the maximum values. From the perspective of microstructure, the connection between soil particles was strengthened through the wrapping and filling of the flocculent cementing materials produced by lignin. The improvement mechanism of lignin on soil was the combined result of ion exchange, hydrogen bonding, covalent bonding, and electrostatic attraction.
SARS-CoV-2 Viral RNA Is Detected in the Bone Marrow in Post-Mortem Samples Using RT-LAMP
Authors: Jurek Tomasz , Rorat Marta , Szleszkowski Łukasz , Tokarski Miron , Pielka Izabela , Małodobra-Mazur Małgorzata
Published: February 2022

Since the emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in late 2019, viral RNA has been detected in several different human tissues and organs. This study reports the detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in the bone marrow. Post-mortem samples were taken in a sterile manner during two forensic autopsies from the nasopharyngeal region, vitreous humor, cerebrospinal fluid, and bone marrow. SARS-CoV-2 was subsequently diagnosed via Genomtec® SARS-CoV-2 EvaGreen® RT-LAMP CE-IVD Duo Kit. In both postmortem patients, SARS-CoV-2 RNA was detected in bone marrow samples. However, both the vitreous humor and cerebrospinal fluid from the same patients gave negative results using the same test system. The evidence of viral RNA in the bone marrow, along with other reports supports the thesis that SARS-CoV-2 infections are systemic in nature, the consequences of which would profoundly influence both the testing and survival of patients.
Pelvic Sidewall Anatomy in Gynecologic Oncology—New Insights into a Potential Avascular Space
Authors: Kostov Stoyan , Selçuk Ilker , Watrowski Rafał , Kornovski Yavor , Yalçın Hakan , Slavchev Stanislav , Ivanova Yonka , Dzhenkov Deyan , Yordanov Angel
Published: February 2022

The surgical treatment of gynecological malignancies is, except for tumors diagnosed at the earliest stages and patients’ desire for fertility preservation, not limited to only the affected organ. In cases of metastatic iliac lymph nodes, gynecological tumors or recurrences located near the pelvic sidewall, oncogynecologists should dissect tissues in that region. Moreover, surgery of deep infiltrating endometriosis, e.g., within the sacral plexus, or oncological procedures, such as a laterally extended endoplevic resection or a laterally extended parametrectomy, often require a dissection of the pelvic sidewall. Dissection should be meticulous, and detailed knowledge of anatomy is mandatory. There are many controversies among authors regarding the terminology in the pelvic sidewall. In particular, several imprecise or confusing definitions exist in regard to the region located medially to the psoas major muscle. Therefore, after discussing the anatomy of the pelvic sidewall and the commonly used terminology, we define a new term and boundaries of a potential avascular space, the medial psoas space. Contrary to the variety of earlier definitions, the proposed boundaries relate to a truly avascular space and could help surgeons to avoid complications resulting from misleading anatomical descriptions. Additionally, describing the clear boundaries of and possible anatomical variations in the medial psoas space may urge oncogynecologists to consider different approaches during surgery. The purpose of the present study is to describe the anatomy of the pelvic sidewall and the applications of the medial psoas space in gynecologic oncology.
Multimethod Assessment of the Cyclic Fatigue Strength of ProGlider, Edge Glide Path and R-Pilot Endodontic Instruments
Authors: Martins Jorge N. R. , Marques Duarte , Vasconcelos Isabel , Arantes-Oliveira Sofia , Caramês João , Braz Fernandes Francisco Manuel
Published: February 2022

Background: The aim of this study was to comprehensively evaluate the cyclic fatigue strength of ProGlider, Edge Glide Path, and R-Pilot instruments. Methods: Sixty-three instruments were submitted to a multimethod evaluation. Their design was analyzed by stereomicroscopy and scanning electron microscopy, including the number of blades, helical angle means, cross-sectional design, surface finishing, and symmetry. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy was used determine the nickel/titanium elements ratio, and differential scanning calorimetry determined the instruments’ phase transformation temperatures. The cyclic fatigue tests were conducted in an artificial canal with a 6 mm radius and 86 degrees of curvature. The Mood’s median test and one-way ANOVA were used to determine differences, with the significance level set at 0.05. Results: The ProGlider presented the highest number of blades (n = 21), while R-Pilot had the highest helical angles (26.4°). Differences were noted in the instruments’ cross-sections and surface finishing. The ProGlider and R-Pilot showed some similarities regarding the phase transformation temperatures but differed from the Edge Glide Path. All alloys showed an almost equiatomic nickel/titanium ratio. The R-Pilot instruments showed a significantly higher (p < 0.05) time to fracture than both the other files. Conclusion: Reciprocating R-Pilot instruments showed a higher cyclic fatigue time to fracture than the ProGlider and Edge Glide Path rotary files.
Low-Dimensional Layered Light-Sensitive Memristive Structures for Energy-Efficient Machine Vision
Authors: Panin Gennady N.
Published: February 2022

Layered two-dimensional (2D) and quasi-zero-dimensional (0D) materials effectively absorb radiation in the wide ultraviolet, visible, infrared, and terahertz ranges. Photomemristive structures made of such low-dimensional materials are of great interest for creating optoelectronic platforms for energy-efficient storage and processing of data and optical signals in real time. Here, photosensor and memristor structures based on graphene, graphene oxide, bismuth oxyselenide, and transition metal dichalcogenides are reviewed from the point of view of application in broadband image recognition in artificial intelligence systems for autonomous unmanned vehicles, as well as the compatibility of the formation of layered neuromorphic structures with CMOS technology.
Spectare: Re-Designing a Stereoscope for a Cultural Heritage XR Experience
Authors: Taipina Daniel , Cardoso Jorge C. S.
Published: February 2022

Stereoscopic photography was one of the main forms of visual communication in the second half of the 19th century. The experience of viewing stereoscopic photographs using stereoscopes is described as evoking memories of the past, feelings of presence in the depicted scenes, but also fun and magical experiences. The fact that using these devices generates these impactful experiences is relevant for Cultural Heritage (CH) where we want visitors to have memorable experiences. Since classic stereoscopes are similar to contemporary smartphone-based Virtual Reality (VR) viewers, we questioned how the original viewing experience could be re-imagined to take advantage of current technologies. We have designed a new smartphone-based VR device—Spectare—targeted towards experiencing CH content (2D or 360° photos or videos, soundscapes, or other immersive content), while still maintaining a user experience close to the original. In this paper, we describe the design process and operation of the Spectare device. We also report on an usability evaluation with 20 participants and on the field testing where we applied the device to the visualization of CH content resulting from a digital reconstruction of the monastery of Santa Cruz in Coimbra, Portugal. The evaluations uncovered issues with the smartphone support piece of the device, but generally its usage was classified with a high usability score. Participants also classified the device as innovative, creative, impressive, fun.
Performance Analysis of Massive MIMO-OFDM System Incorporated with Various Transforms for Image Communication in 5G Systems
Authors: Kansal Lavish , Berra Salah , Mounir Mohamed , Miglani Rajan , Dinis Rui , Rabie Khaled
Published: February 2022

Modern-day applications of fifth-generation (5G) and sixth-generation (6G) systems require fast, efficient, and robust transmission of multimedia information over wireless communication medium for both mobile and fixed users. The hybrid amalgamation of massive multiple input multiple output (mMIMO) and orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) proves to be an impressive methodology for fulfilling the needs of 5G and 6G users. In this paper, the performance of the hybrid combination of massive MIMO and OFDM schemes augmented with fast Fourier transform (FFT), fractional Fourier transform (FrFT) or discrete wavelet transform (DWT) is evaluated to study their potential for reliable image communication. The analysis is carried over the Rayleigh fading channels and M-ary phase-shift keying (M-PSK) modulation schemes. The parameters used in our analysis to assess the outcome of proposed versions of OFDM-mMIMO include signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) vs. peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) and SNR vs. structural similarity index measure (SSIM) at the receiver. Our results indicate that massive MIMO systems incorporating FrFT and DWT can lead to higher PSNR and SSIM values for a given SNR and number of users, when compared with in contrast to FFT-based massive MIMO-OFDM systems under the same conditions.